Are there guidelines that would help me deal with this better?

on Dec 11, 2025

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I’m living in a new city, with a new job and new neighbors. When people invite me to their church, I ask them what they believe. When I visit the church, I learn that I’ve been duped, because it’s more of a cult than a church, but the window dressing they presented made me feel good about visiting. Are there guidelines that would help me deal with this better? – C.S.

A: Three key questions can be helpful in determining whether a ‘church’ is Biblical or not. First, is the Bible the foundation of the pastor’s teaching/preaching? Very often, non-Christian sects will claim to believe the Bible, but they also emphasize the writings of someone else’s teaching, such as their founder. Or they may have their own translation of the Bible, which they claim is more accurate, although not recognized by any other group. The Bible, and the Bible alone, is God’s Word, and no additional source is attached. The Bible is God’s complete and final revelation of Himself to us.

Second, what does the church teach about Christ? Does church teaching claim that He is a great religious leader, but not fully God? The Bible stresses that Jesus Christ is God Himself, come down from Heaven in human form.

Third, what does the church teach about salvation? Salvation comes to us as a gift of God’s grace through faith in Christ. It is never through Christ plus anything else.

Fourth, before committing to an invitation, spend time in prayer. Ask the Lord to give you wisdom as you seek to find a place to worship with other believers and have fellowship with them around the preaching of God’s truth.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)