History of Jehovah's Witnesses
I find the history of Jehovah's witness fascinating. How can a religion that has changed it's doctrines and beliefs so many times still be around? I have read many articles claiming the history of Jehovah's Witnesses started in or around 1870. But, this is just not exactly true. Charles Taze Russell started his own bible study group in or around that time after rejecting what he found being taught in the churches near him. Some people called this group Russellites after him. They were a a small independent group who rejected the trinity and trinitarian churches but still loved the Bible. Charles Russell's writings and followers are still around. In fact you can still obtain his books and writings from the Internet for personal bible study.
When C.T. Russell passed away his lawyer J.F. Rutherford took over the group and systematically started changing many of C.T. Russell's beloved beliefs about God and the Bible. Many of Russell's faithful followers could not agree or support the new president's beliefs and his strong personality and tactics and they left the new organization over the course of several years. Some estimates say that at least 75% eventually left.
Then in or around 1932 the charismatic leader and president of the organization J.F. Rutherford (also called Judge Rutherford) changed the group's name to Jehovah's Witnesses instead of the bible students. This led to a lot of hurt and anger on both sides I would imagine. when I was brought up in the 1970's people were still talking about it in hushed tones around the kitchen table. I did not know exactly what it all meant but I remember it was not in a positive light and I specifically remember the name Russellites. That is why the name has stuck with me all of this time and I was shocked to find out that C.T. Russell's followers were still around because I was told like a lot of others that Jehovah's Witnesses were started in 1870.
I also find it very peculiar that despite the Jehovah's witnesses claim to be non-political or neutral their new president "Judge" Rutherford a lawyer did not seem to be so neutral. He led the group to the supreme court over issues of their right to freedom of religion and freedom to go door to door and not taking blood transfusions ordered by a doctor to save a life and at one time shots or certain surgery. I also find it curious that even though they fought so hard for religious freedom if a member wants out or wants to go to a different church (even if it is christian) they will be disfellowshipped and shunned. So, you may have the freedom to leave the Jehovahs witness organization but you may have to leave without your friends, family, your good name, and in some cases your livelihood.
Sincerely
JimmiK
