2 Corinthians 1:24 Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.

This is clear evidence that Paul wasn’t a cult leader, because this is not how cults operate. In contrast to what Paul says here, cults specifically try to control the faith of their followers. Yes, there are some Christian cults, and some of the members of them are genuinely saved, but those who are saved tend not to remain in the cult, because their allegiance is to Christ, rather than to the cult or its leader. Sadly, some more genuinely Christian groups also tend to have cultish characteristics, specifically in the area of control. We humans tend to have a lust for power, and when that operates in a religious framework, cults develop. In contrast, genuine Christian faith says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) Paul was constantly fighting with those who insisted that to become Christians, Gentiles had to convert to Judaism first, in true cultic fashion. We tend to be afraid of freedom, because we recognize our own rebellious tendencies. However, human control is never the answer, even over ourselves. We need the Holy Spirit’s control! When human leaders try to take the place of the Holy Spirit, genuinely horrible things happen.

I have an instinctual reaction against legalism, but that certainly doesn’t mean I’m always right. An overreaction to legalism is very dangerous. As Paul said, “What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? By no means!” (Romans 6:15) As a pastor, I’ve got to walk the line of expressing God’s rules but not trying to enforce obedience myself. Tithing is an excellent case in point. I have experienced the blessings of tithing, acknowledging God as my supply in that way, and I certainly recommend it to all, but if I make it an “admission fee” for church membership, I have strayed into cult territory. I know of churches that treat it as exactly that! I’ve got to remember that “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17) Likewise, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13) I’ve got to let God be in control on every level, in my own life and in the lives of those under my care. Only He can get it right!

Father, thank You for this reminder. I do pray that every believer would indeed discover the freedom of Your Spirit, in full righteousness and holiness, for their blessing and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!