Edited by Jim McCrory, Monday 8 September 2025 at 11:57
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6
Searching For Truth
More and more people today are waking up to the realization that they are, in fact, part of a cult. One common question that surfaces is: “But what about all the good things my group does?” The truth is that people rarely join a cult because of its shadows; they are drawn in by the warmth it seems to radiate. Yet those who share that warmth often don’t see that they themselves are still in need of light.
This is what makes cults so deceptive: they often cloak themselves in good works and community spirit. From the outside, the word cult might bring to mind secretive rituals, wild beliefs, or extreme fanaticism. But in reality, most operate quietly, presenting themselves as legitimate movements that promise hope, belonging, or answers to life’s deepest questions.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you might be in a cult, it usually begins with a subtle unease—an inner sense that something isn’t quite right. The process of recognition starts when you allow yourself to ask tough questions about the group’s teachings, its leaders, and the degree of freedom you actually have. Beware, if a naked man offers you a shirt as the expression goes.
At the centre of almost every cult is absolute authority. Leaders claim to hold exclusive truths, beyond question or challenge. If raising doubts is met with fear, punishment, or rejection, that’s a sign of unhealthy control. In contrast, healthy communities encourage dialogue, accountability, and independent thought.
Another warning sign is isolation. Cults often create an “us versus them” mindset, where outsiders are portrayed as threats. Over time, members are urged to distance themselves from family and friends, until the group becomes the only source of emotional, social, and even financial support.
Then there are the demands. Many cults expect heavy sacrifices of time, money, and personal energy, always placing the group’s needs above your own. This may extend into the control of emotions, too. Fear, shame, and guilt are wielded to keep members in line. Leaving is often painted as betrayal—bringing divine punishment, public shaming, or the loss of your entire community.
Exclusivity of truth is another hallmark. Cults insist they alone possess the path to salvation, enlightenment, or fulfilment. All other viewpoints are dismissed as dangerous, and independent thinking is stifled.
At first, the control may be subtle. Many groups use love bombing—lavishing newcomers with attention, praise, and acceptance to draw them in. But as time passes, warmth can turn cold. Public humiliation, shunning, or harsh criticism are used to enforce compliance, and those who leave are often vilified.
Secrecy plays a role as well. Financial dealings, leadership decisions, or inner teachings are often hidden until a member is deeply entangled. But genuine, trustworthy organizations are marked by openness, not secrecy.
So how can you discern the difference? Ask yourself:
Do I feel free to walk away without fear or punishment?
Am I encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and disagree?
Do the leaders live by the same standards they demand of others?
Does my involvement leave me stronger, freer, and more hopeful—or diminished?
Recognizing these patterns is not easy, especially when you’ve invested so much of yourself. But pausing to evaluate with honesty is vital. Trusted friends, family outside the group, or professional counsellors can help you see clearly.
Above all, remember truth, life, and freedom are not found in human authority or exclusive systems—but in Christ himself to the glory of the Father.
Searching For Truth
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through me.”
— John 14:6
Searching For Truth
More and more people today are waking up to the realization that they are, in fact, part of a cult. One common question that surfaces is: “But what about all the good things my group does?” The truth is that people rarely join a cult because of its shadows; they are drawn in by the warmth it seems to radiate. Yet those who share that warmth often don’t see that they themselves are still in need of light.
This is what makes cults so deceptive: they often cloak themselves in good works and community spirit. From the outside, the word cult might bring to mind secretive rituals, wild beliefs, or extreme fanaticism. But in reality, most operate quietly, presenting themselves as legitimate movements that promise hope, belonging, or answers to life’s deepest questions.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you might be in a cult, it usually begins with a subtle unease—an inner sense that something isn’t quite right. The process of recognition starts when you allow yourself to ask tough questions about the group’s teachings, its leaders, and the degree of freedom you actually have. Beware, if a naked man offers you a shirt as the expression goes.
At the centre of almost every cult is absolute authority. Leaders claim to hold exclusive truths, beyond question or challenge. If raising doubts is met with fear, punishment, or rejection, that’s a sign of unhealthy control. In contrast, healthy communities encourage dialogue, accountability, and independent thought.
Another warning sign is isolation. Cults often create an “us versus them” mindset, where outsiders are portrayed as threats. Over time, members are urged to distance themselves from family and friends, until the group becomes the only source of emotional, social, and even financial support.
Then there are the demands. Many cults expect heavy sacrifices of time, money, and personal energy, always placing the group’s needs above your own. This may extend into the control of emotions, too. Fear, shame, and guilt are wielded to keep members in line. Leaving is often painted as betrayal—bringing divine punishment, public shaming, or the loss of your entire community.
Exclusivity of truth is another hallmark. Cults insist they alone possess the path to salvation, enlightenment, or fulfilment. All other viewpoints are dismissed as dangerous, and independent thinking is stifled.
At first, the control may be subtle. Many groups use love bombing—lavishing newcomers with attention, praise, and acceptance to draw them in. But as time passes, warmth can turn cold. Public humiliation, shunning, or harsh criticism are used to enforce compliance, and those who leave are often vilified.
Secrecy plays a role as well. Financial dealings, leadership decisions, or inner teachings are often hidden until a member is deeply entangled. But genuine, trustworthy organizations are marked by openness, not secrecy.
So how can you discern the difference? Ask yourself:
Recognizing these patterns is not easy, especially when you’ve invested so much of yourself. But pausing to evaluate with honesty is vital. Trusted friends, family outside the group, or professional counsellors can help you see clearly.
Above all, remember truth, life, and freedom are not found in human authority or exclusive systems—but in Christ himself to the glory of the Father.