WTC has never shied away from being considered a prophet. I have a talk outline that specifically calls the WT magazine a prophet. They dance around the meaning of the word “prophet” when challenged on failed declarations, but openly declare that they meet a limited interpretation of being a prophet. Of this there is no doubt.
i have never criticized WTC for having a sense of urgency about the end of the system. The problem is that they have put dates to that end (numerous times) and strongly declared that it is near as in less than a year - for MANY years.
Their cry of wolf is irresponsible and disingenuous. As a result, their followers make terrible life decisions and a large number have ceased to have any regard for a divine power, losing their trust in all religion. THAT is the fallout from making false prophesies.
Why they continue to do this is obvious but I will state the reasons anyway:
1. It is a distraction from all the problems that the Org has created for itself.
2. It stimulates giving $$.
3. Followers re-focus on the Org instead of their own life problems.
4. The hysteria hypes the Org as having the inside scoop on matters of divine importance when they are simply self-appointed high school graduates at the helm of a corporate conglomerate with 4-5 million followers.
I am no prophet but I think the gig is just about up for WTC. They will not be able to continue with shrinking donations and increasing legal challenges. At present, their nose is just above the water line.
