In 1977 The Mindbenders, a book authored by Jack Sparks, published by Thomas Nelson, Inc., accused Witness Lee and The Local Churches of being a cult and of being heretical in their beliefs. Both before and after publication of their first edition, Nelson received many letters from The Local Churches and their members protesting the falsity of the chapter concerning them. Notwithstanding these letters, Nelson published an expanded second edition in 1979. In 1980 Local Churches brought suit against Thomas Nelson and the author for libel.

The Local Churches should not have been included in either edition of The Mindbenders. Nelson has no desire to inflict any damage or harm upon Witness Lee, The Local Churches, or their members by the continued publication of this book. Therefore, Nelson hereby retracts the statements made in The Mindbenders about them, and extends its apology to the good Christian members of the The Local Churches. Accordingly, Nelson has withdrawn the book from publication and distribution and encourages all book sellers who have any unsold copies to return them for credit.

THOMAS NELSON, INC
April 10, 1983