Another Gospel: Cults, Alternative Religions, and the New Age Movement - Paperback

by Ruth A. Tucker (Author)

A comprehensive survey of major alternative religions in the United States, including new groups since the 1960s.

Crystals, shamans, guided imagery, healing meditation--why have these New Age practices been so eagerly accepted by so many North Americans? Why were Mormonism, Christian Science, and Baha'i so warmly welcomed before them?

Another Gospel explains how these and other alternative religious movements appear to meet people's spiritual needs. As a professor in church history, women's studies, and alternative religions, Ruth Tucker deftly illuminates the personalities whose alleged revelations spawned historical heresies in all the major cults in the United States. Another Gospel:

• Highlights important controversies within each movement as it aims for religious respectability.
• Pinpoints how the doctrines and practices of a dozen contemporary groups--as well as the New Age Movement--deviate from orthodox Christianity.
• Shows how to reach out to cult members about the true Gospel and lasting fulfillment of Jesus Christ.

Appendices describe lesser-known cults, such as Swedenborgianism and Rosicrucianism, and provide cults' statements of belief for the benefit of those seeking to understand the various fringe beliefs they may encounter.

Back Jacket

A comprehensive survey of major alternative religions in the United States, including new groups since the 1960s Crystals, shamans, guided imagery, healing meditation---why have these New Age practices been so eagerly accepted by so many North Americans? Why were Mormonism, Christian Science, and Baha'i so warmly welcomed earlier? Another Gospel explains how these and other alternative religious movements appear to meet people's needs. Ruth Tucker's overview illumines the personalities whose alleged revelations spawned historical heresies in all the major cults in the United States. She highlights important controversies within each movement as it aims for religious respectability. She pinpoints how the doctrines and practices of a dozen contemporary groups---as well as the New Age Movement---deviate from orthodox Christianity and shows how to reach out to cult members. Appendices describe lesser-known cults, such as Swedenborgianism and Rosicrucianism, and provide cults' statements of belief.