Tacking or More Mindless Steering

[xjw4evr]

Back in the day, we (speaking of when I was a JW) were taught that the changes in WT dogma was something akin to tacking as a sailboat does. However based on this little tidbit I just saw regarding the 1914 generation, I have to wonder if it is mindless steering. The April 15, 2010 Watchtower has just changed the definition of "this generation" for the sixth time.

Holy Spirit’s Role in the Outworking of Jehovah’s Purpose

13 Third, holy spirit is at work in bringing Bible truths to light. (Prov. 4:18) This magazine has long been used by “the faithful and discreet slave” as the primary channel for dispensing increased light. (Matt. 24:45) For example, consider our understanding of those who make up “this generation” mentioned by Jesus. (Read Matthew 24:32- 34.) To what generation did Jesus refer? The article “Christ’s Presence—What Does It Mean to You?” explained that Jesus was referring, not to the wicked, but to his disciples, who were soon to be anointed with holy spirit. Jesus’ anointed followers, both in the first century and in our day, would be the ones who would not only see the sign but also discern its meaning—that Jesus “is near at the doors.”

14 What does this explanation mean to us? Although we cannot measure the exact length of “this generation,” we do well to keep in mind several things about the word “generation”: It usually refers to people of varying ages whose lives overlap during a particular time period; it is not excessively long; and it has an end. (Ex. 1:6) How, then, are we to understand Jesus’ words about “this generation”? He evidently meant that the lives of the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914 would overlap with the lives of other anointed ones who would see the start of the great tribulation. That generation had a beginning, and it surely will have an end. The fulfillment of the various features of the sign clearly indicate that the tribulation must be near. By maintaining your sense of urgency and keeping on the watch, you show that you are keeping up with advancing light and following the leadings of holy spirit.—Mark 13:37.

[Berean]

Originally Posted by xjw4evr

Back in the day, we (speaking of when I was a JW) were taught that the changes in WT dogma was something akin to tacking as a sailboat does. However based on this little tidbit I just saw regarding the 1914 generation, I have to wonder if it is mindless steering. The April 15, 2010 Watchtower has just changed the definition of "this generation" for the sixth time.

I'm surprised that they changed it again so soon from the last time. I thought they would have waited for the 100th anniversary of the supposed king returning invisibly in 1914 and redefine "this generation" in 2014. Anyway, I guess this like the many other changes the Society has had to make in recent years is what a false religion has to do when they make themselves spiritual baffoons - make it up or change it up as you go along.

[Tee Ar @ FB]

A former instructor in the Watchtower, David Reed, tells about its vascillation:

Will Sodom & Gomorrah's former inhabitants, whom God slew, be resurrected?

In 1879, July, on p. 8, it said YES.
In 1952, June 1, p. 338, it said NO.
In 1965, Aug. 1, p. 479, it said YES.

In 1988, June 1, p. 31, it said NO.
In '88, JULY, the Society said, YES.

In '89, Dec., it said NO.

Is the Society's Light getting brighter, or flashing?