Are the teachings of Witness Lee and the Local Church biblical?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The teachings of Witness Lee and the Local Church movement, which Lee brought to America from China in 1962, have been a subject of debate within Christian circles. While they affirm core Christian doctrines, some of their teachings and practices have raised concerns, including their view of the Trinity, the concept of believers as "God-men," ecclesiology and church governance, legal actions against other Christians, the authoritative status of Lee's writings, and claims of exclusivity regarding their expression of the church. The Bible emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine (Titus 2:1) and unity among believers (Ephesians 4:3–6). Examining the Local Church's teachings in light of Scripture reveals areas of agreement with orthodox Christianity, as well as some points of controversy. Their emphasis on the believers' union with Christ aligns with biblical teaching, but some of their statements about the nature of God and the church have been questioned. Ultimately, Christians are called to test all teachings against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and to maintain the unity of the faith in love (Ephesians 4:13–15).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Deuteronomy 6:4: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." This verse emphasizes the oneness of God, which is relevant to discussions about the Local Church's view of the Trinity.
• Isaiah 43:10: "'You are my witnesses,' declares the LORD, 'and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me.'" This affirms that God alone is God, which is pertinent to evaluating claims about believers becoming "God-men."
• Jeremiah 17:9–10: "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds." This speaks to the sinful nature of humanity, which relates to discussions about the Local Church's anthropology.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• John 17:20–23: Jesus prays for the unity of believers, which relates to the Local Church's emphasis on oneness among Christians.
• Colossians 2:9–10: "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority." This passage speaks to the deity of Christ and believers' union with Him, themes important in Local Church teaching.
• Ephesians 4:4–6: "There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage emphasizes the unity of the faith and the church, which relates to Local Church ecclesiology.
• First Corinthians 6:1–8: Paul instructs believers not to take each other to court, which is relevant to discussions about the Local Church's legal actions against other Christian organizations.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The controversy surrounding Witness Lee and the Local Church reminds us of the importance of clear communication in matters of doctrine. It highlights the need for Christians to carefully examine teachings in light of Scripture and to seek understanding across cultural and linguistic barriers. The situation also underscores the value of unity among believers and the need for gracious dialogue when disagreements arise. As we encounter different expressions of the Christian faith, we should be willing to listen and learn while holding firmly to the core truths of the gospel. This approach can help us navigate doctrinal discussions with both discernment and love, recognizing our common faith in Christ while addressing areas of concern with clarity and grace.

UNDERSTAND

• Witness Lee and the Local Church affirm essential Christian doctrines, yet some of their teachings raise concerns that require careful examination.
• Scripture calls Christians to assess all teachings against the Bible.
• The Local Church has faced allegations of controlling behavior.

REFLECT

• How do we discern between legitimate differences in interpretation and potentially harmful or unbiblical teachings within different Christian denominations or groups?
• In what ways can our understanding of unity among believers be challenged by differing doctrines or practices, and how should we respond to those challenges?
• How does the concept of believers being united with Christ impact our daily lives and interactions with others who may hold differing theological views that are non-essential?

ENGAGE

• What specific biblical passages can we use to evaluate the teachings of the Local Church and determine their alignment with core Christian doctrines?
• How do the teachings of Witness Lee and the Local Church compare with other theological perspectives on the nature of God and the Trinity?
• What can we do to confront false doctrine and practices in the church?