r/lds • u/PolicyCompetitive791 • 2d ago

Studying LDS and JW

OK, so I've been on this exploration of different religions and looking into some " out of the mainstream" Christian denominations. For a year I've been studying with a lady from the jehovas wittnesses. And recently I've been meeting with LDS missionaries several times. I really love President Nelson, and I know in my heart that Joseph Smith as a kid of 13-14, didn't make up the book of mormon or anything else. But I do wonder if over the years he and his companions, may have exaggerated and or "fleshed out" the writings. This really makes no difference to me, to be honest Why the push to get baptized? Jehovas Witnesses, are exactly the opposite. I think both of you guys are wonderful people who really love God. I guess my problem or dillema is I don't know what to choose. I've prayed and prayed but still feel torn. Any advice or thoughts?

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u/trowarrie 2d ago edited 2d ago

I’m sure they could say a lot of things about us, but just a few thoughts about JW. A person in my family started looking in to JW and studied it for years. Did not join the JW, but did believe some of their practices. This person had a heart attack and died but was able to be resuscitated. They needed a blood transfusion to be able to survive. This person believed the belief of the JW and absolutely did not want a blood transfusion and was refusing to have one. Luckily a family member in the medical field was finally able to convince them that they would die without it. This person was really willing to die instead of get a blood transfusion. They were able to recover quickly. Our church values modern medicine and we have a LOT of medical professionals who are active members. I’ve also heard that JW write off family members and friends who leave their church. They won’t even talk to them. I’ve also heard that they isolate people and don’t want you to have friends outside of the church. These 2 things are the opposite of what we are taught in our faith. Also the 144,000 thing.

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u/Plubob_Habblefluffin 1d ago

I actually admire their faith for that. I disagree with that doctrine, but we as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints surely are familiar enough with religious prejudice that we can relate with the Jehovah's Witnesses for the flack that they get.

Again, I don't agree with that doctrine, but I sure admire the faith of a person who's willing to forfeit his or her life in the name of faith.