a very dangerous cult. In that conversation they spent a lot of time gas lighting you with unfounded accusations that people in the congregation are being "disturbed" by you and yet never giving any evidence. They also give false/misleading representations of their beliefs - claiming that they don't believe you'll be destroyed. I was always told that God has no forgiveness for those who knew him and rejected him and that is equated to leaving the JWs. They talk down to you as if they have any real authority over you and as though they know things you don't (classic JW tactic) - almost like you should be pitied. Ultimately they never address the main question - why are you Dfing me now when I haven't been going to meetings for so long. The first elder even advises you to fade which is what you did. Surely though, if that's his advice, there must be a point in the fading when you cease to be a JW and are no longer under their rules, and can post whatever you want just like a normal person, therefore being seen as a normal non JW by them and so not shunned and not DF'd. They never have and never will make sense - they are dangerous, manipulative and totally brainwashed. All the best with your journey out.
Had a similar situation during COVID. They just couldn't leave us alone. I told them, "We're at home living our life. Do whatever y'all do." They couldn't understand that I didn't recognize their authority anymore. It would be like an employer calling you after you quit to inform you they're firing you. It's absolutely meaningless.
SO AWESOME!! And SO TRUE!! They have only the Authority you GIVE them. And when you realize that "authority" in reality is non-existent... it's FREEDOM, baby!!😅 🙌 🖖
I had faded years ago. One day I came home from work and an elder was sitting in his car in my driveway, waiting me to get home. He immediately started interrogating me. When told him I wasn’t interested in coming back, he said “Why don’t you just disassociate yourself?” What a loving organization…NOT.
@@ranles1 sounds about right! They showed up to our house uninvited multiple times. When we didn't answer, they kept coming back. They called, I didn't answer. They called from a number I didn't know and finally got me on the phone. Then they'd just pop up or call every couple months asking me to disassociate. It was so ridiculous.
This was one of the reasons that my wife and I made the decision to disassociate ourselves. It was made pretty clear that simply 'fading' would still result in remaining on the books as "inactive ones" and so we would still get check ins every now and then to see if we want to go back. We wanted nothing to do with the cult at all anymore, and as hard as it was, we decided that a cold-turkey disassociation was the only way to get the clean break we wanted.
@@nightpixma definitely think there would have been a benefit to disassocating sooner but part of me is glad it happened this way because it shows how controlling they are when people leave
This was a perfect example of how elders work. When you ask them a question they can’t answer without sounding unloving, they tap dance around and never answer the damn question.
I was born into this cult. I was abused as a child, beaten very badly, by my stepdad and Mother. There were many in the congregation who knew what was going on and did nothing. We moved to preach where the need was great when I was 15, and as soon as I turned 16 I ran away from home and went back to London. I sought out some of the people in the congregation I'd been brought up in and they treated me like something they stepped in. I'm an adult with my own 2 children now, and I have cptsd from that. I've spent my adult life railing against them and trying to get them stopped. They're a cult that hides pedophiles and they should be banned from raising children. Norway has got the right idea. I still have nightmares every night about what they did. They disgust me.
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I was also born and raised into this pedophile protecting cult. It sickens me, I will never stop advocating against them. They’re being exposed!
I was born in. I woke up 5 years ago, now elderly. I suffered as a child. So glad I woke up. I'll be rejoicing with you when Watchtower bites the dust. Greetings from Texas to UK.
@@johannajames7824 my mum had the same up bringing with her dad and step mum. All of her siblings got badly beaten, and she lost one of her brothers because their dad and religion refused him blood. He was only 16 years old. My mum still gets flashbacks from the abuse and losing her brother. Her dad was an elder and no one helped my mum or her siblings, they turned a blind eye when they asked for help. I don't know why I joined the religion in the first place. The KH I was in had a pedo, and he dated one of my aunts, apparently she didn't know he was one, my mum let her elder brother know that she was dating him (my aunt had 3 kids living under her roof at the time. She wasn't happy with my mum and had to move congregations. No one sat next to him, but his son allowed his own kids hug or greet him
I respond anecdotally as a former bethelite & elder who’s sat on & presided over many judicial & appeal committees internationally for many years: These guys only have as much authority as you give them! Your individual engagement tacitly recognizes & acknowledges their position. Silently ignoring them is your single greatest & most powerful weapon!
I agree to an extent. However, I tried to avoid contact and they continued to reach out and stop by our house though I wasn't engaging with them in any way. They called from different numbers and everything. Tried to go through family to confront us. This was causing me a lot of anxiety and I was tired of letting that stress me out. So I finally spoke to them. I am glad they disfellowshipped us because it means they don't reach out at all anymore. Makes me wish I'd disassociated years before just to avoid the harassment from elders.
@@questionscommentsconcerns I certainly don’t mean to denigrate your experience & am very happy that things have finally turned out well for you. Having dealt with these kinds of issues at higher levels within the organization, I am not acquainted with a single country that allows the harassment of its citizens by any church, let alone WT. The elders who did as you describe, crossed serious legal boundaries and jeopardized the congregation’s status. What’s sad is that WT would not step in to defend their position if you’d stood up to them legally. I remember at least one specific case where we had to threaten a body of overzealous elders with removal of their positions. Of course they acquiesced.
@@LePedantSemantique oh no, I don't feel that you were invalidating our experience or anything. We'd already lost the family/friends that we were going to lose and being disfellowshipped didn't change anything for us. We tried to fade and thought we had successfully. But even then, we were being shunned. What country were you in?
The first mistake we made was opening the door for Jehovah's Witnesses and the second was listening to them. But your biggest mistake, was believing that they are God's organization and that they have some kind of authority. We were wrong on all accounts! Do not give them the time of day.
@@larpsim You make very good points. It’s taken me many years to finally realize that. They’re like a virus that our body succumbs to. If a Catholic priest or Buddhist monk showed up to our door demanding answers from us we’d be like: “WTF Dude??? Get the hell outta here!!!” Yet when JW elders are involved, we act like they have some kind of special powers. 🤷♂️
The first Elder you spoke with in the conversation not only didn't answer your question but was obviously uncomfortable in himself and will likely be part of your life as a friend in the future after he and his family leave as well. I'm 67 years old and was born in. I raised my own family in before fading about 20 years ago. You are making the right decision by getting yourself and your family out of the indoctrination before it destroys their lives as well as your own. Thanks for your time and efforts to share and look forward to your channel in future.
I was never a JW and never will be one, but I did lose my best friend years ago to that cult. Being a born-again Christian, I studied about the organization, armed myself with knowledge, my Bible and tried to talk her out of it by showing her proof of their lies. 😂😂 Well, it went about as well as you'd expect. She hasn't spoken to me in 40 years. Last thing her new husband told me is: You're an apostate. It's a badge I wear with pride.
@@Estee.Ar.6869 we've definitely had our moments of feeling scared. Especially of losing family and friends. For you to leave also took a lot of bravery!
@@georgebauerschmidt5289 for some, I would agree. However, I had some friends who were friends. If it weren't for belonging to a religion that forces them to not speak to me, we would still be friends. If they left, I'd still be here for them.
@@questionscommentsconcerns I'm hoping if they are friends, perhaps you can share with them your reasons, as well as the many problems this organization has that may help them find a way out so you both can resume your friendship. You have discovered what many never see the US vs THEM mentality which is not a good mindset nor is anything either Jesus or the Bible teaches.
Thanks Micah.. I got a phone call, then a week later my registered letter came in saying I was DF’ed. At least we have proof this is the way it happens.
Oooof that was a familiar sounding conversation. Generally I've found that Dogma is more important to Jehovah’s Witnesses than application. Glad to gave you on "The Dark Side" with us Micah. We need you out here, spreading truth to combat Watchtower lies 🩵
You were so respectful. Your a kind and loving person. We all should be allowed to follow our own truth. Disfellowshipping is a way to control and belittle and try to shame.
There's no winning with JWs. Either you submit or get disfellowshipped. My family have shunned me for 35 years because they said I sounded like an apostate
You can leave... Just STFU about us and your experiences as a JW. Thanks for sharing. So valuable when we share our stories and expose the absolutely unloving beliefs and practices of that organization.
It's insane how they all do and say and act the same no matter where u are...it's such a pathetic ego flex of power that they imagine they have. Good job staying calm, as I would have lost it a few times😂
@@andymoon5752 that's the new personality. Just taking away people's self and turning them into robots. I'm glad you thought I stayed calm. I definitely felt myself getting agitated!
Amazing video, I’m currently an unbaptized bisexual physically in mentally out JW. Hopefully one day I’ll have the courage to completely leave this awful organization lol
Do it slowly, fade, pull back. It doesn't have to be all at once. The Organization sees this as a job? Quiet quit. Take it in small steps, whatever that means to you.
I say just stop going and dont even bother talking when they call you. Just go build your new life already. They aren't OWED your loyalty. You DO, however, owe it to yourself to live.
At school I used to be bullied a lot. One sunday I was in field service and my worst fear became true, one of them saw me. When next monday I went to school fearing for my life they sat around me all somber looking and said "dude you are a Jehovahs. You have to run away from home man, this ain't no life." I thought that was crazy, I even laughed at them. Last year when I turned 40 it dawned on me, god dammit they were right. This is how serious this is. I know it's hard, I don't know how much you love your family and friends but I really hope you can muster the courage because this thing you are in is a tragedy of cosmic proportions.
Plan well your escape. What organisations will support you when you bid adieu?? Make friends of both genders "now" so when you leave you have support. What sports are you interested in ?? Make friends in them for a support base. Irrespective of your gender, you must be prepared when you leave Be prepared to lose family but have them replaced by others who have UNCONDITIONAL love in this world which has understanding and support mechanisms for people who have been and are still psychologically abused.
Great response!🎉 Good for you! I disassociated over 2 1/2 yrs ago! I think this new ( disfellowshipping on the phone) will be the norm! Such cowards! Get ready inactive ones, I think D-Day is on the way! 🎉 Prayers for you & your family!😢💔🙏♥️
I love how he legit has to pause to think about the Mormon question and realizes how dumb his rebuttal towards you speaking out and disagreeing with him is just practically stupid his argument is completely nonsensical typical elders 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I really loved your first video and was looking forward to hear more from you. Watching this now and even though we’re not removed from the congregation yet our experience is very similar so far. Might do a couple videos myself soon.
Thanks for sharing! I hope this shows how suppressed and controlled people become when they get roped in such cults.. Man, the awkward silence after your questions and the way they try to dodge them! I've seen that myself when I tried to reason with them. It's a pain to watch.. It almost makes you feel embarrassed for them :(
I’m sorry they did that! So much for what Geoffrey Jackson said at the ARC about them NOT being like Cops! I faded in 2018, and an elder recently stopped by to see my family member I live with, and offering the member a Shepherding call (for no apparent reason, and no request for it, but so far, no time set. A CO visited the congregation a few weeks ago. You know they got to see me being in an apparent“black hole” as loose ties they want to tie up, tie off and toss away once and for all. I don’t because of circumstances, so…back to my black hole👋👋😁I’m so glad you and your family are free, though! Do you realize how hard it is to wake up from a cult? You beat the odds! Yay you guys!! Big win!!
@@kdrazalotg-usa6345 that's exactly why I worded the question about people having left the religion after a certain time because of what Geoffrey Jackson said at the Australian Royal Commission
@@alexpeace7603 I have asked nearly every JW elder that has confronted me if that would be loving. And they all avoid answering because they don't want to be critical of their own religion.
@@ProdigalSonMatt I meant this more as a hypothetical situation; however, I've read stories of former Mormons being treated poorly by family for leaving the church. Even if it's not the official teaching of the church to shun, it is still the reality for some former members.
The elder didn't want to answer because the question forced him to think about it and he probably realized he couldn't win.excellent analogy by the way
@@questionscommentsconcerns I’m just genuinely fascinated by the JW religion. Like, in my faith we are actively encouraged to seek higher education. In my branch we have a medical doctor, lawyer, ph.d in biochemistry, a counselor, and me a nurse. Then I just seen an elder training video from the JW religion and the father is getting disfellowshipped bet his daughter was accepted into college 😱
Yes one can certainly make decisions for themselves.....but when it comes to a jw leaving, there is consequences, like these men have no direct honest answers to. Any how , how come "they " know about instagram posts. Jws are NOT to look outside the religions information.
Two things- God institutes the family, yet the JW creates discord among the family. Jesus is coming to judge the world, yet the JW judge the members, saying that they are going to judiciary meeting. It's crazy.
@@questionscommentsconcerns They have to understand that we are no longer AFRAID of their threats! It's so funny because they are the ones backed up into the wall. Im done with JW religion
Awww they were "FORCED" to give you "corrective discipline" tsk tsk poor grown men who can'tthink for themselves. 😂 WOW he literally said if you just SHUT UP about it, you'd be FINE & they'd leave you alone!!! 😡🤮 They make so siiiiiiiiick
Hey Micah and Taylor, sorry if I misspelled your names. I was born and raised JW for 32 years. This year I was going back to meeting after being inactive for a few years and I was feeling defeated because the religion doesn’t make me happy. I was doing it more for my family to love me again. Anyways, one night I decided to pray like Jesus. I prayed to the father(not Jehovah) and asked him to reveal the real Jesus to me. I kid you not, that same night I was reading 2 Corinthians and when I got to 5:10 and I saw Jesus is the judge and repayer. I clicked on the footnote and it took me to Revelations 22:12. Jesus is speaking in revelation in the JW Bible. I couldn’t believe it, all this time Jesus was right there. What I’m trying to say is, don’t let this diabolical religion keep you away from Jesus. He is the truth, the way, the light. He said the truth will set you free and that’s exactly what happened to me. I’m no longer a slave to “Jehovah” who is just Satan behind the scenes - 2 Corinthians 4:4. Much love
Don’t worry, there is no fucking new system gifted to those who can’t feel empathy for others or don’t have a conscience who worship a god who expects everything but returns breadcrumbs.
As a former Elder I can express that Elders serve for themselves. It's a power trip for the individual elder and they can care less about the individual publishers. Witness kids being molested and the parents of molested kids commiting suicide. And yet the laughter from our shepherding elders? I've seen sidewalk lemonade stands ran more professionally than what I was appointed to help out with. Holy spirit? Remember.... "We're not inspired...or apologize".
WOW. I never had the chance to appeal. LOL. They told me that it would be announced at the next meeting and to refrain from talking to anyone in the congregation before they announced it. 🤣🤣🤣
I wouldve spent the whole call asking him “what qualifications do you have to counsel anybody on any topic?” I would further attack his education and his profession by saying “why would I take any life advice from a (insert his day job)” lets say he’s a “window washer” … I would say “the only thing you are qualified to give counsel on is what is the best cleaning supply to wash a window with” 😂
Man, seems like the Elders are a lot nicer now than when I grew up as a JW in the early 80’s. When the Elders kicked you out back then you would think Jehovah was about to rain down brimstones as soon as you left the meeting. Glad you’re out
You tube timer 11:38 Not only is this Elder not very bright, but he doesn't sound educated. He engages in a great deal of non sequitur, he waffles, doesn't answer your questions directly, and deflects. He sounds unsure of himself, and this is what I tell persons. "Why would you hand your life over to another persons to do what they want with it, like this man? I am an old lady, and I would say, "Listen. You pee, poop, and fart," just like any other person. There is nothing special about you or Watchtower.
So, just when do they allow Jesus to do the judging of his sheep? What authority do they have to take these actions? The Governing Body stated they are not inspired. So, how do they get to take the role of God by judging his sheep? Just asking!
@@hikikomori_999 lol every JW who I've asked refuses to answer it unless they actually think shunning is wrong. And they'll tell me that it's not okay but wouldn't dare voice that opinion to other witnesses
do these Elders lose points or some benefits when people leave? I'm curious why they try so hard to invest their time to "re-recruit" someone or convince them to come back? You can't tell me this guy has a deep loving concern that really worries about his future. There has to be some hit they are taking they would invest this much conversation. I'm not convinced this Elder is going to lose sleep over the personal soul of one that has left, there is a hidden agenda that is a bigger worry, and it must be something he loses.
I've a friend who's about the same age as me who got disfellowshipped. He had been baptized somewhere around 12 or so. I met him through the local congregation when I used to attend meetings. We both grew up, lost oue belief in God but our family members still remained witnesses. Since I never got baptized, my mom is still allowed to talk to me despite my non belief. But since he "chose" to get baptized as a kid and now doesn't believe, he has very limited contact with his family, mainly so his kids can see his parents. It's a sad situation for him and his family...luckily for me, I never got baptized.
When anyone leaves for conscientious reasons, EVERYONE SHOULD BE DISTURBED! But, no, they dont want anyone to know about it. They want people to think that you committed a serious sin. They want you to sit down, shut up & accept preditors in the congregation..
Don't go back there. They lie when you expose their behavior. They will say that they dont treat people that way which is a lie. Once you are disfellowshipped or disassociated from their congregation they will be treated with disdain.
You can leave as long as you don't do your research on what is being said. Also how can my decisions influence your spiritually if you are strong in your conviction. I don't get it
I'm an ex jw. Was born in but left in the 90s. I thankfully never got baptized. Every few years or so they show up at my door even though I told them to stop. I've been here 16 years and they keep hoping I moved so they can recruit someone else lol But I loved your ending statement. You leave one religion then others try to get you to join theirs. People can't seem to be happy in their own beliefs and want to push it onto others still no matter the religion.
You Tube timer 3:39 For all you know, Kingdom Hall attendance is really down, and they are "clearing the books" because the Kingdom Hall is going to be sold, in which case the WTBTS pockets the money, it really isn't going to any world wide work, just their "coffers."
the trouble with JW;s is they think they are God and they think the congregation is so beneath them it's called pride and they are full of it. they need to know that we are ALL sinners that levels everything. that puts them in the same boat as everyone else. God hates pride they need to correct their thinking and repent JWs before it's too late! thank you for putting up this video. excellent I used to be one of them and I say it with shame. like you i got smart celebrate the freedom! No I am not ashamed anymore just blessed being a Christian
I dissaciated myself years ago I knew something was wrong with that faith. If they can show me in the bible where Jesus treated anyone the way JW treats their member then we can speak about that organisation as being truth.
@@ShawnetteHarris funny enough, telling them I didn't believe in God wasn't that big of an issue. It was speaking against the organization that made them come after us
Well first ~ I do nor know exactly ~ WHY ~ a body of Elders would take such a direct decision toward both of YOU . I have learned that when such decisions are made is to protect folks that are focused in a direction that is known to all of US. So the body of Elders are there as a protection for all members of the congregation and that includes YOU both. What this individual said that you be put to death , etc. He should have more clear on why he would say such a statement. He did not mean NO harm. But if you look at the big picture and if you would remain in this path and DO NOT make adjustments to correct what ever YOU are doing that seems as an eye opener. And of course what ever it is it has to given attention to YOU so YOU all would escape eternal death. So the brother was not acting in a wrong way; to be a bother to YOU all but he for got to explain why he said that to YOU both. Thank you for your time. *J here ~ in Houston , Texas. :)
Geoffrey Jackson: "If someone chooses to, they can dissociate." (When Elders show up unannounced, make harassing phone calls as well as possibly Elders, or even visit work places). Side stepping the questions. One I heard was "We're not here to debate the scriptures" when he was asked "Please show me the scripture that states one should lose their network (family and friends). I do agree with the Elder when he mentions things on the Internet. I guess if we heard Geoffrey Jackson, David Namn, Philip Brumley (ect), not lie in court, people would feel differently.
You are giving these elders way more authority than they have i.e. zero. You must warn the elders that a public announcement to disfellowship your wife and the subsequent shunning is a violation of human rights in that it incites hatred and discrimination for religious views. Subsequently you will sue the announcer personally and the organization for defamation. You will also go to the local media and government representative to make them aware of this abhorrent practice. The elders will need to escalate this threat through the ranks of the JW hierarchy and they will back off. They are considered a cult through and through and any publicity of their practices that confirm this only solidifies the greater resolve to have them put out of business.
Were you in a Stockbridge Ga congregation? I am in the Atlanta area, born into the religion, left a few years ago after the ARC . Just wondering if you were in Ga.
I thought nothing could separate us from Christ love?? Now we have the JW Real estate investment corporation judging ..😢... Youre better off without them..
I was df'd 36 years ago, laughable behaviour on the part of the elders if not so tragic. When my daughter woke up 12 years ago I advised her strongly to ignore the elders, to not respond, to break free from their 'authority' and so she just faded, was left alone, not df'd. Its realising early on that they have no authority whatsoever over you thats the key. 0:37
And when a person becomes spiritual sick why turn your back on them? It’s just like being sick and you go to the doctor and he turns you away. Make it make sense!
I think a high control religion would want you to believe that if you leave that particular religion, you would be destroyed. They make you believe that their religion is the only way to salvation, when the Bible teaches that only Jesus is "the way, the truth and the light." ALL AUTHORITY was given to Jesus, which means there's nothing left over to anyone else. Still, we must honor and respect ALL authority for the time being, because it is the will of God. The decisions the organization make don't impact your relationship with God.( ROMANS 8:38,39 ) The elders do that kind of stuff because, as one of the elders said : "...to send a message..." , in other words, they want to convey the message (to others) that you shouldn't be doing anything that would damage the reputation of the organization. They are protecting the financial interest of the organization as well as the whole integrity of their operation. All authorities are in their relative places and a congregant shouldn't complain or "attack" the doctrines of the church outside the scope of the administration. All internal affairs should be dealt privately. If you disagree, then you make your own decisions to remain in association with the religious organization or not. You are free to stay (quiet) or go. Jesus, as the head of ALL the Christians congregations, oversees ALL these issues and through Holy Spirit will resolve them in HIS time. We must trust Jesus with this and don't try to solve these problems in our own terms. The religion gains power when you surrender your will to them. God is not in the religion. God is inside of you, if you accept Him by faith and continuously have a relationship with Him. There are no temples. We are the temples of the Holy Spirit. There is no Mosaic law anymore. We obey the law of Christ (love). Religion is a discipline, just as the financial systems and the political systems are. This is all we have until Jesus comes back. They are imperfect organizations, led by people who are imperfect. The religions are changing, some faster than others and people are changing as well. God's law remains the same. We must uphold the same moral laws and values that God gave us in order to be found in peace and holy. Surrender your will and obey God alone through the teachings of the Bible. Accept Holy Spirit to guide you. Men, because of their imperfection, will disappoint you, fail you and deceive you with intentional lies or apostasy teachings. The Bible and the Holy Spirit is ALL you need. Association at a church is very good for your mental health and is advisable because we, as humans, are social beings. Being disfellowshipped ( or the newest term being used by JW : "removed from the congregation") is not the end of the world. God is not constricted to a single religion. God is not partial. ALL barriers were broken when Jesus died. There's no excuse for you not to know God or serve Him. You worship Him in "truth and spirit", because God is spirit. The church is just an expansion of the worship you do at home... Love God with your precious things : Your heart, mind, strength and soul. Love your neighbor as you love yourself. "By this they all know that you are my disciples; if you have love amongst yourselves." Love is the fulfillment of the law....
I REALLY BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE SHOULD BE HOLDING THESE ELDERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS AGAINST THE RANK AND FILE IN WAYS THAT THOSE WATCHTOWERS MUSCLE/ELDERS WILL NEVER FORGET!!! READ BETWEEN THE LINES.....
a very dangerous cult. In that conversation they spent a lot of time gas lighting you with unfounded accusations that people in the congregation are being "disturbed" by you and yet never giving any evidence. They also give false/misleading representations of their beliefs - claiming that they don't believe you'll be destroyed. I was always told that God has no forgiveness for those who knew him and rejected him and that is equated to leaving the JWs. They talk down to you as if they have any real authority over you and as though they know things you don't (classic JW tactic) - almost like you should be pitied. Ultimately they never address the main question - why are you Dfing me now when I haven't been going to meetings for so long. The first elder even advises you to fade which is what you did. Surely though, if that's his advice, there must be a point in the fading when you cease to be a JW and are no longer under their rules, and can post whatever you want just like a normal person, therefore being seen as a normal non JW by them and so not shunned and not DF'd. They never have and never will make sense - they are dangerous, manipulative and totally brainwashed. All the best with your journey out.
Had a similar situation during COVID. They just couldn't leave us alone. I told them, "We're at home living our life. Do whatever y'all do." They couldn't understand that I didn't recognize their authority anymore. It would be like an employer calling you after you quit to inform you they're firing you. It's absolutely meaningless.
SO AWESOME!! And SO TRUE!! They have only the Authority you GIVE them. And when you realize that "authority" in reality is non-existent... it's FREEDOM, baby!!😅 🙌 🖖
Like their religion, meaningless.
I had faded years ago. One day I came home from work and an elder was sitting in his car in my driveway, waiting me to get home. He immediately started interrogating me. When told him I wasn’t interested in coming back, he said “Why don’t you just disassociate yourself?” What a loving organization…NOT.
@@ranles1 sounds about right! They showed up to our house uninvited multiple times. When we didn't answer, they kept coming back. They called, I didn't answer. They called from a number I didn't know and finally got me on the phone. Then they'd just pop up or call every couple months asking me to disassociate. It was so ridiculous.
@@questionscommentsconcernshas anyone ever told you that you have an African American dialect ?
@@cubonefan3 Lol I've been told similar things before
This was one of the reasons that my wife and I made the decision to disassociate ourselves.
It was made pretty clear that simply 'fading' would still result in remaining on the books as "inactive ones" and so we would still get check ins every now and then to see if we want to go back.
We wanted nothing to do with the cult at all anymore, and as hard as it was, we decided that a cold-turkey disassociation was the only way to get the clean break we wanted.
@@nightpixma definitely think there would have been a benefit to disassocating sooner but part of me is glad it happened this way because it shows how controlling they are when people leave
This was a perfect example of how elders work. When you ask them a question they can’t answer without sounding unloving, they tap dance around and never answer the damn question.
I was born into this cult. I was abused as a child, beaten very badly, by my stepdad and Mother. There were many in the congregation who knew what was going on and did nothing. We moved to preach where the need was great when I was 15, and as soon as I turned 16 I ran away from home and went back to London. I sought out some of the people in the congregation I'd been brought up in and they treated me like something they stepped in. I'm an adult with my own 2 children now, and I have cptsd from that. I've spent my adult life railing against them and trying to get them stopped. They're a cult that hides pedophiles and they should be banned from raising children. Norway has got the right idea. I still have nightmares every night about what they did. They disgust me.
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I was also born and raised into this pedophile protecting cult. It sickens me, I will never stop advocating against them. They’re being exposed!
I’m so sorry you went through all that, and they betrayed you!
I am sorry you went through that. But never forget that Jesus loves you. I am not a JW by the way. I hope you find a proper loving church.
I was born in. I woke up 5 years ago, now elderly. I suffered as a child. So glad I woke up. I'll be rejoicing with you when Watchtower bites the dust. Greetings from Texas to UK.
@@johannajames7824 my mum had the same up bringing with her dad and step mum. All of her siblings got badly beaten, and she lost one of her brothers because their dad and religion refused him blood. He was only 16 years old. My mum still gets flashbacks from the abuse and losing her brother. Her dad was an elder and no one helped my mum or her siblings, they turned a blind eye when they asked for help. I don't know why I joined the religion in the first place.
The KH I was in had a pedo, and he dated one of my aunts, apparently she didn't know he was one, my mum let her elder brother know that she was dating him (my aunt had 3 kids living under her roof at the time. She wasn't happy with my mum and had to move congregations. No one sat next to him, but his son allowed his own kids hug or greet him
I respond anecdotally as a former bethelite & elder who’s sat on & presided over many judicial & appeal committees internationally for many years:
These guys only have as much authority as you give them!
Your individual engagement tacitly recognizes & acknowledges their position.
Silently ignoring them is your single greatest & most powerful weapon!
I agree to an extent. However, I tried to avoid contact and they continued to reach out and stop by our house though I wasn't engaging with them in any way. They called from different numbers and everything. Tried to go through family to confront us.
This was causing me a lot of anxiety and I was tired of letting that stress me out. So I finally spoke to them. I am glad they disfellowshipped us because it means they don't reach out at all anymore. Makes me wish I'd disassociated years before just to avoid the harassment from elders.
@@questionscommentsconcerns I certainly don’t mean to denigrate your experience & am very happy that things have finally turned out well for you.
Having dealt with these kinds of issues at higher levels within the organization, I am not acquainted with a single country that allows the harassment of its citizens by any church, let alone WT.
The elders who did as you describe, crossed serious legal boundaries and jeopardized the congregation’s status. What’s sad is that WT would not step in to defend their position if you’d stood up to them legally.
I remember at least one specific case where we had to threaten a body of overzealous elders with removal of their positions. Of course they acquiesced.
@@LePedantSemantique oh no, I don't feel that you were invalidating our experience or anything. We'd already lost the family/friends that we were going to lose and being disfellowshipped didn't change anything for us.
We tried to fade and thought we had successfully. But even then, we were being shunned.
What country were you in?
The first mistake we made was opening the door for Jehovah's Witnesses and the second was listening to them. But your biggest mistake, was believing that they are God's organization and that they have some kind of authority. We were wrong on all accounts! Do not give them the time of day.
@@larpsim You make very good points.
It’s taken me many years to finally realize that. They’re like a virus that our body succumbs to.
If a Catholic priest or Buddhist monk showed up to our door demanding answers from us we’d be like:
“WTF Dude??? Get the hell outta here!!!”
Yet when JW elders are involved, we act like they have some kind of special powers. 🤷♂️
There are many religious cults out there.This is one of the most deceptive ones.
A true Christian cannot be disfellowshipped.. Your salvation adopts you into the family of God!
Sincerely in Christ... * Not the Jehovah's Witnesses and their dangerous ( CULT ) and backstabbing ( Elders ) and their LIES ! ! :)
they claim they are not a cult. I beg to differ
I could hear his brain sizzle over that Mormon question.
The first Elder you spoke with in the conversation not only didn't answer your question but was obviously uncomfortable in himself and will likely be part of your life as a friend in the future after he and his family leave as well. I'm 67 years old and was born in. I raised my own family in before fading about 20 years ago. You are making the right decision by getting yourself and your family out of the indoctrination before it destroys their lives as well as your own. Thanks for your time and efforts to share and look forward to your channel in future.
The org accepts apostates only when they are converting to a JW. He couldn't answer the question because it makes sense.
I was never a JW and never will be one, but I did lose my best friend years ago to that cult.
Being a born-again Christian, I studied about the organization, armed myself with knowledge, my Bible and tried to talk her out of it by showing her proof of their lies. 😂😂
Well, it went about as well as you'd expect. She hasn't spoken to me in 40 years. Last thing her new husband told me is: You're an apostate.
It's a badge I wear with pride.
Thank you for sharing and exposing JWs. You two are brave! I was so scared when I faded 18 years ago.
@@Estee.Ar.6869 we've definitely had our moments of feeling scared. Especially of losing family and friends. For you to leave also took a lot of bravery!
@@questionscommentsconcerns you didn't lose friends. They weren't your friends by choice, only by common mindset.
@@georgebauerschmidt5289 for some, I would agree. However, I had some friends who were friends. If it weren't for belonging to a religion that forces them to not speak to me, we would still be friends. If they left, I'd still be here for them.
@@questionscommentsconcerns I'm hoping if they are friends, perhaps you can share with them your reasons, as well as the many problems this organization has that may help them find a way out so you both can resume your friendship. You have discovered what many never see the US vs THEM mentality which is not a good mindset nor is anything either Jesus or the Bible teaches.
Thanks Micah.. I got a phone call, then a week later my registered letter came in saying I was DF’ed. At least we have proof this is the way it happens.
@@OurBossiAdventures exactly! There was no judicial committee or anything. Just a call saying this is what we're doing.
Oooof that was a familiar sounding conversation. Generally I've found that Dogma is more important to Jehovah’s Witnesses than application. Glad to gave you on "The Dark Side" with us Micah. We need you out here, spreading truth to combat Watchtower lies 🩵
You were so respectful. Your a kind and loving person. We all should be allowed to follow our own truth. Disfellowshipping is a way to control and belittle and try to shame.
Elders always talk like they are nervous and unsure about what they are saying.
@@bigd213d I think part of it is they were in public and afraid to say what they believed because they know it's shameful
There's no winning with JWs. Either you submit or get disfellowshipped. My family have shunned me for 35 years because they said I sounded like an apostate
They'll call you back when "The Governing body has decided"
@@Wallows19441
The Governing Body are God??
Same bro. I was DFd back in 2009.
As far as I'm concerned I couldn't give a f*** and yet somehow this stuff still ends up on my for you page lol
@@robertgrey6101
No, the governing body is higher than god, it tells god what to do and say (its interpretation of course 😂).
He is fighting natural human thinking . He can't answer the question honestly. You can't control somebody questioning the teaching
@@leetrippii1830 absolutely just shutting down and avoiding the question
You can leave... Just STFU about us and your experiences as a JW.
Thanks for sharing.
So valuable when we share our stories and expose the absolutely unloving beliefs and practices of that organization.
@@RonPOMO-ps9fm right, just don't live your life where anybody knows you had the gall to stand up for what you believe
Just tell them they're not gonna be seeing you ever again and get he hell out.
It's insane how they all do and say and act the same no matter where u are...it's such a pathetic ego flex of power that they imagine they have. Good job staying calm, as I would have lost it a few times😂
@@andymoon5752 that's the new personality. Just taking away people's self and turning them into robots.
I'm glad you thought I stayed calm. I definitely felt myself getting agitated!
You saved yourselves from a satanic cult.
💯
Yay! Another video from you guys!
Amazing video, I’m currently an unbaptized bisexual physically in mentally out JW.
Hopefully one day I’ll have the courage to completely leave this awful organization lol
@@beau_sauce_god2676 you can definitely do it. Whatever you do, please don't get baptized!
Do it slowly, fade, pull back. It doesn't have to be all at once. The Organization sees this as a job? Quiet quit. Take it in small steps, whatever that means to you.
I say just stop going and dont even bother talking when they call you. Just go build your new life already. They aren't OWED your loyalty. You DO, however, owe it to yourself to live.
At school I used to be bullied a lot. One sunday I was in field service and my worst fear became true, one of them saw me. When next monday I went to school fearing for my life they sat around me all somber looking and said "dude you are a Jehovahs. You have to run away from home man, this ain't no life." I thought that was crazy, I even laughed at them. Last year when I turned 40 it dawned on me, god dammit they were right. This is how serious this is. I know it's hard, I don't know how much you love your family and friends but I really hope you can muster the courage because this thing you are in is a tragedy of cosmic proportions.
Plan well your escape.
What organisations will support you when you bid adieu??
Make friends of both genders "now" so when you leave you have support.
What sports are you interested in ?? Make friends in them for a support base.
Irrespective of your gender, you must be prepared when you leave
Be prepared to lose family but have them replaced by others who have UNCONDITIONAL love in this world which has understanding and support mechanisms for people who have been and are still psychologically abused.
I loved your questions. You really made him think about his responses.
Great response!🎉 Good for you! I disassociated over 2 1/2 yrs ago! I think this new ( disfellowshipping on the phone) will be the norm! Such cowards! Get ready inactive ones, I think D-Day is on the way! 🎉 Prayers for you & your family!😢💔🙏♥️
I'm ready. There's lots of EXJW meetups happening.
The elder got badly cornered as you waited patiently for his explanations…❤
you handled it nicely. proud of you and hope you can find your peace and freedom now
I love how he legit has to pause to think about the Mormon question and realizes how dumb his rebuttal towards you speaking out and disagreeing with him is just practically stupid his argument is completely nonsensical typical elders 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You did SO GREAT!! 👏 👏 👏 Im so proud of every new person who gets FREE of this perverse CULT! 💯
I really loved your first video and was looking forward to hear more from you. Watching this now and even though we’re not removed from the congregation yet our experience is very similar so far. Might do a couple videos myself soon.
Hang in there, you guys. Good job standing up for yourselves.
They did you a favor. I am glad you are free from the cult!
Thanks for sharing! I hope this shows how suppressed and controlled people become when they get roped in such cults.. Man, the awkward silence after your questions and the way they try to dodge them! I've seen that myself when I tried to reason with them. It's a pain to watch.. It almost makes you feel embarrassed for them :(
You handled that call so well. Those elders were backed into a corner a few times.
Stay strong you will be just fine
I’m sorry they did that! So much for what Geoffrey Jackson said at the ARC about them NOT being like Cops! I faded in 2018, and an elder recently stopped by to see my family member I live with, and offering the member a Shepherding call (for no apparent reason, and no request for it, but so far, no time set. A CO visited the congregation a few weeks ago. You know they got to see me being in an apparent“black hole” as loose ties they want to tie up, tie off and toss away once and for all. I don’t because of circumstances, so…back to my black hole👋👋😁I’m so glad you and your family are free, though! Do you realize how hard it is to wake up from a cult? You beat the odds! Yay you guys!! Big win!!
@@kdrazalotg-usa6345 that's exactly why I worded the question about people having left the religion after a certain time because of what Geoffrey Jackson said at the Australian Royal Commission
This so-called JW elder danced around the question but did not answer it - is is loving for the Mormon family to shun their child for joining JWs?
@@alexpeace7603 I have asked nearly every JW elder that has confronted me if that would be loving. And they all avoid answering because they don't want to be critical of their own religion.
We don’t shun. We, Mormons, even attend other faith meetings and hold interfaith dialogues.
@@ProdigalSonMatt I meant this more as a hypothetical situation; however, I've read stories of former Mormons being treated poorly by family for leaving the church. Even if it's not the official teaching of the church to shun, it is still the reality for some former members.
The elder didn't want to answer because the question forced him to think about it and he probably realized he couldn't win.excellent analogy by the way
@@questionscommentsconcerns I’m just genuinely fascinated by the JW religion. Like, in my faith we are actively encouraged to seek higher education. In my branch we have a medical doctor, lawyer, ph.d in biochemistry, a counselor, and me a nurse. Then I just seen an elder training video from the JW religion and the father is getting disfellowshipped bet his daughter was accepted into college 😱
They can never give you a straight answer. They beat about the bush and sidestep saying anything that could make them liable
nice to see a video from a fellow exjw named Micah!! I faded 20 years ago. it gets easier and better every day!!
@@rebelINS-MdL lol Micah! There were a few other JWs named Micah where I grew up so I was always "white Micah" lol
Yes one can certainly make decisions for themselves.....but when it comes to a jw leaving, there is consequences, like these men have no direct honest answers to. Any how , how come "they " know about instagram posts. Jws are NOT to look outside the religions information.
@@lynetteedwards there were some elders wives who still followed Taylor on IG. I don't know for sure but I think they were reporting back.
Two things- God institutes the family, yet the JW creates discord among the family.
Jesus is coming to judge the world, yet the JW judge the members, saying that they are going to judiciary meeting. It's crazy.
So sad. So, so so sad. People should feel love and accepted Period❣️
Subbed in support. Thanks for sharing your experience x
@@anniesavedbygrace thanks for your support!
@@questionscommentsconcerns They have to understand that we are no longer AFRAID of their threats! It's so funny because they are the ones backed up into the wall. Im done with JW religion
Awww they were "FORCED" to give you "corrective discipline" tsk tsk poor grown men who can'tthink for themselves. 😂 WOW he literally said if you just SHUT UP about it, you'd be FINE & they'd leave you alone!!! 😡🤮 They make so siiiiiiiiick
Hey Micah and Taylor, sorry if I misspelled your names. I was born and raised JW for 32 years. This year I was going back to meeting after being inactive for a few years and I was feeling defeated because the religion doesn’t make me happy. I was doing it more for my family to love me again.
Anyways, one night I decided to pray like Jesus. I prayed to the father(not Jehovah) and asked him to reveal the real Jesus to me. I kid you not, that same night I was reading 2 Corinthians and when I got to 5:10 and I saw Jesus is the judge and repayer. I clicked on the footnote and it took me to Revelations 22:12. Jesus is speaking in revelation in the JW Bible. I couldn’t believe it, all this time Jesus was right there.
What I’m trying to say is, don’t let this diabolical religion keep you away from Jesus. He is the truth, the way, the light. He said the truth will set you free and that’s exactly what happened to me. I’m no longer a slave to “Jehovah” who is just Satan behind the scenes - 2 Corinthians 4:4. Much love
I meant to say *cult not religion
Thank you so much for sharing this. I can imagine it was hard even though you’ve moved on in your life. It’s only up from here.
It's kind of like being 86-ed by a bar you stopped drinking at years ago.
they are not Our Creator. They are following a man made religion. You need no middle man between you and Our Creator ☮️
I know that is right! Well said!
Your comment sums it up perfectly.
Don’t worry, there is no fucking new system gifted to those who can’t feel empathy for others or don’t have a conscience who worship a god who expects everything but returns breadcrumbs.
As a former Elder I can express that Elders serve for themselves. It's a power trip for the individual elder and they can care less about the individual publishers. Witness kids being molested and the parents of molested kids commiting suicide. And yet the laughter from our shepherding elders? I've seen sidewalk lemonade stands ran more professionally than what I was appointed to help out with. Holy spirit? Remember.... "We're not inspired...or apologize".
That's what happened to me. Some Elder I never heard of from a congregation I never attended dff'd me over the phone.
Me too!
Thanks for posting
The control of a made-up deity is a crazy thing.
Another family saved from Abrahamism
WOW. I never had the chance to appeal. LOL. They told me that it would be announced at the next meeting and to refrain from talking to anyone in the congregation before they announced it. 🤣🤣🤣
They tell you what the goal of the conversation will be 😂
I wouldve spent the whole call asking him “what qualifications do you have to counsel anybody on any topic?” I would further attack his education and his profession by saying “why would I take any life advice from a (insert his day job)” lets say he’s a “window washer” … I would say “the only thing you are qualified to give counsel on is what is the best cleaning supply to wash a window with” 😂
Faith and truth is apparently quite fragile, and is afraid to be tested.
Man, seems like the Elders are a lot nicer now than when I grew up as a JW in the early 80’s. When the Elders kicked you out back then you would think Jehovah was about to rain down brimstones as soon as you left the meeting. Glad you’re out
@@Nighthawk171 lol yes, these definitely are not the super harsh elders of the past.
You tube timer 11:38 Not only is this Elder not very bright, but he doesn't sound educated. He engages in a great deal of non sequitur, he waffles, doesn't answer your questions directly, and deflects. He sounds unsure of himself, and this is what I tell persons. "Why would you hand your life over to another persons to do what they want with it, like this man? I am an old lady, and I would say, "Listen. You pee, poop, and fart," just like any other person. There is nothing special about you or Watchtower.
These elders only have authority over those that authorize them to lord over them. These small men thinking they have legal power? 🤔🤪💩
So, just when do they allow Jesus to do the judging of his sheep? What authority do they have to take these actions? The Governing Body stated they are not inspired. So, how do they get to take the role of God by judging his sheep? Just asking!
7:54 Your ‘Verbal Jujitsu’ is over level 9000 with that question!
-I will have to use that!
@@hikikomori_999 lol every JW who I've asked refuses to answer it unless they actually think shunning is wrong. And they'll tell me that it's not okay but wouldn't dare voice that opinion to other witnesses
@@questionscommentsconcernshis voice is shaking
do these Elders lose points or some benefits when people leave?
I'm curious why they try so hard to invest their time to "re-recruit" someone or convince them to come back?
You can't tell me this guy has a deep loving concern that really worries about his future.
There has to be some hit they are taking they would invest this much conversation.
I'm not convinced this Elder is going to lose sleep over the personal soul of one that has left, there is a hidden agenda that is a bigger worry, and it must be something he loses.
You went easy on him.
I've a friend who's about the same age as me who got disfellowshipped. He had been baptized somewhere around 12 or so. I met him through the local congregation when I used to attend meetings. We both grew up, lost oue belief in God but our family members still remained witnesses. Since I never got baptized, my mom is still allowed to talk to me despite my non belief. But since he "chose" to get baptized as a kid and now doesn't believe, he has very limited contact with his family, mainly so his kids can see his parents. It's a sad situation for him and his family...luckily for me, I never got baptized.
When anyone leaves for conscientious reasons, EVERYONE SHOULD BE DISTURBED! But, no, they dont want anyone to know about it. They want people to think that you committed a serious sin. They want you to sit down, shut up & accept preditors in the congregation..
Don't go back there. They lie when you expose their behavior. They will say that they dont treat people that way which is a lie. Once you are disfellowshipped or disassociated from their congregation they will be treated with disdain.
Can you sue them? I think everyone should try.
The fact that he can't answer basic moral questions and can't even suggest that he has an opinion says a lot
You can leave as long as you don't do your research on what is being said. Also how can my decisions influence your spiritually if you are strong in your conviction. I don't get it
I'm an ex jw. Was born in but left in the 90s. I thankfully never got baptized. Every few years or so they show up at my door even though I told them to stop. I've been here 16 years and they keep hoping I moved so they can recruit someone else lol
But I loved your ending statement. You leave one religion then others try to get you to join theirs. People can't seem to be happy in their own beliefs and want to push it onto others still no matter the religion.
You Tube timer 3:39 For all you know, Kingdom Hall attendance is really down, and they are "clearing the books" because the Kingdom Hall is going to be sold, in which case the WTBTS pockets the money, it really isn't going to any world wide work, just their "coffers."
the trouble with JW;s is they think they are God and they think the congregation is so beneath them it's called pride and they are full of it. they need to know that we are ALL sinners that levels everything. that puts them in the same boat as everyone else. God hates pride they need to correct their thinking and repent JWs before it's too late! thank you for putting up this video. excellent I used to be one of them and I say it with shame. like you i got smart celebrate the freedom! No I am not ashamed anymore just blessed being a Christian
I dissaciated myself years ago
I knew something was wrong with that faith. If they can show me in the bible where Jesus treated anyone the way JW treats their member then we can speak about that organisation as being truth.
Please stay 💪🏾 strong❤
Did the guy speak against Jehovah or speak against the organisation? They hate when you question their doctrine or have a mind of your own.
@@ShawnetteHarris funny enough, telling them I didn't believe in God wasn't that big of an issue. It was speaking against the organization that made them come after us
@@questionscommentsconcerns WOW, that is very telling
Stay strong we love you and if your family doesn't want to talk to you were your family were all out here ex jws
Well first ~ I do nor know exactly ~ WHY ~ a body of Elders would take such a direct decision toward both of YOU . I have learned that when such decisions are made is to protect folks that are focused in a direction that is known to all of US. So the body of Elders are there as a protection for all members of the congregation and that includes YOU both. What this individual said that you be put to death , etc. He should have more clear on why he would say such a statement. He did not mean NO harm. But if you look at the big picture and if you would remain in this path and DO NOT make adjustments to correct what ever YOU are doing that seems as an eye opener. And of course what ever it is it has to given attention to YOU so YOU all would escape eternal death. So the brother was not acting in a wrong way; to be a bother to YOU all but he for got to explain why he said that to YOU both. Thank you for your time. *J here ~ in Houston , Texas. :)
Geoffrey Jackson: "If someone chooses to, they can dissociate."
(When Elders show up unannounced, make harassing phone calls as well as possibly Elders, or even visit work places).
Side stepping the questions. One I heard was "We're not here to debate the scriptures" when he was asked "Please show me the scripture that states one should lose their network (family and friends).
I do agree with the Elder when he mentions things on the Internet. I guess if we heard Geoffrey Jackson, David Namn, Philip Brumley (ect), not lie in court, people would feel differently.
This is proof that once you’re in, you can never get out at least not clean.
This is so bizarre.. It really feels like he just picked up the phone to have a casual chat & also excommunicate you.
You are giving these elders way more authority than they have i.e. zero. You must warn the elders that a public announcement to disfellowship your wife and the subsequent shunning is a violation of human rights in that it incites hatred and discrimination for religious views. Subsequently you will sue the announcer personally and the organization for defamation. You will also go to the local media and government representative to make them aware of this abhorrent practice. The elders will need to escalate this threat through the ranks of the JW hierarchy and they will back off. They are considered a cult through and through and any publicity of their practices that confirm this only solidifies the greater resolve to have them put out of business.
wait…is this like a thing? can we actually sue them for this?
I have heard that if you threaten to sue, they will back off. They don't want any more legal battles to deal with.
good to know.
I worship God, not a Governing Body.
Were you in a Stockbridge Ga congregation? I am in the Atlanta area, born into the religion, left a few years ago after the ARC . Just wondering if you were in Ga.
Yes! As a kid, I went to Stockbridge. Then a couple congregations in McDonough.
@@questionscommentsconcerns It's great to see some locals making videos.
You made sense! Elder programmed
Talk about avoiding answering a question. Let me answer it for you: Shunning is bad. I know from experience.
I'm sorry. This brings back tough feelings for me. But I remember what it was like
Wow I loved your point that it’s not your responsibility if others look you up on IG. Others will also look this up. Nice job 👍
Horrible people.
You nailed it.
I thought nothing could separate us from Christ love?? Now we have the JW Real estate investment corporation judging ..😢... Youre better off without them..
😂 SAVING GAS !😅
I was df'd 36 years ago, laughable behaviour on the part of the elders if not so tragic. When my daughter woke up 12 years ago I advised her strongly to ignore the elders, to not respond, to break free from their 'authority' and so she just faded, was left alone, not df'd. Its realising early on that they have no authority whatsoever over you thats the key. 0:37
And when a person becomes spiritual sick why turn your back on them? It’s just like being sick and you go to the doctor and he turns you away. Make it make sense!
I think a high control religion would want you to believe that if you leave that particular religion, you would be destroyed. They make you believe that their religion is the only way to salvation, when the Bible teaches that only Jesus is "the way, the truth and the light."
ALL AUTHORITY was given to Jesus, which means there's nothing left over to anyone else. Still, we must honor and respect ALL authority for the time being, because it is the will of God.
The decisions the organization make don't impact your relationship with God.( ROMANS 8:38,39 )
The elders do that kind of stuff because, as one of the elders said : "...to send a message..." , in other words, they want to convey the message (to others) that you shouldn't be doing anything that would damage the reputation of the organization. They are protecting the financial interest of the organization as well as the whole integrity of their operation.
All authorities are in their relative places and a congregant shouldn't complain or "attack" the doctrines of the church outside the scope of the administration. All internal affairs should be dealt privately. If you disagree, then you make your own decisions to remain in association with the religious organization or not. You are free to stay (quiet) or go.
Jesus, as the head of ALL the Christians congregations, oversees ALL these issues and through Holy Spirit will resolve them in HIS time. We must trust Jesus with this and don't try to solve these problems in our own terms.
The religion gains power when you surrender your will to them.
God is not in the religion.
God is inside of you, if you accept Him by faith and continuously have a relationship with Him.
There are no temples. We are the temples of the Holy Spirit.
There is no Mosaic law anymore. We obey the law of Christ (love).
Religion is a discipline, just as the financial systems and the political systems are. This is all we have until Jesus comes back. They are imperfect organizations, led by people who are imperfect.
The religions are changing, some faster than others and people are changing as well. God's law remains the same. We must uphold the same moral laws and values that God gave us in order to be found in peace and holy.
Surrender your will and obey God alone through the teachings of the Bible. Accept Holy Spirit to guide you.
Men, because of their imperfection, will disappoint you, fail you and deceive you with intentional lies or apostasy teachings.
The Bible and the Holy Spirit is ALL you need. Association at a church is very good for your mental health and is advisable because we, as humans, are social beings.
Being disfellowshipped ( or the newest term being used by JW : "removed from the congregation") is not the end of the world.
God is not constricted to a single religion.
God is not partial.
ALL barriers were broken when Jesus died.
There's no excuse for you not to know God or serve Him. You worship Him in "truth and spirit", because God is spirit.
The church is just an expansion of the worship you do at home...
Love God with your precious things : Your heart, mind, strength and soul. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
"By this they all know that you are my disciples; if you have love amongst yourselves."
Love is the fulfillment of the law....
Love this
I REALLY BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE SHOULD BE HOLDING THESE ELDERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS AGAINST THE RANK AND FILE IN WAYS THAT THOSE WATCHTOWERS MUSCLE/ELDERS WILL NEVER FORGET!!! READ BETWEEN THE LINES.....
This man (elder) is very nervous and unsure what he is saying!
Just be glad you are out.