Many of the prime victims of cults have a religious background.

In the past the Jehovah’s Witnesses and today The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) have used the King James Version of the Bible in their initial discussions with prospects. Because the King James Bible has been universally accepted, when cults twist certain passages in order to spread their false religions, those people to whom they are talking are often times caught off guard.

As a member of a Christian church you can take actions to safeguard other members of your congregation. Talk to your pastor about how to provide awareness for the congregation.

Or if you are a pastor, consider teaching an informative class on one or several aberrant groups. If you do not feel comfortable adding this teaching to your already full schedule, consider arranging for people who deal with these issues daily to assist you.

Watchman Fellowship wants to know how we may serve you and are open to discussing the form that would best meet your needs. Our Georgia office offers teaching in small group or larger classroom settings, as well as individual counsel and training, and informative literature for any setting.

If you are involved in a Sunday School class, make sure that your pupils know the fundamentals of their faith. Supplement your Sunday School material with doctrinal teachings, such as why we believe the Bible, what Jesus’ death on the cross did for us, faith verses works salvation, the nature of God, etc.

Many of the larger Christian denominations have informative materials on cults. Perhaps you can order a stack of tracts or data sheets (from them, or Watchman) explaining what a certain group believes and distribute this information throughout the church on the first Sunday of each month.

Perhaps you may be able to have an information table or tract rack filled with appropriate tracts to help Christians combat false teaching in your area.

It has been said before, and it is true:

The best defense is a good offense.

Make sure your church members are informed about cults and know the difference between a false belief system and biblical Christianity.

By Marsha Norton