What is a cult?

The dictionary defines the word “cult” in a broad sense; as a group of people centered around a religious belief, worship and ceremonies. But words change over time to mean different things. In this case, the word has become a negative label. Cults are groups with uniform sets of doctrines and rigidly defined organizational structures. Their false teachings deviate from Essential Christian Doctrine.

Sociologically

A cult may be defined sociologically. From this perspective, a cult is a religious or semi-religious sect whose followers are controlled by strong leadership in virtually every dimension of their lives. Devotees characteristically display a displaced loyalty for the guru and the group and are galvanized together through physical and/or psychological intimidation tactics. This kind of cultist more often than not displays a “we/they” siege mentality and has been cut off from all former associations including their immediate families.

Theologically

A cult may be defined theologically. In this sense a cult can be a pseudo-Christian organization that claims to be Christian but compromises, confuses, contradicts or completely rejects essential Christian doctrine. Such cults operate under the guise of Christianity but deviate from the orthodox teachings of the historic Christian faith as codified in the ancient ecumenical creeds. Typically, devotees become masters at taking texts out of context to develop pretexts for their theological perversions.

Video - Hank Hanegraaff discussing the Heaven's Gate cult on Larry King Live in 1997 - Hank Hanegraaff 

Cited Sources: The Complete Bible Answer Book by Hank Hanegraaff