Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society
A Global Organization Promoting Biblical Education
The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society is a non-profit organization with headquarters in Warwick, New York, USA. Founded in 1881 by Charles Taze Russell, the society has grown into a global community with millions of members.
Full Name and Common Aliases
Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania; Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; Religious Organization
The organization is best known for its dissemination of religious literature through door-to-door canvassing, publications, and digital platforms. Its primary goal is to share the message of salvation with people from diverse backgrounds.
Early Life and Background
Charles Taze Russell, a lay preacher from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was instrumental in establishing the Watch Tower Society. He had studied biblical scriptures and developed a unique interpretation of Christianity, emphasizing the importance of Bible study and individual research.
In 1870, Russell began holding Bible studies with like-minded individuals. As his teachings gained popularity, he formed the Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society in 1881, which later became known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
Major Accomplishments
- Establishment of Kingdom Halls: The organization built hundreds of Kingdom Halls worldwide, serving as community centers for spiritual growth.
- Publication of Study Bibles: The society released various study bibles, such as the New World Translation, which has been translated into over 200 languages.
- Literature Distribution: Through door-to-door canvassing and literature campaigns, Watch Tower Society has disseminated millions of publications worldwide.
Notable Works or Actions
The organization is also known for its annual publication, _The Watchtower_, which contains articles and commentary on biblical teachings. Its digital platforms offer a range of educational materials, videos, and online courses.
Impact and Legacy
With over 130 years of history, the Watch Tower Society has had a profound impact on global Christianity. Its advocacy for Bible study and individual research has inspired countless individuals to delve deeper into their faith.
While some critics have raised concerns regarding certain aspects of the organization's teachings, its commitment to spreading biblical education remains unchanged.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
The Watch Tower Society is widely recognized for its dedication to sharing spiritual knowledge with people worldwide. Its emphasis on community building and personal growth has created a vast network of like-minded individuals who share a common purpose: to promote the kingdom of God.
Through its numerous publications, digital platforms, and outreach programs, this organization continues to be an influential force in global Christianity.
Quotes by Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society
Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society's insights on:
When under trial, let no one say: “I am being tried by God.” For with evil things God cannot be tried, nor does he himself try anyone. -James 1:13.
Rejoice in the hope. Endure under tribulation. Persevere in prayer. -Romans 12:12.
To fear God is, not to cower before him in terror, but to bow before him in awe.
Can The Ethiopian Change His Skin?'We answer, No. But all will admit that what the Ethiopian cannot do for himself God could readily do for him... How could all men be brought to perfection and which color of skin was the original? The answer is now provided. God can change the Ethiopian's skin in his own due time.
PROHIBITION FOR THE POOR'...From a criminal viewpoint the desirability of sobering the southern negro speaks volumes for national prohibition.
We are not to forget, either, that Africa is inhabited by various tribes or nations of negroes--some more and some less degraded than the average...the white race exhibits some qualities of superiority over any other...The secret of the greater intelligence and aptitude of the Caucasian undoubtedly in great measure is to be attributed to the commingling of blood amongst its various branches; and this was evidently forced in large measure by circumstances under divine control.
A situation approaching global ruin has existed only in the 20th century. All the more reason, then, to believe that soon Jehovah will take action to protect his property, his creation.
But now in our 20th century, we have come to the time for harvest, "a conclusion of a system of things, and the reapers are angels"!
Revelation 16:16 calls it the "war of the great day of God the Almighty," Armageddon. This war will come in the twentieth century. It will come right on schedule, as have the wars, food shortages, earthquakes and other events foretold. This generation will see its fulfillment.
That now-operating kingdom in heaven will, within the twentieth century, cleanse the entire earth of wickedness.