Joseph Franklin Rutherford

Date of Birth: November 8, 1869

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: January 8, 1942

Biography

Joseph Franklin Rutherford, often referred to as “Judge Rutherford,” was a prominent American religious leader and the second president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, an organization associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Born on November 8, 1869, in Versailles, Missouri, Rutherford initially pursued a career in law and served as a public prosecutor and special judge in Missouri before dedicating his life to religious work. He was baptized as a Bible Student in 1906 and quickly rose to prominence within the movement. Following the death of Charles Taze Russell, the founder of the Bible Student movement, Rutherford took the helm and significantly restructured the organization, leading to the formation of what is now known as Jehovah’s Witnesses. He is credited with many doctrinal and organizational changes that shaped the modern practices and beliefs of the group. Rutherford passed away on January 8, 1942, leaving a lasting legacy within the community he helped to mold.

5 Interesting Facts about Joseph Franklin Rutherford

1. Joseph Franklin Rutherford introduced the name “Jehovah’s Witnesses” in 1931 to distinguish his followers from other Bible Student groups.

2. He was known for his prolific writing, authoring 21 books and numerous pamphlets during his leadership.

3. Rutherford was a staunch opponent of organized religion and patriotism, which led to significant legal battles and imprisonment during World War I.

4. He implemented the use of sound cars and phonographs for preaching, which revolutionized the way Jehovah’s Witnesses conducted their ministry.

5. His leadership saw the establishment of “The Golden Age” magazine, which later became known as “Awake!”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joseph Franklin Rutherford

1. “Religion is a snare and a racket.”

2. “Jehovah’s Witnesses are not an organization; they are a new creation.”

3. “The truth shall make you free—free from fear, superstition, and the bondage of religion.”

4. “The kingdom of God has begun to operate, and nothing in the heavens or the earth can stop it.”

5. “Salvation belongs to Jehovah.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a religious leader, Joseph Franklin Rutherford did not amass personal wealth; his focus was on the organizational growth of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Therefore, his personal net worth is not applicable.