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Jehovah's Witnesses
International headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses in Brooklyn, New York
Classification	Restorationist (Christian primitivism)
Polity	Modified presbyterian polity
Structure	Hierarchical
Region	Worldwide
Founder	Charles Taze Russell
Origin	1870s: Bible Student movement 1931: Jehovah's witnesses Pennsylvania and New York, USA
Separations	See Jehovah's Witnesses splinter groups
Congregations	107,210
Members	7.5 million
Official website	http://www.watchtower.org
Statistics from 2011 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses

Jehovah's Witnesses is a millenarian restorationist Christian denomination with nontrinitarian beliefs distinct from mainstream Christianity. The religion reports worldwide membership of over 7 million adherents involved in evangelism, convention attendance of over 12 million, and annual Memorial attendance of over 18 million. They are directed by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses, a group of elders located in Brooklyn that exercises the final authority on all doctrinal matters. Witnesses claim to base their beliefs solely on the Bible and prefer their own translation, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. Their central belief is the imminent destruction of the present world system at Armageddon and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth, which they consider to be the only solution for all problems faced by humankind.

The group emerged from the Bible Student movement—founded in the late 1870s by Charles Taze Russell with the formation of Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society—with significant organizational and doctrinal changes under the leadership of Joseph Franklin Rutherford. The name Jehovah's witnesses, based on Isaiah 43:10–12, was adopted in 1931 to clearly distinguish themselves from the disassociated groups of dissenting Bible Students. Jehovah's Witnesses are best known for their door-to-door preaching, distribution of literature such as The Watchtower and Awake!, and for their refusal of military service and blood transfusions. They consider use of the name Jehovah vital for proper worship. They reject Trinitarianism, inherent immortality of the soul, and hellfire, which they consider to be unscriptural doctrines. They do not observe holiday celebrations such as Christmas, Easter or birthdays, claiming that they have pagan origins that are incompatible with Christianity. Adherents commonly refer to their body of beliefs as "the Truth" and consider themselves to be "in the truth". Jehovah's Witnesses consider secular society to be morally corrupt and under the influence of Satan, and limit their social interaction with non-Witnesses.

Baptized members who violate the organization's fundamental moral principles or who dispute doctrinal matters may be subject to disciplinary action including expulsion and shunning ("disfellowshipping"). Members who formally leave the religion ("disassociating") are also shunned. Disfellowshipped members may eventually be reinstated to the congregation if deemed repentant.

The religion's position regarding conscientious objection to military service and refusal to salute national flags has brought it into conflict with some governments. Consequently, activities of Jehovah's Witnesses have been banned or restricted in some countries. Persistent legal challenges by Jehovah's Witnesses have had considerable influence on legislation related to civil rights in various countries.

History

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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Background (1870–1916)

In 1870, Charles Taze Russell and others formed an independent group to study the Bible. In 1876 Russell met Nelson H. Barbour and in the following year the pair jointly produced the book Three Worlds which combined restitutionist views with time prophecy. In the book they taught that God's dealings with mankind were divided dispensationally, each ending with a "harvest", that Christ had returned invisibly as a spirit being in 1874 inaugurating the "harvest of the Gospel age", and that 1914 would mark the end of a 2520-year period called "the Gentile Times". Beginning in 1878 they jointly edited a religious journal, Herald of the Morning. In June 1879 the two split over doctrinal differences and in July Russell began publishing the magazine Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, stating that its purpose was to demonstrate the world was in "the last days" and that a new age of earthly and human restitution under the invisible reign of Christ was imminent. From 1879 Watch Tower supporters gathered as autonomous congregations to study the Bible topically. Thirty congregations were founded, and during 1879 and 1880 Russell visited each to teach the pattern of meetings he recommended. Beginning in 1895 he encouraged congregation Bible study using his Studies in the Scriptures as a guide. In the 1880s Russell combined printing facilities and a meeting house into an Allegheny headquarters he named the Bible House. In 1881, he founded Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society and in 1884 incorporated it as a non-profit business entity to distribute tracts and Bibles. In 1894 he dismissed the idea of establishing the Watch Tower Society as a "visible organization" believing that to do so would be out of harmony with God's plan. In 1889, Russell taught that "the 'battle of the great day of God Almighty' ... is already commenced" and would culminate with the overthrow of all political rulership in 1914, at the end of "the Gentile Times". By 1897, he believed that the end of "the Gentile Times" in October 1914 would result in the overthrow of all political and ecclesiastical rulership followed by the full establishment of God's kingdom on earth. Russell died at age 64 during a speaking tour in late 1916.

Reorganization (1917–1942)

In January 1917, the Watch Tower Society's legal representative, Joseph Franklin Rutherford, was elected as its next president. His election was disputed, triggering a major turnover of members over the next decade. Rutherford centralized organizational control of the Watch Tower Society. In 1919 the Brooklyn headquarters appointed a director in each congregation, and a year later all members were instructed to report their preaching activity weekly. In June 1917 he released The Finished Mystery as a seventh volume of Russell's Studies in the Scriptures without the knowledge or approval of the Board of Directors and falsely advertised it as the "posthumous work of Pastor Russell." The book strongly criticized Catholic and Protestant clergy and Christian involvement in war. As a result, Watch Tower Society directors were jailed for sedition under the Espionage Act in 1918 and members were subjected to mob violence; charges against the directors were dropped in 1920.

By mid-1919, about one in seven Bible Students had left rather than accepted Rutherford's leadership. At an international convention held at Cedar Point, Ohio, in September 1922, a new emphasis was made on house-to-house preaching. Significant changes in doctrine were made under Rutherford's leadership, including the 1918 announcement that Jewish patriarchs (such as Abraham and Isaac) would be resurrected in 1925, marking the beginning of Christ's thousand-year reign. Most members became dissatisfied with Rutherford's leadership, resulting in the formation of various Bible Student groups independent of the Watch Tower Society. William Schnell, author and former Witness, has claimed that three quarters of the Bible Students who had been associating in 1921 had left by 1931. In 1930 Rutherford stated that "the total number of those who have withdrawn from the Society ... is comparatively large."

On July 26, 1931, at a convention in Columbus, Ohio, Rutherford announced the new name—Jehovah's witnesses—based on Isaiah 43:10: "Ye are my witnesses, saith Jehovah, and my servant whom I have chosen"—which was adopted by resolution. Rutherford said he was inspired to select the name to distinguish his group of Bible Students from other independent groups that had severed ties with the changing Watch Tower Society.

In 1932, Rutherford eliminated the system of locally elected elders and in 1938 introduced what he called a "theocratic" (literally, God-ruled) organizational system, under which appointments in congregations worldwide were made from the Brooklyn headquarters. Rutherford later claimed that this and other changes he had instituted fulfilled Bible prophecies in the book of Daniel.

In 1932, Rutherford taught that a separate class of members would live in a paradise restored on earth; from 1935, new converts to the movement were considered part of that class. Previously, membership was generally composed of those who believed they would be resurrected to live in heaven to rule over earth with Christ. By 1933, the timing of the beginning of Christ's presence (Greek: parousía), his enthronement as king, and the start of the "last days" were each moved to 1914.

As their interpretations of scripture developed, Witness publications taught that saluting national flags and singing the national anthem are forms of idolatry, which led to a new outbreak of mob violence and government opposition in the United States, Canada, Germany, and other countries.

Continued development (1942–present)

Following Rutherford's death in January 1942, Nathan Knorr was appointed as third president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. He commissioned a new translation of the Bible, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, the full version of which was released in 1961. He organized large international assemblies, instituted new training programs for members, and expanded missionary activity and branch offices throughout the world. Knorr's presidency was also marked by an increasing use of explicit instructions guiding Witnesses in their lifestyle and conduct, and a greater use of congregational judicial procedures to enforce strict moral codes.

From 1966, Witness publications and convention talks built anticipation of the possibility that Christ's thousand-year reign might begin in late 1975 or shortly thereafter. The number of baptisms increased significantly, from about 59,000 in 1966 to more than 297,000 in 1974, but membership declined after expectations for the year were proved wrong. Watch Tower Society literature did not state dogmatically that 1975 would definitely mark the end, but in 1980 the Watch Tower Society admitted its responsibility in building up hope regarding that year.

The offices of elder and ministerial servant were restored to Witness congregations in 1972, with appointments made from headquarters (and later, also by branch committees). In a major organizational overhaul in 1976, the power of the Watch Tower Society president was diminished, with authority for doctrinal and organizational decisions passed to the Governing Body. Reflecting these organizational changes, publications of Jehovah's Witnesses began using the capitalized name, Jehovah's Witnesses. Since Knorr's death in 1977, the position of president has been occupied by Frederick Franz (1977–1992) and Milton Henschel (1992–2000), both members of the Governing Body, and since 2000 by Don A. Adams, not a member of the Governing Body.

Organization

Jehovah's Witnesses are organized under a hierarchical arrangement, which their leadership calls a "theocratic government", reflecting their belief that it is God's "visible organization" on earth. The organization is headed by the Governing Body—an all-male group that varies in size, but since December 2010 has comprised seven members, all of whom profess to be of the "anointed" class with a hope of heavenly life—based in the Watch Tower Society's Brooklyn, New York headquarters. There is no election for membership; new members are selected by the existing body. The Governing Body is described as the "spokesman" for God's "faithful and discreet slave class" (approximately 10,000 self-professed "anointed" Jehovah's Witnesses). It directs several committees that are responsible for administrative functions, including publishing, assembly programs and evangelizing activities. It directly appoints all branch committee members and district and circuit overseers, after they have been recommended by local branches, with traveling overseers supervising groups of congregations within their jurisdictions.

Each congregation has a body of appointed unpaid male elders and ministerial servants. Elders maintain general responsibility for congregational governance, setting meeting times, selecting speakers and conducting meetings, directing the public preaching work, and creating "judicial committees" to investigate and decide disciplinary action for cases that are seen as breaching their doctrines. New elders are appointed by branch offices after recommendation by the existing body of elders. Ministerial servants—appointed in a similar manner to elders—fulfill clerical and attendant duties, but may also teach and conduct meetings. Witnesses do not use elder as a title to signify a formal clergy-laity division, though elders may employ ecclesiastical privilege.

Individuals undergoing baptism must affirm publicly that dedication and baptism identify them "as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization," though Witness publications say baptism symbolizes personal dedication to God and not "to a man, work or organization." Watch Tower publications emphasize the need for members to be obedient and loyal to Jehovah and to "his organization", stating that individuals must remain part of it to receive God's favor and to survive Armageddon. Witness publications state that acceptable service to God can be rendered only through that organization and that members should remain submissive to the religion's leaders and to local congregational elders. There is no tithing or collection; funding for all activities of the organization is provided by voluntary contributions, primarily from members.

Classification

Sociologist James A. Beckford has classified the organizational structure of Jehovah's Witnesses as Totalizing, characterized by an assertive leadership, specific and narrow objectives, control over competing demands on members' time and energy, and control over the quality of new members. Other characteristics of the classification include likelihood of friction with secular authorities, reluctance to co-operate with other religious organizations, a high rate of membership turnover, a low rate of doctrinal change, and strict uniformity of beliefs among members. Beckford identified the religion's chief characteristics as historicism (identifying historical events as relating to the outworking of God's purpose), absolutism (conviction that the Watch Tower Society dispenses absolute truth), activism (capacity to motivate members to perform missionary tasks), rationalism (conviction that Witness doctrines have a rational basis devoid of mystery), authoritarianism (rigid presentation of regulations without the opportunity for criticism) and world indifference (rejection of certain secular requirements and medical treatments).

Sociologist Bryan R. Wilson, in his consideration of five religions including Jehovah's Witnesses, noted that each of the religions:

1. "exists in a state of tension with the wider society;"
2. "imposes tests of merit on would-be members;"
3. "exercises stern discipline, regulating the declared beliefs and the life habits of members and prescribing and operating sanctions for those who deviate, including the possibility of expulsion;"
4. "demands sustained and total commitment from its members, and the subordination, and perhaps even the exclusion of all other interests."

Beliefs

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Sources of doctrine

Doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses are established by the Governing Body, which assumes responsibility for interpreting and applying scripture. Watch Tower Society publications claim that doctrinal changes and refinements result from a process of progressive revelation, in which God gradually reveals his will and purpose, and that such enlightenment results from the application of reason and study, the guidance of the holy spirit, and direction from Jesus Christ and angels. The Society also teaches that "responsible representatives" of the "faithful and discreet slave class" at the religion's headquarters are helped by the holy spirit to discern "deep truths", which are then considered by the entire Governing Body before it makes doctrinal decisions. The religion's leadership is said to provide "divine guidance" and its teachings are described as "not from men, but from Jehovah", though they also disclaim both divine inspiration and infallibility.

The entire Protestant canon of scripture is considered 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, but accept parts of it as symbolic. They consider the Bible to be the final authority for all their beliefs, although sociologist Andrew Holden's ethnographic study of the religion concluded that pronouncements of the Governing Body, through Watch Tower Society publications, carry almost as much weight as the Bible. Jehovah's Witnesses believe their religion restores the doctrines of "true" Christianity. The religion makes no provision for members to criticize or contribute to official teachings and all Witnesses must abide by its doctrines and organizational requirements. Witnesses are directed not to study the Bible independently from its publications or to read any other religious literature. Adherents are told to have "complete confidence" in the leadership and "not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding".

Jehovah and Jesus Christ

Jehovah's Witnesses emphasize use of God's biblical name, represented in the original texts by the Tetragrammaton, and in English they prefer to use the name, Jehovah. They believe that Jehovah is the only true God, the creator of all things, and give him the title "Universal Sovereign". They believe that all worship should be directed toward him, and that he is not part of a Trinity; consequently, the religion places more emphasis on God than on Christ. They believe that the Holy Spirit is God's power or "active force" rather than an individual.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus was God's only direct creation, that everything else was created by means of Christ, and that the initial unassisted act of creation uniquely identifies Jesus as God's "only-begotten Son". Jesus served as a redeemer and a ransom sacrifice to pay for the sins of humankind. They believe Jesus died on a single upright torture stake rather than the traditional cross. They believe that references in the Bible to the Archangel Michael, Apollyon (a.k.a. Abaddon), and the Word all refer to Jesus. Jesus is considered to be the only mediator between God and humankind, and appointed by God as the king and judge of his kingdom.

Satan

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Satan was originally a perfect angel who developed feelings of self-importance and craved worship. Satan persuaded Adam and Eve to disobey God, and humanity subsequently became participants in a challenge involving the competing claims of Jehovah and Satan to universal sovereignty. Other angels who sided with Satan became demons.

Jehovah's Witnesses teach that Satan and his demons were cast down to earth from heaven after October 1, 1914, at which point the end times began. Witnesses believe that Satan is the ruler of the current world order, that human society is influenced and misled by Satan and his demons, and that they are a cause of human suffering. However, they do not believe that individual rulers or governments are under Satan's direct control.

Life after death

Jehovah's Witnesses believe death is a state of non-existence with no consciousness. There is no Hell of fiery torment; Hades and Sheol are understood to refer to the condition of death, termed the common grave. Jehovah's Witnesses consider the soul to be a life or a living body that can die. Their hope for life after death involves being resurrected by God to a cleansed earth after Armageddon. Watch Tower Society publications teach that humanity is in a sinful state, from which release is only possible by means of Jesus' shed blood as a payment, or atonement, for the sins of humankind. Witnesses believe there are two destinations for those saved by God. They interpret Revelation 14:1-5 to mean that 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 hope to live forever in an earthly paradise. Jehovah's Witnesses teach that only they meet scriptural requirements for surviving Armageddon, but that God is the final judge. During the millennium, most other people who died since the time of Abel and prior to Armageddon will be resurrected with the prospect of living forever; they will be taught the proper way to worship God in order for them to be ready for their final test before the end of the millennium.

God's kingdom

Witness publications teach that God's kingdom is a literal government in heaven, ruled by Jesus Christ and 144,000 Christians drawn from the earth. The kingdom is viewed as the means by which God will accomplish his original purpose for the earth, transforming earth into a paradise without sickness or death. It is said to have been the focal point of Jesus' ministry on earth and established in heaven in 1914. They believe 1914 marks the restoration of God's rule over earth after being halted for 2520 years since 607 BC, the date they uniquely assign to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.

Eschatology

A central teaching of Jehovah's Witnesses is that the current world era, or "system of things", entered the "last days" in 1914 and faces imminent destruction through intervention by God and Jesus Christ, leading to deliverance for those who worship God acceptably. They consider all other present-day religions to be false, identifying them with "Babylon the Great", or the "harlot", of Revelation 17, and believe that they will soon be destroyed by the United Nations. This development 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 during "judgment day" lasting for a thousand years. 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. The end result will be a fully tested, glorified human race. Christ will then hand all authority back to God.

Watch Tower Society publications teach that Jesus Christ began to rule in heaven as king of God's Kingdom in October 1914, and that Satan was subsequently ousted from heaven to the earth, resulting in "woe" to mankind. They believe that Jesus rules invisibly, perceived only as a series of "signs". They base this belief on a rendering of the Greek word parousia—usually translated as "coming" when referring to Christ—as "presence". They believe Jesus' presence refers to a period of unknown duration rather than a moment of arrival.

Practices

Worship

Meetings for worship and study are held at Kingdom Halls, which are typically functional in character, and do not contain religious symbols. Witnesses are assigned to a congregation in whose "territory" they reside and attend weekly services they refer to as "meetings" as scheduled by congregation elders. The meetings are largely devoted to study of Watch Tower Society literature and the Bible. The format of the meetings is established by the religion's Brooklyn headquarters, and the subject matter for most meetings is the same worldwide. Congregations meet for two sessions each week comprising five distinct meetings that total about three-and-a-half hours, typically gathering mid-week (three meetings) and on the weekend (two meetings). Gatherings are opened and closed with kingdom songs and brief prayers. 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 commemoration of the "Lord's Evening Meal", or "Memorial of Christ's Death", which generally falls on the same date as the Jewish Passover.

Evangelism

Jehovah's Witnesses are perhaps best known for their efforts to spread their beliefs, most notably by visiting people from house to house. Free home Bible studies are offered to people who show interest in their beliefs, which they present with the aid of books, brochures and magazines, including The Watchtower. Some literature is available in more than 500 languages. Witnesses are told they are under a biblical command to engage in public preaching. They are instructed to devote as much time as possible to their ministry and are required to submit an individual monthly "Field Service Report". Baptized members who fail to submit a report every month are referred to as "irregular" and may be counseled by elders; those who do not submit a report for six consecutive months are referred to as "inactive".

Ethics and morality

Their view of morality reflects conservative Christian values. All sexual relations outside of marriage are grounds for expulsion if the individual is not deemed repentant. Abortion is considered murder. Modesty in dress and grooming is frequently emphasized. Gambling, drunkenness, illegal drugs, and tobacco use are forbidden. Drinking of alcoholic beverages is permitted in moderation.

The family structure is patriarchal. The husband is considered the final authority on family decisions, but is encouraged to solicit his wife's thoughts and feelings, as well as those of his children. Marriages are required to be monogamous. Divorce is discouraged, and remarriage is not permitted unless a divorce is obtained on the grounds of adultery, referred to as "a scriptural divorce". If a divorce is obtained for any other reason, remarriage is considered adultery while the previous spouse is still alive and has not begun another sexual relationship. Extreme physical abuse, willful non-support of one's family, and what the religion terms "absolute endangerment of spirituality" are considered grounds for legal separation.

Disciplinary action

Formal discipline is administered by congregation elders. Counseling and shepherding are emphasized as primary roles of congregation elders. When an allegation of "serious sin" is made concerning a baptized member, a judicial committee is formed to determine guilt, provide help and possibly administer discipline. Disfellowshipping, a form of shunning, is the strongest form of discipline administered. Contact with disfellowshipped individuals is limited to direct family members living in the same home, and with congregation elders who may invite disfellowshipped persons to apply for reinstatement; formal business dealings may continue if contractually or financially obliged. Witnesses are taught that avoiding social and spiritual interaction with disfellowshipped individuals keeps the congregation free from immoral influence and that "losing precious fellowship with loved ones may help to come “to his senses,” see the seriousness of his wrong, and take steps to return to Jehovah." The practice of shunning may also serve to deter other members from dissident behavior. Members who formally resign ("disassociate") are also shunned. Disfellowshipped and disassociated individuals are considered to "unrepentantly practice lawlessness". Reproof is given formally by a judicial committee to a baptized Witness who is considered repentant of "serious sin"; the reproved person temporarily loses conspicuous privileges of service, but suffers no restriction of social or spiritual fellowship. Marking is practiced if a baptized member persists in a course of action regarded as a violation of Bible principles but not a "serious sin".

Separateness

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the Bible condemns the mixing of religions, on the basis that there can only be one truth from God, and therefore reject interfaith and ecumenical movements. They believe that only their religion represents true Christianity, and that other religions fail to meet all the requirements set by God and will soon be destroyed. Jehovah's Witnesses are taught that it is vital to remain "separate from the world." Watch Tower Society 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. Because of perceived dangers from "worldly" association, Witnesses are advised to minimize social contact with non-members to better maintain their own standards of morality.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe their highest allegiance belongs to God's kingdom, which is viewed as an actual government in heaven, with Christ as king. They remain politically neutral, do not seek public office, and are discouraged from voting, though individual members may participate in uncontroversial community improvement issues. They abstain from celebrating religious holidays and birthdays and reject many customs they believe 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 flags or sing national anthems or patriotic songs. Jehovah's Witnesses see themselves as a worldwide brotherhood that transcends national boundaries and ethnic loyalties.

Rejection of blood transfusions

Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood transfusions, which they consider a violation of God's law based on their interpretation of Acts 15:28, 29 and other scriptures. Since 1961 the willing acceptance of a blood transfusion by an unrepentant member has been grounds for expulsion from the religion. Watch Tower Society literature directs Witnesses to refuse blood transfusions, even in "a life-or-death situation". Jehovah's Witnesses accept non-blood alternatives and other medical procedures in lieu of blood transfusions, and the Watch Tower Society provides information about current non-blood medical procedures.

Though Jehovah's Witnesses do not accept blood transfusions of whole blood, they may accept some blood plasma fractions at their own discretion. The Watch Tower Society provides pre-formatted Power of Attorney documents prohibiting major blood components, in which members can specify which allowable fractions and treatments they will personally accept. Jehovah's Witnesses have established Hospital Liaison Committees as a cooperative arrangement between individual Jehovah's Witnesses and medical professionals and hospitals.

Demographics

Jehovah's Witnesses have an active presence in most countries, though they do not form a large part of the population of any country. As of August 2010, Jehovah's Witnesses have an average of 7.2 million "publishers", the term they use for members actively involved in preaching, and they are formed into 107,000 congregations. In 2010, these reports indicated a total of over 1.6 billion hours spent in preaching and Bible study activity. Since the mid-1990s, the number of peak publishers has increased from 4.5 million to 7.5 million, The worldwide growth rate of Jehovah's Witnesses is currently 2.5% per year. The official published membership statistics include only those who submit reports for their personal ministry; official statistics do not include "inactive" and disfellowshipped members or those who merely attend meetings. As a result, only about half of those who self-identified as Jehovah's Witnesses in independent demographic studies are considered "active" by the faith itself. The 2008 US Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life survey found a high "churn rate" among members of the religion, with two-thirds of people raised as Jehovah's Witnesses claiming they had since left the religion.

Opposition

The beliefs, doctrines and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses have engendered controversy and opposition from local governments, communities, and religious groups. Religious commentator Ken Jubber wrote that "Viewed globally, this persecution has been so persistent and of such an intensity that it would not be inaccurate to regard Jehovah's witnesses as the most persecuted religion of the twentieth century."

Persecution

Political and religious animosity against Jehovah's Witnesses has at times led to mob action and government oppression in various countries. Their doctrine of political neutrality and their refusal to serve in the military has led to imprisonment of members who refused conscription during World War II and at other times where national service has been compulsory. In Germany, as many as 12,000 Witnesses were sent to concentration camps, and were identified by purple triangles; as many as 5000 died. More than 200 men were executed at the orders of German war courts. In Canada, Jehovah's Witnesses were interned in camps along with political dissidents and people of Chinese and Japanese descent. In the former Soviet Union, about 9300 Jehovah's Witness families were deported to Siberia as part of Operation North in April 1951. Their religious activities are currently banned or restricted in some countries, including China, Vietnam and some Islamic states.

Legal challenges

Many cases involving Jehovah's Witnesses have been heard by Supreme Courts throughout the world. Their persistent legal challenges have helped to widen the definition of civil liberties in many countries. The cases generally relate to the right to practice their religion, displays of patriotism and military service, and blood transfusions.

Criticism

Jehovah's Witnesses have attracted criticism over issues surrounding their Bible translation, doctrines, their handling of sexual abuse cases, and what is claimed to be coercion of members. Many of the claims are denied by Jehovah's Witnesses and some have also been disputed by courts and religious scholars.

Suppression of free speech and thought

Critics have described the religion's leadership as autocratic and totalitarian because of Watch Tower Society requirements for loyalty and obedience by Witnesses, intolerance of dissent about doctrines and practices, and the practice of shunning members who cannot conscientiously agree with all the religion's teachings. Sociologist Andrew Holden says those who choose to leave the religion "are seldom allowed a dignified exit." Sociologist Rodney Stark, however, states that while Jehovah's Witness leaders are "not always very democratic" and members are expected to conform to "rather strict standards," enforcement tends to be informal, sustained by close bonds of friendship and that Jehovah's Witnesses see themselves as "part of the power structure rather than subject to it."

Watch Tower Society publications instruct followers not to question its doctrines and counsel, and warns members to "avoid independent thinking", claiming such thinking "was introduced by Satan the Devil" and would "cause division". Critics charge that by disparaging individual decision-making, the Watch Tower Society cultivates a system of unquestioning obedience in which Witnesses abrogate all responsibility and rights over their personal lives. Critics have also accused the Watch Tower Society of using elements of mind control by exercising "intellectual dominance" over Witnesses, controlling information and creating "mental isolation". In a case involving Jehovah's Witnesses' activities in Russia, the European Court of Human Rights stated that the religion's requirements "are not fundamentally different from similar limitations that other religions impose on their followers' private lives" and that charges of "mind control" in the case were "based on conjecture and uncorroborated by fact."

New World Translation

Some Bible scholars including Bruce M. Metzger have noted that the translation of certain texts in its New World Translation of the Bible is biased in favor of Witness practices and doctrines. English Bible editor Dr. Harold H. Rowley criticized the pre-release edition of the first volume (Genesis to Ruth) published in 1953 as "a shining example of how the Bible should not be translated." In his study on nine of "the Bibles most widely in use in the English-speaking world" Bible scholar Jason BeDuhn noted that the New World Translation was not bias free, but that he considered it to be "the most accurate of the translations compared," and "a remarkably good translation." Professor Benjamin Kedar of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem described the translation as "an honest endeavor to achieve an understanding of the text that is as accurate as possible."

Bruce M. Metzger after stating, "on the whole, one gains a tolerably good impression of the scholarly equipment of the translators", goes on to criticize their insertion of the name Jehovah in the New Testament since it does not appear in the extant Greek manuscripts. Watch Tower Society publications have said the name was "restored" on a sound basis, particularly when New Testament writers used the Greek Kyrios (Lord) when quoting Old Testament scriptures that contained the Tetragrammaton. That view is endorsed by Bible scholar George Howard and R. B. Girdlestone, late principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford.

Failed predictions

Watch Tower Society publications have claimed that God has used Jehovah's Witnesses (and previously, the International Bible Students) to declare his will and has equipped them with advanced knowledge about future world events. Former Governing Body member Raymond Franz, who became a critic of the religion, has cited publications that claimed that God has used Jehovah's Witnesses and the International Bible Students as a modern-day prophet. Jehovah's Witnesses' publications have made various predictions about world events they believe were prophesied in the Bible. Failed predictions have led to the alteration or abandonment of some doctrines. Critics highlight failed predictions that the Watch Tower Society had claimed were "beyond doubt" or "approved by God". The Watch Tower Society rejects accusations that it is a false prophet. It says that unlike Old Testament prophets its interpretations of the Bible are not inspired or infallible, and that its predictions were not claimed as "the words of Jehovah." It states that some of its expectations have needed adjustment as a part of progressive revelation and of its eagerness for God's Kingdom, adding that Witnesses are always ready to accept such adjustments and that it would be "foolish to take the view that expectations needing some adjustment should call into question the whole body of truth."

Handling of sexual abuse cases

As recently as 2007, some critics have accused Jehovah's Witnesses of employing organizational policies that make the reporting of sexual abuse difficult for members. Some victims of sexual abuse have asserted that they were ordered by local elders to maintain silence so as to avoid embarrassment to both the accused and the organization. Jehovah's Witnesses maintain that they have no policy of silence, and that elders are directed to report abuse to authorities when there is evidence of abuse, and when required to by law. In 1997, Jehovah's Witnesses' Office of Public Information published their policy for elders to report allegations of child abuse to the authorities where required by law to do so, even if there was only one witness. Any person known to have sexually abused a child is prohibited from holding any responsibility inside the organization. Unless considered by the congregation elders to demonstrate repentance, such a person is typically disfellowshipped.

References

1. "Mankind’s Millennium Under God’s Kingdom—Why Literally So", The Watchtower–April 15, 1967
2. Stark; Iannaccone, Laurence; et al. (1997). "Why Jehovah's Witnesses Grow So Rapidly: A Theoretical Application". Journal of Contemporary Religion. 12 (2): 133–157. doi:10.1080/13537909708580796. {{cite journal}}: Explicit use of et al. in: |author= (help)
3. "Religious Tolerance.org". "BeliefNet". "Adherents.com". "Statistics on Religion".
4. "Religion & Ethics Jehovah's Witnesses". "Major Christian Denominations". "The American Heritage Dictionary".
5. "Jehovah's Witnesses Official Media Web Site: Our History and Organization - Membership". Office of Public Information of Jehovah's Witnesses. While other religious groups count their membership by occasional or annual attendance, this figure reflects only those who are actively involved in the public Bible educational work .
6. "Guided by God's Spirit", Awake!, June 2008, page 32, "In 2007, more than 12 million people attended over 3,200 of such conventions!"
7. Statistics at Jehovah's Witnesses official website, 2010.
8. Alan Rogerson, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, Constable, 1969, page 123.
9. "Jehovah's Witness". Britannica Concise Encyclopedia. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc. 2007. ISBN 978-1-59339-293-2.
10. "The Embryonic State of a Religious Sect's Development: The Jehovah's Witnesses" Sociological Yearbook of Religion in Britain, ed. Michael Hill, 1972, issue 5 pp 11-12: "Joseph Franklin Rutherford succeeded to Russell's position as President of Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society, but only at the expense of antagonizing a large proportion of the Watch Towers subscribers. Nevertheless, he persisted in moulding the Society to suit his own programme of activist evangelism under systematic central control, and he succeeded in creating the administrative structure of the present-day sect of Jehovah's Witnesses."
11. Leo P. Chall, Sociological Abstracts, vol 26 issues 1-3, "Sociology of Religion", 1978, pg 193 col 2: "Rutherford, through the Watch Tower Society, succeeded in changing all aspects of the sect from 1919 to 1932 and created Jehovah's Witnesses—a charismatic offshoot of the Bible student community."
12. Rogerson, Alan, Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses, Constable, London, 1969. pp 55-56: "In 1931 came an important milestone in the history of the organisation. For many years Rutherford's followers had been called a variety of names: 'International Bible Students', 'Russellites', or 'Millennial Dawners'. In order to distinguish clearly his followers from the other groups who had separated in 1918 Rutherford proposed that they adopt an entirely new name - Jehovah's witnesses."
13. The Watch Tower, "A New Name", October 1, 1931 pp 291: "Since the death of Charles T. Russell there have arisen numerous companies formed out of those who once walked with him, each of these companies claiming to teach the truth, and each calling themselves by some name, such as "Followers of Pastor Russell", "those who stand by the truth as expounded by Pastor Russell," "Associated Bible Students," and some by the names of their local leaders. All of this tends to confusion and hinders those of good will who are not better informed from obtaining a knowledge of the truth."
14. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 64. ISBN 0415266092.
15. "Working in the "Field"—Before the Harvest", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, page 28
16. "Proclaiming the Lord's Return (1870–1914)", Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, pp. 44–46
17. N.H. Barbour, C. T. Russell, The Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World, 1877, page 104.
18. N.H. Barbour & C. T. Russell, The Three Worlds, 1877, page 67.
19. Holden, A. (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 18. ISBN 0585453144.
20. Zion's Watch Tower, July 1, 1879, pg 1:"This is the first number of the first volume of "Zion's Watch Tower," and it may not be amiss to state the object of its publication. That we are living "in the last days"—"the day of the Lord"—"the end" of the Gospel age, and consequently, in the dawn of a "new" age."
21. "Prospectus". Zion's Watch Tower. 1 July 1879. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
22. 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, Watch Tower, pages 38-39
23. Zion's Watch Tower, Sept 1, 1895, pg 218: "Since the "Circles" are no longer an experiment, but have practically demonstrated their value, it seems advisable to announce the matter so that all the students of the truth can have the benefit of the experience of others."
24. C.T. Russell, "A Conspiracy Exposed", Zion's Watch Tower Extra edition, April 25, 1894, page 55-60, "This is a business association merely ... it has no creed or confession ... it is merely a business convenience in disseminating the truth."]
25. Historical Dictionary of Jehovah's Witnesses by George D. Chryssides, Scarecrow Press, 2008, page xxxiv, "Russell wanted to consolidate the movement he had started. ...In 1880, Bible House, a four-story building in Allegheny, was completed, with printing facilities and meeting accommodation, and it became the organization's headquarters. The next stage of institutionalization was legal incorporation. In 1884, Russell formed the Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society, which was incorporated in Pennsylvania... Russell was concerned that his supporters should feel part of a unified movement."
26. Religion in the Twentieth Century by Vergilius Ture Anselm Ferm, Philosophical Library, 1948, page 383, "As the Society expanded, it became necessary to incorporate it and build a more definite organization. In 1884, a charter was granted recognizing the Society as a religious, non-profit corporation."
27. Zion's Watch Tower, Dec 1, 1894, pg 386: "It is plain that the forming of a visible organization of such gathered out ones would be out of harmony with the spirit of the divine plan; and if done would seem to indicate on the part of the church a desire to conform to the now popular idea of organization or confederacy."
28. C. T. Russell, The Time is at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1889, page 101.
29. Studies in the Scriptures volume 4, "The Battle of Armageddon", 1897, pg xii
30. The Watchtower, February 1, 1999, page 17
31. Crompton, Robert (1996). Counting the Days to Armageddon. Cambridge: James Clarke & Co. p. 101. ISBN 0227679393.
32. ^ Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 58, 61–62. ISBN 0802079733, 9780802079732. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: invalid character (help)
33. ^ Franz, Raymond (2007). "Chapter 4". In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. ISBN 0914675168.
34. Lawson, John D., American State Trials, vol 13, Thomas Law Book Company, 1921, pg viii: "After his death and after we were in the war they issued a seventh volume of this series, entitled "The Finished Mystery," which, under the guise of being a posthumous work of Pastor Russell, included an attack on the war and an attack on patriotism, which were not written by Pastor Russell and could not have possibly been written by him."
35. Jehovah's Witnesses and the Third Reich, pp 383-84
36. "The Revelation". The Finished Mystery. pp. 247–253.
37. Rogerson, Alan (1969). Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Constable & Co, London. p. 44. ISBN 09-455940-6. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: length (help)
38. Yearbook 1975, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 93–94.
39. Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. pp. 72–77.
40. ^ Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. p. 144. ISBN 0914675168.
41. Salvation, Watch Tower Society, 1939, as cited in Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, page 76
42. Rogerson, Alan (1969). Millions Now Living Will Never Die: A Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Constable & Co, London. pp. 39, 52. ISBN 09-455940-6. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: length (help)
43. Thirty Years a Watchtower Slave, William J. Schnell, Baker, Grand Rapids, 1956, as cited by Rogerson, page 52. Rogerson notes that it is not clear exactly how many Bible Students left, but quotes Rutherford (Jehovah, 1934, page 277) as saying "only a few" who left other religions were then "in God's organisation".
44. Annual Memorial attendance figures in 1925 (90,434) with 1928 (17,380) as detailed in Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose (Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1959, pages 110, 312–313)
45. Tony Wills (A People For His Name, pg. 167) cites The Watch Tower December 1, 1927 (pg 355) in which Rutherford states, "the larger percentage" of original Bible Students had by then departed.
46. The Watch Tower November 15, 1930 pg 342 col 1
47. The Watch Tower September 15, 1931 pg 279 col 2: "Without a dissenting voice the resolution was adopted amidst great enthusiasm and rejoicing."
48. The Watch Tower October 1, 1931 pp 291
49. Our Incoming World Government – God's Kingdom. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. p. 20.
50. "A New Name", The Watch Tower, October 1, 1931, pages 296–297.
51. The Watch Tower July 15, 1933 pg 214-15: "Beginning to count from the transgression resulting by reason of the League of Nations, and the giving of notice, which must begin May 25, 1926, the twenty-three hundred days, or six years, four months, and twenty days, would end October 15, 1932 ... What, then, took place at the end of the twenty-three-hundred-day period? The Watchtower, issues of August 15 and September 1, 1932, brought before God's people the Scriptural proof that the office of "elective elder", chosen or selected by vote of creatures, does not Scripturally exist, and that therefore the selection of elders by such means should end."
52. The Watch Tower July 15, 1933 pg 214 col 2
53. The Watch Tower "The Days of Daniel", December 15, 1929 pp 375-76: "The period of 1290 days, according to the undisputed facts, had its beginning with the end of January, 1919. Three years and seven months thereafter must of necessity end with the beginning of September, 1922. What immediately followed that time that was of aid, encouragement, and comfort to the church of God? At the beginning of September, 1922, there assembled at Cedar Point, Ohio a convention of the consecrated people of God ... From September 1, 1922, a period of three years eight and one-half months (1335 days) brings us to the middle of May, 1926... On the twenty-fifth day of May, 1926, a great convention of God's anointed people assembled."
54. Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. pp. 83–84.
55. The Harp of God. 1921. pp. 231–236. states that "the Lord's second presence dates from 1874." The Harp of God at Google Books
56. "Watchtower". Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1922: 71. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help) and Prophecy. 1930. pp. 65–66. supported 1874.
57. Thomas Daniels. Historical Idealism and Jehovah's Witnesses (PDF). pp. 3–37. Retrieved 2006-02-01.
58. "Salvation Belongs to Jehovah", The Watchtower, September 15, 2002, page 24, "Rather than 'fleeing from idolatry,' as commanded in the Scriptures, would actually mean being at the very center of the ceremony. ...When national anthems are played, ...there is no need for to take the special action of sitting down. It is not as though they had specifically chosen to stand for the anthem. On the other hand, if a group are expected to stand and sing, then merely standing up out of respect but not singing would not constitute sharing in the sentiments of the song."
59. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 47–52. ISBN 0631163107.
60. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 52–55. ISBN 0631163107.
61. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. pp. 89–90. ISBN 0802079733.
62. Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God (PDF). Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1966. pp. 29–35. Retrieved 2009-06-21.
63. "How Much Longer Will It Be?". Awake!: 17–20. 1966. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
64. "Awake!". Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. October 8, 1968: 14. Does this mean that the above evidence positively points to 1975 as the complete end of this system of things? Since the Bible does not specifically state this, no man can say...If the 1970s should see intervention by Jehovah God to bring an end to a corrupt world drifting toward ultimate disintegration, that should surely not surprise us. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help)
65. "A Contrast—Missionaries with an Urgent, Lifesaving Work". Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. May 1, 1975: 285. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
66. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. p. 95. ISBN 0802079733.
67. "How Are You Using Your Life?". Our Kingdom Ministry: 63. 1974. Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world's end. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
68. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 46. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
69. Franz, Raymond. "1975—The Appropriate Time for God to Act". Crisis of Conscience (PDF). pp. 237–253. ISBN 0914675230. Retrieved 2006-07-27.
70. Singelenberg, Richard (1989). "The '1975'-prophecy and its impact among Dutch Jehovah's Witnesses". Sociological Analysis. 50 (1): 23–40. doi:10.2307/3710916. JSTOR 3710916. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help) Notes a nine percent drop in total publishers (door-to-door preachers) and a 38 per cent drop in pioneers (full-time preachers) in the Netherlands.
71. ^ Stark and Iannoccone (1997). "Why the Jehovah's Witnesses Grow So Rapidly: A Theoretical Application" (PDF): 142–143. Retrieved 2008-12-30. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help)
72. Dart, John (January 30, 1982). "Defectors Feel 'Witness' Wrath: Critics say Baptism Rise Gives False Picture of Growth". Los Angeles Times. p. B4. Cited statistics showing a net increase of publishers worldwide from 1971 to 1981 of 737,241, while baptisms totaled 1.71 million for the same period.
73. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. p. 95. ISBN 0802079733.
74. "The Watchtower". March 15, 1980: 17–18. With the appearance of the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God, ... considerable expectation was aroused regarding the year 1975. ... there were other statements published that implied that such realization of hopes by that year was more of a probability than a mere possibility. It is to be regretted that these latter statements apparently overshadowed the cautionary ones and contributed to a buildup of the expectation already initiated. ... persons having to do with the publication of the information ... contributed to the buildup of hopes centered on that date. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help)
75. Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1993. p. 106.
76. "Overseers and Ministerial Servants Theocratically Appointed". Watchtower. january 15, 2001. p. 17. {{cite news}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
77. 1977 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. p. 258.
78. First occurrence: "Cruelties Go Unchecked in Malawi". Awake!: 3. 22 March 1976. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
79. The Watchtower, October 1, 1967 pg 591-92: "Make haste to identify the visible theocratic organization of God that represents his king, Jesus Christ. It is essential for life. Doing so, be complete in accepting its every aspect. We cannot claim to love God, yet deny his Word and channel of communication. Therefore, in submitting to Jehovah's visible theocratic organization, we must be in full and complete agreement with every feature of its apostolic procedure and requirements."
80. ^ Penton, M. James (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. pp. 211–252. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
81. Twelve members as of September 2005 (See The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 26)
    Schroeder died March 8, 2006. (See The Watchtower, September 15, 2006, page 31)
    Sydlik died April 18, 2006. (See The Watchtower, January 1, 2007, page 8)
    Barber died April 8, 2007. (See The Watchtower, October 15, 2007, page 31)
    Jaracz died June 9, 2010. (See The Watchtower, November 15, 2010, page 23)
    Barr died December 4, 2010. (See The Watchtower, May 15, 2011, page 6)
82. Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. 2007 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. pp. 4, 6.
83. Botting, Heather & Gary (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7.
84. Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. p. 123. ISBN 0-914675-17-6.
85. Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. p. 153. ISBN 0-914675-17-6.
86. Yearbook, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 2010.
87. The Watchtower, January 15, 2001, pages 14–15
88. "Cooperating with the Governing Body Today". The Watchtower. March 15, 1990: 20. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Unknown parameter |DUPLICATE DATA: publisher= ignored (help)
89. "The Christian Congregation and Its Operation". The Watchtower: 599. 1 October 1977. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
90. To all Bodies of Elders in the United States, August 1, 1995
91. "Go and Make Disciples, Baptizing Them", The Watchtower, April 1, 2006, page 22.
92. What Does the Bible Really Teach. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. p. 182. Going beneath the water symbolizes that you have died to your former life course. Being raised up out of the water indicates that you are now alive to do the will of God. Remember, too, that you have made a dedication to Jehovah God himself, not to a work, a cause, other humans, or an organization.
93. From 1956, baptism candidates were asked to acknowledge they were sinners needing salvation and confirm that they had dedicated themselves unreservedly to God and to do his will as revealed through Jesus Christ and the Bible. In the June 1, 1985 Watchtower, it was announced that the questions had changed, with candidates from that point asked to confirm they had repented of their sins and dedicated themselves to do Jehovah's will, and to acknowledge that their baptism identified themselves as one of Jehovah's Witnesses "in association with God's spirit-directed organization". Critic Raymond Franz (Crisis of Conscience, page 118) states that the change in the questions requires baptism candidates to declare their submission and obligation to an earthly organization, or human authority structure. He contends: "The Watch Tower Society's second baptismal question effectively replaces God's holy Spirit with the "spirit-directed organization".
94. Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. pp. 449–464. ISBN 0914675168.
95. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 32. ISBN 0415266092. The structure of the movement and the intense loyalty demanded of each individual at every level demonstrates the characteristics of totalitarianism.
96. For examples of what Franz (p.449) says is a concept "stressed with mesmerizing frequency", see the following: "Following Faithful Shepherds with Life in View", The Watchtower, October 1, 1967, page 591, "Make haste to identify the visible theocratic organization of God that represents his king, Jesus Christ. It is essential for life. Doing so, be complete in accepting its every aspect."; The Watchtower, September 1, 2006, pg 15, "Have we formed a loyal attachment to the organization that Jehovah is using today?"; "Your Reminders Are What I Am Fond Of", The Watchtower, June 15, 2006, pg 26, "We too should remain faithful to Jehovah and to his organization regardless of injustices we suffer and regardless of what others do."; "Are You Prepared for Survival?", The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, pg 22, "Just as Noah and his God-fearing family were preserved in the ark, survival of individuals today depends on their faith and their loyal association with the earthly part of Jehovah’s universal organization."; Worship The Only True God (Watch Tower Society, 2002), pg 134, "Jehovah is guiding us today by means of his visible organization under Christ. Our attitude toward this arrangement demonstrates how we feel about the issue of sovereignty ... By being loyal to Jehovah’s organization, we show that Jehovah is our God and that we are united in worship of him."
97. You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, 1989, page 255, "It is simply not true that all religions lead to the same goal. (Matthew 7:21–23; 24:21) You must be part of Jehovah's organization, doing God's will, in order to receive his blessing of everlasting life."
98. "You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth—But How?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1983, page 12, "Jehovah is using only one organisation today to accomplish his will. To receive everlasting life in the earthly Paradise we must identify that organisation and serve God as part of it."
99. "Serving Jehovah Loyally", The Watchtower, November 15, 1992, page 21, "I determined to stay by the faithful organisation. How else can one get Jehovah's favour and blessing?" There is nowhere else to go for divine favour and life eternal."
100. "Greater Blessings Through the New Covenant", The Watchtower, February 1, 1998, page 17, "Those of spiritual Israel still remaining on earth make up 'the faithful and discreet slave.' ... Only in association with them can acceptable sacred service be rendered to God."
101. "Be Aglow With the Spirit", The Watchtower, October 15, 2009, "Those with an earthly hope should therefore recognise Christ as their head and be submissive to the Faithful and Discreet Slave and its Governing Body and to the men appointed as overseers in the congregation."
102. "Move Ahead with Jehovah's Organisation", The Watchtower, June 1, 1967, page 337, "What, can we say, is the basic principle underlying the movement of Jehovah's living organisation? It can be expressed in one word: OBEDIENCE. Loving obedience from the heart is all. This is the basic formula upon which the organisation rests and operates." (Emphasis in original.)
103. "How Jehovah Prospers His Work", The Watchtower,page.22 December 1, 1990
104. How are you funded? Jehovah’s Witnesses Official Media Web Site
105. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 92, 98–100. ISBN 0631163107.
106. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 196–207. ISBN 0631163107.
107. Bryan R. Wilson, "The Persistence of Sects", Diskus, Journal of the British Association for the Study of Religions, Vol 1, No. 2, 1993
108. Organized to Do Jehovah's Will, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2005, pages 17–18.
109. "Cooperating With the Governing Body Today,", The Watchtower, March 15, 1990, page 19.
110. "Focus on the Goodness of Jehovah's Organisation". The Watchtower: 22. 15 July 2006. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
111. "Impart God's Progressive Revelation to Mankind", The Watchtower, March 1, 1965, pp. 158–159
112. Penton, M. J. Penton. Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. pp. 165–171. ISBN 0802079733.
113. Flashes of Light—Great and Small", The Watchtower, May 15, 1995, page 15.
114. Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. University of Toronto Press. p. 165. ISBN 0802079733, 9780802079732. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: invalid character (help)
115. J. F. Rutherford, 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."
116. "The Spirit Searches into the Deep Things of God", The Watchtower, July 15, 2010, page 23, "When the time comes to clarify a spiritual matter in our day, holy spirit helps responsible representatives of 'the faithful and discreet slave' at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood. The Governing Body as a whole considers adjusted explanations. What they learn, they publish for the benefit of all."
117. "Do You See the Evidence of God's Guidance?", The Watchtower, April 15, 2011, pages 3-5, "How, then, do we react when we receive divine direction? Do we try to apply it “right afterward”? Or do we continue doing things just as we have been accustomed to doing them? Are we familiar with up-to-date directions, such as those regarding conducting home Bible studies, preaching to foreign speaking people, regularly sharing in family worship, cooperating with Hospital Liaison Committees, and conducting ourselves properly at conventions? ... Do you clearly discern the evidence of divine guidance? Jehovah uses his organization to guide us, his people, through “the wilderness” during these last days of Satan’s wicked world."
118. "Unity identifies true worship", The Watchtower, September 15, 2010, page 13.
119. "Do We Need Help to Understand the Bible?". The Watchtower: 19. February 15, 1981. True, the brothers preparing these publications are not infallible. Their writings are not inspired as are those of Paul and the other Bible writers. (2 Tim. 3:16) And so, at times, it has been necessary, as understanding became clearer, to correct views. (Prov. 4:18)
120. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. p. 172. ISBN 0802079733.
121. All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 336.
122. All Scripture is Inspired of God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1990, page 9.
123. Reasoning From The Scriptures | pp. 199–208 Jehovah's Witnesses
124. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 67. ISBN 0415266092. Materials such as The Watchtower are almost as significant to the Witnesses as the Bible, since the information is presented as the inspired work of theologians, and they are, therefore, believed to contain as much truth as biblical texts.
125. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 163. ISBN 0802079733. Since 1954 the society's officers ... have come closer and closer to admitting that it is the governing body and the society (theoretically acting for the remnant of the 144,000 of the 'faithful and discreet slave'), and not the Bible, which is the primary spiritual authority among Jehovah's Witnesses.
126. "Is Religious Truth Attainable?". The WatchTower: 6. April 15, 1995. By comparing the Witnesses' beliefs, standards of conduct, and organization with the Bible, unbiased people can clearly see that these harmonize with those of the first-century Christian congregation.
127. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 84, 89, 92, 119–120. ISBN 0631163107.
128. "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower April 1, 1986 pp. 30–31.
129. ^ James A. Beverley, Crisis of Allegiance, Welch Publishing Company, Burlington, Ontario, 1986, ISBN 0-920413-37-4, pages 25-26, 101, "For every passage in Society literature that urges members to be bold and courageous in critical pursuits, there are many others that warn about independent thinking and the peril of questioning the organization ... Fear of disobedience to the Governing Body keeps Jehovah's Witnesses from carefully checking into biblical doctrine or allegations concerning false prophecy, faulty scholarship, and injustice. Witnesses are told not to read books like this one."
130. "Keep Clear of False Worship!", The Watchtower, 15 March 2006, "True Christians keep clear of false worship, rejecting false religious teachings. This means that we avoid exposure to religious programs on radio and television as well as religious literature that promotes lies about God and his Word."
131. Question box, Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, "The faithful and discreet slave does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight."
132. Question Box, Our Kingdom Ministry, September 2007, "Throughout the earth, Jehovah’s people are receiving ample spiritual instruction and encouragement at congregation meetings, assemblies, and conventions, as well as through the publications of Jehovah’s organization. Under the guidance of his holy spirit and on the basis of his Word of truth, Jehovah provides what is needed so that all of God’s people may be fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought and remain stabilized in the faith. Surely we are grateful for Jehovah’s spiritual provisions in these last days. Thus, the faithful and discreet slave does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight."
133. "Make Your Advancement Manifest", The Watchtower, August 1, 2001, page 14, "Since oneness is to be observed, a mature Christian must be in unity and full harmony with fellow believers as far as faith and knowledge are concerned. He 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."
134. 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."
135. Holden, A. (2002). Cavorting With the Devil: Jehovah's Witnesses Who Abandon Their Faith (PDF). Department of Sociology, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YL, UK. p. Endnote . Retrieved 2009-06-21.
136. ^ Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. 1993. pp. 144–145.
137. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 105. ISBN 0631163107.
138. Revelation Its Grand Climax, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pg 36, "In the songbook produced by Jehovah’s people in 1905, there were twice as many songs praising Jesus as there were songs praising Jehovah God. In their 1928 songbook, the number of songs extolling Jesus was about the same as the number extolling Jehovah. But in the latest songbook of 1984, Jehovah is honored by four times as many songs as is Jesus. This is in harmony with Jesus’ own words: 'The Father is greater than I am.' Love for Jehovah must be preeminent, accompanied by deep love for Jesus and appreciation of his precious sacrifice and office as God’s High Priest and King."
139. The Watchtower, April 15, 1983, pg 29, "Why is God’s name, Jehovah, missing from most modern translations of the Bible? Superstition that developed among tradition-bound Jews caused them to avoid pronouncing God’s personal name, Jehovah. This has contributed to worldwide ignorance regarding the divine name. Added to this has been Christendom’s tendency to focus attention on the person of Jesus Christ, thus relegating Jehovah to second place in their triune godhead."
140. Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. p. 1019.
141. Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. 1988. p. 1019.
142. Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, What Does the Bible Say About God and Jesus?
143. "Only-begotten". Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1988. pp. 556–557.
144. ""His Vital Place in God's Purpose" and "Chief Agent of life"". Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. pp. 60–61.
145. Reasoning From the Scriptures. 1989. pp. 89–90.
146. "Angels: How They Affect Us". The Watchtower. Jehovah's Witnesses. 15 January 2006. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
147. Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. 1988. pp. 393–394.
148. Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 1. 1988. pp. 12, 126.
149. Who Is Jesus Christ?
150. "The Bible Answers Vital Questions of Our Day". The Watchtower. November 15, 1999. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
151. Insight on the Scriptures vol. 1 p. 612 Demon
152. "What Has God's Kingdom Been Doing Since 1914?", The Watchtower, October 15, 1966, pages 621–622
153. "Living Now in That Last Day of Resurrection", The Watchtower, June 15, 1979, page 26.
154. What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. pp. 87, 216.
155. What Does the Bible Really Teach?. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 2005. p. 32.
156. Reasoning From the Scriptures. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1989. p. 361.
157. Watchtower, April 1, 2004, "In one sense, human governments serve as 'God's minister,' giving structure to human society, without which chaos would rule. And some leaders have protected fundamental human rights, including the right to engage in true worship—something that Satan does not want. Still, because of the Devil's influence, no human or human institution has ever been able to bring lasting peace and security to the people."
158. "The Christian's View of the Superior Authorities", The Watchtower, November 1, 1990, page 14.
159. "Is There LIFE After Death?". The Watchtower. 2005. Retrieved 2008-09-14. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
160. Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 2. 1988. p. 1004. The...Scriptures show 'soul' to be a person, an animal, or the life that a person or an animal enjoys.
161. "Jehovah Cares For You," The Watchtower, October 15, 2002, p. 15.
162. Insight On The Scriptures, Vol 2, p. 733.
163. "Have No Fear, Little Flock", The Watchtower, February 15, 1995, pp. 18–22.
164. "A Great Crowd Rendering Sacred Service," The Watchtower February 1, 1995, pp. 14–17.
165. "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."
166. You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth,, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pg 255, "Do not conclude that there are different roads, or ways, that you can follow to gain life in God's new system. There is only one. There was just the one ark that survived the Flood, not a number of boats. And there will be only one organization — God's visible organization — that will survive the fast-approaching 'great tribulation.' It is simply not true that all religions lead to the same goal. You must be part of Jehovah's organization, doing God's will, in order to receive his blessing of everlasting life."
167. "Our Readers Ask: Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe That They Are the Only Ones Who Will Be Saved?", The Watchtower, November 1, 2008, page 28, "Jehovah's Witnesses hope to be saved. However, they also believe that it is not their job to judge who will be saved. Ultimately, God is the Judge. He decides."
168. "The Only Remedy!", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, p. 6.
169. "Who Will Be Resurrected?". The Watchtower: 17. 1 May 2005. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
170. The Government That Will Bring Paradise, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 3.
171. Insight on the Scriptures,, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Vol 1, page 310.
172. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, page 6.
173. Reasoning from the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pages 225–234.
174. "God's Kingdom—Earth's New Rulership", The Watchtower, October 15, 2000, page 10.
175. "What Has God's Kingdom Been Doing Since 1914?", The Watchtower, October 15, 1966, page 617.
176. Pay Attention to Daniel's Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, pp. 82–97
177. Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 23, 2 Timothy 3:1-5. The Bible.
178. "Deliverance by God's Kingdom Is at Hand!", The Watchtower, May 15, 2008, page 15.
179. Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, pages 235–236.
180. "Apocalypse—When?", The Watchtower, February 15, 1986, page 6.
181. Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 286.
182. The Watchtower, September 1, 1959, pp. 530–531 par. 15.
183. Armageddon—A Happy Beginning Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site
184. Penton 1997, p. 180 harvnb error: multiple targets (6×): CITEREFPenton1997 (help).
185. What Does the Bible Really Teach, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Appendix pages 213-15.
186. The Watchtower, May 15, 2006, p 6.
187. Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988,p. 788.
188. The Watchtower, May 1, 2005, p. 20.
189. The Watchtower, August 15, 2006, p. 31
190. Pay Attention to Daniel's Prophecy!, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 2006, pp. 94,95.
191. "Christ's Presence—What Does It Mean to You?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2008, page 21.
192. The Watchtower, February 1, 1996, p6.
193. "Jesus' Coming or Jesus' Presence—Which?", The Watchtower, August 15, 1996, p. 12.
194. ^ Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 64–69. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
195. "House-to-House Preaching —An Identifying Mark". Jehovah's Witnesses: Proclaimers of God's Kingdom. 1993. p. 570.
196. "Showing Lifesaving Neighbor Love". The Watchtower: 17. May 15, 1981. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
197. "Good News in 500 Languages", The Watchtower, November 1, 2009, page 24, Press release adaptation online, "These translators are part of an army of some 2,300 volunteers who work in over 190 locations around the world. They range in age from 20 to nearly 90 and expend themselves the Bible's message in 500 languages."
198. Bearing Thorough Witness About God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2009,page 63, "Do you obey the command to bear thorough witness, even if the assignment causes you some apprehension?"
199. "Determined to bear thorough witness," The Watchtower, December 15, 2008, page 19, "When the resurrected Jesus spoke to disciples gathered in Galilee, likely 500 of them, he commanded: 'Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you.' That command applies to all true Christians today."
200. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 52. ISBN 0-8029-2537-4. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: checksum (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
201. "Do You Contribute to an Accurate Report?", Our Kingdom Ministry, December 2002, page 8, "Jehovah’s organization today instructs us to report our field service activity each month ... At the end of the month, the book study overseer makes sure that all in the group have followed through on their responsibility to report their activity."
202. "Regularity in Service Brings Blessings", Our Kingdom Ministry, May 1984, page 7.
203. "Helping Irregular Publishers". Our Kingdom Ministry: 7. December 1987. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
204. "Keep the Word of Jehovah Moving Speedily". Our Kingdom Ministry: 1. October 1982. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
205. Chryssides, G.D. (1999). Exploring New Religions. Continuum International Publishing Group. p. 103. ISBN 0304336513.
206. ^ "Imitate Jehovah—Exercise Justice and Righteousness", The Watchtower, August 1, 1998, page 16.
207. "Why Living a Godly Life Brings Happiness". Knowledge that Leads to Everlasting Life. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1995. p. 118.
208. Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. 1995. p. 120.
209. Penton, M. James (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 280. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
210. "Maintain a Balanced View of the Use of Alcohol". The Watchtower: 18. 1 December 2004. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |journal= (help)
211. "The Bible's Viewpoint What Does It Mean to Be the Head of the House?". Awake!: 26. July 8, 2004. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
212. "Is Divorce the Answer?", Awake!, September 8, 2004, page 26, "Jesus later stated that "the ground of fornication" is the only basis for Scriptural divorce with the possibility of entering a new marriage."
213. Penton, M. James (1997). Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. p. 112. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3.
214. "Adultery". Insight on the Scriptures. Vol. 1. p. 53.
215. "Marriage—Why Many Walk Out", Awake!, July 8, 1993, page 6, "A legal divorce or a legal separation may provide a measure of protection from extreme abuse or willful nonsupport."
216. "When Marital Peace Is Threatened". The Watchtower: 22. 1 November 1988. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
217. "Help those who have strayed". The Watchtower. Watchtower: 8. November 15, 2008.
218. The Watchtower April 15, 1988.
219. Jehovah's Witnesses Official Media Web Site: Our History and Organization, "Do you shun former members? ... If, however, someone unrepentantly practices serious sins, such as drunkenness, stealing or adultery, he will be disfellowshipped and such an individual is avoided by former fellow-worshipers. ... The marriage relationship and normal family affections and dealings can continue. ... Disfellowshipped individuals may continue to attend religious services and, if they wish, they may receive spiritual counsel from the elders with a view to their being restored. They are always welcome to return to the faith "
220. "Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is Disfellowshipped". Our Kingdom Ministry: 3–4. August 2002. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
221. "Disfellowshipping-How to View It". The Watchtower: 24. 15 September 1981. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
222. "Appendix: How to Treat a Disfellowshipped person". Keep Yourselves in God's Love. Jehovah's Witnesses. 2008. pp. 207–209.
223. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses – Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 163. ISBN 0-414-26610-6. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: checksum (help)
224. "Make Wise Use of Your Christian Freedom", The Watchtower, June 1, 1992, page 18.
225. "Disfellowshiping—How to View It", The Watchtower, September 15, 1981, page 23.
226. "Do You Hate Lawlessness?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2011, page 31.
227. "Questions From Readers", The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30–31.
228. The most common example given is a baptised Witness who dates a non-Witness; see The Watchtower, July 15, 1999, p. 30.
229. "Should the Religions Unite?". The Watchtower: 741–742. 15 December 1953. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
230. "Is Interfaith God's Way?". The Watchtower: 69. 1 February 1952. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
231. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 202. ISBN 0631163107. The ideological argument states that, since absolute truth is unitary and exclusive of all relativisation, there can only 'logically' be one human organization to represent it. Consequently, all other religious organizations are in error and are to be strictly avoided. The absolutist view of truth further implies that, since anything less than absolute truth can only corrupt and destroy it, there can be no justification for Jehovah's witnesses having any kind of association with other religionists, however sincere the motivation might be.
232. "15 Worship That God Approves". What Does The Bible Really Teach?. p. 145.
233. Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 435–436.
234. "Live a Balanced, Simple Life", The Watchtower, July 15, 1989, page 11.
235. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses – Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 12. ISBN 0-414-26610-6. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: checksum (help)
236. Make Sure of All Things, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1953, page 279, "Association in a social way with those outside the truth is dangerous."
237. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. pp. 109–112. ISBN 0-415-26610-6.
238. Franz, Raymond (2007). In Search of Christian Freedom. Commentary Press. p. 409. ISBN 0-914675-17-6.
239. ""Each One Will Carry His Own Load", The Watchtower, March 15, 2006, page 23.
240. 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.
241. Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, March 1, 1983, p. 30
242. Worship the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, p. 159.
243. Korea government promises to adopt alternative service system for conscientious objectors
244. Education, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 2002, pp. 20–23
245. Owens, Gene (1997). "Trials of a Jehovah's Witness.(The Faith of Journalists)". Nieman Reports. {{cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
246. Racial and ethnic unity Jehovah’s Witnesses Official Media Web Site
247. Penton, M.J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed. p. i. ISBN 0802079733.
248. Reasoning From the Scriptures, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1989, pages 70–75.
249. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 91. ISBN 0415266092.
250. Muramoto, O. (January 6, 2001). "Bioethical aspects of the recent changes in the policy of refusal of blood by Jehovah's Witnesses". BMJ. 322 (7277): 37–39. doi:10.1136/bmj.322.7277.37. PMC 1119307. PMID 11141155. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
251. Jehovah's Witnesses – Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, page 183.
252. United in Worship of the Only True God, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1983, pages 156–160.
253. Bowman, R. M. (1995). Jehovah's Witnesses. Zondervan. p. 13. ISBN 0310704111. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
254. Botting, Heather (1984). The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses. University of Toronto Press. pp. 29–30. ISBN 0-8020-6545-7. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
255. "How Blood Can Save Your Life," Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, pages 13–17
256. "Questions From Readers–Do Jehovah's Witnesses accept any medical products derived from blood?". The Watchtower: 30. June 15, 2000. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
257. Sniesinski; Chen, EP; Levy, JH; Szlam, F; Tanaka, KA; et al. (2007). "Coagulopathy After Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Jehovah's Witness Patients: Management of Two Cases Using Fractionated Components and Factor VIIa" (PDF). Anesthesia & Analgesia. 104 (4): 763. doi:10.1213/01.ane.0000250913.45299.f3. PMID 17377078. Retrieved 2008-12-30. {{cite journal}}: Explicit use of et al. in: |author= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
258. "The Real Value of Blood". Awake!: 11. August 2006. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
259. Durable Power of Attorney form. Watch Tower Society. January 2001. p. 1. Examples of permitted fractions are: Interferon, Immune Serum Globulins and Factor VIII; preparations made from Hemoglobin such as PolyHeme and Hemopure. Examples of permitted procedures involving the medical use of one's own blood include: Cell Salvage, Hemodilution, Heart–Lung Machine, Dialysis, Epidural Blood Patch, Plasmapheresis, Labeling or Tagging of Blood and Platelet Gel (Autologous)
260. "Our Kingdom Ministry" (PDF). November 2006: 5–6. Retrieved 2009-06-21. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help)
261. "Jehovah's Witnesses and Medical Profession Cooperate". The Awake. 2003. Retrieved 2009-10-24. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
262. Kim Archer, "Jehovah's Witness liaisons help surgeons adapt", Tulsa World, May 15, 2007.
263. 2011 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. 2011. p. 31.
264. Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watch Tower Society. 1996–2010.
265. 2011 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. 2011. p. 31.
266. "U.S. Religious Landscape Survey Religious Affiliation: Diverse and Dynamic". Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life. 2008: 9, 30. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
267. The Association of Religion Data Archives
268. David Van Biema, "America's Unfaithful Faithful," Time magazine, February 25, 2008.
269. Jubber, Ken (1977). "The Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses in Southern Africa". Social Compass,. 24 (1): 121, . doi:10.1177/003776867702400108.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link)
270. "What Does the Purple Triangle Mean?", The Watchtower, February 15, 2006, p32.
271. Shulman, William L. A State of Terror: Germany 1933–1939. Bayside, New York: Holocaust Resource Center and Archives.
272. .
273. Kaplan, William (1989). State and Salvation. Toronto: Univ. of Toronto Press.
274. Yaffee, Barbara (1984-09-09). "Witnesses Seek Apology for Wartime Persecution". The Globe in Mail: 4. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
275. "Operation North" Template:Ru icon
276. Валерий Пасат ."Трудные страницы истории Молдовы (1940–1950)". Москва: Изд. Terra, 1994 Template:Ru icon
277. "Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom",chapter 22,page.490
278. "Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses 1991",page.221
279. Judging Jehovah's Witnesses, Shawn Francis Peters, University Press of Kansas: 2000
280. Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1993, pp. 679–701.
281. "Following Faithful Shepherds with Life in View", The Watchtower, October 1, 1967, page 591, "Make haste to identify the visible theocratic organization of God that represents his king, Jesus Christ. It is essential for life. Doing so, be complete in accepting its every aspect ... in submitting to Jehovah's visible theocratic organization, we must be in full and complete agreement with every feature of its apostolic procedure and requirements."
282. "Loyal to Christ and His Faithful Slave", The Watchtower, April 1, 2007, page 24, "When we loyally submit to the direction of the faithful slave and its Governing Body, we are submitting to Christ, the slave's Master."
283. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 89, 95, 103, 120, 204, 221. ISBN 0631163107.
284. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 22. ISBN 0415266092.
285. Alan Rogerson, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, Constable, 1969, page 50.
286. ^ Osamu Muramoto, "Bioethics of the refusal of blood by Jehovah's Witnesses, part 1", Journal of Medical Ethics, August 1998, Vol 24, Issue 4, page 223-230.
287. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 163. ISBN 0415266092.
288. "Exposing the Devil's Subtle Designs" and "Armed for the Fight Against Wicked Spirits", The Watchtower, January 15, 1983
289. "Serving Jehovah Shoulder to Shoulder", The Watchtower, August 15, 1981, page 28.
290. "Jehovah's Theocratic Organization Today", The Watchtower, February 1, 1952, pages 79–81.
291. "Avoid Independent Thinking". The Watchtower: 27. 15 January 1983. From the very outset of his rebellion Satan called into question God's way of doing things. He promoted independent thinking. ... How is such independent thinking manifested? A common way is by questioning the counsel that is provided by God's visible organization. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
292. "Avoid Independent Thinking". The Watchtower: 20. February 15, 1979. In a world where people are tossed about by confusing winds of religious doctrine, Jehovah's people need to be stable, full-grown Christians. (Eph. 4:13, 14) Their position must be steadfast, not shifting quickly because of independent thinking or emotional pressures. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
293. The Watchtower: 277–278. May 1, 1964. It is through the columns of The Watchtower that Jehovah provides direction and constant Scriptural counsel to his people, and it requires careful study and attention to details in order to apply this information, to get a full understanding of the principles involved, and to assure ourselves of right thinking on these matters. It is in this way that we "are thoroughly able to grasp mentally with all the holy ones" the fullness of our commission and of the preaching responsibility that Jehovah has placed on all Christians as footstep followers of his Son. Any other course would produce independent thinking and cause division. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)
294. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 204, 221. ISBN 0631163107. The habit of questioning or qualifying Watch Tower doctrine is not only under-developed among the Witnesses: it is strenuously combated at all organizational levels.
295. Botting, Heather (1984), The Orwellian World of Jehovah's Witnesses, University of Toronto Press, p. 90, ISBN 0-8020-6545-7, Most Witnesses, although capable of intelligent, reasonable thought, have as part of the payment for paradise delegated authority to the organization for directing their lives ... and finally abrogate all responsibility and rights over their personal lives—in effect, allowing the society to do their thinking for them. {{citation}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
296. Alan Rogerson, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, Constable, 1969, page 178, "The newly converted Witness must conform immediately to the doctrines of the Watchtower Society, thus whatever individuality of mind he possessed before conversion is liable to be eradicated if he stays in the movement.".
297. James A. Beverley, Crisis of Allegiance, Welch Publishing Company, Burlington, Ontario, 1986, ISBN 0-920413-37-4, pages 25–26, 101.
298. Holden, Andrew (2002). Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement. Routledge. p. 153. ISBN 0415266092.
299. Alan Rogerson, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, Constable, 1969, page 2, "In addition to the prevalent ignorance outside the Witness movement, there is much ignorance within it. It will soon become obvious to the reader that the Witnesses are an indoctrinated people whose beliefs and thoughts are shaped by the Watchtower Society."
300. R. Franz, "In Search of Christian Freedom", chapter 12
301. ECHR Point 130, 118
302. Penton, M. J. (1997). Apocalypse Delayed (2nd ed.). University of Toronto Press. pp. 174–176. ISBN 0802079733.
303. Samuel Haas,Journal of Biblical Literature, Vol. 74, No. 4, (Dec. 1955), p. 283, "This work indicates a great deal of effort and thought as well as considerable scholarship, it is to be regretted that religious bias was allowed to colour many passages."
304. See Ankerberg, John and John Weldon, 2003, The New World Translation of the Jehovah's Witnesses, accessible online
305. Rhodes R, The Challenge of the Cults and New Religions, The Essential Guide to Their History, Their Doctrine, and Our Response, Zondervan, 2001, p. 94
306. Bruce M Metzger, "Jehovah's Witnesses and Jesus Christ," Theology Today, (April 1953 p. 74); see also Metzger, "The New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures," The Bible Translator (July 1964)
307. H.H. Rowley, How Not To Translate the Bible, The Expository Times, 1953; 65; 41
308. Jason BeDuhn (2003). Truth in Translation: Accuracy and Bias in English Translations of the New Testament. University Press of America. ISBN 0761825568.
309. "The New World Translation Scholarly and Honest". The Watchtower: 26. 1 March 1991.
310. G. Hébert/eds., "Jehovah's Witnesses", The New Catholic Encyclopedia, Gale, 2005, Vol. 7, p. 751.
311. Metzger, Bruce M., The New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures, The Bible Translator 15/3 (July 1964), pp. 150–153. UBS
312. "God's Name and the New Testament", The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1984, pages 23, 27.
313. Journal of Biblical Literature (Vol.96). University of Georgia: 63. 1977. Recent discoveries in Egypt and the Judean Desert allow us to see first hand the use of God's name in pre-Christian times. These discoveries are significant for N T studies in that they form a literary analogy with the earliest Christian documents and may explain how NT authors used the divine name. In the following pages we will set forth a theory that the divine name, הוהי (and possibly abbreviations of it), was originally written in the NT quotations of and allusions to the O T and that in the course of time it was replaced mainly with the surrogate . This removal of the Tetragram, in our view, created a confusion in the minds of early Gentile Christians about the relationship between the 'Lord God' and the 'Lord Christ' which is reflected in the MS tradition of the NT text itself. {{cite journal}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help); Unknown parameter |first name= ignored (help); Unknown parameter |last name= ignored (help)
314. Girdlestone's Synonyms of the Old Testament. Hendrickson Publisher. 2000.
315. Insight on the Scriptures Vol. 2. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. p. 10. from book Synonyms of the Old Testament, "If that version had retained the word , or had even used one Greek word for Jehovah and another for Adonai, such usage would doubtless have been retained in the discourses and arguments of the N. T. Thus our Lord, in quoting the 110th Psalm, instead of saying, 'The Lord said unto my Lord,' might have said, 'Jehovah said unto Adoni.' Supposing a Christian scholar were engaged in translating the Greek Testament into Hebrew, he would have to consider, each time the word Κύριος occurred, whether there was anything in the context to indicate its true Hebrew representative; and this is the difficulty which would arise in translating the N. T. into all languages if the title Jehovah had been allowed to stand in the O. T. The Hebrew Scriptures would be a guide in many passages." (Synonyms of the Old Testament, 1897, p. 43)
316. Rick Meyers. "Is The Name YHWH in the New Testament?". {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |site= ignored (help)
317. "Messengers of Godly Peace Pronounced Happy", The Watchtower, May 1, 1997, page 21
318. Jehovah's Witnesses – Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Society, 1993, page 708.
319. "Execution of the "Great Harlot" Nears", The Watchtower, October 15, 1980, page 17.
320. Raymond Franz cites numerous examples. In Crisis of Conscience, 2002, pg. 173, he quotes from "They Shall Know That a Prophet Was Among Them", (The Watchtower, April 1, 1972,) which states that God had raised Jehovah's Witnesses as a prophet "to warn (people) of dangers and declare things to come" He also cites "Identifying the Right Kind of Messenger" (The Watchtower, May 1, 1997, page 8) which identifies the Witnesses as his "true messengers ... by making the messages he delivers through them come true", in contrast to "false messengers", whose predictions fail. In In Search of Christian Freedom, 2007, he quotes The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah – How? (1971, pg 70, 292) which describes Witnesses as the modern Ezekiel class, "a genuine prophet within our generation". The Watch Tower book noted: "Concerning the message faithfully delivered by the Ezekiel class, Jehovah positively states that it 'must come true' ... those who wait undecided until it does 'come true' will also have to know that a prophet himself had proved to be in the midst of them." He also cites "Execution of the Great Harlot Nears", (The Watchtower, October 15, 1980, pg 17) which claims God gives the Witnesses "special knowledge that others do not have ... advance knowledge about this system's end".
321. The Watchtower, Jan. 15, 1959, pp. 39–41
322. Crompton, Robert (1996). Counting the Days to Armageddon. Cambridge: James Clarke & Co. pp. 9, 115. ISBN 0227679393.
323. Jehovah's Witnesses – Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1993, pages 78, 632.
324. Beckford, James A. (1975). The Trumpet of Prophecy: A Sociological Study of Jehovah's Witnesses. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. pp. 219–221. ISBN 0631163107.
325. James A. Beverley, Crisis of Allegiance, Welch Publishing Company, Burlington, Ontario, 1986, ISBN 0-920413-37-4, page 86–91.
326. ^ "Why So Many False Alarms?", Awake!, March 22, 1993, pages 3–4, footnote.
327. Revelation – It's Grand Climax, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1988, page 9.
328. "False Prophets". Reasoning From the Scriptures. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. p. 137. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |subheading= ignored (help)
329. "To Whom Shall We Go but Jesus Christ?". Watchtower: 23. March 1, 1979. the "faithful and discreet slave" has alerted all of God's people to the sign of the times indicating the nearness of God's Kingdom rule. In this regard, however, it must be observed that this "faithful and discreet slave" was never inspired, never perfect. Those writings by certain members of the "slave" class that came to form the Christian part of God's Word were inspired and infallible , but that is not true of other writings since.
330. "Allow No Place for the Devil!", The Watchtower, March 15, 1986, page 19
331. Why have there been changes over the years in the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses?,"Jehovah's Witnesses", Reasoning From the Scriptures ,Watchtower Bible and Tract Society,page 205
332. "Another Church Sex Scandal" (April 29, 2003). CBS News.
333. Cutrer, Corrie (March 5, 2001). "Witness Leaders Accused of Shielding Molesters", Christianity Today.
334. "Jehovah's Witnesses and Child Protection". Jehovah's Witnesses Official Media Web Site. Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. 1997. Retrieved 2010-03-13. See to confirm date.
335. "To all Bodies of Elders in the United States". WTBS. 1995-08-01. Retrieved 2010-03-13.
336. n/a (1977). Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock. Brooklyn, New York: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. p. 138. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
337. "Let Us ABHOR What Is Wicked". The Watchtower: 27–29. 1997-01-01. Retrieved 2010-03-13. {{cite journal}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help); Invalid |ref=harv (help)

Further reading

• Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses by M. James Penton. Penton, professor emeritus of history at University of Lethbridge and a former member of the religion, examines the history of Jehovah's Witnesses, and their doctrines. Read selections from: Apocalypse Delayed: the Story of Jehovah's Witnesses University of Toronto Press. ISBN 0-8020-7973-3 (Canada, 1998) (Google book search)
• Jehovah's Witnesses: Portrait of a Contemporary Religious Movement by Andrew Holden. An academic study on the sociological aspects of Jehovah's Witnesses phenomenon. Publisher: Routledge; 1st edition 2002, ISBN 978–0415266109.
• Jehovah's Witnesses—Proclaimers of God's Kingdom (1993) by Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. Official history of the development of the beliefs, practices, and organisational structure of Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Counting the Days to Armageddon by Robert Crompton (1996). A detailed examination of the development of Jehovah's Witnesses' eschatology. James Clarke & Co, Cambridge, ISBN 0-227-67939-3.
• Millions Now Living Will Never Die by Alan Rogerson. Detailed history of the Watch Tower movement, particularly its early years, a summary of Witness doctrines and the organizational and personal framework in which Witnesses conduct their lives. Constable & Co, London, 1969. SBN 094559406
• State and Salvation by William Kaplan (1989). Documents the Witnesses' fight for civil rights in Canada and the US amid political persecution during World War II. University of Toronto Press, ISBN 0-8020-5842-6.

External links

Official sites

• Jehovah's Witnesses: Watch Tower Society Official Web Site
• Jehovah's Witnesses: Office of Public Information and Archives
• Official website for distribution of publications in various digital formats

Other sites

• Strictly Genteel Theocratic Resources – Scans of complete books and booklets from Russell's era to Knorr's.
• 'Knocking' – A documentary about Jehovah's Witnesses. Sample Trailer
• Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Grow So Rapidly: A Theoretical Explanation – Theory documented by sociologists Rodney Stark & Laurence R. Iannaccone.
• Who are Jehovah's Witnesses, What are their beliefs Chapter from book, Religious Denominations In The United States by Frank S. Mead, Samuel S. Hill and Craig D. Atwood, (2005). Abingdon Press.

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• Bible Student movement
• Jehovah's Witnesses
• Premillennialism
• Restorationism
• Christian new religious movements
• Nontrinitarian denominations