Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish. This week: Jehova's Witnesses.
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In the last episode we talked about what is a cult (how to identify a cult, etc.). If you missed that one, be sure and go and check that out. In today’s episode we will focus our attention on a group that claims to be the real Christians, but as we will show today the Jehovah’s Witnesses are not Christians.
The Jehovah’s Witnesses originated in the late 19th century with Charles Taze Russell, an American preacher deeply interested in Bible prophecy. Here’s a concise history of the organization:
Part I: The History
Origins and Founder:
- Charles Taze Russell (1852–1916): Russell was influenced by Adventist teachings, particularly their focus on Christ’s second coming. Disillusioned with mainstream Christianity, he began his own Bible study group in the 1870s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- 1870s The group now known as Jehovah’s Witnesses was initially called Bible Students or International Bible Students Association (IBSA) during its early years. This name reflected their focus on studying the Bible and disseminating their teachings.
- Publication of Zion’s Watch Tower (1879): Russell launched this magazine to spread his interpretations of the Bible, emphasizing end-time prophecies and the imminent return of Christ.
- Why was it called Watchtower?
- The name "Watchtower" comes from the Bible, where watchtowers were used as places to keep watch and warn of danger. In ancient times, people would stand in tall towers to look out for enemies or protect their vineyards from animals.
- Jehovah's Witnesses use the name Watchtower because they believe they are like spiritual watchmen. They think their job is to warn people about the coming of God’s Kingdom and the end of the current world system (what they call Armageddon). They see themselves as sounding the alarm and helping people prepare for what they believe is God’s judgment.
- The name also reflects their focus on being alert and vigilant about spreading their teachings, which they view as essential for saving others. The magazine The Watchtower became their main way to share these warnings and spread their message worldwide.
Formation of the Organization:
- Incorporation as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (1884): Russell formally organized his followers under this name, focusing on mass publication and distribution of literature.
- Today’s Stats and Organizational Structure
- 8.6 million members today (2023)
- Governing Body: A centralized leadership that claims exclusive authority in interpreting the Bible.
- Emphasis on door-to-door evangelism, distribution of "Watchtower" and "Awake!" magazines.
- Rutherford’s Leadership (1916–1942): After Russell’s death, Rutherford took control....
