The following "Question" was asked by a member of the congregation at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, and "Answered" by their pastor, John MacArthur Jr. It was transcribed by Anjela Paje of Spokane, WA, from the tape, GC 1301-I, titled "Bible Questions and Answers Part 11."  A copy of the tape can be obtained by writing, Word of Grace, P.O. Box 4000, Panorama City, CA 91412 or by dialing toll free 1-800-55-GRACE.  ©1980. All Rights Reserved.

Question

What do you think of Dr. Walter Martin in his book Kingdom of the Cults?

Answer

Well, I think that’s a very good book and a very helpful book in terms of giving direction to a believer and understanding the cults. I think, basically, the book is sound. The research is sound. There is a book that I would suggest to you as an equal to that book, it’s called The Chaos of the Cults, and it’s written by a man named J. K. Van Baalen That’s pretty much a similar book to Martin’s book, but I think, that book Walter Martin did a long time ago...and it had some good substantial research. I think, it’s basically, a pretty good book.

Question (continued)

But he’s a Charismatic.

Answer (continued)

Well, I don’t think that reflects upon his research on the cults because, I think he, in the first place, even the Charismatics love the Lord and study the scripture. They may have a little element that we don’t agree with. But, in many cases...I mean they’re right about the deity of Christ and they’re right about the trinity, and they are right about the doctrine of salvation. They’re right about the heaven and hell and so forth, and, also, they’ve made some good contributions in that area. I will hasten to add, however, that book was written before his association ever with the charismatic situation.

Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "MacArthur’s Questions and Answers" by:

Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
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