The Watchtower Society and Jehovah’s Witnesses have declared they have long outgrown their early identity (as it was throughout, and up to, nearly the first half of the 20th century) as the “Bible students” or the “International Bible Students Association”. Outgrowth changes they declare as having occurred to them have been formally proclaimed to the faithful from the platform at large gathering annual conventions held in the United States. Cedar Point, Ohio, comes to mind as one such convention city where announcements have been made in accord with light to them having gotten brighter and brighter, they have said. Their historical pattern of advanced light and growth to them from God is always seen to be dated by the year, alone, the advanced enlightenment occurred. The month of the year, the day, or the hour of the day, or to whom among them the light occurred, have never been open to discussion. Should anyone among their faithful rank and file become meticulous and voice their reasoning of the new light with questions to fellow brothers and sisters, such behaviour is not tolerated and quickly becomes known as “evil servant” meddling subject to judgment and disfellowshipping. The point I make here is that of their consistent pattern of truths and half truths integrated with often misleading and even false proclamations. Such a pattern is not unique to them, however. Clearly, other religious bodies carry on the same rigs, to lesser or greater degrees. Integration of truths and half truths reminds me of Jesus’ parable of the wheat and tares (weeds) mixed together at the root and growing up together awaiting the time of harvest. Many have been the victims among the innocent and innocuous who have asked too many questions without first having given thought to consequences. The act of putting the lid onto someone’s mind is, itself, nevertheless, a sign of evil fruitage. Understandably, Christians should expect, and be on the lookout for, hidden destructive forces. Satan keeps transforming himself into angels of light, and the whole world is under the control of the evil one. There is every reason to be suspect and to openly ask questions, but have on the complete suite of spiritual armour before doing so, to avoid being hurt. First, study the Scriptures for yourself. Think “seven times” about religious organizations, after that. Bearing up though, while under trial and being hurt, is also a learning experience and a sign of better things to come for you.
