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The difference is spiritual vs. physical danger.

Physically, Islam is a greater threat. At least they are honest in their views of us. Spiritually, I agree they are a threat, but not more than Mormonism.

Groups that claim Christianity (Modern day Gnosticism, Mormonism, JW’s etc) yet teach a different Gospel, I consider more of a threat spiritually than even Islam.

Here is why. Islam is straight forward about how they view Jesus, and how they view Christians. Other groups (like those mentioned above) are “wolves in sheeps clothing”.

One of the marks of a Theological cult (not speaking of Anthropological or Sociological definitions here) is the idea of “milk before meat”. That initiates (converts) are only told so much prior to joining. This leads many, who have no Biblical literacy, into a pseudo-Christian group that is harmful. One of my friends likened the methods of the LDS to “spiritual rape”. People join being told one set of things, only to find out many other beliefs/doctrines/practices. The pain of leaving leads many to Atheism (about 50%).

And while the LDS no longer practice blood atonement for those who have left, they do practice “familial atonement”, meaning when one family member leaves they are often shunned.

Quite frankly, I consider Mormonism (with it’s magical garments, handshakes, temple rituals and idea that they alone have “true” knowledge)is very close a modern day Gnostic group.

Thanks for your thoughts. I understand your points, and I do find them interesting and worth reflection. I don't believe that Islam is honest in its views however. Far too often Islam cloaks itself as being respectful of Christianity and portraying itself as the 'religion of peace,' only to show its true colors once it has gained access to Christian communities. It has infiltrated Europe under the guise of multiculturalism and tolerance only to prove intolerant, contemptuous of all other religions, and repressive especially of outward displays of Christianity. Under the name of tolerance, Islam is slowly strangling the public life of the Christian community, a fact which I see as having (if not necessarily so) an impact upon the Christian psyche and faith. It is very much a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

I continue to see Islam as a greater threat than that which you mention, because of its size and militancy and what is an even more dangerous form of the 'familial atonement,' you mention. It works on multiple levels, both political and spiritual, and uses the power of the state. There are millions of people stuck in Muslim countries who will never have the chance to awaken to Christianity much less leave Islam for it to face certain death. As painful as a Mormon leaving his faith may be within his community or family, how much more terrifying is that prospect in Islam, where you can be murdered by your own father in an honor killing; where you can be put to death for mere possession of a Bible? Where Christian slavery and even crucifixion still occur (Sudan)? It is this physical threat that condems the spiritual fate of so many. I hope you can see my point.

I believe reaganaut clarified her point regarding the threat posed by modern gnosticism. But perhaps its more modern manifestations are not as clear to you regarding the full spectrum involved. Today, gnosticism is found under the umbrella of the New Age movement. Practices run the gamut of ‘organized’ gnostic churches to significant components under one of the plethora of NAM groups. Since gnosticism from its general beginning was syncretistic, its current alignment with NAM is understandable as NAM is very flexable and gathers up religious teaching, etc. regardless of actual source.