Expert: Gordon Cook - 11/26/2007

Question
I have been studying with the jehovahs witnesses since i was a little over 12. But im personaly not sure wether Jehovahs Witnesses are correct but who knows right?
at my next bible study i am going to be asked why i am not flourishing in the Jehovahs Witnesses. I feel forced by my parents and my bible study teachers as well what teachings did you hear that lead you away from them?

Sincerely Chase

Answer
Although the JW's will say that the Bible is their authority, it is clear that the Watchtower organisation takes precedence over the Bible. Watchtower publications are their primary source of authority.
When JW's use the Bible they refer so to their own version the New World Translation. This NWT contains numerous unwarrante changes in the wording of key passages that reflect the interoretation of the Watchtowers leaders. Therefore how the leaders, Governing Body, interpret the Bible and NOT the Bible it self is the final authorityfor the JW's.
Charles Russell founder of the Watchtower called himself "Gods mouthpiece" and cliamed that compared to reading Watchtower publications, reading the Bible was "a waste of time"
According to the Watchtower all JW's "must adhere absolutely to the decisions and scriptural understanding of the organisation because God has given it aouthority over his people" (Wt 1/5/1972)
There is no scriptrul basis for a Christian to absolute adherence to any fallible organisation.
Any independant thinking or questioning is condemned by the WT thus you are locked into what they say.
Should we not follow what the Bible says "test the inspired expressions to see whether they originated with God" (1 John 4:1)