The Governing Body (GB) of Jehovah’s Witnesses recently laid claim to the title of Faithful and Discreet Slave or FDS based on its interpretation of Matthew 25:45-37. As such, the members of that body claim that truth is revealed exclusively through them in the publications they produce:
“We must serve Jehovah in truth, as revealed in his Word and made clear in the publications of the faithful and discreet slave.” (w96 5/15 p.18)
Sincere students of God’s Word who yearn for deeper understanding of Scripture are naturally driven to do research. (Heb 5:14; 6:1) This well describes those of us who participate on Beroean Pickets and Discuss The Truth. I realize that much of what is said in this article is “preaching to the choir”, but there are those who may be visiting for the first time, as well as those who frequent the site but have yet to join and participate in fellowship. Some feel a measure of guilt because they are stepping outside the indoctrination of those they believe are the faithful and discreet slave that Jesus appointed in 1919.
Our individual journey of awakening begins when we come to grips with the reality that, despite what anyone else says, we must carefully examine the Scriptures for ourselves to prove that what is presented by the FDS is truth.[i] The vast majority of active Jehovah’s Witnesses accept the Governing Body’s claim that truth is exclusive to the publications and broadcasts they produce. But how does one arrive at a balanced and unbiased understanding if the only research material available comes from a single source? When stepping outside the box, it becomes painfully evident that many of our teachings are so peculiar that they can exist only within the pages of WT publications. They cannot be proven using only the Bible. Is it not a prerequisite for Bible truth to be provable using God’s Word? If a teaching cannot be proved using only the Bible, it must mean that men have added to what is written to support it. It therefore becomes clearly a teaching of men, not Christ. (Acts 17:11) ; 1 Cor 4:6)
Our experience in the search for truth could be compared to the process of buying a new car.
Buying A New Car
Let’s say we’re in the market for a new car. Before purchasing, we want to do research. We have a make and model in mind, so we go to the manufacturer’s website to learn more. We drive to the dealer and read the brochures and other promotional material. We test drive the car. We spend hours talking to different salespersons, even the service manager. All echo the same claim as the manufacturer, namely, their model (and brand) is better than all the rest. We now have two options:
- Trust what is presented on the website. Trust what is written in the promotional materials. Trust what the salesman and service manager claim. Make this the extent of our research and buy the car.
- Research other brands, take test drives, see how they compare. Search the internet, read everything available about any car we’re considering. Go into online auto forums and read the comments of those with firsthand experience with the makes and models we’re looking at. Consult reputable consumer reports and other authoritative and accredited resources. Talk to our mechanic, and only after exhaustive, extensive, well informed research do we then buy the car we’ve identified as best.
In either case, we then tell our neighbors that we own the best car on the market. However, which option best prepares us when our neighbors ask us, “How do you know for sure?”
The intent of research is not to prove the claims of the manufacturer, salesmen and service manager are false. We are mostly sold on the car in the first place, but we want to do research to give us reassurance we are not being taken in by clever marketing and our own desire for one particular make and model. The manufacturer has a vested interest. Our own emotions can also be involved as we imagine how it will feel to own that particular car, perhaps the car of our dreams. Yet, common sense must prevail for our own good. It tells us that only through outside research can we arrive at a balanced, intelligent and informed decision. Then, if the car is everything they claim it is, we can buy it.
Just as it would be unwise to limit the scope of our research when deciding on a car, it is equally unwise to limit the scope of our research when deciding what is truth. In the case of WT publications, the truth changes from year to year. We are often dumbfounded when “new light” is released, wondering what current truth is next in line to be dismissed as “old light.” The GB insists that every word in every publication is truth when it rolls off the WT printing presses. Then mysteriously, teachings that were spirit directed are abandoned by God’s holy spirit as false. Time and again we have witnessed much publicized dogma (especially surrounding dates and anti-typical prophecy interpretation) boiled down to mere opinion, speculation and conjecture. Yet were we not compelled (under threat of sanction) to present the teaching as truth while it was “current light?” Were we not then compelled (under threat of sanction) to reject that same teaching as apostate when it was no longer current?
Was “Old Light” Ever Light?
As the opening quote states, the “guardians of doctrine” tell us God’s holy spirit directs the dispensing of truth through the publications they have produced since 1919. That would necessarily mean God’s holy spirit directed the writing of pages that contain “old light” teachings. Could Jehovah’s spirit have directed the minds of brothers who conceived old light (apostate) teachings? Given the plethora of now-apostate teachings found in older publications, if God’s spirit was in fact directing Jesus’ faithful slave to write these publications, then Jehovah and Jesus are responsible for the wrong teachings. Is this even possible? (James 1:17) Isn’t it amazing how many within our ranks do not take the time to think this through?
A case in point is the Governing Body’s recent self-appointment as the FDS in October 2012. This teaching is now foremost among Jehovah’s Witnesses, as it authorizes seven individuals to interpret scripture and direct the organization. Any member who would dare openly question the scriptural validity of this teaching will face shunning. Of course, the GB insists that Jehovah’s holy spirit directed them to this new understanding. But for those of us who’ve been around for a while, doesn’t this sound a bit familiar? Did not the previous generation Governing Body insist the very same thing? Did they not claim that God’s holy spirit directed them, but to a very different conclusion, namely, that the faithful and discreet slave was all the anointed Christians alive on earth at any given time?
So we ask: Did Jehovah’s holy spirit direct the former Governing Body to teach what is now an apostate understanding? Those who claim the GB are at all times directed by God’s holy spirit must answer, Yes. But this would mean God’s holy spirit was imparting falsehoods. That’s impossible. (Heb 6:18) How long will membership allow the Governing Body to have their cake and eat it too? We could correctly define an apostate teaching as former truth. Today it’s truth, tomorrow it’s old light, in a year it’s apostasy.
How can truth turn into falsehood? Is there really such a thing as “old light”?
I once mentioned to a mature pioneer sister that I felt the term “old light” is a misnomer. I asked her if old light was ever “light?” Her response? She said: “While it was current it was light, it was correct.” So I asked if she felt our earlier “generation” teaching that those alive in 1914 would see Armageddon in their lifetime was ever “light”? She thought for a moment then replied: “No, I guess not. Since it was wrong I guess it was never light.” I ask you the reader: How many teachings of the Governing Body that were once purported as truth have become false and constitute apostasy? Were they ever light? This causes us to wonder: How many of our current teachings will be dismissed as old light in the future? Given that there are literally thousands of pages of old light teachings, could any rational person conclude that 100% of the current teachings of the faithful slave are truth? Are we not to test all things to make certain they are true? (1Th 5:21)
For those of you just beginning their journey of awakening, ask yourself: “Deep down inside, do I fear what research will reveal? Am I afraid that learning the truth will force me to make a decision?” Well, have no fear, brothers and sisters. (2 Tim 1:7; Mark 5:36)
The Life Cycle Of “Light”
When a current teaching is replaced with new light, the current teaching becomes old light. After a year or so, teaching old light constitutes apostasy. Let us illustrate the typical life cycle of “light”:
New Light >>>> Current Light >>>> Old Light >>>> Apostasy
In some cases, the life cycle repeats itself, as is the case with the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah being resurrected. This teaching has changed eight times since the days of Brother Russell:
New Light >> Old Light >> New Light >> Old Light >> New Light >> Old Light >> New Light >> Old Light >>??
I will not be surprised if soon, Kingdom hall libraries are a thing of the past. Notably, the new Kingdom hall design has no library. It won’t surprise me if the archive database in the WT CD Library becomes unavailable. Then all that will remain for the rank and file will be the online library, which is essentially sterile material from recent publications only which the Governing Body approves for consumption. Of course, this can be explained to members as merely keeping pace with Jehovah’s celestial chariot.
Restricting members from access to old light publications is a strategy to save face. But thanks to the diligence of faithful brothers and the availability of the internet, most older publications are at our fingertips. This surely troubles the guardians of doctrine. They can be disgraced by the apostate teachings of predecessors. Older publications are laden with failed predictions and misguided interpretation. Does not the record itself cast complete doubt on any claim that Jehovah’s spirit directs their every step? Did not former generations of leadership make the very same claim as do the guardians of doctrine today; namely, that Jehovah’s holy spirit directs their every step?
The Blindfold in the Library
To illustrate how the Governing Body fears outside research, imagine a large public library, such as the New York Public Library. Put yourself there to research a Bible topic, which might involve linguistic, historical and/or cultural studies. As you enter the front door, the vastness of information available (aisle after aisle of reference material) is breathtaking. As you proceed, a nice gentleman with a suit and a JW.org badge stops you and advises that since you’re a JW, you’ll need to wear a blindfold. He then escorts you to the back of the library into a very small auxiliary room and closes the door. The gentleman then says it is safe to remove the blindfold. The room is a tiny fraction of the main library. As you proceed you notice several aisles of books and periodicals that are taped off. Your guide counsels you against going down those aisles as they contain WT publications full of “old light” teachings. You finally arrive at a single aisle approved for research. This one is marked “current light”. Your guide smiles warmly and says reassuringly as you take your seat, “All you need is here.”
However, you soon find that very little is written on the topic you’re researching. What little is written may quote an outside source, but you have no way of confirming its validity, because you are unable to access the actual quote. You have no way of knowing if the quote was taken out of context; or even if it is a fair representation of the author’s position. There is so very little information available that you decide to carry on your research in the main library. As you start out, the man runs up and sternly warns you to not proceed because that would mean you are not obeying the direction of the Governing Body, the Faithful and Discreet Slave.
As puzzling (and amusing) as this illustration might seem to the non-JW, this is a fair representation of how we are expected to do research. Why do they want us blindfolded? Why do they want us confined to a single aisle of “current” research material? The fact that we are here demonstrates we have removed (or are in the process of removing) that blindfold.
Let’s return to buying a car. Remember one very simple truth: Dealership personnel are trained to exploit emotion and pressure us to buy on the spot, depending solely upon their biased sales pitch. They do not want us to do outside research, especially when the car has a history of major mechanical issues. Similarly, the Governing Body does not want us to do outside research. They are aware that JW theology has a history of “mechanical issues”. Decades ago, some of the most scholarly within our ranks did outside research on just one major tenet of our faith. The results were nothing less than disastrous. I will share that account in Part 2 of this article.
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[i] The term FDS or Faithful and Discreet Slave is used interchangeably with GB or Governing Body throughout this article. While some might object that the applying the title FDS to the GB implies that we accept their claim to being the ones Jesus Christ appointed, the reason for this rhetorical equivalence is for the benefit of those readers who have not yet come—or are just coming—to the realization that such a relationship can be questioned without it constituting a sin.
no wonder my Bible study teacher discourages me running off to learn on my own with NON JW sources. GASP!
A very interesting article, thank you. During the Australian Royal Commission, Bro. Jackson stated something quite startling to me. It was when he said that it would be “presumptuous” to think that the GB were the sole channel of Gods truth. Now, I had never doubted that they were (when I was an active witness), the only source of truth. I would love to have been able to cross examine this statement myself. I would have asked him to substantiate that statement with his opinion on who else or what other group of people may currently be involved in the… Read more »
Martin,
A very thought provoking post, thank you.
And yes, we can certainly mention this in defense of our doing outside research.
Look forward to more encouraging comments.
Sopater
[…] Part 1 of this article, we discussed why outside research is helpful if we are to arrive at a balanced, […]
100 comments ! This has certainly been one of the most interesting, and best supported, articles on Beroean Pickets in a long time. Allow me to thank all of the participants for making this such a worthwhile place to be.
Thank you for your contributions TRA. Your well written comments are powerful in content and message. You help make this a worthwhile place to be. Thank you brother.
Sopater
Thanks, Sopater. I appreciate the complement. I am continually reminded of the importance of choosing one’s words carefully, to not be argumentative, high minded or unkind, and to modestly stick to the facts. I know I don’t always succeed at that goal, but I can’t think of better place where making the effort to do so is so worthwhile.
we are all clay in our Fathers hands and learn each day, to stay soft so He can mold us ? Thank you being you, brother TRA
Oh my . While we are on the topic of research ,ive just found out about this new meeting schedule . So am i correct in saying the weekly bible reading is still going , but then the bible highlights are handled in a question and answer format based on questions found in the book . Wow if thats right the screw is thought control has been tightened a bit more at the meetings . The bible is a dangerous book .
The elders are given an answer sheet for the christian life and ministry part, and are instructed to make sure that these answers are brought out. Definitely mind-control. Also the program is worked out only a few months in advance, not a year like the TMS, so the org can chop and change it as need be. I have the answer sheets from Jan to March if anyone wants to see. Don’t know how to upload.
This is the first answer for January: “1. What is the most practical step we can take to prepare for future difficulties? (2Ch 32:7, 8) [Jan. 4, w13 11/15 20 ˚17] We should strengthen our faith in God and help our brothers to do the same. We must all be ready to obey any instructions that we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not. Now is the time for any who may be putting their trust in secular education, material things, or human institutions to adjust their thinking.” These are the instructions to… Read more »
Thanks Out of africa . Wow what a first answer . So all the highlights are cherry picked as well now . From a reading of about 5 years of the old testament , when do they start reading the CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURES about 2019 .
Anonymous, Thanks for the reference to the article in the 2016 Yearbook “The Light Keeps Getting Brighter”. I counted 26 different “rays” of new light over the last 4 years. This means that 26 “current light” items have run their useful course and are now laid to rest in the taped off aisles of “old light” JW publications. In a few years, some of these “old light” items will move over to the “apostate” aisle. If we traveled back in time to when these 26 “old light” truths were new light, imagine all the buzz and excitement? For certain, the… Read more »
These comments remind me of james 1 v17 every good and perfect gift is from above ,, it comes down from the father of lights , with whom there is no variableness , neither turning of shadow .
TRA, Nice summary of the October 15 2015 WT article “The Naive Person Believes Every Word.” Of course the internet presents a major quandary for the GB, they can’t control where an individual goes or where innocent surfing might take them. I think the “gist” of the article is to cast doubt on anything said about JW’s anywhere but the official website. For certain, a person who has read something negative will be fearful of passing it on. On my laptop a couple months ago, I showed a pioneer couple the CNN report in Australia regarding the Royal Commission investigation.… Read more »
TRA, Nice summary of the October 15 2015 WT article “The Naive Person Believes Every Word.” Of course the internet presents a major quandary for the GB. They can’t control where an individual goes or where innocent surfing might take them. I think the “gist” of the article is to cast doubt on anything said about JW’s anywhere but the official website. For certain, a person who has read something negative (even shocking) will be fearful of passing it on. On my laptop a couple months ago, I showed a pioneer couple the CNN report in Australia regarding the Royal… Read more »
Hello….I left the Watchtower in 2008. How many major teaching changes have been made and what are they? Any helpful answers will be appreciated. Thank you.
Hello Bob To my mind, there were 3 significant changes to the teachings: 1. The generation of Mat 24:33-35 is now an overlapping generation: “He evidently meant that the lives of the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914 would overlap with the lives of other anointed ones who would see the start of the great tribulation.” See WT2010 15 April. 2. The Faithful and Discreet Slave is no longer the anointed remnant, but is only the Governing Body when they meet. They along with the other anointed will be appointed over all… Read more »
Hello Bob,
And on the WT and Awake the dates are gone. Now they are given numbers. For example: WT nr. 1 2016.
All major changes are listed in the 2016 Yearbook pages 25-27 under the heading “The Light Keeps Getting Brighter”. Put your sunglasses on before proceeding
As my lad said they are the only people he knows that will write an article to “prove ” a point and then qoute thier own publications as reference material . Our friend mr anoymous said in his comment dated 23 dec 1.17am para 6 that ” we should submit , unless of course what they would teach would fall clearly outside biblical possibilities ” thank you very much . Because when i read the NT in context i realise that many things taught by the religion do ( fall clearly outside of biblical possibilities ) . Its that clear… Read more »
Interesting article at the end of october 15 watchtower , the naive believe every word . The box says to ask is the infrmation from a reliable source . ? Good point . Thanks brothers .
It is instructive to consider the October 15 2015 WT article, “The Naive Person Believes Every Word”. To me, this article, while seemingly advising people to be cautious, a commendable thing, acts to spread fear and enforce WT’s propaganda tactics, and is very insulting and demeaning to its readers. The very title is condescending, for it presumes that its readers are naïve unless they can prove otherwise. They categorize information on the internet as “true and false, useful and worthless, harmless and dangerous”, knowing that their readers will tune out the positive words and only focus on “false, worthless and… Read more »
Yes totally agree again T R A there was so much in that article that i found extremely hypocritical . There was so much there that could be applied to the religion itself . The naive person believes every word , and thats exactly what they are expecting the R and F to do as regards thier own publications . I felt what they were saying was that anything said against the organisation is lies ,slander by evil people and they are not from a trusted source . I wonder does that include the Australian Royal Commission as well .… Read more »
I used to wonder why god allowed me to go through the persecution i had in while in this religion . It was hardly ever from anyone on the outside but mainly from those on the inside . I realise now that he never . I allowed it myself because i was naive , and trusted its members and its leadership thinking they were all people who had the same attitude i had . Its so sad but i honestly feel that those who believe in god and display the fruit of the spirit are a target and easy prey… Read more »
Our family has also until recently endured a lot of persecution at the hands of elders and circuit overseers, and that was before we started looking at ‘apostate’ sites on the web. My answer lies in the parable of the wheat and the weeds. Jesus allows wheat-like christians to grow among the weeds. There are possibly wheat like ones in all different religions. In our case, the brothers couldn’t stand us as we were diligently trying to serve Jehovah wholesouled. They then tried to uproot us. I believed that Jehovah was rejecting my worship, seeing his organization was rejecting it.… Read more »
Pretty much the way i see it as well out of africa . Except i feel that this gathering work is done at the very end of the age by the angels . When they will gain enterance into the kingdom of god .
I agree with you, Father Jack. Just in some cases, like ours, we got ‘weeded’ out by bad elders and Jehovah had to intervene and transplant us before we were lost.
Yeah it seems we got “wheated “out i was pretty close to those elders , but they had thier hands tied . I heard they were upset about the whole episode ., but the very last thing one said to me was telling . That they were dedicated to the organisation but i was not and that was the problem . How sad . 20 years of friendship down the drain .
Sorry, I meant to say evokes, not invoke.
I know this article may be what you said, “preaching to the choir”. However, as basic as it may be, it invokes many layers of thought. The more I think about this subject, the more ridiculous it becomes. All of us have our personal beliefs. My beliefs are just that, MY beliefs. They are personal and unique. I may try to convince you that you should believe the same, and you may choose that. That is your choice. Even then, you may choose to reject them later. When a person starts studying with witnesses, he may be convinced of some… Read more »
Thats right vincent . The big one for me was that no one explained to me the take on the baptism statement do you realise that your baptism identifies you as one of jehovahs witnesses in association with gods spirit anionted organisation meant that i was dedicating my life to an organisation and in doing so was subject to every rule set by men at the helm . They just told me it was a dedication to god . It that was explained to me . I would never have joined the religion in the first place
I came to this site to-day as I was feeling in need of an uplift, as I generally enjoy the comments of my brothers and sisters in Christ. I almost didn’t respond to-day to the words used by Rosie Temple, but I felt I just had to say something here. Instead of being up-built, I feel somewhat torn down by such vitriol. I think most of us are concerned by the self-importance that the GB have currently shown, and this will not end well. However, if this site turns into a hate session I’m floundering somewhat, as to where else… Read more »
Hi Christian,
I removed the comment you refer to because it didn’t meet with site commenting guidelines. It is understandable that some have strong feelings and have suffered much, so this should not in any way be taken as anything more than an effort to maintain a certain tone that all have come to feel comfortable with.
Sorry to go off your point here sopater , but i was looking at 2 john this week and a good point that will bring a measure of comfort to may on this forum . Is the fact that john addressed the letter from the older man to the chosen lady . I did some research and its possible that john did not name names in case if it was intercepted and brought needless persecution on the recipitents . So like many on this site today there were those who felt it best to remain anonymous when the need called… Read more »
You are welcome FJ, thank you for your contributions. Very encouraging.
Even Jesus understood the wisdom of doing things anonymously at times. Consider Luke 22:7-13: “The day of the unfermented cakes now arrived, on which the passover [victim] must be sacrificed; 8 and he dispatched Peter and John, saying: “Go and get the passover ready for us to eat.” 9 They said to him: “Where do you want us to get [it] ready?” 10 He said to them: “Look! When YOU enter into the city a man carrying an earthenware vessel of water will meet YOU. Follow him into the house into which he enters. 11 And YOU must say to the landlord of the… Read more »
Hello everyone, It never surprises me how many times the subject of the Faithful and Discreet Slave is visited and revisited where it concerns mankind accolading themselves with this most venerable and responsible work. I am not going to repeat the many concerns that I appreciate with what the people voice here, I go along with it those concerns, big time. One of the thoughts that has repeated itself to me is some of the essence in which I think that Jesus was conveying to us. We can appreciate the very very important work of the Faithful and Discreet Slave,… Read more »
Thats fine, but it is not as simple as believing in Jehovah and Jesus is it? You also have to accept and teach the whole box and dice.If someone agreed with all the teachings bar 607, could they become a Christian? Could they become a JW? Are we preaching a different sort of good news?
Brenda, you’re right. The constant chopping and changing proves that what was proclaimed as light at the time was indeed darkness not light, hence it needed changing. But 1 John 1:5 shows that there is no darkness at all in Jehovah, so the ‘light’ was not from Him. The GB teaches that the FDS was appointed in 1919 as they had been providing spiritual food. Peter Gregerson (the brother who helped Ray Franz when he left Bethel) has a video on youtube entitled ‘Is the Watchtower God’s Only Organization’. This examines the type of food being put out shortly before… Read more »
Anon, Thank you for responding and not throwing in the towel. I do hope that you will continue to contribute here, you make some valid points and I respect your knowledge and diligence in deep study. I personally view you as sincere. Your position on all doctrinal matters is precisely where I found myself up until a few years ago. I am certain that others who contribute to this blog would say the same. I applaud you for having the courage to not just be a “lurker” that fears getting involved. You devote time to making well thought out posts.… Read more »
Anon, if I may add to the last sentence: How are we to confirm whether a teaching is erroneous or not? Can we truly “test” a teaching of the GB using only their publications? As we “test” our peculiar doctrines, these are the categories they fall into: 1. Doubtful – a view supported by few theologians 2. Very doubtful – a view supported only by JW apologists 3. Impossible – well, the date prediction done came and went 4. Ridiculous – eg the overlapping generation So Anon, what are we to do with the test results? 1. Dismiss them, trust… Read more »
Brother Sopater, to find they teach us not to partake of THE Emblems of THE Memorialevening of Jesus death, that in my view is even worse than all the wrong dates. For the first time in 38 years of being a Jehovah,s Witness I and hopefully my Hubby too, Will partake ? Thank You for THE above article. I learn everything day from all the comments too and test them like a true beroean 🙂
Sopater, I will answer your question and give a last comment related to your post. Feel free to contact me if you change your mind about engaging in charitable discussion of our genuine disagreements. It’s not something that they endorse but rather discourage because of the dangers involved for those not equipped to handle deeply entrenched things against the truth, but such activity is not addressed by that article(km 9/07) nor is it forbidden. It would be a personal choice but one that is fraught with danger for the unwary. If one decides to engage in such activity they can… Read more »
A, you said: “When it comes to issues that are ambiguous and subject to change, such as the understanding of certain prophecies, parables or symbolism, or teachings that have some fuzzy meanings of words involved, then conformity, submission to those who take the lead is exactly what a Christian should do. Again, the word “submit” means to yield against your will. It is the same word used in regard to one who would yield in a wrestling match” Gal. 3:25 is very clear. Also 2 Corinthians 1:24 is very clear. Heb. 13:17 should be read in light of these verses… Read more »
Menrov, and we obey Jesus out of love, that he and His Father showde us first, not out of fear.
Righty ho then
Anonymous, the strongly entrenched thing is 607 BCE and everything attached to it. The whole foundation is a house of cards. Once you understand that we are a spinoff of the Millerite movement the doom and gloom proclamations of impending Armageddon make sense. The invisible presence of Jesus in 1914 (was 1874) is something which Russell preached simply because Jesus didn’t return physically in 1874. Wake up to the facts, and do some serious research on the origins of “the truth”.
Anonymous, very excellent post. Would it be possible for you to qualify your alias please? We have anonymous replying to anonymous One might think it schizophrenic :<)
Thank you
Ha ha, that is a distinct possibility 😉
The irony of the 607 vs. 587 debacle is that WT has LONG known that 607 had no support among respected historians and archeologists. The organization knew as far back as 1922, in a WT article called “Chronology”, that there was NO evidence for 607, but only for 587. Yet, the anchor date WT uses as the basis of ITS chronology, the “absolute date” of 539 BC as the fall of Babylon, is confirmed by the very same secular historians they deride, ridicule and reject for saying Jerusalem was destroyed in 587 BC. The two dates are confirmed by the… Read more »
1 timothy 1 ;3 to 7 and 1 timothy 6;3 to 5 also titus 3;9
Thanks for the article, I am sure this will be helpful to many. I have done much independent research and have found that reading much of it has been like drinking pure, refreshing Spring water, and has made me aware that now in the JW Organization there exists only a spiritual desert. Of course one has to be extremely wary, we are reading the thoughts of men, not God, when researching, but with due caution we can find many true gems. One thing I have come to be sure of is that the Parable of the Discreet and Evil slaves/servants… Read more »
I enjoyed your comment Harrison, I agree it is wise to be cautious when doing research. I find it very comforting that within our fellowship we are surrounded by a multitude of counselors. We share the same agenda, namely, to learn truth. Having a similar pedigreed, we’re all related in the faith and feel like family.
Phileo,
Sopater
Thats right harrison its all about wether we are willing to help our brothers when they are in need . What do we do .do we mistreat our brothers or do we love them enough to help them . ? Its a very clear principle that runs through most of the NT .
Just studied 1 john and he makes it very clear what christianity is all about and what is expected of us and what is not .
Hi Father Jack,
When I read 1 John I don’t see “expectations” or a checklist of rules. I see a Love story between God and his beloved creation. He teaches how to express that same love to others.
Yes thanks god s word your right of course , perhaps i did not express myself that well there . I think the letter lays down plainly what true christianity is all about . Love . Thanks for your correction sister .FJ
To me, one of the most beautiful verses in the Bible is 1 John 4:18. Perfect love throws fears outside, or casts it away. So much of what drives the conscience ond psyche of JWs is fear, not love. The NWT translation here says fear exercises a restraint, and that’s basically true, but most translations say that fear is, or involves, punishment. That is so true for a JW. Not only do their own fears restrain their free exercise of love, but fear of punishment by their own elders prevents them from being a religion truly motivated by godly love.… Read more »
Yes unfortunately your right TRA, I think by memory in the early 1990’s the GB of that time tried to introduce a series of articles about Jehovah’s love and other qualities, and I think for a moment in that time period, that tension built up by fear, of Armageddon, ‘have you done enough’ etc, was loosened up and focus was changing. However as they say,’people or GB’s are creatures of habit’ that fear is put back into the brothers since 2001. just in a bible discussion yesterday, with a witness family that ‘fear’ is alive and well.
Welcome to the forum as an author, Sopater. I enjoyed your article and look forward to many more. May our Heavenly Father bless you and your family.
Thank you Alex, I’m honored to have been given the privilege to contribute here. May you and your family likewise be blessed.
Rotherham (aka Anonymous) TRA has responded to much of what you said, so I will refrain from being redundant. I do wish to comment on one statement you made: You said: “If you feel that there is something that “we” have clearly missed, please give an example. You have the email and the links I provided at truetheology dot net so we can dialogue on what you think are false teachings.” You use the personal pronoun “we”, which leads me to the conclusion that you are either part of the group that claims to dispense “food at the proper time”,… Read more »
Sopater, I will answer your question and give a last comment related to your post. Feel free to contact me if you change your mind about engaging in charitable discussion of our genuine disagreements. It’s not something that they endorse but rather discourage because of the dangers involved for those not equipped to handle deeply entrenched things against the truth, but such activity is not addressed by that article(km 9/07) nor is it forbidden. It would be a personal choice but one that is fraught with danger for the unwary. If one decides to engage in such activity they can… Read more »
Hi Anonymous, we should submit, unless of course what they would teach would fall clearly outside Biblical possibilities. By these words, you acknowledge that there are limitations. Our submission to those taking the lead is not absolute. The question is, who determines what is “outside of Biblical possibilities”? It cannot be the same ones to whom we are to submit, otherwise, the process is meaningless. Therefore, it is up to each of us to determine what is Scriptural and what is not. Our submission is conditional, because we can only truly submit to one, the Christ, if we are to… Read more »
Meleti,
Well said. I love the restaurant analogy. If they were truly humble like waiters,they would welcome any constructive suggestions regarding how the dish could be improved. For example, taste, nutritional value and presentation. We could even mention a similar dish is served in a competing restaurant tastes much better, and they wouldn’t be offended. They would likely go try it for themselves and see how they could improve.
Pride and arrogance stand in the way of their acknowledging that some of the dishes they serve need to be removed from the menu.
I felt compelled to add the following to my comment. In considering He 13:17, we must not overlook the related verse 7: Remember those who are taking the lead among you, who have spoken the word of God to you, and as you contemplate how their conduct turns out, imitate their faith. (He 13:7) Clearly the writer is referring to the same ones taking the lead. Here, however, he adds a qualifier. The ones taking the lead among us have “spoken the word of God” to us. Therefore, if we believe that a group of men, such as the Pope… Read more »
Who really is the faithful and discreet slave? That is the million dollar question. And the second question is, who really is the true anonymous? 😉 I personally would rather have questions I cannot answer than answers I cannot question.
now i understand why two years ago a visiting c.o.asked me to clear the school library of all the older publications
Yup, its like a company who’s been caught defrauding its customers or the government. Destroy the evidence. Shred everything before the auditors come in…Its a good thing we have forums like this and others on the internet who expose the w.t. They have no problems exposing other religions but have a big problem when they are put under the microscope..
They now are getting a taste of their own medicine, payback is a……… Forgive my bad language…lol
They seem to forget everything they do or don’t is observed by Our heavenly Father in the end they are hold accountable, just like our own actions. Done in the dark is for Jehovah as done in bright daylight
Who really is the true anonymous? 😉 ha ha. Had to say it
I am :-))
The Real anonymous, I am not here to convince anyone, but for the purpose of reaching agreement concerning the truth of the matter under dispute. Lets dialogue further on these points you mention. I think you will agree that as christians we are interested in each others salvation, and if I am on the wrong help me find the truth. Not sure if you looked at the website truetheology dotnet , but you can see that these discussions require to go in detail, something we cant do on a blog. I invite you and everyone to read the 3 debates… Read more »
Before I finish what I am about to say, allow me first to commend you for being civil and polite, something not always present on dissenter forums. I appreciate that, and didn’t want to respond without making note of that. Having said that, my short answer to your offer is No. As for the debates on your website, I did read one, about the governing body issue. Personally, I found it wordy and tedious, like two lawyers arguing a case in court. (Did I mention, I hate lawyers?) It seemed like the two debaters were talking over each other’s heads,… Read more »
Hello Everyone, There is no need for any special interpretation when it comes to the absolute teachings of the scriptures, and we invite anyone and everyone to examine to see if we adequately present those absolute teachings. Naturally, JWs themselves have already done that and have come to trust that central authority to be that FDS. I think that’s the point many her seem to miss. JWs have already made the examination that several here speak of and have come to a decision as to who they trust. Really, the question should be along the lines of what happens when… Read more »
Hello Anonymous, It is not direction and wishes of the founders of Beroean Pickets for this to be a debate forum. However, I am disturbed to find so much of your presentation to be contrary to what I have learned in my own research, and I cannot let this go unanswered. I will respond to your points in the order you wrote them. Since your post is long, this reply necessarily is also; sorry for the length. — 1. “There is no need for any special interpretation when it comes to the absolute teachings of the scriptures, and we invite… Read more »
Anonymous- Not exactly sure what your point is but I must say this. You said: The FDS is at least SOMEONE who will be appointed in the “harvest period, by Christ the conclusion of the age, to give the proper food at the proper time. Since Christianity would be involved in the separating of the wheat and the weeds at this time, it would be imperative to have a centralized authority in regard to teachings.” Can you build a building without a foundation? Who is it that has explained to us who EXACTLY is the faithful and discreet slave? Isn’t… Read more »
Well just following sum of the threads by Anon, regarding the society doesn’t mind ones to do external research. Well in theory it’s all good. But the reality as a few have attested to is different and I’m sure you know that to be true also. I remember a few ago know at a District Convention, the talk dealt with the dangers of the Internet & our website was watchtower or something like that. They had a demo, were the brother was talking out loud as he was preparing for a talk, and he stumbled on a site called ”ewatchman”… Read more »
I just wanted to add something else to this research subject. True Apostasy is denying Christ. Why is it that I can read an article about evolution in National Geographic magazine in front of elders and it is OK? Why can I read Harper’s Bible Dictionary that casts doubt on the authenticity of much of the Bible? Why can I study in depth other religions? These things can truly lead us away from Christ into apostasy. But… I can’t study Watchtower history. I can’t read an ExJw’s site like this one where spiritual matters are appreciated. Does Christ approve of… Read more »
Nice Article Sopater, One thing Dealership sell new vehicles is always ‘the warranty’ some 5 years 6 years,..it’s a peace of mind thing. And the Organisation started out this way, in 1874 first 30 years prior were trial and error. Then new vehicle came on the market 1914-1919. then a great marketing campaign launched the new vehicle,…the Photo-Drama of Creation production of 1914 launched this vehicle to the world. Viewed by over 9 million people, it achieved its purpose. Now move forward to the time you learned the ‘truth’ the vehicle had recieved many modifications since its launch. For eg,… Read more »
Because you were “blindfolded” when you were in the Watchtower, at first when you leave, you think they are mostly right about most things. Usually what drives us out of the Watchtower, is deception of their history or other problems we observe. However, in very short time, you learn that the only truth they have doctrinally , can be summed up in three or four chapters in the Bible Teach book. That’s it! EVERYTHING else is nothing but the warped dreams of the governing body. How could we have had faith that Ezekiel’s chariot vision represents God’s heavenly organization? And… Read more »
I was just reading that watchtower again vince . They accuse others of being apostates and false teachers and then go and apply John 6:66-69 to the organisation instead of jesus christ .
Hello Sopater, Here is some information that might be beneficial to you and some of the readers here. It was not compiled by me, but I surely appreciate the points made. I thought it was very relevant within this discussion. If you don’t want it here, I imagine you have means available to delete it. Also,let me know where you want to start the dialogue either on the question of independent thinking or Errors and the Assistance of the holy spirit in the Congregation. Regards, *** Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education – How to do Research (pg 33-38) Before… Read more »
I just want to make a simple point. Yes, they say we can do other research. They say alot of things. But it is usually only half the story. So can we change how we feel about what is being taught by the “gaurdians of doctrine”? Can I research the Borean Pickets site and draw a different conclusion than they do, and begin teaching it as truth? If I want to research truth, am I allowed ro come to a site like this, which is not your typical “apostate” site? The clear answer is no. Yes, you can research anything… Read more »
When I used to go to the meetings, I knew that I daren’t just put up my hand and answer a point in the bible highlights if I hadn’t first checked what the WT had published on the point to make sure it was in line with WT published information. I have seen on another site that the Ministry School book (which Anonymous used above to show that the WT encourage research) and the Reasoning from the Scriptures book will no longer be available. The new midweek meeting format with scripted answer sheets for the elders is also discouraging any… Read more »
Oops, sorry my mistake – it was the 2011 yearbook and it is still on the WT library cd, under books.
Don’t worry OOA, at least you can admit your mistakes, unlike Watchtower. We all make mistakes, it’s part of what makes us human. 🙂
The yearbooks are available on the WT online library. Go to Books and Yearboks is at the top of the list. Your 2012 yearbook is there. ?
Anon, Perhaps you’ve missed my point. I am not suggesting the GB has a problem with outside research in general, for example secular topics such as history, science or medical. I am saying they would strongly discourage our researching religious doctrine (including in the original languages) outside of WT publications if the purpose of the research is to examine our own peculiar teachings. Please read the opening quote again. The claim is made that “truth is made clear in the publications of the faithful and discreet slave.” The inference is that truth is not made clear anywhere else. Since this… Read more »
In my case i have never joined up with the J W s but if they were not as large and pressing as they are, there would be no one to talk to on these topics in this English town of 70 thousand people. So wrong they are, this i have no doubt, but they are not as slack as the other churches. I am blessed by English and American heritage to walk between the churches. As in this day and age, the 1st world countries would rather waste money on murderous nuclear power stations than say Jesus is alive.… Read more »
Anonymous, It is true that the GB has no problem with us doing research using secular sources to reason with and overturn false doctrine, but the unwritten understanding is that there is no such thing as false doctrine stemming from the Governing Body. However, were you to take all this counsel and apply it to say, showing that the WT teaching of the other sheep is false, or that the teaching of 1914 is unscriptural, you would see very quickly that those rules no longer apply. When I began to question things, the elders pulled me into a meeting and… Read more »
Anonymous. Jesus already covered this at Matthew 23:3,4, in case you haven’t read it, this is what he said: ” So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.” (NIV) I know Watchtower likes to give the impression of encouraging research, free thought and free will, but the reality is the opposite, as demonstrated by their extensive… Read more »
Anon, I noticed that on the home page of your website (“I Believe”) it is curious that you do not subscribe to certain core beliefs of the FDS/GB? For example: 1. You believe the Logos was not a person, but is God’s spoken thoughts. 2. You believe that in Jesus dwelt the fullness of the Godhead bodily 3. You believe that being saved is being born again, of the Spirit 4. You believe that we will rule with Christ during the millennial rein (typo on your home page) 5. You believe that Satan and those who do not have their… Read more »
Anon, I noticed that on the home page of your website where you state your beliefs (“I Believe”). I find it curious that you do not agree with certain core beliefs of the FDS/GB? For example: 1. You believe the Logos was not a person, but is God’s spoken thoughts. 2. You believe that in Jesus dwelt the fullness of the Godhead bodily 3. That being saved is being born again, of the Spirit 4. That we will rule with Christ during the millennial rein (typo on your home page) 5. That Satan and those who do not have their… Read more »
Sopater, With all the respect , I don’t know what website your are looking at or where you are getting this information or drawing these conclusions, but is definitely not the one i cited. Assertions are easy. But assertions are not arguments. Anyone can assert anything. If assertions were sufficient to establish the truth of a claim, then I could simply assert that you are mistaken. If you’re not willing to engage in argumentation by quoting what you are referring to, but only wish to engage in mere assertion. I provided the email address and links for serious dialogue, not… Read more »
Anon,
I googled the letters of your website and this is the result:
http://www.trutheology.net/
After your comment above, I have looked very closely and the site I was directed to on google has a name nearly identical to yours. My apologies, call it an honest mistake.
I didn’t catch this because the person’s belief’s are not that far away from JW.
What a strange coincidence.
Anyway, please pardon my error.
Sopater
There are just so many issues with the WT claim of being the FDS, is difficult to know where to start. (Or, in my case, where to stop; apologies in advance for the length of what follows …) Even if we accepted that Matthew 24:45-47 is a prophesy, and in fact meant that God through Christ was going to appoint someone, where does this verse require exclusivity? What is notable about this passage is that it’s written in the singular, to ONE slave, and that HIS master would appoint HIM to more responsibilities if HE did well with HIS initial… Read more »
The Real Anonymous, You bring up many points that should be dialogued in more detail . What do you say if we start the dialogue? Here are some debates related to your questions, let me know where you want to start. Examining the JW teaching of the Faithful and Discreet Slave: http://www.truetheology.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=48&t=829 1st Century Governing Body?*** & WT interpretation of faithful slave: http://www.truetheology.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=40&sid=6d55ee58da9b02e98f635d0dd42d01f4 Membership to the Truetheology website is only granted if one is interested in engaging in discussion or debate of one of the articles posted in the “ARTICLES FOR THE PROMOTION OF BIBLICAL TRUTH” section of the board… Read more »
I think perhaps you misunderstand me. The points I brought out about the GB are not really questions, they are statements of fact. For instance, people idolized Russell, his wife promoted the idea that he was the faithful steward, and he did nothing to disavow that idea. The Bible Students were following a man, even if they would not admit it. These things are well known and documented. What is there to “dialog” about? Perhaps it is you that wish to dialog. If so, perhaps you could state your specific interest and why you want to debate this, one way… Read more »
Thanks Sopater, great article. To further underline your point, I wonder if you are familiar with this little gem from the March 1st 1981 Watchtower, page 24, under the heading “Who really is the faithful and discreet slave?” “Witnesses of Jehovah understand that the “slave” is comprised of all anointed Christians as a group on earth at any given time during the 19 centuries since Pentecost. Accordingly, the “domestics” are these followers of Christ as individuals. Some readers may feel that this is a rather sectarian view of matters. Or they may object to the idea that the “slave” and… Read more »
Further on your point: “It won’t surprise me if the archive database in the WT CD Library becomes unavailable. Then all that will remain for the rank and file will be the online library, which is essentially sterile material from recent publications only which the Governing Body approves for consumption.” Starting with WT Library 2015, the WT Library will be updated online which will make it easier for the WT to erase old light and embarrassing mistakes. For example, the 2015 January Awake print edition page 3 differs already from the online, downloadable version. A quote by Rama Singh was… Read more »
OoA,
Agree, the digital age will make it very convenient for them adjust the publications to contain the latest version of light. It isn’t transparent. I think it will only serve to tangle the spiders web even more. What if a brother references original hard copy in his hour talk? He could be guilty of teaching something apostate. How does the elder react when he’s told the hard copy is “old light?”
WT used to explain discrepancies between the Bible and secular history by saying that nations were proud and would only record their victories but not their defeats. There is a saying that history is writen by the victors. I find it ironic that WT would itself fail to lean from this, but instead seems to be rewriting history, themselves applying the same tactics and motives that they criticize the nations for doing.
I really loved this article, thank you! I wasn’t raised as a JW, but joined once I got married at 32. In the beginning it all seemed wholesome and welcoming, not like the rumors I heard while growing up. The good feelings I had quickly (5 years later once I had children) turned to guilt and shame, as the performance based spiritual “routines”, were designed to always remind me of that I’m not good enough, I SHOULD always do and be better. Then when the GB started talking about themselves more and eventually gave them selves the title of FDS,… Read more »
Your welcome InyAnders.
When Jeffrey Jackson was question by Senior Counsel Stewart during the Royal Commission as to whether the Governing Body was the sole channel or spokes person for God on earth, Jeffrey Jackson response was that would be a presumptuous claim to make. So if Brother Jackson could not boldly make the claim in public and yet that claim is made boldly made in the WT, Than Witnesses should very much take note of Brother Jackson comment and question as to why he could not boldly proclaim that statement in public if it is indeed true. Also if a JW had… Read more »
I think that Geoffrey said it would seem to be presumptuous. He probably meant it might seem that way to worldly people, who do not have the JW view of things. But he did not say it was presumptuous. Slight technical difference which he may or may not have been aware of when saying it.
Fact of the matter is Geoffrey Jackson’s performance was available for all to see and I saw the a very presumptuous man lacking in conviction and not very convincing as a person claiming to be a spokesman for God on earth !
I must confess that I find your comments somewhat “distressing” and uncomfortable – I cant put a finger on it – my apologies – but that’s how it comes across to me.
Anon, I think it would be presumptuous if we were to try to add anything or any special meaning to Bro Jackson’s comment. It was a very simple question that should be very easy for him to reply to. I personally feel his hesitation and saying it would seem presumptuous demonstrated that when under oath, he is uncomfortable making the claim the GB are God’s only spokespersons. His testimony is being heard by a little more than a thousand every day (nearly 132,000 views and counting). 20% of the votes are thumbs down, but 80% give it a thumbs up.… Read more »
Don’t think for a minute I am defending him. I am just stating what he actually said. Which was “I think it would SEEM to be presumptuous”. Correct me if I am wrong. People can wriggle out of things and give themselves an escape route. So he can say with all honesty “I did not say it would be presumptous”.
The difficulty Mr. jackson finds himself in can be summed up in one question:
If you, sir, as a member of the GB, do not yourself believe that you are the sole channel of communication between God and mankind, why should anyone else believe you?
It is hard to overstate the significance of Geoffrey Jackson’s statement, or the damage it has done to the WT organization and its credibility. What is more, if you recall, recently, Garrett Losch made a statement regarding the child abuse trial of Jose Lopez vs. Gonzalo Compos. As the most senior member of the GB, the court wanted Losch to testify regarding policies and procedures of WT regarding child abuse. He and WT refused to testify, and WT received a summary judgment of 13 million dollars against them, primarily for refusing to cooperate with what the court viewed as a… Read more »