Christian Research Institute is an apologetics ministry, dedicated to informing the lay Christian to "give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." I Peter 3:15 KJV.
It was founded in 1960 by the late Dr. Walter Martin, author of a dozen books and booklets such as The Kingdom of the Cults published in 1965, and updated in 1977 and 1985. Dr. Martin held four earned degrees, receiving his doctorate from California Coast University in the field of Comparative Religions. He became nationally known as the host of the syndicated radio call-in show, "The Bible Answer Man."
Its current president is Hank Hanegraaf, host of the still continuing "Bible Answer Man" show and director of CRI. He has authored several books concerning cults, cult-like movements, and unorthodox Christian ministries. His most current books target the 'Word-Faith Movement', and his newest book challenges the standard dispensational view of eschatology, The Apocalypse Code,2007, a reference to Hal Lindsey's best-selling book, Apocalypse Code.
CRI publishes a quarterly magazine with the purpose of equipping the saints to discern aberrant theology, and to be able to witness effectively to 'the cultist at your door." CRI as a whole, is dedicated to fostering a balanced, intelligent dialog to bring these groups to a right relationship with Scripture, and evangelical Christianity. They have met with some success in churches such as Church of God in Christ denomination, in their view of the trinity.
They recently relocated from California to Charlotte, North Carolina, and have a Canadian affiliate as well.