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In this episode of the Servants of Grace Theology Segment, Dave Jenkins answers a listener’s question: “Why do cults use God falsely in their mission?”
Cults often use religious language and biblical imagery to manipulate and control. They twist Scripture, exploit faith, and claim divine authority to lead others into deception. In this episode, Dave unpacks how these spiritual traps work — and how Christians can recognize them and respond with truth, wisdom, and discernment.
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What You’ll Learn:
- How cults use religious language to gain trust
- Why leaders invoke God’s name to justify control
- Common tactics: isolation, fear, control, shame
- Biblical discernment to spot false teaching
- How Christians can stand firm in truth and grace
Scripture References:
- Matthew 7:15–17
- 2 Timothy 4:3–4
- Galatians 1:6–9
- Acts 17:11
- 2 Timothy 3:16–17
- 1 Timothy 4:1
- Ephesians 6:10–18
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cult according to the Bible?
While the Bible doesn’t use the word “cult” directly, it repeatedly warns against false prophets, false teachers, and those who distort the gospel (see Matthew 7:15, Galatians 1:6–9, and 2 Timothy 4:3–4). A cult is typically defined as a group that twists core biblical doctrine, adds or subtracts from Scripture, and often elevates a leader to divine authority.
How do cults use Scripture to manipulate people?
Cults often quote Bible verses out of context, redefine biblical terms, and claim special revelation or authority. They use religious language to gain trust and create spiritual fear, controlling members by making obedience to the group synonymous with obedience to God.
How can I spot the signs of a cult?
Red flags include: isolation from outside influence, unquestioned authority, fear-based control, altered gospel doctrine, and discouraging independent study of the Bible. Always compare teachings with Scripture (Acts 17:11) and look for humility, accountability, and sound doctrine.
What should I do if I suspect someone is in a cult?
Pray for them. Be patient and gracious. Engage them with Scripture in context. Focus on the gospel and the sufficiency of Christ. Encourage them to examine the Bible for themselves and connect with a biblically faithful local church.
How can I protect myself and my family from spiritual deception?
Study God’s Word regularly. Be committed to a local church. Learn sound doctrine. Equip yourself and your family with biblical discernment. As Ephesians 6 reminds us, put on the full armor of God to stand against the schemes of the enemy.
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
