What makes Mormonism a cult?

[Madea]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Nope, never said none of that. ;D

 

[Grey Colson]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

You don't have to cut and paste...just research it to your satisfaction. I'm not asking anyone to take my word for anything. It's just what I believe. I don't try to run out and convert Mormons or anyone else. But when people ask me what I think, they need to be ready for me to tell them.

 

[Whoa Willie]

I'm just curious and I thought I would throw this out for discussion - I know a few Mormon families and I have even worked with attorneys who are Mormons, but I've never understood why a lot of Christians call Mormonism a cult. They believe that Jesus is the Son of God just as we do, so why do you think it's a cult?

Cause people are stupid and afraid and scared of what they dont know...?

You might be right and may have stepped on a few toes!! )

Not mine!!!

 

[LisaC]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

You don't have to cut and paste...just research it to your satisfaction. I'm not asking anyone to take my word for anything. It's just what I believe. I don't try to run out and convert Mormons or anyone else. But when people ask me what I think, they need to be ready for me to tell them.

But see, this isn't a "cut and paste" question - I want to know individual answers and why someone PERSONALLY thinks that it's a cult. My personal belief is that it isn't, but that is based on my personal interaction with people of the Mormon faith - I don't proclaim to know a lot about the depths of their teachings. However, my church teaches differently and says that it is a cult. And, when churches teach that, a lot of members tend to accept it as truth (and it may very well be).

There is no wrong answer to my question - I'm just looking at it as an opportunity to learn. )

 

[deewee]

I'm just curious and I thought I would throw this out for discussion - I know a few Mormon families and I have even worked with attorneys who are Mormons, but I've never understood why a lot of Christians call Mormonism a cult. They believe that Jesus is the Son of God just as we do, so why do you think it's a cult?

Cause people are stupid and afraid and scared of what they dont know...?

You might be right and may have stepped on a few toes!! )

Not mine.

 

[Sadie612]

some of youins make it hard to read these long butt comments on my lil contraption of an iphone.. lol

anyway Jesus Loves me and I love him... Y'all have a good day and be blessed in it also try being a blessing to someone else today( that is your greatest testimony right there)

 

[deewee]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

I believe Mormonism is wrong because I did some study on it years ago, on my own, at 14 yrs old. My pastor didn't tell me, my family didn't tell me...I found it on my own. I had lots of questions about different faith systems then. Instead of just telling me what to believe, my dad simply gave me every book I asked for and let me study it on my own. He wanted me to believe what I believed because I had found the truth for myself, not because anyone told me how to believe.

Anyone can make a positive impact on anyone else, but that doesn't mean that the person making the impact is a child of God.
One does have to do intense scrutiny to see some glaring differences between the doctrine they teach, to surmise that their theology is not in line with the word of God on many things.

 

[deewee]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

You don't have to cut and paste...just research it to your satisfaction. I'm not asking anyone to take my word for anything. It's just what I believe. I don't try to run out and convert Mormons or anyone else. But when people ask me what I think, they need to be ready for me to tell them.

I agree with this. If anyone, ever, says anything to you concerning the bible and you have questions (or are unsure) about what you've been told...the best way to get your answers is to do the research yourself. Pray about it, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you in your study (as the Holy Spirit is a far better teacher than any man) and search it out.

 

[LisaC]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Anyone can make a positive impact on anyone else, but that doesn't mean that the person making the impact is a child of God.
One does have to do intense scrutiny to see some glaring differences between the doctrine they teach, to surmise that their theology is not in line with the word of God on many things.

Okay, bear with me here, I'm not trying to beat you over the head, but I want to know more (and I'm not trying to be pushy or convince you to change your mind, I really just want to know). Tell me to back off if it comes across the wrong way...

The doctrine of other Christian faiths are also different but they're still considered Christian. Fox had a good point when he mentioned Episcopalians allowing gay priests. Some Baptists believe that drinking alcohol is a sin. Catholics seek intercession from Mary, the Mother of Jesus (I hope I said that correctly) - that's not in the Bible...

 

[LisaC]

some of youins make it hard to read these long butt comments on my lil contraption of an iphone.. lol

anyway Jesus Loves me and I love him... Y'all have a good day and be blessed in it also try being a blessing to someone else today( that is your greatest testimony right there)

I've already decided that you're a member of a cult... :taunt

 

[deewee]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Anyone can make a positive impact on anyone else, but that doesn't mean that the person making the impact is a child of God.
One does have to do intense scrutiny to see some glaring differences between the doctrine they teach, to surmise that their theology is not in line with the word of God on many things.

Okay, bear with me here, I'm not trying to beat you over the head, but I want to know more (and I'm not trying to be pushy or convince you to change your mind, I really just want to know). Tell me to back off if it comes across the wrong way...

The doctrine of other Christian faiths are also different but they're still considered Christian. Fox had a good point when he mentioned Episcopalians allowing gay priests. Some Baptists believe that drinking alcohol is a sin. Catholics seek intercession from Mary, the Mother of Jesus (I hope I said that correctly) - that's not in the Bible...

This is why I do not strictly follow the teachings of any "church". I simply follow Christ. If something is wrong with what I'm being told, I trust the Holy Spirit to show me the truth. I don't feel the need to follow a label such as Baptist, Methodist..or whatever. I think man gets a lot of things wrong and is best off firmly knowing the fundamental truths and then allowing Jesus to lead us to the right body of believers for us to congregate with. And He will.

 

[LisaC]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Anyone can make a positive impact on anyone else, but that doesn't mean that the person making the impact is a child of God.
One does have to do intense scrutiny to see some glaring differences between the doctrine they teach, to surmise that their theology is not in line with the word of God on many things.

Okay, bear with me here, I'm not trying to beat you over the head, but I want to know more (and I'm not trying to be pushy or convince you to change your mind, I really just want to know). Tell me to back off if it comes across the wrong way...

The doctrine of other Christian faiths are also different but they're still considered Christian. Fox had a good point when he mentioned Episcopalians allowing gay priests. Some Baptists believe that drinking alcohol is a sin. Catholics seek intercession from Mary, the Mother of Jesus (I hope I said that correctly) - that's not in the Bible...

This is why I do not strictly follow the teachings of any "church". I simply follow Christ. If something is wrong with what I'm being told, I trust the Holy Spirit to show me the truth. I don't feel the need to follow a label such as Baptist, Methodist..or whatever. I think man gets a lot of things wrong and is best off firmly knowing the fundamental truths and then allowing Jesus to lead us to the right body of believers for us to congregate with. And He will.

But does that contradict your belief as to whether or not Mormons are a cult? They do share some of our fundamental truths. Perhaps Jesus led them to where they are?

 

[I'm Floored]

I don't have time (on a Friday) to type all that I'd like to here.

Bottom line is a "cult" is any religion that allows salvation through any other path than faith in Jesus Christ. (This definition being what is taught in Christian churches.)

Mormons have many beliefs that stray from Christian beliefs (God was actually a man elevated, Jesus was not God Himself, but born out of a physical relationship between God & Mary, salvation comes through works, etc.) It's not just the "out there" things that some have heard of.

Without salvation through Christ, they are lost. We need to pray for their souls. They are not "cultish" in the manner of knowing better and choosing to deceive others - they are truly deceived themselves. The indoctrination is strong, and conversion is difficult. But God is mighty, and He loves each of them as much as He loves us!

 

[deewee]

I don't have time (on a Friday) to type all that I'd like to here.

Bottom line is a "cult" is any religion that allows salvation through any other path than faith in Jesus Christ. (This definition being what is taught in Christian churches.)

Mormons have many beliefs that stray from Christian beliefs (God was actually a man elevated, Jesus was not God Himself, but born out of a physical relationship between God & Mary, salvation comes through works, etc.) It's not just the "out there" things that some have heard of.

Without salvation through Christ, they are lost. We need to pray for their souls. They are not "cultish" in the manner of knowing better and choosing to deceive others - they are truly deceived themselves. The indoctrination is strong, and conversion is difficult. But God is mighty, and He loves each of them as much as He loves us!

I agree with this.

 

[mei lan]

I don't think of Mormonism as being a cult. They may have doctrine that differs from various Christian denominations, but that doesn't necessarily make them a cult. Doctrine differs in many ways between all the Christian denominations. The Episcopal church now allows gays to be priests. Does that make the Episcopal church a cult?

All I know is Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior and I view any person who has accepted Christ as such is my brother or sister in Christ. Not one Christian is any better than another as we all sin.

:thumbsup

 

[deewee]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Anyone can make a positive impact on anyone else, but that doesn't mean that the person making the impact is a child of God.
One does have to do intense scrutiny to see some glaring differences between the doctrine they teach, to surmise that their theology is not in line with the word of God on many things.

Okay, bear with me here, I'm not trying to beat you over the head, but I want to know more (and I'm not trying to be pushy or convince you to change your mind, I really just want to know). Tell me to back off if it comes across the wrong way...

The doctrine of other Christian faiths are also different but they're still considered Christian. Fox had a good point when he mentioned Episcopalians allowing gay priests. Some Baptists believe that drinking alcohol is a sin. Catholics seek intercession from Mary, the Mother of Jesus (I hope I said that correctly) - that's not in the Bible...

This is why I do not strictly follow the teachings of any "church". I simply follow Christ. If something is wrong with what I'm being told, I trust the Holy Spirit to show me the truth. I don't feel the need to follow a label such as Baptist, Methodist..or whatever. I think man gets a lot of things wrong and is best off firmly knowing the fundamental truths and then allowing Jesus to lead us to the right body of believers for us to congregate with. And He will.

But does that contradict your belief as to whether or not Mormons are a cult? They do share some of our fundamental truths. Perhaps Jesus led them to where they are?

I do not believe Jesus would lead anyone to a church body that teaches anything that doesn't line up with the bible.

 

[Papi]

So, since Mormonism is different and most people don't understand it, it's a cult? I could cut and paste all sorts of stuff, but I'm wondering about each of y'all's personal beliefs. Why do YOU think Mormonism is a cult? Because your pastor said so or some other reason? Again, I'm willing to confess that our church declares that Mormons are a cult, but I don't know why. Every single Mormon I have met has always left a positive impact on me (well, except for the hubby of a former boss that cheated on his wife with another Mormon woman, but that's another story). So, I'm curious.

And, just to show that I'm not throwing stones at the Mormons, I'm starting another thread about the Baptists... ;D

Because of South Park. :laugh


http://www.southparkstudios.com/full-episodes/s07e12-all-about-mormons

 

[Waski_the_Squirrel]

I don't see Mormons, Hindus, or other religions as cults. But this question did open up something for me to consider: I don't have a rigorous definition for the term "cult". Non-Christian does not equate to "cult". In fact, there are certain Christian groups that might fit my weak definition for "cult".

I found this checklist helpful.

One of the key parts of a cult is that it punishes or shuns those who leave. It should also rely on the charisma of a particular leader. There may be mind control and brainwashing. Key to the brainwashing is that cult members close themselves off from others and make cult members part of their socializing and, as much as possible, work. They usually have an "us versus them" mentality.

As I said, has crept into some Christian churches.

 

[deewee]

I don't see Mormons, Hindus, or other religions as cults. But this question did open up something for me to consider: I don't have a rigorous definition for the term "cult". Non-Christian does not equate to "cult". In fact, there are certain Christian groups that might fit my weak definition for "cult".

I found this checklist helpful.

One of the key parts of a cult is that it punishes or shuns those who leave. It should also rely on the charisma of a particular leader. There may be mind control and brainwashing. Key to the brainwashing is that cult members close themselves off from others and make cult members part of their socializing and, as much as possible, work. They usually have an "us versus them" mentality.

As I said, has crept into some Christian churches.

I belonged to a church where one of the newest members was previously a Mormon. He was shunned and threatened by his family & friends from his Mormon church. His wife even took the keys to his car & gave them to the preacher at the Mormon church, in hopes he'd go see the man for his keys and get re-converted. His children stopped talking to him. Members of our church would pick him up and take him to work, and bring him to church. I left while all of that was going on, so I've no clue how things worked out for him.

 

[unionmom]

Y'all are using a religious based definition of cult, I take it. The English definition of it is not the same.