Why Jehovah's Witnesses Teach the Wrong Thing at the Wrong Time

Jehovah's Witnesses, while well-intentioned, often propagate teachings that may be misplaced or misguided from the perspective of traditional Christian theology. This article delves into the reasons why some believe their teachings are not aligned with the rightness or timing of biblical instruction.

The Rightness and Timing of Biblical Teachings

One of the fundamental differences between Jehovah's Witnesses and mainstream Christian denominations is their stance on the timing and nature of biblical teachings. Jehovah's Witnesses believe that certain truths should only be taught at specific times in God's plan. This belief is rooted in the idea of predestination. On the contrary, many Christians view the Bible as a timeless and unchanging guide that must be taught and followed at all times.

Central to this belief is the understanding that none of us can truly know God's plan, as none of us are with the angels and God in heaven. God's timing is not our timing. He instructs his followers to be prepared and to watch for the signs given in the New Testament. This perspective supports the idea that Jesus's sacrifice is sufficient for salvation, as it is not dependent on a specific timeline or condition.

Charles Taze Russell and the Bible

The origins of Jehovah's Witness beliefs can be traced back to Charles Taze Russell, a Pennsylvania newspaper editor who established the Bible Student movement in the late 19th century. Russell's version of the Bible was heavily influenced by his own interpretations and theological arguments. He encouraged his followers to repeat his talking points and use Watchtower tracts to proselytize, often restricting those who challenged his teachings.

Russell's teachings departed significantly from orthodox Christian beliefs. His version of the Bible was meticulously edited to align with his theories, which often skewed historical and theological concepts. This practice of editing and misrepresenting the Bible can be seen as a deviation from the traditional understanding and interpretation of biblical texts.

The Dangers of Jehovah's Witnesses' teaching

The teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses are not merely misguided or outdated; they are potentially dangerous. Their rejection of key Christian doctrines such as the deity of Jesus Christ and the existence of Hell are deeply problematic. Jesus, the Son of God, explicitly referred to himself as "God incarnate" in the New Testament. This is a central tenet of Christian faith, and to deny this truth is to misrepresent the fundamental nature of who Jesus is.

Regarding the concept of Hell, Jehovah's Witnesses teach that it is a state of non-existence where life and conscious thought end at the grave. This interpretation not only contradicts the clear statements of Jesus but also strips away the emotional and psychological consequences of sin. The idea of Hell being a place where people suffer and experience sorrow and gnashing of teeth is explicitly mentioned multiple times in the New Testament. To claim that Hell does not exist is to call God a liar, according to the Bible.

A Call to Return to the True Savior

Given the nuances of their teachings, it is imperative for Jehovah's Witnesses to reassess their beliefs and return to the teachings of the true Jesus Christ. The Bible itself provides a clear path to salvation through faith in Jesus. It is essential to start with the Gospel of John, which provides a foundational understanding of who Jesus is and what his teachings mean. From there, one can delve into both Old and New Testaments, alternating between the two to gain a more comprehensive understanding of biblical truths.

Some key verses that provide insight into Jesus's teachings include:

"And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us". John 1:14

"I AM the way the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me". John 14:6

"For I did not come into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world". John 3:17

"And this is eternal life that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent". John 17:3

"But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name". John 1:12

These verses highlight the importance of faith in Jesus and the path to salvation. By embracing these teachings, Jehovah's Witnesses can find the truth and reconciliation with God's plan for humanity.

In conclusion, while Jehovah's Witnesses have made a significant impact in spreading their beliefs, it is crucial to revisit and reassess these teachings to align with the true message of salvation as presented in the Bible. The journey towards understanding and accepting the true teachings of Jesus is a transformative path that can lead to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God.