Have Some Good Probing Questions Ready Ahead of Time for When the Cultist Calls

Preparation will give you the offensive position whereby you can control the flow and direction of the conversation. Remember, he is on your territory and you are in control. Listed below are some suggested questions to help you get started.

   What scholarship and research is the basis for your biblical interpretation?
   What other nationally recognized biblical scholars agree with your scriptural exegesis? ('exegesis' = explanation or interpretation)
   What other sacred writings do you believe in, other than the Bible?
   Who checks out your founder and leader?
   To whom does your leader answer?
   Is your leader accountable and responsible to anyone other than 'God'?
   What authority is your leadership under, other than his/her own?
   What do you see as the essential difference between the doctrine of your group and that of the established church?
   What does your group's theology/philosophy offer me that I do not already have as a Christian?
   Are only the people in your group going to be saved? What do you believe will ultimately happen to me if I reject your group's doctrine?
   Does one have to quit his local church to join your group?
   What is your view of the church today?
   What do you believe a person has to do to have an abundant life here, and be assured of eternal life with God in the life to come?
   Do you feel that your group is the only true preacher or interpreter of the Gospel today?
   Of all of the other religious groups in the world, is your group alone the enlightened one? If not, who are other notable Christian or religious groups that you recognize as also teaching truth and who are equal with you in enlightenment and understanding.
   What is the nature of God?
   Who is the Holy Spirit?
   What is your understanding of sin?
   Do you believe that man is a sinner by nature? If not, what is the explanation for man's current plight? If so, what is the means of atonement (forgiveness) of sin?
   Why do you not believe that Jesus Christ alone is the total answer to your needs and to the needs of the world?