Imagine you survived a cult. Current members approach you with tacit
messages aimed at securing your validation of their present course
and/or kudos from "on high" (as in: are you high?!) for recapturing you.
You care about them (you once recruited them!), and wish they could
break free. You know only they can do that. What would you say? Asking
for a friend.
That's tough. A direct approach will only cause them to be more convinced and make you the bad (wo)man in their mind. You might be able to guide them subtlely if you are careful but it has to be 'their idea.' You will have to pick up the clues if/when they might be receptive to a nudging in another direction. Protect yourself first and foremost.