How Jehovah's Witnesses Believe in the Reliability and Trustworthiness of the Watchtower

For decades, Jehovah's Witnesses have relied on the Watchtower Society's publications and teachings as their spiritual guide. Many members have personal experiences that reinforce their trust in these materials. According to their beliefs, the Watchtower is not only reliable but also a faithful reflection of God's word, based on the evidence provided within its pages. As long as it is clearly shown that the organization's activities and teachings are under divine guidance, they are supported with unwavering faith.

The Importance of Scriptural Evidence

Witnesses find assurance in the biblical principles and scriptural evidence that are integral to the Watchtower's teachings. They believe that any errors or inaccuracies are rectified quickly and humbly, ensuring that the organization remains a trustworthy source of spiritual guidance. The magazine articles are penned by brothers and sisters dedicated to presenting the facts accurately, and any mistakes are corrected promptly. Those who commit to this faith remain steadfast, while those who doubt often leave the organization.

The Role of the Governing Body

Jehovah's Witnesses give absolute trust to their Governing Body (GB) and believe that it speaks with divine authority. They base their faith on the GB's pronouncements, as deviating from these teachings can lead to exclusion from the community. However, the GB is not infallible. Critics argue that the GB's teachings and directions have evolved over the years, sometimes leading to significant changes and new revelations.

Examples from Biblical Figures

Throughout history, biblical figures also held inaccurate understandings of God's promises and plans, yet they maintained their faith and service. For instance, Abraham and Sarah had an incorrect belief about the timing of their promised child. Despite this, their faith and relationship with God remained strong (Genesis 15:5 18:14). Similarly, the prophet Nathan made an inaccurate recommendation to David, but this did not diminish his service or divine approval (1 Chronicles 17:2-4).

The apostles, despite their limitations, played key roles in spreading the gospel. They, too, had misunderstandings about the Messiah's mission, but they remained faithful and obedient to God's guidance (Luke 19:11, Acts 1:6, Luke 22:24, Matthew 26:56). Even though Christ's kingdom would come, the apostles initially believed it would be a physical, earthly kingdom, which turned out to be incorrect.

Implications for Today's Membership

The examples from scripture emphasize the importance of humility and willingness to learn and adjust one's understanding. Jehovah's Witnesses maintain that a single error does not negate the truth they have gathered. Not only does the Bible highlight times where prophets, apostles, and even Abraham had incorrect beliefs, it also provides examples of how they rectified these errors with humility (James 2:23).

Witnesses see their reliance on the GB as analogous to other religious bodies but argue that unlike others who cling to outdated traditions, they embrace new insights and adjust their understanding. This ongoing process of learning and correction is a hallmark of their faith.

While some criticism arises from the GB's past mistakes, Jehovah's Witnesses argue that these are part of a natural process of growth and adjustment in faith. They believe that Biblical examples illustrate that even prophets and apostles can make mistakes, and that these do not diminish their spiritual service or their relationship with God.

In conclusion, Jehovah's Witnesses find their reliance on the Watchtower and Governing Body as a message of faith and trust based on the principles found in the Bible. It is a continuous journey of learning, adjustment, and unwavering faith guided by divine presence and spirit.