Witness

Thank you, Melinda. At least in this one, reference to one's intellect is still intact. It is a very beautiful song.

Janice, Because this is a parable, the meaning behind “unrighteous riches” is not that of material possessions that the steward gained by his use of “practical wisdom”, but it is the lust for power and rulership over those of God’s House, those who belong to the Master, Jesus Christ; literally, the anointed Body of Christ. The meaning of unrighteous riches can be seen in 1 Cor 4:8 – “You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you!” This 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. Each anointed in God’s house owe the Master a debt. 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”. 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 Jesus requires each servant of his house to give obedience to him only, not to one who thrives on “unrighteous riches”, who assumes the Master’s belongings are in his control. John 14:23,15; 8:51; 15:10; 1 John 2:5 It is true that when one exercises power and authority over others, material, worldly wealth come along with it. Ezek 16:14,15; Jer 2:20; Rev 2:21; 17:4; 18:3,7,12-14 But never did Jesus give the indication that material wealth could gain one advantage into the Kingdom. We know his entire message was to follow him, leaving behind anyone and anything, for is name’s sake. By doing so, he promised those would receive “a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life”. Matt 19:29 “And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” Matt 19:16-24 Jesus’ parable of the steward in Luke 16:1-15 and the wicked slave in Matt 18 harmonize in giving a clear picture of the present day situation of undue authority over God’s house by the self-proposed “faithful and discreet slave”, assuming command through the use of tyrannical “unrighteous riches”. The Steward of This System of Things, Luke 16:1-15

Yes, I have heard Stephen Lett use this scripture in his rather long presentation on the woes of the organization needing contributions in May, 2015. “We in no way want to be categorized with other organization, religious or otherwise that coerce their supporters to donate.“ Song 50 is proof that coercion can be quite subtle. The entire chapter of Proverbs 3 is about wisdom – the remembrance of God’s laws, writing them on the tablet of the heart and not trusting in our own understanding, which takes the power and discernment of the mind. (Deut 6:5) Our intellect is our strength in perceiving, understanding, and reasoning on God’s laws when we set our minds on the spirit of Christ, walking in truth. Ps 86:11; 3 John 1:4 In order to serve God fully, we adopt the mind of Christ, placing his laws before us. 1 Cor 2:16; Heb 10:16; 1 Pet 4:1 If Prov 3:9 was referring to literal possessions, firstfruits out of our own pocket, when the entire chapter speaks of obtaining wisdom that brings life, how do we discern the words following Prov 3:9, that say: Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding; For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who retain her. Prov 3:13-18 I doubt you believe that by offering monetary and material possessions to the organization, that your literal storehouse on this earth will be filled and your literal vat with new wine. Joel 2:24; 3:13 “Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds?” Luke 12:24 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matt 6:33 Matt 6:20,21 - “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” If one’s treasure is the organization, where one’s heart lies; then yes, one will give materially to it. Rev 9:20; James 5:3 Storing up treasures in heaven is the taking in of wisdom from the tree of life, Jesus Christ. Rev 3:17,18 ; Prov 25:11 As the words in Prov 3:9 are spiritual, signifying the blessings of the Kingdom, (Isa 55:1-5) so is the term “firstfruits”. Jer 2:3 - Israel was holiness to the Lord, The firstfruits of His increase. All that devour him will offend; Disaster will come upon them,” says the Lord.’” James 1:18 - Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures. 1 Cor 15:20-26 - “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming. Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death” John 1:13 - who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. These are the anointed ones, who follow Christ closely by offering up their lives in the same way as Christ. Rev 14:4,5 - “ These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God.” This offering to God of firstfruits under the New Covenant produces both seed and the bread of “wisdom” to others. John 12:24,25; Rom 6:5,3,4; 1 Cor 15:36-38; 2 Cor 9:10 Hos 10:12 They are the first of the harvest, with more “children” of God to follow. 1 Tim 2:3,4; 4:10; John 5:24; 4:36; Matt 10:40,41; 1 John 2:2; John 3:16; Acts 26:18; 20:32; Col 1:6,10; Rom 8:17 Since Christ came to the earth, and our worship made to God is through our whole spiritual heart, spiritual soul, and spiritual mind, material contributions specified as “firstfruits”, to an earthly organization are contradictory to Christ’s teachings. 2 Cor 2:17 - Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God. 1 Cor 2:6 - We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. Godliness cannot be bought with material possessions in any form. Rom 8:5-7 - For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. It may seem a little thing, Eoin Joyce, by picking away at this discrepancy, but by eliminating the phrase in the song, “take my mind that I may serve, Fully, Lord, without reserve” and inserting “take my silver and my gold, Nothing, Lord, would I withhold”, the carnal mind takes precedence over the spiritual, as your teachers, the GB, have proven. The spiritual food we receive from an anointed one should reflect whole souled, the words of Christ. Matt 12:33 1 Tim 6:3-5 - “If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, (Matt 22:37) and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.” If one serves Christ and sees his neighbor in need, we give directly to them; our possessions are not lost within a hierarchy that chooses where it goes. The organization is materially rich, while thousands of its members live at or below the poverty line. Dishonest Gain

It is all over the internet. The changes made to the old “Song 58” and rendered into the new “Song 50” are found here. The words, “take my mind that I may serve, fully Lord without reserve” have been eliminated. Does anyone see why? What has been added into the new song is, “take my silver and my gold. Nothing, Lord, would I withhold”. This song is based on Matt 22:37 - "Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’" Since serving God with our mind is now removed in the new song, what does this tell us? Is it more important to serve God with our money, as if that is part of whole-souled worship? “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord]. Matt 6:24 AMP

Hi Jay Witness, I am sorry for your confusion; I, too had similar thoughts. The scriptures helped me realize that neither God nor Christ are the Destroyers, as destruction comes at the hands of Satan. Although the WT teaches the Destroyer is Jesus; scripture proves this is a lie (John 14:6). Isa 33:1; Rev 9:11; Job 26:6; 1 Cor 10:10; Exod 12:23; Prov 17:11; Ps 17:3,4; Heb 11:28 Woe to you, destroyer, you who have not been destroyed! Woe to you, betrayer, you who have not been betrayed! When you stop destroying, you will be destroyed; when you stop betraying, you will be betrayed. Isa 33:1 Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” John 5:39,40 Ps 36:9 - For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light. Executing judgment is the revealing of truth by means of purifying “fire”. 2 Pet 3:7,10,12; Isa 66:15; Mal 4:1; Matt 13:30 This is not a judgment made by literal fire, Jer 23:29; Rev 2:27; 12:5; Ps 2:9; Heb 12:29; Jer 5:14; Hosea 6:5; Rev 11:3,5; Matt 3:11 “I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!” Luke 12:49 The harvest period and the separation of wheat and weeds is based on the acceptance of pure truth against lies. When we are confronted with both, we are either cleansed of lies through humility and our desire to please our Father and His Son, or we are condemned through their acceptance. John 12:48; 1 Corr 3:13; 1 Pet 1:7; 2 Thess 1:7; Matt 25:31,32 We understand this spiritual analogy when looking at the “two edged sword” of Christ’s in Rev 1:16; 19:15,21 Eph.6:17 – And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God Heb.4:12 – For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (2Cor.10:4; 1Tim.1:18; 2Tim.2:3; Rev.19:11,14; 17:14) It is our own response to truth or lies and who we surrender to, that causes our destruction. Jesus said narrow is the road; meaning truth takes effort to find and follow, in repentance. God’s standards are not man’s standards, which we easily forget as man formulates his own set of standards. Just as easily, we assume we understand God’s justice. The Tribulation we face is our choice of life in Christ, or death at the hands of Satan. God “sends” a great tribulation that determines our place as wheat or weeds. 2 Thess 2:11 But for those who stand firm on the narrow road can be assured of life, because “as it is written” - “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Cor 2:9 Who is to Blame?

I believe Jay Witness may be reacting to this, since it is promoted by the GB and the organization as a whole, that God blesses each effort made by the organization. Two examples below: Geoffrey Jackson “It’s interesting when we think about the production of this [Bible] we truly have seen Jehovah’s hand in helping the project. Just one example. The brothers in the Wallkill printery mentioned to us that normally the worst time of the year to print Bibles is summertime, because of the humidity, the heat. Oftentimes they have to stop the presses. But they told us this year when they had to do a lot of extra overtime to get these Bibles ready for us, and as you can see there’s one for each person here attending our program, this year there was no stoppage of Bible production! We had the mildest summer for many many years and we thank Jehovah for that.” On the island of Yap, Travis Brooks said, no village chief was willing to sell any of their sand for a kingdom hall construction project. Along comes a typhoon, taking a “turn just before it hit the island and just grazed it.”, according to the construction overseer. No damage to the kingdom hall was incurred. “I have some other good news, I just got call from the village chiefs. Apparently the storm surge has washed up a bunch of sand over their roads and they had no way of removing it. So they said, we have plenty of sand, can you come and help us get rid of it." Brooks said, “So we ended up having enough sand for the rest of the project. There will be no obstacle that can be put before you that you can’t overcome. Jehovah’s blessing is the most important thing we can have on our projects from the start to the finish." Isn’t it ironic that God may bless these obstacles by controlling the weather to the organization’s benefit, but legal actions must be taken to remediate a situation the organization bought into? Is this how God produces blessings for a major project of apparently he is apparently backing? Of course the county revealed before purchase the condition of the land, since another new “neighbor” had their proposal in place to remediate. An organization with so many lawyers would certainly take great care in exposing any faults of the land before purchase. So, wouldn’t it be rather disingenuous for the organization to firstly, expound on God’s blessings which were so highly esteemed upon initiation of this project, to later pursue remediation for a situation they knowingly bought into? Mark Sanderson “The Governing Body is convinced that Jehovah is directing that the World Headquarters be moved to Warwick. We’re absolutely convinced of that.” Richard Devine “We went to the public hearing fully expecting to be turned down, however, to our surprise, within 15 minutes of the start of the meeting the town board voted to approve our project. When the approval came through, we knew it was only by Jehovah’s spirit that that happened.” Oct 2011 – The Brooklyn Eagle “Watchtower’s Move to Warwick? ‘Not Any Time Soon’ “The Town of Warwick will then have to review it, approve it and issue the required special-use permit. Only then can construction — as well as remediation — begin. So the move will likely be years away, according to Devine. The site will have to be remediated. Last year, Devine described it as originally built 50 years ago for the International Nickel Co. (now known as INCO) for its research and development division. The company closed that division in 1983.” The comment that is no longer here, may not one based on rumor after all. Eoin Joyce, you are right in many ways about the conditions that we live under. It is the double standard coming out of the GB and Watchtower mouth that causes questions like what Jay Witness posed. God is a God of light, not doublespeak originating in darkness. Matt 23:25-28 “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. 4 Indeed the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaot 5 You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned, you have murdered (spiritually considered dead through disfellowshipping) the just; he does not resist you.” Who is the Man of Lawlessness? http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/11/i-have-received-many-letters-which.html

I did understand what you said, it is the Greek to the English that I am hoping to understand. English is my native language, not Greek. Thus obeying those who “rule over you”, must be understood differently than, “obey God as ruler rather than men”, wouldn’t you think? Acts 5:29 It is this “fine connotation” that must be understood – who we obey and how, which I have earlier explained. I don’t believe I did dismiss Gamaliel’s words, since I stated they were true; the connotation can't be used as a crutch to “wait on Jehovah”. We can't sit back and wait to see what happens to those who have "taken the lead", men at fault and under the guise of God's priesthood, and anointed ones acting as prophets, yet claiming to be uninspired; but we ourselves are to struggle to get in through the "narrow door" of truth. This is out of love, faith and respect for not only God's righteous standards, but for His Son's. Those faithful ones who were appointed by God give us a clear understanding of this. I repeat: “Since God is unchanging, he certainly wouldn’t change to justify the Watchtower if it has transgressed his decrees. When it came to transgressions made against God’s Temple, he let the people know about it, and does so today. Rev 11:2; Eze 44:6-9; 2 Chron 23:6; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Dan 11:31; 8:11; Matt 24:15,16; Mark 13:14” And from the words given by God to His prophet: Thus says the Lord of hosts, “Do not listen to the words of the prophets who are prophesying to you. They are leading you into futility; They speak a vision of their own imagination, Not from the mouth of the Lord. “They keep saying to those who despise Me, ‘The Lord has said, “You will have peace”’; And as for everyone who walks in the stubbornness of his own heart, They say, ‘Calamity will not come upon you.’ “But who has stood in the council of the Lord, That he should see and hear His word? Who has given heed to His word and listened? “Behold, the storm of the Lord has gone forth in wrath, Even a whirling tempest; It will swirl down on the head of the wicked. “The anger of the Lord will not turn back Until He has performed and carried out the purposes of His heart; In the last days you will clearly understand it. “I did not send these prophets, But they ran. I did not speak to them, But they prophesied. “But if they had stood in My council, Then they would have announced My words to My people, And would have turned them back from their evil way And from the evil of their deeds. “Am I a God who is near,” declares the Lord, “And not a God far off? “Can a man hide himself in hiding places So I do not see him?” declares the Lord. “Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” declares the Lord. “I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy falsely in My name, saying, ‘I had a dream, I had a dream!’ How long? Is there anything in the hearts of the prophets who prophesy falsehood, even these prophets of the deception of their own heart, who intend to make My people forget My name by their dreams which they relate to one another, just as their fathers forgot My name because of Baal? The prophet who has a dream may relate his dream, but let him who has My word speak My word in truth. What does straw have in common with grain?” declares the Lord. “Is not My word like fire?” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer which shatters a rock? Therefore behold, I am against the prophets,” declares the Lord, “who steal My words from each other. 31 Behold, I am against the prophets,” declares the Lord, “who use their tongues and declare, ‘The Lord declares.’ Behold, I am against those who have prophesied false dreams,” declares the Lord, “and related them and led My people astray by their falsehoods and reckless boasting; yet I did not send them or command them, nor do they furnish this people the slightest benefit,” declares the Lord. “Now when this people or the prophet or a priest asks you saying, ‘What is the oracle of the Lord?’ then you shall say to them, ‘What oracle?’ The Lord declares, ‘I will abandon you.’ Then as for the prophet or the priest or the people who say, ‘The oracle of the Lord,’ I will bring punishment upon that man and his household. Thus will each of you say to his neighbor and to his brother, ‘What has the Lord answered?’ or, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ For you will no longer remember the oracle of the Lord, because every man’s own word will become the oracle, and you have perverted the words of the living God, the Lord of hosts, our God. Thus you will say to that prophet, ‘What has the Lord answered you?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ For if you say, ‘The oracle of the Lord!’ surely thus says the Lord, ‘Because you said this word, “The oracle of the Lord!” I have also sent to you, saying, “You shall not say, ‘The oracle of the Lord!’”’ Therefore behold, I will surely forget you and cast you away from My presence, along with the city which I gave you and your fathers. I will put an everlasting reproach on you and an everlasting humiliation which will not be forgotten.” Jer 23:16-40 If God does not tolerate false prophesy, and the leading of His sheep down a crooked road of changing doctrine, why would we; especially if we proclaim our love for Him and His Son? Isa 59:8 Good day to you, sir.

Truly, I am very glad to hear you are being like a Beroean to find the reason behind the choice. We don’t stop at something as outlandish and visible as this, but continue in all teaching we receive from an anointed one, do we not? “The brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” Acts 17:10,11 They were testing carefully the words given them by Paul and Silas. (1 John 4:1) Each one of Christ’s brothers must be found true and purified (Rev 3:17,18), as they are the Temple that God himself is constructing, (2 Pet 3:5,6,7,11,13; Rev 12:10; 6:10,11; 14:1) a perfected “organization” of living stones to be placed in the Tabernacle of God. 1 Cor 15:50; 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16; Eph 2:20-21; Heb 11:10; Acts 7:48; Zech 4:9,10 It is not an “organization” that rises from a Satanic system (Job 14:4) and made by the hands of men (John 4:21-24; Matt 24:2; Isa 26:5; Job 5:11; Ezek 21:25-27; Luke 14:11), but comes down out of heaven in glory, from God. Rev 21:2-5; 22:3,4; Dan 2:44 Later in that same chapter of Acts, Paul had gone on to Athens, speaking to these men by saying, “The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’ Being then the children of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man. Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead.” Acts 17:24-31 God allows imperfections in men who are to teach in the truth of Christ, to be revealed by His Son, who judges the world, and in the time of God’s choosing. “For nothing is hidden, except to be revealed; nor has anything been secret, but that it would come to light.” Mark 4:22 (Job 28:11; Heb 4:13)

I am shaking my head in disbelief. JWs, have any of you researched this group? "Eye Salve" - http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/11/eye-salve-humility-repentance.html

If you care to see vivid documentation (actual paperwork) of misquotes of various sources used by the Watchtower, I suggest watching this video. Do you remember the incident involving the Awake Magazine, 1/15, misquoting Raman Singh? My quotes from the Watchtower are verbatim, as are Shiwii's, unlike a common practiced by the Watchtower. JW org - Lies, Misquotes and Deception Proverbs 28:25-27 - He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, But he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered. 26 He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But whoever walks wisely will be delivered. 27 He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he who hides his eyes will have many curses. 28 When the wicked arise, men hide themselves; But when they perish, the righteous increase. Allen, Christ's Kingdom cannot be held by anything man has created. John 4:21-24; Luke 17:20-23; John 18:36

Sigh. I know you get such satisfaction in your condescending attitude to all who are not JWs here, but do you notice they generally don’t repay in kind? According to the words above, an organization isn’t necessary to have a relationship with the Father. Would you agree? No, you can’t agree. Dedication has been churned up well with dedication to an organization. Allen, you can’t deny that your dedication to God is mixed with dedication to the Watchtower, as all of your words fall back on. Definition of dedication: “a feeling of very strong support for or loyalty to someone or something : the quality or state of being dedicated to a person, group, cause, etc.” “If we are to have Jehovah’s favor and blessing, we must support his organization and accept adjustments in our understanding of the Scriptures. Par. 15 All who remain loyal to Jehovah and his organization will have his continued blessing. Par. 16 From Are You Moving Ahead with Jehovah’s Organization? 5-2014 WT So tell me, which dedication to you choose? That outlined in the quotes above, or the quotes from this Watchtower? Our personal relationship with God is not based on any dedication to an organization, which is what the quote you felt the need to highlight carefully for my benefit, clearly brings out. God is the giver of life, period. We either accept or not. Luke 12:34 Isa 44:18

At the least, many will try to excuse this choice before others outside the organization, who may question it – a decision made by those known to be "guided" by Holy Spirit - "spirit-directed". http://search.audiomachine.com/albums/terminus-album/ “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” Eph 5:8-11 "He was granted power to give breath (contrast with John 20:22) to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed." Rev 13:15

Thank you, Ann, for revealing a hypocrisy that anyone the organization cannot dodge from or excuse. Hopefully it will make some sit up and take notice. Under “General Discussions”, Jay Witness posted a quote from the Awake: “The essence, the soul, of disco was shown to be free,“liberated” sexual expression….Satan is manipulating this world for his own purposes, shouldn’t we expect that he would also use the world’s entertainment in his efforts to turn people from true worship?” Awake 1979 Dec 22 p.20 “Never allow worldly music, videos, TV shows, books, associates, educators, or so-called experts to control your life." Wt 14/8/15 Mark my word, somehow many JWs will figure out a way to excuse the use of the GB’s choice to use this song by Audiomachine. http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/07/another-warning-letter.html

Hello Arauna, You are saying that everyone who leaves the organization is wicked, even if there is no sin committed; still, if one sins their judgment of being found “wicked” is up to Christ. Rom 14:10 What if one leaves simply because they desire to develop the pure qualities that God and Christ expect? Failed prophesy, slaving for earthly treasures, and slaving for men is not what Jesus or the apostles taught. “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us. Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward. “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.” Mark 9:38-42 Rom 12:2 tells us “not to conform to the pattern of this world”. The organization has admitted it is a hierarchy of power, a pattern we see clearly in Satan’s world. This scripture also says we are to be transformed by the “renewing of our mind”. Again, Paul speaks of this in Eph 4:20-25 “That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” Eph 4:20-25 If we renew our mind in Christ, we are breaking away from the earthly pattern of worship - "not on this mountain" or any other. John 4:21-24 In order to develop qualities pleasing to God, we give and serve Him with exclusive devotion – he is not an organization aligned in the same manner as all else in the world. “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything (an “earthly Zion”) in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me” Exod 20:4,5 And He has made no exception to accommodate an organization. You said, and which is very true, “Because the Christian personality is our identifying mark for survival when Armageddon arrives.” This is the identifying mark given you at baptism: “Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization?” Over 50 years ago, the Watchtower shed a little light on the truth: "A Christian, therefore, cannot be baptized in the name of the one actually doing the immersing or in the name of any man, nor in the name of any organization, but in the name of the Father, the Son and the holy spirit." Watchtower 1955 Jul 1 p.411 Wt 1966 10/1 pp 603-4 "We do not dedicate ourselves to a religion, nor to a man, nor to an organization. No, we dedicate ourselves to the Supreme Sovereign of the Universe, our Creator, Jehovah God himself. This makes dedication a very personal relationship between us and Jehovah." Shouldn’t we ask, why the change of teaching? Deut 11:18 Shouldn’t we also ask, who really are the potential wicked ones, those who desire to dedicate their lives exclusively to God and Christ, or those who serve an organization, teaching inconsistent, changing doctrine? Luke 12:1 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ Matt 22:36,37 No man has been given authority to judge one as “wicked” who desires to follow this teaching and the standards God has set in place. Many anointed ones and many sheep have left the organization to serve Christ and the Father exclusively, yet the organization readily marks them as “wicked”. Rev 13:16-18 Mark of the Beast

Allen, Why should any of us argue for any "religion", other than for God and Christ? Col 2:20-23

IF the elders don't listen to Christ let Him be the judge. IF a "disgusting thing" has been fabricated let God be the judge. Remember what Gamaliel told the Sanhedrin in Act 5:34-39. "...if this scheme or this work is from men, it will be overthrown; but if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. Otherwise, you may even be found fighters against God himself." I appreciate your opinion on the Greek Interlinear. I wish I could understand how although the Greek is a rich language, you said, “In Greek though there is no difference in the meaning however you may want to word it”. In my mind I’m trying to see a full spectrum of interpretation with one Greek word and its meaning, each time it is read. Yet, in the bible the same Greek word brings about a different use according to scripture. While there are most definitely fine connotations or wording in English, there also appears to be so with Greek. If I only could speak the language. How many times has the Greek word for worship been discussed and argued over when it concerns God, Christ and Satan? I know you don’t want an answer, Praeceptor, but I must clarify something. What you quoted from me, is pertaining to the anointed ones who permit a “wicked slave” to rule over them, even “beat” them if their thoughts are contrary to scripture; by the GB giving authority to the elders to“kill” them for rejecting doctrine, and organization, but also for their testimony of Christ. Matt 24:45-51; Rev 13:15. They receive a symbolic “beheading” as John the Baptist did for proclaiming Christ. Shunning and disfellowshipping is a cutting off of all communication and socialization, is it not? Mark 6:27; Rev 20:4; John 15:20; Matt 10:21,22; Luke 12:49-53; John 16:2; Heb 13:13; Matt 5:10,11 What Gamaliel said is true, but do we use this to support the idea that we “wait on Jehovah”? Gamaliel was not a prophet or an apostle. Since God is unchanging, he certainly wouldn’t change to justify the Watchtower if it has transgressed his decrees. When it came to transgressions made against God’s Temple, he let the people know about it, and does so today. Rev 11:2; Eze 44:6-9; 2 Chron 23:6; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Dan 11:31; 8:11; Matt 24:15,16; Mark 13:14 Always concerning idolatry, God let the people know it, and we realize they suffered for it, as in Moses’ day. (Isa chapter 2) “So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. Elijah went before the people and said, ‘How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.’ But the people said nothing.” 1 Kings 18:21 We know what happened after this powerful display that Elijah used to judge the hundreds of prophets that relied on Baal. 1 Kings 18:18-40 Although I have posted these before on this forum, it’s important to be reminded of the hypocrisy within the organization. WT ‘90 11/1 p. 26 "As Christians, we face up to similar challenges today. We cannot take part in any modern version of idolatry—be it worshipful gestures toward an image or symbol or the imputing of salvation to a person or an organization." Our Relative Subjection to the Superior Authorities Kingdom Ministry ’90/11 p. 1 Directing Bible Students to Jehovah’s Organization: "Bible students need to get acquainted with the organization of the “one flock” Jesus spoke about at John 10:16. They must appreciate that identifying themselves with Jehovah’s organization is essential to their salvation. (Rev. 7:9, 10, 15) Therefore, we should start directing our Bible students to the organization as soon as a Bible study is established." In the same month, out of the same mouth, comes two different understandings of salvation. Which opinion do you choose? Jer 23:16; Ezek 13:1-19; Matt 24:24; 1 Thess 5:3; Rev 3:18 If we support false, changing, hypocritical doctrine, God does not sort us out as worthy. Rev 18:4; 2 Cor 11:3,4; Rev 3:15-18 “The prophets prophesy falsely, the priests rule by their own authority, and my people love it this way. But what will you do in the end?” Jer 5:31

You have gone through a lot of effort, Allen. I did read it, and found it helpful, in ways other than what you were implying, I’m sure. Yes, 2 Peter 3 can be quite enlightening. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Pet 3:14-18 “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.” “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be” ws13 7/15 pp. 3-8 Previously, this journal has explained that in the first century, “this generation” mentioned at Matthew 24:34 meant “the contemporaneous generation of unbelieving Jews.” That explanation seemed reasonable because all other recorded uses that Jesus made of the term “generation” had a negative connotation, and in most cases, Jesus used a negative adjective, such as “wicked,” to describe the generation w 08/2/15 p 21-25 How, then, are we to understand Jesus’ words about “this generation”? 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. Watchtower 2010 Apr 15 p.10 Holy Spirit’s Role in the Outworking of Jehovah’s Purpose “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless” Do you see how the GB grasps at straws? How do you excuse such confusion promoted by the GB, Allen? Have you forgotten the thousands before you who believed completely, wholeheartedly, intently in “truth” to later find it was wrong, a lie? Do these people’s lives matter to anyone in the organization? Is it any way gratifying to know that these ones lived a lie, and were devoted to it? Belshazzar, the last king of Babylon ("BA'AL protect the king", but check with Praeceptor, please) shares much in common with the GB. “But you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, although you knew all this. And you have lifted yourself up against the Lord of heaven. They have brought the vessels (2 Cor 4:7; 2 Tim 2:20) of His house (1 Pet 2:5) before you, and you and your lords, your wives and your concubines, have drunk wine from them. (Heb 13:15; John 15:5) And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, bronze and iron, wood and stone, which do not see or hear or know; and the God who holds your breath in His hand and owns all your ways, you have not glorified. Then the fingers of the hand were sent from Him, and this writing was written. “And this is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. This is the interpretation of each word. MENE: God has numbered your kingdom, and finished it; TEKEL: You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting” Dan 5:22-27 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Heb 10:31 Rev 19:20 Last Harlot and Her Beast

Hello, Thank you Praeceptor, it is good to know you speak Greek. I would ask you many questions if I could. One off the top of my head is why would you suppose the Watchtower Kingdom Interlinear translates it as “among you”? Actually, its translation enhances the unity of the Body of Christ. Eph 2:20; Phil 3:17; 1 Cor 14:32,33; 1 Cor 12:7,17,18,21,22,25,26,28 To “go before, lead”, is harmonious with my thoughts earlier. Translating this word into English seems to have some flexibility. Heb 13:17 YLT - Be obedient to those leading you, and be subject, for these do watch for your souls, as about to give account, that with joy they may do this, and not sighing, for this is unprofitable to you. NIV - 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. The question to ask is, who has the right to “lead” God’s people? If you feel the elder body, a false priesthood not appointed by God, has been given authority to issue “commands” over the sheep using doctrines of men in the name of righteous leadership, shouldn’t sheep question whether Christ’s commands are the overriding principle used by those who “rule over” them? If these ones are breaking the law of proper worship, should they be listened to? Jesus told those whom he chose, to feed his sheep, not that all can’t do so, but he gave this primary responsibility to the Body. John 15:16; 21:17 These are the anointed ones, not those appointed on the basis of “scriptural qualifications”, or if one meets the required amount of field service hours per month. This is a direct spiritual appointment made by God, any other man or woman is not involved. 1 John 2:20 (Matt 25:21) “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” 1 John 2:3-6 So, the question is, does the elder body follow Christ’s commands, or those of men? Matt 15:9 The anointed in Christ are the true priesthood (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16; 6:19; Acts 17:24; Col 2:17; Rev 5:9,19), and are to offer “fine fruits”, but who have stooped down to a GB/elder body who lord it over them, and all sheep. Rom 11:9,10; Rev 13:11,15 They are those “among you” who are expected to ‘go before”, to lead, not through dogmatic obedience to doctrine, but directing one to obey, not men, but God’s word, as Jesus did. John 12:47,48; Phil 2:8; Heb 10:9 Jesus warned his disciples of “ruling over” others, in the same way the elder body rules over the flock. Mark 10:42-45 (1 John 2:20,21) “Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as 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 slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mar 10:42-45 Does the elder body take Jesus’ admonition to “lead” through serving and slaving for others as Jesus did? And what about the “high officials” the GB? No. These false prophets have given authority to the elder body, to spiritually judge one as dead, breaking not only one commandment, but many. Rom 14:12; Luke 21:36 Rom 14:10 – “ But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.” “Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and in you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them.” 1 John 2:7-11 (John 14:23) “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31 These last words leave no room left to give love, devotion, admiration, or loyalty of any kind to an organization, or to “kill” one’s brother or sister through man’s judgment. 1 John 2:15-17; Acts 7:48-51 The organization uses Heb 13:17 to the farthest reaches of the rich Greek language, as you say, and that is, “I have dominion”, not only over the sheep, but over God’s chosen Temple, his Holy Place. Matt 24:15; Dan 9:27; 8:10; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Rev 11:2; Matt 5:13 Those who have been appointed to “watch out for your souls” – Christ’s sheep, as well as each other, also have a heavy accountability for not listening directly to Christ. Matt 25:24-30 Truly, what the organization has fabricated is a “disgusting thing” in God’s eyes, and a rejection of Christ, by the rejection of the Body of Christ. John 12:48-50 The account in 2 Sam 19:24-30 was handled by David, an anointed one by God. Is there really any comparison to the elder body and the discipline they mete out according to a rule book? I, too, take the stance of 1 Timothy 6:3,4,20,2 balanced with 2 Cor 10:4,5; Col 2:8 and Eph 5:11-14 Disgusting Thing

Hi Allen, I see that you really haven’t answered my questions using scriptures. But instead, you say the above. Again I ask, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 Do you believe I have manipulated this scripture as Samuel Herd slaughtered 1 Cor 6:19,20 to fit his agenda targeting slaving for the organization? How would you interpret it?" Shouldn’t we apply your comment to the GB member? You might want to listen to his presentation and judge for yourself. His word inflections prove his determination to twist scripture to benefit his own argument of slaving for the organization. If he was remotely true to scripture, he would have cited the verse, turning to it in the bible. Allen, I know how are determined to defend the organization as God’s, but God defended his Son and expects us to recognize HIS plan through his Son; not man’s, a plan that is barely over 100 years old. Where do you find solid evidence of an earthly Mount Zion in the form of a worldly organization in the scriptures? It flies its own flag, it is its own Kingdom amid all of Satan’s kingdoms, it runs as any earthly organization does. Men “worship” it through their slavery to it, fully supported by the GB to do so. Matt 4:8-10 - Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” “Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?” Rom 6:16 John 4:21-24 - Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” The Jewish temple was a tangible structure at a specific geographic location. But spirit and truth are not material, nor are they limited to any physical place. Thus, Jesus was explaining that true Christian worship would not be centered in or dependent on any material structure or physical location, whether Mount Gerizim, the temple in Jerusalem, or any other sacred place. THE WATCHTOWER NO. 2 2016 Doesn't this make it plain that we return to the Father when we have sinned, not to a corporation? If anyone, anyone, desires to worship in spirit and truth on their own, by turning completely to Christ and the Father, and not attached to the organization, they are condemned, according to the Watchtower.

Because you can catch more bears with honey than with vinegar. Jer 12:6; Ps 55:21; 2 Tim 3:1-9; 2:25,26 It has everything to do with numbers.

Hello Praeceptor, This phrase, “to take the lead”, has allowed men, elders, to judge another. Is this the intention? As Shiwii said, the word, hēgeomai, is used in many different formats in the scriptures, which gives us a well-rounded view if one takes the time to study it. I noticed you said you read the Greek, then you know one terminology is “to go before”; we have Jesus as the best example of this. He set the path for our feet, showing us the way to life. The apostles did the same, exhorting, “esteeming” (one use – Heb 11:26), “accounting” (2 Pet 3:15) for those who listened to their words. In the book of Hebrews alone, this word, hēgeomai, is used six times in various forms. In translation, the WT Greek Interlinear does not say, “over you”, but “among you”. There’s a difference, do you see? This implies working together, not a ruling over one. The further scriptures you are referring to are in reference to the Chosen anointed ones, who have no voice in the organization. You are speaking of men appointed by men, who are concerned with earthly organizational matters. Jesus was concerned with the spreading of "good fruit" and chose those who would represent words of Truth. “Disfellowshipping” was never a term used by the apostles, it is a word and decree of men. The struggle men have in their determination of the righteous heart of another, by following documented organizational policy, is not based on Jesus’ direction. Because of this need for an outlined set of rules, it is obvious Holy Spirit does not back their decision making in “taking the lead”. God’s laws are “written on the heart” of one faithful chosen/anointed by Christ. 2 Cor 3;3; Rom 2:15; Heb 10:16 Would not God’s laws be sufficient enough to help another in faith, those very laws that Christ fulfilled and based on love? The elder body certainly “takes” the lead and “rules over” the congregation, because they cannot comprehend Christ’s way, which is through love. Would they struggle to assess a situation using a rule book if Holy spirit guided them? The determination to set up man's arrangement has led to much suffering through use of organizational policy, a rejection of Christ's own Body. "There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day." (John12:48) Everyone has one advocate, Jesus Christ. “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” 1 John 2:1,2 Greek word for “advocate” - paráklētos, par-ak'-lay-tos; an intercessor, consoler:—advocate, comforter. “one who pleads another's cause before a judge, a pleader, counsel for defense, legal assistant, an advocate” “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Matt 7:1 Should men assume this role before God? Consoling and disciplining in love is one thing, judging one by marking them as “spiritually dead” is another, which is the foundation of disfellowshipping and shunning.

Could you please provide scriptures that show Christ was leading people to an earthly organization? Or was he establishing the Body of Christ, a spiritual “administration” of firstfruits and providing further life to all children of God in the Kingdom? 2 Cor 9:12; Rom 8:23,19 You said, “By the way “witness” Isa 46:5 is referring to either worship the true God or the false Gods like BAAL. You’re not even trying to understand scripture anymore. If we are to worship the true God? Then let us be, reflective of Gods image as his children.” Let’s look at Isa 46. Isa 46:3 - “Listen to Me, O house of Jacob, And all the remnant of the house of Israel.” This refers to the anointed ones, including your GB. Rom 11:26; 9:6,8; Heb 10:16 “To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal And compare Me, that we should be alike? They lavish gold out of the bag, And weigh silver on the scales; They hire a goldsmith, and he makes it a god; They prostrate themselves, yes, they worship. They bear it on the shoulder, they carry it And set it in its place, and it stands; From its place it shall not move. Though one cries out to it, yet it cannot answer Nor save him out of his trouble. Isa 46:5-7 Our spiritual heritage can also infuse in us a deep sense of spiritual security that can be enjoyed only within Jehovah’s organization. 05/2/15/p. 17-22 (1 Thess 5:3) “Remember this, and show yourselves men; Recall to mind, O you transgressors. Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me Isa 46:8,9 I’ll borrow a quote from Shiwii’s post, which baffles me why you would think any of these quotes are manipulated or misrepresented, when taken straight from the source. "But if we were to draw away from Jehovah's organization, there would be no place else to go for salvation and true joy." Watchtower 1993 Sep 15 p.22 “The Lord lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let God be exalted, The Rock of my salvation! 2 Sam 22:47 Although God has clearly stated that no one could build a house for him, that heaven is his throne and earth his footstool, the Watchtower has stuffed God into man’s enterprise, assured He has chosen it to represent HIS salvation. Acts 7:49 If so, why did Christ come to the earth? “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 Do you believe I have manipulated this scripture as Samuel Herd slaughtered 1 Cor 6:19,20 to fit his agenda targeting slaving for the organization? How would you interpret it? “Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,’ Calling a bird of prey from the east, The man who executes My counsel, from a far country. Indeed I have spoken it; I will also bring it to pass. I have purposed it; I will also do it.” “Listen to Me, you stubborn-hearted, Who are far from righteousness: I bring My righteousness near, it shall not be far off; My salvation shall not linger. And I will place salvation in Zion, For Israel My glory.” Isa 46:10-13 I take it you believe this “Zion” to be the organization, the source of salvation. If so, please provide scriptural proof that it is and earthly organization. “But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels” Heb 12:22 (Rev 14:1) YHWH's Genuine Mountain - http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/02/jehovahs-genuine-mountain.html

Samuel Herd alludes to the writing as being done by others, the GB’s 30+ helpers. In a recent video on slaving for “Jehovah” given to the Bethelites he said, “While all major decisions and approval are made by the FDS, we have 30 qualified helpers and several other brothers who work hard in assisting us in accomplishing our responsibilities of feeding and caring for Jehovah’s sheep.” As he runs down the long list of organizational (BUSINESS) matters needing to be addressed, including “looking into legal fights we’re having all over the world”, he finally says, “involved with all teachings”. “Now some of us may be viewed as iron chefs, but we’re not the only ones in the kitchen, you better believe that”. How could anyone listening to this talk miss the priorities given to running a corporation – a business, over simply feeding the sheep as the early apostles did? He begins his talk on slavery by saying, “Paul told the early Christians in Corinth, “you do not belong to yourselves, for you were bought with a price”. He broke up two scriptures to create his own. “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? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Cor 6:19,20 Initially, one would believe he is speaking of Christ’s sacrifice, but after hearing his talk, I can only surmise he means one is “bought” through baptism when relinquishing one’s identity, and donning a new one in the name of a corporation, becoming its slave. This whole business in the name of God contradicts scripture, but it has persuaded so many to become "company men", devoted to its running, and convinced that God is backing it. Obviously, this scripture was not part of his talk: “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men”. 1 Cor 7:23 Or this one: “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Gal 1:10 And not this one: “No one can be slave to two masters; for he will either hate the first and love the second, or scorn the second and be loyal to the first. You can’t be a slave to both God and money”. Matt 6:24 Or this one: “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29 Definitely not this one: “And He said to them, ‘You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” Luke 16:15. http://pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com/

It's so good to see you back here, Shiwii. Actually, Christ is removed from the picture as the mediator between God and Jehovah's Witnesses. Speaking the name of Jesus means nothing, when one answers to man.

Come back to what, Anna? And who’s forgiveness do we seek? Is it the organization and under man's decision of acceptability and worthiness? Or do the scriptures say we repent and come back to God and Christ? God isn't the organization, is he? Isa 46:5 - “To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal And compare Me, that we should be alike?” John the Baptist told the Jewish people, to repent of their wrongdoings, never leading them to an organization, but preparing them for Christ. Jesus' message was to his own people, to repent. They did this by recognizing who he was and his salvation for all of us. Matt 4:17 Should we equate salvation with what man has built, or should we respectfully give credit of salvation to Christ and the Father? 1 Cor 7:23 - "You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." We become "slaves of men" when putting our salvation in their hands, as if they are the ones who read our hearts. Jer 17:10 - "I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give to each man according to his ways, According to the results of his deeds. Ps 139: 23-24 - "Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting." Rom 8:27 - "Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God." The Catholic Church uses a false priest and confessional, becoming mediator between man and Christ. The Watchtower uses false priests, called a judicial committee, and the back room, becoming mediator between man and Christ.