Witness

(No, I haven't taken time to download the nifty app., so just providing the link)

Well, thank you for correcting my idiocy. My source of this quote was incomplete. But how does it prove to be a false claim? That 1914 was not predicted as the coming Armageddon and the ushering in of the Kingdom? Under the same subheading: THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE KINGDOM, AND HOW IT WILL MANIFEST ITSELF "In our previous studies of the subject we learned that the “Times of the Gentiles,” which occupy the interim of time between the removal of the typical Kingdom from Israel and the full establishment of the true Messianic Kingdom upon the ruins of the present kingdoms, will end in October A.D. 1914. We have seen that the period of our Lord’s presence from 1874 to 1914 is a “harvest” time, the [page 617] earlier part of it for gathering his elect bride, and the latter part a time of trouble, for the overthrow of present institutions, in preparation for the new Kingdom."

Chickens have enough sense to call it a day. They choose to retire. Some people never quit pecking away at what has already been picked clean.

"Yes, the end of this system is so very near! Is that not reason to increase our activity?...Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world's end." (Kingdom Ministry, May 1974, p. 3) "It may be that some who have been serving God have planned their lives according to a mistaken view of just what was to happen on a certain date or in a certain year. They may have, for this reason, put off or neglected things that they otherwise would have cared for. But they have missed the point of the Bibles warnings concerning the end of this system of things, thinking that Bible chronology reveals the specific date." (Watchtower, July 15, 1976, p. 440) "Does this admission of making mistakes stamp them [Watchtower] as false prophets? Not at all, for false prophets do not admit to making mistakes." (Watchtower, Nov. 1, 1972, p. 644)

I agree with you. And yes, they were very clever in their wording, and when it failed the congregants were blamed for anticipating the end to come in 1975. This is oppression and loud deceit, no matter how it is presented. When I wanted to become a JW, I told my Catholic father of my plan, and he became very angry. He immediately related the story of a farmer and his family, whose tractor implements he frequently worked on. He was outraged that this family sold their property and all goods with it; only to be found without the ability to support the family after the passing of 1975. The world saw the proclamation through newspaper articles, and from JWs they may have come in contact with. The world was aware of the effect that it had on them. Can we make a suggestive statement without getting directly to the point? People do it all the time, and usually the listener gets the picture. In the WT leader’s hearts, was the date of 1975 for Armageddon. In order for them to save face in case it failed (which has helped not at all to those who realize their strategy), they had to devise, as you somewhat implied, a dishonest way to go about it. Satan did the same thing with Eve. What is very sad is that the leaders get away with this deception by twisting the results to reflect on the sheep as guilty ones. Down to this day, as we’ve seen in a few comments, JWs hold WT leaders in high esteem, parroting what they have been told by the leaders, concerning the date. BTK is one of them, when in his heart he certainly must know what motivated the hints they dropped, surrounding 1975. Why is the argument made that they never said directly, a date, if not to defend the guilty ones? How can an organization claim to follow God's laws when the leaders are full of deceit? Amos 2:4-5 The effect of this on God’s people is never excused by Him. He will not clear the oppressors of guilt, as they have for themselves.

Of course they would. It's based on the promise of a paradise which is promoted as relief from the conditions of this world. The word "hinted" is the word of the day, as JWInsider showed us: I don't know why you just don't accept it for what it is, BTK You squirm and change the subject when proof is put in front of you. This is most likely what JWs in general do; along with, ignoring it all together. God doesn't ignore what His people are up to. Why should we turn our eye away from the facts? “Shortly, within our twentieth century, the ‘battle in the day of Jehovah’ will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom." (The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah; 1971; 2nd ed.; p. 216) Read it as you like, twist it a million different ways. At the end of the day, Armageddon was projected to come in 1975. What you are doing well, is assisting in exposing the lies when others refute your claim. This helps other JWs hopefully see (if they care to open their eyes), the Watchtower's sins. Pure Worship of Jehovah – Restored at Last "In the past, our literature has referred to Christendom as the antitype of apostate Jerusalem. The conditions in unfaithful Jerusalem—including idolatry and widespread corruption—certainly remind us of what is happening in Christendom. However, in recent years our publications, including the one you are now reading, have not taken the type-antitype approach to prophecy except where the Bible provides a clear basis for doing so. Is there a solid Scriptural basis for referring to Christendom as the antitypical Jerusalem? No. Consider the following: Jerusalem was at one time a center of pure worship; later, its inhabitants turned apostate. By contrast, Christendom has never practiced pure worship. Right from its inception in the fourth century C.E., Christendom has always taught false doctrine. In addition, after Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians, Jehovah restored the city to his favor and it again became the center of true worship. Christendom, on the other hand, has never had God’s favor, and once it is destroyed during the great tribulation, it will never rise again. In view of the foregoing, what may we conclude? When we examine Bible prophecies that were fulfilled on unfaithful Jerusalem, we may say, ‘This or that reminds us of what we see in Christendom today.’ But there appears to be no Scriptural basis for referring to Christendom as the antitypical Jerusalem." Not only is the “prophesy” made in the book from 1971, false, but so is the reference to Christendom. These are two misleading lies. Only one, they gave a half-hearted attempt to correct. Is Christendom the only entity to be “destroyed” for teaching false doctrine? From the very beginning the Wt. has taught false doctrine. Would God lower His standards concerning truth, to accommodate the sins of His people? He has never done that, but removed His protective Spirit and allowed affliction to come upon them when they swerved from faithful worship in truth. Deut 11:26-28; Ezek 9:8,10 This is having fulfillment in the “spirit-directed organization”/Beast (Rev 13:1,2) as it struggles to maintain peace inside, while its actions on the worldly front are being are called into question. How will its judgment be concluded on the spiritual front when Christ judges? Rev 20:7-10 Will they fair better than Christendom? To believe that, is pure deception. 2 Thess 2:9-12 The “city of the great King” was Jerusalem, and referred to as Zion. Matt 5:35; Ps 48:2 The “city” in Revelation that we are to leave, is not Christendom, but where those under the New Covenant/woman/Temple representatives, reside. (Rev 11:1-3; Rev 18:16,18; 13:4) Jerusalem was guilty of shedding innocent blood. Matt 23:35 So too, is the wayward “New Jerusalem” turned apostate by a false prophet (Rev 13:11,12,14-17) that directs the "killing" of those who leave its false teachings. Rev 11:1-3,7,8; 18:24; 17:18; (Rev 1:5); 13:15 “New Jerusalem”/Zion’s “living stones” (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22) is restored not through the organization's existence, but through the “faithful” anointed found outside the apostate city/”Sodom”. Isa 1:25-27; Zech 13:9; Mal 3:3; Zech 4:9,6,12,14; Rev 11:4,3; Rev 3:12; 21:2; Ps 48:8 Judgment begins with God’s “House”/dwelling (1 Cor 3:16,17; 6:19,20; 2 Cor 6:16) sifting those within it, who obey from those who do not. 1 Pet 4:17-19 Those who remain in the “city”, risk condemnation. Jer 23:14; Lam 4:6; Rom 9:29; Rev 18:4

Because…birds of a feather flock together. Here is a handful of Russell's "signals": "In this chapter we present the Bible evidence proving that the full end of the times of the gentiles, i.e., the full end of their lease of dominion, will be reached in A.D. 1914; and that the date will be the farthest limit of the rule of imperfect men. And be it observed, that if this is shown to be a fact firmly established by the Scriptures, it will prove; Firstly, that at that date the Kingdom of God, for which our Lord taught us to pray, saying, Thy Kingdom come, will obtain full, universal control, and that it will then be set up, or firmly established, in the earth, on the ruins of present institutions." (The Time Is At Hand, 1888, p. 76, 77) "Remember that the forty years' Jewish Harvest ended October A.D. 69, and was followed by the complete overthrow of that nation; and that likewise the forty years of the Gospel age harvest will end October, 1914, and that likewise the overthrow of 'Christendom,' so-called, must be expected to immediately follow." (1889 Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, p. 245) "Complete destruction of the 'powers that be' of 'this present evil worlds - political, financial, ecclesiastical - about the close of the Time of the Gentiles; October A.D. 1914." (C.T. Russell, Studies in the Scriptures, IV, p. 622, 1897) "Be not surprised, then, when in subsequent chapters we present proofs that the setting up of the Kingdom of God is already begun, that it is pointed out in prophecy as due to begin the exercise of power in A.D. 1878, and that the 'battle of the great day of God Almighty (Rev. 16:14) which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth's present rulership, is already commenced. The gathering of the armies is plainly visible from the standpoint of God's word." (Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, The Time Is At Hand, 1889 Ed., p. 101. The 1915 Edition of this texts changed "A.D. 1914" to read 'A.D. 1915') "In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the kingdom of God, will be accomplished by the end of A.D. 1914." (The Time Is At Hand, 1902 edition, p. 99) "When Uranus and Jupiter meet in the humane sign of Aquarius in 1914, the long-promised era will have made a fair start in the work of setting man free to work out his own salvation, and will insure the ultimate realization of dreams and ideals of all poets and sages in history." (Watchtower, May 1, 1903, p. 130-131; p3184 Reprints) You would compare the pope's vision of 1975 as a "new birth", to give credence to Watchtower's validation of 1975. Incredible. Yes, birds of a feather flock together. Then some of the scribes and Pharisees answered, saying, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from You.”39 But He answered and said to them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. Matt 12:38,39 Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” John 4:48 Matt 13:10-17 "The Sign of the Son of Man" - 4womaninthewilderness blogspot

Indeed, and how I wish all JWs could see its message. 2 “Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel who prophesy, and say to those who prophesy out of their own heart, ‘Hear the word of the Lord!’ ” Therefore thus says the Lord God: “Because you have spoken nonsense and envisioned lies, therefore I am indeed against you,” says the Lord God.” “Because with lies you have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and you have strengthened the hands of the wicked, so that he does not turn from his wicked way to save his life. 23 Therefore you shall no longer envision futility nor practice divination; for I will deliver My people out of your hand, and you shall know that I am the Lord.” ’ ” Ezek 13:4,8,22,23 Rev 18:4-8

“…that this process would no longer be needed” It appears you are referring to the process of devising, planning and proclaiming, false prophesy. Good for the WT, they “stopped advertising any prophetic events after 1984”. They stopped misleading millions of lives with the promise of Armageddon to come on a certain date. And this makes them “righteous” in front of God? Is this a sort of natural selection necessary to sift out the unworthy ones over the years, preserving those who blindly continue to listened to their leaders? Matt 15:14 “…because of the 1975 fiasco” Fiasco - a thing that is a complete failure, especially in a ludicrous or humiliating way. “…the Watchtower would no longer print such enlightenment” Enlightenment – understanding, insight, education, learning, knowledge, awareness, information, erudition, wisdom, instruction, teaching, illumination, light, edification… Spiritual enlightenment from a “righteous” person would not be a complete failure, or ludicrous; since Christ would be the source of such insight. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matt 5:14-16 Prophetic fiascos are not “good works”, but prove your leaders do not have the light of Christ within them. WT's failures do not glorify God, whatsoever. One demeans the very persona of God and Christ, to believe they tolerate such lies, from the tongues of those who speak them. Jer 23:16; Rev 16:13,14 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 False prophesy is worthless - it is nothing. No spiritual growth can be gleaned from lies; since they have their beginning with the father of the lie. John 8:44 “…Because God never really gave you insight, and now as an opposer even less.” I have enough spiritual insight to respect the Word of God over those of men who have tickled the ears of many ( 2 Tim 4:3,4); spreading their false prophesy with excuses attached - words perceived as having higher value than the Word of Christ and the Father. “The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear, 16 according to all you desired of the Lord your God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, ‘Let me not hear again the voice of the Lord my God, nor let me see this great fire anymore, lest I die.’ 17 “And the Lord said to me: ‘What they have spoken is good. 18 I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren, and will put My words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. 19 And it shall be that whoever will not hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will require it of him. 20 But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, (“Jehovah’s organization”) that prophet shall die.’ 21 And if you say in your heart, ‘How shall we know the word which the Lord has not spoken?’— 22 when a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.’” Deut 18:15-22 "The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thess 2:9-12

This is quite the can of worms. I thought you were a big proponent of 1914. Although I totally agree with you that “birth pains” leading to the coming Kingdom of God are happening now (but not based on 1975 – Matt 24:3; Rev 3:3), either Watchtower’s prophetic timeline is wrong, or you are wrong according to their prophetic timeline. 1925: “Birth of the Nation”—made plain the prophecies showing that God’s Kingdom was born in 1914 w/87/3/1 The evidence already considered proves that A.D. 1914 God’s kingdom was born and his Son was enthroned with authority to rule with an iron rod amid his foes. ka chap. 11 pp. 183-211 According to your organization, the birth pains have come and gone. But, scripture doesn't tell us of two birthings, so they get around this by translating Matt 24:8 by saying "pangs of distress". And the end times? Apparently that also began in 1914: “The conclusion of the system of things” began in 1914. During the war that broke out that year, the few thousand anointed Christians, “the sons of the Kingdom,” were in spiritual captivity to Babylon the Great. In 1919, Jehovah delivered them, making a clear distinction between them and “the weeds,” or imitation Christians. He gathered “the sons of the Kingdom” into an organized people, in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: “Will a land be brought to birth in one day? Or will a nation be born all at once? Yet, as soon as Zion went into labor, she gave birth to her sons.” (Isa. 66:8) Zion, Jehovah’s organization of spirit beings, brought forth her spirit-anointed sons and organized them into a nation. w14 11/15 p. 25-26 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains. Matt 24:4-8 Yes, the New Covenant woman/promise is experiencing “birth pains”. Rev 12:2; Gal 4:26 This promise of life brings forth the woman’s “seed” - God’s Kingdom heirs. Rev 12:5; 2:26,27 The Kingdom arrives once the appropriate number of faithful priests are sealed. Eph 1:10; Rev 12:10,11;7:4 “Watch out that no one deceives you”. Satan is behind the deceit that he places before the Kingdom’s potential heirs, causing their complacency and inattentiveness to Christ's arrival. Rev 11:1,2 The “birth pains” of Matt 24 have nothing to do with politics or the world, (Eph 6:12) but has everything to do with the heirs’ ability to recognize Satan’s deception (2 Thess 2:3,4,9-12) and crush his accusations made against them. Luke 22:31; Matt 24:21,22; Luke 21:36 It isn't the activity found in Satan's world that gives birth to the Kingdom. Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm." John 18:36

True miracles can happen in the daily life of a devout Christian. There is no record kept by those who served Christ and the Father faithfully over the last 2,000 years to say they never saw a "miracle". These are an individual's "powerful signs" personally received. Acts 2:17

How do we “detect, befriend and love” God? Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” John 14:6,7 The first step in knowing God is to “detect, befriend and love” His Son. It’s right there in scripture; yet, the organization prohibits this. If we befriend someone, we approach them, initiating communication. Does it make sense that the Almighty Supreme God of the universe is approachable in prayer, but His Son is not? If we are introduced to a prominent father and son, wouldn’t we speak to both of them? Luke 9:35 If God expects us to know Him through His Son, why would we not obey this command to do so? John 14:15; Rom 5:1,2; 1 John 2:3-6 "Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” John 14:21 If people approached Christ when he was on earth, who took away an individual’s right to approach him when he was resurrected? It is men, and their deliberate twisted reasoning of the conversation between Satan and Jesus. Jesus was indicating that both Jesus and Satan were to worship only the Father, which makes complete sense. This doesn't address how people should "worship" Christ as well as God. Luke 4:8 (Rev 5:13,14 is the only place in the NWT that allows the word "worship" to have any attachment to Jesus Christ. Simply, it is because God, "who sits on the throne", is mentioned.) The apostles lived and died for Christ; because by knowing him, they realized their relationship with God would flourish, and it did. John 14:9-11; Phil 1:21; 3:7-11 Please just ask yourself, Who do JWs live for? What do JWs live for? Have you made any mention of Christ in your new posts? The Pharisees who continually carried scriptures on their tongue, rejected Christ - refusing to “befriend” him. Did they have a true relationship with the Father? Then they asked him, “Where is your Father?” “You know neither me nor my Father,” Jesus answered. “If you knew me, you would also know my Father.” John 8:19 “False christs” would inhibit one to know Jesus. Instead, they would admonish one to give recognition to themselves. Matt 24:24 They would preach “another Jesus”, leading one away from both him and the true God. 2 Cor 11:4,13,14; Gen 3:15; Rev 13:1,2,11,15 They would consider it shameful whoever turns to Christ, in their desire to be fully obedient to the Word (and not the words of men). Those men willingly expel them from the congregation (“synagogue”) for their testimony of…Jesus Christ. They lose the “life” they knew, to follow Christ. John 16:2,3 “Then he called his disciples and the people around him, and said to them, “If anyone wants to follow in my footsteps, he must give up all right to himself, take up his cross and follow me. The man who tries to save his life will lose it; it is the man who loses his life for my sake and the Gospel’s who will save it. (Rev 12:11;20:4) What good can it do a man to gain the whole world at the price of his own soul? What can a man offer to buy back his soul once he has lost it? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this unfaithful and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in the Father’s glory with the holy angels around him.” Mark 8:34-38 Do JWs “know” Christ? Or, does the organization refer to Jesus Christ in name only, as the head of an earthly organization/business/empire? Do they only consider his teachings (with partiality) but not embrace the person of Christ? These words were in conjunction with the signs to look for in the last days before Jesus returned: “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. (the anointed ones) 25 See, I have told you beforehand.” Matt 24:23,24 Rev 13:1,2,5-7,11,14-17

It is EVIL that lurks in the darkness, hiding its dirty deeds. Righteousness, which results from the light of Christ, has no reason to hide anything. If an entire entity is bent on covering evil acts, righteousness would not exist within it. Evil wears two faces; one is authentic darkness, one is a fabrication of light and righteousness. 2 Cor 11:3,4,13-15 Luke 8:17; 2 Cor 6:14; Acts 26:18; Eph 5:8

Yes, they are, by an anointing. Titus 3:4-7; 2 Cor 1:21,22 I truly am sorry, but if you check the earlier WT sources, you will find that the Body of Christ consists of the anointed ones, who ARE the many members under Christ, their Head. Today, the fine line between anointed Body and those not anointed is becoming indistinguishable. It is because, what once began as truth, has transformed into a lie. Rev 16:13,14 - "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 leaders) For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth (anointed ones; Rev 1:5; Rev 5:10) and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty."

1 Peter was written to the “chosen” (1 Pet 1:1,2) So, the elders of 1 Pet 5 were “chosen” ones – the anointed. 1 Pet 2:5,9 Today’s elders are not members of the Body of Christ. Eph 4:4-8,11-13,15,16 They cannot “shepherd” as Christ expects, since they have usurped the authority of his bodily members. Dan 12:7; Rev 11:2 They are the same body of men who disfellowship Christ’s “brothers” for their testimony to him and truth. John 16:2; Rev 11:3,7; 6:9; 13:1,2,11,15 No. God does not command a counterfeit priesthood to rule over His appointed priests. Num 18:7;2 Chron 13:9; Ezek 44:6-9; Dan 11:31,32,36; Matt 24:15 No matter how clean the organization appears on the outside, inside it is full of “greed and evil” – abominations blatantly exposed in the sight of God. Ezek 8:5-13; Luke 11:39 Yes, they most certainly are “running people’s lives”. They are the “man of lawlessness” “sitting in the Temple (anointed priesthood) of God.” (1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22) They judge according to men’s laws and not the laws of Christ. Jer 23:1 To say that an elder body appointed by men is as well accepted in your “earthly organization” as the anointed “144,000” are, in God’s “heavenly organization”, begs the question; which one do you believe God places His trust? Those He has approved and refined as “blameless”, or those chosen by men, who have caused suffering, the breakup of families, even death to thousands? 1 Pet 1:7; Rev 14:5 Rev 5:9,10 And they sang a new song: You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slaughtered, and you purchased[a] people[b] for God by your blood from every tribe and language and people and nation. You made them kings and priests to our God, and they will reign on the earth.

Aside from the fact that this paragraph is one long sentence, which I'm having trouble making sense of; I ask you, who do you believe the "elders" in the first century were? Those not anointed? I'm referring to your scriptures in 1 Timothy. 1 Cor 6:2

You bring out a couple of good points. Yet, what does the phrase “Judicial Committee” mean to you, Derek? It is judgment put upon a person by the elders, men who have the given authority (by the GB) to judge someone as spiritually alive or spiritually dead. Matt 10:17; John 16:2; 7:1,2; Luke 6:37; James 4:12 Many times this judgment is made on the basis of doctrine that has been dropped or changed by the GB, and those judged refuse to absorb the lie. Or, it is based on the refusal to accept 1914, using scriptures verifying why one rejects it. Others, who read scripture realize there is no earthly organization that must obtain our allegiance, in order for us to receive life. Rev 13:4,12; John 14:6 (edit) It is enforced because victims of abuse speak out when not receiving the attention and care needed, but are told to get along with their abuser who may reside in the same congregation. If and when they speak out in pain and suffering against this injustice, THEY are judged as spiritually “dead”, and shunned. Rev 13:15 If these individuals who are disfellowshipped never returned to the organization, do you believe they will be saved in Armageddon? If not, then you accept the unfair judgment of an organization of men, over that of Christ's law of love. Rom 2:1-3; Gal 5:14 These are the facts. Christ has been given the authority to judge individuals based on his Word; even so, if the organization was truly operating under his guidance, the anointed ones – the true priesthood (1 Pet 2:5,9; Rev 5:9,10) – would be leading, teaching and “judging” in righteousness and love, since they would be listening to one Head directly, Jesus Christ; and not to a mediator, the governing body. Mal 2:7; 1 Cor 6:2 A true “faithful and discreet slave” would not shut the mouths of his brothers and sisters and expect undue allegiance only to their word; threatening them with disfellowshipping if they choose to listen to the gift of Spirit within their heart. 1 John 3:10-12; Matt 24:48-51; John 15:26 I think John recognizes these things, and realizes that men who unofficially judge others with such serious matters, show the WT organization to be a cloaked tyranny. They play with lives, and ruin them. The Father and Christ see all. They hear all. And they will act on the sins of God’s people. Isa 42:14-17; Rev 18:4-8

I did too.

Excellent.

A comment on this article and its writer, by John Redwood: Thanks to Hemant Mehta for picking up my JW Survey article about the JW v Watchtower case and Watchtower's appeal to the US Supreme Court. Hemant has a brilliant and unique perspective on life, which is why he comes up with some bold titles for his articles. Take this one for example: "The Jehovah's Witnesses Want the Supreme Court to Help Them Cover Up Sex Abuse" I would like to address this title- because it's EXACTLY the kind of headline Watchtower will call an "Apostate-Driven Lie." From the standpoint of Watchtower - this title is false and an absolute fabrication. They would say that under no circumstances do they wish to cover up child abuse. Would they be correct? If one of their elders called headquarters and asked whether this is true or not- headquarters would tell them absolutely not. They would say that they endeavor at all times to cooperate with law enforcement, as stated in their May 2019 Watchtower article about child abuse. They would say that they only keep records of child molesters to protect the congregation, and they should be applauded for their diligence in keeping such situations under control. So, the elder would hang up the phone satisfied that the JW organization he represents does everything possible to protect children, and that they are not covering up anything. Hence, he would now go back to his fellow elders and congregation members and say "You see brothers, Satan is really working through the media and is trying very hard to spread these false apostate lies about our organization. We must avoid apostates at all costs, and always turn off the TV when we see such reports" This is how Jehovah's Witnesses are manipulated and controlled into believing that all false reports and headlines like this are blatant Satanic lies. It's very subtle. Witnesses trust their elders, and the elders trust the organization's leaders, and if those leaders tell them its all lies- they believe it and bring this message back to the flock. Average rank and file Jehovah's Witnesses do not have direct connectivity with the Watchtower legal and Service Departments. Even if they did, they would not get answers and would be told that these matters are being handled by responsible brothers who have prayed for Jehovah's direction - so let's leave the matter in Jehovah's hands. Meanwhile- the headlines are true. When Hemant says the JWs want help covering up child abuse, he's not wrong. Is the title click-bait? Maybe. But why shouldn't it be? Journalists use catchy titles to grab people's attention. The real question we must ask is "Does the article have the facts to back up the title?" And in the answer is: Absolutely yes. This is why Jehovah's Witnesses are on the verge of falling into the chasm of no return, the abyss of disgrace. The facts could not be any more clear: Jehovah's Witnesses have openly admitted that they collect data from every congregation in the world related to child abusers and their victims, and they openly admit that they have no desire to turn this information over to criminal and civil authorities. Period. It's just that simple. Read their Supreme Court appeal. They are using the United States Constitution as a cover for concealing what they call confidential communications, or "privileged" communications. it's one thing to say that the confession of a guilty person to their pastor or elder is privileged communication - but it's entirely another matter when three dozen pastors all know about and investigate the crimes committed, and they all claim that it must never be shared with the authorities - or even the families of the victims. If that's not a cover-up, I don't know what is. Facts are facts, and at the end of the day, it all comes down to whose side are you on- the side of truth and transparency, or the side of protecting the reputation and assets of a religion. If we learned anything from the movie Spotlight, it's that we don't want to be on the wrong side of this.

A spiritually-minded leader ("heavenly" Col 3:2) would not allow the "soulical" view ("earthly" James 3:15) to be joined together; at baptism, or at any other point in the spiritual 'upbringing' of a person. 2 Pet 3:18

Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” 20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” 21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body. The body of Christ is the Temple of God: Elsewhere, the apostle Paul wrote of anointed Christians as “growing into a holy temple for Jehovah.” (Eph. 2:20-22) w10 7/15 pp. 20-24 However, generally when the Christian Greek Scriptures speak of the “congregation” in the broad sense, they are referring to the 144,000 as a body subject to the head Christ Jesus. Thus Paul, at Ephesians 1:22, 23, speaks of “the congregation, which is his body,” and later writes: “I am speaking with respect to Christ and the congregation.”—Eph. 5:32 Wt 63/9/1 p. 538 “Names for Christ and His Congregation” Because, by self-scrutiny and after their hearing the Memorial discourse, they honestly acknowledged to themselves and to others that they were not members of Christ’s body, which the Scriptures show is made up of only 144,000 members under Jesus the one Head. w52 2/15 pp. 111-114 Ever since Pentecost the “body of Christ,” which is limited to the one hundred and forty-four thousand that John saw “standing upon the mount Zion” with the Lamb, have been receiving the benefits of this provision, being declared righteous in the sight of God because of their faith in Christ’s sacrifice and their dedication to do Jehovah’s will.—Rev. 14:1, NW. w54 9/1 pp. 521-523 Body of Christ = Temple = House of God "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." Eph 2:20-22 The Body of Christ/temple is being built to serve the needs of all the children of God in the Kingdom. This is God’s promise to His future children – it is the New Covenant promise of life. Rev 21:2-4,9-12

I reread your comment and found the primary words used, to be unity and peace brought about through one's obedience (edit). What I didn’t see, was the word, truth, or even faith, which was rather startling; for without the two, peace and unity in Christ cannot exist. Truth from Christ gives us eternal life. John 14:6; 1 John 4:6; John 1:17 Each truth from God’s Word that we adhere to, is a building block of our faith. No matter how hard all within the organization strive for peace and unity, without truth as one’s foundation, it will crumble. Without supporting and acknowledging the anointed Temple built on truth, the organization and all who remain in it, have no future. Zech 4:7; Rev 8:8 It is at odds with God and Christ. Gen 3:15; 2 Pet 2:1-3; Rom 1:25; Rev 13:4 There are many false prophets in the world that may utter the names, “Jesus”, or “Jehovah”, but this doesn't signify that truth in Christ is spoken. Does the Watchtower speak pure truth? The organization is unique because it is inhabited by the authentic people of God who must speak truth in Christ. Mal 2:7; 1 Pet 2:5,9,10; Eph 4:25; 1 Tim 2:7 However, they speak the words of a false prophet; unless they choose to leave, and serve only the Father and Christ. Isa 52:11; 2 Cor 6:14-18; Rev 13:11,15 Jesus is The Word, the spokesperson of God throughout the scriptures. John 1:1 “If you continue in my word, you really are my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” Matt 7:24 The Spirit is the one who gives life. The flesh doesn’t help at all. The words that I have spoken to you ARE SPIRIT AND LIFE.” John 6:63 “If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 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. 49 For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. 50 I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.” John 12:47-50 If we realize the truth in a scripture, and reject it as unimportant, are we not also rejecting its source? Lies come in all sizes. Each lie, no matter how large or small, that is chosen over a Bible truth, corrodes our “house” – our heart. Matt 7:26,27 It is by accepting the word of men (which you appear to have done regarding the Bible’s “princes”) over the word of God. By putting faith in what men have been inspired to build and praise, as more important that the spiritual anointed Temple God has built upon his Son who is Truth, proves exactly what Armageddon involves – the heart and its choice of truth or lies. 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22; John 2:19-21; Zech 4:6-8 It is fought in “the valley of decision”, in the recesses of the heart. Joel 3:14; Rev 13:5-8; 16:13,14; 20:7-10 Here’s a little lie against the “Prince of princes” – Jesus Christ. Who is speaking to Paul in 2 Cor 12:8,9? The new Wt magazine for November claims it is “Jehovah”. At first, Paul wanted to be rid of the “thorn.” He admits: “Three times I begged the Lord [Jehovah] . . . that it would depart from me.” Yet, despite Paul’s prayers, the thorn in the flesh remained. Does this mean that Jehovah did not answer Paul’s prayers? Not at all. He did answer them. Jehovah did not remove the problem, but he did give Paul the strength to endure it. Jehovah said: “My power is being made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:8, 9) And with God’s help, Paul was able to maintain his joy and inner peace!—Phil. 4:4-7. WT 11/2019 Was Paul speaking to God here, or Jesus? NWT 2 Cor 12:8,9 – “Three times I begged the Lord about this, that it would depart from me. 9 But he said to me: “My undeserved kindness is sufficient for you, for my power is being made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly, then, I will boast about my weaknesses, in order that the power of the Christ may remain over me like a tent. 10 So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in insults, in times of need, in persecutions and difficulties, for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am powerful.” Do you notice in the paragraph that they did not finish quoting verse 9? When you continue reading, is it not clear that it is Jesus who spoke to Paul? Why would the Wt remove this “power” from Christ? For the same reason they have removed it from the members of his Body/Temple. “Then I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever, that it shall be for a time, times, and half a time; and when the power of the holy people has been completely shattered, all these things shall be finished.” Dan 12:7 “ Because of transgression, an army was given over to the horn to oppose the daily sacrifices; and he cast truth down to the ground. He did all this and prospered.” Dan 8:12 From the organization as a whole, down to every lie it has expressed and still does, it has been prophesied to conquer the anointed ones/”saints” in the last days. Rev 13:5,6; 20:7-9 It is Satan’s last attempt to deceive the “remaining ones of the woman’s seed”. Rev 12:1-4 The anointed will not be deceived by 1) another religion; 2) a political entity. They are deceived by false prophets who are the “wolves in sheep’s clothing” found among them. Matt 24:24; Acts 20:29; Eph 6:12 Do JWs love the truth? Or, is it the perceived sense of “peace and unity” that they love, and which is all that the organization can offer? 1 Thess 5:3; 1 Tim 4:3,4; Gal 1:7,8 That was the mindset of early Pharaohs in Egypt, to maintain peace and unity. In fact, if one were to research some of their religious practices, there are features quite similar to the organization’s layout. Revelation 11:1-3,7-10 speaks of the “two witnesses” who are “killed”/disfellowshipped for their rejection of the Beast/”organization”(per Wt), and give testimony to Christ and TRUTH. Rev 6:9; 11:7; 12:11 This happens “in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.” Blaming this symbolic killing of the two (“two” meaning “truth” John 8:17) servants of Christ on Christendom, is off the table, according to one of the organization’s latest publication. There is no anti-typical Jerusalem. Jesus died on the stake outside of Jerusalem. The “two witnesses” are cast out and viewed as “dead” where “Jerusalem” is found, which is where we find the anointed spiritual “Israel” – in the organization. (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17) Both “cities” share in apostasy. The cleansed “New Jerusalem”/Temple priesthood is restored if its members “leave the city” and submit to refinement and guidance by God and Christ. Luke 21:20,21; John 5:24;8:51; Matt 22:8-10; Rev 3:18-20 Why is God’s “city” in the last days, compared to Sodom and Egypt? “Among the prophets of Jerusalem also I saw a horrible thing: They commit adultery and walk in lies. They strengthen the hands of evildoers, and none turns his back on evil. They are all like Sodom to me; Jerusalem's residents are like Gomorrah.” Jer 23:14 God is telling His people in the book of Revelation to “flee” from spiritual adultery and lies, just as He warned His faithful ones in Egypt, Babylon and Sodom. Rev 18:4-8 “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess 2:9-12 The “lawless one” sits/rules in the Temple of God. It is the elder body who comprise the organization – and who “represent the royal priesthood”. 2 Thess 2:1-4 It is the same power that disfellowships the “royal priesthood” and all, who see through Wt’s lies. Matt 24:15,16; 48-51; Rev 13:15 Yet, to most all JWs, it is an accepted process that must be done to maintain the peace and unity required, to sustain their idol. Rev 13:1,2,11,14-18 These are "fruitless works" that are to be exposed, not buried; as God's word indicates. Eph 5:11