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NASB | Matthew 16:15 He *said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 16:15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" |
Bible Question:
What is a cult? Some here on this forum have tried to answer this question. The term “cult” is used loosely by many who may not be fully aware of its connotations. To prevent confusion, some theologians actually avoid using the term. The World Book Encyclopedia explains that “traditionally, the term cult referred to any form of worship or ritual observance.” By that criterion, all religious organizations could be classified as cults. However, in general usage today, the word “cult” has a different meaning. The same encyclopedia notes that “since the mid-1900’s, publicity about cults has altered the meaning of the term. Today, the term is applied to groups that follow a living leader who promotes new and unorthodox doctrines and practices.” Endorsing the popular usage of the term, Newsweek magazine explains that cults “are normally small, fringe groups whose members derive their identity and purpose from a single, charismatic individual.” Similarly, Asiaweek magazine notes that “the term [cult] itself is vague, but it usually denotes a new religious creed built around a charismatic leader, who often proclaims himself to be the personification of God.” The language used in a joint resolution of the 100th Congress of the State of Maryland, U.S.A., also conveys the derogatory connotation of the term cult. The resolution states that “a cult is a group or movement exhibiting excessive devotion to a person or idea and employing unethically manipulative techniques of persuasion and control to advance the goals of its leaders.” Clearly, cults are generally understood to be religious groups with radical views and practices that clash with what is accepted today as normal social behavior. Usually they conduct their religious activities in secrecy. Many of these cultic groups actually isolate themselves in communes. Their devotion to a self-proclaimed human leader is likely to be unconditional and exclusive. Often these leaders boast of having been divinely chosen or even of being themselves divine in nature. Many here on this forum reference Jehovah’s Witnesses as a cult. A number of recent newspaper articles lump the Witnesses with religious groups known for their questionable practices. But would it be accurate to refer to Jehovah’s Witnesses as a small fringe religious group? Cult members often isolate themselves from friends, family, and even society in general. Is that the case with Jehovah’s Witnesses? Are the Witnesses using deceptive and unethical techniques to recruit members? Cult leaders are known to use manipulative methods to control the minds of their followers. Is there any evidence that Jehovah’s Witnesses do this? Is their worship cloaked in secrecy? Are they following and venerating a human leader? Truthfinder |
Bible Answer: Greetings Truthfinder. Perhaps we as a Forum would be wise to practice a "no name or cult calling" postion in our dialogue . . . However, it seems to me that under certain definitions that you have provided, I would qualify as a cult member, for I follow a Living Leader who promotes an unorthodox New Convenant: Grace apart from observance of the Law (I am saved from the righteous wrath of Holy God by the sacrificial death of Jesus as a propitiation for my sin) and the Leader I follow also proclaims Himself to be God! And as for "radical views that clash with what is accepted today as normal social behavior. . . " I am guilty as charged. "Thou shalt not" as well as "thou shall" still prevail for me! I choose not to participate in "socially acceptable" behaviors such as abortion, adultery, homosexuality etc. Does this make me a cult member? It is not clear from your profile who Jesus is to you so using the Word of the Lord, please answer Him: Who do you (Truthfinder) say that I (Jesus) am? mommapbs PS: What exactly IS your question? Are you attempting to establish the JW as a bonafide "denomination" of what most people recognize as "Christianity?" |