Witness

It if was just that easy. Experience by those who do so, will say that no one gets up and moves on without being shunned or disfellowshipped for doing so. So, although no one actually made an individual do anything, it is stipulated that any who are independent of GB direction, are "apostate"; especially if it is expressed verbally. But you know these things already.

A very 'practical' viewpoint. As a young Catholic, I would set up a shrine to the "Virgin Mary" in my bedroom for the month of May. I didn't think much of the statue until I dressed up the temporary shrine with bouquets of flowers and anything else I could think of that would make it appealing. I prayed to Mary in front of that statue...just for the one month. The rest of the year, Mary was put on the book shelf and left there. There is no doubt in my mind that any JW would believe I was committing idolatry, which I was. Definition of “shrine”: A shrine is a place of worship which is associated with a particular holy person or object. Shrine comes from the Latin scrinium meaning "case or box for keeping papers." Think of a shrine as a niche or case in which the spirit of someone special is kept. It could be a statue or some other form of commemoration to either a person or a relic. A shrine can be as small as a tiny mantel in your house or it can be as massive as a building commemorating, or shrining, a sacred person. (vocabulary.com) Armenian Branch Dedication Video David Splane: “Is it your desire to dedicate the Branch facility, the assembly hall and the school facility to Jehovah today?” (met with applause) You say this isn’t idolatry? wp16 No. 2 p. 10: “Originally the word “shrine” represented a case that held sacred relics. The meaning has since broadened; it now refers to a place considered sacred, religiously or otherwise. Religious shrines are dedicated to the worship of a deity or the veneration of a “holy” person.” “Many of the world’s major religions have shrines, and countless millions of people visit them. In professed Christian lands, there are numerous churches and shrines dedicated to Jesus, Mary, and the saints.” Is it not a shrine if it is dedicated to “Jehovah”? Is it not a shrine if it is called a kingdom hall or assembly hall? “How, then, should Christians view pilgrimages to and worship at shrines? (video - “The dedication week started off with a welcome night, where many traveled long distances to attend. And some had not seen each other for a long time”) Taking into account Jesus’ command that true worshippers worship God with spirit and truth, it is clear that worship rendered at any shrine or sacred place has no special value to our heavenly Father. Additionally, the Bible tells us how God views the veneration of idols in worship. It says: “Flee from idolatry” and “guard yourselves from idols.” (1 Corinthians 10:14; 1 John 5:21) Therefore, a true Christian would not worship at any place that is viewed as holy in itself or one that encourages idolatry. Thus, on account of the very nature of shrines, true Christians refrain from worshipping at them.” Every time a building is ‘dedicated to Jehovah’; and its finished product is spoken as bringing honor to "Jehovah”, idolatry is encouraged; even if at a later point in time, the building is sold. This building and discarding of dedicated kingdom halls, assembly halls, and Bethels, reminds me of Isa 44:9-20 Yet, it is not a new idea with the organization, since it also is “worshiped”. Rev 13:4,8 To verify this, JW believe salvation is not possible without it. We worship God who is our salvation. Christ also deserves our worship, since “there is no other name under heaven” by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12; Rev 5:13,14 But an organization as man’s salvation? Built in Satan’s realm? Any bit of truth, such as stated above in the article, is not put into practice by your leaders. (like child abuse) 2 “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach." Matt 23:2,3 All who make idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Those who would speak up for them are blind; they are ignorant, to their own shame. 10 Who shapes a god and casts an idol, which can profit nothing? 11 People who do that will be put to shame; such craftsmen are only human beings. Let them all come together and take their stand; they will be brought down to terror and shame. 12 The blacksmith takes a tool and works with it in the coals; he shapes an idol with hammers, he forges it with the might of his arm. He gets hungry and loses his strength; he drinks no water and grows faint. 13 The carpenter measures with a line and makes an outline with a marker; he roughs it out with chisels and marks it with compasses. He shapes it in human form, human form in all its glory, that it may dwell in a shrine. 14 He cut down cedars, or perhaps took a cypress or oak. He let it grow among the trees of the forest, or planted a pine, and the rain made it grow. 15 It is used as fuel for burning; some of it he takes and warms himself, he kindles a fire and bakes bread. But he also fashions a god and worships it; he makes an idol and bows down to it. 16 Half of the wood he burns in the fire; over it he prepares his meal, he roasts his meat and eats his fill. He also warms himself and says, “Ah! I am warm; I see the fire.” 17 From the rest he makes a god, his idol; he bows down to it and worships. He prays to it and says, “Save me! You are my god!” 18 They know nothing, they understand nothing; their eyes are plastered over so they cannot see, and their minds closed so they cannot understand. 19 No one stops to think, no one has the knowledge or understanding to say, “Half of it I used for fuel; I even baked bread over its coals, I roasted meat and I ate. Shall I make a detestable thing from what is left? Shall I bow down to a block of wood?” 20 Such a person feeds on ashes; a deluded heart misleads him; he cannot save himself, or say, “Is not this thing in my right hand a lie?”

The building of kingdom halls is looked upon as bringing “honor to Jehovah”, and it is not by coincidence that the Warwick Bethel has as its address, 1 Kings Drive. (1 Kings 8:13) Buildings mean something sacred to JWs. I have watched a JW video of an assembly hall compared to the early temple,and how it must be treated with care as the early temple was. They have great value as a place of consecrated worship. Does it bring “honor to Jehovah” when these dedicated buildings are put up for sale? If you say this thought would not be applicable at such a time, then how would anyone know that building a kingdom hall to begin with, brought "honor to Jehovah"? How is it, one knows that God receives honor at the completion of building a kh, but not privy to what He thinks when the 'for sale' sign is posted? It is the hypocrisy, that is in play. Hypocrisy and the idolatry of placing spiritual value in the work of man's hands. Ps 135:15

Consecrate: make or declare (something, typically a church) sacred; dedicate formally to a religious or divine purpose. Thanks, Srecko, they are one in the same, as you pointed out. So, these transitory buildings that are temporarily consecrated/dedicated for worship can be compared to the ark of the covenant? God was in complete control of its movement, since it housed His Spirit. Only His priesthood was allowed to move it. Josh 3:17 In the case of kingdom halls, men are in complete control of its use; when it should be discarded and another built. In the meantime, these buildings are called the dwelling place of God’s Spirit – God’s house. This appears to be a matter of convenience. Unless I’m missing what you’re getting at, I don’t see the comparison at all to the ark of the covenant. Christ’s instructions: Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 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.” John 4:21-24 Worshiping in this way, doesn’t take any building to be consecrated or dedicated to do so; not even a mountain-like organization. Jesus made this clear when he said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” That temple was the dwelling place of God, but Christ became the chief cornerstone of the new spiritual Temple, built on the apostles and prophets and all faithful, sealed "living stones" throughout the last 2,000 years. John 2:19,21,22; 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 12:28; Eph 2:20; Rev 21:14 Stephen clarified it this way: “However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: 49 ‘Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. What house will you build for Me? says the Lord, Or what is the place of My rest? 50 Has My hand not made all these things?’ Acts 7:48-50 I can imagine when a JW walks into a kingdom hall, assembly hall, and most definitely, a Bethel; thoughts are, that God’s presence in Spirit resides within the building. This is why Bethels are decorated and pristinely presented, as a tribute to “Jehovah”. It is considered a “spiritual house”. Is it all an illusion? Well, yes it is. Can a JW separate the building from God, and God from the building? So if we are God’s children, we shouldn’t think that the divine being is like an image made from gold, silver, or stone, an image that is the product of human imagination and skill. 30 “God overlooked the times when people didn’t know any better. But now he commands everyone everywhere to turn to him and change the way they think and act. 31 He has set a day when he is going to judge the world with justice, and he will use a man he has appointed to do this. God has given proof to everyone that he will do this by bringing that man back to life.” Acts 17:29-31 There is only one exclusive dwelling acceptable to be God’s house – His Temple: 1 Pet 2:5,9 - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house (“into the temple of the Spirit”) to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Cor 3:16 – “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?” If God has chosen His dwelling in the anointed, what right does man have to formulate their own and claim God has blessed it? 2 Cor 6:16 - 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.” Eph 2:20-22 - Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. The “living stones”, the “royal priesthood” and dwelling of God, is right among the JWs. Do they notice? No, they notice their kingdom halls, assembly halls and Bethels, as landmarks of God’s dwelling places; replaced when needed with more work of their hands. Rom 1:25 Regarding the dwelling place of God's Spirit, would you say that the organization has accepted God's Word through His Son, Jesus Christ?

Watchtower dogma is evident in your words: You are saying that Paul was to subject himself to a group of men, just as your organization demands subjection to a ruling authority. Scripture proves otherwise, not only by those I have already presented above, but by the circumcision issue itself. The problem began in Jerusalem. Obviously your “central organization/body/committee" was unable to keep a handle on rebellious ones; so much so that they came down from Jerusalem and Judea into Antioch, pressing that circumcision was necessary for salvation. Acts 14:2; 15:2 Holy Spirit was the source of preaching to the Gentiles. Any tolerance to those who rejected the inclusion of the Gentiles, were acting against the direction of Holy Spirit. Acts 15:1,2: And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question. The congregation in Antioch, which included Paul and Barnabas, made the unanimous decision (not just 8 men, even in Antioch) to approach the older men in Jerusalem. Paul did not submit to any demand from Jerusalem. The entire congregation in Jerusalem welcomed Paul and Barnabas, and listened to the account of their work guided by God. Acts 15:4,12 So, where was a governing body, telling these powerful, spiritual men what to do and when to say it? Read the entire chapter, and notice that it was “the whole church”, not a select few, who came to the decision to send a letter, and approve of what to include in it, which was then sent to Antioch. Acts 15:22-29 Paul was always true to his words; never subjecting himself to anyone but Jesus Christ. Each anointed one in Christ is subject to only one Master; not to the rules and regulations of a false authority. Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations— 21 “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” 22 which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? Col 2:20-22 DOGMA - prescribed doctrine proclaimed as unquestionably true by a particular group a specific tenet or doctrine authoritatively laid down, as by a church Watchtower's dogma of a necessary existence of a governing body is not a spiritual insight from God; but a lie, according to God's Word. Luke 22:24-27

Well, maybe one of your own leaders will put it into perspective for you.

Allison Fallon, a blogger and author, has written an article titled Why We Follow Strong, Dangerous, Narcissistic Leaders. She asks, “What is it that we find so compelling about narcissistic leaders? Why are we attracted to them?” Here are 5 points from Fallon on why narcissistic leaders capture our attention: Narcissistic leaders: 1. They are incredibly charismatic and convincing. These leaders are experts in the charm department. They are “smart, intuitive, believable, and great storytellers,” says Fallon. Their charisma and ability to convince others makes them appear trustworthy. 2. They control the story. Narcissistic leaders know what to say and what NOT to say. They are careful to create a clear story, even if it isn’t true. Fallon advises, “Sometimes these leaders tell stories that don’t even make any sense, but they repeat them over and over again to us—enough times that we actually begin to believe them.” 3. They understand the power of group think. These leaders tend to win many friends and have a vast array of supporters. Having this support helps validate the stories they are putting out. Fallon relays, “This is one of the hardest parts about dealing with a narcissist, since there are always a good number of people who like them, even love them, and who feel threatened anytime you suggest this person might not be who he or she says he is.” 4. They make us feel powerful. Not only do narcissists feel powerful, they aim to help their supporters feel safe and protected, which in a sense makes them feel powerful too. Fallon warns, “And until we wake up one day and realize that we have more power than we ever dreamed possible and that with great power comes great responsibility, we will keep clinging to these strong, dangerous, narcissistic leaders.” 5. They make us think they have something we don’t. As Fallon states, these leaders “are not necessarily more powerful or more intelligent than any of the rest of us,” and they are certainly not God. She continues, “It’s important to understand that while narcissists seem to be on top of the world when they’re at their best, when they’re true nature reveals itself, it is incredibly destructive. It ruins businesses and families and destroys relationships and lives." While Narcissistic leaders have a tendency to gain trust in the beginning, after their true character traits are revealed they have a tendency to cause more fear than comfort. These leaders seek to control individual expression, creativity, and innovation. So what can we do? Fallon recommends the following: begin to recognize the traits of narcissism, and acknowledge your ability to make choices in your support.

Satan uses subtleties to reveal his deception. Many people leaving the organization are appalled at finding what are called “subliminal images” sprinkled throughout the publications; dark images that become apparent once we “wake up”. Eph 5:14 At one time I was fascinated by them, but there is so much of that type of darkness that I realized it detracted from the message of light and truth that Jesus has revealed through his “two witnesses”. Rev 11:1-3 However, something unusual was made note of on a forum, and I had to check it out myself. On the organization’s broadcasting channel, the brief introduction to its monthly studio videos begins with the initial music and a rotating globe, accompanied with photos of JWs all over the world. Very briefly, a huge bright ball of light appears over the map of the New York area, where we know the organization’s leaders reside in Warwick. Then, almost instantly, the organization’s logo, which represents its teachings, rests over the country of Israel. Why such an abnormally large ball of light? Why would the logo not be situation over New York instead of Israel? I don’t believe Satan’s organization does anything in innocence. The Bible may help us reason on it. (The Throne of Satan – 4womaninthewilderness blogspot) Abraham’s seed of “144,000” anointed ones in covenant with Christ, are compared to stars that are to bring blessings to mankind. Gen 15:5; 26:4; 22:17,18; 28:13,14; Gal 3:29 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matt 5:14-16 Every anointed “star” should be shining such light from Christ in these last days. If they were, and a literal map was created to signify their light, the entire globe would detect and locate each anointed star by the light they would radiate. Dan 12:3; Rom 13:12; Phil 2:15; Heb 11:12; Rev 1:16,20 However, this isn’t the case. One powerful star, fallen from God’s grace, has mislead all of spiritual “Israel”, God’s “land”, with its defiled teachings. Matt 24:24; 1 Tim 4:1; Rev 16:13-16 (1Cor 3:9,16,17; Eph 2:22) “And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, (torch) and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; 11 and the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.” Rev 8:10,11 The identity "Wormwood" is a "fallen star" (Rev 8:10,11; Isa 14:12; Jer 51:53; Lam 2:1; Obad 1:4,10) and therefore, an unfaithful anointed one who is described as "great", "burning as a torch", and able to cause the deaths of "many" (Rev 8:11). ...the same one to whom Satan gives the "key to the abyss"[Rev 9:1 (the power over deception and death -Heb 2:14)]. We see that the first thing this unfaithful chosen one does, is unleash those now under her power (Rev 9:2,3) which is a parallel to the "two-horned beast" Rev 13:11 (Wormwood), empowering the collective Wild Beast (Rev 13:14,15). The Fallen Star and two-horned Beast/False Prophet, are both parallels, to the adulterous "Harlot" riding the Beast (Rev 17:3; Hos 9:1;1:2). All four illustrations are about the same identities. Harlot=two-horned False Prophet=Wormwood=Fallen Star=spiritual Jews in Covenant Wild Beast=locust-scorpions=man of lawlessness=disgusting thing in Holy Place=spiritual Gentiles As you can see, the unfaithful Chosen Ones use those outside that covenant who are under their influence, to do their persecuting for them (Rev 11:7; 17:3; 13:11,12,15). But you may notice in Rev 17:3, that in the time of the end, there is a change in this arrangement (Dan 7:7,19,23; Rev 17:3) in that the Beast which the last "woman/Harlot" uses... is covered with "blasphemous names". This unfaithful fallen star and her army of Gentile counterfeit priests, are self-proclaimed as "God's visible spirit-directed Organization" --Blasphemy! (Rev 17:3) From – Why Jesus came to earth / Last World Power over the Chosen Ones / "Iron" and "Clay", Pearl Doxsey When this “spirit-directed” “mountain-like organization” turns on the Harlot/fallen star/wicked steward over God’s wayward priests, will the bright ball of light in their videos, remain positioned over New York? It will be interesting to see. Matt 24:45; Luke 12:42; 16:1,2 This is what the Lord, the Lord Almighty, says: “Go, say to this steward, to Shebna the palace administrator: 16 What are you doing here and who gave you permission to cut out a grave for yourself here, hewing your grave on the height and chiseling your resting place in the rock? 17 “Beware, the Lord is about to take firm hold of you and hurl you away, you mighty man. 18 He will roll you up tightly like a ball and throw you into a large country. There you will die and there the chariots you were so proud of will become a disgrace to your master’s house. 19 I will depose you from your office, and you will be ousted from your position. Isa 22:15-19 Then he said to me, “The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. 16 And the ten horns which you saw on the beast, these will hate the harlot, make her desolate and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire. 17 For God has put it into their hearts to fulfill His purpose, to be of one mind, and to give their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled. 18 And the woman whom you saw is that great city which reigns over the kings of the earth. (Rev 1:5; 5:9,10)” Rev 17:15-18 Pearl Doxsey: “The Fallen Star” “The Steward’s Sacred Trust” 4womaninthewilderness blogspot

After Jesus was resurrected, he still appeared on earth as a man. John 21:14 In God’s Kingdom the priests/kings who will “rule ON the earth”, (Rev 5:9,10) and serve God in heaven, could still appear as either female or male. Rev 22:1-5 (John 1:51; Heb 1:6,7) They are to imitate Christ, their Head and High Priest/”Husband”, becoming one with him.1 Cor 12:27; Rom 12:5; Gal 3:29 Whether male or female, their kingdom rule will be based on the love, peace and wisdom that they have come to know through Jesus Christ. Their “offspring” to come, are the rest of Abraham’s seed, that they help, nurture, and teach God’s decrees in the Kingdom, by bringing the dwelling of God to earth. Mal 2:7; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22;Rev 21:2,3; Gen 26:4;28:14 Jesus had such compassion for people when on the earth, and God will choose and teach those whom he deems faithful out of the called ones, as Christ’s Bride; who will also display the same compassion as Christ, whether they are male or female. 1 Cor 2:16; Rom 15:5; Rev 17:14 Interestingly, the October 2019 study magazine made the confident statement that “During the great tribulation, a change will take place regarding the brothers who take the lead on earth. At some point, all anointed ones who are still on earth will be gathered to heaven to share in the war of Armageddon. (Matt. 24:31; Rev. 2:26, 27) This means that the Governing Body will no longer be with us on earth. WT 10/2019 Wow. Such insight! They KNOW who will rule with Christ! David Splane spent some time warning the anointed about the possibility of being found"foolish" at Jesus return, but apparently that fear is no longer. These insightful men have been given new light concerning the last days. (Matt 25) How they hurry and plan for Armageddon to arrive. How horrible it will be for those who string people along with lies and empty promises, whose lives are sinful. 19 They say, “Let God hurry and quickly do his work so that we may see what he has in mind. Let the plan of the Holy One of Israel happen quickly so that we may understand what he is doing.” 20 How horrible it will be for those who call evil good and good evil, who turn darkness into light and light into darkness, who turn what is bitter into something sweet and what is sweet into something bitter. 21 How horrible it will be for those who think they are wise and consider themselves to be clever. 22 How horrible it will be for those who are heroes at drinking wine, who are champions at mixing drinks, 23 who declare the guilty innocent for a bribe, who take away the rights of righteous people. Isa 5:18-23

Who organized Paul's ministry? 1"Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— 2 and all the brothers and sisters with me" 15"But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus." If there was a "central organization/body/committee", I wonder what they thought of this independent rogue apostle, who listened to the Spirit, and not to men. "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. 11 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ. Gal 1:1,2,15,16,10-12

Please, can you provide scripture to clarify that it was a "central organization/body/committee"? The idea may have set a precedent for the WT organization, but it isn't God's definition of "organization". That would be the Body of Christ - built on "living stones". 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22 How does the one incident about circumcision prove there was a "central organization/body/committee"?

Jesus specifically wears a golden crown – actually many. I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. Rev 19:11,12 The locust-scorpions wear “something like crowns” – not the authentic thing. Do you remember your comment on my post concerning Isa 32:1, "Are the elders princes?" You said, "While I agree with you on this, I feel it is unimportant." Princes wear crowns, and in this case, the elder body havet taken these crowns from the authentic priesthood. They wear pseudo-crowns, "something like" the real thing. The sealed anointed do not wear “something like” a crown, but most definitely, a crown: “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Pet 5:4. (Rev 2:10; 3:11; 4:4…) The truth is to bring refreshment and healing, (Matt 11:28); not the sting and oppression that the locust army directs to the unsealed anointed ones: ”For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” 2 Cor 20:20,21 “Do not harm the land or the sea or the trees until we put a seal on the foreheads of the servants of our God.” Rev 7:3 “Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel. From the tribe of Judah 12,000 were sealed, from the tribe of Reuben 12,000, from the tribe of Gad 12,000,” Rev 7:4,5 Yes, they do have "human faces", but there is nothing...nothing... that portrays peace, love, mildness in the faces of the locust. If you can't see that in even the WT pictorial description, then are you blind? The King over this army is Satan, the Destroyer. Rev 9:11 Satan has always, delivered falsehoods. Watchtower, 98 5/1 p. 9-10: Listen! Joel hears a distant roar. The sky darkens, and that eerie sound increases as the darkness extends overhead. Then a smokelike cloud descends. It is an army of millions of insects. And what devastation they cause! Now consider Joel 1:4. The insect invaders are not limited to the winged migratory locusts. Oh, no! Coming, too, are hungry hordes of creeping, wingless locusts. Brought on the wind, the locusts arrive suddenly, and their sound is like that of chariots. (Joel 2:5) Because of their voracious appetite, millions of them can quickly turn a virtual paradise into a wilderness. 6 Also on the move are caterpillars—the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Vast armies of hungry caterpillars can shear away the leaves of vegetation piece by piece, leaf by leaf, until plants are nearly denuded of their greenery. And much of what they leave, the locusts eat. And what the locusts leave, fast-moving cockroaches are sure to finish off. But notice this: At Joel chapter 2, verse 11, God identifies the locust army as “his military force.” Yes, he was the Source of the locust plague that would devastate the land and cause severe famine. When? Just before “the day of Jehovah.” How does Joel describe the locusts and the effect of their plague? (b) Today, whom do the locusts represent? 8 Look at that great locust army! “There is a nation that has come up into my land, mighty and without number. Its teeth are the teeth of a lion, and it has the jawbones of a lion. It has set my vine as an object of astonishment, and my fig tree as a stump. It has positively stripped it bare and thrown it away. The twigs of it have become white. Wail, as a virgin girded with sackcloth does over the owner of her youth.”—Joel 1:6-8. 9 Is this just a prophecy about “a nation” of locusts, a locust swarm, invading Judah? No, there is more to it than that. At both Joel 1:6 and Revelation 9:7, God’s people are represented by locusts. The modern-day locust army is none other than the military force of Jehovah’s anointed locusts, now joined by some 5,600,000 of Jesus’ “other sheep.” (John 10:16) Are you not glad to be part of this great throng of Jehovah’s worshipers? “At both Joel 1:6 and Revelation 9:7, God’s people are represented by locusts” If this is true, if the locust are the anointed, then why does God say the following about the army that he “sends” upon…..His own people? (2 Thess 2:9-12) Go back to Joel 2 (see that the WT quoted Joel 2:5 above) “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm— my great army that I sent among you. That God sent among His own people because of their sins. 26 You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed. 27 Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the Lord your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed. Joel 2:25-27 Hidden in plain sight, is the locust-scorpion swarm. They are the "Gentile" elders who wear “something like” crowns of gold, and who have replaced God’s priesthood/Temple. Rev 11:1-3; 2 Thess 2:3,4

Awake, awake, Zion, clothe yourself with strength!Put on your garments of splendor, Jerusalem, the holy city.The uncircumcised and defiled will not enter you again. (Mark 13:14; Rev 22:15;21:27) Shake off your dust; rise up, sit enthroned, Jerusalem.Free yourself from the chains on your neck, Daughter Zion, now a captive. Isa 52:1,2 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. Col 2:8 If anyone is to be taken captive, into captivity he goes. If anyone is to be killed with a sword, with a sword he will be killed. This calls for endurance and faithfulness from the saints. Rev 13:10 Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Ps 28:6,7 He gives strength to the faint and strengthens the powerless. Isa 40:29 The woman fled into the wilderness, where she had a place prepared by God, to be nourished there for 1,260 days. Rev 12:6

Yes; it is oddly, hypocritical and uncanny. 2 Cor 11:13-15

An interesting conflict in WT teaching; and its progression toward a full-fledged plaguing lie. (egg – tadpole – frog; 1 Tim 4:1; 2 Tim 3:13) w78 7/1 p. 25-26 Question: 8. (a) Do men ordain priests, the same as men appoint elders, overseers and ministerial servants? (b) Where, in Jehovah’s spiritual temple, are the anointed remnant today, and what are they doing there? 18 True, the apostles such as Paul and Barnabas did appoint qualified men to be elders or overseers and ministerial servants in the Christian congregations, but they never appointed or ordained “priests.” (Acts 14:23; Phil. 1:1) Jehovah is the One who, by Jesus Christ, appoints or ordains his priests. Despite their not assuming titles, the anointed remnant of today are in what was foreshadowed by the “courtyard of the priests” in the temple at Jerusalem. In such a figurative courtyard in the spiritual temple of Jehovah, they offer “spiritual sacrifices” to him through Jesus Christ the High Priest.—1 Pet. 2:5. Admission: Men appoint elders, overseers and ministerial servants. Until…this: w06 5/1 p. 25-26 - Does Jehovah expect those whom he appoints as servants and elders to carry the extra load by themselves? On the contrary, he provides practical assistance that enables them not only to cope but also to thrive. As discussed in the preceding article, Jehovah gives them his holy spirit, the fruitage of which helps them to care tenderly for the sheep. (Acts 20:28; Galatians 5:22, 23) In addition, Jehovah gives them wisdom, knowledge, and discernment. (Proverbs 2:6) How does he do this? Let us discuss three ways in which Jehovah trains individuals whom he appoints to care for his sheep. Proclamation: God has a new priesthood, made up of elders that He officially has chosen, even though it was admitted 28 years prior, that elders are appointed by men. “It can be said”, then, that elders are the new “anointed” priesthood. How does the GB make such a claim when they admit they are not inspired? This is how: 3 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, (organization) and out of the mouth of the false prophet. (GB) 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth (anointed, Rev 1:5) and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 “Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” 16 And they gathered them (the anointed "kings of the earth" [Rev 5:9,10] together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon. An anointed priest cannot “keep his garments” signifying who he is, (Rev 3:5,18) if he allows another to falsely “represent” him; an army appointed by men. It is prophesied that the anointed at the time of the end - who have no say in the organization, and no ability to offer "spiritual sacrifices" as a priesthood - allow themselves to be “trampled” by these lies, coming out of the organization’s “mouth”, and the mouth of its directors. 2 Thess 2:3,4; Rev 11:1-3,7; 13:1,2,5-7,11,14-17 This deceit – this delusion that IS the organization – is the tool Satan uses to destroy the “remaining ones of the woman’s seed”. 2 Thess 2:9-12; Rev 12:3,4,15; 18:4-8

Perhaps it is true that most are in the U.S., but I only know of a few. I am acquainted with one in Belgium and Romania. I am also aware of an anointed one living in Russia, and also Spain. Years ago, of the two anointed in our first congregation, one was from the UK.

If one compares apples to apples, since all religious organizations are “worldly” and operate by the same available assets in this world, the Seventh Day Adventists are much greater in number, as JWI pointed out. Yes, they still observe the Sabbath, while the WT upholds a “governing body” who, as the Pharisees did, put themselves in the seat of Moses. “Governing body” is nowhere mentioned in the scriptures. ( John 5:44,43; Gal 1:10-12,17-20) JWs have been buffaloed into believing it's somewhere, somehow within the Bible’s pages. At one time, every anointed one in the organization was considered a “faithful and discreet slave” (still, Jesus makes the designation of their faithfulness when he returns Matt 25:23). At that time period, Jesus may have been viewed more closely, as their “governing” head on a personal level, but never was this body able to unite among the throng of JWs. Jer 23:2 Today, eight men and their immense entourage have assumed authority over all of God’s anointed slaves. Matt 28:48-51; Gal 1:10 Jesus’ control over his bodily members is gone. Dan 8:10-13; 9:27; 12:7 Moses was God’s approved representative, “inspired” to lead the nation of Israel. As their High Priest, the anointed spiritual “Israel” today should have only Jesus as their governing figure; recognized to lead his anointed servants. However, the GB claims that status without any inspiration from the Father; but inspired from some fabrication within their minds. Jer 23:16; Matt 24:24; Acts 20:29,30; 2 Pet 2:1-3 Just as the SDA are to be obedient to observing the Sabbath, the WT expects “Israel” to obey not only a Pharisaical ruler-ship, governing under its own law; but also a “Gentile” elder body who enforce it. Did God allow another “nation” to govern His people, Israel? No. (Edit: He did allow other nations to overcome them when they had fallen into idolatry; which the anointed and all JWs have done, by believing an organization will lead them to salvation. Isa 40:25; Rom 1:25; Rev 13:4; 2 Thess 2:9-12; John 4:23,24) When members of another nation entered the temple, was this excused with just a slap of the hand? Never. Today’s anointed ones represent the Temple, and ARE the temple/dwelling of God; and, another abomination exists within it. (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17) 2 Thess 2:3,4; Rev 11:1-3 Ezek 44:6-9: Tell the rebellious people of Israel, ‘This is what the Almighty Lord says: I’ve had enough of all the disgusting things that you have done, people of Israel. 7 You brought foreigners whose hearts and bodies are uncircumcised into my holy place. You dishonored my temple when you offered fat and blood to me. You rejected my promise so that you could do all your disgusting things. 8 You didn’t take care of my holy things. You put foreigners in charge of my temple. 9 So this is what the Almighty Lord says: Any godless foreigner who lives among the Israelites may not enter my holy place. The GB has “put foreigners” in charge of the Temple priests. Num 18:7 The elder body rule over/sit in/stand…in God’s Temple today, as the “man of lawlessness”. Dan 9:27; Matt 24:15,16; 2 Thess 2:3,4,9-12 I do hope more elders wake up to what they’ve got themselves into, and leave. Rev 11:1-3; 18:4-8 So, what’s worse? The SDA and their practice of observing the Sabbath, building hospitals and schools; or the WT leaders playing Moses, and delegating their own priesthood under their blasphemous set of "laws"? Dan 7:23,25; Rev 13:1,2,5-7,11,15; Neh 13:29

EXTRACT] Review of Current Records: After discussing this letter as a body of elders, we would like the secretary along with the coordinator, or another assigned elder, to review what is currently in the congregation’s confidential file. They should examine the contents of all sealed envelopes in the file to confirm that they contain only the documents mentioned in the Shepherd book, chapter 22, paragraphs 22-23. The assigned elders should adhere to the direction in paragraph 26 when determining if the entire contents of the envelope should be destroyed. If the elders are not sure if a particular document needs to be retained, they should feel free to contact the Service Department for assistance. Please ensure that all records kept in the file are in harmony with what is outlined in the Shepherd book, chapter 22, and our comments above. Additionally, we ask that each elder check his personal computer, or hard copy files, and even his meeting bag, to ensure that no confidential correspondence is retained outside the congregation’s confidential file. We would like the secretary to confirm with each elder that this has been done. https://jwleaks.org/2019/08/29/australia-newly-registered-jehovahs-witnesses-legal-entity-issues-elders-letter-to-destroy-records/

@BillyTheKid46 quotes: "The Watchtower doesn’t directly claim clergy privilege, it’s automatically given by each State that has it in their legal binding. (I.e. laws)" "Then, perhaps the above will be clearer as to who is advocating the “clergy” identity. It’s not the Watchtower, but the legal system by definition." Indeed, the Watchtower has a “clergy”; albeit a counterfeit one, and they know it. “Representative”: Adjective: Typical; having the same properties or interest as a larger group. Representing, showing a likeness Noun: One who may speak for another in a particular capacity, especially in negotiation. “Representing the royal priesthood are appointed elders, who serve in positions of responsibility in congregations of Jehovah’s people around the earth. These men deserve our respect and wholehearted support, whether they are of the anointed or not. Why? Because, through his holy spirit, Jehovah has appointed the older men to their positions. In what way are elders appointed by holy spirit? 19 These older men meet the requirements that are set out in God’s Word, which is a product of God’s spirit. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) Hence, their appointment can be said to be by holy spirit. (Acts 20:28) W 02/8/1 p. 13,14 They flex this assumed role according to their advantage. If it means disfellowshipping individuals, (including members of the “royal priesthood”) judging them as unsuitable to remain in their idolatrous “Zion”, the elder body must be recognized for their falsely given “priestly” authority. After all, it can be said they were appointed by Holy Spirit, they say. In the court system, they will either defend their clergy-penitent privilege to their advantage; or deny it exists, because they have created their loophole, being “representatives” of the authentic priestly “clergy”. In all cases, it is total hypocrisy. 2 Chron 13:9 - “You forced out the Lord’s priests who were Aaron’s descendants, and you forced out the Levites so that you could appoint your own priests, as the people in foreign countries do. Anyone who has a young bull and seven rams can be ordained as a priest of nonexistent gods. W 02/8/1 p. 13,14 “Rather than challenge their authority, we truly appreciate our hardworking elders! Their record of faithful service, often over many decades, inspires our trust.” “They (Korah and his men) came together to confront Moses and Aaron and said to them, “You’ve gone far enough! Everyone in the whole community is holy, and the Lord is among them. Why do you set yourselves above the Lord’s assembly?” Moses also said to Korah, “Listen, you Levites! 9 Isn’t it enough for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the rest of the community of Israel? The Lord has brought you near himself to do the work for his tent and stand in front of the community to serve them. 10 He has brought you and all the other Levites near himself, but now you demand to be priests. 11 So you and all your followers have joined forces against the Lord! Who is Aaron that you should complain about him?” Numbers, chapter 16 “Don’t let anyone deceive you about this in any way. That day cannot come unless a revolt takes place first, and the man of sin, the man of destruction, is revealed. He opposes every so-called god or anything that is worshiped and places himself above them, sitting in God’s temple (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; 2 Cor 6:16; Rev 11:1-3) and claiming to be God.” 2 Thess 2:3,4 “Disgusting Thing Standing in the Holy Place” 4womaninthewilderness, Pearl Doxsey

Someone commented on this when posted elsewhere: Yes...the faces of the locusts reveal much. Look closely at their faces and expression. Do these creatures look like humble representatives, Ambassadors, of the mild tempered, lowly in heart, Lamb of God? Do they look like they represent a noble king....or a Demonic Ruler? They do not look loving or approachable.

Let’s face it, the creature in the drawing below, portrays ugly evil. And yet the organization relates Revelation’s stinging locusts to the anointed and their preaching work. Rev 9:3 God’s priests are to be messengers of truth from Christ, praising YHWH with the “fruit” of their lips. These teachings impart the light of life to those who accept them. Isa 43:21; Matt 5:14,16; 1 Pet 2:5,9; Heb 13:15; Rev 7:10,12 Would one who is to carry the “living water” from Christ, torture and afflict unsealed anointed ones – their brothers in Christ? John 4:10,14; 7:38; Rev 7:3; 9:4 Yet, that is what the locust army does! Rev 9:10 Also, God would not issue forth a proclamation bearing truth and light, from a realm of darkness, blindness, confusion and death. However, he would inspire His faithful anointed to trumpet a warning message of truth from heaven, concerning this deadly deception. Ezek 2:1-5; Rev 9:3; Ezek 2:6,7; Rev 8:13;9:13,14; Matt 24:31; Rev 11:1-3 Rev chapter 9 tells us that the locust army is given authority to afflict, oppress and deceive; having as its King, the Destroyer, which the scriptures clearly tell us is Satan the devil, the father of the lie. Isa 33:1; Rev 9:11; John 8:44. The warning message from heaven would reveal the locust army as the man of lawlessness, “sitting”/ruling over the temple of God; a rule that afflicts and tramples the “living stones”/priesthood of God’s Temple; those members whom the organization states are the locusts! Dan 11:36,37; 8:11,24; Mark 13:14; 2 Thess 2:4; Rev 13:5-7 The message has indeed revealed the locust scorpions’ identity as a false, counterfeit priesthood “representing the royal priesthood”, in the organization. Ezek 44:6-9; Matt 24:15;2 Thess 2:3,8; Rev 11:1-3 Please, JWs, don’t be fooled by your leaders’ interpretation of these locusts. The true identity of this great locust army encourages you to engage in the “preaching work”; well supplied with the latest spiritual food from your “faithful and discreet slave”. Matt 24:48-51; Rev 13:1,2,11,15 They view you as assisting the anointed by spreading a “plaguing message”, as it is called. Are you aware of this? Please consider, how would a message that scripture tells us brings the sting of deceit, which leads to sin, coincide with a preaching work that you perceive as the “good news of the kingdom”...and those who actively support it, as living the “best life ever?” Would you call your preaching message a destructive "plague"? “And out of the smoke locusts came down on the earth and were given power like that of scorpions of the arth. 4 They were told (“poured forth-speak” Rev 16:13,14) not to harm the grass of the earth or any plant or tree, but only those people who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. (Rev 7:3) 5 They were not allowed to kill them but only to torture them for five months. And the agony they suffered was like that of the sting of a scorpion when it strikes. 6 During those days people will seek death but will not find it; they will long to die, but death will elude them.” Rev 9:3-6 Each descriptive element of the locusts’ appearance helps target their identity. “The shape of the locusts was like horses prepared for battle. On their heads were crowns of something like gold, and their faces were like the faces of men. 8 Their hair was like women’s hair, and their teeth were like lions’ teeth.” Their symbolic crown represents a false authority (as “princes”) bestowed on them by the “fallen star” that releases them from the abyss. 2 Pet 3:17; (Phil 2:15) Rev 9:1,2; 8:10,11 Through their obedience to this “fallen star”/false prophet, poisoned teachings flood the heart of those under the New Covenant “woman”. 2 Cor 11:4; Eph 4:14; Gal 4:26; Rev 8:10,11; 12:9,15,16 9 They had breastplates like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the thundering of many horses and chariots rushing into battle. 10 They had tails with stings, like scorpions, and in their tails they had power to torment people for five months. 11 They had as king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon (that is, Destroyer). 2 Thess 2:9-12 shows us that the army’s deceptive existence is according to the works of Satan. Their hearts repel truth, choosing instead to love the lie. God “sends” or allows this powerful army and its beguiling image, to subdue His anointed priests, ultimately sifting the righteous from the wicked; by their choice to either serve Him exclusively in truth, or love Satan’s deceptive lie. (1 Kings 22:21,22) Luke 22:31; John 3:19,20; 1 Tim 4:1; Rom 1:25; Rev 13:4 Pearl Doxsey: “Are not locust's mouths known for devouring and swallowing (Nahum 3:15; Joel 1:4; Exod 10:12-14) .... not giving forth? No, a "plague/curse" of locusts are for destroying... not proclaiming life-saving truths (John 10:10). The locust-scorpions of Rev.9 are instead said to "sting". The Bible clearly tells us the purpose of that power (1 Cor 15:15,16) (Ezek 2:6; Luke 10:19) (Rev 9:10). Those with stingers inject sin into their victims... sin that brings forth paralysis and death (Rom 5:12; 8:2; 1 Cor 15:56). The identity of the "man of sin" who gains power over the unsealed anointed, is also described in 2 Thess 2:3,4; Rev 13:7; 9:10. In stating that the TAILS have death's stingers (Rev 9:10); these locusts deliver lies, sourced in the abyss from whence they came. The Locust-Scorpions are in subjection to, and under the direction of, that last False Prophet/Wormwood/Fallen Star. In servitude to that last Harlot, these Locust-Scorpions prophesy lies themselves (Isa 9:15,16; Rev 16:1). When these Locust-Scorpions falsely prophesy the Harlot's wormwood lies, what is the result to those who accept/receive/ingest those false doctrines? Although the Harlot's lies may taste as sweet as truth (Ps 119:103,98; Eze 3:3), the result is death (Rev 10:10; Prov 5:3-5; 7:27; 2:16-19; Isa 28:14,15; Rev 8:11; Deut 32:32; Rev 17:2). Those Chosen who remain under that power, remain in death. They are in subjection to Satan, through his agents, and they remain under the power of the Abyss and it's destruction... unsealed as slaves of God. They are obedient to doctrines of demons, rather than obedient to the teachings of God and Christ." (Deut 11:18; Rev 16:16); (Rev 14:1) From “Locust-Scorpions/Abaddon/fallen star/Wormwood” 4womaninthewilderness, Pearl Doxsey Joel Chapter 2: Blow the trumpet in Zion, and sound the alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of YHWH is coming —it is indeed near. 2 A day of darkness and gloom, a day of cloud and thick darkness, like the dawn spreads on the mountains, a great and strong army! There has been nothing like it from old, and after it nothing will be again for generations to come. 3 Before them a fire devours, and behind them a flame burns. Like the garden of Eden is the land before them, and after them it is like a desolate desert, and nothing can escape them. 4 Like the appearance of horses is their appearance, and like horsemen they run; 5 like the sound of chariots on the tops of the mountains, they leap about; like the sound of a flame of fire devouring stubble; like a strong army arranged in rows for battle. 6 From before them nations writhe, all faces turn pale. 7 They run like mighty warriors, they scale the wall like men of war; each goes on its own way, and they do not swerve from their paths. 8 They do not jostle one another; each goes on its own trail; and through the falling weapons, they are not halted. 9 In the city they rush forth; on the walls they run. Into the houses they climb up; through the windows they enter like a thief. 10 Before them the earth quakes; the heavens tremble; the sun and the moon grow dark, and the stars have withheld their splendor 11 And YHWH utters His voice before His army, because His encampment is very large; strong is the one who carries out His decree, for great is the day of YHWH and exceedingly fearful. Who can endure it? 12 “And even now,” declares YHWH, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, and weeping, and wailing.” 13 Rend your hearts and not your garments, and return to YHWH your God, because He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and great in loyal love, and relenting from harm. 14 Who knows whether He will turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind Him, an offering and a libation, for YHWH your God? 15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call an assembly; 16 gather the people, consecrate the assembly; assemble the elders, gather the children, even those who are breast-feeding; let the bridegroom come out from his private room, and the bride from her canopy. 17 Between the colonnade and the altar, let the priests, the ministers of YHWH, weep. And let them say, “Take pity, YHWH, on your people. Do not make your inheritance a reproach, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the nations, ‘Where is their God?’” 18 Then YHWH became jealous for His land and took pity on His people. 19 And YHWH answered and said to His people, “Look at me, I am sending to you grain, new wine, and olive oil, and you will be satisfied by it. I will not give you over any more as a disgrace among the nations. 20 The northerner army I will remove from you; I will drive them to a desert and desolate land, its front to the eastern sea, and its rear into the western sea; its stench and odor will rise up because He has done great things. 21 Do not fear, O land, rejoice and be glad, because YHWH has done great things. 22 Do not fear, wild animals of the field, because the pastures of the desert have put forth new green shoots, because the tree has produced its fruit, the fig tree and the vine have yielded their produce. 23 Be glad, O children of Zion, be glad and rejoice in YHWH your God, because he has given for you the autumn rains for your righteousness, and he has poured down for you rainwater, the autumn and spring rains, as before. 24 The threshing floors will be full with grain, and the vats will overflow with new wine and olive oil. 25 I will repay you the years that the locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter, my mighty troops that I sent against you. 26 And you will eat abundantly and be satisfied, and praise the name of YHWH your God, who has dealt with you wondrously. My people will forever not be ashamed. 27 And you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, and I am YHWH, your God, and there is no other. My people will never be ashamed again. 28 And it will happen afterward thus: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your elders will dream dreams; your young men shall see visions. 29 And also on the male slaves and on the female slaves, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. 30 And I will set wonders in the heavens, and on earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. 31 The sun will be changed to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of YHWH. 32 And it will happen—everyone who calls on the name of YHWH will be rescued, because on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be those who escape, as YHWH said, and among the survivors whom YHWH is calling. “Mark of Slavery” “666” “What is Sheol/Hades?” “Leviathan and the Abyss” 4womaninthewilderness blogspot

How do you not see that what you have said, can apply to your own leaders? Or do you not believe a lie is a lie, no matter whose lips it comes from? "This Generation" teaching: Who the Generation Applies to The Watchtower has swung between whether generation has a positive connotation that applies to the Anointed, or has a negative connotation applying to worldly contemporaries. It has also varied on whether the period was over an unspecified time frame or was a fixed period. In brief, the changes have been as follows: 1897 -� A group of contemporary people "�Other uses of this Greek word (genea) prove that it is not used with the significance of race, but in reference to people living contemporaneously.... In other words, the signs mentioned will occur within a generation - epoch in the close of the age.�" � Studies in the Scriptures Vol 4 pp.602,603 1927 �- The anointed �"The irresistible conclusion therefore is that Jesus referred to the new creation [the anointed] when he said: �This generation shall not pass until all these things be fulfilled.� This then would be a strong indication that some members of the new creation will be on the earth at the time of Armageddon.�" Watchtower 1927 Feb 15 p.62 1951 -� A fixed period of time from 1914 applied to worldly people "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." Watchtower 1951 Jul 1 p.404 1995 -� A group of contemporary worldly people "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."� Watchtower 1995 Nov 1 pp.14,20 2008 �- The anointed "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." Watchtower 2008 Feb 15 p.24 2010 �- A fixed period from 1914 applied to the anointed "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 April 15 p.10 (JW Facts) And what about today???? For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. 2 Cor 11:13-15

I would hope that you would consider that the most humble man on the face of the earth at the time, repented of his sin, most likely by bowing low ‘toward the earth’ before the Lord. Num 12:1-3; Exod 34:8,9 I would also hope that you realize that the scriptures Melinda provide from Heb 11 showed that his faithfulness to God was a paramount example for others to follow, including us today. Why did Moses speak bitterly to the people? They aligned themselves with Baal of Peor and ate sacrifices offered to lifeless gods. 29 They angered the Lord with their deeds, and a plague broke out against them. 30 But Phinehas stood up and intervened, and the plague was stopped. 31 It was credited to him as righteousness throughout all generations to come. 32 They angered the Lord at the Waters of Meribah, and Moses suffered[b] (“and it was evil for Moses”) because of them; 33 for they embittered his spirit,[c] (“they rebelled against his Spirit)” and he spoke rashly with his lips.” Ps 106:28-32 “Harden not your hearts as at Meribah and as at Massah in the day of temptation in the wilderness, 9 When your fathers tried My patience and tested Me, proved Me, and saw My work [of judgment]. 10 Forty years long was I grieved and disgusted with that generation, and I said, It is a people that do err in their hearts, and they do not approve, acknowledge, or regard My ways. 11 Wherefore I swore in My wrath that they would not enter My rest [the land of promise].” From that one “grave” error, as you call it, Moses did not harden his heart as the people he led had. He always upheld God’s ways, and God never rejected him, but rewarded him with eternal life. Ps 99:6 Moses enter God’s rest in spite of God’s judgment that he would not enter the Promised Land. He rebelled once, and it is quite obvious he repented for his error; otherwise he would not have been seen on the “holy mountain” with Jesus and Elijah: Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; 2 and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. 3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. 4 Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” Matt 17:1-4 Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. 2 He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God’s house. 5 “Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house,” bearing witness to what would be spoken by God in the future. Heb 3:1,2,5 As God’s holy prophet, the blessings Moses received was far greater than entering the Promised Land – he entered the heavenly “city that is to come”. Heb 13:14; Eph 2:19-21 (Rev 18:20)

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