The Pivotal Year of 1914- Unveiling the Historical Significance for Jehovah’s Witnesses

What is the significance of 1914 for Jehovah’s Witnesses?

The year 1914 holds immense significance for Jehovah’s Witnesses, as it marks the beginning of what they believe to be the end times and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth. This pivotal year is central to their faith and is deeply rooted in their interpretation of biblical prophecies.

Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that in 1914, Jesus Christ returned to earth as a spirit being to begin his role as the King of God’s kingdom. They consider this event to be the fulfillment of the prophecy in Daniel 2:44, which states that the kingdom would be given to the saints. According to their teachings, Jesus Christ has been actively ruling from heaven since that time, preparing the earth for the establishment of God’s kingdom.

One of the key reasons why 1914 is significant for Jehovah’s Witnesses is because they believe it to be the start of the “last days.” The Bible contains numerous prophecies that describe the events leading up to the end of the world, and Jehovah’s Witnesses interpret these prophecies to indicate that the last days began in 1914. They believe that the events of the 20th century, including World War I, World War II, and the rise of communism, are evidence of the fulfillment of these prophecies.

Another crucial aspect of the significance of 1914 for Jehovah’s Witnesses is the formation of their organization. In 1914, Charles Taze Russell, the founder of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (now known as Jehovah’s Witnesses), published a book titled “The Divine Plan of the Ages.” This book outlined his interpretation of biblical prophecies and his belief that 1914 marked the beginning of the end times. The organization’s focus shifted from door-to-door evangelism to the dissemination of their teachings and the recruitment of new members.

Jehovah’s Witnesses also believe that 1914 is significant because it marks the end of the Gentile times and the beginning of the “times of the Gentiles” as described in the Bible. They teach that the Gentiles, or non-Jews, have ruled the world since the time of the Roman Empire, and that this period is coming to an end. They believe that the establishment of God’s kingdom in 1914 signifies the end of this rule and the beginning of a new era where God’s kingdom will reign over the earth.

In conclusion, the year 1914 holds profound significance for Jehovah’s Witnesses. It represents the beginning of the end times, the return of Jesus Christ as the King of God’s kingdom, and the fulfillment of numerous biblical prophecies. This pivotal year has shaped the beliefs and practices of Jehovah’s Witnesses, guiding their understanding of the world and their role in it.