Why Does the Jehovah's Witness Organization Appear Strict and Controlling?
There is a perception circulating among those who observe the Jehovah's Witnesses from outside the faith that the organization seems strict and restraining. They often warp this description when witnessing to people that Jehovah’s Witnesses discontinued the act of worship to satisfy their demands.
However, this is a misinterpretation that arises because we, the Jehovah's Witnesses, self-identify as an organized family of Christians worldwide, all bound together by a shared devotion to loving one another as Jesus instructed and prayed. This understanding is rooted in Christian teachings found in the New Testament.
The Biblical Basis for Our Practices
According to the Gospel of John, Jesus laid down the fundamental commandment for us: 'I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you. By this all will know that you are my disciples—if you have love among yourselves' (John 13:34-35).
John further expounds on this concept in his first epistle, adding, 'By this we have come to know love because that one surrendered his life for us and we are under obligation to surrender our lives for our brothers' (1 John 3:16). This verse underscores the profound duty of mutual love among Christians, which is a central tenet of our faith.
Imitating Jesus' Example
To effectively embody Christ's commandment, we strive to imitate Jesus as Peter guides us in 1 Peter 2:21, saying, 'In fact, to this course you were called because even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow. He made you close followers of his steps.'
This imitation includes strict adherence to Jesus' example, especially during the early days of the Christian congregation when it was under the apostles' guidance. Our demeanor may seem imposing or restrictive to outsiders, but it is merely a reflection of our commitment to Jesus' teachings.
The Nature of Religious Worship
The stricter and more stringent approach taken by the Jehovah's Witnesses is not due to a desire to control or dictate personal conduct, but rather our belief in the Bible's directive that true worship must be active, fervent, and full of self-sacrifice. Other religions often employ passive methods of worship, seeking to minimize personal involvement, which is unacceptable to both Jesus and Jehovah God.
As the apostle John warns in Revelation 3:14-16: 'I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or else hot. So because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to spew you out of my mouth.' This passage underscores the necessity of passionate, wholehearted devotion to one's faith.
Conclusion
In essence, any perception of strict control or overbearing behavior by the Jehovah's Witnesses is a result of our unwavering dedication to living out Jesus' commands and expressing our faith in a manner that aligns with His teachings. As an organized and unified group of believers, we seek to live by His example, striving for active and sincere worship that reflects the heart of God.