Nature of Jesus
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Jesus is the first creation of God and is distinctly separate from God the Father. They hold that Jesus is not Almighty God but rather the Son of God, who was used by God to create all other things. In contrast, Pentecostals view Jesus as fully divine and fully human, part of the Holy Trinity, consisting of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. They affirm the co-equal and co-eternal nature of Jesus with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Role of Jesus in Salvation
For Jehovah’s Witnesses, salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus’ sacrifice, but it also requires adherence to their teachings and organization. They emphasize a works-based faith that includes preaching and living according to their interpretation of the Bible. Pentecostals emphasize grace through faith alone in Jesus Christ as the sole means of salvation. They teach that a personal relationship with Jesus and an experience of the Holy Spirit, often described as baptism in the Holy Spirit, are essential for salvation and empowerment for a Christian life.
Resurrection and Second Coming
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Jesus was resurrected as a spirit and returned to heaven, and they do not hold the belief in a physical bodily resurrection. They teach that Jesus is reigning in heaven and will bring about God’s Kingdom on Earth. Pentecostals, on the other hand, believe that Jesus was resurrected in a glorified physical body and will return to Earth to judge the living and the dead. This event is central to their eschatological beliefs and symbolizes hope and restoration.
Worship and Relationship
Jehovah’s Witnesses do not worship Jesus in the same way they worship God. They view prayer and worship as directed exclusively to Jehovah, believing that Jesus serves as a mediator. Conversely, Pentecostals actively engage in worship of Jesus, celebrating His presence in their lives through prayer, praise, and the experience of the Holy Spirit. They encourage a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus, viewing Him as a Savior who is actively involved in the lives of believers.
Understanding of Scripture
Jehovah’s Witnesses use their own translation of the Bible, the New World Translation, and interpret scripture through the lens of their governing body. They place significant emphasis on understanding the Bible in a way that aligns with their teachings. Pentecostals generally use various Bible translations and encourage personal interpretation, valuing the guidance of the Holy Spirit in understanding scripture. They promote an active engagement with the text that can lead to inspired revelation and application in daily life.
