Question About Possible Cult (Full Version)

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ClintonPI -> Question About Possible Cult (6/26/2008 4:13:10 PM)

Just moved to a new area and noticed that at the pharmacy down the street there is always a person outside the door with a can for donations. I've only seen men, but they all wear white "uniforms" with red bands on the sleeves and stripes down the leg. The patches on their shoulders say something about a Missionary church of Jesus. I asked one of the guys what religion he was and he said Christian. He didn't seem to like that I was asking and was evasive about further questions. I gave him a gospel tract and went on.

I know cults sometimes wear white medical uniforms to make people think they're looking for donations for medical purposes. Like the ones that used to wear nurses uniforms in airports.

The donation can said it was charity for drug rehabilitation.


So is this legitamate or a cult? And if they're on the up and up then why the white outfits?

Thanks.



PrexicKehdaki -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/26/2008 4:18:43 PM)

I know Mormons tend to use that phrase, "Missionary church of Jesus".



4IMPersuaded -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/26/2008 6:45:00 PM)

Hmmm... Dunno, but it sounds fishy. It could be, though, that the fellow you spoke with was new and afraid to witness to strangers. It is odd that he wouldn't be more open about his church and what they were doing. It seems like he'd want you to know.

All I can say is pray for him and see if you can strike up any more conversations with them as you go by.



earthless -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/26/2008 8:35:06 PM)

Ask him one simple question....

"Who do you say Jesus is?"



ClintonPI -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/26/2008 10:16:04 PM)

I plan on going by there tomorrow and will ask if he'd read he'd read the tract. Then I will ask him who he thinks Jesus is, along with a few other questions, like how do I get to heaven, etc.

I'll give an update when I'm done.



elliemaejune -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/27/2008 12:20:40 AM)

Not a cult, but certainly a scam.

Many years ago, one of the television stations where I lived did an exposé on that group that supposedly took medical donations. Turns out it was a scam.

That's what I'd think. Maybe it's not very charitable of me, but there it is.



SonInMe1 -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/27/2008 7:53:43 AM)

I can't imagine...a christian...on the street asking for donations....would not want to share his faith.

I also believe christians should support christianity...not stand on street corners looking for donations from whomever walks by. Tithes and offerings. Not barter, not street vending, and certainly not begging.



teachered -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/27/2008 11:55:51 PM)

Have you asked anyone in the Pharmacy who the people outside the door represent? Unless you are led by God I would not give them any money.

As far as whether or not they are a cult, I do not think you can tell without knowing their beliefs. If their beliefs are secretive and not in line with the bible, then they are probably a cult.

I pray that God will give you the words to say and the right questions to ask to this man, or person who happens to be out there when you go back.

Blessings



Kath -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/28/2008 2:02:42 AM)

Moving from General Faith to The Church



csl7037 -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/28/2008 7:36:17 AM)

It really could be A. a cult, B. an OK organization but a shy/new person you talked to, or C. a scam. The cynic in me leans toward the scam options without any further info.



1love1God1way -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/28/2008 11:27:35 AM)

Salvation Army?



Kat_D -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (6/28/2008 12:29:39 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliemaejune

Not a cult, but certainly a scam.

Many years ago, one of the television stations where I lived did an exposé on that group that supposedly took medical donations. Turns out it was a scam.


Probably....and if so, they likely have nothing to do with the Christianity and are using the church title as a means to get money out of people.

Ask for written information and ID. A legitimate charity will give you information outlining its mission, how your donation will be distributed, and proof that your contribution is tax-deductible. Many states require "paid fund-raisers" to identify themselves as such and to name the charity for which they're soliciting.

If they won't or can't give this to you, they are a scam.



kimmiejake -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (7/11/2008 1:46:44 AM)

I've seen folks dressed like that in my town. They are often at one particular intersection.

hmmmmmmm



OLEEguacamole -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (7/11/2008 2:26:55 AM)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missionary_Church_of_the_Disciples_of_Jesus_Christ



Eric B -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (7/11/2008 10:40:44 PM)

quote:

Having by some accounts a few thousand adherents and being loosely connected to the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement, the organization's most visible public activity is the solicitation of donations from the public by white-uniformed associates who are stationed outside the exits of various department stores and supermarkets, and other public places.


Another Campbellist sect. While the original churches of Christ are sometimes considered orthodox, most other Campbellist sects are definitely cults. They believe in works-salvation, and claim they are the only true Christians.



brothertodd -> RE: Question About Possible Cult (7/13/2008 12:48:05 AM)

To determin if its a cult, Next time you see him or them ask them about their church, that your looking for a new one, get as much info about their church. Then either go to that church and find out their mission statement (that is a question you could ask one of the guys)
Find out if they accept the attonement on the cross (many dont) are they works based not faith based, their views on the Godhead (trinity) hold what they feel, teach, etc according to the word. If they contradict they are a cult.



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