The Bible vs. The Watchtower

This review is posted on Amazon:

5.0 out of 5 stars … The anecdote works, January 6, 2010
Cochise Pendleton set out to write a book that would provide an anecdote to the Watchtower addiction which controls even those who’ve left the organization. The last page sums it all up by restating the author’s purpose in exposing the Watchtower’s lack of credibility which in turn renders their teachings meaningless. I believe he accomplished his goal. As one formerly addicted to the Watchtower’s pseudo Christian teachings, I agree that in order to accept any other biblical interpretation, the mighty wall of Watchtower authority has to come down first.

“The Bible vs. The Watchtower’s” presentation as a “case” shows the qualities of an attorney’s touch and in so doing lives up to the title which promises it’s jury “you decide…” The scope of this jury ranges from struggling current and former members of Jehovah’s Witnesses, the family and friends called to help and understand their addiction, and the body of Christ given the commission to share the true gospel of Jesus Christ with those who show up at their doors. The author offers tips on how Christians can go about sharing their faith respectfully with one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and includes the story of his own spiritual journey as well.

Among the variety of books authored by former members of this religion, Mr. Pendleton’s stands out as unique due to the scores of Watchtower quotes and court case trial transcripts he managed to fit within less than 100 pages. It’s concise size with such easily referenced quotes make this a valuable ministry tool for those engaged in reaching Watchtower members. I would also recommend it for church leaders equipping their members through small group studies.
Julie
former member of Jehovah’s Witnesses

This review is posted on Barnes and Noble:

5.0 of 5 stars … An Easy & Informative Read even for the Non-Secular Crowd
Posted January 9, 2010, 7:46 PM EST: The Author has clearly shown the JW Watchtower as being cult-like without being preachy; I truly enjoyed the ” You Decide ” aspect of the book and due to the Author’s Extensive Research, the Reader is shown the overwhelming evidence not favorable to his former JW Faith.
Chuck

The first review was taken from Barnes and Noble, and Mary gave it a 5-Star Rating:

Posted January 2, 2010, 6:01 PM EST: This book is exactly what the title states, Bible Vs. The Watchtower, it proves that by using the Bible and comparing it with the Watchtower’s teachings, you can come to the conclusion for your self. The Watchtower claim’s they are God’s sole channel here on earth, the book brings the bible into the light of every claim, even use’s the Watchtower’s own material! The author present’s the evidence you decide! Wonderfully written, informative, not bias, I recommend this book to everyone to read.

The second review came from Amazon …. and it too was given a 5-Star Rating:

January 4, 2010    A must read book!

The third review provided by Chum Alexanian reads:

“I would like to express my gratitude to Cochise for The Bible vs. The Watchtower … You Decide … Cochise’s research and scholarship are irrefutable.  The facts are documented and commentary is minimized.  As an evangelical Christian, I endorse the book … I am grateful to Cochise for affirming the clear Scriptural position of God-man, Jesus Christ, and His finished, redemptive work for all at Calvary.  Therefore, I recommend this book for all Christians as a source for evangelizing Jehovah’s Witnesses.”

“The Watchtower invites careful and critical examination of its contents in the light of the Scriptures.”[1]

“If the message Jehovah’s Witnesses are bringing to the people is true, then it is of greatest importance to mankind.  If it is false, then it is the duty of the clergymen and others who support them to come boldly forward and plainly tell the people wherein the message is false.”[2]

The above invitation found in the Watchtower magazine forms the underlying premise for this book.  In other words, does Watchtower truth differ from God’s truth?

“We should prove by the word of God whether the things found in the Watchtower are from man or from the Lord!”[3]

In accepting this invitation, we will present Watchtower doctrine as revealed in Watchtower publications, recorded documents, speeches given at Watchtower conventions, and court testimony, then we will proceed to “carefully and critically” test it alongside scripture.

First and foremost, however, it is important to understand how the Watchtower Organization has established such a magnetic influence of its followers.  Therefore, we will start by identifying the four underlying sources of the Watchtower’s authority.

INTRODUCTION

The primary purpose of this book is to bring transparency to the Watchtower Organization’s influence over people across the world.  How has the Organization been able to influence so many people from all walks of life?  Why are people drawn to their teachings?  What causes some to leave their churches and join the Watchtower’s membership?

One explanation is the extremely effective proselytizing methods used by the Watchtower.  Their message is uniform throughout the Organization, so much so that every congregation (church) of Jehovah’s Witnesses across the globe receives the same weekly message, including instructions regarding their house-to-house ministry, so that when they knock on your door they are well-rehearsed, arriving in respectable attire, often with children at their side, to deliver a message that is simple and direct.

Another very powerful reason is the Watchtower’s uncanny ability to convince people that they act on God’s authority and are His sole instrument on earth.

Therefore, our approach will not focus on Watchtower interpretation of scripture; rather, we will concentrate on the foundation of Watchtower eschatology (doctrine).  In doing so, we will not only consider the reasons set forth above in more depth, we will also examine some foundational Watchtower teachings that the average Jehovah’s Witness has never known and will undoubtedly be shocked to learn.  Then, as the title indicates, we will analyze several of those teachings in conjunction with biblical authority, and you can decide for yourself whether God’s Word supports or refutes each such claim.