Greetings, Friends:
Rather than simply resurrect an old thread (14 December 2006) and get .5 comments, I wanted to explore anew an article from AWAKE! of September 8, 1987. I thank On the Way Out for posting the pertinent text that the WTB&TS demands should merit one's scrutiny and subsequent decisive action. Of course, the examination of religion of which AWAKE! speaks is specifically Protestantism; nevertheless, can we effectively parlay Rebirth's rewording of the text into a verbal defense for our stand against the course taken by the Society?
Please comment. Thanks, OTWO and Rebirth.
g87 9/8pp.10-11 Future Prospects for Protestantism—And for You!
If Your Church Fails to Act, Will You?
If, after making an honest investigation, you are less than pleased with what you see, do more than just complain. A journalist, while commenting on Karl Barth’s statement that a church is its members, logically concluded: "Church members . . . are responsible for what the church says and does." So ask yourself: Am I willing to share responsibility for everything my church says and does? Can I really be proud of having all its members as spiritual brothers?
While considering these questions, do not overlook the significance of Revelation 18:4, 8. Speaking of the world empire of false religion, displeasing to God, it says: "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues . . . [for] her plagues [shall] come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her."
You may sincerely believe that your church is no part of false religion that God says he will soon destroy. But your life depends upon being 100 percent sure. Are you?
False religion has no future, nor do those who support it. True religion will last forever, along with those who practice it. Make your choice accordingly.
Rebirth's comment:
What's good for the goose is good for the gander:
If, after making an honest investigation, you are less than pleased with what you see, do more than just complain. A journalist, while commenting on Karl Barth’s statement that an organization is its members, logically concluded: "Congregation members . . . are responsible for what Jehovah’s Witnesses say and do." So ask yourself: Am I willing to share responsibility for everything Jehovah’s Witnesses say and do? Can I really be proud of having all its members as spiritual brothers?
Now go take a look at all the recent "brothers" who have been caught with their pants down. All the "brothers" who are being exposed as taking advantage, financially, of their brothers. All the "brothers" who tear apart families with their authority. Can you honestly answer the questions in the quote above considering these facts?
Your thoughts are appreciated.
CoCo