A Concerned Elder Speaks (page 3)

pontoon

Look, miseryloveselders, the Borg doesn't believe God will provide. That is why they rely on their teams of HIGHLY EDUCATED LAWYERS.

If you believe that this is the time of the end and we are deep into it. This is the viewpoint of Elders whether they like it or not. Then everything is geared to saving lives and telling people about the last days that started in 1914. Not looking for an easy life.

baltar447

"The Finger", the problem is that what's good for the society isn't good for the rank and file. If they need educated people, they educate them yet at the same time browbeat the R&F with this crap. They make long term plans and yet chastise us for doing the same.

Franklin Massey

"Also generally after KM school is finished, the branch will send a "recap" letter to the BOE's."

The elders mentioned in the account above were hoping that the follow-up letter would downplay the hardline stance presented at the school. Perhaps headquarters would hear of the murmurings and realize they need to do some damage control. If that happened, it would probably be one of those, "Some brothers attending the school misunderstood the loving spiritual direction dispensed..."

"It's like they WANT fewer elders and servants."

You're close. They want obedient followers. Any brother that would question their decisions or have complaint against policy is a risk. It's possible that they would view such men as an acceptable loss.

Are they becoming more extreme? I thought the latest was no 4 year university, or living on campus, etc.

That is the latest published direction available to all who get the WT magazine. You'll notice, as was mentioned above, that the assemblies and conventions have taken a more negative stand on higher education. The KM school went a step further. At our school, after telling the brothers about the qualifications review, the speaker said something like, "Don't think that you can find away around the Society's direction." That comment was one that really upset our CoBoE (thanks Mis for the correct abbreviation).

Just out of curiosity, what is the WTBS going to do if half their elders quit or get forced out over this?

The sad part is that a lot of these affected brothers will not respectfully stand up for their rights. They will do as told.

One thing that should be mentioned in all fairness is that an elder will not be immediately deleted for sending his kid to school. It will vary by locality but all that is promised as of now is a review of qualifications. If the review goes well and the brother is decided to be in good standing he will remain in his position. The problem here is the imposed threat. Many will not even want to risk having to undergo the review. Therefore, the fear tactic keeps them under control. No college for the kids, no loss of elder, Big Brother wins.

The Finger

It depends whether or not you made a dedication to God or whether you fibbed.

If you are in the JW's then you accept the spiritual food and that means that the end is close and the only thing that takes 1st place is the full time preaching. Not an education.

baltar447

A dedication to God is fine. Where in the bible does it say we have to NOT get a good education?

Franklin Massey

Finger, we're not talking about people who are chasing big dreams and fortune. We're talking about sincere spiritual brothers who are having a hard time serving their congregations because of the overwhelming pressures of a tough economic system. They look back on the choices they made and hope to help their children avoid some of the mistakes that they have made. For many JWs, the lack of education has forced them into menial jobs that don't pay the bills. When looking for a job, applications and resumes without degrees get passed over in favor of those with more education. That's the reality that we live with. It's an expensive world, even for those of simple means. Rather than work 60 hours a week at a low wage, a degree would allow someone to work 35 hours a week at a much higher wage, leaving more time for spiritual activity and less time worrying about how to keep the lights on.

pirata

At the Kingdom Ministry School I attended they said the Elders qualifications would be reviewed.

They gave a list of requirements, that if met, would not mean ineligibility for an Elder (ie. person going has spiritual goals, attends meetings, regular in ministry, etc).

@Franklin Massey, PM me if you want more details on the exact wording used in that part.

The Finger

Franklin Massey,

Either you believe the end is near or you dont and if you dont then you do not support the view of the GB.

As a Christian is different its not the same baptism.

miseryloveselders

It depends whether or not you made a dedication to God or whether you fibbed.

If you are in the JW's then you accept the spiritual food and that means that the end is close and the only thing that takes 1st place is the full time preaching. Not an education.

Interesting.......so let me ask you something. If a person in 1969 was was twenty years of age, and didn't take the position you have, or at least the position you're posting, was the end so close for that person that it would have been foolish of them to pursue higher education?

A Concerned Elder Speaks

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