Jehovah's Witnesses: Trust in the Governing Body and Biblical Authority
As a member of the online community of Jehovah's Witnesses, my trust in the Governing Body is rooted in their unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Bible and the example they set in following Christ.
Personal Experiences and Insights
Through personal connections, I have met several members of the Governing Body, and I must say, the individuals are far from the caricatures often portrayed in the media. Far from being arrogant or domineering, these brothers are known for their humility, kindness, and deep love for the Bible. Their approach to discussing complex theological and Biblical issues is often collaborative, drawing from a vast network of scholars, scholars, and other knowledgeable individuals.
They have made adjustments and changes over the years, but always with a clear understanding of their responsibility to the scriptures. When there is disagreement, they approach it with the same level of scrutiny and respect for the scriptures, drawing from the example of the early Christian leaders in Acts 15, where they discussed and debated to reach a consensus that honours God's Word.
Divine Approval and Leadership
The trust in the Governing Body is not solely based on human judgment, but on divine approval. The Bible shows us that Jehovah has appointed Jesus as the head of the congregation, and He has delegated this responsibility to men chosen to lead the faithful.
“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you are complete in him, who is the head of every organization, whether begun by angel or man. In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,” Ephesians 5:23
Trust in the Governing Body is further solidified by the knowledge that Jehovah does not overlook the integrity of those He has appointed. As stated in 1 Timothy 3:10, ‘He must be above reproach, not selfish, not irritable, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive. For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall into the condemnation of the devil.’
Commitment to the Bible and God's Standards
The Governing Body’s commitment to the Bible is not only evident through their teachings but also through their personal lives. They strive to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and uphold God's standards as contained in the Bible. Their approach to decision-making is transparent, involving extensive discussions, investigations, and feedback from the worldwide organization.
“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the Lord’s eyes are on the wicked and their doings to bring them down for their own tricks,” Psalm 34:15
The integrity of the Governing Body is a matter of divine trust, knowing that any deviation from the scriptures would be swiftly corrected by Jehovah. They are not autocratic, like the image often portrayed of the Pope or other religious leaders who decree what is perceived as the truth without the need for evidence or discussion.
Experiences of Oppression and Humility
The Governing Body is under constant attack by those who oppose them, often focusing on the few individuals and neglecting to see the broader mission they serve. Instead of responding in kind, the Governing Body exemplifies humility and service, much like their earthly leader Jesus, who cared for his brothers despite the challenges he faced.
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost,” Luke 19:10
Their approach reflects the teachings of Jesus, as seen in Matthew 25:31-46, where the judgment of the righteous is based on how they treated the least among them. This perspective invites genuine reflection and compels followers to imitate the example set by the Governing Body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, trust in the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses is not a blind adherence but a deeply considered belief rooted in divine approval, the teachings of the Bible, and the exemplary commitment to fulfilling their responsibilities.
Whether through personal interactions, biblical studies, or the broader witness of the organization, the trust in the Governing Body is well-founded. As an individual within the organization, I find it highly amusing and disheartening to see the impotent hatred and vitriol directed at this handful of humble, hardworking, and dedicated men who lead with selflessness and integrity.
Amen.