OTHER QUESTIONABLE RELIGIONS

What is Hinduism? - Part 1

 

Hinduism is the world's third largest religion. The origin of Hinduism can be traced back to the Indus valley civilization around 4000 to 2200 B.C. Much of its history is uncertain. However, it is clear that around 4,000 years ago a developed group of people lived in Northwest India. The major influences of Hinduism occurred when nomadic, Indo-European tribes invaded Northern India (around 1500 B.C.) from Russia and Central Asia. They brought the religion of Vedism (an ancient religion that included chanting and sacrifices). Their beliefs mixed with the local Indian native beliefs. Religious principles mixed, including the Hindu beliefs of reincarnation, multiple gods (polytheism), and the spiritual unity of humanity (monism or "one ultimate reality").

Over time, this religious mix of ideas grew through written scriptures known as the Vedas. Originally passed down orally, these ideas were written down between 1400 and 400 B.C. The Hindu scriptures are massive, and consist of:

 

1) The Veda: The oldest of the Hindu scriptures is the Veda, which literally means "wisdom" or "knowledge." The Vedas contain hymns, prayers, and ritual texts. The four Vedas are the Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajuraveda, and the Artharvaveda.

2) The Upanishads: The Upanishads are a collection of writings composed between 800-600 B.C. that marked a change to mystical ideas about humanity and the universe, particularly noticeable in the idea of the Brahman and the atman (the self or soul). The Upanishads came to have a great influence on Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

3) The Ramayana: The Ramayana is one of the two major epic tales of India, the other being the Mahabharata. A sage-poet named Valmiki wrote the Ramayana that consists of 24,000 couplets describing the life of Rama, a righteous king who was supposedly an incarnation of the God Vishnu.

4) The Mahabharata: The Mahabharata is the second epic. It is the story describing the deeds of the Aryan clans. It consists of some 100,000 verses composed over an 800-year period beginning about 400 B.C. Contained within this work is a great classic, the Bhagavad Gita, or the "Song of the Blessed Lord."

5) The Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita is the most sacred of all Hindu books and is also the best known and the most read of all Indian works in the entire world. This is despite the fact it was added late to the Mahabharata sometime in the first century A.D. The story in the Bhagavad Gita describes man's duty, which, if carried out, will bring nothing but sorrow. This story has had great impact on Hindu belief in its endorsement of bhakti, or devotion to a particular god, as a means of salvation.

 

            We will take a further look into Hinduism in the next posting. Until then, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.compellingtruth.org

OTHER QUESTIONABLE RELIGIONS

What do Seventh-day Adventists Believe?

 

Here are the main tenets of the 7^th Day Adventists, as listed on the website Learning Religions:

 

Baptism - Baptism requires repentance and a confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It symbolizes forgiveness of sins and reception of the Holy Spirit. Adventists baptize by immersion.

Bible - Adventists see Scripture as divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit, the "infallible revelation" of God's will. The Bible contains the knowledge necessary for salvation.

Communion - The Adventist communion service includes foot washing as a symbol of humility, ongoing inner cleansing, and service to others. The Lord's Supper is open to all Christian believers.

Death - Unlike most other Christian denominations, Adventists hold that the dead do not go directly to heaven or hell but enter a period of "soul sleep," in which they are unconscious until their resurrection and final judgment.

Diet - As "temples of the Holy Spirit," Seventh-day Adventists are encouraged to eat the healthiest diet possible, and many members are vegetarians. They are also prohibited from drinking alcohol, using tobacco, or taking illegal drugs.

Equality - There is no racial discrimination in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Women cannot be ordained as pastors, although the debate continues in some circles. Homosexual behavior is condemned as sin.

Heaven / Hell - At the end of the Millennium, the thousand-year reign of Christ with his saints in heaven between the first and second resurrections, Christ and the Holy City will descend from heaven to earth. The redeemed will live eternally on the New Earth, where God will dwell with his people. The condemned will be consumed by fire and annihilated.

Investigative Judgment - Beginning in 1844, a date originally named by an early Adventist as the Second Coming of Christ, Jesus began a process of judging which people will be saved and which will be destroyed. Adventists believe all departed souls are sleeping until that time of final judgment.

Jesus Christ - The eternal Son of God, Jesus Christ became man and was sacrificed on the cross in payment for sin, was raised from the dead and ascended into heaven. Those who accept the atoning death of Christ are assured eternal life.

Prophecy - Prophecy is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Seventh-day Adventists consider Ellen G. White (1827-1915), one of the church's founders, to be a prophetess. Her extensive writings are studied for guidance and instruction.

Sabbath - Seventh-day Adventist beliefs include worship on Saturday, in accordance with the Jewish custom of keeping the seventh day holy, based on the Fourth Commandment. They believe that the later Christian custom of moving the Sabbath to Sunday, to celebrate the day of Christ's resurrection, is unbiblical.

Trinity - Adventists believe in one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While God is beyond human understanding, He has revealed Himself through Scripture and His Son, Jesus Christ.

 

            Upon looking over the main beliefs of this denomination, we find that they agree with the Christian theological viewpoint on most topics. The main tenets of Christendom are being followed. There are two groups of the 7^th Day Adventist Church; one being considered Traditional & the other considered Evangelical. The Traditional seems to be more legalistic, while the Evangelicals look to line up pretty much with regular Evangelicals. There are a couple items that seem a little “different” should we say. Those “different” thoughts are in red above. They are referred to by some as “heterodox” or “unorthodox” beliefs; not in agreement with mainstream Christian doctrine. Having said that I don’t see these discrepancies as cultic. Neither does a large portion of Christendom.

            Ellen G White, the founder of the denomination, was considered by its’ constituents to be a prophetess. She was considered to have the proper interpretation of Scripture; but they consider the Bible to be inerrant & superior to White’s writings. In her lifetime (1827-1915) she wrote 180 books. I’ve seen the warning that her writings should be compared to actual scripture from the Bible to verify their validity. Her book, The Great Controversy, one of her first, chronicles the history of sin from beginning to end. Her writings were considered supplemental to the Bible. A means of helping the members of the church understand the scriptures. 

The general consensus of the majority of theologians is that while the 7^th Day Adventists are not a full-fledged cult, they are neither an authorized Christian denomination. The “experts” seem to agree that they should be considered a “sect” ^[1] of the Evangelical Christian Church, yet not an official denomination because of the few doctrinal differences. 

The latest statistics I found regarding the Traditional vs Evangelical churches of this “sect” shows that 80% of the people consider themselves to be part of the Evangelical branch of the Adventist church, while only 20% consider themselves to be part of the Traditional branch. The Evangelical branch is very close to the Protestant set of beliefs. There is of course always the possibility, as there is with any religious group, that an individual church body could stray from the main tenets of Christendom. However, this doesn’t make the entire overall group cultic. Perhaps just a church or two, but that all depends on the individual churches beliefs.

 

Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,                                                                                                                   RL Keller                                                                                                                                Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.learningreligions.com

^[1] (Christian Churches, other) a subdivision of a larger religious group (esp the Christian Church as a whole) the members of which have to some extent diverged from the rest by developing deviating beliefs, practices, etc. [sect. (n.d.) Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014. (1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014).]

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What is the United Pentecostal Church? Part 2

While many false teachings have arisen out of the Pentecostal movement, Oneness Pentecostalism is certainly one of the most deceptive and heretical. Rather than embrace the triune nature of God as revealed in Scripture, Oneness Pentecostals, such as the United Pentecostal Church, create for themselves a God they can “understand” and in doing so end up with another gospel and a heretical concept of God. They hold to a form of modalism that, while correctly asserting the biblical truth that there is only one true God (Deuteronomy 6:4), fails to recognize the plurality of the Godhead (Genesis 1:26; Matthew 28:19–20; Mark 1:9–11; John 1:1; John 8:17–18; John 14:16: John 15:26; John 16:13–15: 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2; Revelation 1:4–6).

Modalism is basically the teaching that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are simply different ways God manifests or reveals Himself to humanity. It fails to recognize the distinctions that clearly exist between God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, as well as their eternal relationship that Scripture reveals to us. Contrary to John 1:1, Oneness doctrine denies the pre-existence of Jesus Christ despite the fact that this verse clearly teaches that Jesus is God and that He was with God and was God from the beginning. They acknowledge that Christ is God but ignore the part of this verse that clearly establishes the pre-existence of Christ and makes a clear distinction between Christ and the Father as do many other verses of Scripture.

Their false view of God’s nature then leads them to misunderstand what it means to be “baptized in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38). The result is that they make water baptism “in the name of Jesus” a requirement of salvation and thus teach baptismal regeneration. They also add to that troublesome teaching that one must be baptized a specific way using a specific formula or wording in order to be saved. By adding to the gospel these requirements, as well as the false teaching that speaking in tongues is the evidence that one is saved, they end up with a convoluted gospel full of error and based on a misunderstanding of what Scripture really teaches.

The United Pentecostal Church recognizes that its teachings are not in line with most Christian denominations. We know that because they state on their website that “in our day, the Apostolic Pentecostal movement is distinctive for its teaching of the Oneness of God, the New Testament plan of salvation, and aspects of practical holiness.” In other words, like other cults the leaders of this movement are fully aware that what they teach is not in line with what is normally referred to as orthodox or biblical Christian doctrine.

Still another troubling teaching of the United Pentecostal Church is their concept of holiness and the legalistic standards they impose on people. For example, their view of holiness means that women cannot wear jewelry or make-up, that women must let their hair grow long, and that men must have their hair “noticeably short.” Also school students are forbidden from participating in shows, dances, dance classes, and theatre—and even prohibited from wearing gymnasium clothes. While Christians are called to be holy, the United Pentecostal Church’s definition of what is holy, like its other erroneous teaching comes from a misunderstanding of the basic principles of biblical hermeneutics.

The UPC’s statement of faith makes it clear that there are areas where their beliefs are acceptable and orthodox in that they do agree with the teaching of Scriptures. However, they go astray in very fundamental and essential areas. They essentially deny justification by faith. They add baptism and speaking in tongues as requirements for salvation. For baptism to be effective it must be done using the phrase “In the name of Jesus” and must be administered by an ordained Oneness Pentecostal minister. This essentially means that only those who embrace Oneness doctrines and practices will go to heaven, again another typical teaching of this type of “Christian” cult.

Like most cults, the United Pentecostal Church believes they are restoring biblical doctrine and biblical teaching that had been lost due to the corruption of the church throughout the centuries. Rather than recognizing that God in His sovereignty has preserved the true “apostolic doctrine” throughout the history of the church, they believe they are restoring biblical truths. The fact is all they are doing is reviving the ancient heresy of modalism that has been rejected by Christians every time another “new” group of false teachers begins to proclaim it.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.gotquestions.org

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What is the United Pentecostal Church? Part 1

 

The United Pentecostal Church is a Oneness Pentecostal denomination that was formed in 1945 when the Pentecostal Church Incorporated and the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ merged. Their website says that they “grew from 521 churches in 1945” to “4,243 churches and daughter works in 2010.” The United Pentecostal Church claims to be “among the fastest growing church organizations since it was formed in 1945.” Because United Pentecostal Churches are normally congregational in government, there can be some differences among individual churches. As a self-governing church body, each congregation elects its own pastors and leaders. The denomination’s headquarters is in Hazelwood, Missouri.

The roots of the United Pentecostal Church and what is known as “Oneness Pentecostalism” can be traced back to the early days of the Pentecostal Movement, which began in the early 1900s in Topeka, Kansas, based on the teachings of Charles Parham. In 1906 the Pentecostal Movement gained popularity during the Azuza Street Revival led by William Seymour. While it was rejected by mainline Christian denominations, the movement continued to grow, and its followers began to form their own Pentecostal organizations or denominations. One of the first was the Assemblies of God, which was formed around 1914.

The teaching that became the basis for Oneness Pentecostalism can be traced back to a Pentecostal camp meeting held in Arroyo Seco, California, either in late 1913 or early 1914. While at the meeting, a Pentecostal pastor named John Scheppe had what he believed was a divine revelation from God. As he meditated that night, he believed God revealed to him that baptism must be done in the “name of Jesus only” and not in the name of “the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Like most cult leaders, his revelation and “new doctrine” did not come as the result of the careful study of Scripture but instead was based on a subjective revelation he believed to be from God. Soon after, several other Assembly of God pastors began teaching this “new revelation” that would become the basis for Oneness Pentecostalism and “Jesus name only baptism.”

As the new “movement” gained followers, it caused a division in the newly formed Assembly of God organization. Recognizing the unbiblical nature of this teaching, the Assemblies of God rejected this unbiblical doctrine and affirmed the biblical doctrine of the Trinity at its Fourth General Council in October 1916. This led to the Assembly of God banning approximately 150 pastors from the denomination, those who had been teaching this unbiblical doctrine. A few months later several Oneness Pentecostal pastors met in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and started their own organization known as the General Assembly of the Apostolic Assemblies. That was the beginning of the Oneness Pentecostal movement and eventually in 1945 two of the many Oneness Pentecostal organizations merged to form the United Pentecostal Church.

Often referred to as “Oneness Pentecostals” because of their denial of the triune nature of God, the denomination was formed around a heretical teaching known as ‘modalism’. Because they deny the true nature of God as revealed in Scripture and embrace other unbiblical teachings, this group is best classified as a cult rather than a true Christian denomination. Like other cults such as Mormonism and Jehovah Witnesses, this form of extreme Pentecostalism denies the true nature of God and in reality preaches a different gospel than true biblical Christianity.

Claiming to teach “the apostles’ doctrine,” the teaching and doctrine of the United Pentecostal Church is based on poor exegesis of Scripture and the misreading and misinterpretation of certain Bible passages. This forms the basis for their heretical teaching on the nature of God and the doctrine of salvation. The heresies taught by this group include the denial of the triune nature of God as revealed in Scripture, as well as the teaching that one must be “baptized in Jesus’ name” to be saved and that true salvation is evidenced by speaking in tongues. These teachings come from a long history of misreading Scripture.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.gotquestions.org

 

 

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What is the Unification Church?

 

The Unification Church is a cult founded by Rev. Sun Myung Moon (1920–2012), who started it in Seoul, Korea, in 1954. The official name of the Unification Church is the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (founded as the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity); it is currently led by Hak Ja Han, Moon’s widow.

Unificationism immediately became controversial, as Moon believed that the Bible could not be understood without the aid of his book Divine Teaching, which he claimed was divinely inspired. Moon amassed quite a fortune for himself as the leader of the Unification Church—by the time he died in 2012, he was worth millions. Moon led his followers, sometimes referred to as “Moonies,” to do many bizarre things. The Unification Church spent $48 million to produce an anti-communist movie. The movie flopped. Perhaps the movement is most notorious for the mass wedding of 3,000 couples in 1992.

The Unification Church is a false church. First, let us compare what the Bible says about false teachers to the life of Sun Myung Moon. According to 1 Timothy 6:3, teaching that is from God leads to holy and righteous living. Moon was accused of sexual impurity on numerous occasions. Moon was also convicted of tax evasion and sentenced to prison. The apostle Jude warns the church about men who would turn grace into a license for ungodly behavior (Jude 1:4).

Second, the Unification Church is characterized by false, unbiblical theology. According to Moon’s teaching, man is visible God, and God is the invisible form of man (see Hebrews 2:6–8 for a clear refutation of this). In fact, Moon crowned himself the “King of Peace” in 2004 and claimed to be the Messiah and Savior of the world; he also claimed his wife was the Holy Spirit. The purported goal of Unificationism is world peace through the creation of “true families.” Rev. Moon and his wife presented themselves as the “True Parents” and the first to have children who were sinless. Unificationism teaches that dead people can return to earth for a second chance to atone for some of their sin.

Unification theology denies the Trinitarian understanding of the Godhead (see Titus 2:13). Furthermore, Unificationism denies that Jesus was raised physically from the dead (see 1 Corinthians 15) and denies His divine nature (see Hebrews 1:1–3). Deliverance from sin, according to the Unification Church, is based on human effort and making restitution, directly contradicting Ephesians 2:8–9: “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” In this religion of works and the denial of the deity of Christ, the Unification Church joins the myriad of cults and false religions that have these same two things in common.

Aside from the deceptive tactics and mind-control practices of the Unification Church, the movement is dangerous because their theology directly contradicts Scripture. Followers of Sun Myung Moon’s teachings trust a false messiah and are deceived into false understandings about God, about Jesus, and about life after death. How unfortunate that people are attempting to work their way to heaven, when Jesus Christ has paid the complete penalty for their sin on the cross. How tragic that Moonies follow a self-serving (and dead) leader rather than the self-sacrificial (and risen) Christ. 

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory, 

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.gotquestions.org

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What does “The Family International” believe?

 

The Family International, previously known as the Children of God (COG), is a “Christian” communal group that originated in 1968. Founded by David Berg, the group emphasizes Christian love and scripture-based teachings, with a main focus on prophecy and apocalyptic expectations. Other names for the group were “Teens for Christ”, “The Children of God” (1968-1978), “The Family of Love” (1978-1982), to simply “The Family” (1982-2004). The current same of the group (2004-present) is The Family International.

 

“The Family” has been accused of various forms of abuse, including:

 

Sexual abuse: Allegations of adult-child sex, pedophilia, and sexual exploitation have been made against the group.

 

Financial exploitation: Former members have reported being forced to surrender their personal belongings and finances to the group’s leaders.

 

Emotional manipulation: The group’s authoritarian structure and charismatic leadership have been criticized for causing emotional trauma and psychological distress among members.

 

In 2010, the group officially disbanded and reformed as a small online network, claiming to have around 1,500 members in 80 countries. However, some critics argue that the group’s core ideology and abusive practices continue to persist in modified forms.

 

The Family's Biblical Apocalyptic Beliefs

The Family’s teachings and practices are influenced by various biblical interpretations and apocalyptic beliefs. Here are some key findings:

 

Apocalyptic eschatology: “The Family’s” teachings seem to be rooted in apocalyptic eschatology, which emphasizes the imminent end of the world and the revelation of God’s judgment. This perspective is reflected in their emphasis on the “end times” and the need for believers to prepare for the Second Coming.

 

Dispensational premillennialism: “The Family’s” beliefs may be influenced by dispensational premillennialism, which predicts a literal, thousand-year reign of Christ on earth after his second coming. This view is characterized by a focus on biblical prophecies and the identification of specific events and figures (e.g., the Antichrist, the Tribulation) leading up to the end times.

 

Literal interpretation of biblical prophecy: “The Family’s” teachings appear to rely on a literal interpretation of biblical prophecy, including apocalyptic passages like Daniel and Revelation. This approach emphasizes the fulfillment of specific prophecies and the need for believers to understand and prepare for the events described.

 

Focus on the Olivet Discourse: The Olivet Discourse in Mark 13, which describes Jesus’ teachings on the end times, may be a significant influence on “The Family’s” beliefs. This passage is often interpreted as a literal prediction of future events, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the Second Coming.

 

Importance of biblical typology: “The Family’s” teachings may also be shaped by biblical typology, which sees events and figures in the Old Testament as prefiguring or foreshadowing events and figures in the New Testament. This approach emphasizes the continuity and coherence of God’s plan throughout Scripture.

Emphasis on spiritual authority and revelation: The Family’s teachings seem to prioritize spiritual authority and revelation, with a focus on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the interpretation of biblical prophecy. This emphasis on spiritual authority may lead to a strong sense of community and shared understanding among Family members.

 

Interestingly enough, in my brief period of research about THE FAMILY, I saw nothing regarding sin, salvation, Jesus substitutionary death in our place, Almighty God being the only supreme deity, etc. I think that their sexual practices definitely make them a cult. The harm that this group has inflicted on their members is noteworthy and with many video accounts of former members talking about their struggle to have a normal life after they left the group, there is absolutely NO question they are cultic in nature.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: https://search.brave.com/search?q=What+are+the+core+biblical+interpretations+and+apocalyptic+beliefs+that+drive+the+Family

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What is the Christian Identity Movement?

 

The Christian Identity Movement is also known as Anglo-Israelism, Israel Identity.

 

Founder: Some think it to be Wesley Swift, born in the 1800s.  Others claim it can be traced back to the 1600s.

 

Headquarters: None.

 

Membership: less than 50,000. In America only.

 

Origins: This movement has its origins in the 1800’s America where it grew in the shadow of this country’s developing and successful conquering of the American continent combined with racial prejudices. Many of the whites believed that North America was ordained by God and blessed by Him to be supreme in the world. All other racial groups were considered inferior. Early contributing precursors to the Christian Identity Movement were the Nativist movement and Anglo Israelism. The Christian Identity Movement Nativism was a philosophy that those not born in America (excluding American Indians) and were not Protestant, were harmful to the American System. In particular, a strong anti-Catholic disposition was advocated. Manifestations of this philosophy resulted in the physical persecution of many Catholics in New York.

Anglo Israelism (also known as British Israelism) is the belief that the British and, therefore, the Americans and Canadians, are the true descendants of the ancient Israelites — the 10 lost tribes. The present Jews in Israel are really a false group descended from Cain.  Identity believers usually act out their faith through social, military, and political agendas.

An early proponent of this movement, Charles Carroll, wrote a book called The Negro a Beast. He considered Negroes to be subhuman. The KKK is usually associated with this group.

 

Doctrines: The Christian Identity Movement is not Christian at all. It is a theological system centered on a racist/anti-Semitic ideology and white supremacy. It seems to use religious arguments to justify political agendas.

 

Practices:

 

Structure – The Christian Identity Movement does not have a centralized organizational structure but has groups in almost every Western nation.

 

Recruitment – through extreme right-wing “churches,” survival groups, and word of mouth.

 

Adherents – generally are Ku Klux Klan, Aryan Nation, Nazi Party, White Separatist groups, etc.

 

Texts: Old and New Testaments of the Bible; some think sections of the U.S. Constitution were divinely inspired.

 

Comments: True Christianity is Christ-centered and focuses on love, forgiveness, and patience and is opposed to racism. However, there is none of that in the Christian Identity Movement, which advocates racism and anti-Semitism. It is a dangerous group and cultic at its core.

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: This assessment was written by Matt Slick | Jan 12, 2009; Minor Groups & Issues, Christian Identity Movement

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

What does the International Church of Christ (ICOC) believe?

 

The International Churches of Christ (ICOC) is a spin-off of the Churches of Christ; both groups are non-denominational, worldwide associations of churches and part of the Restoration Movement. The ICOC, officially formed in 1993, currently has a network of over 700 non-denominational churches in about 150 countries.

The International Churches of Christ goes by other names, as well: the Boston Movement, the Discipling Movement, the Crossroads Movement, and Multiplying Ministries, for example. Often, the city in which a local assembly is located is added to the name, for example, Milwaukee Church of Christ and Sarajevo Church of Christ. The ICOC teaches that there should only be one church per city and that all churches outside of the ICOC are sinful.

The International Churches of Christ has a number of distinctives. One is a strong emphasis on discipleship; however, “discipleship” in the ICOC often looks very different from what most other churches practice. Many who have left the ICOC have reported “heavy shepherding” tactics. That is, they experienced high-pressure, intrusive, and abusive or spiritually manipulative tactics at the hand of the leader they were assigned to.

Another distinctive is that the International Churches of Christ focuses its evangelism almost exclusively on college students through campus groups such as Campus Advance, Christian Students Association, and Disciples on Campus. This fits well with the ICOC’s preferred method of “love-bombing”—suddenly and purposefully surrounding a person with high amounts of friendly contact, various forms of aid, and an overall sense of being immersed in a community—things first-year college students especially crave. While none of these things are unbiblical (indeed, community, service, and friendliness are all excellent aims for Christians), the International Churches of Christ uses these virtues as a façade and manipulative tool to increase membership.

Theologically, the International Church of Christ holds to the basic tenets of Protestant evangelicalism, with two important exceptions. First, the group is exclusivist, claiming that the church is meant to be divided only by geography. Any church outside of their unified system, i.e., not under the ICOC’s leadership, is not a part of the “true church.” Such claims of exclusivity should raise a red flag. Any church or denomination that claims to be the “one true church” and that all others are false churches is itself teaching falsehood.

The International Churches of Christ also departs from sound doctrine in its teaching of baptismal regeneration, the belief that water baptism is required for salvation. The ICOC believes that anyone who is not baptized is not saved and must be “evangelized” and brought into the church. Further, the ICOC teaches that the only “valid” baptism is one performed by the ICOC. No other baptism will do. Further still, the ICOC does not allow anyone to be baptized until he or she is first a “disciple” committed to the organization. The Bible, on the other hand, teaches that salvation is by grace through faith, apart from works (Ephesians 2:8–9)—including the work of baptism.

The International Churches of Christ has a strict and invasive power structure that uses manipulation and indoctrination to control its membership. Many people have been hurt by this group emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. Because of its manipulative practices and errant view of salvation, one must be cautious against becoming involved in the International Churches of Christ. In 2006, the ICOC gave rise to another group, the International Christian Church, which teaches the same doctrines and engages in the same practices. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.compellingtruth.org

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

The Nation of Islam – What is it?

 

The Nation of Islam is an American form of Islam that encourages black nationalism and is considered heretical by traditional Muslims. Many of its beliefs tie to black racial supremacy. Wallace Fard, who became Wali Farad Muhammad, began the Nation of Islam in 1930 in Detroit, Michigan. He was frustrated with racial discrimination and created an expression of Islam to counter what he believed was the religion of "the white man"—Christianity. He adopted an altered form of Sunni Islam and then added his own ideas before disappearing in 1934. Elijah Muhammad (born Elijah Poole) then led the Nation of Islam until he died in 1975. He claimed a revelation from Allah to build temples or mosques and oppose integration with white people, whom he called "devils." The most prominent member of the Nation of Islam is Malcom X who joined in the 1950s, but later converted to traditional Sunni Islam. Louis Farrakhan began leading the Nation of Islam in 1977. In 2010 he mixed in some aspects of Dianetics* from Scientology. 

One goal of the Nation of Islam is to create a one-race state run by black people without interference from anyone from any other race. It promotes segregation, calling for African-Americans to establish their own schools, places of worship, and businesses. Additionally, the Nation of Islam is anti-Semitic, saying that Jacob from the Old Testament (whom they call "Yakub") created the white race using eugenics. Farrakhan says Jews control the United States to corrupt society. 

Of course, the Nation of Islam is not biblical. Its association with Islam and Scientology make it a false religion. Its teachings about racial superiority are dangerous. The Bible teaches the value and worth of all human life; no race is superior to another, and racism is anti-biblical. Christians are called to love people (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 7:12; John 13:34). All people, of every race, are invited to respond to God's offer of grace through belief in Jesus Christ (John 3:16–18). It is only through Jesus that we are saved (Acts 4:12).

Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.compellingtruth.org

* Dianetics, or Scientology, is the belief that our personal problems, physical and mental health issues, and other illnesses and troubles are caused by past experiences that have lasting effects upon us.

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

Is Scientology Christian or a cult?

 

Scientology is a difficult religion to summarize. Scientology was founded in 1953 by science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard and has gained popularity due to some Hollywood celebrities who have embraced it. Hubbard became a multi-millionaire as a result of creating Scientology. In fact, one of the most common criticisms of Scientology is that it is nothing more than a complex money-making scheme. The LA Times reported that the financial policy of Hubbard’s organization was, in Hubbard’s own words, “MAKE MONEY, MAKE MORE MONEY, MAKE OTHERS PRODUCE SO AS TO MAKE MONEY”. ^[1]

Scientology teaches that mankind is an immortal being (called a Thetan) not originally from this planet, and that man is trapped by matter, energy, space, and time (MEST). Salvation for a scientologist comes through a process called “auditing,” whereby “engrams” (basically, memories of past pain and unconsciousness that create energy blockage) are removed. Auditing is a lengthy process and can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. When all engrams are finally removed, the Thetan can once again control MEST instead of being controlled by it. Until salvation, each Thetan is constantly reincarnated.

Scientology is a very expensive religion to pursue. Every aspect of Scientology has some sort of fee associated with it. This is why Scientology’s “pews” are filled only with the wealthy. It is also a very strict religion and very punitive against those who would try to leave behind its teachings and membership. Its “scriptures” are limited solely to the writings and teachings of L. Ron Hubbard.

Though scientologists will claim that Scientology is compatible with Christianity, the Bible counters each and every belief they hold to. The Bible teaches that God is the sovereign and only creator of the universe (Genesis 1:1); mankind was created by God (Genesis 1:27); the only salvation available to man is by grace through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:8); salvation is a free gift that mankind can do nothing to earn (Ephesians 2:8-9); and Jesus Christ is alive and well and is seated at the right hand of God the Father even now (Acts 2:33; Ephesians 1:20; Hebrews 1:3), awaiting the time when He will gather His people to Himself to reside with Him for eternity in heaven. Everyone else will be cast into a very real hell, separated from God for eternity (Revelation 20:15).

Scientology categorically denies the existence of the God of the Bible, heaven, and hell. To a scientologist, Jesus Christ was simply a good teacher who unfortunately was wrongfully put to death. Scientology differs from biblical Christianity on every important doctrine. Some of the most important differences are summarized below:

 

God: Scientology believes that there are multiple gods and that some gods are above other gods. Biblical Christianity, on the other hand, recognizes the one and only true God who revealed Himself to us in the Bible and through Jesus Christ. Those who believe in Him cannot believe the false concept of God as taught in Scientology.

 

Jesus Christ: Like other cults, Scientology denies the deity of Christ. Instead of having a biblical view of who Christ is and what He did, they assign to Him the characteristics of some sort of lesser god who has obtained legendary status over the years. The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus was God in the flesh and through His incarnation He could act as a sacrifice for our sins. It is through Christ’s death and resurrection that we can have the hope of eternal life with God (John 3:16).

 

Sin: Scientology believes in the inherent goodness of man and teaches that it is despicable and utterly beneath contempt to tell a man he must repent or that he is evil. On the other hand, the Bible teaches that man is a sinner and the only hope for him is that he receive Christ as his Lord and Savior (Romans 6:23).

 

Salvation: Scientology believes in reincarnation and that personal salvation in one’s lifetime is freedom from the cycle of birth and death associated with reincarnation. They believe that religious practice of all faiths is the universal way to wisdom, understanding, and salvation. In contrast, the Bible teaches that there is only one way of salvation and that is through Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

 

Comparing the teachings of Scientology with the Bible, we see that the two have very little, if anything, in common. Scientology only leads away from God and eternal life. Scientology, while sometimes disguising its beliefs in Christian-sounding language, in fact diametrically opposes Christianity on every core belief. Scientology is clearly, and most definitely, not Christian. Based on their skewed views of the above MAIN doctrines professed by Christians, Scientology is very much, and without question, a cult.

Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.gotquestions.org

^[1] Joel Sappell and Robert W. Welkos. “The Scientology Story, Part 2: The Selling of a Church.” LATIMES. Monday, 6/25/1990, page A1:1. Los Angeles Times. WEB. 11/23/2015.

 

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

Who are the Jehovah's Witnesses? - Part 2

What do Jehovah's Witnesses believe? While there are some similarities to Christianity, the movement has distorted fundamental beliefs regarding many key biblical teachings. For example, Jehovah's Witnesses believe Jesus was previously Michael the archangel, making Jesus a created being. As a result, Jehovah's Witnesses reject the deity of Christ and the Christian belief in the Trinity. Only Jehovah is considered God. Further, in their view, salvation comes through faith and a list of works dictated by the Watchtower. This clearly contradicts many Scriptures that declare salvation is by grace alone through faith alone apart from works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Another key difference is the Jehovah's Witness view of Scripture. The Bible is considered corrupt, except for their own translation (the New World Translation). This version of the Bible has changed the name of God to "Jehovah" in hundreds of places in which the original text uses different names. Many other changes have been made, reflecting the particular theological beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses. Most notable is the NWT translation of John 1:1 that changes "the word was God" to "the word was a god". Many Greek scholars insist that this is not an accurate reflection of the original language and is, in fact, a deliberate mistranslation. Many other passages in the NWT have caused scholars to question the integrity of the translators.

Another area of difference concerns the afterlife. Jehovah's Witnesses teach three realms in the afterlife. First, there are the 144,000 who are in the highest realm with God (Revelation 7:1-4). Faithful Jehovah's Witnesses who do not make the 144,000 will be in the next level and are considered the "little flock" of Luke 12:32. Everyone else will be annihilated, meaning they cease to exist. These views are much different from the Bible's presentation of heaven and hell as the only two destinations after death (Luke 16:19-31).

Jehovah's Witnesses do not celebrate most holidays, do not vote, or hold political office, do not participate in patriotic activities, and do not accept blood transfusions. These and other unique prohibitions have caused much controversy throughout the movement's history.

In summary, the Jehovah's Witness movement is not a Christian denomination. Its core theological beliefs set it apart as a cult. Jehovah's Witnesses' views of God, Jesus, salvation, Scripture, and the afterlife are incompatible with biblical Christianity.

We shall continue our look at ‘cults’ in our next post. Until then, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.compellingtruth.org

THE 10 MOST DANGEROUS CULTS IN THE U.S.

Who are the Jehovah's Witnesses? - Part 1  

The religious movement known today as the Jehovah's Witnesses began in Pennsylvania in the 1870s as a Bible class led by Charles Russell. Born on February 16, 1852, in Old Allegheny, Pennsylvania, Russell attended Allegheny City Congregational Church with his parents. In 1868, when challenged on his views of hell, Russell expressed doubts about eternal torment. The following year, he abandoned his church and the Bible.

In 1870, Russell attended a religious meeting led by a Second Adventist speaker named Jonas Wendall. Wendall taught that a person does not have a soul and that unbelievers are simply annihilated. This provided a resolve to Russell's concerns regarding hell.

Two years later Russell organized a Bible class to promote his views. In 1877 he met N. H. Barbour, a man who believed in the invisible return of Christ. Russell, claiming he had already come to this same conclusion, also began to promote this view. Russell published The Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence in 1879 and founded Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society in 1884. 

By 1888, Russell's movement had grown to a leadership team of 50 people. Russell had published a series of books and was editing a growing magazine. In his writings Russell predicted that God's judgment and the millennial age would occur by 1914. Because of this teaching, the Russellites were also called Millennial Dawnists. When the prophecies proved untrue, some Russellites left the fold. But because World War I began the same year, many thought Russell's prediction was close enough and that the prophecy would soon be fulfilled. 

In modern times, this growing religious movement, now called Jehovah's Witnesses, has continued to expand nationally and internationally. Their headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, is called the Watchtower, and they have their own Bible translation called the New World Translation (NWT). In 2018, the Jehovah's Witnesses' official website (2017 Service Year Report) claimed a worldwide membership of just over 8.4 million members. (to be continued)

We shall continue our look at the Jehovah Witnesses in our next post. Until then, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.compellingtruth.org