Confronting the Cults [antikvár]

PREFACE Confronting the Cults attempts an approach which is at once thoughtful, usable, and challenging. Responsible distinctions between cultic perversions and genuine Christianity require careful thought. Only a thorough investigation of the New Testament can reveal what explicit teachings, if any, must be believed in order to receive eternal life. This genuinely Christian faith may be clearly contrasted to others by putting these Scriptural truths in the form of seven questions. Anticipated answers to them are found in the cult's most influential publications. Reflecting upon these standard replies, the Christian studies relevant Scripture to help, not hurt people influenced by the cults. This Biblical approach to the cults may be used in several different ways. The seven leading questions not only enable any Christian to recognize counterfeit Christianity. They also suggest ways in which Christians may take the initiative in discussions with neighbors, friends or callers from the cults and direct them to the heart of the gospel. The major divisions within each chapter are marked by one of these Scriptural questions. A most profitable doctrinal use of the book would compare and contrast the teachings of these major cults on one or more of the fundamental issues. Beyond this, the work seeks to present a multiple challenge. It calls Christians to develop an attitude toward the cultists that is conducive of understanding, fairness and meaningful communication. It challenges Christians to learn from the cults the secrets of their effectiveness in our twentieth century world. It constitutes a summons to all who may be "playing church" to dedicate themselves to confronting the cults with the one gospel of Jesus Christ — the Lord of all. The author wishes to express his gratitude to the Reverend Edward L. Hayes, Associate Professor of Christian Education at Conservative Baptist Theological Seminary, for preparing the sections entitled "Teaching Suggestions."