Jehovah's Witnesses were taught this past Sunday from the September 15, 2010, Watchtower study article found on pages 21-25, entitled, "Your Leader Is One, The Christ". Right out of the gate, paragraph 1 states:
"CHRISTENDOM’S churches have human leaders, such as the pope of Rome, the patriarchs and metropolitans of the Eastern Orthodox churches, and the heads of other religions. Jehovah’s Witnesses recognize no human as their leader. They are not disciples or followers of any man. This is in line with Jehovah’s prophetic utterance concerning his Son: “Look! As a witness to the national groups I have given him, as a leader and commander to the national groups.” (Isa. 55:4) The international congregation of anointed Christians and their “other sheep” companions want no leader other than the one Jehovah has given them. (John 10:16) They subscribe to Jesus’ statement: “Your Leader is one, the Christ.” —Matt. 23:10."
In typical Watchtower fashion, the organization bashes other religions while trying to convince the reader how different they are in the way they arrange and conduct themselves as a group. The claim that Jehovah's Witnesses recognize no human as their leader is at best a game of semantics, at worst a flat out lie.
The organization applies the following scriptures heavily:
Hebrews 13:7 - Remember those who are taking the lead among YOU, who have spoken the word of God to YOU, and as YOU contemplate how [their] conduct turns out imitate [their] faith.
Hebrews 13:17 - Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among YOU and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over YOUR souls as those who will render an account; that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to YOU.
Hebrews 13:24 - Give my greetings to all those who are taking the lead among YOU and to all the holy ones. Those in Italy send YOU their greetings.
The Watchtower Society utilizes its own interpretation and implementation of the above writings.
Below is the hierarchy and organizational structure/power found within the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses, starting with its top leaders down to the lowest title:
I. Governing Body
II. Traveling Overseers:
A. Zone/Branch Overseers
B. District Overseers
C. Circuit Overseers
D. City Overseers [Optional]
III. Congregations:
A. Elders
1. Coordinator of the Body of Elders (Previously called Presiding Overseer)
2. Service Overseer
3. Congregation Secretary
4. Other roles [I.E. Watchtower Conductor]
B. Ministerial Servants
C. Baptized Publishers
D. Unbaptized Publishers
E. Students
F. Associates
Note that the highest level a female within the organization can achieve is Baptized Publisher.
The chain of power and authority from least to greatest after that...
Ministerial Servant --> Elder --> [Optional] City Overseer --> Circuit Overseer --> District Overseer --> Zone/Branch Overseer --> Governing Body
...Can only be held by a male. Females do not hold such positions within the organization.
The emphasis and stress of leadership and being obedient to Jehovah's Witnesses human leaders is clear within even current Watchtower articles. For example:
Watchtower, January 15, 2008, page 26, paragraph 6:
"In a symbolic way, Christians with an earthly hope today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership."
Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29:
"The Head, Jesus Christ, supplies the body members with what is needed for good cooperation, coordination, and spiritual nourishment. (Eph. 4:15, 16; Col. 2:19) In such respects, the Governing Body is organized to take the lead as Jehovah directs them by holy spirit."
Watchtower, February 15, 2009, page 28, paragraph 17:
"The members of the Governing Body are experienced, spirit-anointed elders. They in particular can be described as “those who are taking the lead” among us. (Heb. 13:7)"
Watchtower, November 15, 2009, page 14, paragraph 5:
"We need to guard against developing a spirit of independence. By word or action, may we never challenge the channel of communication that Jehovah is using today. (Num. 16:1-3) On the contrary, we should cherish our privilege to cooperate with the slave class. And should we not strive to be obedient and submissive to those taking the lead in our local congregation?"
As for Jesus Christ, the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses states the majority of the members do not even have Jesus as their mediator:
"Likewise, the Greater Moses, Jesus Christ, is not the Mediator between Jehovah God and all mankind. He is the Mediator between his heavenly Father, Jehovah God, and the nation of spiritual Israel, which is limited to only 144,000 members.”
Straight from the Watchtower Society, Governing Body endorsed, publication studied and taught by Jehovah's Witnesses, "Worldwide Security Under the Prince of Peace". The above teaching came directly from page 10, paragraph 16.
Make no mistake about it, Jehovah's Witnesses have plenty of human leaders. Their publications can try to indoctrinate otherwise and play with semantics, but they are encouraging a game of lies and hypocrisy.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Sins of the Elders
The new elder's manual, Shepherd the Flock of God, provided by the Watchtower Society, makes a few disturbing statements in just a couple of paragraphs. Notice what is highlighted on page 38, paragraphs 19 and 20, respecting the past sins of an elder:
Paragraph 19 states:
"If it comes to light or an appointed brother confesses that he has committed a disfellowshipping offense years in the past: The body of elders may determine he can continue to serve if the following is true: The immorality or other serious wrongdoing occurred more than a few years ago, and he is genuinely repentant, recognizing that he should have come forward immediately when he sinned. (Perhaps he has even confesses to his sin, seeking help with his guilty conscience.) He has been serving faithfully for many years, has evidence of God's blessing, and has the respect of the congregation."
So if an elder has a serious sin, one worthy of being disfellowshipped and does not mention it, waits some years, and then confesses; the congregation will never be the wiser, as long as the other elder's believe that elder is sincere in his relatively recent display of repentance and regret. It will be like the sin never occurred and the man would remain an elder over Jehovah's Witnesses. He can continue to serve as an elder - No consequences are experienced.
Surely, they must draw a line at something as detestable as child abuse, no? Paragraph 20 informs:
"If the sin occurred before he was appointed as an elder or a ministerial servant, the elders will need to take into consideration the fact that he should have mentioned this possible impediment to his being qualified when elders interviewed him just prior to announcing his appointment. Moreover, the nature of the sin may reflect greatly on his qualifications to serve. For example, the sin may involve past child abuse, and this would likely disqualify him for many years."
According to the organization, and the directives elder's are provided, a gross sin, one worthy of disfellowshipping, only serves as a possible impediment for the man to be appointed. In fact, the Watchtower Society states that even if it involved past child abuse it would only likely disqualify a man. It may reflect greatly on his qualifications to serve.
In fully understanding the consequence of this 'spiritual direction', let's paint a scenario.
A child abuser has been 'appointed' to an elder and has been one for many years. Finally, he comes forward and states he used to abuse children. The admonition is that he would likely be disqualified but not definitely as an elder; the same applies for any so-called brothers reaching out for ministerial servant or wanting to become an elder. Although abusing children in the past, but stating he has not done so for many years; that individual is not definitely disqualified or will never serve, only likely.
How would you like that individual to remain an elder? What if that elder is going door to door or whatever else with your child, brother, sister, niece, nephew, or any other family member? You'll never know, and there is nothing coming from the hierarchy of the organization stopping it. The so-called ‘appointment’ and keeping that man in such a position was made by a bunch of local men, who believe they are being guided by holy spirit with the nonsense spewed from the Watch Tower Bible Tract Society.
So keep that sin a secret, brothers! Wait several years, and in the meantime do works that prove how repentant you are and build a sterling reputation. Convince the congregation you are a fine character and an asset to the congregation. This will show "evidence" of "God's blessing" and you will likely be absolved of any consequence of that sin...Even past child abuse is possibly permissible...
Sickening to think the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses claims to be the only true religion composed of the only true Christians. It's more like a place where a devious and sneaky man's dream can come true. If you're a male, you just have to play the game.
Paragraph 19 states:
"If it comes to light or an appointed brother confesses that he has committed a disfellowshipping offense years in the past: The body of elders may determine he can continue to serve if the following is true: The immorality or other serious wrongdoing occurred more than a few years ago, and he is genuinely repentant, recognizing that he should have come forward immediately when he sinned. (Perhaps he has even confesses to his sin, seeking help with his guilty conscience.) He has been serving faithfully for many years, has evidence of God's blessing, and has the respect of the congregation."
So if an elder has a serious sin, one worthy of being disfellowshipped and does not mention it, waits some years, and then confesses; the congregation will never be the wiser, as long as the other elder's believe that elder is sincere in his relatively recent display of repentance and regret. It will be like the sin never occurred and the man would remain an elder over Jehovah's Witnesses. He can continue to serve as an elder - No consequences are experienced.
Surely, they must draw a line at something as detestable as child abuse, no? Paragraph 20 informs:
"If the sin occurred before he was appointed as an elder or a ministerial servant, the elders will need to take into consideration the fact that he should have mentioned this possible impediment to his being qualified when elders interviewed him just prior to announcing his appointment. Moreover, the nature of the sin may reflect greatly on his qualifications to serve. For example, the sin may involve past child abuse, and this would likely disqualify him for many years."
According to the organization, and the directives elder's are provided, a gross sin, one worthy of disfellowshipping, only serves as a possible impediment for the man to be appointed. In fact, the Watchtower Society states that even if it involved past child abuse it would only likely disqualify a man. It may reflect greatly on his qualifications to serve.
In fully understanding the consequence of this 'spiritual direction', let's paint a scenario.
A child abuser has been 'appointed' to an elder and has been one for many years. Finally, he comes forward and states he used to abuse children. The admonition is that he would likely be disqualified but not definitely as an elder; the same applies for any so-called brothers reaching out for ministerial servant or wanting to become an elder. Although abusing children in the past, but stating he has not done so for many years; that individual is not definitely disqualified or will never serve, only likely.
How would you like that individual to remain an elder? What if that elder is going door to door or whatever else with your child, brother, sister, niece, nephew, or any other family member? You'll never know, and there is nothing coming from the hierarchy of the organization stopping it. The so-called ‘appointment’ and keeping that man in such a position was made by a bunch of local men, who believe they are being guided by holy spirit with the nonsense spewed from the Watch Tower Bible Tract Society.
So keep that sin a secret, brothers! Wait several years, and in the meantime do works that prove how repentant you are and build a sterling reputation. Convince the congregation you are a fine character and an asset to the congregation. This will show "evidence" of "God's blessing" and you will likely be absolved of any consequence of that sin...Even past child abuse is possibly permissible...
Sickening to think the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses claims to be the only true religion composed of the only true Christians. It's more like a place where a devious and sneaky man's dream can come true. If you're a male, you just have to play the game.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Sisters and Shepherding
The newly released 'Elder's only' manual 'Shepherding the Flock of God', has been followed up with a letter addressed to the Body of Elders, dated October 7, 2010. It highlights the respective view of women by the organization's leaders.
The letter states regarding having the book spiral bound:
"There is no objection if an elder personally spiral binds or laminates his own textbook or does so for elders. If he has another baptized brother who is not an elder do the work for him, the elder must watch while the work is being done. Outside companies, unbelievers, or sisters are not permitted to do this work. The material in the book is confidential, and confidentiality must be preserved."
So, if a member is a baptized male of the organization, it's permitted for the individual to do the work of spiral binding the book. However, if it is a baptized female she is not allowed to do so. Sisters - inclusive of all women who make up Jehovah's Witnesses - are classified with "outside companies" and "unbelievers" when it comes to trust and confidentiality according to the leaders of the organization.
Jehovah's Witnesses leaders, the good old boys of Bethel, whether it's Brooklyn or Patterson, lay the law once again.
Is it no surprise the organization stated that females who were raped are guilty of fornication if they did not yell or scream out while being attacked? See the Watchtower from January 15, 1964, page 64; and the Awake! from March 8, 1974, page 14.
For added insult to the organization’s “sisters”, the February 22, 1984 Awake! magazine admonishes women to treat their rapist respectfully.
This is not good and wholesome spiritual food that Jehovah’s Witnesses are fed, but sickening, twisted and demoralizing instructions...Especially so, if you are a female and one of the organization's so-called "sisters".
The letter states regarding having the book spiral bound:
"There is no objection if an elder personally spiral binds or laminates his own textbook or does so for elders. If he has another baptized brother who is not an elder do the work for him, the elder must watch while the work is being done. Outside companies, unbelievers, or sisters are not permitted to do this work. The material in the book is confidential, and confidentiality must be preserved."
So, if a member is a baptized male of the organization, it's permitted for the individual to do the work of spiral binding the book. However, if it is a baptized female she is not allowed to do so. Sisters - inclusive of all women who make up Jehovah's Witnesses - are classified with "outside companies" and "unbelievers" when it comes to trust and confidentiality according to the leaders of the organization.
Jehovah's Witnesses leaders, the good old boys of Bethel, whether it's Brooklyn or Patterson, lay the law once again.
Is it no surprise the organization stated that females who were raped are guilty of fornication if they did not yell or scream out while being attacked? See the Watchtower from January 15, 1964, page 64; and the Awake! from March 8, 1974, page 14.
For added insult to the organization’s “sisters”, the February 22, 1984 Awake! magazine admonishes women to treat their rapist respectfully.
This is not good and wholesome spiritual food that Jehovah’s Witnesses are fed, but sickening, twisted and demoralizing instructions...Especially so, if you are a female and one of the organization's so-called "sisters".
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Applying The Bible
How does one apply the Bible in their life?
According to the Watchtower from October 1, 1967, page 587 under 'Finding Freedom with Jehovah's Visible Organization' it states:
"Thus the Bible is an organizational book and belongs to the Christian congregation as an organization, not to individuals, regardless of how sincerely they may believe that they can interpret the Bible. For this reason the Bible cannot be properly understood without Jehovah's visible organization in mind."
Directly from the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses, the Bible does not belong to individuals but to their organization. In fact, the Bible cannot be understood without their visible organization (The Watchtower Society) in mind.
That is pretty sick and twisted reasoning. Perhaps this teaching has been refined over the years. Let's take a look at the issue from February 15, 1981 page 19, under 'Do We Need Help to Understand the Bible?' it states:
"We all need help to understand the Bible, and we cannot find the Scriptural guidance we need outside the "faithful and discreet slave" organization."
It appears they are sticking with this attitude that no one can understand the Bible without the aid of the Watchtower Society.
Nonetheless, that was nearly 30 years ago. Certainly now, humility has become apparent and such an arrogant and haughty spirit no longer exudes from the teachings and beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses printed in the pages of the Watchtower, right?
The September 15, 2010, Watchtower, page 8, seriously elevates the leaders of Jehovah's Witnesses to demigod status once again. It states in paragraph 7:
"We cannot hope to acquire a good relationship with Jehovah if we ignore those whom Jesus has appointed to care for his belongings. Without the assistance of "the faithful and discreet slave", we would neither understand the full import of what we read in God's Word nor know how to apply it."
Nothing new under the sun for the Watchtower Society and the men in Brooklyn posing as the soul channel of truth God is using to communicate with people today. Remember, they are appointed by Jesus, because they say so according to their select interpretation of specific bible passages. You must also ignore all their flip-flops in teaching and false prophesying.
Part of the problem is this attitude and mentality is rooted at the foundation of the organization’s beginnings.
The Watchtower Society first president - Charles Taze Russell - wrote a series of books called, 'Studies in the Scriptures'. Interestingly, the September 15, 1910 edition, on page 4695, states:
“Not only do we find that people cannot see the divine plan in studying the Bible by itself, but we see, also, that if anyone lays the Scripture Studies aside, even after he has used them, after he has become familiar with them, after he has read them for ten years - if he then lays them aside and ignores them and goes to the Bible alone, though he has understood his Bible for ten years, our experience shows that within two years he goes into darkness. On the other hand, if he had merely read the Scripture Studies with their references, and had not read a page of the Bible, as such, he would be in the light at the end of the two years, because he would have the light of the Scriptures.”
Russell identified himself as the sole authority of Biblical interpretation and understanding. He stated that one would end up in spiritual darkness without examining his writings. His writings were needed to properly understand and apply the Bible.
When the year was 1910, you needed one man, Charles Taze Russell. In the year 2010, you need the writings and directions of several men in Brooklyn.
Just like many other cult and cult-like organizations, emphasis is placed upon the organization and/or its human leader(s) as being the source of authority, information, and understanding the message or Word of God.
What does the Bible teach is needed for Christians to apply and understand the scriptures?
John 14:16 - "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever"
John 15:26 - "But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me."
John 16:13 - "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come."
1 John 2:27 - "But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him."
According to the above passages it is the Holy Spirit – The Helper, the Spirit of truth - which is utilized to apply the Bible. Contrary to the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, you do not need their organization or their interpretation, inclusive of their publications.
Jehovah's Witnesses are indoctrinated to believe they need the Watchtower Organization, they need the Watchtower. You want a relationship with God? Don't ignore the men in Brooklyn. According to the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses, you need the men in Brooklyn, and the organization they run and control, to understand the full import of God's Word and how to apply it.
According to the Watchtower from October 1, 1967, page 587 under 'Finding Freedom with Jehovah's Visible Organization' it states:
"Thus the Bible is an organizational book and belongs to the Christian congregation as an organization, not to individuals, regardless of how sincerely they may believe that they can interpret the Bible. For this reason the Bible cannot be properly understood without Jehovah's visible organization in mind."
Directly from the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses, the Bible does not belong to individuals but to their organization. In fact, the Bible cannot be understood without their visible organization (The Watchtower Society) in mind.
That is pretty sick and twisted reasoning. Perhaps this teaching has been refined over the years. Let's take a look at the issue from February 15, 1981 page 19, under 'Do We Need Help to Understand the Bible?' it states:
"We all need help to understand the Bible, and we cannot find the Scriptural guidance we need outside the "faithful and discreet slave" organization."
It appears they are sticking with this attitude that no one can understand the Bible without the aid of the Watchtower Society.
Nonetheless, that was nearly 30 years ago. Certainly now, humility has become apparent and such an arrogant and haughty spirit no longer exudes from the teachings and beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses printed in the pages of the Watchtower, right?
The September 15, 2010, Watchtower, page 8, seriously elevates the leaders of Jehovah's Witnesses to demigod status once again. It states in paragraph 7:
"We cannot hope to acquire a good relationship with Jehovah if we ignore those whom Jesus has appointed to care for his belongings. Without the assistance of "the faithful and discreet slave", we would neither understand the full import of what we read in God's Word nor know how to apply it."
Nothing new under the sun for the Watchtower Society and the men in Brooklyn posing as the soul channel of truth God is using to communicate with people today. Remember, they are appointed by Jesus, because they say so according to their select interpretation of specific bible passages. You must also ignore all their flip-flops in teaching and false prophesying.
Part of the problem is this attitude and mentality is rooted at the foundation of the organization’s beginnings.
The Watchtower Society first president - Charles Taze Russell - wrote a series of books called, 'Studies in the Scriptures'. Interestingly, the September 15, 1910 edition, on page 4695, states:
“Not only do we find that people cannot see the divine plan in studying the Bible by itself, but we see, also, that if anyone lays the Scripture Studies aside, even after he has used them, after he has become familiar with them, after he has read them for ten years - if he then lays them aside and ignores them and goes to the Bible alone, though he has understood his Bible for ten years, our experience shows that within two years he goes into darkness. On the other hand, if he had merely read the Scripture Studies with their references, and had not read a page of the Bible, as such, he would be in the light at the end of the two years, because he would have the light of the Scriptures.”
Russell identified himself as the sole authority of Biblical interpretation and understanding. He stated that one would end up in spiritual darkness without examining his writings. His writings were needed to properly understand and apply the Bible.
When the year was 1910, you needed one man, Charles Taze Russell. In the year 2010, you need the writings and directions of several men in Brooklyn.
Just like many other cult and cult-like organizations, emphasis is placed upon the organization and/or its human leader(s) as being the source of authority, information, and understanding the message or Word of God.
What does the Bible teach is needed for Christians to apply and understand the scriptures?
John 14:16 - "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever"
John 15:26 - "But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me."
John 16:13 - "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come."
1 John 2:27 - "But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him."
According to the above passages it is the Holy Spirit – The Helper, the Spirit of truth - which is utilized to apply the Bible. Contrary to the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, you do not need their organization or their interpretation, inclusive of their publications.
Jehovah's Witnesses are indoctrinated to believe they need the Watchtower Organization, they need the Watchtower. You want a relationship with God? Don't ignore the men in Brooklyn. According to the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses, you need the men in Brooklyn, and the organization they run and control, to understand the full import of God's Word and how to apply it.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
How We Will Be Judged
The Watchtower of December 15, 2010, page 20, paragraph 19, under the article "Reap Blessings Through God's Spirit-Guided King!" states:
"Among those "gifts in men" are the members of the Governing Body, who act in a representative way for the entire Christian congregation. In fact, our attitude toward Christ's spiritual brothers is a major factor that will determine how we will be judged during the coming great tribulation. Thus, one aspect of the way we gain a blessing is by giving our loyal support to God's anointed ones."
It appears in their magazine this way:
The Watchtower Society cherry picks select verses from Acts chapter 15 to support a so-called 'Governing Body' in the first century. The fact is this passage was over the one matter of circumcision in which Paul and Barnabus decided it would be best to go to the place where the conflict originated and discussed with a council there. However, it was for that one matter and one matter only. Paul, Barnabus, and other faithful followers of Jesus Christ such as Timothy, did things on their own with no further discussions with anyone from Jerusalem or any so-called Governing Body.
Assuming the role for the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses of being brothers of Christ, the Watchtower Society then rips a few verses from Matthew chapter 25, where Jesus basically states if you don't support my brothers you don't support me. According to the verses in that chapter, those who don't support Jesus' brothers receive everlasting punishment [The Watchtower Society interrupts this to mean not a literal everlasting punishment but eternal death remembered everlastingly], and the righteous receive eternal life.
In either case, both scriptural citations are a weak attempt in trying to provide some twisted biblical backing to the message of: 'Be loyal and have a positive attitude towards us, or else you will be judged unfavorably to eternal death!'.
The messages to Jehovah's Witnesses that is being indoctrinated into their hearts and minds are:
Loyal, Supportive, Faithful to Governing Body = Everlasting 'Perfect' Life.
Disloyal, Unsupportive, Unfaithful to Governing Body = Eternal Death.
The above is impounded and brow-beat into the members of the organization, over and over, time and time again.
As is the case with many cult and cult-like organizations, obedience and loyalty to the leader comes first. The difference with Jehovah's Witnesses demonstrates obedience not to one, but several men who call themselves the ‘Governing Body’. They hold the power and key with instilling fear and allegiance into the members. Loyalty to the organization and its leaders is inculcated above all else in the members' lives, inclusive of family and friends. Jehovah’s Witnesses need to wake up.
"Among those "gifts in men" are the members of the Governing Body, who act in a representative way for the entire Christian congregation. In fact, our attitude toward Christ's spiritual brothers is a major factor that will determine how we will be judged during the coming great tribulation. Thus, one aspect of the way we gain a blessing is by giving our loyal support to God's anointed ones."
It appears in their magazine this way:
The Watchtower Society cherry picks select verses from Acts chapter 15 to support a so-called 'Governing Body' in the first century. The fact is this passage was over the one matter of circumcision in which Paul and Barnabus decided it would be best to go to the place where the conflict originated and discussed with a council there. However, it was for that one matter and one matter only. Paul, Barnabus, and other faithful followers of Jesus Christ such as Timothy, did things on their own with no further discussions with anyone from Jerusalem or any so-called Governing Body.
Assuming the role for the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses of being brothers of Christ, the Watchtower Society then rips a few verses from Matthew chapter 25, where Jesus basically states if you don't support my brothers you don't support me. According to the verses in that chapter, those who don't support Jesus' brothers receive everlasting punishment [The Watchtower Society interrupts this to mean not a literal everlasting punishment but eternal death remembered everlastingly], and the righteous receive eternal life.
In either case, both scriptural citations are a weak attempt in trying to provide some twisted biblical backing to the message of: 'Be loyal and have a positive attitude towards us, or else you will be judged unfavorably to eternal death!'.
The messages to Jehovah's Witnesses that is being indoctrinated into their hearts and minds are:
Loyal, Supportive, Faithful to Governing Body = Everlasting 'Perfect' Life.
Disloyal, Unsupportive, Unfaithful to Governing Body = Eternal Death.
The above is impounded and brow-beat into the members of the organization, over and over, time and time again.
As is the case with many cult and cult-like organizations, obedience and loyalty to the leader comes first. The difference with Jehovah's Witnesses demonstrates obedience not to one, but several men who call themselves the ‘Governing Body’. They hold the power and key with instilling fear and allegiance into the members. Loyalty to the organization and its leaders is inculcated above all else in the members' lives, inclusive of family and friends. Jehovah’s Witnesses need to wake up.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Good News
Supporters and members of Jehovah’s Witnesses may try to argue the topic of preaching with the following question or something similar:
"So, if Jehovah’s Witnesses are wrong, who are the ones Jesus said would be preaching the Good News of the Kingdom worldwide?"
This is one of the most ignorant things a believer in the message of Jesus Christ can dispute.
Particularly from a Jehovah's Witnesses, the reasoning carries the implication and indication that the message Jesus preached and the message Jehovah's Witnesses preach is the same.
This is not true.
For instance, Jehovah's Witnesses are taught, preach and teach, that there will be a paradise earth ruled over by 144,000 kings. Jesus never preached or hinted at anything even remotely close to that idea; neither did first century Christians.
Ironically enough, The Watchtower Society has plainly stated what the 'Good News of the Kingdom" entails.
The organization makes the following statement in the Watchtower, December 15, 1979 edition on pages 5 & 6, under 'How Powerful Is The Good News?' it states:
"OF ALL the messages published throughout the centuries, the “good news” set forth in the Holy Scriptures has had the greatest motivating power for good. The Bible refers to it as “the good news of the kingdom,” “the good news about Jesus Christ,” “the good news of the undeserved kindness of God,” “the good news of God,” “the good news of peace” and the “everlasting good news.” (Matt. 4:23; Mark 1:1; Acts 20:24; Rom. 15:16; Eph. 6:15; Rev. 14:6) This “good news” is primarily the message that salvation or everlasting life is possible on the basis of genuine faith in the atoning benefits of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, and that God’s kingdom by Christ will bring all things on earth into perfect unity with the holy heavens. (Acts 4:12; Rom. 1:16; Eph. 1:7-14) Why does that message have a powerful effect on those accepting it?"
Believers in Jesus Christ preach "the message that salvation or everlasting life is possible on the basis of genuine faith in the atoning benefits of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice", not the mongrel Adventist originated and stemmed from messages that Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe is 'the truth'. For example, only 144,000 go to heaven or the notion that you must belong to their organization, nor the myriads of other Watchtower Society specific doctrine(s).
The 'Good News' found in the Bible is preached, taught, and understood worldwide by many Christians throughout the Earth, it is not an exclusive teaching or message of Jehovah's Witnesses directed by the Watchtower Society's governing body.
Jehovah's Witnesses have their own interpretation and gospel message they bring to people's doors...A different gospel than what first century Christians preached, taught, and believed.
Galatians 1:6-9 warns of those who would have their own brand of the gospel. Straight from the Watchtower Society's own brand of the Bible, The New World Translation, it states:
"I marvel that YOU are being so quickly removed from the One who called YOU with Christ’s undeserved kindness over to another sort of good news. But it is not another; only there are certain ones who are causing YOU trouble and wanting to pervert the good news about the Christ. However, even if we or an angel out of heaven were to declare to YOU as good news something beyond what we declared to YOU as good news, let him be accursed. As we have said above, I also now say again, Whoever it is that is declaring to YOU as good news something beyond what YOU accepted, let him be accursed."
So if any Christian was to declare good news (most other Bibles translate good news as gospel) beyond what was declared to be the good news (or gospel) of Christ, they were to be accursed.
So, what exactly is the "Good News" or Gospel of Jesus Christ?
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 states (Again, even from The New World Translation) in no uncertain terms:
"Now I make known to YOU, brothers, the good news which I declared to YOU, which YOU also received, in which YOU also stand, through which YOU are also being saved, with the speech with which I declared the good news to YOU, if YOU are holding it fast, unless, in fact, YOU became believers to no purpose. For I handed on to YOU, among the first things, that which I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that he was buried, yes, that he has been raised up the third day according to the Scriptures"
This is the Good News/Gospel of Jesus...
Christ died for our sins, he was buried, and was raised up so we may be believers and be saved. That is the Gospel message that must be preached according to the scriptures.
Ask Jehovah's Witnesses what is their message, their gospel, their so-called ‘good news’, and recall what the Bible states about those who declare beyond the gospel/good news. The truth is Jehovah's Witnesses are accursed according to the statements from the Bible, including their own translation of scripture.
"So, if Jehovah’s Witnesses are wrong, who are the ones Jesus said would be preaching the Good News of the Kingdom worldwide?"
This is one of the most ignorant things a believer in the message of Jesus Christ can dispute.
Particularly from a Jehovah's Witnesses, the reasoning carries the implication and indication that the message Jesus preached and the message Jehovah's Witnesses preach is the same.
This is not true.
For instance, Jehovah's Witnesses are taught, preach and teach, that there will be a paradise earth ruled over by 144,000 kings. Jesus never preached or hinted at anything even remotely close to that idea; neither did first century Christians.
Ironically enough, The Watchtower Society has plainly stated what the 'Good News of the Kingdom" entails.
The organization makes the following statement in the Watchtower, December 15, 1979 edition on pages 5 & 6, under 'How Powerful Is The Good News?' it states:
"OF ALL the messages published throughout the centuries, the “good news” set forth in the Holy Scriptures has had the greatest motivating power for good. The Bible refers to it as “the good news of the kingdom,” “the good news about Jesus Christ,” “the good news of the undeserved kindness of God,” “the good news of God,” “the good news of peace” and the “everlasting good news.” (Matt. 4:23; Mark 1:1; Acts 20:24; Rom. 15:16; Eph. 6:15; Rev. 14:6) This “good news” is primarily the message that salvation or everlasting life is possible on the basis of genuine faith in the atoning benefits of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, and that God’s kingdom by Christ will bring all things on earth into perfect unity with the holy heavens. (Acts 4:12; Rom. 1:16; Eph. 1:7-14) Why does that message have a powerful effect on those accepting it?"
Believers in Jesus Christ preach "the message that salvation or everlasting life is possible on the basis of genuine faith in the atoning benefits of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice", not the mongrel Adventist originated and stemmed from messages that Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe is 'the truth'. For example, only 144,000 go to heaven or the notion that you must belong to their organization, nor the myriads of other Watchtower Society specific doctrine(s).
The 'Good News' found in the Bible is preached, taught, and understood worldwide by many Christians throughout the Earth, it is not an exclusive teaching or message of Jehovah's Witnesses directed by the Watchtower Society's governing body.
Jehovah's Witnesses have their own interpretation and gospel message they bring to people's doors...A different gospel than what first century Christians preached, taught, and believed.
Galatians 1:6-9 warns of those who would have their own brand of the gospel. Straight from the Watchtower Society's own brand of the Bible, The New World Translation, it states:
"I marvel that YOU are being so quickly removed from the One who called YOU with Christ’s undeserved kindness over to another sort of good news. But it is not another; only there are certain ones who are causing YOU trouble and wanting to pervert the good news about the Christ. However, even if we or an angel out of heaven were to declare to YOU as good news something beyond what we declared to YOU as good news, let him be accursed. As we have said above, I also now say again, Whoever it is that is declaring to YOU as good news something beyond what YOU accepted, let him be accursed."
So if any Christian was to declare good news (most other Bibles translate good news as gospel) beyond what was declared to be the good news (or gospel) of Christ, they were to be accursed.
So, what exactly is the "Good News" or Gospel of Jesus Christ?
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 states (Again, even from The New World Translation) in no uncertain terms:
"Now I make known to YOU, brothers, the good news which I declared to YOU, which YOU also received, in which YOU also stand, through which YOU are also being saved, with the speech with which I declared the good news to YOU, if YOU are holding it fast, unless, in fact, YOU became believers to no purpose. For I handed on to YOU, among the first things, that which I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that he was buried, yes, that he has been raised up the third day according to the Scriptures"
This is the Good News/Gospel of Jesus...
Christ died for our sins, he was buried, and was raised up so we may be believers and be saved. That is the Gospel message that must be preached according to the scriptures.
Ask Jehovah's Witnesses what is their message, their gospel, their so-called ‘good news’, and recall what the Bible states about those who declare beyond the gospel/good news. The truth is Jehovah's Witnesses are accursed according to the statements from the Bible, including their own translation of scripture.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Not From Men
Some may try to defend or apologize for the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses claiming that their leaders, their Governing Body, are imperfect and just men. Therefore, they of course make mistakes and errors.
However, does the organization present the instructions and directives of their leaders in such a light? Does the beliefs and doctrine of Jehovah's Witnesses come from failable men? Not according to their teachings and literature.
The September 15, 2010 Watchtower on page 13, paragraph 8 makes the following statements:
Not from men but from Jehovah is exactly how the organization has persistently and consistently presented its teaching and doctrine which is inclusive of their failed predictions, and flip-flops in beliefs.
Excusing them or their errors, false prophesying and outright lies as being the product of imperfect men does not stand up against what the organization to this day continues to indoctrinate to its members. Their beliefs and understanding comes from Jehovah, not from men.
However, does the organization present the instructions and directives of their leaders in such a light? Does the beliefs and doctrine of Jehovah's Witnesses come from failable men? Not according to their teachings and literature.
The September 15, 2010 Watchtower on page 13, paragraph 8 makes the following statements:
"The Governing Body publishes spiritually encouraging literature in many languages. This spiritual food is based on God's Word. Thus, what is taught is not from men but from Jehovah."
Not from men but from Jehovah is exactly how the organization has persistently and consistently presented its teaching and doctrine which is inclusive of their failed predictions, and flip-flops in beliefs.
Excusing them or their errors, false prophesying and outright lies as being the product of imperfect men does not stand up against what the organization to this day continues to indoctrinate to its members. Their beliefs and understanding comes from Jehovah, not from men.
Monday, August 2, 2010
The New Irish
The literature and discourses delivered to Jehovah's Witnesses and distributed by them have consistently and thoroughly bashed, insulted and attacked other religious faiths. Especially, this has been the case with the information pushed out from the Watchtower Society regarding Catholicism.
"Fear has a great hold on the people. People are afraid of what their neighbors, their friends, relatives and clergy might think if they were even so much as to read the Bible on their own. For centuries the clergy have dominated their lives, told them what they can read, what they should believe and do. To ask a sound religious question is a demonstration of lack of faith in God and the church, according to the clergy. As a result, the Irish people do very little independent thinking. They are victims of the clergy and fear; but freedom is in sight." [Watchtower, August 1, 1958, p. 460, 'Dawns a New Era for the Irish'].
"There was also the dreadful Inquisition. It was a system for spying out those who did not believe everything the Roman Catholic Church taught and yet were supposed to be Catholics." [From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, 1958, p. 167].
Respecting the above publication quotes, the organization as usual has come across as hypocritical. A brief review of some additional Watchtower Society publications demonstrates exactly how controlling and fear mongering the organization is to its members.
"As we study the Bible we learn that Jehovah has always guided his servants in an organized way. And just as in the first century there was only one true Christian organization, so today Jehovah is using only one organization. (Ephesians 4:4, 5; Matthew 24:45-47) Yet there are some who point out that the organization has had to make adjustments before, and so they argue: "This shows that we have to make up our own mind on what to believe." This is independent thinking. Why is it so dangerous? Such thinking is an evidence of pride. And the Bible says: "Pride is before a crash, and a haughty spirit before stumbling." (Proverbs 16:18) If we get to thinking that we know better than the organization, we should ask ourselves: "Where did we learn Bible truth in the first place? Would we know the way of the truth if it had not been for guidance from the organization? Really, can we get along without the direction of God's organization?" No, we cannot! -Compare Acts 15:2, 28, 29; 16:4, 5." [Watchtower, January 15, 1983, page 27, paragraphs 19 & 20, "Armed for the Fight Against Wicked Spirits"]
In the world, there is a tendency to reject leadership. As one lecturer said: "The rising education level has improved the talent pool such that followers have become so critical that they are almost impossible to lead." But a spirit of independent thinking does not prevail in God's organization, and we have sound reasons for confidence in the men taking the lead among us. - [Watchtower, September 15, 1989, page 23, paragraph 13, "Be Obedient to Those Taking the Lead"]
"How could one become guilty of partaking of the table of demons in our day? By serving the interests of anything opposed to Jehovah. The table of demons includes all demonic propaganda, which is designed to mislead and to turn us away from Jehovah. Who would want to feed his heart and mind on such poison?" [Watchtower, July 1, 1994, page 9].
"First, since “oneness” is to be observed, a mature Christian must be in unity and full harmony with fellow believers as far as faith and knowledge are concerned. He does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding. Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.” By regularly taking in the spiritual food provided “at the proper time”—through Christian publications, meetings, assemblies, and conventions—we can be sure that we maintain “oneness” with fellow Christians in faith and knowledge.—Matthew 24:45." [Watchtower, August 1, 2001 Issue, Page 14, Paragraph 8]
If we were to base statements with the same reasoning the Watchtower Society utilized towards the Catholic faith coupled with the facts on the organization's teachings, this is how the opening Watchtower comments would read:
"Fear has a great hold on the Witnesses. Witnesses are afraid of what their neighbors, their friends, relatives and Watchtower Society leaders might think if they were even so much as to read the Bible on their own. For over a century the Watchtower Society leaders have dominated their lives, told them what they can read, what they should believe and do. To ask a sound religious question is a demonstration of lack of faith in God and the organization, according to the Watchtower Society leaders. As a result, Jehovah's Witnesses do very little independent thinking. They are victims of the Watchtower Society leaders and fear; but freedom is in sight."
If you are one of Jehovah's Witnesses, is freedom in sight for you? It should be, just keep seeking knowledge and information. Do the research and discover the truth of the matters.
"Fear has a great hold on the people. People are afraid of what their neighbors, their friends, relatives and clergy might think if they were even so much as to read the Bible on their own. For centuries the clergy have dominated their lives, told them what they can read, what they should believe and do. To ask a sound religious question is a demonstration of lack of faith in God and the church, according to the clergy. As a result, the Irish people do very little independent thinking. They are victims of the clergy and fear; but freedom is in sight." [Watchtower, August 1, 1958, p. 460, 'Dawns a New Era for the Irish'].
"There was also the dreadful Inquisition. It was a system for spying out those who did not believe everything the Roman Catholic Church taught and yet were supposed to be Catholics." [From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, 1958, p. 167].
Respecting the above publication quotes, the organization as usual has come across as hypocritical. A brief review of some additional Watchtower Society publications demonstrates exactly how controlling and fear mongering the organization is to its members.
"As we study the Bible we learn that Jehovah has always guided his servants in an organized way. And just as in the first century there was only one true Christian organization, so today Jehovah is using only one organization. (Ephesians 4:4, 5; Matthew 24:45-47) Yet there are some who point out that the organization has had to make adjustments before, and so they argue: "This shows that we have to make up our own mind on what to believe." This is independent thinking. Why is it so dangerous? Such thinking is an evidence of pride. And the Bible says: "Pride is before a crash, and a haughty spirit before stumbling." (Proverbs 16:18) If we get to thinking that we know better than the organization, we should ask ourselves: "Where did we learn Bible truth in the first place? Would we know the way of the truth if it had not been for guidance from the organization? Really, can we get along without the direction of God's organization?" No, we cannot! -Compare Acts 15:2, 28, 29; 16:4, 5." [Watchtower, January 15, 1983, page 27, paragraphs 19 & 20, "Armed for the Fight Against Wicked Spirits"]
In the world, there is a tendency to reject leadership. As one lecturer said: "The rising education level has improved the talent pool such that followers have become so critical that they are almost impossible to lead." But a spirit of independent thinking does not prevail in God's organization, and we have sound reasons for confidence in the men taking the lead among us. - [Watchtower, September 15, 1989, page 23, paragraph 13, "Be Obedient to Those Taking the Lead"]
"How could one become guilty of partaking of the table of demons in our day? By serving the interests of anything opposed to Jehovah. The table of demons includes all demonic propaganda, which is designed to mislead and to turn us away from Jehovah. Who would want to feed his heart and mind on such poison?" [Watchtower, July 1, 1994, page 9].
"First, since “oneness” is to be observed, a mature Christian must be in unity and full harmony with fellow believers as far as faith and knowledge are concerned. He does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding. Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.” By regularly taking in the spiritual food provided “at the proper time”—through Christian publications, meetings, assemblies, and conventions—we can be sure that we maintain “oneness” with fellow Christians in faith and knowledge.—Matthew 24:45." [Watchtower, August 1, 2001 Issue, Page 14, Paragraph 8]
If we were to base statements with the same reasoning the Watchtower Society utilized towards the Catholic faith coupled with the facts on the organization's teachings, this is how the opening Watchtower comments would read:
"Fear has a great hold on the Witnesses. Witnesses are afraid of what their neighbors, their friends, relatives and Watchtower Society leaders might think if they were even so much as to read the Bible on their own. For over a century the Watchtower Society leaders have dominated their lives, told them what they can read, what they should believe and do. To ask a sound religious question is a demonstration of lack of faith in God and the organization, according to the Watchtower Society leaders. As a result, Jehovah's Witnesses do very little independent thinking. They are victims of the Watchtower Society leaders and fear; but freedom is in sight."
If you are one of Jehovah's Witnesses, is freedom in sight for you? It should be, just keep seeking knowledge and information. Do the research and discover the truth of the matters.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Mother
Jehovah's Witnesses are conditioned continuously not to question or disobey the organization. This kind of absolute obedience is something a parent may expect from their children. In fact, the Watchtower Society has painted themselves in that light to Jehovah's Witnesses.
"If we are to walk in the light of truth we must recognize not only Jehovah God as our Father but his organization as our mother," [Watchtower, May 1, 1957, page 274].
That kind of psychological conditioning of the members to be obedient, submissive children and in need of the organization continues throughout the years with similar articles. The November 15, 2009 Watchtower magazine in fact states on page 13, in paragraph 5:
"By word or action, may we never challenge the channel of communication that Jehovah is using today."
Indeed, "mother" has continuously led many of her unchallenging children with much behavioral conditioning, understanding, and twisted reasoning...
"Thus the Bible is an organizational book and belongs to the Christian congregation as an organization, not to individuals, regardless of how sincerely they may believe that they can interpret the Bible," [Watchtower, October 1, 1967, page 587].
"We all need help to understand the Bible, and we cannot find the Scriptural guidance we need outside the 'faithful and discreet slave' organization," [Watchtower, February 15, 1981].
"All who want to understand the Bible should appreciate that the "greatly diversified wisdom of God" can become known only through Jehovah's channel of communication, the faithful and discreet slave," [Watchtower, October 1, 1994, page 8].
This is one of the many problems with the so-called Governing Body concept of the Watchtower Society. Not only does the organization condition the members to see them as their mother, they also seek to take over Christ's role as mediator.
The Watchtower of November 15, 1979, page 26, made this comment:
"What, then, is Christ’s role in this program of salvation? Paul proceeds to say: “There is one God, and one mediator between God and men [not, all men], a man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a corresponding ransom for all.”—1 Tim. 2:5, 6."
The insertion "[not, all men]" is the Watchtower Society blatantly changing the meaning of the Bible and what it states. The scripture does not contain a "[not, all men]" statement, but the Watchtower Society included it since once again they want the members to see them as being the mediator for humans to God.
This point was stressed again in their publication, 'Worldwide Security Under the "Prince of Peace"' on page 10, paragraph 16:
“Likewise, the Greater Moses, Jesus Christ, is not the Mediator between Jehovah God and all mankind. He is the Mediator between his heavenly Father, Jehovah God, and the nation of spiritual Israel, which is limited to only 144,000 members.”
Furthermore, all of the 144,000 do not share in dispensing 'truths from God', but only a select few who call themselves the Governing Body that claims to be of a so-called 'faithful and discreet slave class'. They decide what Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe as truth and when it will be told to them.
Per Our Kingdom Ministry from September 2002, page 8, paragraph 5, under 'Avoid the Pursuit of "Valueless Things"' it states:
"Bear in mind that our heavenly Father has an appointed channel of communication, “the faithful and discreet slave.” That “slave” has the responsibility to determine what information is made available to the household of faith, as well as “the proper time” for it to be dispensed."
What and when Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe something as 'the truth' is all thanks to their "mother", the organization controlled by the Watchtower Society. The majority of Jehovah's Witnesses are told they don't even have Christ as their Mediator; rather, the organization fulfills that role as well. Jehovah's Witnesses are victims of a power hungry and abusive parent. They need to exit such a relationship, and leave the toxic mother seeking her own interest first.
"If we are to walk in the light of truth we must recognize not only Jehovah God as our Father but his organization as our mother," [Watchtower, May 1, 1957, page 274].
That kind of psychological conditioning of the members to be obedient, submissive children and in need of the organization continues throughout the years with similar articles. The November 15, 2009 Watchtower magazine in fact states on page 13, in paragraph 5:
"By word or action, may we never challenge the channel of communication that Jehovah is using today."
Indeed, "mother" has continuously led many of her unchallenging children with much behavioral conditioning, understanding, and twisted reasoning...
"Thus the Bible is an organizational book and belongs to the Christian congregation as an organization, not to individuals, regardless of how sincerely they may believe that they can interpret the Bible," [Watchtower, October 1, 1967, page 587].
"We all need help to understand the Bible, and we cannot find the Scriptural guidance we need outside the 'faithful and discreet slave' organization," [Watchtower, February 15, 1981].
"All who want to understand the Bible should appreciate that the "greatly diversified wisdom of God" can become known only through Jehovah's channel of communication, the faithful and discreet slave," [Watchtower, October 1, 1994, page 8].
This is one of the many problems with the so-called Governing Body concept of the Watchtower Society. Not only does the organization condition the members to see them as their mother, they also seek to take over Christ's role as mediator.
The Watchtower of November 15, 1979, page 26, made this comment:
"What, then, is Christ’s role in this program of salvation? Paul proceeds to say: “There is one God, and one mediator between God and men [not, all men], a man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a corresponding ransom for all.”—1 Tim. 2:5, 6."
The insertion "[not, all men]" is the Watchtower Society blatantly changing the meaning of the Bible and what it states. The scripture does not contain a "[not, all men]" statement, but the Watchtower Society included it since once again they want the members to see them as being the mediator for humans to God.
This point was stressed again in their publication, 'Worldwide Security Under the "Prince of Peace"' on page 10, paragraph 16:
“Likewise, the Greater Moses, Jesus Christ, is not the Mediator between Jehovah God and all mankind. He is the Mediator between his heavenly Father, Jehovah God, and the nation of spiritual Israel, which is limited to only 144,000 members.”
Furthermore, all of the 144,000 do not share in dispensing 'truths from God', but only a select few who call themselves the Governing Body that claims to be of a so-called 'faithful and discreet slave class'. They decide what Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe as truth and when it will be told to them.
Per Our Kingdom Ministry from September 2002, page 8, paragraph 5, under 'Avoid the Pursuit of "Valueless Things"' it states:
"Bear in mind that our heavenly Father has an appointed channel of communication, “the faithful and discreet slave.” That “slave” has the responsibility to determine what information is made available to the household of faith, as well as “the proper time” for it to be dispensed."
What and when Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to believe something as 'the truth' is all thanks to their "mother", the organization controlled by the Watchtower Society. The majority of Jehovah's Witnesses are told they don't even have Christ as their Mediator; rather, the organization fulfills that role as well. Jehovah's Witnesses are victims of a power hungry and abusive parent. They need to exit such a relationship, and leave the toxic mother seeking her own interest first.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
False Prophets - Part II: Creator's Promise
The history of the Watchtower Society from its early days of just being some 'bible students' to more modern times, by means of their literature through the organization they control, have produced numerous prophecies and predictions with a 100 percent fail rate. An outstanding one of these prophecies includes the organization having the audacity to claim it was God's promise to occur.
This is easily noted in the Awake! magazine masthead or mission statement as printed before November 1995. There it clearly and plainly states:
"Why AWAKE! Is Published ...Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure world before the generation that saw the events of 1914 passes away."
The Watchtower Society had Jehovah's Witnesses preach and proclaim for years it was God's promise that a peaceful and secure world would happen before the generation of 1914 passes away. After realizing time had caught up to their false prediction, starting with the November 1995, Awake! onward, the masthead was changed to read as:
"Why AWAKE! Is Published ... Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure world that is about to replace the present wicked, lawless system of things."
Using the Bible as the standard and bar for distinguishing and understanding a false prophet, Deuteronomy 18:20-22 states:
"'However, the prophet who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded him to speak or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. And in case you should say in your heart: “How shall we know the word that Jehovah has not spoken?” when the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word does not occur or come true, that is the word that Jehovah did not speak. With presumptuousness the prophet spoke it. You must not get frightened at him.'" [NWT]
The Watchtower Society spoke not just in the name of God, but said it was His promise. The word they spoke did not occur or come true.
Furthermore, though some many have lingering doubts or question whether the Watchtower Society ever claimed they were prophets, their literature clears any doubt and answers the question.
The Watchtower from March 15, 1972 makes this statement on page 189 from the bound volume:
"More accurately, was there any group on whom Jehovah would be willing to bestow the commission to speak as a 'prophet' in His name, as was done toward Ezekiel back there in 613 B.C.E.?"
The same Watchtower on page 190 goes on further:
"It is of importance to every individual on earth to identify the group that Jehovah has commissioned as his 'servant' or messenger.... For this reason forthcoming issues of The Watchtower will further discuss the identity and work of Jehovah's commissioned messenger as revealed in His vision to Ezekiel"
It is followed with the ultimate claim of being a prophet in the "forthcoming issue" of the Watchtower, from April 1, 1972, on page 197 it states:
"So, does Jehovah have a prophet to help them, to warn them of dangers and to declare things to come? These questions can be answered in the affirmative. Who is this prophet? ...This 'prophet' was not one man, but was a body of men and women. It was the small group of footstep followers of Jesus Christ, known at that time as International Bible Students. Today they are known as Jehovah's Christian witnesses... Of course, it is easy to say that this group acts as a 'prophet' of God. It is another thing to prove it. The only way that this can be done is to review the record. What does it show?"
Indisputably, the Watchtower Society has claimed that its organization contains prophets. Indeed, per their claims, Jehovah Witnesses are God's prophet in modern times.
The Bible states that Jesus provided this warning against false prophets in Matthew 7:15, 16:
“Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to YOU in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. By their fruits YOU will recognize them." [NWT]
The Watchtower Society's aforementioned spiritual fruitage regarding 1914 that it provided to its followers with the undeniable claim of it being a promise from God, makes them ravenous wolves in sheep's covering according to the Bible; false prophets in which no one should follow or obey their directions.
This is easily noted in the Awake! magazine masthead or mission statement as printed before November 1995. There it clearly and plainly states:
"Why AWAKE! Is Published ...Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure world before the generation that saw the events of 1914 passes away."
The Watchtower Society had Jehovah's Witnesses preach and proclaim for years it was God's promise that a peaceful and secure world would happen before the generation of 1914 passes away. After realizing time had caught up to their false prediction, starting with the November 1995, Awake! onward, the masthead was changed to read as:
"Why AWAKE! Is Published ... Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure world that is about to replace the present wicked, lawless system of things."
Using the Bible as the standard and bar for distinguishing and understanding a false prophet, Deuteronomy 18:20-22 states:
"'However, the prophet who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded him to speak or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. And in case you should say in your heart: “How shall we know the word that Jehovah has not spoken?” when the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word does not occur or come true, that is the word that Jehovah did not speak. With presumptuousness the prophet spoke it. You must not get frightened at him.'" [NWT]
The Watchtower Society spoke not just in the name of God, but said it was His promise. The word they spoke did not occur or come true.
Furthermore, though some many have lingering doubts or question whether the Watchtower Society ever claimed they were prophets, their literature clears any doubt and answers the question.
The Watchtower from March 15, 1972 makes this statement on page 189 from the bound volume:
"More accurately, was there any group on whom Jehovah would be willing to bestow the commission to speak as a 'prophet' in His name, as was done toward Ezekiel back there in 613 B.C.E.?"
The same Watchtower on page 190 goes on further:
"It is of importance to every individual on earth to identify the group that Jehovah has commissioned as his 'servant' or messenger.... For this reason forthcoming issues of The Watchtower will further discuss the identity and work of Jehovah's commissioned messenger as revealed in His vision to Ezekiel"
It is followed with the ultimate claim of being a prophet in the "forthcoming issue" of the Watchtower, from April 1, 1972, on page 197 it states:
"So, does Jehovah have a prophet to help them, to warn them of dangers and to declare things to come? These questions can be answered in the affirmative. Who is this prophet? ...This 'prophet' was not one man, but was a body of men and women. It was the small group of footstep followers of Jesus Christ, known at that time as International Bible Students. Today they are known as Jehovah's Christian witnesses... Of course, it is easy to say that this group acts as a 'prophet' of God. It is another thing to prove it. The only way that this can be done is to review the record. What does it show?"
Indisputably, the Watchtower Society has claimed that its organization contains prophets. Indeed, per their claims, Jehovah Witnesses are God's prophet in modern times.
The Bible states that Jesus provided this warning against false prophets in Matthew 7:15, 16:
“Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to YOU in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. By their fruits YOU will recognize them." [NWT]
The Watchtower Society's aforementioned spiritual fruitage regarding 1914 that it provided to its followers with the undeniable claim of it being a promise from God, makes them ravenous wolves in sheep's covering according to the Bible; false prophets in which no one should follow or obey their directions.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Governing Body = Jesus Christ
The September 15, 2010, Watchtower, page 23, second column:
"The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modern-day Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ."
That's what they call a CULT LEADER. It was only a matter of time for the Watchtower Society to come out and make such a statement. The time has come. In the Jehovah's Witness mind what is being indoctrinated is following the men in Brooklyn equals following Jesus Christ.
Matthew 24: 24, 25: "For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will give great signs and wonders so as to mislead, if possible, even the chosen ones. Look! I have forewarned YOU" - [New World Translation]
"The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modern-day Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ."
That's what they call a CULT LEADER. It was only a matter of time for the Watchtower Society to come out and make such a statement. The time has come. In the Jehovah's Witness mind what is being indoctrinated is following the men in Brooklyn equals following Jesus Christ.
Matthew 24: 24, 25: "For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will give great signs and wonders so as to mislead, if possible, even the chosen ones. Look! I have forewarned YOU" - [New World Translation]
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
One-Sided Argument
The one-sided argument is continuously presented to Jehovah's Witnesses due to the Watchtower Society. Only the reasons and ideas supporting the religion are allowed to be viewed by its members. Members are highly discouraged, and trained to think God wants them to avoid critical information regarding anything associated with the organization.
This is a variant of the logical and argument fallacy known as Special Pleading. This illogical and false reasoning is taught and ingrained into the mind of Jehovah's Witnesses as a result of the indoctrination received through discourses and literature of the Watchtower Society.
Let's take note of some examples:
Watchtower, June 1, 1967, page 338:
"In Jehovah's organization it is not necessary to spend a lot of time and energy in research, for there are brothers in the organization who are assigned to that very thing?"
Watchtower, November 1, 1987, page 20:
"False religious propaganda from any source should be avoided like poison! Really, since our Lord has used "the faithful and discreet slave" to convey to us "sayings of everlasting life," why should we ever want to look anywhere else?"
Watchtower, July 1, 1994, pages 12-13:
"As loyal servants of Jehovah, why would we want to peek at the propaganda put out by rejecters of Jehovah's table..."
Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 28:
"It would be a mistake to think that you need to listen to apostates or to read their writings to refute their arguments. Their twisted, poisonous reasoning can cause spiritual harm and can contaminate your faith like rapidly spreading gangrene."
Our Kingdom Ministry, Question Box, September 2007:
"Throughout the earth, Jehovah’s people are receiving ample spiritual instruction and encouragement at congregation meetings, assemblies, and conventions, as well as through the publications of Jehovah’s organization. Under the guidance of his holy spirit and on the basis of his Word of truth, Jehovah provides what is needed so that all of God’s people may be “fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought” and remain “stabilized in the faith.” (1 Cor. 1:10; Col. 2:6, 7) Surely we are grateful for Jehovah’s spiritual provisions in these last days. Thus, “the faithful and discreet slave” does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight.—Matt. 24:45-47.”
Imagine this logic and way of thinking being applied in other aspects of life.
For instance, say I held a certain political view and party called 'The True Government'. As a faithful follower and supporter of 'The True Government', I told you never to listen to any of the other political parties, that it is unnecessary, besides you will be poisoned by their way of thinking. Furthermore, avoid any negative information about 'The True Government' as well, and anyone else who is not a member of 'The True Government' political party. 'The True Government' members are the only ones with the truth, facts and the right way to govern things. What would you do?
How about if you are a parent and your child wants to join a club called 'Club Wholesome'. However, your child is instructed not to listen to anything negative about the club and to especially avoid anyone who is a former member and has left 'Club Wholesome'. What if the current members of that club spoke disparagingly of its former members and stated everything negative spoken or written about the club is just a pack of lies. Additionally, 'Club Wholesome' has provided to your child a ton of information showing how wonderful the club is and outlined a beautiful plan for its members. What would you do as a parent?
Or even something as simple of shopping. You have a manufacturer called 'The Best' telling you their products are the best and the only ones that are truly reliable and dependable. Most of the negative reports and information about their products are just angry former consumers who could not understand the products or refuse to use their products as they were instructed. In fact, don't even listen to the negative reviews or reports of their products. The additional negative press from those not former consumers of their products is due to someone or something evil influencing people and information to attack their product. 'The Best' products are the only products you should need and utilize. As a consumer, what do you do?
If you apply the Jehovah's Witnesses instruction and indoctrination these are likely outcomes:
-Respecting government and political views you would only listen to 'The True Government' and remain as an active supporter of their views and way of governing. You refuse to listen to any other political party or any viewpoint which goes contrary to the leaders of 'The True Government' or its way of governing.
-As a parent, you allow your child to join 'Club Wholesome' as all the things you have heard from its members and its literature sounds and appears to be wonderful. You have avoided hearing or reading anything negative or critical about the club. You believe its all lies anyway, despite not listening or reading any of it.
-Being a consumer, you would happily and whole-heartedly support 'The Best' manufacturer avoiding any other products from any other manufacturer. After all 'The Best' is 'the best'; and you 'know' everything else manufactured is defective and corrupt in some way. You believe 'The Best' makes and provides all you need.
Does the above read as sensible? Does the above sound rationale or reasonable? Is any of the above a wise course to take or even an educated and informed decision to make in any area of life?
Sadly, this kind of logic and thinking is all too prevalent among Jehovah's Witnesses. And as the aforementioned Watchtower Society publications prove, this type of viewpoint and attitude is fed as truth and being of God's directive through the organization.
If you happen to encounter or try to reason with a Jehovah's Witness, remember it is highly likely you are trying to reach someone who is set in their way from being indoctrinated to believe and listen to one-side of the argument, and one-side of the argument only... The one they have been trained to believe is 'the truth'.
This is a variant of the logical and argument fallacy known as Special Pleading. This illogical and false reasoning is taught and ingrained into the mind of Jehovah's Witnesses as a result of the indoctrination received through discourses and literature of the Watchtower Society.
Let's take note of some examples:
Watchtower, June 1, 1967, page 338:
"In Jehovah's organization it is not necessary to spend a lot of time and energy in research, for there are brothers in the organization who are assigned to that very thing?"
Watchtower, November 1, 1987, page 20:
"False religious propaganda from any source should be avoided like poison! Really, since our Lord has used "the faithful and discreet slave" to convey to us "sayings of everlasting life," why should we ever want to look anywhere else?"
Watchtower, July 1, 1994, pages 12-13:
"As loyal servants of Jehovah, why would we want to peek at the propaganda put out by rejecters of Jehovah's table..."
Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 28:
"It would be a mistake to think that you need to listen to apostates or to read their writings to refute their arguments. Their twisted, poisonous reasoning can cause spiritual harm and can contaminate your faith like rapidly spreading gangrene."
Our Kingdom Ministry, Question Box, September 2007:
"Throughout the earth, Jehovah’s people are receiving ample spiritual instruction and encouragement at congregation meetings, assemblies, and conventions, as well as through the publications of Jehovah’s organization. Under the guidance of his holy spirit and on the basis of his Word of truth, Jehovah provides what is needed so that all of God’s people may be “fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought” and remain “stabilized in the faith.” (1 Cor. 1:10; Col. 2:6, 7) Surely we are grateful for Jehovah’s spiritual provisions in these last days. Thus, “the faithful and discreet slave” does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight.—Matt. 24:45-47.”
Imagine this logic and way of thinking being applied in other aspects of life.
For instance, say I held a certain political view and party called 'The True Government'. As a faithful follower and supporter of 'The True Government', I told you never to listen to any of the other political parties, that it is unnecessary, besides you will be poisoned by their way of thinking. Furthermore, avoid any negative information about 'The True Government' as well, and anyone else who is not a member of 'The True Government' political party. 'The True Government' members are the only ones with the truth, facts and the right way to govern things. What would you do?
How about if you are a parent and your child wants to join a club called 'Club Wholesome'. However, your child is instructed not to listen to anything negative about the club and to especially avoid anyone who is a former member and has left 'Club Wholesome'. What if the current members of that club spoke disparagingly of its former members and stated everything negative spoken or written about the club is just a pack of lies. Additionally, 'Club Wholesome' has provided to your child a ton of information showing how wonderful the club is and outlined a beautiful plan for its members. What would you do as a parent?
Or even something as simple of shopping. You have a manufacturer called 'The Best' telling you their products are the best and the only ones that are truly reliable and dependable. Most of the negative reports and information about their products are just angry former consumers who could not understand the products or refuse to use their products as they were instructed. In fact, don't even listen to the negative reviews or reports of their products. The additional negative press from those not former consumers of their products is due to someone or something evil influencing people and information to attack their product. 'The Best' products are the only products you should need and utilize. As a consumer, what do you do?
If you apply the Jehovah's Witnesses instruction and indoctrination these are likely outcomes:
-Respecting government and political views you would only listen to 'The True Government' and remain as an active supporter of their views and way of governing. You refuse to listen to any other political party or any viewpoint which goes contrary to the leaders of 'The True Government' or its way of governing.
-As a parent, you allow your child to join 'Club Wholesome' as all the things you have heard from its members and its literature sounds and appears to be wonderful. You have avoided hearing or reading anything negative or critical about the club. You believe its all lies anyway, despite not listening or reading any of it.
-Being a consumer, you would happily and whole-heartedly support 'The Best' manufacturer avoiding any other products from any other manufacturer. After all 'The Best' is 'the best'; and you 'know' everything else manufactured is defective and corrupt in some way. You believe 'The Best' makes and provides all you need.
Does the above read as sensible? Does the above sound rationale or reasonable? Is any of the above a wise course to take or even an educated and informed decision to make in any area of life?
Sadly, this kind of logic and thinking is all too prevalent among Jehovah's Witnesses. And as the aforementioned Watchtower Society publications prove, this type of viewpoint and attitude is fed as truth and being of God's directive through the organization.
If you happen to encounter or try to reason with a Jehovah's Witness, remember it is highly likely you are trying to reach someone who is set in their way from being indoctrinated to believe and listen to one-side of the argument, and one-side of the argument only... The one they have been trained to believe is 'the truth'.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Thank The Adventist
It never ceases to amaze, the double talk or speaking out of both sides of their mouth you will find so prevalent among the literature, reasoning of doctrine, and information when looking into the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Take for instance, the Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses from 1975 on pages 34-35, under 'Part 1 - 'United States of America':
"By his own later admission, he had been “shaken in faith regarding many long-accepted doctrines” and had fallen “a ready prey to the logic of infidelity.” But tonight he is attracted by some singing. He enters a dusty, dingy hall. His object? In his own words, “to see if the handful who met there had anything more sensible to offer than the creeds of the great churches.”
The young man sat and listened. Jonas Wendell, a Second Adventist, delivered the sermon. “His Scripture exposition was not entirely clear,” our listener later remarked. But it did something. He had to admit: “It was sufficient, under God, to reestablish my wavering faith in the Divine inspiration of the Bible, and to show that the records of the Apostles and the Prophets are indissolubly linked. What I heard sent me to my Bible to study with more zeal and care than ever before.”
The inquisitive young man was Charles Taze Russell."
Interestingly, you will note that it was listening to an Adventist sermon which reestablished the faith of the ultimate founder of the organization known today as Jehovah's Witnesses. Do you think such a recommendation should be provided by Jehovah's Witnesses today to (re)establish one's faith in the Bible? Should an individual attend and listen to other religious sermons, such as an Adventist to help a person study the Bible 'with more zeal and care than ever before'?
Obviously, such a notion or thought by a member of the Watchtower Society would be borderline if not direct so-called 'interfaith' and possibly considered 'apostate' by the organization. So what is the logical and non-contradicting reasoning as to why it is seen as acceptable to have walked the path that Charles Taze Russell took, but not by other individual members who are known today as Jehovah's Witnesses?
This goes hand in hand with another point. Does God work through an organization or specific individual persons? Asking a Jehovah's Witnesses today, in harmony with the indoctrination they receive; in no uncertain terms stipulate that being a member and follower of the organization is a requirement by God. That is the only way to receive 'truth'.
Watchtower, January 15, 1997, page 22, paragraphs 21:
“We must serve Jehovah with his spirit-directed organization."
Watchtower, January 15, 2010, pages 28-32, paragraph 15:
"Each of us would do well to ask himself: 'Do I fully recognize the responsibilities that I should shoulder within the Christian congregation? Am I properly supporting Jehovah's way of governing? Am I proud to be a subject of Jehovah's ruling Kingdom? Am I determined to continue telling others about God's Kingdom to the extent that I reasonably can?' As a group, we willingly submit ourselves to the direction given by the Governing Body and cooperate with the appointed elders in the congregations. In such ways, we demonstrate our acceptance of God's way of ruling."
Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, page 3, Question Box:
"Does the "faithful and discreet slave" endorse independent groups of Witnesses who meet together to engage in Scriptural research or debate?
No, it does not."
Watchtower, August 15, 1981, page 29, paragraph 14:"They say that it is sufficient to read the Bible exclusively, either alone or in small groups at home. But, strangely, through such ‘Bible reading,' they have reverted right back to the apostate doctrines that commentaries by Christendom's clergy were teaching 100 years ago..."
The problem presented compounds itself when, depending on the publication and time you reference Jehovah's Witnesses publications, you will receive different and contradicitng statements on the matter at hand.
For example, the Watchtower magazine from January 15, 1975 on pages 46 & 47, as well as the publication 'You Can Live Forever' on page 193, stress that it was always a group, a close unified group or family not scattered individuals that God was refining. However, if one was to reference the Watchtower from July 15, 1960 on page 435 or the 'Proclaimers' book on page 44, it stipulates that God was refining and working through scattered individuals.
So which one is it, has God always directed truth through individuals, as in the case of Charles Taze Russell and even directing one's faith through other religious organizations, or is it always a group and never with an individual? If for a time God worked with an individual and 'now' only works with an organization, when and why did the change take place? What is the logical explanation and reasoning? What is the stipulation, exact moment or occasion when God stopped working through one man like Charles Taze Russell, who started a movement in which a result of it is the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses; and instead, feeds 'truth' and provides 'truth' only through an organization where one must be a part of?
Does God work only through an organization where the Bible cannot be understood or interpreted by individuals, regardless of the amount of Bible reading they perform, as indicated in the October 1, 1994, Watchtower on page 8, and in the publication 'You Can Live Forever' on page 193?
Is it through an individual, such as Charles Taze Russell, the ability is given to comprehend and interpret scripture? Does God work truly like he did, allegedly though Russell, to restore truth which was lost for centuries? The publication 'Jehovah's Witnesses In The Divine Plan', on page 17, states about Charles Taze Russell:
"He revived the great truths...He was permitted to understand it…The promise of the Lord was fulfilled in him.”
Remember, without Russell there is no religion of Jehovah's Witnesses as it is known today. Additionally, there was no 'Governing Body' as it exists today within the Watchtower Society until the mid-1970's. Shortly after the whole 1975 fiasco it obtained the power and control it wields today. Prior to that, it was the Watchtower Society president who exercised complete control of doctrines, publications and activities of the organization. Nevertheless, asking the question again, does God work through individuals or an organization, one thing is for sure...
Jehovah's Witnesses need to thank the Adventist for reestablishing the faith of Charles Taze Russell. Thanks to the Adventist for restoring Russell's faith in the Bible. The 'truth' is thanks to the Adventist for providing a catalyst to the man who would be the beginnings and leader of an offshoot religion which is known today as Jehovah's Witnesses.
Take for instance, the Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses from 1975 on pages 34-35, under 'Part 1 - 'United States of America':
"By his own later admission, he had been “shaken in faith regarding many long-accepted doctrines” and had fallen “a ready prey to the logic of infidelity.” But tonight he is attracted by some singing. He enters a dusty, dingy hall. His object? In his own words, “to see if the handful who met there had anything more sensible to offer than the creeds of the great churches.”
The young man sat and listened. Jonas Wendell, a Second Adventist, delivered the sermon. “His Scripture exposition was not entirely clear,” our listener later remarked. But it did something. He had to admit: “It was sufficient, under God, to reestablish my wavering faith in the Divine inspiration of the Bible, and to show that the records of the Apostles and the Prophets are indissolubly linked. What I heard sent me to my Bible to study with more zeal and care than ever before.”
The inquisitive young man was Charles Taze Russell."
Interestingly, you will note that it was listening to an Adventist sermon which reestablished the faith of the ultimate founder of the organization known today as Jehovah's Witnesses. Do you think such a recommendation should be provided by Jehovah's Witnesses today to (re)establish one's faith in the Bible? Should an individual attend and listen to other religious sermons, such as an Adventist to help a person study the Bible 'with more zeal and care than ever before'?
Obviously, such a notion or thought by a member of the Watchtower Society would be borderline if not direct so-called 'interfaith' and possibly considered 'apostate' by the organization. So what is the logical and non-contradicting reasoning as to why it is seen as acceptable to have walked the path that Charles Taze Russell took, but not by other individual members who are known today as Jehovah's Witnesses?
This goes hand in hand with another point. Does God work through an organization or specific individual persons? Asking a Jehovah's Witnesses today, in harmony with the indoctrination they receive; in no uncertain terms stipulate that being a member and follower of the organization is a requirement by God. That is the only way to receive 'truth'.
Watchtower, January 15, 1997, page 22, paragraphs 21:
“We must serve Jehovah with his spirit-directed organization."
Watchtower, January 15, 2010, pages 28-32, paragraph 15:
"Each of us would do well to ask himself: 'Do I fully recognize the responsibilities that I should shoulder within the Christian congregation? Am I properly supporting Jehovah's way of governing? Am I proud to be a subject of Jehovah's ruling Kingdom? Am I determined to continue telling others about God's Kingdom to the extent that I reasonably can?' As a group, we willingly submit ourselves to the direction given by the Governing Body and cooperate with the appointed elders in the congregations. In such ways, we demonstrate our acceptance of God's way of ruling."
Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, page 3, Question Box:
"Does the "faithful and discreet slave" endorse independent groups of Witnesses who meet together to engage in Scriptural research or debate?
No, it does not."
Watchtower, August 15, 1981, page 29, paragraph 14:"They say that it is sufficient to read the Bible exclusively, either alone or in small groups at home. But, strangely, through such ‘Bible reading,' they have reverted right back to the apostate doctrines that commentaries by Christendom's clergy were teaching 100 years ago..."
The problem presented compounds itself when, depending on the publication and time you reference Jehovah's Witnesses publications, you will receive different and contradicitng statements on the matter at hand.
For example, the Watchtower magazine from January 15, 1975 on pages 46 & 47, as well as the publication 'You Can Live Forever' on page 193, stress that it was always a group, a close unified group or family not scattered individuals that God was refining. However, if one was to reference the Watchtower from July 15, 1960 on page 435 or the 'Proclaimers' book on page 44, it stipulates that God was refining and working through scattered individuals.
So which one is it, has God always directed truth through individuals, as in the case of Charles Taze Russell and even directing one's faith through other religious organizations, or is it always a group and never with an individual? If for a time God worked with an individual and 'now' only works with an organization, when and why did the change take place? What is the logical explanation and reasoning? What is the stipulation, exact moment or occasion when God stopped working through one man like Charles Taze Russell, who started a movement in which a result of it is the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses; and instead, feeds 'truth' and provides 'truth' only through an organization where one must be a part of?
Does God work only through an organization where the Bible cannot be understood or interpreted by individuals, regardless of the amount of Bible reading they perform, as indicated in the October 1, 1994, Watchtower on page 8, and in the publication 'You Can Live Forever' on page 193?
Is it through an individual, such as Charles Taze Russell, the ability is given to comprehend and interpret scripture? Does God work truly like he did, allegedly though Russell, to restore truth which was lost for centuries? The publication 'Jehovah's Witnesses In The Divine Plan', on page 17, states about Charles Taze Russell:
"He revived the great truths...He was permitted to understand it…The promise of the Lord was fulfilled in him.”
Remember, without Russell there is no religion of Jehovah's Witnesses as it is known today. Additionally, there was no 'Governing Body' as it exists today within the Watchtower Society until the mid-1970's. Shortly after the whole 1975 fiasco it obtained the power and control it wields today. Prior to that, it was the Watchtower Society president who exercised complete control of doctrines, publications and activities of the organization. Nevertheless, asking the question again, does God work through individuals or an organization, one thing is for sure...
Jehovah's Witnesses need to thank the Adventist for reestablishing the faith of Charles Taze Russell. Thanks to the Adventist for restoring Russell's faith in the Bible. The 'truth' is thanks to the Adventist for providing a catalyst to the man who would be the beginnings and leader of an offshoot religion which is known today as Jehovah's Witnesses.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Live Up To Your Dedication
On May 16, 2010, Jehovah’s Witnesses studied and was taught from the March 15, 2010, Watchtower magazine. The article utilized is entitled, ‘Walk By Spirit And Live Up To Your Dedication’. It is found on pages 14-18 of the aforementioned publication.
This leads us to the discussion to what do Jehovah’s Witnesses dedicate themselves? Prior to 1985, before a person’s baptism into becoming a member, two questions were asked which needed to be answered in the affirmative. These questions can be found in the Watchtower, May 1, 1973, page 280, paragraph 25, under ‘Baptizing Follows Discipling’, which states the following:
“If you feel the same about serving Jehovah God and taking Christ’s yoke upon you, we suggest that you consider the following two questions, which are asked of candidates for baptism:
(1) Have you repented of your sins and turned around, recognizing yourself before Jehovah God as a condemned sinner who needs salvation, and have you acknowledged to him that this salvation proceeds from him, the Father, through his Son Jesus Christ?
(2) On the basis of this faith in God and in his provision for salvation, have you dedicated yourself unreservedly to God to do his will henceforth as he reveals it to you through Jesus Christ and through the Bible under the enlightening power of the holy spirit?”
The questions appear fair and straightforward enough in understanding one’s dedication would be to the Father [Jehovah], the Son [Jesus Christ] and the Holy Spirit. To the Watchtower Society’s credit, this could also be seen to harmonize with the scripture found in Mathew 28:19. As translated in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, it states:
“Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit”.
However, after the fallout of the Watchtower Society falsely leading and indoctrinating members to believe Armageddon was to occur in 1975, there was a huge lost in membership. In the early 1980’s refinements were made to place a stronger hold on the members and for there to be greater ownership and accountability of the members to the Watchtower Society.
A consequence of this was revised questions in which a person must still answer in the affirmative in order to be baptized. The questions can be found in the Watchtower from June 1, 1985. On page 30 under ‘Subjecting Ourselves To Jehovah By Dedication’ the following is stated:
“At the close of the convention baptism talk, the baptism candidates will be in position to answer with depth of understanding and heartfelt appreciation two simple questions that serve to confirm that they recognize the implications of following Christ’s example.
The first question is:
On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?
The second is:
Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization?”
Notice the second question. The Watchtower Society has completely removed the Holy Spirit and in turn leaves a person bound as a member of the Watchtower organization. Slyly, since the year 1985, people who become a dedicated member of Jehovah’s Witnesses have been baptized, not in the name of the Holy Spirit (As stipulated in the Bible), but in the name of a so-called ‘spirit-directed organization’. Interestingly, there is no mention in these updated questions of this baptism identifying them as Christian, but strictly a Jehovah’s Witness; a member of the organization controlled by the Watchtower Society.
Therefore, are Jehovah’s Witnesses dedicated to God in the same manner as first century Christians? Is a Jehovah’s Witnesses baptism biblical, and by whose authority does such a baptism leave one under? Is one when baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Clearly, by the organization’s publication and practice, one is dedicating themselves in the name of Jehovah, Jesus and the Watchtower Society. Is that a dedication anyone should desire to live up to?
According to the Watchtower Society, dedication to their organization is required by God and they are the only true Christian religion as shown in the Watchtower, January 15, 1997, page 22, paragraphs 21-22, under ‘What Does God Require Of Us?’:
“This brings us to the fourth requirement. We must serve Jehovah with his spirit-directed organization. How, though, can God’s organized people be identified? According to the standards set out in the Scriptures, they have real love among themselves, they have deep respect for the Bible, they honor God’s name, they preach about his Kingdom, and they are no part of this wicked world. (Matthew 6:9; 24:14; John 13:34, 35; 17:16, 17) There is only one religious organization on this earth that has all these marks of true Christianity—Jehovah’s Witnesses!”
It is required to be members of the Watchtower organization. If one was to research the origin and background of Jehovah's Witnesses, they would find it to be one whose fondation started in the late 1800’s with a history of doctrinal flip-flops and false prophesy. Nevertheless, this is what God requires and what Jehovah’s Witnesses are indoctrinated to live up to in dedication, according to the Watchtower Society…Despite what the Bible states.
This leads us to the discussion to what do Jehovah’s Witnesses dedicate themselves? Prior to 1985, before a person’s baptism into becoming a member, two questions were asked which needed to be answered in the affirmative. These questions can be found in the Watchtower, May 1, 1973, page 280, paragraph 25, under ‘Baptizing Follows Discipling’, which states the following:
“If you feel the same about serving Jehovah God and taking Christ’s yoke upon you, we suggest that you consider the following two questions, which are asked of candidates for baptism:
(1) Have you repented of your sins and turned around, recognizing yourself before Jehovah God as a condemned sinner who needs salvation, and have you acknowledged to him that this salvation proceeds from him, the Father, through his Son Jesus Christ?
(2) On the basis of this faith in God and in his provision for salvation, have you dedicated yourself unreservedly to God to do his will henceforth as he reveals it to you through Jesus Christ and through the Bible under the enlightening power of the holy spirit?”
The questions appear fair and straightforward enough in understanding one’s dedication would be to the Father [Jehovah], the Son [Jesus Christ] and the Holy Spirit. To the Watchtower Society’s credit, this could also be seen to harmonize with the scripture found in Mathew 28:19. As translated in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, it states:
“Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit”.
However, after the fallout of the Watchtower Society falsely leading and indoctrinating members to believe Armageddon was to occur in 1975, there was a huge lost in membership. In the early 1980’s refinements were made to place a stronger hold on the members and for there to be greater ownership and accountability of the members to the Watchtower Society.
A consequence of this was revised questions in which a person must still answer in the affirmative in order to be baptized. The questions can be found in the Watchtower from June 1, 1985. On page 30 under ‘Subjecting Ourselves To Jehovah By Dedication’ the following is stated:
“At the close of the convention baptism talk, the baptism candidates will be in position to answer with depth of understanding and heartfelt appreciation two simple questions that serve to confirm that they recognize the implications of following Christ’s example.
The first question is:
On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?
The second is:
Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization?”
Notice the second question. The Watchtower Society has completely removed the Holy Spirit and in turn leaves a person bound as a member of the Watchtower organization. Slyly, since the year 1985, people who become a dedicated member of Jehovah’s Witnesses have been baptized, not in the name of the Holy Spirit (As stipulated in the Bible), but in the name of a so-called ‘spirit-directed organization’. Interestingly, there is no mention in these updated questions of this baptism identifying them as Christian, but strictly a Jehovah’s Witness; a member of the organization controlled by the Watchtower Society.
Therefore, are Jehovah’s Witnesses dedicated to God in the same manner as first century Christians? Is a Jehovah’s Witnesses baptism biblical, and by whose authority does such a baptism leave one under? Is one when baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Clearly, by the organization’s publication and practice, one is dedicating themselves in the name of Jehovah, Jesus and the Watchtower Society. Is that a dedication anyone should desire to live up to?
According to the Watchtower Society, dedication to their organization is required by God and they are the only true Christian religion as shown in the Watchtower, January 15, 1997, page 22, paragraphs 21-22, under ‘What Does God Require Of Us?’:
“This brings us to the fourth requirement. We must serve Jehovah with his spirit-directed organization. How, though, can God’s organized people be identified? According to the standards set out in the Scriptures, they have real love among themselves, they have deep respect for the Bible, they honor God’s name, they preach about his Kingdom, and they are no part of this wicked world. (Matthew 6:9; 24:14; John 13:34, 35; 17:16, 17) There is only one religious organization on this earth that has all these marks of true Christianity—Jehovah’s Witnesses!”
It is required to be members of the Watchtower organization. If one was to research the origin and background of Jehovah's Witnesses, they would find it to be one whose fondation started in the late 1800’s with a history of doctrinal flip-flops and false prophesy. Nevertheless, this is what God requires and what Jehovah’s Witnesses are indoctrinated to live up to in dedication, according to the Watchtower Society…Despite what the Bible states.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
End Question
Does "new light" excuse false prophecy?
"From a purely human viewpoint, it could appear that these developments could hardly take place before the generation of 1914 disappears from the scene. But fulfillment of all the foretold events affecting the generation of 1914 does not depend on comparatively slow human action. Jehovah's prophetic word through Jesus Christ is: 'This generation [of 1914] will by no means pass away until all things occur.' (Luke 21:32) And Jehovah, who is the source of inspired and unfailing prophecy, will bring about the fulfillment of his Son's words in a relatively short time.--Isaiah 46:9,10; 55:10,11."
--The Watchtower, May 15, 1984, pages 6-7
Note: The expression "[of 1914]" is in the original Watchtower text.
“‘However, the prophet who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded him to speak or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. And in case you should say in your heart: “How shall we know the word that Jehovah has not spoken?” when the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word does not occur or come true, that is the word that Jehovah did not speak. With presumptuousness the prophet spoke it. You must not get frightened at him.’"
--New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures - Deuteronomy 18:20-22.
"From a purely human viewpoint, it could appear that these developments could hardly take place before the generation of 1914 disappears from the scene. But fulfillment of all the foretold events affecting the generation of 1914 does not depend on comparatively slow human action. Jehovah's prophetic word through Jesus Christ is: 'This generation [of 1914] will by no means pass away until all things occur.' (Luke 21:32) And Jehovah, who is the source of inspired and unfailing prophecy, will bring about the fulfillment of his Son's words in a relatively short time.--Isaiah 46:9,10; 55:10,11."
--The Watchtower, May 15, 1984, pages 6-7
Note: The expression "[of 1914]" is in the original Watchtower text.
“‘However, the prophet who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded him to speak or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. And in case you should say in your heart: “How shall we know the word that Jehovah has not spoken?” when the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word does not occur or come true, that is the word that Jehovah did not speak. With presumptuousness the prophet spoke it. You must not get frightened at him.’"
--New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures - Deuteronomy 18:20-22.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Blood Guilty
To this day, Watchtower Society's doctrine still prohibits blood transfusions. A doctrine enforced that is actually rooted back to the days in which C.T. Russell's teachings were desired to be overturned, during the reign of second Watchtower Society president, J.F. Rutherford. This same notion stuck with succeeding Watchtower Society presidents, including Knorr and Franz.
Though Franz was well-known among many old timers in the organization to be the author of many of the books printed by the Watchtower Society, little is known about other contributors to doctrinal changes. One of these men is Gene Smalley. He is the author of this 'new light' (As opposed to C.T. Russell's 'old light') on blood transfusions.
There continued to be 'refinements' of this Watchtower Society doctrine as a result of the inaccuracy of research performed by the organization. More so, changes have been implemented due to the legal ramifications in modern times.
Furthermore, many countries have been issued public relations statements that would give the appearance that Jehovah's Witnesses are not prohibited by the organization from having blood transfusions. Nonetheless, if they make the personal 'choice' to have a blood transfusion, they are disfellowshipped and shunned. Of course, this is not mentioned in the information provided to the public.
Here's a list of some Watchtower Society publications and the stance respecting the organization's doctrine and teachings of blood:
12/25/1940 - Consolation, page 19: Blood transfusions permitted.
07/01/1945 - Watchtower, page 201: Blood officially banned.
01/08/1954 - Awake!, page 24: Disallowed the use of blood fractions.
09/15/1958 - Watchtower, page 575: Changed policy allows use of blood fractions.
10/15/1959 - Watchtower, page 640: No storage of blood before an operation.
09/15/1961 - Watchtower, pages 558-599: Disallowed blood fractions.
02/22/1975 - Awake!, page 30: Hemophilia treatment condemned.
06/15/1978 - Watchtower, pages 29-31: Hemophilia treatments allowed.
06/15/1985 - Watchtower, page 30: Factor VIII not allowed.
03/01/1989 - Watchtower, pages 30 & 31: Blood outside body permitted using dialysis.
06/15/2000 - Watchtower, pages 29-31: Blood fractions from blood components allowed.
Besides the current no blood transfusion stance which started under the Rutherford Reign in the mid-40s, notice the other following oddities...
Blood Fractions:
No = 1954
Yes = 1958
No = 1961
Yes = 2000
Hemophilia treatments:
No = 1975
Yes = 1978
Apparently, according to Watchtower Society teachings during the mid-70's God had a disdain towards hemophiliacs. Additionally, it took close to 40 years for God to direct his organization back to the stance that blood fractions are allowed. After teaching it was not allowed in 1954, approximately four years later it was permitted. About three years after that, it became prohibited again, and remained that way from 1961 until 2000. In 2000, God threw some more 'new light' at the Governing Body who gave the thumbs up to blood fractions.
To ponder the number of deaths the above doctrines has caused and still causes are staggering. Not to just adults but to innocent and helpless children. Here's a brief list to consider straight from some of the Watchtower Society's publications:
-Adrian Yeatts - age 15 - Source: Awake! May 22, 1994, page 8.
-Dan Andersen - age 15 - Source: Watchtower February, 1, 1996, page 15.
-Irene Walter - age 2 - Source: Awake!, September 22, 1972, pages 17-21.
-Lenae Martinez - age 12 - Source: Awake!, May 22, 1994, page 10.
-Lisa Kosack - age 12 - Source: Awake!, May 22, 1994, page 14.
-Wyndham Cook - age 15 - Source: Awake!, August 22, 1991, page 15.
Please note…The May 22, 1994 Awake! is a good reference point alone as numerous children are spoken of who have died due to the Watchtower Society's interpretation of Bible verses.
A few more easily referenced:
-Brendon Hood - age 4 - Source: Associated Press dispatch reproduced on page 70 of the book ‘Danger at Your Door’ by Duane Magnani.
-Elihu Canle - age 2 - Source: Cambio 16, October 3, 1994.
-Kelsey Crockford - age 2 - Source: The Houston Chronicle, November 18, 1995, page 42A.
-Kevin Rattenbury - age 14 - Source: The Chicago Tribune, August 14, 1991.
-Lucia Gangi - age 12 - Source: Australia's Telegraph Mirror Journal, March 25, 1992.
There are hundreds to thousands more which could be referenced, but we will leave that for your own personal research. A child of 15, 12, 2 years old age...What 'choice' did these children have?
Indoctrination from an organization claiming to be God's channel of truth provides the directive and they follow or are forced to follow in many cases, their parent's consent or/and legal directive. The blood guilt is clear and is extremely saddening. It is an evil from a false prophet doomsday organization whose victims include helpless innocent children that is reminiscent of the child sacrifices found in the Bible. Molech and Baal would be pleased.
Though Franz was well-known among many old timers in the organization to be the author of many of the books printed by the Watchtower Society, little is known about other contributors to doctrinal changes. One of these men is Gene Smalley. He is the author of this 'new light' (As opposed to C.T. Russell's 'old light') on blood transfusions.
There continued to be 'refinements' of this Watchtower Society doctrine as a result of the inaccuracy of research performed by the organization. More so, changes have been implemented due to the legal ramifications in modern times.
Furthermore, many countries have been issued public relations statements that would give the appearance that Jehovah's Witnesses are not prohibited by the organization from having blood transfusions. Nonetheless, if they make the personal 'choice' to have a blood transfusion, they are disfellowshipped and shunned. Of course, this is not mentioned in the information provided to the public.
Here's a list of some Watchtower Society publications and the stance respecting the organization's doctrine and teachings of blood:
12/25/1940 - Consolation, page 19: Blood transfusions permitted.
07/01/1945 - Watchtower, page 201: Blood officially banned.
01/08/1954 - Awake!, page 24: Disallowed the use of blood fractions.
09/15/1958 - Watchtower, page 575: Changed policy allows use of blood fractions.
10/15/1959 - Watchtower, page 640: No storage of blood before an operation.
09/15/1961 - Watchtower, pages 558-599: Disallowed blood fractions.
02/22/1975 - Awake!, page 30: Hemophilia treatment condemned.
06/15/1978 - Watchtower, pages 29-31: Hemophilia treatments allowed.
06/15/1985 - Watchtower, page 30: Factor VIII not allowed.
03/01/1989 - Watchtower, pages 30 & 31: Blood outside body permitted using dialysis.
06/15/2000 - Watchtower, pages 29-31: Blood fractions from blood components allowed.
Besides the current no blood transfusion stance which started under the Rutherford Reign in the mid-40s, notice the other following oddities...
Blood Fractions:
No = 1954
Yes = 1958
No = 1961
Yes = 2000
Hemophilia treatments:
No = 1975
Yes = 1978
Apparently, according to Watchtower Society teachings during the mid-70's God had a disdain towards hemophiliacs. Additionally, it took close to 40 years for God to direct his organization back to the stance that blood fractions are allowed. After teaching it was not allowed in 1954, approximately four years later it was permitted. About three years after that, it became prohibited again, and remained that way from 1961 until 2000. In 2000, God threw some more 'new light' at the Governing Body who gave the thumbs up to blood fractions.
To ponder the number of deaths the above doctrines has caused and still causes are staggering. Not to just adults but to innocent and helpless children. Here's a brief list to consider straight from some of the Watchtower Society's publications:
-Adrian Yeatts - age 15 - Source: Awake! May 22, 1994, page 8.
-Dan Andersen - age 15 - Source: Watchtower February, 1, 1996, page 15.
-Irene Walter - age 2 - Source: Awake!, September 22, 1972, pages 17-21.
-Lenae Martinez - age 12 - Source: Awake!, May 22, 1994, page 10.
-Lisa Kosack - age 12 - Source: Awake!, May 22, 1994, page 14.
-Wyndham Cook - age 15 - Source: Awake!, August 22, 1991, page 15.
Please note…The May 22, 1994 Awake! is a good reference point alone as numerous children are spoken of who have died due to the Watchtower Society's interpretation of Bible verses.
A few more easily referenced:
-Brendon Hood - age 4 - Source: Associated Press dispatch reproduced on page 70 of the book ‘Danger at Your Door’ by Duane Magnani.
-Elihu Canle - age 2 - Source: Cambio 16, October 3, 1994.
-Kelsey Crockford - age 2 - Source: The Houston Chronicle, November 18, 1995, page 42A.
-Kevin Rattenbury - age 14 - Source: The Chicago Tribune, August 14, 1991.
-Lucia Gangi - age 12 - Source: Australia's Telegraph Mirror Journal, March 25, 1992.
There are hundreds to thousands more which could be referenced, but we will leave that for your own personal research. A child of 15, 12, 2 years old age...What 'choice' did these children have?
Indoctrination from an organization claiming to be God's channel of truth provides the directive and they follow or are forced to follow in many cases, their parent's consent or/and legal directive. The blood guilt is clear and is extremely saddening. It is an evil from a false prophet doomsday organization whose victims include helpless innocent children that is reminiscent of the child sacrifices found in the Bible. Molech and Baal would be pleased.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Submit To The Governing Body
This past April 4th Sunday's Watchtower Study article emphasized once again to the followers what is key to the faith and organization that is known as Jehovah's Witnesses. As the Watchtower Society has stressed, is stressing, and will continue to stress, is obedience to their organization.
The article, "Jehovah's Way Of Ruling Vindicated!” as found in the January 15, 2010 Watchtower, pages 28-32, states the following in paragraph 15:
"Each of us would do well to ask himself: 'Do I fully recognize the responsibilities that I should shoulder within the Christian congregation? Am I properly supporting Jehovah's way of governing? Am I proud to be a subject of Jehovah's ruling Kingdom? Am I determined to continue telling others about God's Kingdom to the extent that I reasonably can?' As a group, we willingly submit ourselves to the direction given by the Governing Body and cooperate with the appointed elders in the congregations. In such ways, we demonstrate our acceptance of God's way of ruling. (Read Hebrews 13:17.) Willing submission results in a worldwide unity that is unique in this divided world. It also produces peace and righteousness and brings glory to Jehovah, demonstrating that his way of ruling is by far the best."
Submit to the Governing Body and do it willingly. That is the message. That is part of the indoctrinating and training a Jehovah's Witness receives. The continuous subliminal message being instilled to a loyal Jehovah's Witness member is you listen to the Governing Body, you obey the Governing Body, and you do as the Governing Body says. In this way you're 'properly supporting Jehovah'; you 'accept God's way of ruling'.
This obedience to the Governing Body is backed with a fallacy consistently used by the Watchtower Society known as the 'Appeal to Authority'. The phrases: 'Jehovah's way of governing', 'Jehovah's ruling Kingdom', 'God's Kingdom', and the aforementioned 'God's way of ruling', all surrounds the Watchtower Society's direction to submit yourself to their Governing Body’s directions.
Furthermore, the twisted and circular logic is as follows: You submit yourself to the Governing Body - Those 9 men calling the shots in Brooklyn - because that is the direction and ruling of God. You know it is the direction and ruling of God because the Governing Body says that is the case. It makes perfect circular logical sense.
The article, "Jehovah's Way Of Ruling Vindicated!” as found in the January 15, 2010 Watchtower, pages 28-32, states the following in paragraph 15:
"Each of us would do well to ask himself: 'Do I fully recognize the responsibilities that I should shoulder within the Christian congregation? Am I properly supporting Jehovah's way of governing? Am I proud to be a subject of Jehovah's ruling Kingdom? Am I determined to continue telling others about God's Kingdom to the extent that I reasonably can?' As a group, we willingly submit ourselves to the direction given by the Governing Body and cooperate with the appointed elders in the congregations. In such ways, we demonstrate our acceptance of God's way of ruling. (Read Hebrews 13:17.) Willing submission results in a worldwide unity that is unique in this divided world. It also produces peace and righteousness and brings glory to Jehovah, demonstrating that his way of ruling is by far the best."
Submit to the Governing Body and do it willingly. That is the message. That is part of the indoctrinating and training a Jehovah's Witness receives. The continuous subliminal message being instilled to a loyal Jehovah's Witness member is you listen to the Governing Body, you obey the Governing Body, and you do as the Governing Body says. In this way you're 'properly supporting Jehovah'; you 'accept God's way of ruling'.
This obedience to the Governing Body is backed with a fallacy consistently used by the Watchtower Society known as the 'Appeal to Authority'. The phrases: 'Jehovah's way of governing', 'Jehovah's ruling Kingdom', 'God's Kingdom', and the aforementioned 'God's way of ruling', all surrounds the Watchtower Society's direction to submit yourself to their Governing Body’s directions.
Furthermore, the twisted and circular logic is as follows: You submit yourself to the Governing Body - Those 9 men calling the shots in Brooklyn - because that is the direction and ruling of God. You know it is the direction and ruling of God because the Governing Body says that is the case. It makes perfect circular logical sense.
Monday, March 1, 2010
God's Name
According to Insight on the Scriptures Volume 2, page 5 under the heading, 'Jehovah' the following is stated:
"Correct Pronunciation of the Divine Name. “Jehovah” is the best known English pronunciation of the divine name, although “Yahweh” is favored by most Hebrew scholars. The oldest Hebrew manuscripts present the name in the form of four consonants, commonly called the Tetragrammaton (from Greek te•tra-, meaning “four,” and gram'ma, “letter”). These four letters (written from right to left) are יהוה and may be transliterated into English as YHWH (or, JHVH)."
The Watchtower Society adds "(or, JHVH)" in their publication, but that letter usage was to make allowance and flexibility centuries later. It does not attribute towards accuracy. The confusion stems from Latin sources, in which the same letter represents both J and Y, and another single letter represents both V and W. Nonetheless, the original Hebrew translates to YHWH.
On page 7, the same publication continues:
"Since certainty of pronunciation is not now attainable, there seems to be no reason for abandoning in English the well-known form “Jehovah” in favor of some other suggested pronunciation. If such a change were made, then, to be consistent, changes should be made in the spelling and pronunciation of a host of other names found in the Scriptures: Jeremiah would be changed to Yir•meyah′, Isaiah would become Yesha?•ya′hu, and Jesus would be either Yehoh•shu′a? (as in Hebrew) or I•e•sous′ (as in Greek). The purpose of words is to transmit thoughts; in English the name Jehovah identifies the true God, transmitting this thought more satisfactorily today than any of the suggested substitutes."
So the Watchtower Society is stating that there is no way to attain the correct pronunciation of God’s name, but since ‘Jehovah’ is supposedly so well-known, let’s stick with it. Regardless of the facts that Hebrew scholars use YaHWeH, and earliest documented evidence shows YHWH – Not JHVH [JeHoVaH] as valid consonants in the name.
This is not the only place the Watchtower Society shows poor reasoning and goes against logic in their explanation of using ‘Jehovah’. The Divine Name brochure on page 7 under ‘God’s Name – It’s Meaning and Pronunciation’ makes the following statements:
“How Is God’s Name Pronounced? The truth is, nobody knows for sure how the name of God was originally pronounced. Why not? Well, the first language used in writing the Bible was Hebrew, and when the Hebrew language was written down, the writers wrote only consonants—not vowels. Hence, when the inspired writers wrote God’s name, they naturally did the same thing and wrote only the consonants. "
"Correct Pronunciation of the Divine Name. “Jehovah” is the best known English pronunciation of the divine name, although “Yahweh” is favored by most Hebrew scholars. The oldest Hebrew manuscripts present the name in the form of four consonants, commonly called the Tetragrammaton (from Greek te•tra-, meaning “four,” and gram'ma, “letter”). These four letters (written from right to left) are יהוה and may be transliterated into English as YHWH (or, JHVH)."
The Watchtower Society adds "(or, JHVH)" in their publication, but that letter usage was to make allowance and flexibility centuries later. It does not attribute towards accuracy. The confusion stems from Latin sources, in which the same letter represents both J and Y, and another single letter represents both V and W. Nonetheless, the original Hebrew translates to YHWH.
On page 7, the same publication continues:
"Since certainty of pronunciation is not now attainable, there seems to be no reason for abandoning in English the well-known form “Jehovah” in favor of some other suggested pronunciation. If such a change were made, then, to be consistent, changes should be made in the spelling and pronunciation of a host of other names found in the Scriptures: Jeremiah would be changed to Yir•meyah′, Isaiah would become Yesha?•ya′hu, and Jesus would be either Yehoh•shu′a? (as in Hebrew) or I•e•sous′ (as in Greek). The purpose of words is to transmit thoughts; in English the name Jehovah identifies the true God, transmitting this thought more satisfactorily today than any of the suggested substitutes."
So the Watchtower Society is stating that there is no way to attain the correct pronunciation of God’s name, but since ‘Jehovah’ is supposedly so well-known, let’s stick with it. Regardless of the facts that Hebrew scholars use YaHWeH, and earliest documented evidence shows YHWH – Not JHVH [JeHoVaH] as valid consonants in the name.
This is not the only place the Watchtower Society shows poor reasoning and goes against logic in their explanation of using ‘Jehovah’. The Divine Name brochure on page 7 under ‘God’s Name – It’s Meaning and Pronunciation’ makes the following statements:
“How Is God’s Name Pronounced? The truth is, nobody knows for sure how the name of God was originally pronounced. Why not? Well, the first language used in writing the Bible was Hebrew, and when the Hebrew language was written down, the writers wrote only consonants—not vowels. Hence, when the inspired writers wrote God’s name, they naturally did the same thing and wrote only the consonants. "
Page 8 of the same brochure states:
"Where, though, did pronunciations like Yahweh come from? These are forms that have been suggested by modern scholars trying to deduce the original pronunciation of God’s name. Some—though not all—feel that the Israelites before the time of Jesus probably pronounced God’s name Yahweh. But no one can be sure. Perhaps they pronounced it that way, perhaps not.
Nevertheless, many prefer the pronunciation Jehovah. Why? Because it has a currency and familiarity that Yahweh does not have. Would it not, though, be better to use the form that might be closer to the original pronunciation? Not really, for that is not the custom with Bible names."
The same article then tries to convince the reader that since many other biblical names were translated in a similar fashion (continuing "the custom" argument), translating God's name in the same pattern may be acceptable too. The Watchtower Society is trying to make two wrongs equal a right. After laying that reasoning down, the organization once again shows how faulty their own logic is and then switches gears on page 10:
"...Even though the modern pronunciation Jehovah might not be exactly the way it was pronounced originally, this in no way detracts from the importance of the name. It identifies the Creator, the living God, the Most High to whom Jesus said: “Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified.”—Matthew 6:9.”
Interestingly, the Watchtower Society comments: "...Jehovah might not be exactly the way it was pronounced originally". However, it definitely was not pronounced that way. Their own publication already provided that information. By stating 'might not', it is deceitful and leading the reader to believe there is a chance, it is possible 'Jehovah' is the name of God. The truth is there is zero possibility that 'Jehovah' is correct.
Regardless, since “many prefer” Jehovah over Yahweh, the Watchtower Society is sticking with Jehovah as the official name. This is in spite of the fact that Yahweh is closer to the original pronunciation, as admitted by the organization.
The Watchtower Society is hypocritical and contradictory in the way they approach the name of God. From their own words, it is seen that popular choice and preference outweighs logic and facts. One would think something that Jehovah's Witnesses stress is so monumental in importance, the name of 'The Father'; it would be better decided with facts and truth rather than the popular vote.
Interestingly (and arguably more importantly), the Bible makes the following statements in the area respecting names. In the case where a Jehovah's Witness is taught that God, whom is perceived as just being The Father and is specifically addressed, the Bible notes the following details on the issue.
Exodus 3:13-14 (New King James Version):
"Then Moses said to God, “Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they say to me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?”
And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”"
If there was significance in saying the specific name of ‘Jehovah’ God, you would believe that here would be the place for it. God would state a specific divine name, 'Jehovah' or they equivalent thereof to His people. However, He does not do so. Furthermore, application in the New Covenant and Testament provides these specifics regarding a divine name.
Acts 4:10-12 (New King James Version):
"let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’[a] Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Footnotes:
[a] Acts 4:11 - Psalm 118:22”
The scriptures above make it plain and simple. The name of God – (more specific to Jehovah’s Witnesses, 'The Father' only) - was not provided when God was asked directly for it. However, the name of Jesus Christ is the only one in which salvation is found. There is no other name under heaven given among men in which we must be saved – This includes the ‘popular’ and Watchtower Society preferred name of The Father, 'Jehovah'.
Of course, this only applies if you believe and follow the Bible to be the Word of God. If you perceive a bunch of men who tout themselves as a ‘Governing Body’ who dispense ‘truth’ through a magazine, you’re probably inclined to feel otherwise.
Finally, how did ‘Jehovah’ become so ‘well-known’ and ‘preferred’?
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, (1991) under the heading 'Yahweh', here is how this name came into being:
"The Masoretes, who from about the 6th to the 10th century worked to reproduce the original text of the Hebrew Bible, replaced the vowels of the name YHWH with the vowel signs of the Hebrew word Adonai or Elohim. Thus the artificial name Jehovah (YeHoWaH) came into being."
The Watchtower Society supports the Masoretic and Catholic originated work, while providing a twisted logic and justification for utilizing a manufactured name for God. This in itself is ironic and hypocritical, when you read of the historic bashing of the Catholic faith by Jehovah's Witnesses.
Perhaps the only thing more artificial then the name of God being Jehovah, is the notion of a publishing company being the sole channel of communicating ‘truth’ that same God is using today.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Bait And Switch Friends
Jehovah’s Witnesses are indoctrinated through talks and publications of the Watchtower Society to recruit members. Their primary focus towards anyone who is not a Jehovah’s Witness is to convert them. Although they will not out rightly say so, and will use such phrases as ‘encourage people to look into the Bible’, what they are really attempting is to ‘encourage people to interpret and understand the Bible according to the Watchtower Society’.
The sincerity and kindness they seemingly show can even be questioned when the true motives of such actions become apparent. Take for instance the teachings seen by Jehovah’s Witnesses as spiritual food in the November 15, 2009, Watchtower article with the theme, ‘Displaying Good Manners As A Minister Of God’. It covers pages 24-29 of the journal. Notice the admonition and what should be the true motive in making friends with those who are not members as noted in paragraph 10:
"Consider the case of a Christian couple named Tom and Carol, who live in a large North American city. They have made pleasant conversation with their neighbours a part of their ministry. How do they do it? Referring to James 3:18, Tom says: "We try to be friendly and peaceable with people. We approach those we see outside their homes and those who work in the area. We smile and greet them. We talk about what interests them--their children, their dogs, their homes, their jobs. In time, they view us as their friends." Carol adds: "On a later visit, we give them our names and ask for theirs. We let them know what we are doing in the neighbourhood but keep the conversations brief. Eventually, we can give them a witness." Tom and Carol have won the confidence of many of their neighbours. A good number have accepted Bible-based publications, and a few have shown greater interest in learning the truth.”
The Jehovah’s Witnesses indoctrinated objective is not to be a sincere friend to those who are outside of the organization, but rather to give the appearance of one, so as to be able to preach to a person the Watchtower Society’s 'truth' - “give them a witness”. There may be a Jehovah's Witness you know that is a true friend despite this teaching of their leaders (Referred to by Jehovah’s Witnesses as 'The Governing Body'). Nonetheless, this is the message, the practice, and the so-called love Jehovah’s Witnesses are trained to show to those whom they label as ‘worldly people’.
Furthermore, remember the “Bible-based publications” mentioned in the quoted paragraph are more magazines, books and the like, that are published by the Watchtower Society. It is their interpretation and their twist on matters, which when accepted by an outsider, is seen as taking an interest in “the truth”. This so called 'truth' is the current or present truth as taught by the Watchtower Society. Remember though, that 'truth' can often change, this includes returning to an older belief they once had, as seen in the Watchtower Society’s teachings of ‘generation’ or the resurrection of the men of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are in the bait and switch game, whether conscience of the fact or not. They bait or lure individuals under a false premise or pretense in order to ultimately make more converts under an organization in which they are programmed to perceive as 'the truth'. That victum is love bombed and praised by members for taking the bait. Once indoctrinated enough, a switch occurs ever so subtly and the person must be a loyal member to the organization, or else suffer at the very least mental and emotional anguish.
Fact of the matter is a game has been played on them by the Watchtower Society. It continues to be played now, as it has been played throughout the organization’s history. That same quoted paragraph appropriately stated the Jehovah’s Witnesses “won the confidence” of those around them. In the Watchtower Society’s game, they are trying to ‘win’ everybody’s confidence.
The Watchtower Society convinces individual members to believe they have choice, they have freedom, but the reality is the members are taught severe consequence; including the ingrained notion and belief that they will die eternally and fall out of God’s favor should they not follow the organization. The bait of choice and freedom is switched to a trap of the mind and heart.
The bait of a façade love and friendship is switched (realized or not), with a real guilt and fear. The consequence of either a literal or believed losing of everything and everyone, should you even attempt to no longer be a member of the organization. It is the ultimate bait and switch, encompassing the kind of friendship no one should be interested in having as part of their life.
The sincerity and kindness they seemingly show can even be questioned when the true motives of such actions become apparent. Take for instance the teachings seen by Jehovah’s Witnesses as spiritual food in the November 15, 2009, Watchtower article with the theme, ‘Displaying Good Manners As A Minister Of God’. It covers pages 24-29 of the journal. Notice the admonition and what should be the true motive in making friends with those who are not members as noted in paragraph 10:
"Consider the case of a Christian couple named Tom and Carol, who live in a large North American city. They have made pleasant conversation with their neighbours a part of their ministry. How do they do it? Referring to James 3:18, Tom says: "We try to be friendly and peaceable with people. We approach those we see outside their homes and those who work in the area. We smile and greet them. We talk about what interests them--their children, their dogs, their homes, their jobs. In time, they view us as their friends." Carol adds: "On a later visit, we give them our names and ask for theirs. We let them know what we are doing in the neighbourhood but keep the conversations brief. Eventually, we can give them a witness." Tom and Carol have won the confidence of many of their neighbours. A good number have accepted Bible-based publications, and a few have shown greater interest in learning the truth.”
The Jehovah’s Witnesses indoctrinated objective is not to be a sincere friend to those who are outside of the organization, but rather to give the appearance of one, so as to be able to preach to a person the Watchtower Society’s 'truth' - “give them a witness”. There may be a Jehovah's Witness you know that is a true friend despite this teaching of their leaders (Referred to by Jehovah’s Witnesses as 'The Governing Body'). Nonetheless, this is the message, the practice, and the so-called love Jehovah’s Witnesses are trained to show to those whom they label as ‘worldly people’.
Furthermore, remember the “Bible-based publications” mentioned in the quoted paragraph are more magazines, books and the like, that are published by the Watchtower Society. It is their interpretation and their twist on matters, which when accepted by an outsider, is seen as taking an interest in “the truth”. This so called 'truth' is the current or present truth as taught by the Watchtower Society. Remember though, that 'truth' can often change, this includes returning to an older belief they once had, as seen in the Watchtower Society’s teachings of ‘generation’ or the resurrection of the men of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are in the bait and switch game, whether conscience of the fact or not. They bait or lure individuals under a false premise or pretense in order to ultimately make more converts under an organization in which they are programmed to perceive as 'the truth'. That victum is love bombed and praised by members for taking the bait. Once indoctrinated enough, a switch occurs ever so subtly and the person must be a loyal member to the organization, or else suffer at the very least mental and emotional anguish.
Fact of the matter is a game has been played on them by the Watchtower Society. It continues to be played now, as it has been played throughout the organization’s history. That same quoted paragraph appropriately stated the Jehovah’s Witnesses “won the confidence” of those around them. In the Watchtower Society’s game, they are trying to ‘win’ everybody’s confidence.
The Watchtower Society convinces individual members to believe they have choice, they have freedom, but the reality is the members are taught severe consequence; including the ingrained notion and belief that they will die eternally and fall out of God’s favor should they not follow the organization. The bait of choice and freedom is switched to a trap of the mind and heart.
The bait of a façade love and friendship is switched (realized or not), with a real guilt and fear. The consequence of either a literal or believed losing of everything and everyone, should you even attempt to no longer be a member of the organization. It is the ultimate bait and switch, encompassing the kind of friendship no one should be interested in having as part of their life.
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