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Witness

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  1. Like
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in Edinburgh Residents targeted with handwritten letters from child members of Jehovah's Witnesses brand the move 'sick   
    WHO are God's true "witnesses"?  All JWs?  Or, His holy priesthood that is not recognized as a priesthood in the organization?   Isa 43:10; 1 Pet 2:5,9; Rev 17:4; Rev 5:9,10
    There is no hate.  If "Jehovah" was to be taught as God's name, Jesus would have made that name known.
    Are you putting the Almighty God on par with people?  Again, the example we use  in addressing God, is Jesus.  
  2. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in Edinburgh Residents targeted with handwritten letters from child members of Jehovah's Witnesses brand the move 'sick   
    Uttering a hybrid name created in the 16th century makes more of an impression on you than calling God, “Father” as Jesus did?  Or, it makes more of an impression on you than the tetragrammaton…
    Or, the name given to Moses when he asked,
    “Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them?
    14 And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.
    15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is My name for ever, and this is My memorial unto all generations.”  Exod 3:13-15
     
     Maybe, instead of concentrating on a literal contrived name, as a "mark" of faithfulness to God,  there are those who have left the organization who seek to know more behind the true name.  They respect Him as Jesus set the example, by personally approaching in Him in prayer, as "Father".   Matt 6:9-13
     
     
  3. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in Edinburgh Residents targeted with handwritten letters from child members of Jehovah's Witnesses brand the move 'sick   
    Uttering a hybrid name created in the 16th century makes more of an impression on you than calling God, “Father” as Jesus did?  Or, it makes more of an impression on you than the tetragrammaton…
    Or, the name given to Moses when he asked,
    “Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them?
    14 And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.
    15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is My name for ever, and this is My memorial unto all generations.”  Exod 3:13-15
     
     Maybe, instead of concentrating on a literal contrived name, as a "mark" of faithfulness to God,  there are those who have left the organization who seek to know more behind the true name.  They respect Him as Jesus set the example, by personally approaching in Him in prayer, as "Father".   Matt 6:9-13
     
     
  4. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    It was still a CHOICE, just as it was a CHOICE not to cooperate with the redress scheme to begin with.  Obviously, money is more important than reaching out to help the victims.
  5. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    This video begins with a skit of two elders determining how to handle the change of “rules” by the organization, to now become part of the ARC redress scheme.  The point is made that the heavy responsibility to address and explain the about-face stance taken by the governing leaders, will fall on the local elder body.  It clicked with me that the slow simmering brew building against the organization’s “faithful and discreet slave” ( more precisely “wicked slave” Matt 24:48-51) is rapidly moving to the boiling point.  In the skit, the elder ends a follow-up  conversation by announcing he has turned in his “Flock” book. 
    How much more will the “Beast” (organization/elder body)  and “Ten kings” (anointed who have not received their crown from Jesus Christ)…tolerate the “Harlot”, before turning on her and exposing her sins?  (Rev 13:1,2,11,12; 17:12,13,17)
    The speaker stated:
    “One of the things you will notice if you look back through the Jehovah’s Witnesses history, if an issue involves you and I, where we were going to suffer for it, the Wt told us to take the hit, take the pain.  But if it involves something where the organization is going to take the hit, the Wt. has no problem revising the rules. 
    This is an organization that does not really care about its people, it only cares about itself.”
    Who is at the helm of the organization presently, changing the rules on a whim and expecting the elder body to “apologize” for it? 
     "Jezebel"
     
     
  6. Like
    Witness reacted to JW Insider in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    Thanks for taking the time to clarify your position. I'm not agreeing, but I understand your belief much better.
  7. Like
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    Yes, private handling with private lawyers can bring other results. I see that you speaking about "genuine victims". So "fake victims" will enter ARC program to get some money that will not be received in private lawsuit? And do you think how Redress Commission collects cases without checking?
    Do you want us to believe that JW lawyers who representing WTJWorg are more honest than those lawyers who representing opposite side? :))
    Sounds fair to me. Problem is if you have a very old car, so insurance declares total damage for what is not total damage at all. The reason is that the price of a vehicle of that year on the market is lower than the price of a turn signal and a headlight, so to speak. ;))
  8. Upvote
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    The organisation says it will sign up because of new rules introduced by the federal government, which mean it would lose its charity status - and subsequent tax exemptions - for continuing to hold out.
    "Now that the law requires charities to join the scheme, Jehovah's Witnesses will comply," it said in a statement to AAP on Wednesday.
    "Jehovah's Witnesses believe that it is their responsibility before God to respect and co-operate with the authorities." - https://7news.com.au/politics/jehovahs-witnesses-to-join-redress-scheme-c-2278906.amp?fbclid=IwAR1LpqH2VhAS6zdSCrRi_PIE4G_TGS3HbLMl4Thai6GrUEAiqMWchS3-bgA   The organisation says it will sign up because of new rules introduced by the federal government, which mean it would lose its charity status - and subsequent tax exemptions - for continuing to hold out.
    "Now that the law requires charities to join the scheme, Jehovah's Witnesses will comply," it said in a statement to AAP on Wednesday.
    "Jehovah's Witnesses believe that it is their responsibility before God to respect and co-operate with the authorities." -
     https://au.news.yahoo.com/jehovahs-witnesses-join-redress-scheme-061052602.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJ9pgYa7pNtBc_oEWG53LZETBGtFA4Fadn2IXb5actDJqmXVSObESwZZAoG8-IMh2QzGj3mJAELSBLT_Sf3D2euPAVmJQA9O2D_HT9p8XM1NY-rCd-MwnXj9DpiQ1DxsCCYH24OhIuAgSBRxHtFwN8YsmTnQnkVCxhn9xtzEsCsD
    WTJWorg have same choice as every JW in the world, to obey or disobey secular authorities. If something what secular government ask them to do, according to their beliefs they are not obligated to obey if God say opposite. 
    In this case "God told" them before few months NOT to join the scheme. And WTJWorg refused to join. Now, they reexamine Roman 13  and decide how "God say, join". How is possible that all those wise men in WTJWorg did not know what these verses instructed them to do from first minute?  
    They showed to the World again, It is all about Money! They CHOSE money instead principle; Let your Yes be Yes, and your No be No. ..............For whatever is more than these is from the evil one. Mat 5 37
  9. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in GB HELPER MARK NOUMAIR PRAISES EZRA   
    Around 50-60 years after the completion of the second temple, Ezra left Babylon in company with approximately 1700 exiles, and returned to Jerusalem. His time in Jerusalem brought about a spiritual reformation, the turning back to God’s laws. This man was both a priest and a scribe, excelling in both accounts. (Ezra 7:6,10) God had decreed to all His priests that it was their duty to know and teach His decrees to the people. (Deut 33:10; Mal 2:4-7) 
    Still, Ezra who was a direct descendant from Aaron, and apparently a close relative of Joshua - both high priests, was inspired by God to restore the knowledge of the law among His people, after the temple was rebuilt (Ezra 7:1-5). His position of knowing and copying the law was superior. A scribe’s responsibility was so great that if one mistake was made during copying, no matter how minor, the scroll was rejected and burned. Although, there are accounts that the scribes were not as diligent as Ezra, just as there are accounts that the priests neglected their duty to teach the law. (Jer 8:8; Mal 2:8,9; Hos 4:6). The priesthood’s role to teach God’s decrees eventually declined, with the scribes overtaking their priestly obligation to God. 
    Jesus accused the scribes or “lawyers” as they were called in his day, of interpreting God’s instructions as they wished.
    “Woe to you experts in the law! You have taken away the key to knowledge. You didn’t go in yourselves, and you hindered those who were trying to go in.” (Luke 11:52).
    These were guilty of perverting the word of God about the coming Messiah and substituting His laws for their traditions.
    A “Helper” of the organization’s governing leaders, spoke of Ezra in a short video recently, saying he was a “sterling example of faith and trust in God” and had “total reliance” in His word; which Ezra was, and practiced. I did find it strange, that although he said Ezra was well versed in the law and an excellent copyist, it was never mentioned that Ezra was a priest. (Ezra 7:11,12, 21; 10:10,16) It was never mentioned that the role of God’s priesthood was that of a spiritual leader who upheld the law and taught it to the children of Israel. (Lev 10:10,11; Deut 33:10; Ps 119:129,130) 
    The speaker elaborated on the preparations Ezra took to leave Babylon, and the difficulties he may have experienced by leaving his family and those he cared for, behind. He mentioned the treacherous four-month journey to Jerusalem, which required full confidence in God, that Ezra would be protected and those with him. (Ezra 7:9) Ezra’s name means, “YHVH has helped me”, and God certainly helped him lead his party safely to Jerusalem. God worked through King Artaxerxes to see that Ezra’s responsibility toward the Jewish people, was a success. (Ezra 7:13,14,25-28) 
    Once in Jerusalem, Ezra found that many Jews had married pagan wives. They had broken their covenant with God. (Ezra 9:1-3) Why was this such a grave sin? The lineage of the seed had to remain pure, to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. (Deut 7:3,4; Ezra 9:2; Gen 22:18; Heb 8:7,8,6,13; Matt 5:17; Acts 13:23,32; Gal 3:16) 
    The Jews had apparently forgotten that the reason they were taken captive into Babylon, was for falling into the idolatry of the nations. (Ezek 20:15,16; Jer 25:3-7) Soon after their freedom from Babylon, Ezra found the Jews marrying into an idolatrous nation. We witness through God’s word how devastated Ezra was at this news, a faithful priest who had based his entire life on God’s decrees. (Ezra 9:3-7) As he prayed, the peopled gathered and confessed their sins. (Ezra 10;1-4) 
    The organization’s Helper then said,
    “That’s why we love Ezra. He consults the law of Jehovah. That was his love, that was his first priority. He didn’t consult the arithmetic, the astronomy, the history, the chronology, the geography of Babylon. No, it was the law of Jehovah. In fact, Ezra had deep respect for that law of Jehovah…it shows he was a deep student of God’s word."
    He quoted Ps 119:18. It is said that Ezra wrote Psalm 119, which gives extensive praise to the laws of God. 
    Oh, the comparisons we could make to the organization, its teachings and the priesthood that was obviously disregarded by the speaker. We have major spiritual similarities to the book of Ezra, both with God’s people held captive in Babylon, and the events that occurred in Jerusalem while the temple was being rebuilt. God’s people inside the organization are held captive within “Babylon”.
    Visualize that in each hand, you hold a different promise – a covenant. These two covenants are distinct and opposite from each other. Each promise is symbolized as a “woman” – a mother. (Gen 3:15; Gal 4:24) “Babylon” is the name of the promise “woman” leading to death. (Isa 28:15; Prov 5:3-6; 7:24-27; Rev 17:5) 
    If you were peer closely into this covenant “woman” you hold, you will see only endless darkness, which has its source in lies and deceit. (Prov 4:19; Isa 28:7,8; John 8:44; Eph 6:12; James 1:15; 1 John 3:8) 
    If we grasp this covenant to live our life by, we cannot distinguish between the truth in Jesus Christ and the lie spoken by the evil one and his agents, who are the “harlot” daughters, the servants of this “woman”. We have chosen folly instead of wisdom from God. (Prov 9:13-18; 14:11,12; John 12:40;Matt 24:24; Mark 7:21-23; Matt 7:15,16; 2 Cor 4:4; 1 Tim 4:1,2; 2 Pet 2:1,2; Rev 2:20; 8:11; 13:1,2,11,12; 16:13,14; 12:15; 17:1-5) 
    We will have entered a covenant with Satan, becoming children or “seed” of this promise of bondage and death. (Gen 3:15; Deut 32:5; Prov 30:12; 2 Thess 2:9-12; Rev 9:2,11; John 10:10; 8:44; Isa 33:1) 
    The other hand is holding the promise of endless light, knowledge, wisdom and eternal life. (Prov 2:1-6; 3:13,17,18,21,22; John 8:12; John 14:6; 2 Tim 1:10; John 10:10; 12:46; Matt 11:29) 
    This woman is the New Covenant promise or “Jerusalem above”/”New Jerusalem”. (Gen 3:15; Gal 4:24,26; Heb 11:10,13,16; Rev 12:1,2;21:1-3) 
    Her “daughters”, would bring the truth of Christ to those who desire to know and obey the Father, and the Son who offers eternal life. (Prov 3:18; 8:7,8;11:20,30; John 13:20; Matt 7:18-20;Gal 4:26,28; 3:29; Heb 12:22,23 Rev 3:12) 
    Our choice of which promise we take hold of, is based on our heart’s desires. (Prov 8:4,5; 15:14; 1 Cor 4:5; Heb 4:12) 
     
    Satan empowers his agents (messengers/angels) with his power of deception
    and death (gives key to the abyss);
    (Then Wormwood gives that power and authority to the "locust-scorpions" under her -Rev.9:3,19; 13:14-15,12; 19:20) 
    Christ empowers his agents (messengers/angels), with his power of Truth and Life (symbolized by the keys to the kingdom and release from the power of the abyss of deception and death -Rev.11:3; 12:6,14)
    (Matt.16:19; John20:23; Luke10:19; 21:15; 2Cor.10:4,5; Rev.12:7) (Acts26:18; 1Tim.4:16). 
    These two forces (truth/deception) collide, and result in Armageddon (Rev.16:13-16; 17:14). 
    Who has the "key" to the abyss?
     
    Where in the scheme of things, are God’s holy people in “rebuilding” the Temple of God? (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Heb 3:6; 1 Tim 3:15) Indeed, the “living stones”/dwelling of God lies in ruins, resulting from decrees enforced by the organization. (Dan 8:11,13; 9:26; Luke 19:42-44) 
    In the 1980’s and before, there was mention of a “symbolic temple-building work” carried out by the anointed priests. It appeared that for a time, the priesthood was somewhat recognized. This has gradually evolved into ‘organization-building work’, with God’s priests replaced and silenced, by a hierarchy of elders. This means the Temple of God has been trampled…conquered…by a dual power, that expects the scattered “living stones” to remain subservient to an idol. (Mark 13:14; 2 Thess 2:3,4; Rev 11:1,2) 
    Obviously in this situation, the law of God through Jesus Christ is not the “first priority” of the organization’s leadership. If this were true, the priesthood that resides with JWs, would be consulted to teach the word of God, and the temple would continue to “build”. (1 Pet 2:5; 1 Cor 3:9-11; Eph 2:20-22) By keeping the anointed priesthood subdued and in check, the key to knowledge of God’s word in Christ has been taken away. (Luke 11:52) The laws “written on their heart” are rejected for the decrees of men. (Heb 8:10) Elders of a “Gentile” nation, such as the Helper, are consulted instead. (Dan 11:16) This man may be anointed, but that possibility is very slim. His “law book” contains additions and deletions to Christ’s teachings. Always, the organization’s decrees are the priority over those of God. (Dan 8:10-12; Matt 23:15,24) 
    The elder “scribes” are those who need to consult the law of God. It would do the elder good to understand that no one, at no time can replace God’s priesthood or serve in His Temple. (Num 18:7;2 Chron 13:9; Ezek 44:6-9; Lam 1:10; 1 Cor 3:16,17) 
    The organization is well known for its driving interest in prophetic arithmatic calculations of Christ’s coming, the end of the Gentile times and Armageddon. These pursuits have consistently failed to lead them in truth. Their minds are set on the history, chronology, and geography of their own “Babylon”. Since the organization’s beginning, it has written books about its history; even creating an elaborate library with the timetable of development and world-wide scope of preaching. The legends of false prophets and teachers are preserved and exalted, while their teachings have been abandoned, most likely out of embarrassment over their folly. (Prov 9:13; John 15:4,16) 
    Is there a problem with intermarriage in the organization? On a spiritual level, yes; and it was prophesied to happen. “Israel” has entered a covenant with the nations, and broken their covenant in Christ. (Prov 20:20; Isa 1:21; 2 Pet 2:14; Rev 17:2) Through their obedience to men, they have rejected Jesus Christ as their Head. They have become slaves to an organizational idol, to men and to “Babylon”. (2 Cor 11:2-4; 6:14-16) 
    When speaking about Ezra’s reaction to the Jews marrying pagan women, the elder made a few off-the- cuff remarks:
    “You’re going to mingle the holy seed along with pagan women?” Jesus was the promised holy seed of the old Covenant. That promise was fulfilled. However, the members of Christ Body are also a “holy seed” who are enslaved to Harlot daughters of “Babylon” – pagan women who have misled them into Satan’s covenant of death. (Rom 8:14-17; Gal 3:29) (Deut 11:16; Col 2:8; Rev 13:10,4-8; 18:4) 
    “You’re going to assimilate the whole nation into a pagan environment?” Yes, the organization has assimilated the anointed into an idolatrous environment. To accomplish this, they must not bond together, or study the Bible together as a group; and are told their gift of Holy Spirit that God poured out into each heart upon anointing, ‘does not necessarily mean they have more holy spirt than any one else’. (Rom 5:5; 2 Cor 1:21,22; 1 John 2:27) Can you see how this holy priesthood has faded from existence in the organization? Can you see how God’s laws resulting in knowledge and wisdom also do not exist? This is supported by a governing leader stating there are no “gifts of the spirit” in our modern times. It seems that this “wicked steward” does not realize that a faithful steward appointed over God’s household is a “gift of the spirit”. (1 Cor 4:1; 12:4-6, 28; Rom 12:4-8; Eph 4:11-13; Col 1:25; Luke 12:42) 
    Effectively, who the anointed are as God’s “special possession” to offer sacrifices of praise as God’s priesthood, has been wiped out of the Bible by the false prophets and the scribes. (Isa 43:10; 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Deut 14:2) 
    By the grace of God, the Temple is being restored outside of “Babylon” the covenant of death - outside of the dark teachings of those under the covenant of death. (Ezra 10:10,11; Jer 23:16; Matt 24:24; Rev 13:11,12; 16:13-16; Mal 3:1-4; John 1:23; Matt 17:11; Rev 11:1-3; Zech 4:11-14) 
    There are priests who have prepared their heart to serve God and restore His laws fulfilled in Jesus Christ, by teaching the people God’s wisdom in Jesus Christ. (Deut 11:18; 6:8; Ezra 7:10; Mal 2:7; 1 Pet 2:5; Heb 13:15; Col 3:16; Rom 8:28) 
    They have made the difficult trek of leaving “Babylon” and its idolatry, to serve God and Christ whole-souled. Loved ones and friends have been left behind. (Isa 48:17,20;Jer 51:6; Deut 5:7; Mark 12:30; 10:29,30; Rev 18:4-8) 
    God is with them, and will continue to inspire and guide them in restoring the truth of His word in “New Jerusalem”. Rev 22:1-3 
    “Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.
    8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, 9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’"
    10 “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. Neh 1:5-10
     
    https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/
    Who is the "Woman"?
    The Seven Pillars of Wisdom
    End of the New Covenant
     
     
     
     

  10. Like
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in "Magadangate: A Governing Body member gets the gospels wrong!"   
    This is was written by apparently devout JWs who saw Jackson's demonstration:
    Did anyone noticed around minute 30, br. Jackson explains account of Jesus in John ch. 6.
    But in this explanation actually two different accounts of Jesus are mixed, one in Matt 15 where he feeds 4,000 people then takes a boat to Magadan, with the account in John chapter 6 where he feeds 5,000 and walks on water to Capernaum.
    In br. Jackson’s version of John 6, Jesus walks on water to Magadan, then treks to Capernaum on foot.
    Only John 6 never mentions Magadan. Magadan only appears in the separate account in Matt 15 where Jesus took a boat there.
    I've once again went carefully through "Jesus - The Way", chapters 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 just to be sure.
    These are definitely two different accounts. I've taken some text parts from "Jesus - The Way" chapters here:
    MATTHEW 14:13-21  MARK 6:30-44  LUKE 9:10-17  JOHN 6:1-13
    Jesus and his disciples went to Capernaum and head for an out-of-the-way place east of the Jordan River beyond Bethsaida. There will soon be about 5,000 men, and he will feed them all.
    MATTHEW 14:22-36  MARK 6:45-56  JOHN 6:14-25
    He then dismisses the crowds and instructs his disciples to get back in their boat. They are to head toward Bethsaida and then on to Capernaum. As for Jesus himself, he withdraws to the mountain to pray alone that night.
    After some time Jesus observes the boat from a distance. The waves of the sea are being whipped up by a strong wind, and the apostles are ‘struggling to row, for the wind is against them.’ (Mark 6:48) Jesus descends from the mountain and begins walking over the waves toward them.
    Soon they reach the plain of Gennesaret, south of Capernaum. Now Jesus is back on the western side of the sea, in the area of Capernaum.
    JOHN 6:25-71
    Jesus teaches in a synagogue in Capernaum.
    MATTHEW 15:21-31  MARK 7:24-37
    After having issues with the Jews, he heads for the regions of Tyre and Sidon in Phoenicia, many miles to the northwest.
    MATTHEW 15:32–16:12  MARK 8:1-21
    Then he goes to region of Decapolis (east side of Sea of Galilee). There he makes another miracle feeding 4.000 men.
    After Jesus sends the crowds away, he and the disciples cross by boat to Magadan, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Here, Pharisees accompanied by some of the sect of the Sadducees try to test Jesus, asking him to display a sign from heaven.
    Realizing what their motives are, Jesus replies his famous words: “When evening falls, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is fire-red,’ and in the morning, ‘It will be wintry, rainy weather today, for the sky is fire-red but gloomy.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but the signs of the times you cannot interpret.” (Matthew 16:2, 3)
    Then Jesus tells the Pharisees and Sadducees that no sign will be given them except the sign of Jonah.
    Jesus and his disciples get in a boat and head toward Bethsaida on the northeast shore of the sea.

     
    Another JW responded:
    I wondered about this too.  I tried to see if I was missing something that Bro Jackson presented but looking at the accounts it seems that after feeding the 4000 Jesus went to Magadan and after feeding the 5000 he went to Capernaum.  The walking on water took place after feeding the 5000.  Can we get to grips with this presentation? 
    You do know that the GB said it will take years to develop.  Is the time at hand, or not?
  11. Like
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    Since the authentic anointed are in the WT, Rev 18:4 (“my people”/”Israel”) cannot apply to those of other religions, but to God’s “saints”, God’s holy chosen people. (The whole of Isa 43;1 Pet 2:5,9)  (Dan 7:25; 12:7; Rev 13:7; 16:6; 20:9)
    "But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the LORD: I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people."  Heb 8:10
    Yes.
    Yes.  It was Satan.  Who is the dragon but Satan?  Who does the dragon pursue?  The “woman” New covenant (Gal 6:24,26) – which incorporates the anointed ones, the “kings of the earth” under Jesus Christ.  (Rev 1:5; chapter 12)
    How will he catch them? 
    How useless to spread a net where every bird can see it!  Prov 1:17
    Matt.13:
    47 “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. 48 When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets,  but threw the bad away. 49 This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous 50 and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
    This net is a snare – (Job 18:8; Ps 9:15; 10:9; 35:8; 140:5;Prov 3:25,26; Eccl 9:12; Isa 19:8; Isa 51:20)
    When God allowed the Jews to be captured and sent to Babylon, it was to discipline them for their sins. (Prov 3:11,12; 1 Tim 4:7; 2 Tim 2:15;Rev 3:18,19)  He removed His protection from them, and the enemies captured them. (Isa chapter 5) So yes, the organization is a “test” that Satan has devised. If the anointed refuse to repent for their choice of “idolatry” to the organization, they will not be sealed.  It is a source of discipline.  (Lam 1:13; Hab 1:15,16; Ezek 29:4; 38:4; Rev 9:7,3; Jer 51:14; Deut 28:42; Rev 13:7)
    An anointed one is given a token of Holy Spirit, which helps that one perceive truth. (1 John 2:27) The most basic core teachings of the Wt are enough to attract an anointed one into it.  The Kingdom, life on earth, the recognition of “Israel”, their reign with Christ, no hellfire, no trinity. These basic truths are the introduction offered in the preaching over the years.  The organization streamlined how to get this message out, almost world-wide. This method in its rough limited form was used by Herod when attempting to kill Jesus.  He accomplished it by going house to house.  There was no discretion used, all children of the age 2 and under were killed.  (Matt 2:16-18)  There is no discretion as to whom enter the Wt either.  This most likely is why Jesus told his disciples NOT to go house to house.  (Luke 10:7)
    We know that Satan’s time is “short”. (Rev 12:12)  (Yes, this is the only “short period of time” – there is not another one a thousand years into the Kingdom.  (1 Cor 15:25,26,54; Rev 21:4)   Since he intends to sift all of God’s saints “as wheat”, (Luke 22:31) what will he concentrate on?  The world’s governments and its inhabitants, or will he concentrate on deceiving those in Christ? (Rev 12:12,17; Ezek 21:21,22; Rev 13:1,4; 20:7,8; 16:13-16; 1 Tim 4:1; Rev 13:7,10; Col 2:8; Luke 21:24)
    The anointed become convinced that Jesus is directing the organization, and their trust is in the leadership and the organization itself. Once in, they take for granted that the spiritual food offered no matter how many times it has to be discarded, is from God.   They fail to “test the spirits”, this partly because of the teachings that God’s organization will remain no matter what, and to “wait on Jehovah” to correct its failures.   (1 John 4:1; 1 Thess 5:21)  They assume the leadership is sent by God and Christ.  (Matt 24:4,5,24,25; 7:15; Luke 12:42; Rev 8:10,11; Rev 13:11,12)
    I’m not saying it is a “good place” to pass through, but it is inevitable.  Satan will not have missed even one genuine anointed of the “sons of the kingdom”. (Matt 13:37-43; Luke 8:11-15; Mark 4:28,29; Eph 4:13) This is what the harvest is all about.  They all enter the Wt., and some are anointed while inside.  I am sure you’ve noticed the gradual change of the leadership’s teachings and power, the rise of an elder body of great number and the status of the anointed becoming nonexistent. It was predicted to occur. (Rev 16:13-16; 1 Tim 4:1) (Jer 7:28; Dan 8:12; 12:7)
    Think of the seven congregations and the warnings and admonition Jesus gave to his people. (Rev 2,3) God reads the intentions of the hearts and will judge those accordingly.  We don’t know how many anointed left the organization over the years, or how many were disfellowshipped from Rutherford’s time forward.   Rutherford ousted quite a few people who were against his tyranny.  But, there is a symbolic end to the 70 year time period in “Babylon”.  Rev 11:1-3 – what happens there?  “Gentiles” have entered the temple. (1 Cor 3:16,17) “Two witnesses” preach in “sackcloth”.   A genuine "Watchman"/prophet comes on the scene, an anointed one who is chosen to receive the understanding of Revelation’s scrolls as they are unfurled by Jesus. (Rev 5) (Ezek 3:17; Jer 6:17;  Luke 1:17; Dan 12:8,9)  Thus, the Marriage Feast is is made available to all.  (Matt 22:1-14)   This is the “Elijah” that comes to “restore” the Temple priesthood/Body of Christ. (Mal 3:1-3; Matt 17:11) The anointed either accept the call or have made their choice to remain in “Babylon”.   
    Yes, Roman soldiers were the Gentile “iron”, the abomination standing in the holy place. (Matt 24:15) A uncircumcised nation that entered the sanctuary.  (Lam 1:10; Ezek 44:6-9; 2 Thess 2:3,4)  We have a symbolic army today wearing “iron” that afflicts the anointed not sealed. (Rev 9:1-4,7-11; Rev 13:5-10)  Again, an abomination is standing where it doesn’t belong – a counterfeit priesthood that has trampled the Temple “living stones”.  (Mark 13:5,7,9,14; Rev 11:1-3)
    The “two witnesses” are symbolically “killed” for their testimony of truth. (Rev 11:7)  They are considered dead in the eyes of JWs, and it is taught as such.   The condemnation against them is expected, just as what occurred to Jesus and the apostles. (1 Cor 4:12-14)  It was the Romans who were used by the Jewish religious leaders to kill Christ.(John 19:15,16)  It is the spiritual nation of the “uncircumcised “Gentile”/elders who are used to “kill”/disfellowship the anointed for their testimony. (John 16:2; Rev 13:11,12,15-18; 2 Thess 2:3,4)   This goes for any believer in Christ who does the same.
    “When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them. 8 And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9 Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves. 10 And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.”  Rev 11:7-20
     
    Babylon the Great is not a place or one religion.  It is a covenant – a promise that leads to death. (Isa 28:15)  In fact in a comment I just posted, it explains it.  Your scriptures of John 4:21-24 tells us that God seeks those who worship Him in spirit and truth.  Truth – not partial truth, but pure truth received by those whom Jesus sends. (Mal 2:7; John 13:20)  Many Christians religions all hold some  truth, but also are organized by men with rules and extensions to God’s word.  As the scripture states, there is no deliberate, physical mountain/religion/organization to go to. Yet, Satan has made a variety of mountains for people to choose from, and many during the time period when the Wt. began.  “Babel” means “confused”.  (Gen 11:9)  Applying the term “Christian” to so many religions that have varying degrees of doctrine is confusion.  I’m not saying that there are no people in the world who do not have sincere hearts toward Jesus Christ.  We know that God’s laws fulfilled in Christ do direct the lives of individuals, and God is a righteous judge of these people. Yet, the first to be judged is God’s household of saints. (1 Pet 4:17) The second are JWs residing with them. (Rev 13:4,7,8,16,17) They are the target of the utmost deception, a different “tribulation” that has never been experienced by God’s people in history.  Is it even possible to deceive the “elect”/”saints” if they have a token of Holy Spirit within them?  Yes!
    Matt 24:22-25 –“If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. 23 At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you ahead of time.”
    This is why we have the warnings of false prophets…the parables of the foolish virgins, the comparisons made of the coming of the Kingdom, the harvest, the faithful/wicked steward, the faithful/evil slave, the “man of lawlessness”, and the wedding feast.  When Revelation opened, the understanding of these parables come to light, they apply to the anointed, and are fulfilled. (Rev 1:1)  They are not just mild warnings or nice stories with nothing coming to fruition as the Wt leads you to believe.  Also, the target of Revelation’s fulfillment has nothing to do with the rest of the world. It has to do with God’s holy people under covenant. 
    None of this will really be understood if one cannot see that the “thousand-year reign of Christ” is already finished and Satan was let out of the abyss for a “short time” to enact his plan – his net to deceive the “woman”, and to flood her with lies. (Ezek 38:10,11; Rev 12:15)  Deception won’t occur a thousand years after Armageddon. It is occurring now.  (Rev 20:7-10)  The “saints” are surrounded by a dual rulership; one of “clay” (God’s holy people – Isa 29:16; Jer 18:6) and one of “iron” (“Gentile” nations – (Dan 7:23; Zech 7:12; Deut 4:20; Eccl 8:9).  We are at the feet of the statue of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream.  (Dan 2:33-35,41-43)
     
    Each anointed one during his lifetime must conquer the accuser.  (Rev 12:120) Those who do, face affliction, they must all walk in the footsteps of Christ before they successfully conquering him. (Col 1:24; Phil 3:10)  Do you see that happening with the leaders of the Wt.; or, are they protected and given a life absolutely contrary to what Jesus Christ experienced as well as the apostles? (Luke 4:5-7)  This time period is the greatest test to come upon all anointed, since its completion brings the Kingdom. (Mark 13:14,19; Rev 7:9,10;13-17) The tribulation is the essence of one’s choice – deceit/lies or truth. (Joel 3:12-21)
     Looking at Romans 8:37-39, what powers are in place that dictate the lives of other people?  How is it that “Israel’s” leaders (GB) can dictate and judge, especially one belonging to God and Christ, as not deserving of eternal life because they reject their falsehoods? (Isa 2:22; Rom 6:16-18; Heb 13:6)  Should these powers come before ourselves and serving God and Jesus Christ?  (Acts 5:29)  How do we conquer the wicked one if we tolerate false doctrines out of fear of losing what we have developed in this life - doctrines that obviously are not from Jesus Christ? (John 12:25; Eph 6:12) The Wt leaders are professionals at ironing out all the wrinkles they make on their path of “truth”.  Jesus said he would send the “helper” who would tell us all things. (John 14:16,17,20,21,23,24,26,27)  This is the Spirit of God in Christ.  This help does not come with errors in doctrine. 
    “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 By his own choice, he gave us birth by the word of truth so that we would be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”  James 1:16-18
    A message to the anointed “firstfruits – “don’t be deceived”.  Yet, can they actually understand this scripture in the organization?  Or, do they accept men’s constant excuses for their failures in interpreting God’s word?  Each false teaching is deception, and deception originates with the evil one.
     
     
     
  12. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    It was still a CHOICE, just as it was a CHOICE not to cooperate with the redress scheme to begin with.  Obviously, money is more important than reaching out to help the victims.
  13. Like
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    To seek "freedom" from courts for oneself and one's own interests also means to recognize such the same freedom for those with whom one ideologically disagrees. We know what the content of JW’s beliefs is about other ideologies. Different and opposite ideologies will have no "freedom" in the "New World", but will be "deleted".
    There are principles in everything. You made erroneous conclusion.
    Yes, the Organization can seek to evade obligations with the help of semantics. Also the Organization can semantically justify what it previously refused to do.
    It’s a successful way that you use too.  
  14. Upvote
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    First Christians suffered and died for principles and died with thoughts how it is not justified what Caesar doing.
    WTJWorg are not willing to "suffer and die" for same reasons, because "cost of operating" depend on money not on God blessings.
  15. Like
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    WTJWorg still have their lawyers. Perhaps they will give suggestion to GB; "We can sue Australia for this" :)))
  16. Upvote
    Witness reacted to Patiently waiting for Truth in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    WHAT COMPLET HYPOCRISY. This truly shows the GB / Watchtower / JW Org for what they really are. 
    It's all about the money, money, money.  They do not care about people. 
    BUT they didn't 'believe that' earlier, when money wasn't involved.  
    THIS IS WHO YOU SERVE JWs. THESE ARE YOUR MASTERS, YOUR GB AND THEIR LAWYERS AND THEIR NON ANOINTED HELPERS. 
     
  17. Upvote
    Witness reacted to Srecko Sostar in Jehovah's Witnesses to join redress scheme   
    WTJWorg The administration has changed its mind? On what grounds and motives? Some are mentioned in the article (money issue). Indeed, we can speak of the hypocrisy of those who are the “leaders” of this organization.
    Arguments by some to justify non-cooperation were that the CSA was not “institutional violence” but “domestic violence” (Holly Folk from Cesnur) or that WTJWorg had no “institutional setings” with which to participate in reddress.
  18. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in "Magadangate: A Governing Body member gets the gospels wrong!"   
    What are you downvoting, Allen?  The fact that the GB member was exposed for his stupidity?  I remember watching him create his drawing, thinking how confusing his account seemed. What was his point, I thought.  But, I didn’t investigate it, and moved on.  I appreciate how the maker of the video drew my attention to Jackson’s melding of two Bible accounts, into his own.  After realizing this mistake, I thought to myself how many people were used in filming just his part of the meeting, and no one questioned his demonstration of this account about Jesus, as inaccurate. 
    So, what are you downvoting?  Are you downvoting Jackson – that he should have done better research, even pray about his demonstration to be in harmony with scriptures?  Or, are you downvoting someone who isn’t a JW, but found the error? 
    What concerns you more?
  19. Like
    Witness got a reaction from Srecko Sostar in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    Someone can leave the organization knowing full well that GB's teachings are wrong, such as the existence of an earthly organization and GB in the first century.  Even though a GB leader validated that it was not so in the past (Fred Franz), anyone today who rejects this teaching, can be disfellowshipped.  It is because the organization is huge now and vitally important in the minds of men, (but not so in the minds of God and Jesus Christ).   Franz was never disfellowshipped for his radical view, but will always be highly respected, also by a recent member of the GB who now preaches that oh yes! there WAS an earthly organization established in the first century.  Thus, any rank and file member who disagrees verbally with this, are shunned - "killed" through disfellowshipping. (John 16:2; Rev 13:15)  The rank and file are convinced that that these are the rebels and are "dead" in God's eyes.    Fred Franz on the other hand, will always be considered a "pillar" of the organization, as A. Morris had previously stated.  
     This reminds me of Isa 32 - 
    Indeed, a king will reign righteously,
    and rulers will rule justly.
    2 Each will be like a shelter from the wind,
    a refuge from the rain,
    like flowing streams in a dry land
    and the shade of a massive rock in an arid land.
    3 Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed,
    and the ears of those who hear will listen.
    4 The reckless mind will gain knowledge,
    and the stammering tongue will speak clearly and fluently.
    5 A fool will no longer be called a noble,
    nor a scoundrel said to be important.
    6 For a fool speaks foolishness
    and his mind plots iniquity.
    He lives in a godless way
    and speaks falsely about the Lord.
    He leaves the hungry empty
    and deprives the thirsty of drink.
    7 The scoundrel’s weapons are destructive;
    he hatches plots to destroy the needy with lies,
    even when the poor person says what is right.
    8 But a noble person plans noble things;
    he stands up for noble causes.
     
     
  20. Like
    Witness reacted to Patiently waiting for Truth in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    We do not know who reads this forum. Are there lots of people that just come here quietly and read it ?
    So any information given here could well be read by others that are seeking 'truth' of all types.  After all, it was online that i first found out the truth about the CSA in JW Org. So putting links on this forum could be helpful to others that may never even comment here. 
    It also helps to find out if any JWs are willing to admit to the faults in their Organistion. For instance, @JW Insider has always seemed balanced in his views. 
    This forum has helped me with a Facebook page that I run too. Keep the information coming folks. It all helps. 
  21. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in A LETTER TO AN ELDER   
    FAILED PREDICTIONS, CONTRIVED DOCTRINE AND SELF-FOCUS…G Jackson, spoke about the organization’s failed predictions.  He said, ‘There were times when they got excited about a certain year or time and the end didn’t come at that time.  Just imagine if you had a watch dog and that dog barks in the middle night, and you get up and there’s nothing there, do you shoot the dog?  It only proves that the dog is doing what you want it to do.  So in a similar way, in enthusiasm we have said things that maybe disappointed others. The faithful slave…keeps us alert.  When that day comes, when Jesus brings destruction on this wicked system of things… where do you want to be?’ 
    We do not want to be found “eating” from a tree that produces “bad fruit” – failed predictions, contrived doctrine.  “A good tree CANNOT bear bad fruit, and a bad tree CANNOT bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”  Matt 7:18,19 
    Does his example of the watch dog “prove” that the leadership is keeping alert?   No.  It proves only one thing:
    “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.”  Ps 26:11 
    We definitely do not want to be connected with fools, who’s fruit of the lips give praise to another father, other than the Almighty God.  (Heb 13:15)  (John 8:44)
     
  22. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in A LETTER TO AN ELDER   
    The letters below are an exchange between an elder and a past member of the organization, an anointed priest under Christ’s headship. The elder’s first sentence echoes the belief that only the Wt will lead people into “truth”, and “who” are doing the leading.  As one member here recently said to an ex-JW, “ but you haven't suggested an alternate location/theology whereby Christians can come together and build up their faith on a regular basis.”
    Please consider the reply to the elder.
     
    From the elder:
    My dear Rachel
    The "who" today would be the faithful slave as mentioned in Matthew 24:45. These Brothers have taught us the truth about Jehovah, Jesus the Trinity, Hell Fire, the Soul and I could go on and on. Again I say you offer no alternative. Not only spiritual truths, but that faithful slave spends hundreds of millions of dollars a year in relief aid to people in need. As for you and your "group" Jesus well described you in Matthew 25:26 as "wicked and sluggish". You offer no words of comfort, you offer no words of hope, only criticism of those whos sole mission is to help others strengthen their faith.
    Take the time to examine the history of God's people on earth. Jehovah has always brought them together as an organization. He has done the same today with the only organization that fulfills the commission at Matthew 24:14 to PREACH the GOOD NEWS of GOD'S KINGDOM in all the INHABITED EARTH. Name 1 other church, religion or group that is doing that? NOT ONE. I am praying for the scales to fall off of your eyes and for you to ask Jehovah for guidance and faith.
    A.
    -----My email response----
    It is nice to hear from you again, A. I am very familiar with the interpretation of Matthew 24:14 by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania corporation. Admittedly, I used to defend Watchtower as the only religion that is fulfilling preaching the good news, and boasted in them being the “channel” used by God, this “mountain-like” organization. The equating of Watchtower to God is subtle, but now, obvious. The perception that if one “leaves” Watchtower, one has “left Jehovah,” and is encouraged to “return to Jehovah.”
    You had initially asked what alternative to worship I was offering…you said, “where” else will one go! Perhaps you expected I might offer another organized religion as a replacement. However, bringing attention to John 6:68, Simon Peter did not ask Jesus where to go, but rhetorically asked Jesus, “to whom would we go?” You have the words of eternal life.” In your last email, you claimed that the “who” spoken of in John 6:68 is referring to the “faithful slave,” the eight leaders of the Watchtower religious organization that teach “the truth.” Jesus is “truth” (John 14:6).
    Let’s first consider the ancient nation of Israel, and the covenant between them and God. According to the pattern Moses was shown, only priests were permitted to minister in the temple sanctuary (Ex.25:9,40; 26:30). The nation of Israel however, time and again, became wayward, and engaged in idolatry setting up and worshiping images (1 Kings 11:4,5; 2 Kings 17:7-18; Isa.59:1,2; Jer.3:7-10), and at times, ignoring the priesthood arrangement whereby not consecrated individuals engaged in priestly duties, something also strictly forbidden (2 Chron.23:6; 26:16; 1 Sam.6:1-23).
     Of course, the old covenant was made obsolete, replaced by the new covenant with Jesus as high priest (Luke 22:20; Heb.8:1,13; 2 Cor.3:6). But why is the old covenant relevant? Because the old covenant was a “copy and shadow” of the better promise, the kingdom of heaven eternal priesthood that comprises the kingdom of heaven made certain through the blood of Christ, the final redemption (Acts 13:32; Heb.8:5,6, 10-12; 9:15; Gal.3:13).
    This is important to remember when we talk about the gospel of the kingdom/good news spoken in Matthew 24:14 because the “good news” is not novel. Throughout the Old Testament, the “good news” was delivered as a prophetic message to the nation of Israel by prophets chosen and sent by God. When we examine the pattern of “good news,” we find that it is a message of judgment by God on Israel because they broke their covenant, but also of peace through God’s promise of restoration of a repentant remnant, returning to their cities and land and rebuilding of the temple (Nahum 1:15; Isaiah 40:9; 41:27; 52:7; 61:1; Zech.13:8,9; Isa.44:28; Jer.31).
    The good news prophetically foretold the future fulfillment of God’s promise to “make a new covenant with the house of Israel” where God will put His “law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts,” forgiving “their iniquities” and remembering “their sins no more” (Jer.31:31-34; Heb.8:6-13). Now, notice the same message of good news proclaimed by John the Baptist, Jesus, and the apostles.
    “Before the arrival of Jesus,” John the Baptist “preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel” (Acts 13:24), “for the forgiveness of sins” (Mark 1:1-4; Luke 3:3), instructing the Israelites to believe in Jesus (Matt.3:1-17; Acts 19:4). Afterward, Jesus preached the good news/gospel of the kingdom “first to Jerusalem,” proclaiming peace, and announcing salvation through repentance – the better promise, the “kingdom of heaven,” was “at hand”/”near” (Luke 24:47; Eph.2:17; Mark 1:14; Matt.4:17; Luke 16:16; 8:1; John 16:33).
    It was first to the House of Israel, the Jewish people who were under the old covenant that Jesus, “the Lamb of God,” was sent, to take away “the sins of the world” (John 1:29; Mark 1:38; Acts 13:23). The “world” that hated Jesus and hated his disciples was not the entire world/system, but the Jewish system led by Jewish religious leaders (John 17:15,16; John 15:18-19; 18:36). If the Jews repented and received God’s Son, they would receive grace, be freed from the transgression of the law, and receive the “better promise,” of which they were in line to receive as natural heirs (John 3:16,17; Acts 2:38,39; Eph.2:8,9).
    God’s promises to Abraham’s descendants spoke of an inheritance of land with boundaries/territories they would inhabit (Gen.15:18-21; Josh.13 through 21). Notice the Israelites were prophesied to “be a land,” (Mal.3:12), a “land that will be his bride” (Isa.62:4). Whose bride? Jesus’, as he is head of his bride congregation, “new Jerusalem” (Rev.21:2,9; 19:7-9; John 3:29).
    With repentance and faith in Christ, “the lost sheep of Israel,” would inherit the better promise, the kingdom of heaven, not a literal land with a rebuilding of a literal temple/Jerusalem (Matt.24:14; 25:1; 10:5-7; Heb.7:22; 8:6; 11:13-16; 12:24; Gal.3:18). But, even Jerusalem’s temple priests refused to accept the spiritual promise. They were physical, desiring to hold onto their positions of prominence in the physical temple, boasting in their Jewish lineage, being Abraham’s descendants, natural heirs (John 8:33,39; Matt.3:9). They rejected the better promise, and so Jesus said, “Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it” (Matt.21:43).
    Nation? What nation? Well, notice after Jesus’ death, the apostles continued to proclaim the message of good news to the Israelites (Rom.10:16; Acts 13:46; 14:7,15,21; 28:23,31; 1 Cor.9:16,18; Heb.4:2; Gal.1:8,11), a message they continued to reject (Rom.10:16; Acts 13:46; 14:7,15,21; 28:23,31; 1 Cor.9:16,18; Heb.4:2; Gal.1:8,11; Rom.10:1-4).
    Regarding his preaching to the Israelites, Paul said he had preached to “all the earth, and to the ends of the world” (Rom.10:18). Did he mean that he preached the good news throughout the whole globe? No, he meant that the gospel had been thoroughly preached to all the “earth”/a dwelling/occupied land, the natural heirs to the kingdom of God, the Israelites, within their “world”/religious system (Rom.10:16-21; Heb.3:6). The kingdom of God, now, no longer comprised of only the tribes of natural Hebrew-speaking Jewish people, but to “every nation, from all tribes and peoples and language,” extending to God-fearing Gentiles who upon accepting the gospel and repenting, would receive God’s mercy (Acts 13:46; Rev.7:9; Acts 10:35; 13:26,46-48; Rom.1:5; Gal.2:2,8).
    God told Abraham, “In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice” (Gen.22:18). Now, individuals from all nations would be called to become “fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus” (Eph.3:6; Acts 13:32-42, 46; Rom.10:16-19; 1 Pet.2:10; Rev.5:9,10). Paul said that this was the mystery of the good news revealed to him, that “the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus” (Eph.3:3,6).
    The “glorious riches of this mystery” is not a physical temple, but “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col.1:26,27). “If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise” (Gal.3:29). Paul said this mystery had been “kept secret since the world began” (Rom.16:25). Since the actual “world” began? Remember, this reference refers to a religious system, and Paul, just as Jesus, was referring to the present Jewish system (Eph.3:6; Gen.17:7).
    This promised kingdom of heaven was likened, by Jesus, to a seed, “a mustard seed that a man planted” in his field (Matt.13:31; Luke 13:19)…seeds that when planted, grow in either good soil, rocky or shallow soil, or among thorns (Matt.13:3-8). Who is the farmer? Jesus said he “is the true vine” and his “Father is the gardener” (John 15:1). As a Farmer, God cultivates the “earth” planting “seeds,” but not all seeds grow to be “healthy trees,” trees that bear healthful fruit, some become “diseased trees” bearing bad fruit (Matt.7:17-20). Seeds that grow into good trees do not bear bad fruit, “nor does a bad tree bear good fruit” (Luke 6:43). How will you recognize whether a “tree,” one “of the earth”/heir to the kingdom, is producing “fine fruit”? Jesus said “by their fruit,” you will recognize them (Matt.7:20). Now, fruit is likened to “lips,” so we discern that a “diseased tree”/false teacher/false prophet will be recognized by their sayings/teachings/failed predictions (Matt.7:16-20; John 15:1-17; Heb.13:1; Deut.18:20-22). Matthew 7:16 quoted from the Amplified Bible says it concisely: “By their fruit you will recognize them [that is, by their contrived doctrine and self-focus]…”.
    “See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and late rains” (James 5:7). God is patiently waiting to see whether His children, those of the earth, will remain attached to His son, “the vine,” and “bear much fruit,” truthful teachings that last, not rot and expire (John 15:1-8,16).
    Now we must ask ourselves, were the prophecies, the promise of inheritance, that God’s people would receive a multi-billion dollar religious organization/compound to live on? Jesus had “no place to lay his head,” (Matt. 8:20), and the apostle Paul rented a house (Acts 28:30). Jesus could have easily directed a physical temple/religious structure be set up to restore pure worship, but did he? No, The temple Jesus spoke about was “temple of his body,” a “spiritual house, a holy priesthood,” “God’s building” constructed of “living stones” (John 2:21; 1 Cor.3:9; 1 Pet.2:5).
    The gospel of God is a priestly service, one that is carried out by those sanctified by the Holy Spirit to “minister” in “the priestly service of the gospel of God” (John 15:16; Rom.15:16). Who chooses such ones to perform the priestly service? God Himself selects those who are “built together to become a dwelling place which God lives by his Spirit,” the people He formed to proclaim His praises and to give testimony (Isa.43:10,21; Rev.12:10,11; Eph.2:22; 1 Pet.2:9).
    Not all will be able to understand what Jesus is saying, not even all who are spiritual heirs (Matt.16:4). Why? They do “not accept the things of the Spirit of God” and “cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Cor.2:14). “Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?” (Luke 12:56) Without spiritual discernment, one will be as a “natural man,” and will falsely apply physical interpretations to the spiritual signs given by Jesus (Luke 17:20-24; 11:29; Matt.12:39; 2 Cor.4:18).
    You asked me to name one group that has preached the good news worldwide. Who has convinced you that God backslid on His “better promise” of a new covenant, established since Christ’s death, and demanded that his spiritual temple be a physical organization? That would be exactly the pattern of backsliding ancient Israel engaged in, a form of idolatry (Jer.3:11-22)! “However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands…” (Acts 7:48). “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands” (Acts 17:24). “What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.” (2 Cor.6:16).
    There are members of the body that together, uphold Jesus’ truthful teachings and do preach the good news worldwide...not connected to a physical organized religion (John 15:16). Remember, the prophetic message of peace was proclaimed announcing good news that a remnant of ancient Israel would repent of their rebelliousness and idolatry and restore their covenant with God (2 Chron.29:6; 36:14; Ezra 9:7; Neh.1:6; Ezek.11:14-20). “These things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whims the end of ages has come” (1 Cor.10:11,12). Despite this warning, in the last days, God’s household/spiritual Israel (Rom.2:28; 9:6; Phil.3:3) will “harden their hearts” and be “deceived by sin” (Heb.3:12-19). The spiritual priesthood is replaced, silenced, and trampled by those not consecrated to perform spiritual sacrifices (Matt.24:15,16; 2 Thess.2:1-4). Yet, a final remnant of spiritual Israel will repent, leave their idolatrous ways, and through the sacrifice of the “Lamb of God,” restore the “body of Christ” (Rev.2:5; 12:11). This is the good news!
    If you want to follow a group of eight anointed that have become rebellious and created a physical organization, replacing the eternal priesthood with non-spirit anointed Gentiles, destroying His temple, stay, it is your choice! But be warned, if you stay, you WILL share in her sins (Rev.18:4; Ezek.44:6-9; Zech.4:6,7; Heb.8:5; 1 Cor.3:17).
    “Repent, for the Kingdom of heavens is near” (Matt.4:17).
     
  23. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    The last servant/s sent by Jesus, preach truth (“two”, John 8:17) in “sackcloth”.  Their message concerns the spiritual Temple given over to the Gentiles.  (2 Thess 2:1-4; Rev 11:1-3) How clear this is, as the elder body “represents the royal priesthood”/dwelling of God (1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17); and as the GB admonishes, the authentic priesthood must not “bond”, they must not gather to study God’s Word.  This is the behavior of the antichrist, by preventing the members of Christ’s body to join under their head.  “Against Christ”, and those members of his body. 
    Yes, God’s servants who speak as I do, experience overwhelming grief, and Satan makes sure of it.  They reveal what God’s saints are up against – the captivity to what appeared to be truth, and which tasted “sweet” in their mouths as God’s Word (Ps 119:103; Ezek 3:1-3), but for those awake, they find it “bitter” in the stomach. The mix of false teachings with a little truth can only be swallowed, when one is continually “drunk” on this false prophet/Harlot’s wine -  her concoction of poisoned “waters”/teachings.  (Rev 17:1,2; 8:10,11; 13:11,12)  John received this sweet/bitter scroll from the angel/messenger, and is then told,  “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages, and kings.”  Rev 10:8-10
    The kings are those that should join under Christ. These are whom he is concerned about, not the nations of “kings” on the political fronts (Rev 1:5).  All JWs, are people from all nations and languages.   
    These truths are only evident to those whose hearts desire to have the veil taken from their eyes. The impressed motto to “wait on Jehovah” to fix any glitches that JWs may actually discern, defines their “peace and security” derived from “Jehovah’s organization”.  1 Thess 5:3 They are told to put their anxious thoughts aside, and keep faith in "Jehovah's organization" - what a strong delusion this is.  (2 Thess 2:9-12)
    “Therefore, since we have this ministry because we were shown mercy, we do not give up. 2 Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful things, not acting deceitfully or distorting the word of God, but commending ourselves before God to everyone’s conscience by an open display of the truth. 3 But if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4 In their case, the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelievers to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For we are not proclaiming ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’s sake. 6 For God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ.”  2 Cor 4:1-6
    Wt’s damage control, ever being processed, is now the videos to be produced about Jesus.  Of course!  JWs can then say, see?  We uphold and give honor to the Son of God. 
    No. 
    Paul’s message to the members of Christ’s body…
    For I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy, because I have promised you in marriage to one husband—to present a pure virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your minds may be seduced from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if a person comes and preaches another Jesus, whom we did not preach, or you receive a different spirit, which you had not received, or a different gospel, which you had not accepted, you put up with it splendidly!  2 Cor 12:2-4
    And that describes the Wt.  All inside, including the anointed members of Jesus, give devotion to a wicked slave, the elder body and the organization, that no other earthly organization can defeat.  (Rev 13:4)  
     The cry that is being trumpeted, is “come out of her my people" - to stop tolerating the sins of the Wt. Rev 18:4-8
     
  24. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    Xero, the end time prophesies concern “Israel”, not the world at large.  They concern all JWs who reside with the anointed.  You, they, the anointed priests, are held in “captivity”. (Col 2:8; Rev 13:10)  You may not believe this, or you choose to ignore it;  but if you look at the results of disfellowshipping, what does it do? What type of power does it hold over everyone inside?   What harm is committed by this one act?  No matter the sin, the judgment by men who are not anointed, is the same.  How many have committed suicide by being cut off from family?  Do you agree this is a “loving provision”?  How many people would rather fade, and not lose their family?  How many people are disfellowshipped who have not sinned against God, but refuse to swallow down the GB’s falsehoods; and out of love for their own, speak loud and clear against a wicked slave, as they try to draw whomever they can, out of the blind "captivity" that they can now visualize as a road leading to destruction?  (Matt 24:48-51)
    How many people choose to follow Jesus Christ and reveal the sins of the leadership of their own people, just as Jesus did? Jesus was bold in expressing God's Words given to him.  Shouldn't all of us put the words of Christ above the words of men?  But, when they do, they are persecuted as he was by their own people.  (John 16:2; Rev 13:15)   The anointed in the organization should uphold God's Word over your leadership's foolish "new light", and some have.  Among those that have, are some joining ranks and preaching the “good news” of the restoration of “Jacob”.  They are preaching the need for repentance of idolatry to an organization. (Exod 20:4,5; Rom 1:25; Rev 13:8,4)
    What is sad, is that someone like you cannot see how you play the part in “trampling” God’s holy saints/His priests. You have power over them, and you can't see this? You carry the ability to JUDGE God's holy people. (Rom 14:4) Did God tell the GB to do this? Would He ever put someone else in charge of His "special possession"? Would He ever allow anyone other than priests to serve in His Temple?  (Ezek 44:6-9)  Or, are His people expected to teach and serve the people as we see in the scriptures accomplished by the apostles?  (Mal 2:7; Eph 3:2-5)  (2 Thess 2:3,4,8,9; Rev 11:1-3,7; Rev 13:1,2,5-7) The warning must be given, and the warning will continue until the entire organization is gone. (Zech 4:7-10; Rev 8:8,9)  It is a counterfeit of the true Zion - the "organization"/Temple of God.  (Isa 2:2-5; 1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22)  It is up to each one of you to “decide”; but no one can, unless both sides are made clear.  (Joel 3:14-17; Rev 14:6-12; 18:4-8)  This is the essence of the great tribulation and Armageddon - a war of truth against lies.   (Eph 6:10-17
     
    “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
    21 “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 22 You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 23 When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another.
    Truly I tell you, you will not finish going through the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes." Matt 10:16-23
     
     
     
     
  25. Upvote
    Witness got a reaction from Patiently waiting for Truth in WATCHTOWER, 1991 - "HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RELIGION"   
    Yes, most certainly an elder chasing after someone who disagrees with GB/organization policy, is a toxic behavior.
     
    Who Are the Locusts?
     
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