Mr. Samples conclusions regarding Roman Catholicism are false as is much of the “criteria”that he uses for determining and defining a “christian” cult. Even where his criteria is correct, his conclusions are incorrect because he fails to apply his own criteria in reaching his conclusion. An example of this can be found in criteria number 2: “ Cults are usually formed, molded, and controlled by a single individual or small group.” A simple examination of Roman Catholic history and official RC doctrine demonstrates that the “popes” and “ongoing magisterium” fit this criteria.
I agree tha the RCC does meet many of the criteria Mr. Samples claimed it does not meet, to be considered a “cult” in the theological sense of the word. If you define “cult” as a group with critical deviation from biblical theology, the RCC qualifies as does the LDS, all the liberal mainline denominations, the Word of Faith, Warrenism, and many other groups.
However, the word “cult” carries the idea of a group that robs its members of the ability to think independently and critically, and/or uses threats of force or financial or familial ruin to keep its members in line. The modern RCC does not do this.