In my experience, I have never been controlled or brain washed, although, there have been times that my mind needs a good washing. Over the years, the ICOC has grown and changed as needed, and has seen some bad times, but also some very good times.
The amount of lives that have been changed for the better, through the ICOC or through its benevolent arm, HOPE Worldwide, across the country and around the world has far outweighed the criticism that some give.
So...in my opinion and experience...not a cult. Although, first century Christians were also called a cult, so maybe it's not so bad.
Lets agree to disagree. Is it my turn? :)
I’ve done a LOT of research on the ICOC and seen it first hand with a close relative in a major, and expensive, university. Lost her FULL scholarship and medical degree due to the demands from this group several years ago. I attended a Sunday ‘service’ twice, in different cities. Both were recruiting sessions and not even in churches. The agenda was identical. Are your ‘real’ services still on Wednesdays? Is it 17 steps or is it 19 to convince a college student to join? Still getting your recruits from Universities? Still seems to be the only places you have congregations. Oh, still telling recruits not to trust their parents? That’s a good one.
From the looks of your website, nothing has changed. How many “church” buildings in the U.S. does the ICOC own? Lease? Still just the one in California?
You have your way of believing in Christ and interpreting the Bible. I have mine. They just aren’t compatible in the ways we worship.