by Bob Thompson
April 5, 2005
I have been soberly considering the points you brought up in your letter. I truly believe you have our best interests at heart, so I can appreciate the burden you carry for us.
However, I have recently received in the mail a paper entitled, “Preserving Our Heritage,” by Alan Hemenway (enclosed). My wife and I were both totally unaware of what has been going on behind closed doors these past several years. It was a shocking revelation. And the credibility of Hemenway’s explosive paper has been heightened by the many who have shared on “factnet” and “battered sheep” their own tragic experiences during the time they sat under, and submitted to, the leadership of your organization.
After much reading and giving prayerful consideration to what you’ve said, and what others have brought to our attention, I’m sorry to have to tell you... that we simply do not have liberty to accept your well meaning urgings to come over and take a stand with you - especially in view of your newly-formed incorporated denomination. We believe all denominations should be marked to be avoided as we seek to stand with Christ "outside the camp" to which he has called us. Heb. 13:13; 2 Cor. 6:18.
Your particular denomination, however, comes with an added wrinkle: New followers will sooner or later discover that (1) it demands unquestioned allegience and obedience to its overlordship - with hand-picked "watchdogs" to make sure the wishes of those at the top are carried out; (2) the system brooks no resistence or challenge from any quarter, and (3) it tolerates no Berean-minded individual who openly dares to let the Lord God, not man, lead him in doctrinal and spiritual matters pertaining to his walk.
(These items, dear brother, are three of the more-controlling marks of a cult, as you surely must know). We think, for the sake and safety of your family, it's time for you to come out of it.)
“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Cor. 3:17.
We do, indeed, send our love to you, your beloved wife, and to the young folks of your fine family.
"Faithful are the wounds of a friend..." Prov. 17:6