Anyone
engaged in something more than a casual interest in apologetics will discover
an incredible value in Walter Martin's classic "The Kingdom of the Cults."
This updated edition is similar in structure as earlier editions, but fairly acknowledges
major changes in theology and activity in various religious groups. Intended for
the thinking Christian and the open-minded nonChristian, Martin's book has continually
challenged people to rely on Scripture for their theology.
This is an unusual
book in that it is neither an evangelical or fundamentalist critique of those
who disagree, but a deeper look at the histories, documents, arguments at groups
in opposition to orthodoxy. I first read this skeptically, but was impressed by
the immense research by Martin and his team of editors.
There
is a dual functionality to "The Kingdom of the Cults." Not only does
it explain the distinctives of groups such as the Jehovah Witnesses and the Church
of the Latter Day Saints, but in doing so, it teaches Scriptural fundamentals
of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, and provides direction for testing our own
faith with the Bible. Martin's exposure of what the groups themselves are claiming
will disturb many within the group as they discover the truth. He is quick to
grant the strengths of a group, but points them to Scripture to make their own
comparisons (as opposed to relying on Martin's views). He prefers the reader to
think for himself, not content to depend on his book, or any other book but the
Bible. This balance is rare in Christian literature, and a value in reading "The
Kingdom of the Cults."
Martin
provides a meaty analysis of all the major groups, as well as primary lines of
thought within Protestant perspectives, and Roman Catholicism. Beyond specific
groups, there is plenty of coverage of the general critical analysis on topics
like mind control, apocalyptic cults, the impact of cults on the mission field,
Eastern religions, and language and psychological issues.
He
is sure to point out a group's popularity (like the fast growing LDS and Islamic
sects) doesn't make it truth, truth is not democratic.
Martin
is bold to use the groups' own literature rather than hearsay, to prove his points.
This has stirred controversy among those such as Muslim students, LDS laity and
JW leadership who have not known of the difficult history of their church. He
leaves room for the vagaries often existing when dependent on secondary sources.
This
edition includes substantial portions of the refutations and other dialogues,
providing the reader an idea of the response from the cult's leadership. Sadly,
it shows that though the book is quickly disputed, none take Martin to task. In
many cases, they agree, but are uncomfortable at the label 'cult.'
The
bibliography is 27 pp strong, organized by topic and group. This is in addition
to the 12-page Scripture Index.
"The
Kingdom of the Cults" includes an appendix of several groups. For example,
the Worldwide Church of God's full acceptance of the Trinity is explained, as
well as the foundation for this significant move in their theology.
"The
Kingdom of the Cults" also criticizes the Word of Faith movement. It is careful
to show what this movement believes, and how it is not simply Pentecostalism under
another name. "The Kingdom of the Cults" emphasizes "there are
many sincere, born again believers within the movement" (Hank Hanagraff).
I
recommend "The Kingdom of the Cults" enthusiastically. Buy it, and read
it contemplatively and compassionately as you discover what your neighbor might
believe.
Anthony
Trendl
editor, HungarianBookstore.com
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