Jehovah's Witnesses and Their Stance on Military Service and Politics

For Jehovah's Witnesses, avoiding participation in military service and holding political power is rooted in a deep understanding of Biblical teachings and Christian ethics. Their beliefs not only distance them from institutional military conflict but also keep them separate from worldly political power. The core of their stance stems from a profound commitment to Jesus' commandments and teachings, particularly found in the New Testament.

Prohibitive Reasons Behind Jehovah's Witnesses' Refusal to Participate in Military

The reasons behind Jehovah's Witnesses' refusal to participate in military service are deeply rooted in their interpretation of Biblical teachings and the law of love. One of the primary reasons is the pursuit of peace and a non-violent path. Article 149 of the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures explicitly states: "If his nation is at war, he will not fight in it for any reason. He will object to military service on conscientious grounds under any conditions. He will conform to the laws of his country in this matter as far as they permit, but he does not obey any commands to fight." This principle is grounded in Jesus' command to love one another, as seen in John 13:34-35:

"34 I am giving you a new commandment that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

Biblical Basis for Their Political and Military Positions

Jehovah's Witnesses find further support in the Bible itself. They believe that Jesus, being a rejected specimen of God's government, did not engage in worldly governmental affairs. Instead, he promoted the Kingdom of God that transcends earthly political structures. This can be seen in several passages in the New Testament:

"4 For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly but powerful by God for overturning strongly entrenched things. 5 For we are overturning reasonings and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God and we are bringing every thought into captivity to make it obedient to the Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)

Furthermore, Jesus' words to the soldier who had asked him about taking up a sword are significant. Matthew 26:52 records:

"52 Then Jesus said to him: 'Return your sword to its place for all those who take up the sword will perish by the sword.'

These teachings align with the Witnesses' perspective on being part of God's heavenly kingdom, separate from the conflicts of this world and the political structures of the earth. As Jesus said in John 17:16:

"16 They are no part of the world just as I am no part of the world.

Thus, Jehovah's Witnesses view themselves as part of God's Kingdom, with Christ Jesus as their king. Their allegiance is not to worldly governments but to the Kingdom of God, as stated in Revelation 11:15:

"15 The seventh angel blew his trumpet. And there were loud voices in heaven saying: ‘The kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ and he will rule as king forever and ever.’”

Impact of Their Stance on Their Lives and Communities

The commitment to these principles affects Jehovah's Witnesses' daily lives and their relationship with society. In war times, they maintain their stance by refusing to serve in the military, a decision that often leads to incarceration in some countries. While the media and government do not typically highlight their contributions, Jehovah's Witnesses continue to live by their convictions. Despite these challenges, they remain committed to their beliefs and their pursuit of a peaceful existence.

Conclusion

The refusal of Jehovah's Witnesses to participate in military service and hold political power is a profound expression of their faith. Rooted in the teachings of the Bible and guided by a deep sense of Christian ethics, their stance not only aligns with Jesus' own life and teachings but also serves as a testament to their commitment to a life of non-violence and peace.