Oteneaaron's Posts
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Courz:Of course he has failed. |
MaxInDHouse:You gave him the topic, so why is it so difficult for you to create the thread? Or are you scared that he will humiliate you? |
FxMasterz:This was exactly my point. Good thing you didn't fall for his trick. If he insists, then let him create the thread. It is that simple. |
Courz:I'm not sure - I'll have to do some research about this. But I do know for a fact that the founder of the Mormon Church was a 33rd degree Freemason. The image below is from their website. At least they were honest enough to admit that their founder Joseph Smith was a Freemason.
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Courz:Have there been cases of Jehovah Witness missionaries who have been caught engaging in espionage as sponsored by the CIA? The evidence says YES. Did Jehovah's Witnesses invent missionary work? No they didn't - the Catholic Church did. If missionaries from Watchtower can be accused of espionage, then every other missionary regardless of their religion can be guilty of espionage as well - all we need is evidence to back this up. Courz, I wonder why this your post is giving MaxInDHouse such a hard on. |
Emusan:Staying on topic is not in any of his plans. His plan is to speak gibberish, derail the thread and sway attention from the topic at hand. There is a reason why I never tagged any of the known nairaland JWs to this thread. |
Courz:Oh yes I do. |
Courz:You were right Courz. |
MaxInDHouse:Hehehehehehe Touché. |
MaxInDHouse:Don't fall for this trick FxMasterz. Tomorrow, he will claim that you were following him around and begging him for a debate. He will also claim that he humiliated you by asking you to create a thread. I'm speaking from experience. If he really wants the debate, let him do the creating of the thread. |
achorladey:I tell you, bro. Reasoning from the scriptures was my go-to book back then. |
Courz:It seems like the deeper you go, the worse it gets. I don't doubt what you say about the CIA using religious organizations for their spy activities. I found this document on the CIA website titled - COVERT ACTION INFORMATION BULLETIN - SPECIAL: THE CIA AND RELIGION Here is a quote that caught my attention - "In this issue, we concentrate on the CIA and religion, especially in Central America. We believe that an understanding of the degree to which intelligence agencies attempt to manipulate religion and organized churches is even more essential today than it was in 1975 when Senator Church's Committee examined the CIA's use of missionaries as spies." You can find this declassified document here - https://www(dot)cia(dot)gov/readingroom/document/cia-rdp90-00845r000100180004-4 **remove the dot
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FxMasterz:Jehovah's Witnesses are very pretentious. That is why they are trained on how to speak to outsiders. When going out to preach, they given how-to guides more like scripts that tells them what to say when they are your door. That is why you see them showing their true nature on Nairaland. Nairaland is "anonymous" therefore, they can do and undo. They wouldn't dare say or do these things in the real world when at your door or in the midst of their fellow believers. |
FxMasterz:Thank you for your kind words. |
Courz:Hahahahaha That video you shared yesterday led me to do some research oo. I honestly thought it was only the JWs who were banned in Russia. That is when I asked myself, why would Putin ban these 3 religions? What are their similarities? That was what led to this thread. Thank you for sharing that video yesterday. |
FxMasterz:I completely agree with you that they are all religious cults. They fit into the BITE model of identifying Cults and High Control Organizations. The BITE model, developed by cult expert Steven Hassan, is a tool used to assess whether a group exhibits characteristics of a cult or a high-control organization. It stands for Behavior control, Information control, Thought control, and Emotional control. Let's analyze how Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), and Scientologists fit into this model: BEHAVIOR CONTROL: 1. Jehovah's Witnesses: They heavily regulate members' behavior through strict codes of conduct, including rules about dress, entertainment, association with non-members, and participation in holidays and celebrations. Deviation from these rules can result in social ostracism and disciplinary action. 2. Mormons: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also imposes behavioral regulations on its members, including dietary restrictions (such as abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine), guidelines for dress and appearance, and expectations for church attendance and participation in rituals like temple ordinances. 3. Scientologists: Scientologists exercise control over members' behavior through policies and practices such as the use of ethics committees, enforced disconnection from dissenters or critics, and intense pressure to participate in costly courses and auditing sessions. INFORMATION CONTROL: 1. Jehovah's Witnesses: Information control is evident in the strict regulation of literature and materials provided by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. They discourage members from accessing outside sources of information, particularly those critical of the organization, and promote reliance on their own publications. 2. Mormons: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints controls information by providing official manuals, teachings, and approved sources of doctrine. They discourage members from reading material critical of the church and may restrict access to certain historical documents or teachings. 3. Scientologists: Scientology tightly controls information by restricting access to certain teachings and materials, particularly those related to advanced levels of auditing and spiritual progression. They discourage members from reading critical media or websites and may use legal threats to suppress dissenting information. THOUGHT CONTROL: 1. Jehovah's Witnesses: Thought control is evident in the strict adherence to doctrinal beliefs and the suppression of dissenting viewpoints. They discourage independent critical thinking and promote reliance on authority figures and the organization's interpretations of scripture. 2. Mormons: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints exercises thought control through its emphasis on obedience to church leaders, adherence to doctrinal teachings, and discouragement of questioning or doubting official doctrine. They promote conformity to group norms and discourage independent thought. 3. Scientologists: Thought control is evident in Scientology's emphasis on the elimination of "counter-intentions" and the suppression of critical thoughts or doubts about the organization or its teachings. They use auditing and other techniques to identify and eradicate dissenting thoughts or beliefs. EMOTIONAL CONTROL: 1. Jehovah's Witnesses: Emotional control is exercised through the use of fear, guilt, and shame to manipulate behavior and enforce compliance with organizational rules and teachings. Members are often made to feel guilty for questioning or doubting the organization's teachings. 2. Mormons: Emotional control is evident in the emphasis on loyalty to church leaders and the promotion of feelings of guilt or shame for deviating from church teachings or expectations. The promise of eternal salvation or exaltation is used to motivate adherence to church standards. 3. Scientologists: Emotional control is exercised through the use of intense pressure, coercion, and fear tactics to compel compliance with Scientology's teachings and practices. Members may be made to feel responsible for their own shortcomings or failures and pressured to spend significant time and resources on Scientology courses and auditing. |
#9 Changes in Doctrine and Publications The concept of "new light" or "new information" often leads to changes in doctrine and publications among Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses have made significant doctrinal adjustments throughout their history, including changes to their understanding of Bible prophecy, the interpretation of certain scriptures, and organizational policies. These changes are reflected in updated editions of their publications, such as The Watchtower and Awake! magazines, which disseminate new teachings and interpretations to the worldwide community of Jehovah's Witnesses. 2. Mormons have experienced doctrinal shifts on various issues, including the practice of polygamy, the role of women in the church, and the interpretation of certain scriptures. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regularly publishes official statements, manuals, and curriculum materials that reflect these evolving teachings and interpretations. 3. Scientologists have seen updates and revisions to their instructional materials and practices over time. The Church of Scientology periodically releases new editions of Hubbard's books and lectures, as well as supplementary materials that reflect advancements in technology and changes in organizational policies. Implications for Religious Identity The concept of "new light" or "new information" has significant implications for the religious identity of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists. 1. For Jehovah's Witnesses, the acceptance of "new light" reinforces a sense of loyalty and obedience to the Governing Body and the organization's teachings. Changes in doctrine and publications are seen as evidence of divine guidance and spiritual refinement within the faith community. 2. Mormons view the concept of ongoing revelation as a testament to the living nature of their faith and the continued guidance of God. Embracing "new information" fosters a sense of trust and reliance on church leaders and reinforces the belief in the Church's divine authority. 3. Scientologists interpret updates to their teachings and practices as evidence of the practical applicability and relevance of Hubbard's works. Accepting "new information" reaffirms their commitment to Scientology's principles and the belief in the effectiveness of its methods. CC: Archoladey, Courz, Emusan, FxMasterZ |
#8 Unconventional Interpretations of Scripture In addition to their reliance on extra-biblical publications, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists are known for their unconventional interpretations of scripture. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses have distinctive interpretations of biblical prophecy, particularly regarding the end times and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. They believe that Jesus Christ returned invisibly in 1914 and that current world events fulfill biblical prophecies, signaling the imminent arrival of Armageddon. 2. Mormons have unique beliefs about the nature of God, Jesus Christ, and the afterlife, which diverge from traditional Christian doctrines. They believe in the concept of eternal progression, suggesting that humans have the potential to become like God through obedience to divine laws and ordinances. 3. Scientologists interpret scripture through the lens of Scientology's teachings on the mind, spirit, and human potential. They believe in the existence of thetans (immortal spiritual beings) and the concept of past lives, which they see as integral to understanding individual behavior and spiritual development. Implications for Religious Identity The use of exclusive publications and unconventional interpretations of scripture plays a significant role in shaping the religious identity of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists. 1. For Jehovah's Witnesses, reliance on Watch Tower publications reinforces a sense of doctrinal purity and unity within the faith community. These materials serve as a means of disseminating official teachings and interpretations, ensuring conformity among followers. 2. Mormons view their additional scriptures as evidence of ongoing revelation and divine guidance within their faith tradition. These texts contribute to a distinct Mormon worldview and reinforce the Church's unique theological claims. 3. Scientologists regard Hubbard's writings as the culmination of scientific and spiritual knowledge, offering practical insights into improving one's life and achieving spiritual enlightenment. These teachings form the basis of Scientology's practices and rituals, guiding adherents on their path to self-discovery and personal growth. |
#7 Exclusive Publications These religions are known for their distinctive interpretations of scripture and reliance on extra-biblical publications to shape their beliefs and practices. Despite their theological differences, these groups share similarities in their use of exclusive literature and unconventional interpretations of sacred texts. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses are renowned for their extensive use of publications produced by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. These include The Watchtower and Awake! magazines, as well as various books and pamphlets that interpret scripture and provide doctrinal guidance. Jehovah's Witnesses consider these publications to be inspired and authoritative, often relying on them for spiritual instruction and guidance. 2. Mormons have a vast body of extra-biblical literature, including the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, in addition to their belief in the Bible. These texts are considered scripture by Mormons and are believed to contain additional revelations from God, providing insights into the history and theology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 3. Scientologists have a unique set of publications written by founder L. Ron Hubbard, including Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health and various Scientology textbooks and instructional materials. These writings form the basis of Scientology's beliefs and practices, offering guidance on spiritual development, personal improvement, and understanding the nature of reality. |
#6 Exclusive Truth Claims These religions all claim to have exclusive access to the "Truth". They believe only their religion is true, while the rest are false. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses believe that they are the only true Christians and that salvation is only possible through their teachings. They base this belief on their interpretation of the Bible and claim to be the only group following the true teachings of Jesus Christ. 2. Mormons assert that they are the restored true church of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that their founder, Joseph Smith, received divine revelations to restore the original Christian church. They believe that other Christian denominations lack the fullness of the gospel. 3. Scientologists teach that their founder, L. Ron Hubbard, discovered the fundamental truths of existence and that Scientology is the only path to spiritual freedom and enlightenment. They reject other religions as incomplete or flawed. Implications for their Followers The belief in the exclusive truth of their religion has significant implications for followers of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses are taught to view other religions as false and influenced by Satan. They are discouraged from associating with non-believers and are often taught to prioritize their faith over personal relationships and worldly pursuits. 2. Mormons are encouraged to share their beliefs with others and to actively proselytize to bring people into the church. They believe that their teachings offer the most complete and accurate understanding of God's plan for humanity. 3. Scientologists are taught that their beliefs and practices are the only way to achieve spiritual enlightenment and personal fulfillment. They are encouraged to distance themselves from critics and to view Scientology as the ultimate truth. |
#5 Bans in Russia Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists have all faced significant legal challenges in Russia, leading to bans and restrictions on their activities. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses were banned in 2017 when the Russian Supreme Court declared them an extremist organization. The government's justification included accusations of inciting religious discord and distributing materials that allegedly incited hatred. The ban resulted in the liquidation of their national headquarters and the criminalization of their activities. 2. Mormons have been impacted by Russia's 2016 anti-terrorism laws (known as the Yarovaya Law), which severely restrict religious activities outside of registered places of worship. These laws have led to increased scrutiny and limitations on their missionary work, impacting their ability to practice and expand their faith in Russia. 3. Scientologists have also faced crackdowns, with Russian authorities conducting raids and closing their centers. Accusations against them include extremism and illegal business activities. The government has justified these actions by citing concerns over the treatment of members and the legality of their financial practices. |
#4 Social and Organizational Structures One of the most notable similarities among Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists is their hierarchical and centralized organizational structures, which play a critical role in maintaining control and unity within the groups. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses are governed by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, overseen by a central Governing Body. This leadership body, believed to be spokespeople for God, sets doctrine, policies, and practices for the global community, ensuring uniformity and adherence to their interpretations of the Bible. Congregations are led by elders who implement these directives and oversee the spiritual welfare of members. 2. Mormons are structured under a hierarchical system led by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This top leadership, believed to be prophets and apostles, provides guidance and direction for the church worldwide. Local congregations, called wards and stakes, are overseen by bishops and stake presidents, who ensure conformity to church teachings and policies. 3. Scientologists operate under a similarly centralized structure with the Church of Scientology's leadership, including the Religious Technology Center and its Chairman of the Board. The organization is highly hierarchical, with a network of churches, missions, and advanced organizations that deliver religious services and oversee the adherence to Scientology's doctrines and practices as laid out by founder L. Ron Hubbard. |
#3 Treatment of Former Members The treatment of those who leave these religions is harsh and unforgiving. Former members of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists often face significant stigma and ostracism. 1. Former Jehovah's Witnesses aka "Apostates" are frequently stigmatized as morally or spiritually weak. They may be portrayed as having abandoned the true faith, leading to strained or broken relationships with those who remain in the congregation. This stigma extends to social and professional realms, making it difficult for former members to reintegrate into broader society. 2. Ex-Mormons encounter similar challenges. Those who leave the faith voluntarily or are excommunicated often find themselves distanced by the community. The loss of social and spiritual privileges can be profound, and the community's perception of them as apostates can lead to lasting social and emotional repercussions. 3. For former Scientologists, the label of SP (Suppressive Person) carries severe consequences. Disconnected individuals are cut off from all communication with current members, including their closest family. This policy not only isolates them socially but also aims to discredit their experiences and testimonies, making it difficult for them to find support and validation outside the church. |
#2 Handling of Child Sexual Abuse All three groups have faced significant criticism for their handling of child sexual abuse cases, often prioritizing the reputation of the organization over the welfare of the victims. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses have been scrutinized for their "two-witness rule," which requires two witnesses to the abuse for it to be considered actionable within the congregation. This policy has been widely criticized for allowing abusers to evade accountability. Victims often face pressure to remain silent to avoid bringing reproach on the organization. 2. Mormons have also faced allegations of mishandling abuse cases. Critics argue that church leaders sometimes prioritize protecting the institution over supporting victims. In some cases, church officials have been accused of failing to report abuse to secular authorities, opting instead for internal disciplinary measures. 3. Scientologists handle abuse allegations through internal justice systems, such as the Ethics and Justice Code, which can discourage victims from seeking external legal help. The organization's emphasis on protecting its image and the confidentiality of its practices can create significant barriers for victims seeking justice. |
While Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), and Scientologists are distinct religious groups with unique beliefs and practices, they share several similarities, particularly in their social and organizational structures, their relationships with mainstream society, their policies on shunning, how they treat former members and their handling of child sexual abuse (CSA). In this thread, we will discuss some key similarities between these religions. Before we begin, let's take a quick look at their history: 1. Mormons: Founded in the 1820s by Joseph Smith in the United States, centered on the Book of Mormon and additional scriptures. 2. Jehovah's Witnesses: Emerged in the late 1870s by Charles Taze Russell in the United States, with a unique interpretation of the Bible. 3. Scientologists: Established in 1954 by L. Ron Hubbard in the United States, based on Hubbard's writings and teachings on the mind and spirit. Now let's dig into their key similarities: #1 Shunning and Social Isolation One of the most notable similarities among Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Scientologists is their stringent policies on shunning former members. Each group enforces social isolation to varying degrees, creating a clear insider-outsider divide. 1. Jehovah's Witnesses practice "disfellowshipping," where individuals who are deemed to have committed serious violations of religious rules are excommunicated. Disfellowshipped members are shunned by the entire community, including their own families, who are instructed to avoid almost all contact with them. This policy can lead to profound emotional and psychological distress, as former members lose their primary support networks. 2. Mormons implement excommunication for severe breaches of church standards. While the extent of shunning can vary, excommunicated individuals often experience significant social distancing. They lose access to religious sacraments and the close-knit community that defines Mormon life. Although not as formalized as in Jehovah's Witnesses, the social consequences can be equally isolating. 3. Scientologists use a policy known as "disconnection." Members are required to sever all ties with anyone labeled a "Suppressive Person" (SP), including close family members. This policy aims to protect the spiritual progress of current members but results in complete social isolation for the disconnected individuals, cutting them off from their former lives and relationships. |
FxMasterz:No bro, You shouldn't have gone so low to his level. Aemmyjah only wants to drag you into the mud with him. When they can't provide counter evidence, their only option is to hurl insults at others. |
MaxInDHouse:Another round of manipulations. So it's no more "poor" but "poor in spirit"? Ok So if the Governing Body is only "poor in spirit" why do they still need BLOOD MONEY from the sale of weapons of war and tobacco cigarettes? "To be poor in spirit means to acknowledge our deepest human need for God and to grow in that longing and that dependence on a daily basis." |
Courz:Lol. Where the money comes from doesn't matter. It's all part of bribing their god to negotiate salvation. MaxInDHouse:Funny enough, when they try to prove that Christmas or Birthdays are bad, they say that these practices come from a "pagan" origin. Remember the illustration of a candy found in the gutter - will you still pick it up and eat it though it is sweet but was found in the gutter? What if you just wash off the dirt? Would it still be clean to eat? But when it come to money, it doesn't matter where it comes from. Please define HYPOCRISY. |
MaxInDHouse:Following your logic of manipulating scriptures, can Watchtower be regarded as "poor"? How can you call the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania "poor"? Na wa oo You are now lying against your "lord and master Jesus" - just to defend blood money? Wawu |
Courz:They also have investment in Pfizer the company who created the Covid-19 vaccine. Why do you think the Governing Body was pushing them to take the vaccine? The same vaccine that has been exposed to have cause serious cases of blood clotting and cancer. The same vaccine that has claimed the life of millions of people around the world. But as MaxInDHouse said, it doesn't matter where the money comes from. It's all part of the bribe paid to their god to negotiate salvation. MaxInDHouse: |
MaxInDHouse:NIV, St. Matthew 6:2 "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full." Is Watchtower "needy"? Stop acting coy. I want to bribe your god to negotiate my salvation. How much would that cost? MaxInDHouse: |
MaxInDHouse:Lol. I wanna bribe your god to negotiate my salvation. How much would that cost? MaxInDHouse: |


