WT 6/15 2002: Confidential Matters

by GermanXJW 6 Replies latest watchtower scandals

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  GermanXJW

  The Watchtower of 15th June, 2002 contains a strange three-paragraph-article about 'confidential matters':

  A Time to Reveal a Confidential Matter

  Keeping certain matters confidential can mean the difference between peace and contention. But is there a time to reveal a confidential matter? Note what the prophet Amos says about his God: "Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has revealed his confidential matter to his servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7) From these words, we can glean something concerning confidentiality. Jehovah may keep certain matters confidential for a period of time and eventually reveal them to some individuals. How can we imitate Jehovah in this regard?

  At times, the appointed shepherds in the Christian congregation find it beneficial to keep a certain matter undisclosed. (Acts 20:28) For instance, with the benefit of the congregation in mind, they may decide to keep the details of some arrangements or changes in congregation responsibilities confidential until a specific time.

  In such a case, however, it is important to make clear to those who are involved if, when, and in what manner the matter is to be revealed. Knowing when a matter will be publicly disclosed may help them to maintain confidentiality. - Proverbs 25:9.

  So what is the point here? If the point was to tell the Elders that "it is important to make clear to those who are involved if, when, and in what manner the matter is to be revealed", IMHO a BOE-Letter would be more sensible.

  To me, this short article is just intended to emphasize that "confidential matters" in the congregation are "beneficial" and only "with the benefit of the congregation in mind".

  Maybe this has something to do with Dateline when many JW will get to know about confidential matters that were never intended to be revealed.
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  Fatal Error

  I remember thinking the same when I read that... Seems like an early attempt at justification, if only to condition the average JW to dismiss any upcoming criticism. Sick, sick ,sick...
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  NeonMadman

  Right, they're just trying to justify their secrecy about their own dirty doings in the minds of the rank & file. "Well, if the elders haven't told us, there must be a good reason..."

  Tom

  "Gentlemen, he said, I don't need your organization, I've shined your shoes, I've moved your mountains and marked your cards. But Eden is burning"
  --Bob Dylan
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  ozziepost

  with the benefit of the congregation in mind, they may decide to keep the details of some arrangements or changes in congregation responsibilities confidential until a specific time

  I wonder how it's "for the benefit of the congregation"?

  Cheers,
  Ozzie

  "If our hopes for peace are placed in the hands of imperfect people, they are bound to evaporate."

  
  - Ron Hutchcraft Surviving the Storms of Stress
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  Farkel

  : Note what the prophet Amos says about his God: "Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has revealed his confidential matter to his servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7) From these words, we can glean something concerning confidentiality.

  One has to wonder how a "spiritual feast" can be provided from mere gleanings (scraps).

  Farkel
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  brojo

  Perhaps the WT now realizes that they will be forced to name names of child molesters, which they have been keeping "confidential" (covering up)all these years. They want to make it appear that this was being done for the congregation's benefit, but 'now Jehovah wants these confidential matters revealed'. The molesters should be told in advance that their names are going revealed. This enables them to prepare for the coming public embarrassment and possible prosecution.

  That's my take on it.
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  belbab

  Brojo,

  My take on it is the same as yours. They are giving notice to all those whose names are sealed up in envelopes that we ,the prophet may not be able to keep the lid on forever.

  Just like the Catholic clergy have been manoeuvered into turning all names of pedophiles to the authorities, the time may come when WT will also have to do the same.

  They are saying we will try to warn you in advance when we turn you over to the wolves.

  Just like the Levite that turned his concubine over to the Benjamite mob, the WT will turn over their "woman" to be devastated while they can escape unscathed and protect their beloved organization arrangement.

  It ain't gonna fly.

  Reading again GJW comments at the end, I don't believe they mean Dateline. It is Jehovah who reveals confidential matters at the appropriate time, and Jehovah tells his prophets.
  Dateline and all other news releases informing the public of the
  Pedophiles in Paradise may precipitate events that force the WT to release the names.

  They are telling all the criminals, don't count on us to protect you, we will sacrifice you as an offering to Jah, when we see fit, to protect our interests and the reputation of the glorious ones

  Must be a lot of trembling and shaking weak knees going on out there!

  belbab,