₦airaland Forum

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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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

oteneaaron:
#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

They're all cults.

What is the fate of those who died being loyal to old lights in their ignorance? What is the guarantee that their loyal followers today are not at risk of being loyal to some lights that would become old lights after they're long departed? Is this not the same as the confession made by one of the JW leaders in the court case below? They have fed their followers with untruth on the pain of spiritual death only to discover seeming truths later after many have departed holding on to falsehoods. Is there any guarantee for those deceived souls in the great beyond? Is it not too dangerous for the soul to be attached to an organization that lacks sound doctrines? Doctrines don't change again and again whenever they're sound.

Are we not commanded to teach only things that are of sound doctrines? Are we not commanded to prove all things (including the doctrines we teach to men) and hold on to that which is good? 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: " Titus 2:1


Maxindhouse, Michael547, Janosky Cornelboy Janosky, would you please answer these questions?

Nice thread Oteneaaron. Shows you that Jehovah’s Witnesses aren’t unique after all. The same Cult tactics. Where is the basis for identifying yourself as the One True Religion when other Cults define themselves to be so as well?

oteneaaron:
#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.

And Jehovah’s Witnesses make it seem like they are the only ones banned in Russia. 😁😁😁😁

FxMasterz:
They're all cults.

What is the fate of those who died being loyal to old lights in their ignorance? What is the guarantee that their loyal followers today are not at risk of being loyal to some lights that would become old lights after they're long departed? Is this not the same as the confession made by one of the JW leaders in the court case below? They have fed their followers with untruth on the pain of spiritual death only to discover seeming truths later after many have departed holding on to falsehoods. Is there any guarantee for those deceived souls in the great beyond? Is it not too dangerous for the soul to be attached to an organization that lacks sound doctrines? Doctrines don't change again and again whenever they're sound.

Are we not commanded to teach only things that are of sound doctrines? Are we not commanded to prove all things (including the doctrines we teach to men) and hold on to that which is good? 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: " Titus 2:1


Maxindhouse, Michael547, Janosky Cornelboy Janosky, would you please answer this questions?

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.

Courz:
And Jehovah’s Witnesses make it seem like they are the only ones banned in Russia. 😁😁😁😁

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:
They're all cults.

What is the fate of those who died being loyal to old lights in their ignorance? What is the guarantee that their loyal followers today are not at risk of being loyal to some lights that would become old lights after they're long departed? Is this not the same as the confession made by one of the JW leaders in the court case below? They have fed their followers with untruth on the pain of spiritual death only to discover seeming truths later after many have departed holding on to falsehoods. Is there any guarantee for those deceived souls in the great beyond? Is it not too dangerous for the soul to be attached to an organization that lacks sound doctrines? Doctrines don't change again and again whenever they're sound.

Are we not commanded to teach only things that are of sound doctrines? Are we not commanded to prove all things (including the doctrines we teach to men) and hold on to that which is good? 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: " Titus 2:1


Maxindhouse, Michael547, Janosky Cornelboy Janosky, would you please answer this questions?

Don’t bother calling these people. They will just come here to reduce our Brain cells with their responses. We have addressed their Cult similarities with other Cults some time ago and they were just blabbing rubbish. You aren’t going to get anything beneficial from their responses.

Courz:
Don’t bother calling these people. They will just come here to reduce our Brain cells with their responses. We have addressed their Cult similarities with other Cults some time ago and they were just blabbing rubbish. You aren’t going to get anything beneficial from their responses.

Very true.

But at least, they'll feed and become more knowledgeable, and also know that we did our best to help them recover themselves. They won't realize it now but some day, either here or there, they'll be able to see how much we loved them.

oteneaaron:
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.

You’re welcome. That video I shared was a very important video showing a different side of Watchtower. Remember, I once posted evidence of their involvement in Politics in your Freemason thread. I also posted an article I saw about Jehovah’s Witnesses arrested in China in the 60s because they were CIA agents posing as if they were preaching. Now, that lady in that video I posted it confirmed it which brings me to the conclusion that a lot of these arrests of JWS in Russia is for Spy related activities which explains why their items and Kingdom Halls are always searched thoroughly. Also, regarding your thread, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons and Scientologists are used by the CIA as agents. So, this banning of these Cults in Russia has an underlying meaning to it.

oteneaaron:
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.

Honestly, when I was younger and used to read JW texts and that of the 7th Day Adventists, I usually wonder why they're called cults by other Christians. It wasn't hard for me to understand why the Mormons are a cult but I couldn't break the JW shell until I got to Nairaland. They keep a lot of secrets away from the general public.. There are some of their doctrines you would never know about until you join them.

FxMasterz:
Very true.

But at least, they'll feed and become more knowledgeable, and also know that we did our best to help them recover themselves. They won't realize it now but some day, either here or there, they'll be able to see how much we loved them.

You are right. They won’t appreciate our efforts now but they will in the future. I have told them this before. There will be times when they will find our posts to read them again once they start to see what we have been saying.

oteneaaron:
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.

Very detailed analysis.

This is very informative.

FxMasterz:
Maxindhouse, would you please answer these questions?

Ọmọ you and i don't belong to the same line of thought so stop mentioning me as if i owe you something, enjoy your friends with whom you share so much in common and take good care of yourself!

those orgs. all came on the scene in recent history
and they all think they are it and all others are fake

they are just part of end time false prophets, false teachers, etc.
there are many others that believe they are the true faith also

it's much better just to be a Bible believing Christian not belonging to any group
there are good Christian groups out there i'm sure, i just don't know of one or i'd join it

we can know by the posts of so called Jehovah's witnesses here, that they are frauds
all they mainly do is argue about how they are God's peope, they are always trying to convince
but with their many lies and much confusion and name calling etc. they fail big time
they are as we know the devils mob

MaxInDHouse:
Ọmọ you and i don't belong to the same line of thought so stop mentioning me as if i owe you something, enjoy your friends with whom you share so much in common and take good care of yourself!

It is that your very line of thought that I actually want you to look deeply into. The questions I asked should force you to reexamine your line of thought.

FxMasterz:
It is that your very line of thought that I actually want you to look deeply into. The questions I asked should force you to reexamine your line of thought.

I have the one and only organization that's practicing what Jesus taught so if you want me to examine whatever you want to say the first thing you have to do is present a better performing group than JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES!

Once you do that you and i can reason together but in the absence of that ọmọ take good care of yourself!

MaxInDHouse:
I have the one and only organization that's practicing what Jesus taught so if you want me to examine whatever you want to say the first thing you have to do is present a better performing group than JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES!

Once you do that you and i can reason together but in the absence of that ọmọ take good care of yourself!

Was it Jesus who taught your organization the rules and lingos in the attached screenshot?

FxMasterz:
Was it Jesus who taught your organization the rules and lingos in the attached screenshot?

What is the name of your own church and where do they worship?

MaxInDHouse:
What is the name of your own church and where do they worship?

I don't have a church I can call mine. I am simply a disciple of Jesus and belong to the body of Christ. Jesus owns His church. So, how can I own one?

I've answered your question, so answer mine.

Is this what Jesus taught that your organization is also teaching below:

FxMasterz:
I don't have a church

So you can't think straight when it comes to rules binding on true believers!

MaxInDHouse:
So you can't think straight when it comes to rules binding on true believers!

Are these the rules binding on true believers?

FxMasterz:
Are these the rules binding on true believers?

Do you know true believers?

FxMasterz:
Very detailed analysis.

This is very informative.

Thank you for your kind words.

FxMasterz:
Honestly, when I was younger and used to read JW texts and that of the 7th Day Adventists, I usually wonder why they're called cults by other Christians. It wasn't hard for me to understand why the Mormons are a cult but I couldn't break the JW shell until I got to Nairaland. They keep a lot of secrets away from the general public.. There are some of their doctrines you would never know about until you join them.

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.