Pray with Caution: 10 Red Flags Your Church May Actually Be a Cult

Christopher Jacob
7 min readMay 6, 2023

The phenomenon of cults has long fascinated scholars and researchers alike, who have attempted to unravel the complex dynamics of these secretive organizations.

It is no secret that religion can have a powerful influence on people’s lives. It can offer advice, comfort, and a feeling of belonging. Religious organizations, however, are built on different foundations and purposes, yet they still use the same doctrines.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Are not all religions cults?

Yes.

Are not all cults dangerous?

No.

The term “cult” has become a pejorative term for mainstream culture because of its connotation with violence and exploitation.

But if that is true, what is the difference between traditional religious beliefs and practices and the churches whose members unknowingly participate in a religious cult that has ulterior intentions? It can be challenging to distinguish between a guileless religious congregation and a cult.

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Christopher Jacob
Christopher Jacob

Written by Christopher Jacob

Come as you are. Doused in Mud, Soaked in Bleach. Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology, and Business. Two-time International Award-Winning Writer and Editor.

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