Yes, it's a cult. If people make themslves vulnerable to such things, they are bound to be taken over by such things. I've met Chick --- he's seems very nice, and grounded. His beliefs are HIS beliefs. And mine are mine. The extent of my interest in his life is the music he produces. Based on that, I consider the man brilliant.
Sorry to hear that you witnessed such a bad experience in your friend's life.