It kind of leaves me the impression that, for some people, the entire faith is no more than obedience. Do as you're told. Don't question, don't think, don't allow yourself too much independence.
Maybe this is a mistaken impression. But I am sure that mere obedience is the idea that pervades the organization from top to bottom. What I mean is, all the leaders, from the governing body down, only expect everyone else to take orders. What those orders are is a secondary matter.
Your observations are spot on dgp.
It's not just sad but very, very scary. If they are told to jump, the only question they need to ask is "how high?"
Obedience without question to the GB is everything.