* Cults keep secrets *have a persecution complex

* believe they are the only ones who have the 'truth'.

* Produce 'clones' - think and dress the same.

1.  A cult believes their group is the only way to Heaven, salvation or enlightenment.   Often the group claims a special revelation.

2.  The group is elitist, claiming it is the only one that has the truth. Members are the 'chosen' people and are spiritually superior to non-members. A 'we alone are right' mentality exists. The group refuses to consider that it might be wrong.

3.  No outside church, especially traditional churches are accepted as valid.

4.  The group has a polarised us-versus-them mentality concerning the rest of society.

5.  The groups unwritten rules and traditions take precedence over the Bible. 6. 

6.  Members who faithfully follow the group's beliefs and traditions are considered to be special, chosen, hearty 'saints.'

7.  Members who fail to remain faithful and leave the group have failed God, will suffer for their decision and will lose any hope of eternal salvation.

8.  Former members are treated with suspicion. Ridicule with patronising sympathy and
     in many cases shunned.

                                         Leadership Characteristics

9.  The group focuses upon a leadership that members appear to be zealous, unquestioning commitment towards.

10. Often the members allegiance is based upon the belief the leadership is, or represents or posses a special anointing form God.

11. The group leadership does not make itself accountable to any authorities.

12. Indiscretions and improper conduct by the leadership are often ignored or covered up.

13. Significant and sometimes total decision making authority rests with the leadership.

14. There are no means by which a member can appeal a decision by the leadership. Followers are not perceived as having any rights. Dissidents are excommunicated.

15. The leadership will impose pressure, or openly dictate, how members should think, act, feel, dress.

16. The leadership is often authoritarian and enforces obedience to the leadership and the group's standard.

17. The leadership may avoid or brush off questions.



                                                    continue...                             Return to contents