Why does the salvation army do what they do?

Answer 1

The Salvation Army though a Christian denomination (not a cult) does appear to some as one due, to the military titles and military structure it holds to.

This is culturally taboo recently considering militia groups etc, but essentially it has one leader like the Catholic Church, Anglican church etc. It also has a council that elects that leader like the Council of Cardinals in the Catholic Church, Anglican Church etc.

So it does appear to be a cult due to the culture wars of late.

During the 1800's when it was founded it caused the numbers of adherents and soldiers of the Salvation Army to explode due to its ease to understand, it clear lines of authority, its global evangelical mission and especially resonated within the culture of the UK.

Answer 2

The army is generally out to save the lost. Their mission is to help people in need and tell the person how God the creator loves them.