PROVE ALL THINGS

 

How is it that Jehovah's Witnesses sincerely believe obvious heresies even though they appear to study more than most? The problem lies with what they respect as the final authority or the standard of truth. In their indoctrination a subtle switch was made from reliance on the word of God to reliance on the words of men. They interpret Bible passages in relation to publications instead of interpreting Bible passages in relation to context and the whole Bible, dismiss all other interpretations of Scripture as false, and refuse to consider any teachings or beliefs other than their own (Watchtower teachings). Refusing to discuss or consider other points of view does not confirm one's view, but this does help one remain convinced of falsehoods. (Truth, facts, and reality can withstand questions, criticism, and critical analysis.)

The problem is not limited to Jehovah's Witnesses and other cults. Evangelicals often remain sincerely convinced that various false or misguided teachings and preferences are Bible truths in the same way.

Propaganda is merely information in favour of a cause and can be good or evil, informative or misleading, and honest or dishonest; the danger is that propaganda serves the function of self-delusion in the absence of critical thinking.

Heresies and debatable opinions can, and often do, look and sound like Bible doctrine until you ask pointed questions, look at Bible proof texts in relation to context and the whole Bible, and pay attention to words and grammar.

Along with regular personal Bible study, making a habit of applying these questions to specific beliefs, teachings, and issues (including those that you consider settled) will help you discern between truth and falsehood or opinion:

·        Why do you believe this?

·        Have you prayerfully studied to learn what the Bible says about this, and what would be your response if an unbeliever asked why you believe this or why this is true or false or right or wrong? (Proverbs 2:6; 3:5-7; Acts 17:10-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)

·        Are you interpreting proof texts in relation to context and the whole Bible, and paying attention to the meaning of words and grammar? Are you interpreting difficult Bible passages in relation to clear passages? (2 Timothy 2:15)

·        How important is this in relation to other matters. and what Bible truths and principles or standards apply? (Matthew 23:24; Romans 14; 1 Timothy 1:5-7)

·        Was this true in the distant past and will this still be true in the distant future? (Psalm 33:11; 119:89; Proverbs 19:21; Ecclesiastes 1:9-10; James 1:17)

·        What is the origin of this teaching or belief? Is this what the Bible says or what someone thinks the Bible ought to say? Can you verify this with Scripture or is it necessary to use the arguments of the world? (Psalm 33:10; Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 1:20; 2:5; Colossians 1:9; 2:8)