One definition of cult as classified by Anthony Hoekema, Associated Professor of Systematic Theology as stated in 'Confronting the Cults'-Gordon Lewis involves a five point test:
* Extra-Biblical source of authority
* Denial of justification by grace alone
* Devaluation of Christ
* The group as the exclusive community of the saved
* The group`s central role in eschatology
There ya go, tackle your favourite cult and see how they measure up.