Factoverfiction Wrote:
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> @GoingRogue,
> I think you're absolutely correct in that LW is
> unique. Being unique is actually a common part of
> many of these cult movements. Developing a shared
> language helps build unity, and the feeling that
> you're special. In this way, I'd compare LW to
> Mike Bickle's movement, International House of
> Prayer (IHOP). LW was even associated with them
> briefly in the 2000s, sending some "ambassadors"
> to pray with the movement and also with the likes
> of Todd Bentley and the Los Angeled Lakeland
> Revival. Gary and Marilyn actually attended a few
> of Bentley's services in Los Angeles at the height
> of his popularity before he got caught sleeping
> with his secretary. I can remember seeing them on
> television.
>
>
> The IHOP movement reminds me of LW in that they
> have a commercial Public Relations wing that is
> very timid compared to their pastoral wing. IHOP
> has a very active Public Relations team that
> invites many evangelical movements to pray.
> However, pastors and youth leaders within IHOP are
> subjected to a much more rigorous lifestyle.
> Numerous 'offshoots' of IHOP have been identified
> as cults, and the church is quick to distance
> itself from any controversial youth leaders. Some
> point to the founder himself, Mike Bickle's, as a
> cult leader, responsible for all offshoots of
> IHOP. All IHOP pastors are required to memorize
> Mike Bickle's Prophetic History (PH), which has
> been amended numerous times since the 1980s due to
> prophesies and miracles that were disproven.
> Pastors are encouraged to submit to elders, live
> in communal homes, and they are discouraged from
> attending traditional colleges-- instead attending
> non-accredited IHOP "academies." The thought
> process is that college is unnecessary as "God is
> moving radically in the world and will soon bring
> miracles and true wisdom." Sound familiar?
>
>
> LW structures itself in a similar way with PR
> ventures like the Christmas Truck, New Years
> parties, and the July Fireworks extravaganza. New
> members are discouraged from attending the School
> of Prophets or any services with prophesy. That
> all changes once a member is 'in the fold.' They
> are then highly encouraged to submit to church
> leaders and memorize JRS's own "Prophetic
> History."
>
> Good article on IHOP:
> [
www.pitch.com]
Great info on IHOP, Factoverfiction. I can see many similarities. Besides the others you listed, they believe that their prayers will bring judgment and the return of Christ. They plan on being around for the tribulation, and seem to be prepping accordingly.
Interesting that G&M were so into connecting with other unusual groups. I seem to remember them discouraging members from doing that for themselves. Why do you think that they searched out so many groups?