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Category:Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses
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The main article for this category is Beliefs and practices of Jehovah& § 39;s Witnesses.
 

Pages in category "Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses"
The following 20 pages are in this category, out of 20 total. This list may not reflect recent changes (learn more).




Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
1
144000 (number)
A
Annihilationism
Armageddon
B
Beth Sarim
D
Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
Instrument of Jesus' crucifixion

E
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Excommunication
F
Faithful and discreet slave
J
Jehonadab
Jehovah's Witnesses and blood transfusions
Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
Jehovah's Witnesses and governments

J cont.
Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
Jehovah's Witnesses and the United Nations
Jehovah's Witnesses practices
K
Kingdom Hall
Kingdom song
T
Tetragrammaton in the New Testament





Categories: Jehovah's Witnesses
Christian behaviour and experience



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 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Beliefs_and_practices_of_Jehovah%27s_Witnesses















Category:Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search

The main article for this category is Beliefs and practices of Jehovah& § 39;s Witnesses.
 

Pages in category "Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses"
The following 20 pages are in this category, out of 20 total. This list may not reflect recent changes (learn more).




Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
1
144000 (number)
A
Annihilationism
Armageddon
B
Beth Sarim
D
Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
Instrument of Jesus' crucifixion

E
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Excommunication
F
Faithful and discreet slave
J
Jehonadab
Jehovah's Witnesses and blood transfusions
Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
Jehovah's Witnesses and governments

J cont.
Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
Jehovah's Witnesses and the United Nations
Jehovah's Witnesses practices
K
Kingdom Hall
Kingdom song
T
Tetragrammaton in the New Testament





Categories: Jehovah's Witnesses
Christian behaviour and experience



Navigation menu




Create account
Log in




Category

Talk












Read

Edit

View history

























Main page
Contents
Featured content
Current events
Random article
Donate to Wikipedia
Wikimedia Shop

Interaction
Help
About Wikipedia
Community portal
Recent changes
Contact page

Tools
What links here
Related changes
Upload file
Special pages
Permanent link
Page information
Wikidata item

Print/export
Create a book
Download as PDF
Printable version

Languages
Polski
Edit links
This page was last modified on 31 March 2013 at 13:14.
Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License; additional terms may apply. By using this site, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization.
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About Wikipedia
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Powered by MediaWiki
  

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Beliefs_and_practices_of_Jehovah%27s_Witnesses















Jehovah's Witnesses practices
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search

Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
The practices of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the biblical interpretations of Charles Taze Russell, founder of the Bible Student movement, and successive presidents of the Watch Tower Society, Joseph Franklin Rutherford and Nathan Homer Knorr. Since 1976 they have also been based on decisions made at closed meetings of the religion's Governing Body.[1][2] Instructions regarding activities and acceptable behavior are disseminated through The Watchtower magazine and other official publications, and at conventions and congregation meetings.
Jehovah's Witnesses endeavor to remain "separate from the world",[3] which is regarded as a place of moral contamination and under the control of Satan, refusing any political and military activity and limiting social contact with non-Witnesses.[4] Members practice a strict moral code, which forbids premarital and homosexual sex, adultery, smoking, drunkenness and drug abuse, and blood transfusions.[5] Discipline within congregations is maintained by a system of judicial committees, which have the power to expel members who breach organizational rules and demand their shunning by other Witnesses.[6] The threat of shunning also serves to deter other members from dissident behavior.[7][8]
Members are expected to participate regularly in evangelizing work and attend all congregation meetings, as well as regular large-scale conventions, which are highly structured and based on material from Watch Tower Society publications.[9]



Contents  [hide]
1 Worship 1.1 Weekend meeting
1.2 Midweek meeting
1.3 Memorial of Christ's death
1.4 Assemblies and conventions
2 Evangelism
3 Watch Tower Society literature
4 Conversion
5 Ministers and ordination
6 Discipline
7 Family life
8 Morality
9 Blood
10 Spiritual warfare
11 Separateness
12 Celebrations
13 Construction
14 Humanitarian efforts
15 Funding of activities
16 References
17 Bibliography
18 External links

Worship[edit]



 A Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses


 Worship at a Kingdom Hall
Meetings for worship and study are held at Kingdom Halls, and are open to the public. Witnesses are assigned to a congregation in which "territory" they reside and are expected to attend weekly meetings as scheduled by the Watch Tower Society and congregation elders. The meetings are largely devoted to study of the Bible and Witness doctrines; traditions of mysticism, glossolalia, creed recitation or periods of silent meditation common in other Christian denominations are absent.[10] During meetings and in other formal circumstances, Witnesses refer to one another as "Brother" and "Sister".[11] Sociologist Andrew Holden claims meetings create an atmosphere of uniformity for Witnesses, intensify their sense of belonging to a religious community, and reinforce the plausibility of the organization's belief system.[10] He says they are also important in helping new converts adopt a different way of life.[10] According to The Watchtower, one role of the frequency and length of meetings is to protect Witnesses from becoming "involved in the affairs of the world."[12][13]
The form and content of the meetings is established by the religion's Brooklyn headquarters, generally involving a consideration of the same subject matter worldwide each week.[10] Two meetings each week are divided into five distinct sections, lasting a total of about four hours. Meetings are opened and closed with hymns and brief prayers delivered from the platform. Witnesses are urged to prepare for all meetings by studying Watch Tower literature from which the content is drawn and looking up the scriptures cited in the articles.[14] Kingdom Halls are typically functional in character, and contain no religious symbols.[10] Each year, Witnesses from several congregations, which form a "circuit", gather for one-day and two-day assemblies; several circuits meet once a year for a three-day "district convention", and several districts gather every few years for a four-day "international convention". These larger gatherings are usually held at rented stadiums or auditoriums. Their most important and solemn event is the celebration of the "Lord's Evening Meal", or "Memorial of Christ's Death".
Weekend meeting[edit]
The weekend meeting, usually held on Sunday, comprises a 30-minute public talk by a congregation elder or ministerial servant and a one-hour question-and-answer study of a Bible-based article from The Watchtower magazine,[10] with questions prepared by the Watch Tower Society and the answers provided in the magazine.[15] Members may use their own words to express the ideas in the printed material,[16] though personal ideas derived from independent study are discouraged.[10][17]
Midweek meeting[edit]
The midweek meeting, typically held in the evening, includes a question-and-answer "Congregation Bible Study" (30 minutes) based on a Watch Tower Society publication;[10][18] the "Theocratic Ministry School" (30 minutes), designed to train Witnesses in public speaking and proselytizing using talks and rehearsals of doorstop sermons;[19] and the "Service Meeting" (30 minutes), following an agenda set in the Society's monthly newsletter Our Kingdom Ministry to train Witnesses to participate in the public ministry.[20] Before 2009, the midweek meeting consisted of the Theocratic Ministry School and the Service Meeting (each 45 minutes);[21] the Congregation Book Study (1 hour) was typically held on a separate evening, divided into smaller groups meeting in private homes.[22]
Memorial of Christ's death[edit]
See also: Eucharist
Jehovah's Witnesses commemorate Christ's death as a ransom or "propitiatory sacrifice" by observing the Lord's Evening Meal, or Memorial. They celebrate it once per year, noting that it was instituted on the Passover, an annual festival.[23] They observe it on Nisan 14 according to the ancient Jewish luni-solar calendar.[24] Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that this is the only celebration the Bible commands Christians to observe.[25]
Of those who attend the Memorial, a small minority worldwide partake of the unleavened bread and wine. This is because Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the majority of the faithful have an earthly hope. Only those who believe they have a heavenly hope, the "remnant" (those still living) of the 144,000 "anointed", partake of the bread and wine.[26] In 2011, the number of persons who partook worldwide was 11,824, whereas the number who attended was 19,374,737.[27]
The Memorial, held after sunset, includes a talk on the meaning of the celebration and the circulation among the audience of unadulterated red wine and unleavened bread. Jehovah's Witnesses believe the bread symbolizes Jesus Christ's body which he gave on behalf of mankind, and that the wine symbolizes his blood which redeems from sin. They do not believe in transubstantiation or consubstantiation.[28][29] Because many congregations have no members who claim to be anointed, it is common for no one to partake of the bread and wine.
Assemblies and conventions[edit]



 A District Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses
Each year, Jehovah's Witnesses hold two one day "Circuit Assemblies", held in each circuit worldwide. Each circuit comprises several congregations in a geographical area. These are held either in Assembly Halls owned by Jehovah's Witnesses, or in rented facilities, such as public auditoriums. Once a year, Jehovah's Witnesses gather at larger assemblies called "Regional Conventions" which are usually three days long (Friday to Sunday). These conventions consist primarily of Bible-based sermons, including demonstrations and experiences of their preaching work. They also often feature live, full-costume dramatic plays re-enacting biblical accounts—such as Moses and the Plagues of Egypt, and Lot in Sodom and Gomorrah—or contemporary settings based on biblical principles. Every few years, "International Conventions" are held in selected cities, with visiting delegates from other countries. The attendance of some of these International conventions numbers into the hundreds of thousands, with the largest-ever gathering held in New York in 1958 at Yankee Stadium and Polo Grounds with a peak attendance exceeding 250,000.[citation needed]
Evangelism[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses are known for their preaching from house to house
Jehovah's Witnesses believe they are under obligation to God to "give witness" by participating in organized and spontaneous evangelizing and proselytizing work,[30][31] with baptism permitted only for those who demonstrate "regular and zealous" participation.[32] Baptism is regarded as an automatic ordination as a minister[33] and from that time Witnesses feel a moral obligation to serve as "publishers", disseminating Watch Tower doctrines as evangelists of "the Truth".[30] Watch Tower publications describe house-to-house visitations as the primary work of Jehovah's Witnesses[32] in obedience to a "divine command" to preach "the Kingdom good news in all the earth and (make) disciples of people of all the nations".[34] Children usually accompany their parents and participate in the public ministry.[35] In addition to taking part in organized door-to-door preaching, Witnesses are taught that they should seek opportunities to "witness informally" by starting conversations with people they meet during routine activities such as shopping or on public transport, and directing the conversation towards their beliefs.[36]
Members who commit themselves to evangelize for 840 hours per year (an average of 70 hours per month) are called regular pioneers.[37] Those who commit themselves to evangelize for 50 hours for one month are called auxiliary pioneers, which they may do for consecutive months.[38] Some Witnesses volunteer for missionary service, and may be invited to receive specialized training at the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead. These individuals dedicate, on average, more than 120 hours per month to their work.[39] Members who are not able to 'pioneer' are told they may maintain the "pioneer spirit", by spending as much time as they can in preaching and by supporting the efforts of pioneers.[40] Witnesses are frequently instructed through Watch Tower Society publications, and at meetings and conventions, to increase the quality and quantity of their preaching efforts.[41][42] Watch Tower Society publications suggest that endurance in public preaching is the means by which Witnesses attain salvation,[43][44] and that evangelizing frees them from blood-guilt regarding individuals who might die at Armageddon without having heard about God's kingdom.[45]
Specialized "territory" maps of residential and commercial areas are prepared within the boundaries of each congregation's territory and distributed to publishers who are responsible for preaching within that area. Witnesses are instructed to fill out monthly report slips on their preaching activity,[46] listing the hours spent, publications placed with householders, and the number of "return visits" made to households where interest had been shown formerly.[30] The reports are used to help measure the "spirituality" of individuals[30][47] and to establish the eligibility of men as congregation elders and ministerial servants.[48] A Witness who fails to report for a month is termed an "irregular publisher"; one who has not turned in a field service report for six months consecutively is termed an "inactive publisher".
Witnesses have, in the past, used a wide variety of methods to spread their faith, including information marches, where members wore sandwich boards and handed out leaflets, to sound cars (car-mounted phonographs), and syndicated newspaper columns and radio segments devoted to sermons. Between 1924 and 1957, the organization operated a radio station, WBBR, from New York.
Watch Tower Society literature[edit]
See also: Jehovah's Witnesses publications and List of Watch Tower Society publications
Jehovah's Witnesses make extensive use of Watch Tower Society literature, including books, magazines, booklets and handbills, to spread their beliefs and to use as textbooks at their religious meetings. The publications are produced in many languages, with a small selection available in 500 languages. Their primary journal, The Watchtower is published simultaneously in nearly two hundred languages[49] and, along with Awake!, available in audio and electronic formats. Issues of both publications are compiled annually into bound volumes, and are added yearly to the Watchtower Library CD-ROM, which contains many Witness publications from 1950 onward, and is officially available to baptized members only.[50] New books, brochures, and other items are released at their annual conventions. Additionally, a number of audio cassettes, videocassettes, and DVDs have been produced explaining the group's beliefs, practices, organization and history. Some of these also provide dramas based on biblical accounts. Since 1942 all Watch Tower literature has been published anonymously.[51]
Publications were sold to the public until the early 1990s, from which time they were offered free of charge, with a request for donations. The change in policy was first announced in the United States in February 1990, following the loss of a US Supreme Court court case by Jimmy Swaggart Ministries on the issue of sales tax exemption for religious groups.[52] The Watch Tower Society had joined the case as an Amicus curiae, or "friend of the court".[53] The court ruling would have resulted in the Watch Tower Society having to pay millions of dollars in sales tax if sales of their literature had continued.[54]
Witnesses are urged to prepare for congregation meetings by studying the assigned Watch Tower literature,[55] and are expected to read all magazines and books published by the Society.[56][57][58] One analysis noted that each year Witnesses are expected to read more than 3,000 pages of the Society's publications, according to its suggested program for personal study. In 1981 this would have included 1,536 pages from The Watchtower and Awake!, 48 pages from Our Kingdom Ministry, 384 pages of a book for the congregation book study, 384 pages from the Yearbook, 360 pages of the Theocratic Ministry School textbook and 258 pages of assembly releases in addition to scheduled weekly Bible reading.[59] Much of the literature is illustrated extensively, with sociologist Andrew Holden observing utopian, post-Armageddon images of happy Witnesses in bright sunshine and pristine environments, often playing with formerly wild animals such as lions and tigers, in contrast to dark-colored images of unfavorable activities such as murders, burglaries and promiscuity that highlight the moral dangers outside the organization.[60]
Conversion[edit]
To become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, one must first follow a systematic Bible study course. In time, one must participate regularly in the preaching work, and attend meetings.[61] One must also accept Jesus' ransom sacrifice and repent of sins, and make a personal dedication to God.[62]
The elders ask a series of questions to ensure that the person understands and accepts the beliefs of the Witnesses[63] in preparation for baptism.[64] Baptisms are normally performed at assemblies and conventions. At these baptisms, candidates make "public declaration" of their prior dedication to God.[65] The speaker asks the candidates the following two questions.
1.“On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?”
2.“Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God’s spirit-directed organization?”
After the candidates answer both questions in the affirmative, they can acceptably undergo water immersion.[66][67]
Ministers and ordination[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses consider as "ministers" all adherents who have been approved to engage in formal evangelizing. Witnesses consider their baptisms to be ordinations; unbaptized publishers are considered "regular ministers" whereas baptized publishers are considered "ordained ministers".[68] Witnesses recognize that many government and administrative precedents for ministers are not intended to include all active adherents.[69] For example, only elders assert ecclesiastical privilege and confessional privilege.[70]
Only males may be appointed as elders and ministerial servants (their term for deacons), and only baptized males may officiate at weddings, funerals, and baptisms.[71] A female Witness minister may only lead congregational prayer and teaching in unusual circumstances, and must wear a head covering while doing so. Outside the congregation, a female minister also wears a head covering when she leads spiritual teaching in the presence of her husband, according to the Christian complementarian view. Female headcovering is not required for other forms of teaching, or when participating in congregation meetings being led by another.[72] Some courts and government agencies have recognized that full-time Jehovah's Witnesses appointees, such as "pioneers" and those in the faith's religious order, qualify for ministerial exemptions regardless of gender.[73]
Discipline[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
Formal discipline is administered by congregation elders. In the event that an accusation of serious sin is made concerning a baptized member, if there is sufficient evidence, a tribunal or judicial committee is formed to determine guilt, administer help and possibly apply sanctions.
Disfellowshipping is the most severe form of discipline administered. Before taking this step, the judicial committee must determine that the individual has committed a "serious sin" and that there is no evidence of true repentance.[74] To judge that repentance is genuine, members of the judicial committee ask questions and review the actions of the accused member.[75] Baptized members who spread teachings contrary to the doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses can be disfellowshipped for apostasy,[76][77][78] and a 1981 letter to overseers—reproduced in a book by former Governing Body member Raymond Franz—directed that a member who "persists in believing other doctrine", even without promoting such beliefs, may also be subject to disfellowshipping.[79] Once the decision to disfellowship has been made, a person has seven days to appeal, after which, if the person has not appealed, the disfellowshipping will be announced to the congregation; disfellowshipping does not take effect until the announcement is made to the congregation.[80] After a person is disfellowshipped, the person is shunned by all baptized members.[81] Exceptions to this would include cases where a member was forced to have commercial dealings with a member who is disfellowshipped, or if the disfellowshipped member is living with family members who are baptized. In these cases, the Witness are not permitted to speak about matters pertaining to the religion, except in the case of parents conducting a Bible study with a disfellowshipped minor.[82] The extent to which disfellowshipped or disassociated relatives living in the same household are included in family life is left to the discretion of the family.[83] Family members living outside the home who are disfellowshipped have minimal contact.[84][85]
Reproof involves sins that could lead to disfellowshipping. Ones considered "truly repentant" are reproved rather than disfellowshipped.[86] Reproof is given "before all onlookers", based on their interpretation of 1 Timothy 5:20. If the sin is private in nature, the reproof would involve just the individual(s) involved. If the sin is known generally by the entire congregation or the community, an announcement is made informing the congregation that the person has been reproved. Later, without disclosing names or private details, one of the elders gives a separate talk ensuring that the congregation understands the sin, its dangers, and how to avoid it.[87] Reproved individuals have some congregation privileges restricted, until the elders decide that the member has regained "spiritual strength."[88][89] Restrictions may include not sharing in meeting parts, not commenting at meeting parts, and not praying for a group. The duration of restrictions depends on the elders. One cannot "pioneer" or "auxiliary pioneer" for at least one year after reproof is given.[90]
Marking is practiced if a person's course of action is regarded as a violation of Bible principles, reflecting badly on the congregation, but is not a disfellowshipping offense.[91] The person is strongly counseled. If, after repeated counsel sessions, the person still pursues the disturbing course, he might be 'marked', which involves an announcement stating that the actions in question are wrong, without naming the individual involved. Congregation members limit social contact with that person. The purpose of this is to shame the person into correcting their actions.[92] "Marked" individuals are not shunned completely, but social contact is minimized.[93]
Family life[edit]
The family structure is patriarchal. The husband is considered the final authority of family decisions, as the head of his family. Marriages must be monogamous. Wives should be submissive to their husbands and husbands are to have deep respect and love for their wives.[94] Husbands are instructed to treat their wives as Jesus treated his followers. He should not hurt or mistreat his family in any way. The father should be hard-working in providing necessities to his family. He must also provide for them in a spiritual capacity. This includes religious instruction for the family, and taking the lead in preaching activities. Parental discipline for children should not be in a harsh, cruel way. Children are instructed to obey their parents.
Married couples are encouraged to speak with local elders if they are having problems. Married couples can separate in the case of physical abuse and neglect, or if one partner attempts to hinder the other from being a Jehovah's Witness.[95] Remarriage after divorce is permissible only on the grounds of adultery, based on their understanding of Jesus' words at Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9.
Morality[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses demand high standards of morality within their ranks.[96] Their view of sexual behavior reflects conservative Christian views. Abortion is considered murder.[97] Homosexuality, premarital sex, and extramarital sex are considered “serious sins”.[98] Smoking (including electronic cigarettes),[99] abuse of drugs, and drunkenness are prohibited, though alcohol is permitted in moderation.[100][101] Modesty in dress and grooming is frequently stressed. Entertainment promoting immoral, "demonic", or violent themes is considered inappropriate. Members are warned that personal grooming such as beards, long hair or earrings for men, or other styles of dress or grooming might "stumble" the consciences of others.[102]
Gambling by making money through the losses of others is viewed as a "form of greed", and is prohibited.[103] The trading of stocks, shares and bonds is viewed as acceptable.[104]
Blood[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and blood transfusions
See also: Criticism of Jehovah's Witnesses



 Jehovah's Witnesses officially reject transfusions of whole allogeneic blood and some of its fractionated components
Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that the Bible prohibits the consumption, storage and transfusion of blood, based on their understanding of scriptures such as Leviticus 17:10, 11: "I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood," and Acts 15:29: "abstain from ... blood." This standpoint is applied even in emergencies. The Watchtower introduced this view in 1945, and it has developed since then.[105] Accordingly, the organization has established Hospital Information Services (HIS), which provides education and facilitation of bloodless surgery. This service also maintains Hospital Liaison Committees, which support adherents facing surgery and provide information to the medical community on bloodless surgery techniques and alternatives to blood.[106]
Though accepted by most members, some within the Jehovah's Witness community do not endorse the doctrine.[107]
Spiritual warfare[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications teach that Witnesses are engaged in a "spiritual, theocratic warfare" against false teachings and wicked spirit forces they say try to impede them in their preaching work.[108] Based on their interpretation of Ephesians 6:10-20, they believe their "spiritual war" is fought with truth, righteousness, the "good news of peace", faith, the hope of salvation, God's word and prayer.[109][110] They have advocated the use of "theocratic war strategy" to protect the interests of God's cause, which would include hiding the truth from God's "enemies"[111][112] by being evasive or withholding truthful or incriminating information from those not entitled by law to know.[113][114][115] The Watchtower told Witnesses: "It is proper to cover over our arrangements for the work that God commands us to do. If the wolfish foes draw wrong conclusions from our maneuvers to outwit them, no harm has been done to them by the harmless sheep, innocent in their motives as doves."[116]
Separateness[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that it is vital to remain "separate from the world" in harmony with Jesus' description of his followers at John 17:14-16. Watch Tower publications define the "world" as "the mass of mankind apart from Jehovah’s approved servants" and teach that it is ruled by Satan[117] and a place of danger[118] and moral contamination.[119] Witnesses manifest their world-renouncing beliefs in many ways. They avoid involvement in social controversies,[120] remain politically neutral, and do not seek public office. The Watch Tower Society has stated that voting in political elections is a personal conscience decision,[121] though a Witness who takes any action considered to be a "violation of Christian neutrality" may face religious sanctions.[122] They refuse participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities,[123][124] abstain from celebrating religious holidays, and reject many customs they claim have pagan origins. They do not work in industries associated with the military, nor serve in the armed services,[125] and refuse national military service, which in some countries may result in their arrest and imprisonment.[126] They do not salute or pledge allegiance to national flags or sing national anthems or other patriotic songs.[127]
Witnesses are urged to minimize their social contact with non-members[128][129][130] because of perceived dangers of worldly association.[131][132] Sociologist Andrew Holden indicated they are highly selective in choosing with whom they spend leisure time, generally choosing the company of other Witnesses. Many Witnesses interviewed by Holden reported tensions and ostracism at work because of their religious beliefs.[133] He reported that many converts to the religion required some social adjustment as they gradually reduced contact with non-Witness friends.[134] Association with those outside the organization, commonly termed by Witnesses as "worldly" and "not in the Truth", is acceptable only when it is viewed as an opportunity to preach[128][135] and Witnesses are under considerable pressure from the Society to show outsiders they are people of high moral fiber. Holden claims that as a result, Witnesses working with "worldly" colleagues tend to closely adhere to Watch Tower teachings.[136]
Sociologist Ronald Lawson has suggested that it is the religion's intellectual and organizational isolation—coupled with the intense indoctrination of adherents, rigid internal discipline and considerable persecution—that has contributed to the consistency of its sense of urgency in its apocalyptic message.[137]
Celebrations[edit]
Weddings, anniversaries, and funerals are observed, though they avoid incorporating certain traditions they see to have pagan origins.[138][139] The Watchtower has stated that the use of wedding rings by Witnesses is acceptable, even though wedding rings may have first been used by pagans, based on its conclusion that there is no definite evidence wedding rings were used "as part of false religious practices" (emphasis from original).[140] Witnesses typically observe wedding anniversaries, with the Watch Tower Society noting that wedding anniversaries apparently do not stem from pagan origins.[141]
Other common celebrations and religious or national holidays such as birthdays, Halloween, and Christmas[142] are not celebrated because they believe that these continue to involve "false religious beliefs or activities."[143][144] Watch Tower Society publications rule out the celebration of Mother's Day because of a claimed link with pagan gods[145] and concerns that giving "special honor and worship" to mothers is a form of "creature worship" that could turn people away from God.[146] The Society also directs Witnesses to shun May Day, New Year's Day and Valentine's Day celebrations because of their pagan origins.[147]
Their opposition to birthdays is said to be based on how the Bible presents them. Watch Tower Society publications note that the only birthday celebrations explicitly mentioned in the Bible are those of an unnamed Pharaoh and Herod Antipas, and that both were associated with executions, and neither celebrant was a servant of God.[148] Though some religions interpret Job 1:4 to indicate birthday feasts of Job's sons, Jehovah's Witnesses interpret them as a circuit of feasts from one house to the next.[149] The Bible does not show Jesus or his apostles celebrating birthdays and The Watchtower claims the absence of any record of the date of the birth of Jesus or his apostles indicates that "God does not want us to celebrate any of these birthdays".[150]
Construction[edit]
International and regional building teams frequently undertake constructions of Kingdom Halls over the course of one or two weekends, termed "quick-builds". Larger construction projects, including building regional Assembly Halls and Bethel offices, factories, residences, warehouses, and farm facilities, are also performed almost entirely by volunteer members.[citation needed]
Humanitarian efforts[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses provide relief assistance in disaster-stricken areas for their members and others in the vicinity. Medicine and clothing were provided to both Hutu and Tutsi Witnesses during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.[151] Following Hurricane Katrina, they helped rebuild houses of Witnesses and others.[152] The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses uses "Regional Building Committees" to oversee relief efforts worldwide.[153]
Funding of activities[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses fund their activities, such as publishing, constructing and operating facilities, evangelism, and disaster relief via donations. There is no tithing or collection, but on exceptional occasions, members are reminded to donate to the organization; Witnesses typically provide an opportunity for members of the public to make donations as they encounter them in their preaching work. Donation boxes labeled for several purposes are located in Kingdom Halls and other meeting facilities. Generally there are contribution boxes for local operating expenses, a Kingdom Hall fund for helping Witnesses around the world to build Kingdom Halls, and a general fund for the "Worldwide Work", which includes the printing of literature, organization of conventions, supporting missionaries and disaster relief, and other operating expenses of the organization.[154][155]
The accounts (including donations) and the financial operation of the local congregation are reviewed monthly and posted on a congregation notice board. Donations are also accepted via mail, and the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society can be named as a beneficiary to an estate, and also accepts donations in the form of life insurance policies, pension plans, bank accounts, certificates of deposit, retirement accounts, stocks and bonds, real estate, annuities and trusts.[156]
References[edit]

Question book-new.svg
 This article relies on references to primary sources. Please add references to secondary or tertiary sources. (December 2011)
1.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106.
2.Jump up ^ Keep Yourselves in God’s Love, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2008, page 43, "The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses represents the slave class. ... elders today receive instructions and counsel from the Governing Body, either directly or through its representatives, such as traveling overseers."
3.Jump up ^ "Keep Clear of False Worship!". The Watchtower: 30. March 15, 2006. "[Jehovah's Witnesses] are “no part of the world.” (John 15:19) The term “world” here refers to human society alienated from God. (Ephesians 4:17-19; 1 John 5:19) We are separate from the world in that we shun attitudes, speech, and conduct that offend Jehovah. (1 John 2:15-17) Moreover, in harmony with the principle that “bad associations spoil useful habits,” we avoid intimacy with those who do not live by Christian standards. (1 Corinthians 15:33) To be no part of the world is to remain “without spot from the world.” (James 1:27) Hence, being separate from the world does not mean that we physically withdraw from all contact with other people."
4.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 7, 109–112.
5.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 26, 28.
6.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 90.
7.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 163.
8.Jump up ^ "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", The Watchtower, June 1, 1992, page 18.
9.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 66–68.
10.^ Jump up to: a b c d e f g h Holden 2002, pp. 64–69.
11.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Botting, Gary (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 85. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
12.Jump up ^ "What Do You Do with Your Time?", The Watchtower, February 1, 1950, page 38, "By setting and meeting the goal never to miss any of the meetings that the Lord provides for His people, the Christian is protected against becoming involved in the affairs of this world. He doesn’t have time for it!"
13.Jump up ^ "Exert Yourselves Vigorously!", The Watchtower, April 1, 1972, page 206, "They do much private Bible study, attend five weekly congregation meetings and spend much time each month in preaching the good news of God’s kingdom and making disciples of people, besides providing support for themselves and their families. ... Being busy serves as a protection from many of the temptations and snares of the world, the flesh and the Devil."
14.Jump up ^ "Benefit Fully From the Service Meetings", Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1989, page 7.
15.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 420.
16.Jump up ^ "Families, Praise God as Part of His Congregation". The Watchtower: 20. 1 July 1999.
17.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Botting, Gary (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 143. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
18.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses—Who Are They? What Do They Believe?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2000, page 15.
19.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 51.
20.Jump up ^ "Are You Benefiting Yourself?", Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2000, page 3.
21.Jump up ^ "New Congregation Meeting Schedule", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 2008, page 1
22.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2007, p. 8 How the Congregation Book Study Arrangement Helps Us
23.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 265.
24.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 392.
25.Jump up ^ "Jehovah is a God of Covenants", The Watchtower, February 1, 1998, page 8, "Jesus instituted the only annual religious observance commanded for Christians—the Memorial of his death."
26.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, p. 207, "Who should partake of these Memorial emblems? Logically, only those in the new covenant—that is, those who have the hope of going to heaven—should partake of the bread and the wine. God’s holy spirit convinces such ones that they have been selected to be heavenly kings."
27.Jump up ^ Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses 2012, p. 31
28.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, p. 207.
29.Jump up ^ "Discerning What We Are — At Memorial Time", The Watchtower, February 15, 1990, p. 16.
30.^ Jump up to: a b c d Holden 2002, pp. 71–76.
31.Jump up ^ Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 7, pages 864-5, "The fundamental obligation of each member of the sect is to give witness to Jehovah by announcing His approaching Kingdom. ... They regard the Bible as their only source of belief and rule of conduct ... To be a true Witness one must preach effectively in one way or another.”
32.^ Jump up to: a b Question Box, Our Kingdom Ministry, June 1990, page 8.
33.Jump up ^ "Paying Back Caesar’s Things to Caesar", The Watchtower, May 1, 1996, page 16.
34.Jump up ^ Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, page 4.
35.Jump up ^ "Help Your Children Progress in the Ministry". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. July 2005.
36.Jump up ^ "We Are Witnesses All the Time". Our Kingdom Ministry: 6. September 2011.
37.Jump up ^ "Can We Make April 2000 Our Best Month Ever?". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. March 2000. "If you are uncertain about your ability to meet the 70-hour requirement for regular pioneers, why not auxiliary pioneer in April and set 70 hours as your goal?"
38.Jump up ^ "Declare Abroad the Excellencies of Jehovah". Our Kingdom Ministry: 4. February 2007. "Meeting the auxiliary pioneer requirement of 50 hours may not be as difficult as you think."
39.Jump up ^ Determined to Follow God’s Way of Life The Watchtower January 15, 1999 p. 6
40.Jump up ^ "A Worthy Goal for the New Service Year". Our Kingdom Ministry: 5. August 2007. "Even if you feel that you are unable to auxiliary pioneer during this coming service year, you can still maintain the pioneer spirit. Continue to do all that you can in the ministry, confident that Jehovah is pleased with your whole-souled effort to give him your best. (Gal. 6:4) Be supportive, and encourage those who are able to auxiliary pioneer. Perhaps you can adjust your schedule to share in the ministry an additional day of the week with those who are pioneering."
41.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 259.
42.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 196–206.
43.Jump up ^ "Preaching in a Lawless World", The Watchtower, July 15, 1979, page 13, paragraph 4, "It is by our endurance in proclaiming “this good news of the kingdom” that we may attain to salvation"; cited in Penton 1997, p. 206.
44.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
45.Jump up ^ Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
46.Jump up ^ "Do You Contribute to an Accurate Report?", Our Kingdom Ministry, December 2002, page 8.
47.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 247.
48.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 201.
49.Jump up ^ JW-media.org
50.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, p. 3
51.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 78.
52.Jump up ^ Swaggart Ministries v. California Board of Equalization case summary, US Supreme Court Media
53.Jump up ^ Watch Tower brief, Jimmy Swaggart Ministries vs California Board of Equalization, US Supreme Court, 1988.
54.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 320.
55.Jump up ^ Organized To Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 62.
56.Jump up ^ "Let Your Advancement Be Manifest", Watchtower, August 1, 1992, page 10.
57.Jump up ^ "Look to Jehovah for Insight", Watchtower, March 15, 1989, page 14.
58.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 88.
59.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 231
60.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 92–93
61.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach chap. 18 pp. 175-176 pars. 4-5 Baptism and Your Relationship With God
62.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/89 p. 13 par. 18 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
63.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will
64.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach? . | chap. 18 p. 182 par. 21 “Baptism and Your Relationship With God”
65.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/15/03 p. 31 Questions From Readers
66.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/1/06 p. 22 ‘Go And Make Disciples, Baptizing them’
67.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/89 p. 13 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
68.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers", The Watchtower, November 1, 1951, page 671-672, "The authorities of the land generally call for some ceremony in connection with ordination for the ministry... The legal [opinion] is recognizing the two classifications made concerning ministers, namely, ordained ministers and regular unordained ministers. ...[A]n unbaptized one...may still point out to the court [or other authority] that he has not as yet undergone the ordination ceremony of water immersion, and for that reason may be classed by the law of the land as a regular minister rather than an ordained minister."
69.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1976, page 5-6,"Since at times a request is made by officials for some evidence of “ordination” on the part of those serving in such capacities, a “Certificate for Ordained Minister” has been prepared and will be supplied on request to those elders or ministerial servants needing it. It will show the date, not of their baptism, but when they were appointed to serve in such capacities... But what of those who are engaged in full-time service as pioneers or members of Bethel families? ...Such appointment, however, does not fit the meaning of “ordination” as that term is generally understood [by non-Witnesses requesting these certificates]. ...Since the Bible itself sets out only the two congregational positions of responsibility, that of elders and of ministerial servants, we limit our application of the term “ordained minister” [as used by non-Witness authorities] to those in this Scriptural arrangement.[emphasis added]"
70.Jump up ^ "Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 18
71.Jump up ^ "The General Priesthood Today", The Watchtower, March 1, 1963, page 143
72.Jump up ^ "Head Coverings—When and Why?", Keep Yourselves in God's Love, ©2008 Watch Tower, pages 43-44 and 209-212
73.Jump up ^ "Women—May They Be “Ministers”?", The Watchtower, March 15, 1981, page 19, "Several courts in the United States have recognized female Jehovah’s Witnesses, in carrying on the door-to-door evangelistic work, as ministers. For example, the Supreme Court of Vermont, in Vermont v. Greaves (1941), stated that Elva Greaves “is an ordained minister of a sect or class known and designated as ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’.”"
74.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/15/87 p. 13.
75.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/1/95 p. 30 par. 3
76.Jump up ^ Pay Attention To Yourself and All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1991, page 94, "Apostasy is a standing away from, a falling away, defection, rebellion, abandonment; it involves teaching false doctrines, supporting or promoting false religion and its holidays or interfaith activities ... Persons who deliberately spread (stubbornly hold to and speak about) teachings contrary to Bible truth as taught by Jehovah's Witnesses are apostates."
77.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures p. 34 Apostasy "Others claim to believe the Bible but reject Jehovah’s organization."
78.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/1/86 p. 31.
79.Jump up ^ To All Circuit and District Overseers, September 1, 1980, "Keep in mind that to be disfellowshipped, an apostate does not have to be a promoter of apostate views. ... if a baptized Christian abandons the teachings of Jehovah, as presented by the faithful and discreet slave, and persists in believing other doctrine despite Scriptural reproof, then he is apostatizing. ... [If] he continues to believe the apostate ideas and rejects what he has been provided through the 'slave class,' then appropriate judicial action should be taken. ... [If] something reasonably substantial comes to the attention of the elders along this line, it would be appropriate to make a kindly, discreet inquiry so as to protect the flock." Letter reproduced in Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz, 1983, chapter 11.
80.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock - pgs. 121-122
81.Jump up ^ The Watchtower April 15, 1988 Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit Pgs. 26-31.
82.Jump up ^ “Helping Minors to Worship God”, Awake! 11/15, 1988, p. 20.
83.Jump up ^ "Thus, it would be left to members of the family to decide on the extent to which the disfellowshipped family member would be included when eating or engaging in other household activities. And yet, they would not want to give brothers with whom they associate the impression that everything is the same as it was before the disfellowshipping occurred." Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is Disfellowshipped, p 4. Scan available at JWfiles.com accessed January 27, 2006.
84.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, p. 26., "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum."
85.Jump up ^ "Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit", The Watchtower April 15, 1988, p. 26.
86.Jump up ^ “Questions From Readers”, The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30-31.
87.Jump up ^ “Repentance Leading Back to God”, The Watchtower, September 1, 1981, p. 27 par. 30.
88.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1975, p. 4.
89.Jump up ^ "Reproofs Are the Way of Life", The Watchtower, November 15, 1977 p. 691.
90.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
91.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 15, 1999, p. 30
92.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1985, p. 31.
93.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1984 p. 31.
94.Jump up ^ The Bible's Viewpoint What Does It Mean to Be the Head of the House?, Awake! 2004b, July 8, 2004, p. 26.
95.Jump up ^ The Secret of Family Happiness, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, pp. 160-161.
96.Jump up ^ "Are You Faithful in All Things?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2005, page 26-30.
97.Jump up ^ "Abortion", Reasoning from the Scriptures, page 25-26.
98.Jump up ^ "Young People Ask... What's Wrong With Premarital Sex?", Awake!, July 22, 2004, pages 12-14.
99.Jump up ^ "What Is God’s View of Smoking?", The Watchtower, June 1, 2014, page 4. The footnote reads: "Smoking here refers to inhaling tobacco smoke directly from cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or water pipes. However, the principles discussed apply equally to the use of chewing tobacco, snuff, electronic cigarettes that contain nicotine, and other products."
100.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993,p. 180.
101.Jump up ^ “You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy”, The Watchtower, February 15, 1976, p. 123 par. 16.
102.Jump up ^ “When Another’s Conscience Is Involved”, Awake! April 22, 1979, pp. 27-28
103.Jump up ^ "Does the Bible Condemn Gambling?", The Watchtower, March 1, 2011, pages 12-14.
104.Jump up ^ "Is It Wise to Invest in the Stock Market?", Awake!, October 8, 2000, pages 25-27.
105.Jump up ^ Watchtower.org
106.Jump up ^ Watchtower.org
107.Jump up ^ Lee Elder, The Associated Jehovah's Witnesses for Reform on Blood, "Why some Jehovah's Witnesses accept blood and conscientiously reject official Watchtower Society blood policy", Journal of Medical Ethics, 2000, Vol 26, pages 375-380.
108.Jump up ^ "Flocking Together in Battle Line", The Watchtower, March 1, 1983, page 17.
109.Jump up ^ "Fight the fine Fight of faith", The Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 26–27.
110.Jump up ^ "Waging the Right Warfare", The Watchtower, June 15, 1956, page 365.
111.Jump up ^ "Use theocratic war strategy", The Watchtower, May 1, 1957, page 285,286.
112.Jump up ^ "Questions from readers", The Watchtower, June 1, 1960, pages 351-352.
113.Jump up ^ "Christians live the truth", The Watchtower, October 1, 1954, page 597.
114.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 244-245.
115.Jump up ^ Examining the Scriptures Daily", May 18, 2011, "Does being truthful with others mean that we must disclose every detail to whoever asks us a question? Not necessarily ... Jehovah's people need to be on guard against apostates and other wicked men who use trickery or cunning for selfish purposes."
116.Jump up ^ "Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves", The Watchtower, February 1, 1956, page 86.
117.Jump up ^ Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 435-436.
118.Jump up ^ "Live a Balanced, Simple Life", The Watchtower, July 15, 1989, page 11.
119.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 12.
120.Jump up ^ What Does God Require?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, page 13.
121.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, November 1, 1999, p. 28, "As to whether they will personally vote for someone running in an election, each one of Jehovah’s Witnesses makes a decision based on his Bible-trained conscience and an understanding of his responsibility to God and to the State.
122.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock, page 140.
123.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 188)
124.Jump up ^ Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 269-270.
125.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, p. 159.
126.Jump up ^ Watch Tower Press Release, October 4, 2007
127.Jump up ^ Education, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, pp. 20-23
128.^ Jump up to: a b Franz 2007, p. 409.
129.Jump up ^ "Train With Godly Devotion as Your Aim", Watchtower, August 15, 1985, page 19.
130.Jump up ^ "Have a Full Share in the Great Spiritual Harvest", The Watchtower, July 15, 2010, page 19, "Do you avoid unnecessary fellowship with schoolmates and fellow workers who do not share your beliefs? ... Your faithful compliance in such matters will bring excellent results."
131.Jump up ^ Survival Into a New Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1984, page 168.
132.Jump up ^ "Each One Will Carry His Own Load", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 23.
133.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 109–112.
134.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 69.
135.Jump up ^ "Keep Clear of False Worship!", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 30, "Should we hold ourselves completely aloof from those who do not share our faith? The answer is no. The second of the two greatest commandments states: 'You must love your neighbor as yourself.' We certainly display love for our neighbors when we share with them the good news of the Kingdom."
136.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 123.
137.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-state relations: Accounting for the differing trajectories of Seventh-Day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, Winter 1995, "The urgency of the Witness's apocalyptic has changed very little over time. The intellectual isolation of the Witness leaders has allowed them to retain their traditional position, and it is they who continue to be the chief purveyors of the radical eschatology ....This commitment (to principle) was bolstered by their organizational isolation, intense indoctrination of adherents, rigid internal discipline, and considerable persecution."
138.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/69 p. 58 Christian Weddings Should Reflect Reasonableness "Of course, some customs are unscriptural and so they are objectionable to Christians. ... Other customs are plainly acts of false worship. So one planning a wedding does well to examine practices common in his area and analyze how people view them locally."
139.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 7/15/98 p. 24 A Christian View of Funeral Customs "Funeral customs do not always conflict with Bible principles. When they do, Christians are determined to act in harmony with the Scriptures."
140.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/72 p. 63 "It is thus seen that the precise origin of the wedding ring is uncertain. Even if it were a fact that pagans first used wedding rings, would that rule such out for Christians? Not necessarily."
141.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 1, 1971, p. 735.
142.Jump up ^ "Christmas Customs—Are They Christian", The Watchtower, December 15, 2000, page 3-7, Online
143.Jump up ^ Awake! 7/8/04 p. 30 "Christians refrain from any celebrations or customs that continue to involve false religious beliefs or activities that violate Bible principles. For example, the Bible definitely puts birthday celebrations in a bad light"
144.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998, p. 30.
145.Jump up ^ “They Are No Part of the World”, Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, page 199, "Jehovah’s Witnesses have good times with their families and friends. But they do not participate in holidays and celebrations that are linked with pagan gods (as is true of such holidays as Easter, New Year’s Day, May Day, and Mother’s Day)."
146.Jump up ^ Vindication, J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1931, pages 158-159.
147.Jump up ^ "What Is the Bible’s View? Are They Harmless Observances?", Awake!, February 8, 1974, Page 27.
148.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998. pp. 30-31.
149.Jump up ^ Job 1:4 reads "And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them." (King James version)
150.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, November 15, 1960, p. 704.
151.Jump up ^ "Christianity in Action: Amid Turmoil", The Watchtower, January 15, 1998.
152.Jump up ^ Awake!, June 2006, page 19, "Heeding the Warnings Made a Difference"
153.Jump up ^ Awake!, June 2006, p.19.
154.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, December 2003, p. 7
155.Jump up ^ “A New Program for Kingdom Hall Construction”, Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, September 1983, p. 4-5.
156.Jump up ^ "Ways in Which Some Choose to Give Contributions to the Worldwide Work", The Watchtower, November 1, 2006, page 20
Bibliography[edit]
Franz, Raymond (2002). Crisis of Conscience (4th ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-24-9.
Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom (2nd ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-17-6.
Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
Penton, James M. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
External links[edit]
Official Website
 



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Jehovah's Witnesses practices
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
The practices of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the biblical interpretations of Charles Taze Russell, founder of the Bible Student movement, and successive presidents of the Watch Tower Society, Joseph Franklin Rutherford and Nathan Homer Knorr. Since 1976 they have also been based on decisions made at closed meetings of the religion's Governing Body.[1][2] Instructions regarding activities and acceptable behavior are disseminated through The Watchtower magazine and other official publications, and at conventions and congregation meetings.
Jehovah's Witnesses endeavor to remain "separate from the world",[3] which is regarded as a place of moral contamination and under the control of Satan, refusing any political and military activity and limiting social contact with non-Witnesses.[4] Members practice a strict moral code, which forbids premarital and homosexual sex, adultery, smoking, drunkenness and drug abuse, and blood transfusions.[5] Discipline within congregations is maintained by a system of judicial committees, which have the power to expel members who breach organizational rules and demand their shunning by other Witnesses.[6] The threat of shunning also serves to deter other members from dissident behavior.[7][8]
Members are expected to participate regularly in evangelizing work and attend all congregation meetings, as well as regular large-scale conventions, which are highly structured and based on material from Watch Tower Society publications.[9]



Contents  [hide]
1 Worship 1.1 Weekend meeting
1.2 Midweek meeting
1.3 Memorial of Christ's death
1.4 Assemblies and conventions
2 Evangelism
3 Watch Tower Society literature
4 Conversion
5 Ministers and ordination
6 Discipline
7 Family life
8 Morality
9 Blood
10 Spiritual warfare
11 Separateness
12 Celebrations
13 Construction
14 Humanitarian efforts
15 Funding of activities
16 References
17 Bibliography
18 External links

Worship[edit]



 A Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses


 Worship at a Kingdom Hall
Meetings for worship and study are held at Kingdom Halls, and are open to the public. Witnesses are assigned to a congregation in which "territory" they reside and are expected to attend weekly meetings as scheduled by the Watch Tower Society and congregation elders. The meetings are largely devoted to study of the Bible and Witness doctrines; traditions of mysticism, glossolalia, creed recitation or periods of silent meditation common in other Christian denominations are absent.[10] During meetings and in other formal circumstances, Witnesses refer to one another as "Brother" and "Sister".[11] Sociologist Andrew Holden claims meetings create an atmosphere of uniformity for Witnesses, intensify their sense of belonging to a religious community, and reinforce the plausibility of the organization's belief system.[10] He says they are also important in helping new converts adopt a different way of life.[10] According to The Watchtower, one role of the frequency and length of meetings is to protect Witnesses from becoming "involved in the affairs of the world."[12][13]
The form and content of the meetings is established by the religion's Brooklyn headquarters, generally involving a consideration of the same subject matter worldwide each week.[10] Two meetings each week are divided into five distinct sections, lasting a total of about four hours. Meetings are opened and closed with hymns and brief prayers delivered from the platform. Witnesses are urged to prepare for all meetings by studying Watch Tower literature from which the content is drawn and looking up the scriptures cited in the articles.[14] Kingdom Halls are typically functional in character, and contain no religious symbols.[10] Each year, Witnesses from several congregations, which form a "circuit", gather for one-day and two-day assemblies; several circuits meet once a year for a three-day "district convention", and several districts gather every few years for a four-day "international convention". These larger gatherings are usually held at rented stadiums or auditoriums. Their most important and solemn event is the celebration of the "Lord's Evening Meal", or "Memorial of Christ's Death".
Weekend meeting[edit]
The weekend meeting, usually held on Sunday, comprises a 30-minute public talk by a congregation elder or ministerial servant and a one-hour question-and-answer study of a Bible-based article from The Watchtower magazine,[10] with questions prepared by the Watch Tower Society and the answers provided in the magazine.[15] Members may use their own words to express the ideas in the printed material,[16] though personal ideas derived from independent study are discouraged.[10][17]
Midweek meeting[edit]
The midweek meeting, typically held in the evening, includes a question-and-answer "Congregation Bible Study" (30 minutes) based on a Watch Tower Society publication;[10][18] the "Theocratic Ministry School" (30 minutes), designed to train Witnesses in public speaking and proselytizing using talks and rehearsals of doorstop sermons;[19] and the "Service Meeting" (30 minutes), following an agenda set in the Society's monthly newsletter Our Kingdom Ministry to train Witnesses to participate in the public ministry.[20] Before 2009, the midweek meeting consisted of the Theocratic Ministry School and the Service Meeting (each 45 minutes);[21] the Congregation Book Study (1 hour) was typically held on a separate evening, divided into smaller groups meeting in private homes.[22]
Memorial of Christ's death[edit]
See also: Eucharist
Jehovah's Witnesses commemorate Christ's death as a ransom or "propitiatory sacrifice" by observing the Lord's Evening Meal, or Memorial. They celebrate it once per year, noting that it was instituted on the Passover, an annual festival.[23] They observe it on Nisan 14 according to the ancient Jewish luni-solar calendar.[24] Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that this is the only celebration the Bible commands Christians to observe.[25]
Of those who attend the Memorial, a small minority worldwide partake of the unleavened bread and wine. This is because Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the majority of the faithful have an earthly hope. Only those who believe they have a heavenly hope, the "remnant" (those still living) of the 144,000 "anointed", partake of the bread and wine.[26] In 2011, the number of persons who partook worldwide was 11,824, whereas the number who attended was 19,374,737.[27]
The Memorial, held after sunset, includes a talk on the meaning of the celebration and the circulation among the audience of unadulterated red wine and unleavened bread. Jehovah's Witnesses believe the bread symbolizes Jesus Christ's body which he gave on behalf of mankind, and that the wine symbolizes his blood which redeems from sin. They do not believe in transubstantiation or consubstantiation.[28][29] Because many congregations have no members who claim to be anointed, it is common for no one to partake of the bread and wine.
Assemblies and conventions[edit]



 A District Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses
Each year, Jehovah's Witnesses hold two one day "Circuit Assemblies", held in each circuit worldwide. Each circuit comprises several congregations in a geographical area. These are held either in Assembly Halls owned by Jehovah's Witnesses, or in rented facilities, such as public auditoriums. Once a year, Jehovah's Witnesses gather at larger assemblies called "Regional Conventions" which are usually three days long (Friday to Sunday). These conventions consist primarily of Bible-based sermons, including demonstrations and experiences of their preaching work. They also often feature live, full-costume dramatic plays re-enacting biblical accounts—such as Moses and the Plagues of Egypt, and Lot in Sodom and Gomorrah—or contemporary settings based on biblical principles. Every few years, "International Conventions" are held in selected cities, with visiting delegates from other countries. The attendance of some of these International conventions numbers into the hundreds of thousands, with the largest-ever gathering held in New York in 1958 at Yankee Stadium and Polo Grounds with a peak attendance exceeding 250,000.[citation needed]
Evangelism[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses are known for their preaching from house to house
Jehovah's Witnesses believe they are under obligation to God to "give witness" by participating in organized and spontaneous evangelizing and proselytizing work,[30][31] with baptism permitted only for those who demonstrate "regular and zealous" participation.[32] Baptism is regarded as an automatic ordination as a minister[33] and from that time Witnesses feel a moral obligation to serve as "publishers", disseminating Watch Tower doctrines as evangelists of "the Truth".[30] Watch Tower publications describe house-to-house visitations as the primary work of Jehovah's Witnesses[32] in obedience to a "divine command" to preach "the Kingdom good news in all the earth and (make) disciples of people of all the nations".[34] Children usually accompany their parents and participate in the public ministry.[35] In addition to taking part in organized door-to-door preaching, Witnesses are taught that they should seek opportunities to "witness informally" by starting conversations with people they meet during routine activities such as shopping or on public transport, and directing the conversation towards their beliefs.[36]
Members who commit themselves to evangelize for 840 hours per year (an average of 70 hours per month) are called regular pioneers.[37] Those who commit themselves to evangelize for 50 hours for one month are called auxiliary pioneers, which they may do for consecutive months.[38] Some Witnesses volunteer for missionary service, and may be invited to receive specialized training at the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead. These individuals dedicate, on average, more than 120 hours per month to their work.[39] Members who are not able to 'pioneer' are told they may maintain the "pioneer spirit", by spending as much time as they can in preaching and by supporting the efforts of pioneers.[40] Witnesses are frequently instructed through Watch Tower Society publications, and at meetings and conventions, to increase the quality and quantity of their preaching efforts.[41][42] Watch Tower Society publications suggest that endurance in public preaching is the means by which Witnesses attain salvation,[43][44] and that evangelizing frees them from blood-guilt regarding individuals who might die at Armageddon without having heard about God's kingdom.[45]
Specialized "territory" maps of residential and commercial areas are prepared within the boundaries of each congregation's territory and distributed to publishers who are responsible for preaching within that area. Witnesses are instructed to fill out monthly report slips on their preaching activity,[46] listing the hours spent, publications placed with householders, and the number of "return visits" made to households where interest had been shown formerly.[30] The reports are used to help measure the "spirituality" of individuals[30][47] and to establish the eligibility of men as congregation elders and ministerial servants.[48] A Witness who fails to report for a month is termed an "irregular publisher"; one who has not turned in a field service report for six months consecutively is termed an "inactive publisher".
Witnesses have, in the past, used a wide variety of methods to spread their faith, including information marches, where members wore sandwich boards and handed out leaflets, to sound cars (car-mounted phonographs), and syndicated newspaper columns and radio segments devoted to sermons. Between 1924 and 1957, the organization operated a radio station, WBBR, from New York.
Watch Tower Society literature[edit]
See also: Jehovah's Witnesses publications and List of Watch Tower Society publications
Jehovah's Witnesses make extensive use of Watch Tower Society literature, including books, magazines, booklets and handbills, to spread their beliefs and to use as textbooks at their religious meetings. The publications are produced in many languages, with a small selection available in 500 languages. Their primary journal, The Watchtower is published simultaneously in nearly two hundred languages[49] and, along with Awake!, available in audio and electronic formats. Issues of both publications are compiled annually into bound volumes, and are added yearly to the Watchtower Library CD-ROM, which contains many Witness publications from 1950 onward, and is officially available to baptized members only.[50] New books, brochures, and other items are released at their annual conventions. Additionally, a number of audio cassettes, videocassettes, and DVDs have been produced explaining the group's beliefs, practices, organization and history. Some of these also provide dramas based on biblical accounts. Since 1942 all Watch Tower literature has been published anonymously.[51]
Publications were sold to the public until the early 1990s, from which time they were offered free of charge, with a request for donations. The change in policy was first announced in the United States in February 1990, following the loss of a US Supreme Court court case by Jimmy Swaggart Ministries on the issue of sales tax exemption for religious groups.[52] The Watch Tower Society had joined the case as an Amicus curiae, or "friend of the court".[53] The court ruling would have resulted in the Watch Tower Society having to pay millions of dollars in sales tax if sales of their literature had continued.[54]
Witnesses are urged to prepare for congregation meetings by studying the assigned Watch Tower literature,[55] and are expected to read all magazines and books published by the Society.[56][57][58] One analysis noted that each year Witnesses are expected to read more than 3,000 pages of the Society's publications, according to its suggested program for personal study. In 1981 this would have included 1,536 pages from The Watchtower and Awake!, 48 pages from Our Kingdom Ministry, 384 pages of a book for the congregation book study, 384 pages from the Yearbook, 360 pages of the Theocratic Ministry School textbook and 258 pages of assembly releases in addition to scheduled weekly Bible reading.[59] Much of the literature is illustrated extensively, with sociologist Andrew Holden observing utopian, post-Armageddon images of happy Witnesses in bright sunshine and pristine environments, often playing with formerly wild animals such as lions and tigers, in contrast to dark-colored images of unfavorable activities such as murders, burglaries and promiscuity that highlight the moral dangers outside the organization.[60]
Conversion[edit]
To become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, one must first follow a systematic Bible study course. In time, one must participate regularly in the preaching work, and attend meetings.[61] One must also accept Jesus' ransom sacrifice and repent of sins, and make a personal dedication to God.[62]
The elders ask a series of questions to ensure that the person understands and accepts the beliefs of the Witnesses[63] in preparation for baptism.[64] Baptisms are normally performed at assemblies and conventions. At these baptisms, candidates make "public declaration" of their prior dedication to God.[65] The speaker asks the candidates the following two questions.
1.“On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?”
2.“Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God’s spirit-directed organization?”
After the candidates answer both questions in the affirmative, they can acceptably undergo water immersion.[66][67]
Ministers and ordination[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses consider as "ministers" all adherents who have been approved to engage in formal evangelizing. Witnesses consider their baptisms to be ordinations; unbaptized publishers are considered "regular ministers" whereas baptized publishers are considered "ordained ministers".[68] Witnesses recognize that many government and administrative precedents for ministers are not intended to include all active adherents.[69] For example, only elders assert ecclesiastical privilege and confessional privilege.[70]
Only males may be appointed as elders and ministerial servants (their term for deacons), and only baptized males may officiate at weddings, funerals, and baptisms.[71] A female Witness minister may only lead congregational prayer and teaching in unusual circumstances, and must wear a head covering while doing so. Outside the congregation, a female minister also wears a head covering when she leads spiritual teaching in the presence of her husband, according to the Christian complementarian view. Female headcovering is not required for other forms of teaching, or when participating in congregation meetings being led by another.[72] Some courts and government agencies have recognized that full-time Jehovah's Witnesses appointees, such as "pioneers" and those in the faith's religious order, qualify for ministerial exemptions regardless of gender.[73]
Discipline[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
Formal discipline is administered by congregation elders. In the event that an accusation of serious sin is made concerning a baptized member, if there is sufficient evidence, a tribunal or judicial committee is formed to determine guilt, administer help and possibly apply sanctions.
Disfellowshipping is the most severe form of discipline administered. Before taking this step, the judicial committee must determine that the individual has committed a "serious sin" and that there is no evidence of true repentance.[74] To judge that repentance is genuine, members of the judicial committee ask questions and review the actions of the accused member.[75] Baptized members who spread teachings contrary to the doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses can be disfellowshipped for apostasy,[76][77][78] and a 1981 letter to overseers—reproduced in a book by former Governing Body member Raymond Franz—directed that a member who "persists in believing other doctrine", even without promoting such beliefs, may also be subject to disfellowshipping.[79] Once the decision to disfellowship has been made, a person has seven days to appeal, after which, if the person has not appealed, the disfellowshipping will be announced to the congregation; disfellowshipping does not take effect until the announcement is made to the congregation.[80] After a person is disfellowshipped, the person is shunned by all baptized members.[81] Exceptions to this would include cases where a member was forced to have commercial dealings with a member who is disfellowshipped, or if the disfellowshipped member is living with family members who are baptized. In these cases, the Witness are not permitted to speak about matters pertaining to the religion, except in the case of parents conducting a Bible study with a disfellowshipped minor.[82] The extent to which disfellowshipped or disassociated relatives living in the same household are included in family life is left to the discretion of the family.[83] Family members living outside the home who are disfellowshipped have minimal contact.[84][85]
Reproof involves sins that could lead to disfellowshipping. Ones considered "truly repentant" are reproved rather than disfellowshipped.[86] Reproof is given "before all onlookers", based on their interpretation of 1 Timothy 5:20. If the sin is private in nature, the reproof would involve just the individual(s) involved. If the sin is known generally by the entire congregation or the community, an announcement is made informing the congregation that the person has been reproved. Later, without disclosing names or private details, one of the elders gives a separate talk ensuring that the congregation understands the sin, its dangers, and how to avoid it.[87] Reproved individuals have some congregation privileges restricted, until the elders decide that the member has regained "spiritual strength."[88][89] Restrictions may include not sharing in meeting parts, not commenting at meeting parts, and not praying for a group. The duration of restrictions depends on the elders. One cannot "pioneer" or "auxiliary pioneer" for at least one year after reproof is given.[90]
Marking is practiced if a person's course of action is regarded as a violation of Bible principles, reflecting badly on the congregation, but is not a disfellowshipping offense.[91] The person is strongly counseled. If, after repeated counsel sessions, the person still pursues the disturbing course, he might be 'marked', which involves an announcement stating that the actions in question are wrong, without naming the individual involved. Congregation members limit social contact with that person. The purpose of this is to shame the person into correcting their actions.[92] "Marked" individuals are not shunned completely, but social contact is minimized.[93]
Family life[edit]
The family structure is patriarchal. The husband is considered the final authority of family decisions, as the head of his family. Marriages must be monogamous. Wives should be submissive to their husbands and husbands are to have deep respect and love for their wives.[94] Husbands are instructed to treat their wives as Jesus treated his followers. He should not hurt or mistreat his family in any way. The father should be hard-working in providing necessities to his family. He must also provide for them in a spiritual capacity. This includes religious instruction for the family, and taking the lead in preaching activities. Parental discipline for children should not be in a harsh, cruel way. Children are instructed to obey their parents.
Married couples are encouraged to speak with local elders if they are having problems. Married couples can separate in the case of physical abuse and neglect, or if one partner attempts to hinder the other from being a Jehovah's Witness.[95] Remarriage after divorce is permissible only on the grounds of adultery, based on their understanding of Jesus' words at Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9.
Morality[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses demand high standards of morality within their ranks.[96] Their view of sexual behavior reflects conservative Christian views. Abortion is considered murder.[97] Homosexuality, premarital sex, and extramarital sex are considered “serious sins”.[98] Smoking (including electronic cigarettes),[99] abuse of drugs, and drunkenness are prohibited, though alcohol is permitted in moderation.[100][101] Modesty in dress and grooming is frequently stressed. Entertainment promoting immoral, "demonic", or violent themes is considered inappropriate. Members are warned that personal grooming such as beards, long hair or earrings for men, or other styles of dress or grooming might "stumble" the consciences of others.[102]
Gambling by making money through the losses of others is viewed as a "form of greed", and is prohibited.[103] The trading of stocks, shares and bonds is viewed as acceptable.[104]
Blood[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and blood transfusions
See also: Criticism of Jehovah's Witnesses



 Jehovah's Witnesses officially reject transfusions of whole allogeneic blood and some of its fractionated components
Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that the Bible prohibits the consumption, storage and transfusion of blood, based on their understanding of scriptures such as Leviticus 17:10, 11: "I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood," and Acts 15:29: "abstain from ... blood." This standpoint is applied even in emergencies. The Watchtower introduced this view in 1945, and it has developed since then.[105] Accordingly, the organization has established Hospital Information Services (HIS), which provides education and facilitation of bloodless surgery. This service also maintains Hospital Liaison Committees, which support adherents facing surgery and provide information to the medical community on bloodless surgery techniques and alternatives to blood.[106]
Though accepted by most members, some within the Jehovah's Witness community do not endorse the doctrine.[107]
Spiritual warfare[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications teach that Witnesses are engaged in a "spiritual, theocratic warfare" against false teachings and wicked spirit forces they say try to impede them in their preaching work.[108] Based on their interpretation of Ephesians 6:10-20, they believe their "spiritual war" is fought with truth, righteousness, the "good news of peace", faith, the hope of salvation, God's word and prayer.[109][110] They have advocated the use of "theocratic war strategy" to protect the interests of God's cause, which would include hiding the truth from God's "enemies"[111][112] by being evasive or withholding truthful or incriminating information from those not entitled by law to know.[113][114][115] The Watchtower told Witnesses: "It is proper to cover over our arrangements for the work that God commands us to do. If the wolfish foes draw wrong conclusions from our maneuvers to outwit them, no harm has been done to them by the harmless sheep, innocent in their motives as doves."[116]
Separateness[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that it is vital to remain "separate from the world" in harmony with Jesus' description of his followers at John 17:14-16. Watch Tower publications define the "world" as "the mass of mankind apart from Jehovah’s approved servants" and teach that it is ruled by Satan[117] and a place of danger[118] and moral contamination.[119] Witnesses manifest their world-renouncing beliefs in many ways. They avoid involvement in social controversies,[120] remain politically neutral, and do not seek public office. The Watch Tower Society has stated that voting in political elections is a personal conscience decision,[121] though a Witness who takes any action considered to be a "violation of Christian neutrality" may face religious sanctions.[122] They refuse participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities,[123][124] abstain from celebrating religious holidays, and reject many customs they claim have pagan origins. They do not work in industries associated with the military, nor serve in the armed services,[125] and refuse national military service, which in some countries may result in their arrest and imprisonment.[126] They do not salute or pledge allegiance to national flags or sing national anthems or other patriotic songs.[127]
Witnesses are urged to minimize their social contact with non-members[128][129][130] because of perceived dangers of worldly association.[131][132] Sociologist Andrew Holden indicated they are highly selective in choosing with whom they spend leisure time, generally choosing the company of other Witnesses. Many Witnesses interviewed by Holden reported tensions and ostracism at work because of their religious beliefs.[133] He reported that many converts to the religion required some social adjustment as they gradually reduced contact with non-Witness friends.[134] Association with those outside the organization, commonly termed by Witnesses as "worldly" and "not in the Truth", is acceptable only when it is viewed as an opportunity to preach[128][135] and Witnesses are under considerable pressure from the Society to show outsiders they are people of high moral fiber. Holden claims that as a result, Witnesses working with "worldly" colleagues tend to closely adhere to Watch Tower teachings.[136]
Sociologist Ronald Lawson has suggested that it is the religion's intellectual and organizational isolation—coupled with the intense indoctrination of adherents, rigid internal discipline and considerable persecution—that has contributed to the consistency of its sense of urgency in its apocalyptic message.[137]
Celebrations[edit]
Weddings, anniversaries, and funerals are observed, though they avoid incorporating certain traditions they see to have pagan origins.[138][139] The Watchtower has stated that the use of wedding rings by Witnesses is acceptable, even though wedding rings may have first been used by pagans, based on its conclusion that there is no definite evidence wedding rings were used "as part of false religious practices" (emphasis from original).[140] Witnesses typically observe wedding anniversaries, with the Watch Tower Society noting that wedding anniversaries apparently do not stem from pagan origins.[141]
Other common celebrations and religious or national holidays such as birthdays, Halloween, and Christmas[142] are not celebrated because they believe that these continue to involve "false religious beliefs or activities."[143][144] Watch Tower Society publications rule out the celebration of Mother's Day because of a claimed link with pagan gods[145] and concerns that giving "special honor and worship" to mothers is a form of "creature worship" that could turn people away from God.[146] The Society also directs Witnesses to shun May Day, New Year's Day and Valentine's Day celebrations because of their pagan origins.[147]
Their opposition to birthdays is said to be based on how the Bible presents them. Watch Tower Society publications note that the only birthday celebrations explicitly mentioned in the Bible are those of an unnamed Pharaoh and Herod Antipas, and that both were associated with executions, and neither celebrant was a servant of God.[148] Though some religions interpret Job 1:4 to indicate birthday feasts of Job's sons, Jehovah's Witnesses interpret them as a circuit of feasts from one house to the next.[149] The Bible does not show Jesus or his apostles celebrating birthdays and The Watchtower claims the absence of any record of the date of the birth of Jesus or his apostles indicates that "God does not want us to celebrate any of these birthdays".[150]
Construction[edit]
International and regional building teams frequently undertake constructions of Kingdom Halls over the course of one or two weekends, termed "quick-builds". Larger construction projects, including building regional Assembly Halls and Bethel offices, factories, residences, warehouses, and farm facilities, are also performed almost entirely by volunteer members.[citation needed]
Humanitarian efforts[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses provide relief assistance in disaster-stricken areas for their members and others in the vicinity. Medicine and clothing were provided to both Hutu and Tutsi Witnesses during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.[151] Following Hurricane Katrina, they helped rebuild houses of Witnesses and others.[152] The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses uses "Regional Building Committees" to oversee relief efforts worldwide.[153]
Funding of activities[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses fund their activities, such as publishing, constructing and operating facilities, evangelism, and disaster relief via donations. There is no tithing or collection, but on exceptional occasions, members are reminded to donate to the organization; Witnesses typically provide an opportunity for members of the public to make donations as they encounter them in their preaching work. Donation boxes labeled for several purposes are located in Kingdom Halls and other meeting facilities. Generally there are contribution boxes for local operating expenses, a Kingdom Hall fund for helping Witnesses around the world to build Kingdom Halls, and a general fund for the "Worldwide Work", which includes the printing of literature, organization of conventions, supporting missionaries and disaster relief, and other operating expenses of the organization.[154][155]
The accounts (including donations) and the financial operation of the local congregation are reviewed monthly and posted on a congregation notice board. Donations are also accepted via mail, and the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society can be named as a beneficiary to an estate, and also accepts donations in the form of life insurance policies, pension plans, bank accounts, certificates of deposit, retirement accounts, stocks and bonds, real estate, annuities and trusts.[156]
References[edit]

Question book-new.svg
 This article relies on references to primary sources. Please add references to secondary or tertiary sources. (December 2011)
1.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106.
2.Jump up ^ Keep Yourselves in God’s Love, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2008, page 43, "The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses represents the slave class. ... elders today receive instructions and counsel from the Governing Body, either directly or through its representatives, such as traveling overseers."
3.Jump up ^ "Keep Clear of False Worship!". The Watchtower: 30. March 15, 2006. "[Jehovah's Witnesses] are “no part of the world.” (John 15:19) The term “world” here refers to human society alienated from God. (Ephesians 4:17-19; 1 John 5:19) We are separate from the world in that we shun attitudes, speech, and conduct that offend Jehovah. (1 John 2:15-17) Moreover, in harmony with the principle that “bad associations spoil useful habits,” we avoid intimacy with those who do not live by Christian standards. (1 Corinthians 15:33) To be no part of the world is to remain “without spot from the world.” (James 1:27) Hence, being separate from the world does not mean that we physically withdraw from all contact with other people."
4.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 7, 109–112.
5.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 26, 28.
6.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 90.
7.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 163.
8.Jump up ^ "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", The Watchtower, June 1, 1992, page 18.
9.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 66–68.
10.^ Jump up to: a b c d e f g h Holden 2002, pp. 64–69.
11.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Botting, Gary (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 85. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
12.Jump up ^ "What Do You Do with Your Time?", The Watchtower, February 1, 1950, page 38, "By setting and meeting the goal never to miss any of the meetings that the Lord provides for His people, the Christian is protected against becoming involved in the affairs of this world. He doesn’t have time for it!"
13.Jump up ^ "Exert Yourselves Vigorously!", The Watchtower, April 1, 1972, page 206, "They do much private Bible study, attend five weekly congregation meetings and spend much time each month in preaching the good news of God’s kingdom and making disciples of people, besides providing support for themselves and their families. ... Being busy serves as a protection from many of the temptations and snares of the world, the flesh and the Devil."
14.Jump up ^ "Benefit Fully From the Service Meetings", Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1989, page 7.
15.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 420.
16.Jump up ^ "Families, Praise God as Part of His Congregation". The Watchtower: 20. 1 July 1999.
17.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Botting, Gary (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 143. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
18.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses—Who Are They? What Do They Believe?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2000, page 15.
19.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 51.
20.Jump up ^ "Are You Benefiting Yourself?", Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2000, page 3.
21.Jump up ^ "New Congregation Meeting Schedule", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 2008, page 1
22.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2007, p. 8 How the Congregation Book Study Arrangement Helps Us
23.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 265.
24.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 392.
25.Jump up ^ "Jehovah is a God of Covenants", The Watchtower, February 1, 1998, page 8, "Jesus instituted the only annual religious observance commanded for Christians—the Memorial of his death."
26.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, p. 207, "Who should partake of these Memorial emblems? Logically, only those in the new covenant—that is, those who have the hope of going to heaven—should partake of the bread and the wine. God’s holy spirit convinces such ones that they have been selected to be heavenly kings."
27.Jump up ^ Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses 2012, p. 31
28.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, p. 207.
29.Jump up ^ "Discerning What We Are — At Memorial Time", The Watchtower, February 15, 1990, p. 16.
30.^ Jump up to: a b c d Holden 2002, pp. 71–76.
31.Jump up ^ Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 7, pages 864-5, "The fundamental obligation of each member of the sect is to give witness to Jehovah by announcing His approaching Kingdom. ... They regard the Bible as their only source of belief and rule of conduct ... To be a true Witness one must preach effectively in one way or another.”
32.^ Jump up to: a b Question Box, Our Kingdom Ministry, June 1990, page 8.
33.Jump up ^ "Paying Back Caesar’s Things to Caesar", The Watchtower, May 1, 1996, page 16.
34.Jump up ^ Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, page 4.
35.Jump up ^ "Help Your Children Progress in the Ministry". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. July 2005.
36.Jump up ^ "We Are Witnesses All the Time". Our Kingdom Ministry: 6. September 2011.
37.Jump up ^ "Can We Make April 2000 Our Best Month Ever?". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. March 2000. "If you are uncertain about your ability to meet the 70-hour requirement for regular pioneers, why not auxiliary pioneer in April and set 70 hours as your goal?"
38.Jump up ^ "Declare Abroad the Excellencies of Jehovah". Our Kingdom Ministry: 4. February 2007. "Meeting the auxiliary pioneer requirement of 50 hours may not be as difficult as you think."
39.Jump up ^ Determined to Follow God’s Way of Life The Watchtower January 15, 1999 p. 6
40.Jump up ^ "A Worthy Goal for the New Service Year". Our Kingdom Ministry: 5. August 2007. "Even if you feel that you are unable to auxiliary pioneer during this coming service year, you can still maintain the pioneer spirit. Continue to do all that you can in the ministry, confident that Jehovah is pleased with your whole-souled effort to give him your best. (Gal. 6:4) Be supportive, and encourage those who are able to auxiliary pioneer. Perhaps you can adjust your schedule to share in the ministry an additional day of the week with those who are pioneering."
41.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 259.
42.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 196–206.
43.Jump up ^ "Preaching in a Lawless World", The Watchtower, July 15, 1979, page 13, paragraph 4, "It is by our endurance in proclaiming “this good news of the kingdom” that we may attain to salvation"; cited in Penton 1997, p. 206.
44.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
45.Jump up ^ Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
46.Jump up ^ "Do You Contribute to an Accurate Report?", Our Kingdom Ministry, December 2002, page 8.
47.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 247.
48.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 201.
49.Jump up ^ JW-media.org
50.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, p. 3
51.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 78.
52.Jump up ^ Swaggart Ministries v. California Board of Equalization case summary, US Supreme Court Media
53.Jump up ^ Watch Tower brief, Jimmy Swaggart Ministries vs California Board of Equalization, US Supreme Court, 1988.
54.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 320.
55.Jump up ^ Organized To Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 62.
56.Jump up ^ "Let Your Advancement Be Manifest", Watchtower, August 1, 1992, page 10.
57.Jump up ^ "Look to Jehovah for Insight", Watchtower, March 15, 1989, page 14.
58.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 88.
59.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 231
60.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 92–93
61.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach chap. 18 pp. 175-176 pars. 4-5 Baptism and Your Relationship With God
62.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/89 p. 13 par. 18 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
63.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will
64.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach? . | chap. 18 p. 182 par. 21 “Baptism and Your Relationship With God”
65.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/15/03 p. 31 Questions From Readers
66.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/1/06 p. 22 ‘Go And Make Disciples, Baptizing them’
67.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/89 p. 13 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
68.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers", The Watchtower, November 1, 1951, page 671-672, "The authorities of the land generally call for some ceremony in connection with ordination for the ministry... The legal [opinion] is recognizing the two classifications made concerning ministers, namely, ordained ministers and regular unordained ministers. ...[A]n unbaptized one...may still point out to the court [or other authority] that he has not as yet undergone the ordination ceremony of water immersion, and for that reason may be classed by the law of the land as a regular minister rather than an ordained minister."
69.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1976, page 5-6,"Since at times a request is made by officials for some evidence of “ordination” on the part of those serving in such capacities, a “Certificate for Ordained Minister” has been prepared and will be supplied on request to those elders or ministerial servants needing it. It will show the date, not of their baptism, but when they were appointed to serve in such capacities... But what of those who are engaged in full-time service as pioneers or members of Bethel families? ...Such appointment, however, does not fit the meaning of “ordination” as that term is generally understood [by non-Witnesses requesting these certificates]. ...Since the Bible itself sets out only the two congregational positions of responsibility, that of elders and of ministerial servants, we limit our application of the term “ordained minister” [as used by non-Witness authorities] to those in this Scriptural arrangement.[emphasis added]"
70.Jump up ^ "Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 18
71.Jump up ^ "The General Priesthood Today", The Watchtower, March 1, 1963, page 143
72.Jump up ^ "Head Coverings—When and Why?", Keep Yourselves in God's Love, ©2008 Watch Tower, pages 43-44 and 209-212
73.Jump up ^ "Women—May They Be “Ministers”?", The Watchtower, March 15, 1981, page 19, "Several courts in the United States have recognized female Jehovah’s Witnesses, in carrying on the door-to-door evangelistic work, as ministers. For example, the Supreme Court of Vermont, in Vermont v. Greaves (1941), stated that Elva Greaves “is an ordained minister of a sect or class known and designated as ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’.”"
74.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/15/87 p. 13.
75.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/1/95 p. 30 par. 3
76.Jump up ^ Pay Attention To Yourself and All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1991, page 94, "Apostasy is a standing away from, a falling away, defection, rebellion, abandonment; it involves teaching false doctrines, supporting or promoting false religion and its holidays or interfaith activities ... Persons who deliberately spread (stubbornly hold to and speak about) teachings contrary to Bible truth as taught by Jehovah's Witnesses are apostates."
77.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures p. 34 Apostasy "Others claim to believe the Bible but reject Jehovah’s organization."
78.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/1/86 p. 31.
79.Jump up ^ To All Circuit and District Overseers, September 1, 1980, "Keep in mind that to be disfellowshipped, an apostate does not have to be a promoter of apostate views. ... if a baptized Christian abandons the teachings of Jehovah, as presented by the faithful and discreet slave, and persists in believing other doctrine despite Scriptural reproof, then he is apostatizing. ... [If] he continues to believe the apostate ideas and rejects what he has been provided through the 'slave class,' then appropriate judicial action should be taken. ... [If] something reasonably substantial comes to the attention of the elders along this line, it would be appropriate to make a kindly, discreet inquiry so as to protect the flock." Letter reproduced in Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz, 1983, chapter 11.
80.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock - pgs. 121-122
81.Jump up ^ The Watchtower April 15, 1988 Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit Pgs. 26-31.
82.Jump up ^ “Helping Minors to Worship God”, Awake! 11/15, 1988, p. 20.
83.Jump up ^ "Thus, it would be left to members of the family to decide on the extent to which the disfellowshipped family member would be included when eating or engaging in other household activities. And yet, they would not want to give brothers with whom they associate the impression that everything is the same as it was before the disfellowshipping occurred." Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is Disfellowshipped, p 4. Scan available at JWfiles.com accessed January 27, 2006.
84.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, p. 26., "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum."
85.Jump up ^ "Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit", The Watchtower April 15, 1988, p. 26.
86.Jump up ^ “Questions From Readers”, The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30-31.
87.Jump up ^ “Repentance Leading Back to God”, The Watchtower, September 1, 1981, p. 27 par. 30.
88.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1975, p. 4.
89.Jump up ^ "Reproofs Are the Way of Life", The Watchtower, November 15, 1977 p. 691.
90.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
91.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 15, 1999, p. 30
92.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1985, p. 31.
93.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1984 p. 31.
94.Jump up ^ The Bible's Viewpoint What Does It Mean to Be the Head of the House?, Awake! 2004b, July 8, 2004, p. 26.
95.Jump up ^ The Secret of Family Happiness, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, pp. 160-161.
96.Jump up ^ "Are You Faithful in All Things?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2005, page 26-30.
97.Jump up ^ "Abortion", Reasoning from the Scriptures, page 25-26.
98.Jump up ^ "Young People Ask... What's Wrong With Premarital Sex?", Awake!, July 22, 2004, pages 12-14.
99.Jump up ^ "What Is God’s View of Smoking?", The Watchtower, June 1, 2014, page 4. The footnote reads: "Smoking here refers to inhaling tobacco smoke directly from cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or water pipes. However, the principles discussed apply equally to the use of chewing tobacco, snuff, electronic cigarettes that contain nicotine, and other products."
100.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993,p. 180.
101.Jump up ^ “You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy”, The Watchtower, February 15, 1976, p. 123 par. 16.
102.Jump up ^ “When Another’s Conscience Is Involved”, Awake! April 22, 1979, pp. 27-28
103.Jump up ^ "Does the Bible Condemn Gambling?", The Watchtower, March 1, 2011, pages 12-14.
104.Jump up ^ "Is It Wise to Invest in the Stock Market?", Awake!, October 8, 2000, pages 25-27.
105.Jump up ^ Watchtower.org
106.Jump up ^ Watchtower.org
107.Jump up ^ Lee Elder, The Associated Jehovah's Witnesses for Reform on Blood, "Why some Jehovah's Witnesses accept blood and conscientiously reject official Watchtower Society blood policy", Journal of Medical Ethics, 2000, Vol 26, pages 375-380.
108.Jump up ^ "Flocking Together in Battle Line", The Watchtower, March 1, 1983, page 17.
109.Jump up ^ "Fight the fine Fight of faith", The Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 26–27.
110.Jump up ^ "Waging the Right Warfare", The Watchtower, June 15, 1956, page 365.
111.Jump up ^ "Use theocratic war strategy", The Watchtower, May 1, 1957, page 285,286.
112.Jump up ^ "Questions from readers", The Watchtower, June 1, 1960, pages 351-352.
113.Jump up ^ "Christians live the truth", The Watchtower, October 1, 1954, page 597.
114.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 244-245.
115.Jump up ^ Examining the Scriptures Daily", May 18, 2011, "Does being truthful with others mean that we must disclose every detail to whoever asks us a question? Not necessarily ... Jehovah's people need to be on guard against apostates and other wicked men who use trickery or cunning for selfish purposes."
116.Jump up ^ "Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves", The Watchtower, February 1, 1956, page 86.
117.Jump up ^ Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 435-436.
118.Jump up ^ "Live a Balanced, Simple Life", The Watchtower, July 15, 1989, page 11.
119.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 12.
120.Jump up ^ What Does God Require?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, page 13.
121.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, November 1, 1999, p. 28, "As to whether they will personally vote for someone running in an election, each one of Jehovah’s Witnesses makes a decision based on his Bible-trained conscience and an understanding of his responsibility to God and to the State.
122.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock, page 140.
123.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 188)
124.Jump up ^ Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 269-270.
125.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, p. 159.
126.Jump up ^ Watch Tower Press Release, October 4, 2007
127.Jump up ^ Education, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, pp. 20-23
128.^ Jump up to: a b Franz 2007, p. 409.
129.Jump up ^ "Train With Godly Devotion as Your Aim", Watchtower, August 15, 1985, page 19.
130.Jump up ^ "Have a Full Share in the Great Spiritual Harvest", The Watchtower, July 15, 2010, page 19, "Do you avoid unnecessary fellowship with schoolmates and fellow workers who do not share your beliefs? ... Your faithful compliance in such matters will bring excellent results."
131.Jump up ^ Survival Into a New Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1984, page 168.
132.Jump up ^ "Each One Will Carry His Own Load", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 23.
133.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 109–112.
134.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 69.
135.Jump up ^ "Keep Clear of False Worship!", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 30, "Should we hold ourselves completely aloof from those who do not share our faith? The answer is no. The second of the two greatest commandments states: 'You must love your neighbor as yourself.' We certainly display love for our neighbors when we share with them the good news of the Kingdom."
136.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 123.
137.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-state relations: Accounting for the differing trajectories of Seventh-Day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, Winter 1995, "The urgency of the Witness's apocalyptic has changed very little over time. The intellectual isolation of the Witness leaders has allowed them to retain their traditional position, and it is they who continue to be the chief purveyors of the radical eschatology ....This commitment (to principle) was bolstered by their organizational isolation, intense indoctrination of adherents, rigid internal discipline, and considerable persecution."
138.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/69 p. 58 Christian Weddings Should Reflect Reasonableness "Of course, some customs are unscriptural and so they are objectionable to Christians. ... Other customs are plainly acts of false worship. So one planning a wedding does well to examine practices common in his area and analyze how people view them locally."
139.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 7/15/98 p. 24 A Christian View of Funeral Customs "Funeral customs do not always conflict with Bible principles. When they do, Christians are determined to act in harmony with the Scriptures."
140.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 1/15/72 p. 63 "It is thus seen that the precise origin of the wedding ring is uncertain. Even if it were a fact that pagans first used wedding rings, would that rule such out for Christians? Not necessarily."
141.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 1, 1971, p. 735.
142.Jump up ^ "Christmas Customs—Are They Christian", The Watchtower, December 15, 2000, page 3-7, Online
143.Jump up ^ Awake! 7/8/04 p. 30 "Christians refrain from any celebrations or customs that continue to involve false religious beliefs or activities that violate Bible principles. For example, the Bible definitely puts birthday celebrations in a bad light"
144.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998, p. 30.
145.Jump up ^ “They Are No Part of the World”, Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, page 199, "Jehovah’s Witnesses have good times with their families and friends. But they do not participate in holidays and celebrations that are linked with pagan gods (as is true of such holidays as Easter, New Year’s Day, May Day, and Mother’s Day)."
146.Jump up ^ Vindication, J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1931, pages 158-159.
147.Jump up ^ "What Is the Bible’s View? Are They Harmless Observances?", Awake!, February 8, 1974, Page 27.
148.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998. pp. 30-31.
149.Jump up ^ Job 1:4 reads "And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them." (King James version)
150.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, November 15, 1960, p. 704.
151.Jump up ^ "Christianity in Action: Amid Turmoil", The Watchtower, January 15, 1998.
152.Jump up ^ Awake!, June 2006, page 19, "Heeding the Warnings Made a Difference"
153.Jump up ^ Awake!, June 2006, p.19.
154.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, December 2003, p. 7
155.Jump up ^ “A New Program for Kingdom Hall Construction”, Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, September 1983, p. 4-5.
156.Jump up ^ "Ways in Which Some Choose to Give Contributions to the Worldwide Work", The Watchtower, November 1, 2006, page 20
Bibliography[edit]
Franz, Raymond (2002). Crisis of Conscience (4th ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-24-9.
Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom (2nd ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-17-6.
Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
Penton, James M. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
External links[edit]
Official Website
 



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Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
The beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the Bible teachings of Charles Taze Russell—founder of the Bible Student movement—and successive presidents of the Watch Tower Society, Joseph Franklin Rutherford and Nathan Homer Knorr.[1][2][3] Since 1976 all doctrinal decisions have been made by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses,[4] a group of elders at the religion's Brooklyn headquarters. These teachings are disseminated through The Watchtower magazine and other publications of Jehovah's Witnesses, and at conventions and congregation meetings.[5]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach that the present age of human existence is about to be terminated with the direct intervention of God, who will use Jesus Christ to fully establish his heavenly government over earth, destroying existing human governments and non-Witnesses,[6][7][8] and creating a cleansed society of true worshippers. They see their mission as primarily evangelical (disseminating "good news"), to warn as many people as possible in the remaining time before Armageddon.[9][10] All members of the religion are expected to take an active part in preaching.[11] Witnesses refer to all their beliefs collectively as "the Truth".[12]



Contents  [hide]
1 Source of doctrines
2 Organization
3 Restorationism
4 Bible
5 God
6 Jesus Christ
7 Cross
8 Satan
9 God's Messianic Kingdom
10 Death
11 Salvation 11.1 144,000 anointed
11.2 Other sheep
12 Eschatology
13 Defection
14 Apostasy
15 Education
16 References
17 Bibliography
18 External links

Source of doctrines[edit]
See also: Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
Doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses are established by their Governing Body. Until late 2012, the Governing Body described itself as the representative[13][14] and "spokesman" for God's "faithful and discreet slave class"[14][15][16][17] (the approximately 10,000 "anointed" Jehovah's Witnesses), which Witnesses were taught Christ used as a channel for God's progressive revelations and to direct Christians on biblical matters.[18][19][20] The Governing Body seeks neither advice nor approval from any "anointed" Witnesses other than high-ranking members at the Brooklyn headquarters.[15][21][22] At the 2012 Annual Meeting of the Watch Tower Society, the "faithful and discreet slave" was defined as referring to the Governing Body only.[23]
Jehovah's Witnesses are instructed to welcome changes to their religion's doctrine, regarding such "adjustments" as "new light" or "new understanding" from God.[24][25] The view is based on their interpretation of Proverbs 4:18, which they believe refers to a continuous progressive advancement in doctrinal knowledge and scriptural understanding for "righteous ones",[26][27] with the holy spirit helping "responsible representatives of 'the faithful and discreet slave' at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood".[28] Watch Tower literature has suggested such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study,[29] the guidance of holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels,[30] however, the Governing Body also disclaims infallibility and divine inspiration.[31][32][33] The religion makes no provision for members to criticize or contribute to official teachings[34] and all Witnesses are expected to abide by the doctrines and organizational requirements as determined by the Governing Body.[35] Watch Tower Society publications strongly discourage Witnesses from formulating doctrines and "private ideas" reached through independent Bible research.[36][37][38][39] Members who promote privately developed teachings contrary to those of the Governing Body may be expelled and shunned.[36][40][41]
Organization[edit]
See also: Organizational structure of Jehovah's Witnesses



 Organizational headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that God uses an organization both in heaven and on earth, and that Jehovah's Witnesses, under the direction of their Governing Body, are the only visible channel by which God communicates with humanity.[42][43] The organization is said to be theocratic, "ruled from the divine Top down, and not from the rank and file up".[44] Witnesses teach that people must choose between God’s organization and Satan’s.[45][46] Watch Tower publications teach that the Bible is an "organizational book" that does not belong to individuals and that the Bible cannot be properly understood without guidance by "Jehovah's visible organization".[47]
Witnesses undergoing baptism are required to publicly confirm that they are associating themselves "with God's spirit-directed organization",[48] thereby submitting themselves to its direction and judicial system.[49] Watch Tower Society publications urge Witnesses to demonstrate loyalty to the organization without dissent,[50][51] even at the cost of family ties.[52] Loyalty to the organization is said to require full involvement in public preaching[53] and regular meeting attendance.[54]
Disagreement with the Watch Tower Society's concept of God's organization figured prominently in events that led to a 1980 purge of high-level members at the religion's Brooklyn headquarters. A summary by a Governing Body committee of "wrong teachings" being promoted as "new understandings" included the suggestion that God did not have an organization on earth.[55] Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz, who was expelled as part of the purge, subsequently criticized the Watch Tower concept of organization,[56] claiming the concept—which posits that God does not deal with individuals apart from an organization—has no scriptural support and serves only to reinforce the religion's authority structure, with its strong emphasis on human authority.[57] He also claimed that The Watchtower has repeatedly blurred discussions of both Jesus Christ's loyalty to God and the apostles' loyalty to Christ to promote the view that Witnesses should be loyal to the Watch Tower Society.[58] Sociologist Andrew Holden has observed that Witnesses see no distinction between loyalty to Jehovah and to the movement itself,[59] and other researchers have claimed that challenging the views of those higher up the hierarchical ladder is regarded as tantamount to challenging God himself.[60]
Restorationism[edit]
See also: History of Jehovah's Witnesses and Restorationism (Christian primitivism)
Witnesses believe that after the death of the apostles, the Church embarked on a "Great Apostasy", diverging from the original teachings of Jesus on several major points. Influenced by Restorationism in the 19th century, Charles Taze Russell and his associates formed a Bible study group in the 1870s in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, developing teachings that they considered to be a revival of "the great truths taught by Jesus and the Apostles".[61] Watch Tower publications claim both the Great Apostasy and Russell's subsequent "restoration" of original Christianity[62] were a fulfilment of Jesus' parable of the wheat and the weeds at Matthew 13:24-30,36-43.[63] Although many of their eschatological teachings have changed over the years,[64] Jehovah's Witnesses have consistently claimed to be the only true religion.[65] Based on their interpretation of Revelation 18:2-24, Jehovah's Witnesses believe all other religions are part of "Babylon the Great", a "world empire of false religion" under the control of Satan; consequently, they refuse all ecumenical relations with other religious denominations.[66][67]
Bible[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses prefer to use the New World Translation of the Bible
See also: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures
The entire Protestant canon of scripture is seen as the inspired, inerrant word of God.[68] Jehovah's Witnesses consider the Bible to be scientifically and historically accurate and reliable[69] and interpret much of it literally, while also accepting it contains much symbolism.[70] Jehovah's Witnesses base all of their beliefs on the Bible, as interpreted by the Governing Body.[71]
They use the terms Hebrew and Christian Greek Scriptures rather than Old and New Testament to avoid implication that the Old Testament is outdated or inferior.[72] They believe that the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) contain prophecy that was fulfilled in Jesus Christ,[73] and that the books of the Christian Greek Scriptures (New Testament) are primarily directed to the 144,000 chosen by God for life in heaven.[74] The Watch Tower Society's New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures—the main translation used by Jehovah's Witnesses—renders the name of God as Jehovah, rather than God or LORD as found in English translations such as the King James Version.
God[edit]
Main article: God in Abrahamic religions
See also: Jehovah and Nontrinitarianism
Jehovah's Witnesses believe God is the Creator and Supreme Being. Witnesses reject the Trinity doctrine, which they consider unscriptural.[75] They view God as the Father, an invisible spirit "person" separate from the Son, Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is described as God's "active force", rather than the third part of the Trinity.[76] They believe God, whose personal name is Jehovah, is "infinite, but approachable"; he is not omnipresent, but has a location in heaven;[77][78] it is possible to have a personal relationship with him as a friend;[79] he is kind and merciful, and would not eternally "torture" wicked people.[80] Being respectful of the principle of free will, he does not force his sovereignty on people, choosing to save only those who want to serve him, even though the course of mankind in general may lead them to harm.[81]
Witnesses teach that God must be distinguished by his personal name—Jehovah. The name is a common modern Latinized form of the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, or four-letter name, transliterated as YHWH.[82] The use of his personal name is regarded as vital for true worship,[83] and Witnesses usually preface the term God with the name Jehovah.[84] The title, LORD (Greek: Kyrios), is rarely used by Witnesses when speaking about God.[84] Because no other religion uses the name Jehovah with the same prevalence, they believe only their religion is making God's name known.[85]
Jesus Christ[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus is God's "only-begotten Son", and that his life began in heaven.[86] He is described as God's first creation and the "exact representation of God",[87] but is believed to be a separate entity and not part of a Trinity. Jesus is said to have been used by God in the creation of all other things.[88] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the Archangel, Michael, "the Word" of John 1:1, and wisdom personified in Proverbs 8 refer to Jesus in his pre-human existence and that he resumed these identities after his ascension to heaven following his death and resurrection. They also identify him with the "rider of the white horse" at Revelation 6 and 19.[89] His birth on earth was accomplished when he willingly allowed himself to be transferred, by God, from heaven to the womb of the virgin, Mary.[90] While on earth, Jesus was executed as a sacrifice to atone for mankind's sins, becoming the "eternal father" to the human family.[91]
They believe that after his death, Jesus appeared to his disciples, convinced them of his resurrection, and then ascended into heaven to sit at Jehovah's right hand until he would become the promised king of God's heavenly kingdom. Jesus acts as the mediator of a "new covenant"[92] referred to in Jeremiah 31:31, Luke 22:20, and Hebrews 9:15; 12:24, directly mediating only for those going to heaven (the 144,000). Those with an earthly hope are said to be beneficiaries of that covenant.[93][94][95] Even as king of God's kingdom, Jesus remains subordinate to God.[96] Witnesses reject the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary, who they believe bore more children after Jesus.[97]
Cross[edit]
See also: Dispute about Jesus' execution method
The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society used the Cross and Crown symbol on tombstones, and on its publications until 1931.[98][99] Since 1936, Jehovah's Witnesses have rejected the idea that Jesus died on a cross, and instead teach that he died on a single wooden stake (crux simplex), asserting that the Koiné Greek word σταυρος (stauros) refers to a single upright post. They consider the cross to be of pagan origins and an object of idol worship.[100] Some Jehovah's Witnesses have been persecuted or killed for not bowing down to or kissing a cross.[101][102]
Satan[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan was originally a perfect angel who developed feelings of self-importance and craved worship that belonged to God. Satan persuaded Adam and Eve to obey him rather than God, raising the issue—often referred to as a "controversy"—of whether people, having been granted free will, would obey God under both temptation and persecution. The issue is said to be whether God can rightfully claim to be sovereign of the universe.[103][104] Instead of destroying Satan, God decided to test the loyalty of the rest of humankind and to prove to the rest of creation that Satan was a liar.[75][105] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan is God's chief adversary[105] and the invisible ruler of the world.[103][104] They believe that demons were originally angels who rebelled against God and took Satan's side in the controversy.[106]
Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe that Satan lives in Hell or that he has been given responsibility to punish the wicked. Satan and his demons are said to have been cast down from heaven to the earth in 1914, marking the beginning of the "last days".[103][107] Witnesses believe that Satan and his demons influence individuals, organisations and nations, and that they are the cause of human suffering. At Armageddon, Satan is to be bound for 1,000 years, and then given a brief opportunity to mislead perfect humanity before being destroyed.[108]
Writers including James Beckford and former members James Penton and Barbara Grizzuti Harrison have stated that Jehovah's Witnesses' have a fear of demons, which Penton says is "sometimes so extreme that it becomes quite superstitious". But Penton also notes that avoidance of "demonistic practices" has released many people in Africa and Latin America from fear of spirits.[109][110][111][112] Watch Tower Society publications state that Witnesses need not harbor dread or superstitious fear of demons, because their power over humans is limited.[113][114]
God's Messianic Kingdom[edit]
Publications of Jehovah's Witnesses teach that God's kingdom is a literal government in heaven, established in 1914,[115] ruled by Jesus Christ and 144,000 humans raised to heaven.[116] The kingdom is viewed as the means by which God will accomplish his original purpose for the earth,[117][118] bringing about a world free of crime, sickness, death and poverty, and ultimately transforming the earth into a paradise.[119] The kingdom is said to have been the focus of Jesus' ministry.[120]
Death[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses believe the soul is mortal, with a hope of resurrection
Witnesses regard the soul as mortal, based on the statement at Ezekiel 18:4 that "the soul that sins, it shall die" (MKJV)[121] and thus believe the soul does not continue to live after one dies.[122] Death is considered a state of non-existence, based on their understanding of Ecclesiastes 9:5, "For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all." Witnesses believe that the only hope for life after death is in the resurrection, which they say involves re-creation by God of the same individual with a new body.[123] They believe that 144,000 people will be resurrected to life as spirit creatures in heaven to be priestly rulers under Christ, but the vast majority, to physical life on earth.[124]
Watch Tower publications teach that hell (hades or sheol) is not a place of fiery torment, but rather the "common grave of mankind", a place of unconscious non-existence.[125] Gehenna, the Bible word commonly translated "hellfire", is said to describe a judgment of complete destruction,[126] from which resurrection is not possible.[127] They reason that complete destruction does not allow for literal "torture" of the wicked, as the deceased person is not conscious.[128] Based on this, they believe that parables such as that of "the rich man and Lazarus" should not be interpreted literally, and that such references are speaking of symbolic death, not the physical death of actual individuals.[129]
Witnesses teach that wicked angels (demons) sometimes pretend to be spirits of the dead, and that their deception is the basis for many beliefs about ghosts.[130][131]
Salvation[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
Jehovah's Witnesses' believe that faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice is essential for salvation. They reject the concept of universal salvation[132] and the concept of predestination. They believe that all intelligent creatures are endowed with free will, and that salvation is dependent on God's "undeserved kindness", but also requires faith in God and in the "ransom sacrifice" of Jesus Christ,[133] demonstrated by "zealous" preaching activity.[134][135][136] According to Watch Tower Society theology, salvation requires Christ's mediation as part of God's purpose to grant humans everlasting life, either in heaven (for 144,000 "anointed" Christians, or the "little flock") or on earth (for the "other sheep", the remainder of faithful humanity).[137] For anointed Witnesses, salvation is said to be achieved through their death and subsequent resurrection to heavenly life to share with Christ as a co-ruler of God's kingdom;[138] for others, it is gained through preservation during the battle of Armageddon.[139][140] Watch Tower Society publications state that salvation at Armageddon is also contingent on baptism, accurate knowledge of Bible truth, adherence to God's standards of conduct and morality, use of the divine name "Jehovah" in worship,[141] membership of God's "organization",[6] and active support of anointed Christians.[142]
144,000 anointed[edit]
Based on a literal interpretation of scriptures such as Revelation 14:1–4, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that exactly 144,000 faithful Christians go to heaven as spirit creatures to rule with Christ in the kingdom of God. They believe that most of those are already in heaven, and that the "remnant" at Revelation 12:17 (KJV) refers to those remaining alive on earth who will be immediately resurrected to heaven when they die. The Witnesses understand Jesus’ words at John 3:3—"except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God"—to apply to the 144,000 who are "born again" as "anointed" sons of God in heaven.[143] They associate the terms "Israel of God" (Galatians 6:16), "little flock" (Luke 12:32), and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" (Revelation 21:9) in the New Testament with the "anointed".[144][145]
Members who claim to be anointed are not given special treatment by other congregation members.[146] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that being "anointed" involves a personal revelation by God's spirit which "gives positive assurance of adoption" to the individual alone.[147] Only those claiming to be anointed partake of the unleavened bread and wine at the yearly commemoration of Christ's death, or Memorial. According to The Watchtower, "the Governing Body does not keep a list of all partakers, for it does not maintain a global network of anointed ones."[21]
Other sheep[edit]
Watch Tower Society literature states that Jesus' use of the term "other sheep" at John 10:16 indicates a separate class with an earthly hope.[148] Those of the "other sheep" who die faithful to God will receive the "resurrection of the righteous" ("just" KJV) mentioned at Acts 24:15.[149] Those who die without faithfully serving God will receive the "resurrection of the ... unrighteous" ("unjust" KJV). They will be given the opportunity to join Jesus' "other sheep" and live forever on a paradise earth.[150][151] Those destroyed at Armageddon and other specific judgments by God are not resurrected.[152] Those of the "other sheep" who survive Armageddon without needing a resurrection, are referred to as the "great crowd".[153]
Eschatology[edit]
Main article: Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jesus Christ began to rule in heaven invisibly as king in October 1914.[154] They assert that the Greek word parousia (translated in most English Bible translations as coming when referring to Christ) is more accurately rendered presence, perceived only by a composite "sign".[155] As such, the Second Coming is considered an invisible presence, lasting for an extended period of time, and ending with Jesus' "coming" to separate the Sheep and the Goats.[156][157] They believe that when Jesus became king, Satan was ousted from heaven to the earth, bringing a period of "woe" to mankind.[158]
Witnesses base their beliefs about the significance of 1914 on the Watch Tower Society's interpretation of biblical chronology,[159] based on their belief that the destruction of Jerusalem and the beginning of the Babylonian captivity both occurred in 607 BCE. (The secularly accepted date for the fall of Jerusalem is within a year of 587 BCE; exiles were taken in various years, with most Jews exiled to Babylon following the siege of Jerusalem of 597 BCE.) They believe that Daniel chapter 4 prophesied a period of 2,520 years starting with 607 BCE and ending at 1914 CE.[160][161] They equate this period with the "Gentile Times" or "the appointed times of the nations", a phrase taken from Luke 21:24. They believe that when the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, the line of kings descended from David was interrupted, and that God's throne was "trampled on" from then until Jesus began ruling in October 1914.[162] Witnesses believe their doctrine is confirmed by world events since 1914, including wars, famine, earthquakes and increasing lawlessness, which they see as fulfillment of the "sign" of Christ's presence.[163][164] They believe that their preaching is also part of that sign, citing Matthew 24:14.[165][166][167] Witnesses teach that in 1918, Jesus resurrected those of the 144,000 (the "anointed") who had already died to heavenly life; since 1918, any "anointed" are individually resurrected to heavenly life at the time of their death to serve as kings alongside Christ in his heavenly government.[168]
The current world era, or "system of things", is considered to be in its "last days",[169] facing imminent destruction through intervention by God and Jesus Christ, leading to deliverance for those who worship God acceptably. This judgment will begin with the destruction by the United Nations of false religion, which they identify as "Babylon the Great", or the "harlot", of Revelation 17.[170] This will mark the beginning of the great tribulation.[171] Satan will subsequently attack Jehovah's Witnesses, an action that will prompt God to begin the war of Armageddon, during which all forms of government and all people not counted as Christ's "sheep", or true followers, will be destroyed.[172] The Society's publications make no explicit claim about whether small children or the mentally ill will survive, but say God's judgment will be righteous and merciful.[173] After Armageddon, Satan will be abyssed and unable to influence humanity, then God will extend his heavenly kingdom to include earth,[174][175] which will be transformed into a paradise similar to the Garden of Eden.[176]
Most of those who had died prior to God's intervention will gradually be resurrected to a "day of judgment" lasting for the thousand years referred to in Revelation 20.[177][178] This judgment will be based on their actions after resurrection rather than past deeds.[179] At the end of the thousand years a final test will take place when Satan is released to mislead perfect mankind;[180] Satan and any who fail the test will be destroyed, leaving a fully tested, perfect human race who will live forever.[178][181] Christ will then hand all authority back to God.[182]
Defection[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications assert that members of the religion are not compelled to remain part of the congregation.[183] However, Jehovah's Witness doctrines provide no method for baptized members to leave the religion on good terms.[184] Those who choose to depart and announce their decision to terminate their membership are regarded as abandoning God's organization and protection and voluntarily entering the world of Satan,[184][185] becoming part of the antichrist.[186] Watch Tower publications define such individuals as being "more reprehensible than those in the world"[186] and direct that they are to be shunned by other Witnesses, including close relatives, with no social or religious contact and no greeting given.[183][185] Sociologist Andrew Holden claims his research indicated many Witnesses who would otherwise defect because of disillusionment with the organization and its teachings remain affiliated out of fear of being shunned and losing contact with friends and family members.[184]
Apostasy[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications define apostasy as the abandonment of the worship and service of God by members of the Christian congregation, and equate it with rebellion against God.[187] Apostate behavior is said to include the rejection of biblical teachings or requirements, the rejection of Jehovah’s organization, association with or support for another religion[186] and celebration of religious holidays.[188] It is grounds for expulsion from the religion and subsequent shunning. Promotion of personal doctrinal views that deviate from official teachings is also regarded as apostasy. The "identifying marks" of apostates are said to include attempts to gain followers, disregard for the Witnesses’ preaching activity, rejection of God's visible organization, public criticism of other Witnesses and attempts to hinder their work.[187] Other identifying behavior is said to include deviation from the truth, twisted, empty speech, hypocrisy and involvement in deeper forms of ungodliness.[189] Watch Tower Society literature says apostates are motivated by vitriolic bitterness and that their writings are poisonous, distorted and false, display the characteristics of "cunning, contrived error, prideful intelligence, lack of love and dishonesty" and are designed to undermine the faith of Jehovah’s Witnesses.[190] Apostates are described as proud, independent, ungrateful and presumptuous,[189] mentally diseased,[191][192] displaying jealousy, fits of anger and other unchristian conduct and are said to often fall victim to drunken bouts, loose conduct and fornication.[189]
Witnesses who are defined as apostates are said to have become part of the antichrist and are regarded as more reprehensible than non-Witnesses.[186] They are described as "anti-God" and doomed to destruction.[193] Witnesses are told they must loathe and hate in the "biblical sense of the word" those who are defined as apostates and show no curiosity about their ideas.[194] Apostates must be shunned and Witnesses are warned that those who greet one become "a sharer in his wicked works".[186]
Education[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses are directed to study the Bible using Watch Tower Society publications
Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to make their preaching work the top priority in their life. Higher education is discouraged,[195][196] based on their belief that it is futile to plan for secular advancement in a world that faces imminent destruction, as well as fears about succumbing to "worldly thinking" and concerns that advanced education might lead to a lack of humility or involvement in immorality.[197][198][199] Because evangelistic activities take priority over educational success, young Witnesses rarely progress to college or university,[200] which Holden cites as a source of regret in subsequent years among those who are raised in the organization and later choose to leave.[200] Watch Tower Society publications advise parents to recommend alternatives to university education for their children, suggesting associate degrees from community or technical colleges or short courses in subjects such as office administration, automotive repair, computing, or hairdressing. They urge young Witnesses to pursue higher education only to gain skills to obtain a reasonable living while maintaining flexibility to pursue their "true" vocation, serving God.[201] Author James Penton's major study of the Witnesses, Apocalypse Delayed, noted that of those Witnesses who do progress to university, few are likely to take studies in such areas as the humanities and the social sciences, "disciplines that are most threatening to the Witness world-view".[202]
Jehovah's Witnesses provide standardized religious training programs for their members, focusing on improving skills for their ministry. These include the congregational Theocratic Ministry School, literacy classes, Pioneer Service School, Bible School for Single Brothers and Gilead School. Some of these programs are by invitation only.[203] Holden observed: "Despite the fact that Witnesses claim to reason from the scriptures, their theology is taught in a highly mechanistic fashion, and written publications encourage the members to learn almost by rote."[204]
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 13.
2.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106.
3.Jump up ^ "5". Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. p. 42.
4.Jump up ^ "United in Love—Annual Meeting Report". The Watchtower: 3. 15 June 2010. "In 1976, all activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses were brought under the supervision of the six committees of the Governing Body."
5.Jump up ^ Keep Yourselves in God’s Love, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2008, page 43, "The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses represents the slave class. ... elders today receive instructions and counsel from the Governing Body, either directly or through its representatives, such as traveling overseers."
6.^ Jump up to: a b "Remaining Organized for Survival Into the Millennium", The Watchtower, September 1, 1989, page 19, "Only Jehovah's Witnesses, those of the anointed remnant and the 'great crowd,' as a united organization under the protection of the Supreme Organizer, have any Scriptural hope of surviving the impending end of this doomed system dominated by Satan the Devil."
7.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 179.
8.Jump up ^ Garbe, Detlef (2008). Between Resistance and Martyrdom: Jehovah's Witnesses in the Third Reich. University of Wisconsin Press. pp. 37, 38. ISBN 0-299-20794-3. "In their opinion, only people who have accepted Jehovah and subsequently submit to his requirements will survive Armageddon and enter into the New World ... Jehovah's Witnesses also believe that a person confessing to worship God has to be associated with the true Christian denomination. Since they claim to be the only true religious denomination, they also claim to have the only means for salvation."
9.Jump up ^ "All True Christians Are Evangelizers", The Watchtower, January 1, 2002, pages 11-12, "Proselytize or Evangelize? The Greek language has the word pro·se’ly·tos, which means a “convert.” From this has come the English word “proselytism,” which basically means “the act of making converts.” Nowadays, some say that proselytism is harmful. ... Pressuring people to change their religion is wrong. Certainly, Jehovah’s Witnesses do not act in such a way. Hence, they do not proselytize in the modern meaning of the word. Rather ... they preach the good news to everyone. Any who respond voluntarily are invited to take in more knowledge by means of a Bible study."
10.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 7.
11.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 71–76. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
12.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 71.
13.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29
14.^ Jump up to: a b "Seek God's guidance in all things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 11.
15.^ Jump up to: a b "The faithful steward and its governing body", The Watchtower, June 15, 2009, page 20.
16.Jump up ^ "How the Governing Body Is Organized", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, p. 29.
17.Jump up ^ You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. Watchtower Society. 1989. p. 195.
18.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 16.
19.Jump up ^ "Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation", Watchtower, June 15, 1964, p. 365, "The abundance of spiritual food and the amazing details of Jehovah’s purposes that have been revealed to Jehovah’s anointed witnesses are clear evidence that they are the ones mentioned by Jesus when he foretold a 'faithful and discreet slave' class that would be used to dispense God’s progressive revelations in these last days...How thankful we should be for the provision God has made of this slave class, the modern spiritual remnant, as they faithfully dispense the revealed truths of Jehovah! ...Jehovah’s faithful witnesses have been progressively brought to an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes, which are clearer now than ever before in history."
20.Jump up ^ Watchtower August 1, 2001 p. 14 paragraph 8, "A mature Christian...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.'"
21.^ Jump up to: a b "Question From Readers", "The Watchtower", August 15, 2011, page 22
22.Jump up ^ Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. pp. 152–164. ISBN 0-914675-16-8.
23.Jump up ^ "Annual Meeting Report".
24.Jump up ^ Osamu Muramoto, "Bioethics of the Refusal of Blood by Jehovah's Witnesses, Part 1", Journal of Medical Ethics, August 1998, Vol 24, Issue 4, pp. 223-230.
25.Jump up ^ "The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter", The Watchtower, December 1, 1981, pp. 26-31.
26.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 132–133.
27.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 165–171.
28.Jump up ^ "The Spirit Searches into the Deep Things of God", The Watchtower, July 15, 2010, p. 23, "When the time comes to clarify a spiritual matter in our day, holy spirit helps responsible representatives of 'the faithful and discreet slave' at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood. The Governing Body as a whole considers adjusted explanations. What they learn, they publish for the benefit of all."
29.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 165.
30.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherdford, Preparation, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1933, page 64, 67, "Enlightenment proceeds from Jehovah by and through Christ Jesus and is given to the faithful anointed on earth at the temple, and brings great peace and consolation to them. Again Zechariah talked with the angel of the Lord, which shows that the remnant are instructed by the angels of the Lord. The remnant do not hear audible sounds, because such is not necessary. Jehovah has provided his own good way to convey thoughts to the minds of his anointed ones...Those of the remnant, being honest and true, must say, We do not know; and the Lord enlightens them, sending his angels for that very purpose."
31.Jump up ^ "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?", The Watchtower, March 1, 1979, pp. 23-24.
32.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, October 15, 1954, page 638.
33.Jump up ^ "Name and Purpose of The Watchtower", The Watchtower, August 15, 1950, page 263.
34.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 84, 89, 92, 119–120. ISBN 0-631-16310-7.
35.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 22.
36.^ Jump up to: a b "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30-31.
37.Jump up ^ "Make Your Advancement Manifest", The Watchtower, August 1, 2001, page 14, "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."
38.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today", Watchtower, February 1, 1952, pp. 79–80.
39.Jump up ^ Testimony by Fred Franz, Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954. p. 123, as reproduced in R. Franz In Search of Christian Freedom, Q: "Did you imply that the individual member has the right of reading the books and the Bible and forming his own view as to the proper interpretation of Holy Writ?" A: "No".
40.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-State Relations: Accounting for the Differing Trajectories of Seventh-day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, 1995, 56:4 p. 371.
41.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. pp. 143, 153–165. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
42.Jump up ^ "Do You Appreciate Jehovah’s Organization?", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998.
43.Jump up ^ "The Visible Part of God’s Organization", The Watchtower, May 1, 1981.
44.Jump up ^ "Theocratic Organization with Which to Move Forward Now", The Watchtower, December 15, 1971, page 754.
45.Jump up ^ "Directing Interest to the Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1987, page 3.
46.Jump up ^ "Restoration of True Religion Today", The Watchtower, March 1, 1954, page 151.
47.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, October 1, 1967; cited in Penton 1997, p. 163.
48.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 118.
49.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 33.
50.Jump up ^ "Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 16.
51.Jump up ^ "Building Disciples Having the Quality of Endurance", The Watchtower, April 1, 1970, page 213.
52.Jump up ^ "Do Not Resist Jehovah’s Counsel", The Watchtower, July 15, 1965, page 435.
53.Jump up ^ "Loyalty to theocratic organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, November 1, 1953.
54.Jump up ^ "Serve Jehovah Loyally", The Watchtower, November 15, 1992, page 21.
55.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 316.
56.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 449.
57.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 449–464, "Loyalty to the organization becomes the touchstone, the criterion, the "bottom line", when it comes to determining whether one is a faithful Christian or not ... to make any organizational loyalty the criterion for judging anyone's Christianity is, then, clearly a perversion of Scripture ... Read the whole of those Scriptures ,,, nowehere are we taught to put faith in men or in an earthly organization, unquestioningly following its lead ... the entire Bible record is a continual reminder of the danger inherent in that kind of trust."
58.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 458.
59.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 121.
60.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 156. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
61.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, December 1, 1916, R6010: page 371.
62.Jump up ^ "Religion’s Future in View of Its Past", Awake!, October 22, 1989, p. 17.
63.Jump up ^ "Is religion at the root of Mankind's problem?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 5.
64.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, pp. 183–184.
65.Jump up ^ Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 203.
66.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 1.
67.Jump up ^ "Take Refuge in the Name of Jehovah". The Watchtower: 3. January 15, 2011.
68.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 172.
69.Jump up ^ All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 336.
70.Jump up ^ "Obedience to the Good News a Way of Life", The Watchtower, October 15, 1977, page 618.
71.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 199-208.
72.Jump up ^ "Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures—Which?", The Watchtower March 1, 1995, p. 19.
73.Jump up ^ "We Have Found the Messiah"!, The Watchtower, October 1, 1992, p. 10.
74.Jump up ^ United In Worship of the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1983, p. 111.
75.^ Jump up to: a b Holden 2002, p. 24.
76.Jump up ^ Should You Believe in the Trinity?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 14, 20.
77.Jump up ^ Insight In The Scriptures volume 1, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 969.
78.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 1981, page 6, "Jehovah God truly is a person and has a body as well as a certain location. ... He has a location in the highest heavens"
79.Jump up ^ "Is God Everywhere?", Awake! March 8, 1995, p. 21.
80.Jump up ^ "Eternal Torment — Why a Disturbing Doctrine?", The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 5.
81.Jump up ^ "God’s Wisdom in Dealing with Mankind", Awake!, June 8, 1971, page 12.
82.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 184.
83.Jump up ^ "Who Are Giving God Glory Today?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2004, page 12.
84.^ Jump up to: a b Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. p. 494. ISBN 0-914675-16-8. "The fact remains that today no religious group of any size uses the name "Jehovah" with such intense frequency as does that of Jehovah's Witnesses. That name predominates throughout their literature. Among Jehovah's Witnesses it has become almost strange to speak of "God" without prefacing the term by saying "Jehovah God", while the term "Lord" is quite rare in their expressions. They read "Lord" in the Bible but hardly ever use it in their own speech extemporaneously. It is almost a liturgical form for them in most prayers to initially address these to "Jehovah" or "Jehovah God"."
85.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 489
86.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures volume 2, p. 52 Jesus Christ
87.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2002, p. 184
88.Jump up ^ "What Do the Scriptures Say About 'the Divinity of Christ'?, The Watchtower January 15, 1992 p. 20-23.
89.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Word Is Alive Highlights From the Book of Revelation", The Watchtower, February 15, 2009 p. 3.
90.Jump up ^ Jesus? The Ruler "Whose Origin Is From Early Times", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998, p. 22.
91.Jump up ^ Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace”, chap. 20 p. 163 par. 8 A Happy Human Family Under a New Fatherhood
92.Jump up ^ "Appreciate Jesus’ Unique Role in God’s Purpose", pages 13-14, The Watchtower, December 15, 2008, "The original-language word translated “mediator” is a legal term. It refers to Jesus as a legal Mediator (or, in a sense, an attorney) of the new covenant... What about those who are not in the new covenant, those who hope to live forever on earth, not in heaven? While not participants in the new covenant, these are beneficiaries of it. ... Whether we have a heavenly hope or an earthly hope, each one of us has good reason to appreciate Jesus’ role as the Mediator of the new covenant."
93.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 2, page 360.
94.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 188–189.
95.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, August 15, 1989, p. 30.
96.Jump up ^ Is Jesus God Almighty? - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
97.Jump up ^ Jesus' Family—Who Were They? The Watchtower December 15, 2003, p. 3
98.Jump up ^ "They Are No Part of the World". Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. p. 200.
99.Jump up ^ Geocities.com
100.Jump up ^ What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Jehovah's Witnesses. 2005. pp. 51,201–204.
101.Jump up ^ "European High Court Upholds Right to Preach in Greece". The Watchtower (Watchtower): 28–29. 1 September 1993.
102.Jump up ^ "Poland". 1994 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watchtower. p. 206.
103.^ Jump up to: a b c Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. pp. 144–145.
104.^ Jump up to: a b What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. p. 32.
105.^ Jump up to: a b "Declaration and resolution", The Watchtower, December 1, 1973, page 724.
106.Jump up ^ "Angels—How They Affect Us". The Watchtower: 7. January 15, 2006.
107.Jump up ^ What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. pp. 87,216.
108.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, 15 March 2009, p. 15, “Be Vigilant”
109.Jump up ^ Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 189, 190. ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2.
110.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 106. ISBN 0-631-16310-7. "God is believed to have banished from heaven a number of 'wicked spirit creatures' who are understood to be the main source of human frustration on earth. Consequently, Jehovah's witnesses learn to cultivate a very noticeable fear of phenomena connected with the occult; they 'believe in' ghosts, for example, to the extent of shunning conversation about them and of refusing to listen to ghost-stories."
111.Jump up ^ Havor Montague, "The Pessimistic Sect's Influence on the Mental Health of Its Members", Social Compass, 1977/1, page 144.
112.Jump up ^ Grizzuti Harrison, Barbara (1978), "8", Visions of Glory, Robert Hale, ISBN 0-7091-8013-6, "The Watchtower concludes, from this bizarre account, that "one can see from this that one need not live in fear of the demons". But of course the result of all this misbegotten advice is to keep the Witnesses in constant fear of "demon harassment". Their demons are never exorcised."
113.Jump up ^ "Angels-How They Affect Us", The Watchtower, January 15, 2006 pg. 7, "Demons are dangerous, but we do not dread them."
114.Jump up ^ "True Religion Dispels Fear–How?" The Watchtower, November 1, 1987, pg. 6, "True, demons are powerful. But ... demons shudder out of dread of Jehovah. But the Almighty God offers you his protection if you ask for it. Bible writer James further says: "Subject yourselves, therefore, to God; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7) Your superstitious fear will likewise flee."
115.Jump up ^ "What Has God’s Kingdom Been Doing Since 1914?", The Watchtower, October 15, 1966, page 617.
116.Jump up ^ The Government That Will Bring Paradise, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 3.
117.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures,, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 1, page 310.
118.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 6.
119.Jump up ^ Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 225-234.
120.Jump up ^ "God’s Kingdom—Earth’s New Rulership", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, page 10.
121.Jump up ^ You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 77.
122.Jump up ^ "Is There LIFE After Death?", The Watchtower July 15, 2001.
123.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 333.
124.Jump up ^ "The Only Remedy!", The Watchtower March 15, 2006, p. 6.
125.Jump up ^ "Hell—Eternal Torture or Common Grave?" The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 6.
126.Jump up ^ "Comfort for Those Who Mourn", Awake! May 8, 2002, p. 19.
127.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 2005, p. 31.
128.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures, Vol 1, p. 906.
129.Jump up ^ "The Dead Who Are in Line for Resurrection", The Watchtower, February 1, 1965, p.76.
130.Jump up ^ "Satan Worship in Our Time", The Watchtower, September 1, 1988, p. 5.
131.Jump up ^ "What Is the Bible’s View? Mourning for the Dead", Awake!, December 8, 1974, pp. 26-28.
132.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/60 p. 229 Does the Bible Teach What You Believe?
133.Jump up ^ "Is Your Life Predestined?", Awake!, May 2007, p. 13.
134.Jump up ^ "Preaching in a Lawless World", The Watchtower, July 15, 1979, page 13, paragraph 4; cited in James Penton, ‘’Apocalypse Delayed”, pg. 206.
135.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
136.Jump up ^ Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
137.Jump up ^ The terms "little flock" and "other sheep" are drawn from Luke 12:32 and John 10:16 respectively.
138.Jump up ^ ”Keep Your Hope of Salvation Bright!”, The Watchtower, June 1, 2000, pages 9-14.
139.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 110. ISBN 0-631-16310-7.
140.Jump up ^ Hoekema, Anthony A. (1963). The Four Major Cults. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans. p. 285. ISBN 0-8028-3117-6.
141.Jump up ^ ”Salvation – What It Really Means,” The Watchtower, August 15, 1997, pgs 4-7.
142.Jump up ^ ”Rejoicing in Our Hope”, The Watchtower, March 15, 2012, page 20.
143.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/1/96 p. 10 Look to Jehovah for Comfort: “One of the main operations of God’s spirit upon first-century Christians was to anoint them as adopted spiritual sons of God and brothers of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 22) This is reserved for only 144,000 disciples of Christ. (Revelation 14:1, 3)”
144.Jump up ^ Survivors Out of All the Nations, ©1984 Watch Tower, page 65
145.Jump up ^ "Congregation of God", Watchtower Publications Index 1930–1985, "CONGREGATION OF GOD (Also called 144,000; Anointed; Body of Christ; Bride of Christ; Chosen Ones; Elect; Holy Nation; Israel of God; Kingdom Class; Little Flock; New Creation; New Nation; Royal House; Royal Priesthood; Sanctuary Class; Sons of Levi; Spirit Begotten; Spiritual Israel; Spiritual Sons)"
146.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/07 p. 31: “They do not believe that they necessarily have more holy spirit than their companions of the other sheep have; nor do they expect special treatment or claim that their partaking of the emblems places them above the appointed elders in the congregation”
147.Jump up ^ “United In Worship Of The Only True God” chap. 14 pp. 112-113 ‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’: “Spiritual Sons—How Do They Know? ... God’s spirit gives positive assurance of adoption as spiritual sons to baptized Christians who have received the heavenly calling.
148.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/1/98 p. 20 par. 7 The Other Sheep and the New Covenant
149.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/95 p. 11 par. 12 'There Will Be a Resurrection of the Righteous: “Men and women of old who exercised strong faith in Jehovah and his promises and remained faithful to the death were declared righteous by Jehovah on the basis of their faith, and they will without doubt share in the ‘resurrection of the righteous.’
150.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/15/06 p. 6 A Sure Guide to Happiness: “Acts 24:15 ... “There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” So even “the unrighteous,” many individuals who did not know and serve Jehovah, will get a future opportunity to gain God’s favor.”
151.Jump up ^ You Can Believe in a Paradise Earth The Watchtower November 15, 2003, p. 4.
152.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 3/15/06 p. 6 The Only Remedy!: “Some committed sins for which there is no forgiveness. They are not in Hades (mankind’s common grave) but in Gehenna, a symbolic place of eternal destruction. (Matthew 23:33)
153.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/95 p. 31 Questions From Readers: “In summary, we might remember “other sheep” as the broader term, encompassing all of God’s servants having the hope of living forever on earth. It includes the more limited category of sheeplike ones today who are being gathered as a “great crowd” with the hope of living right through the impending great tribulation”.
154.Jump up ^ "Christ’s Presence—What Does It Mean to You?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2008, page 21.
155.Jump up ^ "Maintain Your Sense of Urgency", The Watchtower, March 15, 2012, p. 18.
156.Jump up ^ "Jesus’ Coming or Jesus’ Presence—Which?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1996, p. 12.
157.Jump up ^ "Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2013, p. 6.
158.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 1, 1996, p6.
159.Jump up ^ "Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses say that God’s Kingdom was established in 1914?", Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 95-96.
160.Jump up ^ Gruss, Edmond C. (1972). The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. pp. 20–58. ISBN 0-87552-306-4.
161.Jump up ^ Let Your Kingdom Come, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1981, pp. 186-189 Appendix to Chapter 14.
162.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, pp. 217-218.
163.Jump up ^ The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1981, pg 86.
164.Jump up ^ True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1986, pp 81-84.
165.Jump up ^ "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world as a witness to all nations. And then the end shall come." - Matthew 24:14.
166.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, p11.
167.Jump up ^ Awake!, October 22, 1993, p. 11.
168.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 102-104.
169.Jump up ^ "Deliverance by God’s Kingdom Is at Hand!", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 15.
170.Jump up ^ Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 235-236.
171.Jump up ^ "Apocalypse—When?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1986, page 6.
172.Jump up ^ Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 286.
173.Jump up ^ "Strengthening Our Confidence in God's Righteousness", The Watchtower, August 15, 1998 p. 20
174.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1959, pp. 530-531 par. 15.
175.Jump up ^ Armageddon—A Happy Beginning Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
176.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 180.
177.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, p 6.
178.^ Jump up to: a b Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 186–187. ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
179.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988,p. 788.
180.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 2005, p. 20.
181.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, August 15, 2006, p. 31
182.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 2006, pp. 94,95.
183.^ Jump up to: a b Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 1, 1984, page 31.
184.^ Jump up to: a b c Holden 2002, pp. 150–170.
185.^ Jump up to: a b "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
186.^ Jump up to: a b c d e Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 1985, page 31, "Such ones willfully abandoning the Christian congregation thereby become part of the ‘antichrist.’ A person who had willfully and formally disassociated himself from the congregation would have matched that description. By deliberately repudiating God’s congregation and by renouncing the Christian way, he would have made himself an apostate. A loyal Christian would not have wanted to fellowship with an apostate ... Scripturally, a person who repudiated God’s congregation became more reprehensible than those in the world."
187.^ Jump up to: a b Reasoning From the Scriptures, pages 34-35.
188.Jump up ^ Pay Attention To Yourselves and to All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 94-95.
189.^ Jump up to: a b c "Remain Solid in the Faith", The Watchtower, August 1, 1980, pages 17-21.
190.Jump up ^ "At Which Table Are You Feeding", The Watchtower, July 1, 1994, pages 11-12.
191.Jump up ^ "Will You Heed Jehovah's Clear Warnings?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2011, page 16.
192.Jump up ^ Jerome Taylor, "War of words breaks out among Jehovah's Witnesses", The Independent, September 27, 2011.
193.Jump up ^ "Why So Many Christian Sects?" The Watchtower, March 15, 1975, page 167.
194.Jump up ^ "Search Through Me, Oh God," The Watchtower, October 1, 1993, page 19.
195.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 271–273
196.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-State Relations: Accounting for the Differing Trajectories of Seventh-day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, 1995, 56:4 pg 369
197.Jump up ^ "Remain Without Spot From the World", The Watchtower, October 1, 1984, p. 17 par. 10.
198.Jump up ^ "Repudiate Valueless Things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 4.
199.Jump up ^ "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, pages 26-29.
200.^ Jump up to: a b Holden 2002, p. 135.
201.Jump up ^ "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, p. 26-31.
202.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 314–315.
203.Jump up ^ "Some Educational Opportunities Available", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 2011, Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, Inc., pages 5-6
204.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 67.
Bibliography[edit]
Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
Penton, James M. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
Franz, Raymond (2002). Crisis of Conscience. Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-23-0.
Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-16-8.
Botting, Gary and Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press.
Botting, Gary (1993). Fundamental Freedoms and Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Calgary Press.
External links[edit]
Official Web Site of the Jehovah's Witnesses
 



Categories: Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses



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 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah%27s_Witnesses_beliefs















Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
The beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the Bible teachings of Charles Taze Russell—founder of the Bible Student movement—and successive presidents of the Watch Tower Society, Joseph Franklin Rutherford and Nathan Homer Knorr.[1][2][3] Since 1976 all doctrinal decisions have been made by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses,[4] a group of elders at the religion's Brooklyn headquarters. These teachings are disseminated through The Watchtower magazine and other publications of Jehovah's Witnesses, and at conventions and congregation meetings.[5]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach that the present age of human existence is about to be terminated with the direct intervention of God, who will use Jesus Christ to fully establish his heavenly government over earth, destroying existing human governments and non-Witnesses,[6][7][8] and creating a cleansed society of true worshippers. They see their mission as primarily evangelical (disseminating "good news"), to warn as many people as possible in the remaining time before Armageddon.[9][10] All members of the religion are expected to take an active part in preaching.[11] Witnesses refer to all their beliefs collectively as "the Truth".[12]



Contents  [hide]
1 Source of doctrines
2 Organization
3 Restorationism
4 Bible
5 God
6 Jesus Christ
7 Cross
8 Satan
9 God's Messianic Kingdom
10 Death
11 Salvation 11.1 144,000 anointed
11.2 Other sheep
12 Eschatology
13 Defection
14 Apostasy
15 Education
16 References
17 Bibliography
18 External links

Source of doctrines[edit]
See also: Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
Doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses are established by their Governing Body. Until late 2012, the Governing Body described itself as the representative[13][14] and "spokesman" for God's "faithful and discreet slave class"[14][15][16][17] (the approximately 10,000 "anointed" Jehovah's Witnesses), which Witnesses were taught Christ used as a channel for God's progressive revelations and to direct Christians on biblical matters.[18][19][20] The Governing Body seeks neither advice nor approval from any "anointed" Witnesses other than high-ranking members at the Brooklyn headquarters.[15][21][22] At the 2012 Annual Meeting of the Watch Tower Society, the "faithful and discreet slave" was defined as referring to the Governing Body only.[23]
Jehovah's Witnesses are instructed to welcome changes to their religion's doctrine, regarding such "adjustments" as "new light" or "new understanding" from God.[24][25] The view is based on their interpretation of Proverbs 4:18, which they believe refers to a continuous progressive advancement in doctrinal knowledge and scriptural understanding for "righteous ones",[26][27] with the holy spirit helping "responsible representatives of 'the faithful and discreet slave' at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood".[28] Watch Tower literature has suggested such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study,[29] the guidance of holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels,[30] however, the Governing Body also disclaims infallibility and divine inspiration.[31][32][33] The religion makes no provision for members to criticize or contribute to official teachings[34] and all Witnesses are expected to abide by the doctrines and organizational requirements as determined by the Governing Body.[35] Watch Tower Society publications strongly discourage Witnesses from formulating doctrines and "private ideas" reached through independent Bible research.[36][37][38][39] Members who promote privately developed teachings contrary to those of the Governing Body may be expelled and shunned.[36][40][41]
Organization[edit]
See also: Organizational structure of Jehovah's Witnesses



 Organizational headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that God uses an organization both in heaven and on earth, and that Jehovah's Witnesses, under the direction of their Governing Body, are the only visible channel by which God communicates with humanity.[42][43] The organization is said to be theocratic, "ruled from the divine Top down, and not from the rank and file up".[44] Witnesses teach that people must choose between God’s organization and Satan’s.[45][46] Watch Tower publications teach that the Bible is an "organizational book" that does not belong to individuals and that the Bible cannot be properly understood without guidance by "Jehovah's visible organization".[47]
Witnesses undergoing baptism are required to publicly confirm that they are associating themselves "with God's spirit-directed organization",[48] thereby submitting themselves to its direction and judicial system.[49] Watch Tower Society publications urge Witnesses to demonstrate loyalty to the organization without dissent,[50][51] even at the cost of family ties.[52] Loyalty to the organization is said to require full involvement in public preaching[53] and regular meeting attendance.[54]
Disagreement with the Watch Tower Society's concept of God's organization figured prominently in events that led to a 1980 purge of high-level members at the religion's Brooklyn headquarters. A summary by a Governing Body committee of "wrong teachings" being promoted as "new understandings" included the suggestion that God did not have an organization on earth.[55] Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz, who was expelled as part of the purge, subsequently criticized the Watch Tower concept of organization,[56] claiming the concept—which posits that God does not deal with individuals apart from an organization—has no scriptural support and serves only to reinforce the religion's authority structure, with its strong emphasis on human authority.[57] He also claimed that The Watchtower has repeatedly blurred discussions of both Jesus Christ's loyalty to God and the apostles' loyalty to Christ to promote the view that Witnesses should be loyal to the Watch Tower Society.[58] Sociologist Andrew Holden has observed that Witnesses see no distinction between loyalty to Jehovah and to the movement itself,[59] and other researchers have claimed that challenging the views of those higher up the hierarchical ladder is regarded as tantamount to challenging God himself.[60]
Restorationism[edit]
See also: History of Jehovah's Witnesses and Restorationism (Christian primitivism)
Witnesses believe that after the death of the apostles, the Church embarked on a "Great Apostasy", diverging from the original teachings of Jesus on several major points. Influenced by Restorationism in the 19th century, Charles Taze Russell and his associates formed a Bible study group in the 1870s in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, developing teachings that they considered to be a revival of "the great truths taught by Jesus and the Apostles".[61] Watch Tower publications claim both the Great Apostasy and Russell's subsequent "restoration" of original Christianity[62] were a fulfilment of Jesus' parable of the wheat and the weeds at Matthew 13:24-30,36-43.[63] Although many of their eschatological teachings have changed over the years,[64] Jehovah's Witnesses have consistently claimed to be the only true religion.[65] Based on their interpretation of Revelation 18:2-24, Jehovah's Witnesses believe all other religions are part of "Babylon the Great", a "world empire of false religion" under the control of Satan; consequently, they refuse all ecumenical relations with other religious denominations.[66][67]
Bible[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses prefer to use the New World Translation of the Bible
See also: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures
The entire Protestant canon of scripture is seen as the inspired, inerrant word of God.[68] Jehovah's Witnesses consider the Bible to be scientifically and historically accurate and reliable[69] and interpret much of it literally, while also accepting it contains much symbolism.[70] Jehovah's Witnesses base all of their beliefs on the Bible, as interpreted by the Governing Body.[71]
They use the terms Hebrew and Christian Greek Scriptures rather than Old and New Testament to avoid implication that the Old Testament is outdated or inferior.[72] They believe that the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) contain prophecy that was fulfilled in Jesus Christ,[73] and that the books of the Christian Greek Scriptures (New Testament) are primarily directed to the 144,000 chosen by God for life in heaven.[74] The Watch Tower Society's New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures—the main translation used by Jehovah's Witnesses—renders the name of God as Jehovah, rather than God or LORD as found in English translations such as the King James Version.
God[edit]
Main article: God in Abrahamic religions
See also: Jehovah and Nontrinitarianism
Jehovah's Witnesses believe God is the Creator and Supreme Being. Witnesses reject the Trinity doctrine, which they consider unscriptural.[75] They view God as the Father, an invisible spirit "person" separate from the Son, Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is described as God's "active force", rather than the third part of the Trinity.[76] They believe God, whose personal name is Jehovah, is "infinite, but approachable"; he is not omnipresent, but has a location in heaven;[77][78] it is possible to have a personal relationship with him as a friend;[79] he is kind and merciful, and would not eternally "torture" wicked people.[80] Being respectful of the principle of free will, he does not force his sovereignty on people, choosing to save only those who want to serve him, even though the course of mankind in general may lead them to harm.[81]
Witnesses teach that God must be distinguished by his personal name—Jehovah. The name is a common modern Latinized form of the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, or four-letter name, transliterated as YHWH.[82] The use of his personal name is regarded as vital for true worship,[83] and Witnesses usually preface the term God with the name Jehovah.[84] The title, LORD (Greek: Kyrios), is rarely used by Witnesses when speaking about God.[84] Because no other religion uses the name Jehovah with the same prevalence, they believe only their religion is making God's name known.[85]
Jesus Christ[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus is God's "only-begotten Son", and that his life began in heaven.[86] He is described as God's first creation and the "exact representation of God",[87] but is believed to be a separate entity and not part of a Trinity. Jesus is said to have been used by God in the creation of all other things.[88] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the Archangel, Michael, "the Word" of John 1:1, and wisdom personified in Proverbs 8 refer to Jesus in his pre-human existence and that he resumed these identities after his ascension to heaven following his death and resurrection. They also identify him with the "rider of the white horse" at Revelation 6 and 19.[89] His birth on earth was accomplished when he willingly allowed himself to be transferred, by God, from heaven to the womb of the virgin, Mary.[90] While on earth, Jesus was executed as a sacrifice to atone for mankind's sins, becoming the "eternal father" to the human family.[91]
They believe that after his death, Jesus appeared to his disciples, convinced them of his resurrection, and then ascended into heaven to sit at Jehovah's right hand until he would become the promised king of God's heavenly kingdom. Jesus acts as the mediator of a "new covenant"[92] referred to in Jeremiah 31:31, Luke 22:20, and Hebrews 9:15; 12:24, directly mediating only for those going to heaven (the 144,000). Those with an earthly hope are said to be beneficiaries of that covenant.[93][94][95] Even as king of God's kingdom, Jesus remains subordinate to God.[96] Witnesses reject the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary, who they believe bore more children after Jesus.[97]
Cross[edit]
See also: Dispute about Jesus' execution method
The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society used the Cross and Crown symbol on tombstones, and on its publications until 1931.[98][99] Since 1936, Jehovah's Witnesses have rejected the idea that Jesus died on a cross, and instead teach that he died on a single wooden stake (crux simplex), asserting that the Koiné Greek word σταυρος (stauros) refers to a single upright post. They consider the cross to be of pagan origins and an object of idol worship.[100] Some Jehovah's Witnesses have been persecuted or killed for not bowing down to or kissing a cross.[101][102]
Satan[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan was originally a perfect angel who developed feelings of self-importance and craved worship that belonged to God. Satan persuaded Adam and Eve to obey him rather than God, raising the issue—often referred to as a "controversy"—of whether people, having been granted free will, would obey God under both temptation and persecution. The issue is said to be whether God can rightfully claim to be sovereign of the universe.[103][104] Instead of destroying Satan, God decided to test the loyalty of the rest of humankind and to prove to the rest of creation that Satan was a liar.[75][105] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan is God's chief adversary[105] and the invisible ruler of the world.[103][104] They believe that demons were originally angels who rebelled against God and took Satan's side in the controversy.[106]
Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe that Satan lives in Hell or that he has been given responsibility to punish the wicked. Satan and his demons are said to have been cast down from heaven to the earth in 1914, marking the beginning of the "last days".[103][107] Witnesses believe that Satan and his demons influence individuals, organisations and nations, and that they are the cause of human suffering. At Armageddon, Satan is to be bound for 1,000 years, and then given a brief opportunity to mislead perfect humanity before being destroyed.[108]
Writers including James Beckford and former members James Penton and Barbara Grizzuti Harrison have stated that Jehovah's Witnesses' have a fear of demons, which Penton says is "sometimes so extreme that it becomes quite superstitious". But Penton also notes that avoidance of "demonistic practices" has released many people in Africa and Latin America from fear of spirits.[109][110][111][112] Watch Tower Society publications state that Witnesses need not harbor dread or superstitious fear of demons, because their power over humans is limited.[113][114]
God's Messianic Kingdom[edit]
Publications of Jehovah's Witnesses teach that God's kingdom is a literal government in heaven, established in 1914,[115] ruled by Jesus Christ and 144,000 humans raised to heaven.[116] The kingdom is viewed as the means by which God will accomplish his original purpose for the earth,[117][118] bringing about a world free of crime, sickness, death and poverty, and ultimately transforming the earth into a paradise.[119] The kingdom is said to have been the focus of Jesus' ministry.[120]
Death[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses believe the soul is mortal, with a hope of resurrection
Witnesses regard the soul as mortal, based on the statement at Ezekiel 18:4 that "the soul that sins, it shall die" (MKJV)[121] and thus believe the soul does not continue to live after one dies.[122] Death is considered a state of non-existence, based on their understanding of Ecclesiastes 9:5, "For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all." Witnesses believe that the only hope for life after death is in the resurrection, which they say involves re-creation by God of the same individual with a new body.[123] They believe that 144,000 people will be resurrected to life as spirit creatures in heaven to be priestly rulers under Christ, but the vast majority, to physical life on earth.[124]
Watch Tower publications teach that hell (hades or sheol) is not a place of fiery torment, but rather the "common grave of mankind", a place of unconscious non-existence.[125] Gehenna, the Bible word commonly translated "hellfire", is said to describe a judgment of complete destruction,[126] from which resurrection is not possible.[127] They reason that complete destruction does not allow for literal "torture" of the wicked, as the deceased person is not conscious.[128] Based on this, they believe that parables such as that of "the rich man and Lazarus" should not be interpreted literally, and that such references are speaking of symbolic death, not the physical death of actual individuals.[129]
Witnesses teach that wicked angels (demons) sometimes pretend to be spirits of the dead, and that their deception is the basis for many beliefs about ghosts.[130][131]
Salvation[edit]
Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
Jehovah's Witnesses' believe that faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice is essential for salvation. They reject the concept of universal salvation[132] and the concept of predestination. They believe that all intelligent creatures are endowed with free will, and that salvation is dependent on God's "undeserved kindness", but also requires faith in God and in the "ransom sacrifice" of Jesus Christ,[133] demonstrated by "zealous" preaching activity.[134][135][136] According to Watch Tower Society theology, salvation requires Christ's mediation as part of God's purpose to grant humans everlasting life, either in heaven (for 144,000 "anointed" Christians, or the "little flock") or on earth (for the "other sheep", the remainder of faithful humanity).[137] For anointed Witnesses, salvation is said to be achieved through their death and subsequent resurrection to heavenly life to share with Christ as a co-ruler of God's kingdom;[138] for others, it is gained through preservation during the battle of Armageddon.[139][140] Watch Tower Society publications state that salvation at Armageddon is also contingent on baptism, accurate knowledge of Bible truth, adherence to God's standards of conduct and morality, use of the divine name "Jehovah" in worship,[141] membership of God's "organization",[6] and active support of anointed Christians.[142]
144,000 anointed[edit]
Based on a literal interpretation of scriptures such as Revelation 14:1–4, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that exactly 144,000 faithful Christians go to heaven as spirit creatures to rule with Christ in the kingdom of God. They believe that most of those are already in heaven, and that the "remnant" at Revelation 12:17 (KJV) refers to those remaining alive on earth who will be immediately resurrected to heaven when they die. The Witnesses understand Jesus’ words at John 3:3—"except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God"—to apply to the 144,000 who are "born again" as "anointed" sons of God in heaven.[143] They associate the terms "Israel of God" (Galatians 6:16), "little flock" (Luke 12:32), and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" (Revelation 21:9) in the New Testament with the "anointed".[144][145]
Members who claim to be anointed are not given special treatment by other congregation members.[146] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that being "anointed" involves a personal revelation by God's spirit which "gives positive assurance of adoption" to the individual alone.[147] Only those claiming to be anointed partake of the unleavened bread and wine at the yearly commemoration of Christ's death, or Memorial. According to The Watchtower, "the Governing Body does not keep a list of all partakers, for it does not maintain a global network of anointed ones."[21]
Other sheep[edit]
Watch Tower Society literature states that Jesus' use of the term "other sheep" at John 10:16 indicates a separate class with an earthly hope.[148] Those of the "other sheep" who die faithful to God will receive the "resurrection of the righteous" ("just" KJV) mentioned at Acts 24:15.[149] Those who die without faithfully serving God will receive the "resurrection of the ... unrighteous" ("unjust" KJV). They will be given the opportunity to join Jesus' "other sheep" and live forever on a paradise earth.[150][151] Those destroyed at Armageddon and other specific judgments by God are not resurrected.[152] Those of the "other sheep" who survive Armageddon without needing a resurrection, are referred to as the "great crowd".[153]
Eschatology[edit]
Main article: Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jesus Christ began to rule in heaven invisibly as king in October 1914.[154] They assert that the Greek word parousia (translated in most English Bible translations as coming when referring to Christ) is more accurately rendered presence, perceived only by a composite "sign".[155] As such, the Second Coming is considered an invisible presence, lasting for an extended period of time, and ending with Jesus' "coming" to separate the Sheep and the Goats.[156][157] They believe that when Jesus became king, Satan was ousted from heaven to the earth, bringing a period of "woe" to mankind.[158]
Witnesses base their beliefs about the significance of 1914 on the Watch Tower Society's interpretation of biblical chronology,[159] based on their belief that the destruction of Jerusalem and the beginning of the Babylonian captivity both occurred in 607 BCE. (The secularly accepted date for the fall of Jerusalem is within a year of 587 BCE; exiles were taken in various years, with most Jews exiled to Babylon following the siege of Jerusalem of 597 BCE.) They believe that Daniel chapter 4 prophesied a period of 2,520 years starting with 607 BCE and ending at 1914 CE.[160][161] They equate this period with the "Gentile Times" or "the appointed times of the nations", a phrase taken from Luke 21:24. They believe that when the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, the line of kings descended from David was interrupted, and that God's throne was "trampled on" from then until Jesus began ruling in October 1914.[162] Witnesses believe their doctrine is confirmed by world events since 1914, including wars, famine, earthquakes and increasing lawlessness, which they see as fulfillment of the "sign" of Christ's presence.[163][164] They believe that their preaching is also part of that sign, citing Matthew 24:14.[165][166][167] Witnesses teach that in 1918, Jesus resurrected those of the 144,000 (the "anointed") who had already died to heavenly life; since 1918, any "anointed" are individually resurrected to heavenly life at the time of their death to serve as kings alongside Christ in his heavenly government.[168]
The current world era, or "system of things", is considered to be in its "last days",[169] facing imminent destruction through intervention by God and Jesus Christ, leading to deliverance for those who worship God acceptably. This judgment will begin with the destruction by the United Nations of false religion, which they identify as "Babylon the Great", or the "harlot", of Revelation 17.[170] This will mark the beginning of the great tribulation.[171] Satan will subsequently attack Jehovah's Witnesses, an action that will prompt God to begin the war of Armageddon, during which all forms of government and all people not counted as Christ's "sheep", or true followers, will be destroyed.[172] The Society's publications make no explicit claim about whether small children or the mentally ill will survive, but say God's judgment will be righteous and merciful.[173] After Armageddon, Satan will be abyssed and unable to influence humanity, then God will extend his heavenly kingdom to include earth,[174][175] which will be transformed into a paradise similar to the Garden of Eden.[176]
Most of those who had died prior to God's intervention will gradually be resurrected to a "day of judgment" lasting for the thousand years referred to in Revelation 20.[177][178] This judgment will be based on their actions after resurrection rather than past deeds.[179] At the end of the thousand years a final test will take place when Satan is released to mislead perfect mankind;[180] Satan and any who fail the test will be destroyed, leaving a fully tested, perfect human race who will live forever.[178][181] Christ will then hand all authority back to God.[182]
Defection[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications assert that members of the religion are not compelled to remain part of the congregation.[183] However, Jehovah's Witness doctrines provide no method for baptized members to leave the religion on good terms.[184] Those who choose to depart and announce their decision to terminate their membership are regarded as abandoning God's organization and protection and voluntarily entering the world of Satan,[184][185] becoming part of the antichrist.[186] Watch Tower publications define such individuals as being "more reprehensible than those in the world"[186] and direct that they are to be shunned by other Witnesses, including close relatives, with no social or religious contact and no greeting given.[183][185] Sociologist Andrew Holden claims his research indicated many Witnesses who would otherwise defect because of disillusionment with the organization and its teachings remain affiliated out of fear of being shunned and losing contact with friends and family members.[184]
Apostasy[edit]
Watch Tower Society publications define apostasy as the abandonment of the worship and service of God by members of the Christian congregation, and equate it with rebellion against God.[187] Apostate behavior is said to include the rejection of biblical teachings or requirements, the rejection of Jehovah’s organization, association with or support for another religion[186] and celebration of religious holidays.[188] It is grounds for expulsion from the religion and subsequent shunning. Promotion of personal doctrinal views that deviate from official teachings is also regarded as apostasy. The "identifying marks" of apostates are said to include attempts to gain followers, disregard for the Witnesses’ preaching activity, rejection of God's visible organization, public criticism of other Witnesses and attempts to hinder their work.[187] Other identifying behavior is said to include deviation from the truth, twisted, empty speech, hypocrisy and involvement in deeper forms of ungodliness.[189] Watch Tower Society literature says apostates are motivated by vitriolic bitterness and that their writings are poisonous, distorted and false, display the characteristics of "cunning, contrived error, prideful intelligence, lack of love and dishonesty" and are designed to undermine the faith of Jehovah’s Witnesses.[190] Apostates are described as proud, independent, ungrateful and presumptuous,[189] mentally diseased,[191][192] displaying jealousy, fits of anger and other unchristian conduct and are said to often fall victim to drunken bouts, loose conduct and fornication.[189]
Witnesses who are defined as apostates are said to have become part of the antichrist and are regarded as more reprehensible than non-Witnesses.[186] They are described as "anti-God" and doomed to destruction.[193] Witnesses are told they must loathe and hate in the "biblical sense of the word" those who are defined as apostates and show no curiosity about their ideas.[194] Apostates must be shunned and Witnesses are warned that those who greet one become "a sharer in his wicked works".[186]
Education[edit]



 Jehovah's Witnesses are directed to study the Bible using Watch Tower Society publications
Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to make their preaching work the top priority in their life. Higher education is discouraged,[195][196] based on their belief that it is futile to plan for secular advancement in a world that faces imminent destruction, as well as fears about succumbing to "worldly thinking" and concerns that advanced education might lead to a lack of humility or involvement in immorality.[197][198][199] Because evangelistic activities take priority over educational success, young Witnesses rarely progress to college or university,[200] which Holden cites as a source of regret in subsequent years among those who are raised in the organization and later choose to leave.[200] Watch Tower Society publications advise parents to recommend alternatives to university education for their children, suggesting associate degrees from community or technical colleges or short courses in subjects such as office administration, automotive repair, computing, or hairdressing. They urge young Witnesses to pursue higher education only to gain skills to obtain a reasonable living while maintaining flexibility to pursue their "true" vocation, serving God.[201] Author James Penton's major study of the Witnesses, Apocalypse Delayed, noted that of those Witnesses who do progress to university, few are likely to take studies in such areas as the humanities and the social sciences, "disciplines that are most threatening to the Witness world-view".[202]
Jehovah's Witnesses provide standardized religious training programs for their members, focusing on improving skills for their ministry. These include the congregational Theocratic Ministry School, literacy classes, Pioneer Service School, Bible School for Single Brothers and Gilead School. Some of these programs are by invitation only.[203] Holden observed: "Despite the fact that Witnesses claim to reason from the scriptures, their theology is taught in a highly mechanistic fashion, and written publications encourage the members to learn almost by rote."[204]
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 13.
2.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106.
3.Jump up ^ "5". Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. p. 42.
4.Jump up ^ "United in Love—Annual Meeting Report". The Watchtower: 3. 15 June 2010. "In 1976, all activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses were brought under the supervision of the six committees of the Governing Body."
5.Jump up ^ Keep Yourselves in God’s Love, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2008, page 43, "The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses represents the slave class. ... elders today receive instructions and counsel from the Governing Body, either directly or through its representatives, such as traveling overseers."
6.^ Jump up to: a b "Remaining Organized for Survival Into the Millennium", The Watchtower, September 1, 1989, page 19, "Only Jehovah's Witnesses, those of the anointed remnant and the 'great crowd,' as a united organization under the protection of the Supreme Organizer, have any Scriptural hope of surviving the impending end of this doomed system dominated by Satan the Devil."
7.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 179.
8.Jump up ^ Garbe, Detlef (2008). Between Resistance and Martyrdom: Jehovah's Witnesses in the Third Reich. University of Wisconsin Press. pp. 37, 38. ISBN 0-299-20794-3. "In their opinion, only people who have accepted Jehovah and subsequently submit to his requirements will survive Armageddon and enter into the New World ... Jehovah's Witnesses also believe that a person confessing to worship God has to be associated with the true Christian denomination. Since they claim to be the only true religious denomination, they also claim to have the only means for salvation."
9.Jump up ^ "All True Christians Are Evangelizers", The Watchtower, January 1, 2002, pages 11-12, "Proselytize or Evangelize? The Greek language has the word pro·se’ly·tos, which means a “convert.” From this has come the English word “proselytism,” which basically means “the act of making converts.” Nowadays, some say that proselytism is harmful. ... Pressuring people to change their religion is wrong. Certainly, Jehovah’s Witnesses do not act in such a way. Hence, they do not proselytize in the modern meaning of the word. Rather ... they preach the good news to everyone. Any who respond voluntarily are invited to take in more knowledge by means of a Bible study."
10.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 7.
11.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 71–76. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
12.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 71.
13.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29
14.^ Jump up to: a b "Seek God's guidance in all things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 11.
15.^ Jump up to: a b "The faithful steward and its governing body", The Watchtower, June 15, 2009, page 20.
16.Jump up ^ "How the Governing Body Is Organized", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, p. 29.
17.Jump up ^ You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. Watchtower Society. 1989. p. 195.
18.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 16.
19.Jump up ^ "Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation", Watchtower, June 15, 1964, p. 365, "The abundance of spiritual food and the amazing details of Jehovah’s purposes that have been revealed to Jehovah’s anointed witnesses are clear evidence that they are the ones mentioned by Jesus when he foretold a 'faithful and discreet slave' class that would be used to dispense God’s progressive revelations in these last days...How thankful we should be for the provision God has made of this slave class, the modern spiritual remnant, as they faithfully dispense the revealed truths of Jehovah! ...Jehovah’s faithful witnesses have been progressively brought to an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes, which are clearer now than ever before in history."
20.Jump up ^ Watchtower August 1, 2001 p. 14 paragraph 8, "A mature Christian...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.'"
21.^ Jump up to: a b "Question From Readers", "The Watchtower", August 15, 2011, page 22
22.Jump up ^ Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. pp. 152–164. ISBN 0-914675-16-8.
23.Jump up ^ "Annual Meeting Report".
24.Jump up ^ Osamu Muramoto, "Bioethics of the Refusal of Blood by Jehovah's Witnesses, Part 1", Journal of Medical Ethics, August 1998, Vol 24, Issue 4, pp. 223-230.
25.Jump up ^ "The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter", The Watchtower, December 1, 1981, pp. 26-31.
26.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 132–133.
27.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 165–171.
28.Jump up ^ "The Spirit Searches into the Deep Things of God", The Watchtower, July 15, 2010, p. 23, "When the time comes to clarify a spiritual matter in our day, holy spirit helps responsible representatives of 'the faithful and discreet slave' at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood. The Governing Body as a whole considers adjusted explanations. What they learn, they publish for the benefit of all."
29.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 165.
30.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherdford, Preparation, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1933, page 64, 67, "Enlightenment proceeds from Jehovah by and through Christ Jesus and is given to the faithful anointed on earth at the temple, and brings great peace and consolation to them. Again Zechariah talked with the angel of the Lord, which shows that the remnant are instructed by the angels of the Lord. The remnant do not hear audible sounds, because such is not necessary. Jehovah has provided his own good way to convey thoughts to the minds of his anointed ones...Those of the remnant, being honest and true, must say, We do not know; and the Lord enlightens them, sending his angels for that very purpose."
31.Jump up ^ "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?", The Watchtower, March 1, 1979, pp. 23-24.
32.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, October 15, 1954, page 638.
33.Jump up ^ "Name and Purpose of The Watchtower", The Watchtower, August 15, 1950, page 263.
34.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 84, 89, 92, 119–120. ISBN 0-631-16310-7.
35.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 22.
36.^ Jump up to: a b "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30-31.
37.Jump up ^ "Make Your Advancement Manifest", The Watchtower, August 1, 2001, page 14, "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."
38.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today", Watchtower, February 1, 1952, pp. 79–80.
39.Jump up ^ Testimony by Fred Franz, Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954. p. 123, as reproduced in R. Franz In Search of Christian Freedom, Q: "Did you imply that the individual member has the right of reading the books and the Bible and forming his own view as to the proper interpretation of Holy Writ?" A: "No".
40.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-State Relations: Accounting for the Differing Trajectories of Seventh-day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, 1995, 56:4 p. 371.
41.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. pp. 143, 153–165. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
42.Jump up ^ "Do You Appreciate Jehovah’s Organization?", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998.
43.Jump up ^ "The Visible Part of God’s Organization", The Watchtower, May 1, 1981.
44.Jump up ^ "Theocratic Organization with Which to Move Forward Now", The Watchtower, December 15, 1971, page 754.
45.Jump up ^ "Directing Interest to the Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1987, page 3.
46.Jump up ^ "Restoration of True Religion Today", The Watchtower, March 1, 1954, page 151.
47.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, October 1, 1967; cited in Penton 1997, p. 163.
48.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 118.
49.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 33.
50.Jump up ^ "Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 16.
51.Jump up ^ "Building Disciples Having the Quality of Endurance", The Watchtower, April 1, 1970, page 213.
52.Jump up ^ "Do Not Resist Jehovah’s Counsel", The Watchtower, July 15, 1965, page 435.
53.Jump up ^ "Loyalty to theocratic organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, November 1, 1953.
54.Jump up ^ "Serve Jehovah Loyally", The Watchtower, November 15, 1992, page 21.
55.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 316.
56.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 449.
57.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 449–464, "Loyalty to the organization becomes the touchstone, the criterion, the "bottom line", when it comes to determining whether one is a faithful Christian or not ... to make any organizational loyalty the criterion for judging anyone's Christianity is, then, clearly a perversion of Scripture ... Read the whole of those Scriptures ,,, nowehere are we taught to put faith in men or in an earthly organization, unquestioningly following its lead ... the entire Bible record is a continual reminder of the danger inherent in that kind of trust."
58.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 458.
59.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 121.
60.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 156. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
61.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, December 1, 1916, R6010: page 371.
62.Jump up ^ "Religion’s Future in View of Its Past", Awake!, October 22, 1989, p. 17.
63.Jump up ^ "Is religion at the root of Mankind's problem?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2004, page 5.
64.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, pp. 183–184.
65.Jump up ^ Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 203.
66.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 1.
67.Jump up ^ "Take Refuge in the Name of Jehovah". The Watchtower: 3. January 15, 2011.
68.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 172.
69.Jump up ^ All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 336.
70.Jump up ^ "Obedience to the Good News a Way of Life", The Watchtower, October 15, 1977, page 618.
71.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 199-208.
72.Jump up ^ "Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures—Which?", The Watchtower March 1, 1995, p. 19.
73.Jump up ^ "We Have Found the Messiah"!, The Watchtower, October 1, 1992, p. 10.
74.Jump up ^ United In Worship of the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1983, p. 111.
75.^ Jump up to: a b Holden 2002, p. 24.
76.Jump up ^ Should You Believe in the Trinity?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 14, 20.
77.Jump up ^ Insight In The Scriptures volume 1, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 969.
78.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 1981, page 6, "Jehovah God truly is a person and has a body as well as a certain location. ... He has a location in the highest heavens"
79.Jump up ^ "Is God Everywhere?", Awake! March 8, 1995, p. 21.
80.Jump up ^ "Eternal Torment — Why a Disturbing Doctrine?", The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 5.
81.Jump up ^ "God’s Wisdom in Dealing with Mankind", Awake!, June 8, 1971, page 12.
82.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 184.
83.Jump up ^ "Who Are Giving God Glory Today?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2004, page 12.
84.^ Jump up to: a b Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. p. 494. ISBN 0-914675-16-8. "The fact remains that today no religious group of any size uses the name "Jehovah" with such intense frequency as does that of Jehovah's Witnesses. That name predominates throughout their literature. Among Jehovah's Witnesses it has become almost strange to speak of "God" without prefacing the term by saying "Jehovah God", while the term "Lord" is quite rare in their expressions. They read "Lord" in the Bible but hardly ever use it in their own speech extemporaneously. It is almost a liturgical form for them in most prayers to initially address these to "Jehovah" or "Jehovah God"."
85.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 489
86.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures volume 2, p. 52 Jesus Christ
87.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2002, p. 184
88.Jump up ^ "What Do the Scriptures Say About 'the Divinity of Christ'?, The Watchtower January 15, 1992 p. 20-23.
89.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Word Is Alive Highlights From the Book of Revelation", The Watchtower, February 15, 2009 p. 3.
90.Jump up ^ Jesus? The Ruler "Whose Origin Is From Early Times", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998, p. 22.
91.Jump up ^ Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace”, chap. 20 p. 163 par. 8 A Happy Human Family Under a New Fatherhood
92.Jump up ^ "Appreciate Jesus’ Unique Role in God’s Purpose", pages 13-14, The Watchtower, December 15, 2008, "The original-language word translated “mediator” is a legal term. It refers to Jesus as a legal Mediator (or, in a sense, an attorney) of the new covenant... What about those who are not in the new covenant, those who hope to live forever on earth, not in heaven? While not participants in the new covenant, these are beneficiaries of it. ... Whether we have a heavenly hope or an earthly hope, each one of us has good reason to appreciate Jesus’ role as the Mediator of the new covenant."
93.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 2, page 360.
94.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 188–189.
95.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, August 15, 1989, p. 30.
96.Jump up ^ Is Jesus God Almighty? - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
97.Jump up ^ Jesus' Family—Who Were They? The Watchtower December 15, 2003, p. 3
98.Jump up ^ "They Are No Part of the World". Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. p. 200.
99.Jump up ^ Geocities.com
100.Jump up ^ What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Jehovah's Witnesses. 2005. pp. 51,201–204.
101.Jump up ^ "European High Court Upholds Right to Preach in Greece". The Watchtower (Watchtower): 28–29. 1 September 1993.
102.Jump up ^ "Poland". 1994 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watchtower. p. 206.
103.^ Jump up to: a b c Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. pp. 144–145.
104.^ Jump up to: a b What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. p. 32.
105.^ Jump up to: a b "Declaration and resolution", The Watchtower, December 1, 1973, page 724.
106.Jump up ^ "Angels—How They Affect Us". The Watchtower: 7. January 15, 2006.
107.Jump up ^ What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. pp. 87,216.
108.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, 15 March 2009, p. 15, “Be Vigilant”
109.Jump up ^ Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 189, 190. ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2.
110.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 106. ISBN 0-631-16310-7. "God is believed to have banished from heaven a number of 'wicked spirit creatures' who are understood to be the main source of human frustration on earth. Consequently, Jehovah's witnesses learn to cultivate a very noticeable fear of phenomena connected with the occult; they 'believe in' ghosts, for example, to the extent of shunning conversation about them and of refusing to listen to ghost-stories."
111.Jump up ^ Havor Montague, "The Pessimistic Sect's Influence on the Mental Health of Its Members", Social Compass, 1977/1, page 144.
112.Jump up ^ Grizzuti Harrison, Barbara (1978), "8", Visions of Glory, Robert Hale, ISBN 0-7091-8013-6, "The Watchtower concludes, from this bizarre account, that "one can see from this that one need not live in fear of the demons". But of course the result of all this misbegotten advice is to keep the Witnesses in constant fear of "demon harassment". Their demons are never exorcised."
113.Jump up ^ "Angels-How They Affect Us", The Watchtower, January 15, 2006 pg. 7, "Demons are dangerous, but we do not dread them."
114.Jump up ^ "True Religion Dispels Fear–How?" The Watchtower, November 1, 1987, pg. 6, "True, demons are powerful. But ... demons shudder out of dread of Jehovah. But the Almighty God offers you his protection if you ask for it. Bible writer James further says: "Subject yourselves, therefore, to God; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7) Your superstitious fear will likewise flee."
115.Jump up ^ "What Has God’s Kingdom Been Doing Since 1914?", The Watchtower, October 15, 1966, page 617.
116.Jump up ^ The Government That Will Bring Paradise, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 3.
117.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures,, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 1, page 310.
118.Jump up ^ Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 6.
119.Jump up ^ Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 225-234.
120.Jump up ^ "God’s Kingdom—Earth’s New Rulership", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, page 10.
121.Jump up ^ You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 77.
122.Jump up ^ "Is There LIFE After Death?", The Watchtower July 15, 2001.
123.Jump up ^ Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 333.
124.Jump up ^ "The Only Remedy!", The Watchtower March 15, 2006, p. 6.
125.Jump up ^ "Hell—Eternal Torture or Common Grave?" The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 6.
126.Jump up ^ "Comfort for Those Who Mourn", Awake! May 8, 2002, p. 19.
127.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 2005, p. 31.
128.Jump up ^ Insight On The Scriptures, Vol 1, p. 906.
129.Jump up ^ "The Dead Who Are in Line for Resurrection", The Watchtower, February 1, 1965, p.76.
130.Jump up ^ "Satan Worship in Our Time", The Watchtower, September 1, 1988, p. 5.
131.Jump up ^ "What Is the Bible’s View? Mourning for the Dead", Awake!, December 8, 1974, pp. 26-28.
132.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/60 p. 229 Does the Bible Teach What You Believe?
133.Jump up ^ "Is Your Life Predestined?", Awake!, May 2007, p. 13.
134.Jump up ^ "Preaching in a Lawless World", The Watchtower, July 15, 1979, page 13, paragraph 4; cited in James Penton, ‘’Apocalypse Delayed”, pg. 206.
135.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
136.Jump up ^ Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
137.Jump up ^ The terms "little flock" and "other sheep" are drawn from Luke 12:32 and John 10:16 respectively.
138.Jump up ^ ”Keep Your Hope of Salvation Bright!”, The Watchtower, June 1, 2000, pages 9-14.
139.Jump up ^ Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 110. ISBN 0-631-16310-7.
140.Jump up ^ Hoekema, Anthony A. (1963). The Four Major Cults. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans. p. 285. ISBN 0-8028-3117-6.
141.Jump up ^ ”Salvation – What It Really Means,” The Watchtower, August 15, 1997, pgs 4-7.
142.Jump up ^ ”Rejoicing in Our Hope”, The Watchtower, March 15, 2012, page 20.
143.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/1/96 p. 10 Look to Jehovah for Comfort: “One of the main operations of God’s spirit upon first-century Christians was to anoint them as adopted spiritual sons of God and brothers of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 22) This is reserved for only 144,000 disciples of Christ. (Revelation 14:1, 3)”
144.Jump up ^ Survivors Out of All the Nations, ©1984 Watch Tower, page 65
145.Jump up ^ "Congregation of God", Watchtower Publications Index 1930–1985, "CONGREGATION OF GOD (Also called 144,000; Anointed; Body of Christ; Bride of Christ; Chosen Ones; Elect; Holy Nation; Israel of God; Kingdom Class; Little Flock; New Creation; New Nation; Royal House; Royal Priesthood; Sanctuary Class; Sons of Levi; Spirit Begotten; Spiritual Israel; Spiritual Sons)"
146.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/07 p. 31: “They do not believe that they necessarily have more holy spirit than their companions of the other sheep have; nor do they expect special treatment or claim that their partaking of the emblems places them above the appointed elders in the congregation”
147.Jump up ^ “United In Worship Of The Only True God” chap. 14 pp. 112-113 ‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’: “Spiritual Sons—How Do They Know? ... God’s spirit gives positive assurance of adoption as spiritual sons to baptized Christians who have received the heavenly calling.
148.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/1/98 p. 20 par. 7 The Other Sheep and the New Covenant
149.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/95 p. 11 par. 12 'There Will Be a Resurrection of the Righteous: “Men and women of old who exercised strong faith in Jehovah and his promises and remained faithful to the death were declared righteous by Jehovah on the basis of their faith, and they will without doubt share in the ‘resurrection of the righteous.’
150.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/15/06 p. 6 A Sure Guide to Happiness: “Acts 24:15 ... “There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” So even “the unrighteous,” many individuals who did not know and serve Jehovah, will get a future opportunity to gain God’s favor.”
151.Jump up ^ You Can Believe in a Paradise Earth The Watchtower November 15, 2003, p. 4.
152.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 3/15/06 p. 6 The Only Remedy!: “Some committed sins for which there is no forgiveness. They are not in Hades (mankind’s common grave) but in Gehenna, a symbolic place of eternal destruction. (Matthew 23:33)
153.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/95 p. 31 Questions From Readers: “In summary, we might remember “other sheep” as the broader term, encompassing all of God’s servants having the hope of living forever on earth. It includes the more limited category of sheeplike ones today who are being gathered as a “great crowd” with the hope of living right through the impending great tribulation”.
154.Jump up ^ "Christ’s Presence—What Does It Mean to You?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2008, page 21.
155.Jump up ^ "Maintain Your Sense of Urgency", The Watchtower, March 15, 2012, p. 18.
156.Jump up ^ "Jesus’ Coming or Jesus’ Presence—Which?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1996, p. 12.
157.Jump up ^ "Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2013, p. 6.
158.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 1, 1996, p6.
159.Jump up ^ "Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses say that God’s Kingdom was established in 1914?", Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 95-96.
160.Jump up ^ Gruss, Edmond C. (1972). The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. pp. 20–58. ISBN 0-87552-306-4.
161.Jump up ^ Let Your Kingdom Come, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1981, pp. 186-189 Appendix to Chapter 14.
162.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, pp. 217-218.
163.Jump up ^ The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1981, pg 86.
164.Jump up ^ True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1986, pp 81-84.
165.Jump up ^ "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world as a witness to all nations. And then the end shall come." - Matthew 24:14.
166.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, p11.
167.Jump up ^ Awake!, October 22, 1993, p. 11.
168.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 102-104.
169.Jump up ^ "Deliverance by God’s Kingdom Is at Hand!", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 15.
170.Jump up ^ Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 235-236.
171.Jump up ^ "Apocalypse—When?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1986, page 6.
172.Jump up ^ Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 286.
173.Jump up ^ "Strengthening Our Confidence in God's Righteousness", The Watchtower, August 15, 1998 p. 20
174.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1959, pp. 530-531 par. 15.
175.Jump up ^ Armageddon—A Happy Beginning Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
176.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 180.
177.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, p 6.
178.^ Jump up to: a b Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 186–187. ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
179.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988,p. 788.
180.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 2005, p. 20.
181.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, August 15, 2006, p. 31
182.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 2006, pp. 94,95.
183.^ Jump up to: a b Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 1, 1984, page 31.
184.^ Jump up to: a b c Holden 2002, pp. 150–170.
185.^ Jump up to: a b "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
186.^ Jump up to: a b c d e Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 1985, page 31, "Such ones willfully abandoning the Christian congregation thereby become part of the ‘antichrist.’ A person who had willfully and formally disassociated himself from the congregation would have matched that description. By deliberately repudiating God’s congregation and by renouncing the Christian way, he would have made himself an apostate. A loyal Christian would not have wanted to fellowship with an apostate ... Scripturally, a person who repudiated God’s congregation became more reprehensible than those in the world."
187.^ Jump up to: a b Reasoning From the Scriptures, pages 34-35.
188.Jump up ^ Pay Attention To Yourselves and to All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 94-95.
189.^ Jump up to: a b c "Remain Solid in the Faith", The Watchtower, August 1, 1980, pages 17-21.
190.Jump up ^ "At Which Table Are You Feeding", The Watchtower, July 1, 1994, pages 11-12.
191.Jump up ^ "Will You Heed Jehovah's Clear Warnings?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2011, page 16.
192.Jump up ^ Jerome Taylor, "War of words breaks out among Jehovah's Witnesses", The Independent, September 27, 2011.
193.Jump up ^ "Why So Many Christian Sects?" The Watchtower, March 15, 1975, page 167.
194.Jump up ^ "Search Through Me, Oh God," The Watchtower, October 1, 1993, page 19.
195.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 271–273
196.Jump up ^ Ronald Lawson, "Sect-State Relations: Accounting for the Differing Trajectories of Seventh-day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses", Sociology of Religion, 1995, 56:4 pg 369
197.Jump up ^ "Remain Without Spot From the World", The Watchtower, October 1, 1984, p. 17 par. 10.
198.Jump up ^ "Repudiate Valueless Things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 4.
199.Jump up ^ "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, pages 26-29.
200.^ Jump up to: a b Holden 2002, p. 135.
201.Jump up ^ "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, p. 26-31.
202.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 314–315.
203.Jump up ^ "Some Educational Opportunities Available", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 2011, Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, Inc., pages 5-6
204.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, p. 67.
Bibliography[edit]
Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
Penton, James M. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
Franz, Raymond (2002). Crisis of Conscience. Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-23-0.
Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. ISBN 0-914675-16-8.
Botting, Gary and Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press.
Botting, Gary (1993). Fundamental Freedoms and Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Calgary Press.
External links[edit]
Official Web Site of the Jehovah's Witnesses
 



Categories: Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses



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 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah%27s_Witnesses_beliefs











Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
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 This article relies on references to primary sources. Please add references to secondary or tertiary sources. (January 2012)
Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
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 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
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Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
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Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
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 e
   
Jehovah's Witnesses believe salvation is a free gift from God attained by being part of "God's organization" and putting faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. They do not believe in predestination or eternal security. They believe in different forms of resurrection for two groups of Christians. One group, the anointed, go to heaven while the other group, "the other sheep" or "the great crowd" will live forever on earth.



Contents  [hide]
1 Basis
2 The 'anointed'
3 The 'other sheep' and the 'great crowd'
4 See also
5 References
6 Bibliography

Basis[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach that salvation is possible only through Christ’s ransom sacrifice[1] and that individuals cannot be saved until they repent of their sins and call on the name of Jehovah.[2] Salvation is described as a free gift from God, but is said to be unattainable without good works that are prompted by faith. The works prove faith is genuine.[3][4] Preaching is said to be one of the works necessary for salvation, both of themselves and those to whom they preach.[5] They believe that people can be "saved" by identifying God's organization and serving God as a part of it.[6]
The Witnesses reject the doctrine of universal salvation,[7] as well as that of predestination or fate. They believe that all intelligent creatures are endowed with free will. They regard salvation to be a result of a person's own decisions, not of fate.[8] They also reject the concept of "once saved, always saved" (or "eternal security"), instead believing that one must remain faithful until the end to be saved.[9]
Regarding whether non-Witnesses will be "saved", they believe that Jesus has the responsibility of judging such ones, and that no human can judge for themselves who will be saved. Based on their interpretation of Acts 24:15, they believe there will be a resurrection of righteous and unrighteous people. They believe that non-Witnesses alive now may attain salvation if they "begin to serve God".[10][11]
The 'anointed'[edit]
Based on their understanding of scriptures such as Revelation 14:1-4, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that exactly 144,000 faithful Christians go to heaven to rule with Christ in the kingdom of God. They, with Jesus, will also perform priestly duties that will bring faithful mankind to perfect health and 'everlasting life'.[12]They believe that most of those are already in heaven, and that the "remnant" at Revelation 12:17 (KJV) refers to those remaining alive on earth who will be immediately resurrected to heaven when they die. The Witnesses understand Jesus’ words at John 3:3—"except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God"—to apply to the 144,000 who are "born again" as "anointed" sons of God in heaven.[13] They teach that the New Testament, which they refer to as the Christian Greek Scriptures, is primarily directed to the 144,000, and by extension, to those associated with them.[14] They believe that the terms "Israel of God" (Galatians 6:16), "little flock" (Luke 12:32), "New Jerusalem," and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" (Revelation 21:2,9) in the New Testament also refer to the same group of "anointed" Christians.[15][16][17]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that being 'anointed' involves a personal revelation by God's spirit which "gives positive assurance of adoption" to the individual alone.[18] Members who claim to be anointed are not given special treatment by other congregation members.[19] However, only those in the anointed class partake of the unleavened bread and wine at the yearly commemoration of Christ's death, or Memorial.
The 'other sheep' and the 'great crowd'[edit]
Watch Tower Society literature states that Jesus' use of the term "other sheep" at John 10:16 was intended to indicate that the majority of his followers were not part of the 144,000 and would have an earthly, rather than heavenly, hope.[20][21] In the resurrection, those who died faithful to God are included in the 'other sheep' and will receive the "resurrection of the righteous" ("just" KJV) mentioned in Acts 24:15.[22] Those who died without faithfully serving God will receive the "resurrection of the ... unrighteous" ("unjust" KJV). They will be given an opportunity to gain God's favor and join Jesus' 'other sheep' and live forever in an earthly paradise.[23][24] Individuals unfavorably judged by God are not resurrected, and are said to be in Gehenna, which they consider to be a metaphor for eternal destruction.[25] Those of the 'other sheep' who are alive today, some of whom survive through Armageddon without needing a resurrection, are referred to as the 'great crowd'.[26][27]
See also[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/1/00 p. 11 par. 6 Keep Your “Hope of Salvation” Bright!
2.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, March 15, 1989, p. 31 Call on Jehovah’s Name and Get Away Safe! “The Way of Salvation”
3.Jump up ^ "James Urges Clean and Active Worship,", The Watchtower 3/1/83 p. 13, "Faith that does not prompt us to do good works is not genuine and will not result in our salvation."
4.Jump up ^ "Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples", Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1979, p. 2.
5.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2006 pp. 28-29 par. 12
6.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/83 p. 12 You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth—But How?
7.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/60 p. 229 Does the Bible Teach What You Believe?
8.Jump up ^ Awake! 5/07 p. 13 Is Your Life Predestined?
9.Jump up ^ You Can Endure to the End The Watchtower October 1, 1999, p. 17.
10.Jump up ^ "Do You Feel That You Are the Only People Who Will Be Saved?".
11.Jump up ^ "Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Believe That They Are the Only Ones Who Will Be Saved?". The Watchtower: 28. 1 November 2008.
12.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand! chap. 29 p. 200 par. 8 "Singing the Triumphal New Song "
13.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/1/96 p. 10 Look to Jehovah for Comfort: “One of the main operations of God’s spirit upon first-century Christians was to anoint them as adopted spiritual sons of God and brothers of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 22) This is reserved for only 144,000 disciples of Christ. (Revelation 14:1, 3)”
14.Jump up ^ Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace” chap. 13 p. 110 par. 10 The “Prince of Peace” Turns to Those Outside the New Covenant
15.Jump up ^ Survivors Out of All the Nations, ©1984 Watch Tower, page 65
16.Jump up ^ "Congregation of God", Watchtower Publications Index 1930–1985, "CONGREGATION OF GOD (Also called 144,000; Anointed; Body of Christ; Bride of Christ; Chosen Ones; Elect; Holy Nation; Israel of God; Kingdom Class; Little Flock; New Creation; New Nation; Royal House; Royal Priesthood; Sanctuary Class; Sons of Levi; Spirit Begotten; Spiritual Israel; Spiritual Sons)"
17.Jump up ^ Chryssides, George D (2008). Historical Dictionary Of Jehovah's Witnesses. Scarecrow Press. pp. 3, 122,. ISBN 9780810860742.
18.Jump up ^ “United In Worship Of The Only True God” chap. 14 pp. 112-113 ‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’: “Spiritual Sons—How Do They Know? ... God’s spirit gives positive assurance of adoption as spiritual sons to baptized Christians who have received the heavenly calling.
19.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/07 p. 31: “They do not believe that they necessarily have more holy spirit than their companions of the other sheep have; nor do they expect special treatment or claim that their partaking of the emblems places them above the appointed elders in the congregation”
20.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/1/98 p. 20 par. 7 The Other Sheep and the New Covenant
21.Jump up ^ "Awake" 1/8/95 p. 27 Who Go to Heaven?
22.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/95 p. 11 par. 12 'There Will Be a Resurrection of the Righteous: “Men and women of old who exercised strong faith in Jehovah and his promises and remained faithful to the death were declared righteous by Jehovah on the basis of their faith, and they will without doubt share in the ‘resurrection of the righteous.’
23.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/15/06 p. 6 A Sure Guide to Happiness: “Acts 24:15 ... “There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” So even “the unrighteous,” many individuals who did not know and serve Jehovah, will get a future opportunity to gain God’s favor.”
24.Jump up ^ You Can Believe in a Paradise Earth The Watchtower November 15, 2003, p. 4.
25.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 3/15/06 p. 6 The Only Remedy!: “Some committed sins for which there is no forgiveness. They are not in Hades (mankind’s common grave) but in Gehenna, a symbolic place of eternal destruction. (Matthew 23:33)
26.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/95 p. 31 Questions From Readers: “In summary, we might remember “other sheep” as the broader term, encompassing all of God’s servants having the hope of living forever on earth. It includes the more limited category of sheeplike ones today who are being gathered as a “great crowd” with the hope of living right through the impending great tribulation”.
27.Jump up ^ Ankerberg, John (2003). Fast Facts on Jehovah's Witnesses. Harvest House Publisher. pp. 51–53. ISBN 9780736910811.
Bibliography[edit]
Chryssides, George D. Historical Dictionary of Jehovah's Witnessess. Lanham, Maryland: Scarecrow Press, 2008. See "Salvation," p. 122.
Penton, M. James. Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2nd ed., 1997. See Chapter 7, "Major Doctrines," pp. 184-210.
 



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Jehovah's Witnesses and salvation
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search



Question book-new.svg
 This article relies on references to primary sources. Please add references to secondary or tertiary sources. (January 2012)
Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
Jehovah's Witnesses believe salvation is a free gift from God attained by being part of "God's organization" and putting faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. They do not believe in predestination or eternal security. They believe in different forms of resurrection for two groups of Christians. One group, the anointed, go to heaven while the other group, "the other sheep" or "the great crowd" will live forever on earth.



Contents  [hide]
1 Basis
2 The 'anointed'
3 The 'other sheep' and the 'great crowd'
4 See also
5 References
6 Bibliography

Basis[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach that salvation is possible only through Christ’s ransom sacrifice[1] and that individuals cannot be saved until they repent of their sins and call on the name of Jehovah.[2] Salvation is described as a free gift from God, but is said to be unattainable without good works that are prompted by faith. The works prove faith is genuine.[3][4] Preaching is said to be one of the works necessary for salvation, both of themselves and those to whom they preach.[5] They believe that people can be "saved" by identifying God's organization and serving God as a part of it.[6]
The Witnesses reject the doctrine of universal salvation,[7] as well as that of predestination or fate. They believe that all intelligent creatures are endowed with free will. They regard salvation to be a result of a person's own decisions, not of fate.[8] They also reject the concept of "once saved, always saved" (or "eternal security"), instead believing that one must remain faithful until the end to be saved.[9]
Regarding whether non-Witnesses will be "saved", they believe that Jesus has the responsibility of judging such ones, and that no human can judge for themselves who will be saved. Based on their interpretation of Acts 24:15, they believe there will be a resurrection of righteous and unrighteous people. They believe that non-Witnesses alive now may attain salvation if they "begin to serve God".[10][11]
The 'anointed'[edit]
Based on their understanding of scriptures such as Revelation 14:1-4, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that exactly 144,000 faithful Christians go to heaven to rule with Christ in the kingdom of God. They, with Jesus, will also perform priestly duties that will bring faithful mankind to perfect health and 'everlasting life'.[12]They believe that most of those are already in heaven, and that the "remnant" at Revelation 12:17 (KJV) refers to those remaining alive on earth who will be immediately resurrected to heaven when they die. The Witnesses understand Jesus’ words at John 3:3—"except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God"—to apply to the 144,000 who are "born again" as "anointed" sons of God in heaven.[13] They teach that the New Testament, which they refer to as the Christian Greek Scriptures, is primarily directed to the 144,000, and by extension, to those associated with them.[14] They believe that the terms "Israel of God" (Galatians 6:16), "little flock" (Luke 12:32), "New Jerusalem," and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" (Revelation 21:2,9) in the New Testament also refer to the same group of "anointed" Christians.[15][16][17]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that being 'anointed' involves a personal revelation by God's spirit which "gives positive assurance of adoption" to the individual alone.[18] Members who claim to be anointed are not given special treatment by other congregation members.[19] However, only those in the anointed class partake of the unleavened bread and wine at the yearly commemoration of Christ's death, or Memorial.
The 'other sheep' and the 'great crowd'[edit]
Watch Tower Society literature states that Jesus' use of the term "other sheep" at John 10:16 was intended to indicate that the majority of his followers were not part of the 144,000 and would have an earthly, rather than heavenly, hope.[20][21] In the resurrection, those who died faithful to God are included in the 'other sheep' and will receive the "resurrection of the righteous" ("just" KJV) mentioned in Acts 24:15.[22] Those who died without faithfully serving God will receive the "resurrection of the ... unrighteous" ("unjust" KJV). They will be given an opportunity to gain God's favor and join Jesus' 'other sheep' and live forever in an earthly paradise.[23][24] Individuals unfavorably judged by God are not resurrected, and are said to be in Gehenna, which they consider to be a metaphor for eternal destruction.[25] Those of the 'other sheep' who are alive today, some of whom survive through Armageddon without needing a resurrection, are referred to as the 'great crowd'.[26][27]
See also[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/1/00 p. 11 par. 6 Keep Your “Hope of Salvation” Bright!
2.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, March 15, 1989, p. 31 Call on Jehovah’s Name and Get Away Safe! “The Way of Salvation”
3.Jump up ^ "James Urges Clean and Active Worship,", The Watchtower 3/1/83 p. 13, "Faith that does not prompt us to do good works is not genuine and will not result in our salvation."
4.Jump up ^ "Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples", Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1979, p. 2.
5.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2006 pp. 28-29 par. 12
6.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/83 p. 12 You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth—But How?
7.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/60 p. 229 Does the Bible Teach What You Believe?
8.Jump up ^ Awake! 5/07 p. 13 Is Your Life Predestined?
9.Jump up ^ You Can Endure to the End The Watchtower October 1, 1999, p. 17.
10.Jump up ^ "Do You Feel That You Are the Only People Who Will Be Saved?".
11.Jump up ^ "Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Believe That They Are the Only Ones Who Will Be Saved?". The Watchtower: 28. 1 November 2008.
12.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand! chap. 29 p. 200 par. 8 "Singing the Triumphal New Song "
13.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/1/96 p. 10 Look to Jehovah for Comfort: “One of the main operations of God’s spirit upon first-century Christians was to anoint them as adopted spiritual sons of God and brothers of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 22) This is reserved for only 144,000 disciples of Christ. (Revelation 14:1, 3)”
14.Jump up ^ Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace” chap. 13 p. 110 par. 10 The “Prince of Peace” Turns to Those Outside the New Covenant
15.Jump up ^ Survivors Out of All the Nations, ©1984 Watch Tower, page 65
16.Jump up ^ "Congregation of God", Watchtower Publications Index 1930–1985, "CONGREGATION OF GOD (Also called 144,000; Anointed; Body of Christ; Bride of Christ; Chosen Ones; Elect; Holy Nation; Israel of God; Kingdom Class; Little Flock; New Creation; New Nation; Royal House; Royal Priesthood; Sanctuary Class; Sons of Levi; Spirit Begotten; Spiritual Israel; Spiritual Sons)"
17.Jump up ^ Chryssides, George D (2008). Historical Dictionary Of Jehovah's Witnesses. Scarecrow Press. pp. 3, 122,. ISBN 9780810860742.
18.Jump up ^ “United In Worship Of The Only True God” chap. 14 pp. 112-113 ‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’: “Spiritual Sons—How Do They Know? ... God’s spirit gives positive assurance of adoption as spiritual sons to baptized Christians who have received the heavenly calling.
19.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/07 p. 31: “They do not believe that they necessarily have more holy spirit than their companions of the other sheep have; nor do they expect special treatment or claim that their partaking of the emblems places them above the appointed elders in the congregation”
20.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/1/98 p. 20 par. 7 The Other Sheep and the New Covenant
21.Jump up ^ "Awake" 1/8/95 p. 27 Who Go to Heaven?
22.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 2/15/95 p. 11 par. 12 'There Will Be a Resurrection of the Righteous: “Men and women of old who exercised strong faith in Jehovah and his promises and remained faithful to the death were declared righteous by Jehovah on the basis of their faith, and they will without doubt share in the ‘resurrection of the righteous.’
23.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/15/06 p. 6 A Sure Guide to Happiness: “Acts 24:15 ... “There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” So even “the unrighteous,” many individuals who did not know and serve Jehovah, will get a future opportunity to gain God’s favor.”
24.Jump up ^ You Can Believe in a Paradise Earth The Watchtower November 15, 2003, p. 4.
25.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 3/15/06 p. 6 The Only Remedy!: “Some committed sins for which there is no forgiveness. They are not in Hades (mankind’s common grave) but in Gehenna, a symbolic place of eternal destruction. (Matthew 23:33)
26.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/95 p. 31 Questions From Readers: “In summary, we might remember “other sheep” as the broader term, encompassing all of God’s servants having the hope of living forever on earth. It includes the more limited category of sheeplike ones today who are being gathered as a “great crowd” with the hope of living right through the impending great tribulation”.
27.Jump up ^ Ankerberg, John (2003). Fast Facts on Jehovah's Witnesses. Harvest House Publisher. pp. 51–53. ISBN 9780736910811.
Bibliography[edit]
Chryssides, George D. Historical Dictionary of Jehovah's Witnessess. Lanham, Maryland: Scarecrow Press, 2008. See "Salvation," p. 122.
Penton, M. James. Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2nd ed., 1997. See Chapter 7, "Major Doctrines," pp. 184-210.
 



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Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search




 This article's lead section may not adequately summarize key points of its contents. Please consider expanding the lead to provide an accessible overview of all important aspects of the article. (December 2011)
Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
 Practices
 
Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
Jehovah's Witnesses employ various levels of congregational discipline as formal controls administered by congregation elders. Guilt and repentance are determined by a tribunal of elders, and hearings concerning what they term "serious sin" are performed by formal judicial committees. A variety of controls can be enforced, from restriction of duties performed in the congregation to excommunication, known as disfellowshipping, and shunning by the congregation. Members who are disfellowshipped have an opportunity to regain membership. The practice of disfellowshipping has been criticized by many non-members and ex-members.



Contents  [hide]
1 Correction
2 Discipline involving non-judicial situations 2.1 Local needs
2.2 Shepherding calls
2.3 Withheld recommendations or assignments
2.4 Loss of "special privileges"
2.5 Limited "privileges of service"
2.6 Marking
3 Discipline involving "serious sin" 3.1 List of "serious sins"
3.2 Procedures
3.3 Judicial committee
3.4 Reproof
3.5 Disfellowshipping 3.5.1 Shunning
3.5.2 Reinstatement
3.5.3 Legality

4 Unbaptized publishers
5 Critical view
6 References

Correction[edit]
Non-judicial situations involve actions that are considered sinful or simply regrettable but are not considered to be of sufficient gravity to necessitate a judicial committee, and cannot result in disfellowshipping from the congregation; specific action by congregation elders is not administered in such situations, but counsel (or correction) may be provided by a mature Witness in addition to self-discipline and family discipline.[1] Elders may also give recommendations or warnings to members in non-judicial situations.
If an active baptized Witness is considered to have committed a "serious sin" for which the sinner must demonstrate formal repentance, correction (or, "discipline") is administered by the congregation’s body of elders. Such situations usually involve a "judicial committee" of three or more elders.[2]
Discipline involving non-judicial situations[edit]
At the elders' discretion, "non-judicial" situations may involve discipline of one or more of several types, presented here in escalating seriousness.
Local needs[edit]
At conventions and assemblies, and about once each month at a local Service Meeting, a short talk regarding "local needs" is presented.[3] An elder addresses matters that are relevant to the local congregation, with instructions outlining the course of action considered appropriate. No specific individuals are identified during the talk, but the talk may relate to a matter for which a member has recently been "reproved". At times, some temporary policy may be announced that might be seen as disciplinary; for example, it may be that an additional attendant is assigned outside a Kingdom Hall to discourage children from running on the sidewalk.[4]
Shepherding calls[edit]
Personal "shepherding visits" are intended to encourage members of the congregation, though may also include counsel and correction, then or on a subsequent visit.[5][6] Two elders (or an elder and a ministerial servant) may schedule and perform a particular shepherding visit on their own or at the direction of the body of elders.[7]
Withheld recommendations or assignments[edit]
The body of elders may withhold its recommendation for a member to serve in a new position of responsibility, though still permitting existing responsibilities.[8]
For example, a ministerial servant who consistently seems insufficiently prepared for his meeting parts may have such assignments withheld for a time, even though he may continue serving as a ministerial servant or in some other "special privilege of service".[9]
Loss of "special privileges"[edit]
Elders, ministerial servants, pioneers, or other appointed Witnesses can lose their "special privileges of service".[10][11] For example, an elder may be removed or choose to step aside voluntarily from his position if members of his household are not in "good standing".[12] After resignation or removal from an appointed position, an announcement is made during the congregation's Service Meeting indicating that the person is "no longer serving", without elaboration.[13]
Limited "privileges of service"[edit]
An active Jehovah's Witness may have their congregational "privileges of service" limited even without having committed a serious sin. For example, the body of elders may feel that a member wronged others by some investment scheme which was not necessarily fraudulent.[14] While Witnesses sometimes refer to field ministry, after-meeting cleanup, and other responsibilities as "privileges", the term "privileges of service" often implies a specific range of assignments assisting elders and ministerial servants with meeting demonstrations and other responsibilities.[15] Such limitations are usually temporary.[16]
Marking[edit]
Members who persist in a course considered scripturally wrong after repeated counsel by elders,[17] but who are not guilty of something for which they could be disfellowshipped,[17] can be "marked", based on Jehovah's Witnesses' interpretation of 2 Thessalonians 3:14. Though not shunned, "marked" individuals are looked upon as bad association and social interaction outside of formal worship settings is generally curtailed. This action is intended to "shame" the person into following a particular course of action.[17] "Marking" is indicated by means of a talk given at the Service Meeting outlining the shameful course, but without explicitly naming any particular individual. Members who know whose actions are being discussed may then consider the individual "marked".
Discipline involving "serious sin"[edit]
List of "serious sins"[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses consider many actions to be "serious sins", for which baptized Witnesses are subject to disfellowshipping or formal reproof. Actions for which a member can be disfellowshipped include: abortion,[18] adultery, apostasy,[19] bestiality, blood transfusions,[20] "brazen conduct" or "loose conduct",[21][22] drug abuse,[23] drunkenness, extortion,[24] fornication, fraud,[25] gambling,[24] greed,[24] homosexual activity, idolatry, incest, interfaith activity,[26] lying,[27] manslaughter, murder, "perverted sex relations",[28] polygamy,[29] pornography,[30] reviling, sexual abuse,[31] slander,[25] spiritism, theft, and use of tobacco.[23][32][33]
Procedures[edit]
Evidence for actions that can result in congregational discipline is obtained by voluntary confession to the elders or by witnesses of the violation. A minimum of two witnesses is required to establish guilt, based on their understanding of Deuteronomy 17:6 and Matthew 18:16, unless the person confesses voluntarily.[34] Members are instructed to report serious sins committed by others members.[35] Failure to report a serious sin of another member is viewed as sharing in the sins of others, a sin before God.[36] Witnesses are instructed that pledges of confidentiality may be broken to report what they believe to be transgressions.[37]
A congregation's body of elders considers confessions or credible allegations of serious sin, and decides whether a judicial committee will be formed to address the matter.[38] A judicial committee, usually consisting of three elders, investigates the details of the alleged sin further. The committee arranges a formal judicial hearing to determine the circumstances of the sin, whether the accused is repentant, and whether disciplinary actions will be taken.[39][40][41]
In certain situations, a body of elders may handle a situation involving "serious sin" by a baptized Witness without a judicial committee:
Minor or newly baptized - A minor or newly baptized Witness might commit one or two acts of "serious sin" involving tobacco or overdrinking;[42][43] repercussions as for 'non-judicial' situations may still be imposed.
Repentance - The body of elders may believe the sinner's repentance has been established and accepted. For example, if a member committed a "serious sin" several years ago, had formally repented in prayer, and the sin did not involve scheming.[44] Witnesses are strongly discouraged from waiting years to resolve such matters;[45] even if years have passed since the serious sin, it is typical for a judicial committee to be formed, and there may still be repercussions as for ‘non-judicial’ situations.
Judicial abeyance - Elders may become aware of a "serious sin" committed by a baptized Witness who has been inactive for some time and is not perceived as a Jehovah’s Witness. If the alleged sinner is not associating with active Witnesses, the elders may indefinitely postpone a judicial committee and formal hearing unless and until the individual renews their association with the congregation.[46]
Judicial committee[edit]
A person accused of a serious sin is informed of the allegations and invited to attend a judicial committee meeting. The individual is permitted to bring witnesses who can speak in their defense; observers are not allowed,[47] and the hearing is held privately even if the accused individual requests that it be heard openly so all may witness the evidence.[48][49] Recording devices are not permitted at the hearing.[47] If the accused repeatedly fails to attend an arranged hearing, the committee will proceed but will not make a decision until evidence and testimony by witnesses are considered.[47]
The committee takes the role of prosecutor, judge and jury when handling its cases.[50] After the hearing is opened with a prayer, the accused is invited to make a personal statement. If there is no admission of guilt, the individual is informed of the source of the charges and witnesses are presented one at a time to give evidence. Witnesses do not remain present for the entire hearing. Once all the evidence is presented, the accused and all witnesses are dismissed and the committee reviews the evidence and the attitude of the accused.[47]
The committee may determine that there was no "serious sin", or that mitigating circumstances absolve the accused individual. The committee may then proceed with discipline such as is described for 'non-judicial' situations.[51] Alternatively, the committee may decide that a serious sin was committed, in which case, the committee gives verbal admonitions and gauges the individual's attitude and repentance. The committee then decides whether discipline will involve formal reproof or disfellowshipping.
Reproof[edit]
Reproof involves actions for which a person could be disfellowshipped, and is said to be an effort to 'reach the heart' and convince a person of the need to hate the sanctioned actions[52][53] and repent.[54] Reproof is considered sufficient if the individual is deemed repentant.[55][56] Reproof is given before all who are aware of the transgression. If the conduct is known only to the individual and the judicial committee, reproof is given privately. If the sin is known by a small number, they would be invited by the elders, and reproof would be given before the sinner and those with knowledge of the sin. If the action is known generally by the entire congregation or the wider community, an announcement is made that the person "has been reproved".[57] A related local needs talk may be given, separately to the announcement, without naming anyone.[58]
In all cases of reproof, restrictions are imposed,[59] typically prohibiting the individual from sharing in meeting parts, commenting during meetings, and giving group prayers. A reproved Witness cannot enroll as a pioneer or auxiliary pioneer for at least one year after reproof is given.[60][61]
Disfellowshipping[edit]
All members are expected to abide by the beliefs and moral standards of Jehovah's Witnesses, and serious violations of these requirements can result in disfellowshipping if not deemed repentant; the term is used in reference to both the act of congregational expulsion (similar to excommunication) and subsequent shunning.[62] When a judicial committee decides that a baptized Witness has committed a serious sin and is unrepentant, the person is disfellowshipped. A person can appeal if they believe that a serious error in judgment has been made. Requests for appeal must be made in writing and within seven days of the decision of the judicial committee. If the decision is not appealed, an announcement is made at the Service Meeting that the named individual "is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses", without any further explanation. Shunning starts immediately after the announcement is made.[63]
If a baptized Witness teaches contrary to Witness doctrines, it is considered apostasy and grounds for disfellowshipping. A 1981 letter to overseers—reproduced in a book by former Governing Body member Raymond Franz—directed that a member who "persists in believing other doctrine", even without promoting such beliefs, may also be subject to disfellowshipping.[64] Elders usually try to reason with the individual before such action is taken.[65] If a person believes that a teaching should be adjusted or changed, he is encouraged "to be patient and wait on Jehovah for change".[66]
All members are encouraged to have a detailed understanding of what is expected and the consequences of wrongdoing.[67] The stated purpose of congregation discipline is to help erring ones be restored to spiritual health, to help uphold the organization's reputation, and to keep the congregation clean from wrong conduct.[68]
Shunning[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses shun disfellowshipped individuals, a process Watch Tower Society publications describe as "withholding fellowship".[69] Their shunning policy is based on their interpretation of scriptures such as 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; Matthew 18:15-17; and 2 John 9-11.[70][71]
Witnesses state that avoiding interaction with disfellowshipped former adherents helps to:
avoid reproach on God's name and organization by indicating that violations of the Bible's standards in their ranks are not tolerated;
keep the congregation free of possible corrosive influences;[72] and
convince the disfellowshipped individual to re-evaluate their course of action, repent and rejoin the religion.[73]
Shunning is also practised when a member formally resigns membership or is deemed to indicate, by their actions, a statement, or their association with another religion, that they do not wish to be known as a Witness. Such individuals are said to have disassociated,[74][75] and are described by the Watch Tower Society as "lawless" in a spiritual sense.[76] In either case ("disfellowshipping" or "disassociating"), an announcement is made at the Kingdom Hall that "[full name] is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses." This announcement is made at the congregation the person attends.[77] Congregation members are not informed whether a person is being shunned due to "disfellowshipping" or "disassociation", nor on what grounds. The Watchtower states that "apostates are “mentally diseased,” and they seek to infect others with their disloyal teachings. (1 Timothy 6:3, 4 [NWT]).";[78][79] some have stated that this applies to all individuals who leave the organization.[80][81]
Failure to adhere to the directions on shunning is itself considered a serious offense. Members who continue to speak to or associate with a disfellowshipped or disassociated person are said to be sharing in their "wicked works"[82] and may themselves be punished by disfellowshipping.[83] Exceptions are made in some cases such as business relations and immediate family household situations.[69] If a disfellowshipped person is living in the same home with other baptized family members, religious matters are not discussed, with the exception of minors, for whose training parents are still responsible.[84][85] Disfellowshipped family members outside the home are shunned.[86]
Disfellowshipped individuals can continue attending meetings held at the Kingdom Hall, though they are shunned by the congregation. Attending meetings while being shunned is a requirement for eventual reinstatement.[87]
Reinstatement[edit]
Disfellowshipped individuals may be reinstated into the congregation if they are considered repentant of their previous actions and attitude. When a disassociated or disfellowshipped individual requests reinstatement, a judicial committee, (the committee originally involved, if available) seeks to determine whether the person has repented.[88] Such individuals must demonstrate that they no longer practice the conduct for which they were expelled from the congregation, as well as submission to the religion's regulations.[89][90][91] Individuals disfellowshipped for actions no longer considered serious sins, such as organ transplants, are not automatically reinstated. Meeting attendance while being shunned is considered by the organization as an important step toward eventual reinstatement.[92] Once a decision is made to reinstate, a brief announcement is made to the congregation that the disfellowshipped member is once again one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Elders are instructed to make an attempt each year to remind disfellowshipped ones of the steps they can take to qualify for reinstatement.[69][93] No specific period of time is prescribed before this can happen, however the Watch Tower Society suggests a period of "perhaps many months, a year, or longer."[94] In 1974, the Watch Tower Society stated that about one third of those disfellowshipped eventually return to the group, based on figures gathered from 1963 to 1973.[95]
Legality[edit]
In June 1987, the United States Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit upheld the Witnesses' right to shun those who fail to live by the group's standards and doctrines, upholding the ruling of a lower court, finding that "shunning is a practice engaged in by Jehovah's Witnesses pursuant to their interpretation of canonical text, and we are not free to reinterpret that text … The defendants are entitled to the free exercise of their religious beliefs … The members of the Church [she] decided to abandon have concluded that they no longer want to associate with her. We hold that they are free to make that choice."[96][97]
Unbaptized publishers[edit]
An unbaptized individual who has previously been approved to share in Jehovah's Witnesses' formal ministry or participate in their Theocratic Ministry School, but who subsequently behaves in a manner considered inappropriate may lose privileges, such as commenting at meetings, receiving assignments, or even accompanying the congregation in the public ministry.[98]
If an unbaptized individual is deemed unrepentant of actions for which baptized members might be disfellowshipped, an announcement would be made that the person "is no longer a publisher of the good news."[99] Such individuals were previously shunned, but formal restrictions are no longer imposed on unbaptized individuals, though association is generally curtailed. The elders might privately warn individuals in the congregation if the unbaptized person is considered to pose "an unusual threat".[100]
Critical view[edit]
The only way to officially leave Jehovah's Witnesses is to disassociate or be disfellowshipped, and both entail the same set of prohibitions and penalties, with no provision for continued normal association. Sociologist Andrew Holden has claimed that fear of family break-up or loss causes people who might otherwise freely leave the religion to remain members.[101] Jehovah's Witnesses state that disfellowshipping is a scripturally documented method to protect the congregation from the influence of those who practice serious wrongdoing.[102] Critics contend that the judicial process itself, due to its private and nearly autonomous nature, directly contradicts the precedent found in the Bible and the organization's own teachings and can be used in an arbitrary manner if there is consensus among just a few to abuse their authority.[103]
According to Raymond Franz, a letter dated September 1, 1980, from the Watch Tower Society to all circuit and district overseers advised that a member who "merely disagrees in thought with any of the Watch Tower Society's teachings is committing apostasy and is liable for disfellowshipping."[104] The letter states that one does not have to "promote" different doctrines to be an apostate, adding that elders need to "discern between one who is a trouble-making apostate and a Christian who becomes weak in the faith and has doubts."[104] Watch Tower Society publications indicate that some type of action is required for a member to be disfellowshipped, rather than a 'disagreement in thought'.[105]
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ "Speak What "Is Good for Building Up"", "Keep Yourselves in God’s Love", page 142-143
2.Jump up ^ "Maintaining the Peace and Cleanness of the Congregation", Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, page 151
3.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, Service meeting schedule, 1992-2009
4.Jump up ^ "Question Box", Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1972, page 4
5.Jump up ^ "Do You Accept Jehovah’s Help?", The Watchtower, December 15, 2004, page 21
6.Jump up ^ "Charisma—Praise to Man or Glory to God?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1998, page 27
7.Jump up ^ "How Christian Shepherds Serve You", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 27
8.Jump up ^ "Announcements", Our Kingdom Ministry, June 2005, page 3
9.Jump up ^ "Guidelines for School Overseers", Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education, ©2001 Watch Tower, page 284, subheading "Making Assignments"
10.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses use the term "special privileges of service" for positions requiring formal appointment or approval, such as elder, ministerial servant, pioneer, Bethel (branch) service, and schools such as Gilead and Ministerial Training School; "Make Room for It", Our Kingdom Ministry, April 2003, page 1
11.Jump up ^ Draw Close To Jehovah chap. 26 pp. 268-269 par. 22
12.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 10/15/96 p. 21 par. 7 Father and Elder—Fulfilling Both Roles
13.Jump up ^ "Announcements", Our Kingdom Ministry, February 1991, page 7
14.Jump up ^ "Let Discernment Safeguard You", The Watchtower, March 15, 1997, page 19
15.Jump up ^ "Let Your Advancement Be Manifest", Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook, page 191
16.Jump up ^ "Are You Reaching Out?", The Watchtower, September 1, 1990, page 23
17.^ Jump up to: a b c The Watchtower 4/15/85 p. 31 Questions From Readers
18.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers". The Watchtower: 12. 15 April 2009. "Understanding that timeless truth has helped millions of Christians to repudiate the practice of abortion, seeing it as a serious sin against God."
19.Jump up ^ "Apostasy" includes publicly challenging the religion's teachings
20.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. pp. 182–184. "Consistent with that understanding of matters, beginning in 1961 any who ignored the divine requirement, accepted blood transfusions, and manifested an unrepentant attitude were disfellowshipped from the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses."
21.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, pages 60, "Rather than relating to bad conduct of a somewhat petty or minor nature, "brazen conduct" describes acts that reflect an attitude that betrays disrespect, disregard, or even contempt for divine standards, laws, and authority."
22.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers: What does the expression 'loose conduct' as found at Galatians 5:19 mean?". (September 15, 1973). The Watchtower, p. 574, "It is not limited to acts of sexual immorality. And, rather than relating to bad conduct of a somewhat petty or minor nature, it apparently describes acts that reflect a brazen attitude, one that betrays disrespect, disregard or even contempt for standards, laws and authority. The ‘looseness' of the conduct, therefore, is not due principally to weakness but results from an attitude of disrespect, insolence or shamelessness."
23.^ Jump up to: a b "You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy". The Watchtower: 123. 15 February 1976. "Jehovah has brought to the attention of his “holy” people the need to disfellowship those dedicated, baptized Christians who refuse to break and give up the drug and tobacco habits."
24.^ Jump up to: a b c Shepherd the Flock of God, page 69
25.^ Jump up to: a b Shepherd the Flock of God, p. 67-68
26.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, page 65
27.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, June 15, 2009, p. 18, "Speak Truth With Your Neighbor".
28.Jump up ^ "Honor Godly Marriage!", The Watchtower, March 15, 1983, p. 31
29.Jump up ^ "Adjust the Bible to Polygamy?". The Watchtower: 10. 1 July 1985. "polygamy is not to be condoned for any Christian regardless of nationality or circumstance. ... This leaves no room for polygamy among true Christians."
30.Jump up ^ Watchtower 7/15/06 p. 31 Questions From Readers; "But not all viewing of pornography calls for a hearing before a judicial committee. … However, suppose a Christian has secretly viewed abhorrent, sexually degrading pornography for years and has done everything possible to conceal this sin. Such pornography might feature gang rape, bondage, sadistic torture, the brutalizing of women, or even child pornography. When others become aware of his conduct, he is deeply ashamed. He has not been brazen, but the elders may determine that he has ‘given himself over’ to this filthy habit and has practiced ‘uncleanness with greediness,’ that is, gross uncleanness. A judicial committee would be formed because gross uncleanness is involved. The wrongdoer would be disfellowshipped if he did not display godly repentance"
31.Jump up ^ "Prevention in the Home". Awake!: 10. 8 October 1993. "Similarly the Christian congregation today enforces strong laws against all forms of sexual abuse. Anyone who sexually abuses a child risks being disfellowshipped, put out of the congregation."
32.Jump up ^ "Personally Benefiting from the Bible’s Laws and Principles". The Watchtower: 404–405. 1 July 1970. "In the Christian congregation there are definite laws against adultery, incest, homosexuality, bestiality, murder, stealing and other things, any of which, when committed by a Christian, would bring reproach from the world against the congregation. These things the Bible has put under the authority of the congregation, that is, it is required to take some action."
33.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures 1. p. 788. "Some of the offenses that could merit disfellowshipping from the Christian congregation are fornication, adultery, homosexuality, greed, extortion, thievery, lying, drunkenness, reviling, spiritism, murder, idolatry, apostasy, and the causing of divisions in the congregation."
34.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock, p. 111
35.Jump up ^ August 15, 1997 Watchtower, p. 27
36.Jump up ^ Insight in the Scriptures, Volume 2, p. 969.
37.Jump up ^ "A Time to Speak--When?" Watchtower, September 1, 1987, pp. 12-15
38.Jump up ^ "New Arrangements for Congregation Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, September 1977, pages 5-6
39.Jump up ^ ""Gifts in Men" to Care for Jehovah’s Sheep", The Watchtower, June 1, 1999, page 14
40.Jump up ^ "Elders, Judge With Righteousness", The Watchtower, July 1, 1992, page 16
41.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshipping—A Loving Provision?", The Watchtower, July 15, 1995, page 25
42.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Sheep Need Tender Care", The Watchtower, January 15, 1996, page 18
43.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, July 15, 2006, pages 30-31"
44.Jump up ^ "Question Box", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 1972, page 8
45.Jump up ^ "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", June 1, 1992, page 19
46.Jump up ^ ""A Time to Speak"—When?", The Watchtower, September 1, 1987, page 14
47.^ Jump up to: a b c d Pay Attention to Yourselves and All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1991, page 110-120.
48.Jump up ^ Raymond Franz, In Search of Christian Freedom, Commentary Press, 2007, page 321.
49.Jump up ^ It is unclear whether accused individuals have always had the option to call witnesses. The judicial committee hearing accusations that resulted in the disfellowshipping of Canadian Witness James Penton in February 1981 refused Penton's request to have a lawyer present and to call witnesses. See James A. Beverley, Crisis of Allegiance (Welch Publishing, 1986, page 71).
50.Jump up ^ M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, 1997, page 89.
51.Jump up ^ "New Arrangements for Congregation Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, September 1977, page 6
52.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 12/1/76 p. 723 par. 15 How Wise Reprovers Aid Erring Ones
53.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/1/81 p. 23 par. 9 Repentance Leading Back to God
54.Jump up ^ "Imitate Jehovah—Exercise Justice and Righteousness", The Watchtower, August 1, 1998, page 17
55.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/15/87 p. 13 par. 13
56.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/1/81 p. 26 par. 23 Repentance Leading Back to God
57.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 12/1/76 p. 733 par. 14 Giving Reproof "Before All Onlookers"
58.Jump up ^ '"Maintaining the Peace and Cleanness of the Congregation", Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, ©2005 Watch Tower, page 151, "Elders will use reasonableness and discernment in determining whether a particular situation is sufficiently serious and disturbing to require a warning talk. This talk will not name the disorderly one. However, those who are aware of the situation described in the talk will take heed"
59.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will 2005, p. 152.
60.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
61.Jump up ^ "Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline", The Watchtower, November 15, 2006, page 30, "During the time that an individual who has been judicially reproved is healing spiritually, ...it would be beneficial for the repentant one to listen rather than comment at meetings. The elders may arrange for someone to have a Bible study with him to strengthen him where he is weak so that he may again become “healthy in faith.” (Titus 2:2) All of this is done in love and is not intended to punish the wrongdoer."
62.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 22, "Thus "disfellowshiping" is what Jehovah’s Witnesses appropriately call the expelling and subsequent shunning of such an unrepentant wrongdoer. [emphasis added]"
63.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock. 1991. pp. 121–122.
64.Jump up ^ To All Circuit and District Overseers, September 1, 1980, "Keep in mind that to be disfellowshipped, an apostate does not have to be a promoter of apostate views. ... if a baptized Christian abandons the teachings of Jehovah, as presented by the faithful and discreet slave, and persists in believing other doctrine despite Scriptural reproof, then he is apostatizing. ... [If] he continues to believe the apostate ideas and rejects what he has been provided through the 'slave class,' then appropriate judicial action should be taken. ... [If] something reasonably substantial comes to the attention of the elders along this line, it would be appropriate to make a kindly, discreet inquiry so as to protect the flock." Letter reproduced in Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz, 1983, chapter 11.
65.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/1/98 p. 19 par. 17 "Put Up a Hard Fight for the Faith"!
66.Jump up ^ "Show a Waiting Attitude!" The Watchtower September 1, 2000 page 11. Retrieved on 2013-02-02.
67.Jump up ^ How Baptism Can Save Us The Watchtower Jan 15, 1989, p. 17.
68.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/06 p. 27 par. 6 Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline
69.^ Jump up to: a b c "Beliefs—Frequently Asked Questions", Authorized Site of the Office of Public Information of Jehovah's Witnesses, As Retrieved 2009-08-28, "Do you shun former members? ... If, however, someone unrepentantly practices serious sins, such as drunkenness, stealing or adultery, he will be disfellowshipped and such an individual is avoided by former fellow-worshipers. ... The marriage relationship and normal family affections and dealings can continue. ... Disfellowshipped individuals may continue to attend religious services and, if they wish, they may receive spiritual counsel from the elders with a view to their being restored. They are always welcome to return to the faith [emphasis retained from source]"
70.Jump up ^ "Keep Yourselves in God's Love", page 35.
71.Jump up ^ "You May Gain Your Brother", The Watchtower, October 15, 1999, page 22.
72.Jump up ^ Jealous for the Pure Worship of Jehovah, The Watchtower September 15, 1995, p. 11.
73.Jump up ^ The Bible's Viewpoint - Why Disfellowshipping Is a Loving Arrangement Awake! September 8, 1996, p. 26-27.
74.Jump up ^ Questions from readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1986, page 31.
75.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
76.Jump up ^ "Do You Hate Lawlessness?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2011, page 31, "Do we share Jesus’ view of those who have become set in their lawless course? We need to give thought to these questions: ‘Would I choose to associate regularly with someone who has been disfellowshipped or who has disassociated himself from the Christian congregation? What if that one is a close relative who no longer lives at home?’ Such a situation can be a real test of our loyalty to God."
77.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, p. 104.
78.Jump up ^ "Will You Heed Jehovah's Clear Warnings?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2011, pages 15 and
79.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 163. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
80.Jump up ^ Taylor, Jerome (27 September 2011). "War of words breaks out among Jehovah's Witnesses". The Independent.
81.Jump up ^ "Jehovah's Witnesses church likens defectors to 'contagious, deadly disease'", Sunday Herald Sun, page 39, October 2, 2011.
82.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and all the Flock, Unit 5(a) p. 103. The section cites 2 John 11 ("For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.")
83.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984), The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses, University of Toronto Press, p. 91, ISBN 0-8020-6545-7
84.Jump up ^ "How to Treat a Disfellowshipped Person", "Keep Yourselves in God’s Love", ©2008 Watch Tower, page 207-208, "We do not have spiritual or social fellowship with disfellowshipped ones. ...In some instances, the disfellowshipped family member may still be living in the same home as part of the immediate household. Since his being disfellowshipped does not sever the family ties, normal day-to-day family activities and dealings may continue. Yet, by his course, the individual has chosen to break the spiritual bond between him and his believing family. So loyal family members can no longer have spiritual fellowship with him. [emphasis added]"
85.Jump up ^ "How Can You Help a 'Prodigal' Child?". Watchtower: 16–17. October 1, 2001.
86.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It". Watchtower: 26. September 15, 1981. "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum"
87.Jump up ^ "Safeguard Your Heart". Awake!: 28. 8 July 1970. "And if he seeks reinstatement, he must show his sincerity by attending congregation meetings with no one speaking to him, all the while giving evidence of repentance."
88.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/91 p. 21 par. 6
89.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/1/98 p. 16 par. 16 Imitate Jehovah—Exercise Justice and Righteousness
90.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/98 p. 15 par. 10 " True repentance comes from the heart, from the depths of our being"
91.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/06 p. 27 par. 9 Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline
92.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/15/92 p. 31 A Step on the Way Back
93.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/15/82 p. 31 A Step on the Way Back
94.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God. Watch Tower Society. p. 119.
95.Jump up ^ Divine Mercy Points the Way Back for Erring Ones The Watchtower Aug 1, 1974, p. 466 par. 24.
96.Jump up ^ "Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit", The Watchtower April 15, 1988, pages 26-30, Online
97.Jump up ^ "Religion: The Right To Shun", Time magazine, June 29, 1987, Online, "The Constitution's guarantee of "free exercise," said the appeals panel, applies even to unpopular groups and practices"
98.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 18 par. 14 Helping Others to Worship God
99.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 19 par. 17 Helping Others to Worship God
100.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 19 par. 19 Helping Others to Worship God
101.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 150, 156–157. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
102.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom chap. 15 p. 232 "Development of the Organization Structure"
103.Jump up ^ Raymond Franz, In Search Of Christian Freedom, pp.374–390. Franz claims the Watch Tower organization ignores the "clear principle of openness in the conduct of judicial proceedings" and cites the Watch Tower Society publication, Insight on the Scriptures, Vol 1, p. 518, which states that "publicity that would be afforded any trial at the gate would tend to influence the judges toward care and justice in the trial proceedings and in their decisions".
104.^ Jump up to: a b Franz, Raymond. Crisis of Conscience. 4th ed. Atlanta: Commentary Press, 2004. pp. 341-2. ISBN 0-914675-24-9.
105.Jump up ^ The Watchtower March 15, 1986 p.15 paragraph 17 "Do Not Be Quickly Shaken From Your Reason"; The Watchtower October 15, 1986 p. 31 Questions From Readers; The Watchtower October 1, 1989 p. 19 paragraph 14 Maintain Your Faith and Spiritual Health; Pay Attention to Yourselves and all the Flock p. 94-95; The Watchtower May 1, 2000 p.12 par. 19 Firmly Uphold Godly Teaching; The Watchtower September 1, 2000 p. 13 par. 10 Show a Waiting Attitude!; The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30-31 Questions From Readers.
 



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Jehovah's Witnesses and congregational discipline
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 This article's lead section may not adequately summarize key points of its contents. Please consider expanding the lead to provide an accessible overview of all important aspects of the article. (December 2011)
Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

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Jehovah's Witnesses employ various levels of congregational discipline as formal controls administered by congregation elders. Guilt and repentance are determined by a tribunal of elders, and hearings concerning what they term "serious sin" are performed by formal judicial committees. A variety of controls can be enforced, from restriction of duties performed in the congregation to excommunication, known as disfellowshipping, and shunning by the congregation. Members who are disfellowshipped have an opportunity to regain membership. The practice of disfellowshipping has been criticized by many non-members and ex-members.



Contents  [hide]
1 Correction
2 Discipline involving non-judicial situations 2.1 Local needs
2.2 Shepherding calls
2.3 Withheld recommendations or assignments
2.4 Loss of "special privileges"
2.5 Limited "privileges of service"
2.6 Marking
3 Discipline involving "serious sin" 3.1 List of "serious sins"
3.2 Procedures
3.3 Judicial committee
3.4 Reproof
3.5 Disfellowshipping 3.5.1 Shunning
3.5.2 Reinstatement
3.5.3 Legality

4 Unbaptized publishers
5 Critical view
6 References

Correction[edit]
Non-judicial situations involve actions that are considered sinful or simply regrettable but are not considered to be of sufficient gravity to necessitate a judicial committee, and cannot result in disfellowshipping from the congregation; specific action by congregation elders is not administered in such situations, but counsel (or correction) may be provided by a mature Witness in addition to self-discipline and family discipline.[1] Elders may also give recommendations or warnings to members in non-judicial situations.
If an active baptized Witness is considered to have committed a "serious sin" for which the sinner must demonstrate formal repentance, correction (or, "discipline") is administered by the congregation’s body of elders. Such situations usually involve a "judicial committee" of three or more elders.[2]
Discipline involving non-judicial situations[edit]
At the elders' discretion, "non-judicial" situations may involve discipline of one or more of several types, presented here in escalating seriousness.
Local needs[edit]
At conventions and assemblies, and about once each month at a local Service Meeting, a short talk regarding "local needs" is presented.[3] An elder addresses matters that are relevant to the local congregation, with instructions outlining the course of action considered appropriate. No specific individuals are identified during the talk, but the talk may relate to a matter for which a member has recently been "reproved". At times, some temporary policy may be announced that might be seen as disciplinary; for example, it may be that an additional attendant is assigned outside a Kingdom Hall to discourage children from running on the sidewalk.[4]
Shepherding calls[edit]
Personal "shepherding visits" are intended to encourage members of the congregation, though may also include counsel and correction, then or on a subsequent visit.[5][6] Two elders (or an elder and a ministerial servant) may schedule and perform a particular shepherding visit on their own or at the direction of the body of elders.[7]
Withheld recommendations or assignments[edit]
The body of elders may withhold its recommendation for a member to serve in a new position of responsibility, though still permitting existing responsibilities.[8]
For example, a ministerial servant who consistently seems insufficiently prepared for his meeting parts may have such assignments withheld for a time, even though he may continue serving as a ministerial servant or in some other "special privilege of service".[9]
Loss of "special privileges"[edit]
Elders, ministerial servants, pioneers, or other appointed Witnesses can lose their "special privileges of service".[10][11] For example, an elder may be removed or choose to step aside voluntarily from his position if members of his household are not in "good standing".[12] After resignation or removal from an appointed position, an announcement is made during the congregation's Service Meeting indicating that the person is "no longer serving", without elaboration.[13]
Limited "privileges of service"[edit]
An active Jehovah's Witness may have their congregational "privileges of service" limited even without having committed a serious sin. For example, the body of elders may feel that a member wronged others by some investment scheme which was not necessarily fraudulent.[14] While Witnesses sometimes refer to field ministry, after-meeting cleanup, and other responsibilities as "privileges", the term "privileges of service" often implies a specific range of assignments assisting elders and ministerial servants with meeting demonstrations and other responsibilities.[15] Such limitations are usually temporary.[16]
Marking[edit]
Members who persist in a course considered scripturally wrong after repeated counsel by elders,[17] but who are not guilty of something for which they could be disfellowshipped,[17] can be "marked", based on Jehovah's Witnesses' interpretation of 2 Thessalonians 3:14. Though not shunned, "marked" individuals are looked upon as bad association and social interaction outside of formal worship settings is generally curtailed. This action is intended to "shame" the person into following a particular course of action.[17] "Marking" is indicated by means of a talk given at the Service Meeting outlining the shameful course, but without explicitly naming any particular individual. Members who know whose actions are being discussed may then consider the individual "marked".
Discipline involving "serious sin"[edit]
List of "serious sins"[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses consider many actions to be "serious sins", for which baptized Witnesses are subject to disfellowshipping or formal reproof. Actions for which a member can be disfellowshipped include: abortion,[18] adultery, apostasy,[19] bestiality, blood transfusions,[20] "brazen conduct" or "loose conduct",[21][22] drug abuse,[23] drunkenness, extortion,[24] fornication, fraud,[25] gambling,[24] greed,[24] homosexual activity, idolatry, incest, interfaith activity,[26] lying,[27] manslaughter, murder, "perverted sex relations",[28] polygamy,[29] pornography,[30] reviling, sexual abuse,[31] slander,[25] spiritism, theft, and use of tobacco.[23][32][33]
Procedures[edit]
Evidence for actions that can result in congregational discipline is obtained by voluntary confession to the elders or by witnesses of the violation. A minimum of two witnesses is required to establish guilt, based on their understanding of Deuteronomy 17:6 and Matthew 18:16, unless the person confesses voluntarily.[34] Members are instructed to report serious sins committed by others members.[35] Failure to report a serious sin of another member is viewed as sharing in the sins of others, a sin before God.[36] Witnesses are instructed that pledges of confidentiality may be broken to report what they believe to be transgressions.[37]
A congregation's body of elders considers confessions or credible allegations of serious sin, and decides whether a judicial committee will be formed to address the matter.[38] A judicial committee, usually consisting of three elders, investigates the details of the alleged sin further. The committee arranges a formal judicial hearing to determine the circumstances of the sin, whether the accused is repentant, and whether disciplinary actions will be taken.[39][40][41]
In certain situations, a body of elders may handle a situation involving "serious sin" by a baptized Witness without a judicial committee:
Minor or newly baptized - A minor or newly baptized Witness might commit one or two acts of "serious sin" involving tobacco or overdrinking;[42][43] repercussions as for 'non-judicial' situations may still be imposed.
Repentance - The body of elders may believe the sinner's repentance has been established and accepted. For example, if a member committed a "serious sin" several years ago, had formally repented in prayer, and the sin did not involve scheming.[44] Witnesses are strongly discouraged from waiting years to resolve such matters;[45] even if years have passed since the serious sin, it is typical for a judicial committee to be formed, and there may still be repercussions as for ‘non-judicial’ situations.
Judicial abeyance - Elders may become aware of a "serious sin" committed by a baptized Witness who has been inactive for some time and is not perceived as a Jehovah’s Witness. If the alleged sinner is not associating with active Witnesses, the elders may indefinitely postpone a judicial committee and formal hearing unless and until the individual renews their association with the congregation.[46]
Judicial committee[edit]
A person accused of a serious sin is informed of the allegations and invited to attend a judicial committee meeting. The individual is permitted to bring witnesses who can speak in their defense; observers are not allowed,[47] and the hearing is held privately even if the accused individual requests that it be heard openly so all may witness the evidence.[48][49] Recording devices are not permitted at the hearing.[47] If the accused repeatedly fails to attend an arranged hearing, the committee will proceed but will not make a decision until evidence and testimony by witnesses are considered.[47]
The committee takes the role of prosecutor, judge and jury when handling its cases.[50] After the hearing is opened with a prayer, the accused is invited to make a personal statement. If there is no admission of guilt, the individual is informed of the source of the charges and witnesses are presented one at a time to give evidence. Witnesses do not remain present for the entire hearing. Once all the evidence is presented, the accused and all witnesses are dismissed and the committee reviews the evidence and the attitude of the accused.[47]
The committee may determine that there was no "serious sin", or that mitigating circumstances absolve the accused individual. The committee may then proceed with discipline such as is described for 'non-judicial' situations.[51] Alternatively, the committee may decide that a serious sin was committed, in which case, the committee gives verbal admonitions and gauges the individual's attitude and repentance. The committee then decides whether discipline will involve formal reproof or disfellowshipping.
Reproof[edit]
Reproof involves actions for which a person could be disfellowshipped, and is said to be an effort to 'reach the heart' and convince a person of the need to hate the sanctioned actions[52][53] and repent.[54] Reproof is considered sufficient if the individual is deemed repentant.[55][56] Reproof is given before all who are aware of the transgression. If the conduct is known only to the individual and the judicial committee, reproof is given privately. If the sin is known by a small number, they would be invited by the elders, and reproof would be given before the sinner and those with knowledge of the sin. If the action is known generally by the entire congregation or the wider community, an announcement is made that the person "has been reproved".[57] A related local needs talk may be given, separately to the announcement, without naming anyone.[58]
In all cases of reproof, restrictions are imposed,[59] typically prohibiting the individual from sharing in meeting parts, commenting during meetings, and giving group prayers. A reproved Witness cannot enroll as a pioneer or auxiliary pioneer for at least one year after reproof is given.[60][61]
Disfellowshipping[edit]
All members are expected to abide by the beliefs and moral standards of Jehovah's Witnesses, and serious violations of these requirements can result in disfellowshipping if not deemed repentant; the term is used in reference to both the act of congregational expulsion (similar to excommunication) and subsequent shunning.[62] When a judicial committee decides that a baptized Witness has committed a serious sin and is unrepentant, the person is disfellowshipped. A person can appeal if they believe that a serious error in judgment has been made. Requests for appeal must be made in writing and within seven days of the decision of the judicial committee. If the decision is not appealed, an announcement is made at the Service Meeting that the named individual "is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses", without any further explanation. Shunning starts immediately after the announcement is made.[63]
If a baptized Witness teaches contrary to Witness doctrines, it is considered apostasy and grounds for disfellowshipping. A 1981 letter to overseers—reproduced in a book by former Governing Body member Raymond Franz—directed that a member who "persists in believing other doctrine", even without promoting such beliefs, may also be subject to disfellowshipping.[64] Elders usually try to reason with the individual before such action is taken.[65] If a person believes that a teaching should be adjusted or changed, he is encouraged "to be patient and wait on Jehovah for change".[66]
All members are encouraged to have a detailed understanding of what is expected and the consequences of wrongdoing.[67] The stated purpose of congregation discipline is to help erring ones be restored to spiritual health, to help uphold the organization's reputation, and to keep the congregation clean from wrong conduct.[68]
Shunning[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses shun disfellowshipped individuals, a process Watch Tower Society publications describe as "withholding fellowship".[69] Their shunning policy is based on their interpretation of scriptures such as 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; Matthew 18:15-17; and 2 John 9-11.[70][71]
Witnesses state that avoiding interaction with disfellowshipped former adherents helps to:
avoid reproach on God's name and organization by indicating that violations of the Bible's standards in their ranks are not tolerated;
keep the congregation free of possible corrosive influences;[72] and
convince the disfellowshipped individual to re-evaluate their course of action, repent and rejoin the religion.[73]
Shunning is also practised when a member formally resigns membership or is deemed to indicate, by their actions, a statement, or their association with another religion, that they do not wish to be known as a Witness. Such individuals are said to have disassociated,[74][75] and are described by the Watch Tower Society as "lawless" in a spiritual sense.[76] In either case ("disfellowshipping" or "disassociating"), an announcement is made at the Kingdom Hall that "[full name] is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses." This announcement is made at the congregation the person attends.[77] Congregation members are not informed whether a person is being shunned due to "disfellowshipping" or "disassociation", nor on what grounds. The Watchtower states that "apostates are “mentally diseased,” and they seek to infect others with their disloyal teachings. (1 Timothy 6:3, 4 [NWT]).";[78][79] some have stated that this applies to all individuals who leave the organization.[80][81]
Failure to adhere to the directions on shunning is itself considered a serious offense. Members who continue to speak to or associate with a disfellowshipped or disassociated person are said to be sharing in their "wicked works"[82] and may themselves be punished by disfellowshipping.[83] Exceptions are made in some cases such as business relations and immediate family household situations.[69] If a disfellowshipped person is living in the same home with other baptized family members, religious matters are not discussed, with the exception of minors, for whose training parents are still responsible.[84][85] Disfellowshipped family members outside the home are shunned.[86]
Disfellowshipped individuals can continue attending meetings held at the Kingdom Hall, though they are shunned by the congregation. Attending meetings while being shunned is a requirement for eventual reinstatement.[87]
Reinstatement[edit]
Disfellowshipped individuals may be reinstated into the congregation if they are considered repentant of their previous actions and attitude. When a disassociated or disfellowshipped individual requests reinstatement, a judicial committee, (the committee originally involved, if available) seeks to determine whether the person has repented.[88] Such individuals must demonstrate that they no longer practice the conduct for which they were expelled from the congregation, as well as submission to the religion's regulations.[89][90][91] Individuals disfellowshipped for actions no longer considered serious sins, such as organ transplants, are not automatically reinstated. Meeting attendance while being shunned is considered by the organization as an important step toward eventual reinstatement.[92] Once a decision is made to reinstate, a brief announcement is made to the congregation that the disfellowshipped member is once again one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Elders are instructed to make an attempt each year to remind disfellowshipped ones of the steps they can take to qualify for reinstatement.[69][93] No specific period of time is prescribed before this can happen, however the Watch Tower Society suggests a period of "perhaps many months, a year, or longer."[94] In 1974, the Watch Tower Society stated that about one third of those disfellowshipped eventually return to the group, based on figures gathered from 1963 to 1973.[95]
Legality[edit]
In June 1987, the United States Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit upheld the Witnesses' right to shun those who fail to live by the group's standards and doctrines, upholding the ruling of a lower court, finding that "shunning is a practice engaged in by Jehovah's Witnesses pursuant to their interpretation of canonical text, and we are not free to reinterpret that text … The defendants are entitled to the free exercise of their religious beliefs … The members of the Church [she] decided to abandon have concluded that they no longer want to associate with her. We hold that they are free to make that choice."[96][97]
Unbaptized publishers[edit]
An unbaptized individual who has previously been approved to share in Jehovah's Witnesses' formal ministry or participate in their Theocratic Ministry School, but who subsequently behaves in a manner considered inappropriate may lose privileges, such as commenting at meetings, receiving assignments, or even accompanying the congregation in the public ministry.[98]
If an unbaptized individual is deemed unrepentant of actions for which baptized members might be disfellowshipped, an announcement would be made that the person "is no longer a publisher of the good news."[99] Such individuals were previously shunned, but formal restrictions are no longer imposed on unbaptized individuals, though association is generally curtailed. The elders might privately warn individuals in the congregation if the unbaptized person is considered to pose "an unusual threat".[100]
Critical view[edit]
The only way to officially leave Jehovah's Witnesses is to disassociate or be disfellowshipped, and both entail the same set of prohibitions and penalties, with no provision for continued normal association. Sociologist Andrew Holden has claimed that fear of family break-up or loss causes people who might otherwise freely leave the religion to remain members.[101] Jehovah's Witnesses state that disfellowshipping is a scripturally documented method to protect the congregation from the influence of those who practice serious wrongdoing.[102] Critics contend that the judicial process itself, due to its private and nearly autonomous nature, directly contradicts the precedent found in the Bible and the organization's own teachings and can be used in an arbitrary manner if there is consensus among just a few to abuse their authority.[103]
According to Raymond Franz, a letter dated September 1, 1980, from the Watch Tower Society to all circuit and district overseers advised that a member who "merely disagrees in thought with any of the Watch Tower Society's teachings is committing apostasy and is liable for disfellowshipping."[104] The letter states that one does not have to "promote" different doctrines to be an apostate, adding that elders need to "discern between one who is a trouble-making apostate and a Christian who becomes weak in the faith and has doubts."[104] Watch Tower Society publications indicate that some type of action is required for a member to be disfellowshipped, rather than a 'disagreement in thought'.[105]
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ "Speak What "Is Good for Building Up"", "Keep Yourselves in God’s Love", page 142-143
2.Jump up ^ "Maintaining the Peace and Cleanness of the Congregation", Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, page 151
3.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry, Service meeting schedule, 1992-2009
4.Jump up ^ "Question Box", Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1972, page 4
5.Jump up ^ "Do You Accept Jehovah’s Help?", The Watchtower, December 15, 2004, page 21
6.Jump up ^ "Charisma—Praise to Man or Glory to God?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1998, page 27
7.Jump up ^ "How Christian Shepherds Serve You", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 27
8.Jump up ^ "Announcements", Our Kingdom Ministry, June 2005, page 3
9.Jump up ^ "Guidelines for School Overseers", Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education, ©2001 Watch Tower, page 284, subheading "Making Assignments"
10.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses use the term "special privileges of service" for positions requiring formal appointment or approval, such as elder, ministerial servant, pioneer, Bethel (branch) service, and schools such as Gilead and Ministerial Training School; "Make Room for It", Our Kingdom Ministry, April 2003, page 1
11.Jump up ^ Draw Close To Jehovah chap. 26 pp. 268-269 par. 22
12.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 10/15/96 p. 21 par. 7 Father and Elder—Fulfilling Both Roles
13.Jump up ^ "Announcements", Our Kingdom Ministry, February 1991, page 7
14.Jump up ^ "Let Discernment Safeguard You", The Watchtower, March 15, 1997, page 19
15.Jump up ^ "Let Your Advancement Be Manifest", Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook, page 191
16.Jump up ^ "Are You Reaching Out?", The Watchtower, September 1, 1990, page 23
17.^ Jump up to: a b c The Watchtower 4/15/85 p. 31 Questions From Readers
18.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers". The Watchtower: 12. 15 April 2009. "Understanding that timeless truth has helped millions of Christians to repudiate the practice of abortion, seeing it as a serious sin against God."
19.Jump up ^ "Apostasy" includes publicly challenging the religion's teachings
20.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. pp. 182–184. "Consistent with that understanding of matters, beginning in 1961 any who ignored the divine requirement, accepted blood transfusions, and manifested an unrepentant attitude were disfellowshipped from the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses."
21.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, pages 60, "Rather than relating to bad conduct of a somewhat petty or minor nature, "brazen conduct" describes acts that reflect an attitude that betrays disrespect, disregard, or even contempt for divine standards, laws, and authority."
22.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers: What does the expression 'loose conduct' as found at Galatians 5:19 mean?". (September 15, 1973). The Watchtower, p. 574, "It is not limited to acts of sexual immorality. And, rather than relating to bad conduct of a somewhat petty or minor nature, it apparently describes acts that reflect a brazen attitude, one that betrays disrespect, disregard or even contempt for standards, laws and authority. The ‘looseness' of the conduct, therefore, is not due principally to weakness but results from an attitude of disrespect, insolence or shamelessness."
23.^ Jump up to: a b "You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy". The Watchtower: 123. 15 February 1976. "Jehovah has brought to the attention of his “holy” people the need to disfellowship those dedicated, baptized Christians who refuse to break and give up the drug and tobacco habits."
24.^ Jump up to: a b c Shepherd the Flock of God, page 69
25.^ Jump up to: a b Shepherd the Flock of God, p. 67-68
26.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, page 65
27.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, June 15, 2009, p. 18, "Speak Truth With Your Neighbor".
28.Jump up ^ "Honor Godly Marriage!", The Watchtower, March 15, 1983, p. 31
29.Jump up ^ "Adjust the Bible to Polygamy?". The Watchtower: 10. 1 July 1985. "polygamy is not to be condoned for any Christian regardless of nationality or circumstance. ... This leaves no room for polygamy among true Christians."
30.Jump up ^ Watchtower 7/15/06 p. 31 Questions From Readers; "But not all viewing of pornography calls for a hearing before a judicial committee. … However, suppose a Christian has secretly viewed abhorrent, sexually degrading pornography for years and has done everything possible to conceal this sin. Such pornography might feature gang rape, bondage, sadistic torture, the brutalizing of women, or even child pornography. When others become aware of his conduct, he is deeply ashamed. He has not been brazen, but the elders may determine that he has ‘given himself over’ to this filthy habit and has practiced ‘uncleanness with greediness,’ that is, gross uncleanness. A judicial committee would be formed because gross uncleanness is involved. The wrongdoer would be disfellowshipped if he did not display godly repentance"
31.Jump up ^ "Prevention in the Home". Awake!: 10. 8 October 1993. "Similarly the Christian congregation today enforces strong laws against all forms of sexual abuse. Anyone who sexually abuses a child risks being disfellowshipped, put out of the congregation."
32.Jump up ^ "Personally Benefiting from the Bible’s Laws and Principles". The Watchtower: 404–405. 1 July 1970. "In the Christian congregation there are definite laws against adultery, incest, homosexuality, bestiality, murder, stealing and other things, any of which, when committed by a Christian, would bring reproach from the world against the congregation. These things the Bible has put under the authority of the congregation, that is, it is required to take some action."
33.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures 1. p. 788. "Some of the offenses that could merit disfellowshipping from the Christian congregation are fornication, adultery, homosexuality, greed, extortion, thievery, lying, drunkenness, reviling, spiritism, murder, idolatry, apostasy, and the causing of divisions in the congregation."
34.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock, p. 111
35.Jump up ^ August 15, 1997 Watchtower, p. 27
36.Jump up ^ Insight in the Scriptures, Volume 2, p. 969.
37.Jump up ^ "A Time to Speak--When?" Watchtower, September 1, 1987, pp. 12-15
38.Jump up ^ "New Arrangements for Congregation Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, September 1977, pages 5-6
39.Jump up ^ ""Gifts in Men" to Care for Jehovah’s Sheep", The Watchtower, June 1, 1999, page 14
40.Jump up ^ "Elders, Judge With Righteousness", The Watchtower, July 1, 1992, page 16
41.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshipping—A Loving Provision?", The Watchtower, July 15, 1995, page 25
42.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Sheep Need Tender Care", The Watchtower, January 15, 1996, page 18
43.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, July 15, 2006, pages 30-31"
44.Jump up ^ "Question Box", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 1972, page 8
45.Jump up ^ "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", June 1, 1992, page 19
46.Jump up ^ ""A Time to Speak"—When?", The Watchtower, September 1, 1987, page 14
47.^ Jump up to: a b c d Pay Attention to Yourselves and All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1991, page 110-120.
48.Jump up ^ Raymond Franz, In Search of Christian Freedom, Commentary Press, 2007, page 321.
49.Jump up ^ It is unclear whether accused individuals have always had the option to call witnesses. The judicial committee hearing accusations that resulted in the disfellowshipping of Canadian Witness James Penton in February 1981 refused Penton's request to have a lawyer present and to call witnesses. See James A. Beverley, Crisis of Allegiance (Welch Publishing, 1986, page 71).
50.Jump up ^ M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, 1997, page 89.
51.Jump up ^ "New Arrangements for Congregation Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, September 1977, page 6
52.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 12/1/76 p. 723 par. 15 How Wise Reprovers Aid Erring Ones
53.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/1/81 p. 23 par. 9 Repentance Leading Back to God
54.Jump up ^ "Imitate Jehovah—Exercise Justice and Righteousness", The Watchtower, August 1, 1998, page 17
55.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/15/87 p. 13 par. 13
56.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 9/1/81 p. 26 par. 23 Repentance Leading Back to God
57.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 12/1/76 p. 733 par. 14 Giving Reproof "Before All Onlookers"
58.Jump up ^ '"Maintaining the Peace and Cleanness of the Congregation", Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, ©2005 Watch Tower, page 151, "Elders will use reasonableness and discernment in determining whether a particular situation is sufficiently serious and disturbing to require a warning talk. This talk will not name the disorderly one. However, those who are aware of the situation described in the talk will take heed"
59.Jump up ^ Organized to Do Jehovah's Will 2005, p. 152.
60.Jump up ^ Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
61.Jump up ^ "Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline", The Watchtower, November 15, 2006, page 30, "During the time that an individual who has been judicially reproved is healing spiritually, ...it would be beneficial for the repentant one to listen rather than comment at meetings. The elders may arrange for someone to have a Bible study with him to strengthen him where he is weak so that he may again become “healthy in faith.” (Titus 2:2) All of this is done in love and is not intended to punish the wrongdoer."
62.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 22, "Thus "disfellowshiping" is what Jehovah’s Witnesses appropriately call the expelling and subsequent shunning of such an unrepentant wrongdoer. [emphasis added]"
63.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock. 1991. pp. 121–122.
64.Jump up ^ To All Circuit and District Overseers, September 1, 1980, "Keep in mind that to be disfellowshipped, an apostate does not have to be a promoter of apostate views. ... if a baptized Christian abandons the teachings of Jehovah, as presented by the faithful and discreet slave, and persists in believing other doctrine despite Scriptural reproof, then he is apostatizing. ... [If] he continues to believe the apostate ideas and rejects what he has been provided through the 'slave class,' then appropriate judicial action should be taken. ... [If] something reasonably substantial comes to the attention of the elders along this line, it would be appropriate to make a kindly, discreet inquiry so as to protect the flock." Letter reproduced in Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz, 1983, chapter 11.
65.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 6/1/98 p. 19 par. 17 "Put Up a Hard Fight for the Faith"!
66.Jump up ^ "Show a Waiting Attitude!" The Watchtower September 1, 2000 page 11. Retrieved on 2013-02-02.
67.Jump up ^ How Baptism Can Save Us The Watchtower Jan 15, 1989, p. 17.
68.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/06 p. 27 par. 6 Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline
69.^ Jump up to: a b c "Beliefs—Frequently Asked Questions", Authorized Site of the Office of Public Information of Jehovah's Witnesses, As Retrieved 2009-08-28, "Do you shun former members? ... If, however, someone unrepentantly practices serious sins, such as drunkenness, stealing or adultery, he will be disfellowshipped and such an individual is avoided by former fellow-worshipers. ... The marriage relationship and normal family affections and dealings can continue. ... Disfellowshipped individuals may continue to attend religious services and, if they wish, they may receive spiritual counsel from the elders with a view to their being restored. They are always welcome to return to the faith [emphasis retained from source]"
70.Jump up ^ "Keep Yourselves in God's Love", page 35.
71.Jump up ^ "You May Gain Your Brother", The Watchtower, October 15, 1999, page 22.
72.Jump up ^ Jealous for the Pure Worship of Jehovah, The Watchtower September 15, 1995, p. 11.
73.Jump up ^ The Bible's Viewpoint - Why Disfellowshipping Is a Loving Arrangement Awake! September 8, 1996, p. 26-27.
74.Jump up ^ Questions from readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1986, page 31.
75.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
76.Jump up ^ "Do You Hate Lawlessness?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2011, page 31, "Do we share Jesus’ view of those who have become set in their lawless course? We need to give thought to these questions: ‘Would I choose to associate regularly with someone who has been disfellowshipped or who has disassociated himself from the Christian congregation? What if that one is a close relative who no longer lives at home?’ Such a situation can be a real test of our loyalty to God."
77.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God, p. 104.
78.Jump up ^ "Will You Heed Jehovah's Clear Warnings?", The Watchtower, July 15, 2011, pages 15 and
79.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 163. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
80.Jump up ^ Taylor, Jerome (27 September 2011). "War of words breaks out among Jehovah's Witnesses". The Independent.
81.Jump up ^ "Jehovah's Witnesses church likens defectors to 'contagious, deadly disease'", Sunday Herald Sun, page 39, October 2, 2011.
82.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Yourselves and all the Flock, Unit 5(a) p. 103. The section cites 2 John 11 ("For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.")
83.Jump up ^ Botting, Heather; Gary Botting (1984), The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses, University of Toronto Press, p. 91, ISBN 0-8020-6545-7
84.Jump up ^ "How to Treat a Disfellowshipped Person", "Keep Yourselves in God’s Love", ©2008 Watch Tower, page 207-208, "We do not have spiritual or social fellowship with disfellowshipped ones. ...In some instances, the disfellowshipped family member may still be living in the same home as part of the immediate household. Since his being disfellowshipped does not sever the family ties, normal day-to-day family activities and dealings may continue. Yet, by his course, the individual has chosen to break the spiritual bond between him and his believing family. So loyal family members can no longer have spiritual fellowship with him. [emphasis added]"
85.Jump up ^ "How Can You Help a 'Prodigal' Child?". Watchtower: 16–17. October 1, 2001.
86.Jump up ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It". Watchtower: 26. September 15, 1981. "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum"
87.Jump up ^ "Safeguard Your Heart". Awake!: 28. 8 July 1970. "And if he seeks reinstatement, he must show his sincerity by attending congregation meetings with no one speaking to him, all the while giving evidence of repentance."
88.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 4/15/91 p. 21 par. 6
89.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/1/98 p. 16 par. 16 Imitate Jehovah—Exercise Justice and Righteousness
90.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 5/1/98 p. 15 par. 10 " True repentance comes from the heart, from the depths of our being"
91.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/06 p. 27 par. 9 Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline
92.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/15/92 p. 31 A Step on the Way Back
93.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 8/15/82 p. 31 A Step on the Way Back
94.Jump up ^ Shepherd the Flock of God. Watch Tower Society. p. 119.
95.Jump up ^ Divine Mercy Points the Way Back for Erring Ones The Watchtower Aug 1, 1974, p. 466 par. 24.
96.Jump up ^ "Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit", The Watchtower April 15, 1988, pages 26-30, Online
97.Jump up ^ "Religion: The Right To Shun", Time magazine, June 29, 1987, Online, "The Constitution's guarantee of "free exercise," said the appeals panel, applies even to unpopular groups and practices"
98.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 18 par. 14 Helping Others to Worship God
99.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 19 par. 17 Helping Others to Worship God
100.Jump up ^ The Watchtower 11/15/88 p. 19 par. 19 Helping Others to Worship God
101.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 150, 156–157. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
102.Jump up ^ Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom chap. 15 p. 232 "Development of the Organization Structure"
103.Jump up ^ Raymond Franz, In Search Of Christian Freedom, pp.374–390. Franz claims the Watch Tower organization ignores the "clear principle of openness in the conduct of judicial proceedings" and cites the Watch Tower Society publication, Insight on the Scriptures, Vol 1, p. 518, which states that "publicity that would be afforded any trial at the gate would tend to influence the judges toward care and justice in the trial proceedings and in their decisions".
104.^ Jump up to: a b Franz, Raymond. Crisis of Conscience. 4th ed. Atlanta: Commentary Press, 2004. pp. 341-2. ISBN 0-914675-24-9.
105.Jump up ^ The Watchtower March 15, 1986 p.15 paragraph 17 "Do Not Be Quickly Shaken From Your Reason"; The Watchtower October 15, 1986 p. 31 Questions From Readers; The Watchtower October 1, 1989 p. 19 paragraph 14 Maintain Your Faith and Spiritual Health; Pay Attention to Yourselves and all the Flock p. 94-95; The Watchtower May 1, 2000 p.12 par. 19 Firmly Uphold Godly Teaching; The Watchtower September 1, 2000 p. 13 par. 10 Show a Waiting Attitude!; The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30-31 Questions From Readers.
 



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Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

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The 144,000
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Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


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Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


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The doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses have developed since publication of The Watchtower magazine began in 1879. Early doctrines were based on interpretations of the Bible by Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society founder Charles Taze Russell, then added to, altered or discarded by his successors, Joseph Rutherford and Nathan Knorr. Since 1976, doctrinal changes have been made at closed meetings of the religion's Governing Body,[1] whose decisions are described as "God's progressive revelations"[2] to the faithful and discreet slave.[3][4] These teachings are disseminated through The Watchtower, and at conventions and congregation meetings. Most members of the religion outside the Governing Body play no role in the development of doctrines[5] and are expected to adhere to all those decided at Brooklyn headquarters.[6][7][8] Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to welcome changes to their religion's doctrine, regarding such "adjustments" as "new light" or "new understanding" from God and proving that they are on the "path of the righteous".[9][10]



Contents  [hide]
1 Method of doctrinal development
2 Watch Tower Society founding doctrines 2.1 Millennialist teachings
3 Timeline of doctrinal changes 3.1 Doctrines unchanged since 1879
3.2 1880–1889
3.3 1890–1899
3.4 1900–1909
3.5 1910–1919
3.6 1920–1929
3.7 1930–1939
3.8 1940–1949
3.9 1950–1959
3.10 1960–1969
3.11 1970–1979
3.12 1980–1989
3.13 1990-1999
3.14 2000–2009
3.15 2010–2019
4 Criticism
5 See also
6 References
7 Bibliography

Method of doctrinal development[edit]
Some core beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses have remained unchanged throughout the religion's history. Certain doctrines, particularly relating to biblical chronology, were based on what Russell called a "venerable tradition" that he conceded was not directly confirmed by facts or scripture, but "based on faith".[11][12] Watch Tower publications claim that doctrinal changes and refinements result from a process of progressive revelation, in which God gradually reveals his will and purpose.[13][14][15][16] Watch Tower literature has suggested such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study,[17] the guidance of holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels.[18] Rutherford spoke of spiritual "lightning flashes in the temple",[19] the Society claims its doctrine of the "great crowd" and "other sheep" were "revealed" to "God’s earthly servants" in 1935,[20][21] and Witness literature has also described sudden changes in doctrines as "flashes of light" given by God through his holy spirit.[22] A 1930 publication claimed God used "invisible deputies" and "invisible angels" to pass his "messages" to The Watchtower,[23][24] although The Watchtower told Witnesses it was not necessary for them to understand how this took place.[25] A 1973 policy change to disfellowship tobacco users was explained as a decision that "Jehovah has brought to the attention of his 'holy' people".[26]
Watch Tower publications often cite Proverbs 4:18, "The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established" (NWT) when explaining the need to change doctrines.[27] The organization's earlier literature has included claims that its predictions about dates such as 1925 were "indisputable",[28] "absolutely and unqualifiedly correct"[29] and bearing "the stamp of approval of Almighty God",[29] but the Governing Body which was established later says its teachings are neither infallibile nor divinely inspired.[30][31][32]
Robert Crompton, author of a book on Watch Tower eschatology, has noted that it is difficult to trace the development of doctrines because explicit changes are often not identified in Jehovah's Witness literature, leaving readers to assume which details have been superseded.[33] Edmund C. Gruss, a critic of the religion, found that a 1943 Watch Tower Society publication that established a new creation chronology, changing the date of Adam's creation by 100 years, made no mention of the old time reckoning, which had previously been said to be "correct beyond a doubt".[34]
Watch Tower Society founding doctrines[edit]
From the first issue of Zion's Watch Tower in July 1879, Russell began publicising a number of doctrines, many of them drawn from Adventist teachings, including the atonement, resurrection, the soul, the invisible parousia (or return) of Christ[35] and God's "plan of the ages".[36] Russell taught that mankind was to be redeemed not from torment but from the death penalty that had been imposed on Adam and subsequently passed on to all his descendants. He wrote that Christ's "ransom for all" mentioned in 1 Timothy 2:5 would be applied to all humankind rather than just the righteously inclined.[37][38] Christ's death provided the ransom payment to free humans from death.[39] He believed an elect few would be resurrected to serve as a heavenly priesthood and all humans who had died would be resurrected to earth, which would be restored to Edenic perfection.[40]
Millennialist teachings[edit]
The dominant and central theme of Russell's teachings concerned the timing, nature and purpose of Christ's second coming.[41] His beliefs on the timing of Christ's Advent and God's overarching plan for humans had gained their first exposure in Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World, a book he paid Millerite Adventist Nelson H. Barbour to write in 1877.[42] Russell and Barbour parted company in 1879 and from 1886 Russell began writing his own books that further developed his Millennialist beliefs.
Russell's doctrines on the Millennium followed a tradition of interpretation of Scripture that had begun in the 1st century, when Jewish rabbis sought to identify the due time for the appearance of the Messiah by interpreting the prophecy of the 70 weeks of years of Daniel 9:24-27. Their approach to prophetic interpretation was based on the Day-year principle, drawn from Ezekiel 4 and Numbers 14, in which one day in prophecy represents one year in fulfillment.[43] Such teachings were revived and popularised in the early 19th century by American Adventist preacher William Miller.
Russell also incorporated Miller's teaching of types and antitypes, in which an actual historical situation (the type) prefigures a corresponding situation (the antitype),[44] as well as a modified version of John Nelson Darby's teachings on dispensationalism. Russell modified Darby's teachings to create his own doctrine of parallel dispensations, in which the timing of certain events in the Jewish age are a prophetic indication of corresponding events at the close of the Gospel age.[45] He believed the internal harmony of his "plan of the ages" proved its validity beyond reasonable doubt, noting that a change of just one year would destroy the parallelisms,[46] and found further confirmation in internal measurements of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which he viewed as a divinely built supporting witness to the Bible.[47][48]
The main points of his doctrines on Bible chronology were:
Seventy weeks of years: Russell believed the Adventist interpretation of the prophecy of the 70 weeks "until Messiah the Prince" at Daniel 9:24-27 could be used to demonstrate the validity of the year-for-a-day rule. He took 454 BCE as the date of Artaxerxes' decree to rebuild Jerusalem, and by converting 69 weeks of seven days (483 days) to 483 years arrived at 29 CE as the beginning of Jesus' ministry. Christ's crucifixion took place at the midpoint of the 70th week; the covenant with the Jewish nation remained in force another "week" (seven years) from the beginning of his ministry and its end was signified by the conversion of Cornelius in 36, when the Gospel was taken to the Gentiles.[49]
Times of the Gentiles: Using the year-for-a-day rule, Russell adopted and adjusted the teachings of Miller and Englishman John Aquila Brown, who both taught that the chastisement of the Israelites "seven times" for their sins (at Leviticus 26) indicated a period of 2520 years—seven prophetic years of 360 days each. In Russell's chronology system the period began with the deposing of Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, an event that marked the end of the typical Kingdom of God and beginning of the consequent lease of earthly dominion to Gentile governments, as foretold in Ezekiel 21:25-27. Russell calculated that Zedekiah's removal occurred in 606 BCE, and therefore claimed the "times of the Gentiles" ran from that date until 1914, when the kingdom would be re-established on earth under Jewish leadership. The end of the Gentile times would be marked by a return of the Jews to Palestine. Russell believed the period was also one of degradation for mankind in general, which he believed was prefigured by the account in Daniel 4 of Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree being cut down and restrained from growth for seven years.[50][51]
The time of the end: Miller had formulated doctrines drawn from Daniel 12:4,9 on the "time of the end", when the meaning of certain prophecies would be finally revealed. Russell made a slight amendment to the teaching, explaining that it began in 1799[52] when French general Berthier entered Rome, abolished papal government and established the Republic of Italy.[53] The "time of the end" would last 115 years to 1914.[54] The 1799 date, in turn, had been established by linking the 1260 days of Revelation 11:3 with time periods mentioned in Daniel 2, 7, and 12. Using the year-day principle, the period indicated 1260 years from 539 (when Justinian I recognised the pope as universal bishop) to 1799.[55][56]
Great Jubilee: Russell adopted and amended Miller's teaching of a secondary indicator of the due date for the Millennium. The ancient Jewish law provided for a series of sabbaths, each culminating in the Jubilee year in the 50th year, when slaves were released and leased property returned to its rightful owners.[57] Like Miller, Russell believed the arrangement foreshadowed the release of humans from the debt of sin and bondage through the intervention of Christ.[58] He taught that the Millennium was the antitypical Great Jubilee (the 50th 50-year jubilee) and marked the beginning of the second presence of Christ. Using his calculations of the date of the last jubilee before the Jewish exile, he added 2500 years (50 x 50) and calculated it had begun at the end of 1874.[59]
The greath sabbath: Russell embraced Miller's view that because "one day is with the Lord as a thousand years",[60] the seventh thousand-year period after creation would be a 1000-year-long sabbath "day". But whereas Miller had believed 1843 was 6000 years after creation,[61] Russell believed Adam was created in 4129 BC[62] and calculated 1872 as the end of 6000 years. He thought it reasonable that Adam and Eve had lived two years in Eden before sinning, and thus calculated the 6000 years ran from the time sin entered the world to October 1874, when Christ had returned and the times of restitution began.[63]
Parallel dispensations: Russell expanded Darby's doctrine of dispensationalism, explaining that events that befell the Jewish nation were prophetic counterparts of events during the Gospel age, with the timing of those events also having prophetic significance. He argued that the Jews had enjoyed 1845 years of favor from the death of Jacob to 33 CE[64] (the Jewish Age) and they would have to endure the same length of time in God's disfavor—thus from 33 to 1878 (the Gospel Age).[65] The Jews' fall from favour was gradual, spanning 37 years from 33 to 70, when Jerusalem was destroyed, and that period corresponded to a gradual restoration of God's favour to them between 1878 and 1914.[66] But although the Jewish nation's fall began in 33, God's favor towards individual Jews continued another 3½ years from Pentecost, during which time the gospel call was limited to Jews. That typified a 3½-year opportunity from 1878 until 1881 when the "high calling" or invitation to become joint heirs with Christ closed. The 3½-year period between Christ's anointing as Messiah and his riding into Jerusalem on an ass, being acclaimed as king and cleansing the temple of money-changers typified the period between his parousia (1874) and his assuming kingly power and rejection of "nominal church systems" (1878).[67] The 40-year "harvest" of the Jewish Age from 29–69 typified a 40-year harvest of the Gospel Age from 1874 to 1914.[68] The Jews expectation of the Messiah's arrival at the time of Jesus' birth, 30 years before his anointing,[69] was correlated with the Great Disappointment, the failure of Miller's prediction of the second coming of Christ in 1844, 30 years before the date indicated by Russell's system.[70]
Timeline of doctrinal changes[edit]
Doctrines unchanged since 1879[edit]
Biblical infallibility. Early copies of Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence made reference to the Bible as God's "infallible Word".[71]
God's name is Jehovah. Watch Tower Society founder Charles Taze Russell used the name "Jehovah" occasionally, but not consistently, when referring to God.[72]
Jesus Christ gave his human life as a ransom sacrifice; belief in Jesus necessary for salvation. Russell believed that God's design for mankind was a restitution or restoration to the perfection and glory lost in Eden. This depended on God providing a ransom for all mankind to release them from the inevitability of death. Christ became that ransom sacrifice.[73][74]
The timing of Christ's Second Coming, or "presence", can be calculated through Bible chronology. Russell believed the timing of Christ's advent could be calculated by determining the length and termination point of the "Gentile Times"[75][76] and also by calculating the close of six "thousand-year days" (6000 years) of human history, at which point God's Kingdom would be established.[62][77][78][79][80]
Christ's return to earth was invisible. Russell claimed the Greek word parousia (Matthew 24:37) referred to a period of time, rendered more accurately as "presence" than "coming"[81]
Paradise earth to be restored, humans to live forever.[82][83][84]
Evolution is a teaching contrary to the Bible and denies the need of redemption by Christ.[85][need quotation to verify][86]
Humans created as living souls.[87]
The dead are unconscious, awaiting resurrection.[88]
Anointed individuals are resurrected to heaven with spirit bodies.[89]
God's Kingdom is an organized heavenly government over earth, ruled by Jesus and the anointed.[90]
1880–1889[edit]
1880: Clergy-laity distinction viewed as unscriptural.[91]
1881: Rejection of the Trinity doctrine.[92][93][94] Russell claimed the Trinity doctrine had "not a word of Scripture" to support it. He explained: "We understand the Scriptures to teach that the holy Spirit is not a separate and distinct person, but that it is the divine mind or influence—the motive power of Divinity exercised everywhere and for any purpose, at His pleasure."[95][96][97] In 1877 Russell and co-author N. H. Barbour had criticized the anti-Trinitarian view of the Christadelphians;[98] an 1880 book by Zion's Watch Tower writer J. H. Paton emphasised that the Holy Spirit was a person[99] and early Watch Tower issues referred to the Holy Spirit as "he"[100][101][102] and part of the "Divine Three".[103]
1881: Faith alone is not enough for someone's becoming a joint-heir with Christ in heaven, but also a life of "self-sacrifice in the service of the truth" is required.[104]
1882: No hellfire. According to Russell, most references to "hell" in the New Testament were more accurately translated as "grave".[105][106]
1887: The New Covenant, which Russell had claimed since 1880 would be inaugurated only after the last of the 144,000 anointed Christians had been taken to heaven,[107] was said to be "now in force".[108][109]
1890–1899[edit]
1890: The "Time of the End" of Daniel 12:4 is identified as beginning in October 1799—when Napoleon invaded Egypt and ended the power of the papacy—and closing in 1914, at which point violent worldwide revolution would mark the end of the old world order and the beginning of a new one.[110]
1891: Biblical rapture is not a sudden event. The anointed are changed into spirit form, throughout the whole period of Christ's presence, at the time of each one's physical death.[111][112]
1897: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36 defined as "people living contemporaneously."[113]
1900–1909[edit]
1904: Worldwide descent into anarchy and disintegration of human rule, previously predicted to occur in October 1914,[114][115] changed to "after October 1914".[116]
1904: 144,000 "elect" to go to heaven. Russell believed God had chosen a "fixed and limited ... number who should constitute the New Creation of God". God had not foreordained individuals, but those who met his "moral qualities and heart measurements" would be chosen to go to heaven.[117][118]
1904: "Great Company" of Revelation 7:9, 14 identified as a secondary spiritual class who have "insufficient zeal for the Lord, the Truth and the brethren" who are granted heavenly life, but on a lower spiritual plane.[119] In heaven they serve as servants rather than kings and priests.[120][121]
1907: The inauguration of the New Covenant described as belonging "exclusively to the coming age."[122] Russell began to teach that the "church" (144,000 anointed Christians) had no mediator, but itself joined Christ as a joint messiah and mediator during the millennium.[109][123]
1910–1919[edit]
1914: Length of each creative 'day' of Genesis defined as precisely 7000 years.[124]
1914: Russell "by no means confident" 1914 would bring the upheaval he had predicted.[125]
1916: Timing of Armageddon, previously claimed to have begun in 1874 and to culminate in 1914,[126][127] changed to have begun in 1914.[128][129]
1919: Preaching work displaces "character development" as the "chief concern" of Bible Students. Russell had taught that Christians should embark on the gradual process of "sanctification" and personality improvement to fight sinful inclinations[130][131] In 1919 The Watch Tower declared that the primary concern for Bible Students was to labor with God to find members of the elect class.[132]
1919: The seven angels, or "messengers", of Revelation chapters 1 and 2 are identified "for the first time in the history of the church" as St Paul, St John, Arius, Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, Martin Luther and Charles Taze Russell.[133]
1920–1929[edit]
1920: Jesus Christ's crowning as king of God's kingdom, previously 1878,[134] changed to 1914.[135]
1920: The preaching of the gospel of the kingdom "in all the world for a witness unto all nations", (Matthew 24:14), previously claimed to have already been completed,[136] identified as a work for modern-day anointed Christians.[137]
1922: Establishment of God's kingdom over earth, previously expected to result in the destruction of human governments and a "new rule of righteousness" by the end of 1914[138] changed to an invisible event in heaven in 1914.[139][140]
1923: "Sheep class", mentioned at Matthew 25:31-46 defined as those who do good to "elect" class and are rewarded by surviving Armageddon and gaining life under Christ's thousand-year reign.[141][142][143] Russell had previously applied the parable to the work of dividing the people in the Millennial Age.[144]
1923: Limitations placed on extent of Christ's ransom and resurrection hope. Russell had taught that Christ had provided a ransom for all; a 1923 Watch Tower article asserted that clergymen would not be resurrected and benefit from the ransom;[145] later articles claimed that benefits of the ransom would also be denied to Adam and Eve; those who died in the Noachian flood; those who died at Sodom and Gomorrah; both the falls of Jerusalem and those who will die at Armageddon.[146]
1925: Armageddon identified as a battle between God and Satan, resulting in the overthrow of human governments and false religion. Armageddon had previously been understood to mean a "melee between contending forces of mankind", resulting in social revolution and political anarchy.[147][148][149][150][151][152]
1925: Michael, the dragon and the man-child in Revelation chapter 12, previously defined as the Pope, the Roman Empire and the papacy, redefined as Jesus, Satan and the New Nation (or Kingdom), respectively.[153][154]
1926: Use of name Jehovah, previously used sparingly at assemblies and in public preaching, given new emphasis. Announced in January 1, 1926 issue of The Watchtower.[155]
1926: "Satan's organization" defined as the rulers of politics, commerce and religion and all their followers.[156]
1927: "First resurrection" of "sleeping saints", previously 1878,[157] changed to 1918.[158][159]
1927: Identification of "time of the end" as a 115-year period from 1799 to 1914 discontinued.[160] Final reference appeared in J. F. Rutherford's Creation (1927).[161]
1927: "Faithful and wise servant" of Matthew 24:45-47, previously defined as Russell since 1897,[162][163][164][165] changed to a "class" comprising all remaining "anointed" Christians.[166]
1927: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36, previously defined as "people living contemporaneously"[113] changed to a remnant of the "anointed" on earth during Armageddon.[167]
1928: Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, previously regarded as a testimony to the Bible and its chronology,[48][168] declared to have no prophetic significance and built under the direction of Satan.[169]
1928: Celebration of Christmas, previously embraced as a "tribute of respect" to Christ,[170][171] discontinued because of its "pagan origin".[172]
1929: Honoring of God's name described as "the outstanding issue facing all intelligent creation".[173]
1929: "Superior authorities" of Romans 13:1 to whom Christians had to show subjection and obedience, previously defined as governmental authorities, redefined as God and Christ only.[174][175] Secular state then regarded as demonic and almost without redeeming features.[176]
1929: Beginning of "Time of the End" of Daniel 12:4 changed from 1799 to 1914.[177]
1930–1939[edit]
1931: Adoption of the name "Jehovah's witnesses".[178]
1932: Assertion that God's Holy Spirit ceased operating on his people when "[Jesus] the Lord came to his temple, in 1918",[179][180] at which point Jesus 'took charge of feeding the flock'.[181]
1932: The "Jews" who will be restored to their homeland, previously defined as literal Jews,[182] redefined as the Christian congregation.[176][183][184]
1932: Identification of "Jonadabs", a "sheep" class of people who take a stand for righteousness and who are to be preserved by God through Armageddon to gain everlasting life on earth. The term was drawn from the account at 2 Kings 10.[185] In 1920 Rutherford had written that it was "unreasonable" to think God was developing any class other than the little flock (the 144,000 to attain heavenly kingship) and the "great company" (second spiritual class also with a heavenly hope). In 1934 the Watchtower explained that the "Jonadabs" survive Armageddon by living in the figurative "City of refuge", represented by remaining affiliated with the Watch Tower Society.[186]
1932: Watch Tower Society adherents with an earthly hope should join the worldwide preaching work.[187] In 1927 The Watchtower had directed that only anointed Christians were "entitled" to take part in the ministry.[188]
1933: Christ's parousia – his second coming or invisible "presence" – previously established as 1874 and reaffirmed as late as 1929,[189] changed to 1914.[190]
1934: Vindication of God's name becomes central doctrine.[191] Rutherford noted that God had provided Jesus Christ's sacrifice as the redemption price for sinful humankind, but wrote that this was "secondary to the vindication of Jehovah's name".[192]
1934: The 1917 teaching that Russell was exercising strong influence from heaven on the "harvesting" of anointed Christians[193] described as "foolish".[194]
1935: "Great crowd" of Revelation 7 defined as the "sheep" of Matthew 25, resulting in a redirection of proselytizing efforts from gathering the "elect" (remnant of the 144,000 with a heavenly destiny) to gathering an indeterminate number of people who could survive Armageddon and receive everlasting life on earth. Previously, the "great crowd" was believed to have a heavenly hope.[141][195]
1935: Tobacco use "unclean" and prohibited for Bethel (branch office) staff and traveling overseers.[196]
1935: Vaccines, described since 1921 as "devilish" and "an outrage",[197][198] condemned as a violation of God's law.[199]
1936: Device on which Jesus was killed, previously defined as a wooden cross, redefined as a "tree".[200] An image of the cross appeared on the front page of The Watch Tower until October 1931.[201]
1937: Jehovah's Witnesses with an earthly hope could be described as "Christian".[202] In 1930 the Watchtower had asserted that the term "Christian" could be applied only to anointed followers of Christ.[203]
1938: God's mandate to "be fruitful and multiply" said to apply only after the start of the millennium. The Watchtower said the mandate had never been carried out under righteous conditions, and so had failed to be fulfilled according to God's will. Rutherford urged Witnesses to delay marriage and the bearing of children until after Armageddon.[204]
1939: Witnesses required to demonstrate complete neutrality in worldly affairs.[205]
1940–1949[edit]
1942: Tobacco prohibition applied to all appointed positions, such as congregation overseers and servants.[206]
1943: Destruction of Jerusalem moved from 606 BCE to 607 BCE, when the Watch Tower Society realised there was no year zero between 1 BCE and 1 CE, in order to maintain calculations regarding 1914; return of the Jews from Babylon to Jerusalem moved from 536 BCE to 537 BCE to maintain 70 years after 607 BCE.[207][208]
1943: Adam's creation, previously 4129 BCE[209] or 4128 BCE,[210] moved forward 100 years to 4028 BCE. The shift in dates also moved the termination point of 6,000 years of human history from October 1872[211] to 1972.[212][213]
1944: Responsibility for administering discipline, including disfellowshipping, of dissident members passed from entire congregation to congregational judicial committees.[214][215] Russell had recommended in a 1904 publication that a congregation "committee" investigate a congregant's serious "error or sin", but the entire congregation voted whether "to withdraw from him its fellowship".[216]
1944: Adam's creation, previously 4028 BCE, changed to 4026 BCE.[217]
1945: Blood transfusions forbidden.[218][219] Russell had viewed the prohibition on eating blood in Acts 15:19-29 as a "suggestion" to gentile Christians in order to "guard against stumbling themselves or becoming stumbling blocks to others"[220] and ensure peace within the early church.[221]
1950–1959[edit]
1951: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36, previously defined as a remnant of the "anointed" on earth during Armageddon[167] changed to "a 'generation' in the ordinary sense" who were alive in 1914.[222]
1951: Celebration of birthdays considered "objectionable" because celebrations are "steeped in false worship" and exalt humans.[223]
1952: Vaccines, previously condemned, considered acceptable.[224][225]
1953: Adam's creation, previously 4026 BCE, changed to 4025 BCE. End of God's 6,000-year "rest day" ending in northern hemisphere autumn 1976.[226]
1954: Worship of Jesus, previously considered appropriate and necessary,[227][228][229] deemed inappropriate, with the New World Translation translating proskyne′ō as "do obeisance to" rather than "worship" (King James Version).[230]
1955: Operation of Holy Spirit, asserted in 1932 to have ceased in 1918, stated as having been still operative after 1918.[231]
1960–1969[edit]
1961: Acceptance of blood transfusion deemed a disfellowshipping offence.[232] Acceptance of human organ transplant stipulated a personal matter to be decided without criticism.[233]
1962: "Superior authorities" of Romans 13:1 redefined as earthly governments, reverting the 1929 change[234] to Russell's 1886 teaching.[235] A year earlier, Russell's view was considered to have made the Watch Tower Bible Students unclean in God's eyes.[174][236]
1963: Adam's creation changed back to 4026 BCE.[237] End of 6,000 years of human history due in northern hemisphere autumn 1975.[238]
1967: Human organ transplants equated with cannibalism,[239] "a practice abhorrent to all civilized people", and said to be a procedure not permitted by God.[240] The Watchtower article announcing the view is interpreted by commentators as a prohibition.[9][241] In a 1972 article, Jehovah's Witnesses are described as having taken a "stand" against organ transplants, saving them from the consequences of such operations, on the basis of the description of the procedure as "a form of cannibalism".[242]
1968: Interval between Adam's creation and the close of the sixth creative "day", previously "quite some time",[213][217][243][244] changed to "a comparatively short period of time" that "may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years." The change led to expectations that Christ's 1,000 year reign could begin in 1975.[245]
1970–1979[edit]
1973: Tobacco use banned. Tobacco users not to be accepted for baptism and baptized Witnesses to be disfellowshipped if they continue to smoke after "a reasonable period of time, such as six months".[246]
1980–1989[edit]
1980: Acceptance of human organ transplants stipulated as a matter of personal choice not warranting congregational discipline. View of transplants as cannibalism now said to be held only by "some Christians".[247] The Watchtower article is regarded by commentators as a reversal of Society's 1967 position that the procedure is not permitted by God.[9][241]
1981: Members who formally resign membership of the religion (disassociate) are to be shunned in the same manner as disfellowshipped Witnesses.[248]
1983: Martial arts and carrying "firearms for protection against humans" disqualify a Witness from "special privileges in the congregation", such as appointment as elder.[249]
1988: Length of creative 'days' in Genesis, previously defined as exactly 7,000 years each,[250] changed to "at least thousands of years in length" [emphasis added][251]
1990-1999[edit]
1990: Interval between Adam's creation and the close of the sixth creative "day" changed to "some time", employing a 1963 reference rather than the 1968 change.[252]
1992: The "modern-day Nethinim", previously defined as synonymous with the "other sheep",[253] redefined as a subset of the "other sheep" who serve in positions of authority within the organization as "helpers" to the Governing Body.[254]
1995: "This generation" at Matthew 23:36, previously defined as a typical human lifespan since Jesus' parousia in 1914,[222] redefined as a class of people displaying certain characteristics for an indefinite period of time.[255][256][257][258][259]
1995: Fulfillment of Jesus' parable of the separating of sheep and goats, previously considered to have been ongoing since 1914, changed to after the start of the 'great tribulation'.[260][261]
1995: The expression "vindication of Jehovah’s name" declared unnecessary, with emphasis on "vindicating his sovereignty" and "sanctifying his name" as being more accurate.[262] The former expression had not appeared in any publication since 1991.[263]
2000–2009[edit]
2007: Selection of the 144,000 "anointed", previously considered to have ended in 1935,[264] changed to an indefinite period.[265]
2008: "This generation" redefined as "anointed" believers, who will "not pass away" before the great tribulation begins.[266] This was a return to the belief held in 1927.[167]
2010–2019[edit]
2010: "This generation" redefined to refer to a new generation of "anointed" whose lives "overlap" with "the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914".[267]
2012: "Faithful and discreet slave", previously defined as synonymous with the "anointed" and represented by the Governing Body,[268] redefined to refer to the Governing Body only. The "domestics", previously defined as each member of the "anointed" individually, redefined as including all members of the "anointed" and the "great crowd". The "evil slave" of Matthew 24:48, previously defined as former "anointed" members who reject Jesus, redefined as a hypothetical warning to the "faithful slave".[269][270]
Criticism[edit]
Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz and Sociology lecturer Andrew Holden have pointed out that doctrines—including those relating to sexual behaviour in marriage and the "superior authorities" of Romans 13:4—have sometimes been altered, only to revert to those held decades earlier.[271] Holden, author of a major ethnographic study on the religion, commented: "It could be that many Witnesses have not yet been in the organisation long enough to realise that 'new lights' have a habit of growing dimmer, while old ones are switched back on!"[272] In his study of the Witnesses and their history, Tony Wills has suggested that when third president Nathan H. Knorr altered major doctrines established by his predecessor, J. F. Rutherford, he was returning the Witnesses to many of Russell's teachings. He asked: "How can the Society harmonize this circular development with the claimed progressive development?"[273]
In testimony at a 1954 court case in Scotland, senior Watch Tower Society figures admitted that although doctrines were subject to change if they were later regarded as erroneous, all Witnesses were required to accept current teachings or risk expulsion. Under cross-examination, then Society vice president Fred Franz conceded a Witness could be disfellowshipped and shunned for "causing trouble" over a belief they held that was contrary to Society teaching but subsequently embraced by the religion.[274] Society lawyer Hayden G. Covington told the court that although the Society had for decades published a "false prophecy ... a false statement" about the date of Christ's Second Coming, members of the religion had been required to accept it and any who had rejected it would have been expelled. He explained: "You must understand we must have unity, we cannot have disunity with a lot of people going every way."[275]
See also[edit]
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Faithful and discreet slave
Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses
History of Jehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
Watch Tower Society unfulfilled predictions
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106
2.Jump up ^ "Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation", Watchtower, June 15, 1964, page 365,"The abundance of spiritual food and the amazing details of Jehovah’s purposes that have been revealed to Jehovah’s anointed witnesses are clear evidence that they are the ones mentioned by Jesus when he foretold a 'faithful and discreet slave' class that would be used to dispense God’s progressive revelations in these last days ... How thankful we should be for the provision God has made of this slave class, the modern spiritual remnant, as they faithfully dispense the revealed truths of Jehovah! ... Jehovah’s faithful witnesses have been progressively brought to an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes, which are clearer now than ever before in history."
3.Jump up ^ "Seek God's guidance in all things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 11.
4.Jump up ^ "How the Governing Body Is Organized", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29.
5.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 152–164
6.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 22, 10, 158, 163
7.Jump up ^ "The Godly Qualities of Love and Hate". The Watchtower, 15 July 1974, "Christians have implicit trust in their heavenly Father; they do not question what he tells them through his written Word and organization."
8.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today", The Watchtower, February 1, 1952, page 79, "Are we assigned as individuals to bring forth the food for the spiritual table? No? Then let us not try to take over the slave’s duties. We should eat and digest and assimilate what is set before us, without shying away from parts of the food because it may not suit the fancy of our mental taste. The truths we are to publish are the ones provided through the discreet-slave organization, not some personal opinions contrary to what the slave has provided as timely food. Jehovah and Christ direct and correct the slave as needed, not we as individuals. If we do not see a point at first we should keep trying to grasp it, rather than opposing and rejecting it and presumptuously taking the position that we are more likely to be right than the discreet slave. We should meekly go along with the Lord’s theocratic organization and wait for further clarification ... Theocratic ones will appreciate the Lord’s visible organization and not be so foolish as to pit against Jehovah’s channel their own human reasoning and sentiment and personal feelings."
9.^ Jump up to: a b c Osamu Muramoto, "Bioethics of the refusal of blood by Jehovah's Witnesses, part 1", Journal of Medical Ethics, August 1998, Vol 24, Issue 4, page 223-230.
10.Jump up ^ "The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter", The Watchtower, December 1, 1981, pages 26-31.
11.Jump up ^ The Time is At Hand, By C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1891, page B39, "And though the Bible contains no direct statement that the seventh thousand will be the epoch of Christ's reign, the great Sabbath Day of restitution to the world, yet the venerable tradition is not without a reasonable foundation.".
12.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, October 1, 1907, R4067: page 294, "Can we feel absolutely sure that the Chronology set forth in the DAWN-STUDIES is correct? ...we have never claimed our calculations to be infallibly correct; we have never claimed that they were knowledge, nor based upon indisputable evidence, facts, knowledge; our claim has always been that they are based on faith. We have set forth the evidences as plainly as possible and stated the conclusions of faith we draw from them, and have invited others to accept as much or as little of them as their hearts and heads could endorse. ...Possibly some who have read the DAWNS have presented our conclusions more strongly than we; but if so that is their own responsibility."
13.Jump up ^ "Impart God’s Progressive Revelation to Mankind", The Watchtower, March 1, 1965, p. 158-159
14.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 165–171
15.Jump up ^ "Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 15.
16.Jump up ^ Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society 1993, p. 709
17.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 165
18.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherford, Preparation, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1933, page 64, 67, "Enlightenment proceeds from Jehovah by and through Christ Jesus and is given to the faithful anointed on earth at the temple, and brings great peace and consolation to them. Again Zechariah talked with the angel of the Lord, which shows that the remnant are instructed by the angels of the Lord. The remnant do not hear audible sounds, because such is not necessary. Jehovah has provided his own good way to convey thoughts to the minds of his anointed ones ... Those of the remnant, being honest and true, must say, We do not know; and the Lord enlightens them, sending his angels for that very purpose."
19.Jump up ^ Watchtower 1933, pages 53, 62, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 165.
20.Jump up ^ Life Everlasting in Freedom in the Sons of God Watchtower Society, 1966, page 149, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 165.
21.Jump up ^ "The Things Revealed Belong to Us", The Watchtower, May 15, 1986, pages 10-15, "In 1925 God’s earthly servants became possessors of an accurate understanding... In 1932 their understanding was deepened still further. Jehovah revealed that the prophecies related ...to spiritual Israel, the Christian congregation. (Romans 2:28, 29) Then, in 1935 a corrected understanding of John’s vision of the “great crowd” in Revelation chapter 7 opened the eyes of anointed ones to the huge gathering work that still lay ahead of them.".
22.Jump up ^ "Flashes of Light - Great and Small", Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 17, 18.
23.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 64
24.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 106
25.Jump up ^ Watchtower, December 1, 1933, page 364, "Without doubt these angels are delegated by the Lord to convey his instructions to the members of his organization on earth. Just how this is done is not necessary for us to understand."
26.Jump up ^ "You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy", Watchtower, February 15, 1976, page 123
27.Jump up ^ "Keep in Step With Jehovah’s Organization", Watchtower, January 15, 2001, page 18.
28.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1922, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 228.
29.^ Jump up to: a b Watch Tower, July 15, 1922, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 226.
30.Jump up ^ "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?", The Watchtower, March 1, 1979, pages 23-24.
31.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, October 15, 1954, page 638.
32.Jump up ^ "Name and Purpose of The Watchtower", The Watchtower, August 15, 1950, page 263.
33.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 115
34.Jump up ^ Edmund C. Gruss, The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co, 1972, page 64. Gruss based his comments on The Truth Shall Make You Free, 1943, pages 141-52.
35.Jump up ^ "The Sign of His Presence", Zion's Watch Tower, May 1880.
36.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 26
37.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 5
38.Jump up ^ "If Death Ends All", Zion's Watch Tower, July 1879.
39.Jump up ^ "Why Did Christ Die?", Zion's Watch Tower, November 1879.
40.Jump up ^ "The Royal Priesthood", "If Death Ends All", Zion's Watch Tower, July 1879.
41.Jump up ^ Rogerson 1969, p. 17
42.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 9
43.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 17
44.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 21
45.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 43–48,144
46.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 243–244
47.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 47
48.^ Jump up to: a b Russell 1891, pp. 313–376
49.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 36–37
50.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 74–102
51.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 37–39
52.Jump up ^ Miller's chronology pinpointed the start in 1798, according to Crompton (pg 23).
53.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 21
54.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, pp. 23–60
55.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 23
56.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 69
57.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 25
58.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 177
59.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 39–41
60.Jump up ^ 2 Peter 3:8.
61.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 25
62.^ Jump up to: a b Russell 1889, p. 53
63.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 127,128
64.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 213
65.Jump up ^ Russell's belief in a "repetition" or doubling of iniquity was drawn from Jeremiah 16:18. See The Time Is At Hand, pg 218.
66.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 221
67.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 235
68.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 105, 150, 222, 234
69.Jump up ^ Luke 3:15.
70.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 47
71.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, January 1, 1908, page 2.
72.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 492
73.Jump up ^ Russell 1886, pp. 149–172
74.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3821 (reprint).
75.Jump up ^ 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, page 36.
76.Jump up ^ "Who Can Read the Sign Aright?", Watchtower, February 1, 1985, page 10.
77.Jump up ^ Rogerson, Alan (1969), Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses, Constable & Co, London, pp. 17–23, ISBN 978-0-09-455940-0
78.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, pp. 67–77
79.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 20
80.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 38, 39
81.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, August 1879, Reprints 20, page 3.
82.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Object and Manner of Our Lord's Return, 1877.
83.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, July 1, 1879, p. 7 (reprint).
84.Jump up ^ "Speak the Pure Language and Live Forever!", The Watchtower, May 1, 1991, page 17, "In 1879...a small Bible-study group led by Charles Taze Russell was meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. They had become certain that Jesus’ second coming...would restore Paradise on earth, with eternal life for obedient humans."
85.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3824 (reprint).
86.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Divine Plan of the Ages, 1886, study IX, page 172, "These things are clearly taught in the Scriptures, from beginning to end, and are in direct opposition to the Evolution theory; or, rather, such "babblings of science, falsely so called," are in violent and irreconcilable conflict with the Word of God."
87.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, pp. 6, 42
88.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 42
89.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 165
90.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 48,49
91.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1880, Watch Tower Reprints page 64 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 2
92.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, April 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 207 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 7, "And why did they thus keep the people in ignorance? Because they feared that if people knew this, the only text which gives even a shadow of support to the doctrine of the TRINITY, to be an interpolation to support a papal error, they might renounce the error".
93.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, September 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 278 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 132, "As to the motives and errors which may have led to these unwarranted interpolations of the [Bible] text, we may be able to offer a suggestion, viz., the last mentioned (1 John 5:7,8) was probably intended to give authority and sanction to the doctrine of the "Trinity."
94.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 290 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 4, ""He gave his only begotten Son." This phraseology brings us into conflict with an old Babylonian theory, viz.: Trinitarianism. If that doctrine is true, how could there be any Son to give? A begotten Son, too? Impossible. If these three are one, did God send himself? And how could Jesus say: "My Father is greater than I." John 14:28. [emphasis retained from original]"
95.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, July 1882, Reprints 370, page 3.
96.Jump up ^ Penton, M. J. (1997), Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.), University of Toronto Press, p. 343, note 64, "Barbour and Paton were trinitarians ... although Henry Grew and George Stetson, two others who had influenced him, were non–trinitarians, Russell did not take a stand on the matter, at least publicly, until after his split with Paton."
97.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 120.
98.Jump up ^ N. H. Barbour, C. T. Russell, Three Worlds, 1877, page 57, "I am beginning to think Age-to-come people, and many others among pre-millennialists, do not believe in anything of a spiritual nature, or have the most remote comprehension of things of that order; either that the saint is raised 'a spiritual body,' or in the existence of spiritual beings, or even of the Holy Spirit itself. I know one class of age-to-come believers, the Christadelphians, do not. The Holy Spirit, say they, is but a principle, or element of power, and not an intelligence. It is nothing more nor less than 'electricity;' is taught in one of their books, now before me. What wonder they discern only a fleshly future."
99.Jump up ^ J. H. Paton, Day Dawn, A.D. Jones, 1880, page 225, 229, "The work of the Holy Spirit is one of the most important elements in the plan of revelation and salvation. He is always spoken of by the Saviour as a Person, and is called the " Spirit of truth." We will follow the Saviour's example in this, though we do not propose to deal with the philosophy of that fact. He being the Spirit of truth, it is His mission to make known the truth."
100.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, July 1880, page 8, "But the Spirit cannot resign his work until it is complete."
101.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, August 1880, page 4, "Then let the Spirit use his sword upon others as he may see fit to humble them, strip them of pride, and bring them to the rock that is higher than they."
102.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, November 1880, page 8, "The Spirit is still our leader and instructor. He is now telling us of Him who comes by way of unseen presence that He is here present."
103.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, March 1881, page 5, "The number three is surprisingly prominent, as the subject opens before us ... We would first call attention to the Divine Three – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – often mentioned in the Bible."
104.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3825 (reprint).
105.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, May 1882, Reprints 356, page 8.
106.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, September 1882, Reprints 392, page 4.
107.Jump up ^ "The Three Great Covenants", Zion's Watch Tower, March 1880.
108.Jump up ^ "The New Covenant vs the Law Covenant", Zion's Watch Tower, September 1887.
109.^ Jump up to: a b Wills 2006, pp. 63–68
110.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, pp. 38,47–59
111.Jump up ^ Rusell 1891, pp. 239–242
112.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3823 (reprint).
113.^ Jump up to: a b Studies in the Scriptures 4. pp. 602–603.
114.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 78
115.Jump up ^ "The Outlook - War & Prosperity", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, September 15, 1901 (R2876 page 292)
116.Jump up ^ "Universal Anarchy", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, July 1, 1904 (R3389 page 197)
117.Jump up ^ The New Creation, (Volume VI of Studies in the Scriptures), 1904, page 179: “We have every reason to believe that the definite, fixed number of the elect [chosen anointed ones] is that several times stated in Revelation (7:4; 14:1); namely, 144,000 ‘redeemed from amongst men."
118.Jump up ^ "The Great Company", Zion's Watch Tower, October 15, 1904.
119.Jump up ^ The New Creation, (Volume VI of Studies in the Scriptures), 1904, page 168-170.
120.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, pp. 57, 58
121.Jump up ^ "The Rank of the Ancient Worthies", "The Great Company", Zion's Watch Tower, October 15, 1904.
122.Jump up ^ "Our Advocate, the World's Mediator," Zion's Watch Tower, January 1, 1907.
123.Jump up ^ "The Word Mediator Used Differently,", Watch Tower, January 1909.
124.Jump up ^ Scenario of the Photo-Drama of Creation, ©1914 International Bible Students Association, page 3
125.Jump up ^ "Views from the Watch Tower", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 1, 1914 (R5373: page 3)
126.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 101
127.Jump up ^ "Overcome With Wine", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 15, 1892 (R1357: page 27)
128.Jump up ^ "What Smiting of the Waters May Mean", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, February 1, 1916 (R5845: page 38)
129.Jump up ^ "The Burning of the Tares", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, September 1, 1916 (R5951: page 265)
130.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, October 1, 1913, pgs 291-295.
131.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, April 1, 1916, pages 98-99.
132.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, December 15, 1919, pg 375.
133.Jump up ^ "The Table of the Great King,", The Watchtower, April 1, 1919, as cited by James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, pg 181.
134.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 233
135.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, July 1, 1920, page 196.
136.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Battle of Armageddon, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1897, page 568.
137.Jump up ^ "Gospel of the Kingdom", The Watchtower, July 1, 1920, pages 199-200.
138.Jump up ^ "View from the Tower", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 15, 1892 (R1354: page 19)
139.Jump up ^ New Heavens and a New Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1953, page 225.
140.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1922, pages 332-337.
141.^ Jump up to: a b Penton 1997, p. 72
142.Jump up ^ "The Keys of the Kingdom and the Great Crowd", Watchtower, October 1, 1971, page 14.
143.Jump up ^ "The Parable of the sheep and goats", The Watchtower, October 15, 1923, pages 307-314.
144.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 113
145.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 15, 1923.
146.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, pp. 141, 142
147.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1, 1925.
148.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 134
149.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 223
150.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 251
151.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, August 1, 1892, page 238.
152.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, 1917, pages 256-258. See comment on Rev. 16:16-20.
153.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, March 1, 1925, page 69.
154.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherford, The Battle of Armageddon, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1889, page 541.
155.Jump up ^ "Restoration of True Religion", Watchtower, March 1, 1954, page 150.
156.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford, Deliverance, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 1926, pages 268,269.
157.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 306
158.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, June 1, 1927.
159.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 226
160.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 23
161.Jump up ^ Creation by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1927, chapter 12, page 314.
162.Jump up ^ The Battle of Armageddon (Part IV, "Studies in the Scriptures") by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1897, page 613.
163.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, July 15, 1906, page 215.
164.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, pp. 78–79
165.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, March 1, 1923, pages 68 and 71, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, Commentary Press, 2007, page 63.
166.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1, 1927 and February, pages 7, 51-7, as cited by Penton, Apocalypse Delayed.
167.^ Jump up to: a b c The Watchtower: 62. February 15, 1927.
168.Jump up ^ Watchtower, June 15, 1922, page 187, as reproduced by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 225, 226.
169.Jump up ^ Watchtower, 1928, pages 339-45, 355-62, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 170.
170.Jump up ^ "The Prince of Peace", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, December 1, 1904, page 364.
171.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, December 24, 1919, page 215: "Christmas is regarded by many people as the date of the birth of the babe Jesus in a manger at Bethlehem. Whether the date is correct or not is of small importance, but the event was and is of the greatest importance."
172.Jump up ^ 1975 Yearbook, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, page 146
173.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 152.
174.^ Jump up to: a b Franz 2007, p. 484
175.Jump up ^ "The Higher Powers", Watch Tower, June 1929, pages 163-169, 179-185.
176.^ Jump up to: a b Penton 1997, p. 65
177.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 1, 1929, pages 355-357, as cited by Edmond C. Gruss, The Four Presidents of the Watch Tower Society, page 117 and Tony Wills, A People For His name, page 48.
178.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 62
179.Jump up ^ Preservation by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, page 103-194.
180.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 1, 1932, page 294.
181.Jump up ^ Preparation, ©1933 by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower, page 196
182.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 1925, page 57, "We know the work of restitution must come to the Jews first, and through them to the rest of the world. As the Scriptures state that Jerusalem is to be the capital of the world and that the ancient worthies are to be princes in all the earth, we are warranted in expecting that the kingdom work will begin at Jerusalem."
183.Jump up ^ Vindication, Book 2, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, pages 258, 269, 295.
184.Jump up ^ Vindication, Book 3, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, page 333.
185.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses – Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 165.
186.Jump up ^ Watchtower, August 15, 1934, as cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name, pg 192-193.
187.Jump up ^ Vindication, J. F. Rutherford, Book III, pages 83. 84.
188.Jump up ^ Watchtower, January 15, 1927, pg 26, 27, "He who is called to be a minister of God must be a new creature, begotten of God's holy spirit; none other can have a share. In this ministry only those who are new creatures in Jesus Christ are entitled to share." As cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name,(2007), pg 194.
189.Jump up ^ Prophecy by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1929, chapter 4, page 65.
190.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, December 1, 1933, page 362: "In the year 1914 that due time of waiting came to an end. Christ Jesus received the authority of the kingdom and was sent forth by Jehovah to rule amidst his enemies. The year 1914, therefore, marks the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King of glory."
191.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 69
192.Jump up ^ Jehovah, J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1934.
193.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1917, page 6161.
194.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford, Jehovah, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1934, page 191.
195.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1959, page 140.
196.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, March 1, 1935
197.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, October 12, 1921, Page 17, "Vaccination never prevented anything and never will, and is the most barbarous practice ... We are in the last days; and the devil is slowly losing his hold, making a strenuous effort meanwhile to do all the damage he can, and to his credit can such evils be placed ... Use your rights as American citizens to forever abolish the devilish practice of vaccinations."
198.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, January 5, 1929, Page 502, "Thinking people would rather have smallpox than vaccination, because the latter sows seeds of syphilis, cancers, eczema, erysipelas, scrofula, consumption, even leprosy and many other loathsome affections. Hence the practice of vaccinations is a crime, an outrage, and a delusion."
199.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, April 2, 1935, Page 465, "As vaccination is a direct injection of animal matter in the blood stream, vaccination is a direct violation of the law of Jehovah God."
200.Jump up ^ Riches, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1936, page 27.
201.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 150
202.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1937, page 336, as cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name, pg 195.
203.Jump up ^ Watchtower, March 1, 1930, page 71, "Since "Christ' means the anointed of God, it is manifestly true that no one can properly be termed a Christian who is not in Christ and who has not received the anointing."
204.Jump up ^ A People for His Name, Tony Wills, pgs 186-187, citing Watchtower October 15, 1938, pg 307, Watchtower, November 1, 1938, page 323, Watchtower, November 15, 1938, page 346.
205.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1939, as cited by Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 193.
206.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 1, 1942, pages 205-206
207.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers". The Watchtower: 94. February 1, 1955. "Jehovah's witnesses from 1877 up to and including the publishing of "The Truth Shall Make You Free" of 1943 considered 536 B.C. as the year for the return of the Jews to Palestine"
208.Jump up ^ "Determining the Year by Fact and Bible". The Watchtower: 271–2. May 1, 1952. "Concerning the first error, Russell and others considered 1 B.C. to A.D. 1 as being two years whereas in fact this is only one year because, as has been said above, there is no "zero" year in the B.C.-A.D. system for counting years."
209.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 54
210.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, May 15, 1896, R1980 page 112.
211.Jump up ^ Three Worlds, by N. H. Barbour and C. T. Russell, 1877, pages 67, 186, as cited by Edmund Gruss, The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, 1972, pages 62-63.
212.Jump up ^ The Truth Shall Make You Free, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1943, chapter 11, page 151.
213.^ Jump up to: a b Gruss, Edmond C. (1972), The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co, pp. 68–69, ISBN 0-87552-306-4
214.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 89
215.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 1944.
216.Jump up ^ The New Creation, Watch Tower, 1904, pages 289-290, "The administration of discipline is not the function of the elders only, but of the entire [congregation]. ... If the reproved one fails to clear himself, and continues in the error or sin, then two or three brethren without previous prejudice should be asked to hear the matter and advise the disputants. (Elders they may or may not be, but their eldership would add no force or authority in the case except as their judgment might be the riper and their influence the more potent.) If this committee decide unanimously with either party, the other should acquiesce and the matter be wholly at an end--correction, or restitution, so far as possible, being promptly made. If either of the original disputants still persists in the wrong course, the [accuser, a committee member] or, preferably, all of these together, may then (but not sooner) exercise their privilege of bringing the matter before the [congregation]. Thus it is evident that the Elders were in no sense to be judges of the members—hearing and judgment were left to the [congregation]. The two preliminary steps (above mentioned) having been taken, the facts being certified to the elders, it would be their duty to call a general meeting of the [congregation], as a court--to hear the case in all of its particulars, and in the name and reverence of its Head to render a decision. ... if the transgressor refuse to hear (obey) the decision of the entire [congregation], ... the [congregation] is to withdraw from him its fellowship and any and all signs or manifestations of brotherhood. [emphasis retained from original]
217.^ Jump up to: a b Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, 1 February 1955: 94–95
218.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 153
219.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 1. 1945.
220.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, November 15, 1892 p. 351.
221.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, April 15, 1909 pp. 116-117, "These prohibitions had never come to the Gentiles, because they had never been under the Law Covenant; but so deeply rooted were the Jewish ideas on this subject that it was necessary to the peace of the Church that the Gentiles should observe this matter also ... these items thus superadded to the Law of Love should be observed by all spiritual Israelites as representing the Divine will.”
222.^ Jump up to: a b The Watchtower: 404. July 1, 1951.
223.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, Watchtower, October 1, 1951.
224.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 15, 1952.
225.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, September 15, 1958: "Q: Are we to consider the injection of serums such as diphtheria toxin antitoxin and blood fractions such as gamma globulin into the blood stream, for the purpose of building up resistance to disease by means of antibodies, the same as the drinking of blood or the taking of blood or blood plasma by means of transfusion? A: No, it does not seem necessary that we put the two in the same category, although we have done so in times past.
226.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, 1 February 1955: 95
227.Jump up ^ "Interesting Queries", Watch Tower, July 15, 1898, page 216.
228.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1939, page 339: "Jehovah God commands all to worship Christ Jesus because Christ Jesus is the express image of his Father, Jehovah"
229.Jump up ^ Watchtower, October 15, 1945, page 313: "Since Jehovah God now reigns as King by means of his capital organization Zion, then whosoever would worship Him must also worship and bow down to Jehovah's Chief One in that capital organization, namely, Christ Jesus."
230.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, January 1, 1954, page 30.
231.Jump up ^ "Modern Restoration of True Worship (1919-1932)", The Watchtower, May 15, 1955, page 296, "Jesus—then to expand on a global scale—so now in the spring of 1919 there was an outpouring of Jehovah’s holy spirit organizationally upon the Christian remnant."
232.Jump up ^ Watchtower, January 15, 1961, page 63.
233.Jump up ^ Watchtower, August 1, 1961, page 480.
234.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1962.
235.Jump up ^ The Divine Plan of the Ages, by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1886, page 266: "They taught the Church to obey the laws, and to respect those in authority because of their office, even if they were not personally worthy of esteem; to pay their appointed taxes, and, except where they conflicted with God's laws (Acts 4: 19; 5: 29), to offer no resistance to any established law. (Rom. 13: 1 - 7)"
236.Jump up ^ "The Congregation in the Time of the End", Watchtower, March 1, 1961, page 146.
237.Jump up ^ All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1963, page 286.
238.Jump up ^ The Removal of Mankind's Chief Disturber, The Watchtower, 15 July 1967: 446–447
239.Jump up ^ Awake, June 8, 1968, Page 21 “Christian witnesses of Jehovah,... consider all transplants between humans as cannibalism.”
240.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1967, pages 702-704
241.^ Jump up to: a b Penton, M. J. Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, pp. 165–171, "In 1967 the society suddenly decided that what had been permissible no longer was. Organ transplants suddenly became a form of human cannibalism ... Yet after many faithful Jehovah's Witnesses had suffered for their faith by giving up transplants which in some cases could have made their lives more pleasant and comfortable and by saving them from early death in others, the society again reversed itself."
242.Jump up ^ "Keep Abstaining from Blood", Awake!, July 8, 1972, page 28, "The stand of the Christian witnesses of Jehovah—that such transplants are in effect a form of cannibalism—proved a safeguard. How so? In that it spared them much frustration, grief and anxiety, which were experienced not only by the patients and their relatives but even by many of the assisting medical personnel."
243.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, February 1, 1955, page 95, "However, from our present chronology (which is admitted imperfect) at best the fall of the year 1976 would be the end of 6,000 years of human history for mankind... Obviously, whatever amount of Adam’s 930 years was lived before the beginning of that seventh-day rest of Jehovah, that unknown amount would have to be added to the 1976 date."
244.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1889, pages 127-128. "long enough [for Adam] to realize his lack of a companion" and an additional "two years would not be an improbable estimate" to have passed between Adam's creation and Edenic expulsion (beginning the seventh creative day).
245.Jump up ^ "Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1968, page 499-500
246.Jump up ^ Watchtower, June 1, 1973, page 340.
247.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, March 15, 1980, page 31.
248.Jump up ^ John Dart, "Defectors Feel Witnsses' Wrath", Los Angeles Times, January 30, 1982, Part II, page 4, "The Sept. 15 Watchtower magazine told members that anyone who has written a letter of resignation should be shunned as if he had been 'disfellowshipped', or expelled ... 'This is a hardening, a tightening, of our policy,' confirmed William Van De Wall, a headquarters spokesman for the Watchtower Society. Denying any great membership losses, Van De Wall said the new directive was to counteract 'disgruntled' ex-members."
249.Jump up ^ “Seek Peace and Pursue It”, The Watchtower, July 15, 1983, page 25
250.Jump up ^ "Questions from readers", The Watctower, January 1, 1987, page 30, "A study of the fulfillment of Bible prophecy and of our location in the stream of time strongly indicate that each of the creative days is 7,000 years long. It is understood that Christ’s reign of a thousand years will bring to a close God’s 7,000-year ‘rest day,’ the last ‘day’ of the creative week. Based on this reasoning, the entire creative week would be 49,000 years long."
251.Jump up ^ "Creation", Insight, volume 1, 1988 Watch Tower, page 545, "Since the seventh day has been continuing for thousands of years, it may reasonably be concluded that each of the six creative periods, or days, was at least thousands of years in length ... Ascribing not just 24 hours but a longer period of time, thousands of years, to each of the creative days better harmonizes with the evidence found in the earth itself."
252.Jump up ^ All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 286.
253.Jump up ^ Man's Salvation Out of World Distress at Hand!, pages 167–168 (1975)
254.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, April 15, 1992, pages 12–17
255.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1995, page 20.
256.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, June 1, 1997, page 28: "The recent information in The Watchtower about "this generation" did not change our understanding of what occurred in 1914. But it did give us a clearer grasp of Jesus' use of the term "generation," helping us to see that his usage was no basis for calculating-counting from 1914 – how close to the end we are."
257.Jump up ^ Joel P. Engardio (December 18, 1995), Apocalypse Later, Newsweek
258.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 317
259.Jump up ^ John Dart, "Jehovah's Witnesses Abandon Key Tenet", Los Angeles Times, November 4, 1995.
260.Jump up ^ Watchtower, February 1, 1995.
261.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 316
262.Jump up ^ "Part 2—Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 25
263.Jump up ^ "Chapter 24: Why Jesus Came to Earth", The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, ©1991, "Jesus came to earth particularly to preach about God’s Kingdom, which will vindicate his Father’s name"
264.Jump up ^ Watchtower, February 15, 1995, p.19.
265.Jump up ^ Watchtower, May 1, 2007, pages 30-31: "It appears that we can not set a specific date for when the calling of Christians to the heavenly hope ends."
266.Jump up ^ "Watchtower", February 15, 2008, pages 23-24: "On the other hand, Christ's faithful anointed brothers, the modern-day John class, have recognized this sign as if it were a flash of lightning and have understood its true meaning. As a class, these anointed ones make up the modern-day "generation" of contemporaries that will not pass away "until all these things occur."* This suggests that some who are Christ's anointed brothers will still be alive on earth when the foretold great tribulation begins."
267.Jump up ^ Holy spirit's role in the outworking of Jehovah's purposes, The Watchtower, 15 April 2010: 10
268.Jump up ^ "Your Leader Is One, the Christ". The Watchtower: 23. September 15, 2010.
269.Jump up ^ "Annual Meeting Report".
270.Jump up ^ The Watchtower: 20–25. July 15, 2013.
271.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 480–488
272.Jump up ^ Holden, p. 32
273.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 253
274.Jump up ^ Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954, page 119.
275.Jump up ^ ibid, page 346
Bibliography[edit]
Barbour, N. H. (1877), Three Worlds, and the Harvest of This World, N. H. Barbour, C. T. Russell
Crompton, Robert (1996), Counting the Days to Armageddon, Cambridge: James Clarke & Co, ISBN 0-227-67939-3
Franz, Raymond (2002), Crisis of Conscience, Commentary Press, Fourth edition, ISBN 0-914675-23-0
Franz, Raymond (2007), In Search of Christian Freedom, Commentary Press, ISBN 0-914675-17-6
Holden, Andrew (2002), Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement, Routledge, ISBN 0-415-26610-6
Penton, M. James (1997), Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.), University of Toronto Press, ISBN 0-8020-7973-3
Rogerson, Alan (1969), Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses, Constable & Co, London, ISBN 978-0-09-455940-0
Russell, C. T. (1886), The Divine Plan of the Ages, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Russell, C. T. (1889), The Time Is At Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Russell, C. T. (1891), Thy Kingdom Come, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Rutherford, J. F. (1930), Light, Book 1, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society (1993), Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Wills, Tony (2006), A People For His Name, Lulu Enterprises, ISBN 978-1-4303-0100-4
 



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 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Development_of_Jehovah%27s_Witnesses_doctrine














Development of Jehovah's Witnesses doctrine
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
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 and Tract Society
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Leadership dispute
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Unfulfilled predictions

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Salvation ·
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The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
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The Watchtower ·
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New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

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Kingdom Hall ·
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People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


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Supreme Court cases
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The doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses have developed since publication of The Watchtower magazine began in 1879. Early doctrines were based on interpretations of the Bible by Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society founder Charles Taze Russell, then added to, altered or discarded by his successors, Joseph Rutherford and Nathan Knorr. Since 1976, doctrinal changes have been made at closed meetings of the religion's Governing Body,[1] whose decisions are described as "God's progressive revelations"[2] to the faithful and discreet slave.[3][4] These teachings are disseminated through The Watchtower, and at conventions and congregation meetings. Most members of the religion outside the Governing Body play no role in the development of doctrines[5] and are expected to adhere to all those decided at Brooklyn headquarters.[6][7][8] Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to welcome changes to their religion's doctrine, regarding such "adjustments" as "new light" or "new understanding" from God and proving that they are on the "path of the righteous".[9][10]



Contents  [hide]
1 Method of doctrinal development
2 Watch Tower Society founding doctrines 2.1 Millennialist teachings
3 Timeline of doctrinal changes 3.1 Doctrines unchanged since 1879
3.2 1880–1889
3.3 1890–1899
3.4 1900–1909
3.5 1910–1919
3.6 1920–1929
3.7 1930–1939
3.8 1940–1949
3.9 1950–1959
3.10 1960–1969
3.11 1970–1979
3.12 1980–1989
3.13 1990-1999
3.14 2000–2009
3.15 2010–2019
4 Criticism
5 See also
6 References
7 Bibliography

Method of doctrinal development[edit]
Some core beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses have remained unchanged throughout the religion's history. Certain doctrines, particularly relating to biblical chronology, were based on what Russell called a "venerable tradition" that he conceded was not directly confirmed by facts or scripture, but "based on faith".[11][12] Watch Tower publications claim that doctrinal changes and refinements result from a process of progressive revelation, in which God gradually reveals his will and purpose.[13][14][15][16] Watch Tower literature has suggested such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study,[17] the guidance of holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels.[18] Rutherford spoke of spiritual "lightning flashes in the temple",[19] the Society claims its doctrine of the "great crowd" and "other sheep" were "revealed" to "God’s earthly servants" in 1935,[20][21] and Witness literature has also described sudden changes in doctrines as "flashes of light" given by God through his holy spirit.[22] A 1930 publication claimed God used "invisible deputies" and "invisible angels" to pass his "messages" to The Watchtower,[23][24] although The Watchtower told Witnesses it was not necessary for them to understand how this took place.[25] A 1973 policy change to disfellowship tobacco users was explained as a decision that "Jehovah has brought to the attention of his 'holy' people".[26]
Watch Tower publications often cite Proverbs 4:18, "The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established" (NWT) when explaining the need to change doctrines.[27] The organization's earlier literature has included claims that its predictions about dates such as 1925 were "indisputable",[28] "absolutely and unqualifiedly correct"[29] and bearing "the stamp of approval of Almighty God",[29] but the Governing Body which was established later says its teachings are neither infallibile nor divinely inspired.[30][31][32]
Robert Crompton, author of a book on Watch Tower eschatology, has noted that it is difficult to trace the development of doctrines because explicit changes are often not identified in Jehovah's Witness literature, leaving readers to assume which details have been superseded.[33] Edmund C. Gruss, a critic of the religion, found that a 1943 Watch Tower Society publication that established a new creation chronology, changing the date of Adam's creation by 100 years, made no mention of the old time reckoning, which had previously been said to be "correct beyond a doubt".[34]
Watch Tower Society founding doctrines[edit]
From the first issue of Zion's Watch Tower in July 1879, Russell began publicising a number of doctrines, many of them drawn from Adventist teachings, including the atonement, resurrection, the soul, the invisible parousia (or return) of Christ[35] and God's "plan of the ages".[36] Russell taught that mankind was to be redeemed not from torment but from the death penalty that had been imposed on Adam and subsequently passed on to all his descendants. He wrote that Christ's "ransom for all" mentioned in 1 Timothy 2:5 would be applied to all humankind rather than just the righteously inclined.[37][38] Christ's death provided the ransom payment to free humans from death.[39] He believed an elect few would be resurrected to serve as a heavenly priesthood and all humans who had died would be resurrected to earth, which would be restored to Edenic perfection.[40]
Millennialist teachings[edit]
The dominant and central theme of Russell's teachings concerned the timing, nature and purpose of Christ's second coming.[41] His beliefs on the timing of Christ's Advent and God's overarching plan for humans had gained their first exposure in Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World, a book he paid Millerite Adventist Nelson H. Barbour to write in 1877.[42] Russell and Barbour parted company in 1879 and from 1886 Russell began writing his own books that further developed his Millennialist beliefs.
Russell's doctrines on the Millennium followed a tradition of interpretation of Scripture that had begun in the 1st century, when Jewish rabbis sought to identify the due time for the appearance of the Messiah by interpreting the prophecy of the 70 weeks of years of Daniel 9:24-27. Their approach to prophetic interpretation was based on the Day-year principle, drawn from Ezekiel 4 and Numbers 14, in which one day in prophecy represents one year in fulfillment.[43] Such teachings were revived and popularised in the early 19th century by American Adventist preacher William Miller.
Russell also incorporated Miller's teaching of types and antitypes, in which an actual historical situation (the type) prefigures a corresponding situation (the antitype),[44] as well as a modified version of John Nelson Darby's teachings on dispensationalism. Russell modified Darby's teachings to create his own doctrine of parallel dispensations, in which the timing of certain events in the Jewish age are a prophetic indication of corresponding events at the close of the Gospel age.[45] He believed the internal harmony of his "plan of the ages" proved its validity beyond reasonable doubt, noting that a change of just one year would destroy the parallelisms,[46] and found further confirmation in internal measurements of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which he viewed as a divinely built supporting witness to the Bible.[47][48]
The main points of his doctrines on Bible chronology were:
Seventy weeks of years: Russell believed the Adventist interpretation of the prophecy of the 70 weeks "until Messiah the Prince" at Daniel 9:24-27 could be used to demonstrate the validity of the year-for-a-day rule. He took 454 BCE as the date of Artaxerxes' decree to rebuild Jerusalem, and by converting 69 weeks of seven days (483 days) to 483 years arrived at 29 CE as the beginning of Jesus' ministry. Christ's crucifixion took place at the midpoint of the 70th week; the covenant with the Jewish nation remained in force another "week" (seven years) from the beginning of his ministry and its end was signified by the conversion of Cornelius in 36, when the Gospel was taken to the Gentiles.[49]
Times of the Gentiles: Using the year-for-a-day rule, Russell adopted and adjusted the teachings of Miller and Englishman John Aquila Brown, who both taught that the chastisement of the Israelites "seven times" for their sins (at Leviticus 26) indicated a period of 2520 years—seven prophetic years of 360 days each. In Russell's chronology system the period began with the deposing of Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, an event that marked the end of the typical Kingdom of God and beginning of the consequent lease of earthly dominion to Gentile governments, as foretold in Ezekiel 21:25-27. Russell calculated that Zedekiah's removal occurred in 606 BCE, and therefore claimed the "times of the Gentiles" ran from that date until 1914, when the kingdom would be re-established on earth under Jewish leadership. The end of the Gentile times would be marked by a return of the Jews to Palestine. Russell believed the period was also one of degradation for mankind in general, which he believed was prefigured by the account in Daniel 4 of Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree being cut down and restrained from growth for seven years.[50][51]
The time of the end: Miller had formulated doctrines drawn from Daniel 12:4,9 on the "time of the end", when the meaning of certain prophecies would be finally revealed. Russell made a slight amendment to the teaching, explaining that it began in 1799[52] when French general Berthier entered Rome, abolished papal government and established the Republic of Italy.[53] The "time of the end" would last 115 years to 1914.[54] The 1799 date, in turn, had been established by linking the 1260 days of Revelation 11:3 with time periods mentioned in Daniel 2, 7, and 12. Using the year-day principle, the period indicated 1260 years from 539 (when Justinian I recognised the pope as universal bishop) to 1799.[55][56]
Great Jubilee: Russell adopted and amended Miller's teaching of a secondary indicator of the due date for the Millennium. The ancient Jewish law provided for a series of sabbaths, each culminating in the Jubilee year in the 50th year, when slaves were released and leased property returned to its rightful owners.[57] Like Miller, Russell believed the arrangement foreshadowed the release of humans from the debt of sin and bondage through the intervention of Christ.[58] He taught that the Millennium was the antitypical Great Jubilee (the 50th 50-year jubilee) and marked the beginning of the second presence of Christ. Using his calculations of the date of the last jubilee before the Jewish exile, he added 2500 years (50 x 50) and calculated it had begun at the end of 1874.[59]
The greath sabbath: Russell embraced Miller's view that because "one day is with the Lord as a thousand years",[60] the seventh thousand-year period after creation would be a 1000-year-long sabbath "day". But whereas Miller had believed 1843 was 6000 years after creation,[61] Russell believed Adam was created in 4129 BC[62] and calculated 1872 as the end of 6000 years. He thought it reasonable that Adam and Eve had lived two years in Eden before sinning, and thus calculated the 6000 years ran from the time sin entered the world to October 1874, when Christ had returned and the times of restitution began.[63]
Parallel dispensations: Russell expanded Darby's doctrine of dispensationalism, explaining that events that befell the Jewish nation were prophetic counterparts of events during the Gospel age, with the timing of those events also having prophetic significance. He argued that the Jews had enjoyed 1845 years of favor from the death of Jacob to 33 CE[64] (the Jewish Age) and they would have to endure the same length of time in God's disfavor—thus from 33 to 1878 (the Gospel Age).[65] The Jews' fall from favour was gradual, spanning 37 years from 33 to 70, when Jerusalem was destroyed, and that period corresponded to a gradual restoration of God's favour to them between 1878 and 1914.[66] But although the Jewish nation's fall began in 33, God's favor towards individual Jews continued another 3½ years from Pentecost, during which time the gospel call was limited to Jews. That typified a 3½-year opportunity from 1878 until 1881 when the "high calling" or invitation to become joint heirs with Christ closed. The 3½-year period between Christ's anointing as Messiah and his riding into Jerusalem on an ass, being acclaimed as king and cleansing the temple of money-changers typified the period between his parousia (1874) and his assuming kingly power and rejection of "nominal church systems" (1878).[67] The 40-year "harvest" of the Jewish Age from 29–69 typified a 40-year harvest of the Gospel Age from 1874 to 1914.[68] The Jews expectation of the Messiah's arrival at the time of Jesus' birth, 30 years before his anointing,[69] was correlated with the Great Disappointment, the failure of Miller's prediction of the second coming of Christ in 1844, 30 years before the date indicated by Russell's system.[70]
Timeline of doctrinal changes[edit]
Doctrines unchanged since 1879[edit]
Biblical infallibility. Early copies of Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence made reference to the Bible as God's "infallible Word".[71]
God's name is Jehovah. Watch Tower Society founder Charles Taze Russell used the name "Jehovah" occasionally, but not consistently, when referring to God.[72]
Jesus Christ gave his human life as a ransom sacrifice; belief in Jesus necessary for salvation. Russell believed that God's design for mankind was a restitution or restoration to the perfection and glory lost in Eden. This depended on God providing a ransom for all mankind to release them from the inevitability of death. Christ became that ransom sacrifice.[73][74]
The timing of Christ's Second Coming, or "presence", can be calculated through Bible chronology. Russell believed the timing of Christ's advent could be calculated by determining the length and termination point of the "Gentile Times"[75][76] and also by calculating the close of six "thousand-year days" (6000 years) of human history, at which point God's Kingdom would be established.[62][77][78][79][80]
Christ's return to earth was invisible. Russell claimed the Greek word parousia (Matthew 24:37) referred to a period of time, rendered more accurately as "presence" than "coming"[81]
Paradise earth to be restored, humans to live forever.[82][83][84]
Evolution is a teaching contrary to the Bible and denies the need of redemption by Christ.[85][need quotation to verify][86]
Humans created as living souls.[87]
The dead are unconscious, awaiting resurrection.[88]
Anointed individuals are resurrected to heaven with spirit bodies.[89]
God's Kingdom is an organized heavenly government over earth, ruled by Jesus and the anointed.[90]
1880–1889[edit]
1880: Clergy-laity distinction viewed as unscriptural.[91]
1881: Rejection of the Trinity doctrine.[92][93][94] Russell claimed the Trinity doctrine had "not a word of Scripture" to support it. He explained: "We understand the Scriptures to teach that the holy Spirit is not a separate and distinct person, but that it is the divine mind or influence—the motive power of Divinity exercised everywhere and for any purpose, at His pleasure."[95][96][97] In 1877 Russell and co-author N. H. Barbour had criticized the anti-Trinitarian view of the Christadelphians;[98] an 1880 book by Zion's Watch Tower writer J. H. Paton emphasised that the Holy Spirit was a person[99] and early Watch Tower issues referred to the Holy Spirit as "he"[100][101][102] and part of the "Divine Three".[103]
1881: Faith alone is not enough for someone's becoming a joint-heir with Christ in heaven, but also a life of "self-sacrifice in the service of the truth" is required.[104]
1882: No hellfire. According to Russell, most references to "hell" in the New Testament were more accurately translated as "grave".[105][106]
1887: The New Covenant, which Russell had claimed since 1880 would be inaugurated only after the last of the 144,000 anointed Christians had been taken to heaven,[107] was said to be "now in force".[108][109]
1890–1899[edit]
1890: The "Time of the End" of Daniel 12:4 is identified as beginning in October 1799—when Napoleon invaded Egypt and ended the power of the papacy—and closing in 1914, at which point violent worldwide revolution would mark the end of the old world order and the beginning of a new one.[110]
1891: Biblical rapture is not a sudden event. The anointed are changed into spirit form, throughout the whole period of Christ's presence, at the time of each one's physical death.[111][112]
1897: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36 defined as "people living contemporaneously."[113]
1900–1909[edit]
1904: Worldwide descent into anarchy and disintegration of human rule, previously predicted to occur in October 1914,[114][115] changed to "after October 1914".[116]
1904: 144,000 "elect" to go to heaven. Russell believed God had chosen a "fixed and limited ... number who should constitute the New Creation of God". God had not foreordained individuals, but those who met his "moral qualities and heart measurements" would be chosen to go to heaven.[117][118]
1904: "Great Company" of Revelation 7:9, 14 identified as a secondary spiritual class who have "insufficient zeal for the Lord, the Truth and the brethren" who are granted heavenly life, but on a lower spiritual plane.[119] In heaven they serve as servants rather than kings and priests.[120][121]
1907: The inauguration of the New Covenant described as belonging "exclusively to the coming age."[122] Russell began to teach that the "church" (144,000 anointed Christians) had no mediator, but itself joined Christ as a joint messiah and mediator during the millennium.[109][123]
1910–1919[edit]
1914: Length of each creative 'day' of Genesis defined as precisely 7000 years.[124]
1914: Russell "by no means confident" 1914 would bring the upheaval he had predicted.[125]
1916: Timing of Armageddon, previously claimed to have begun in 1874 and to culminate in 1914,[126][127] changed to have begun in 1914.[128][129]
1919: Preaching work displaces "character development" as the "chief concern" of Bible Students. Russell had taught that Christians should embark on the gradual process of "sanctification" and personality improvement to fight sinful inclinations[130][131] In 1919 The Watch Tower declared that the primary concern for Bible Students was to labor with God to find members of the elect class.[132]
1919: The seven angels, or "messengers", of Revelation chapters 1 and 2 are identified "for the first time in the history of the church" as St Paul, St John, Arius, Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, Martin Luther and Charles Taze Russell.[133]
1920–1929[edit]
1920: Jesus Christ's crowning as king of God's kingdom, previously 1878,[134] changed to 1914.[135]
1920: The preaching of the gospel of the kingdom "in all the world for a witness unto all nations", (Matthew 24:14), previously claimed to have already been completed,[136] identified as a work for modern-day anointed Christians.[137]
1922: Establishment of God's kingdom over earth, previously expected to result in the destruction of human governments and a "new rule of righteousness" by the end of 1914[138] changed to an invisible event in heaven in 1914.[139][140]
1923: "Sheep class", mentioned at Matthew 25:31-46 defined as those who do good to "elect" class and are rewarded by surviving Armageddon and gaining life under Christ's thousand-year reign.[141][142][143] Russell had previously applied the parable to the work of dividing the people in the Millennial Age.[144]
1923: Limitations placed on extent of Christ's ransom and resurrection hope. Russell had taught that Christ had provided a ransom for all; a 1923 Watch Tower article asserted that clergymen would not be resurrected and benefit from the ransom;[145] later articles claimed that benefits of the ransom would also be denied to Adam and Eve; those who died in the Noachian flood; those who died at Sodom and Gomorrah; both the falls of Jerusalem and those who will die at Armageddon.[146]
1925: Armageddon identified as a battle between God and Satan, resulting in the overthrow of human governments and false religion. Armageddon had previously been understood to mean a "melee between contending forces of mankind", resulting in social revolution and political anarchy.[147][148][149][150][151][152]
1925: Michael, the dragon and the man-child in Revelation chapter 12, previously defined as the Pope, the Roman Empire and the papacy, redefined as Jesus, Satan and the New Nation (or Kingdom), respectively.[153][154]
1926: Use of name Jehovah, previously used sparingly at assemblies and in public preaching, given new emphasis. Announced in January 1, 1926 issue of The Watchtower.[155]
1926: "Satan's organization" defined as the rulers of politics, commerce and religion and all their followers.[156]
1927: "First resurrection" of "sleeping saints", previously 1878,[157] changed to 1918.[158][159]
1927: Identification of "time of the end" as a 115-year period from 1799 to 1914 discontinued.[160] Final reference appeared in J. F. Rutherford's Creation (1927).[161]
1927: "Faithful and wise servant" of Matthew 24:45-47, previously defined as Russell since 1897,[162][163][164][165] changed to a "class" comprising all remaining "anointed" Christians.[166]
1927: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36, previously defined as "people living contemporaneously"[113] changed to a remnant of the "anointed" on earth during Armageddon.[167]
1928: Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, previously regarded as a testimony to the Bible and its chronology,[48][168] declared to have no prophetic significance and built under the direction of Satan.[169]
1928: Celebration of Christmas, previously embraced as a "tribute of respect" to Christ,[170][171] discontinued because of its "pagan origin".[172]
1929: Honoring of God's name described as "the outstanding issue facing all intelligent creation".[173]
1929: "Superior authorities" of Romans 13:1 to whom Christians had to show subjection and obedience, previously defined as governmental authorities, redefined as God and Christ only.[174][175] Secular state then regarded as demonic and almost without redeeming features.[176]
1929: Beginning of "Time of the End" of Daniel 12:4 changed from 1799 to 1914.[177]
1930–1939[edit]
1931: Adoption of the name "Jehovah's witnesses".[178]
1932: Assertion that God's Holy Spirit ceased operating on his people when "[Jesus] the Lord came to his temple, in 1918",[179][180] at which point Jesus 'took charge of feeding the flock'.[181]
1932: The "Jews" who will be restored to their homeland, previously defined as literal Jews,[182] redefined as the Christian congregation.[176][183][184]
1932: Identification of "Jonadabs", a "sheep" class of people who take a stand for righteousness and who are to be preserved by God through Armageddon to gain everlasting life on earth. The term was drawn from the account at 2 Kings 10.[185] In 1920 Rutherford had written that it was "unreasonable" to think God was developing any class other than the little flock (the 144,000 to attain heavenly kingship) and the "great company" (second spiritual class also with a heavenly hope). In 1934 the Watchtower explained that the "Jonadabs" survive Armageddon by living in the figurative "City of refuge", represented by remaining affiliated with the Watch Tower Society.[186]
1932: Watch Tower Society adherents with an earthly hope should join the worldwide preaching work.[187] In 1927 The Watchtower had directed that only anointed Christians were "entitled" to take part in the ministry.[188]
1933: Christ's parousia – his second coming or invisible "presence" – previously established as 1874 and reaffirmed as late as 1929,[189] changed to 1914.[190]
1934: Vindication of God's name becomes central doctrine.[191] Rutherford noted that God had provided Jesus Christ's sacrifice as the redemption price for sinful humankind, but wrote that this was "secondary to the vindication of Jehovah's name".[192]
1934: The 1917 teaching that Russell was exercising strong influence from heaven on the "harvesting" of anointed Christians[193] described as "foolish".[194]
1935: "Great crowd" of Revelation 7 defined as the "sheep" of Matthew 25, resulting in a redirection of proselytizing efforts from gathering the "elect" (remnant of the 144,000 with a heavenly destiny) to gathering an indeterminate number of people who could survive Armageddon and receive everlasting life on earth. Previously, the "great crowd" was believed to have a heavenly hope.[141][195]
1935: Tobacco use "unclean" and prohibited for Bethel (branch office) staff and traveling overseers.[196]
1935: Vaccines, described since 1921 as "devilish" and "an outrage",[197][198] condemned as a violation of God's law.[199]
1936: Device on which Jesus was killed, previously defined as a wooden cross, redefined as a "tree".[200] An image of the cross appeared on the front page of The Watch Tower until October 1931.[201]
1937: Jehovah's Witnesses with an earthly hope could be described as "Christian".[202] In 1930 the Watchtower had asserted that the term "Christian" could be applied only to anointed followers of Christ.[203]
1938: God's mandate to "be fruitful and multiply" said to apply only after the start of the millennium. The Watchtower said the mandate had never been carried out under righteous conditions, and so had failed to be fulfilled according to God's will. Rutherford urged Witnesses to delay marriage and the bearing of children until after Armageddon.[204]
1939: Witnesses required to demonstrate complete neutrality in worldly affairs.[205]
1940–1949[edit]
1942: Tobacco prohibition applied to all appointed positions, such as congregation overseers and servants.[206]
1943: Destruction of Jerusalem moved from 606 BCE to 607 BCE, when the Watch Tower Society realised there was no year zero between 1 BCE and 1 CE, in order to maintain calculations regarding 1914; return of the Jews from Babylon to Jerusalem moved from 536 BCE to 537 BCE to maintain 70 years after 607 BCE.[207][208]
1943: Adam's creation, previously 4129 BCE[209] or 4128 BCE,[210] moved forward 100 years to 4028 BCE. The shift in dates also moved the termination point of 6,000 years of human history from October 1872[211] to 1972.[212][213]
1944: Responsibility for administering discipline, including disfellowshipping, of dissident members passed from entire congregation to congregational judicial committees.[214][215] Russell had recommended in a 1904 publication that a congregation "committee" investigate a congregant's serious "error or sin", but the entire congregation voted whether "to withdraw from him its fellowship".[216]
1944: Adam's creation, previously 4028 BCE, changed to 4026 BCE.[217]
1945: Blood transfusions forbidden.[218][219] Russell had viewed the prohibition on eating blood in Acts 15:19-29 as a "suggestion" to gentile Christians in order to "guard against stumbling themselves or becoming stumbling blocks to others"[220] and ensure peace within the early church.[221]
1950–1959[edit]
1951: "This generation" of Matthew 23:36, previously defined as a remnant of the "anointed" on earth during Armageddon[167] changed to "a 'generation' in the ordinary sense" who were alive in 1914.[222]
1951: Celebration of birthdays considered "objectionable" because celebrations are "steeped in false worship" and exalt humans.[223]
1952: Vaccines, previously condemned, considered acceptable.[224][225]
1953: Adam's creation, previously 4026 BCE, changed to 4025 BCE. End of God's 6,000-year "rest day" ending in northern hemisphere autumn 1976.[226]
1954: Worship of Jesus, previously considered appropriate and necessary,[227][228][229] deemed inappropriate, with the New World Translation translating proskyne′ō as "do obeisance to" rather than "worship" (King James Version).[230]
1955: Operation of Holy Spirit, asserted in 1932 to have ceased in 1918, stated as having been still operative after 1918.[231]
1960–1969[edit]
1961: Acceptance of blood transfusion deemed a disfellowshipping offence.[232] Acceptance of human organ transplant stipulated a personal matter to be decided without criticism.[233]
1962: "Superior authorities" of Romans 13:1 redefined as earthly governments, reverting the 1929 change[234] to Russell's 1886 teaching.[235] A year earlier, Russell's view was considered to have made the Watch Tower Bible Students unclean in God's eyes.[174][236]
1963: Adam's creation changed back to 4026 BCE.[237] End of 6,000 years of human history due in northern hemisphere autumn 1975.[238]
1967: Human organ transplants equated with cannibalism,[239] "a practice abhorrent to all civilized people", and said to be a procedure not permitted by God.[240] The Watchtower article announcing the view is interpreted by commentators as a prohibition.[9][241] In a 1972 article, Jehovah's Witnesses are described as having taken a "stand" against organ transplants, saving them from the consequences of such operations, on the basis of the description of the procedure as "a form of cannibalism".[242]
1968: Interval between Adam's creation and the close of the sixth creative "day", previously "quite some time",[213][217][243][244] changed to "a comparatively short period of time" that "may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years." The change led to expectations that Christ's 1,000 year reign could begin in 1975.[245]
1970–1979[edit]
1973: Tobacco use banned. Tobacco users not to be accepted for baptism and baptized Witnesses to be disfellowshipped if they continue to smoke after "a reasonable period of time, such as six months".[246]
1980–1989[edit]
1980: Acceptance of human organ transplants stipulated as a matter of personal choice not warranting congregational discipline. View of transplants as cannibalism now said to be held only by "some Christians".[247] The Watchtower article is regarded by commentators as a reversal of Society's 1967 position that the procedure is not permitted by God.[9][241]
1981: Members who formally resign membership of the religion (disassociate) are to be shunned in the same manner as disfellowshipped Witnesses.[248]
1983: Martial arts and carrying "firearms for protection against humans" disqualify a Witness from "special privileges in the congregation", such as appointment as elder.[249]
1988: Length of creative 'days' in Genesis, previously defined as exactly 7,000 years each,[250] changed to "at least thousands of years in length" [emphasis added][251]
1990-1999[edit]
1990: Interval between Adam's creation and the close of the sixth creative "day" changed to "some time", employing a 1963 reference rather than the 1968 change.[252]
1992: The "modern-day Nethinim", previously defined as synonymous with the "other sheep",[253] redefined as a subset of the "other sheep" who serve in positions of authority within the organization as "helpers" to the Governing Body.[254]
1995: "This generation" at Matthew 23:36, previously defined as a typical human lifespan since Jesus' parousia in 1914,[222] redefined as a class of people displaying certain characteristics for an indefinite period of time.[255][256][257][258][259]
1995: Fulfillment of Jesus' parable of the separating of sheep and goats, previously considered to have been ongoing since 1914, changed to after the start of the 'great tribulation'.[260][261]
1995: The expression "vindication of Jehovah’s name" declared unnecessary, with emphasis on "vindicating his sovereignty" and "sanctifying his name" as being more accurate.[262] The former expression had not appeared in any publication since 1991.[263]
2000–2009[edit]
2007: Selection of the 144,000 "anointed", previously considered to have ended in 1935,[264] changed to an indefinite period.[265]
2008: "This generation" redefined as "anointed" believers, who will "not pass away" before the great tribulation begins.[266] This was a return to the belief held in 1927.[167]
2010–2019[edit]
2010: "This generation" redefined to refer to a new generation of "anointed" whose lives "overlap" with "the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914".[267]
2012: "Faithful and discreet slave", previously defined as synonymous with the "anointed" and represented by the Governing Body,[268] redefined to refer to the Governing Body only. The "domestics", previously defined as each member of the "anointed" individually, redefined as including all members of the "anointed" and the "great crowd". The "evil slave" of Matthew 24:48, previously defined as former "anointed" members who reject Jesus, redefined as a hypothetical warning to the "faithful slave".[269][270]
Criticism[edit]
Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz and Sociology lecturer Andrew Holden have pointed out that doctrines—including those relating to sexual behaviour in marriage and the "superior authorities" of Romans 13:4—have sometimes been altered, only to revert to those held decades earlier.[271] Holden, author of a major ethnographic study on the religion, commented: "It could be that many Witnesses have not yet been in the organisation long enough to realise that 'new lights' have a habit of growing dimmer, while old ones are switched back on!"[272] In his study of the Witnesses and their history, Tony Wills has suggested that when third president Nathan H. Knorr altered major doctrines established by his predecessor, J. F. Rutherford, he was returning the Witnesses to many of Russell's teachings. He asked: "How can the Society harmonize this circular development with the claimed progressive development?"[273]
In testimony at a 1954 court case in Scotland, senior Watch Tower Society figures admitted that although doctrines were subject to change if they were later regarded as erroneous, all Witnesses were required to accept current teachings or risk expulsion. Under cross-examination, then Society vice president Fred Franz conceded a Witness could be disfellowshipped and shunned for "causing trouble" over a belief they held that was contrary to Society teaching but subsequently embraced by the religion.[274] Society lawyer Hayden G. Covington told the court that although the Society had for decades published a "false prophecy ... a false statement" about the date of Christ's Second Coming, members of the religion had been required to accept it and any who had rejected it would have been expelled. He explained: "You must understand we must have unity, we cannot have disunity with a lot of people going every way."[275]
See also[edit]
Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
Faithful and discreet slave
Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses
History of Jehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs
Watch Tower Society unfulfilled predictions
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, p. 106
2.Jump up ^ "Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation", Watchtower, June 15, 1964, page 365,"The abundance of spiritual food and the amazing details of Jehovah’s purposes that have been revealed to Jehovah’s anointed witnesses are clear evidence that they are the ones mentioned by Jesus when he foretold a 'faithful and discreet slave' class that would be used to dispense God’s progressive revelations in these last days ... How thankful we should be for the provision God has made of this slave class, the modern spiritual remnant, as they faithfully dispense the revealed truths of Jehovah! ... Jehovah’s faithful witnesses have been progressively brought to an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes, which are clearer now than ever before in history."
3.Jump up ^ "Seek God's guidance in all things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 11.
4.Jump up ^ "How the Governing Body Is Organized", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29.
5.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 152–164
6.Jump up ^ Holden 2002, pp. 22, 10, 158, 163
7.Jump up ^ "The Godly Qualities of Love and Hate". The Watchtower, 15 July 1974, "Christians have implicit trust in their heavenly Father; they do not question what he tells them through his written Word and organization."
8.Jump up ^ "Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today", The Watchtower, February 1, 1952, page 79, "Are we assigned as individuals to bring forth the food for the spiritual table? No? Then let us not try to take over the slave’s duties. We should eat and digest and assimilate what is set before us, without shying away from parts of the food because it may not suit the fancy of our mental taste. The truths we are to publish are the ones provided through the discreet-slave organization, not some personal opinions contrary to what the slave has provided as timely food. Jehovah and Christ direct and correct the slave as needed, not we as individuals. If we do not see a point at first we should keep trying to grasp it, rather than opposing and rejecting it and presumptuously taking the position that we are more likely to be right than the discreet slave. We should meekly go along with the Lord’s theocratic organization and wait for further clarification ... Theocratic ones will appreciate the Lord’s visible organization and not be so foolish as to pit against Jehovah’s channel their own human reasoning and sentiment and personal feelings."
9.^ Jump up to: a b c Osamu Muramoto, "Bioethics of the refusal of blood by Jehovah's Witnesses, part 1", Journal of Medical Ethics, August 1998, Vol 24, Issue 4, page 223-230.
10.Jump up ^ "The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter", The Watchtower, December 1, 1981, pages 26-31.
11.Jump up ^ The Time is At Hand, By C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1891, page B39, "And though the Bible contains no direct statement that the seventh thousand will be the epoch of Christ's reign, the great Sabbath Day of restitution to the world, yet the venerable tradition is not without a reasonable foundation.".
12.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, October 1, 1907, R4067: page 294, "Can we feel absolutely sure that the Chronology set forth in the DAWN-STUDIES is correct? ...we have never claimed our calculations to be infallibly correct; we have never claimed that they were knowledge, nor based upon indisputable evidence, facts, knowledge; our claim has always been that they are based on faith. We have set forth the evidences as plainly as possible and stated the conclusions of faith we draw from them, and have invited others to accept as much or as little of them as their hearts and heads could endorse. ...Possibly some who have read the DAWNS have presented our conclusions more strongly than we; but if so that is their own responsibility."
13.Jump up ^ "Impart God’s Progressive Revelation to Mankind", The Watchtower, March 1, 1965, p. 158-159
14.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, pp. 165–171
15.Jump up ^ "Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 15.
16.Jump up ^ Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society 1993, p. 709
17.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 165
18.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherford, Preparation, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1933, page 64, 67, "Enlightenment proceeds from Jehovah by and through Christ Jesus and is given to the faithful anointed on earth at the temple, and brings great peace and consolation to them. Again Zechariah talked with the angel of the Lord, which shows that the remnant are instructed by the angels of the Lord. The remnant do not hear audible sounds, because such is not necessary. Jehovah has provided his own good way to convey thoughts to the minds of his anointed ones ... Those of the remnant, being honest and true, must say, We do not know; and the Lord enlightens them, sending his angels for that very purpose."
19.Jump up ^ Watchtower 1933, pages 53, 62, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 165.
20.Jump up ^ Life Everlasting in Freedom in the Sons of God Watchtower Society, 1966, page 149, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 165.
21.Jump up ^ "The Things Revealed Belong to Us", The Watchtower, May 15, 1986, pages 10-15, "In 1925 God’s earthly servants became possessors of an accurate understanding... In 1932 their understanding was deepened still further. Jehovah revealed that the prophecies related ...to spiritual Israel, the Christian congregation. (Romans 2:28, 29) Then, in 1935 a corrected understanding of John’s vision of the “great crowd” in Revelation chapter 7 opened the eyes of anointed ones to the huge gathering work that still lay ahead of them.".
22.Jump up ^ "Flashes of Light - Great and Small", Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 17, 18.
23.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 64
24.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 106
25.Jump up ^ Watchtower, December 1, 1933, page 364, "Without doubt these angels are delegated by the Lord to convey his instructions to the members of his organization on earth. Just how this is done is not necessary for us to understand."
26.Jump up ^ "You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy", Watchtower, February 15, 1976, page 123
27.Jump up ^ "Keep in Step With Jehovah’s Organization", Watchtower, January 15, 2001, page 18.
28.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1922, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 228.
29.^ Jump up to: a b Watch Tower, July 15, 1922, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 226.
30.Jump up ^ "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?", The Watchtower, March 1, 1979, pages 23-24.
31.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, October 15, 1954, page 638.
32.Jump up ^ "Name and Purpose of The Watchtower", The Watchtower, August 15, 1950, page 263.
33.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 115
34.Jump up ^ Edmund C. Gruss, The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co, 1972, page 64. Gruss based his comments on The Truth Shall Make You Free, 1943, pages 141-52.
35.Jump up ^ "The Sign of His Presence", Zion's Watch Tower, May 1880.
36.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 26
37.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 5
38.Jump up ^ "If Death Ends All", Zion's Watch Tower, July 1879.
39.Jump up ^ "Why Did Christ Die?", Zion's Watch Tower, November 1879.
40.Jump up ^ "The Royal Priesthood", "If Death Ends All", Zion's Watch Tower, July 1879.
41.Jump up ^ Rogerson 1969, p. 17
42.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 9
43.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 17
44.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 21
45.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 43–48,144
46.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 243–244
47.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 47
48.^ Jump up to: a b Russell 1891, pp. 313–376
49.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 36–37
50.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 74–102
51.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 37–39
52.Jump up ^ Miller's chronology pinpointed the start in 1798, according to Crompton (pg 23).
53.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 21
54.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, pp. 23–60
55.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 23
56.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 69
57.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 25
58.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 177
59.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, pp. 39–41
60.Jump up ^ 2 Peter 3:8.
61.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 25
62.^ Jump up to: a b Russell 1889, p. 53
63.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 127,128
64.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 213
65.Jump up ^ Russell's belief in a "repetition" or doubling of iniquity was drawn from Jeremiah 16:18. See The Time Is At Hand, pg 218.
66.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 221
67.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 235
68.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 105, 150, 222, 234
69.Jump up ^ Luke 3:15.
70.Jump up ^ Crompton 1996, p. 47
71.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, January 1, 1908, page 2.
72.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 492
73.Jump up ^ Russell 1886, pp. 149–172
74.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3821 (reprint).
75.Jump up ^ 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, page 36.
76.Jump up ^ "Who Can Read the Sign Aright?", Watchtower, February 1, 1985, page 10.
77.Jump up ^ Rogerson, Alan (1969), Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses, Constable & Co, London, pp. 17–23, ISBN 978-0-09-455940-0
78.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, pp. 67–77
79.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 20
80.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, pp. 38, 39
81.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, August 1879, Reprints 20, page 3.
82.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Object and Manner of Our Lord's Return, 1877.
83.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, July 1, 1879, p. 7 (reprint).
84.Jump up ^ "Speak the Pure Language and Live Forever!", The Watchtower, May 1, 1991, page 17, "In 1879...a small Bible-study group led by Charles Taze Russell was meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. They had become certain that Jesus’ second coming...would restore Paradise on earth, with eternal life for obedient humans."
85.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3824 (reprint).
86.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Divine Plan of the Ages, 1886, study IX, page 172, "These things are clearly taught in the Scriptures, from beginning to end, and are in direct opposition to the Evolution theory; or, rather, such "babblings of science, falsely so called," are in violent and irreconcilable conflict with the Word of God."
87.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, pp. 6, 42
88.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 42
89.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 165
90.Jump up ^ Barbour 1877, p. 48,49
91.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1880, Watch Tower Reprints page 64 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 2
92.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, April 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 207 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 7, "And why did they thus keep the people in ignorance? Because they feared that if people knew this, the only text which gives even a shadow of support to the doctrine of the TRINITY, to be an interpolation to support a papal error, they might renounce the error".
93.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, September 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 278 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 132, "As to the motives and errors which may have led to these unwarranted interpolations of the [Bible] text, we may be able to offer a suggestion, viz., the last mentioned (1 John 5:7,8) was probably intended to give authority and sanction to the doctrine of the "Trinity."
94.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 1881, Watch Tower Reprints page 290 As Retrieved 2009-09-23, page 4, ""He gave his only begotten Son." This phraseology brings us into conflict with an old Babylonian theory, viz.: Trinitarianism. If that doctrine is true, how could there be any Son to give? A begotten Son, too? Impossible. If these three are one, did God send himself? And how could Jesus say: "My Father is greater than I." John 14:28. [emphasis retained from original]"
95.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, July 1882, Reprints 370, page 3.
96.Jump up ^ Penton, M. J. (1997), Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.), University of Toronto Press, p. 343, note 64, "Barbour and Paton were trinitarians ... although Henry Grew and George Stetson, two others who had influenced him, were non–trinitarians, Russell did not take a stand on the matter, at least publicly, until after his split with Paton."
97.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 120.
98.Jump up ^ N. H. Barbour, C. T. Russell, Three Worlds, 1877, page 57, "I am beginning to think Age-to-come people, and many others among pre-millennialists, do not believe in anything of a spiritual nature, or have the most remote comprehension of things of that order; either that the saint is raised 'a spiritual body,' or in the existence of spiritual beings, or even of the Holy Spirit itself. I know one class of age-to-come believers, the Christadelphians, do not. The Holy Spirit, say they, is but a principle, or element of power, and not an intelligence. It is nothing more nor less than 'electricity;' is taught in one of their books, now before me. What wonder they discern only a fleshly future."
99.Jump up ^ J. H. Paton, Day Dawn, A.D. Jones, 1880, page 225, 229, "The work of the Holy Spirit is one of the most important elements in the plan of revelation and salvation. He is always spoken of by the Saviour as a Person, and is called the " Spirit of truth." We will follow the Saviour's example in this, though we do not propose to deal with the philosophy of that fact. He being the Spirit of truth, it is His mission to make known the truth."
100.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, July 1880, page 8, "But the Spirit cannot resign his work until it is complete."
101.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, August 1880, page 4, "Then let the Spirit use his sword upon others as he may see fit to humble them, strip them of pride, and bring them to the rock that is higher than they."
102.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, November 1880, page 8, "The Spirit is still our leader and instructor. He is now telling us of Him who comes by way of unseen presence that He is here present."
103.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, March 1881, page 5, "The number three is surprisingly prominent, as the subject opens before us ... We would first call attention to the Divine Three – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – often mentioned in the Bible."
104.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3825 (reprint).
105.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, May 1882, Reprints 356, page 8.
106.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, September 1882, Reprints 392, page 4.
107.Jump up ^ "The Three Great Covenants", Zion's Watch Tower, March 1880.
108.Jump up ^ "The New Covenant vs the Law Covenant", Zion's Watch Tower, September 1887.
109.^ Jump up to: a b Wills 2006, pp. 63–68
110.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, pp. 38,47–59
111.Jump up ^ Rusell 1891, pp. 239–242
112.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell, "Haverst Gatherings and Siftings", Zion's Watch Tower, July 15, 1906, p. 3823 (reprint).
113.^ Jump up to: a b Studies in the Scriptures 4. pp. 602–603.
114.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 78
115.Jump up ^ "The Outlook - War & Prosperity", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, September 15, 1901 (R2876 page 292)
116.Jump up ^ "Universal Anarchy", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, July 1, 1904 (R3389 page 197)
117.Jump up ^ The New Creation, (Volume VI of Studies in the Scriptures), 1904, page 179: “We have every reason to believe that the definite, fixed number of the elect [chosen anointed ones] is that several times stated in Revelation (7:4; 14:1); namely, 144,000 ‘redeemed from amongst men."
118.Jump up ^ "The Great Company", Zion's Watch Tower, October 15, 1904.
119.Jump up ^ The New Creation, (Volume VI of Studies in the Scriptures), 1904, page 168-170.
120.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, pp. 57, 58
121.Jump up ^ "The Rank of the Ancient Worthies", "The Great Company", Zion's Watch Tower, October 15, 1904.
122.Jump up ^ "Our Advocate, the World's Mediator," Zion's Watch Tower, January 1, 1907.
123.Jump up ^ "The Word Mediator Used Differently,", Watch Tower, January 1909.
124.Jump up ^ Scenario of the Photo-Drama of Creation, ©1914 International Bible Students Association, page 3
125.Jump up ^ "Views from the Watch Tower", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 1, 1914 (R5373: page 3)
126.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 101
127.Jump up ^ "Overcome With Wine", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 15, 1892 (R1357: page 27)
128.Jump up ^ "What Smiting of the Waters May Mean", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, February 1, 1916 (R5845: page 38)
129.Jump up ^ "The Burning of the Tares", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, September 1, 1916 (R5951: page 265)
130.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, October 1, 1913, pgs 291-295.
131.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, April 1, 1916, pages 98-99.
132.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, December 15, 1919, pg 375.
133.Jump up ^ "The Table of the Great King,", The Watchtower, April 1, 1919, as cited by James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, pg 181.
134.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 233
135.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, July 1, 1920, page 196.
136.Jump up ^ C. T. Russell, The Battle of Armageddon, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1897, page 568.
137.Jump up ^ "Gospel of the Kingdom", The Watchtower, July 1, 1920, pages 199-200.
138.Jump up ^ "View from the Tower", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, January 15, 1892 (R1354: page 19)
139.Jump up ^ New Heavens and a New Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1953, page 225.
140.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1922, pages 332-337.
141.^ Jump up to: a b Penton 1997, p. 72
142.Jump up ^ "The Keys of the Kingdom and the Great Crowd", Watchtower, October 1, 1971, page 14.
143.Jump up ^ "The Parable of the sheep and goats", The Watchtower, October 15, 1923, pages 307-314.
144.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 113
145.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 15, 1923.
146.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, pp. 141, 142
147.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1, 1925.
148.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 134
149.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 223
150.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 251
151.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, August 1, 1892, page 238.
152.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, 1917, pages 256-258. See comment on Rev. 16:16-20.
153.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, March 1, 1925, page 69.
154.Jump up ^ J. F. Rutherford, The Battle of Armageddon, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1889, page 541.
155.Jump up ^ "Restoration of True Religion", Watchtower, March 1, 1954, page 150.
156.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford, Deliverance, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 1926, pages 268,269.
157.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 306
158.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, June 1, 1927.
159.Jump up ^ Rutherford 1930, p. 226
160.Jump up ^ Russell 1891, p. 23
161.Jump up ^ Creation by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1927, chapter 12, page 314.
162.Jump up ^ The Battle of Armageddon (Part IV, "Studies in the Scriptures") by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1897, page 613.
163.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, July 15, 1906, page 215.
164.Jump up ^ Franz 2002, pp. 78–79
165.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, March 1, 1923, pages 68 and 71, as cited by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, Commentary Press, 2007, page 63.
166.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, January 1, 1927 and February, pages 7, 51-7, as cited by Penton, Apocalypse Delayed.
167.^ Jump up to: a b c The Watchtower: 62. February 15, 1927.
168.Jump up ^ Watchtower, June 15, 1922, page 187, as reproduced by Raymond Franz, Crisis of Conscience, page 225, 226.
169.Jump up ^ Watchtower, 1928, pages 339-45, 355-62, as cited by M. James Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, page 170.
170.Jump up ^ "The Prince of Peace", Zion's Watch Tower & Herald of Christ's Presence, December 1, 1904, page 364.
171.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, December 24, 1919, page 215: "Christmas is regarded by many people as the date of the birth of the babe Jesus in a manger at Bethlehem. Whether the date is correct or not is of small importance, but the event was and is of the greatest importance."
172.Jump up ^ 1975 Yearbook, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, page 146
173.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 152.
174.^ Jump up to: a b Franz 2007, p. 484
175.Jump up ^ "The Higher Powers", Watch Tower, June 1929, pages 163-169, 179-185.
176.^ Jump up to: a b Penton 1997, p. 65
177.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 1, 1929, pages 355-357, as cited by Edmond C. Gruss, The Four Presidents of the Watch Tower Society, page 117 and Tony Wills, A People For His name, page 48.
178.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 62
179.Jump up ^ Preservation by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, page 103-194.
180.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, October 1, 1932, page 294.
181.Jump up ^ Preparation, ©1933 by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower, page 196
182.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 1925, page 57, "We know the work of restitution must come to the Jews first, and through them to the rest of the world. As the Scriptures state that Jerusalem is to be the capital of the world and that the ancient worthies are to be princes in all the earth, we are warranted in expecting that the kingdom work will begin at Jerusalem."
183.Jump up ^ Vindication, Book 2, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, pages 258, 269, 295.
184.Jump up ^ Vindication, Book 3, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1932, page 333.
185.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses – Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 165.
186.Jump up ^ Watchtower, August 15, 1934, as cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name, pg 192-193.
187.Jump up ^ Vindication, J. F. Rutherford, Book III, pages 83. 84.
188.Jump up ^ Watchtower, January 15, 1927, pg 26, 27, "He who is called to be a minister of God must be a new creature, begotten of God's holy spirit; none other can have a share. In this ministry only those who are new creatures in Jesus Christ are entitled to share." As cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name,(2007), pg 194.
189.Jump up ^ Prophecy by J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1929, chapter 4, page 65.
190.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, December 1, 1933, page 362: "In the year 1914 that due time of waiting came to an end. Christ Jesus received the authority of the kingdom and was sent forth by Jehovah to rule amidst his enemies. The year 1914, therefore, marks the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King of glory."
191.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 69
192.Jump up ^ Jehovah, J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1934.
193.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1917, page 6161.
194.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford, Jehovah, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1934, page 191.
195.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1959, page 140.
196.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, March 1, 1935
197.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, October 12, 1921, Page 17, "Vaccination never prevented anything and never will, and is the most barbarous practice ... We are in the last days; and the devil is slowly losing his hold, making a strenuous effort meanwhile to do all the damage he can, and to his credit can such evils be placed ... Use your rights as American citizens to forever abolish the devilish practice of vaccinations."
198.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, January 5, 1929, Page 502, "Thinking people would rather have smallpox than vaccination, because the latter sows seeds of syphilis, cancers, eczema, erysipelas, scrofula, consumption, even leprosy and many other loathsome affections. Hence the practice of vaccinations is a crime, an outrage, and a delusion."
199.Jump up ^ The Golden Age, April 2, 1935, Page 465, "As vaccination is a direct injection of animal matter in the blood stream, vaccination is a direct violation of the law of Jehovah God."
200.Jump up ^ Riches, by J.F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1936, page 27.
201.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, p. 150
202.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1937, page 336, as cited by Tony Wills, A People For His Name, pg 195.
203.Jump up ^ Watchtower, March 1, 1930, page 71, "Since "Christ' means the anointed of God, it is manifestly true that no one can properly be termed a Christian who is not in Christ and who has not received the anointing."
204.Jump up ^ A People for His Name, Tony Wills, pgs 186-187, citing Watchtower October 15, 1938, pg 307, Watchtower, November 1, 1938, page 323, Watchtower, November 15, 1938, page 346.
205.Jump up ^ Watch Tower, November 1, 1939, as cited by Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 193.
206.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 1, 1942, pages 205-206
207.Jump up ^ "Questions from Readers". The Watchtower: 94. February 1, 1955. "Jehovah's witnesses from 1877 up to and including the publishing of "The Truth Shall Make You Free" of 1943 considered 536 B.C. as the year for the return of the Jews to Palestine"
208.Jump up ^ "Determining the Year by Fact and Bible". The Watchtower: 271–2. May 1, 1952. "Concerning the first error, Russell and others considered 1 B.C. to A.D. 1 as being two years whereas in fact this is only one year because, as has been said above, there is no "zero" year in the B.C.-A.D. system for counting years."
209.Jump up ^ Russell 1889, p. 54
210.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, May 15, 1896, R1980 page 112.
211.Jump up ^ Three Worlds, by N. H. Barbour and C. T. Russell, 1877, pages 67, 186, as cited by Edmund Gruss, The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, 1972, pages 62-63.
212.Jump up ^ The Truth Shall Make You Free, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1943, chapter 11, page 151.
213.^ Jump up to: a b Gruss, Edmond C. (1972), The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co, pp. 68–69, ISBN 0-87552-306-4
214.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 89
215.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 1944.
216.Jump up ^ The New Creation, Watch Tower, 1904, pages 289-290, "The administration of discipline is not the function of the elders only, but of the entire [congregation]. ... If the reproved one fails to clear himself, and continues in the error or sin, then two or three brethren without previous prejudice should be asked to hear the matter and advise the disputants. (Elders they may or may not be, but their eldership would add no force or authority in the case except as their judgment might be the riper and their influence the more potent.) If this committee decide unanimously with either party, the other should acquiesce and the matter be wholly at an end--correction, or restitution, so far as possible, being promptly made. If either of the original disputants still persists in the wrong course, the [accuser, a committee member] or, preferably, all of these together, may then (but not sooner) exercise their privilege of bringing the matter before the [congregation]. Thus it is evident that the Elders were in no sense to be judges of the members—hearing and judgment were left to the [congregation]. The two preliminary steps (above mentioned) having been taken, the facts being certified to the elders, it would be their duty to call a general meeting of the [congregation], as a court--to hear the case in all of its particulars, and in the name and reverence of its Head to render a decision. ... if the transgressor refuse to hear (obey) the decision of the entire [congregation], ... the [congregation] is to withdraw from him its fellowship and any and all signs or manifestations of brotherhood. [emphasis retained from original]
217.^ Jump up to: a b Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, 1 February 1955: 94–95
218.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 153
219.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 1. 1945.
220.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, November 15, 1892 p. 351.
221.Jump up ^ The Watch Tower, April 15, 1909 pp. 116-117, "These prohibitions had never come to the Gentiles, because they had never been under the Law Covenant; but so deeply rooted were the Jewish ideas on this subject that it was necessary to the peace of the Church that the Gentiles should observe this matter also ... these items thus superadded to the Law of Love should be observed by all spiritual Israelites as representing the Divine will.”
222.^ Jump up to: a b The Watchtower: 404. July 1, 1951.
223.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, Watchtower, October 1, 1951.
224.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 15, 1952.
225.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, September 15, 1958: "Q: Are we to consider the injection of serums such as diphtheria toxin antitoxin and blood fractions such as gamma globulin into the blood stream, for the purpose of building up resistance to disease by means of antibodies, the same as the drinking of blood or the taking of blood or blood plasma by means of transfusion? A: No, it does not seem necessary that we put the two in the same category, although we have done so in times past.
226.Jump up ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, 1 February 1955: 95
227.Jump up ^ "Interesting Queries", Watch Tower, July 15, 1898, page 216.
228.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1939, page 339: "Jehovah God commands all to worship Christ Jesus because Christ Jesus is the express image of his Father, Jehovah"
229.Jump up ^ Watchtower, October 15, 1945, page 313: "Since Jehovah God now reigns as King by means of his capital organization Zion, then whosoever would worship Him must also worship and bow down to Jehovah's Chief One in that capital organization, namely, Christ Jesus."
230.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, January 1, 1954, page 30.
231.Jump up ^ "Modern Restoration of True Worship (1919-1932)", The Watchtower, May 15, 1955, page 296, "Jesus—then to expand on a global scale—so now in the spring of 1919 there was an outpouring of Jehovah’s holy spirit organizationally upon the Christian remnant."
232.Jump up ^ Watchtower, January 15, 1961, page 63.
233.Jump up ^ Watchtower, August 1, 1961, page 480.
234.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1962.
235.Jump up ^ The Divine Plan of the Ages, by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1886, page 266: "They taught the Church to obey the laws, and to respect those in authority because of their office, even if they were not personally worthy of esteem; to pay their appointed taxes, and, except where they conflicted with God's laws (Acts 4: 19; 5: 29), to offer no resistance to any established law. (Rom. 13: 1 - 7)"
236.Jump up ^ "The Congregation in the Time of the End", Watchtower, March 1, 1961, page 146.
237.Jump up ^ All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1963, page 286.
238.Jump up ^ The Removal of Mankind's Chief Disturber, The Watchtower, 15 July 1967: 446–447
239.Jump up ^ Awake, June 8, 1968, Page 21 “Christian witnesses of Jehovah,... consider all transplants between humans as cannibalism.”
240.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 15, 1967, pages 702-704
241.^ Jump up to: a b Penton, M. J. Penton, Apocalypse Delayed, University of Toronto Press, pp. 165–171, "In 1967 the society suddenly decided that what had been permissible no longer was. Organ transplants suddenly became a form of human cannibalism ... Yet after many faithful Jehovah's Witnesses had suffered for their faith by giving up transplants which in some cases could have made their lives more pleasant and comfortable and by saving them from early death in others, the society again reversed itself."
242.Jump up ^ "Keep Abstaining from Blood", Awake!, July 8, 1972, page 28, "The stand of the Christian witnesses of Jehovah—that such transplants are in effect a form of cannibalism—proved a safeguard. How so? In that it spared them much frustration, grief and anxiety, which were experienced not only by the patients and their relatives but even by many of the assisting medical personnel."
243.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, February 1, 1955, page 95, "However, from our present chronology (which is admitted imperfect) at best the fall of the year 1976 would be the end of 6,000 years of human history for mankind... Obviously, whatever amount of Adam’s 930 years was lived before the beginning of that seventh-day rest of Jehovah, that unknown amount would have to be added to the 1976 date."
244.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come by C. T. Russell, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1889, pages 127-128. "long enough [for Adam] to realize his lack of a companion" and an additional "two years would not be an improbable estimate" to have passed between Adam's creation and Edenic expulsion (beginning the seventh creative day).
245.Jump up ^ "Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1968, page 499-500
246.Jump up ^ Watchtower, June 1, 1973, page 340.
247.Jump up ^ "Questions From Readers", Watchtower, March 15, 1980, page 31.
248.Jump up ^ John Dart, "Defectors Feel Witnsses' Wrath", Los Angeles Times, January 30, 1982, Part II, page 4, "The Sept. 15 Watchtower magazine told members that anyone who has written a letter of resignation should be shunned as if he had been 'disfellowshipped', or expelled ... 'This is a hardening, a tightening, of our policy,' confirmed William Van De Wall, a headquarters spokesman for the Watchtower Society. Denying any great membership losses, Van De Wall said the new directive was to counteract 'disgruntled' ex-members."
249.Jump up ^ “Seek Peace and Pursue It”, The Watchtower, July 15, 1983, page 25
250.Jump up ^ "Questions from readers", The Watctower, January 1, 1987, page 30, "A study of the fulfillment of Bible prophecy and of our location in the stream of time strongly indicate that each of the creative days is 7,000 years long. It is understood that Christ’s reign of a thousand years will bring to a close God’s 7,000-year ‘rest day,’ the last ‘day’ of the creative week. Based on this reasoning, the entire creative week would be 49,000 years long."
251.Jump up ^ "Creation", Insight, volume 1, 1988 Watch Tower, page 545, "Since the seventh day has been continuing for thousands of years, it may reasonably be concluded that each of the six creative periods, or days, was at least thousands of years in length ... Ascribing not just 24 hours but a longer period of time, thousands of years, to each of the creative days better harmonizes with the evidence found in the earth itself."
252.Jump up ^ All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 286.
253.Jump up ^ Man's Salvation Out of World Distress at Hand!, pages 167–168 (1975)
254.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, April 15, 1992, pages 12–17
255.Jump up ^ Watchtower, November 1, 1995, page 20.
256.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, June 1, 1997, page 28: "The recent information in The Watchtower about "this generation" did not change our understanding of what occurred in 1914. But it did give us a clearer grasp of Jesus' use of the term "generation," helping us to see that his usage was no basis for calculating-counting from 1914 – how close to the end we are."
257.Jump up ^ Joel P. Engardio (December 18, 1995), Apocalypse Later, Newsweek
258.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 317
259.Jump up ^ John Dart, "Jehovah's Witnesses Abandon Key Tenet", Los Angeles Times, November 4, 1995.
260.Jump up ^ Watchtower, February 1, 1995.
261.Jump up ^ Penton 1997, p. 316
262.Jump up ^ "Part 2—Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 25
263.Jump up ^ "Chapter 24: Why Jesus Came to Earth", The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, ©1991, "Jesus came to earth particularly to preach about God’s Kingdom, which will vindicate his Father’s name"
264.Jump up ^ Watchtower, February 15, 1995, p.19.
265.Jump up ^ Watchtower, May 1, 2007, pages 30-31: "It appears that we can not set a specific date for when the calling of Christians to the heavenly hope ends."
266.Jump up ^ "Watchtower", February 15, 2008, pages 23-24: "On the other hand, Christ's faithful anointed brothers, the modern-day John class, have recognized this sign as if it were a flash of lightning and have understood its true meaning. As a class, these anointed ones make up the modern-day "generation" of contemporaries that will not pass away "until all these things occur."* This suggests that some who are Christ's anointed brothers will still be alive on earth when the foretold great tribulation begins."
267.Jump up ^ Holy spirit's role in the outworking of Jehovah's purposes, The Watchtower, 15 April 2010: 10
268.Jump up ^ "Your Leader Is One, the Christ". The Watchtower: 23. September 15, 2010.
269.Jump up ^ "Annual Meeting Report".
270.Jump up ^ The Watchtower: 20–25. July 15, 2013.
271.Jump up ^ Franz 2007, pp. 480–488
272.Jump up ^ Holden, p. 32
273.Jump up ^ Wills 2006, p. 253
274.Jump up ^ Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954, page 119.
275.Jump up ^ ibid, page 346
Bibliography[edit]
Barbour, N. H. (1877), Three Worlds, and the Harvest of This World, N. H. Barbour, C. T. Russell
Crompton, Robert (1996), Counting the Days to Armageddon, Cambridge: James Clarke & Co, ISBN 0-227-67939-3
Franz, Raymond (2002), Crisis of Conscience, Commentary Press, Fourth edition, ISBN 0-914675-23-0
Franz, Raymond (2007), In Search of Christian Freedom, Commentary Press, ISBN 0-914675-17-6
Holden, Andrew (2002), Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement, Routledge, ISBN 0-415-26610-6
Penton, M. James (1997), Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.), University of Toronto Press, ISBN 0-8020-7973-3
Rogerson, Alan (1969), Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses, Constable & Co, London, ISBN 978-0-09-455940-0
Russell, C. T. (1886), The Divine Plan of the Ages, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Russell, C. T. (1889), The Time Is At Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Russell, C. T. (1891), Thy Kingdom Come, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Rutherford, J. F. (1930), Light, Book 1, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society (1993), Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society
Wills, Tony (2006), A People For His Name, Lulu Enterprises, ISBN 978-1-4303-0100-4
 



Categories: Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses






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Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses
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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses

Overview

Organizational structure
Governing Body
Watch Tower Bible
 and Tract Society
Corporations

History
Bible Student movement
Leadership dispute
Splinter groups
Doctrinal development
Unfulfilled predictions

Demographics
By country


Beliefs ·
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Salvation ·
 Eschatology

The 144,000
Faithful and discreet slave
Hymns ·
 God's name

Blood ·
 Discipline


Literature

The Watchtower ·
 Awake!

New World Translation
List of publications
Bibliography

Teaching programs

Kingdom Hall ·
 Gilead School


People

Watch Tower presidents

W. H. Conley ·
 C. T. Russell

J. F. Rutherford ·
 N. H. Knorr

F. W. Franz ·
 M. G. Henschel

D. A. Adams

Formative influences

William Miller ·
 Henry Grew

George Storrs ·
 N. H. Barbour

John Nelson Darby


Notable former members

Raymond Franz ·
 Olin Moyle


Opposition

Criticism ·
 Persecution

Supreme Court cases
 by country

v ·
 t ·
 e
   
The eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses is central to their religious beliefs. They believe that Jesus Christ has been ruling in heaven as king since 1914 (a date they believe was prophesied in Scripture), and that after that time a period of cleansing occurred, resulting in God's selection of the Bible Students associated with Charles Taze Russell to be his people in 1919. They also believe the destruction of those who reject their message[1] and thus willfully refuse to obey God[2][3] will shortly take place at Armageddon, ensuring that the beginning of the new earthly society will be composed of willing subjects of that kingdom.
The religion's doctrines surrounding 1914 are the legacy of a series of emphatic claims regarding the years 1799,[4] 1874,[4] 1878,[5] 1914,[6] 1918[7] and 1925[8] made in the Watch Tower Society's publications between 1879 and 1924. Claims about the significance of those years, including the presence of Jesus Christ, the beginning of the "last days", the destruction of worldly governments and the earthly resurrection of Jewish patriarchs, were successively abandoned.[9] In 1922 the society's principal journal, Watch Tower, described its chronology as "no stronger than its weakest link", but also claimed the chronological relationships to be "of divine origin and divinely corroborated...in a class by itself, absolutely and unqualifiedly correct"[10] and "indisputable facts",[4] while repudiation of Russell's teachings was described as "equivalent to a repudiation of the Lord".[11]
The Watch Tower Society has stated that its early leaders promoted "incomplete, even inaccurate concepts".[12] The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses says that, unlike Old Testament prophets, its interpretations of the Bible are not inspired or infallible.[13][14][15] Witness publications say that Bible prophecies can be fully understood only after their fulfillment, citing examples of biblical figures who did not understand the meaning of prophecies they received. Watch Tower publications often cite Proverbs 4:18, "The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established" (NWT) to support their view that there would be an increase in knowledge during "the time of the end", as mentioned in Daniel 12:4. Jehovah's Witnesses state that this increase in knowledge needs adjustments. Watch Tower publications also say that unfulfilled expectations are partly due to eagerness for God's Kingdom and that they do not call their core beliefs into question.[16][17][18]



Contents  [hide]
1 Current beliefs 1.1 Presence of Jesus Christ
1.2 Sign of "last days"
1.3 Judgment of religion
2 History of eschatology 2.1 Early expectations (1871–1881)
2.2 Great Pyramid of Giza (1876–1928)
2.3 "The Time Is At Hand" (1881–1918)
2.4 "Millions Now Living Will Never Die!" (1918–1925)
2.5 "Armageddon Immediately Before Us" (1925–1966)
2.6 "Looking Forward to 1975" (1966–1975)
2.7 The "generation of 1914" (1976–present)
3 Controversy 3.1 Fall of Jerusalem
4 See also
5 References
6 Bibliography

Current beliefs[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach the imminent end of the current world society, or "system of things" by God's judgment, leading to deliverance for the saved. This judgment will begin with false religion, which they identify as the "harlot", Babylon the Great,[19][20] referred to in the Book of Revelation. They apply this designation to all other religions. They do not currently place their expectations on any specific date, but believe that various events will lead up to the end of this "system of things", culminating in Armageddon. Armageddon is understood to include the destruction of all earthly governments by God. After Armageddon, God will extend his heavenly kingdom to include earth.[21][22]
They believe that after Armageddon, based on scriptures such as John 5:28, 29, the dead will gradually be resurrected to a "day of judgment" lasting for a thousand years.[23] This judgment will be based on their actions after resurrection, not on past deeds.[24] At the end of the thousand years a final test will take place when Satan is brought back to mislead perfect mankind.[25] The end result will be a fully tested, glorified human race.[26]
Presence of Jesus Christ[edit]
See also: End time § Jehovah's Witnesses
Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jesus Christ returned invisibly and began to rule in heaven as king in October 1914. They state that the beginning of Christ's heavenly rule would seem worse initially for mankind because it starts with the casting out of Satan from heaven to the earth, which according to Revelation 12, would bring a brief period of "woe" to mankind.[27] This woe will be reversed when Christ comes to destroy Satan's earthly organization, throwing Satan into the abyss and extending[28] God's kingdom rule over the earth, over which Jesus reigns as God's appointed king. They believe the Greek word parousia (usually translated as "coming") is more accurately understood as an extended invisible "presence", perceived only by a series of "signs".[29]
Witnesses base their beliefs about the significance of 1914 on the Watch Tower Society's interpretation of biblical chronology,[30][31] which is hinged on their assertion that the Babylonian captivity and destruction of Jerusalem occurred in 607 BC.[32] From this, they conclude that Daniel chapter 4 prophesied a period of 2,520 years, from 607 BC until 1914.[33][34] They equate this period with the "Gentile Times" or "the appointed times of the nations," a phrase taken from Luke 21:24. They believe that when the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, the line of kings descended from David was interrupted, and that God's throne was "trampled on" from then until Jesus began ruling in October 1914.[35] Secular historians date the event of Jerusalem's destruction to within a year of 587 BC. The Witnesses' alternative chronology produces a 20-year gap between the reigns of Neo-Babylonian Kings Amel-Marduk (rule ended 560 BC) and Nabonidus (rule began 555 BC) in addition to the intervening reigns of Neriglissar and Labashi-Marduk, despite the availability of contiguous cuneiform records.[36]
They teach that after the war of Armageddon, Jesus will rule over earth as king for 1000 years after which he will hand all authority back to Jehovah.[37][38]
Sign of "last days"[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses teach that since October 1914, humanity has been living in a period of intense increased trouble known as "the last days", marked by war, disease, famine, earthquakes, and a progressive degeneration of morality.[39][40] They also believe their preaching is part of the sign, often alluding to the text of Matthew 24:14, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world as a witness to all nations. And then the end shall come." (MKJV)[41][42] They claim that various calamities in the modern world constitute proof of these beliefs, such as the outbreak of World War I in August 1914, the Spanish flu epidemic in May 1918, the onset of World War II in 1939, and more recently, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.[43][44][45]
Judgment of religion[edit]
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that in 1918, Christ judged all world religions claiming to be Christian,[46] and that after a period of eighteen months, among all groups and religions claiming to represent Christ,[47] only the "Bible Students" (from which Jehovah's Witnesses developed) met God's approval.[48] Watch Tower Society publications claim that the world's other religions have misrepresented God, and filled the world with hatred.[49] They identify "Babylon The Great" and the "mother of the harlots" referred to in Revelation 17:3-6 as the "world empire of false religion"[49][50][51]
During the final great tribulation, all other religions will be destroyed by "crazed" member governments of the United Nations, acting under the direction of Jehovah.[52][53] Witness publications identify the United Nations as the "beast" to whom the "ten kings" of Revelation 17:12,13 give their "power and authority."[54]
History of eschatology[edit]



Herald of the Morning published by Nelson H. Barbour and Charles Taze Russell in 1878
Watch Tower Society eschatological teachings are based on the earliest writings of Charles Taze Russell, but have undergone significant changes since then. Many of the changes reflect altered views on the significance of the dates 1874, 1914, 1918, and 1925.
Early expectations (1871–1881)[edit]
The Second Adventists affiliated with Nelson H. Barbour expected a visible and dramatic return of Christ in 1873,[55] and later in 1874.[56] They agreed with other Adventist groups that the "time of the end" (also called the "last days") had started in 1799.[57] Soon after the 1874 disappointment, Barbour's group decided Christ had returned to the earth in 1874, but invisibly. Writing in his journal The Herald of the Morning in 1875, Barbour outlined his eschatological views and connected the years 1874, 1878, 1881, and 1914. The "harvest" was to run from 1874 to the spring of 1878, concluding with "the translation of the living saints into the air." 1881 would mark the restoration of the Jews to Palestine, and the period from 1881 until 1914 would see the installation of God's kingdom on earth. Barbour wrote that in the 40 years from 1874 to 1914 "the 'time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation;' will be fulfilled. And in the mean time, the kingdom of God will be set up, 'break in pieces, and consume all these [Gentile] kingdoms,' 'and the stone become a great mountain, and fill the whole earth,' and usher in glory of the millennial age".[5]
Russell became associated with Barbour in 1876 and accepted Barbour's eschatological understanding.[58][59] In 1877, Barbour and Russell jointly issued the book Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World, which reiterated Barbour's earlier teachings.[60] It proclaimed Christ's invisible return in 1874,[61] the resurrection of the saints in 1875,[62] and predicted the end of the "harvest" and a rapture of the saints to heaven for 1878[63] and the final end of "the day of wrath" in 1914.[64] 1874 was considered the end of 6000 years of human history and the beginning of judgment by Christ.[65]
The selection of 1878 as the year of the rapture of the saints was based on the application of parallel dispensations, which equated the 3½-year period of Christ's ministry with a similar "harvest" period following his parousia. When the rapture failed to occur, Russell admitted they "felt somewhat disappointed", but decided there would be an additional 3½-year period "making the harvest seven years long".[66] Successive issues of The Herald of the Morning identified the autumn of 1881 as the end of the "Harvest" and the likely time for the translation of the Church to heaven.[67][68][69] Russell split from Barbour over doctrinal differences and began publishing Zion's Watch Tower in July 1879.
Great Pyramid of Giza (1876–1928)[edit]



 The monument erected by the Watch Tower Society at C.T. Russell's grave in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania modeled after the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Influenced by the pyramidology theories of John Taylor and Charles Piazzi Smyth, Nelson Barbour and Charles Russell taught that the Great Pyramid of Giza contained prophetic measurements in "pyramid inches" that pointed to both 1874 and 1914. Russell viewed the Great Pyramid as "God's Stone Witness and Prophet".[70][71] Smyth reviewed Russell's manuscript on the Great Pyramid before publication and Russell credited him and Scottish writer Robert Menzies for the view "that the Great Pyramid is Jehovah's 'Witness', and that it was as important a witness to divine truth as to natural science."[72][73] Prophetic dates derived from the measurements inside the Great Pyramid were seen as complementary to biblical interpretations. Russell included the Great Pyramid as part of his film and color slide production The Photo-Drama of Creation in 1914, suggesting that the Great Pyramid was built by the Old Testament king-priest Melchizedek.[74] A special edition of the first volume of Studies in the Scriptures was also published, which was re-titled The Divine Plan of the Ages and the Corroborative Testimony of the Great Pyramid.[75] In accordance with Russell's wishes, a 7-foot (2.1 m) high replica of a pyramid was erected at his gravesite in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with its capstone "patterned after the capstone of the Great Pyramid of Egypt, symbolic of the Christ."[76][77][78]



 Early Watch Tower publications cited "the testimony of the Great Pyramid" for expectations for 1910 and 1914.
Russell's interpretations of the Great Pyramid were supported by the writings of John and Morton Edgar who were prominent members of his movement.[79][80][81] Russell had first stated that 1874 was derived from a measurement of 3416 pyramid inches,[82] but the measurement was revised in the 1910 edition to 3,457 inches (87.8 m) to point to 1915.[83] The Edgars claimed that the revision in measurement and change in date was a result of errors made by Smyth.[84] In the early 1920s, the significance of the pyramidological predictions for 1914 were re-interpreted to mean that "the old evil order began to pass away in 1914."[85][86] In 1924, an issue of Golden Age referred to the Great Pyramid as "the Scientific Bible" and added that measurements on the Grand Gallery inside the Great Pyramid confirmed the dates 1874, 1914 and 1925.[87] Similarly, the 1924 publication The Way to Paradise refers to the Great Pyramid as "the Bible in Stone" and concludes:

It is quite probable that Shem, son of Noah, a faithful servant of God, was in charge of its construction. In it have been discovered some of the deepest secrets of geometrical, geographical, astronomical, and mathematical science. The pyramid also outlines in its own peculiar way the same plan of God that we find in the Bible, and it dated beforehand some of the most notable events that have occurred in the history of mankind. It gives the date of the exodus of the Children of Israel from Egypt, and the date of birth and death of Jesus. It gives the date of the French revolution as 1789, and the great World War as 1914, besides many more. It was built over five hundred years before Moses wrote any part of the Bible. It is so far in advance of the wisdom of that day that no man could have been the architect. Its harmony with the Bible teachings prove that God designed it.[88]
In 1928, the belief that the Great Pyramid contained a prophetic blueprint of biblical chronology was rejected, and the Pyramid was seen as built "under the direction of Satan the Devil."[89][90]
"The Time Is At Hand" (1881–1918)[edit]
Some of Barbour's eschatology was retained by Russell after they parted company. Basing his interpretations on a concept of parallel "dispensations", Russell taught that while Jesus was invisibly present on earth he was also made its king in 1878. He believed God had rejected the "nominal Church" (considered to be "Babylon the Great") in 1878.[91] Russell also taught that in 1878 Christ resurrected all the "dead in Christ" as spirit beings to be with him on earth awaiting a future glorification to heaven. (The remainder of the 144,000 who would die after 1878 would each be resurrected at the time of the their death.) Together with Christ on earth, these invisible resurrected spirit beings were said to be engaged in directing a harvest work (running from 1874–1914) to gather the remainder of those with the heavenly calling.[92] Russell later moderated his view about the significance of 1881, stating that the "door" for the gathering of the Bride of Christ "stands ajar."[93]



 In 1889, Charles Taze Russell published his interpretation of eschatology and chronology based on the idea of parallel "dispensations".
He wrote that the culmination of Armageddon would occur in 1914, preceded by the gathering of all the saints (both resurrected and living) to heaven. Based on measurements from the Great Pyramid of Gizeh, this "passing beyond the vail" or rapture was expected "before the close of A.D. 1910."[94][95] Russell enumerated seven expectations for 1914 in The Time is at Hand:
1.God's kingdom would take full control of earth "on the ruins of present institutions";
2.Christ would be present as earth's new ruler;
3.The last of the "royal priesthood, the body of Christ" would be glorified with Christ;
4.Jerusalem would no longer "be trodden down by the Gentiles";
5."Israel's blindness will begin to be turned away";
6.The great "time of trouble" would reach its culmination of worldwide anarchy;
7.God's Kingdom would "smite and crush the Gentile image—and fully consume the power of these kings".[96]
In 1911 Russell wrote that October 1914 would witness the "full end" of Babylon, or nominal Christianity, "utterly destroyed as a system".[97] At first, the hopes for 1914 were stretched to "near the end of A.D. 1915."[98] A few months before his death in October 1916, Russell wrote: "We believe that the dates have proven to be quite right. We believe that Gentile Times have ended. ... The Lord did not say that the Church would all be glorified by 1914. We merely inferred it, and, evidently, erred."[99] He interpreted the war in Europe to be the first of three phases of Armageddon[100] and the destruction of Christendom as represented in the European monarchies ruling by Divine Right[original research?] to take place in 1918.[7]
Following Russell's lead, the book The Finished Mystery[101] emphasized events for 1918. The destruction of the churches of Christendom and the deaths of "church members by the millions" was expected in 1918.[102][103] The Finished Mystery proposed the spring of 1918 for the glorification of the Church[104] and suggested that it may occur on the day of Passover in that year. First printings of The Finished Mystery predicted the end of the World War "some time about October 1, 1917," but this was changed in subsequent editions.[105][106] It also predicted the destruction of governments in 1920.[107]
"Millions Now Living Will Never Die!" (1918–1925)[edit]
The predictions for 1920 were discarded before that year arrived, in favor of a new chronology. In 1918-1919, Joseph Franklin Rutherford, second president of the Watch Tower Society, inaugurated a worldwide lecture series entitled "Millions Now Living Will Never Die!", later reproduced in booklet form.[108] It provided a re-interpretation of the significance of the year 1914 (now seen as the beginning of the "last days"). It also included new predictions for 1925 including the resurrection of the biblical patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and other Old Testament personages (referred to as "princes").[109][110][111] Their return would mark the beginning of a new order, from which time millions of people alive at that time would be able to live forever.[8] Newspaper advertisements for the "Millions" lecture localized the claim, with a typical declaration in a Marion, Ohio newspaper reading: "It will be conclusively proved... that thousands now living in Marion and vicinity will never die."[112]
The book stated that 1925 would be among the dates "stamped with God's approval" and The Watch Tower described the evidence for the chronology surrounding 1925 as stronger than that for 1914,[113][114] but acknowledged disappointments surrounding earlier predictions and cautioned that "all that some expect to see in 1925 may not transpire that year", and that the expectations could be "a means of testing and sifting."[115] When 1925 also passed uneventfully, meeting attendance among the Bible Students dropped dramatically in some congregations[116] and attendance at the annual Memorial fell from 90,434 to 17,380 between 1925 and 1928.[117][118][119][120]
"Armageddon Immediately Before Us" (1925–1966)[edit]



Beth Sarim (House of the Princes), built in San Diego, California in 1929 in anticipation of resurrected Old Testament "princes", was used by Watch Tower Society president Judge Rutherford as a winter home.
From 1925 until 1933, the Watch Tower Society, under Rutherford's leadership, radically changed much of its chronologies after the failure of these eschatological expectations.[121][122] In March 1925, the Watch Tower declared that Christ had been enthroned as king in heaven in 1914, not 1878.[123] A 1927 Watch Tower transferred the timing of the resurrection of the "saints" from 1878 to 1918,[124] explaining that they would be raised as spirit creatures to heavenly life to be with Christ there.[125] The belief that Christ returned invisibly in 1874 was maintained until the early 1930s.[126] Christ's Second Advent was newly explained as a "turning of attention" to the earth, with Christ remaining in heaven—a departure from the earlier teaching of a literal return to earth.[127] The judgment of "Babylon the Great" was changed from 1878 to 1919 with the publication of the book Light in 1930.[128] By 1933, it was taught that Christ had returned invisibly in 1914 and the "last days" had also begun then.[129][130] The teaching that the "great tribulation" had begun in 1914 and was "cut short" in 1918—to be resumed at Armageddon—was discarded in 1969.[131]
In 1930, Rutherford took up residence in a "Spanish mansion"[132][133] in California which he called Beth Sarim, meaning, House of the Princes. It was held in trust for the ancient biblical "princes" who were expected to be resurrected immediately prior to Armageddon.[134][135] Rutherford spent the winter months at Beth Sarim and died there in January, 1942. The belief that Old Testament "princes" would be resurrected before Armageddon was abandoned in 1950.[136]
In the mid-1930s and early 1940s, Watch Tower Society publications placed emphasis on the imminence of Armageddon, said to be "months" away[137][138] and "immediately before us."[139] Publications also urged converts to remain single and childless because it was "immediately before Armageddon."[140][141] Young Witnesses were counseled in 1943: "It is better and wiser for those of the Lord's 'other sheep' who hope to survive Armageddon and be given the divine mandate to fill the earth with a righteous offspring to defer matters until after the tribulation and destruction of Armageddon is past."[142] This view was discarded in 1950.[143][144][145]
"Looking Forward to 1975" (1966–1975)[edit]



 Convention badge from circuit assembly, circa 1970
During the 1960s and early 1970s, Witnesses were instructed by means of articles in their literature[146][147][148] and at their assemblies that Armageddon and Christ's thousand-year millennial reign could begin by 1975. Strong statements for 1975 appeared, sometimes accompanied with cautionary remarks.[149] The booklet The Approaching Peace of a Thousand Years, which was the text of the keynote address to major assemblies of Jehovah's Witnesses throughout the world in 1969,[150] stated about that promised reign (which would begin at "God's fixed time"):

For Godfearing students of the Holy Bible containing both the ancient Hebrew Scriptures and the Christian Greek Scriptures, there is a more important millennium that compels their attention. That is the seventh millennium ... the seventh millennium of man's existence here on earth ... Does this fact have any bearing on the approach of the peace of a thousand years or of a millennium? Very apparently Yes! ... More recently earnest researchers of the Holy Bible have made a recheck of its chronology. According to their calculations the six millenniums of mankind's life on earth would end in the mid-seventies. Thus the seventh millennium from man's creation by Jehovah God would begin within less than ten years.
Apart from the global change that present-day world conditions indicate is fast getting near, the arrival of the seventh millennium of man's existence on earth suggests a gladsome change for war-stricken humankind ... In order for the Lord Jesus Christ to be "Lord even of the sabbath day," his thousand-year reign would have to be the seventh in a series of thousand-year periods or millenniums. (Matthew 12:8, AV) Thus it would be a sabbatic reign ... Would not, then, the end of six millenniums of mankind's laborious enslavement under Satan the Devil be the fitting time for Jehovah God to usher in a Sabbath millennium for all his human creatures? Yes, indeed! And his King Jesus Christ will be Lord of that Sabbath.[151]
In 1968, a Watchtower article asked: "Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?":

Are we to assume from this study that the battle of Armageddon will be all over by the autumn of 1975, and the long-looked-for thousand-year reign of Christ will begin by then? Possibly, but we wait to see how closely the seventh thousand-year period of man's existence coincides with the sabbathlike thousand-year reign of Christ. If these two periods run parallel with each other as to the calendar year, it will not be by mere chance or accident but will be according to Jehovah's loving and timely purposes.[152]
Young Witnesses were advised in 1969 to avoid careers requiring lengthy periods of schooling[153] and a 1974 issue of the Kingdom Ministry newsletter commended Witnesses who had sold their homes and property to engage in full-time preaching, adding: "Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world's end."[154]
In a lecture[155] in early 1975, then vice president Fred Franz selected sundown on September 5, 1975 as the end of 6000 years of human history, but cautioned that although the prophecies "could happen" by then, it looked improbable.[156][157][158][159] After 1975 passed without any sign of the expected paradise, The Watchtower described as "unwise" the actions of some Witnesses who had made radical changes in their lives, commenting: "It may be that some who have been serving God have planned their lives according to a mistaken view of just what was to happen on a certain date or in a certain year. They may have, for this reason, put off or neglected things that they otherwise would have cared for ... But it is not advisable for us to set our sights on a certain date, neglecting everyday things we would ordinarily care for as Christians, such as things that we and our families really need."[160] In 1979, in a lecture entitled "Choosing the Best Way of Life", the Watch Tower Society acknowledged responsibility for much of the disappointment around 1975.[161] The following year, a Watchtower article admitted that the leaders of Jehovah's Witnesses had erred in "setting dates for the desired liberation from the suffering and troubles that are the lot of persons throughout the earth", and that the Life Everlasting book (1966) had led to "considerable expectation" for 1975, with subsequent statements "that implied that such realization of hopes by that year was more of a probability than a mere possibility." The article added, "It is to be regretted that these latter statements apparently overshadowed the cautionary ones and contributed to a buildup of the expectation already initiated".[162]
Baptism statistics compared with the number of those reporting preaching for 1976-1980 showed that many became inactive during that period.[163]
The "generation of 1914" (1976–present)[edit]



History of Eschatological Doctrine

Last Days begin
Start of Christ's Presence
Christ made King
Resurrection of 144,000
Judgment of Religion
Separating Sheep & Goats
Great Tribulation
1879–1920 1799 1874 1878 during Millenium 1914, 1915, 1918, 1920
1920–1923 1925
1923–1925 during Christ's presence
1925–1927 1914 1878 1878 within generation of 1914
1927–1930 1918
1930–1933 1919
1933–1966 1914
1966–1975 1975?
1975–1995 within generation of 1914
1995–present during Great Tribulation imminent
After the passing of 1975, the Watch Tower Society continued to emphasize the teaching that God would execute his judgment on humankind before the generation of people who had witnessed the events of 1914 had all died.[164][165][166][167] This teaching was based on an interpretation of Matthew 24:34 ("Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur"), with the term "a generation" said to refer "beyond question" to a generation living in a given period.[168]
The term had been used with regard to the nearness of Armageddon from the 1940s, when the view was that "a generation" covered a period of about 30 to 40 years.[169] As the 40-year deadline passed without Armageddon occurring, the definition of "a generation" underwent a series of changes: in 1952 it was said for the first time to mean an entire lifetime, possibly 80 years or more;[169][170] in 1968 it was applied to those who had been at least 15 years old in 1914, who were considered to be "old enough to witness with understanding what took place when the 'last days' began" (italics theirs).[171] In 1980 the starting date for that "generation" was brought into the 20th century when the term was applied to those who had been born in 1904 and therefore aged 10 and able simply "to observe" when World War I had begun. The Watchtower commented: "The fact that their number is dwindling is one more indication that "the conclusion of the system of things" is moving fast toward its end."[169][172]
From 1982 to 1995, the inside cover of Awake! magazine included, in its mission statement, a reference to the "generation of 1914", alluding to "the Creator's promise ... of a peaceful and secure new world before the generation that saw the events of 1914 passes away." In 1985, Witnesses were reminded: "The 1914 generation is well into the evening of its existence, thus allowing only little time for this prophecy yet to be fulfilled.".[173]
Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz claimed members of the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses debated replacing the doctrine with a markedly different interpretation and that in 1980 Albert Schroeder, Karl Klein and Grant Suiter proposed moving the beginning of the "generation" to the year 1957, to coincide with the year Sputnik was launched. He said the proposal was rejected by the rest of the Governing Body.[174]
Despite its earlier description as being "beyond question", the "generation of 1914" teaching was discarded in 1995. Rather than a literal lifespan of 70 to 80 years, the definition of "generation" was changed to "contemporary people of a certain historical period, with their identifying characteristics," without reference to any specific amount of time.[175][176][177] This class of people was described as "the peoples of earth who see the sign of Christ's presence but fail to mend their ways".[178] Mention of 1914 was dropped from Awake! magazine's mission statement as of November 8, 1995.[169] The Watchtower insisted, however, that Armageddon was still imminent, asking: "Does our more precise viewpoint on 'this generation' mean that Armageddon is further away than we had thought? Not at all!"[179]
In 2008 the "generation" teaching was again altered, and the term was used to refer to the "anointed" believers, some of whom would still be alive on earth when the great tribulation begins.[180] This was a return to a belief previously held between 1927 [181] and 1950 when the teaching of the "generation of 1914" not passing away was adopted.[182]
In 2010, the teaching of the "generation" was modified again, to refer to a new generation of "anointed" whose lives "overlap" with "the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914."[183]

Controversy[edit]
Fall of Jerusalem[edit]
See also: Criticism of Jehovah's Witnesses and Siege of Jerusalem (587 BC)
Jehovah's Witnesses assert that Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians in 607 BC and completely uninhabited for exactly seventy years. This date is critical to their selection of October 1914 for the arrival of Christ in kingly power—2520 years after October 607 BC.[184] Non-Witness scholars do not support 607 BC for the event; most scholars date the destruction of Jerusalem to within a year of 587 BC, twenty years later.[185] Jehovah's Witnesses believe that periods of seventy years mentioned in the books of Jeremiah and Daniel refer to the Babylonian exile of Jews. They also believe that the gathering of Jews in Jerusalem, shortly after their return from Babylon, officially ended the exile in Jewish month of Tishrei (Ezra 3:1). According to the Watch Tower Society, October 607 BC is derived by counting back seventy years from Tishrei of 537 BC, based on their belief that Cyrus' decree to release the Jews during his first regnal year "may have been made in late 538 B.C. or before March 4–5, 537 B.C."[186][187] Non-Witness sources assign the return to either 538 BC or 537 BC.[188][189][190][191][192]
In The Gentile Times Reconsidered: Chronology & Christ's Return, Carl O. Jonsson, a former Witness, presents eighteen lines of evidence to support the traditional view of neo-Babylonian chronology. He accuses the Watch Tower Society of deliberately misquoting sources in an effort to bolster their position.[193] The Watch Tower Society claims that biblical chronology is not always compatible with secular sources, and that the Bible is superior. It claims that secular historians make conclusions about 587 BC based on incorrect or inconsistent historical records, but accepts those sources that identify Cyrus' capture of Babylon in 539 BC, claiming it has no evidence of being inconsistent and hence can be used as a pivotal date.[186][194][195]
Rolf Furuli, a Jehovah's Witness and a lecturer in Semitic languages, presents a study of 607 BC in support of the Witnesses' conclusions in Assyrian, Babylonian, Egyptian, and Persian Chronology Compared with the Chronology of the Bible, Volume 1: Persian Chronology and the Length of the Babylonian Exile of the Jews.[196] Lester L. Grabbe, professor of theology at the University of Hull, said of Furuli's study: "Once again we have an amateur who wants to rewrite scholarship. ... F. shows little evidence of having put his theories to the test with specialists in Mesopotamian astronomy and Persian history."[197]
See also[edit]
Watch Tower Society unfulfilled predictions
References[edit]
1.Jump up ^ "The House-to-House Ministry--Why Important Now?". The Watchtower: 5–6. July 15, 2008.
2.Jump up ^ You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 155.
3.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 6.
4.^ Jump up to: a b c The Watchtower, March 1, 1922, page 73, "The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the 'time of the end' began in 1799; that the Lord's second presence began in 1874."
5.^ Jump up to: a b "Our Faith" (PDF). The Herald of the Morning: 52. September 1875.
6.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 15, 1894, p. 1677: "We see no reason for changing the figures—nor could we change them if we would. They are, we believe, God's dates, not ours. But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble."
7.^ Jump up to: a b September 1, 1916 The Watchtower, pages 264-265
8.^ Jump up to: a b Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 1920, page 97, "Based upon the argument heretofore set forth, then, that the old order of things, the old world, is ending and is therefore passing away, and that the new order is coming in, and that 1925 shall mark the resurrection of the faithful worthies of old and the beginning of reconstruction, it is reasonable to conclude that millions of people now on the earth will be still on the earth in 1925. Then, based upon the promises set forth in the divine Word, we must reach the positive and indisputable conclusion that millions now living will never die."
9.Jump up ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 1. ISBN 0-415-26609-2.
10.Jump up ^ "The Strong Cable of Chronology", Watch Tower, July 15, 1922, page 217, "The chronology of present truth is, to begin with, a string of dates... Thus far it is a chain, and no stronger than its weakest link. There exist, however, well established relationships among the dates of present-truth chronology. These internal connections of the dates impart a much greater strength than can be found in other [secular, archeological] chronologies. Some of them are of so remarkable a character as clearly to indicate that this chronology is not of man, but of God. Being of divine origin and divinely corroborated, present-truth chronology stands in a class by itself, absolutely and unqualifiedly correct."
11.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 1922, page 132, "To abandon or repudiate the Lord's chosen instrument means to abandon or repudiate the Lord himself, upon the principle that he who rejects the servant sent by the Master thereby rejects the Master. ... Brother Russell was the Lord's servant. Then to repudiate him and his work is equivalent to a repudiation of the Lord, upon the principle heretofore announced."
12.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom (Watch Tower Society, 1993), chapter 10.
13.Jump up ^ Revelation – It's Grand Climax, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 9.
14.Jump up ^ "False Prophets". Reasoning From the Scriptures. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. p. 137.
15.Jump up ^ "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?". Watchtower: 23. March 1, 1979. "the “faithful and discreet slave” has alerted all of God’s people to the sign of the times indicating the nearness of God’s Kingdom rule. In this regard, however, it must be observed that this “faithful and discreet slave” was never inspired, never perfect. Those writings by certain members of the “slave” class that came to form the Christian part of God’s Word were inspired and infallible [the bible], but that is not true of other writings since."
16.Jump up ^ Why have there been changes over the years in the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses?,"Jehovah's Witnesses", Reasoning From the Scriptures, ©1989, Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, page 205
17.Jump up ^ "Allow No Place for the Devil!", The Watchtower, March 15, 1986, page 19
18.Jump up ^ "Keep in Step With Jehovah’s Organization", Watchtower, January 15, 2001, page 18.
19.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand 1988, pages 235-236 pars. 2-3 "Judging the Infamous Harlot", © Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania
20.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pp. 205-206.
21.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1959, pp. 530-531 par. 15.
22.Jump up ^ Armageddon—A Happy Beginning Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
23.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, p 6.
24.Jump up ^ Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988,p. 788.
25.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 2005, p. 20.
26.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, August 15, 2006, p. 31
27.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 1, 1996, p6.
28.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Daniel's Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1999, p. 62.
29.Jump up ^ "Jesus' Coming or Jesus' Presence—Which?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1996, p. 12.
30.Jump up ^ All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, pp. 278-284
31.Jump up ^ "Why do Jehovah's Witnesses say that God's Kingdom was established in 1914?", Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 95-96.
32.Jump up ^ What Does the Bible Really Teach?, page 216, Watchtower Bible & Tract Society
33.Jump up ^ Gruss, Edmond C. (1972). The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. pp. 20–58. ISBN 0-87552-306-4.
34.Jump up ^ "Let Your Kingdom Come", Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1981, pp. 186-189 Appendix to Chapter 14.
35.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, pp. 217-218.
36.Jump up ^ "Let Your Kingdom Come", Appendix, page 187: "Business tablets: Thousands of contemporary Neo-Babylonian cuneiform tablets have been found that record simple business transactions, stating the year of the Babylonian king when the transaction occurred. Tablets of this sort have been found for all the years of reign for the known Neo-Babylonian kings in the accepted chronology of the period.", Watchtower Bible & Tract Society
37.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, 15 January 2004, p. 16
38.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Daniel's Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 2006, pp. 94,95.
39.Jump up ^ "Do You Recognize the Sign of Jesus' Presence?". The Watchtower (Watch Tower Society): 4. October 1, 2005.
40.Jump up ^ "The Visible Part of God’s Organization". The Watchtower: 24. May 1, 1981. "the Gentile Times, “the appointed times of the nations,” had ended in October of 1914. (Luke 21:24) Since then the old world has been in its “time of the end” or in its “last days.”"
41.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, p11.
42.Jump up ^ Awake!, October 22, 1993, p. 11.
43.Jump up ^ The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1981, pg 86.
44.Jump up ^ True Peace and Security- How Can You Find It?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1986, pp 81-84.
45.Jump up ^ "A Century of Violence", Awake!, May 8, 2002, p. 8.
46.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 56.
47.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pp. 259-260.
48.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, January 15, 2008, p. 24.
49.^ Jump up to: a b "Babylon the Great Indicted", The Watchtower, April 15, 1989, page 23.
50.Jump up ^ What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 220.
51.Jump up ^ "Babylon the Great—Fallen and Judged", The Watchtower, May 1, 1989, pages 3-7.
52.Jump up ^ Revelation—Its Grand Climax at Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 256 par. 17.
53.Jump up ^ "No Peace for the False Messengers!" The Watchtower, May 1, 1997, pp. 17-18 par. 17: "Shortly, 'crazed' members of the UN will be maneuvered by Jehovah to turn on false religion, as described at Revelation 17:16 ... This will mark the start of the great tribulation"
54.Jump up ^ "Deliverance at the Revelation of Jesus Christ", The Watchtower, May 1, 1993, p. 24.
55.Jump up ^ Evidences for the Coming of the Lord in 1873: or the Midnight Cry, N.H. Barbour (1871). Available online at: http://www.heraldmag.org/olb/contents/history/barbour%20midnight%20cry.htm
56.Jump up ^ The Midnight Cry and Herald of the Morning, March 1874. See Section under "Our Faith."
57.Jump up ^ Present Truth, Or Meat in Due Season by Jonas Wendell, pp. 34-35
58.Jump up ^ C.T. Russell (April 1880). "From and To The Wedding". Zion's Watch Tower: 2. "The writer, among many others now interested, was sound asleep, in profound ignorance of the cry, etc., until 1876, when being awakened he trimmed his lamp (for it is still very early in the morning.) It showed him clearly that the Bridegroom had come and that he is living "in the days of the Son of Man"."
59.Jump up ^ The Watchtower reprints, "Harvest Gatherings and Siftings", July 15, 1906, page 3822.
60.Jump up ^ Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World by N.H. Barbour and C.T. Russell (1877). Text available online at: http://www.heraldmag.org/olb/contents/history/3worlds.pdf Scan of book in PDF format
61.Jump up ^ Three Worlds, p. 175
62.Jump up ^ Three Worlds, pp. 104-108
63.Jump up ^ See pages 68, 89-93, 124, 125-126, 143 of Three Worlds.
64.Jump up ^ Three Worlds, p. 189: "the 'times of the Gentiles,' reach from B.C. 606 to A.D. 1914, or forty years beyond 1874. And the time of trouble, conquest of the nations, and events connected with the day of wrath, have only ample time, during the balance of this forty years, for their fulfillment."
65.Jump up ^ "The Second Hand in the Timepiece of God" (PDF). The Golden Age: 412–413. March 27, 1935.
66.Jump up ^ C.T. Russell (July 1878). "The Prospect" (PDF). The Herald of the Morning: 11–12.
67.Jump up ^ "Bible Theology" (PDF). The Herald of the Morning: 22. August 1878. "...showing that we are now in the last half of the 'harvest' of the gospel age; and that it will terminate in A.D. 1881."
68.Jump up ^ "Harmony of the Scriptures" (PDF). The Herald of the Morning: 52. October 1878. "Hence, the 'real rising again of Israel' can not begin until the autumn of 1881, at which date, the presumption is, that the gospel church will be taken away to meet the Lord."
69.Jump up ^ "Book of Revelation: Coming Time of Trouble" (PDF). The Herald of the Morning: 6. January 1879. "And from that time, or the autumn of 1881, the 91st Ps[alm]: 'He shall give his angels charge over thee,' etc., will begin to have its fulfillment. From that time onward, we believe no one of the company of the overcomers need die, even though they reach that point tottering, as it were on the verge of the grave."
70.Jump up ^ "Herald of the Morning". January 1876.
71.Jump up ^ C.T.Russell (1891). Thy Kingdom Come. pp. 309–376. ISBN 0-9728243-2-4.
72.Jump up ^ Russell (1891). Thy Kingdom Come. Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. ISBN 0-9728243-2-4. (p. 320)
73.Jump up ^ Joseph Seiss' book A Miracle in Stone was also influential for Russell.
74.Jump up ^ Photo Drama of Creation, p. 25. Video of Russell discussing the Great Pyramid
75.Jump up ^ Charles Taze Russell (1913). The Divine Plan of the Ages and the Corroborative Testimony of the Great Pyramid (PDF). Watchtower. (Google Books Version)
76.Jump up ^ Program of the 1921 Annual Meeting of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society: "The Pyramid monument erected at the grave of Brother Russell was sketched by Brother J.A. Bohnet and approved by Brother Russell several years ago. It was his desire that such a monument be erected on this lot and he set about to procure the materials before his death. After Brother Russell's death, Brother Rutherford, learning that Brother Russell had ordered the erection of this monument asked Brother Bohnet to proceed at once to get the material and let the contract for its construction and erection."
77.Jump up ^ 1919 Bible Student Convention Souvenir Booklet, pp. 6-7.
78.Jump up ^ [1]
79.Jump up ^ John Romer (2007). The Great Pyramid: Ancient Egypt Revisited. Cambridge University Press. p. 55. ISBN 0-521-87166-2.
80.Jump up ^ The Edgars' 2 volume work Great Pyramid Passages and Chambers was advertised and sold in the The Watchtower (August 1, 1910 Watch Tower Reprints, p. 4658; October 15, 1913 The Watchtower, page 306, Reprints p. 5336). Research by the Edgars on the Great Pyramid was published in the November 15, 1904 Watch Tower, Reprints, p. 3459, the June 15, 1905 Watch Tower, Reprints, p. 3574 and the June 1, 1910 The Watchtower, Reprints, p. 4621. John Edgar was named to be on the editorial committee for the Watch Tower magazine in the December 1, 1916 The Watchtower, (Reprints p. 5999), but had died before Russell. Research by Morton Edgar was published in the August 15, 1923 The Watchtower, pp. 253-254, the December 31, 1924 Golden Age, pp. 209-211 and on pp. 163, 355, 357 of the 1923 The Watchtower. Morton Edgar explained the spiritual meaning of the Great Pyramid in "God's Plan of Salvation in the Great Pyramid," a lecture which was published in the 1911 Bible Students Convention Report
81.Jump up ^ Morton Edgar, on page 151 of the 1924 edition of the second volume of Great Pyramid Passages, refers to Judge Rutherford's booklet Millions Now Living Will Never Die as a "wonderful message of life."
82.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come (1904 edition—Millennial Dawn, vol 3) p.342
83.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come (copyright 1891) (Studies In The Scriptures, vol. 3, 1910 edition) p.342
84.Jump up ^ Great Pyramid Passages and Chambers (1913), volume 2: "Professor C. Piazzi Smyth very properly says, `no two human measures ever agree exactly.'" (Ibid p.1) According to the Edgars, Professor Smyth (from whom Russell gained his information) had not personally measured this passage since it was blocked. It had been roughly measured in 1837 by Col Howard Vyse, but the Edgars personally measured "the length of this passage seven times" and ended up with seven different measurements, though within a few inches. (Ibid p.8 ) In answering a question about different measurements of the pyramid, The Watchtower stated "that Prof. Smyth's interest centered in the upper chambers of the Pyramid ... Much less care and precision [were] manifested in his dealings with all other parts". (The Watchtower November 1904 p. 326 "The Great Pyramid Measurements")
85.Jump up ^ Edgar (1924). Great Pyramid Passages Volume II (PDF). p. 72. "For many years students of the Word believed that the foretold destruction of "Babylon the Great" would begin in 1914- 1915 AD., the date marked by the upper terminal of the Grand Gallery. Nor have their expectations been disappointed; for although the "Great Time of Trouble" covers a longer period than was thought possible, this trouble which is to end Christendom is manifestly now in progress; and it began precisely at the date expected. Beginning with 1914 A.D. in the great World War in which most of the mightiest 'Christian' nations were actively engaged, Christendom, called in the Scriptures Babylon the Great, received a blow from which it can never recover. The old evil order began to pass away in 1914 A.D."
86.Jump up ^ Edgar (1924). The Great Pyramid: Its Symbolism, Science and Prophecy (PDF). p. 119.
87.Jump up ^ "Golden Age" (PDF). December 31, 1924. pp. 207, 222.
88.Jump up ^ The Way to Paradise, pp. 156-158
89.Jump up ^ The last favorable reference to the Great Pyramid in Watch Tower Society publications appears in The Watchtower, the April 15, 1928, p. 125
90.Jump up ^ Pyramidology was first rejected in the November 15, 1928 Watchtower, p 344: "It is more reasonable to conclude that the great pyramid of Gizeh, as well as the other pyramids thereabout, also the sphinx, were built by the rulers of Egypt and under the direction of Satan the Devil...The Devil, by the use of the descendants of Ham, set up Egypt, or the land of Ham, as the first great world power. Then Satan put his knowledge in dead stone, which may be called Satan's Bible, and not God's stone witness. In erecting the pyramid, of course, Satan would put in it some truth, because that is his method of practising fraud and deceit."
91.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, April 1883. Reprints pp. 474-5: "This spuing out, or casting off, of the nominal church as an organization in 1878, we then understood, and still proclaim, to be the date of the commencement of Babylon's fall..."
92.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come (1890), Volume 3 of Millennial Dawn, later retitled Studies in the Scriptures, p. 305-308.
93.Jump up ^ "Questions of Interest: The Gradual End of Gospel Favor" (PDF). Watch Tower: 190. June 15, 1911. "Our understanding is that the open or general 'call' of this age to kingdom honors ceased in October, 1881....we make a distinction between the end of the 'call' and the closing of the 'door'; and believe that the door into the kingdom class is not yet closed; that it stands ajar for a time..."
94.Jump up ^ Thy Kingdom Come, p. 364: "this date, 1910, indicated by the pyramid ... we may accept as correct the testimony of the great pyramid, that the last members of the body or bride' of Christ will have been tested and accepted and will have passed beyond the vail before the close of A.D. 1910."
95.Jump up ^ The New Creation, p.579: "According to our expectations the stress of the great time of trouble will be on us soon, somewhere between 1910 and 1912—culminating with the end of the 'Times of the Gentiles,' October, 1914." (Later editions may read differently)
96.Jump up ^ The Time is at Hand, pages 76-78. Post 1914 editions read differently--1917 edition.
97.Jump up ^ Zion's Watch Tower, June 15, 1911, page 190.
98.Jump up ^ The Time is at Hand, 1915 ed., p. 99: "In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth, that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished near the end of A.D. 1915. Then the prayer of the church, ever since her Lord took his departure - 'Thy kingdom come' - will be answered; and under that wise and just administration, the whole earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord" (Later editions have 1914 instead of 1915)
99.Jump up ^ "The Watchtower". April 15, 1916. pp. 126–127.
100.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1916: "Our eyes of understanding should discern clearly the Battle of the Great Day of God Almighty now in progress."
101.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery from Google Book Search. Published in 1917 by the Watch Tower Society. It was considered to be volume 7 of Studies in the Scriptures. PDF version of The Finished Mystery. Later editions read differently.
102.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1917, Page 485: "Also, in the year 1918, when God destroys the churches wholesale and the church members by millions, it shall be that any that escape shall come to the works of Pastor Russell to learn the meaning of the downfall of 'Christianity.'"
103.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1917,Pages 398-9: "The people who are the strength of Christendom shall be cut off in the brief but terribly eventful period beginning in 1918 A.D. A third part are 'burned with fire in the midst of the city.' Fire symbolizes destruction ... After 1918 the people supporting churchianity will cease to be its supporters, be destroyed as adherents, by the spiritual pestilence of errors abroad, and by the famine of the Word of God among them."
104.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1917, Page 64. Page 177
105.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery (1917 edition) (PDF). 1917. p. 367.
106.Jump up ^ W.F. Hudgings (member of the Board of Directors for the Watch Tower Society) (February 3, 1919). "Why I Accept the Seventh Volume". 1919 Souvenir IBSA Convention: 47. "There is no more reason why we should reject the Seventh Volume because of some statements there about the ending of the war in October, 1917, which did not come true, than there is that we should throw Volume Two away because we weren't all glorified in October, 1914"
107.Jump up ^ The Finished Mystery, 1917 edition, p.258.258. (This date is changed in later editions.)
108.Jump up ^ "The Watchtower". December 15, 1921. p. 379.
109.Jump up ^ M. James Penton (1985). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 57–58. ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2.
110.Jump up ^ "New Date For Millennium: Russellites Now See It Coming on Earth in 1925" (PDF). New York Times. June 2, 1919.
111.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford (1920). Millions Now Living Will Never Die! (PDF). International Bible Students Association. pp. 89–90. ISBN 1-4116-2898-5. (Page 89 from Google Book Version)
112.Jump up ^ The Marion Star, Marion, Ohio, April 9, 1921. The Bridgeport Telegram, Bridgeport, Connecticut, December 4, 1920. Scans available at News Clippings from the "Millions Now Living Will Never Die" Campaign (1919-1925)
113.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1922, p. 262, "The date 1925 is even more distinctly indicated by the Scriptures than 1914."
114.Jump up ^ The Watchtower May 15, 1922, p. 147, 150, "We have no doubt whatever in regard to the chronology relating to the dates of 1874, 1914, 1918, and 1925 ... There can be no more question about 1925 than there was about 1914."
115.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 1922, p. 150, "Noting the date marked so prominently, it is very easy for the finite mind to conclude that all the work to be done must center about it, and thus many are inclined to anticipate more than has been really foretold. Thus it was in 1844, in 1874, in 1878 as well as in 1914 and 1918. Looking back we can now easily see that those dates were clearly indicated in Scripture and doubtless intended by the Lord to encourage his people, as they did, as well as to be a means of testing and sifting when all that some expected did not come to pass. That all that some expect to see in 1925 may not transpire that year will not alter the date one whit more than in the other cases."
116.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses: Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. p. 633.
117.Jump up ^ Your Will Be Done on Earth. Watchtower. 1958. p. 337. Annual Memorial attendances were 17,961 (1919), 32,661 (1922), 42,000 (1923) 62,696 (1924), 90,434 (1925), 89,278 (1926) and 17,380 (1928). Statistics were also published each year in the Watchtower until 1926
118.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". August 15, 1996. p. 31. In 1935, Memorial attendance had increased again to 63,146.
119.Jump up ^ Timothy White (1967). A People For His Name. Vantage. pp. 238–239.
120.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose. Watchtower. 1959. p. 313.
121.Jump up ^ Penton, M. James (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 170. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
122.Jump up ^ Thomas Daniels. "Historical Idealism and Jehovah's Witnesses" (PDF). pp. 3–37.
123.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, pp. 138-9.
124.Jump up ^ Light, Book One, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1930, p. 78.: "In June, 1927, the Watch Tower published the proof from the Scriptures that those who thus died faithful were asleep in death until the coming of the Lord to his temple in 1918."
125.Jump up ^ Light, Book One, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, p. 333.
126.Jump up ^ The Harp of God (both the 1921 and 1927 editions) affirmed on page 231 that "the Lord's second presence dates from 1874." The March 1, 1922 Watch Tower and pages 65-66 of the book Prophecy (published in 1928) reiterated this position. However, by 1930 some vagueness can be seen. For example, the October 15, 1930 Watch Tower, page 308, says the "second advent of the Lord Jesus Christ dates from about A.D. 1875." The November 1, 1932 Watch Tower, page 325 is even less precise, stating that from "approximately 1875 forward" Christ was preparing the way.
127.Jump up ^ Tony Wills (2007). A People For His Name: A History of Jehovah's Witnesses and an Evaluation. Lulu.com. p. 147. ISBN 978-1-4303-0100-4.
128.Jump up ^ Light, Book One, p. 318-319.
129.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, December 1, 1933, p. 362.
130.Jump up ^ Golden Age, March 14, 1934, p. 380.
131.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, September 1, 1969, p. 521.
132.Jump up ^ Time magazine, March 31, 1930, p. 60. Scan of article.
133.Jump up ^ July 25, 1931 Messenger, pages 6,8.
134.Jump up ^ Golden Age, March 19, 1930 , pages 496-497
135.Jump up ^ http://www.bibletopics.com/biblestudy/89a.htm San Diego Sun, March 1930 Interview with Rutherford about Beth Sarim
136.Jump up ^ Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1959, p. 252.
137.Jump up ^ Universal War Near, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1935: "Universal war is absolutely certain to come and that soon, and no power can stop it ... during the few remaining months until the breaking of that universal cataclysm."
138.Jump up ^ Watchtower 15 September 1941 p. 288.
139.Jump up ^ Watchtower, April 1942, p.139.
140.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, November 1, 1938, p. 323: "If in obedience to the divine command the Jonadabs or great multitude will marry and rear children after Armageddon, would it not be Scripturally proper for them to begin doing so immediately before Armageddon? and should the Jonadabs now be encouraged to marry and rear children? No, is the answer, supported by the Scriptures."
141.Jump up ^ J.F. Rutherford (1938). Face The Facts. Watchtower. p. 46. "There are now on earth Jonadabs devoted to the Lord and who doubtless will prove faithful. Would it be Scripturally proper for them to now marry and to begin to rear children? No, is the answer, which is supported by the Scriptures."
142.Jump up ^ 1943 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, Daily Texts and Comments for November 7. The fictional sweethearts of Children, John and Eunice, defer marriage "until lasting peace comes to the earth" while hoping "that within a few years our marriage may be consummated." J.F. Rutherford (1941). Children. Watchtower. pp. 366–367. ISBN 0-7500-1058-4.
143.Jump up ^ "The Watchtower". October 15, 1950. p. 382. "Since the carrying out of the command to 'be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth' waits until after Armageddon, does that mean that those who now marry and rear children are violating God's laws? No, for the Scriptures show that 'marriage is honourable in all'—Hebrews 13:4"
144.Jump up ^ Barbara Grizzuti Harrison (1978). Visions of Glory. Simon & Schuster. pp. 74–77. ISBN 0-671-22530-8.
145.Jump up ^ M. James Penton (1985). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 265–266. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
146.Jump up ^ Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God. Watch Tower Society. 1966. pp. 29–35.
147.Jump up ^ "Is it Later Than You Think?". Awake!: 13–16. 8 October 1968.
148.Jump up ^ "How Much Longer Will It Be?". Awake!: 17–20. 8 October 1966.
149.Jump up ^ Public Address by District Overseer Charles Sunutko in Spring 1967 in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Mp3 of Lecture by Sinutko
150.Jump up ^ The Approaching Peace of a Thousand Years: "Undisturbed peace with health, happiness and freedom from fear is on the divine program for humankind on earth. Reliable evidences indicate that it will begin within this generation! We do not want to keep this gladsome information to ourselves, and so in this booklet we pass it on to you."
151.Jump up ^ Penton. Apocalypse Delayed. p. 95. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
152.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". August 15, 1968. pp. 494–501.
153.Jump up ^ Awake!, May 22, 1969, p.15: "You also need to face the fact that you will never grow old in this present system of things ... All the evidence in fulfillment of Bible prophecy indicates that this corrupt system is due to end in a few years ... Therefore, as a young person, you will never fulfill any career that this system offers. If you are in high school and thinking about a college education, it means at least four, perhaps even six or eight more years to graduate into a specialized career. But where will this system of things be by that time? It will be well on the way towards its finish, if not actually gone! This is why parents who base their lives on God's prophetic Word find it much more practical to direct their young ones into trades that do not require such long periods of additional schooling."
154.Jump up ^ http://www.jwfiles.com/scans/KM5-1974p3.htm "How Are You Using Your Life?", Our Kingdom Ministry, May 1974 p.3.
155.Jump up ^ Sound clip of lecture "What is the Significance of 1975?" by Governing Body Member Fred Franz. http://www.freeminds.org/media/fredfranz75an.html; MP3 of complete lecture
156.Jump up ^ Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz p. 249. Scan available at http://web.archive.org/web/20031209184316/http://users.volja.net/izobcenec4/coc/9.pdf
157.Jump up ^ Time magazine archive "Witnessing the End", July 18, 1969 Time Scan of article: "The Witnesses have what they believe is Scriptural proof that the end is coming. For one thing, their interpretation of Biblical chronology reveals that Adam and Eve were created in the autumn of 4026 B.C., or 5994 years ago. Linking 6000 years to the six days of God's creation, they believe it fitting that there be a sabbath-like rest thereafter, beginning in 1975—though Witnesses cautiously avoid a flat prediction linked to that year."
158.Jump up ^ The Arizona Republic August 24, 1969
159.Jump up ^ July 11, 1977 Time magazine
160.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, July 15, 1976, p.441
161.Jump up ^ 1980 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, p. 30
162.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, March 15, 1980, p.17.
163.Jump up ^ "Defectors Feel 'Witness' Wrath: Critics say Baptism Rise Gives False Picture of Growth" by John Dart, Los Angeles Times, January 30, 1982, p. B4
164.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 1985, p.4.
165.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 15, 1984
166.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". December 1, 1968. p. 715. "A generation, according to Psalm 90:10, is from seventy to eighty years. The generation that witnessed the end of the Gentile Times in 1914 does not have many more years left."
167.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". December 15, 1967. p. 751. "The expression 'this generation' was used by Jesus to mark a very limited period of time, the life-span of members of a generation of people living during the time that certain epoch-making events occurred. According to Psalm 90:10, that life-span could be of seventy years or even of eighty years."
168.Jump up ^ "Vision of the 'Time of the End'". Watchtower: 404. July 1, 1951. "'Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.' (Matt. 24:34, NW) The actual meaning of these words is, beyond question, that which takes a 'generation' in the ordinary sense, as at Mark 8:12 and Acts 13:36, or for those who are living at the given period ... This therefore means that from 1914 a generation shall not pass till all is fulfilled, and amidst a great time of trouble."
169.^ Jump up to: a b c d Franz, Raymond (2007). Crisis of Conscience. Commentary Press. pp. 254–272. ISBN 0-914675-23-0.
170.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". September 1, 1952. p. 542.
171.Jump up ^ "Awake!". October 8, 1968. pp. 13, 14.
172.Jump up ^ "The Watchtower". October 15, 1980. p. 31.
173.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, May 1, 1985, p.7.
174.Jump up ^ Crisis of Conscience, Raymond Franz p. 262. Scan available at http://web.archive.org/web/20031210004130/users.volja.net/izobcenec4/coc/10.pdf accessed January 27, 2006.
175.Jump up ^ "Saved From a 'Wicked Generation'", The Watchtower (November 1) 1995, pp. 10-15.
176.Jump up ^ Crompton, Robert (1996). Counting the Days to Armageddon. Cambridge: James Clarke & Co. p. 101. ISBN 0-227-67939-3.
177.Jump up ^ Joel P. Engardio (December 18, 1995). "Apocalypse Later". Newsweek.
178.Jump up ^ "A Time To Keep Awake", The Watchtower, November 1, 1995, p. 19 par. 12, and p. 20 par. 15.
179.Jump up ^ "Watchtower". November 1, 1995. p. 20.
180.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 2008, pages 23-24: "As a class, these anointed ones make up the modern-day "generation" of contemporaries that will not pass away "until all these things occur."* This suggests that some who are Christ's anointed brothers will still be alive on earth when the foretold great tribulation begins."
181.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, February 15, 1927, p. 62, "Interesting Questions".
182.Jump up ^ The Watchtower, November 1, 1950, p. 419.
183.Jump up ^ "Holy spirit's role in the outworking of Jehovah's purposes". The Watchtower: 10. 15 April 2010.
184.Jump up ^ Pay Attention to Daniel's Prophecy! chap. 6 par. 25-29
185.Jump up ^ Edmond C. Gruss, Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co, 1972, ISBN 0-87552-306-4 Page 42.
186.^ Jump up to: a b "When Was Ancient Jerusalem Destroyed?—Part One" The Watchtower, October 1, 2011, page 26
187.Jump up ^ "Evidences of the Year’s Correctness". The Watchtower: 271–2. May 1, 1952. "It was in this first regnal year of Cyrus that he issued his decree to permit the Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. (Ezra 1:1) The decree may have been made in late 538 B.C. or before March 4–5, 537 B.C. In either case this would have given sufficient time for the large party of 49,897 Jews to organize their expedition and to make their long four-month journey from Babylon to Jerusalem to get there by September 29–30, 537 B.C., the first of the seventh Jewish month, to build their altar to Jehovah as recorded at Ezra 3:1-3. Inasmuch as September 29–30, 537 B.C., officially ends the seventy years of desolation as recorded at 2 Chronicles 36:20, 21, so the beginning of the desolation of the land must have officially begun to be counted after September 21–22, 607 B.C., the first of the seventh Jewish month in 607 B.C., which is the beginning point for the counting of the 2,520 years."
188.Jump up ^ "Babylonian Exile." Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010.
189.Jump up ^ Timeline of Judaism after the Babylonian Exile
190.Jump up ^ Keller, Werner (1983). The Bible As History. Bantam; 2 Revised edition. p. 352. ISBN 0-553-27943-2.
191.Jump up ^ Dictionary of the Bible: Biographical, Geographical, Historical and Doctrinal by Charles Randall Barnes, Page 247.
192.Jump up ^ Dyer, Charles (2003). Nelson’s Old Testament survey: Discovering essence, Background & Meaning about Every Old Testament book.
193.Jump up ^ The Gentile Times Reconsidered: Chronology & Christ's Return by Carl O. Jonsson. ISBN 0-914675-06-0 Publisher: Commentary Press (July, 1998, Fourth edition 2004)
194.Jump up ^ "When Was Ancient Jerusalem Destroyed?—Part Two" The Watchtower, November 1, 2011, page 22
195.Jump up ^ Insight from scriptures. Vol.2 page 458, "secular chronologers calculate the 16th day of Tashritu (Tishri) as falling on October 11, Julian calendar, and October 5, Gregorian calendar, in the year 539 B.C.E. Since this date is an accepted one, there being no evidence to the contrary, it is usable as a pivotal date in coordinating secular history with Bible history."
196.Jump up ^ Assyrian, Babylonian, Egyptian, and Persian Chronology Compared with the Chronology of the Bible, Volume 1: Persian Chronology and the Length of the Babylonian Exile of the Jews (2003) ISBN 82-994633-3-5
197.Jump up ^ Journal for the Study of the Old Testament 28:5 [2004], p. 42-43
Bibliography[edit]
Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses by M. James Penton, professor emeritus in the Department of History at the University of Lethbridge and former Jehovah's Witness ISBN 978-0-8020-7973-2
 



Categories: Apocalypticism
Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses
Christian eschatology







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