Watchtower is trying to prepare Witnesses for the disappointment of reaching 2014 with Armageddon nowhere in sight

For decades Witnesses have been taught that 1914 marked the beginning of a “short period of time” before Christ would banish Satan to the abyss at Armageddon and establish his kingdom on the Earth.

As decade after decade has passed with the promised apocalypse nowhere in sight, many Witnesses are now beginning to realize that perhaps the basis for the 1914 doctrine is not as solid as they were led to believe.

Witnesses now stand on the brink of the year 2014, which will mark 100 years since Christ supposedly took charge in the heavens – a century-long “short period of time!” In response to the disappointment already being experienced by many, Watchtower is ramping up its rhetoric with its latest November 15th magazine (click here for download).

Witnesses are being urged to “close ranks against Satan and the demons,” and elders are warned that they must follow the Society’s instructions “whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not.”

“Show a waiting attitude”

An article entitled “How Can We Maintain a Waiting Attitude?” stirs the emotions on page 10 of the new magazine with a rather psychedelic picture of an angel “holding back the destructive winds of the great tribulation.” The first two paragraphs warn the reader against being impatient.

“Satan knows that he has only ‘a short period of time.’ (Rev. 12:12) However, that ‘period of time’ has gone on for decades, and some may feel that the last days have lasted a long time. As we wait for Jehovah to act, have we personally become impatient?
Impatience can be dangerous, for it can cause us to behave rashly. How can we maintain a waiting attitude?” (w13 11/15 p.10)

The article goes on to discuss the prophet Micah, who is held aloft as an example of loyally waiting on Jehovah despite not seeing the final fulfilment of God’s promises. The reader is then reminded of future events, including the cry of “peace and security,” said to be imminent.

Finally the article concludes by urging Witnesses to “close ranks against the Devil and the demons” by drawing close to one another and displaying “confidence in Jehovah’s leadership.”

A stirring image reminds Witnesses where their loyalties lie

Throughout the magazine, the reader is reminded of how “imminent” Armageddon is.

“God’s promised new world is near, and our salvation is nearer than we may think.” (w13 11/15 p.7)

“Our way of life will thus reveal that we are staying awake spiritually and that we really believe that the end of this wicked system of things is imminent.” (w13 11/15 p.7)

“If we are busy helping others to gain accurate knowledge about God, the time remaining before the coming of Jehovah’s judgment will pass more quickly. Soon—even suddenly—time will run out. When it does, how glad we will be that we kept busy in the Kingdom preaching work!” (w13 11/15 p.12)

In the near future, the nations will say ‘Peace and security!'” (w13 11/15 p.12)

“Already we see indications that her [false religion’s] demise is near.” (w13 11/15 p.13)

Soon, Jehovah’s day will come.” (w13 11/15 p.14)

In the near future, Jehovah’s apparently vulnerable people will come under attack…” (w13 11/15 p.20)

The aim of the magazine is obvious. The reader is to be kept in a heightened state of expectation despite the fact that the Society has been making the same promises as those quoted above for generations. No acknowledgment is made that, just perhaps, the reason why Witnesses are becoming “impatient” is because they have now been hearing these promises for decades, and appear to be no closer to seeing any fulfilment.

Reaching out to inactive ones

Every year an unknown number of Witnesses are so disillusioned that they become “inactive” and drift away from the organization. In doing so they often learn the real truth about Watchtower’s history or teachings from websites such as this, but they decide against formally disassociating themselves in order to avoid the harmful repercussions of doing so, i.e. shunning by relatives.

Now, in this latest article, it seems the Society is trying to bolster their numbers by reaching out to so-called “faders” and beckoning them to return. The writers plead directly with inactive ones on pages 13 and 14…

“Are you among those who are not now actively serving God? Perhaps someone in the congregation hurt you and as a result you stopped associating with Jehovah’s organization. Since some time may have passed, ask yourself: ‘Is my life now more meaningful, and am I happier? Was it Jehovah who offended me, or was it an imperfect human? Has Jehovah God ever done anything to harm me?’ Really, he has always done good toward us. Even if we are not living up to our dedication to him, he allows us to enjoy the good things he provides. (Jas. 1:16, 17) Soon, Jehovah’s day will come. Now is the time to return to our heavenly Father’s loving arms and to the congregation—the only safe haven in these last days.—Deut. 33:27; Heb. 10:24, 25.” (w13 11/15 pp.13,14)

Of course, inactive ones like myself must answer these questions for themselves. However, I for one have difficulty even taking the questions seriously. For example, I may not attend meetings or preach as a Witness anymore, but I do not consider myself to be no longer “serving God.” I am neither serving nor ‘disserving’ God any more now than when I was an active Witness, because I have done research and satisfied myself that the organization is no more associated with God than any other religion.

Once beyond the organization’s grip, it is easier for inactive ones to do research and realize that there is nothing special about the organization

Another question asks, “Was it Jehovah who offended me, or was it an imperfect human?” Again, the question sidesteps any need to prove whether or not the organization has anything to do with God, and simply equates Jehovah with the organization. In the mind of the writer, the two are apparently indistinguishable.

Finally, as to the question “Is my life now more meaningful, and am I happier?” I can answer emphatically that yes, I am much happier. I may not have all the answers, and not everything in my life may be perfect, but what problems I do experience mostly stem from the harm caused by an authoritarian religion robbing many of my family members of the ability to think for themselves.

Apart from that, I am certainly happier because I am no longer wasting time and money running around and getting stressed attending meetings and preaching to people solely to satisfy the demands of a religion that teaches things that are demonstrably false, and even harmful.

All in all, I find it baffling that Watchtower should encourage Witnesses to reach out to inactive ones in this way, and risk exposing them to individuals who have discovered the real truth about the organization. The naivety with which this part of the magazine is written suggests to me that the Watchtower writer in question is completely deluded. He believes that Watchtower is almost synonymous with Jehovah, and that deep down those who fade from the organization retain a similar devotion. If only he knew the real truth!

“Obey any instructions”

At various points in the magazine the reader is reminded of the need to obey the elders regardless of any mistakes they may make. An article on page 16 entitled “Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes—What They Mean for Us Today” gives a lengthy discussion of events during the time of Hezekiah when the Jews came under attack from Assyrian forces.

The prophecy in Micah regarding seven shepherds and eight dukes is then claimed to be a foregleam of the role of elders during the time of the end. Elders are said to be a provision from Jehovah to protect against the “modern-day Assyrian.” Nowhere is this “Assyrian” clearly identified, rather he is referred to as being either one or all of a number of potential foes, including “Gog of Magog,” “the king of the north,” and “the kings of the earth.”

If the above application of Micah’s prophecy sounds baffling and cryptic, the ensuing instructions to elders are even more so. Consider the guidance given in paragraph 17…

“Elders who are reading this article can draw some useful conclusions from the account we have just considered: (1) The most practical step that we can take to prepare for the coming attack of ‘the Assyrian’ is that of strengthening our faith in God and helping our brothers to do the same. (2) When ‘the Assyrian’ attacks, the elders must be absolutely convinced that Jehovah will deliver us. (3) At that time, the lifesaving direction that we receive from Jehovah’s organization may not appear practical from a human standpoint. All of us must be ready to obey any instructions we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not. (4) Now is the time for any who may be putting their trust in secular education, material things, or human institutions to adjust their thinking. The elders must stand ready to help any who may now be wavering in their faith.” (w13 11/15 p.20)

Aside from the usual broadside against higher education, a more worrying aspect of the above quote is found in the sentences highlighted in bold. You see, Watchtower is already issuing elders with directions that are not “sound” or “practical,” most notably in its harmful approach to child abuse, which is already yielding multiple lawsuits, some of which are only now being publicized.

Is Watchtower trying to further radicalize elders by using Micah’s prophecy of the “seven shepherds, eight dukes?”

The idea that elders can expect yet more controversial orders from their Brooklyn masters in the near future is disturbing to say the least. It leads me to wonder, is there a strategy behind this? Is the Governing Body trying to prepare elders to show unflinching loyalty during some future situation that they have already mapped out? I guess we’ll have to wait and see on that score.

Regardless of what the future holds, the siege mentality encouraged in this latest article and encouragement to accept Watchtower’s authority at all costs is there for all to see. The very expression “close ranks” encourages a divisive “us against them” approach that I’m sure will be played out in countless homes and families around the world wherever there are stray family members to be shunned.

As depressing as it is to see Watchtower becoming increasingly radicalized, I can only hope the ramped-up rhetoric will strike a chord and prove to indoctrinated Witness friends and relatives that all is not as it should be. One thing is certain – if they are expecting something to happen between now and October 2014, they will end up sorely disappointed. And Watchtower knows it.

 

 

 

 

 

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81 thoughts on ““Close ranks against Satan!”: Watchtower prepares Witnesses for 2014 disappointment

  • August 22, 2013 at 3:25 am
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    Loved this Cedars. Very good breakdown of the WT article.
    Do NOT run to the forest.

  • August 22, 2013 at 6:36 am
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    Cedars, I have just finished reading the article “Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes” if I may I have some questions for the GB or the Writing committee if any are visiting your site.

    There appears to be an apparent contradiction in the article. Ahaz was an appointed King for Jehovah and anyone following his life saving direction ended up doomed. In paragraph it states

    “What a disappointment Ahaz was as a shepherd of Judah! We might ask ourselves, ‘When I have important decisions to make, do I put my trust in God or in men?’—Prov. 3:5, 6.”

    Then at paragraph 17 we are told

    “At that time, the life-saving direction that we receive from Jehovah’s organization may not appear practical from a human standpoint. All of us must be ready to obey any instructions we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not”

    Questions
    1. Are all elders imperfect men?
    2. Can elders make mistakes?
    3. When I have important decisions to make, do I put my trust in God or in men?
    4. Please explain this apparent contradiction.

  • August 22, 2013 at 9:21 am
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    Excellent questions, 70wks. Is it true there is a department that answers these types of questions by mail or email?

    1. Yes, elders are imperfect men.
    2. Yes, elders can make mistakes.
    3. You don’t need to make decisions.
    4. You’re asking the wrong questions. Understanding is not for us.

    I think the wise choice, would be to trust the men who are being directed to feed you your spiritual food and divine instructions. The FDS has an inside track on Jehovah’s desires and plans for you. The beauty of it, is that you don’t have to think or worry. Understanding is not for you. Listen, serve and obey… Is it not a comforting feeling, to know that you don’t have to make these difficult decisions as the great tribulation approaches? Jehovah is guiding his spiritual organization. Remember that failure to follow their instructions, could lead to your eternal destruction. Be wise! Instead of putting energy into worrying about such matters, the wise servant will spend these last few days serving his master!

    I wonder what kind of instructions they have planned, that the sheep have to be groomed so obviously in advance. This warning is Pretty frightening, at least for a thinking person.

    There have got to be a lot of confused and frightened people inside the tower today. Please Jehovah, awaken them from their trance. Help them escape in time.

  • August 23, 2013 at 2:17 am
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    I feel truly sorry for any JW that would ask these questions and get that type of response.

    I think you are spot on Faithfull Witness, apart from the omission of praying to Jehovah, they would say exactly that. If a JW believes that God is directing them the poor individual would be fighting conflicting feelings, which I myself once was, which is clear evidence this is a high control religion.

    How thankful we should be for sites like this, that we are no longer conflicted and can think for ourselves. Thanks Cedars

  • August 23, 2013 at 2:19 am
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    I remember being told that by obeying imperfect men taking the lead, even if their direction proved wrong Jah would bless you later for showing faith in his org. They have a get out clause for every scenario, failed prophecy, new light and mis-direction and we are the ones who have to adjust our thinking to keep following the chariot.

  • August 23, 2013 at 5:53 am
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    Exactly the frustration I feel, Amelia. Sometimes it is just not worth attempting to reason with family and friends still under the delusion. Someone actually posted on a Facebook group of JW’s about 2014 and how it is so exciting to be a part of this. Of course, they cautiously hinted at next year being THE YEAR. I just shake my head. Last year when I thought about the 100 year reign of Christ approaching, it was a definite problem to me. Cognitive dissonance in action!

  • September 1, 2013 at 2:40 am
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    I would love for someone to call the GB out on the time of the end!

    We could ask them to give us a year by which time it would be inconceivable for the great tribulation and Armageddon not to have arrived.

    Say, for example 2050, or any year that they want to choose. We then wait for that year to come, and lo and behold, it doesn’t come!

    They never would, but I would be curious what year they would choose.

  • September 2, 2013 at 8:38 am
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    Since reading the warnings in this article (page 20, paragraph 17), about following instructions that don’t make sense from a human standpoint, i am left thinking about the following signs being given to us:
    New light being revealed this month,
    1914 prophecy even more confusing and befuddled than before,
    Change in the definition of the faithful and discrete slave,
    Relocation of world HQ to a remote, rural location,
    Secret handbooks with rules and instructions only for elders,
    Ramping up their fundraising efforts,
    Pressuring poor witnesses to leave their homes and go work for free on a construction project,
    And perhaps the biggest red flag:
    Never-ending warnings and threats to the sheep, about avoiding ANY outside information…
    I am growing more and concerned about the plans the society has in mind for 2014 and beyond.

    I’m sure there are other things that I’ve missed, since avoiding the WTBTS teachings for the last few years. I am concerned for the safety of my family, which unfortunately includes a young niece and nephew. I am planning to attend the local meeting this week, just to see the reaction from people, when this new 1914 truth is revealed.

    I have been effectively silenced, and have not shared this obvious information with my parents, who are under mind control in the grips of the society rules. I’m afraid of cutting my children off from access to their only grandparents.

    It is interesting to me: Why do they publish their study magazines and post them online so far in advance? Clearly, they are GROOMING the flock, preparing them to accept these dangerous instructions of blind obedience to elders, who receive secret messages from the governing body.

    I feel like there is an air raid siren going off, warning these innocent people to flee for their very lives… Yet, they nod their heads and happily obey bizarre teachings. What are they planning? Who will they provoke into “attacking” them as the “Assyrian?” What kind of deliverance from Jehovah are they promising? What instructions will be sent secretly to the body of elders? How will they be instructed to coerce those who are weaker in their faith? How many people can be housed at the new location in Warwick?

    I would love to see a summary or logical conclusion, made from all that is being revealed at this critical time in the society’s history. This pattern looks very familiar somehow. I don’t want to overreact, but hasn’t this been done before, only on a smaller scale? Will millions of followers go along with this? Even if it means their death, to achieve deliverance from Jehovah?

    Looking at their study articles, it is not hard to recognize their careful words and indoctrination, whether they are praying about it or not. My father is completely lost, yet it was less than 5 years ago that he was violently questioning their teachings. The powers of this org are amazing. The human mind is amazing, and the ease with which we accept simple answers to complex questions, is a big problem… Especially in the hands of rich and powerful men.

    Can we get any financial information about the watchtower? How about bank statements or pictures of the houses the members of the governing body enjoy? Do they suffer and sacrifice to promote the good news? Are they donning hard hats, breaking their backs and emptying their family bank accounts in order to rebuild the temple of Nehemiah?

  • September 2, 2013 at 5:39 pm
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    This GB appears to be following in the footsteps of Rutherford. Warwick seems to be Beth Shan (which included an underground shelter) revisited, but on a far grander scale.

  • September 14, 2013 at 8:37 am
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    I have not spoken or see 5 members of my immediate family since April 2012. The other 24 relatives who are practising JWs have not spoken or acknowledged my husband and I in that timeframe also. Shun, Shun, Shun.
    They have conventions to strengthen family values, personal relationships according to the media…….but they learn from the talks to avoid, shun, run…….stay away from all manner of contact with those who have learned “the truth about the truth”. Sad situation.

  • September 14, 2013 at 2:04 pm
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    You have my sympathies, enlightened. For the last 2 years, I have been trying to avoid the same thing happening to me. Eventually something’s got to give. But you are not alone.

  • September 16, 2013 at 10:31 am
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    It is like the Watchtower holds your blood relatives “hostage” until you commit to returning to their publishing company.

    Gorilla warfare.

  • October 13, 2013 at 4:15 am
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    Good Morning. I am new to you website and have enjoyed what I have been reading thus far. Although I have not read through all the comments as yet, I wanted to take the time to say that this all reminds me of the Peoples Temple finale. If those ‘in charge’ are ordered to obey everything they are told to do, whose to say that they will not obey an order to ‘propose a toast’ in all congregations worldwide one day, on the same day, to drink to the end of their very lives. I have been inactive for almost 20 years and will never return.

  • October 24, 2013 at 8:06 am
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    Oh my goodness, THANK YOU SOOO MUCH! My sister and I (both ex-JWs) have been wrecking our brain trying to figure out why our parents have been “extra” pushy and kind of dismal in their words lately. Even associating with us less… it was weird but we knew it had to be SOMEthing new the organization was injecting into them. Ugh… so frustrating!! But knowledge is power, so I thank you for the valuable information.

  • November 17, 2013 at 9:47 pm
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    I do worry that the elders are going to be asked to kill apostates.They will die and go to prison for they’re beliefs,some might kill for it.The magazines have had some suggestive double talk about this.I really want to voice my concerns to the local police department because I feel the society is ramping up for some kind of endgame.I hope the Governing body isn’t that diluded to resort to old testament style violent retribution.It’s too early to make a determination,but they are basicly telling the elders to turn the common sense detectors to zero to demonstrate faith and loyalty.The apostate hate speeches will continue from the organization.It’s a good thing we have the internet to keep us informed.”Sparlock”will provide:-)

  • November 17, 2013 at 10:19 pm
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    The US government is monitering the witnesses and other religious organizations for sure that tend to be extreme.I would not be supprised if they have a few moles keeping an eye on things.If the organization ever crosses the line into the “koolaid”or “Waco” zone we will be the last to know.The GB will be arrested and all the other witnesses will think the Tribulation started.I’m sad because my extended family is still hooked in this mess.The GB philosophy is if they can’t have members,nobody will.They will scorch the earth and burn all bridges.

  • January 17, 2014 at 8:02 pm
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    its Just sad to see all of yous are wasting your time and making such an outragious accusations against the witnesses. i guess its only a matter of time, before the truth gets brighter, and find out who’s right and wrong.

    • January 17, 2014 at 8:26 pm
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      Yes, Fil – the Witnesses are indeed right. WHo could doubt the veracity of these Jehovah issued TRUTHS?

      1. Armageddon will occur in 1914.

      2. Jehovah does not care about blood transfusion (pre 1945)

      3. Jehovah will murder at Armageddon those who have blood transfusions. (late 20th century)

      4. Jehovah permits the use of blood fractions but will murder at Armageddon anyone donating the blood from which the fractions are taken.

      5. Jehovah is happy for Christmas to be celebrated. (pre 1925)

      6. Jehovah will murder at Armageddon anyone celebrating Christmas.

      7. Armageddon will come in 1925.

      8. Abraham and Isaac will be resurrected in San Diego in 1925.

      9. Armageddon will come in 1975.

      Is there anyone who could doubt the absolute TRUTH, Fil, of any one of these Jehovah issued TRUTHS?

      Won’t it be great, Fil, when 1914, 1925 and 1975 arrive and Jehovah murders nearly everyone on earth? Yippee – Can’t wait!

  • January 19, 2014 at 5:59 pm
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    I am just greateful that this Organisations and it blind followers do not have any real power in the world.

  • January 22, 2014 at 8:47 am
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    You know about New Scrolls don’t you?
    What is the truth about these “New Scrolls”?
    Jesus said, “Your Word is truth”, so we can rely on God’s Word to tell us the truth about them.
    This is what Revelation 20:12 says:
    “And scrolls were opened…….”And the dead were judged out of those things written in the scrolls according to their deeds.”

    1) No “new” scrolls are mentioned.
    2) The scrolls spoken about are not “new teachings”, they are used as a basis to judge the dead.
    3) The scrolls are not opened during Christ’s 1000 year reign – read Revelation 20:1-10.

    ‘Interpolation’ means “to insert new or spurious matter”, something which the angel warned against; “If anyone makes an addition to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this scroll.” (Rev.22:18) This applies to the use of the word “new” in order to create a wrong teaching.

  • January 22, 2014 at 9:44 am
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    “ask yourself: ‘Is my life now more meaningful, and am I happier?”

    Um. YES.

    That is all.

  • January 22, 2014 at 1:01 pm
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    If you have the video link where Anthony Morris 3 speaks of his experiences in Vietnam I really could use it brother as I am dealing with a 60+ year elder JW and I told him about this and he wants me to prove it .. Keep up the great work and thank you

    • January 22, 2014 at 1:03 pm
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      Hi Nick. If you type in “Anthony Morris Vietnam” into the YouTube search bar, it should be one of the first videos that come up.

  • March 6, 2014 at 6:04 pm
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    Fading Brother,

    No, it is not the unforgivable sin. Disfellowshipped and disassociated ones can be reinstated.

    I think you should watch Mr Cedar’s new vlog. It covers some of what you say.

    Peace be with you

    Excelsior!

  • March 7, 2014 at 2:04 am
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    I think, ‘Fading Brother’, that you’ll find it’s only the ‘anointed’ who are deemed ‘apostate’ and df’d for that specific reason, have committed the unforgivable sin.

  • March 7, 2014 at 4:20 am
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    Fading Brother,

    You may be right about “Annointed” ones. Never met one, never was one.

    I’m sorry that you have suffered so. Many of us share in your frustration and regret. We all have our individual journeys to freedom, and I wish you well in yours.

    I found that my salvation lay in realising that all human beings are fundamentally the same. There is no separation unless we choose to make them. The WTBTS has spent so many years separating people into little flock and great crowd, bad association and publisher in good standing and the list goes on and on.

    Science has been a great help to me too. I have no hesitation in saying that the Deluge is a story. There was no world wide flood at the time that the bible says there was one. There is no evidence in geology. There is no evidence in genetics. Once one realises that not everything the WTBTS say is true is verifiable, then one is free to find ones own path, free of their prejudice.

    Soren Kiekegaard, a Danish philosopher, said two very profound things that have stayed with me:

    “If you rob a man of his life lie, you rob him of his happiness”

    And

    “Freedom is anxiety”

    I have no desire to rob you of any faith you hold. I cannot prove that you are mistaken. I am free, so I am anxious. I no longer have someone else to define my morality for me. I must decide what is right and what is wrong. I must answer for my decisions. Freedom from the WTBTS is just the first step to becoming our own moral agents. We can no longer defer to an organisation.

    If one is a Christian, one must follow Christ. If one no longer believes, then one must tread carefully and base decisions on good principles. What is good? That is for another discussion.

    Life outside a cosseted, constrictive organisation is hard. People we were taught were evil and deserving of death turn out to be ordinary human beings just like us. People are revealed to never be totally good or totally evil, they reflect ourselves back at us. I am good man who can do evil things, just like everybody else.

    Peace be with you

    Excelsior!

    • March 7, 2014 at 5:40 am
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      Well said, Excelsior!

      I am also free and anxious. :) I wouldn’t have it any other way…

      You said, “If one is a Christian, one must follow Christ.”
      I spent a few years, listening to JW’s tell me what the “Bible REALLY Teaches,” through weekly sessions of “free at-home BS.” My husband and I even took our babies to meetings and attended regularly for quite some time, making a few “friends” inside the society.

      Not once did any of them mention that “Christians follow Christ.” I agree, that is for another discussion… but I am now trying to keep my faith and am actually reading the Bible without the aid of WT “understanding” (commentary published in their literature). I have discovered so many conflicts between the teaching of the JW scribes and pharisees, and what Jesus Christ himself actually said and did. So many LIES about Christ, are being taught by those who claim to be anointed by Him.

      I am indeed anxious! My mind and heart are distraught and confused, as I struggle to overcome their false teachings. I am so glad I escaped from this cruel organization with my immediate family intact, and have only suffered some mild persecution from family members who fell under their spell. Someday, I hope my parents will wake up and realize they have been duped, and will exit the tower unharmed.

      I feel helpless to do anything to help those I love. They have made the choice to serve an organization, over the love of their own children and grandchildren. Our family has been torn in half by this deceitful society and its made-up rules. The JW teachings are not to “follow Christ,” but to “continue working to vindicate the name of Jehovah,” even though there is not a single account in the Bible, of Jesus calling on his Heavenly Father by his first name.

  • March 7, 2014 at 5:07 am
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    Fading Brother: You are not alone.

    I am not a JW (decided not to join after extensive study), but I don’t think I have yet met one JW who really knows what they believe.

    My heart goes out to you. They have robbed you of your life and your own free will. You have been forced into a high-control religious group, that now seems to be ruling you with fear and confusion.

    This is not by accident. They do not want you to understand. You must obey the rules, even if you do not know what they are. You are not allowed to ask questions of those very ones who are supposedly “feeding you” in this “time of the end.” You are expected to rely on the society, as if it were your “mother,” never questioning or making a decision without her permission.

    It is heart-wrenching to watch you battle with your own mind on what should be a simple answer. They have somehow got you convinced that the worst thing you can do is to think for yourself, even though you can’t find evidence of when they told you this.

    I thank you for your comments. It is good to see someone who is brave enough to realize they DO have the right to ask a question. Your perspective adds a lot to the discussions here. Please stick around. You have friends here… friends who can not punish you or exile you.

  • March 7, 2014 at 2:04 pm
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    @Fading bro:

    I really don’t think the GB is ever going to introduce a kool-aid scenario. For the most part, they are involved in a sort of symbiotic relationship between their personal selves and their “GB” selves…
    In other words, as it has been said, they are believing their own hype and deceiving themselves.
    When they read something in the WT that THEY themselves have authorized, it is almost as if they again become R&F Witnesses who are reading it with fresh eyes for the first time. It will always be “just a little longer” and “right round the corner.”

    At the same time, there has to be the same cognitive dissonance being experienced with the higher ups as much as the rank and file. They HAVE to be engaging in major self deception when they end up doing back flips trying to cover up sexual abuse and other serious matters.

  • April 7, 2014 at 9:38 am
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    This comment is downright SINISTER. It’s scary. I mentioned it to my mother and grandparents and other family that are very active witnesses. Seeing this comment and knowing about the downsizing, property selling, etc. I can’t help but wonder what they’ll do with $1 Billion (minus the cost of the new place). Will they use it to buy cyanide capsules to distribute to congregations? Bombs? Weapons? When you read the above quote, the first very obvious question is: What the HECK are they planning to do?! So scary. My mother said, “Well it doesn’t matter if it doesn’t sound practical to our simple human minds. I’m going to do whatever it is no matter what because Jehovah is commanding it.” I’m desperate for my family to see the sinister side because not only am I terrified for them but also, they’re all sincerely devoted to God and I want them to see not only the ugly JW side, but also the beauty of the real message of the gospel. No amount of my showing them anything in the Bible does a bit of good. The total indoctrination apparently is too deep.

  • June 13, 2014 at 1:36 am
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    yipes.
    i always thought that once the rapture happened, my friend would wise up and leave the j.w.’s. now i’m really worried that she’ll end up lock stepping to whatever their organization says.

  • January 13, 2015 at 1:15 am
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    It’s amazing to me that so called intelligent men cannot see what is going on in the world today. People starving, wars, people becoming more and more violent, government corruption. Do you honestly think that this will go on forever? How bad do things have to become before before men see the truth? The men in Bethel hide nothing. The witnesses know that someday soon, all the suffering will end. They also know how others think of them. Do you not think that this is exactly what Satan wants? He wants others to view witnesses as the outcasts. He wants you to turn away from the truth. He has many tactics and during these end times, he will use them all. He will keep you blind. But of course, you put the witnesses down. Do any of you ever sit and read what you write and how negative it is? What good are you doing?

    • January 13, 2015 at 12:42 pm
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      The world is getting more peaceful and better fed. JW doom mongering serves only one purpose; recruitment to the ranks of unpaid WT mag pushers. Before I learned to read and think for myself I too was a sucker for all this Matthew 24 based last days baloney. I hope you learn something too, James. Everybody deserves better than to waste away as a slave to the ‘Faithful and Discreet Slave’. http://www.ted.com/talks/steven_pinker_on_the_myth_of_violence?language=en

  • February 18, 2015 at 12:28 am
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    As the bible prophecies foretold, yes the world seems at peace then sudden destruction. Dummy

  • February 18, 2015 at 12:32 am
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    True, as the bible says. A thief in the night. Jesus even said people will hate you and cast stones. This is all prophecy my friend. They are all blind.

    • February 18, 2015 at 2:32 am
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      Jasper- this ‘mockers and false prophets in the last days’ stuff is a pathetic insurance agianst one’s prophecies being duff. Don’t get lonely, though. In the wrong prophecy dept. the JWs have stacks of company, not only in the rest of Christendom, but also in Judaism and Islam.

  • February 18, 2015 at 3:33 am
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    @Jasper, we all bought that too, just like what you said. For me it was 50 years ago, when I thought suddenly the United Nations was going to turn on to Christendom and Armageddon was going to start.

    If you aren’t afraid to research the history of the organization at the year 1918 to see what the Watchtower was printing and selling to the public, you will see that there is no way that the Jesus and Jehovah would have chosen the Watchtower as his one and only true organization on earth and you will realize that the Society are lying to you.

    Look up in any encyclopedia and you will also find that Jerusalem was destroyed in 587/586 and the Society is knowingly lying about that too.

    They lie about what the Bible actually says and they lie about references in the books and magazines. They are lying to you. There is no righteous God that would back people who have no conscience about lying to it’s followers.

    Do some research before calling somebody a dummy.

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