There are numerous articles on the worldwide web claiming to "Expose" Charles Taze Russell, a well-known religious teacher of the late 1800's and early 1900's. Due to the fact that Mr. Russell's teachings were contrary to the long held traditions of conventional Christianity, he was greatly slandered by representatives of the various denominations at the time. Sadly, this slander continues almost one hundred years after his death. The purpose of this page is to debunk some of the long held myths that many believe to be established facts about the man and his biblical teachings.
THAT- Charles Taze Russell founded the original Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, but he was NOT the founder of the Jehovah's Witnesses? Russell died in 1916, the Jehovah's Witnesses, as they are known today, did not come into being until the early 1930's.
THAT- Charles Taze Russell was NOT a Freemason, and denounced anything having to do with the Occult, and spiritisim? To this day Russell haters continue to make the false claim that he was deeply involved with the occult. In truth, he wrote numerous articles advising his brethren to avoid all forms of spiritisim.
THAT- Charles Taze Russell's biblical teachings are greatly different than those of the modern day Jehovah's Witness organization?
THAT- The Bible Students organization under Russell's headship did not act as a central authority over the local study groups. Pastor Russell did not stress allegiance to worldly organizations.
THAT- Pastor Russell did NOT write the book, The Finished Mystery, as claimed by Jehovah's Witnesses.
THAT- Pastor Russell was a respected Christian Zionist, often invited to speak before orthodox Jewish groups? In addition, his views on Zionism have been hailed by the likes of former Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and former United Nations Ambassador, Jeane Kirkpatrick.
THAT- Russell critics greatly distorted his beliefs regarding the great pyramid in Egypt. He believed that the pyramid in its measurements, and passages, offered a confirmation of certain chronological aspects of the Bible. This was never considered an essential doctrine of the faith, just an interesting possiblity. (Isaiah 19:19-20)
THAT- The claims of Russell haters, such as the late Walter Martin, author of the book, "The Kingdom of the Cults, have long ago been proven false?
THAT- Much of what Russell, and other Bible Students, forecasted for the year 1914 actually came true?
THAT- The works of Pastor Russell, the six volumes of the Studies in the Scriptures, remain in print today, and serve as a spiritual blessing to thousands of Christian Bible Students around the world?
The late "Doctor" Walter Martin the author of several books including the best selling, "The Kingdom of the Cults" advanced several false rumors as established facts when it came to the character of Charles Taze Russell. For example, according to Martin, Charles Russell lied under oath in a libel suit that he brought against a minister who had printed falsehoods about him. The truth is that Pastor Russell was NEVER indicted or convicted of perjury. According to Mr. Martin, Russell "perjured" himself for claiming under oath that he was able to comprehend the greek language. When one reads the context, it is clear that Russell was speaking of his ability to reference a biblical Concordance, to obtain the meaning of greek words. He never testified that he was an "expert" in the greek language.
Several anti-Russell web sites even stoop so low as to claim Pastor Russell was a "child molester." This is not only a lie, it is irresponsible to publish such claims without proof. We challenge any of Russell's critics to produce evidence that he was ever credibly accused, charged, or convicted of such a crime.
Charles Taze Russell as a young man took a vow of celibacy. It was not long before his enemies in other sects began to spread false rumors about him, and the women who worked at the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. In an effort to put an end to these rumors Pastor Russell married a friend in the faith. Pastor Russell was truly ahead of his time in the way in which he allowed his wife to serve as his help mate. She wrote articles on biblical topics in the Watchtower Magazine and served as one of his advisors. In fact, he was criticized by others for allowing her such a role. After growing unhappy in their relationship, Mrs. Russell filed for separation. In spite of making damaging and unproven accusations towards her husband, Pastor Russell continued to financially support her, and even made provisions for her in his will.
It has been claimed by Russell critics that he once swindled his brethren by getting them to invest in "Miracle Wheat." The truth is that he was swindled in this investment, which in turn caused him to give wrong information on the investment potential of the controversial wheat. He offered in writing to reimburse any fellow Bible Students that lost money on this venture. Not one of his fellow servants asked for their money back!
Unlike prominent religious leaders today, Charles Taze Russell lived a life of self-sacrifice. He existed on a salary of ten dollars a month. As a young man he inherited a large sum of money from his parents. He placed every dime that he had into his ministry work. The Bible Students Organization never solicited money from followers, and sold all materials at cost, those without means were given Watchtower publications for free. In the original "Photo Drama of Creation" Pastor Russell admonished his brethren not to take money for preaching the gospel, just as it was freely given to them, they are to freely give it to others.
Another tactic used by Russell haters to discredit him, was the fact that he had no "formal" religious training. They ridicule the fact that he is called "Pastor" Russell. Now wait a minute! Is this not the same criticism used by the Pharisees in trying to discredit Jesus and his Apostles? (Acts 3:13)
Just like with any other fallible man, Charles Taze Russell was not perfect. By his own admission he made mistakes. He freely admitted that he was wrong in his expectations for the year 1914. That said, time has shown that the year 1914 was the year that the world changed for all time. Since 1914 we have clearly been in a "Time of trouble not seen since there was a nation." (Daniel 12:1)
Charles Taze Russell was a man of humility and he always acted as a "fellow servant." When it comes to character and integrity, his morals stand up well over the test of time. He continues to be an example on how one can live a life of sacrifice and service to the Lord.