Posted by Friend [Friend] on November 17, 1999 at 08:02:48 {xx2d.1sWpQePXjHnUl.IOgnjR4Br/g}:
In Reply to: ****The future of the WTS posted by AF on November 17, 1999 at 07:30:34:
AF
It's particularly interesting that WTS leaders will change teachings based on their effectiveness in enhancing growth. One would think that the teaching of truth is not dependent on projections of growth. Such a policy says clearly that these leaders don't really believe what they teach. That's pretty cynical, and it certainly explains a lot.
It’s not so much that teaching is dependant upon growth/decline but rather that teaching is reconsidered based upon several factors, one of them being growth/decline. Also the type of growth is considered in the equation. Particularly when losses or gains are evident amongst people giving every indication of humility and genuineness does the Society take note.
Considering that they are not infallible the governing body is interested in honest views from such humble and genuine people. As long as inevitable division of fellow believers from their aspirations is not evident they are willing to listen attentively to what is said, even if it disagrees with current teachings. They may or may not change anything based upon an individual’s view but they will listen to what is said. Still, there is a consideration of community conscience at work regarding some beliefs. Historically intolerance of blood transfusion is one such belief. Many are beginning to move toward that position being needless rather then needed, which, as I said before, is the debate.
Friend