PORTLAND, Ore. - The man behind the armed occupation of a federal wildlife refuge in Oregon comes from a Mormon family that has been challenging government authority for at least two decades.

Ammon Bundy says he is following directions from God. His father, Cliven, also referenced his religious beliefs during an infamous 2014 standoff with federal authorities in Nevada.

Mormon leaders have condemned the wildlife refuge occupation in Oregon and say they are "deeply troubled" by reports that suggest the armed group is acting "based on Scriptural principles."

Ammon Bundy's tactics have also been rejected by many locals, by the Oregon Cattleman's Association and others.