1. 1 John 4:1

2. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” “We need to examine, not only what we personally believe, but also what is taught by any religious organization with which we may be associated. Are it’s teachings in full harmony with God’s Word, or are they based on the traditions of men? If we are lovers of the truth, there is nothing to fear from such an examination.” (The Truth that Leads to Eternal Life, Brooklyn: The Watchtower Bible & tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1968, p. 13) The Bible says “test” all things (1 John 4:1; 1 Thess. 5:21; Eph. 5:9-11).

3. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” I. CHARLES TAZE RUSSELL (1852 – 1916) A. Predicted Jesus’ Return in 1874. B. Predicted Jesus would take His throne in 1878. C. Predicted then 1914 and 1918. D. Russell Claimed inspiration like the apostles & to be the only one who could interpret the Bible.

4. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” II. J. F. RUTHERFORD (1869-1942) A. Predicted end in 1925. 1. Middle Tennessee center of Heaven. 2. Published “Millions Now Living Will Never Die”. Dead would rise. All churches, govts, etc. lose charters in 1925. All old would find fountain of youth. Missing legs, teeth, bald heads would be fixed.

5. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” II. J. F. RUTHERFORD (1869-1942) B. Predicted end in 1975. C. Thus, the founders & the Watchtower Society itself have made many FALSE predictions (Deut. 18:20-22). D. Call for end of speculation: “We do not need to know the exact timing of events. Rather, our focus must be on being watchful, cultivating strong faith and keeping bust in Jehovah’s service.” (Quote from Watchtower Magazine via San Jose Mercury News, World Section, p. 29-A, Sunday, Nov. 12, 1995.)

6. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” III. START WITH AUTHORITY A. We could study ________, but they will dismiss it as “your interpretation.” 1. That the kingdom is the church (Rev. 5:9-10; Acts 20:28). 2. Man has a soul (Matt. 10:28). 3. Hell is as real (Mt. 25:41, 46). 4. Premillenialism is false (Rev. 1:1; 20:4). 5. Jesus is God (Jn. 1:1; Is. 43:10-11; Jn. 20:28-29). 6. The Holy Spirit is God (Ax 5:3-4; Eph. 4:30).

7. THE “JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES” III. START WITH AUTHORITY B. We must start with authority in order to straighten out anything else (Deut. 12:32 – 13:5; Pr. 30:5-6; Rev. 22:18-19). THEY DO NOT BELIEVE THE BIBLE (Rom. 1:16)!

8. WHAT WILL OUR STANDARD OF AUTHORITY BE? 1. The Bible Alone. 2. The Watchtower Bible & Tract Society. 3. The Bible as interpreted by the WTBTS. 4. If other than the above, please explain.