Posted by Bibleman [Bibleman] on November 13, 1999 at 11:31:17 {OA5YBxH8IAf9UnUPxURUslyACFuF8c}:
In Reply to: ******TO HAROLD****** posted by FRED HALL on November 13, 1999 at 07:54:04:
Hi Fred,
I want to come back. I wish I could come back, Fred.
But it just seems so hard for me to do that right now. I'm afraid I'd get into arguments with the brothers over so many false teachings currently being maintained by the GB. And it hurts not to be able to talk about them.
And I don't think they have a right to tell me who I can talk to on the internet.
So please understand that some of us who have done some independent research and found out a few FACTS find it very hard to be hypocritical.
Of course, if someone really isn't paying attention to what they believe and are not doing research then maybe its easier just to focus on what the Watchtower is saying. But even then, if you check the Bible you'll see there are discrepancies.
But what if I did come back Fred? What if I came to your hall and said: "Hi Fred. I wonder if you can help me. You see, Jeremiah 52:30 says the last deportation from Jerusalem was in the 23rd year of Nebuchadnezzar. And even though the Society quotes from Josephus about the 70-year "desert" period which proves the Jews were in exile for at least 70 years, even Josephus dates those 70 years beginning with the deportation of those who ran down to Egypt in the 23rd year. Thus, it seems to me, per the Bible and per available history, that this 70-year desolation period began in the 23rd year and not the 19th year as the Witnesses are teaching. Now I know I'm not supposed to contradict the Society. And I'm not insisting that you agree with me. But what is your advice for me when I go from door to door and someone asks me about this? Do I lie, or do I say, "No comment, that question is off limits. It will be answered in the Watchtower in Jehovah's due time."
Is that what being a witness is now? Ignoring the truth until the GB decides to make it a priority instead of buliding one-day kingdom halls?
How are you dealing with the false teachings, Fred? You must have some opinion and I know you're not totally a J-dub since you're here at Apostate Central when you've been critically warned not to come to sites like this.
Or maybe you think this is a virtual Kingdom Hall?
Anyway....thanks for the invite back.
I would try to sneak back in if it were convenient. But you know I'd join the Reform Movement. That seems fun to me now. I'd be a "visitor" at Bethel three times a year checking things out for sure.
Bye...
Bibleman