Posted by C [C] on November 18, 1999 at 20:12:44 {KEdmzBXaT6Je9M9DLe5A30coBlH4rs}:
Double standards?
I’ve been sent personal emails and read those here who seem to have a complaint about how the Witness’s “review” information and then seemingly “regurgitate” what has been set before them. Is this really true? Cannot Witnesses think for themselves? Or must they just repeat, verbatim, what they’ve read?
While it is true, that during the “meetings” and/or “study’s” we find them making relatively short comments or even repeating what’s written – what is/has really gone on before hand? What I’ve seen is many/most have went through the material and already study’d it on personal time. And those who find certain “articles” of particular interest, they’ll thoroughly go through it. Researching. Asking themselves questions. And if having difficulty, going to someone who has more knowledge.
Actually the research before the meetings should always occur with every body and every book or “Watchtower” that’s gone over. But, nobody has that kind of time. Not even me. Surley not those here who spend their time reading these things (which I still can’t understand why you bother “if” you really believe the Witnesses are wrong) and then either making poor comments on how “silly” these people are or trying to “prove” how wrong they must be in organizing the meetings this way.
The meetings seem to be just a “formal” excuse to socialize with each other and – hopefully – add something positive verbally to others. I can see nothing wrong with that. Since none of us are at the same stage of knowledge/development, I believe the way the meetings are arranged can add some benefit to everyone – leaving no one feeling inadequate. If “you” have a problem with that, then why don’t the ones who say they listen at these meetings make comments? Why wait till later to make snide comments to others? Why don’t you find something more constructive to do?
If you have nothing positive to say, what’s really the point? Keep harping, that does sooooo much more good – doesn’t it?
What about other “religions”? Surley those here belonging to each of the denominations do much better? Don’t they? In the Presbyterian faith I once belong to, each Sunday we go to “church” and only LISTEN to the preacher. Of course the ‘plate’ was past before hand. No “participation” at all from the congregation. Of course we did have “Sunday school.” On no, while “listening” to our teacher, we read the answers from our own little “books”. But of course we were all separated in our little groups. No interaction between the ages. I particularly think that is also a poor method. It also allows for “clicks” to easily form.
What about the Baptists? (My wife was a Baptist – so I went with her for some time – I also attended a Baptist church back home). They’re much the same. Listen to the preacher, Sunday schools, leave the “baby” in the nursery – wouldn’t want to disturb the others. I’m some were different. Some probably learned and progressed. Some didn’t.
Maybe those here prefer the Catholics? Learn those “catechisms.” Repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat. Pray “to” Mary. Or if you like, have Mary pray for you. She’s really alive right? Even though the Bible says we all return the dust – from where we made. Of course it doesn’t really mean that does it?
We should all try to be positive – I think. If you don’t like, can’t stand, the Witnesses – why not stay away. Say “no thank you” when they come to your door, meet you on the street, etc.
Look at your own ’house’ first.