Is the Church Of Christ A cult.?

Question

And why do you have to be Baptized to get to heaven ( according to COC )

Answer 1

I began attending a Church of Christ in the spring. They do not claim affiliation with the United Church of Christ, but were advertised as a group of Bible-only believing Christians so, as a non-denominational Bible-only believing Christian, I went to check it out.

So, far, the only doctrine I haven't agreed with is the one you mention here. I personally, feel that, while baptism is a command, sacrament, etc., it is does not mean the difference bet. salvation or not receiving salvation. I would quickly point to the fact that the thief on the cross was told by Jesus that he would be with Him that very day in paradise. Naturally, we know that the thief did not come down off the cross to be baptized. I firmly believe that baptism is a symbol of being baptised into Christ's death and resurrection--a symbol of our faith and the fact that we have made Jesus Lord of our lives.

As far as being labeled a cult, they do not fit such a definition on any level. They have not adopted the extra-Biblical teachings of some human founder, like the JWs, Mormons, Christian Scientists, etc. have. They do not have another text that they place above or on par with Scripture. And you are allowed to disagree with the pastor, as I have. Furthermore, there is none of the legalism or bondage that is associated with the cults and none of the mind-control, indoctrination techniques going on. All of these things are what constitutes a cult by definition.

EDIT: I forgot to mention a very important Biblical passage that is part of the basis for my disagreement with the doctrine of salvation via baptism. It is 1 Peter 3:21 and it succinctly says that baptism is "not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ". This tells me that: 1. Baptism does not clean us of the sins of the flesh and 2. what cleanses us is Christ. The latter point is, of course, backed up throughout the NT and is, in fact, the basis of our entire gospel message.

Answer 2

Having been a member of the church of Christ for over 20 years, I appreciate Simon Peter's response; especially about the cult issue. I would disagree, naturally, with his comments on the baptism issue. According to the Bible, a person must be cleansed of their sin in order to go to heaven. Sin is washed away by baptism and the Bible never states an alternative method so it seems logical that baptism is essential. I would also like to elaborate on his 'pastor' statement. He undoubtedly refers to the minister who is not actually the pastor. The pastors (the Bible also calls them elders, bishops, overseers, and shepherds) are responsible for the welfare of the congregation but usually employ a minister to preach. But SP's point is still well taken...a member can disagree with the minister or any of the elders based on their maturity and understanding of the scriptures. Even so, all members of a congregation should prayerfully follow the eldership as they have the congregation's best interest in mind. When an eldership starts to lead outside the boundaries set by the Bible, no member is required to follow and is responsible to God to help redirect the eldership in the ways of the Lord; which would answer your cult question.

Answer 3

A cult is normally secretive and has practices that are secretive or mysterious. Also, they are very possessive about membership, not permitting people to leave

The Church of Christ in the United States is very much un-secretive. In theory they only practice what is in the Bible, so their doctrine is not secretive. As well, they remove members for not obeying the Bible. Therefore, they cannot be called a cult by any reasonable definition

Regarding baptism, it is in the Bible that you must be baptized to be saved

Mark 16:16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved;
1 Peter 3:21 There is also an antitype which now saves us--baptism
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Since you asked "why do you need to be baptized", there are explanations in the Bible as to the purpose of Baptism:
1. It emerses you symbolically into the death, burial and resurrection of Christ
Romans 6:3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
2. It removes your sins (because it symolizes Christs blood)
Acts 22:16 'And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'
3. It puts you into Christ, and all of the blessings in Christ
Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

I believe that the Catholic church also teaches the need for baptism, although within the RCC they practice infant sprinkling, and the Church of Christ practices full emersion of a believer (see Matthew 3)

Answer 4

I guess it depends on your definition of Cult.
However, that doesnt change the fact that God is the creator and king of this world.
Baptism is symbolic of washing your sins and starting anew. Going through the symbolic motions of Baptism is a good way to start a life as a Christian, however, like I said, its symbolic. True baptism happens in your heart when you accept Jesus as your lord and savior.
Good Luck and God Bless

Answer 5

The only difference between a religion and a cult is the amount of members

Answer 6

Honestly? Anything can be reffered to, or called a "cult" by somebody, or any group of people...this doesn't mean that it truly is...but you can say it is if you want...but, truthfully? "NOT!" "Peace!" (where do some of these get their information?)

Answer 7

all religions are like cults

Answer 8

No. It is a way of life. God loves you!