Still Alive!

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!

Call On the Name of Jesus

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!

Obama Never Knows

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.

The Only Way

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!

"Keep Jehovah Before You Constantly"

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."

"'Rightly Disposed' Ones Are Learning"

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?

Jesus as the I AM

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'"

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.

No Second-Rate Christians and the Promised Seed

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"

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.

The Great Day Of Jehovah

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.