There are at times small groups or clans within a church organization start to form cultish thinking and are very difficult to recognize.  The effects it can have on people within and any target can be long reaching and devastating.  This creeps into churches without the pastor even knowing or recognizing it.   And sometime the pastor is a part of it.  Here are some red flags.

• Do you fear one or more members of this click?
• Are they secretive?
• Is there some sort of a ranking system?
• Are some members of this religious group/clan that claim that they are more anointed then others?
• Do you feel at times that you are walking on egg shells around one or more people who have authority within the clan?
• Do you wonder if you are in physical danger?
• Do you worry that your reputation is going to be destroyed?
• Have members used God to shame you in a way that felt like they were on a power trip?
• Are you allowed to have opinions of your own or are you silenced and scrutinized when you have a different opinion?
• Is there subtle scrutiny and shaming going on to a degree that is making one or more people sick?
• They demonize some people while lifting others up as “gods”
• Much like the Salem witch trials they start deciding who is God’s child and who isn’t within the church.  They may even go so far as to claim some members have demons in order maintain power over the individual.
• Have you developed unhealthy soul ties with members?
• Is one member revered as a messiah like figure?  Does this figure have little accountability?
• Do you feel like your identity is wrapped up in their approval of you?
• Is your voice being stifled by someone who claims they are the “truth holder?”
• Are there people within the clan that are self-righteous?

If you recognize that you may be in a situation or within a small group of people that display some of these qualities I would recommend that you start to research spiritual abuse before it’s too late.  I know that some of the individuals in these groups can seem very nice, helpful, charismatic and even display love for God and others.  They may seem like outstanding members of a community.  This can make the decision to leave or have no contact with the group hard, especially if you love the people.  It is important for you to know that God is your ultimate authority and the voice you obey.  What these people have said over you or told you about yourself has little to do with who you are.   The problem with spiritual abuse in particular is that is very hard to detect and very sneaky.  I myself experienced spiritual abuse and oppression and I want you to know that you are not alone.However, in saying this, I also just want to point out how important it is not to throw the baby out with the bath water.  Many Christian circles are full of reasonable and loving people who desire nothing else but to uplift, restore and encourage other believers.