What practices set cults apart from traditional Christianity?

Cults are marked by their extreme and unorthodox beliefs and practices which are at odds with traditional Christianity. One distinctive feature of cults is that they often have a charismatic leader who is revered as a divine figure and whose word is unquestioned. The group may also be tightly controlled and have strict rules and codes of conduct that members must follow. Cults may reject fundamental Christian doctrines such as the Trinity or the divinity of Jesus, and instead promote ideas that are considered heretical or blasphemous. Finally, many cults engage in abusive and manipulative practices to recruit and retain members, which can be marked by emotional and psychological exploitation, isolation from friends and family outside the cult, and even physical abuse. Overall, cults present a distorted and unorthodox version of Christianity which is marked by a lack of respect for basic ethical and moral standards.

Cults Traditional Christianity Practices Belief System Manipulation