A Future and a Hope - Epilogue

[Ohio]

Epilogue pp. 4-5

It came as no surprise then, when I was called to Cleveland one day, accompanied by a Columbus elder. We both knew what would probably take place -- I would be questioned and found guilty. The ride up north was by no means quiet. The elder expressed all sorts of sentiments supportive to me. But as we gathered in that room with Titus Chu and an extremely supportive loyal Cleveland elder, the big talk noticeably disappeared. My Columbus elder friend put his head down as if he were a puppy spanked with a newspaper.

I hope no one reading this brief account looks upon John's close friend with anything less than heartfelt sympathy. Few can understand the immense intimidation confronting these brothers in Cleveland. I was reminded of many a brother during the dark ages who, when facing the inquisitors, fainted at their first trial. The interrogation seemed to fog the brain, with growing fear gripping it.

Only a brother willing to lose it all for Christ can remain sober-minded in these circumstances, and stand fast in our liberty. The seasoned Apostle Paul said, "watch, stand firm in the faith, be a man, be strong!" So much easier said than done. As one who was often seized up with "stage fright," I am more than understanding here. I can also add that just recently this dear brother and his wife have also departed from the Titus Chu system to pursue the Lord. Thank the Lord for this. May the Lord bless them.

Looking back at the whole situation, one stronghold that held this dear brother was the thought that "we are Titus' fruit, we belong to him, he raised us up." He mentioned this on occasion to others. Let me say loudly to all -- we belong only to the Lord Jesus and His Father! He alone paid the ultimate price for our liberty and our redemption. We are the Lord's, and His alone. The Apostle Paul said, "Was I crucified for you? Were you baptized into my name? What then is Paul? Just a minister thru whom you believed. I planted, but God made to grow!"

It is a tragedy of epic proportions that ministers like Witness Lee and Titus Chu use their God-given gifts to render positive spiritual help to the believers on the one hand, and then hold them in lifelong bondage because of that spiritual help. Proper ministers demand no such allegiance from their students.