Gloriavale Christian Community says it is modeled after the first church in Jerusalem.
But the group's beliefs and practices actually mark it as a cult -- both theologically and sociologically.
The group is under increasing media scrutiny as more and more people who have left testify about abuse within the commune.
Many Christians believe that either before, or simultaneously with, the Second Coming of Jesus Christ to earth, believers who have died will be raised from the dead and that they -- together with believers who are still alive -- shall be caught up ('raptured') in the clouds to meet Jesus.
But there is a variety of views regarding the timing of this event.
Theologically the Church of Wells is a cult of Christianity. Its teachings and practices show it to be outside the boundaries of the Christian faith.
Sociologically the church has many cult-like elements as well, to the extent that it should be considered a mind control cult.
Cults of Christianity misinterpret and misuse the Bible in support of doctrines and/or practices which place them outside the boundaries of the Christian faith.
Here are 20 ways that cults twist the teachings of the Bible.
