Defender of the Faith – Vol. 1

This study, Defender of the Faith, is designed to recognize and deprogram individuals from cults, including certain Christian-identifying groups. Rooted in John 8:32 , the core message is that freedom comes from knowing and following the pure doctrine of Christ as revealed solely in Scripture. Any addition—man-made doctrines or extra-biblical revelations—creates "another gospel" and leads to deception.

22 Signs of a Cult

Bern identifies 22 characteristics common to cults, whether non-Christian, pseudo-Christian, or even within accepted denominations:

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  Exclusive, unscriptural doctrines: Unique teachings not found in the Bible.


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  Salvation by works: Grace is supplemented with human effort.


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  Uncertain eternal future: Members lack assurance of salvation.


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  Extra-biblical authority: Truth claimed from sources outside Scripture.


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  Authoritarian leadership: Leaders assume roles meant for the Holy Spirit.


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  False teachings accepted as truth.


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  Syncretism: Mixing pagan elements with Christian worship.


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  Scripture manipulation: Twisting verses to support specific beliefs.


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  Mind control: Fear-based or doctrinal manipulation.


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  Absurd lies taught as truth.


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  Exploitation of members.


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  Blind submission to human authority.


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  Another gospel: A distorted salvation message.


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  Religious spirit: Legalism disguised as holiness.


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  Antichrist spirit: Denying Christ’s true nature.


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  Pharisaical spirit: Overemphasis on outward law.


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  Jezebel spirit: Manipulative control.


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  Control spirit: Excessive control over members’ lives.


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  Spirit of error: Leading others from biblical truth.


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  Nicolaitanism: Clergy-layperson divide and domination.


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  Fear-based control.


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  Resistance to the Holy Spirit.

Understanding Those in Cults

To effectively help someone out of a cult, it’s essential to understand their mindset:

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  Lack of "Sola Scriptura": They don't view Scripture as the final authority.


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  Reliance on human interpretation: Trusting doctrines about God over God’s word itself.


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  Ingrained beliefs: Lifelong teachings make them resistant to new ideas.


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  Deep investment: Their identity or career may be tied to the group.


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  Tactics to avoid truth: They may redefine terms, dismiss Scripture, or claim subjective interpretation.


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  Brainwashing: Indoctrination is gradual, persistent, and difficult to undo.


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  Pre-programmed responses: Members are trained to deflect objections instinctively.