A nice find if you want to dispute the new "Donation" arrangement. (page 2)

Oubliette

DD, understood. Let me know how it plays!

I was planning an answer along these lines, but if you read the exodus verse fully, it's God telling the Israelites TO TAKE UP A COLLECTION, to donate, it's not saying that they'll build a temple IF people HAPPEN to donate enough to get it done.

I know the idea is that it should be willingly , from the heart, not a forced amount and all that, but I'm struggling how to word it. After all, the Israelites DID tithe as well....

I suppose it's fairly easy to comment about the difference between Catholics and the collection plate, mormons and the tithing, and our willing attitude, but I think the point could be lost , over peoples heads.

disposable hero of hypocrisy

The "who are doing Jehovah's will" brochure (lesson 24) is a much more up to date quote to use, I agree that as soon as you use anything past, say, the eighties, you're immediately ignored as we've 'moved on' since then...

piztjw

Obviously the GB has gotten "new light" because Jehovah™ is suddenly short of cash and realized "false religion" has a good thing going for themselves by tithing its members.

Not trying to be disagreeable, but the GB can STILL claim they don't tithe. With a tithe strictly speaking being one-tenth all they have to do is suggest demand 9.9% or less..or 10.1% or more. There...easy as can be, "We don't "tithe"."

And of course no collection plates are ever passed...just slips of paper to "voluntarily" promise to contribute the money they suggest demand from you.

DATA-DOG

Good point. As I said on another thread, they can "resolution" you to death, but never "tithe." Who needs tithing when you speak for Jeehoober?? Just have a "special resolution" when you need cash. Sometimes the sheep need a good kick in the ass to remember who they are dealing with. When the average amount contributed drops, then it's time for guilt inducing articles and reminders.

I think that my "heartfelt" highlight will help my wife. Then I will strategically leave all my "research" lying around..

DD

DATA-DOG

Well, I just spoke to friend who must remain anonymous. I mentioned my plan for the Bible Highlights and they recommended that I DO NOT do it. I asked, " Why? will it bring too much unwanted attention my way?" They said, "YES." So I asked again. " So you feel very strongly that I should NOT give my comment?" They repeated again, "YES, too much heat." So, since I am fading, I will be heeding that advice.

So I think I will continue to be patient and watch from the sidelines. If my wife acts troubled I will answer her questions. I will, of course, be telling the wife that she can use her work money in whatever way she wants, but the money that I earn is NOT going to the WTBTS.

DD

stillin

A little devil's advocate here: the local Kingdom Halls aren't franchises, established to make any sort of profit. They are subsidiaries of the Great Watchtower Society. As such, they are subject to the bylaws of the "mother Organization." We joke about trademarked slogans and terms that are used by the Witnesses, but in fact, those terms are peculiar to the cult and are the property of the Organization.

Are we being naive to think otherwise? If surplus funds are needed by the Organization for whatever purpose, whether it's to pay off lawsuits or to expand activities into new fields, why shouldn't the local congregations be called to task and pitch in for the "greater good?"

Sure, it's a business move. So what? It's a business. All that's missing is the taxes.

JustVisting

@Data-Dog, you go dog! Give your "heartfelt" comment. Please see my topic, "This week's Bible reading". Your diligent WT research has turned up an obscure yet classic quote that will hit 'em square in the mouth. I love it! When I referred to the 1879 Russell gem about never soliciting men for donations, etc., etc. during the Bible highlights, the elder said good comment, but I bet his mind was reeling. Or maybe not

A nice find if you want to dispute the new "Donation" arrangement.

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