Witness

@Kosonen an honest question: are you pulling our leg?

Yes, your blind leaders gave that illustration of lions.   Remember, it is the same leadership who for years believed God’s anointed were Joel’s locusts, but you still put your trust in them.    You may want to search the scriptures to find for yourself just one instance where locusts, and especially a swarm of locust, have even one redeeming quality. 
Both the locusts in Joel and Revelation give emphasis on their ability to eat and destroy with their teeth.    
Joel 2:6 - A nation has invaded My land,
    a mighty army without number;
it has the teeth of a lion,
    the fangs of a lioness.
Rev 9:7-11 - The locusts looked like horses prepared for battle. On their heads they wore something like crowns of gold, and their faces resembled human faces. 8 Their hair was like women’s hair, and their teeth were like lions’ teeth. 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 stingers, 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).
“ Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”  1 Pet 5:8,9
“devour” - to drink down, i.e. gulp entire (literally or figuratively):—devour, drown, swallow (up).
Who does Satan come against in Revelation?  Jesus’ “kings” under the New Covenant promise/”woman”, who are not sealed.  (Rev 1:5)
See: Gal 4:24,26; Rev 9:4; 12:15; 16:13-17
Jesus, as the Lion of Judah does not destroy people, but only death. 1 Cor 15:26  He does not use deception, as if to capture a prey. Col 2:8; Rev 13:10
Rev 5:5 - "Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
“overcome” – “conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory.”
The victory over death by the sacrifice of his life. 
You leader’s comment regarding the mention of both Jesus and Satan described as lions to validate his argument that there can be a good locust army, and a wicked locust army, is futile.    A locust swarm has only one characteristic, which is to eat and decimate land, and as the scriptures symbolically point out, it includes people, who refuse to repent from the works of their hands, as is the case in Joel. 
“Let the priests, who minister to the Lord,
Weep between the porch and the altar;
Let them say, “Spare Your people, O Lord,
And do not give Your heritage to reproach,
That the nations should rule over them.
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘Where is their God?’ ”  Joel 2:17
The locust “army” that rules over the nation of “Israel” today, and that wears “crowns” (Rev 9:7) is the nation of “Gentile” elders, who rule over the anointed ones/”Israel” – blaspheming the sanctuary of God by putting His anointed “in their place”, using lies about them to do so.  Rev 13:5-8   The organization/idol is far more important to all JWs, than God’s Temple/House of “living stones” in the anointed priesthood.  1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22
“So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” Rev 13:4
 
But, Arauna, we’ve been down this road before, haven’t we.  And even though you have seen that your leaders preach a “truth” that never was a truth, you continue to support them, and the rotten fruit they teach. Matt 7:15-20  Their failed teachings never brought one iota of quality spiritual "life" to the poor JW who swallowed them down.  

Yes, your blind leaders gave that illustration of lions.   Remember, it is the same leadership who for years believed God’s anointed were Joel’s locusts, but you still put your trust in them.    You may want to search the scriptures to find for yourself just one instance where locusts, and especially a swarm of locust, have even one redeeming quality. 
Both the locusts in Joel and Revelation give emphasis on their ability to eat and destroy with their teeth.    
Joel 2:6 - A nation has invaded My land,
    a mighty army without number;
it has the teeth of a lion,
    the fangs of a lioness.
Rev 9:7-11 - The locusts looked like horses prepared for battle. On their heads they wore something like crowns of gold, and their faces resembled human faces. 8 Their hair was like women’s hair, and their teeth were like lions’ teeth. 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 stingers, 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).
“ Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”  1 Pet 5:8,9
“devour” - to drink down, i.e. gulp entire (literally or figuratively):—devour, drown, swallow (up).
Who does Satan come against in Revelation?  Jesus’ “kings” under the New Covenant promise/”woman”, who are not sealed.  (Rev 1:5)
See: Gal 4:24,26; Rev 9:4; 12:15; 16:13-17
Jesus, as the Lion of Judah does not destroy people, but only death. 1 Cor 15:26  He does not use deception, as if to capture a prey. Col 2:8; Rev 13:10
Rev 5:5 - "Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
“overcome” – “conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory.”
The victory over death by the sacrifice of his life. 
You leader’s comment regarding the mention of both Jesus and Satan described as lions to validate his argument that there can be a good locust army, and a wicked locust army, is futile.    A locust swarm has only one characteristic, which is to eat and decimate land, and as the scriptures symbolically point out, it includes people, who refuse to repent from the works of their hands, as is the case in Joel. 
“Let the priests, who minister to the Lord,
Weep between the porch and the altar;
Let them say, “Spare Your people, O Lord,
And do not give Your heritage to reproach,
That the nations should rule over them.
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘Where is their God?’ ”  Joel 2:17
The locust “army” that rules over the nation of “Israel” today, and that wears “crowns” (Rev 9:7) is the nation of “Gentile” elders, who rule over the anointed ones/”Israel” – blaspheming the sanctuary of God by putting His anointed “in their place”, using lies about them to do so.  Rev 13:5-8   The organization/idol is far more important to all JWs, than God’s Temple/House of “living stones” in the anointed priesthood.  1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22
“So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” Rev 13:4
 
But, Arauna, we’ve been down this road before, haven’t we.  And even though you have seen that your leaders preach a “truth” that never was a truth, you continue to support them, and the rotten fruit they teach. Matt 7:15-20  Their failed teachings never brought one iota of quality spiritual "life" to the poor JW who swallowed them down.  

I have to agree with one thing; the idea of it, is nauseating.  
I choose "tacky" and will pair it with "crafty", as in  "crafty promoters of religion"
Replace "Christendom" with...
This inability to attract people by the message preached prompts the thought that there must be something wrong with the religious fodder dished out from the pulpit to Christendom’s pew-sitters. If they are being served sound spiritual food, why should there be any lack of attraction, an apathetic flock? Could it be that there is a spiritual famine in the land called Christendom? But from the name Christendom assumes, one may imagine that it has an abundance of spiritual food. Yet when the clergy open their religious larders, the only abundance that presents itself is that of book reviews, tricks of magic, jazz bands, bingo games, lotteries, masquerade parties, coffee-and-doughnut socials, gas-filled balloons, and the buffoonery of circus clowns. So one may rightly ask, Has the spiritual famine foretold by God’s prophet blighted Christendom?—“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord Jehovah, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of Jehovah.”—Amos 8:11, AS.  w53 11/1 pp. 649-652
  The article ends by saying,
The message they bring (JWs) needs no crafty promotion, no help from devils, no enticements. For Jehovah’s witnesses “are not those who commercialize or make gain [adulterators] of the word of God as many men are.” (2 Cor. 2:17, footnote, NW) 
My, how times have changed.  

Moses – a prophet appointed as spokesperson for God. 
“Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34 I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.’35 “This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the wilderness.”  Acts 7:36,37
The Pharisees – They were not prophets but sat in Moses’ seat, yet were condemned by Jesus because of their lies, their burdens put on the people, and their additional laws and decrees not sanctioned by God.
 
Jesus Christ – a prophet, the King of righteousness, the Son of God. 
 
37 “This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’ 38 He was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors; and he received living words to pass on to us.”  Acts 7:37,38
Where does the Governing Body fit in? Are they “like” Moses?  Or, would that be Jesus Christ?  The GB fit in in as the modern-day Pharisees, who add to the scriptures with their additional laws and decrees, their false teachings and burdens put upon the people. 
You not only seem to make light of the role of Moses as an aggravating personality,  but you have put GB in the seat of Moses, when God has already given us Jesus Christ – “a prophet” like Moses. 
A follower of Jesus would not tolerate any lies that  may be called "truth", from any leader. Matt 7:15-20; 2 Thess 2:9-12
 How did the GB decide they were the “faithful and discreet slave”/house “steward”?  Were they appointed by Jesus Christ?
 “However, further careful study and prayerful meditation indicate that our understanding of Jesus’ words about the faithful and discreet slave needs to be clarified.” W 13/7/15  pp 20-25
“clarified”…which was added to the long list of “Beliefs Clarified”; all requiring careful study and prayerful meditation.  How many flip-flops of just one doctrine on that list required changing over the years, but during its heyday was called "truth"?  How many people were held reliable to upholding a facade called "truth"?  
These men are not prophets, and not inspired. Yet, this “careful study and prayerful meditation” somehow led to a most definite appointment by Jesus Christ without any involvement of inspiration; which Moses most definitely received from God during his entire assignment.    
“Now, fellow Israelites, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. 18 But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer. 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23 Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from their people.’  Acts 3:17-23
 
 
 
 

Moses – a prophet appointed as spokesperson for God. 
“Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34 I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.’35 “This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the wilderness.”  Acts 7:36,37
The Pharisees – They were not prophets but sat in Moses’ seat, yet were condemned by Jesus because of their lies, their burdens put on the people, and their additional laws and decrees not sanctioned by God.
 
Jesus Christ – a prophet, the King of righteousness, the Son of God. 
 
37 “This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’ 38 He was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors; and he received living words to pass on to us.”  Acts 7:37,38
Where does the Governing Body fit in? Are they “like” Moses?  Or, would that be Jesus Christ?  The GB fit in in as the modern-day Pharisees, who add to the scriptures with their additional laws and decrees, their false teachings and burdens put upon the people. 
You not only seem to make light of the role of Moses as an aggravating personality,  but you have put GB in the seat of Moses, when God has already given us Jesus Christ – “a prophet” like Moses. 
A follower of Jesus would not tolerate any lies that  may be called "truth", from any leader. Matt 7:15-20; 2 Thess 2:9-12
 How did the GB decide they were the “faithful and discreet slave”/house “steward”?  Were they appointed by Jesus Christ?
 “However, further careful study and prayerful meditation indicate that our understanding of Jesus’ words about the faithful and discreet slave needs to be clarified.” W 13/7/15  pp 20-25
“clarified”…which was added to the long list of “Beliefs Clarified”; all requiring careful study and prayerful meditation.  How many flip-flops of just one doctrine on that list required changing over the years, but during its heyday was called "truth"?  How many people were held reliable to upholding a facade called "truth"?  
These men are not prophets, and not inspired. Yet, this “careful study and prayerful meditation” somehow led to a most definite appointment by Jesus Christ without any involvement of inspiration; which Moses most definitely received from God during his entire assignment.    
“Now, fellow Israelites, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. 18 But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer. 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23 Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from their people.’  Acts 3:17-23
 
 
 
 

I guess how "spirituality" has nothing with organized religion, or in other words, individual not necessary need to be under The System of religious Doctrines and Hierarchy to gain spirituality and to please god.
Also, many individuals have some gifts to be "spiritual leaders", or "political leaders" or "leaders" in some sport team or on construction ground while making building or in some project for new toaster or phone. 
I don't denying your's or anyone else "right" to take role of "religious leaders". If GB or WT elders have need to be "leaders" or in role as instruments, tools for implementing decisions of decision makers. What i have is right to put in question your position, or position of your "religious leaders". And to give some observation about structure and policy in such "religious arrangement". 
With comparing "religious authorities" aka GB with "secular authorities" i put, for public conversation, question: who is on higher position? GB or Secular Authorities? Who of these two group, JW members need to obey more? 
I suggest not to respond with general neutral answer: "We must obey god more than men", because that would mean and would clearly point to next level: JW members are NOT Obligated to obey WTJWorg GB doctrines and instructions. Because of same reasons revealed in primary answer made by Peter. Many ex-JW and many of existing JW's are aware of wrong doctrines and policies and instructions made by their leaders. Question for such JW members is "Who do they obey more?".
If JW members are not obligated to submit and obey every (non) "inspired utterance" from GB mouth why JW's members have problem to openly talk about it in private or little groups or on congregational meetings? Why they have fear from men and not from god? That is fundamental question here. JW's are not in fear if they go to prison because of "bible principles". How come to that that they have fear of that they will be dfd because of "things" and "bible principles" which are undoubtedly in sphere of "individual spirituality" and conscience, about so many err and wrong doctrines they have to obey and preach to other people? 
If you are ready to promote any sort of disobedience to "secular authorities" because of religious arguments, than you have to be ready to promote same sort of disobedience to "religious authorities and leaders" in own Church, because of same reason. 
 
 

"Lackey" is a rather rude term for someone who has a different belief than your own, don't you think?   Keep in mind, if there is anyone who may agree with me in anything, I don't write their name down, or keep a file on them, remember their "sins", admonish them NOT to "make sure of all things" (1 Thess 5:19-22), or to  beg for donations to support my work.  Approximately 8 million or less (should I call them "lackeys"?) do just that for your GB and their idol.  Rev 13:1,2, 5-11, 15-18

by Merriam-Webster:
Definition of lackey
 (Entry 1 of 2)
1a: FOOTMAN sense 2, SERVANT
b: someone who does menial tasks or runs errands for another
2: a servile follower : TOADY
 
Definition of footman
1aarchaic : a traveler on foot : PEDESTRIAN
b: INFANTRYMAN
2a: a servant in livery formerly attending a rider or required to run in front of his master's carriage
b: a servant who serves at table, tends the door, and runs errands
 
Definition of toady
 (Entry 1 of 2)
: one who flatters in the hope of gaining favors : SYCOPHAN
 
Definition of sycophant
: a servile self-seeking flatterer

God has not given any authority to the GB or the rest of the Leaders of the CCJW. Even the GB admit to NOT BEING inspired by God's Holy Spirit, and they admit that they 'err', or deliberately do wrong. 
They used to pretend that Elders were appointed by Holy Spirit, but now they admit that Elders are NOT appointed by Holy spirit. 
The GB have back tracked on many things. They constantly change the 'teachings' through the Watchtower. 
The GB also deliberately 'forget' that the 'Body of Christ' are 'FELLOW SLAVES', and the GB use the Elders to control those FELLOW SLAVES. Those FELLOW SLAVES are told not to meet together and not to have Bible study together.
AND, disgustingly, the GB accuse their FELLOW SLAVES of 'working against the Holy Spirit'. 
You of course serve your GB and are therefore blinded by their trickery and falsehood. Go careful, blind guides is what they are and you will all fall into the pit. You will have no excuse when Judgement arrives. 
 

"Lackey" is a rather rude term for someone who has a different belief than your own, don't you think?   Keep in mind, if there is anyone who may agree with me in anything, I don't write their name down, or keep a file on them, remember their "sins", admonish them NOT to "make sure of all things" (1 Thess 5:19-22), or to  beg for donations to support my work.  Approximately 8 million or less (should I call them "lackeys"?) do just that for your GB and their idol.  Rev 13:1,2, 5-11, 15-18

It has everything to do with the GB, false witnesses. (Rev 13:11) They are not Christ, but they give the elder body the authority to judge another's spirituality.  
John 16:2; Rev 13:15
 

“Evidently” it was an organizational decision, and it seemed “reasonable to conclude” that “slave” only applies to those with authoritative power already set in place.  Whomever they choose, or vote in, become a "slave".  

It has everything to do with the GB, false witnesses. (Rev 13:11) They are not Christ, but they give the elder body the authority to judge another's spirituality.  
John 16:2; Rev 13:15
 

“Evidently” it was an organizational decision, and it seemed “reasonable to conclude” that “slave” only applies to those with authoritative power already set in place.  Whomever they choose, or vote in, become a "slave".  

Absolutely. WTJWorg study magazines and other publications with GB as Main Doctrinal Body who giving interpretations on Bible text forgetting reality: Between good and bad, between black and white is wide specter of details and variations. 
But they want only one picture about themselves to be visible and applicable on them. Positive and "imperfectly perfect"picture. Because of such illusion and wrong self perception they are not able to see how their policy and leadership contributes in fulfillment of second part (impossible to be part, as they say) about "evil slave". 
And here we came to second issue. No one appointed them to be in that role of "slave" - good or evil. They choose to be in that role by own free will.  
 

No, it’s a component of Matt 10:35
NKJV:  “For I have come to ‘set[j] a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’”
[j] “alienate”
 dee-khad'-zo; from a derivative of G1364; to make apart, i.e. sunder (figuratively, alienate):—set at variance.
Usage:  to cut into two parts, cleave asunder, sever

Dear @Arauna,
Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to ‘set (“alienate”) a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36 and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ 37 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.  Matt 10:34-39 
This is being fulfilled in the Watchtower organization, the place that promotes a false sense of “peace and security”. (1 Thess 5:3)  Those who follow Christ and not men, “lose” their life and family that they had known, through disfellowshipping. 
Jesus began ruling since the first century; at the end of Armageddon, he will “deliver the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.”  1 Cor 15:24
Then, the Kingdom of God begins.  We cannot follow and obey Jesus Christ and obey all the rules and regulations of false prophets also.  2 Cor 6:14-18  If you truly care to follow Christ, and speak for his truth, in no time at all you also would be spiritually "killed" by your leaders.  Rev 13:15  Once you lose that life, solely for the sake of Christ...you will find eternal life.  Only then, will you experience the peace Jesus Christ offers us.    Matt 11:28
"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."  Matt 5:11,12
It is your organization which has authority and power over JWs and God's anointed ones, that consistently persecutes people, and teaches its members to do the same. 
Unlike your "slave", I have no followers.  Jesus does.   
 
 

I don’t believe I have made the claim that I know everything, but this is a deep-seated belief of mine, which anyone can accept or reject.  It was an anointed brother who brought this to my attention quite a few years ago.  That’s right, a brother who also was ousted by the organization for rejecting falsehoods.  (John 16:2; Rev 13:15) Besides, I think we both know that Arauna (it was she that received my comment) listens to whom she chooses when it fits her agenda, and pushes that agenda pretty strongly.   Her belief system is a hodgepodge of her own theories and prophesies, mixed with teachings of the governing body.   She claims her worldly experience attributes to her prophetic knowledge.  (1 Cor 2:13,14)  Yet, according to her, whatever I offer is poison and will kill anyone who accepts what I might say.   She, on the other hand, who gives her own slant to the GB teachings is “safe” in the organization since she speaks highly of the very men she may disagree with.  And, she is a staunch believer in the 1914 debacle. As many JWs do, she gives “testimony” about her god, “Jehovah” and his organization, instead of Jesus Christ. (Isa 46:5)
If you want to believe that God decided to send his Holy Spirit on individuals to change how the tetrgrammaton should be dealt with and pronounced, as Arauna indicates, that’s your choice.  It was  written down in the inspired scriptures years before the invention of “Jehovah” emerged. She seems to indicate that somehow God was shamed until this point, which would include the time Jesus was on earth and the way he taught us to approach the Father.  Because of this, the scriptures apparently needed adjusting, even though we are not to add or take away from the Word of God.  Regardless, the Watchtower decided the scriptures require the fabricated name “Jehovah” to be inserted, even in places where the tetragrammaton never existed in the holy scriptures. I am not saying other translations don’t use “Jehovah”, but WT’s leaders seem to think it needs to flood His word a good 7,000 times. And they make sure they brag about it. 
 Possibly, it is just opposite of what JWs/Arauna believes. What if God has exposed what His people have done by embracing not only a made up name that actually disgraces the meaning of the tetragrammaton, but a man-made organization that demeans the true Zion/Temple of God in the anointed priesthood. (Dan 7:7; 11:38; Rev 13:1-8; 11:1-3,7; 1 Cor 3:16,17)  These are pieces of the puzzle that Satan the Destroyer, has devised to deceive the remnant into believing a lie. (Rev 16:13-16; Joel 3:14)     Arauna quotes Joel 2:26. The locust army came against God’s people because of their sins. (Joel 2:12,13)  God’s name then and now, is “shamed” by the actions of His anointed priesthood, and those with them,  who profess to know Him, but choose to listen to the assumed authority and power of men and their falsehoods, instead of listening to their Master, Jesus Christ.  (Matt 24:48-51; Rev 18:4-8)
 
 
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-name.html
 
 

I don’t believe I have made the claim that I know everything, but this is a deep-seated belief of mine, which anyone can accept or reject.  It was an anointed brother who brought this to my attention quite a few years ago.  That’s right, a brother who also was ousted by the organization for rejecting falsehoods.  (John 16:2; Rev 13:15) Besides, I think we both know that Arauna (it was she that received my comment) listens to whom she chooses when it fits her agenda, and pushes that agenda pretty strongly.   Her belief system is a hodgepodge of her own theories and prophesies, mixed with teachings of the governing body.   She claims her worldly experience attributes to her prophetic knowledge.  (1 Cor 2:13,14)  Yet, according to her, whatever I offer is poison and will kill anyone who accepts what I might say.   She, on the other hand, who gives her own slant to the GB teachings is “safe” in the organization since she speaks highly of the very men she may disagree with.  And, she is a staunch believer in the 1914 debacle. As many JWs do, she gives “testimony” about her god, “Jehovah” and his organization, instead of Jesus Christ. (Isa 46:5)
If you want to believe that God decided to send his Holy Spirit on individuals to change how the tetrgrammaton should be dealt with and pronounced, as Arauna indicates, that’s your choice.  It was  written down in the inspired scriptures years before the invention of “Jehovah” emerged. She seems to indicate that somehow God was shamed until this point, which would include the time Jesus was on earth and the way he taught us to approach the Father.  Because of this, the scriptures apparently needed adjusting, even though we are not to add or take away from the Word of God.  Regardless, the Watchtower decided the scriptures require the fabricated name “Jehovah” to be inserted, even in places where the tetragrammaton never existed in the holy scriptures. I am not saying other translations don’t use “Jehovah”, but WT’s leaders seem to think it needs to flood His word a good 7,000 times. And they make sure they brag about it. 
 Possibly, it is just opposite of what JWs/Arauna believes. What if God has exposed what His people have done by embracing not only a made up name that actually disgraces the meaning of the tetragrammaton, but a man-made organization that demeans the true Zion/Temple of God in the anointed priesthood. (Dan 7:7; 11:38; Rev 13:1-8; 11:1-3,7; 1 Cor 3:16,17)  These are pieces of the puzzle that Satan the Destroyer, has devised to deceive the remnant into believing a lie. (Rev 16:13-16; Joel 3:14)     Arauna quotes Joel 2:26. The locust army came against God’s people because of their sins. (Joel 2:12,13)  God’s name then and now, is “shamed” by the actions of His anointed priesthood, and those with them,  who profess to know Him, but choose to listen to the assumed authority and power of men and their falsehoods, instead of listening to their Master, Jesus Christ.  (Matt 24:48-51; Rev 18:4-8)
 
 
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-name.html
 
 

@Julie Bayley maybe the reason you are shocked is because these things are kept hidden by the Elders in the congregations. I hope you are aware that this type of thing is happening Earthwide in the JW Org.
If you are not aware then I suggest you do a Google search for Jehovah's Witnesses Child Sexual Abuse.
You will be horrified at what you find out. 

But TTH says 'No one can disfellowship the GB'. And it has been proven that their Lawyers are dishonest.
Therefore any changes will have to be 'authorised' from much 'higher up'. 
May the God of Heaven and Earth show mercy to HIS true followers and bring in justice, truth and guidance soon.  I think cases such as this, and there are many more of them,  prove the need for a True Anointed to guide and protect Almighty God's people. 
As for the GB / CCJW maybe this applies :- Revelation 2. v 4 & 5
 Nevertheless, I hold this against you, that you have left the love you had at first.5  “‘Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first. If you do not, I will come to you, and I will remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.
English Standard Version
But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. 
But I fear that all those with 'power and authority' within CCJW will not listen, not even to God through Christ.
 
 

@Witness & @Srecko Sostar  you have both got me thinking on this now. 
It is very interesting and it will get me re-reading the Greek Scriptures once again but from a different viewpoint. 
However the NWT is what I've been using and now I'm thinking I need a different translation of God's Word. 
The NWT does alter words to suit there own agenda, so a comparison would be nice, but in hard copy. 
I know lots are available to read online but It would be great to get away from this screen and maybe read in the garden. 
 
 

Yes, very interesting subject. We have to remind us how first Christians, or Jesus' followers, Jesus' disciples, put their life, didn't want to reject their faith in Jesus, because of Jesus, and not because of JHVH.  
First followers (not JHVH's followers but Jesus' followers) gave their lives because they did not want to deny their faith in Jesus. They did not want to give up the name of Jesus. The name JHVH was not  the name they want to defend and protect. 
The name Jesus brings some controversy. Interestingly and contrary of what we generally might think and what we perhaps didn't say clearly enough with right wording, but: followers of JHVH name persecuted people who been followers of Jesus name. This giving specific dimension to issue and contribute  to your reasoning and explanation about modern scene and how JHVH Organization operate in the Name of God (FDS, anointed individuals etc). 

I believe they certainly suffer an imbalance.  I feel that to be a true witness to truth requires being a witness not only for God, but also for Jesus, who is truth. (John 14:6; 17:17)   The Old Testament prophets were God’s witnesses who bore testimony also of Jesus Christ, by speaking God’s word about him.  Rev 19:10; (Jer 5:14) We know Jesus is God’s “faithful and true witness” (Rev 1:5; 3:14) to truth, and those priests/members of his Body are also to be God’s “witnesses” to truth.
“You are my witnesses”—
this is the Lord’s declaration—
“and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
No god was formed before me,
and there will be none after me.”  Isa 43:10
The people I formed for myself
will declare my praise.  Isa 43:21
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”  1 Pet 2:9
 
So again, I feel being a “witness” of God requires giving “testimony of Jesus” – to his words of TRUTH. Adding to his words nullifies in one's mind, not only truth, but Christ’s witness and testimony.  It also nullifies that person becoming or existing as a faithful and true “witness” of God.  It is sad to see this in the organization, where truth has no foothold, since falsehoods have been taught to thousands over the years. (how do they dismiss affecting so many lives, so easily? how can those leaders sleep, knowing that they taught people to live a lie?)  
Truth from Christ is sterling, not corroded in any way; not needing a polishing up to make it acceptable.  John 6:27; Rev 3:18
Since Jesus and the Father are one, a true priest/“witness” would be one in truth with them.  To his disciples:
“Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.” Luke 10:16
 “All things havebeen entrusted to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son desires to reveal him.” Luke 10:22
Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.  John 14:6
JWs will disagree, but Jesus is subtly rejected in the organization, so the concerted effort is on “Jehovah”. This is how JWs have learned from their leaders, to “witness”.  Yet, who can know the Father except for those who approach Christ?  Is that even possible for JWs?
Absolutely not. Wt 20/4/pp 20-25
“The second challenge is that we are not able to speak to Jesus. When we pray, we direct our thoughts to Jehovah. True, we do pray in Jesus’ name, but we do not talk directly to him. In fact, Jesus does not want us to pray to him. Why not? Because prayer is a form of worship, and only Jehovah should be worshipped. (Matt. 4:10) Even so, we can express our love for Jesus.
There we go.  One scripture that is to prove we cannot speak to Jesus; even though in that one scripture, Jesus was talking to Satan, telling HIM to worship the Father only.   No man, no person, was in the conversation.  It had to do with the war that began between them in Genesis 3:15.  So, from one scripture they say Jesus does not want us to pray to him.  Incredible!  
Jesus is totally cut out of the life of JWs; and the anointed members of his body who are silenced, have been cut off from their Head.  Their restriction from speaking with Jesus shows lawlessness is active and causing spiritual 'disaster' in the organization. 2 Thess 2:9-12  It is not much different than the Pharisees rejecting Christ, only this time, Wt’s leaders preach “another Jesus”.  2 Cor 11:4
 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You lock up the kingdom of heaven from people. For you don’t go in, and you don’t allow those entering to go in.”
  “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to make one proselyte, and when he becomes one, you make him twice the son of Gehenna as you are!”   Matt 23:13-15
How can JWs understand what it means to give a testimony of Jesus Christ, when they have no relationship with him?  And who doesn't want us to have a relationship with Christ?  It is the same powerful individual that wants us to bow down and worship him, instead of God and Christ.