Astonishing Realizations

No other way

2010-01-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

I like what God is doing right now in my life. So many decisions, chapters, and intersections of my past are what I am dealing with.

God continues to amaze me.

I>L>Y

Ps. How's that Obama thing working out for ya?

Oh when will I blog more than just a few words?

2009-07-30T21:39:00.000-07:00

I have so much to blog about and not enough time!

Lord bless you, whoever reads this blog anymore.

Okay...it's not negligence

2009-05-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

It's not negligence...it is love!

Yes, praise God for this woman! I will be checking back soon (Ha!).

I praise you Lord.

Living for God

2009-03-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

God is good! My world has turned upside down. More to come later on.

His Kingdom was, is, and is to come.

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, thank you!

Obama wins

2008-11-05T08:01:00.000-08:00

With President-designate Barack Hussein Obama I feel we should hang on to our wallets.

Reasons for McCain and against Obama

2008-10-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

Someone else who gets it.

"He has a name..oops..umm"

2008-10-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

I didn't get around to publishing this one much earlier, but it's been on my mind.

After the second presidential debate, Obama's campaign complained how McCain referred to the community organizer as "that one". They didn't like how he didn't address him by his name.

Why the fit when people say: Barack Hussein Obama? Isn't that his name?

"Biden garbles Depression History"

2008-09-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Ben Smith writes:

Biden garbles Depression history

Joe Biden's denunciation of his own campaign's ad to Katie Couric got so much attention last night that another odd note in the interview slipped by.

He was speaking about the role of the White House in a financial crisis.

"When the stock market crashed, Franklin Roosevelt got on the television and didn't just talk about the princes of greed," Biden told Couric. "He said, 'Look, here's what happened.'"

As Reason's Jesse Walker footnotes it: "And if you owned an experimental TV set in 1929, you would have seen him. And you would have said to yourself, 'Who is that guy? What happened to President Hoover?'"

That's Not It Gibson!

2008-09-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

Charles Krauthammer, who coined the term "Bush Doctrine" had this to say.

"At times visibly nervous . . . Ms. Palin most visibly stumbled when she was asked by Mr. Gibson if she agreed with the Bush doctrine. Ms. Palin did not seem to know what he was talking about. Mr. Gibson, sounding like an impatient teacher, informed her that it meant the right of 'anticipatory self-defense.' " -- New York Times, Sept. 12
Informed her? Rubbish.
The New York Times got it wrong. And Charlie Gibson got it wrong.
There is no single meaning of the Bush doctrine. In fact, there have been four distinct meanings, each one succeeding another over the eight years of this administration -- and the one Charlie Gibson cited is not the one in common usage today. It is utterly different.
He asked Palin, "Do you agree with the Bush doctrine?"
She responded, quite sensibly to a question that is ambiguous, "In what respect, Charlie?"
Sensing his "gotcha" moment, Gibson refused to tell her. After making her fish for the answer, Gibson grudgingly explained to the moose-hunting rube that the Bush doctrine "is that we have the right of anticipatory self-defense."
Wrong.

Krauthammer goes on to explain the reasons why and concludes with:

Yes, Sarah Palin didn't know what it is. But neither does Charlie Gibson. And at least she didn't pretend to know -- while he looked down his nose and over his glasses with weary disdain, sighing and "sounding like an impatient teacher," as the Times noted. In doing so, he captured perfectly the establishment snobbery and intellectual condescension that has characterized the chattering classes' reaction to the mother of five who presumes to play on their stage.

McCain Bio

2008-09-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

As opposed to Senator Obama, Senator McCain does not need to hide his background and omit large parts of his life.

New on my Boycott List..Updated

2008-09-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

Let's see, I am not going to support any projects involving:

1. Matt Damon
2. Us Weekly
3. Barbra Streisand
4. George Clooney
5. Bill Maher
6. Pamela Anderson
7. Eva Longoria
8. MSNBC
9. Whoopi Goldberg
10. Roger Ebert
11. Lindsay Lohan

Bid Biden Farewell?

2008-09-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

If McCain or Palin had been caught in this situation it would be front page news! However, you won't see this gaffe in the mainstream media.

Biden actually calls into question Obama's judgment and most important decision by saying "Make no mistake about this. Hillary Clinton is as qualified or more qualified than I am to be vice president of the United States of America. Let’s get that straight. She’s a truly close personal friend, she is qualified to be president of the United States of America, she’s easily qualified to be vice president of the United States of America, and quite frankly, it might have been a better pick than me. But she’s first rate, I mean that sincerely, she’s first rate, so let’s get that straight."

Why did he not tell this to Obama then?

The liberals have a reason to be scared!

An American Carol

2008-09-09T10:36:00.001-07:00

Just when I was blogging about Hollywood...

Liberal Hollywood

2008-09-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to figure out why there are not many Hollywood figures supporting McCain and Palin. I find it odd how they attend the DNC and hold fundraisers for Obama, yet virtually ignore the GOP.

Are there any conservatives in the industry?

Oh well, I'm just excited for the republican ticket!

McCain-Palin 2008!

2008-09-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

Now I can send checks to John McCain in good conscience! I was going for Romney, but I couldn't be happier to have Sarah Palin as Vice President.

Unrepentant Terrorist

2008-08-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

Not Obama

2008-08-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

U.S. Americans, out of the two choices who would you prefer to be president, Obama or McCain?

If McCain chose Romney as VP, I would have another reason to vote for him.

In the Lord's Service

2008-08-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

The Lord has been kind to me. At my church I have been able to help those who want to reach out to their JW friends with the good news of our Saviour.

I have just met a brother in Christ who had been under the chains of the Watchtower for 17 years and now has found freedom from not only that, but from sin and death.

Thank you God, you rule!

More people leaving!

2008-08-05T22:17:00.000-07:00

Let's say that half the people who were in the JW organization while I was growing up (and whom I knew) have now left it.

I can say a few of them have been given eternal life in Jesus Christ.

Still Alive!

2008-07-18T06:29:00.001-07:00

Thanks for your concern Mike! I'm still alive thanks to the Divine One.

My church has just formed a praise band/choir and I am in both. We've only been at it for over a month now and already have ten songs under the belt. That may not sound like many, but considering the Lord started this from the ground up -only the drummer and I had any previous musical experience- it is amazing we've gotten this far.

Practice sessions can be demanding and some people have come and gone. I was demoted once when my microphone was taken from me, but that was until yesterday when the sound system was upgraded allowing more microphone accessibility.

I am also facing many trials and difficulties. Please pray the Holy Spirit works in me.

According to Romans 8, God has predestined his children to be called, justified, and glorified. We will overcome because it is the Master who is for us, not against us, allowing His Mercy to be shown.

May God bless you reader!

The Audacity

2008-06-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Call On the Name of Jesus

2008-06-18T16:30:00.001-07:00

Food for thought.

Rom 10:9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. 11 As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved

To call on the Lord is to call on God.

Psalms 116:13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD.

Zeph 3:9 "Then will I purify the lips of the peoples,that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve him shoulder to shoulder.

1 Cor 1:2 To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours

May God bless and keep you!

The Ineloquence of Obama

2008-06-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

If John McCain had said all this, there would be cries of "senility". However, since this is Obama, he will get a free pass. Take away the teleprompter and Obama is far from a great orator.

Obama Never Knows

2008-06-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

Senator Barack Obama is always shocked to know the character and nature of his friends and associates.

"This isn't the Tony Rezko I knew."

"The person I saw yesterday was not the person that I met 20 years ago...If Reverend Wright thinks that that’s political posturing, as he put it, then he doesn’t know me very well — based on his remarks yesterday I may not know him as well as I thought either,” Obama said.

Also, Pfleger. Their relationship spans decades. Pfleger has given money to Obama's campaigns and Obama as a state legislator directed at least $225,000 towards social programs at St. Sabina's.

How Great Is Our God

2008-05-31T15:53:00.000-07:00

Chris Tomlin's song of praise to the King.

"Repudiate 'Valueless Things'"

2008-05-18T12:22:00.001-07:00

Here is another video by V, an active JW.

Obama: The shoe fits and he is wearing it

2008-05-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

Barack Obama is in a state of conniption after President George W. Bush addressed the Israeli knesset.

The President had said, "We have heard this foolish delusion before. As Nazi tanks crossed into Poland in 1939, an American senator declared: `Lord, if only I could have talked to Hitler, all of this might have been avoided.' We have an obligation to call this what it is -- the false comfort of appeasement, which has been repeatedly discredited by history."

Obama, along with many other democrats, took these remarks as a personal political attack.

Yet democrats never lose an opportunity to slam the President...even in foreign soil!

Clinton blasts Bush for not stopping a project Bill OK'd

2008-04-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

From Steven Thomma of McClatchy Newspapers:

Here's how Clinton tells it in a recent television ad she aired in Indiana.

"Right here, over 200 Hoosiers built parts that guided our military's smart bombs to their targets," the New York senator says.

"They were good jobs, but now, they're gone to China. And now America's defense relies on Chinese spare parts. George Bush could have stopped it, but he didn't. As your president, I will fight to keep good jobs here, and to turn this economy around. I'm Hillary Clinton and I approve this message because American workers should build America's defense."

What does Senator Clinton conveniently leave out?

What Clinton never tells in the oft-repeated tale is the role prominent Democrats played in selling the company and its technology to the Chinese. She never mentions that big-time Democratic contributor George Soros helped put together the deal to sell the company, or that the sale was approved by the administration of her husband.

"Hillary Clinton must have been hoping we Hoosiers have short memories," Ed Dixon of Valparaiso said in a letter to a local newspaper after a recent Clinton visit. "Her husband was president at the time and allowed this to happen."

"They would have us believe Bush was behind this sale," added Fred Sliger of Valparaiso in another letter, "when in fact the Clinton administration rubber-stamped this along with the sale of numerous other high-tech secrets to the Chinese. …Let's get the facts straight."

JW Meeting Schedule Changes

2008-04-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

A letter from the Society to the Body of Elders:

Commencing January 1, 2009 the Congregation Book Study will be held at the same time as the Theocratic Ministry School and the Service Meeting. The name of the Congregation Book Study will be changed to the Congregation Bible Study. After a song and prayer the Congregation Bible Study will be conducted for 25 minutes in much the same way as it is conducted now. Qualified elders will conduct the study on a rotation basis. It will be followed by a 30 minute Theocratic Ministry School. After another song there will be a 35 minute Service Meeting. The three meetings will conclude with song and prayer. The total time for these three meetings including songs and prayers will be 1 hour and 45 minutes.

I notice they are trying to mask the vapidness of their study by calling it a Congregation Bible Study, which is no bible study at all. It will be studying Watchtower literature hence "will be conducted similar to the way it is now".

They also attribute this change to rising fuel costs. This full hour that will no longer be a burden to JW's from their weekly schedules and can be used for taking care of the family and reading their literature (or as they call it, Bible study).

"Christ's Presence—What Does It Mean to You"

2008-04-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

An excellent video bringing attention to the "Truth" presented by the Watchtower is not really the truth at all.

In particular, the Generation.

The Only Way

2008-04-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

This is when Oprah went into some strange territory about many ways being the same and all it takes is a loving heart (JW's call it honesthearted, the kind of people God accepts). However, one lady in the audience is unafraid to point out Jesus is the only Way.

Would I have been just as courageous to confront Oprah on her own show that reaches millions?

Great job sister!

Care To Guess?

2008-04-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed

2008-04-07T22:31:00.000-07:00

Ben Stein has produced a film that needs to be seen.

In theatres nationwide April 18, 2008.

For more information please visit: getexpelled.com

Just Ask Him

2008-04-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Excuse me Lil' Dude, but what do you think of a possible Obama or Clinton Presidency?

"Keep Jehovah Before You Constantly"

2008-03-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

This is the Watchtower Study from the February 15, 2008 Members Only Edition. They start out with a verse.

Psalms 16:8 I have placed Jehovah in front of me constantly

I wish they also included the following one.

Hebrews 12:2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Praise Jesus!

P1 JEHOVAH'S written Word contains a splendid record of God's dealings with mankind. It mentions many people who have figured in the outworking of God's purpose. Of course, their words and deeds are not included in the Bible as mere stories for our enjoyment. Instead, such accounts can draw us closer to God.-Jas. 4:8.

So are they going to place Jesus in front of them constantly?

P2 All of us can learn much from the experiences of well-known Bible characters—Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Ruth, David, Esther, the apostle Paul, and others. However, accounts about less prominent individuals can also benefit us. Meditating on Bible narratives can help us to act in harmony with the psalmist's words: "I have placed Jehovah in front of me constantly. Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be made to totter." (Ps. 16:8) How are we to understand these words?

They have already excluded Jesus Christ.

P3 A soldier usually wielded his sword with his right hand, leaving that side unprotected by the shield held in his left hand. Yet, he was protected if a friend fought near him on his right. If we keep Jehovah in mind and do his will, he will protect us. So let us see how considering Bible accounts can strengthen our faith so that we "keep Jehovah always before[us]."—Byington.

The Watchtower's usual bag: do things for God so He will do things for you.

P4 If we keep Jehovah before us, he will answer our prayers. (Ps. 65:2; 66:19) We have proof of this in the case of Abraham's oldest servant, likely Eliezer. Abraham sent him to Mesopotamia to obtain a God-fearing wife for Isaac. Eliezer prayed for divine guidance and recognized it as such when Rebekah watered his camels. Because he was prayerful, Eliezer found the one who became Isaac's beloved wife. (Gen. 24:12-14, 67) True, Abraham's servant was on a special mission. But should we not be just as confident that Jehovah hears our prayers?

How does proof become not-so-foolproof in just a few sentences?

P5 At times, we may need to pray quickly for God's help. On one occasion, Persian King Artaxerxes noticed that his cupbearer Nehemiah was gloomy. "What is this that you are seeking to secure?" asked the king. "At once [Nehemiah] prayed to the God of the heavens." Nehemiah could not linger in that apparently silent prayer. Yet, God answered it, for Nehemiah was given the king's support to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. [Read Nehemiah 2:1-8.) Yes, even a brief, silent prayer can be effective.

Yes and God also knows what we need before we do.

P6 We are urged to "pray for one another," even though we do not always get immediate proof that such prayers are being answered. (Jas. 5:16) Epaphras, "a faithful minister of the Christ," prayed earnestly for those related to him in the faith. Writing from Rome, Paul said: "Epaphras, who is from among you [Colossians], a slave of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings, always exerting himself in your behalf in his prayers, that you may finally stand complete and with firm conviction in all the will of God. I indeed bear him witness that he puts himself to great effort in behalf of you and of those at Laodicea and of those at Hierapolis/'-Col. 1:7; 4:12,13.

Thank you brother Epaphras, Christ's love for you is a blessing!

P7 Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis were cities in the same area of Asia Minor. Christians at Hierapolis lived among worshippers of the goddess Cybele, materialism threatened those in Laodicea, and the Colossians were endangered by human philosophy.(Col. 2:8) No wonder Epaphras, who was from Colossae, 'exerted himself in prayers' for believers in that city! The Bible does not disclose how the prayers of Epaphras were answered, but he did not stop praying for fellow believers; neither should we. Although we are not 'busybodies in other people's matters,' perhaps we know that a family member or a friend is experiencing a severe test of faith. (1 Pet. 4:15) How appropriate it would be to pray privately in his behalf! Paul was helped by the supplications of others, and our prayers can likewise do much good. -2 Cor. 1:10,11.

Would it be inappropriate to pray on someone's behalf publicly?

P8 Do others look upon us as men and women of prayer? After Paul met with the elders from Ephesus, "he kneeled down with all of them and prayed." Then "quite a bit of weeping broke out among them all, and they fell upon Paul's neck and tenderly kissed him, because they were especially pained at the word he had spoken that they were going to behold his face no more." (Acts 20:36-38) We do not know the names of all those elders, but it is evident that they appreciated the importance of prayer. Surely we ought to cherish the privilege of praying to God and should 'lift up loyal hands' in faith that our heavenly Father will answer us.—1 Tim. 2:8.

Try kneeling down or lifting up your hands in prayer at a Kingdom Hall.

P9 Keeping Jehovah in mind constantly will help us to obey him, and we will reap blessings as a consequence. (Deut. 28:13; 1 Sam. 15:22) This calls for an obedient spirit. Consider the attitude of five fleshly sisters, the daughters of Zelophehad, who lived in Moses' day. Among the Israelites, sons customarily received the inheritance from their fathers. The man Zelophehad died without sons, and Jehovah directed that these five women were to receive the entire inheritance—on one condition. They had to marry sons of Manassen so that the inherited property would remain with the same tribe.—Num. 27:1-8; 36: 6-8.
P10 Zelophehad's daughters had faith that things would work out well if they obeyed God. "Just as Jehovah had commanded Moses, that is the way the daughters of Zelophehad did," says the Bible. "Accordingly Mahlah, Tirzah and Hoglah and Milcah and Noah, the daughters of Zelophehad, became the wives of the sons of their father's brothers. To some of the families of the sons of Manasseh the son of Joseph they became wives, that their inheritance might continue together with the tribe of the family of their father." (Num. 36:10-12) Those obedient women did what Jehovah commanded. (Josh. 17:3, 4) With similar faith, spiritually mature unmarried Christians obey God by marrying "only in the Lord."—1 Cor. 7:39.

Perhaps JW's are not marrying other JW's.

P11 We need to obey Jehovah completely, as the Israelite Caleb did. (Deut. 1:36) After Israel's deliverance from Egypt in the 16th century B.C.E., Moses sent 12 men to spy out Canaan, but only 2 of the spies—Caleb and Joshua—urged the people to have full trust in God and enter the land. (Num. 14:6-9) Some four decades later, Joshua and Caleb were still alive and following Jehovah fully, and God used Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. However, the ten faithless spies evidently died during Israel's 40-year trek in the wilderness.—Num. 14:31-34.

Obeying God even if it means disobeying the Governing Body?

P12 As an elderly survivor of Israel's experience in the wilderness, Caleb could stand before Joshua and say: "I followed Jehovah my God fully." (Read Joshua 14:6-9.) Eighty-five-year-old Caleb asked that he be given the mountainous region that God had promised him, although it was inhabited by enemies in their great fortified cities.-Josh. 14:10-15.
P13 Like faithful and obedient Caleb, we will have divine support if we 'follow Jehovah fully.' If we face great obstacles, we will be blessed as we 'follow Jehovah fully.' But doing so throughout life, as Caleb did, can be a challenge. Although King Solomon started out very well, his wives inclined his heart to serve false gods in his old age, and "he did not follow Jehovah fully like David his father."(1 Ki. 11:4-6) Regardless of the trials we must face, may we always obey God completely and keep him before us constantly.

Completely and constantly, can they do that themselves?

P14 We need to trust in God especially when we are depressed because our future seems bleak. Consider elderly Naomi, who lost her husband and her two sons to the enemy death. When she returned to Judah from Moab, she lamented: "Do not call me Naomi ["My Pleasantness," ftn.]. Call me Mara ["Bitter,"ftn.], for the Almighty has made it very bitter for me. I was full when I went, and it is empty-handed that Jehovah has made me return. Why should you call me Naomi, when it is Jehovah that has humiliated me and the Almighty that has caused me calamity?" -Ruth 1:20, 21.
P15 Although Naomi was distressed, a careful reading of the book of Ruth shows that she kept on trusting in Jehovah. And how things changed for her! Naomi's widowed daughter-in-law Ruth became the wife of Boaz and gave birth to a son. Naomi became the child's nurse, and the account says: "The neighbor ladies gave it a name, saying: 'A son has been born to Naomi/ And they began to call his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, David's father." (Ruth 4:14-17) When Naomi is resurrected to life on earth, she will learn that Ruth, who will also be there, became an ancestress of Jesus, the Messiah. (Matt. 1:5,6, 16) Like Naomi, we cannot be sure of how negative situations will turn out. Therefore, let us always trust in God, just as we are admonished at Proverbs 3:5, 6: "Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding. In all your ways take notice of him, and he himself will make your paths straight."

Knowing God is Sovereign over all helps! Also, is God's Word not direct enough?

P16 If we keep Jehovah before us constantly, he will lead us by his holy spirit (Gal. 5:16-18) God's spirit was upon the 70 older men chosen to help Moses in "carrying the load of the people" of Israel. Only Eldad and Medad are named, but the spirit enabled all of them to carry out their duties. (Num. 11:13-29) Undoubtedly, they were capable, God-fearing, trustworthy, and honest like those chosen earlier. (Ex. 18:21) Such qualities are displayed by Christian elders today.

By a force such as electricity or gravity? How about by God the Holy Spirit?

Acts 5:3 Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God."
Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off

P17 Jehovah's holy spirit played an important role in the construction of the tabernacle in the wilderness. Jehovah appointed Bezalel as the principal artisan and builder of the tabernacle, promising to "fill him with the spirit of God in wisdom and in understanding and in knowledge and in every kind of craftsmanship." (Ex. 31:3-5) Men "wise of heart" worked with Bezalel and his assistant Oholiab in carrying out that wonderful assignment. Moreover, Jehovah's spirit moved willinghearted people to make generous contributions.(Ex. 31:6; 35:5, 30-34) That same spirit motivates God's present-day servants to do all they can to promote Kingdom interests.(Matt. 6:33) We may have certain abilities, but we need to pray for holy spirit and let it lead us if we are to accomplish the work Jehovah has given his people in our day.—Luke 11:13.

Are their Kingdom interests the same as God's?

Matthew 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
Luke 13:3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.

Please, repent for your wrongdoings and trust solely in Jesus Christ, this brings glory to the Holy Father.

P18 The holy spirit produces within us a reverent attitude that keeps Jehovah before us constantly. God's ancient people were told: "Jehovah of Armies you are to revere as holy." (Isa. 8:13, Byington) Two reverent elderly persons in first-century Jerusalem were Simeon and Anna. (Read Luke 2:25-38,) Simeon put faith in the Messianic prophecies and was "waiting for Israel's consolation." God poured out holy spirit upon Simeon and assured him that he would live to see the Messiah. And that is what happened. One day in the year 2 B.C.E., Jesus was brought to the temple by Mary and Joseph, the infant's mother and adoptive father. Moved by holy spirit, Simeon uttered prophetic words about the Messiah and foretold sorrow for Mary, who experienced grief when Jesus was impaled on a torture stake. But imagine the great joy Simeon experienced when he took into his arms "the Christ of Jehovah"! And what a fine example of reverence Simeon set for God's servants today!

Does that mean a JW can offer praise and thanksgiving directly to Jesus Christ?

Isaiah 8:13 The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy
Isaiah 48:11 For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another.
John 17:5 And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.
Revelation 4:13 Then I heard every living thing in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and in the sea and all that are in them. They were saying, "Thanks and honor and shining-greatness and all power are to the One Who sits on the throne and to the Lamb forever." 14 The four living beings kept saying, "Let it be so!" And the twenty-four leaders fell down and worshiped.

Thank you for taking my sins upon that cross Lord!

P19 The reverent 84-year-old widow Anna "was never missing from the temple." She rendered sacred service to Jehovah night and day "with fastings and supplications." Anna too was present when the babe Jesus was brought to the temple. How grateful she was to see the future Messiah! Indeed, she "began returning thanks to God and speaking about the child to all those waiting for Jerusalem's deliverance." Anna just had to share this good news with others! Like Simeon and Anna, elderly Christians today are very glad that people are never too old to serve Jehovah as his Witnesses.

She preached Christ even as He was a baby!

P20 Regardless of our age, we need to keep Jehovah before us constantly. Then he will bless our humble efforts to tell others about his kingship and his wonderful works. (Ps. 71:17,18; 145:10-13) If we are to honor Jehovah, however, we must display godly qualities. What can we learn about such traits by examining further Bible accounts?

Jehovah's Kingship

Psalms 145:10 All you have made will praise you, O LORD; your saints will extol you. 11 They will tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, 12 so that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made
Hebrews 1:8 But about the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever, and righteousness will be the scepter of your kingdom
Psalm 2:6 "I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill." 7 I will proclaim the decree of the LORD : He said to me, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father. 8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. 9 You will rule them with an iron scepter; you will dash them to pieces like pottery."
2 Peter 1:11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 43:15 I am the LORD, your Holy One, Israel's Creator, your King."
John 1:49 Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."

Senator Clinton's "Experience"

2008-03-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

This is not the first time she "misspoke" about this event either.

Democrat Scandal

2008-03-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

When Idaho Senator Larry Craig made headlines, the stories made sure to highlight his affiliation. For example, Republican U.S. senator from Idaho to leave Senate.

In the most recent scandal, which involves Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, can you guess what his political affiliation is? These top stories do not mention it here, here, nor here.

The latest scandal involves another democrat.

"Are Humans Meant to be Monogamous?"

2008-03-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

Are they deliberately publishing this dreck?

From LiveScience:

Social monogamy is a term referring to creatures that pair up to mate and raise offspring but still have flings. Sexually monogamous pairs mate with only with one partner. So a cheating husband who detours for a romantic romp yet returns home in time to tuck in the kids at night would be considered socially monogamous.

Beyond that, scientists' definitions for monogamy vary.

Evolutionary psychologists have suggested that men are more likely to have extramarital sex, partially due to the male urge to "spread genes" by broadcasting sperm. Both males and females, these scientists say, try to up their evolutionary progress by seeking out high-quality mates, albeit in different ways.

"Counted Worthy To Be Guided To Fountains Of Waters Of Life"

2008-03-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

From the January 15, 2008 Study for Members Only.

P1 God's Word identifies anointed Christians who are caring for Christ's interests on earth as "the faithful and discreet slave." When Christ inspected the "slave" in 1918, he found those anointed ones on earth to be faithful in providing spiritual "food at the proper time." Hence, Jesus, the Master, was pleased thereafter to appoint them "over all his belongings." (Read Matthew 24:45-47.) In this way, before receiving a heavenly inheritance, anointed ones serve other worshippers of Jehovah here on earth.

This is the spiritual food provided at the proper time.

The Finished Mystery, 1917, p. 542 As the fleshly-minded apostates from Christianity, siding with the radicals and revolutionaries, will rejoice at the inheritance of desolation that will be Christendom's after 1918, so will God do to the successful revolutionary movement; it shall be utterly desolated, "even all of it." Not one vestige of it shall survive the ravages of world-wide all embracing anarchy, in the fall of 1920.
Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 1918, p. 89 "Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews 11, to the condition of human perfection."
The Finished Mystery, 1917 edition, p. 485 Also, in the year 1918, when God destroys the churches wholesale and the church members by millions, it shall be that any that escape shall come to the works of Pastor Russell to learn the meaning of the downfall of Christianity.
The Watchtower October 15, 1917 There will be no slip-up...Abraham should enter upon the actual possession of his promised inheritance in the year 1925'

And they expect Jesus to be thrilled by these truths!

P2 A master has authority over his belongings, or possessions, and he can use them as he chooses. The belongings of Jesus Christ, Jehovah's enthroned King, embrace all Kingdom interests on earth. That includes "a great crowd" seen by the apostle John in vision. John describes the great crowd as follows: "Look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands."-Rev. 7:9.

The Governing Body means, "We have the authority to do whatever we want with you".

P3 Members of that great crowd are among those referred to by Jesus as his "other sheep." (John 10:16) Their hope is to live forever on a paradise earth. They are confident that Jesus "will guide them to fountains of waters of life" and that "God will wipe out every tear from their eyes." With that in mind, they have "washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (Rev. 7:14, 17) They exercise faith in Jesus' sacrifice, and thus in God's eyes they have `white robes.' They are declared righteous as friends of God, like Abraham.

They will never see and live with the Father and Son though.

P4 Moreover, since the growing great crowd of other sheep are viewed by God as righteous, they can hope to survive the destruction of this system of things at the great tribulation. (Jas. 2:23-26) They can draw close to Jehovah, and as a group, they have the wonderful prospect of surviving Armageddon. (Jas. 4:8; Rev. 7:15) They are not independent but willing to serve under the direction of the heavenly King and his anointed brothers on earth.

The implication is that the great crowd are under the direction of Jesus and his anointed brothers. However, all JW's who proclaim to be anointed are NOT directing the worldwide organization. Only a group of men in Brooklyn, the Governing Body, do that. All JW's are to be submissive to these men.

P5 Anointed Christians have met and will continue to meet severe opposition from Satan's world. Nevertheless, they can rely on the support of their companions of the great crowd. While anointed Christians are now few in number, the great crowd yearly increases by hundreds of thousands. The anointed are unable to oversee personally each of the some 100,000 Christian congregations throughout the world. Thus, one aspect of the support that the anointed receive from the other sheep is that qualified men of the great crowd serve as congregation elders. They help care for the millions of Christians now entrusted to "the faithful and discreet slave."

Actually the number of JW's claiming to be anointing are growing.

In 2005: 8,524

In 2006: 8,758

In 2007: 9, 105

The Watchtower January 15, 2000 Sixth, the number of genuine anointed disciples of Christ is dwindling, though some will evidently still be on earth when the great tribulation begins. Most of the remnant are quite elderly, and over the years the number of those who are truly anointed has been getting smaller.

The opposite is happening.

P6 The willing support given to anointed Christians by their companions of the other sheep was foretold by the prophet Isaiah. He wrote: "This is what Jehovah has said: 'The unpaid laborers of Egypt and the merchants of Ethiopia and the Sabeans, tall men, will themselves come over even to you, and yours they will become. Behind you they will walk.'" (Isa. 45:14) In a symbolic way, Christians with an earthly hope today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership. As "unpaid laborers," the other sheep willingly and wholeheartedly expend their strength and their resources in support of the worldwide preaching work that Christ assigned to his anointed followers on earth.-Acts 1:8; Rev. 12:17.

One has to look at their teachings and know it is not the Gospel of Jesus Christ they teach. It is the gospel of the Governing Body.

The Watchtower April 1, 1986, page 31 Approved association with Jehovah’s Witnesses requires accepting the entire range of the true teachings of the Bible, including those Scriptural beliefs that are unique to Jehovah’s Witnesses.

If the Governing Body teaches it, every JW must accept it.

P7 As they lend their support to their anointed brothers, members of the great crowd are being trained as the foundation of the new human society that will exist after Armageddon. That foundation must be solid and stable, and its members must be willing and able to carry out the direction of the Master. Each Christian is being given the opportunity to demonstrate that he can be used by the King, Christ Jesus. By exercising faith and displaying loyalty now, he shows that he will respond well when the King gives him directions in the new world.

Only their Master is not Jesus Christ. As previously stated, they must submit to the Men from Brooklyn. If they say the 1914 Generation will never die, they will never die; if they teach blood transfusions are prohibited, prohibited they are; if they teach the 1914 Generation may die after all, then...

P8 The other sheep companions of the congregation of anointed Christians prove their faith in various ways. First, they support the anointed in proclaiming the good news of God's Kingdom. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) Second, they willingly submit themselves to the direction provided by the Governing Body.-Heb. 13:17; read Zechariah 8:23

At last they come out of the shadows.

P9 Third, members of the great crowd support their anointed brothers by living in harmony with Jehovah's righteous principles. They strive to cultivate "love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control." (Gal. 5:22, 23) Today, displaying such qualities, rather than producing "the works of the flesh," may not be popular. Still, members of the great crowd are determined to avoid "fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct, idolatry, practice of spiritism, enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, contentions, divisions, sects, envies, drunken bouts, revelries, and things like these."-Gal. 5:19-21.

I fail to see how this supports their anointed brothers. Does that mean the Amish and Quakers are also supporting them?

P11 Since we are imperfect, it can be a challenge to produce spiritual fruitage, avoid the works of the flesh, and resist the pressure exerted by Satan's world. Nevertheless, we are determined not to allow discouragement resulting from personal weaknesses, temporary failures, or physical limitations to affect the strength of our faith or diminish our love for Jehovah. We know that Jehovah will do as he has promised—preserve the great crowd alive through the great tribulation.

Unless the Governing Body determines this is not so.

P12 All the same, we are constantly on guard because we know that our real enemy is the Devil, and he does not give up easily. (Read 1 Peter 5:8.) He has tried to use apostates and others to convince us that the teachings we follow are false. But that tactic has usually failed. Similarly, although persecution has sometimes slowed down the preaching work, often it has served only to strengthen the faith of those persecuted. Hence, Satan increasingly uses a method that he likely feels will offer a greater chance of weakening our faith. He exploits feelings of discouragement. First-century Christians were warned about this danger when they were told: "Consider closely the one [Christ] who has endured such contrary talk by sinners against their own interests." Why? "That you may not get tired and give out in your souls."-Heb. 12:3.

JW's fear former JW's more than the Living God.

P12 Have you ever felt like giving up? Do you at times feel that you are a failure? If so, do not allow Satan to use those feelings to hinder you from serving Jehovah. In-depth Bible study, fervent prayer, and regular meeting attendance and association with those of like faith will strengthen you and keep you from `giving out in your soul.' Jehovah has promised to help those serving him to regain power, and his promise is sure. (Read Isaiah 40:30, 31.) Keep your eye on Kingdom service. Avoid time-consuming distractions, and focus on helping others. Then you will be strengthened to endure despite discouragement.-Gal. 6:1, 2.

Where is knowing Jesus Christ more and more? Where is the turning away from sin (repentance)?

P13 After Armageddon, multitudes of unrighteous resurrected ones will need instruction in Jehovah's ways. (Acts 24:15) They will need to learn about Jesus' ransom sacrifice; more than that, they must be taught to exercise faith in that sacrifice in order to receive its benefits. They will need to reject previously held false religious ideas and to abandon their former way of life. They must learn to put on the new personality that identifies true Christians. (Eph. 4:22-24; Col. 3:9, 10) Those of the other sheep who survive to that time will have much work to do. What a joy it will be to perform such service to Jehovah, free of the pressures and distractions of the present wicked world!

An egotistical Paradise!

P14 Faithful servants of Jehovah who died prior to Jesus' earthly ministry will also have much to learn at that time. They will learn the identity of the promised Messiah, whom they longed for but never got to see. In their former lives, they already indicated their willingness to be instructed by Jehovah. Imagine what a joy and privilege it will be to help them-for example, to explain to Daniel the fulfillment of the prophecies he wrote down but did not understand!-Dan. 12:8, 9.

A "willingness to be instructed by Jehovah", how shallow. When we knocked on doors and people answered (especially if they accepted the literature) we tended to think of them as sheeplike. If they were rude they were goatlike.

The Watchtower has a dismal record of explaining Daniel's prophecies.

P15 Of course, while the resurrected ones will have much to learn from us, we will have many questions to ask them. They can fill us in on events that are mentioned in the Bible but not described in detail. Think how thrilling it will be to learn personal details about Jesus from his cousin John the Baptist! The things we learn from such faithful witnesses will doubtless give us an even greater appreciation of God's Word than we have at present. Faithful servants of Jehovah who have died—including those of the great crowd who die during the time of the end—will come forth to "a better resurrection." They began their service to Jehovah in a world dominated by Satan. What a joy it will be for them to continue their service under the much more favorable circumstances of the new world!-Heb. 11:35; 1 John 5:19.

Is this an understatement?

P16 At some point during Judgment Day, scrolls will be opened. Along with the Bible, they will form the basis for judging all alive as to their worthiness to gain everlasting life. (Read Revelation 20:12, 13.) By the end of Judgment Day, each individual will have had ample opportunity to show where he stands on the issue of universal sovereignty. Will he uphold the Kingdom arrangement and allow the Lamb to guide him to "fountains of waters of life"? Or will he resist, refusing to subject himself to God's Kingdom? (Rev. 7:17; Isa. 65:20) By then, all on earth will have had an opportunity to make a personal decision, unhampered by inherited sin or a wicked environment. No one will be able to question the rightfulness of Jehovah's final judgment. Only the wicked will be everlastingly destroyed.-Rev. 20:14, 15.

They're looking forward to new rules and regulations. They also contine to diminish the sufficiency of God's Word.

P17 Anointed Christians today, having been counted worthy to receive a Kingdom, eagerly look forward to ruling during Judgment Day. What a grand privilege will be theirs! The very prospect motivates them to follow the Counsel that Peter gave to their firstcentury brothers: "Do your utmost to make the calling and choosing of you sure for yourselves; for if you keep on doing these things you will by no means ever fail. In fact, thus there will be richly supplied to you the entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."-2 Pet. 1: 10,11.

What in 2 Peter suggests anointed christians are so powerhungry to rule with Christ during Judgment Day (which they teach is 1,000 years)?

2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Instead, it is about...living holy in this life!

P18 The other sheep rejoice with their anointed brothers. They are determined to support them. As friends of God today, they are motivated to do their utmost in God's service. During Judgment Day, they will be thrilled to support wholeheartedly God's arrangements as Jesus guides them to fountains of waters of life. Then—at last—they will be counted worthy to be Jehovah's earthly servants for all eternity!-Rom. 8:20, 21; Rev. 21:1-7.

Only friends of God, not His children! They will have to wait until the 1,000 years are over to be counted worthy. What about 2 Peter 1:9 "But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins."?

Attempts to Justify Adultery

2008-03-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

An article that tries to explain what disgraced Governor Spitzer did was just a throwback to prehistoric times.

Scientists says it's more likely to be the latter. They attribute this kind of behavior to natural promiscuity combined with opportunity - along with a risk-taking personality common to men like Bill Clinton and John F Kennedy. It's what makes them seek office and what makes us want to vote for them.

No, not at all. They call themselves scientists?

We don't know this for sure, because prehistoric sexual behavior doesn't fossilize, but there's much we can infer from studying how people in foraging cultures live today, he said. Such cultures tend to be relatively egalitarian and promiscuous, at least by American standards, he said. But prostitution is rare, as he believes it was for most of our past.

"There would be no need for prostitutes because there would be very few sexually frustrated men," he said.

So in other words, if Spitzer had been born in 40,000 B.C., he would never have gotten into this fix.

What does that have to do with being promiscuous? Trust and fidelity are meaningless?

God Bless You

2008-03-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

A young JW couple from out of state was visiting. They had not been married for even a year, but already they had traveling stories to share. The following one stood out.

"We stopped at one of those 'All You Can Eat' places," the husband excitedly establishes the setting. "It was a Sunday morning and we decided to have breakfast before going to an afternoon meeting."

"As we were serving ourselves we noticed a large group of people had already arrived and were enjoying their meals," the wife added, "They were all well dressed and politely conversating."

"So we took our seats, gave thanks, and started eating. After a while we knew we would have to say hello to our brothers. Maybe they were just getting done with field service or coming back from their meeting. My wife and I go back to the buffet line and see some them have returned for additional helpings."

"We're all smiling at each other at this point," the sister admits, "then, an older gentleman from their group says to us, 'God bless you.'"

"Yep! Once we heard that we knew they weren't Witnesses."

"Uh-huh!" the sister laughs.

I chuckled at this and asked if they found out who they were.

"From a church I suppose," replied the husband, "but you know, even in Jesus' times, demons got all excited whenever christians spoke. It seems something riles them up and causes erratic activity. I have a feeling that in that restaurant demons quickly discovered who the true servants of Jehovah were."

What an odd way to react to someone wishing them God's blessings.

"'Rightly Disposed' Ones Are Learning"

2008-03-07T13:19:00.000-08:00

This study for the Jan 15, 2008 Watchtower edition is actually for last week.

Paragraph 1 The Bible book of Acts preserves the exciting account of how the early Christians responded to Jesus' prophecy that the good news of the Kingdom would be preached throughout the inhabited earth. (Matt. 24:14) Zealous preachers blazed the trail, so to speak, for all those who would follow them. As a result of the fervent witnessing of Jesus' disciples in Jerusalem, thousands of people, including "a great crowd of priests," flocked to the first-century congregation.-Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:7.

The book of Acts also has the disciples praying to Jesus.

Acts 1:23 So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs." 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Who was the Lord, who knows everyone's heart, they prayed to? Verses directly before state.

Acts 1:21 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."

Believers only pray to the Almighty, of course!

Paragraph 2 Early missionaries helped many more to embrace Christianity. Philip, for one, went to Samaria, where crowds paid attention to his words. (Acts 8:5-8) Paul traveled widely with various companions, preaching the Christian message in Cyprus, parts of Asia Minor, Macedonia, Greece, and Italy. In cities where he preached, multitudes of both Jews and Greeks became believers. (Acts 14:1; 16:5;17:4) Titus carried on a ministry in Crete. (Titus 1:5) Peter was busy in Babylon, and by the time he wrote his first letter, about 62-64 C.E., the activity of the Christians was well-known in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. (1 Pet. 1:1; 5:13) What exciting times those were! So zealous were those first-century Christian preachers that their enemies claimed that they had "overturned the inhabited earth." -Acts 17:6; 28:22.

Do JW's believe Christianity is a personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST?

Paragraph 3 In modern times too, the Christian congregation has been blessed with remarkable growth. Are you not encouraged when you read the annual report of Jehovah's Witnesses and see the results that are being obtained worldwide? Does it not warm your heart to know that Kingdom proclaimers conducted more than six million Bible studies during the 2007 service year? Moreover, the attendance at the Memorial of Jesus Christ's death last year indicates that some ten million people who are not Witnesses of Jehovah were sufficiently interested in the good news to attend this important commemoration. This indicates that there is still much work to do.

The Society has the following two part question: What results are being obtained today by Kingdom proclaimers in their preaching activities, and how does that make you feel?

Does growth indicate the validity of their message? Is Islam or Mormonism also The Truth? If the number of interested attendees plummeted, would their work be much closer to completion?

Paragraph 4 Today, as in the first century, "all those who [are] rightly disposed for everlasting life" are responding to the message of truth. (Acts 13:48) Jehovah is drawing such people into his organization. (Read Haggai 2:7.) What attitude toward the Christian ministry do we need to maintain in order to cooperate fully with this ingathering work?

Let's read Haggai and read about an organization.

Haggai 2:7 I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,' says the LORD Almighty.

So is God looking for the best and most righteous people to come serve Him?

Paragraph 5 The first-century Christians understood that "God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." (Acts 10:34, 35) Whether a person has a good relationship with Jehovah or not depends on his exercising faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. (John 3: 16, 36) And it is Jehovah's will that "all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth."-1 Tim. 2:3, 4.

Finally they get to Jesus' sacrifice.

Saved?

Saved from what? Do JW's realize the impending peril and accountability of sin? If they mean saved from going to sleep forever, what about those that want to do just that?

Paragraph 6 It would be wrong for proclaimers of the good news to prejudge people on the basis of their race, social status, appearance, religious background, or any other characteristic. Consider for a moment: Are you not grateful that the person who first spoke to you about Scriptural truths was free of prejudices toward you? So why hold back from offering a potentially lifesaving message to anyone who might listen to it?-Read Matthew 7:12.

Do they know they are dead in their sins?

John 8:24 I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins."
John 11:25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

It would also be wrong to prejudge people on the basis of them knowing the history of the Watchtower.

Paragraph 7 Jehovah has appointed Jesus as judge; hence, we do not have the right to judge anybody. That is fitting, since—unlike Jesus—we can judge only by the "mere appearance to [our] eyes" or "the thing heard by [our] ears," whereas Jesus can read the intimate thoughts and reasonings of the heart.-Isa. 11:1-5; 2 Tim. 4:1.

Which ties it back again to Acts 1.

Acts 1:23 So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs." 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
Psalms 26:2 Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind
Revelations 2:23 Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds

Jesus, you are LORD and Judge, thank you!

Paragraph 8 People from virtually every background have become servants of Jehovah. One outstanding example is that of Saul of Tarsus, who came to be known as the apostle Paul. Saul, a Pharisee, was a bitter opposer of Christians. His sincere conviction that they were wrong led him to persecute the Christian congregation. (Gal. 1:13) From a human standpoint, he must have seemed to be one of the least likely people to become a Christian. Yet, Jesus saw something good in Saul's heart and chose him to fulfill a special commission. As a result, Saul became one of the most active and zealous members of the first-century Christian congregation.

This is one of the biggest misunderstanding a Jehovah's Witness has. They believe God looks deep in our hearts and if finding something good, however miniscule, then it is motivation enough for Him to save us.

WRONG!

If you have ever lied, then God sees you as a LIAR!

Revelation 21:8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."

If you have ever hated someone, God sees you as a MURDERER!

Matthew 5:21 "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

Yes, our hearts are truly wicked!

1 Corinthians 6:9 Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders 10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

God sees you as he saw Saul of Tarsus...a sinner!

Paragraph 9 What does the experience of the apostle Paul teach us? In our territory, perhaps there are groups of people who seem hostile to the message we bear. Though it may appear doubtful that any of them will ever become true Christians, we should not stop trying to reason with them. Sometimes even the most unlikely individuals prove to be receptive. Our commission is to keep on preaching to all "without letup."-Read Acts 5:42.

JW's can become Christians! Praise the Lord!

Paragraph 10 Appearances can be deceptive. Ignacio,* for example, began studying the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses while he was in prison in a South American country. He was feared because of his violent nature. Consequently, inmates who made and sold items to fellow prisoners used Ignacio to collect debts from those who were slow to pay. However, as Ignacio made spiritual progress and applied what he was learning, this once violent bully became a kind person. No one uses him to collect debts anymore, yet Ignacio is content that Bible truths and God's spirit have transformed his personality. He is also grateful for the open-mindedness of the Kingdom publishers who made the effort to study with him.

They continue to diminish the Holy Spirit.

Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

With all this talk about their personality, why do they deny it to the Holy Spirit?

Paragraph 11 One of the reasons why we keep returning to visit people with whom we have already spoken about the good news is that their circumstances and attitudes can and do change. Since our last visit, some may have been affected by serious illness, loss of a job, or the death of a loved one. (Read Ecclesiastes 9:11.) World events may motivate people to think seriously about their future. Such developments can cause a person who was previously apathetic—or even opposed—to respond favorably. Hence, we should not hold back from sharing the good news with others on every suitable occasion.

Sounds like they preach the wealth and health gospel.

Paragraph 12 Classifying and judging other people appears to be a human tendency. Yet, Jehovah sees people as individuals. He sees the potential of each one. (Read 1 Samuel 16:7.) In our ministry, we should strive to do the same. Many experiences show the good that results from having a positive view of all to whom we preach.

Preach what? Repentance and turning to the Lord?

Paragraph 13 Sandra, a pioneer sister, was engaged in the house-to-house ministry on an island in the Caribbean when she met Ruth, who was deeply involved in carnival celebrations. Ruth had twice been crowned national carnival queen. She showed an unusual interest in what Sandra was saying, so a Bible study was arranged. Sandra recalls: "As I walked into her living room, I was greeted by a large photo of Ruth in full carnival regalia, as well as trophies that she had won. I wrongly assumed that someone who was so popular and so involved in carnival festivities could not have an interest in the truth. So I stopped calling on her."
Paragraph 14 Some time later, Ruth appeared at the Kingdom Hall, and when the meeting was over, she asked Sandra, "Why have you stopped coming to study with me?" Sandra apologized and arranged to resume the study. Ruth made rapid progress, took down her carnival pictures, began engaging in all congregation activities, and dedicated her life to Jehovah. Of course, Sandra came to recognize that her initial reaction was wrong.

Is there power in carnival pictures?

Paragraph 15 Positive results have also come to many who have witnessed to unbelieving family members, even when it seemed unlikely that these would respond favorably. Take, for example, the case of Joyce, a Christian sister in the United States. Her brother-in-law had been in and out of jail ever since he was a teenager. "People said that his life amounted to nothing," relates Joyce, "because he dealt in drugs, was a thief, and did a host of other bad things. Even so, against all odds, I kept on sharing Bible truths with him for 37 years." Her patient efforts to help her relative were richly rewarded when he finally began to study the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses and made drastic changes in his life. Recently, at the age of 50, Joyce's brother-in-law was baptized at a district convention in California, U.S.A. Joyce says: "I cried for joy. I am so happy that I never gave up on him!"

So it was her doing? Where's the Lord?

Paragraph 16 You might hesitate to speak to certain relatives about Bible truths because of their strong religious convictions. Yet, no such reluctance prevented Joyce from speaking to her brother-in-law. After all, how can one know what is in another person's heart? That person may be searching in all sincerity for religious truth. Hence, do not hold back from giving him or her the opportunity to find it.-Read Proverbs 3:27.

They seem to be hesitant to speak to former JW's who have found truth, in effect, Jesus.

Paragraph 17 Reports from countries around the world show that many honest-hearted individuals are responding well to the Bible study aid What Does the Bible Really Teach? Penni, a pioneer sister in the United States, started several studies using this publication. Two of them were with older people who were devout members of their churches. Penni was not sure how they would react to Scriptural truths presented in the Bible Teach book. Nevertheless, she writes, "Because of the clear, logical, and concise way in which the information is presented, they readily accepted what they were learning as the truth, without argument or emotional turmoil."

So their book is better than the Bible?

Paragraph 18 Pat, a publisher in Britain, began to study the Bible with a woman who was a refugee from an Asian country. The woman was forced to flee her country after her husband and sons had been taken away by rebel soldiers, never to be seen again. Her life had been threatened, her home had been burned down, and she had been gang-raped. All of this made her feel that she had nothing to live for, and she considered suicide on a number of occasions. The Bible study, however, gave her hope. "The simplicity of the explanations and illustrations in the Bible Teach book had a dramatic effect on her," writes Pat. The student made rapid progress, qualified to become an unbaptized publisher, and expressed her desire to be baptized at the next assembly. What a joy it is to help sincere people understand and appreciate the hope offered by the Scriptures!

In their book? Are the words of the Society on the same level as God?

Paragraph 19 With each passing day, the urgency of our commission to preach and make disciples becomes more pressing. Thousands of rightly disposed ones respond to our preaching every year. Yet, "the great day of Jehovah is near," meaning that those who remain in spiritual darkness are "staggering to the slaughter."-Zeph. 1:14; Prov. 24:11.

They have no idea.

Paragraph 20 We can still help such people. But for us to do so, it is vital that we imitate the first-century Christians, who "continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ, Jesus." (Acts 5:42) Follow their example by persevering despite adversity, by paying attention to your "art of teaching," and by preaching to all without partiality! "Let us not give up in doing what is fine," for if we persevere, we shall reap the bounteous blessings of divine approval.-2 Tim. 4:2; read Galatians 6:9.

Finally, they wait until the last paragraph to mention the good news is Jesus Christ. Do they explain why He is? What is the bad news?

It Won't Be Long

2008-03-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

It won't be long until I get back to blogging about my precious Christ! It has been an unintended break.

Jesus as the I AM

2008-02-24T20:10:00.000-08:00

Exodus 3:13 Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" 14 God said to Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' " 15 God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob—has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation.
John 8:58 "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!"59 At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.
John 5:16 So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jews persecuted him. 17 Jesus said to them, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working." 18 For this reason the Jews tried all the harder to kill him; not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.

Please note in John 5:16, it is John's own understanding what it takes to make the claim oneself equal with God.

From the Watchtower January 15, 2008 "Members Only" Edition

Paragraph 14 A fundamental benefit that students derive from studying the Bible and applying its principles is that they come to know and appreciate Jehovah as a person. (Isa. 42:8) Not only is he a loving Father and the Creator and Owner of the universe but he also reveals his personality and abilities to those who love and serve him. (Read Exodus 34:6, 7.) When Moses was about to lead the nation of Israel out of Egyptian captivity, Jehovah identified himself using the expression: "I shall prove to be what I shall prove to be." (Ex. 3:13-15) This implied that Jehovah would become whatever was necessary for him to become in order to carry out his purposes in regard to his chosen people. The Israelites thus came to know Jehovah in the roles of Savior, Warrior, Provider, and Fulfiller of promises and in other capacities.-Ex. 15:2, 3; 16:2-5; Josh. 23:14.

Jesus as Savior!

John 4:42 They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."

Jesus as Warrior!

Revelation 19:11 I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Jesus as Provider!

John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

Jesus as Fulfiller of Promises!

John 14:13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

What a God we have.

Paragraph 15 Our students may not experience intervention by Jehovah in their lives as dramatically as Moses did. Nevertheless, as our students grow in faith and in appreciation for what they learn and as they begin to apply it, they will doubtless see the need to lean on Jehovah for courage, wisdom, and guidance. As they do so, they too will come to know Jehovah in the roles of a wise and trusted Counselor, Protector, and generous Provider of all their needs.-Ps. 55:22; 63:7; Prov. 3:5, 6.

Their students? No wonder, for they are not the Lord's.

Jesus as Counselor!

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Jesus as Protector!

John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.

Amen, Lord.

"Pay Attention To Your 'Art of Teaching'"

2008-02-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

Study of the Watchtower January 15, 2008 "Member's Only" Edition.

Paragraph 1 Despite the wonderful works of healing that Jesus performed during his earthly ministry, he was primarily known, not as a healer or a miracle worker, but as a teacher. (Mark 12:19; 13:1) Declaring the good news of God's Kingdom was Jesus' priority, and so it is for his followers today. Christians have a commission to continue the work of disciple-making by teaching people to observe all the things that Jesus commanded.-Matt. 28:19, 20.

Was the gospel of Jesus centered around Earth being free of environmental pollution? Did it center around 1914, 1925, or 1935? The latter two dates (among many) having been were found not to be true at all.

Matthew 24:26 "So if anyone tells you, 'There he is, out in the desert,' do not go out; or, 'Here he is, in the inner rooms,' do not believe it. 27 For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 28 Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather.
Luke 21:8 He replied: "Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and, 'The time is near.' Do not follow them. 9 When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away."

JW's actually have been proclaiming Jesus has already returned (invisibly) and that the time is near.

Paragraph 2 In order to fulfill our commission to make disciples, we constantly seek to improve our ability to teach. The apostle Paul underlined the importance of this skill when writing to his preaching companion Timothy. He said: "Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching. Stay by these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you." (1 Tim. 4:16) The kind of teaching that Paul had in mind is not the mere imparting of knowledge. Effective Christian ministers reach the hearts of people and motivate them to make changes in their lives. That is an art. So how can we develop the "art of teaching" when presenting to others the good news of God's Kingdom?-2 Tim. 4:2.

What will happen to those who teach a false gospel?

Galatians 1:6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! 9 As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned!

The art of teaching a perverted gospel leads to eternal condemnation.

Paragraph 3 One dictionary defines "art" as a "skill that is attained by study, practice, or observation." We need to pay attention to all three of these elements to become effective teachers of the good news. We can gain a correct understanding of our subject only by studying it prayerfully. (Read Psalm 119:27, 34.) Observing effective ministers as they teach helps us to learn their methods and to imitate them. And striving on a regular basis to practice what we learn will help us to refine our abilities.-Luke 6:40; 1 Tim. 4:13-15.

Did they prayerfully prepare for their false prophecies?

Millions Now Living Will Never Die, page 89. 1918 "Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews 11, to the condition of human perfection."

The Watchtower January 1, 1989 "The apostle Paul was spearheading the Christian missionary activity. He was also laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our 20th century." (The bound volumes and CD-ROM version changes it to "in our day".)

That is their skill.

Paragraph 4 Jehovah is our Grand Instructor. Through the visible part of his organization, he provides his servants on earth with guidance as to how they should fulfill their preaching commission. (Isa. 30:20, 21) In this regard, every congregation holds a weekly Theocratic Ministry School, which is designed to help all those enrolled become effective proclaimers of God's Kingdom. The main textbook of this school is the Bible. Jehovah's inspired Word tells us what to teach. Moreover, it indicates what teaching methods are effective and appropriate. The Theocratic Ministry School regularly reminds us that we will become more skilled as teachers if we base our teaching on God's Word, use questions effectively, teach with simplicity, and show a sincere interest in others. Let us examine each of these points separately. Then we will discuss how to reach a student's heart.

Like their mistakes were derived from the Bible.

Paragraph 5 Jesus, the greatest of all human teachers, based his teachings on the Scriptures. (Matt. 21:13; John 6:45; 8:17) He spoke, not in his own name, but in the name of the One who sent him. (John 7:16-18) That is the example we follow. So, what we say either in the doorto-door ministry or at home Bible studies should center on the authority of God's Word. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17) No amount of clever reasoning on our part can possibly equal the effectiveness and power of the inspired Scriptures. The Bible has authority. Whatever point we are striving to help a student grasp, the best method we can use is to have him or her read what the Scriptures say about it.-Read Hebrews 4:12.

Why peddle Watchtower and Awake magazines then? Why is it the last word is what the Society says?

Paragraph 6 That is not to say, of course, that a Christian teacher need not prepare for a Bible study. On the contrary, careful forethought should be given to deciding which of the cited scriptures the teacher or the student will read from the Bible during the study. Generally speaking, it is good to read those scriptures that provide the basis for our beliefs. It is also necessary to help the student get the sense of each text he reads.-1 Cor. 14:8, 9.

That would be the reason the Watchtower only wants certain scriptures to be read.

Paragraph 7 The skillful use of questions stimulates thinking and helps the teacher to reach the student's heart. So instead of explaining scriptures to your student, ask him to explain them to you. Sometimes an additional question or even a series of questions might be needed to help your student arrive at the right understanding. When you involve the student in the learning process in this way, you are, in effect, helping him not only to grasp the reasons behind any given conclusion but also to make that conclusion his own conviction.-Matt. 7:24-26; Luke 10: 36, 37.

Just do not question the Governing Body's authority.

Paragraph 8 The study method used in our publications is that of questions and answers. No doubt, the majority of people with whom you study the Bible will quickly be able to answer the printed questions, using the information in the corresponding paragraphs. Still, the discerning teacher will not be satisfied simply with the right answers. For example, a student may be able to explain orrectly what the Bible says about fornication. (1 Cor. 6:18) Tactful viewpoint questions, however, can indicate what the student really thinks about what he is learning. The teacher might thus ask: "Why does the Bible condemn sexual relations outside of marriage? What do you think about this God-given restriction? Do you think that there is any benefit from living according to God's moral standards?"The response to such questions can reveal what is in the student's heart.-Read Matthew 16:13-17.

"Why do you think the Bible condemns those who speak falsities in God's name?"

Paragraph 9 Most truths contained in God's Word are in themselves relatively simple. It may be, though, that people with whom we study the Bible have been confused by the doctrines of false religion. Our role as teachers is to make the Bible easy to understand. Effective teachers convey information simply, clearly, and accurately. If we follow this guideline, we will not make the truth more complicated than it needs to be. Avoid unnecessary details. There is no need to comment on every aspect of a scripture that we read. Simply focus on what is essential to clarifying the point under consideration. The student will come to appreciate deeper Scriptural truths as he progresses in his understanding.-Heb. 5:13,14.

What a complete lack of respect to God's Word.

Paragraph 10 How much material should be covered in one study session? For this, discernment is needed. The abilities and circumstances of both student and teacher will vary, but we should always bear in mind that our objective as teachers is to help our student build solid faith. So we allow him sufficient time to read, grasp, and accept the truths presented in God's Word. We do not consider more material than he can grasp. At the same time, we keep the study moving. Once our student has grasped a point, we move on to the next.-Col. 2:6, 7.

Of course they do not study the bible, but their literature.

Paragraph 11 The apostle Paul kept the message of the good news simple when speaking to new ones. Even though he was very well educated, he avoided using high-sounding language. (Read 1 Corinthians 2:1, 2.) The simplicity of Scriptural truth attracts and satisfies sincere people. No one needs to be an intellectual to understand it.-Matt. 11:25; Acts 4: 13; 1 Cor. 1:26, 27.

Their objective is to reach out to those they deem sincere, the deserving ones, those rightly disposed.

Luke 5:31 And Jesus answered them, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Back to the study.

Paragraph 12 To be effective, our teaching needs to touch a student's heart. The student has to understand how the information applies to him personally, how it benefits him, and how his life would improve if he followed Scriptural direction.-Isa. 48:17,18.
Paragraph 13 For example, we may be considering Hebrews 10:24, 25, which encourages Christians to gather with fellow believers for Scriptural encouragement and loving association. If the student is not yet attending congregation meetings, we might briefly describe how they are conducted and what will be discussed. We might mention that congregation meetings are part of our worship and show that they benefit us personally. We then might invite the student to attend. His motivation for responding to Scriptural commands should be his desire to obey Jehovah, not to please the person who is studying with him.-Gal. 6:4, 5.

If the student wants to attend a Christ centered church, Jesus words -of where two or three are gathered in His name- is out the window.

Paragraph 14 A fundamental benefit that students derive from studying the Bible and applying its principles is that they come to know and appreciate Jehovah as a person. (Isa. 42:8) Not only is he a loving Father and the Creator and Owner of the universe but he also reveals his personality and abilities to those who love and serve him. (Read Exodus 34:6, 7.) When Moses was about to lead the nation of Israel out of Egyptian captivity, Jehovah identified himself using the expression: "I shall prove to be what I shall prove to be." (Ex. 3:13-15) This implied that Jehovah would become whatever was necessary for him to become in order to carry out his purposes in regard to his chosen people. The Israelites thus came to know Jehovah in the roles of Savior, Warrior, Provider, and Fulfiller of promises and in other capacities.-Ex. 15:2, 3; 16:2-5; Josh. 23:14.

Jesus as Savior!

John 4:42 They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."

Jesus as Warrior!

Revelation 19:11 I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Jesus as Provider!

John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to mewill never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

Jesus as Fulfiller of Promises!

John 14:13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

What a God we have.

Paragraph 15 Our students may not experience intervention by Jehovah in their lives as dramatically as Moses did. Nevertheless, as our students grow in faith and in appreciation for what they learn and as they begin to apply it, they will doubtless see the need to lean on Jehovah for courage, wisdom, and guidance. As they do so, they too will come to know Jehovah in the roles of a wise and trusted Counselor, Protector, and generous Provider of all their needs.-Ps. 55:22; 63:7; Prov. 3:5, 6.

Their students? No wonder, for they are not the Lord's.

Jesus as Counselor!

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Jesus as Protector!

John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.

Amen, Lord.

Paragraph 16 If you feel that you are not as skilled at teaching as you would like to be, take heart. Jehovah and Jesus are supervising the educational program that is being carried out worldwide today. (Acts 1:7, 8; Rev. 14:6) They can bless our efforts so that our words have the desired effect on a righthearted person. (John 6: 44) A teacher's sincere love for his student can more than make up for any lack of natural ability. The apostle Paul showed that he understood the importance of loving those who are being taught.-Read 1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8.

Are they saying Jehovah and Jesus were the brains behind their failed predictions and speculations?

Paragraph 17 Similarly, we can show a sincere interest in each Bible student by taking time to get to know him. As we discuss Scriptural principles with him, it is likely that we will become acquainted with his circumstances. We may observe that he is already living his life in harmony with some of the points that he has learned from the Bible. In other areas, he may still need to make adjustments. By helping the student to see how the information presented during Bible study sessions applies to him personally, we can lovingly assist him to become a genuine disciple of Christ.

Paragraph 18 Most important of all, we can pray with our student and for our student. It should be clear to him that our objective is to help him come to know his Creator more intimately, draw closer to Him, and benefit from His guidance. (Read Psalm 25:4, 5.) When we pray for Jehovah's blessing on a student's efforts to apply what he is learning, the student will see the importance of becoming a 'doer of the word.' (Jas. 1:22) And as the student listens to our sincere prayers, he too will learn how to pray. What a joy it is to help Bible students develop their own relationship with Jehovah!

Isn't their objective to have as many publishers filling out service reports month to month?

Knowing the Father and Son leads to eternal life. If Jesus does not know you personally, He will send you away as an unforgiven criminal.

Paragraph 19 It is encouraging to know that more than six and a half million Witnesses worldwide are busy developing the "art of teaching," with the aim of helping honesthearted individuals to observe all the things that Jesus commanded. What results are being obtained by our preaching activity? The answer to this question will be considered in the following article.

Lord, only you can save them.

Crying For The Camera

2008-02-16T22:43:00.000-08:00

Bill Clinton, at Ron Brown's funeral, laughing it up until he sees a camera and acts sad by shedding tears.

Only to resume laughter.

Shameless.

"Keep Watching The Ministry Which You Accepted In the Lord"

2008-02-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

This is the first study edition for members only. After all, isn't this a service to the Watchtower by having as many people as possible study their literature?

Paragraph 1 We have a serious responsibility toward the people who live around us. The decisions they make now will mean life or death during "the great tribulation." (Rev. 7: 14) The inspired writer of the book of Proverbs said: "Deliver those who are being taken away to death; and those staggering to the slaughter, 0 may you hold them back." Striking words indeed! Failure to assume the responsibility of warning people of the choice that lies before them could result in our incurring bloodguilt. In fact, the same passage continues: "In case you should say: `Look! We did not know of this,' will not he himself that is making an estimate of hearts discern it, and he himself that is observing your soul know and certainly pay back to earthling man according to his activity?" Clearly, Jehovah's servants cannot say that they `do not know of' the danger that people are facing. -Prov. 24:11,12

A responsibility serious enough to not be published for everyone. Also, they must hate context. What directly follows the cited proverb?

Proverb 24:13 Eat honey, my son, for it is good; honey from the comb is sweet to your taste

Is a high intake of fructose and glucose now in?

Paragraph 2 Jehovah values life. He urges his servants to make all possible efforts to help save as many lives as they can. Each minister of God must make known the lifesaving message found in God's Word. Our task is similar to that of a watchman who sounds a warning when he sees an impending threat. We do not want the blood of those in danger of perishing to be upon our heads. (Ezek. 33:1-7) How vital, therefore, that we persevere in our efforts to "preach the word"!-Read 2 Timothy 4:1, 2, 5.

If a JW needs a blood transfusion, they must negate the stated principle. It is sure to go the way of the ban against vaccines and organ transplants.

Paragraph 3 This article will consider how you can overcome obstacles to your lifesaving ministry and how you may be able to help a greater number of people. The article that follows will examine how you can cultivate the art of teaching vital truths. The third study article will report on some of the encouraging results that are being obtained by Kingdom proclaimers worldwide. Before we consider these topics, however, it would be good to review just why our times are so critical.

Cultivate the art of teaching vital truths? Who's to say today's truth will not be tomorrow's "old light"?

Paragraph 4 World events indicate that we are living in "the conclusion of the system of things" and that the end is very near. Mankind is experiencing the events and conditions that Jesus and his disciples said would mark "the last days." "Pangs of distress," including wars, food shortages, earthquakes, and other calamities, plague humanity. Lawless, selfish, and ungodly attitudes abound. Even for people who endeavor to live by Bible standards, these are "critical times hard to deal with."-Matt. 24:3, 6-8,12; 2 Tim. 3:1-5.

Their claim of being God's sole channel of communication gets them into trouble with the Lord.

The Watchtower May 1, 1968 "The immediate future is certain to be filled with climatic events, for this old system is nearing its complete end. Within a few years at most the final parts of Bible prophecy relative to these last days will undergo fulfilment resulting in the liberation of surviving mankind into Christ's glorious 1000 year reign!"

Awake October 8, 1968 page 13 "The fact that fifty-four years of the period called the "last days" have already gone by is highly significant. It means that only a few years, at most, remain before the corrupt system of things dominating the earth is destroyed by God."

Back to the study.

Paragraph 5 The vast majority of mankind, however, are unaware of the real significance of world events. As a result, many are anxious about their own safety and that of their families. The loss of loved ones in death or other personal tragedies leave many distraught. Without accurate knowledge of why such things happen and where the solution lies, these people are without hope.-Eph. 2:12.

They exclude people from hope.

Ephesians 2:11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (that done in the body by the hands of men)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

The Watchtower wants ONLY a small group of people to be members of God's household, His body. THE REST are spiritual foreigners and aliens.

Who else tried to shut Heaven's doors?

Matthew 23:13 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.

Amen, Lord.

Paragraph 6 "Babylon the Great," the world empire of false religion, has brought little comfort to the masses. On the contrary, by means of "the wine of her fornication," she has made multitudes stagger in spiritual confusion. Moreover, by acting like a harlot, false religion has seduced and controlled "the kings of the earth," using lying doctrines and spiritistic practices to keep the masses in passive subservience to their political masters. False religion has thus gained power and influence, but at the same time, she has completely rejected religious truth.-Rev. 17:1, 2, 5; 18:23.

Have their forgotten their meddling with the United Nations? What of their rejected doctrines and beliefs?

Paragraph 7 Jesus taught that most of mankind are traveling along the broad road that leads to destruction. (Matt. 7:13, 14) Some individuals are on that broad road because they have made a deliberate choice to reject what the Bible teaches, but many others are there because they have been deceived, or kept in the dark, as to what Jehovah really requires of them. Perhaps some would change their lifestyle if they were given sound Scriptural reasons to do so. But those who remain in Babylon the Great and who continue to reject Bible standards will not be spared through "the great tribulation."-Rev. 7:14.

What happens when the Watchtower goes against Scripture?

Paragraph 8 Jesus said that his disciples would preach the good news of the Kingdom and make disciples. (Matt. 28:19, 20) True Christians, therefore, have always considered participation in the preaching work to be a matter of loyalty to God and a fundamental requirement of their faith. Hence, Jesus' early followers persevered even in the face of opposition. They relied upon Jehovah for strength, praying that he would enable them to continue "speaking [his] word with all boldness." In response, Jehovah filled them with holy spirit, and they boldly spoke the word of God.-Acts 4:18, 29, 31.
Paragraph 9 When opposition turned violent, did Jesus' followers waver in their determination to preach the good news? Not at all. Irritated by the apostles' preaching, Jewish religious leaders arrested the apostles, threatened them, and flogged them. Yet, the apostles "continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ, Jesus." They clearly saw that they had to "obey God as ruler rather than men."-Acts 5:28, 29,40-42.

I wonder why they do not baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded.

Paragraph 10 Servants of God today have not had to endure beatings or imprisonment because of their preaching activities. However, all true Christians face tests and trials of some kind. Your Bible-trained conscience might, for example, impel you to adopt an unpopular course of conduct or one that makes you stand out as different. Colleagues, schoolmates, or neighbors might think you are odd because you base your decisions on Bible principles. Nevertheless, their negative response should not deter you. The world lies in spiritual darkness, but Christians must "[shine] as illuminators." (Phil. 2:15) Perhaps some sincere observers will see and appreciate your fine works and give glory to Jehovah as a result.-Read Matthew 5:16.

What may be odd is to base decisions on "biblical principles" which really are anything but. That is more like spiritual darkness.

Paragraph 11 Courage is needed for us to keep on preaching the Kingdom message. Some people, even relatives, may ridicule you or in some other way attempt to discourage you. (Matt. 10:36) The apostle Paul was physically beaten more than once because he faithfully carried out his ministry. Notice how he reacted to such opposition: "After we had first suffered and been insolently treated," he wrote, "we mustered up boldness by means of our God to speak to you the good news of God with a great deal of struggling." (1 Thess. 2:2) Surely it was a challenge for Paul to keep on speaking the good news after he had been seized, stripped, beaten with rods, and thrown into prison. (Acts 16:19-24) What gave him the boldness to continue? His overriding desire to carry out his God-given preaching commission.-1 Cor. 9:16.

What is the good news?

Acts 5:42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ

Paul writes in Philippians 3 "everything is a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus".

Paragraph 13 Other difficulties that many have to contend with are advancing age and poor health, which may limit what they can reasonably do in the preaching work. If that is true of you, do not be discouraged. Jehovah is well aware of your limitations and appreciates what you can do. (Read 2 Corinthians 8:12.) Whatever kind of adversity you may be facing—opposition, apathy, or ill health-do all that your circumstances allow you to do in sharing the good news with others.-Prov. 3: 27; compare Mark 12:41-44.

Please do not be discouraged if you have devoted your entire life to an organization. God has given His Son to pay for your crimes and the punishment resulting from them. You must trust Jesus and rely solely on Him to save you.

Paragraph 14 The apostle Paul took his ministry very seriously, and he encouraged fellow believers to do the same. (Acts 20:20, 21; 1 Cor. 11:1) One individual whom Paul singled out for special encouragement was a first-century Christian named Archippus. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote: "Tell Archippus: `Keep watching the ministry which you accepted in the Lord, that you fulfill it."' (Col. 4:17) We do not know who Archippus was or what his circumstances were, but he had evidently accepted a ministry. If you are a dedicated Christian, you too have accepted a ministry. Are you continuing to watch the ministry in order to fulfill it?

Was Archippus preaching Jesus as Michael the Archangel?

Paragraph 15 Prior to our baptism, we dedicated our lives to Jehovah in heartfelt prayer. This meant that we were determined to do his will. So we do well to ask ourselves now, 'Is the doing of God's will really the most important thing in my life?' We may have various responsibilities that Jehovah expects us to care for—such as providing for our family. (1 Tim. 5:8) But how do we use the rest of our time and energy? What is our priority in life?-Read 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15.

Are they really asking to do God's will or theirs?

Paragraph 16 You a young dedicated Christian who has finished or is close to finishing your required schooling? Likely, you do not yet have weighty family responsibilities. So, what do you plan to do with your life? What decisions will best enable you to fulfill your promise to do Jehovah's will? Many have organized their affairs in order to pioneer, and they have reaped great joy and satisfaction as a result.-Ps. 110:3; Ecc1.12:1.

This what they taught young ones before.

Awake! 1969 May 22 p.15 "If you are a young person, you also need to face the fact that you will never grow old in this present system of things. Why not? Because all the evidence in fulfillment of Bible prophecy indicates that this corrupt system is due to end in a few years. Of the generation that observed the beginning of the 'last days' in 1914, Jesus foretold:'This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.' Therefore, as a young person, you will never fulfill any career that this system offers."

Now they are the ones facing advanced age and poor health. Not much different from those mentioned in Paragraph 13.

Paragraph 17 Perhaps you are a young adult. You have a full-time secular job but have few responsibilities except to care for yourself. Doubtless you enjoy participating in congregation activities to the extent that your schedule allows. Could you perhaps have even greater joy? Have you thought about expanding your share in the ministry? (Ps. 34:8; Prov. 10:22) In some territories, much work still needs to be done to reach everybody with the life-giving message of truth. Could you make adjustments in your life, perhaps to serve in an area where the need for Kingdom proclaimers is greater?-Read 1 Timothy 6:6-8.

There is an even greater joy in knowing the Almighty loves us. God is mindful of us!

Paragraph 18 Consider the example of Kevin and Elena, from the United States.* As was normal for young newlyweds in their area, they felt that they had to buy a house. Both worked full-time and could maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Yet, their work schedule and jobs around the home left little time for field service. They realized that they were dedicating almost all their time and energy to their possessions. However, when they observed the simple lifestyle of a happy pioneer couple, Kevin and Elena decided to change the focus of their lives. After seeking Jehovah's direction in prayer, they sold their house and moved into an apartment. Elena reduced the hours she worked secularly and became a pioneer. Encouraged by the experiences his wife was enjoying, Kevin quit his full-time job and began pioneering. Some time later, they moved to a South American country to serve where the need for Kingdom preachers is great. "We always had a happy marriage," says Kevin, "but when we worked toward spiritual goals, our happiness reached an even deeper level."-Read Matthew 6:19-22. [Footnote] * The names have been changed.

I wonder why their first names had to have been changed. Also, of what use is preaching a gospel, even zeaolously, if it is distorted (Galatians 1)?

Paragraph 19 The preaching of the good news is the most important work being done on earth today. (Rev. 14:6, 7) It contributes to the sanctification of Jehovah's name. (Matt. 6:9) The Bible's message improves the lives of the many thousands who embrace it each year, and this can lead to their salvation. Yet, "how ... will they hear without someone to preach?" asked the apostle Paul. (Rom. 10: 14, 15) How, indeed? Why not be determined to do all you possibly can to fulfill your ministry?

Paragraph 20 Another way that you can help people understand the importance of these critical times and the consequences of the decisions they make is by improving your teaching ability. How you can do this will be discussed in the following article.

That means we are greatly indebted to all the motivational speakers!

Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.

"No Weapon Formed Against You Will Succeed"

2008-02-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

At least they more or less focus on passage from Zechariah 12.

Paragraph 1 Decades ago, in a small mountainous country in southeastern Europe, there was a fearless band of Christians. An atheistic Communist government did its best to crush them. Yet, torture, labor camps, and media attacks could not stamp them out. Who were they? Jehovah's Witnesses in Albania. Though meeting together and preaching were extremely difficult, their persistence over decades has exalted and honored Christianity and brought praise to Jehovah's name. Last year at the dedication of their new branch facilities, a longtime faithful Witness said: "No matter how hard Satan tries, he keeps losing and Jehovah keeps winning!"

If religious persecution leads to growth, does that mean Latter Day Saints have been extremely blessed by God?

Paragraph 2 All of this is living proof of the truthfulness of God's promise toward his people as recorded at Isaiah 54:17: "Any weapon whatever that will be formed against you will have no success, and any tongue at all that will rise up against you in the judgment you will condemn." History confirms that nothing that Satan's world can do will ever put a stop to the worship of Jehovah God by his dedicated servants.

Could the mormons also cite this text?

Paragraph 3 Weapons used against true worshippers have included bans, mob violence, prisons, and the `framing of trouble by law.' (Psalm 94:20) Actually, in some lands, even as Witnesses of Jehovah are studying this article, these true Christians are being "put to the test" regarding their integrity to God.-Revelation 2:10.

Christians' integrity to whom?

Isaiah 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, you who tremble at His word: "Your brothers who hate you, who exclude you for My name's sake, Have said, 'Let the LORD be glorified, that we may see your joy ' But they will be put to shame.
Matthew 24:9 Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.
Mark 8:38"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."

Jesus is the LORD Jehovah!

Paragraph 4 For example, one branch office of Jehovah's Witnesses reported that during just one year, there were 32 cases in which God's servants were physically attacked while they engaged in the ministry. In addition, there were 59 incidents of police detention of Witnesses--young and old, male and female--who were preaching publicly. Some were fingerprinted, photographed, and placed behind bars as criminals. Others have been threatened with physical harm. In another land, there are now over 1,100 documented cases of Jehovah's Witnesses being arrested, fined, or beaten. More than 200 of these cases occurred on the day when they gathered to commemorate Jesus' death! Nonetheless, Jehovah's spirit has enabled his people to survive despite overwhelming odds, both in these lands and in other countries. (Zechariah 4:6) The heat of enemy wrath will not still the lips of those praising Jehovah. Yes, we are confident that no weapon can defeat God's purpose

They may want to look at persecution.org for startling statistics of those suffering for Jesus.

Paragraph 5 Isaiah prophesied that God's people would condemn any tongue that rose up against them. In the first century, Christians were often the object of misrepresentation, being depicted as evildoers. The words found at Acts 16:20, 21 are typical of such accusations: "These men are disturbing our city very much.... and they are publishing customs that it is not lawful for us to take up or practice, seeing we are Romans." On another occasion, religious opposers tried to incite the city rulers to act against Christ's followers, asserting: "These men that have overturned the inhabited earth are present here also, [and they] act in opposition to the decrees of Caesar." (Acts 17:6, 7) The apostle Paul was labeled "a pestilent fellow" and the leader of a sect that was stirring up seditions "throughout the inhabited earth." -Acts 24:2-5.

See how quickly they condemn anyone who believes the Watchtower is not God's sole channel of communication.

Paragraph 7 Such accusations and propaganda are often refuted by the fine conduct of Jehovah's Witnesses. (1 Peter 2:12) When Christians prove themselves to be law-abiding citizens and moral people who show genuine concern for the welfare of their fellow humans, the accusations hurled against them are shown up as false. Our good conduct speaks for itself. As observers note our perseverance in fine works, they are often moved to glorify our heavenly Father and to acknowledge the superior way of life of his servants.-Isaiah 60:14; Matthew 5:14-16.

Yes, that shunning received reeks of an air of superiority.

Paragraph 8 In addition to our godly conduct, it may at times be necessary to defend with boldness our Scriptural position. One way is by appealing to governments and courts for protection. (Esther 8:3; Acts 22:25-29; 25:1012) When Jesus was on earth, on occasion he openly contended with his critics, refuting their false accusations. (Matthew 12:34-37; 15:1-11) In imitation of Jesus, we welcome the opportunity to give others a clear explanation of our heartfelt convictions. (1 Peter 3:15) May we never allow ridicule at school, at work, or from unbelieving relatives to stop us from making known the truth of God's Word.-2 Peter 3:3, 4.

Why do they not openly engage questions about their false prophecies or erroneous takes on Scripture?

Paragraph 9 Zechariah's prophecy sheds light on the reason why the nations take their stand against true Christians. Note what Zechariah 12:3 says: "It must occur in that day that I shall make Jerusalem a burdensome stone to all the peoples." To which Jerusalem does this prophecy point? Zechariah's prophecy concerning Jerusalem applies to "heavenly Jerusalem," the heavenly Kingdom to which anointed Christians have been called. (Hebrews 12:22) A small remnant of these heirs of the Messianic Kingdom are still on earth. Along with their companions, the "other sheep," they urge people to turn to God's Kingdom while there is yet time. (John 10: 16; Revelation 11:15) How have the nations reacted to this invitation? And what kind of support does Jehovah give to true worshippers today? Let us find out as we further examine the meaning of Zechariah chapter 12. Doing so, we can gain the assurance that `no weapon will succeed' against God's anointed ones and their dedicated associates.

Most JW's are not even christians! They are just companions, "other sheep", associates..etc.

Paragraph 10 Zechariah 12:3 indicates that the nations receive "severe scratches." How does this happen? God has decreed that the good news of the Kingdom must be preached. Jehovah's Witnesses take seriously the obligation to preach. However, the heralding of the Kingdom as mankind's only hope has become "a burdensome stone" to the nations. They try to lift it out of the way by interfering with the Kingdom preachers. In so doing, the meddling nations have received "severe scratches for themselves," getting all cut up. Even their reputations have been hurt as they meet with humiliating failure. They cannot silence true worshippers, who cherish the privilege of proclaiming the "everlasting good news" of God's Messianic Kingdom before the end of this system of things. (Revelation 14:6) When seeing the violence done to Jehovah's servants, a prison guard in one African land said, in effect: 'You are wasting your efforts in persecuting these people. They will never compromise. They just increase.'

It's more accurate to say the Watchtower has received "severe scratches for themselves" by meddling with the United Nations (who they regard is the Beast from Revelation).

Paragraph 11 Read Zechariah 12:4. Jehovah makes the promise that he will figuratively blind and throw into "bewilderment" those who fight against his courageous Kingdom messengers. He has kept his word. For example, in one land where true worship was under ban, opposers were unable to keep spiritual food out of the hands of God's people. A newspaper even claimed that Jehovah's Witnesses were using balloons to get Bible literature into the country! God's promise to his loyal servants proved true: "I shall open my eyes, and every horse of the peoples I shall strike with loss of sight." Blind with fury, enemies of the Kingdom do not know which direction to take. Yet, we are convinced that Jehovah will preserve his people as a group and look out for their welfare.-2 Kings 6: 15-19.

Why is it they do not know which direction to take with all their doctrinal "new light"?

Paragraph 12 Read Zechariah 12:5, 6. "The sheiks of Judah" refer to those having oversight among God's people. Jehovah fills these with a fiery zeal in behalf of the earthly interests of his Kingdom. On one occasion, Jesus told his disciples: "I came to start a fire on the earth." (Luke 12:49) Truly, he did ignite a fire. By his zealous preaching activity, Jesus made God's Kingdom the paramount issue before the people. This sparked heated controversy throughout that Jewish nation. (Matthew 4:17, 25; 10:5-7, 17-20) Similarly, "like a firepot among trees and like a fiery torch in a row of newly cut grain," footstep followers of Christ in our day set things aflame in a spiritual way. The 1917 book The Finished Mystery* roundly exposed the hypocrisy of Christendom. That brought forth a bitter reaction from the clergy. In more recent times, Kingdom News No. 37, "The End of False Religion Is Near!" has moved many people to take their stand either for or against God's Kingdom.

According to them that fire was extinguished until Charles Taze Russell came along.

Paragraph 13 Read Zechariah 12:7, 8. In ancient Israel, tents were a distinctive feature in the land, at times being used by shepherds and agricultural workers. Such people would be the first affected and would be in need of protection if an enemy nation came to attack the city of Jerusalem. The expression "the tents of Judah" indicates that the anointed remnant in our time are out in the open field, so to speak, not in fortified cities. There they fearlessly defend the interests of the Messianic Kingdom. Jehovah of armies will save "the tents of Judah first" because these are in the direct line of Satan's attack.

Because the Watchtower has a class distinction.

Paragraph 14 Indeed, the historical record proves that Jehovah is defending these anointed ambassadors of the Kingdom in their "tents" out in the field.* He keeps them from "stumbling" in that he makes them strong and courageous like David, the warrior king.

The historical record proves they are false prophets.

Paragraph 15 Read Zechariah 12:9. Why does Jehovah "seek to annihilate all the nations"? Because they persistently oppose the Messianic Kingdom. For harassing and persecuting God's people, they stand condemned. Soon Satan's earthly agents will undertake a final attack on God's true worshippers, which will lead to the world situation described in the Bible as Har-Magedon. (Revelation 16:13-16) Responding to that assault, the Supreme Judge will defend his servants and sanctify his name among the nations.-Ezekiel 38:14-18, 22, 23.

This is not even true within their beliefs; after the 1,000 years then Satan's earthly agents will undertake a final attack. But they should keep on reading Zechariah.

Paragraph 16 Satan has no weapon that can weaken the faith or quench the zeal of God's people worldwide. Our spiritual peace, which results from Jehovah's saving power, is "the hereditary possession of the servants of Jehovah." (Isaiah 54:17) No one can forcibly deprive us of our peace and spiritual prosperity. (Psalm 118:6) Satan will continue to fan the flames of opposition and try to stir up tribulation. Our loyal endurance in the face of reproach is proof that God's spirit is resting upon us. (1 Peter 4:14) The good news of Jehovah's established Kingdom is being proclaimed worldwide. Like stunning deterrents, many symbolic "slingstones" of opposition have been hurled against God's people. Yet, in Jehovah's strength his servants overcome such stones, nullifying their effect. (Zechariah 9:15) The anointed remnant and their loyal companions will not be put out of action!

Once again my dear JW, you are not even a christian to them, just a companion and that's if you are loyal to them.

What about reading more from Zechariah?

Paragraph 17 We look forward to complete deliverance from the Devil's attacks. What comfort we have in the guarantee that `any weapon formed against us will not succeed, and any tongue at all that will rise up against us in the judgment we will condemn'!

Why don't they look forward to continue reading what Zechariah wrote?

Zechariah 12:10 "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.

The One that was pierced was Yahweh Himself, JESUS CHRIST.

If They Thought About It

2008-02-06T18:25:00.000-08:00

"So you see," the Watchtower superintendent mused to the one hundred and forty Kingdom Hall attendees, "if Jehovah God had come down to Earth Himself, He would have done exactly what Jesus did."

No Second-Rate Christians and the Promised Seed

2008-02-02T15:52:00.000-08:00

The Watchtower has essentially a two-class society.

The Anointed, faithful and discreet slave, the literal 144,000, born-again, a new nation, saints, Christ's brethren, the remnant, the true Christian congregation, in the promised seed, etc.

The Great Crowd, dwellers of Earth, companions of the True Christians, spiritual gentiles, and foreigners

More can be said about the two class system. Revelation, Its Grand Climax at Hand, the book currently being studied across congregations worldwide abounds with this differentiation.

Genesis 3:15 "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel."

While the Watchtower correctly teaches that the promised seed through Eve and later through Abraham is Jesus Christ, it perverts it by portraying only those who make up the 144,000 (in effect, the first-class christians) are able to be in the promised seed.

The Watchtower, December 1, 2007 In pronouncing his judgment against Satan, Jehovah revealed a new expression of his sovereignty, a means by which he would restore peace and order to all his realm. To Satan, God said: "I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel." (Genesis 3:15) Thus Jehovah revealed that it was his purpose to empower a "seed" to crush Satan and his forces and to prove the rightfulness of His sovereignty.-Psalm 2:7-9; 110:1, 2.

That "seed" turned out to be Jesus Christ, along with a distinct group of associate rulers. Together they form God's Messianic Kingdom. (Daniel 7:13, 14, 27; Matthew 19:28; Luke 12:32; 22:28-30) All of this, however, was not revealed immediately. In fact, the outworking of the first prophecy remained a "sacred secret which [had] been kept in silence for long-lasting times." (Romans 16:25) For centuries, men of faith longed for the time when "the sacred secret" would be revealed and the first prophecy fulfilled to the vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty.-Romans 8:19-21.

What does the Bible teach?

First, that God promised Abraham he would bless him. It wasn't anything that he earned or did; it was not his works, but his faith!

Romans 4:1 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. 3 What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness."

4 Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. 5 However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.

All who have the faith of Abraham are his children.

Galatians 3:6 Consider Abraham: "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." 7 Understand, then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. 8 The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you." 9 So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.

Second, that Jesus Christ is the seed of Abraham.

Galatians 3:16 The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say "and to seeds," meaning many people, but "and to your seed," meaning one person, who is Christ.

All who trust in Jesus (Jews and Gentiles) are made into one spiritual body.

Ephesians 2:11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (that done in the body by the hands of men)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.

13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

In Christ Jesus all believers are one.

Galatians 3:26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

This promise does not apply to only 144,000 humans, but to everyone who places their faith and trust in Jesus.

John 1:12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

There are no two-classes of believers in Christ. When we are born again, we are in Abraham's Seed, children of God by grace alone through faith alone because of Christ alone.

"Stand Firm And See The Salvation Of Jehovah"

2008-02-01T17:49:00.001-08:00

Paragraph 1 Today, mankind faces events of a magnitude never previously experienced. Foretelling this about our day, Jesus warned his followers: "There will be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world's beginning until now, no, nor will occur again. In fact, unless those days were cut short, no flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones those days will be cut short."-Matthew 24:21, 22.

Most JW's don't see themselves as the chosen ones. That would be for only approximately 8,000 people on this Earth.

Paragraph 2 Unseen to human eyes, heavenly forces are now holding back that great tribulation. The apostle John was privileged to see the reason for this restraint in a revelation given to him by Jesus. Here is how the aged apostle described it: "I saw four angels standing upon the four corners of the earth, holding tight the four winds of the earth ... And I saw another angel ascending from the sunrising, having a seal of the living God; and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels ... `Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until after we have sealed the slaves of our God in their foreheads."'-Revelation 7: 1-3.
Paragraph 3 The final sealing of the anointed "slaves of our God" is approaching completion. The four angels are ready to release those destructive winds. When they do, what will happen first? An angel answers that question: "With a swift pitch will Babylon the great city be hurled down, and she will never be found again." (Revelation 18:21) What heavenly rejoicing there will be when this happens, when the world empire of false religion is destroyed!-Revelation 19:1, 2.

What about the chapters between 7 and 18 in Revelation?

Paragraph 4 All the nations of the earth will have aligned themselves against Jehovah's people. Will the nations succeed in wiping out those faithful Christians? It may seem as if they could. But look! Heavenly armies following Christ Jesus will see to it that these human forces are destroyed. (Revelation 19:19-21) Finally, the Devil and his angels will be cast into an abyss of inactivity. They will no longer be able to mislead man because they will be bound for a thousand years. Oh, what a relief that will be to the great multitude of survivors!-Revelation 7: 9,10,14; 20:1-3.

Where is the great multitude? Is it on Earth according to their teachings?

Revelation 19:1 After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God

Heaven!

Revelation 19:19 Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to make war against the rider on the horse and his army.

The nations have actually aligned themselves against, not JW's, but the Faithful and True, the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS and the armies of heaven following Him.

Paragraph 5 We are about to experience these wonderful and awe-inspiring events. They all have to do with vindicating Jehovah's right to rule, his universal sovereignty. And think of this: If we remain loyal to Jehovah and if we stand firm for his sovereignty, we shall have the opportunity of sharing in the sanctification of Jehovah's name and the fulfillment of his purpose. What an inestimable joy that will be!

They forgot Judgement Day when God will demand an account.

Paragraph 6 Are we prepared for those momentous events? Do we have faith in Jehovah's saving power? Are we confident that he will come to our aid at the right time and in the best way? In answering such personal questions, we can keep in mind what the apostle Paul told his fellow Christians in Rome: "All the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4) Among the things written for our instruction, giving us comfort and hope, is the record of the occasion when Jehovah delivered the Israelites from the iron grip of their Egyptian oppressors. A close examination of those exciting events when Jehovah maneuvered the salvation of the sons of Israel should be of great encouragement to us as we look forward to the fast-approaching great tribulation.

Why then do JW's lack assurance of their salvation?

The next paragraphs are about Israel's deliverance from Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea.

Paragraph 14 What instruction, comfort, and hope do we gain from these thrilling events? Surely we can see that Jehovah is ready for any trial that his people have to go through. He is equal to any situation that may confront them. The Red Sea was no barrier to Israel when Jehovah caused that strong east wind to blow. And he was able to cause that same Red Sea to become a watery grave for Pharaoh's armies. Contemplating this, we can echo the words of the psalmist who said: "Jehovah is on my side; I shall not fear. What can earthling man do to me?" (Psalm 118:6) We can also find comfort in Paul's words recorded at Romans 8:31: "If God is for us, who will be against us?" What confidence these inspired sayings give us! They quiet any fears and doubts that we may have and fill us with hope. How appropriate, then, is our yeartext for 2008: "Stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah"!-Exodus 14:13.

God is equal to any trial? Is the Master not greater than that?

Paragraph 15 What else can we learn from Israel's Exodus from Egypt? That we must obey Jehovah no matter what he asks us to do. The Israelites were obedient in carrying out the detailed preparations for the Passover. They obediently stayed indoors during the night of Nisan 14. When they finally left Egypt, they had to go "in battle formation." (Exodus 13:18) Today, it is so important that we follow the guidance that comes to us through "the faithful and discreet slave"! (Matthew 24:45) We have to listen very carefully to God's word behind us, saying: "'This is the way. Walk in it, you people,' in case you people should go to the right or in case you should go to the left." (Isaiah 30: 21) As we get nearer to the outbreak of the great tribulation, we may well receive some detailed instructions. Our safe journey through those troublesome days will depend on our keeping in step with other loyal servants of Jehovah.

Once again the Watchtower sets itself up as the mouthpiece for God. They must relish the thought of assigning further instructions (commands) to their followers.

Paragraph 16 Remember, too, that Jehovah diverted the Israelites into a position where they appeared to be trapped between the mountains on the one side and the Red Sea on the other. It just did not seem to be the right move. But Jehovah had everything in hand, and all worked out to his praise and to the salvation of his people. Today, we may not clearly see why some organizational matters are handled in a certain way, but we have every reason to trust in Jehovah's guidance through his faithful channel of communication. At times, our enemies may seem to be getting the upper hand. From our limited perspective, we may not be able to see the whole picture. Still, Jehovah is capable of maneuvering matters at the right moment, just as he did back there for the sons of Israel. -Proverbs 3:5.

How are JW's going to implement discernment? The Society creates a win-win situation for itself. Whenever something arises that would question their authority, members can do nothing but accept it, otherwise they would be rebelling against God Himself.

1 John 4:1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

My dear JW friends, please take this seriously. Does truth change over time?

The Time Is at Hand, page 101 (1908 edition) "the ‘battle of the great day of God Almighty' (Revelation 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth's present rulership, is already commenced."

Millions Now Living Will Never Die, page 89 "Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews 11, to the condition of human perfection."

The Watchtower September 1, 1922 "The date 1925 is even more distinctly indicated by the Scriptures than 1914."

By their standard, who was anyone to question their words?

Paragraph 17 Can you imagine the feeling of confidence that the Israelites must have had as they thought back on that pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night? It was evidence that "the angel of the true God" was guiding their journey. (Exodus 13: 21, 22; 14:19) Today, we can have confidence that Jehovah is with his people to guide, protect, and deliver them. We can take to heart the promise: "[Jehovah] will not leave his loyal ones. To time indefinite they will certainly be guarded" (Psalm 37:28) Never let us forget those mighty angelic forces that are backing God's servants today. With their support, we can "stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah."-Exodus 14:13.

Paragraph 18 What will enable all of us to "stand firm" in the way of the truth? Wearing the spiritual armor described by Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. Notice that the apostle admonishes us to "put on the complete suit of armor from God." Are we wearing all the parts of this spiritual armor? In the coming calendar year, it would be well for each one to take stock of himself to make sure that every part of that armor is in place and fits well. Our enemy, Satan the Devil, knows our weaknesses, and he tries to catch us off guard or to attack a vulnerable spot. We have "a wrestling" with wicked spirit forces. Still, in Jehovah's strength, we can come off the winner! -Ephesians 6:11-18; Proverbs 27:11.

In the coming calendar year? What if this very night God demands your life?

Paragraph 19 Jesus said to his followers: "By endurance on your part you will acquire your souls." (Luke 21:19) May we be among those who faithfully endure any hardships that they may encounter and so be privileged byGod's undeserved kindness to "stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah."

In other words, they will be deserving of God's undeserved kindness.

The Bible clearly teaches it is not our works that save us.

Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Even faith is a gift from God to do the works He prepared for us to do.

Isaiah 26:12 LORD, You will establish peace for us, Since You have also performed for us all our works

1 Corinthians 12:6 There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.

The context of Luke 21:19 and even Matthew 10:22 "he who stands firm to the end will be saved" is PERSEVERANCE. Even in persecution and death, God will not leave, nor forsake His children.

Who Should Be The Republican Nominee?

2008-01-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

It was a breath of fresh air to see CNN moderate a republican debate where their intention is not to ridicule. Kudos to Anderson Cooper!

The debate did highlight how it is everyone versus Mitt Romney. Ron Paul has some good ideas, but his strong isolationist view of the country is not one of them. Mike Huckabee may be a great communicator, but when asked about the economic stimulus, he would prefer building super highways instead of receiving the tax rebates. Romney wisely pointed out the extreme amount of time and planning it would entail thus defeating the purpose. I've come to the conclusion Mitt Romney is the best of the candidates to lead the conservative movement.

What about John McCain? Near the end of the debate -after multiple attacks on Romney and constantly interrupting- McCain actually explains why he himself should not be the republican nominee.

Cooper: Senator McCain, would Ronald Reagan endorse you?

McCain: Ronald Reagan would not approve of someone who changes their positions depending on what the year is.

This is precisely what he has done, for example, McCain-Kennedy. McCain stated in this same debate he wouldn't even vote for it now. Declares he's the person to handle border security and familiar with "building walls, and vehicle barriers, and sensors, and all of the things necessary" yet nothing came of it before. Said he would appoint judges along the lines of Justices Roberts and Alito, but previously told others he would have drawn the line on Alito because "he wore his conservatism on his sleeve."

Right now, it is necessary for John McCain not to receive the nomination. Voters realizing his stances will help. Mike Huckabee retiring from the presidential race to avoid syphoning votes off from Romney might do the job.

The Great Day Of Jehovah

2008-01-26T21:09:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 2:12 For there shall be a day of Jehovah of hosts upon everything proud and lofty, and upon everything lifted up, and it shall be brought low

Ezekiel 13:5 Ye have not gone up into the breaches, nor made up the fence for the house of Israel, to stand in the battle in the day of Jehovah.

Zephaniah 1:14 The great day of Jehovah is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly. The voice of the day of Jehovah: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly.

Joel 1:15 Alas for the day! for the day of Jehovah is at hand, and as destruction from the Almighty shall it come.

Zechariah 14:1 Behold, the day cometh for Jehovah, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.

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Phillipians1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Phillipians 1:10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ

1 Thessalonians 5:2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night...9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ

2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare...12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat...18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

1 Corinthians 1:8 He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:14 as you have understood us in part, you will come to understand fully that you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.

"Are You Ready For Jehovah's Day?"

2008-01-26T18:50:00.000-08:00

The Organization opens up the study with a great scripture.

Zephaniah 1:14 "The great day of Jehovah is near. It is near, and there is a hurrying of it very much."

I couldn't agree with them more.

Paragraph 1 Jehovah's great day is not 24 hours long. It is an extended period during which divine judgment is executed upon the wicked. The ungodly have reason to dread that day of darkness, fury, burning anger, distress, and desolation. (Isaiah 13:9; Amos 5:18-20; Zephaniah 1:15) "Alas for the day," says Joel's prophecy, "because the day of Jehovah is near, and like a despoiling from the Almighty One it will come!" (Joel 1:15) On that great day, however, God will be the Savior of those "upright in heart."-Psalm 7:10.

Praise our Saviour!

Titus 3:4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 2 The expression "day of Jehovah" applies to the execution of divine judgment at various times. For instance, a "day of Jehovah" came upon Jerusalem's residents at Babylonian hands in 607 B.C.E.(Zephaniah 1:4-7) A comparable execution of God's judgment occurred in 70 C.E. when God used the Romans to execute his judgment upon the Jewish nation that rejected his Son. (Daniel 9: 24-27; John 19:15) The Bible also foretells a "day of Jehovah" when he will `war against all the nations.' (Zechariah 14:1-3) Under inspiration, the apostle Paul associated that day with Christ's presence, which began with Jesus' enthronement as heavenly King in 1914. (2 Thessalonians 2:1, 2) With the day of Jehovah looming on the horizon, the yeartext of Jehovah's Witnesses for 2007 has been especially appropriate. Taken from Zephaniah 1:14, it reads: "The great day of Jehovah is near."

607 BC? History has shown it was 586 BC.

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 5 Jesus had wholehearted love for Jehovah and for His righteous standards. Concerning Jesus, Hebrews 1:9 states: "You loved righteousness, and you hated lawlessness. That is why God, your God, anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners." Because he loved his heavenly Father, Jesus maintained integrity to him. If we have similar love for God and live up to his requirements, he will safeguard us. (Psalm 31:23) Such love and obedience will help us to be ready for the great day of Jehovah.

Hebrews 1 reveals more about the Son.

Hebrews 1:8 But about the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever, and righteousness will be the scepter of your kingdom. 9 You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." 10 He also says, "In the beginning, O Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.

Only God is the Creator.

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 6 Love for people was a notable feature of Jesus' personality. Indeed, "he felt pity for them, because they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd." (Matthew 9:36) Consequently, Jesus preached the good news to the people, just as love motivates us to proclaim the Kingdom message to our neighbors. Love for God and for our neighbor keeps us active as Christian ministers and thus helps to prepare us for the great day of Jehovah.-Matthew 22:37-39.

Skinned and thrown about; changes of doctrine like the blood ban, vaccinations, and organ transplants fall under this category.

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 8 Fervent prayer to God helped to prepare Jesus for tests of faith. He was praying when John baptized him. Jesus prayed for an entire night when he chose his apostles. (Luke 6:12-16) And what Bible reader is not impressed with Jesus' heartfelt prayers on the last night of his earthly life? (Mark 14:32-42; John 17:1-26) Are you a person of prayer, as Jesus was? Approach Jehovah often, linger in prayer, seek the direction of holy spirit, and be quick to accept that direction when it becomes evident. A strong relationship with our heavenly Father is vital at this critical time when God's great day is approaching rapidly. By all means, then, draw ever closer to Jehovah in prayer. James 4:8.

A prayer from the Son to the Father.

The great day of Jehovah.

John 17:20 "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 24 "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.

Do JW's expect to live with Jesus?

Paragraph 9 Concern about the sanctification of Jehovah's holy name also helped Jesus to be prepared for the trials he faced. In fact, he taught his followers that their prayers to God should include the request: "Let your name be sanctified." (Matthew 6:9) If we deeply desire that Jehovah's name be sanctified, or held sacred, we will strive to avoid doing anything that would bring reproach upon it. As a result, we will be better prepared for the great day of Jehovah.

Do false promises attributed to God result in reproach?

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 10 If Jehovah's day comes tomorrow, will you really be ready for it? Each of us would do well to examine his or her life to see if any actions or attitudes need to be adjusted. In view of the brevity and uncertainty of present human life, every one of us needs to be spiritually alert each day. (Ecclesiastes 9:11, 12; James 4:13-15) So let us consider some factors that may require attention in our lives.

"Don't put off till tomorrow what you can do today".

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 11 One key factor is the admonition of `the faithful slave' to read the Bible daily. (Matthew 24:45) You might make it your goal to read the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation meditatively once every year. By reading about four chapters a day, you can read the Bible's 1,189 chapters in one year. Each king of Israel was to read Jehovah's Law "all the days of his life." Evidently, Joshua did something similar. (Deuteronomy 17:14-20; Joshua 1:7, 8) How important it is that spiritual shepherds read God's Word daily, for this helps them to impart "healthful teaching"! -Titus 2:1.

This is ludicrous. Does it take an admonition from the Governing Body to make daily Bible reading a goal worth pursuing?

Paragraph 12 The nearness of Jehovah's day should move you to attend Christian meetings regularly and participate in them as fully as possible. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Doing so will help you to hone your skills as a Kingdom proclaimer who seeks to find and help those rightly disposed for everlasting life. (Acts 13: 48) Perhaps you could be more active in the congregation in other ways too, such as by helping the elderly and encouraging the young. How satisfying these efforts can be!

Because some people have more of a disposition for everlasting life than others.

Paragraph 13 Since Jehovah's day is imminent, do you need to make a greater effort to "put on the new personality which was created according to God's will in true righteousness and loyalty"? (Ephesians 4:20-24) As you cultivate godly qualities, others are likely to see that you are `walking by God's spirit' and displaying its fruitage. (Galatians 5:16, 22:25) Can you point to specific actions showing that you and your family have put on the new personality? (Colossians 3:9, 10) For instance, are you known for deeds of kindness to fellow believers and others? (Galatians 6: 10) A regular study of the Scriptures will assist you in developing godly qualities that will prepare you for Jehovah's day.

Would a JW who explains he doesn't need the Watchtower be shown any acts of kindness from those in the congregation?

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 14 Suppose that strained relations exist between you and a certain fellow believer. In that case, make every effort to repair the breach, thus promoting the peace and unity of the congregation. (Psalm 133:1-3) Apply the counsel of Jesus as recorded at Matthew 5:23, 24 or Matthew 18:15-17. If you have been letting the sun set while you are still in a provoked state, be quick to correct matters. Often all that is needed is a willingness to forgive. Paul wrote: "Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you."-Ephesians 4:25, 26, 32.

Not to the person who does not need the Watchtower for salvation.

Paragraph 17 What if you have sinned seriously in some way? Take remedial steps as soon as possible. By all means, seek the assistance of Christian elders. Their prayers and counsel will help restore you to spiritual health. (James 5:13-16) Pray to Jehovah with a repentant attitude. Failure to do so would leave you with a sense of guilt and a troubled conscience. David had that experience, but how good it was to get the relief that came with confession to Jehovah! David wrote: "Happy is the one whose revolt is pardoned, whose sin is covered. Happy is the man to whose account Jehovah does not put error, and in whose spirit there is no deceit." (Psalm 32:1-5) Jehovah forgives those who sin but are genuinely repentant.-Psalm 103: 8-14; Proverbs 28:13

Have they repented of their sins and trusted Jesus as their sole saviour?

Paragraph 19 Are you helping your children to 'keep themselves without spot from the world'? (James 1:27) Satan would like to reel in your children as a man reels in fish. Various clubs and other organizations are designed to make young people fit in with Satan's world. But Jehovah's servants already belong to the only organization that will survive the end of this wicked system of things. So Christian youths should be encouraged to have "plenty to do in the work of the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58) Godly parents need to assist their children to set goals that will give them a happy and rewarding life that honors God and helps them to be ready for Jehovah's day.

"The only organization that will survive the end of this wicked system of things." This is a keeper.

The great day of Jehovah.

Paragraph 20 You will be able to await Jehovah's day with a calm heart if you keep everlasting life in view. (Jude 20, 21) You look forward to eternal life in Paradise, and thus you have the hope of renewed youthful vitality and unlimited time to pursue wholesome goals and learn more about Jehovah. You can actually go on learning about God forever because humans now know only "the fringes of his ways." (Job 26:14) What exciting prospects!

Everlasting life for a JW is living a long time without aging and playing with the animals. What about glorifying God in His awesome presence?

The great day of Jehovah..

Paragraph 21 In Paradise, resurrected ones will be able to fill in some gaps in our knowledge of the past. Enoch will be there to explain how he had the courage needed to declare Jehovah's message to ungodly people. (Jude 14, 15) Noah will certainly relate what it was like to build the ark. Abraham and Sarah will be able to reveal how they felt about leaving the comforts of Ur and living in tents. Think of Esther supplying details about how she stood up for her people and foiled Haman's plot against them. (Esther 7:1-6) Imagine Jonah telling about his three days in the belly of the big fish or John the Baptizer describing his feelings when he baptized Jesus. (Luke 3:21, 22; 7:28) What intriguing things to learn!

Much ado about the creatures...

Paragraph 22 During Christ's Thousand Year Reign, you may be privileged to help resurrected ones to gain "the very knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:1-6) Today, what a pleasure it is to see people take in knowledge of Jehovah God and act upon it! But think of your joy at that future time when Jehovah blesses your efforts to instruct people from bygone eras and they respond with appreciative hearts!

...and not the Creator.

Paragraph 23 The benefits we now enjoy as Jehovah's people are beyond our imperfect efforts to number or evaluate. (Psalm 40:5) Especially are we grateful for God's spiritual provisions. (Isaiah 48:17,18) Regardless of our circumstances, let us wholeheartedly render sacred service as we await the greatday of Jehovah.

Meaning, be grateful for the literature offered by the "faithful slave" which is bound to change.

THE GREAT DAY OF JEHOVAH

Phillipians1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Phillipians 1:10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ

1 Thessalonians 5:2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night...9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ

2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare...12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat...18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

1 Corinthians 1:8 He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:14 as you have understood us in part, you will come to understand fully that you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus

Amen, Come Lord Jesus!

"I Have Experience"

2008-01-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

Must Have Studied Before

2008-01-21T19:30:00.001-08:00

The two sisters only spend five minutes before returning to the car where the rest of us are waiting.

"How did it go?" I ask the younger sister, an elder's wife, who took the initiative in conversating with the lady at the door.

"She was very pleasant to talk to. I told her the Last Days would be just like in Noah's time. Then she mentions that must've been quite the sight seeing the animals go towards the Ark all by themselves."

"She sure was knowledgeable about that", the other sister chimed in.

"I agree", replied the younger one and smiled, "she must have studied with Jehovah's Witnesses before".

Or she may have read the Bible before.

"Are You Ready For Jehovah's Sovereignty?"

2008-01-20T12:09:00.000-08:00

"Are you ready for Jehovah's Sovereignty" is the name of the latest Watchtower Study published by the Society. It is also a question they should be asking themselves.

Paragraph 1 A momentous event, one that had never before been seen on earth, occurred about October 29 C.E. The Gospel writer Matthew reports: "After being baptized Jesus immediately came up from the water; and, look! the heavens were opened up, and [John the Baptizer] saw descending like a dove God's spirit coming upon [Jesus]. Look! Also, there was a voice from the heavens that said: `This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved."' This was one of the few events that was recorded by all four Gospel writers.-Matthew 3:16, 17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21, 22; John 1:32-34.
Paragraph 2 The visible outpouring of holy spirit upon Jesus identified him as the Anointed One, which term means Messiah, or Christ. (John 1:33) At long last, the promised "seed" had appeared! Standing before John the Baptizer was the one whose heel was to be bruised by Satan and who was to bruise the head of that archenemy of Jehovah and His sovereignty. (Genesis 3: 15) From that point on, Jesus was fully aware that he must endeavor to fulfill Jehovah's purpose regarding His sovereignty and the Kingdom.

From that point on? Did not Jesus as a boy know God to be his Father, the temple his home and his life for the Father?

Luke 2:46 After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you."

49 "Why were you searching for me?" he asked. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?"

On a side note, is it so difficult to call John "the Baptist"?

Paragraph 3 To be prepared for the task at hand, "Jesus, full of holy spirit, turned away from the Jordan, and he was led about by the spirit in the wilderness." (Luke 4:1; Mark 1:12) There, for 40 days Jesus had time to meditate deeply on the issue of sovereignty raised by Satan and on the course that He had to take to uphold Jehovah's sovereignty. That issue involves all intelligent creatures—in heaven and on earth. So we do well to consider Jesus' faithful course and see what we must do to show that we too wish to uphold Jehovah's sovereignty.-Job 1:6-12; 2:2-6.

So Jesus had a forty-day sovereignty-themed timeout? The bible says he was tempted not just for those forty days, but according to Luke 4:13, "until an opportune time" arrived. They would do well to consider Jesus faithful course and know he NEVER sinned.

Paragraph 6 To begin with, "Jesus went into Galilee, preaching the good news of God and saying: `The appointed time has been fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has drawn near."' (Mark 1:14, 15) In fact, he said: "I must declare the good news of the kingdom of God, because for this I was sent forth." (Luke 4:18, 21, 43) Jesus traveled the length and breadth of the land, "preaching and declaring the good news of the kingdom of God." (Luke 8:1) Jesus also performed many powerful works—feeding the crowds, taming the elements, curing the sick, and raising the dead. By means of these miracles, Jesus proved that God can undo all the damage and suffering that resulted from the Edenic rebellion and thus "break up the works of the Devil."-1 John 3:8.

And what were the good news? That Christ became enthroned in 1914 AD and soon the planet would be a garden and friendly animals would roam about?

Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.

Matthew 20:28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

His mission was clear.

Paragraph 8 Jesus spared no effort and passed up no opportunity to bear witness to the Kingdom. He worked incessantly, laboring day and night, even forgoing the normal comforts of life. "Foxes have dens and birds of heaven have roosts, but the Son of man has nowhere to lay down his head," he said. (Luke 9:58; Mark 6:31; John 4:31-34) Shortly before his death, Jesus boldly stated before Pontius Pilate: "For this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth." (John 18:37) Jesus' entire life course demonstrated that he came, not simply to be a great teacher or a miracle worker or even just a self-sacrificing Savior, but to uphold Jehovah's sovereign will and to bear witness to God's ability to fulfill that will through the Kingdom.-John 14:6.

That scripture reads,

John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

While you are at it, just ignore why Jesus is the Lamb of God and how He paid for our sins.

Hebrews 9:26 Then Christ would have had to suffer many times since the creation of the world. But now he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Apparently His Sacrifice is important.

Paragraph 10 What comes to your mind when you think of Jesus on the torture stake suffering a slow and agonizing death? Perhaps you remember the ransom sacrifice that Jesus unselfishly gave in behalf of sinful mankind. (Matthew 20:28; John 15:13) You may marvel at the great love that Jehovah showed in providing that sacrifice. (John 3:16) Perhaps you feel as did the Roman army officer who was moved to say: "Certainly this was God's Son." (Matthew 27:54) All of these surely are fitting responses. On the other hand, recall that Jesus' last words on the torture stake were: "It has been accomplished!" (John 19:30) What had been accomplished? While Jesus achieved many things by his life and death, was it not primarily for settling the issue of Jehovah's sovereignty that Jesus came to earth? And was it not foretold that as the "seed," he would suffer the extreme test at Satan's hands so as to clear Jehovah's name of all reproach? (Isaiah 53:3-7) These were weighty responsibilities, yet Jesus fulfilled them in every respect. What an accomplishment!

What has been accomplished? Let's read those verses.

Isaiah 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.

Contrary to the Watchtower's self-centered theology, God is not about having his ego bruised; He is about about being holy, just, and loving. He Redeems lost and unloveable creatures. What Christ accomplished cannot be added to, it truly has been done.

Paragraph 11 For his faithfulness and loyalty, Jesus was resurrected, not as a human, but as "a life-giving spirit." (1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Peter 3:18) Jehovah's promise to his glorified Son was: "Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies as a stool for your feet." (Psalm 110:1) The "enemies" include the chief culprit, Satan, and all those making up his "seed." As King of Jehovah's Messianic Kingdom, Jesus Christ will take the lead in bringing all rebels to nothing, in heaven and on earth. (Revelation 12:7-9; 19:11-16; 20:1-3, 10) Then will come the complete fulfillment of the prophecy at Genesis 3:15 as well as of the prayer that Jesus taught his followers: "Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth."-Matthew 6:10; Philippians 2:8-11.

Once again they diminish Jesus and his ressurection. What happened when the disciples saw Jesus and thought he was an apparition?

Luke 24:37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."

Later on He even eats in their presence to reassure them he is physical yet glorified.

Paragraph 12 Today, the good news of the Kingdom is being preached in many lands, as Jesus prophesied it would be. (Matthew 24:14) As a result, millions of people have dedicated their life to God. They are excited about the blessings that the Kingdom will bring. They look forward to living forever in peace and security on a paradise earth, and they joyfully tell others about their hope. (Psalm 37:11; 2 Peter 3:13) Are you one of these Kingdom proclaimers? If so, you are to be commended. There is, however, something else that each one of us must consider.

Why don't they continue quoting Psalm 37?

Psalm 37:19 In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.

Is it because they don't expect desertification and cropland losses in their Paradise?

Paragraph 13 The apostle Peter wrote: "Christ suffered for you, leaving you a model for you to follow his steps closely." (1 Peter 2:21) Note that in this instance, Peter mentioned, not Jesus' zeal in preaching or his skill in teaching, but his suffering. As an eyewitness, Peter was well-aware of the extent to which Jesus was willing to suffer in order to submit to Jehovah's sovereignty and prove Satan to be the liar that he is. In what ways, then, can we follow Jesus' steps? We must ask ourselves: `To what extent am I willing to suffer in order to support and honor Jehovah's sovereignty? Do I show by the way I live my life and carry out my ministry that upholding Jehovah's sovereignty is my foremost concern?'-Colossians 3:17.

Why then downplay His Sacrifice throughout this entire article?

First Temple seal found in Jerusalem

2008-01-18T18:16:00.000-08:00

From the Jerusalem Post:

A stone seal bearing the name of one of the families who acted as servants in the First Temple and then returned to Jerusalem after being exiled to Babylonia has been uncovered in an archeological excavation in Jerusalem's City of David, a prominent Israeli archeologist said Wednesday.

The 2,500-year-old black stone seal, which has the name "Temech" engraved on it, was found earlier this week amid stratified debris in the excavation under way just outside the Old City walls near the Dung Gate, said archeologist Dr. Eilat Mazar, who is leading the dig.

According to the Book of Nehemiah, the Temech family were servants of the First Temple and were sent into exile to Babylon following its destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BCE.

I wonder if any JW's will look at the date of the First Temple destruction by the Babylonians and see it is not 607 BC as they have been taught by the Watchtower.

A

2008-01-13T18:18:00.000-08:00

My first real life sighting of someone wearing the "A" shirts from Richard Dawkins happened earlier today.

Amazingly "A" does not stand for "Atrocious" in fashion design.

"Jehovah's Sovereignty and the Kingdom of God"

2008-01-12T14:29:00.000-08:00

JW's, in particular, will benefit from this Watchtower Study.

Paragraph 1 "Jehovah himself has firmly established his throne in the very heavens; and over everything his own kingship has held domination." (Psalm 103:19) With those words, the psalmist pointed to the fundamental concept of rulership. Jehovah God, being the Creator, is rightfully the Sovereign Ruler of the universe.

The Sovereign Ruler of the universe, the author of creation and rightful King.

Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Revelation 17:14 They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers."
Jude 1:4 For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.

Are there two Universal Sovereigns, two King of Kings and two Lord of Lords?

Paragraph 2 Of course, for a ruler to exercise his sovereignty, there need to be subjects. To begin with, Jehovah exercised his dominion over spirit creatures whom he brought into existence–first his only-begotten Son and then the angelic hosts. (Colossians 1:15-17) Far down the stream of time, the prophet Daniel was given a glimpse of the heavenly scene. He reported: "I kept on beholding until there were thrones placed and the Ancient of Days sat down.... There were a thousand thousands that kept ministering to him, and ten thousand times ten thousand that kept standing right before him." (Daniel 7:9, 10) For aeons Jehovah, "the Ancient of Days," presided as Sovereign over his immense and orderly family of spirit sons, who served as "ministers" doing his will.-Psalm 103:20, 21.

Notice that wording? Are they now trying to distance themselves, perhaps even regretting that they ever taught Jesus Christ is an angel?

The Watchtower November 1, 1995 "The foremost angel, both in power and authority, is the archangel, Jesus Christ, also called Michael. (1 Thessalonians 4:16; Jude 9) Under his authority are seraphs, cherubs, and angels"

Another dilemma is revealed. Are they saying God needs subjects to be legitimate? Since they teach Jehovah is only the Father, does that mean he was not GOD before the creation?

Paragraph 3 Eventually, Jehovah extended his rulership by bringing into existence the vast and intricate physical universe, including the earth. (Job 38:4, 7) To an observer on earth, the heavenly bodies operate with such order and precision that they seem to need no one to guide or govern them. Yet, the psalmist declared: "[Jehovah] himself commanded, and they were created. And he keeps them standing forever, to time indefinite. A regulation he has given, and it will not pass away." (Psalm 148:5, 6) All along, Jehovah has been exercising his sovereignty in directing, regulating, and governing the operations of the spirit realm and the physical universe.-Nehemiah 9:6.

Praise Jehovah!

Hebrews 1:3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.

The Son sustains every single thing by his word. Earlier quoted is Colossians 1:17 where every single thing is held together by King Jesus. Praise Him indeed!

Paragraph 6 Since Jehovah, the Universal Sovereign, has always been exercising his power and mightiness, why is there a need for the Kingdom of God? A sovereign generally exercises his authority through an agency that is placed over his subjects. The Kingdom of God, therefore, is an expression or exercise of God's universal sovereignty toward his creatures, a means or an agency used by him to carry out his rulership.

What are they trying to explain?

The Watchtower July 15, 2006 The Kingdom of God is a government ordained by God. Its King—the Messiah, Jesus Christ—and all his associate rulers are responsible to God to uphold His just laws and loving principles. The subjects of the Kingdom, including its earthly representatives, take delight in living by God’s laws. God is thus at the center of the lives of the rulers and the subjects of the Kingdom. Therefore, the Kingdom is a true theocracy—rule by God. It is bound to succeed in accomplishing the purpose for which it has been set up.

Since they believe they'll never see Jesus physically, the new government in the Paradise will have new laws and regulations. Everyone will learn of these because the dissemination will be flawless.

Paragraph 10 That "seed" turned out to be Jesus Christ, along with a distinct group of associate rulers. Together they form God's Messianic Kingdom. (Daniel 7:13, 14, 27; Matthew 19:28; Luke 12:32; 22:28-30) All of this, however, was not revealed immediately. In fact, the outworking of the first prophecy remained a "sacred secret which [had] been kept in silence for long-lasting times." (Romans 16:25) For centuries, men of faith longed for the time when "the sacred secret" would be revealed and the first prophecy fulfilled to the vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty.-Romans 8:19-21.

Most JW's believe they can never be part of Abraham's seed, they think only a few who were alive before the cutoff date of 1935 and then--oh, sorry...the May 1, 2007 issue said that wasn't the case after all. However, only a fraction of the remaining 144,000 people will go to heaven.

What does the Bible teach?

First, that God promised Abraham he would bless him. It wasn't anything that he earned or did; it was not his works, but his faith!

Romans 4:1 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. 3 What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness."

4 Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. 5 However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.

All who have the faith of Abraham are his children.

Galatians 3:6 Consider Abraham: "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." 7 Understand, then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. 8 The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you." 9 So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.

Second, that Jesus Christ is the seed of Abraham.

Galatians 3:16 The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say "and to seeds," meaning many people, but "and to your seed," meaning one person, who is Christ.

All who trust in Jesus (Jews and Gentiles) are made into one spiritual body.

Ephesians 2:11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (that done in the body by the hands of men)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.

13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

In Christ Jesus all believers are one.

Galatians 3:26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

This promise does not apply to only 144,000, but to everyone who places their faith and trust in Jesus.

John 1:12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

If we are His Body, His Church and Temple, we are Abraham's Seed, children of God by grace alone through faith alone because of Christ alone.

Paragraph 12 By Abraham's time, there had already been human attempts at rulership and domination. For example, concerning Nimrod, the great-grandson of Noah, the Bible says: "He made the start in becoming a mighty one in the earth. He displayed himself a mighty hunter in opposition to Jehovah." (Genesis 10:8, 9) Clearly, Nimrod and other self-appointed rulers were puppets in Satan's hands. They and their supporters became part of Satan's seed.-1 John 5:19.
Paragraph 13 In spite of Satan's efforts to produce human rulers, Jehovah's purpose moves forward. Through Abraham's grandson Jacob, Jehovah revealed: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:10) The term "Shiloh" means "He Whose It Is; He to Whom It Belongs." Thus, these prophetic words indicated that there would come one who had the legal right to receive "the scepter," or sovereignty, and "the commander's staff," or rulership, over "the peoples," or all mankind. Who would this One be?

They don't give God enough credit.

Psalm 75:7 But it is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.
Daniel 2:21 It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings
Romans 13:1 Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

Last paragraph.

Paragraph 19 At last, the time for revealing "the sacred secret" had drawn near. The principal One of the promised "seed" was soon to appear. (Galatians 4:4; 1 Timothy 3:16) He would be bruised in the heel by Satan. But that "seed," in turn, will bruise Satan's head, putting him and all his cohorts out of action. He would also bear witness that by means of the Kingdom of God, all the damage done by Satan will be undone and Jehovah's sovereignty vindicated. (Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8) How would Jesus accomplish this? What example did he leave for us to imitate? We will find the answers in the following article.

Let's see what they come up with next.

The Immoral Gene?

2008-01-09T18:07:00.000-08:00

Mike at Christian Cognition with another interesting article.

Excerpt:

If macro-Evolution / natural selection / Darwinism are true – that species are selected to survive based on their survivable traits – is it possible for gay species to fit into the reproductive model? It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to conclude that same-sex, sexually-reproductive species cannot reproduce their own kind when uniting together. If there is a gay gene that has evolved over time, wouldn’t those same gay genes actually die? (Therefore, it seems that the gay gene – if there was one – would die after the first generation.) After all, they cannot survive via reproduction. Instead, it seems they would adapt and evolve into heterosexual genes.

And how can it be moral (according to Darwinists) for same-sex, sexually-reproductive species to lay with the same sex of that same species? If Darwinism means that unfit species with doomed traits would eventually die, then why would it be moral for that species to lie with the same sex of that same species when doing so would lead to its own death? Instead, it should absolutely not lie with the same sex of that species. Therefore, shouldn’t the Darwinist strongly oppose homosexuality since the species cannot survive via reproduction (without the assistance of the opposite sex)?

"So what?"

2008-01-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

At a special day assembly, during the interview segment, a middle-aged JW relates his experience when the circuit overseer visited his congregation.

"When the circuit overseer had inquired why I hadn't gone out to service since my work accident I could only tell him that I felt too depressed. The injuries I suffered had left both my hands immobile and I couldn't do much."

"So what?" he replied, "you still have both your legs and you have your mouth."

"A weekend later I was back going door to door."

The assembly hall erupted into applause and even as he was taking his seat that brother attempted to join in with his floppy hands.

I have to admit that is zeal, but I pain for that man. He's out there preaching a false gospel.

Galatians 1:6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ.
8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! 9 As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned!

"Imitate the Greatest Disciple Maker"

2008-01-05T15:49:00.001-08:00

In "Imitate the Greatest Disciple Maker", the Watchtower relegates the Master to being the finest salesman.

Paragraph 1 Jesus Christ was fulfilling his role as the Great Teacher and Disciple Maker when he told his followers: "Pay attention to how you listen." (Luke 8:16-18) That principle applies to your ministry as a Christian. If you pay attention to spiritual instruction, you will act on it and be an effective Kingdom proclaimer. Of course, you cannot hear the voice of Jesus today, but you can read about what he said and did, as revealed in the Scriptures. What do they disclose about the way Jesus dealt with people during his ministry?

Paragraph 2 Jesus was an excellent preacher of the good news and an outstanding teacher of Scriptural truth. (Luke 8:1; John 8:28) The work of making disciples involves both preaching and teaching, yet some Christians who are commendable preachers find it difficult to teach people effectively. Whereas preaching involves proclaiming a message, teaching people about Jehovah and his purposes usually requires that a disciple-maker build a relationship with them. (Matthew 28:19, 20) This can be done by imitating Jesus Christ, the Great Teacher and Disciple Maker.-John 13:13.

Paragraph 4 From childhood on, Jesus had the custom of listening to people and encouraging them to express their views. When he was 12 years old, for example, his parents found him in the midst of the teachers in the temple, "listening to them and questioning them." (Luke 2:46) Jesus did not go to the temple to embarrass the teachers with his knowledge. He went there to listen, although he also asked questions. His inclination to be a good listener may have been one quality that gained him favor with God and men.-Luke 2:52.

Notice they mention the listening, but neglect the questioning. Nevertheless, Christ instead of giving pointers about how to listen, describes the Word of God demanding a verdict.

Luke 8:16 "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him."

The Society wants to make this about something entirely different.

Paragraph 5 After his baptism and anointing as the Messiah, Jesus maintained his interest in listening to people. He did not become so absorbed in what he was teaching that he forgot about those who came to hear him speak. Often, he would pause, ask what they thought, and listen to their response. (Matthew 16:13-15) For example, after the death of Martha's brother, Lazarus, Jesus told her: "Everyone that is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all." He then asked her: "Do you believe this?" And Jesus surely listened as Martha replied: "Yes, Lord; I have believed that you are the Christ the Son of God." (John 11:26, 27) How satisfying it must have been to hear Martha express her faith in that way!

Has anyone EVER considered that?

Paragraph 7 Another reason why Jesus was an effective disciple-maker is that he cared about people and listened to them with respect. On one occasion, for instance, Jesus witnessed to a Samaritan woman near Jacob's fountain at Sychar. During that discussion, Jesus did not do all the talking; he listened to what she had to say. While listening to her, Jesus noted her interest in worship and told her that God was looking for those who would worship Him with spirit and truth. Jesus showed respect and concern for this woman, whereupon she told others about him, and "many of the Samaritans out of that city put faith in him on account of the word of the woman."-John 4:5-29, 39-42.

So much for requiring a disciple-maker to "build a relationship" per paragraph two. How long did Jesus take before sharing the gospel with her?

John 4:4 Now he had to go through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?"8 (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) 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.)
10 Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."

The Watchtower also tries to set up the pretext Jesus could have kept on talking endlessly, but out of respect and concern for the woman, he listened. The fact is our Lord knows all things and it wasn't by accident she met Him.

John 4:25 The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." 26 Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."

Back to the study.

Paragraph 9 Jesus was never at a loss for words. Besides being a good listener, he was often aware of what people were thinking, and he knew exactly what to say. (Matthew 9:4; 12:22-30; Luke 9:46, 47) To illustrate: Shortly after Jesus' resurrection, two of his disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus. "As they were conversing and discussing," says the Gospel account, "Jesus himself approached and began walking with them; but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. He said to them: `What are these matters that you are debating between yourselves as you walk along?' And they stood still with sad faces. In answer the one named Cleopas said to him: `Are you dwelling as an alien by yourself in Jerusalem and so do not know the things that have occurred in her in these days?' And he said to them: `What things?'" The Great Teacher listened as they explained that Jesus the Nazarene taught people, performed miracles, and was executed. Now some were saying that he had been raised from the dead. Jesus let Cleopas and his companion express themselves. Then he explained what they needed to know, "fully opening up the Scriptures" to them.-Luke 24:13-27, 32

Could it have been because Jesus is the One who searches hearts and minds (Rev 2:23)? If they expect JW's to imitate His omniscience it will be futile.

Psalms 139:1 O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.

Mark 2:8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you thinking these things?"

Continuing.

Paragraph 15 In addition to using questions effectively, you can encourage conversation by saying something interesting and then listening to the response. For instance, Jesus told Nicodemus: "Unless anyone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3) Those words were so intriguing that Nicodemus could not hold back from responding and listening to Jesus. (John 3:420) You may be able to draw people into conversations in a similar way.

But do they want their members to be born again christians?

Paragraph 17 Jesus was interested not only in adults but also in children. He knew about the games youngsters played and the things they said. Sometimes he would invite children to come to him. (Luke 7:31, 32; 18:1517) Many children were among the crowds listening to Jesus. When young boys shouted out in praise of the Messiah, Jesus took note and showed that the Scriptures had foretold this. (Matthew 14:21; 15:38; 21:15, 16) Today, many children are becoming disciples of Jesus. So how can you help them?

What would they think of children singing their hearts out to Jesus?

Paragraph 20 Whether you are discussing a subject with your child or anyone else, good listening is vital. Indeed, it is an expression of love. By listening, you are acting in a humble way, and the one speaking is being shown respect and loving consideration. Of course, listening requires that you pay attention to the person's expressions.

Paragraph 21 As you engage in the Christian ministry, keep on listening carefully to the householders. If you pay close attention to what they say, you are likely to discern which aspects of Bible truth will be especially appealing to them. Then endeavor to help them by employing Jesus' various methods of teaching. As you do so, you will be rewarded with joy and satisfaction because you are imitating the Great Disciple Maker.

And is that what they think of Jesus Christ, as a man who knew how to get a following? As someone who was an attentive listener and tactfully asked questions? They have separated Him from the gospel when He is the central message. All the scriptures were pointing towards the Messiah. Without a King there is no Kingdom.

John 8:24 "Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins."

I'm Not Who I Was

2008-01-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

Evidence Ministries has produced an amazing video of just a few of the many former Jehovah's Witnesses who have been redeemed by the person and work of Jesus Christ.

God, thank you for saving them. You are most merciful, loving, and majestic and only you deserve the praise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The song is written by Brandon Heath.

For more information please visit http://www.happyxwitness.com/

Baptism at a JW Convention

2007-12-31T17:19:00.000-08:00

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”

2007-12-30T13:16:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-29T22:06:00.000-08:00

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"

2007-12-29T15:34:00.001-08:00

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

2007-12-28T20:00:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-24T10:57:00.000-08:00

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'".

2007-12-23T17:22:00.000-08:00

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"

2007-12-20T19:22:00.000-08:00

A Show of Hands, Kids!

2007-12-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

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

"The Word of Jehovah Never Fails"

2007-12-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-13T18:19:00.001-08:00

Matt Slick defending the unborn.

Excellent brother, God bless you!

"Responding To Your Conscience"

2007-12-12T17:52:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-06T15:44:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-27T16:35:00.001-08:00

Deliverance from the traps of the Birdcatcher

2007-11-24T12:20:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

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?

2007-11-12T15:54:00.000-08:00

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.