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Melinda Mills

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Everything posted by Melinda Mills

  1. We should stop worrying about celebrities just because they are celebrities. If their conduct is not up to standard, stop letting others know they are JWs and stop associating Jehovah's name with them unnecessarily. Try to help people we know of in our own congregation and families. If everyone does that the celebrities will also be covered if they are accessible. We love them but we don't have to look up to them or give them special treatment because they are celebrities. To Jehovah everyone has the same value.
  2. Because the beautiful architecture and landscaping generally uplifts the area and adds to the value of the real estate in the area. It is also kept pristine by the local congregation as JWs have high standards.
  3. It is a good few years now that an effort has been made to "un-white" them. Just check the publications carefully. Of course an effort has also been made to diversify the models being used. Good comment by JWInsider.
  4. Thanks for your interest. Don't you pray? (John 14:6) Jesus said to him: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (1 Timothy 2:1-7) . . .First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made concerning all sorts of men, 2 concerning kings and all those who are in high positions, so that we may go on leading a calm and quiet life with complete godly devotion and seriousness. 3 This is fine and acceptable in the sight of our Savior, God, 4 whose will is that all sorts of people should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, a man, Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself a corresponding ransom for all—this is what is to be witnessed to in its own due time. 7 For the purpose of this witness I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—a teacher of nations in the matter of faith and truth. *** w83 4/1 p. 19 An Apostle’s Stand Against Apostasy *** If sin and apostasy are the dark thread running through John’s letter, genuine love is a string of pearls that covers it. Even though his letter carries a somber warning, it is nevertheless clearly illuminated by three recurring themes—love, light and life. John is saying, ‘Avoid the liars, the antichrists, the brothers. Cast off darkness, walk in the light. Reject hatred and practice love. Resist sin, knowing that if you do commit a sin you have a helper or advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ.’ Yes, “this is the witness given, that God gave us everlasting life, and this life is in his Son.”—1 John 5:11; 2:1, 2. We talk to God in prayer; we have a helper or an advocate with the Father, Christ. Before the new covenant was established, God's servants talked to him in prayer, e.g. Abraham, Moses, David, Job, and all the rest. Their sins were forgiven through the ransom even though it was not paid as yet. (Romans 3:23-26) 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and it is as a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented him as an offering for propitiation through faith in his blood. This was to demonstrate his own righteousness, because God in his forbearance was forgiving the sins that occurred in the past. 26 This was to demonstrate his own righteousness in this present season, so that he might be righteous even when declaring righteous the man who has faith in Jesus. Hope this helps.
  5. Will Jesus teach to groups of people the same that he did while he was preaching on the earth, again in the paradise? Or should we expect not to talk to Jesus personally? ==== It is my personal belief that when we are restored to perfection we will receive communication directly from Jehovah God as did Adam and Eve when they were perfect. See scripture quoted. "(Genesis 3:8, 9) Later they heard the voice of Jehovah God as he was walking in the garden about the breezy part of the day, and the man and his wife hid from the face of Jehovah God among the trees of the garden. 9 And Jehovah God kept calling to the man and saying to him: “Where are you?” Right now we talk to Jehovah God through his Son, the Mediator between God and mankind, Jesus Christ. It is also reasonable that we would hear from Jesus, our Eternal Father, who has always loved mankind (Proverbs 8: 31), who loves us very much now and will continue to do so in the future. (Hebrews 13:8). However, as to seeing Jehovah, it is not possible to do so and live. (Exodus 33:20) But he added: “You cannot see my face, for no man can see me and live.” As for Jesus, after his return to heaven he was given a higher name, immortal life and is now living in unapproachable light. He won't be returning to the earth, but that won't stop him from paying attention to us. He is doing so even now, but will do it more fully in the new system, and will be ably assisted by the 144,000 who have been taken from the earth. The little flock of 144,000 will see him and his Father in person but those on earth will not, but they will feel the effects of the loving rule, as we are now feeling his guidance in the Christian congregation and his presence with us in the preaching work. He promised to be with us until the conclusion of the system of things. (Matt 28:19,20) " (John 14:19) 19 In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me, because I live and you will live." (They will be resurrected to heavenly life) See commentary on John 14:19 from Insight on Scriptures. *** it-1 p. 790 Eye *** So, too, in view of the fact that Jesus said ‘the world would behold him no more’ (Joh 14:19), the statement at Revelation 1:7: “Every eye will see him [Jesus Christ],” must have reference, not to the literal eye, but, rather, to the effect upon the mind of human observers of the evidences that they can see with their literal eyes when he goes forth to destroy his enemies. The Bible plainly indicates, however, that those whom God calls to heavenly life with Christ will literally see God, which requires for them resurrection in a heavenly spiritual body.—1Pe 1:4; 1Co 15:50-54; compare 1Pe 3:18. End quote. Jesus converted Saul personally although he had given the work to Christians to do. The effect on Saul is that he was blinded by the bright light after Jesus spoke to him. "(Acts 9:3-9) 3 Now as he was traveling and getting near Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him, 4 and he fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 He asked: “Who are you, Lord?” He said: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” 7 Now the men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing, indeed, the sound of a voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul then got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he did not see anything, and he neither ate nor drank." The following scripture speaks of Jesus dwelling in unapproachable light since his resurrection. (1 Timothy 6:15, 16)... which the happy and only Potentate will show in its own appointed times. He is the King of those who rule as kings and Lord of those who rule as lords, 16 the one alone having immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal might. Amen." (This scripture refers to Jesus and not Jehovah. It says clearly he is King of those who rule as kings (it compares him to earthly kings compared to whom he is vastly superior.) It is clear that Jehovah God, the Almighty and Jesus Christ, the Messianic King, have no problem communicating with human creatures here on earth. Jehovah also spoke to Abraham, Moses, Job, and many other faithful servants extensively and intimately as recorded in his Word. So we know His capability already, but his attention will be turned to his people fully in the new system as Revelation 21:3-5 shows. . 3 With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” 5 And the One seated on the throne said: “Look! I am making all things new.” Also he says: “Write, for these words are faithful and true.” He doesn't have to come down here to be with his people. (2 Chronicles 2:6) . . For the heaven of the heavens cannot contain him, . .." far less the earth. He will be with his people in spirit and paying attention to their needs and requests and their prayers will be answered even before they say them. (Isaiah 65:17) For look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be called to mind, Nor will they come up into the heart. (Isaiah 65:24) Even before they call out, I will answer; While they are yet speaking, I will hear.
  6. I have gone to an international assembly in a country with East Indian culture and the losts of sisters were elegantly dressed in Punjabi dresses with pants under them. Check out the dresses on the Internet. They are very elegant.
  7. Thanks for your interest. Here is some research on it. Please check the scriptures and note that in the King James version where it says LORD in uppercase the translators are refusing to use the Divine Name YHWH (Yahweh or Jehovah). You are free to agree or otherwise. This will be my only reply. *** w83 10/15 p. 30 Exodus—From Tyranny to Theocratic Order *** •6:3—Since Abraham, Isaac and Jacob used the name Jehovah, in what sense had God not made it known to them? The name Jehovah literally means “He Causes to Become,” that is, according to God’s purpose. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob used the divine name and received promises from Jehovah. Yet they did not know or experience Jehovah as the One who caused these promises to be completely fulfilled. (Genesis 12:1, 2; 15:7, 13-16; 26:24; 28:10-15) However, Jehovah’s name soon would take on greater meaning for their descendants, the Israelites. They would come to know its real meaning when Jehovah carried out his purpose toward Israel by delivering them from tyranny and then giving them the Promised Land in fulfillment of his covenant with their forefathers. *** w14 7/15 p. 27 “You Are My Witnesses” *** WHAT GOD’S NAME MEANS 14 To enhance our appreciation for the honor of bearing God’s name, it is good for us to meditate on its meaning. Commonly translated “Jehovah,” the divine name comes from a Hebrew verb that can describe action and can be translated “to become.” Thus, the name Jehovah is understood to mean “He Causes to Become.” This definition well fits Jehovah’s role both as the Creator of the physical universe and intelligent beings and as the Fulfiller of his purpose. As events unfold, he continues to cause his will and purpose to be realized no matter what any opposer, such as Satan, may do in an attempt to thwart the progressive outworking of God’s will. 15 When commissioning Moses to lead God’s people out of Egypt, Jehovah revealed an aspect of his personality by using a related verb to describe his name, this time in the first person. The Bible record states: “God said to Moses: ‘I Will Become What I Choose to Become’ [or, “I Will Prove to Be What I Will Prove to Be”]. And he added: ‘This is what you are to say to the Israelites, “I Will Become has sent me to you.”’” (Ex. 3:14; ftn.) Thus Jehovah, in any circumstance, will become whatever is needed to accomplish his purpose. To the once-enslaved Israelites, he proved to be a Deliverer, a Protector, a Guide, and a Provider who satisfied all their material and spiritual needs.
  8. (Exodus 6:2) Then God said to Moses: “I am Jehovah. 3 And I used to appear to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as God Almighty, but with regard to my name Jehovah I did not make myself known to them. (Exodus 20:7) “You must not take up the name of Jehovah your God in a worthless way, for Jehovah will not leave unpunished the one who takes up His name in a worthless way. (Isaiah 12:2) Look! God is my salvation. I will trust and feel no dread; For Jah Jehovah is my strength and my might, And he has become my salvation.” (Isaiah 42:8) I am Jehovah. That is my name; I give my glory to no one else, Nor my praise to graven images. (Isaiah 43:10) “You are my witnesses,” declares Jehovah, “Yes, my servant whom I have chosen, So that you may know and have faith in me And understand that I am the same One. Before me no God was formed, And after me there has been none.(Isaiah 43:12) “I am the One who declared and saved and made known When there was no foreign god among you. So you are my witnesses,” declares Jehovah, “and I am God. (We can witness for his name, live up to it, and use it descriptively for our group of worshippers.) Don't think anyone in the time of the Israelites would have dared to. Even in Jesus's day they would not pronounce the Divine Name because they thought it too holy. We have more knowledge today about the meaning of the name (even though we don't know the correct Hebrew pronunciation). They are a lot of persons today (especially of the Rastafarian faith) with the abbreviated part of His name, Jah, added to their name as a prefix or suffix. However, I don't think anyone will dare use Jehovah as their personal name. Don't forget we too bear God's name as his witnesses (see Isaiah 43:12). We understand his uniqueness and loftiness, so we won't even think of using it as a personal name. We are encouraged to imitate him as beloved children; yet we know that no imperfect person can even approach Him without the covering of his Son's ransom. We don't want to be like him in the way that Satan and Eve tried to be, either; taking anything unique to Him, including privileges and worship that don't belong to us. Whether persons attempt to use the name as a personal name or not, Jehovah is able to protect it and his reputation. N.B. Jah and Jehovah are anglicized renditions of the Divine Name, יהוה (YHWH)
  9. *** g95 10/8 p. 30 From Our Readers *** "Fads In your article “Young People Ask . . . Fads—Should I Jump on the Bandwagon?” (December 8, 1994), you mentioned tattooing. I was surprised that you did not make reference to the command at Leviticus 19:28: “You must not put tattoo marking upon yourselves.” L. D., United States These words do indeed give a measure of insight into God’s thinking on this matter. Of course, Christians are not under the Mosaic Law. (Colossians 2:14) Still, individuals would do well to bear this scripture in mind when deciding what to do in this regard. The reported health risks and the impression wearing a tattoo might give to others are additional factors that a Christian should weigh very seriously.—ED. ------ Six months ago I jumped on the fad bandwagon and hopped off with a tattoo on my ankle. Every time I look at my ankle, I am reminded of my decision. I can only wonder what doubts others might now have about my character. I also worry if I might be a cause for stumbling to others in the congregation. I’ll think more carefully next time the fad bandwagon pulls around. S. C., United States" ============= See comments from Readers to Awake article above. Note one person is worried that he/she might have furnished a cause for stumbling by getting a tattoo. One also thinks Lev 19:28 should have been cited in the answer. The following scriptures also have a say on it. If we stop jumping on the bandwagon and stop being fashioned according to the system of things we will do well. It is clear that those who disfigure their skin and complexion with tattoos don't think they are wonderfully made. They are not using their powers of reason either, for most of the time the message or feeling in the tattoos becomes obsolete. (Romans 12:1) Therefore, I appeal to you by the compassions of God, brothers, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason. (1 Corinthians 10:32, 33) 32 Keep from becoming causes for stumbling to Jews as well as Greeks and to the congregation of God, 33 just as I am trying to please all people in all things, not seeking my own advantage, but that of the many, so that they may be saved. (Psalm 139:14) I praise you because in an awe-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, I know this very well. (Romans 12:2) And stop being molded by this system of things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
  10. In addition to the comments above, these scriptures clearly show that Jesus will perform the resurrection with full power and authority from his Father. (John 5:25-30) . . .the hour is coming, and it is now, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who have paid attention will live. 26 For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted also to the Son to have life in himself. 27 And he has given him authority to do judging, because he is the Son of man. 28 Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice 29 and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, and those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment. 30 I cannot do a single thing of my own initiative. Just as I hear, I judge, and my judgment is righteous because I seek, not my own will, but the will of him who sent me. *** w79 6/15 p. 20 par. 18 Resurrected—“Each In His Own Proper Place” *** 18 Jesus Christ releases mankind only from the Adamic death and our common grave, Haʹdes. He assured us of this when he said: “I am the First and the Last, and the living one; . . . and I have the keys of death and of Haʹdes.” (Rev. 1:17, 18) So, with good reason, Jesus said to Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life.”—John 11:25. *** w76 4/15 p. 244 par. 18 Why We Need the Kingdom of Jesus Christ *** In heaven the glorified Jesus Christ can still say: “I am the resurrection and the life.” That he is authorized by God his Father to raise the dead, he assures us by his words in the Revelation vision to John: “I became dead, but, look! I am living forever and ever, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.”—Rev. 1:18. (Bold text - mine)
  11. (Leviticus 19:28) “‘You must not make cuts in your flesh for a dead person, and you must not make tattoo markings on yourselves. I am Jehovah. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) There should not be found in you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, anyone who employs divination, anyone practicing magic, anyone who looks for omens, a sorcerer, 11 anyone binding others with a spell, anyone who consults a spirit medium or a fortune-teller, or anyone who inquires of the dead. 12 For whoever does these things is detestable to Jehovah, and on account of these detestable practices Jehovah your God is driving them away from before you. (Proverbs 6:16-19) 16 There are six things that Jehovah hates; Yes, seven things that he detests: 17 Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18 A heart plotting wicked schemes, and feet that run quickly to evil, 19 A false witness who lies with every breath, And anyone sowing contentions among brothers. (Revelation 22:15) 15 Outside are the dogs and those who practice spiritism and the fornicators and the murderers and the idolaters and everyone liking and carrying on a lie.’ (Malachi 3:6) “For I am Jehovah; I do not change. And you are sons of Jacob; you have not yet come to your finish. (James 1:16, 17) 16 Do not be misled, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect present is from above, coming down from the Father of the celestial lights, who does not vary or change like the shifting shadows. . . (John 17:3) This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. We have to be consistent. Above is a sample of some of the things Jehovah hates. When we know Jehovah's personality we know his likes and dislikes. We are privileged to have this knowledge as shown in the scriptures above, revealed by Him himself. Jehovah does not change. All these scriptures apply to us.
  12. (Philippians 1:9) “This is what I continue praying, that your love may abound still more and more with accurate knowledge and full discernment.” (1 John 5:20) . . .. 20 But we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us insight so that we may gain the knowledge of the one who is true. And we are in union with the one who is true, by means of his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and life everlasting. (Exodus 20:2, 3) 2 “I am Jehovah your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. 3 You must not have any other gods besides me. (Matthew 4:8-10) 8Again the Devil took him along to an unusually high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to him: “All these things I will give you if you fall down and do an act of worship to me.” 10 Then Jesus said to him: “Go away, Satan! For it is written: ‘It is Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service.’”
  13. He was fulfilling what was written about him. He was called the Logos or the Word of God which means spokesman. He was also called Teacher. He came to fulfill the law which was already written. Before he went back to heaven he said the holy spirit or remembrancer would bring back to his disciples' minds things they heard him say. That holy spirit would have been poured out by him. They wrote the gospel accounts. He spoke from heaven to Saul (Paul). He gave the apostle John the Revelation in signs (in a vision). He had able disciples such as Luke who traced all things things accurately from the beginning and wrote them in logical order. Clearly he did not need to write.
  14. *** bh chap. 11 p. 112 pars. 15-16 Why Does God Allow Suffering? *** "15 Why, though, has Jehovah allowed suffering to go on for so long? And why does he not prevent bad things from happening? Well, consider two things that the teacher in our illustration would not do. First, he would not stop the rebel student from presenting his case. Second, the teacher would not help the rebel to make his case. Similarly, consider two things that Jehovah has determined not to do. First, he has not stopped Satan and those who side with him from trying to prove that they are right. Allowing time to pass has thus been necessary. In the thousands of years of human history, mankind has been able to try every form of self-rule, or human government. Mankind has made some advances in science and other fields, but injustice, poverty, crime, and war have grown ever worse. Human rule has now been shown to be a failure. 16 Second, Jehovah has not helped Satan to rule this world. If God were to prevent horrible crimes, for instance, would he not, in effect, be supporting the case of the rebels? Would God not be making people think that perhaps humans can govern themselves without disastrous results? If Jehovah were to act in that way, he would become party to a lie. However, “it is impossible for God to lie.”—Hebrews 6:18." ========= I don't pretend to have the answers, but Jehovah did not stop the great wind that struck the house and killed Job's children, nor did he stop the fire that came from heaven killing Job's sheep and his attendants. He did not stop the violent windstorm that nearly killed the disciples in the boat of the lake on the sea of Galilee. In Job's case it was an event from Satan which Jehovah agreed to permit. In the case with the boat that nearly filled up with water due to the storm while Jesus was asleep, it turned out that Jesus was able to display his ability to calm the wind, thereby showing his future power over the elements as King of God's Kingdom. Jehovah has given Jesus power to also undo death so Job will get back his children in the resurrection. (Luke 8:25; Job 1:16,19; John 3:8) However, I like the point in paragraph 16 above which shows that if Jehovah prevented all horrible events from happening (including weather events - and weather disasters are often aftereffects of the mistaken and selfish decisions/work of man) he would in effect be making people think that humans can govern themselves without any disastrous results and would then become party to a lie. In the new world all earthly systems will be healed and all Jehovah's sons will be taught by him and "they will do no harm or cause any ruin". Everything and everyone will obediently cooperate for peace and harmony of the universe. Bold Text - mine.
  15. Also, some of these private institutions also get subventions from government which come from tax payers. In any case, we should not be too quick to judge. Life is complicated and things are not as straightforward as they seem.
  16. Since Jesus is the executive king for the earth since 1914, it is likely that he knows. Agree with the Article above. Just enlarging on above: When we catch a train, a bus or a plane, to go somewhere, we usually know fairly precisely when the vehicle will arrive. Though no one will wish to be dogmatic, we know it is reasonable that if someone is given an assignment and he has to complete all segments of that assignment, he will usually know when the end part is coming up. Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matt 28:18-20). He would know when to initiate, how long he has to wait for results and when to wrap things up. Jesus has set out on his triumphant rise of world conquest since 1914; surely he is nearing the wrapping up session. And he should know this precisely. Once we do what we are told we will be all right.
  17. There are not many alternatives in the English language which are not tainted as well. Good fortune? But this came from the name of the Roman Goddess of good luck and fortune. Read recently of a missionary who used to wish people everlasting life when they wished him a Happy Christmas. Some meaningful alternatives could be: God Bless You! Take care! You are in my prayers! You are in my thoughts! Best Wishes! May you have strength! (Isaiah 65:11) But you are among those forsaking Jehovah, Those forgetting my holy mountain, Those setting a table for the god of Good Luck, And those filling up cups of mixed wine for the god of Destiny. In light of the above scripture it would not be fitting to engage in those sayings you mentioned.
  18. Continuing from above. *** w09 3/15 pp. 24-25 par. 3 Righteous Ones Will Praise God Forever *** 3 Jehovah rewarded Jesus with something that his Son did not have in his prehuman existence—indestructible life in heaven. (Heb. 7:15-17, 28) Jehovah was pleased to do this because Jesus had kept perfect integrity under severe tests. Jesus thereby provided his Father with the best, yes the complete, answer to Satan’s lie that humans serve God with selfish motives and not out of unbreakable love.—Prov. 27:11. Jesus had a right to eternal life before he came to earth; and that is why he could ransom the human race and buy back life for us. (Isa 9:6 Eternal Father) However as the article and the scripture shows he was rewarded with an indestructible life - which he never had before. *Bold text inserted by M Mills
  19. You have to consider also why the "second death" will be kept on the books. "Adamic" death will be gone forever; however, the second death will be reserved just in case someone "gets ideas" in the future. The precedents will have been set and there will be no delay in using the second death to rid the earth of any possible future willful sin/rebellion, although that will be unlikely after the final test. Just imagine if immortality and everlasting life were the same. What would Jehovah be able to do to Satan after he had sinned? The effect is similar, but one (everlasting life) depends on continuing to obey Jehovah out of love and respecting all the laws of nature; whereas one (immortality) cannot be touched by death at all. Jehovah's wisdom is past tracing out - nothing can pass him; he is always prepared.(Romans 11:33) O the depth of God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How unsearchable his judgments are and beyond tracing out his ways are! (Revelation 20:6) . . .Happy and holy is anyone having part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no authority, but they will be priests of God and of the Christ, and they will rule as kings with him for the 1,000 years. (Hebrews 7:15-17) 15 And this becomes even clearer when another priest arises who is like Mel·chizʹe·dek, 16 who has become such, not by the legal requirement that depends on fleshly descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. 17 For it is said in witness of him: “You are a priest forever in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek.” (Revelation 20:14, 15) 14 And death and the Grave were hurled into the lake of fire. This means the second death, the lake of fire. 15 Furthermore, whoever was not found written in the book of life was hurled into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:9, 10) 9 And they advanced over the whole earth and encircled the camp of the holy ones and the beloved city. But fire came down out of heaven and consumed them. 10 And the Devil who was misleading them was hurled into the lake of fire and sulfur, where both the wild beast and the false prophet already were; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. Satan therefore has a destructible life (as well as other heavenly creatures). It goes without saying that Jehovah is the Source of Life - no point discussing the quality of his life. However, Jesus' faithfulness has been proven in heaven and on earth. He has been rewarded with an indestructible life (see Hebrews 7 above). The 144,000 are rewarded with an indestructible life for their faithfulness on earth. At their final sealing Jehovah will be certain about that. Their faithfulness will continue in their heavenly station as the following scripture shows. (Revelation 14:13) 13 And I heard a voice out of heaven say, “Write: Happy are the dead who die in union with the Lord from this time onward. Yes, says the spirit, let them rest from their labors, for the things they did go right with them.”
  20. Jay has a double negative in that sentence. I think he is saying we should not dissuade them form partaking, if so.
  21. Yes, immortality is different from everlasting life. But the anointed will have immortality in the heavens. The faithful angels are benefiting from everlasting life but the anointed will have immortality, like Jesus. They will not/cannot ever die. (John 17:17) Sanctify them by means of the truth; your word is truth. (Romans 15:4) For all the things that were written beforehand were written for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope. (1 Corinthians 15:50-54) 50 But I tell you this, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit God’s Kingdom, nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Look! I tell you a sacred secret: We will not all fall asleep in death, but we will all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the blink of an eye, during the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised up incorruptible, and we will be changed. 53 For this which is corruptible must put on incorruption, and this which is mortal must put on immortality. 54 But when this which is corruptible puts on incorruption and this which is mortal puts on immortality, then the saying that is written will take place: “Death is swallowed up forever.. . .
  22. *** Bible Citations *** (James 2:18) Nevertheless, someone will say: “You have faith, and I have works. Show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:26) Indeed, just as the body without spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead. Faith is part of the fruitage of the spirit and it causes one to produce fine works that please God.
  23. *** w15 9/15 p. 4 par. 6 Are You Reaching the Stature That Belongs to Christ? *** 6 We understand, though, that love is just one aspect of the fruitage of the spirit that a mature Christian displays. (Gal. 5:22, 23) Other aspects—such as mildness, self-control, and patience—are important too. They can help him to handle difficult situations without becoming irritated and to endure heartbreaking disappointments without losing hope. In his program of personal study, he continually searches for Scriptural principles that can help him to distinguish right from wrong. Thereafter, when he makes decisions, he gives evidence of spiritual maturity. For instance, he listens to his Bible-trained conscience. The mature Christian shows humility in that he recognizes that Jehovah’s ways and standards are always better than his own. He zealously preaches the good news and contributes to the unity of the congregation.
  24. Last I heard on it was that we should say fruitage. Just check the CD for the last discussion on it.
  25. Growing up as a perfect boy “Jesus’ parents also recognized their responsibility as regards discipline. True, during his prehuman existence, Jesus had always been obedient. But while on earth, he learned to be obedient under entirely new circumstances. For one thing, he had to obey imperfect parents because even a perfect child needs discipline in the form of instruction and education. This his parents provided. Discipline in the form of punishment, on the other hand, was unnecessary. Jesus always obeyed; he never had to be told twice. We read: “Then he went home with them [his parents] to Nazareth and was obedient to them.”—Luke 2:51, Phillips.”*** w92 10/1 p. 27 Learn Obedience by Accepting Discipline *** Luke 2:51) Then he went down with them and returned to Nazʹa·reth, and he continued subject to them. Also, his mother carefully kept all these sayings in her heart. The Carpenter’s son "It seems likely that Mary’s husband, Joseph, had already died. If so, Mary was no stranger to loss. Jesus was now called not only “the carpenter’s son” but also “the carpenter.” Evidently, Jesus had taken over his father’s business and had assumed the role of provider for the family, which included at least six children who were born after him. (Matthew 13:55, 56; Mark 6:3) Even if Jesus had been training James—likely the next oldest son—to carry on the trade, the departure of the eldest would not be easy for the family. Mary already bore a heavy load; did she dread this transition? We can only guess. But here is a more important question: How would she respond when Jesus of Nazareth became Jesus Christ, the long-promised Messiah? One Bible account reveals something in that regard.—John 2:1-12" *** w14 5/1 p. 12 She Survived the Sword of Grief *** What else transpired is not necessary to know (John 21:25) There are also, in fact, many other things that Jesus did, which if ever they were written in full detail, I suppose the world itself could not contain the scrolls written. (1 Corinthians 4:6) 6 Now, brothers, these things I have applied to myself and A·polʹlos for your good, that through us you may learn the rule: “Do not go beyond the things that are written,” so that you may not be puffed up with pride, favoring one against the other. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.
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