ASK DOC: WHAT IS A CULT? - THREE THINGS TO WATCH FOR

The term “cult” is one of the most misused and misunderstood labels in modern religious discussion. It is thrown around loosely—often as a social or emotional reaction—rather than defined with precision. Some use it to describe any small or unpopular group. Others use it as a dismissive insult against theological opponents. Neither approach is sufficient.

The issue is not sociological—it is doctrinal. Scripture does not categorize error by size, influence, or public perception. It categorizes error by its relationship to truth.

A cult, in biblical terms, is any system that claims allegiance to Christ while corrupting the gospel, redefining the person of Christ, and establishing an authority structure that rivals or replaces Scripture.

The standard is not tradition. The standard is not history. The standard is not institutional legitimacy.

The standard is the apostolic gospel.