One more lesson that is filled with broad, vague generalizations that tap into existing beliefs of the brotherhood.
Persecution? Bring it on!! makes us happy; proves we are christians, oops, worshipers of jehovah.
Dunderheaded comment of the day:
"Worldly people may have their own roundabout way of having zeal and believe they are doing god's will"
Wow. The arrogance of the average witness is breathtaking. This idea coexists in their head with the subconscious realization that NO ONE we speak to listens, most are irritated and most know more about and are more connected with Jesus than we ever will be!!
More references to "true" righteousness, as opposed to garden variety righteousness. Either something is righteous or it is not, right?
And, most sickening to me, references again by some commenters to the Nazi persecution. I know there was persecution, but when will they admit to and ask forgiveness for trying to suck up to Hitler in 1934?? Never, of course.
To top off this day, I had to sit through a talk about modern day good news. The speaker is a rich, self righteous elder from my old congo. His schtick is to become very familiar with the audience, and then reason them to death.
Today he had props from the early days of the org: an old good news brochure, a phonograph and record by Rutherford, etc etc even a slide from the Photodrama of creation. Lots of nods and kudos to CTR, with no mention of what a fruitcake he was. Lots of mentions of 1879, with no mention of our modern day beliefs being warmed over Millerism and SDA. His WT comments focused on not just the worldly bad influences (persecution) but those in the congo that might not be as enthusiastic as us!!
All in all, I left with a headache. I make less and less meetings, and hate them more with each one.
I need to quit going soon, before I become an atheist.