Jehovah's Witnesses are sometimes labeled as being a cult. This might be a confusing definition for many, because cults can take on a wide variety of meanings. Usually this label is made by religious opposers and is used in a derogatory way.  While not every definition of the term "cult" is the same, the first century Christians had been described by those who were not Christians as “a sect” and were “everywhere spoken against,” sociologists  sometimes described the first century Christians as “a cult,” which centered around the charismatic leader Jesus (actually, Jesus was more of a reformer of the existing established religion of Judaism). The term cult today, usually carries a negative connotation, and has come to signify, in the mind of the public, as a religious (or other) group which has complete or extensive control over its members, using coercive and oppressive, most often times, unethical techniques and psychological pressure to obtain that control, in varying degrees, or micromanaging and making major or all decisions for its members.

The following examines those thoughts in a point by point comparison, taken from the book, Cults in Our Midst - the Hidden Menace in our Lives, by Margaret Thaler Singer, Ph.D., who is a clinical psychologist and adjunct professor at the University of California, Berkely, and who has counseled and interviewed more than 3,000 current of former cult members and their relatives and friends. She is an expert in cults and post-traumatic stress, and lectures widely in the U.S. and abroad on the subject. Jehovah's Witnesses are not mentioned or alluded to in her authoritative book, although she mentions by names dozens of existing and former cults. All of the forgoing points are based on the descriptions given to cults in Margaret Singer's book:

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1. There are no secret stages to becoming a Jehovah's Witness. Everything is out in the open from the start. Jehovah's Witnesses generally study one book with persons, based on the Bible, and use the Bible as the authority in all matters. The Bible study aid, "What Does the Bible Really Teach" outlines everything involved in becoming one of Jehovah's Witnesses, which is freely available to the public and to any who study with Jehovah's Witnesses from the start of one's studying the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses and is available for anyone to read on the Internet at the Watchtower.org site.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that "All Scripture (that is - the Bible) is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for settings things straight". 2 Timothy 3:16,17.  At the same time, they recognize that their literature and Bible study aids are not inspired of God, but rather, merely aids to understanding the Bible. This has been the position of Jehovah's Witnesses since their earliest years in modern history. They realize and state in their earliest literature that their work is not infallible, including anything printed in the Watchtower, but “imperfect” as Charles Russell stated in the 1800s. Public information on the Governing Body is not emphasized because the position of Jehovah’s Witnesses is that all honor should rightly go to God, rather than men, even as Jesus said,

     “Why do you call me good, one there is that is good, the Heavenly One.” Also, Jesus said, “Do no call anyone leader on earth, because one is your leader, the Christ, and do not call anyone father on earth [in a religious sense] because you have one Father in heaven.” Matthew 23:8.  

So rather than bring undue attention to themselves, they  the Governing Body take the position of trying to keep in the background, recognizing that their ministry is something that can be accomplished through God’s will, even without them as individuals. It is God’s work rather than man’s.

The Catholic Church bears many similarities to a “cult” in some respects. Not everything that goes on in the Vatican is open to the public. There are certainly secrets in the Vatican, but that hardly qualifies the Roman Catholic Church as a cult. The Roman Catholic Church is a religion, a “church” according to the sociological definition of the word.

Jehovah’s Witnesses, similarly, have an organizational structure, different from that of the Catholic Church, based as closely as possible on the Bible, and even though, for example, elders of Jehovah’s Witnesses receive instructions that are not necessarily made public, the instructions are all Bible based, and the vast majority of the information elders receive, if not all of it, has been, at one time or another, in been printed in the Watchtower magazine or other publications of Jehovah’s Witnesses, which are public information for anyone who desires to research it. Anything new with regards to elders responsibilities or procedures, is usually discussed publicly at the Watchtower study or Service meeting of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

For those who are associating regularly, it isn’t difficult to keep up with any updates, for those who do not associate, then they either wouldn’t have much interest in such details, or they only want to use the information that is available in a critical way, to pick it apart in criticism, even as the Bible itself has been criticized through such schools of thought as “higher criticism”. Any work of literature, including the Bible, can be scrutinized in criticism, and one can easily find fault with the way the Bible is written, and use examples to prove it. The Bible is “sexist,” it is “against women,” it is a “bloody book” filled with war, etc., you can prove pretty much any critical point on the Bible, good or bad, depending on how you select and present the information. However, when you examine the context of the Bible’s view of women and war, as a whole, from beginning to end, one can see that the Bible isn’t sexist, it treats and encourages treatment of women respectfully, it supports peace rather than war, but selected quotes and a biased slant  can result in a different conclusion. This is basically what is being done with Jehovah’s Witnesses in the label of cult.

Any religion for that matter can be considered a cult. Jehovah’s Witnesses pattern their worship after that of the first century Christians, and continually make adjustments so as to bring their worship more fully in line with that pattern, and while not perfect, the arrangements do provide a structure whereby one can become a Christian, and can continue in a Christian course, able to bear fruit as an active Christian. John 15:1-7. Jesus desires Christians not to be isolated inactive Bible readers and commentators/philosophers, but to be active in the community and congregation in helping others. The structure of Jehovah’s Witnesses and their ministry facilitates that purpose of God, as stated in the Bible, even as was the case in the first century Christian congregation. The first century Christians were organized in congregations, scattered throughout Jerusalem, what is now Turkey, Greece, Italy and Spain. It is believed that Christianity may have reached India in the first century, through the zealous evangelizing of the Apostles. Establishing congregations under the direction of the Apostles facilitated greater unity, and the ability to accomplish more in the first century than could have been accomplished through the work of isolated individuals.

2. Jehovah's Witnesses retain freedom of choice in the area of employment, where one chooses to live, and to what extent one wishes to associate with family who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. Reasonableness and balance are encouraged in Witness' publications in all areas of life. "Let your reasonableness become known to all men." Philippians 4:5. See 8/1/94 Watchtower, “Cultivate Reasonableness,” as one example.

Witnesses are not required to or encouraged to consult with elders or anyone, before or when making life decisions. In major decisions in life, Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to develop a strong personal relationship with God in prayer, Psalms 55:22, and to consider appropriate direction from the Bible,

"So, if any one of YOU is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him.  But let him keep on asking in faith, not doubting at all, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven by the wind and blown about.  In fact, let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from Jehovah;  he is an indecisive man, unsteady in all his ways.” (James 1:5-8).

Many have been concerned with the practice of Jehovah’s Witnesses of disfellowshipping, or what has been referred to by others as a form of “shunning”. This practice is something mandated in the Bible, even though it is generally not practiced in nominal or evangelical Christian churches. The Apostle Paul stated at 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, concerning a situation of fornication, but making a broader application to other types of serious sin,

^“YOUR [cause for] boasting is not fine. Do YOU not know that a little leaven ferments the whole lump?  In my letter I wrote YOU to quit mixing in company with fornicators,  not [meaning] entirely with the fornicators of this world or the greedy persons and extortioners or idolaters. Otherwise, YOU would actually have to get out of the world.  But now I am writing YOU to quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man.  For what do I have to do with judging those outside? Do YOU not judge those inside,  while God judges those outside? “Remove the wicked [man] from among yourselves.”

Similarly, the Apostle John wrote, “Everyone that pushes ahead and does not remain in the teaching of the Christ does not have God. He that does remain in this teaching is the one that has both the Father and the Son.  If anyone comes to YOU and does not bring this teaching, never receive him into YOUR homes or say a greeting to him.  For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.” 2 John 9-11.                                    Please see official site of Jehovah's Witnesses,

Practicing a Bible Standard - Disfellowshipping

What is stated in the Bible is what Jehovah’s Witnesses practice, it serves as a discipline to help many who have fallen into a patter of sin, to repent, which, it would seem, the majority eventually do, returning to the Christian way of life and being reinstated into the congregation, and additionally, it serves as a way of protecting the congregation from a spirit of fornication or other serious sins, so that that pattern does not infect the whole congregation, or put some in danger. This is in contrast with many evangelical churches where living together without marriage is openly practiced, which the Bible considers to be fornication, or where adultery is practiced and little is done to correct or discipline members involved in such wrongdoing. The first century Christian congregation was different, and efforts were made to keep the congregation clean from those who practiced sin. At the same time, elders are encouraged to and do make many efforts to help those who may have sinned or fallen into a pattern of sin.

3. Witnesses are not encouraged to leave their mates who may not be Jehovah's Witnesses, but to stay with them and work hard at a good marriage. Following the Bible principles on family life, even when only one member is a Witness, generally improves family life and the marital bond. "If any brother has an unbelieving wife, and yet she is agreeable to dwelling with him, let him not leave her;  and a woman who has an unbelieving husband, and yet he is agreeable to dwelling with her, let her not leave her husband.  For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in relation to [his] wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in relation to the brother; otherwise, YOUR children would really be unclean, but now they are holy.  But if the unbelieving one proceeds to depart, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not in servitude under such circumstances, but God has called YOU to peace.  For, wife, how do you know but that you will save [your] husband? Or, husband, how do you know but that you will save [your] wife?"  (1 Corinthians 7:12-16)

Family Life - Offiicial Site of Jehovah's Witnesses

4. Participation in the activity of Jehovah's Witnesses is not all-or-nothing. People enjoy and benefit from contact with the Witness Bible education work on all levels. Some read the Witness literature and derive benefit from articles on family life, raising children, or health articles on depression, mental health, many different facets of life are covered by Witness literature. Other's occasionally visit the Kingdom Hall, others come only once a year and are always made to feel welcome. Many associate regularly, and some choose to serve as missionaries, or in other aspects of full-time ministry. All is voluntary, and persons can participate in the full-time ministry for as long or short a period of time that they want to. "Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."  2 Corinthians 9:6-7. Some participate in the full-time ministry, the public Bible education work, others do so on a very limited basis. But, all are encouraged to imitate Jesus example of sharing the Bible's message with others. There is no "punishment" for those who don't, there is no hour requirement.

For elders and ministerial servants (deacons), the requirements are stated in the Bible, at  1 Timothy 3:1-12 and Titus 1:5-9.  For those who wish to “reach out” for this privilege, it is encouraged in the Bible. It is voluntary, some elders have stepped down because of family responsibilities or health, other reasons, but continue to retain other privileges in the congregation, until such time as they feel they are able to serve as elders again. If an elder no longer meets the requirements as stated in the Bible, then, he might not longer be able to continue as an elder, but again, still enjoy other responsibilities in

the congregation. It isn’t all-or-nothing, and there is emphasis on handling things reasonably.

5. All medical and dental care, including psychological services from non-Witness practitioners and doctors are in no way restricted. The Bible refers to the Bible writer Luke as "the beloved physician". There are no medical restrictions, except with regards to the Bible mandate to "abstain from blood." Acts 15:29.

Witnesses have been vigorous in the promotion of non-blood medicine, which has proven to be safer and, in most cases, more effective in saving lives than the use of blood transfusions. Many matters of medical care are a matter of conscience, left up to the conscience of each individual Christian in cases where the Bible does not specifically mention such practices. While the core belief on blood transfusions has remained consistent, the development of modern medicine in this area, involving such things as blood fractions, has necessitated addressing these issues, many of which are considered to be matters of individual conscience.

Organ transplants are one example in the matter of individual conscience, and these come in a variety of magnitudes, such as a cornea transplant, to the rather serious transplant of the heart. Where there are Bible principles which might be considered in some medical  decisions, individuals must make their own decisions on most or even all matters.

Jehovah's Witnesses and Health - Official Site

6. The Witness teaching encourages each Christian to train their mental faculties to discern what is right and wrong and grow to Christian maturity so as to personally apply Bible principles,  "But solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong.  For this reason, now that we have left the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to maturity." (Hebrews 5:14-6:1).

Jehovah’s Witnesses presently have two meetings a week. Formerly there were three meetings a week. One of those meetings includes  the reading of a section of the Bible, another talk highlights several chapters of the Bible for consideration and discussion.  All Jehovah’s Witnesses are encouraged to read the bible daily, which is, incidentally, written on the side of one of the Watchtower’s buildings in Brooklyn, “Read God’s Word the Holy Bible Daily.”  While Jehovah’s Witnesses do use literature other than the Bible in their spiritual program, all of that literature includes Bible verses quoted and referred to. This practice is on different than that of most Sunday schools, practiced in common churches, with the exception that literature from Jehovah’s Witnesses relies more heavily on the scriptures than do most churches. In one Watchtower study lesson, there are probably 30-50 Bible scriptures which are used or referred to, so it truly is Bible based. As it was stated in Nehemiah, when these Jews read the Torah, there was a “putting of meaning” into it.

However, individual Christians are encouraged to read the Bible themselves, and meditate on it, doing this daily. While there is much literature of Jehovah’s Witnesses, which is Bible based, there is encouragement to read the Bible daily, which is the one book which is “inspired by God.” 2 Timothy 3:16,17. In any public or assembly talk of Jehovah’s Witnesses 10-20 Bible scriptures are read. This might be compared to that of many churches, where usually only one or two scriptures might be  read, the rest being  a sermon. Jehovah’s Witnesses are encouraged to prepare for their meetings in personal study, at the same time, it has been stated, if one was to study only one aspect of their meetings, Bible reading is the most important.

7. Training received by Witnesses through Bible study and at their meetings, also accrues in tangible benefits in terms of secular employment. Diligence, hard work, working hard in school, for children and youth, learning to read well and the acquiring of life and secular skills to support oneself and to be self sufficient are stressed.  “The one working with a slack hand will be of little means, but the hand of the diligent one is what will make one rich.  The son acting with insight is gathering during the summertime; the son acting shamefully is fast asleep during the harvest.” (Proverbs 10:4-5)

Many Jehovah's Witnesses work as civil workers in government, although they do not run for political office, as teachers, principals, college professors, nurses, lawyers, doctors, psychologists, and other public walks of life.

8. The dogmas and structure of cults tends to be rigid and inflexible, unable to respond to outside criticism or to make adjustments. The doctrines that Jehovah's Witnesses subscribe to as well as the organizational structure, policies and practices tends to be more fluid, able to respond and adjust to changes in society and to justified criticisms. Jehovah's Witnesses have made  adjustments in doctrine from their earliest years, while maintaining the same basic framework of beliefs and doctrines.

The Bible says at Proverbs 4:18, “The light keeps on getting brighter and brighter until the day is firmly established.” The Apostle Paul said that at the time of the Apostles, their understanding of truth was like a “hazy outline” but the Apostle also stated that the time would come when they would see fully the body of truth. 1 Corinthians 13:12. Jehovah’s Witnesses have made some errors in their understanding concerning the time of Jesus’ coming on several occasions. However, from the earliest days, Charles Russell and the Watchtower has stated that Jehovah’s Witnesses do not claim to be infallible, that the Bible study aids of Jehovah’s Witnesses  are there as a guide to the Bible, or to point the finger to the Bible, and only the Bible is inspired of God. So when errors have been made, Jehovah’s Witnesses have humbly endeavored to correct them so that their thinking is more properly aligned with Jesus’ words and God’s will.

The Apostle Peter is an example of one who was used prominently as one of the twelve Apostles, but on at least one occasion, he was severely reprimanded by the Apostle Paul, because of his separating from Gentiles, something that had already been adjusted, changed, in the Christian congregation. Peter, apparently, humbly accepted this correction. Galatians 2:14. Others who were prominent in the early Christian Church, similarly adjusted their viewpoint on matters, Jesus himself correcting the Apostles for being overhasty in their desire to know when Jesus would return. Acts 1:6-9. So even though the Bible was inspired by God, and Jesus was perfect in all he said and did, the twelve Apostles themselves were prone to error or weaknesses, including Paul, whose own will sometimes conflicted with that of God’s. 2 Corinthians 12::8, 9.

As scientific understanding has progressed, Jehovah's Witnesses have adjusted their viewpoint, in harmony with scientific realities, while never abandoning their core belief in the Bible as God's Word and in God’s creatorship of all things. As a result, Jehovah's Witnesses have stated in recent years in their literature, that they do subscribe to the idea of microevolution, as one example, while not embracing macroevolution but holding to the Bible account of the creation of the first man and woman in Genesis. Genesis 1:1. Genesis 1:26-28. 

Adjustments also had been made in recent decades concerning their beliefs concerning the creative days of Genesis and their length of time. Genesis 1. They acknowledge that the age of the earth and of the universe, can be billions of years old, quoting Genesis 1:1, where it says simply, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." See Science page on this site.

Many criticisms from dissenting voices during the 1970s and early 1980s, had gradually been addressed in the coming decades by Jehovah's Witnesses, either, partly as a response to such criticism, or more likely as a natural course of development in efforts to refine the organizational structure, beliefs and practices, as time has progressed and in response to changes in society and organizational needs. Suggestions from various sources are considered, and this also has resulted in organizational refinements.

9. Jehovah's Witnesses have made efforts to decentralize much of their leadership and decision making in efforts towards simplification over the past twenty years, rather than increasing centralization.

Each country has a "branch committee," a separate entity from the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses, which is composed of at least some members (most times the majority) of the country in which the branch is located. The branch committees have authority over many minor and major decisions for the work they supervise in each country. Meetings which used to be conducted three times weekly, are now conducted twice weekly. Families are encouraged to study the Bible together, one night a week, on whatever topic they choose. Personal and family Bible reading is emphasized (as it really always has been). Bible reading and discussion is a prominent part of the weekly meeting of the Theocratic Ministry School.

Kingdom Halls (where Witnesses meet for worship) are not owned by the headquarters or by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, but by the individual congregations, who have a great deal of autonomy in decisions of the congregation, including buying and selling of the Kingdom Hall itself, any improvements that will be made on the Kingdom Hall, times of meetings, etc. A democratic vote is taken in some decisions involving the Kingdom Hall and congregation expenses, along the lines of the aforementioned points and others, in many or most cases. Questions and comments involving such decisions are permitted by all members.

Additionally, there are many involved in writing the articles and books Jehovah’s Witnesses use and circulate, the vast majority of Watchtower articles and other literature is not written by the Governing Body, but by other writers. Additionally, the Writing Committee of the Governing Body, who oversees the production of Bible literature, is not composed only of Governing Body members, but of  others who are involved in decision making with regards to the literature of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and this is true of all the various Committees which oversee the work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The large scope of the organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses necessitates delegating responsibilities beyond that of the Governing Body, even as the Apostles in Jerusalem, and the Apostle Paul sent out individuals such as Titus, with responsible roles in the early Christian congregation.

10. There is more than one avenue of appeal that can be sought by members if ever there are judicial decisions by local elders with which persons are not satisfied with.   Compare 1 Corinthians 5:9-12.

11. Individual members can contribute ideas and suggestions directly to Brooklyn by letter, either by name or anonymously, which are read, often times responded to, and often times considered by the Branch Committee of that country, other appropriate departments, or by the Governing Body. Sometimes such ideas by members are communicated to regional overseers, who pass these ideas on to the appropriate channels.

The role of the Governing Body is a scriptural role. In Acts 15, when there was a dispute about circumcision, the matter was passed on to the Apostles and older men in Jerusalem, these considered both sides of the argument, and handed down a decision, by holy spirit, which is recorded at Acts 15:19,20, 28, 29.  In Acts 15:24, this then existing Governing Body stated, “we did not give any instructions,” having “come to a unanimous accord,” and that they had chose Barnabas and Paul to send out. So that group of older men, which included the Apostles, had authority even over the Apostle Paul, who went on to write fourteen chapters of the Bible. Paul himself received authority from the holy spirit over the congregations, which many, which included Christians of that time, challenged, as is the case today with some  who challenge subjection to godly appointed authority.

Many challenged Moses appointment and complained of his authority as well. So, rebellion against authority is nothing new, but from the earliest times, really, since Eden, both men and angels have had a hard time with even God’s direct authority. Genesis 3:1-6.

In Acts 16:4, it states that  Paul and Barnabas were sent out and that “as they traveled on through the cities they would deliver to those there for observance the decrees that had been decided upon by the apostles and older men who were in Jerusalem.” As a result, it states, “the congregations continued to be made firm in the faith and to increase in number.” Acts 16:5,6. We learn that Christians were not individuals who operated independently, but were organized into congregations. This pattern continued until the book of Revelation, where the Apostle John received visions that became letters sent out to the various congregations of Christians scattered about, John being one of the, or the, last surviving Apostle. Revelation 1-3.

12. Jehovah's Witnesses have no mandatory financial obligation to the local congregation or the central organization. All contributions are non-coercive and completely voluntary, as well as anonymous. 2 Corinthians 9:1-7. While members are encouraged to support the local congregation and the worldwide work of Jehovah's Witnesses, no record is kept of contributions by individual members, anywhere, and one can get baptized and remain a member in good standing, as well as have privileges in the congregation, without any financial commitment, obligation or history. There is no tithing.

Money is not stressed at Christian meetings, Bible Studies or door-to-door and other avenues of ministry in harmony with Jesus' words, "You received free, give free." While money is a reality in society today, including the work of true Christians, and the Bible itself does encourage contributing to support Christian work, Jehovah’s Witnesses contribute, as the Bible states, according to what their heart impels them to.

The example is sometimes given, as related by Jesus, of the “widow’s mite” where Jesus tells the story of a needy widow who dropped in the contribution box at the temple, more than all the rest, even though it was “two small coins” God valued it more than the ostentatious contributions of those trying to impress others. So while the matter of giving monetarily is given attention in the Bible and by Jesus, it wasn’t the focus of their mission. The same is true of Jehovah’s Witnesses today. If any say that there is pressure to give monetarily, this is a lie, there is no pressure in this respect, Jehovah’s Witnesses are exemplary in following the Bible’s instructions and loving and reasonable balance on finances of the Christian congregation.

No individual members of the Jehovah's Witness organization in any way personally benefits, including the Governing Body, from contributions.  Those who serve at Bethel homes, the headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses, from those who clean the complex to the Governing Body live in the same modest rooms, each not so much different than the others, receiving a the same minimal allowance for living expenses and those who work at the Bethel homes subscribe to a  vow of poverty, ensuring that no individual will benefit monetarily in any way from the work or finances of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

All, including the Governing Body, are encouraged to live simply, as Jesus did, and to focus on spiritual rather than material treasures, to God’s glory and not to any man’s, as the Bible says, and as  one Governing Body member encouraged all at a meeting for missionaries, “Do all things for God’s glory.” Any who volunteer to work at Bethel homes, headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses, are free to stay or leave at any time, with no penalties or loss of privileges.

13. Families of Jehovah's Witnesses deal directly with schools. Children may attend public or private schools. Jehovah's Witnesses are not encouraged to home school their children, but at the same time, recognize that some parents might choose to do so, and support that decision as well, recognizing freedom of choice in the area of education. Attending college is a personal decision, and while young people are encouraged to pursue the full-time ministry if they are at all able, in imitation of the lifestyle of Jesus, see            1 Pet 2:21, many attend college upon leaving high school or at a later date, and there are no loss of privileges in the congregation for doing so. Many areas of personal decisions not specifically commented on in the Bible, although there may be Bible principles which individual Christians can apply in making many decisions in life. In cults, "children, child rearing, and education are often controlled by the whims and idiosyncracies of the cult leader."

In our congregation we have one medical doctor with  Ph.D., one  with an MBA,  one teacher with a BA and several teaching certificates, one former teacher with a BA in math, physics, and teaching, one doctorate student finishing his degree in educational leadership, one student finishing up her teaching degree, and one student finishing up her BA in business administration. We have others with complete or almost complete college as well. We have a couple of youths who opted not to take college and to pioneer. We have a youth who was in the full-time ministry, started college, and then quit, went back to the full-time ministry. We have one young person who started college to be a lawyer. When he started college there was no pressure at all for him not to go to college. While we have about eighty in our congregation, it seems like we have a good sampling of those who have gone to college, and those who have not. While encouragement and emphasis is placed on the full-time ministry for young people, there is no coercion, and to attend college of not to attend is a personal decision. For young people the Apostle Paul’s words concerning the option of remaining single to do more for the Christian cause, was “not to throw a noose around your neck, but to move you to what is becoming.” In other words, there is gentle shepherding in many areas of Christianity, but not authoritative pressure. This is the truth of the matter with Jehovah’s Witnesses, which is why, even when loving direction is given in matters involving conscience, based on the Bible, it isn’t coercive, and everyone retains their freedom of choice.

1 Peter 5:1-5.

14. Jehovah's Witnesses have no charismatic leader. They teach that only the Bible is the inspired word of God, and while they value the Bible literature they use in their ministry and meetings, they do not feel that these are infallible, or that they are inspired of God, but refer to the Bible as the final word on any doctrinal matters. They believe in the words of Jesus, which state. "But YOU, do not YOU be called Rabbi, for one is YOUR teacher, whereas all YOU are brothers. 9 Moreover, do not call anyone YOUR father on earth, for one is YOUR Father, the heavenly One. 10 Neither be called 'leaders,' for YOUR Leader is one, the Christ. 11 But the greatest one among YOU must be YOUR minister." (Matthew 23:8-11) So Jehovah's Witnesses do not recognize any living human leader, but consider God and Jesus Christ to be their leaders.

15. Jehovah's Witnesses are not encouraged  to study diligently the Bible, to "see if these things are so," as the Bible encourages. "Now the latter were more noble-minded than those in Thes·sa·lo·ni′ca, for they received the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily as to whether these things were so." (Acts 17:11) "Make sure of all things; hold fast to what is fine," the Bible encourages.               (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Personal Bible reading is encouraged and stressed. Psalms 1:1-3. One Governing Body member, a few years ago, encouraged the local congregation to read, personally, the Bible daily, using Psalms 1:1-3 as the pivot point of his talk. Personal Bible reading and meditation on what we read is essential for good spiritual health, and has always been encouraged.  Bible reading has been likened to frozen holy spirit, in other words, God’s holy spirit is with us when we personally read the Bible, and if we read the Bible and study the Bible daily, on a personal level, we gain spiritual maturity, and in times of decision or trial, the holy spirit can recall to our minds scriptures, which can be of help and support to us.

16. Jehovah's Witnesses do not feel that they are above the laws of the land, but encourage members to obey the national, state and local laws, and to pay all taxes, even if these laws or taxes are inconvenient. Romans 13. Only when the government requires Witnesses to violate Bible principles do they peacefully object, such as in such matters as carnal warfare, participating in politics, or acts of idolatry such as to totalitarian leaders (Hitler being one example) or prohibitions on aspects of their worship. "In answer Peter and the [other] apostles said: "We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29). Jehovah's Witnesses do not salute the flag of any country, as they view this as being an act of idolatry. They give their full allegiance only to God. Compare Daniel 3:16-18. Ex 20:1-4. See Jehovah's Witnesses - View of Authority - Official site.

17. Jehovah's Witnesses keep all of his own pay, property, presents from family or relatives, inheritances, and so on. In many cults, members are expected to turn over to the cult all monies and worldly possessions. Christians have the scriptural obligation to provide materially for their families (1 Timothy 5:8) and need to work secularly to support themselves, "If any man does not want to work, neither let him eat." 2 Thess 3:10-12.

18. Rational behavior and thinking is encouraged. Members are not encouraged to drop out of school, quit their job, live in some special place, leave their families, or disown their children or families, if these are not Witnesses. Quite the opposite is true of Jehovah's Witnesses. They are encouraged to care for their family members who may not be Jehovah's Witnesses, including, and especially, parents. 1 Tim 5:3-8.

19. There are no psychological or medical experiments among Jehovah's Witnesses, nor are Jehovah's Witness contacts ever used for recruitment for such purposes, as is sometimes the case with cults. This is beyond the scope of anything associated with the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses.

20. Reading,  knowledge, outside of Witness literature is not frowned upon or discouraged. Witness literature, as an example, quotes from a wide variety of secular sources and non-Witness authorities.

Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to keep up with current events in the world, and this is generally accomplished by information from non Jehovah’s Witness sources. As one Jehovah’s Witness stated, she was a “voracious reader,” not only of Jehovah’s Witness literature, but from that of secular sources as well.

Home schooling is a choice for all persons to decide for their children, but while some Witnesses choose to home school their children, the vast majority attend public schools. Reading the newpaper or news magazines, keeps one informed. The only literature that Jehovah's Witnesses are discouraged from reading is literature with spiritism, sexual (in a provocative rather than an informative way), or apostate literature. This is because, apostate literature is usually very negative, and usually mixes the truth with rumor, half-truths, and speculation. This is true even of some apostate literature from learned individuals, rumor, speculation, exagerration, and slander are some of the tactics from a few writers, who betray sincere Christians and their ethical and secular integrity by producing books of slander.

If one indulges in much of negative material, it can effect one's outlook. We are encouraged to look positively towards fellow Christians rather than to search for their faults, or become a fault-finder of others, or of the Christian faith of which we practice.

21. Good health, good eating habits, balanced nourishment, getting adequate rest, seeing a doctor regularly, having health insurance is all encouraged and supported by Jehovah's Witnesses in their literature and books, as well as at congregation meetings. "Many cults encourage or require unhealthy and bizarre diets. Typically, because of intense work schedules, lack of funds, and other cult demands, members are not able to maintain healthy eating habits." Jehovah's Witnesses who engage in the Christian ministry are encouraged to do so in a balanced way, not neglecting their own physical or material needs, or those of their families, and taking time for adequate rest, for "recharging the batteries," and for balanced recreation and family vacations. Eccl 3:4b.

22. Witness support literacy programs in areas where the illiteracy rate is high and are encouraged to become good readers. This has benefited many who never become Jehovah’s Witnesses and who have availed themselves of the literacy programs.

23. Witness disaster relief programs include non-Witness members and neighbors. "Really, then, as long as we have time favorable for it, let us work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to [us] in the faith." (Galatians 6:10)

24. There is no brainwashing, or "thought reform" methods, with Jehovah's Witnesses. The only "re-education" among Jehovah's Witnesses is by teaching of the Bible and the application of Bible principles for Christians, which many are not familiar with before studying the Bible. This often does result in changes in one's lifestyle. Former drunkards, drug addicts, persons leading immoral lives, have many times changed as a result of Bible studies with Jehovah's Witnesses, even as was true in the first century. "Do not be misled. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who lie with men, nor thieves, nor greedy persons, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit God's kingdom.  And yet that is what some of YOU were. But YOU have been washed clean, but YOU have been sanctified, but YOU have been declared righteous in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the spirit of our God." (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

While the weekly meetings, the study of the Bible based lesson of the Watchtower study, which is not written by the Governing Body, but by writers at Bethel, and the book study in the weekly meeting, involves question and answer based on the lesson for that week, there is considerable room for personal expression in one’s comments. One can include personal experiences, research, insight and expression. It often depends on the depth of maturity of the one commenting. A child, for example, might only be able to read a sentence in giving his or her comment, and this can be true of one who is still immature spiritually. On the other hand, one who is more mature, is able to give deeper comments based on personal experience or knowledge. So there is a broad range of maturity, intelligence and ability in most congregations, and this is reflected in the type of comments offered at Christian meetings.

25. Witnesses are encouraged to be totally honest in their dealings with each other and the public. "Conduct ourselves honestly in all things." Heb 13:18, and to not use any for of deceit. John 1:47. There are no double standards. Jesus condemned the Pharisees of his day for hypocrisy. Matt 23. What is practiced by Jehovah's Witnesses is practiced from the top down, which are basically the standards that are found in the Bible regarding morals, honest, ethics, and so on. There are no hidden agendas or trickery in their evangelizing or other activities. They do not deceive, manipulate or exploit, or in any way abuse members. The opposite is true, a support system is encouraged to help one another to get through life's difficulties. Unselfish love is stressed and taught. "By this all will know that you are my disciples if you have long among yourselves." John 13:34,35.

26. Jehovah's Witnesses have no "fronts" from which they operate behind. All of their activities are strictly religious, and their public house-to-house ministry is both Bible based, and easily scrutinized by the public and the media. Many cults operate behind guises of "restaurants, self-help groups, business training workshops, prosperity clubs, psychotherapy clinics, martial arts centers, diet plans, campus activities, and political organizations."

27. There are no mind-numbing treatments in the Jehovah's Witness religion which many cults employ. Jehovah's Witnesses do not mix Eastern religion of philosophies and shun anything remotely associated with occultism. Rev 21:8. They do not practice or encourage Eastern meditation or emptying of one's mind in any way.

28. Jehovah's Witnesses do not wage lawsuit campaigns, as a practice, against critics or dissenters, which many large cults are noted for. Slander is in a different category, and any individual or organization can legally protect oneself from slander if it is malicious or excessive. Some apostate and opposing websites against Jehovah’s Witnesses have been referred to by one director of parental internet control software as “hate sites” and there have been  “hate crimes,” which included the loss of life against Jehovah’s Witnesses and their Kingdom Halls. So Jehovah’s Witnesses do protect themselves against physical or, in some rare cases, verbal assaults, but these rare situations are exceptional and uncommon, no different than that of any other corporation.

29. Jehovah's Witnesses discourage all-or-nothing thinking, which many cults utilize to control their followers, but rather teach that God accepts people on varying degrees of goodness and varying stages of spiritual growth and maturity, that if there is just a little bit of good in us, God can make it grow. See Watchtower, April 1, 1995, You Are Precious in God's Eyes:

"It is with great subtlety that he reads hearts, and he values good qualities in all degrees. 11 For instance, when Jehovah decreed that the entire apostate dynasty of King Jeroboam was to be executed, cleared away like "dung," He ordered that just one of the king's sons, Abijah, be given a decent burial. Why? "Something good toward Jehovah the God of Israel has been found in him." (1 Kings 14:10, 13) Did this mean that Abijah was a faithful worshiper of Jehovah? Not necessarily, since he died, as did the rest of his wicked household. (Deuteronomy 24:16) Still, Jehovah valued the "something good" that he saw in Abijah's heart and acted accordingly. Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible notes: "Where there is but some good thing of that kind, it will be found: God that seeks it, sees it, be it ever so little, and is pleased with it." And do not forget that if God finds even a small measure of some good quality in you, he can make it grow as long as you endeavor to serve him faithfully."

If one is reaching out for a position of responsibility in the congregation, this is something that the Bible itself recommends. 1 Tim 3:1-7. The Bible gives the requirements to be an elder or ministerial servant (deacon). So there are higher standards that the Bible requires for those taking the lead. Some have served as elders or in other capacities, and have had to stop doing so for one reason or another, but still continue to make valuable contributions to the congregation, just in another role. God accepts this and approves of it, and is aware of one’s limitations. The Watchtower repeatedly emphasizes that God is happy with what we can do, not what we can’t do, or in comparison with another person.

30. Jehovah's Witnesses "confess" sins as one studies the Bible, to God. There is no confession process necessary in one's progress as a Christian, although some might need to talk about matters from the past.

The Watchtower publications and the Bible itself often stress the love and mercy of God in harmony with the thoughts in the Bible that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness," "as a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those fearing him, for he well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dusts." "As far off as the sunrise is from the sunset, so far off has he placed our sins from us." Psalms 103:9-14. "He that does not love has not come to know God, because God is love." 1 John 4:8, 9. Even for those who fall into wrongdoing, attempts are made to help these ones to come back to the fold and restore their relationship with God. In recent years especially, reasonableness has been stressed by Jehovah’s Witness publications. Elders are encouraged to be loving shepherds, while at the same time protecting the flock. 1 Peter 5:1-5.

31.   Marriage, for Jehovah’s Witnesses  is a personal choice, there is no forced celibacy, even among elders, who are usually family and working men. There are no unusual sexual requirements or agendas, other than following the moral principles as stated in the Bible, that sex is a normal part of married life, but that it is a healthy form of expression only within the marriage arrangement. 1 Cor 7:1-7. "Doubling," or the formation of a pseudo personality, is something unheard of among Jehovah's Witnesses.

32. Jehovah's Witnesses are encouraged to show love to their neighbors, according to Jesus' teaching, regardless of their race, religion, or ideologies. Matthew 22:36-38.

33. Witnesses do not employ psychological tactics or research these in efforts to gain members. They feel that the greatest psychological force is self-sacrificing love, and that the evidence of that genuine love, is evidence enough for the practice of true Christianity. John 13:34,35. People can recognize sincerity and love, and this is the true drawing power of God, as it says in the Bible, "God is love." 1 John 4:8.

     “Everyone who hates his brother is a man-slayer, and YOU know that no man-slayer has everlasting life remaining in him.  By this we have come to know love, because that one surrendered his soul for us; and we are under obligation to surrender [our] souls for [our] brothers.  But whoever has this world's means for supporting life and beholds his brother having need and yet shuts the door of his tender compassions upon him, in what way does the love of God remain in him?  Little children, let us love, neither in word nor with the tongue, but in deed and truth.” (1 John 3:15-18)

Love isn’t  a psychological tactic, it is something genuine from the heart. The Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to work hard at his “art of teaching” so as to be able to “save both himself and all those listening to him”. This applies to us as Christians as well. So, improving in teaching on Bible studies and in the house to house work, isn’t a psychological tactic, but it as with anything, we need to be skilled at it, in order to be effective. A teacher in school has to learn how to teach effectively, using questions, and other methods, to reach her students. The same is true in teaching Bible truths.

34. There is nothing mystical or esoteric, occultish in the worship of Jehovah's Witnesses. These are things to be avoided, according to the Bible. There are not hidden levels of knowledge that one gradually attains to, or that are revealed at different stages of progress. The meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses are open to the public, to persons who are not Jehovah's Witnesses. Revelation 22:17.

Jehovah’s Witnesses do not consider themselves to be perfect as individuals or as a religion, as one Governing Body member recently mentioned in a public talk addressed to missionaries. However, they are a group of sincere Christians endeavoring to fully follow the teachings of Jesus and the Bible, and to help others to follow Jesus and the Bible’s teachings as well.

All things considered, then, Jehovah's Witnesses might then, more clearly be defined as an established religion, or as having resemblance to a Christian denomination, rather than to a cult or sect.

“By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” Jesus. John 13:34,35.

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This is not an official document or statement by Jehovah's Witnesses or the Watchtower Society, but rather, a commentary by  one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and social science undergraduate.

See: Jehovah's Witnesses at www.jw-media.org for official public information concerning Jehovah's Witnesses. Also please see the Sociological Definitions page on this site for further information concerning religious definitions and Jehovah's Witnesses. (not an official site).