I know this has been discussed, but I've been thinking alot about it lately. As JW's (those of us who were), we knew others who were "weak" and those who lived double lives.
I understand young people who do (I did it), and even those who stay somewhat active to maintain family relationships. But there are those who call themselves JW's who never go in service, barely make meetings and live a basically "worldly" life. Again, that's their business, but what really bothers me is the ones in that condition that criticize me for leaving.
I have a friend I've known since I was a teen. He and I lived our double lives, got into trouble now and then, basically were somewhat average JW teens. Now we're both 40. I've left and he has not. He tells me he is so sad for me, so worried I won't be there in the new system, that I'm making such a poor decision. But he hasn't been in service in years, makes a meeting about once every two months or so, is an admitted alcoholic, loves porn, would cheat on his wife if there was an opportunity (he's told me so), does business with the U.N. and is basically a NON-JW in every way I can think of. But somehow he thinks that I'm to be pitied and I'm wrong.
I know he truly believes the JW's are correct. I can't understand how he really thinks that he is somewhat acceptable in God's eyes (from the JW viewpoint he believes). He likes to debate with me and can defend JW beliefs very well.
I'm not sure if I'm asking anything here, or just ranting, but this type of JW is one that really confuses me. What's going on in his mind that comforts him that he's "ok with God"? How does he see my situation as worse than his (from a JW viewpoint)?
JW in name only
by thom 5 Replies latest jw friends
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thom
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OldSoul
Thom,
Since no one else has, I will take a stab at this. You mention a double-life, but there is one implicit in the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Jehovah's Witnesses say one thing and in practice demonstrate that they believe another. Jehovah's Witnesses say that they believe a relationship with God is the most important thing, but their practices demonstrate that they believe the organization is equal to Jehovah and that their primary relationship is with the organization. (2 Thessalonians 2:3-17)
I hope this helps, or at least sparks some conversation.
Respectfully,
OldSoul -
ChrisVance
The sad thing is there are disfellowshiped dubs who feel the same way. They believe the dubs have the truth, they just don't want to change their ways. Must be a terrible guilt trip they put on themselves.
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Maverick
The next time this guy says how sad he is for you, look him in the eye and smile and tell him he'd better hope he is wrong and you are right about the religion otherwise God will kill him first!
He's a loser, forget him. You have moved on and wised up, he is still a prisoner to the WTS's BS!
Enjoy your life, friend!
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thom
Oldsoul, I hand't thought of what you say in relation to living a double life, but it makes alot of sense. Seems that a JW who does follow the WTBTS is in a way really doing the same thing, professing a relationship with God while in reality worshipping a man made organization. Sort of a double life.
Also I hadn't thought about df'd dubs who are the same way. Though some are looking to be reinstated, I've known those who don't plan to be, but keep believing as a JW. Confusing to me since if I thought JW's were correct, and I wanted to live in their "new system", I'd certainly be trying to get back on track with them. Thanks Chris.
Maverick, I like your idea, I may make that comment :)
I also think it's a big pride issue with my friend. He can't stand to be wrong. -
Mysterious
He needs answers in his life and a sense of belonging. Whether he is a practicing JW or not identifying with the group gives him comfort which is why he does it. He doesnt feel that his identifying is impacting his ability to live his life the way he wants to so he sees no reason to change and is affectively too comfortable with what he has now and too lazy to change.