Exercising some doubt, or suspending belief, can be a real protection

by booby 7 Replies latest jw friends

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  booby

  ***w017/1pp.18-19DoNotLetDoubtsDestroyYourFaith***

  Doubt-IsItAlwaysBad?

  Of course, not all doubt is bad. At times, you need to suspend acceptance of something till you are sure of the facts. Religious exhortations to the effect that you should just believe and should doubt nothing are dangerous and deceptive. True, the Bible says that love "believes all things." (1 Corinthians 13:7) A loving Christian is certainly ready to believe those who have proved trustworthy in the past. But God's Word also warns against 'putting faith in every word.' (Proverbs 14:15) Sometimes a person's past record gives legitimate reason for doubt. "Although [the deceptive talker] makes his voice gracious," the Bible warns, "do not believe in him."-Proverbs 26:24, 25.

  The apostle John also warns Christians against blind belief. "Do not believe every inspired expression," he writes. Rather, "test the inspired expressions to see whether they originate with God." (1 John 4:1) An "expression," a teaching or opinion, might appear to emanate from God. But did it really come from him? Exercising some doubt, or suspending belief, can be a real protection because, as the apostle John says, "many deceivers have gone forth into the world."-2 John 7.
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  Soldier77

  Hah! I love how they say this yet turn right around and say, do not doubt the GB (F&DS) because they are god's representatives.

  Good find booby.
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  JWoods

  Hah! I love how they say this yet turn right around and say, do not doubt the GB (F&DS) because they are god's representatives.

  Not only that, but we had a thread here in the last few days that quoted a WT article that said a person should suppress any self doubts about the JW teachings - exactly the opposite of this.
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  booby

  Ain't they just somethin with their spirit directed writin skills.
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  cult classic

  "A loving Christian is certainly ready to believe those who have proved trustworthy in the past. But God's Word also warns against 'putting faith in every word.' (Proverbs 14:15) Sometimes a person's past record gives legitimate reason for doubt."

  Well that just about says it all, doesn't it? They make me sick with their head games. Thanks for the post booby. These are good quotes to point out to those still in. Not that they care.
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  Soldier77

  Oh I missed that one JWoods, been out for a few days.. ya know, enjoyin the bootiful sunshine!
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  5thGeneration

  Watchtower, August 1, 2001 p. 14

  "First, since “oneness” is to be observed, a mature Christian must be in unity and full harmony with fellow believers as far as faith and knowledge are concerned. He does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding. Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.” By regularly taking in the spiritual food provided “at the proper time”—through Christian publications, meetings, assemblies, and conventions—we can be sure that we maintain “oneness” with fellow Christians in faith and knowledge.—Matthew 24:45."

  5th
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  wasblind

  They may not believe in the trinity, but they sure believe in double talk.