The Drift Into Deception

by Agnes C. Lawless and John W. Lawless

Reflecting on their own experiences, the Lawlesses identify eight common characteristics of Christian groups that begin with a biblical ministry but drift into heresy. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0825431638
• ISBN13: 9780825431630
• Release Date: August 1995
• Publisher: Kregel Publications
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.5" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Avoid the drift into Deception

This is a must read book. Having read this book several years ago, it serves well to review it. The book warns believers that aberrant teachings can have a cult-like effect on a church and their members. The Author gives details of their personal encounter and heartbreaking experience when their Church drifted into aberrant teachings. The Authors define an aberrant Christian group as: "We may define an aberrant group as one which emerged from orthodox, mainstream Christianity, but differs from it in belief and practices in one or more essential ways. The word aberrant means "straying from the right or normal way; deviating from the usual or natural type." An aberrant Christian group, then , is neither a cult nor an evangelical organization." (from pg. 50) They further go on to show some examples of groups that started out well in traditional evangelical Christianity and then somewhere along the way the leaders drifted into aberrant beliefs, and then progressed into heretical beliefs and practices, as well as the flock that follows them. there are 2 excellent lists given in the book, one that describes the teachings, and another on the 'common characteristics', that gives these 8 warning signs of an aberrant group:" Charisma and pride, Anger and intimidation, Greed and fraud, Immorality, Enslaving authoritarian structure, Exclusivity, Demands loyality and honor, 'New extra biblical revelations' (page 54 -55) And also a section that shows some may use prophecy as a substitute for sound biblical teachings. At the end of each chapter are questions for study and discussion of what was covered in the chapter. There are times when a person may need to consider leaving a Church, and this book gives examples of that excellently, and gives practical instruction on how to find a good Church. Appreciated was the warnings given on (pg. 173) in finding a Church: 'Sometimes we don't see the real fruit of an individual until we're involved, and that takes time, observation, and evaluation." Discernment for every believer, is not an option but is a command from Scripture (1 Thess 5:21). It is important to Stand Firm in our Faith and not get discouraged, and to continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:17,18), regardless of the circumstances we may go through. If you should find yourself in this situation, this book is very helpful.