My son joined a motorcycle club that he says is ingrained in the word of God, but they take him away from his family. I feel this is a cult because they hang out with the Hell’s Angels and the Outlaws and other ruthless gangs. Now he is vowing to continue the brotherhood. Can you explain what a cult is?
I can certainly understand your concerns about your son being involved in a motorcycle club. There are some motorcycle groups that are based upon Christian principles, such as Bikers For Christ, CMA (Christian Motorcyclists Association), Soldiers For Jesus MC, etc. I can’t vouch for any of these associations because I have never been involved with any of them personally, but their charters define themselves as Christian groups.
Groups such as the Hell’s Angels and the Outlaws are notorious for being involved in drugs and violence. Their histories show there must be total dedication to the club to be a member. One article I read states that to join the Hell’s Angels, “You must be absolutely passionate about the lifestyle, there will not be much free time for other activities outside of the club, so hold off on signing up at the yacht club.” I can’t speak personally about these associations because I have never been involved with any of these, either.
For the believer, there must be scripture led discernment about who we associate ourselves with. This could be with a motorcycle club or with even a benevolent association. We must be careful about our relationships. 2 Corinthians 6:14 says, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” As believers, we should not partner with groups and people that are not Christians. To join with a group of non-believers means that we must find common ground other than Christ, Himself. This can be so detrimental to our spiritual health and testimony.
As difficult as it may be, Christians must separate themselves from those things or people that do not follow the Lord. This does not mean that we should not seek to win them for Christ, but we should not join with groups or people when that will associate us with those who live in opposition to the Words of Christ. 2 Corinthians 6:17 instructs us, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” We should always show the love to God to everyone. We should be willing to sacrifice our time, talents, and money for the sake of winning souls to Christ. However, we should not join ourselves with those who are not following after Christ.
You stated that your son says that this group he is with is ingrained with the Word of God. I suggest that you attend some of the meetings with your son to see if this is true. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that they are a group of Christians. Perhaps they allow other groups to attend their meetings so that they might share the love of God with them. Neither you nor I can brand this group as a cult unless we have much more information about them. I appreciate your love and concern about your son. Become more involved with what he is involved with until you can make a proper decision about their spirituality. Perhaps he does spend too much time with them. Lovingly remind him of his responsibility to his family and encourage him to spend his time more wisely. (385.6)