How Can I Help My Friend Who’s in a Cult?

Q: One of my friends has turned her back on me, because she’s gotten involved with a group that’s wrapped up in some kind of spirituality, talking about the earth as our mother and things like that. I don’t know if you’d call it a cult, but she doesn’t want anything to do with me because I’m a Christian. How can I help her? — Mrs. A.F.

A: In my experience, people who become involved in cults or other forms of non-Christian spirituality are often very resistant to the Gospel — at least at first.

Why is this? One reason is because they often have a deep spiritual hunger, and for a time they may be convinced they’ve found the answer to it. They also don’t want to admit they might be wrong, and their pride gets in the way. Simply arguing with them seldom accomplishes anything.

What can you do? The most important thing you can do is to pray for her, asking God to open her eyes to the truth and point her to Jesus Christ, who alone can satisfy her spiritual hunger. Remember: God’s Spirit can do what we can’t do, breaking through the deep resistance some people have toward Christ.

Then let your friend know that you care for her and still want to be her friend, in spite of her hostility. It may seem one-sided, but in spite of that, do what you can to keep planting seeds of friendship. At the same time, avoid fruitless arguing, and don’t be misled by her arguments.

Instead, ask God to help you be an example to her of Christ’s love and peace. In time, she may realize that she’s on the wrong road, and she’ll be more open to your witness. The Bible says, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good” (Titus 2:7).

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

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.