JW Awaken

Picking at Threads, Part 4 – The Origins of Yahwism

Posted on March 5, 2017 by Jeremy 18 comments

Our planet is about 4.5 billion years old. Our species has been here about 200,000 years. There were many religions and beliefs in the Ancient Near East, one of which became Judaism and thus, Christianity. But when, historically, did was the god Yahweh first worshiped and by whom? Is it possible to find this answer, especially when the Torah can be shown to have human origins? This article explores what evidence we do have and where it may point to the origins of the god Yahweh.

The Problems of Divine Morality

Posted on September 13, 2016 by Jeremy 3 comments

A major point of contention between religious believers and secularists is that of morality. The subject is nearly inevitable any time there is a debate, discussion or other confrontation between the two groups and the conversation nearly always proceeds in the same manner. In this article, I intend to illustrate what I see as the most significant problems any theistic argument must overcome to legitimize the idea of divine morality. It is a difficult proposal indeed.

Can God Prove Anything?

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Jeremy One comment

Could an all powerful creator of the universe prove his sovereignty? According to JW theology that is precisely what God is doing as we speak, by allowing Satan an opportunity to rule this world and prove his claim that he could do better than God. Satan will eventually fail and this will prove that we need God to rule. Sounds reasonable, right? But is it even possible? This article explores this with a little creative thinking and imagination.

How Best to Help Family/Friends Part 1

Posted on August 5, 2016 by Rich Leave a comment

There are many people who have family and friends still involved in high-control groups, especially those of us who were raised in them ourselves. We know all too well what it is like to try to reason with them on occasion. If we are so unfortunate as to find ourselves discussing their beliefs with them, it can become very tenuous. We

Angry Apostates or Obedient Followers?

Posted on July 10, 2016 by Rich One comment

Just yesterday I finished reading, “Combating Cult Mind Control” by Steven Hassan. One of the most important things I learned from this book is a lesson for those who have left such groups. Ignoring this lesson has gone on too long and I hope this article can do it’s part to reach the hearts of ex-cult members. An Event on

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An Essay on Free Will

Posted on July 10, 2016 by Jeremy 9 comments

The concept of free will is central to many religious doctrines and arguably believed in by most people. But does it exist? Are we truly able to make decisions based purely on an intrinsic will that is free from all motivations, influences and desires? This essay explores this complex topic.

Long absence

Posted on July 3, 2016 by Rich 4 comments

I felt I should write and try to explain my absence here to any readers. There are many things playing a role in this lack of activity, some which I don’t even understand myself just yet. Let me try to explain. Originally it was my plan to be sure to cover the Watchtower articles every week. After doing several of

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