[Watchtower study for the week of June 16, 2014 – w14 4/15 p. 17]
Study theme text: “No one can slave for two masters…
You cannot slave for God and for Riches”—Mat. 6:24
Some months ago, when I first read this week’s Watchtower study article, it disturbed me. However, I couldn’t put my finger on the reason why. There was of course the fact that some of our brothers and sisters are going to feel publicly humiliated as they sit in the audience while these topics are being discussed. It seems unkind and therefore unchristian to put them on the spot in this way.
There was also, for me at least, the thought that this is a tremendous waste of our dedicated time. Surely we don’t have to spend eight million man-hours studying a topic that only applies to a tiny minority of our brothers? Wouldn’t yet another secondary article on the subject have done the job? Or perhaps a brochure that the elders could bring out whenever these specific issues arise? Surely a one-on-one counseling session would be the most advantageous method of helping our brothers to reason on these principles? That would allow us to then use these eight million man-hours to get into deep Bible study, something sadly lacking from our theocratic curriculum; or we could spend the time getting to know our Lord Jesus Christ better so as to imitate him all the more closely. That is instruction we could all benefit from and something which is also far too scarce in our weekly instruction program.
While all the above may or may not be true depending on your point of view, for me, none of it took away the nagging feeling that something else—something fundamental—was wrong with the article. Some of you might be thinking I’m being unnecessarily critical. After all, the article contains sound Bible principles which seem to apply quite nicely to the cited case histories. Quite true. But let me ask you this? After reading the article, do you believe it is our position as Jehovah’s Witnesses that going to another country to make more money to send home to your family is acceptable, but not preferable? Or do you get the impression that for JWs this is always a bad thing? Did you get the impression that those who do this are just trying to provide for their families in line with 1 Timothy 5:8, or are they doing this to seek riches?[i] Is it your understanding from the article that such ones are not trusting in Jehovah, and that if they just stayed home and made do, all would be well?
This is typical of our one-size-fits-all approach to applying Bible principles, and therein lies the fundamental problem we should all have with this type of article.
We are turning principles into rules.
The reason Christ gave us principles and not laws to guide us through life is two-fold. One: principles always apply despite changing times and circumstances; and two: principles put the power in the hands of the individual and free us from the control of human authority. By obeying principles, we submit directly to our head, Jesus Christ. However, manmade rules take the power away from Christ and put it in the hands of the rule makers. That is precisely what the Pharisees did. By making rules and imposing them on men, they exalted themselves above God.
If you feel I’m being harsh and judgmental, that the article does not make rules, but only helps us to see how the principles apply, then ask yourself again: What impression does the article leave me with?
If you feel the article is saying that it is always a bad thing for a wife to leave home, go to a foreign land, and send money back home for the family, then what you have is no longer a principle, but a rule. If the article is not making a rule, then we would expect to see some counter balance to the points being made; some alternate case history to show that in some circumstances, this solution may be an acceptable option?
The fact is the article calls into question the basic motive of all who would dare to journey abroad in these situations, implying that they are really just interested in seeking riches. The theme text, after all, is Mat. 6:24. From that, what conclusion are we to draw other than such ones are merely “slaving for riches”.
When I pioneered in Latin America, I had many Bible studies with people who were desperately poor. Typical was one family of four who lived in a 10-by-15-foot hut with a sheet metal roof and sides made of splayed bamboo. The floor was dirt. The parents and two kids lived, slept, cooked and ate in the same room. They shared a communal washroom with other families. There was a hotplate on a shelf which was the stove when needed and a tiny sink with a single cold water faucet for doing all the washing, though there was a communal cold water shower. The clothes closet was a string stretched between two nails on one of the walls. I sat on a rickety wooden bench made up of discarded lumber while the four of them sat on the only bed. Their lot in life was similar to millions more. I cannot count the number of homes just like this one which I have been in. If that family had been offered an opportunity to better themselves even slightly, what would you do if asked for advice? As a Christian, you would share the relevant Bible principles with them. You might share some experiences you were personally aware of. However, recognizing in all humility your place before Christ, you would refrain from exerting any pressure so as to push them toward the decision you felt was the right one.
We do not do this in the article. The way it is presented, it creates a stigma. Anyone of our poorer brethren who may be contemplating an opportunity overseas will no longer just be weighing out the Bible principles for themselves. If they choose this course, they will be stigmatized, because this is no longer a matter of principle, but a rule.
It is very easy to sit in cushy offices surrounded by the splendid countryside of Patterson NY or the soon-to-be lakeside dwellings in Warwick and dispense this kind of ah-shucks paternalism that we North Americans are known for the world over. This isn’t exclusive to us as Jehovah’s Witnesses, but is a characteristic we share with all our fundamentalist brethren.
As I said at the outset, this study article had left me with a nagging feeling since I first read it months ago; a feeling that something fundamental was wrong. Odd to get such a feeling from a seemingly well-intentioned Scripturally-based article, isn’t it? Well, that nagging feeling went away once I realized that what was causing it was a subconscious awareness that here again was another subtle example of us imposing our will, our rules, on others. Once more, under the guise of scriptural counsel, we are usurping the authority of the Christ by circumventing the conscience of our brothers and sisters and giving them what we like to call “theocratic direction”. As we now know, that is merely a code phrase for the “traditions of men.”
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[i] It is noteworthy that 1 Timothy 5:8 is not cited anywhere in the article even though this is an overriding principle for all situations where parents are considering options for providing materially and in other ways for their young.
Archived Comments
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Comment by Chris on 2014-06-14 18:09:52
I know. Look at the offices the GB sits in. They have Apple Computers and nice offices. They have the best of everything. They have no idea what it's like to struggle. They show that those who go to college work excess hours. Are you kidding me. I worked 3 jobs before I finished college. Now I have weekends and holidays off because of my degree. I get off at 2:20 everyday. Whereas when I had no degree I worked all of the time with no time for service. So how is college bad ?
Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-14 18:36:25
College is bad, and university worse, because it promotes critical thinking.
Reply by Chris on 2014-06-15 07:56:58
Yup. So if bills cost $1400 a month and you make $7.77 an hour how many hours a month do you have work work? And if they don't give you but 20 hours a week. Uh oh. Second job is coming. Here is more time away from family and worship. For gods sake go to college and more more in less. They don't understand that.
Comment by Anonymous on 2014-06-14 18:23:53
Speaking about no one can serve two masters: can one serve God and an organization?
What happens when the interests of an organization comes into conflict with bible truth? Will bible truth be adhered to above the interests of the organization; or will the interests of the organization be made to triumph by disguising it as "Jehovah's direction" at this time and/or through the twisting of the meaning of the conflicting bible verses?
The principle that no one can serve two masters is not limited to money, although Jesus made that specific application. It can also apply when one gives unconditional loyalty and obedience to an organization. And it is especially insidious when the organization presents itself as "Jehovah's organization", and it's direction as "Jehovah's direction", thus lulling the conscience into rationalizing obedience to any and every direction coming from the organization as if coming from Jehovah himself.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-14 18:37:29
Well said!
Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-06-14 23:57:44
Chris, Good for you for getting that college degree!!
Study theme text: “No one can slave for two masters…You cannot slave for God and for Riches”—Mat. 6:24
I think the Watchtower completely misses the whole point of Matthew 6:24 which is that "No one can slave for two masters", with riches being only one example of one master.
As an example, suppose we interchanged "Riches" with, say, "The Governing Body".
Comment by Katrina on 2014-06-15 00:51:10
One shoe size fits all attitude again!
I haven't read the article as yet, so I may be jumping the gun here, did they use the bible principle from 1Tim...
1 Timothy 5:8 (KJ21)
8 But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel.
I am sure many b/s in a situation where traveling or moving to another country for work would be the only option to support their families, and given the experience of many from poorer countries as Meleti mentioned may be the only option for the family.
However I do know of a few brothers that have moved to other countries permanently because of the work options, they are not poor by any standards, and there are ones quite well of that have businesses in their native born country that live six months of the year and then come back to their adopted country, at times the wife is here on her own for months, then goes back and forth, however the stop this when they reach the pension age.
But still it really is their business isn't it, their conscience and their free will.
Because of the one shoe size fits all attitude the whole group is stigmatized.
One wonders what the GB think when as they have no bills, no worries of financial things, they are looked after, yet have the hide to stigmatise the brothers as materialistic.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 08:29:26
No Katrina, they didn't refer to 1 Tim. 5:8. That omission is very telling, IMHO.
Comment by JB on 2014-06-15 02:20:02
The 11th paragraph puts the final point : The family study is vital for us to survive the Great Day ... OK I'm convinced, I'll pack my suitcases ...
I'm sorry to sound sarcastic but this article made me rather angry. First of all, the organization could give a first example for stopping to worry about material possibilities and put their faith in Jehovah by stopping the congregations for a "committed amount" of contributions. They are one of those who put a financial strain on their fellow brothers and sisters.
Secondly, what does having two masters really mean, from the wealth perspective ? What kind of financial shortage can make you push to move to another country leaving your family back ? Buying a Ferrari ?
Millions around the world have difficulties for reaching to adequate food, but also, an appropriate home, appropriate sanitary environment, healthcare and education. I don't find anything wrong for someone trying to improve those for his/her loved ones. Besides your mention to the relative verse in 1 Timothy makes it clear too.
But there are people who pursue material objectives to such an extent that, from the moment they wake up till the moment they go to bed for an agitated sleep their minds are occupied mostly with that. Many people want to accumulate wealth to an extent they even cannot spend it, and they have dreams of grand lives. Not just properly feeding and educating their children.
We live in an unequal world and it's not these poor brothers' and sisters' fault. Wachtower should stop pointing at them and using their lives as material when the topic "two masters" is mentioned. You mentioned about a nagging feeling but to me it raises way more than that ...
Thirdly, where exactly can we see a "solution" for them in this article ? Basically it recommends, "go back to starve and pray" - pray like, the stones to turn into bread ? ... For someone who read only WT's I'm sure it's not evident but there are many many initiatives driven throughout the world in order to relieve people living in poverty. There have been many things, not only charity activities that turn out out to be quite clever, but also new business models aiming at social benefits rather than "share holder benefit". As a global community, JW's could have a huge advantage investigating into models and write and do something about making those brothers and sisters' lives a little more bearable and give them more dignity !
I see none of such creativity anywhere regarding this. The best thing the brothers and sister in more "privileged" parts of the world can do is keeping silent about others' lives.
I truly don't want to offend anyone but I think there is something I cannot help but saying. For a spiritual growth, I ceased reading WT articles since long. The only times I read them are when they are referenced, so that I understand the article at hand better. This particular WT article is a good example of why I don't read WT for spiritual growth.
Thank you very much for this article and I hope my (over)reaction doesn't offend anyone.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 08:55:29
I concur, JB. Jesus, who literally had only the "shirt on his back" made arrangement to provide monies for the poor out of the funds that were given him. We prize organization above all things and yet with all our organizational arrangements, we make no organizational provision for the poor among us. We dismiss accusations that we don't provide for the poor by stating that Christianity is not a social religion. Our funds go so supporting the preaching work. Yet we spend millions of dollars in time and funds to provide gifts for visiting delegates at international conventions. We spend millions building luxurious kingdom halls when we could meet in the homes of our brothers like first century Christians did. If we can do all this, why can't we provide for the poor among our ranks? True, as Jesus said, "the poor you will always have." However, that didn't stop him from showing love for them by helping out materially.
Reply by Jannai40 on 2014-06-17 04:31:07
As a JW it always used to worry me when brothers/sisters would use John 12:8 as a reason for not giving money to charity; we were to wait for the Kingdom to help these ones. This gave the completely wrong impression of Jesus Christ of course. Now I give to charity whenever I am moved to do so and I find this helps to bring me closer to Jesus.
Reply by JB on 2014-06-18 02:00:44
I agree Meleti, Jannai40. Of course, when such help to "our own" comes into play, it might create other "issues" like people joining for that interest. But actually, to me it doesn't matter.
I can hardly think of a stronger witnessing than actions.
Comment by mark on 2014-06-15 02:46:20
I visited the Philippines a few years ago and attended a convention their.The main speaker, a bethel elder related a story of a recently baptised brother who got a job on a commercial ocean liner.The speaker, the gist of his talk was something like”How can this brother serve Jehovah spending months at sea, away from the meetings and ministry”
It didn’t sink in straight away, but realised what a narrow minded way to think.Much of the Philippines economy relies on migrant workers sending money home to feed their families.Married to a Filipino, I have seen the poverty first hand.And know how desperate many are, a Job abroad is sometimes and often the only way to provide for their families.
I've also stayed at the Bethel in Manila on a view occasions and experienced their self contained lifestyle. Inside its like a 5 star hotel.While outside many live In poverty, squatting in make shift houses with dirt floors.Many filipino Witnesses dream of living at Bethel, as a means of getting out of the poverty.
Chris, makes a good point about the offices of the GB.They live in a “Bethel Bubble”.They live in a self contained world, every, material need is catered for.Yes, this works well for the organisation, but it might also explain the disconnect in many of their societies WT articles.Reply by menrov on 2014-06-15 04:53:08
Just been to Manila.for business. I noticed.all.the poverty. It.looks very much like I have seen in Latin America. Real poverty, real.struggle, real despair.in particular when a chils is sick, no prosperous outlook....this article is really misplaced. Narrow minded and offensive to those struggling. How can one even consider to label these a serving richdom as a slave......yes, there are people that are already financially 'save ' and still pursue more richness. But among the some 7 million JWs you will hardly find these.
I was in Manila, paid by my employing company and stayed in very nice area in very nice hotel with all comforts and food. Observing the people that hardly survive made me feel guilty somehow. I guess the GB lost this emotional binding with the weak and meek completely.
Comment by Katrina on 2014-06-15 03:12:25
I remember years ago, not sure what year, but it was announced that Bethel does not want to receive second hand cloths, only new cloths for the b/s, I remember thinking well, many b/s shop at second hand stores many of those are charities run by Christendom, a lot of b/s cannot afford new clothes.
The western world is also very expensive, the cost of utilities is constantly rising, I know quite a few JW that cannot afford heating because they are such a strict budget, since the WT relies mostly on the western world for donations, and as the poster pointed out, the new donation change puts an added burden on b/s.
A brother said from the platform a few months ago on the International assembly that there is no excuse not to go it is a command.
Now I know many families that just cannot afford the plane fair, let alone the accommodation, ones can stay with other b/s however just getting to the state for many is way over their head, especially if they have families.
The GB seem to think that we are loaded or have plenty, they do live in a bubble, they remind me of politicians some that have never held a 9 to 5 job making ends meet, out of touch with reality.
I can only imagine how some families feel and creates this them and us stigma.
The poorer countries some need to travel a long ways to get work away from their families, if this is the case then how can they deny 1Tim.
Are they just ignorant or what is their reasoning I really can't understand this article in a positive at all, in fact I find this will be offensive to many, especially those struggling to put food on the table for families, let alone all the other necessities, like medical and schooling, clothing, utilities, the list goes on while the GB and bethel do not have to worry about any of these things. The article is offensive.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 09:12:23
Back in the 70s at an international convention in Latin America, I was working in the kitchen. Back then the food department was expected to make a profit, because that was how the assemblies were funded for the most part, between food profits and voluntary donations. Any excess was divided between a start-up fund for the next assembly and a donation to the branch. We had a brother working for us in the kitchen. Quiet brother who just did his job. A hard worker. At one point, I told him to take some time off and go get himself some lunch as he'd been working steadily through the lunch hour. He said he didn't have the money for food. He'd spent all he had just getting to the assembly. My heart leapt to my throat at hearing that, and with the rest of the staff we made sure he had all he wanted to eat for the rest of the assembly. I only wonder how may others were in his position. But we made no provision for feeding the poor. That was Jehovah's job, not ours.
It's all well and good to say the brothers should stay home and get work there, but the reality of their work options is beyond the comprehension of anyone who has been raised in the land of plenty and how works in idyllic surrounding and is served his three-square meals a day prepared by others and served by wait staff.Reply by ibroatsc50 on 2014-06-19 09:46:21
I remember going to those international assemblies in the 70's and being a young boy I never realized how much my mother sacrificed to get us there. My father was an "unbeliever" and wouldnt support her with family finances so she would scrape and save every dime she could to make it there.
At the time I thought it was fun to go there but now as a grown man with a family of my own I understand why she was so stressed at the assemblies that she didnt enjoy the program.
I no longer attend the meetings and I go out of my way to avoid contact with JWs on a personal level because they make me wish I had never been to a kingdom hall
Comment by Jannai40 on 2014-06-15 03:40:57
"By obeying principles, we submit directly to our head, Jesus Christ." So it's necessary to be able to understand those principles and how they apply and in order to do that one needs to read the Bible - there is precious little of that done at the Kingdom Hall, sadly. So you don't need to think, just do as you are told - not healthy!
Comment by SilverTop on 2014-06-15 04:57:58
This is amazing! I can so totally relate to all the comments here. The GB is saying something on the one hand and saying something entirely different on the other hand. Don't get an education that will enable you to do better in life, YET, send us your hard-earned money as we know better than you how to spend it, "WE ARE THE VOICE OF GOD" Amazing! My sister called me a month ago, in tears, she didn't have enough to eat, she was really struggling. At the time I simply couldn't as I have several bills of my own to handle. Anyway, long story short, I call her the other day and she is all smiles, her financial situation has been resolved and all is right with her world, then she drops this bomb on me...The sign-language cong to which she belongs made the 'strong suggestion' that members purchase and use a tablet to show the deaf in the community the Watchtower material. I asked her if the WTBTS is going to offer any financial assistance and she said, "No", that's up to us, but it's only 80.00 a month, I mean who can't pay that?" I nearly dropped the phone. Here she was a few weeks ago, wondering how she was gonna eat, and now shes going into debt to get a tablet to use out in field service?!? This to me is yet another example of the society talking out of both sides of it's mouth.
We can't deny that it takes money to live in today's world. The WTBTS acts as if one can just thrust one's hand out to the trees and grasp $20. bills. I apologize if the tone of my post is critical, but I am fed up. I don't even tell people anymore that I'm a JW. I tell people I am a Christian without boundaries.
Agape,
SilvertopReply by Chris on 2014-06-15 08:12:34
OMG. I'm the same way. I feel embarrassed to say I'm one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Comment by mark on 2014-06-15 05:20:59
Just to add to my previous comment.The setup at bethel’s are cost effective and efficient in producing WT literature. It would appear that the GB are not materialistic.And its not their purpose or goal to live a luxurious lifestyle. I just feel they seem isolated from the real world.I wonder if the content or character of whats written in the publication would change if GB had real jobs and had to pay bills like the rest of us.
The apostle Paul had a day job, did't he?
Comment by JB on 2014-06-15 07:29:59
How is it possible for the GB to "live in a bubble" while they regularly travel the world to various destinations among which places where life is really hard ? Are they blind to see many people listening to them wear old clothes they keep on repairing because they can't afford new ones ?
Let's assume they are in a bubble, then how about the elders and others in the "hierarchy" who often live close to the same conditions ?
But one thing is sure : Being detached from the material concerns is the easiest for the poor :-) and I'm only half joking about this.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-15 09:10:27
Hi JB,
There is a scripture I recall where the writer is praying to God not to make him rich so that he forgets God, nor poor so that he curses God. I think it was Asaph who wrote it, though I can't remember for sure. It was decades ago. I tried to find it in the WTLib, but couldn't. Perhaps one of our readers could help us out with that.
In any case, the text resonated with me back then because in preaching to chose communities, we found that people who were desperately poor didn't accept our message anymore readily than the very rich. It was the middle class and the well-to-do poor (a class below middle and above destitute) who most responded. A man thinking about keeping himself and his children from starvation for yet another day isn't very disposed to think well of God.
Those people simply don't have the opportunity which we have to know God. However, God is righteous. He will put all things right.Reply by JB on 2014-06-15 09:30:25
Hi Meleti, thank you for your point of view. I didn't know about the general reaction of very poor people against spiritual matters.
Comment by yobec on 2014-06-15 10:11:45
Proverbs 30 :8 .....give me neither riches nor poverty,,,
Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 09:23:00
I knew someone would be able to recall it for me. Thank you, yobec.
Comment by mark on 2014-06-15 10:50:24
JB. Anyone can see that there is poverty in the world, they don’t have to get on a plane and see it.
Maybe I shouldn’t of used the phrase “living in a bubble”.But, rather just described it as it is. That they (GB) live in a self contained building complex.No bills to worry about, They have their food prepared and served for them.Their clothes washed and pressed for them.Their apartments regularly cleaned and maintained.They travel all over the world being treated rather well and a little revered by many. They're not exactly experiencing, the everyday futility and grind that most of the planet is going through.
My point really is that Jesus Christ and the apostles lived and worked amongst and with the people.They didn’t build or live in a self contained building complex which provided all their material needs.I think the polarity between the apostles and the GB's lifestyle is significant.And, I feel it says a lot on how the GB perceive themselves, which seems much different to the apostles.
"For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God". (1 Thess. 2:9 )
"For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you" (2 Thess. 3:7-8 )
Regarding the elders and the rest of the hierarchy they don,t decide what goes in the magsReply by JB on 2014-06-15 12:16:05
Hi Mark, actually my comment lacked clarity apologies for this. You're very right about the fact that poverty is not an unknown topic but I must admit it never hit me that much until I had a chance to see it. I also had possibilities to travel a little for my work and indeed, it's quite a different thing to see how people live and talk with the locals about their daily lives in more details.
Actually "living in a bubble" is quite the right word in my opinion and I think it is the situation about the GB. My comment was mainly my surprize that at least they could have their eyes opened having a similar experience as mine, or many others, by seeing how people struggle daily.
The reason why I mentioned about the elders and others is, although they don't determine what goes in the mags, I heard from so many of them the same points as if they lived in the same bubble ... That's quite amazing.
I also agree with your other comments.The reason for a group to be full time engaged is probably the global scope of the organization. But did the followers of Jesus really need one ?
Comment by Jannai40 on 2014-06-15 11:42:56
As JW's we used to proudly say that if Jesus came back to day as a man he would be one of Jehovah's Witnesses at the Kingdom Hall - where on earth did we get that idea from!! Talk about mind control! It's good to keep a sense of humour.
Reply by JB on 2014-06-15 12:18:43
No JW would be allowed to speak to him, as he would probably be disfellowshipped as an apostate :-)
Reply by on 2014-06-15 16:40:57
And with his beard he wouldnt even be allowed hold a microphone in our local congregation kev
Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 09:31:44
:)
Comment by search4truth on 2014-06-15 12:52:50
Being immigrant myself I know first hand how does it feel being criticised for decision to move to different country and get better life for my family. My family member was an elder and decided to move with us and he was openly criticised during elders meeting for being materialistic and accused of leaving Jehova . He and his family after they moved joined local congregation and continued in the normal Jw routine attending meetings etc, but body of elders back in his country did't recommended him as an elder and he is not an elder since them. Some brothers and sister refused to speak to us and openly criticised our decision. Although some brothers after getting some evidence that our spiritual health was't damaged changed their stance and apologised. I don't understand why some Jw are so judgmental. Sadly this kind of judgmental behaviour is promoted quite often in wt magazines in the articles like this.
Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-16 09:29:23
So sorry to hear you had to go through that, search4truth. Being misjudged means that we are saying in the reproach of the Christ, which despite the difficulty of the tribulation works out for us an approved state which is of lasting value. (Heb. 11:26; 2 Cor. 4:17; Romans 5:3-5)
Comment by Sargon on 2014-06-15 15:38:07
I served in a foreign language for several years. We couldn't use hardly any of the native speakers. Why? Because they were too busy working just to put food on the table. They did not have extra time to prepare talks and go to extra meetings. Me as a college grad had all the time in the world to do RBC travel to foreign countries and attend extra meetings. Even then I never agreed with the organization on education. I felt that it needlessly made people be trapped working lower paying jobs. Learning engineering, nursing, accounting etc does not make someone materialistic or a corporate slave who neglects their family to get ahead.
Comment by Christopher Johns on 2014-06-15 17:40:57
My question is why do we stay Jehovah's Witnesses? I mean when we preach, it is to convert someone who may already be Christians. Has anyone ever thought that if we were wrong about certain doctrines and we just converted someone that God would look down on us? I've always thought that if we were wrong then I just converted someone to the wrong religion :( . Jehovah reads the heart not church membership. This article pairs working over seas for basics with slaving for riches. She didn't slave for riches. She took care of her family.
Comment by Katrina on 2014-06-16 00:51:35
All this is because the org is run by Pharisees, they have the mind set of Pharisees passed down to the flock.
If one has the mind of Christ and recognises he is the only one to listen to then none of this would be going on and those b/s would be much healthier spiritually and there would be less depression less anxiety less judgment and condemnation of others.
We are dealing with a controlling mind set passed down to the elders, inflicting the flock.
John 14:The Way, the Truth, and the Life
5Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?" 6Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. 7"If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him."…
Comment by Christian on 2014-06-16 07:11:54
For some reason I was thinking about 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 when I read your comment Katrina, especially verse 19 and Hebrews 12:1-3 especially verse 3
" But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
The irony of our predicament in the face of those who would call themselves Christ's brothers is somewhat amusing but oddly encouraging don't you think.
Comment by on 2014-06-16 16:04:28
In the article the interpretation seemed about right but the application Is probably off .its a DIY .application .if the next article was about the importance of allowing others to express their own faith and make their own choices in life and not judging others decisions it would be ok . From what ive seen its those type of articles the brothers need . Kev
Comment by peely on 2014-06-16 16:18:56
Yes, the organization is run by modern day Pharisees, as Katrina says. Would any true worshiper of God expect obedience of others for themselves? The brothers and sisters that are blinded have deceived themselves into thinking that pleasing men and pleasing God are the same thing.
Gal 1:10 - Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Interesting how well put the Phillip's translation for Matt 6:24 reads:
“No one can be loyal to two masters. He is bound to hate one and love the other, or support one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and the power of money at the same time.”
Money is power, and the Watchtower definitely has it. I did not read this Watchtower article, and don't intend to; I see it as a hypocritical act (one of many) for the GB to shake a finger at the masses who are eking out their individual living while the GB themselves "play the slots" so to speak.
Matt 4:10 - “Away with you, Satan!” replied Jesus, “the scripture says, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only you shall serve’.”
So tell me, in reality, just who is the GB worshipping?
Rev 22:3,- And there shall no longer be any cursed thing; but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in her; and his slaves shall serve him (Jubilee 2000)
It is my humble opinion from reading the scriptures that the only organization that can bear the Father's name is His spiritual temple through Christ.
Eph 1:7-10 - It is through the Son, at the cost of his own blood, that we are redeemed, freely forgiven through that full and generous grace which has overflowed into our lives and opened our eyes to the truth. For God had allowed us to know the secret of his plan, and it is this: he purposes in his sovereign will that all human history shall be consummated in Christ, that everything that exists in Heaven or earth shall find its perfection and fulfilment in him. JB Phillips
1 Pet 2:5 - you yourselves, as living stones, are being built into a spiritual house for a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For it is contained in Scripture:
Look! I lay a stone in Zion,
a chosen and honored cornerstone,
and the one who believes in Him
will never be put to shame!
1 Cor 3:16, Eph 2:20-22
How easily the brothers and sister forget how we have been redeemed. A "wicked slave" has nothing to do with it.
Comment by Jannai40 on 2014-06-17 17:01:08
Katrina, I love the scripture your quoted, John 14:6,7 "Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." (NIV) What reassuring words as Jesus holds out his hand to us as we find our way out of the Organisation maze and we are no longer trapped, but free to follow our Lord and find peace and love in his care and direction.
Comment by JB on 2014-06-17 18:04:13
The following verse made me think about many practices : "By their fruit you will recognize them.", but the most important part for me is this : "Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?" (Matthew 7:16)
I cannot help but thinking these latter words, when I think about shunning family members or, like described on this article, being target for some life choices ... Anything that makes you feel bad, directly or indirectly - can it be part of the True Worship ?
Comment by peely on 2014-06-17 18:30:17
JB, we know....
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17.
If we look for those providing the fine fruit, which takes work, there is only relief, with no feeling of remorse, in knowing it is truth at last. Christ leads us to it as he is that truth.
"Don’t link up with unbelievers and try to work with them. What common interest can there be between goodness and evil? How can light and darkness share life together? How can there be harmony between Christ and the devil? What business can a believer have with an unbeliever? What common ground can idols hold with the temple of God? For we, remember, are ourselves living temples of the living God, as God has said: ‘I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be my people’." 2 Cor 6:14-16Reply by JB on 2014-06-18 01:56:58
I agree peely, that the sense of relief should be the result of finding, or engaging in the path of, the truth.
But reading 2.Cor excerpt, and thinking about today, I still wonder about the definition of an "unbeliever". Where would be the line. Would it be believing in another religion, having different opinion on various matters ? As Paul mentions about the idols, I guess it's about that. It's still quite difficult for me to associate someone to evil, or darkness, just because they have different convictions, even after coming across to Christian teachings.
Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-06-17 20:59:59
JB, I think I understand what you mean by your quoting the scripture "The following verse made me think about many practices : “By their fruit you will recognize them.”, but the most important part for me is this : “Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?” (Matthew 7:16)"
I believe it applies to all of us, even to Jehovah's Witnesses. We may think we are producing good fruit by our actions; but if we are a thornbush inside....we will never product a good fruit like grapes. JW's may think they are pleasing Jehovah when they practice shunning, or judging a person for the way they support their family, but what if they are considered to be a thornbush inside? They can only produce thorns, even though they believe it is grapes.
As I said, the same is true of all of us, it is by our fruits or actions that we are made known to Jesus, who sees the heart and knows our thoughts and motives. We might have the whole world fooled, including ourselves, but Jesus can never be tricked.
It's true enough, we may do something pleasing to Jesus every once in a while, he knows our true motives. Even a broken clock is right twice a day. In the end, it's still just a broken clock.
Jesus has mercy, so he can forgive us whether we feel like we deserve it or not. That is what grace is all about. He gives it to us freely. And it's a good thing Jesus does the judging, if it were up to man to judge, it's doubtful any of us would be able to hold out any hope at all.Reply by JB on 2014-06-18 01:45:34
I so much agree with you IMACOUNTRYGIRL2, and it's indeed interesting you mentioned Jesus, who actually showed mercy and there was nothing but good about him. People felt good in his company. His message just rhymed with what was visible of him.
I often think about some brothers or sisters I had the pleasure of knowing in my childhood. They were such comforting, gentle people ! They were comparable to a magnet, whenever I came across them I felt like talking to them, spending time with them. For the field service, I always tried to arrange to go with them. They would just make you feel so much at ease and always discuss about positive subjects. I never felt pressure with them nor I needed to hear how I should be as a teenager, etc etc. In exchange, I felt like talking hours to them.
I've always thought those brothers and sisters are the best living message. Love, respect and kindness are part of them. They were truly "thornless" people. Kind of people one would really take as role model.
On the other hand, regardless of how positive someone's message is, if a person doesn't give the same level of assurance, or make you feel uneasy with their company - I happen to compare their influence to "thornbushes and thistles" ...
Comment by akismet-439c28cc98685d819bcf7fc7204356d1 on 2014-06-20 05:32:29
I've got to be honest, when I read the article I do not feel the same reaction to it that many seem to have. When I look at the social engineering that is taking place, I do not think that there is any harm in speaking against it. Some of these countries have a cultural pressure on individuals, not just to go away to work, but to provide support also to EXTENDED family. It is quite frankly absurd and also unscriptural. I don't believe counsel on taking care of your family properly is misplaced or a waste of time.
I'm not saying there should be a rule that it is wrong for one parent to go away to work - that is the parents decision and there are consequences to that decision. You may obtain the things you need, or feel you need materially, but your family/children WILL suffer and the resentment will feed back one way or another.
It is not always about being poor. There are far too many even in wealthy nations that put themselves and their work above their family and children, tied to their computer/phone or travelling all the time. There are many who pass their children around to various relatives throughout the week as well. It is changing attitudes and cultural pressure that gradually made this normal and acceptable. It is in these situations that 1 Tim 5:8 also applies. So I believe an article like this can speak to such ones also.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-20 06:15:17
The problems due to changing cultural pressures you describe are real and very much need to be addressed. You are quite correct in saying that "it is in these situations that 1 Tim. 5:8 also applies". Unfortunately, his article makes no reference to 1 Tim. 5:8 nor does it address all the valid issues you've raised. Instead, it paints all individual who travel abroad for work with the same brush, thus stigmatizing them.
Reply by on 2014-06-20 06:31:17
I totally agree. I think people neglected to read that at the beginning of the article it set the tone for a mother working abroad so get son could have the nicer things other kids did. That to me says ipad or something nice. It didn't mention poor. So I think many readers applied this to those who are poor and need work which is not what the article was speaking of.
Reply by koalaboy on 2014-06-20 06:36:45
Good comment Akismet. I have spent more than $30,000.00 on my brother-in-law alone [10 years] and that doesn't include my wife's trips to see her family who are not witnesses. They bleed us constantly with their excuses why they need more. Next month my wife is going to see her family and demand to see their bank details. They have lied to us 2 years ago and used "medical funds" to buy a laptop and a second fridge. They have used our money to smoke and drink too. And they come from a 'poor country' but have wasted some of the money on useless stuff that is stuffed into boxes and never seen again. Just today we found out from a relative about some more waste that is upsetting. I worked with my hands working 12 hour days and am happy to help friends and family but in my case I have had worldly friends and worldly relatives use me like I am an ATM. No more. :o(
Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-06-21 00:21:18
Christopher Johns, You asked: "My question is why do we stay Jehovah’s Witnesses? I mean when we preach, it is to convert someone who may already be Christians. Has anyone ever thought that if we were wrong about certain doctrines and we just converted someone that God would look down on us? I’ve always thought that if we were wrong then I just converted someone to the wrong religion :( . Jehovah reads the heart not church membership. This article pairs working over seas for basics with slaving for riches. She didn’t slave for riches. She took care of her family."
That's a very astute question. Have you asked yourself why you stay? Do you have family that would shun you if you walked away? Would you lose all your friends and support network? Those are some of the reasons why some choose to stay on as Jehovah's Witnesses.
The point is that it is an individual choice that each of us face or has already faced. You yourself said that it is Jesus who reads hearts. Matthew 9:4 I believe it all comes down to our own personal conscience and how it is led by Holy Spirit. Romans 8:14 Some have been troubled by their conscience to the point they could no longer remain among an organization led by men who put themselves above Jesus and claim salvation is only through Jehovah. Some have either disassociated themselves or they gradually fade away.
Often, the real test comes after you have left. You have to rebuild not only your life, but also you have to unlearn the truth you have believed for years and you have to re-learn the truth about the truth. You have to figure out where you are in your spiritual journey, your knowledge and growth of understanding? Do you have a clear belief that Jehovah God is our Heavenly Father and that Jesus, his only begotten son, is our only Salvation? Matthew 6: 9 Acts 4:12
You only have one life that you can live, there can be hope for a brighter future, lessons learned from what has happened in the past, but the only joy we will ever have is RIGHT NOW. This can be your chance to make choices about what direction you want your life to go in. Some go to college they missed out on when they were younger, some choose to buy a home for themselves, or find a hobby they never had time for before. You must live every moment to the fullest. The freedom you experience from being set free from man's control over you is amazing, exhilarating and gives you peace of mind when you are living in harmony with Jesus example and the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:19-21
It is very scary to leave, especially if you have been a Witness for many years. You don't know any worldly people as they are "evil" and going to be destroyed at Armageddon. Or so you have been lead to believe.
It is very challenging to maintain a close relationship with Our Lord Jesus, when you don't have any contact with others to share in an interchange of encouragement. If you are like me and live in the USA, you probably have Christians near you and never recognized them before because you were too busy judging them and condemning them.
Leaving calls for discernment, for just as their are sheep inside the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses, their are also sheep found in either other churches or who have chosen not to attend any church and just try to live their lives guided by Jesus words to Love God and Love Your Neighbor.
By their actions and by their fruit-age, they will make themselves known to you by means of Holy Spirit. Matthew 7:15-20 It is possible to be mutually up-building to each other when you find another who acknowledges Jesus as their Savior. There are also sites on the internet, like this one, where you can be fed solid food based on God's Word, the Bible. Also sites for much needed encouragement.
You are correct about the preaching work, no matter what you have in your hands, when you call on someone's house with a Scriptural reference, you are assumed to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses, it is their trademark.
Only your conscience can guide you as to whether or not that is something you want to participate in. Jesus is not judging us based on how many hours we spend going door to door, or even if we are going door to door, he is judging us based on our hearts, our thoughts and our motives.He is watching how we treat the poor, the sick, the downtrodden ones, the homeless ones, the depressed ones, the elderly, the disabled. It is how we treat the least of these that matters, they are also Jesus brothers and sisters, his precious sheep. Matthew 25:34-45 NIV
Comment by Jannai40 on 2014-06-21 03:06:28
Many people leave the Organisation because their conscience would no longer allow them to direct people there for reasons we all know about. There are many ways to preach the good news and bring praise to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ - you don't have to belong to an Organisation.
Reply by maxwellsmartjw on 2014-06-21 07:34:45
For this subject to merit prime time discussion, I would bet this is becoming a trend in certain disadvantaged countries. I haven't researched prior years (and it's not really relevant) but a review of year over year rate of growth in South American countries (2014 YB) may be revealing. It would be interesting to see if there is a correlation between lower growth rate in countries where more are moving to find higher paying employment. I wouldn't be surprised if they correlate.
Argentina 1 (%)
Bolivia 5
Brazil 1
Chile 2
Columbia 3
Equador 4
Paraguay 2
Peru 3
Uruguay 1
Mexico 4
It's noteworthy that growth in Brazil (#3 in the world in total publishers) and Argentina has slowed to the snails pace of US growth (1%), most of which as we know are children of baptized parents. Mexico is maintaining fairly robust growth and the Branch doesn't want to see this decline. With it being so expedient to cross the border and work in the US, I think this article is written primarily with them in mind. Not to mention, how many of those who've made it across the border to work in the US are illegal? A few years ago CO's were advised to delete all elders and servants who were illegal residents. This sweeping move created a major shortfall of servants in spanish speaking congregations across the US that remains to this day.
Many (if not most) elders/MS who migrate to the US for work can't be used in the new congregations. They leave their native congregations, often their families suffer spiritually and drift away...... so it's lose/lose, there is no upside for the organization.
While the article seems to focus on sisters moving to find better employment, I would think that much more often it's a brother that moves away to find better paying work. Why didn't the article focus on brothers? I'm thinking the counsel might not be taken well, and cause many who've migrated for work to feel judged. Much like the person who chooses to get a college education to better their prospects for higher paying employment. They are judged.
My 2 cents is, it would be fine to outline the potential risks (and make practical suggestions) for families separating for a time. It's quite another thing to judge them for making their own conscientious decision.
MaxwellReply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-21 07:50:46
Hi Maxwell,
I had wondered as well as to why they focused on sisters in the article. I agree that it is likely that more brothers immigrate for work than sisters. I also agree with you that giving counsel based on Scripture can be helpful, but passing judgment is quite another thing.
Comment by Mailman (@Nico_CAN_DO) on 2014-06-22 05:24:41
Even my wife who's a devout JW for more than 22 years finds the Matt. 6:24 off from the discussions. I think her eyes are slowly being opened after my more than 1 year of probing the truth as the WT has taught us. Caring for the family when one feels there's no way out but to leave one's country for better compensation is definitely not serving riches per se. The verse I thought was misplaced.
Comment by Mailman (@Nico_CAN_DO) on 2014-06-22 05:49:44
The article should not miss the real point of going abroad for the family. The father or the mother is flying off not because of having the opportunity to buy nice things like toys or expensive gadgets for their children. It's because of providing them a good if not the best education. In the Philippines, education is the best gift a parent can give his/her child. Nevertheless, I agree with the article's point that leaving one's minor child can have some serious psychological impact on the child and his relationship with the migrating parent (overseas worker). But I guess not in all cases.
When I was about 13 years old in the 80's, my mom left us for the middle east. It was very sad for my sister and I to see her leave. We cried while she was even here especially when it was the last time she brought us to school. At that time, social media was not even born yet. No chats, not email, no virtual face to face communication to use. Yet, even with the long distance barrier and absence of technology, we loved our mom and we understood her reasons for leaving. Our relationship with her never soured. We never became bitter. She loved us too much. Yet we never became liabilities of society. Her efforts paved the way for us to graduate from school. She passed away middle of 1990's. I guess our heavenly Father, knew her in her heart that she did all the sacrifice for her family - not because she likes them to live extravagant lives but to have a decent living and afford a decent education for her children. And certainly not to become servants of riches as painted by the WT.
Comment by Sargon on 2014-06-22 15:09:08
I love naw the article mentioned that those who move abroad aren't doing it to jest provide daily food for their children. Well duh! If people who were too poor to eat could send a parent abroad they would. However people who are that poor are only worried about day to day survival. People who do go abroad are not the poorest of the poor. They have enough so that they can at least plan for the future. There is nothing wrong with planning for the future. The article should have helped people weigh the pros and cons without trying to judge and guilt them. JWs don't know how to think because they are constantly relying on milk from "mother" to tell them what to do. They remain spiritual babes.
Reply by on 2014-06-22 15:28:38
I think it's also because of the GB lived in the Philippines they would have a differing opinion. But they live the best lives possible. Just like the president who doesn't spend his own money but still has everything? Well the GB boats about not making money but has the best of everything. I bet they sleep on Egyptian and Silk sheets