Rating: 
Summary: The Kingdom of the Cults and Responses from Cultists
Review: "raptor_lll" from Spokane, Wa, in his November 30, 2003 "review" of Martin's work, which he derisively called "Kingdom of the Lies," contains some problematic statements. The presen writer considers it doubtful if Martin's work was actually read by "raptorv_lll" but the statements he makes should be addressed for the sake of honesty."raptorv_lll" asserts, "First of all (according to the dictionary) "cult" means "organized religion", so I am proud to say that I belong to a cult." Out of the gate his passion in defending Mormonism is made apparent, including taking umbrage with the use of the word "cult" and its alluded misuse by Martin (and therefore by scores of other Christian and secular cult researchers). "The dictionary" ("the" dictionary?) defines *cult* in a number of ways, and one respected dictionary, the Merriam-Webster dictionary, offers as one of its definitions for "cult" as "3: a religion regarded as unorthodox or spurious; also : its body of adherents." This definition -- from a widely used and well regarded dictionary of American English -- is in full accord with the standard usage as so used by recognized cult researchers. And yes, as "raptor_lll" admitted, he is a member of a cult group. "raptor_lll" continued, "Second, as a actual member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints, I am qualified to say that some things said about us are COMPLETELY UNTRUE ( such saying that Jesus is a polygamist and was married to Mary and Martha.)" Either out of ignorance of his own religion's teachings or out of a desire to lie in order to protect the true teachings of Mormonism from popular exposure, the fact remains that the *official Mormon "scriptures"* fully confirm Martin's citing (and scores of other cult researchers specializing in Mormonism) that the Mormon "jesus" most certainly is clearly presented as a polygamist that was married to "the Marys and Martha, whereby he could see his seed before he was crucified" (Mormon apostle Orson Hyde, *Journal of Discourses*, vol. 4), pp. 259-260. The Mormon *Journal of Discourses* is considered *inspired* by the Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and takes authoritative precedence over the Holy Bible to that organization. This could be greatly expanded, but the point is that *reviews* should be based upon persons that actually *read* the reviewed book in question. Moreover, members of cults so critiqued in this standard work are by definition going to take great exception to their organization's deceptive practices and misleading doctrines being exposed. Read *the Kingdom of the Cults* for yourself, and take the time to compare its source notes with the primary source materials of the various cultic groups it surveys. The honest readers will see that it offers a reasoned, documented and critical examination of the religious organizations it covers.
Rating:
Summary: The Kingdom of the Cults and Responses from Cultists
Review: "raptor_lll" from Spokane, Wa, in his November 30, 2003 "review" of Martin's work, which he derisively called "Kingdom of the Lies," contains some problematic statements. The presen writer considers it doubtful if Martin's work was actually read by "raptorv_lll" but the statements he makes should be addressed for the sake of honesty. "raptorv_lll" asserts, "First of all (according to the dictionary) "cult" means "organized religion", so I am proud to say that I belong to a cult." Out of the gate his passion in defending Mormonism is made apparent, including taking umbrage with the use of the word "cult" and its alluded misuse by Martin (and therefore by scores of other Christian and secular cult researchers). "The dictionary" ("the" dictionary?) defines *cult* in a number of ways, and one respected dictionary, the Merriam-Webster dictionary, offers as one of its definitions for "cult" as "3: a religion regarded as unorthodox or spurious; also : its body of adherents." This definition -- from a widely used and well regarded dictionary of American English -- is in full accord with the standard usage as so used by recognized cult researchers. And yes, as "raptor_lll" admitted, he is a member of a cult group. "raptor_lll" continued, "Second, as a actual member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints, I am qualified to say that some things said about us are COMPLETELY UNTRUE ( such saying that Jesus is a polygamist and was married to Mary and Martha.)" Either out of ignorance of his own religion's teachings or out of a desire to lie in order to protect the true teachings of Mormonism from popular exposure, the fact remains that the *official Mormon "scriptures"* fully confirm Martin's citing (and scores of other cult researchers specializing in Mormonism) that the Mormon "jesus" most certainly is clearly presented as a polygamist that was married to "the Marys and Martha, whereby he could see his seed before he was crucified" (Mormon apostle Orson Hyde, *Journal of Discourses*, vol. 4), pp. 259-260. The Mormon *Journal of Discourses* is considered *inspired* by the Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and takes authoritative precedence over the Holy Bible to that organization. This could be greatly expanded, but the point is that *reviews* should be based upon persons that actually *read* the reviewed book in question. Moreover, members of cults so critiqued in this standard work are by definition going to take great exception to their organization's deceptive practices and misleading doctrines being exposed. Read *the Kingdom of the Cults* for yourself, and take the time to compare its source notes with the primary source materials of the various cultic groups it surveys. The honest readers will see that it offers a reasoned, documented and critical examination of the religious organizations it covers.
Rating: 
Summary: This Christian diatribe against other religions is a joke~!
Review: 'Kingdom of the Cults' was written by a right wing Christian--talk about a cult--who knows nothing about many of the cults he writes about. Inf fact, he lumps many religions in with real cults and doesn't know much about them either. Skip this boring, tedious, unhelpful piece of drivel.
Rating: 
Summary: Good section about Armstrongism
Review: Add me in the list of those who believe it is the duty and responsibility of Christianity to decipher true doctrine from false doctrine. By so doing, it does not make one intolerant or an ignorant fundamentalist. Truth, in circumstances like these must have a definate override of sensitivity and feel-goodism. Actually for those who cry for "tolerance and love" do the most harm indeed. The late Walter Martin knew he had a responsibility and followed through on it by writing this book. As one who grew up in the Worldwide Church of God, I feel I can say that he does an excellent job in exposing doctrinal errors that was made in that cult. Later editions gladly praise the church's move to orthodoxy and rightly declares that the splinters who hold to Armstrongism, are "all cults indeed." I would like to make one reference to the WCG's parent church, the Church of God (Seventh Day). It does state that the CG7 is "non-trinitarian" (it has a binitarian position) but there are trinitarians in the group and it is rumoured that its Conference President Whaid Rose (which I had the distinct pleasure of meeting) is one of them. It is my hope and prayer that Whaid Rose will make the CG7 have an "official" trinitarian position. If one is still into Armstrongism, they need to get a Bible, the Kingdom of the Cults and see that the doctrines of what Herbert W. Armstrong, just don't add up.
Rating:
Summary: Powerfully Researched, Updated Analysis
Review: Anyone engaged in something more than a casual interest in apologetics will discover an incredible value in Walter Martin's classic "The Kingdom of the Cults." This updated edition is similar in structure as earlier editions, but fairly acknowledges major changes in theology and activity in various religious groups. Intended for the thinking Christian and the open-minded nonChristian, Martin's book has continually challenged people to rely on Scripture for their theology. This is an unusual book in that it is neither an evangelical or fundamentalism critique of those who disagree, but a deeper look at the histories, documents, arguments at groups in opposition to orthodoxy. I first read this skeptically, but was impressed by the immense research by Martin and his team of editors. There is a dual functionality to "The Kingdom of the Cults." Not only does it explain the distinctives of groups such as the Jehovah Witnesses and the Church of the Latter Day Saints, but in doing so, it teaches Scriptural fundamentals of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, and provides direction for testing our own faith with the Bible. Martin's exposure of what the groups themselves are claiming will disturb many within the group as they discover the truth. He is quick to grant the strengths of a group, but points them to Scripture to make their own comparisons (as opposed to relying on Martin's views). He prefers the reader to think for himself, not content to depend on his book, or any other book but the Bible. This balance is rare in Christian literature, and a value in reading "The Kingdom of the Cults." Martin provides a meaty analysis of all the major groups, as well as primary lines of thought within Protestant perspectives, and Roman Catholicism. Beyond specific groups, there is plenty of coverage of the general critical analysis on topics like mind control, apocalyptic cults, the impact of cults on the mission field, Eastern religions, and language and psychological issues. He is sure to point out a group's popularity (like the fast growing LDS and Islam sects) doesn't make it truth, truth is not democratic. Martin is bold to use the groups' own literature rather than hearsay, to prove his points. This has stirred controversy among those such as Muslim students, LDS laity and JW leadership who have not known of the difficult history of their church. He leaves room for the vagaries often existing when dependent on secondary sources. This edition includes substantial portions of the refutations and other dialogues, providing the reader an idea of the response from the cult's leadership. Sadly, it shows that though the book is quickly disputed, none take Martin to task. In many cases, they agree, but are uncomfortable at the label 'cult.' The bibliography is 27 pp strong, organized by topic and group. This is in addition to the 12-page Scripture Index. "The Kingdom of the Cults" includes an appendix of several groups. For example, the Worldwide Church of God's full acceptance of the Trinity is explained, as well as the foundation for this significant move in their theology. "The Kingdom of the Cults" also criticizes the Word of Faith movement. It is careful to show what this movement believes, and how it is not simply Pentecostalism under another name. "The Kingdom of the Cults" emphasizes "there are many sincere, born again believers within the movement" (Hank Hanagraaff). I recommend "The Kingdom of the Cults" enthusiastically. Buy it, and read it contemplatively and compassionately as you discover what your neighbor might believe. Anthony Trendl
Rating:
Summary: If you are interested in combatting Christian Cults
Review: As a person whose chosen missionary field is combatting Christian Cults I found that this book was incredible. Not only did it give tons of bibical expanation and references, it helped me better understand my own faith in the truth of the Bible. The manner in which Martin introduces himself as the author of the book I found a little uncomfortable for me at first. But after reading his work I realized that it was appropriate and unbiased. I highly recommend this book to anyone caught up in one of the cults he addresses as well as those who want to know more about them.
Rating:
Summary: Jesus Christ, which one?
Review: Bottom line, if you have a distorted view of who Jesus Christ is you are lost. Those are not my words, they are his words. So I will call Jesus Christ the most narrow-minded person in history because he said: (I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6)
Most people will admit that we are sinners by nature and Jesus Christ is the only religious leader that says he takes away sin. Not Buddha or anyone else, so without Jesus Christ you will die in your sins.(John 8:24)
As Christians it's our job to point out errors that are made by groups or people that call them self Christians, with love and respect.
Find out what the bible has to say about Jesus, don't listen to what man have to say about who Jesus Christ is, I think that's Dr. Martin's intentions, (heads-up). Read God's word, and not a twisted view of what someone says the bible means. God is faithful to help you understand Him and his word. Deception is all around us, so be careful.
With Love,
Chip
chip_norton@yahoo.com
Rating:
Summary: Kingdom of the Lies
Review: First of all (according to the dictionary) "cult" means "organized religion", so I am proud to say that I belong to a cult. Second, as a actual member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints, I am qualified to say that some things said about us are COMPLETELY UNTRUE ( such saying that Jesus is a polygamist and was married to Mary and Martha.) If the book makes such easily refutable claims ( go ahead, go to any official Church site, or the Scriptures and see if you can find that) a religion that is that well known, what lies is it spreading about the others?
Rating:
Summary: If only there were a "0 Star Review" option!
Review: For the sake of honesty, I will start by disclosing the fact that the only section of "The Kingdom of the Cults" which I have read is the section treat--or, rather, mistreating--The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (popularly called "Mormonism," "The Mormon Church," etc.). But, if I may say so, a study of this section alone was enough to reveal how grossly inaccurate and poorly researched this book is. I will indicate but three random examples, in the interest of brevity. (1) The non-existent "first draft" of the Solomon Spaulding manuscript. Like so many anti-mormons before him, Walter Martin jumps on the Spaulding Manuscript bandwagon, suggesting that Joseph Smith gathered ideas and concepts for the Book of Mormon out of some "first draft" of the Solomon Spaulding manuscript. Unfortunately, for the anti-mormon crowd (Martin included), this alleged "first draft" has never been discovered. What's more, no one, not even the most "scholarly" anti-mormons to date have been able to suggest how such a first draft of the manuscript might have come into the possession of Joseph Smith, even assuming it existed. (2) The very old "no horses before Columbus" argument (which even Parley P. Pratt shot down in his day). Martin seeks to refute the Book of Mormon on the grounds that there were no horses in America prior the the disembarkment of Columbus and his men on the continent. This argument, however, is pathetically frail. In a famous excavation in Mayapan, Yucatan, bones were discovered, and soon positively identified as being horse bones. The archaeologist determined them to be of pre-Columbian origin. The bones were "considered to be pre-Columbian on the basis of depth of burial and degree of mineralization." (See, Clayton E. Ray, "Pre-Columbian Horses from Yucatan," Journal of Mammalogy 38 [1957]:278. See also, Pollock and Ray, "Notes on Vertebrate Animal Remains from Mayapan," Current Reports 41 (August 1957) 638 (Carnegie Inst. Washington, DC, Dept of Archaeology). (3) Vilifying the Smith family. Martin endeavors to tarnish the image of the Smith family, stating--quite incorrectly--that, "There exists no contemporary pro Mormon statements from reliable and informed sources who knew the Smith family and Joseph intimately". In other words, he asserts that anyone closely familiar with the Smith family had nothing positive to say concerning them. This is shown to be false in that numerous contemporary pro-Mormon statements were made by those who knew the Smith family, even their non-Mormon associates! Orlando Saunders, a neighbor of the Smiths, once told an interviewer that the Smiths "...were very good people. Young Joe (as we called him then), has worked for me, and he was a good worker; they all were . . . . He was always a gentleman when about my place." (See Richard Lloyd Anderson, "Joseph Smith's New York Reputation Reappraised," Brigham Young University Studies 10 (Spring 1970); p. 309.) A Mrs. Palmer, who lived near the Smiths as a girl, said that the Smith family "was one of the best in that locality--honest, religious and industrious, but poor. The father of the family was above the average in intelligence. I have heard my parents say that he bore the appearance of having descended from royalty. . . . My Father loved young Joseph Smith and often hired him to work with his boys. I remember going into the field on an afternoon to play in the corn rows while my brothers worked. When evening came, I was too tired to walk home and cried because my brothers refused to carry me. Joseph lifted me to his shoulder, and with his arm thrown across my feet to steady me, and my arm about his neck, he carried me to our home." (See Hyrum Andrus, They Knew the Prophet, Salt Lake City, Bookcraft, 1974, pp. 1-2.) On the whole, Walter Martin's Mormon-bashing section has about as much credibility as an article in the tabloid newspapers at your grocery check-out stand.
Rating:
Summary: Very Good!
Review: Great book to have on your bookshelf. Goes into great detail explaining the origins, founders, doctrines, and many other foundational principles modern day cults are established upon... If you want to know more about cults or just to have something there to quickly go to, I recommend this book...
| 
