Quote:
Originally Posted by Betsy
If only, but I think that is exactly what they do. A cult leader places himself between Jesus and his people, who must have the one mind of the cult leader and thereby simulate his relationship with Jesus.
Do you think ones relationship with Jesus might be limited when they spend all their time studying someone else's relationship with Jesus?
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Hi! Yes, thank you for saying something- I said that wrong, I do believe unhealthy teachings and practices can limit someone's ability to see and hear truth. There's so much emotional dependance going on and constant reinforcement of the "agenda" that yes, I do believe they're limited in a way.
What I should have said (instead of generalizing it like that) is that I do believe they (for the most part) have a relationship with Jesus. I know my parents did and still do. What I do see is a lot of people having zero opinions about anything in life (possibly an exaggeration for some!) and having a child-like mentality, regardless of education. Apparently it's very common in cult mentality and one of the things that made it all "click" for me. I believe they have as much as a relationship with Jesus as being in thought reform environments will allow. It's really interesting to have relationships with people who were in the church as children/teens but are out now. One of my friends was a "church kid" and they met in their home in CA with their siblings. I love their parents too! Of course, no one is perfect but their kids are far less affected negatively in their spiritual life (so it seems) and I think its because they just weren't exposed to the full dose of it all. I've realized how DIFFERENT a locality like ours was (with a big meeting hall, etc.) compared to their small home group with saints just meeting in homes. I think we all got our "dose" of unhealthy practices and teachings but in my friends case, the small home meetings didn't do nearly the amount of damage that I believe our locality did to the young people. That's kind of a side point but wanted to mention!
But, yes- I do think most saints have a relationship with Jesus but maybe their version of Him and His goals are a bit off. Also, I have to admit that I WANT them to have one, of course I do. I hope it's not wishful thinking! I do remember hearing messages though over verses about having to "have a child-like heart." I really believe that verse can be used to manipulate people when others have an agenda. Although it's true, that should be our attitude towards God, not another person, right? There are just as many verses (it seems to me!) about exercising accountability/wisdom/discernment with love.