About JW Watch (formerly JW Survey)

message3

It is my pleasure to give you a warm welcome to JWWatch.org. This website has been launched to give voice to millions of Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world who would not normally have the opportunity to say what they really think about the Watch Tower Society, or the teachings and practices of the Governing Body.

The Governing Body has yet to express any interest in hearing the views of ordinary witnesses. Their mantra is: “We talk, you listen!”

If you are a Jehovah’s Witness, or a former Witness, you will be aware that the opinions of rank and file publishers (and even elders) are rarely sought by the Society. The small number of men making up the Governing Body have declared themselves the “faithful and discreet slave” of Matthew 24:45, thus claiming sole control over the organization’s teachings and policies. These men are most certainly NOT interested in the opinions of the “silent majority” of Witnesses under their authority. If they are, they have a strange way of showing it!

This website historically sought to redress that balance by means of an annual survey that was conducted anonymously throughout the world. The first survey was taken in 2011, and immediately attracted the opinions of 1,118 voters before closing at the end of the year. The results were posted to the Governing Body for their attention and review but, predictably, they never replied.

The following year, 2012, the survey received votes from 1,488 current and former Witnesses, most of whom expressed their concern at various Watchtower teachings. The remarkable events of that year (the Candace Conti case and the “new light” about the faithful slave) certainly seemed to get people talking.

Subsequent surveys have allowed in excess of 6,000 per year to express their true feelings about the organization and its leadership, and we are optimistic this number will only increase as JWsurvey grows in popularity.

As we move into 2021, JW Survey has become JW Watch. The John Cedars YouTube Channel has become the Lloyd Evans Channel.

These changes represent where we are as a unified team, dedicated to accurate, non-sensational news about the activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses and their leadership. You will see content that represents investigative reporting, documentary, and occasionally opinions about the state of affairs of more than 8 million members of the Witness faith.

A website for all

This website has been created and made available as a free resource so that anyone, whether they are a former or current Witness, or in some way associated with Witness friends or relatives, can give their honest opinions about Watchtower and the increasingly cult-like direction in which it is headed.

We adopt a strictly non-religious viewpoint, meaning we refuse to promote any belief structure in particular. For this reason, we cannot be accused of trying to “draw off followers.” We are merely interested in garnering the views of ordinary Witnesses and reporting on the facts.

The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses has not authorized or sponsored the survey, and it is run entirely without any influence or input from them. However, we genuinely feel that the brothers who serve on the Governing Body, having assumed such overwhelming responsibility, should take note of how ordinary Witnesses and the general public feel about their leadership, since millions of lives are affected by decisions they make at their private weekly meetings.

Who started this website?

My name is Lloyd Evans, and I am the founder of this website. I set it up in October 2011 with the help of a fellow activist while I was still one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, writing under the pseudonym “John Cedars.” Eventually, I left the organization for conscientious reasons. You can read my story on this link.

I first had the idea to begin gathering the opinions of Jehovah’s Witnesses and their associates around the world because of a variety of issues that continue to be of real concern to me. I believe that ordinary Witnesses who devote their entire lives to loyally serving Jehovah, through what purports to be God’s spirit-directed organization, should have some say in the decisions that are made on their behalf.

It is my belief that not all is well within the organization. I don’t consider many of the teachings and practices encouraged by the Governing Body to have been formulated with the best interests of ordinary Witnesses at heart.

An unmerciful practice

For example, take the practice of shunning or “disfellowshipping.” The Apostle Paul’s words to the Corinthian congregation were as follows:

Screen Shot 2016-06-29 at 13.36.52

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians about the disfellowshipping arrangement never called for family members to be torn apart

Clearly the Apostle Paul was delivering this admonition for the purpose of keeping the congregation clean. But to what extent should these words be applied? By saying “not even eating with such a man,” Paul indicated that his words weren’t directed against family members (who would daily eat with one another), but against other brothers in the congregation with whom one might consider sharing a meal.

There is no reason to insist that the word “anyone” should be applied arbitrarily to “everyone,” irrespective of age or circumstances. Even Watchtower publications acknowledge that there should be some exceptions where family members are concerned. For example, a disfellowshipped husband is not to be shunned by his wife or children, and parents are not banned from speaking to their disfellowshipped children if they are not yet old enough to leave home.

But why should it end there?

Many share my opinion that there is scope to extend even more mercy in applying this scripture than is currently encouraged by the teachings of the Governing Body. Jesus said the following to the unrighteous pharisees:

Screen Shot 2016-06-29 at 13.38.56

Jesus identified mercy as playing a crucial role in the extent to which laws and principles should be enforced. Many do not think it is merciful that older teenagers, many of whom were baptized at an extremely young age (sometimes as young as 9), are forced out of their homes by their parents and then cruelly shunned, often for the rest of their lives, through a mistaken and abhorrent interpretation of the Apostle Paul’s advice.

The Society’s publications themselves warn that “no one should be forced to… choose between his beliefs and his family.” (July 2009 Awake!, p.9) However, they apply this reasoning to every religion but their own.

The scriptures clearly prescribe “shunning” purely as a measure for maintaining the spiritual cleanliness of the congregation, and not for the purpose of breaking up families. To go one step further and insist that shunning should also apply to families is both destructive and deeply unmerciful. It also violates the principle expressed by the Apostle Paul at 1 Timothy 5:8 where he said:

Screen Shot 2016-06-29 at 13.40.59

These and other teachings of the Governing Body are increasingly becoming a cause of sincere distress for many Witnesses who wish that the organization could adopt a more merciful and loving stance. In particular, one can now be disfellowshipped as an “apostate” merely for disagreeing with the Governing Body over this or other issues.

Only human

It is my sincere desire that by means of this website, and its annual surveys, the Governing Body will humbly consider the pleas of both myself and like-minded ones around the world who long for the Watch Tower Society to be a more loving organization – one that truly reflects the need for respect and tolerance toward other people’s beliefs.

The members of the Governing Body are only human, and no matter how much they may pray for wisdom and insight, they cannot possibly be fully aware of how their teachings and directives are impacting the lives of their fellow worshippers on a daily basis. That is what makes this survey website so important. It serves as a constant reminder for them to show greater kindness and mercy in undertaking the role that they have assumed as the faithful and discreet slave.

I would like to thank you in advance for your support for this site, and for getting involved in our important work.

Warmest regards,

new-cedars-signature3

64,180 thoughts on “About JW Watch (formerly JW Survey)

  • January 28, 2024 at 9:29 am
    Permalink

    Thanks a bunch for sharing this with all people you
    actually realize what you’re talking about! Bookmarked.
    Kindly also discuss with my web site =). We can have a link exchange arrangement among us

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 10:13 am
    Permalink

    In the Entertainment Capital of the World, search terms like “DUI Lawyer”
    and LSIs such as “Best DUI Attorney” or “Expert DUI defense attorneys” are vital for legal firms specializing in DUI cases.
    This is especially true in a city renowned for its active social life, like Las Vegas.
    Individuals in neighborhoods like Amber Hills and Arts District seek
    professional legal help in such matters.

    Clark McCourt Criminal Lawyers, based in Las Vegas, NV,
    offers just that. Founded in 1905, Las Vegas is a city with a rich
    history. It has a population of 646,790 (as of 2021) and encompasses
    240,462 households. The Las Vegas Beltway, a major highway, connects the city, improving its accessibility.

    In Las Vegas, attorney costs for DUI cases can vary, based on the nature of the case.

    The city experiences considerable temperature variations, with scorching summers and chilly winters.

    Travelers and residents alike enjoy points of interest such as
    AREA15 and the Bellagio Fountain. AREA15, for instance, is an innovative destination offering interactive experiences, while the
    Bellagio Fountain is renowned for its impressive
    water shows.

    Choosing Clark McCourt Criminal Lawyers is a wise decision for
    those in Las Vegas facing DUI charges. Their proficiency in dealing with such cases,
    along with their deep understanding of the local law, makes them an ideal choice for
    individuals of this vibrant city.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 11:28 am
    Permalink

    I really like what you guys are up too. This type of clever work and
    exposure! Keep up the excellent works guys I’ve
    added you guys to our blogroll.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 11:35 am
    Permalink

    Hey just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The
    text in your article seem to be running off
    the screen in Opera. I’m not sure if this is a formatting issue or something
    to do with web browser compatibility but I thought I’d post to let you
    know. The design and style look great though! Hope you get the problem resolved soon. Thanks

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 2:01 pm
    Permalink

    Do you mind if I quote a couple of your articles as long as
    I provide credit and sources back to your site? My website is in the
    exact same area of interest as yours and my visitors would definitely benefit from some of the information you present here.
    Please let me know if this ok with you. Cheers!

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 5:42 pm
    Permalink

    I am not sure where you are getting your information,
    but great topic. I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding
    more. Thanks for excellent info I was looking for this info for my mission.ダッチワイフ

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 5:57 pm
    Permalink

    Когда моя машина сломалась вдали от дома, мне понадобилась срочная ремонтная помощь. Я обратился к постабанку и взял займ, чтобы покрыть расходы на ремонт и вернуться на дорогу.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 8:30 pm
    Permalink

    Thanks a lot for sharing this with all people you actually recognise what you are speaking approximately!
    Bookmarked. Please also talk over with my site =).
    We can have a link change agreement between us

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 9:00 pm
    Permalink

    Excellent goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you are
    just too wonderful. I actually like what you’ve acquired here, certainly like what you are saying and the way in which you say it.
    You make it entertaining and you still care
    for to keep it smart. I can’t wait to read far more from you.

    This is actually a tremendous website.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 9:06 pm
    Permalink

    Hello there! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a collection of volunteers and starting a new
    initiative in a community in the same niche. Your blog provided us valuable information to work on. You have done a
    extraordinary job!

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 9:08 pm
    Permalink

    We stumbled over here by a different website
    and thought I might check things out. I like
    what I see so i am just following you. Look forward to looking
    over your web page for a second time.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 9:14 pm
    Permalink

    In pay-per-click on (PPC) mode (Edelman et al., 2007;
    Varian, 2007), the platform allocates slots and calculates cost in accordance with both the clicking bid supplied
    by the advertiser and the user’s click on by rate (CTR) on each
    ad. Payment plans fluctuate among the many completely different providers.
    The Hopper is a multi-tuner, satellite tv for pc receiver delivering excessive-definition programming and
    DVR providers. However, through the ’60s, most different kids’s programming died when animated sequence appeared.
    For example, when “30 Rock” gained an Emmy for excellent
    comedy series on its first attempt in 2007, NBC began to see its
    long-term prospects. They only did not essentially see them on the
    scheduled date. See extra footage of automotive gadgets.
    Memory is cheap nowadays, and more RAM is almost always higher.
    Rather, they have slower processors, much less RAM and storage capability that befits
    finances-priced machines. Back then, ATM machines have been nonetheless a relatively new luxury in lots of international locations and the international
    transaction fees for ATM withdrawals and credit card purchases
    were by the roof.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 11:21 pm
    Permalink

    Erotoons.net: A Gateway to Endless Adventures! Our site offers a treasure trove of adult comics that are sure to ignite your imagination. With a variety of genres and styles, there’s always something new to explore. Our comics are more than just stories; they’re an experience, carefully crafted to transport you to a world of excitement and pleasure. Join us at Erotoons.net and embark on an unforgettable journey through the best in adult entertainment.

    If you’ve been searching the web for something truly captivating, your quest ends here. For the finest mini male porn comics , Erotoons.net is your ultimate destination.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 11:46 pm
    Permalink

    Pengamatan manfaat aneh di wap spbo1 live score! Dengan 200% diterima dengan baik honorarium, VIP, ulang tahun, dan rabat, setiap kedip Anda mengadu diri menjadi lebih berharga. Nikmati pertemuan perjudian online yang hebat dengan layanan pembeli.

    Reply
  • January 28, 2024 at 11:49 pm
    Permalink

    Paling berkualitas perjudian online situs di Indonesia jomplay918, untuk saat ini semakin dicari penawaran para bettor dan pemain judi online di negara tersebut. Dengan kredibilitas dan superior tempat perlindungan praktik, kasino juga menawarkan banyak menunjuk program yang akan pasti mengambil tindakan berharga keuntungan karena para pemainnya.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *