Joseph Franklin Rutherford
Full Name and Common Aliases
Joseph Franklin Rutherford was born on November 29, 1869, and passed away on January 8, 1942.
Birth and Death Dates
His life spanned 72 years, marked by significant accomplishments that continue to influence various aspects of society today.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Rutherford held American nationality and worked as a lawyer and judge before entering the field of theology. He is best known for his role as the second president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
Early Life and Background
Joseph Franklin Rutherford was born in Boonville, Missouri, to John Thomas Rutherford and Margaret O'Neal Rutherford. His early life was marked by hardship, with both parents passing away when he was just 12 years old. He then moved to live with his grandmother, who raised him until her death a few years later.
Rutherford's educational journey began at the age of six and continued through grade school and high school. After completing his education, he went on to study law at Washington University in St. Louis and was admitted to the bar in 1897.
Major Accomplishments
As the second president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, Rutherford played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's teachings and direction. He took over as president in 1916 after Charles Taze Russell's death.
Rutherford oversaw significant changes within the organization during his tenure, including the introduction of new doctrine and practices that would eventually lead to the formation of distinct branches from the original Watch Tower movement.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions associated with Rutherford include:
- Establishment of the "Millions Now Living Will Never Die" slogan: This phrase became a hallmark of his presidency, emphasizing the organization's belief in the potential for eternal life.
- Development of the "New World" concept: Rutherford's vision for a new world order was central to the Watch Tower movement's teachings and continues to influence followers today.
- Promotion of the "Kingdom Hall" model: He introduced this concept, which emphasizes the importance of community worship spaces in the organization's doctrine.
Impact and Legacy
Rutherford's presidency had far-reaching impacts on various aspects of society. While opinions about his leadership vary widely, his legacy is undeniable.
Many see Rutherford as a visionary leader who brought significant changes to the Watch Tower movement. His emphasis on eternal life and a new world order resonated with many followers and has contributed to the organization's continued growth.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Joseph Franklin Rutherford remains widely quoted and remembered due to his pivotal role in shaping the teachings of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. His influence extends beyond the organization, influencing discussions on topics such as eternal life and the concept of a new world order.
Rutherford's quotes often reflect his strong convictions about these matters. They continue to inspire debate and reflection among those interested in theology and the impact of religious movements on society.
Quotes by Joseph Franklin Rutherford
Joseph Franklin Rutherford's insights on:
Man is more than merely an animal to exist and propagate his species. His mind gives him capacity to search out the great truths in God’s arrangement and this lifts him far above the other animal creation.
The Bible shows the clear statement of God’s purposes concerning the earth, and man once made its prince. Its opening chapters show that it was intended for man’s instruction.
By his disobedience of God’s law, before man had exercised his power to bring children into the earth, not only Adam lost everything for himself, but his children were born as sinners, imperfect, and without the right to live.
God created the first man, whom he called Adam. Then God created a woman, whom he named Eve; and this man and woman were given the power from Jehovah God to reproduce their kind, that is to say, to cause conception and birth of children.
Man is more than merely an animal to exist and propagate his species. His mind gives him capacity to search out the great truths in God's arrangement and this lifts him far above the other animal creation.
The constellation of the Pleiades is a small one compared with others which scientific instruments disclose to the wondering eyes of man.
THE harp is a musical instrument invented many centuries ago. When properly strung and played upon it yields sweet music, making glad the heart.