Do you ever wonder what influence we ex-JW’s have on other people?
Consider this. If you examine current JW's and ex-members, how many were actually converted to Witnessdom by someone knocking at the door? The WTS' own stats show how ineffective the door-to-door work is yet converts are made at quite sizeable rates at times and in some places. How many though were actually converted through family members and friends? I bet that is how the majority converted or, if not, were raised as JW’s (like my 5 siblings and I because our mom was called on.)
In comparison to the good things I said about JW’s when I was in and the limited effect that it had I think I have a much larger effect when I warn others about the Watchtower Society. My son isn’t going to become a JW. I doubt my wife would ever join, nor any of her family, nor her friends and none of their relatives either. When my wife’s friend 150 miles away asks JW’s who come calling to explain why anyone has to join their religion (they’re the only ones saved) or how women are treated in their religion, or whether they change their doctrines constantly, she asks these because my wife related the things she learned from me. I’ve noticed that people are far more inquisitive about the beliefs of JW’s when they ask an ex-member rather than a member. I think the safety factor of not attempting to convert plays a big part here.
With the population of ex-JW’s numbering in the millions what effect does this have on the converting work of the WTS? I would guess at least an equal effect to the Internet in recent years. What do you think?
Thirdson
'To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing'