How Much of Russell and Rutherford is Left?

by NotFormer 10 Replies latest watchtower beliefs

  • Anony Mous
    Anony Mous

    A lot of the 'basic' doctrine is actually pre-Russell. Jehovah's Witnesses originated out of Adventists of the Millerite branch. The emphasis on the imminent (or invisible) second coming, annihiliationism (Armageddon stuff), claims of spiritistic influence on leadership, prophecy that keeps moving around to fit modern events is not at all unique to JWs.

    The core doctrines of Russellism specifically are still around:

    - Non-existence of Hell and the 144,000
    - (Lack of) the Divinity of Christ - although that seems to be even more emphasized today with the GB replacing Jesus.
    - The (lack of) personhood in the Holy Spirit - again, something the GB seems to be laying more emphasis that THEY are solely influenced by Holy Spirit
    - The non-belief in the trinity

    What has been completely rejected since are the pyramid teachings and the pro-zionist teachings. Russell went as far as telling Jews they should not convert to Christianity since they were a special people already.

    As far as Rutherford, Rutherford didn't teach anything specifically other than the complete opposition to other religions and the state. Those ideals seem to have weakened in more modern times, having the WTBTS join UN etc. The other thing I think Rutherford introduced was the idea that Jesus didn't die on a cross but on a stake. Although Rutherford rejected the Russell interpretation that Russell was the "Faithful and Discreet Slave" which is an idea the WTBTS has taken up again since.

Share this

Google+
Pinterest
Reddit