Witness

It’s based on each person’s obedience to God, isn’t it? If a stumbling block is placed in our path of following Christ and the Father, what do we do? Do we stop and expect God to remove it, or does he expect us to remove it? People can create stumbling blocks before us through the coercion of theories and say it comes from God. We, too, can form our own stumbling block by throwing up our hands and shutting down any progress to obey God completely, when we hear and heed those we have allowed to rule over us say, “wait on Jehovah”. There are many who believe they are obeying God completely, because others tell them they are, but this obedience to the Father and the Son is up to each one of us to discern. Many, many, in the day that Christ returns will be surprised. “On that day many will say to Me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in Your name, drive out demons in Your name, and do many miracles in Your name?’ Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you! Depart from Me, you lawbreakers!’” Matt 7:22 Jesus said these words after telling his followers that they must “test the fruit” – the teachings. If a “tree”, symbolic for God’s anointed ones, carries bad fruit, it is cut down and burned in the fire. (Rev 22:2; Ezek 47:12; Zech 4:3; Matt 3:10) There is no mixing of fruit, if it isn’t entirely good, it is entirely bad. Mat 7:18-20 If we tolerate any “evil” deeds, we are condoning them and are just as guilty. Jer 26:3-6 This is why Jesus also said, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because I tell you, many will try to enter and won’t be able once the homeowner gets up and shuts the door. Then you will stand outside and knock on the door, saying, ‘Lord, open up for us!’ He will answer you, ‘I don’t know you or where you’re from.’ Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets!’ But He will say, ‘I tell you, I don’t know you or where you’re from. Get away from Me, all you workers of unrighteousness!’” Luke 13:23-27

"I declare the end from the beginning, and from long ago what is not yet done, saying: My plan will take place, and I will do all My will." Isa 46:10 "For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return there without saturating the earth and making it germinate and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, so My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do.” Isa 55:10,11 “See, today I have set before you life and prosperity, death and adversity. I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live” Deut 30:15,19 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because I tell you, many will try to enter and won’t be able” Luke 13:24 “Make sure that you do not reject the One who speaks. For if they did not escape when they rejected Him who warned them on earth, even less will we if we turn away from Him who warns us from heaven.” Heb 12:25 "And Noah did this. He did everything that God had commanded him." Gen 6:22 "As the days of Noah were, so the coming of the Son of Man will be". Matt 24:37 "Now these things happened to them as examples, and they were written as a warning to us, on whom the ends of the ages have come." 1 Cor 10:11 Luke 21:21,22; 17:32; Isa 52:11; 2 Cor 6:17; Jer 51:45; Rev 18:4

These are some thought-provoking quote from the Wt. 3/17 pp. 8-12 "However, Jehovah’s Witnesses refrain from treating religious leaders as ones who merit extraordinary honor, even though those leaders may expect it. False religion misrepresents God and distorts the teachings of his Word. Thus, we show religious leaders regard as fellow humans, but we do not show them special honor. We recall that Jesus denounced such men of his day as hypocrites and blind guides. (Matt. 23:23, 24" "Such elders are recognized as humble spiritual shepherds. As evidence of their humility, they refuse to let themselves be treated as celebrities. In this they differ from many modern-day religious leaders and from those of the first century about whom Jesus said: “They like the most prominent place at evening meals and the front seats in the synagogues and the greetings in the marketplaces.”—Matt. 23:6, 7." I can’t say I agree with the second paragraph. Their word rules no different than the words of a Catholic priest. Both hear confessions, both judge. And what about the “faithful and discreet slave”? I have seen pictures on this forum easily depicting the GB as prominent figures. Does this not also distort the teachings of God’s word? When Jesus said, “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time?” (Matt 24:45), he is essentially saying, among all his faithful and wise servants, (whom he already has judged as such) who will the master put in charge of the household? He is not saying that the one in charge is the only faithful and wise servant. At one time the Wt. taught that every anointed one was the “faithful and wise” slave. Recently, it has boiled down to just the GB with no scriptural reason, except that it fulfills prophesy. Rev 13:11,15; 16:13,14 But there is evidence in scripture that a “steward” over God’s household (which is all anointed ones, 1 Pet 4:17; Eph 2:21; 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17) can begin to “beat” his fellow slaves, by selfishly insisting on their own announcement as faithful and discreet prematurely, by insisting that the Lord returns also prematurely, (Matt 24:48) by judging them without cause. (Matt 24:48) Each anointed one must be found “faithful and wise” upon Jesus’ return. Matt 25:21 “When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he told them this parable: “When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, ‘Give this person your seat.’ Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 14:7-11 It is also true that each one of us is to slave for Christ and not for men. Rom 14:4; James 4:12 The title of “publisher”, along with unbaptized publisher, circuit overseer, district overseer, pioneer, special pioneer, etc, all categorize the sheep by bestowing certain characteristics that one must take note of. What is the difference between the Wt. doing this and Christendom “meriting certain honor” on individuals? Jesus said, "Why do you call me good?" "No one is good--except God alone." Mark 10:18 If Jesus never accepted honor, why would any man seek his own glory, expecting obedience from others because of his self-proclaimed title? The scenario of both a faithful steward as well as an evil steward present during the end time is evident in the scriptures. One must discern who they both are by analyzing their “fruits”, their teachings. Matt 24:48-51; Matt 7:15-20; John 15:4,5,8,16; Heb 13:15; Jude 1:12 Because we are all to be slaves of Christ, we are all responsible for our loyalty to pure truth. Phil 1:9,10 The responsibility doesn’t just fall on the teacher, but on the student as well. Jer 23:16-30; 5:30-31 Prov 2:1-15; Matt 7:7,8; Zeph 2:3; Ps 26:4-7; 2 Cor 6:17; Rev 3:18

Very beautiful picture. Here is the entire scriptural thought: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.” James 1:5-9 Generation teaching: "The actual meaning of these words is, beyond question, that which takes a “generation” in the ordinary sense, as at Mark 8:12 and Acts 13:36, or for those who are living at the given period. So it was on “this generation” that the accumulated judgments were to fall. (Matt. 23:36) This therefore means that from 1914 a generation shall not pass till all is fulfilled, and amidst a great time of trouble." Wt. ‘51/7/1 p.404 "Jesus was not departing from his established use of the term “this generation”, which he consistently applied to the contemporary masses with their “blind guides” who together made up the Jewish nation. ... Jesus refers principally to contemporary people of a certain historical period, with their identifying characteristics." Wt.’95/11/1 pp.14,20 "As a class, these anointed ones make up the modern-day "generation" of contemporaries that will not pass away "until all these things occur." This suggests that some who are Christ's anointed brothers will still be alive on earth when the foretold great tribulation begins." Wt. ‘08/2/15 Feb 15 p.24 "He evidently meant that the lives of the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914 would overlap with the lives of other anointed ones who would see the start of the great tribulation." Wt. ‘10/4/15 15 p.10 “The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or in organizational direction.” Wt. 17/2

Watchtower - “Although Jesus does not explain why he calls riches “unrighteous,” (Matt 13:10-15) the Bible makes clear that commercialism was not part of God’s purpose.” Par 6 Matt 6:19-21; Luke 16:13; Matt 19:21; Luke 18:22; Mark 7:9-13 “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness." 1 Tim 6:6-11

Not unrighteous in the least? The organization mingles with other secular commercial mega corporations but tells the sheep to guard themselves in commercial endeavors? From JWfacts.com – “Though condemning the world's commercial system as part of Satan's system, the Watchtower Society has not held back from utilising it to the fullest, in the process becoming a multi-billion dollar organization. In 2010, the valuation of Watchtower real-estate in Brooklyn alone exceeded a billion dollars. By claiming religious or charity status, the billions earned over the last century have been largely tax free. The Watchtower Society has used stocks, bonds and trusts as investment vehicles. One such trust was the H M Riley Trust, from the deceased estate of Henrietta Riley. This trust trades in a wide spread of bonds and shares in companies such as Exxon Mobil, Coca Cola, Proctor & Gamble, Phillip Morris (one of the world's largest cigarette manufacturers) and Cardinal Health (who supply medical equipment including for blood transfusions.) In 2007, Watchtower had an SEC filing for a $40 million dollar hedge fund through K2 STB Fund Ltd, located in the Cayman Islands. For a full description see watchtowerlies.org. Shares have also been held in Rand, a supplier to the U.S. Department of Defence, as shown at this SEC filing as of 20th Feb 2015.” Does the title “Jehovah’s organization” confirm it is “no part of the world”, when indeed it is thick in the middle of it, participating in the same activity as any large commercial entity? And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” John 2:16 (Greek meaning for merchandise - a place were trade is carried on, esp. a seaport, a mart, an emporium) Did the early apostles build a “market” that relies on money? “For we are not like the many who market God’s message for profit. On the contrary, we speak with sincerity in Christ, as from God and before God.” 2 Cor 2:17 That was their only focus, taught to them by Jesus. It was the doctrine “which accords to godliness”, not “useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. (investments) From such withdraw yourself.” 1 Tim 6:5 The organization has created not only a literal commerce of trade, but a spiritual one, where any “buying and selling” must be done through the GB’s final words enforced by the elder body. Luke 6:24-26; James 5:1 In Matt 25:24-27, the slave of Christ (anointed ones) is too afraid to speak up against the “banker” (GB), to use the talent received from Christ (which is truth), in the banker’s “marketplace”. 1 John 2:20,27; 1 Cor 4:1; Matt 25:14,15; Rev 3:18. Upon his return, Jesus tells the fearful slave, “you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest." Acts 1:2,8,9; Matt 28:19,20 The slave could have put aside his fear and given his “talent” (knowledge of truth) to the bankers in control of the spiritual commerce – the GB. Zech 8:16; Eph 4:25 Instead, the slave kept the talent/truth buried “in the ground” – in his own heart. Fear, accomplished by the threat of disfellowshiping. “Stop making my house a house of merchandise”. God’s “house” is the heart of each anointed one – his Temple. John 14:23; Eph 2:21; John 2:19-21; 2 Cor 3:3 The GB, the other anointed and all in the org have filled their heart with earthly treasures that must be nourished, pursued, attended to, leaving the deposit of spiritual truth to wither. Matt 6:19-21 2 Cor 6:16 - And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For youare the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people.” “agreement” – “a putting together or joint deposit” The Watchtower “idol” is the earthly, even spiritual treasure that takes precedence over the Holy Spirit and truth in an anointed one’s heart. All JWs have done the same. “Therefore speak to them, and say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Everyone of the house of Israel who sets up his idols in his heart, and puts before him what causes him to stumble into iniquity, and then comes to the prophet, I the Lord will answer him who comes, according to the multitude of his idols, that I may seize the house of Israel by their heart, because they are all estranged from Me by their idols.”’ Ezek 14:4,5

Oh dear, Anna. Where does one begin? They have violated God’s Temple arrangement by authorizing the replacing of His anointed Temple priesthood with the elder body. Ezek 44:7; 5:11; 8,5,6; 23:38;33:11; (Rev 13:7; Matt 24:15; Dan 9:27; 11:16; Rev 13:4; Dan 11:31; 12:11 Although they are quick to point out Christendom's faults - "RELIGIOUS LEADERS sometimes predict tragic worldwide events to warn mankind and gather followers. Doomsday prophet Harold Camping and his disciples widely advertised that the earth would be destroyed in 2011. Needless to say, the world is still here." Watchtower 2014 May 1 p.3 They call this err in guidance - "Shortly, within our twentieth century, the 'battle in the day of Jehovah' will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom." The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah 1971 But God holds the GB accountable. Deut 18:20-22; Jer 23:16 They spiritually condemn one to “death” if an individual cannot, at the time of announcement or any time accept failed prophetic dates, or changed doctrine. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matt 7:1,2 By doing this to anointed ones, their brothers in Christ, they have essentially authorized their “killing” Rom 13:9; 1 John 3:12 They have stolen salvation found only in Christ and have given it to an organization. Acts 4:12 They have authorized loyalty, love, faith and obedience to be adhered toward this organization, thus robbing God of our whole-souled loyalt, love, faith and obedience. Essentially, they have broken every commandment and the decrees that God and Christ have asked to be obeyed. Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matt 22:37-40 And just today I heard a video where the organization charged interested on loans borrowed for kingdom hall quick builds, for 20 years. This was most likely authorized by the GB. Exod 22:25; Ezek 18:13; Deut 23:19; Luke 6:35 There is so much more, but how much good does it do to say it? Eight million people will still obey them. Isa 9:14-16

I appreciate not being guided by any other method than that of scriptural reasoning: "I have realized, that the geographical location of Jerusalem, no longer holds any significance to God. The previous Temple in Jerusalem did reap the very consequences foretold by Christ (Mark 13:1-2; Matt.23:37-38). God's dwelling is no longer there.He now abides within the hearts of His Temple stones (1Cor.6:19; 3:16; 1Pet.2:5,9; Eph.2:21-22). God's Temple is now located, in the members of NEW Jerusalem (Rev.21:9,2; Eph.5:23; Rev.21:22). God knew from the beginning, that his Chosen Ones would come to reside all around the globe (Acts 1:8; Mark 13:27; Rev.5:9-10; 7:9). Why then, I asked in prayer, would the city responsible for the death of God's Son (Acts 7:52; John 8:40; Mark 10:33) whom Jesus declared as "abandoned" by God (Matt.23:38), be the basis for any worship which the faithful perform, today? (Eph.5:10-11; 2Cor.6:17; Job 14:4) My resulting decision then, is that each person should partake on the equivalent of Nisan 13, in their own locale. I expect that this will be during the same 24 hour period around the globe, after each person's sunset. The way in which Nisan is calculated, is to find out when the Spring Equinox occurs. Then go to the schedule of the new moon for each month in your area, and find the new moon that occurred BEFORE the Spring Equinox.That new moon, is the start of the last month of the Jewish calendar that Jesus followed. Then find the next new moon. That is the first day of the first month of the new year (Nisan). If the new moon occurs at an hour, after the partakers sun has already set, then that 24 hour period (sunset to sunset) is still the last day of the last month. The fresh day, would start the following sunset.Next, is to count 13 days from the starting evening of Nisan 1.For my location, that brings the start of Nisan 13, to after sunset, on April 9th.This is when I intend to partake. It is up to each individual, to decide what they will choose to do. For those who may be wondering why I plan to observe the Memorial on Nisan 13 instead of 14;it is because Jesus did not institute the Memorial of his death, nor die, on Nisan 14.He did so, the day before, on the "Day of Preparation", the first day of unfermented cakes. Pearl Doxsey From this point we can calculate when Christ was resurrected and "celebrate" it purely through scripture.

Only. That is a power packed word in regard to the topic, but allowance cannot be made for an elder body, if that is what you are referring to. Although the Wt. claims they are appointed by holy spirit, if this is an arrangement contrary to God’s spiritual arrangement already in place, which it is, they are not appointed by holy spirit. “And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.” John 12:47,48 The words of God and our adherence to them, are in essence what judges all of us. John 14:23; Luke 12:10; John 8:51; Heb 4:12-13 We become “slaves of Christ” because he is the Word, the Truth, the Life and Light. Gal 1:10; John 14:6; 8:12 If a doctor, with a well-known positive reputation told you clearly the way you’re going to recuperate from an illness, would you obey his instructions? Most likely, and you might say, “I’m going to do what the doctor says”, yet you would not become that person’s slave. The elder body as well as the GB have gone beyond the “instruction” level to the judgement level, by resorting to slavery – servitude to their word. Do they judge in truth, or by man’s doctrine? Our obedience is to the word of Truth. Those who are designated by God to also speak this truth are his kingly priesthood of anointed ones. The early temple priesthood under God’s direction gives us the pattern to understand how God intended for all to be served, as well as the direction of their “obedience” to the hearing the word of God. We can learn this through these scriptures: Deut. 24:8; 2 Chron 30:22; 2 Chron 35:3; Lev 10:11; Mal 2:7; Heb 8:10 They are the authentic shepherds to feed and care for Christ’s sheep in the priestly judicial aspect, as well as kingly – with authority and power of truth, in imitation of their Master Christ who is within them and they are a part of. Eph 4:25; John 14:23; John 15:1-8 Since the Wt. has erased this priesthood completely, formatting its own with its own rules, Christ’s words will be their judge. Dan 8:10-12; 7:9,10,25-27 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.” John 13:20; Matt 10:40-42; 25:31-46; John 14:23,24 For those within the Body of Christ during the time of the end, “Elijah” comes to restore all things. Matt 17:11 I implied that Heb 13:17 referred to those within the Body, and as many who obeyed John the Baptist’s teachings and followed him, anointed ones must recognize and be obedient to the restoration of truth by “Elijah”, coming from the Father, to the Son, to those fathers and children in Christ. Mal 4:5,6; 3:1; Mark 1:3; Zech 4:9,14,11; Rev 11:4,3; 10:7; Isa 52:7 Out of love for our natural father, we give him obedience by listening and responding to his word. How much more so should the entire family under our God.

NWT – “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over you as those who will render an account, so that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you.” Heb 13:17 Unless someone comes up with the same wording highlighted above, this is generally how it is translated: “ Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” NIV No one should “take” the lead as it is given through Christ, since this scripture refers to the Body of Christ and its arrangement; with its original intention referring to the foundation of this Body Eph 2:20-22; 4:11; 1 Cor 12:7-31 As I have mentioned, Paul and the apostles are our examples as to how this is accomplished. The elder body is a counterfeit leadership/priesthood appointed on scriptural guidelines, while the anointed priesthood is appointed by Holy Spirit. Thus, the elder body insists on “slavery” while the early apostles didn’t. “Those related to us in the faith certainly merit honor and respect. This is especially true of the elders who are taking the lead”. w17 March pp. 8-12 1 Cor 1:12-14;John 7:17,18; Matt 23:12 Surely it must seem curiously revealing for the NWT to translate Heb 13:17 as “take the lead”. How true it is. Eze 22:26; 44:6-9; Rev 11:2

Why is “imperfection” always the excuse? Because perfection cannot be reached? “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethrenonly, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect." Matt 5:43-48 If we are continually reminded of our imperfections, progression toward becoming perfect is never thought to be achievable. WHO doesn’t want JWs to become perfect?

"We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29) I am seeing many references to this scripture in comments by JWs, regarding the Russian news; I am guessing it is promoted by elders during meetings. Does this only pertain to governmental authorities? “One way that you can examine yourself is to ask such questions as: ‘Do I pray regularly? When others encourage me to do wrong, do I obey God as ruler rather than men? Do I attend meetings regularly? Am I bold in speaking about my beliefs? Do I forgive the mistakes my brothers make, just as I want them to forgive me? Do I obey the elders in my congregation and also those who care for the worldwide congregation?’ ws14 9/15 pp. 9-14 Clearly, this is indicating that elders must not be the men that Acts 5:29 refers to, which is why they have the authority to judge another. “Jehovah has trained elders in his methods of judging. He has authorized them to represent him in handling problems in the congregation. “ jr chap. 12 pp. 140-153 If this is true, then who is in error, Paul or the Watchtower? “Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand.” Rom 14:4 Is James the one who speaks against God’s decision to allow elders to judge? “Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Who are you to judge another?” James 4:11,12 w02 3/15 pp. 13-18 “How can we display our gratitude and esteem for the older men—elders, or overseers—in the congregation? Paul answers: “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive.” (Hebrews 13:17) Yes, we are to obey them and be submissive, to yield, to them. Rom 6:16 KJV - Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? “Servants” – “A slave, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency” Paul was a stellar leader, teaching in the truth about Christ. James words show he too, was effectively leading others in truth, as well as Peter who spoke the words in Acts 5:29. Did any of them expect others to be their slaves? They heeded Christ’s words: “Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matt 20:25-28 These scriptures tie in neatly with the leadership of the organization. The GB, spiritual “Jews” and the “high officials”, exercise authority over the “rulers”, elder body, of the “Gentiles - the majority of JWs. If we have the capability to “lord it over” another, we have the ability to judge another, something which the great leaders taught by Christ admonished against. All congregants are expected to be yielding, obeying, submissive slaves (verified by scripture) of the elders, which is a sin. Why? Because they are men. “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.” 1 Cor 7:23 NKJV of Rom 6:16-18- Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. Slaves are under the rulership of another. While we are to serve only Christ, an entire elder body stands in the way. Eph 6:6,Col 3:24,1 Peter 2:16 “The elders in our congregation use their personal time to work hard for us. When we think about all that they do, our love and appreciation for them grows. We would never want them to lose their joy or become frustrated because of something we do. Instead, we want to obey willingly. This way we “give them extraordinary consideration in love because of their work.” ws16 January pp. 3-8 “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.” Gal 1:10 Jesus said no one can serve two masters, thus we are only to obey God as ruler, rather than men, in the manner that He expects. Matt 6:24

“John also described a harlot, or prostitute, who rides upon a scarlet-colored wildbeast. This beast is the same as the image of the wild beast with seven heads. The harlot is called “Babylon the Great.” (Revelation 17:1-6) This harlot means all false religions. The religions of Christendom are surely part of Babylon the Great. False religions have publicly supported the image of the beast, that is, the League of Nations and the United Nations, and they have tried to direct these organizations.” ws12 6/15 pp. 14-19 Another doctrine that is probably on its way out now. So, if the Wild Beast is not the UN, who or what is this beast ,where the false prophet/ harlot “sits” (“dwells”) and the Wild Beast ‘carries’ (“to sustain, uphold, to support”)” her, and “kills” (“to deprive of spiritual life and procure eternal misery in hell) those who refuse to receive its “mark” (“a badge of servitude”)? Rev 13:16,17

Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are savage wolves. You will know them by their fruit. Grapes aren’t gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles, are they? In the same way, every good tree produces good fruit, but a rotten tree produces bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a rotten tree cannot produce good fruit. Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into a fire. So by their fruit you will know them.” Matt 7:15-20 It is not the production of physical evidence that Jesus was referring to, but the quality of teaching that each anointed one produces. “A good tree doesn’t produce rotten fruit, and a rotten tree doesn’t produce good fruit, because every tree is known by its own fruit. People don’t gather figs from thorny plants or pick grapes from a thorn bush. A good person produces good from the good treasure of his heart, and an evil person produces evil from an evil treasure, because the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” Luke 6:43-45 “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree rotten and its fruit rotten, because a tree is known by its fruit. You children of serpents! How can you say anything good when you are evil? The mouth speaks about what overflows from the heart. A good person brings good things out of a good treasure house, and an evil person brings evil things out of an evil treasure house. I tell you, on Judgment Day people will give an account for every thoughtless word they have uttered, because by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matt 12:33-37 Because Christ spoke these words, we know how important it is to him that those who are to represent him, must speak only truth. These are Christ’s guidelines that he expects us to use, and we have the right to follow them. If Paul and Silas who taught to the Beroeans had their teachings examined, should it stop with the Governing Body? Acts 17:11 All anointed ones’ teachings are to be entirely sourced in scripture, not in person doctrine. It can help us determine who has the blessing of Holy Spirit.

A few highlights: “Although Jesus does not explain why he calls riches “unrighteous,” the Bible makes clear that commercialism was not part of God’s purpose. Par 6 Along with the political and religious elements, the greedy commercial system, represented by “the merchants” of Revelation 18:3, constitutes part of Satan’s world. Unlike the complete separation that God’s people maintain from politics and false religion, most cannot separate themselves completely from the commercial part of Satan’s world. Par 2 Another way to gain friendship with Jehovah is by minimizing our involvement with the commercial world and using our circumstances to seek “true” riches. Par 12 “Our annual Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM) Growth Markets Summit, held on April 24th and 25th in New York City, featured a series of in-depth conversations on important themes and dynamics shaping the Growth Markets today. The event comprised 18 different sessions featuring over 40 leading CEOs, CIOs, policy makers, political scientists, industry experts, investment fund managers and senior Goldman Sachs professionals. We were honored to be joined by over 400 attendees representing over 275 organizations from 37 countries.” 2012 GROWTH MARKETS SUMMIT http://www.goldmansachs.com/gsam/pdfs/growth-summit-2012/2012GMS_RECAP2.pdf The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society were among the 400 attendees. “An obvious way to prove ourselves faithful with our material things is by contributing financially to the worldwide preaching work that Jesus foretold would take place. (Matt. 24:14) A young girl in India kept a small money box and gradually added coins, even giving up toys to do so. When the box was full, she handed the money over to be used for the preaching work. A brother in India who has a coconut farm contributed a large number of coconuts to the Malayalam remote translation office, reasoning that since the office needs to buy coconuts, his supplying them directly will help his contribution to go further than it would if he gave cash. That is practical wisdom. Likewise, brothers in Greece regularly contribute olive oil, cheese, and other foods for the Bethel family.” Par 8 Is it considered “practical wisdom” for the Watchtower to use another’s hard earned funds to support its commercial endeavors which are far from minimal? Although it is apparent that the Wt. is using another’s riches 'unrighteously', the “unrighteous riches” Jesus was referring to had no reference to commercialism or monetary donations made by such touching examples in paragraph 8. This is conclusive when reading Matt 19:21-24,29; 6:19-21 Each anointed one has a spiritual debt to pay to his Master, Christ. (1 Cor 12:1-11; Matt 13:8; Luke 17:10) The Steward appointed over God’s household refuses to let his fellow slaves pay their debt, the return on the provisions they received. This is the reality with the GB, who selfishly refuses to accept input from other anointed ones, thus this “wasteful steward” cannot be trusted with handling all provisions of God’s House. Prov 15:22; 1 Cor 4:8; Mark 10:42-44 In the parable, the steward was cutting the debts owed to the Master, Jesus, using practical “earthly” wisdom to save his own soul, but he had no authority to do so. Thus, the steward’s wisdom is centered not on the Kingdom, as a son of light, but on acquiring power and authority over all in God’s House, as a “son of this system of things”, which the GB has successfully done. If this steward was to ‘make friends’ by sharing authority with all in the house, he would later be judged by his fellow servants, as faithful. John 20:23 The Watchtower makes the comment, “Although Jesus does not explain why he calls riches “unrighteous,” the Bible makes clear that commercialism was not part of God’s purpose.” Par 6 The attached article is written by an anointed one, who has been blessed with the spiritual understanding of "unrighteous riches". If the Wt. doesn't 'get it', who are they serving, God or wealth? Luke 16:13 Wasteful Steward - http://pearl-wastefulsteward.blogspot.com/

Beginning with a comment made to an anointed one: "While there are some glaring doctrinal errors embedded in the faith of Jehovah’s witnesses I do not see any conflict with scripture as to when they hold the Memorial. If as you stated there is no evidence that Jesus left any specified date and time to hold the Memorial then the matter of partaking is left up to the conscience of the individual partaking. As such there is no impropriety associated with continuing the practice of observing on Nissan 14th. In fact it supports scripture and the gospel accounts to do just that.We know from scripture that Jesus was killed on the same day that the other Passover victims were being killed and according to the Law of Moses this could have only occurred on the 14th of the month. We can’t change the order of events to support his last supper at the expense of his death.His death as a sacrificial offering had to conform to the sacrificial system otherwise it could not be accepted as payment or atonement. The yearly Passover was not only a commemoration of the past but also a rehearsal for the future antitypical atonement sacrifice that God himself promised to provide in the future. According to your account this never happened and God to date has not kept his word.Jesus remained under law and the law remained in effect until his death, in order to fulfill the law he had to complete the law first. Keep in mind that the sacrificial system, the law and the temple arrangement originated with God and he is not above his own law. God’s own righteousness would demand that he work within the confines of his own system to provide atonement for mankind. To suggest otherwise calls into question the legitimacy of the sacrifice as the day you have rearranged Jesus death could not have had any legal precedent in scripture. If we take your assessment at face value, God accepted an illegitimate sacrifice which would be illegal payment for sin and extended forgiveness without any legal justification. In essence your narrative convicts God of Unrighteousness and delegitimizes Jesus sacrifice. " Reply: Thank you for leaving a comment. Sorry for the time it took to reply. I am presently caring for an elderly parent. The purpose of my post above (as well as the link it contains), provides scriptures that convey a clear picture, as to when Christ both held the last supper with his disciples, as well as when the Passover lambs were sacrificed. Since you express that you believe that day to be Nisan 14; I will provide those verses more pointedly for your consideration, and if you do not interpret those cited scriptures in the same way as I, I would appreciate your expressing here, your own understanding of those cited verses. "Jehovah's Witnesses" claim to hold the Memorial on Nisan 14, and also establish this Jewish date as the time to celebrate... not the Passover, but the Memorial of Christ's last meal with his chosen disciples. I do not challenge the proper date for the Passover Sabbath, as being Nisan 14. But I have logically deduced by means of scripture, that Jesus neither held the Last Meal with his disciples, nor died, on Nisan 14. The scriptures also reveal, that the Passover lambs were sacrificed at twilight, as Nisan 13 was ending and Nisan 14 was starting. At twilight, the days overlapped, just as our days do, as night gradually leaves at sunrise. The Passover lambs were to be eaten that evening, after nightfall, on the new day of Nisan 14 (Exodus 12:5-8,12-13,22,29). After nightfall of Nisan 14, was the Passover. Therefore, it was the twilight of Nisan13-14, when the lambs were slaughtered. Jesus died at 3pm, before the arrival of that twilight, while it was still Nisan 13. God however, created a premature supernatural "twilight" as Jesus was dying (Matt.27:45-46,50; John12:35; 9:5,4), making it impossible for the Jews to have a valid twilight sacrifice and Passover in God's estimation, in the nightfall to come, on Nisan 14, 33CE. In 33CE, the Jews had their Passover and ate the lambs, after nightfall on Nisan 14, and after Jesus died at 3pm the afternoon before. He was laid in his tomb, previous to the onset of that day's natural twilight. The lambs had to be slaughtered at the twilight of 13-14 (The Day of Preparation), in order to be eaten during the night of Nisan 14. Otherwise, if slaughtered on the twilight of Nisan14-15, the lamb would have been eaten on Nisan 15. Although you rightly claim, "If as you stated there is no evidence that Jesus left any specified date and time to hold the Memorial then the matter of partaking is left up to the conscience of the individual partaking."...... I have also said it is up to each partaker. But I must personally rely upon what scripture conveys... Paul referred to the timing of the Memorial, at 1Cor.11:25-26. He referred to a specific "cup" and a specific "bread". He referred to the emblems, which Christ shared with his disciples. When did that originally occur? Was it on the Passover Sabbath? Was it Nisan 14? No to both. It was the day before, on the Day of Preparation... when all the Passover lambs were also to be sacrificed as that day began to evaporate. Reason and scripture dictates, that this was the specific "date" when the original partakers originally partook, and logically, the time Paul referred to as to when the annual anniversary would occur, to partake of that specific bread and cup (1Cor.11:26). When Jesus said, "Do this in memory of me" (Luke22:19); He said it on Nisan 13. If your own reasoning concludes that an anniversary should be celebrated the day after the original event, because a previous covenant was celebrated a day later, than your reasoning differs with mine. I do not judge you or those who think like you. I simply offered (at the link) an explanation for why I had decided to partake on the Day of Preparation, for the sake of those who had requested to partake with me. I needed to tell those who wished to partake with me, my decision... Did I not? How else could we partake together? And since my decision differed from the norm, would it not be inconsiderate to set an unexpected date, without an explanation? For anyone whose conscience disagreed with my decision, they could then know to make other arrangements. I clearly stated in the link above, that in light of 1Cor.5:7, I do not take a dogmatic approach, nor judge another, as to whether they choose to partake on the Jewish Passover (which date, commemorates a dead covenant), nor do I judge those who choose to partake on the date when Jesus and his disciples inaugurated the NEW Covenant (Heb.8:7). I choose to be identified with the New Covenant and its original Memorial, and not the Old Covenant foreshadowed by Moses and Egypt. The saving blood of God's new Lamb fulfills that which the literal Passover lambs only hinted at. I wish to embrace that fulfillment, over keeping the Jewish law (Gal.4:9-11; 2:21). In fact, when the Jews celebrated the Passover after nightfall (at midnight) at the start of Nisan 14 33CE, it was a futile act. They had already condemned and executed the previous afternoon, their only real hope... the fulfillment of God's "Passover" and salvation of the "firstborn" from the Destroyer (Heb.11:28; 12:23; Luke10:20). Why would we who have been set free by Christ, want to continue to imitate the timing of those hypocrites, who failed their time of inspection? From Christ's death on Nisan 13 onward, the Jewish Passover is futility. You stated, "As such there is no impropriety associated with continuing the practice of observing on Nissan 14th. In fact it supports scripture and the gospel accounts to do just that." It would be considerate when writing to someone who wishes to be guided by scripture, to provide the scriptures you refer to at the time of your assertion. You also state: "We know from scripture that Jesus was killed on the same day that the other Passover victims were being killed"... This is correct, and it was Nisan 13... The Day of Preparation, which ran from twilight of Nisan12-13 to twilight of Nisan 13-14. Jesus both conducted the Memorial and died, during that Jewish day of Nisan 13. You continue: "and according to the Law of Moses this could have only occurred on the 14th of the month."... No, according to Moses, the eating of the Lamb and the Passover by the Destroyer, occurred on Nisan 14... not the slaughter of the lambs, nor the other preparations, which were to be completed by nightfall on the Day of Preparation (Nisan 13), when the twilight of Nisan 14, began. Jesus died at 3pm, on Nisan 13. The Passover lambs were to be slaughtered before nightfall that same day. You continue... "We can’t change the order of events to support his last supper at the expense of his death."... That is correct. But since the Jewish day is from sundown to sundown, Christ instituted the Memorial, and died, on the same day... the day of Preparation, on Nisan 13. He had the supper after sundown, and died before the next sundown, and before the start of Nisan 14 (Luke 23:52-56). You state: "His death as a sacrificial offering had to conform to the sacrificial system otherwise it could not be accepted as payment or atonement." In fact, Jesus stated repeatedly, that he matured to become no part of the system you speak of, as he expects his followers to be no part. In fact, he exposed and ultimately destroyed that "world"/"system", for the sake of Truth (Luke21:5-6; Matt.23:38-39; John2:18-21; 1Cor.12:27; Eph.2:6,20-22). I don't know where you get the idea that atoning sacrifices can only be validly offered on Nisan 14, but the scriptures disagree. Blood is needed for forgiveness (Heb.9:22). But such sacrifices for sin occurred on many days (Lev.17:11; 1:2,4), just as our own sacrifice for sins comes before God, irrespective of the date (Phil.3:10; Rom.6:5; Rev.6:9; 7:14; 6:11; Zech.11:4; Mark 8:35). These verses speak of a New Covenant that requires a sharing in the blood and sacrifice of Christ, irrespective of the literal date... not of a dead and empty ritual which reflects a lost promise, due to unfaithfulness (Matt.21:43). Christ has already fulfilled the Law... not by a date, but by his blood. If you regard that blood as invalid because it was shed on the Day of Preparation, then I have no response, other than to say that you are guilty of your own accusation against me... "According to your account this never happened and God to date has not kept his word." On the contrary, I acknowledge what Christ accomplished, and when he accomplished it according to scripture. It is you who deem that sacrifice as invalid, because it was not on Nisan 14. Why do you believe that God requires us to respect the literal timing of a covenant that has been replaced since Nisan13, 33CE, rather than respecting when Jesus established a New Covenant, by his Last Supper and Death? Please send me the scriptures that lead your thoughts in this way. You state: "Jesus remained under law and the law remained in effect until his death, in order to fulfill the law he had to complete the law first." And what was the Law, which Jesus fulfilled? Was it the Jewish Law? Did he live subservient to the Jewish Law? Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt.22:37-40). (Rom.13:10; Gal.5:14) See Matt.12:2,10,22,13-14; John5:10-11; etc. Jesus fulfilled the Law (John10:11; 15:10; 14:31) and so must we (1John3:16; John13:34-35), but as is seen from the above scriptures, Jesus and his apostles rightly lived according to greater truths. You state: "the law and the temple arrangement originated with God and he is not above his own law. " God's laws were not for God, but for us to be taught by them (Mark2:27; Matt.19:8). Jesus was Lord of the Sabbath. He was over it, and went beyond it's lessons to a sinful nation (Matt.12:2,5-8). His disciples followed that example. You state; "God’s own righteousness would demand that he work within the confines of his own system to provide atonement for mankind. " God keeps His promises, and concerning the seed promised to Abraham, as well as the Passover Lamb (the Jewish festival of Passover lasted a week), God kept His promises. They were fulfilled. But do not confuse God's promises with the embellished system created by the Jews, or God's shepherding staff of Laws to guide His nation, as an obligation for God to follow. He condescended to deal with mankind and their sinful state (Ps.113:5-6; 8:4) when providing the moral guidance they needed. His ways are above all the ways of mankind (Isa.55:9), including the guidance necessary for an unruly people who needed regulation. Do not make the moral deficit of such a people and their need for discipline, into the image of God. If you believe that Christ's sacrifice was "illegitimate" because he both died and commemorated his death on the Day of Preparation... your contention is not with me, but with God. Again, if you interpret the timing of Mark14:12; 15:42-43; Matt.26:17; John19:14,31,42 in a different way than I do, please explain, and include the scriptural backing, so that I may benefit. Please keep in mind that all Jewish days ran from sundown to sundown, including the Day of Preparation and the Passover Sabbath. The Jewish twilight was what we ascribe to sunrise, regarding the start of a new day. It is also notable, that according to the Jewish method of arriving at Nisan 14 (Spring equinox and the previous new moon), "Jehovah's Witnesses" partook this year, on Nisan 15. We are told at Mal.3:1-3, (Zech.13:9) that it is not "Jehovah's Witnesses" that God's refinement is directed toward at Christ's arrival. He comes to purify his own priesthood (Rev.3:19). If our beliefs are accurately based upon scripture (Matt.7:24; 1Cor.3:11-15), our fire-resistant faith will not perish (2Pet.3:10-12), nor the teachings we have sourced in God's Word (John15:16; Rom.3:4; Matt.12:37). We all have been defiled by the demonic exhalations of the wicked steward (Rev.2:20; 17:2; 1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-16)... becoming drunk on that harlot's wine. We all need to obey Christ, and wake up (Matt.25:5-7; Mark13:33). Once we do, we can either "buy from those who sell" (Matt.25:9-10; Rev.13:17) and become their branded slaves (Rev.13:16; Isa.44:20; Col.2:8; Rev.13:10; 17:5)... Or return to God and His Word, "buy" from Him (Isa.55:1-2; Rev.3:18), and be marked as His slaves (Deut.11:18; Rev.7:3; 14:1; 22:4-5). Now is the time of separation and harvest, just as it was among the Jews of the first century. We can celebrate the Passover when they impotently did, or on the day that Christ memorialized his death and died, according to his request (Luke22:19; 1Cor.11:23-24,26). The Memorial - When? - http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-memorial-when.html

Zech. 7:8-14, NWT: The word of Jehovah again came to Zech·a·riʹah, saying: “This is what Jehovah of armies says, ‘Judge with true justice and deal with one another in loyal love and mercy. Do not defraud the widow or the fatherless child, the foreigner or the poor; and do not scheme evil against one another in your hearts.’ But they kept refusing to pay attention, and they stubbornly turned their backs, and they stopped up their ears so as not to hear. They made their heart like a diamond and would not obey the law and the words that Jehovah of armies sent by his spirit through the former prophets. So there came great indignation from Jehovah of armies.” “‘Just as they did not listen when I called, so I would not listen when they called,’ says Jehovah of armies. ‘And I scattered them with a storm wind throughout all the nations that they had not known, and the land was left desolate behind them, with no one passing through or returning; for they turned the desirable land into an object of horror.’” Jer 51:6; Rev 18:4-8

You can retract the “like” you put under my comment, you know. Here’s another scripture (that you may not read) Gen 11:4 So…you can’t read the scriptures because they were typed by an “apostate’s” hand? The scriptures were a response to the twinkle I see in your eye concerning the power, feats, and display of the organization. You are bought and sold on what you physically see, forgetting that nothing can be built for God (as if he needed anything) Acts 17:24,25 I was already on the downward spiral while submitting myself to a false priesthood, a false sense of security, and a GB who, although they have admitted that Christ will not proclaim any anointed one as faithful and discreet until he returns, (2013) they still call themselves such, and have convinced 8 million people of this. It is now that I can raise my head and ask the Father and Christ to help me straighten up and fly right. ? "Does she think someone did her dirty long ago?" I believe you should as God and Christ if men are doing something “dirty” to God’s holy priesthood. “He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people.” Dan 8:24 "The man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, lifted his right hand and his left hand toward heaven, and I heard him swear by him who lives forever, saying, “It will be for a time, times and half a time.[a] When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed.” Dan 12:7 Here is an example of this: "They (anointed ones) feel a bond of unity with their brothers and sisters as members of Christ’s body." Wt 2006 NOW IT IS, “Anointed Christians do not feel that they should spend time only with other anointed ones, as if they were members of a club. They do not try to find other anointed ones so that they can talk about being anointed or meet in groups to study the Bible.” 1/2016 So, Tom, even though anointed ones may feel a bond of unity with their brothers, they may not act upon it, not because Christ who is their Head says so, but because men have enforced ridiculous and unrighteous rules. “When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed.” Do you know what happens next?

“The "thousand years" is a symbol, for how God blesses the kingship of each servant (Isa.60:22). Christ is the foremost king and servant of God. He is Lord of the Sabbath "Day" (Matt.12:8; 2Pet.3:8). That "Day" of Christ's "thousand year" growth of his kingdom (Matt.13:31-32), started in the first century. Jesus said for this he was born and came into the "earth"... to bear witness to the truth. That was the power of his "kingdom" (John18:37). Stephen saw Jesus at God's right hand, as Jesus himself claimed to be (Acts7:56; Luke22:69). The Bible tells us why he becomes God's "right hand" (Ps.110:1; Acts2:35-36)... to subdue all the enemies of truth. Do we have proof, that this sitting at God's right hand, is his actual ruling in his thousand year kingdom? Yes. Please examine carefully, 1Cor.15:25: "For ***he must reign until*** he has put all his enemies under his feet.". Do you see from this last scripture, that Jesus is reigning while his enemies are being subdued? -- but the Bible tells us of a time, when Jesus is no longer subduing his enemies (The Great Tribulation), because his Temple is being "trampled by Gentiles", the heavenly illuminaries "sun", "moon", and "stars" are darkened, and "the power of the holy ones is brought to nothing" (Dan.12:7; 7:25; 8:13; 11:16,22,31-37; 2Thess.2:4; Rev.11:2; 13:7,10; Luke21:24) due to Satan's release, the outpouring of demonic spirits, lying signs, and wonders; and the release of wormwood and her locust scorpion army from the abyss. That is the hour in which Michael must stand up for his people (Dan.12:1; Rev.12:7) to save the remnant (the Great Crowd), and bring the demonic powers of the man-of-lawlessness (the Wild Beast), and the false prophet (last Harlot) and Satan himself, to nothing (2Thess.2:8; Rev.20:9-10; Dan.8:24-25). Yes, the thousand years have come and gone. We are in the Great Tribulation and Armageddon since Satan's release (Rev.20:7-8) and his giving the key to the abyss, to the fallen star, wormwood (Rev.8:10-11; 9:1-3,11).” Pearl Doxsey What is the Thousand Years?

I feel sorry for you, Allen. You are unaware of what your own organization teaches, which I presented to you above. Incredibly, you not only slander those on the outside of Watchtower walls, but those on the inside. Absolutely no one is right but yourself….and the GB. “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Matt 23:12

If anything, Tom, I appreciate your addressing me personally. John 3:12; John 18:36; Gal 4:3; Matt 6:19-21; Col 3:1,2; Col 2:8; 1 Cor 2:14; 2 Cor 11:3,4

Tom, you do know that Isa 52:11 is quoted by Paul in 2 Cor 6:16-18 of which I listed previously and refers to the Temple, God’s priesthood – right? I will give you the benefit of the doubt and say you didn’t realize it, not that you had reprehensible motives. Isa 52:1 gives us even further insight as to why these priests must “come out” and quit touching the unclean thing. “Awake, awake! Put on your strength, O Zion; Put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city! For the uncircumcised and the unclean Shall no longer come to you.” Isa 52:1 Shake yourself from the dust, arise; Sit down, O Jerusalem! Loose yourself from the bonds of your neck, O captive daughter of Zion! Isa 52:2 “For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.” Rom 2:28,29 Paul is speaking of spiritual Israel, the Temple - the anointed ones. In verse 1 of Isa 52, the “uncircumcised” are spiritual “Gentiles” and is the elder body “representing” the royal priesthood, known scripturally as the “disgusting thing standing in the holy place”. Matt 24:15 Verse 2 indicates this Temple/priesthood must “obey” under all circumstances, the elder body, thus they are ‘chained’. “Now therefore, what have I here,” says the Lord, “That My people are taken away for nothing? Those who rule over them Make them wail,” says the Lord, “And My name is blasphemed continually every day. 6 Therefore My people shall know My name; Therefore they shall know in that day That I am He who speaks: ‘Behold, it is I.’” Isa 52:5,6 If the organization was truly “earthly Zion”, God’ priesthood would be guiding the sheep righteously as He intended, with his true priesthood. Both male and female anointed ones would teach/guide/comfort as one body under Christ and in Christ’s love. Does any JW realize that under such circumstances, the ARC would not be an issue? Gal 3:28 “Your watchmen shall lift up their voices, With their voices they shall sing together; For they shall see eye to eye When the Lord brings back Zion. 9 Break forth into joy, sing together, You waste places of Jerusalem! For the Lord has comforted His people, He has redeemed Jerusalem. 10 The Lord has made bare His holy arm In the eyes of all the nations; And all the ends of the earth shall see The salvation of our God.” Isa 52:8-10 Matt 24:15-22

If you seek for it as for hid treasure… Here is what the Watchtower says about 1 Cor 6:19 One who is an anointed member of the Christian congregation, the body of Christ, and who commits fornication is taking a member of the Christ away and making that one a member of a harlot. Any such Christian committing fornication is bringing in moral defilement and is also “sinning against his own [fleshly] body.” He is putting himself in peril of being removed from the body of Christ, the temple organization, and is exposing himself to the danger of loathsome diseases. (1Co 6:13, 15-20; Pr 7:1-27) He may be ‘handed over by the congregation to Satan for the destruction of the flesh.’—1Co 5:5. One who is a member of the body of Christ, as well as other dedicated persons who are associated with these spiritually begotten body members, must avoid not only physical fornication but also spiritual fornication. The Scriptures call one who has friendship with the world an ‘adulteress.’ (Jas 4:4) Jesus said of his disciples: “They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.” (Joh 17:16) Therefore, Jesus is careful that those who make up the members of his body are clean morally and spiritually. (Eph 5:26, 27) They are said to have their “bodies bathed with clean water.” (Heb 10:22) it-1 pp. 348-350

And I will use the Watchtower, because even though their next article about the Body of Christ will be completely different, they do reveal truth at times. “Those with an earthly hope discern that they themselves are not anointed members of the body of Christ, nor are they in the new covenant that Jehovah made with those who will rule with Jesus Christ. They feel a bond of unity with their brothers and sisters as members of Christ’s body. Gathering Things in At 1 Corinthians 10:16, 17, Paul, in discussing the particular import of the bread for spirit-anointed brothers of Christ, mentioned “body” in a special sense. He said: “The loaf which we break, is it not a sharing in the body of the Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, although many, are one body, for we are all partaking of that one loaf.” When anointed Christians partake of the Memorial bread, they declare their unity within the congregation of anointed ones, which is like a body with Christ as the Head.—Matthew 23:10; 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13, 18. Heaven and Things on Earth The Watchtower (2006) ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” Mark 10:7-9 Are two people that marry literally one flesh? "We have identified the Bridegroom, but who is his bride? She is a composite bride made up of the members of the congregation headed by Jesus Christ. (Read Ephesians 5:23, 24.) They will become a part of Christ’s Messianic Kingdom. (Luke 12:32) These 144,000 spirit-anointed Christians “keep following the Lamb no matter where he goes.” (Rev. 14:1-4) They become “the Lamb’s wife” and reside with him in his heavenly abode.—Rev. 21:9; John 14:2, 3. Wt 14/2/15 “ I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.” 2 Cor 11:2 “Who are the 144,000? John explains that they “have [Jesus’] name and the name of his Father written on their foreheads.” And he adds: “These are the ones who keep following the Lamb [that is, Jesus] no matter where he goes. These were bought from among mankind.” Bhs chapter 8 “These spirit-begotten, anointed brothers of Christ become underpriests of the High Priest, “a royal priesthood.” They become the “bride” of Christ, and are the body of persons whom Christ takes into a covenant for the Kingdom, to rule with Him.” It1 pges 520-525 “Those who become members of the body of Christ are “fellow citizens of the holy ones and are members of the household of God.” (Eph 2:19) They are likened to a holy temple of living stones for Jehovah and constitute “a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession.” (1Pe 2:5, 9) They must cleanse themselves of “every defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in God’s fear.” (2Co 7:1) If a Christian practices habits that defile or damage his fleshly body, or make it filthy or unclean, or if he goes contrary to the Bible in doctrine or morals, he does not love or fear God and is turning away from holiness. One cannot carry on uncleanness and remain holy. it-1 pp. 1127-1131 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies "What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them,and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”] 17 Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate,says the Lord.Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”] 18 And, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters,says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Cor 6:16-18 So, tell me your questions again? I don’t know how you would refute any of this since it comes straight from the Watchtower and the bible. A note to Librarian – thank you for your tolerance.

Truly, I believe you are trying to understand what I’m talking about as you reason on my words, albeit wrongly. If only you would stop shooting the messenger. “Both provenience, are mutually exclusive. If you “hate” a corporation, then you “hate” the people inside.” This isn’t true, because I have many past friends in the organization that I love. I came out of there myself. The “image” of the corporation is regarded as “holy” – “spirit-directed”. Rev 13:15 This is blasphemy to God as is indicated in the Wt. quote I presented. It has become one’s salvation – no one on the outside of those walls are destined, according to teaching, to be in line for everlasting life. This is what I hate, the untruth, the lie. Everlasting life comes only through Christ. The Temple of God is his priesthood within the Body of Christ. Because of the result of oppression over the anointed to obey a false priesthood, (“the elder body represent the royal priesthood”) I also hate this, as it blasphemes God’s direction. Matt 24:15,16; Luke 21:24; Dan 7:19; 8:10; Rev 11:2 It has left the anointed ones – God’s own priesthood - voiceless. Should that not concern every JW who desires to see the Kingdom come, who realize they are the ones along with Christ who work as to bring life to the rest of mankind? Rev 22:1-5; 3:12 Since I have been out of the organization and connected with other anointed ones, Holy Spirit has freely blessed these ones to have a voice in harmony with truth in Christ. It doesn’t take 7 men and a corporation to get the word of truth out. God’s Spirit is stronger than men. Isa 55:1-11 Think about this, in the early temple arrangement, was anyone allowed to represent or replace God’s priesthood? Do you remember the scriptures I posted about this very thing under “Why such blatant hypocrisy?” under Controversial posts? The evidence lies in the scriptures. Why would God change his mind and allow men to do things as they please by appointing their own false priesthood which has gotten them in a heap of trouble, and which will not be healed by a band aid? Jer 6:14; 8:22 Instead of acknowledging God’s plan of worshiping only in spirit and in truth, the organization has instigated its own ideas which they call ordained by God – a “spirit-directed organization”. This is a lie, which I hate. As I have said in the post mentioned above, it is an operation of error that was prophesied to occur in the last days. 2 Thess 2:1-12 I hate the idol, Allen, and the oppression of God’s chosen people, besides all those who must obey and work with their hands to please men. Rev 11:1-3 The call to “come out of her, my people” is the call to leave the sins of the organization behind and listen completely to Christ, as God directed us to do. Rev 18:4-8 There, we receive refinement from sins; there we conclude the true understanding of why the organization exists. Rev 3:18; chapter 13 And it is there that the Marriage feast of Christ and his Bride takes place – not in a harbor of sin, confusion, errors, oppression, hatred for those who leave the organization, and a wicked slave that demands all to obey even when they err. Rev 12:14; Luke 17:31-37; Matt 24:48-51 If I hated you, Allen, or anyone here, I wouldn’t take so much time to try and explain using scriptures, the genuine truth. If someone hates another, they walk away from them, possibly calling them every name in the book. Jesus was marked as a rebel by the Jews, yet he kept speaking to them. Is it any different for those in Christ who try their earnest to represent his truths to their brothers in the organization? Luke 21:12; John 15:20 God Saves Israel - http://godsavesisrael.blogspot.com/2012/12/godsaves-israel.html?m=0