No. Here’s why:
The American Heritage Dictionary defines a cult thus:
1.a. A religion or religious sect generally considered to be extremist or false, with its followers often living in an unconventional manner under the guidance of an authoritarian, charismatic leader.
cult. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved August 04, 2008, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/cult
Here’s where that definition is not accurate:
1. The Church is not an extremist organization (though of course that can be a subjective term). It parallels the Church organization and practices as found in the New Testament.
2. Members of the Church live in a conventional manner. In fact, chances are you have interacted with a member of the Church without knowing it (there are more than 13 million members worldwide).
3. The Church is not led by a “charismatic” (meaning - possessing an extraordinary ability to attract) leader. It is led by the prophet, or President of the Church, he is not voted into that position, he receives a calling from God. He is does not exercise authority over the Church. He simply acts as God’s mouthpiece.
Cult is a word that critics of the Church use. It is inaccurate.