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I don't necessarily think it's due to the fear of thinking for themselves, but more the fact that the priest, reverends, rabbi, etc are people that can relate to on a physical level, while God and/or Gods are spiritual beings. I also think that it is because most spiritual leaders are very charismatic individuals and pull people in who are looking for guidance, leadership and hope.
Do you think that people glorify the words of their specifically "chosen" pastors, preachers, priests etc, more than they do God?
If so, do you think it's because people are scared to think for themselves due to fear of going against the "chosen" leader?
Could be the case in some instances. Thinking for yourself is a HUGE step for those who are accustomed to being told what to do, think, believe, say...
Who knows how many of them sputter in and out of existence every day?
My point is, if you think those people are cult members, then practically everything must be a cult. People everywhere, no matter the topic, (religion/politics/whatever) are too fearful to think for themselves. Whether it's out of fear of going against a leader (like a religious leader) or for fear of going OUTSIDE THE BOX.
On addressing religious oppression within churches, can be addressed as man's personnel views with normal or abnormal values, beliefs, and doings of society. I believe everyone is entitled to his or her own interpretation of preferred religious text ie: old testament, new testament, king james, american standard bible, new international standard, ect. The labeling of a church as a cult has a negetive connotation, meaning a group is expressing deviant behavior or worship practices. As an example with David Koresh, Jim Jones, Marshall Applewhite and others who were leaders of a congregation that instilled their views or opinions as some form of rule, and the only way, could be seen as an abnormal practice with brainwashing or extreme mind control purpose.
I think so, yes. I would say those people are cult-members.
The difference between religion and a cult?
membership numbers
tax exempt status
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Addressing religious oppression within the church
