Please see the study article, “Their Refuge–A Lie!” in the June 1, 1991 Watchtower, noting paragraphs 1, 10 and 11. Paragraph 1 calls Christendom “that apostate religious organization.” Why apostate?
Paragraph 10 asserts that “she insinuates herself into the favor of the political leaders of the nations–this despite the Bible’s warning that friendship with the world is enmity with God.” To support that assertion, paragraph 11 quotes an unnamed “recent book” which reports that “no fewer than 24 Catholic organizations are represented at the UN.” How were such organizations represented at the UN?
The unnamed book quoted in paragraph 11 is New Genesis by Robert Muller. (See attachement #1.) The sentence immediately preceding the portion quoted by Watchtower states, “All major world religions are accredited to the United Nations as non-governmental organizations.” Why did Watchtower omit that significant statement?
In the same year as that 1991 study article, the Watchtower Society also became accredited to the United Nations as a non-governmental organization, and served as publicity agents for the UN for the next 10 years–reapplying each consecutive year–until the alliance was exposed by the Guardian newspaper in October 2001, whereupon Watchtower withdrew its membership. (Watch Tower admits its affiliation to its Branch Committee in attachment #2.)
Notice that Watchtower’s letter refers to the Guardian article as “published allegations by opposers,” yet later states that “we are grateful that this matter was brought to our attention.” No mention, however, is made of the June 1, 1991 study article.
According to a public statement issued the UN’s Department of Public Information (UN/DPI), registered NGO’s had to “share the ideals of the UN charter” and “have a demonstrated interest in United Nations issues and a proven ability to reach large or specialized audiences.” (See attachment #3.)
What is Watchtower policy regarding individual JWs who do what their organization did?
“A person might renounce his place in the Christian congregation by his actions, such as becoming part of an organization whose objective is contrary to the Bible, and, hence, is under judgment by Jehovah God. So if one who is a Christian chose to join those who are disapproved of God, it would be fitting for the congregation to acknowledge by a brief announcement that he has disassociated himself and is no longer one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.” (Sept. 15, 1981, Watchtower, p. 23, par. 15)
“In joining the YMCA as a member a person accepts or endorses the general objectives and principles of the organization. . .Hence for one of Jehovah’s Witnesses to become a member of a so-called “Christian” association would amount to apostasy.” (Jan. 1, 1979, Watchtower p. 31)
According to the standard by which it judged Christendom to be apostate, and in light of Jesus’ words at Mathew 12:37 that “by your words you will be condemned,” should the Watchtower Society be viewed as an apostate religious organization?
