You know, it’s when people start responding to things with a party line/lines to take/stock responses that you know independent thinking has been abandoned.

I get what you’re trying to do but you might want to consider whether your advice here disproves the cult allegation or lends it more credibility, especially if it’s lurkers you’re hoping to convince.

Certainly when I see people from any kind of movement parroting each other with the same off the shelf script their credibility vanishes in my eyes.

Perhaps for all of the above accusations asking them to expand on their charge and listening intently to what they are saying in an earnest attempt to understand would be the best option.

If they are talking shit and don’t know what they’re on about then it will soon become apparent - to both of you!