Cults are identified by the impossibility of a Loyal Opposition to air grievances and an utter lack of mechanism to deal with criticism which may be founded in fact.
The willingness of JW's to tolerate questions at the door from people of "false" religious persuasions is legendary. Yet, bona fide and baptised JW's with years of faithful service who ask questions are silenced and threatened with punitive action.
Where is the love or the logic in this?
Isn't it clear as day that IF questions and complaints were dealt with in a kindly and honest fashion there would BE NO MURMURS necessary because the points of contention would have been defused and diffused?
It is abundantly clear the FDS is afraid of being exposed as liars and charlatans. It is obvious they have no honest rebuttals. What they cultivate is an atmosphere of fear. Truth is the first casualty of their stonewalling policy.
Jesus was constantly dealing with complaints, misunderstandings and contrariness. He always provided answers to his questioners who sought clarification or who launched criticisms of his teachings. JESUS NEVER CONDEMNED Simon Peter for a threefold outright denial of him!
The current leadership could learn a thing or two about following in Christ's footsteps.