Avoiding Deceptive Evangelism

I recently heard the testimony of a woman who spent several years in a "Christian cult."(1)

The first year they taught things that agreed with traditional Christianity. But the second year, after they felt their converts were committed, they began teaching their strange beliefs. The website of this particular cult also leaves their strange beliefs out of their introductory explanations.

This is a deceptive method used by many false teachers, but sometimes genuine Christians fall into this pattern. When we share Christ, we sometimes minimize the responsibilities of being a Christian and only talk about the joy, peace, and eternal life Christ gives.

We need to remember what Christ shared in Luke 14:25-34 when he explained that Christianity is for people willing to carry a cross, put God above all else, and live for His purposes. Part of the gospel message is letting people know that Christianity is more than words. It's a lifestyle of commitment and perseverance.(2)

So let's share Christ with right motives (1 Thessalonians 2:3-4). And let's share accurately, fully, and unashamedly.

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(1) These cults are actually "non-Christian," but the term "Christian cult" is used for groups that share some similar beliefs with mainstream Christianity but give equal or greater weight to non-biblical beliefs and present-day prophets. The word "cult" in this case does not mean a group that brainwashes or forces people to do things against their will. It simply means they have changed the true doctrines of Christianity. The two most well-known Christian cults are Mormonism and Jehovah's Witnesses. 

(2) Whenever I speak about the committed Christian lifestyle, I typically have someone accuse me of believing in "works salvation." Not true. We aren't saved by any good work. But we are saved to do good works which God prepares for us in advance (Matthew 5:16; James 3:13; 1 Peter 2:12; Ephesians 2:10).

To read more: 

Is Mormonism a Cult?   

What is Mormonism? 

Weird Things Mormons Believe written by former Mormons

Jehovah's Witnesses in a Nutshell

Who are the Jehovah's Witnesses?

Bible Love Notes