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Knocking Talkback comments
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5/29/07
Benita J Porter
It was the best portrayal of Jehovah's Witnesses, who they really are and what they believe and practice that I have seen, to date, on television.You are to be congratulated! And if I could give an award for excellence in reporting, it would be to Independent Lens and the producer(s) of the film for the objective and factual portrayal of a, too often, wrongly maligned people. Thank you!
5/29/07
Duncan Buckland
Devon, England
We have not seen Knocking on television, as we live in the U.K., but having bought a copy on DVD and watched it, we would like to say thankyou to PBS for showing this film in your country, and only hope that it will be seen in Europe so Again, THANK YOU.
5/29/07
I just watched KNOCKING and was enlightened by the exact facts of the religion of Jehovahs witnesses. thank you I hope to watch it again at a more convient time, perhaps an evening hour.
5/29/07
Karen
Baltimore, Maryland
I just wanted to say that after viewing "Knocking", I felt so proud to be the sister of the two practicing families. I am African American and we truly are brothers and sisters, No matter what race, culture, heritage, or whereever in the world we may travel,we truly are brothers and sisters. We love each other not just because we are witnessses, but also because we love Jehovah. That love is extended to our neighbors, the very reason we come "Knocking". Thank you for the fine job you did in revealing that we are just ordinary people with strong convictions that we strive hard to practice daily. We are holding on as the rest of the world, but our hope is in Jehovah. Thanks again........I would love to know how my brother who had the liver transplant is doing. His experience really touched my heart. I give you permission to give him and his wife my email address. Thanks again and (I know you're familiar with this saying - have a good day! (smile)
5/29/07
This documentary well-captured the most important issues surrounding Jehovah's Witnesses. I am a JW and I found it interesting to step back and take a look at this perspective being given to my religion. I found it accurate and touching. The story of the Holocaust survivor was especially important to me. However, it is disheartening to read some of the slanderous comments posted here. It seems they take delight in taking focus away from the film and towards perpetuating their own agenda. Anyways, thank you to the filmmakers for their work.
5/29/07
John
Canada
To: Joel & Tom An excellent film. Well done. I bought the DVD. It is a very balanced perspective. Those that say otherwise are just bitter opposers, it really is that simple. Don't listen to them guys.Given your background I admire that you did this, some would have taken the road of bitter resentment like some of the posts here, you lifted yourself above all that, and produced something of a supportive nature, even though you decided that the truth wasn't for you. I think the biggest critics of you, deep down are actually jealous, that you can do this, being positive verses being ultra negative about the situation.And they can't dispute the amazing number of court cases the JW have won in the supreme court that advances ALL peoples freedom. Good Job guys and THANK YOU.
5/29/07
TRACY LAMBERT
BRISTOL,PA
I just wanted to say that this documentary was fabulous. I think for those who watched it, they hopefully got a glimpse of what our ministry is about and why it is apart of our lives. You documented the differences and the very true essence of our families and how the differences effect our them in a way that was understandable. I always watch programs on PBS and have purchased documentaries. I look forward to other documentaries in the future.
5/29/07
K. A.
Va
I really enjoyed the documentary KNOCKING. I felt that it was quite balanced because it gave not only the view of the witness families (which I can relate to) but also of the unbelieving family members. I hope it serves as a help to those who may be afraid to ask JW's questions because of misinformation. To those who were witnesses and have been hurt, I feel so badly for you. Unfortunately, humans are still imperfect and that includes JW's. Any injustices or overly judgemental attitudes that damaged you are not OK to Jehovah and he will handle matters in his own way and time. These things were not his fault. We do not serve people, we serve Jehovah.
5/29/07
Lynn
Connecticut
I am a JW. During my 35 years as one, I was disfellowshipped for 5 years, for unrepentant fornication. I am now a JW again in good standing, once I repented. What one has to realize is that when someone is "shunned" it is not because they are going against a man or an organization but because they are going against God. They are saying no to Jehovah, not man. Everyone has a right to choose what they will do but they also have to accept the consequences of their actions. Jehovah is not partial. He sets the same standard for everyone. Just as in the laws of the land, one can break the laws but they will suffer the consequences. Jehovah is the Supreme Perfect Lawgiver. We have no reason to question His authority. Living under His laws we have the freedom of love, kindness and goodness, how can that be wrong?? Joel, you did an excellent job with your film. It brings to mind the scripture Matthew 25:37-40. I hope you will soon come to an accurate knowledge of Jehovah's tender mercies and rejoin the fold.
5/29/07
AJ
Abortion, pedophilia, drug issues, infidelity, torn families...these are all regular occurences within the JW organization that are not explored or admitted to. What they did not show is that JWs make notes about you when they come to your home and you say "yes" or "no"... my Mom has pegged people as demons, as lonely, as poor --- all on her little note sheet where she records her hours, hours, hours, and hours of time - KNOCKING! in my experience...JWs are very judgmental and will not debate anyone who has a chance of knocking down their views. people need to wake up and understand that this religion was started by a man who believed in the occult and mysticism and based his beliefs on it. later leaders were just as bad as a lot of the same preachers they denegrate...look up Beth-Sarim. They use fear under the guise of "love" and try to make members believe that they will never succeed in life if they leave...so untrue. please don't get me started on their constant excuses for getting the date for the end of the world wrong, again, and again, and again, despite the fact that the bible says not even Jesus knows the time or the place.
5/29/07
April
VA
The documentary did not show a lot that goes on within this organization and also a lot about its history and leaders was left out. It was almost like JWs made the documentary...ask anyone who has had the JW experience and decided to leave.
5/29/07
Pavel Sebek
St. Louis
Thank you for showing this film. I found it very informative and ballanced. What was very interesting was the fact that Witnesses were persecuted both in nazi Germany as well as in the US at the same time, and later on in all the communist countries.Can you imagine this country if all the professing Christians (85% of the population claim to be Christian)followed the simple commandment of Jesus: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matt 7:12
5/29/07
SL
Lake City, Fl
I see many JW's here are touting this film as a balanced view of the JW life style/experience. However, the JW shunning practice that has devastated thousands of families and destroy untold lives, is simply glossed over. The filmmaker touts all the JW court wins, but non of its losses. The filmmaker goes on to show a JW family taking (unnecessary) medical risks, yet still beating the odds by refusing blood while having a liver operation(s). But nothing is really said (or discussed) about the countless men, women and even minor children who have died refusing blood throughout the history of the Watchtower Society. Nothing is mentioned about the child abuse controversy the JW�s and the Watchtower Society are under so much fire about these days. The several false end-of-the-world prophecies made by the Watchtower Society from its conception are simply mentioned in passing, as no big deal. Though JW�s have made serious life decisions due to the Watchtower Society�s continual false predictions (sold their houses, refused college for children, etc.) It makes no mention of those JW�s who have died in the past refusing organ transplants when it was the �blood� issue of that day. But now organ transplants are acceptable. The filmmaker allows a few moments of opposing comments by a concerned (non-JW) mother/grandmother about her JW family, and then spends the rest of the filmed time practically as an info-mercial or ad for the Watchtower Society. I don't see this as a balance "documentary" at all. I certainly do see this as a biased and pro JW film. No wonder the JW�s approve of it. If it were a balanced representation of the JW life style and experience, JW�s would be defaming the filmmaker and discrediting the film as trash and unfair to the Watchtower Society and the JW.
5/29/07
Having been one of Jw's over 55 years and raised by an elder in the congregation, it was a joy to watch and listen to the narration regarding JW's personal lives. I have been in over 23 congregations thru the years,most people live in accord with God's word and follow the bible's teachings,some proved they were not living as a christian, that is sad. True some have behaved terribly just as they did in the days when the bible was written, this does not mean Jehovah is not with JW's. Some things are a test, how will we respond?
5/29/07
DS
Cleveland, Ohio
I saw the film.i always heard of sneering remarks about these people. why?thats the same situation jesus was in. he said that his followers would be persecuted and they would be no part of this world.what have jehovah's witnesses done as a whole to make people hate them? sure some individuals may not have the integrity as most of them and may set a bad example but these people have made advances for all of us without us knowing. this world is filled with disgusting things and we hate the people who as a whole choose not to accept it? thats crazy.
5/29/07
Mary Mullins
Lewisburg,Tn
I am so thankful for this program.I also am a Jehovah's Wittness and am proud to wittness about almighty God.I cried tears of joy through most of this program. I was able to see my dear brothers who have died on the screen ,such as Brother Russell and other I have never meet who alive now.I think a big misconception now is we do not see the importance of family and this is not true.I don't celebrate the holidays but I give gifts all the time.Some are brought with money ,but a lot of gifts that money can't buy such as devotion and time for those I Love including my neighbors I wittness to.Thank you again to the producers and to Independent Lens and to PBS for sharing it with others.
5/29/07
Loren
I was a Mormon for 30 years and resigned after coming out and now see that any faith needs to be viewed from many lenses and angles to get the real turths about its origins, dogmas, and its affects upon people in it and those who leave it. When the Mormon programs came on PBS a few weeks ago, it was GOOD that many views were offered by both apologists and critics... I feel it would have been better if the same thing was done with the JW documentary so more of the real truth could be learned by folks who dont have the resources to learn that for themselves. I am active on My Space and found an ex-JW gay group that had links to both the JW documentary and to other places telling the hidden truths about early doctrinal changes, family problems, and inner politics among Bible Students and JWs, which were very eye opening.... Personally I no longer subscribe to any overly-organized religion, because I feel they are all wrong together... I have studied many faiths including the JWs, and find some good points to live by, but I feel all we really need to make our world over into a heaven on earth is for everyone to live the GOLDEN RULE. This is taught by every major faith, but has not yet been lived globally. Its a much simpler answer than all the complicated religious shenanigans we see in every faith.
5/29/07
Mike_check
Gary,In
First of all, nice video, knowledge is key & Facts are undeniable. These bible truths that were brought out in this documentary was long over due. The identifying mark of a true christian is LOVE. So wether you agree with JW or not the basis of our teachings is LOVE. You cant show love if you are taking ones life in war combat. You cant show love if you are speaking hurtful things about your brother(friend). Yes God gave us free will, but he also gave us the choice to do his will. Yes Jesus blood payed for our sins but faith without works is dead!!!! so along with faith we need "GOOD WORKS". When one seperates himself from the world and truely becomes in union with the Father and his Son then the world will hate him because he doesnt walk as they walk, or they misinterpret ones uncomprimising faith with too many rules or no freedom. Just as God wants from us so does this world ruled by satan. God wants us all to live, Satan wants us to share his fate (death). All throughout the Bible Jehovah had a chosen people or group. From the old testament to the New.Isaiah 43:10. So Im happy the world got a chance to see 1st hand yet another chosen people. We have a documentary of some of our bible teachings, a website of our bible based teachings, yet and still there are still negative comments towards our faith! Well to all have a pleasant day.
5/29/07
CB
Montgomery Village, MD
How frustrating. Minutes into this film, it focused on JEWS. I was looking forward to film and enjoying the information. Then in minutes, it included NOT a JW who survived, but a Jew - enough of bringing us into every single conversation (at least in the media). The person wanted to convert fine - but that's NOT the norm, & so it's misleading, & irrelevant. I can't even watch a film about something that has nothing to do with me, a Jew, and it becomes in part about us. Furthermore, JW is in part about converting so why pick a converted Jew instead of a Christian?
5/29/07
Bob Schlichenmair
"Ah, but they don't give that freedom do they Joel? The quote above is from your website, but JW's do not allow people who once were in their religion (I was raised and baptized at age 14), to choose to leave. Sure I had a choice to not get baptized, but I was FOURTEEN, what did I know. When I did leave, because I am gay and they won't let me stay, I was shunned. You are gay, and the only difference between me and you is that you didn't get baptized at age 14. I can't choose to not be a JW without losing my family. That is not freedom, that is control and cultish behavior."
That's a pretty narrow minded look i'm afraid. The reason I say this is because it's the same in all religions. I was raised lutheran and I didn't know what baptism was when I was baptized as an infant. I didn't know what it was when I had affirmation of that baptism when I was 14. You can choose to be a witness without leaving your family...but if you continue to practice homosexuality, which is a sin according to the Bible, then you aren't showing repentance and you aren't showing good behavior according to witnesses. It would be similar if you committed any sin over and over after you chose to leave the witnesses. Taking this into consideration, your view is very narrow minded and attempts to draw narrow conclusions on the Witnesses when it shouldn't.
5/29/07
Anonymous Critic
In response to whoever wrote the message of 5/25/07 that begins "Personally, I don't agree with the JW's on various stands... Everyone in our religion has a choice whether or not to stay. You can be "shunned", if that's what you want to call it, but you have the choice of being repentant and coming back.Plus, if you were 'just FOURTEEN, what did you know', then why did you get baptized in the FIRST place? You gotta be SURE you want to do something BEFORE you do it! What's that saying? LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP.
5/29/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Joshua (5/24): Your situation is sad, but Joshua, JWs try hard to follow Scripture rather than one's heart. Jeremiah 17:9 says: "The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate." JWs Bible-trained consciences follow Jesus who said in prayer to his Father at Matt.6:39 "...yet, not as I will but as you will." The Scriptures teach at 1 Cor. 7:39 that a widow "is free to be married to whom she wants, ONLY IN THE LORD", and at 2 Cor.6:14 "Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers." This sister has a choice. Is she going to follow God's Word or her heart? And Joshua, are you going to encourage her to disobey God's instructions or encourage her to keep a clear conscience? Concerning college--It's best for our youth to be absorbed in the preaching work, but if one can handle both, it's up to each individual and parents to decide to go or not. All dedicated JWs MUST live up to God's moral standards. If one errs and is not repentent, we follow the Bible's instructions to "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." (Read 1 Cor. 5:9-13). If you disagree with this, you disagree with God. Many disfellowshiped ones return! God will not "guide you" into a course he disapproves of and has so stated. If we don't follow God's Word, we become like any other religion ignoring God's will in these and other mattters. My suggestion would be to study with JWs and see where "God will guide you.
5/29/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
I am a 4th generation Witness. I Pioneered for four years after High School, and did not attend college at that time because the �end� was too near. I have always been proud that Jehovah�s witnesses fought their battles in the courts over our constitutional freedoms. My uncle was a member of the Governing Body until his death in 2001. Several years ago I stopped attending meetings because I could no longer accept so many Witness doctrines, including their view that they alone are worthy to survive God�s judgment at Armageddon. Witnesses tell people to �question their religion� but once a Witness, you are not allowed to do this openly. Why does an organization convinced it has the �truth� suppress such questions about itself?
I was disappointed the film made no mention of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society�s membership with the United Nations as a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) for nearly ten years from 1992 until 2001. Given their vilification of the UN, why did members of the Governing Body sign an agreement to become an NGO and to promote the UN and its objectives in their publications? Why did they withdraw their membership within twenty four hours after it was first reported by a British news organization? The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society has never �come clean� about this blunder, nor do most Jehovah�s witnesses even know about it.
5/29/07
Roy Koser
Garden Grove, California
I�ve watched the PBS special�s on �The Mormons� and now "Knocking" concerning Witnesses. They both claim: One cannot know the "truth" without Smith or Russell. Witnesses:God gave Brother Russell to the church to be as a mouthpiece for him; and those who claim to have learned the truth apart from Brother Russell and his writings have been manifested by the Lord as deceivers, ready to lead the flock of God in their way. Since Brother Russell�s death the evidence of God�s favor upon the Society, which was organized by Brother Russell for the furtherance of the Lord�s work, has been manifested as clearly as it was previously upon him. . . . (The Watchtower, Sept. 15, 1922, p.279)" Mormons: God made Aaron to be mouthpiece for the children of Israel, and He will make me be god to you in his stead, and the Elders to be mouth for me; and if you don�t like it, you must lump it. (History of the Church, Joseph Smith, Vol. 6:319-20)
Every intelligent person under the heavens that does not, when informed, acknowledge that Joseph Smith Jr. is a Prophet of God, is in darkness, and is opposed to us and to Jesus and his kingdom on the earth. (Journal of Discourses, 8:223, Brigham Young)" After studying with both groups, I find both as modern day examples of the term Jesus used- �false prophets who come as wolves in sheep�s clothing.
5/29/07
D.M.
Michigan
JW are NOT a cult. We try to follow what the BIBLE says as close as possible as a imperfect human can. We try to to what is pleasing to Jehovah. A CULT follows MAN. We don't follow any man. Those who know of children being molested should go to the police & report what has happened & the elders in the congregation who are aware of these instances do disfellowship these persons. A TRUE JW who loves Jehovah & Jesus Christ will ALWAYS UPHOLD Jehovah's name. Anyone else who writes negative untruths on this reply board is an APOSTATE!! You ALL know who you are & you know what your final judgement will be. Dont't be bitter about your LOT in LIFE & speak abusively of the Witnesses tell the whole story & not just half of it. I have been baptized since 1990 & RIGHT is RIGHT & WRONG is WRONG the BILBLE doesn't LIE. You will either do what the BIBLE says & serve Jehovah or you may stumble here & there & face the consequences & come back to serving Jehovah. This religion doesn't break up families, either they will like it or not just like any other religion. Jehovah God is a loving god & he only will put upon you what you can handle, nothing more!! So all of you who have something NEGATIVE to say about JW keep it to yourself!
5/29/07
Well Im one of jehovahs witnesses and i really enjoyed the doc. and as a younger person i found inspiring. i hope the people who do watch this and are not one of Jehovahs witnesses really get to understand who we are. I hope with every negative view theres a postive if that makes any sense. Also one of the things that made the doc. was that the person who made it was a former witnesses and that he gave the facts and didnt put a bias view in it. So thank you for making it I LOVED IT!!! :)
5/29/07
I have never heard of cults going door to door - don't they exclude themselves from society....I don't think they fit the definition of a cult and I can't believe how many angry people are. I thought the film was fair, very reasonable. I am familiar with the teachings and have friends that are witnesses. seems like alot of angry people -- but I hear alot of people crying they were kicked out but it is their choice.... you made the decision not to follow the rules. That seems fair to me.
5/29/07
Jonathan
Fullerton, California
This film was the most accurate depiction of a Jehovah's Witness's life i have ever seen done outside our organization. Usually we are discribed by a disgruntled apostate(disfellowshipped witness)who just wants to lash out at our organization's because they were unable to live up to God's standards.I think it's refreshing to be part of a religion who requires it's aherants to follow Bible principles and remove any who unrepentantly refuse to do so. Like it or not, God does not accept our worship if we are not living by his standards! Great Job!
5/29/07
Marvin
California
This documentary is well done, it gives BOTH SIDES regarding this religion both negative and positive, its well balanced. About those who post lies: Question why they were "shunned" or "disfellowshipped" and you will see what gives fuel to their lies. Everybody/every religion has its black sheep, even jehovah's witnesses, they do their best to identify that person/s and exclude them from the congregation, the bible teaches forgiveness so please dont judge them just because they want to forgive. If you disagree with a religion's belief/ways of life(rules) then dont apply to it!! Is it so hard?
5/29/07
John Solomon
Chicago
This little film really kicked up some dust with the result that we get to further see Bible prophecy in fulfillment. Unrepentant people who are put out of Jehovahs organization weep and gnash their teeth at those who remain faithful. Matt.22:13. Even though the Bible says clearly that the road to life is cramped and narrow and that few would find it, those sour individuals have no positive message of good news and refuse to present scriptures to substantiate their claims. They demand that we take their word for everything.
Its important not to converse with apostates even though it might seem easy to debate with them because they learned the truth from Gods word and submitted to baptism then turned against the truth. People can only understand the Bible with the aid of holy spirit and if understanding leaves one it is not in our capacity to restore it to them. Its presumptuous to approach these people and try to give them something that Jehovah has withheld. That�s how people circum to apostate reasoning even when it is extremely faulted. Disobedient persons oppose Gods spirit by insisting on witnessing to undeserving ones and wind up loosing holy spirit for themselves.
5/29/07
I think its a beautiful thing that many who want nothing to do with JEHOVAH GOD knows his name because he wants everybody to know his name .Many people say it before we can ,when we go door to door they ask "are you one of Jehovahs Witnesses?" We reply "yes" they slam the door which reflects negatively on their character.I know for me personally when i get a door slammed in my face i dont cry it doesnt hurt my feelings.Im not the one getting rejected Jehovah is the one they reject.People know why we a are at their door.People CLAIM to read their bible and they CLAIM to follow it BUT if u REALLY do those things dont u think you would be doing the same thing that the bible commands us to do ? Someone made the comment that JW is a man made religion and a person only made it up to make money.Whoever said that doesnt know anything about JW's and our MONATARY DONATIONS.We dont pass collection plates nor do we ask people for money.There are boxes in the Kingdomhalls for donations and if you want to give you may.NO ONE IS PRESSURED OR FORCED.Our World wide work is supported through our donations.We knock on doors to talk to people about the bible.Not to collect money from people and tell you we are doing one thing with the money and do another!If you dont believe that gods name is JEHOVAH then how about you look it up in the dictionary and there it will tell u JEHOVAH is GOD'S NAME!!
5/29/07
Brooklyn, NY
The Jehovahs Witnesses in this documentary came across as very nice. I think everyone should have the right to believe whatever they want and this right should be protected. But it should have been pointed out that the Witnesses are neither "fundamentalists" or "Christian." Without foundation in biblical scholarship or orthodox theology, their founders "reinterpreted" the Bible, claimed to have special access to "the truth" and moved far away from what most Christians believe. The Witnesses believe they are unique and the only "true" religion. But many of their beliefs are not original and have been rejected before in church history. Previous groups denied key Christian doctrines such as the Trinity and the divinity of Christ (google Arianism and Peligianism). Others have proclaimed the primacy of God the Father who the Witnesses identify as "Jehovah" ("Yahweh," "Adonai"). The church identified these beliefs as heresies and moved on. But the Witnesses have added an apocalyptic "end of the world" twist, a common theme around the turn of the century. It should be noted that sincere, religious people at the beginning of the first millenium also believed that they were living in the final days. Some even repeatedly predicted (like the Witnesses) the exact date that Jesus would return. Perhaps they even went door to door, trying to convince everybody else that they had this special "truth."
5/29/07
AMG
AT NO TIME DID THE GOVERNING BODY EVER SAY THAT THE END WAS COMING BUT RATHER THAT A PARTICULAR EVENT IN HUMAN HISTORY WAS COMING TO A CLOSE DURING THAT TIME PERIOD IF MEMORY SERVES ME CORRECTLY IT WAS 6,000 YEAR OF MANS CREATION,NOT THE END OF THE WORLD UNFORTUNETLY SOME IN THE ORGINIZATION MISUNDERSTOOD THE MEANING OF THE EVENT. AS THE PROGRAM SHOWED JW'S HAVE BEEN AT THE FORE FRONT IN THE BATTLE FOR CIVIL LIBERTIES INCLUDING THE SHARING OF INFORMATION WHICH LEADS US TO YOUR NEXT CLIAM OF SO CALLED HYPOCROSY IT IS TRUE THAT THE UN IS SEEN AS THE BEAST IN REVEALTIONS AND HISTORY HAS SHOWN THIS TO BE TRUE HAVING SAID THAT BECUASE THE DECIMATION OF INFORMATION IS VITAL TO ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE THE USE OF INFO ON UN STUDIRS,REPORTS,ETC IS NO MORE HYPOCRITICAL THAN SOMEONE OF A DIFFERENT FAITH CITING VERSES FROM ANOTHER TEXT TO MAKE A POINT SO LONG AS THE POINT IS VALID. THE SOCIETY DID NOT BACK TRACK BUT RATHER CLARIFIED THAT THEY DID NOT WISH TO CAUSE ANY CONFUSION IN REGARDS TO BEING ON SAID LIST IT WAS PURELY FOR HAVING ACCESS TO INFORMATION JUST LIKE ANY OTHER JOURNALSTIC ENTITY HAS A RIGHT TO SAID INFO EVEN IF THEY DO NOT AGREE WITH THE PRECEPT OF SAID ORG PLEASE IF YOUR GOING EXPRESS OPINIONS AS FACT GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT FIRST THERE IS ENOUGH MISINFORMATION IN THIS WORLD WE DO NOT NEED MORE
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5/29/07
Benita J Porter
It was the best portrayal of Jehovah's Witnesses, who they really are and what they believe and practice that I have seen, to date, on television.You are to be congratulated! And if I could give an award for excellence in reporting, it would be to Independent Lens and the producer(s) of the film for the objective and factual portrayal of a, too often, wrongly maligned people. Thank you!
5/29/07
Duncan Buckland
Devon, England
We have not seen Knocking on television, as we live in the U.K., but having bought a copy on DVD and watched it, we would like to say thankyou to PBS for showing this film in your country, and only hope that it will be seen in Europe so Again, THANK YOU.
5/29/07
I just watched KNOCKING and was enlightened by the exact facts of the religion of Jehovahs witnesses. thank you I hope to watch it again at a more convient time, perhaps an evening hour.
5/29/07
Karen
Baltimore, Maryland
I just wanted to say that after viewing "Knocking", I felt so proud to be the sister of the two practicing families. I am African American and we truly are brothers and sisters, No matter what race, culture, heritage, or whereever in the world we may travel,we truly are brothers and sisters. We love each other not just because we are witnessses, but also because we love Jehovah. That love is extended to our neighbors, the very reason we come "Knocking". Thank you for the fine job you did in revealing that we are just ordinary people with strong convictions that we strive hard to practice daily. We are holding on as the rest of the world, but our hope is in Jehovah. Thanks again........I would love to know how my brother who had the liver transplant is doing. His experience really touched my heart. I give you permission to give him and his wife my email address. Thanks again and (I know you're familiar with this saying - have a good day! (smile)
5/29/07
This documentary well-captured the most important issues surrounding Jehovah's Witnesses. I am a JW and I found it interesting to step back and take a look at this perspective being given to my religion. I found it accurate and touching. The story of the Holocaust survivor was especially important to me. However, it is disheartening to read some of the slanderous comments posted here. It seems they take delight in taking focus away from the film and towards perpetuating their own agenda. Anyways, thank you to the filmmakers for their work.
5/29/07
John
Canada
To: Joel & Tom An excellent film. Well done. I bought the DVD. It is a very balanced perspective. Those that say otherwise are just bitter opposers, it really is that simple. Don't listen to them guys.Given your background I admire that you did this, some would have taken the road of bitter resentment like some of the posts here, you lifted yourself above all that, and produced something of a supportive nature, even though you decided that the truth wasn't for you. I think the biggest critics of you, deep down are actually jealous, that you can do this, being positive verses being ultra negative about the situation.And they can't dispute the amazing number of court cases the JW have won in the supreme court that advances ALL peoples freedom. Good Job guys and THANK YOU.
5/29/07
TRACY LAMBERT
BRISTOL,PA
I just wanted to say that this documentary was fabulous. I think for those who watched it, they hopefully got a glimpse of what our ministry is about and why it is apart of our lives. You documented the differences and the very true essence of our families and how the differences effect our them in a way that was understandable. I always watch programs on PBS and have purchased documentaries. I look forward to other documentaries in the future.
5/29/07
K. A.
Va
I really enjoyed the documentary KNOCKING. I felt that it was quite balanced because it gave not only the view of the witness families (which I can relate to) but also of the unbelieving family members. I hope it serves as a help to those who may be afraid to ask JW's questions because of misinformation. To those who were witnesses and have been hurt, I feel so badly for you. Unfortunately, humans are still imperfect and that includes JW's. Any injustices or overly judgemental attitudes that damaged you are not OK to Jehovah and he will handle matters in his own way and time. These things were not his fault. We do not serve people, we serve Jehovah.
5/29/07
Lynn
Connecticut
I am a JW. During my 35 years as one, I was disfellowshipped for 5 years, for unrepentant fornication. I am now a JW again in good standing, once I repented. What one has to realize is that when someone is "shunned" it is not because they are going against a man or an organization but because they are going against God. They are saying no to Jehovah, not man. Everyone has a right to choose what they will do but they also have to accept the consequences of their actions. Jehovah is not partial. He sets the same standard for everyone. Just as in the laws of the land, one can break the laws but they will suffer the consequences. Jehovah is the Supreme Perfect Lawgiver. We have no reason to question His authority. Living under His laws we have the freedom of love, kindness and goodness, how can that be wrong?? Joel, you did an excellent job with your film. It brings to mind the scripture Matthew 25:37-40. I hope you will soon come to an accurate knowledge of Jehovah's tender mercies and rejoin the fold.
5/29/07
AJ
Abortion, pedophilia, drug issues, infidelity, torn families...these are all regular occurences within the JW organization that are not explored or admitted to. What they did not show is that JWs make notes about you when they come to your home and you say "yes" or "no"... my Mom has pegged people as demons, as lonely, as poor --- all on her little note sheet where she records her hours, hours, hours, and hours of time - KNOCKING! in my experience...JWs are very judgmental and will not debate anyone who has a chance of knocking down their views. people need to wake up and understand that this religion was started by a man who believed in the occult and mysticism and based his beliefs on it. later leaders were just as bad as a lot of the same preachers they denegrate...look up Beth-Sarim. They use fear under the guise of "love" and try to make members believe that they will never succeed in life if they leave...so untrue. please don't get me started on their constant excuses for getting the date for the end of the world wrong, again, and again, and again, despite the fact that the bible says not even Jesus knows the time or the place.
5/29/07
April
VA
The documentary did not show a lot that goes on within this organization and also a lot about its history and leaders was left out. It was almost like JWs made the documentary...ask anyone who has had the JW experience and decided to leave.
5/29/07
Pavel Sebek
St. Louis
Thank you for showing this film. I found it very informative and ballanced. What was very interesting was the fact that Witnesses were persecuted both in nazi Germany as well as in the US at the same time, and later on in all the communist countries.Can you imagine this country if all the professing Christians (85% of the population claim to be Christian)followed the simple commandment of Jesus: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matt 7:12
5/29/07
SL
Lake City, Fl
I see many JW's here are touting this film as a balanced view of the JW life style/experience. However, the JW shunning practice that has devastated thousands of families and destroy untold lives, is simply glossed over. The filmmaker touts all the JW court wins, but non of its losses. The filmmaker goes on to show a JW family taking (unnecessary) medical risks, yet still beating the odds by refusing blood while having a liver operation(s). But nothing is really said (or discussed) about the countless men, women and even minor children who have died refusing blood throughout the history of the Watchtower Society. Nothing is mentioned about the child abuse controversy the JW�s and the Watchtower Society are under so much fire about these days. The several false end-of-the-world prophecies made by the Watchtower Society from its conception are simply mentioned in passing, as no big deal. Though JW�s have made serious life decisions due to the Watchtower Society�s continual false predictions (sold their houses, refused college for children, etc.) It makes no mention of those JW�s who have died in the past refusing organ transplants when it was the �blood� issue of that day. But now organ transplants are acceptable. The filmmaker allows a few moments of opposing comments by a concerned (non-JW) mother/grandmother about her JW family, and then spends the rest of the filmed time practically as an info-mercial or ad for the Watchtower Society. I don't see this as a balance "documentary" at all. I certainly do see this as a biased and pro JW film. No wonder the JW�s approve of it. If it were a balanced representation of the JW life style and experience, JW�s would be defaming the filmmaker and discrediting the film as trash and unfair to the Watchtower Society and the JW.
5/29/07
Having been one of Jw's over 55 years and raised by an elder in the congregation, it was a joy to watch and listen to the narration regarding JW's personal lives. I have been in over 23 congregations thru the years,most people live in accord with God's word and follow the bible's teachings,some proved they were not living as a christian, that is sad. True some have behaved terribly just as they did in the days when the bible was written, this does not mean Jehovah is not with JW's. Some things are a test, how will we respond?
5/29/07
DS
Cleveland, Ohio
I saw the film.i always heard of sneering remarks about these people. why?thats the same situation jesus was in. he said that his followers would be persecuted and they would be no part of this world.what have jehovah's witnesses done as a whole to make people hate them? sure some individuals may not have the integrity as most of them and may set a bad example but these people have made advances for all of us without us knowing. this world is filled with disgusting things and we hate the people who as a whole choose not to accept it? thats crazy.
5/29/07
Mary Mullins
Lewisburg,Tn
I am so thankful for this program.I also am a Jehovah's Wittness and am proud to wittness about almighty God.I cried tears of joy through most of this program. I was able to see my dear brothers who have died on the screen ,such as Brother Russell and other I have never meet who alive now.I think a big misconception now is we do not see the importance of family and this is not true.I don't celebrate the holidays but I give gifts all the time.Some are brought with money ,but a lot of gifts that money can't buy such as devotion and time for those I Love including my neighbors I wittness to.Thank you again to the producers and to Independent Lens and to PBS for sharing it with others.
5/29/07
Loren
I was a Mormon for 30 years and resigned after coming out and now see that any faith needs to be viewed from many lenses and angles to get the real turths about its origins, dogmas, and its affects upon people in it and those who leave it. When the Mormon programs came on PBS a few weeks ago, it was GOOD that many views were offered by both apologists and critics... I feel it would have been better if the same thing was done with the JW documentary so more of the real truth could be learned by folks who dont have the resources to learn that for themselves. I am active on My Space and found an ex-JW gay group that had links to both the JW documentary and to other places telling the hidden truths about early doctrinal changes, family problems, and inner politics among Bible Students and JWs, which were very eye opening.... Personally I no longer subscribe to any overly-organized religion, because I feel they are all wrong together... I have studied many faiths including the JWs, and find some good points to live by, but I feel all we really need to make our world over into a heaven on earth is for everyone to live the GOLDEN RULE. This is taught by every major faith, but has not yet been lived globally. Its a much simpler answer than all the complicated religious shenanigans we see in every faith.
5/29/07
Mike_check
Gary,In
First of all, nice video, knowledge is key & Facts are undeniable. These bible truths that were brought out in this documentary was long over due. The identifying mark of a true christian is LOVE. So wether you agree with JW or not the basis of our teachings is LOVE. You cant show love if you are taking ones life in war combat. You cant show love if you are speaking hurtful things about your brother(friend). Yes God gave us free will, but he also gave us the choice to do his will. Yes Jesus blood payed for our sins but faith without works is dead!!!! so along with faith we need "GOOD WORKS". When one seperates himself from the world and truely becomes in union with the Father and his Son then the world will hate him because he doesnt walk as they walk, or they misinterpret ones uncomprimising faith with too many rules or no freedom. Just as God wants from us so does this world ruled by satan. God wants us all to live, Satan wants us to share his fate (death). All throughout the Bible Jehovah had a chosen people or group. From the old testament to the New.Isaiah 43:10. So Im happy the world got a chance to see 1st hand yet another chosen people. We have a documentary of some of our bible teachings, a website of our bible based teachings, yet and still there are still negative comments towards our faith! Well to all have a pleasant day.
5/29/07
CB
Montgomery Village, MD
How frustrating. Minutes into this film, it focused on JEWS. I was looking forward to film and enjoying the information. Then in minutes, it included NOT a JW who survived, but a Jew - enough of bringing us into every single conversation (at least in the media). The person wanted to convert fine - but that's NOT the norm, & so it's misleading, & irrelevant. I can't even watch a film about something that has nothing to do with me, a Jew, and it becomes in part about us. Furthermore, JW is in part about converting so why pick a converted Jew instead of a Christian?
5/29/07
Bob Schlichenmair
"Ah, but they don't give that freedom do they Joel? The quote above is from your website, but JW's do not allow people who once were in their religion (I was raised and baptized at age 14), to choose to leave. Sure I had a choice to not get baptized, but I was FOURTEEN, what did I know. When I did leave, because I am gay and they won't let me stay, I was shunned. You are gay, and the only difference between me and you is that you didn't get baptized at age 14. I can't choose to not be a JW without losing my family. That is not freedom, that is control and cultish behavior."
That's a pretty narrow minded look i'm afraid. The reason I say this is because it's the same in all religions. I was raised lutheran and I didn't know what baptism was when I was baptized as an infant. I didn't know what it was when I had affirmation of that baptism when I was 14. You can choose to be a witness without leaving your family...but if you continue to practice homosexuality, which is a sin according to the Bible, then you aren't showing repentance and you aren't showing good behavior according to witnesses. It would be similar if you committed any sin over and over after you chose to leave the witnesses. Taking this into consideration, your view is very narrow minded and attempts to draw narrow conclusions on the Witnesses when it shouldn't.
5/29/07
Anonymous Critic
In response to whoever wrote the message of 5/25/07 that begins "Personally, I don't agree with the JW's on various stands... Everyone in our religion has a choice whether or not to stay. You can be "shunned", if that's what you want to call it, but you have the choice of being repentant and coming back.Plus, if you were 'just FOURTEEN, what did you know', then why did you get baptized in the FIRST place? You gotta be SURE you want to do something BEFORE you do it! What's that saying? LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP.
5/29/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Joshua (5/24): Your situation is sad, but Joshua, JWs try hard to follow Scripture rather than one's heart. Jeremiah 17:9 says: "The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate." JWs Bible-trained consciences follow Jesus who said in prayer to his Father at Matt.6:39 "...yet, not as I will but as you will." The Scriptures teach at 1 Cor. 7:39 that a widow "is free to be married to whom she wants, ONLY IN THE LORD", and at 2 Cor.6:14 "Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers." This sister has a choice. Is she going to follow God's Word or her heart? And Joshua, are you going to encourage her to disobey God's instructions or encourage her to keep a clear conscience? Concerning college--It's best for our youth to be absorbed in the preaching work, but if one can handle both, it's up to each individual and parents to decide to go or not. All dedicated JWs MUST live up to God's moral standards. If one errs and is not repentent, we follow the Bible's instructions to "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." (Read 1 Cor. 5:9-13). If you disagree with this, you disagree with God. Many disfellowshiped ones return! God will not "guide you" into a course he disapproves of and has so stated. If we don't follow God's Word, we become like any other religion ignoring God's will in these and other mattters. My suggestion would be to study with JWs and see where "God will guide you.
5/29/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
I am a 4th generation Witness. I Pioneered for four years after High School, and did not attend college at that time because the �end� was too near. I have always been proud that Jehovah�s witnesses fought their battles in the courts over our constitutional freedoms. My uncle was a member of the Governing Body until his death in 2001. Several years ago I stopped attending meetings because I could no longer accept so many Witness doctrines, including their view that they alone are worthy to survive God�s judgment at Armageddon. Witnesses tell people to �question their religion� but once a Witness, you are not allowed to do this openly. Why does an organization convinced it has the �truth� suppress such questions about itself?
I was disappointed the film made no mention of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society�s membership with the United Nations as a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) for nearly ten years from 1992 until 2001. Given their vilification of the UN, why did members of the Governing Body sign an agreement to become an NGO and to promote the UN and its objectives in their publications? Why did they withdraw their membership within twenty four hours after it was first reported by a British news organization? The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society has never �come clean� about this blunder, nor do most Jehovah�s witnesses even know about it.
5/29/07
Roy Koser
Garden Grove, California
I�ve watched the PBS special�s on �The Mormons� and now "Knocking" concerning Witnesses. They both claim: One cannot know the "truth" without Smith or Russell. Witnesses:God gave Brother Russell to the church to be as a mouthpiece for him; and those who claim to have learned the truth apart from Brother Russell and his writings have been manifested by the Lord as deceivers, ready to lead the flock of God in their way. Since Brother Russell�s death the evidence of God�s favor upon the Society, which was organized by Brother Russell for the furtherance of the Lord�s work, has been manifested as clearly as it was previously upon him. . . . (The Watchtower, Sept. 15, 1922, p.279)" Mormons: God made Aaron to be mouthpiece for the children of Israel, and He will make me be god to you in his stead, and the Elders to be mouth for me; and if you don�t like it, you must lump it. (History of the Church, Joseph Smith, Vol. 6:319-20)
Every intelligent person under the heavens that does not, when informed, acknowledge that Joseph Smith Jr. is a Prophet of God, is in darkness, and is opposed to us and to Jesus and his kingdom on the earth. (Journal of Discourses, 8:223, Brigham Young)" After studying with both groups, I find both as modern day examples of the term Jesus used- �false prophets who come as wolves in sheep�s clothing.
5/29/07
D.M.
Michigan
JW are NOT a cult. We try to follow what the BIBLE says as close as possible as a imperfect human can. We try to to what is pleasing to Jehovah. A CULT follows MAN. We don't follow any man. Those who know of children being molested should go to the police & report what has happened & the elders in the congregation who are aware of these instances do disfellowship these persons. A TRUE JW who loves Jehovah & Jesus Christ will ALWAYS UPHOLD Jehovah's name. Anyone else who writes negative untruths on this reply board is an APOSTATE!! You ALL know who you are & you know what your final judgement will be. Dont't be bitter about your LOT in LIFE & speak abusively of the Witnesses tell the whole story & not just half of it. I have been baptized since 1990 & RIGHT is RIGHT & WRONG is WRONG the BILBLE doesn't LIE. You will either do what the BIBLE says & serve Jehovah or you may stumble here & there & face the consequences & come back to serving Jehovah. This religion doesn't break up families, either they will like it or not just like any other religion. Jehovah God is a loving god & he only will put upon you what you can handle, nothing more!! So all of you who have something NEGATIVE to say about JW keep it to yourself!
5/29/07
Well Im one of jehovahs witnesses and i really enjoyed the doc. and as a younger person i found inspiring. i hope the people who do watch this and are not one of Jehovahs witnesses really get to understand who we are. I hope with every negative view theres a postive if that makes any sense. Also one of the things that made the doc. was that the person who made it was a former witnesses and that he gave the facts and didnt put a bias view in it. So thank you for making it I LOVED IT!!! :)
5/29/07
I have never heard of cults going door to door - don't they exclude themselves from society....I don't think they fit the definition of a cult and I can't believe how many angry people are. I thought the film was fair, very reasonable. I am familiar with the teachings and have friends that are witnesses. seems like alot of angry people -- but I hear alot of people crying they were kicked out but it is their choice.... you made the decision not to follow the rules. That seems fair to me.
5/29/07
Jonathan
Fullerton, California
This film was the most accurate depiction of a Jehovah's Witness's life i have ever seen done outside our organization. Usually we are discribed by a disgruntled apostate(disfellowshipped witness)who just wants to lash out at our organization's because they were unable to live up to God's standards.I think it's refreshing to be part of a religion who requires it's aherants to follow Bible principles and remove any who unrepentantly refuse to do so. Like it or not, God does not accept our worship if we are not living by his standards! Great Job!
5/29/07
Marvin
California
This documentary is well done, it gives BOTH SIDES regarding this religion both negative and positive, its well balanced. About those who post lies: Question why they were "shunned" or "disfellowshipped" and you will see what gives fuel to their lies. Everybody/every religion has its black sheep, even jehovah's witnesses, they do their best to identify that person/s and exclude them from the congregation, the bible teaches forgiveness so please dont judge them just because they want to forgive. If you disagree with a religion's belief/ways of life(rules) then dont apply to it!! Is it so hard?
5/29/07
John Solomon
Chicago
This little film really kicked up some dust with the result that we get to further see Bible prophecy in fulfillment. Unrepentant people who are put out of Jehovahs organization weep and gnash their teeth at those who remain faithful. Matt.22:13. Even though the Bible says clearly that the road to life is cramped and narrow and that few would find it, those sour individuals have no positive message of good news and refuse to present scriptures to substantiate their claims. They demand that we take their word for everything.
Its important not to converse with apostates even though it might seem easy to debate with them because they learned the truth from Gods word and submitted to baptism then turned against the truth. People can only understand the Bible with the aid of holy spirit and if understanding leaves one it is not in our capacity to restore it to them. Its presumptuous to approach these people and try to give them something that Jehovah has withheld. That�s how people circum to apostate reasoning even when it is extremely faulted. Disobedient persons oppose Gods spirit by insisting on witnessing to undeserving ones and wind up loosing holy spirit for themselves.
5/29/07
I think its a beautiful thing that many who want nothing to do with JEHOVAH GOD knows his name because he wants everybody to know his name .Many people say it before we can ,when we go door to door they ask "are you one of Jehovahs Witnesses?" We reply "yes" they slam the door which reflects negatively on their character.I know for me personally when i get a door slammed in my face i dont cry it doesnt hurt my feelings.Im not the one getting rejected Jehovah is the one they reject.People know why we a are at their door.People CLAIM to read their bible and they CLAIM to follow it BUT if u REALLY do those things dont u think you would be doing the same thing that the bible commands us to do ? Someone made the comment that JW is a man made religion and a person only made it up to make money.Whoever said that doesnt know anything about JW's and our MONATARY DONATIONS.We dont pass collection plates nor do we ask people for money.There are boxes in the Kingdomhalls for donations and if you want to give you may.NO ONE IS PRESSURED OR FORCED.Our World wide work is supported through our donations.We knock on doors to talk to people about the bible.Not to collect money from people and tell you we are doing one thing with the money and do another!If you dont believe that gods name is JEHOVAH then how about you look it up in the dictionary and there it will tell u JEHOVAH is GOD'S NAME!!
5/29/07
Brooklyn, NY
The Jehovahs Witnesses in this documentary came across as very nice. I think everyone should have the right to believe whatever they want and this right should be protected. But it should have been pointed out that the Witnesses are neither "fundamentalists" or "Christian." Without foundation in biblical scholarship or orthodox theology, their founders "reinterpreted" the Bible, claimed to have special access to "the truth" and moved far away from what most Christians believe. The Witnesses believe they are unique and the only "true" religion. But many of their beliefs are not original and have been rejected before in church history. Previous groups denied key Christian doctrines such as the Trinity and the divinity of Christ (google Arianism and Peligianism). Others have proclaimed the primacy of God the Father who the Witnesses identify as "Jehovah" ("Yahweh," "Adonai"). The church identified these beliefs as heresies and moved on. But the Witnesses have added an apocalyptic "end of the world" twist, a common theme around the turn of the century. It should be noted that sincere, religious people at the beginning of the first millenium also believed that they were living in the final days. Some even repeatedly predicted (like the Witnesses) the exact date that Jesus would return. Perhaps they even went door to door, trying to convince everybody else that they had this special "truth."
5/29/07
AMG
AT NO TIME DID THE GOVERNING BODY EVER SAY THAT THE END WAS COMING BUT RATHER THAT A PARTICULAR EVENT IN HUMAN HISTORY WAS COMING TO A CLOSE DURING THAT TIME PERIOD IF MEMORY SERVES ME CORRECTLY IT WAS 6,000 YEAR OF MANS CREATION,NOT THE END OF THE WORLD UNFORTUNETLY SOME IN THE ORGINIZATION MISUNDERSTOOD THE MEANING OF THE EVENT. AS THE PROGRAM SHOWED JW'S HAVE BEEN AT THE FORE FRONT IN THE BATTLE FOR CIVIL LIBERTIES INCLUDING THE SHARING OF INFORMATION WHICH LEADS US TO YOUR NEXT CLIAM OF SO CALLED HYPOCROSY IT IS TRUE THAT THE UN IS SEEN AS THE BEAST IN REVEALTIONS AND HISTORY HAS SHOWN THIS TO BE TRUE HAVING SAID THAT BECUASE THE DECIMATION OF INFORMATION IS VITAL TO ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE THE USE OF INFO ON UN STUDIRS,REPORTS,ETC IS NO MORE HYPOCRITICAL THAN SOMEONE OF A DIFFERENT FAITH CITING VERSES FROM ANOTHER TEXT TO MAKE A POINT SO LONG AS THE POINT IS VALID. THE SOCIETY DID NOT BACK TRACK BUT RATHER CLARIFIED THAT THEY DID NOT WISH TO CAUSE ANY CONFUSION IN REGARDS TO BEING ON SAID LIST IT WAS PURELY FOR HAVING ACCESS TO INFORMATION JUST LIKE ANY OTHER JOURNALSTIC ENTITY HAS A RIGHT TO SAID INFO EVEN IF THEY DO NOT AGREE WITH THE PRECEPT OF SAID ORG PLEASE IF YOUR GOING EXPRESS OPINIONS AS FACT GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT FIRST THERE IS ENOUGH MISINFORMATION IN THIS WORLD WE DO NOT NEED MORE
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6/1/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
Looks like there is another Moshe Smith who unlike me, thinks the WT Society is a great piece of work. He has it backwards about former JW's being hateful. They are just being honest about their experiences and feelings. This is unlike JW's who pretend to be happy, but inside are confused about WT changes of dogma and scared to even consider the remote possibility that they have made a mistake in giving their entire life over to a group of elderly WT men in NYC. Every time a JW preaches door to door they are required to tell lies. Namely, that in 1919 Jesus picked the WT society to be one true religion on earth. They believe that everyone who does not accept the authority of the WT Society will be killed at Armageddon. Three, maybe four generations of JW's have already failed to see this happen and generation number five will die waiting , too.
6/1/07
I know it was great to show how Jehovahs Witnesses have takin the ground work of the US Supreme Courts and showed alot what they have accomplished for all of our adminment rights. JW's have done alot not only for the U.S. but also for the whole world, there has been no other religion to do this. God just does'nt bless one nation, he blesses the whole world
6/1/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
COLIN (Washington D.C.) There's no easy answer to your situation--dating a JW. Please check my comment to Joshua on 5/29/07. The same would apply in your case.
To DAVID SWINGLE and others who claim to being "shunned" for no reason other than you have left JWs. If you have been disfellowshiped or have formally disassociated yourself, yes, you would be shunned. But if you simply left the faith, having done nothing scripturally wrong, there is no reason why you should be shunned by your family unless their conscience dictates they do so. In fact, when we hear of someone who hasn't been associated for sometime, or perhaps even many years, we often call on them and see if we can help them return. We are extremely happy to have them back. My own brother left the faith many years ago, but we don't shun him. He's not apostate, he just didn't want our life-style anymore. That's his choice. As long as one does not speak false doctrine to others, as an apostate, there is no reason to shun. Being an apostate is different. 1 John 9 says: "If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, never receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him." JWs are simply trying to follow the teachings of the Bible as best we can. If you disagree with that, then you are disagreeing with Jehovah, not JWs.
6/1/07
J
Houston, Texas
I just wanted to thank PBS for showing this documentry. What I liked is that this showed that Jehovah's Witnesses are real people with problems and feelings like every one else.
I also liked the fact that many who never talked with Witnesses for whatever reason, may have been able to see this documentry. As such they had an oppurtunity to learn more, or were able to see some views they may have had were erronous.
6/1/07
Thank you, the documentary was very interesting. The bottom point is that there will always be two sides of the story. Lets remember the documentary was not made to convert people. Its a documentary. Everyone has the freedom to choose if they want to become a JW or not... therefore... if you family member is one... that is there choice. If they are not... that is there choice. Part of having the freedom in this country is to think and believe whatever you like... weather you neighbor likes it or not.
5/31/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
Joel Engardio's intention for making this film, in part, was to open a dialogue between people from different cultures, to promote understanding and tolerance of ideas. What a great and noble motive! It is only when we are willing to listen to each other that we can begin to understand and tolerate different ideas, different world views and different ways of life. Unfortunately, Jehovah's witnesses do not tolerate the free exchange of ideas from anyone within their own ranks, no matter how respectful, sincere, or well meaning. If someone inside poses questions about doctrines, if a person begins to research other explanations of Biblical texts, or consider any alternate views of human history, or make any progress towards exploring these things, they are quickly censured for thinking outside the box; the rank and file are instructed to not even say a greeting to such ones, to disfellowship them. This is a hard realization for children of Witness parents who were baptized at an age when they were unable to reason about such things, and are then kicked out, sometimes into the streets, for daring to question.
Such fear of ideas elicits an irony that cannot be overlooked--they have struggled by legal means, imprisonment, even demonstrated a willingness to die in pursuing the freedom to speak--then they rabidly oppose those who consider another viewpoint from within their own ranks. Jehovah's witnesses want to be heard, but they do not want to listen.
5/31/07
Thanks so much for this eye opener of a film. I do appreciate the opportunity to be enlightened on the Jehovah's Witnesses. Obviously they have contributed much to society un be knowns to many of us. I really think that films like these will go a long way to understanding others we have heard negative things about. HANKS AGAIN
5/31/07
Chicago, IL
I am engaged to an ew-JW & I find the "religion" to be extrememly hypocritical. His family no longer associated with him & refers to him as an apostate - just because he no longer wants to be a part of the JW "religion". If you are a Christian - shouldn't you accept all people? This is not a religion, this a cult. Also, they knock on your door imposing their thoughts on you but refuse to listen to anything that a "worldly" person says. It's hard to believe that so many people are involved in such a limited religion. They do not encourage education past high school & women are treated as secondary.
5/31/07
Chicago, IL
For all you who are likening disfellowshipping/shunning to rules of other organizations. Yes, you could get fired for breaking an employer�s rules, And yes, weight watchers would not want you in their group if you insisted on promoting/living a fat-inducing lifestyle. The difference with JW�s is they kick you out and require your family and friends stop talking to you. If you get fired, do you have to leave behind your whole social support structure? In any other organization, if you get kicked out, do they insist that the other remaining members shun you when they see you in settings outside than organizational meetings? Sure, kick me out for non-compliance, but don�t insist that remaining members have nothing to do with me OUTSIDE of organizational activities.
If you have never lost your whole family and all your friends because some organization told them to shun you, than you don�t know what I am talking about. And no, I did not break any of God�s rules only Watchtower rules. I did not fornicae, never smoked, no drugs, not gay, not criminal, not apostate, nothing. Just didn�t want to be part of the organization anymore. Do I really deserve to be shunned by all my family and friends? What are they afraid of? That my independent thoughts might infect someone else? Now, I am a dangerous person because I have inside knowledge and I have chosen to leave, not because of sin, but because of choice.
5/31/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
This film was awesome, I liked it.It's interesting to see how all the ticked,bitter,angry and resentfull hate of the opposers & apostates are coming out because of this. All I can say to this is EXCELLENT, it means this film has accomplished it's job and they know it. Two gay men make movie that defends JW's. Just WOW :O That in itself says more than anything, as to our given freedoms.I respect their freedom of choice as God gave it to them. I don't respect perpetually bitter & angry people who tell lies and half truths,frame massive negativity and slander people, as a justifcation for and because they can't get over their own inabilities, that in many cases they signed up for in the first place. You people need to move on with your lives and get over it, just like Joel did. You might be able to better enjoy the time you have left on this earth. Unless you actually enjoy being a tool of you know who?
5/31/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
Well, this movie had maybe the only Jew who converted to a JW in the entire USA as one of it's main characters. It's a sad day when a Jew leaves his covenant people. I am one of a small number of Jehovah's Witnesses in the USA who have converted to Judaism. It's too bad I couldn't have been in this movie- maybe in part 2! Starting with the first book of the Bible, the Watchtower Society has perverted the pure message of the Torah and invented their own version of the Gospel that Jesus came back invisibly in 1914 and then in 1919 picked the WT Society as the one true religion in all the Earth. They teach that everyone who does not agree with this will die at Armageddon. Maybe, someday JW's will become a more humane religion and even open up some public charities to help the poor. And also, stop killing their children over their blood transfuison prohibitions. Shalom. gold5one-gmail.
5/31/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Most negative comments here by opposers of JWs are the same 4 or 5 one-sided criticisms, showing they've read the SAME apostate literature against JWs. These persons claim "Knocking" didn't show "the other side," but the literature they parrot shows only ONE SIDE--the apostate author's! They've made statements without supporting evidence. Obviously some have had limited, or no real association or knowledge of us, other than what they've read in hate literature. For those who really are baptized JWs, and have left, they should critique us Scripturally, rather than judge an entire worldwide religion by their own alleged "bad experience", or by the actions of a few who may not have lived up to Scriptural standards. Have these looked at themselves as to whether or not THEY have lived up to these standards? Being honest about it, perhaps this is why some are no longer JWs. Most people who know Jehovah's Witnesses: relatives, neighbors, work or schoolmates, acquaintences, know better than to swallow what our opposers dish out. They aren't fooled by these collective rantings! Wouldn't it be better to use one's time more productively, helping others learn about the wonderful future Jehovah has in store for people who love and obey Him, than to rant and rave against JWs? If these ranters believe they have the truth, then THEY have the responsibility to "preach the good news of the kingdom" worldwide before the end of this system of things, as Jesus said would be done. (Matt. 24:14).
5/31/07
AK
My name is breanna and i am one of jw's. my goal in life is to preach the good news of the kingdom to eveyone i meet the majority of my family are witnesses. we enjoy the assosiation that we get at the halll and the brothers in the video were back by millions of witnesses all arounbd the world because we are all a united brotherhood. thatnk you for the video it showed more than what people assume!!!!!!!!!!!!
5/30/07
Colin
Washington, DC
Knocking is a thoughtful documentary and it makes a strong point about religious freedom in the US. I personally believe that all religions, however unusual, have the right to practice as they see fit. Truly the JW's have tested the resolve of the US to adhere to 1st Amendment principles. The simple truth about freedom of speech is that in order to have it, we all must sometimes hear things that we don't like.
However, I feel that the film only skims the surface of everything that it means to be a JW, and is slightly biased in the sense it focuses only on the edicts that have resulted in positive advancements of law and medicine, within the context of a family, becoming a witness can be horribly damaging on an emotional level. JW's are discouraged from associating with any individual outside the congregation, even family. I have been dating a JW for a year and I am of another faith, I have fallen in love with her completely in secret. At no time may any of her friends or family members be made aware of our relationship, to do so would cause her to bedisfellowshipped and shunned by those who are closest to her. I care for and support her but I am not a JW and therefore she somehow deserves to be completely ignored by her mother and father as punishment for seeing me.
5/30/07
For all those who either profess to be JW's or who are against them be sure of one thing Joel P. Engardio did not do this documentary to gain any "browny points" from the JW's. The directors of this flim two GAY men who objectively tried to show JW's human and respectable, not lesser beings. Their lifestyles or sexuality are in conflict with this religions beliefs.I do not belong to this organization HOWEVER I greatly respect these people. For those of you who left or were forced to leave, you know you are always welcome back at anytime! Like any organization, baseball team, Scouts club or weightloss regimin there are RULES to follow. You know what you sign up for in most cases from the beginning...so to diss it after only reflects poorly on you. No one person on the face of this earth is perfect and yes some very unpleasant things can be handed down by imperfect man. There is always a way to deal with something you feel strongly about rather than collecting a poisenous heart. For those of you who are witness take pride in your ways and remember "beware he that is standing does not fall." Refrain from casting judgement on this forum and be the bigger person. Let your faith stand for itself...there is only one judge in this world and it is not you!
5/30/07
thank you for airing this program. hopfully it will be on at a more convinient time the next time it is shown. I had no idea that they were killed in W.W.II. WOW!! I couldn't have done it. More people in the world we live in should try to follow the bibles standards. I think Jehovahs Witnesses. Set a good example to everyone world wide. Next time they knock on my door I think i'll listen to their bible message. Thankyou again.
5/30/07
Mr. Engardio's hope that there might "be a discussion about religious and personal freedoms...other than us vs. them" seems, when looking at the other comments, in vain. Those discussing the ideas contained in this intriguing documentary claim, like every other religious discussion I've been foolish enough to join in, claim to be "open minded" but any difference (i.e. preaching door to door) is some horrible aberration that they cannot get passed, so they conveniently disregard all else. Where do I go for really open minded and reasonable discussion??? Not among so-called religious folk, that's for sure!!!
5/30/07
Commenting on two things: first being a JW, the film was good in some respects, not as in depth as I think it should have been and needed maybe 1-2 more subjects other than those mentioned.Secondly, in reply to the email about the ex-JW Franz(the one who wrote his infamous literature); to those who don't know. He realized his wrong attitude and course, and has made every effort to come back. But that is up to Jehovah himself...it's one thing to become inactive in faith (JW,Catholic, etc)but quite another to speak out against that faith and maybe turn others away from what you may not
5/30/07
I am a witness. And I just think it is funny that all of the negative comments is coming from people who ' used ' to be Jehovah's witnesses. Just because you all didn't want to follow not the Witnesses rules, but the rules of the bible and were " shunned ", shouldn't give you the reason to bad mouth and make un-true comments about the organization. It's sorta like someone who loses their job and it's their fault. Then all of a sudden his employers and company is just the worst place ever. But they never blame themselves. If you do wrong and don't repent and get disfellowshipped from the congergation, then that is your fault. Just don't leave and then talk negative about the organization as a whole. That is wrong, and you're giving other right hearted people who's interested the wrong message. Just a " Real " thought about those who try to talk bad against the Witnesses!
5/29/07
Debra
Cowpens, Sc
Thank you for independent lens. I have learned a great deal about people outside of my world. It gives tremendous, unbiased insight into the experiences of others.It helps to bring the world a little closer to your home. I have enjoyed watching many shows in this series. We do not have cable or satellite tv, only local channels and our favorite is pbs which broadcasts independent lens.Most recently, your program, "Knocking" was educational and yet neutral about Jehovah's Witnesses. Most people seem to have a warped or uninformed viewpoint of JW's. Thank you for yet another informative, educational program.
5/29/07
Hector Carde
Stamford, Ct. 06905
Just a brief note to THANK YOU VERY MUCH for airing KNOCKING at your PBS station on channel 132. Despite the negative comments you may have received from viewers of PBS, it is refreshing to find some positive documentaries like this one. Again THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
5/29/07
I was looking forward to this film as informative. Only minutes into it the film, IT FOCUSED ON JEWS. It's supposed to be about Jehovah's Witnesses. Have you noticed the overplay Israel gets in the media compared to Africa or Asia, etc.. Or the overrepresentation on TV. That overattention by the media & the world is what makes this so frustrating.Furthermore, the person wanted to convert, fine, but it's NOT the norm and so it's misleading, & irrelevant.
My Dad's a Jewish survivor, and on that level this is also affrontive to watch as the focus of a program on Jehovah Witnesses. I don't feel that this person is a traitor. However, for instance, what does Jewish survivor opinion of another converted Jewish survivor have to do with learning about Jehovah's Witnesses? Also, JW is so much about converting, so why pick a Jew who converted instead of a Christian, since there are many more Christians in the world? What you interviewed as a JW was not a born-into it. It was a combo person who'd survived trauma. I know why this person was picked. It was easy and available to the filmmaker and maybe part of the family. However, it wasn't appropriate and that should matter. The film could have used this resource with much more carefullness about the relevance of the storyline, that turned out to be largely about a Jew from Germany in the 1940's.(P.S. Jews usually learn that JWs were one of the Nazi victims & it's described in the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, so that wasn't a surprise to me the way it was to a number of the talkback commentors.) Thank you for reading my feedback.
5/29/07
Richard Undlin
Saint Cloud, MN
Thanks for the very well done program on "Knocking." It is good to see how fundamental beliefs can be viewed in a positive way - and without the bias usually seen.
5/29/07
I found this to be the best missionary tool the Jehovah's Witnesses could ever ask for. Nothing the least bit negative was mentioned, and everything was praise. Even their habit of going door to door harassing people was shoen as gently offering to help people, and those who were not interested were made to look narrowminded and unreasonable. My experiences with witnesses at my door have been anything but gently and helpful, and it took a threat of legal charges of trespassing to get rid of them. I wonder just how "independent" this lens is. I know you are going to answer and tell me I am totally wrong, so don't bother.
5/29/07
Reading the posts I am not surprised. We ar eall sinful and make mistakes. Those who are devout JWs and those who have opposing views. There are a number of posts I would like to respond to for others reading them, but basically, it is natural if a person has been hurt even if they were in the wrong, then will have bad things to say. But as a person who has strong personal opinons, I work to cultivate humility that it is clear Jehovah and Jesus love. Even if you have been hurt by an impoerfect Witness, Jesus was hurt by people who loved Him, yet he loved them still. Remember Peter denied Him. Disfellowshipping is an act of love for the whole cong. to protect others from negative influence. That is a Bible rule. If you think it is wrong, then you are in opposition to Jehovah. I am going to post another response to the people who comment about JWs thinking they are the only right religion. Important point to discuss. Every bad thing a human can do, there is probably one person claiming to be a JW did it. That doesn't make it right. Where possible, such things are monitored to keep the cong. clean before Jehovah and the head of the Cong. Jesus. One person doesn't make the dec. to disF. A committee, and there is an appeal process to allow for those who think a mistake was made. Elders look for any sign of repentance for wrongdoing. DFing is a LAST resort for two things. Loving discipline to help the person see their path is willful and wrong, and other reason to help protect others from wrong influence.
5/29/07
Will
San Luis Obispo, CA
Reading the posts I am not surprised. We ar eall sinful and make mistakes. Those who are devout JWs and those who have opposing views. There are a number of posts I would like to respond to for others reading them, but basically, it is natural if a person has been hurt even if they were in the wrong, then will have bad things to say. But as a person who has strong personal opinons, I work to cultivate humility that it is clear Jehovah and Jesus love. Even if you have been hurt by an impoerfect Witness, Jesus was hurt by people who loved Him, yet he loved them still. Remember Peter denied Him. Disfellowshipping is an act of love for the whole cong. to protect others from negative influence. That is a Bible rule. If you think it is wrong, then you are in opposition to Jehovah. I am going to post another response to the people who comment about JWs thinking they are the only right religion. Important point to discuss. Every bad thing a human can do, there is probably one person claiming to be a JW did it. That doesn't make it right. Where possible, such things are monitored to keep the cong. clean before Jehovah and the head of the Cong. Jesus. One person doesn't make the dec. to disF. A committee, and there is an appeal process to allow for those who think a mistake was made. Elders look for any sign of repentance for wrongdoing. DFing is a LAST resort for two things. Loving discipline to help the person see their path is willful and wrong, and other reason to help protect others from wrong influence.
5/29/07
Joseph Birtcher
Rockaway Beach, Missouri
I have been a Jehovah's Witness for over 22 years. Your film can not cover every aspect or the biblical nature of why we do what we do, that is for a certainty. You did a reasonable job of bring out things about the individuals involved in the film as to their being human and there motivation for their faith in God. You did not include the average family and you did not make mention that, I could see of Bible scriptures that back up why we do what we do to the degree that it would help one see that all personal attitudes, ideas, feelings, emotions, direction in life should be based on Gods will and purpose and that all interpertation belongs to God. WE are voluntary slaves to God thru out love for him and his Son Jesus. For the most part what we do,say, express in our lives is based on This Love for Jehovah God and our fellow man. It really is that simple. The comments you have on your site prove that most people that are not familar with Jehovah's Witnesses will not agree with us. But, their being informed as you have done will at least bring them closer, hopefully to their creator.
5/29/07
Oklahoma
So many people are happy that a documentary was done showing the good side of the WT organization. Anyone can produce a documentary showing only the positive things on a subject. I hope and pray that people realize that anyone or group that claims they are the only true religion, "ISN'T"! The WT controls all of the information and anyone that disagrees or has a different opinion and openly declares it is DisFell'd. The strict control of information and bold claims of being the only one with the truth and all else are false are classic cult red flags! Do some research! The info is easy to find. 1954 Walsh Tria.
5/29/07
When you get a job, you get an employee handbook, in that handbook, once signed you have contractually said you will abide by those rules in that book. Let's say one rule is "no drugs" well let say you abuse that rule, they may right you up, they have to protect their assest and you may very well harm their other employees, so the 2nd time happens, you are high again, they fire you, you went against that signed document for the 2nd time....you are then walked to your desk and asked to leave. If JW's did not adhere to the bible regarding disciplining -- how would they be any different than other religions who allow filth to run rampant.... it's like they are dammed if they don't and dammed if they do. Seems, by reading postings, there are alot of disgrunttled employees :) hehe. I will keep reading the literature and pray you all return to your senses!!! -- thank you -- I am someone who lived a bisexual lifestyle and abused drugs for 10 yrs....I made the decision to go against my contract I was gone for 1 0 yrs DF'd....but I've returned to my senses and as long as there is time, anyone can!!! be careful hate is a horrible quality to carry in your backpack through this life that is already full of pain.
5/29/07
El Cajon, CA
Unforunatly I missed Wednesday nights airing of this production. For some reason I couldn't find it scheduled on our local cable system. I heard about this production from the friends in our congregation. But from what I've heard from some of the remarks on this board and other brothers, I missed something special. It is so refreshing that something like this was produced about Jehovah's people from a secular source and WITHOUT bias.I look forward to purchasing the DVD so I can see it and share it with the local brothers and sisters. I also clicked the Criticism button and found the same old dusty arguements that Christendom throw at us everyday. I thought that they were addressed skillfully.
5/29/07
I bought the DVD months ago and just watched the show on TV. I thought it was great! The TV show had some scenes which were not on the DVD which was a nice extra. Thank you for showing a side of our religion that most people don't see. Hopefully viewers will come away with a new appreciation for what has been done in the past which has made their life better today. I have lived 29 years as a JW and have not seen or experienced any of the problems that some ex JW's have presented. I don't speak for others of my faith but I think these same people might of have had the same gripes with the first century Christian congregation regarding "thought control" "doctrine changes" and other authority issues.It's also unfortunate that some of them stopped serving God because of how someone treated them in the past.
Jw's that may have been bad examples in the past were that way NOT BECAUSE they were a witness but because they were not following Bible principles for one reason or another. Our religion doesnot condone abuse of any kind. Were encouraged to be balanced and resonable in all things in how we live life and how we treat others. Thanks again for all the time and effort that was put into making the documentary.
5/29/07
A. Garrett
Carlsbad CA
My experience with mental illness has made me more certain than ever that only by Jehovah's caring love was I able to survive my severe bipolar struggle. First, it's important to point out the general attitude ALL of society has had throughout the ages towards a mentally ill person. Only in the last 10 years has the pandemic of depression become so overwhelming that most people have a family member or friend needing treatment. That in itself is a symptom of the times we're living in. With more exposure comes more understanding, which is what the Watchtower has done an outstanding job of. The January 8, 2004 Awake featured the topic of living with a mood disorder. I cried, of course. What religion makes EVERY effort to correct and inform its followers, giving them a better view of the health struggles involved? I may have had sympathy before, but now I had empathy from my fellow brothers and sisters, and especially the Elders in the congregation who before then tried to help, but didn't know how. As a depressed person knows very well...when you don't know how to handle something, you tend to shut down or out the very help you need. Thanks to Jehovah, the brothers now had the insite to assist and encourage myself and my family through the anguish any illness can bring. Reserch and understanding have come along way in the last 20 years, and so has Jehovah's way of educating his people to cope with the ills of living in this wicked world.
5/29/07
West Palm Beach, Fl.
This film was great, I appreciate it sooo much, that someone finally had the courage to show the world who we really are as JW's. We truly are misunderstood, but remember, so was Jesus Christ our King and saviour, that is one of the reasons why they killed him, but most importantly he also died for our sins. Thank you once again.
5/29/07
I am not a witness, however I am studying the bible with them. I can talk from both sides. When I use to see the witnesses coming down the block, I would raise the music and send the kids to there rooms in order not to answer the door, I now see where I was wrong and admire these gracious people that serve as a great example to us all. I don't see anyone else knocking on my door ready to give of themselves as the witnesses do! Do not feel annoyed when a witness comes to your door and wakes you up from your beauty sleep to offer you everlasting life, not that your beauty sleep can do anything for you, but if you listen to a witness and what they have to offer your beauty sleep will be the last thing on your mind. Also, as far as holidays are concerned so called religious holidays or governmental holidays are just an excuse to commercialize and celebrate. What! sure we don't know, like I said just an excuse to celebrate what you want to and not obligated to socially.
5/29/07
Seattle, WA
Thank you for broadcasting 'Knocking'. The interview with Terrence Howard was supburb. It made me feel very happy to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. When you think of this world we live in like a courtroom drama with a universal issue going on and that we can be witnesses of the only true God, Jehovah. That to me is most amazing and a privilege to have qualified to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Thank you again.
5/29/07
Sanger Calif
The documentary seemed accurate but sadly biased. I have very much respect for the JW's, but much was lacking from the presentation. There was no mention that organ transplants was once viewed as a form of cannibalism among JW's and was not allowed until the year 1980. Many JW's died prior to 1980 for refusing organ transplants. Now this procedure is allowed but no apology was given to the JW families who lost loved ones because of this error. If the father and son in the film tried the organ transplant prior to 1980, they would probably get disfellowshipped. If they refused the organ transplant as many witnesses did prior to 1980, the son would probably have died. How Sad!
5/29/07
Martyn Varyonah
Watertown, South Dakota
I am a Jew. I LOVE Jehovah's Witnesses! I adore them. Now, more than ever. So, so much of their thinking is remarkable in its simple brilliance. It is close as I understand to what Christianity was intended to be at the beginning. Just one thing causes me pain. The practice of shunning is terribly destructive, on many levels. In every religion where it is practiced. How sad... A religion as glorious as theirs. Turned hideous in that one and only way.
5/29/07
Cathy Laszewski
Stevens Point, WI
I'm back! I commented on this documentary already...even before watching it. I had it pegged just as I thought it would be, now that I've actually seen the whole piece. A tremendously well done film full of propaganda as far as I am concerned. If I was able to sit down with the producer and director and go through this documentary and discuss it after every five minutes of filming...I would be able to pick it apart like someone could pick apart a quilt and its stitches. Those of us who have suffered from the shunning by our families for no other reason than leaving...can see that though the JW's are commended for using the courts to gain freedom of speech and "human rights" in this film...by the same token they deny these very rights to baptized members in the thousands of congregations around the world. Please don't let this documentary fool you. This makes the JW's look good on the outside, but underneath the gloss and white-washing is an organization that terrorizes and breaks apart families without remorse. I speak from my heart here, as a JW for over four decades I have been there and have personally seen the "truth" in action. If only I was a film-maker I would do a documentary on what the JW's are truly all about. They are more like Jim Jones than Jesus Christ. Please don't be duped by this piece of film.
5/29/07
Rose
I liked the film. I enjoyed how it showed the good that faith could do in this world. I do not understand why so many people are threatened by this film. It does not make me want to become a JW it just helped me respect their beliefs. Isn�t that what we should do as Americans anyways respect each other right to believe in god in their own way or not to believe at all? I think if we had a little more religious tolerance in this world peace might move closer to becomming a reality. Why does religion have to be wrong or right? (Personally i would never sign up for that kinda commitment). I mean at least their trying. I might suggests though to any jw who are reading this can you please do your knocking after 12 pm I like to sleep in on the weekends along with a lot of other people . That alone would get you a whole lota kudos .
5/29/07
CT
Middle America
I too thought it well done and balanced, but i agree with Bonnie that we need to take care not to be influenced by those who for one reason or another have a dispute or grievance with Jehovah's orginazation. The expression to hate ANYONE is not in any of our publications, while hating what is BAD is. The Bible is the undisputed basis for our beliefs, agreed with or not. All have freedom of choice and no one is coerced into becoming a JW. The modern aspect of our religion is just that,there are similarities to other groups since Jesus apostles that attempted to carry on what they did, we have simply had more success. As far as the pedophilia issue, I too was molested by my step-father who had been molested by a catholic priest and his catholic mother and aunt. I was also molested by NON witness family and friends. The issue has gained impetus in recent decades because many are no longer fearful of bringing it to light, an atrocity that was hard to imagine, especially among JW's. My step-father has been disfellowshipped for years. He has lost everything truly valuable in his life. He has certainly suffered in ways i could'nt have imposed myself. It is a victims right to persue legal recourse and this has been clearly stated by JW's. JW's teach what the Bible CLEARY says is the moral way to live, direct your anger to the abusers who CHOOSE to ignore them.
5/29/07
Claude Kenneson
Tallahassee, Florida
Jehovah's Witnesses were not the only religious people to be sent to the concentration camps: the Pentecostals were virtually all imprisoned; so were thousands of priests, nuns, and Protestant clergy.Jehovah's Witnesses are not the only ones who object to war. So do the Amish, Mennonites, Church of the Brethren, Quakers, and others. Blood transfusions did not exist when Leviticus and Acts were written. The authors hardly could have been objecting to a medical practice that did not even exist and that they did not know about. The prohibition concerns diet (not eating blood as food. Blood is transfused directly into the veins; if one is sick and in the hospital he is not fed blood. It is not used for nutrition, but to replace lost blood needed for transporting oxygen. Jehovah's Witnesses can thank a Catholic monk by the name of Raymundus Martini for part of their name. He was the one that came up with that name in 1278 in a work called "Pugio Fidei ("Dagger of Faith"); it's a LATIN name that was adopted into English translations of the Bible. Jehovah's Witnesses are not the only ones who go from door to door. So do the Mormons and numerous others. I have many more comments to make, but for brevities sake, must end here.
5/29/07
Candice and Joy
Chandler and Davenport,
We live in an imperfect world, with imperfect bodies,imperfect minds,imperfect feelings, and imperfect situations.So as imperfect human beings we will always make mistakes.But the Organization of Jehovah's Witnesses as a whole bases their standards and their lives on the laws written in the Bible by GOD.It is GOD who guides us through HIS teachings, not Man.It is unfair to blame the Organization as a whole for the mistakes of some individuals.We all agree that everyone should have the right to decide their own life.And so we should all treat each other with respect for our beleifs.Those who feel they were alienated from Witness family members, loved ones or friends, have been made to feel so because they did not feel respect for the beliefs of those Winess members they cared for.God gave us the right to choose.And Witnesses are taught to treat others no matter their belief or life style with respect.God wrote in the Bible what He approves of and does not approve of.Since we follow His laws we do not approve of certain life choises but GOD instructed to treat all with loving kindness and respect no matter their choice to serve Him by His satndards or not.And so the Organization as a whole does treat others so.
5/29/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
Whatever journalistic talents Joel Engardio owns, they failed him in this film. He focused primarily on the Holocaust, the blood transfusion issue, and the Supreme Court cases that won religious freedoms for all Americans, but he said nothing about how the freedom to openly question doctrinal issues or Watchtower policy is forbidden to those inside the congregation. There was no portrayal of the other side of the story. He did not discuss the high turnover rate within their congregations, why so many Witnesses leave after a few years, why there is so much anger towards the organization from those who suddenly find themselves on the outside. Not a word about how many families have been ruined over the harsh treatment they've received by some of the judgments of �Judicial Committees. Little time was spent on the failed date prophecies... and how they no longer put a time limit on �this generation, because they obviously got that wrong to.
There was nothing about the dissention of Governing Body member Raymond Franz, and others at the top, and the ensuing �apostate� witch hunts. No mention of how many elders secretly disagree with the blood transfusion policy. There was nothing about the charges of covering up pedophilia inside the congregations, nor the Watchtower�s secret agreement to support the policies of the United Nations as a Non Governmental Organization (NGO), nor why this remains unknown by most Witnesses today. Knocking is not a documentary; it�s a public relations film.
5/29/07
Mimi
Vancouver , Canada
Having heard alot about this film some time ago, I admit I was skeptical at first. But after seeing it for myself, to Joel Engardio and others responsible for making this film, I say "Well Done". Of course, as we all expected, some of the feedback from viewers is very negative. Unfortunately, even in this organization, unscrupulous people who hide what they really are on the inside lurk--even some who have deeply hurt their own family members, all the while seemingly 'walking the straight and narrow'. This is really very sad and it makes us cringe to hear of such experiences. But sad to say, no one in this world can be completely free from that - we hear about it far too often. Because such insidious things as child abuse and molestation are so prevalent today, we are victims of them either directly or indirectly. If we are to believe what the Bible says, we know only too soon that God will undo all the wrongs that have been done, will eliminate those who refuse to change and only then will the true healing process begin.
5/29/07
Vancouver , Canada
This compelling and compassionate look at a religion that i have completely misunderstood my whole life, has given me much food for thought. While i have no religious affiliation, i do have a new-found admiration for the Witnesses, and their unwavering integrity in the face of so many daunting and complex moral dilemmasWe see the on-going horrific results of some international Fundamentalism. Jehovah's Witnesses are not on the same path. We still disagree on most issues, but the next time there is a knock at the door, i will definitely be more welcoming. 5/29/07
Cain A Midnight
I loved the video. I was concerned but watched out of curiosity. Some really are biased in a negative light. I did not feel it promoted our religion but simply said, "Hey, this is WHO hey are." And I speak for many of Jehovah's Witnesses when I say the jokes generally, lets say 85%-90% of the time are funny to us too. Many are really harmless and unoffensive.
5/29/07
Jennifer
Kailua, Hawaii
I became a JW at 19 and then l left the religion at age 22. After a few years away I realized that the JW's had the "truth" regarding the Bible and Jehovah. I promptly returned and worked through many of my problems and mistakes I made in my life. Now I am 30 and am fully dedicated to being a JW and my husband and I are raising our 2 sons in the same manner. This film is an EXCELLENT reminder to me of why I became a JW and of the personal dedication each one of us makes to become one. JW's are who they are because they CHOOSE to be, not because we are told it is what's right or are raised this way. It is up to each one of us to make this very personal decision to be baptised and dedicate our life to Jehovah and I think that this film shows to the general public who are unaware of our beliefs that we are "knocking" at their door, not to convert them, but in hopes of sharing some Bible truths.
5/29/07
Jennifer
Kailua, Hawaii
I became a JW at 19 and then l left the religion at age 22. After a few years away I realized that the JW's had the "truth" regarding the Bible and Jehovah. I promptly returned and worked through many of my problems and mistakes I made in my life. Now I am 30 and am fully dedicated to being a JW and my husband and I are raising our 2 sons in the same manner. This film is an EXCELLENT reminder to me of why I became a JW and of the personal dedication each one of us makes to become one. JW's are who they are because they CHOOSE to be, not because we are told it is what's right or are raised this way. It is up to each one of us to make this very personal decision to be baptised and dedicate our life to Jehovah and I think that this film shows to the general public who are unaware of our beliefs that we are "knocking" at their door, not to convert them, but in hopes of sharing some Bible truths.
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6/1/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
Looks like there is another Moshe Smith who unlike me, thinks the WT Society is a great piece of work. He has it backwards about former JW's being hateful. They are just being honest about their experiences and feelings. This is unlike JW's who pretend to be happy, but inside are confused about WT changes of dogma and scared to even consider the remote possibility that they have made a mistake in giving their entire life over to a group of elderly WT men in NYC. Every time a JW preaches door to door they are required to tell lies. Namely, that in 1919 Jesus picked the WT society to be one true religion on earth. They believe that everyone who does not accept the authority of the WT Society will be killed at Armageddon. Three, maybe four generations of JW's have already failed to see this happen and generation number five will die waiting , too.
6/1/07
I know it was great to show how Jehovahs Witnesses have takin the ground work of the US Supreme Courts and showed alot what they have accomplished for all of our adminment rights. JW's have done alot not only for the U.S. but also for the whole world, there has been no other religion to do this. God just does'nt bless one nation, he blesses the whole world
6/1/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
COLIN (Washington D.C.) There's no easy answer to your situation--dating a JW. Please check my comment to Joshua on 5/29/07. The same would apply in your case.
To DAVID SWINGLE and others who claim to being "shunned" for no reason other than you have left JWs. If you have been disfellowshiped or have formally disassociated yourself, yes, you would be shunned. But if you simply left the faith, having done nothing scripturally wrong, there is no reason why you should be shunned by your family unless their conscience dictates they do so. In fact, when we hear of someone who hasn't been associated for sometime, or perhaps even many years, we often call on them and see if we can help them return. We are extremely happy to have them back. My own brother left the faith many years ago, but we don't shun him. He's not apostate, he just didn't want our life-style anymore. That's his choice. As long as one does not speak false doctrine to others, as an apostate, there is no reason to shun. Being an apostate is different. 1 John 9 says: "If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, never receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him." JWs are simply trying to follow the teachings of the Bible as best we can. If you disagree with that, then you are disagreeing with Jehovah, not JWs.
6/1/07
J
Houston, Texas
I just wanted to thank PBS for showing this documentry. What I liked is that this showed that Jehovah's Witnesses are real people with problems and feelings like every one else.
I also liked the fact that many who never talked with Witnesses for whatever reason, may have been able to see this documentry. As such they had an oppurtunity to learn more, or were able to see some views they may have had were erronous.
6/1/07
Thank you, the documentary was very interesting. The bottom point is that there will always be two sides of the story. Lets remember the documentary was not made to convert people. Its a documentary. Everyone has the freedom to choose if they want to become a JW or not... therefore... if you family member is one... that is there choice. If they are not... that is there choice. Part of having the freedom in this country is to think and believe whatever you like... weather you neighbor likes it or not.
5/31/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
Joel Engardio's intention for making this film, in part, was to open a dialogue between people from different cultures, to promote understanding and tolerance of ideas. What a great and noble motive! It is only when we are willing to listen to each other that we can begin to understand and tolerate different ideas, different world views and different ways of life. Unfortunately, Jehovah's witnesses do not tolerate the free exchange of ideas from anyone within their own ranks, no matter how respectful, sincere, or well meaning. If someone inside poses questions about doctrines, if a person begins to research other explanations of Biblical texts, or consider any alternate views of human history, or make any progress towards exploring these things, they are quickly censured for thinking outside the box; the rank and file are instructed to not even say a greeting to such ones, to disfellowship them. This is a hard realization for children of Witness parents who were baptized at an age when they were unable to reason about such things, and are then kicked out, sometimes into the streets, for daring to question.
Such fear of ideas elicits an irony that cannot be overlooked--they have struggled by legal means, imprisonment, even demonstrated a willingness to die in pursuing the freedom to speak--then they rabidly oppose those who consider another viewpoint from within their own ranks. Jehovah's witnesses want to be heard, but they do not want to listen.
5/31/07
Thanks so much for this eye opener of a film. I do appreciate the opportunity to be enlightened on the Jehovah's Witnesses. Obviously they have contributed much to society un be knowns to many of us. I really think that films like these will go a long way to understanding others we have heard negative things about. HANKS AGAIN
5/31/07
Chicago, IL
I am engaged to an ew-JW & I find the "religion" to be extrememly hypocritical. His family no longer associated with him & refers to him as an apostate - just because he no longer wants to be a part of the JW "religion". If you are a Christian - shouldn't you accept all people? This is not a religion, this a cult. Also, they knock on your door imposing their thoughts on you but refuse to listen to anything that a "worldly" person says. It's hard to believe that so many people are involved in such a limited religion. They do not encourage education past high school & women are treated as secondary.
5/31/07
Chicago, IL
For all you who are likening disfellowshipping/shunning to rules of other organizations. Yes, you could get fired for breaking an employer�s rules, And yes, weight watchers would not want you in their group if you insisted on promoting/living a fat-inducing lifestyle. The difference with JW�s is they kick you out and require your family and friends stop talking to you. If you get fired, do you have to leave behind your whole social support structure? In any other organization, if you get kicked out, do they insist that the other remaining members shun you when they see you in settings outside than organizational meetings? Sure, kick me out for non-compliance, but don�t insist that remaining members have nothing to do with me OUTSIDE of organizational activities.
If you have never lost your whole family and all your friends because some organization told them to shun you, than you don�t know what I am talking about. And no, I did not break any of God�s rules only Watchtower rules. I did not fornicae, never smoked, no drugs, not gay, not criminal, not apostate, nothing. Just didn�t want to be part of the organization anymore. Do I really deserve to be shunned by all my family and friends? What are they afraid of? That my independent thoughts might infect someone else? Now, I am a dangerous person because I have inside knowledge and I have chosen to leave, not because of sin, but because of choice.
5/31/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
This film was awesome, I liked it.It's interesting to see how all the ticked,bitter,angry and resentfull hate of the opposers & apostates are coming out because of this. All I can say to this is EXCELLENT, it means this film has accomplished it's job and they know it. Two gay men make movie that defends JW's. Just WOW :O That in itself says more than anything, as to our given freedoms.I respect their freedom of choice as God gave it to them. I don't respect perpetually bitter & angry people who tell lies and half truths,frame massive negativity and slander people, as a justifcation for and because they can't get over their own inabilities, that in many cases they signed up for in the first place. You people need to move on with your lives and get over it, just like Joel did. You might be able to better enjoy the time you have left on this earth. Unless you actually enjoy being a tool of you know who?
5/31/07
Moshe Smith
Indianapolis, IN
Well, this movie had maybe the only Jew who converted to a JW in the entire USA as one of it's main characters. It's a sad day when a Jew leaves his covenant people. I am one of a small number of Jehovah's Witnesses in the USA who have converted to Judaism. It's too bad I couldn't have been in this movie- maybe in part 2! Starting with the first book of the Bible, the Watchtower Society has perverted the pure message of the Torah and invented their own version of the Gospel that Jesus came back invisibly in 1914 and then in 1919 picked the WT Society as the one true religion in all the Earth. They teach that everyone who does not agree with this will die at Armageddon. Maybe, someday JW's will become a more humane religion and even open up some public charities to help the poor. And also, stop killing their children over their blood transfuison prohibitions. Shalom. gold5one-gmail.
5/31/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Most negative comments here by opposers of JWs are the same 4 or 5 one-sided criticisms, showing they've read the SAME apostate literature against JWs. These persons claim "Knocking" didn't show "the other side," but the literature they parrot shows only ONE SIDE--the apostate author's! They've made statements without supporting evidence. Obviously some have had limited, or no real association or knowledge of us, other than what they've read in hate literature. For those who really are baptized JWs, and have left, they should critique us Scripturally, rather than judge an entire worldwide religion by their own alleged "bad experience", or by the actions of a few who may not have lived up to Scriptural standards. Have these looked at themselves as to whether or not THEY have lived up to these standards? Being honest about it, perhaps this is why some are no longer JWs. Most people who know Jehovah's Witnesses: relatives, neighbors, work or schoolmates, acquaintences, know better than to swallow what our opposers dish out. They aren't fooled by these collective rantings! Wouldn't it be better to use one's time more productively, helping others learn about the wonderful future Jehovah has in store for people who love and obey Him, than to rant and rave against JWs? If these ranters believe they have the truth, then THEY have the responsibility to "preach the good news of the kingdom" worldwide before the end of this system of things, as Jesus said would be done. (Matt. 24:14).
5/31/07
AK
My name is breanna and i am one of jw's. my goal in life is to preach the good news of the kingdom to eveyone i meet the majority of my family are witnesses. we enjoy the assosiation that we get at the halll and the brothers in the video were back by millions of witnesses all arounbd the world because we are all a united brotherhood. thatnk you for the video it showed more than what people assume!!!!!!!!!!!!
5/30/07
Colin
Washington, DC
Knocking is a thoughtful documentary and it makes a strong point about religious freedom in the US. I personally believe that all religions, however unusual, have the right to practice as they see fit. Truly the JW's have tested the resolve of the US to adhere to 1st Amendment principles. The simple truth about freedom of speech is that in order to have it, we all must sometimes hear things that we don't like.
However, I feel that the film only skims the surface of everything that it means to be a JW, and is slightly biased in the sense it focuses only on the edicts that have resulted in positive advancements of law and medicine, within the context of a family, becoming a witness can be horribly damaging on an emotional level. JW's are discouraged from associating with any individual outside the congregation, even family. I have been dating a JW for a year and I am of another faith, I have fallen in love with her completely in secret. At no time may any of her friends or family members be made aware of our relationship, to do so would cause her to bedisfellowshipped and shunned by those who are closest to her. I care for and support her but I am not a JW and therefore she somehow deserves to be completely ignored by her mother and father as punishment for seeing me.
5/30/07
For all those who either profess to be JW's or who are against them be sure of one thing Joel P. Engardio did not do this documentary to gain any "browny points" from the JW's. The directors of this flim two GAY men who objectively tried to show JW's human and respectable, not lesser beings. Their lifestyles or sexuality are in conflict with this religions beliefs.I do not belong to this organization HOWEVER I greatly respect these people. For those of you who left or were forced to leave, you know you are always welcome back at anytime! Like any organization, baseball team, Scouts club or weightloss regimin there are RULES to follow. You know what you sign up for in most cases from the beginning...so to diss it after only reflects poorly on you. No one person on the face of this earth is perfect and yes some very unpleasant things can be handed down by imperfect man. There is always a way to deal with something you feel strongly about rather than collecting a poisenous heart. For those of you who are witness take pride in your ways and remember "beware he that is standing does not fall." Refrain from casting judgement on this forum and be the bigger person. Let your faith stand for itself...there is only one judge in this world and it is not you!
5/30/07
thank you for airing this program. hopfully it will be on at a more convinient time the next time it is shown. I had no idea that they were killed in W.W.II. WOW!! I couldn't have done it. More people in the world we live in should try to follow the bibles standards. I think Jehovahs Witnesses. Set a good example to everyone world wide. Next time they knock on my door I think i'll listen to their bible message. Thankyou again.
5/30/07
Mr. Engardio's hope that there might "be a discussion about religious and personal freedoms...other than us vs. them" seems, when looking at the other comments, in vain. Those discussing the ideas contained in this intriguing documentary claim, like every other religious discussion I've been foolish enough to join in, claim to be "open minded" but any difference (i.e. preaching door to door) is some horrible aberration that they cannot get passed, so they conveniently disregard all else. Where do I go for really open minded and reasonable discussion??? Not among so-called religious folk, that's for sure!!!
5/30/07
Commenting on two things: first being a JW, the film was good in some respects, not as in depth as I think it should have been and needed maybe 1-2 more subjects other than those mentioned.Secondly, in reply to the email about the ex-JW Franz(the one who wrote his infamous literature); to those who don't know. He realized his wrong attitude and course, and has made every effort to come back. But that is up to Jehovah himself...it's one thing to become inactive in faith (JW,Catholic, etc)but quite another to speak out against that faith and maybe turn others away from what you may not
5/30/07
I am a witness. And I just think it is funny that all of the negative comments is coming from people who ' used ' to be Jehovah's witnesses. Just because you all didn't want to follow not the Witnesses rules, but the rules of the bible and were " shunned ", shouldn't give you the reason to bad mouth and make un-true comments about the organization. It's sorta like someone who loses their job and it's their fault. Then all of a sudden his employers and company is just the worst place ever. But they never blame themselves. If you do wrong and don't repent and get disfellowshipped from the congergation, then that is your fault. Just don't leave and then talk negative about the organization as a whole. That is wrong, and you're giving other right hearted people who's interested the wrong message. Just a " Real " thought about those who try to talk bad against the Witnesses!
5/29/07
Debra
Cowpens, Sc
Thank you for independent lens. I have learned a great deal about people outside of my world. It gives tremendous, unbiased insight into the experiences of others.It helps to bring the world a little closer to your home. I have enjoyed watching many shows in this series. We do not have cable or satellite tv, only local channels and our favorite is pbs which broadcasts independent lens.Most recently, your program, "Knocking" was educational and yet neutral about Jehovah's Witnesses. Most people seem to have a warped or uninformed viewpoint of JW's. Thank you for yet another informative, educational program.
5/29/07
Hector Carde
Stamford, Ct. 06905
Just a brief note to THANK YOU VERY MUCH for airing KNOCKING at your PBS station on channel 132. Despite the negative comments you may have received from viewers of PBS, it is refreshing to find some positive documentaries like this one. Again THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
5/29/07
I was looking forward to this film as informative. Only minutes into it the film, IT FOCUSED ON JEWS. It's supposed to be about Jehovah's Witnesses. Have you noticed the overplay Israel gets in the media compared to Africa or Asia, etc.. Or the overrepresentation on TV. That overattention by the media & the world is what makes this so frustrating.Furthermore, the person wanted to convert, fine, but it's NOT the norm and so it's misleading, & irrelevant.
My Dad's a Jewish survivor, and on that level this is also affrontive to watch as the focus of a program on Jehovah Witnesses. I don't feel that this person is a traitor. However, for instance, what does Jewish survivor opinion of another converted Jewish survivor have to do with learning about Jehovah's Witnesses? Also, JW is so much about converting, so why pick a Jew who converted instead of a Christian, since there are many more Christians in the world? What you interviewed as a JW was not a born-into it. It was a combo person who'd survived trauma. I know why this person was picked. It was easy and available to the filmmaker and maybe part of the family. However, it wasn't appropriate and that should matter. The film could have used this resource with much more carefullness about the relevance of the storyline, that turned out to be largely about a Jew from Germany in the 1940's.(P.S. Jews usually learn that JWs were one of the Nazi victims & it's described in the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, so that wasn't a surprise to me the way it was to a number of the talkback commentors.) Thank you for reading my feedback.
5/29/07
Richard Undlin
Saint Cloud, MN
Thanks for the very well done program on "Knocking." It is good to see how fundamental beliefs can be viewed in a positive way - and without the bias usually seen.
5/29/07
I found this to be the best missionary tool the Jehovah's Witnesses could ever ask for. Nothing the least bit negative was mentioned, and everything was praise. Even their habit of going door to door harassing people was shoen as gently offering to help people, and those who were not interested were made to look narrowminded and unreasonable. My experiences with witnesses at my door have been anything but gently and helpful, and it took a threat of legal charges of trespassing to get rid of them. I wonder just how "independent" this lens is. I know you are going to answer and tell me I am totally wrong, so don't bother.
5/29/07
Reading the posts I am not surprised. We ar eall sinful and make mistakes. Those who are devout JWs and those who have opposing views. There are a number of posts I would like to respond to for others reading them, but basically, it is natural if a person has been hurt even if they were in the wrong, then will have bad things to say. But as a person who has strong personal opinons, I work to cultivate humility that it is clear Jehovah and Jesus love. Even if you have been hurt by an impoerfect Witness, Jesus was hurt by people who loved Him, yet he loved them still. Remember Peter denied Him. Disfellowshipping is an act of love for the whole cong. to protect others from negative influence. That is a Bible rule. If you think it is wrong, then you are in opposition to Jehovah. I am going to post another response to the people who comment about JWs thinking they are the only right religion. Important point to discuss. Every bad thing a human can do, there is probably one person claiming to be a JW did it. That doesn't make it right. Where possible, such things are monitored to keep the cong. clean before Jehovah and the head of the Cong. Jesus. One person doesn't make the dec. to disF. A committee, and there is an appeal process to allow for those who think a mistake was made. Elders look for any sign of repentance for wrongdoing. DFing is a LAST resort for two things. Loving discipline to help the person see their path is willful and wrong, and other reason to help protect others from wrong influence.
5/29/07
Will
San Luis Obispo, CA
Reading the posts I am not surprised. We ar eall sinful and make mistakes. Those who are devout JWs and those who have opposing views. There are a number of posts I would like to respond to for others reading them, but basically, it is natural if a person has been hurt even if they were in the wrong, then will have bad things to say. But as a person who has strong personal opinons, I work to cultivate humility that it is clear Jehovah and Jesus love. Even if you have been hurt by an impoerfect Witness, Jesus was hurt by people who loved Him, yet he loved them still. Remember Peter denied Him. Disfellowshipping is an act of love for the whole cong. to protect others from negative influence. That is a Bible rule. If you think it is wrong, then you are in opposition to Jehovah. I am going to post another response to the people who comment about JWs thinking they are the only right religion. Important point to discuss. Every bad thing a human can do, there is probably one person claiming to be a JW did it. That doesn't make it right. Where possible, such things are monitored to keep the cong. clean before Jehovah and the head of the Cong. Jesus. One person doesn't make the dec. to disF. A committee, and there is an appeal process to allow for those who think a mistake was made. Elders look for any sign of repentance for wrongdoing. DFing is a LAST resort for two things. Loving discipline to help the person see their path is willful and wrong, and other reason to help protect others from wrong influence.
5/29/07
Joseph Birtcher
Rockaway Beach, Missouri
I have been a Jehovah's Witness for over 22 years. Your film can not cover every aspect or the biblical nature of why we do what we do, that is for a certainty. You did a reasonable job of bring out things about the individuals involved in the film as to their being human and there motivation for their faith in God. You did not include the average family and you did not make mention that, I could see of Bible scriptures that back up why we do what we do to the degree that it would help one see that all personal attitudes, ideas, feelings, emotions, direction in life should be based on Gods will and purpose and that all interpertation belongs to God. WE are voluntary slaves to God thru out love for him and his Son Jesus. For the most part what we do,say, express in our lives is based on This Love for Jehovah God and our fellow man. It really is that simple. The comments you have on your site prove that most people that are not familar with Jehovah's Witnesses will not agree with us. But, their being informed as you have done will at least bring them closer, hopefully to their creator.
5/29/07
Oklahoma
So many people are happy that a documentary was done showing the good side of the WT organization. Anyone can produce a documentary showing only the positive things on a subject. I hope and pray that people realize that anyone or group that claims they are the only true religion, "ISN'T"! The WT controls all of the information and anyone that disagrees or has a different opinion and openly declares it is DisFell'd. The strict control of information and bold claims of being the only one with the truth and all else are false are classic cult red flags! Do some research! The info is easy to find. 1954 Walsh Tria.
5/29/07
When you get a job, you get an employee handbook, in that handbook, once signed you have contractually said you will abide by those rules in that book. Let's say one rule is "no drugs" well let say you abuse that rule, they may right you up, they have to protect their assest and you may very well harm their other employees, so the 2nd time happens, you are high again, they fire you, you went against that signed document for the 2nd time....you are then walked to your desk and asked to leave. If JW's did not adhere to the bible regarding disciplining -- how would they be any different than other religions who allow filth to run rampant.... it's like they are dammed if they don't and dammed if they do. Seems, by reading postings, there are alot of disgrunttled employees :) hehe. I will keep reading the literature and pray you all return to your senses!!! -- thank you -- I am someone who lived a bisexual lifestyle and abused drugs for 10 yrs....I made the decision to go against my contract I was gone for 1 0 yrs DF'd....but I've returned to my senses and as long as there is time, anyone can!!! be careful hate is a horrible quality to carry in your backpack through this life that is already full of pain.
5/29/07
El Cajon, CA
Unforunatly I missed Wednesday nights airing of this production. For some reason I couldn't find it scheduled on our local cable system. I heard about this production from the friends in our congregation. But from what I've heard from some of the remarks on this board and other brothers, I missed something special. It is so refreshing that something like this was produced about Jehovah's people from a secular source and WITHOUT bias.I look forward to purchasing the DVD so I can see it and share it with the local brothers and sisters. I also clicked the Criticism button and found the same old dusty arguements that Christendom throw at us everyday. I thought that they were addressed skillfully.
5/29/07
I bought the DVD months ago and just watched the show on TV. I thought it was great! The TV show had some scenes which were not on the DVD which was a nice extra. Thank you for showing a side of our religion that most people don't see. Hopefully viewers will come away with a new appreciation for what has been done in the past which has made their life better today. I have lived 29 years as a JW and have not seen or experienced any of the problems that some ex JW's have presented. I don't speak for others of my faith but I think these same people might of have had the same gripes with the first century Christian congregation regarding "thought control" "doctrine changes" and other authority issues.It's also unfortunate that some of them stopped serving God because of how someone treated them in the past.
Jw's that may have been bad examples in the past were that way NOT BECAUSE they were a witness but because they were not following Bible principles for one reason or another. Our religion doesnot condone abuse of any kind. Were encouraged to be balanced and resonable in all things in how we live life and how we treat others. Thanks again for all the time and effort that was put into making the documentary.
5/29/07
A. Garrett
Carlsbad CA
My experience with mental illness has made me more certain than ever that only by Jehovah's caring love was I able to survive my severe bipolar struggle. First, it's important to point out the general attitude ALL of society has had throughout the ages towards a mentally ill person. Only in the last 10 years has the pandemic of depression become so overwhelming that most people have a family member or friend needing treatment. That in itself is a symptom of the times we're living in. With more exposure comes more understanding, which is what the Watchtower has done an outstanding job of. The January 8, 2004 Awake featured the topic of living with a mood disorder. I cried, of course. What religion makes EVERY effort to correct and inform its followers, giving them a better view of the health struggles involved? I may have had sympathy before, but now I had empathy from my fellow brothers and sisters, and especially the Elders in the congregation who before then tried to help, but didn't know how. As a depressed person knows very well...when you don't know how to handle something, you tend to shut down or out the very help you need. Thanks to Jehovah, the brothers now had the insite to assist and encourage myself and my family through the anguish any illness can bring. Reserch and understanding have come along way in the last 20 years, and so has Jehovah's way of educating his people to cope with the ills of living in this wicked world.
5/29/07
West Palm Beach, Fl.
This film was great, I appreciate it sooo much, that someone finally had the courage to show the world who we really are as JW's. We truly are misunderstood, but remember, so was Jesus Christ our King and saviour, that is one of the reasons why they killed him, but most importantly he also died for our sins. Thank you once again.
5/29/07
I am not a witness, however I am studying the bible with them. I can talk from both sides. When I use to see the witnesses coming down the block, I would raise the music and send the kids to there rooms in order not to answer the door, I now see where I was wrong and admire these gracious people that serve as a great example to us all. I don't see anyone else knocking on my door ready to give of themselves as the witnesses do! Do not feel annoyed when a witness comes to your door and wakes you up from your beauty sleep to offer you everlasting life, not that your beauty sleep can do anything for you, but if you listen to a witness and what they have to offer your beauty sleep will be the last thing on your mind. Also, as far as holidays are concerned so called religious holidays or governmental holidays are just an excuse to commercialize and celebrate. What! sure we don't know, like I said just an excuse to celebrate what you want to and not obligated to socially.
5/29/07
Seattle, WA
Thank you for broadcasting 'Knocking'. The interview with Terrence Howard was supburb. It made me feel very happy to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. When you think of this world we live in like a courtroom drama with a universal issue going on and that we can be witnesses of the only true God, Jehovah. That to me is most amazing and a privilege to have qualified to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Thank you again.
5/29/07
Sanger Calif
The documentary seemed accurate but sadly biased. I have very much respect for the JW's, but much was lacking from the presentation. There was no mention that organ transplants was once viewed as a form of cannibalism among JW's and was not allowed until the year 1980. Many JW's died prior to 1980 for refusing organ transplants. Now this procedure is allowed but no apology was given to the JW families who lost loved ones because of this error. If the father and son in the film tried the organ transplant prior to 1980, they would probably get disfellowshipped. If they refused the organ transplant as many witnesses did prior to 1980, the son would probably have died. How Sad!
5/29/07
Martyn Varyonah
Watertown, South Dakota
I am a Jew. I LOVE Jehovah's Witnesses! I adore them. Now, more than ever. So, so much of their thinking is remarkable in its simple brilliance. It is close as I understand to what Christianity was intended to be at the beginning. Just one thing causes me pain. The practice of shunning is terribly destructive, on many levels. In every religion where it is practiced. How sad... A religion as glorious as theirs. Turned hideous in that one and only way.
5/29/07
Cathy Laszewski
Stevens Point, WI
I'm back! I commented on this documentary already...even before watching it. I had it pegged just as I thought it would be, now that I've actually seen the whole piece. A tremendously well done film full of propaganda as far as I am concerned. If I was able to sit down with the producer and director and go through this documentary and discuss it after every five minutes of filming...I would be able to pick it apart like someone could pick apart a quilt and its stitches. Those of us who have suffered from the shunning by our families for no other reason than leaving...can see that though the JW's are commended for using the courts to gain freedom of speech and "human rights" in this film...by the same token they deny these very rights to baptized members in the thousands of congregations around the world. Please don't let this documentary fool you. This makes the JW's look good on the outside, but underneath the gloss and white-washing is an organization that terrorizes and breaks apart families without remorse. I speak from my heart here, as a JW for over four decades I have been there and have personally seen the "truth" in action. If only I was a film-maker I would do a documentary on what the JW's are truly all about. They are more like Jim Jones than Jesus Christ. Please don't be duped by this piece of film.
5/29/07
Rose
I liked the film. I enjoyed how it showed the good that faith could do in this world. I do not understand why so many people are threatened by this film. It does not make me want to become a JW it just helped me respect their beliefs. Isn�t that what we should do as Americans anyways respect each other right to believe in god in their own way or not to believe at all? I think if we had a little more religious tolerance in this world peace might move closer to becomming a reality. Why does religion have to be wrong or right? (Personally i would never sign up for that kinda commitment). I mean at least their trying. I might suggests though to any jw who are reading this can you please do your knocking after 12 pm I like to sleep in on the weekends along with a lot of other people . That alone would get you a whole lota kudos .
5/29/07
CT
Middle America
I too thought it well done and balanced, but i agree with Bonnie that we need to take care not to be influenced by those who for one reason or another have a dispute or grievance with Jehovah's orginazation. The expression to hate ANYONE is not in any of our publications, while hating what is BAD is. The Bible is the undisputed basis for our beliefs, agreed with or not. All have freedom of choice and no one is coerced into becoming a JW. The modern aspect of our religion is just that,there are similarities to other groups since Jesus apostles that attempted to carry on what they did, we have simply had more success. As far as the pedophilia issue, I too was molested by my step-father who had been molested by a catholic priest and his catholic mother and aunt. I was also molested by NON witness family and friends. The issue has gained impetus in recent decades because many are no longer fearful of bringing it to light, an atrocity that was hard to imagine, especially among JW's. My step-father has been disfellowshipped for years. He has lost everything truly valuable in his life. He has certainly suffered in ways i could'nt have imposed myself. It is a victims right to persue legal recourse and this has been clearly stated by JW's. JW's teach what the Bible CLEARY says is the moral way to live, direct your anger to the abusers who CHOOSE to ignore them.
5/29/07
Claude Kenneson
Tallahassee, Florida
Jehovah's Witnesses were not the only religious people to be sent to the concentration camps: the Pentecostals were virtually all imprisoned; so were thousands of priests, nuns, and Protestant clergy.Jehovah's Witnesses are not the only ones who object to war. So do the Amish, Mennonites, Church of the Brethren, Quakers, and others. Blood transfusions did not exist when Leviticus and Acts were written. The authors hardly could have been objecting to a medical practice that did not even exist and that they did not know about. The prohibition concerns diet (not eating blood as food. Blood is transfused directly into the veins; if one is sick and in the hospital he is not fed blood. It is not used for nutrition, but to replace lost blood needed for transporting oxygen. Jehovah's Witnesses can thank a Catholic monk by the name of Raymundus Martini for part of their name. He was the one that came up with that name in 1278 in a work called "Pugio Fidei ("Dagger of Faith"); it's a LATIN name that was adopted into English translations of the Bible. Jehovah's Witnesses are not the only ones who go from door to door. So do the Mormons and numerous others. I have many more comments to make, but for brevities sake, must end here.
5/29/07
Candice and Joy
Chandler and Davenport,
We live in an imperfect world, with imperfect bodies,imperfect minds,imperfect feelings, and imperfect situations.So as imperfect human beings we will always make mistakes.But the Organization of Jehovah's Witnesses as a whole bases their standards and their lives on the laws written in the Bible by GOD.It is GOD who guides us through HIS teachings, not Man.It is unfair to blame the Organization as a whole for the mistakes of some individuals.We all agree that everyone should have the right to decide their own life.And so we should all treat each other with respect for our beleifs.Those who feel they were alienated from Witness family members, loved ones or friends, have been made to feel so because they did not feel respect for the beliefs of those Winess members they cared for.God gave us the right to choose.And Witnesses are taught to treat others no matter their belief or life style with respect.God wrote in the Bible what He approves of and does not approve of.Since we follow His laws we do not approve of certain life choises but GOD instructed to treat all with loving kindness and respect no matter their choice to serve Him by His satndards or not.And so the Organization as a whole does treat others so.
5/29/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
Whatever journalistic talents Joel Engardio owns, they failed him in this film. He focused primarily on the Holocaust, the blood transfusion issue, and the Supreme Court cases that won religious freedoms for all Americans, but he said nothing about how the freedom to openly question doctrinal issues or Watchtower policy is forbidden to those inside the congregation. There was no portrayal of the other side of the story. He did not discuss the high turnover rate within their congregations, why so many Witnesses leave after a few years, why there is so much anger towards the organization from those who suddenly find themselves on the outside. Not a word about how many families have been ruined over the harsh treatment they've received by some of the judgments of �Judicial Committees. Little time was spent on the failed date prophecies... and how they no longer put a time limit on �this generation, because they obviously got that wrong to.
There was nothing about the dissention of Governing Body member Raymond Franz, and others at the top, and the ensuing �apostate� witch hunts. No mention of how many elders secretly disagree with the blood transfusion policy. There was nothing about the charges of covering up pedophilia inside the congregations, nor the Watchtower�s secret agreement to support the policies of the United Nations as a Non Governmental Organization (NGO), nor why this remains unknown by most Witnesses today. Knocking is not a documentary; it�s a public relations film.
5/29/07
Mimi
Vancouver , Canada
Having heard alot about this film some time ago, I admit I was skeptical at first. But after seeing it for myself, to Joel Engardio and others responsible for making this film, I say "Well Done". Of course, as we all expected, some of the feedback from viewers is very negative. Unfortunately, even in this organization, unscrupulous people who hide what they really are on the inside lurk--even some who have deeply hurt their own family members, all the while seemingly 'walking the straight and narrow'. This is really very sad and it makes us cringe to hear of such experiences. But sad to say, no one in this world can be completely free from that - we hear about it far too often. Because such insidious things as child abuse and molestation are so prevalent today, we are victims of them either directly or indirectly. If we are to believe what the Bible says, we know only too soon that God will undo all the wrongs that have been done, will eliminate those who refuse to change and only then will the true healing process begin.
5/29/07
Vancouver , Canada
This compelling and compassionate look at a religion that i have completely misunderstood my whole life, has given me much food for thought. While i have no religious affiliation, i do have a new-found admiration for the Witnesses, and their unwavering integrity in the face of so many daunting and complex moral dilemmasWe see the on-going horrific results of some international Fundamentalism. Jehovah's Witnesses are not on the same path. We still disagree on most issues, but the next time there is a knock at the door, i will definitely be more welcoming. 5/29/07
Cain A Midnight
I loved the video. I was concerned but watched out of curiosity. Some really are biased in a negative light. I did not feel it promoted our religion but simply said, "Hey, this is WHO hey are." And I speak for many of Jehovah's Witnesses when I say the jokes generally, lets say 85%-90% of the time are funny to us too. Many are really harmless and unoffensive.
5/29/07
Jennifer
Kailua, Hawaii
I became a JW at 19 and then l left the religion at age 22. After a few years away I realized that the JW's had the "truth" regarding the Bible and Jehovah. I promptly returned and worked through many of my problems and mistakes I made in my life. Now I am 30 and am fully dedicated to being a JW and my husband and I are raising our 2 sons in the same manner. This film is an EXCELLENT reminder to me of why I became a JW and of the personal dedication each one of us makes to become one. JW's are who they are because they CHOOSE to be, not because we are told it is what's right or are raised this way. It is up to each one of us to make this very personal decision to be baptised and dedicate our life to Jehovah and I think that this film shows to the general public who are unaware of our beliefs that we are "knocking" at their door, not to convert them, but in hopes of sharing some Bible truths.
5/29/07
Jennifer
Kailua, Hawaii
I became a JW at 19 and then l left the religion at age 22. After a few years away I realized that the JW's had the "truth" regarding the Bible and Jehovah. I promptly returned and worked through many of my problems and mistakes I made in my life. Now I am 30 and am fully dedicated to being a JW and my husband and I are raising our 2 sons in the same manner. This film is an EXCELLENT reminder to me of why I became a JW and of the personal dedication each one of us makes to become one. JW's are who they are because they CHOOSE to be, not because we are told it is what's right or are raised this way. It is up to each one of us to make this very personal decision to be baptised and dedicate our life to Jehovah and I think that this film shows to the general public who are unaware of our beliefs that we are "knocking" at their door, not to convert them, but in hopes of sharing some Bible truths.
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8/8/2010
Ziddina
Denver, CO
People occasionally jump into a religion in much the same way that impulsive people leap headlong into a marriage - without looking first. When job-shopping, I look up the names of the prospective companies on the Internet, along with the term "lawsuits"... I was amazed at what was revealed about four of my prospective employers - and decided NOT to apply, based upon what I read... As for researching the Jehovah's Witnesses, why not go down to your local Kingdom Hall and ask to see ALL of their OLD literature - and to peruse it at your leisure, either in the Kingdom Hall or at home... It would be most revealing if the Jehovah's Witnesses refuse to allow you this simple request...
5/8/2010
Fresno
Don't listen to apostates. Everybody who reads these but especially our brothers and sisters reading these posts. They have chosen to go the other way which is their decision, it is a decision which Jehovah himself has allowed. But rather than keeping that to themselves and going on with their lives, they let hatred and violence build up in their hearts for Jehovah's people and they do whatever they can to stumble us, to weaken our resolve. These are not people we can afford to be baited into an argument with, they have no interest in our well being. When you see a post that is riddled with apostate language, please brothers and sisters, flea from it. And on the other hand turn it into a positive, if they didn't believe in their hearts that this is the Truth, then they would go on about their lives but they persist because they are afraid of the implications of the course they have taken. Does this remind you of anyone brothers and sisters. Keep on the watch. Keep Jehovah's day in mind, it will be here soon.
5/3/2010
Ruth E. Piller
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
May I suggest a sequel to Knocking, which I own,and love. A 2nd documentary on the work J.W.'s do in the field of relief. Our work is never made known, or seen, but you won't believe your eyes if you see what we are doing in Haiti, Chili, Etc. Etc. around the world. Not just for our brothers but for all comers,as possible and practicable. It would make an incredible follow-up to Knocking. Please follow up on this suggestion the world needs to know much more about our organiztion. Thanks, all of you.
4/28/2010
Wendy
Vancouver, BC
its about time there was a documentary that shows jehovahs people with truth, when u see all the people that hate jehovah on here it doesnt surprise me, jesus did say they will hate you and lie about you.,,i have a question for other people that say they believe in god.why do u worship the cross.what jesus died on doesnt matter, if he was stoned to death would you have a rock around your neck and a bolder on top of your church. it is jehovah that the witnesses worship , matthew 4;10 is just one example,
05/18/2009
Aurora, CO
I only glanced at 1/3 of the posts below, but thought it worthy to mention that JWs do not ONLY think that being gay is wrong. They think it is just as wrong to have sex outside of marriage if you are heterosexual. Also, my daughter got baptized at 11, then left the organization. Jews bar mitzvah at 13, don't they? Loyalty is a forgotten value, but what distinguishes us as an organization is that we believe that Jehovah is earth's sovereign-therefore has the right to set the standards of right/wrong. After one accepts that, as she was mature enough to do, then rejects that, we cannot condone. No organization would. If you were a college student, decided that the teacher was wrong and put different answers on the test than what the teacher taught, or cheated, would that org. not reject you as a member? Standards are standards. Parents send their children to their room for unacceptable behavior all the time.
JWs encourage education to learn a trade w/o the time/$ investment college requires. I have no college, my sister has a B.A. She just quit her corporate job to do what I do for a living. She still has a student loan 25 yrs later.
05/12/2009
I was witness for the first 22 years of my life and it wasn't until I was disfellowshipped that I started to do serious research into JW history that I realized how misguided they are as an organization. It's not the rank and files' fault. The leadership have created this religious authority that is so much like the religions they detest. Only serving to control it's members and imposing itself on peoples' consciences. They say the light continually get's brighter for them in that they continually change their views when they see fit. Charles Russell who founded the original group said that "religion is a snare and a racket, the bible will be the only guide you will ever need." I wonder what Brother Russell would say today? Read: "Crisis of Conscience" and "In Search of Christian Freedom" by Ramond Franz a former member of the governing body and learn the real truth!!
04/24/2009
Melanie
Charleston, SC
Please google-- JW's stance on organ transplants: at first you could not have them, now you can. JW's stance on blood transfusions: at first no blood, now blood fractions are acceptable. JW's cover up of child molestation.
The biggest lie- only unrepentant sinners are disfellowshipped.
WRONG-- I repented but was still disfellowshipped. I did not choose this religion, I was born into it. My parents guilted me into getting baptized at the young age of 11. I was too young to make such a serious decision. Jesus didn't get baptized until he was 30, but JWs guilt pre-teen children into getting baptized before they can fully understand what that means.
I was told not to go to college because Armageddon would come before I graduated. Well, that was over ten years ago and now Im stuck in a dead end job living pay check to pay check, because I dont have a college degree.
Thanks, Watchtower and Bible Society!
And you know plenty of people in the organization right now who are struggling, barely making ends meet because they didn't get a college degree, based on the advice from the society, you know this is true. Millions now living will never die!
Rutherford - 1918
04/02/2009
myrtle beach, sc
I am glad that someone has thought it well enough to draw attention to the wonderful work of this organization. Because this world exudes a "fun first" and "morals later" many times Jehovah's Witnesses are attacked for pursuing good moral conduct. To many it is restricted and thus when things are moving smoothly as they follow good standards but "look out" as it seems at the rest of the world, they feel as if they are missing out and decide that being a Witness is not for them. Truth is,they have a choice. This Jehovah's Witnesses strongly believe since God himself has given all a choice. Thus their religion is forced on no one but is free for those pursuing righteousness, that is from God's viewpoint.
03/28/2009
Y. Derrell
Palmdale, CA
Knocking - Hello I am one of Jehovah's witnesses and found your film very enlightening, especially for those who have misconceptions about us. I heard the interview with Terrance Howard and was wondering when similar films on JWs will air. These are very educational. Thanks 03/23/2009
Juan Carlos Madrid
Santiago de Chile
Excelente Documental! Muy equilibrado y apegado a la verdadera historia de los Testigos de Jehov. Soy uno de ellos y creo que Engardio hace un trabajo muy profesional y serio, imparcial y realista. An cuando este Documental "Knocking", haga reflexionar a muchas personas no Testigos y lleguen a comprender hasta cierto grado a los Testigos de Jehov, tanto nuestra comunidad asi como el mensaje que llevamos seguir siendo impopular. Eso est escrito en las palabras de nuestro propio Senor Jesucristo. 03/01/2009
Leon Iva
Kharkov, Ukraine
It is very interesting movie about us - JW. Unfortunately we didn't heard about it. I could see the trailer only. Would like to translate it in Russian for ex-USSR territory. What I've seen is honest information. Here in former USSR territory we have the same honest work of Russian specialist in religions. He wrote few books about different religions. Regards 12/05/2008
William J. "Bill" Carruth
Royal Oak, Michigan
I'm a firm believer in the 1st Amendment.But their patently idiotic position on birthdays and other holidays is lightyears beyond nonsense especially when you realize that before 1926 they celebrate all holidays. Then came a Mr. Barbar or Barbour whose spurious research declared that all holidays dishonor God. Which assumes, of course, there IS a God. Furthermore Witnesses sponsor no hospitals, schools, missions, etc. My ex-wife has not celebrated any of our 5 childrens' birthdays in 27 years. So much for the bible and other nonsense. And to this day NOBODY - even Brooklyn - knows who the authors were. The Bible IS "The Greatest Fraud Ever Sold!" 11/13/2008
Alex
Toronto, Canada
Sadly having been married to a Jehovah's Witness I know the real Truth. This religion has brought pain and suffering to many families. The Watchtower is a dishonest sect that tells half truths and often changes when time has proved their predictions wrong. The first Watchtower lie is that a free bible study is being offered. What it ends up being is a book study of this religions beliefs. Once could go on but there are more and more excellent resources that are showing the public that there is much more to this group than can be found between the covers of their publications. One last point is very important. When studying with a prospect the JW glosses over what happens after baptism if one dares to disagree with even the slightest details that they teach. Extreme shunning of family members and friends is the result. They will tell you that it is out of love. The only love in this group is conditonal. Be aware of the truth. The real truth. 11/13/2008
Raven
This was like a breath of fresh air. The minute I typed Jehovah's Witnesses on the internet, I received a flood of hate sites. I have been raised around witnesses my entire life as well. I'm not one myself, due to lack of self discipline, but my experiences have always been wonderful. I don't expect perfection from anyone there, and they don't expect it from me. They are all striving to follow Jesus' example, who was sent by Jehovah God. Friends, please remember that apostates are REAL. They are vicious, and doing everything possible to ensure that you share their hate as well..... 11/02/2008
Steve
Georgia
The Watchtower Society (leadership of the Jehovah's Witnesses), is not a benign religious organization. It denies it's follower's medical treatment (i.e. blood transfusions), resulting in many deaths, including children. And, as a result of the Watchtower Society's/Jehovah's Witnesses shunning practice towards former members (who have left the group, regardless of reason), countless families have been destroyed. Jehovah's Witnesses may very well use subterfuge to try and soften these realities, however the reality of it remains. Anyone who may be interested in becoming one of the Jehovah's Witnesses religious order, should be aware of these and other caveots. 09/26/2008
Shannon
Texas
I remember watching the program a while back. I enjoyed it. What I was hoping the most is that it helps to clear up common misconceptions about Jehovah's people. Although we never claim to be perfect, we follow the Bible as closely as possible and do not change or alter anything it says. It's very encouraging that so many of Jehovah's people have stayed faithful when pressure to take blood. People tell us that we can't think for ourselves-but we can. Jehovah has lovingly given everyone free will and he wants us to obey his commands out of love for him and his righteous standards. By knowing God's standards for life and by knowing what he requires and having faith in the earthly Kingdom to come here on earth, that is true freedom. 09/19/2008
this film is amazig. it's so true i've been raised in the truth and my whole family is.I am 15 and soon hopefully getting bautized. It's the only religion i know and i want to know. this video was very helpful too me, thank you! It made me smile and strengthen me only more!!! And being involed in the association is the best thing for anyone i'm sorry that people feel otherwise... 09/19/2008
Bob Jordan
All organizations are made up of people. I think it looks like lots of people are making bad comments with the outlook that the orginization is a single entity, but its made of many many imperfect people, just like anyone else, who strongly believe in the bible and live by their beliefs, hopefully. Even if any of the harsh sounding things from history some poeple mention are true then its just that, history. And its peoples own fault for making decisions they made or taking somthing that was said by the orginizations leaders the way they did and ending up where they did. Like wise you can't blame every single Jehovah's Witness for bad decisions made by a particular few even if they were "high ranking" (for lack of a better term) members who's bad decisions had unfortunate effects on others. 06/03/2008
The Watchtower organization has brought nothing but pain and sadness to my family. It has not turned out to be what I expected. I regret my association with it. 05/22/2008
THERE IS NO RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION THAT IS PERFECT. No church, no temple, nor any house of worship, here on earth. I scanned most of all the opinions on this sight and realized so many people are so lossed. People are missled and betrayed. Some of the anger seems like that they continue to hold a grudge and just want to vent out without thinking about the big picture(God's plan). Witnesses have faltered, without a doubt(I AM NOT A PRACTICING JW). But so has all other person or organization in this world. Jw's next to the Mormans are probably the best citizens in our communities and yes I know both have done some evil things but I'd rather live next door to either one than any other religion. Jw's beliefs are pretty well founded. I disagree with just a few. But I also disagree with the different beliefs of all religions. We need to stick to the basics(read the book of Genesis). Think about what God really holds out for us. Forget about perfection with religion because nothing in are time will be perfect. God will help. Paradise is not a dream. Adam's faults will soon be forgotten. 04/21/2008
A great film, i truly enjoyed it. I am a Jehovahs witness, and found this film to be refreshing and faith strengthening. Thank you for making it. 02/04/2008
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witnesses and still am to this day at 25 years of age. After reading some of the things that some very angry people have said, it made me want to say something as well. If you were a former witness and have a problem with how a situation was delt with, you are not alone. But remembering that all brothers and sisters are imperfect. We all make mistakes and fall short of the glory of God. If we wait on Jehovah and have faith that eventually Jehovah will make things right, he will. There is no greater truth in this world than what's contained in God's word the bible. We were most definitely made to live on earth forever and rest assured there will come a time where death will be no more. I look forward to that time and hope that some of you change your mind before that time comes. 02/04/2008
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witnesses and still am to this day at 25 years of age. After reading some of the things that some very angry people have said, it made me want to say something as well. If you were a former witness and have a problem with how a situation was delt with, you are not alone. But remembering that all brothers and sisters are imperfect. We all make mistakes and fall short of the glory of God. If we wait on Jehovah and have faith that eventually Jehovah will make things right, he will. There is no greater truth in this world than what's contained in God's word the bible. We were most definitely made to live on earth forever and rest assured there will come a time where death will be no more. I look forward to that time and hope that some of you change your mind before that time comes. 01/08/2008
Shannon
Adrian, MI.
I think this film brought out the basic Bible principles that Jehovah's Witnessess live by. I have been a witness for 12 and a half years. I was not raised in the truth but learned it as I was a teenager. I have not known any other religion except for the Witnessess that could answer the many questions I had about Jehovah God. They never answered me with their own opinion or with a man-made doctrine, but they answered with the scriptures. That is one of many reasons why I am so proud to be a worshipper of Jehovah. 01/08/2008
Shannon
Adrian, MI.
I wanted to make a comment about disfellowshipping. I at one time had made, for myself, bad and harmful choices and had been disfellowshipped. These choices I made would have influenced and harmed other members in my congregation. The elders did what was necessary to protect the congregation from my worldly views. I spent two years after that doing what the world is doing and paying for it with bad health. I finally came to the realization that being one of Jehovah's witnessess and practicing the Bible's priciples is a protection not a stringent hindrance as some people in this blog room have said. I am now reinstated and proud to be an active witness of Jehovah God. 12/17/2007
Your film, Knocking, is the most accurate account of Jehovah's Witnesses I have ever seen! I have been a Jehovah's Witness for 28 years, and I tuned in a quarter of the way through. I knew five sentences in that it was about us. The language that was used, the stories that were told, and the unadulterated true story was so refreshing to someone that is so disgusted with the way we are usually portrayed by the media, Good Job!!!
11/27/2007
I think this was one of the best documetaries ever done. I have read some of the posts on here may of which seem to be from bitter people either given the boot or just bitter because they did not get what they wanted. Either way, this is a DVD that I found interesting and while I will never be a witness, I know from visiting Bethel and in depth discussion with numeroous witnesses that they do their best and answer to no one on this planet. Interesting is all the ex witnesses who decided to leave and now speaking out. Get on with your lives and stop hating it proves nothing!
11/20/2007
It's unbelievable that JWs still deny the Watchtower's membership in the U.N. for about 9 years when it can easily be determined by a quick search and viewable documents. Oh, I forgot, they can't think for themselves and do any research. It's funny to read the stupid back-tracking by the WT trying to extricate themselves from this. They claim they joined only to get a library card to do research in the U.N.'s library, yet a card was never needed for access and all the U.N. material is available from other sources including colleges that are WT's neighbors.
10/03/2007
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
If an employee or a member of Jehovah's Witness who has a long record of exemplary ethics, known to be honest, hardworking, is then falsly accused by a group within the organization that is held in a position of authority(elders, circuit, district overseer) , and suffer punitive damages,loss of health, mental anguish, and economic losses, due to false accusation and unjust treatment, along with psychological trauma, all the while the falsely accused along with others who are close to the situation make vigerous appeals, and offer both evidence, and testimony to the actual facts, that there has been a terrible misunderstanding, and the need to turn it all around, as these accusers will be violating both, state law, and human rights and God's commands.
This mounting evidence, and support from others who are long time loyal, ethical, organization members, then reveal incompetance, unethical behavior, and slander, and lying by the accusers and such behavior is worthy of dicipline and demotion by the organizations' own policies.
But nothing is done, instead the victim of unfair treatment is told to 'just for get about it' or insult the victims intelligence by saying that what they think happend is not as bad as alla that. That they don't usually apologize for these type of things and suggesting May be it was brought on oneself???? that the accused couldn't be completly faultless.
You see its not the organization but some people inside.....As my therapist says perhaps just one who loves power, is dominating the others and who is leading the others to follow his lead and through this structure no one is questioned on this arbitrary injustice, all is done with impunity, and the branch committee neither offers comfort nor apology,( to the victim of these spirited apointed elders) nor acknowlege the pain and suffering. of a fellow christian as though the elders are not capable of behaving this way ..even when a bethelite elder has been recently arrested from Watchtower Farms.
Is this a double standard in progress??? in a work environment is this illegal?? and in a congregation environment isn't this a breach of fidicuary duty( betrayal of trust)????? With accountability for punitive damages??
09/19/2007
take-the-red-pill
texas
Just from watching the clips , I can see the disinformation coming from the WTBTS org. They want you to believe they stand for freedom but in the end you owe your soul to them and can't even speak freely let alone do what you want with your life. The WTBTS has proven through it's history that they are false prophets and to this day will claim a history of accurate prophesy.Their blood dogma is based on old testament law on how to bleed meat so it's kosher and can be eaten . They were racist and merely attempted to come to agreements with Hitler instead of speaking out against the human rights violations taking place .It's all in a document known as the declaration of facts .I kinda wish they would show the film so I can see all the lies perpetrated by the org.
09/19/2007
I am intrigued by these comments. As a former elder, I resigned from the Witnesses due soley to theological disagreements. The Witnesses hold that the Bible is a prophetic book and that Bible charecters such as Noah, Moses, Elijah, and Elisha all prophetically foreshadow the existence of the Witness organization and of the various Presidents of the WTBTS such as Rutherford and Knorr. While any religious group can claim the bible as their own (and frequently do) I came to the conclusion that such "prophetic" claims were false.
There are other tenants though of Witness teachings that are rightly controversial. Blood medicine is one. In the last 15 years or so, the Witnesse leadership have gone to great lengths to say that Witnesses are forbidden to take transfusions of one of the 4 main components of blood: Red cells, White cells, Platelets and Plasma. However, a Witness can make a "conscience decision" to take medicine that are derived and processed from whole blood or one of the 4 components.
This seems to be a paradox. If Witness theology ran the world, then all blood from animals and humans is to be poured out onto the ground, as it is in their view sacred. Thus, blood fraction medicine would not exist. Such is the convoluted thinking that comes from trying to hold an untenable and indefensable position based on an interpretation of 3 or 4 scriptures. Tens of thousands of Witnesses have experienced permanent damage and or death as a result of this debate over blood medicine and their own health care. All because this religion chooses to enforce a bizarre interpretation of scripture.
While anyone is free to believe how they will (and need to accept responsibility for their beliefs,) this is an example of some of the harmful teachings that comes from the Witnesses. The debate isn't about which group of people is nicer or more loving. Many churches in America and all over the world have nice and loving people who welcome strangers. This is hardly the exclusive property of the Witnesses. Rather, this is about the theology of the group, what makes them tick, and whether some of their beliefs are harmful and dangerous.
09/19/2007
Jennifer
PA
John 15:17,18 Jesus said: "These things I command you, that you love one another. If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you." I am a JW and very proud of that. This negative talk about JWs are prophesies only being fullfilled just like Jesus said it would. I am very happy to know that I am a part of this divine truth. The way things are getting in this world you can see all the things that were prophesied coming true. The wars, sickness, crime, violence, bad storms including hurricanes and tornados, old age and death. All the questions for these things are found in the bible. You need someone who can explain all these things to you, and I have found that JWs are the only ones that I KNOW that could answer these for ME.
09/19/2007
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
KNOCKING IS REALLY WHAT JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES ARE ABOUT!!! AS A GROUP ... Even if there are individuals who are not genuine, or change for the worse.. I still have crying melt downs.... I only hope that the organization I have looked up to will see the need for more transparancy with internal congregation matters, because as long as 'individuals deviate with impunity from the the balansed bible based guidelines' either because of incompetence or evil intent, Jehovah is the Judge, so many others will continue to be harmed by those who are either unqualified counselors, or simply have no intentions of following foolproof guiedlines, and add insult to injury by not accepting responsibility for the damage they cause in the position they hold. I am thankful for the medication that helps me function, the therapist, and most of all Jah helping me.
09/19/2007
Dave Brown
Central Point, Oregon
Some have expressed doubt as to whether the leadership of Jehovah's Witnesses is now discouraging Witness youths from seeking higher education. As an example, in 2005, Governing Body member Gerrit Losch spoke forcefully against a college education at an assembly in Monza, Italy which can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R4f9ygxDbk
09/19/2007
Linda Lucier
East Providence, Rhode Island
I was very sad that they actually had to choose whether to save there lives or die because they would not take blood. They were very lucky. I was brought up as a JW they are strick, fill you with guilt, and my mother is a JW and goes to a JW assembly allday on Christmas then comes to my brothers house celebrates Christmas and excepts all gifts same with mothers day ect. I like a lot of what the jws believe and if there is another religion like it but not so demanding let me know Three meetings a week and preaching give me a break talk about controlling peoples lives.
09/19/2007
Linda Lucier
East Providence, Rhode Island
I was very sad that they actually had to choose whether to save there lives or die because they would not take blood. They were very lucky. I was brought up as a JW they are strick, fill you with guilt, and my mother is a JW and goes to a JW assembly allday on Christmas then comes to my brothers house celebrates Christmas and excepts all gifts same with mothers day ect. I like a lot of what the jws believe and if there is another religion like it but not so demanding let me know Three meetings a week and preaching give me a break talk about controlling peoples lives.
09/19/2007
nancy
springfield, ma
Congratulations! for a well done piece. To the disfellowship-We all make personal choices in our lives,good or bad we must learn to live with them. First, we are told what to do, then we are warned what will happen if we brake the rules and principles society (not the watchtower) has established for us, and then we suffer the ramification once we brake the rules. But, in every instance we always tend to blame the person who established the law. Whether is God's law or man's law. What ever wrong you feel it was done to you, as a mature person, you have to decide what you want out life. YOu have to ask yourself, why did you came to serve God, was it because you enjoy socializing with JW's or because you really believe in what you voluntarily accepted to learn from the bible. I don't know of any elder or circuit overseer that has the power to give life and nor do I know of any brother's or sister that can make your life perfect. Look within yourself and ask yourself how have you affected the lives of others, have you ever offended or hurt anyone and feel you have done nothing wrong? If you parents, relatives or friends did not live up to Jehovah's standard, why should you let their non-Christian behavior direct your live and weigh you down. Ask yourself, Were you a hearer or a doer of God's word. How many of the fruitish of the spirit did you apply or were willing to work with? Did you really believe in God's teaching or you decided to serve him out of emotion or to pleased someone? Would you like your children or someone you dearly love to constantly criticize you for your mistakes or do you rather have them approach you and work things out with you? Pointing fingers is not going to solve anything for you. Neither, are you going to stop the work of JW's. This is energy lost that can be use in something positive.YOu might change one or two person's mind or taint their good reputation, but they will continue to grow. not even Hitler could stop them, neither the many trials we all have faced in this depleting world. At the final analysis, only God has the authority to choose whose righteous and whose not. Let him make the decision.
09/19/2007
Karen
Oakdale, CA
I, too, am honored and privileged to be one of the over 6 million Jehovah's Witnesses on the earth today. I want to thank you for broadcasting this program showing Jehovah's Witnesses as they truly are. Thank you
09/19/2007
Laura
Sacramento, CA
I saw this documentary for the first time last night and I must say that I was quite impressed. I was born and raised in the truth and I have been a baptized Witness since the age of 14. The only Jehovah's Witnesses of my family are those of my immediate family. It was difficult at first for my aunts/uncles to deal with parents' new set of beliefs and practices. However, we have come to a point where we "peacefully co-exist" with them. We regularly get together with them, for our social family gatherings, as long as it is not for holiday and/or birthday reasons. Although they do not accept our beliefs, they have come to respect them. We rarely discuss religious issues, unless somebody initiates a question or issue- then we are open to discussing the matter. I hope this film has changed peoples' opinions about JWs (in a positive way). I spend 50+ hours a month going door to door, and I always enjoy finding someone willing to hear what the Bible says.
09/19/2007
Woodland,Ca.
I don't know where the person got the information, but Jehovah's Witnesses do not endorse the United Nations. It is considered to be one of Satan's best tools for misleading mankind into thinking that mancan solve his own problems independent of God. On the U.N. building, Isaiah is quoted, yet it does nothing to encourage the turning of swords into plowshares, in fact it has done only the opposite for most of it's history.
09/19/2007
I am one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I was born and raised as a Jehovah's Witness. As many people have already stated, their have been many things stated in the media that are either extremely biased or just flat out false. This documentary took a very objective look at our lives and our history and the fact that even though we are different we are still human and go through many similar experiences that others do. I cried twice at both stories. It was a faith strengthening film.
8/16/07
Be cautious about forming your opinions regarding the JWs organization, the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (WBTS) based solely on this movie. It shows only one side of the WBTS. It would be great to see a documentary that addresses some of the reasons why many have left the organization and no longer share the WBTS version of the truth. What about the WBTS association with the United Nations? This is not a half truth made up by a bitter apostate. This is a fact. How does the WBTS justify its membership, direct involvement and support of a political organization when it sent many of its own members to their deaths over political neutrality issues? What about the destroyed lives left in the wake of failed JW prophecy? Imagine selling all your belongings or foregoing a higher education, spending large amounts of your time preaching door-to-door, not really thinking about or preparing for your future in this world, waiting for the prophesied end to arrive and then guess what, as that time approaches the prophecy changes as it no longer fits the current times. You are now at retirement age with nothing but social assistance and life is continuing to go on. Where is the WBTS now? Are they going to provide for you in your retirement years?
8/16/07
Special K
What surprises me most is that the WBTS has very little to no response about the writings and comments of supposed apostates. Such brave souls as Ray Franz and Randy Watters as well as many others who choose not to remain silent about the facts. The only response the WBTS makes is to admonish its members (threaten really with disfellowshipping) not to consider any information from would be "apostates" as though it were directly from Satan himself. Why is the WBTS silent? Why is it not unleashing its legal forces? Why do we not hear about law suits against supposed apostates who have slandered the mighty organization? Could it be that there is too much truth in what they say for it to be considered slander?
If anybody would like to know where they can find information about the WBTS, information that the WBTS doesn�t want you to know, please feel free to ask and I would be happy to post some web addresses.
8/16/07
Stacy
I would like to address Jay's comment regarding "2 types of Ex-Witness's 1)The type that isn't bitter, but left because they want to do their own thing, just like Joel. They have a certain respect for the JW's and will defend them or are neutral towards them. I respect there free choice. 2)Then you have the angry bitter people who left, frustrated that they could not live up to the high standards lash out at those that can. It is their way to cope with failure. JW's(Bible) standards are very high, hard to apply all the time."
Actually that's not true. There are many "types" - not simply "2". There are people who are not bitter at all, simply disagreed with the JW interpretation of the Bible and left. Or found out the truth about the history of the organization and didn't want to be part of it and left. It had nothing to do with "living up to high standards." However, JW's have to label these people as "APOSTATES", as Jay does above, so that they can feel justified in classifying them as 'evil' and shunning them.
I know, Jay; I used to have to try to defend and justify JW shunning the way you have to. It's tough to do when you have a conscience. Now I realize "apostates" are actually nice, loving people who can't be hypocritical and support teachings that are false. Their claims are actually backed up by fact, not un-truths, like the JW's version of the history of their religion is.
Joel had nothing to lose: he was never baptised, so he didn't lose his family. I find it difficult to "respect his free choice to do his own thing" when he had nothing to lose. I respect those who HAVE something to lose and still stand up for the truth and their own integrity regardless of the pain it causes them. These are people who cannot be hypocrites and I admire that.
8/16/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
Dave Brown asks: "Many other religious groups find ways to nurture faith for their children in college. Why can't Jehovah's Witnesses do the same? Why stifle a young mind that might want to seek a career requiring higher education?"
Answer: Going to college is almost a guarantee that you will not come back to this religion. College teaches people how to think critically, the need to question and analyze what and why we believe what we believe, how to determine what is fact and what is fictitious. Not everyone who goes to college leaves this organization, but few go to college and stay. Knowledge is power, and this religion is terrified of both knowledge and the power it gives people over their lives.
Many of the comments here by Witnesses serve to demonstrate what an organization that discourages education produces in the way of clear thinking and the ability to express the same.
8/14/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
According to Chuck from Broken Arrow, "apostates," or people who have stopped believing the doctrine as set down by Jehovah's witnesses, compare equally with murderers, rapists, and thieves. I think Chuck demonstrates EXACTLY what is so wrong with this organization. You criminalize those who do not accept the "truth" as you define it. You SAY you are following the Bible, but so do a few other billion people on earth--who all believe differently than you. Because someone doesn't believe that 144,000 is a literal number of people who are going to heaven, he should be treated as a murderer, rapist, and thief? How can you be trusted to speak the "truth" when you use logic like that?
I would just like to say for the record, I have never committed murder, rape, or thievery. I have never been a drunkard nor an idolater. I simply started to believe things that are different from what I used to believe. And in your mind, that makes me no better than a convicted felon.
So you follow ALL of the Bible? Where does it speak of a "Governing Body," or an "Organization" that will act as the mediator between God and humans, dispensing the "truth" when and how they see fit? Why does your doctrine change over the years if it's really the "truth?" How can you disfellowship people who do not believe EXACTLY what you believe today when you know it may be different than what you'll believe tomorrow?
8/14/07
EC
TN
There are a lot of witnesses, who learnt the truth after they examined many other religions. When they start to let others know that they want to become a witness, they face a lot of people, who will tell them all the pros and cons for being a witness �more cons so. When they decide that they still want to become a witness, they go out from door to door. Believe me, that is when you face all kind of reasoning. Following that test of faith they will make up their minds if they really want to get baptized. Nobody is I never had to develop the spirit of rebellion, because whenever I had a question or didn�t come to the same conclusion, there were loving people who took the time to help me understand things I didn�t consider before. Everything is very logic and wise, because it comes straight from the Bible. It is the best thing I ever done. I am so happy to be a Jehovah Witness. Nobody ever needs to be sorry for be being a Jehovah Witness
8/7/07
Jay
Great Movie.
Some negative comments must be addressed. First you will notice there are 2 types of Ex-witness's
1)The type that isn't bitter, but left because they want to do their own thing, just like Joel. They have a certain respect for the JW's and will defend them or are neutral towards them. I respect there free choice. 2)Then you have the angry bitter people who left, frustrated that they could not live up to the high standards lash out at those that can. It is their way to cope with failure.
JW's(Bible) standards are very high, hard to apply all the time.
As for the Apostates, their half-truths taken out context equal whole lie's. It's that old serpent yapping off again, just like he did in the garden of Eden, well we aren't buying the lie, like Eve did.
8/7/07
Brooklyn, Ny
I have seen the film, it was pleasent to see. I am not a Jehovah's Witness, but my family are. My brother was expelled and my sister.They were reinstated.For me, I grew up learning it in spanish, and really did not understand the teaching,because my spanish is not up to date.also i really did not care about it.Well at times my family would preach to me, and i was curious of other religion's teaching's,I did not want to be closed minded,I guess.So i visted a catholic church a pintocostal church, and to be honest, i found it uncomftable,the idols was scary,and it was not educational.So I continued to see more religions being produced by men and woman.So i said to myself let me see what the bibles teaches.The more i learned from the bible, the more i saw these religions that i was looking into was not practicing what the bible teaches.I am currently studing the bible with a Jehovahs Witness, and to be honest,there pretty educational,I saw a comment on jws not wanted a higher education, They are the Higher Education, I see that people are allowing there emotions to stop them from learning, put your emotions to the side and pray for understanding, and the ability to reason. and if you need a hug, I'll give you one, dont allow hate to develope in your heart.I'm 29 years old now, and i guess it took me a while to mature.
8/2/07
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Cor. 5:11-13: which says that a "fornicator, greedy person, or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. ...Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." True, those verses don't mention apostates, but neither are murderers, rapists, theives, and other unrepentant wrongdoers mentioned that OTHER SCRIPTURES DO, also grounds for disfellowshipment! Look for example at 1 Cor. 6:9-11. David only gives a half-picture of the things that can lead to being disfellowshiped. JWs believe strongly that we teach the TRUTH, so with that in mind, what are we to do in view of John's 2nd letter (2nd John 9,10) which states "Everyone that pushes ahead and does NOT REMAIN IN THE TEACHING OF THE CHRIST does not have God. ...If anyone comes to you and does NOT bring this teaching never receive him into your homes or say a greating to him. For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works." So, JWs follows ALL of what the Bible teaches, not just what appeals to each individual! If someone doesn't want to live by those standards--and apparently David does not--then that person can either disassociate himself or be expelled. Jesus said in prayer at John 17:17 "YOUR WORD IS TRUTH". JWs make every effort to live by God's Word, which at times means expelling wrong-doers, protecting the congregation. Reasonable people can see the course of wisdom in doing so.
7/31/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
"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..." What this verse does NOT say is: "Quit mixing in company with anyone who disagrees with YOUR concept of God, or who questions what YOU have said is the 'truth' or who has stopped believing what YOU believe." Jehovah's witnesses put someone who doubts or questions doctrine in the same category as fornicators, greedy persons, drunkards and extortionists.
Thousands of sincere people, who are dedicated to living truthfully have found they are no longer welcome, even as family members, to associate with the Witnesses. Ironically they learned to never back down, never give in to social and emotional pressure to conform to something they believe is wrong from the same organization that now throws them "to the wolves" and uses one of the most hideous forms of emotional abuse to silence them forever... shunning them as if they were already dead. One wonders how they sleep at night when they have inflicted such pain on their own "brothers" ... even their own family.
7/31/07
Alex
Ontario, Canada
I will watch 'Knocking' however I am not expecting much. When a religion that is as controvercial as the Watchtower is, has members writing in to say it was fair, what comes into my mind is that it is not objective. It is too bad that pbs probably did not do the quality work that they did on the Mormon American Experience movie.
7/31/07
Lynn
Omaha, Ne
I see a lot of hateful comments concerning the Jw's. I can only hope that Jehovah relieves your heart from such misery. Jw's in general are loving and happy people. So please don't feel sorry for us. We are people that choose to stay in our religion becuz its rings of truths to our ears. None of the other religions have ever done that to mine before. I was involved in wiccan as my last resort to finding myself..I am so very blessed that I was given the for site to understand that this religion is from satan himself. I denounced everything and burned all books and yes even my book of shadows. I pray to God to give me help, the next day as dawn approached in a park lot called the Kingdom Hall I found myself. I went there in jeans and a tee shirt and was helped by the sisters and brothers. I love Jehovah as the talk that day was about spiritism. Is this the true religion oh yes it is.
7/31/07
Dave Brown
Central Point. Oregon
The "Myth or Reality" section for Knocking on PBS says this about the Witness view of a college education: "Also, the preaching work of Witnesses did not require a college degree, therefore the pursuit of higher education was discouraged.... Now, many young Witnesses attend college." Since 2005, Witnesses are strongly discouraged from seeking higher education. The 2007 District Assemblies contains a lecture entitled "The Superiority of Being Taught By Jehovah" which gives a one-sided, very negative view of higher education. The lecture includes interviews with members who give testimonials how college was really a waste of time and how devoting oneself to preaching door-to-door is a better choice for Witness youth. No allowance is made for those Witness youth who might want to choose a professional career (like teaching, medicine, journalism or law) which would require a university education. Instead, college life is stereotyped as immoral and antithetical to spirituality. Many other religious groups find way s to nurture faith for their children in college. Why can't Jehovah's Witnesses do the same? Why stifle a young mind that might want to seek a career requiring higher education? Aren't there additional ways to serve God than just preaching?
7/31/07
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
Knocking really opens the door, and eys of anyone fairminded, really shows that well founded spirituallity, and non fanatical conviction is what makes a person, and a group worth respecting. I recently was verbally abused by an american circuit/district overseer here in Norway it was shocking, and hurtful, the provacation because I extended an african hand greeting instead of shaking his hand ( which I am a bit phobic about)worst his behaviour before my husband and the then english circuit overseer about the matter was very disrespectful, he reapted over and over you were rude to me, but guess what later when my husband and I called and spoke privately why he apologized, seemingly in tears and explained that he thought I was prejudice against white people,(even though my husband is white)???? however after that episode I was removed as a pioneer reason still "unknown" my point give it time and the truth comes out!
7/25/07
How can anyone say that JW literature does not predict a time when the end of this world would occur. Only someone not familiar with JW dogma would say something so absurd. "Truly I tell you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur" Matt. 24:34. JW's have indentified "this generation" in their very own literature (if you want examples just ask)as those who were alive during the period of 1914 and that they would be alive to see the complete fulfillmet of bible prophecy. It sure sounds like a prediction or "prophecy" to me. It does not surprise me though that they are trying to play this down now as it certainly has not occured and JW "prophecy" about the time of the end has failed yet again.
7/25/07
SpecialK
There is a mass of evidence that would appear to indicate that the JW cult despite their obvious sincerity are grossly mistaken regarding there interpretaion of the bible and its many prophecies. It amazes me that they will automatically out of hand classify anything that disagrees with their point of view as apostate or from Satan. I have never experienced such a close minded group of individuals that appear to be terrified of any thing that does not come directly from their beloved Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. How can any one who is so unwilling to examine all aspects of an issue be certain they have the truth when they only have half the information available. If you are not one of them they will tell you you are unqualified to make any judgements regarding them. If you are one of them or have been one of them and you voice a different opinion you are apostate and expelled. It is a losing battle to even try to reason with such people. I really feel sorry for them. They are so blinded, controlled a nd enslaved by their leaders.
7/25/07
miriam
tampa florida
I JUST ARRIVED FROM A MEETING IN THE KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAS WITNESSES AND AS ALWAYS, I AM OVERWHELMED WITH EMOTIONS AT THE RESPECT, LOVE AND CARING THAT THE WITNESSES SHOW ONE ANOTHER AND THOSE THAT ARE VISITING THEM. I LEAVE EACH MEETING WITH A PROFOUND FEELING OF PEACE. I WAS RAISED A WITNESS AND MY LIFE WAS WONDERFUL. I FELL AWAY AND FOLLOWED THE WORLD AND ENDED UP MISERABLE. I HAVE RECENTLY ONCE AGAIN RETURNED TO JEHOVAS ORGANIZATION BECAUSE OF A GREAT NEED FOR THE BEAUTIFUL TEACHINGS WHICH CAN ONLY BE FOUND THERE AND THE INTERNAL PEACE WHICH NOTHING IN THE WORLD OFFERED ME. I ALSO WANT NOTHING MORE THAN FOR MY INFANT DAUGHTER TO LEARN ABOUT JEHOVA AND LEARN TO LIVE A DECENT, PRODUCTIVE LIFE. I HOPE THAT PEOPLE WILL CONCENTRATE A BIT MORE ON THE MILLIONS OF JW'S DOING GOOD AND LOVING ACTS ACCORDING TO GODS WORD AND NOT CONCENTRATE SO MUCH ON THE FEW WHICH ARE DISFELLOWSHIPPED. AS CHILDREN WE ALL NEEDED DIRECTION, TIME-OUTS AND EVEN SPANKINGS FOR BEING BAD... BEING DISFELLOWSHIPPED IS A TIME OUT FOR OUR OWN BAD DEEDS. HAS ANYONE HEARD OF THE SAYING "ONE BAD APPLE....." HOWEVER, JEHOVA IN HIS INFINATE WISDOM AND LOVE HAPPILY ACCEPTS THESE FOLLOWERS BACK INTO HIS FLOCK ONCE HE FEELS THE TIME IS RIGHT. ONCE AGAIN, LETS CONCENTRATE ON THE GOOD THINGS AND NOT ON THE BAD.
7/19/07
Robert Johnson
Kapuskasing, Ontario, Can
The Jehovah's Witness Organization has not believed at various times that they could designate a time when the "end" was to take place. Matthew Chapter 24 states clearly that not even Jesus would know when that "day" or "hour" would take place. Individuals may have made that mistake but Witness literature does not state that a marked year or a significant year would tell us when the end of this world system of things would end. This is a cruel world... the end of this evil system of things is good news. The end of the wicked rests with God. He does not desire any to be destroyed. Thankyou for your time.
7/19/07
Rita Skeen
Detroit Michigan
I am a jehovah witness and love the way independentlens program was done it made my heart full up whit joy. we do love Jehovah very much. this help people of all races &non witness see how & what we beleave once again thanks.
7/18/07
Alan Owens
My mother and I live near a Jehova's Witness Kingdom Hall. Several times they have come knocking to our house. They were well dressed and civil about knocking. I didn't know that they have taken their uncompromising faith all the way to the Supreme Court.Furthermore, the show gave examples of two families, one a jew and the other a young man whom are uncompromising examples of their faith. The show ended saying that uncompromising faith will be a part of the human fabric; which faith is the question.
7/18/07
I AM NOT A WITNESS...However I was raised as one. I left to do my own thing and not be two faced. I have seen this film in its entirety and feel it was a good documentary on the beliefs of the JW religion. I find it facinating that the new pope Benedict XVI made the following comment to his JW cousin in Australia just after he was installed, "YOU ARE DOING THE WORK WE SHOULD DO...YOU HAVE HALLS THAT ARE NOT TOO BIG, BUT THEY ARE FULL. WE HAVE CATHEDRALS, CHURCHES, CHAPELS AND THEY ARE EMPTY." She said that while her religious differences with the families had caused frustration the Pope had encouraged her for following her faith. Read about Nelson Mandela's sister's funeral and how he commented on the beautiful ceremony and how he appreciated the witnesses. She was one. I went to see the convention 1st in a longtime and found it a more loving group of people then ever before. For whatever may have been taken as one being wronged before in this organization I can say it is in Jehovah's care. Please quit quoting Raymond Franz's books he has come back to the JW's now. Yes anyone can change. Many are coming back that I never in my wildest dreams imagined would. And yes I have seen the pieces of texts of apostate literature...misquotes all fashioned in a sublte manner of bitterness made to seam real.
7/12/07
Steve Kelly
Halifax, Canada
Open minded individuals wanting an unabashed look inside the JW cult should consider „Falling in Truth, The Education of a Jehovah‚s Witness‰. It‚s a must read. It provides an accurate and truthful look inside the JW cult, what they believe, how they live, how they deal with on another and what they think about those outside their organization. This free on-line book along with a number of other related discussions and forms can be found at http://www.geocities.com/loyal2truth/index.html . Of course any JW‚s knee jerk conditioned response will be „APOSTATE‰ demonstrating one of the control techniques the „Governing Body and „The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society‰ uses to keep its membership in submission. To truly understand the JW cult one must be willing to consider information presented by those outside of the JW organization (many of which have first hand experience having been members themselves at one time or another). The „Governing Body‰ and „The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society‰ along with its member „Jehovah‚s Witnesses‰ have proven time and again that it can not be trusted to provide a truthful unbiased accounting of itself. Consider the information and draw your own conclusions. This is a privilege not to be taken lightly as there are those who do not have the freedom to ask questions without the threat of retaliation, public reproof (disciplinary action) and ultimately disfellowshipping (excommunication).
7/12/07
I saw the story on witnesses and political neutrality. I was wondering if this same group that produced the "knocking" documentry could also do a documentry on the witnesses involvment with the United Nations.
7/12/07
Leaving the JW group on any grounds is typically dealt with by disfellowshipment (AKA excommunication) of the one who leaves. To the uninitiated who may read here within this forum and these pages know this. If you become a Jehovah‚s Witness and subsequently indoctrinate your whole family into it, if you ever decide to leave the JW group, you risk loosing your entire family via the JW shunning practice. It happens all the time. Buyer be ware.
7/10/07
My suggestion is to write a letter to the elders one more time prior to the next circuit overseer's visit and hand it to one of the elders on your committee. If you get the same response, and you believe the response is unwarranted, then write a note to the CO and hand it to him early in his visit. Lay it all out for him concerning your repentance and the length of time that has passed as you have in your post. He will likely bring it up during the meeting with the elders that week. You have only given one side in your post. Of course, we don't know the whole story as to why the committee is hesitating. It may be the seriousness or the notiriaty of the offence. It's good you are taking all the right steps.
7/10/07
EC
Tennessee
In response to comments made on 6/11 and 6/14: For a broken leg I don�t go to the dentist, but I don�t go to any bone doctor either. We all have a system by which we trust and inspect. My system does not include people I never met like those on the internet.
There are people whose advise I take under consideration because they have earned my trust. Somebody who can hide or deceive behind the anonymity of a message board can not show me like someone who shows up on my door what kind of person he/she is. When I walk into their workplace or get invited to meetings to get to know co-workers or friends of a person, can see the interaction among them, and see the result of their work, I might get the impression that this person has nothing to hide, is proud of their work, co-workers, and friends.
Last not least, I never walked into any business or doctor office to ask for the enemies of this business. I assume they have nothing good to say about them. However, I do ask the friends of a business what the shortcomings are, and that helps to pursue with caution. And if a pre-owner would be so happy with a product, he would not sell it. However, I do ask people who keep on buying the same product for decades why they do it. And if their experiences meet my needs or wants, I most likely will look into it.
7/10/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
"The shunning prctice JWs perpetuate on former JW members (following the instruction of the Watchtower Society or JW Headquarters)..." It's THE BIBLE that instructs true Christians. "Headquarters" just follows through with what the Bible teaches. 1 Cor. 5:11-13 says: "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. ...REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES." JWs choose to follow what God's Word instructs. We obey God rather than allowing our emotions to interfere with clear Scriptural teaching, rejecting what we personally don't agree with.
You also said: "Try walking a mile in the shunned person's shoes and then see how philosophical you are." I have walked in those shoes. My daughter was disfellowshiped several years ago, but happily reinstated later. Yes, it was a difficult time for the family, but we remained steadfast and loyal to Jehovah, and she benefitted from it, remembering Heb. 12:5,6,11: "My son, [or daughter] do not belittle the discipline from Jehovah, neither give out when corrected by him; for whom Jehovah loves he disciplines...true no discipline seems for the present to be joyous, but grievous; yet afterward to those who have been trained by it, it yields peaceable fruit, namely righteousness."
7/10/07
Mario
Sugarland, TX
In answer to Joel's question "What role do you think religion and religious freedoms should play within civic society? Jesus Christ clearly stated what role his true followers would play within the society. His words on Matthew 22:39 says: "You must love your neighbor as yourself." Also, religion should really play a crucial role in loving God. Jesus' words on Luke 10: 27 says: "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole strength and with your whole mind." Years after Christ's death and resurrection, Apostle John clearly stated the inseparableness of these two commandments given by Christ. 1 John 4:20, 21 states: "If anyone makes the statement: �I love God,� and yet is hating his brother, he is a liar. For he who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot be loving God, whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him, that the one who loves God should be loving his brother also." Can you not see world peace and harmony if all mankind obediently subject to these two greatest commandments?
7/10/07
WR
I would just like to say that disfellowshiping is not what many have described on this forum. according to the scriptures which is what Jehovahs witnesses beliefs are fully based upon;during this time one is spiritually sick. Think of it this way; you have a bad relationship with your Father, and you decide to never speak with him again. But after a while you realize that you need him in your life. Wouldnt you want quality time with your father? Thats what that time is for to heal your relationship with God. This is the true meaning of desfellowshiping as set out by the scritures. it helps us to remain clean even though we sin. Those who donot understand this donot understand the Bible. Hope this helps explain a little.
7/5/07
EC
Tennessee
Somebody on this board keeps repeating himself that Jehovah Witnesses get rejected by 99% of the world. I would like to get this person and his readers to think about the following: In order to reject something it has to be offered or made available to you. Jehovah�s Witnesses belong to the very few religions, who go from door to door. I think they are the only ones who do it world wide all their live as a Witness. Read Matthew 7:13,14 where it states: �Go in through the narrow gate, because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.� For me that explains the 99% real well.
7/5/07
Some of these anti Jehovah Witness people don�t make any sense to me. For me they sound like immature teenagers: �I hate Jehovah Witnesses because they don�t want to do what I want them to do. I want them to act the way I think they should and I want them to love me for being such a control freak. They can�t be right because I want to be therefore they have to be quiet.� Make your own organization, club, or society and see if you get about 7 Mill members together living organized in harmony together. And if you do you have nothing to badmouth the Jehovah Witnesses about because you have all you need to be happy since you feel better. I have checked out other religious organizations. I never found one with that many members in that many languages that organized that you can ask them in as many languages you speak the same question and get the same answer in their own words. All the other religions I know are quit different in that matter. Their spiritual leaders have all their own opinion and can�t agree on anything much less in different countries all over the world.
7/3/07
Jon
National City, Californiabr
hello I am disfellowshipped and I feel so discouraged at times as I repented 4 didtrict assemblys ago and made all the meetings, rain or shine asked to be reinstated 6 times and each time they change there viewpoint on me and now they said it was my posture and attitude not my actions i wish someone here with authority could take up my case as I know this is the truth and want back in but I feel so misunderstood or cared for. i can be reached at jwjlb@yahoo.com please no apostates thanks.
7/3/07
O.S.
Ontario
I think the whole point of this video was to point out the impact Jehovah's Witnesses have had on society. It is obvious from the comments that the impact is profound. If they are so backwards and wrong, why is this organization still growing? (Over 235 lands with membership at almost 7 million). Jehovah's Witnesses are not out for a popularity contest, they are living to do God's Will. The watchtower society is a legal entity not their leaders. Jesus Christ is their leader. Jehovah's Witnesses use scripture to interpret scripture, they do not claim infallibility. So criticize all you like...Very soon, the whole matter will be settled by Jehovah God. Only then will we know who is right and who is wrong.
Keep checking your faith ...1 John 4:1
7/3/07
Steve Lowry
Chuck said: I'm at a loss to see where I have "supported hatred. Please tell me where I am "supporting hatred." I don't hate anyone, not even ex-JWs. If one is disfellowshiped, I follow the Bible's direction not to associate with them, but that doesn't mean I "hate them". You've got that wrong!
Me: When a (JW) family member disowns a (former JW) family member, what appreciable difference is there if there is actually hatred behind the act or not? The result is the same. If I shoot you because I hate you, or I shoot you because I feel I am doing the so-called right thing, you�re just as dead. The shunning practice JW�s perpetrate on former JW members (following the instruction of the Watchtower Society or JW Headquarters), has destroyed countless families and has shattered an untold number of lives. It�s easy to be philosophical when you�re doing the shunning. Try walking a mile in the shunned person�s shoes and then see how philosophical you are.
7/3/07
marta
vancouver
Many ppl have posted comments that are completly inaccurate. For accurate information about Jehovah's Witnesses and our beliefs , please visit our official website www.watchtower.org . Anyone of Jehovah's Witnesses would be happy to explain our beleifs, using the Bible. You wouldnt go to a Catholic to learn about Buddhism, would you?
7/3/07
Shane
I am really amazed at the kind of hatred that is cast towards this group of people.....including on this forum. I feel it seeping through many of the written words here. I finally got a chnce to see the additional features on the dvd and they are cmpelling. Every religion has their tenets, so why cast hate towards a group that does not impose their tenets on others....it appears to me that they merely try to inform...it is up to us to decide what we do with that information. Just say 'no I don't agree with you'...Interestingly the jewish professor said that he did not care for the pacifism of the JW's, because pacifism would not have defeated Hitler....I understand why he said that....but I don't think people get the point that 'if EVERYONE behaved like the JW's, there would be NO WARS...can many religions say that? For me that says it all....how can I hate a people who would never attack me for my views or my way of life, even if they disagree with what I am?
6/26/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
How many have died needlessly because they refused to take a blood transfusion? 1,000? 10,000? Jehovah's witnesses are willing to put their minor children and themselves at risk of losing their lives over a couple of passages in the Bible--passages that are so vague and subject to such a wide range of interpretation that few if any other Christian religions can come to the same conclusion.
When we consider how many men, women, and children died in Malawi because they were told they could not buy a political identification card, and yet Jehova�s witnesses in Mexico are permitted to bribe government officials to get out of serving time in prison for refusing military induction, could we say that they have been unified and consistent in applying doctrine and policies?
Combine this with the practice disfellowshipping people in order to keep them in line, and then cling to this practice, deluding themselves into thinking it is an act of love, when clearly the psychological brutality is overwhelming to the point that families and life long friends are torn apart, some committing suicide because of it, then I think they are very near if not deep inside cult territory.
6/26/07
Nathalie
Bremen, Germany
today was the first time i heared something about this movie. I want to see it too but it isn't in the german cinemas. It is a great feeling to know that i have so many brothers and sisters around the world.
6/26/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
To Faith: There must be two "Faiths" on this forum, or there is a mistake on one of them. This is addressed to the "ex-JW". You said: "As far as comments from Broken Arrow [that would be me] supporting hatred and a judgmental attitude with Scriptures does not make you better than anyone else." I'm at a loss to see where I have "supported hatred" or portrayed a "judgmental attitude with Scripture". I certainly don't think I'm "better than anyone else", I'm just trying to serve Jehovah and stand up for TRUTH regarding Him and his witnesses from false claims and untruths from opposers on this forum. Those who make statements without supporting evidence.
Please tell me where I am "supporting hatred." I don't hate anyone, not even ex-JWs. I've always believed that no one should be forced to be a part of any religion, Catholic, Protestant or JW and I certainly don't "hate" anyone who differs with our beliefs. If I hated non-JWs, I certainly wouldn't spend time trying to help them understand the Bible.
If one is disfellowshiped, I follow the Bible's direction not to associate with them, but that doesn't mean I "hate them". You've got that wrong!
Also, please tell me what I said that was "judgmental" and what was said to make you think I'm portraying myself to be "better than anyone else". Please don't make accusations without backing them up.
6/22/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
To Victor--Torrance--5/24/07; Although it's been a year Since you were baptized, Welcome to the most wonderful worldwide family on earth who truly love their brothers and sisters! Your brother, Chuck.
To NJ on 5/29/07: I'm so proud to be your spiritual brother! You are a great encouragement! I too will put my whole strength into being "faithful until the day I die."
To Sandmadd, 5/27/07: I'd love to have persons of another faith come to my door to discuss the Bible. I would not consider that an intrusion at all! That's never happened except for Mormons. I've had some great Bible discussions with them, and I welcome anyone who believes their religion is "True" to come to my door. I would never treat them unkindly as so many others have treated JWs. JWs do not encourage people to read "another holy text" rather than the Bible. Our literature is designed to help people understand the Bible and is considered Bible aids, and nothing more. We do not consider them "holy" or "inspired". Are you getting JWs confused with Mormons who DO consider the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, Doctrine and Covenants, and even the Constitution of the United States as "Inspired"?
6/22/07
Faith
Houston, TX
My CATHOLIC family disowned my 2 year old daughter and I when I became one of Jehovah's Witnesses at 33 years of age. After much personal Bible study I came to recognize the truth. The Catholic church, among others were never able to answer my questions FROM THE BIBLE. Jehovah's Witnesses did. They used MY Bible translation to do it. What a fair depiction your movie shows. Many people think Jehovah's Witnesses break up families. The opposite is true. I know many people who have become witnesses and their families no longer want anything to do with them. Jehovah God loves families. So do Jehovah's Witnesses, we just want them to respect our right to worship in our way as we respect them to worship their way. Usually the holidays are the biggest problem. Why not everyone right now take the opportunity to look up the origins of Christmas, Easter etc and see what YOU come up with. Again, thanks for the honest depiction.
6/22/07
Faith
Houston, TX
To Steve Lowry, I want to personally thank you for so eloquently trying to explain to those who are closed minded why some JW, such as myself, have left the organization. Those who chose to leave for SCRIPTURAL reasons and not reasons of immorality are hated and judged by active JW as apostates. They just assume that we did something bad. In the 3 years that I have left � no one had ever bothered to contact me to ask me why I left. What about the scripture which states a shepherd will leave his 99 sheep behind to find the one that is lost? Obviously what is preached is not always practiced. What is sad is that JW are not using the term apostate correctly. I left because I do not answer to a MANMADE organization. My love, honor and respect for Jehovah has grown a thousand percent since I left (does that sound apostate?) I feel closer to him now than I did when I was a JW. As far as comments from Broken Arrow, supporting hatred and a judgmental attitude with scriptures does not make you better than anyone else. THAT is apostate. You need to remove the straw from your own eye so that you can see the hatred that you spew.
6/14/07
Monroe
Joel and Tom Thank You for all your hard work.I personally would like to see your excellent work continue.I have read all 19 pages of peoples comments and I noticed that several people feel that the "more important issues" were not addressed in your previous documentary,so I went and did some research myself on these "issues" and so far I have'nt found much of what is being said by them to be accurate,so I feel that another documentary might be the answer to help clear up some of the negative,and to be honest,hateful comments being posed against JW's.So I would like to see the following "issues" I researched addressed:why JW's beleive shunning and disfellowshiping is scriptural and also the families that have gone through this experience and do these families find this teaching unscriptural, and, if so, please state scriptural basis for said belief;Why JW's view blood as sacred/holy and why they do not take blood transfusions? and please cover the pros and cons of following this scriptural teaching. Also, please address the comment being made that the JW organization at one time belonged to the U.N. I would be very interested in viewing your final documentary. Thank you again and looking forward to seeing the sequel.
6/14/07
Steve Lowry
You: “Let us open up the following topic for discussion . . . can anyone explain . . . why it is that . . . (JW’s)
are consistently spoken of in malevolent terms?” (hyperbole omitted)
Me: Perhaps you should be asking YOURSELF this question? It may have to do with the Watchtower Society’s ban on blood transfusions that have and do kill JW’s and JW minor children. Most people in a civilized society take a poor view of children dying unnecessarily because of being refused medical treatment; regardless of so called religious rationale. Or perhaps it’s the real life side of the JW experience and practice of shunning that destroys families when JW’s disown family members who make the decision to leave the (JW) group? It could also be the many failed/false predictions of the end of the world (as we know it) made by the Watchtower Society. These are few reasons why people may speak of Jehovah’s Witnesses in malevolent terms, as it were.
You: “One does not see a dentist to set a broken leg. For accurate answers, one goes to the source.”
Me: A smart consumer seeks out current AND previous owners of a product, before making the purchase.
6/28/07
It seems that this movie has brought some issues to the forefront, so I would like to add my comments. Although I have not yet seen the movie I feel qualified to comment on the issues brought up because I was in the �organization� (well-involved) for about 30 years, after which I voluntarily left because I no longer believed in a number of their teachings or understandings, not because I had an issue with any individuals.
I can truly sympathize with most �Witnesses� because I believe that most of them are very decent, well-meaning individuals who are really looking for something better in life and the future. However soemthing which bothered me very much was the absolute control over these same individuals that is excercised by the headquarters in Brooklyn. It�s one thing to be motivated by Love to do something, and it�s quite another to be motivated by fear (disfellowshipping and shunning, destruction at Armaggedon, uncertainty about yours or your family�s future, etc.). Active �Witnesses� will deny this publicly, but Brooklyn does rule by fear (1 John 4:18).
I am now associated with the Bible Student movement (not JW�s, NOT extinct) and truly understand the Love of God in much different way than the �Witnesses� believed it. I know that Jesus Christ died for ALL men, not just the �Witnesses� (Heb 2:9; John 3:16, 17). And I learned the actual history of the organization in the late 19th and early 20th century.
Nevertheless there are some truths still taught by the �Witnesses�, such as the coming millenial Kingdom, and the resurrection of the dead. And when these things occur, they will be surprised by WHO will be there.
6/28/07
When you say you've always believed that "no one should be forced to be a part of any religion, Catholic, Protestant or JW," but then turn around and say you refuse to associate with anyone who's been disfellowshipped and is now an ex-JW, which one are we supposed to believe? Actions speak louder than words.
You certainly don't understand the psychological brutality that so many have gone through when they are disfellowshipped (I am not but that will probably change because of my posts here) and lose everyone they have ever known or loved, including grandchildren, children, parents, brothers and sisters, simply because they have changed their religious ideology. You view and treat them the same as drunkards, idolaters, fornicators and adulterers.
6/28/07
Looking forward to seeing Knocking, I have a question how are individual witnesses helped, on those occasions when they have been 1)subjected to psychological abuse of power by body of elders where the superior scriptural guidelines, provided by the governing body have been, misapplied, or willfully ignored and caused debilitating harm? by unjust loss of priveledges, or verbal abuse by Circuit overseers? I know personally of two cases, and several others indirectly, the case I know of personally the individuals were able to recover with help of other elders, who spoke up for, and bravely pointed out the error of the offending elders within governing body guidelines, and validated the victim and were supported to continue faithful service, some others faith wises were 'extinguished' not so good,... when doctors have to get involved the victim must defend Jehovah's organization while giving useful information to get help. 2) What exactly is the authority, and submission that elders require?
6/28/07
P. Vasiliadis
Thessaloniki, Greece
I bought the DVD "Knocking" and watched it carefully. I belong to a 3d generation family of JW's at Greece. I believe that this film was a really ballanced attempt to describe some aspects of JWs' way of life and beliefs.
I think that religion should be a matter of personal choice. Religious discussions should be encouraged between people but religious matters should not mixed with state desicions or laws. State has its role and Religion its own. Civic society should protect every religion and not engage or "use" any of them.
According to my experience, families with members that belong to different religions can survive peacefully but this is not the easiest thing. I think that co-believers' families are more happy and successful.
The film made known to the public a part of things that should be known about JW's. The flooding of notorious comments concerning the blood transfusion stand and the so-called molestation matters at internet are targeting to spoil the peaceful and law abiding reputation o f this Christian community.
6/12/07
Iowa
JW's are the only religion that has proven throughout history that they will not surrender their faith, and they will absolutely not allow any unclean conduct to infiltrate into there organization, hence the disfellowshipping. Check out this link if you want to know the truth about why JW's do disfellowship. http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/1988/4/15/article_01.htm They are also the only religion that is completely united together, like one big brotherhood. You can go to any Kingdom Hall in the world and find the most loving and caring individuals there, that will treat you with upmost respect, and give the shirt of there backs for you. You will also not find any different teachings from Kingdom Hall to Kingdom Hall, because they all teach the same thing. Also they are the only individuals that will sacrifice there time, there energy,and there material resources to follow Jesus command to teach others about him. They are the only religion that truly love people as Jesus did and that feel that the Bibles message has enriched there life so much that they want to share it with you, so you can find the secret to a happy life and posses it to. If you don't want this for yourself then respectfully tell us to leave the next time we come to your door, and we will do so, more than likely with a friendly smile and a have a nice day. If it is something you do want for yourself,why not take a few minutes and see what JW's are really about next time they are at your door!
6/12/07
I have noticed that even with the hate that has been shown by people of other beliefs and religions the J.W's. have not shown any hatred back to them. As far as the UN is concerned that is not true. They are not true documents. The J.W's. won't even comment on such a flat lie. It is not even worth taking the liers to court to prove it.
Sister
6/12/07
Robert J. Furlan
Jefferson, OH
The person who questioned Jesus' account of Lazarus in Hades needs to understand this. Alexander the Great conquered and left Greek culture behind in Israel about 325 BCE, and so the Jews learned pagan Greek religious ideas, such as Hades as an afterlife, which is not otherwise addressed in scripture. Jesus knew that his listeners understood this afterlife concept without accepting it. He used the account of Lazarus and the rich man as a parable in the midst of 15 parables (from Luke chapters 13 through 19)metaphorically to describe the refusal of the Pharisees to recognize Him as the Messiah. But he was not endorsing the pagan concept of afterlife. Hades is the only Greek word that describes the condition following death, but literally means the grave.
6/11/07
John K
I thought this was a very interesting film. I am not one of jehovah's Witness but have family that are. I feel in no way left out or shunned by them, we are a very close family and they have just found what works for them. Interesting comments...I cant imagine the pain, heartache of being "shunned" or being an "unbeleiving" mate..or risking your life for blood. However you have to admit that this system does work and keep the organization successful compared to decrease in members of other churches. could it be God who knows? If we are reasonable we can admit the Bible IS strict compared to morals today. I think maybe they are just trying to do whats right. Which is never easy or popular. Thanks for the inside look.
6/11/07
Let us open up the following topic for discussion: can anyone explain, free from bias, opinion or emotion, why it is that a group of people who teach doctrine and principle from the scriptures, try hard to live by the example of Jesus, dont smoke, abuse alcohol or drugs, will not take up arms (that is, they refuse to kill), are uninvolved in the politics that divide entire populations, refuse to pledge their allegiance to anything other than God himself, abide by the law, are completely unified in teaching, friendly, respectful, peaceful, considerate and loving are consistently spoken of in malevolent terms?
These are good things, right? Any group calling itself Christian that was able to achieve these things should be the envy of all of the world's religions.
To those who aim to impede others from learning the truth: you prove scripture and by doing so, strengthen the faith of many. (See John 15:18, 25) Your doing so will draw people who say to themselves Why do people roll their eyes when any one mentions Jehovah's Witnesses?!
Jehovah is looking for honest-hearted people. (John 4:23) These will be drawn to the aforementioned qualities.
If you have read what the web says about Jehovahs Witnesses, I invite you to speak with any one of them and then compare that person with the insidious characterizations described there. Do they match what you read?
One does not see a dentist to set a broken leg. For accurate answers, one goes to the source.
6/11/07
WA
Well done!
To Vallejo, CA thank you for your comments(John 13:35) "By this all will know that YOU are my disciples, if YOU have love among yourselves"
Thank you,
Dream
6/11/07
Sarah
Tennesee
I found this film to be very interesting! I have known of JW's for years but I learned and developed a much greater appreciation for this group of people from this film.
I am very appreciative and impressed with their historical influence in Nazi Germany as one of the first non-jewish religions to speak out against the atrocities occurring (as well as becoming martyrs). I appreciate the sacrifices they made to help to strengthen freedom of religious practices/speech. I am impressed with the strength of their convictions for what they believe - even when faced with inevitable persecution.
6/11/07
Donna
Maryland
To: Shane I was deeply encouraged to read your blog. I am a regular pioneer and search for people like you every day who have an open mind who are willing to discuss their viewpoints with me. What you wrote was beautifully said and I am sure that Jehovah's angel will direct someone to your door soon. I wish it could be me. Take care.
6/11/07
Adel, IA
I loved the program. It showed from a non witness point of view what we JW's deal with on a daily basis. As far as the family that had the "bloodless surgery" this was their choice based on info they believed to be acceptable to the guideline from the scriptures. There are JW's that would not even contemplate such a surgery because of the blood involved be it their own (never leaving the body with the aid of machines)or someone else's blood. The point is that even JW's are people of free will able to make thier own choices. Because they are JW's they do their very best to follow the scriptual councel to the best of THEIR ability. Jehovah himself will be the ultimate Judge....for their individual actions.
6/11/07
Steve Lowry
On (JW) disfellowshipping. Every human being,no matter the religion, prac-tices some form of shunning. For example;if you're a parent & your child's bestfriend goes on your internet and watches pron,smokes pot,drives drunk w/your child,what would you do?
Followers of the Watchtower Society, (AKA Jehovahs Witnesses) often attempt to make the worst most possible negative comparisons in their imaginations to try and legitimize the Watchtower Societys shunning practice, regarding former members. This very typical kind of comparison infers that former JW members must all be social degenerates (porn watching, pot smoking, drunk drivers), in its example. It excludes completely all those who have left the Watchtower organization due to scriptural or philosophical reasons/disagreements. The cult mentality teaches that the ONLY reason a member could possibly leave they group is because of some great sin in the former members life. However, many people leave the Watchtower Society every year due to such things as, the Watchtower Societys inane ban on blood transfusions, peculiar and heretical biblical interpretations, the flip-flopping of major (JW) doctrine, and the lack of personal freedoms imposed on the followers of the Watchtower Society, by Watchtower Society. Countless families have been destroyed and individual lives shattered due to this kind of cult protectionism mechanism (shunning). It serves to keep the masses ignorant of the outside world and of reality.
6/11/07
My wife is a JW who erred by getting involved with an unbeliever 26 years ago. She says it was the best err she has made in her 60 years. This film just scratched the surface of the conflict this religion causes among families. The real story should be how they try to become your friend and slowly get you to study with them. Ive done it many times over the years and Im amused over how the brother conducting the study has experienced the same things I have gone thru in my past. Its almost uncanny, like a script to get into your confidance. Then steer you from what you know to replace it with their more accurate knowledge. I have just one question that no one can answer yet and it is kind of simple if you believe the bible word for word without any books on the side. True or False Hades is a place of torment. Answer False. If Hades is not a place of Torment, then why did Jesus used this statement in his parable of the Rich man and Lazarus At Luke 16:23? According to all Watchtower books this was explained in 1935 leaving 1900 years of people being misled by Jesus own words
6/11/07
Dallas, TX
Your Film was magnificent, you did an outstanding job. I truly believe that if the entire world had the mindset of a true JW, he world would be a much better place to live. Until that time we can only hope and pray for a better tomorrow. Thanks for doing great Job!
6/11/07
EB
Mississauga, Canada
First, thank you for trying your best to reflect some of what JW's are all about. Jesus said, you will know my disciples, if they have love amongst themselves. This is my experience. My congregation is made up of many people of many nations - Arabs, Dutch, Greeks, Jamaican, Trinidadians, English, Indian, Pakistans,French, German, Phillipinos, Chinese, to name some. Nationality does not come into our thinking or teaching - We are all God's Children with a Promise. The head of our Congregations is Christ Jesus - all responsible elders know this. Jehovah is the only true God and has put Jesus to oversee the preaching of the Good News. This realy is GOOD NEWS if only people would listen - it is life saving work. If this good new falls on good hearts (good soil) it will take root but it is God who makes it grow. JW's do this work out of love for Jehovah and neighbour, it is hard work and is done voluntarily - no one gets paid. We received free and we must want give free. Many religions have tried to do this work - we do it because of a direct command by Jesus Christ himself, we are successfull because of the Holy Spirit or active force, that Jehovah bestows upon this work. The Truth will set you free - give it a chance and you too will get to know Jehovah and what the Bible REALY teaches.
6/11/07
breanna newcomb
fortsmith, arkansas
my name is breanna and i am one of jw's. my goal in life is to preach the good news of the kingdom to eveyone i meet the majority of my family are witnesses. we enjoy the assosiation that we get at the halll and the brothers in the video were back by millions of witnesses all arounbd the world because we are all a united brotherhood. thatnk you for the video it showed more than what people assume!!!!!!!!!!!!
6/11/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Most negative comments here by opposers of JWs are the same 4 or 5 one-sided criticisms, showing they've read the SAME apostate literature against JWs. These persons claim "Knocking" didn't show "the other side," but the literature they parrot shows only ONE SIDE--the apostate author's! They've made statements without supporting evidence. Obviously some have had limited, or no real association or knowledge of us, other than what they've read in hate literature. For those who really are baptized JWs, and have left, they should critique us Scripturally, rather than judge an entire worldwide religion by their own alleged "bad experience", or by the actions of a few who may not have lived up to Scriptural standards. Have these looked at themselves as to whether or not THEY have lived up to these standards? Being honest about it, perhaps this is why some are no longer JWs. Most people who know Jehovah's Witnesses: relatives, neighbors, work or schoolmates, acquaintences, know better than to swallow what our opposers dish out. They aren't fooled by these collective rantings! Wouldn't it be better to use one's time more productively, helping others learn about the wonderful future Jehovah has in store for people who love and obey Him, than to rant and rave against JWs? If these ranters believe they have the truth, then THEY have the responsibility to "preach the good news of the kingdom" worldwide before the end of this system of things, as Jesus said would be done. (Matt. 24:14).
6/11/07
I thought the film was a very good Witness it was such a good Witness it received a lot of lovely comments as well as hateful comments by people with other beliefs and other religions who are unable to defend there own beliefs and doctrine. As a Witness I have come acrossed this so much in my ministry and even though some have said very untrue things about J.W's. (Untruths being said about J.W's. envalment with the UN) The TRUTH is still being preached through out the earth. I have also noticed that the J.W's. have not sunk to there level exchanging hateful words back to them. The fact is that when our doctrens wear taken to the U.S. Suprem Court by the Clergy at the time this was taking place J.W's. were able to prove there doctrine to be skriptual as well as backed up with historical facts of evidence of true Cristian. When the Clergy was asked to prove there doctrens wear skriptual they stormed out of the court rooms unable to defend there own beliefs and doctren. My qustion is. If they were unable to def end them selfs to the U.S. Sueprem Court how will they defend them selfs later to God. If people go to war because King David fought holy wars of God then they are diciples of King Davids. They are not diciples of Christ Jesus. If true Christians are fellowing in Jesus foot steps and trying to live buy his example because he commanded his desiples too live that way, then how are we being unchristian? If you are not sure of what that "way" is then read the books of Matthew, Mark, Luck and John.
6/7/07
Michigan
On disfellowshipping. Every human being,no matter the religion, prac-tices some form of shunning. For example;if you're a parent & your child's bestfriend goes on your internet and watches pron,smokes pot,drives drunk w/your child,what would you do?According to the former JW's TYPE OF LOGIC the parent should do nothing.Personally I would talk to the child and his parents and if the child has no desire to work on these problems then I would not want my child to hang out with him any-more. Will this child be upset? Probably.But it is the right thing to do.Hopefully over time they will miss their friends and realize how selfish and wrong their actions were and change their life. Disfellowship-ping and shunning are scriptural. You'll find it,just read the Bible.
6/7/07
Has anyone stopped to contemplate the destruction that the JW movement has made on families and the impact that that has had on innocent people? I'm talking about a spouse who "gets involved" and sucked in by the slick and very calculated methods. I'm not saying that JW's are "bad people" but they certainly have a "mission" to recruit as many "converts" as they possible can without regard to the impact and devastation they leave in their wake. I am personally "living" this hell right now and have come to realize that unless I "want to know the truth" and follow my husband, I am destined to live in a marriage "alone" or leave. I have asked the JW's to help me understand how they support "interfaith" marriages and how others make their marriages work in similar circumstances. To no avail. They are either unwilling or unable to and I now see that unless I follow my husband into their faith I am but a "nothing" just to be ignored. They couldn't give a crap about how I feel or my concerns. I have my own faith and have no intention of converting, however, I see that unless I do I am only an "opposing mate" whom will eventually (or hopeful on their part) go away. How sad that this "documentary" didn't get in deep on this side of the issue. There are hundreds of thousands of stories out there that could be told about this side of the issue.
6/7/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
JW's use the excuse that "we're just imperfect humans" to explain the outrageous blunders the Society has committed over the years. Case in point: During the late 1960's, JW's in Malawi died by the hundreds, perhaps thousands, thousands more were exiled and lost everything because they wouldn't sign a card that affiliated them with a political party. The human suffering was horrible. JW's teach that the "seven headed, ten horned Wild Beast" of Revelations that is ridden by the "Great Harlot" of false religion is symbolic of the UN and its predecessor the League of Nations. Yet the Governing Body, for ten years quietly signed an agreement EVERY YEAR with the UN that they would uphold and promote the mission and policies of the UN. For this agreement, they became a UN Charter Member with NGO status. When the report of this agreement broke in the British press in 2001, the Society withdrew their membership within 24 hours. For ten years, the Watchtower Society themselves became the "harlot" riding the "wild beast." This cannot be excused by saying that the men at headquarters are just "imperfect." This was a deliberate, willful act, repeated over and over every year from 1991 to 2001, and was the same kind of alliance for which your brothers and sisters in Malawi and numerous other countries sacrificed their lives to avoid. This is just one controversy that was absent in "Knocking." When will JW's respond to this hypocrisy?
6/7/07
Vallejo, CA
I am not one of JWs, but am very encouraged by JWs. Alot of ppl out there are too quick to judge when something seems out of the norm. The minute a JW makes a mistake, my goodness, the whole organization must be out of wack. Out of the millions of JWs worldwide, how can you conclude that the organization is faulty or wrong when the men/women who are in opposition are imperfect as well as those who are a part of it. We know that whatever religion you are, humans will continue to be imperfect. They will always have something to say. God however remains perfect with those who continue tobe obedient to him. We all want peace and hope, order and happiness correct? But the problem, most of us are too self-centered and independent to work for it cause it's too demanding of our time and effort. It's easier being accepted by what is "normal" because we'd rather be accepted by ppl who honestly don't care about what we "really" stand for w/e the issue may be. The message is simple, "everlasting life" your choice no one else's. The fact that we have that opportunity because of what Jesus and his father did on our behalf... shouldn't the standards be high? I commend JWs for their bravery amidst all the controversy, despite the hate they receive from the general public for not getting the facts straight. Then again Jesus was persecuted and also criticized by ignorant ppl. If everyone liked the JWs then we'd really have to worry. I hope I can be just a brave to "fear God rather than men..." who have nothing better to say because they think they know better.
6/7/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Thank you for correcting me. It should have been 2 John 10, not 1 John 9, which didn't make sense anyway because there are only 5 chapters in 1 John. I must differ with you. 2 John 10 DOES apply to JWs' teachings. The main thrust of John's first two letters is Jesus' commandment to Christians to love their brothers, as well as confessing Jesus Christ as having come in the flesh. JWs teach both things. Please read 1 John 3:10-15, and 23, and then 1 John 4:2,3,15,20,21. In context John seems to be emphasizing Jesus' command given at John 13:34,35, and John 15:12: "This is my COMMANDMENT that you love one another just as I have loved you." I took nothing out of context when quoting 2 John 10. Adding verse 9 and 11 to it we read: "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 who has both the Father and the Son. If anyone who 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." So from both 1st and 2nd John, Jesus' teaching refers to his commandment to love our brothers, as well as confessing Jesus as having come in the flesh. Read 1st and 2nd John again, along with John 13:34,35 carefully. You will see for yourself that I took nothing "out of context."
6/6/07
Searching
California
Alot of ppl out there are too quick to judge when something seems out of the norm. The minute a JW makes a mistake, my goodness, the whole organization must be out of wack! Out of the millions of JWs worldwide who "try" to do what is right according to Bible principles, how can you conclude that the organization is faulty or wrong when the men who are in opposition are imperfect as well as those who are a part of it. We know that whatever religion you are, we will continue to be imperfect. We will always have something to say. We all want peace and happiness correct? But the problem, most of us are too self-centered to work for it cause it's too demanding of our time and effort. It's easier being "normal" because we'd rather be accepted by ppl who honestly don't care about what we "really" stand for w/e the issue may be. The message is simple, "everlasting life" your choice. Shouldn't the standards be high due to the fact that Jesus gave his life on our behalf? I commend JWs for their bravery amidst all the controversy, despite the hate they receive from the general public for not getting the facts straight. Then again Jesus was persecuted and also criticized by ignorant ppl. If everyone liked the JWs then we'd really have to worry. I hope I can be just a brave to "fear God rather than men..." one of these days.
6/5/07
I think it's amazing how Jehovah's Witnesses had won the right to publically preach for every other religion on the face of the earth and yet they are the only ones doing it.How can these other religions be so critical? They have the same right to preach THEIR beliefs but they choose not to. We're just trying to give people hope and obey Jesus command to "preach the Kingdom in all the earth."
6/5/07
Elle
While I'm glad the Thomas' survived their respective surgeries. Frankly, I was truly appalled that the Jehovah's Witnesses think so little of life that they would even put people in this position. If they are taking 'fractions' taken from whole blood donations - then they ARE taking blood, period! Call your local blood bank, and ask the how many units of whole blood it typically takes to make up just one unit of allowed fractions - the answer will astonish you!
6/5/07
Travis Bush
What a joke that movie was! Do the Witnesses really believe that the "bloodless" liver transplant was really "bloodless"? One look at the piece of liver that was to be transplanted tells us it was full of blood, which reinforces what I know to be true. Jehovahs Witnesses all over the world live in some great delusion that avoids the facts and ends up in the death of gullable followers every single year. As well, there is no mention of the lengths they go to to silence their critics and those among them that are interested in something that actually resembles the truth. One of their favorite words is apostate, which they claim is inspired by the bible, but is in fact merely a substitution for the word hypocrite in their New World Translation. The movie merely reminded me that their entire organization is rife with those that would subvert the teachings of Jesus and do harm to their own members. Hypocrites and apostates the lot of them.
6/5/07
EB
Mississauga, Canada
First, thank you for trying your best to reflect some of what JW's are all about. Jesus said, you will know my disciples, if they have love amongst themselves. This is my experience. My congregation is made up of many people of many nations - Arabs, Dutch, Greeks, Jamaican, Trinidadians, English, Indian, Pakistans,French, German, Phillipinos, Chinese, to name some. Nationality does not come into our thinking or teaching - We are all God's Children with a Promise. The head of our Congregations is Christ Jesus - all responsible elders know this. Jehovah is the only true God and has put Jesus to oversee the preaching of the Good News. This realy is GOOD NEWS if only people would listen - it is life saving work. If this good new falls on good hearts (good soil) it will take root but it is God who makes it grow. JW's do this work out of love for Jehovah and neighbour, it is hard work and is done voluntarily - no one gets paid. We received free and we must want give free. Many religions have tried to do this work - we do it because of a direct command by Jesus Christ himself, we are successfull because of the Holy Spirit or active force, that Jehovah bestows upon this work. The Truth will set you free - give it a chance and you too will get to know Jehovah and what the Bible REALY teaches.
6/5/07
Michigan
In answer to the question about homosexuality: Unless a person is a dedicated, baptized member of the congregation they cannot be disfellowshipped. When a person gets baptized they meet with 3-4 elders and go over quite a list of scriptural questions. It must be THEIR idea to get baptized and the elders try to make sure this is THEIR decision. When they take this step it means they CHOOSE to serve Jehovah, being obedient to the scriptures. Joel did not make this dedication nor was he baptized.
However, your question is not without merit. Jehovah's Witnesses are very careful of their "association" in obedience to the scriptures that they do so. We feel we are all sinners, and we knock on the doors of ALL people knowing that they are such. In this case, Joel, as one who was raised a witness but did not make a dedication, his decision to do this film is a mystery to me as well, although I appreciate the way in which it was done. I felt it fairly depicated our faith, withough prejudice or bias on h is part. If a person is baptized and subsequently disfellowshipped for unscriptural behavior, he can always return to the elders for counsel and spiritual help, repent and hopefully return to the congregation, regardless of his sin. It is my hope all who view this film who are in this situation will do so.
6/4/07
Michele Cooke
Bumpass, VA
Comments regarding 'Knocking'-- Enjoyed the program. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses I wondered what the 'take' on Jehovah's Witnesses would be...positive or negative. I found the program tastefully done; and it should prove quite informative for those who know little about our Christian faith. Thanks for airing it.
6/4/07
EAN
BRIGHTON, UK
Im sure that you will choose not to post this comment, however I hope that in the interests of free and unbiased reporting you will consider posting it at least. According to my own independant research I am lead to believe that Joel Engardio and Tom Shepherd are both gay men, which is not an issue other than that I find them strange bedfellows with Jehovahs Witnesses, considering the views of the Watchtower Society on homosexuality.The point I am attempting to make is that I too, much like , Joel Engardio was raised a Witness and because I was baptised at aged 16 , being a very impressionable teenager at the time and struggling with a gay sexual orientation I was subsequently disfellowshipped and shunned. My question therefore is this, why are so may Witnesses praising the film makers even interacting with them on a public platform yet shunning others who have been disfellowshipped for living the same lifestyle.I find the Watchtowers double standards in this regard hypocritical to say the least !
6/4/07
amanda
ft myers, FL
I am a Jehovah's Witness and I appreciate this film, yes many times our religion is misunderstood. Taking the time to listen to our beliefs instead of 'fearing' the unknown. Gods Word, the Bible can only be accepted by a humbled heart. All things commanded of us are only for our benefit. Ask yourself, why are there so many different religious beliefs? to stand out as different, one who "obeys God rather than men", and to serve with Jehovah "who desires all to be saved". I make the dedicated choice to serve with all my brothers and siters worldwide unitedly!!
6/4/07
Sanger, Ca
In all fairness Chuck... you are actually quoting 2John verse 10 NOT 1John 9. 2John 10 is NOT referring to Watchtower doctrine. The bible is correct and you must not take scripture out of context and twist it's original meaning to support Watchtower dogma. Read the context Chuck! You will see in verse 7 that John is referring to people denying Jesus coming in the flesh. Apostates in general don't have a problem with that. The film did an accurate job but not a complete job.
6/4/07
Recently on Jeopardy, one of the questions was "What is the most accurate translation of the Holy Scriptures?"
No one got the correct answer, so Alex Trebek said "New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, printed by the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society."
6/4/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
To Chuck of Broken Arrow, OK.: Thank you for your kind words, I appreciate your thoughts. I am not disfellowshipped nor have I disassociated myself. For the most part, I do not feel shunned by my family. Many of my former friends however are afraid of being in my presence, and some family members have stopped inviting my wife, who is still a Witness, and me to family functions. That doesn't bother me. It's their prerogative, but I think it demonstrates how fearful Witnesses are of those within their ranks who have questioned doctrine and policies, who have gone where the investigation has taken them.
I have told a few people about the web site of the United Nations so they could see for themselves the UN's own documentation that the Society was for ten years a Charter Member of the UN, agreeing to support its purpose and its policies or to read a British newspaper article (The Guardian) who first broke the story. Is it apostasy to show people a news article or an official UN statement that answered thousands of inquiries from other Witnesses? They fear any controversial information about an organization they believe is directed by Jehovah. If indeed they have the truth, what is there to fear? And why are they constantly reminded from the mother organization to ignore these well documented controversies? Why hasn't the Watchtower Society ever come clean about thier involvement with the UN?
6/4/07
JPW
West Coast
B First off, great film that I continue to share with the friends, I own the DVD. I highly recommend it. The speical features are great
Now responding to Moshe 2 negative posts, there was a third that I think got the wrong name on it by accident.
Immediatley after reading both these posts based on what you were, and what you have decided to do, 1 Cor. 15:19 the last few words of the verse were brought to my mind. Sorry, but it is, what it is.
6/4/07
I think that this documentary was good; it did what it was designed to do. It put some lesser known facts about JW's into the public eye. Although many of the doctrines were not discussed, I believe that this opens the door to many opportunities for discussion. And it made a good point: JW's are just regular people. We are not perfect by any means. Some of are on our way in and just learning, some are unfortunately on their way out because they don't want to learn any more. For more of us, we are trying to mold our personalities to be more Christlike. This is not a perfect organization. And for those looking for the perfect one..you won't find it. But our directors(Jehovah and Jesus)are. Any JW will tell you, from experience, sometimes you hurt those you love most. That's wehere forgiveness comes in to play. Also just to respond to one of the comments: there are many Jews that have converted. I know of two personally.
6/4/07
I wanted to respond to some of the negative things posted. I was a JW back in the 70's. To date, I have never known of any date when the world was going to end...although there have been special pivotal years in these last days(e.g 1914 christ' enthronement and 1975 probably end of the 6000 years since Adam's creation) those dates don't give us a date as to when the 'world of mankind' will experience Armageddon. What we do know is that we are definitely living in the last days fortold in the Bible(you don't even have to be religous to see this); the evidence is all around us(even Catholics and Baptist will admit this point). And soon very soon, this world will see dramatic changes. As to who will survive Jehovah's day, only Jehovah and his Son Jesus know that info not any of us and it's unconscienable that anyone should judge another...lest we be judged also. But this is a serious thing for all, it involves our very lives now and our personal futures. Whatever obstacles whether emotional mental, etc. we need to focus on the more important issues. Jehovah's sovereignty, not our own. We humans get too bogged down with our own problems in life, and tend to forget we are tiny spects of life on this illustrious planet. Just food for thought. And just to add if any human dictated what I was to think or not think, I wouldn't follow them....
6/4/07
I am currently disfellowshipped from JW and although I take full responsibilities for my actions I also felt that the elders did not understand the full extent of my issues. However, I do not hold this against the entire organization. We are all human and the elders have made an effort recently to assist me and understand my condition in which I am grateful. Some may say this is the opportunity to investigate other faiths, but other so called Christian religions are just simply hypocritical and are just mere social clubs. If the disfellowshipping practice were implemented there would be no one left including the ministers in a lot of cases. Overall JW's are just concerned about your salvation. That's the bottom line.
6/4/07
Great show,
I thought it was a fair and reasonable depiction of Jehovah's Witnesses.
I enjoyed it very much!!!!
6/4/07
C M O
LA, CA
b Thank y both filmmakers and PBS.
But sadly, there is so much hate reflected on commentaries of non- and ex-JW's. How can you accomplished any good from resourcing onso much hate? Nothing good can come up from bad. The origin of hatred is Satan the Devil.
What is so interesting to me, among all this negative is, there is NO JW going to any forum, try stop any protest, interrup any meeting or service, ect... attacking anybody with truths, half-truths or straight lies in an effort to bring down any religion or political establishment of any type, that we formely affiliated with. WE know that we just need to 'get out of her' Jehovah will take care of ALL false religion and Satan'system.
What does this say about all of you that speedily do all you can to bring down the good reputation of JW and the Worldwide Organization?
6/4/07
Erika
Cypress,TX
i am proud 2 be one of the 6 million Jehovah's Witnesses that there are today! and i would like to thank the producer of this show!
6/4/07
Shane
I have listened to family and friends and I have always ran these people off my steps.
Now I finally know why they are hated soo much.....it is because they stand by their principles, actually believe in their faith that does not change to the dictates of our permissive society.
I still don't think I'll ever become one, but I will never chase them from my door again as long as they are willing to hear my point of view and have a civilized discussion.
I think a great point has been missed by many....being a zealot (fundamentalists)as they are can be a good thing. I'd rather have a zealot JW in my neighborhood than another religious group that will cut my head off if I don't accept their faith.
I'd definitely rather you TALK my head off all day, than TAKE it off in violence.
Imagine the kind of world we would live in if everyone refused to go to war with one another. Is it possible that these JW's have stumbled upon the solution to world peace? I doubt it, but I guess unless I ask them their views I am still judging in ignorance.
This should be interesting the next time they show up at my door. Thanks to Independent Lens for providing me with a relative objective look at a people I have refused to give the time of day.
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8/8/2010
Ziddina
Denver, CO
People occasionally jump into a religion in much the same way that impulsive people leap headlong into a marriage - without looking first. When job-shopping, I look up the names of the prospective companies on the Internet, along with the term "lawsuits"... I was amazed at what was revealed about four of my prospective employers - and decided NOT to apply, based upon what I read... As for researching the Jehovah's Witnesses, why not go down to your local Kingdom Hall and ask to see ALL of their OLD literature - and to peruse it at your leisure, either in the Kingdom Hall or at home... It would be most revealing if the Jehovah's Witnesses refuse to allow you this simple request...
5/8/2010
Fresno
Don't listen to apostates. Everybody who reads these but especially our brothers and sisters reading these posts. They have chosen to go the other way which is their decision, it is a decision which Jehovah himself has allowed. But rather than keeping that to themselves and going on with their lives, they let hatred and violence build up in their hearts for Jehovah's people and they do whatever they can to stumble us, to weaken our resolve. These are not people we can afford to be baited into an argument with, they have no interest in our well being. When you see a post that is riddled with apostate language, please brothers and sisters, flea from it. And on the other hand turn it into a positive, if they didn't believe in their hearts that this is the Truth, then they would go on about their lives but they persist because they are afraid of the implications of the course they have taken. Does this remind you of anyone brothers and sisters. Keep on the watch. Keep Jehovah's day in mind, it will be here soon.
5/3/2010
Ruth E. Piller
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
May I suggest a sequel to Knocking, which I own,and love. A 2nd documentary on the work J.W.'s do in the field of relief. Our work is never made known, or seen, but you won't believe your eyes if you see what we are doing in Haiti, Chili, Etc. Etc. around the world. Not just for our brothers but for all comers,as possible and practicable. It would make an incredible follow-up to Knocking. Please follow up on this suggestion the world needs to know much more about our organiztion. Thanks, all of you.
4/28/2010
Wendy
Vancouver, BC
its about time there was a documentary that shows jehovahs people with truth, when u see all the people that hate jehovah on here it doesnt surprise me, jesus did say they will hate you and lie about you.,,i have a question for other people that say they believe in god.why do u worship the cross.what jesus died on doesnt matter, if he was stoned to death would you have a rock around your neck and a bolder on top of your church. it is jehovah that the witnesses worship , matthew 4;10 is just one example,
05/18/2009
Aurora, CO
I only glanced at 1/3 of the posts below, but thought it worthy to mention that JWs do not ONLY think that being gay is wrong. They think it is just as wrong to have sex outside of marriage if you are heterosexual. Also, my daughter got baptized at 11, then left the organization. Jews bar mitzvah at 13, don't they? Loyalty is a forgotten value, but what distinguishes us as an organization is that we believe that Jehovah is earth's sovereign-therefore has the right to set the standards of right/wrong. After one accepts that, as she was mature enough to do, then rejects that, we cannot condone. No organization would. If you were a college student, decided that the teacher was wrong and put different answers on the test than what the teacher taught, or cheated, would that org. not reject you as a member? Standards are standards. Parents send their children to their room for unacceptable behavior all the time.
JWs encourage education to learn a trade w/o the time/$ investment college requires. I have no college, my sister has a B.A. She just quit her corporate job to do what I do for a living. She still has a student loan 25 yrs later.
05/12/2009
I was witness for the first 22 years of my life and it wasn't until I was disfellowshipped that I started to do serious research into JW history that I realized how misguided they are as an organization. It's not the rank and files' fault. The leadership have created this religious authority that is so much like the religions they detest. Only serving to control it's members and imposing itself on peoples' consciences. They say the light continually get's brighter for them in that they continually change their views when they see fit. Charles Russell who founded the original group said that "religion is a snare and a racket, the bible will be the only guide you will ever need." I wonder what Brother Russell would say today? Read: "Crisis of Conscience" and "In Search of Christian Freedom" by Ramond Franz a former member of the governing body and learn the real truth!!
04/24/2009
Melanie
Charleston, SC
Please google-- JW's stance on organ transplants: at first you could not have them, now you can. JW's stance on blood transfusions: at first no blood, now blood fractions are acceptable. JW's cover up of child molestation.
The biggest lie- only unrepentant sinners are disfellowshipped.
WRONG-- I repented but was still disfellowshipped. I did not choose this religion, I was born into it. My parents guilted me into getting baptized at the young age of 11. I was too young to make such a serious decision. Jesus didn't get baptized until he was 30, but JWs guilt pre-teen children into getting baptized before they can fully understand what that means.
I was told not to go to college because Armageddon would come before I graduated. Well, that was over ten years ago and now Im stuck in a dead end job living pay check to pay check, because I dont have a college degree.
Thanks, Watchtower and Bible Society!
And you know plenty of people in the organization right now who are struggling, barely making ends meet because they didn't get a college degree, based on the advice from the society, you know this is true. Millions now living will never die!
Rutherford - 1918
04/02/2009
myrtle beach, sc
I am glad that someone has thought it well enough to draw attention to the wonderful work of this organization. Because this world exudes a "fun first" and "morals later" many times Jehovah's Witnesses are attacked for pursuing good moral conduct. To many it is restricted and thus when things are moving smoothly as they follow good standards but "look out" as it seems at the rest of the world, they feel as if they are missing out and decide that being a Witness is not for them. Truth is,they have a choice. This Jehovah's Witnesses strongly believe since God himself has given all a choice. Thus their religion is forced on no one but is free for those pursuing righteousness, that is from God's viewpoint.
03/28/2009
Y. Derrell
Palmdale, CA
Knocking - Hello I am one of Jehovah's witnesses and found your film very enlightening, especially for those who have misconceptions about us. I heard the interview with Terrance Howard and was wondering when similar films on JWs will air. These are very educational. Thanks 03/23/2009
Juan Carlos Madrid
Santiago de Chile
Excelente Documental! Muy equilibrado y apegado a la verdadera historia de los Testigos de Jehov. Soy uno de ellos y creo que Engardio hace un trabajo muy profesional y serio, imparcial y realista. An cuando este Documental "Knocking", haga reflexionar a muchas personas no Testigos y lleguen a comprender hasta cierto grado a los Testigos de Jehov, tanto nuestra comunidad asi como el mensaje que llevamos seguir siendo impopular. Eso est escrito en las palabras de nuestro propio Senor Jesucristo. 03/01/2009
Leon Iva
Kharkov, Ukraine
It is very interesting movie about us - JW. Unfortunately we didn't heard about it. I could see the trailer only. Would like to translate it in Russian for ex-USSR territory. What I've seen is honest information. Here in former USSR territory we have the same honest work of Russian specialist in religions. He wrote few books about different religions. Regards 12/05/2008
William J. "Bill" Carruth
Royal Oak, Michigan
I'm a firm believer in the 1st Amendment.But their patently idiotic position on birthdays and other holidays is lightyears beyond nonsense especially when you realize that before 1926 they celebrate all holidays. Then came a Mr. Barbar or Barbour whose spurious research declared that all holidays dishonor God. Which assumes, of course, there IS a God. Furthermore Witnesses sponsor no hospitals, schools, missions, etc. My ex-wife has not celebrated any of our 5 childrens' birthdays in 27 years. So much for the bible and other nonsense. And to this day NOBODY - even Brooklyn - knows who the authors were. The Bible IS "The Greatest Fraud Ever Sold!" 11/13/2008
Alex
Toronto, Canada
Sadly having been married to a Jehovah's Witness I know the real Truth. This religion has brought pain and suffering to many families. The Watchtower is a dishonest sect that tells half truths and often changes when time has proved their predictions wrong. The first Watchtower lie is that a free bible study is being offered. What it ends up being is a book study of this religions beliefs. Once could go on but there are more and more excellent resources that are showing the public that there is much more to this group than can be found between the covers of their publications. One last point is very important. When studying with a prospect the JW glosses over what happens after baptism if one dares to disagree with even the slightest details that they teach. Extreme shunning of family members and friends is the result. They will tell you that it is out of love. The only love in this group is conditonal. Be aware of the truth. The real truth. 11/13/2008
Raven
This was like a breath of fresh air. The minute I typed Jehovah's Witnesses on the internet, I received a flood of hate sites. I have been raised around witnesses my entire life as well. I'm not one myself, due to lack of self discipline, but my experiences have always been wonderful. I don't expect perfection from anyone there, and they don't expect it from me. They are all striving to follow Jesus' example, who was sent by Jehovah God. Friends, please remember that apostates are REAL. They are vicious, and doing everything possible to ensure that you share their hate as well..... 11/02/2008
Steve
Georgia
The Watchtower Society (leadership of the Jehovah's Witnesses), is not a benign religious organization. It denies it's follower's medical treatment (i.e. blood transfusions), resulting in many deaths, including children. And, as a result of the Watchtower Society's/Jehovah's Witnesses shunning practice towards former members (who have left the group, regardless of reason), countless families have been destroyed. Jehovah's Witnesses may very well use subterfuge to try and soften these realities, however the reality of it remains. Anyone who may be interested in becoming one of the Jehovah's Witnesses religious order, should be aware of these and other caveots. 09/26/2008
Shannon
Texas
I remember watching the program a while back. I enjoyed it. What I was hoping the most is that it helps to clear up common misconceptions about Jehovah's people. Although we never claim to be perfect, we follow the Bible as closely as possible and do not change or alter anything it says. It's very encouraging that so many of Jehovah's people have stayed faithful when pressure to take blood. People tell us that we can't think for ourselves-but we can. Jehovah has lovingly given everyone free will and he wants us to obey his commands out of love for him and his righteous standards. By knowing God's standards for life and by knowing what he requires and having faith in the earthly Kingdom to come here on earth, that is true freedom. 09/19/2008
this film is amazig. it's so true i've been raised in the truth and my whole family is.I am 15 and soon hopefully getting bautized. It's the only religion i know and i want to know. this video was very helpful too me, thank you! It made me smile and strengthen me only more!!! And being involed in the association is the best thing for anyone i'm sorry that people feel otherwise... 09/19/2008
Bob Jordan
All organizations are made up of people. I think it looks like lots of people are making bad comments with the outlook that the orginization is a single entity, but its made of many many imperfect people, just like anyone else, who strongly believe in the bible and live by their beliefs, hopefully. Even if any of the harsh sounding things from history some poeple mention are true then its just that, history. And its peoples own fault for making decisions they made or taking somthing that was said by the orginizations leaders the way they did and ending up where they did. Like wise you can't blame every single Jehovah's Witness for bad decisions made by a particular few even if they were "high ranking" (for lack of a better term) members who's bad decisions had unfortunate effects on others. 06/03/2008
The Watchtower organization has brought nothing but pain and sadness to my family. It has not turned out to be what I expected. I regret my association with it. 05/22/2008
THERE IS NO RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION THAT IS PERFECT. No church, no temple, nor any house of worship, here on earth. I scanned most of all the opinions on this sight and realized so many people are so lossed. People are missled and betrayed. Some of the anger seems like that they continue to hold a grudge and just want to vent out without thinking about the big picture(God's plan). Witnesses have faltered, without a doubt(I AM NOT A PRACTICING JW). But so has all other person or organization in this world. Jw's next to the Mormans are probably the best citizens in our communities and yes I know both have done some evil things but I'd rather live next door to either one than any other religion. Jw's beliefs are pretty well founded. I disagree with just a few. But I also disagree with the different beliefs of all religions. We need to stick to the basics(read the book of Genesis). Think about what God really holds out for us. Forget about perfection with religion because nothing in are time will be perfect. God will help. Paradise is not a dream. Adam's faults will soon be forgotten. 04/21/2008
A great film, i truly enjoyed it. I am a Jehovahs witness, and found this film to be refreshing and faith strengthening. Thank you for making it. 02/04/2008
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witnesses and still am to this day at 25 years of age. After reading some of the things that some very angry people have said, it made me want to say something as well. If you were a former witness and have a problem with how a situation was delt with, you are not alone. But remembering that all brothers and sisters are imperfect. We all make mistakes and fall short of the glory of God. If we wait on Jehovah and have faith that eventually Jehovah will make things right, he will. There is no greater truth in this world than what's contained in God's word the bible. We were most definitely made to live on earth forever and rest assured there will come a time where death will be no more. I look forward to that time and hope that some of you change your mind before that time comes. 02/04/2008
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witnesses and still am to this day at 25 years of age. After reading some of the things that some very angry people have said, it made me want to say something as well. If you were a former witness and have a problem with how a situation was delt with, you are not alone. But remembering that all brothers and sisters are imperfect. We all make mistakes and fall short of the glory of God. If we wait on Jehovah and have faith that eventually Jehovah will make things right, he will. There is no greater truth in this world than what's contained in God's word the bible. We were most definitely made to live on earth forever and rest assured there will come a time where death will be no more. I look forward to that time and hope that some of you change your mind before that time comes. 01/08/2008
Shannon
Adrian, MI.
I think this film brought out the basic Bible principles that Jehovah's Witnessess live by. I have been a witness for 12 and a half years. I was not raised in the truth but learned it as I was a teenager. I have not known any other religion except for the Witnessess that could answer the many questions I had about Jehovah God. They never answered me with their own opinion or with a man-made doctrine, but they answered with the scriptures. That is one of many reasons why I am so proud to be a worshipper of Jehovah. 01/08/2008
Shannon
Adrian, MI.
I wanted to make a comment about disfellowshipping. I at one time had made, for myself, bad and harmful choices and had been disfellowshipped. These choices I made would have influenced and harmed other members in my congregation. The elders did what was necessary to protect the congregation from my worldly views. I spent two years after that doing what the world is doing and paying for it with bad health. I finally came to the realization that being one of Jehovah's witnessess and practicing the Bible's priciples is a protection not a stringent hindrance as some people in this blog room have said. I am now reinstated and proud to be an active witness of Jehovah God. 12/17/2007
Your film, Knocking, is the most accurate account of Jehovah's Witnesses I have ever seen! I have been a Jehovah's Witness for 28 years, and I tuned in a quarter of the way through. I knew five sentences in that it was about us. The language that was used, the stories that were told, and the unadulterated true story was so refreshing to someone that is so disgusted with the way we are usually portrayed by the media, Good Job!!!
11/27/2007
I think this was one of the best documetaries ever done. I have read some of the posts on here may of which seem to be from bitter people either given the boot or just bitter because they did not get what they wanted. Either way, this is a DVD that I found interesting and while I will never be a witness, I know from visiting Bethel and in depth discussion with numeroous witnesses that they do their best and answer to no one on this planet. Interesting is all the ex witnesses who decided to leave and now speaking out. Get on with your lives and stop hating it proves nothing!
11/20/2007
It's unbelievable that JWs still deny the Watchtower's membership in the U.N. for about 9 years when it can easily be determined by a quick search and viewable documents. Oh, I forgot, they can't think for themselves and do any research. It's funny to read the stupid back-tracking by the WT trying to extricate themselves from this. They claim they joined only to get a library card to do research in the U.N.'s library, yet a card was never needed for access and all the U.N. material is available from other sources including colleges that are WT's neighbors.
10/03/2007
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
If an employee or a member of Jehovah's Witness who has a long record of exemplary ethics, known to be honest, hardworking, is then falsly accused by a group within the organization that is held in a position of authority(elders, circuit, district overseer) , and suffer punitive damages,loss of health, mental anguish, and economic losses, due to false accusation and unjust treatment, along with psychological trauma, all the while the falsely accused along with others who are close to the situation make vigerous appeals, and offer both evidence, and testimony to the actual facts, that there has been a terrible misunderstanding, and the need to turn it all around, as these accusers will be violating both, state law, and human rights and God's commands.
This mounting evidence, and support from others who are long time loyal, ethical, organization members, then reveal incompetance, unethical behavior, and slander, and lying by the accusers and such behavior is worthy of dicipline and demotion by the organizations' own policies.
But nothing is done, instead the victim of unfair treatment is told to 'just for get about it' or insult the victims intelligence by saying that what they think happend is not as bad as alla that. That they don't usually apologize for these type of things and suggesting May be it was brought on oneself???? that the accused couldn't be completly faultless.
You see its not the organization but some people inside.....As my therapist says perhaps just one who loves power, is dominating the others and who is leading the others to follow his lead and through this structure no one is questioned on this arbitrary injustice, all is done with impunity, and the branch committee neither offers comfort nor apology,( to the victim of these spirited apointed elders) nor acknowlege the pain and suffering. of a fellow christian as though the elders are not capable of behaving this way ..even when a bethelite elder has been recently arrested from Watchtower Farms.
Is this a double standard in progress??? in a work environment is this illegal?? and in a congregation environment isn't this a breach of fidicuary duty( betrayal of trust)????? With accountability for punitive damages??
09/19/2007
take-the-red-pill
texas
Just from watching the clips , I can see the disinformation coming from the WTBTS org. They want you to believe they stand for freedom but in the end you owe your soul to them and can't even speak freely let alone do what you want with your life. The WTBTS has proven through it's history that they are false prophets and to this day will claim a history of accurate prophesy.Their blood dogma is based on old testament law on how to bleed meat so it's kosher and can be eaten . They were racist and merely attempted to come to agreements with Hitler instead of speaking out against the human rights violations taking place .It's all in a document known as the declaration of facts .I kinda wish they would show the film so I can see all the lies perpetrated by the org.
09/19/2007
I am intrigued by these comments. As a former elder, I resigned from the Witnesses due soley to theological disagreements. The Witnesses hold that the Bible is a prophetic book and that Bible charecters such as Noah, Moses, Elijah, and Elisha all prophetically foreshadow the existence of the Witness organization and of the various Presidents of the WTBTS such as Rutherford and Knorr. While any religious group can claim the bible as their own (and frequently do) I came to the conclusion that such "prophetic" claims were false.
There are other tenants though of Witness teachings that are rightly controversial. Blood medicine is one. In the last 15 years or so, the Witnesse leadership have gone to great lengths to say that Witnesses are forbidden to take transfusions of one of the 4 main components of blood: Red cells, White cells, Platelets and Plasma. However, a Witness can make a "conscience decision" to take medicine that are derived and processed from whole blood or one of the 4 components.
This seems to be a paradox. If Witness theology ran the world, then all blood from animals and humans is to be poured out onto the ground, as it is in their view sacred. Thus, blood fraction medicine would not exist. Such is the convoluted thinking that comes from trying to hold an untenable and indefensable position based on an interpretation of 3 or 4 scriptures. Tens of thousands of Witnesses have experienced permanent damage and or death as a result of this debate over blood medicine and their own health care. All because this religion chooses to enforce a bizarre interpretation of scripture.
While anyone is free to believe how they will (and need to accept responsibility for their beliefs,) this is an example of some of the harmful teachings that comes from the Witnesses. The debate isn't about which group of people is nicer or more loving. Many churches in America and all over the world have nice and loving people who welcome strangers. This is hardly the exclusive property of the Witnesses. Rather, this is about the theology of the group, what makes them tick, and whether some of their beliefs are harmful and dangerous.
09/19/2007
Jennifer
PA
John 15:17,18 Jesus said: "These things I command you, that you love one another. If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you." I am a JW and very proud of that. This negative talk about JWs are prophesies only being fullfilled just like Jesus said it would. I am very happy to know that I am a part of this divine truth. The way things are getting in this world you can see all the things that were prophesied coming true. The wars, sickness, crime, violence, bad storms including hurricanes and tornados, old age and death. All the questions for these things are found in the bible. You need someone who can explain all these things to you, and I have found that JWs are the only ones that I KNOW that could answer these for ME.
09/19/2007
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
KNOCKING IS REALLY WHAT JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES ARE ABOUT!!! AS A GROUP ... Even if there are individuals who are not genuine, or change for the worse.. I still have crying melt downs.... I only hope that the organization I have looked up to will see the need for more transparancy with internal congregation matters, because as long as 'individuals deviate with impunity from the the balansed bible based guidelines' either because of incompetence or evil intent, Jehovah is the Judge, so many others will continue to be harmed by those who are either unqualified counselors, or simply have no intentions of following foolproof guiedlines, and add insult to injury by not accepting responsibility for the damage they cause in the position they hold. I am thankful for the medication that helps me function, the therapist, and most of all Jah helping me.
09/19/2007
Dave Brown
Central Point, Oregon
Some have expressed doubt as to whether the leadership of Jehovah's Witnesses is now discouraging Witness youths from seeking higher education. As an example, in 2005, Governing Body member Gerrit Losch spoke forcefully against a college education at an assembly in Monza, Italy which can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R4f9ygxDbk
09/19/2007
Linda Lucier
East Providence, Rhode Island
I was very sad that they actually had to choose whether to save there lives or die because they would not take blood. They were very lucky. I was brought up as a JW they are strick, fill you with guilt, and my mother is a JW and goes to a JW assembly allday on Christmas then comes to my brothers house celebrates Christmas and excepts all gifts same with mothers day ect. I like a lot of what the jws believe and if there is another religion like it but not so demanding let me know Three meetings a week and preaching give me a break talk about controlling peoples lives.
09/19/2007
Linda Lucier
East Providence, Rhode Island
I was very sad that they actually had to choose whether to save there lives or die because they would not take blood. They were very lucky. I was brought up as a JW they are strick, fill you with guilt, and my mother is a JW and goes to a JW assembly allday on Christmas then comes to my brothers house celebrates Christmas and excepts all gifts same with mothers day ect. I like a lot of what the jws believe and if there is another religion like it but not so demanding let me know Three meetings a week and preaching give me a break talk about controlling peoples lives.
09/19/2007
nancy
springfield, ma
Congratulations! for a well done piece. To the disfellowship-We all make personal choices in our lives,good or bad we must learn to live with them. First, we are told what to do, then we are warned what will happen if we brake the rules and principles society (not the watchtower) has established for us, and then we suffer the ramification once we brake the rules. But, in every instance we always tend to blame the person who established the law. Whether is God's law or man's law. What ever wrong you feel it was done to you, as a mature person, you have to decide what you want out life. YOu have to ask yourself, why did you came to serve God, was it because you enjoy socializing with JW's or because you really believe in what you voluntarily accepted to learn from the bible. I don't know of any elder or circuit overseer that has the power to give life and nor do I know of any brother's or sister that can make your life perfect. Look within yourself and ask yourself how have you affected the lives of others, have you ever offended or hurt anyone and feel you have done nothing wrong? If you parents, relatives or friends did not live up to Jehovah's standard, why should you let their non-Christian behavior direct your live and weigh you down. Ask yourself, Were you a hearer or a doer of God's word. How many of the fruitish of the spirit did you apply or were willing to work with? Did you really believe in God's teaching or you decided to serve him out of emotion or to pleased someone? Would you like your children or someone you dearly love to constantly criticize you for your mistakes or do you rather have them approach you and work things out with you? Pointing fingers is not going to solve anything for you. Neither, are you going to stop the work of JW's. This is energy lost that can be use in something positive.YOu might change one or two person's mind or taint their good reputation, but they will continue to grow. not even Hitler could stop them, neither the many trials we all have faced in this depleting world. At the final analysis, only God has the authority to choose whose righteous and whose not. Let him make the decision.
09/19/2007
Karen
Oakdale, CA
I, too, am honored and privileged to be one of the over 6 million Jehovah's Witnesses on the earth today. I want to thank you for broadcasting this program showing Jehovah's Witnesses as they truly are. Thank you
09/19/2007
Laura
Sacramento, CA
I saw this documentary for the first time last night and I must say that I was quite impressed. I was born and raised in the truth and I have been a baptized Witness since the age of 14. The only Jehovah's Witnesses of my family are those of my immediate family. It was difficult at first for my aunts/uncles to deal with parents' new set of beliefs and practices. However, we have come to a point where we "peacefully co-exist" with them. We regularly get together with them, for our social family gatherings, as long as it is not for holiday and/or birthday reasons. Although they do not accept our beliefs, they have come to respect them. We rarely discuss religious issues, unless somebody initiates a question or issue- then we are open to discussing the matter. I hope this film has changed peoples' opinions about JWs (in a positive way). I spend 50+ hours a month going door to door, and I always enjoy finding someone willing to hear what the Bible says.
09/19/2007
Woodland,Ca.
I don't know where the person got the information, but Jehovah's Witnesses do not endorse the United Nations. It is considered to be one of Satan's best tools for misleading mankind into thinking that mancan solve his own problems independent of God. On the U.N. building, Isaiah is quoted, yet it does nothing to encourage the turning of swords into plowshares, in fact it has done only the opposite for most of it's history.
09/19/2007
I am one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I was born and raised as a Jehovah's Witness. As many people have already stated, their have been many things stated in the media that are either extremely biased or just flat out false. This documentary took a very objective look at our lives and our history and the fact that even though we are different we are still human and go through many similar experiences that others do. I cried twice at both stories. It was a faith strengthening film.
8/16/07
Be cautious about forming your opinions regarding the JWs organization, the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (WBTS) based solely on this movie. It shows only one side of the WBTS. It would be great to see a documentary that addresses some of the reasons why many have left the organization and no longer share the WBTS version of the truth. What about the WBTS association with the United Nations? This is not a half truth made up by a bitter apostate. This is a fact. How does the WBTS justify its membership, direct involvement and support of a political organization when it sent many of its own members to their deaths over political neutrality issues? What about the destroyed lives left in the wake of failed JW prophecy? Imagine selling all your belongings or foregoing a higher education, spending large amounts of your time preaching door-to-door, not really thinking about or preparing for your future in this world, waiting for the prophesied end to arrive and then guess what, as that time approaches the prophecy changes as it no longer fits the current times. You are now at retirement age with nothing but social assistance and life is continuing to go on. Where is the WBTS now? Are they going to provide for you in your retirement years?
8/16/07
Special K
What surprises me most is that the WBTS has very little to no response about the writings and comments of supposed apostates. Such brave souls as Ray Franz and Randy Watters as well as many others who choose not to remain silent about the facts. The only response the WBTS makes is to admonish its members (threaten really with disfellowshipping) not to consider any information from would be "apostates" as though it were directly from Satan himself. Why is the WBTS silent? Why is it not unleashing its legal forces? Why do we not hear about law suits against supposed apostates who have slandered the mighty organization? Could it be that there is too much truth in what they say for it to be considered slander?
If anybody would like to know where they can find information about the WBTS, information that the WBTS doesn�t want you to know, please feel free to ask and I would be happy to post some web addresses.
8/16/07
Stacy
I would like to address Jay's comment regarding "2 types of Ex-Witness's 1)The type that isn't bitter, but left because they want to do their own thing, just like Joel. They have a certain respect for the JW's and will defend them or are neutral towards them. I respect there free choice. 2)Then you have the angry bitter people who left, frustrated that they could not live up to the high standards lash out at those that can. It is their way to cope with failure. JW's(Bible) standards are very high, hard to apply all the time."
Actually that's not true. There are many "types" - not simply "2". There are people who are not bitter at all, simply disagreed with the JW interpretation of the Bible and left. Or found out the truth about the history of the organization and didn't want to be part of it and left. It had nothing to do with "living up to high standards." However, JW's have to label these people as "APOSTATES", as Jay does above, so that they can feel justified in classifying them as 'evil' and shunning them.
I know, Jay; I used to have to try to defend and justify JW shunning the way you have to. It's tough to do when you have a conscience. Now I realize "apostates" are actually nice, loving people who can't be hypocritical and support teachings that are false. Their claims are actually backed up by fact, not un-truths, like the JW's version of the history of their religion is.
Joel had nothing to lose: he was never baptised, so he didn't lose his family. I find it difficult to "respect his free choice to do his own thing" when he had nothing to lose. I respect those who HAVE something to lose and still stand up for the truth and their own integrity regardless of the pain it causes them. These are people who cannot be hypocrites and I admire that.
8/16/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
Dave Brown asks: "Many other religious groups find ways to nurture faith for their children in college. Why can't Jehovah's Witnesses do the same? Why stifle a young mind that might want to seek a career requiring higher education?"
Answer: Going to college is almost a guarantee that you will not come back to this religion. College teaches people how to think critically, the need to question and analyze what and why we believe what we believe, how to determine what is fact and what is fictitious. Not everyone who goes to college leaves this organization, but few go to college and stay. Knowledge is power, and this religion is terrified of both knowledge and the power it gives people over their lives.
Many of the comments here by Witnesses serve to demonstrate what an organization that discourages education produces in the way of clear thinking and the ability to express the same.
8/14/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
According to Chuck from Broken Arrow, "apostates," or people who have stopped believing the doctrine as set down by Jehovah's witnesses, compare equally with murderers, rapists, and thieves. I think Chuck demonstrates EXACTLY what is so wrong with this organization. You criminalize those who do not accept the "truth" as you define it. You SAY you are following the Bible, but so do a few other billion people on earth--who all believe differently than you. Because someone doesn't believe that 144,000 is a literal number of people who are going to heaven, he should be treated as a murderer, rapist, and thief? How can you be trusted to speak the "truth" when you use logic like that?
I would just like to say for the record, I have never committed murder, rape, or thievery. I have never been a drunkard nor an idolater. I simply started to believe things that are different from what I used to believe. And in your mind, that makes me no better than a convicted felon.
So you follow ALL of the Bible? Where does it speak of a "Governing Body," or an "Organization" that will act as the mediator between God and humans, dispensing the "truth" when and how they see fit? Why does your doctrine change over the years if it's really the "truth?" How can you disfellowship people who do not believe EXACTLY what you believe today when you know it may be different than what you'll believe tomorrow?
8/14/07
EC
TN
There are a lot of witnesses, who learnt the truth after they examined many other religions. When they start to let others know that they want to become a witness, they face a lot of people, who will tell them all the pros and cons for being a witness �more cons so. When they decide that they still want to become a witness, they go out from door to door. Believe me, that is when you face all kind of reasoning. Following that test of faith they will make up their minds if they really want to get baptized. Nobody is I never had to develop the spirit of rebellion, because whenever I had a question or didn�t come to the same conclusion, there were loving people who took the time to help me understand things I didn�t consider before. Everything is very logic and wise, because it comes straight from the Bible. It is the best thing I ever done. I am so happy to be a Jehovah Witness. Nobody ever needs to be sorry for be being a Jehovah Witness
8/7/07
Jay
Great Movie.
Some negative comments must be addressed. First you will notice there are 2 types of Ex-witness's
1)The type that isn't bitter, but left because they want to do their own thing, just like Joel. They have a certain respect for the JW's and will defend them or are neutral towards them. I respect there free choice. 2)Then you have the angry bitter people who left, frustrated that they could not live up to the high standards lash out at those that can. It is their way to cope with failure.
JW's(Bible) standards are very high, hard to apply all the time.
As for the Apostates, their half-truths taken out context equal whole lie's. It's that old serpent yapping off again, just like he did in the garden of Eden, well we aren't buying the lie, like Eve did.
8/7/07
Brooklyn, Ny
I have seen the film, it was pleasent to see. I am not a Jehovah's Witness, but my family are. My brother was expelled and my sister.They were reinstated.For me, I grew up learning it in spanish, and really did not understand the teaching,because my spanish is not up to date.also i really did not care about it.Well at times my family would preach to me, and i was curious of other religion's teaching's,I did not want to be closed minded,I guess.So i visted a catholic church a pintocostal church, and to be honest, i found it uncomftable,the idols was scary,and it was not educational.So I continued to see more religions being produced by men and woman.So i said to myself let me see what the bibles teaches.The more i learned from the bible, the more i saw these religions that i was looking into was not practicing what the bible teaches.I am currently studing the bible with a Jehovahs Witness, and to be honest,there pretty educational,I saw a comment on jws not wanted a higher education, They are the Higher Education, I see that people are allowing there emotions to stop them from learning, put your emotions to the side and pray for understanding, and the ability to reason. and if you need a hug, I'll give you one, dont allow hate to develope in your heart.I'm 29 years old now, and i guess it took me a while to mature.
8/2/07
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Cor. 5:11-13: which says that a "fornicator, greedy person, or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. ...Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." True, those verses don't mention apostates, but neither are murderers, rapists, theives, and other unrepentant wrongdoers mentioned that OTHER SCRIPTURES DO, also grounds for disfellowshipment! Look for example at 1 Cor. 6:9-11. David only gives a half-picture of the things that can lead to being disfellowshiped. JWs believe strongly that we teach the TRUTH, so with that in mind, what are we to do in view of John's 2nd letter (2nd John 9,10) which states "Everyone that pushes ahead and does NOT REMAIN IN THE TEACHING OF THE CHRIST does not have God. ...If anyone comes to you and does NOT bring this teaching never receive him into your homes or say a greating to him. For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works." So, JWs follows ALL of what the Bible teaches, not just what appeals to each individual! If someone doesn't want to live by those standards--and apparently David does not--then that person can either disassociate himself or be expelled. Jesus said in prayer at John 17:17 "YOUR WORD IS TRUTH". JWs make every effort to live by God's Word, which at times means expelling wrong-doers, protecting the congregation. Reasonable people can see the course of wisdom in doing so.
7/31/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
"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..." What this verse does NOT say is: "Quit mixing in company with anyone who disagrees with YOUR concept of God, or who questions what YOU have said is the 'truth' or who has stopped believing what YOU believe." Jehovah's witnesses put someone who doubts or questions doctrine in the same category as fornicators, greedy persons, drunkards and extortionists.
Thousands of sincere people, who are dedicated to living truthfully have found they are no longer welcome, even as family members, to associate with the Witnesses. Ironically they learned to never back down, never give in to social and emotional pressure to conform to something they believe is wrong from the same organization that now throws them "to the wolves" and uses one of the most hideous forms of emotional abuse to silence them forever... shunning them as if they were already dead. One wonders how they sleep at night when they have inflicted such pain on their own "brothers" ... even their own family.
7/31/07
Alex
Ontario, Canada
I will watch 'Knocking' however I am not expecting much. When a religion that is as controvercial as the Watchtower is, has members writing in to say it was fair, what comes into my mind is that it is not objective. It is too bad that pbs probably did not do the quality work that they did on the Mormon American Experience movie.
7/31/07
Lynn
Omaha, Ne
I see a lot of hateful comments concerning the Jw's. I can only hope that Jehovah relieves your heart from such misery. Jw's in general are loving and happy people. So please don't feel sorry for us. We are people that choose to stay in our religion becuz its rings of truths to our ears. None of the other religions have ever done that to mine before. I was involved in wiccan as my last resort to finding myself..I am so very blessed that I was given the for site to understand that this religion is from satan himself. I denounced everything and burned all books and yes even my book of shadows. I pray to God to give me help, the next day as dawn approached in a park lot called the Kingdom Hall I found myself. I went there in jeans and a tee shirt and was helped by the sisters and brothers. I love Jehovah as the talk that day was about spiritism. Is this the true religion oh yes it is.
7/31/07
Dave Brown
Central Point. Oregon
The "Myth or Reality" section for Knocking on PBS says this about the Witness view of a college education: "Also, the preaching work of Witnesses did not require a college degree, therefore the pursuit of higher education was discouraged.... Now, many young Witnesses attend college." Since 2005, Witnesses are strongly discouraged from seeking higher education. The 2007 District Assemblies contains a lecture entitled "The Superiority of Being Taught By Jehovah" which gives a one-sided, very negative view of higher education. The lecture includes interviews with members who give testimonials how college was really a waste of time and how devoting oneself to preaching door-to-door is a better choice for Witness youth. No allowance is made for those Witness youth who might want to choose a professional career (like teaching, medicine, journalism or law) which would require a university education. Instead, college life is stereotyped as immoral and antithetical to spirituality. Many other religious groups find way s to nurture faith for their children in college. Why can't Jehovah's Witnesses do the same? Why stifle a young mind that might want to seek a career requiring higher education? Aren't there additional ways to serve God than just preaching?
7/31/07
RecoveringwithJahshelp
Norway
Knocking really opens the door, and eys of anyone fairminded, really shows that well founded spirituallity, and non fanatical conviction is what makes a person, and a group worth respecting. I recently was verbally abused by an american circuit/district overseer here in Norway it was shocking, and hurtful, the provacation because I extended an african hand greeting instead of shaking his hand ( which I am a bit phobic about)worst his behaviour before my husband and the then english circuit overseer about the matter was very disrespectful, he reapted over and over you were rude to me, but guess what later when my husband and I called and spoke privately why he apologized, seemingly in tears and explained that he thought I was prejudice against white people,(even though my husband is white)???? however after that episode I was removed as a pioneer reason still "unknown" my point give it time and the truth comes out!
7/25/07
How can anyone say that JW literature does not predict a time when the end of this world would occur. Only someone not familiar with JW dogma would say something so absurd. "Truly I tell you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur" Matt. 24:34. JW's have indentified "this generation" in their very own literature (if you want examples just ask)as those who were alive during the period of 1914 and that they would be alive to see the complete fulfillmet of bible prophecy. It sure sounds like a prediction or "prophecy" to me. It does not surprise me though that they are trying to play this down now as it certainly has not occured and JW "prophecy" about the time of the end has failed yet again.
7/25/07
SpecialK
There is a mass of evidence that would appear to indicate that the JW cult despite their obvious sincerity are grossly mistaken regarding there interpretaion of the bible and its many prophecies. It amazes me that they will automatically out of hand classify anything that disagrees with their point of view as apostate or from Satan. I have never experienced such a close minded group of individuals that appear to be terrified of any thing that does not come directly from their beloved Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. How can any one who is so unwilling to examine all aspects of an issue be certain they have the truth when they only have half the information available. If you are not one of them they will tell you you are unqualified to make any judgements regarding them. If you are one of them or have been one of them and you voice a different opinion you are apostate and expelled. It is a losing battle to even try to reason with such people. I really feel sorry for them. They are so blinded, controlled a nd enslaved by their leaders.
7/25/07
miriam
tampa florida
I JUST ARRIVED FROM A MEETING IN THE KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAS WITNESSES AND AS ALWAYS, I AM OVERWHELMED WITH EMOTIONS AT THE RESPECT, LOVE AND CARING THAT THE WITNESSES SHOW ONE ANOTHER AND THOSE THAT ARE VISITING THEM. I LEAVE EACH MEETING WITH A PROFOUND FEELING OF PEACE. I WAS RAISED A WITNESS AND MY LIFE WAS WONDERFUL. I FELL AWAY AND FOLLOWED THE WORLD AND ENDED UP MISERABLE. I HAVE RECENTLY ONCE AGAIN RETURNED TO JEHOVAS ORGANIZATION BECAUSE OF A GREAT NEED FOR THE BEAUTIFUL TEACHINGS WHICH CAN ONLY BE FOUND THERE AND THE INTERNAL PEACE WHICH NOTHING IN THE WORLD OFFERED ME. I ALSO WANT NOTHING MORE THAN FOR MY INFANT DAUGHTER TO LEARN ABOUT JEHOVA AND LEARN TO LIVE A DECENT, PRODUCTIVE LIFE. I HOPE THAT PEOPLE WILL CONCENTRATE A BIT MORE ON THE MILLIONS OF JW'S DOING GOOD AND LOVING ACTS ACCORDING TO GODS WORD AND NOT CONCENTRATE SO MUCH ON THE FEW WHICH ARE DISFELLOWSHIPPED. AS CHILDREN WE ALL NEEDED DIRECTION, TIME-OUTS AND EVEN SPANKINGS FOR BEING BAD... BEING DISFELLOWSHIPPED IS A TIME OUT FOR OUR OWN BAD DEEDS. HAS ANYONE HEARD OF THE SAYING "ONE BAD APPLE....." HOWEVER, JEHOVA IN HIS INFINATE WISDOM AND LOVE HAPPILY ACCEPTS THESE FOLLOWERS BACK INTO HIS FLOCK ONCE HE FEELS THE TIME IS RIGHT. ONCE AGAIN, LETS CONCENTRATE ON THE GOOD THINGS AND NOT ON THE BAD.
7/19/07
Robert Johnson
Kapuskasing, Ontario, Can
The Jehovah's Witness Organization has not believed at various times that they could designate a time when the "end" was to take place. Matthew Chapter 24 states clearly that not even Jesus would know when that "day" or "hour" would take place. Individuals may have made that mistake but Witness literature does not state that a marked year or a significant year would tell us when the end of this world system of things would end. This is a cruel world... the end of this evil system of things is good news. The end of the wicked rests with God. He does not desire any to be destroyed. Thankyou for your time.
7/19/07
Rita Skeen
Detroit Michigan
I am a jehovah witness and love the way independentlens program was done it made my heart full up whit joy. we do love Jehovah very much. this help people of all races &non witness see how & what we beleave once again thanks.
7/18/07
Alan Owens
My mother and I live near a Jehova's Witness Kingdom Hall. Several times they have come knocking to our house. They were well dressed and civil about knocking. I didn't know that they have taken their uncompromising faith all the way to the Supreme Court.Furthermore, the show gave examples of two families, one a jew and the other a young man whom are uncompromising examples of their faith. The show ended saying that uncompromising faith will be a part of the human fabric; which faith is the question.
7/18/07
I AM NOT A WITNESS...However I was raised as one. I left to do my own thing and not be two faced. I have seen this film in its entirety and feel it was a good documentary on the beliefs of the JW religion. I find it facinating that the new pope Benedict XVI made the following comment to his JW cousin in Australia just after he was installed, "YOU ARE DOING THE WORK WE SHOULD DO...YOU HAVE HALLS THAT ARE NOT TOO BIG, BUT THEY ARE FULL. WE HAVE CATHEDRALS, CHURCHES, CHAPELS AND THEY ARE EMPTY." She said that while her religious differences with the families had caused frustration the Pope had encouraged her for following her faith. Read about Nelson Mandela's sister's funeral and how he commented on the beautiful ceremony and how he appreciated the witnesses. She was one. I went to see the convention 1st in a longtime and found it a more loving group of people then ever before. For whatever may have been taken as one being wronged before in this organization I can say it is in Jehovah's care. Please quit quoting Raymond Franz's books he has come back to the JW's now. Yes anyone can change. Many are coming back that I never in my wildest dreams imagined would. And yes I have seen the pieces of texts of apostate literature...misquotes all fashioned in a sublte manner of bitterness made to seam real.
7/12/07
Steve Kelly
Halifax, Canada
Open minded individuals wanting an unabashed look inside the JW cult should consider „Falling in Truth, The Education of a Jehovah‚s Witness‰. It‚s a must read. It provides an accurate and truthful look inside the JW cult, what they believe, how they live, how they deal with on another and what they think about those outside their organization. This free on-line book along with a number of other related discussions and forms can be found at http://www.geocities.com/loyal2truth/index.html . Of course any JW‚s knee jerk conditioned response will be „APOSTATE‰ demonstrating one of the control techniques the „Governing Body and „The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society‰ uses to keep its membership in submission. To truly understand the JW cult one must be willing to consider information presented by those outside of the JW organization (many of which have first hand experience having been members themselves at one time or another). The „Governing Body‰ and „The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society‰ along with its member „Jehovah‚s Witnesses‰ have proven time and again that it can not be trusted to provide a truthful unbiased accounting of itself. Consider the information and draw your own conclusions. This is a privilege not to be taken lightly as there are those who do not have the freedom to ask questions without the threat of retaliation, public reproof (disciplinary action) and ultimately disfellowshipping (excommunication).
7/12/07
I saw the story on witnesses and political neutrality. I was wondering if this same group that produced the "knocking" documentry could also do a documentry on the witnesses involvment with the United Nations.
7/12/07
Leaving the JW group on any grounds is typically dealt with by disfellowshipment (AKA excommunication) of the one who leaves. To the uninitiated who may read here within this forum and these pages know this. If you become a Jehovah‚s Witness and subsequently indoctrinate your whole family into it, if you ever decide to leave the JW group, you risk loosing your entire family via the JW shunning practice. It happens all the time. Buyer be ware.
7/10/07
My suggestion is to write a letter to the elders one more time prior to the next circuit overseer's visit and hand it to one of the elders on your committee. If you get the same response, and you believe the response is unwarranted, then write a note to the CO and hand it to him early in his visit. Lay it all out for him concerning your repentance and the length of time that has passed as you have in your post. He will likely bring it up during the meeting with the elders that week. You have only given one side in your post. Of course, we don't know the whole story as to why the committee is hesitating. It may be the seriousness or the notiriaty of the offence. It's good you are taking all the right steps.
7/10/07
EC
Tennessee
In response to comments made on 6/11 and 6/14: For a broken leg I don�t go to the dentist, but I don�t go to any bone doctor either. We all have a system by which we trust and inspect. My system does not include people I never met like those on the internet.
There are people whose advise I take under consideration because they have earned my trust. Somebody who can hide or deceive behind the anonymity of a message board can not show me like someone who shows up on my door what kind of person he/she is. When I walk into their workplace or get invited to meetings to get to know co-workers or friends of a person, can see the interaction among them, and see the result of their work, I might get the impression that this person has nothing to hide, is proud of their work, co-workers, and friends.
Last not least, I never walked into any business or doctor office to ask for the enemies of this business. I assume they have nothing good to say about them. However, I do ask the friends of a business what the shortcomings are, and that helps to pursue with caution. And if a pre-owner would be so happy with a product, he would not sell it. However, I do ask people who keep on buying the same product for decades why they do it. And if their experiences meet my needs or wants, I most likely will look into it.
7/10/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
"The shunning prctice JWs perpetuate on former JW members (following the instruction of the Watchtower Society or JW Headquarters)..." It's THE BIBLE that instructs true Christians. "Headquarters" just follows through with what the Bible teaches. 1 Cor. 5:11-13 says: "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. ...REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES." JWs choose to follow what God's Word instructs. We obey God rather than allowing our emotions to interfere with clear Scriptural teaching, rejecting what we personally don't agree with.
You also said: "Try walking a mile in the shunned person's shoes and then see how philosophical you are." I have walked in those shoes. My daughter was disfellowshiped several years ago, but happily reinstated later. Yes, it was a difficult time for the family, but we remained steadfast and loyal to Jehovah, and she benefitted from it, remembering Heb. 12:5,6,11: "My son, [or daughter] do not belittle the discipline from Jehovah, neither give out when corrected by him; for whom Jehovah loves he disciplines...true no discipline seems for the present to be joyous, but grievous; yet afterward to those who have been trained by it, it yields peaceable fruit, namely righteousness."
7/10/07
Mario
Sugarland, TX
In answer to Joel's question "What role do you think religion and religious freedoms should play within civic society? Jesus Christ clearly stated what role his true followers would play within the society. His words on Matthew 22:39 says: "You must love your neighbor as yourself." Also, religion should really play a crucial role in loving God. Jesus' words on Luke 10: 27 says: "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole strength and with your whole mind." Years after Christ's death and resurrection, Apostle John clearly stated the inseparableness of these two commandments given by Christ. 1 John 4:20, 21 states: "If anyone makes the statement: �I love God,� and yet is hating his brother, he is a liar. For he who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot be loving God, whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him, that the one who loves God should be loving his brother also." Can you not see world peace and harmony if all mankind obediently subject to these two greatest commandments?
7/10/07
WR
I would just like to say that disfellowshiping is not what many have described on this forum. according to the scriptures which is what Jehovahs witnesses beliefs are fully based upon;during this time one is spiritually sick. Think of it this way; you have a bad relationship with your Father, and you decide to never speak with him again. But after a while you realize that you need him in your life. Wouldnt you want quality time with your father? Thats what that time is for to heal your relationship with God. This is the true meaning of desfellowshiping as set out by the scritures. it helps us to remain clean even though we sin. Those who donot understand this donot understand the Bible. Hope this helps explain a little.
7/5/07
EC
Tennessee
Somebody on this board keeps repeating himself that Jehovah Witnesses get rejected by 99% of the world. I would like to get this person and his readers to think about the following: In order to reject something it has to be offered or made available to you. Jehovah�s Witnesses belong to the very few religions, who go from door to door. I think they are the only ones who do it world wide all their live as a Witness. Read Matthew 7:13,14 where it states: �Go in through the narrow gate, because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.� For me that explains the 99% real well.
7/5/07
Some of these anti Jehovah Witness people don�t make any sense to me. For me they sound like immature teenagers: �I hate Jehovah Witnesses because they don�t want to do what I want them to do. I want them to act the way I think they should and I want them to love me for being such a control freak. They can�t be right because I want to be therefore they have to be quiet.� Make your own organization, club, or society and see if you get about 7 Mill members together living organized in harmony together. And if you do you have nothing to badmouth the Jehovah Witnesses about because you have all you need to be happy since you feel better. I have checked out other religious organizations. I never found one with that many members in that many languages that organized that you can ask them in as many languages you speak the same question and get the same answer in their own words. All the other religions I know are quit different in that matter. Their spiritual leaders have all their own opinion and can�t agree on anything much less in different countries all over the world.
7/3/07
Jon
National City, Californiabr
hello I am disfellowshipped and I feel so discouraged at times as I repented 4 didtrict assemblys ago and made all the meetings, rain or shine asked to be reinstated 6 times and each time they change there viewpoint on me and now they said it was my posture and attitude not my actions i wish someone here with authority could take up my case as I know this is the truth and want back in but I feel so misunderstood or cared for. i can be reached at jwjlb@yahoo.com please no apostates thanks.
7/3/07
O.S.
Ontario
I think the whole point of this video was to point out the impact Jehovah's Witnesses have had on society. It is obvious from the comments that the impact is profound. If they are so backwards and wrong, why is this organization still growing? (Over 235 lands with membership at almost 7 million). Jehovah's Witnesses are not out for a popularity contest, they are living to do God's Will. The watchtower society is a legal entity not their leaders. Jesus Christ is their leader. Jehovah's Witnesses use scripture to interpret scripture, they do not claim infallibility. So criticize all you like...Very soon, the whole matter will be settled by Jehovah God. Only then will we know who is right and who is wrong.
Keep checking your faith ...1 John 4:1
7/3/07
Steve Lowry
Chuck said: I'm at a loss to see where I have "supported hatred. Please tell me where I am "supporting hatred." I don't hate anyone, not even ex-JWs. If one is disfellowshiped, I follow the Bible's direction not to associate with them, but that doesn't mean I "hate them". You've got that wrong!
Me: When a (JW) family member disowns a (former JW) family member, what appreciable difference is there if there is actually hatred behind the act or not? The result is the same. If I shoot you because I hate you, or I shoot you because I feel I am doing the so-called right thing, you�re just as dead. The shunning practice JW�s perpetrate on former JW members (following the instruction of the Watchtower Society or JW Headquarters), has destroyed countless families and has shattered an untold number of lives. It�s easy to be philosophical when you�re doing the shunning. Try walking a mile in the shunned person�s shoes and then see how philosophical you are.
7/3/07
marta
vancouver
Many ppl have posted comments that are completly inaccurate. For accurate information about Jehovah's Witnesses and our beliefs , please visit our official website www.watchtower.org . Anyone of Jehovah's Witnesses would be happy to explain our beleifs, using the Bible. You wouldnt go to a Catholic to learn about Buddhism, would you?
7/3/07
Shane
I am really amazed at the kind of hatred that is cast towards this group of people.....including on this forum. I feel it seeping through many of the written words here. I finally got a chnce to see the additional features on the dvd and they are cmpelling. Every religion has their tenets, so why cast hate towards a group that does not impose their tenets on others....it appears to me that they merely try to inform...it is up to us to decide what we do with that information. Just say 'no I don't agree with you'...Interestingly the jewish professor said that he did not care for the pacifism of the JW's, because pacifism would not have defeated Hitler....I understand why he said that....but I don't think people get the point that 'if EVERYONE behaved like the JW's, there would be NO WARS...can many religions say that? For me that says it all....how can I hate a people who would never attack me for my views or my way of life, even if they disagree with what I am?
6/26/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, Utah
How many have died needlessly because they refused to take a blood transfusion? 1,000? 10,000? Jehovah's witnesses are willing to put their minor children and themselves at risk of losing their lives over a couple of passages in the Bible--passages that are so vague and subject to such a wide range of interpretation that few if any other Christian religions can come to the same conclusion.
When we consider how many men, women, and children died in Malawi because they were told they could not buy a political identification card, and yet Jehova�s witnesses in Mexico are permitted to bribe government officials to get out of serving time in prison for refusing military induction, could we say that they have been unified and consistent in applying doctrine and policies?
Combine this with the practice disfellowshipping people in order to keep them in line, and then cling to this practice, deluding themselves into thinking it is an act of love, when clearly the psychological brutality is overwhelming to the point that families and life long friends are torn apart, some committing suicide because of it, then I think they are very near if not deep inside cult territory.
6/26/07
Nathalie
Bremen, Germany
today was the first time i heared something about this movie. I want to see it too but it isn't in the german cinemas. It is a great feeling to know that i have so many brothers and sisters around the world.
6/26/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
To Faith: There must be two "Faiths" on this forum, or there is a mistake on one of them. This is addressed to the "ex-JW". You said: "As far as comments from Broken Arrow [that would be me] supporting hatred and a judgmental attitude with Scriptures does not make you better than anyone else." I'm at a loss to see where I have "supported hatred" or portrayed a "judgmental attitude with Scripture". I certainly don't think I'm "better than anyone else", I'm just trying to serve Jehovah and stand up for TRUTH regarding Him and his witnesses from false claims and untruths from opposers on this forum. Those who make statements without supporting evidence.
Please tell me where I am "supporting hatred." I don't hate anyone, not even ex-JWs. I've always believed that no one should be forced to be a part of any religion, Catholic, Protestant or JW and I certainly don't "hate" anyone who differs with our beliefs. If I hated non-JWs, I certainly wouldn't spend time trying to help them understand the Bible.
If one is disfellowshiped, I follow the Bible's direction not to associate with them, but that doesn't mean I "hate them". You've got that wrong!
Also, please tell me what I said that was "judgmental" and what was said to make you think I'm portraying myself to be "better than anyone else". Please don't make accusations without backing them up.
6/22/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
To Victor--Torrance--5/24/07; Although it's been a year Since you were baptized, Welcome to the most wonderful worldwide family on earth who truly love their brothers and sisters! Your brother, Chuck.
To NJ on 5/29/07: I'm so proud to be your spiritual brother! You are a great encouragement! I too will put my whole strength into being "faithful until the day I die."
To Sandmadd, 5/27/07: I'd love to have persons of another faith come to my door to discuss the Bible. I would not consider that an intrusion at all! That's never happened except for Mormons. I've had some great Bible discussions with them, and I welcome anyone who believes their religion is "True" to come to my door. I would never treat them unkindly as so many others have treated JWs. JWs do not encourage people to read "another holy text" rather than the Bible. Our literature is designed to help people understand the Bible and is considered Bible aids, and nothing more. We do not consider them "holy" or "inspired". Are you getting JWs confused with Mormons who DO consider the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, Doctrine and Covenants, and even the Constitution of the United States as "Inspired"?
6/22/07
Faith
Houston, TX
My CATHOLIC family disowned my 2 year old daughter and I when I became one of Jehovah's Witnesses at 33 years of age. After much personal Bible study I came to recognize the truth. The Catholic church, among others were never able to answer my questions FROM THE BIBLE. Jehovah's Witnesses did. They used MY Bible translation to do it. What a fair depiction your movie shows. Many people think Jehovah's Witnesses break up families. The opposite is true. I know many people who have become witnesses and their families no longer want anything to do with them. Jehovah God loves families. So do Jehovah's Witnesses, we just want them to respect our right to worship in our way as we respect them to worship their way. Usually the holidays are the biggest problem. Why not everyone right now take the opportunity to look up the origins of Christmas, Easter etc and see what YOU come up with. Again, thanks for the honest depiction.
6/22/07
Faith
Houston, TX
To Steve Lowry, I want to personally thank you for so eloquently trying to explain to those who are closed minded why some JW, such as myself, have left the organization. Those who chose to leave for SCRIPTURAL reasons and not reasons of immorality are hated and judged by active JW as apostates. They just assume that we did something bad. In the 3 years that I have left � no one had ever bothered to contact me to ask me why I left. What about the scripture which states a shepherd will leave his 99 sheep behind to find the one that is lost? Obviously what is preached is not always practiced. What is sad is that JW are not using the term apostate correctly. I left because I do not answer to a MANMADE organization. My love, honor and respect for Jehovah has grown a thousand percent since I left (does that sound apostate?) I feel closer to him now than I did when I was a JW. As far as comments from Broken Arrow, supporting hatred and a judgmental attitude with scriptures does not make you better than anyone else. THAT is apostate. You need to remove the straw from your own eye so that you can see the hatred that you spew.
6/14/07
Monroe
Joel and Tom Thank You for all your hard work.I personally would like to see your excellent work continue.I have read all 19 pages of peoples comments and I noticed that several people feel that the "more important issues" were not addressed in your previous documentary,so I went and did some research myself on these "issues" and so far I have'nt found much of what is being said by them to be accurate,so I feel that another documentary might be the answer to help clear up some of the negative,and to be honest,hateful comments being posed against JW's.So I would like to see the following "issues" I researched addressed:why JW's beleive shunning and disfellowshiping is scriptural and also the families that have gone through this experience and do these families find this teaching unscriptural, and, if so, please state scriptural basis for said belief;Why JW's view blood as sacred/holy and why they do not take blood transfusions? and please cover the pros and cons of following this scriptural teaching. Also, please address the comment being made that the JW organization at one time belonged to the U.N. I would be very interested in viewing your final documentary. Thank you again and looking forward to seeing the sequel.
6/14/07
Steve Lowry
You: “Let us open up the following topic for discussion . . . can anyone explain . . . why it is that . . . (JW’s)
are consistently spoken of in malevolent terms?” (hyperbole omitted)
Me: Perhaps you should be asking YOURSELF this question? It may have to do with the Watchtower Society’s ban on blood transfusions that have and do kill JW’s and JW minor children. Most people in a civilized society take a poor view of children dying unnecessarily because of being refused medical treatment; regardless of so called religious rationale. Or perhaps it’s the real life side of the JW experience and practice of shunning that destroys families when JW’s disown family members who make the decision to leave the (JW) group? It could also be the many failed/false predictions of the end of the world (as we know it) made by the Watchtower Society. These are few reasons why people may speak of Jehovah’s Witnesses in malevolent terms, as it were.
You: “One does not see a dentist to set a broken leg. For accurate answers, one goes to the source.”
Me: A smart consumer seeks out current AND previous owners of a product, before making the purchase.
6/28/07
It seems that this movie has brought some issues to the forefront, so I would like to add my comments. Although I have not yet seen the movie I feel qualified to comment on the issues brought up because I was in the �organization� (well-involved) for about 30 years, after which I voluntarily left because I no longer believed in a number of their teachings or understandings, not because I had an issue with any individuals.
I can truly sympathize with most �Witnesses� because I believe that most of them are very decent, well-meaning individuals who are really looking for something better in life and the future. However soemthing which bothered me very much was the absolute control over these same individuals that is excercised by the headquarters in Brooklyn. It�s one thing to be motivated by Love to do something, and it�s quite another to be motivated by fear (disfellowshipping and shunning, destruction at Armaggedon, uncertainty about yours or your family�s future, etc.). Active �Witnesses� will deny this publicly, but Brooklyn does rule by fear (1 John 4:18).
I am now associated with the Bible Student movement (not JW�s, NOT extinct) and truly understand the Love of God in much different way than the �Witnesses� believed it. I know that Jesus Christ died for ALL men, not just the �Witnesses� (Heb 2:9; John 3:16, 17). And I learned the actual history of the organization in the late 19th and early 20th century.
Nevertheless there are some truths still taught by the �Witnesses�, such as the coming millenial Kingdom, and the resurrection of the dead. And when these things occur, they will be surprised by WHO will be there.
6/28/07
When you say you've always believed that "no one should be forced to be a part of any religion, Catholic, Protestant or JW," but then turn around and say you refuse to associate with anyone who's been disfellowshipped and is now an ex-JW, which one are we supposed to believe? Actions speak louder than words.
You certainly don't understand the psychological brutality that so many have gone through when they are disfellowshipped (I am not but that will probably change because of my posts here) and lose everyone they have ever known or loved, including grandchildren, children, parents, brothers and sisters, simply because they have changed their religious ideology. You view and treat them the same as drunkards, idolaters, fornicators and adulterers.
6/28/07
Looking forward to seeing Knocking, I have a question how are individual witnesses helped, on those occasions when they have been 1)subjected to psychological abuse of power by body of elders where the superior scriptural guidelines, provided by the governing body have been, misapplied, or willfully ignored and caused debilitating harm? by unjust loss of priveledges, or verbal abuse by Circuit overseers? I know personally of two cases, and several others indirectly, the case I know of personally the individuals were able to recover with help of other elders, who spoke up for, and bravely pointed out the error of the offending elders within governing body guidelines, and validated the victim and were supported to continue faithful service, some others faith wises were 'extinguished' not so good,... when doctors have to get involved the victim must defend Jehovah's organization while giving useful information to get help. 2) What exactly is the authority, and submission that elders require?
6/28/07
P. Vasiliadis
Thessaloniki, Greece
I bought the DVD "Knocking" and watched it carefully. I belong to a 3d generation family of JW's at Greece. I believe that this film was a really ballanced attempt to describe some aspects of JWs' way of life and beliefs.
I think that religion should be a matter of personal choice. Religious discussions should be encouraged between people but religious matters should not mixed with state desicions or laws. State has its role and Religion its own. Civic society should protect every religion and not engage or "use" any of them.
According to my experience, families with members that belong to different religions can survive peacefully but this is not the easiest thing. I think that co-believers' families are more happy and successful.
The film made known to the public a part of things that should be known about JW's. The flooding of notorious comments concerning the blood transfusion stand and the so-called molestation matters at internet are targeting to spoil the peaceful and law abiding reputation o f this Christian community.
6/12/07
Iowa
JW's are the only religion that has proven throughout history that they will not surrender their faith, and they will absolutely not allow any unclean conduct to infiltrate into there organization, hence the disfellowshipping. Check out this link if you want to know the truth about why JW's do disfellowship. http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/1988/4/15/article_01.htm They are also the only religion that is completely united together, like one big brotherhood. You can go to any Kingdom Hall in the world and find the most loving and caring individuals there, that will treat you with upmost respect, and give the shirt of there backs for you. You will also not find any different teachings from Kingdom Hall to Kingdom Hall, because they all teach the same thing. Also they are the only individuals that will sacrifice there time, there energy,and there material resources to follow Jesus command to teach others about him. They are the only religion that truly love people as Jesus did and that feel that the Bibles message has enriched there life so much that they want to share it with you, so you can find the secret to a happy life and posses it to. If you don't want this for yourself then respectfully tell us to leave the next time we come to your door, and we will do so, more than likely with a friendly smile and a have a nice day. If it is something you do want for yourself,why not take a few minutes and see what JW's are really about next time they are at your door!
6/12/07
I have noticed that even with the hate that has been shown by people of other beliefs and religions the J.W's. have not shown any hatred back to them. As far as the UN is concerned that is not true. They are not true documents. The J.W's. won't even comment on such a flat lie. It is not even worth taking the liers to court to prove it.
Sister
6/12/07
Robert J. Furlan
Jefferson, OH
The person who questioned Jesus' account of Lazarus in Hades needs to understand this. Alexander the Great conquered and left Greek culture behind in Israel about 325 BCE, and so the Jews learned pagan Greek religious ideas, such as Hades as an afterlife, which is not otherwise addressed in scripture. Jesus knew that his listeners understood this afterlife concept without accepting it. He used the account of Lazarus and the rich man as a parable in the midst of 15 parables (from Luke chapters 13 through 19)metaphorically to describe the refusal of the Pharisees to recognize Him as the Messiah. But he was not endorsing the pagan concept of afterlife. Hades is the only Greek word that describes the condition following death, but literally means the grave.
6/11/07
John K
I thought this was a very interesting film. I am not one of jehovah's Witness but have family that are. I feel in no way left out or shunned by them, we are a very close family and they have just found what works for them. Interesting comments...I cant imagine the pain, heartache of being "shunned" or being an "unbeleiving" mate..or risking your life for blood. However you have to admit that this system does work and keep the organization successful compared to decrease in members of other churches. could it be God who knows? If we are reasonable we can admit the Bible IS strict compared to morals today. I think maybe they are just trying to do whats right. Which is never easy or popular. Thanks for the inside look.
6/11/07
Let us open up the following topic for discussion: can anyone explain, free from bias, opinion or emotion, why it is that a group of people who teach doctrine and principle from the scriptures, try hard to live by the example of Jesus, dont smoke, abuse alcohol or drugs, will not take up arms (that is, they refuse to kill), are uninvolved in the politics that divide entire populations, refuse to pledge their allegiance to anything other than God himself, abide by the law, are completely unified in teaching, friendly, respectful, peaceful, considerate and loving are consistently spoken of in malevolent terms?
These are good things, right? Any group calling itself Christian that was able to achieve these things should be the envy of all of the world's religions.
To those who aim to impede others from learning the truth: you prove scripture and by doing so, strengthen the faith of many. (See John 15:18, 25) Your doing so will draw people who say to themselves Why do people roll their eyes when any one mentions Jehovah's Witnesses?!
Jehovah is looking for honest-hearted people. (John 4:23) These will be drawn to the aforementioned qualities.
If you have read what the web says about Jehovahs Witnesses, I invite you to speak with any one of them and then compare that person with the insidious characterizations described there. Do they match what you read?
One does not see a dentist to set a broken leg. For accurate answers, one goes to the source.
6/11/07
WA
Well done!
To Vallejo, CA thank you for your comments(John 13:35) "By this all will know that YOU are my disciples, if YOU have love among yourselves"
Thank you,
Dream
6/11/07
Sarah
Tennesee
I found this film to be very interesting! I have known of JW's for years but I learned and developed a much greater appreciation for this group of people from this film.
I am very appreciative and impressed with their historical influence in Nazi Germany as one of the first non-jewish religions to speak out against the atrocities occurring (as well as becoming martyrs). I appreciate the sacrifices they made to help to strengthen freedom of religious practices/speech. I am impressed with the strength of their convictions for what they believe - even when faced with inevitable persecution.
6/11/07
Donna
Maryland
To: Shane I was deeply encouraged to read your blog. I am a regular pioneer and search for people like you every day who have an open mind who are willing to discuss their viewpoints with me. What you wrote was beautifully said and I am sure that Jehovah's angel will direct someone to your door soon. I wish it could be me. Take care.
6/11/07
Adel, IA
I loved the program. It showed from a non witness point of view what we JW's deal with on a daily basis. As far as the family that had the "bloodless surgery" this was their choice based on info they believed to be acceptable to the guideline from the scriptures. There are JW's that would not even contemplate such a surgery because of the blood involved be it their own (never leaving the body with the aid of machines)or someone else's blood. The point is that even JW's are people of free will able to make thier own choices. Because they are JW's they do their very best to follow the scriptual councel to the best of THEIR ability. Jehovah himself will be the ultimate Judge....for their individual actions.
6/11/07
Steve Lowry
On (JW) disfellowshipping. Every human being,no matter the religion, prac-tices some form of shunning. For example;if you're a parent & your child's bestfriend goes on your internet and watches pron,smokes pot,drives drunk w/your child,what would you do?
Followers of the Watchtower Society, (AKA Jehovahs Witnesses) often attempt to make the worst most possible negative comparisons in their imaginations to try and legitimize the Watchtower Societys shunning practice, regarding former members. This very typical kind of comparison infers that former JW members must all be social degenerates (porn watching, pot smoking, drunk drivers), in its example. It excludes completely all those who have left the Watchtower organization due to scriptural or philosophical reasons/disagreements. The cult mentality teaches that the ONLY reason a member could possibly leave they group is because of some great sin in the former members life. However, many people leave the Watchtower Society every year due to such things as, the Watchtower Societys inane ban on blood transfusions, peculiar and heretical biblical interpretations, the flip-flopping of major (JW) doctrine, and the lack of personal freedoms imposed on the followers of the Watchtower Society, by Watchtower Society. Countless families have been destroyed and individual lives shattered due to this kind of cult protectionism mechanism (shunning). It serves to keep the masses ignorant of the outside world and of reality.
6/11/07
My wife is a JW who erred by getting involved with an unbeliever 26 years ago. She says it was the best err she has made in her 60 years. This film just scratched the surface of the conflict this religion causes among families. The real story should be how they try to become your friend and slowly get you to study with them. Ive done it many times over the years and Im amused over how the brother conducting the study has experienced the same things I have gone thru in my past. Its almost uncanny, like a script to get into your confidance. Then steer you from what you know to replace it with their more accurate knowledge. I have just one question that no one can answer yet and it is kind of simple if you believe the bible word for word without any books on the side. True or False Hades is a place of torment. Answer False. If Hades is not a place of Torment, then why did Jesus used this statement in his parable of the Rich man and Lazarus At Luke 16:23? According to all Watchtower books this was explained in 1935 leaving 1900 years of people being misled by Jesus own words
6/11/07
Dallas, TX
Your Film was magnificent, you did an outstanding job. I truly believe that if the entire world had the mindset of a true JW, he world would be a much better place to live. Until that time we can only hope and pray for a better tomorrow. Thanks for doing great Job!
6/11/07
EB
Mississauga, Canada
First, thank you for trying your best to reflect some of what JW's are all about. Jesus said, you will know my disciples, if they have love amongst themselves. This is my experience. My congregation is made up of many people of many nations - Arabs, Dutch, Greeks, Jamaican, Trinidadians, English, Indian, Pakistans,French, German, Phillipinos, Chinese, to name some. Nationality does not come into our thinking or teaching - We are all God's Children with a Promise. The head of our Congregations is Christ Jesus - all responsible elders know this. Jehovah is the only true God and has put Jesus to oversee the preaching of the Good News. This realy is GOOD NEWS if only people would listen - it is life saving work. If this good new falls on good hearts (good soil) it will take root but it is God who makes it grow. JW's do this work out of love for Jehovah and neighbour, it is hard work and is done voluntarily - no one gets paid. We received free and we must want give free. Many religions have tried to do this work - we do it because of a direct command by Jesus Christ himself, we are successfull because of the Holy Spirit or active force, that Jehovah bestows upon this work. The Truth will set you free - give it a chance and you too will get to know Jehovah and what the Bible REALY teaches.
6/11/07
breanna newcomb
fortsmith, arkansas
my name is breanna and i am one of jw's. my goal in life is to preach the good news of the kingdom to eveyone i meet the majority of my family are witnesses. we enjoy the assosiation that we get at the halll and the brothers in the video were back by millions of witnesses all arounbd the world because we are all a united brotherhood. thatnk you for the video it showed more than what people assume!!!!!!!!!!!!
6/11/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Most negative comments here by opposers of JWs are the same 4 or 5 one-sided criticisms, showing they've read the SAME apostate literature against JWs. These persons claim "Knocking" didn't show "the other side," but the literature they parrot shows only ONE SIDE--the apostate author's! They've made statements without supporting evidence. Obviously some have had limited, or no real association or knowledge of us, other than what they've read in hate literature. For those who really are baptized JWs, and have left, they should critique us Scripturally, rather than judge an entire worldwide religion by their own alleged "bad experience", or by the actions of a few who may not have lived up to Scriptural standards. Have these looked at themselves as to whether or not THEY have lived up to these standards? Being honest about it, perhaps this is why some are no longer JWs. Most people who know Jehovah's Witnesses: relatives, neighbors, work or schoolmates, acquaintences, know better than to swallow what our opposers dish out. They aren't fooled by these collective rantings! Wouldn't it be better to use one's time more productively, helping others learn about the wonderful future Jehovah has in store for people who love and obey Him, than to rant and rave against JWs? If these ranters believe they have the truth, then THEY have the responsibility to "preach the good news of the kingdom" worldwide before the end of this system of things, as Jesus said would be done. (Matt. 24:14).
6/11/07
I thought the film was a very good Witness it was such a good Witness it received a lot of lovely comments as well as hateful comments by people with other beliefs and other religions who are unable to defend there own beliefs and doctrine. As a Witness I have come acrossed this so much in my ministry and even though some have said very untrue things about J.W's. (Untruths being said about J.W's. envalment with the UN) The TRUTH is still being preached through out the earth. I have also noticed that the J.W's. have not sunk to there level exchanging hateful words back to them. The fact is that when our doctrens wear taken to the U.S. Suprem Court by the Clergy at the time this was taking place J.W's. were able to prove there doctrine to be skriptual as well as backed up with historical facts of evidence of true Cristian. When the Clergy was asked to prove there doctrens wear skriptual they stormed out of the court rooms unable to defend there own beliefs and doctren. My qustion is. If they were unable to def end them selfs to the U.S. Sueprem Court how will they defend them selfs later to God. If people go to war because King David fought holy wars of God then they are diciples of King Davids. They are not diciples of Christ Jesus. If true Christians are fellowing in Jesus foot steps and trying to live buy his example because he commanded his desiples too live that way, then how are we being unchristian? If you are not sure of what that "way" is then read the books of Matthew, Mark, Luck and John.
6/7/07
Michigan
On disfellowshipping. Every human being,no matter the religion, prac-tices some form of shunning. For example;if you're a parent & your child's bestfriend goes on your internet and watches pron,smokes pot,drives drunk w/your child,what would you do?According to the former JW's TYPE OF LOGIC the parent should do nothing.Personally I would talk to the child and his parents and if the child has no desire to work on these problems then I would not want my child to hang out with him any-more. Will this child be upset? Probably.But it is the right thing to do.Hopefully over time they will miss their friends and realize how selfish and wrong their actions were and change their life. Disfellowship-ping and shunning are scriptural. You'll find it,just read the Bible.
6/7/07
Has anyone stopped to contemplate the destruction that the JW movement has made on families and the impact that that has had on innocent people? I'm talking about a spouse who "gets involved" and sucked in by the slick and very calculated methods. I'm not saying that JW's are "bad people" but they certainly have a "mission" to recruit as many "converts" as they possible can without regard to the impact and devastation they leave in their wake. I am personally "living" this hell right now and have come to realize that unless I "want to know the truth" and follow my husband, I am destined to live in a marriage "alone" or leave. I have asked the JW's to help me understand how they support "interfaith" marriages and how others make their marriages work in similar circumstances. To no avail. They are either unwilling or unable to and I now see that unless I follow my husband into their faith I am but a "nothing" just to be ignored. They couldn't give a crap about how I feel or my concerns. I have my own faith and have no intention of converting, however, I see that unless I do I am only an "opposing mate" whom will eventually (or hopeful on their part) go away. How sad that this "documentary" didn't get in deep on this side of the issue. There are hundreds of thousands of stories out there that could be told about this side of the issue.
6/7/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
JW's use the excuse that "we're just imperfect humans" to explain the outrageous blunders the Society has committed over the years. Case in point: During the late 1960's, JW's in Malawi died by the hundreds, perhaps thousands, thousands more were exiled and lost everything because they wouldn't sign a card that affiliated them with a political party. The human suffering was horrible. JW's teach that the "seven headed, ten horned Wild Beast" of Revelations that is ridden by the "Great Harlot" of false religion is symbolic of the UN and its predecessor the League of Nations. Yet the Governing Body, for ten years quietly signed an agreement EVERY YEAR with the UN that they would uphold and promote the mission and policies of the UN. For this agreement, they became a UN Charter Member with NGO status. When the report of this agreement broke in the British press in 2001, the Society withdrew their membership within 24 hours. For ten years, the Watchtower Society themselves became the "harlot" riding the "wild beast." This cannot be excused by saying that the men at headquarters are just "imperfect." This was a deliberate, willful act, repeated over and over every year from 1991 to 2001, and was the same kind of alliance for which your brothers and sisters in Malawi and numerous other countries sacrificed their lives to avoid. This is just one controversy that was absent in "Knocking." When will JW's respond to this hypocrisy?
6/7/07
Vallejo, CA
I am not one of JWs, but am very encouraged by JWs. Alot of ppl out there are too quick to judge when something seems out of the norm. The minute a JW makes a mistake, my goodness, the whole organization must be out of wack. Out of the millions of JWs worldwide, how can you conclude that the organization is faulty or wrong when the men/women who are in opposition are imperfect as well as those who are a part of it. We know that whatever religion you are, humans will continue to be imperfect. They will always have something to say. God however remains perfect with those who continue tobe obedient to him. We all want peace and hope, order and happiness correct? But the problem, most of us are too self-centered and independent to work for it cause it's too demanding of our time and effort. It's easier being accepted by what is "normal" because we'd rather be accepted by ppl who honestly don't care about what we "really" stand for w/e the issue may be. The message is simple, "everlasting life" your choice no one else's. The fact that we have that opportunity because of what Jesus and his father did on our behalf... shouldn't the standards be high? I commend JWs for their bravery amidst all the controversy, despite the hate they receive from the general public for not getting the facts straight. Then again Jesus was persecuted and also criticized by ignorant ppl. If everyone liked the JWs then we'd really have to worry. I hope I can be just a brave to "fear God rather than men..." who have nothing better to say because they think they know better.
6/7/07
Chuck
Broken Arrow, OK
Thank you for correcting me. It should have been 2 John 10, not 1 John 9, which didn't make sense anyway because there are only 5 chapters in 1 John. I must differ with you. 2 John 10 DOES apply to JWs' teachings. The main thrust of John's first two letters is Jesus' commandment to Christians to love their brothers, as well as confessing Jesus Christ as having come in the flesh. JWs teach both things. Please read 1 John 3:10-15, and 23, and then 1 John 4:2,3,15,20,21. In context John seems to be emphasizing Jesus' command given at John 13:34,35, and John 15:12: "This is my COMMANDMENT that you love one another just as I have loved you." I took nothing out of context when quoting 2 John 10. Adding verse 9 and 11 to it we read: "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 who has both the Father and the Son. If anyone who 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." So from both 1st and 2nd John, Jesus' teaching refers to his commandment to love our brothers, as well as confessing Jesus as having come in the flesh. Read 1st and 2nd John again, along with John 13:34,35 carefully. You will see for yourself that I took nothing "out of context."
6/6/07
Searching
California
Alot of ppl out there are too quick to judge when something seems out of the norm. The minute a JW makes a mistake, my goodness, the whole organization must be out of wack! Out of the millions of JWs worldwide who "try" to do what is right according to Bible principles, how can you conclude that the organization is faulty or wrong when the men who are in opposition are imperfect as well as those who are a part of it. We know that whatever religion you are, we will continue to be imperfect. We will always have something to say. We all want peace and happiness correct? But the problem, most of us are too self-centered to work for it cause it's too demanding of our time and effort. It's easier being "normal" because we'd rather be accepted by ppl who honestly don't care about what we "really" stand for w/e the issue may be. The message is simple, "everlasting life" your choice. Shouldn't the standards be high due to the fact that Jesus gave his life on our behalf? I commend JWs for their bravery amidst all the controversy, despite the hate they receive from the general public for not getting the facts straight. Then again Jesus was persecuted and also criticized by ignorant ppl. If everyone liked the JWs then we'd really have to worry. I hope I can be just a brave to "fear God rather than men..." one of these days.
6/5/07
I think it's amazing how Jehovah's Witnesses had won the right to publically preach for every other religion on the face of the earth and yet they are the only ones doing it.How can these other religions be so critical? They have the same right to preach THEIR beliefs but they choose not to. We're just trying to give people hope and obey Jesus command to "preach the Kingdom in all the earth."
6/5/07
Elle
While I'm glad the Thomas' survived their respective surgeries. Frankly, I was truly appalled that the Jehovah's Witnesses think so little of life that they would even put people in this position. If they are taking 'fractions' taken from whole blood donations - then they ARE taking blood, period! Call your local blood bank, and ask the how many units of whole blood it typically takes to make up just one unit of allowed fractions - the answer will astonish you!
6/5/07
Travis Bush
What a joke that movie was! Do the Witnesses really believe that the "bloodless" liver transplant was really "bloodless"? One look at the piece of liver that was to be transplanted tells us it was full of blood, which reinforces what I know to be true. Jehovahs Witnesses all over the world live in some great delusion that avoids the facts and ends up in the death of gullable followers every single year. As well, there is no mention of the lengths they go to to silence their critics and those among them that are interested in something that actually resembles the truth. One of their favorite words is apostate, which they claim is inspired by the bible, but is in fact merely a substitution for the word hypocrite in their New World Translation. The movie merely reminded me that their entire organization is rife with those that would subvert the teachings of Jesus and do harm to their own members. Hypocrites and apostates the lot of them.
6/5/07
EB
Mississauga, Canada
First, thank you for trying your best to reflect some of what JW's are all about. Jesus said, you will know my disciples, if they have love amongst themselves. This is my experience. My congregation is made up of many people of many nations - Arabs, Dutch, Greeks, Jamaican, Trinidadians, English, Indian, Pakistans,French, German, Phillipinos, Chinese, to name some. Nationality does not come into our thinking or teaching - We are all God's Children with a Promise. The head of our Congregations is Christ Jesus - all responsible elders know this. Jehovah is the only true God and has put Jesus to oversee the preaching of the Good News. This realy is GOOD NEWS if only people would listen - it is life saving work. If this good new falls on good hearts (good soil) it will take root but it is God who makes it grow. JW's do this work out of love for Jehovah and neighbour, it is hard work and is done voluntarily - no one gets paid. We received free and we must want give free. Many religions have tried to do this work - we do it because of a direct command by Jesus Christ himself, we are successfull because of the Holy Spirit or active force, that Jehovah bestows upon this work. The Truth will set you free - give it a chance and you too will get to know Jehovah and what the Bible REALY teaches.
6/5/07
Michigan
In answer to the question about homosexuality: Unless a person is a dedicated, baptized member of the congregation they cannot be disfellowshipped. When a person gets baptized they meet with 3-4 elders and go over quite a list of scriptural questions. It must be THEIR idea to get baptized and the elders try to make sure this is THEIR decision. When they take this step it means they CHOOSE to serve Jehovah, being obedient to the scriptures. Joel did not make this dedication nor was he baptized.
However, your question is not without merit. Jehovah's Witnesses are very careful of their "association" in obedience to the scriptures that they do so. We feel we are all sinners, and we knock on the doors of ALL people knowing that they are such. In this case, Joel, as one who was raised a witness but did not make a dedication, his decision to do this film is a mystery to me as well, although I appreciate the way in which it was done. I felt it fairly depicated our faith, withough prejudice or bias on h is part. If a person is baptized and subsequently disfellowshipped for unscriptural behavior, he can always return to the elders for counsel and spiritual help, repent and hopefully return to the congregation, regardless of his sin. It is my hope all who view this film who are in this situation will do so.
6/4/07
Michele Cooke
Bumpass, VA
Comments regarding 'Knocking'-- Enjoyed the program. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses I wondered what the 'take' on Jehovah's Witnesses would be...positive or negative. I found the program tastefully done; and it should prove quite informative for those who know little about our Christian faith. Thanks for airing it.
6/4/07
EAN
BRIGHTON, UK
Im sure that you will choose not to post this comment, however I hope that in the interests of free and unbiased reporting you will consider posting it at least. According to my own independant research I am lead to believe that Joel Engardio and Tom Shepherd are both gay men, which is not an issue other than that I find them strange bedfellows with Jehovahs Witnesses, considering the views of the Watchtower Society on homosexuality.The point I am attempting to make is that I too, much like , Joel Engardio was raised a Witness and because I was baptised at aged 16 , being a very impressionable teenager at the time and struggling with a gay sexual orientation I was subsequently disfellowshipped and shunned. My question therefore is this, why are so may Witnesses praising the film makers even interacting with them on a public platform yet shunning others who have been disfellowshipped for living the same lifestyle.I find the Watchtowers double standards in this regard hypocritical to say the least !
6/4/07
amanda
ft myers, FL
I am a Jehovah's Witness and I appreciate this film, yes many times our religion is misunderstood. Taking the time to listen to our beliefs instead of 'fearing' the unknown. Gods Word, the Bible can only be accepted by a humbled heart. All things commanded of us are only for our benefit. Ask yourself, why are there so many different religious beliefs? to stand out as different, one who "obeys God rather than men", and to serve with Jehovah "who desires all to be saved". I make the dedicated choice to serve with all my brothers and siters worldwide unitedly!!
6/4/07
Sanger, Ca
In all fairness Chuck... you are actually quoting 2John verse 10 NOT 1John 9. 2John 10 is NOT referring to Watchtower doctrine. The bible is correct and you must not take scripture out of context and twist it's original meaning to support Watchtower dogma. Read the context Chuck! You will see in verse 7 that John is referring to people denying Jesus coming in the flesh. Apostates in general don't have a problem with that. The film did an accurate job but not a complete job.
6/4/07
Recently on Jeopardy, one of the questions was "What is the most accurate translation of the Holy Scriptures?"
No one got the correct answer, so Alex Trebek said "New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, printed by the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society."
6/4/07
David Swingle
West Jordan, UT
To Chuck of Broken Arrow, OK.: Thank you for your kind words, I appreciate your thoughts. I am not disfellowshipped nor have I disassociated myself. For the most part, I do not feel shunned by my family. Many of my former friends however are afraid of being in my presence, and some family members have stopped inviting my wife, who is still a Witness, and me to family functions. That doesn't bother me. It's their prerogative, but I think it demonstrates how fearful Witnesses are of those within their ranks who have questioned doctrine and policies, who have gone where the investigation has taken them.
I have told a few people about the web site of the United Nations so they could see for themselves the UN's own documentation that the Society was for ten years a Charter Member of the UN, agreeing to support its purpose and its policies or to read a British newspaper article (The Guardian) who first broke the story. Is it apostasy to show people a news article or an official UN statement that answered thousands of inquiries from other Witnesses? They fear any controversial information about an organization they believe is directed by Jehovah. If indeed they have the truth, what is there to fear? And why are they constantly reminded from the mother organization to ignore these well documented controversies? Why hasn't the Watchtower Society ever come clean about thier involvement with the UN?
6/4/07
JPW
West Coast
B First off, great film that I continue to share with the friends, I own the DVD. I highly recommend it. The speical features are great
Now responding to Moshe 2 negative posts, there was a third that I think got the wrong name on it by accident.
Immediatley after reading both these posts based on what you were, and what you have decided to do, 1 Cor. 15:19 the last few words of the verse were brought to my mind. Sorry, but it is, what it is.
6/4/07
I think that this documentary was good; it did what it was designed to do. It put some lesser known facts about JW's into the public eye. Although many of the doctrines were not discussed, I believe that this opens the door to many opportunities for discussion. And it made a good point: JW's are just regular people. We are not perfect by any means. Some of are on our way in and just learning, some are unfortunately on their way out because they don't want to learn any more. For more of us, we are trying to mold our personalities to be more Christlike. This is not a perfect organization. And for those looking for the perfect one..you won't find it. But our directors(Jehovah and Jesus)are. Any JW will tell you, from experience, sometimes you hurt those you love most. That's wehere forgiveness comes in to play. Also just to respond to one of the comments: there are many Jews that have converted. I know of two personally.
6/4/07
I wanted to respond to some of the negative things posted. I was a JW back in the 70's. To date, I have never known of any date when the world was going to end...although there have been special pivotal years in these last days(e.g 1914 christ' enthronement and 1975 probably end of the 6000 years since Adam's creation) those dates don't give us a date as to when the 'world of mankind' will experience Armageddon. What we do know is that we are definitely living in the last days fortold in the Bible(you don't even have to be religous to see this); the evidence is all around us(even Catholics and Baptist will admit this point). And soon very soon, this world will see dramatic changes. As to who will survive Jehovah's day, only Jehovah and his Son Jesus know that info not any of us and it's unconscienable that anyone should judge another...lest we be judged also. But this is a serious thing for all, it involves our very lives now and our personal futures. Whatever obstacles whether emotional mental, etc. we need to focus on the more important issues. Jehovah's sovereignty, not our own. We humans get too bogged down with our own problems in life, and tend to forget we are tiny spects of life on this illustrious planet. Just food for thought. And just to add if any human dictated what I was to think or not think, I wouldn't follow them....
6/4/07
I am currently disfellowshipped from JW and although I take full responsibilities for my actions I also felt that the elders did not understand the full extent of my issues. However, I do not hold this against the entire organization. We are all human and the elders have made an effort recently to assist me and understand my condition in which I am grateful. Some may say this is the opportunity to investigate other faiths, but other so called Christian religions are just simply hypocritical and are just mere social clubs. If the disfellowshipping practice were implemented there would be no one left including the ministers in a lot of cases. Overall JW's are just concerned about your salvation. That's the bottom line.
6/4/07
Great show,
I thought it was a fair and reasonable depiction of Jehovah's Witnesses.
I enjoyed it very much!!!!
6/4/07
C M O
LA, CA
b Thank y both filmmakers and PBS.
But sadly, there is so much hate reflected on commentaries of non- and ex-JW's. How can you accomplished any good from resourcing onso much hate? Nothing good can come up from bad. The origin of hatred is Satan the Devil.
What is so interesting to me, among all this negative is, there is NO JW going to any forum, try stop any protest, interrup any meeting or service, ect... attacking anybody with truths, half-truths or straight lies in an effort to bring down any religion or political establishment of any type, that we formely affiliated with. WE know that we just need to 'get out of her' Jehovah will take care of ALL false religion and Satan'system.
What does this say about all of you that speedily do all you can to bring down the good reputation of JW and the Worldwide Organization?
6/4/07
Erika
Cypress,TX
i am proud 2 be one of the 6 million Jehovah's Witnesses that there are today! and i would like to thank the producer of this show!
6/4/07
Shane
I have listened to family and friends and I have always ran these people off my steps.
Now I finally know why they are hated soo much.....it is because they stand by their principles, actually believe in their faith that does not change to the dictates of our permissive society.
I still don't think I'll ever become one, but I will never chase them from my door again as long as they are willing to hear my point of view and have a civilized discussion.
I think a great point has been missed by many....being a zealot (fundamentalists)as they are can be a good thing. I'd rather have a zealot JW in my neighborhood than another religious group that will cut my head off if I don't accept their faith.
I'd definitely rather you TALK my head off all day, than TAKE it off in violence.
Imagine the kind of world we would live in if everyone refused to go to war with one another. Is it possible that these JW's have stumbled upon the solution to world peace? I doubt it, but I guess unless I ask them their views I am still judging in ignorance.
This should be interesting the next time they show up at my door. Thanks to Independent Lens for providing me with a relative objective look at a people I have refused to give the time of day.
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