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In this series, we investigate the history and beliefs of the Jehovah's Witnesses and compare them to biblical Christianity.
Key Points:
- The Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) teach that they are the one true church. This was a common belief for new religions to hold in 19th-century America.
- The JWs have their own Bible, the New World Translation, which they claim is the most accurate Bible translation in the world. This translation was not based on Greek and Hebrew manuscripts.
- They believe Jesus returned invisibly in 1914 and has been reigning ever since. Satan fell at this time.
- Jesus was Michael the Archangel who became the man Jesus Christ on earth.
- There are two classes of Christians: the anointed 144,000 JWs which they cite from the Book of Revelation and the great crowd, which is comprised of the rest of the JWs, will live on earth in paradise.
- Based on Leviticus 17:14, they refuse to take part in blood transfusions.
- Salvation. Only JWs are truly saved. Traditional, biblical Christians are part of false churches. This was also a common belief of new churches in 19th-century America.
- All governments are tools of Satan. They do not vote, sing the national anthem, or pledge allegiance.
- Jesus died on an upright stake, not a cross.
- Holidays. They believe holidays are pagan and are not to be celebrated. The New Testament (NT) teaches that celebrating holidays is acceptable, but that this should not be a standard of judgment against “weaker” believers.
- The JW movement distorts the Bible and introduces its own Bible because the New World Translation supports their teachings whereas non-JW Bibles contradict their teachings. JW teachings are not based on the Bible, but on the teachings of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society—a corporation headquartered in New York City that controls the JW movement.
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Do you know any Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) or have you ever spoken with them about religious topics? What happened?
- Which of these ten doctrines stands out most to you? Explain.
- Why do you think the JW movement has its own unique Bible translation?
- What do you think is an effective strategy for engaging with JWs lovingly as well as truthfully?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
This topic is adapted from the jwtruthministry YouTube channel.
