What is a Jehovah’s Witness Believe In?
Jehovah’s Witnesses, also known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, are a Christian denomination that has its own unique set of beliefs and practices. These beliefs are derived from their interpretation of the Bible and their understanding of God’s purpose for humanity. In this article, we will explore the core principles that define what a Jehovah’s Witness believes in.
Core Beliefs
1. The Name of God: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that the proper name of God is “Jehovah,” which is derived from the tetragrammaton (YHWH) found in the Hebrew Bible. They consider this to be the most accurate and respectful way to refer to God.
2. The Bible as the Supreme Authority: They hold the Bible as the ultimate source of spiritual guidance and believe that it is the inspired word of God. They emphasize the importance of studying the Bible and applying its teachings to their daily lives.
3. The Kingdom of God: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that God’s kingdom was established in heaven in 1914 and that it will soon take over the affairs of the earth. They believe that Jesus Christ is the king of this kingdom and that he will restore paradise on earth.
4. The Kingdom’s Purpose: The primary purpose of the kingdom is to bring about the salvation of God’s chosen people, the anointed class of 144,000, and to extend God’s invitation to the rest of humanity to receive eternal life on a renewed earth.
5. The End of the World: They believe that the end of the world as we know it is imminent and that only those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior will be saved. They teach that the wicked will be destroyed, and the righteous will live forever on a paradise earth.
6. No Trinity: Jehovah’s Witnesses reject the concept of the Trinity, which is the belief in one God consisting of three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They believe that Jesus Christ is God’s son but not equal to God the Father.
7. No Religious Rituals: They do not participate in religious rituals such as baptism, communion, or holidays, as they believe that these practices are not commanded by the Bible.
8. No Military Service: Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse to serve in the military or take part in war, as they believe that killing is wrong and that God’s kingdom will bring peace to the earth.
Practical Applications
Jehovah’s Witnesses live their lives according to their beliefs, which manifest in various ways:
1. Public Witnessing: They engage in public witnessing, sharing their faith with others by distributing literature and engaging in conversations about their beliefs.
2. Community Service: They participate in community service projects and support those in need, as they believe that helping others is an expression of their love for God.
3. Family Life: They emphasize the importance of family life and strive to raise their children in a godly manner, teaching them the principles of their faith.
4. Health and Diet: They follow a healthful diet, avoiding unclean meats and certain other foods, as outlined in the Bible.
In conclusion, what a Jehovah’s Witness believes in is a unique blend of Bible-based teachings, a focus on the Kingdom of God, and a commitment to living according to their faith. Their beliefs shape their lifestyle, their relationships, and their role in society.
