Why is it that they are somewhat looked down upon by more mainstream Christian religions? This is asked seriously, although I don't mind humorous answers.
2007-07-17 06:11:23 · 27 answers · asked by mom2nandn 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Well, I got a lot of good answers, except not about why they are looked down upon or viewed as a cult.
2007-07-17 09:02:33 · update #1
The term "cult" is intended to avoid a thinking analysis of the supposed "cultic" beliefs. In particular, trinitarians slander Jehovah's Witnesses with the "cult" label because Witnesses are not trinitarians.
Jehovah's Witnesses are Christians who understand the Scriptures to teach that God's Kingdom by Christ Jesus is a real government which will soon replace all earthly governments.
(Daniel 2:44) God of heaven will set up a kingdom... It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite
That Kingdom will rule over the vast majority of mankind, most of whom will have been raised from the dead after Armageddon.
(John 11:23,24) Jesus said to her: “Your brother will rise.” Martha said to him: “I know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.”
(Acts 24:15) There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.
Until that resurrection, there is no suffering in "hell", or the grave. Sometime after the resurrection, death and "hell" will themselves be destroyed.
(Ecclesiastes 9:5) For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all
(Ecclesiastes 9:10) there is no work nor devising nor knowledge nor wisdom in Sheol ["hell"]
(Revelation 20:14) And death and Hades ["hell"] were hurled into the lake of fire
While a limitted number of humans will be resurrected to heaven to share in ruling over mankind, the vast majority (literally more than 99.9%) of Jehovah's Witnesses expect an EARTHLY hope, the same hope given to Adam and Eve.
(Genesis 1:28) God blessed them and God said to them: “Be fruitful and become many and fill THE EARTH and subdue it [caps added]
(Genesis 2:17) You must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die [so never eating from that tree means never dying]
Interestingly, the Scriptures are full of references to this earthly hope.
(Psalms 37:11) 'the meek will possess the earth'
(Proverbs 2:21) 'upright will reside in the earth'
(Isaiah 45:18) 'God formed the earth to be inhabited'
(Matthew 5:5) 'the mild will inherit the earth'
(Revelation 21:3) The tent of God is with mankind
Learn more:
http://watchtower.org/e/lmn/index.htm?article=article_10.htm
http://watchtower.org/e/rq/index.htm?article=article_06.htm
http://jw-media.org/beliefs/trueworship.htm
http://watchtower.org/e/jt/
http://watchtower.org/e/dg/index.htm?article=article_11.htm
http://watchtower.org/e/pr/index.htm?article=article_07.htm
2007-07-18 10:15:24 · answer #1 · answered by achtung_heiss 7 · 2⤊ 2⤋
Jehovah ´s witness preach that Jesus after Armageddon and destruction of evildoers, Satan and his demons will be "Jailed" for 1000 years in the mean time Jesus will rule the earth with a group redeemed from earth (Revelation 5:10, 14:1-5) will resurrect people (Acts 24:15 and John 5:28-29) will provide food and eliminate famines (Psalm 72:16) will restore the health of humans (Isaiah 35:5-6, 33:24) will eliminate the death and the cause of the death and suffering (Revelation 21:4) in resumen will transform the earth in a great place to live a "new earth" the original purpose of God with Adam and Eve before they sinned (Genesis 1:28) .
After 1000 years , Satan will be release and mankind will have a second test and after that Satan will be cast into the lake of fire (destroyed) and Jesus give the kingdom to his father (Jehovah) (1 Corithians 15:28)
We give present but not in holidays that has pagans roots
We don´t Scare the household by telling them they are going to hell, cause we learnt in the bible that is a false misconception, that insult God telling that he is a sadic that torture people.
We don´t ask for tithing (10%) of your salary cause we learnt in the bible we are not under the old covenant and all of our pastors or elders are working for free.
Jesus is the son of the most high (Luke 1:32) and the name of the most high is Jehovah (Psalms 83:18)
Millions of meek people will inherit the earth as Jesus said in Matthew 5:5 and Revelation 7:5 but only 144k are taken from earth to go to heaven (Revelation 14:1-5)
By the way, we can prove everything we believe with any bible that has the name of God almighty, no matter what version.
2007-07-17 13:15:19 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 7⤊ 0⤋
Jehovah's Witnesses' basic views can be looked up easily enough with all the links that you've received here in the responses. As for the "looking down upon" them, their beliefs do not lie within mainstream Christianity and what I consider to be a saving faith. Since they are outside of that faith, using the label "Christian" has connotations of identification with mainstream Christianity when it does not. If they wish to enlarge the scope of Christianity in order to include themselves in it, I will not allow them that privilege. They are not Christians.
They do not define themselves as a cult, but according to the qualifications provided in the book, "Kingdom of the Cults" by Walter Martin, they are a definitive description of the term. Yes, it has negative connotations. And what he says about them is true, or at least I would like to hear some better refutations than provided here.
2007-07-19 21:46:14 · answer #3 · answered by ccrider 7 · 0⤊ 3⤋
its funny to read the ignorance in these answers. im not a baptised JW but most of my family is. First off, Jehovahs Witnesses are Christians. Christians believe in Christ. Also, they do have very strong views of things but nothing the tell you cant be found in the bible as they base everything they teach on it. As a religion I think it has a really good base but as in life and being born into sin individuals can change the preception. I think if u want to learn to make ur own basis u can always request a bible study. U will learn alot and u can then make ur own choices. Just a note though that once u learn the truth(whatever it may be) u are accountable from that point on. wish u the best on finding a religion that suits u. AND ITS THE SAME BIBLE GENIUSES. PEOPLE DO UR HOMEWORK AND STOP SPEAKING ON WHAT U DONT KNOW.
2007-07-17 13:24:46 · answer #4 · answered by TFB 2 · 8⤊ 3⤋
What they believe is to much to answer here but I can tell you you it is extremely difficult to be so dedicated as Jehovah's witnesses are in this day and age, I have nothing but respect for them and there kind,why they are frowned upon ,only the people doing it can tell you that.
Ask a Jehovah's Witness, I'm' reading the responses and most are not accurate at all.
2007-07-17 13:22:00 · answer #5 · answered by Wize Guy 4 · 8⤊ 1⤋
It's basic Christianity, with a few twists:
1) They don not believe in heaven or hell. Rather they believe in a carnal Resurrection for the faithful and death to body and soul of sinners.
2) They were the first Christians to claim Jesus had siblings, that Mary did not stay a virgin.
3) They are among the Few Christian sects to physically preach the word.
4) They were the first Christan sect of the 20th century to use God's name openly in their doctrines.
There are a significant number of other minor differences. But essentially the basics are the same: Jesus came, Jesus died, and Jesus is the way.
2007-07-17 13:23:47 · answer #6 · answered by Dragon LXXXVIII 2 · 4⤊ 2⤋
1) Whatever the cost, Jehovah's Witnesses adhere closely to the Bible.They have not invented a new religion. They merely follow what is written in the Torah, the Psalms, and the Gospel, which is the foundation of true religion. Below are some of their teachings. Read and see whether these have the ring of truth or not.
No Trinity--The Bible does not teach the Trinity doctrine. Rather, it says that there is only one true God.
Deut. 6:4; "Jehovah our God is one Jehovah."
He is the creator--eternal, Almighty, without equal.
Jesus is not Almighty God. Jesus lived on earth as a perfect man and died for imperfect mankind. God kindly accepted the life of Jesus as a ransom, and thus through him is the salvation of the faithful. This is God's will.--Luke 22:42; Romans 5:12.
No Immortal Soul--What happens to ppl when they die? God's word says: "The living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all"-- Ecc. 9:5. Man does not have an immortal soul. Ppl who think they are talking to the dead are really communicating with demons.
Resurrection--Man's real hope is the resurrection, the coming forth of the dead to an earth restored to Paradise conditions. Those who have served God will be blessed for their faithfulness. Those who have died without finding God will have that opportunity then. Thus, "there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous."----
Acts 24:15. Only those whom God judges as unworthy will not receive a resurrection.
No Hellfire--A loving God would not create a place where the dead suffer eternally. God Himself described the burning & torturing of humans as "a thing that I had not commanded and that had not come up into my heart."--Jer. 7:31
No Clergy Class--Everyone dedicated to God is equal in His eyes. True worshippers are all brothers and sisters. God did not appoint an elevated clergy class. Jesus said: "Everyone that exalts himself will be humilated, but he that humbles himself will be exalted."--Luke 18:14. God will judge adversely those who through religion elevate themselves over others.--Matt.23:4-12.
No Idolatry--"God is a Spirit, and those worshiping him must worship with spirit and truth."--John 4:24. True worshipers do not use idols.
No indiviual is born a Witness of Jehovah. Every single Witness makes a personal decision. After making an honest search of God's word, the searcher recognizes truth, and on this basis he dedicates himself to the true God, whose name is Jehovah. Ps.83:18
These are just some of the things we hold to.
If you'd like to learn more, contact your local Kingdom Hall.
Or go to www.watchtower.org
2)The world of mankind, does not like the life we live, because in doing so; they are pronounced incorrect, making the word of God invalid. Holding to the traditions of men. Matt. 15:8
2007-07-17 15:39:29 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 2⤋
I studied with them to learn about what they believe.
1. They don't believe in celebrating birthdays because in the Bible it says to remember Jesus' death but it doesn't say anything about remembering His birth.
I sorta feel the same way. Why should we wait until someones birthday to let them know how we care. That's why I give presents when I buy them, what if something happened to them and they died without getting the card or present?
2.They believe that the archangel Michael is Jesus' identity in heaven.
It is a nice thought because Michael fought with satan before he was thrown down to the earth, but Jesus' name is synonymous with peace.
That is all I remember about the Jehovah's Witness' beliefs.
2007-07-17 13:34:34 · answer #8 · answered by julie 5 · 5⤊ 0⤋
We believe that God's name is Jehovah, and that his son's name is Jesus Christ. We also believe that the Devil is called Satan, but we don't know Satan's real name. We don't celebrate any holiday, or birthday parties, or anything like that. We refuse blood transfusions because blood is very valuable and it's dangerous to take blood transfusions. We follow the Bible's instructions, and we pray to Jehovah day and night. We also attend our meetings at the Kingdom Hall. My meetings are on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. On Sunday, we listen to a Public Talk, which is followed by the study of the Watchtower. On Monday, I go to an Elder's house for the Book study, and right now, we are using the book Revalation Climax. On Thursday, there is a Theocratic Ministry School and Service Meeting. The Theocratic Ministry School consists of different talks, like Bible Highlights, Instruction Talk, Bible Reading, and also a part for sisters, where they talk to another person about the Bible. The Service Meeting is when they make all of the announcements needed, and when we read articles from Our Kingdom Ministry. On Saturday, we go door-to-door, which is also done throughout the week, but I usually go out on Saturday. When you go to field service 60 hours a month, you become an Auxiliary Pioneer. You always keep track of your hours for when they collect it at the end of the month to see how you're doing. If you would like to see how these meetings are held, visit your local Kingdom Hall, and find a qualified brother or sister to study with you. They will explain everything to you step-by-step, and once you're ready, you will get baptized if you choose to, but no one forces you to do anything. You do not have to pay for anything, but if you would like to, you can donate money to the worldwide work, but it is not necessary for you to do it, like it is in churches. We do not have an ATM machine, we do not send a bucket around begging for money, or anything else like that. So feel free to stop by at your local Kingdom Hall, and see how we run our meetings. In the mean time, you can check out our website to read some articles, or to learn more about Jehovah's Witnesses.
2007-07-17 14:28:49 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 5⤊ 2⤋
WHAT JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES BELIEVE Belief Scriptural Reason
Bible is God's Word and is truth 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; 2 Pet. 1:20, 21; John 17:17
Bible is more reliable than tradition Matt. 15:3; Col. 2:8
God's name is Jehovah Ps. 83:18; Isa. 26:4; 42:8, AS; Ex. 6:3
Christ is God's Son and is inferior to Him Matt. 3:17; John 8:42; 14:28; 20:17; 1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28
Christ was first of God's creations Col. 1:15; Rev. 3:14
Christ died on a stake, not a cross Gal. 3:13; Acts 5:30
Christ's human life was paid as a ransom for obedient humans Matt. 20:28; 1 Tim. 2:5, 6; 1 Pet. 2:24
Christ's one sacrifice was sufficient Rom. 6:10; Heb. 9:25-28
Christ was raised from the dead as an immortal spirit person 1 Pet. 3:18; Rom. 6:9; Rev. 1:17, 18
Christ's presence is in spirit John 14:19; Matt. 24:3; 2 Cor. 5:16; Ps. 110:1, 2
We are now in the 'time of the end' Matt. 24:3-14; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; Luke 17:26-30
Kingdom under Christ will rule earth in righteousness and peace Isa. 9:6, 7; 11:1-5; Dan. 7:13, 14; Matt. 6:10
Kingdom will bring ideal living conditions to earth Ps. 72:1-4; Rev. 7:9, 10, 13-17; 21:3, 4
Earth will never be destroyed or depopulated Eccl. 1:4; Isa. 45:18; Ps. 78:69
God will eliminate present system of things in the battle at Har-Magedon Rev. 16:14, 16; Zeph. 3:8; Dan. 2:44; Isa. 34:2; 55:10, 11
Wicked will be eternally destroyed Matt. 25:41-46; 2 Thess. 1:6-9
People God approves will receive everlasting life John 3:16; 10:27, 28; 17:3; Mark 10:29, 30
There is only one road to life Matt. 7:13, 14; Eph. 4:4, 5
Human death is due to Adam's sin Rom. 5:12; 6:23
The human soul ceases to exist at death Ezek. 18:4; Eccl. 9:10; Ps. 6:5; 146:4; John 11:11-14
Hell is mankind's common grave Job 14:13, Dy; Rev. 20:13, 14, AV (margin)
Hope for dead is resurrection 1 Cor. 15:20-22; John 5:28, 29; 11:25, 26
Adamic death will cease 1 Cor. 15:26, 54; Rev. 21:4; Isa. 25:8
Only a little flock of 144,000 go to heaven and rule with Christ Luke 12:32; Rev. 14:1, 3; 1 Cor. 15:40-53; Rev. 5:9, 10
The 144,000 are born again as spiritual sons of God 1 Pet. 1:23; John 3:3; Rev. 7:3, 4
New covenant is made with spiritual Israel Jer. 31:31; Heb. 8:10-13
Christ's congregation is built upon himself Eph. 2:20; Isa. 28:16; Matt. 21:42
Prayers are to be directed only to Jehovah through Christ John 14:6, 13, 14; 1 Tim. 2:5
Images should not be used in worship Ex. 20:4, 5; Lev. 26:1; 1 Cor. 10:14; Ps. 115:4-8
Spiritism must be shunned Deut. 18:10-12; Gal. 5:19-21; Lev. 19:31
Satan is invisible ruler of world 1 John 5:19; 2 Cor. 4:4; John 12:31
A Christian ought to have no part in interfaith movements 2 Cor. 6:14-17; 11:13-15; Gal. 5:9; Deut. 7:1-5
A Christian should keep separate from world Jas. 4:4; 1 John 2:15; John 15:19; 17:16
Obey human laws that do not conflict with God's laws Matt. 22:20, 21; 1 Pet. 2:12; 4:15
Taking blood into body through mouth or veins violates God's laws Gen. 9:3, 4; Lev. 17:14; Acts 15:28, 29
Bible's laws on morals must be obeyed 1 Cor. 6:9, 10; Heb. 13:4; 1 Tim. 3:2; Prov. 5:1-23
Sabbath observance was given only to Israel and ended with Mosaic Law Deut. 5:15; Ex. 31:13; Rom. 10:4; Gal. 4:9, 10; Col. 2:16, 17
A clergy class and special titles are improper Matt. 23:8-12; 20:25-27; Job 32:21, 22
Man did not evolve but was created Isa. 45:12; Gen. 1:27; Matt. 19:4
Christ set example that must be followed in serving God 1 Pet. 2:21; Heb. 10:7; John 4:34; 6:38
Baptism by complete immersion symbolizes dedication Mark 1:9, 10; John 3:23; Acts 19:4, 5
Christians gladly give public testimony to Scriptural truth Rom. 10:10; Heb. 13:15; Isa. 43:10-12
2007-07-17 13:37:30 · answer #10 · answered by Jason W 4 · 8⤊ 3⤋