Even though the title of his talk on the Saturday afternoon session of the 2021 “Powerful by Faith” Regional Convention: “Put Up a Hard Fight for the Faith” is taken from Jude’s words, as you listen, it becomes apparent that the faith that David Splane is encouraging his audience to fight for is not the same as what Jude was writing about.
He is encouraging putting up a hard fight not necessarily for faith in Christ but for faith in the organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses as being the only true Christian religion. The apostates he is concerned about are not necessarily those that reject Christ but those that no longer agree with the teachings and policies of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society and its governing body and speak out against their harmful practices. The negative reports in the media are not about Jesus, his ministry, resurrection, his enthronement or his role in God’s purpose but about Jehovah’s Witnesses.
He warns that they should be avoided like poison.
How does a person recognize that something is poison? Someone would have to label it as such. But doesn’t that call for a level of trust to be placed in the person or persons that made the label?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are two United States federal agencies charged with protecting the public’s health. Both disseminate health information through nationwide campaigns and are expected to serve as reliable and accurate sources of information. The effectiveness of these agencies (as measured by individuals’ responsiveness and compliance with governmental messages and regulations) likely depends on the extent to which these agencies are perceived as trustworthy, competent, and credible. So if the FDA were to develop a track record of giving false and misleading information their trustworthiness would suffer would it not?
The determination of who is and who is not to be regarded as an apostate is not left to each individual member of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Rather it is the Watchtower society that makes that determination for them. They reserve the right to label the bottle as poison as it were. But what is the track record of the Watchtower society? Over their past 100 years of existence have they proven themselves to be trustworthy, competent and credible?
At one point the organization condemned vaccinations, organ transplants and blood fractions. How many people suffered or perhaps lost their lives due to following these directives? If they consider teachings that are out of harmony with the Bible as poison have not they themselves been guilty of serving poison? Can anyone legitimately say that their medical or scriptural advice can be trusted? Why then should we trust their advice to stay away from former members of the religion because they have discovered and want to warn others by exposing, among other things, this terrible track record?
If our desire is to continue in the things that we have learned from the Christ and not the doctrines and opinions of men in an earthly organization it is important to answer that question. But David Splane avoids it because he is counting on his audience to assume that the organization is teaching the truth about Christ. That way, separating a person from the lock step uniformity of the organization, causing them to stumble in their loyalty to it by pointing out its flaws can be viewed as a terrible thing. When Paul wrote those words, he didn’t have in mind the teachings of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. But if the aim of the organization is to help persons to develop a relationship with God through Christ why should pointing out where it can improve in that be discouraged? Can the leadership of the organization honestly say that no one has ever been stumbled by its actions? Are there policies in place presently that have the potential for stumbling others? If so, how could silencing those bringing these things to light, labeling them as liars possibly be in line with Christianity? (Matt. 12:20; Acts 6:1)
Well, in order to warn against the danger of apostates someone must have listened to what they have said. Or is David Splane just speaking about the results that he has heard about that come to witnesses that listen to any challenge of the religion without knowing what that challenge is? Is he including himself when he says: “We are not so strong, so spiritual, so intelligent that we can’t be affected by the poison of apostate ideas.” Does he too protect himself? If so, then how can he possible know what he is talking about? How can his warning be trusted?
Rather than encourage witnesses to run to a sterile environment in order to avoid encountering any ideas that could be poisonous to their faith, would it not be better to provide an antidote? But sadly there is nothing in his entire talk that strengthens the spiritual immune system of his listeners. All he can do is label anyone that disagrees with him as someone with a contagious incurable disease, like the Jews regarded anyone with leprosy and urge his listeners to avoid them.
But consider again the analogy of the bottle of poison. Actually, it is a fact that some beneficial medicines would be poisonous if used incorrectly, combined with certain foods or substances or if too high a dosage is taken. If we merely relied on someone else to interpret for us what poisonous means instead of reading and analyzing the label for ourselves we could be missing out on a valuable cure for our illness if they get it wrong. Really how wise and mature would it be to rely on someone to just tell us what to do rather than to develop and use our own God given thinking ability? (Pr. 2:11-13; Heb. 5:14)
But did you notice that David Splane does not give any specific examples of what apostates have said? Why? Who’s being sneaky?
5 replies on “Recognize Poison and Avoid It!”
If God is love, why have so many evil acts been committed by religions that claim to represent him? Put simply, these religions are false; they misrepresent God. How have they misrepresented him? How does he feel about that? And what will he do about it?
How does false religion misrepresent God by its teachings?
False religion has “exchanged the truth of God for the lie.” (Romans 1:25) For example, most religions have not taught their followers God’s name. However, the Bible says that God’s name must be used. (Romans 10:13, 14) Some religious leaders say that when something terrible happens, it is God’s will. But that is a lie. God is never the source of evil. (Read James 1:13.) Sadly, religious lies have pushed people away from God.
How does God feel about false religion?
If the things done by false religion make you angry, how do you think Jehovah feels? He loves people, but he is angry with religious leaders who misrepresent him and mistreat their followers. He promises that false religion will be destroyed and “will never be found again.” (Revelation 18:21) Soon, God will put an end to all false religion.—Revelation 18:8.
This link shows “How False Religion Misrepresents God”
https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/enjoy-life-forever/section-2/lesson-13/
Is there one true religion? If so, how much of what they teach is necessary for it to qualify as such? Should all or just some of their teachings be true? Would a religion that constantly has to adjust its teachings qualify? https://www.jw.org/en/jehovahs-witnesses/faq/jw-doctrine-changes/
This is what Apostasy is:
Proverbs 11: 9 says: By his mouth the apostate brings his neighbor to ruin,
But by knowledge the righteous are rescued.
Apostasy is abandoning or deserting the worship and service of God whose name is Jehovah, actually a rebellion
against Jehovah God. Some apostates profess to know and serve God but reject teachings or requirements set out
In his Word. Others claim to believe the Bible but reject Jehovah’s organisation.
Satan and those under his influence often mix lies with truths in an attempt to undermine our faith. (2Co 11:3) For example, the Assyrians used half-truths and outright lies to discourage Jehovah’s people. (2Ch 32:10-15) Apostates use similar tactics today. How should we react to apostate teachings? Treat them as the poison they are! Never read them, reply to them, or repeat them. Be quick to detect information that is designed to raise doubts about Jehovah and his organization—and reject it!—Jude 3, 4.
God who’s name is Jehovah:
“God Is Love” “He that does not love has not come to know God, because God is love.”—1 JOHN 4:8.
False religion has “exchanged the truth of God for the lie.” (Romans 1:25) For example, most religions have not taught their followers God’s name. However, the Bible says that God’s name must be used. (Romans 10:13, 14) Some religious leaders say that when something terrible happens, it is God’s will. But that is a lie. God is never the source of evil. (Read James 1:13.) Sadly, religious lies have pushed people away from God.
How does God feel about false religion?
If the things done by false religion make you angry, how do you think Jehovah feels? He loves people, but he is angry with religious leaders who misrepresent him and mistreat their followers. He promises that false religion will be destroyed and “will never be found again.” (Revelation 18:21) Soon, God will put an end to all false religion.—Revelation 18:8.
Psalms 37: 11 The meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.
Psalms 37: 29 The righteous will possess the earth, And they will live forever on it.
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that “all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial.” (2 Timothy 3:16) We use the Bible as a practical guide to learn about the Creator and to live meaningful lives.
The Bible says: “May people know that you, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth.” (Psalm 83:18) Therefore, we worship only Jehovah God, and as his Witnesses, we endeavor to make known his personal name.—Isaiah 43:10-12.
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Bible principles can benefit people even today. (Isaiah 48:17, 18) Therefore, we adhere closely to those principles. For example, because the Bible warns us to avoid practices that pollute our minds and bodies, we do not smoke or misuse drugs. (2 Corinthians 7:1) We also avoid practices specifically condemned in the Bible, such as drunkenness, sexual immorality, and stealing.—1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
Jehovah Gods Enemy
The Devil is God’s enemy, not his servant. Satan the Devil opposes and falsely accuses people who serve God.—1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 12:10.
Yes, the Devil is real. He is “the ruler of the world,” a spirit creature who became wicked and rebelled against God. (John 14:30; Ephesians 6:11, 12) The Bible reveals the Devil’s personality through these names and descriptions:
Satan, which means “Resister.”—Job 1:6.
Devil, which means “Slanderer.”—Revelation 12:9.
Serpent, which is used in the Bible to mean “Deceiver.”—2 Corinthians 11:3.
Tempter.—Matthew 4:3.
Liar.—John 8:44.
If God is love, why have so many evil acts been committed by religions that claim to represent him? Put simply, these religions are false; they misrepresent God. How have they misrepresented him? How does he feel about that? And what will he do about it?
How does false religion misrepresent God by its teachings?
Note: God whose name is Jehovah
False religion has “exchanged the truth of God for the lie.” (Romans 1:25) For example, most religions have not taught their followers God’s name. However, the Bible says that God’s name must be used. (Romans 10:13, 14) Some religious leaders say that when something terrible happens, it is God’s will. But that is a lie. God is never the source of evil. (Read James 1:13.) Sadly, religious lies have pushed people away from God.
How does God feel about false religion?
If the things done by false religion make you angry, how do you think Jehovah feels? He loves people, but he is angry with religious leaders who misrepresent him and mistreat their followers. He promises that false religion will be destroyed and “will never be found again.” (Revelation 18:21) Soon, God will put an end to all false religion.—Revelation 18:8.
We as Jehovah’s Witnesses follow the direction from the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The Governing Body is a small group of mature Christians who provide direction for Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide.
The Governing Body follows the pattern set by “the apostles and elders in Jerusalem” in the first century, who made important decisions on behalf of the entire Christian congregation. (Acts 15:2) Like those faithful men, the members of the Governing Body are not the leaders of our organization. They look to the Bible for guidance, acknowledging that Jehovah God has appointed Jesus Christ as the Head of the congregation.—1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 5:23.
Sublime Moon
Thank you for your response. But I’m wondering if your ability to explain your beliefs goes beyond simply cutting and pasting material from Watchtower publications?
This is what Apostasy is:
Proverbs 11: 9 says: By his mouth the apostate brings his neighbor to ruin,
But by knowledge the righteous are rescued.
Apostasy is abandoning or deserting the worship and service of God whose name is Jehovah, actually a rebellion
against Jehovah God. Some apostates profess to know and serve God but reject teachings or requirements set out
In his Word. Others claim to believe the Bible but reject Jehovah’s organisation. (The Watchtower October 1, 1993 pg. 19 par. 15 “Search Through Me, O God”)
Satan and those under his influence often mix lies with truths in an attempt to undermine our faith. (2Co 11:3) For example, the Assyrians used half-truths and outright lies to discourage Jehovah’s people. (2Ch 32:10-15) Apostates use similar tactics today. How should we react to apostate teachings? Treat them as the poison they are! Never read them, reply to them, or repeat them. Be quick to detect information that is designed to raise doubts about Jehovah and his organization—and reject it!—Jude 3, 4. (May 2023 Meeting Workbook pg. 16 “Protect Yourself From Apostasy”)
God who’s name is Jehovah:
“God Is Love” “He that does not love has not come to know God, because God is love.”—1 JOHN 4:8.
False religion has “exchanged the truth of God for the lie.” (Romans 1:25) For example, most religions have not taught their followers God’s name. However, the Bible says that God’s name must be used. (Romans 10:13, 14) Some religious leaders say that when something terrible happens, it is God’s will. But that is a lie. God is never the source of evil. (Read James 1:13.) Sadly, religious lies have pushed people away from God. (Enjoy Life Forever lesson 13 point 1)
How does God feel about false religion?
If the things done by false religion make you angry, how do you think Jehovah feels? He loves people, but he is angry with religious leaders who misrepresent him and mistreat their followers. He promises that false religion will be destroyed and “will never be found again.” (Revelation 18:21) Soon, God will put an end to all false religion.—Revelation 18:8. (Enjoy Life Forever lesson 13 point 3)
Psalms 37: 11 The meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.
Psalms 37: 29 The righteous will possess the earth, And they will live forever on it.
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that “all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial.” (2 Timothy 3:16) We use the Bible as a practical guide to learn about the Creator and to live meaningful lives.
The Bible says: “May people know that you, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth.” (Psalm 83:18) Therefore, we worship only Jehovah God, and as his Witnesses, we endeavor to make known his personal name.—Isaiah 43:10-12.
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Bible principles can benefit people even today. (Isaiah 48:17, 18) Therefore, we adhere closely to those principles. For example, because the Bible warns us to avoid practices that pollute our minds and bodies, we do not smoke or misuse drugs. (2 Corinthians 7:1) We also avoid practices specifically condemned in the Bible, such as drunkenness, sexual immorality, and stealing.—1 Corinthians 6:9-11. (The Watchtower September 1, 2015 pg. 5 “What Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Believe?”)
Jehovah Gods Enemy
The Devil is God’s enemy, not his servant. Satan the Devil opposes and falsely accuses people who serve God.—1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 12:10.
Yes, the Devil is real. He is “the ruler of the world,” a spirit creature who became wicked and rebelled against God. (John 14:30; Ephesians 6:11, 12) The Bible reveals the Devil’s personality through these names and descriptions:
Satan, which means “Resister.”—Job 1:6.
Devil, which means “Slanderer.”—Revelation 12:9.
Serpent, which is used in the Bible to mean “Deceiver.”—2 Corinthians 11:3.
Tempter.—Matthew 4:3.
Liar.—John 8:44. (Bible Questions Answered “Is the Devil Real?”)
If God is love, why have so many evil acts been committed by religions that claim to represent him? Put simply, these religions are false; they misrepresent God. How have they misrepresented him? How does he feel about that? And what will he do about it?
How does false religion misrepresent God by its teachings?
Note: God whose name is Jehovah
False religion has “exchanged the truth of God for the lie.” (Romans 1:25) For example, most religions have not taught their followers God’s name. However, the Bible says that God’s name must be used. (Romans 10:13, 14) Some religious leaders say that when something terrible happens, it is God’s will. But that is a lie. God is never the source of evil. (Read James 1:13.) Sadly, religious lies have pushed people away from God. (Enjoy Life Forever lesson 13 point 1)
How does God feel about false religion?
If the things done by false religion make you angry, how do you think Jehovah feels? He loves people, but he is angry with religious leaders who misrepresent him and mistreat their followers. He promises that false religion will be destroyed and “will never be found again.” (Revelation 18:21) Soon, God will put an end to all false religion.—Revelation 18:8. (Enjoy Life Forever lesson 13 point 3)
We as Jehovah’s Witnesses follow the direction from the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The Governing Body is a small group of mature Christians who provide direction for Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide.
The Governing Body follows the pattern set by “the apostles and elders in Jerusalem” in the first century, who made important decisions on behalf of the entire Christian congregation. (Acts 15:2) Like those faithful men, the members of the Governing Body are not the leaders of our organization. They look to the Bible for guidance, acknowledging that Jehovah God has appointed Jesus Christ as the Head of the congregation.—1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 5:23. (Frequently Asked Questions About Jehovah’s Witnesses “What is the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses?”)
Having been a member of the organization for over 40 years, I am well acquainted with their claim of being the only true Christian organization on earth, God’s sole channel for dispensing spiritual food. After carefully examining the scriptures I find no biblical statements in support of the claim, nor has there been any proof offered that the governing body who admit to not being inspired and infallible, are guided by God. What is the difference between being guided by God and being inspired anyway? So merely parroting what they themselves claim is not going to cut it.
Additionally, it seems that you believe that in order to accomplish his will,God must use only one Christian organization and reject all others. But there is no prophecy of scripture that says that this would be the case once Christ established the Christian congregation.. In his illustration of the wheat and weeds, Jesus said that the Devil would infiltrate his kingdom with false Christians and the separation would take place only when he arrived with his angels at the conclusion of the system of things. This does not match with any idea of one pure denomination of Christians that has gathered all of the wheat before he arrives. (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-41) True, Christianity is corrupt, but it is just as Jesus said it would be. There is no one Christian group that has all the truth, not even Jehovah’s Witnesses.
I am pleased that you read the articles on my website and take the time to respond to them, even though this is something strongly discouraged by the governing body for you to do.
I invite you to view the series of videos entitled “Who Are the True Worshipers?” https://youtu.be/j3C3QQX-xbg
If after watching it you care to make comments, I would love to hear from you.
Christian love,
Jerome