Members sometimes learn to disregard worldly possessions and may take on an ascetic lifestyle. The leader reinterprets the Scriptures and often claims to be a prophet if not the messiah. Often the group is strict, sometimes using physical punishments such as paddling and birching, especially on children. Members are encouraged to spend a great deal of time proselytizing. Often the group is armed and meets in secret with coded language, handshakes, and other ritualized practices.
Members consider themselves an elite cadre ready to go to battle.