What do JWs know?
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- Sage
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What do JWs know?
Post #1I just had two JWs come to my house. They said that they do not believe in the Trinity, yet they were quoting from a bible whose canon was produced by Athanasius in 367 A.D., the same guy who was the main proponent of the Trinity doctrine at Constantine's Council of Nicaea. They apparently did not know that Athanasius produced the canon they used, and that he proposed doctrine which is opposite of what they believe. Is this a one off, or is lack of historical context part of the JWs normal routine? They gave their quote of the day, Rev 21:4, without context, and didn't know that Rev 22:15 applied to the same Jerusalem, and that those "who practice lying" would not "enter". As soon as I told them, they turned and walked quickly away. The second time in around so many weeks, that JWs came, and quickly walked away when confronted with their inconsistencies.
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- Guru
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #61Many would claim, they have the spirit of God, but how to prove you have it? Just because you said it, then it is true?slowrider wrote: ↑Tue Dec 10, 2024 12:32 amWhy do you need to interpret the bible? Why do you even need the bible?Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Dec 07, 2024 3:04 pmWhen we interpret Bible text by human contribution without consulting Hebrew or Greek lexicons we might fell to eisegesis.onewithhim wrote: ↑Sat Dec 07, 2024 2:55 pmNo, no one knows Greek so we have to rely on comparing translations, like most people in the world. We have Greek members in Greece that could help, but I don't know how to contact them. I seriously think that you don't really know what you are posting when you post the Greek text of anything. If you did, you would see that there are two "gods" mentioned in John 1:1. One is THE god and one is just "god." The Greek article goes before the first "god," and there is no article before the last "god." You can see it when you look at the Greek text. A person doesn't need to know Greek to see that.Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Dec 07, 2024 2:36 pmAre there any JW that can assist you with that Greek text?onewithhim wrote: ↑Sat Dec 07, 2024 2:22 pmI don't know how to print here with Greek words. I'm technologically challenged, you might say. But if you actually look at The Emphatic Diaglott you can clearly see that the Greek is translated as "a god was the word." If you knew Greek you would see also that the verse has two gods, THE god and "god." Jesus is not THE god. There is no article before "god" in his case.Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Dec 07, 2024 12:54 pmAre you kind enough to show me the original Greek text that says, and "a" God was the word?onewithhim wrote: ↑Tue Dec 03, 2024 11:26 amNo, the original Greek said: "and a god was the word." The NWT is not the only Bible version that says that. Look at The Emphatic Diaglott by Benjamin Wilson.Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Nov 30, 2024 1:49 pmDo it mean that you are not open to Bible text to Bible text interpretation rather than the Governing Body interpretation?onewithhim wrote: ↑Thu Nov 28, 2024 2:32 pmIt has come to be seen that my beliefs harmonize with the Watchtower. I don't disagree with anything they say, other than the new allowance that women can wear pants to meetings and out in the ministry.
Like John 1:1, original Greek said, "God is the word" than the NWT interpretation/translation?
I think there are many of you here.
Eisegesis defined as the act of interpreting a text by introducing one's own ideas, biases, or agendas, rather than the text's meaning.
Is it because you have not the Spirit of God?
We consider the Bible as the Word of God, interpreting the Bible text by another Bible text could guide us not to fall to eisegesis,
a bias interpretation of man.
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- Guru
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #62If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
- onewithhim
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #63"Bound hand and foot by 141 rules"?? That is a bold lie. Most of those "rules" are made up by placebofactor. There are no "burdening laws," and JWs are enthusiastically encouraged to "think for themselves." We do not worship the organization, just as Catholics don't worship the Pope. We have no "weight upon our shoulders." Many of the things you listed are for our protection, such as no sex before marriage. That is in line with Bible teaching. We are not watched closely by the Governing Body or the elders. They trust us to think for ourselves, in line with Bible principles.placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #64Are you denying that your members don't vote, won't take part in the government, won't join the military or fight for your country? Are you denying you don't salute the flag, say the Pledge of Allegiance, use Bibles other than the N.W.T., won't enter other Christian churches, or read any material except your own? You say Catholics are wrong because they pray to Mary, light candles, and call the priests Father, and so do I. But the Witnesses do the same thing, they have made their own rules that govern their members. You deny the existence of the Jews as the 144,000, therefore claim God is done with the Jews. What I have published above is correct. If you are a member of the Witnesses, I have no idea why you would deny or be ashamed of these rules. I'm not saying an organization can't have governing rules, I only posted the rules the Witnesses have to follow. Last word: most all of the 141 regulations cannot be supported by the Scripture.onewithhim wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 1:40 pm"Bound hand and foot by 141 rules"?? That is a bold lie. Most of those "rules" are made up by placebofactor. There are no "burdening laws," and JWs are enthusiastically encouraged to "think for themselves." We do not worship the organization, just as Catholics don't worship the Pope. We have no "weight upon our shoulders." Many of the things you listed are for our protection, such as no sex before marriage. That is in line with Bible teaching. We are not watched closely by the Governing Body or the elders. They trust us to think for ourselves, in line with Bible principles.placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #65Rule #29-30: For most of the world's population, the refusal to accept blood transfusions even in the face of certain death is insane. Jehovah's Witnesses parents have battled in court to block their children's desperately needed medical treatment, and some have even taken their child from a hospital to avoid a court-ordered transfusion. Why would any parent put their child in such danger, that's nuts! They base this rule on,placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
Acts 15:20, "You write unto them (the Gentiles), that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled and from blood." Verse 29, "That you abstain from food offered to idols and from blood, and from things strangled."
The Witnesses have twisted the meaning of these verses. When this was written, certain Gentiles in their worship of their gods would sacrifice their victim, either animal or human, and drink their blood as it is offered up to their god or gods. It has nothing to do with blood transfusions given by doctors to save lives. Half the fighting men in uniform over the past 100 years or those in serious automobile accidents, or any other life-threatening injury would not be with us today if it weren't for blood transfusions. Drinking the blood of a sacrifice or an enemy was a worldwide practice. The South American Incas and island tribes in Borneo, Africa, and even in Europe centuries ago held to this practice. I believe it may still be going on today. That's my take, your thoughts.
This one rule alone would prevent me from even considering joining any organization that would put a life in danger to satisfy any personal agendas.
- onewithhim
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #66Of course we don't involve ourselves with worldly governments and their politics and military forces. The Bible says that we are to be no part of the world. (John 17:14) We don't vote but also we don't interfere with anyone who wants to vote. We are neutral. Christ is our King and our vote was cast for him. Why should we salute the flag? Isn't that similar to people saluting Hitler? Saluting him meant that their salvation came through him. Our salvation does not come through the nation that the flag represents, but only God's Kingdom is our salvation. (Matthew 24:14) (Say, why would you go to war against another country when there are people of your own faith living in that country?) (John 13:35)placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 4:19 pmAre you denying that your members don't vote, won't take part in the government, won't join the military or fight for your country? Are you denying you don't salute the flag, say the Pledge of Allegiance, use Bibles other than the N.W.T., won't enter other Christian churches, or read any material except your own? You say Catholics are wrong because they pray to Mary, light candles, and call the priests Father, and so do I. But the Witnesses do the same thing, they have made their own rules that govern their members. You deny the existence of the Jews as the 144,000, therefore claim God is done with the Jews. What I have published above is correct. If you are a member of the Witnesses, I have no idea why you would deny or be ashamed of these rules. I'm not saying an organization can't have governing rules, I only posted the rules the Witnesses have to follow. Last word: most all of the 141 regulations cannot be supported by the Scripture.onewithhim wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 1:40 pm"Bound hand and foot by 141 rules"?? That is a bold lie. Most of those "rules" are made up by placebofactor. There are no "burdening laws," and JWs are enthusiastically encouraged to "think for themselves." We do not worship the organization, just as Catholics don't worship the Pope. We have no "weight upon our shoulders." Many of the things you listed are for our protection, such as no sex before marriage. That is in line with Bible teaching. We are not watched closely by the Governing Body or the elders. They trust us to think for ourselves, in line with Bible principles.placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
We use any Bible you want to use. I have two dozen versions and I use them all. I find that versions are interesting when you look up the same verse in every version.
JWs have not made "their own rules." They go by what the Bible tells us to do, and it's obvious, when someone wants to really look up the verses. All of the "rules" that we follow can be supported by Scripture, though most of the 140-something rules are from your imagination, placebo.
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #67The witnesses have not twisted anything. The verses that say to abstain from blood are clear and straightforward. And you apparently are not caught up on the medical community's stance on blood transfusions. There are MANY doctors and hospitals that have bloodless medicine techniques and use them consistently with good results. Having a substitute for blood is not only less expensive but works better than if blood was administered. Recovery time is much reduced and there are no side effects with those substitutes. Doctors have said: "The only good transfusion is NO TRANSFUSION." Look up bloodless medicine on line and you'll get some eye-opening information. I believe that if someone dies after not taking a blood transfusion they would have died anyway, even with the blood. Bloodless medicine is much better than taking someone else's blood. I'll bet that if you were to research how many people die when they take blood, you'd find that there are more of those than those who do not take blood. Blood is big business. The blood banks are out to get our money, and it is true, blood is expensive. You have fallen for a big lie.placebofactor wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 10:20 amRule #29-30: For most of the world's population, the refusal to accept blood transfusions even in the face of certain death is insane. Jehovah's Witnesses parents have battled in court to block their children's desperately needed medical treatment, and some have even taken their child from a hospital to avoid a court-ordered transfusion. Why would any parent put their child in such danger, that's nuts! They base this rule on,placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
Acts 15:20, "You write unto them (the Gentiles), that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled and from blood." Verse 29, "That you abstain from food offered to idols and from blood, and from things strangled."
The Witnesses have twisted the meaning of these verses. When this was written, certain Gentiles in their worship of their gods would sacrifice their victim, either animal or human, and drink their blood as it is offered up to their god or gods. It has nothing to do with blood transfusions given by doctors to save lives. Half the fighting men in uniform over the past 100 years or those in serious automobile accidents, or any other life-threatening injury would not be with us today if it weren't for blood transfusions. Drinking the blood of a sacrifice or an enemy was a worldwide practice. The South American Incas and island tribes in Borneo, Africa, and even in Europe centuries ago held to this practice. I believe it may still be going on today. That's my take, your thoughts.
This one rule alone would prevent me from even considering joining any organization that would put a life in danger to satisfy any personal agendas.
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #68I believe there are no better substitute than blood transfusion. See below;onewithhim wrote: ↑Wed Dec 18, 2024 4:57 pmThe witnesses have not twisted anything. The verses that say to abstain from blood are clear and straightforward. And you apparently are not caught up on the medical community's stance on blood transfusions. There are MANY doctors and hospitals that have bloodless medicine techniques and use them consistently with good results. Having a substitute for blood is not only less expensive but works better than if blood was administered. Recovery time is much reduced and there are no side effects with those substitutes. Doctors have said: "The only good transfusion is NO TRANSFUSION." Look up bloodless medicine on line and you'll get some eye-opening information. I believe that if someone dies after not taking a blood transfusion they would have died anyway, even with the blood. Bloodless medicine is much better than taking someone else's blood. I'll bet that if you were to research how many people die when they take blood, you'd find that there are more of those than those who do not take blood. Blood is big business. The blood banks are out to get our money, and it is true, blood is expensive. You have fallen for a big lie.placebofactor wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 10:20 amRule #29-30: For most of the world's population, the refusal to accept blood transfusions even in the face of certain death is insane. Jehovah's Witnesses parents have battled in court to block their children's desperately needed medical treatment, and some have even taken their child from a hospital to avoid a court-ordered transfusion. Why would any parent put their child in such danger, that's nuts! They base this rule on,placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
Acts 15:20, "You write unto them (the Gentiles), that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled and from blood." Verse 29, "That you abstain from food offered to idols and from blood, and from things strangled."
The Witnesses have twisted the meaning of these verses. When this was written, certain Gentiles in their worship of their gods would sacrifice their victim, either animal or human, and drink their blood as it is offered up to their god or gods. It has nothing to do with blood transfusions given by doctors to save lives. Half the fighting men in uniform over the past 100 years or those in serious automobile accidents, or any other life-threatening injury would not be with us today if it weren't for blood transfusions. Drinking the blood of a sacrifice or an enemy was a worldwide practice. The South American Incas and island tribes in Borneo, Africa, and even in Europe centuries ago held to this practice. I believe it may still be going on today. That's my take, your thoughts.
This one rule alone would prevent me from even considering joining any organization that would put a life in danger to satisfy any personal agendas.
Blood substitutes
These include volume expanders, like saline, and oxygen therapeutics, like hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs). HBOCs are compatible with all blood types and don't require refrigeration, but they can cause severe immune reactions. Hemopure is a bovine hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution that can be used as a bridge while the body regenerates blood. However, it can be risky and may cause complications like heart attack and stroke.
https://www.google.com/search?q=is+ther ... s-wiz-serp
- onewithhim
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #69There are other substitutes to take. Also, what are the risks of having a blood transfusion? There are many. Check that out. And, too, check out "bloodless medicine" or "bloodless surgery" and you can see what many doctors are saying.Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Dec 21, 2024 2:10 pmI believe there are no better substitute than blood transfusion. See below;onewithhim wrote: ↑Wed Dec 18, 2024 4:57 pmThe witnesses have not twisted anything. The verses that say to abstain from blood are clear and straightforward. And you apparently are not caught up on the medical community's stance on blood transfusions. There are MANY doctors and hospitals that have bloodless medicine techniques and use them consistently with good results. Having a substitute for blood is not only less expensive but works better than if blood was administered. Recovery time is much reduced and there are no side effects with those substitutes. Doctors have said: "The only good transfusion is NO TRANSFUSION." Look up bloodless medicine on line and you'll get some eye-opening information. I believe that if someone dies after not taking a blood transfusion they would have died anyway, even with the blood. Bloodless medicine is much better than taking someone else's blood. I'll bet that if you were to research how many people die when they take blood, you'd find that there are more of those than those who do not take blood. Blood is big business. The blood banks are out to get our money, and it is true, blood is expensive. You have fallen for a big lie.placebofactor wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 10:20 amRule #29-30: For most of the world's population, the refusal to accept blood transfusions even in the face of certain death is insane. Jehovah's Witnesses parents have battled in court to block their children's desperately needed medical treatment, and some have even taken their child from a hospital to avoid a court-ordered transfusion. Why would any parent put their child in such danger, that's nuts! They base this rule on,placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
Acts 15:20, "You write unto them (the Gentiles), that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled and from blood." Verse 29, "That you abstain from food offered to idols and from blood, and from things strangled."
The Witnesses have twisted the meaning of these verses. When this was written, certain Gentiles in their worship of their gods would sacrifice their victim, either animal or human, and drink their blood as it is offered up to their god or gods. It has nothing to do with blood transfusions given by doctors to save lives. Half the fighting men in uniform over the past 100 years or those in serious automobile accidents, or any other life-threatening injury would not be with us today if it weren't for blood transfusions. Drinking the blood of a sacrifice or an enemy was a worldwide practice. The South American Incas and island tribes in Borneo, Africa, and even in Europe centuries ago held to this practice. I believe it may still be going on today. That's my take, your thoughts.
This one rule alone would prevent me from even considering joining any organization that would put a life in danger to satisfy any personal agendas.
Blood substitutes
These include volume expanders, like saline, and oxygen therapeutics, like hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs). HBOCs are compatible with all blood types and don't require refrigeration, but they can cause severe immune reactions. Hemopure is a bovine hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution that can be used as a bridge while the body regenerates blood. However, it can be risky and may cause complications like heart attack and stroke.
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Re: What do JWs know?
Post #70Have you noticed that the Witnesses never talk about the number of lives that were saved by blood transfusions, especially in war-zone situations and in automobile accidents?onewithhim wrote: ↑Wed Dec 25, 2024 6:22 pmThere are other substitutes to take. Also, what are the risks of having a blood transfusion? There are many. Check that out. And, too, check out "bloodless medicine" or "bloodless surgery" and you can see what many doctors are saying.Capbook wrote: ↑Sat Dec 21, 2024 2:10 pmI believe there are no better substitute than blood transfusion. See below;onewithhim wrote: ↑Wed Dec 18, 2024 4:57 pmThe witnesses have not twisted anything. The verses that say to abstain from blood are clear and straightforward. And you apparently are not caught up on the medical community's stance on blood transfusions. There are MANY doctors and hospitals that have bloodless medicine techniques and use them consistently with good results. Having a substitute for blood is not only less expensive but works better than if blood was administered. Recovery time is much reduced and there are no side effects with those substitutes. Doctors have said: "The only good transfusion is NO TRANSFUSION." Look up bloodless medicine on line and you'll get some eye-opening information. I believe that if someone dies after not taking a blood transfusion they would have died anyway, even with the blood. Bloodless medicine is much better than taking someone else's blood. I'll bet that if you were to research how many people die when they take blood, you'd find that there are more of those than those who do not take blood. Blood is big business. The blood banks are out to get our money, and it is true, blood is expensive. You have fallen for a big lie.placebofactor wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 10:20 amRule #29-30: For most of the world's population, the refusal to accept blood transfusions even in the face of certain death is insane. Jehovah's Witnesses parents have battled in court to block their children's desperately needed medical treatment, and some have even taken their child from a hospital to avoid a court-ordered transfusion. Why would any parent put their child in such danger, that's nuts! They base this rule on,placebofactor wrote: ↑Mon Dec 16, 2024 9:49 am If you want to know who the Jehovah's Witnesses worship, it's not Jehovah, it's their organization, the Watchtower Bible, and Tract Society. Look at the weight of the rules put on their shoulders. They have put themselves back under burdening laws and are not allowed to think for themselves. They threaten their members with ex-communication or shunning. They are bound hand and foot by the following 141 rules.
They claim, right or wrong, the rules must be followed, so if they want to avoid excommunication (disfellowshipping), they must bow to the organization's demands. No independent thinking is allowed, only what they refer to as, like-mindedness.
Following are the can-do and can-not-do's of a Jehovah's Witness organization, a list having been compiled by former members. Now examine them and then ask yourself, is this what the Lord Jesus Christ had planned for his future Bride? I would say, 90% of the list cannot be found in the scriptures, making it the doctrines of men. After you examine them, then we can have a conversation about what is and what is not in the Scriptures.
1. Belong to another organization or club to socialize with nonbelievers. See Religion First
2. Have best friends and activity buddies who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. See Friendship with Nonbelievers. Notice they point to their material to prove their point.
3. Associate with people outside their organization when it is not necessary. See Friendship with a Jehovah's
Witness
4. Attend social functions sponsored by their employer unless attendance is required
5. Associate with coworkers after business hours in a social setting
6. Disagree with their organization's rules and code of conduct. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
7. Disagree with their organization's doctrines. See Can Jehovah's Witnesses Disagree?
8. Contribute to the Presidential Campaign Fund on their tax return
9. Join the armed forces and defend their country
10. Say the Pledge of Allegiance
11. Salute the flag
12. Vote
13. Run for leadership in their organization. (JW's are 'appointed' and invited to be leaders.)
14. Run for leadership in any organization
15. Take a stand for any political issue inside their organization
16. Take a stand on any political or 'worldly' issue outside of their organization
17. Campaign for a political candidate
18. Hold political office
19. Discuss politics
20. Be a union steward or shop steward
21. Actively be involved in a union strike
22. Use a gun for protection against humans
23. Become a police officer if a gun is required
24. Wear military uniforms or clothing associated with war
25. Take yoga classes and practice the discipline of yoga. See Is Yoga For Christians?
26. Smoke tobacco and cigars
27. Work full time selling tobacco and cigars
28. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous
29. Donate blood
30. Have blood transfusions
31. Read books, magazines, publications, and literature from other religions.
32. Buy anything from a church store
33. Buy something at a church garage sale
34. Donate items to a church-run store
35. Shop at the Salvation Army
36. Work for the Salvation Army
37. Work for another church
38. Play competitive sports on a school team
39. Play competitive sports professionally
40. Run for class president
41. Become a cheerleader
42. Go to the school prom or school dance.
43. Attend class reunions
44. Be hypnotized
45. Accept Jesus as their mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5. See Mediator
46. Join the Boy Scouts
47. Join the Girl Guides
48. Join the YMCA
49. Serve on jury duty
50. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith
51. Attend other Christian churches
52. Attend nondenominational churches
53. Attend non-Christian churches
54. Get married in another church
55. Dating nonbelievers is discouraged
56. Casual dating is discouraged
57. Dating someone without the intent of getting married
58. Having sex before marriage
59. Breaking an engagement, separation, and 'unscriptural' divorce may result in disciplinary action
60. Marriage to nonbelievers is not recommended
61. Be gay or lesbian. Homosexuality is not acceptable.
62. Throw rice at a wedding
63. Get divorced unless the reason is adultery
64. Can't remarry unless their ex commits fornication first
65. Toast drinks
66. Buy a raffle ticket
67. Play bingo
68. Gamble
69. Sing any holiday songs
70. Sing the National Anthem.
71. Celebrate Christmas - Why?
72. Celebrate New Years Eve - Why?
73. Celebrate Easter - Why?
74. Celebrate Mother's Day - Why?
75. Celebrate Father's Day
76. Celebrate birthdays - Why?
77. Celebrate Thanksgiving
78. Celebrate Flag Day
79. Celebrate Veteran's Day
80. Celebrate Independence Day. Why?
81. Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day
82. Celebrate Valentine's Day
83. Celebrate Halloween - Why?
84. Celebrate Hanukkah
85. Accept holiday gifts - Why?
86. Celebrate any holiday except the death of Jesus - Why?
87. Partake in the bread and wine that represents Christ unless they are part of the 144,000
88. Make holiday artwork for school
89. Engage in holiday parties at school
90. Take on a leadership role in school
91. Porneia
92. Do suggestive and immodest dancing in a public place
93. Attend a class, workshop, or seminar, sponsored by another church
94. Attend social events or fundraisers sponsored by another church
95. Use of bad language (curse words) is discouraged
96. Wear blue jeans, shorts, and overly casual clothing at the Kingdom Hall. See Dress Code
97. Wear pants at a Kingdom Hall if you're a woman
98. Wear revealing clothes or skirts that are too short (looked down upon)
99. Wear long hair or facial hair if you're a man (depends on the local customs of the country you live in)
100. Body piercings are discouraged
101. Tattoos are discouraged
102. State or imply that the Watchtower is not run by Jehovah God.
103. Have discussions and express Bible based viewpoints that contradict the organization's beliefs
104. Say anything negative about their organization. JW's must 'speak in agreement' and be 'like-minded'.
105. Consider other religious beliefs as valid and truthful.
106. Acknowledge any prayer spoken by a nonbeliever as valid
107. Take another Jehovah's Witness to court (with exceptions)
108. Wear or own a cross
109. Own any religious picture
110. Own any religious statue
111. Engage in idolatry
112. Believe in miracles (except those found in the Bible) See Miracles
113. Believe in ghosts
114. Witchcraft
115. Black magic
116. White magic
117. Consult with a psychic or become one
118. Study tarot cards, get a reading or give a reading
119. Study numerology or get a reading
120. Dabble in ESP (extrasensory perception), dowsing, or divination
121. Use a tool such as a pendulum to access information from the spiritual realm
122. Attempt to communicate with departed spirits. See What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About Death?
123. Attend a seance
124. Believe in good luck or say things such as 'Good luck to you'. Why?
125. Believe or say anything superstitious
126. Prophesy
127. Speaking in tongues
128. Laying on of hands
129. Energy healing such as Reiki
130. Read their horoscope
131. Study astrology or zodiac signs
132. Combat training, boxing, or martial arts
133. Go to heaven unless they are part of the 144,000 (144000)
134. Worship Jesus as God
135. Idolize any celebrity or love and admire them to excess
136. Women can't be elders
137. Women can't be ministerial servants (assistants to the elders)
138. Divulge secret information to enemies and those not entitled to know. See Theocratic Warfare
139. Greet or talk with disfellowshipped persons (with some exceptions)
140. Associate with disfellowshipped persons except for immediate family living in the same house
141. Keep secrets from them
Acts 15:20, "You write unto them (the Gentiles), that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled and from blood." Verse 29, "That you abstain from food offered to idols and from blood, and from things strangled."
The Witnesses have twisted the meaning of these verses. When this was written, certain Gentiles in their worship of their gods would sacrifice their victim, either animal or human, and drink their blood as it is offered up to their god or gods. It has nothing to do with blood transfusions given by doctors to save lives. Half the fighting men in uniform over the past 100 years or those in serious automobile accidents, or any other life-threatening injury would not be with us today if it weren't for blood transfusions. Drinking the blood of a sacrifice or an enemy was a worldwide practice. The South American Incas and island tribes in Borneo, Africa, and even in Europe centuries ago held to this practice. I believe it may still be going on today. That's my take, your thoughts.
This one rule alone would prevent me from even considering joining any organization that would put a life in danger to satisfy any personal agendas.
Blood substitutes
These include volume expanders, like saline, and oxygen therapeutics, like hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs). HBOCs are compatible with all blood types and don't require refrigeration, but they can cause severe immune reactions. Hemopure is a bovine hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution that can be used as a bridge while the body regenerates blood. However, it can be risky and may cause complications like heart attack and stroke.
https://www.google.com/search?q=is+ther ... s-wiz-serp