A group that claims to be “Bible-believing” can still be a cult if you examine its teachings. A cult is “a religious group that derives from a parent religion (such as Christianity) but departs from that parent religion by denying some of its essential doctrines” (Dr. Ron Rhodes). However, there are also indicators of a cult that appear in its practices—especially in how members relate to one another and to people outside their group. According to Dr. Rhodes, a respected authority on the subject, here are some of the most common traits of a cult:
1. AUTHORITARIANISM
The words of their authority figure—often viewed as a “prophet,” “Messenger from God,” or even the “son of God”—are treated as ultimate and final. A cult is easy to spot when members show unquestionable loyalty to their founder or leader.
2. ISOLATIONISM
Extreme cults sometimes create rigid boundaries. They may require members to cut ties with family and friends who are not part of the group. The cult community becomes a “substitute family or circle of friends,” and members are expected to devote increasing amounts of time and effort to the group.
3. EXCLUSIVISM
Cults often believe they alone possess God’s truth and the only path to salvation. Outsiders are quickly labeled unbiblical and wrong. They see themselves as the only true believers—and therefore the only people who are saved.
4. THREATS OF SATANIC DECEPTION
Some cults warn their members that Satan may use friends or family to tempt them to leave the group. They may also discourage reading books or listening to teachings that differ from their own views, claiming such exposure could lead members astray.
5. SHUNNING
Even minor infractions—such as questioning a leader’s opinion—can result in social avoidance or distancing. Members are instructed to avoid the “guilty” person, who often becomes the target of gossip.
6. DISFELLOWSHIPPING
Cults frequently expel or “disfellowship” anyone who questions or resists their beliefs and instructions. This threat is used to keep members obedient. Because members have been convinced that only the group is correct and will be saved, they fear being cast out.
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Notably, these traits reveal that cults operate through fear rather than truth and love. A church, sect, or denomination may have biblical teachings but still behave in cult-like ways. Truth in belief and love in practice must never be separated. As Scripture reminds us: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (James 1:27). Stay Curious.
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