What do Jehovah’s Witnesses believe?
Jehovah’s Witnesses, also known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, are a Christian denomination with a distinct set of beliefs that set them apart from mainstream Christianity. This religious group has approximately 8 million members worldwide and follows a strict set of teachings that they believe are derived directly from the Bible. In this article, we will explore the core beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses and how they shape their lives and religious practices.
Origin and Basic Beliefs
Jehovah’s Witnesses originated in the United States in the late 19th century and were founded by Charles Taze Russell. They believe that God’s name is Jehovah, a name derived from the Hebrew Bible, and that He is the only true God. They reject the use of titles such as “Father” or “Son” when referring to God, as they believe these titles are not found in the original texts of the Bible.
End Times and Armageddon
A significant part of Jehovah’s Witnesses’ beliefs revolves around the end times and the concept of Armageddon. They believe that the world is currently in the “last days” and that Jesus Christ will soon return to establish His kingdom on Earth. This kingdom will bring about a utopian world, free from suffering and death, where Jehovah’s Witnesses will live forever. They also believe that the dead will be resurrected to judgment, with the wicked being destroyed and the righteous living on a new Earth.
Non-Involvement in Politics and War
Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their strict stance on non-involvement in politics and war. They believe that all forms of government are under the control of Satan and that Christians should not participate in political activities or military service. This belief leads to their refusal to vote, serve in the military, or salute the flag, which has sometimes caused legal challenges and social tension.
Non-Use of Graven Images
Another core belief of Jehovah’s Witnesses is their aversion to the use of graven images, which they interpret as idolatry. As a result, they do not celebrate holidays such as Christmas or Easter, nor do they use religious symbols such as crosses. They believe that these practices are man-made traditions that have no biblical basis.
Only One True Church
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that their organization is the only true church on Earth, founded by Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry. They reject the idea of salvation through faith in Jesus alone and instead emphasize the importance of following the teachings of the Bible, including the laws of Moses and the teachings of Jesus.
Community and Mutual Support
Jehovah’s Witnesses place a strong emphasis on community and mutual support among their members. They attend weekly meetings, called “Kingdom Halls,” where they study the Bible, sing hymns, and discuss religious topics. They also engage in door-to-door evangelism, sharing their beliefs with others and distributing religious literature.
In conclusion, Jehovah’s Witnesses hold a unique set of beliefs that have shaped their religious practices and community. Their focus on the end times, non-involvement in politics and war, and strict adherence to biblical teachings have led to a distinctive religious identity that sets them apart from other Christian denominations. Understanding their beliefs can provide insight into the lives and values of Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world.
