Jehovah's Witnesses and the Integrity of Biblical Texts

This article explores the perspective of Jehovah's Witnesses regarding the integrity of the Bible, particularly in light of Revelation 22:18-19. It examines how these verses are interpreted within the context of maintaining the authenticity and truthfulness of God's word, as well as the significance these texts hold for those who add or subtract from scripture.

Introduction to Jehovah's Witnesses

Jehovah's Witnesses are a Christian denomination known for their strict adherence to the Bible as divine revelation. They believe that the Bible, particularly the New World Translation (NWT), is the only accurate and trustworthy source of God's word. This article aims to clarify why Jehovah's Witnesses are deeply concerned with the preservation of the original biblical texts, especially regarding the warning to not add or subtract to the text.

Revelation 22:18-19

The verses in Revelation emphasize the sanctity and authority of the Bible's contents. Jehovah's Witnesses hold these verses in high regard because they see this as a commandment to not alter or pervert the message of the Bible. Let us delve into the significance of these verses.

Revelation 22:18 states, “For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book, if anyone adds to these things, God shall add to him the plagues which are written in this book.” This verse serves as a dire warning to those who would tamper with God's word.

Revelation 22:19 further emphasizes, “And if anyone takes away from the words of the words of this book, God shall take away his part from the book of life, and from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” This verse underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the text, indicating that even the smallest change could have significant consequences.

Application and Relevance

The warnings from these verses are not just historical but have direct relevance to the present. They serve as a caution for those who might think they know better than the words revealed to them by God. The implications of adding or removing from God's word can lead to severe spiritual consequences.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that their task is to restore the Bible's original message as previously corrupted by false interpretations and traditions. This task is not about adding to or subtracting from the text but about clarifying its true meaning based on the NWT and other reliable translations. They believe that this is essential to avoid the curses mentioned in these verses.

Scriptural Context and Teachings

The teachings of Jesus and the early Christians are a key reference for understanding these warnings. Jesus warned about false Christs and false gospels in Matthew 24:4-5 and Matthew 24:24. The Prophet Isaiah also emphasized the importance of upholding the truth revealed by God (Isaiah 22:1–4).

Jehovah's Witnesses see themselves as part of the faithful remnant, working to restore the truth and purity of God's word, as opposed to the apostate churches that have added to or altered the Bible over the centuries. This contrasts with the teachings of the churches that have incorporated doctrines such as the Trinity and the eternal torment of souls, which Jehovah's Witnesses consider to be harmful false teachings.

Modern Relevance

In the modern era, the warnings in Revelation 22:18-19 have taken on new significance as false doctrines continue to proliferate. Jehovah's Witnesses believe that it is crucial to stay committed to the original texts of the Bible, as amended or expanded interpretations can lead to spiritual peril.

Publishings such as the NWT and other reliable translations serve as a tool to help believers navigate the challenges of their faith in an ever-evolving world. They provide a means to understand the true meaning of God's word and to eliminate any false teachings that might be introduced by those who seek to lead others astray.

Invitation to Learn More

To gain a deeper understanding of Jehovah's Witnesses' perspectives on scripture and their efforts to maintain biblical integrity, we invite you to explore the following resources:

These resources provide further insights into the motivations and beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, as well as the challenges they face in upholding the original message of the Bible.

Conclusion

The integrity of God's word is a central concern for Jehovah's Witnesses. Revelations from Revelation 22:18-19, in combination with teachings from other scriptures, underscore the need to preserve the authenticity and truthfulness of the Bible. By adhering strictly to the text as it was revealed, Jehovah's Witnesses seek to stay true to the original teachings of Jesus and the early Christian community, avoiding the curses mentioned in these verses and ensuring that their message remains pure and intact.