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22 hours ago, AllenSmith said:
No one has the POWER to save your soul.
The Watchtower believes it does – it’s called reinstatement.
I do pray you wake up from your stupor! You say the right words, you presented good information, but can’t see the forest for the “apostate” trees!
Matt 3:10 – “The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Who are the trees? They are the spirit-anointed ones. Ps 1:3; Jer 17:8; Ezek 47:12; Rev 22:1,2 Out of their mouths are to flow “living water” from Christ, NOT their own opinions or understanding or timelines. John 4:10,13,14; 7:37,38; Matt 12:35,37; 1 Thess 5:1-3
You are eliminating the governing body from those who “lean on their own understanding”. This composite entity has taught millions of people false doctrine, based on their own understanding. The individual in the video woke up to that fact. Is he to blame for rejecting falsehoods and leaving them behind, or is the source of the falsehood the one to receive the blame? Jer 8:8,9 Yet, you excuse the governing body’s actions. Are they Christ? Are they Moses?
Again:
In the past, we thought that the great tribulation began in 1914 when World War I started. We thought that Jehovah “cut short” those days in 1918 when the war ended so that the remaining anointed ones on earth could preach the good news to all nations. (Matthew 24:21, 22) After that preaching work would be completed, we expected that Satan’s world would be destroyed. So we thought that there were three parts to the great tribulation. It would begin in 1914, it would be interrupted in 1918, and it would finish at Armageddon. ws13 7/15 pp. 3-8
Of course, we can't forget the generation analogies.
22 hours ago, AllenSmith said:So, those that have been enlightened only to fall away by their own understanding, have become worse than a pagan or tax collector.
Who do you think has “fallen away” and misled “many” by their own “depraved conduct”? 2 Pet 2:1-3 The “wolves in sheep’s clothing” are among you! Luke 21:8; Acts 20:29; Rev 13:11
22 hours ago, AllenSmith said:There lies the teaching of Christ for a TRUE follower, and it hasn’t changed in over 1900 hundred years, other than to REVERT the early false teaching of those that looked upon it for their personal gain in POWER, rather than become followers of Christ.
I would hope you see how the teachings of Christ have changed by Watchtower’s doctrines! WHO has power over the entire anointed Body of Christ and over all sheep? Is it Christ, or men? Again, these men are not Moses or Christ. The man in the video rejected false doctrine as we are admonished by scripture to do. Jer 23:16; Isa 9:15,16 Yet, he is most likely disfellowshipped for doing so and judged as a lost soul. Mark 10:42-45; John 16:2,3
Just as the true followers of Christ rejected the Pharisees, the true followers of Christ today, FOLLOW CHRIST AND NOT WICKED MEN who are looking for their own personal gain. Both then and now, only a remnant are found to leave lies…which is every conceivable wayward thought TAUGHT AS DOCTRINE BY THE GOVERNING BODY…behind.
22 hours ago, AllenSmith said:Therefore, what can a person that REJECTS scripture due to their own perceived understanding of it, by blaming others and using that as an excuse, can offer another? Exodus 32:22-24, Matthew 25:41-45
Romans 1:20
Watchtower 07/9/1 p 31 Question from Readers:
What did Jesus mean when he said that his faithful slave would be “discreet”?
Consider also Jesus’ use of the word “discreet” at Matthew 7:24. Jesus said: “Everyone that hears these sayings of mine and does them will be likened to a discreet man, who built his house upon the rock-mass.” The discreet man builds solidly, in view of the possibility of a storm. In contrast, the foolish man builds on sand and loses his house. THUS, a discreet follower of Jesus is one who foresees the bad consequences of FOLLOWING HUMAN WISDOM. His discernment and good judgment lead him to base his faith, actions, and teachings FIRMLY on what Jesus taught.
“The faithful and discreet slave” acts similarly.
Does it really? “Beliefs Clarified” come to mind. Every example of those changed teachings is none other than foolishness and human wisdom, the governing body’s “own perceived understanding of it”. Every “clarified” teaching is an attempt to “mortar” the cracks in Watchtower’s walls. Ezek 13:10-16; Isa 30:8-14; 1 Thess 5:3
Have they blamed others for their own foolish teaching failures? Yes. They blame the sheep. I can give you examples.
“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.“ Acts 20:28-30
JWs call “Beliefs Clarified”, “new light”. That alone is a clever twist on what are obvious falsehoods. The meaning of “perverse things” – to distort or turn aside, corrupt (the truth!), turn aside from the right path; which is every falsehood the governing body has presented before the sheep as “truth”. They could care less about “sparing the flock”, but only for drawing away disciples after themselves – with continuous empty promises. 2 Cor 11:4,19,20
“to oppose, plot against, the saving purposes and plans of God” The greatest instigator to plot against Christ’s seed is Satan. He uses individuals to do his work and carry out his will. 2 Cor 11:13-15 The best option is to win over anointed ones to ‘plot against the saving purposes and plans of God” that involves the anointed ones. Matt 24:15; 2 Thess 2:1-12; Rev 13:1,7,8,11,14-17; 9:1; 8:10,11
DO NOT DECEIVE YOURSELF WITH FALSE REASONING WATCHTOWER 2011
“WHAT is this you have done?” God asked Eve after she had eaten from the forbidden tree. “The serpent —it deceived me and so I ate,” she replied. (Gen. 3:13) Satan, the crafty serpent who led her to disobey God, was later called “the original serpent, . . . who is misleading the entire inhabited earth.” —Rev. 12:9.
This Genesis account presents Satan as cunning, as one who spins lies with the intention of deceiving the unwary. Eve certainly succumbed to his deceit. Nevertheless, we should not think that Satan is the only one who can mislead us. The Bible also warns about the danger of ‘deceiving ourselves with false reasoning.’ —Jas. 1:22.
The thought of deceiving ourselves may seem highly improbable or even impossible. The divine warning, however, is obviously there for a purpose. So we would do well to consider how we might deceive ourselves and what sort of false reasoning could mislead us.
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” Gal 6:7,8
Are you being deceived by false reasoning, handed out to you as life-giving nourishment from “Jehovah’s organization” – an idol that requires your “gold”? Exodus 32:22-24
In the time of the end, there is both a faithful and discreet slave/steward over his anointed House, chosen from among the faithful slaves, to care for Jesus’ belongings –which are his sheep. Matt.24:46-47; 28:18; Ps.2:8; Gen.13:14-15; 28:13-14; Dan.7:18)
…as well as his Truth/”gold” Rev 3:18; John 14:6;1:14; Ps 119:89; Matt 6:20; Isa 40:8; Luke 21:33; John 5:24; 6:27,51,55
And a wicked slave who maligns the Truth, deceives many with fabricated stories and tosses out their “fellow slaves” for speaking Christ’s Truth. Matt 24:48-51
One appears magnificent, strong, powerful, with false humility, and having with a large following. The “faithful slave” on the other hand, appears as Jesus did – rejected, lowly, weak and despised; tossed out of the “synagogue”, yet blessed with Holy Spirit. 1 Cor 1:26-29
You will know them by their “fruits”. Matt 7:16-20
Rom 1:20-25
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image (“Jehovah’s spirit-directed organization”)made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature (Jehovah’s spirit-directed organization) rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. Rom 1:20-25
Can you, in your mind, separate God from the organization? Can you walk away from it and give God the exclusive devotion that He demands? Exod 20:4,5; Isa 45:5
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To follow, are three quotes from the Watchtower concerning the “spiritual temple”:
Watchtower 15/7/1 pp. 3-8: “What is the center of true worship today? It is not a building like the temple. It is a spiritual temple, and it glorifies Jehovah more than any building ever could. What is the spiritual temple? It is GOD’S ARRANGEMENT that allows humans to become his friends and to worship him. This arrangement is only possible because of Jesus’ ransom. This arrangement began in the year 29 when Jesus was baptized and anointed as High Priest of Jehovah’s spiritual temple. —Hebrews 9:11, 12.
What sort of arrangement is the Watchtower referring to?
Today, before the anointed on earth begin serving as priests with Jesus in heaven, they faithfully serve Jehovah IN THE EARTHLY PART OF THE SPIRITUAL TEMPLE. Millions of “other sheep” loyally assist them. (John 10:16) Both groups unitedly worship Jehovah. However, we should ask ourselves a personal question, ‘Am I fully supporting JEHOVAH’S ARRANGEMENT for true worship?’
What exactly is meant by the “earthly part of the spiritual temple?”
Watchtower 17/10 pp. 21-26: “As well as being King and High Priest, Jesus was assigned to “build the temple of Jehovah.” (Read Zechariah 6:13.) In 1919, he did this building work by setting God’s people free from the influence of false religion, Babylon the Great. Jesus restored the congregation and appointed a “faithful and discreet slave.” This group of anointed brothers directs the important work that is being done here in the earthly part of the GREAT SPIRITUAL TEMPLE. (Matthew 24:45)
Again, there is no exact definition of just what is the “great spiritual temple”, only suggestive references that one surmises as comprised of all members of the organization. It appears to be the organizational arrangement. Isn’t this what you conclude, JWs? However, the Watchtower’s leaders have circumvented the identity of the true Temple with vague definitions leading you to believe that the Temple of God must be the organization; subsequently, you are seduced into thinking it can only be, Mount Zion.
Solomon proclaimed that the temple he would build for God, would be “a great spiritual temple”; and it was for a fact, a magnificent physical achievement. He exclaimed, “And the temple which I build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build Him a temple, since heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Him? Who am I then, that I should build Him a temple, except to burn sacrifice before Him?” 2 Chron 2:5,6 (9); 2 Chron 6:2 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Chron+2%3A9%3B+6%3A2&version=NKJV
Still, “the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s house”, even though God’s words to David reveal to us a greater temple that was to come – the anointed Body of Christ. 2 Chron 7:1,2,12; 5:13; John 2:19-22; 1 Chron 14:11; 1 Chron 17:9-14
Something greater than Solomon is here, and it isn’t the Watchtower leaders and their earthly organization. Matt 12:42
“HE – Jesus Christ - shall build Me a HOUSE, and I will establish his throne forever.” 1 Chron 17:12
Consider the quote from Watchtower’s “Insight” Book, pp. 513,514:
“Peter quoted and applied to Jesus Christ this prophecy (Isa 28:16) regarding the “foundation cornerstone” on which individual anointed Christians are built up as “living stones,” TO BECOME A SPIRITUAL HOUSE OR TEMPLE . (1Pe 2:4-6)
This is true. God’s Temple is built with the “living stones” of His anointed priesthood and a “chosen race” and possession, with Jesus Christ as its cornerstone. 1 Pet 2:5,9,10; Isa 43:10
Why would the Watchtower not explain this ‘great spiritual Temple’ of God as the holy priesthood? Why skirt around the Temple’s true identity, that each one of these “stones” is the dwelling place of God’s spirit? 1 Cor 3:16,17 If they were transparent about its true definition, what would be the result? The eyes of JWs would be focused on God’s true Temple that the Lord is building using these “living stones”. It would be a natural thing to seek out the anointed ones in their assigned roles of working as one anointed Body in teaching God’s laws. Under a faithful House “steward”, the administrating of spiritual food would be gathered from the entire Body for the benefit of all. Mal 2:7; Isa 2:3; John 13:20; Eph 4:4,5,11-13; Rom 12:4-8; 1 Cor 12:12-36; 1 Cor 12:28;9:12; Matt.24:46,48,49; Luke12:37,45,47 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isa+28%3A16%3B1+Pet+2%3A4-6%3B1+Pet+2%3A5%2C9%2C10%3B+Isa+43%3A10%3B1+Cor+3%3A16%2C17%3BMal+2%3A7%3B+Isa+2%3A3%3B+John+13%3A20%3B+Eph+4%3A4%2C5%2C11-13%3B+Rom+12%3A4-8%3B+1+Cor+12%3A12-36%3B+1+Cor+12%3A28%3B9%3A12%3B+Matt.24%3A46%2C48%2C49%3B+Luke12%3A37%2C45%2C47&version=NKJV
Although scripture supports this, it isn’t the case among the members of the organization, is it! Truthfully, it could never come to fruition since Watchtower’s foundation is not in Christ who is Truth, but built on the shifting sands of failed and false doctrine. John 14:6; 15:16; Matt 7:24-27 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A6%3BJohn+15%3A16%3B+Matt+7%3A24-27&version=NKJV
I have used these quotes several times from Watchtower’s study article, “We Want to Go With You” (2016). They vividly expose the GB/spiritual Harlot and her Beast/ “man of lawlessness” “trampling” God’s Temple. 2 Thess 2:3,4; Matt 24:15; Dan 8:13;11:31; Rev 11:2;13:1,7,11,12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Thess+2%3A3%2C4%3B+Matt+24%3A15%3B+Dan+8%3A13%3B11%3A31%3B+Rev+11%3A2%3B13%3A1%2C7%2C11%2C12&version=NKJV
“Do those of the other sheep need to know the names of all those who are anointed today? The short answer is no.”
“Modestly, anointed ones acknowledge that they do not necessarily have more holy spirit than those with an earthly hope. They do not claim to have special knowledge or revelations; neither do they try to prove that they are in some way superior. “
“In addition, anointed Christians do not view themselves as being part of an elite club. They do not seek out others who claim to have the same calling, hoping to bond with them or endeavoring to form private groups for Bible study. Gal. 1:15-17 Such efforts would cause divisions within the congregation and work against the holy spirit, which promotes peace and unity. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gal+1%3A15-17&version=NKJV
Side point: Gal 1:15-17 is disregarded when Watchtower tries to prove the existence of a “governing body” in the first century. They also sidetrack several scriptures (see above) by that same writer of Galatians, admonishing the anointed Body to be joined as one with no divisions; building up and exhorting each member as equally important, which is not practiced by the Watchtower. Instead, the Body of Christ has lost its scriptural meaning and is taught to include all members in the organization.
The above demeaning quotes and sarcastic claims about God’s Chosen “stones” accomplish the opposite of what the article boldly pronounces, “We Want to Go with You”. Are you inspired as a JW to “go” with these people, or is it mandated that you ignore them with doubts that they may not be anointed? The organization uses a frequent tactic by beginning an article’s lead with a scriptural valid truth, then proceeds to fill the mind with excuses and coverup for their own unscriptural actions.
On the other hand, do you harbor any doubts about the governing body’s self-imposed anointed position as a “faithful slave”? Most likely, no; unless you are waking up to their hypocrisy.
To those physical Gentiles that merged with physical Israel to become the anointed spiritual “Israel”, Paul said:
“So then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh—called “the uncircumcised” by those called “the circumcised,” which is done in the flesh by human hands. 12 At that time you were without Christ, excluded from the citizenship of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
“So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building, being put together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you are also being built together for God’s dwelling in the Spirit.” Eph 2:11-13,19-22
The Watchtower is not assisting and supporting the “building” of this Temple; rather, its motive is to bring it to a halt by teaching JWs to NEGLECT God’s Temple; to disregard the anointed priesthood. For instead, it inspires you to build and support the Watchtower organization – a counterfeit, idolatrous “Zion”. Exod 20:4,5; Rom 1:21,22,25 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exod+20%3A4%2C5%3B+Rom+1%3A21%2C22%2C25++&version=NKJV
As the result of the “handwriting on the wall”, Babylon and its ruler, fell to the Persian conqueror Cyrus the Great, on the very night the words were written by God. Cyrus’ clever maneuver of diverting the waters of the Euphrates took the city by surprised. Dan.5:5,6,22-31
When King Cyrus defeated Babylon, he decreed that the Jews return home and rebuild the temple according to the measurements he had set out for them. Ezra 1:1,2 This was a fulfillment spoken by the prophet Isaiah 200 years before its occurrence. Isa 44:26-28; 45:1 A small remnant of Jews began making their way back to Jerusalem, full of fervor and determination to rebuild the temple. Ezra 1:1-4 ; 4:3 ; 5:13-17 ; 6:3-5https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Dan.5%3A5%2C6%2C22-31%3BEzra+1%3A1-4+%3B+4%3A3+%3B+5%3A13-17+%3B+6%3A3-5+&version=NKJV
Within two years after the altar of sacrifice was set up, the foundation work commenced and was finished. Other nations observed this activity; nations who had further established their claim in the land while the Jews were in Babylon for seventy years. They began opposing the building, particularly the Samaritans, a mixed race of both Israel and foreign nations who attested to worshipping God, but cherished their idols as well. Through bribery, deceitful intentions and intimidation, they succeeded in bringing any further construction of God’s Temple to a complete halt for a time believed to be fifteen or sixteen years. Ezra 4:1-5 Faced with such resistance, the people turned their attention away from God’s House, and settled into the routine of everyday living, which included intermingling with pagans and their idols; the very thing that brought about their captivity in Babylon. They had turned on their own brotherhood, selling their children and relatives as slaves. Neh 5:6-9 This negligence toward God and pure worship came with a price. The result was physical famine for men women, children and animals. Ezra 4:24; Haggai 1:10,11;2:17-19; Neh 5:1-3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezra+4%3A1-5%3B+Neh+5%3A6-9%3BEzra+4%3A24%3B+Haggai+1%3A10%2C11%3B2%3A17-19%3B+Neh+5%3A1-3++&version=NKJV
In the April 2018 JW Broadcast, it was stated:
“It’s good to remember the people during the days of Haggai. When the Jews lost their focus and started neglecting Jehovah’s temple, they lost his blessing and protection spiritually. And what was the result?”
Then the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, saying, 4 “Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?” 5 Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: “Consider your ways!
6 “You have sown much, and bring in little;
You eat, but do not have enough;
You drink, but you are not filled with drink;
You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm;
And he who earns wages,
Earns wages to put into a bag with holes.” Haggai 1:3-6For almost a hundred years after leaving Babylon, the Jews faced opposition and famine until the temple and wall were restored. Nehemiah 1:3 The prophets Ezra, Nehemiah and Haggai were instrumental in their assigned capacity to motivate the people to turn back to God and complete the work. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Neh+1%3A3&version=NKJV
The Wt. speaker continues, “of course, our focus is not material prosperity, because whether we have an abundance of material things or not, if we fail to receive Jehovah’s blessing our spirituality is jeopardized.”
Today’s Temple of God is not built with hands, but by the Father and the Son. John 2:19-21;Acts 7:48 The organization deceitfully hides this fact, and its members suffer spiritual famine. Why?
· Because God’s spiritual dwelling and House of prayer where His laws are found on the hearts of His priests, is not utilized. Instead, “worship”, loyalty, devotion and dedication is given to an idol – the organization, on a par with worshipping God. (Neh 8:1-3); Isa 56:7; Heb 10:16,17; Deut 6:6-8; Rev 13:11,14,16,17;17:1,2,6; 18:4-8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+2%3A19-21%3BActs+7%3A48%3B+Neh+8%3A1-3%3B+Isa+56%3A7%3B+Heb+10%3A16%2C17%3B++Deut+6%3A6-8%3B+Rev+13%3A11%2C14%2C16%2C17%3B17%3A1%2C2%2C6%3B+18%3A4-8++&version=NKJV
· The GB authorizes the “killing”/disfellowshipping of “fellow servants” for refusing their paltry spiritual food, as well as for speaking Truth. Matt 24:48-51; John 16:2; 1 John 3:10-12; Gen 4:8,11,12; 2 Pet 2:1-3; Rev 11:3,7-10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A48-51%3B+John+16%3A2%3B+1+John+3%3A10-12%3B+Gen+4%3A8%2C11%2C12%3B+2+Pet+2%3A1-3%3B+Rev+11%3A3%2C7-10++&version=NKJV
· Famine also exists because its leaders have left their covenant with Christ to accept and teach “fruit” from another “tree”. (Gen 3:17,18) Amos 8:11,12; Isa 65:13; Matt 7:15-19; John 15:4,5; Rev 16:13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen+3%3A17%2C18%3B+Amos+8%3A11%2C12%3B+Isa+65%3A13%3B+Matt+7%3A15-19%3B+John+15%3A4%2C5%3B+Rev+16%3A13+&version=NKJV
· Spiritual famine permeates the organization, since another spirit is bestowed on the Wild Beast and the Harlot, who have it in their heart to oppose the completion of God’s Temple. Matt 24:15; 2 Thess 2:1-4,9-12; Rev 13:1,6,7,11,15 God’s priesthood has allowed the modern day “Samaritans” – leaders of spiritual “Israel” and “Gentiles”/”man of lawlessness” to persuade them with similar tactics as happened in Ezra, Nehemiah and Haggai’s day – confusion, bribery, threats and lies to keep these “stones” from their restoration into God’s Temple. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15%3B+2+Thess+2%3A1-4%2C9-12%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C6%2C7%2C11%2C15&version=NKJV
Ezra 4:1,2: “When the enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the returned exiles were building a temple for the Lord, the God of Israel, 2 they approached Zerubbabel and the family heads and said to them, “Let us build with you, for we also worship your God and have been sacrificing to him since the time King Esar-haddon of Assyria brought us here.”
JWs, your memorial song, “A Special Possession” seems innocent enough; an apparent loving recognition of the spirit anointed ones, which really only scrapes the surface of their identity or and the work they must perform for God, Christ and for YOU. For the rest of the year, this “special possession” is pushed in a corner and silenced; and expected to obey a Wicked Slave and its “Gentile” rulership, NOT their High Priest, Jesus Christ. This is no different than the enemies’ comment to Israel in Ezra 4:1,2 – hypocritical and deceitful. Isa 30:8-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isa+30%3A8-11&version=NKJV
The prophets sent by God encouraged Israel to complete the Temple and the wall, by bringing God’s laws back to remembrance, inciting them to repent of pagan influence and to give exclusive devotion to the Almighty One.
The end time opposition against completing God’s Temple today is two-fold. Not only are the anointed and all JWs caught up in deception and the complacency that God’s “great spiritual house” is growing through the representation of the organization, God’s people and companions are still held captive in “Babylon”. 1 Thess 5:3; Jer 8:11; Luke 21:24; Rev 13:4-8,10; Col 2:8;2 Tim 2:25,26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thess+5%3A3%3B+Jer+8%3A11%3B+Luke+21%3A24%3B+Rev+13%3A4-8%2C10%3B+Col+2%3A8%3B2+Tim+2%3A25%2C26&version=NKJV
Today, “Elijah” has come to restore all things. Ezek 22:30; Isa 63:5; Matt 17:10,11;13:41; Mal 3:1-3; Ps 66:10-12;Haggai 2:6; Heb 12: 25-27;Dan 12:10,3,4; Rev 11:3; Zech 4:14,5-7; Isa 30:18-26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezek+22%3A30%3B+Isa+63%3A5%3B+Matt+17%3A10%2C11%3B13%3A41%3B+Mal+3%3A1-3%3B+Ps+66%3A10-12%3BHaggai+2%3A6%3B+Heb+12%3A+25-27%3BDan+12%3A10%2C3%2C4%3B+Rev+11%3A3%3B+Zech+4%3A14%2C5-7%3B+Isa+30%3A18-26++++&version=NKJV
Pearl Doxsey:
“Who is identified as the faithful who offer the bread sourced in heaven?
"They" who provide food, sustain the "woman" (Rev.12:6; 11:3) during the end-time famine,
and are symbolized by "two witnesses" (Moses and Elijah -Matt.17:3; John8:17).
["Women" = covenants -Gal.4:24,26 (Rev.12:1,2,5,6; 2:26,27)]The source of their light/oil/bread, is no mystery (Rev.11:3,4; Zech.4:6,11,12,14; John15:5).
When these offer what they are given, they will provide "the proper food at the proper time",
during a famine which forbids such provisions (Rev.6:6; 13:17; 6:9).
Just as prophesied....the wayward nation of Chosen Ones will have a remnant that will repent of their idolatry to the "Image" of the Wild Beast (Rev.2:5,16,22,23; 3:1,2,3,4,15,16,17,18,19,20; Isa.10:22; Joel2:32; Zech.13:9; Rev.12:4; 7:9-10,13-14). Those prophets among them will be "caused to prophesy" (Rev.11:3), providing the proper food at the proper time during this famine (Dan.12:1,3-4,7-12; 9:25-26; Phil.2:15), and thereby, strengthen their mother covenant (who was in danger of being swept away by Satanic lies (Rev.12:15; 16:13; 2Pet.3:17;Luke17:26,27; Dan.9:26; Eph.4:14).”
“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” John 7:37-39
“Or do you not know that your body is the TEMPLE of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” 1 Cor 6:19
“Then he brought me back to the door of the temple; and there was water, flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east, for the front of the temple faced east; the water was flowing from under the right side of the temple, south of the altar. Ezek 47:1
Again he measured one thousand, and it was a river that I could not cross; for the water was too deep, water in which one must swim, a river that could not be crossed.
When I returned, there, along the bank of the river, were very many trees on one side and the other.
Along the bank of the river, on this side and that, will grow all kinds of trees used for food; their leaves will not wither, and their fruit will not fail. They will bear fruit every month, because their water flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for medicine.”Ezek 47:5,7,12
“And he showed me a pureriver of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2 In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the NATIONS.” Rev 22:1,2
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”’ Rev 2:7
“But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the gloryof God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. 24 And the NATIONS OF THOSE WHO ARE SAVED shall walk in its light, and the kings of the earth (“144,000” anointed priests – Rev 14:1;5:9,10) bring their glory and honor INTO it.” Rev 21:22-24
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rev+14%3A1%3B5%3A9%2C10&version=NKJV
Pearl Doxsey has related articles on her blog:
“A Hidden Famine, A Hidden Feast”
“Anointed Flock, The Truth”
“Is There a Faithful Slave?”
“The Two Witnesses – Elijah and Moses”
“Two Trees – Past and Present”
4womaninthewilderness
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“The coming of the lawless one (who rules/sits over the “temple” of God, the anointed ones:  1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22; 2 Thess 2:1-4; Rev 13:1,5-8;Matt 24:15;Dan 11:31; Rev 11:1-3) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Pet+2%3A5%2C9%3B+1+Cor+3%3A16%2C17%3B+Eph+2%3A20-22%3B+2+Thess+2%3A1-4%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C5-8%3BMatt+24%3A15%3BDan+11%3A31%3B+Rev+11%3A1-3&version=NKJV
is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them a strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,  that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess 2:9-12
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Pearl Doxsey at 4womaninthewilderness:
“No Part of the World”
“The Sign of the Son of Man”
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All their immediate needs are met; everything and every form of service is provided for their benefit and is at their fingertips. Their living circumstances may be even more comfortable than we may assume. They have the luxury of dressing and eating well, traveling and seeing the world, and personally escorted wherever needed.
But, they lack one thing. “Wisdom from above”. Dan.12:3,9,10; Rev.11:3; 1:1; Isa.5:13; 65:13; Luke16:24,25,26; Matt.25:8,9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Dan.12%3A3%2C9%2C10%3B+Rev.11%3A3%3B+1%3A1%3B+Isa.5%3A13%3B+65%3A13%3B+Luke16%3A24%2C25%2C26%3B+Matt.25%3A8%2C9&version=NKJV
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by GOOD CONDUCT THAT HIS …
~~~~~WORKS~~~~~
…ARE DONE IN THE MEEKNESS OF WISDOM.” James 3:13
“The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or in organizational direction.“ WT 17/2 pp. 23-28 (Matt 7:15-20) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+7%3A15-20&version=NKJV
“But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, DO NOT BOAST AND LIE AGAINST THE TRUTH.” James 3:14
Gerrit Losch, governing body member, speaks on JW Broadcast, March 2018:
“So whom do you trust? You fully trust in Jehovah, Jesus, and the “faithful slave”.
“This is not to say that the slave is perfect and never makes mistakes, but Jehovah and Jesus trust the imperfect slave who cares for things to the best of his ability AND WITH THE BEST OF MOTIVES. Shouldn’t we then trust the imperfect slave as well?”
“To appreciate the extent of Jehovah’s and Jesus’ trust in the faithful slave reflect on what he has promised its members. He has promised them immortality and incorruption. Soon, JUST BEFORE ARMAGEDDON the remaining members of the slave will be taken to heaven.” **
“Since Jehovah God and Jesus Christ COMPLETELY trust the faithful and discreet slave, should we not do the same?”
“This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.“ James 3:15,16
“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be…
~~~~~ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS”~~~~~ 2 Cor 11:13-15
King Solomon asked for one thing from God when becoming King.
And Solomon said to God: “You have shown great and faithful love to my father David, and you have made me king in his place. 9 Lord God, let your promise to my father David now come true. For you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10 Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of yours?”
God said to Solomon, “Since this was in your heart, and you have NOT requested riches, wealth, or glory, or for the life of those who hate you, and you have NOT even requested long life, but you have requested for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may judge my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are given to you. I will also give you riches, wealth, and glory, unlike what was given to the kings who were before you, or will be given to those after you.” 2 Chron 1:8-12
The granting of wisdom from God preceded Solomon acquiring great riches. JWs, remind yourself of what “works” are happening in the organization.
An extensive history of false prophesy and replaced doctrine (“Beliefs Clarified”), Deut 18:19-22; Jer 23:16; 2 Pet 2:1-3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut+18%3A19-22%3B+Jer+23%3A16%3B+2+Pet+2%3A1-3&version=NKJV
Lawsuits over pedophilia are numerous. Jer 6:13,14; Ezek 34:2-4; Acts 20:29; Prov 17:15 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jer+6%3A13%2C14%3B+Ezek+34%3A2-4%3B+Acts+20%3A29%3B+Prov+17%3A15&version=NKJV
JWs are recently banned in Russia and all material assets have been confiscated. Deut 12:28; 2 Chron 16:7-9; 2 Chron 7:13,14; Isa 48:18; Heb 3:7-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=.+++Deut+12%3A28%3B+2+Chron+16%3A7-9%3B+2+Chron+7%3A13%2C14%3B+Isa+48%3A18%3B+Heb+3%3A7-13&version=NKJV
Disfellowshipping anointed and all for turning to Christ and rejecting the “mark of the Beast”/organization, its lies and idolatry. Mark 8:31; John 15:20; Matt 5:10,11; John 16:2; Rev 13:15-17; Eph 5:11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=.++Mark+8%3A31%3B+John+15%3A20%3B+Matt+5%3A10%2C11%3B+John+16%3A2%3B+Rev+13%3A15-17%3B+Eph+5%3A11++++&version=NKJV
As well as the “trampling” of the Temple anointed priesthood of God by the “man of lawlessness”/elder body. Matt 24:15; Luke 21:24; Dan 11:31,32,36; Rev 11:2 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15%3B+Luke+21%3A24%3B+Dan+11%3A31%2C32%2C36%3B+Rev+11%3A2&version=NKJV
None of this would exist if wisdom and knowledge from God was present in the hearts of its leaders. Isa 29:11; Matt 25:4,11,12; James 1:5; Matt 7:7,8; 1 John 2:27; Heb 8:10 Unsettling turmoil reigns within and outside of its boundaries; and Gerrit Losch is making a desperate, hypocritical attempt at covering the governing body’s earlier admittance of lacking ‘inspiration’ from God’s spirit. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isa+29%3A11%3B+Matt+25%3A4%2C11%2C12%3B+James+1%3A5%3B+Matt+7%3A7%2C8%3B+1+John+2%3A27%3B+Heb+8%3A10++&version=NKJV
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” James 3:17
Who really, has provided the full spectrum of the governing body’s earthly needs? It isn’t the Father, or Christ. Satan never promised heavenly wisdom to those who bow down to him, but only the “kingdoms of the world”; which the governing body has been given, with power and authority over God’s Chosen ones, and YOU, JWs! Matt 4:8,9; Luke 4:5-7; Matt 24:48-51; Rev 13:1,7,8,11,14-17; 2 Thess 2:9-12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+4%3A8%2C9%3B+Luke+4%3A5-7%3B+Matt+24%3A48-51%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C7%2C8%2C11%2C14-17%3B+2+Thess+2%3A9-12++&version=NKJV
Since they have already forfeited their inheritance for all that Satan’s realm provides them, the wisdom from God will never be obtained. Luke 4:8; James 4:7; 13:2; 16:13,14; Heb 12:14-17; Rev 8:10,11; Amos 8:11; Rev 18:8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+4%3A8%3B+James+4%3A7%3B+13%3A2%3B+16%3A13%2C14%3B+Heb+12%3A14-17%3B+Rev+8%3A10%2C11%3B+Amos+8%3A11%3B+Rev+18%3A8&version=NKJV
ARMAGEDDON IS HERE – the spiritual battle of truth against lies fought in the valley of “decision”. Joel 3:14 Notice too, the governing body who is so sure of their heavenly destination, is still on the earth. Instead of ascending into heaven, this composite Harlot will suffer a shocking blow when the organization brings “her” down. Rev 17:12-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joel+3%3A14%3B+Rev+17%3A12-18&version=NKJV
(“ARMAGEDDON” 4womaninthewilderness)
From Pearl Doxsey’s, “Eighth King / Punishment of the Great Harlot”:
“Many that leave the Org. today, do not do so out of a love of truth. Most reasons are selfish ones.
But we should take note that Rev.18:4 tells us to get out of the covenant of death ("Babylon the Great") and her present harlot daughter, IF WE DO NOT WANT TO SHARE IN HER SINS AND RECEIVE PART OF HER PLAGUES.
Getting out of her would no longer be possible, if she is already gone.
It should also be noted, that God is telling His own people to get out ("my people" Rev.18:4).
He is addressing His own priests (1Pet.2:10,9; Eze.37:23,27; 2Cor.6:16; Rev.21:3)
This is a conundrum for the WT. They teach that "Babylon the Great" is "Christendom".
Yet they also teach that there are no anointed in "Christendom". So how is it that
the anointed would be commanded to come out of "Christendom"?
No...God's chosen priests are being commanded to come out of what was God's City,
which has now turned their back on God, under the wicked steward's leadership.”
**Side note: The rest of the anointed are now, not considered part of the “faithful and discreet slave” as a result of “new light”. Their “heavenly reward” apparently is not a done deal, as is the "slave's".
“Do the other sheep need to know the names of all anointed ones still on earth today? No. Why not? Because it is not possible for anyone to know for sure that these ones will get their reward.” Wt 16/1 pp. 20-26
Since this sifting has occurred and only 8 men are considered the “slave”, prophesy of the “wicked slave” has been fulfilled. This quote from the Wt. alone and Losch’s cocksure words above, shows the demeaning, psychological beating down of its “fellow slaves”. Matt 24:48-51 (Matt 25:14-30)
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give them food at the proper time?” ….rejected and failed doctrine and publications is not “food at the proper time”, or “meat in due season”. John 6:27; Matt 7:19,20
“Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing his job when he comes. 47 Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 48 But if that wicked servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delayed,’ …how many failed Armageddon dates and “this generation” teachings are there?
“and starts to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards,”….who parrots the words of the GB but the elder body given power over the "holy ones" and drunk on the Harlot’s wine? Whatever decree the GB orders, the elder body carries out, against Christ’s “kings of the earth”. Rev 17:1-6; 13:1,5-7,11,12-17
50 that servant’s master will come on a day he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know. 51 He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
I implore you, JWs, wake up!
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As the result of job change many years ago, we moved the family of three young children from the vicinity of the Pacific Ocean to the vicinity of a large mountain lake in California. Until housing was found, a drafty, “caretaker’s cottage”, built around 1900 and part of once was a privately owned grand estate, was offered as temporary housing for those brief summer months. Since 1965, this estate has been a state park attracting thousands of visitors each year. A handful of these visitors ogled my dishwashing techniques from the window of our borrowed kitchen, while on their independent tour of the estate. The cottage porch sits back just a bit from the lake’s shoreline, and close by, the mouth of a small creek empties into its chilly waters. That summer, the lake level was below its natural rim; and the creek, a perfect flow for three boys to wade up and down between its banks. In this creek, a discovery was made. A gooey clay cache oozed between the toes of the oldest son’s bare feet, and soon a combined slip and clay lumps were hand scooped from the creek bottom and brought to the front porch for sculpting. Young hands formed and reformed small pots and trinkets put aside to dry in the warm sun. Because of the clay’s raw, unrefined quality, the artwork produced didn’t survive long; crumbling into dust as the summer days passed by.
During that time period as a JW entering a new congregation, I would not have recalled to mind God’s people as clay from the earth in a potter’s hands. Jer 18:6 (Acts 7:49; Mark 14:58; Matt 16:1; Mark 14:58; Matt 16:18; Eph 2:19-22) Only briefly did an anointed one join the congregation; an older woman, and very submissive to the elder body’s direction. She seemed so fragile, resulting from her age; yet now, I can envision her as “clay” in the hands of the Father. I was oblivious then, that the chosen ones were in jeopardy of becoming ‘crushed’ under the unseen heavy weight of a “Gentile”/Elder rule. Do you, JWs, realize that the power of the “holy ones” is crumbling to dust under this dominion? This is the reality in the Watchtower among God’s chosen people. Dan 2:35; 8:13; 12:7; Rev 13:1,4-8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jer+18%3A6%3B+Acts+7%3A49%3B+Mark+14%3A58%3B+Matt.16%3A18%3B+Eph+2%3A19-22%3BDan+2%3A35%3B+8%3A13%3B+12%3A7%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C4-8&version=CSB
As long as good clay remains supple in the hands of a skilled potter, a beautiful and useful formation is born. God desires this for His people under covenant with him; to fulfill His purpose for all of His children in the Kingdom. Isa 64:8; 2 Cor 4:7; Gal 6:15; 2 Tim 2:20-21; Eph 2:6,7,20-22;3:9-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isa+64%3A8%3B+2+Cor+4%3A7%3B+Gal+6%3A15%3B+2+Tim+2%3A20-21%3B+Eph+2%3A6%2C7%2C20-22%3B3%3A9-11+&version=CSB
Yet, each one since Christ, has faced a refinement period allowed by God; a sifting put upon them by Satan through dominating powers. Luke 22:31; 1 Pet 4:12,13 In the Watchtower organization, other hands and other minds are at work coercing this possession of God, to remain marked as unrefined and susceptible to complete crushing under an iron rule and its lies. Rev 2:26,27;13:16;14:9,10; 2 Thess 2:11,12 At the upper level, its anointed leaders have molded as defiled impure clay, to the iron; ‘mingling’ as one dominating power of both clay and iron; spiritual “Israel” with spiritual “Gentiles”, who are the un-anointed elder body. (Rom 9:6; Gal 6:16; 3:29) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+22%3A31%3B+1+Pet+4%3A12%2C13%3B+++Rev+2%3A26%2C27%3B13%3A16%3B14%3A9%2C10%3B+2+Thess+2%3A11%2C12%3BRom.9%3A6%3B+Gal.6%3A16%3B+3%3A29+&version=CSB
This merging of powers is depicted in the feet of the image from Daniel’s dream. It is the final kingdom, unlike any other, that comes against the “holy people” during the time of the end. Will God’s “clay” turn back to the Potter seeking refinement, and leave this oppressive power ruling over them? Well, how often in the past has the majority of the nation of Israel listened to God and been forgiven for their transgressions? Always, only a remnant was restored. Dan 2:41-43; 2:40; 7:23; Job 10:9; Hos 8:8; Isa 1:16-18,2,9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Dan+2%3A41-43%3B+2%3A40%3B+7%3A23%3B+Job+10%3A9%3B+Hos+8%3A8%3B+Isa+1%3A16-18%2C2%2C9++++&version=CSB
FROM WATCHTOWER’S “ISAIAH’S PROPHESY”: “In these “last days,” Jehovah has bared his holy arm in order to revive the anointed remnant, the “two witnesses” of the book of Revelation. (2 Tim 3:1; Rev 11:3,7-13) Since 1919, these have been brought into a spiritual paradise, the spiritual estate that they now share with millions of their associates, the other sheep. ip-2 chap. 13 pp. 180-193
“These “escaped ones” were restored to their God-given spiritual estate, which he caused to sprout abundantly. THIS SPIRITUAL ESTATE HAS PRESENTED AN INVITING, ATTRACTIVE APPEARANCE, which has drawn millions of other God-fearing people to join the remnant in true worship.” ip-1 chap. 6 pp. 61-72
To believe that the Watchtower holds a refined remnant of spiritual “Israel” to come out of the “world”, is true folly. Its version of Revelation’s “two witnesses” were those who “took the lead” and were physically imprisoned by the U.S. government after preaching in “sackcloth”. Why were they imprisoned? Among other charges, it was for Rutherford’s publication “The Finished Mystery”, which contained his blatant accusations against the political and religious entities and their stand concerning the war at hand. He and his cohorts were charged with sedition. When this charge was made, Rutherford scrambled not only to stop further printing of the book, but required the Bible Students to rip out 7 pages of it; all to AVOID being sentenced to jail. The Society even encouraged the Bible Students to buy war bonds and participate in a day of prayer for victory, all to appease the government. Although the Watchtower has revealed some truth regarding these events, it then glorifies and embellishes it, as you see written in “Isaiah’s Prophesy” by effectively hiding the true account from its members.
Did this book reveal biblical truth and Revelation from Christ? Did it explain the need for God’s Temple anointed priesthood to be refined and cleansed of all sin and idolatry, by speaking in the manner of Moses and Elijah; or, was it preaching lies? (1 Pet 2:5,9;1 Cor 3:16,17; Dan 12:10; Mal 3:1,2; 1 Pet 1:7; Matt 17:1,2; Rev 11:1-3) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Pet+2%3A5%2C9%3B1+Cor+3%3A16%2C17%3B+Dan+12%3A10%3B+Mal+3%3A1%2C2%3B+1+Pet+1%3A7%3B+Matt+17%3A1%2C2%3B+Rev+11%3A1-3&version=CSB
Watchtower’s own “Revelation” book gives a conflicting report on “The Finished Mystery” exposed by a leaflet covering various aspects of the book. This leaflet was created by JWs, not by the website where it was found. After quoting two contrasting remarks from the Revelation Book, it states:
“Therefore, according to ‘Revelation – It’s Grand Climax at Hand!’, even though ‘The Finished Mystery’ ‘proved to be UNSATISFACTORY AS AN EXPLANATION OF REVELATION’, its distribution was SOMEHOW INSTRUMENTAL in fulfilling the bible prophesy in Revelation 11 concerning the ‘Two Witnesses’ and the manner which they ‘struck the earth with every sort of plague’.” (caps mine) http://jwsurvey.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/finished-mystery-leaflet-letter.pdf
In truth, “The Finished Mystery” struck the “earth” – God’s chosen ones – with every sort of lie imaginable and is well documented in the leaflet.
Revelation’s authentic “two witnesses” preach in “sackcloth” over the detestable things committed by God’s anointed Temple priesthood; yet, “The Finished Mystery” and all Wt. literature concerning the message of the “two witnesses”, deflects attention away from God’s chosen people, to those outside of His Covenant by targeting Christendom and the world’s governments.
These “two witnesses” are not symbolically “killed” for their brief jail time and then later released to further spout off more lies and more false prophesy; but are rejected for exposing the real identity of the Beast/”man of lawlessness” and the false prophet/Harlot directing it. They have spent years in captivity among their own people, drinking in Wormwood’s corruptive waters before waking up to Truth. It is then they are “killed” when speaking TRUTH revealed by Christ; disfellowshipped and marked as spiritually “dead”. Luke 21:24; Rev 13:7,10; Micah 4:10; John 16:2; Rev 8:11;13:15; 12:11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+21%3A24%3B+Rev+13%3A7%2C10%3B+Micah+4%3A10%3B+John+16%3A2%3B+Rev+8%3A11%3B13%3A15%3B+12%3A11&version=CSB
Through Satan’s full use of his earthly resources, he has successfully spun a “spiritual estate” as attractive and inviting; yet, this spiritually immoral, sultry deception that JWs slave to maintain, effectively afflicts and trample God’s chosen people. It is an oppression symbolically perceived through the physical evidence of the combined iron and clay powers ruling over them. Matt 24:15; Dan 8:11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15%3B+Dan+8%3A11+&version=CSB
When Pilate presented both the robber Barabbas and Jesus before the Jewish leaders and the people, he asked, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they answered. Matt 27:21
Barabbas, (meaning “son of a father”), a robber and killer, was arrested for sedition – “insurrection”, by the Gentile Roman government. Mark 15:7; Luke 23:18,19 Although guilty for his crimes, he was also released by that same power at the demands of the Jewish spiritual leaders. Rutherford was also released, having his own confidantes fighting for him. He was not pardoned or exonerated because his innocence was established, as the Watchtower would have you believe. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+15%3A7%3B+Luke+23%3A18%2C19+++&version=CSB
(see: http://www.freeminds.org/history/exonerated.htm)
However, at the vicious demands of the Pharisees and his own people, Jesus was put to death by the Gentile nation for exposing the Pharisees as hypocritical liars and spiritual adulterers; and for laying “heavy loads” on the people they ruled over. Matt 20:17-19; John 8:44,45; Matt 23:4 He preached “repent for the Kingdom of heaven has come near”. Matt 3:2 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+20%3A17-19%3B+John+8%3A44%2C45%3B+Matt+23%3A4%3B+Matt+3%3A2&version=CSB
Likewise, on the authority of the Harlot/GB, the “two witnesses” are handed over to the “Gentile”/elder body and judged as apostates worthy of “death”. They also, expose the leaders of their people for spiritual blasphemy, preaching the same message as Jesus did to God’s wayward nation, to “repent for the Kingdom of heaven has come near”. Matt 10:17,18,21,22; John 16:2; Rev 13:1,5-7,11,12,14,15; Matt 10:16,19,20,24; Rev 11:3,4;11:7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+10%3A17%2C18%2C21%2C22%3B+John+16%3A2%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C5-7%2C11%2C12%2C14%2C15%3B++Matt+10%3A16%2C19%2C20%2C24%3B+Rev+11%3A3%2C4%3B11%3A7&version=CSB
So, what about Rutherford and Watchtower’s string of leadership? Is it fair to say they are "robbers" and "killers" - sons of the Father of the lie? If anointed ones preach lies and not truth in Christ, do they not rob one of teachings leading to eternal life? Matt 23:13-15; 15:14; Rom 9:1; Ps 52:1-4; Matt 7:15-20 When they spiritually “kill” their brothers for speaking truth, does this not make them spiritually blood guilty? Matt 24:48-51; 27:25; 23:34; John 16:2,3; Rev 16:2,5,6,7; 18:24 The organizational arrangement was “born” during Rutherford’s reign. This arrangement allowed for the development of the power of iron to eventually overcome the Temple of God, at the authority of the Harlot/GB. Rev 11:1; Matt 24:15; Dan 11:31,32,36; 2 Thess 2:4; Rev 9:1,3,10,11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+23%3A13-15%3B+15%3A14%3B+Rom+9%3A1%3B+Ps+52%3A1-4%3B+Matt+7%3A15-20%3B++Matt+24%3A48-51%3B+27%3A25%3B+23%3A34%3B+John+16%3A2%2C3%3B+Rev+16%3A2%2C5%2C6%2C7%3B+18%3A24%3B+Rev+11%3A1%3B+Matt+24%3A15%3B+Dan+11%3A31%2C32%2C36%3B+2+Thess+2%3A4%3B+Rev+9%3A1%2C3%2C10%2C11&version=CSB
JWs, how long will you keep listening to Watchtower’s persistent attempt to cover over its lies with more lies? Matt 24:15-21; Luke 17:26-30 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15-21%3B+Luke+17%3A26-30&version=CSB
"You are a king, then!" said Pilate. Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the TRUTH. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me." John 18:37
Testifying to the TRUTH is the purpose Jesus sends his “two witnesses” to the Temple priesthood and “clay” of the earth. Their warning call shouts out and reveals the looming iron/clay power threatening the salvation of God’s chosen people, and all, who reside in the organization. Ezek 33:6,8; Rev 9:17-20; 13:8; 2 Thess 2:9-10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezek+33%3A6%2C8%3B+Rev+9%3A17-20%3B+13%3A8%3B+2+Thess+2%3A9-10&version=CSB
This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: “Go down at once to the potter’s house; there I will reveal my words to you.” So I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was, working away at the wheel. But the jar that he was making from the clay became flawed in the potter’s hand, so he made it into another jar, as it seemed right for him to do.
The word of the Lord came to me: “House of Israel, can I not treat you as this potter treats his clay?”—this is the Lord’s declaration. “Just like clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, house of Israel. At one moment I might announce concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will uproot, tear down, and destroy it. However, if that nation about which I have made the announcement turns from its evil, I will relent concerning the disaster I had planned to do to it. At another time I might announce concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will build and plant it. However, if it does what is evil in my sight by not listening to me, I will relent concerning the good I had said I would do to it. So now, say to the men of Judah and to the residents of Jerusalem, ‘This is what the Lord says: Look, I am about to bring harm to you and make plans against you. Turn now, each from your evil way, and correct your ways and your deeds.’
But they will say, ‘It’s hopeless. We will continue to follow our plans, and each of us will continue to act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart.’” Jer 18:1-12
The Watchtower teaches that God's people are like "clay in the Potter's hands", then turns the attention of JWs to Satan's world for fulfillment of the feet of the image in Daniel's dream. Yet, the "disgusting thing standing in the holy place" of Matt 24:15 and Dan 9:27 is spoken as the coalition of power in Dan 11:14-16; one of these powers as COMING "FROM YOUR OWN PEOPLE" - spiritual "Israel", and the "clay" of the last power in Daniel's image.
Pearl Doxsey has several articles about the last destructive power over the holy ones.
“Iron and Clay”
“Why Jesus Came to Earth/Last World Power Over the Chosen ones/”Iron” and “Clay”
The meaning of ““World/earth/home”
4womaninthewilderness
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35 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:
his is a weak claim, yet, it has never stopped you from accepting outlandish Christian conspiracy regarding a Bible Student pastor from a person who was never among the faith to begin with and or has been those who are the opponents of the faith that has inform him/her of, of which you so boldly posted, yet somehow he is the expert when his assumptions and claims bear no fruit and or has merit to truth, for isn't that something, no? I do not think so.
Sorry, I have no idea what you are talking about. And you obviously have no idea what I’m talking about.
My whole comment concerned disfellowshipping individuals who had not sinned. (You do know the pedophile victims have been threatened with disfellowshipping if they went to the authorities, don’t you? This is man-made doctrine and has actually been carried out) Yet, Wt’s version of “sin” and the resulting shunning from it, makes no distinction. One could be a thief, or take up smoking. In any case they are treated the same; as spiritually “dead”.
If you are aware of Watchtower teachings then you know of their history of failed doctrine. If it has failed it is man-made doctrine.
We are on a different wave-length. My focus is on JWs in the Watchtower and how their spiritual life is in jeopardy. That, I will continue to pursue.
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31 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:
I have done my research on the group already and I do know them very well in terms of teaching and practices
I suppose you feel you are the expert of every religion out there, but until you are a member; dedicated to each aspect of the Watchtower, attend all meetings year after year, preach weekly door to door, you have no leg to stand on.
32 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:So the question still stands, how is their excommunication man-made?
I never said it was man-made, did I. I said one does not have to sin to be disfellowshipped from the Watchtower.
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50 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:
Can you provide give ample proof to this comment you made? : You don’t realize that transgressing’s man’s doctrine marks them as spiritually “dead”.
"Cutting off from the Christian congregation does not involve immediate death, so family ties continue. Thus, a man who is disfellowshipped or who disassociates himself may still live at home with his Christian wife and faithful children The situation is different if the disfellowshipped or disassociated one is a relative living outside the immediate family circle and home. It might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum, in line with the divine principle: "Quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person [or guilty of another gross sin], . . . not even eating with such a man."-1 Corinthians 5:11. Understandably, this may be difficult because of emotions and family ties, such as grandparents' love for their grandchildren. Yet, this is a test of loyalty to God, as stated by the sister quoted on page 26." Watchtower 1988 Apr 15 p.27
"Jesus encouraged his followers to love their enemies, but God's Word also says to "hate what is bad." When a person persists in a way of badness after knowing what is right, when the bad becomes so ingrained that it is an inseparable part of his make-up, then in order to hate what is bad a Christian must hate the person with whom the badness is inseparably linked." Watchtower 1961 Jul 15 p.420
52 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:On the contrary, you just shot yourself in the foot, Witness, but it wouldn't faze me for how you responded before regarding those who adhere to the Great Commission, and now you claim the church is part of Babylon, for such a claim you do realize the gravity of information and source that is against you, do you not?
What did I say? I said, ”Do you even know that the organization teaches all churches - ALL - aside from the organization are part of Babylon the Great? That includes your beliefs and whatever church you go to.”
"Modern-day religions have perpetuated many of ancient Babylon’s doctrines. Hence, the world empire of false religion is well named Babylon the Great. (Revelation 17:5) That international religious conglomerate has already suffered a fall similar to that of ancient Babylon in 539 B.C.E. (Revelation 14:8; 18:2) In 1919 the remnant of Christ’s brothers came out of spiritual captivity and shook off the religious influence of Christendom, a dominant part of Babylon the Great. Since then Christendom has lost considerable influence in many lands where it was formerly strong." Ip-2 chapter 8 pp 105-119
The Watchtower is taught as the one, true, religion. There is no other. It is taught that all those outside of the Watchtower are not protected by God’s spirit. They don’t consider other religions as part of the “Body of Christ”, as you do. This is why a person who rejects the organization is considered an apostate. If I was to reject the Watchtower and join your church, I would be considered an apostate and disfellowshipped, because I am rejecting "Jehovah's organization".
56 minutes ago, Space Merchant said:You do not have proof nor had shown any and or lack that the excommunication in the JW church is man-made,
Under disfellowshipping acts: Deliberately spreading teachings contrary to Bible truth as taught by Jehovah’s Witnesses: “Shepherd the Flock of God”
This is most definitely regarding man contrived doctrine. All “old light” and “new light” is man-made doctrine.
Sir. Unless you have been a JW for a period of time, you don’t understand what the Watchtower truly teaches or practices. You also don’t understand that within it, are true, authentic anointed ones, and the only place you will find them. This is something that most all JWs will tell you.
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1 hour ago, Space Merchant said:
And you are incorrect. It is known for since the church foundation was made that excommunication can be from sin, and or from a verbal and or physical action, example, going into a church to speak of another doctrine and or insult God and or Jesus, you will promptly be kicked out. This goes for spread of interfaith doctrine inside a church.
I am not speaking of any church. I am speaking about the Watchtower organization that disfellowships one for rejecting man-made doctrine, rejecting it as salvation, and for one’s testimony to Christ. Rev 12:11
You may know a lot about the organization but you don’t know enough to realize this is fact, because you haven’t been a JW. As John Butler said, you don’t realize the fear factor those in power put upon the sheep. You don’t realize that transgressing’s man’s doctrine marks them as spiritually “dead”.
It is not a sin to reject lies.
Christ is our only judge.
You are the one incorrect. Jesus is not responsible for putting into motion, false doctrine. Do you even know that the organization teaches all churches - ALL - aside from the organization are part of Babylon the Great? That includes your beliefs and whatever church you go to.
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On 4/2/2018 at 11:51 PM, Space Merchant said:
Perhaps because excommunication (expelling) is indeed a real and biblical thing and since it is in scripture, it is to be followed because if we accept what is written in the bible, we accept the practice of excommunication.
One does not have to sin to be disfellowshipped/”excommunicated” from the Watchtower. One only needs to proclaim Christ as the only Way, Truth, and Life - and not an organization - and they can easily be disfellowshipped for rejecting false doctrine. John 16:2,3; Matt 5:10,11; Luke 21:12,13; Rev 13:1,11,14-17
There is nothing they need to “repent” to the elder body for, except to God for believing an organization is one’s fortress when only God can be our Rock, for choosing lies over the one source of Truth, Jesus Christ; and for taking so long to cast aside idolatry. Isa chapter 31
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What does the "Aid to Bible Understanding" say about the name, "Jehovah"; which isn't found in the "Insight" volumes?
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On 3/26/2018 at 5:48 PM, Bible Speaks said:
No worries it is just as the Master planned.
Was it in God’s plan for His anointed servants to teach this?
"The Bible speaks of the time in which we are living as the "last days" or the "time of the end." (2 Timothy 3: 1; Daniel 11: 40) The facts show that this is a limited period that has a definite beginning and a definite end. It began in 1914 when Jesus Christ was enthroned as king in the heavens. It will end when God destroys this present wicked system of things. … How soon will that be? God's own Son, Jesus Christ, gives the answer. After drawing attention to the many things that mark the period from 1914 onward as the "time of the end," Jesus said: "This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur." (Matthew 24:34) Which generation did he mean? Jesus had just referred to persons who would "see all these things." "These things" are the events that have taken place since 1914 and those yet to occur down to the end of this wicked system. (Matthew 24:33) Persons born even as much as fifty years ago could not see "all these things." They came on the scene after the foretold events were already under way. But there are people still living who were alive in 1914 and saw what was happening then and who were old enough that they still remember those events. This generation is getting up in years now. A great number of them have already passed away in death. Yet Jesus very pointedly said: 'This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.' Some of them will still be alive to see the end of this wicked system. This means that only a short time is left before the end comes!" (Truth That Leads To Eternal Life, p. 94, 1968)
And from a book entitled “Truth That Leads to Eternal Life”?
When you first taught this in your ministry, were you blessed by teaching these words, by calling it the truth? How can that be, when both God and Jesus are Truth, and this quote is a lie? John 8:26; John 17:17; 14:6
“You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.” Deut 4:2
“Whatever I command you, you shall be careful to do; you shall not add to nor take away from it.” Deut 12:32
“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book” Rev 22:18
I see two, at the least, of the commandments of Exod. 20, broken by this teaching.
“You shall not steal”
“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” Exod 20:15,16
As well as, “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; 5 you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.” Exod 20:4-6
Serving the needs of the “carved image” of the organization is not in God’s plan. Rev 13:1,4-6 Stealing the truth in Christ from one’s neighbor is not in God’s plan. 2 Thess 2:9-12
“fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil." Eccl 12:9-14
Now that there are less magazines to place, has the organization reduced the load put upon JWs to preach? Or, do they admonish it even more so?
“But the king of Egypt said, ‘Moses and Aaron, why are you taking the people away from their labor? Get back to your work!’ Then Pharaoh said, ‘Look, the people of the land are now numerous, and you are stopping them from working.’
That same day Pharaoh gave this order to the slave drivers and overseers in charge of the people: ‘You are no longer to supply the people with straw for making bricks; let them go and gather their own straw. But require them to make the same number of bricks as before; don’t reduce the quota. They are lazy; that is why they are crying out, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to our God.’ Make the work harder for the people so that they keep working and pay no attention to lies.’” Exod 5:4-9
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If these books are full of precious wisdom, why are many being discontinued, even some required to be destroyed? Obviously, the Watchtower doesn't share the same sentimental value for them that the members do.
"In addition to the Teacher being a wise man, he constantly taught the people knowledge; he weighed, explored, and arranged many proverbs. The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and write words of truth accurately. The sayings of the wise are like goads, and those from masters of collections are like firmly embedded nails. The sayings are given by one Shepherd.
But beyond these, my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body. When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is: fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil." Eccl 12:9-14
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8 hours ago, The Librarian said:
@Witness I merged your link with @Jack Ryan's earlier post from yesterday.
Thank you! Sorry for any inconvenience!
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3 hours ago, TrueTomHarley said:
I don't like to make it personal.
When the urge hits you to make it personal, you write in the third person. I guess that makes it less personal.Â
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Each year in mid-summer the two little bergs in my area swell to the bursting point for a period of two short two days. Ordinarily, the total count of inhabitants within a 15-mile range is less than 500 people. But during what is called, the “Death Ride”, the entire county becomes a swarming nest of thousands of people and bicycles, along the major roads that traverse up the mountain passes in the area. Many of its contestants spend every spare moment preparing for this race, and once the hint of warmth arrives in the spring, local bicyclers begin appearing along the highways in preparation for the big day.
For those who participate in the race, they live fully for the moment they succeed in reaching their goal of traversing their choice of 1, 2, or up to 5 mountain passes, and up to 129 miles. Everyone is a winner, according to the goal they individual set for themselves. Even though it is considered a “killer”, the Death Ride is enjoyed for its momentary exhilarating challenge and pristine mountain setting. After this grueling bike race finishes, life returns to normal for local residents.
Last summer, the JWs convention was entitled “Don’t Give Up” and showed a runner on the invitation to attend, which was distributed worldwide. This year’s circuit assembly topics are “Don’t Give Up Doing What is Fine” and “Don’t Give up in Fulfilling the Law of Christ”. What is the underlying drive behind these titles? Well, a few days ago a JW revealed the true “race” that Watchtower members are participating in. Within his statement, he included “….brothers and sister that serve the org.….” JWs, is the endurance of your faith measured by the selective avenues of the “race” you participate in when serving the organization; such as qualifying as a pioneer, or making all the meetings, or striving to be an elder, or serving at Bethel? Do you believe reaching out to meet such goals is a ‘fine thing’, and your preaching work fulfills the law of Christ? Ironically, this is exactly what your dedication at baptism expects of you.
A new Watchtower magazine (3/2018) addresses baptism, just in time for this year’s upcoming summer convention. It focuses on potential candidates but especially targets children; preparing them for the ritualistic baptism into the organization. You must be aware, JWs, of Watchtower’s spurious and hypocritical teachings regarding this critical step, which they promulgate as entering the race leading to eternal life.
Watchtower quote: “Yes, it seems that hundreds of his followers were present when Jesus gave the commission to make disciples. Jesus thus revealed that baptism would be a requirement for those who accept the yoke of Christian discipleship. (Matt. 11:29, 30) Anyone who wished to serve God ACCEPTABLY would have to acknowledge and accept Jesus’ role in the outworking of Jehovah’s purpose. After doing so, that person could get baptized. THIS WOULD BE THE ONLY WATER BAPTISM HAVING GOD’S APPROVAL."
Let that sink in a moment. One’s dedication to God must not be enhanced in any form, by additional words of men, or it loses God’s approval by transgressing His purpose, and the law of Christ.
As the magazine states: “After all, it is each individual’s dedication, baptism, and FAITHFUL SERVICE TO GOD that will bring him in line for being MARKED FOR SALVATION during the coming great tribulation.” —Matt. 24:13. Par 16
At one time many years ago, the organization followed scriptural direction when baptizing individuals, but since 1985 the questions had been altered to include dedicating oneself to the organization. Yes, deceitful men have added a footnote to your acknowledgments of Watchtower’s pagan ritual. Under the article’s topic, “Baptism, Requirement for Christians” it addresses the first question only, asked of each candidate:
“On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?”
It then quotes Matt 16:24 “If anyone wants to come after me, let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake and keep following me”.
What does it mean to pick up our “torture stake” and follow Christ?
Pearl Doxsey’s article entitled “Dedication – Happiness” states:
“Imagine that you hear, or read on the news,
that a race is approaching which guarantees the winner a prize of unlimited wealth, health, a removal of all life's problems, and happiness. (2Cor.1:22; 5:5; Eph.1:14; Heb.6:10; John3:33; 10:10 B; 1Cor.2:9; Rev.21:4,5).
You also learn that your father greatly desires for you to have this prize, due to his love for you (John3:16; Luke11:13; John16:27; 1John4:8; Isa.49:15). He promises to contribute his own resources to support you, guaranteeing success (should you accept the challenge) (Phil.4:6,13; 1Cor.1:8,9; 10:13; 2Pet.2:9; 2Chron.16:9 A; Rom.8:37; Heb.4:16).
But then the race is described to you. It is grueling, long, and perilous (Acts14:22; Luke13:24; 2Tim.3:12; 2Cor.4:9; 6:4; 1Thess.3:3; Heb.10:32,33; Rev.1:9).
It will demand tremendous dedication, self-control, endurance, and sacrifice (1Cor.9:25; 2Tim.2:5; 1Pet.1:13; 4:7; 1Thess.5:6,8; Titus 2:12).
Does the race lead to short-term happiness? Certainly not!
But then what if you heard that winning is possible and that everyone who crosses the finish line, wins? (2Tim.1:12; 4:7,8; James1:12; Matt.24:13)
For those chosen by God (Isa.66:21; 1Pet.2:9), this race also includes accepting an assignment of work (2Tim.4:5; James2:17,20; 1Cor.3:8,13,14; Acts.10:42; Matt.16:27; 9:37,38; 25:19; 1Pet.2:5; Mark9:35; Luke12:35,43; Rom.12:6,7,8). That work must be done during the race. In addition, all runners must deal with an opposer and his cohorts, who constantly do all they can to make the road to the finish, impossible (Rev.2:10; Eph.6:12; 1Pet.5:8,9; Luke18:26,27). (4womaninthewilderness)When an individual joins the organization, the “race” one enters is not based on a dedication to Christ or the Father, but on serving an organization, which was made clear by the JW’s comment above. However, Watchtower calls it, serving God; and they do it thusly:
“When presenting themselves for baptism, such new disciples confirm that they have disowned themselves and are determined to serve God with all their strength, means, and abilities. (Rom. 12:1) FOR THESE REASONS, BAPTISM CANDIDATES ARE ASKED TO CONFIRM THAT THEY HAVE DEDICATED THEMSELVES TO JEHOVAH TO DO HIS WILL.”
How is this asked of JWs? The second question not mentioned in the article to the unknowing candidates is:
“Do you understand that your dedication and baptism IDENTIFY you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with GOD’S SPIRIT-DIRECTED ORGANIZATION? Having answered yes to these questions, candidates are in a right heart condition to undergo Christian baptism."
Simply, this type of water baptism does not have God’s approval, but God’s condemnation. I hope you can perceive this, JWs. Watchtower’s allegations go beyond Christ’s words, expecting your devotion to another Master. Matt 6:24; Deut 4:2; 12:32; Rev 22:18 Please, notice how you are “marked”, not for survival but for slavery to men and their self-driven desires for unrighteous gains. Jer 17:10-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+6%3A24%3B+Deut+4%3A2%3B+12%3A32%3B+Rev+22%3A18%3B+Jer+17%3A10-13+++&version=NIV
From the 1950 Watchtower publication, “This Means Everlasting Life”: “When a justified believer is baptized into the “body of Christ” and so becomes a member of the Theocratic organization, he comes under Christ Jesus the Head and so comes under certain responsibilities and cannot act independently of the one whom God as made Head of the organization to direct it. HE MUST SUBMIT HIMSELF TO ORGANIZATION INSTRUCTIONS…” p. 126
I am appalled at these words I have come across. They admit to the early beginnings of the “trampling” of the Temple of God – the anointed priesthood and Body of Christ. Matt 24:15;Dan 9:27;11:31; 2 Thess 2:3,4; Rev 11:1-3 Watchtower’s “theocratic organization” empowers a false priesthood to demand obedience to itself, as a “god”. It is the counterfeit to the Body of Christ – the Body of Satan. 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15%3BDan+9%3A27%3B11%3A31%3B+2+Thess+2%3A3%2C4%3B+Rev+11%3A1-3%3B+1+Pet+2%3A5%2C9%3B+1+Cor+3%3A16%2C17%3B+Eph+2%3A20-22++&version=NIV
Pearl Doxsey – “The GB has laid a new foundation for themselves...
They have made themselves the cornerstone (Phil.2:6; 1Cor.3:11), being benefactor to a NON-anointed Organization of counterfeit priests (Rev.13:14,15; 19:20)...
creating a foreign temple to a "foreign god" (Dan.11:37,38,39; Rev.9:11; 13:8,15; Eze.8:5,6,7,8,9,10).
They have erected a counterfeit Mt. Zion (Rev.8:8; Zech.4:7,9), (Isa.2:2,3)
and a decoy "Kingdom" while Satan yet rules.”(From “Discerning the Body-A God of Order”) 4womaninthewilderness
Please, I ask you to consider, JWs; that you, and the authentic, anointed Body of Christ, have picked up the wrong torture stake. Not until it is realized what “mark” you bear, does the real torture stake then present itself. Your “opposer and cohorts” will come into focus, if you choose to enter the authentic race leading to life. Jer 17:1; Rev 13:1,3,4,10-17; Exod 20:1-7; Luke 4:8
The race JWs presently run, their comparative “torture stake” in a “spiritual paradise”, is soon to come to an abrupt, and tumultuous end. 1 Thess 5:3; Rev 6:12-17; 8:8; Zech 4:7; Job 9:5,6; 14:18-22
(Mark of Slavery 4womaninthewilderness)
I wrote down these thoughts just this morning when reading James chapter 1:
When we wake up to Wt.’s deceptions, mulling over in our minds how to deal with them; we have two choices; to either step onto the course leading to life by slaving only for God, or settle with our conscience and continue running Wt’s categorized routes, explicitly showing faith in the organization as salvation. Deut 6:6,8; 11:18; Exod 13:9 When this choice is apparent, it is then that the Beast/org.’s threatening stance looming over us, is perceived. Can we bear being called a “loser” by the Beast and everyone we love if we draw out of the race? Matt 5:11; Rev 11:7;13:15 Who really is it, that loses out on eternal life?
Tonight, I find this comment regarding a JW “sighing and crying over the detestable things” in the organization (Ezek 9:3,4):
“Whoever the bozo is that wants to quit...go ahead and do it loser. You are "already gone"
“A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those WHO WORSHIP THE BEAST (organization) AND ITS IMAGE, (spirit-directed “Jehovah’s organization) OR FOR ANYONE WHO RECEIVES THE MARK OF ITS NAME.”
This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who KEEP HIS COMMANDS AND REMAIN FAITHFUL TO JESUS.” Rev 14:9-12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12
“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, ‘In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.’
38 And, ‘But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.’ 39 But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.” Heb 10:36-39
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“Babylon” is an influential climate that holds power over one’s heart. 1 Cor 4:5 There is not one physical location on the earth where it isn’t found. We can’t move from one organization to another, one religion to another and say, we’ve stepped out of “Babylon”. Just as the New Covenant is represented by a “woman”/promise, Babylon is also represented by a “woman”. Rev 17:4,5 (Gal 4:26-28) Her “daughters” are Harlots, manifested in individuals; spiritually immoral false “prophets” who are under the woman covenant of death. In the Watchtower, they are “fallen stars”/anointed Rev 8:10,11 (Matt 5:14,15; Phil 2:15; Dan 12:3) who “poison” with false teachings.
Babylon is the power of the air, demonic exhalations that we can “breathe” in; resulting not in the promise of life, but death. WT has taught this. So…why would they say entering the organization is leaving Babylon, since it exhibits the same injustices as any other world entity. It is obvious here that its members continually compare it as, in a sense, the “lesser of the two evils”.
Every wayward teaching of the Wt. is sourced in this spirit. James 3:15-18 It must be admitted that discarded teachings do not have their beginnings in the “light of the world” – Jesus Christ, since there is no sharing of light with darkness. 2 Cor 6:14-18
“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Eph 2:1-5
We are to recognize this power in individuals and walk away. 2 Cor 11:4
“Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame.”
God will not change the direction of the Watchtower ’s "kingdom”; since it is fully, part of the world. John 18:36 It fights its battles as the world does, relying on the governments to turn matters in its favor, something it has always practiced. God changes individuals who turned to His Son; who in this dark world, is the only source of light. The Father will not restructure or renew an entity that mimics, in every way – the world.
There are two conflicting battles of authority – Satan’s, and Christ’s, who has conquered death.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matt 28:18
“The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.”
8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” Luke 4:5-8
John B. mentioned….”brothers and sisters that serve the org.” If one views serving the organization as serving God, is it not the same as serving an idol? Acts 17:25 The end time deception coming against the anointed ones challenges the words of Christ in Luke, by convincing millions to serve the “cravings of our flesh”, its “desires and thoughts” as Eph 2:1-5 speaks of. To mask the deception, a “preaching work” is established, but this preaching is done in error. Therefore, Michael stands up for his anointed “kings of the earth” who are deceived by the power of the air. Rev 13:1,4
Michael means, “Who is Like God”? Dan 12:1; Rev 12:7-9 The Beast from “sea” of mankind (Rev 13:1) that comes against and surrounds the holy ones/anointed, boasts there is nothing like it – “Who is like the Beast?” This is the Watchtower’s teachings; there is nothing to come against “Jehovah’s organization.” Rev 13:6,7 Thus, it challenges the authority of God – exactly what Satan has planned. Watchtower’s spurious allegations go beyond Christ’s words, expecting devotion to another Master. Matt 6:24; Deut 4:2; 12:32; Rev 22:18
The GB will be ousted by the organization. “Her” skirts will be lifted to expose her shame. Jer 13:20-23 This doesn’t mean a time of everlasting renewal, since the organization will function only a short time. Rev 17:12-18 A new composite leadership of both anointed and spiritual “Gentile” elders will rule “for one hour”. When Christ said, “come out of her, my people, this includes both anointed and all…to LEAVE. We leave “confusion”, deception, false teachings…behind. The only “safe haven” for our hearts is found with God and Christ. Rev 18:4-8
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth (not a partial truth, but in Christ, who is Truth) buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, (protecting the heart) and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, (not found through serving an organization) with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation (not from an organization) and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Eph 6:10-17
Using those scriptures during a judicial meeting is enough to get one disfellowshipped. Rev 13:11-14-17
John, you are proof that it is quite possible to serve the Father and His Son without men stipulating your each and every move. I once talked with a JW who had been disfellowshipped, and he admitted that his relationship with the Father became closer since at that point he relied fully on Him. Under pressure, he returned to the org and lost what he had gained. Our only Mediator is Jesus Christ, not 8 men who believe they hold power over millions of souls. That type of power is sourced in another spirit other than Holy Spirit.
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John, I believe it is this Saturday at 7:00. I did notice that there is the option of "live news" if one signs in. That may allow you to watch it Saturday in Canada's time zone. Avery Haines did an earlier commentary on JWs: Â
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"This week a troubling story on W5: Avery Haines investigates an alleged sex abuse cover-up within the Jehovah's Witnesses. From across Canada, to the United States, England and Australia she reveals how the religious sect's doctrine protects accused sex offenders and pedophiles and makes it virtually impossible for complaints to be reported to police. Watch NO WITNESSES Saturday at 7 pm on CTV."
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2 hours ago, TrueTomHarley said:
If you work to oppose the one organization that has a child sexual abuse prevention rate ten times that of the overall population, how are you not acting as a friend of child abuse?
The organization is not the Temple of God. The anointed priesthood is - you know, those who have no voice? They are the Temple of God. 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; 2 Cor 6:16; Eph 2:20-22
I hope you can see that comparing the organization to the early temple by using Luke 2:41-50, just doesn't work. Besides, child abuse has been reported to have occurred in kingdom halls.
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Who are Yhwh's Witnesses? A familiar scripture tells us. These are the very same verses which "Jehovah's Witnesses" use to justify taking that label. Please re-examine those verses now, in the hope that as was the case with me, your misconception can be guided into accurate knowledge by means of the Bible.
Isa.43:10,11,12,21:
10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord,
“and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.
11 I, even I, am the Lord,
and apart from me there is no savior.
12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—
I, and not some foreign god among you.
You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God.
21 the people I formed for myself
that they may proclaim my praise.
22 “Yet you have not called on me, Jacob,
you have not wearied yourselves for me, Israel.
28 So I disgraced the dignitaries of your temple;
I consigned Jacob to destruction
and Israel to scorn."
I have emphasized some of the points Yhwh's words make, because of their relevance to the misconception mentioned earlier.
The Witnesses referred to in this scripture, received that position, not from men, but from God.
Isa.43:10 clearly states, that Yhwh's genuine witnesses, are those "chosen" by Him (Rom.9:16,18,23-24,21; 2Chron.16:9;Eph.1:14; 2Cor.5:5). These can not be those chosen and designated by mere men (Rom.2:29; Col.2:11; 2Cor.10:18; 4:7;John15:16,19). This misconception occurred based upon the assumption that Yhwh had already judged and appointed the "faithful and discreet slave" over all his belongings (in 1919 -though this doctrine was recently abolished); and that God installed not only those 144,000 anointed slaves over Christ's total inheritance (Matt.28:18; Rev.1:18; 1Cor.15:24; Dan.2:44;7:27) (2Thess.2:1,2,3,4), but also all in association with them, as His "witnesses".
This is not at all what these verses in Isa.43 say, nor what any of the end-time prophecies, indicate.
The symbolic last two prophets are called Yhwh's "witnesses" (Rev.11:3).
According to prophecy, every one of them are "killed" (Rev.20:4; 6:11).
The Bible makes clear who God's "chosen" ones are [Col.3:12; Luke1:78 (2Pet.1:19); Luke18:7; 1Pet.2:9,10; Deut.7:6).
It also makes clear what their assignment is (Isa.43:21; 1Pet.2:9). The assignment of the Priesthood is not to be rendered in the "Temple" by any other (Num.18:7; 2Chron.23:6; Heb.5:4; Eze.44:16). Only those chosen to be priests may render "acceptable service" (1Pet.2:5; Rev.5:9,10; Rom.15:16; Heb.13:15; Rev.1:6) in the Temple arrangement (1Cor.3:16; 1Pet.2:5;Eph.2:20,21,22).
Any other arrangement is considered an abomination by God (Eze.44:6,7,8,9; 9:4; Joel3:17), a "disgusting thing standing in the holy place" (Matt.24:15), "standing where it ought not" to be (Mark13:14)...."trampling" the priesthood of "holy ones"2Chron.13:9; Lam.1:10; Rev.11:1,2; 2Thess.2:4; Rev.13:6,7; Dan.8:13; 1Chron.13:9,10; Matt.5:13).
The next point made at Isa.43:10, is that these ones whom God chooses, are given by God Himself....divine knowledge, understanding, and faith in and of the True God (1John2:20,27,28; 2Cor.5:5; 1Thess.4:8). These ones are then said to realize, that besides this True God, there is NO other identity to be served or worshipped (Matt.4:10).
Isa.43:11 adds the trait, that these chosen ones understand, that besides Yhwh and His expressed arrangement, there is no other means nor path of salvation (Eph.1:8,9,10,11,12; Isa.2:3; Rev.7:10).
Isa.43:12, Yhwh emphasized once again, that he himself is the only source of revelation, light, and divine proclamation among these chosen ones (Matt.23:10; Gal.1:11,12; 2Cor.11:3; 1Tim.4:1). God's spirit is the source of knowledge to those chosen by Him (James1:5; Prov.2:5,6; Ec.2:26; 2Cor.1:21,22)....not an organization which falsely claims spirit direction (Ps.118:8;Jer.17:5; 23:21; (1Thess.5:2,3)-- Jer.14:13,14,15; Eze.14:21; Rev.6:8).
God spirit directs and dwells within His Temple priesthood (1Cor.3:16; Eph.2:22; 1Pet.2:5,9); Not with spiritual Gentiles who hijack this position, due to the lying spirit from a false prophet (Rev.13:15,7,8; 11:2;16:13,15; 2Thess.2:4; Matt.24:4,5,11,24,25).
Yhwh also finds it necessary to clarify and repeat, that there is no other object of worship and service among God's witnesses (Matt.4:10; Gal.2:4; 2Cor.11:20,3; Rev.13:10,7; Dan.8:13,12; Isa.63:18; Jer.12:10; Dan.12:6,7; Rev.6:10,11).
At Isa.43:12, God concludes by saying that these personal students of His, must teach what they know (1Pet.2:9; Mal.2:7;Matt.5:14,16; 10:20) ....specifically, that only Yhwh is the God deserving service, fear, and worship (Rev.4:11; 1:6; 14:7;19:1; Matt.22:37; Deut.13:4; Eze.2:3,4,5,6,7; Luke4:8; Matt.4:10), not an organizational "mountain" offering salvation (Rev.6:16; Zech4:7; Mark11:23; Rev.8:8; Rom.1:25; Rev.13:8).
This exclusive devotion indicates that only God is to be personally worshipped, served and glorified. This teaching would characterize God's genuine "witnesses"....but not the climate of God's people in the time of the end (Rev.13:8,7,10,14,15,16,17,18,4; Isa.44:20; Rom.1:25; Rev.13:16; Isa.44:20) (Deut.6:6,8; Rom.1:25; Rev.13:16,8)
Isa.43:21 adds more detail about these genuine witnesses. It highlights the facts that this new creation is being "formed" by God over time, into a group with a purpose (1Cor.3:9; Heb.9:11; Eph.2:21,22,19,20; Rev.21:14,17,22; 14:1). That singular purpose is to "declare" God's "praise" (Isa.43:21; 1Pet.2:9). This would exclude working to accrue praise for any other identity (Rom.2:29; Gal.1:10; Rev.13:8), nor pointing to its worldly power for salvation or divine knowledge. This singular purpose would certainly NOT include procuring praise for oneself (John7:18,16,17; Luke17:10). For God does not share His glory and praise with any other identity. Yhwh's genuine and chosen witnesses, already know this (Isa.42:8).
Do we have any scriptural teachings in the Greek scriptures to indicate who these chosen witnesses are (since Isaiah is written to those in the Covenant that has already ended)? Yes...those chosen to be witnesses of Yhwh...those who continue to fulfill Isa.43:10-28 are identified under the New Covenant Nation (1Pet.2:9,10). The people God forms for himself to declare his praise, based upon the knowledge they have received directly from His spirit; are clearly identified for any who wish to be followers of Christ (John7:17; Matt.7:20).
According to Yhwh..."Yhwh's Witnesses" are the anointed "chosen" ones, as long as they are:
worshiping God alone,
are taught by means of God's spirit and Word exclusively (John4:24; 17:17),
and like Jesus, they must preach and teach others to have an exclusive devotion and worship to God alone.
(Matt.4:10; 22:36,37,38; Exo.34:14; Rev.13:8,4,7,15; Matt.23:37,34,35; Rev.18:24; 19:2; Isa.1:21)
(Numbers35:30; Deut.17:6; 19:15,18,19; Prov.6:16,17,18,19; 12:17; 14:5; 25:18; James4:11; 1Pet.2:1; Rev.13:11; 16:13;13:18)Pearl Doxsey 4womaninthewilderness
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“JehovahÂ’s Witness kids grow up knowing that if they ever mess up, their parents will leave them — and thatÂ’s scary,” Sawyer, now 38, said in a recent interview from her home in Pascagoula, Miss. “The shunning is supposed to make us miss them so much that weÂ’ll come back. Â… It didnÂ’t work.”
Sawyer and many others like her are now denouncing the church's shunning practices in the wake of a recent murder-suicide in Keego Harbor that killed a family of four ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses who were ostracized after leaving the faith. The deaths sparked outrage among scores of ex-JWs nationwide who took to Facebook, online forums, blogs and YouTube, arguing the tragedy highlights a pervasive yet rarely-publicized problem within the church: Shunning is pushing the most vulnerable people over the edge, they say, and tearing families apart.
In the Michigan case, a distraught mother shot and killed her husband, her two grown children and herself in their Keego Harbor home, shocking the small and quiet Oakland County community.
The shooter was Lauren Stuart, a part-time model and personal trainer who struggled with depression and spent much of her time working on her house, her friends say. She and her husband, Daniel Stuart, 47, left the JW faith more than a decade ago over doctrinal and social issues. Among them was their desire to send their kids to college, which many ex-JWs say is frowned upon by the church and viewed as spiritually dangerous.
“University and college campuses are notorious for bad behavior — drug and alcohol abuse, immorality, cheating, hazing, and the list goes on,” a 2005 article in the Watchtower, the church's official publication, stated.
But the Stuarts sent both their kids to college: Steven, 27, excelled in computers, just like his father, who was a data solutions architect for the University of Michigan Medical School. Bethany, 24, thrived in art and graphic design.  After the parents left the faith, the Stuarts were ostracized by the Kingdom Hall — the churches where Jehovah's Witnesses worship — community in Union Lake and their families, friends said.
Lauren Stuart, whose mother died of cancer when she was 12, struggled with mental illness that went untreated; isolation and fears that the end was near, said friends and officials familiar with the case. One friend who requested anonymity said she believes the killing was the result of depression, not religion.
"This is a tragedy that has to do with a disease. Depression is so prevalent, and when it goes untreated this is what happens," the friend said. "She needed medical help."
Longtime family friend Joyce Taylor believes depression, shunning and religion-based doomsday fears all played a role. She said that about six weeks before the killings, Lauren started getting religiously preoccupied and telling her "'It's the end times, I know it is.'"
Weeks later, Taylor saw her friend again. Lauren had a vacant look in her eyes. She was emotionally distressed.
A week later, with her home decorated for Valentine's Day, Lauren Stuart killed her family. She left behind a suicide note.
"She said in the suicide note that she felt that by killing them it was the only way to save them," recalled Taylor, who said police let her read the letter. "She said she's sorry that she has to do this, but it was the only way to save them all."Â
Taylor, a former Jehovah's Witness herself who left the faith in 1986, explained: "Jehovah's Witnesses believe that if you die on this side of Armageddon, you'll be resurrected in paradise."
In Lauren Stuart's case, Taylor believes her friend never deprogrammed after leaving the church — a state she describes as  "physically out, but mentally in." She believes that Lauren's indoctrinated doomsday fears never left her, and that the shunning helped push her over the edge.
Had she not been excommunicated by her tight-knit community that was once her entire support system — left with no one to share her fears with — Lauren Stuart may not have done what she did, Taylor believes.
"People do things when they are desperate," Taylor said. "And that was an extreme, desperate act."
Shunning "can lead to great trauma among people because the Jehovah's Witnesses are a very tight-knit community," said Mathew Schmalz, a religious studies associate professor at the College of Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass.
"If you're separated out, you're really left to your own devices in ways that are very challenging and very painful," Schmalz said. "Once you leave a group that's been your whole life — letting that go is a kind of death."
Police have not yet disclosed details about the death of the Stuart family besides calling it a murder-suicide.
The tragedy has emboldened many once-quiet ex-JWs to speak up. Many say they suffered quietly on their own for years until they discovered an online community full of isolated, ostracized people like themselves — people who had lost someone to suicide or attempted suicide themselves because their families, friends and church community had written them off for making mistakes, for being human.Â
The church calls it being "disfellowshipped." Members can return if they repent, change the behavior and prove themselves worthy of being reinstated. But unless or until that happens, members are encouraged to avoid the sinners, especially those who leave the faith.
Mothers go years, even decades, without talking to their children. Siblings write off siblings. Friends shun friends.
An estimated 70,000 Jehovah’s Witnesses are disfellowshipped every year — roughly 1% of the church’s total population, according to data published by the Watchtower. Their names are published at local Kingdom Halls. Of those, two-thirds never return.
Within a faith representing 8.4 million people worldwide, however, many members believe the religion is pure, good and loving. Those who are speaking against it, current members argue, are disgruntled and angry people who have an ax to grind because they were disfellowshipped. Or, they are lost souls who have misinterpreted the meaning and love behind the faith. Members say they believe the shunning accusations are exaggerated and that the suicides are often more about mental illness than ostracism.
The departed disagree. Â
In the world of ex-JehovahÂ’s Witnesses, they maintain, the shunned are considered dead to their families, just like the suicide victims.Â
These are their stories:
‘A dangerous cult’
It was a difficult conversation to wrap her 8-year-old brain around.
“‘You know your sister was being bad, right?’“ Sawyer recalled her mother telling her after her sister's suicide.
“ ‘And what she did was stupid, right?’ … To take your own life is very wrong,' " the mother continued.
“I didn’t understand what was going on … and I said, ‘Oh. OK,,’ “ recalled Sawyer. “In my 8-year-old brain I was thinking, ‘When I mess up, my mom’s going to hate me.’ "
And so began her painful journey with the JehovahÂ’s Witness faith, the religion she was born into and grew up in in Pascagoula, Miss., where her fears of abandonment took hold at the age of 8.Â
Sawyer believes the shunning drove her sister to suicide. After the church disfellowshipped her for getting engaged to a non-JW, the fiancé left her sister, who was thrown into depression. Her sister tried turning to her mother for consolation, but her mom would read scripture and tell her, "until you start acting right, you’re going to have these bad things happen to you.“
Bad things happened to Sawyer, too. At 30, she sought a divorce from her husband because he was abusive and cheating on her, she said. But the church elders and family pressured her to save her marriage.
“I showed them the holes in my walls,” Sawyer said, referring to the damage her ex-husband did to the home during fights. “They told me to pray more … and sent me back home to him.”
Sawyer took up smoking to handle the stress, which got her disfellowshipped because smoking is not allowed. She also went through with the divorce. She ended up losing her home to foreclosure and turned to her mother for help as she had two children to raise.
ÂHer mother took her in temporarily, but when the church elders found out, they threatened to disfellowship SawyerÂ’s mother — who let the grandkids stay, but not the daughter.Â
Sawyer ended up homeless for six months, living out of her car in a community college parking lot. She landed on her feet with the help of a student loan. She got an apartment, a job as a hospice nurse and her children — now 10 and 18 — back. She found herself, but lost her family along the way.
Her mother doesnÂ’t speak to her; she said she canÂ’t recall the last time they spoke.
Her sister in Alabama hasnÂ’t spoken to her since Sawyer got divorced in 2010.
“She was on my porch, with my parents … My sister looked at me and said, ‘You’re abandoning me just like Donna did’ And left. And that's the last thing she ever said to me."
Sawyer has kept silent about her pain for decades.
“This is a dangerous cult,” she said of her former religion. “ItÂ’s important for people to realize —  this is serious.”Â
Read the rest of the story here:
KORAH'S REBELLION AND THE WATCHTOWER
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Lies, deceit and excuses all in one Watchtower article? Yes. Satan’s fascinating deceptions can be discerned clearly, if we truly yearn to know truth.
Korah, Moses and Aaron were all Levites; they were cousins, whose fathers were brothers.
The Levitical lineage were people designated to serve God in various roles, separated into three divisions according to the three sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath and Merari. Gen 46:11. Moses, Aaron, Miriam and Korah were all grandchildren of Kohath.
To the Kohathites”, stemming from Kohath, God said, “Bring the tribe of Levi and present them to Aaron the priest to assist him. They are to perform duties for him and for the whole community at the tent of meeting by doing the work of the tabernacle. They are to take care of all the furnishings of the tent of meeting, fulfilling the obligations of the Israelites by doing the work of the tabernacle. Give the Levites to Aaron and his sons; they are the Israelites who are to be given wholly to him. Appoint Aaron and his sons to serve as priests; anyone else who approaches the sanctuary is to be put to death.” Num 3:5-10
The Lord also said to Moses, “I have taken the Levites from among the Israelites in place of the first male offspring of every Israelite woman. The Levites are mine, 13 for all the firstborn are mine. When I struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, I set apart for myself every firstborn in Israel, whether human or animal. They are to be mine. I am the Lord.” Num 3:12,13
The tribe of Levi was God’s ‘special possession’ (1 Pet 2:9); knowing this, why did Korah rebel against Aaron’s appointment as high priest and Moses as God’s spokesperson? Why would Korah desire a position other than what God had already given him?
The Watchtower 02/8/1 states under its subheading, “MUST YOU MEN ALSO TRY TO SECURE THE PRIESTHOOD?”:
“Whatever Korah’s reasoning might have been, it is clear that he began to view the priesthood from a HUMAN STANDPOINT. That led to his rebellion against Moses and Aaron and, ultimately, against Jehovah.”
He viewed their position as an entitlement with special privileges, power and dominance; yes, from a human standpoint, but Moses reminded him and all the 250 in his company:
“Hear now, you sons of Levi: Is it a small thing to you that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the work of the tabernacle of the Lord, and to stand before the congregation to serve them; 10 and that He has brought you near to Himself, you and all your brethren, the sons of Levi, with you? And are you seeking the priesthood also? 11 Therefore you and all your company are gathered together against the Lord. And what is Aaron that you complain against him?” Num 16:8-11
(Exod 28:3; Heb 5:1-4)
The title of the 02/8/1 Watchtower article is,
“LOYALLY SUBMIT TO GODLY AUTHORITY”,
and in this article we find Watchtower’s lies, deceit and REBELLION, upheld by the organization’s leaders.
Today’s High Priest of his appointed “royal priesthood” is Jesus Christ. 1 Pet 2:5,9,10; Heb 4:14,15 Could it be that the GB has deceitfully stepped in as “High Priest” over God’s anointed ones?
“The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the Governing Body, they are in fact following their leader, Christ. Wt 9/15/2010”
The anointed servants of God are to listen and follow one Master, Jesus Christ; just as the early priesthood under Aaron, followed Aaron’s direction. There is no place, no member in the Body of Christ that is superior over another; except the Head, Jesus Christ. Col 1:18; Eph 5:23,26,27,30-32; 1 Pet 4:10; 1 Cor 12:24-26
Has the Governing Body compared themselves to Moses? Indirectly, yes.
“Of course, those taking the lead in the earthly part of God’s organization are not perfect—but neither was Moses.” Watchtower 11/4/15 pp. 3-5
How self-assuming of an uninspired GB, to even hint at equality with a man who, as scripture says, spoke “face to face” with God. Only Christ, who sits at his right hand, could be compared to Moses. Num 12:6-8; Heb 3:1-6
In the rebellion against Moses and Aaron, Korah’s company, “men of renown”, also included Dathan, Abiram, and On from the tribe of Reuben. Altogether, these men rallied against God’s appointed servants by making the claim,
“You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?” Num 16:3
This accusation clearly reveals the men’s hearts in ignoring God’s authority, and viewing the positions of Moses and Aaron as man-appointed, and not sanctioned by God. I find it incredible that although Korah and those with him had literally seen God’s great power in action, they still questioned his guidance through those he personally appointed. How quickly one’s mind can be clouded over with darkness, the result of self-absorption.
Jesus, our High Priest, resides over his priesthood in the anointed ones. They are the only ones who can fulfill their spiritual duties in God’s Temple/sanctuary. 1 Pet 2:5,9,10; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22; 2 Cor 6:16; Rev 1:6 The rituals of preparatory cleansing and sacrifices in Aaron’s time were based on the “heavenly things”; which is reaching its completeness during this time period of today. Heb 8:5; Col 2:17; Mal 3:2,3
Keeping in mind the accusation made by Korah and those with him, examine the Watchtower’s words that show vivid evidence of an elder body “securing the priesthood”:
“Representing the royal priesthood are appointed elders, who serve in positions of responsibility in congregations of Jehovah’s people around the earth. These men deserve our respect and wholehearted support, WHETHER THEY ARE OF THE ANOINTED OR NOT. Why? Because, through his holy spirit, Jehovah has appointed the older men to their positions. (Hebrews 13:7, 17) How can that be?”
Did God appoint a “Gentile” elder body to represent his own priesthood of spiritual “Israel” that reside among them, expecting their obedience also? (Rom 2:28,29; Rev 7:4) It is not written anywhere in the Bible that substitutes for God’s priesthood could be made, but there are plenty of references where its enactment brought about the wrath of God. Ezek 28:18; 44:6-9; 2 Chron 13:9; Num 3:10, 8:19
The Watchtower continues:
“These older men meet the requirements that are set out in God’s Word, which is a product of God’s spirit. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) Hence, their appointment CAN BE SAID to be by holy spirit. (Acts 20:28)
This is an opinion, just as Korah and his men expressed their opinion.
The Governing Body is using the claim that God’s spirit, which generated the scriptures, is enough evidence to appoint one to stand in as a “priest” in God’s Temple; thereby, it is ASSUMED, SUPPOSED, SEEMINGLY POSSIBLE, TAKEN FOR GRANTED…
In other words…
“CAN BE SAID”, that God chose them.
Men are determining whether men meet the requirements; God has nothing to do with it, since his priesthood was already appointed by him through the anointing they received; yet the organization’s leaders have gone out on a limb by surmising that “the Supreme Judge” (par. 19) appointed the elder body by using scriptures that rightly refer to the anointed ones.
HAVE THEY LOYALLY SUBMITTED TO GODLY AUTHORITY?
NO. THEY HAVE INSTALLED THEIR OWN OPPRESSIVE AND CONDEMNING AUTHORITARIAN STRUCTURE BASED ON A HUMAN STANDPOINT.
How far these men have presumptuously gone, in unrighteous acts against Godly Authority, and who boldly compare themselves to both Moses and Aaron. They say of the false priesthood/elder body,
“Rather than challenge their authority, we truly appreciate our hardworking elders!”
JWs, Please! DO challenge their false assumptions and twisted reasoning! There is no scriptural basis for this manmade rule or “law”; instead, it is “lawlessness”. 2 Thess 2:3,4,9-12; Rev 13:5-7,18; 11:1,2 Jesus said we would see the “disgusting thing standing in the holy place”, which is the false priesthood “representing” God’s Temple priests; whose lead, the anointed must follow, according to the Watchtower. As time exposes it for what it is, “sudden destruction” is not far behind. Luke 17:26-30; 1 Thess 5:3; 2 Thess 2:4,9-12
Thousands died during Korah’s rebellion, starting with Korah and the households of Dathan, and Abiram. It then spread by plague killing 14,700 who complained against Moses. It was a conspiracy never enacted – never put into practice, while today’s opposition against God’s chosen priesthood, is an abomination in the height of its activity – a dark plague of deceit already upon God’s anointed ones and companions. Matt 24:24,25,48-51; Rev 8:10,11; 9:1-6
Having faith in Jesus’ prophetic words describing this situation, can urge us to FLEE such an abomination standing defiantly before God; one well cloaked under the guise of divine inspiration. Matt 24:15,16; Rev 13:15
Pearl Doxsey – 4 womaninthewilderness:
"First, let's briefly unravel and define the "disgusting thing".
In history...
Deut.29:17,18; 1Kings11:4,5,6; Eze.8:10; Jer.44:4
(In the original language, these verses contain "disgusting thing",
although not in all versions of translation...sometimes rendered,
"other gods", "detestable images", "abominations".)
Ezekiel chapter 8 merits a closer scriptural look, so that we can get a fuller meaning...
Eze.8:5 shows that there is an "image of jealousy" North of the altar gate...blocking entrance to the altar of sacrifice (perfect symbolism).Eze.8:6,9 describes...not a tangible image, but rather, activities being done in God's Temple. So the Image and the activities are two separate abominations.
Now for verse 11...
"And there stood before them seventy men of the elders of the house of Israel,..Each man had a censer in his hand, and a thick cloud of incense went up."
What is the problem here?
The answer is within the account at Numbers, chapter 16.
Do you remember what was going on there? It is worth reading the whole chapter to get the point of what Ezekiel was being shown.
To highlight the point, please read...
Num.16:3,4,5,6,7,10,11,18,20,21,35,40.
Can you see that those who perform the tasks which God designates for priests only, must not be performed by "the elders of Israel"? Even the king of Israel had to obey this law, which was punishable by death (1Sam.13:9,10,11,13,14; 2Chron.23:6,7; Num.18:7).
The abomination Ezekiel describes, is the elders of Israel performing priestly duties within the Temple (offering incense)...the same offense as the rebellion against Aaron, who was chosen by God as priest. To have counterfeit priests in God's Temple is a gross offense against Him. It is an abomination for unsanctified Gentiles to offer incense for the forgiveness of the people's sins (Num.16:47).
How is this occurring today?
The NWT of Gal.6:1 reads:
"Brethren, if a man commits a sin, you who have spiritual qualifications should try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness".
"have spiritual qualifications"...
How does the WT apply this phrase? Is it not to the non-anointed/non-priest Elders?
This is due to 1Tim.3:1-13. Should these two scriptures really be linked as referring to the same group?
Let's take a closer look at these modern day "incense" burners and this scriptural interpretation.
If you look at what Gal.6:1 actually reads (it helps to check the original Greek),
it says in essence... "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who walk/live by spirit/ who are spirit ones... should restore him gently."
This "walking/living by/being spirit", is not one of the "qualifications" for elders.
It is not in the list of qualifications for elders, at 1Tim.. chapter 3.
That is because Gal.6:1 is not referring to elders.
It is referring to those who "walk/live by/are, spirit". THESE are the ones given authority to do the "readjusting".
The Bible defines who it is, that "walks/lives by spirit"...
Gal.5:25,24 reads:
"Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires."
Compare this to Gal. 3:29:
"If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise."
See Romans8:14,16,17...
"because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."
Clearly, it is the chosen priests who are to "re-adjust" sinners in a spirit of gentleness. This is their job as symbolic incense burners within God's Temple of anointed (1Cor.3:16).
So we see that the symbolic prophecies in Ezekiel regarding the "elders of Israel" burning incense within the temple, is certainly considered by God as an abomination, as well as the rebellion of the governing priests who dare to place them there (Eze.44:6,7,8,9; 2Chron.13:9).
This offense is alive and well today, as the GB of the WT has arranged for non-anointed elders to usurp God's chosen priests, perform their exclusive duties, and throw out any of them that protest this abominable disrespect toward God and His Holy Temple. (Heb.12:22,23,24,25,21,28,29)"