It’s Saturday morning, and as you’re getting some cleaning done (and by “cleaning,” I mean binge-watching The Great British Baking Show on Netflix in your pajamas), you hear the dreaded knock on your door and peer out. Judging from their conservative clothes and the Watchtower magazines in hand, you quickly conclude you’re about to engage with some Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs). You now have two choices: you can either ignore the knocking and pretend you aren’t home (but really, what kind of message does that send to your kids?), or you can answer the door. My hope is that after you’ve read our articles on the Jehovah’s Witnesses (here and here), you will feel confident enough to engage in a conversation with them, but we also want to give you a bit more help in case you aren’t quite there yet. I know it can be daunting!
Why are we preparing for this conversation?
Did you know that Jehovah’s Witnesses prepare to talk to you? It’s true! They have classes at their weekly meetings to help develop their communication skills, and there is also written and online information available to them about how to engage with people about their faith. They also read a book called Reasoning from the Scriptures, which gives them answers to potential challenges like, “We are already Christians here,” “I’m not interested,” or even, “I’m a Muslim.”1Reasoning from the Scriptures (Brooklyn, NY: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 1985), 16-23.
Isn’t that wonderful? Don’t you wish you had practical lessons like that available at your own church? (Awesome if you do! If you don’t, Mama Bear’s got you covered!) Just think of this as the opportunity to be a missionary without having to leave your house! Moms are probably the busiest people on the planet, so we may not have time to quit everything and minister to a remote jungle tribe in Africa, but we can all be missionaries right where we are. As Hillary Short said in her Playground Apologetics series, “Wherever you are, that’s where God needs you!”
So, back to the JW classes…what do they learn at these classes? They are taught 1 Timothy 2:3-4, Acts 20:20, and 1 Peter 2:21 to encourage their members towards meaningful conversations with others about their beliefs. We should, too! Knowing that they are prepared before they knock on our doors tells us that we need to be prepared before we answer the door. It’s no fun getting steamrolled, overwhelmed, or tongue-tied.
One of the tips I found on the JW Website was that “Once the conversation has started, look for an opportunity to introduce the good news, but do not be in a hurry. Allow the conversation to develop naturally.”2“Improving Our Skills in the Ministry—Initiating a Conversation in Order to Witness Informally,” https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/202014241 (last accessed August 29, 2018). The first section of the JW book, Reasoning from the Scriptures, gives all sorts of recommendations for topics to talk about first, from the crime in your neighborhood to how we all want our children to be happy.3Reasoning from the Scriptures (Brooklyn, NY: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 1985), 10-11. (Sounds like a great opportunity to get to know your JW neighbors!)
Getting Started
Jehovah’s Witnesses will ease themselves into the conversation by getting to know you. You should do the same thing! Just like Paul did in Acts 17, aim for common ground. Ask them how long they’ve been outside, and if it’s hot, offer them a glass of water. Take an interest in who they are. This will likely catch them off-guard since many times either no one answers the door or, if the door is answered, it’s quickly closed in their faces. Rude…don’t be that person.
So, what should you say when they start presenting their “Good News?” Nothing…at first. The first thing you should do is listen closely to what they have to say. Take note of any Scripture they cite. If it seems like the conversation is going somewhere, offer them a chair and sit with them. This is your opportunity to show them that not all Christians are hostile toward JWs. They may have never met someone like that. This is your chance to be the light. If they give you a copy of The Watchtower Magazine or Awake!, it would be gracious to accept it (but you don’t have to keep it forever).
The number one thing NOT to do
Once you’ve heard what they have to say, you may want to take a moment to think about how you will respond. One thing you should NOT do is tell them that they belong to a cult or that their worldview is built on heresies. They will leave faster than you can say “Charles Taze Russell.”Whatever you do, don't just blurt out that they belong to a cult or that their worldview is built on heresies. They'll leave faster than you can say 'Charles Taze Russell.' Share on X
Not only will they leave, but your particular house will be basically “blacklisted” for the next several months or even years. While that might sound appealing to you, remember, we should not treat ministry like some people treat jury duty. This is not something we are trying to weasel out of (though I’m still not sure why some people don’t want to be on a jury!). Being a missionary to the people whom God has put in our lives is part of being a Christian! Your goal is for them to want to come back and talk further. Search your heart. If your goal is to “trigger” them so that they never want to come back, maybe talk to the Lord about that…
What SHOULD we do?
What I want to do here is give you some ideas about how to respond to a few of the key things they are likely to bring up. This way, you can practice a little beforehand, and you’ll be prepared when the conversation happens. (And, we’ll give you hints on things that will stop the conversation and get your house blacklisted, which again, is not the goal.)
This article really covers two different phases: the relationship-building stage and the established relationship stage.
Phase 1: JWs at your Front Door
During the first stage, you should be extra careful not to come on too strong or try to “evangelize” them too quickly. They won’t come back. Don’t start talking about the Trinity in your first conversation. My friend and former JW, Cynthia, said that the word “Trinity” actually signals something called “thought-stopping” for JWs, and they’ll just stop listening to everything you say. It triggers them to silence. It also might cause your house to be effectively “blacklisted,” which means they won’t be coming back to your house any time soon. (That’s not to say they will never come back, but it will most certainly be months or even years before they do.) That’s not what you want if you’re going to try to reach them. Instead, save topics like the Trinity and deity of Christ for later conversations, when you have an established relationship.Why is saying 'Trinity' not a good idea at the first meeting with a Jehovah's Witness? Share on X
Cynthia said that one thing they are taught is that they are the teachers, so if the person they are talking with seems to be trying to teach them, they are likely to walk away from the conversation and not come back. In other words, tread lightly, go slowly, be patient, and be a student.
So, what should you talk about at your doorstep? Cynthia suggested that front-door topics be something that gets the JW thinking. Here’s why. Have you ever had a pebble in your shoe? It’s subtle, and it might not even bother you enough to take your shoe off to get it out at first, but eventually, you’ve had enough, and you need to get it out. Be the pebble in their shoe. For example:
• Ask them how they know that the Watch Tower Society teaches the truth. Ask them what steps they took to determine if the Watch Tower Society was telling the truth. Listen to what they say. They likely have not done any independent research into their own religion. This isn’t a question designed to trap them, but a question to get them thinking about why they believe what they believe, which I think all believers of anything should do.
• You could also ask them what it means to call their organization “the truth.” You could then ask them to read John 14:6 where Jesus says that He is the way, the truth, and the life. Ask them what they think this verse means. If Jesus is truth, how could an organization created by a man (Charles Taze Russell) be truth?
• Ask them when their church was founded. Ask them if God was without a witness before the start of their church because they claim that they are the only true witnesses of Jehovah. If He was without a witness for thousands of years, did God truly care for His people?
Front door conversations are likely going to be pretty short, so quick questions like the ones I mentioned above would be appropriate. Often, it is good to schedule a follow up meeting, which will give you time to research anything that they said that made you go “hmmm…” But, what about when you have known the JW for a long time?
Phase 2: The Established Relationship
Once you have an established relationship with a Jehovah’s Witness (I’m not talking about just a few conversations, but several), you can start to venture into deeper territory. (Remember, if you start addressing the deity of Jesus and the Trinity too soon, you will lose them, and they won’t come back, and our goal as missionaries isn’t to scare them off!)
Think of it this way: you normally don’t talk about religion and politics on the first (or even second or third) time meeting someone, do you? Why do you think those topics come up so regularly at Thanksgiving dinner, when the family all gets together? It’s because relationship and (ideally) mutual love and respect are common prerequisites for those types of conversations. Those kinds of conversations are like the “deep end” of a pool. You wouldn’t throw a child into the deep end if they have never learned how to swim, right? No, first, you give them floaties and let them wade in the shallow end. Then, you guide them into the deeper end of the pool, slowly and cautiously. As they begin to understand how swimming works and have a healthy respect for water, they gain more confidence and trust. Then, and only then, will they begin to swim on their own.
So, when you have a JW at your door, it’s like your opportunity to give them floaties. Take it slow. Once you trust each other and have a solid relationship, then you can begin to talk about the topics below. If you’re there, and you’re ready, well, shoot… let’s dive in and talk about Jesus!
Jesus. Remember, not all concepts of “Jesus” are created equal. Do not assume that when you say “Jesus” and when they say “Jesus,” you are referring to the same person.Remember, not all concepts of 'Jesus' are created equal. Do not assume that when you say 'Jesus' and when they say 'Jesus,' you are referring to the same person. Share on X The JW version of Jesus is very different from that of mainstream Christianity. This is where clarifying terms can be helpful. Make sure you know who they are talking about. Ask questions. You may remember this from my previous articles, but keep in mind that they do not believe in the Trinity, and they do not believe that Jesus is God. When you ask questions, be prepared for answers like these:
• Jesus is just another created being (Michael the Archangel, to be more specific). Jehovah’s Witnesses might tell you that Jesus is not God. They may not directly come out and say that Jesus was Michael, so be prepared if they don’t. They will likely use Scripture to support their views (such as, Colossians 1:16 and John 14:28). Remember, JWs use their own version of the Bible, called the New World Translation. Be on the lookout for language that demotes Jesus from the Godhead. In my last article, we tackled Colossians 1:16, so I won’t address it here, but let’s talk about John 14:28. John 14:28 says, “the Father is greater than I,” something that makes JWs believe that Jesus is less than the Father. Don’t fall for this!
o Response: Ask them what they think the context is for Jesus making this statement. Ask them if you can read Philippians 2:2-6 together. In this passage, Jesus talks about how he took upon the form of a servant but was also in the form of God. See if they understand the implications (i.e., He was God, but He was serving). Ask them if you could also read Hebrews 2:9 together. This passage describes how Christ was made lower than the angels but now crowned with glory so that He could usher in God’s grace through His death and resurrection. Discuss the implications of Hebrews 2:9 (i.e., Jesus is God who became flesh so that He could serve us by dying on the cross and rising again). Both of these passages should help explain that Jesus, God the Son, is not lower than God but is God.
• Jesus only had “divine qualities” but was not himself divine. This is where it’s helpful to know what their Bible says (New World Translation or NWT) versus other Bible versions. Colossians 2:9 in the NWT says, “It is in him that all the fullness of the divine quality dwells bodily.” My Bible, which is the New American Standard, says, “For in Him all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form.” See how those two verses say something different? In the NWT, “divine quality” replaces the word “Deity.” The text has been changed in the NWT because Jehovah’s Witnesses do not want it to appear like Jesus is God, but that he simply had “godlike qualities.”4For an excellent and thorough discussion on this point, see Ron Rhodes, Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah’s Witnesses (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 2009), 79-81.
• Jesus is only partially sufficient for salvation. According to JWs, salvation is only available through works and faith in Christ is not enough for salvation. They will agree that the Bible says eternal life is a gift from God through Jesus Christ (which is consistent with Ephesians 2:8-9). So how can it be both a free gift and based on works? It seems like they are speaking through two sides of their mouth. For JWs, salvation is a gift, but works are required, as well.
Ron Rhodes explains, “Bordering on playing semantics games, Jehovah’s Witnesses affirm that while good works do not earn salvation, they are nevertheless prerequisites for salvation.”5Ron Rhodes, Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah’s Witnesses (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 2009), 283. One might think of it like applying for a scholarship. Applying for a scholarship doesn’t earn you a scholarship, but it is a prerequisite for the scholarship. The scholarship is a free gift, but to receive it, one must do certain things to become eligible.
o Response: First, ask them what they believe. Tell them that almost 200 times in the New Testament, salvation is given through faith alone.6Ron Rhodes, Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah’s Witnesses (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 2009), 293. You could share Acts 16:31, John 11:25, Titus 3:5, and Galatians 2:16. After reading these verses with them, ask them if this sounds like what they know about salvation.
o Response #2: Ask them if they know the difference between salvation and sanctification? Let them know that you believe that good works are a part of who we are as Christians, but that those works are not required for salvation. Rather, these works are part of sanctification, where we are made increasingly into God’s likeness. Yes, we should do good works because we are followers of Christ, but faith alone is what saves us. Our good works are an outpouring of who we are in Christ.
The Trinity. We talked extensively about what Christians believe about the Trinity here, and we briefly covered what JWs believe here. For this topic, it’s particularly important that you study up because Jehovah’s Witnesses are thoroughly trained on how to respond to this issue. Be warned, though—this topic can be exceptionally tough because it is something that is difficult to explain, even for Christians. When we covered the Trinity in our article about Christianity, I wrote about all of the dangers of our attempts to illustrate the Trinity with analogies (which typically lead to heresies like modalism, which is what Jehovah’s Witnesses tend to think all Christians succumb to when teaching about the Trinity). In other words, you’ll want to be careful when tackling this tricky issue. And again, do not bring this up until you have sufficiently established a trusting relationship!
• The word “Trinity” is not in the Bible. This one is a pretty common argument against the Trinity by Jehovah’s Witnesses. While this is technically true (the word is never mentioned), the concept of the trinity is well established, as we’ll explain below. The JW might bolster their argument by also noting that the word “Trinity” was developed gradually over centuries and first fully revealed in the 4th Century, and they’ll use the New Encyclopedia Britannica and other sources to support their claims.7Reasoning from the Scriptures (Brooklyn, NY: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, 1985), 405.
o Response: If we are ignoring things that aren’t explicitly stated in the Bible, you can respond by mentioning that the word “Jehovah” is not in the original text, either. In fact, it doesn’t appear till the 16th century. It’s a made-up word because scribes were careful to never speak the name of the Lord. To prevent the accidental saying of God’s name (Yahweh – which looked like YHWH) out loud, they added the vowels from Adonai in between the consonants of Yahweh, and…well, just watch this short little video. It’s probably easier to watch it rather than to have me try to explain it here.
Ask your JW friend if they know that the Encyclopedia also states that Jehovah is a made-up word. Citing the Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, the Encyclopedia says, “[The word Jehovah] is erroneous, since it took the vowels of adonai (‘my lord’) which were inserted into printed or written texts to prevent any attempt to pronounce the name of God.”
• The Trinity is pagan. Jehovah’s Witnesses might also tell you that the Trinity is a pagan concept.
o Response: It’s important to point out to them that the pagans were polytheists not monotheists, which means that they believed in several distinct gods.8Ron Rhodes, Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah’s Witnesses (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 2009), 222. Clarify that Christians believe in one God with three persons.
o Counter-Objection: They will probably tell you, “That’s confusing, and God would not want to confuse anyone.”
o Counter-Response #1: It is always preferred to use the JW’s own material to answer their objections. So, in this case, cite the Watch Tower Society’s material. According to Reasoning from the Scriptures, the incomprehensibility of God’s eternal nature is defended by saying “Our minds cannot fully comprehend it. But that is not sound reason for rejecting it” (emphasis added).9Reasoning from the Scriptures (Brooklyn, NY: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, 1985), 148. Ask them why the same logic shouldn’t be applied to the incomprehensibility of the Trinity? (You can further cite to Romans 11:33, Isaiah 55:8-9, and 1 Corinthians 13:12, which allude to the fact that we won’t understand everything all the time.)
o Counter-Response #2: Ask them if we can reasonably expect to understand everything about God? If they say anything remotely close to a “yes,” again cite from Reasoning from the Scriptures: “Should we really expect to understand everything about a Person who is so great that He could bring into existence the universe, with all its intricate design and stupendous size?”10Reasoning from the Scriptures (Brooklyn, NY: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, 1985), 149. According to their own material, we should not expect to understand all the ways of God, and not understanding something is not grounds for rejecting it.
Eschatology. JWs believe that only 144,000 people get to Heaven (the “anointed class” or “little flock”), and that those people were already determined by 1935.11“Have No Fear, Little Flock,” https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1995124#h=1:0-12:1082 (last accessed Sept. 30, 2018). This is also a bit more complex than it seems. In 2007, the Watch Tower Society issued a response to a reader, noting, “As time has gone by, some Christians baptized after 1935 have had witness borne to them that they have the heavenly hope. (Romans 8:16, 17) Thus, it appears that we cannot set a specific date for when the calling of Christians to the heavenly hope ends.” [https://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/w20070501/Questions-From-Readers/] In other words, even though many in the church still hold to the 1935 cutoff date, there is an opening for others to be added to the “little flock.” Any other true believer (a JW) is part of the “great multitude” or “other flock,” and will live in earthly paradise for all of eternity.
• The “anointed class” is limited to 144,000. When you talk about the anointed class, ask the Jehovah’s Witness if there is anywhere in the Bible where Heaven is explicitly limited to just 144,000. They will likely respond with Revelation 7 and 14 (which both talk about 144,000 people), but they won’t be able to show you a verse that specifically limits those who go to heaven to just 144,000.
o Response #1: You could also read 1 John 5:1 to them, which says, “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God.” The word “everyone” would seem to include not just 144,000. Other verses that talk about all who believe (not just the 144,000) include Ephesians 2:19, Galatians 3:29, James 2:5, and John 12:26.
o Response #2: Another interesting question you could ask is whether the anointed class (the 144,000) includes women. They will likely say yes, but then point out that Revelation 14:4 clearly states that the 144,000 are “men who have not been defiled by women.” That seems to indicate that women are not included in the 144,000 mentioned in Scripture.
o Response #3: Ask them to read John 10:16. Jesus says, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” (Here, Jesus is referring to the Gentiles that he is going to bring into the fold.) He continues, “They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” If we are one flock with one shepherd, why would we be divided in eternity?
New Light. New light is how Jehovah’s Witnesses explain changes in the Watch Tower Society’s views…claiming that the “light gets brighter” in order to justify the changes. There’s a pretty good explanation of it in this 16-minute video from Witness for Jesus, an organization created to help JWs and former-JWs think more deeply about the Bible.
o Response: Ask the JWs at your door about John 8:12, which says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’” Ask them how an organization can claim to have new light when Jesus is the light of the world. Truth doesn’t change.
So, what’s the bottom line?
If you choose to open the door when Jehovah’s Witnesses knock, here’s your list of priorities:
1. Be kind. JWs are taught that Christians are hostile towards them and they interpret rudeness or hostility as proof that they are being persecuted for God. Find common ground, and don’t degrade or belittle them. Instead, find a way to share the truth with them with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).
2. Be prepared. Keep any Watchtower or Reasoning from the Scriptures material available and highlighted for easy finding. In fact, why not have a copy of this article on a shelf next to the door, just in case? Understand a bit of their church’s history, as well as the basics of their beliefs. Even if you are using this knowledge to ask questions, it’s wise to know where they are coming from.
3. Be patient. Don’t aim for a full expose on JW heresy on the first visit. The goal is a second visit! Do not expect that every conversation you have will result in a conversion, either. My friend, Chris, once told me that we’re aiming to plant seeds, not weeds. What you say may have an impact, but you may not see it come to fruition during your time with them. That’s why it’s essential that you’re prepared to engage in a fruitful dialogue instead of a judgmental diatribe. You may only get one shot to plant a seed, and you really don’t want to miss out on that opportunity.
For further reading, I definitely recommend Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah’s Witnesses by Ron Rhodes (there’s a revised 2009 edition available). It’s a thorough book that walks through the key theological issues that may come up in your conversations with Jehovah’s Witnesses. It’s also accessible in the sense that you don’t have to have a theology degree to understand it.
You may also want to read the Watch Tower Society’s book, Reasoning from the Scriptures, to get a better idea of how Jehovah’s Witnesses prepare to engage in conversations and what they are taught. There is also detailed information about their beliefs on their Website at www.JW.org.
Thank you to former Jehovah’s Witness, Cynthia Velasco Hampton, for reading my JW articles to ensure that what they contained was accurate. Your insight has been invaluable.
Lindsey Medenwaldt es una estudiante incansable, por lo que, además de su máster en Apologética y Ética por el Seminario de Denver, cuenta con un título de Derecho y un máster en Administración Pública. Anteriormente, ocupó los cargos de directora ejecutiva y directora de operaciones de Mama Bear. Su libro,*Bridge-Building Apologetics*, se publicó en 2024 (Harvest House).
Love your article. Wish I had read this before they stopped by my house this past weekend. They stopped by to ” Evangelize” and whiles they were ministering to me the Holy Spirit revealed to me Through the word of knowledge that one of them had a family member suffering from cancer. I asked him and he confirmed it. God asked me to pray for him and was horrified when they objected because they did not believe that Jesus is lord and they also did not believe in praying in public. I pray that God will open the eyes of their understanding.
Hello Peter! Thanks for reading and for leaving a comment. What a blessing that you were able to pray for one of their family members, even if it seemed like they were not grateful for the gesture. I bet that action planted a seed. Like I have said before, you may not see the fruits of your labor, but seeds are still so very valuable. Blessings to you! -Lindsey
Jesus certainly is not God and the Trinity certainly is not well established in the scriptures. Infact the first appearance of the term or idea was in 5the late 3rd century when pagan Roman ruler Constantine pushed the idea in a compromise of religious sects to form the Roman Catholic Church. Keep in mind Roman Catholic Church shows it’s dominance is Roman politics. The same rulers responsible for Christ death. None of this religion of the Roman Catholic Church originated with Jesus or his apostles although they claim otherwise. Look no further than the homosexual and pedophile priest who run the organization. Jesus said, by their fruits you will know them
I grew up beside a family of JW’s. They never pressured or preached to us.
They were always there when we had family emergencies. My parents never worried about us when we played with their children. If you look up DEFINITION of CULT, it doesnt fit JW’s.
So many things that the world does today is steeped in pagan beliefs.
The bible does say, Be no part of the World and my people will be hated as my Son was has on account of my name.
Most people dont care for the belief of JW’s because they dont go along with traditions that are man made.
Ive researched on my own for years what they and other faiths teach.
I found that they do and live and teach, all comes from the Bible, not man made or taught.
They follow the example Jesus set, that his father sent him here to do.
They strive to live clean away from lies, trickery with words and justifying wrong doing.
Who would want to be a JW?
It would not be a easy life in todays world, would it?
How hard must it be to go to a strangers house to
talk about God?
Geez, I would rather dig ditches.
I ask my friend, wouldnt you rather sleep in on Saturdays? He said , YES! I would but God and his Son ask us to go just as Jesus walked everywhere and speak to peope.
Look how Jesus and appstles were treated…. arent JW’s treated ghe same?
People make up stories and even lie on them.
They hurt no one, they dont try to stop others from their beliefs.
They are treated rudly and even shoved at peoples door, but they keep going.
Why? What drives them?
What benefit do they get, personally?
Their spare time, gas, weekends, why not sleep in or cookout?
I think they are very kind and driven people.
Reading your article and commenting, its made me want to atted a Hall and find what drives these people and I need to be kinder, patient and find some peace that they seem to have..
Thankyou
Hello Josie,
Thanks for reading and for submitting a comment. We do not deny that JWs may be kind and thoughtful. Indeed, in my interactions with them, they have always been nice to me. That said, niceness doesn’t have any bearing on whether a worldview is true. The intent of our articles about the JWs is not to attack them (we have even discussed things we can learn from them, like piety and evangelism), but to compare what they teach with the Bible and Christianity. For example, JWs do not believe that Jesus was God in human form (a fundamental Christian belief), and they reject the idea of the Trinity (another fundamental Christian belief), too. JWs also reject all translations of the Bible except for their own (the NWT). Again, I’m not saying that JWs aren’t kind or generous, but their worldview is something that should be looked at because their truth claims do not often line up with the Bible. Thank you, again, for commenting, Josie. I appreciate that you took the time to do so.
Blessings, Lindsey
P.S. If you haven’t read my first article on the JWs (https://mamabearapologetics.com/what-jehovahs-witnesses-believe/), or the Q and A I shared about their worldview (https://mamabearapologetics.com/jehovahs-witnesses-questions-and-answers/), I encourage you to take a look at them as they may help clarify some things for you.
Hi Josie, I appreciate your comments and I know that many, many JWs are very nice people. After all, I had been one too. My mom started taking me to the Kingdom Hall when I was 13 when she started studying, and I got baptized at 16. I left when I was 24. I considered myself to be a nice, caring person. (And I still am! J) My mother was always nice to her neighbors too and the kind of person who would bring you soup if you were sick.
I am not sure what your definition of a cult is. Some people believe in a definition that only applies to those who are sequestered inside a compound or commune. Certainly the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints (Polygamous Mormons) do fit this definition. Other cults allow their members to live normally, but they monitor their members very closely and have them coming to their meetings nearly every day and require reports from them. I believe that the JWs still have to turn in reports on how much time they have spent in their preaching work. This determines whether or not a person is considered active or inactive.
Here are some of the signs of a cult: (as defined by the BITE Model; Source: Steven Hassan, freedomofmind.com)
Behavior Control: Clothing styles, as one is dictated what one can wear to meetings, restrictive or makes one feel guilt over leisure activities, rather than spending more time in service to the organization; also dictates the type of medication treatment one can have (with JWs, no blood); also demands complete obedience to the group’s rules.
Information Control: Forbidding from speaking with former members, forbids access to information that is critical of the group, members are required to report their thoughts, feelings, and activities to their elders/superiors; encourages other members to spy and report on others’ misconduct.
Thought Control: Black and white thinking, an “us against them” and “good vs. evil” mentality, teaches members to use thought stopping techniques so that they do not think critical thoughts about the organization, uses loaded language to confirm their indoctrination. (I am “in the truth”)
Emotional Control: Irrational fears about leaving or questioning the group. (such as thoughts of dying in Armageddon). Showers new recruits with love and praise, but if a member leaves, they are shunned. Teaches that there is no happiness outside the organization. Labels doubt as a sin and labels some emotions as evil, worldly, and wrong.
Certainly people have the freedom to join any kind of group they want, but there should be freedom to leave the group without repercussions. One should be able to leave and attend another church without being labeled as an “apostate” and warning other members to shun and avoid that person at all costs. Families should not be forced to shun their daughters, sons, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, just because they decide they no longer believe in the organization’s teachings. Is that what Jesus taught His followers to do?
You mentioned how JWs avoid pagan beliefs. So why do JWs still use the calendar with all the pagan gods named for the months, as well as the pagan gods named for the days of the week? Why do they use wedding rings? Wedding rings definitely came from pagan beliefs.
You also mentioned that you have done your own research. Can you please tell me what books you have read regarding what other faiths teach?
Dear Cynthia, tell the truth you were looking to leave the truth. You wanted to find fault and you think you found it. The apostle Paul under inspiration from God said to remove the wicked man from the congregation in 1Corinthians so it is approved by God. Would you let a pervert stay in your congregation. Bad apple spoils the barrel or have you never heard that. As far as the months on the calendar being Pagan as well as the days of the week should JWs ask governments and businesses to change the names for their sake? Did you know that steeples and doors to churches are representing the male and female organs it goes back to ancient sex worship. You will not see that at a Kingdom Hall of JWs So I will say to you as I have said to the authors of this Web site do your homework.
Enjoyed your comments. I read the article as well. I’m a Christian JW. Traditional Christianity in America is fizzling out big time. While the over 8 million JW worldwide are active ministers, a formidable force. In the decades I’ve been a witness, my own personal experience I’ve witnessed my children reap the wholesome rewards of the Bible’s teachings. Unlike the churches snd mosques I visited prior to becoming a JW I’ve found our groups focus is on Bible education (John17:3) not money. I would say there’s nothing perfect in this world. No group or organization. But I will say from my personal experience, that the Bible education program has helped my relationship with God and my fellow man.
I highly recommend you to look up the validity of the NWT translation. It was quite a shock for me personally.
Congratulations on truly getting to know this family. If more people would do just that, they could see their elevated way of life and worldwide brotherhood are rare indeed.
Hello I love your writings i find it to be true really.. and i have a question.. would it be okey. I am a german and many of my kind dont read English so i was wondering if i could translate some of your writings about jehovah witnesses. Because the need to read thise..
You and your husband have not done your homework. I have no problem explaining my beliefs to anyone. Any time you want to talk, let me know, from holidays to Russell to Trinity whatever.
Hi Eric, Thanks for taking the time to read and respond. Can you please let me know what you think I’ve gotten incorrect? I use a wide variety of resources, and I want to be sure to have accurate information, which is why I discuss what I write with current and former members before I publish information about any particular religion. Thank you, Lindsey
Many things you are teaching are wrong. You mentioned John 14:28 that we witnesses use. It is clear what is intended. So lets back up a little, and lets use the KJ version- John 14:24 “He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me”. Does that sound like they are equals, hardly. Here’s one that is used, but many find difficult to answer. If Jesus, is part of a God head, how is it, he said this: Matt:24:36 This time we will use The bible in living english. “But as to that day and hour nobody knows, not even the angels of heaven nor the son, but the Father alone”. The trinity became more widely used after the last of the apostles died. But, even in the 4th century there was a large meeting of those who were considered experts in scripture and they VOTED. It was a split decision and those who believe in the Trinity won. However, just because you are in the minority does not mean you are wrong. Think, about this, how many made it alive in Noah’s day 8. How many in Sodom and Gomorrah 3. So, you say, what about it? Well what did Jesus say about our day look at Matt: 7:13,14 Use any version you like. So, when so called experts, say that being Christian and believing in Jesus will lead to life they missed this scripture. Matt7:21-23. Jesus would not have said it if not true. Note these so called christians perform many works yet Jesus rejects them. Why, because they have their own form of what they consider truth, just like the Jews, in Jesus day. Tradition, instead of God’s word. If you go to war for the nations, you are on Satan’s side. If you celebrate so called christian holidays, you are celebrating what the demons want you to do. If you teach that a God of love would burn others in Hades for eternity then you are teaching what is in Satan’s heart. Oh, and by the way, how long in Jesus day was christian beliefs established? You could make the case that they were new. Where the Jewish religion has been around for over 1500 years. So, that argument is weak. Their are many other things to discuss, I believe you, at face value, that you are sincere. However, your response will be telling.
Hi Eric
I very much appreciate your willingness to discuss these matters. I have had conversations with quite a few Witnesses (who all seemed very pleasant and kind to me). However my personal experience with Witnesses has been that they are not always happy to discuss topics like the trinity for long, although I would very much like to. I’d love to correspond with you about some of the subjects that we differ on if you’re willing? Thanks
Thanks for the article, information, and view points gleaned from your personal experience and others around you with direct experience or “emersion”. Opening your door to anyone who has the guts to knock on it and share what they believe about whoever, or whatever they serve and worship as their idea of a supreme being, is I think, a courtesy anyone that claims to know God through Jesus Christ and allows the Holy Sprit to indwell them should welcome as a “sharing” opportunity. As Scripture teaches, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
Thanks for reading and commenting, Timothy. I agree with your sentiment about 1 Peter 3:15 and how opening our doors is a Christian thing to do. Blessings to you during this holiday season. -Lindsey
There are so many things that you can share with people that will give them hope in this world rather than discussing JW. God is the judge because he looks into the heart if their intentions are good God will reward them. We shouldn’t mislead people because we want to win the argument or conversation, the aim is to share the word of God with people,and I don’t think God is angry when someone changes their life because we talked to them. We help people change their lives. There are so many who can witness that.
Martha,Nathaniel,Peter,John the Baptist,Paul,Mark,John,Demon possessed man,Unclean spirits,Legion,Demons,Satan,Army officer,Gabriel,Jesus, and God all said that Jesus was God’s son.
That seems crystal clear to me. So is it not reasonable to conclude that any scriptures that might appear to indicate to that Jesus is God and not the actual Son of God like all of these eyewitnesses testified must be viewed through this lens first?
Dear craig, You seem sincere, the reason witnesses do not wish to discuss the topic or topics you pick, is they consider it a waste of time. In these last days we are trying to find sheep like ones who realize that Jehovah is The God, that he would not send people to burn eternally in Hades, because he is a God of love. That his son Jesus, gave his perfect life to ransom mankind and give them the opportunity to live forever on earth as purposed in the beginning. The scriptures show clearly, that the earth was formed to be inhabited by man forever. Jehovah is the kind of God who does not make plans, he purposes, and he will not change his purpose for man or what the Devil may try to do. The whole world is controlled by Satan and Jesus knows this. So, you had people claiming to be Christian during the 2 world wars, killing each other, even though they were of the same religion. That is why Jesus said narrow is the gate to life and few are finding it. Most christian’s practice (over 90 percent) a lip service to Jehovah, they do not even know the basics. His name (Lord’s prayer) Hallowed be thy name, first thing mentioned. That Jesus said many times, that he came and does what the Father wants, not of his own accord. Matt. 7:21-23 “Not everyone saying to me Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, BUT THE ONE DOING THE WILL OF MY FATHER WHO IS IN THE HEAVENS WILL. So your may think your christian but as the scriptures continues it explains: I NEVER NEW YOU, GET AWAY FROM ME, YOU WORKERS OF LAWLESSNESS. When you lie, cheat, steal, fornicate, go to war and kill your brothers, don’t pay your taxes, celebrate demonic holidays, take part in political events, etc. etc. You show you are part of the world and in John’s letters, he made it clear you are an enemy of God. That is why many are going to lose their lives, their worship is in vain, they believe the lies of this world and what their ministers have taught them. NOT WHAT IS IN THE BIBLE AND WHAT JEHOVAH WANTS, AND SURPRISE WHAT JESUS WANTS. But, you have been taught this way and its truth to you. Wish you the best and everlasting happiness, Eric
Hi, Are u a sis or bro? Umm maybe not use capital letters, its kinda rude…
Thanks
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe they are “truth?” The truth is that they are a dangerous cult that destroys families. And like most cults they look down and highly frown upon higher education because higher education teaches critical thinking and logical reasoning and JW doesn’t stand up to either.
If you know anything about a cult. It’s easy to get in and hard to get out. To be a Jehovah’s Witness it’s hard to get in and easy to get out. For someone like you with higher education we would expect a more reasoned response.
Thank you so much for this information! I’ve always found the JW religion quite interesting. I’ve been reading the book Kingdom of the Cults by Walter Martin and have found the start of the JW religion and their ‘pastor’ Charles T Russell very interesting. So many questions have come up that I would really like to know if JW know this early history and or what made them join JW? I’m still getting through all of the resources you’ve provided but appreciate all the research you have done!! Thank you!
Umm You may want to put more effort to study the bible cause’ Jesus is not the “GOD” But the Son of god.
Umm You may want to put more effort to study the bible cause’ Jesus is not the “GOD” But the Son of god. And Jesus is the “King of all angels”.
Thank you, Izac
“If Jehovah Witnesses are trained on, how to talk to us, shouldn’t the same rule apply to and for us as well?”
We should be equally equipped and well prepared, as well
The tip of “take an interest in who they are” really rubbed me the wrong way. Pretending to be interested in someone just to manipulate them to believe what you do is just gross. If you feel the need to answer the door because otherwise apparently it sends a bad message to your kids, surely this is not better. You cannot choose to have an interest and have it be genuine. In the same way, you cannot choose to believe in something or forgive someone and have it be genuine, either you do or don’t.
Brilliant! I would only add, salvation is through grace, faith, baptism, and obedience to Christ. Not through faith alone.
There are not “200 references” to faith alone in the Bible- the only place “faith” and “alone” are used together is James 2:24.
James 2:24, New American Standard Bible “24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone”
Am a JW. Read only the first part, and could easily give good answers. I scanned the rest. I can guarantee that you will not convert me.
Either the person trying to change JWs, will themselves change and become JWs, or they will lose patience and stop. Non JWs get motivated to “preach” like us, and then lose patience.
If this does work with a JW, they must be new, spiritually weak, or looking for an excuse to leave, because they don’t have the dedication. I will add that this is a distorted picture of who we are because of the author’s ex JW friend misleading her.
How come none of Charles Taze Russel’s prophecies on the end of the world came true?
LOL THIS IS AMAZING! You are encouraging people to have conversations with them.
All this will do is bring many more people into the truth when they realize that most of your “insights” in here are false and don’t make sense.
All the name Jehovah is, is the ENGLISH interpretation. Just as anyone’s name would be. Take my name for example. It is pronounced and spelled one way in English and it changes depending on the language.
My friend Jorge is pronounced “hore hey”. In English it is George
And in another language it is “Gorgy” (Goergey).
Also, scholars not saying the name? What kind of nonsense is that?
Wether or not they did or not doesn’t matter. The consents that make Gods name is how it is written in that language. So in order to interpret it to others they had to translate it.
ALSO Jehovahs name appears 7000 times. He told people to use his name. His apostle and disciples and prophets called him by his name ALL THE TIME.
I feel bad for anyone using your nonsense tactics because if they get an experienced witness they will be blown out of the water and possibly learn what the bible really teaches.
Please feel free to email me.
Well, how come none of Charles Taze Russell’s prophecies about the end of the world came true? Hardly enough evidence to “blow me out of the water” over to your silly cult.
Please understand that a cult is easy to join, but difficult to leave. With Jehovah’s Witnesses it’s hard to become one and easy to leave. Please do your homework and speak truthfully.
Smitty,
Just to keep it real, none of the prophecies by the NT authors regarding Jesus soon return came true either….
After 2,000 years and those failed prophecies, their is no meaningful basis for an apocalyptic eschatology.
I recommend reading “Crisis of Conscience” by Raymond Franz, I’m sure you have heard of it:
Former member of the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Raymond Franz delivers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Watch Tower Society. In response to extraordinary events, Franz tells a unique account of the decision-making sessions of this religion’s inner council and the powerful, sometimes dramatic, impact their decisions have on Jehovah’s Witnesses. Crisis of Conscience offers a penetrating view of the supreme council of this organization, the Governing Body and their life altering power over human lives.
While the events of Raymond Franz’s departure from the Governing Body occurred in 1980, the organizational foundation and structure remains the same today, making this account relevant to a whole new generation.
Content: Raymond Franz, formerly a Governing Body member of Jehovah’s Witnesses, shares an account that reveals the inner workings and the decision-making processes of that Body, offering a penetrating view of the life altering power they have over human lives. The final nine of his sixty years as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses were spent on this central executive council. Those years led to his crisis of conscience, which is the theme of this book.
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0999499211/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_3?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)
I am left with more questions but no answers…I was just about to join the JWS
You are not speaking the truth. Smitty or you did not do your home work which seems to be a problem for those you claim the witnesses are a cult. All brother Russell ever said is that the gentile times ended in 1914. And giving you the benefit of the doubt Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians in 607B.C.E. you count 2520years from that it puts you at 1914C.E. Which according to the Bible is the 7 times mentioned. Under the lunar calendar there were 360 days to a year. X7=2’520years. No Davidic King for that many years until God (Jehovah) put his enemies under his feat. Yes Jesus began ruling as King in Heaven in 1914 and as Revelation Explains and Satan and his demons were tossed to the earth . How have things been since 1914? There is more hate and division in this world since that time and an honest hearted person would admit that. So there are over 20’000 different religions every one claiming to have the truth. But do they? What does the Bible say Look at Ephesians4:4-6 And what about what is spoken at Job 42:7 Also, Scott there are those who are not happy with their religion and find fault, does that mean the whole organization is wrong? I knew Raymond Franz and he liked attention . So again, do your homework. I like the fact you all criticize the Witnesses for being new, but do not answer why you celebrate Pagan holidays , Why You take part in the world’s politics, Why you go to war and kill for the nations, brothers of the same religion? You know who Hitler Hated as much as the Jews? Yes, Jehovah’s Witnesses. 5,000. Why because they stayed neutral? Your so called Christians religions have been killing each other for centuries. So who’s side was God on? You cannot answer because God’s Kingdom is no part of this world just as his son said. If you cannot see the logic here, then I, will pray for you. Satan has blinded the minds of most people in this world. One last thing, at Hebrews 12:1 It says (KJ) ….so great a cloud of witnesses…What people, look at chapter 11 From Abel to true Christians in the 1st century they were considered witnesses of the true religion. Lastly, look at Isaiah 43:10 What does it say? May Jehovah the God and Creator of the whole universe reveal the truth to you. If not, then look at 2 Thessalonians 2: 10-12 Be humble and listen for your everlasting good.
After reading the first 5 or 6 paragraphs, it became clear that you are a JW attempting to receive readers into thinking you are one of them.
No one has the right to force their love for God on anyone. Finding God is a personal experience and not one that you can force upon anyone else.
It is up to each individual to find peace, love , joy and God in their own way and on their own schedule. If God wanted you to force your beliefs on others, he would not have given us the power of choice.
Pranam
Thanks for commenting, Pranam. I assure you that I am not a JW. You are correct that the final decision rests with the individual. They need to choose to believe in God and salvation found through Christ. -Lindsey
When I was out looking for cans a few years ago there was one JW going house to house he offered to chat about Bible studys I should have accepted the offer next time if I go out on Saturday hopefully this year I’ll proudly accept the offer I want to talk about that I’m opened minded