The lecture presented by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III provides an extensive theological and biblical explanation of the dangers of the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, showing their doctrinal errors compared to the Coptic Orthodox faith. The lecture also highlights the historical and theological greatness of St. Athanasius the Apostolic, the first defender of the Divinity of Christ in the fourth century.

🔹 First: About St. Athanasius the Apostolic

• His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains the greatness of St. Athanasius and his role in formulating the Creed and defending the Divinity of Christ against Arianism.

• He emphasizes his theological and spiritual role, and his discipleship to St. Anthony, the Father of monks.

🔹 Second: A Detailed Presentation of the Errors of Jehovah’s Witnesses

His Holiness explains their main theological deviations, including:

• Denying the Holy Trinity and claiming that the Holy Spirit is only “power.”

• Believing that Christ is “created,” not eternal, and that He is the same as Archangel Michael.

• Denying the bodily Resurrection of Christ and claiming He appeared in a borrowed body.

• Using a corrupted Bible translation called the “New World Translation.”

• Denying the existence of the Church as the Body of Christ.

• Believing in an earthly paradise for most believers instead of heavenly life.

🔹 Third: The Orthodox Response to These Claims

His Holiness gives deep biblical answers, such as:

• Christ is the Creator according to St. John (All things were made through Him).

• Angels do not receive worship, yet angels worship Christ (Hebrews 1).

• Archangel Michael did not dare rebuke the devil, while Christ gave authority to cast out demons.

• The title “Alpha and Omega” is divine and is also used for Christ in Revelation.

• Only God is Holy, yet Christ is called “the Holy One who is to be born.”

🔹 Fourth: A Practical Spiritual Experience

His Holiness shares his own experience discussing with Jehovah’s Witnesses since the 1950s, stressing the importance of:

• Deep biblical knowledge,

• Firm understanding of Orthodox doctrine,

• Caution against their selective use of verses and corrupted translation.

🔹 Spiritual Summary

The lecture is a clear call to remain steadfast in the true Orthodox faith, preserving the apostolic teaching, and defending the true Divinity of Christ as delivered by the Fathers—especially St. Athanasius the Apostolic. It shows how Orthodox thinking guides us to discern truth from falsehood with steadfastness and humility.

For better translation support, please contact the center.