Giving the reason for imposing the severest penalty allowed by the law, the court declared that Jehovah’s witnesses are a very dangerous society because they do not salute the flag or other national emblems, and claim exemption from military service as conscientious objectors.

Jehovah’s witnesses are law-abiding citizens. They follow the Bible’s command: “Let every subject be obedient to the ruling authorities, for there is no authority not under God’s control.” (Rom. 13:1, “Weymouth,” sixth edition) Only when Jehovah’s witnesses are confronted with a governmental law that conflicts with God’s law do they refuse to bow to the will of the secular ruling authority. (Acts 5:29) But in Turkey, as elsewhere, they do not in any way try to hinder people from enlisting in the armed forces nor do they encourage disrespect for the flag of any nation.

While not involving themselves in political affairs, Jehovah’s witnesses do not plot against the governments of the world.