The group definitely relies on a constant stream of recruits coming in WHO ARE NEW TO THE MESSAGE. It's these folks who bring in enthusiasm, cause they haven't lived through the years of the same ol', same ol'. Even if the message seems kind of weird, being based on some far-out 1914 mumbo-jumbo, the seeming chaos presented by the media still helps clinch the deal.
I understand this perspective, but have doubts about new recruits lasting impact.
I was a new recruit in the late 90's and did not last one decade in the organization. The main reason was because the idealistic picture of the organization I had before I became a member dealt with the reality of what the organization was after I became a member. I went right into pioneer work but became extremely frustrated because I did not the see excitement I had as a new member within those who had been JWs for many years. Their lack of enthusiasm eventually made me give up my idealism. I can't help but wonder about how many other converts out there meet with the same disappointment I did.
The organization can bring people in, but how do they maintain that excitement? I doubt that they can. There is nothing that people can grab ahold of that continues them to be active in the faith. You come in with lots of excitement only to realize that everybody else is doing half of what you thought they were.
I realized that most all JWs viewed it as a routine, not as the exciting and thrilling lifestyle they tell you it is. Many JWs make very little sacrifice to be JW, rather they fit it around their regularly scheduled activities.
As for your assessment as to what will happen when new members don't come in fast enough to replace old members, I think there is a possibly that they may be reaching that point faster than any realize.
...OUTLAW