Archive for the 'Infallibility' Category

CTR’s Expectations Concerning 1914 – Part 3

1913::

We take this occasion to remind our readers afresh that nowhere in our writings have they found anything positively stated respecting the closing years of this Age, except that we understand that the Gentile Times will close in October 1914, and that consequently we expect, speedily following that date, the transfer of the rulership of earth to the great King of Glory, in a “time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation.” We have pointed out that prior to that date a testing work will be in progress in the Church–a time in which the question will be, not so much, who will fall? as, who shall be able to stand in this evil day? – Ephesians 6:11.

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CTR’s Expectations Concerning 1914 – Part 2

1908:

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CTR’s Expectations Concerning 1914 – Part 1

1886:

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CTR’s Expectations Concerning 1914 – Intro

Many statements have been made to the effect that all of Charles Taze Russell’s expectations concerning 1914 were a failure. However, for those familiar with Russell’s writings, it is obvious that what is being said is not entirely true. Yes, not all Russell expected for 1914 came to pass, but his main expectation, that the “time of trouble” was to begin in 1914, we believe did come true.

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Did Russell Claim Infallibility (CTR Wordpress Link)

The following are some quotes from Charles Taze Russell concerning his own view of his works, especially as related to whether he considered his works infallible:

No system of theology should be presented, or accepted, which overlooks or omits the most prominent features of Scripture teaching. We trust, however, that a wide distinction will be recognized between the earnest, sober and reverent study of prophecy and other scriptures, in the light of accomplished historic facts, to obtain conclusions which sanctified common sense can approve, and a too common practice of general speculation, which, when applied to divine prophecy, is too apt to give loose rein to wild theory and vague fancy. Those who fall into this dangerous habit generally develop into prophets (?) instead of prophetic students. -
1886; “The Divine Plan of the Ages”, pg. 13
http://www.agsconsulting.com/htdbnon/htdb0068.htm

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Russell’s Alleged “All or Nothing” Statements

The Internet is filled with misinformation, misquotes, quotes out of context, false accusations, insinuations, and outright falsehoods about Charles Taze Russell. One website that quotes various religious leaders under the heading: ALL OR NOTHING STATEMENTS (from those that have “the truth”). Some other sites have the same material: [1][2][3][4][5] It becomes clear from many of the quotes given that by saying “all or nothing” the editor of the page means that the one being quoted is supposedly claiming that he or she is to be considered the only channel being used by God to communicate with men. Russell never made such a claim.

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“Only Channel” (A Google Search of Russell’s Writings)

CLICK HERE to search the writings of Russell for the phrase “only channel.” Many claim that Russell taught that he was God’s only channel for truth. This presents a Google search of Russell’s writings for the phrase “only channel.” The claim of “only channel” came from Rutherford of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, not from Charles Taze Russell.

CLICK HERE for another related search on “only authority”. One should note how many times Russell pointed to Jesus, the apostles and the Bible as the “only authority.” He never pointed to himself or his writings as such.

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A search of Russell’s writings for “only authority” (Link)

CLICK HERE to search Russell’s writings for the phrase “only authority.” The claim is often made that Russell claimed to be the “only authority” to interpret the Bible, often relating the present-day claims of the Jehovah’s Witnesses “central authority” and “Jehovah’s organization” teachings back to Russell. This search shows that Russell considered Jesus and his apostles (through the Bible) as the “only authority” for the church.

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Russell Quotes Concerning the Bible

Many pride themselves as believing in the Bible as the inspired Word of God, while yet viewing the holy writings through the eyes of human dogma. Athanasius, who promoted the false doctrine of the trinity, stated: “The sacred and inspired Scriptures are sufficient to declare truth.” And yet at the same time, he proceeded to present a tremendous amount of human imagination, assumptions, etc., which he added to, and read into, the holy scriptures so as to make it appear that the Bible upheld his false teachings.

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