Ever since that time, Jehovah's Witnesses have been predicting that the world would end 'shortly.' Their numbers have grown to many millions in over two hundred countries. The first prophecy was not fulfilled, but the outbreak of the First World War lent some credibility to the second. Russell, their founder, advised his followers that members of Christ's church would be raptured in 1878, and by 1914 Christ would destroy the nations and establish his kingdom on earth. Book.Since 1876, Jehovah's Witnesses have believed that they are living in the last days of the present world. If you require we will promptly send pictures of listed books upon request. We carefully inspect every single book we list and give accurate descriptions. This listing was made by a small independent book shop. This edition features a revised and expanded bibliography.' xvii+444 pages.5.9 x 9 inches. Penton considers changes in doctrine, practice, and governance on issues such as medical treatment, higher education, apostates, and the apocalypse.

From them he has created a penetrating study of a spreading world phenomenon.In this second edition, an afterword by the author brings us up to date on events since Apocalypse Delayed was first published in 1985. Penton has combined the special insight of an insider with the critical analysis of an observer now at a distance from his subject.

Others involve internal controversies, including political control of the organization and the handling of dissent within the ranks. Some of the issues he discusses are known to the general public, such as the sect's opposition to military service and blood transfusions.

His book is divided into three parts, each presenting the Witnesses' story in a different context: historical, doctrinal, and sociological. As a long-time member of the sect, now expelled, Penton offers a comprehensive overview of a remarkable religious movement. They distribute a billion pieces of literature annually, and continue to anticipate the end of the world.Apocalypticism is the key issue in this detailed history, but there are others. Ever since that time, Jehovah's Witnesses have been predicting that the world would end 'shortly.' Their numbers have grown to many millions in over two hundred countries. 'Since 1876, Jehovah's Witnesses have believed that they are living in the last days of the present world. Text inside appears clean and clear throughout. Some areas of the cover and spine have faded colour due to light exposure. The book is in very good condition, some shelf rubbing.

Apocalypse Delayed by M. James Penton