The LCS Factor

[Ohio]

Originally Posted by Peter Debelak

What I am interested in, in part, is what is was that attracted folks in the first place. There are varied answers to that question, but its answer is important. Rephrased, my question to LC members could be: "What was the foundation of your being in the LC." I do think this is an analogous inquiry to the one you are pursuing.

For me personally, the answer is simple, thru the meetings I was filled in spirit thru the singing, the speaking of the word, and the testimonies. My love for the Lord, His word, and His people was continually "recharged" to overflowing.

Looking back, there was a tremendous subduing effect of the Holy Spirit upon me, and my stubborn and naughty ways, which effect was NOT from man. I have long felt that I was at the tail end of the blessed period in LC history. Things changed soon after I arrived in the mid 70's. People no longer "just showed up" and "gave their all" to "Christ and the church." These changes were several -- growing internal issues, external pressures from books, and cultural changes -- the "Jesus Movement" was ending.

But, being honest here, definitely there were some leaders who took advantage of my submissive attitude towards the Lord. It became easy in that environment to "play God" with the lives of young people. Whether this was the effects of spreading "Chinese culture" or just just plain old "power grabbing" is hard to say.

As AndPeter has alluded to, all this talk of "God's army" was straight from hell. Many saints were hurt by "army strategies." I believe this became a direct insult to the Headship of Christ. With the "commander in chief" in Anaheim, and his loyal lieutenants in place, with all non-soldier types effectively purged, who needs God anyways?