Last March, I suspended my JFR Trial series. I was being too detailed, and presenting it in too dry a fashion. So, in the last two months, I have been working on it from the approach of a story line, except that I retained the reference citations. It seems to be coming out much better. HOWEVER ...
Today, I was going over Clayton J. Woodworth's testimony as he was cross-examined by the Government attorney ... He said something that jarred me to my senses ... and illustrates how the Society, circa 1916 - 1918, viewed their "sacred" almost "inspired" work. Here is what C.J. Woodworth noted about his work on the book, "The Finished Mystery":
Government to Woodworth: "Did you think it (The Finished Mystery) would command a greater sale if it was completed before the war was over?"
Woodworth: "I judged if the end of the war would follow shortly after its publication that it would attract the attention of Bible students everywhere as being a correct interpretation of the Book of Revelation."
Government: "Your thought was to get it on the market before the war was over?"
Woodworth: "Yes, sir."
Government: "That that would enhance its sales?"
Woodworth: "Yes, sir."
Essentially two things jump out here: First, C. J. Woodworth was working fast to publish "The Finished Mystery" because its timing on the market would lend credibility to his (the Society's) interpretation of Revelation ... so in essence, it was not about some Divine guidance, but about making his work and timing of it fit the circumstances of the day.
Second, he was also concerned with enhancing sales. This sworn statement of Woodworth's clearly shows that at least during this great time of being inspected by Jesus Christ, as the newly enthroned King in heaven, was based 'more' on marketing a product and giving an impression than about anything being spirit-directed by Jehovah and Jesus. The bottom line being SALES!
Ref. Trial Transcript, page 608-609, parts 1809-1810.
These kinds of things along with the overall flavor of the trial and issues presented by the Prosecution and Defense makes this trial most interesting, revealing, and exciting.
As I go though this more, I will post small items like this rather than any more long treatments. When I am done with the trial, I will submit it to be hosted on a web page ... and I will also be presenting a short summary at BRCI this year.