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Is the
International Church of Christ a cult?
The answer to the question, "Is the International
Church of Christ a cult?" depends on the definition of what makes a group a
cult. The definition of a cult that CARM uses is a group that may or may not
include the Bible in its set of authoritative scriptures. If it does
include the Bible and it deviates from biblical doctrines sufficient
to make salvation of no effect, then it is a cult. However, it
is possible to have a truly Christian group that has cult like
tendencies, such as the exercise of an abnormal amount of control over its people. This control may be centered
around theological or social particulars. It is this issue of excessive
control that to the international Church of Christ is known for.
Add to this an exclusive attitude that it is the only true Church, it
is no one wonder that the ICC has been labeled a cult by many
people. Therefore, it is possible to have a
Christian Church with cultic practices and still have it be, technically,
Christian and aberrant.
Additionally, the doctrines that make Christianity
"Christian" are the Trinity, the deity of Christ and the Holy Spirit,
the physical resurrection of Jesus, and salvation by grace. There can be
deviations within Christianity on other issues such as the mode of baptism,
frequency of communion, when the rapture will happen, etc. Usually, it is these
sorts of non-essential issues which cause denominational splits.
The International Church of Christ (ICC), does not deny
any of the essential doctrines of Christianity. Aside from its requirements on
baptism as a necessary part of salvation, it is Orthodox. Therefore, I do not
categorize the ICC as a non-Christian cult. Rather, I see the ICC as a Christian
Church with some serious problems; namely, legalistic and excessive control over
its members.
I recommend that people avoid this group.
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Church of Christ
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