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Part of a series on
Jehovah's Witnesses
Overview Organizational structure Governing Body Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society Corporations History Bible Student movement Leadership dispute Splinter groups Doctrinal development Unfulfilled predictions Demographics By country
Beliefs Practices God's name 144,000 Salvation Eschatology Faithful and discreet slave Memorial of Jesus' Death Blood Discipline Hymns (Hymnal) Literature The Watchtower Awake! New World Translation Bibliography Places Kingdom Hall Gilead School
People Watch Tower presidents W. H. Conley C. T. Russell J. F. Rutherford N. H. Knorr F. W. Franz M. G. Henschel D. A. Adams R. L. Ciranko Formative influences William Miller Henry Grew G. W. Stetson George Storrs N. H. Barbour J. N. Darby Notable former members R. V. Franz O. R. Moyle Notable scholars George Chryssides James Penton Zoe Knox
Criticism Handling child sex abuse Unfulfilled predictions
Opposition Persecution in Nazi Germany Supreme Court cases by country
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The beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the Bible teachings of its founder, Charles Taze Russell and his successors, Joseph Franklin Rutherford and Nathan Homer Knorr. Since 1976 they have also been based on decisions made at closed meetings of the religion's Governing Body. These teachings are disseminated through The Watchtower magazine and other publications of Jehovah's Witnesses, and at conventions and congregation meetings.

Jehovah's Witnesses teach that the present age of human existence is about to be terminated with the direct intervention of God, who will use Jesus Christ to fully establish his heavenly government over earth, destroying existing human governments and non-Witnesses, and creating a cleansed society of true worshipers. They see their mission as primarily evangelical (disseminating "good news"), proselytizing to as many converts as possible in the remaining time before Armageddon. All members of the religion are expected to take an active part in preaching what they refer to as "the truth".

They endeavor to remain separate from secular society, which is regarded as a place of moral contamination and under the control of Satan the Devil, refusing any political and military activity and limiting social contact with non-Witnesses. Members practice a strict moral code, forbidding adultery, premarital sex and homosexuality. Drug abuse, smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol are prohibited, as are blood transfusions. Discipline within congregations is maintained by a system of judicial committees, which have the power to expel members who breach organizational rules and demand their shunning by other Witnesses. The threat of shunning also serves to deter other members from dissident behavior.

Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jehovah's Witnesses alone represent true Christianity and for that reason they refuse all ecumenical relations with other religious denominations. Members are expected to attend all congregation meetings, as well as regular large-scale conventions, which are highly structured and based on material from Watch Tower publications.

Beliefs

Source of doctrines

Doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses are established by the Governing Body, which assumes responsibility for interpreting and applying scripture. Prior to the reorganization of the Governing Body in 1976, matters of doctrine were decided by the president of the Watch Tower Society. The Governing Body is described as the representative of and "spokesman" for God's "faithful and discreet slave class" (the approximately 10,800 remaining "anointed" Jehovah's Witnesses), which Witnesses believe is used by Christ as a channel for God's progressive revelations and to direct Christians on biblical matters. In practice, the Governing Body seeks neither advice nor approval from any "anointed" Witnesses other than high-ranking members at Brooklyn Bethel when making decisions or when producing material for publications and conventions.

Watch Tower publications claim that doctrinal changes and refinements result from a process of progressive revelation, in which God gradually reveals his will and purpose. Watch Tower literature has suggested such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study, the guidance of holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels. However, the Governing Body also disclaims infallibility and divine inspiration. All Witnesses are expected to abide by the doctrines and organizational requirements as determined by the Governing Body. Watch Tower publications strongly discourage Witnesses from formulating doctrines reached through independent Bible research. Members who promote privately-developed teachings contrary to those of the Governing Body may be expelled and shunned.

Organization

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that God uses an organization both in heaven and on earth, and that Jehovah's Witnesses, under the direction of their Governing Body, are the only visible channel by which God communicates with humanity. The organization is said to be theocratic, "ruled from the divine Top down, and not from the rank and file up". Witnesses teach that people must choose between God’s organization and Satan’s. Watch Tower publications teach that the Bible is an "organizational book" that does not belong to individuals and that the Bible cannot be properly understood without guidance by "Jehovah's visible organization".

Witnesses undergoing baptism are required to publicly confirm that they are associating themselves "with God's spirit-directed organization", thereby submitting themselves to its direction and judicial system. Watch Tower publications urge Witnesses to demonstrate loyalty to the organization without dissent, even at the cost of family ties. Loyalty to the organization is said to require full involvement in public preaching and regular meeting attendance.

Following a Governing Body committee investigation and subsequent purge of high-level members at the religion's Brooklyn headquarters in 1980, a summary of "wrong teachings" being promoted as "new understandings" was issued, which included the suggestion that God did not have an organization on earth. Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz, who was expelled as part of the purge, has subsequently criticized the Watch Tower concept of organization, which posits that God does not deal with individuals apart from an organization. He claims the concept has no scriptural support and serves only to reinforce the religion's authority structure, with its strong emphasis on human authority. He also claims that The Watchtower has repeatedly blurred discussions of both Jesus Christ's loyalty to God and the apostles' loyalty to Christ to promote the view that Witnesses should be loyal to the Watch Tower organization. Sociologist Andrew Holden has observed that Witnesses see no distinction between loyalty to Jehovah and to the movement itself, and other researchers have claimed that challenging the views of those higher up the hierarchical ladder is regarded as tantamount to challenging God himself.

Restoration of "true" Christianity

Witnesses believe that after the death of the apostles, the Church embarked on a "Great Apostasy", diverging from the original teachings of Jesus on several major points. Influenced by Restorationism in the 19th century, Charles Taze Russell and his associates formed a Bible study group in the 1870s in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, developing teachings that they considered to be a revival of "the great truths taught by Jesus and the Apostles", in what the Watch Tower Society today says was a return to original Christianity. Although many of their fundamental teachings have changed over the years, Jehovah's Witnesses have consistently claimed to be the only true religion.

Bible

The entire Protestant canon of scripture is seen as the inspired, inerrant word of God. Jehovah's Witnesses consider the Bible to be scientifically and historically accurate and reliable and interpret much of it literally, while also accepting it contains much symbolism. Jehovah's Witnesses base all of their beliefs on the Bible, as interpreted by the Governing Body.

They use the terms "Hebrew" and "Christian Greek" scriptures rather than "Old" and "New" Testaments to avoid implication that the Old Testament is outdated or inferior. They believe that the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) contain prophecy that was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, and that the books of the Christian Greek Scriptures (New Testament) are primarily directed to the 144,000 chosen by God for life in heaven. The Watch Tower Society's New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, the main translation used by Jehovah's Witnesses, reflects their view that God's name, as represented by the Tetragrammaton, should be rendered as "Jehovah", rather than "GOD" or "LORD" in all capital letters as found in translations such as the King James Version.

God

Jehovah's Witnesses believe God is the creator and supreme being. Witnesses reject the Trinity doctrine, which they consider unscriptural. They view God as the Father, an invisible spirit "person" separate from the Son, Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is described as God's "active force", rather than the third person of the Trinity. They believe he is "infinite, but approachable"; he is not omnipresent, but has a location in heaven; it is possible to have a personal relationship with him as a friend; he is kind and merciful, and would not eternally "torture" wicked people. Being respectful of the principle of free will, he does not force his sovereignty on people, choosing to save only those who want to serve him, even though the course of mankind in general may lead them to harm.

Witnesses teach that God must be distinguished by his personal name—Jehovah, as it was rendered in the King James Version. The name is a common modern representation of the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, or four-letter name, transliterated as YHWH. The use of his personal name is regarded as vital for true worship; and Witnesses rarely speak of "God" without prefacing the term with the name "Jehovah". The term "Lord", although common in the Bible, is rarely used by Witnesses when speaking about God. Because no other religion uses the name "Jehovah" with the same prevalence, they believe only their religion is making God's name known.

Jesus Christ

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus is God's "only begotten" son, and that his life began in heaven. He is described as God's first creation and the "exact representation of God", but is believed to be a separate entity and not part of a Trinity. Jesus is said to have been used by God in the creation of all other things. Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Archangel, Michael and "the Word" of John 1:1 refer to Jesus in his pre-human existence. His birth on earth was accomplished when he willingly allowed himself to be transferred, by God, from heaven to the womb of the virgin, Mary. While on earth, Jesus was executed as a sacrifice to atone for mankind's sins, becoming the "eternal father" to the human family.

They believe that after his death, Jesus appeared to his disciples and convinced them of his resurrection, and then ascended into heaven to sit at Jehovah's right hand until he would become the promised king of God's heavenly kingdom. Jesus acts as the mediator of a "new covenant" referred to in Jeremiah 31:31, Luke 22:20, and Hebrews 9:15; 12:24, directly mediating only for those going to heaven (the 144,000). Those with an earthly hope are said to be beneficiaries of that covenant. Even as king of God's kingdom, Jesus remains subordinate to God. Witnesses reject the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary, who they believe bore more children after Jesus.

Cross

The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society used the Cross and Crown symbol on tombstones, and on its publications until 1931. Since 1936, Jehovah's Witnesses have rejected the idea that Jesus died on a cross, and instead teach that he died on a single wooden stake (crux simplex), asserting that the Koiné Greek word σταυρος (stauros) refers to a single upright post. They consider the cross to be of pagan origins and an object of idol worship. Some Jehovah's Witnesses have been persecuted or killed for not bowing down to or kissing a cross.

Satan

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan is God's chief adversary and the invisible ruler of the world. He was originally a perfect son of God but developed feelings of self-importance and craved worship that belonged to God. Satan persuaded Adam and Eve to obey him rather than God, raising the issue—often referred to as a "controversy"—of whether people, having been granted free will, would obey God under both temptation and persecution. The issue is said to be whether God can rightfully claim to be sovereign of the universe. Instead of destroying Satan, God decided to test the loyalty of the rest of humankind and to prove to the rest of creation that Satan was a liar. Watch Tower publications teach that Satan misleads people on earth, and that he and the demons are the cause of human suffering. Satan and his demons are said to have been cast down to earth from heaven in 1914, marking the beginning of the "last days".

God's messianic kingdom

Publications of Jehovah's Witnesses teach that God's kingdom is a literal government in heaven, established in 1914, ruled by Jesus Christ and 144,000 humans raised to heaven. The kingdom is viewed as the means by which God will accomplish his original purpose for the earth, bringing about a world free of crime, sickness, death and poverty, and ultimately transforming the earth into a paradise. The kingdom is said to have been the focal point of Jesus' ministry and was established in 1914.

Death

Witnesses regard the soul as mortal, based on the statement at Ezekiel 18:4 that "the soul that sins, it shall die" (MKJV) and thus believe the soul does not continue to live after one dies. Death is considered a state of non-existence, based on their understanding of Ecclesiastes 9:5, "For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all". Witnesses believe that the only hope for life after death is in the resurrection, which they say involves re-creation by God of the same individual with a new body. They believe that 144,000 people will be resurrected to life as spirit creatures in heaven to be priestly rulers under Christ, but the vast majority, to physical life on earth.

Watch Tower publications teach that hell (hades or sheol) is not a place of fiery torment, but rather the "common grave", a place of unconscious non-existence. Gehenna, the Bible word commonly translated "hellfire", is said to describe a judgment of complete destruction, and that no resurrection is possible for anyone in Gehenna. They reason that complete destruction does not allow for literal "torture" of the wicked, as the deceased person lacks consciousness. Based on this, they believe that parables such as that of "the rich man and Lazarus" should not be interpreted literally, and that such references are speaking of symbolic death, not the physical death of actual individuals.

Witnesses teach that sometimes wicked angels (demons) pretend to be spirits of the dead, and that their deception is the basis for many beliefs about ghosts.

Salvation

Witness publications teach that all humanity is in a sinful state. Release from this is possible because Jesus' shed blood provided a payment, or atonement for the sins of humankind. Salvation is said to be a result of the undeserved kindness (grace) of God, but to be saved, one needs faith, demonstrated by Christian works, including the proper discharge of family duties, kindness and concern for others and proper conduct, as well as endurance in "zealous" preaching, which is singled out as the means by which Witnesses attain salvation.

Witnesses believe there are two destinations for those saved by God. They say the number of Christians going to heaven is limited to exactly 144,000, who will rule with Jesus as kings and priests over earth. The remainder have the hope of living forever in an earthly paradise. Jehovah's Witnesses teach that the only scriptural hope of surviving Armageddon comes through adherence to their beliefs, including faith in Jesus' shed blood. Those who do not show such faith and become part of God's "organization" face destruction at Armageddon. Watch Tower publications make no explicit claim about whether small children or the mentally ill will survive, but say God's judgment will be righteous and merciful. After Armageddon, most people will be resurrected with the prospect of living forever, but those who have already been condemned by God will not be resurrected. These are said to include any killed at Armageddon, or those doomed to everlasting destruction in "Gehenna". Christ will rule for a thousand years, during which time, earth will be transformed into a paradise, while Satan is abyssed and unable to influence humanity. After a final test, Satan and all those corrupted by him will be destroyed forever, with evil never occurring again. Those who survive that final test will live forever.

Eschatology

Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jesus Christ returned invisibly and began to rule in heaven as king in October 1914. They assert that the Greek word parousia (translated in most English Bible translations as coming when referring to Christ) is more accurately rendered presence, with his return perceived only as a series of "signs". As such, the Second Coming is considered an invisible presence, lasting for an extended period of time. They believe that when Jesus became king, Satan was ousted from heaven to the earth, bringing a period of "woe" to mankind.

Witnesses base their beliefs about the significance of 1914 on the Watch Tower Society's interpretation of biblical chronology, based on their belief that the destruction of Jerusalem and the beginning of the Babylonian captivity occurred in 607 BC. (Non-Witness sources date Jerusalem's destruction to 587/586 BC.) They believe that Daniel chapter 4 prophesied a period of 2,520 years starting with 607 BC and ending at 1914 AD. They equate this period with the "Gentile Times" or "the appointed times of the nations," a phrase taken from Luke 21:24. They believe that when the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, the line of kings descended from David was interrupted, and that God's throne was "trampled on" from then until Jesus began ruling in October 1914. Witnesses believe their doctrine is confirmed by world events since 1914, including wars, famine, more severe earthquakes and increasing lawlessness, which they see as fulfillment of the "sign" of Christ's presence. They believe that their preaching is also part of that sign, citing Matthew 24:14.

Witnesses teach that in 1918, Jesus resurrected those of the 144,000 (the "anointed") who had already died to heavenly life; since 1918, any "anointed" are individually resurrected to heavenly life at the time of their death to serve as kings alongside Christ in his heavenly government.

The current world era, or "system of things", is considered to be in its "last days", facing imminent destruction through intervention by God and Jesus Christ, leading to deliverance for those who worship God in truth. This judgment will begin with the destruction by the United Nations of false religion, which they identify as "Babylon the Great", or the "harlot", of Revelation 17. This will mark the beginning of the great tribulation. Satan will subsequently attack Jehovah's Witnesses, an action that will prompt God to begin the war of Armageddon, during which all forms of government and all people not counted as Christ's "sheep", or true followers, will be destroyed. After Armageddon, God will extend his heavenly kingdom to include earth, which will be transformed into a paradise similar to the Garden of Eden.

After Armageddon, most of those who had died prior to God's intervention will gradually be resurrected to a "day of judgment" lasting for the thousand years referred to in Revelation 20. This judgment will be based on their actions after resurrection, not on past deeds. At the end of the thousand years a final test will take place when Satan is released to mislead perfect mankind; Satan and any who fail the test will be destroyed, leaving a fully tested, perfect human race. Christ will then hand all authority back to God.

Defection

Watch Tower publications assert that members of the religion are not compelled to remain part of the congregation. However, Jehovah's Witness doctrines provide no method for baptized members to leave the religion on good terms. Any who do choose to depart and announce their decision to terminate their membership are regarded as abandoning God's organization and protection and voluntarily entering the world of Satan, becoming part of the antichrist. Watch Tower publications define such individuals as being "more reprehensible than those in the world" and direct that they are to be shunned by other Witnesses, including close relatives, with no social or religious contact and no greeting given. Sociologist Andrew Holden claims his research indicated many Witnesses who would otherwise defect because of disillusionment with the organization and its teachings retain affiliation out of fear of being shunned and losing contact with friends and family members.

Education

Jehovah's Witnesses are instructed to make their preaching work the top priority in their life. Higher education is discouraged because of the futility of planning secular advancement in a world they believe faces imminent destruction, as well as fears about succumbing to "worldly thinking" and concerns that advanced education might lead to a lack of humility. Because evangelistic activities take priority over educational success, young Witnesses rarely progress to college or university, which can be a source of regret in subsequent years among those who are reared in the organization and later defect. Watch Tower publications advise parents to recommend alternatives to university education for their children, suggesting associate degrees from community or technical colleges or short courses in subjects such as office administration, automotive repair, computing, or hairdressing. They urge that young Witnesses should pursue higher education only to gain skills to obtain a reasonable living while maintaining flexibility to pursue their "true" vocation, serving God. Author James Penton's major study of the Witnesses, Apocalypse Delayed, noted that of those Witnesses who do progress to university, few are likely to take studies in such areas as the humanities and the social sciences, "disciplines that are most threatening to the Witness world-view".

Jehovah's Witnesses provide religious training programs for their members, including the congregational Theocratic Ministry School, Pioneer Service School, Ministerial Training School and Gilead Missionary School, which focus on improving skills for their ministry.

Practices

Worship

Meetings for worship and study are held at Kingdom Halls, and are open to the public. Witnesses are assigned to a congregation in whose "territory" they reside and are expected to attend weekly meetings as scheduled by the Watch Tower Society and congregation elders. The meetings are largely devoted to study of the Bible and Witness doctrines; traditions of mysticism, glossalalia, creed recitation or periods of silent meditation common in other Christian denominations are absent. During meetings and in other formal circumstances, Witnesses refer to one another as "Brother" and "Sister". Sociologist Andrew Holden claims meetings create an atmosphere of uniformity for Witnesses, intensify their sense of belonging to a religious community, and reinforce the plausibility of the organization's belief system. He says they are also important in helping new converts adopt a different way of life.

The form and content of the meetings is established by the religion's Brooklyn headquarters, generally involving a consideration of the same subject matter worldwide each week. Two meetings each week are divided into five distinct sections, lasting a total of about four hours. Meetings are opened and closed with hymns and brief prayers delivered from the platform. Witnesses are urged to prepare for all meetings by studying Watch Tower literature from which the content is drawn. Kingdom Halls are typically functional in character, and do not contain religious symbols. Each year, Witnesses from a number of congregations that form a "circuit" gather for one-day and two-day assemblies; several circuits meet once a year for a three-day "district convention", usually at rented stadiums or auditoriums. Their most important and solemn event is the celebration of the "Lord's Evening Meal", or "Memorial of Christ's Death".

Weekend meeting

The weekend meeting, usually held on Sunday, comprises a 30-minute public talk by a congregation elder or ministerial servant and a one-hour question-and-answer study of a Bible-based article from The Watchtower magazine, with questions prepared by the Watch Tower Society and the answers provided in the magazine. Members may use their own words to express the ideas in the printed material, though personal ideas derived from independent study are discouraged.

Midweek meeting

The midweek meeting, typically held in the evening, includes a question-and-answer "Congregation Bible Study" (25 minutes) based on a Watch Tower Society publication,; the "Theocratic Ministry School" (30 minutes), designed to train Witnesses in public speaking and proselytizing using talks and rehearsals of doorstop sermons; and the "Service Meeting" (35 minutes), following an agenda set in the Society's monthly newsletter Our Kingdom Ministry to train Witnesses for participation in the public ministry. Prior to 2009, the midweek meeting consisted of the Theocratic Ministry School and the Service Meeting (each 45 minutes); the Congregation Book Study (1 hour) was typically held on a separate evening, divided into smaller groups in private homes.

Memorial of Christ's death

Jehovah's Witnesses commemorate Christ's death as a ransom or "propitiatory sacrifice" by observing the Lord's Evening Meal, or Memorial. They celebrate it once each year, noting that it was instituted on the Passover, an annual festival. They observe it on Nisan 14 according to the ancient Jewish luni-solar calendar. Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that this is the only celebration the Bible commands Christians to observe.

Of those who attend the Memorial, a small minority worldwide partake of the unleavened bread and wine. This is because Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the majority of the faithful have an earthly hope. Only those who believe they have a heavenly hope, the "remnant" (those still living) of the 144,000 "anointed", partake of the bread and wine. In 2008, the number of persons who partook worldwide was 9986, whereas the number who attended was 17,790,631.

The Memorial, held after sunset, includes a talk on the meaning of the celebration and the circulation among the audience of unadulterated red wine and unleavened bread. Jehovah's Witnesses believe the bread symbolizes Jesus Christ's body which he gave on behalf of mankind, and that the wine symbolizes his blood which redeems from sin. They do not believe in transubstantiation or consubstantiation. Because many congregations have no members who claim to be anointed, it is common for no one to partake of the bread and wine.

Assemblies and Conventions

Each year, Jehovah's Witnesses hold a "Special Assembly Day" and a two-day "Circuit Assembly", held in each circuit worldwide. Each circuit comprises several congregations in a geographical area. These are held either in Assembly Halls owned by Jehovah's Witnesses, or in rented facilities, such as public auditoriums. Once a year, Jehovah's Witnesses come together at larger assemblies called "District Conventions" which are usually three days long. Every fifth year, "International Conventions" are held in selected cities, usually lasting four days, with visiting delegates from other countries. The attendance of some conventions numbers into the hundreds of thousands, with the largest-ever gathering held in New York in 1958 at Yankee Stadium and Polo Grounds with a peak attendance exceeding 250,000.

Evangelism

Jehovah's Witnesses are required to express their belief in the religion's doctrines by participating in both organized and spontaneous evangelizing and proselytizing work, with baptism permitted only for those who demonstrate "regular and zealous" participation. Baptism is regarded as an automatic ordination as a minister and from that point Witnesses feel a moral obligation to serve as "publishers", disseminating Watch Tower doctrines as evangelists of "the Truth". Watch Tower publications describe house-to-house visitations as the primary work of Jehovah's Witnesses in obedience to a "divine command" to preach "the Kingdom good news in all the earth and (make) disciples of people of all the nations". Children usually accompany their parents and participate in the public ministry.

Members who commit themselves to evangelize for 840 hours in a year (an average of 70 hours per month) are called regular pioneers. Those who commit themselves to spend 50 hours evangelizing for a month are called auxiliary pioneers, which they may do for consecutive months. Some Witnesses volunteer for missionary service, and may be invited to receive specialized training at the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead. These individuals dedicate, on average, more than 120 hours per month to their work. Members who are not able to 'pioneer' are told they may maintain the "pioneer spirit", by spending as much time as they can in preaching and by supporting the efforts of pioneers. Witnesses are frequently instructed through Watch Tower Society publications, and at meetings and conventions, to increase the quality and quantity of their preaching efforts. Watch Tower Society publications suggest that endurance in public preaching is the means by which Witnesses attain salvation, and that evangelizing frees them from blood-guilt regarding individuals who might die at Armageddon without having heard about God's kingdom.

Specialized territory maps of residential and commercial areas are prepared within the boundaries of each congregation's territory and distributed to publishers who are responsible for preaching within that area. Witnesses are instructed to fill out monthly report slips on their preaching activity, listing the hours spent, publications placed with householders, and the number of "return visits" made to households where interest had previously been shown. The reports are used to help measure the "spirituality" of individuals and to establish the eligibility of men as congregation elders and ministerial servants. A Witness who fails to report for a month is known as an "irregular publisher"; those who have not turned in a field service report for six consecutive months are known as "inactive publishers".

Witnesses have, in the past, used a wide variety of methods to spread their faith, including information marches, where members wore sandwich boards and handed out leaflets, to sound cars (car-mounted phonographs), and syndicated newspaper columns and radio segments devoted to sermons. Between 1924 and 1957, the organization operated a radio station, WBBR, from New York.

Watch Tower literature

Jehovah's Witnesses make extensive use of Watch Tower Society literature, including books, magazines, booklets and handbills, to spread their beliefs and for use as textbooks at their religious meetings. The publications are produced in many languages, with a small selection available in 500 languages. Their primary publications, The Watchtower and Awake!, are published simultaneously in hundreds of languages and are also available in audio and electronic formats. Issues of both publications are compiled annually into bound volumes, and are also added annually to the Watchtower Library CD-ROM, officially available only to baptized members, which contains many Witness publications from 1950 onward. New books, brochures, and other items are released at their annual conventions. Additionally, a number of audio cassettes, videocassettes, and DVDs have been produced explaining the group's beliefs, practices, organization and history. Some of these also provide dramas based on biblical accounts. Since 1942 all Watch Tower literature has been published anonymously.

Publications were sold to the public until the early 1990s, from which point they were offered gratis, with a request for donations. The change in policy was first announced in the United States in February 1990, with one newspaper claiming it was prompted by the loss of a US Supreme Court court case by Jimmy Swaggart Ministries on the issue of sales tax exemption for religious groups. The Watch Tower Society had joined the case as an Amicus curiae, or "friend of the court". The court ruling would have resulted in the Watch Tower Society having to pay millions of dollars in sales tax if sales of their literature had continued.

Witnesses are urged to prepare for congregation meetings by studying the assigned Watch Tower literature, and are also expected to read all magazines and books published by the Society. One analysis noted that each year Witnesses are expected to read more than 3000 pages of the Society's publications, according to its suggested program for personal study. In 1981 this would have included 1536 pages from The Watchtower and Awake!, 48 pages from Our Kingdom Ministry, 384 pages of a book for the congregation book study, 384 pages from the Yearbook, 360 pages of the Theocratic Ministry School textbook and 258 pages of assembly releases in addition to scheduled weekly Bible reading. Much of the literature is extensively illustrated, with sociologist Andrew Holden observing utopian, post-Armageddon images of happy Witnesses in bright sunshine and pristine environments, often playing with formerly wild animals such as lions and tigers, in contrast to dark-colored images of unfavorable activities such as murders, burglaries and promiscuity that highlight the moral dangers outside the organization.

Conversion

To become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, a systematic Bible study course is followed. One must also accept Jesus' ransom sacrifice and repent of sins, and make a personal dedication to God. Participation in the preaching work is required, as well as regular meeting attendance.

The elders ask a series of questions to ensure that the person understands and accepts the beliefs of the Witnesses in preparation for baptism. Baptisms are normally performed at assemblies and conventions. At these baptisms, candidates make "public declaration" of their prior dedication to God. The speaker typically asks the candidates, "On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?” After the candidates answer with an affirmative "yes" and agree that their dedication and baptism "identifies of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God’s spirit-directed organization", they undergo water immersion.

Discipline

Formal discipline is administered by congregation elders. In the event that an accusation of serious sin is made concerning a baptized member, if there is sufficient evidence, a tribunal or judicial committee is formed to determine guilt, administer help and possibly apply sanctions.

Disfellowshipping is the most severe form of discipline administered. Before taking this step, the judicial committee must determine that the individual has committed a "serious sin" and that there is no evidence of true repentance. To judge that repentance is genuine, members of the judicial committee ask questions and review the actions of the accused member. Baptized members who spread teachings contrary to the doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses can be disfellowshipped for apostasy. Once the decision to disfellowship has been made, a person has seven days to appeal, after which, if the person has not appealed, the disfellowshipping will be announced to the congregation; disfellowshipping does not take effect until the announcement is made to the congregation. After a person is disfellowshipped, the person is shunned by all baptized members. Exceptions to this would include cases where a member was forced to have commercial dealings with a member who is disfellowshipped, or if the disfellowshipped member is living with family members who are baptized. In these cases, the Witness are not permitted to speak about matters pertaining to the religion, except in the case of parents conducting a bible study with a disfellowshipped minor. The extent to which disfellowshipped or disassociated relatives living in the same household is included in family life is left to the discretion of the family. Family members living outside the home who are disfellowshipped have minimal contact.

Reproof involves sins that could lead to disfellowshipping. Ones considered "truly repentant" are reproved rather than disfellowshipped. Reproof is given "before all onlookers." If the sin is private in nature, the reproof would involve just the individual(s) involved. If the sin is known generally by the entire congregation or the community, an announcement is made informing the congregation that the person has been reproved. Later, without disclosing names or private details, one of the elders gives a separate talk ensuring that the congregation understands the sin, its dangers, and how to avoid it. Certain restrictions on congregation privileges apply to the reproved individual, until the elders decide that the member has regained "spiritual strength." Restrictions may include not sharing in meeting parts, not commenting at meeting parts and not praying for a group. The duration of restrictions is dependent upon the elders. One cannot "pioneer" or "auxiliary pioneer" for at least one year after reproof is given.

Marking is practiced if a person's course of action is regarded as a violation of Bible principles, reflecting badly on the congregation, but is not a disfellowshipping offense. The person is strongly counseled. If, after repeated counsel sessions, the person still pursues the disturbing course, he might be 'marked', which involves an announcement stating that the actions in question are wrong, without naming the individual involved. Congregation members limit social contact with that person. The purpose of this is to shame the person into correcting their actions. "Marked" individuals are not shunned completely, but social contact is minimized.

Family life

The family structure is patriarchal. Husbands are considered the final authority of family decisions, as the head of his family. Marriages must be monogamous. Wives should be submissive to their husbands and husbands are to have deep respect and love for their wives. Husbands are instructed to treat their wives as Jesus treated his followers. He should not hurt or mistreat his family in any way. The father should be hard-working in providing necessities to his family. He must also provide for them in a spiritual capacity. This includes religious instruction for the family, and taking the lead in preaching activities. Parental discipline for children should not be in a harsh, cruel way. Children are instructed to obey their parents.

Married couples are encouraged to speak with local elders if they are having problems. Married couples can separate in the case of physical abuse and neglect, or if one partner attempts to hinder the other from being a Jehovah's Witness. Re-marriage after divorce is permissible only on the grounds of adultery, based on their understanding of Jesus' words at Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9.

Morality

Jehovah's Witnesses demand high standards of morality within their ranks. Their view of sexual behavior reflects conservative Christian views. Abortion is considered murder. Homosexuality, premarital sex, and extramarital sex are considered “serious sins”. Smoking, use of addictive drugs, and drunkenness are prohibited. Modesty in dress and grooming is frequently stressed. Entertainment promoting immoral, "demonic", or violent themes is considered inappropriate. Members are warned that personal grooming such as beards, long hair or earrings for men, or other styles of dress or grooming might "stumble" the consciences of others.

Gambling by making money through the losses of others is viewed as a "form of greed", and is prohibited. The trading of stocks, shares and bonds is viewed as acceptable.

Blood

Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that the Bible prohibits the consumption, storage and transfusion of blood, based on their understanding of scriptures such as Leviticus 17:10, 11: "I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood", and Acts 15:29: "abstain from ... blood". They apply this viewpoint even in cases of emergency. The Watchtower introduced this view in 1945, and it has developed since then. Accordingly the organization has established Hospital Information Services (HIS), which provides education and facilitation of “bloodless surgery.” This service also maintains Hospital Liaison Committees whose function is to provide support to adherents facing surgery and assist in providing information to the medical community on bloodless surgery techniques and alternatives to blood.

Though accepted by the majority of members, some within the Jehovah's Witness community do not endorse the doctrine. Historically the doctrine has drawn criticism from members of the medical community. Some professionals worldwide acknowledge the benefits of avoiding the use of blood during surgery and therefore routinely utilize bloodless surgery techniques on Jehovah's Witnesses and others.

Theocratic warfare

Watch Tower Society publications have claimed that Witnesses are engaged in a spiritual, theocratic warfare against false teachings and wicked spirit forces. They are told that to protect the interests of God's cause, it is proper to hide the truth from his "enemies" by being evasive or withholding truthful or incriminating information from those not entitled by law to know. The Watchtower told Witnesses: "It is proper to cover over our arrangements for the work that God commands us to do. If the wolfish foes draw wrong conclusions from our maneuvers to outwit them, no harm has been done to them by the harmless sheep, innocent in their motives as doves."

Separateness

Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that it is vital to remain "separate from the world" in harmony with Jesus' description of his followers at John 17:14-16. Watch Tower publications define the "world" as "the mass of mankind apart from Jehovah’s approved servants" and teach that it is ruled by Satan and a place of danger and moral contamination. Witnesses manifest their world-renouncing beliefs in many ways. They avoid involvement in social controversies, remain politically neutral, and do not seek public office. The Watch Tower Society has stated that voting in political elections is a personal conscience decision, though a Witness who takes any action considered to be a "violation of Christian neutrality" may face religious sanctions. They refuse participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities, abstain from celebrating religious holidays, and reject many customs they claim have pagan origins. They do not work in industries associated with the military, do not serve in the armed services, and refuse national military service, which in some countries may result in their arrest and imprisonment. They do not salute or pledge allegiance to national flags or sing national anthems or other patriotic songs.

Witnesses are urged to restrict their social contact with non-members to a minimum because of perceived dangers of worldly association. Sociologist Andrew Holden indicated they are highly selective in choosing with whom they spend leisure time, generally choosing the company of other Witnesses. Many Witnesses interviewed by Holden reported tensions and ostracism at work because of their religious beliefs. He reported that many converts to the religion required some social adjustment as they gradually reduced contact with non-Witness friends. Association with those outside the organization, commonly referred to by Witnesses as "worldly" and "not in the Truth", is acceptable only when it is viewed as an opportunity to preach and Witnesses are under considerable pressure from the Society to show outsiders they are people of high moral fiber. Holden claims that as a result, Witnesses working with "worldly" colleagues tend to closely adhere to Watch Tower teachings.

Celebrations

Weddings, anniversaries, and funerals are observed, though they avoid incorporating certain traditions they see to have pagan origins. They may use rings in wedding ceremonies; The Watchtower acknowledges that wedding rings were first used by pagans, but states that their origin does not rule out their use for Christians. Witnesses typically observe wedding anniversaries, with the Watch Tower Society noting that wedding anniversaries apparently do not stem from pagan origins.

Other common celebrations and religious or national holidays such as birthdays, Halloween, and Christmas are not celebrated because they believe that these continue to involve "false religious beliefs or activities." Watch Tower Society publications rule out the celebration of Mother's Day because of a claimed link with pagan gods and concerns that giving "special honor and worship" to mothers is a form of creature worship" that could turn people away from God. The Society also directs Witnesses to shun May Day, New Year's Day and Valentine's Day celebrations because of their pagan origins.

Their opposition to birthdays is said to be based on how the Bible presents them. Watch Tower Society publications note that the only birthday celebrations explicitly mentioned in the Bible are those of Herod and Pharaoh, and that both were associated with executions, and neither celebrant was a servant of God. (Though some religions interpret Job 1:4 to indicate birthday feasts of Job's sons, Jehovah's Witnesses interpret them as a circuit of feasts from one house to the next.) The Bible does not show Jesus or his apostles celebrating birthdays and The Watchtower claims the absence of any record of the date of the birth of Jesus or his apostles indicates that "God does not want us to celebrate any of these birthdays".

Construction

International and regional building teams frequently undertake constructions of Kingdom Halls over the course of one or two weekends, referred to as "quick-builds". Larger construction projects, including the building of regional Assembly Halls and Bethel offices, factories, residences, warehouses, and farm facilities, are also carried out almost entirely by volunteer members.

Humanitarian efforts

Jehovah's Witnesses provide relief assistance in disaster-stricken areas for their members and others in the vicinity. Medicine and clothing were provided to both Hutu and Tutsi Witnesses during the 1994 genocide campaign in Rwanda. Following Hurricane Katrina, they helped rebuild houses of Witnesses and others. The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses uses "Regional Building Committees" to oversee relief efforts worldwide.

Funding of activities

Jehovah's Witnesses fund their activities, such as publishing, constructing and operating facilities, evangelism, and disaster relief via donations. There is no tithing or collection, but members are reminded to donate to the organization; Witnesses typically provide an opportunity for members of the public to make donations as they encounter them in their preaching work. Donation boxes labeled for several purposes are located in Kingdom Halls and other meeting facilities. Generally there are contribution boxes for local operating expenses, a Kingdom Hall fund for helping Witnesses around the world to build Kingdom Halls, and a general fund for the "Worldwide Work", which includes the printing of literature, organization of conventions, supporting missionaries and disaster relief, and other operating expenses of the organization.

The accounts (including donations) and the financial operation of the local congregation are reviewed monthly at the Service Meeting. Donations are also accepted via mail, and the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society can be named as a beneficiary to an estate, and also accepts donations in the form of life insurance policies, pension plans, bank accounts, certificates of deposit, retirement accounts, stocks and bonds, real estate, annuities and trusts.

References

1. Franz 2002, p. 106.
2. Keep Yourselves in God’s Love, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2008, page 43, "The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses represents the slave class. ... elders today receive instructions and counsel from the Governing Body, either directly or through its representatives, such as traveling overseers."
3. ^ "Remaining Organized for Survival Into the Millennium", The Watchtower, September 1, 1989, page 19, "Only Jehovah's Witnesses, those of the anointed remnant and the 'great crowd,' as a united organization under the protection of the Supreme Organizer, have any Scriptural hope of surviving the impending end of this doomed system dominated by Satan the Devil."
4. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 179.
5. "All True Christians Are Evangelizers", The Watchtower, January 1, 2002, pages 11-12, "Proselytize or Evangelize? The Greek language has the word pro·se’ly·tos, which means a “convert.” From this has come the English word “proselytism,” which basically means “the act of making converts.” Nowadays, some say that proselytism is harmful. ... Pressuring people to change their religion is wrong. Certainly, Jehovah’s Witnesses do not act in such a way. Hence, they do not proselytize in the modern meaning of the word. Rather ... they preach the good news to everyone. Any who respond voluntarily are invited to take in more knowledge by means of a Bible study."
6. Holden 2002, p. 7.
7. Holden 2002, p. 71.
8. Holden 2002, pp. 7, 109–112.
9. Holden 2002, pp. 26, 28.
10. Penton 1997, p. 90.
11. Holden 2002, p. 163.
12. "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", The Watchtower, June 1, 1992, page 18.
13. Holden 2002, p. 1.
14. Holden 2002, pp. 66–68.
15. "Serving with the Faithful Slave", The Watchtower, January 1, 1977, pages 14-15.
16. Alan Rogerson, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, Constable, 1969, page 46.
17. Testimony by Fred Franz, Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954. page 100, "The President is the mouthpiece. He pronounces the speeches that show advancement of the understanding of the Scriptures ... Q: Tell me, are these advances, as you put it, voted upon by the Directors? A: No... they go through the Editorial Committee, and I give my OK after scriptural examination. Then I pass them on to President Knorr, and President Knorr has the final OK. Q: Does it go before the Board of Directors at all? A: No. "
18. "Seek God's guidance in all things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 11.
19. "How the Governing Body Is Organized", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 29.
20. You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. Watchtower Society. 1989. p. 195.
21. Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 16.
22. "Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation", Watchtower, June 15, 1964, page 365, "The abundance of spiritual food and the amazing details of Jehovah’s purposes that have been revealed to Jehovah’s anointed witnesses are clear evidence that they are the ones mentioned by Jesus when he foretold a 'faithful and discreet slave' class that would be used to dispense God’s progressive revelations in these last days ... How thankful we should be for the provision God has made of this slave class, the modern spiritual remnant, as they faithfully dispense the revealed truths of Jehovah! ... Jehovah’s faithful witnesses have been progressively brought to an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes, which are clearer now than ever before in history."
23. Watchtower August 1, 2001 p. 14 paragraph 8, "A mature Christian ... does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding. Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and 'the faithful and discreet slave.'"
24. Franz 2007, pp. 152–164.
25. "Impart God’s Progressive Revelation to Mankind", The Watchtower, March 1, 1965, p. 158-159
26. Penton 1997, pp. 165–171.
27. Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 15.
28. Jehovah's Witnesses, Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 709.
29. Penton 1997, p. 165.
30. J. F. Rutherdford, Preparation, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1933, page 64, 67, "Enlightenment proceeds from Jehovah by and through Christ Jesus and is given to the faithful anointed on earth at the temple, and brings great peace and consolation to them. Again Zechariah talked with the angel of the Lord, which shows that the remnant are instructed by the angels of the Lord. The remnant do not hear audible sounds, because such is not necessary. Jehovah has provided his own good way to convey thoughts to the minds of his anointed ones ... Those of the remnant, being honest and true, must say, We do not know; and the Lord enlightens them, sending his angels for that very purpose."
31. "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?", The Watchtower, March 1, 1979, pages 23-24.
32. "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, October 15, 1954, page 638.
33. "Name and Purpose of The Watchtower", The Watchtower, August 15, 1950, page 263.
34. ^ "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30-31.
35. "Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today", Watchtower, February 1, 1952, pages 79, 80.
36. Testimony by Fred Franz, Transcript, Lord Strachan vs. Douglas Walsh, 1954. page 123, as reproduced in R. Franz In Search of Christian Freedom, Q: "Did you imply that the individual member has the right of reading the books and the Bible and forming his own view as to the proper interpretation of Holy Writ? A" .... No."
37. Holden 2002, p. 22.
38. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. pp. 143, 153–165. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
39. "Do You Appreciate Jehovah’s Organization?", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998.
40. "The Visible Part of God’s Organization", The Watchtower, May 1, 1981.
41. "Theocratic Organization with Which to Move Forward Now", The Watchtower, December 15, 1971, page 754.
42. "Directing Interest to the Organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1987, page 3.
43. "Restoration of True Religion Today", The Watchtower, March 1, 1954, page 151.
44. The Watchtower, October 1, 1967; cited in Penton 1997, p. 163.
45. Franz 2007, p. 118.
46. Holden 2002, p. 33.
47. "Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty", The Watchtower, March 15, 1996, page 16.
48. "Building Disciples Having the Quality of Endurance", The Watchtower, April 1, 1970, page 213.
49. "Do Not Resist Jehovah’s Counsel", The Watchtower, July 15, 1965, page 435.
50. "Loyalty to theocratic organization", Our Kingdom Ministry, November 1, 1953.
51. "Serve Jehovah Loyally", The Watchtower, November 15, 1992, page 21.
52. Franz 2002, p. 316.
53. Franz 2007, p. 449.
54. Franz 2007, p. 449-464, "Loyalty to the organization becomes the touchstone, the criterion, the "bottom line", when it comes to determining whether one is a faithful Christian or not ... to make any organizational loyalty the criterion for judging anyone's Christianity is, then, clearly a perversion of Scripture ... Read the whole of those Scriptures ,,, nowehere are we taught to put faith in men or in an earthly organization, unquestioningly following its lead ... the entire Bible record is a continual reminder of the danger inherent in that kind of trust."
55. Franz 2007, p. 458.
56. Holden 2002, p. 121.
57. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 156. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
58. Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, December 1, 1916, R6010: page 371.
59. "Religion’s Future in View of Its Past", Awake!, October 22, 1989, p. 17.
60. Franz 2002, pp. 183–184.
61. Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 203.
62. Penton 1997, p. 172.
63. All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 336.
64. "Obedience to the Good News a Way of Life", The Watchtower, October 15, 1977, page 618.
65. Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 199-208.
66. "Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures—Which?", The Watchtower March 1, 1995, p. 19.
67. "We Have Found the Messiah"!, The Watchtower, October 1, 1992, p. 10.
68. United In Worship of the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1983, p. 111.
69. ^ Holden 2002, p. 24.
70. Should You Believe in the Trinity?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 14, 20.
71. Insight In The Scriptures volume 1, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 969.
72. "Is God Everywhere?", Awake! March 8, 1995, p. 21.
73. "Eternal Torment — Why a Disturbing Doctrine?", The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 5.
74. "God’s Wisdom in Dealing with Mankind", Awake!, June 8, 1971, page 12.
75. Penton 1997, p. 184.
76. "Who Are Giving God Glory Today?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2004, page 12.
77. ^ Franz 2007, p. 494
78. Franz 2007, p. 489
79. Insight On The Scriptures volume 2, p. 52 Jesus Christ
80. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2002, p. 184
81. "What Do the Scriptures Say About 'the Divinity of Christ'?, The Watchtower January 15, 1992 p. 20-23.
82. Jesus? The Ruler "Whose Origin Is From Early Times", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998, p. 22.
83. Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace”, chap. 20 p. 163 par. 8 A Happy Human Family Under a New Fatherhood
84. "Appreciate Jesus’ Unique Role in God’s Purpose", pages 13-14, The Watchtower, December 15, 2008, "The original-language word translated “mediator” is a legal term. It refers to Jesus as a legal Mediator (or, in a sense, an attorney) of the new covenant... What about those who are not in the new covenant, those who hope to live forever on earth, not in heaven? While not participants in the new covenant, these are beneficiaries of it. ... Whether we have a heavenly hope or an earthly hope, each one of us has good reason to appreciate Jesus’ role as the Mediator of the new covenant."
85. Insight on the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 2, page 360.
86. Penton 1997, pp. 188–189.
87. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, August 15, 1989, p. 30.
88. Is Jesus God Almighty? - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
89. Jesus' Family—Who Were They? The Watchtower December 15, 2003, p. 3
90. "They Are No Part of the World". Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. p. 200.
91. http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/2919/russ3.html
92. What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Jehovah's Witnesses. 2005. pp. 51, 201–204.
93. "European High Court Upholds Right to Preach in Greece". The Watchtower. Watchtower: 28–29. 1 September 1993.
94. "Poland". 1994 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watchtower. p. 206.
95. "Declaration and resolution", The Watchtower, December 1, 1973, page 724.
96. ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. pp. 144–145.
97. What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. p. 32.
98. "Declaration and resolution", The Watchtower, December 1, 1973, page 724.
99. What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. pp. 87, 216.
100. "What Has God’s Kingdom Been Doing Since 1914?", The Watchtower, October 15, 1966, page 617.
101. The Government That Will Bring Paradise, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 3.
102. Insight on the Scriptures,, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 1, page 310.
103. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 6.
104. Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 225-234.
105. "God’s Kingdom—Earth’s New Rulership", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, page 10.
106. You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 77.
107. "Is There LIFE After Death?", The Watchtower July 15, 2001.
108. Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 333.
109. "The Only Remedy!", The Watchtower March 15, 2006, p. 6.
110. "Hell—Eternal Torture or Common Grave?" The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 6.
111. "Comfort for Those Who Mourn", Awake! May 8, 2002, p. 19.
112. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 2005, p. 31.
113. Insight On The Scriptures, Vol 1, p. 906.
114. "The Dead Who Are in Line for Resurrection", The Watchtower, February 1, 1965, p.76.
115. "Satan Worship in Our Time", The Watchtower, September 1, 1988, p. 5.
116. "What Is the Bible’s View? Mourning for the Dead", Awake!, December 8, 1974, pp. 26-28.
117. "Jehovah Cares For You", The Watchtower, October 15, 2002, p. 15.
118. Insight On The Scriptures, Vol 2, p. 733.
119. "Do You Share Jehovah’s View of Sacred Things?", The Watchtower, November 1, 2006, p. 23.
120. Jesus Saves—How?, The Watchtower November 15, 2001.
121. "Keep Your Hope of Salvation Bright!", The Watchtower, June 1, 2000, p. 12.
122. "Christian Works — What Do They Include?", The Watchtower, June 1, 1978, p. 29
123. ^ "Preaching in a Lawless World", The Watchtower, July 15, 1979, page 13, paragraph 4; cited in Penton 1997, p. 206.
124. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
125. Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
126. "Have No Fear, Little Flock", The Watchtower, February 15, 1995, p. 18-22.
127. "A Great Crowd Rendering Sacred Service", The Watchtower February 1, 1995, p. 14-17.
128. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 179.
129. The Watchtower July 1, 1995 p. 21 par 17,18.
130. "Strengthening Our Confidence in God's Righteousness", The Watchtower August 15, 1998 p. 20
131. "The Only Remedy!", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, p. 6.
132. The Watchtower July 1, 1998, p. 19-24
133. What Does The Bible Really Teach? Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, p. 73.
134. "What God’s Kingdom Will Do.", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000 p. 19.
135. Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 292.
136. What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, p. 215 par. 2
137. "Christ’s Presence—What Does It Mean to You?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2008, page 21.
138. "Jesus’ Coming or Jesus’ Presence—Which?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1996, p. 12.
139. The Watchtower, February 1, 1996, p6.
140. "Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses say that God’s Kingdom was established in 1914?", Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 95-96.
141. Gruss, Edmond C. (1972). The Jehovah's Witnesses and Prophetic Speculation. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. pp. 20–58. ISBN 0-87552-306-4.
142. Let Your Kingdom Come, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1981, pp. 186-189 Appendix to Chapter 14.
143. What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, pp. 217-218.
144. The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1981, pg 86.
145. True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1986, pp 81-84.
146. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world as a witness to all nations. And then the end shall come." - Matthew 24:14.
147. The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, p11.
148. Awake!, October 22, 1993, p. 11.
149. Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 102-104.
150. "Deliverance by God’s Kingdom Is at Hand!", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 15.
151. Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 235-236.
152. "Apocalypse—When?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1986, page 6.
153. Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 286.
154. The Watchtower, September 1, 1959, pp. 530-531 par. 15.
155. Armageddon—A Happy Beginning Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
156. Penton 1997, p. 180.
157. The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, p 6.
158. Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988,p. 788.
159. The Watchtower, May 1, 2005, p. 20.
160. The Watchtower, August 15, 2006, p. 31
161. Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 2006, pp. 94,95.
162. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 1, 1984, page 31.
163. ^ Holden 2002, pp. 150–170.
164. ^ "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
165. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, July 15, 1985, page 31.
166. "Remain Without Spot From the World", The Watchtower, October 1, 1984, p. 17 par. 10.
167. "Repudiate Valueless Things", The Watchtower, April 15, 2008, page 4.
168. "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, pages 26-29.
169. ^ Holden 2002, p. 135.
170. "Parents—What Future Do You Want for Your Children?", The Watchtower, October 1, 2005, p. 26-31.
171. Penton 1997, pp. 314–315.
172. ^ Holden 2002, pp. 64–69.
173. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 85. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
174. "Benefit Fully From the Service Meetings", Our Kingdom Ministry, January 1989, page 7.
175. Franz 2007, p. 420.
176. "Families, Praise God as Part of His Congregation". The Watchtower: 20. 1 July 1999.
177. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 143. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
178. Jehovah’s Witnesses—Who Are They? What Do They Believe?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2000, page 15.
179. Holden 2002, p. 51.
180. "Are You Benefiting Yourself?", Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2000, page 3.
181. "Congregation Meetings—Part IV: A Provision to Help Us Make Disciples", Our Kingdom Ministry, February 1981, page 1.
182. "New Congregation Meeting Schedule", Our Kingdom Ministry, October 2008, page 1
183. Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2007, p. 8 How the Congregation Book Study Arrangement Helps Us
184. Reasoning From The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, p. 265.
185. Insight On The Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, p. 392.
186. What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, p. 207, "Who should partake of these Memorial emblems? Logically, only those in the new covenant—that is, those who have the hope of going to heaven—should partake of the bread and the wine. God’s holy spirit convinces such ones that they have been selected to be heavenly kings."
187. Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses 2009, p. 31
188. What Does The Bible Really Teach?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, p. 207.
189. "Discerning What We Are — At Memorial Time", The Watchtower, February 15, 1990, p. 16.
190. ^ Holden 2002, pp. 71–76.
191. ^ Question Box, Our Kingdom Ministry, June 1990, page 8.
192. "Paying Back Caesar’s Things to Caesar", The Watchtower, May 1, 1996, page 16.
193. Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, page 4.
194. "Help Your Children Progress in the Ministry". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. July 2005.
195. "Can We Make April 2000 Our Best Month Ever?". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3. 2000-03. If you are uncertain about your ability to meet the 70-hour requirement for regular pioneers, why not auxiliary pioneer in April and set 70 hours as your goal? {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Check date values in: |date= (help)
196. "Declare Abroad the Excellencies of Jehovah". Our Kingdom Ministry: 4. 2007-02. Meeting the auxiliary pioneer requirement of 50 hours may not be as difficult as you think. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Check date values in: |date= (help)
197. Determined to Follow God’s Way of Life The Watchtower January 15 1999 p. 6
198. "A Worthy Goal for the New Service Year". Our Kingdom Ministry: 5. 2007-08. Even if you feel that you are unable to auxiliary pioneer during this coming service year, you can still maintain the pioneer spirit. Continue to do all that you can in the ministry, confident that Jehovah is pleased with your whole-souled effort to give him your best. (Gal. 6:4) Be supportive, and encourage those who are able to auxiliary pioneer. Perhaps you can adjust your schedule to share in the ministry an additional day of the week with those who are pioneering. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Check date values in: |date= (help)
199. Penton 1997, p. 259.
200. Franz 2007, pp. 196–206.
201. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
202. Keeping “Clean from the Blood of All Men”, The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 608.
203. "Do You Contribute to an Accurate Report?", Our Kingdom Ministry, December 2002, page 8.
204. Penton 1997, p. 247.
205. Franz 2007, p. 201.
206. http://www.jw-media.org
207. Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, p. 3
208. Penton 1997, pp. 78.
209. Swaggart Ministries v. California Board of Equalization case summary, US Supreme Court Media
210. Watch Tower brief, Jimmy Swaggart Ministries vs California Board of Equalization, US Supreme Court, 1988.
211. Penton 1997, pp. 320.
212. Organized To Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, page 62.
213. "Let Your Advancement Be Manifest", Watchtower, August 1, 1992, page 10.
214. "Look to Jehovah for Insight", Watchtower, March 15, 1989, page 14.
215. Holden 2002, pp. 88.
216. Penton 1997, pp. 231
217. Holden 2002, pp. 92–93
218. The Watchtower 1/15/89 p. 13 par. 18 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
219. What Does The Bible Really Teach chap. 18 pp. 175-176 pars. 4-5 Baptism and Your Relationship With God
220. Organized to Do Jehovah's Will
221. What Does The Bible Really Teach? . | chap. 18 p. 182 par. 21 “Baptism and Your Relationship With God”
222. The Watchtower 5/15/03 p. 31 Questions From Readers
223. http://www.jwfiles.com/baptized.htm | w89 1/15 13 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?
224. The Watchtower 9/15/87 p. 13.
225. The Watchtower 1/1/95 p. 30 par. 3
226. Pay Attention To Yourself and All the Flock, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1991, page 94, "Apostasy is a standing away from, a falling away, defection, rebellion, abandonment; it involves teaching false doctrines, supporting or promoting false religion and its holidays or interfaith activities ... Persons who deliberately spread (stubbornly hold to and speak about) teachings contrary to Bible truth as taught by Jehovah's Witnesses are apostates."
227. Reasoning From The Scriptures p. 34 Apostasy "Others claim to believe the Bible but reject Jehovah’s organization."
228. The Watchtower 4/1/86 p. 31.
229. Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock - pgs. 121-122
230. The Watchtower April 15, 1988.
231. “Helping Minors to Worship God”, Awake! 11/15, 1988, p. 20.
232. "Thus, it would be left to members of the family to decide on the extent to which the disfellowshipped family member would be included when eating or engaging in other household activities. And yet, they would not want to give brothers with whom they associate the impression that everything is the same as it was before the disfellowshipping occurred." Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is Disfellowshipped, p 4. Scan available at http://www.jwfiles.com/scans/KM8-2002.htm accessed January 27, 2006.
233. "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, p. 26., "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum."
234. "Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit", The Watchtower April 15, 1988, p. 26.
235. “Questions From Readers”, The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30-31.
236. “Repentance Leading Back to God”, The Watchtower, September 1, 1981, p. 27 par. 30.
237. Our Kingdom Ministry, March 1975, p. 4.
238. Our Kingdom Ministry, May 1973, p. 8.
239. "Reproofs Are the Way of Life", The Watchtower, November 15, 1977 p. 691.
240. Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
241. The Watchtower, July 15, 1999, p. 30
242. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1985, p. 31.
243. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, April 15, 1984 p. 31.
244. The Bible's Viewpoint What Does It Mean to Be the Head of the House?, Awake! 2004b, July 8, 2004, p. 26.
245. The Secret of Family Happiness, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, pp. 160-161.
246. "Are You Faithful in All Things?", Watchtower, July 15, 2005, page 29.
247. Knowledge that Leads to Everlasting Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1995, p. 118.
248. "Young People Ask... What's Wrong With Premarital Sex?", Awake! July 22, 2004, p. 12.
249. Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993,p. 180.
250. “You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy”, The Watchtower, February 15, 1976, p. 123 par. 16.
251. “When Another’s Conscience Is Involved”, Awake! April 22, 1979, pp. 27-28
252. Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, p. 180.
253. What Does God Require of Us?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, p. 20.
254. What Is Wrong With Gambling? - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
255. Awake!, June 8, 2001, p. 30
256. http://www.watchtower.org/library/hb/article_01.htm
257. http://www.watchtower.org/library/g/1993/11/22/article_01.htm
258. http://www.watchtower.org/e/vcnb/article_01.htm
259. "Use theocratic war strategy", The Watchtower, May 1, 1957, page 285,286.
260. "Questions from readers", The Watchtower, June 1, 1960, pages 351-352.
261. "Christians live the truth", The Watchtower, October 1, 1954, page 597.
262. Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 244-245.
263. "Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves", The Watchtower, February 1, 1956, page 86.
264. Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 435-436.
265. "Live a Balanced, Simple Life", The Watchtower, July 15, 1989, page 11.
266. Holden 2002, pp. 12.
267. What Does God Require?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1996, page 13.
268. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, November 1, 1999, p. 28, "As to whether they will personally vote for someone running in an election, each one of Jehovah’s Witnesses makes a decision based on his Bible-trained conscience and an understanding of his responsibility to God and to the State.
269. Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock, page 140.
270. Jehovah's Witnesses Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 188)
271. Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 269-270.
272. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, p. 159.
273. Watch Tower Press Release, October 4, 2007
274. Education, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, pp. 20-23
275. ^ Franz 2007, p. 409.
276. "Train With Godly Devotion as Your Aim", Watchtower, August 15, 1985, page 19.
277. Survival Into a New Earth, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1984, page 168.
278. "Each One Will Carry His Own Load", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 23.
279. Holden 2002, pp. 109–112.
280. Holden 2002, pp. 69.
281. "Keep Clear of False Worship!", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 30, "Should we hold ourselves completely aloof from those who do not share our faith? The answer is no. The second of the two greatest commandments states: 'You must love your neighbor as yourself.' We certainly display love for our neighbors when we share with them the good news of the Kingdom."
282. Holden 2002, pp. 123.
283. The Watchtower 1/15/69 p. 58 Christian Weddings Should Reflect Reasonableness "Of course, some customs are unscriptural and so they are objectionable to Christians. ... Other customs are plainly acts of false worship. So one planning a wedding does well to examine practices common in his area and analyze how people view them locally."
284. The Watchtower 7/15/98 p. 24 A Christian View of Funeral Customs "Funeral customs do not always conflict with Bible principles. When they do, Christians are determined to act in harmony with the Scriptures."
285. Wagner, Leopold (1894). Manners, Customs, and Observances. Forgotten Books. p. 61. ISBN 1605067989. Retrieved 2008-08-15.
286. The Watchtower 1/15/72 p. 63 "It is thus seen that the precise origin of the wedding ring is uncertain. Even if it were a fact that pagans first used wedding rings, would that rule such out for Christians? Not necessarily."
287. The Watchtower, December 1, 1971, p. 735.
288. "Christmas Customs—Are They Christian", The Watchtower, December 15, 2000, page 3-7, Online
289. Awake! 7/8/04 p. 30 "Christians refrain from any celebrations or customs that continue to involve false religious beliefs or activities that violate Bible principles. For example, the Bible definitely puts birthday celebrations in a bad light"
290. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, November 15, 1960, p. 704.
291. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998, p. 30.
292. “They Are No Part of the World”, Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, page 199, "Jehovah’s Witnesses have good times with their families and friends. But they do not participate in holidays and celebrations that are linked with pagan gods (as is true of such holidays as Easter, New Year’s Day, May Day, and Mother’s Day)."
293. Vindication, J. F. Rutherford, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1931, pages 158-159.
294. "What Is the Bible’s View? Are They Harmless Observances?", Awake!, February 8, 1974, Page 27.
295. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998. pp. 30-31.
296. Job 1:4 reads "And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them." (King James version)
297. The Watchtower, November 15, 1960, p. 704.
298. "Christianity in Action: Amid Turmoil", The Watchtower, January 15, 1998.
299. Awake!, June 2006, page 19, "Heeding the Warnings Made a Difference"
300. Awake!, June 2006, p.19.
301. Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, December 2003, p. 7
302. “A New Program for Kingdom Hall Construction”, Our Kingdom Ministry, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, September 1983, p. 4-5.
303. “How May I Contribute?”, The Watchtower, May 1, 1962, p. 278-279.
304. "Ways in Which Some Choose to Give Contributions to the Worldwide Work", The Watchtower, November 1, 2006, page 20

Bibliography

• Franz, Raymond (2002). Crisis of Conscience (4th ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0914675249.
• Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom (2nd ed.). Commentary Press. ISBN 0914675176.
• Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. ISBN 0415266106.
• Penton, James M. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0802079733.

External links

• Reliving Jesus' Last Days on Earth - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site, concerning the Memorial of Christ's Death
• The Last Days of Jesus' Human Life - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site, concerning the Memorial of Christ's death
• Recent News about the Jehovah's Witnesses
• Jehovah's Witnesses MP3 Recordings

• Beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses