[Rq-rules] spirit cults versus religion

[Paul Cardwell]

Cult is more a sociological (and criminalogical) than
theological term.  It usually involves an infallible
living leader, social (if not physical) isolation,
unquestionable dogma, total control over all of life,
etc.

The terms I think the question is looking for are sect
and denomination - both are religions (as, for that
matter, are most cults).

One of my seminary professors used the definition
given him by a clergy lamenting that his sect was
becoming a denomination, "A sect has more people at
worship than it has member on the roll, while a
denomination is the opposite."  I suppose someone
might nit-pick and find an exception, but it has
always been a good working definition for me.

Paul Cardwell


 
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