Customer Reviews (1)

A Critical Analysis of Jehovah's Witnesses' New Testament
Company Watchtower boast of their Bible translation that it is a literal translation. But it is a fact that it is not konkordant where the company will present its dogmas. When they're not out of the way to add words. See Colossians 1: 15-17 NWT.

The Watch Tower Bible translators could not due to language. Hebrais, Aramaic and Greek. Is that why traslationskomite is secret?

Thanks for an interesting and professional presentation!

Greetings
Carl Andersen ... Read more

Product Description
This PowerPoint® presentation enables users to discover a clear, down-to-earth understanding about what Jehovahs Witnesses believe and how to witness to friends. The presentation includes 125 slides and extensive leader notes. Includes many photos. Compatible with Macintosh and PC. ... Read more

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Containing Report for the Service Year of 2006 ... Read more

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Contains: A letter from the Governing Body, Highlights of the past year, Worldwide Report-2005 Grand Totals, Acts of Jehovah's Witneshttp://media-service-na.amazon.com/media/M14O55N9NTZVOM+maxw=75+maxh=75?1202355959075uploadYourImageNowTinyses in modern times, Romainia, Zambia. ... Read more

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Charlotte Jennings is an inspiration. The behaviors she exhibits and the examples she sets are goals for us to attain.-Joan Bialk"Charlotte writes an inspiring story of her search for our Savior and His faithfulness to never leave us or forsake us. Hers is a story of stepping into the river for Jesus."-Paula Pelletier"She is called conqueror, encourager, intercessor, prayer warrior, Jesus follower, champion, believer, mighty woman of faith, difference maker, friend, aunt, great aunt, sister, great grandmother, grandmother, the park grandma, cherished wife, but I am honored and blessed to call her mom. I love you mom."-Joelle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Minister of Encouragement
This book shares an awesome testimony of the author's break through from false religion into a powerful relationship with Jesus Christ.The book is full of encouragement and hope for others who find themselves leaving any confused religion.The author's love for people has led to the birthing of her ministry of reaching people from similar background with a powerful word of encouragement.

title is misleading
From the title of this book, you would assume this is an account of the author's life in the world of Jehovah's Witnesses.

The book begins with her being disfellowshiped from the religion.From there the book deals with all her experiences with other religions, none of which make too much sense - very disjointed to read. ... Read more

Product Description
When smallpox vaccinations were required before entering school, A. McGinley's father held her arm down on the table and dropped acid on the upper part of it to painfully burn a hole in her arm. It needed to be deep enough to imitate a real smallpox vaccination. Her Mom comforted her and then took her to the attic to open boxes. They looked for school clothing. She liked being in the attic alone. It was a shelter and hiding place from her family, who were Jehovah's Witnesses. Mentally, she escaped to the attic to be alone when she had to attend services at the Kingdom Hall. She lived in two worlds. One world was home, the Kingdom Hall, and service.Her other world was school, the attic, and neighbors. There were great differences between these worlds, teaching her to think for herself when great conflicts arose between the two. Growing up in a family that included abuse, alcoholism and religious cult beliefs closed many doors, such as social freedom and college. School, the attic, and neighbors helped her to open some of those doors. Attic Alone tells the story of her journey from the bondage of false beliefs to a real Christian faith. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Truth of Growing Up JW
I could not put this book down from the very beginning. This true life story follows Arlene's pain of growing up as a Jehovas Witness in Allentown, Pa in the 50's. Raised by an abusive alcoholic father and a domineering grandmother who had both been deeply affected by the Jehova's Witness' indoctrination, Arlene would turn to her mother for an ally. But her own mother was also under his abusive thumb and Arlene would escape to the attic of her home to be alone. The Attic is where she would find shelter from the oppression of her family life. The biography chronicles the seeds of light planted by kind neighbors and outsiders that would eventually take root and blossom. It is a tale of a gradual awakening to the truth that would eventually set her free. Amazing read!!!

A Journey of Grace
This book starts off with a terrible scene.

A. McGinley tells the story of her large, imposing and abusive Jehovah's Witness father placing drops of acid on her arm.This was a common practice among the Jehovah's Witnesses in the 1940's as it was against their religion to receive smallpox vaccinations.The scar left behind from the acid burns on her arm would look like a scar from a smallpox vaccination.This imitation vaccination scar along with a falsified medical record was all that her father needed to get McGinley into grammar school since children who were not vaccinated against smallpox back in the 1940's were not allowed to attend school.

The physical pain that McGinley describes from this imitation smallpox vaccine is a fitting metaphor for the emotional and spiritual pain that she received from the imitation Gospel of the Jehovah's Witnesses.Just as I could imagine hearing her screaming in pain due to the acid burns while her Mother comforts her, I could also feel her emotional and spiritual pain that she recounts for us throughout the book as the imitation Gospel of the Jehovah's Witnesses is foisted upon her by her JW father and JW grandmother while her Mother comforts her as best she can.Throughout the book, the only other place she can go for comfort besides her Mother's embrace is the Attic of her home all alone which soon becomes the Attic of her soul.

However, while suffering due to the effects of the mind controlling and abusive nature of the Jehovah's Witnesses and the destruction they caused on her family, A. McGinley recounts the many rays of light that she experienced in her life.She walks us through the grace that God gives her as she makes her way home to the fullness of the Christian faith in the Catholic Church.From learning how to say the Lord's Prayer while in grammar school, which turns out to be the only prayer she can say for many years, to the altar call at the same Church which she saw through the hospital window during her son's illness, she recounts the amazing ways in which Our Lord called to her in her moments of need.

A. McGinley's book is truly a journey of grace and reminds us that while problems in this world may make us want to retreat into our "Attic Alone", that we really do have a friend in Christ who is with us at all times and at all places along our journey to heaven. ... Read more

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"One of the best approaches is to 'know the competition,' and in this regard Jason Evert's book will prove to be a useful tool in combating the Jehovah's Witnesses' mindset and doctrines. This work is intended for the 'average Catholic' who has no formal training in theology, and so it is designed to be easily understood and practical. Beginning with the foundations of the Watchtower organization, the author deals with its presidents and history, moves next through the basic structure and content of the Jehovah's Witness' world, and then discusses the various doctrines of the Watchtower and how to refute them. Particular attention is given to some 'favorite verses' and standard topics that a Witness will typically use in attacking the Catholic faith. Finally, some extremely helpful and practical suggestions are offered for how to interact with someone who has become a Jehovah's Witness.

"There are some good resources generally available for use in refuting the Watchtower's theology. But very few of them proceed from a specifically Catholic perspective, so invariably such resources will be helpful only to a point. Catholics need not be at a disadvantage, however. Since this book is written by a staff apologist at Catholic Answers, the reader can rest assured that its contents are faithful to the Church's teachings. It is time that Catholics begin to reclaim the spiritual ground lost to the Watchtower organization, and with the help of this book, I am confident that this goal is well within our reach."-Joel Peters, author, teacher, and authority on Jehovah's Witnesses ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Make sure you read this before they come a'knockin...
Wonderful, wonderful! Short, but hits all the major beliefs that separates Catholics and JWs with tons of scriptural evidence for the Catholic position. I have a very good friend who is a devout JW and from what I can gather, Jason does not set up straw men or misrepresent the JWs. He lays out what they ACTUALLY teach and then rebuts it.

Good read
Well laid out, walks the reader thru the background of the organization, their mode of operation and then point by point through the major points of contention.It is a pretty quick read.

Excellent refutation of JW claims
I purchased this book after having read several other books on the Jehovah's Witnesses.I liked this book the best.I am a former JW myself, having served as a pioneer (full-time door-to-door evangelizer), ministerial servant (deacon) and elder (minister).I can assure you that this book will particularily assist Catholics to refute the claims made by JW's against the Catholic Church (I converted to the Catholic Church in 2004) but also is helpful for Christians of all denominations. Many JW's are ex-Catholics, most of whom never really studied their faith or are really familiar with the history of Jehovah's Witnesses.It is likely that some Catholics have some JW's in their family or will have some in the near future.This book is especially helpful if a family member is thinking about leaving the Catholic Church and becoming a Jehovah's Witness.

An excellent source
If you wish you knew how to dialogue with Jehovah's Witnesses, but don't know what they believe or how to refute their claims, then this is the book for you! It answers questions like:

Should you believe in the Trinity?
Is Jesus Michael the Archangel?
Is Jesus God?
Is the Holly Spirit God?
Is God's name Jehovah?
Did Jesus die on a torture stake or a cross?
Did Christ's body rise?
Did Christ return already?
Who goes to heaven?
Is Hell real?
What about military service, blood transfusion, and holidays?

. . .and much, much more. Jason Evert's book is full of Scriptural references to back his arguments, and it points out the errors of the "New World Translation" in the chapter, "Can You Trust the 'New World Translation'?" The book is easy to navigate and read, and is packed with great information. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Door to Door Cult Exposed
Schnell delivers an outstanding sequel to his previous book: Thirty Years a Watchtower Slave. This book is a useful guide for anyone sharing the truth with Jehovah's Witnesses. The author provides a short history of the JW's and helps you learn how to refute their basic errors.

Chapters are on:

- How Russellism started
- Hell is not the grave
- Man has a soul
- Jesus is God
- Christianity and Cults
- and a great deal other material (205 pages).

This is a wonderful handbook in winning the JW's to the truth found in Christ. Buy it and assist the cultist to find forgiveness and freedom.
One Way to God: Christian Philosophy and Presuppositional Apologetics Examine World Religions ... Read more

Product Description
In the year 1950, a bold invitation was published:%u201CThe Watchtower invites careful and critical examination of its contents in the light of the Scriptures.%u201DIt is this call that forms the premise for the book, launching an investigation reminiscent of Indiana Jones%u2019 search for priceless artifacts; however, in this case, the author set on a quest for hidden or obscured Watchtower truths, which may have been camouflaged over time.The discoveries were nothing short of profound, and the reader should expect the unexpected!



This book presents a unique, objective comparison of Watchtower doctrine and biblical scripture, while highlighting the importance of discipleship (sharing one%u2019s faith with others).The author also introduces a revealing look at foundational teachings by the Watchtower that are not widely known to Jehovah%u2019s Witnesses today.As such, the material will appeal to Christians and non-Christians alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Is the Watchtower confusing your spirituality?
As you are following the path of our Spiritual Journey, you are faced with many forks in the road, called religion. You reach a point on that path where you choose to follow a certain religious institution for their seemingly expert witness and interpretation of the word of God.

And how do you decide who that expert witness is?

You seek a well established church that not only talks the talk but also uses the word of God as their anchor.

Thankfully, Cochise Pendleton has laid out a simple and straightforward comparison of the Bible and the Watchtower. Mr. Pendleton's Cliffs Notes about the Watchtower is a breath of fresh air to all. You are faced with a fork in the road and you can quickly examine the best way and make a decision.

The Eureka! moment occurs and you choose our path.

As an author The Eureka Solution: The Gift of Vision...who myself suggests what paths to take in life, Cochise Pendleton has taking an extraordinary complex institution and reveals it in a manner that is self-explanatory. The detailed references remove all bias and just give you the facts.

I embrace the dedication, passion and most importantly the moral courage of Cochise Pendleton to challenge the Watchtower in public and share his insights that only an Ex Jehovah Witness can experience and understand. Not only did he find Christ for himself, he is reaching out to current Jehovah Witnesses, Ex JW's and others still seeking their way to better understand the word of God and the forks they will face on that path.

I am looking forward to the next Cliffs Notes that Cochise Pendleton will offer us as a guidepost in our Spiritual Journey.

Informative...Objective...Fair and Accurate
Bible vs. Watchtower is an easy-to-read and understand comparison of Watchtower and Biblical teachings.

Before reading this book, I was unaware of Jehovah's Witness background, and from where they claim authority. The book presents the evidence clearly in a non-judgemental or condemning way. Though Mr. Pendleton is clearly correct in his findings, it is refereshing to become educated on a subject as sensitive as religion...on an objective "let the reader decide" basis.

Very well done...excellent book. Would recommend to anyone needing a "look behind the curtain" at Watchtower teachings and what makes that organization tick.

Ken Pedersen
Green Valley, AZ

The bible vs. the watchtower
This book is a must have to help all former witness move foward, and to persue a relationship with their savior JESUS.I love how the author exposed the organization regards to being Gods only instrument to people on earth today, and proved the organization to be a false prophet.Also, the authors compassion is fully recognized by the methods he explains and shares to witness effectivley to a jehovah witness.My goal is to win Jehovah witness's to Jesus, and this book is the answer to my prayers to being sucessful.Thank you for publishing this book well done!

The anecdote works
Cochise Pendleton set out to write a book that would provide an anecdote to the Watchtower addiction which controls even those who've left the organization. The last page sums it all up by restating the author's purpose in exposing the Watchtower's lack of credibility which in turn renders their teachings meaningless. I believe he accomplished his goal. As one formerly addicted to the Watchtower's pseudo Christian teachings, I agree that in order to accept any other biblical interpretation, the mighty wall of Watchtower authority has to come down first.

"The Bible vs. The Watchtower's" presentation as a "case" shows the qualities of an attorney's touch and in so doing lives up to the title which promises it's jury "you decide..." The scope of this jury ranges from struggling current and former members of Jehovah's Witnesses, the family and friends called to help and understand their addiction, and the body of Christ given the commission to share the true gospel of Jesus Christ with those who show up at their doors. The author offers tips on how Christians can go about sharing their faith respectfully with one of Jehovah's Witnesses and includes the story of his own spiritual journey as well.

Among the variety of books authored by former members of this religion, Mr. Pendleton's stands out as unique due to the scores of Watchtower quotes and court case trial transcripts he managed to fit within less than 100 pages. It's concise size with such easily referenced quotes make this a valuable ministry tool for those engaged in reaching Watchtower members. I would also recommend it for church leaders equipping their members through small group studies.

Julie McAllen
former member of Jehovah's Witnesses

A must read book!
The Bible vs. the Watchtower is a very informative book.I didn't know much about the Jehovah's Witness religion before I read this book.The author, Cochise Pendleton is clear in conveying his message and the reader can really feel his passion for the topics at hand! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Author
I probably own every book by Mr. Reed.The reason is his reliability.He is thorough like no one else.Once again he documents this cult in great detail.He goes through the presidents of the Watchtower and listed the publications as they appear in order. While giving brief reviews from each publication that is noteworthy.He also sometimes slips in which doctrines have been changed from previous publications.This is a must for every serious student of the Watchtower. ... Read more

Product Description
Tracy Ringsdorf compassionately uses her experiences as a former Jehovah's Witness to provide hope and insight for others struggling with the religion.The book provides case studies of 24 other individuals who courageously shared their painful experiences in leaving the religion. The book is based on love and helping others in their transition from abandonment into a world of acceptance and forgiveness. Tracy offers thought-provoking questions and resources to the reader for their journey.Shared common experiences help those who feel alone in their divided feelings toward the religion. The fundamental doctrines of the Jehovah's Witness religion, the reasons why individuals join and stay in the religion, the painful experiences of leaving the religion and recovering from that pain are covered. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Simplistic
I was expecting a good read when I ordered this.I was first let down by the price verses the length of the book.I think you can spend twelve bucks on other books with a great deal more info.
I was also let down by the content.The only thing I found interesting about this book is seeing what happened to the JW's after.I think it might have been more interesting to read all the quotes from them one at a time.I found that I had to go back and forth to really get who was who and what they were saying.I somewhat regret the purchase, but am glad to know that all of Tracy's friends and family found that it was beneficial.

one of the quoted
I really appreciated Tracy's handling of this topic.I was of the ones interviewed in her book.I found it fascinating to see how my story had so much in common with the others and how I had dealt with things differently. It was also interesting to see how I felt when I answered her questions compared to how I feel now.I feel this book is very useful for those who know someone who used to be a JW as well as for those trying to leave.It's small size makes it easy to pick up and read.Tracy offers clear ideas for those to recover and her faith, although not one I shared, was refreshing and dignified.In addition, she was not dogmatic or strident like so much of the other ex-JW information out there. Well done and I'm honored to have been a part of it!

Informative, interesting book
I enjoyed this book very much.I think that people who are trying to leave the Watchtower religion will find it very helpful and I recommend it.

Understanding the JW world
As a friend and non-JW, I've listened to Tracy's story for years, in utter disbelief.It was good to see her story intermingled with 24 other stories of those with similar experiences.Must be refreshing to realize you are not alone.Glad to see there are resources available, starting with Tracy's book, if you find yourself "lost" along the JW way.

fascinating and enlightening reading
I am not a JW, nor have I ever been, but I found this book to be riveting reading. As Tracy's sister-in-law, I found it to really help capture the essence of her struggles and allow me to better understand her. As a past clinical social worker, I believe this book to have the potential for healing work done individually and within the therapeutic environment. I also believe this book can be very helpful for those trying to help ex-JW's, either personally or professionally. ... Read more

Product Description
A defense of the teachings and beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses concerning the divine name, the identity of the biblical God Jah, and Jesus of Nazareth. Also included are discussions about various social and other issues, including uses of blood, sexual orientation, abortion, as well as what the Bible teaches concerning mankind's salvation and the freedom and sovereignty of Jah God. This book also contains extended discussions about biblical monotheism, the preexistence of Jesus Christ, and of his identify as God's "Firstborn." Extended discussions of translations issues related to John 1:1, John 8:58, and other important biblical texts are also presented, particularly as these relate to the New World Translation. Finally, the book further introduces the Christian Witnesses of Jah, Jehovah's Witnesses who reject traditions of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society which are not based on the best available evidence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A ready defense againstTrinitarianism
I have read Greg Stafford's 3rd edition book extensively.It is massive and covers every objection made against his belief that Jah is a one God and that his son Jesus is begotten of Jah.Greg deals with all the trinitarian objections in a thorough and fair manner. More than I can say for his objectors. He deals with simply the bible, the Hebrew language and the Greek language as well. For bible students like myself the book can get very technical and can be difficult to absorb when it comes to understanding Greek tenses and structure.But when comparing scripture with other scripture the end result becomes very clear.
Stafford does not deal with the date setting problems of the Watchtower society, especially the "1914 last generation" and 1975 end time prediction as well.Neither does he deal with the Watchtower's invisible presence of Christ reigning since 1914 vs Christ's visible return. For some reason he does not deal with this at all? The main crux of Stafford's book is to prove that Jesus Christ is not the one true Almighty God Christians should worship but one of many "gods" of Jah's creation. In a sense Stafford's theology borders more on polytheism or bi theism. That there is one Almighty God Jah and beside him is a mighty god Jesus who is his Son who deserves devotion but not worship that only Jah gets?
All in all it is an excellent book and should be read by Trinitarians and non trinitarians alike. BTW, Greg Stafford is starting his own Christian movement called the "Christians of Jah".One wonders if the Watchtower society will dis-fellowship Mr Stafford over this decision? After all if one is not a faithful slave to the Watchtower organization one can be dis fellowshipped very easily. This would prove very embarrassing to Mr Stafford especially after defending the Jehovah Witness movement in his book, would it not? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

An excellent literary, work; HOWEVER...
An excellent literary work; however, Greg Stafford is not one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I want everyone to be clear on this point. He has apostatized Jehovah's Witnesses publicly on the distribution site of his book. If you are one of Jehovah's Witnesses, understand that you are purchasing a book written by an apostate. If you aren't, be clear that he does not actually represent the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society, nor is he one of Jehovah's Witnesses in good standing. Here is a link as proof:

[..]

Good Exegis, but NOT by one of Jehovah's Witnesses
An excellent literary work; however, Greg Stafford is not one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I want everyone to be clear on this point. He has apostatized Jehovah's Witnesses publicly on the distribution site of his book. If you are one of Jehovah's Witnesses, understand that you are purchasing a book written by an apostate. If you aren't, be clear that he does not actually represent the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society, nor is he one of Jehovah's Witnesses in good standing. Here is a link as proof:

http://www.elihubooks.com/data/lampstand/000/000/007/Why_interested_in_JWs_REVISED.pdf

a valuable scholarly contribution
On page 264, Greg Stafford makes a good point: "Genuine scholarly analysis looks at the evidence and only the evidence; those who are preoccupied with a person's credentials or whether they are a 'liberal' or 'conservative' scholar give evidence that they are not genuinely interested in a critical analysis of the issues." Stafford demonstrates a remarkable ability to be objective in examining questions in which he has made a personal commitment and profound psychological investment. As Byington once put it in his review of the NWT, it is easy to first notice faults, but I'd rather first mention those features I found most commendable.

_Jehovah's Witnesses Defended_ interacts with Judeo-Christian literature on a scholarly (i.e., grammatical-historical) level. Whether one agrees or disagrees with Stafford on specific points, one cannot help but approve of the way he conducts himself. His awareness of Judeo-Christian literature is not limited to those texts he views as theologically authoritative, and he demonstrates an ability to engage in textual criticism and grammatical discussion in a mature and yet creative way. (For example, though I have a different solution, Stafford's logic in advocating and then explaining the more difficult reading at 1 Corinthians 2:16 is worthy of the respect Furuli gives it in the "Forward.")

Stafford is right to take issue with scholarly Christians reading the Trinity back into the NT. (By the way, Stafford cannot be accused (as Witnesses often are) of misunderstanding the Trinity doctrine (64-65)--though some might take issue with his contention that if "there is more than one center of consciousness then there is more than one person" (188). Trinitarians would view this as an instance of more than one _nature_ (even speaking of the human nature of Jesus as having a will, personality, and center of consciousness unmixed but harmonious with his divine nature), not person.) Since the doctrine was articulated long after the NT corpus was produced, it is an unsound scholarly practice (though a perfectly legitimate practice in devotional writing) to interpret NT text as if it were produced after Nicea and Chalcedon. However, if one is going to adopt this principle, one ought to be consistent. Just as post-Nicean doctrines ought not to be introduced into ante-Nicean documents, Christian beliefs ought not to be introduced into Jewish texts (cf. 106-107). This is not to say that Christian interpretations of Jewish texts have no place in scholarly writing; nor am I implying that one cannot (as a Christian) see Jesus as the fulfillment of the Messianic hopes and visions of divine beings (such as Wisdom) surrounding Jehovah in the OT. One simply ought to be careful.

With regard to Stafford's conclusions about the introduction of the name "Jehovah" into the NT of the NWT, his analysis is generally valid but was written before BeDuhn's study. For this reason, the book does not answer some of the points BeDuhn makes. On this same subject, Stafford's question: "Since all of the Hebrew and Greek texts that were used by the NT writers contain the divine name (and all known copies support the view that they did), why, then, if the divine name is not part of the original NT documents, did God not preserve His word from the OT into the NT?" makes it sound like those who argue that the NT never used the divine name all lack faith in God's ability or willingness to preserve the text of the NT. This is not the case. The preservation of the OT and the NT is different from the preservation of the OT _in_ the NT. Furthermore, Stafford's argument in defense of the hypothetical emendation of the NT to contain the name "Jehovah" borrows from the arguments for an eclectic text but cannot be pressed to the degree Stafford advocates (24-25). It is true that one must "consider the circumstances and controversies surrounding the composition of the original NT documents," but this does not mean one can start inserting into the text of the NT theologically and emotionally charged words that we hypothesize were removed from the autographs. Such a mentality would soon have us making all the ancient documents over in our image.

Stafford's discussion of the expression "Son of God" is firmly rooted in the Jewish mindset (99, 113-115), but it could be supplemented by a consideration of how the expression would have sounded to Roman ears, given that the emperor was viewed as the son of a god. Also, he could have discussed the ways in which being a Son of God identified one as a King. Similarly, Stafford's argument based on the story of the Tower of Babel (not to mention his validation of violent and primitive literary characterizations that inspire fear of God) (11-12; cf. 73), his refutation of Bowman's claim regarding Jesus' receiving _latreuo_ at Revelation 22:3, his discussion of the possible meanings of the word "paradise" in Appendix A, his rejection of the idea of an impersonal God (58, 67; cf. 61: The difference in sense between _elohim_ (absolute Deity) and YHYH (the manifest and personal God) is alluded to here (cf. the heading "GOD" on p. 891 of _The Emphatic Diaglott_ published by Jehovah's Witnesses).), and Appendix E are weak and could be more fully developed or discarded.

My principal objection is that the work does not really address those aspects of the Jehovah's Witnesses religion that are most peculiar to it. The majority of Stafford's book details a very accurate textual analysis of certain texts significant to Christological studies. He has a good handle on how Christ was originally viewed (127), and he acknowledges that Witnesses (usually when pressed) can speak of Jesus in very lofty terms, even in terms of divinity. However, as Stafford points out in his discussion of salvation, faith without works is dead. If people can only sing about Jesus but never to him, talk through him but never to him, and talk about bowing to (worshiping) him but never bow, their faith is not alive; their words are empty.

As I mentioned above, Stafford does not give sufficient space (or gives none at all) to discussing those beliefs and practices that are most unique to Jehovah's Witnesses and most offensive to observers of the movement. When he does discuss such Witness teachings as the division of the Christian congregation into two classes, the subordination of women to men (195), the fixation on doing certain Watchtower-related works in order to survive Armageddon, and the date-related predictions of Jehovah's Witnesses, Stafford's consideration lacks his usual objectivity. He acts as if it is enough to be able to come up with a few proof texts and to defend the NWT translation of those texts. His treatment of the Watchtower publications he cites does not take into account the authoritarianism of the Watchtower Theocracy and its tendency to infantilize people. In a different type of organization, end time speculation about certain dates, imaginative and allegorical interpretations of ancient prophecies and "prophetic types," and absurdly literal interpretations of Scriptural texts would not be hurtful to believers. But when an authoritarian organization (such as the Theocracy created by Rutherford) states that its "interpretation" of the Bible leads it to "conclude" such and such, an individual member cannot (as Stafford does) easily appeal to the assertions that the organization's interpretation is not inspired (even if they are printed in the Watchtower).

Finally, I'd like to provide a rather informal and non-exhaustive _Corrigenda_:
"could" for "cloud" (21); page number needs to be filled in: "????" (545); "it is" for "is it" (63); missing a closing bracket ("]") after "Trinitarians" (72); "IN" for "in" (110); "I certainly not" for "I certainly am not" (428); "flexion" for "inflexion," which is the British form of the word "inflection" (153); last part of last sent. in par. 2 (132); "judgment (compare" for "judgment. (Compare" (185; along these lines, the book alternates between the usual convention for citing scriptural references and the Watchtower convention); "thee" for "three" (169); "gat" for "begat"? (234. Perhaps, the quote needs a "[sic]"? I have not had a chance to look it up.); due to the bold subheading which interrupts the flow of the argument, the fact that the statement "It is not only possible" is made in response to the preceding quote is not clear (237); omit the space between the quotation mark and the word "for" (260); omit third bracket ("]") (443); missing period: "code[.] For" (516); finally, Stafford's use of the quote from the _Watchtower_ on page 494 is totally contrary to the sense of the original.

His statement that Witnesses do not regard the Wisdom of God in Proverbs 8 "as a literary device personifying the abstract concept of Hebrew wisdom" seems to simply be a mistake (235, ftn. 111). He may mean that Witnesses do not view Wisdom in Proverbs 8 as _merely_ a personification but also see in her a prophetic type of the Christian Logos. Though the most recent and most detailed discussion of Proverbs 8 was made after the publication of _Jehovah's Witnesses Defended_ (_Watchtower_, March 15, 2001, 25-28), the article does not contain anything substantially different from what has been said by the Society before its publication (_Insight on the Scriptures_ (1988), Vol. 2, 52).

Greg Stafford debunks the Critics
Dear On-line shopper,

After reading this book, I am thoroughly convinced that there are too many pseudo-sophisticated people running around. What do I mean by pseudo-sophisticated? Well, too many people are falsely educated. They read what one Greek article says about a certain word and think they know the language. Greg knows his Greek.

In relation to Greg Stafford's book, he does an excellent job of presenting the Watchtower's view. The ludicrousness of many who argue against a view the Watchtower does not maintain is like telling someone they don't have a blue car even though the person openly admitted it was red!

The intent of this book is not to be a converting attempt. Neither is it is designed to present the Watchtower or infallible or perfect after all. Any human organization will fall prey to error. But Greg focuses primarily on how the Watchtower arried to their understanding through Scriptural deduction and not by arbitrary fancy.

And to all those who tried to preach through your comments, his book is tailored to this type of criticism.

Sincerely Grant

2nd edition is now available!
Click on Stafford's name above to find the link for his 2nd ed.! Then read my review: "Deepens your appreciation of the Bible while defending JWs, February 13, 2001". See you there... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Just the facts, ma'am
This is a great book for those doing research on the history of Jehovah's Witnesses. Each chapter is a premise set forth by the author that is either proven or disproved by the sources quoted in the chapter. The author left no stone unturned when searching for information. You'll read quotes from court transcripts, snippets of "Watchtower" and "Awake!" articles, articles by C. T. Russell, interviews with former Bethelites, and much more.

But don't open this book expecting to be entertained. This book is research, not pleasure reading. If you can plow through the dry reading, you'll learn a great deal about what made Jehovah's Witnesses into what they are today. I don't regret reading it.

You Need This Book In Your JW Library!
Edmond Gruss has compiled a marvelous volume of the completely failed prophecies made by the Brooklyn Oracles, the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses. I read this book waay back when it first came out. This is not an easy reader, but is in fact more of a reference work. So, don't get the mistaken notion of the nature or purpose of Gruss's excellent work. This book should be in the library of every former Jehovah's Witness and should be read by all those who are foolish enough to be considering joining the JW's. This book brings together, in one handy volume, all of the false prophecies of the Watchtower Blindmen.

NJM

Author of JEHOVAH UNMASKED and I WAS A TEENAGE JEHOVAH'S WITNESS.

Please
Read "Paganism in our Christianity" Historian Arthur Weigall, if you want to talk about something!

Not Impressed
This book proved a disappointment. One reviewer said "Jehovah's Witnesses by Professor Edmond Gruss is one of the best documented and most devastating critiques of the Watchtower ever written." So, after reading and thoroughly enjoying the two books written by Raymond Franz, former Governing Body member, I read this one. But it's little more than a review of other's research. As a literary piece, it's written like a third grade degree essay, offering little critical examination and never really adding anything new. Don't bother with this one!

The evidence will be hard to refute
Although it is not an extremely readable book--this is because there are a lot of quotes since it is meant to be a general resource more than just a book you sit down and read--I know of nothing more valuable that so clearly depicts the JW's prophetic record. And it doesn't look good for the folks in Brooklyn. I believe that any thinking Witness who was to consider the false prophetic claims as produced by Watchtower leaders and shown in this book would have their world shaken apart, so caution on their part must be taken before picking this up to read. But truth is something that is worthwhile to find and grasp, and in this case, I highly recommend the Witness go through the well-documented records as put together by Gruss and determine this: If the Governing Body could be so wrong about so many things in its entire history, what else could they be wrong on? (i.e. view of God, view of Jesus, view of authority, view of salvation, etc.) For these are not just men claiming to be fallible leaders, but rather, their very words are examined and studied by the 7 million JWS located around the world as being equal in authority with anything the Bible says. And these kind folks are coming to our doors, urgently trying to share their faith. I believe a book like this would be valuable on the shelf of every Christian who realizes that, when a Witness knocks on their door, it's time to go to work and share our faith--and we don't even have to take our bedroom slippers off!) The amount of work that went into this book is incredible--my hat's off to Ed Gruss, a great researcher on the religion of the Jehovah's Witnesses. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great information - a must read
I sent this book to a friend who has family members in the Jehovah's Witnesses. She said it is very real to life and appreciated me sending it to her. It really opened my eyes and makes me wonder how such a group can function in the USA. I guess I'm pretty naive. ... Read more

Product Description
Jehovah's Witnesses Help Expand First Amendment Rights: The Jehovah's Witnesses were the first organized group in America to generate what has been termed vigilant or disciplined plan of litigation to expand the boundaries of the First Amendment. In a period of 15 years, Watchtower Bible and Tract Society lawyers won Witnesses the right to distribute literature door-to-door, on public streets and on streets owned by private corporations and the federal government; the right to carry out these activities without first securing a permit or paying a tax; the right to use sound-amplifying equipment to spread their beliefs; and the right to be protected from continued arrests under unconstitutional ordinances. By implementing an extensive, detailed legal plan to overturn ordinances that interfered with their evangelical mission, the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society broadened protection under the First Amendment not just for their members, but for all Americans. The overwhelming success of the plan shaped mass media law, the application of the First Amendment, and group litigation in the United States. This book explores these issues and examines the Jehovah's Witnesses plans to expand the First Amendment even further. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Plan That Changed How The 1st Amendment Was Viewed
Jehovah's Witnesses were being harassed and persecuted in local communities throughout the United States because of their preaching work. In order to eliminate the need to continually fight each community separately in court Jehovah's Witnesses devised a legal Plan to get the U.S. Supreme Court to enact rulings that would have nationwide effect. This book is the story about how that Plan succeeded and how it changed the way the 1st Amendment was viewed in the U.S. legal system.

Dr. Henderson, who is not a Jehovah's Witness, highlights the 19 cases that Jehovah's Witnesses brought before the U.S. Supreme Court (they won 14 of the 19) from 1938 to 1953 that dealt with 1st Amendment issues (freedom of the exercise of religion, speech, press and peaceably assembly) in regard to public preaching.So flag salute, conscientious objection and other non-preaching cases are not dealt with here.

Though the book deals primarily with legal issues it is not a dry read. It is written in a way that a layperson will find understandable. The book is divided into 5 chapters. Chapter 1 gives a concise account of the beliefs, practices, history and organizational structure of the Witnesses. Chapter 2 is a biography of Hayden C. Covington the lead attorney in implementing the Plan for the Witnesses. Chapter 3 is a detailed account of the actual Plan. Chapter 4 details how the Plan was used in the 19 cases and the outcome of each case. Chapter 5 explains how the Plan "was unique, detailed, comprehensive and widespread - the only coordinated campaign of its kind in First Amendment litigation." It also details how these 19 cases influenced mass media law, the whole of 1st Amendment law and minority group litigation before the U.S. Supreme Court. ... Read more