HERESIES

AND CULT IN
THE 21ST
CENTURY
2nd Peter 2:1-2

12/4/2023
Rev. Faris Chichir
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction------------------------------------------------p3
2. Biblical Wisdom on Cultism-----------------------------p4
3. Reasons for the Rise of Cults and Heresies in Kenya-----P5
4. Notable Cases of Cults and Heresies in Kenya--------------p5
5. Materialism or prosperity gospel.----------------------p6
6. Asceticism- --------------------------------------------------p7
7. Mysticism----------------------------------------------------p8
8. Eschatological and prophetic heresies-----------------p10
9. Legalism------------------------------------------------------p11
10. Messiah-ship-claim------------------------------------------------p12
11. Signs someone might be in a cult------------------------p13
12. How to identify cults and heresies----------------------P14
13. The Truth from the Bible----------------------------------------p14
14. Warning signs of cult affiliation------------------------p15
15. How To Avoid Falling Into Heresy---------------------p15
16. Solutions and the Way Forward------------------------p16
17. New Testament Heresies-------------------------16

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 HERESIES AND CULT IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Conference theme contending for the faith that was once delivered to the
saints Jude 3

DAY ONE

Introduction

2nd Peter 2:1-2

"But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be
false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies,
even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift
destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will
bring the way of truth into disrepute."

1st Timothy 4:1-2

"The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and
follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come
through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot
iron."

Definition of terms;

Heresy:
Definition: Heresy refers to a belief or opinion that goes against the
established or orthodox teachings of a religious faith or doctrine. It often
involves a rejection of essential tenets and the propagation of ideas deemed
harmful or contrary to the core beliefs of a religious community.
Cults:
Definition: A cult is often defined as a group with religious or spiritual beliefs
that deviate significantly from the normative beliefs of a society. Cults may be
characterized by a charismatic leader, distinctive beliefs, and practices that are
often seen as unorthodox or outside mainstream religious traditions. It's
essential to note that not all groups labeled as cults are harmful, and the term
can carry negative connotations.
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Heresy is about theology—the content of doctrinal teaching.
A cult is about practice—the style of leadership (usually controlling) and
attitude towards others (usually standing apart and feeling superior). Cults
frequently teach heresy, but not always. Heresy can lead to cultish practices.

False religion
Definition: The term "false religion" typically refers to belief systems or
religious practices that deviate from the core tenets of orthodox Christian
doctrine as outlined in the Bible.

Biblical Wisdom on Cultism

There have always been false teachers—in Old Testament times, in New
Testament times, and today. Christians want to know that what they believe
about God is right and true. The seed of heresy grows when we go to sources
outside the Bible to find ultimate truth. This can start with simple ―innocent‖
objections such as:
“But our culture teaches us that . . .”
“But we live in a different world now . . .”
“But surely God would not object to this . . .”
“But there are good people who practice this . . .”
When we think we have discovered a new truth, but it contradicts the Bible,
we have strayed into heresy.
The passage from 1st Timothy 4:1-2 is part of a letter written by the Apostle
Paul to Timothy, who was a young Christian leader and a companion of Paul.
This letter, known as 1st Timothy, provides guidance and instructions for
Timothy in his pastoral role. In the specific verses you mentioned, Paul is
warning Timothy about future challenges and apostasy within the Christian
community.

Key Points:
Prophetic Warning: The opening phrase, "The Spirit clearly says," suggests a
prophetic utterance or revelation, emphasizing the divine nature of the
warning. This prophecy foretells a time when some individuals will depart
from the true Christian faith.

Abandonment of Faith: The prophecy predicts that, in later times, there will
be those who abandon the faith. This departure is not due to a lack of
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knowledge but is linked to deceptive influences, specifically "deceiving
spirits" and teachings inspired by demons.

Source of False Teachings: The false teachings are attributed to "hypocritical

liars" whose consciences have been seared. This vivid imagery suggests a state
of moral insensitivity, where individuals are spreading falsehoods with a
callous disregard for the truth.
The warning in 1Timothy 4:1-2 underscores the serious nature of these
heresies, linking them to deceptive spiritual influences and the actions of
dishonest individuals.
The passage highlights the importance of discernment and vigilance within the
Christian community to recognize and resist teachings that could lead believers
astray. It emphasizes the need for spiritual leaders, like Timothy, to guard the
flock against false doctrines and maintain the purity of the Christian faith

Factors Contributing to the Rise of Cults and Heresies in Kenya

1. High levels of poverty and social inequality: Desperate individuals

may seek solace and hope in religious groups that promise prosperity
or spiritual fulfillment.

2. Limited access to education and critical thinking: Lack of

education can make individuals more susceptible to manipulation and
control by cult leaders.

3. Strong religious traditions: Kenya's deep-rooted religious beliefs can

provide a fertile ground for cults to exploit existing faith systems.

4. Charismatic leadership: Cult leaders often possess charismatic

personalities and persuasive abilities, attracting followers through their
charisma and promises.

Notable Cases of Cults and Heresies in Kenya

Several cults and heresies have gained notoriety in Kenya, including:

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The Church of God, also known as Kanitha wa Ngai: This group prohibited
members from using modern medicine, leading to the deaths of several
children due to preventable illnesses.

The Good News International Church: Led by Paul Nthenge Mackenzie,

this cult was accused of forced fasting, child abuse, and mass deaths.

The Young Blud Saints: This cult targeted university students, encouraging
them to sever ties with their families and engage in extreme self-denial.

DAY TWO
Heresies and cult of the 21st century.

a. Materialism or prosperity gospel.

Definition: A religious belief that emphasizes material wealth and prosperity
as a sign of God's favor and a reward for faith.
Key characteristics:
Focus on earthly wealth: Prosperity gospel preachers often equate financial
success with spiritual well-being and God's blessings.
Conflation of faith and prosperity: They might teach that giving money to
the church or following specific practices will lead to automatic financial
blessings.
Criticism for promoting materialism and exploiting followers: Critics
argue that prosperity gospel prioritizes wealth over spiritual growth and can
prey on vulnerable people seeking financial solutions.
Examples: Some televangelists, certain mega-churches
Comparisons:
Similarities:
Both heresies/cults and prosperity gospel can:
Deviate from core religious teachings: They might reinterpret scriptures or
doctrines to fit their specific agendas.
Be manipulative and controlling: Leaders might exploit followers'
vulnerabilities for personal gain or power.
Focus on earthly rewards: They might emphasize material benefits (wealth,
status) as signs of spiritual favor.
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Differences:
Scope: Heresies/cults are broader deviations from established religion, while
prosperity gospel stays within a specific religious framework.
Focus: Heresies/cults often have wider theological differences, while
prosperity gospel primarily emphasizes material wealth.
Control: Cults are typically more controlling, while prosperity gospel
churches might be more open.
Overall:
Both heresies/cults and prosperity gospel can be harmful and exploitative.
While they differ in specific beliefs and practices, both can prioritize personal
gain over genuine spiritual growth and manipulate followers for their own
ends.
It's important to approach any religious teaching with a critical mind,
evaluating its claims against established religious doctrines and its potential for
manipulation or exploitation

b. Asceticism-practice of extreme denial.

Rejection of mainstream religious practices: Heretics often viewed
established rituals and hierarchies as indulgent and distracting from true
spiritual attainment. They might engage in extreme self-denial as a way to
bypass the need for external validation, seeking a direct connection with the
divine through rigorous personal discipline.
Mortification of the flesh: Some heretical sects saw the body as a prison for
the soul, corrupted by sin and worldly desires. They might practice self-
flagellation, starvation, or isolation to weaken the body and elevate the spirit.
Secret rituals and forbidden knowledge: The pursuit of hidden truths or
forbidden knowledge could lead to unorthodox ascetic practices. Imagine
heretical cults performing dangerous rituals in remote locations, pushing the
boundaries of human endurance to unlock arcane secrets.
Asceticism as a tool of control: Charismatic leaders and manipulation: In
some cults, extreme asceticism is used as a tool for control. Leaders might
demand absolute obedience and punish any deviation, creating a climate of
fear and dependence. Followers might willingly subject themselves to hardship
to gain the leader's favor or achieve a sense of belonging.
Exploitation and vulnerability: Ascetic practices can be physically and
mentally damaging, leaving individuals vulnerable to manipulation and
exploitation. Cults might prey on this vulnerability, extracting labor or even
financial resources from their devoted followers.
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The line between devotion and danger:
Exploring the gray areas: Not all heretical asceticism is harmful. Some
individuals might find genuine spiritual fulfillment through rigorous self-
denial, even if their practices diverge from mainstream norms. The line
between devotion and danger becomes blurry, prompting ethical questions
about personal autonomy and the potential for manipulation.
Finding the balance: Perhaps the most interesting aspect lies in exploring
how individuals and communities navigate the complexities of asceticism.
How do they balance spiritual with physical and mental well-being? Can
extreme practices coexist with compassion and ethical treatment of others?

c. Mysticism-the practice of religious ecstasies.

Mysticism, the pursuit of direct communion with the divine through
contemplation and meditation, often leads to altered states of consciousness
known as ecstasies.
Mysticism is the practice of seeking direct communion with God or ultimate
reality. Mystics often engage in practices such as prayer, meditation, and
contemplation in order to achieve this goal.
Religious ecstasies are intense emotional and spiritual experiences that are
often reported by mystics. They can involve feelings of love, joy, peace, and
unity with God. Ecstasies can also be accompanied by physical symptoms such
as trembling, sweating, and tears.

These intense experiences can manifest as overwhelming joy, visions, feelings

of unity with the divine, and even physical phenomena like levitation or
glossolalia (speaking in tongues).

Heretical Mysticism: Challenging the Status Quo

When mystical practices and experiences deviate from established religious

doctrines, they can be labeled heretical. This can occur for various reasons:

Emphasis on individual experience over institutional authority: Heretics

might prioritize their own ecstatic revelations over the teachings of established
religious figures.
Non-normative interpretations of scripture: Mystical insights can lead to
unconventional interpretations of scripture, challenging traditional dogma.

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Incorporation of forbidden practices: Some mystical paths might involve
rituals or techniques deemed heretical by the dominant religion.

Examples of heretical mystical movements include:

Early Christian Gnostics: They believed in direct access to hidden gnosis

(knowledge) through ecstatic experiences, often contradicting established
Christian doctrines.
Medieval Christian mystics: Some, like Hildegard of Bingen, experienced
visions and revelations that challenged the male-dominated church hierarchy.

Cults and Mysticism: A Symbiotic Dance

Cults often exploit the allure of ecstatic experiences to attract and control
followers. They might:

Manipulate vulnerable individuals: Leaders might use mystical experiences

to claim special authority or insight, demanding obedience.
Frame deviance as divine revelation: Practices or beliefs deemed heretical
by mainstream religions are reinterpreted as signs of closeness to the divine.
Create closed communities: Isolation and control over information can
intensify and distort mystical experiences, fostering dependence on the cult
leader.

Infamous examples include:

Aum Shinrikyo: This Japanese cult used apocalyptic prophecies and altered
states of consciousness to justify violence and control members.
Branch Davidians: Led by David Koresh, who claimed divine revelations,
they engaged in a deadly siege with authorities.
Heaven's Gate: This cult believed in mass suicide as a way to reach a higher
level of existence.

Navigating the Murky Waters: Discernment and Compassion

Distinguishing between genuine mystical experiences and manipulative tactics

within heretical or cultic contexts requires critical thinking and compassion.
Here are some key considerations:

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Fruits, not roots: Evaluate the long-term impact of the practices. Do they lead
to personal growth, ethical behavior, and positive contributions to society, or
do they foster isolation, fear, and harm?
Individual autonomy vs. control: Does the path empower individuals to seek
their own truth, or does it demand blind obedience and suppress dissent?

Critical engagement with scripture and tradition: While personal revelation

is valuable, healthy mysticism remains grounded in dialogue with established
wisdom, not in opposition to it.
Remember, mystical experiences can be transformative, but they are not
inherently heretical or cultic. The true danger lies in manipulation,
exploitation, and the suppression of critical thought. By approaching these
phenomena with discernment and compassion, we can navigate the complex
intersection of heresy, cult, and mysticism, seeking genuine spiritual growth
while safeguarding individual freedom and societal well-being.

d. Eschatological and prophetic heresies.

Eschatological beliefs focus on the end times or last days, while prophetic ones
involve predictions about the future.
Here are some examples of heretical and cultic movements with eschatological
or prophetic leanings in Kenya:
Stored Food Cults: These groups stockpile food and supplies, believing in an
imminent apocalypse or societal collapse. They often isolate themselves from
mainstream society and interpret biblical passages literally, leading to extreme
interpretations of end times.
Miracle Healing Churches: Promising divine interventions and cures, these
churches can exploit vulnerable individuals seeking hope. They may engage in
unorthodox practices like faith healings or rituals, blurring the lines between
religious expression and potential harm.
Prosperity Gospel Groups: Focusing on material wealth and success as signs
of God's favor, these groups can manipulate followers into excessive financial
giving or engage in exploitative practices. Their teachings often contradict
traditional Christian values of compassion and social justice.

New Prophetic Movements: These groups claim to receive direct revelations

from God, often predicting specific events or catastrophes. They can create
panic and division within communities, especially when their predictions fail
to materialize
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Luo Nyakalaga: This movement emerged in the early 20th century, blending
Christian and Luo beliefs. They rejected Western missionaries and emphasized
purification rituals and prophecies of a coming Luo messiah.
Dini ya Msambwa: Founded in the 1920s, this sect rejected European
clothing and embraced traditional practices like female circumcision. They
also believed in a coming prophet who would usher in a golden age.
Legion of Christ the King: This controversial group gained notoriety in the
1990s for its strict discipline and apocalyptic pronouncements. They claimed
to receive messages from the Virgin Mary and prepared for an imminent
societal collapse.

e. Legalism.
Legalism is the strict adherence to the letter of the law.
The Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) is a Christian millenarian rebel group
that has been active in Uganda, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the
Congo, and Central African Republic since the early 1980s. The LRA believes
that Joseph Kony is a spirit prophet and the chosen one to establish a new
Acholi nation based on the Ten Commandments. The group has been accused
of numerous human rights abuses, including mass kidnappings, forced child
soldiery, and mutilation.

The Mungiki is a Kikuyu supremacist organization that emerged in Kenya in

the 1990s. The Mungiki believe in a strict interpretation of Kikuyu traditional
law and customs, and they often use violence to enforce their beliefs. The
group has been involved in extortion, land disputes, and ethnic clashes.

f. Messiah ship-any claim to be Christ such as Yesu wa tongareni,

Legio Maria, Jehovah Wanyonyi.

The emergence of religious movements claiming messianic figures or

unorthodox interpretations of existing faiths is not uncommon throughout
history and across cultures. Kenya, with its rich tapestry of religious beliefs,
has also witnessed its share of such movements.

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Messianic Claims:
Yesu wa Tongareni: This movement, founded in the early 20th century,
centered around John Mbiti Masinde, who claimed to be the reincarnation of
Jesus Christ. It attracted followers disillusioned with colonial rule and offered
a blend of Christian and traditional beliefs. While facing criticism for its
unorthodox views, the movement also promoted social reforms and self-
reliance.
Legio Maria: The church's founder, Lodvikus Simeo Melkio Ondeto, claimed
to be the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. This claim is considered heretical by
many Christians. Simeo Ondeto, the founder of Legio Maria, was a
charismatic figure who claimed to have visions from the Virgin Mary. He was
considered to be infallible by his followers, and he had absolute authority over
the church.
Jehovah Wanyonyi:
Jehovah Wanyonyi was the founder of the Lost Israelites Church, a syncretic
religious movement that combines elements of Christianity, traditional African
beliefs, and Luo culture. Wanyonyi was born in 1930 in the village of
Chemoroch, Kenya. He claimed to have received a vision from God in 1963,
in which he was told that he was the chosen one to lead the people of Kenya to
salvation
Wanyonyi died in 2015, but his church continues to exist. It is now led by
Eliabu Masinde, who claims to be Wanyonyi's successor.

Contextualizing the Phenomenon:

Socio-economic factors: Poverty, inequality, and political turmoil can create

fertile ground for seeking alternative belief systems that promise solace,
empowerment, or a sense of belonging.
Critique of established religions: These movements can sometimes arise as a
reaction to perceived hypocrisy or disconnect within existing religious
structures, offering a more direct or personalized connection to the divine.

Cultural influences: Blending traditional beliefs and practices with Christian

or other external influences can lead to unique interpretations and messianic
claims.
Cults and heresies have been a persistent issue in Kenya, with several groups
gaining notoriety for their controversial beliefs and practices. These groups
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often exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly those facing poverty,
illiteracy, or personal struggles.

Here are signs someone might be in a cult:

1. They have more trust in their pastor or religious leader than

anything else. You will see them worshiping their religious leader,
calling him names such as The Mighty Prophet of the Lord, Daddy,
Mummy, and Mtumishi among others.
2. They are ready to do anything that the “Man of God” tells them.
They are ready to die to defend him/her.
3. They pray over anything and everything. Did you know that there
are men/women out there who pray before having sex with their
partners? Imagine being in the mood and all of a sudden your partner
breaks into prayers and speaking in tongues ―blessing the act‖ before
you can ―get into it.‖
4. They become religiously notorious to the point of being
unreasonable. There are people who eat, breathe, and sleep religion
and you will never tell them anything. To them, any voice that is of
contrary opinion belongs to the Devil, Shetani Mchafu.
5. They dedicate their kids “to the Lord.” The moment you see a
parent taking their kids to church and saying that they have ―dedicated
them to the Lord,‖ and start forcing them to dress in a certain way,
memorize verses and pray over things they don’t understand, it is a
cult.
6. They become stupid. They stop going to work, they stop going to the
hospital, they start fasting, they start speaking things that do not make
sense, and they become overzealous and believe that they are about to
go to heaven.

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DAY THREE
How to identify cults and heresies
1ST John 4:1,
1. New set or addition scripture
2. Extremist belief/Denial of core doctrine
3. Denial of grace
4. Claim to be a remnant church
5. Claim to possess new truth or new revelation
6. Veneration of a single individual usually its founder
7. Thought control/Brainwashing
8. Food regulations
9. Special attire/Uniform
10. Isolation-Excludes members from family and friend

How Might We Identify Heresy?

Today, many different churches in Africa teach a wide variety of doctrines and
practices. How can we know which ones are right and true? How can we know
if a particular church is teaching heresy?

The Truth from the Bible

The sinless life of Jesus, who was both God and human, and his death, burial
and resurrection are at the heart of the gospel.

1. If any teaching denies we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus

Christ’s death and resurrection, it is heresy.
2. If any requirement other than repentance and faith is added to
Jesus’ work in relation to our salvation, it is heresy.
3. If someone teaches that a spiritual gift or blessing can be bought,
earned, or bartered, that is heresy (Acts 8:18-21).
4. Seeking help from dead relatives in our times of difficulty,
especially with charms or sacrifices, shows we have a heretical
understanding of life after death (Isaiah 8:19).
5. Encouraging retaliation or revenge based upon Scriptures is
heresy because it is based upon a misunderstanding of the
teachings of Jesus.
6. Confusing reincarnation with the resurrection is heresy.
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 7. If a teacher seems to desire fame, power, control over people, or
wealth more than living a life of humble submission to God, be on
guard for heresy.
8. If a teaching causes dissension and division among believers, it
should be examined for heresy
9. Any teaching that questions the reality of the life, death, and
resurrection of Jesus is heresy.
10. But, if a teaching is contrary to the Bible as interpreted by the
historically accepted fundamental doctrines of the Christian
church, it is probably heresy.

Warning signs
To prevent the spread of cultism in Kenya, it is essential to be vigilant and
look out for warning signs. These include:

1. Sudden changes in behavior or appearance of young people.

2. The decline in academic or work performance.
3. Isolation from family and friends.
4. Possession of weapons or involvement in illegal activities.
5. Recruitment of young people by unknown individuals or groups.
6. Disregard for authority and social norms.
7. Lack of Responsibility of the Government.

How To Avoid Falling Into Heresy

How can we keep ourselves from falling into heresy? The best way is to know
the truth! God has revealed his truth to us in the Bible. David tells us to hide
God’s Word in our hearts so that we can keep from sinning against him (Psalm
119:11). The book of Acts gives us the example of the Bereans who ―searched
the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth‖
(Acts 17:11).

1. We must regularly read and study the Bible to keep our beliefs and
behaviour in line with God’s thoughts
2. That means we must regularly read and study the Bible to keep our
beliefs and behaviour in line with God’s thoughts.

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 3. In addition, we can also read Christian literature to help us better
understand what the church has taught throughout its history.
4. Also, we can talk with trusted Christian leaders when we have
questions.
5. Many Africans tend to be spiritually sensitive people. Often we
experience dreams, visions, inner voices and other spiritual
communications. But we must build our beliefs on what the Bible
says, not on personal experiences.
6. Any spiritual communication must be carefully compared to the
teachings of the Bible. The Bible must always be accepted as supreme
truth.

Solutions and the Way Forward

To combat the menace of cultism in Kenya, a multi-faceted approach is
required. This includes:

1. Education: There is a need to educate young people about the dangers

of cultism and provide them with alternatives that can lead to positive
outcomes. This can be achieved through school programs, community
outreach, and social media campaigns.
2. Family Support: Parents and guardians should provide emotional
support and guidance to their children. They should also monitor their
children’s behavior and seek help when necessary.
3. Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies should be well-
equipped and trained to detect and prevent cult activities. There should
be a special task force dedicated to investigating and prosecuting cult
crimes.
4. Rehabilitation: Cult members who renounce their membership should
be provided with counseling and rehabilitation services to help them
reintegrate into society.
5. Interfaith Dialogue: Religious leaders should engage in interfaith
dialogue to promote understanding and tolerance among different
religious groups. This can help to reduce the use of religion as a cover
for cult activities.

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 6. Collaboration: There should be collaboration among government
agencies, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the media
to address the problem of cultism. This can help to create a more
coordinated and effective response to the issue.
7. Accountability: There should be accountability for government
officials who fail to take action against cult activities. Civil society
organizations should also hold businesses and individuals who support
cults accountable.
8. Public awareness campaigns: Government agencies, NGOs, and
religious organizations are raising awareness about the dangers of
cults and heresies.
9. Community engagement: Efforts are being made to strengthen
community support systems and empower individuals to resist cult
recruitment.
10. Legal reforms: Discussions are ongoing to explore potential legal
frameworks to regulate religious groups and protect individuals from
cult exploitation.

New Testament Heresies

Apollinarism
Apollinarism was a Christian heresy named after Apollinaris of Laodicea, a
Syrian bishop who taught in the late 4th century. Apollinaris believed that
Christ had a human body but not a human mind or soul. He argued that
Christ's mind and soul were replaced by the divine Logos, or Word of God.
Apollinarism was condemned as a heresy by the Council of Rome in 393 AD.
Arianism
Arianism was a Christian heresy named after Arius, a presbyter in Alexandria,
Egypt, who taught in the early 4th century. Arius believed that Christ was a
creature of God, but not of the same substance as God the Father. He argued
that Christ was subordinate to the Father and not eternal. Arianism was
condemned as a heresy by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
Docetism;
Docetism was a Christian heresy that taught that Christ's body was not real,
but only an appearance. Docetists believed that Christ was only divine and that

17
he did not suffer or die on the cross. Docetism was condemned as a heresy by
the early Church fathers.
Nestorianism;
Nestorianism was a Christian heresy named after Nestorius, the Patriarch of
Constantinople, who taught in the early 5th century. Nestorius believed that
Christ was two persons, one divine and one human. He argued that the two
natures of Christ were not united in one person, but were only united in a
moral or ethical sense. Nestorianism was condemned as a heresy by the
Council of Ephesus in 431 AD.
Others wrongly taught that the Trinity did not exist (Patripassianism and
Sabellianism).
Patripassianism;
Patripassianism, also known as Monarchianism, is the belief that God the
Father suffered on the cross as Jesus Christ. This view is based on a literal
interpretation of passages such as Isaiah 53:10, which says that "the LORD
laid upon him the iniquity of us all." Patripassians argue that if God laid our
sins on himself, then he must have also suffered our punishment.
Sabellianism;
Sabellianism, also known as Modalistic Monarchianism, is the belief that God
is one person who manifests himself in three different modes or operations:
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This view is based on a metaphorical
interpretation of passages such as John 14:10, which says that "the Father who
dwells in me he does his works." Sabellians argue that the Father, Son, and
Holy Spirit are not distinct persons, but rather three different ways in which
God reveals himself to us
Gnosticism; (Acts 4:12 Colossians 2:8-23; 1 Timothy 1:3-4) and John 1 John
1:1-2; 2:22-23; 5:1)
Argue against views like Gnosticism.
Still others falsely led people to believe that humans were created by a lesser
god, that we are only spiritual souls trapped in a physical world, and that
anything material is evil.
Marcionism;
One group rejected the Old Testament
Pelagianism;
Pelagius incorrectly taught that Adam and Eve’s sin did not give the rest of
humanity a sin nature, and that each person could choose to be good without
God’s help
Unfortunately, these same heresies tend to appear from time to time today,
even in Africa.
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Antinomianism (Romans 6:1-2, see also Galatians 5:13-14).
The heresy opposite legalism is antinomianism. Simply stated, this is the idea
that because of God’s grace and his unlimited forgiveness, we can behave how
we wish. There are no laws or restraints. This heresy is a rejection of morality,
including God’s laws.
Legalism Galatians 1:6-7; see also Galatians 2:4 and Galatians 5:1-12
Galatians 2:14
The first is legalism, which is an attempt to earn salvation by obeying laws and
doing good, frequently through religious activities and rituals. In the early
church, this view was promoted primarily by people who were sometimes
called ―Judaizers‖ because they tried ―to make these Gentiles follow Jewish
traditions‖

Heresy, Confessions and Creeds

To protect Christians from heresies, the apostles and their disciples prepared
summaries of the basic Christian doctrines. In 1 Corinthians 15:2-8, Paul
summarised those doctrines that are ―most important‖ – that Christ died for our
sins, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day, and more. Later,
church leaders developed what they called ―The Rule of Faith‖ or ―The Canon
of Truth.‖ Creeds followed, such as the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed.
To protect Christians from heresies, the apostles and their disciples prepared
summaries of the basic Christian doctrines
Thankfully, throughout history God has provided the church with leaders who
have fought against false teaching. The early church leaders met in Jerusalem
to decide if followers of Jesus must obey Jewish laws and customs (Acts 15).
They stood against legalism.
God also used church fathers such as Ignatius (Syria), Irenaeus (Asia Minor),
Justin Martyr (Judea), Polycarp (Asia), Tertullian (Tunisia) and Athanasius
(Egypt) to defend the doctrines of the church.

Believers can have differences of opinion such as Paul and Barnabas had (Acts
15:36-41).
―All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to
make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong
and teaches us to do what is right‖ (2 Timothy 3:16).
God warns that teachers of heresy will experience ―sudden destruction‖ and
that they are doomed to the ―blackest darkness‖ (2 Peter 2:17). The Bible’s
warning to them should also be a warning to us. It should stimulate us to

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know, love, accept and defend the truth as found in God’s Word (2
Thessalonians 2:10).

Conclusion
Church doctrine is built on a strong foundation over centuries. Any teaching
that proclaims to be new, deeper, more comprehensive, or more spiritual than
previous biblical knowledge probably contains an element of heresy.
If you want to discover if a teaching is heresy, study the teaching and compare
it with the Bible and the great statements of Christian doctrine.
Most heretical teaching is not really new. Compare questionable teaching to
heresies of the past to see if it should be rejected. Heretics will eventually be
exposed by their actions and desires.

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1. 2 Peter 2:1
2. 1 John 4:1
3. Galatians 1:7
4. 2 John 1:10
5. 2 John 1:11 2 Peter 2:15 1 Peter 2:1
6. 1 Samuel 15:23
7. 1 Corinthians 11:19
8. 1 Corinthians 11:19
9. Galatians 5:19-21
10. 2 Peter 2:1-3 ,Deuteronomy 13:1-5 -
11. Romans 8:7 –

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https://sokodirectory.com/2023/04/the-menace-of-cultism-in-kenya-
understanding-its-roots-effects-and-sol

Prosperity gospel | Definition, Preachers, History, Theology, & Criticism |

Britannica

5 Critical Errors of the Prosperity Gospel - Christ and Culture (sebts.edu)

What Is Heresy? // Africa Study Bible - TGC Africa (thegospelcoalition.org)

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