Does the faithful and discreet slave endorse independent groups of Witnesses who meet together to engage in Scriptural research or debate? — Matt.24:45, 47.
No, it does not. And yet, in various parts of the world, a few associates of our organization have formed groups to do independent research on Bible-related subjects. Some have pursued an independent group study of Biblical Hebrew and Greek so as to analyze the accuracy of the New World Translation. Others explore scientific subjects related to the Bible. They have created Web sites and chat rooms for the purpose of exchanging and debating their views. They have also held conferences and produced publications to present their findings and to supplement what is provided at our Christian meetings and through our literature.
Of course not! As the Bible says, "since 1919 only the Faithful Slave in NY is mandated to dispense Bible truth". Independent thought constitutes sin and leads to apostasy. Bible research will only lead to agreeing with Babylon the Great's doctrines within 3 years.