This post is dedicated to exposing blatant mis-truths. Things that the WBTS says to make it sound like the world is a far worse place than even the evening news would have you believe. Things to make you so scared of 'worldly' people that you will never leave. Things said that are simply not true, and can only be a control method.
Here is a sample, the daily text for
Tuesday, May 11 2010
Quickly they forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel.—Ps.106:13.
Some may have left God’s flock because they did not agree with some Scriptural teaching. It may be helpful to remind an inactive one that “the faithful and discreet slave” is dispensing excellent spiritual food. (Matt. 24:45) That is how the person originally learned the truth. So why should he not be determined to walk in the truth again? (2 John 4) When endeavoring to help those who have strayed from God’s flock, the elder might refer to the disciples who abandoned Jesus because of rejecting one of his teachings. (John 6:53, 66) By cutting off association with Christ and his faithful followers, they lost their spirituality and their joy. Have those who stopped associating with the Christian congregation found another place where there is rich spiritual food? No, for there is none! w08 11/15 2:10, 11
Is this really true? No it is not. Something that the Watchtower Society does NOT report on is that many many have left and kept their love of God and spirituality intact. In fact, many examples can be found of those who have actually found satisfying spiritual food outside the confines of the Watchtower Organization.
and this one:
The June 15th WT says on page 9 :
"Many who today are members of the Christian congregation can tell you that before learning of and adopting Jehovah's righteous standards, they lived without moral restrain. Yet, they were unsatisfied and unhappy. They found peace only when they began associating with God's people and living in accord with Bible principles.
In contrast, some who in the past chose to leave the 'safe water' of the Christian congregation now bitterly regret that decision. One sister, whom we will call Tanya, explains that she was "raised around the truth," but when she was 16, she left the congregation to "pursue worldly enticements." Among the results she experienced were an unwanted pregnancy and an abortion. She now says: "The three years I spent away from the congregation left ugly scars on my emotions that will not go away. Something the continues to haunt me is that I killed my unborn child.....I want to tell all the young ones who are wishing they could 'taste' the world even for just a little while: 'Don't!' It may taste good at first, but it leaves an extremely bitter aftertaste. The world has nothing but misery to offer. I know. I tasted it. Stay in Jehovah's organization! It's the only way of life that brings happiness."
Just think what would become of you if you were to abandon the protective environment of the Christian congregation. Many, recalling their futile course of life before they accepted the truth, simply shudder at the thought. (John 6:68,69) You can continue to find security and protection from the woes and misery so common in Satan's world by staying in close company with your Christian brothers and sisters. Association with them and regular attendence at congregation meetings will continually remind you of the wisdom of Jehovah's righteous standards and will encourage you to live by them. You have every reason to 'laud Jehovah in the big congregation,' just as the psalmist did.-Ps 35:18."
Is this true? Is staying in 'Jehovah's organization' the ONLY way of life that brings happiness? What can actually happen should you leave?
Speaking from my experience, I am very happy. I did NOT turn to drugs or alcohol, or become a prostiture. I am married, have a great relationship with my children and have a very fullfilling life with good friends and a wonderful family.
How can that be? According to the Watchtower Society, this cannot be so, as THEY are the only place wher people can be happy.
Take note! There are in reality, tens of thousands of Ex Witnesses that are very very happy.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Watchtower magazine deceptive reprints
This post is about blatant lies.
Dictionary.com defines a lie thus:
lie [ lahy ] Show IPA noun, verb,lied, ly·ing.
–noun
1. a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive; an
intentional untruth; a falsehood.
2. something intended or serving to convey a false impression;
imposture.
3. an inaccurate or false statement.
4. the charge or accusation of lying.
–verb (used without object)
5. to speak falsely or utter untruth knowingly, as with intent to
deceive.
6. to express what is false; convey a false impression.
When i was a Jehovah's witness, the very thought of whether the organization could lie or deceive was abhorent. Unthinkable. Every thing was not only believable but guarenteed to be true. The holy spirit directed men of the Governing Body were the very epitome of uprightness and truth.
What i want to document here are things that are quite frankly, lies. The very defintions as listed by dictionary.com.
Things stated to make us think that what was said, was never said. Things done that are denied.
First, a real good one where they lie about what they actually said.
The Watchtower magazine of Jan 1 1989 page 12.
imposture.
3. an inaccurate or false statement.
Yes. In the bound volume they are giving a false impression of what was actually said. It is a blatant inaccurate and false statement. Was it a mistake? A 'typo' that slipped passed the Governing Body? Perhaps it was, we will never know. But either way, it could have been amended by telling the brotherhood that an error had been made and it was corrected in the bound volume. But no, nothing said and they deliberatly perpertrated a fraud.
It is not the first time and i suspect it will not be the last time this is done. In law, any Corporation that misrepresents its past statements or history is commiting fraud.
Dictionary.com defines a lie thus:
lie [ lahy ] Show IPA noun, verb,lied, ly·ing.
–noun
1. a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive; an
intentional untruth; a falsehood.
2. something intended or serving to convey a false impression;
imposture.
3. an inaccurate or false statement.
4. the charge or accusation of lying.
–verb (used without object)
5. to speak falsely or utter untruth knowingly, as with intent to
deceive.
6. to express what is false; convey a false impression.
When i was a Jehovah's witness, the very thought of whether the organization could lie or deceive was abhorent. Unthinkable. Every thing was not only believable but guarenteed to be true. The holy spirit directed men of the Governing Body were the very epitome of uprightness and truth.
What i want to document here are things that are quite frankly, lies. The very defintions as listed by dictionary.com.
Things stated to make us think that what was said, was never said. Things done that are denied.
First, a real good one where they lie about what they actually said.
The Watchtower magazine of Jan 1 1989 page 12.
So, when we got our copy back in 89 this is what we read. It actually sparked off a bit of conjecture that Armageddon would thus have to come by the year 2000. Not that this was said in print but this paragraph had that effect none the less.BUT, when the bound volume came out later what do we find? Below is the same page and paragraph but from the bound volume that most Jehovah's Witnesses would have on the shelf, the single issue likely long discarded
Now i will also point out that the WT2008 Library says the same.
What is the lie? Answered by Dictionary.com:
2. something intended or serving to convey a false impression;imposture.
3. an inaccurate or false statement.
Yes. In the bound volume they are giving a false impression of what was actually said. It is a blatant inaccurate and false statement. Was it a mistake? A 'typo' that slipped passed the Governing Body? Perhaps it was, we will never know. But either way, it could have been amended by telling the brotherhood that an error had been made and it was corrected in the bound volume. But no, nothing said and they deliberatly perpertrated a fraud.
It is not the first time and i suspect it will not be the last time this is done. In law, any Corporation that misrepresents its past statements or history is commiting fraud.
Monday, March 1, 2010
New Light
"New light" is perhaps the single most important 'doctrine' of the Jehovah's Witnesses.
It is the teaching or understanding of how God reveals new or updated information to the worshippers. It is not unique to the Jehovah's Witnesses either. Other religions use the concept too.
As a child or teenager in the Witness Organization, it is vital that you know just how it is that teachings get changed and how they do it. The fact is that sometimes they go back and forwards between doctrines as if the holy spirit cant make up its mind.
The primary scripture used to support this 'idea' is Proverbs 4:18...
"But the path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established."
Watchtower 2/15 2006: The article is used to demonstrate 'new light' at work...
Walking in the Path of Increasing Light
“The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.”—PROVERBS 4:18.
WHO can better describe the effect that the rising sun has on the darkness of the night than the very Source of light, Jehovah God? (Psalm 36:9) ‘When the morning light takes hold on the ends of the earth,’ God says, ‘the earth transforms itself like clay under a seal, and things take their station as in clothing.’ (Job 38:12-14) With increasing light from the sun, earth’s features take shape and become clearer, just as soft clay undergoes a transformation upon receiving an imprint from an emblem on a seal.
2 Jehovah is also the Source of spiritual light. (Psalm 43:3) While the world remains in dense darkness, the true God continues to shed light upon his people. With what result? The Bible answers: “The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.” (Proverbs 4:18) Increasing light from Jehovah continues to illuminate the path of his people. It refines them organizationally, doctrinally, and morally.
Enlightenment Leads to Organizational Refinements
3 Through the prophet Isaiah, Jehovah foretold: “Instead of the copper I shall bring in gold, and instead of the iron I shall bring in silver, and instead of the wood, copper, and instead of the stones, iron.” (Isaiah 60:17) Just as replacing an inferior material with a superior one denotes improvement, Jehovah’s Witnesses have experienced improvements in their organizational arrangements all through “the conclusion of the system of things,” or “the last days.”—Matthew 24:3; 2 Timothy 3:1.
4 In the early part of the last days, the congregations of Bible Students, as Jehovah’s Witnesses were then known, democratically elected their elders and deacons. Some elders, however, did not have the genuine spirit of evangelizing. Some not only were reluctant to participate in the preaching work themselves but also discouraged others from sharing in it. So in 1919 a new office was instituted in each congregation—that of a service director. The service director was not elected by the congregation but was appointed theocratically to his position by the branch office of God’s people. The responsibilities of the appointed director included organizing the preaching work, assigning territories, and encouraging participation in the field ministry. During the years that followed, the Kingdom-preaching work received a tremendous stimulus.
5 All in the congregation were further invigorated by the exhortation “Advertise, advertise, advertise, the King and his kingdom,” given in 1922 at the Bible Students’ convention at Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. By 1927 field service was organized to the point that Sunday was designated as the most suitable day for participating in the house-to-house preaching work. Why that day? Because Sunday was the day when most people were off work. Jehovah’s Witnesses today manifest the same spirit by endeavoring to call on people at times when they are most likely to be at home, such as on weekends and in the evenings.
6 A great impetus to the Kingdom-proclamation work came on Sunday afternoon, July 26, 1931, when a resolution was adopted, first at a convention in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., and thereafter around the world. In part, the resolution stated: “We are servants of Jehovah God commissioned to do a work in his name, and, in obedience to his commandment, to deliver the testimony of Jesus Christ, and to make known to the people that Jehovah is the true and Almighty God; therefore we joyfully embrace and take the name which the mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah’s witnesses.” (Isaiah 43:10) How clearly that new name defined the primary activity of all of those bearing that name! Yes, Jehovah had work for all his servants to share in. The overall response was enthusiastic indeed!
7 Many elders humbly devoted themselves to the preaching work. In some places, though, elected elders put up considerable resistance to the idea that everyone in the congregation should participate in the public ministry. However, further improvements were in sight. In 1932 the congregations received instruction through The Watchtower to discontinue the electing of elders and deacons. Instead, they were to elect a service committee composed of spiritual men who participated in the public preaching work. Oversight was thus entrusted to those who actively shared in the ministry, and the work moved ahead.
Increased Light Means Further Improvements
8 The light was “getting lighter and lighter.” In 1938 the use of elections was eliminated altogether. All servants in the congregation were to be appointed theocratically under the oversight of “the faithful and discreet slave.” (Matthew 24:45-47) The change was readily accepted by practically all the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the work of witnessing continued to bear fruit.
9 Beginning October 1, 1972, another adjustment in congregational oversight became effective. The arrangement of oversight by a body of elders was instituted in the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide, replacing oversight by just one congregation servant, or overseer. This new arrangement has provided tremendous encouragement for mature men to qualify to take the lead in the congregation. (1 Timothy 3:1-7) As a result, a greater number of brothers have gained experience in caring for congregational responsibilities. How valuable they have proved to be in shepherding the many new ones who have accepted Bible truth!
10 The members of the Governing Body were organized into six committees, and starting on January 1, 1976, all the activities of the organization and of the congregations around the earth came under the supervision of these committees. What a blessing it has proved to be to have all aspects of the Kingdom work directed by a “multitude of counselors”!—Proverbs 15:22; 24:6.
11 The year 1992 saw still another refinement, one that is comparable to what happened after the Israelites and others returned from exile in Babylon. Back at that time, there were not a sufficient number of Levites to care for temple service. So non-Israelite Nethinim were given more to do in helping the Levites. Accordingly, to assist the faithful and discreet slave class in caring for its increasing earthly interests, in 1992 some of the “other sheep” received added service responsibilities. They were appointed as helpers to the Governing Body committees.—John 10:16.
12 What has resulted from all of this? “I will appoint peace as your overseers and righteousness as your task assigners,” says Jehovah. (Isaiah 60:17) There is “peace” among Jehovah’s servants today, and love of “righteousness” has become their ‘task assigner’—the force that impels them to serve God. They are well-organized to carry out the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work.—Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.
Jehovah Illuminates the Path Doctrinally
13 Jehovah is also progressively illuminating the path of his people doctrinally. Revelation 12:1-9 provides an example. The account refers to three symbolic characters—“a woman” who is pregnant and gives birth, a “dragon,” and “a son, a male.” Do you know whom each figure represents? They were identified in an article entitled “Birth of the Nation,” which appeared in the March 1, 1925, issue of The Watch Tower. That article gave God’s people a better understanding of the prophecies about the birth of the Kingdom, insight that made it clear that there exist two distinct organizations—Jehovah’s and Satan’s. Then in 1927/28, God’s people recognized that Christmas and birthday celebrations are unscriptural, and they discontinued observing such.
14 The 1930’s saw further light shed on three doctrinal truths. For years, the Bible Students had known that the great multitude, or the “great crowd,” spoken of at Revelation 7:9-17 was different from the 144,000, who would rule with Christ as kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1-5) However, the identity of the great multitude remained unclear. Just as increasing morning light causes otherwise obscure objects to take on shape and color, in 1935 the great multitude was identified as those who survive “the great tribulation,” with the prospect of living forever on earth. Later in the same year came a clarification that affected school-age children of Jehovah’s Witnesses in a number of countries. While patriotic fervor was running high the world over, the Witnesses recognized that saluting the flag is much more than a mere formalism. In the following year, another doctrinal truth, that Christ died on a stake, not a cross, was explained.—Acts 10:39.
15 In the wake of World War II, during which it had become standard practice to treat wounded soldiers with blood transfusions, there was increased light on the sanctity of blood. The July 1, 1945, issue of The Watchtower encouraged “all worshipers of Jehovah who seek eternal life in his new world of righteousness to respect the sanctity of blood and to conform themselves to God’s righteous rulings concerning this vital matter.”
16 In 1946 a need was seen for a fresh Bible translation that took advantage of the latest scholarship and was not tainted by dogmas based on traditions of Christendom. Work on such a translation began in December 1947. In 1950 the New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures was released in English. The Hebrew Scriptures in English came in five volumes, released progressively beginning in 1953. The final volume was released in 1960, a little over 12 years after the translation project began. The complete New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures in one volume was released in 1961. Now available in many languages, this translation has some outstanding features. It restores the divine name, Jehovah. Moreover, its literal rendering of the original writings has provided the basis for continuous progress in the understanding of divine truth.
17 Clarification of “the superior authorities” of Romans 13:1 and the extent of a Christian’s subjection to them came in 1962. An in-depth study of the 13th chapter of Romans and Scriptural texts such as Titus 3:1, 2 and 1 Peter 2:13, 17 made it clear that the expression “superior authorities” refers, not to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, but to human governmental authorities.
18 In the years that followed, the path of the righteous ones continued to get brighter and brighter. In 1985 light was shed upon what it means to be declared righteous “for life” and righteous as a friend of God. (Romans 5:18; James 2:23) The meaning of the Christian Jubilee was thoroughly explained in 1987.
19 In 1995 the separating of “the sheep” from “the goats” was more clearly understood. The year 1998 saw the detailed explanation of Ezekiel’s temple vision, which is already in the course of fulfillment. In 1999 came clarification of when and how ‘the disgusting thing stands in a holy place.’ (Matthew 24:15, 16; 25:32) And in 2002 further discernment was gained regarding what it means to worship God “with spirit and truth.”—John 4:24.
20 In addition to the organizational and doctrinal refinements, there have been refinements with regard to Christian conduct. For example, in 1973 the use of tobacco was seen as a “defilement of flesh” and was to be viewed as serious wrongdoing. (2 Corinthians 7:1) A decade later, the July 15, 1983, issue of The Watchtower clarified our position on the use of firearms. These are just some examples of the increasing light in our time.
Go On Walking in the Path of Increasing Light
21 “Accepting a change when it comes and adapting to it can be difficult,” admits one longtime elder. What has helped him accept the many refinements he has witnessed in the 48 years that he has been a Kingdom proclaimer? He answers: “Having the right attitude is the key. Refusing to accept a refinement is to be left behind as the organization moves ahead. If I find myself in a situation where changes seem hard to accept, I reflect on Peter’s words to Jesus: ‘Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.’ Then I ask myself, ‘Where shall I go away to—out there into the darkness of the world?’ This helps me to hold firmly to God’s organization.”—John 6:68.
22 The world around us is certainly in dense darkness. As Jehovah continues to shed light on his people, the gap between them and those of the world keeps on widening. What does this light do for us? Well, just as shining a spotlight on a pothole on a dark roadway does not remove the hole, light from God’s Word does not remove pitfalls. Yet, divine light surely helps us to avoid them so that we can continue walking in the path of increasing light. Let us, then, continue to pay attention to Jehovah’s prophetic word, “as to a lamp shining in a dark place.”—2 Peter 1:19.
Ok, thats it in a long winded way! In a nutshell, what they are saying to you is that as time goes on, Jehovah reveals things that he didn't tell you before.
How do they defend the changes?
Questions From Readers Watchtower 1954 15 Oct:
● How does Jehovah’s spirit help the “faithful and discreet slave” arrive at the truth of a matter? The Society does not claim infallibility or inspiration. How much is dependent upon the written Word? How can we be sure that this is the organization Jehovah is using when some things are published and later changed?—C. P., United States.
In regard to how the truth is brought forth through Jehovah’s organization, please note that if the Watch Tower Society were infallible there would be no need for future correction of viewpoints held; but because it is not infallible and has never claimed to be, from time to time corrections are necessary. If Jehovah’s spirit operated in the way it did upon Bible writers, inspiring them to write according to Jehovah’s thoughts, then no future corrections in matters would ever be necessary. But because the spirit does not operate in this way today some corrections are made from time to time.
Jehovah God, in fact, foretold or indicated that such would be the case. At Proverbs 4:18 (AS) it states: “The path of the righteous is as the dawning light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” While the light is still dim the broad outline of an object may be visible but the details of it are not always distinct, and as the light increases these details may be seen with more clarity and a corrected view is obtained. Full dependence is placed upon Jehovah’s Word in the formulation of truth and it is from his Word that proof should be forthcoming. However, with greater clarity and understanding, new truths are discerned and something that previously appeared very logical may require revision.
Jehovah did not say that the entire matter would be seen in crystal clarity instantaneously. With these last days in mind, Jesus spoke of the “faithful and discreet slave” that would be appointed to bring forth “food at the proper time.” (Matt. 24:45, NW) This is a progressive process, food being continually provided, and as we advance in the stream of time and observe further fulfillment of prophecy new truths are discerned and brought forth and constitute fresh and nourishing food for our day. Some truths were not essential for us prior to the time of their discernment, otherwise Jehovah would have caused them to become known earlier.
Even the erroneous viewpoints held by Jehovah’s witnesses during the first world war served their purpose in contributing to the fulfillment of prophecy, for Jehovah had long ago foretold a condition of spiritual uncleanness upon his people at that particular time and the cleansing work that would be done. Hence such things are to be expected according to prophecy and their occurrence is a confirmation that this is Jehovah’s organization, rather than a cause for raising question concerning Jehovah’s use of the organization.
Jehovah uses this organization because it is meek and teachable and is not set and bound in its viewpoints. It is an organization that looks to Jehovah for guidance and direction and watches his maneuvering of matters on the world scene and the outworking of events that fulfill prophecy and it lines up its views in accord with these things. It is willing to change and keep up with the developing conditions, to keep up with the light as the light is revealed brighter and brighter. That is why Jehovah can use this organization, and certainly the facts show that he has been using it and is continuing to use it. He is bringing the increase. He is using this organization to preach the good news of the established Kingdom in all the inhabited earth. Prophecies are being fulfilled upon this group. We are counseled to remain close to the organization, for even if the organization does have views that are later changed, our safety lies in remaining within the organization and changing with it when the light increases and new truths are discerned.
No other organization has shown this flexibility to alter its views, to keep up with the changing times, to be alert to the increased light that comes from Jehovah from the temple, for other groups are bound by their centuries-old creeds. Rather than a stumbling stone, the Society’s readiness to alter its views when necessary should be a source of comfort and encouragement, an assurance that there will be continual advancement and increase in learning, an ever-brightening light as we approach closer to the perfect day with its noonday brightness. A false religion may have some truth in it, but it never gets rid of its many falsehoods and the truth it does have continues to be contaminated. With Jehovah’s organization the beliefs can be established from the Bible, and when some erroneous view does creep in it is soon ferreted out and discarded.
In another 'nut shell' moment, what they are saying is: The holy spirit just does not work like it used to and we make mistakes and jehovah lets us make wrong doctrines because thats good for us. Aren't you glad we change our teachings?
Ok, sufficient to show the teaching, that it has been around a long time and the scripture and reasoning used.
What Can Help Us to Handle the Word of the Truth Aright?
A THEATER critic for a newspaper once went to see a certain play. He did not much like it and afterward wrote: “If triviality is what you happen to be wanting, by all means go and see this play.” Later, the promoters of the play published an advertisement that featured a quote from the critic’s review. The quote was: “By all means go and see this play”! The advertisement accurately quoted the critic’s words, but it lifted them out of context and thus grossly misrepresented his view.
That example illustrates how important the context of a statement can be. Taking words out of context can distort their meaning, just as Satan distorted the meaning of Scripture when he tried to mislead Jesus. (Matthew 4:1-11) On the other hand, taking the context of a statement into account helps us to get a more accurate understanding of its meaning. For this reason, when we study a Bible verse, it is always wise to look at the context and see the verse in its setting in order to understand better what the writer was talking about.
Handle With Care
A dictionary defines context as “the parts of a written or spoken statement that precede or follow a specific word or passage, usually influencing its meaning or effect.” Context can also be “the set of circumstances or facts that surround a particular event, situation, etc.” In this latter sense, a synonym for “context” would be “background.” Considering the context of a scripture is particularly important in view of what the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Timothy 2:15) In order to handle God’s Word aright, we need to understand it properly and then explain it honestly and accurately to others. Respect for Jehovah, the Bible’s Author, will move us to try to do that, and considering the context will be an important help.
So, what is the context of Proverbs chapter 4? Lets read it carefully just as the red highlighted section of the 2003 Watchtower admonishes
PROVERBS 4: 1 Listen, O sons, to the discipline of a father and pay attention, so as to know understanding. 2 For good instruction is what I certainly shall give to YOU. My law DO not leave. 3 For I proved to be a real son to my father, tender and the only one before my mother. 4 And he would instruct me and say to me: “May your heart keep fast hold of my words. Keep my commandments and continue living. 5 Acquire wisdom, acquire understanding. Do not forget, and do not turn aside from the sayings of my mouth. 6 Do not leave it, and it will keep you. Love it, and it will safeguard you. 7 Wisdom is the prime thing. Acquire wisdom; and with all that you acquire, acquire understanding. 8 Highly esteem it, and it will exalt you. It will glorify you because you embrace it. 9 To your head it will give a wreath of charm; a crown of beauty it will bestow upon you.”
10 Hear, my son, and accept my sayings. Then for you the years of life will become many. 11 I will instruct you even in the way of wisdom; I will cause you to tread in the tracks of uprightness. 12 When you walk, your pace will not be cramped; and if you run, you will not stumble. 13 Take hold on discipline; do not let go. Safeguard it, for it itself is your life.
14 Into the path of the wicked ones do not enter, and do not walk straight on into the way of the bad ones. 15 Shun it, do not pass along by it; turn aside from it, and pass along. 16 For they do not sleep unless they do badness, and their sleep has been snatched away unless they cause someone to stumble. 17 For they have fed themselves with the bread of wickedness, and the wine of acts of violence is what they drink. 18 But the path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established. 19 The way of the wicked ones is like the gloom; they have not known at what they keep stumbling. New world translation.
lets break it down into the basic points:
Do not leave my law. do not leave it. It will keep you, protect and safeguard you. Compare this to the wicked... who can't sleep unless they do bad! But the path of you, under my law, is bright while the wicked's is in gloom.
I am sure you can see this. Where does it speak of religous truths being expounded? Of Jehovah slowly releasing hidden and unknown truths? It does not. Proverbs chapter 4 is not about that. It is merely a comparison of the life of the righteous and the wicked. That the righteous one will fare better in life than the wicked.
The Watchtower bible and tract society actually take this one verse out of context to support a teaching that simply is not in the Bible. And who is the master of distorting biblical context? They themselves tell you... Satan.
From herein i will demonstrate further the falsehood of "NEW LIGHT".
(work in progress)
It is the teaching or understanding of how God reveals new or updated information to the worshippers. It is not unique to the Jehovah's Witnesses either. Other religions use the concept too.
As a child or teenager in the Witness Organization, it is vital that you know just how it is that teachings get changed and how they do it. The fact is that sometimes they go back and forwards between doctrines as if the holy spirit cant make up its mind.
The primary scripture used to support this 'idea' is Proverbs 4:18...
"But the path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established."
Watchtower 2/15 2006: The article is used to demonstrate 'new light' at work...
Walking in the Path of Increasing Light
“The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.”—PROVERBS 4:18.
WHO can better describe the effect that the rising sun has on the darkness of the night than the very Source of light, Jehovah God? (Psalm 36:9) ‘When the morning light takes hold on the ends of the earth,’ God says, ‘the earth transforms itself like clay under a seal, and things take their station as in clothing.’ (Job 38:12-14) With increasing light from the sun, earth’s features take shape and become clearer, just as soft clay undergoes a transformation upon receiving an imprint from an emblem on a seal.
2 Jehovah is also the Source of spiritual light. (Psalm 43:3) While the world remains in dense darkness, the true God continues to shed light upon his people. With what result? The Bible answers: “The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.” (Proverbs 4:18) Increasing light from Jehovah continues to illuminate the path of his people. It refines them organizationally, doctrinally, and morally.
Enlightenment Leads to Organizational Refinements
3 Through the prophet Isaiah, Jehovah foretold: “Instead of the copper I shall bring in gold, and instead of the iron I shall bring in silver, and instead of the wood, copper, and instead of the stones, iron.” (Isaiah 60:17) Just as replacing an inferior material with a superior one denotes improvement, Jehovah’s Witnesses have experienced improvements in their organizational arrangements all through “the conclusion of the system of things,” or “the last days.”—Matthew 24:3; 2 Timothy 3:1.
4 In the early part of the last days, the congregations of Bible Students, as Jehovah’s Witnesses were then known, democratically elected their elders and deacons. Some elders, however, did not have the genuine spirit of evangelizing. Some not only were reluctant to participate in the preaching work themselves but also discouraged others from sharing in it. So in 1919 a new office was instituted in each congregation—that of a service director. The service director was not elected by the congregation but was appointed theocratically to his position by the branch office of God’s people. The responsibilities of the appointed director included organizing the preaching work, assigning territories, and encouraging participation in the field ministry. During the years that followed, the Kingdom-preaching work received a tremendous stimulus.
5 All in the congregation were further invigorated by the exhortation “Advertise, advertise, advertise, the King and his kingdom,” given in 1922 at the Bible Students’ convention at Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. By 1927 field service was organized to the point that Sunday was designated as the most suitable day for participating in the house-to-house preaching work. Why that day? Because Sunday was the day when most people were off work. Jehovah’s Witnesses today manifest the same spirit by endeavoring to call on people at times when they are most likely to be at home, such as on weekends and in the evenings.
6 A great impetus to the Kingdom-proclamation work came on Sunday afternoon, July 26, 1931, when a resolution was adopted, first at a convention in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., and thereafter around the world. In part, the resolution stated: “We are servants of Jehovah God commissioned to do a work in his name, and, in obedience to his commandment, to deliver the testimony of Jesus Christ, and to make known to the people that Jehovah is the true and Almighty God; therefore we joyfully embrace and take the name which the mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah’s witnesses.” (Isaiah 43:10) How clearly that new name defined the primary activity of all of those bearing that name! Yes, Jehovah had work for all his servants to share in. The overall response was enthusiastic indeed!
7 Many elders humbly devoted themselves to the preaching work. In some places, though, elected elders put up considerable resistance to the idea that everyone in the congregation should participate in the public ministry. However, further improvements were in sight. In 1932 the congregations received instruction through The Watchtower to discontinue the electing of elders and deacons. Instead, they were to elect a service committee composed of spiritual men who participated in the public preaching work. Oversight was thus entrusted to those who actively shared in the ministry, and the work moved ahead.
Increased Light Means Further Improvements
8 The light was “getting lighter and lighter.” In 1938 the use of elections was eliminated altogether. All servants in the congregation were to be appointed theocratically under the oversight of “the faithful and discreet slave.” (Matthew 24:45-47) The change was readily accepted by practically all the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the work of witnessing continued to bear fruit.
9 Beginning October 1, 1972, another adjustment in congregational oversight became effective. The arrangement of oversight by a body of elders was instituted in the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide, replacing oversight by just one congregation servant, or overseer. This new arrangement has provided tremendous encouragement for mature men to qualify to take the lead in the congregation. (1 Timothy 3:1-7) As a result, a greater number of brothers have gained experience in caring for congregational responsibilities. How valuable they have proved to be in shepherding the many new ones who have accepted Bible truth!
10 The members of the Governing Body were organized into six committees, and starting on January 1, 1976, all the activities of the organization and of the congregations around the earth came under the supervision of these committees. What a blessing it has proved to be to have all aspects of the Kingdom work directed by a “multitude of counselors”!—Proverbs 15:22; 24:6.
11 The year 1992 saw still another refinement, one that is comparable to what happened after the Israelites and others returned from exile in Babylon. Back at that time, there were not a sufficient number of Levites to care for temple service. So non-Israelite Nethinim were given more to do in helping the Levites. Accordingly, to assist the faithful and discreet slave class in caring for its increasing earthly interests, in 1992 some of the “other sheep” received added service responsibilities. They were appointed as helpers to the Governing Body committees.—John 10:16.
12 What has resulted from all of this? “I will appoint peace as your overseers and righteousness as your task assigners,” says Jehovah. (Isaiah 60:17) There is “peace” among Jehovah’s servants today, and love of “righteousness” has become their ‘task assigner’—the force that impels them to serve God. They are well-organized to carry out the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work.—Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.
Jehovah Illuminates the Path Doctrinally
13 Jehovah is also progressively illuminating the path of his people doctrinally. Revelation 12:1-9 provides an example. The account refers to three symbolic characters—“a woman” who is pregnant and gives birth, a “dragon,” and “a son, a male.” Do you know whom each figure represents? They were identified in an article entitled “Birth of the Nation,” which appeared in the March 1, 1925, issue of The Watch Tower. That article gave God’s people a better understanding of the prophecies about the birth of the Kingdom, insight that made it clear that there exist two distinct organizations—Jehovah’s and Satan’s. Then in 1927/28, God’s people recognized that Christmas and birthday celebrations are unscriptural, and they discontinued observing such.
14 The 1930’s saw further light shed on three doctrinal truths. For years, the Bible Students had known that the great multitude, or the “great crowd,” spoken of at Revelation 7:9-17 was different from the 144,000, who would rule with Christ as kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1-5) However, the identity of the great multitude remained unclear. Just as increasing morning light causes otherwise obscure objects to take on shape and color, in 1935 the great multitude was identified as those who survive “the great tribulation,” with the prospect of living forever on earth. Later in the same year came a clarification that affected school-age children of Jehovah’s Witnesses in a number of countries. While patriotic fervor was running high the world over, the Witnesses recognized that saluting the flag is much more than a mere formalism. In the following year, another doctrinal truth, that Christ died on a stake, not a cross, was explained.—Acts 10:39.
15 In the wake of World War II, during which it had become standard practice to treat wounded soldiers with blood transfusions, there was increased light on the sanctity of blood. The July 1, 1945, issue of The Watchtower encouraged “all worshipers of Jehovah who seek eternal life in his new world of righteousness to respect the sanctity of blood and to conform themselves to God’s righteous rulings concerning this vital matter.”
16 In 1946 a need was seen for a fresh Bible translation that took advantage of the latest scholarship and was not tainted by dogmas based on traditions of Christendom. Work on such a translation began in December 1947. In 1950 the New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures was released in English. The Hebrew Scriptures in English came in five volumes, released progressively beginning in 1953. The final volume was released in 1960, a little over 12 years after the translation project began. The complete New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures in one volume was released in 1961. Now available in many languages, this translation has some outstanding features. It restores the divine name, Jehovah. Moreover, its literal rendering of the original writings has provided the basis for continuous progress in the understanding of divine truth.
17 Clarification of “the superior authorities” of Romans 13:1 and the extent of a Christian’s subjection to them came in 1962. An in-depth study of the 13th chapter of Romans and Scriptural texts such as Titus 3:1, 2 and 1 Peter 2:13, 17 made it clear that the expression “superior authorities” refers, not to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, but to human governmental authorities.
18 In the years that followed, the path of the righteous ones continued to get brighter and brighter. In 1985 light was shed upon what it means to be declared righteous “for life” and righteous as a friend of God. (Romans 5:18; James 2:23) The meaning of the Christian Jubilee was thoroughly explained in 1987.
19 In 1995 the separating of “the sheep” from “the goats” was more clearly understood. The year 1998 saw the detailed explanation of Ezekiel’s temple vision, which is already in the course of fulfillment. In 1999 came clarification of when and how ‘the disgusting thing stands in a holy place.’ (Matthew 24:15, 16; 25:32) And in 2002 further discernment was gained regarding what it means to worship God “with spirit and truth.”—John 4:24.
20 In addition to the organizational and doctrinal refinements, there have been refinements with regard to Christian conduct. For example, in 1973 the use of tobacco was seen as a “defilement of flesh” and was to be viewed as serious wrongdoing. (2 Corinthians 7:1) A decade later, the July 15, 1983, issue of The Watchtower clarified our position on the use of firearms. These are just some examples of the increasing light in our time.
Go On Walking in the Path of Increasing Light
21 “Accepting a change when it comes and adapting to it can be difficult,” admits one longtime elder. What has helped him accept the many refinements he has witnessed in the 48 years that he has been a Kingdom proclaimer? He answers: “Having the right attitude is the key. Refusing to accept a refinement is to be left behind as the organization moves ahead. If I find myself in a situation where changes seem hard to accept, I reflect on Peter’s words to Jesus: ‘Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.’ Then I ask myself, ‘Where shall I go away to—out there into the darkness of the world?’ This helps me to hold firmly to God’s organization.”—John 6:68.
22 The world around us is certainly in dense darkness. As Jehovah continues to shed light on his people, the gap between them and those of the world keeps on widening. What does this light do for us? Well, just as shining a spotlight on a pothole on a dark roadway does not remove the hole, light from God’s Word does not remove pitfalls. Yet, divine light surely helps us to avoid them so that we can continue walking in the path of increasing light. Let us, then, continue to pay attention to Jehovah’s prophetic word, “as to a lamp shining in a dark place.”—2 Peter 1:19.
Ok, thats it in a long winded way! In a nutshell, what they are saying to you is that as time goes on, Jehovah reveals things that he didn't tell you before.
How do they defend the changes?
Questions From Readers Watchtower 1954 15 Oct:
● How does Jehovah’s spirit help the “faithful and discreet slave” arrive at the truth of a matter? The Society does not claim infallibility or inspiration. How much is dependent upon the written Word? How can we be sure that this is the organization Jehovah is using when some things are published and later changed?—C. P., United States.
In regard to how the truth is brought forth through Jehovah’s organization, please note that if the Watch Tower Society were infallible there would be no need for future correction of viewpoints held; but because it is not infallible and has never claimed to be, from time to time corrections are necessary. If Jehovah’s spirit operated in the way it did upon Bible writers, inspiring them to write according to Jehovah’s thoughts, then no future corrections in matters would ever be necessary. But because the spirit does not operate in this way today some corrections are made from time to time.
Jehovah God, in fact, foretold or indicated that such would be the case. At Proverbs 4:18 (AS) it states: “The path of the righteous is as the dawning light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” While the light is still dim the broad outline of an object may be visible but the details of it are not always distinct, and as the light increases these details may be seen with more clarity and a corrected view is obtained. Full dependence is placed upon Jehovah’s Word in the formulation of truth and it is from his Word that proof should be forthcoming. However, with greater clarity and understanding, new truths are discerned and something that previously appeared very logical may require revision.
Jehovah did not say that the entire matter would be seen in crystal clarity instantaneously. With these last days in mind, Jesus spoke of the “faithful and discreet slave” that would be appointed to bring forth “food at the proper time.” (Matt. 24:45, NW) This is a progressive process, food being continually provided, and as we advance in the stream of time and observe further fulfillment of prophecy new truths are discerned and brought forth and constitute fresh and nourishing food for our day. Some truths were not essential for us prior to the time of their discernment, otherwise Jehovah would have caused them to become known earlier.
Even the erroneous viewpoints held by Jehovah’s witnesses during the first world war served their purpose in contributing to the fulfillment of prophecy, for Jehovah had long ago foretold a condition of spiritual uncleanness upon his people at that particular time and the cleansing work that would be done. Hence such things are to be expected according to prophecy and their occurrence is a confirmation that this is Jehovah’s organization, rather than a cause for raising question concerning Jehovah’s use of the organization.
Jehovah uses this organization because it is meek and teachable and is not set and bound in its viewpoints. It is an organization that looks to Jehovah for guidance and direction and watches his maneuvering of matters on the world scene and the outworking of events that fulfill prophecy and it lines up its views in accord with these things. It is willing to change and keep up with the developing conditions, to keep up with the light as the light is revealed brighter and brighter. That is why Jehovah can use this organization, and certainly the facts show that he has been using it and is continuing to use it. He is bringing the increase. He is using this organization to preach the good news of the established Kingdom in all the inhabited earth. Prophecies are being fulfilled upon this group. We are counseled to remain close to the organization, for even if the organization does have views that are later changed, our safety lies in remaining within the organization and changing with it when the light increases and new truths are discerned.
No other organization has shown this flexibility to alter its views, to keep up with the changing times, to be alert to the increased light that comes from Jehovah from the temple, for other groups are bound by their centuries-old creeds. Rather than a stumbling stone, the Society’s readiness to alter its views when necessary should be a source of comfort and encouragement, an assurance that there will be continual advancement and increase in learning, an ever-brightening light as we approach closer to the perfect day with its noonday brightness. A false religion may have some truth in it, but it never gets rid of its many falsehoods and the truth it does have continues to be contaminated. With Jehovah’s organization the beliefs can be established from the Bible, and when some erroneous view does creep in it is soon ferreted out and discarded.
In another 'nut shell' moment, what they are saying is: The holy spirit just does not work like it used to and we make mistakes and jehovah lets us make wrong doctrines because thats good for us. Aren't you glad we change our teachings?
Ok, sufficient to show the teaching, that it has been around a long time and the scripture and reasoning used.
WHAT IS THE GOLDEN RULE OF SCRIPTURE UNDERSTANDING?
CONTEXT.
Watchtower 1/1 2003:What Can Help Us to Handle the Word of the Truth Aright?
A THEATER critic for a newspaper once went to see a certain play. He did not much like it and afterward wrote: “If triviality is what you happen to be wanting, by all means go and see this play.” Later, the promoters of the play published an advertisement that featured a quote from the critic’s review. The quote was: “By all means go and see this play”! The advertisement accurately quoted the critic’s words, but it lifted them out of context and thus grossly misrepresented his view.
That example illustrates how important the context of a statement can be. Taking words out of context can distort their meaning, just as Satan distorted the meaning of Scripture when he tried to mislead Jesus. (Matthew 4:1-11) On the other hand, taking the context of a statement into account helps us to get a more accurate understanding of its meaning. For this reason, when we study a Bible verse, it is always wise to look at the context and see the verse in its setting in order to understand better what the writer was talking about.
Handle With Care
A dictionary defines context as “the parts of a written or spoken statement that precede or follow a specific word or passage, usually influencing its meaning or effect.” Context can also be “the set of circumstances or facts that surround a particular event, situation, etc.” In this latter sense, a synonym for “context” would be “background.” Considering the context of a scripture is particularly important in view of what the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Timothy 2:15) In order to handle God’s Word aright, we need to understand it properly and then explain it honestly and accurately to others. Respect for Jehovah, the Bible’s Author, will move us to try to do that, and considering the context will be an important help.
So, what is the context of Proverbs chapter 4? Lets read it carefully just as the red highlighted section of the 2003 Watchtower admonishes
PROVERBS 4: 1 Listen, O sons, to the discipline of a father and pay attention, so as to know understanding. 2 For good instruction is what I certainly shall give to YOU. My law DO not leave. 3 For I proved to be a real son to my father, tender and the only one before my mother. 4 And he would instruct me and say to me: “May your heart keep fast hold of my words. Keep my commandments and continue living. 5 Acquire wisdom, acquire understanding. Do not forget, and do not turn aside from the sayings of my mouth. 6 Do not leave it, and it will keep you. Love it, and it will safeguard you. 7 Wisdom is the prime thing. Acquire wisdom; and with all that you acquire, acquire understanding. 8 Highly esteem it, and it will exalt you. It will glorify you because you embrace it. 9 To your head it will give a wreath of charm; a crown of beauty it will bestow upon you.”
10 Hear, my son, and accept my sayings. Then for you the years of life will become many. 11 I will instruct you even in the way of wisdom; I will cause you to tread in the tracks of uprightness. 12 When you walk, your pace will not be cramped; and if you run, you will not stumble. 13 Take hold on discipline; do not let go. Safeguard it, for it itself is your life.
14 Into the path of the wicked ones do not enter, and do not walk straight on into the way of the bad ones. 15 Shun it, do not pass along by it; turn aside from it, and pass along. 16 For they do not sleep unless they do badness, and their sleep has been snatched away unless they cause someone to stumble. 17 For they have fed themselves with the bread of wickedness, and the wine of acts of violence is what they drink. 18 But the path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established. 19 The way of the wicked ones is like the gloom; they have not known at what they keep stumbling. New world translation.
lets break it down into the basic points:
Do not leave my law. do not leave it. It will keep you, protect and safeguard you. Compare this to the wicked... who can't sleep unless they do bad! But the path of you, under my law, is bright while the wicked's is in gloom.
I am sure you can see this. Where does it speak of religous truths being expounded? Of Jehovah slowly releasing hidden and unknown truths? It does not. Proverbs chapter 4 is not about that. It is merely a comparison of the life of the righteous and the wicked. That the righteous one will fare better in life than the wicked.
The Watchtower bible and tract society actually take this one verse out of context to support a teaching that simply is not in the Bible. And who is the master of distorting biblical context? They themselves tell you... Satan.
From herein i will demonstrate further the falsehood of "NEW LIGHT".
(work in progress)
the importance of 1914 to 1919 in JW history
What is 1914 to 1919 about? Is it important today to understand the importance that the Jehovah's Witnesses place on that date?
1919 is stated as the year Jesus selected The International Bible Students under J.F. Rutherford as his sole chosen vessel. That is a huge claim to make and must be able to withstand all questioning. The burden of proof is with the modern day Jehovah's Witnesses. Can it stand up to scrutiny?
This is a big claim that in 1919, Jesus had inspected all the religions of Christendom and found the 'international bible students' to be the only ones to be truly his followers and bestowed upon them the term 'Faithful and discreet slave'.
Below are a few references from watchtower magazines to illustrate the teaching. Please go look up the articles...for the sake of brevity i will only post the sections that are strictly pertanent. Naturaly they are talking about themselves as the 'faithful slave'.
Watchtower of 1/15 2008;
"When Christ inspected the “slave” in 1918, he found those anointed ones on earth to be faithful in providing spiritual “food at the proper time.” Hence, Jesus, the Master, was pleased thereafter to appoint them “over all his belongings.”
Watchtower of 3/1 2004:
A “Slave” Who Is Both Faithful and Discreet
“Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics?”— Since Jesus is now in heaven, how has he arranged for us here on earth to receive our spiritual food supply?
3
“Happy is that slave if his master on arriving finds him doing so. Truly I say to you, He will appoint him over all his belongings.” (Matthew 24:45-47) Yes, there would be a “slave” who had been assigned to provide spiritual food, a “slave” who would be both faithful and discreet.
6 The only reasonable conclusion, then, is that Jesus was referring to a group of Christians as “the faithful and discreet slave.” Can there be such a thing as a composite slave?
The “Slave” 19 Centuries Later
16 What about today? When Jesus’ presence began in 1914, did he find a group of anointed Christians who were faithfully dispensing food at the proper time? He certainly did. This group could be clearly identified because of the fine fruitage that it was producing. (Matthew 7:20) History since then has proved this identification to be correct.
18 Yes, when the Master arrived, he found his faithful slave conscientiously feeding the domestics as well as preaching the good news. Greater responsibilities now awaited that slave. Jesus said: “Truly I say to you, He will appoint him over all his belongings.” (Matthew 24:47) Jesus did this in 1919, after the slave had passed through a period of testing. Why, though, did “the faithful and discreet slave” receive greater responsibilities? Because the Master had received an increase in his belongings. Jesus was given the kingship in 1914.
watchtower 10/1 2005
16 Revelation chapter 14 goes on to describe further events that are to take place in the hour of judgment. Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, is mentioned first: “Another, a second angel, followed, saying: ‘She has fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen!’” (Revelation 14:8) Yes, from God’s viewpoint, Babylon the Great has already fallen. In 1919, Jehovah’s anointed servants were set free from the bondage of Babylonish doctrines and practices, which have dominated peoples and nations for millenniums. (Revelation 17:1, 15) They could henceforth devote themselves to promoting true worship. Global preaching of the good news of God’s Kingdom has taken place since then.—Matthew 24:14
Revelation book of 1988:
Chapter 12 para 18,19:
In 1919 Jesus fulfilled his promise and recognized the small band of genuine anointed Christians as his “faithful and discreet slave.” ....... Jehovah has strengthened his servants for this privilege, boosting their little power into dynamic energy sufficient for a gigantic global witness.—Isaiah 22:20, 22; 40:29.....
19 From 1919 onward the anointed remnant, following Jesus’ example, launched into a vigorous campaign of declaring abroad the good news of the Kingdom.
Chapter 25 para 25:
24 What a shock for those persecutors! The corpses of the two witnesses were suddenly alive and active again. It was a bitter pill for those clergymen to swallow, the more so since the Christian ministers whom they had schemed to put in prison were free again, later to be fully exonerated. The shock must have been even greater when, in September 1919, the Bible Students held a convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. Here J. F. Rutherford, recently released from prison, stirred conventioners with his talk “Announcing the Kingdom,” based on Revelation 15:2 and Isaiah 52:7. Those of the John class began once again to “prophesy,” or preach publicly. They advanced from strength to strength, fearlessly exposing Christendom’s hypocrisy.
25 Christendom tried again and again to repeat her triumph of 1918. She resorted to mob action, legal maneuvering, imprisonment, even executions—all to no avail! After 1919 the spiritual domain of the two witnesses was out of her reach. In that year Jehovah had said to them: “Come on up here,” and they had ascended to an elevated spiritual state where their enemies could see them but could not touch them.
3 You may ask, ‘Since religion still exercises great influence in the earth, why does the angel announce that Babylon the Great has fallen?’ Well, what resulted after 539 B.C.E. when ancient Babylon fell? Why, Israel was freed to return to its homeland and restore true worship there! So the restoration of spiritual Israel in 1919 to a radiant spiritual prosperity, which continues and expands to this day, stands as evidence that Babylon the Great fell in that year.
OK. Enough to show the claim of being the 'faithful and discreet slave' and that the proof is in the preaching, the spreading of the good news of Christ, the abandoning of 'Babylonish teachings'. And that this occured when Jesus made inspection from 1914 and ending in 1919.
So. it is very clear that Jehovah's Witnesses see themselves as The sole channel of God. Selected in 1919 by Jesus. The 'evidence' is the monumental preaching work they have accomplished and the fact that the other religions can no longer silence them.
The real 1919
What though was the world of 1919 like? It is very easy to gloss over history with statements in publications of modern times. When Jesus inspected the churches of christendom in 1919 looking for his 'faithful and discreet slave, what did he find? How did he spot the international bible students out of all the others? What was the 'fine fruitage that was being produced'?
Going on the old saying, 'self praise is no recomendation' i will discount the jailing and release from prison of Rutherford as a prophetic fullfilment and as a proof that this event somehow was a sign of Jesus' blessing. This is because other religions also have significant events concerning their leaders that deal with 1914 and 1919 too. Lets stick to the cold hard facts of history.
The preaching work is pretty obvious as the fruitage that is talked about here, and the 'feeding', or dissemination of bible truths to as many as possible.
Lets then do some comparisons then, as there were also other people doing similar things and see what makes the bible students stand out enough for Jesus to notice them above the rest.
Who should we look at? What other groups can we consider even came close? Let the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society tell us themselves...
Proclaimers book chpt 1:
Influence of Others
Russell referred quite openly to the assistance in Bible study he had received from others. Not only did he acknowledge his indebtedness to Second Adventist Jonas Wendell but he also spoke with affection about two other individuals who had aided him in Bible study. Russell said of these two men: “The study of the Word of God with these dear brethren led, step by step, into greener pastures.” One, George W. Stetson, was an earnest student of the Bible and pastor of the Advent Christian Church in Edinboro, Pennsylvania.
The other, George Storrs, was publisher of the magazine Bible Examiner, in Brooklyn, New York. Storrs, who was born on December 13, 1796, was initially stimulated to examine what the Bible says about the condition of the dead as a result of reading something published (though at the time anonymously) by a careful student of the Bible, Henry Grew, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Storrs became a zealous advocate of what was called conditional immortality—the teaching that the soul is mortal and that immortality is a gift to be attained by faithful Christians. He also reasoned that since the wicked do not have immortality, there is no eternal torment. Storrs traveled extensively, lecturing on the subject of no immortality for the wicked. Among his published works was the Six Sermons, which eventually attained a distribution of 200,000 copies. Without a doubt, Storrs’ strong Bible-based views on the mortality of the soul as well as the atonement and restitution (restoration of what was lost due to Adamic sin; Acts 3:21) had a strong, positive influence on young Charles T. Russell. [note: Storrs also was an Adventist]
Yet, another man who had a profound effect on Russell’s life also caused his loyalty to Scriptural truth to be put to the test.
Time Prophecies and the Presence of the Lord
One morning in January 1876, 23-year-old Russell received a copy of a religious periodical called Herald of the Morning. From the picture on the cover, he could see that it was identified with Adventism. The editor, Nelson H. Barbour, of Rochester, New York, believed that the object of Christ’s return was not to destroy the families of the earth but to bless them and that his coming would be not in the flesh but as a spirit. Why, this was in agreement with what Russell and his associates in Allegheny had believed for some time! Curiously, though, Barbour believed from Biblical time-prophecies that Christ was already present (invisibly) and that the harvest work of gathering “the wheat” (true Christians making up the Kingdom class) was already due.—Matt., chap. 13.
Russell had shied away from Biblical time prophecies. Now, however, he wondered: “Could it be that the time prophecies which I had so long despised, because of their misuse by Adventists, were really meant to indicate when the Lord would be invisibly present to set up his Kingdom?” With his insatiable thirst for Scriptural truth, Russell had to learn more. So he arranged to meet with Barbour in Philadelphia. This meeting confirmed their agreement on a number of Bible teachings and provided an opportunity for them to exchange views. “When we first met,” Russell later stated, “he had much to learn from me on the fulness of restitution based upon the sufficiency of the ransom given for all, as I had much to learn from him concerning time.” Barbour succeeded in convincing Russell that Christ’s invisible presence had begun in 1874.
In the August 1878 issue of Herald of the Morning, there appeared an article by Barbour that denied the substitutionary value of Christ’s death. Russell, who was nearly 30 years younger than Barbour, could see that this was, in fact, denying the essential part of the ransom doctrine. So in the very next issue (September 1878), Russell, in an article entitled “The Atonement,” upheld the ransom and contradicted Barbour’s statements. The controversy continued in the pages of the journal for the next few months. Finally, Russell decided to withdraw from fellowship with Mr. Barbour and discontinued further financial support to the Herald.
C. T. Russell, though, felt that to withdraw from the Herald was not enough; the ransom doctrine must be defended and Christ’s presence must be proclaimed. Hence, in July 1879, Russell began publishing Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence. Russell was the editor and publisher, with five others originally listed as contributors to its columns. The first issue had a printing of 6,000 copies. By 1914 the printing of each issue was about 50,000 copies.
It is therefore no secret that the greatest influences on Russell were in fact all Adventists. In fact the split from partnership with Adventist Barbour was only on one doctrine. They were in agreement obviously on everything else. After the split, he started his own magazine. It is therefore a logical follow-on that if he and Barbour had not parted, the two of them would have grown an Adventist style religion.
Thus, it is most logical that the only real contenders for comparison is the Adventist faiths up to 1919. How different were they that Jesus would pick one over the other?
Proclaimers chpt 22
The actual number who were then sharing in that work, however, was small. Some who had fearfully held back during 1918 became active again, and a few more joined their ranks. But the records that are available show that in 1919 there were only some 5,700 who were actively witnessing, in 43 lands.
The criteria must be what the Jehovah's Witnesses use as proofs. Again, as it was between 1914 and 1919.
Proof 1) The dispensing (feeding) of Bible truths to multitudes: Done by publication and meetings.
Jehovahs Witnesess;
Zions Watchtower and herald of Christs presence published from 1879. (has had a few name changes)
The Golden age published from 1919. (Became Consolation, and now called Awake!
Russells sermons were published in many newspapers.
Regular meetings of 'companies' to discuss the teachings of the International Bible Students as they were then called.
Adventist;
Barbours "herald of the morning".
The Adventist Review was founded by James and Ellen White in July 1849 as The Present Truth, but the name was changed to The Advent Review and then Second Advent Review and Sabbath Herald (with variations) after being combined with the Sabbath Herald publication. The name was changed to Adventist Review in 1978. Throughout its history it has been commonly referred to as the Review.
Many Adventists were prolific in writing pamphlets as well.
Meetings to discuss bible truths. Indeed this was how C.T.Russell's interest was re-kindled.
Proof 2) Growth: Significant increase in numbers
Jehovahs Witnesses:
Proclaimers chpt 22:
The actual number who were then sharing in that work, however, was small. Some who had fearfully held back during 1918 became active again, and a few more joined their ranks. But the records that are available show that in 1919 there were only some 5,700 who were actively witnessing, in 43 lands.
Adventist:
Under White's guidance the denomination in the 1870s turned to missionary work and revivals, tripling its membership to 16,000 by 1880; rapid growth continued, with 75,000 members in 1901. By this time operated two colleges, a medical school, a dozen academies, 27 hospitals, and 13 publishing houses.
Proof 3) Preaching: Reaching out to non believers and other regligions.
Jehovah's Witnesses:
Brother Rutherford was inclined, not to change the direction of the organization, but to continue in the forward-moving pattern established by Russell. Traveling representatives of the Society (known as pilgrims) were increased from 69 to 93. Distribution of the Society’s free tracts was accelerated on occasional Sundays in front of the churches and regularly in the house-to-house ministry.
The “pastoral work,” which had been started prior to Russell’s death, was now stepped up. This was a follow-up work, similar to the return-visit activity now carried on by Jehovah’s Witnesses. To further revitalize the preaching work, the Society’s new president expanded the colporteur work. Colporteurs (forerunners of today’s pioneers) were increased from 372 to 461. (proclaimers book 1993)
This work of course, was built on the 'pattern' left by Russell. It included international and national preaching tours, supporting missionary work and establishing branches in other countries.
Adventist:
In this current issue we spotlight the pulpit ministry of the pioneers of our faith. The intent is to show how our Seventh-day Adventist pioneers sought every opportunity at the pulpit to present our distinctive message and to prepare a people for the Lord. Whether it was at a worship service, funeral service, church dedication, in the territories of unbelievers, in homes, etc., the early pioneers found ways to proclaim the unvarnished Word.
Ellen G. White (1827–1915) In addition to being a prolific writer, E.G. White was also known for her public speaking, speaking to crowds of varying sizes—the largest on one occasion being about 20,000 people.
Roswell F. Cottrell (1814–1892) . His discourse, “Sermon Preached to the Seneca Indians” is believed to be the earliest Sabbathkeeping Adventist sermon that has survived. Published in the May 14, 1857, issue of the Review and Herald, the sermon is also believed to the first attempt by a Sabbathkeeping Adventist to share his faith with members of any American Indian tribe.
John N. Andrews (1829–1883) became the denomination’s first official overseas missionary in 1874. Andrews preached his sermon on Sunday afternoon, April 20, 1879, to an overflow crowd of about 5,000 people during the dedication of the “Dime” Tabernacle in Battle Creek, Michigan. He took his text from the mottoes on the windows of the church.
Stephen N. Haskell (1833–1922) was an evangelist and administrator. He pioneered many missionary activities for the church. For example, in 1885 he led the group that was sent to open denominational work in Australia and New Zealand. In 1887, with three Bible instructors he began SDA work in London, England. He made a world tour on behalf of missionary work in 1889–1890, visiting western Europe, southern Africa, India, China, Japan, and Australia. Haskell was also responsible for the organization of the first SDA church of African-Americans in New York City (1902).
Alonzo T. Jones (1850–1923) In 1888, these two men stirred the General Conference session in Minneapolis with their preaching on righteousness by faith. For several years thereafter, they preached on that subject from coast to coast. Ellen White accompanied them on many occasions. (copyright adventist affirm on line magazine)
Proof 4) Free of Babylonish teachings: The abandoning of false teachings.
Jehovah's witnesses:
Abandoned hellfire, trinity, immortal soul, once saved always saved etc. 're-discovered' truths like ressurection, atonement, ransom sacrifice, the remnant, christs return etc.
Adventists:
Also had abandoned hellfire, trinity, immortal soul, once saved always saved etc. 're-discovered' truths like ressurection, atonement, ransom sacrifice, the remnant, christs return etc .
What does the record show?
It shows that up to 1919, including the special years of christ's inspection (1914 to 1919) both groups were essentially the same!
BOTH GROUPS were publishing bible based magazines, books and tracts. BOTH GROUPS were teaching others in new found 'truths' in small and large groups. BOTH GROUPS were active in the preaching of the Gospel, Missionary work, travelling preaching tours and converting from other religions of 'Christendom'. BOTH GROUPS had abandoned many of the core 'false' teachings of mainstream Catholic and protestant religions. BOTH GROUPS were now teaching loudly the same 'new found' truths they felt were long hidden... and... BOTH GROUPS had a major upheaval in those years, the IBSA lost Russell in 1916 and felt tested by Rutherfords imprisionment and release in 1919, the SDA lost White in 1915 and had a church crises in 1919!
Now, here-in is a delema for the Jehovah's Witnesses of today:
proclaimers book 1993 chpt 5:
C. T. Russell used the Watch Tower and other publications to uphold Bible truths and to refute false religious teachings and human philosophies that contradicted the Bible. He did not, however, claim to discover new truths.
From the latter part of the 18th century, many ministers and Bible scholars had been exposing the false teachings of the immortality of the soul and eternal punishment for the wicked. This exposé had been thoroughly reported in the book Bible Vs. Tradition, by Aaron Ellis, originally published in England and then in the United States in 1853 by George Storrs. But no one at that time did more than C. T. Russell and his associates to make this truth known.
Who says so? Says that no-one did more than Russell? Why, the Jehovah's Witnesses naturally! (And the saying 'self praise is no recomendation' springs to mind here.) BUT, it is more important to let the facts of history tell the story, not revisionist history. The above information plainly tells the story. Russell and the Bible Students did no more than the others, in fact they did considerably LESS.
Thus the record shows that in reality, there was no way Jesus could have picked them above the others of the time.
Now i will discuss some other theological and delemas that their unprovable claim raises.
The Witnesses have from time to time published their 'history' in an attempt to show that they have never been perfect and are on path of continued enlightenment. Doing so however also raises questions and reasonings that quite frankly they would rather go away. An example of this is below from the 1955 watchtower. Please read it and then my comments.
Watchtower 1 /1 1955:
Courageously and vigorously Jehovah’s surviving remnant of anointed witnesses took hold of the task of restoring true worship, genuine Christianity, which had been overshadowed by Babylonish false religious thinking from the time the last of Jesus’ apostles died, about A.D. 100. The collective system of Christendom’s apostate clergy, as the “man of lawlessness,” had long kept the peoples in gross darkness. Though Jehovah’s people from the 1870’s to 1918 had gradually changed over much of their basic religious thinking from the corrupt teachings of the Babylonish religion of apostate nominal churches, yet to a great degree they still were held in restraint by tainted bonds of false conceptions and practices inherited from the pagan traditions adopted by Christendom. For example, up to and including their 1918 troubles these witnesses of the Most High God still trusted excessively in so-called “character development,” indulged in considerable creature worship, accepted earthly political governments as the “superior authorities” ordained of God (Rom. 13:1, NW), and thus were held in fear of man, particularly civil rulers. Also they celebrated some pagan holidays, such as Christmas, they used the symbol of the cross as a sign of Christian devotion, the name of Jehovah they had in the background, and organizationally they continued to practice the democratic style of local congregational government. Generally, everyone did what was considered right in his own eyes. The gathering together of the anointed ones under the Watch Tower Society from many parts of the earth in those days resulted in a loose association of Christians longing for still greater restorations.
In 1919 and thereafter all this began to change for a brilliant, divinely blessed future. The anointed witnesses as a loosely united community came to life again after the almost fatal blow from the Gentile governments in 1914-1918, the facts of which were fully examined in our previous part (8) of this history. As a restored Christian community they immediately confessed their sins of compromising, also their taints of false religion. They repented of their former course, expressed a desire to change their ways and prayed for Jehovah’s forgiveness. Organizationally they remembered their sins, such as compromisingly cutting out pages 247-253 of The Finished Mystery, their seventh volume of Studies in the Scriptures, to please would-be censors, The Watch Tower encouraging its readers to set aside May 30, 1918, as a day of prayer and supplication as requested by the American Congress on April 2 and as proclaimed by President Wilson May 11, their tendering of compliments to governments of this world, and their dabbling in nonreligious enterprises. As a body they confessed, “We have sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly.” “Who gave Jacob for a spoil, and Israel to the robbers? did not Jehovah? he against whom we have sinned, and in whose ways they would not walk, neither were they obedient unto his law.” (Ps. 106:6; Isa. 42:24, AS) The stirring Watch Tower articles of August 1 and 15, 1919, entitled “Blessed Are the Fearless,” dispelled the grip of the “fear of man” restraining the faithful remnant and they began to go forth as a forgiven people, a cleansed organization, a new nation freed from the Devil’s old-world organization. They rejoiced that now the brief interval of Jehovah’s displeasure was ended, that his anger was turned away from them, and that their service to him in the future would be acceptable
On the surface this seems very humble, even slightly contrite, acknowledging that although they had done so much they were still tainted with things like Christmas. They point to 1919 as the time of change. This time was of course from when Rutherford and his companions were released from prison in 1919 and began rebuilding the faith. The release from prison is seen as the 'sign' that Jesus had chosen!
So, that means that 1914 to the time of imprisionment in 1918 was the inspection period. It was the things Jesus saw in that time that convinced him to choose the bible students above all others. We have already seen that there actually was no difference in the 4 crucial things offered as 'proofs' by the Witnesses. This brings me to looking further at what the above 1955 article is refering to, the wrong things that they were still bound to.
During the 'inspection time' the International Bible students also:
Predicted that Armageddon would occur in 1914 (Zion's Watch Tower 1894 July 15):
CAN IT BE DELAYED UNTIL 1914?
Seventeen years ago people said, concerning the time features presented in MILLENNIAL
DAWN, They seem reasonable in many respects, but surely no such radical changes could occur
between now and the close of 1914: if you had proved that they would come about in a
century or two, it would seem much more probable.
What changes have since occurred, and what velocity is gained daily! "The old is quickly passing, and the new is coming in." Now, in view of recent labor troubles and threatened anarchy, our readers are writing to know if there may not be a mistake in the 1914 date. They say that they do not see how present conditions can hold out so long under the strain. We see no reason for changing the figures-- nor could we change them if we would. They are, we believe, God's dates, not ours. But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble. We see no reason for changing from our opinion expressed in the View
presented in the WATCH TOWER of Jan. 15, '92. We advise that it be read again. The date of the close of that "battle" is definitely marked in Scripture as October, 1914.
President C.T. Russell was basing teachings on the Pyramids of Egypt. A teaching not changed until 1929! (Watchtower 1881).
It has an entrance passage downward to a pit representing the "broad road to destruction." From this a passage starts upward-- representing the Law dispensation. This in due time enlarges and becomes a "grand gallery," seven times as high, still leading upward, representing the Gospel Age. Thirty-three inches from the beginning of the grand gallery R224 : page 6
is a well, representing the death and resurrection of Jesus. From this well there is another downward passage-way which connects with the entrance passage near the pit, and seems to
teach the restoration of all R225 : page 6 men from the "horrible pit" of death, through and on account of Jesus' death.
The "grand gallery" measures 1874 inches long at the top, 1878 inches long at a groove cut in its sides about midway between bottom and top and 1881 inches, at the bottom. (The upper end
wall impends or slants forward). Now notice how aptly these three distinct dates (1874, 1878,1881,) are marked by the pyramid, in ending the grand gallery, and see how ably it supports the teaching of the Bible, viz: that the gospel favors and privileges have been ending during these seven years--and will entirely cease this year. Two other ways, in which the Pyramid corroborates scripture, are these: At the top of the "grand gallery"-- just where it
measures 1874 inches, there is an opening or passage-way which seems to say, something might go out or come in here. For some time we thought this might represent the "change," or
catching away of the church as spiritual beings; but it would have been due in 1874 and no translation took place; then it must mean something else. It seems very plain and clear to us
now that that opening can mean nothing else than what the Prophets have taught us, viz: that there the Bridegroom came a spiritual being. It fits, as all the other parts of that wonderful
structure fit and harmonize with the Word. Secondly, we are claiming that our Lord's presence here, is to be to many in the nominal church "a stone of stumbling," and this too finds its illustration in the Pyramid, for at the upper end of the "Grand gallery" a huge block of stone juts out into the pathway and further progress becomes impossible, unless the traveler climbs with difficulty to its level. So we find it; many are stumbling, and the progress of all seems to depend on their recognizing the present one.
Watchtower jan 1915: SERIES III.,
"Thy Kingdom Come," considers prophecies
which mark events connected with the "Time of the End,"
the glorification of the Church and the establishment of the
Millennial Kingdom; it also contains a chapter on the Great
Pyramid, showing its corroboration of the dates and other
teachings of the Bible: 384 pages, in embossed cloth, 35c. (1s.
6d.) India paper edition, 75c. (3s. 1-1/2d.)
Right through to his death, Russell was teaching this. The teaching of the pyramid was taken as truth for another 13 years under Rutherford and was not abandoned until 1929.
They celebrated Christmas, New Years and birthdays. Still celebrating Christmas in 1926!
As early as 1881, the watchtower was telling its readers that christmas was a renamed pagan celebration. In 1904 they still promoted it in the watchtower of Dec 1 1904 Russell wrote:
Even though Christmas is not the real anniversary of our Lord's birth, but more properly the annunciation day or the date of his human begetting (Luke 1:28), nevertheless, since the celebration of our Lord's birth is not a matter of divine appointment or injunction, but merely a tribute of respect to him, it is not necessary for us to quibble particularly about the date. We may as well join with the civilized world in celebrating the grand event on the day which the majority celebrate - "Christmas day."
However they still celebrated it as late as 1926. What an interesting old photo this is:
They taught that the white race was superior and blacks could change their skin color in the new system.-[Watchtower July 15 1902 p.215;Watchtower 1904 February 15 pp.52-53]
Supported the league of nations in 1919;
Watchtower, Vol. 7, February 15, 1919, page 6389, par. 2.
"We cannot but admire the high principles embodied in the proposed League of Nations, formulated undoubtedly by those who have no knowledge of the great plan of God. This fact makes all the more wonderful the ideals which they express. For instance, it has been made plain by President Wilson and the advocates of his ideas that the proposed League of Nations is more than merely a league to enforce peace. They would not have us consider it to exclusively from the standpoint of politics or of military relations. It should be considered as fully from the economic and social points of view. The President's idea seems to be that the League of Nations which he proposes would stand for world service rather than mere world regulation in the military sense, and that the very smallest of nations shall be participants in its every arrangement. In other words, his idea undoubtedly is that the league shall not be established merely for the purpose of promoting peace by threat or coercion; but that its purpose, when put into operation, will be to make all nations of earth one great family, working together for the common benefit in all the avenues of national life. Truly this is idealistic, and approximates in a small way that which God has foretold that he will bring about after this great time of trouble."
Most JWs can't even go back as far as 1975... and most who came into the 'truth' in the last 20 years or so probably don't have any idea what 1919 is about either. That is truly a lamentable situation.
This post is about that... If you think it is too far in the past to be of importance then i suggest you do read this:1919 is stated as the year Jesus selected The International Bible Students under J.F. Rutherford as his sole chosen vessel. That is a huge claim to make and must be able to withstand all questioning. The burden of proof is with the modern day Jehovah's Witnesses. Can it stand up to scrutiny?
This is a big claim that in 1919, Jesus had inspected all the religions of Christendom and found the 'international bible students' to be the only ones to be truly his followers and bestowed upon them the term 'Faithful and discreet slave'.
Below are a few references from watchtower magazines to illustrate the teaching. Please go look up the articles...for the sake of brevity i will only post the sections that are strictly pertanent. Naturaly they are talking about themselves as the 'faithful slave'.
Watchtower of 1/15 2008;
"When Christ inspected the “slave” in 1918, he found those anointed ones on earth to be faithful in providing spiritual “food at the proper time.” Hence, Jesus, the Master, was pleased thereafter to appoint them “over all his belongings.”
Watchtower of 3/1 2004:
A “Slave” Who Is Both Faithful and Discreet
“Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics?”— Since Jesus is now in heaven, how has he arranged for us here on earth to receive our spiritual food supply?
3
“Happy is that slave if his master on arriving finds him doing so. Truly I say to you, He will appoint him over all his belongings.” (Matthew 24:45-47) Yes, there would be a “slave” who had been assigned to provide spiritual food, a “slave” who would be both faithful and discreet.
6 The only reasonable conclusion, then, is that Jesus was referring to a group of Christians as “the faithful and discreet slave.” Can there be such a thing as a composite slave?
The “Slave” 19 Centuries Later
16 What about today? When Jesus’ presence began in 1914, did he find a group of anointed Christians who were faithfully dispensing food at the proper time? He certainly did. This group could be clearly identified because of the fine fruitage that it was producing. (Matthew 7:20) History since then has proved this identification to be correct.
18 Yes, when the Master arrived, he found his faithful slave conscientiously feeding the domestics as well as preaching the good news. Greater responsibilities now awaited that slave. Jesus said: “Truly I say to you, He will appoint him over all his belongings.” (Matthew 24:47) Jesus did this in 1919, after the slave had passed through a period of testing. Why, though, did “the faithful and discreet slave” receive greater responsibilities? Because the Master had received an increase in his belongings. Jesus was given the kingship in 1914.
watchtower 10/1 2005
16 Revelation chapter 14 goes on to describe further events that are to take place in the hour of judgment. Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, is mentioned first: “Another, a second angel, followed, saying: ‘She has fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen!’” (Revelation 14:8) Yes, from God’s viewpoint, Babylon the Great has already fallen. In 1919, Jehovah’s anointed servants were set free from the bondage of Babylonish doctrines and practices, which have dominated peoples and nations for millenniums. (Revelation 17:1, 15) They could henceforth devote themselves to promoting true worship. Global preaching of the good news of God’s Kingdom has taken place since then.—Matthew 24:14
Revelation book of 1988:
Chapter 12 para 18,19:
In 1919 Jesus fulfilled his promise and recognized the small band of genuine anointed Christians as his “faithful and discreet slave.” ....... Jehovah has strengthened his servants for this privilege, boosting their little power into dynamic energy sufficient for a gigantic global witness.—Isaiah 22:20, 22; 40:29.....
19 From 1919 onward the anointed remnant, following Jesus’ example, launched into a vigorous campaign of declaring abroad the good news of the Kingdom.
Chapter 25 para 25:
24 What a shock for those persecutors! The corpses of the two witnesses were suddenly alive and active again. It was a bitter pill for those clergymen to swallow, the more so since the Christian ministers whom they had schemed to put in prison were free again, later to be fully exonerated. The shock must have been even greater when, in September 1919, the Bible Students held a convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. Here J. F. Rutherford, recently released from prison, stirred conventioners with his talk “Announcing the Kingdom,” based on Revelation 15:2 and Isaiah 52:7. Those of the John class began once again to “prophesy,” or preach publicly. They advanced from strength to strength, fearlessly exposing Christendom’s hypocrisy.
25 Christendom tried again and again to repeat her triumph of 1918. She resorted to mob action, legal maneuvering, imprisonment, even executions—all to no avail! After 1919 the spiritual domain of the two witnesses was out of her reach. In that year Jehovah had said to them: “Come on up here,” and they had ascended to an elevated spiritual state where their enemies could see them but could not touch them.
3 You may ask, ‘Since religion still exercises great influence in the earth, why does the angel announce that Babylon the Great has fallen?’ Well, what resulted after 539 B.C.E. when ancient Babylon fell? Why, Israel was freed to return to its homeland and restore true worship there! So the restoration of spiritual Israel in 1919 to a radiant spiritual prosperity, which continues and expands to this day, stands as evidence that Babylon the Great fell in that year.
OK. Enough to show the claim of being the 'faithful and discreet slave' and that the proof is in the preaching, the spreading of the good news of Christ, the abandoning of 'Babylonish teachings'. And that this occured when Jesus made inspection from 1914 and ending in 1919.
So. it is very clear that Jehovah's Witnesses see themselves as The sole channel of God. Selected in 1919 by Jesus. The 'evidence' is the monumental preaching work they have accomplished and the fact that the other religions can no longer silence them.
The real 1919
What though was the world of 1919 like? It is very easy to gloss over history with statements in publications of modern times. When Jesus inspected the churches of christendom in 1919 looking for his 'faithful and discreet slave, what did he find? How did he spot the international bible students out of all the others? What was the 'fine fruitage that was being produced'?
Going on the old saying, 'self praise is no recomendation' i will discount the jailing and release from prison of Rutherford as a prophetic fullfilment and as a proof that this event somehow was a sign of Jesus' blessing. This is because other religions also have significant events concerning their leaders that deal with 1914 and 1919 too. Lets stick to the cold hard facts of history.
The preaching work is pretty obvious as the fruitage that is talked about here, and the 'feeding', or dissemination of bible truths to as many as possible.
Lets then do some comparisons then, as there were also other people doing similar things and see what makes the bible students stand out enough for Jesus to notice them above the rest.
Who should we look at? What other groups can we consider even came close? Let the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society tell us themselves...
Proclaimers book chpt 1:
Influence of Others
Russell referred quite openly to the assistance in Bible study he had received from others. Not only did he acknowledge his indebtedness to Second Adventist Jonas Wendell but he also spoke with affection about two other individuals who had aided him in Bible study. Russell said of these two men: “The study of the Word of God with these dear brethren led, step by step, into greener pastures.” One, George W. Stetson, was an earnest student of the Bible and pastor of the Advent Christian Church in Edinboro, Pennsylvania.
The other, George Storrs, was publisher of the magazine Bible Examiner, in Brooklyn, New York. Storrs, who was born on December 13, 1796, was initially stimulated to examine what the Bible says about the condition of the dead as a result of reading something published (though at the time anonymously) by a careful student of the Bible, Henry Grew, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Storrs became a zealous advocate of what was called conditional immortality—the teaching that the soul is mortal and that immortality is a gift to be attained by faithful Christians. He also reasoned that since the wicked do not have immortality, there is no eternal torment. Storrs traveled extensively, lecturing on the subject of no immortality for the wicked. Among his published works was the Six Sermons, which eventually attained a distribution of 200,000 copies. Without a doubt, Storrs’ strong Bible-based views on the mortality of the soul as well as the atonement and restitution (restoration of what was lost due to Adamic sin; Acts 3:21) had a strong, positive influence on young Charles T. Russell. [note: Storrs also was an Adventist]
Yet, another man who had a profound effect on Russell’s life also caused his loyalty to Scriptural truth to be put to the test.
Time Prophecies and the Presence of the Lord
One morning in January 1876, 23-year-old Russell received a copy of a religious periodical called Herald of the Morning. From the picture on the cover, he could see that it was identified with Adventism. The editor, Nelson H. Barbour, of Rochester, New York, believed that the object of Christ’s return was not to destroy the families of the earth but to bless them and that his coming would be not in the flesh but as a spirit. Why, this was in agreement with what Russell and his associates in Allegheny had believed for some time! Curiously, though, Barbour believed from Biblical time-prophecies that Christ was already present (invisibly) and that the harvest work of gathering “the wheat” (true Christians making up the Kingdom class) was already due.—Matt., chap. 13.
Russell had shied away from Biblical time prophecies. Now, however, he wondered: “Could it be that the time prophecies which I had so long despised, because of their misuse by Adventists, were really meant to indicate when the Lord would be invisibly present to set up his Kingdom?” With his insatiable thirst for Scriptural truth, Russell had to learn more. So he arranged to meet with Barbour in Philadelphia. This meeting confirmed their agreement on a number of Bible teachings and provided an opportunity for them to exchange views. “When we first met,” Russell later stated, “he had much to learn from me on the fulness of restitution based upon the sufficiency of the ransom given for all, as I had much to learn from him concerning time.” Barbour succeeded in convincing Russell that Christ’s invisible presence had begun in 1874.
In the August 1878 issue of Herald of the Morning, there appeared an article by Barbour that denied the substitutionary value of Christ’s death. Russell, who was nearly 30 years younger than Barbour, could see that this was, in fact, denying the essential part of the ransom doctrine. So in the very next issue (September 1878), Russell, in an article entitled “The Atonement,” upheld the ransom and contradicted Barbour’s statements. The controversy continued in the pages of the journal for the next few months. Finally, Russell decided to withdraw from fellowship with Mr. Barbour and discontinued further financial support to the Herald.
C. T. Russell, though, felt that to withdraw from the Herald was not enough; the ransom doctrine must be defended and Christ’s presence must be proclaimed. Hence, in July 1879, Russell began publishing Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence. Russell was the editor and publisher, with five others originally listed as contributors to its columns. The first issue had a printing of 6,000 copies. By 1914 the printing of each issue was about 50,000 copies.
It is therefore no secret that the greatest influences on Russell were in fact all Adventists. In fact the split from partnership with Adventist Barbour was only on one doctrine. They were in agreement obviously on everything else. After the split, he started his own magazine. It is therefore a logical follow-on that if he and Barbour had not parted, the two of them would have grown an Adventist style religion.
Thus, it is most logical that the only real contenders for comparison is the Adventist faiths up to 1919. How different were they that Jesus would pick one over the other?
Proclaimers chpt 22
The actual number who were then sharing in that work, however, was small. Some who had fearfully held back during 1918 became active again, and a few more joined their ranks. But the records that are available show that in 1919 there were only some 5,700 who were actively witnessing, in 43 lands.
The criteria must be what the Jehovah's Witnesses use as proofs. Again, as it was between 1914 and 1919.
Proof 1) The dispensing (feeding) of Bible truths to multitudes: Done by publication and meetings.
Jehovahs Witnesess;
Zions Watchtower and herald of Christs presence published from 1879. (has had a few name changes)
The Golden age published from 1919. (Became Consolation, and now called Awake!
Russells sermons were published in many newspapers.
Regular meetings of 'companies' to discuss the teachings of the International Bible Students as they were then called.
Adventist;
Barbours "herald of the morning".
The Adventist Review was founded by James and Ellen White in July 1849 as The Present Truth, but the name was changed to The Advent Review and then Second Advent Review and Sabbath Herald (with variations) after being combined with the Sabbath Herald publication. The name was changed to Adventist Review in 1978. Throughout its history it has been commonly referred to as the Review.
Many Adventists were prolific in writing pamphlets as well.
Meetings to discuss bible truths. Indeed this was how C.T.Russell's interest was re-kindled.
Proof 2) Growth: Significant increase in numbers
Jehovahs Witnesses:
Proclaimers chpt 22:
The actual number who were then sharing in that work, however, was small. Some who had fearfully held back during 1918 became active again, and a few more joined their ranks. But the records that are available show that in 1919 there were only some 5,700 who were actively witnessing, in 43 lands.
Adventist:
Under White's guidance the denomination in the 1870s turned to missionary work and revivals, tripling its membership to 16,000 by 1880; rapid growth continued, with 75,000 members in 1901. By this time operated two colleges, a medical school, a dozen academies, 27 hospitals, and 13 publishing houses.
Proof 3) Preaching: Reaching out to non believers and other regligions.
Jehovah's Witnesses:
Brother Rutherford was inclined, not to change the direction of the organization, but to continue in the forward-moving pattern established by Russell. Traveling representatives of the Society (known as pilgrims) were increased from 69 to 93. Distribution of the Society’s free tracts was accelerated on occasional Sundays in front of the churches and regularly in the house-to-house ministry.
The “pastoral work,” which had been started prior to Russell’s death, was now stepped up. This was a follow-up work, similar to the return-visit activity now carried on by Jehovah’s Witnesses. To further revitalize the preaching work, the Society’s new president expanded the colporteur work. Colporteurs (forerunners of today’s pioneers) were increased from 372 to 461. (proclaimers book 1993)
This work of course, was built on the 'pattern' left by Russell. It included international and national preaching tours, supporting missionary work and establishing branches in other countries.
Adventist:
In this current issue we spotlight the pulpit ministry of the pioneers of our faith. The intent is to show how our Seventh-day Adventist pioneers sought every opportunity at the pulpit to present our distinctive message and to prepare a people for the Lord. Whether it was at a worship service, funeral service, church dedication, in the territories of unbelievers, in homes, etc., the early pioneers found ways to proclaim the unvarnished Word.
Ellen G. White (1827–1915) In addition to being a prolific writer, E.G. White was also known for her public speaking, speaking to crowds of varying sizes—the largest on one occasion being about 20,000 people.
Roswell F. Cottrell (1814–1892) . His discourse, “Sermon Preached to the Seneca Indians” is believed to be the earliest Sabbathkeeping Adventist sermon that has survived. Published in the May 14, 1857, issue of the Review and Herald, the sermon is also believed to the first attempt by a Sabbathkeeping Adventist to share his faith with members of any American Indian tribe.
John N. Andrews (1829–1883) became the denomination’s first official overseas missionary in 1874. Andrews preached his sermon on Sunday afternoon, April 20, 1879, to an overflow crowd of about 5,000 people during the dedication of the “Dime” Tabernacle in Battle Creek, Michigan. He took his text from the mottoes on the windows of the church.
Stephen N. Haskell (1833–1922) was an evangelist and administrator. He pioneered many missionary activities for the church. For example, in 1885 he led the group that was sent to open denominational work in Australia and New Zealand. In 1887, with three Bible instructors he began SDA work in London, England. He made a world tour on behalf of missionary work in 1889–1890, visiting western Europe, southern Africa, India, China, Japan, and Australia. Haskell was also responsible for the organization of the first SDA church of African-Americans in New York City (1902).
Alonzo T. Jones (1850–1923) In 1888, these two men stirred the General Conference session in Minneapolis with their preaching on righteousness by faith. For several years thereafter, they preached on that subject from coast to coast. Ellen White accompanied them on many occasions. (copyright adventist affirm on line magazine)
Proof 4) Free of Babylonish teachings: The abandoning of false teachings.
Jehovah's witnesses:
Abandoned hellfire, trinity, immortal soul, once saved always saved etc. 're-discovered' truths like ressurection, atonement, ransom sacrifice, the remnant, christs return etc.
Adventists:
Also had abandoned hellfire, trinity, immortal soul, once saved always saved etc. 're-discovered' truths like ressurection, atonement, ransom sacrifice, the remnant, christs return etc .
What does the record show?
It shows that up to 1919, including the special years of christ's inspection (1914 to 1919) both groups were essentially the same!
BOTH GROUPS were publishing bible based magazines, books and tracts. BOTH GROUPS were teaching others in new found 'truths' in small and large groups. BOTH GROUPS were active in the preaching of the Gospel, Missionary work, travelling preaching tours and converting from other religions of 'Christendom'. BOTH GROUPS had abandoned many of the core 'false' teachings of mainstream Catholic and protestant religions. BOTH GROUPS were now teaching loudly the same 'new found' truths they felt were long hidden... and... BOTH GROUPS had a major upheaval in those years, the IBSA lost Russell in 1916 and felt tested by Rutherfords imprisionment and release in 1919, the SDA lost White in 1915 and had a church crises in 1919!
Now, here-in is a delema for the Jehovah's Witnesses of today:
proclaimers book 1993 chpt 5:
C. T. Russell used the Watch Tower and other publications to uphold Bible truths and to refute false religious teachings and human philosophies that contradicted the Bible. He did not, however, claim to discover new truths.
From the latter part of the 18th century, many ministers and Bible scholars had been exposing the false teachings of the immortality of the soul and eternal punishment for the wicked. This exposé had been thoroughly reported in the book Bible Vs. Tradition, by Aaron Ellis, originally published in England and then in the United States in 1853 by George Storrs. But no one at that time did more than C. T. Russell and his associates to make this truth known.
Who says so? Says that no-one did more than Russell? Why, the Jehovah's Witnesses naturally! (And the saying 'self praise is no recomendation' springs to mind here.) BUT, it is more important to let the facts of history tell the story, not revisionist history. The above information plainly tells the story. Russell and the Bible Students did no more than the others, in fact they did considerably LESS.
Thus the record shows that in reality, there was no way Jesus could have picked them above the others of the time.
Now i will discuss some other theological and delemas that their unprovable claim raises.
The Witnesses have from time to time published their 'history' in an attempt to show that they have never been perfect and are on path of continued enlightenment. Doing so however also raises questions and reasonings that quite frankly they would rather go away. An example of this is below from the 1955 watchtower. Please read it and then my comments.
Watchtower 1 /1 1955:
Courageously and vigorously Jehovah’s surviving remnant of anointed witnesses took hold of the task of restoring true worship, genuine Christianity, which had been overshadowed by Babylonish false religious thinking from the time the last of Jesus’ apostles died, about A.D. 100. The collective system of Christendom’s apostate clergy, as the “man of lawlessness,” had long kept the peoples in gross darkness. Though Jehovah’s people from the 1870’s to 1918 had gradually changed over much of their basic religious thinking from the corrupt teachings of the Babylonish religion of apostate nominal churches, yet to a great degree they still were held in restraint by tainted bonds of false conceptions and practices inherited from the pagan traditions adopted by Christendom. For example, up to and including their 1918 troubles these witnesses of the Most High God still trusted excessively in so-called “character development,” indulged in considerable creature worship, accepted earthly political governments as the “superior authorities” ordained of God (Rom. 13:1, NW), and thus were held in fear of man, particularly civil rulers. Also they celebrated some pagan holidays, such as Christmas, they used the symbol of the cross as a sign of Christian devotion, the name of Jehovah they had in the background, and organizationally they continued to practice the democratic style of local congregational government. Generally, everyone did what was considered right in his own eyes. The gathering together of the anointed ones under the Watch Tower Society from many parts of the earth in those days resulted in a loose association of Christians longing for still greater restorations.
In 1919 and thereafter all this began to change for a brilliant, divinely blessed future. The anointed witnesses as a loosely united community came to life again after the almost fatal blow from the Gentile governments in 1914-1918, the facts of which were fully examined in our previous part (8) of this history. As a restored Christian community they immediately confessed their sins of compromising, also their taints of false religion. They repented of their former course, expressed a desire to change their ways and prayed for Jehovah’s forgiveness. Organizationally they remembered their sins, such as compromisingly cutting out pages 247-253 of The Finished Mystery, their seventh volume of Studies in the Scriptures, to please would-be censors, The Watch Tower encouraging its readers to set aside May 30, 1918, as a day of prayer and supplication as requested by the American Congress on April 2 and as proclaimed by President Wilson May 11, their tendering of compliments to governments of this world, and their dabbling in nonreligious enterprises. As a body they confessed, “We have sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly.” “Who gave Jacob for a spoil, and Israel to the robbers? did not Jehovah? he against whom we have sinned, and in whose ways they would not walk, neither were they obedient unto his law.” (Ps. 106:6; Isa. 42:24, AS) The stirring Watch Tower articles of August 1 and 15, 1919, entitled “Blessed Are the Fearless,” dispelled the grip of the “fear of man” restraining the faithful remnant and they began to go forth as a forgiven people, a cleansed organization, a new nation freed from the Devil’s old-world organization. They rejoiced that now the brief interval of Jehovah’s displeasure was ended, that his anger was turned away from them, and that their service to him in the future would be acceptable
On the surface this seems very humble, even slightly contrite, acknowledging that although they had done so much they were still tainted with things like Christmas. They point to 1919 as the time of change. This time was of course from when Rutherford and his companions were released from prison in 1919 and began rebuilding the faith. The release from prison is seen as the 'sign' that Jesus had chosen!
So, that means that 1914 to the time of imprisionment in 1918 was the inspection period. It was the things Jesus saw in that time that convinced him to choose the bible students above all others. We have already seen that there actually was no difference in the 4 crucial things offered as 'proofs' by the Witnesses. This brings me to looking further at what the above 1955 article is refering to, the wrong things that they were still bound to.
During the 'inspection time' the International Bible students also:
Predicted that Armageddon would occur in 1914 (Zion's Watch Tower 1894 July 15):
CAN IT BE DELAYED UNTIL 1914?
Seventeen years ago people said, concerning the time features presented in MILLENNIAL
DAWN, They seem reasonable in many respects, but surely no such radical changes could occur
between now and the close of 1914: if you had proved that they would come about in a
century or two, it would seem much more probable.
What changes have since occurred, and what velocity is gained daily! "The old is quickly passing, and the new is coming in." Now, in view of recent labor troubles and threatened anarchy, our readers are writing to know if there may not be a mistake in the 1914 date. They say that they do not see how present conditions can hold out so long under the strain. We see no reason for changing the figures-- nor could we change them if we would. They are, we believe, God's dates, not ours. But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble. We see no reason for changing from our opinion expressed in the View
presented in the WATCH TOWER of Jan. 15, '92. We advise that it be read again. The date of the close of that "battle" is definitely marked in Scripture as October, 1914.
President C.T. Russell was basing teachings on the Pyramids of Egypt. A teaching not changed until 1929! (Watchtower 1881).
It has an entrance passage downward to a pit representing the "broad road to destruction." From this a passage starts upward-- representing the Law dispensation. This in due time enlarges and becomes a "grand gallery," seven times as high, still leading upward, representing the Gospel Age. Thirty-three inches from the beginning of the grand gallery R224 : page 6
is a well, representing the death and resurrection of Jesus. From this well there is another downward passage-way which connects with the entrance passage near the pit, and seems to
teach the restoration of all R225 : page 6 men from the "horrible pit" of death, through and on account of Jesus' death.
The "grand gallery" measures 1874 inches long at the top, 1878 inches long at a groove cut in its sides about midway between bottom and top and 1881 inches, at the bottom. (The upper end
wall impends or slants forward). Now notice how aptly these three distinct dates (1874, 1878,1881,) are marked by the pyramid, in ending the grand gallery, and see how ably it supports the teaching of the Bible, viz: that the gospel favors and privileges have been ending during these seven years--and will entirely cease this year. Two other ways, in which the Pyramid corroborates scripture, are these: At the top of the "grand gallery"-- just where it
measures 1874 inches, there is an opening or passage-way which seems to say, something might go out or come in here. For some time we thought this might represent the "change," or
catching away of the church as spiritual beings; but it would have been due in 1874 and no translation took place; then it must mean something else. It seems very plain and clear to us
now that that opening can mean nothing else than what the Prophets have taught us, viz: that there the Bridegroom came a spiritual being. It fits, as all the other parts of that wonderful
structure fit and harmonize with the Word. Secondly, we are claiming that our Lord's presence here, is to be to many in the nominal church "a stone of stumbling," and this too finds its illustration in the Pyramid, for at the upper end of the "Grand gallery" a huge block of stone juts out into the pathway and further progress becomes impossible, unless the traveler climbs with difficulty to its level. So we find it; many are stumbling, and the progress of all seems to depend on their recognizing the present one.
Watchtower jan 1915: SERIES III.,
"Thy Kingdom Come," considers prophecies
which mark events connected with the "Time of the End,"
the glorification of the Church and the establishment of the
Millennial Kingdom; it also contains a chapter on the Great
Pyramid, showing its corroboration of the dates and other
teachings of the Bible: 384 pages, in embossed cloth, 35c. (1s.
6d.) India paper edition, 75c. (3s. 1-1/2d.)
Right through to his death, Russell was teaching this. The teaching of the pyramid was taken as truth for another 13 years under Rutherford and was not abandoned until 1929.
They celebrated Christmas, New Years and birthdays. Still celebrating Christmas in 1926!
As early as 1881, the watchtower was telling its readers that christmas was a renamed pagan celebration. In 1904 they still promoted it in the watchtower of Dec 1 1904 Russell wrote:
Even though Christmas is not the real anniversary of our Lord's birth, but more properly the annunciation day or the date of his human begetting (Luke 1:28), nevertheless, since the celebration of our Lord's birth is not a matter of divine appointment or injunction, but merely a tribute of respect to him, it is not necessary for us to quibble particularly about the date. We may as well join with the civilized world in celebrating the grand event on the day which the majority celebrate - "Christmas day."
However they still celebrated it as late as 1926. What an interesting old photo this is:
Caption: Bethel Xmas Morning 1926.
They prayed for victory in war and honored the flag.-[ Watchtower 1918 June 1 p.174;
Watchtower may 15 1917:
DISPLAYING THE AMERICAN FLAG
Suppose the city or state officials should issue an order requiring, or even requesting, that all persons display the American flag. What should we do? We answer, We think it would be right to display the flag in obedience to such order or request. The American flag was adopted as an emblem of liberty. It is the national emblem. While some have insisted that it now represents war, this is hardly in keeping with the facts. It may represent war to those who desire war, but to those who love liberty and peace, the flag represents liberty and peace. However that may be, the displaying of the American flag can do injury to no one. If commanded or requested to display the flag, it should be done, out of respect to the Government under which it is the privilege of Christians to live. If an American was the guest of the British. Government and
was requested to display the British flag and refused to do so, it would be showing disrespect to the British Government, his host. If a Christian, who is an alien amongst all earthly governments, should, while journeying amongst them, be requested to display a flag of the country whose benefits he is enjoying, and refuse to do so, such refusal would be failing to show the proper respect to such government. Recognizing that the Government of the United States has been the special refuge of Christian people from intolerable persecution; that it was founded as an asylum of religious liberty and freedom of speecb, every one in America should take pleasure in displaying the American flag---especially when requested to do so. It does not mean that by putting a flag on your house you would want to go to war.
They taught that the white race was superior and blacks could change their skin color in the new system.-[Watchtower July 15 1902 p.215;Watchtower 1904 February 15 pp.52-53]
Supported the league of nations in 1919;
Watchtower, Vol. 7, February 15, 1919, page 6389, par. 2.
"We cannot but admire the high principles embodied in the proposed League of Nations, formulated undoubtedly by those who have no knowledge of the great plan of God. This fact makes all the more wonderful the ideals which they express. For instance, it has been made plain by President Wilson and the advocates of his ideas that the proposed League of Nations is more than merely a league to enforce peace. They would not have us consider it to exclusively from the standpoint of politics or of military relations. It should be considered as fully from the economic and social points of view. The President's idea seems to be that the League of Nations which he proposes would stand for world service rather than mere world regulation in the military sense, and that the very smallest of nations shall be participants in its every arrangement. In other words, his idea undoubtedly is that the league shall not be established merely for the purpose of promoting peace by threat or coercion; but that its purpose, when put into operation, will be to make all nations of earth one great family, working together for the common benefit in all the avenues of national life. Truly this is idealistic, and approximates in a small way that which God has foretold that he will bring about after this great time of trouble."
In the above issue, the Organization publicly admired the principles of the proposed league. They then had the audacity to critisize the Federal council of churches of christ for supporting it 4 months later!
They served in the military. Not changed till 1939!
Zion's Watch Tower 1898 Aug. 1 p.231: (see also jv p.191)]
Question. I was surprised to note your advice to any who might be drafted into the army. Would not your advice seem like compromising to avoid trouble?
Answer. It is proper to avoid trouble in a proper manner. It is proper to compromise when no principle is involved, as in the case mentioned. Notice that there is no command in theScriptures against military service. Obedience to a draft would remind us of our Lord's words, "If any man compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain." The government may compel marching or drilling, but cannot compel you to kill the foe. You need not be a good marksman.
Question. You suggested in a recent WATCH TOWER that, if drafted and in the army, we need not shoot to kill. Would such a course be right? Would it not be fraudulent?
Answer. No; it would be quite right to shoot, not to kill. You forget, perhaps, our provisos, which were that we explain our conscientious scruples against war, and seek to be excused; if not excused, that we seek non-combatant positions, as nurses, etc.; but if compelled to go a mile or many miles as a soldier, we still need not kill anybody.
Proclaimers page 191:
as World War II gathered momentum in Europe, a significant article in The Watchtower of November 1, 1939, helped them to appreciate the meaning of Christian neutrality. Followers of Jesus Christ, the article stated, are obligated before God to be wholly devoted to him and his Kingdom, the Theocracy. Their prayers should be for God’s Kingdom, not for the world. (Matt. 6:10, 33) In the light of what Jesus Christ disclosed as to the identity of the invisible ruler of the world (John 12:31; 14:30), the article reasoned, how could a person who is devoted to God’s Kingdom favor one side or the other in a conflict between factions of the world? Had not Jesus said of his followers: “They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world”? (John 17:16)
So, when Jesus inspected them in the war years it was still fine to be in the armed forces! In fact it was not until 20 years later that they changed their minds.
These present a challenge to the reasoning of the Jehovah's Witnesses in 4 ways:
1) If the teachings were correct then in 1919, when Jesus chose the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, Jesus would have to abandon them now because their belief system is totally reversed. Almost ALL of the teachings, understandings and dates of C.T.Russell that Jesus must have approved of in 1919 were abandoned after J.F.Rutherford took over.
2) If the teachings are correct now, they were therefore wrong then, and thus Jesus could not have chosen them back in 1919.
3) KA book cpt 11:
...the remnant of the “chaste virgin” class looked ahead with intensifying interest to that critical date, October 1, 1914. These were a class of Christians separated from this unclean world and fully “consecrated” to God through Christ, and they had symbolized their “consecration” to God by water immersion.
If they were separated from the unclean world as of 1914, how was it that jesus accepted them in 1919 when they were still part of the worldly uncleaness? The christmas, birthdays,armed service, league of nations, Pyramids, the flag. Why, if Jesus had accepted them BY 1914, did they need to cleanse themselves later?
4) The Watchtower society taught that they were already chosen back in 1875! From the finished mystery page 344:
"THE WATCHTOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY is the greatest corporation in the world, because from the time of its organization until now the lord has used it as his channel through which to make known the glad tidings". And when was it incorporated? 1875! 
So, did the 'lord' choose them in 1875? If so there was no need for Jesus to choose them in 1919. If he had to choose them in 1919 then they were lying in the 1917 book. Jesus would not choose a religion that lies would he?
It was not until the 1929 book 'prophecy' by J.F.Rutherford that it was mentioned as the year of choosing. Rutherford was in fact gearing up to change the name of the bible students to 'Jehovah's Witnesses. In his revisionist look into the past, he needed a year and event he could tie in to assure the 'friends' of God's blessing on them all. The year was 1918/19 and the event was his imprisionment and release 10 years before.
Now, i don't care what answer you have as to the changes or the reasons for them, new light, whatever. IT DOES NOT MATTER.
The Watchtower Society cannot have it both ways. They can't have been chosen in 1875 and 1919. They can't have been right in 1919 and then change beliefs. They can't be right now and have been chosen in 1919.
Sorry kids, you have been lied to.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
1975
None of you teenagers were even thought of in 1975. That is some 35 years ago. With about 1.5 million JWs in the early 70s to close to 7.5 million now, some 6 million have come to the organization since that time. That means 6 million people who may have no idea what i am talking about!
(Blue highlighting mine)
The following is from the Watchtower of 10/15 1966 in an article on the “God’s Sons of Liberty” District Assemblies
To give aid today in this critical time to prospective sons of God,” announced President Knorr, “a new book in English, entitled ‘Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God,’ has been published.” At all assembly points where it was released, the book was received enthusiastically. Crowds gathered around stands and soon supplies of the book were depleted. Immediately its contents were examined. It did not take the brothers very long to find the chart beginning on page 31, showing that 6,000 years of man’s existence end in 1975. Discussion of 1975 overshadowed about everything else. “The new book compels us to realize that Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed,” said a conventioner. Surely it was one of the outstanding blessings to be carried home!
THE YEAR 1975
At the Baltimore assembly Brother Franz in his closing remarks made some interesting comments regarding the year 1975. He began casually by saying, “Just before I got on the platform a young man came to me and said, ‘Say, what does this 1975 mean? Does it mean this, that or any other thing?’” In part, Brother Franz went on to say: ‘You have noticed the chart [on pages 31-35 in the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God]. It shows that 6,000 years of human experience will end in 1975, about nine years from now. What does that mean? Does it mean that God’s rest day began 4026 B.C.E.? It could have. The Life Everlasting book does not say it did not. The book merely presents the chronology. You can accept it or reject it. If that is the case, what does that mean to us? [He went into some length showing the feasibility of the 4026 B.C.E. date as being the beginning of God’s rest day.]
‘What about the year 1975? What is it going to mean, dear friends?’ asked Brother Franz. ‘Does it mean that Armageddon is going to be finished, with Satan bound, by 1975? It could! It could! All things are possible with God. Does it mean that Babylon the Great is going to go down by 1975? It could. Does it mean that the attack of Gog of Magog is going to be made on Jehovah’s witnesses to wipe them out, then Gog himself will be put out of action? It could. But we are not saying. All things are possible with God. But we are not saying. And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975. But the big point of it all is this, dear friends: Time is short. Time is running out, no question about that.
‘When we were approaching the end of the Gentile Times in 1914, there was no sign that the Gentile Times were going to end. Conditions on earth gave us no hint of what was to come, even as late as June of that year. Then suddenly there was a murder. World War I broke out. You know the rest. Famines, earthquakes and pestilences followed, as Jesus foretold would happen.
‘But what do we have today as we approach 1975? Conditions have not been peaceful. We’ve been having world wars, famines, earthquakes, pestilences and we have these conditions still as we approach 1975. Do these things mean something? These things mean that we’re in the “time of the end.” And the end has to come sometime. Jesus said: “As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near.” (Luke 21:28) So we know that as we come to 1975 our deliverance is that much nearer.’
“Let us make the most of the time and get in all the good hard work to Jehovah while the opportunity affords,” he urged.
Now, these were about the first real mentions of 1975, 9 years into the future. As the society said, discussion of 1975 overshadowed everything else! It would be very naive to think that the writers of the book, and Fred Franz would be ignorant of the effect this would have on the brothers. They could not expect anything less than mass speculation of what they had set in motion. 'it could' was said 3 times for emphasis.
Now, i know that those of you still with me will be pointing to this bit: And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975.
Yes, it is true that Fred Franz tried to introduce caution here. For he knew all to well what was likely to happen. Indeed was happening. True, in his talk and in the book nothing specific was said, save for the huge expectation that something was likely to happen in 1975.
Then came the Watchtower of 7/15 1967 with this in an article:
A THOUSAND-YEAR REBUILDING PERIOD
According to the Bible timetable, man’s history on earth has been nearly 6,000 years. Adam was created in 4026 B.C.E., which means that six thousand years of human history end about the fall of 1975 C.E. We are in the great 7,000-year rest day of God, starting at the time he rested after the creation of Adam and Eve. There are, therefore, a thousand years left to run. Without Satan and his demons to disturb mankind it will indeed be a restful time. It will be like a sabbath. In a way it will be a sabbath within a sabbath. The last thousand years of God’s great seven-thousand-year rest is a special sabbath over which the Son of man will be Lord.—Matt. 12:8.
It was well understood by witnesses of the time that that the thousand year rebuilding period was to begin in 1975. With 6,000 years up in that year, the last 1,000 years would be free of Satan, and '75 was that crossover year. This only hightened speculation further.
In the watchtower of 5/1 1967 there appeared this discussion of the 6,000 years:
THE END OF 6,000 YEARS
In examining these Scriptural facts, something else also captures our attention. According to Bible chronology, we are already over fifty-two years into the wicked system of things’ “time of the end.” That time began in the autumn of 1914 C.E., at the termination of the “appointed times of the nations,” and it is already far advanced. Jesus said that “this generation” that saw the beginning of this time period in 1914 would also see its end. The generation that was old enough to view those events with understanding in 1914 is no longer young. It no longer has many years to run. Already many of its members have died. But Jesus showed that there would still be members of “this generation” alive at the time of the passing away of this wicked system of things in both heaven and earth. (Luke 21:32, 33) How much longer will it be, then, before God takes action to destroy the wicked and usher in the blessings of his Kingdom rule?
Interestingly, the autumn of the year 1975 marks the end of 6,000 years of human experience. This is ascertainable from reliable chronology preserved in the Bible itself. What will that year mean for humankind? Will it be the time when God executes the wicked and starts off the thousand-year reign of his Son Jesus Christ? It very well could, but we will have to wait to see. Yet of this we can be certain: the generation that Jesus said would witness those events is nearing its close. The time is close at hand. On God’s “timetable” we are in the closing days of a wicked system of things that will soon be gone forever. A glorious new order is immediately before us. This is, therefore, good reason for Christians everywhere to rejoice. Yes, they rejoice because fulfillment of their prayers for the kingdom of God is now at hand.—Luke 21:28.
What was the result of this article? The linking of the 'generation' now being very old and the year 1975 is made. I notice that the cautionary 'but we have to wait to see' is in the middle of two very speculative statements. Again, this would not be lost on the brothers of the writing department. here was an article that did nothing but continue the hope raising of 1.5 million people.
The Watchtower of 12/15 1968 article:
How We Know It Is Getting Near
10 At the same time the political, financial, economic, social and religious elements are becoming more perplexed, and in their frustration these men are becoming faint not only out of fear but also out of expectation of the things that they can calculate are bound to come upon the earth. World famine is predicted for the year 1975.
What was the effect of this paragraph? It linked the prophecies of the end times to 1975. The brothers were already very excited about 1975, and the publishing of statistics like this had the effect of people saying '' yes! See the sign is coming true! We are very deep into the end..."
Next came a long article in the Watchtower of 8/15 1968:
Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?
WHAT about all this talk concerning the year 1975? Lively discussions, some based on speculation, have burst into flame during recent months among serious students of the Bible. Their interest has been kindled by the belief that 1975 will mark the end of 6,000 years of human history since Adam’s creation. The nearness of such an important date indeed fires the imagination and presents unlimited possibilities for discussion.
The article then had a very detailed lengthy outline of chronology that concludes with the year 1975. (this chronology can be a whole discussion on its own and will not be discussed in this post) The point of the article was to demonstrate the accuracy of the calculations and the methods used. It then continued:
30 Are we to assume from this study that the battle of Armageddon will be all over by the autumn of 1975, and the long-looked-for thousand-year reign of Christ will begin by then? Possibly, but we wait to see how closely the seventh thousand-year period of man’s existence coincides with the sabbathlike thousand-year reign of Christ. If these two periods run parallel with each other as to the calendar year, it will not be by mere chance or accident but will be according to Jehovah’s loving and timely purposes. Our chronology, however, which is reasonably accurate (but admittedly not infallible), at the best only points to the autumn of 1975 as the end of 6,000 years of man’s existence on earth. It does not necessarily mean that 1975 marks the end of the first 6,000 years of Jehovah’s seventh creative “day.” Why not? Because after his creation Adam lived some time during the “sixth day,” which unknown amount of time would need to be subtracted from Adam’s 930 years, to determine when the sixth seven-thousand-year period or “day” ended, and how long Adam lived into the “seventh day.” And yet the end of that sixth creative “day” could end within the same Gregorian calendar year of Adam’s creation. It may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years
This was an article that even further shored up expectation. It is easy to dismiss it in the light of some 40 years past but bear in mind this was new stuff to the brothers then. To the brothers the society was not just confirming that armageddon could arrive in 1975, but also that they may only be out a few months if any. The President of the society would have been very aware that the brothers were talking about 1975 a lot, this article was certainly keeping the expectation alive and well.
The Watchtower of 5/1 1968 increased the urgency created and felt with this:
Making Wise Use of the Remaining Time
5 Therefore, God’s seventh day and the time man has been on earth apparently run parallel. To calculate where man is in the stream of time relative to God’s seventh day of 7,000 years, we need to determine how long a time has elapsed from the year of Adam and Eve’s creation in 4026 B.C.E. From the autumn of that year to the autumn of 1 B.C.E., there would be 4,025 years. From the autumn of 1 B.C.E. to the autumn of 1 C.E. is one year (there was no zero year). From the autumn of 1 C.E. to the autumn of 1967 is a total of 1,966 years. Adding 4,025 and 1 and 1,966, we get 5,992 years from the autumn of 4026 B.C.E. to the autumn of 1967. Thus, eight years remain to account for a full 6,000 years of the seventh day. Eight years from the autumn of 1967 would bring us to the autumn of 1975, fully 6,000 years into God’s seventh day, his rest day.
8 Does this mean that the year 1975 will bring the battle of Armageddon? No one can say with certainty what any particular year will bring. Jesus said: “Concerning that day or the hour nobody knows.” (Mark 13:32) Sufficient is it for God’s servants to know for a certainty that, for this system under Satan, time is running out rapidly. How foolish a person would be not to be awake and alert to the limited time remaining, to the earthshaking events soon to take place, and to the need to work out one’s salvation!
USE IT WISELY
14 Ours are “critical times hard to deal with,” for they are the “last days.” (2 Tim. 3:1) “Wicked men and impostors will advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled.” (2 Tim. 3:13) Surely, Christians want to use their remaining time in this system of things wisely, for the right purpose, so they are not overcome by these bad times so “hard to deal with” due to Satan’s schemes and assaults. But how can we do this? One way is by not wasting time on unprofitable pursuits. This we will do if, to the best of our ability and circumstances, we follow the lead of Jehovah through his visible organization on earth today. Through his visible arrangement we receive counsel on how best to use our time. Meetings are provided for receiving uplift spiritually. There is also wholesome, stimulating activity in preaching the truths we learn to others.—Matt. 24:45-47.
15 True, much of our time is consumed in preparing, going to meetings and out in the ministry. In fact, it seems as though such a schedule leaves little time for other pursuits. But do you think such is an accident? Does Jehovah not know what is best for his people in these very dark and critical days? Aside from the primary purpose of educating us in Jehovah’s purposes and requirements so we can carry out his will, the consuming of our time at meetings and in the ministry means that God’s servants are doing the right thing and will not be in another place doing the wrong thing! The more time they spend working with Jehovah’s visible organization, the less time they will have left to get into difficulty. Yes, the arrangements Jehovah has provided now are certainly a source of great protection. “The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous runs and is given protection.”—Prov. 18:10.
18 To use our time even more wisely, we need to become proficient in our lifesaving work. We want to do more than just occupy our time with the ministry. We want to make the best use of that time we spend, and we can do that if we put our heart into what we do and endeavor to improve the quality of our service to Jehovah. At 1 Corinthians 9:26 Paul said: “The way I am directing my blows is so as not to be striking the air.” Paul was not going to waste time and energy in accomplishing little or nothing. He would learn to direct his efforts skillfully to use in the best way the time he spent. We can do the same. If we do, we will be productive in the ministry, diligently working to find, feed and tenderly care for interested persons with whom we come in contact.
Now things were warming up. It almost appeared that it was no longer speculation. Counsel was coming through that it was important to stay busy. Get out in the field service and don't get caught wasting time on 'unprofitable' pursuits. Anything that was not meeting or service related was not wise.
Watchtower of 4/15 1968 also had another thought provoker:
What the Future Holds for You
Mankind faces the threat of annihilation. Yet, to what future can you confidently look?
“MANY signs are appearing on the international horizon which are reminiscent of what happened before the outbreak of World War II,” noted an editorial in the U.S. News & World Report of October 9, 1967. A few months before, United Nations Secretary-General U Thant observed: “I’m afraid we are entering today the first phase of World War III.”
The world situation is unquestionably dangerous, and is fast becoming more so. Preparations for war go on at an accelerated rate, and as more nations acquire atomic weapons, the danger increases. In addition to the peril of war, the present population explosion poses a threat of even greater food shortages and widespread starvation. In their new book, Famine—1975!, two noted food experts, William and Paul Paddock, make this forecast for the future, on page 61:
“By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations—all because hunger will turn inexorably into starvation and starvation will become widespread famine.”
No wonder there is great anxiety and bewilderment as people contemplate the future. But is the situation really so critical? Does the World actually face disaster? What does the future hold for you?
UNPRECEDENTED TRIBULATION AT HAND
Jesus Christ, God’s greatest prophet, pointed forward to a period of unusual distress, and his description matches perfectly conditions prevailing since World War I in 1914. For instance, among other things, he foretold: “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be food shortages . . . in one place after another.” Wars of unprecedented scope and widespread famine! And of what are such conditions a sign? Jesus explained that they were to mark his invisible presence in Kingdom power, and “the conclusion of the system of things.”—Matt. 24:3-14; Luke 21:7-33.
Thus, the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy, currently being experienced, indicates that the complete end of this system of things is at hand! Jesus compared the destruction that is soon to occur with what actually happened once before in human history. He said: “For just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be. For as they . . . took no note until the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be.” (Matt. 24:37-39) Yes, Jehovah God actually brought a world of wicked mankind to ruin in Noah’s day.
Whether men choose to recognize the fact or not, this system soon faces a similar destruction. It will occur at what the Bible calls “the war of the great day of God the Almighty,” or Armageddon. (Rev. 16:14-16) At that time the tribulation upon ungodly mankind will exceed any ever before experienced. In the course of God’s execution, all political organizations and alliances will be broken down. There will be wild confusion. Every man’s hand will be against his neighbor. (Ezek. 38:21; Zech. 14:13) The disorder, terror and strife will surpass even that experienced when the floodwaters rose above the heads of those struggling to escape in Noah’s day.
Jesus indicated this when he said: “For then there will be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again.” (Matt. 24:21) Happily, however, there will be survivors, even as there were Flood survivors. Jehovah’s executional forces will bring their executional swords down only “upon those who do not know God and those who do not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus.”—2 Thess. 1:7-9.
DESTRUCTION OR PRESERVATION?
The future, therefore, is clear-cut. Faced with Armageddon, people today are going in either one of two directions. They are either supporting this system of things and stubbornly refusing to lean about Jehovah God or they are showing that they truly love Him by taking up His service in imitation of Jesus. There are just the two courses—one leads to everlasting life and the other to eternal destruction. “Jehovah is guarding all those loving him,” the Bible says, “but all the wicked ones he will annihilate.”—Ps. 145:20.
Notice again the reference to 1975 in a quote about the year. This certainly gave us all further confirmation that the end would come in '75 as the rest of the article again focused on armageddon and admonition to make sure we were not wasting time.
Which course of action are you taking? Do you put Jehovah God and his interests first, or do you selfishly pursue the pleasures and comforts of the world, making them your chief concern? Do not try to deceive yourself. You cannot be on both sides.—Matt. 6:24.
The Watchtower of 2/1 1969 stated:
More recently, the book entitled “Famine—1975!” by William and Paul Paddock said concerning today’s food shortages, on pages 52, 55 and 61: “Hunger is rampant throughout country after country, continent after continent around the undeveloped belt of the tropics and subtropics. Today’s crisis can move in only one direction—toward catastrophe. Today hungry nations; tomorrow starving nations. . . . By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations.”
Followed by the watchtower issue of 10/15 1969 later in the year:
By continued success in the missile field and by beginning to stockpile her weapons in the year 1972, and then keeping this up, the Communist Chinese “should be in a position to deploy 15 or 20 Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles by about 1975.”—New York Times, February 3, 1969.
What are we to think of these quotes in 1969, after 1968 issues having a lot to say on 1975? It was the keeping of the date in peoples minds. It was confirmation that 1975 indeed was going to be year to watch!
January 1970 Watchtower kicked off with another reminder, 5/1 1970:
How close we may exactly be to the end of the present divisive system of things cannot be predicted, as Jesus reported that even he did not know the day or the hour at the time of his earthly ministry. (Matt. 24:36) However, Bible chronology which indicates that Adam was created in the fall of the year 4026 B.C.E. would bring us down to the year 1975 C.E. as the date marking 6,000 years of human history with yet 1,000 years to come for Christ’s Kingdom rule. So whatever the date for the end of this system, it is clear that the time left is reduced, with only approximately six years left until the end of 6,000 years of human history. (1 Cor. 7:29) This corroborates the understanding of Jesus’ words that the generation alive in 1914 with the outbreak of World War I would not pass away until the end comes. Only a short time, then, remains for persons who love righteousness to show God that they want to be in his “ark” of protection and live to see the blessings of the new system of things
There is a lot of power in this paragraph. Note how it says that Jesus did not know at the time of his earthly ministry? Don't forget that Jesus had arrived invisbly in 1914, so it follows that he did know by 1970 of course.
Note also the emphasis on this: Jesus reported that even he did not know the day or the hour at the time of his earthly ministry. (Matt. 24:36) However, Bible chronology which indicates that Adam was created in the fall of the year 4026 B.C.E. would bring us down to the year 1975.
Can you see it? Did not know day or hour HOWEVER chronology brings us to the year 1975. There is obvious speculation to the point of almost saying it would come in '75. Correct, it does not say it, but it sure is suggested, and backed by complex chronology and prophecy.
After leaving the situation alone for a while, the Watchtower of 12/15 1974 mentions it again:
And now, as the critical year of 1975 enters, it may well be asked: Has the Most High God of prophecy made a name for himself? The answer is self-evident, Yes! By whom? Not by Christendom or by Jewry, but by Jehovah’s Christian witnesses!
If you enter 1975 into the search of the CD Library, when you look at the number of references to 1975 you find huge jump in references. From 7 mentions in '74 WT's to 70 in the '75 issues.
Many of the references are in fact to show the horrible state of the world in 1975. So, as they entered the year, Jehovah's Witnesses were all exteremely alert. The pointing out of the earths woes and mankinds inability to fix them only served to make them even more anxious in the lead up to Autumn of that year. But by October, Autumn had past and nothing had happened. Not one part of the events to happen before armageddon could occur had happened either.
So, in the 10/1 1975 Watchtower this was printed:
Does this mean, then, that mankind has now reached 6,000 years into the 7,000-year period that God ‘blessed and made sacred’ as his great “rest day”? Does it mean that Christ’s millennial Kingdom rule, as the final 1,000 years of that “rest day,” is to be reckoned from September 1975?—Gen. 1:27, 31; 2:2, 3; Rev. 20:1-6.
No, it does not mean that. Why not? Well, the Bible record shows that God’s creations on the “day” just preceding that 7,000-year “rest day” did not end with Adam’s creation. It shows a time lapse between the creation of Adam and that of his wife, Eve. During that time, God had Adam name the animals. Whether that period amounted to weeks or months or years, we do not know. So we do not know exactly when Jehovah’s great “rest day” began, nor do we know exactly when it will end. The same applies to the beginning of Christ’s millennial reign. The Bible provides us no way to fix the date, and so it does us no good to speculate when that date may be.—Gen. 2:18-25; Matt. 24:42, 44.
This was the first mention of this 'time lapse'. So after 9 years of speculation by the Watchtower and bible tract society, they print a 'loophole' in the calculations and claim it does no good to speculate! Now hang on a minute! Who has been doing the speculating here? The congregation publisher or the men in charge? How could they relegate all the speculating and hope building they did to nothing more than an interesting date in chronology? But they did. And the distancing of the Governing Body from their own writings got grander in the months and years ahead.
Printed in the 12/15 1975 edition of the watchtower is a telling little bit of information:
Many are led to abandon their former course of life and join with Jehovah’s witnesses in pure worship, to the extent that from 1966 to 1975 the number of Jehovah’s witnesses actively engaged in preaching the good news of God’s kingdom in Nigeria has increased by 68,426, to make a grand total of 112,164 persons. This represents an increase of 156 percent in ten years!
1966 was the first mention of of 1975 to the world wide brotherhood and 1975 pretty much the end of it too. The huge growth was no doubt due to the anticipated events of 1975! What effect on a real level did it have on people?
5/74 km:
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 poineer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked worlds end.- John 2:17
The Kingdom ministry of 9/1974:
Fine Opportunities Ahead for the 1975 Service Year
1 As we enter the new service year, we have a feeling of keen anticipation. We are well aware that we are now nearly sixty years into the “conclusion of the system of things,” and that the time remaining is short. None of us know exactly when the “great tribulation” will strike, but we have full confidence that it will come at precisely the time fixed in advance by Jehovah.—Hab. 2:3; Matt. 24:36.
2 But before that time arrives, we have work to do—lots of it! This is evident from the numbers of interested persons that show up at our Kingdom Halls. It is shown in reports that during the past year, in one country after another, record numbers of persons presented themselves for baptism as dedicated servants of Jehovah. It is also evident from the number of persons who accept our literature when we call at their homes, and from the worldwide increase in the number of home Bible studies. There is every indication that many more persons will yet come out of darkness into God’s wonderful light.—Isa. 60:11, 12, 22; compare 1 Peter 2:9.
Kingdom mistry 11/1974:
Branch Letter
Dear Kingdom Publishers:
The figures are now in, and indeed this past service year has had Jehovah’s blessing. The number of publishers in the United States increased 15 percent; that means, on an average, 66,878 more praisers of Jehovah. This, in turn, made necessary 483 additional congregations, for a total of 6,542 just in this country. The tremendous increase is also reflected in the number baptized. There was an all-time record of 81,588 persons immersed this past year! Just think—that is more than the annual figure for the whole world just seven years ago. It certainly makes us rejoice to see so many persons get started on the way that leads to real life.
Indeed, many sold up everything they had. Many put off medical procedures, many did not pursue education. So sure they were that Jehovah would not fail them.
But the situation was changing later in the year, the KM 11/1975:
Branch Letter
Dear Kingdom Publishers:
Everyone is keenly interested in what happened in the United States during the 1975 service year. Well, we had a fine new peak of 560,879 publishers, with a monthly average of 534,765.
However, one million fewer bound books were distributed this year, the total being 8,887,673. Another point: while a really marvelous witness was given and 92,925,486 hours were spent in giving the Kingdom proclamation, yet this was 6,725,000 fewer hours than the previous year, even though we had 28,398 more workers in the field each month. Why?
Here is the answer: The monthly average of hours for the special pioneers was one hour less than for the year before. Regular pioneers’ also averaged one hour less, as did the temporary pioneers and the congregation publishers. That totals 6,417,000 fewer hours than for the previous year. Nevertheless, a truly remarkable witness was given. Maybe in 1976 all of us can pay a little more attention to budgeting our time. The apostle Paul said, ‘We must buy out the opportune time.’—Eph. 5:16.
Another thought-provoking point was the drop of 10,000 in the number of home Bible studies conducted weekly. Interestingly, there were also 10,000 fewer persons baptized. Bible study activity is something that we are going to try to improve by use of the three new study booklets during the Watchtower campaign. These will provide a good basis for return visits. So we hope and pray that the first four months of the 1976 calendar year will see a fine increase in this activity. A vital part of our work is to try to make disciples of Christ Jesus.
By december 75 the Society wrote in the Km 12/1975:
To All Bodies of Elders
December 1, 1975
Dear Brothers:
We are confident that this finds all of you ‘paying attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son.’ (Acts 20:28) These are serious times and our concern for our brothers and for their spiritual welfare calls for very thoughtful attention to their needs and interests.
We can be grateful that we do not face an impending apostasy, as was the case with Christian overseers in the apostle Paul’s day. (Acts 20:29, 30) We do, nevertheless, face trials and tests and dangers, and this is certainly not the time for relaxing our vigil on behalf of all the flock. Though enjoying a spiritual paradise, we should still have the same concern for our brothers, and particularly for the weak, that the apostle Paul expressed at 2 Corinthians 11:28, 29.—Rom. 15:1.
The 12/1976 Km:
Since our hours have decreased on the average from 9.6 in 1975 to 9.1 (or close to 8 million fewer hours), this is a good time to think about ways we can personally reverse this trend. Our each spending just one additional hour in Jehovah’s service each month would put the average over 10 again
The world wide organization was now very discouraged. For 9 years the Society had speculated on 1975. Those who sold up and spent life savings in the pioneer service were praised. Now, the tone of the Society was changing. Those who had flogged themselves before 1975 in the Pioneer work were now critisized for dropping ONE hour a month!
The Watchtower of 7/15 1976:
BE CAREFUL TO KEEP A BALANCED VIEW
All of us can make improvements in our worship of God, cementing a closer relationship with him. Perhaps we have up to this time done the best we can, and have made improvements as we went along. Does the fact that the end is very near, then, mean to us that we should make big changes in our way of living and serving God? Not necessarily so. However, there may be major improvements that we Scripturally need to make. Also, if there are areas in our life in which we can ‘buy out’ time from vain pursuits in this system we should do it. In this way, many have continued to experience the joy of full-time “pioneer” service over the years. All of us can check to see what we can do.—Eph. 5:15, 16.
15 But it is not advisable for us to set our sights on a certain date, neglecting everyday things we would ordinarily care for as Christians, such as things that we and our families really need. We may be forgetting that, when the “day” comes, it will not change the principle that Christians must at all times take care of all their responsibilities. If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint, seeing that it was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment, but that his own understanding was based on wrong premises.
16 However, say that you are one who counted heavily on a date, and, commendably, set your attention more strictly on the urgency of the times and the need of the people to hear. And say you now, temporarily, feel somewhat disappointed; are you really the loser? Are you really hurt? We believe you can say that you have gained and profited by taking this conscientious course. Also, you have been enabled to get a really mature, more reasonable viewpoint.—Eph. 5:1-17.
17 The Scriptures repeatedly tell us that the end will come as a complete surprise upon the world. The apostle spoke of this, saying: “You yourselves know quite well that Jehovah’s day [for judgment] is coming exactly as a thief in the night.” (1 Thess. 5:2) So that true Christians would not be ‘overtaken as thieves,’ Jesus said even to his disciples back there, and to us today: “Keep on the watch, therefore, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” Thereafter he said: “Prove yourselves ready, because at an hour that you do not think to be it, the Son of man is coming.” (Matt. 24:42-44) These clear statements of Jesus indicate that God’s servants will never be given the date of Christ’s “coming” for judgment until it actually takes place. In fact, it will come at what appears to them an ‘unlikely’ time.—Luke 12:39, 40.
From proclaiming that the increases were a sign of Jehovah's blessing, they went to blaming the brothers for 'slacking off'. The brothers were instructed to work harder to reverse the losses.
The fault was in the brothers own wrong understanding! Now those who were praised for 'selling homes and property' were told off for neglegting responsabilities! Urging them to do more, the responsability to turn it around was theirs! And to top it off, they dismissed their own responsability for the false hopes by basically saying "well no harm done, you wern't really hurt anyway! It did you good, you got more mature!"
At no time would the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society conclude that just as the growth was proof of God's blessing that the decline must also be proof of God's disfavour. For it was appearing that they had actually run ahead of Jehovah. No such admissions were made. They were quite silent on the subject for the next four years in fact. Finally, the outcry from the worldwide brotherhood grew too loud, and they were forced to make some sort of answer.
This came in the Watchtower of 3/15 1980:
Hold to Your Choice!
4 If we remain faithful, God will not let us make ruinous mistakes. But sometimes he permits us to be in error so that we may see our need to look always to him and his Word. This strengthens our relationship with him and our endurance while waiting. We learn from our mistakes that it is necessary to be more careful in the future. The desire for the new system of things to take complete charge of the earth has always been very strong in Christians down through the centuries. And because of their own short life-span, they doubtless longed for it to come in their particular lifetime. Those who have tried to keep God’s judgment time “close in mind” have, on more than one occasion throughout history, become overly eager for that day’s arrival, in their own minds trying to rush the arrival of the desired events. (2 Pet. 3:12) In the first century, for example, the apostle Paul found it necessary to write to Christians in Thessalonica in this fashion, as we read at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3: “However, brothers, respecting the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we request of you not to be quickly shaken from your reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us, to the effect that the day of Jehovah is here. Let no one seduce you in any manner, because it will not come unless the apostasy comes first and the man of lawlessness gets revealed, the son of destruction.”
5 In modern times such eagerness, commendable in itself, has led to attempts at setting dates for the desired liberation from the suffering and troubles that are the lot of persons throughout the earth. With the appearance of the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God, and its comments as to how appropriate it would be for the millennial reign of Christ to parallel the seventh millennium of man’s existence, considerable expectation was aroused regarding the year 1975. There were statements made then, and thereafter, stressing that this was only a possibility. Unfortunately, however, along with such cautionary information, 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.
6 In its issue of July 15, 1976, The Watchtower, commenting on the inadvisability of setting our sights on a certain date, stated: “If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint, seeing that it was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment, but that his own understanding was based on wrong premises.” In saying “anyone,” The Watchtower included all disappointed ones of Jehovah’s Witnesses, hence including persons having to do with the publication of the information that contributed to the buildup of hopes centered on that date.
The giving of Society approved convention talks on the subject further built up the hype over '75. If you listen to recordings of those talks, what do you hear? After using the word 'possibly' the speakers then proceed to give lengthy discourses on the nitty gritty of armageddon. Conventioners would go away talking about armageddon and the word 'possibly' would not even register! Why did they do that? Really, armageddon could 'possibly' come in 'any' year. The Society truly believed that IT WOULD come in 1975, otherwise they would have left the date as mearly one of chronlogical interest being the end of 6,000 years of human history, and left the speculation out of it, for again i say, it could come in 'any' year!
The 1980 watchtower quoted above is a poor explanation of events. For nowhere do they take any responsability for what it wrote in those 9 years up to 1975, nor for the fuel added to the fire by excited and enthusiastic public representatives of the society. The article puts 1975 in the box of not a serious error... just a little one allowed by Jehovah to teach us something... and besides, the fault lies with the individuals who got the wrong idea! They are the ones that need to adjust their veiwpoint! Ok, so some of the Governing Body were disapointed too, but they were not the ones that sacrificed anything.
The Proclaimers book of 1993 knocked back the history of it to 3 short paragraphs:
“Say, What Does This 1975 Mean?”
The Witnesses had long shared the belief that the Thousand Year Reign of Christ would follow after 6,000 years of human history. But when would 6,000 years of human existence end? The book Life Everlasting—In Freedom of the Sons of God, released at a series of district conventions held in 1966, pointed to 1975. Right at the convention, as the brothers examined the contents, the new book triggered much discussion about 1975.
At the convention held in Baltimore, Maryland, F. W. Franz gave the concluding talk. He began by saying: “Just before I got on the platform a young man came to me and said, ‘Say, what does this 1975 mean?’” Brother Franz then referred to the many questions that had arisen as to whether the material in the new book meant that by 1975 Armageddon would be finished, and Satan would be bound. He stated, in essence: ‘It could. But we are not saying. All things are possible with God. But we are not saying. And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975. But the big point of it all is this, dear friends: Time is short. Time is running out, no question about that.’
In the years following 1966, many of Jehovah’s Witnesses acted in harmony with the spirit of that counsel. However, other statements were published on this subject, and some were likely more definite than advisable. This was acknowledged in The Watchtower of March 15, 1980 (page 17). But Jehovah’s Witnesses were also cautioned to concentrate mainly on doing Jehovah’s will and not to be swept up by dates and expectations of an early salvation.
What is to be made of this short mention? From a perspective of 18 years after 1975, and no doubt news to a great many who came into the 'truth' in the '80s, it seems a non issue. The section gets read in a spirit of defense... note the numerous times that 'we are not saying' type of language is used. 'Many acted in harmony' makes it appear that a smaller number were the ones making too much of it. 'Cautioned to concentrate on doing Jehovah's will' leaves out all the context around those sort of comments... the urgency, it's so close, only 90 months left etc etc.
BUT, in the few years before 1975, it all had a completely different perspective. To those back then, there was no doubt, globally and universaly among the Witnesses, from the United States to Africa what the Watchtower Society were saying.
What is missing is this; An apology from them. A real apology to all those who sold up everything, to those who never married or had children. To those who today are in their 50s to 70s and have no financial security because they spent an entire life preaching for a publishing company.
So there you have it, all about 1975 directly from the pages of the WBTS publications. And i can guarentee you that if you ask an 'oldie' about 1975, they will deny everything! None of them want to admit they were sucked in by a clever publishing company and its drive to get more books sold.
You may wonder why i mention such a long forgotten time to youths today!
Some pretty momentous things were expected for that year. You see, the Jehovah's Witnesses, true to their Adventist herritage (Oh yes!) did not stop setting dates and raising hopes. I have some first hand knowledge of this time, for i was 13 that year. It had a far reaching effect on my family. If you are willing to stick with me here, i will outline what i am talking about. I will only post material from your own societies publications and my personal comments there-on.(Blue highlighting mine)
The following is from the Watchtower of 10/15 1966 in an article on the “God’s Sons of Liberty” District Assemblies
To give aid today in this critical time to prospective sons of God,” announced President Knorr, “a new book in English, entitled ‘Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God,’ has been published.” At all assembly points where it was released, the book was received enthusiastically. Crowds gathered around stands and soon supplies of the book were depleted. Immediately its contents were examined. It did not take the brothers very long to find the chart beginning on page 31, showing that 6,000 years of man’s existence end in 1975. Discussion of 1975 overshadowed about everything else. “The new book compels us to realize that Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed,” said a conventioner. Surely it was one of the outstanding blessings to be carried home!
THE YEAR 1975
At the Baltimore assembly Brother Franz in his closing remarks made some interesting comments regarding the year 1975. He began casually by saying, “Just before I got on the platform a young man came to me and said, ‘Say, what does this 1975 mean? Does it mean this, that or any other thing?’” In part, Brother Franz went on to say: ‘You have noticed the chart [on pages 31-35 in the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God]. It shows that 6,000 years of human experience will end in 1975, about nine years from now. What does that mean? Does it mean that God’s rest day began 4026 B.C.E.? It could have. The Life Everlasting book does not say it did not. The book merely presents the chronology. You can accept it or reject it. If that is the case, what does that mean to us? [He went into some length showing the feasibility of the 4026 B.C.E. date as being the beginning of God’s rest day.]
‘What about the year 1975? What is it going to mean, dear friends?’ asked Brother Franz. ‘Does it mean that Armageddon is going to be finished, with Satan bound, by 1975? It could! It could! All things are possible with God. Does it mean that Babylon the Great is going to go down by 1975? It could. Does it mean that the attack of Gog of Magog is going to be made on Jehovah’s witnesses to wipe them out, then Gog himself will be put out of action? It could. But we are not saying. All things are possible with God. But we are not saying. And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975. But the big point of it all is this, dear friends: Time is short. Time is running out, no question about that.
‘When we were approaching the end of the Gentile Times in 1914, there was no sign that the Gentile Times were going to end. Conditions on earth gave us no hint of what was to come, even as late as June of that year. Then suddenly there was a murder. World War I broke out. You know the rest. Famines, earthquakes and pestilences followed, as Jesus foretold would happen.
‘But what do we have today as we approach 1975? Conditions have not been peaceful. We’ve been having world wars, famines, earthquakes, pestilences and we have these conditions still as we approach 1975. Do these things mean something? These things mean that we’re in the “time of the end.” And the end has to come sometime. Jesus said: “As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near.” (Luke 21:28) So we know that as we come to 1975 our deliverance is that much nearer.’
“Let us make the most of the time and get in all the good hard work to Jehovah while the opportunity affords,” he urged.
Now, these were about the first real mentions of 1975, 9 years into the future. As the society said, discussion of 1975 overshadowed everything else! It would be very naive to think that the writers of the book, and Fred Franz would be ignorant of the effect this would have on the brothers. They could not expect anything less than mass speculation of what they had set in motion. 'it could' was said 3 times for emphasis.
Now, i know that those of you still with me will be pointing to this bit: And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975.
Yes, it is true that Fred Franz tried to introduce caution here. For he knew all to well what was likely to happen. Indeed was happening. True, in his talk and in the book nothing specific was said, save for the huge expectation that something was likely to happen in 1975.
Then came the Watchtower of 7/15 1967 with this in an article:
A THOUSAND-YEAR REBUILDING PERIOD
According to the Bible timetable, man’s history on earth has been nearly 6,000 years. Adam was created in 4026 B.C.E., which means that six thousand years of human history end about the fall of 1975 C.E. We are in the great 7,000-year rest day of God, starting at the time he rested after the creation of Adam and Eve. There are, therefore, a thousand years left to run. Without Satan and his demons to disturb mankind it will indeed be a restful time. It will be like a sabbath. In a way it will be a sabbath within a sabbath. The last thousand years of God’s great seven-thousand-year rest is a special sabbath over which the Son of man will be Lord.—Matt. 12:8.
It was well understood by witnesses of the time that that the thousand year rebuilding period was to begin in 1975. With 6,000 years up in that year, the last 1,000 years would be free of Satan, and '75 was that crossover year. This only hightened speculation further.
In the watchtower of 5/1 1967 there appeared this discussion of the 6,000 years:
THE END OF 6,000 YEARS
In examining these Scriptural facts, something else also captures our attention. According to Bible chronology, we are already over fifty-two years into the wicked system of things’ “time of the end.” That time began in the autumn of 1914 C.E., at the termination of the “appointed times of the nations,” and it is already far advanced. Jesus said that “this generation” that saw the beginning of this time period in 1914 would also see its end. The generation that was old enough to view those events with understanding in 1914 is no longer young. It no longer has many years to run. Already many of its members have died. But Jesus showed that there would still be members of “this generation” alive at the time of the passing away of this wicked system of things in both heaven and earth. (Luke 21:32, 33) How much longer will it be, then, before God takes action to destroy the wicked and usher in the blessings of his Kingdom rule?
Interestingly, the autumn of the year 1975 marks the end of 6,000 years of human experience. This is ascertainable from reliable chronology preserved in the Bible itself. What will that year mean for humankind? Will it be the time when God executes the wicked and starts off the thousand-year reign of his Son Jesus Christ? It very well could, but we will have to wait to see. Yet of this we can be certain: the generation that Jesus said would witness those events is nearing its close. The time is close at hand. On God’s “timetable” we are in the closing days of a wicked system of things that will soon be gone forever. A glorious new order is immediately before us. This is, therefore, good reason for Christians everywhere to rejoice. Yes, they rejoice because fulfillment of their prayers for the kingdom of God is now at hand.—Luke 21:28.
What was the result of this article? The linking of the 'generation' now being very old and the year 1975 is made. I notice that the cautionary 'but we have to wait to see' is in the middle of two very speculative statements. Again, this would not be lost on the brothers of the writing department. here was an article that did nothing but continue the hope raising of 1.5 million people.
The Watchtower of 12/15 1968 article:
How We Know It Is Getting Near
10 At the same time the political, financial, economic, social and religious elements are becoming more perplexed, and in their frustration these men are becoming faint not only out of fear but also out of expectation of the things that they can calculate are bound to come upon the earth. World famine is predicted for the year 1975.
What was the effect of this paragraph? It linked the prophecies of the end times to 1975. The brothers were already very excited about 1975, and the publishing of statistics like this had the effect of people saying '' yes! See the sign is coming true! We are very deep into the end..."
Next came a long article in the Watchtower of 8/15 1968:
Why Are You Looking Forward to 1975?
WHAT about all this talk concerning the year 1975? Lively discussions, some based on speculation, have burst into flame during recent months among serious students of the Bible. Their interest has been kindled by the belief that 1975 will mark the end of 6,000 years of human history since Adam’s creation. The nearness of such an important date indeed fires the imagination and presents unlimited possibilities for discussion.
The article then had a very detailed lengthy outline of chronology that concludes with the year 1975. (this chronology can be a whole discussion on its own and will not be discussed in this post) The point of the article was to demonstrate the accuracy of the calculations and the methods used. It then continued:
30 Are we to assume from this study that the battle of Armageddon will be all over by the autumn of 1975, and the long-looked-for thousand-year reign of Christ will begin by then? Possibly, but we wait to see how closely the seventh thousand-year period of man’s existence coincides with the sabbathlike thousand-year reign of Christ. If these two periods run parallel with each other as to the calendar year, it will not be by mere chance or accident but will be according to Jehovah’s loving and timely purposes. Our chronology, however, which is reasonably accurate (but admittedly not infallible), at the best only points to the autumn of 1975 as the end of 6,000 years of man’s existence on earth. It does not necessarily mean that 1975 marks the end of the first 6,000 years of Jehovah’s seventh creative “day.” Why not? Because after his creation Adam lived some time during the “sixth day,” which unknown amount of time would need to be subtracted from Adam’s 930 years, to determine when the sixth seven-thousand-year period or “day” ended, and how long Adam lived into the “seventh day.” And yet the end of that sixth creative “day” could end within the same Gregorian calendar year of Adam’s creation. It may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years
This was an article that even further shored up expectation. It is easy to dismiss it in the light of some 40 years past but bear in mind this was new stuff to the brothers then. To the brothers the society was not just confirming that armageddon could arrive in 1975, but also that they may only be out a few months if any. The President of the society would have been very aware that the brothers were talking about 1975 a lot, this article was certainly keeping the expectation alive and well.
The Watchtower of 5/1 1968 increased the urgency created and felt with this:
Making Wise Use of the Remaining Time
5 Therefore, God’s seventh day and the time man has been on earth apparently run parallel. To calculate where man is in the stream of time relative to God’s seventh day of 7,000 years, we need to determine how long a time has elapsed from the year of Adam and Eve’s creation in 4026 B.C.E. From the autumn of that year to the autumn of 1 B.C.E., there would be 4,025 years. From the autumn of 1 B.C.E. to the autumn of 1 C.E. is one year (there was no zero year). From the autumn of 1 C.E. to the autumn of 1967 is a total of 1,966 years. Adding 4,025 and 1 and 1,966, we get 5,992 years from the autumn of 4026 B.C.E. to the autumn of 1967. Thus, eight years remain to account for a full 6,000 years of the seventh day. Eight years from the autumn of 1967 would bring us to the autumn of 1975, fully 6,000 years into God’s seventh day, his rest day.
8 Does this mean that the year 1975 will bring the battle of Armageddon? No one can say with certainty what any particular year will bring. Jesus said: “Concerning that day or the hour nobody knows.” (Mark 13:32) Sufficient is it for God’s servants to know for a certainty that, for this system under Satan, time is running out rapidly. How foolish a person would be not to be awake and alert to the limited time remaining, to the earthshaking events soon to take place, and to the need to work out one’s salvation!
USE IT WISELY
14 Ours are “critical times hard to deal with,” for they are the “last days.” (2 Tim. 3:1) “Wicked men and impostors will advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled.” (2 Tim. 3:13) Surely, Christians want to use their remaining time in this system of things wisely, for the right purpose, so they are not overcome by these bad times so “hard to deal with” due to Satan’s schemes and assaults. But how can we do this? One way is by not wasting time on unprofitable pursuits. This we will do if, to the best of our ability and circumstances, we follow the lead of Jehovah through his visible organization on earth today. Through his visible arrangement we receive counsel on how best to use our time. Meetings are provided for receiving uplift spiritually. There is also wholesome, stimulating activity in preaching the truths we learn to others.—Matt. 24:45-47.
15 True, much of our time is consumed in preparing, going to meetings and out in the ministry. In fact, it seems as though such a schedule leaves little time for other pursuits. But do you think such is an accident? Does Jehovah not know what is best for his people in these very dark and critical days? Aside from the primary purpose of educating us in Jehovah’s purposes and requirements so we can carry out his will, the consuming of our time at meetings and in the ministry means that God’s servants are doing the right thing and will not be in another place doing the wrong thing! The more time they spend working with Jehovah’s visible organization, the less time they will have left to get into difficulty. Yes, the arrangements Jehovah has provided now are certainly a source of great protection. “The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous runs and is given protection.”—Prov. 18:10.
18 To use our time even more wisely, we need to become proficient in our lifesaving work. We want to do more than just occupy our time with the ministry. We want to make the best use of that time we spend, and we can do that if we put our heart into what we do and endeavor to improve the quality of our service to Jehovah. At 1 Corinthians 9:26 Paul said: “The way I am directing my blows is so as not to be striking the air.” Paul was not going to waste time and energy in accomplishing little or nothing. He would learn to direct his efforts skillfully to use in the best way the time he spent. We can do the same. If we do, we will be productive in the ministry, diligently working to find, feed and tenderly care for interested persons with whom we come in contact.
Now things were warming up. It almost appeared that it was no longer speculation. Counsel was coming through that it was important to stay busy. Get out in the field service and don't get caught wasting time on 'unprofitable' pursuits. Anything that was not meeting or service related was not wise.
Watchtower of 4/15 1968 also had another thought provoker:
What the Future Holds for You
Mankind faces the threat of annihilation. Yet, to what future can you confidently look?
“MANY signs are appearing on the international horizon which are reminiscent of what happened before the outbreak of World War II,” noted an editorial in the U.S. News & World Report of October 9, 1967. A few months before, United Nations Secretary-General U Thant observed: “I’m afraid we are entering today the first phase of World War III.”
The world situation is unquestionably dangerous, and is fast becoming more so. Preparations for war go on at an accelerated rate, and as more nations acquire atomic weapons, the danger increases. In addition to the peril of war, the present population explosion poses a threat of even greater food shortages and widespread starvation. In their new book, Famine—1975!, two noted food experts, William and Paul Paddock, make this forecast for the future, on page 61:
“By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations—all because hunger will turn inexorably into starvation and starvation will become widespread famine.”
No wonder there is great anxiety and bewilderment as people contemplate the future. But is the situation really so critical? Does the World actually face disaster? What does the future hold for you?
UNPRECEDENTED TRIBULATION AT HAND
Jesus Christ, God’s greatest prophet, pointed forward to a period of unusual distress, and his description matches perfectly conditions prevailing since World War I in 1914. For instance, among other things, he foretold: “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be food shortages . . . in one place after another.” Wars of unprecedented scope and widespread famine! And of what are such conditions a sign? Jesus explained that they were to mark his invisible presence in Kingdom power, and “the conclusion of the system of things.”—Matt. 24:3-14; Luke 21:7-33.
Thus, the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy, currently being experienced, indicates that the complete end of this system of things is at hand! Jesus compared the destruction that is soon to occur with what actually happened once before in human history. He said: “For just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be. For as they . . . took no note until the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be.” (Matt. 24:37-39) Yes, Jehovah God actually brought a world of wicked mankind to ruin in Noah’s day.
Whether men choose to recognize the fact or not, this system soon faces a similar destruction. It will occur at what the Bible calls “the war of the great day of God the Almighty,” or Armageddon. (Rev. 16:14-16) At that time the tribulation upon ungodly mankind will exceed any ever before experienced. In the course of God’s execution, all political organizations and alliances will be broken down. There will be wild confusion. Every man’s hand will be against his neighbor. (Ezek. 38:21; Zech. 14:13) The disorder, terror and strife will surpass even that experienced when the floodwaters rose above the heads of those struggling to escape in Noah’s day.
Jesus indicated this when he said: “For then there will be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again.” (Matt. 24:21) Happily, however, there will be survivors, even as there were Flood survivors. Jehovah’s executional forces will bring their executional swords down only “upon those who do not know God and those who do not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus.”—2 Thess. 1:7-9.
DESTRUCTION OR PRESERVATION?
The future, therefore, is clear-cut. Faced with Armageddon, people today are going in either one of two directions. They are either supporting this system of things and stubbornly refusing to lean about Jehovah God or they are showing that they truly love Him by taking up His service in imitation of Jesus. There are just the two courses—one leads to everlasting life and the other to eternal destruction. “Jehovah is guarding all those loving him,” the Bible says, “but all the wicked ones he will annihilate.”—Ps. 145:20.
Notice again the reference to 1975 in a quote about the year. This certainly gave us all further confirmation that the end would come in '75 as the rest of the article again focused on armageddon and admonition to make sure we were not wasting time.
Which course of action are you taking? Do you put Jehovah God and his interests first, or do you selfishly pursue the pleasures and comforts of the world, making them your chief concern? Do not try to deceive yourself. You cannot be on both sides.—Matt. 6:24.
The Watchtower of 2/1 1969 stated:
More recently, the book entitled “Famine—1975!” by William and Paul Paddock said concerning today’s food shortages, on pages 52, 55 and 61: “Hunger is rampant throughout country after country, continent after continent around the undeveloped belt of the tropics and subtropics. Today’s crisis can move in only one direction—toward catastrophe. Today hungry nations; tomorrow starving nations. . . . By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations.”
Followed by the watchtower issue of 10/15 1969 later in the year:
By continued success in the missile field and by beginning to stockpile her weapons in the year 1972, and then keeping this up, the Communist Chinese “should be in a position to deploy 15 or 20 Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles by about 1975.”—New York Times, February 3, 1969.
What are we to think of these quotes in 1969, after 1968 issues having a lot to say on 1975? It was the keeping of the date in peoples minds. It was confirmation that 1975 indeed was going to be year to watch!
January 1970 Watchtower kicked off with another reminder, 5/1 1970:
How close we may exactly be to the end of the present divisive system of things cannot be predicted, as Jesus reported that even he did not know the day or the hour at the time of his earthly ministry. (Matt. 24:36) However, Bible chronology which indicates that Adam was created in the fall of the year 4026 B.C.E. would bring us down to the year 1975 C.E. as the date marking 6,000 years of human history with yet 1,000 years to come for Christ’s Kingdom rule. So whatever the date for the end of this system, it is clear that the time left is reduced, with only approximately six years left until the end of 6,000 years of human history. (1 Cor. 7:29) This corroborates the understanding of Jesus’ words that the generation alive in 1914 with the outbreak of World War I would not pass away until the end comes. Only a short time, then, remains for persons who love righteousness to show God that they want to be in his “ark” of protection and live to see the blessings of the new system of things
There is a lot of power in this paragraph. Note how it says that Jesus did not know at the time of his earthly ministry? Don't forget that Jesus had arrived invisbly in 1914, so it follows that he did know by 1970 of course.
Note also the emphasis on this: Jesus reported that even he did not know the day or the hour at the time of his earthly ministry. (Matt. 24:36) However, Bible chronology which indicates that Adam was created in the fall of the year 4026 B.C.E. would bring us down to the year 1975.
Can you see it? Did not know day or hour HOWEVER chronology brings us to the year 1975. There is obvious speculation to the point of almost saying it would come in '75. Correct, it does not say it, but it sure is suggested, and backed by complex chronology and prophecy.
After leaving the situation alone for a while, the Watchtower of 12/15 1974 mentions it again:
And now, as the critical year of 1975 enters, it may well be asked: Has the Most High God of prophecy made a name for himself? The answer is self-evident, Yes! By whom? Not by Christendom or by Jewry, but by Jehovah’s Christian witnesses!
If you enter 1975 into the search of the CD Library, when you look at the number of references to 1975 you find huge jump in references. From 7 mentions in '74 WT's to 70 in the '75 issues.
Many of the references are in fact to show the horrible state of the world in 1975. So, as they entered the year, Jehovah's Witnesses were all exteremely alert. The pointing out of the earths woes and mankinds inability to fix them only served to make them even more anxious in the lead up to Autumn of that year. But by October, Autumn had past and nothing had happened. Not one part of the events to happen before armageddon could occur had happened either.
So, in the 10/1 1975 Watchtower this was printed:
Does this mean, then, that mankind has now reached 6,000 years into the 7,000-year period that God ‘blessed and made sacred’ as his great “rest day”? Does it mean that Christ’s millennial Kingdom rule, as the final 1,000 years of that “rest day,” is to be reckoned from September 1975?—Gen. 1:27, 31; 2:2, 3; Rev. 20:1-6.
No, it does not mean that. Why not? Well, the Bible record shows that God’s creations on the “day” just preceding that 7,000-year “rest day” did not end with Adam’s creation. It shows a time lapse between the creation of Adam and that of his wife, Eve. During that time, God had Adam name the animals. Whether that period amounted to weeks or months or years, we do not know. So we do not know exactly when Jehovah’s great “rest day” began, nor do we know exactly when it will end. The same applies to the beginning of Christ’s millennial reign. The Bible provides us no way to fix the date, and so it does us no good to speculate when that date may be.—Gen. 2:18-25; Matt. 24:42, 44.
This was the first mention of this 'time lapse'. So after 9 years of speculation by the Watchtower and bible tract society, they print a 'loophole' in the calculations and claim it does no good to speculate! Now hang on a minute! Who has been doing the speculating here? The congregation publisher or the men in charge? How could they relegate all the speculating and hope building they did to nothing more than an interesting date in chronology? But they did. And the distancing of the Governing Body from their own writings got grander in the months and years ahead.
Printed in the 12/15 1975 edition of the watchtower is a telling little bit of information:
Many are led to abandon their former course of life and join with Jehovah’s witnesses in pure worship, to the extent that from 1966 to 1975 the number of Jehovah’s witnesses actively engaged in preaching the good news of God’s kingdom in Nigeria has increased by 68,426, to make a grand total of 112,164 persons. This represents an increase of 156 percent in ten years!
1966 was the first mention of of 1975 to the world wide brotherhood and 1975 pretty much the end of it too. The huge growth was no doubt due to the anticipated events of 1975! What effect on a real level did it have on people?
5/74 km:
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 poineer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked worlds end.- John 2:17
The Kingdom ministry of 9/1974:
Fine Opportunities Ahead for the 1975 Service Year
1 As we enter the new service year, we have a feeling of keen anticipation. We are well aware that we are now nearly sixty years into the “conclusion of the system of things,” and that the time remaining is short. None of us know exactly when the “great tribulation” will strike, but we have full confidence that it will come at precisely the time fixed in advance by Jehovah.—Hab. 2:3; Matt. 24:36.
2 But before that time arrives, we have work to do—lots of it! This is evident from the numbers of interested persons that show up at our Kingdom Halls. It is shown in reports that during the past year, in one country after another, record numbers of persons presented themselves for baptism as dedicated servants of Jehovah. It is also evident from the number of persons who accept our literature when we call at their homes, and from the worldwide increase in the number of home Bible studies. There is every indication that many more persons will yet come out of darkness into God’s wonderful light.—Isa. 60:11, 12, 22; compare 1 Peter 2:9.
Kingdom mistry 11/1974:
Branch Letter
Dear Kingdom Publishers:
The figures are now in, and indeed this past service year has had Jehovah’s blessing. The number of publishers in the United States increased 15 percent; that means, on an average, 66,878 more praisers of Jehovah. This, in turn, made necessary 483 additional congregations, for a total of 6,542 just in this country. The tremendous increase is also reflected in the number baptized. There was an all-time record of 81,588 persons immersed this past year! Just think—that is more than the annual figure for the whole world just seven years ago. It certainly makes us rejoice to see so many persons get started on the way that leads to real life.
Indeed, many sold up everything they had. Many put off medical procedures, many did not pursue education. So sure they were that Jehovah would not fail them.
But the situation was changing later in the year, the KM 11/1975:
Branch Letter
Dear Kingdom Publishers:
Everyone is keenly interested in what happened in the United States during the 1975 service year. Well, we had a fine new peak of 560,879 publishers, with a monthly average of 534,765.
However, one million fewer bound books were distributed this year, the total being 8,887,673. Another point: while a really marvelous witness was given and 92,925,486 hours were spent in giving the Kingdom proclamation, yet this was 6,725,000 fewer hours than the previous year, even though we had 28,398 more workers in the field each month. Why?
Here is the answer: The monthly average of hours for the special pioneers was one hour less than for the year before. Regular pioneers’ also averaged one hour less, as did the temporary pioneers and the congregation publishers. That totals 6,417,000 fewer hours than for the previous year. Nevertheless, a truly remarkable witness was given. Maybe in 1976 all of us can pay a little more attention to budgeting our time. The apostle Paul said, ‘We must buy out the opportune time.’—Eph. 5:16.
Another thought-provoking point was the drop of 10,000 in the number of home Bible studies conducted weekly. Interestingly, there were also 10,000 fewer persons baptized. Bible study activity is something that we are going to try to improve by use of the three new study booklets during the Watchtower campaign. These will provide a good basis for return visits. So we hope and pray that the first four months of the 1976 calendar year will see a fine increase in this activity. A vital part of our work is to try to make disciples of Christ Jesus.
By december 75 the Society wrote in the Km 12/1975:
To All Bodies of Elders
December 1, 1975
Dear Brothers:
We are confident that this finds all of you ‘paying attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son.’ (Acts 20:28) These are serious times and our concern for our brothers and for their spiritual welfare calls for very thoughtful attention to their needs and interests.
We can be grateful that we do not face an impending apostasy, as was the case with Christian overseers in the apostle Paul’s day. (Acts 20:29, 30) We do, nevertheless, face trials and tests and dangers, and this is certainly not the time for relaxing our vigil on behalf of all the flock. Though enjoying a spiritual paradise, we should still have the same concern for our brothers, and particularly for the weak, that the apostle Paul expressed at 2 Corinthians 11:28, 29.—Rom. 15:1.
The 12/1976 Km:
Since our hours have decreased on the average from 9.6 in 1975 to 9.1 (or close to 8 million fewer hours), this is a good time to think about ways we can personally reverse this trend. Our each spending just one additional hour in Jehovah’s service each month would put the average over 10 again
The world wide organization was now very discouraged. For 9 years the Society had speculated on 1975. Those who sold up and spent life savings in the pioneer service were praised. Now, the tone of the Society was changing. Those who had flogged themselves before 1975 in the Pioneer work were now critisized for dropping ONE hour a month!
The Watchtower of 7/15 1976:
BE CAREFUL TO KEEP A BALANCED VIEW
All of us can make improvements in our worship of God, cementing a closer relationship with him. Perhaps we have up to this time done the best we can, and have made improvements as we went along. Does the fact that the end is very near, then, mean to us that we should make big changes in our way of living and serving God? Not necessarily so. However, there may be major improvements that we Scripturally need to make. Also, if there are areas in our life in which we can ‘buy out’ time from vain pursuits in this system we should do it. In this way, many have continued to experience the joy of full-time “pioneer” service over the years. All of us can check to see what we can do.—Eph. 5:15, 16.
15 But it is not advisable for us to set our sights on a certain date, neglecting everyday things we would ordinarily care for as Christians, such as things that we and our families really need. We may be forgetting that, when the “day” comes, it will not change the principle that Christians must at all times take care of all their responsibilities. If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint, seeing that it was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment, but that his own understanding was based on wrong premises.
16 However, say that you are one who counted heavily on a date, and, commendably, set your attention more strictly on the urgency of the times and the need of the people to hear. And say you now, temporarily, feel somewhat disappointed; are you really the loser? Are you really hurt? We believe you can say that you have gained and profited by taking this conscientious course. Also, you have been enabled to get a really mature, more reasonable viewpoint.—Eph. 5:1-17.
17 The Scriptures repeatedly tell us that the end will come as a complete surprise upon the world. The apostle spoke of this, saying: “You yourselves know quite well that Jehovah’s day [for judgment] is coming exactly as a thief in the night.” (1 Thess. 5:2) So that true Christians would not be ‘overtaken as thieves,’ Jesus said even to his disciples back there, and to us today: “Keep on the watch, therefore, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” Thereafter he said: “Prove yourselves ready, because at an hour that you do not think to be it, the Son of man is coming.” (Matt. 24:42-44) These clear statements of Jesus indicate that God’s servants will never be given the date of Christ’s “coming” for judgment until it actually takes place. In fact, it will come at what appears to them an ‘unlikely’ time.—Luke 12:39, 40.
From proclaiming that the increases were a sign of Jehovah's blessing, they went to blaming the brothers for 'slacking off'. The brothers were instructed to work harder to reverse the losses.
The fault was in the brothers own wrong understanding! Now those who were praised for 'selling homes and property' were told off for neglegting responsabilities! Urging them to do more, the responsability to turn it around was theirs! And to top it off, they dismissed their own responsability for the false hopes by basically saying "well no harm done, you wern't really hurt anyway! It did you good, you got more mature!"
At no time would the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society conclude that just as the growth was proof of God's blessing that the decline must also be proof of God's disfavour. For it was appearing that they had actually run ahead of Jehovah. No such admissions were made. They were quite silent on the subject for the next four years in fact. Finally, the outcry from the worldwide brotherhood grew too loud, and they were forced to make some sort of answer.
This came in the Watchtower of 3/15 1980:
Hold to Your Choice!
4 If we remain faithful, God will not let us make ruinous mistakes. But sometimes he permits us to be in error so that we may see our need to look always to him and his Word. This strengthens our relationship with him and our endurance while waiting. We learn from our mistakes that it is necessary to be more careful in the future. The desire for the new system of things to take complete charge of the earth has always been very strong in Christians down through the centuries. And because of their own short life-span, they doubtless longed for it to come in their particular lifetime. Those who have tried to keep God’s judgment time “close in mind” have, on more than one occasion throughout history, become overly eager for that day’s arrival, in their own minds trying to rush the arrival of the desired events. (2 Pet. 3:12) In the first century, for example, the apostle Paul found it necessary to write to Christians in Thessalonica in this fashion, as we read at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3: “However, brothers, respecting the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we request of you not to be quickly shaken from your reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us, to the effect that the day of Jehovah is here. Let no one seduce you in any manner, because it will not come unless the apostasy comes first and the man of lawlessness gets revealed, the son of destruction.”
5 In modern times such eagerness, commendable in itself, has led to attempts at setting dates for the desired liberation from the suffering and troubles that are the lot of persons throughout the earth. With the appearance of the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God, and its comments as to how appropriate it would be for the millennial reign of Christ to parallel the seventh millennium of man’s existence, considerable expectation was aroused regarding the year 1975. There were statements made then, and thereafter, stressing that this was only a possibility. Unfortunately, however, along with such cautionary information, 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.
6 In its issue of July 15, 1976, The Watchtower, commenting on the inadvisability of setting our sights on a certain date, stated: “If anyone has been disappointed through not following this line of thought, he should now concentrate on adjusting his viewpoint, seeing that it was not the word of God that failed or deceived him and brought disappointment, but that his own understanding was based on wrong premises.” In saying “anyone,” The Watchtower included all disappointed ones of Jehovah’s Witnesses, hence including persons having to do with the publication of the information that contributed to the buildup of hopes centered on that date.
The giving of Society approved convention talks on the subject further built up the hype over '75. If you listen to recordings of those talks, what do you hear? After using the word 'possibly' the speakers then proceed to give lengthy discourses on the nitty gritty of armageddon. Conventioners would go away talking about armageddon and the word 'possibly' would not even register! Why did they do that? Really, armageddon could 'possibly' come in 'any' year. The Society truly believed that IT WOULD come in 1975, otherwise they would have left the date as mearly one of chronlogical interest being the end of 6,000 years of human history, and left the speculation out of it, for again i say, it could come in 'any' year!
The 1980 watchtower quoted above is a poor explanation of events. For nowhere do they take any responsability for what it wrote in those 9 years up to 1975, nor for the fuel added to the fire by excited and enthusiastic public representatives of the society. The article puts 1975 in the box of not a serious error... just a little one allowed by Jehovah to teach us something... and besides, the fault lies with the individuals who got the wrong idea! They are the ones that need to adjust their veiwpoint! Ok, so some of the Governing Body were disapointed too, but they were not the ones that sacrificed anything.
The Proclaimers book of 1993 knocked back the history of it to 3 short paragraphs:
“Say, What Does This 1975 Mean?”
The Witnesses had long shared the belief that the Thousand Year Reign of Christ would follow after 6,000 years of human history. But when would 6,000 years of human existence end? The book Life Everlasting—In Freedom of the Sons of God, released at a series of district conventions held in 1966, pointed to 1975. Right at the convention, as the brothers examined the contents, the new book triggered much discussion about 1975.
At the convention held in Baltimore, Maryland, F. W. Franz gave the concluding talk. He began by saying: “Just before I got on the platform a young man came to me and said, ‘Say, what does this 1975 mean?’” Brother Franz then referred to the many questions that had arisen as to whether the material in the new book meant that by 1975 Armageddon would be finished, and Satan would be bound. He stated, in essence: ‘It could. But we are not saying. All things are possible with God. But we are not saying. And don’t any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975. But the big point of it all is this, dear friends: Time is short. Time is running out, no question about that.’
In the years following 1966, many of Jehovah’s Witnesses acted in harmony with the spirit of that counsel. However, other statements were published on this subject, and some were likely more definite than advisable. This was acknowledged in The Watchtower of March 15, 1980 (page 17). But Jehovah’s Witnesses were also cautioned to concentrate mainly on doing Jehovah’s will and not to be swept up by dates and expectations of an early salvation.
What is to be made of this short mention? From a perspective of 18 years after 1975, and no doubt news to a great many who came into the 'truth' in the '80s, it seems a non issue. The section gets read in a spirit of defense... note the numerous times that 'we are not saying' type of language is used. 'Many acted in harmony' makes it appear that a smaller number were the ones making too much of it. 'Cautioned to concentrate on doing Jehovah's will' leaves out all the context around those sort of comments... the urgency, it's so close, only 90 months left etc etc.
BUT, in the few years before 1975, it all had a completely different perspective. To those back then, there was no doubt, globally and universaly among the Witnesses, from the United States to Africa what the Watchtower Society were saying.
What is missing is this; An apology from them. A real apology to all those who sold up everything, to those who never married or had children. To those who today are in their 50s to 70s and have no financial security because they spent an entire life preaching for a publishing company.
So there you have it, all about 1975 directly from the pages of the WBTS publications. And i can guarentee you that if you ask an 'oldie' about 1975, they will deny everything! None of them want to admit they were sucked in by a clever publishing company and its drive to get more books sold.
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