I am a Jehovah’s Witness. Why should I consider becoming a Christian?
Introduction
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe they are Christians. However, there are key differences between Jehovah’s Witnesses and mainstream Christianity that are important to understand. As a Jehovah’s Witness exploring Christianity, it is wise to thoughtfully and prayerfully examine what the Bible says on these topics. This article will provide a high-level overview of some of the main differences, so you can evaluate them objectively according to Scripture. The goal is not to criticize but to inform and present alternative biblical perspectives for consideration.
The Identity of Jesus
One of the most fundamental differences between Jehovah’s Witnesses and mainstream Christianity concerns the identity of Jesus Christ. Jehovah’s Witnesses believe Jesus was the first creation of God and is a separate entity from God the Father (Colossians 1:15). They deny the Trinity, teaching that Jesus is not God. However, mainstream Christianity believes Jesus is fully God and fully man forever (John 1:1, 14). This belief in the deity of Christ is foundational to Christian faith. Scripture declares Jesus as God and worthy of worship (John 20:28; Philippians 2:9-11). If Jesus is God, then becoming a Christian means worshipping Christ as Lord. This contrasts with the Jehovah’s Witness teaching of Jesus as a created being. The biblical truth of Jesus’ divinity is a central component of Christian belief.
Salvation by Works vs. Grace
Another key difference concerns the doctrine of salvation. Jehovah’s Witnesses believe salvation is earned through faith plus good works, including evangelism, attending meetings, and obedience to Watchtower dictates (Ephesians 2:8-9). In contrast, Christianity teaches salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, because of Christ’s finished work on the cross (Ephesians 2:8-9). Biblical Christianity views good works as the result, not requirement, of salvation. Works flow from gratitude to God, not to gain salvation. Trusting completely in Christ’s atoning sacrifice for salvation, not human merit, is the crux of the gospel message (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). The gift of eternal life rests on what Christ accomplished, not what we do (Romans 6:23). This truth revolutionizes how we relate to God, shifting from works-based acceptance to grace-based assurance.
Hell
Jehovah’s Witnesses deny the existence of hell. They believe the unsaved will be annihilated and cease to exist. However, Christianity affirms the reality of hell as eternal separation from God (Mark 9:42-48). While this is an unpopular topic, Jesus spoke of hell more than anyone in Scripture. He would not have warned people to avoid a place that does not exist. These divergent views of hell reflect very different perspectives on God’s justice and the consequences of sin. Annihilationism risks diminishing the urgency of evangelism and the need for faith in Christ for salvation.
Approach to the Bible
Jehovah’s Witnesses view some parts of the Bible as more authoritative than others. They rely heavily on the New World Translation, which includes notable differences from standard Bible translations. In contrast, evangelical Christians believe the entire Bible is the inspired Word of God and authoritative in all matters of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Scripture, not any particular religious organization, is the final authority for Christians. Additionally, Jehovah’s Witnesses discourage independent Bible study unless it aligns with Watchtower teaching. However, Christians are called to study Scripture for themselves (Acts 17:11) under the guidance of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). Unity rests not in uniformity to a specific denomination but in shared faith in the biblical Jesus.
Afterlife in Heaven
While Jehovah’s Witnesses believe a select number of “anointed” members will go to heaven, the majority will live forever on a paradise Earth after Armageddon (Revelation 14:1). Historic Christianity teaches all believers will dwell with God forever in heaven through faith in Christ (John 14:2-3; 2 Corinthians 5:8). The Bible depicts heaven as a glorious, sinless realm where God’s people will worship Him for eternity. While God will restore the earth, Christians look forward to heavenly life in God’s presence (Revelation 21:1-5). Our eternal destiny is not limited to an earthly paradise but full fellowship with God in heaven through Christ.
Approach to Fellowship and Evangelism
Jehovah’s Witness teachings promote separation from those who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses, even family. Only approved activities with members are permitted. In contrast, Jesus prayed for spiritual unity among all believers (John 17:20-23). While Christians cannot compromise doctrine, unity across churches is important. The Bible also encourages friendships with non-believers, that they may come to faith (1 Corinthians 5:9-11). Additionally, Jehovah’s Witnesses have motivations beyond love for evangelism, including required hours and saving themselves. Christians share the gospel out of love and concern for the lost (2 Corinthians 5:14). Our witness stems from gratitude, not obligation. These exclusive fellowship and legalistic evangelism practices of Jehovah’s Witnesses stand in tension with biblical Christianity.
Treatment of Abuse
Tragically, accusations have been made that Jehovah’s Witnesses have harbored cover-ups of abuse and discouraged reporting these crimes. They also practice shunning of victims who leave the organization. Christianity considers any abuse detestable and confronts it head-on, along with caring for victims (Matthew 18:6-7; Romans 12:19-21). Any reports should be taken seriously and investigated fully. All people deserve protection, justice and support. Handling abuse biblically means removing cover-ups and dangerous environments, denouncing evil, and exemplifying the love of Christ to those harmed.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several significant differences between Jehovah’s Witnesses and biblical Christianity. This overview is not comprehensive but provides a starting point for thoughtful and honest evaluation according to God’s Word. The Bible encourages us to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Pray for wisdom and discernment as you meditate on Scripture and compare it with what you have been taught. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you into His liberating truth (John 8:31-32). God rewards those who sincerely seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). It is our hope this exploration would spur you to open your heart to the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus Christ. “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). May you experience the joy, grace and truth of life in Christ.