Doctrines and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses

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The following reflects the current beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses. As such, it reflects the point of view of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Contents

[edit] Beliefs

[edit] Basis for Beliefs

Principle is the doctrine of sola scriptura, that is, only the Bible should be used for deciding issues of doctrine. The interpretation and application of scripture is the responsibility of the Governing Body. These ones represent the Faithful and Discreet Slave and are being directed by Jesus Christ.[1] All members are expected to abide by the doctrines and organizational requirements as determined by the Governing Body.[2]

[edit] Bible

The entire Protestant canon of scripture as the inspired, inerrant word of God. A literal interpretation of the Bible is favored, though Bible writers and characters employed symbology, parable, figures of speech, and poeticism[3] The book of Genesis is taken literally, and evolution is rejected.[4] While Genesis is taken literally, they do not believe the creation days would be limited to 24 hour periods or that earth didn't exist before the first "day" of creation[5] The Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures tell the history of the people of Israel as the beneficiaries of God's covenant and recipients of His Law, and prophesy the coming of Jesus Christ[6] The New Testament or Greek Scriptures is a historical account of Jesus and the early Christians. The New Testament particularly is directed to those who hope for a resurrection in heaven, or 144,000.[7] The principles in the Bible are beneficial to everyone.

[edit] The nature of God

God is the creator and supreme being. Jehovah God created Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit is God's means of acting, not the uncreated third person of the Trinity[8] Using God's name, Jehovah, is a requirement for true worship.[9]

[edit] The nature of Christ

Jesus is a created being and God's first creation. Jesus was used by God to create every other creation.[10] Jesus was known as the Archangel Michael in his pre-human existence; his birth on earth was accomplished when God transferred Michael's life force from heaven to the womb of the virgin Mary.[11] While on earth, Jesus was executed for mankind's sins upon a single beamed torture stake. The cross is rejected as a symbol for Christ's death, instead seen as a later pagan addition.[12] Jesus acts as the mediator of the "new covenant" for those going to heaven (the 144,000)[13] Mary was not ever-virgin, but rather bore more children after Jesus[14]

[edit] Worship

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses
Enlarge
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that they are the only true religion.[15] Their worship represents a restoration of first century Christianity. They are organized into congregations, and each congregation has weekly meetings. Men are selected by representatives of the Governing Body to teach and direct the preaching work. Women cannot be teachers in the congregation; though female Witnesses do participate in meeting programs.[16] Prayer is featured at these meetings. As well, prayers are given at meals. Private prayers are given as desired. For a prayer to be acceptable, they must be made to the Father Jehovah in the name of the Son.[17] The use of idols is prohibited. They reject the veneration of Mary, the saints, or the cross.[18]

Jehovah's Witnesses typically have three gatherings each week, which are made up of five meetings, totaling approximately five hours. Meetings are held in local Kingdom Halls and private homes. There are three conventions held annually in facilities owned or maintained by the Watchtower Society or in rented stadiums or auditoriums. Throughout the week, there are also meetings to organize the preaching work where members meet either in homes or Kingdom Halls to organize and pray prior to engaging in evangelism. On Saturday mornings, publishers are usually expected to engage in preaching activity. Watchtower and Awake! magazines are featured, though from time to time, various campaigns are arranged with specific literature offers.[19] Each month, a report is submitted to the congregation elders indicating the number of hours in the ministry, along with other details, and is required to be officially counted as a Jehovah's Witness. On a daily basis, Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to read the Bible and read publications such as Examining the Scriptures Daily, a booklet with a biblical scripture and commentary.

The most important event is the celebration of the Lord's Supper held once a year after sundown on the date corresponding to Nisan 14 on the Hebrew calendar. Only those claiming to be of the "remnant", those who expect to be resurrected in heaven, partake of the unleavened bread and wine. Others simply observe the proceedings without partaking.[20] They do not believe in transubstantiation and consubstantiation (of the Eucharist)[21]

To become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, one must submit to a series of questions to determine eligibility for baptism. Baptisms are normally performed at conventions.

[edit] Eschatology

Main article: Eschatology of Jehovah's Witnesses

The "seven times" of Daniel 4:10-17 are interpreted as a 2,520 year period from 607 BC to 1914 AD, referred to as the "Gentile Times"[22] 607 BC marked the destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem based on the belief that 70 years transpired from destruction of Jerusalem to return of captives from Babylon.[23] In 1914, Jesus' invisible enthronement as King in Heaven was followed by an inspection period of all religions. In 1918 Jesus resurrected those of the 144,000 (the "anointed") who had already died to heavenly life; since 1918, any "anointed" are individually resurrected to heavenly life at the time of their death[24] In 1919, Jehovah's Witnesses were chosen by Jesus as the only true Christian organization.[25]

The "last days" began in 1914.[26] Soon, all other religions will shortly be destroyed by the United Nations.[27] After this, Jehovah's Witnesses will then come under attack. Armageddon immediately follows.[28] All governments, which are under Satan's control, will then be destroyed.[29]

[edit] Salvation

All humanity is in a sinful state (see: Sin).[30] Release from this is possible through the death of Jesus. His death atoned for the sins of humankind.[31] To be saved, one needs faith. It is only by the undeserved kindness (grace) of God which through which one can attain this; works are evidence of faith and cannot gain salvation.[32] There are two destinations for those saved by God. The number of Christians going to heaven is limited to precisely 144,000 (the "anointed") where they will rule with Jesus as kings and priests over Earth.[33] Everyone else who qualifies for salvation living today will survive the coming battle of Armageddon and have the prospect of living forever in an earthly paradise.[34] Jehovah's Witnesses teach that the only scriptural hope of surviving Armageddon comes through adherence to their peculiar biblical interpretations. Those who do not, face destruction at Armageddon.[35][36][37][38][39] The fate of some, such as small children or the mentally ill, remains indeterminate.[40] After Armageddon, an unknown number of dead people will be resurrected, with the prospect of living forever, but those who have already been judged by God will not, such as any killed at Armageddon.[41] Christ will rule for a thousand years, during which time the Earth will be transformed into a paradise, while Satan is abyssed and unable to influence mankind. At the end of the thousand years, Satan will be released, and the final judgment will take place during which Satan and all those corrupted by him will be destroyed forever, with evil never occurring again.[42]

[edit] Death

The soul is believed to be mortal, and that death is a state of non-existence (based on Ezekiel 18:4)[43] Hell (hades or sheol) is not a place of fiery torment, but rather the common grave of mankind, a place of unconsciousness.[44] Those not saved are annihilated (cease of existence) as opposed to damned (eternal existence in hell).[45]

[edit] Blood

Main article: Jehovah's Witnesses and blood
Main articles: Jehovah's Witnesses: Controversial Issues and Jehovah's Witnesses

Whole blood transfusions are rejected.[46] This is based on their understanding of the biblical admonition to "keep abstaining from blood" based on Acts 15:28, 29 (NWT). Blood is not to be stored for later transfusion. As well, the donating of blood is considered improper. According to the individual's conscience of the particular individual, they may accept derivatives of blood, such as normovolemic hemodilution, a treatment that processes the individual's own blood in a closed loop that does not interrupt the flow of blood, delivering it immediately back into the person's body. [1] Also left to conscience are procedures where a "quantity of blood is withdrawn in order to tag it or to mix it with medicine, whereupon it is put back into the patient."[47]

Many members carry carefully prepared durable power of attorney documents indicating that they will accept all fractions derived from blood. The wording of this option reads, "I accept all fractions derived from any primary component of blood." (2003 Guide to Our Three Health Care Documents, p. 11) The conscience of some Witnesses still does not permit the use of fractions derived from blood and these will use non-blood alternatives with varying degrees of success.

The refusal of blood transfusions is frequently a significant issue among medical professionals, especially when it involves minor children. A few children of Jehovah's Witnesses have died as a consequence of not having blood transfusions. In some countries, laws may impose limitations on physicians on the ability to withhold or withdraw blood transfusions or blood therapy from minors, particularly in life-threatening situations; parents who have prevented children under their care from receiving blood therapy in life-threatening situations may face prosecution. Courts have ordered transfusions for some children, often the very young; in other cases they have respected the declared choice of an under-age minor who is able to defend his or her own beliefs to the court in a manner that reflects a mature understanding and without undue influence from the parents.

[edit] Practices

[edit] Discipline

Formal discipline is administered by congregation leaders. In the event an accusation is made concerning a baptized member, if there is sufficient evidence, a tribunal or judicial committee is formed to determine guilt, administer help and possibly apply sanctions. There are three possible formal sanctions that are applied.

[edit] Marking

Someone who chooses a course that is deemed unscriptural, but for which the standard of disfellowshipping would not apply, would be marked. Though such a one would not be shunned, social interaction outside of formal worship settings would generally be restricted. The intent of this cutting off of social fellowship is to shame that person into a course considered proper. Generally, a talk would be given at the Service Meeting outlining the shameful course, but without explicitly naming the wrongdoer.[48]

[edit] Reproof

This involves sins which are more serious than those for which one would be "marked." Reproof is given "before all onlookers." If the sin is private, the reproof would be private. If the sin is known by a small number, they would be invited by the elders, then reproof would be given before both the sinner and those with knowledge of the sin. If the sin is known generally by the entire congregation an announcement of public reproof would be given. A talk is generally given in the case of public reproof, where the wrong course is outlined, but without explicitly naming the people involved.[49]

Reproof is usually linked with a probationary period.[50] Restrictions may include not sharing in meeting parts, not commenting at meeting parts and not praying for a group. The length of the probation period is dependent upon the elders. One cannot pioneer or auxiliary pioneer for at least one year after reproof is given.[51]

[edit] Disfellowshipping

One form of discipline administered is disfellowshipping, or excommunication. This is done at the determination of the judicial committee. The standard put in place to determine if one should be disfellowshipped is the judgment of repentance. To judge repentance, members of the judicial committee ask questions and review actions by the member being considered. The committee must be convinced that the repentance is genuine.[52] Baptized members who disagree on any doctrine can potentially be disfellowshipped for apostasy.[2]

After one is disfellowshipped, all baptized members would cut off all association with that person. Except if the disfellowshipped member is living with family members who are baptized, they could continue to associate with this one, but not to speak about matters pertaining to the religion. The extent to which disfellowshipped or disassociated relatives living in the same household would be included in family life would be left to the discretion of the family.[53] Family members living outside the home who are disfellowshipped, would have minimal contact.[54][55] In the case of doctrinal disagreements, and depending upon the nature and publicity of their disagreement, they may be labelled as an "apostate."[56]

Witnesses feel that disfellowshipping and shunning can have the beneficial effect of both restoring an errant former member to the religion and "upholding God's holy name".[57]

[edit] Construction and Humanitarian Efforts

Jehovah's Witnesses are known in many lands for their building work. International and regional building teams frequently undertake "quick builds", construction of Kingdom Halls over the course of one or two weekends. Larger construction projects, including the building of regional Assembly Halls and Bethel offices, factories, residences, warehouses, and farm facilities, are also carried out almost entirely by volunteer members.

Jehovah's Witnesses are also involved in relief work in disaster stricken areas. One notable example is the relief efforts to both Hutu and Tutsi Witnesses during the genocide in Rwanda as well as to Congo refugees. This humanitarian aid was not given exclusively to Jehovah's Witnesses; others also benefited. For instance, the Witnesses distributed medicine and clothing to several primary schools and an orphanage near Goma.[58]

[edit] Morality

Their view of sexual behavior reflects conservative Christian views. Abortion is considered murder.[59] Homosexuality and premarital sex are considered sins.[60] Modesty is heavily encouraged in dress and grooming. During worship, standards of dress are more formal, varying by country and regional custom. In the U.S., Europe, and most of Asia, this typically consists of formal western business attire. Entertainment with sexuality, materialism, spiritualism or violence is strongly discouraged. Though nonconformist in some ways, they seek not to appear to be "counter-cultural". They avoid appearing unkempt or unprofessional according to local norms. Therefore, in certain areas, aspects of personal appearance such as beards, long hair or earrings for men, along with any dress or grooming that is deemed to be rebellious or immodest is discouraged in everyday settings.

[edit] Nationalism and Holidays

Among Jehovah's Witnesses, there is an avoidance of practices considered to have nationalistic or false religious origins. Examples include not singing the national anthem or not saying "bless you" when someone sneezes. Distinctive titles in address (such as Father, Pastor, Reverend, etc) are not employed. Witnesses address one another as "Brother" or "Sister", often followed by the first or last name of the individual. Despite varied positions of service, these are not used as a title to address the person by, such as in the case, "Elder John".

They avoid celebrations of birthdays and other holidays. Weddings, anniversaries, and funerals are also typically observed. Common religious or national holidays such as Thanksgiving, Birthdays and Christmas are not celebrated.[61][62]

[edit] Family Life

The family structure is patriarchal. Husbands are considered the final authority of family decisions. Wives should be submissive to their husbands and husbands are to have deep respect and love for their wives.[63]

[edit] Neutrality

Neutrality is required, not becoming involved in secular politics or taking part in an election.[64] As well, members refuse any military service; cf. the Peace churches and Quakers)

[edit] References

  1. ^ Christ Leads His Congregation, The Watchtower, March 15, 2002, p. 13-16.
  2. ^ a b Questions From Readers, The Watchtower 1 April, 1986 pp. 30-31.
  3. ^ A Book for All People (1997)
  4. ^ Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? (1998)
  5. ^ Reconsiling Science and Religion; Web version available at http://www.watchtower.org/library/g/2002/6/8/article_01.htm accessed on February 19, 2006
  6. ^ "We Have Found the Messiah"!, The Watchtower October 1, 1992, p. 10.
  7. ^ United In Worship of the Only True God; 1983, p. 111
  8. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, May 15, 2004, p. 29-31.
  9. ^ Why True Worship Receives God's Blessing, The Watchtower April 15, 1996 p. 17.
  10. ^ What Do the Scriptures Say About "the Divinity of Christ"?, The Watchtower January 15, 1992 p. 20-23.
  11. ^ Jesus?The Ruler "Whose Origin Is From Early Times", The Watchtower, June 15, 1998, p. 22.
  12. ^ The Cross—Symbol of Christianity?, The Watchtower, November 15, 1992, p.7.
  13. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, August 15, 1989, p. 30.
  14. ^ Jesus' Family-Who Were They? The Watchtower December 15, 2003, p. 3
  15. ^ Reasoning from the Scriptures p. 203.
  16. ^ The Bible's Viewpoint The 'Weaker Vessel'—An Insult to Women?, Awake! October 8, 1994, p. 19.
  17. ^ Whose Prayers Are Answered?, The Watchtower, January 15, 1990, p. 4.
  18. ^ Is Christendom Truly Christ's Domain? The Watchtower May 1, 1966, p. 277.
  19. ^ “Do the Work of an Evangelizer” The Watchtower, March 15, 2004, p. 10-14
  20. ^ Why Observe the Lord's Evening Meal?, The Watchtower, February 15, 2003, p. 12-15.
  21. ^ The Memorial-Are You Entitled to Partake? The Watchtower February 15, 1952, p. 101.
  22. ^ Be Thankful—Jehovah's Messianic Kingdom Rules, The Watchtower, October 15, 1990, p. 15-20.
  23. ^ The "Cup" That All Nations Must Drink at God's Hand, The Watchtower, September 15, 1979 p. 21-24.
  24. ^ Revelation--It's Grand Climax At Hand!, page 102
  25. ^ Expanded Activities During Christ's Presence, The Watchtower May 1, 1993 p. 16, 17 paragraphs 4-8
  26. ^ "In the Last Days" Since When?, The Watchtower October 1, 1980, p. 19.
  27. ^ Revelation-Its Grand Climax at Hand! (1988), p. 257
  28. ^ Revelation-Its Grand Climax at Hand! (1988), p. 259
  29. ^ Flight to Safety Before the "Great Tribulation", The Watchtower June 1, 1996, p. 14-19.
  30. ^ Jehovah Cares For You, The Watchtower October 15, 2002, p. 15.
  31. ^ "Jesus Saves-How?", The Watchtower November 15, 2001. Web version available at http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/2001/11/15/article_02.htm accessed January 26, 2006.
  32. ^ Keep Your "Hope of Salvation" Bright!, The Watchtower, June 1, 2000, p. 12.
  33. ^ "Have No Fear, Little Flock", The Watchtower, February 15, 1995 p. 18-22.
  34. ^ A Great Crowd Rendering Sacred Service, The Watchtower February 1, 1995, p. 14-17.
  35. ^ Remaining Organized for Survival Into the Millennium , The Watchtower September 1, 1989 p. 19
  36. ^ Dwellers Together in a Restored "Land", The Watchtower July 1, 1995 p. 21
  37. ^ Millions Get Ready for Uninterrupted Life on Earth, The Watchtower October 1, 1983 p. 16
  38. ^ Making All Mankind One Under Their Creator The Watchtower April 4, 1956 p. 207.
  39. ^ How Can Man Be in God's Image?, The Watchtower April 1, 1994 p. 28
  40. ^ Strengthening Our Confidence in God's Righteousness, The Watchtower August 15, 1998 p. 20
  41. ^ "Death Is to Be Brought to Nothing", The Watchtower July 1, 1998, p. 19-24
  42. ^ Crushing The Serpent's Head, Revelation - Its Grand Climax At Hand 1988, p. 292.
  43. ^ "Is There LIFE After Death?", The Watchtower July 15, 2001. Web version available at http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/2001/7/15/article_01.htm accessed January 26, 2006.
  44. ^ Hell-Eternal Torture or Common Grave? The Watchtower, April 15, 1993, p. 6.
  45. ^ Comfort for Those Who Mourn, Awake! May 8, 2002, p. 19.
  46. ^ Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (December 4). Membership and Publishing Statistics. Authorized Site of the Office of Public Information of Jehovah's Witnesses. How Can Blood Save Your Life?. Accessed 4 December 2005.
  47. ^ The Watchtower, October 15 2000, p. 31
  48. ^ w85 4/15 Question From Readers p.31
  49. ^ Giving Reproof "Before All Onlookers" The Watchtower December 1, 1976.
  50. ^ 'Reproofs Are the Way of Life' The Watchtower November 15, 1977 p. 691.
  51. ^ Our Kingdom Ministry March 1983, p. 3.
  52. ^ Watchtower 79 11/15 Questions from Readers
  53. ^ "Thus, it would be left to members of the family to decide on the extent to which the disfellowshipped family member would be included when eating or engaging in other household activities. And yet, they would not want to give brothers with whom they associate the impression that everything is the same as it was before the disfellowshipping occurred." Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is Disfellowshipped, p 4. Scan available at http://www.jwfiles.com/scans/KM8-2002.htm accessed January 27, 2006.
  54. ^ "It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum." Disfellowshiping-How to View It, The Watchtower September 15, 1981, p. 26.
  55. ^ Discipline That Can Yield Peaceable Fruit, The Watchtower April 15, 1988, p. 26.
  56. ^ Letter from Letter to Circuit and District Overseers, From the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society 1980. (Apocalypse Delayed: The Story of Jehovah's Witnesses, M. J. Penton, p. 349) Scan available at page 1 page 2 accessed January 27, 2006.
  57. ^ The Bible's Viewpoint Why Disfellowshipping Is a Loving Arrangement, Awake! September 8, 1996.
  58. ^ "Since 1994, Jehovah's Witnesses in Europe alone have sent more than 190 tons of food, clothing, medicine, and other relief supplies to the Great Lakes region of Africa." - "Christianity in Action: Amid Turmoil", The Watchtower, Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania (January 15). Web version available at http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/1998/1/15/, accessed December 4, 2005.
  59. ^ Why Living a Godly Life Brings Happiness, Knowledge that Leads to Everlasting Life, 1995, p. 118.
  60. ^ Young People Ask... What's Wrong With Premarital Sex?, Awake! July 22, 2004, p. 12.
  61. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, November 15, 1960, p. 704.
  62. ^ Questions From Readers, The Watchtower, October 15, 1998, p. 30.
  63. ^ The Bible's Viewpoint What Does It Mean to Be the Head of the House?, Awake! 2004b, July 8, 2004, p. 26.
  64. ^ "Can You Make the World a Better Place?", The Watchtower October 15, 2001. Web version available at http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/2001/10/15/article_01.htm accessed January 26, 2006.
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