5 comments about Beginning Apologetics 2: How to Answer Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons.

1. Once again I am amazed that Amazon allowed people who obviously did not read a book post negative reviews on it. If they had read the book, they would have realized that "Beginning Apologetics 2: How to Answer Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons," is not an attack on people of this faith, but rather an outline of the doctrinal ideas that these religions have that contradict basic teachings of Christianity, and how their understanding of history.
   
   As Christians, we are exhorted to demonstrate hospitality to strangers, because we never know when they might be angels in disguise. This does not only mean hospitality in the traditional sense of opening our houses for overnight guests, but sharing our lives and our time generously with other who may have need for it. I have lived in many cities, and even when living in locations where I never saw a worship center for Jehovah witnesses, I have had them knock on my door, trying to proselytize me. So the advise recommended by one reviewer that "if you don't want to talk to them, then tell them not to come" aside from being uncharitable, is not very practical advice, if you have no idea from where they come.
   
   Most people are hesitant to enter into dialogues about faith, because they take a lot of issues of their religious practice on faith, which is admirable, but we are exhorted in the Bible to offer guidance to the misinformed. Engaging in a dialogue with an Adventist group, such as the Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, or the Church of Latter Days Saints, can be daunting, because many of the claims they make are so antithetical to basic Christian beliefs, and they uses such and unusual translation of the Bible, that it shocks the average Christian who has not heard these ideas. For instance, they believe Jesus was entirely a God and not man, which contradicts the idea inherent in all Abrahamic faiths that we are commanded to worship only one God, and represents an extension of the Arian heresy. And they believe that only 144,000 people will be in heave, and that all those people were chosen before 1935 and it does not include any person from the Old Testament; implying that the founders of these religions that started in the 1800s (although they believe that they were some part of an underground movement that has ties from the beginning of Christianity; the book outlines this argument too) are holier than prophets like Abraham and Moses.
   
   Adventists gained followings in the 1800s, because charismatic leaders who claimed to have received personal revelations thought that the world was about to end. All the projected dates for the world's ending have long since passed, but people still find credence in these faiths. This book provides excerpts from the religious texts that the Adventists use and teaches readers how to refute their allegations in apologetic discussions by using their own texts, which are very different interpretations than what is readable in mainstream Bibles. Yes, the allegations could easily be refuted using main stream Bibles, but then that might be more difficult to argue the validation for your edition over theirs. It also provides a detailed history of Adventist movements. Although the book is written by a Catholic, its arguments are helpful to any Christian, because in the major differences between Adventist beliefs and mainstream Christian apologetics, represent a huge deviation between basic Christian doctrine that Catholics and non-Catholics hold as true, on the one hand, and what the Adventist believes on the other hand. I recommend that every mainstream Christian buy this incredible affordable book, read it, and the next time an Adventist knocks on your door, offer them Christian hospitality and a charitable dialogue.



2. This series of books is excellent. It is very basic, but complete and concise. Great reading AND reference!



3. Because JWs can be so convincing, using especially the state of the world now, it is hard to pull yourself away once you've been sucked in. This and other guides are a must-have for anyone wanting to pull away. This guide has good info, but may not completely do the trick. Stock up on info to defend yourself!



4. After reading this book, I have come to the conclusion that it is pretty much 'impossible' to change a person's belief system. No matter what the historical facts, lexicons or Greek/Hebrew Bible Dictionaries may be given to support or dispute a belief, it is human nature to defend our beliefs to the max, and for some even to death.
   
   I thought this book was average and had some very factual information backed up by pertinent data. Again, this book was written from the Catholic viewpoint, and no one can argue with the fact that the Catholic religion was the "first" Christian religion that was in existence for approximately 1750 years before the Reformation; therefore, the fundamental basics in religious thought was preserved through the Catholic Church. After the Protestant movement, which began with Luther, there have been over 2000 various sects of different Christian religions by the year 1850 A.D. Frankly, I am overwhelmed and do not know which church is the true church? So, I feel what is important is to concentrate on the simple message of the gospel, which teaches us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves and to love God with all our heart, mind and soul. Also, to follow the 10 commandments and live by the word of God and read the Bible daily. No matter which version of the Bible you read, what matters to God is that you follow His teachings and commandments and remember to be kind and loving to animals and people.
   
   The Bible also says that you can judge a "tree" by the fruit it produces. Trees are sometimes used symbolically to refer to "man" or mankind. The most outstanding citizens of the noblest and honest characters I have ever known, were Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses and Jews. So although they vary in some theological doctrines, they all produce "good fruit" in my eyes.



5. In the interests of full disclosure, I am one of Jehovah's witnesses. As such, I wondered how far in the book I would have to go to find a misrepresentation of what Jehovah's witnesses teach and to what extent it would occur. I will have to say that Mr. Chacon does not disappoint. The first paragraph states that what separates JW's from "orthodox" Christianity is the belief that Jesus was "only a man". I challenge any of the readers of this review to ask any JW coming to their door if they believe that Jesus was, and is, "only a man".
   
   Mind you, I know in advance this won't happen. Chacon's MO is to reaffirm the misinformation, preconceptions and prejudices that have served the Catholic hierarchy so well in maintaining their power over the flock. But for those willing to step out from under the spell for a few moments, read for yourself the Gospel accounts. Ask yourself, if I read these as if I were reading them for the first time who would I conclude that Jesus is? Remember that Jesus said that God revealed spiritual truth to "babes" not theologians. I have confidence that for the honest hearted the Bible will speak to you in clear and unambiguous terms. May it, and not the misinformation propounded in Mr Chacon's book, guide you in the steps you will take in ascertaining Jesus indispensible role in fulfilling God's purpose.

5 comments about Index of Watchtower Errors 1879 to 1989.

1. This book is made up entirely of JW quotes from authoritative works, especially the Watchtower magazines. If you are doing research and want to look some things up, this work is very handy. It would not be a good book just to pick up and read, but it does offer a variety of quotes on everything from the predictions of Christ's return to blood, birthdays, and salvation. I like having the quotes...yet I only wish there was a way to see these quotes in their context (photocopies?). Also, some quotes were not in quotation marks, making me wonder if some of them were paraphrases rather than word-for-word quotes. But otherwise, a good resource to keep on hand.



2. The Jehovah Witness Watchtower cult is a big money life destroyer. The cult causes children to die due to its bogus blood ban. The cult also causes suicide among the members of the cult. Protect your family and community by warning people about this big money mind control operation. Christian Peper



3. In late XIX Century, a then famous american called P. T. Basrnum told:"A fool borns every minute, in the World".The watchtower is a despicable american cult, who gets money from fools.
   This book is about the enormous mistakes maden by watchtower, between 1879 and 1989.About this subject, this book is excellent.Why I won't give 5 stars for this book?Because this book covers until 1989 year.We are in 2007 and since 1989, watchtower made terribles failures again.
   Even so, about watchtower's errors, no other book I know is so good as this book.I hate all cults and watchtower is among the worst of them.



4. In May of 1943, at the New York Supreme Court, former Watchtower attorney Olin Moyle, successfully sued The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for slander. While under oath, the then President of the WTBTS, Nathan Knorr, testified that the JW magazine (The Watchtower) is presented to the public as "God's Word...without qualification." (Court Transcript, Moyle vs. WTBTS, p.1474) In the same case, Frederick Franz, who succeeded Knorr as President of the WTBTS, testified that "Jehovah God" was the Editor of the Watchtower magazine "since its inception." (Court Transcript, pp.795, 866)
   
   In addition, The Watchtower magazine claims to be the ONLY channel through which God communicates His truth to the world. (WT, 4/1/1919, p.6414; WT, 1/15/1917, p.6033) Emphasizing that it does not interpret what God's truth is, but merely puts in writing the truth that God delivers to the world through them, and only them! (WT, 1 July, 1943, p.203; WT11/1/1931, p.327; WT, 1/1/ 1994, p.6) Fortunately, God gives us a few tests to apply to anyone making claims as radical as the WTBTS and The Watchtower magazine.
   
   Deuteronomy 18:20-22 and 13:1-4 give two tests for distinguishing between genuine Prophets of God and False Prophets. (1) If one prophesies in God's name and what they predict does not come to pass - they are a False Prophet. (2) If they're prediction does come to pass, BUT they teach you to follow after false gods - they are a False Prophet. Thus, recognizing False Prophets is achieved by simply applying these tests to the teachings ans prophecies of the WTBTS.
   
   Tragically, everything they have ever predicted has FAILED to come to pass. "Judge" Rutherford (2nd leader of WTBTS) wrote a booklet in 1920 entitled "Millions Now Living Will Never Die." On pp.89-90 Rutherford predicted that in 1925 Old Testament Saints and those listed in the New Testament book of Hebrews chapter 11 would return bodily to live once again on the earth to rule over the New Kingdom of God they would inaugerate, stating, "...Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews chapter eleven, to the condition of human perfection." Needless to say, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are still dead and did not return in 1925.
   
   "Judge" Rutherford taught that in 1914, 1918, and 1925 all governments of the world would be removed and God's Kingdom would replace them as the governing body. (Studies in the Scriptures, Vol.2, early editions, pp.76-78; 98-99; Studies in the Scriptures, Vol.7. p.62; WT, 7/15/1924, p.211)When each year came and went without fulfilling Rutherford's prediction, he had the temerity to write in his book "Vindication" that "God's faithful people" (NOT Rutherford himself) made false predictions that did not come true, stating, "God's faithful people on the earth emphasized the importance of the dates 1914 and 1918 and 1925. They had much to say about these dates and what would come to pass, BUT ALL THEY PREDICTED DID NOT COME TO PASS." (Vindication, Vol.1, p.146) Furthermore, in his book "Light," he wrote that making false predictions is proof positive that someone is a FALSE PROPHET, Rutherford stating, "...their prophecies to date have not come to pass; and that alone is strong evidence that they are false prophets." (Light, Vol.2, p.47) However, regarding all the previous false predictions he made in the official publications of the WTBTS, Rutherford conspicuously failed to apply this standard to himself! Such egregious false predictions, followed by equally egregious cover-ups, rewritings of history, ans misleading statements are common throughout the writings published by the WTBTS. Their entire history is characterized by one false prediction after another.
   
   In addition, doctrines taught by WTBTS leaders as truth received from God, is contradicted by later leaders. Even though every leader involved claims to merely relay truth received from God. For instance, the founder of the Jehovah's Witnesses, Charles Taze Russell, taught for years that the Great Pyramid in Gizeh was designed, engineered, and supervised by God in its construction. In addition, he claimed that by deciphering its dimensions and passage-ways, one could unlock deep secret doctrines taught in the Bible. So much so that Russell called the Great Pyramid in Gizeh "The Bible in Stone." (WT, 3/15/1911, p.4790) In direct contradiction to Russell, the next JW leader, "Judge" Rutherford, taught that the Great Pyramid in Gizeh was not from God but instead was directly designed by Satan himself saying it was Satan's Bible, and not God's stone witness." In the same article, after some detailed explanation of some the Pyramid's dimensions, Rutherford states that, "If the above calculations are correct, then such is further corroborative proof that the Devil himself superintended the building of the pyramid if Gizeh." (WT, Nov.15, 1928, p.344)
   
   Given the events above, it is abundantly clear that the Jehovah's Witnesses organization (WTBTS) is not the ONLY CHANNEL of truth used by God to communicate to the world. In reality, it is a FALSE PROPHET. Anyone can read and study the Watchtower Magazines from 1879 to the present and discover for themselves how deceptive thay have been to their followers.
   
   This book catalogues the false predictions and contradictory doctrine of the Jehovah's Witnesses (WTBTS) from a former JW Elder.
   
   Other recommendations on www.Amazon.com (1) Jehovah's Witnesses Answered Verse by Verse by Daivid A. Reed (2) Jehovah's Witnesses: Their Doctrinal Changes and Prophetics Speculation - What Does the Record Show? by Edmund Gruss (3) Reasoning from the Scriptures with Jehovah's Witnesses by Ron Rhodes (4) 20 Questions Jehovah's Witnesses Cannot Answer by Dr. Charles Love.



5. This book is a must own for any library. It is a great referance tool for dealing with Watchtower lies. You don't really have to read it through. Just go get it for referance.

5 comments about Jehovahs Witnesses Answered Verse by Verse.

1. I do not know much about David Reed but he is obviously a hypocrite and a liar. His book should be banned from this site and all book stores. David Reed may you rot in*&&*&.



2. One Saturday morning I had a JW stop by my house. In the past, I have always been eager to engage w/o knowing the facts of their beliefs, all I used to know was that they didn't believe in the trinity and that their door to door work was their way to salvation. Ephesians 8 clears that right up but when I saw this middle aged man with a 8 year old boy named Marcel, who was adopted from infancy and taught this false doctrine, I felt led to seek out some answers on how to plant some seeds to the next visitor. David Reed gives you the resources and also a simple way to deliver, like some other reviewer wrote, first and foremost, with love.
   
   Reed gives you FACTS in regard to failed prophecies (Christ return, Armageddon), revisions made in the NWT (new world translation)to suit their beliefs such as the changing of the verbage in Exodus 3:14 and John 8:58 where Jesus references "I am". Their own 1984 NWT study bible w/references has a footnote stating the original greek "ego eimi" means "I am". However the new watchtower translation does not even make the correlation!
   
   This book is not just for the Christian wishing to share the good news to the JW but it is also a wake up call to the JW to read the bible, not the watchtower, all scripture is God breathed why not read it instead of ANYTHING else.



3. This is definitely a starter book for those that want to get into the subject. He doesn't go deep into it as much because of the tone of the volume. Unlike other Witness books, he holds back on the passion of his disdain for what the witnesses have done to those they hold back from knowing the truth. The Author stays on point and attempts to be as unbiased as possible, although it is sometimes impossible to do when dealing with this subject.



4. This book is great to put verses into context that are twisted out of context by JW's. It is very informative and well researched by an ex-JW.



5. This is a great book for those people who want to see what the Bible teaches compared to what the Jehovah's Witnesses teach.

5 comments about 20 Questions Jehovah's Witnesses Cannot Answer.

1. The Jehovah's Witnesses organization (The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society)has claimed in its own writings to be THE ONLY channel through which God communicates His truth to the world. (WT, 4/1/1919, p.6414; WT, 1/15/1917, p.6033) Furthermore, it has described itself as a "Prophet-like" group that does not interpret what God's truth is, but merely puts in writing the truth that God delivers to the world through them, and only them! (WT, 7/1/1943, p.203; WT, 11/1/1931, p.327; WT, 10/1/1994, p.6) Considering these claims to posses the exclusive ability to communicate God's truth, the Jehovah's Witnesses must succeed in passing the highest Biblical scrutiny.
   
   Deut. 18:20-22 and 13:1-4 give two tests for distinguishing between genuine Prophets of God and False Prophets. (1) If one prophesies in God's name and what they predict does not come to pass - they are a False Prophet. (2) If one prophesies in God's name and the prediction does come to pass, BUT they teach you to follow false gods - they are a False Prophet. Thus, recognizing False Prophets is achieved by simply applying these tests to the teachings and prophecies of the WTBTS to determine if the claims it makes about itself hold up to Biblical and reasonable scrutiny. If they are THE ONLY TRUE "Prophet" of God, then everything they have ever predicted should have come to pass.
   
   Tragically, everything they have ever predicted has FAILED to come to pass. "Judge" Rutherford (the second leader of the WTBTS) wrote a booklet in 1920 entitled Millions Now Living Will Never Die. On pp.89-90 Rutherford predicted that in 1925 some Old Testament Saints and those listed in the New Testament book of Hebrews chapter 11 would return bodily to live once again on earth to rule over the New Kingdom they would inaugerate, stating, "...Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews chapter eleven, to the condition of human perfection." Needless to say, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are still dead and did not return in 1925.
   
   "Judge" Rutherford taught that in 1924, 1918, and 1925 all governments of the world would be removed and god's Kingdom would replace them as the governing body (Studies In Scripture Vol.2, early editions, pp.76-78; 98-99; Studies in scripture Vol.7,p.62; WT, 7/15/1924, p.211) When each year came and went without fulfilling Rutherford's prediction, he had the temerity to write in his book Vindication that "God's faithful people on the earth emphasized the importance of the dates 1914 and 1918 and 1925. They had much to say about these dates and what would come to pass, but all they predicted did not come to pass." (Vindication, Vol.1, p.146) Furthermore, in his book Light, he wrote that making false predictions is proof positive that someone is a False Prophet, Rutherford stating, "...their prophecies to date have not come to pass; and that alone is strong evidence that they are false prophets." (Light Vol.2, p.47) However, Rutherford conspicuously failed to apply this standard to himself regarding all the previous false predictions he has made in the official publications of the WTBTS! Such egregious false predictions, followed by equally egregious cover-ups, re-writings of history, and misleading statements are common throughout the writings published by the WTBTS. Their entire history is characterized by one false prediction after another.
   
   In addition, doctrines taught by WTBS leaders as truth received from God, is contradicted by later leaders. Even though every leader involved claims to merely relay the truth received from God. For instance, the founder of the Jehovah's Witnesses, Charles Taze Russell, taught for years that the Great Pyramid in Gizeh was designed, engineered, and supervised by God in its construction. He claimed that by by deciphering its dimensions and passage ways, one could unlock deep secret doctrines taught in the Bible. So much so that Russell called the Great Pyramid "The bible in stone." (WT, 3/15/1911, p.4790) In direct contradiction to Russell, the next JW leader, "Judge" Rutherford, taught that the Great Pyramid was not from God but instead was directly designed by Satan himself saying it was "Satan's Bible, and not God's stone of witness." (WT, 11/15/1928, p.344)
   
   Given the events above, it is abundantly clear that the Jehovah's Witnesses organization (WTBTS) is not the ONLY CHANNEL of truth used by God to communicate to the world. In reality, they are False Prophets. They demonstrably and repeatedly fail the tests of a True Prophet of God. Anyone can read and study the WTBTS publications from 1879 to present and discover for themselves how deceptive that have been to their followers.
   
   This book exposes the false predictions and contradictory doctrine of the Jehovah's Witnesses from an insider's point of view. This book will help anyone walk through the abundance of false and misleading statements held by the JW's in a simple and easy to follow manner.
   
   in addition to this book, I highly recommend these others: (1) The Index of Watchtower Errors by David A. Reed (2) Jehovah's Witnesses Answered Verse by Verse by David A. Reed (3) Jehovah's Witnesses: Their Doctrinal Changes and Prophetic Speculation - What does the Record Show? by Edmund C. Gruss (4) Reasoning From The Scriptures with Jehovah's Witnesses by Ron Rhodes. All of these are available from www.amazon.com



2. I really enjoyed this book. You know, asking the "witnesses" the "hard questions" will make them vanish like a morning mist under the sun.
   
   I was an active witness for more than 40 years. (I was "raised" in "the truth.") I did not just wake up one morning and say to hell with it. It was a long process for me. And it started when the Society changed the definition of the word "generation." For almost a hundred years, and all of my 40 plus years, they said from every platform and hundreds if not thousands of times in print that "the generation of 1914" would not pass away before the end came. At first (look it up yourself) they said a person born in 1895 would not pass. Then as they got old they said 1900....then 1910....then you just had to be BORN in 1914. THEN when most if not all of those were dead, in 1995 they changed the meaning of the word "generation" to something completely different.
   
   This was just ONE of the MANY things they did and were doing that was wrong. They have made many false prophesies including the 1975 fiasco, I know, I was there. They have also made "bedroom laws" and try to regulate how a husband and wife make love to each other....and in the past have disfellowshiped for doing it the "wrong" way. I could go on and on, but I know most will just think I'm an "apostate" and do not care to hear any of this. - I used to be the exact same way, so I can't blame you. I just like to sometimes try to open peoples eyes a little faster than it took to get mine open.
   
   The book 1984 could have been written with the JW's in mind. JW's are just SO Orwellian it is not funny. And the reason why you guys can't see this is right in the book...."They can't rebel until they become conscience, and they can't become conscience until they rebel." Yup, you guys can't think for yourselves, much less use any critical thinking skills. You all depend on the Society to tell you daylight is day, and darkness is night.
   
   I will close with this....since I left "the truth," I have never been happier. I no longer feel like 12 MEN in Brooklyn are trying to micro-manage my life. I live a normal and moral life that now includes wearing a cross, giving blood, voting, celebrating birthdays, smoking fine 20 dollar cigars once or twice a month (with 18 year old scotch,) supporting our troops, training at Gunsite, and making love to my wife the way I see fit. The bottom line is that I'm free for the first time in my life, and I'm loving it.
   
   I wish all the JW's well. Some people are always content inside the wire. May the chains of your oppressors weigh lightly on you.
   
   P.S. ... You JW's really need to read "Crisis of Conscience."



3. Oh dear, what a disappointment this book turned out to be. As an ex-jw (3rd generation JW until over 40 years old) I read the other reviews regarding this book and was encouraged by them to buy the book. Indeed, I am in the process of writing a book on JWs myself and was looking forward to another perspective.
   
   What I now realise after reading it is that it is merely a vehicle of the author to push 'Jesus' and born-again Christianity. Now, of course, the author has every right to write about his experiences and his conversion from being a long-time JW to a full blown born again Christian, but sometimes the writing is a little over the top, to say the least.
   
   For example, (as the complete answer to Question 13: How can you gain life in God's New Order if you are Condemned?) the author writes: "Lord Jesus, help us to see your grace and mercy. Bring all truth seekers into your family!! Especially bless those older Witnesses who have been misled. Lead them to you Jesus!"
   
   Sorry but this is drivel unless it is being read out at a prayer meeting for the benefit of other fellow believers. What JW would even consider this as a question they cannot answer?
   
   This illustrates where my problem with the book lies....the 20 Questions that Jehovah's Witnesses Cannot Answer are actually 20 fairly inane and repetitve questions that are only of interest if you want to move on to a different branch of Christianity.
   
   Some examples are:
   Question 2: Where specifically does the Bible say: "The Great Crowd will live on the earth."
   (fair question as far as it goes)
   
   Question 3: So do Jehovah's Witnesses teach a lie that the Great Crowd will live on the earth?
   (just a progression from the last question rather than a new question)
   
   Question 4: Why does the Watchtower Society say that the Great Crowd will live on the earth, when Revelation 19:1 says that the Great Crowd is in Heaven?
   (again, okay as a progression from the previous point but hardly qualifies as a separate question)
   
   ....and so on.
   
   The author does briefly touch on the history of the JWs as well as some inconsistencies in the JW belief system. Some of the 20 Questions may cause some head scratching by a JW. Unfortunately, most JWs will just look at them as a differing religious interpretations and dismiss them out of hand as the ramblings of a fundementalist Christian.
   
   So if you want a book that will encourage you in finding 'Jesus', then it is fine. But if you want to ask really troubling questions of JWs, then I think it falls short.
   
   However, I would recommend the following 2 books nailing a couple of serious issues for JWs:
   "Captives of a Concept" by Don Cameron ISBN 1-4116-2210-3
   "The Gentile Times Reconsidered" by Carl Olof Jonsson ISBN 0-914675-06-0



4. This is one of the better books for me that is a non-reader because it was easy to get through. The topics were fast paced. The negative that I have with the book is that it focused too much on the "great crowd" and not other subjects. There were times that the author would poke a stick in Judge Rutherford's side now and again and it left the taste of bitterness in my mouth, otherwise was an informative book.



5. I think this subject is interesting so long as the writer keeps it that way. There are times in this book that the author seems to get off the subject and seems to just insert the topic casually as if to remember there was a purpose for the book. It is an easy read and could be put down in about an hour.

5 comments about The 10 Most Important Things You Can Say to a Jehovah's Witness (The 10 Most Important Things).

1. JW are a sad bunch. the have their own bible to fit their beliefs.



2. If you want to have a serious conversation with one who is a Jehovah's Witness, and not have them talking at you without you having any input to the conversation, then you will be better prepared after you read this book.



3. Everyone is searching for a little peace in their life. Religion should bring a person inner peace, but instead it is a divisive force, causing stress and friction. I was a Witness for 27 years,pioneering and raising my children as witnesses. My husband served as an elder for many years. I think we helped a lot of people find hope in times of need. Today, although no longer witnesses, my family and I are not bitter or resentful. Certainly not in the mood to write a book discouraging witnesses. JWs offer people without hope a way out of their problems, some structure to their chaotic lives, help overcoming addictions, literacy and and a practical guide to daily living. -All good things really. People in the US have the freedom to choose their own way of worship. May all people be peaceful and free and may the way we live add to the peace and freedom in the world. I encourage all to use their time constructively, positively encouraging others and avoiding tearing each other down.
   
   Wishing all happiness in a world full of peace.



4. Has Great ideas on how to combat JW bible misconceptions. I liked the scripture references, that leave no doubt on how badly the Watchtower has twisted scripture to their own destruction. Invaluable for that next knock on your door!!



5. The 10 Most Important Things You Can Say to a Jehovah's Witness (The 10 Most Important Things)Great Little Book however my advice would be to shell out a couple more dollars and buy his Reasoning from the Scriptures with Jehovah's Witnesses - best in its genre.

5 comments about Crucible of Terror: A Story of Survival Through the Nazi Storm.

1. There's not much I can add to the other reviewer's comments other than to say it's gratifying to know Max and his wife Simone (her autobiography is twice the length of her husband's and also worth reading) are still faithful and loyal Jehovah's Witnesses to this day.
   
   Some witnesses survived the Nazi concentration camps only to succomb to materialism or immorality during the post-war times.
   
   Max wasn't the only Jew to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I surmise that a Jew is more likely to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses than they are to become a Mormon. That would make an interesting study.



2. While this gentleman's stand is certainly commendable and his story moving, there IS one aspect of the whole "Jehovah's Witnesses" in the concentration camps issue which is never touched upon by these books, but is very important.
   
   Those in the camps referred to as "Jehovah's Witnesses" were in fact Bible Students (Bibelforschers); many whom were NOT affiliated with the WT, then or after. They were all labeled with the same "purple" triangle and lumped together. These faithful Bible Students who suffered and died in these camps too, NEVER associated with the Watchtower organization and were NEVER "Jehovah's Witnesses", a name not yet adopted at the time in Germany. Out of respect for these individuals this distinction SHOULD be made.
   
   Sincerely,
   
   (Bible Student - NOT JW)



3. This account is powerful, inspiring and deeply disturbing all at the same time. It's positive proof that no amount of oppression can destroy a person's firm desire to remain true to his convictions and faith.



4. Once I started reading, I just couldn't put this book down. An incredible account of one man's struggle for survival during the Nazi regime. This is one story that no one else has ever written or heard of before. He is one-a-kind.



5. One of the better books I have read on the subject. Clear and concise. That it was written from a Jewish perspective -- somebody who could not leave any concentration camp -- made it even more insightful. We should all be aware of the history that Jehovah's Witnesses were quite successful in peacefully standing against Hitler and his regime.

5 comments about The Unchurched Next Door: Understanding Faith Stages As Keys to Sharing Your Faith.

1. Rainer did a great research on the unchurched, and in the process, developed a grading on where to place people, i.e. the Rainer Scale of U5 to U1 where U5 are the most resistant and U1 the most receptive. Rainer goes beyond what people are resistant about to show that, often times, there is history and past experiences that give people a certain perception. He also offers some approaches towards reaching and building relationships with the different categories of people.
   
   One of the important results of the study is that most people whould go to church if they were invited. Some young Christians (those who just had a relationship with Jesus) wondered why their Christian colleges, friends and neighbors never opened their mouths to invite them if having a personal relationship with Jesus is a matter of life and death, heaven or hell. People tend to feel intimidated walking into a church, and so by inviting friends there, and helping them to know their way and meet people, greatly helps. Also, some Christians have bad experiences with U5s (which constitute only about 5%) and gets turned off from inviting the unchurched or in sharing the gospel. Christians need to look to the other 95% and get over their bad experiences.
   
   Even as culture and society changes, the results in the future may change from what is presented in this book, but as for now, this research shows that there is a window of opportunity to invite the unchurched to church and leading them to a personal relationship with Jesus.



2. This book provides a helpful introduction to near-neighbor evangelism which is lacking among many Christians, myself included. The main points are that not all unchurched people are at the same place on their faith journey, and that many will come to church if they are invited, which unfortunately seldom happens.
   
   I think a couple of weaknessesshould be noted. There seems to be an underlying assumption that there is a clear path between someone coming to church and their becoming a disciple of Jesus. Rainer doesn't really help us see what that path is. The second weakness is that conversion is seen as occuring when someone pray's "the sinners prayer," "invites Jesus into their hearts," or "accepts Jesus as their personal Savior." Biblical conversion is more complex.



3. I think we need to stay mindful here that as we share Christ with those who don't know Him, they are real people, much of whom are very open to God and His Word, but are disillusioned with the church. Let us as His ambassadors not get mixed up into thinking we need to invite them to church (which is a gathering of believers), and rather invite them into our home, build a relationship and 'show' Jesus to them...it's not all about church growth; it's about growing the Kingdom of God through growing disciples!!!



4. Extremely helpful to read before going on mission doing surveys and witnessing door to door. Helped to understand where people are in the process of receiving a witness about Jesus Christ, and to not feel discouraged when they "rejected" our offer to hear the gospel. It helped us know how to pray for certain people knowing that they are either resistant, neutral, seeker, or just waiting to hear the gospel.



5. I recently finished reading The Unchurched Next Door by Thom Rainer. I had previously read his books Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Simple Church, and I found his research to be very illuminating in those books. The same is true of this book.
   For this project, Rainer had a team of interviewers conduct extensive one-on-one surveys with unchurched Americans from a wide variety of backgrounds. Rainer classifies them into five categories of unchurched. These are classified on the "Rainer scale" from a U5 (highly resistant and antogonistic to the gospel) to a U1 (high receptive to the gospel.) His researchers found that only 5% of Americans were U5's (antogonistic), and that among the remaining 95% of the unchurched, the majority would likely come to church if somebody they knew invited them and offered to go with them into the building. Here was the most interesting statistic in the book-- Answers to the question, would you be likely to go to church if invited:
   U5 (antogonistic): 0% very likely, 20% somewhat likely, for a total of 20%
   U4 (resistant but not antagonistic): 17% very likely, 45% somewhat likely, for a total of 62%
   U3 (neutral): 23% very likely, 63% somewhat likely, for a total of 86%
   U2 (receptive): 46% very likely, 51% somewhat likely, for a total of 97%
   U1 (highly receptive): 52% very likely, 45% somewhat likely, for a total of 97%
   Over and over again, Rainer pleads in this book for Christians to invite their friends to church. His plea needs to be heard.

5 comments about Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah's Witnesses.

1. I have really enjoyed this book,purchased it for an added source for a class I am preparing to teach. I have received quite a bit of solid biblical references regarding this organization. Most of this info I was already aware of, but as aI stated earlier, it has given a great biblical foundation to suppport the position of Believers in Christ.



2. This is one of the best books available on the Jehovah's Witnesses belief system. Mr. Rhodes argues his case extremely well and uses easily understandable language. I couldn't recommend this book any more highly. For a great book on what it is like to be an average Jehovah's Witness read "The Awakening of a Jehovah's Witness" by Diane Wilson. If you want to know what it is like at the top of the organization read "Crisis of Conscience" and "In Search of Christian Freedom" by Raymond FranzReasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah's Witnesses



3. I think, or so it seems, that one of the reasons why so many people that the Jehovah's Witnesses is that, well, all they are doing or trying to do is encourage people to read the bible more often. I have attended their gatherings and have come to know them as very very peacefull and a faithfull people, though as all religions , some have their bad apples and some imperfections cause we're not perfect, one of the misconceptions peple accuse the JW's is that they say or think they are perfect or that they are the right religion, yet, they offer that understanding that the person themselves can come to that conclusion if or when they want to. I have seen lots of "apostates" picketing and proping signs about the JW's I mean, come on already, get a life. If a person hates them then by all means that person should join another religion then, leave the JW's alone, live goes on. I mean I enjoy talking to them but I think that there are some who might be to over zealous.
   
   Indeed they are a small group just as the bible would comes to say that Jehovah refers his people as "his little flock". I think people despise this people is that people want to live the way they do. The types of religion people follow today allow them to live in total skeptism therefore sinning or making mistakes one can say they didnt know, know what the bible actually teaches and having that knowlegde would make them think or have a guilty concience. I guess I explained right.
   
   These are times of the end I do beleive that and the bible, not only the Witnesses beliefs, that these are times of the end. I am fascinated by the book of Revelations.



4. This is the best book I have read to date when it comes to "Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah's Witnesses". It is thorough and complete. It is well researched and put together. It summarizes the JW in such a way it is bound to get under their skin. I thought they weren't allowed to read "apostate" material. Someone notify a Kingdom Hall that Heinz and some of his buddies are being bad. Oh, and Tonya, Jesus never called the father "Jehovah". He always called Him by a title, Father.



5. I have a family member that is a Jehovah's Witness. For years and years I have simply rebuffed his attempts to discuss his religion out of fear that I was not knowledgeable enough about his beliefs based on "the Bible."
   
   I realized that I needed to not only get more familiar with my bible, but also try to determine what makes our faith so different. This book is one of the reference materials that I used to learn more about the Jehovah's Witnesses and to be able to at least discuss, somewhat intelligently, why our views and core Christian beliefs are different.
   
   I would recommend this book to those with friends and family who are Jehovah's Witnesses.

5 comments about Truth in Translation: Accuracy and Bias in English Translations of the New Testament.

1. This text is a welcome breath of fresh air from a truly unbiased author. He is critical of all versions of the New Testament and as far as I can tell, unbiased. He is not a Jehovah's Witness, so he has no reason to promote their translation above any others. I'm glad someone finally exposed the truth about John 1:1, which many denominations have used to justify the trinity belief for ages. This book examines even the minor inaccuracies in translation indexes the passages and touches on the history that may influence a particular translation. A must read for anyone seeking the absolute truth.



2. An excellent read,an academic subject written for a wider readership. The author relates the challenges involved in accurate translation of 2000 year old writing. He does so from the standpoint of a Greek language and history scholar without religiuos bias. This is a book for truth lovers only - are you up to it?



3. This book is thought provoking and very well written. Translation from the original language to modern English in the Bible should be free of religious bias. The author demonstrates the need to be accurate in Bible translation and his final conclusions are very revealing!!



4. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is deciding on what bible to read. One thing that is key to understand about this book is that it does not compare each bible in full to determine an accurate NT translation as a whole from its original Greek Manuscripts. Instead it prefers to single out what the Author perceives to be key verses/words in the bible and then compare them amongst other translations to review its authenticity in terms of freedom from bias and interpretation. So does this mean the most accurate and least accurate are really that? I would have to say no, it merely illustrates the most accurate and least accurate within the verses selected or how neutral a specific text is on an issue that can not be truly declared with certainty like some bible illustrations inaccurately do.
   
   The bibles in question are
   
   King James Version
   New Revised Standard Version
   New International Version
   New American Bible
   New American Standard Bible
   Amplified Bible
   Living Bible
   Today's English Version
   New World Translation
   
   
   The conclusion may or may not surprise you depending on which religion/bible you follow. I however was surprised and being that the victor was already revealed in previous reviews I will then repeat it again. The New World Translation(JW) was deemed the most overall accurate within the verses/words analyzed with the New American Bible(Catholic) a close second. How close of a second? I do not know. How far from accuracy are the other ones? That might end up as a matter of an opinion, because again this audit of the bible only breaks down certain aspects of the bible which means that the most accurate and least accurate may be accurate/least accurate in other areas of the bible that was not analyzed.
   
   I would have liked to see a more definitive grading scale and ranking system for each bible to see just how far apart they truly are as a whole, but again only certain aspects of the bible itself was reviewed so even then the accuracy of the declaration of accuracy can always be questioned.
   
   However overall this book is excellent and I highly recommend it for anyone regardless of the denomination.



5. I've had the pleasure of reading this very academic (and sometimes humerous) work by BeDuhn. I was not disappointed. I collect and own several bible translations, many of which are included in his review. I have to say that in the past when I've sat down to read them on differing occasions, I often felt something was not quite right about how some things were written, but couldn't put my finger on it. After reading "Truth in Translation," especially Chapter 8 entitled "Words Together and Apart," I felt that I received some long overdue answers only to come up with new questions.
   
   There are a few things that need to be said about the negative reaction to BeDuhn's research. For one thing, all of us who embrace Christianity as our faith should demand nothing less than accuracy in the translation of God's Word from koine Greek into other languages. If we (namely Protestants, JWs and others founded on Sola Scriptura) rely on the Bible as the source of inspiration and use it for direction in our lives, then what is the problem with questioning the reliability and faithfulness of the translating process? I know from personal experience in learning a different language that translating is a difficult task that requires a lot of research and thought, but in no way does that warrant saying/writing something to suit what we WANT it to say rather than what it ACTUALLY does say. We do not flatter God when we write (and therefore believe) what is or may be wrong.
   
   Another issue is the flack surrounding BeDuhn's conclusion that the NWT is one of the more accurate translations (along with the CATHOLIC New American Bible--talk about oil and water). Critics only flew off the handle because the NWT is published by Jehovah's Witnesses, and many of us know how we feel about them and their theology. (Personally, I have studied with JWs, but my issues with some of their beliefs is based on INTERPRETATION, not TRANSLATION of Scripture.) But what has that to do with Bible accuracy? Nothing. If it's more literal, then it's more literal, though I find it a bit awkward to read in terms of wording and structure. I think it's safe to say that a person outside of their organization can judge the NWT itself with fairness and even choose to read it without necessarily agreeing with Witness doctrines. But nay-sayers apparantly believe that this is not possible. What's more, ACCURATE doesn't mean PERFECT (no translation can achieve that). The NWT is critized by BeDuhn as having its own brand of bias peculiar to JWs. He dedicates an entire appendix to that. To BeDuhn, adding what's not in the original texts is as unacceptable as leaving out what is, no matter how great the intentions are.
   
   I think that it's noteworthy to add that A. Frances Warren did her own analysis concerning accuracy in the Old Testament, and according to her findings, the NWT and NAB dropped several notches in that portion of the bible. For greater details, one might also consider purchasing "Truth in Translation:...the Old Testament" by Ms. Warren. Only then can a person get the full weight of how accurate their favored translation(s) are from front to finish.
   
   So where do we go from here? Mr. BeDuhn "went there," so are we who are interested in the truth bold enough to pack our suitcases and follow? I hope that other scholars committed to fairness about this issue will pursue unbiased research of their own to give weight to and even greater clarification of BeDuhn's findings. In fact, I'm half hoping that there is some kindly old Buddhist monk or nun out there who's thoroughly fluent in reading and writing koine Greek who can accurately translate biblical manuscripts into English. He or she would have virtually no vested interest in being biased. LOL!!!
   
   On a serious note, however, I feel that BeDuhn's analysis has put us closer to the water trough, but many will still refuse to drink, even when they are dying of thirst. It will be interesting to see if publishers and translators will answer the challenge. We may well see a barrage of academic research and commentary on the subject of bible accuracy, but that won't necessarily mean bible translators, publishers and even readers will budge much. For example, publishers of the NWT will probably ignore suggested changes regarding the usage of Jehovah's name in the New Testament where it's not found. Too much of Witness dogma is staked on this, so it may be safe to say that they'd rather be guilty in that respect. As for others, we might see some changes to their texts, but not enough of it to be satisfactory. Again, embedded doctrine is a strong factor where change is resisted. At best, we may see yet another version of the bible come into existance with the claim that its true to the original manuscripts, blah blah blah. But after BeDuhn's (and Ms. Warren's) research, this time, the claim needs to be truer than it has ever been. There can be no excuses. I know I'll be watching--and reading.

5 comments about Crisis of Conscience.

1. Very organized, rich with extensive information about events that happened in the life of many with prove documents and sometimes-even photos.



2. If any book could activate the uneasy conscience of a Jehovah's Witness, it would be Ray Franz' "Crisis of Conscience". If any thing could hinder a Jehovah's Witness from reading "Crisis of Conscience", it would be the Watchtower's frequent warnings on the dangers of apostate literature. This important policy ensures that few, if any, rank and file will try to read "Crisis of Conscience" - unless their love of truth is valued more highly than their need to obey men.



3. As a Christian and baptised JW I can say that this revelation by Brother Franz has brought me much relief and understanding. Having spent 12 years actively serving in my congregation and on the verge of becoming an elder I began to re-evaluate my faith in light of scripture and in-particular the teachings of Christ. The argument over "Truth" and who's right and who's wrong will go on either until the Lord ends this system or if evolution is correct the Human species dies out.
   
   The fundamental question for myself is has Brother Franz acted wrongly by sharing with us his experiences and feelings. I have read that in some areas of the world this book has been used to "incite hatred" against JW's, but this has happened everywhere with all types of beliefs, and Brother Franz cannot be held responsible as to how others use the book.
   
   To answer this question i.e. "Should it have been written" I have to observe the witnesses I know. Most fit the mould prescribed them by the WT society as they are absolutely convinced that Christ Jesus has no other channel of communication with mankind. Such brothers and sisters fit the mould and happily serve in this capacity loyal to the WTS doing so in all sincerity through their life. Any doctrinal or personal ups and downs experienced are brushed off (sometimes as a test of faith and sometimes as demonic or apostate thinking) and such JW's often ignore the prodding's of their conscience. In essence they service the WTS as if doing so is in affect serving Jehovah and the only way to Salvation. This loyalty is not unique to the WTS members in fact anyone with a conviction to a specific religion will uphold their beliefs. That is obvious.
   
   On the other hand thousands who serve in JW congregations are in a land of limbo. They try to fit this mould prescribed above but see inconsistencies and doubt the infallibility of WT releases and teaching. They sit at Kingdom Halls feeling guilty and inadequate judging themselves on hours of service and "Theocratic" progress. Such ones cannot explain their feelings openly without being branded as one "lacking faith" or "running ahead" doctrinally. What elders would suggest is re-adjustment to WTS teachings. That is the medicine. Sadly the WTS does not cater for individuality when it comes to opinions other than those written in stone by themselves. Changed views can only come via the correct channel. Hence the dogmatism of the WTS has and is damaging thousands of genuine Christians, robbing them of individuality and indeed the chance to allow the Holy Spirit to work correctly upon them as true Christians.
   
   So was Brother Franz correct? Should he have written it? Is he an apostate? This man was in the centre, the hub of the organisation, at the level where decision and policy making occurs. He saw the inconsistencies and the control over other Christian consciences. His love for his brothers moved him to attempt to change this archaic mindset found in the Governing body, yet although not alone in his feelings he was rejected out of hand after faithful service over decades. As I myself am a "nobody" in the JW organisation (as regards high ranking) my comments and feelings cannot change anything, but Brother Franz's position could change things and indeed he tried, all to no avail. How Jehovah must weep at what is happening in the WTS. How faithful sincere men like Brother Franz have their hands tied and cannot change the way the society functions even when presented with scriptural proofs.
   
   So my summation of this book? If you are happy living in your world of control, where you believe all that is given you without testing such scripturally, and by that I mean books, watchtowers, awakes, etc...If you are happy with congregational life, meetings, and are satisfied beyond any doubt that to question the society using the Bible is apostasy then Do NOT read this book.
   
   However, if you are disfellowshipped disassociated or disillusioned at what you have experienced. If you see hypocrisy and a lack of genuine love. If you see organisational control and little Holy Spirit, then PLEASE read this book. It is written for those with questions. Those who know something is wrong with the WTS but cannot place a finger on it. In a kind and loving way without hatred or malice or retribution to fellow witnesses Brother Franz simply lays the cards on the table for you to see and then make an informed decision on the evidence, by yourself with your own mind! - As you once did when you became a witness, with your own mind.
   
   The book for me was a god-send and I give thanks to Brother Franz for his courage in presenting the world and in-particular his fellow Christians with this book. It will help anyone who lives in fear of the organisation, or in guilt, to understand why they feel that way and how to raise themselves up from an otherwise hopeless pit of doom and despair.
   
   I served for 12 years. I followed protocol. I was a yes man and moved up the ladder, yet slowly but surely I began to feel hollow inside. Like a sponge rung dry with no more to give. As I contemplated life and especially my life as a JW all I thought of was Jesus words; "Come to me you who are toiling and loaded down and I will refresh you" This just never occurred via the WTS. This scripture and its sentiment was spoken often but in essence was not applied and rather than "refreshed" I (as many others are) felt loaded down, alone, and lost. I was filled with grief, for the organisation was doing the exact opposite of Jesus commission. Control of mind and ones life robs you of Jesus kindly yolk. Absolute subjection to a human agency can only bring hurt. Five meetings a week, field service, conventions etc...keep one in check but prevent free thinking and interaction of ideas and suppress the Holy Spirit.
   
   Brother Franz shows clearly how inadequately the Governing Body functions and blows away the idea that they are in some way directly in contact with Christ Jesus. He has done this to "lift the veil" from the eyes of righteously inclined ones, those searching for truth. Hence although Brother Franz was and is disfellowshiped (excommunicated) the crime for such was eating with a disassociated man whom actually was his landlord and employer, he is no anti-Christ. In fact his love for fellow man, Jehovah and Christ has compelled him to share his experiences, not in a negative way, but in a way that can free ones mind from the enslavement to men and refocus ones mind on what being a Christian is.
   
   As regards basic doctrinal beliefs many of which were first brought together by C.T.Russel (from other sects) I hold fast to the majority, but it is the WTS's all consuming control over others, wielded by an authority structure, usurping the role of Christ Jesus that is the most upsetting. As soon as men are judged on "Works" alone, and "Works" demanded as evidence of "Spirituality" and "Loyalty" to God, then true love and true Christianity will fail. Indeed the Holy Spirit will not operate and the organisation whatever its original honourable basis will fail. Christ Jesus set us free from such enslavement when he announced he was the "Fulfilment of the Law" yet we see its ugly head (Pharisaic Law) rising up in the form of WTS control (and I hasten to add prevalent in other so-called Christian religions)
   
   I am today free from fear to express myself and can thank Brother Franz for showing me that I can be loved for who I am and not what I am or do. I still hold fast to "Truth" but not "Control" I await the "revealing of the sons of God" to obtain true clarification of who is right and wrong and of course my Judgment. But until then I thank you Brother Franz from the bottom of my heart. I will continue to call you brother as your Judgement was by the hand of men and on the basis of fear of change and fear of truth. You remain a Christian and hence a brother as do all who walk in Christian freedom. Thank you.
   I recommend Brother Franz's second book "In search of Christian Freedom"



4. If I had read this book before I never would have become a Jehovas Witnesses!
   
   The top leaders of Jehovas Witnesses are called the" Government Body".
   They are:
   1) A bunch of most incompetent pseudo "theologians", having DELIBERATELY MISTRANSLATED many verses of the bible in order to support their teachings.
   PROOF:
   They translated in their bible (called: "New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures which they praise over all other bible translation") John 14:10 "Do you not believe that I am IN UNION with the Father and the Father is in UNION with me?.......(New World Translation).
   But every other bible translates :"......I'am IN the Father, and the Father IN me? ............
   So Jesus does not speak in this verse of a union but simply says: I'm IN the Father and the Father is IN me.(Not to speak of " John I:I"a god;8:58:I'am;10:33 a god. In Revelation 5:10 we find the greek word "epi " translated "over" the earth instead "upon" the earth" but in the same chapter vers 3 the greek word "epi" is tranlated "upon" the earth.
   This is because in vers 5 the translation "upon" the earth contradicts their teachings, because they theach that those "1440000's will not rule on earth but in heaven, therefore they translated it over.
   
   So it is the Bible which has to submit to the their teachings and not the teachings to to the bible. (Now you can understand what the "New World Translation" realy is. It is a "New World misTranslation" of the Holy Scriptures" Can we realy expect a religios organisation to be guided by the holy ghost,when an organasiton deliberately mistranslates the Bible.
   Wouldn't this be an explantion why the phrophecies of Jehovas Wintesses that in I9I4,then I9I5, then I9I8, then I925,then I975 and then between I984 and I994 Armageddon would come.-never turned true-Certainly we can not expexed a religious organsation which mistranlates the Bible to be guided by the holy ghost.-
   
   2) They are the lying prophets which Jesus is speaking about, see Matthew 7:13"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves"(KJV).
   Because they told that in I9I4, I9I5, I9I8, I925, I975 and between I984 and I994 Armageddon would come. (Armageddon according to their definition = God's war to kill all evil persons, and the removal of all governments , no more wars, no more death ,no more famine, no more disease and everlasting life for Jehovas Witnesses ONLY.)
   
   SELF-PRAISE:
   
   3) They will tell you that they know the name of God.
   
   REFUTATION:
   
   But on page 7 of their booklet called" The DEVINE NAME that will endure forever" it says: "The truth is, nobody knows for sure how the name of God was originally pronounced."
   
   SELF-PRAISE
   4) They will tell you that they are the only religion who preaches worldwide.:
   
   REFUTATION:
   
   But even the Mormons (who are nothing but a cult/sect like Jehovas Witnesses are) go from door to door worldwide,the mormon cult reached even me in Austria/Eurpe, so the Jehovas Wintnesses cult can't be the only religion preaching worldwide.
   
   But the bible tells us nowhere that everyone must preach (evangelize) Ephesians 4:10:"And he gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers,". So it is the Holy Ghost who decides which job is yours and not brother Y, Elder X or Governing Body Member Z.
   
   INSIDE INFORMATION
   There are many adulterers, fornicators, hypocrites, drunkards and those who beat their wives and/or children among them, and they don't like to preach about those facts.
   
   ..........................................BEWARE OF JEHOVAS WITNESSES!!! .
   Please excuse my bad grammar.
   
   My name is nebojsa kostic and I was a Jehovas Witnesses for almost 25 years.
   nick_collin@gmx.at



5. Instead of the usual rant against the Jehovah's Witnesses and their theocratic organization, Franz presents a reasonable, spiritually insightful description of his experiences as a member of their Governing Body and maintains a thoughtful, fair-minded tone throughout the book. This approach was exactly what I needed to supplement my own evaluation of the Witnesses.
   
   While ultimately critical of the organization he was associated with for over 50 years, Franz does not inflate his charges and offers Biblical backing and solid empirical evidence for his conclusions.
   
   Although the reader is asked to slog through much tedious documentation in the text of this book, the letters and articles Franz includes are essential to show that his experiences have not been fabricated or exaggerated.
   
   Those sincerely seeking to understand the Witnesses and their organization will be interested in what Franz has to say; those merely looking to fuel their prejudices will be supremely bored. He that has ears to hear, will hear.