Abstract:
A theological response to the crisis of cult-related activities in Warri is imminent, considering
the increasing number of young people joining the group on a daily basis. Proverbs 1:8–19
presents important aphorisms from a wise father to his son, emphasising the importance of
avoiding evil company and rejecting the enticement of those who engage in evil behaviour. A
literary analysis of the study text reveals three structures: the call to listen (vv. 8–9), peer
pressure (vv. 10–16), and consequences for evil-doers and partakers of evil (vv. 17–19). The
findings of this study reveal that this thematic analysis forms the basis for young people to join
cults and even dropping out of school to practise cultism. The father in the pericope spoke
wisely, urging his son not to follow the wrong path and join a bad gang, but to follow the right
path that would lead to a happy life, both now and in the future. This study adopted literary
criticism. As a recommendation, it is important to conduct mass sensitisation in schools and
churches, where young people can be informed about the long and short-term consequences
of joining cult groups.
INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : Notwithstanding the father’s
counsel, it depends on the son to be wise or foolish. Parents in Warri would be considered wise
if they are able to warn their children against cultism and not use their cultists’ children to
harass others. Old Testament and Practical Theology were implicated in the study.
