Here is my letter to him:
Dear XXXX
How nice it was for you to take the time and write to us. It certainly has been a long time since we have seen each other. We have read your letter and you make several points that we wanted to comment on. You seem to have spent a lot of time on the letter and we know how busy you are and we thank you for that. We have scanned your letter and pasted parts in so that we can answer the points that you raised.
I was pleased to hear from you although deeply concerned about the circumstances of your letter. How are you both!!?? And how is dear Chive? Very grown up by now I suppose!
Young Chive is very grown up now. A bit too grown up sometimes! We are both well. Uncle onion is now a fire-fighter at XXXX and Sister Garlic is working at XXXX in Accounts. How is XXXX doing at school? She must be in the high school now? And what about XXX?
Right, here we go! This is what you wrote:
"In the early 1900's many of our faithful brothers were convinced that when the Gentile Time ended in 1914 they would be
taking their place in the heavens as members of Jehovah's kingdom. What a shock it was to them when 1914 came and went, to find themselves not only still on earth but with a great work ahead of them. How did they react? Many were stumbled and left off serving Jehovah. Others realised that the problem had been their own lack of understanding of the scriptures and Jehovah's purpose, and set to work to improve these and share their increasing knowledge with others. Aren't we members of what is truly becoming a "Great Crowd" thankful that they did?! But why did Jehovah allow them to hold these erroneous ideas in the first place? There are several. For one, it acted as a test of motive and love. Those who were serving for selfish reasons or with just a date in view, were the ones who were stumbled. Those humble ones who realised that it was their own misunderstanding of the situation that was in error, and that they needed to do more research in Jehovah's word and displayed a willingness to be used by Jehovah to accomplish this work, were the ones that stayed faithful. And would we have such a great throng today if those early members had not been spurred on by a sense of urgency even though it was (at the time) premature? So
Jehovah's allowance of an erroneous view for a short time had positive benefits while making his servants motives manifest."
Just who lead them to believe that the Gentile times were ending? What were they basing their judgement on? The Proclaimers book on page 632 fully acknowledges the dates: 1874, 1878, 1881, 1914, 1915, 1925. However, missing are the quotes from the Watchtower showing the definiteness and certainty with which such predictions were made. As an example of how Witnesses in the year 2001 generally misunderstand the events in their earlier history notice this familiar comment regarding that “memorable” convention in Cedar Point Ohio in 1922, as stated in the February 1, 2000 Watchtower on page 14:
“Hence, they have responded zealously to this call sounded at a landmark convention in September 1922: “This is the day of all days. Behold, the King reigns! You are his publicity agents. Therefore advertise, advertise, advertise, the King and his kingdom.”
Other than a few lines from one of Brother Rutherford’s talks, Witnesses in general know nothing more from that nine-day “landmark convention.” The following Watchtower quotes fill in just exactly what regarding the Kingdom they were “advertising.” Notice in particular when in 1922 they believed Christ’s presence began, and what they were so eager to “advertise.” These important facts are rarely mentioned in connection with this “landmark convention.”
"The period must end in 1925. The type ending, the antitype must begin; and therefore 1925 is definitely fixed in the scriptures. every thinking person can see that a great climax is at hand. The Scriptures clearly indicate that the climax is the fall of Satan's empire and the full establishment of the Messianic kingdom. This climax being reached by 1925, and that marking the beginning of the fulfillment of the long promised blessings of life to the people, millions now living on earth will be living then and those who obey the righteous laws of the new arrangement will live forever. Therefore it can be confidently said at this time that millions now living will never die." (Golden Age, Jan. 4, 1922, p. 217)
"The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the "time of the end" began in 1799; that the Lord's second presence began in 1874." (The Watchtower, March 1, 1922)
"We have no doubt whatever in regard to the chronology relating to the dates of 1874, 1914, 1918, and 1925. It was on this line of reckoning that the dates 1874, 1914, and 1918 were located; and the Lord has placed the stamp of his seal upon 1914 and 1918 beyond any possibility of erasure. What further evidence do we need? Using this same measuring line.... it is an easy matter to locate 1925, probably in the fall, for the beginning of the antitypical jubilee. There can be no more question about 1925 than there was about 1914." (Watchtower, p. 150, May 15, 1922)
"It is on the basis of such and so many correspondences -- in accordance with the soundest laws known to science- that we affirm that, Scriptural, scientifically, and historically, present-truth chronology is correct beyond a doubt. Its reliability has been abundantly confirmed by the dates and events of 1874, 1914, and 1918. Present-truth chronology is a secure basis on which the consecrated child of God may endeavour to search out things to come." (Watchtower, June 15 1922)
"This chronology is not of man, but of God. Being of divine origin and divinely corroborated, present-truth chronology stands in a class by itself, absolutely and unqualifiedly correct...." (Watchtower, July 15, 1922 p. 217)
'1914 ended the Gentile Times...The date 1925 is even more distinctly indicated by the Scriptures...by then the great crisis will be reached and probably passed' (Watchtower Sept. 1, 1922, p. 262)
'1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures...the Christian has much more upon which to base his faith than Noah had (so far as the Scriptures reveal) upon which to base his faith in the coming deluge'
(Watchtower April 1, 1923, p. 106)
"Our thought is, that 1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures. As to Noah, the Christian now has much more upon which to base his faith than Noah had upon which to base his faith in a coming deluge." (Watchtower, p. 106, March 1, 1923)
"No doubt many boys and girls who read this book will live to see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Daniel, and those other men of old come forth in the glory of their better resurrection, of perfect in mind and body. It will not take long for Christ to appoint them to their post of honor and authority as his earthly representatives. The world and all the present conveniences will seen strange to them at first, but they will soon become accustomed to the new methods. They may have some amusing experiences at first; for they never saw telephones, radios, automobiles, electric lights, aeroplanes, steam engines, and many other things so familiar to us. (The Way To Paradise, 1924, p. 226)
"Surely there is not the slightest room for doubt in the mind of a truly consecrated child of God that the Lord Jesus is present and has been since 1874." (Watchtower, Jan. 1, 1924, p5)
"The year 1925 is a date definitely and clearly marked in Scriptures, even more clearly than that of 1914. (Watchtower 1924, p. 211)
What the message of the time really was was that “the Lord Jesus is present and has been since 1874.” The Bible Students were “eager” to “advertise” because they believed, or more correctly, were led to believe that the Scriptures indicated that “Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Daniel, and those other men of old come forth in the glory of their better resurrection,” and that some faithful Christians might receive their heavenly reward just a few short years away in 1925. (See also Proclaimers book page 78, paragraph 2 for further confirmation of these facts.)
You said "Others realised that the problem had been their own lack of understanding" and "why did Jehovah allow these them to hold these erroneous views in the first place?" We disagree here with you XXXX. It is clear from the above quotes that the Governing Body set the dates and as they thought they were acting as "Jehovah’s channel" and these dates were set in stone. Do you really think that a God of order would give "duff" information as a "test of motive and love”? He does not need to do that as He can read hearts. So, when these events failed to materialize, what did the Society do? Did they humbly apologize for their “over-zealousness” and acknowledge their responsibility for leading the “flock” to an erroneous conclusion? Let us look at the facts:
"Some anticipated that the work would end in 1925, but the Lord did not state so. The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, they were inclined to throw away everything." (Watchtower 1926 p. 232.)
Of course, having looked at the original quotes, we now understand that the “Some” who “anticipated the work would end in 1925,” was really the Society who had lead the brothers to that conclusion. Contrast the statement “but the Lord did not state so,” with what they said earlier in 1922:
"This chronology is not of man, but of God. Being of divine origin and divinely corroborated, present-truth chronology stands in a class by itself, absolutely and unqualifiedly correct...." (Watchtower, July 15, 1922 p. 217).
The Society put the blame on the members when they stated that “the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, they were inclined to throw away everything." There are more examples of this but the one that we all remember is 1975. Many were in the truth at that time, but most today were not. Was 1975 another date with which “the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason?”
"According to this trustworthy Bible chronology six thousand years from man's creation will end in 1975, and the seventh period of a thousand years of human history will begin in the fall of 1975 C.E Six thousand years of man's existence on earth will soon be up, yea within this generation. The rein of Christ...to run parallel with the 7th millennium..." (Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God, 1966, p. 29-30)
"Discussion of 1975 overshadowed about everything else. 'The new book compels us to realize that Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed,' said a conventioneer." (Watchtower 15/10/1966, p 629)
"Just think, 1975 marks the end of 6,000 years of human experience.....Will it be the time when God executes the wicked?....It very well could be, but we will have to wait to see.' (Watchtower, 1/5/1967, p 262)
"The immediate future is certain to be filled with climatic events, for this old system is nearing its complete end. Within a few years at most the final parts of Bible prophecy relative to these last days will undergo fulfillment resulting in the liberation of surviving mankind into Christ's glorious 1000 year reign!" (Watchtower, 1/5/1968)
Eight years from the Autumn of 1967 would bring us to the Autumn of 1975, fully 6,000 years into God's seventh day, his rest day. (Watchtower May 1, 1968 p. 271)
"Why Are You Looking Forward To 1975?" … "What about all this talk concerning the year 1975? Lively discussions, some based on speculation, have burst into flame during recent months among serious students of the Bible. Their interest has been kindled by the belief that 1975 will mark the end of 6,000 years of human history since Adam's creation. The nearness of such an important date indeed fires the imagination and presents unlimited possibilities for discussion." (Watchtower, Aug. 15, 1968, p. 494)
"'Adam Created At Close Of 'Sixth Day' Are we to assume from this study that the battle of Armageddon will be all over by the autumn of 1975, and the long-looked-for thousand-year reign of Christ will begin by then ? Possibly, but we wait to see how closely the seventh thousand-year period of man's existence coincides with the Sabbath-like thousand-year reign of Christ....It may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years.' (Watchtower, Aug. 15, 1968, p499)
Eight years from the Autumn of 1967 would bring us to the Autumn of 1975, fully 6,000 years into God's seventh day, his rest day. (Watchtower May 1, 1968 p. 271)
"More recently, the book entitled "Famine-1975!" [by W. & P. Paddock, 1967, pp. 52,55,61.] said concerning today's food shortages: "Hunger is rampant throughout country after country, continent after continent around the undeveloped belt of the tropics and subtropics. Today's crisis can move in only one direction -toward catastrophe. Today hungry nations; tomorrow starving nations." … "By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations." (The Truth That Leads To Eternal Life, p 88-89, 1968)
"Just think, brothers, there are only about ninety months left before 6,000 years of mans existence on earth is completed... The majority of people living today will probably be alive when Armageddon breaks out, and there are no resurrection hopes for those who are destroyed then. So, now more than ever, it is vital not to ignore that spirit of wanting to do more." (Kingdom Ministry, March 1968, p. 4 [note: 1968 + 90 months = 1975])
"In view of the short time left, a decision to pursue a career in this system of things is not only unwise but extremely dangerous....Many young brothers and sisters were offered scholarship or employment that promised fine pay. However, they turned them down and put spiritual interests first." (Kingdom Ministry, June 1969, p. 3)
Notice how the Truth book (as published prior to 1975), the primary study aid at the time, subtly highlights 1975 in the mind of the student and teacher.
*** tr (Truth book) pg.9 1 Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand! *** [as published prior to 1975]
Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is "a period of unequaled instability, unequaled violence." And he warned: "I know enough of what is going on to assure you that, in fifteen years from today, this world is going to be too dangerous to live in." [Emphasis added. Note: 15 years from 1960=1975]
Even the Society recognized the leading nature of their remarks because the Truth book published after 1975 reads like this:
*** tr (Truth book) pg.9 1 Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand! *** [as published after to 1975]
Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is "a period of unequaled instability, unequaled violence." Based on what he knew was then going on in the world, it was his conclusion that soon "this world is going to be too dangerous to live in." [Emphasis added]
Local Witnesses who were in the truth at the time remember heavy emphasis given from the platform at conventions and assemblies and in the Kingdom Halls regarding 1975.Although we were young at the time, we remember the hype about 1975. Statistics showed explosive growth in the years prior to 1975 giving evidence that the Society was aware of the “positive” effect of all the talk regarding 1975. Anyone who did not express confidence that the end was coming in 1975 would have been labelled “weak. We remember XXXXX XXXX telling us about his Grandfather who refused to cash in his pension and how he was scorned upon.” Many sold their homes and pioneered in the months before 1975. How did the society feel about these actions? Did they encourage caution?
*** km 5/74 3 How Are You Using Your Life? ***
Yes, since the summer of 1973 there have been new peaks in pioneers every month. Now there are 20,394 regular and special pioneers in the United States, an all-time peak. That is 5,190 more than there were in February 1973! A 34-percent increase! Does that not warm our hearts? Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world’s end.-1 John 2:17.”
Anyone who has been a Witness for some time is well aware that “new ideas” or “thoughts” never originate nor are permitted at the “local level,” and that no Witness would have come up with 1975 without having been led to that conclusion by means of printed publications and talks by Circuit and District Overseers. So did the Society humbly acknowledge their responsibility in leading the members to yet another wrong date? Did they apologize for failing to encourage caution among the brothers?
*** w76 7/15 441 A Solid Basis for Confidence *** 15 But it is not advisable for us to set our sights on a certain date, neglecting everyday things we would ordinarily care for as Christians, such as things that we and our families really need. We may be forgetting that, when the “day” comes, it will not change the principle that Christians must at all times take care of all their responsibilities. If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint, seeing that it was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment, but that his own understanding was based on wrong premises.”
If this language seems familiar, then it probably is. It’s very reminiscent of the language used when 1925 came and went. “But it is not advisable for us to set our sights on a certain date.” Where was this caution prior to 1975? “If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint.” It is made to appear that the Witness was following some other line of thought other than that, which was set forth by the Society. Remember, a “good” Witness was following the “line of thought” as set forth in this Kingdom Service quote from 1974 as stated earlier: “Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world’s end.-1 John 2:17.”
“It was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment.” Certainly it wasn’t the Word of God. It’s quite apparent who it was that “deceived and brought disappointment.” But once again, where was the blame put?
Yes, once again, the blame was put on the individual. He had somehow reached a wrong understanding. Most Witnesses today will still believe that they somehow read more into things than what was said or stated, and that the Society was not at fault in any way for its members looking to 1975.Both of us remember telling people this on the ministry. In all fairness, the Society did acknowledge some responsibility for 1975, five years later in the March 15, 1980 Watchtower.
“With the appearance of the book Life Everlasting-in Freedom of the Sons of God, and its comments as to how appropriate it would be for the millennial reign of Christ to parallel the seventh millennium of man’s existence, considerable expectation was aroused regarding the year 1975. There were statements made then, and thereafter, stressing that this was only a possibility. Unfortunately, however, along with such cautionary information, there were other statements published that implied that such realization of hopes by that year was more of a probability than a mere possibility. It is to be regretted that these latter statements apparently overshadowed the cautionary ones and contributed to a buildup of the expectation already initiated.”
Such acknowledgment proved to be too little too late, as tens of thousands left the organization. Not necessarily because they were somehow “unfaithful to God”, or “serving for a date.” No, many realized that claim that the organization was “directed by God’s Spirit” was inconsistent with its history of failed predictions. Why would God use false predictions to somehow “test and sift” his followers? Every prediction regarding a date had not materialized. And every time a date failed, blame was put on the members. Even after the 1980 acknowledgment by the Society of their role in the 1975 prediction, 15 years later in 1995 they would pass off responsibility once again on the members.
“Bible Students, known since 1931 as Jehovah's Witnesses, also expected that the year 1925 would see the fulfillment of marvelous Bible prophecies. ... More recently, many Witnesses conjectured that events associated with the beginning of Christ's Millennial Reign might start to take place in 1975. Their anticipation was based on the understanding that the seventh millennium of human history would begin then. (Awake, June 22, 1995 p. 9)” [emphasis mine]
Again the details omitted are that the “many Witnesses” who “conjectured… Christ’s Millennial Reign might start to take place in 1975”, based such “conjecture” on the Society’s “understanding that the seventh millennium of human history would begin then.” As mentioned previously, these understandings were set forth in the book Life Everlasting-in Freedom of the Sons of God, and the August 15, 1968 Watchtower article entitled “Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?” As for the Society’s use of the word “conjectured”, it is embarrassingly accurate when it comes to Watch Tower Society “predictions” in light of the definition according to Webster’s Dictionary.
Inference or judgment based on inconclusive or incomplete evidence; guesswork. A statement, an opinion, or a conclusion based on guesswork.
After 1975 failed, renewed emphasis was placed on the “generation” that saw 1914 as “the generation that would not pass away” before the “conclusion of this system of things.” While not a date, it certainly afforded most of us an opportunity to “calculate” just how long these ones could live and feel quite confident that the “end was just around the corner.” The Society provided no shortage of comments on the subject.
If the wicked system of this world survived until the turn of the century (the year 2000), which is highly improbable in view of world trends and the fulfillment of Bible prophecy, there would still be survivors of the World War I generation. However, the fact that their number is dwindling is one more indication that "the conclusion of the system of things" is moving fast toward its end. (The Watchtower, Oct. 15, 1980, p. 31)
"The Bible not only foretold these things, but indicated that they would occur on a world-wide scale. Also, the Bible said that all these things would happen upon the generation that was alive in 1914. Yet what were prominent world leaders foretelling just before 1914? They were saying that conditions promising world peace were never more favorable. Yet the terrible troubles the Bible foretold began right on time, in 1914! In fact, world leaders now say that 1914 was a turning point in history. After drawing attention to the many things that have marked the period from 1914 onward, Jesus said: 'This generation will by no means pass away until all these things [including the end of this system] occur.' (Matthew 24:34, 14) Which generation did Jesus mean? He meant the generation of people who were living in 1914. Those persons yet remaining of that generation are now very old. However, some of them will still be alive to see the end of this wicked system. So of this we can be certain: Shortly now there will be a sudden end to all wickedness and wicked people at Armageddon." (You Can Live Forever In Paradise On Earth, p 154, 1982)
Some of that "generation (of 1914)" could survive until the end of the century. But there are many indications that "the end" is much closer than that! (The Watchtower, March 1, 1984 pp. 18-19)
"These definitions embrace both those born around the time of a historic event and all those alive at that time. If Jesus used 'generation' in that sense and we apply it to 1914, then the babies of that generation are now 70 years old or older. And others alive in 1914 are in their 80's or 90's, a few even having reached a hundred. There are still many millions of that generation alive. Some of them 'will by no means pass away until all things occur." (Watchtower, 15 May, 1984, p. 5)
Prophetic information in the Bible about our day detail the following: ... (4) The survival of at least some of the generation that saw the beginning of "the conclusion of the system of things." (True Peace And Security; 1986; p. 70)
As the year 1994 arrived, many became “concerned” as the time period for a “biblical generation” of 80 years had elapsed since 1914. Right on time, a new “generation” understanding followed in 1995.
[Discussing the generation of Mt 24] "apparently refers to the peoples of earth (now) who see the sign of Christ presence but fail to mend their ways." (Watchtower November 1, 1995 p.12)
And same as every other time before, the Society put the blame on the members for “speculating.”
*** w95 11/1 17 A Time to Keep Awake *** Eager to see the end of this evil system, Jehovah’s people have at times speculated about the time when the “great tribulation” would break out, even tying this to calculations of what is the lifetime of a generation since 1914. However, we “bring a heart of wisdom in,” not by speculating about how many years or days make up a generation, but by thinking about how we “count our days” in bringing joyful praise to Jehovah. (Psalm 90:12). [Emphasis mine]
Even as late as last year, the Society still continues to make statements that would encourage members to “speculate” to maintain a “sense of urgency” among Witnesses. The January 15, 2000 Watchtower page 13, paragraph 18 states:
“Sixth, the number of genuine anointed disciples of Christ is dwindling, though some will evidently still be on earth when the great tribulation begins. Most of the remnant are quite elderly, and over the years the number of those who are truly anointed has been getting smaller. Yet, referring to the great tribulation, Jesus stated: "Unless those days were cut short, no flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones those days will be cut short.” (Matthew 24:21, 22) Evidently, then, some of Christ’s “chosen ones” will still be on earth when the great tribulation begins.”
This can only encourage a “generation style” speculating among Jehovah’s Witnesses, with the members “calculating” just how long these “genuine anointed” (generally thought to be those chosen prior to 1935) can live. Most likely, if history hold’s true, there will be disappointment, “new light,” and blame put on the brothers and sisters for “speculating”.
You wrote "Can you see the point I am trying to make here? Are we servants of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society? Are we servants of the local body of Elders? No! We are dedicated servants of JEHOVAH! So what is the role of the Society, the Congregation, the Elders? They are provisions of JEHOVAH to help us in our service of him. They are a channel through whom he can instruct and direct and organise our activity."
You said that we are not servants of the WTS or the body of Elders but we are servants of Jehovah. We have no problem with that statement. You said that the role of the society is that it is a provision that is used by Jehovah so that He "can instruct us and organise us. ANYONE who stands up and states that they are Gods ONLY channel of communication has to prove this point. It is a very serious statement to make. The society obviously realise this when they printed this:
*** g84 8/22 28 From Our Readers ***
The Catholic Church occupies a very significant position in the world and claims to be the way of salvation for hundreds of millions of people. Any organization that assumes that position should be willing to submit to scrutiny and criticism.
"How successful they are and have been in these tasks! "
This statement we found puzzling. Take a look at these. These are a few that we have seen over the last year and there is more where this lot come from. We have highlighted the important points:
*** The Golden Age, May 1, 1929, p. 502 ***
Thinking people would rather have smallpox than vaccination, because the latter sows the seed of syphilis, cancers, escema, erysipelas, scrofula, consumption, even leprosy and many other loathsome affections. Hence the practice of vaccination is a crime, an outrage and a delusion.
Vaccinations are a violation of the Eternal Covenant God made with Noah.. Quite likely there is some connection between the violation of human blood [vaccines] and the spread of demonism.. sexual immorality .. Vaccination has never saved a human life. It does not prevent smallpox." {GA Feb 4 1931 293-4}***
The Golden Age, Aug. 5, 1931, p. 727 ***
We do well to bear in mind that among the drugs, serums, vaccines, surgical operations, etc., of the medical profession, there is nothing of value save an occasional surgical procedure. Their so-called "science" grew out of Egyptian black magic and has not lost its demonological character.... we shall be in a sad plight when we place the welfare of the race in their hands. [Emphasis added] *** w67 11/15 702-4 Questions from Readers
So brothers and sisters sometimes died because they did not have the necessary vaccinations that they needed. How successful is that? Still staying with the medical side of things:
*** w67 11/15 702-4 Questions from Readers ***
Questions from Readers
• Is there any Scriptural objection to donating one's body for use in medical research or to accepting organs for transplant from such a source?-W. L., U.S.A.
A number of issues are involved in this matter, including the propriety of organ transplants and autopsies. Quite often human emotion is the only factor considered when individuals decide these matters. It would be good, though, for Christians to consider the Scriptural principles that apply, and then make decisions in harmony with these principles so as to be pleasing to Jehovah.-Acts 24:16.
First, it would be well to have in mind that organ transplant operations, such as are now being performed in an attempt to repair the body or extend a life-span, were not the custom thousands of years ago, so we cannot expect to find legislation in the Bible on transplanting human organs. Yet, this does not mean that we have no indication of God's view of such matters.
When Jehovah for the first time allowed humans to eat animal flesh, he explained matters this way to Noah: "A fear of you and a terror of you will continue upon every living creature of the earth and upon every flying creature of the heavens, upon everything that goes moving on the ground, and upon all the fishes of the sea. Into your hand they are now given. Every moving animal that is alive may serve as food for you. As in the case of green vegetation, I do give it all to you. Only flesh with its soul-its blood-you must not eat." (Gen. 9:2-4) That allowance was made to Noah, from whom every person now alive descended. Hence, it applies to all of us.
Humans were allowed by God to eat animal flesh and to sustain their human lives by taking the lives of animals, though they were not permitted to eat blood. Did this include eating human flesh, sustaining one's life by means of the body or part of the body of another human, alive or dead? No! That would be cannibalism, a practice abhorrent to all civilized people. Jehovah clearly made a distinction between the lives of animals and the lives of humans, mankind being created in God's image, with his qualities. (Gen. 1:27) This distinction is evident in His next words. God proceeded to show that man's life is sacred and is not to be taken at will, as may be done with the animals to be used for food. To show disrespect for the sanctity of human life would make one liable to have his own life taken.-Gen. 9:5, 6.
When there is a diseased or defective organ, the usual way health is restored is by taking in nutrients.
The body uses the food eaten to repair or heal the organ, gradually replacing the cells. When men of science conclude that this normal process will no longer work and they suggest removing the organ and replacing it directly with an organ from another human, this is simply a shortcut. Those who submit to such operations are thus living off the flesh of another human. That is cannibalistic. However, in allowing man to eat animal flesh Jehovah God did not grant permission for humans to try to perpetuate their lives by cannibalistically taking into their bodies human flesh, whether chewed or in the form of whole organs or body parts taken from others. ...
Modern science has developed many different types of operations that involve human body parts, some common and usually successful and others experimental and often unsuccessful. It is not our place to decide whether such operations are advisable or warranted from a scientific or medical standpoint. It would be well, though, for Christians faced With a decision in this regard to consider the indication as to God's viewpoint presented in the Scriptures.-Eph. 5:10. ...
It should be evident from this discussion that Christians who have been enlightened by God's Word do not need to make these decisions simply on the basis of personal whim or emotion. They can consider the divine principles recorded in the Scriptures and use these in making personal decisions as they look to God for direction, trusting him and putting their confidence in the future that he has in store for those who love him.-Prov. 3:5, 6; Ps. 119:105. [Empahsis added]
*** g68 6/8 21 ***
There are those, such as the Christian witnesses of Jehovah, who consider all transplants between humans as cannibalism... [Emphasis added]
So it was cannibalism to have a transplant! How successful was that?
The next few quotes are about the society’s position on Nazi Germany. Rutherford had written a “statement of facts” that is printed in the 1934 year book. We have always thought that the society took a strong stance with Hitler but just take a look at this letter:
*** yb 1934 Page 135 ***
The present government of Germany has declared emphatically against Big Business oppressors and in opposition to the wrongful religious influence in the political affairs of the nations. Such is exactly our position. [Emphasis added]
*** yb 1934 Page 136 ***
Instead of being against the principles advocated by the government of Germany, we stand squarely for such principles, and point out that Jehovah God through Christ Jesus will bring about the full realization of these principles and will give to the people peace and prosperity and the greatest desire of every honest heart. [Emphasis added]
*** yb 1934 Page 137 ***
A careful examination of our books and literature will disclose the fact that the very high ideals held and promulgated by the present national government are set forth in and endorsed and strongly emphasized in our publications and show that Jehovah God will see to it that these high ideals in due time will be attained by all persons who love righteousness . . . . [Emphasis added]
*** yb 1934 Page 138 ***
"Let us remind the government and the people of Germany, that it was the League of Nations compact that laid upon the shoulders of the German people the great unjust and unbearable burdens. That the League of Nations compact was not brought forth by the friends of Germany."
So Paul you see that the” Statement of facts” were not quite what we thought that they would be. Read the statement for yourself. But who got the blame for this weak response?
*** yb 1974 Page 111 ***
Many in attendance were disappointed in the "declaration," since in many points it failed to be as strong as the brothers had hoped. Brother Mütze from Dresden, who had worked closely with Brother Balzereit up until that time, accused him later of having weakened the original text. It was not the first time that Brother Balzereit had watered down the clear and unmistakable language of the Society's publications so as to avoid difficulties with governmental agencies.
A large number of brothers refused to adopt it just for this reason. In fact, a former pilgrim brother by the name of Kipper refused to offer it for adoption and another brother substituted. It could not be rightfully said that the declaration was unanimously adopted, even though Brother Balzereit later notified Brother Rutherford that it had been...
...the declaration had been weakened and many of the brothers could not wholeheartedly agree to its adoption...
So Brother Balzereit got blamed for it….or did he?
*** Awake! July 8, 1998 page 14 ***
According to the account in the 1974 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, some German Witnesses were disappointed that the language of the "Declaration" was not more explicit in tone. Had the branch office manager, Paul Balzereit, weakened the text of the document? No, for a comparison of the German and the English texts shows that this is not the case. Evidently, an impression to the contrary was based on the subjective observations of some who were not directly involved in the preparation of the "Declaration." Their conclusions may also have been influenced by the fact that Balzereit renounced his faith only two years later.
You tell us? Lets go on:
*** w72 1/1 31-2 Questions from Readers ***
Questions from Readers
• Do homosexual acts on the part of a married person constitute a Scriptural ground for divorce, freeing the innocent mate to remarry?-U.S.A.
Homosexuality is definitely condemned in the Bible as something that will prevent individuals from gaining God's approval. (1 Cor. 6:9, 10) However, whether an innocent mate would Scripturally be able to remarry after procuring a legal divorce from a mate guilty of homosexual acts must be determined on the basis of what the Bible says respecting divorce and remarriage...
...While both homosexuality and bestiality are disgusting perversions, in the case of neither one is the marriage tie broken. It is broken only by acts that make an individual "one flesh" with a person of the opposite sex other than his or her legal marriage mate.
So how many partners had to still stay married and if they remarried, they were disfellowshipped due to the above rule?Again we ask the question…how successful is that?
Our Black brothers get a mention here:
*** The Golden Age, July 24, 1929, p. 702 ***
Question: Is there anything in the Bible that reveals the origin of the Negro? Answer: It is generally believed that the curse which Noah pronounced upon Canaan was the origin of the Black race. Certain it is that when Noah said, ‘Cursed be Canaan, a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren,’ he pictured the future of the Colored race. They have been and are a race of servants, but now in the dawn of the twentieth century, we are all coming to see this matter of service in its true light and to find that the only real joy in life is in serving others; not bossing them. There is no servant in the world as good as a good Colored servant, and the joy that he gets from rendering faithful service is one of the purest joys there is in the world.”
The next few quotes are from the same publication, but can you spot the differences?
*** w89 1/1 12 "The Hand of Jehovah Was With Them" ***
[as originally published in Watchtower magazine]
The apostle Paul was spearheading the Christian missionary activity. He was also laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our 20th century. [Emphasis added]
Again are we date setting here? No because fortunately it was changed!
*** w89 1/1 12 "The Hand of Jehovah Was With Them" ***
[as it appears on Watchtower bound volumes & CD-ROMs]
The apostle Paul was spearheading the Christian missionary activity. He was also laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our day. [Emphasis added]
*** tr (Truth book) pg.9 1 Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand! ***
[as published prior to 1975]
Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is "a period of unequaled instability, unequaled violence." And he warned: "I know enough of what is going on to assure you that, in fifteen years from today, this world is going to be too dangerous to live in." [Emphasis added]
This quote in the “Truth” book would have been very comforting to the pre 1975 brothers so when 1975 came and went, what did the “Truth” say then?
*** tr (Truth book) pg.9 1 Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand! ***
[as published after to 1975]
Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is "a period of unequaled instability, unequaled violence." Based on what he knew was then going on in the world, it was his conclusion that soon "this world is going to be too dangerous to live in." [Emphasis added]
This is very interesting. Johannes Greber is used to support our translation of the Bible:
*** w61 1/1 30 Was There a Resurrection? ***
[Johannes Greber cited for support for Matthew 27:52-53.]
Nor is the New World Translation alone in rendering these verses thus. A modern German translation reads quite similarly: "Tombs were laid open, and many bodies of those buried were tossed upright. In this posture they projected from the graves and were seen by many who passed by the place on their way back to the city."-Matt. 27:52, 53. [Emphasis added
*** w62 9/15 554 "The Word"-Who Is He? According to John ***
[Johannes Greber cited for support for John 1:1.]
5 But most controversial of all is the following reading of John 1:1, 2: "The Word was in the beginning, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god. This Word was in the beginning with God." This reading is found in The New Testament in An Improved Version, published in London, England, in 1808. Similar is the reading by a former Roman Catholic priest: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god. This was with God in the beginning. Everything came into being through the Word, and without it nothing created sprang into existence." (John 1
27:52-53.]
Event Clarifies Bible
• The recent Guatemalan earthquake affected even some of those already dead. "Time" magazine reports that "several mourners who went to bury their dead in family plots found that the coffins of long-dead relatives had been uncovered by the quake." Something similar occurred during an earthquake in the Jerusalem area at Jesus' death. At that time, dead bodies were customarily placed in vaults or chambers cut from Palestine's soft limestone rock, often in hillsides. A report in the Bible, as translated by Johannes Greber, says that when Jesus died, "the earth quaked, and the rocks were shattered. Tombs were laid open, and many bodies of those buried there were tossed upright. In this posture they projected from the graves and were seen by many who passed by the place on their way back to the city." Hence, rather than a resurrection, as some Bible translations imply, there appears to have been merely an exposure of the dead to observers, as in Guatemala.-Matt. 27:51-53. [Emphasis Added]
*** w75 10/15 640 Questions from Readers ***
[Johannes Greber cited for support for Matthew 27:52-53.]
Without wresting the Greek grammar, a translator can render Matthew 27:52, 53 in a way that suggests that a similar exposing of corpses resulted from the earthquake occurring at Jesus' death. Thus the translation by Johannes Greber (1937) renders these verses: "Tombs were laid open, and many bodies of those buried there were tossed upright. In this posture they projected from the graves and were seen by many who passed by the place on their way back to the city."-Compare the New World Translation. [Emphasis Added]
Can’t see any problem with this Paul? Well take a look at this quote which is dated before the above quotes about Greber:
*** w55 10/1 603 Part 3: What Do the Scriptures Say About "Survival After Death"? ***
[Johannes Greber identified as Spiritist]
It comes as no surprise that one Johannes Greber, a former Catholic clergyman, has become a spiritualist and has published the book entitled "Communication with the Spirit World, Its laws and Its Purpose." (1932, Macoy Publishing Company, New York) In its Foreword he makes the typical misstatement: "The most significant spiritualistic book is the Bible; for its principal contents hinge upon the messages of the beyond to those existing in the present." [Emphasis Added]
*** w56 2/15 110-1 Triumphing over Wicked Spirit Forces ***
[Johannes Greber identified as Spiritist]
10 Says Johannes Greber in the introduction of his translation of The New Testament, copyrighted in 1937: "I myself was a Catholic priest, and until I was forty-eight years old had never as much as believed in the possibility of communicating with the world of God's spirits. The day came, however, when I involuntarily took my first step toward such communication, and experienced things that shook me to the depths of my soul. . . . My experiences are related in a book that has appeared in both German and English and bears the title, Communication with the Spirit-World: Its Laws and Its Purpose." (Page
"The most significant spiritualistic book is the Bible." Under this impression Greber endeavors to make his New Testament translation read very spiritualistic.
11 Spiritualism claims that there are good spirits and bad spirits and that it does not want to have anything to do with the bad spirits but tries to communicate only with the good spirits. At 1 John 4:1-3 the Bible says: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God. And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world." Greber's translation of these verses reads: "My dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to learn whether they come from God. For many false spirits have emerged from the abyss and gone out into the world, and are speaking through human mediums. This is how you can find out whether a spirit comes from God: every spirit who confesses that Jesus Christ appeared on earth as a man, comes from God. While every spirit who seeks to destroy belief in Jesus as our Lord incarnated does not come from God, but is sent by the adversary of Christ. You have been told that such spirits would come, and they are already appearing in the world." Very plainly the spirits in which ex-priest Greber believes helped him in his translation. [Emphasis Added]
Now Paul you are saying to yourself that this is just a mistake but remember you are the one that said “What a fine job that they have done”. So what about the accuracy of the watchtower publications?
*** w59 10/1 607 Questions from Readers ***
The literature published by the Watch Tower Society is published in the name of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. Regardless of who may write certain articles, they are checked carefully by members of the governing body before they are published; so they are properly viewed as coming from the Society. [Emphasis added
Do we need to say anymore? We found this quote very interesting:
*** w54 3/15 163-4 Aid to Understanding ***
Jehovah uses a visible organization, entrusts the Biblical truths to it, and expects it to abide by and clarify these truths to others. Many religious organizations today claim to be this visible organization of God, but by their fruits they show they are not. All along there have been such false pretenders, who have been exposed by faithful priests and prophets before the time of Christ, by Jesus when he came and by his apostles afterward, and by his footstep followers even to our day.
Today the facts of the past few decades show Jehovah has been and is using the Watch Tower Society and Jehovah’s witnesses as a teaching organization, anointed witnesses who make up the promised “faithful and discreet slave” appointed to give spiritual “food at the proper time.”
So can we ask what facts are they? As we stated earlier, anyone who makes the claim that they are Jehovah’s channel has to be able to prove it. So how has the society “proved” that Jehovah is using them? Not one of their predictions has proved true. Not one. In light of all the forgoing, how can this statement be made in good conscience by the Faithful and Discreet Slave?
WT 6/1/97 p.14--“Modesty on the part of the faithful and discreet slave class prevents it from presumptuously running ahead and wildly speculating about things that are unclear. The slave class strives to avoid being dogmatic. How reassuring it is to know that the channel Jehovah is using today does not do so! It is both faithful and discreet.
Consider - Has the Organisation EVER backed away from changing their stand on any issue where increased understanding has shown that a change is necessary? Has the society EVER claimed to be infallible?
The record shows the Society do claim to be prophets and Witnesses must accept “present truths” as though they are infallible, or be disfellowshipped. Consider these Watchtower quotes.
*** w72 4/1 197 'They Shall Know that a Prophet Was Among Them' ***
This "prophet" was not one man, but was a body of men and women. It was the small group of footstep followers of Jesus Christ, known at that time as International Bible Students. Today they are known as Jehovah's Christian witnesses... Of course, it is easy to say that this group acts as a "prophet" of God. It is another thing to prove it. The only way that this can be done is to review the record. [Emphasis added]
*** w59 5/1 269 Attain Completeness in the New World Society ***
7 To hold to the headship of Christ, it is therefore necessary to obey the organization that he is personally directing. Doing what the organization says is to do what he says. Resisting the organization is to resist him.[emphasis added]
"True, there have been those in times past who predicted an "end" to the world, even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The 'end' did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying. Why? What was missing? Missing from such people were God's truths and the evidence that He was using and guiding them.'' (Awake, Oct. 8, 1968) [emphasis added]
There is no doubt that the society feels that is being used by Jehovah. As stated in the September 1, 1989 Watchtower page 19, that “Only Jehovah's Witnesses, those of the anointed remnant and the "great crowd," as a united organization under the protection of the Supreme Organizer, have any Scriptural hope of surviving the impending end of this doomed system dominated by Satan the Devil.”
The claim that “everyone will be destroyed” who is not associated with God’s “spirit-directed” organization, his sole “channel” for dispensing “spiritual food” and “new light” to mankind greatly troubles us. It troubles us, not because imperfect men with good intentions can’t make honest errors, but that when such claim to be led by, and following God’s perfect spirit, as his exclusive “channel” or “mouthpiece”, when individuals must accept whatever teachings come from that “channel” as from God, there is absolutely no room for error. To make such claims, then require millions of members to believe and teach such doctrines and predictions as “truth”, however sincere, then reverse our understanding, claiming “new light” makes God’s direction and spirit appear less than perfect. Either the direction from God’s spirit is imperfect, or men are resisting the spirit by going ahead of what God has revealed by means of it. This is either blasphemy or apostasy.
Instead of saying something like “we really don’t know at the present time and cannot comment with certainty on the matter” or “it is wise not to speculate regarding such and such”, the Society has made dogmatic statements, statements which had to be accepted and taught by members, which were later shown to be in gross error. A simple example of this is with regard to whether the people of Sodom and Gomorrah will receive a resurrection. In our opinion, whether these people would receive a resurrection or not is a non-issue, but the Society obviously felt they had an obligation to shed some “light” on the matter.
• The Watchtower of 7/1879 p 8 says the Sodomites will be resurrected.
• The Watchtower of 6/1/52 p 338 says the men of Sodom will not be resurrected.
• The Watchtower of 8/1/65 p 479 says the men of Sodom will be resurrected.
• The Watchtower of 6/1/1988 p 31 says men of Sodom will not be resurrected.
• Live forever 1982 edition says men of Sodom will be resurrected.
• Live forever 1989 version says Men of Sodom will not be resurrected.
• Statements in both versions are found on page 179. Insight Vol. 2 page 985 says men of Sodom will be resurrected.
• Revelation book page 273 says the men of Sodom will not be resurrected.
We are confused here XXX. If Jehovah is using the society, then how do they keep getting things wrong? Why is Jehovah said to using them impart spiritual truths but these “truths” then turn out to be wrong and are adjusted? Why the “flip flop” on issues? The scripture in Proverbs 4 is commonly used to prove the “new light” doctrine. Have a read of the whole of Chapter 4 and ask yourself what it is talking about please? Is it not a father talking to his son about the way to go and lead his life? The above example is a non important point, but what about the transplant issue? Up to 1969 our brothers were not allowed to have transplants and many died because they followed the directions of the governing body despite there being no directive from the Bible on this matter. To disobey the governing body would have meant that they would have been disfellowshipped. But most chose death over disfellowshipping. Then in 1969 the directive was changed. So these brothers died in vain. Now you may say that they died faithful and will be remembered in the resurrection, but just imagine that XXX or XXXX had died because of not having a much needed transplant and then the directive was changed soon after? How would you feel then?
“Experts” have always challenged the bible's accuracy on a multitude of issues. To date, most such challenges have eventually been demonstrated to be groundless as newer evidence comes to light proving that Jehovah's inspired word was right all along (as we always knew it was). And so, on the questions you have raised, the society has decided to rely on the biblical chronology in preference to current secular views, and have explained clearly their reasons for doing so in various articles and publications. This seems to me to be the wisest course."
XXX, if you reread the letter that we sent you, you will see that the Bible and secular history are in perfect agreement. This is the point that we were trying to show the brothers in Bethel. Please read the letter carefully.
"What really is the worst case scenario here? I personally believe-that secular historians are wrong again in this case."
XXX, to be honest, it is not what we “personally believe” that is important. It is what is true. There are still people that believe that the world is flat and are waiting for the “evidence” to prove this and to counteract the thousands of photographs taken from the shuttle that show the world is prove the world is round. Archaeologists know so much about the Neo Babylonian period as we have so many artefacts from the period. We are missing twenty years in the King lists and we are not going to find it as it is not there. Why do you think many congregations run trips to the British Museum? It is because they are the world leaders in Archaeological evidence. Are you now going to dismiss some evidence just because it does not fit in with our belief system?
"But suppose that the society has messed up it's calculations by 20 years. So what? We are not serving Jehovah just because Jerusalem was destroyed in 607 BCE, nor simply because the kingdom began ruling in 1914 or is it now 1934? We are serving Jehovah because we love him and are deeply grateful for everything he has done and will do for us personally. He allowed his MOST treasured Son to suffer and die for our benefit! He LOVES us! "
We offer you these quotes and let you make up your own mind and conscience:
*** g87 9/8 8 Future Prospects for Protestantism-And for You! ***
“In religion only one thing is of essential importance, that it be true.” This agrees with what Jesus said: “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”-John 4:24; see also John 8:32; 14:6; 16:13. Are you sure that everything your church teaches is really true?
*** g87 9/8 10-11 Future Prospects for Protestantism-And for You! ***
If Your Church Fails to Act, Will You? If, after making an honest investigation, you are less than pleased with what you see, do more than just complain. A journalist, while commenting on Karl Barth’s statement that a church is its members, logically concluded: “Church members . . . are responsible for what the church says and does.” So ask yourself: Am I willing to share responsibility for everything my church says and does? Can I really be proud of having all its members as spiritual brothers? While considering these questions, do not overlook the significance of Revelation 18:4, 8. Speaking of the world empire of false religion, displeasing to God, it says: “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues . . . [for] her plagues [shall] come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.” You may sincerely believe that your church is no part of false religion that God says he will soon destroy. But your life depends upon being 100 percent sure. Are you? False religion has no future, nor do those who support it. True religion will last forever, along with those who practice it. Make your choice accordingly.
"And, really, would you want to be even associated with a religion that had not been honest with you?" (Is This Life all There is? p.46)
Have not the Societies views on ANY/ALL subjects represented the most accurate understanding available at the time, any errors have ALWAYS been corrected by JEHOVAH in his own time and way. Where else could we go anyway? There is no “Better” organisation! Here ONLY is where there are “sayings of life”!
Jesus said that he had the sayings of life. You quoted this verse in the first paragraph of your letter to us. “Where are you going to go?” has been the question that we have been asked. Herein lies the misconception”. How will you be saved without being associated with “God’s organization?” is another that we have been asked? The truth of the matter is that we too, answer as Peter did when he said “Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.” Notice “WHOM” as opposed to “WHERE”. Along these lines, it’s interesting what Charles Russell wrote in 1895:
“Beware of “organization." It is wholly un-necessary. The Bible will be the only rules you need. Do not seek to bind other consciences, and do not permit others to bind yours. Believe and obey so far as you can understand Gods word today, and so continue to growing in grace and knowledge day by day.” (Watchtower, 1895, p. 216.)
It’s interesting that Russell recognized the pitfalls of human organizations claiming “divine authority.” He also made this statement:
"There is no organization today clothed with such divine authority to imperiously command mankind. There is no organization doing this today; though we are well aware that many of them in theory claim that they ought to be permitted to do so; and many more would like to do so. This was the fatal mistake into which the Church began to fall in the second century; and the effort to realize this false conception culminated in the boastful, imperious counterfeiting of the coming Kingdom in Papacy, which for centuries sought to dominate the world, by claimed “divine authority”. This idea more or less pervaded and poisoned the ideas of all the Protestant “clergy” as well; who copying Papacy’s false ideas of the Church, claim also that the Church of Christ is now organized, though they now make less boastful claims to “divine authority” to teach and rule mankind in general, that the Papacy does. (Watchtower, 1893, page 266.)
So thanks again XXX for the letter and hope that you read our comments. If you need clarification on anything then please contact us again. In the meantime, if you are ever in the XXXXXXX area, then please pop in and see us. You are always welcome.
Take care,
The Onions
