Baptism at a JW Convention

This excitement is characteristic at a Jehovah's Witness baptism for it legalizes one to be part of the Organization.



Q: On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?

Q: Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization?

The Watchtower January 15, 1989 p.13 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized?

Only if the individual answers in the affirmative and also understands that his dedication and baptism identify him as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization can he acceptably undergo water immersion.

Watchtower “The Ransom – God’s Greatest Gift”

Theistichedonist has analyzed and responded to the Watchtower's "The Ransom - God's Greatest Gift" from their book What Does The Bible Really Teach?. The Society's teaching is SELF-CENTERED and all but disregards the crucial focus.

From his article:

One of the pressing questions for the WT is this: Is Adam’s perfect life the primary thing that was lost in the Fall? This question is raised because it appears that although Adam’s loss was profoundly devastating, it was peanuts compared to what God lost in the Fall.

Only if we understand what Adam and God lost when Adam (and all mankind) sinned can we appreciate why the Ransom is such a valuable gift to us.When the WT was seeking to explain precisely how much Adam lost when he fell, they discussed who Adam was by nature (“Adam was made in God’s image…Adam was made with qualities like those of God, including love, wisdom, justice and power.”). The WT also briefly implied that one of Adam’s reasons for existing was to perform “…satisfying assignments of work…”

By discussing who Adam was and why he existed, the WT was able to lay the conceptual groundwork by which they could explain both how much Adam lost and what could be done to repay the loss. Likewise, in seeking to discover how much God lost, the questions, “Who is God?” and “Why does God exist?” ought to be asked as well.

The writer correctly identifies the problems with their viewpoint.

1. They focused exclusively on what Adam and mankind had lost.

2. They completely side-stepped any discussion of what God had lost.

3. They neglected to insist that mankind’s deification of self, and the sin that inevitably follows, is an infinitely heinous crime.

4. They insisted that a remedy needed to be found for Adam’s loss while completely ignoring the need to remedy God’s loss.

You can expect the Watchtower to incorporate these points in the future while still distorting the Gospel.

Worship The True God

The Watchtower has unwittingly stood up for Jesus.

The Watchtower Nov 15, 2007 Paragraph 3 Approaching people and endeavoring to persuade them to worship the true God requires that we have deep love for Jehovah. The Israelites could prove their love for God by wholeheartedly obeying his commandments, offering acceptable sacrifices, and extolling him in song. (Deuteronomy 10: 12, 13; 30:19, 20; Psalm 21:13; 96:1, 2; 138:5) As disciple makers, we too keep God's laws, but we also express our love for Jehovah by telling others about him and his purposes. We need to speak with conviction, choosing the right words to express our heartfelt feelings about our God-given hope.-1 Thessalonians 1:5; 1 Peter 3:15.

From their own words the following can be deduced.

Worship The True God

• Deep Love

Ephesians 6:24 Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

• Obeying His Commandments

John 14:15 [Jesus] If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

• Offering Acceptable Sacrifices

Mark 10:29 Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the gospel's sake"

Mark 8:34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

Romans 14:7 If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

• Extolling Him In Song

Ephesians 5:19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

• Telling Others About Him

Acts 1:8 [Jesus] "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

"Cultivate Qualities That Can Help You Make Disciples"

This week's Watchtower Study is about cultivating qualities and skills to be disciple-makers.

Paragraph 1 Jehovah's servants must sometimes develop skills and attitudes that will help them to do his will. At God's command, for instance, Abraham and Sarah left the prosperous city of Ur and eventually needed the qualities and abilities required of tent dwellers. (Hebrews 11:8, 9, 15) Leading the Israelites into the Promised Land demanded that Joshua have courage, confidence in Jehovah, and knowledge of his Law. (Joshua 1:7-9) And whatever skills Bezalel and Oholiab may already have had were certainly enhanced or further developed by God's spirit so that those men could successfully share in and oversee the construction of the tabernacle and related work.-Exodus 31:1-11

Witnesses believe people who were born before Christ's covenant will never go to heaven, and if they are resurrected it will be on Earth. In contrast, what does the Bible teach?

Hebrews 1:8 By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. 9 By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. 11 By faith Abraham, even though he was past age—and Sarah herself was barren—was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise. 12 And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. 13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. 14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. 15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

Heaven is the prepared home for believers.

Paragraph 2 Centuries later, Jesus Christ gave his followers this commission: "Go ... and make disciples of people of all the nations, .. teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) Never before had people been given the privilege of doing anything quite like this. What qualities are needed for the disciple-making work? How can we cultivate such traits?

According to JW theology, it was the Archangel Michael who actually gave this command. They ask how they can cultivate such traits. How about recognizing Jesus is not a created being? How about "baptizing in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit"?

Paragraph 9 The apostle Paul too was deeply concerned about people to whom he preached. For instance, he told those who had become Christians in Thessalonica: "Having a tender affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you, not only the good news of God, but also our own souls, because you became beloved to us." As a result of Paul's loving efforts, some in Thessalonica `turned away from their idols to slave for the living God.' (1 Thessalonians 1:9; 2:8) If we have genuine concern for people, as Jesus and Paul did, we too may experience the joy of seeing the good news reach the hearts of those "rightly disposed for everlasting life."-Acts 13:48.

Their New World Translation poorly translates Acts 13:48. As if some people have a tendency or an inclination towards everlasting life.

Paragraph 13 (James 5:7, 8) James was urging fellow believers to 'exercise patience until the Lord's presence.' If the disciples did not understand something, Jesus patiently explained or illustrated matters. (Matthew 13:10-23; Luke 19:11; 21:7; Acts 1:6-8) Now that the Lord is present, there is a similar need for patience as we endeavor to make disciples. Those who become Jesus' followers in our day require patient instruction. John 14:9.

This is where their twisted theology is visible. First, this paragraph is inane. Second, if the Lord became present only until 1914, how was Christ with them after His ascension? Their Invisible Presence of 1914 doctrine is erroneous.

Matthew 28:30 I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

Back to the article.

Paragraph 14 Even though we are patient, the word does not bear fruit in most people with whom we start to study the Bible. (Matthew 13:18-23) After making reasonable efforts to assist them, therefore, we wisely stop spending time with such individuals and seek to find those who are more likely to value Bible truth. (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 6) Of course, even appreciative people may need extended help to change their views, attitudes, and priorities in life. So we are patient, just as Jesus was patient with the disciples who had difficulty developing a proper attitude.-Mark 9:33-37; 10:35-45.

Paragraph 17 Jesus also helped people to reason, instead of simply giving them facts. On one occasion, for example, he asked: "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive duties or head tax? From their sons or from the strangers?" (Matthew 17:25) We may enjoy explaining the Bible so much that we have to exercise self-control in order to let the student express himself or explain a matter being considered during a home Bible study. Naturally, we should not overwhelm people with questions. Instead, with tact, good illustrations, and thoughtful questions, we can help them to appreciate the Scriptural points presented in our Bible-based publications.

Paragraph 18 The Scriptures speak of the "art of teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9) Such teaching ability involves much more than helping someone to memorize facts. We should try to assist a Bible student to understand the difference between truth and error, good and bad, wisdom and foolishness. As we do this and endeavor to cultivate love for Jehovah in the person's heart, he may see why he should obey Him.

Study not the Bible, but their publications. Also, if they want to help people see the difference between truth and error, good and bad, and wisdom and foolishness have them read the Watchtower's literature and contrast it to the Word of God.

The best part about this study contains information that JW's may find revealing. I'll have to post this on its own.

Paragraph 3 Approaching people and endeavoring to persuade them to worship the true God requires that we have deep love for Jehovah. The Israelites could prove their love for God by wholeheartedly obeying his commandments, offering acceptable sacrifices, and extolling him in song. (Deuteronomy 10: 12, 13; 30:19, 20; Psalm 21:13; 96:1, 2; 138:5) As disciple makers, we too keep God's laws, but we also express our love for Jehovah by telling others about him and his purposes. We need to speak with conviction, choosing the right words to express our heartfelt feelings about our God-given hope.-1 Thessalonians 1:5; 1 Peter 3:15.

Worship The True God

• Deep Love

Ephesians 6:24 Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

• Obeying His Commandments

John 14:15 [Jesus] If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

• Offering Acceptable Sacrifices

Mark 10:29 Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the gospel's sake"

Mark 8:34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

Romans 14:7 If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

• Extolling Him In Song

Ephesians 5:19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

• Telling Others About Him

Acts 1:8 [Jesus] "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

More Strangeness

Perhaps I should be the one to post a warning that the following is, well...it feels like it doesn't belong at a meeting with kids of all ages present.

During a ministry service meeting an Elder was talking about how young people need to make sure they find good associations to befriend. Then he goes on about how a few boys in the congregation have had sleepovers at home and would go on to watch porn and masturbate together.

I couldn't believe my ears. What I mostly feel upset about is how all the elementary kids were looking up to their parents probably wanting to know what was going on.

Is this the best way to handle things? Worse yet, is how the Elder emphasized in our congregation.

A Saviour Is Born

Luke 2:11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord

John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Hebrews 1:6 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him."

"Searching Into 'The Deep Things Of God'".

This is going to get messy for the Society.

Paragraph 1 Most of us in the Christian congregation can recall the joy we felt when we first learned the truth. We discovered why Jehovah's name is important, why he permits suffering, why some people go to heaven, and what the future holds for faithful mankind in general. We may have looked into the Bible before that, but these things were hidden from us, as they are from most of mankind. We were like a man peering through the water at a coral reef. Unaided, he sees little of the beautiful things below the surface. But with the aid of diving goggles or a glass-bottomed boat, he is thrilled to see for the first time brilliantly colored corals, fish, sea anemones, and other fascinating creatures. Similarly, when someone began to help us to understand the Scriptures, we had our first glimpse of "the deep things of God."-1 Corinthians 2:8-10.

Paragraph 2 Should we be satisfied with only a glimpse of Bible truth? The expression "the deep things of God" includes the understanding of God's wisdom that is revealed to Christians by holy spirit but is obscured to others. (1 Corinthians 2:7) What a limitless field of exploration the wisdom of God provides for our enjoyment! We will never know everything about the wisdom of God's ways. The joy we experienced when we first learned the primary Bible teachings can remain with us indefinitely if we continue without letup searching into "the deep things of God."

Are they allowed to "continue without letup" searching and exploring the "limitless field' of the deep things of God?

Our Kingdom Ministry September 2007 Question Box

"Does "the faithful and discreet slave" endorse independent groups of Witnesses who meet together to engage in Scriptural research or debate?–Matt. 24:45, 47.

No, it does not. And yet, in various parts of the world, a few associates of our organization have formed groups to do independent research on Bible-related subjects. Some have pursued an independent group study of Biblical Hebrew and Greek so as to analyze the accuracy of the New World Translation. Others explore scientific subjects related to the Bible. They have created Web sites and chat rooms for the purpose of exchanging and debating their views. They have also held conferences and produced publications to present their findings and to supplement what is provided"

"Thus, 'the faithful and discreet slave' does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight.–Matt. 24:45-47."

That is the last thing the society wants.

Paragraph 3 Why do we need to understand those "deep things"? Understanding not only what we believe but why we believe it–the underlying reasons for our beliefs–strengthens our faith and confidence. The Scriptures tell us to use our "power of reason" to "prove to [ourselves] the good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:1, 2) Understanding why Jehovah asks us to live in a certain way fortifies our resolve to obey him. Therefore, knowledge of "the deep things" can give us strength to resist temptation to engage in lawless acts and can move us to be "zealous for fine works."-Titus 2:14.

Just as long as you don't you use the God given "power of reason" on the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society.

Paragraph 4 Understanding deep things requires study. However, study is not the same as reading something superficially. It involves carefully examining information to see how it fits the pattern of what we already know. (2 Timothy 1:13) It entails perceiving the reasons for what is said. Bible study should include meditating on how we can use what we learn in making wise decisions and in helping others. Also, since "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial," our study should include "every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth." (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; Matthew 4:4) Bible study can be hard work! But it can also be delightful, and understanding "the deep things of God" is not too difficult.

Only if...

Our Kingdom Ministry September 2007 Question Box For those who wish to do extra Bible study and research, we recommend that they explore Insight on the Scriptures, "All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial," and our other publications, such as those that discuss the prophecies found in the Bible books of Daniel, Isaiah, and Revelation.

...you use their literature.

Paragraph 6 How does God's spirit search "into all things, even the deep things of God"? Rather than give each Christian a separate revelation, Jehovah uses his spirit to direct his organization, which provides God's unified people with an understanding of the Bible. (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:3-6) Worldwide, all congregations enjoy a similar program of Bible study. Over a period of years, they cover the entire range of Bible teachings. Holy spirit acts through the congregation to help people adopt the attitude needed to understand "the deep things of God."-Acts 5:32.

I guess someone should have informed Jesus what the Society expects Him to do.

Luke 24 records the Master interacting with two who were going to the village of Emmaus and "beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." Notice the power of His Word when it says, "They asked each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'". The result was "they got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, "It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon." How great is God!

Paragraph 7 We should not think that "deep things" are necessarily difficult things. Knowledge of "the deep things of God" is obscured from most people, not because the wisdom of God is too difficult to acquire, but because Satan deceives people into rejecting the help that Jehovah provides through His organization.-2 Corinthians 4:3, 4.

So if people rejected the Society's teaching that God would usher in His Kingdom before the generation of 1914 died out, it was because of Satan?

Paragraph 8 The third chapter of Paul's letter to the Ephesians shows that "the deep things of God" include many truths that most of Jehovah's people understand quite well, such as the identity of the promised Seed, the selection from among mankind of individuals with a heavenly hope, and the Messianic Kingdom. Paul wrote: "In other generations this secret was not made known to the sons of men as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by spirit, namely, that people of the nations should be joint heirs and fellow members of the body and partakers with us of the promise in union with Christ Jesus." Paul said that he had been assigned to "make men see how the sacred secret is administered which has from the indefinite past been hidden in God." -Ephesians 3:5-9."

Brace for the following.

Paragraph 12 A second example of deep things that have been revealed to us concerns God's purpose to select 144,000 from among mankind.(Revelation 14:1, 4) We accept the teaching that all of the anointed ones living on earth at any given time constitute "the faithful and discreet slave" that Jesus said would provide timely "food" for his domestics. (Matthew 24:45) What Bible texts prove that this understanding is correct? Might Jesus have referred in a general sense to any Christian who builds up his brothers with spiritual nourishment?

Paragraph 13 God told the nation of Israel: "You are my witnesses ... even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10) But on Nisan 11 of the year 33 C.E., Jesus told the leaders of Israel that God had rejected their nation from being His servant. He said: "The kingdom of God will be taken from you and be given to a nation producing its fruits." Jesus said to the crowds: "Look! Your house is abandoned to you." (Matthew 21:43; 23:38) As Jehovah's slave, the house of Israel was neither faithful nor discreet. (Isaiah 29:13, 14) Later that same day, when Jesus asked: "Who really is the faithful and discreet slave?" he was in effect asking, `What discreet nation will replace Israel to be God's faithful slave?' The apostle Peter gave the answer when he told the congregation of anointed Christians: "You are ...'a holy nation, a people for special possession.'" (1 Peter 1:4; 2:9) That spiritual nation, "the Israel of God," became Jehovah's new slave. (Galatians 6:16) Just as all members of ancient Israel formed one "servant," so also all anointed Christians on earth at any one time form one "faithful and discreet slave." What a privilege it is for us to receive "food" through God's slave!

From a JW viewpoint, this is not only senseless, it is mistaken. For if "all of the anointed ones living on earth at any given time constitute 'the faithful and discreet slave' that Jesus said would provide timely 'food' for his domestics, then does this mean that the anointed sister in my congregation is providing her own cooking recipes to the congregations worldwide? What of the other 8,000 or so (according to their figures)?

The Watchtower May 1, 2007 page 31“However, genuine anointed Christians do not demand special attention. They do not believe that their being of the anointed gives them special “insights,” beyond what even some experienced members of the great crowd may have. They do not believe that they necessarily have more holy spirit than their companions of the other sheep have; nor do they expect special treatment or claim that their partaking of the emblem places them above the appointed elders in the congregation. They humbly remember that some anointed men in the first century did not qualify to serve as elders or ministerial servants.”

It would follow that the Society also has no special insight. Why do they have a "GOVERNING BODY"?

Paragraph 14 When fresh understanding of the Scriptures is opened to us, do we not feel happy because of the way it strengthens our faith? That is why Bible study, more so than mere reading, can be such a joy. Therefore, when you read Christian publications, ask yourself: `How does this explanation compare with what I previously understood about the subject? What additional Scripture texts or arguments can I think of that would provide further support for the conclusions being presented in this article?' If further research is required, make a note of the question you would like to have answered, and make it the subject of a future study project.

A classic example of putting the cart before the horse. They go into their publications and expect the Scriptures to mold to the Society's conclusions.

Paragraph 17 Personal Bible study projects can be fascinating and faith strengthening, but be careful not to allow them to overshadowyour preparation for congregation meetings. The meetings are another way that Jehovah instructs us through "the faithful and discreet slave." However, additional research may contribute to your making meaningful comments at meetings–for example, at the Congregation Book Study or during highlights from the weekly Bible reading for the Theocratic Ministry School.

Contrast this to the letter addressed to the body of elders from April 2007

"Extensive research has already been involved in producing the study article, and the points to be emphasized are those included in the paragraphs under consideration. When outside material is introduced, if often detracts from what "the faithful and discreet slave" has prepared for the congregation."

Please my JW brother and sister, upon your death or when Christ returns YOU will render an account to Him.

Romans 14:12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.

John 5:22 Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, 23 that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.

Feb 15, 2008 Watchtower "Members Only"

A Show of Hands, Kids!

Fred Thompson speaks his mind (and wanting more opportunity to do so).

"The Word of Jehovah Never Fails"

In this week's Watchtower Study, the Society tries to put on the glass slipper. The results are offensive as they are comedic.

Paragraph 3 Joshua was approaching 110 years of age, having lived during one of the most exciting periods in the history of God's people. He had been an eyewitness to mighty acts of God, and he had seen the fulfillment of many of Jehovah's promises. Thus, it was with the absolute conviction of firsthand experience that he said: "You well know with all your hearts and with all your souls that not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you. Not one word of them has failed." -Joshua 23:14.

Paragraph 4 What words of Jehovah had come true in Joshua's lifetime? We will consider three assurances that Jehovah gave the Israelites. First, God would deliver them from bondage. Second, he would protect them. Third, he would sustain them. Jehovah has given similar assurances to his modern-day people, and we have seen them come true during our lifetime. Before we discuss what Jehovah has done in modern times, though, let us consider his activity in Joshua's day.

Paragraph 5 When the Israelites cried out to God because of their slavery in Egypt, Jehovah took notice. (Exodus 2:23-25) At the burning bush, Jehovah said to Moses: "I am proceeding to go down to deliver [my people] out of the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a land good and spacious, to a land flowing with milk and honey." (Exodus 3:8) How exciting it must have been to see Jehovah bring this about! When Pharaoh refused to let Israel leave Egypt, Moses informed him that God would turn the waters of the Nile into blood. Jehovah's word did not fail. The water in the Nile River was turned into blood. The fish died, and the river water was undrinkable. (Exodus 7:14-21) Pharaoh remained obstinate, and Jehovah brought nine more plagues, describing each one in advance. (Exodus, chapters 8-12) After the tenth plague struck dead the firstborn of Egypt, Pharaoh ordered the Israelites to leave -and leave they did!-Exodus 12:29-32.

My dear JW friend, notice when God makes a promise, he keeps it.

Awake! (pre-Oct 1995) "Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure new world before the generation that saw the events of 1914 passes away."

Did God lie? Why did the Society attribute this claim as having been promised by the Creator Himself?

Deutoronomy 18:20 But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded him to say, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, must be put to death." 21 You may say to yourselves, "How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the LORD ?" 22 If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously. Do not be afraid of him.

Amen, Lord.

Paragraph 11 What of our time? On Friday morning, October 2, 1914, Charles Taze Russell, who took the lead at that time among the Bible Students, strode into the dining room at Bethel in Brooklyn, New York. "Good morning, all," he said cheerily. Then, before taking his seat, he joyfully announced: "The Gentile times have ended; their kings have had their day." Once again, the time had come for Jehovah, the Sovereign of the universe, to act in behalf of his people. And act he did!

Charles Taze Russell's grave and pyramid in Rosemont United Cemetary, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Charles Taze Russell "The Time Is At Hand, pg 101 "The battle of the great day of God Almighty (Rev.16:14) which will end in 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present day rulership, is already commenced."

Russell believed Armageddon would end in 1914.

Paragraph 12 Just five years later; Jehovah delivered his people from "Babylon the Great," the mighty world empire of false religion. (Revelation 18:2) Few of us are old enough to have witnessed that exciting deliverance. Yet, we plainly see the results. Jehovah reestablished pure worship and united those who yearned to worship him. This had been foretold through the prophet Isaiah: "It must occur in the final part of the days that the mountain of the house of Jehovah will become firmly established above the top of the mountains, and it will certainly be lifted up above the hills; and to it all the nations must stream."-Isaiah 2:2.

Let's take a look at least of some examples of "reestablished pure worship".

Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 1920, p. 89-90 "Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old."

The Watchtower March 1, 1922 "The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the "time of the end" began in 1799; that the Lord's second presence began in 1874."

"Indisputable"--priceless.

Paragraph 13 Isaiah's words did not fail to come true. In 1919 the anointed remnant began a bold worldwide witnessing campaign that raised the worship of the true God on high. In the 1930's, it became evident that the "other sheep" were being gathered in. (John 10: 16) First came thousands, then hundreds of thousands, and now millions are taking a stand for pure worship! In a vision given to the apostle John, they are described as "a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues." (Revelation 7:9) What have you seen during your lifetime? How many Witnesses of Jehovah were there on earth when you first learned the truth? Today, those who serve Jehovah number more than 6,700,000. By delivering his people from Babylon the Great, Jehovah opened the way for the thrilling increase that we now see on a global scale.

What they offer is an argumentum ad populum. Does this mean Islam's rise is also a sign of Divine Favor?

Paragraph 15 As we have seen, the Israelites of Joshua's day needed Jehovah's protection. Are Jehovah's people in modern times any different? Hardly! Jesus warned his followers: "People will deliver you up to tribulation and will kill you, and you will be objects of hatred by all the nations on account of my name." (Matthew 24:9) Over the years, Jehovah's Witnesses in many lands have endured bitter opposition and cruel persecution. Yet, Jehovah has proved to be with his people. (Romans 8:31) His Word assures us that nothing -'no weapon formed against us'-will stop our Kingdom-preaching and teaching work. -Isaiah 54:17.

On account of who's name? JESUS. At one meeting the question was asked, "Why do we encounter persecution". After I was called on I replied, "Because we proclaim Jesus". That wasn't the response they were looking for.

Paragraph 16 Despite the world's hatred, Jehovah's people have prospered. Jehovah's Witnesses are flourishing in 236 lands-compelling evidence, indeed, that Jehovah is with us to protect us from those who wish to crush or silence us. Can you recall the names of mighty political or religious leaders who during your lifetime bitterly oppressed God's people? What has happened to them? Where are they now? Most have been brought to nothing, just like Pharaoh in the days of Moses and Joshua. And what of God's modern day servants who died faithful? They are protected in Jehovah's memory. There is no safer place for them to be. Clearly, in the matter of protection, Jehovah's words have proved true.

Have they forgotten the Jewish people and the millions that were exterminated?

Paragraph 17 Jehovah sustained his people in the wilderness, and he sustains them today. We are spiritually fed by "the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45) We receive knowledge of spiritual truths that were kept secret for centuries. The angel told Daniel: "Make secret the words and seal up the book, until the time of the end. Many will rove about, and the true knowledge will become abundant."-Daniel 12:4.

What has the "faithful and discreet slave" been feeding?

The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah 1971; 2nd Edition p. 216 "Shortly, within our twentieth century, the "battle in the day of Jehovah" will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom."

Back to the study.

Paragraph 18 We are now living in the time of the end, and true knowledge is indeed abundant. Worldwide, holy spirit has led lovers of truth to an accurate knowledge of the true God and his purposes. Bibles abound in the earth today, and so do publications that help people understand the precious truths that the Bible contains. Consider, for example, the table of contents in the study publication What Does the Bible Really Teach?* (Footnote * Published by Jehovah's Witnesses.) Among its chapters are: "What Is the Truth About God?," "Where Are the Dead?," "What Is God's Kingdom?," and "Why Does God Allow Suffering?" Humans have pondered such questions for thousands of years. Now the answers are readily available. Even after centuries of ignorance and Christendom's apostate teaching, God's Word prevails, sustaining all who yearn to serve Jehovah.

Is the Bible not enough? So for centuries God's Word and Church was corrupted?

Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever."

Matthew 16:18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

Do they really have much trust in God's Word?

Paragraph 19 Surely from what we have seen with our own eyes, we can say: "Not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you. Not one word of them has failed." (Joshua 23:14) Jehovah delivers, protects, and sustains his servants. Can you point to any promise of his that failed to be fulfilled at his appointed time? It is impossible to do so. We wisely trust in the reliable Word of God.

JEHOVAH GOD is reliable, not this Organization.

The Watchtower July 1, 1973 "Only this organization functions for Jehovah's purpose and to his praise. To it alone God's Sacred Word, the Bible, is not a sealed book."

If the glass slipper fits, it would be of this description.

Jeremiah 14:14 Then the LORD said to me, "The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds.

A Human Life

Matt Slick defending the unborn.

Excellent brother, God bless you!

"Responding To Your Conscience"

Last week's Watchtower study article "Responding To Your Conscience" starts out with the idea that a governing body controlled (or should have) all first century congregrations in matters of conscience.

Paragraph 4 Over ten years earlier, the Christian governing body concluded that circumcision was no longer required to become a true worshipper, and they informed the congregations accordingly. (Acts 15:1, 2, 19-29) Yet, some on Crete were still 'adhering to the circumcision.' They openly disagreed with the governing body, "teaching things they ought not." (Titus 1:10, 11) With distorted thinking, they may have been advocating regulations from the Law about foods and ritual cleanness. They may even have been embellishing what the Law said, as did their predecessors in Jesus' day, as well as advocating Jewish fables and human commandments.-Mark 7:2, 3, 5, 15; 1 Timothy 4:3.

Has the society ever taught things considered as fables...

Reconciliation 1928 p14 "The constellation of the seven stars forming the Pleiades appears to be the crowning centre around which the known systems of the planets revolve even as our sun's planets obey the sun and travel in their respective orbits. It has been suggested, and with much weight, that one of the stars of that group is the dwelling-place of Jehovah and the place of the highest heavens"

"The constellation of the Pleiades is a small one compared with others which scientific instruments disclose to the wondering eyes of man. But the greatness in size of other stars or planets is small when compared with the Pleiades in importance, because the Pleiades is the place of the eternal throne of God."

...or human commandments?

The Watchtower August 15, 1978 "Extreme hair styles can easily lead one into a trap of the Devil also, and cause others to stumble. "

Our Kingdom Ministry April 2007 "Should we manifest a dignified appearance only when attending the program? Remember that many will observe us wearing our convention badges while in the convention city. Our appearance should make us stand out from the general public. Therefore, even during leisure time, such as when going out to eat after the program, we should dress as befits ministers who are in the city for the purpose of attending a Christian convention and should not wear such -clothing as jeans, shorts, or t-shirts. What a witness this will give to the community! Jehovah is pleased when our appearance bespeaks our role as ministers."

The Watchtower Study then misses the point.

Paragraph 6 How can we benefit from what Paul wrote to Titus? Well, observe the contrast found in this statement: "All things are clean to clean persons. But to persons defiled and faithless nothing is clean, but both their minds and their consciences are defiled." (Titus 1:15) Paul certainly was not saying that for a morally clean Christian, absolutely everything is clean and permissible. We can be sure of that because Paul had made clear in another letter that one practicing fornication, idolatry, spiritism, and so on "will not inherit God's kingdom." (Galatians 5:19-21) So we must conclude that Paul was stating a general truth about two types of people, those who are morally and spiritually clean and those who are not.

It's not easy to wonder why they didn't cite the rest of the scripture.

Galatians 5:19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

That "so on" includes, hatred, jealousy, selfishness. Scripture also attests that all liars shall have their part in the lake of fire (Rev 21:8). We must be perfect like God is perfect and that won't happen unless He does it himself. Thank you Lord for being merciful upon this filthy sinner.

Suddenly, the Society decides this is a good time to talk about sex in front of young children listening or reading along.

Pargraph 7 The things that a sincere Christian needs to avoid are not limited to what the Bible specifically prohibits. As an example, consider this forthright statement: "Let marriage be honorable among all, and the marriage bed be without defilement, for God will judge fornicators and adulterers." (Hebrews 13:4) Even non-Christians and ones who know nothing of the Bible would rightly conclude that this verse rules out committing adultery. It is plain from this and other Bible passages that God condemns sexual intercourse between a married man or woman and someone other than the lawful husband or wife. What, though, about two unmarried persons engaging in oral sex? Many teenagers claim that this practice is harmless because it is not sexual intercourse. Could a Christian view oral sex as clean?

Paragraph 8 Hebrews 13:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:9 establish that God disapproves of both adultery and fornication (Greek, pornei'a). What does the latter include? The Greek term involves the use of the genital organs in either a natural or a perverted way with lewd intent. It includes all forms of illicit sexual relations outside of Scriptural marriage. So it includes oral sex, despite the fact that many teenagers around the world have been told or have come to the conclusion that oral sex is acceptable. True Christians do not guide their thinking and actions by the opinions of "profitless talkers, and deceivers of the mind." (Titus 1:10) They hold to the higher standard of the Holy Scriptures. Rather than try to make excuses for oral sex, they understand that Scripturally it is fornication, pornei'a, and they train their conscience accordingly.*-Acts 21:25; 1 Corinthians 6:18; Ephesians 5:3.

This isn't the first time (nor the most explicit) they do this, regardless of the age or maturity of the reader.

Sorry for posting this a couple of days later!

Hillary's Overpopulation

Senator Hillary Clinton being interviewed by Closing Bell's Maria Bartiromo.

"I don't know what's going to be happening in the economy in January 2009. Up until then, we have a very different philosophy and attitude in this administration and lots of people who come on your show who are gung ho, "protect the tax-cuts for the wealthiest Americans'. That will not work if the economy slows down. You need money in the pockets of tens of hundreds of millions of Americans. That's what I intend to do."

Tens of hundreds of millions could mean up to a TRILLION. Does she expect a sudden overpopulation to take place?

What does she really intend to do?

14 Year-Old Boy Dies For Religious Reasons

Leukemia patient, Dennis Lindberg, dies after refusing blood transfusion for religious reasons.

"I don't believe Dennis' decision is the result of any coercion. He is mature and understands the consequences of his decision," he said, according to The Associated Press. "I don't think Dennis is trying to commit suicide. This isn't something Dennis just came upon, and he believes with the transfusion he would be unclean and unworthy."

Why does Lindberg believe he will be unclean and unworthy before God's eyes if he went through with a blood transfusion? The article continues.

But Lindberg refused a blood transfusion on religious grounds. Jehovah's Witnesses believe it is impure to receive a blood transfusion; they do not typically refuse other forms of medical care.

What many JW's aren't even aware of is the total hypocrisy of their doctrine.

The Watchtower Sept. 15, 1961 "Is it wrong to sustain life by infusions of blood or plasma or red cells or the various fractions? Yes. The law that God gave to Noah and which applies to all his descendants makes it wrong for anyone to eat blood, that is, to use the blood of another creature to nourish or sustain one’s life."

"Whether whole or fractional, one's own or someone else's, transfused or injected, it is wrong"

Jehovah's Witnesses-Proclaimers of God's Kingdom pp.183-184 "Beginning in 1961 any who ignored the divine requirement, accepted blood transfusions, and manifested an unrepentant attitude were disfellowshipped from the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses."

The "divine requirement", once again, speaking for God. I guess God changed his mind because fractions became acceptable.

The Watchtower June 1, 1990 p.31 "That some protein fractions from the plasma do move naturally into the blood system of another individual (the fetus) may be another consideration when a Christian is deciding whether he will accept immune globulin, albumin, or similar injections of plasma fractions. One person may feel that he in good conscience can; another may conclude that he cannot. Each must resolve the matter personally before God."

The Society states that blood as a whole may not be taken, but fractions of it are allowed, based upon a person's conscience.

Luke 16:10 "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much."

The Bible never intended this pharisaical viewpoint of this medical procedure. I suppose the Society would rather Jesus not heal on a Sabbath.

Related Reading: First Time Donating Blood

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry

I watched "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" starring Adam Sandler and Kevin James and the results aren't surprising.

The central plot of the movie is about a widowed fireman (James) who, fears the worst occupational hazard may occur leaving his two children orphaned and financially unsecured.

He asks his friend and fellow fireman (Sandler) to register as his domestic partner thereby allowing him to be responsible for the welfare of his children. Isn't he aware the same occupational risk remains? Circumstances actually lead these heterosexual men to be married (in Canada) and masquerading as a couple back at home for the benefits.

The only thing I can commend the filmmakers on is for not concealing the conflict between homosexuality and the Word of God. For example, a scene involving a group of people who hold signs expressing their concern, "Where Will You Spend Eternity". Perfect question, but sadly it is left unanswered. Was it just me or did the homosexual crowd comes across as vitriolic and intolerant?

I just saw a preview for "Walk Hard" where a priest gets punched in the face for exclaiming some music is that of the devil's. Though that viewpoint is flawed, I wonder why it's necessary to be included. Not my comedy and neither is this of "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry".

A Letter From Hell

Deliverance from the traps of the Birdcatcher

This week's Wachtower Study is absurd when it comes to promoting themselves.

Paragraph 1. All true Christians face a predator, one with superhuman intelligence and craftiness. He is referred to at Psalm 91:3 as "the birdcatcher." Who is this enemy? Since the issue of June 1, 1883, this magazine has identified him as none other than Satan the Devil. This formidable foe cunningly endeavors to mislead and trap Jehovah's people as a birdcatcher tries to trap a bird.

Does it require great insight to identify the subject in question as the Enemy? Hey, they have really taken a stand and stuck to their guns on this one!

I wish they used this level of expertise when it came to identifying Abaddon/Apollyon from Revelation 9:11

The Finished Mystery pg 159 [And] they [had a] HAVE THEIR king [over them]. — The same king as exercises general rulership over all the ecclesiastical affairs of this present evil world.[Which is] the angel of the [bottomless pit] ABYSS. — "The prince of the power of the air." — Eph. 2:2. Whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon. — And he is "a bad one," sure enough. — 2 Cor. 4:4. But in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. — That is, Destroyer. But in plain English his name is Satan, the Devil.

The Watchtower Dec 1, 1961 When Jesus was on earth as a man, he was a Hebrew, and now in his capacity as Jehovah's royal Executioner he is called by the Hebrew name Abad'don, which means Destruction. (Job 26:6; 28:22; 31:12; 12:23; 14:19) In the Greek in which the inspired Christian Scriptures were written his similar title is Apollyon, which means Destroyer.

Did they apply their spiritual insight when it came to the resurrection of those from Sodom and Gomorrah? They're still flaky on that one.

The Watchtower April 1, 1955 The destruction upon Sodom and Gomorrah must be final, or Jude would not have used it to illustrate the fate of those defilers for whom “the blackness of darkness stands reserved forever”. (Jude 13, NW) Jude 7 shows that those ancient cities had their judgment day back there at the time of their destruction, since they are spoken of as having already undergone an execution of judgment, “the judicial punishment of everlasting fire.”

The Watchtower Jan 1, 1965 Read the account in Matthew 11:20-24, and you will see what Jesus said about consequences. There he said that in the resurrection it will be much better for the people of Tyre, Sidon and Sodom, to whom Jesus never preached, than for those persons to whom Jesus did preach in Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum. It was in these cities that Jesus did many of his powerful works, but they did not repent and follow him. Now, when the resurrection takes place for all these people. They do not want to be like the people of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum, whose reforming after their resurrection will be more difficult than that of those coming back from Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Watchtower July 1, 1967 This the Bible describes as the “second death.” (Rev. 20:14) It means the death from which there is no resurrection. They will be burned up root and branch, as completely gone forever as the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Awake Oct 8, 1974 God’s dealing with Sodom and Gomorrah shows that he takes no pleasure in the death of anyone, but wants all to live, if they will just live respectfully toward their fellowman and in obedience to righteous principles. (Ezek. 33:11; Mic. 6:8) Moreover, God’s undeserved kindness and care are so great that he will bring back the people of Sodom by a resurrection, with opportunity to learn and turn around to the way of life, even as his Son stated.—Luke 10:11

Revelation, Its Grand Climax at Hand Jesus Christ also knew what he thought and stated it in explicit terms. He said that it would be “more endurable for the land of Sodom on Judgment Day” than for the religionists who spurned his message. (Matthew 11:23, 24) Jesus was here using hyperbole to show that those religious leaders who rejected the Son of God and his teaching were even more reprehensible than the Sodomites. Jude 7 states that those Sodomites underwent “the judicial punishment of everlasting fire,” meaning eternal destruction. (Matthew 25:41, 46)

Now, on to the Watchtower being on top of things and ahead of their time.

Paragraph 11. Nearly a quarter of a century ago, The Watchtower lovingly warned the household of faith about TV serials.* ([Footnote] * The Watchtower, December 1, 1982, pages 3-7.) This observation was made about the subtle impact of popular soap operas: "The search for love is used to justify any conduct. For instance, one unwed pregnant youth says to a friend: `But I love Victor. I don't care.... To have his baby is worth everything to me!' The soft background music makes it hard to consider her course to be so bad. You too like Victor. You feel sympathy for the girl. You 'understand.' 'It is amazing how you can rationalize,' stated one viewer who later came to her senses. 'We know that immorality is bad.... But I realized that mentally I was taking part.' "

Paragraph 12. Since those articles were published, this type of heart-corrupting programming has become increasingly available. In many places, such programs are broadcast 24 hours a day. Men, women, and many teenagers frequently feed their minds and hearts on such entertainment. We, though, must not deceive ourselves with false reasoning. It would be wrong to reason that depraved entertainment is no worse than what is seen in the real world. Can a Christian really justify choosing to be entertained by the sort of people he would never dream of inviting into his home?

Paragraph 13. Many benefited when they took to heart that warning provided by "the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45-47) After reading the straightforward, Bible-based counsel, some wrote to tell how the articles had personally affected them.* ([Footnote] * The Watchtower, December 1, 1983, page 23) One confessed: "For 13 years I was a soap-opera addict. I thought that I was safe simply by attending Christian meetings and being semiregular in the field service. But I adopted the worldly soap-opera attitude that if your husband mistreats you or you feel unloved, adultery is justifiable–he brought it on himself. And so when I felt 'justified' I took this bad course and sinned against Jehovah and my mate." This woman was disfellowshipped. Eventually, she carne to her senses, repented, and was reinstated. The articles warning against TV soap operas gave her the strength to refuse to be entertained by what Jehovah hates.-Amos 5:14, 15.

Are JW's getting hooked on All My Children, As the World Turns, The Bold and the Beautiful, Days of our Lives, General Hospital, Guiding Light, One Life to Live, Passions, or The Young and the Restless? Perhaps the "it" shows are Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, Falcon Crest, Knots Landing, Lost, or Ugly Betty.

Why don't they boast about their other "lovingly warn[ings]"? For example, vaccinations.

The Golden Age Jan 5, 1929 "Thinking people would rather have smallpox than vaccination, because the latter sows seeds of syphilis, cancers, eczema, erysipelas, scrofula, consumption, even leprosy and many other loathsome affections. Hence the practice of vaccinations is a crime, an outrage, and a delusion"

The Golden Age Jan 4, 1931 "Vaccination is a direct violation of the everlasting covenant that God made with Noah after the flood."

How loving of them.

The Mist

Having directed the superb "The Shawshank Redemption" and the near perfect "The Green Mile", Frank Darabont is a fine choice for the latest Stephen King adaptation, "The Mist".

After a violent thunderstorm, David Drayton, (Thomas Jane, also in the "Dreamcatcher" adaptation) his son, and his litigious neighbor (Andre Braugher) stop at the town's supermarket for some supplies. However, a mysterious mist descending from the mountains is slowly heading their way.

A man, perhaps Richard Dawkins, breaks into the crowded supermarket, his face bloodied, warning the people to stay away from the mist. Some, overcome with fear, run out only for their last screams of agony to be heard. The townspeople suspect there was been an accident at the plant, but perhaps, the strong military presence spotted earlier indicates something else. Soon enough, strange creatures are seen coming out of the mist.

The creature effects in the first sequence are too computer generated to be believeable. The quality vastly improves later on as evidenced by the deadly species.

The most interesting part of the film is the way the human characters react to this invasion. Mrs. Carmody (Marcia Gay Warden) is determined the book of Revelation is being played out, plague by plague. I would surmise this woman may have been in a cult before the recent events. She believes she can earn her place in God's Kingdom. Always a sign someone is not a christian.

Other beliefs are expressed, for example, humanity is basically good; contempt towards politics and religion; God is not vengeful. All these are taken into consideration to form an escape.

The finale differs from the original story. It is satisfying, but ironic in the sense of a "Twilight Zone" ending.

Dark Tower anyone?

For those who are hurting

For those who are hurting because they feel God will not intercede unless they articulate their precise worries, the Word states.

Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will."

Whenever words fail, the Holy Spirit will pray to the Father FOR US. The Spirit knows our weakness when we sin for He wants us to be like Jesus. The Holy Spirit is still the Comforter today.

John 14:16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Comforter to be with you forever—

Christ promises this.

Not so "undecided" voters

Regarding those questions from "ordinary people, undecided voters" to Senator Hillary Clinton.

From the Astute Bloggers:

"All six of the "ordinary people, undecided voters" who were selected to ask questions appear to be Democratic operatives.

For example, ordinary citizen LaShannon Spencer was a randomly selected participant in the Democratic debate on Thursday. She was described as one of several "undecided voters", but her presence has now been utterly purged from CNN's transcript of the event.

Her debate performance now lives on only in my mind. Oh, and also in the International Herald-Tribune version of the transcript.

CNN identified her only as a member of the First African Methodist Church and not as a director of political affairs for the Democratic Party of Arkansas. Spencer was also associated with the Kerry-Edwards campaign and a member of the Arkansas Democratic Delegation in 2004. But she's just another ordinary citizen, just like you or me."

A Jehovah's Witness Goes Into Eternity

A local brother, not even forty, has recently lost his battle with cancer, leaving behind a wife and a three-year old son.

I went to service (door-to-door ministry) with him a couple of times, but never got to know him very well, sadly that is why I never knew of his condition. He was a cool kind of brother though. In his fifteen years as a baptized Jehovah's Witness he never became a ministerial servant nor an elder, but he did manage the Watchtower and Awake magazine distribution to publishers (JW's who report hours of service to the Society).

His style of preaching was placing the magazines and assuring the person there was no pressure whatsoever to do anything, just to read them.

I will never know in this this life if he had been forgiven by God. One meeting night when he commented he knew Witnesses who had gone through 1975 expecting to see the world end and were now even secretly embittered with the Society. He encouraged us not to be weak, but remain strong.

I should have kept in touch with him somehow and told him about my relationship with JESUS CHRIST.

Hillary an agriculturalist?

Perhaps Senator Hillary Clinton is more like a planter.

Here's another one.

Q: Is Hillary a good tipper?

A: If it's chinese of course, other than that, no.

If You Leave

I haven't had much time to blog. So if you're reading this blog and suddenly decide to leave...

Enjoy the weekend and happy Veterans Day!

"Practice Mercy-How?"

This is post is long overdue, however, I am glad to have been travelling to other churches and visiting the brethren. I met a couple who had just recently found Christ having come out of the Watchtower. Our God is awesome!

The Watchtower Study "PRACTICE MERCY–HOW?" introduces the Good Samaritan parable spoken by Jesus and denies its message quickly.

Paragraph 1 While speaking with Jesus, a man versed in the Law asked him: "Who really is my neighbor?" In reply, Jesus related the following parable: "A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among robbers, who both stripped him and inflicted blows, and went off, leaving him half-dead. Now, by coincidence, a certain priest was going down over that road, but, when he saw him, he went by on the opposite side. Likewise, a Levite also, when he got down to the place and saw him, went by on the opposite side. But a certain Samaritan traveling the road came upon him and, at seeing him, he was moved with pity. So he approached him and bound up his wounds, pouring oil and wine upon them. Then he mounted him upon his own beast and brought him toan inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, `Take care of him, and whatever you spend besides this, I will repay you when I come back here."' Next, Jesus asked his listener: "Who of these three seems to you to have made himself neighbor to the man that fell among the robbers?" The man answered: "The one that acted mercifully toward him."-Luke 10:25, 29-37a.

Paragraph 2 How vividly the Samaritan's treatment of the injured man illustrates what true mercy is! Moved by a feeling of pity, or compassion, the Samaritan acted in a way that brought relief to the victim. Moreover, the man in need was a stranger to the Samaritan. Mercy is not hindered by national, religious, or cultural barriers. After giving the illustration about the neighborly Samaritan, Jesus advised his listener: "Go your way and be doing the same yourself." (Luke 10:37b) We can take that admonition to heart and strive to be merciful to others. But how? In what ways can we practice mercy in our everyday life?

Paragraph 3 "As long as we have time favorable for it," said the apostle Paul, "let us work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith." (Galatians 6:10) Let us, then, first consider how we can abound in deeds of mercy toward those related to us in the faith.

The next dozen paragraphs deal with how to be merciful towards other Jehovah's Witnesses. They can do so by "preparing a meal for a sick person, assisting an elderly one with chores, providing transportation to Christian meetings when necessary, and not being close-fisted toward deserving ones are among the deeds of mercy" they "should abound in."

However you may view these, at least these are practical ways of helping, but what can be done toward OTHERS outside their organization?

Paragraph 16 As Christians, we do not hesitate to provide whatever help we can to victims of "unforeseen occurrence" or to those in dire situations. (Ecclesiastes 9:11) Of course, circumstances would dictate what we can do and how much. (Proverbs 3:27) When providing material help to others, we want to be careful that a deed that seems good does not promote laziness. (Proverbs 20:1, 4; 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12) Hence, a true act of mercy is a response that combines tender feelings of compassion or sympathy with sound reasoning.

Paragraph 17 The finest way to show mercy to those outside the Christian congregation is to share Bible truth with them. Why? Because the majority of mankind today are groping about in spiritual darkness. Having no way to deal with problems that confront them nor any real hope for the future, most people are "skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd." (Matthew 9:36) The message of God's Word can be `a lamp to their foot,' helping them to deal with life's problems. It can also be `a light to their roadway' in that the Bible foretells God's purpose for the future, giving them a basis for having a bright hope. (Psalm 119:105) What a privilege it is to carry the wonderful message of truth to those who are in dire need of it! In view of the nearness of the impending "great tribulation," now is the time to have a zealous share in the Kingdom preaching and disciple-making work. (Matthew 24:3-8, 21, 22, 36-41; 28:19, 20) No other act of mercy is as important.

Two paragraphs are devoted to showing mercy toward OTHERS. Why then even mention the Good Samaritan parable and miss the point? Both Jews and Samaritans despised and regarded each other as apostates. They had their own holy sites and line of priests.

2 Kings chapter 27 provides a lot of insight.

2 King 27:27 Then the king of Assyria gave this order: "Have one of the priests you took captive from Samaria go back to live there and teach the people what the god of the land requires." 28 So one of the priests who had been exiled from Samaria came to live in Bethel and taught them how to worship the LORD.

29 Nevertheless, each national group made its own gods in the several towns where they settled, and set them up in the shrines the people of Samaria had made at the high places. 30 The men from Babylon made Succoth Benoth, the men from Cuthah made Nergal, and the men from Hamath made Ashima; 31 the Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children in the fire as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim. 32 They worshiped the LORD, but they also appointed all sorts of their own people to officiate for them as priests in the shrines at the high places. 33 They worshiped the LORD, but they also served their own gods in accordance with the customs of the nations from which they had been brought.

34 To this day they persist in their former practices. They neither worship the LORD nor adhere to the decrees and ordinances, the laws and commands that the LORD gave the descendants of Jacob, whom he named Israel.

The enmity was evident when the Lord was accused not only of having a demon.

John 8:48 The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?"

Here was the Lord interacting with one of these hated ones.

John 4:9 The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)

The Watchtower should listen to the words that Jesus said.

Matthew 5:43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?

Against You, You Only, I Have Sinned

The Watchtower study "YOUR FATHER IS MERCIFUL" disparages the entire point.

Paragraph 11 In the case of David and Bath-sheba, before the judgment of the death penalty could be softened, there had to be a pardoning of their sin. The Israelite judges were not authorized to do this. If they had been allowed to handle the case, they would have had no alternative but to pronounce the sentence of death. This is what the Law required. Out of regard for his covenant with David, however, Jehovah wanted to see if there was a basis for forgiving David's sin. (2 Samuel 7:12-16) Hence, Jehovah God, "the Judge of all the earth," who is "an examiner of the heart," chose to handle the matter himself. (Genesis 18:25; 1 Chronicles 29:17) God could accurately read David's heart, evaluate the genuineness of his repentance, and grant forgiveness.

Did God have to see if there was a basis to forgive David's sin?

2 Samuel 7:12 When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod of men, with floggings inflicted by men. 15 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.' "

Nowhere is it written God was taken by surprise and now had to review the facts and determine if there was validity to absolve David. The Covenant was not given as a means to be influenced by such a factor.

The Society's viewpoint if played out is that God did in fact violate his own Law. They just admitted "the Israelite judges were not authorized to do this. If they had been allowed to handle the case, they would have had no alternative but to pronounce the sentence of death. This is what the Law required." Who's Law? Jehovah's spoken and written Law.

Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

The Watchtower continues,

Paragraph 12 The mercy that Jehovah shows us by making possible our release from the penalty of inherited sin is in accord with his justice. To make possible the forgiveness of sin without the violation of justice, Jehovah has provided the ransom sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ–the greatest expression of mercy ever shown. (Matthew 20:28; Romans 6:22, 23) To avail ourselves of God's mercy, which can save us from receiving punishment for inherited sin, we must `exercise faith in the Son.'-John 3:16, 36.

If you were to ask a Jehovah's Witness who has done the greatest act of love and mercy he or she would say Jehovah--in their minds only the Father is Jehovah.

Yet, Jesus plainly reveals:

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

According to the Watchtower's doctrine, a creature has outperformed God in love and mercy! For a christian, God is the one who loves supremely.

Paragraph 19 The disciple James tells us why we should make mercy an essential quality in our lives. He wrote: "Mercy exults triumphantly over judgment." (James 2:13b) James was speaking of the mercy that a worshipper of Jehovah shows toward others. It exults triumphantly over judgment in that when the time comes for a person to "render an account for himself to God," Jehovah takes into consideration his merciful dealings and forgives him on the basis of the ransom sacrifice of His Son. (Romans 14:12) No doubt, one of the reasons why David was shown mercy for his sin with Bath-sheba was that he himself was a merciful man. (1 Samuel 24:4-7) On the other hand, "the one that does not practice mercy will have his judgment without mercy." (James 2: 13a) No wonder the "merciless" are listed among those whom God views as "deserving of death"! -Romans 1:31, 32.

No doubt?

1 Samuel 24:6 So he said to his men, "Far be it from me because of the LORD that I should do this thing to my lord, the LORD'S anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, since he is the LORD'S anointed."

Do they forget David too was the LORD's anointed (1 Samuel 16:13). Do they forget David wanted to kill Nabal and all his men for insulting him (1 Samuel 25)? Do they forget he not only committed adultery with Bath-sheba, but planned the murder of her husband Uriah and later was responsible for the death of 70,000 men (2 Samuel 11:14-16 and 1 Chronicles 21)?

They quote part of Psalm 51 on paragraph 8 but skim over the significance.

Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Why is David calling out to blot out his transgressions commited unto God alone? Why does there need to be a washing away of iniquity and cleansing of sin? What is the significance of the hyssop plant used for sprinkling the blood of sacrifices by the priest?

It is because King David looked forward to his Lord who would gloriously overcome the everpresent sin.

Jesus Christ, the Lord of Lords, saves us from everlasting punishment for OUR OWN sins if we repent, believe, and trust our lives to Him. We too can have our iniquities washed away and become cleaner and whiter than snow.

Matthew 25:46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

Watchtower January 15, 2008 in English

"Since 1879, through periods of war, economic hardship, and persecution, The Watchtower has faithfully proclaimed truths about God's Kingdom."

And so begins another chapter.