QKAG: Issue # 44

PAST ISSUE # 44
Questions Kids Ask About God

Question: What is a cult?

Answer: A cult is a group of people who follow the unique teachings and practices of a religious leader. These teachings are mostly false because they contradict the Holy Bible. Some cults deny Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and other believe that they can become "gods" themselves. But, we know that Jesus is God's one and only Son (John 3:16), and there is only one God (Exodus 20:2-3). Basically, it takes a lot of discernment to identify cults because most of them seem harmless and sincere. However, God will punish those who reject the truth (John 3:36; Revelation 2:20-23).

Key Bible verses:
Matthew 15:9; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Colossians 2:8; 1 Timothy 1:19; 2 Timothy 4:4; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 2:18-23

My views:
False teachers and teachings have infiltrated the Church for many centuries. For example, the early churches in Colosse and Ephesus had problems with false teachings (Ephesians; Colossians; 1 Timothy). These days, our churches are also not immune to false teachers and teachings. Some have fallen away from sound biblical teachings to follow deceiving spirits (1 Timothy 4:1).
So, how do Christians guard against false teachers and teachings?
1. Study, understand, and apply God's Word (Holy Bible) in our lives. For example, if we want to know whether a currency is counterfeit, we must first know the genuine currency. Therefore, it is important to be grounded in the God's Word so that we can differentiate falsehood from the truth (2 Timothy 3:15-16).
2. Live a life of prayer by asking God for guidance, discernment, and wisdom. In particular, ask for God to send His Holy Spirit to teach and reveal us the truth (John 14:26; 1 John 2:20).
3. Live a life of holiness and righteousness by obeying God's commandments (Colossians 1:10; 1 John 2:3-6). This will help us know God's will so that we will not be led astray by Satan and his agents (John 10:2-5).
Related topic in Issues # 16, 17, 20.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ to die on the Cross for my sins. Right now, I ask for Your Holy Spirit to guide and teach me to know the Truth. During my bible study, I pray that You will speak to me and help me to better understand Your will. Please give me the faith and strength to obey your commandments so that I may glorify You. I ask all of these for the sake of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Last words...
"The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." (2 Corinthians 4:4)
Next