Posted by Friend [Friend] on April 05, 1999 at 10:02:47 {6.uz.4vynMBao8LWLRQ.OgnjR4Br/g}:
In Reply to: ?s for the reform minded posted by Julie on April 05, 1999 at 06:42:41:
Julie
Would charity still consist of handing out tracts in the midst of disaster?
Yes, but secondary to material humanitarian assistance.
Would the superiority complex many JWs sport still be encouraged?
You and I must differ on that issue. I realize that some people get that reading from WTS literature, however as a JW I have never felt encouraged to sport a superiority complex. I realize that some JWs do this, but I wouldn�t classify that number as �many� or �most� though the term �many� is obviously subjective. In short, I do not favor any encouragement toward sporting a superiority complex.
Would you have the WT "come clean" about mistakes in the past? (i.e. organ transplants, failed prophesies etc.)
Yes. However, IMO, what people are willing to accept as �coming clean� varies widely. For instance, I see many of the teachings of JWs as having resulted from what the community of JWs has wanted. The blood ban is an example. Prior to banning blood transfusions the Society�s position was that of leaving it up to conscience, though the WTS was obviously repulsed by the idea. In the face of overwhelming pressure from many individual JWs the position was changed to one of banning the practice. In that action�like many others�the Society was acting as it should by reflecting attitudes of its supporters. So, if all is admitted then that tendency of bending to the collective will of JWs should likewise be admitted to. Of course, there are other areas where the GB has made unilateral and unsupported decisions where admissions need to be made.
How would you go about getting the 5 million followers to "reform" with you?
Normally people respond positively to honesty. The Society honestly representing its past and current position (i.e. �Given Ones�) will, IMO, draw people together in a common bond. Only the Society can do that via its own publications. No one needs to reform the 5 million; the WTS is what needs the reforming. Frankly, based upon my own experience and exposure, I�m of the opinion that many of the divergences expression on this forum are already believed by most of the 5 million.
Would you still stick with the "slave labor" arrangement for the printing facilities?
Volunteerism is a good thing. It enhances life for those doing it and it helps whatever causes those people support. Just how far individuals want to take their volunteering should be left up to them. As long as they know what they�re signing up for, I say, let them do it.
Would you reconsider the cross over the torture stake in the light of evidence presented by those without personal interest?
It�s a non-issue for me. Frankly, the only reason JWs have ever made an issue over this is because of the cross being idolized. If it were not recognized as an idol it would be low on the list of priorities. It�s not an issue of whether Jesus died upon an upright pole vs. dying upon a cross but rather whether what Jesus died upon is rightly idolized. Arguments that Jesus died upon a pole are simply to show that undo importance of the cross was never of Christian origin in the first place. Even if that is wrong idolizing a cross is not Christian.
Would you cease the judicial hearings and the arrangement where the faithful are encouraged to "turn in" those who aren't with the program completely?
Would you eliminate books like the Secret Elder Handbook?
Not necessarily. In any association, large ones in particular there will always be some type confidential material directed toward those who must have it. Also, there is not much secret about the elders book, either its existence or its contents.
Last but not least, since the excuse that the organization has been run amok by "imperfect men" is so widely used to explain WT errors, could other religions also be given such consideration?
Jesus gave time for mistakes to be resolved, so should we; just how much time is for individuals to decide. Each of us must decide for ourselves whether or which religions deserve the benefit of what you ask. Naturally, if we choose an association it is because we somehow accept it as better. If that organization did not represent itself that way we likely would not be part of it. However, being better and being the �only� are two different ideas. I do not believe that association with the WTS is required for salvation.
Friend