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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: There are many churches posing as Christian but are really involved in cult practices and teachings. Until you get in there, it’s not possible to know. How does a person find out before they’re trapped? – F.R.

A: Many groups are vying for listening ears—many anxious to listen. This is nothing new. When there were only two beings on Earth, having heard directly from God, they chose instead to listen to Satan’s deceptive voice. We must remember that a deceptive voice will always call God into question. This is the age-old story of Adam and Eve.

When looking for a church home there are questions to ask. One: Is Christ worshiped as Lord and Savior? Some cults dismiss Christ completely or suggest that He was only a great teacher. Some claim salvation is not to be found in Christ. The Bible says that salvation is found in no one else (see Acts 4:12, 1 Peter 3:18).

Two: Is the Bible (God’s Word) central as the one true guide to faith and practice? Cults and false religions often ignore or even deny the full inspiration and authority of the Bible as the Word of God. They often add or substitute a set of man-made teachings (doctrine) not found in Scripture. We must even be cautious of translations of Scripture that twist the meaning of the Bible’s clear teaching.

Three: Is involvement with other believers centered in a Bible-believing church where Jesus Christ is worshiped and obeyed? While the church is not perfect, it is important to belong to a church whose foundation is God’s Word.

We also must rely on the Lord to guide us and ask Him to help us decipher between truth and lies. Jesus is the truth (see John 14:6); God will always lead people to His truth.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2023 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.