There is often a position of superiority manifested in the actions and words of those in the group towards those who might ask questions or challenge their belief system. The members of the group look down on others outside of their fellowship, stressing that they alone are special and are the only ones with whom God is working. It plays the u s versus them game. Any idea or thought expressed that is contrary to what has been taught by the group is considered an attack on their belief system. Passivity among its members is encouraged under the guise of its being humility .
Uniformity is put in place of unity.
They believe that only members of their special group have forsaken and sacrificed all to follow the Lord. Attendance and involvement in the group's meetings, activities and works are used as a measure of one's faithfulness to God. They live in their own world with their own set of rules and are unwilling to be with anyone who does not abide by these rules. The founder's words are more often quoted than the Scriptures and are often used to clinch a point, being regarded as the convincing proof on the understanding of a topic. The focus is based on the group's system of doctrinal beliefs rather than a personal relationship with Jesus Christ .