Le Sabot Post-Moderne

CRI's Analysis of the Ezzos

Thought today would be a nice one to mention the Christian Research Institute's analysis of the Ezzo's approach to parenting. Especially interesting is the section entitled, "The question of cultic behavior."

"While some are using the term cult to categorize GFI, in our estimation this is clearly not warranted. Unfortunately, however, GFI's behavior does parallel the characteristics of cults in significant ways, including the following:

1.) Scripture twisting and de facto assertion of extrabiblical revelation. Scripture is often used without regard to context to justify unbiblical or extrabiblical doctrines. Teachings not found in the Bible (on child rearing) are accorded the status of divine revelation ("God's way"). Theological confusion and legalism follow from these abuses.

2.) Authoritarianism. The Ezzos' word on parenting seems to close the matter irrespective of the evidence. . . The Ezzos appear to be unaccountable to anyone outside their own group and to suppress any attempt to question them from within the group.

3.) Exclusivism. The Ezzos are considered virtually the only ones who are teaching biblical truth on their subject. . . In fact, Christian outsiders are sometimes viewed and treated as sub-Christian.

4.) Isolationism. Members of the GFI "community" have been shielded from teachings and opinions contrary to the Ezzo way. Full knowledge of GFI teachings has been withheld until after one becomes involved with the program.

5.) Physical and emotional endangerment. As an unintended but natural consequence of following GFI teachings, babies are sometimes left to cry for hours and some newborns are underfed and underdeveloped. Child development experts -- many of them Christians -- voice concern about the long-term effects of the program on children raised under it."

Posted by Discoshaman at décembre 23, 2003 11:42 PM | TrackBack