Posted by Friend [Friend] on November 17, 1999 at 07:11:29 {xx2d.1sWpQePXjHnUl.IOgnjR4Br/g}:
In Reply to: **The future of the WTS posted by AF on November 17, 1999 at 06:11:22:
AF
Who has these expectations and who is making these forecasts?
The Society makes projections for various reasons. One factor influencing development (growth or decline) is effects from teachings. The Society realizes adverse consequences to development if teachings get out of hand. Just look at what happened back in the late 70’s. Admittedly the Society went too far on a wrong course and stymied growth was symptomatic of that. For that and other reasons the Society keeps close watch on statistics. Feedback lets the Society know what areas are of concern.
The Society is not of the view that growth will continue indefinitely but they are concerned that its teachings are not needlessly causing some to stumble. The debate is about what is needed versus needless. Beliefs concede that eventually the number of adherents will level off or decline.
Friend