The following checklist of cultic tendencies by Charles Lesser was published in the October, 1991 Spiritual Counterfeits Project newsletter. They are typical of a number of aberrational cultic groups and churches on the scene today.
- Is your pastor fully accountable to a board of elders, presbyters, etc.?
- Is loyalty to Jesus and to one’s own calling placed before loyalty to pastor and church?
- Does your pastor encourage questions and suggestions? Is he approachable?
- Does your pastor give equal attention to all kinds of people in his congregation?
- Does your pastor readily admit his errors?
- Does your pastor avoid boasting or hinting at a “special anointing”?
- Is your pastor truly humble?
- Are the sermons based on clear Biblical truths, not on “original revelations” or ax-grinding?
- Does your church interact with other churches?
- Does your church staff avoid secrecy?
- Is power shared in your church (rather than preempted by a hierarchy)?
- Does your church see itself as just one organ of the Body of Christ, and not the main one?
- Is your church truly friendly?
- Does your church emphasize ministry to people rather than church programs?
- Are especially needy people cared for lovingly in your church?
- Are church members encouraged and loved even when they leave?
- Are relationships with former members encouraged or allowed?
- Do the pastor and congregation avoid attacking and using as object lessons, former members or those who disagree?
- Are families encouraged to stay together and spend time together?
- Does your family worship Sunday service include children, at least for part of the service?
- Are you encouraged in your own calling?
- Are pleas for money rare and unemotional?
- Are your children happy to attend church?
- Are you happy to bring unsaved friends to your church?
- Is there a diversity of classes, races, dress styles, ages, and occupations in your church?
- Are people encouraged to hear from God for themselves?
- Is there a single behavior standard for all people in the church?
- Are all types of people considered welcome at your church?
- Is the joy of the Lord present in your church?
- Are you free from fear in your church?
- Do you think more about God and Jesus than you do about your pastor and church?
- Does your pastor include himself in any calls for repentance and forgiveness?
- Are you clear that the pastors and elders never exaggerate or lie to make themselves look good?
- Is your group encouraging of each other and free from gossip and rumoring?
- Is there a humility of doctrine that points to the grace of God and His mercy for sinners?
- Are you encouraged to serve in ministries or missions outside the local body?
- Is there ever any pressure put upon members to give or lend money to leaders for their personal or business use (exclusive of church business or projects)?
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