God is always concerned for his people. The very act of Christ coming to Earth to die as a ransom for our sins is testimony of how much God loves and cares for us. Christians are required (not asked) to reflect Gods' unconditional and unrelenting love for all people. It is extremely important to remember this when dealing with people involved in cults. Though deceived, God considers these people tremendously important. Here are the basics of how cults are formed and operate.
Mormon devotion is for their founder, Joseph Smith. Jehovah's Witnesses hold C.T. Russell in high esteem. Scientologist's look to L.Ron Hubbard. Whether it is the founder or a present day leader, cult groups consistently pledge allegiance to one man. This is perhaps the most obvious characteristic of a cult group. Churches can even slip into the cult bracket as they worship there pastor and esteem him above God. The danger of this is obvious. Following an entire belief system of one man's revelation is walking on thin ice.
They knock on doors, perform unique rituals, and live lives heavily based on rules and regulations. On the surface, it appears as if cult groups lead very spiritual and devout lives. Most of it is a show. The fact is that most people in cult groups spend their entire lives trying to appear spiritual to others. Acts of service and good deeds are not done out of a love for God. They are only done to be shown to others. I wish cult members could understand that we have no righteousness outside of Jesus Christ. God says that our righteous acts are as filthy rags.
Jesus dealt with this same problem during his ministry. They were called the Pharisees. These were the spiritual giants of the time. They adorned themselves in elaborate garments and shouted long-winded prayers on the street corners. Every effort was made to appear more spiritual to others. Meanwhile, their hearts were rotten with sin. Jesus spent more time rebuking the Pharisees then anyone else. Someone may look spiritual and fulfilled on the outside but be warned. Man looks on the outward, God looks at the heart.
This is a simple term used in sales. It is a very crooked practice that involves luring in a potential customer and changing the rules once the deal has been signed. Cult groups use the same tactics. New converts are lured in under a false pretense. Mormons, for example, exhibit a very strong sense of community and family values. The temple rituals, mandatory tithes, holy underwear, absolute obedience to the church are taught only after conversion takes place. Jehovah's witnesses use similar tactics. They will appear to be the perfect solution to you and your family. Become a member and then find out you can't take blood transfusions, celebrate any holidays (yes, even your own birthday) and spend the rest of your life knocking on doors.
My main point is this: If Cult groups explained to potential converts exactly what they believe and all the rules that exist in their belief system, their would be drastically fewer converts. The problem is, all cult groups know this. They want you to get attached and connected before they brainwash you. Once you get comfortable with the initial orientation and get attached emotionally to their specific belief system, you are far more willing to accept even the craziest of notions as a religious obligation.
