The Distinction Between Jesus and Jehovah in Watchtower Publications

The question 'Does the Watchtower Accidentally Admit that Jesus is Jehovah' is a common misconception within the Jehovah's Witness community. The official stance of the Watchtower publications is that Jesus and Jehovah are distinct entities. However, it's important to understand why and how this distinction is upheld.

Accidental Admissions

Typically, any apparent errors or misinterpretations by the Watchtower publications are considered accidental and not deliberate admissions. For instance, a Circuit Overseer's tale of a VHS theater copy of Reeves Superman being thrown out due to a misinterpretation of an issue unrelated to videoing a District talk reflects on petty issues rather than indicative of any doctrinal admission. The Watchtower communities often claim these as 'accidents' rather than intentional actions reflecting their beliefs.

Official Stances and Excerpts from Watchtower Publications

Let's delve into some specific references from Watchtower publications to understand their stance more clearly.

Roles and Distinctions in the Hebrew Word 'Lord'

The Watchtower publications emphasize the distinction between Jesus and Jehovah by explaining certain linguistic nuances. For example, translating the Greek word 'Kyri·os' into Hebrew as 'ha-A·dōn' is a matter of translation, not a statement of trinitarian belief. The Greek text of the Bible does not include the definite article 'the' with 'Lord' in this verse, meaning the term can apply to various individuals.

Consider the excerpt from the 1970 edition of the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures:

The appendix on pages 1455 and 1456 states that the Hebrew expression 'ha-A·dōn' is limited exclusively to Jehovah God. However, the footnote to Romans 10:9 in the 1971 edition of the same publication clarifies why this expression does not refer to Jehovah here. This is because the footnote acknowledges that some translators used 'ha-A·dōn' to translate the Greek word 'kyri·os' meaning 'Lord,' but the term here refers to Jesus.

The key point here is that the use of 'ha-A·dōn' does not imply Jesus is equated with Jehovah. Rather, it’s an accommodation for Greek to Hebrew translation, reflecting the different linguistic contexts. The statement acknowledges that certain translators have made this choice for translation purposes, which does not reflect the trinitarian belief being questioned.

Scriptural Examples and Teachings

The scriptural passages cited in Watchtower publications further emphasize the distinction. For instance, John 13:13–16, Colossians 3:24, and Revelation 5:9–10 all refer to Jesus as the Lord but in a context of subordination to the Father. Paul's acknowledgment in 1 Corinthians 8:5–6 that there is one God and one Lord, Jesus Christ, further solidifies this understanding.

Setting aside any theological debates, the Watchtower community maintains that the role of 'Lord' for Jesus is one of his attributes and not a claim of divinity on par with Jehovah. This is consistent with the apostolic writings and multiple interpretations of the words used in the Bible.

Conclusion and Safety of the Faith

While the Watchtower publications may occasionally face criticism for perceived inconsistencies, these are often attributed to translation and interpretation challenges rather than intentional doctrinal admissions. The community’s stance is firmly rooted in scriptural context and scholarly exegesis. If any doctrine supporting the trinity were found within the Bible, the Watchtower would embrace it. However, no such support has been identified.

Understanding these nuances can provide clarity and peace of mind for those within the Jehovah's Witness community and help bridge potential misunderstandings with outsiders. It underscores the significance of accurate interpretation and respect for varied scholarly opinions within the context of scripture.