These days, the terms cult, secret society, and religion are all so loaded that their meanings are melting down. This agenda doesn t rule out the existence of a merry public face. In fact, a cult may be doing good in one sphere while destroying life and limb on another front. In this book, religion means a group which has a hierarchical power structure leading up to an invisible God. Naturally the God favors the religion which worships Him.
Most religions are secret societies.
They have an agenda which involves controlling their devotees, all their charity-work notwithstanding. Historically, people seek out secret societies and religions and join them to gain freedom from pain and turmoil. People also join because they are forced to. For example, the country they live in leaves no choice. Such was the case in medieval Europe, where the Roman Catholic Church held the wand of dominance.