Watchtower Pablum

From the Friday, August 15 2003, daily bible reading, Solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish between right and wrong. Hebrews 5:4

I was curious as to how the writers of the daily reader would handle this scripture, as I find the WT pablum to be well-blended, monotonous, pre-digested and bland. I was not surprised:

Develop the habit of doing research in Bible publications provided through “the faithful and discreet slave.”

This reading in turn referenced the 2002 August WT:

WT 8/1/01 Page 11, para 18. In other words, every time we are faced with a decision, we should learn to use our mental powers to discern what Bible principles are involved and how they can be applied.

As “independent thinking” is frowned upon, the WTS could never truly set their congregation free to make decisions for themselves. The only mental power approved by the society is memorization. That is how the society ended up with a congregation of immature adults, unable to discern the correct course of action without assistance. Here are sample questions from readers, from a group who believe they are the most “spiritually mature” on earth:

“ How can a Christian wife balance loyalty to God with submission to her unbelieving husband if he shares in religious holiday activities ?” WT Dec 15, 2001

“ In many parts of the world, it is customary to give wedding gifts. What Scriptural principles should we consider when giving or receiving such gifts ? WT September 1, 2003

“ If a Christian hears voices, does that necessarily mean that he is under demon attack?” WT May 1, 2003

“ Is it wrong to take the life of a very sick or old pet?” WT June 1, 2003

My honey’s response to my criticism that the WT article are too simplistic, was that he finds some of the articles really “deep”, and it takes him long time to understand them fully. I did not have the heart to tell him that confusing is not the same as “deep”.  The simple truths of the gospel, like love for fellow man, take a lifetime to apply.  In applying simple truths, maturity is found.  This is opposite to the WT way, where simple truth is made complicated (love fellow believers, but reject your wayward child), and honest people are distracted by numerology and sky-watching. 

When I was a dub I agonized over the decision making process. At times I was almost paralized by fear of making a wrong decision. Their was no help in the F&DS pablum publications on how to go about making decisions. Finally I was able to reason out how to go about it on my own. It seems ludicrus that a 30 something woman with 5 kids could be that helpless.

My method was the "going to Wal-Mart" method. I could drive north on the main hyway filled with tons of cars and trucks; or I could drive slower on a tree lined neighborhood street and arrive less stressed. Either way I would arrive at my goal - Wal-Mart. The point is; the effort exerted to reach the goal will determine the success of a decision. But searching in the WT publications will not guarantee success. It only confuses the process.

Loris

Back when I was a more uptight Christian (I hope I have shed most of that), I would pray agonizingly over every decision.  Seeking God's direction.  Until I figured out He probably was not too worried either way, as He could use me whichever choice I made.  I figger He is much more interested in how I live my life.

I like your wal-mart illustration.  Very nice.