1. Jehovah’s Witnesses: The Watchtower Society Copyright by Norman L. Geisler 2010

2. Outline I. Background of Jehovah’s Witnesses II. Basic Beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses III. Evaluation of Jehovah’s Witnesses IV. Answering Objections

3. Outline I. Background of Jehovah’s Witnesses I. Background of Jehovah’s Witnesses A. History of the Movement B. Basic Writings of the Movement C. Membership of the Movement C. Membership of the Movement

4. A. History of the Movement 1. "Pastor" Charles Taze Russell (1852-1916) began his teaching c.1870. 2. “”Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society” was incorporated in 1884 by Russell. He wrote a six volume set called Studies in the Scriptures. 3. Judge Joseph F. Rutherford (1869-1942) began 1916. He wrote Harp of God and 19 more books (1921-1941). Russell Russell Rutherford

5. 4. Name "Jehovah's Witnesses” was chosen to distinguish them from splinter group "Russellites." 6. It was Incorporated in 1931 as the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. The offices are in Brooklyn, NY. 7. In 1975 the "governing body" (of about 12 men) became the supreme authority of JWs. 8. President Nathan Knorr began the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead (1943) and published the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. 8. President Nathan Knorr began the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead (1943) and published the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. 9. Next presidents were Fred Franz and Milton Henschel. 9. Next presidents were Fred Franz and Milton Henschel.

6. B.Basic Writings of the Witnesses 1. Bible: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures 2. Magazines: The Watchtower and Awake

7. 3. Books: Studies in the Scriptures (SS)—7 vols. by Russell Studies in the Scriptures (SS)—7 vols. by Russell Deliverance (D) Deliverance (D) The Harp of God (HG) The Harp of God (HG) The New Heavens and New Earth (NHNE) The New Heavens and New Earth (NHNE) What has Religion done for Mankind? (WRM) What has Religion done for Mankind? (WRM) Let God be True (LGT) Let God be True (LGT) Reasoning from the Scriptures (RS) Reasoning from the Scriptures (RS) Let Your Name be Sanctified (LNS) Let Your Name be Sanctified (LNS) Aid to Bible Understanding (ABU) Aid to Bible Understanding (ABU) Should You Believe in the Trinity? (SBT) Should You Believe in the Trinity? (SBT) Make Sure of All Things (MSAT). Make Sure of All Things (MSAT).

8. C. JWs Membership: Now Seven Million

9. Outline I. Background of Jehovah’s Witnesses II. Basic Beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses

10. A. Belief about the Bible 1. The Bible is the Inspired Word of God. 2.Most Bible translations distort the Word of God on crucial doctrines. 3.The only trustworthy translation is the JW’s New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (1961).

11. B. Belief about God 1. There is only one God and only one person is God (the Father) who is called Jehovah (MSAT, 386). Son is one in “purpose,” not nature, with God. 2. The Trinity is a pagan doctrine (LGT, 101-102). It is the most “deceptive doctrine” (RS, 407). It is the most “deceptive doctrine” (RS, 407). The Holy Spirit is not a person but a force emanating from the Father (RS, 406-407). The Holy Spirit is not a person but a force emanating from the Father (RS, 406-407). “The holy spirit has no personal name. The reason for this is that the holy spirit is not an intelligent person. It is the impersonal, invisible active force that finds it source and reservoir in Jehovah God and that he uses to accomplish his will…” (LNS, 269). “The holy spirit has no personal name. The reason for this is that the holy spirit is not an intelligent person. It is the impersonal, invisible active force that finds it source and reservoir in Jehovah God and that he uses to accomplish his will…” (LNS, 269). He is “a force that can be adapted to perform a great variety of operations” (SYBT, 20). He is “a force that can be adapted to perform a great variety of operations” (SYBT, 20).

12. C. Belief about Christ “Michael the archangel is no other than the only- begotten Son of Jehovah God, now Jesus Christ” “Michael the archangel is no other than the only- begotten Son of Jehovah God, now Jesus Christ” (NHNE, 30-31). “‘ Michael the great prince’ is none other than Jesus Christ himself” (W [12/15/84], 29). (NHNE, 30-31). “‘ Michael the great prince’ is none other than Jesus Christ himself” (W [12/15/84], 29). 1. Before Bethlehem--Christ was Michael the archangel, the first created being (LGT, 101). 1. Before Bethlehem--Christ was Michael the archangel, the first created being (LGT, 101). 2. While on earth--a sinless man of flesh [not an angel] (NHNE, 28-30; RS, 306)). 3. After the resurrection--Christ became a spirit (Michael) again (WRM, 231). a. Jesus’ Resurrection was in a "spirit" body. b. Either his physical body turned to gases or else God has preserved it somewhere (D, 235). b. Either his physical body turned to gases or else God has preserved it somewhere (D, 235).

13. D. Beliefs about Human Beings 1. Man is a soul/body identity (Monism) 1. Man is a soul/body identity (Monism) 2. At death we cease to exist (Annihilation) 2. At death we cease to exist (Annihilation) a. “Hell” is the grave. a. “Hell” is the grave. b. There is no place of conscious torment. b. There is no place of conscious torment. 3. At resurrection believers get a recreation. 3. At resurrection believers get a recreation.

14. E. Beliefs about Salvation 1.God's part: Death of Christ provides deliverance of all men from death (namely, by their resurrection and a second chance for salvation, HG, 170). 2.Faith plus Works are necessary for salvation (SS, vol 1, 150, 152). 2. Man's part: those who are faithful in this life and in the Millennium will be saved. a.144,000--"Anointed class" of heavenly spirits who reign with Christ (LGT, 301). b."Great Crowd " or "Other sheep"--others form an earthly class of bodies who live on earth forever.

15. F. Beliefs about the Church 1. All Christian churches are apostate and idolatrous instruments of the Devil. 2. Jehovah's Witnesses "Anointed Class " (144,000) are the true Theocracy of God. 3. Only the “Anointed Class” can take communion offered only once a year (about 1/20 of JW’s partake). 3. Only the “Anointed Class” can take communion offered only once a year (about 1/20 of JW’s partake). 4. “Unless we are in touch with this channel of communication [The Watchtower Society]…, we will not progress along the road of life, no matter how much Bible reading we do” (Watchtower [12/1/81], 27). 4. “Unless we are in touch with this channel of communication [The Watchtower Society]…, we will not progress along the road of life, no matter how much Bible reading we do” (Watchtower [12/1/81], 27).

16. JW Organization Claims to be God’s “Prophet” on Earth “Who is this prophet?... This “prophet” was not one man, but was a body of men and women. It was…[the] International Bible Students. Today they are know as Jehovah’s Christian Witnesses” (Watchtower [4/1/72], 197). “Who is this prophet?... This “prophet” was not one man, but was a body of men and women. It was…[the] International Bible Students. Today they are know as Jehovah’s Christian Witnesses” (Watchtower [4/1/72], 197).

17. G. Beliefs About the Future G. Beliefs About the Future 1. Christ's reign began (invisibly) in l914 A.D. Dan. 4:32 says "seven times" or times of the Gentiles=360 x 7 = 2520 "days"= years: 607 B. C. to l914 A.D. (TSMF, 300). 2. Present world is headed toward the Battle of Armageddon. 3. Millennium will follow in which humans will be resurrected to salvation or else to a second chance "trial" for life. 3. Millennium will follow in which humans will be resurrected to salvation or else to a second chance "trial" for life. a. 144,000 “anointed” will be in heaven forever. a. 144,000 “anointed” will be in heaven forever. b. The rest of JWs live on earth forever. b. The rest of JWs live on earth forever. 4. Those who reject 2 nd chance will be annihilated. 4. Those who reject 2 nd chance will be annihilated. There is no hell (LGT, 79, 80). There is no hell (LGT, 79, 80).

18. H. Beliefs About Other Things 1. All human government is demonically controlled. 2.It is idolatrous to salute the flag, hold political office, or go to war. 3. Voting, holding a government job, and serving in military are sinful. 3. Voting, holding a government job, and serving in military are sinful. 4.Blood transfusions, vaccinations, and organ transplants once held to be sinful (RS, 72- 73)—now no longer forbidden. 5.Birthday and holiday celebrations are "pagan” and sinful.

19. 6. JWs engage in “Shunning” those who have been disfellowshipped (excommunicated), even their own family members (Watchtower [7/15/63], 443-444)

20. Outline I. Background of Jehovah’s Witnesses II. Basic Beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses III. Evaluation of Jehovah’s Witnesses

21. A. Evaluation of their View of the Bible

22. JW translation: “In [the] beginning the Word was, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god” (Jn. 1:1) “Truly I tell you today, You will be with me in Paradise [some day]” (Lk. 23:43). Three Way to deny Scripture: Add to it (like Roman Catholics), or take away from it (like Liberals), or mistranslate it (like JWs).

23. Noted Scholars on JW Bible Princeton Professor Bruce M. Metzger ( The Bible Translator 15/3 (July 1964) declared that they “ have incorporated in their translation of the New Testament several quite erroneous renderings of the Greek." Others are "totally without warrant from the Greek” and some are Princeton Professor Bruce M. Metzger ( The Bible Translator 15/3 (July 1964) declared that they “ have incorporated in their translation of the New Testament several quite erroneous renderings of the Greek." Others are "totally without warrant from the Greek” and some are “a plain piece of special pleading.“ Dr. Julius Mantey (A Manual Grammar of the Greek NT) Dr. Julius Mantey (A Manual Grammar of the Greek NT) called it “a shocking mistranslation.” British scholar H.H. Rowley asserted that “From beginning to end this volume is a shinning example of how the Bible should not be translated” (cited by Ron Rhodes, RSJW, 97). called it “a shocking mistranslation.” British scholar H.H. Rowley asserted that “From beginning to end this volume is a shinning example of how the Bible should not be translated” (cited by Ron Rhodes, RSJW, 97).

24. Spiritist Cited as Basis for JW View 1. In his NT (1937) he trans. Jn. 1:1 as “the Word [Christ] was a god.” 2. JWs use this rendering and cite Greber as an authority (later repudiated). 3. Greber was a spiritist, author of Communication with the Spirit World. 4. Greber claimed spirits helped him translate his Bible by revealing “large illuminated letters and words passing before his eyes” (Rhodes, RSJW, 102).

25. Ant-Trinitarian Bias in JW Bible Gen. 1:1-2. "In [the] beginning God created the heavens and the earth…. And God's active force was moving to and fro over the surface of the waters." The ruach elohim ("Spirit of God"). This was to avoid the Trinitarian understanding of the "Spirit of God." Gen. 1:1-2. "In [the] beginning God created the heavens and the earth…. And God's active force was moving to and fro over the surface of the waters." The ruach elohim ("Spirit of God"). This was to avoid the Trinitarian understanding of the "Spirit of God." Zech. 12:10. "...they will look upon the one whom they have pierced..." Here the Hebrew "look upon me [God] whom they have pierced," is altered in order to avoid the assertion that the one who is to be pierced is God. Zech. 12:10. "...they will look upon the one whom they have pierced..." Here the Hebrew "look upon me [God] whom they have pierced," is altered in order to avoid the assertion that the one who is to be pierced is God. John 1:1. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god." Instead of the literal "the Word was God," we have "a god," which JWs interprets as a created angelic being. John 1:1. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god." Instead of the literal "the Word was God," we have "a god," which JWs interprets as a created angelic being. Col. 1:15-17. "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; because by means of him all [other] things were created in the heavens and upon the earth….” “Other” was added because they believe Christ is a created being rather than the eternal God. Col. 1:15-17. "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; because by means of him all [other] things were created in the heavens and upon the earth….” “Other” was added because they believe Christ is a created being rather than the eternal God. Heb. 1:8. "God is your throne forever." This nonsensical statement is put instead of "your throne, O God, is forever." Heb. 1:8. "God is your throne forever." This nonsensical statement is put instead of "your throne, O God, is forever."

26. B. Evaluation of their View of God 1. The Father and Son are both called Lord and God 1. The Father and Son are both called Lord and God Psa. 2:7—“The LORD has said to me, ‘You are My Son’”; Psa. 45:6,7—“Your throne O God is forever and ever…. Psa. 110:1—“The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand till I make your enemies your footstool’”; Prov. 30:4—“What is His name, and what is His Son’s name, if you know.” Isa. 9:6--“His name shall be called wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Father of Eternity….” Isa. 63:7, 9—“…the LORD has bestowed on us…. And the Angel [Messenger] of His presence saved them” [cf. Ex. 3:2-14]; Zech. 1:12.—“The the Angel [Messenger] of the LORD answered and said, ‘O LORD of hosts…’”; Mt. 3:17—”A Voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’”; Jn. 17:5—”And now Father glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.”; Heb. 1:8--”but of the son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever….’” Psa. 2:7—“The LORD has said to me, ‘You are My Son’”; Psa. 45:6,7—“Your throne O God is forever and ever…. Psa. 110:1—“The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand till I make your enemies your footstool’”; Prov. 30:4—“What is His name, and what is His Son’s name, if you know.” Isa. 9:6--“His name shall be called wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Father of Eternity….” Isa. 63:7, 9—“…the LORD has bestowed on us…. And the Angel [Messenger] of His presence saved them” [cf. Ex. 3:2-14]; Zech. 1:12.—“The the Angel [Messenger] of the LORD answered and said, ‘O LORD of hosts…’”; Mt. 3:17—”A Voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’”; Jn. 17:5—”And now Father glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.”; Heb. 1:8--”but of the son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever….’”

27. B. Evaluation of their View of God 1. The Father and Son are both called God 1. The Father and Son are both called God 2. The Holy Spirit is a Person (not a Force) 2. The Holy Spirit is a Person (not a Force) Mat. 28:19--“Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name [not “names”] of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Mat. 28:19--“Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name [not “names”] of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” J n. 14:26—“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send I my name, he will teach you all things…” J n. 14:26—“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send I my name, he will teach you all things…” Jn. 16:13—When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth….” Jn. 16:13—When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth….” Eph. 5:30—“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit, by whom you are sealed to the day of redemption.” Eph. 5:30—“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit, by whom you are sealed to the day of redemption.” 1 Cor. 12:11: We are “empowered by one and the same Spirit…as he wills.” 1 Cor. 12:11: We are “empowered by one and the same Spirit…as he wills.” Acts 13:14: They were “sent on their way by [the command of] the Holy Spirit.” Acts 13:14: They were “sent on their way by [the command of] the Holy Spirit.”

28. 3. The Holy Spirit is God. a. He has the name of God, “the Spirit of God” a. He has the name of God, “the Spirit of God” b. He performs acts of God like creation (Gen. 1:2), regeneration (Jn. 3:5-7), and miracles (1 Cor. 12:8-11). b. He performs acts of God like creation (Gen. 1:2), regeneration (Jn. 3:5-7), and miracles (1 Cor. 12:8-11). c. He is associated with other persons in God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit (Mt. 28:18-20) c. He is associated with other persons in God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit (Mt. 28:18-20) d. He can be blasphemed like God (Mt. 12:32). d. He can be blasphemed like God (Mt. 12:32). e. He can be lied to as God (Acts 5:3, 5): e. He can be lied to as God (Acts 5:3, 5): Peter said, ‘Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit…. You have not lied to men but to God.” Peter said, ‘Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit…. You have not lied to men but to God.” f. He is used in a benediction from God ( 2 Cor. 13:14): “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

29. C. Evaluation of their View of Christ 1. The Messiah (Christ) is called God in the OT Psa 2:7—“The LORD has said to me, ‘You are My Son.’” Psa. 45:6,7—“Your throne O God is forever and ever…. Therefore, God, even your God, has anointed you….” Psa. 110:1—“The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand till I make your enemies your footstool.’” Prov. 30:4—“What is His name, and what is His Son’s name, if you know.” Isa. 9:6--“His name shall be called wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,* Father of Eternity….” Isa. 63:7, 9—“…the LORD has bestowed on us…. And the Angel [Messenger] of His presence saved them” [Ex. 3:2-14]. Zech. 1:12.—“The the Angel [Messenger] of the LORD answered and said, ‘O LORD of hosts….’” Zech. 12:10.—“And I [the LORD] will pour on the house of David…the spirit of grace; then they will look on Me [the LORD] whom they have pierced….” Zech. 14:16.— “All the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up form year to year to worship the King, the LORD of host….” *Same word is used of LORD [Jehovah] in Isa. 10:21.

30. 2. There are no “lesser” gods. JW Claim: Jesus is a “lesser god” (Jn. 1:1) Bible Response: Deut. 32:39: “See now that I, I am He, and there is no god besides Me.” Isa. 43:10: Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me.” Isa. 44:8: “Is there any God besides Me, or is there any other Rock? I know of none.” Isa. 45:5: “I am the LORD, and there is no other besides Me there is no God.” 1 Cor. 8:5-6: “For although there many be so-called gods in heaven or on earth--…yet for us there is one God….”

31. 3. Jesus claimed to be Jehovah (God) 1. He claimed to be the "I AM.” He said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM” (Jn. 8:58) [of Ex. 3:14] in John 5:58. [Even JW note on Ex. 3:14 [1984 ed.] admits that OT Greek translation (Septuagint) of ego eimi in Ex. 3:14 is same as Jn. 8:58]. 2. He forgave sins which only God can do. Jesus said, “Son, your sins are forgiven you” The scribes replied, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Mk. 2:5-7). 3. He claimed He should be honored just as the Father is honored. “All should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father” (Jn. 5:23). 4. He said He was the Jewish Messiah who was God (Isa. 9:6; 45:6; Psa. 110:1; Zech. 12:10). “The woman said to Him, ‘I know the Messiah is coming….’ Jesus said to her, ‘I who speak to you am He’” (Jn. 4:25-26). The high priest said, “’Are you the Christ [Messiah], the Son of the blessed?’ And Jesus said, ‘I am, and you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. Then the high priest said, ‘what further need do we have of witness? You have heard the blasphemy!’” (Mk. 14:61-62).

32. 5. He accepted worship on numerous occasions which is due only to God (Mt. 4:10) when both humans (Acts 14:15) and angels o refused worship (Rev. 22:8-9). Yet Jesus accepted worship by 1) The mother of James & John (Mt. 20:20); 2) The Gerasene demoniac (Mk. 5:6); 3) A blind man (Jn. 9:38); 4) Doubting Thomas (Jn. 20:28); 5) The women at the tomb (Mt. 28:9);6) Canaanite woman (Mt. 15:25); 7) His disciples (Mt. 14:33); 8) A healed leper (Mt. 8:2); 9) A rich young ruler [Mt. 9:18); 10) disciples at Great Commission (Mt. 28:17). 6. He put His words on the level with God’s. “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away” (Mt. 24:35). “He that rejects Me, … the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (Jn. 12:48). 7. He asked Us to pray in His Name. “Whatever you ask in My name that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (Jn. 14:13). 8. He accepted the titles of deity. “And Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and My God” (Jn. 20:28). “Simon Peter …said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.’ Jesus said, ‘Blessed are you, (Mt. 16:17-18). 9. He claimed to be “the first and the last” (Rev. 22:13 cf. Isa. 44:6).

33. 4. His Disciples Claimed He was God Peter did: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Mt. 16:16-18).Peter did: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Mt. 16:16-18). John did: “In the beginning was the Word., and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (Jn. 1:1 cf. 8:58; 12:41 (cf. Isa. 6:1; 20:28)John did: “In the beginning was the Word., and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (Jn. 1:1 cf. 8:58; 12:41 (cf. Isa. 6:1; 20:28) The Writer of Hebrews did: Christ “being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of his power…” (1:3). “For to which of the angels did He ever say: ‘You are My Son’” (1:5). “When He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of god worship Him’” (1:6) “But to the Son He says, ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever…’” (1:8).The Writer of Hebrews did: Christ “being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of his power…” (1:3). “For to which of the angels did He ever say: ‘You are My Son’” (1:5). “When He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of god worship Him’” (1:6) “But to the Son He says, ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever…’” (1:8). Paul did: “Christ, who is over all, the eternally blessed God (Rom. 9:5). “Looking for the blessed hope and the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). “For by Him all things were created…. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist [are held together] (Col. 1:16-17). “For in Him all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily” (Col. 2:9). Paul did: “Christ, who is over all, the eternally blessed God (Rom. 9:5). “Looking for the blessed hope and the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). “For by Him all things were created…. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist [are held together] (Col. 1:16-17). “For in Him all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily” (Col. 2:9).

34. Jesus was not Michael the Archangel 1.Jesus is Jehovah (see above), and Michael is only an angel. 2.Jesus is worshipped by angels and, so, he is not one of them (Heb. 1:6) 3.Jesus created angels and, so, he was not one of them (Col. 1:16). 4.Jesus rebuked the Devil (Mt. 17:18) and Michael could not do this (Jude 9). 5.Michael means “who is like God” but Jesus is God (see above). 6.Michael is distinguished from Jesus (1 Thes. 4:16).

35. Answering Some Objections Objection 1: Jesus Denied He was God Jesus said, “Why call me good? There is none good but God” (Mk. 10:18). Response: This is not a denial but a question. Jesus is asking him if he realized the implications of his statement. Objection 2. Jesus said, “The Father is greater than I” (Jn. 14:28). Response: The Father as God is greater than Jesus is as a man. The Father is greater in office, but not better in nature. Objection 3: Jesus affirmed that “But of that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk. 13:32). Response: Jesus knew the time as God; he did not know it as man. He has two natures.. Objection 1: Jesus Denied He was God Jesus said, “Why call me good? There is none good but God” (Mk. 10:18). Response: This is not a denial but a question. Jesus is asking him if he realized the implications of his statement. Objection 2. Jesus said, “The Father is greater than I” (Jn. 14:28). Response: The Father as God is greater than Jesus is as a man. The Father is greater in office, but not better in nature. Objection 3: Jesus affirmed that “But of that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk. 13:32). Response: Jesus knew the time as God; he did not know it as man. He has two natures..

36. Father Holy Spirit Holy Spirit Son Human Nature Human Nature Divine Nature Divine Nature God’s Tri-Unity Note: 1) Jesus knew everything in His divine nature. 2) Jesus did not know everything in his human nature. Note: 1) Jesus knew everything in His divine nature. 2) Jesus did not know everything in his human nature.

37. Objection 4: Jn. 17:3 says Jesus prayed to the Father, saying, “this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” Response: He said the Father is the only true God, but he did not say that only the Father is God (cf. Gen. 7:23; Jn. 8:9). Objection 5: In Jn. 10:34 Jesus said, “You are gods” [in a derivative sense], not in an absolute sense. Likewise, Jesus was God only in a derivative sense. Response: His argument in John 10 is a fortiori, (with the greater force) namely, “If human judges can be called gods (in Psa. 82) in that they stand in the place of God in a derivative sense, how much more can the Son of God be called God who is God in an absolute sense (Jn. 1:1,2; 8:58; Jn. 20:28; Rom. 9:5; Heb. 1:8). Objection 4: Jn. 17:3 says Jesus prayed to the Father, saying, “this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” Response: He said the Father is the only true God, but he did not say that only the Father is God (cf. Gen. 7:23; Jn. 8:9). Objection 5: In Jn. 10:34 Jesus said, “You are gods” [in a derivative sense], not in an absolute sense. Likewise, Jesus was God only in a derivative sense. Response: His argument in John 10 is a fortiori, (with the greater force) namely, “If human judges can be called gods (in Psa. 82) in that they stand in the place of God in a derivative sense, how much more can the Son of God be called God who is God in an absolute sense (Jn. 1:1,2; 8:58; Jn. 20:28; Rom. 9:5; Heb. 1:8).

38. Objection 6: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation” (Col. 1:15). It is objected that Jesus was the first one born or created. Response: “firstborn” can mean priority in rank, not in time (David was youngest son but God’s “firstborn”--Psa. 89:27). He is not created but Creator and sustainer of all things (vs. 16-17). So, He is first over creation, not first in creation. Objection 7: Christ is called “the beginning of the creation of God.” They claim this means he was the first one created (Rev. 3:14). Response: 1) This means absolute Beginner, Source of all. 2) Otherwise, it would contradict the clear teaching that He created all things (Jn. 1:3; Heb. 1:3; Col. 1:16). 3) This same term is used of the “Lord” the “Almighty” (1:8). It is also used of the Father who is God (21:5-6). Objection 6: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation” (Col. 1:15). It is objected that Jesus was the first one born or created. Response: “firstborn” can mean priority in rank, not in time (David was youngest son but God’s “firstborn”--Psa. 89:27). He is not created but Creator and sustainer of all things (vs. 16-17). So, He is first over creation, not first in creation. Objection 7: Christ is called “the beginning of the creation of God.” They claim this means he was the first one created (Rev. 3:14). Response: 1) This means absolute Beginner, Source of all. 2) Otherwise, it would contradict the clear teaching that He created all things (Jn. 1:3; Heb. 1:3; Col. 1:16). 3) This same term is used of the “Lord” the “Almighty” (1:8). It is also used of the Father who is God (21:5-6).

39. Objection 8: “For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten son…” (Jn. 3:16). Response: “Only begotten” (Gk. monogenas) means unique or one of a kind. Isaac was called “only begotten” (Heb. 11:17) when Abraham had another son (Ishmael). So it can’t mean the first one born. Objection 9: He can’t be both God and Man at the same time; this is contradictory. Response: 1. He is God and Man at the same time, but not both in the same sense. 2. One can be a father and a husband at the same time, but not in the same sense. 3. Jesus has both a divine and a human nature. Objection 8: “For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten son…” (Jn. 3:16). Response: “Only begotten” (Gk. monogenas) means unique or one of a kind. Isaac was called “only begotten” (Heb. 11:17) when Abraham had another son (Ishmael). So it can’t mean the first one born. Objection 9: He can’t be both God and Man at the same time; this is contradictory. Response: 1. He is God and Man at the same time, but not both in the same sense. 2. One can be a father and a husband at the same time, but not in the same sense. 3. Jesus has both a divine and a human nature.

40. Father Holy Spirit Holy Spirit Son Human Nature Human Nature Divine Nature Divine Nature God’s Tri-Unity Note: 1) The divine nature is not the human nature. 2) Jesus has both natures at the same time, but they are not both the same nature (the triangle is not the circle). Note: 1) The divine nature is not the human nature. 2) Jesus has both natures at the same time, but they are not both the same nature (the triangle is not the circle).

41. D. Evaluation of JW View of Resurrection Jesus was raised in the same physical body of flesh and bones in which he died. His resurrection body: 1. Left an empty tomb and grave clothes behind (Mt. 28:6; Jn. 29:5-7). 1. Left an empty tomb and grave clothes behind (Mt. 28:6; Jn. 29:5-7). 2. Had crucifixion scars (Lk. 24:37 Jn. 20:27). 2. Had crucifixion scars (Lk. 24:37 Jn. 20:27). 3. Was the same as the one that died (Jn. 2:19-22). 3. Was the same as the one that died (Jn. 2:19-22). 4. Had flesh and bones (Lk. 24:39). 4. Had flesh and bones (Lk. 24:39). 5. Was touched by physical hands (Mt. 28:9; Jn. 20:17). 5. Was touched by physical hands (Mt. 28:9; Jn. 20:17). 6. Was seen with physical eyes (1 Cor. 9:1; 15:6-8) 6. Was seen with physical eyes (1 Cor. 9:1; 15:6-8) 7. Ate food on several occasions (Lk. 24:42-43; Acts 10:41). 7. Ate food on several occasions (Lk. 24:42-43; Acts 10:41).

42. E. Evaluation of JW View of Salvation 1. Salvation is not by faith plus works as JW say. The Watchtower affirmed that “to get one’s name written in the Book of Life will depend on one’s works” (4/1/47, p. 204). The Watchtower affirmed that “to get one’s name written in the Book of Life will depend on one’s works” (4/1/47, p. 204). JW’s “…must be set apart more and more from this world…, demonstrating their dependability by carrying out their dedication faithfully until death” (LGT, 200) JW’s “…must be set apart more and more from this world…, demonstrating their dependability by carrying out their dedication faithfully until death” (LGT, 200) Eph. 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved though faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works….” Eph. 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved though faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works….” Titus 3:5-6: “…he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his mercy….” Titus 3:5-6: “…he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his mercy….” Rom 4:5: “And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly; his faith is counted as righteousness….” Rom 4:5: “And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly; his faith is counted as righteousness….”

43. 2. Christ’s atonement was not incomplete JW hold that Christ only died to pay the exact amount for Adam’s sin and make it possible for men to work their way toward salvation. “Since one man’s sin (that of Adam) has been responsible for causing the entire human family to be sinners, the shed blood of another perfect human (in effect, a second Adam), being of corresponding value, could balance the scales of justice.” So, if Jesus had been God, the payment would have been way too much! Response: 1) Only a God-man can mediate between God and man (1 Tim. 2:5). 2) Christ’s death was sufficient to pay for the sins of all mankind (Rom. 5:18-19; 1 Jn. 2:2). 3) He had to be God to satisfy the righteous demands of a holy God (Rom. 3:21-26). 4) He had to be a perfect man since a sinner cannot save sinners. 5) Christ work on the Cross was complete (Jn. 19:30; Heb. 10:14). All that is left is for us to accept his free gift of salvation (Rom. 6:23). Salvation is by faith alone (Jn. 3:15, 16, 36; 5:24; 11:25: 12:46; 20:31; Acts 16:31; Rom. 3:20; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5-6).

44. JW Objections to Physical Resurrection Objection 1: 1 Cor. 15:44 speaks of a “spiritual body.” Response: 1) Manna was “spiritual” food (1 Cor. 10: 3) but it was literal food. 2) Godly Christian is “spiritual” ( 1 Cor. 2:15) but has a physical body. 3) The literal Bible is a spiritual book. 4) “Spiritual” means dominated or directed by the spirit, that is, immortal, not immaterial. 5) resurrection body is a spiritual (i.e., spirit directed) “soma” which always means physical body (when used of individual humans in the NT. Objection 2: 1 Cor. 15:50 says “flesh and blood can’t enter the kingdom of God.” Response: 1) In context (v. 53) it means “mortal” flesh. 2) Resurrection body has immortal “flesh and bones” (Lk. 24:39). Response: 1) In context (v. 53) it means “mortal” flesh. 2) Resurrection body has immortal “flesh and bones” (Lk. 24:39).

45. JW Objections to Physical Resurrection Objection 3: Resurrection body will be a “changed” body. Response: 1) The change is from mortal to immortal, not from material to immaterial. 2) The change is not in substance but in accidents (qualities). Objection 4: Jesus resurrection body could walk through doors, so, it must have been immaterial. Response: 1) It does not actually say he walked through the door (Jn. 20:19). 2) He could walk on water in a physical body before his resurrection. 3) The resurrection body has supernatural abilities, but it is still a physical body.

46. E. Evaluation of JW View of the Soul Contrary to JW view, the Soul (immaterial dimension of human beings) can exist apart from their body: Contrary to JW view, the Soul (immaterial dimension of human beings) can exist apart from their body: Mat. 10:28: Only the body can be killed, not the soul. Mat. 10:28: Only the body can be killed, not the soul. Mat. 17:3: Moses and Elijah were conscious in heaven. Mat. 17:3: Moses and Elijah were conscious in heaven. Lk. 16:22-28: Rich man and Lazarus were conscious after death. Lk. 16:22-28: Rich man and Lazarus were conscious after death. Lk. 20:38: Abraham was still “living” in Jesus’ day. Lk. 20:38: Abraham was still “living” in Jesus’ day. Lk. 23:43: Thief on Cross was conscious in Paradise. Lk. 23:43: Thief on Cross was conscious in Paradise. 2 Cor. 5:8: We are “absent from the body and present with Christ.” 2 Cor. 5:8: We are “absent from the body and present with Christ.” Phil. 1:23: “It is far better to depart and to be with Christ.” Phil. 1:23: “It is far better to depart and to be with Christ.” 1 Thes. 4:14: Departed souls will come “with” Christ at his return. 1 Thes. 4:14: Departed souls will come “with” Christ at his return. Heb. 12:23: “Spirits of the righteous [are] made perfect” in heaven. Heb. 12:23: “Spirits of the righteous [are] made perfect” in heaven. Rev. 6:9-10: “Souls” in heaven were conscious. Rev. 6:9-10: “Souls” in heaven were conscious. Lk. 23:46: Jesus’ “spirit” was conscious in Paradise (cf. Lk. 23:43). between death and resurrection. Note: “I say unto you” is common introductory phrase. It is redundant to say “I say unto you today.” Lk. 23:46: Jesus’ “spirit” was conscious in Paradise (cf. Lk. 23:43). between death and resurrection. Note: “I say unto you” is common introductory phrase. It is redundant to say “I say unto you today.”

47. F. Evaluation of their View of Hell The Evidence that Hell is not annihilation: 1.It is a place of “torment,” and there is no torment in nothingness. 2.It is a place of “weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Mt. 13:50) which is a conscious activity. 3.It is “everlasting” (2 Thes. 1:7-9), but annihilation is instantaneous. 4.There are degrees of punishment in Hell (Rev. 20:12- 13), but there are no degrees of nothingness. 5.Rich man was in “torment” in Hell (Lk. 16:23). 6.The beast and false prophet were conscious after 1000 years in the Lake of fire (Rev. 29:10 cf. 19:20). 7.Hell is “eternal” which is the same word used for God (Rom 16:26; 1 Tim. 1:7; Heb. 9:14; 13:7; Rev. 4:9).

48. G. Evaluation of their View of Future 1. No one knows the time of Christ’s return. 1. No one knows the time of Christ’s return. Matt. 24:36: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, not the Son.” Matt. 24:36: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, not the Son.” Acts 1:7: “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.”

49. G. Evaluation of their View of Future 1. No one knows the time of Christ’s return. 1. No one knows the time of Christ’s return. Matt. 24:36: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, not the Son.” Matt. 24:36: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, not the Son.” Acts 1:7: “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.” 2. Christ’s return is visible and physical. 2. Christ’s return is visible and physical. Acts 1:10-11: “This Jesus…will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” Rev. 1:7: “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him….” Mat. 24:3: “Tell us, …what will be the sing of your coming (parousia)* and of the end of close of the age? Mat. 24:3: “Tell us, …what will be the sing of your coming (parousia)* and of the end of close of the age? *This means physical appearing (2 Cor. 16:17; 2 Cor. 7:6) *This means physical appearing (2 Cor. 16:17; 2 Cor. 7:6)

50. 3.The 144,00 are not “anointed” Christians, as JWs believe. 1. The text says they are only “men” who have not known women (Rev. 14:4), men and women, as JWs believe. 2. The word “tribe” is always used literally in the Bible. Hence, they are Jews from various tribes of Israel. 3. They are future saints from the Tribulation period (Rev. 7:13-14), not from today.

51. 4. Many False Prophecies of JWs Deut. 18:22: “If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously.” Deut. 18:22: “If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously.” 1897—“Our Lord, the appointed King, is now present, since October 1874” (SS, vol. 4, 621) 1899—“…the battle of the great day of God Almighty (Rev. 16:14) which will end in 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced” (The Time is at Hand, 101[1908 edition]). 1916—“The Bible chronology herein presented shows that…the great 7 th Day, the 1000 years of Christ’s Reign, began in 1873” (The Time is at Hand, p. ii (Forward). 1918—Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostles in Hebrews 11, to the condition of human perfection” (Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 89).

52. 1922—“The date 1925 is even more distinctly indicated in Scripture than 1914” (The Watchtower [9/1/22], 262). 1923—“Our thought is, that 1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures” (WT [4/1/23], 106). 1925—“The year 1925 is here. With great expectation Christians have looked forward to this year. This may be accomplished. It may not be…. Christians should not be so deeply concerned about what may transpire” (WT [1/1/25], 3). 1925—“It is to be expected that Satan will try to inject into the minds of the consecrated, that thought that 1925 should see an end to the work” (WT [Sept., 1925], 262). 1926--“Some anticipated that the work would end in 1925, but the Lord did not state so. The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason...” (WT, [1926], 232). 1941--“Receiving the gift…,the Lord’s provided instruments for most effective work in the remaining months before Armageddon” (WT [9/15/41], 288).

53. 1968--“True, there have been those in times past who predicted an ‘end to the world’, even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The ‘end’ did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying? What was missing?... Missing from such people were God’s truths and evidence that he was pursuing and guiding them” (Awake, 10/8/68). 1968--“Why are you looking forward to 1975” (WT [8/1/68], 494). 148 Wrong Predictions—former JW William Schnell counted 148 changes made between 1917 and 1928 (Rhodes, RSJW, 350). Occult Predictions—Charles Taze Russell used Pyramidology to predict the future, saying, “This calculations shows A. D. 1874 as marking the beginning of the period of trouble…such as was not since there was a nation—no, nor ever shall be afterward” (Studies in the Scripture, cited by R. Tucker, Another Gospel, 124). a. This “Bible in Stone” doctrine was lauded till 1925. a. This “Bible in Stone” doctrine was lauded till 1925. b. It was finally repudiated in 1928 (by Judge Rutherford). b. It was finally repudiated in 1928 (by Judge Rutherford). In the OT one wrong prediction got someone stoned! In the OT one wrong prediction got someone stoned!

54. Russell is buried beneath a large pyramid

55. H. Evaluation of their view that Death is final; there is no second chance (Heb. 9:27; Jn. 5:23f.; Lk. 16:26). Resurrection of lost is not to second chance but to "damnation" (Jn. 5:29). I. That Government is demonic. Bible says it is ordained of God (Rom 13:1-7), and we are to obey it (Titus 3:1; 1 Pet. 2:13-14), unless they command us to sin (Ex. 1; Dan. 3, 6, Acts 4, 5; Rev. 13). J. That God opposes celebrating birthdays or events honoring others. He said, “Pay to all what is owed to them…respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed” (Rom. 13:7). “Rejoice with those who rejoice…” (Rom. 12:15). K. That all war is wrong. Not so, only unjust war is wrong (Gen. 9:6; 14:17-20; Ex. 22:2; Lk. 3:14; Rom. 13:1-7). Note: 1 Cor. 5:9-11 was disassociation for immorality, idolatry, etc., not for leaving JWs.

56. K. Children who Refuse Blood are Martyrs! 1. Blood transfusions are not “eating” blood forbidden in Acts 15. Blood is not sacred as they claim ( from Lev. 17:11). 1. Blood transfusions are not “eating” blood forbidden in Acts 15. Blood is not sacred as they claim ( from Lev. 17:11). 2. Not to save life is a sin (Js. 4:17). 2. Not to save life is a sin (Js. 4:17). 3. You don’t lose your salvation as JWs said: They “may result in the immediate and very temporary prolongation of life, but that at the cost of eternal life for a dedicated Christian” (Blood, Medicine, and the Law [’61], 55)! See Jn. 10:28; Rom.8:36; 2 Tim. 2:13; Phil. 1:6. 3. You don’t lose your salvation as JWs said: They “may result in the immediate and very temporary prolongation of life, but that at the cost of eternal life for a dedicated Christian” (Blood, Medicine, and the Law [’61], 55)! See Jn. 10:28; Rom.8:36; 2 Tim. 2:13; Phil. 1:6.

57. JWs on Use of Blood (1) Forbidden for all: transfusion of whole blood or any “primary” components: red cells; white cells; plasma (serum) and platelets (Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 29 and Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 31) (2) Permitted based on individual conscience— “fractions” of components of blood (Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 30 and Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 31) (3) Permitted: Use of their own blood circulated in machines—but not stored for an operation (Watchtower, 10/15/00, pp. 30-31).(1) Forbidden for all: transfusion of whole blood or any “primary” components: red cells; white cells; plasma (serum) and platelets (Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 29 and Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 31) (2) Permitted based on individual conscience— “fractions” of components of blood (Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 30 and Watchtower, 6/15/00, p. 31) (3) Permitted: Use of their own blood circulated in machines—but not stored for an operation (Watchtower, 10/15/00, pp. 30-31). See Blood's Out of Body Experience (a work that proves many JWs take blood transfusions anyway).See Blood's Out of Body Experience (a work that proves many JWs take blood transfusions anyway).

58. L. Other Medical Practices are Evil 1. Organ transplants are cannibalism (Watchtower, 1967; Reversed in 1980) 2. Vaccinations break God’s covenant with Noah (1931; Dropped in the 1950s)

59. M. Celebrating Birthdays are Sinful Reason given: The only two mentioned in the Bible were evil (Gen 40; Mat. 14). Response: 1) The text is descriptive, not prescriptive. 2) It was Pharaoh (and Herod) who did evil at the celebration, not the celebration itself. 3) Pharaoh also did good at the party (released a prisoner).

60. N. Wearing a Cross is Sinful Reasons: 1) Jesus did not die on a cross but on a stake; 2) Religious images are a form of idolatry. Response: 1) Even JW’s used the symbol of a cross and crown until 1931. 2) Jesus did die on a cross as is indicated by: a) the Greek word (stauros) that usually means a cross (Mt. 27:32); b) the use of two nails for his hands (Jn. 20:25-27); c) assertion that the inscription was above his head, not his hands (Mt. 27:37); d) Peters reference to Peter “stretching out his hands” to die (Jn. 21:18, 19). 3) Symbols (images) are not sinful unless they are use as a means of worship. Anything from a rock to the Bible can be an idol—if it is worshipped.

61. Rutherford’s Cadillac could have been an Idol!