[UntoHim]

Originally Posted by OBW

I have already pointed out that the article by Nigel does not really say much since there is insufficient information and true comparability, coupled with uncertain causation to make any real assertions. But among the possible results, a decline in interest in the LRC could be a cause. And having 3X more people in Europe does not stand in the way of that result (or any result) because the numerical insignificance of the group makes analysis nearly meaningless.

So long as the person and work of Witness Lee is emphasized over the Person and Work of the Lord Jesus Christ, then the Local Church will find itself virtually insignificant in the Body of Christ, and even in the eyes of the general public. I had high hopes that when Lee died it would make a way for the Lord to do something miraculous, and turn the hearts and minds of all these sincere brothers and sisters towards His Word and His Kingdom, but after almost two decades things seem to be getting worse rather than better.

Really and truly, statistics are just statistics and people and groups will use them to serve their own purposes. In the past, Lee and his followers have always tried to have it both ways - If the movement was growing then they all sung the praises of "the ministry" and how the growth was proof of the Lord's approval and blessing. Then when the tide moved in the opposite direction they would pull out the "we're the small remnant returned to the proper ground" and "narrow is the way and few there be that find it" cards. Remember what Mark Twain said "there are three kinds of lies... lies, damned lies and statistics". At the end of the day the only statistic that will count is the Lord asking us if we have been faithful to Him and His Word.

In any event, I for one appreciate Nigel's efforts, God knows the guys over at LSM/DCP are not going to be forthcoming about such things.