What Are Jehovah’s Witnesses Believe?
Jehovah’s Witnesses, a religious denomination known for their distinctive beliefs and practices, have a unique set of principles that shape their faith and daily lives. This article aims to explore the core beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses, providing an insight into their religious worldview.
1. God and His Name
At the heart of Jehovah’s Witnesses’ beliefs is the concept of God. They believe in one God, who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and eternal. They emphasize the importance of using His proper name, Jehovah, which they believe is the only name by which He should be addressed. This is in contrast to other Christian denominations that use the name “God” or “Yahweh.”
2. Jesus Christ
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ, but they differ from mainstream Christianity in their understanding of His role. They believe that Jesus is the Son of God, but not co-equal with the Father. They teach that Jesus was chosen by God to be His firstborn son and that He was raised from the dead after His crucifixion. However, they do not believe in the Trinity, which is the belief in one God existing in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
3. The Kingdom of God
One of the central themes of Jehovah’s Witnesses is the Kingdom of God. They believe that Jesus Christ was appointed as the King of God’s Kingdom in 1914. This Kingdom is a present reality and is the focus of their ministry. They teach that the Kingdom will bring peace, justice, and an end to suffering on Earth.
4. The End Times
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in the end of the world as we know it. They teach that the present world system will soon come to an end, and that God will establish a new world order under the rule of Jesus Christ. They believe that only a select group of faithful Christians will be resurrected to rule with Christ in this new world, while the rest of humanity will be annihilated.
5. The Kingdom Hall
Jehovah’s Witnesses do not have churches, but instead, they gather in Kingdom Halls. These buildings are used for worship, Bible study, and other religious activities. The Kingdom Hall serves as a gathering place for the local congregation and is a symbol of their unity and commitment to their faith.
6. Non-Involvement in Politics
Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their non-involvement in political matters. They believe that governments are under the control of Satan and that participating in political activities is forbidden. They teach that their primary loyalty is to God and His Kingdom.
In conclusion, Jehovah’s Witnesses hold a set of beliefs that distinguish them from other Christian denominations. Their focus on the Kingdom of God, the end times, and their strict adherence to the Bible guide their religious practices and daily lives. Understanding these beliefs can provide insight into the unique perspective of this religious group.