DiscoverThe Chorus in the ChaosS04E01 American Cults 101:What is a Cult?
S04E01 American Cults 101:What is a Cult?

S04E01 American Cults 101:What is a Cult?

Update: 2025-11-10
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Summary


Season 4 launches with a field guide to American cults: where they came from, how they function, and what sets them apart from orthodox Christianity. We lay out our two-episode rhythm for each movement (history + doctrine) and explain why this isn’t just academic—these are the folks knocking on your door and sitting in your break room.


Highlights




  • Walter Martin’s working definition of a cult




  • The 1830–1890 surge in the Northeast and the “Burned-Over District”




  • First vs. Second Great Awakening—and how Finney’s “new measures” influenced later errors




  • Doctrinal markers: denial of the Trinity, diminished view of Christ, extra-biblical revelation




  • Sociological markers: authoritarian leadership, information control, us-vs-them identity, behavioral rules, shunning, apocalyptic urgency




  • Works/loyalty systems vs. the gospel of grace




  • The real cost of leaving—and how Christians can care well




Connect



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S04E01 American Cults 101:What is a Cult?

S04E01 American Cults 101:What is a Cult?

The Chorus in the Chaos