FALSE ACCUSATIONS REGARDING BEING CALLED "A CULT".
"Let all things be done decently and in order." I Corinthians 14:40
To prevent frivolous charges and false accusers from branding at will any group or organization they wish to deem a "Cult", always remember a SPECIFIC RULING from Authorized Councils or Synods of the Assemblies must be cited.[1]
If there was no such Ruling from the Assemblies in the area the organization is accused, there is simply NO CULT as far as the Assemblies are concerned.
These Rulings were given to His True Church for our benefit. Those that deny them are possibly themselves a "cult", and embracing heretical views.
However, if a Ruling is found regarding the accusation, then we are to examine said person or organization to determine whether the charges are true or false.
PEOPLE OF G-D MINISTRIES
© Copyright 2001 People of G-d Ministries, Inc. No reproduction or redistribution without the Prior Written Consent and Approval of People of G-d.
FOOTNOTES
[1
For example, say someone brings forth the accusation that you are involved in "doctrines of demons" for instance. Such a charge in not sufficient, for it must stand upon a Ruling of the Assemblies United.
Usually overzealous misinformed or immature believers make such charges when it is they themselves that are either involved in a Heresy, or have their own or someone elses' "personal opinion" about Bible interpretation which denies true Church Councils and/or Synods.
We are to "bear with" such ones, but not to "doubtful disputations". If they continue to go against what the early Assemblies have Ruled, then they are to be separated from.
The Apostle Paul clearly said that the L-RD would provide "Pastors and Teachers" to the flock in every generation as He is Faithful. We can find these Pastors and Bishops that G-d has set over the Assemblies historically. Polycarp, for example, was a disciple of the Apostle John, and passed on information in writings. Such persons as Justin Martyr, Eusebius, Tertullian, Augustine and many others' works are readily available.
Remember that anyone who rejects the authorities of the Church, saying "they only need the Bible" is acting against what G-d has Ordained for His Church. Young believers may sometimes be led astray by such false teachers.
When you identify such an one or such a group or "denomination", separate immediately. They are most likely involved in a cult.
Berkhof, Louis. The Story of Christian doctrines. Grand Rapids. Banner of Truth Trust. 1937.
Gonzalez, Justo L. The History of Christianity. Peabody, Massachusettes. Prince Press. 1999.