[QUOTE=echo6160]
This … I am not sure if I know how to respond. Let’s give it a shot.
Look at this: “Just because something is written does not make it true”. I know that. Your math book in school, that was written. It was true. You learned this through study, and you came to an understanding. So some things that are written are true. The Bible even says in Proverbs that it is foolish to put faith in every word, and the wise ones consider their steps. Think of that, the Bible itself says you shouldn’t put blind faith in it, that you should study it to make sure!
The Bible is written, just like that math book. It is true. **I ** know this because I have come to an understanding over time. Reading it thru does little for anyone…it’s 66 separate books. Don’t forget that. 2Tim 3:15 says that all scripture is inspired of God, but it still took a few thousand years to write, so naturally different literary styles will jump in there.
Obviously, since it took assistance from teachers for you to come to an understanding of mathematics, and you had more than one teacher, just reading a math book with 1 study guide wouldn’t cut it. Just like reading the Bible with ONE study guide won’t cut it. You’ll never get it all…it’ll never make sense.
The important thing to remember here is that each individual has the ability to make up his own mind. Really, each individual has the **obligation ** to do so. So if you were to study with one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and if after a year or so you still completely disagreed with them, you would have the right to make up your mind and say “No thanks, I don’t buy it”. Everyone fears that studying with a Witness would somehow corrupt their brain…it won’t, I promise. Until you make up your own mind, you’ll still have the same beliefs, the same old habits. Try studying with your Priest, or Pastor. They won’t give you the personal help that you’ll get from a Witness. I promise.
Think of it this way, maybe then you’ll get where I’m coming from. If you were in a land where a large portion of the money flowing around was counterfeit, what would benefit you most? Studying all the different types of counterfeit money so that you knew what it all looked like? Or studying the true money very hard so that you knew what to compare the fakes to?
The Bible says that there is one true God, and that his way is perfect, and that we as humans have an obligation to keep his commandments. So this is what I will study, and hold all others up to it. I’ve not seen any reason to change that SOP.
[/QUOTE]
I’m not too familiar with with the JW beliefs other than passing mention by others. Can you suggest any reading that might educate me. You seem very sincere and I appreciate the tone of your posts. I am a former Christian whose beliefs have changed pretty significantly over years of independent study.
There’s little doubt in my mind that our emotions play a large part in what makes up our individual belief system. The world is full of examples of people who have spent years studying the Bible but ultimately come to very different conclusions.
I’m particularly interested in your statement that JW beliefs are supported in the KJV. Most denominations believe their varied belief systems are supported by the Bible by selectively interpreting the verses to fit preconceived ideas. What’s your take on that phenomenon? I’ve studied the NT quite a bit myself and come away with something much different than traditional Christianity. I’ve also studied where the Bible came from which was very helpful in determining what them Bible is and what it isn’t.
Like I said, perceptions are subjective.
)Also, next time a Witness comes to the door, lend an ear. Ask them to come back, or even to stay a while if you’ve got the time. We’re known for going door to door to bring this information to people who really want it. Somewhere on that website is an address you can write to to request information, maybe even an email address…I’m not sure, I’ve never had to do it myself 
.
