[From ws17/9 p. 28 –November 20-26]
“Be courageous and strong and go to work. Do not be afraid or be terrified, for Jehovah . . . is with you.”—1 Ch 28:20
[audio mp3="http://beroeans.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ws1709-p.-28-Be-Courageous-and-Go-to-Work.mp3"][/audio]
(Occurrences: Jehovah=27; Jesus=3)
This article is supposedly about being courageous. The theme text doesn't come from the Christian Scriptures, but from the time of Israel, specifically the building of the first temple.
Like Solomon, we need help from Jehovah to be courageous and complete the work. To that end, we can reflect on some past examples of courage. And we can think about how we can show courage and get our work accomplished. – par. 5
Nevertheless, courage is required for our salvation as Christians, something we can see in reading Revelation 21:8:
“But as for the cowards and those without faith...their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This means the second death.”” (Re 21:8)
Cowardliness results in death, but bravery or courage is one of the qualities that brings life.
Given that, what is the work the article is referencing as corresponding to Solomon's temple-building work, and how does this relate to the other examples of courage cited from paragraph 5 thru to 9?
Joseph, Rahab, Jesus, and the apostles displayed an inner strength that motivated them to perform good works. Their courage was not overconfidence. It came from reliance on Jehovah. We too face circumstances that require courage. Rather than rely on ourselves, we must rely on Jehovah. (Read 2 Timothy 1:7.) – par. 9
The article is going to focus on "two areas of life where we need courage: in our family and in the congregation.” - par. 9
Situations Requiring Courage
"Christian youths face many situations in which they need to show courage to serve Jehovah....The wise decisions they make about good associations, wholesome entertainment, moral cleanness, and baptism all call for courage." par. 10
Decisions about who to associate with and what movies to watch call for courage? It takes courage to not engage in sexual immorality? What's the point of this?
Loyal love to both Jehovah and our neighbor is involved in making these choices. The other fruits of the spirit come into play as well. For example, self-control, goodness and kindness, to varying degrees. It is hard to see what role courage plays in deciding what movie to watch, or whether to get baptized. Are young people in the organization experiencing strong pressure not to get baptized, perhaps from school mates or members of the congregation?
Whatever the case, it seems the real purpose behind this reasoning is to suggest that it takes courage to avoid higher education. The Bible says nothing about avoiding high education, but this is a drum that the organization beats on a regular basis, and it is beating it yet again here. Thus, when paragraph 11 starts out by saying, "one important decision young ones must make involves their goals", we are to understand that setting a goal takes courage. What goals take courage? Paragraph 11 continues: "In some lands, young ones are pressured to set goals that center on higher education and a well-paying job. In other lands, economic conditions may make young ones feel that they must focus on helping to provide materially for their families. If you find yourself in either situation, consider the example of Moses. Raised by the daughter of Pharaoh, Moses could have set his goals on attaining prominence or economic security. What pressure he must have felt to do so from his Egyptian family, teachers, and counselors! Rather than give in, Moses courageously took a stand for pure worship."
So those who do not pursue higher education are like Moses? This comparison is absurd. Moses was raised and educated in the wealthiest family in the nation. At forty years of age, long after he'd already received his "higher education", he decided to free the Israelites on his own. Admittedly, that took courage, but it didn't turn out well. He ended up murdering an Egyptian and he had to flee for his life.
What similarity is there in that account with one of Jehovah's Witnesses deciding whether to seek education after high school? It seems that whatever Christian quality there is—love, loyalty, faith, joy, or courage—the Governing Body can find some way, however tenuous, to apply it to avoiding the scourge of higher education.
Paragraph 12 states: "Jehovah will bless young ones who courageously work at setting spiritual goals..." Depicted below are two sisters who have supposedly foregone getting an education so that they can work in maintaining and building properties for the Organization. Where in the Bible are Christians told to set spiritual goals that involved construction projects?
In paragraph 13, the black-and-white approach to service to God is again promoted:
“Satan’s world promotes higher education, fame, money, and having a lot of material things as good goals." - par. 13
So all higher education is from Satan?
The vast majority of people who seek higher education just want to live a decent life, free from poverty. They want to provide for a family. They often do this at some risk, because there is no certainty about getting a job, despite the cost of tuition. Others decide to forego the education and devote themselves fully to God. This is not a requirement that Jehovah imposes, however. It's a personal choice, or at least it should be.
Let's put the whole pioneer thing aside, because there is nothing in the Bible about pioneering. (If we were Catholics, we'd be talking about becoming a nun or a priest or a missionary.) The fact is, it's a personal choice and everyone's circumstances and personality make-up are different. We're not all cookie-cutter copies of each other, so we should be allowed to make our own decisions free from outside pressure.
You want to speak about courage? How about the courage needed to stand up to the Organization and the peer pressure of an indoctrinated congregation and go out and seek higher education because your conscience tells you it is the right thing to do, when everyone is pushing you not to? That takes real courage, especially when doing so means that your Father will likely lose his privileges in the congregation. On the other hand, bending to the will of the crowd out of fear is cowardly.
We show courage when we help our children to set and reach spiritual goals. For instance, some parents may hesitate to encourage their child to pursue a career of pioneering, to serve where the need is greater, to enter Bethel service, or to work on theocratic construction projects. The parents may fear that their child will not be able to care for them when they are old. However, wise parents show courage and put faith in Jehovah’s promises. - par. 15
That first sentence should read: "We show courage when we help our children to set and reach spiritual goals as defined by the Organization."
Hmm.... Would this reasoning work if you heard it coming from, say, a Catholic? As a Jehovah's Witness, you'd say, "Definitely not!".
"And why not, pray tell."
You'd answer, "Because they don't practice the true religion, so Jehovah will not provide for them."
It is true that our Father has promised to provide for his children, but he makes no promise to provide for us just because we are members in some religious organization, be it Catholic or Jehovah's Witnesses. Nevertheless, this is how Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to think. I know, because I used to think like this.
The proof of the pudding, as they say, is in the tasting. God says, "Taste and see that Jehovah is good..." (Ps 34:8) But that only applies if what we are doing is really for God. It only applies if we love and teach truth, and love and practice His law.
I have firsthand knowledge of men and women who adopted the goals that the Organization said were spiritual and approved by God. Perhaps one case in particular might help us reason—it is hardly unique.
There was a family with two daughters and one son. The father was a non-Witness; what we'd call an unbeliever. The mother died many years ago. The children were all witnesses, but one daughter was what we'd refer to as a "weak Witness". She ended up being a single mom with a down-syndrome child. Eventually, the father of the family gets old and needs to be cared for. The son can't do it. He has his career as a circuit overseer. The other daughter can't help. She's married and working in a foreign Bethel. It all falls on the one who, if we are going to follow the logic of this article, wasn't courageous and didn't put Jehovah first. She is, however, the only one obeying 1 Timothy 5:8. Years go by. The circuit overseer becomes a district overseer. The other daughter's husband gets promoted to the position of branch committee member. They both courageously made the right choice, according to the article. Neither volunteers to come home to care for dear, old Dad, even though the "spiritually weak" daughter asks them for help, because she is overburdened with caring for her ailing father and mentally challenged daughter. Eventually, she suffers a nervous and physical breakdown. No longer able to care for her daughter, the girl goes into a state facility where she dies an accidental death. Soon thereafter the father dies as well. The "weak daughter" bears all this tragedy alone while her siblings courageously pursue their "spiritual goals". The other sister continues to serve in the foreign Bethel, though that could change at any time as more branches are closed. The brother gets sent out to pasture when the district overseers are dismissed. He, now in his 70s, lives in penury as a special pioneer.
That these are not isolated events, but represent the reality of pursuing "spiritual goals" as set by this Organization, we have only to look at recent history.
In the 2010 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses on page 31 we are told that worldwide staff at branch facilities numbered 19,829. This grew by 25% over the next six years to number 26,011 in 2016 (yb 16, p. 176). However, in the great downsizing that came the very next year, staff dropped by 25% back down to 2010 levels: 19,818 (yb 17, p. 177) Now, following the rules common in industry when downsizing is needed to handle cash shortfalls, one might assume that they let go of the people with the lowest seniority. That has not proven to be the case. Often, longtime Bethelites with 20, 25 and even 30 years of faithful service were sent packing while younger ones remained. Additionally, many thousands of special pioneers were dropped, even ones who were longtime servants.
Does this fit with the picture painted by paragraph 15?
Why didn't Jehovah provide for these ones by keeping the money coming in? Why didn't He arrange for the younger ones to return to the field leaving the older, more vulnerable ones safely in place? Why did He so poorly manage staff hiring by swelling the ranks 25% in only six years when the growth during that time was minimal? Why isn't He providing for them now that they're old, on their own, and struggling to get gainful employment in a world where an old person with no higher education can't get much more than a job as a Walmart greeter?
Or could it be that Jehovah had nothing to do with all this?
Courage in the Congregation
The examples given in paragraph 17 about the need for courage are pedestrian. An older sister needs courage to follow instruction from the elders to talk with a younger sister about her manner of dress and grooming? Please! (Now we're beating the "dress and grooming" drum yet again.) Single sisters need courage to apply for the School for Kingdom Evangelizers, or to work in the Local Design/Construction program? Really??
Oh and then there's, "elders need courage when caring for judicial matters".
Now this is one we can sink our teeth into. Elders do need courage in caring for judicial matters and also when making decisions that affect the welfare of the congregation. Why? Because it takes courage to stand up for what is right when everyone else wants to do something stupid, or harmful. Having served as an elder for forty years in three countries and numerous congregations, I can say with certainty that courage is a rare commodity in elder bodies. Going with the will of the majority is the norm. It is, in fact, actively encouraged. When the circuit overseer wants to do something and one or two elders think it's a dumb idea and courageously speak up, they were invariably pressured to give in "for the sake of unity". If they stand their ground on principle, they are branded as trouble makers. In forty years, I saw this time and again. Most were more concerned with holding onto their "privileges" than with doing the courageous thing.
Do you know what else takes courage? Making a comment at the Watchtower study that corrects some teaching of the Organization. I recall the first time I did this, my heart was in my throat. Following the direction of the Organization doesn’t take courage. You’re going with the flow. Everyone wants you to do this. They’ll encourage and praise you for it. By contrast, Jesus said:
“Everyone, then, that confesses union with me before men, I will also confess union with him before my Father who is in the heavens; 33 but whoever disowns me before men, I will also disown him before my Father who is in the heavens.” (Mt 10:32, 33)
It’s not an easy thing to confess union with Jesus before the men of the Organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In fact, it’s likely going to be one of the biggest challenges of your life. But doing that will gain you Christ’s favor and with that comes everlasting life.
Archived Comments
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Comment by Pekanman on 2017-11-19 13:34:14
Thank you once again for a fine article. My problem going forward will be how do I not work some of this into comments during the WT study? Sitting quiet and not saying anything seems a cowards way. I think 1 Thessalonians 2:2 will have to be my scripture to meditate on before the meeting so I can speak up with boldness.
Reply by Devora on 2017-11-19 16:55:09
Wonderful review Meliti (on a sore subject)...Pekanman,for You,may 1st Thess.2:3,4 from Jah and Christ assure you...& Warp S,yes these WT articles bring out our own,painful,personal injustices we've suffered in WT-land..I cannot descibe the relief by reading everyone's sharings, knowing others have likewise suffered/are so now..yet how gratefully strong we are,by Christ's power,2nd Cor.12:9,10.
Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-19 18:28:15
Thanks for the encouragement Devora?
Reply by THE DRIFTER on 2017-11-19 19:36:44
Hello Pekanman, ...
In my opinion, when you make contrary statements during the meeting you do so at your own peril! Why not carefully weave, and I do mean carefully, what you really want to say before or after the meeting?
Pick on the Servants and Pioneers so as not to be accused of attacking the weak and besides, if you get there 20 minutes early and leave 20 minutes after you have 40+ minutes of commenting as opposed to a brief, lump in your throat, 30 second comment that will never do justice to your thought.
Way more productive and albeit, ...fun!
Take it from me...
By the way, ...pleased to make your aquaintance!Reply by Pekanman on 2017-11-20 06:13:44
Oh I will be careful, and will take your advice about before and after meetings, but still will work some points into comments during as well. Sometimes we have to follow what we know is right as Jas 4:17 says. Well seasoned words at the right time as you mentioned might be more productive, but if it makes people think that's sometimes all we can do. But we can be cautious as serpents as Mathew told us to be. Thank you
Reply by THE DRIFTER on 2017-11-20 21:07:47
When they take you back to the little room, and they will, tell them you believe it all.
That even though it doesn’t make sence, that you can’t find scriptural support for many of the teachings and you don’t understand it, ...that you still believe it!
Every word!
One elder said to me that he didn’t believe me, that I was just carrying on a charade.
I told him he was welcome to believe anything he wished and that there was a lot of that going around.
Reply by huang on 2017-11-23 09:10:54
Hi Pekanman, this line from par 17 is Godsent - "For instance, elders need courage when caring for judicial matters". I aim to weaponised thus:
"Elders on a judicial committee need courage when handling disfellowship cases. They may grapple with decision of whether or not to disfellowship. And if the committee is unable to reach a unanimous conclusion, the minority will give support to the decision reached by the majority."
This should raise some eyebrows or enrage some elders but will at least set some minds thinking. I do not know where the courage comes in but it's for them to figure out.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2017-11-23 10:45:48
Juan, do let us know that the reaction is if you get to make the comment. I agree. Elders are "required" to vote unanimously, not to take a courageous stand when they are the dissenting opinion.
Reply by huang on 2017-11-24 20:13:20
Sure, Meleti, I am putting finishing touches to my comment to get it just right. Maybe add line about elders not able to read hearts only Jesus can. There will likely be the question of how I know about the workings of the JC when I am not an elder? Better not let on it came from "Shepherd the Flock" book...
Reply by huang on 2017-11-26 10:06:22
What happened at the KH was an anti-climax; no fireworks but an ominous message. Elder Suspicious commented before I did. He said,” ....elders need to investigate, judge the person to see that there will be no contamination in the congregation”. I think he was referring to me
Still there was a positive remark from w study conductor who agreed with my comment saying “ … yes, certainly takes courage to take a stand on Jehovah’s side.” There was no rebuttal from Elder Suspicious but I think he is smouldering inside of him; on the warpath and ready to defend the congregation from “contamination” from bros like me. Well, I say - on to the next battle!
Reply by huang on 2017-11-20 09:18:01
Hi Drifter
I used to have the "lump in throat"problem then I hit on a simple way to get my comments out smoothly - print out bullet-point format on a small slip of paper and basically read off it. Works like a dream; points too important to get lost in your jugular!Reply by THE DRIFTER on 2017-11-20 20:53:18
Hello back Juan!
Thanks for the tip,
Reply by Leonardo Josephus on 2017-11-22 04:06:58
Hi Drifter. Exactly the right way. We are not at meetings to stumble those who cannot take it, whose trust is totally in the F & Ds. Personally, I find it is selective elders with whom I can throw in the odd observation after the meeting.
I agree it is very dangerous to make contrary statements during the meeting, but it not impossible if you plan them well (and pray about them too), to make comments that highlight truth.Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2017-11-22 08:32:56
Good point, Leonardo. We don't want to send people into the arms of the atheists. Sadly, it seems that most of those who leave the organization go off into the world of disbelief. We want our words to build up, so we don't want to simply turn them away from falsehood, but toward the Christ. If that is our motivation, then we should do well.
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-22 19:08:03
Yes Leonardo and Meleti,
The idea of "converting" people, Ime starting to realise , is not the way to go.
If you take a good look at Jesus parable on the fine soil, the actions he encourages is to distribute seed of truth, it's then up to the Holy Spirit to work on a persons heart and mind , this gets back to the idea again that understanding is something that's granted, not your skill with words and scriptures, or skillfull counter arguments , this does lead to the very problem that Paul counselled against 1Tim 2:8&6:4.
So I suppose the trick is if you are still "in" is not burn your bridges unless it is imperative to do so, again Jesus counsel cautious as serpents , innocent as doves, be a valley that draws things in rather than a mountain that draws attention to itself.
I had the opportunity last Sunday, I sat with a sister in the outside hall and got to talk with her, she said that she was depressed because she had to spend more time driving in heavy traffic to get her ailing mother , who has been diagnosed wth cancer, back and forth from specialists appointments. The driving she said was bringing out attitude and behaviours that she felt were no longer part of her personality, only to find they were still there, I really felt for this dear sister, so I read to her Mat11:28&29 , she said I don't know if I can do that, so I read her Heb 1:1-3, she said doesn't Jesus speak through the faithful slave? I asked her , does the faithful slave know what your going through when you drive in heavy traffic? Her reply was no, I said , but Jesus does , go to him about it, the look of relief on her face was touching, she then said Ime going to read over those verses again at home, I suggested that was a great idea, and , look at all the cross references to those verses as well, she said that will be a great little study , I couldnt do anything but agree. I just wonder where this will go ?Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2017-11-22 19:33:48
Great application of Heb 1:1-3, Wild Olive. I hope my failing memory will grab hold of that one should I need to use it myself.
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-22 20:47:23
It is a particular favourite of mine because it says exactly who is doing the talking.
Reply by Devora on 2017-11-23 07:22:49
Thank you Wild Olive..great points to take!going to try that with a couple of still-in very depressed friends..Love them as Christ does..simple.
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-23 16:25:23
Thanks Devora and my pleasure to pass an idea.
Actually it's something that is on my mind constantly, how to reach others hearts without destroying their faith?
The work that Meleti and Tadua , and others that have done showing wrong teachings of the GB, while I feel it's nessessary to have these critiques to help people deprogram , and to get their thinking faculties outside GB dogma and control, Ime finding the need to do something in a positive way, I mean what is the point of knowing what's wrong and right and then not doing something about it? Some have by leaving , and I respect that choice, but for those of us , who for what ever reason haven't left, need a ministry inside , and this , in my opinion , requires that we start talking about what we can do , what situations we have faced , and how we have succeeded, how we have been able to bear witness to Christ, not just fault finding but using knowledge.Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-24 08:35:37
Agreed WO. Speaking for myself, I am self-aware that I need to start doing more positive things for the Christ. Like you said, it's one thing to expose false teachings, quite another to point people in the right direction......
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-24 17:37:46
Yes WS and not cause destruction in the process, I now realise how entitled I was with my "field service" when I was active, I didn't really care what I said to people because "I had the truth" . Now Ime embarrassed how unchristian I really was , and because the boots on the other foot , I have to think before I speak.
Reply by mailman on 2017-11-25 05:13:19
Hi Bro. Warp... and that right direction is none other than the only Way, the Truth and the Life - Jesus Christ our Lord.
Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-25 10:22:52
Yes Mailman. Hence why I said "doing more positive things for the Christ".
Reply by Smoldering Wick on 2017-11-26 01:17:48
Precisely, wildolive! Always think of Jesus cautionary words of Mt10:16! “Look! I am sending you out as sheep among wolves; so prove yourselves cautious as serpents and yet innocent as doves." After all, he was sending his disciples to fellow believers!
Comment by wish4truth2 on 2017-11-19 16:23:53
Thank you for a great article! The Wt continues to misapply scripture and rehash articles to promote the Organisation above Christ. I do not attend meetings anymore, but have been looking for ways to reach the Brothers and Sisters. I was able to approach a Brother and Sister on a Witnessing Stand last Friday, set up at a market. During the conversation, I respectfully expounded a number of things the Organisation is teaching that is not scriptural and mentioned the ARC, Jeffery Jackson's testimony. Although the sister seemed agitated,the Brother humbly listened.Before I left,I encouraged them both to research the history of the Organisation.
Comment by Warp Speed on 2017-11-19 16:38:39
Thank you for such a realistic, spot-on review once again Meleti!
This matter of "higher education" really chaps my hide. My wife did very well in high school and had two different scholarships awarded to her. One was for a full 4 year ride at a major University. The other was a 2 year trade school.
Her parents were being "loyal to Jehovah" and put the kabash on both opportunities. Fast forward 35 years. Now in our mid-fifties, struggling to make ends meet. Meanwhile, some prominent Elders are invited to Bethel projects because they in fact have the very college certificates that are now desired by the Org (mechanical , electrical, and engineering degrees) because it now fits their need to complete the Warwick Resort.
To call this hypocritical is a major understatement! But yet, they still beat their drums on this issue to this day. It seems that if something fits the Org's agenda, then the end justifies the means.
Sorry for the rant......Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2017-11-19 17:55:07
Rant on, Warp Speed. Rant on! :)
Comment by wild olive on 2017-11-19 17:01:30
Thanks Meleti for that fine expose'.
The experience you mentioned of the aged father and his needs is as you say not unique, I personally am watching one play out now that is very similar to your anecdote.
I can't help but think how similar this kind of thing is to the situation that Jesus mentioned in Mark 7:11-13, here he took the Pharisees to task because they had people declaring their wealth , assets etc as "Corban " or something dedicated to the temple, and thus been relieved of any responsibility of caring for aged parents, in the JW world the appointed positions and what they fulfill becomes "Corban" , virtually untouchable, even where there is a need to surrender them, or, as I have also witnessed, if these "privledges" have to be surrendered, it's viewed almost as a backward step in spiritual living, such is the indoctrination that's handed out in the name of "kingdom interests", and I'm sure that is what this study article is trying to engender in the young. And also to guilt the older into not asking for their needs to be met.Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-19 18:57:33
Nice observation WO.
If grown children take care of their aging parents, the Org won't get their money and full allegiance. Can't have that......
Comment by MarthaMartha on 2017-11-19 17:57:09
I'll join with everyone else to say Well Done! Meleti , hear hear!
Your righteous indignance shines through and resonates with all of us who see the hypocrisy.
Thank you for putting in writing what we feel along with you. Like Devora said, it's such a relief to realise that we're not alone.Reply by Devora on 2017-11-19 19:37:26
Hello Martha!Do you know I've been concerned for you..wondering'where is she,with her spot-on no-nonsense comments that make me smile'(to borrow a slightly archaic phrase),"Right on",Sister!
Reply by MarthaMartha on 2017-11-20 05:33:48
Hello Devora! You're very kind, thanks for your lovely comment.
I'm always here reading, but I haven't been well recently ( aches and pains of the old age I was promised would never come) so haven't felt as ' spot on no nonsense' as I need to,to comment! I'm feeling much better now.
Actually This subject of education is a sore one with me so I could have a proper rant. ??
It looks as though we all feel the same way though so I'll just say "Right On! " with you.
Xx thanks
Comment by Hypatia on 2017-11-19 18:51:47
Thank you for a good review. As someone who works and teaches in higher education, it is really uncomfortable when the education bashing starts in the WT.
Higher education also teaches critical thinking. The more I look into checking facts, the more I become very uncomfortable with anything the org. publishes. They engage in practices that would either end up failing students, or getting them in trouble for academic dishonesty. I have reached the point where I don't trust what they write anymore.Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-19 23:40:45
Hello Hypatia
Aren't you glad that as a teacher you can see what's wrong?
Or maybe more accurately, aren't you glad you can see how the org mixes a bit of fact and fiction together, sort of like how governments do when they are at war, the clever art of disinformation, just enough that sounds true along with some that is true .
Ime glad to hear that you are involved in higher education, I myself was very keen on electronics when I was in my teens , I was thinking along the lines of a career in that, but everyone around me insisted I get a trade, because Armageddon was just around the corner,so I became a cabinet maker instead, now 40 years later I can only guess what might have been.
Reply by Smoldering Wick on 2017-11-26 01:33:52
It took critical thinking to get me into this organization and now it threatens my expulsion. How many signed up for that?
Comment by Phelps on 2017-11-20 00:43:08
Hola queridos hermanos...Cuando hablas de educación superior muerdo mis labios de ira. Siempre fui lo que se podría llamar un testigo ejemplar, con mis cometarios "acertados", mis discursos directos y llenos de juicios hacia los que no cumplían las "perfectas normas de la organización";quise siempre haber estudiado una carrera para mantener y ayudar a mi familia pero siempre pudo más la influencia de la "organización". Hoy,después de perder a mi esposa por mis constantes problemas económicos y vivir sin mi hijo sólo me pregunto cómo pude dejar que controlarán mi vida de ésta manera. Odio haber perdido tanto tiempo en una organización que me mintió y defraudó y aun sigue haciéndolo con tanta gente buena dentro de ella...Me consuela tus comentarios de todos ustedes Muchas gracias
Comment by Phelps on 2017-11-20 00:44:04
Hello dear brothers ... When you speak of higher education, I grind my teeth in anger. I was always what you'd call an exemplary Witness with my "right" comments, my direct speeches, full of judgments towards those who did not comply with the "perfect norms of the organization". I always wanted to take up a career to provide for my family but there was always the influence of the organization. Today, after losing my wife due to my constant economic problems and living without my son, I only wonder how I could have lived my life in this way. I hate it that I have lost so much time in an organization that lied to me and disappointed me, and continues to do the same to so many good people who are still part of it. I am comforted by the comments from all of you. Thank you very much
Comment by Leonardo Josephus on 2017-11-20 08:07:22
Meliti, excellent article as is evidenced also by all the comments already. If it sounds a bit like a rant, that is fine.
Let me relate an experience when I was on the BOE, not so very long ago. We reinstated a sister who had not been very long disfellowshipped, but there was no question of whether she was repentant. Nevertheless we got a letter back from the branch querying why we had reinstated her so soon. I just pointed to what Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians, which was written only a few months after 1 Corinthians, where the congregation was strongly encouraged to welcome the repentant sinner back, less he be swallowed up in his being overly sad. We heard nothing back in reply.
As you also add, it takes courage to comment on a misleading Watchtower teaching. It does indeed, and whatever you say has to be absolutely correct, as well as tactfully put. The midweek meeting this week contains one of those mis-translations that really annoy (Micah 6:8), but for once the writers seem have dug a bit of hole for themselves quoting a 2012 reference which does not comment on the "new" wording (loyalty) in the 2013 Bible, but rather explains the old wording (kindness). I expect Tadua will have picked this up. I shall hope for courage to comment!Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2017-11-20 09:17:11
I know that other branches have done the same, which to me indicates a written policy. They are being told to ensure that the elders don't undermine the penal nature of the disfellowshipping process as this is the key weapon for maintaining control over the flock. Fear, rather than love, is their tool for keeping everyone in line.
Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-20 21:34:50
Anything under one year always got a response from the U.S. Branch.
Another one of those "oral traditions" from the Org.
Just like recommending a brother to serve. Anything under 10 hours a month of field service time will not fly....
Comment by Joseph Anton on 2017-11-20 11:18:46
Selective presentism concerning biblical figures is a problem in the Org. As they obviously did here with Moses. Last weekend's Circuit Convention we had the examples of Jephthah's daughter - with no mention that his original oath involved sacrificing whoever or whatever came out to meet him in fire - and for some odd reason, Joab's dressing down of King David as being loyal to Absalom over loyalty to his military commanders was used as a good example of being loyal to the organization when it comes to unbelieving family members - with no mention that Joab was complicit in the murder of Uriah. Things have gotten so binary in the teachings of the Org that they've removed all nuance and flavor from the scriptures. God allowed the stories of the ancient Israelites to be told with absolute candor so that imperfect men (as we all are) could easily identify with their follies as well as their successes. The Org isn't just content in whitewashing its own history, it's whitewashing biblical history as well to suit its needs today.
Comment by Joseph Anton on 2017-11-20 11:45:02
This sentence is particularly disgusting: "The parents may fear that their child will not be able to care for them when they are old. However, wise parents show courage and put faith in Jehovah’s promises." You child will end up taking care of the elderly - whether you when you get old or the elderly in power back in Warwick. Seems extremely self-serving for the GB in Warwick to declare the services of your offspring as theirs - if you'd like to be blessed by Jehovah.
Reply by Joseph Anton on 2017-11-20 13:45:38
Children are basically instructed to NOT worry about supporting their families. And instead enter some weird lottery where they may win a chance to go back to Patterson or Warwick. And how realistic are the goals set in this article? Can every kid who wants to go back to Warwick? Or just a tiny minority? So why encourage them all to make this same goal? It's statistically disingenuous.
Reply by if ever on 2017-11-25 10:51:07
Joseph Anton, I also noted this sentence. It brings to mind Jesus condemnation to the Pharisees in Mark 7:11 &12. By what means (higher education) a person may have material, physical and financial capability (support) that parents can receive is reduced or removed by a doctrine. As Meleti mentioned in the article there is nothing in the Bible against higher education.
Reply by lost in space on 2017-11-26 00:20:00
Welcome "if ever" to our fine friends among the Bereaons Christians. Sometimes an article just compels a first comment...intro my husband! This was a lovely surprise?
Comment by Tadua on 2017-11-20 13:39:59
A brother told me this story. He has three sons. Two went to university in defiance of the org, and one did a course to learn a trade. When the Bethel construction came up, they all applied. One a qualified civil engineer was told by an elder they didn’t do work at weekends so there was no need for his application. The other who was still at university was told they didn’t do work during the week as he wanted to help during the week and spend his weekends with his family. The one who learnt a trade was told they didn’t need university graduates despite him not going to university and specifically requesting the skills he has. Needless to say none of them were asked to go. They later found out this service committee member had not even shown their applications to the other members of the service committee. The organisation is full of hypocrisy. The elder knew if he put their applications forward they would be invited immediately and most probably didn’t want them to be seen as benefitting from their education.
Reply by Joseph Anton on 2017-11-20 13:57:36
This is also part of the only charity work Witnesses are allowed to entertain participating in. All sanctioned, considered, and signed off by upper management.
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-20 21:01:41
So true JA, what astounds me is how the rank and file are practically addicted to doing this "charity work".
I have relatives who are called " special skills servants" they are flat out with "charity " work , used to go fishing with them , but now they are so busy they haven't got moment to spare, and they love it ?Reply by Filius90 on 2017-11-20 21:40:41
An “exemplary publisher” can not only volunteer but also be directly asked or summoned to spend many hours contributing time, resources, and energy on almost every project they need help on. But guess what if you’re not a pioneer you barley get a pat on the back. You can’t count not one bit of time for it unless you’re a pioneer.
As a matter of fact your local elders may even be a little peeved that you haven’t been around even when they know exactly what it is you’re doing. The Branch has instructed that volunteers write their total hours of volunteering for the month on the back of a time card so in the event a Circuit Overseer questions why you’re not a super hero at least he can see why.
It still means nothing. It’s never good enough no matter how many times you’re told, “Jehovah sees what your doing is what really counts.” If that’s the case why is the line “You need to be more visible” so over used?
When it came to the world we were taught to use the JW/Watchtower formula to rationalize and explain our way out of any situation we needed to. What’s crazy is when you see and feel it happening to you in house, from people who act like you don’t know the difference.
Comment by eve04 on 2017-11-22 14:28:04
I think the Organization does such a disservice by their insistence on No higher education rule. Knowing what I know, any young person I talk to, I tell them you better get some form of Education. Almost all position nowadays requires a degree. Even though I do not have a degree, believing the end was coming and listening to don’t go to college, I work with very educated people. They are planning for retirements, something I can’t do. There was a day you could work for a company for life, that is no longer true. A survey years ago said, “most people will have 3 careers in the lifetime”.
They have lived at Bethel for so long I don’t think they have a real clue of how it is out here. I see people that work as housekeepers and in foodservice that being their 1st job and then leaving to go to a second job. It is very difficult to find a job that will sustain you above the poverty level without a degree.Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-22 20:42:19
Hi eve04
You make a very valid point on the matter of higher education, the only members of my family that's doing well financially are the ones that got degrees.
Although a trend that Ime observing is that positions that require degrees are becoming less and less as company's seek offshore for positions.
The other side of that is that more and more people who are been taken in as "refugees" most of whom are unskilled , and are now becoming compedetors for unskilled work such as the ubiquitous window cleaners and house cleaners that most brothers become who have no skill set.
I personally did a trade as a cabinet maker , in the belief that the new system was "around the corner" , but even this trade is been impacted by cheap imported stuff , mainly from china .
I was fortunate that over the years I have worked with men who were black smiths , shipwrights and boat builders, heavy construction workers and artists in wood and steel, this has given me a skill set that covers multiple trades and now I do building maintenance as a result. This will last as long as the body can stand the punishment, but retirement, complete fantasy.Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-23 18:44:02
Same for me WO. I'll get by until my body totally stops, which seems to be "right around the corner".
Reply by wild olive on 2017-11-24 21:22:22
I can be glad that there is an old age pension in Australia, but how it would go say in the USA where you have to fund retirement? I don't know how brothers will cope as they get old , especially if they have been full time servants most of their lives, and I don't see any handouts from the org ?
Reply by Warp Speed on 2017-11-25 10:04:32
Maybe I need to live in Australia! As for those of us
ex-Borg in the U.S. it will be very scary.....
Comment by Jwreject on 2017-11-25 21:58:54
I am an ex- witness I apreciate the bible discussions.
Thank you for everyones thoughts!Reply by Eleasar on 2017-11-26 17:16:21
Welcom jwreject.
Comment by lost in space on 2017-11-25 22:44:37
Last week, I had to face, with your kind of courage for myself, as a Mandated Reporter of abuse and neglect a need to report abuse. The parallel journey of another type of cover up in the educational sector, versus our JW.org sectof. Rewarded" with the police and ambulance after me, for causing "a disturbance". This experience have opened even further our capacity to reach out over the Power of satanic propoganda to eyes open of compassion.
Comment by Eleasar on 2017-11-26 17:33:14
I find the issue against Higher Education absurd. Here is why:
1. A while back in a gilead graduation or Agm they interviewed 9-10 doctors who are in bethel providing care. Samuel Herd even comments on their sacrifice etc. A medical doctor is the longest time in HE. How can you approve them for such service?
2. The number of professors etc. quoted in the literature. Surely these people are contaminated and from a bad source!??☠️
3. In the printed literature on evolution vs creation, they quote a brother Wolf-Ekkehard Lönnig, a scientist from the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research as an authority. He works and researchs in academia. He must be bad association and should be marked.??
4. The list of academic authorities quoted in arguments against evolution.
5. The most outrageous is when they quote bible scholars in academia. A favourite of mine is William Barclay, who was Professor of New Testament studies at Glasgow university. He lived from 1907-78. He was also a Presbyterian minister. I find this one interesting as it brings together Higher Education and Babylon the a Great from a JW perspective. I have also notice that they have stopped using his name and go with “as one scholar says”.????
How can those reading all this not get tainted and seduced but if you do a degree at University it will.?