A healthy understanding of Christianity is rooted in the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. While Christianity has many denominations and variations, the core principles of the faith—salvation through grace, the authority of Scripture, and the worship of God alone—should remain consistent. However, there are some groups and movements that may claim to be Christian but deviate from these foundational truths. In this chapter, we will discuss common traits and practices that can help identify false Christian faith groups.
1. Exalting Leaders Above God and the Bible
One of the hallmarks of false Christian faith groups is the elevation of their leaders to a position of authority that surpasses the Bible and, at times, even God Himself. The Bible is clear in its teaching that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, and no human leader should ever replace or overshadow Christ’s position. Yet, in certain groups, this can be distorted in the following ways:
A. Worship of Leaders
When a group places an excessive focus on a human leader—be it a pastor, prophet, or founder—above the teachings of Scripture, that’s a red flag. In some cults and unorthodox Christian movements, followers regard leaders as infallible and may treat their words as equal to or even more authoritative than the Bible.
Signs to watch for:
- The leader’s words are considered the ultimate authority in determining truth, sometimes over Scripture.
- The leader demands unquestioning loyalty and submission from members, positioning themselves as a necessary mediator between God and the people.
- Critical questioning of the leader or their teachings is discouraged or even punished.
B. Divine Status of Leaders
Leaders may claim that they are divinely inspired or equivalent to Jesus Christ, blurring the lines between human authority and divine status. This is a severe distortion of the Christian faith and could be a sign that the group is deviating from orthodox Christianity.
Signs to watch for:
- Leaders claim to have a direct line to God, superior spiritual insight, or a unique, unbroken lineage of spiritual authority.
- Leaders are referred to in divine or exalted terms, beyond any scriptural precedent e.g. daddy or Man of God.
- A clear focus on the leader’s personality or charisma, rather than the teachings of Jesus.
Scriptural Reference: Jesus himself warned against the exaltation of human leaders over God. In Matthew 23:8-10, He says, “But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, and He is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah.”
2. Veneration of “Saints” and Other Figures Above Christ
Another defining trait of false Christian faith groups is the undue reverence or veneration of saints, angels, or other spiritual figures that is disproportionate to the reverence due to Christ alone. While the Bible acknowledges that believers should honor godly men and women from the past, it consistently directs worship toward God alone (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Any practice that diverts this focus is a serious concern.
A. Venerating Saints
In some groups, there is a practice of venerating or praying to saints – dead Christians who are believed to have a special relationship with God. The belief that saints can intercede on behalf of the living contradicts the biblical teaching that Jesus Christ alone is the mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). The focus on these figures can detract from the centrality of Christ and the sufficiency of His atonement.
Signs to watch for:
- Prayers are directed toward saints or angels, with the belief that these figures can intercede on behalf of the worshiper.
- Relics, statues, or icons of saints are treated with reverence or even worshiped.
- The group emphasizes the need for the intercession of saints rather than encouraging direct personal prayer to God.
Scriptural Reference: 1 Timothy 2:5 clearly states, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
B. Excessive Focus on Religious Figures
Some groups focus on figures they deem especially holy or righteous. These groups emphasize these figures’ teachings, practices, or lifestyles to the point where they overshadow the work of Christ. While the Bible recognizes the good works of saints and encourages believers to learn from their examples, it never intends for these individuals to take precedence over Christ Himself.
Signs to watch for:
- Emphasis on the writings and teachings of certain religious figures or leaders, whose words are treated as almost scriptural.
- Followers might be taught that their salvation or spiritual success depends on emulating these figures, rather than following Christ’s commands.
Scriptural Reference: Hebrews 12:2 instructs believers to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” While the Bible acknowledges the importance of fellow believers, it places the focus on Christ as the ultimate source of salvation and the perfect example.
Chapter 2: Additional Characteristics of False Christian Faith Groups
While exalting leaders and venerating saints are significant indicators of false faith groups, there are other telltale signs that should raise concern for anyone who is genuinely seeking to follow Christ in truth. In this chapter, we will explore further behaviors and teachings to watch out for in identifying a potentially false Christian group.
3. Denial of Key Christian Doctrines
A common trait of false Christian faith groups is a denial or alteration of key biblical doctrines such as the divinity of Christ, salvation by grace alone, the necessity of repentance, and the sufficiency of Scripture. A true Christian group adheres to the Bible’s teachings about the person and work of Jesus Christ.
A. Distorted View of Jesus
Some groups may teach that Jesus was a created being, that He was not fully God, or that He was not the only way to salvation. These teachings undermine the central truth of Christianity—that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, who came to earth to save humanity.
Signs to watch for:
- The group denies that Jesus is fully God and fully man.
- Salvation through Jesus is either downplayed or replaced by other means, such as works or knowledge.
- Jesus is viewed merely as a good teacher or a prophet, not as the Savior and Lord.
Scriptural Reference: John 14:6 records Jesus saying, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
B. Salvation by Works or Knowledge
A false group may teach that salvation is achieved by personal effort, adherence to specific rituals, or acquiring special knowledge. This is in direct contradiction to the biblical teaching of salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Signs to watch for:
- Salvation is presented as something to be earned or achieved through obedience to a set of rules or practices.
- Special knowledge or revelation is emphasized as necessary for salvation.
- Followers are taught to focus on their works, rather than the grace of God through Jesus Christ.
Scriptural Reference: Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Conclusion
When evaluating a Christian faith group, it is crucial to examine whether its teachings align with Scripture. The Bible warns of false teachers who lead believers astray, and we must be vigilant in ensuring that our worship, beliefs, and practices honor God alone, through Jesus Christ. Watch for groups that exalt human leaders, venerate saints, distort key doctrines, or promote a gospel other than the one found in Scripture. A true Christian group will always emphasize the Bible’s authority, the sufficiency of Christ, and the call to love and worship God alone.
it is important to find a community of Christian believers where you can grow in your faith, but it is crucial that you choose carefully. There are churches that may appear to be just a different denomination but they ascribe to beliefs that are unscriptural. Some examples include: Jehovah’s Witness, Mormonism, Christian Science, Seventh Day Adventists, Unitarianism, The Church of Christ and Black Hebrew Israelites.
You can find additional help in making your choice here.