JW.org Debunked: 14 Examples of Lies and Dishonesty in the FAQ Section (feat. ExJW Fifth)

(Cedars' vlog no. 257) Jehovah's Witnesses are intensely proud of their official pages at JW.org, which they laud for being the world's most translated website. But just how accurate is it? To answer that question, Cliff Henderson (ExJW Fifth) joins me in a fact-checking investigation of the FAQ section.
Please check out Cliff's awesome channel... / @exjwfifth9838
Visit my website: reluctantapostate.co
Support me on Patreon: / cedars
Follow me on Twitter: / cedarsjwsurvey
Follow me on Instagram: / lloydevanscedars
Buy my book "The Reluctant Apostate": a.co/5qFN4JU
Buy my book “How to Escape From Jehovah’s Witnesses“: a.co/e9OQRi1
Leave a voicemail: www.speakpipe.com/cedars
Check out my t-shirt designs: teespring.com/stores/the-relu...

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

I remember when it was taught that if in 6 months we saw no progress with the bible study, that we should stop studying with the person.

[@angellaglaswow2099]

Efrain Rivera Junior My very first bible study I was pre-warned I was handed a photo copy of a WT article that said when to discontinue a bible study!!!

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

@@angellaglaswow2099 - Wow!

[@jmmarshall5492]

I have studied with the witnesses for over 2 years...I enjoy them very much. I have no intentions of becoming a JW or being baptized into the org. The first pioneer dropped me after a year...then after I moved to a different state, they again came visiting. I could never turn anyone that sincere in their beliefs away, so will study the bible with them until they are no longer allowed to visit me. And I really will miss them if this happens. I love their extensive knowledge of the bible and get my myriad of questions answered! Sometimes the answers might not be on target but I have a discerning mind and can take it from there. I keep them in my prayers and hope their association with Watchtower won't harm their souls.

[@BeautybyJemyjoan]

Progress.......like attending a meeting.......subtle liars. God will judge them.

[@cindyarnold7322]

If normal family affections continue after disfellowshipping then why the video at the convention where the mother doesn't answer her daughter's text or phone call? All this legalism is more like the Pharisees, not loving, not Christian. Sending a hug to all who are being shunned.

[@mimisophisticateddiscussio741]

I used to be sad. My own mother stopped talking to me for wanting to make my own decisions for my family. I was 34 years old. I told her no person could ever make me stop loving and stop speaking to my child, especially whom has done nothing wrong to me. She now sneaks conversations with me because it's the only way to talk to her grandkids. She was talking bad to me to my kids behind my back telling them I left Jehovah and that's serious because I should want them (my kids) to live. 😖 We now have an understanding about that. I have many family members still JW's that I hope wakes up. Many of us have though.

[@Jewelliet]

Right on! So true. Thank you for bringing out this point.

[@shallowlove9507]

Good one..

[@sashamulligan2993]

After awhile you get used to it. I live and love my life. If they want to be in it they’re welcome, but I’m not crying anymore. It’s time to move on.

[@VestalNumbre]

.+ 16 All Scripture is inspired of God+ and beneficial for teaching,+ for reproving, for setting things straight,+ for disciplining in righteousness,+ 17 What did God think when you read these scriptures

[@Thunderwing69]

I made a serious suicide attempt while a member of Jw. There is an invisible heirarchy, within the social aspect of this religion. I had already shunned family who wouldn't join me in my religion. And since I was a single youngish female... I wouldn't be asked too many places, where you might steal someone's husband. So I did a lot of study and had an even more miserable life that I would have had, if I hadn't joined JW. It didn't take the elders long, to chase down which hospital I was in. To help of course. It was too late. I started to realise that JW were no better than anyone else. In fact they seemed colder.. uncaring and focused on their own salvation. They did Me a favor by excluding me and leaving me alone so much. I had time to think critically and start questioning their version of the truth. I left not because of sin... but because they lost control of me. I'm sure this has happened thousands of times.

[@finchalienoverlord9341]

Acid Karen this is exactly my current experience.

[@akarnitakarnitpat2677]

Kerry You are very bright it took me 2 trips back to reolize that as i belived all and was the same as you till some one said you will never be right even when disfelshiped been rigged by (org) Its a clever way of covering up all sorts of things in the name of religion it was stolen from catholic religion but always for your own good confessions saves being sued.But many now have woke up even ray franz been d/ felshiped it stops ? & anwers many now when you speak to 2 elders you may need a lawlier as a wittness.I made that misstake because of amnesia on elders part.

[@GoatlikePersonality]

When I apeard in the newspaper with critic about the Watchtower, two things happened. Watchtower quoted themself that they dont shun family... and my parents unfriended me on social media. :-)

[@darlenerothenay6251]

Yup, no pressure there. What liars they can be.

[@joytoyouandme4593]

I often wonder how they explain the videos that show the shunning of family, not even answering the phone when they call or text? Then on the same website, state that family relations continue. Face- plant

[@dwaynebrooks9532]

Let your parents know, they are going grow old and the society is going to shun them. The WT will tell them to contact you for help.

[@dwaynebrooks9532]

@@joytoyouandme4593 Clearly a lie we can see what they're doing one big contradiction. the WT don't shun just the JW families

[@jessicaa.6690]

Wow. In one quick move, your parents proved that Watchtower was lying.

[@1chadmon]

It’s sickening to see the spin they put on everything and how they dodge the real questions. Kind of like watching Geoffrey Jackson tap dance around the truth at the ARC. So they respect other religions, eh? Well, the sister who studied with me before my baptism said that she would never own a home anywhere near a church, because when Armageddon breaks out and Jehovah destroys the Harlot, she didn’t want to be near it. She also told me to cut ties with my worldly family so that when Jehovah began killing them, it would upset me less to hear them banging and scratching at my door to escape His wrath. Jehovah will have sealed my door, and my mom would be trying to claw her way in. I would have to accept her destruction. Really warm and fuzzy group, with a very loose definition of honesty I’m afraid. Hopefully with all of the media attention and the wealth of information on sites such as your channel, fewer people will fall victim to Watchtower. Thank you for this outstanding video! Very well done as always.

[@guillermovilla9517]

Monica Owens Wow!

[@1chadmon]

GuillermoVilla I know, in retrospect I see how crazy it was. I was married to a JW at the time, and he would explain it away by saying that she was an older, super zealous sister, and that I had to understand that her intentions were to save my life, blah, blah... it worked, I was terrified of Armageddon for over 18 years. I got baptized and love bombed, in 1989.

[@guillermovilla9517]

Monica Owens At least you’re out now. I think we all feel we could have left sooner and paid attention to the red flags sooner.

[@1chadmon]

GuillermoVilla absolutely.

[@heatheradams8946]

OMG. That's an r rated movie

[@rodywithers3536]

Your comments on the blood transfusion FAQ were good - but I was a bit disappointed that you did not mention perhaps the most compelling arguments for blood transfusions: Refusing blood is the most life-endangering decision in emergencies such as pregnancy and birth complications and motor vehicle accidents - situations where there is sudden and massive blood volume loss. In situations like these, blood refusals are tantamount to signing one’s own death warrant. Note also, the examples on JW org of successful operations performed without blood transfusions are elective and/or scheduled surgeries - NOT sudden emergency surgeries where death inevitably follows massive loss of blood volume - and in such situations, there are NO bloodless substitutes - or any that are effective. The sole hope is to quickly transfuse blood to the patient. Ask any clinician who works in emergency medicine: BLOOD SAVES LIVES. It is irresponsible and callous of JW organization to sidestep the question of what happens when someone refuses blood in situations of sudden massive blood loss. Without an immediate transfusion, the body goes into irreversible shock and the patient dies. Period. How dare JW organization say outcomes cannot be more firmly known Also, very telling there were no FAQs about approved and disapproved blood fractions because no matter how you word it, the organization’s policies on blood fractions are astonishingly arbitrary and inconsistent.

[@yummymummy63]

As an (ex) regular pioneer with 'Bible' Studies I used to think the same thing even before I really woke up. I had a legal divorce and was allowed be a pioneer. My thoughts were; 1)Wouldn't it be easier to be oblivious to all of this and take your chance before the apparent Armageddon or die before it? 2) Why was I not allowed to ever find a new marriage mate? I had no contact regarding partners with my ex-husband but was asked to provide proof.. how? Thank 'God' I faded. I am still in touch with some of my old students. I have met a lovely, caring man and enjoying a better life. Thanks so much to you both for this video.

[@mickninja7864]

dear sis - the rules and regulations regarding divorce or separation are so ridiculously harsh they are unworkable and unloving - I was in a marriage to a woman who allowed her teenage sons to take our money abuse the household conveniences I was paying charges of over £1200 for 3 months telephone because one of them was on the phone to his girlfriend all night! the list would be endless if I wrote them all down - things got so bad I even attempted to take my own life (because I had prayed for 18 mths for a partner) so we separated which meant in the elders eyes I was no longer a bro of good standing but no one actually told me this instead I only realised when I kept getting turned down when volunteering - eventually the penny dropped with me and I started 'fading' I began to think 'well if the organisation representing Jehovah turns my service down basically saying I'm not good enough they cannot be doing Gods' will' - It would have been much much better for me if I had committed adultery just gone with ANY woman than under WT rules I could have just claimed repentance , got a divorce and then after a while be a bro of good standing again! does that make sense? you have to commit a sin in order to be of good standing? well anyway , I'm out now and see things as they really are - I am NOT a bad person still believe in God and Jesus but it's so much better now I have taken my WT indoctrination glasses off!! - all the best to you sis ...

[@jennyparfum]

I was raised as a JW not baptized, I was shunned anyway, later the teaching was that I was wrongly shunned. My mom still visites me, sometimes brings a sister with her, and they always start to talk about their believe, for me that's okay, I tell them where I believe they are wrong. Sometimes we talk for hours about religion. But it's a bit strange, I'm not shunned, but what if I was baptized and shunned? What is the difference? I'm a 'bad' influence anyway, shunned or not, because I believe differently.

[@AnArchyRulzz]

Just shows how nonsensical the rules truly are

[@AR-ql7py]

I'm in that same weird loophole. Any day could be the day my JW family could be done with me and my kids for good. It's so stressful!

[@aLev-s3n3ctus]

I wish that's what I did. I wish that's what my situation was. But nope, as soon as I hop out of the train, it will be buh-bye for me....

[@Cindy-cf5vf]

You will be shunned if you are baptized and have sinned. Thats because you made a covenant with your God when baptized.

[@scottslater7704]

I left the JW life about 20 years ago and it took about 10yrs before i could challenge my own (JWs) belief system. I wasn't disfellowshipped and experienced no major shunning fortunately. Most of my family weren't in the 'truth'' and my 'Worldly?) old friends were happy i got back in touch and were totally unjudgmental and pretty good for the soul if honest. I couple of witnesses have turned away and ignored but that dont matter. think its pretty silly. . My bro's started to study recently and my Moms getting more involved again i think. They've sent a couple of prompts hints through the mobile but i really am unconvinced by the org now. Still keeping an open mind and doing the best i can for me and my little family, and there's nothing wrong with that

[@exjwfifth9838]

This came out great Lloyd! Thanks again for having me on

[@LloydEvans]

You were superb my friend, thanks so much for joining me! You never disappoint! ;)

[@trevorz459]

@@LloydEvans Why is the channel called John Cedars if your name is Lloyd lol

[@mervjohnson2140]

@@trevorz459 Yes I Was Wondering About that Too

[@exjwfifth9838]

WWZenaDo thanks!

[@msrocky3292]

I 🧡💚 yall both thank yall for sharing this with us

[@joehinojosa8314]

I'm starting to feel like there are MORE EX- Jehovah's Witnesses,THAN current members.

[@sashamulligan2993]

Don’t forget there are all those who haven’t officially left due to severe consequences, but aren’t JW’s. I know several.

[@joehinojosa8314]

@@sashamulligan2993 FUNNY THEY WON'T LET ME JOIN COS I SPEAK MY MIND. AND ANSWER THEIR QUESTIONS WITH MY OWN QUESTIONS.

[@alans.wendelschafer6588]

@@sashamulligan2993 I'm one of those who haven't left because I am worried about losing everything and everyone.

[@alyssawoodman]

Waaaaaaaaaay more out than in for sure!

[@toryxjw9263]

A c.o told me once that if the house holder doesn’t respond to a bible scripture verbally .. then they do not have the right heart condition. So he can read hearts and minds

[@temptationbledsoe9796]

Lol or even like they say now, if people are not willing to listen to the message. They are not rightly disposed. They are masters at trying to manipulate people

[@vintage1950]

I was told this to.

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="2675">44:35</a> - They might have helped some to stop smoking but how many are now addicted to antidepressants because of this religion?

[@laurenbarnes6580]

I personally was addicted to xanax that was prescribed to me trying to numb the pain of being raised in this organization. Currently in therapy for everything.

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

@@laurenbarnes6580 - My wife is currently in therapy. But she does not take antidepressants. My mother used to take antidepressants right until she decided to fade from the organization.

[@StripperLicker]

Science (WEBMD) says "antidepressant medicines are not addictive; they do not make you 'high,' have a tranquilizing effect, or produce a craving for more.." They can be habit forming for some, but if you're stuck using them it is your doctor and your personal responsibility, no one elses. They have to be used properly in the short term and accompanied by other therapies to address the issues. You need a team of psychiatrist for meds, and psychologist for working therapies. Too many people just see a general MD to get the pills. That is not the best course. Further, there should be a full workup _before_ meds are given because often they are really needed.

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

@@StripperLicker - Yeah, tell that to half the brothers that I know in Puerto Rico that can't function without their "Happy Pills".

[@StripperLicker]

Efrain Rivera Junior Being a science-denier and basing your thoughts on incorrect colloquial stories shared by your "tribe" is exactly what WT conditions all JWs to do. If you _really_ want to get out of the cult, for real, you have to learn how to become educated, to think critically, and how to vet the information passed around in ordinary conversation. You're not doing that right now. You are simply rejecting information that does matches your strong confirmation bias. That is another WT-conditioned quality that you _must_ purge to be truly free. Good luck to you!

[@ritam2025]

Nailed it again, guys! What kills me is that if I showed any of these deceitful loopholes used in the FAQ to a JW family member, I am almost 100% sure that they would be totally fine with the wording. I find that very peculiar for a people that claim to (and most often truly do) adhere to a very honest life.

[@EXJWAnalyzer]

w05 2/15 pp. 12-17 "Christians-Be Proud of Who You Are!" - But Watchtower blatantly misrepresents who they are in their FAQ. 🤔

[@bessmcneill971]

I used the FAQ about shunning to convince my parent that, according to WT, we can have normal family relations as long as we do not associate spiritually. It worked and I believe my parent was relieved by the “loophole” because she accepted that lie like new light.

[@justdavelewis]

@@Peekaboo-Kitty They are fools, but they genuinely believe (most of the time) that they are in the right. So they believe they HAVE to shun you, otherwise they will get rejected by God. Plus, they will likely get disfellowshipped and lose all of their friends if they don't. Of course, this can lead to waking up and being better for the person overall, but it's such a huge part of their life.

[@Cindy-cf5vf]

@Bess McNeil , only two things normally leads to shunning. 1: a baptized Witness commits a serious sin. 2 he/she does not repent of his sin. Try to understand what the person did for them to be shunned not just questioning or leaving the organization. That never happens. Until then take care of yourself. Im am still one of Jw and proud.

[@Cindy-cf5vf]

@@Peekaboo-Kitty Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them . . . , teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19, 20) Thats why we reach out to people whether is their home or across the street. And we do it willingly not just women and children.😊

[@Cindy-cf5vf]

@@Peekaboo-Kitty I acknowledge that you know Jesus and you are a christian. But what does it mean to be a christian in your view? What did Jesus teach to his disciples about christianity? What sort of conduct should true Christians shun?lastly In what work should Christians take part?​

[@natejones8539]

Cindy Their are more people who get shunned from disagreeing so called New light from the Bible than you are aware of. They just become inactive. They don’t want to lose their family, so just stay quiet. Ultimately shunning of family members is not loving. If you are willing to cut off the kids you brought in this world then don’t have kids. Not necessarily to put family members through this stress. But the God you serve makes you draw a line between kids and parents.

[@sinemetu9037]

Very good video guys. The funny thing is that most JWs that are totally in would recognize that these FAQs are completely fudged to make it look attractive. As Lloyd pointed out how can any of it be the “truth” if you can’t or will not answer simple direct questions honestly.

[@jessicamarsh400]

I have not spoken to my father in over 2 yrs. And my younger brother in 20 yrs. This is the worst thing about being a JW and being shunned. Its mentally and physically abusive. I absolutely appreciate you discussing these topics so ppl will really know. Tytyty

[@jilliev.87]

I find it funny that when all the guys leave the Truth, they all grow beards!! 😂😂😂

[@brysonsharry3625]

Hahaha when my grandparents first saw my beard they said to my mum "he looks so worldly now" I guess beards are a bit of a statement

[@lemarfarrington7668]

Because you no longer have to wear their uniform. Lol

[@dr.riccardo3575]

Razors are expensive

[@officerfarva3666]

Beards are the equivalent of womens legs in my opinion. I remember feeling so liberated when I could wear shorts and skirts above the knee for once after I left.

[@austinhowley3907]

Now we actually look more like bible characters. Oh the irony

[@lorielhassani]

sex = resignation research = resignation voicing opinion = resignation writing a book = resignation calling the police on another jw = resignation not attending meetings = resignation disagreement = resignation

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

I've shared this experience before but here it goes again. A friend of mine allowed his 12 year old daughter to get baptized. Two years later the young girls decides that she does not want to be a Witness anymore. They helped her write the letter of disassociation and gave her up in adoption. The young girl was not a fornicator, drunkard, drug addict, murderer... and yet she lost all her friends and family.

[@observantdeprogrammed7974]

This cult will soon be led to destruction just like all other cults. They are so deceived that everyone else can see it but them. They are like suicide bombers.

[@MyThougths]

Omg

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

@@MyThougths - Sad, but true. I never heard from them again.

[@pinklilyblossom]

they gave her up for adoption! is that true?

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

@@pinklilyblossom - Completely true. My wife and I bumped into the young girl's parents and asked about her. We thought that she might've been on vacation with some family or something. Then they explained to us that she wanted to disassociate. So they helped her write the letter and gave her up in adoption. According to them, it was to spiritually protect the rest of the family. I openly speak about this on my channel (without mentioning names to protect the child's privacy) Oasis ex-Testigos de Jehova hoping that they see it and feel shame for what they did.

[@jilly7828]

Debunking in the bunker.....

[@gataheart]

Bunk deBunked!

[@americanidle1277]

The deBunker

[@toweypat]

Throwing the Watchtower off a cliff with Cliff.

[@beautyRest1]

@@toweypat funny....🥲😂😅

[@maxmaximus6018]

Hello I am a JW and I and planing to leave the organization because is a fals religion and I hawe many prouve I wil leave this spring is pretty hard but I will leave

[@bruderk4257]

I wish you all the best. It is the right choice.

[@tfneto2417]

Just plan everything Carefully before you leave

[@joytoyouandme4593]

I highly recommend building a new network of friends before leaving. Especially if you were born in and your family is in. It can be difficult when the shunning begins.

[@Jewelliet]

Praises and hallelujahs, Lord & Savior. I'm so grateful for what He did for me. I almost got baptized with them myself!! I am so happy and grateful for you! Let's pray for the rest of these deceived souls. Please help me to pray for them. There are so many of them whom I love, including two biological brothers who are elders, but our family situation is not good. I just recognize, now, that we do not fight against flesh and blood, so this is spiritual warfare that our family is dealing with. I truly hope my brothers give consent to the Lord's work and wake up.

[@Murderface666]

Been one from birth to 97. Got baptized in the summer of 97. Disfellowshipped for joining the Army to lift the financial burden off of my mother who broke her leg while I was a senior in high school. The "Elders" said I should have "prayed." That made me angry. And when other members of the congregation learned of what happened, there was a psychological split along the lines of the youth I grew up with and the families I was close to. To put a long story short, a lot of the people I grew up with disregarded the rule of shunning in secrecy, because they knew why I did what I did and the situation surrounding it. After getting out of the Army, my mom took me to one of the Circuit Assemblies. Everyone I came across even from other congregations did not hesitate to socialize with me. What were the elders going to do? Purge whole congregations with mass disfellowships? Even when my blood brother (who was baptized & more popular) was on trial for an incident when I was still serving, my family gave me a call to inform me what was happening. I requested leave and went to the court as a character witness. Before I had to leave to go back to base, my mother was telling me that most of the young women that showed up were hoping I would "return to the Truth" (for means of marriage). So in terms of "shunning," its largely depends on how much of an impact you were on people's lives and the situation. BUT keep in mind, breaking the rules are done with the utmost secrecy. Members knows which members are hardcore "scripture-thumping zealots." There is also a secret culture among the youth. You can tell the hardcore from the passive when nobody is watching. An unwritten underground rule is to not speak (about the Hall) in your regular life. Its for normalcy. You can say many of us had "triple lives:" *1. A persona when in front of the congregation. 2. A persona when in front of non-members ("worldly people"). 3. A persona when if front of members of congregation that you trust in private.* How does one gracefully fallout without repercussions? Simple. MOVE and move a considerable distance away, while keeping information ambiguous as possible. Some that get disassociated/disfellowshipped will sometimes get reinstated just for the status, then disappear to live their lives "inactive" as well with the option to return. The worst thing about JW is the indoctrination, especially if that's what you were raised on. You are taught at home that you have no friends outside of JW. This gave birth to No. 2 mentioned above to avoid the psychological affects of societal isolation as you will have no choice but to interact with people who are not JW on an overwhelming basis. This thinking of no "outside friends" serves as nothing more than brainwashing/mental conditioning to be depending on the organization in a cult-like fashion. And in many cases, many who break away often don't fair well in life. Think of a recently released prisoner thrown back into the world after serving the best parts of their years in confinement trying to navigate society. Its like the crackling of ice when you drop it in water.

[@fadedglory1045]

I was disassociated by the org when I was 15 for loose conduct”.i wasnt baptized so therefore not disfellowshipped. It was announced and treated like a DF. This was in the 70’s and I was completely shunned and invisible. Very little interaction with my immediate family. For a couple of years. It had a huge impact on how I have dealt with issues with other people. I tend to retreat and withdraw. I have little to no trust in any relationship. I even fear my own children will leave me if they get upset with me. ( completely unfounded) Hard to explain. It’s an underlaying fear. It did make me vehemently strong mother. Nothing and no one would ever separate me from them!

[@humbles19]

I understand your feelings of fear of people leaving you, I feel the same :(

[@mellara9269]

Please get help for post traumatic stress disorder, I suffered this until I got help please safe guard your mind.

[@joytoyouandme4593]

I completely understand, avoidance is typically my way of dealing. Much as it was growing up in the Borg. When my parents fought, I would shut myself in my bedroom and then act like I didn’t hear a thing. Nothing was ever dealt with in a healthy way.

[@Ava2969ny]

@@mellara9269 _ I have PTSD. Did you find a therapist who specializes in PTSD or some other method of help?

[@mellara9269]

@@Ava2969ny I looked & found a therapist that dealt with coming out of cults & spiritual abuse.

[@eddie7126]

Two Jehovah Witnesses visited my home, I spent two hours trying to explain to them the deity of Christ to no avail, I then asked them who is the savior of the world? One of them responded " it might be Jesus" I then responded "He either is or isn't the savior of the world." It's very sad to see them being deceived by the organization. When I was eight years old I remember picking up the bible for the first time and opening it to the book of John chapter 1 and as I read the first chapter I understood right there and then who Jesus Christ is. I had no one trying to explain this chapter to me, I wasn't confused, I kept thinking to myself and saying "wow" Jesus is my creator, I had a full understanding of the bible verse that reads "God was manifested in the flesh!" and that All things were created by Christ! Jw's say that jesus was a god but he can't be one because if he was a god then they're saying he was a false god because there's only one true God!

[@jiggyone868]

Both of you are deluded. Jesus is God? What a load of bullocks. What of Mohammed, Buddha, and the millions of other gods? You can't convince a witness on doctrine. You can wake them up when you show them lies from their publications

[@marie-clairedelongchamp1330]

Another great video! They are very misleading! Big difference between studying with JW’s & knowing the culture! Unfortunately, they get immersed in water, baptism, before immersing themselves into the JW culture! Big mistake, too late & must suffer the consequences 🥴😥

[@marie-clairedelongchamp1330]

Hello Kitty, no one stopped me, consequences = shunning, having to rebuild your social circle.(after 33 years in). 😞I disassociated as soon as I was aware of the hidden child sexual abuse cases & ARC. So yes, did tell them what I thought, & walked away! 😊.

[@marie-clairedelongchamp1330]

Hello Kitty Thanks for the encouragement, it’s going on a little over 8 months out, & I’ve done LOTS of research that has grounded my decision, & I am enjoying my newfound freedom! 😉

[@ivorputnam5958]

As an ex JW I am always pleased to see these videos. Im so glad that they are exposing those dreadful people for what they are.

[@philipwest4553]

Jehovah's witnesses will say they do not earn their salvation by going door to door because time after time when they encounter an evangelical christian they will be told over and over again that you cannot earn salvation because salvation is by grace and grace is ,as the NWT says, "undeserved kindness". You can't earn what is undeserved.

[@footstepsthroughhistory]

I have a question. At <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1857">30:57</a> we get Tony Morris's rant on the blood guilt of not regularly doing the preaching work. Okay. Do the Governing Body members themselves do the door-to-door work weekly? Does Tony Morris? I don't recall that they do, but I may be wrong. I thought they used the excuse that they write the literature and do other things so that exempts them from door-to-door work and all. But I think he is blood guilty if he doesn't do that. How do you stand there and say that to people when your ass hasn't been out, either? If they do go out, then I apologize. I thought they don't and that annoyed me that he said this to others. Seems hypocritical. P.S. - God, I hated doing the preaching work. I always got stuck with that one old zealous sister that would BANG on people's door on a Saturday morning at 9am. Dog's would start barking, babies would start crying and the house holder would come to the door half asleep and pissed off. It was such an uncomfortable experience. I don't miss that at all. 28 years in, 2 years out. Formally disassociated in December 2018. Best decision ever!

[@bruderk4257]

Two years out ? Congratulations

[@theresaakins2317]

A catholic I thought the same thing...does Tony Morris go door to door? I don't think so or, at the very least, occasionally.

[@MrCaradras]

Seconds ago I was wondering: "Hey, when is John Cedar's next video coming?"

[@LloydEvans]

It can only be Jehovah's hand in matters! ;)

[@saulgoodman505]

John Cedars or as my family says “ Satan’s hands are over this “ Keep up the good work

[@Jewelliet]

I'm so grateful for all his videos. Such reasonable insights. Amazing.

[@ivorputnam5958]

Hypocrisy is something the JWs teach very well.

[@jonacosta3327]

Hey there Lloyd. I left the organization 6 months ago partially thanks to you. And I was diagnosed with PTSD due to many of the things I went through. I would love to collaborate you to give a message to all the ex JWs who also suffer from PTSD and share my story of adjusting to life outside the organization.

[@BuckAken0319]

This notification just made my day

[@didsdods1358]

Hello mr evans, I was a son of an elder and me and my sister in blood are going to college, I was not baptized though but my older sister are, since I sjow her your videos she suddenly said, she doesn't believe the organization no more because the elder in our new congregation are toxic against jw people going for higher education, andy sister is currently a third year med student, and I was grade 12.

[@BuckAken0319]

The longer the video, the better. Thank you so much Lloyd

[@sunshineleonwilliams9902]

I've asked and elder.infact he's supposed to be co-ordinator of the body of elders for help in saving my marriage as I was going through a very painful separation..All he said is.. I'm very sorry to hear what you're going through..he took my phone number but never gave me a call or a visit.by the way my wife and I are both baptized witnesses.Yet the elder never did anything to give counseling or even arrange to try to contact my wife to give her some scriptural counsel..I learned a hard lesson..never go to the elders when you have a personal problem.You'll be shunned and looked down upon.

[@ArtfullyMusingLaura]

Great see you both together and another great episode. Your videos can never be too long.

[@h_man3488]

Great video. Briefly you mentioned that JW's are suppose to "break things off" if the personal bible studies aren't going anywhere, I would love to see you cover that video in the future

[@RandomPerson-js3rc]

My sister literally walked up to me and said she was no longer aloud to talk to me until I became reinstated. This is what she was obviously told she would have to do by congregational elders and her husband. If that's not shunning, what is?

[@darren8972]

First Like! I can 'like' before watching because i know its gonna be good (as usual). Greetings from Sydney

[@timbothegreat7767]

yes but he who is first shall be last, which technically bumps me up one place

[@darren8972]

Timbo the 'GREAT'.... I'm ok with that, because he who is the greatest among you shall become your servant. 😋 And as my servant, I command you go last ha ha

[@jilly7828]

Darren greetings from Canada ..I think I was first lol.. if not it was close

[@jilly7828]

Darren, what makes Timbo great?? No disrespect Timbo lol.. I just want credentials. . I mean I know why Alexander was great.

[@timbothegreat7767]

@@jilly7828 well, I'm 6ft 9 tall. How about that for a start? Alexander wasn't that tall

[@MonaLisa-yb9bq]

It took me a few years to get my ducks in a row to leave my husband (brother in good standing) from all his 20+ years of abuse to me and then the children. I was separated for 3 years and then got a no fault divorce because he had the bad bad habit of defrauding people; he would get people to give him money as an investment and then live off the funds. When brothers or sisters wanted their money back, he would tell them that it was an investment and thus he didn't have to pay it back. Some were stumbled and left the organization because of it. I divorced him for protection so that I didn't have to pay back any money to countless people he had borrowed money from. Then I had to stay faithful as a "single" sister, not being able to get married again. After 8 yrs. I fell into adultery and purposefully got disfellowshipped so that my ex could not brow beat me or have any evidence on me that I have not paid enough for my sins. He loves the rules of the Watchtower. Anyhow, he then called me a fornicating adultress. He said it hurt him to the corps. Liar, liar, pants on fire. (When I left him the second time, he had told someone that he was glad to get that depressed person out of his face). Such remorse. And now he is still reviling me by emails so I gave up one email address. That in itself is a disfellowshipping offense. Before I had left him the first time, he had punched me in the face so hard before a meeting, in the car, that I had a black eye for a week and a half. Nothing has ever happened to this man as to discipline, except a slap on the hand as private reproof. It's been horrific.

[@nickking8994]

I just noticed that you have reached 43k subscribers, I only found this channel a few months ago and at that time it was at 30k. This is an obvious blessing from Jehovah, and only through his will could this happen! Just a little joke, but in all seriousness; Well done, its videos like this that are the reason for your work growing!

[@randykulesia4646]

So does Anthony Morris or any of the GB go out in ministry? Or is there a double standard?

[@cwoodswalker4646]

Thanks to both of you for your efforts in making this video. I wish I had seen it before I was lead down a garden path and indoctrinated into the JW cult. Hopefully it will save others from the harm and hurt that results from associating with the Watch Tower.

[@joools1953]

Never been a JW, never will be a JW but I found this segment especially interesting. Contrasting the answers given on the website with the actual true answers to the FAQs was enlightening. Thank you Lloyd and Cliff.

[@jiggyone868]

Run when you see the Jw. Or better still use Socratic questions to wake them up

[@victoriagolmehdi8506]

Watching this in Jan 2022. How things have changed over the few intervening years. Lloyd has saved so many people from this cult and I am hopeful that he will be able to continue to save more once he has supported himself to get well again.

[@janheard3826]

Tony has blood on his hands…he prefers to go out buying whiskey than going out on the ministry.

[@jilly7828]

Shockingly good and honest dialogue... open your eyes people

[@RobLeeBea]

While in the organization I have seen a lot of mental illness and people taking medication. It is very stressful being a witness and I have helped many friends with suicidal thoughts. It’s just that witnesses and the governing body has an excuse for everything. It’s difficult to determine whether I want this Organization guiding my life or not since what they taught me made so much sense and many don’t find another truth after they leave it seems. It makes me wonder if this really is the truth and if everything else is Satan’s attacks trying to prove Jehovah a liar? It also makes me wonder if the Bible was written for population control I’m all open mind at this point looking at both sides. It sure seems like there’s supposed to be a righteous god.

[@armageddonouttahere8972]

The weirdest FAQ for me is ' can a person resign from being a JW?'. If you were unfamiliar with JWs, you wouldn't feel the need to ask that question. You would assume, rightly, that a person can stop doing or believing anything they want! How good of them to allow two ways in which you can 'resign'.

[@theresaakins2317]

Most religions will welcome you with open arms if you want to attend services. You don't have to have a Bible study just a willing heart, or downtrodden spirit. Or if you need guidance or counseling, they will give it to you. The WT just wants a convert and offers no spiritual services beyond the bible talk on Sunday. I was told when I 1st studied that we don't go door to door to make converts!

[@nicolerivas8399]

I dissociated myself as a Jehovah Witness but my husband still baptized and there aren't even call him or check on him that is very discouraging when he doctrinated since he was 13 months old

[@sandratodd6893]

Does the GB have blood guilt as I'm sure you wouldn't see the GB doing door to door preaching.

[@clarity2478]

Good point Sandra …. this is their job, we were just assisting them!

[@greghinkle6138]

Thanks Lloyd, it’s just incredible, this wishy washy whatcha ma call it!? Super work my friend.

[@shallowlove9507]

This is a great video. All points are very well explained in the simplest way. I have always questioned quietly in my mind as to why we don't tell the public what actually goes on as a JW. We don't tell them that the shunning policy exist. We don't tell them that it is a requirement for them to show progress in their bible study, we don't tell them that it is requirement to go to all meetings or else you will be considered spiritually weak. And that you can't express outloud that you disagree with certain human point of views imposed by the GB because you will be considered an apostate.

[@EveSieminski]

They draw people in with lies and half truths. They then take everything away and if they decide to leave they take everything away again. They are the very definition of a cult but instead of one man being venerated they have 8. If that wasn’t the case it would be easy to reason with them but they take what comes out of those idiots mouths as if God were talking. Love you both and what you do.

[@RitaMalikfour]

What happened to following Jesus, not men, what’s wrong with the j w s did they not read the bible, if they did they could bury the g b with no sweat 😓

[@byebyewatchtower]

If you do a search on the JW.borg website on the word "Disfellowshipped", you will find more information on disfellowshipping. The articles listed there will contradict what is stated in the FAQ section. The FAQ section is a way for people to get an answer that they need a short answer for and do not want to dig deeper. Once you dig deeper into the Watchtower's website using their search, much more information is found. Thanks Lloyd for your video.

[@theoracle56]

Great video. Have you seen the documentary regarding the Jonestown Massacre? It was Executive Produced by Leonardo DiCaprio. It was shown on the anniversary of the event. The reason I mention it is because after watching the two parter, I was alarmed by the similarities in this group with Jehovah's Witnesses namely the apocalyptic theme and how that affected the members and the leaders of the group. Even though people attribute the events solely to Jim Jones, in actuality it was what the members did when they felt threatened by the government and media and how he convinced the members that it was "their divine time" as in biblical prophecy to go because the outside world was closing in on their sacred religion. The way that this organization focuses on Armageddon and details events of an us versus theme leads me to believe that we have another Jonestown in the making. It is not just about false doctrine or mistakes in their teaching, but a higher threat to members that are continually conditioned with this idea that the government is going to come after them and the world is going to be destroyed. It is not a stretch that this organization could activate its members to "leave this world" completely and start mass panic because of impending Armageddon. There is a huge deal of undiagnosed mental illness in the leadership of this cult that can lead to mass hysteria just like in Jonestown. I appreciate your videos and I am concerned for my family members that are still in.

[@Israel2.3.2]

I remember how common it was for witnesses to say to householders "We aren't trying to convert you." Huh? The mind doesn't see itself unfortunately.

[@Israel2.3.2]

@Gary Barlow I thought I had moved on after moving away from my parents five years ago. I've since moved back to the same city and while it's quite nice having the opportunity to frequently converse with my parents and little sister I've again noticed the ever lurking shadow of Watchtower propaganda lying behind every conversation. I delight in philosophical conversation for example and yet the Witnesses can never really be honest with themselves. A conversation about truth leads to a discussion about the literature and its veracity which leads naturally towards a consideration of the governing body and whether it's authority is justified. Yet I never speak to my parents and sister about the governing body because I know that it could put strains on our relationship. To my mind this fact points to an important truth regarding the Witness mind, it is a mind that has been conditioned not ask certain critical questions while also being encouraged to "address its doubts." If Watchtower mind control isn't worthy of being mocked for it's immorality then nothing is.

[@rachelbritton3498]

Blood transfusions often provide a LONGER /BETTER quality of life for those with chronic conditions that will eventually kill them no matter what treatment they do or do not accept. This means nothing to the organization, nor do they think of the families that are left to deal with the loss of the family member from a premature death!

[@atreo336]

I have never been a jw and I started researching them because a person from my partner's family is very fanatic and trying to create issues. I noticed immediately how vague their literature is, they will always kind of give you advice and tell you what to do but without telling you, they put very critical information out there but without quoting sources, a lot of it doesn't make any sense and for sure they disguise their truth to make it sound better than it is. Thanks for sharing these videos!

[@darrylthompson7509]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="607">10:07</a> they intervene in marriages as much as possible.

[@jeannieyerigan9425]

Great Video Gentlemen ! Thanks to both of you !

[@micheleost]

They disassociate you for taking blood to not find themselves sued! For NO OTHER REASON!!

[@ssdsd5394]

Michele Ostrowski Yeap. It gave me an idea though. I managed to get out and they can't do anything about it even though they *really* wanted to. 😎 Kind of disappointed in a way. Really could have used the money for something good like a short college coarse.🤔 It's getting better but the more I learn the more I feel stupid for the wasted years. Better late than never I guess. 😆

[@kawaii-pigeon]

Okay but listen that whole 'are jws a cult' I remember asking my aunt about that and her answer was "A cults easy to get into and hard to leave" and she described witnesses as "hard to get in and easy to leave"... right... 'easy' to leave

[@alucardshane4080]

Please I hope this cult ends

[@johnsequoia7962]

Is it just me, or is Lloyd's voice sexier and more melodious on the new sound equipment in the bunker ;p

[@barbarahedges1791]

what ? this is about JW's cult and their lie's and false teachings, not Lloyd's voice being sexy ???????????? What ?

[@williamsawyer9894]

The acoustics seem better in the bunker.

[@marvalice3455]

"our religion has helped many quit abusing drugs and alcohol" this is actually true of all religions. the fact that changing your religion helps overcome bad destructive habits is a documented phenomenon in everything from islam to voodoo. it's the religious equivalent of "I liker sugar".

[@kerry6694]

Great observations as always

[@MsSurferchik]

Resigning as a Jehovah’s Witness... does this mean instant disfellowshipping?

[@alans.wendelschafer6588]

Yes. You are essentially disfellowshipping yourself.

[@renaissanista1455]

The word Fifth used....delegitamize....that is BIG....definitely applied to shunning but also to dying due to the blood issue. I had a former fellow pioneer friend of mine die giving birth to her first child ( in her twenties). She died refusing blood. Few think about it but it makes my blood boil to hear people say that she might have died anyway with blood or that it was medically safer not to take blood. It's not so much whether or not it's Biblically wrong to take blood, but they go as far cheapening this young woman's sacrifice for beliefs in turning it into, "well, maybe she would have died anyway". Dellegitamizing sacrifice and suffering.....Watchtower Sadism at its best.

[@amsevensix]

Great job Guys! Lloyd, you should reposition your computer so it's easier to address audience. Just a thought. Love you guys! Two of my favorite apostates!!!

[@kirstenornelas881]

My own dad was made into one of their martyred "faithful to the end" stories after bleeding through his dam skin because platelets were a huge no but oh wait btw if you make it that far you can make your own conscience up to either accept or deny bone marrow. Smh the organization is so freaking shady when it comes to all these rules they want you to follow until the governing body is effected then all of a sudden "new light" makes it ok to think about but still remember you might stumble your brother which would make you blood guilty, again pushing you to avoid that treatment.

[@searchingfortruth1274]

Which video shows the writers of Watchtower and Awake stealing others info and photos? I want to share it.

[@shadesofgray5476]

What do you think the Org's motive is for being so wrong and so stubborn about covering up child abuse? I do not understand why they would willing to stick to that when it is causing multiple court settlements to be paid out. That's one time when reasonableness has gone out the window. Is there some more sinister reason for this?

[@lucillelee3272]

I was brought up in the Jehovah's Witness faith though have not been baptised. I'm 78 years of age the witnesses are trying to tell me I need to get baptised as according to them I know the Truth. When my mother was pregnant with me she was told by one of the female 144,000. ( YES A FEMALE OF THAT STATUS ) What she'd have to endure being pregnant going through ARMAGEDDON with me. I've always had thoughts females do NOT get acknowledgment they so deserve in most religions, You could say the males get the cake the cherries icing cream plus acknowledgement . While females get the leftover crumbs after the male feast.. Plus the plates to wash time after time after time... Until I as a female am acknowledged in religion I'll pass them all by....

[@debraallen2132]

By now it's evident to me Jehovah's witnesses are liars. They prove it time and again. I'll trust my fellow apostates any day ! Thank you for your work. By the way , we who left are much more fun , interesting and more loveable.

[@David-pc1ut]

On blood...I remember being allowed to bike to school at the age of ten and having a talk with my parents about the 'no blood' card I had to put in my wallet. And why.. From day 1 I hid the card under my bed before leaving to school and put it back in my wallet when I got back home :)

[@barbaramullins4233]

Talking out of both sides of their mouths with both their two faces

[@Geohovahs_Hand]

I love the "Do Jehovah's Witnesses believe in Creationism" question. Its just another example of how the JWs like to come up with their own definitions for words, like they did with the words "Generation," (two groups of contemporaries, one alive in 1914 and another group born within the lifetimes of the first group) or "True Science." (Scientific evidence that doesn't contradict what we believe) This type of behavior should serve as a red flag, warning people, that this organization is in the business of creating their own version of "truth," which is not based on reality. JWS are ok accepting evidence that the earth is 4.5 billion years old, because they no longer teach that each creative day encompassed 7000 years as they did, I believe prior to the 1980s. They say that the earth being billions of years old is not in conflict with the Genesis account of creation, because they claim that the creative days at Genesis 1, encompassed large unspecified lengths of time, based on the fact that the Hebrew word for Day, Yom, does not always refer to a literal day in the Bible. This makes no sense in light of the context of how "Yom" is used in chapter 1. It is a blatant assumption that Yom refers to "unspecified lengths of time," especially since each creative day is said to have an "evening" and a "morning." (Gen. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="65">1:5</a>, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31) That sounds pretty literal to me. The crazy-ass Young Earth Creationist Ken Ham, rightly points out that it is wrong for Old Earth Creationists (the ones who believe, rightly so, that the earth is 4.5 billion years old) to assume that the "days" mentioned in Genesis, must figuratively refer to epochs lasting hundreds of millions of years. If Old-Earth Creationists, like the JWs, really interpret the Bible by taking into account its textual, cultural and historical context, then they should believe that everything in the Universe was created in 6 literal days. So the JWs, who claim to NOT be Creationists in the answer to the question, are either lying , or ignorant of the fact that there are both Old-Earth and Young-Earth Creationists, as Lloyd pointed out. The JW organizations propaganda machine renders the bulk of the flock completely ignorant to strong scientific evidence that goes against their beliefs, as well as the fact that words (ie Creationist) can have more than one definition. They dishonestly make up their own definition of Creationism, so that in their minds, the public won't associate them with the Young-Earth Creationists, who most educated people, regard as bat-shit crazy. They do this while ignoring the fact, that there is absolutely no scientific evidence that man and a woman magically popped into existence in 4026 BCE, or that Mount Everest along with the whole world was underwater a mere 4,389 years ago.

[@isaactochtli7126]

I'm being shunned my self!

[@footstepsthroughhistory]

Many of us are :/

[@grammawpayton]

Very interesting conversation and observations on how WT introduces itself, thank you both for the video. The poignant question at the end struck a chord with my experiences as well.

[@roidroid]

If the FAQ article starts with YES, then that means the real answer is NO. The formula is embarrassingly simple, it is dishonest as a RULE, & i have to wonder how many JWs have been woken up by that FAQ.

[@kirstenornelas881]

Yea... that is why 3 elders come to the hospital making sure you and your family adhere to the rules. Smh

[@barbjoz63]

Listening to this made me so mad!!!! Great job raising my blood pressure. Seeing the lies, half truths, strawmen, and gas lighting was infuriating (and enlightening). Really good job you two. Fifth is a charm. I wonder if there is a way to expand or drill down on this. Like a white paper or something that shows these JW statements and your rebuttals side by side. I dunno but this was very powerful.

[@dustystarr2297]

As usual you’re on point and shining a light on this corrupt organization. Thank you for all your work!

[@rachelfeiler1122]

Oh wow - so much in this to make my blood boil and do eye-rolls at the same time!! Some good points to try n remember when chatting to jws SE style I think. Thanks Lloyd and Fifth - this was a great video.

[@KA-pd2oq]

Bait and hook. The organization is incredibly manipulative and sadistic! Thank you both for the video!!

[@sethlaburda308]

Sounds like we need to counter with some of our own list of questioning... we will call it "questions exdubs ask and answers that are way more truthful ".....😄 you would think they would change up their module for deceiving/preying on needy in times of distress...

[@MyThougths]

They are so deceptive... if you're a JW you KNOW

[@melissast.louismo4522]

Huh, I wasn't aware that the blood policy was written by a Doctor of Hematology! I'm being sarcastic of course. I'm appalled at the stupidity of this policy, especially since it is carried out by elders that have zero medical education. My elderly JW mother was visited by no less than 3 elders at hospital when it was learned that she needed surgery. Of course, this was to make sure she would refuse blood. Although the surgery went well, she was quite anemic and the hematologist desperately wanted her to receive blood protein, in fact she would die without the infusion. I knew from videos that "blood fraction" were allowed and phoned one of those elders to find out what's allowed. He was completely uneducated and clueless! I got on the org website to find information on this subject. It made no sense at all. I went ahead and told mom that she could have the treatment, knowing what she needed probably was against the policy. I'm not a doctor, I just know she's alive and doing well today, no thanks to those idiot elders and that evil policy.

[@humbles19]

Clever play on words from WT, as always! Thanks for the video and love Cliff. I'm going to have to use your saying, something about 'that's not a hill to die on' :)

[@Danuvox117]

that blood transfusion section pisses me off my grandmother died because she wouldn't take a blood transfusion so it is bullshit of them to say they usually fare better because they don't take blood absolute horse shit!

[@XOfebruarystarXO]

I'm having a hard time watching through to the end because I'm getting infuriated. These are all things I've had issues with having to abide by when it didn't make complete sense to me, but if I'm not in agreement then I am a bad person.

[@williamsawyer9894]

Thank you for shining a spotlight on the infelicitous practices of JW.org. You might consider doing a similar video (or series of videos) on the "What the Bible Really Teaches" book.

[@leetrippii1830]

They are very misleading. They must study illusionist..

[@GREEKTEDDY]

Thank you

[@clarity2478]

Great to see you Fifth!

[@exjwfifth9838]

Clarity 2 thank you :-)

[@philipalmond6908]

A new world full of Elders,CO JW rules and regulations That sounds like hell