University of Toronto Press
Apocalypse Delayed
About this book
For almost thirty years, M. James Penton’s Apocalypse Delayed has been the definitive scholarly study of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. As a former member of the sect, Penton offers a comprehensive overview of this significant religious movement.
Author / Editor information
M. James Penton is a professor emeritus of history and religious studies at the University of Lethbridge.
Reviews
“A well-written, clear and fascinating study.”
“Penton’s unique position – a well-travelled, fourth-generation member who served in various capacities – makes him a reliable informant. He aptly gives insight into major doctrines, past and recent prophetic speculation, the authority structure of the Witness organization, and the harshness of the total ban upon those who attempt open discussion of any differing exegetical view.”
Timothy P. Weber:
“All in all, this is an excellent book and required reading for those interested in Jehovah’s Witnesses. Penton’s special perspective provides a scholarly inside look at a fascinating and persistent example of modern millenarianism.”
Grant MacGillivray:
'Penton, a fourth generation Witness with an impeccable academic background, sets forth a detailed and damning outline of the movement and, in particular, those who run the world wide organization.'
Robert C. Fuller:
'M. James Penton offers us one of the few comprehensive accounts of a sectarian tradition that remains an enigma to scholars of modern religion.'
Dwayne Janke:
'This is not a vindictive slamming of the Witness organization by a raving ex-member, but a carefully written, well-documented critical analysis by a scholar with the special insight that only a former insider could give.'
D.S. Azzolina:
‘Highly recommended.’
M. Darrol Bryant, Director, Centre for Dialogue and Spirituality in the World’s Religions, Renison University College, University of Waterloo:
“Apocalypse Delayed is a major work of scholarship, well written and exhaustive. Few, if any, can match Professor Penton’s knowledge of the literature of, by, and about the movement.”
Topics
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Frontmatter
i -
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Contents
ix -
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Figures And Tables
xv -
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Preface
xvii -
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Apocalypse Delayed. The Story Of Jehovah’S Witnesses
1 -
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Introduction
3 - PART ONE: History
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1. The Doctrinal Background of a New American Religious Movement
13 -
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2. Charles Russell and the Bible Student Movement
34 -
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3. The Creation of a Theocracy
69 -
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4. The Era of Global Expansion
104 -
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5. Prophetic Failure and Reaction
130 -
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6. From Dynamic Growth to Organizational Stagnation
163 -
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7. Relations with the World
200 - PART TWO: Concepts and Doctrines
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8. Bases of Doctrinal Authority
233 -
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9. Major Doctrines
262 - PART THREE: Organization and Community
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10. Organizational Structure
291 -
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11. The Witness Community
342 -
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Conclusion
397 -
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Notes
401 -
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Bibliography
475 -
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Index
509