It's been a while since I checked up on this site. I was surprised to see my blog near the top of the page when googling "gracepoint cult". I'm a bit older now, a bit wiser, and my bitterness towards Gracepoint has thankfully simmered down a bit. I wanted to share a couple things that have been on my mind recently in a calmer demeanor than what I posted a year and a half ago.
Is Gracepoint a cult?
Even to this day, I'm not sure. If it's not a cult, then it's pretty close to being one. I've sat through enough sermons to realize that what they preach is actually sound. I don't think I've heard anything that was preached on Sundays that was heretical.
However, the part that rings the alarm is when you start getting more involved. Everything looks good and healthy on the outside, but the inside seems to be rotting. That's the scary part - you usually don't know what you've gotten yourself into until it's too late.
Why are they so effective in what they do?
Let's admit it, Gracepoint is growing. They're planting churches at an alarming rate - even planting churches internationally. They target smart, obedient students. If you take a look at their congregation, it consists of people who you would assume weren't popular in high school. Kind of nerdy, geeky, quiet, awkward, don't really care for clothes, make-up, etc (I'm sorry, this statement sounds extremely judgmental and rude, but I think it's true). These were the kids who studied a lot and got good grades. And these students end up making a ton of money because they all become lawyers, doctors, biotech researchers. Seeing how they are all obedient and legalistic, can you imagine that 10% tithe that comes in every month? This church must be rolling in money!
Money + obedient members = potential world domination?
Would I ever go back to Gracepoint?
No. Maybe for their delicious free food, but that would be the only reason.
