An Atheist's View of the Witnesses' Memorial Service (1 Viewer)

[LittleNipper]

I'm torn ----- really torn. As I Christian, I do not appreciated a few choice words this guy uses. BUT, can I hold him to my Christian standard? And frankly, I've hit my thumb and OH YES! I've slipped --- and I'm sorry... And the guy that cut me off in traffic and nearly cause an accident with my child in the car, for a moment I wanted to beat him up in a very bad way --- very bad. Excuses don't make it correct, no matter how good the intention may seem. This is what CHRIST came to save me from ---- myself and ALL my repeated failures. But anyway, this man is quite observant and presents his critique of the JWs in a way I cannot. So, I've watched the whole thing. He makes very valid points that I agree with. Hollow. Shallow. No CHRIST. No hope. The worship of being somehow "correct" about everything --- isn't what Christianity is about. Perhaps this atheist will one day see the CHRISTIAN difference and come to know CHRIST. But he seems to be searching and he does see real differences. "And that concludes our memorial service."

 

[nota bene]

Not sure what your thread's point is here, but I made it only 32 seconds into your video. He has a piano all the way open to collect dust and damage the instrument when he probably doesn't even play it, so strike 1 right there. He makes strange growly noises and drops an f-bomb, and this is all he has to offer in 30 seconds? Why would I be interested in his video after this?

 

[LittleNipper]

Not sure what your thread's point is here, but I made it only 32 seconds into your video. He has a piano all the way open to collect dust and damage the instrument when he probably doesn't even play it, so strike 1 right there. He makes strange growly noises and drops an f-bomb, and this is all he has to offer in 30 seconds? Why would I be interested in his video after this?

It is evident that even this Atheist realizes that they are not practicing Christianity. They are all about being correct and different, but have or at least show no love for CHRIST at any time during this "memorial service" ----- no matter who they believe HIM to be. They also are separated into two classes. Those that will remain here on planet earth forever and those that will go to heaven to be with JEHOVAH. Only 144,000 will fit there, but of course the "Minister" Charles Taze Russell claimed to be one of the 144,000 ---probably because he is the founder of the Witnesses and that gave him extra points above everyone else.... But he would take the bread and juice. You may wish to skip through. I get it ---- the guy, Gerred uses some vulgarity. But if you skip over his vulgar outbursts, he makes sincere and poignant observations. But in fact he is does show his frustration that anyone could be so manipulated, and indeed I do get it. And if nothing else he is honest. PS> Perhaps he plays piano and just forgot to close the lid... I've seen pianos left open before; however, such has nothing to do with HIS observations of what others do or do not do.

 

[Girlpower]

I'm torn ----- really torn. As I Christian, I do not appreciated a few choice words this guy uses. BUT, can I hold him to my Christian standard? And frankly, I've hit my thumb and OH YES! I've slipped --- and I'm sorry... And the guy that cut me off in traffic and nearly cause an accident with my child in the car, for a moment I wanted to beat him up in a very bad way --- very bad. Excuses don't make it correct, no matter how good the intention may seem. This is what CHRIST came to save me from ---- myself and ALL my repeated failures. But anyway, this man is quite observant and presents his critique of the JWs in a way I cannot. So, I've watched the whole thing. He makes very valid points that I agree with. Hollow. Shallow. No CHRIST. No hope. The worship of being somehow "correct" about everything --- isn't what Christianity is about. Perhaps this atheist will one day see the CHRISTIAN difference and come to know CHRIST. But he seems to be searching and he does see real differences. "And that concludes our memorial service."

I watched half of it but really have a hard time listening to an atheist criticize others for how they worship.

He's not even a believer himself yet he is judging others on their beliefs?

He just seems like a guy who wanted to monetize a Youtube channel and had to pick something that not a lot of people were doing yet.

So he picked this.

 

[LittleNipper]

I watched half of it but really have a hard time listening to an atheist criticize others for how they worship.

He's not even a believer himself yet he is judging others on their beliefs?

He just seems like a guy who wanted to monetize a Youtube channel and had to pick something that not a lot of people were doing yet.

So he picked this.

Try to continue watching. What he comes to criticize is not them, not the worship, but their seeming lack of it. Their robotic readings on even this supposed special day of what is expected of the congregants. And the passing around of the elements of the LORD's Supper without really participating, but just letting it pass by. This event was pointless and anticlimactic ---- just another procedure to carry out once a year without any personal connection whatsoever. His frustration of why do they even bother was very clear.

 

[Girlpower]

Try to continue watching. What he comes to criticize is not them, not the worship, but their seeming lack of it. Their robotic readings on even this supposed special day of what is expected of the congregants. And the passing around of the elements of the LORD's Supper without really participating, but just letting it pass by. This event was pointless and anticlimactic ---- just another procedure to carry out once a year without any personal connection whatsoever. His frustration of why do they even bother was very clear.

You know the same thing could be said about him.

I don't agree with their religious views but I don't criticize the way they worship and there is no wrong way to worship, everyone does it differently.

If they want to be all technical about it than fine for them. If they want to dance around with snakes then fine for them also.

The point he is missing is that they are worshipping which is something he doesn't do.

He really has no right to be criticizing others for something he doesn't do and has no interest in doing himself. Why does he even care since he doesn't believe any of it at all anyway?

Like I said, he wants to monetize Youtube.

You know you made another thread on this subject about churches thinking only their way of worship is acceptable and that's exactly what this guy is doing.

 

[Metanoia]

You know you made another thread on this subject about churches thinking only their way of worship is acceptable and that's exactly what this guy is doing.

Knowing about Christianity or the Bible is very different than being a Christian…..whose resume is more impressive ? The Good Samaritan or a knowledgeable Pharisee ? Knowing vs. doing/being…..

 

[Girlpower]

Knowing about Christianity or the Bible is very different than being a Christian…..whose resume is more impressive ? The Good Samaritan or a knowledgeable Pharisee ? Knowing vs. doing/being…..

You cannot know what's in someone's heart.

Most that meet me in normal life would probably never guess that I am a Christian because that's just the way I am.

I imagine that for some, being technical in their faith is what works for them the best. You don't need to be a "Holy Roller" to worship God so just because they don't display emotion doesn't mean they aren't just as serious about it.

Actually if I didn't disagree with their doctrine that would be the kind of Church I would prefer.

 

[LittleNipper]

You know the same thing could be said about him.

I don't agree with their religious views but I don't criticize the way they worship and there is no wrong way to worship, everyone does it differently.

If they want to be all technical about it than fine for them. If they want to dance around with snakes then fine for them also.

The point he is missing is that they are worshipping which is something he doesn't do.

He really has no right to be criticizing others for something he doesn't do and has no interest in doing himself. Why does he even care since he doesn't believe any of it at all anyway?

Like I said, he wants to monetize Youtube.

You know you made another thread on this subject about churches thinking only their way of worship is acceptable and that's exactly what this guy is doing.

You may be unaware: however, Witnesses do not worship JESUS, they regard HIM as a creation of "Jehovah". And at the very same time they themselves are afraid of don't anything wrong so they do only what they are told. It is more about their organization than anything else. The reality is that visitors come to a "service" at any church for a variety of reasons. However, if the Holy Spirit isn't there what's the point? I know a guy (an atheist) who was invited to a Bible study by a classmate, and he came and he admitted later that he didn't expect anything, but he was drawn back several times and he found the LORD JESUS. This young guy is now totally turned on for the LORD. And frankly, that is what Church service is all about. It's about GOD, and not a social club for following established rules and regulation. That isn't worship. The Atheist above may go with an agenda; however, that doesn't mean that he will leave without CHRIST ------- unless CHRIST isn't found there.

 

[Daisy]

I'm torn ----- really torn. As I Christian, I do not appreciated a few choice words this guy uses. BUT, can I hold him to my Christian standard? And frankly, I've hit my thumb and OH YES! I've slipped --- and I'm sorry... And the guy that cut me off in traffic and nearly cause an accident with my child in the car, for a moment I wanted to beat him up in a very bad way --- very bad. Excuses don't make it correct, no matter how good the intention may seem. This is what CHRIST came to save me from ---- myself and ALL my repeated failures. But anyway, this man is quite observant and presents his critique of the JWs in a way I cannot. So, I've watched the whole thing. He makes very valid points that I agree with. Hollow. Shallow. No CHRIST. No hope. The worship of being somehow "correct" about everything --- isn't what Christianity is about. Perhaps this atheist will one day see the CHRISTIAN difference and come to know CHRIST. But he seems to be searching and he does see real differences. "And that concludes our memorial service."

lol...that's some obsession you got there...we really get under your skin, huh...maybe you should concentrate on working out your own salvation more and less on how others are working theirs out...just sayin'...

 

[LittleNipper]

You cannot know what's in someone's heart.

Most that meet me in normal life would probably never guess that I am a Christian because that's just the way I am.

I imagine that for some, being technical in their faith is what works for them the best. You don't need to be a "Holy Roller" to worship God so just because they don't display emotion doesn't mean they aren't just as serious about it.

Actually if I didn't disagree with their doctrine that would be the kind of Church I would prefer.

I can only speak for myself, but I have been asked if I was a CHRISTIAN. And when I answered to the affirmative ---- the response I've gotten has been, "I thought so ---- there was something different about you." One time I was at a "bar" with my wife where we went country dancing and a person came up to me and said, "Are you a Christian." In high school, I had a classmate come out and say, "MAN, no matter the topic: English, science, sports, television. girls, music -------, YOU always seem to bring GOD into it. What's with you?" Another time in US History 102, I started to make a point about the Founding Fathers and connecting it with faith and a guy in the back chimed in, "And here we go!" Think of Ralph Kramden of the Honey Mooners. We laugh over it now. The guy later became a Christian. But the point is CHRIST should become an integral part of one's makeup, and not just an article found in some magazine. And I'm not as intense as I may sound. These are events over years. I wish I was more interactive, but I don't like to be put on the spot. And yet I feel GOD is continually working on that aspect of me. I like my anonymity, because it's easy to hide. But more and more I feel compelled, moved, encouraged to say something/do something, and I'm convinced that it's the HOLY SPIRIT and not me...

 

[dairyair]

I'm torn ----- really torn. As I Christian, I do not appreciated a few choice words this guy uses. BUT, can I hold him to my Christian standard? And frankly, I've hit my thumb and OH YES! I've slipped --- and I'm sorry... And the guy that cut me off in traffic and nearly cause an accident with my child in the car, for a moment I wanted to beat him up in a very bad way --- very bad. Excuses don't make it correct, no matter how good the intention may seem. This is what CHRIST came to save me from ---- myself and ALL my repeated failures. But anyway, this man is quite observant and presents his critique of the JWs in a way I cannot. So, I've watched the whole thing. He makes very valid points that I agree with. Hollow. Shallow. No CHRIST. No hope. The worship of being somehow "correct" about everything --- isn't what Christianity is about. Perhaps this atheist will one day see the CHRISTIAN difference and come to know CHRIST. But he seems to be searching and he does see real differences. "And that concludes our memorial service."

Based on recent exchanges.
You are not really a Xtian. You are a Saulian.

So, go easy on yourself. You'll have the same afterlife as the atheist, the muslim, and yourself.

 

[LittleNipper]

Based on recent exchanges.
You are not really a Xtian. You are a Saulian.

So, go easy on yourself. You'll have the same afterlife as the atheist, the muslim, and yourself.

My educated guess, is that you do not like to face personal sin in your life, and so you vilify the messenger.

 

[LittleNipper]

lol...that's some obsession you got there...we really get under your skin, huh...maybe you should concentrate on working out your own salvation more and less on how others are working theirs out...just sayin'...

My salvation has already been worked out by JESUS CHRIST MY LORD. I want to see people saved and free, not in chains of fear and manipulated.

 

[Metanoia]

Actually if I didn't disagree with their doctrine that would be the kind of Church I would prefer.

Funny but I am finding the opposite to be true. To choose a church that you agree with seems to be ego confirmation…..and what is productive about that ? I prefer to have my beliefs challenged and by allowing this I must more deeply grasp any justification that I might have for my personal beliefs……I realize that few people would choose this path but I am leery of joining a tribe….

 

[LittleNipper]

Funny but I am finding the opposite to be true. To choose a church that you agree with seems to be ego confirmation…..and what is productive about that ? I prefer to have my beliefs challenged and by allowing this I must more deeply grasp any justification that I might have for my personal beliefs……I realize that few people would choose this path but I am leery of joining a tribe….

With some churches they have adult Sunday school classes on various topics and weekly Bible studies where one may ask a question or present a contrasting view backed up with additional scripture. With other churches ---- one has to follow that organization's itinerary, and questions or any other viewpoint are simply awkward to say the least. As I CHRISTIAN I want fellowship, not a one way conversation with permanent strangers.

 

[Metanoia]

. As I CHRISTIAN I want fellowship, not a one way conversation with permanent strangers.

Not anything to do with strangers but as a one time SS teacher I hated it if the minister attended the class……so many people would go silent in deference to the minister……end of discussion…..

 

[bomberfox]

lol...that's some obsession you got there...we really get under your skin, huh...maybe you should concentrate on working out your own salvation more and less on how others are working theirs out...just sayin'...

God can do nothing to us so this threat is empty. Ive never been worried about god, just his believers.

 

[Daisy]

My salvation has already been worked out by JESUS CHRIST MY LORD. I want to see people saved and free, not in chains of fear and manipulated.

Sure...uh huh...the process continues until you die...BTW, your haughty attitude is showing big time...

"But the one who has endured to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:13

"By your endurance you will preserve your lives." Luke 21:19

"For you need endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the fulfillment of the promise." Hebrews 10:36

"but have fallen away, it is impossible to revive them again to repentance, because they nail the Son of God to the stake again for themselves and expose him to public shame." Hebrews 6:6

"For if we practice sin willfully after having received the accurate knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins left," Hebrews 10:26

 

[Daisy]

Funny but I am finding the opposite to be true. To choose a church that you agree with seems to be ego confirmation…..and what is productive about that ? I prefer to have my beliefs challenged and by allowing this I must more deeply grasp any justification that I might have for my personal beliefs……I realize that few people would choose this path but I am leery of joining a tribe….

The challenges should come before you join...if/when you cannot prove them wrong with the Bible, then join...that is exactly why/how I became a JW...

 

[Daisy]

God can do nothing to us so this threat is empty. Ive never been worried about god, just his believers.

K...

 

[Metanoia]

The challenges should come before you join...if/when you cannot prove them wrong with the Bible, then join...that is exactly why/how I became a JW...

To each his own of course……the challenge for me will always remain to connect with the Spirit which I regard as a level beyond the written word….it is that which leads us into all truth with thanks to the Bible for that insight…