Yeah, St Ann, Robson, Wobble, glenster, and Hoping4Change, I understand that "religious exclusivism" is a vital component of the Judaeo-Christian religious faith[s]...
As glenster's first link states: "Exclusivism is most prevalent in Abrahamic religions. In Jewish tradition, it manifests in certain interpretations of the concept of the "chosen people", in which anyone who does not accept the teachings of Jewish monotheism is excluded from the messianic "world to come." In Christianity, religious exclusivism is seen in the teachings of the Catholic Church and the teachings of several denominations that only those who adhere to the true faith will reach Heaven, while those outside of the true church will go to Hell. Exclusivism is seen in Islam in the acceptance of sincere Jews, Christians, and Sabians as people "of the Book" along with Muslims, but the rejection of polytheist—as well as impious Jews and Christians—as "infidels" who have no part in Allah or paradise. ..."
THAT is the attitude that causes me to view "Johnny-come-lately" Middle Eastern religions with [ahem...] disgust and contempt... Intolerance is an INTEGRAL part of such religions...
The mainstream Christian religions have softened this stance, quite a bit... (At least, nowadays... We all know what snits they were when the first started out, though!!)
BUUUUT - the JWs are still clinging to a rigid, fundamentalist interpretation of such statements of exclusivity in the bible...
That's why I started this link. Their superficial 'softening' was - imho - merely another form of dishonesty regarding their religion's true structure, to entice the unwary and naive potential convert...
Zid