A recent bulletin distributed with the May Kingdom Ministry attempted to provide JWs with practical advice on ways they should "behave" at that month's convention, and in public. Apparently, the Society has received complaints about the behavior of some JWs attending the conventions.
In paragraph eight, we read, "Last year many adults and children were again observed walking aimlessly through the corridors, milling around outside and visiting with others while the program was in progress, rather than listening to what the Faithful and Discreet Slave had provided for our benefit." The Society also cautioned JW parents that the "children often asked to use the restroom as an excuse to get up and walk around."
The remainder of the bulletin highlights several other "problem" areas, along with corrective measures for JWs to take. Listed below are a few of them:
o Grooming and dressing
o Conduct in hotels and restaurants
o Complimentary breakfasts (not an opportunity to stock up on food)
o Appropriate tipping and good manners
o Eating during meetings
Unfortunately, this isn't the first time JWs have had to be "reminded" of how to act-and it won't be the last. As long as the Society continues to stress outward appearances and actions as a primary goal, JWs will continue to struggle with those very behaviors they are trying to overcome. Rules and regulations may appear to be the answer, but the Society would do well to remember the words of the apostle Paul, "'Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!' These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence." (Colossians 2:21-23)
Obviously, having an appearance of godliness is not the answer. The change must first come from the inside. As Jesus himself said in Matthew 23:26, "First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean." The fact that JWs continue to struggle with the "same old problems" should indicate to the Society-and to JWs-that these problems are only symptoms. The real solution will only come when JWs begin placing their faith in Jesus for their righteousness. Paul sums it up best in Galatians 3:24-25, "So the law [rules and regulations] was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law." (Brackets and italics added)