Changing Light

THE FOLLOWING IS BASED SOLELY ON PUBLISHED WT MATERIAL AND TEACHINGS.

This information from the WT Society has been taught and preached as indisputable truth, provided by Jehovah God himself to his earthly channel of the Faithful Slave, to be served as ‘food at the proper time’. All were assured that it was based solidly and reliably on the Bible, but it was later changed, changed back, then changed again.

How might God feel about the WT attributing the teaching of these doctrinal errors to Him? Gal 2:18 says “If the very things that I once threw down I build up again, I demonstrate myself to be a transgressor.”

It would be very convenient to reject all of this information by simply declaring it ‘apostate’ (as it definitely will be, since this is the JW pre-programmed, kneejerk defence to any reasonable questioning of a WT teaching), but what exactly is being called ‘apostate’, since all these quotes are taken straight out of JW publications? Most of which are still available in every Kingdom Hall library!

The scriptural definition of ‘apostate’ as quoted by GB member Geoffrey Jackson in Aug 2015 are “those who actively go against what the Bible teaches”. It is not those who question ‘The Truth’ du jour of the WT Society. Speaking truth is not apostasy, for what was once called apostasy is now called ‘current truth’.

*** w63 11/15 p. 688 par. 3 Execution of Divine Judgment upon False Religion ***

“It is not a form of religious persecution for anyone to say and to show that another religion is false. It is not religious persecution for an informed person to expose publicly a certain religion as being false, thus allowing persons to see the difference between false religion and true religion.”

_____________________________________________________________________________________

We should ‘make sure of all things’, so this document follows the advice given in w13 02/15 p.12, par 18: “We benefit from balanced consideration of the history of Jehovah’s organization. Moreover, we do well to examine our history, learn from it, and plan for the future.”

As you read the YES/NO/YES/NO flip flopping teachings, consider the reprimand given in 1 Kings 18:21:

“E·li’jah approached all the people and said: “How long will you be limping upon two different opinions?”

Should you be disturbed by continually changing religious teachings? The Awake! answers “Yes”:

— g70 4/22 p. 8 Changes That Disturb People

“Yes, millions of persons have been shocked to learn that things they were taught as being vital for salvation are now considered by their church to be wrong. Have you, too, felt discouragement or even despair because of what is happening in your church? A businessman in Colombia expressed the effect the changes have had on many.”Tell me,” he asked, “how can I have confidence in anything? How can I believe in the Bible, in God, or have faith? Just ten years ago we Catholics had the absolute truth, we put all our faith in this. Now the pope and our priests are telling us this is not the way to believe any more, but we are to believe ‘new things.’ How do I know the ‘new things’ will be the truth in five years?”

How can you “continue in the things learned” (2Tim 3:14) when the things learned keep changing?

Who fits Pauls description of “always learning yet never able to come to an accurate knowledge of truth”?

Consider too the irony of statements such as that found in w61 1/1 p. 19 par. 9 “Apply Your Hearts”:

“In order to help those who are sighing and crying because of the abominations that exist in the world Jehovah’s witnesses use much printed matter to aid people to get acquainted with God’s Word and to get a clearer understanding of the Holy Bible. To this end there were distributed in the field, which field is the world, 4,167,407 bound books and 12,372,784 booklets.”

Why is this quote ironic?

Because this “clearer understanding” has since been judged to be misunderstanding and therefore not “clear” at all! Those 16 million bound books and booklets are now all out of date and out of favour. How many millions of hours were spent distributing them? How much time do you spend distributing books and booklets with a message that will soon be replaced due to ever changing “clearer understanding”?

Consider what things you ‘proved to yourself’, then ‘examine our history and see what we learn’ (w13 2/15 above) about WT teachings since then. As you do so note how conclusive, adamant and beyond question every doctrine is – right up until it is changed for a different but equally categorical statement.

(Mal 3:6 “I am Jehovah; I do not change”. Jas 1:17 “the Father… does not change like shifting shadows”) With new teachings on when the end is coming, on blood, 1914 and on the ‘generation’, reduced hours for pioneers, a different Faithful Slave definition, new donation arrangements, conventions where you watch films eating popcorn, new headquarters, a prominent Governing Body, new videos, cartoons and online TV shows, different ministry, new branding (JW.org), every meeting changed, no TMS, shorter Sunday talks, no DO’s, everything tablet based, different elder arrangement and appointments, no Kingdom Ministries, thinner and fewer magazines, new K. Hall designs, new songs, new music and a different Bible,

Are Jehovah’s Witnesses today the same religion that you were persuaded and baptised into? …

ORGAN TRANSPLANTS

1967-1980: prohibited as “cannibalism” WT 11/15/67 p.702

“Those who submit to such operations are thus living off the flesh of another human. That is cannibalistic“

*** w69 11/15 p. 701 Appreciating Jehovah’s Protection ***

A DIFFICULT DECISION

The day before surgery was due the chairman of the kidney transplant team came in and asked if I would agree to making the kidney I was relinquishing available to a young patient whose kidneys had failed. It appears that though the artery leading to my kidney was not functioning, the kidney itself was in good shape. The doctor was keen to have my kidney, but I explained to him that as one of Jehovah’s witnesses I must abide by what God’s law indicates in such a matter.

Later that day we informed him of our Biblical position with respect to human flesh and its use and quoted the relevant passages of God’s Word. He asked if I could retain a good conscience after denying my kidney to his young patient. In reply I pointed out that my kidney was not mine to give, and must be used in harmony with the will of the One who created it.

1971: They change your personality w71 3/1 p. 135 par. 10 How Is Your Heart?

One thing is sure, in losing their own hearts, they have had taken away from them the capacities of “heart” built up in them over the years and which contributed to making them who they were as to personality.

1975: They change your personality w75 9/1 p. 519 Insight on the News

Following a transplant, one mild-tempered man became aggressive like the donor. The problem may be largely or wholly mental. But it is of interest, at least, that the Bible links the kidneys closely with human emotions.

1980: – permitted WT 3/15/80 p.31

“Some Christians might feel that taking into their bodies any tissue or body part from another human is cannibalistic. “

Note: Why is it that “some Christians might feel” that way?

This is the Society’s regular method of introducing “new light” and dismissing “old light” as being the faulty personal opinions of members, instead of honestly admitting that this is what was previously taught.

For example, we see this again with the teaching of eating food with Lecithin after being told not to do so: (“some Christians have refused to eat any product having lecithin listed as an ingredient”).

The same is true for changed teachings on the 1914 rapture, 1925 earthly resurrection, black skin being a curse from God, removing tattoos, and also with the teaching of the Edenic snake having legs.

It is always “some people’s” mistaken thoughts, never the WT’s changing teachings that are at fault:

IS IT WRONG TO GIVE YOUR PET BLOOD?

YES – w64 2/15 p. 127 Questions From Readers

Would it be a violation of the Scriptures for a Christian to permit a veterinarian to give blood transfusions to a pet? By all means, to do so would be a violation of the Scriptures. … The baptized parent bears the responsibility, for that parent has authority over the child and over the pet and should control the entire matter. That is the parent’s obligation before God.—Eccl. 12:13, 14; Jas. 4:17.

What, then, of animal food? May it be used if there is reason to believe there is blood in it? As far as a Christian is concerned, the answer is No, on the basis of principles already mentioned.

I wonder if your pet can be disfellowshipped for killing another animal, or for fornication?

DID THE EDENIC SERPENT HAVE LEGS?

YES – w64 6/1 p. 352 Questions From Readers

It, therefore, is reasonable to conclude that before God cursed it the serpent possessed legs that elevated it above the ground.

NO – po (1974) chap. 5 p. 59 pars. 15-16 God’s “Eternal Purpose” in His Anointed One Is Formed “Upon your belly you will go and dust is what you will eat.” This was not a curse upon the whole serpent family. Seemingly God’s words were addressed to that one literal serpent.

NO – w07 6/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

The Bible does not specifically state that the animal used in tempting Eve had previously had legs but lost them. While the wording of Genesis 3:14 might lead some to think so, we need not necessarily conclude that prior to this curse, serpents had legs.

Note: Why were some “lead to think so“? It’s because they were previously told to think so.

What else might some “think“? …

ARE SAUNAS SHOWN IN A GOOD OR BAD LIGHT??

GOOD, BETHEL HAS ONE – yb93 p. 29 Jehovah’s Witnesses—1993 Yearbook Report

The new five-story wing of 77,000 square feet [7,200 sq m] consists of 39 Bethel rooms, also healthcare facilities, saunas, and storage areas.

BAD – w02 10/15 p. 11 par. 10 “Oppose the Devil”

In some countries, mixed bathing in saunas and hot springs is popular, not to mention nude bathing on some beaches. Just as in the early centuries of Christianity, Satan tries to entice God’s servants by means of worldly leisure activities.

BE CAREFUL! – g03 7/22 p. 22 The Sweat Bath—Then and Now

Saunas are becoming ever more popular throughout the world, especially in hotels and sports facilities. A word of caution: Unfortunately, in some countries the term “sauna” is used to designate certain places of prostitution. Hence, make sure that the sauna you visit is a real one, used for decent purposes.

GOOD – g06 4/06 p. 22 I Learned to Trust in God

Meeta immediately heated the sauna for me so that I could warm up. The next day she went to Tartu and contacted Linda Mettig. Linda urged me, “Let’s start preaching now and cover all of Estonia with the good news.”

BAD, CHURCHES HAVE THEM – g07 2/07 p. 6 What Is Happening to the Churches?

Church complexes may include restaurants, cafés, beauty salons, saunas, and sports facilities.

GOOD – g08 3/08 p. 25 In the Land of Thermal Baths

In the 19th century, spa culture was enriched when the Finnish steam bath, or sauna, became better known. In time, saunas, steam rooms, and cold-water pools were added to Budapest’s baths.

HEMOGLOBIN

Before 2000 not allowed — w92 10/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

Some Christians have occasionally checked the labels on packaged foods, since many governments require that ingredients be listed. And they may choose to do so regularly with any product that they have reason to believe might contain blood. It would be right, of course, to avoid products that listed things such as blood, blood plasma, plasma, globin (or globulin) protein, or hemoglobin (or globin) iron.

After 2000 Allowed — w00 6/15 p. 30 Questions From Readers

Depending on the condition of the patient, physicians might prescribe red cells, white cells, platelets, or plasma. Jehovah’s Witnesses hold that accepting whole blood or any of those four primary components violates God’s law.

Other medicines are coming along that involve (at least initially) extracts from blood components. Such therapies are not transfusions of those primary components; they usually involve parts or fractions thereof. Should Christians accept these fractions in medical treatment? We cannot say. The Bible does not give details, so a Christian must make his own conscientious decision before God.

Note: Prior to 2000, how many gave their lives for a teaching that later proved to be false?

DO WITNESS CHILDREN DIE FROM NOT TAKING BLOOD?

YES – Awake! 1994 May 22 p.2 Youths Who Put God First (3-15)

In former times thousands of youths died for putting God first. They are still doing it, only today the drama is played out in hospitals and courtrooms, with blood transfusions the issue.

YES – Awake! 1995 1/2 p. 13, 15

“I just want to live by Jehovah’s law on blood”… Joshua [15 years old] died on October 4, 1994.

NO – Watchtower 1998 December 1 p.14 Defending Our Faith

Jehovah’s Witnesses have been targets of false accusations – barefaced lies and twisted presentations of their beliefs... The accusation that numerous children of Jehovah’s Witnesses die each year as a result of refusing blood transfusions is totally unfounded.

(Note: w98 is here accusing the ’94 Awake of spreading “totally unfounded barefaced lies” and “twisted reasoning!” Jesus said “Every kingdom divided against itself comes to ruin” (Matthew 12:25). Go figure!)

YES – Anthony Morris III, Knoxville Tennessee Regional Convention Sunday 2016-07-03

Account of a boy, ‘Josh’, who was told he needs a blood transfusion or he’ll die. He refused it and died.

(Note: This may be referring to the Awake! 1995 article above.)

TAKING A ‘FIRM STAND’ ON THE MEDICAL USE OF BLOOD FRACTIONS/PROCEDURES

1940 Blood transfusions are acceptable – Consolation 1940 December p.19

1945 Blood transfusion are not acceptable – The Watchtower 1945 7th Jan p.201

1964 A JW doctor can transfuse a non JW patient – w64 11/15 p. 682 Employment and Your Conscience

(Can we accept clotting factors, albumin, hemoglobin, stored blood etc.?)

YES – w51 5/1 p. 144 Letter. (It’s a conscience issue)

NO – Awake! Sept. 8, 1956 Awake, p. 20

YES – The Watchtower Sept. 15, 1958, p. 575

– w58 8/1 QFR “An individual is not disfellowshipped for having voluntarily taken a blood transfusion”

NO – The Watchtower Sept. 15, 1961, p.558 para.16

YES – The Watchtower Nov 15, 1964, p.682 para.3

NO – Awake! Feb 22, 1975, p.30 “Hemophilia Treatment Hazard”

YES – The Watchtower Jun 15, 1978, p.30 “Are serum injections compatible with Christian belief?”

NO – Blood Brochure 1990 p.27 para.7

YES -The Watchtower, June 15, 2004, p.23 para.16

Note: Check with the HLC since the rules change very often without updates appearing in the WT. This flip-flopping is anything BUT a ‘firm stand’.

The WT even said you inherit the characteristics of the blood donor, who may be a criminal.

*** w61 9/15 p. 564 par. 16 Using Life in Harmony with the Will of God ***

Dr. Américo Valério, Brazilian doctor and surgeon for over forty years, agrees. “Moral insanity, sexual perversions, repression, inferiority complexes, petty crimes—these often follow in the wake of blood transfusion,” he says. Yet it is acknowledged in the public press that organizations whose blood supply is considered reliable obtain blood for transfusion from criminals who are known to have such characteristics. Certainly no one who is trying to depart from the works of the flesh and use his life in the way that God directs through his Word is going to lay himself open to such a ruinous future.

Sworn testimony submitted by the Society before the European Human Rights Commission Jul 3 1997: “As regards the alleged involvement of children, the [WatchTower Bible and tract Society] submits that children cannot become members of the association but only participate, together with their parents, in the religious activities of the community. In respect of the refusal of blood transfusion, the applicant association submits that there are no religious sanctions for a Jehovah’s Witness who chooses to accept blood transfusion and that, therefore, the fact that the religious doctrine of Jehovah’s Witnesses is against blood transfusion cannot amount to a threat to public health.”

Q. How many of Jehovah’s people have died because of refusing a blood fraction that was later permitted? w78 6/15 p. 25 par. 20 Firmly Resolved About Life And Blood

…the Scriptures show that because life is sacred a measure of bloodguilt could result even from causing someone’s death unintentionally.

[Picture on page 25] Avoid Bloodguilt from (1) eating blood, (2) sharing in bloodguilty organizations,

United In Worship p.155 par. 4

“The scriptures show that if we are part of any organization that is bloodguilty before God, we must sever our ties with it if we do not want to share in its sins. Such action deserves urgent attention.”

Learn about the blood doctrine and how it has caused many to give up their lives needlessly.

w90 9/15 p. 6 Get the Whole Truth!

“Not getting the whole truth may lead to regrettable consequences.”

QUOTE A DOCTOR FROM THE 1600’S AS AN AUTHORITY ON BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS

*** w61 9/15 p. 558 par. 18 Respect for the Sanctity of Blood ***

In harmony with this is a statement in the book Hemorrhage and Transfusion, by George W. Crile, A.M., M.D., who quotes a letter from Denys, French physician and early researcher in the field of transfusions.

(1973) Jehovah’s Witnesses Alternatives to Blood Transfusion p.516

Of interest in this connection is the statement found in the book Hemorrhage and Transfusion by George W. Crile A.M. M.D., who quotes a letter from Denys, French physician and pioneer in the field of blood transfusions. It states …

1985 Index 1930 – 1985

Six references to the w61 9/15 p. 558 (above)

Note: WT conceal the fact that Denys was a mediaeval doctor.

Wikipedia says “Jean-Baptiste Denys (1643 – 1704) was a French physician notable for having performed the first fully documented human blood transfusion”.

Would we recommend advice on any other medical issues from a doctor who lived some 350 years ago? This was a time when most doctors still thought that there were four fluids or ‘humors’ in the body; blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile, and illness resulted when you had too much of one humor.

DONATING BLOOD MAY MAKE YOU A MURDERER

*** w50 5/15 p. 159 Letter ***

It is freely acknowledged that the fluid from a person of one type of blood may kill a person of another type of blood. If, now, you donated your blood, and your type of blood killed the person receiving the transfusion, would you be guilty of murder? Or would the doctor or nurse that administered the transfusion be guilty of the murder? Would you not be at least an accessory to a murder?

Note: This is as true as saying that you left a pile of bricks and someone used it to smash a window, so really, you smashed that window. The lack of logic is astonishing.

MUST YOU READ FOOD LABELS FOR BLOOD PRODUCTS?

YES – w61 9/15 p. 557 par. 14 Respect for the Sanctity of Blood various tonics and tablets show on their labels that they contain blood fractions such as hemoglobin. So

it is necessary to be alert, to be acquainted with the practices in his community, to make reasonable inquiry at places where he buys meat and to read and understand the labels on packaged goods.

YES – (1973) Jehovah’s Witnesses Alternatives to Blood Transfusion p.515

Disrespect for God’s law forbidding consumption of blood has become so prevalent in the world that whole blood, blood plasma, and blood fractions are used in numerous products that are in common use… So it is necessary for one to be on the alert, to make reasonable enquiry at places where he buys meat and and to read the labels on packaged products.

NO – w92 10/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

It is not as if every Christian worldwide must study the labels and ingredients on all packaged food or should interrogate employees at restaurants or food stores.

WHEN DID BABYLON THE GREAT HOLD GODS PEOPLE CAPTIVE?

1. – w51 12/15 p. 748 par. 2 Release Under Way to the Ends of the Earth

Hence, when the visible organization appeared desolated beyond repair in 1918 and the power of great Babylon over her seemed unbreakable, Jehovah sent his Servant to the rescue.

1. – w54 12/15 p. 753 par. 17 Prospects of Fearers of Jehovah for 1955

Historically, this was true of the spiritual remnant in 1919. At that time they were lying in the darkness of bondage and oppression under the great organization of darkness, mystic Babylon.

1918 – w55 12/15 p. 749 par. 15 The Test That Leads to a Blessing

So the judgment began first with Jehovah’s witnesses after he came to his spiritual temple in 1918.

…Then especially they came into a captive, exiled condition like that of the ancient Israelites in pagan Babylon.

1914-1918 – w67 11/15 p. 686 par. 8 “Let Down Your Nets for a Catch”

But along came World War I, which was fought during 1914-1918 mostly by the nations of

Christendom. During this war these separated congregations of truly dedicated, baptized Christians came into bondage to Christendom. Thus, since Christendom is the most powerful part of religious Babylon the Great, they went into a captivity like that of the Jews who went into exile in ancient Babylon

1918 – w70 12/1 p. 726 par. 26 The Desolating of Christendom by the “Disgusting Thing”

Fleeing out of the antitypical unfaithful Jerusalem (Christendom) has been the right thing for them to do at any time since the end of World War I in 1918. Such fleeing out of Christendom has meant also fleeing out of Babylon the Great, for Christendom is also an integral part of religious Babylon the Great. And, as modern history shows, the anointed “chosen ones” of Jehovah God have been fleeing from bondage to Christendom and Babylon the Great since the year 1919

1918 – w92 3/15 p. 11 par. 18 Do Not Miss the Purpose of God-Given Freedom in 1918 Jehovah’s servants came into a measure of bondage to Babylon the Great.

2nd Cent CE – w2016 March p.29 par.1 When were God’s people held captive by Babylon the Great? That spiritual captivity lasted from the second century C.E. to 1919.

2nd (and 4th ?) centuries CE – w2016 Nov p.23 para.9 Called Out Of Darkness

In 313 C.E., this apostate form of Christianity was granted legal recognition by the pagan Roman Emperor Constantine. From that time on, Church and State began working hand in hand… Historians refer to pagan Rome as having been “Christianized” in the fourth century… They truly were in Babylonian captivity!

WHEN DID GODS PEOPLE ESCAPE CAPTIVITY TO BABYLON THE GREAT?

About 1914-1918 – w1931 5/15 p. 151

Babylon fell between 1914 and some time prior to 1918, and it was about that time that the Lord’s people were released from the captivity of Babylon.

1919 – w64 12/15 p. 748 par. 3 Why Not to Fear Those Who Kill the Body

They themselves had a deliverance from Babylon the Great in the year 1919 C.E.

1919 – w2016 Nov p.22 para.6 Called Out Of Darkness

For many years, this journal suggested that God’s modern-day servants entered into Babylonian captivity in 1918 and that they were released from Babylon in 1919. However, for the reasons that we shall outline in this article and in the one following, a reexamination of the subject was necessary

Before 1914 – w2016 Nov p.25 para.15 Called Out Of Darkness

What additional evidence is there that in the decades leading up to 1914, the anointed were actually breaking free from Babylon the Great, no longer being enslaved by her?

1914 – w2016 Nov p.30 para.14-15 Called Out Of Darkness (Same magazine)

Malachi 3:1-3 describes the time —from 1914 to early 1919—when the anointed “sons of Levi” would undergo a period of refinement… How exhilarating it is to have been released from captivity to Babylon the Great!

WHEN DID BABYLON THE GREAT FALL?

1878 – The Finished Mystery 1917, 1926 p. 273

The expression, ‘Babylon is fallen,’ indicates that at some time a sudden and utter rejection is to come upon Babylon, when all favor will forever cease, and when judgments will follow — just such a rejection as we have shown was due in 1878.

1881 – The Time is at Hand 1902, 1927, Chart on p. 219

1878 – w1923 3/15 p. 87

Well do our readers know that we believe Babylon fell in 1878, not used of the Lord in any specific sense since 1881, and forsaken entirely in 1918; so we have been waiting for the fire to consume her. The knowledge of her “fall” was a matter of faith for a time, but not so any more.

1914-1918 – w1931 5/15 p. 151

Babylon fell between 1914 and some time prior to 1918, and it was about that time that the Lord’s people were released from the captivity of Babylon.

IT’S FUTURE – w51 1/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

It arrives in our time when Great Babylon, the Devil’s organization, falls. So that “day” for Jehovah’s strange act, his battle of Armageddon, is still future.

1919 – w64 12/15 p. 748 par. 3 Why Not to Fear Those Who Kill the Body

They themselves had a deliverance from Babylon the Great in the year 1919 C.E.

1919 – w67 4/15 p. 246 The Most Urgent Warning Ever Given

In other words, Babylon the Great fell in 1919

1918-1919 – w68 1/1 p. 20 par. 51 How Great a Witness?

In that difficult period of 1918-1919, when Jehovah’s witnesses actually were in a captive state to Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, great Babylon fell by God’s judgment on her

1919 – w68 11/15 p. 697 par. 9 The Rebirth of the Happy Nation

Babylon the Great must have fallen or otherwise the remnant of the “nation whose God is Jehovah” could not have gone free in the year 1919.

1919 – w89 4/1 p. 21 par. 22 The Hour of God’s Judgment Has Arrived the renewed activity and spiritual prosperity that began in 1919 is clear evidence that then, in 1919, Babylon the Great experienced a downward tumble as viewed by Jehovah.

IT’S FUTURE – w12 6/15 p. 18 par. 17 Jehovah Reveals What “Must Shortly Take Place”

Soon Jehovah will cause the political elements of Satan’s system, as represented by the United Nations, to attack false religion. They will destroy her influence and devastate her riches. Such an event may have seemed unlikely just decades ago. Today, the harlot teeters on the back of the scarlet-colored beast. Even so, she will not slip slowly from her seat. Her tumble will be sudden and violent.—Rev. 18:7, 8, 15-19.

1919 – w13 7/15 p. 12 par. 11 “Look! I Am With You All the Days” By 1919, it became evident that Babylon the Great had fallen.

Notes:

The WT tries to teach that BTG falls twice, which is not what Revelation describes. WT teaches that BTG fell in 1919 and will yet ‘tumble‘ in the future. The scriptures are clear that this is impossible!

Rev 17 describes BTG riding the scarlet coloured wild beast (the UN) which then turns on her. – The UN did not exist in 1919 so could not turn on her.

Rev 17 then describes this harlot being eaten and completely burned with fire.

• After 1919 BTG still existed with power and influence. She was not completely burned at all.

Rev 18 continues the account saying ‘After this I saw another angel descending from heaven with great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his glory. And he cried out with a strong voice, saying: “She has fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen” ‘

• The fall of BTG is actually her being devoured and completely burned with fire, which had not happened by 1919.

To get around this problem there are some ridiculous ideas that BTG fell in 1919 in a symbolic or invisible way, and the devouring and burning is yet future at the hands of the UN. This is not at all what the simple sequence of Rev 17 and 18 describes.

Once again the WT chronology needs books to be written to explain what is actually a simple illustration in Revelation.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE BOOK STUDY?

IT IS FROM JEHOVAH – km 5/75 p. 2 Your Service Meetings

Show how congregation book study is valuable meeting that Jehovah has arranged.

MANY BENEFITS – km 12/78 p. 3 par. 3 Showing Appreciation for the Congregation Book Study

Consider some of the following benefits of the book study arrangement : (1) The groups are smaller, with better opportunities for close fellowship. (2) It is easier for all to comment freely…; we can get answers to questions on points not entirely clear from our personal study. (3) It provides a convenient center for organizing field service. (4) Conductors can get to know you better and are in a good position to assist with personal problems, give training in field service and help you with Scriptural questions.

BLESSED BY JEHOVAH – km 1/83 p. 7 par. 9 Assisting Others Through the Congregation Book Study Those who regularly attend the book study are convinced that it has Jehovah’s blessing

VITAL – km 7/91 p. 3 par. 1 Part 1—Responsibility of Study Conductor

The Congregation Book Study plays a vital role in the spiritual development of Jehovah’s people… The Congregation Book Study is a blessing to us

IMPORTANT – km 8/91 p. 7 par. 2 Part 2—Need to Prepare and Participate

Regularly attending the Congregation Book Study, therefore, should be an integral part of our personal program for acquiring wisdom… Active participation in the Congregation Book Study also plays an important part in our spiritual development.

FROM JEHOVAH – km 10/91 p. 8 par. 6 Part 4—Continue Building One Another Up

The Congregation Book Study is a loving provision from Jehovah that needs our full support.

A BLESSING – km 8/07 p. 8 par. 6 How the Congregation Book Study Arrangement Helps Us

What a blessing the Congregation Book Study is! This loving arrangement from Jehovah helps us maintain our sure spiritual footing during the challenging times in which we live.

NO LONGER NEEDED – km 1/11 p. 3 par. 3 Help for Families

What Is the Purpose of the Family Worship Evening? In January 2009, the Congregation Book Study began to be held on the same evening as the Theocratic Ministry School and Service Meeting. One reason for this adjustment was to give families an opportunity to fortify their spirituality by scheduling a specific evening each week for family worship. Each family was encouraged to move its family study to the night formerly used for the book study.

DO DEAD ANOINTED COMMUNICATE BIBLE TRUTHS?

YES – w 1917 11/1 p. 6161, (reprints)

Hence our dear Pastor, now in glory, is without doubt, manifesting a keen interest in the harvest work, and is permitted by the Lord to exercise some strong influence thereupon. (Revelation 14:17) It not unreasonable to conclude that he has been privileged to do, in connection with the harvest work, things which he could not do while with us. Although we recognize that the Lord is the great Master and Director of the harvest, yet we recognize that would privilege the saints beyond the veil to have a part in the work on this side; and thus all the saints, both in heaven and upon earth, are now given the honor of concluding the work on this side, preparatory to the full establishment of the kingdom of glory.

NO – Jehovah 1934 p. 191

No one of the temple company will be so foolish as to conclude that some brother (or brethren) at one time amongst them, and who has died and gone to heaven, is now instructing the saints on earth and directing them as to their work.

YES – w2007 1/1 p. 28

What, then, can we deduce from the fact that one of the 24 elders identifies the great crowd to John? It seems that resurrected ones of the 24-elders group may be involved in the communicating of divine truths today.

IS OUR MESSAGE DIFFERENT FROM JESUS’ MESSAGE?

NO – Galatians 1:8 “However, even if we or an angel out of heaven were to declare to you as good news something beyond what we declared to you as good news, let him be accursed.”

YES – Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education p.279 para.2

“Note, however, that the message that Jesus said would be proclaimed in our day goes beyond what his followers preached in the first century.”

ROMANS 13:1 – WHO ARE THE “SUPERIOR AUTHORITIES?”

1886 – Earthly governments – Divine Plan of the Ages, 1886, p.266

1889 – Earthly governments – Time Is At Hand, 1889, p.81

1929 – God and Christ – Watchtower 1929 Jun 1 p.163

1932 – God and Christ – Vindication, Vol. 3, 1932, p.13

1943 – God and Christ – The Truth Shall Make You Free, 1943, p.312

1951 – God and Christ – w51 1/1 p. 21 “a heavy weight was lifted from his people”!

1959 – God and Christ – Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Divine Purpose, p.91

1963 – Earthly political governments – WT 1/1/63 p.31

1975 – Earthly political governments – 1975 Yearbook, p.238

1980 – Earthly political governments – WT 5/15/80 p.4

Note: Why have the churches always had the correct understanding of Rom 13:1 and never once wavered in their view, while Gods one and only true religion (WT) changed it from being right, to being wrong?

Prior to the F&DS arriving in 1919 CT Russell got it right, then after the F&DS appeared they got it wrong! It finally flipped back to the pre-F&DS teaching after over 30 years of being wrong. As usual, each WT change was backed by “conclusive scriptural proof” and “new light”.

WT went so far as to boldly describe the current teaching as being a ‘false teaching’! (w52 7/15 p. 426).

“…false teachings such as that the political powers of this wicked world were the “higher powers” of Romans 13:1 who must be obeyed even though they contradicted God’s expressed commandments…”

Gal 2:18 warns: “If I rebuild something that I tore down, I demonstrate that I am a wrongdoer.” (ISV)

The WT even tried to defend this 30 year long false teaching, saying that it was a good thing!

– w96 May 1 p.13 – “In 1929, at a time when laws of various governments were beginning to forbid things that God commands or demand things that God’s laws forbid, it was felt that the higher powers must be Jehovah God and Jesus Christ… Looking back, it must be said that this view of things, exalting as it did the supremacy of Jehovah and his Christ, helped God’s people to maintain an uncompromisingly neutral stand throughout this difficult period. [World war II]”

*** w04 5/15 p. 14 par. 17 ***

“You have noted the clarification of Bible truths and have witnessed the progressive refinement of the visible part of God’s organization. (Isaiah 60:17 – ‘Instead of the copper I will bring in gold…’)”

If clarification of truth is likened to improving building materials, what materials were used for Rom 13:1 in 1929 when the teaching went from being correct to being incorrect? Did we replace copper with more inferior wood? How does Pr 4:18 (light gets brighter) explain this light which got darker for 30 years?

How can we be sure that the brighter light we get today is not similarly a backwards step?

What is the term that the WT uses for other religious organisations which teach falsehoods?

It is absolute nonsense if a true teaching becomes ‘old light’ only to become ‘new light’ again afterwards! Russell taught relative subjection, only for it to become unscriptural, then re-taught as true again. To defend this flip flop the WT craftily misrepresented what Russell taught, stating that he taught unqualified obedience, which he did not.

• w1916 17/5, Charles T. Russell wrote the following in the article, “Militarism and Conscience”: “While Christians are enjoined to be subject to the “Powers that be”—the kings, governors, magistrates, etc. – nevertheless this is not to be understood as meaning the renouncement of our fidelity to the King of kings and Lord of lords… The Christian’s position is, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s but unto God the things that are God’s. Whenever Caesar and his laws conflict with the divine requirements, all true soldiers of the cross are left no alternative.”

The WT dishonestly distorted what Russell taught, in an effort to look less culpable:

• w72 11/1 p. 644 Be Big Enough to Admit a Mistake

“Romans 13:1 had been construed to mean that the governments of the world must be given unqualified obedience, the Witnesses interpreted the ‘higher powers’ or “superior authorities” there mentioned as applying to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. However, a closer examination of the context revealed that Romans 13:1 does indeed refer to the political governments of this world. But by comparing this scripture with others, such as Acts 5:29, which states, “We must obey God as ruler rather than men,” it was seen that the “subjection” mentioned at Romans 13:1 must be a relative subjection, not an unqualified one. That is, Christians are to be in subjection to the governments of this world so long as these do not ask Christians to go contrary to God’s laws. When such governments do, then the Christian must obey the higher law.”

So who do these teachings come from? Are they from Jehovah or is it just ‘the Witnesses’ interpreting things (above)? The answer depends on what is most convenient for the WT at any particular time.

WHAT IS MORE IMPORTANT, THE SYMBOL OF SOMETHING OR THE THING ITSELF?

NOT THE SYMBOL – w62 6/1 pp. 329-330 par. 3 Why Be Baptized?

Being a symbol of something else, it obviously is not as important as what it symbolizes

NOT THE SYMBOL – w07 1/1 p. 23 par. 12 “You Must Become Nothing but Joyful”

Then he had the goat led off into the wilderness to carry away the nation’s sins in a symbolic way

NOT THE SYMBOL – w03 2/15 p. 17 par. 1 What Does the Lord’s Evening Meal Mean to You?

The Memorial emblems of unleavened bread and red wine symbolize Christ’s sinless body and his shed blood—the only sacrifice that can redeem mankind from inherited sin and death

NOT THE SYMBOL – w00 1/15 p. 16 par. 9 “Desirable Things” Are Filling Jehovah’s House

Since Jesus’ human flesh was a barrier, it was well symbolized by the curtain that separated the Holy from the Most Holy in God’s ancient temple.

NOT THE SYMBOL – w99 3/1 p. 19 par. 7 Jehovah’s Blessing on Our “Land”

Just as the symbolic altar is in the very center of the spiritual temple, Christ’s ransom sacrifice is central to pure worship.

NOT THE SYMBOL – w91 2/15 p. 12 par. 10 A Corresponding Ransom for All

Paul could thus write that “it is not possible for the blood of bulls and of goats to take sins away.” Such sacrifices serve simply as a pictorial, or symbolic, covering in anticipation of the ransom that was to come.

NOT THE SYMBOL – w69 12/1 p. 716 par. 16 Final Woes to Enemies of Peace with God It would result in death as symbolized by shed blood.

NOT THE SYMBOL – w65 3/15 p. 166 par. 9 Who Will Be Resurrected—Why?

the symbolic “lake of fire and sulphur”

NOT THE SYMBOL – w65 12/15 pp. 742-743 par. 7 Neglecting the House of the Creator… The presence of Jehovah God at this temple was symbolized by… the Shekinah light

NOT THE SYMBOL – w62 7/1 p. 395 par. 17 Fellow Rulers with the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah” He did bind his kingly claims to a symbolic vine, a spiritual vine, namely, God’s kingdom.

NOT THE SYMBOL – w59 3/15 p. 180 Part 10—”Your Will Be Done on Earth” symbolic Serpent, Satan the Devil,

NOT THE SYMBOL – w55 11/15 p. 689 par. 6 “Jehovah Is in His Holy Temple” Jehovah’s presence in his holy temple was symbolized by the ark of his covenant

NOT THE SYMBOL – w52 2/15 p. 105 par. 14 The Memorial—Are You Entitled to Partake? The rock from which the Israelites drank merely pictured or symbolized Christ

But when it comes to ‘blood’ the opposite is said, that the symbol (blood) is more important than the life it represents:

• w11 11/1 p. 17 How Do God’s Laws Benefit Us?

Blood is sacred because God says that it represents the life, or soul, of a creature

• w78 6/15 pp. 29-30 Questions From Readers

The life-representing blood did not belong to Noah and his family but belonged to the Life-Giver.

• w71 9/1 p. 531 par. 6 Joyous Results of Maintained Integrity

So she refused to permit transfusions to be given… “I would rather die faithful to Jehovah God than to violate his command in order to live a little while longer.” This girl did die…

• yb90 p. 44 1990 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Possibly she would die. Yet Mary would answer: “I would prefer to die than to take blood.”

• yb75 p. 224 Part 3—United States of America

Darrell and Rhoda Labrenz correctly viewed blood transfusion as a violation of God’s law

• bh chap. 13 p. 130 pars. 14-15 A Godly View of Life

Suppose doctors say that he must have a blood transfusion or he will die… Would a Christian break God’s law just to stay alive a little longer in this system of things?

WORSHIPPING JESUS?

Up to 1954 “YES” – Pastor C.T.Russell taught that Jesus was to be worshiped: — w1880 March p.83 “To worship Christ in any form cannot be wrong … “

— Zion’s Watch Tower 1898 Jul 15 p.216

“Question. The fact that our Lord received worship is claimed by some to be an evidence that while on earth he was God the Father disguised in a body of flesh and not really a man. Was he really worshiped, or is the translation faulty?

Answer. Yes, we believe our Lord Jesus while on earth was really worshiped, and properly so. … It was proper for our Lord to receive worship in view of his having been the only begotten of the Father and his agent in the creation of all things, including man.”

Judge J.F.Rutherford also taught that Jesus was to be worshiped:

— Watchtower 1939 Nov 15 p.339

“Jehovah God commands all to worship Christ Jesus because Christ Jesus is the express image of his Father, Jehovah, and because he is the Executive Officer of Jehovah always carrying out Jehovah’s purpose (Heb.:3–6).”

Nathan Knorr continued the policy of teaching that Jesus was to be worshiped by all:

— Watchtower 1945 Oct 15 p.313

“Since Jehovah God now reigns as King by means of his capital organization Zion, then whosoever would worship Him must also worship and bow down to Jehovah’s Chief One in that capital organization, namely, Christ Jesus, his Co-regent on the throne of The Theocracy.”

In 1945 Knorr amended the Watchtower Charter. Included within the new Charter is the statement that the purpose of the Watchtower Society is to promote the worship of Jehovah and Jesus. This charter is a legal document that continues to be the Watchtower Charter to this day.

From 1954 “NO” –

WT 1954 Jan 1 p.31 Questions from readers: “Should we worship Jesus?”—G. B., Ethiopia.

…the answer to the above question must be that no distinct worship is to be rendered to Jesus Christ now glorified in heaven. Our worship is to go to Jehovah God.

*** Hebrews 1:6 *** [As published in New World Translation, 1961, p.1293]

6 But when he again brings his Firstborn into the inhabited earth, he says: “And let all God’s angels worship him.”

*** Hebrews 1:6 *** [as published in New World Translation, 1971, p.1293]

6 But when he again brings his Firstborn into the inhabited earth, he says: “And let all God’s angels do obeisance to him.”

WHO SHOULD BE THE FOCUS OF OUR MINISTRY?

For whose name would Christians be hated? (Matt. 10:22)

By whose name were people healed? (Acts 3:6; Acts 4:10)

By whose name were demons expelled? (Luke 10:17; Acts 16:18)

By whose name would people receive Holy Spirit? (John 14:26)

In whose name would people pray to God? (John 15:16)

By whose name would people be named? (Isa. 62:2; Acts 11:26)

By whose name would people be reconciled to God? (Rom. 5:10; 2 Cor. 5:18)

By whose name would people be forgiven their sins? (Matt. 26:28; Acts 2:38; Eph. 1:7)

In whose name would people be judged? (John 5:27)

By whose name would people be resurrected (John 5:28)

In whose name would people be baptized? (Acts 2:38, 8:16, 10:48, 19:5, 22:16)

In whose name were people to put faith? (John 2:23)

In whose name was Saul/Paul commissioned to preach? (Acts 9:14-16)

For whose name would Christians be reproached? (1 Peter 4:14)

In whose name were Christians to gather together? (Matt. 18:20)

For whose name would Christians make sacrifices? (Matt. 19:29)

For whose name would Christians be persecuted and killed? (Luke 21:12,16,17)

In whose name will every knee in heaven and on earth bend? (Philippians 2:10) In whose name would people be declared righteous? (1 Cor. 6:11)

For some inexplicable reason, the name ‘Jehovah’ is notable by its absence in every scripture!

WHO’S WITNESSES SHOULD WE BE (ISA 43:10)?

w13 3/15 p. 24 par. 2 Honor Jehovah’s Great Name

“Jehovah’s Witnesses, on the other hand, are proud to bear God’s name and to glorify it.”

Acts 11:26 – “the disciples were by divine providence called Christians.”

Matthew 10:18 – “…for my sake, for a witness to them and the nations.” [JESUS]

Mark 13:9 – “…before governors and kings for my sake, for a witness to them.” [JESUS]

Luke 24:47, 48 “and on the basis of [JESUS] name, repentance for forgiveness of sins would be preached in all the nations… You are to be witnesses of these things”

Acts 1:8 – “You will be witnesses of me…” [JESUS]

John 1:15 – “John bore witness about him…” [JESUS]

John 5:37 – “the Father who sent me has himself borne witness about me.” [JESUS]

John 8:18 – “the Father who sent me bears witness about me.” [JESUS]

John 15:26,27 – “…will bear witness about me; and YOU in turn, are to bear witness.” [JESUS] Acts 4:17,18 – …upon the basis of this (Jesus) …. upon the basis of the name of Jesus.

Acts 10:39 – “And we are witnesses of all the things he [Jesus] did…” Acts 10:43 – “To him [Jesus] all the prophets bear witness…” Acts 13:31 – “who are now his (Jesus’) witnesses to the people.

Acts 22:15 – “because you are to be a witness for him [Jesus] to all men…”

Acts 22:20 – “……the blood of Stephen your [Jesus’] witness was being spilled…”

Acts 23:11 – “….. a thorough witness on the things about me in Jerusalem…” [JESUS]

Acts 26:16 -“I [Jesus]..choose you as an attendant and a witness...respecting me” [JESUS]

1 Corinthians 1:6 – “even as the witness about the Christ...”

Galatians 1:6-8 – …if we or an angel out of heaven were to declare to you as good news something beyond the good news [about Christ] we declared to you, let him be accursed.

1. Tim. 2:6 – “..what is to be witnessed to at its own particular times.”
2. Timothy 1:8 – “…of the witness about our Lord.. [Christ]”

1 John 5:9 – “the witness God gives…the fact that he has borne witness concerning his Son.”

Revelation 1:9 – “….for speaking about God and bearing witness to Jesus.”

Revelation 3:8 – ….”and you kept my word and did not prove false to my name.” [JESUS]

Revelation 12:17 – “…and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus.”

Revelation 17:6 – “…and with the blood of the witnesses of Jesus.”

Revelation 19:10 -“…the work of witnessing to Jesus…. bearing witness to Jesus.” Revelation 20:4 – “… for the witness they bore to Jesus.”

Note:

Isa 43:10 “‘You are my witnesses,’ declares Jehovah” is a reminder about what God had done and will do. Vs 1: God reminds them that he bought them and they belong to him. (Jacob and Israel)

Vs 2: God promises to protect them

Vs 3: God reminds them that Egypt was their ransom

Vs 4: God tells them they are precious in His eyes

Vs 5-7: God assures them of his continued being with them

Vs 8-9: Now, here’s the key: God issues a challenge to the nations and asks them to produce THEIR witnesses to see who is right: “Let all the nations assemble in one place,…”

“Let them present their witnesses to prove themselves right”

Vs 10: God then says to the Israelites, “YOU are my witnesses.”

This wasn’t about naming a group of people. This was about who is right and who is wrong. Who could produce witnesses for themselves that could truthfully claim to have been a saviour, protector, etc. This was God’s challenge to the nations, and He names the Israelites as HIS witnesses to that fact.

Then Isa 62:2 adds “The nations will see your righteousness, O woman, And all kings your glory.

And you will be called by a new name, Which Jehovah’s own mouth will designate“

This was fulfilled in Acts 11:26 – “the disciples were by divine providence called Christians.”

WT DEFINITION OF ‘APOSTASY’

it-1 p. 127 Apostasy – What characteristics identify apostates as distinct from true Christians?

Among the varied causes of apostasy set forth in apostolic warnings were: … the heeding of the “counterfeit words” of false teachers and “misleading inspired utterances”…

Apostates often seek to make others their followers. (Ac 20:30; 2Pe 2:1, 3) Such ones willfully abandoning the Christian congregation thereby become part of the “antichrist.” (1Jo 2:18, 19) As with the apostate Israelites, destruction is likewise foretold for apostates from the Christian congregation.

ORGANIZATION – ITS IMPORTANCE

1. – No organization today. WT 1893 p.266
2. – Not part of the Lord’s plan. WT 12/1/1894 p. 384
3. – Beware of organization. WT 9-15-1895 p.216

1955 – Respect the organization. Qualified to be Ministers, 1955, p.380

1957 – You must have obedience to organization. WT 5/1/57 p.274

1972 – Submit to headship. (Governing Body) WT 12-15-72 p.755

1983 – Essential part of the Lord’s plan. WT 2/15/83 p.12

2012 – Bible points to organized worship as the kind acceptable to God. Awake! 2012 Sept. p.21 2015 – Saying there is no organization is Satanic – Talk number 3 outline 9/15

CAN CHRISTIANS USE A PIÑATA?

NO – g71 6/22 p. 24 The Piñata and Its Use

NO – w00 12/15 p. 3 Christmas Customs—Are They Christian?

YES – g03 9/22 p. 24 The Piñata—An Ancient Tradition

VACCINATIONS

1921 – “Vaccination never prevented anything and never will, and is the most barbarous practice”

– Golden Age Oct 12 1921 p.17

1923 – “Vaccination, summed up, is the most unhygienic, barbaric, filthy, abhorrent, and most dangerous system of infection known. Its vile poison taints, corrupts, and pollutes the blood of the healthy, resulting in ulcers, syphilis, scrofula, erysipelas, tuberculosis, cancer, tetanus, insanity, and death”

– Golden Age Jan 1 1923 pg 214

1929 – “Avoid serum inoculations as they pollute the blood stream with their filthy pus.”

– Golden Age 11/12/1929 p.107

1931 – Prohibited as being a “direct violation of the everlasting covenant.”

“Quite likely there is some connection between the violation of blood [vaccines] and the spread of demonism”

– Golden Age 2/4/31 p.293

1934 – “It is better to be jailed 12 times instead of let your child be vaccinated”

– Golden Age March 28, 1934

Permitted in September 1945 Consolation– “When we lose our life because we refuse inoculations, that does not bear witness as a justification of Jehovah’s name. God never issued regulations which prohibit the use of drugs, inoculations or blood transfusions. It is an invention of people, who, like the Pharisees, leave Jehovah’s mercy and love aside.“

Since 1952 permitted. WT 12/15/52 p.764 and AWAKE! 8/22/65 p.20

IS IT CORRECT TO USE THE PHRASE “HUMAN BEINGS”?

YES – w57 1/15 pp. 46-47 Monotheism Preceded Polytheism as human beings became civilized…

NO – w58 12/15 p. 764 Questions From Readers in the light of what is above said we trust you will understand why our publications have restricted the

expression [“beings”] to Jehovah God.

YES – w94 8/1 Jehovah Is Reasonable! Question 15 (a)

What examples show that Jehovah has been willing to listen and respond to human beings?

DID SATAN PHYSICALLY TAKE JESUS TO THE TEMPLE WHEN TEMPTING HIM?

YES – w55 9/15 p. 569 par. 28 Part 2—What Do the Scriptures Say About “Survival After Death”?

Satan the Devil tried to induce Jesus to perform a levitation to mystify the Jews and win them over at the temple of Jerusalem. On a temple battlement the ruler of the demons said to Jesus: “If you are a son of God, hurl yourself down from here…”

NO – w61 3/1 – we must reasonably conclude that Satan did not literally, bodily, physically, take Jesus ‘along into the holy city’ and station him ‘upon the battlement of the temple.’

NO – g00 10/8 p. 19 “Extreme Sports”—Should You Take the Risk? likely in a vision, the Devil tempted him to throw himself off the battlement of the temple

WE DON’T KNOW – w2016 March p. 32 Put simply, we cannot be certain whether Jesus actually stood in the temple or he did so only by means of a vision.

CHRISTMAS IS…

PAGAN – w1881 December No.6 p.6

… pagan priests became Christian priests and the pagan holidays came to be called by Christian names-Christmas being one of these holidays kept sacred to the memory of a great Goddess–since called the celebration of Jesus’ birth though actually nearly three months astray.

HEATHEN – w1883 December Vol.5 No.5 p.3 When Was Jesus Born?

“Christmas day”, reckoned the anniversary of Jesus birth (Jan 1 representing the date of his circumcision eight days after) is mid-winter, and evidently does not comport well with the account of the shepherds being out with their flocks. It is supposed by some to have been placed December 25 in order to the better take the place of and transform an old heathen festival at that date, into a Christ-commemorating one.

A TIME TO SELL CARDS – w1891 October Vol.10 No.10 R1339 – “CHRISTIAN HOME EMBELLISHMENTS” While passing through London we noticed some very beautiful Motto Cards suitable for the adornment of the walls of Christian homes, and, thinking the prices cheaper than in the United States, we purchased some, purposing to advise the TOWER readers and to supply orders if any desired them…

The prices include postage: 11. CHRISTMAS CARDS (assorted, illuminated) $.05 & $.10

A GOOD TIME TO GIVE WT PUBLICATIONS – w1917 12/1 [6130]

I was glad to see your recommendation that all the brethren give a copy of Volume Seven to their relatives and friends this Christmas… that would mean at least 300,000 copies of THE FINISHED MYSTERY distributed this Christmas time!

GOOD – w1918 8/15 p. 249 [6311] The Cross Must Precede The Crown

“Presents are not receivable, except at Christmas time, when the privilege is graciously granted without limitation. I express my deep gratitude for those sent, just the same… Your Brother Joseph F. Rutherford”

GOOD – w1919 1/15 [6381]

“my heartfelt thanks for the great love bestowed upon us and manifested in the numerous Christmas presents which I and my associates have received, as well as cards, letters and messages of love. May the Lord bless you one and all! … Your brother and servant J.F.Rutherford”

FROM JESUS – w1919 2/15 [6393] Christmas Joy – Our Incarcerated Brethren

More than 150 prisoners in the Castle had nothing for Christmas, and so our brethren got a list of them from the officers, and out of their own abundance made up a little Christmas package for each of the unfortunates. Even the officers were so pleased that they were heard to say, “Never was anything like that done at this place before.” And so we can truly say, the Lord was in the prison that Christmas.

BRINGS BLESSINGS – w1921 6/1 p.169 par.1

Who has not seen a wearied and perhaps weeping child fall asleep on Christmas Eve, howbeit hoping for the blessings of the morrow?

WORTHY OF A POEM – w1923 12/15 p.383 “CHRISTMAS”

SOMETHING FOR ALL CHRISTIANS – w1926 12/15 p.371

With the coming of the Christmas season all Christians have something to say about Jesus.

CATHOLIC AND DEMONIC – Golden Age 1927 Dec 14 p.179

We see now that Christ had nothing at all to do with the institution of “Christmas” and the question arises, Shall we continue to observe a Roman Catholic holiday and bow the knee to Rome? … The fact that the world, the flesh, and the Devil are in favor of its perpetuation and observance, is a final and conclusive argument against its celebration by those who are dedicated wholly to the service of Jehovah.

HEATHEN – w1942 11/15 p.349 Is Christmas Christian?

Jesus Christ nowhere instructed his disciples to celebrate his human birthday on either the legitimate day or any fictitious date, and for religionists to engage in such a celebration on a religious fixed date , which date is furthermore sacred to a heathen false god, is a case of adding to the word of God.

PAGAN – w50 12/15 p. 504 This Masquerade Called Christmas

Let the Kellys and the Joneses and all the other sincere, honest and upright people who have slavishly celebrated the pagan holiday called Christmas now make a break for freedom.

MURDEROUS – w54 12/15 p. 743 Origin of Christmas and Its Spirit

Is the spirit of God to be found in the practice of exchange handed down by demon-worshiping pagans? … Is it found in the glittering balls of gold that pay homage to Balder, god of the ever-mystical sun? …Is it found in the gluttony, drunkenness, lasciviousness and murder committed on this day called “Christmas”?

Note: So after understanding that Christmas was pagan in 1881, they went on to celebrate it for 36 years from 1891 until 1927, through the period that Jesus supposedly approved and then cleansed them.

WHAT ARE THE PLEIADES (CONSTELLATION)?

THRONE OF GOD – w1895 May 15 – R1814 p.121

Our solar system of planets is also found to be revolving together around some other great center; and far beyond the farthest limits of our system, by the aid of the telescope, other suns and systems are discerned, all presumably revolving with ours around some common center, the group Pleiades. And the reasonable suggestion has been made that that center may be the heaven of heavens, the highest heaven, the throne of God.

HEAVEN – w1896 Dec 1st R2075 p.291

The most reasonable suggestion we know of is that offered in MILLENNIAL DAWN, Vol. III., page 327; namely, that heaven is located in or in connection with the heavenly group, Pleiades.

CENTRE OF THE UNIVERSE – w1915 June 15 R5710 p.185

Science declares that there is a far mightier Center, around which these countless millions of suns revolve, accompanied by their planets and satellites. This great Center seems to be associated with the Pleiades, particularly with Alcyone, the central star of this renowned group.

JEHOVAH’S THRONE – w1917 Sept 1 6133 para 11 The Bond Of Perfection scientists tell us that they are able to measure the distance to the sun, and even to the Pleiades, supposed to be the throne of Jehovah.

WHERE THE ANOINTED WILL GO – Watchtower Nov 1 1920 pg 334

“Someone asked me the other day: Suppose you should be here in 1925 what would you do? I said, I believe I will be home in the Pleiades before then .”

CENTRE OF THE UNIVERSE AND JEHOVAH’S THRONE – w1924 1/1 p.8 Prayer Meeting Text Comments The group of the Pleiades is supposed to be the center of the celestial universe, the place of the throne of Jehovah, from which supreme authority is exercised.

JEHOVAH’S THRONE – w1925 April 15 – p.115 para. 9

It is estimated that light travels 186,000 miles per second; and that the Pleiades are 120 light years of 365 days each from the earth. It is understood that the Pleiades mark the throne of Jehovah, from which he rules his universe.

(NOTE: National Radio Astronomy Observatory in 2014 said “Astronomers at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory have used a worldwide network of radio telescopes to find the distance to the Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters. The result of their work is a distance to the Pleiades of 443 lightyears, accurate, the astronomers said, to within one percent.”)

THRONE OF GOD – Reconciliation (1928) pg 14

“the Pleiades [constellation] is the place of the eternal throne of God.”

PROOF THAT THE PYRAMIDS WERE DESIGNED BY SATAN – w1928 11/15 p.344 para.39

Further (as stated in Scripture Studies, Vol. 3, p. 321), using the ascending passage as though it were a telescope, it is claimed that the Pleiades was exactly in line with the ascending passage at the same time and that therefore the ascending passage pointed toward Jehovah… If the above calculations are correct, then such is further corroborative proof that the Devil himself superintended the building of the pyramid of Gizeh.

NOT THE CENTRE OF THE UNIVERSE, NOT GOD’S THRONE – w53 11/15 p. 703 Questions From Readers

Pleiades can no longer be considered the center of the universe and it would be unwise for us to try to fix God’s throne as being at a particular spot in the universe.

AN UNSCRIPTURAL PAGAN NAME – w53 11/15 p. 703 Questions From Readers

The names Pleiades, Orion and Arcturus are not the names given in the Bible… English translators have merely adopted these pagan names given to constellations or star groups and have inserted them in their translations in the place of the original names that appear in the Hebrew Scriptures.

CAN DISFELLOWSHIPPED PARTAKE OF THE EMBLEMS?

NO – w56 6/15 p. 383 Questions From Readers

A disfellowshiped person is no member of Jehovah’s congregation and may not be served the emblems by those serving at the celebration of the Lord’s evening meal.

YES – w58 8/1 p. 478 Questions From Readers

It is not for you or anyone serving the Memorial emblems to act as the judge, but to allow the emblems to go to anyone in the audience as these are passed along in the normal manner of letting each one have the opportunity to partake.

NO – w60 4/1 p. 224 Questions From Readers

Disfellowshiped persons are not welcome. Should they attend and partake, they would not be counted.

YES – w76 2/1 p. 76 “Keep Doing This in Remembrance of Me”

Those counted as partakers are those known as faithful, baptized servants of God. We do not invite disfellowshiped persons to attend. But if such a one is present, there is no reason to be disturbed if he is seated in a row with others and proceeds to partake of the emblems.

Note: If since 1976 a disfellowshipped person can eat the most important Lords Evening Meal with other anointed, does that violate 1Co 5:11 “But now I am writing YOU to quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother…, not even eating with such a man“?

At the same time, a disfellowshipped person cannot eat with his own family.

CAN SAY “HELLO” TO A DISFELLOWSHIPPED MEMBER?

1970 NO – WT 6/1/70 p.352

1972 NO – Organization for Kingdom Preaching…, 1972, p.172

1974 YES – WT 8/1/74 pp.464,465

1974 YES – WT 74 8/1 p. 471 par. 21 – 22

1981 NO – WT 9/15/81 p.25

2005 EXPULSION IS CRUEL – w05 9/1 p. 25 Mennonites Search for Bible Truth

Word of these conversations soon reached the church preachers, who threatened Johann’s family with expulsion if they did not stop… How did the elders react? They expelled them for studying the Bible! This was a cruel blow indeed.

2010 JESUS DID NOT SHUN – w10 8/15 p. 7 Questions From Readers

“As this account clearly shows, Jesus did not shun sinners. He did good to them.”

2013 SHUNNING IS BULLYING – jw.org Feb 2013:

2013 NO – WT 6/15/2013 p.28

2016 SHUNNING IS EVIL – – WT 2016/02 p.23 para. 9

In South America, Olga proved loyal to God by showing respect for her husband even under trying circumstances. For years, he expressed annoyance at her for being one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He abused her emotionally, insulted her, refused to speak to her, and threatened to take the children and leave her. But Olga did not return evil for evil.

Note the forked tongue: *** g 7/09 p. 29 Is It Wrong to Change Your Religion? ***

“God allows each person the freedom to choose how he or she will respond. No one should be forced to worship in a way that he finds unacceptable or be made to choose between his beliefs and his family.”

Note: If a disfellowshipped person lives at home God’s law doesn’t apply, but if they move into a house across the street, they must be treated as a dead person.

DISFELLOWSHIPPING FOR ADULTERY?

YES – w51 4/15 pp. 239-240 par. 22 “Let Marriage Be Honorable Among All”

God’s Word orders the disfellowshiping of such immoral person as an expression of His judgment against him.

DECIDED BY THE PARTNER – w56 10/1 p. 594 par. 30 Marriage Obligations and Divorce

If the innocent one does not forgive the offending mate, then the offender must be disfellowshiped by the congregation… If, say, the husband forgives the wife, he continues to give her the marriage due, trusting in God to forgive her. Then there is no reason for the wife, whom he treats as “one flesh” with him, to be exposed and punished by the Christian congregation with disfellowshiping.

YES – w57 11/1 p. 667 par. 6 Safeguarding the Heart with Wisdom

Anyone committing adultery does not have a good motive toward God or the one with whom the immorality is committed: “Anyone committing adultery with a woman is in want of heart; he that does it is bringing his own soul to ruin. A plague and dishonor he will find, and his reproach itself will not be blotted out.” (Prov. 6:32, 33) Besides bringing reproach on himself, he brings reproach on God’s congregation and must therefore be expelled, be disfellowshiped.

IF THEY ARE UNREPENTANT – w59 9/1 p. 542 Questions From Readers

All sex relations between unmarried persons are condemned as fornication and sex relations between married persons and those not their mates as adultery. For dedicated Christians the penalty for either of these is disfellowshiping from the congregation or at least a period of probation if there is heartfelt repentance.

DECIDED BY CERTAIN RULES – w60 12/1 pp. 726-727 pars. 14-15 Separation and Divorce

These responsible servants of the congregation may take into consideration the repentance and sorrow of the guilty one and whether it was the first offense, and they could mercifully respect the innocent mate’s forgiveness of the repentant, converting mate; and in order to preserve the spiritual oneness of the married couple, they would not disfellowship the adulterous one. They would hold the innocent mate responsible to enforce a probation upon the forgiven sinner long enough to prove the recovery of the sinner to good morals, and they would check on the guilty one monthly for a full year to help in the reformation…

But if one carried on the sexual uncleanness inside one’s own congregation or another Christian congregation, then the innocent mate’s forgiveness may not be sufficient to ward off a disfellowshipment.

YES – w60 7/1 p. 413 par. 15 Anger and Indignation

In view of this, when some within a congregation violate Jehovah’s laws and disregard his principles by committing adultery, fornication, reviling, or being a drunkard, those of the congregation would naturally be expected to abhor those who practice such things. In fact, that is why it is important that the congregation committee exclude them from their association by disfellowshiping them.

IF THEY ARE UNREPENTANT – w71 6/15 p. 383 Questions From Readers

The Bible names certain detestable things that God hates. These include fornication, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality and stealing. (1 Cor. 6:9, 10; Gal. 5:19-21) Jehovah’s law commands the Christian congregation to expel those who practice such things and who show no heartfelt repentance for their acts.

YES, SHUN EVEN LONG TIME INACTIVE ONES – w85 7/15 p. 19 par. 14 ‘Run in Such a Way…’

One young Witness remembers the stand he and his brothers took when their mother, long inactive as a Christian, entered an adulterous marriage. “We reported matters to the elders,” he recalls, “and since she did not live at home, we decided to limit association with her until the elders could handle matters.”

IS DISFELLOWSHIPPING A PUNISHMENT OR DISCIPLINE?

PUNISHMENT – w54 10/1 p. 595 par. 15 Christians Live the Truth

Being disfellowshiped by the congregation is the greatest punishment that can come upon such a person at the hands of men, for when mature brothers act according to the advice of the Scriptures they are in fact acting for Jehovah and the judgment is from his Word.

DISCIPLINE – w55 6/1 p. 342 par. 19 Putting of Your Faithfulness to Proof

Perhaps a friend has been disfellowshiped. How do we show faith in the organization? We know discipline never hurts a righteously disposed person.

PUNISHMENT – w56 11/1 p. 667 par. 16 Turn to the New World Society

The offenses that make disfellowshiping necessary include those which brought punishment at the time of the early Christian congregation.

DISCIPLINE – w60 12/1 p. 728 par. 20 Separation and Divorce for the Sake of Peace

The committee must then decide what disciplinary action shall be followed in each case, whether disfellowshiping or probation.

PUNISHMENT – w61 7/1 p. 415 The Synagogue—Precursor of the Local Christian Assembly

Likewise the severest measures taken against one professing to be a Christian was and is that of expelling him, disfellowshiping or excommunicating him from the Christian congregation.

DISCIPLINE – w62 10/15 p. 632 Bible-based Society of Kingdom Witnesses

One disfellowshiped and later reinstated cannot be recommended as an overseer or ministerial servant, since his reputation is not above reproach. The committee and the Society will take appropriate disciplinary action against any dedicated minister who does wrong, regardless of his position in the organization.

PUNISHMENT – w63 8/15 p. 509 Did You Commit the Unforgivable Sin?

Even if the sin is of such a serious nature as to require disfellowshiping, that does not mean that the sin is unforgivable. However, to secure God’s forgiveness one must comply with his rules by also confessing his sin to those in charge of his congregation and willingly submitting to being punished.

DISCIPLINE – w65 3/1 p. 145 par. 4 Part Two 4 By being disfellowshiped from the faithful Christian congregation these two men did not learn any corrective discipline.

PUNISHMENT, NOT DISCIPLINE – w70 7/1 p. 405 Personally Benefiting from the Bible’s Laws

15 The congregation acts, not primarily to punish the person, but to clear itself of reproach, uncleanness and contamination by cutting off (expelling) such a one from membership in the congregation… If he is disfellowshiped (expelled), it is not to discipline him, but to get him out of God’s clean organization

18 For that matter, does the person who violates the law on adultery and who is disfellowshiped have full punishment applied by the congregation?

DISCIPLINE – w81 9/1 p. 17 par. 3 Happy Are Those Whom God Corrects

“Whom Jehovah loves he disciplines.” (Heb. 12:6) We are pleased, therefore, to present a Bible-based consideration of matters related to reproof, repentance and disfellowshiping.

SEVERE DISCIPLINE – w91 4/15 p.15-16 Will You Imitate God’s Mercy?

The severe discipline of being disfellowshipped might also shock him to his senses and instill in him and the congregation due fear of God.

DISCIPLINE, NOT PUNISHMENT – w03 10/1 p. 22 Appreciating the Purpose of Discipline

At times, it is necessary to disfellowship unrepentant wrongdoers from the congregation. (1 Timothy 1:18-20) Even such drastic action should be considered discipline, not merely punishment.

PUNISHMENT – w08 12/15 p. 9 par. 10 Will You Hold Fast to Your Integrity?

Such youths forget—or may choose to ignore—that the Bible word for fornication includes all those practices, wrong conduct for which one might be disfellowshipped. Worse, though, they ignore the need for integrity. Since we are striving to keep our integrity, we do not look for loopholes. We do not try to get as close as we can to sin without being punished.

DISCIPLINE – w10 3/15 p. 32 Maintain “Purity of Heart” in These Critical Times

This was the beginning of an immoral and hypocritical lifestyle, and he had to be disfellowshipped from the Christian congregation. Such discipline from Jehovah made him think deeply.

DISFELLOWSHIPPING IS LED BY HOLY SPIRIT

IT IS UNSCRIPTURAL! — w47 1/8 p.27 Are You Also Excommunicated?

The authority for excommunication, [the Romans Catholics] claim, are based on the teachings of Christ and the apostles… In fact, it is altogether foreign to Bible teachings. The Encyclopaedia Britannica says that papal excommunication is not without pagan influence… Thereafter, as the pretensions of the Hierarchy increased, the weapon of excommunication became the instrument by which the clergy attained a combination of ecclesiastical power and secular tyranny that finds no parallel in history.

YES — w57 5/1 p. 280 par. 3 Trust Your Proved, Faithful Brothers

If you think one of mother’s children needs a spanking, do not try to do it behind his back with your own tongue. Take it in the right way to our Father through his organization and let Him administer what correction may be necessary.

NO — w59 3/15 p. 179 par. 26 Helpers Toward Walking Wisely

Disfellowshipings are subject to appeal by the ones disfellowshiped who persist in believing that the committee exceeded itself. Appeals have been made to the Society at Brooklyn and some disfellowshipings have been reversed. This fact proves that some committees have been too eager to excommunicate. Either they have not had the needed witnesses with substantial testimony or have magnified the wrongdoing out of all proportions and have disfellowshiped oppressively and on unscriptural grounds.

YES — w61 7/15 p. 435 par. 19 Become Activated by the Spirit of Jehovah

19 Other manifestations of holy spirit from Jehovah involve the disfellowshiping and executing of criminals, as, for example, Korah, Dathan, Abiram, Achan, Judas Iscariot, Ananias and Sapphira.

YES — w71 6/15 p. 359 Fear of God’s Anger is Wisdom

Still another human agency God uses at times to express his anger is the judiciary committee of a local Christian congregation, such committee being responsible for the spiritual welfare of that congregation. When this committee, in the discharge of its duties, excommunicates a willful wrongdoer, it is expressing God’s anger against a wrongdoer.

YES — Paradise Restored (1972) chap. 20 p. 353 par. 21 A “Third Part” Preserved in a Purged Land

As a consequence any uncleanness as to religious teaching or as to moral behavior would be forced to pass out, under the driving force of God’s holy spirit. Persons spiritually and morally unclean must be disfellowshiped therefrom.

YES — w88 9/1 p. 16 par. 12 Stand Firm Against Satan’s Machinations

Others are emboldened by Satan not only to commit gross sins worthy of disfellowshipping but even to resort to lies and deception in order to try to fool the congregation elders. Like Ananias and Sapphira, they think they can deceive the angels and God’s holy spirit.

NO — w89 9/15 p. 18 Elders—Treat God’s Flock With Tenderness!

A person can appeal a decision to disfellowship him if he believes that a serious error in judgment has been made.

YES — Shepherd the Flock of God (2012)

p.6 When the body of elders discusses a matter, Christ, by means of the holy spirit, can influence any elder to make an expression that results in a wise decision. p. 82 “Preparing Your Mind and Heart to Judge”

3. Serving on a judicial committee is a heavy responsibility. You are judging for Jehovah and are accountable to him for the judgment you render.

5. You can render a good judgment with Jehovah’s help. (Matt. 18:18-20) Pray for wisdom, discernment, and God’s holy spirit.

Note: At the start of a Judicial Committee Holy Spirit is prayed for. The elders then ‘bind on earth what has already been bound in heaven’ (Mt 18:18). So if it is God’s decision to disfellowship, why is there an appeal process that can and sometimes does result in an overturning of the decision? Does this mean that the judicial committee was not led by Holy Spirit after all, but was merely the faulty decision of a few imperfect men? Would it not be the unforgivable sin to attribute something wrong to the Holy Spirit?

CAN A MINISTERIAL SERVANT SIT ON A JUDICIAL COMMITTEE?

YES – km 9/77 p. 6 par. 37 New Arrangements for Congregation Organization

If a congregation is in an isolated area and it is not convenient to have elders from a distant place sit with the local judicial committee members, then a well-qualified ministerial servant may be selected to complete the judicial committee.

NO – Letter to Body of Elders July 11th 2014 (7/11/14E)

Ministerial servants should not be used to serve on judicial committees.

DISFELLOWSHIPING ANNOUNCEMENT SHOULD INCLUDE SIN DETAILS

YES – w54 10/1 p. 595 par. 17 Christians Live the Truth

If announcements are made to congregations concerning someone who refuses to pay debts or who is going around taking money or other things from individuals in the congregation, the congregation servant should be the one to make the announcement and he should be careful to avoid wording something in a slanderous way but merely report the facts as they exist or that a person has been disfellowshiped for dishonesty or fraud. Then those who are in the congregation can be aware of what is going on and will be able to protect their own interests and the interests of their brothers. “His wickedness shall be openly showed before the assembly.”

NO – w96 1/15 p. 19 par. 17 Jehovah’s Sheep Need Tender Care

When this action seems necessary, the body of elders will choose a judicial committee. If expulsion occurs, this brief announcement would be made: ” . . . has been disfellowshipped.”

CAN YOU PRAY FOR DISFELLOWSHIPPED ONES?

No – w71 6/15 p. 384 Questions From Readers

Would it be proper to pray for him? In loyalty to Jehovah and his arrangements the Christian would refrain from praying for him.

Only if it’s not a ‘deadly’ sin – w79 10/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

So he may conclude that it seems she has not committed ‘deadly sin’ and he may be moved to pray for her.

Only if they are repentant – w01 10/1 p. 17 par. 15 How Can You Help a “Prodigal” Child?

If a disfellowshipped youth gives evidence of repentance but does not have “freeness of speech toward God,” the parents might pray that if God finds a basis for pardoning the child’s error, that His will be done.

Yes, but not publicly – w01 12/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

While some may be in a position to observe sufficient evidence to believe that the sinner has repented, this may not be the case with the congregation in general. They would be puzzled, troubled, even stumbled if they were to hear someone praying publicly about the erring one. For this reason, those who feel moved to pray about the sinner should do so only in private.

Not if they are unrepentant – jr (2013) chap.11 p.139 par.20 “Shepherds in Agreement With My Heart”

In that case, elders do not pray publicly for one who is expelled and is pursuing a sinful course; it would be pointless to do so.

WHAT HOPE FOR A DISFELLOWSHIPPED PERSON WHO DIES?

NO HOPE – w65 12/15 p. 751 par. 15 “We Should Not Neglect the House of Our God”

Disfellowshiping means the casting of a member out of God’s household; and if one should remain in this disfellowshiped condition till he died, it would mean his everlasting destruction as a person who is rejected by God.

RESURRECTION HOPE – w05 7/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

…the expression ‘lying down with one’s forefathers’ is another way of saying that the person went to Sheol.

What happened to Solomon [who became apostate and would have been disfellowshipped today] when he died? The Bible answers: “The days that Solomon had reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel were forty years. Then Solomon lay down with his forefathers, and was buried in the City of David his father.” Hence, it seems reasonable to conclude that Solomon is in Sheol, or Hades, from which he will be resurrected.

CAN YOU CLAP WHEN SOMEONE IS REINSTATED?

NO – km 2/00 p. 7 Is it appropriate to applaud when a reinstatement is announced?

Although we are very happy to see someone return to the truth, applause at the time of his or her reinstatement would not be appropriate.

YES – Letter to BoE 2016 1/25

In the past it was viewed as inappropriate for the congregation to applaud when the elders announced a reinstatement. As will be explained in the May 2016 issue of the watchtower, page 32, there are scriptural reasons to allow for spontaneous, dignified applause when such announcements are made.

YES – w2016 May p.32 QFR

When someone is reinstated in the congregation, we have good reason to rejoice. The person will have to keep on maintaining his integrity to God, but he had to be repentant in order to be reinstated, and we are

glad that he repented. Accordingly, there may well be spontaneous, dignified applause when the elders make an announcement of a reinstatement.

WHAT DOES ‘MARKING’ MEAN (2THESS 3:14)?

They are disfellowshipped – w52 11/15 p. 704 Questions From Readers

The purpose of observing the disfellowship order is to make the disfellowshiped one realize the error of his way and to shame him, if possible, so that he may be recovered, and also to safeguard your own salvation to life in the new world in vindication of God. (2 Thess. 3:14, 15)

They are shamed – w54 9/15 p. 565 par. 15 True Love Is Practical

“There are proper ways of shaming people with a view to their taking the right course. (2 Thess 3:14-15)”

They are not disfellowshipped – w65 9/15 p. 575 Questions From Readers

“At 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 15, was the apostle Paul discussing disfellowshiping?— Apparently not.”

They are disfellowshipped – w71 4/1 p. 224 Questions From Readers

There may be an occasion when the presiding minister announces to the congregation that its representatives have had to expel an unrepentant sinner or had to offer strong discipline to someone because of his unchristian conduct. The members of the congregation are informed so that they can avoid that one altogether or be careful in his presence, as the case may require. (2 Thess. 3:14, 15)

They are not disfellowshipped – w73 5/15 p. 319 Questions From Readers

“these “disorderly” ones were not committing grave offenses such as fornication, idolatry or extortion, offenses which could oblige the congregation to remove them, if unrepentant, disfellowshiping them.”

They are marked by individuals in the congregation – w73 5/15 p. 319 Questions From Readers “the members of the congregation individually would do the marking.”

They are marked by the elders – w76 12/1 p. 734 par. 17 Giving Reproof “Before All Onlookers”

“Thereby the congregation would be able to identify any who engaged in these as a bad influence against which to protect themselves.”

They are marked by individuals in the congregation – w78 9/15 p.13 par. 8 What Does Jehovah Require…?

“individual Christians may have to determine whether the unruly conduct of certain persons associated with the congregation makes them undesirable companions.”

They are marked by the elders – w85 4/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

The Christian congregation today also applies this counsel. The Watchtower of February 1, 1982, page 31, stressed that marking is not to be done over mere private opinions or when a Christian personally chooses to avoid close association with someone. First the elders try repeatedly to help the violator by admonishing him. If the problem persists, they may, without naming the person, give a warning talk to the congregation concerning the disorderly conduct involved, even as Paul warned the Thessalonians. After that, individual Christians would keep the erring person “marked.”

They are marked by individuals in the congregation – w13 12/15 p. 8 par. 9 Avoid Being “Quickly Shaken From Your Reason”!

If ever someone attending our congregation meetings would try to entice us into discussions of personal speculations or critical conversations, we should definitely be on guard.—2 Thess. 3:13-15.

CAN WE DRINK ALCOHOL BEFORE GOING TO THE MEETING?

NO – w04 12/1 para 15 – Maintain a Balanced View of the Use of Alcohol

Jehovah commanded those performing priestly duties at the tabernacle: “Do not drink wine or intoxicating liquor . . . when you come into the tent of meeting, that you may not die.” (Leviticus 10:8, 9) Therefore, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages just before attending Christian meetings, when sharing in the ministry, and when caring for other spiritual responsibilities.

YES – w14 11/15 para 18 – We Must be Holy in All Our Conduct

Note what God then told Aaron. (Leviticus 10:8-11.) Does that passage mean that we must not drink anything alcoholic before going to a Christian meeting? Think about these points: We are not under the Law. In some lands, our fellow believers use alcoholic beverages in moderation at meals before attending meetings. Four cups of wine were used at the Passover. When instituting the Memorial, Jesus had his apostles drink wine that represented his blood… However, circumstances vary from one country to another, and the important thing is for Christians to “distinguish between the holy thing and the profane” so as to conduct themselves with holiness that pleases God.

Note: Did you notice that the very same Scripture from Leviticus 10 is quoted to support both opposing positions? How can a single verse legitimately prove two opposing teachings, unless it has been misapplied? This one instance alone proves the WT uses verses to fit their thinking, not that they fit their thinking to match the verses. Why even try to use a verse from the old law, in any case?

WHO APPOINTS ELDERS?

The Holy Spirit – (Acts 20:28)

“Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God”

Jesus (1919) – w71 12/15 p.748-50

The GB (1938) – w99 2/1 p. 18 par. 18 Our Treasure in Earthen Vessels

The year 1938 was crucial in clearly identifying the two classes. The March 15 and April 1, 1938, issues of The Watchtower presented the two-part study “His Flock” and made clear the relative places of the anointed remnant and their companions, the great crowd. Then the June 1 and June 15 issues carried study articles on “Organization,” based on Isaiah 60:17. All congregations were called on to request the Governing Body to appoint local servants, thus bringing in an improved, God-ordained, theocratic arrangement.

Governing Body (for all congregation servants) – w55 06/01 p.333

Holy Spirit – w59 06/01 p.339

Anointed Remnant – w65 07/15 p.428

Governing Body – w67 09/15 p.563, w72 08/01 p.458

Holy Spirit – w74 07/01 p.413

Jehovah – w76 02/15 p.118

Holy Spirit with the Governing Body – w85 08/01 p.31

Holy Spirit – w94 01/15 p.16-7

Governing Body – w96 0115 p.15

Jehovah – w97 03/01 p.28

The GB – w08 10/15 p. 23 par. 12 Do You Take the Lead in Showing Honor?

First, it is Scriptural for “the faithful and discreet slave” through its Governing Body to appoint men to positions of responsibility.

Circuit Overseers – Letter to Body of Elders 7/3/14/E Dear Brothers:

1. As previously announced, effective September 1, 2014, circuit overseers will be responsible for the appointment and deletion of elders and ministerial servants. This letter provides further direction regarding this adjustment.

Note: So if it was ‘theocratic’ in 1938 and ‘scriptural’ in 2008, did it become untheocratic and unscriptural in 2014, or was it actually untheocratic and unscriptural up to 2008 all along?

ARE THERE ENOUGH ELDERS?

NO – w15 4/15 p. 4 par. 3 Elders, How Do You Feel About Training Others?

more brothers are needed to keep existing congregations spiritually strong and to allow new

congregations to be formed.

YES – es15 p. 94 September

Jehovah certainly has provided an abundance of spiritual men

NO – w14 9/15 p. 3 Are You “Reaching Out”?

there is a need for more brothers to reach out

YES – w13 11/15 p. 20 par. 16 Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes—What They Mean for Us Today

Today, Jehovah certainly has provided an abundance of spiritual men to shepherd his precious sheep

NO – w11 11/15 p. 2 Table of Contents

There is a need for men who can take the lead in spiritual matters

NO – p. 28 par. 2 Train Others to Reach Out there continues to be a need for men to take the lead in spiritual matters. For instance, Christian elders

are greatly needed.

NO – p. 32 par. 17 Train Others to Reach Out consider the fact that there is a great need for mature men to accept privileges of service in God’s

organization

NO – w10 5/15 p. 24 par. 3 Brothers—Sow to the Spirit and Reach Out!

there is a great need for ministerial servants and elders today

NO – w06 11/15 p. 13 A School Whose Graduates Benefit People Worldwide there is an ever-increasing need for dedicated men to reach out for greater responsibility

NO – w01 1/1 p. 9 par. 7 Be Built Up by Love there is a great need for more elders

NO – w93 1/1 p. 21 par. 14 Shepherding With Our Grand Creator

There is an outstanding need for all baptized male Witnesses to reach out for further privileges

NO – w90 4/15 p. 25 ‘Fishing for Men’ in Belize

There is a great need for mature brothers to take the lead in the congregations.

YES – w80 9/1 p. 21 par. 1 Overseers—Be Fine Examples to “the Flock”

This fact is recognized by thousands of dedicated, spiritual men who are entrusted with this privilege today

WHO IS GOG OF MAGOG?

Russia – WT June 1880 p.107

“Also the xxxix chapters of Ezek., after speaking of trouble with Gog – Russia – after their return, and dwelling in the mountains of Israel; gives the purpose for which it is all brought about; …”

A demon prince – WT 1932 June 15 p. 179 Para 7 “GOG AND MAGOG”

The prophecy therefore seems to relate to the satanic organization of the earth, the chief part of which is

Big Business, and also to other parts of that organization under the supervision of Gog, the prince of the Devil’s organization

Satan’s Field Marshall – His Vengeance (1934) p.47

Satan has appointed a chief representative for his organization, and his name is Gog.

Maybe Hitler – w41 1/15 p.20

It has been suggested that Hitler is Gog, Satan’s chief marshal, appearing in the flesh. Whether that is true or not, Hitler is an instrument completely in the employ and use of the Devil.

A spirit ruler but not a demon prince – WT 10/01/53 Para 6

Hence the suggestion of twenty years ago that Gog was an eighth demon prince is now seen to be without proof. However, that suggestion was leading us in the right direction for locating Gog, namely, in the spirit world and not in the visible earthly, human society. Therefore Gog still represents, not a visible human ruler or nation, such as Russia, but a spirit ruler.

Satan – w54 12/1 p. 733 par. 22 Never Fighting Illegally or Quitting World-wide Preaching

Jehovah is using us, his witnesses, therefore, by our fighting for freedom to preach world-wide, as bait for the Devil, named Gog in the book of Ezekiel.

A coalition of nations – WT 2015 May Questions From Readers

When we compare all these Scriptural references about the final attack on God’s people, it becomes evident that the name Gog of Magog refers, not to Satan, but to a coalition of nations.

HOW MANY DAYS IN A LUNAR YEAR?

354 days – 1990 si p. 281 par. 20 Study Number 2—Time and the Holy Scriptures The common lunar year of 12 lunar months has 354 days

354 days – 1988 it-2 p. 1214 Year

The common lunar year has 354 days

360 days – w83 8/1 p. 21 par. 18 Israel and the “Times of the Gentiles”

In the Bible’s prophetic count of time, a lunar year is calculated as amounting to 360 days.

360 days – w83 1/1 p. 11 par. 3 The Kingdom Issue to the Fore!

The years contained in each time would amount to the number of days in a prophetic lunar year, namely, 360 days.

354 days – 1981 kc chap. 14 p. 135 The King Reigns! a lunar year of 354 days

360 days – w59 4/1 p. 216 par. 40 Part 11—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

In Nebuchadnezzar’s case a “time” stood for a lunar year, the average of which was reckoned as 360 days.

Note: Truthfully, a lunar year has 354 days. This does not help when trying to interpret prophecy, so a

‘prophetic lunar year’ is said to last 360 days instead. This is no different from when CT Russell calculated 1914 by measuring a pyramid, only to find that regular inches did not add up correctly. He therefore invented a different unit of measurement called ‘pyramid inches’ so that his dates worked out.

WHAT DOES EZEKIEL’S CHARIOT PICTURE?

Up to 2011 – God’s heavenly organisation

After 2011 – God’s heavenly and earthly organisation

*** w11 8/15 p. 18 A History-Making Meeting ***

This colossal, glorious vehicle pictures God’s organization, with Jehovah in complete control. Its heavenly part, composed of spirit creatures, moves with lightning speed—the speed of Jehovah’s own thoughts, Brother Lett said. The earthly part of Jehovah God’s organization is likewise on the move.

WHAT TO BELIEVE, SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE OR THE BIBLE?

Science – w2013 15/10 p.7 par. 3 Creation Reveals the Living God

“They [Christian fundamentalists] reject credible scientific evidence that contradicts their view.”

Science – g 11/11 p. 3 The Most Important Question of All

“Regrettably, many of the world’s religions have added to the confusion by teaching things that contradict well-established scientific knowledge.”

The Bible – w08 4/15 p. 6 par. 16 Repudiate “Valueless Things”

“However, we know that when human teachings contradict what God has revealed, it is always the human teachings that are wrong.” (emphasis WT)

Describing scientists – g81 11/22 p. 14 How Old Are the Fossils?

[They are] Wishy-washy when it suits their purpose, dogmatic when it doesn’t. NOTE: This is a perfect description of the WT!

Describing evolution – w53 9/1 p. 516 Why Seminaries Weaken Faith

The Bible account of creation satisfies reason and inspires gratitude; but can the changing and conflicting theories and speculations of evolution do either?

NOTE: Neither do the WT changing and conflicting theories satisfy reason!

LUKE 21:26 (“MEN BECOME FAINT OUT OF FEAR”) REFERS TO WHEN?

“today” [the mid/late 1800’s] – The Watchtower of Sept 1879, “The Day of the Lord” (para’s 7 and 14)

“present events” – w50 10/1 p. 340 “The Wisdom from Above”

“this present generation” – w50 2/1 p. 35 par. 2 What Do You Do with Your Time?

“right now” – w92 3/15 p. 6 What God’s Kingdom Can Mean to You

“the tribulation” [which] lies before us” – w94 4/15 p. 10 par. 12 Helpful Teaching for Our Critical Times “future great tribulation” – w94 2/15 p. 20 par. 18 “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?”

Note: “men becoming faint out of fear” was a clear sign that we were living in the last days, for 115 years from 1879 to 1994. This was a key verse used in the ministry to prove we were in the Last Days.

Instead it turned out to be clearly wrong by 1994 when it was readjusted to point to some future date.

WHO SOWED THE ‘MUSTARD GRAIN’?

1900 Jesus – w1900 5/15 p.153

1975 Satan – “Man’s Salvation” p. 208 para 8

1975 Jesus – w75 10/1 p. 600 para 21

THE BIGGEST CREATURE EVER?

1914 – Photodrama of Creation – “Gigantosaurus – The largest animal known” g79 9/8 p. 25 Monarchs of the Deep the giant blue whale… Certainly this monarch of the deep is the largest creature, living or dead, ever

known to move upon planet Earth.

DOES ISA 7:14 REFER TO A ‘VIRGIN’ OR A ‘YOUNG WOMAN’?

(Isaiah 7:14) Look! The young woman will become pregnant and will give birth to a son… (rNWT 2013)

(Isaiah 7:14) Look! The maiden herself will actually become pregnant, and she is giving birth… (NWT ’84)

YOUNG WOMAN – w54 6/1 p. 351 Questions From Readers

It is true that ‘al·mah’ does not necessarily mean “virgin” the way the Hebrew word b^ethu·lah’ does

The divine Author of the Hebrew Scriptures doubtless had a purpose in using the Hebrew word ‘al·mah’ at Isaiah 7:14 instead of b^ethu·lah’ (“virgin”).

VIRGIN – w97 8/15 p. 9 Part One—How the Bible Came to Us

For example, at Isaiah 7:14 the Septuagint used a Greek word meaning “virgin,” referring prophetically to the mother of the Messiah.

YOUNG WOMAN – w11 8/15 pp. 9-10 par. 8 They Waited for the Messiah

The Hebrew word bethu·lah’ means “virgin,” but another term (ʽal·mah’) appears at Isaiah 7:14. There it was prophesied that “the maiden [ha·ʽal·mah’]” would give birth to a son.

BOTH! – w13 11/15 p. 17 Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes—What They Mean for Us Today

The Hebrew word translated “maiden” at Isaiah 7:14 can mean either a married woman or a virgin.

WHO IS THE MAN CLOTHED IN LINEN WITH A SECRETARY’S INKHORN (EZE 9:2)?

The servant Russell – w1916 12/1 p. 372 Rejoicing in our Pastors Victory

I deem it a privilege and an honor on this occasion to offer a tribute of love and esteem in memory of our departed Brother and Pastor… Eminently chosen of the Lord to serve the “Household of Faith with meat in due season,” and elsewhere (Ezekiel 9:2,11) described as the “man in linen with the writer’s ink horn at his side,” HE HAS DONE AS HE WAS COMMANDED, finished the work given him to do.

The ‘servant’ class – Vindication (1931) p. 105

The “servant” class, pictured by the man with the writing material and clothed in linen, must go through the midst of Christendom… These words of Jesus serve to further identify the man clothed in linen with the writer’s inkhorn by his side, and definitely show that he represented the “servant” class.

p.109 – The work of the “servant” class, pictured by the man in linen and with the writer’s inkhorn, is therefore clearly and definitely marked out.

The Remnant – w52 11/15 p. 678 Marking Those Who Sigh and Cry

In times past it was thought that the man in linen with the writer’s inkhorn by his side pictured a certain individual in modern times [C.T. Russell]. Such would be attaching too much importance to a man and would savor of creature worship. Rather, all the facts indicate that this man in linen with a writer’s inkhorn by his side pictures or represents the body of faithful anointed Christians working as a unit for the accomplishment of Jehovah’s purposes in the earth, and who are working together under divine direction as the “faithful and discreet slave”.

The Remnant – w72 1/15 pp. 47-48 par. 26 Has the King’s Secretary Called on You Recently?

“Not just the name, but the work carried out by them since then proves that this anointed remnant of Christian witnesses of the Most High God are unmistakably the twentieth-century fulfillment of the man “clothed with linen, with a secretary’s inkhorn.”

Anointed and non-anointed – w88 9/15 p. 14 par. 18 Listen—Jehovah’s Watchman Speaks!

The antitypical ‘man in linen’ is the class of anointed Christians. They go from house to house to put a symbolic mark on those who become part of the “great crowd” of Christ’s “other sheep.” The “mark” is the evidence that such sheep are dedicated, baptized individuals with a Christlike personality. Their “mark” will make it plain to God’s executional forces that they should be spared during the “great tribulation.” They can retain that “mark” by sharing with the anointed ones in marking yet others. So, if you have been ‘marked,’ share zealously in the ‘marking’ work.

The Remnant – w00 1/1 p. 12 par. 3 “The Little One” Has Become “a Thousand”

In a fine explanation of Ezekiel 9:1-11, [w91 9/1] showed that the man with the writer’s inkhorn mentioned in those verses represents the anointed remnant

Jesus, the angels, Jehovah – 2015 AGM Geoffrey Jackson Talk: “The Mark For Survival”

“Faithful Christians today have not yet received that mark.”

“Who decides whether someone is a sheep or a goat? It’s Jesus Christ… Jesus is the one who makes this determination… Additionally, looking at our adjusted understanding of the parable of the sheep and goats we realize the time frame. Not now, but during the Great Tribulation.”

“Jehovah’s people today do not mark those who will survive, just the same as in Ezekiels time.”

“Jesus Christ and the angels will, in effect, be putting marks on the foreheads of those who will survive.” “Jehovah and Jesus will select those who truly should survive the Great Tribulation.”

WERE THE “VAST MIXED COMPANY” IN A COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD?

YES – w67 11/1 p. 650 par. 6 “Let God Arise, Let His Enemies Be Scattered”

In the third month thereafter the Israelites and the “mixed crowd” reached Mount Sinai, and there Jehovah God made a national covenant or contract with them.

YES – w72 9/1 p. 529 par. 11 Help from On High all such temptations come upon Christians today who are also in covenant relationship with Jehovah,

since they are the antitypes of those ancient peoples, the natural Israelites and the “vast mixed company.”

UNSTATED – w82 3/15 p. 19 par. 16 Loyalty to “the Kingdom of Our Lord and of His Christ”

No less a degree of loyalty must be proved today by that class of dedicated, baptized persons who were prefigured by the “vast mixed company” who left Egypt with the Israelites and who were present at the making of the Law covenant at Mount Sinai.

NO – w83 3/15 pp. 8-9 Who Should Partake?

It is noteworthy that there was a vast mixed company of non-Israelites who escaped from Egypt along with the Israelites. Although they enjoyed benefits as a result of this covenant they were not included in it.

NO – w98 2/1 p. 11 par. 13 Jehovah Is a God of Covenants

When Jehovah made his covenant, it was only with Israel; those of the “vast mixed company,” although present, were not named as participants.

IS ISA 11:6 (LIONS WILL EAT STRAW) LITERAL OR FIGURATIVE?

Literal – w50 10/15 p. 399 Questions From Readers

If that outstanding carnivorous animal, the lion, is to “eat straw like the ox”, surely no others will be meat-eaters.

Figurative – w67 4/15 p. 240 par. 12 The Benefits of Mankind’s Millennium these formerly divided peoples cultivate and display the peaceful Christian spirit toward one another,

instead of beastliness. This was prefigured in the following Messianic prophecy:

Literal – w70 5/1 p. 267 par. 8 Keep Close in Mind “The Conclusion of the System of Things”

Even the animals will be peaceable… In fact, the scripture at Isaiah 11:6-9 pictures a wolf and a lamb living together peacefully.

Both Literal and Figurative – w71 4/15 p. 245 par. 21 How “Restoration of All Things” Is Made

The beauty of that peace and harmony, besides now fulfilling the further words of the prophet Isaiah in a spiritual sense, will become more concrete in a literal fulfillment of those same prophetic words, which we read in Isaiah 11:6-9:

Literal – w71 2/15 p. 106 Family Study a Blessing teacher called the mother, who through a friend explained the child’s desire to play with a lion in Paradise.

Figurative – Man’s Salvation book (1975) p 191/2

here these potentially harmful animals must be used as illustrations in the prophecy

Both Literal and Figurative – w75 10/1 p. 607 par. 13 Flight to the True Kingdom Refuge The harmless relationship between beast and man that will then prevail will correspond with the description of Isaiah 11:6-9, which has already found its fulfillment in the spiritual paradise now enjoyed by Jehovah’s Christian witnesses.

Figurative – w76 2/15 p. 127 Isaiah—A Book Overflowing with Good News!

In Jehovah’s spiritual paradise today persons who formerly had dispositions like a wolf, a leopard, a lion or a bear have become docile.

Literal – w77 10/1 p. 592 Changing Personalities in Kenya’s Paradise

in God’s new order, it can be expected that even the most vicious of the wild animals will be tamed, to live at peace alongside mankind

Figurative – w79 10/15 p. 9 What Blessings on Earth During the Millennium?

Irenaeus recognized that these words are a fitting description of how God’s truth can make personality changes in “savage men”.

Both Literal and Figurative – w80 1/15 p. 14 par. 22 God’s Government—Mankind’s Only Hope

Even today persons with animalistic tendencies, by applying God’s Word in their lives, are learning to live at peace with others. God’s Word indicates that, under Kingdom rule, even the animals will live in peace

Literal – w81 4/15 p. 5 Origin of the Millennial Hope

The lamb will not dread the wolf, nor will the leopard harm the kid (xi. 8 [6]); that is, as the following verse explains, tyranny and violence will no longer be practised on God’s holy mountain

Figurative – w83 12/15 p. 15 Do You Remember?

This is a foretaste of how humans will live together peacefully on this earth in a physical Paradise during the Thousand Year Reign of Christ Jesus

Both Literal and Figurative – w83 12/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

“It would be inconsistent for God to inspire such a prophecy as that of Isa 11:6-9, Eze 34:25 and Hos 2:18 to have only a figurative or spiritual meaning and not have a true copy of these things in actual life

Literal – w83 11/15 p. 30 par. 18 Abound in Hope!

why, “even the lion will eat straw just like the bull,” as no doubt it did in Eden

Figurative – w83 10/1 p. 7 Can You Enjoy a Paradise Now?

there is only one force in the universe that can cause people to make such drastic changes in their disposition.

Literal – w83 10/1 pp. 4-5 Can You Enjoy a Paradise Now?

This would restore the Paradise conditions that existed in the garden of Eden when animals and humans lived in that garden in perfect harmony.

Figurative – w85 1/1 p. 14 par. 20 Unified In Publishing the Word of Jehovah

It is illustrated at Isaiah 11:6-9, which tells of the spiritual paradise now existing among Jehovah’s restored people

Literal – w88 11/15 p. 6 The New World—Paradise Regained!

Think of children able to play safely with animals now so dangerous.

Figurative – w88 6/1 p. 7 Why Some Have Changed Their Religion

People with personalities formerly as different as sheep are from wolves are now getting along peaceably in the Christian assembly.

Literal – w89 11/15 p. 13 par. 16 Do All Things for the Good News she showed me Isaiah 11:6-9 about animals living in true peace

Figurative – w92 10/1 p. 19 par. 19 The Messiah’s Presence and His Rule the subjects of his Kingdom are learning to live peaceably together, fulfilling Isaiah 11:6-9

Literal – w96 12/1 p. 15 par. 1 Youths Who Remember Their Creator

Then I dream about how beautiful Paradise will be in the future and about how I can touch the animals then.

Figurative – w96 2/15 p. 25 Spreading Bible Truth in Portugal Truly a case of ‘the wolf residing with the lamb’!

Both literal and Figurative – w98 7/15 p. 6 What Future Do You Want for Your Children?

Try to envision the grand fulfillment of this prophecy: “The wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb, and with the kid the leopard itself will lie down, and the calf and the maned young lion and the well-fed animal all together; and a mere little boy will be leader over them.” (Isaiah 11:6) Even today, the spiritual security described in these words has a figurative fulfillment

Figurative – w01 9/15 p. 18 par. 11 Jehovah’s Blessing Makes Us Rich

This “fruitage of the spirit” is part of “the new personality” that Christians put on in place of any rapacious, beastlike traits they may formerly have displayed.

Literal – w03 11/15 p. 6 You Can Believe in a Paradise Earth Animals will pose no danger to man.

Figurative – w03 4/1 p. 19 par. 18 Mildness—An Essential Christian Quality

The Bible likens this transformation to the change of vicious wild beasts—wolf, leopard, lion, bear, and cobra—to peaceful domestic animals—lamb, kid, calf, and cow.

Literal – w03 1/15 p. 6 Has Evil Won?

Their peace will not be threatened from any source—human or animal.

Figurative – w04 11/1 p. 7 Who Is the Right Leader for Today?

Those men who today attack others like voracious lions or who act like ill-tempered bears toward their neighbors will have changed their dispositions completely.

Literal – w04 10/1 p. 6 “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth”—How? They will enjoy peace even with the beasts of the field.

Figurative – w04 5/1 p. 8 par. 1 Be Courageous Like Jeremiah JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES dwell in a spiritual paradise.

Literal – w07 9/1 p. 7 “Written for Our Instruction” What a beautiful prospect!

Figurative – w08 5/15 p. 28 Pursue “Holiness in God’s Fear”

Figuratively speaking, people who are violent and aggressive in action and speech are compared to wild beasts.

Literal – Wt 2012 9/15 p10

So we should not be surprised when we read in the Bible that peace will come to prevail between humans and animals. (Read Isaiah 11:6-9; 65:25.)

WHO ARE THE ‘GLORIOUS ONES’ (2Pe 2:10)?

All anointed – w60 9/1 p. 539 par. 14 Awake Worshipers in the Time of the End

The “glorious ones” here referred to are not any who are bright and shining in their own eyes or who are glorious in the eyes of others due to their personal achievements. Those who are the brothers of the King Jesus Christ have been selected as heirs of the heavenly kingdom—a glorious privilege indeed!

All anointed – w65 10/1 p. 592 par. 7 Execution of Divine Judgment upon the Ungodly

Who are these “glorious ones”? They must be those who receive glory from Jehovah God and his Lord of lords, Jesus Christ. According to Isaiah 60:1, 2, Jehovah’s “own glory” would be conferred upon the remnant of spiritual Israel, the anointed Christians.

Elders – w79 1/15 p. 25 Why Keep Free from Murmuring?

They were individuals who were “disregarding lordship and speaking abusively of glorious ones,” or responsible men in the congregation.

Elders – w80 1/15 p. 19 par. 10 Are You a Loyal Subject of God’s Government?

Further describing them, the apostle says: “Daring, self-willed, they do not tremble at glorious ones [persons entrusted with oversight within God’s congregation] but speak abusively.”

Anointed elders – w82 8/15 p. 28 pars. 14-15 Heed the ‘Warnings Placed Before Us’!

Those ungodly persons also spoke abusively of “glorious ones” (literally, “of glories”), evidently those who had certain glory conferred upon them by Jehovah God and Jesus Christ… ¹⁵ Certainly, those of Christ’s anointed followers who serve faithfully as appointed Christian overseers have had glory, or honor, conferred upon them.

Anointed elders – w89 9/15 p. 22 par. 8 Be Obedient to Those Taking the Lead

Surely, we do not want to be like the “ungodly men” of Jude’s day who ‘disregarded lordship and spoke abusively of glorious ones,’ anointed Christian elders with God-given glory, or honor, conferred upon them.

Anointed elders – w91 4/15 p. 31 Beware of Apostates!

Unlike the archangel Michael, who would not even bring a judgment against the Devil in abusive terms, the ungodly men spoke abusively of “glorious ones,” evidently those with certain glory conferred upon them by God and Christ as anointed elders.

Elders – w97 9/1 pp. 15-16 pars. 13-14 Beware of False Teachers!

Jude writes that “these men, . . . indulging in dreams, are defiling the flesh . . . and speaking abusively of glorious ones.” (2 Peter 2:10; Jude 8) In what sense, though, do they “look down on lordship” and speak “abusively of glorious ones”? ¹⁴ They do so in that they despise divinely constituted authority. Christian elders represent the glorious Jehovah God and his Son and, as a result, have certain glory conferred upon them. True, they make mistakes, as did Peter himself, but the Scriptures urge members of the congregation to be submissive to such glorious ones.

Elders – w98 6/1 p. 17 par. 10 “Put Up a Hard Fight for the Faith”!

But if we dwell on their faults and undermine respect for them, might we be “speaking abusively of glorious ones”? In verse 10, Jude mentions those who “are speaking abusively of all the things they really do not know.” Some will, at times, criticize a decision made by a body of elders or a judicial committee.

Elders – w08 11/15 p. 22 par. 9 Highlights From the Letters of James and of Peter

While “glorious ones,” that is, Christian elders, have faults and may err at times, we must not speak abusively of them.

JOHN 17:3 “THIS MEANS EVERLASTING LIFE, THEIR TAKING IN KNOWLEDGE OF YOU …”

— w02 12/15 p. 8 par. 5 “Draw Close to God”

Many translations of this verse differ slightly from the New World Translation. Instead of saying “taking in knowledge” of God, they simply render the verb “to know” God or “knowing” God. However, a number of scholars note that the sense of the word used in the original Greek involves something more—a continuous process, one that may even lead to intimate acquaintance with another.

— Oct 2013 Revised NWT released:

John 17:3 – “This means everlasting life, their coming to know you…”

— w15 4/15 p.21 par.7

John 17:3 says: “This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” Thus, our objective should be not merely to take in knowledge but to come to “know” Jehovah better as a Person.

So w02 says “taking in knowledge” is better than “coming to know” God, but w15 says the total opposite! Why did false religions ‘many translations’ have this right all along while the NWT was mistranslated?

DO WE HAVE GUARDIAN ANGELS?

(Exodus 23:20) I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you on the way

YES – w50 10/15 p. 381 “Be Fruitful, Multiply, Fill the Earth”

To assist [Adam and Eve] to continue in the way of righteousness and obedience and to protect them from evil, God provided them with a guardian angel.

YES – w58 8/1 p. 455 Why Many Doubt Satan’s Existence

The Bible also tells us that God created many righteous spirit creatures, angels, among whom was one that God appointed as covering cherub or guardian angel of the first human pair.

NO – w76 4/1 p. 224 Questions From Readers it appears that there was a widespread belief, though not based directly on the Bible, that an angel was

assigned to watch over each Israelite, as a sort of guardian angel.

NO – Reasoning From the Scriptures book page 69

The Greeks believed that everyone had a protective spirit or daemon who attended his birth and watched over him in life. This spirit had a mystic relation with the god on whose birthday the individual was born. The Romans also subscribed to this idea…..This notion was carried down in human belief and is reflected in the guardian angel. ”

YES – it-1 (1988) pp. 107-108 Angel

God’s servants are assured of the ever-present, invisible protecting armies, as real as those that surrounded the prophet Elisha and his servant. “He will give his own angels a command concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Yes, “the angel of Jehovah is camping all around those fearing him, and he rescues them.”

YES – w98 11/15 pp. 6-7 How Angels Can Help You – Guardian Angels

Do angels care for people and protect them? The apostle Paul asked: “Are they [angels] not all spirits for public service, sent forth to minister for those who are going to inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14) Clearly, the answer to Paul’s question is yes…

Present-day servants of Jehovah God are fully convinced that God’s invisible angelic forces are real and are able to provide protection, as they did for Elisha and his attendant.

YES – w02 10/15 pp. 17-18 par. 16 Jehovah Cares for You

Are you convinced of Jehovah’s saving power? Are you aware of his angelic protection?

NO – w05 6/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

It appears that there was a belief among some Jews that each servant of God had his own angel—in effect, a “guardian angel.” Of course, this view is not directly taught in God’s Word.

YES – Bible Teach (2005) p.97 para. 4

Since angels have such deep concern for the welfare of those who serve God, it is no wonder that Jehovah has repeatedly used angels to strengthen and protect his faithful servants on earth. (Hebrews 1:7, 14) Consider some examples.

NO – w08 9/15 p.9 What About Physical Protection?

8 As individuals, we know that our immediate physical protection is not guaranteed. We take the position expressed by the three faithful Hebrews who refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar’s image of gold. Those God-fearing young men did not presume that Jehovah would miraculously protect them from physical harm. (Read Daniel 3:17, 18.) As matters turned out, Jehovah did deliver them from the flames of the fiery furnace. (Dan. 3:21-27) Even in Bible times, however, miraculous deliverance was the exception rather than the rule. Many faithful servants of Jehovah died at the hands of opposers.

NO – w09 5/15 pp. 22-23 par. 10 The Angels—”Spirits for Public Service” The Scriptures do not teach that each person on earth has a guardian angel

YES – w10 1/15 p. 10 par. 13 Belonging to Jehovah—An Undeserved Kindness

How does Jehovah protect his people from these spiritual dangers? The psalm says: “He will give his own angels a command concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” (Ps. 91:11) Heavenly angels guide and protect us so that we can preach the good news.

NO – w10 11/1 p. 16 How Spirit Creatures Affect Us

Jesus did not necessarily mean that each of his followers has a guardian angel assigned to him

YES – 2013 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, page 30.

“‘If we had been at home,’ said Chinyere, ‘we would surely have died. After the disaster, we were left with only our meeting clothes, but we have our lives. The circuit overseer immediately set up a relief committee, and the brothers took good care of us. We are very grateful.’

Collins said: ‘My relatives who had been opposed to my being a Witness have changed their minds. One of them told me: ‘Your Jehovah answers prayers. Hold on to your God because he helps you.’ Another person said: ‘Whatever you have been doing to serve God, continue to do it whole-souled.’ We have truly seen Jehovah’s hand in our case. I am very happy.'”

YES – w2013 3/15 p.22

(Caption: God’s angels support and protect his servants)

Note: The official stance is that Jehovah will protect individuals as he sees fit, and there are many accounts in the WT publications where people have prayed and been saved from death.

However we do not have guardian angels, only the tease of them for when we are facing persecution etc.

DOES SATAN HAVE HOOVES?

YES – 1936 Riches p. 157

NO – w66 4/15 p. 232 par. 13 What Binding Satan the Devil Will Mean for Mankind

True, no cloven-hoofed, spike-tailed, two-horned, red devil exists. Such a creature is only the imagination of old-fashioned artists, painters and religiously backward persons.

DO LIONS ROAR TO FRIGHTEN THEIR PREY (1 PE 5:8)?

YES – w72 3/1 p. 138 par. 18 How to Stand Firm in This Time of the End

We know that a lion will stalk his prey with a loud roar. Similarly, Satan, through nationalism or by means of Babylon the Great, will roar out at true Christians, endeavoring to frighten them into compromise.

NO – g99 1/22 p. 19 Lions—Africa’s Majestic Maned Cats

Surprisingly, when hunting wild animals, lions do not use roaring as a hunting strategy to scare their prey.

WHO REPLACED JUDAS AS THE 12TH APOSTLE?

Paul – w51 12/15 p. 763 Questions From Readers

Paul – w57 7/15 p. 423 Do the Apostles Have Successors?

Matthias – w71 11/15 p. 688 par. 3 Appointed Officers in the Theocratic Organization Matthias – w71 5/15 p. 320 Questions From Readers

WHEN WAS FRED FRANZ BAPTISED?

1914 – w87 5/1 p.25 Looking Back Over 93 Years of Living (as told by Frederick W. Franz)

On April 5, 1914, in Chicago, Illinois, I symbolized my consecration—as we used to call dedication—by water baptism.

1913 – w93 3/15 Rewarded With “The Crown of Life”

Brother Franz was born on September 12, 1893, in Covington, Kentucky. He came in touch with the truth through an older brother. . . He was baptized on November 30, 1913 , and the following year he left the university and entered the colporteur (pioneer) work.

CAN WE TRUST VAT 4956 (ARCHAELOGICAL TABLET)?

NO – g72 5/8 p. 28 When Did Babylon Desolate Jerusalem?

So, because of the problems inherent in Ptolemy’s Canon and “VAT 4956,” it takes more faith to accept them than it does to accept the Bible’s testimony.

YES – w11 11/1 p. 27 When Was Ancient Jerusalem Destroyed?—Part Two

Clearly, much of the astronomical data in VAT 4956 fits the year 588 B.C.E. as the 37th year of Nebuchadnezzar II. This, therefore, supports the date of 607 B.C.E. for Jerusalem’s destruction—just as the Bible indicates.

WHO IS THE ‘LORD’ AS MENTIONED IN ROMANS 10:12-16

1903 – ‘Lord’ refers to Jesus.

1940 – ‘Lord’ refers to Jehovah.

1978 – ‘Lord’ refers to Jesus.

1980 – ‘Lord’ refers to Jehovah.

IS JEHOVAH OUR FATHER OR GRANDFATHER?

FATHER – w98 12/15 pp. 18-19 par. 12 This Is the Day of Salvation!

Jehovah’s anointed ambassadors and his envoys, the “other sheep,” do not accept their heavenly Father’s undeserved kindness and miss its purpose.

GRANDFATHER – w95 8/1 p. 13 par. 19 Jehovah—A God Who Teaches

Even though the other sheep are not directly included among the “sons” spoken of at Isaiah 54:13, they are blessed with being taught by Jehovah. Therefore, they properly address God as “Father” because he will, in effect, be their Grandfather through the “Eternal Father,” Jesus Christ.

FATHER – w92 2/1 p. 15 par. 8 ‘In the Name of the Holy Spirit’

However, all new disciples—whatever their hope—are baptized in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the holy spirit.

WHO WAS THE FIFTH WORLD POWER?

GREECE – w52 11/1 p. 657 par. 13 A Better Basis for Belief upon his death in 323 B.C. the fifth world power of Greece was divided into four parts

SYRIA – w59 12/1 p. 731 par. 58 Part 27—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

Jehovah’s angel included the important mention of this in the vision to Daniel, so as to aid us also in determining when the prophetic “king of the north” changed from Syrian kings of the fifth world power to Roman rulers of the sixth world power.

GREECE – w65 11/1 pp. 661-662 It Makes a Difference What God You Worship

In overpowering and replacing the Grecian or Fifth World Power, the Romans unavoidably came into conflict with the Parthians

CORRECT VIEW OF WEDDING RINGS?

PAGAN ROOTS – w50 6/1 p. 165 par. 13 A Mind Freed for Godly Combat

“… the ring in marriage, turning to the East, images at a later date, perhaps the ecclesiastical chant, and the [song] Kyrie Eleison, are all of pagan origin, and sanctified by their adoption into the Church.”— Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, by Cardinal Newman.

NOT IN THE BIBLE, BUT IT’S OK- w69 1/15 pp. 58-59 Christian Weddings

A study of the subject would likely leave you confused as to the origin and meaning of the wedding ring; the claims are many, the facts muddled. Even if the Bible does not directly mention wedding rings, it is plain that Jehovah’s servants could wear rings… It is not improper for a Christian to give evidence of his or her married status by wearing a wedding ring.

PAGAN ROOTS, BUT IT’S OK – w72 1/15 p. 63 Questions From Readers

Catholic prelate John H. Newman wrote: “…the ring in marriage, turning to the East, images at a later date, perhaps the ecclesiastical chant, and the Kyrie Eleison, are all of pagan origin.”

… Even if it were a fact that pagans first used wedding rings, would that rule such out for Christians? Not necessarily. Many of today’s articles of clothing and aspects of life originated in pagan lands. The present time divisions of hours, minutes and seconds are based on an early Babylonian system.

A PAGAN THING CAN BECOME UN-PAGAN – w92 9/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers

Some customs that were once religious in nature no longer are in many places. For example, the wedding ring once had religious significance, but in most places today, it no longer does. Hence, many true Christians accept the local custom of wearing a wedding ring.

DOESN’T MATTER THAT IT WAS ONCE PAGAN – w07 2/15 p. 30 Questions From Readers

the fact that an object, a design, or a practice has roots or parallels in ancient false religion does not

always rule such out for a true worshipper… the wedding ring at one time had religious significance. Yet, most people today do not know that, considering a wedding ring mere evidence that someone is married.

CORRECT VIEW OF BIRTHDAYS?

WT SELL BIRTHDAY BOOKS – w1907 12/1 p.354

Remember the new MANNA Birthday Books, 35¢ each in cloth; $1.00 each in fine Morocco, postpaid.

RUSSELL CELEBRATES HIS BIRTHDAY – w1909 2/15 R4336 p.57

On the closing day of the Convention Brother Russell was ushered to the platform on a pretext and then informed that the Convention, aware of the fact that the day was the anniversary of his birth, desired to express their love in some substantial manner and, concluding that Brother Russell would most enjoy a birthday token which he could enjoy with the Bible House family, they had shipped to him at Allegheny a box of grape fruit, a crate of pineapples and two boxes of sweet Florida oranges.

WT SELL BIRTHDAY CARDS – w1909 11/15 p.338

Our own Christmas & Birthday Card. Just what we want. Order now! 9 for 15¢.; 18 for 25¢.; 80 for $1.00

ABRAHAM CELEBRATED HIS BIRTHDAY – w1910 12/1 R4722 p.376

Presumably the occasion was a celebration of the birthday of their grandfather Abraham, from whom proceeded the great blessing of God, which, as the elder son of the family, Esau had inherited.

PAGAN ROOTS, SO NOT OK – w51 10/1 p. 607 Questions From Readers

Is it proper to have or attend celebrations of birthday anniversaries?—F. K., Nevada. Such celebrations have their roots in pagan religions, and not Scriptural grounds

NOT IN THE BIBLE, SO IT’S WRONG – w54 12/15 p. 741 Origin of Christmas and Its Spirit

The conspicuous silence of the Bible regarding birthdays is powerful testimony that the same were not kept, that they were frowned upon as pagan.

A PAGAN THING CANNOT BECOME UN-PAGAN – w57 12/15 p. 743 Can Christ Be Put into Christmas?

No matter how good the intentions, men cannot make a pagan holiday and pagan customs Christian by whitewashing them with Christ’s name, for the Scriptural principle is clear: “What partnership do righteousness and lawlessness have?”

PAGAN SO CAN’T CELEBRATE – w60 11/15 p. 704 Questions From Readers

Children of dedicated Christian parents should therefore not take part in celebrating such holidays or birthdays. This would include nationalistic holidays as well as those partly or wholly of pagan origin.

IN THE BIBLE AS WRONG – w92 9/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers

Celebrating birthdays is rooted in superstition and false religion, but that is not the sole or prime reason why Jehovah’s Witnesses avoid the practice… Given the known origin of celebrating birthdays, and more

important, the unfavorable light in which they are presented in the Bible, Jehovah’s Witnesses have ample reason to abstain from the practice.

WHERE DO THE GREAT CROWD ‘RENDER SERVICE’?

— Four reasons why it IS ‘in the court of the gentiles’ w80 8/15 p. 15 The “Great Crowd” Renders Sacred Service Where?

The Greek word na·os’ refers often to the inner sanctuary representing heaven itself

• It was the entire temple (na·os’) that had been 46 years in the building
• It was the entire temple (na·os’) that was destroyed as a judgment from God
• It was from the courts of the outer temple (na·os’) that Jesus drove the money changers

(Note: See above for proof this is false)

• It was in the outer temple (na·os’) that Judas threw back the 30 pieces of silver

HENCE it is consistent that the “great crowd” serve God in the earthly court of the spiritual temple

— Five reasons why it is NOT ‘in the court of the gentiles’

w02 5/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers

In times past, it has been said that the great crowd is in a spiritual equivalent, or an antitype, of the Court of the Gentiles that existed in Jesus’ day. However, further research has revealed at least five reasons why that is not so.

RESURRECTED ONES CAN MARRY?

Women may be turned into men – Golden Age 1930, April 2. P. 446 Bible Questions and Answers

Whether the identity of the sexes, as such, will be preserved, we do not know. There have been some well authenticated instances in which women have been transformed into men, and it is possible that this transformation may become general and we shall all be brothers together.

NO – w1938 11/1 p. 325 para.10

Under this Scriptural rule all those who were in the marriage relationship before dying will, if brought back in the resurrection, come forth as unmarried persons. Such will be subjected to the will of “the Everlasting Father”, Christ Jesus, who ministers life to all, as God commands. (Rom. 6: 23) It is the right and privilege of the Everlasting Father” to arrange or not arrange marriage for such awakened ones as it pleaseth him. The divine rule is for the father to arrange for the marriage of his children. There is no plain Scriptural evidence, however, that those who are awakened out of death will marry and bring children into the world.

YES – 1943 “The Truth Shall Make You Free” p.362 – 364

[Evil ones] will not come forth [in the resurrection] to take part in the divine mandate [filing the earth], because that will have been completed by the Lord’s “other sheep”.

NO – w50 10/15 p. 381 “Be Fruitful, Multiply, Fill the Earth”

Nor will the resurrected multitudes be privileged to do so, for Jesus plainly stated that such will not marry nor be given in marriage

Even survivors won’t marry – w54 9/15 p. 575 Questions From Readers

After that final test there will definitely be no marrying or being given in marriage then by those counted worthy of the new world and having the right to eternal life, just as angels have that right

YES – w54 9/15 p. 575 Questions From Readers

It is even reasonable and allowable to entertain the comforting thought that those of the other sheep who now die faithful will have an early resurrection and live during the time when the procreation mandate is being fulfilled and when paradise conditions are being spread earth-wide and that they will share in this divinely given service.

NO – w56 10/1 p. 601 par. 9 ‘He That Marries Not Does Better’

She died single, and that without the hope of enjoying married life in God’s new world after she is resurrected from the dead.

NO – w61 11/15 p. 704 Questions From Readers for dead ones with spiritual, heavenly hopes and for dead ones with earthly Paradisaic hopes the rule

enunciated by Jesus Christ stands unaltered: “In the resurrection neither do men marry nor are women given in marriage”

NO – w67 10/15 p. 638 Questions From Readers

Jesus’ words apply to the earthly resurrection, and they indicate that those resurrected will not marry or be reunited in a marriage relationship with former mates.

NO – g99 10/8 p. 11 Crossword Puzzle

8. Jesus said that resurrected ones will not do this (Luke 20:35) Solutions Across: 8. MARRY

YES / MAYBE – w14 8/1 page 29+30, questions from readers

“Could Jesus be referring only to the heavenly resurrection?” “It is possible” *** it-1 p. 579 Daniel, Book of ***

Daniel is outstanding in his recording of prophetic time periods: …the periods of 1,290, 1,335, and 2,300 days… All of these time prophecies are vital to an understanding of God’s dealings with his people:

WHEN DO THE 1260 DAYS BEGIN AND END (Da 7:25, Da 12:7, Rev 11:2, 3, Rev 13:5)?

During the 1800’s the Watchtower claimed this was prophetic of 1260 years. Now it is said to be a period of days that correspond approximately to 1260 literal days.

There have been at least 11 teachings, spanning 9 different periods of time.

Source	Begins	Ends	Duration
Zion’s Watch Tower Apr 1880	538 AD	15/2/1798 AD	1260 years
Zion’s Watch Tower 1898 Sep 1 and 15	539 AD	1799 AD	1260 years
Zion’s Watch Tower 1915 Aug 1	325 AD or 539 AD	1585 AD or 1799 AD	1260 years
Watchtower 1929 Dec 15	1 Oct 1914	1 Apr 1918	1278 days
Light 1 (1930)	7 Nov 1914	7 May 1918	1277 days
Watchtower 1951	1 Oct 1914	1 Apr 1918	1278 days
Finished Mystery (1969)	4 Oct 1914	26 Mar 1918	1269 days
Incoming World Government (1977)	28 Dec 1914	21 Jun 1918	1271 days
Revelation Climax (1988)	28 Jul 1914	Early 1918
Watchtower 1993 Nov 1 pp.9-10	Dec 1914	21 June 1918
Kingdom Ministry Sep 2006 p.5	Dec 1914	Jun 1918

As the 1260 days do not line up exactly with any relevant, literal time period of importance to the

Watchtower, numerous adjustments have been made, most not even 1260 days. These have related to:

• Papal Rule o World War One
• The End of the Gentile Times o The arrest of Rutherford
• The sentencing of Rutherford

WHEN DO THE 1290 DAYS BEGIN AND END (Da 12:11)?

Lords Return (1914) – end in 1829 w51 7/15 p. 433 – January 1919 to September 1922 w60 5/1 p. 282 – January 1919 to September 5-13, 1922 w93 11/1 p. 11 – January 1919 to September 1922

WHEN DO THE 1335 DAYS BEGIN AND END (Da 12:12)?

Three Worlds (1877) – 539 BCE to October 1874 CE w51 7/15 p. 437 – September 1922 to May 1926 w93 11/1 p. 11 – September 1922 to May 1926

WHEN DO THE 2300 DAYS BEGIN AND END (Da 8:14)?

Three Worlds (1877) – 539 BCE to 1843 CE w59 10/15 p. 632 – 25/05/1926 – 15/10/1932

w71 1/12 p. 726 – 8/10/1944 – 1/6/1938

” OR 22/10/1944 – 15/6/1938

HOW LONG WAS THE TRIBULATION FOR JERUSALEM IN 70CE?

4 YEARS – w68 12/15 p. 748 par. 32 “Your Deliverance Is Getting Near”

Has no “great tribulation” occurred again since 70-73 C.E. that compares with the Jewish disaster of those years

1. MONTHS 25 DAYS – it-2 p. 47 Jerusalem

In just 4 months and 25 days, from April 3 to August 30, 70 C.E., the conquest had been effected. Thus, the tribulation, though intense, was remarkably short.

4.5 YEARS – July 15, 2013 WT.

Chart on pages 4,5, indicates it lasted 66 C.E – 70 C.E

WHEN DID THE GENTILE TIMES END?

AUTUMN 1914 – w1902 3/15 p.90

OCTOBER 1914 – w1905 12/1 (3671)

AUGUST 1st 1914 – w1922 11/1 p.333

JULY/AUGUST 1914 – w1925 2/15 p.54

OCTOBER 1914 – w1931 6/1 p.169

WHAT EVENT INDICATED THAT 70 YEARS OF EXILE BEGAN?

WHEN JERUSALEM WAS DESTROYED – The 70 years expired when Cyrus the Great, in his first year, released the Jews and they returned to their homeland. (2 Chronicles 36:17-23) We believe that the most direct reading of Jeremiah 25:11 and other texts is that the 70 years would date from when the

Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and left the land of Judah desolate.— (Kingdom Comes, pages 187-188)

WHEN GEDALIAH WAS MURDERED – “In the seventh month,” Gedaliah and some others were assassinated, so that the remaining Jews fled in fear to Egypt. Then only, from about October 1, 607

B.C.E., was the land in the complete sense “lying desolated … to fulfill seventy years.”—2 Ki. 25:22-26; 2 Chron. 36:20, 21. (All Scripture is Inspired of God and Beneficial, page 285)

WHEN THE JEWS FLED TO EGYPT – The seventy years of unbroken captivity to Babylon did not begin until 607 B.C.E., in the month Ethanim, when the land was left completely desolate when its remaining inhabitants went down to Egypt. Then the Jews as a nation went into exile at Babylon, without a king at Jerusalem. This exile was for an uninterrupted period of seventy years. (w64 12/1 page 735)

WHEN ZEDEKIAH WAS DEPOSED – Since the 70 years of desolation for Judah and Jerusalem ended in 537 B.C.E., they began in 607 B.C.E. That would be the year when Zedekiah ceased to sit upon the “throne of the kingship of Jehovah” in Jerusalem. It therefore marks also the date for the beginning of the Gentile Times. (Kingdom Comes, page 136)

WHEN JUDAH WAS LEFT DESOLATE – The land of Judah was to keep a “sabbath, to fulfill seventy years.”

(2 Chronicles 36:21) How? By lying as a “desolate waste without man and domestic animal”. … Those seventy years of utter desolation of the land of Judah and Jerusalem without man and domestic animal. (1972 Paradise Restored, page 132)

WHEN WAS JESUS BORN?

OCTOBER – w93 12/15 p. 7 Was Jesus Born in the Snow?

we have also seen that Christmas does not represent truth, since Jesus was born in October.

WE DON’T KNOW – 1995 Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life p. 126

… the Scriptures do not reveal the birth date of the perfect man Jesus Christ …

OCTOBER 1st – w95 5/15 p. 19

Rather, the Scriptures indicate that Jesus was born about October 1.

WE DON’T KNOW – w10 4/1 p. 12

There is no direct statement in the Bible concerning the month or day of Jesus’ birth.

OCTOBER – w12 12/1 p. 16 Why Did God Send Jesus to Earth?

Thus, Jesus was born, not in the depths of winter, but likely in early October

HOW MANY ‘WISE MEN’ VISITED BABY JESUS?

THREE – The Harp of God 1921 p. 91

The Bible proof shows, however, that these three wise men were not sent by the Lord God, but that they were directed by the great adversary, the devil, in his attempt to destroy the babe.

THREE – w1924 6/4 p.174 par.1

It was not very long after the presentation of Jesus in the temple (Luke 2: 27) that there came to the house where Joseph and Mary lodged three strange visitors. They were called “wise men from the east.”

SEVERAL – w31 7/1 p.205

The several astrologers (the Bible does not say how many they were) arrived at Bethlehem.

THE BIBLE DOESN’T SAY – w33 10/15 p. 318

MATTHEW, an apostle of Jesus Christ, wrote of “wise men from the east”; just how many of them he does not say. Traditions of men fix the number as three.

THREE – w50 9/1 p. 301

In the meantime three wise men, astrologers or magi, from the east were directed to Bethlehem to bring gifts to the child Jesus while there

NOT THREE – w52 12/15 p. 741 The Unchristian Christmas

In the first place, note that the Bible does not state how many wise men there were.

MATTHEW 24:14 HAS BEEN FULFILLED?

YES – w51 10/1 p. 601 par. 7 Laying the Stone in Completion

The Gentile times ended in 1914 and the prophecies were fulfilled exactly as foretold at Matthew 24 and Luke 21, but have not been heeded by these millions.

NO – w55 10/15 p. 621 par. 1 The Triumphant Message of “The Kingdom”

Today, in this year 1955, the temple of Jerusalem is no more, as he foretold that it would not be, but his prophecy concerning “this good news of the kingdom” is being fulfilled.

YES – ws chap. 7 p. 61 par. 9 Settling Accounts Over the Use of Christ’s Funds

To mark his return, two wars of world proportions, accompanied now by many other wars of lesser proportions, have bloodied our earth. As predicted, these have been accompanied by famines, pestilences, and earthquakes, and by the increasing of lawlessness and the preaching of “this good news of the kingdom” in all the inhabited earth. This has fulfilled the details of what Jesus said would be “the sign of [his] presence and of the conclusion of the system of things.”—Matthew 24:3-15.

IT APPLIES TO THE 1ST CENTURY – w92 6/15 p. 14 par. 14 Serving as Fishers of Men

For the needs of the first-century Christians, Jesus’ prophecy at Matthew 24:14 was fulfilled before Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 C.E.

YES – w92 5/1 p. 22 par. 19 Keep Awake in “the Time of the End”

As we look back over three quarters of a century, we can see how one prophecy after another has been fulfilled—the restoration of true worship; the deliverance of the anointed remnant, along with their companions, into a spiritual paradise; the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom on a global scale; the appearance of the great crowd.

NO – w93 5/1 p. 12 par. 7 Shedding Light on Christ’s Presence

Each Yearbook of JW’s adds to the evidence that these aspects of the sign are being fulfilled.

YES – w95 9/1 pp. 17-18 par. 17 Christian Witnesses for Divine Sovereignty

Jesus said: “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” Has this prophecy been fulfilled? Indeed, it has.

NO – w97 8/15 p. 14 par. 11 Living for Today or for an Eternal Future?

11 There is also Jesus’ prediction that “this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14) Today, Jehovah’s Witnesses carry out their work in 233 lands, island groups, and territories. True, untouched territories still exist, and perhaps in Jehovah’s due time, a door of opportunity will open.

WILL THERE BE ANOTHER WORLD WAR?

NO – w55 10/15 p. 638 Questions From Readers

But where they really are leading the ‘kings’ (the rulers) of the entire inhabited earth is to the greatest war of all times, not a mere World War III with hydrogen bombs

MAYBE – w59 4/15 p. 229 par. 2 The Perfect Government for All Mankind

Like it or not, all of us are subject to one common danger. This is recognized by the human leaders of the day as being World War III, which will be global in its consequences.

NO – w66 4/1 p. 196 Missionaries to Fill the Need

“Look at what people are facing,” Franz urged. “Not exactly the outbreak of World War III, a battle between men, no, but what you are facing and people in your assignments are facing is foretold in the Word of God.”

MAYBE – w67 12/15 p. 749 par. 22 “In All the Nations the Good News Has to Be Preached First”

What about the possibilities for tribulation, destruction and horror of another world war, with nuclear bombs carried to their targets by long-range missiles

NO – rs p. 240 par. 2 Last Days

The end of the present global system will come, not as a result of indiscriminate slaughter in nuclear war…

POSSIBLY – g81 6/8 p. 11 Hope of Escaping World Destruction

Will this nationalistic “pushing” match result in World War III? Possibly.

NO – w97 4/1 p. 8 Are These Really the Last Days?

If there was a World War III, with all of today’s nuclear powers deploying their weapons, the aftermath would likely find this earth a charred waste… Could wars and pollution simply continue to worsen until man has destroyed himself and this planet? No; for the Bible itself decrees that the earth will last forever.

WHERE DID THE NAME ‘JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ COME FROM?

1911 – H.A. Ironside (Plymouth Brethren) in “Lectures on Daniel the Prophet” when referring to the Jews to whom the promises of Isa.43 would be fulfilled, noted on page 152: “These shall be Jehovah’s witnesses, testifying to the power and glory of the one true God, when apostate Christendom shall have been given up to the strong delusion to believe the lie of the Antichrist.”

1931 – jv chap. 11 p. 152 How We Came to Be Known as Jehovah’s Witnesses

“In contrast, A. H. Macmillan said concerning that announcement by Brother Rutherford: “There is no doubt in my mind—not then nor now—that the Lord guided him in that, and that is the name Jehovah wants us to bear, and we’re very happy and very glad to have it.” Which viewpoint do the facts support? Was the name ‘a stroke of genius’ on the part of Brother Rutherford, or was it the result of divine providence?

… therefore we joyfully embrace and take the name which the mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah’s witnesses.“

w80 2/1 p. 11 The Divine Name in Later Times

Interestingly, Raymundus Martini, a Spanish [Catholic] monk of the Dominican order, first rendered the divine name as “Jehova.” This appeared in his book Pugeo Fidei, published in 1270 C.E.— 750 years ago.

(Isaiah 62:2) “And you will be called by a new name, Which Jehovah’s own mouth will designate.” Note: What does the Bible indicate this name would be?

(Acts 11:26) It was first in Antioch that the disciples were by divine providence called Christians.

Interestingly, when the name was adopted in 1931, all ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’ were said to be of the anointed (it was prior to the 1935 cut off date). After the two classes were identified in 1935, ONLY the anointed could call themselves ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’. The Great Crowd had to be known by the lesser name ‘Jonadabs’.

WHAT IS THE ‘NEW NAME’ IN ISA 62:2

(Isaiah 62:2) And you will be called by a new name, Which Jehovah’s own mouth will designate.

“Jehovah’s Witnesses” – July 26 1931 convention resolution adopted at Columbus Ohio

“BE IT RESOLVED:… we joyfully embrace and take the name which the mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah’s witnesses.—Isa. 62:2″

“Jehovah’s Witnesses” – w31 9/15 p. 279 therefore we joyfully embrace and take the name which the mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah’s witnesses.-Isa. 43: 10-12; 62: 2;

NOT “Jehovah’s Witnesses” – w57 10/1 p. 607 Questions From Readers we see that these texts in Isaiah [62:2] do not specifically refer to the name “Jehovah’s witnesses”

“Jehovah’s Witnesses” – w85 5/15 p. 17 par. 18 The Finest Friendship Endures in an Unfriendly World So, in the spirit of Isaiah 62:2, God’s spirit-begotten organization, gathered in convention at Columbus,

Ohio, in 1931, joyfully adopted the name “Jehovah’s witnesses.”

“Jehovah’s Witnesses” – w87 5/1 p. 28 Looking Back Over 93 Years of Living

And how thrilling it was for me to be at the Columbus, Ohio, convention in 1931 when Brother Rutherford submitted the ‘new name’ Jehovah’s Witnesses, and all of us adopted it enthusiastically! Immediately afterward, all the congregations of Jehovah’s people around the globe adopted that ‘new name.’—Compare Isaiah 62:2.

NOT “Jehovah’s Witnesses” – jv (1993) chap. 11 p. 156 How We Came to Be Known…

Although the evidence points persuasively to Jehovah’s direction in selection of the name Jehovah’s

Witnesses, The Watchtower (February 1, 1944, pp. 42-3; October 1, 1957, p. 607) and the book “New Heavens and a New Earth” (pp. 231-7) later pointed out that this name is not the “new name” referred to at Isaiah 62:2

NOT “Jehovah’s Witnesses” – ip-2 (2001) chap. 23 pp. 337-338 “A New Name” 6 What does Jehovah have in mind for Zion, his heavenly “woman,” represented by ancient Jerusalem? He states: “The nations will certainly see your righteousness, O woman, and all kings your glory. And you will actually be called by a new name, which the very mouth of Jehovah will designate.” (Isaiah 62:2)

7 Jehovah now confirms the changed condition of Zion by giving her a new name. That new name signifies the blessed condition and honored status enjoyed by Zion’s earthly children beginning in 537 B.C.E. It shows that Jehovah acknowledges Zion as belonging to him. Today, the Israel of God is thrilled to be the object of Jehovah’s delight in this way, and the other sheep rejoice with them.

HOW LONG TO CREATE MOUNTAIN RANGES?

QUICKLY – w68 7/15 p. 421 Was There an Earthwide Flood?

What tremendous changes occurred in earth’s surface with the fall of this vast canopy of water! This immense weight of water apparently caused a shifting and buckling of earth’s relatively thin crust. Thus, new mountains were thrust upward, old mountains rose to new heights, shallow sea basins were deepened and new shorelines were established.

SLOWLY – g83 3/8 p. 14 Creationism—Is It Scientific?

Their teaching that the earth and even the universe are less than 10,000 years old contradicts all the findings of modern science. They are so far out of step that they invite ridicule from scientists.

Geologists can point to their measurements of geologic processes that extend far beyond that narrow time frame. Ocean sediments have accumulated over far more than 10,000 years. The time to build mountains and wear them down is measured in millions of years. For continents to drift apart and form oceans takes hundreds of millions of years. To say that all of this goes back only 10,000 years is simply absurd in the eyes of geologists.

QUICKLY – (Gods Word – 1989) p. 111-113 pars. 29-32 ‘Science: Has It Proved the Bible Wrong?’

For the Flood to have happened, the pre-Flood sea basins would have to have been shallower, and the mountains lower than they are now… Since the mountains and sea basins rise and fall, it is apparent that at one time the mountains were not as high as they are now and the great sea basins were not as deep.

32 What happened to the floodwaters after the Flood? Movement of these plates can cause changes in the level of the earth’s surface… It is quite likely that—perhaps triggered by the Flood itself—the plates moved, the sea bottom sank, and the great trenches opened, allowing the water to drain off the land.

SHOULD WE USE THE PHRASE “BROTHERS AND SISTERS”?

YES – w50 9/15 p. 327 God’s Blessed Family others are mere babes who must be looked after and cared for by more mature brothers and sisters.

NO – w51 1/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

So in using modern speech in addressing the congregation the word brothers is sufficient, including all present, and makes unnecessary the longer address of “brothers and sisters”.

YES (two weeks later!) – w51 1/15 p. 37 Producing the Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses

It is a thrilling report of a spiritual family of brothers and sisters, a family that is unified by God’s spirit,

IS IT LATER THAN YOU THINK?

IT IS! – w1949 6/1 p.174 Para.5

We had arrived in the middle of their district assembly, which began on Friday, March 4. Brother Knorr was scheduled to talk to the English speaking people of Lima who were interested in the truth. That meeting was held on Saturday afternoon. There were 49 who heard his talk on “It Is Later than You Think!”

IT IS! – w1949 6/15 p.191 Para.9

The brethren and people of good will had been notified that the president of the Society would be with them on the evening of March 16; so that night 64 attended a gathering and packed out the little Kingdom Hall, some standing and some sitting on the stairway, to hear “It Is Later than You Think!”

IT IS! – w1949 7/1 p.204 Para.7

The public meeting had been advertised for 8 p.m. … Brother Knorr spoke on “It Is Later than You Think!”

IS IT? – g68 10/8 p. 24 Cover Page “Is It Later Than You Think?”

IS IT? – w91 4/1 p. 7 Is It Later Than You Think?

But time is running out; it is later than they think. Is it later than you think?

IS IT? – km 2/12 p. 4 Announcements

The special talk will be given on the weekend after the Memorial and is entitled “Is It Later Than You

Think?”. (Talk No. 181- TO BE COVERED IN 30 MINUTES 2011 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society)

HOW LONG IS A CREATIVE DAY?

• Zions Watchtower Dec 1881 The Creative Week

“If the seventh period of creation in which the Father rested is seven thousand years long–as shown above –so are the other six periods; and so we have seven times seven thousand years…”

• w51 1/1 p. 27 The Christian’s Sabbath

7,000 years for each of the creative days as well as the rest day is consistent with the Scriptures.

• w54 8/1 p. 478 The Purpose of Your Witnessing

Each creative day was 7,000 years in length. See “New Heavens and a New Earth”, pages 40-43.

• g82 11/8 pp. 6-9 Science and the Bible

The Bible record, together with verifiable history, indicates that the seventh day of that creative week covers a period of 7,000 years. Hence, each of the six preceding “days” would be of the same length.

• w87 1/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers a study of the fulfillment of Bible prophecy and of our location in the stream of time strongly indicate

that each of the creative days is 7,000 years long.

• w93 1/1 p. 4 Our Grand Creator and His Works

In an orderly sequence of six ‘creative days,’ each thousands of years in length

• w96 4/1 p. 13 par. 10 Praise the King of Eternity!

Wonderful developments took place on earth during the six creative “days” of Genesis chapter 1, each day covering thousands of years.

• w03 2/1 p. 4 How to Cultivate a Balanced View of Work at the end of the six creative “days,” or long periods of time, “God saw everything he had made and,

look! it was very good”

• g03 9/22 p. 21 Science Was My Religion the creative days lasted aeons

• g04 1/22 p. 23 Why I Believe the Bible—A Nuclear Scientist Tells His Story the creative “days” encompass thousands of years

• w04 4/1 p. 6 Identifying the Wild Beast and Its Mark

God’s creative week comprises seven ‘days,’ or extended time periods

• w04 1/1 p. 28 par. 3 Highlights From the Book of Genesis—I the six creative “days,” or time periods of special creative works

• w11 2/15 p. 8 par. 10 Holy Spirit—At Work in Creation!

These are not 24-hour days but are epochs.

• g11/11 p. 9 Which Approach Is More Reasonable?

Each day evidently involved a considerable length of time.

• g14/3 p. 5 How Long Did God Take To Create The Universe?

each of the six creative days could have lasted for thousands of years.

Note: Why has this view changed? It is not because of a revealing of new light by Gods Holy Spirit, but it is due to the incontrovertible discoveries of science. Holy Spirit should have known this all along, but perhaps it was just the speculations of ill informed men all along.

WHO DOES NABOTH REPRESENT?

JESUS – w32 1/7 p. 201

“Naboth foreshadowed Christ Jesus”

ANOINTED REMNANT – 1961 Let Your Name Be Sanctified ch.17 para.19

“The remnant of Jehovah’s anointed witnesses, like Naboth, produced the fruitage of Jehovah’s spiritual vineyard”

NOT JESUS OR THE ANOINTED – w2015 3/15 p.10 para.11

“That righteous man [Naboth] died, not because he was a prophetic type of Jesus or of the anointed, but because he was an integrity keeper.”

FIELD SERVICE IS VOLUNTARY AND PUBLISHERS DO NOT REPRESENT THE WTBTS

You are first interviewed: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will book p.79

“The presiding overseer will arrange to have two elders (one being a member of the congregation service committee) discuss the matter with you and the bible student.”

You must qualify: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will book page 81

“Once the elders determine that the bible student qualifies to engage in the field ministry, he is eligible to receive his own copy of Organized to do Jehovah’s will book”

The WT has minimum requirements to meet: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will book page 87

“Auxiliary, regular, and special pioneers as well as missionaries have hour requirements to meet.

Congregation publishers are likewise encouraged to put the Kingdom interest first and exert themselves in the ministry to accomplish all that they can in the field according to their circumstances”

The WT has rules to cater for exceptions: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will book page 87 “Time spent in the field service should be reported in full hours. An exception to this is made when a publisher is very limited because of advanced age, is shut in , is confined to a nursing home, or is otherwise incapacitated. Such a publisher may report field service in 15-minute increments rather than in the full hours. Even if he gives a witness for just 15 minutes during a month, He should report this time so that he can continue to be counted as a regular Kingdom Publisher“

The WT’s elders uphold the rules: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will Book page 87

“This provision is made, however, only for those who are very limited in their activity. The congregation service committee will determine whether a publisher qualifies for this arrangement. “

The WT train you: km 3/04 p. 4 par. 3 A Cavalry Charge That Involves You

By means of the Theocratic Ministry School and other congregation meetings, God’s ministers have been trained to speak God’s message with authority.

And equip you: km 3/04 p. 4 par. 6 A Cavalry Charge That Involves You

Trained, well equipped to deliver God’s message, and working under angelic direction, Jehovah’s people are an irresistible force. Let us continue to play our part in the fulfillment of this thrilling prophetic vision.

And organise you: km 7/12 p. 5 par. 4 Before Preaching, You May Need to Search the body of elders, particularly the service overseer, should organize and oversee the search work

And tell you what to wear: km 3/96 p. 3 par. 6 Preparation—Key to Success

In addition to preparing and practicing your presentation, you should also ask yourself, ‘Is the clothing that I plan to wear suitable for the ministry?’

Then you must report back to the WT: Organized to do Jehovah’s Will book page 86 “It is important to submit an accurate report of Hours in field Service.”

BUT you are not representatives: km 2/89 pp. 3-4 Our Identification as Jehovah’s Witnesses

Therefore, publishers do well to avoid representing themselves as agents or representatives of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., or any other corporation used by “the faithful and discreet slave” to advance Kingdom interests.—Matt. 24:45-47… If any publishers use a personal name card in connection with their field service activities, they should not print thereon that they are representatives of the Watchtower Society.

You are not affiliated: km 4/09 p. 4 Question Box

Congregations or individuals should not use logos or names of the organization’s legal entities, or variations thereof, on their Kingdom Halls, signs, letterhead, personal objects, and so forth. Such use of the organization’s logos may cause confusion for public officials, publishers, and others about the legal affiliation of the congregation with the organization’s legal entities.

Only the paid ministers are representatives: yb70 p. 315 1969—A Year of Praise

The WTB&TS gives financial assistance to the circuit and district servants, special pioneers and missionaries around the world. We very much appreciate the assistance that the congregation publishers gave the travelling representatives of the Society by entertaining them in their homes wherever possible.

You are on your own and are personally liable: BoE letter July 15 2014 Para. 4

Any application to use a mobile cart or to set up a table or kiosk to display literature must be filled out in the name of an individual publisher, not in the name of the congregation, any corporation used by the organization, or “Jehovah’s Witnesses.” If a small administrative fee is needed in order to acquire space in a public area, it is to be paid by the individual publisher, not the congregation. Publishers should carefully review any such applications to see what responsibility they are taking upon themselves with

respect to liability. Publishers who apply to distribute literature at these areas are doing so on their own initiative as part of their personal ministry.

WILL THE MEN OF SODOM AND GOMORRAH BE RESURRECTED?

1879 YES WT July, 1879 p.1

1. ‘UTTER IMPOSSIBILTY’ WT 5/1/51 p.287
2. NO WT 6/1/52 p.338

1965 YES WT 8/1/65 p.479

1967 NO WT 1/7/67 p.409

1974 YES Awake! 8/10/74 p.20

1982 NO You Can Live Forever… p.179 para.9 (Old Edition)

1988 NO WT 6/1/88 p.31

1988 SOME WILL Insight On The Scriptures, Vol.1, p.616 (released June 17th 1988)

1988 YES Insight On The Scriptures, Vol.2, p.985*

1. NO Revelation – Its Grand Climax p.273
2. NO You Can Live Forever… p.179 Para.9 (New Edition)

*Note: Insight vol. 2 p. 985 says it was only the cities that underwent everlasting destruction and not the people, as if the houses, roads and buildings committed the sins! Well I guess this ties in with Jude 1:7 “as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example…”

1935 AND INCREASING MEMORIAL PARTAKERS

w54 3/1 p. 153 par. 16 “Restoration of True Religion Today”

Since this identification, each one in the theocratic organization has known whether he is one of the few “remaining ones” called to the heavenly Royal House or one of those called to the earthly position before the throne. True religion holds both classes in their proper place, both having the hope of life in God’s new world. Since 1935 one class has been decreasing in numbers on earth…

w55 5/15 p. 314 TWELVE REQUIREMENTS FOR CHRISTIAN CHANNEL TODAY

Eleventh, the congregation of Christ must realize a change in her work from that of gathering a little flock for heavenly privileges to that of gathering out the “other sheep” to become prospective Kingdom subjects to live happily forever on a paradise earth that is destined to continue unendingly in fulfillment of the great Abrahamic promise. Only the anointed remnant have experienced this since the years 1932 and 1935.

w70 12/1 p. 732 Teaching All Nationalities with a View to Baptism

Since it appears from the facts that the ones eligible for the heavenly kingdom were for the time completed in number by about 1935, does that mean that those baptized since then are baptized as being of the “great crowd” of “other sheep”? No… But at this time when it is principally to an earthly hope that God is pointing those who become his servants, what if anyone recently baptized should suddenly conclude that he or she was spirit-begotten? It would be well for such a one to do some self-examination as to whether that conclusion was truly based on the witness or the testimony of God’s spirit.

Watchtower 1995 Feb 15 p.19

“Logically, the calling of the little flock would draw to a close when the number was nearing completion, and the evidence is that the general gathering of these specially blessed ones ended in 1935.“

Watchtower 1996 Aug 15 p.31

“There is every reason to believe that the number of anointed ones will continue to decline as advanced age and unforeseen occurrences end their earthly lives.”

WT2000 Jan 15 p.13 “Six Convincing Lines of Evidence” that we are in the Last Days.

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.”

Watchtower 2007 May 1 p.31

“Thus it appears that we cannot set a specific date for when the calling of Christians to the heavenly hope ends.”

Watchtower 2011 Aug 15 p.22 (Note: the number of partakers had been increasing for 6 years!)

“Memorial partakers. This is the number of baptized individuals who partake of the emblems at the Memorial worldwide. Does this total represent the number of anointed ones on earth? Not necessarily. A number of factors — including past religious beliefs or even mental or emotional imbalance — might cause some to assume mistakenly that they have the heavenly calling.

(Note: ALL of the current Governing Body (7 persons as at 2015) were born AFTER the 1935 ‘cut off’) See CHART on next page for details on increasing partakers.

KINGDOM INCREASE CHART

Increasing membership numbers have historically been used by the WT to prove they are blessed by God and are the one true religion. They will never answer the question “What about the other religions which have higher growth?”.

Yearbooks indicate that WT is experiencing a levelling off of growth, with it taking 7,429 hours of field service to recruit each new candidate in 2015, which will probably be the child of a practising JW anyway.

The yearly %ge increase now closely matches the world’s population increase (1.2%), so JW’s are actually not noticeably increasing as a %ge of world population.

The recent drive to baptise ever younger children* is artificially raising the membership figures, but as the aged ones slow down and die off and the younger ones grow and choose to leave, the field service activity is bringing in so few that decline is inevitable in the coming years.

When this decline occurs, WT will say this ‘refining’ is an indication of how they are blessed by God and are the one true religion.

RED figures indicate a problem. Either a decrease (slowing down) compared to the previous year or an increase of partakers.

In 2015, compared to the previous service year, there was a recorded decrease in the total hours spent on the ministry, the number baptised, the average number of publishers per congregation, and the number who attended the memorial. The increases in peak and average publishers was also less than the year before.

By contrast, over the same period there was an increase in the number of hours it takes to convert one person to baptism, and in the number of actual partakers at the memorial.

The above chart tells us that in 2015 it required more than 1.9 billion hours of worldwide effort to increase the total (peak) publishers by just 18,500 persons. That’s over 104,000 hours of effort for each person increase.

That’s the equivalent of 10 congregations each with 100 publishers all doing 8 hours per month, all year, to increase by net one person, most of whom are children raised as JW’s anyway.

*See w2016 March p.1 Par.18

“A 24-year-old brother who got baptized before he was a teenager says: “…making the decision to

dedicate myself to Jehovah protected me from worldly pursuits.”

HOW MANY ‘KEYS OF THE KINGDOM’?

TWO – w66 2/15 p. 126 Does Peter Now Use the Keys of the Kingdom?

Jehovah had divided up mankind into just two classes: the Jews, whom he dealt with as his special people, and the people of the nations, the Gentiles. So only two keys were needed.

AT LEAST TWO – w79 10/1 p. 18 par. 12 The “Keys” of the Greatest Government Put to Use

Peter had been promised, not one key, but “the keys of the kingdom of the heavens.” This meant at least two keys.

THREE – w08 5/15 p. 30 Highlights From the Book of Acts

Peter uses the third key, and the free gift of the holy spirit is poured out upon uncircumcised people of the nations.

WHO IS “THE TRUE LORD?” (Mal 3:1)

Jehovah God – w76 1/15 p. 41 par. 5 The “Ax” and the Chopper

Jehovah God – w80 2/15 p. 12 par. 18 Joyful Festivals

Jesus Christ – w80 7/15 p. 19 par. 10 The “Fine Shepherd” and the “Little Flock”

Jehovah God – w07 4/1 p. 22 par. 4 Loyal to Christ and His Faithful Slave

Jesus Christ – w13 7/15 p. 8 par. 17 “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?”

Note: The Revised NWT quotes Malachi saying “the true Lord” but no other translation inserts the extra word ‘true‘. This makes you think it is talking about Jehovah and not Jesus. At least the older NWT used brackets to indicate this word was inserted without being in the actual text, saying “the [true] Lord”!

TO WHOM DOES 2COR 11:13 APPLY?

(2Co 11:13) ‘For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.’

Misinformed religionists – w51 5/15 p. 309 par. 10 Leaves of Healing

False apostles in the congregation – w51 5/1 p. 272 par. 13 The Prayer of Faith During Sickness

Those in the Lord’s organization – w52 8/15 p. 501 par. 16 God’s Spirit Essential to Maturity

The clergy in general – w53 5/1 p. 263 “Keeping a Tight Grip on the Word of Life”

Spiritualists – w56 2/15 p. 112 par. 13 Triumphing over Wicked Spirit Forces

Satan’s ministers – w57 9/15 p. 550 The Great Contest

False religious guides – w57 8/15 p. 503 par. 14 The Fight of Faith of the Peaceable Roman Catholic priests – w58 9/15 p. 574 Is Catholic Action Christian?

Jesus’ appointed overseers – w58 1/15 p. 47 par. 25 Overseers in Apocalyptic Times

The leaders of Christendom – w60 7/15 p. 420 The Truth Shall Stand

Religious zealots – w61 8/1 p. 454 Satan—the Genius of Deception

Religious Christendom – w61 7/1 p. 398 par. 27 Right Associations Lead to Life

The Pope – w68 7/15 p. 446 The Pope Is Not Infallible

Supposedly Christian religions – w68 3/1 p. 136 The Devil Is “the Ruler of the World”

False religious organizations – w69 2/15 p. 103 The Last Days of This Wicked System of Things Congregation of God’s people – w72 3/15 p. 192 Questions From Readers Christendom – w75 12/1 p. 729 par. 5 What Does It Mean to Be a “Minister”?

Religious leaders – w75 4/15 p. 253 Rebellion Against God Comes to Light Ambitious men – w78 5/1 p. 22 par. 5 “Roll Your Works upon Jehovah”

Fellow worshipers of Jehovah – w79 8/15 p. 4 To Whom Does It Apply?

Present-day Christendom – w81 5/1 p. 14 par. 9 Which Organization—Jehovah’s or Satan’s?

The members of Jehovah’s family – w82 6/1 p. 19 par. 13 Loyally Submitting to Theocratic Order

Seemingly benevolent religious and political fronts – w83 6/15 p. 26 Insight on the News

False brothers in the congregation – w84 2/1 p. 23 par. 8 ‘Oneness of Spirit’ in a Rapidly Growing Flock Apostates – w86 3/15 p. 14 par. 15 ‘Do Not Be Quickly Shaken From Your Reason’ The Christian congregation – w88 9/1 p. 3 Satan—Is He Real?

Apostates – w90 8/15 p. 16 par. 6 Loyally Working With Jehovah

False religion – w90 2/1 p. 24 par. 17 Exposing “the Man of Lawlessness”

The clergy – w90 2/1 p. 11 par. 10 Identifying “the Man of Lawlessness”

The clergy class of Christendom – w94 7/1 p. 5 A Divided Church—Can It Survive?

The “evil slave,” – w00 10/15 p. 9 Should You Investigate Other Religions?

Apostates – w02 3/1 p. 11 par. 14 Divine Light Dispels Darkness!

Propagandists – w03 7/15 p. 22 Think Straight—Act Wisely

False brothers – w03 5/15 p. 11 par. 6 Christ Speaks to the Congregations

“Babylon the Great” – w06 12/1 p. 6 The Antichrist Exposed

Churches of Christendom – w06 9/1 p. 5 Religion—What Good Does It Do? False religion – w12 5/1 p. 16 What Is the Good News About Religion?

CAN JOIN THE ARMY?

YES – w1903 4/15 p. 120 “There could be nothing against our consciences in going into the army”

NO – w51 2/1 p.73 “Due to conscience, Jehovah’s Witnesses must refuse military service”

ALTERNATIVE MILITARY SERVICE

Not Allowed – w86 9/1 p. 20 par. 16 Christian Neutrals in a Bloodstained World

Whether the issue was shedding blood, noncombatant military work, alternative service, or saluting an image such as a national flag, faithful Christians took the position that there was no middle ground. In some cases they were executed because of this stand.

Conscience matter – w96 5/1 p. 19 par. 15-16 Paying Back Caesar’s Things to Caesar

What, though, if the Christian lives in a land where exemption [from military service] is not granted to ministers of religion? Then he will have to make a personal decision following his Bible-trained conscience. 16.

Could a dedicated Christian undertake such [civilian] service? Here again, a dedicated, baptized Christian would have to make his own decision on the basis of his Bible-trained conscience.

Allowed – (2008) God’s Love p. 215 Flag Salute, Voting, and Civilian Service

If a Christian conscientiously concludes that he could perform civilian service rather than go to prison, fellow Christians should respect his decision.

Note: What about those who were executed or imprisoned prior to 1986 for refusing non-military service?

w55 9/15 p. 557 Part 18—Second World War’s Christian Neutrals in British Commonwealth

Military exemption was refused to the brothers by many of the judges at the tribunals. This meant that 1,593 convictions followed, with total prison-sentence time exceeding six centuries. Of these, 344 were convictions of women who, equally with men, were required to spend time in prison for failing to accept national direction to perform war duties

w61 4/15 p. 247 Deliverance from Totalitarian Inquisition Through Faith in God

“When the war broke out the Witnesses at Sachsenhausen concentration camp were invited to volunteer for military service. Each refusal was followed by the shooting of ten men from their ranks.

w66 10/15 p. 611 Greece Threatens Legalized Murder

ON August 8, 1966, twenty-two-year-old Christos Kazanis was sentenced to death by a military court in Athens, Greece. This sentence came after Kazanis had already served a two-year prison term for conscientious objection!

w66 10/1 p. 588 Mock Trial of Christians—The Shame of Portugal!

Are women with minor children and old men going to be brought to trial, sentenced and thrown into prison because someone in their congregation refuses military service? This is what is happening to Jehovah’s witnesses!

w75 7/15 p. 425 Steadfast Despite Persecution by the Clergy, Nazis and Communists

He was called to military service, refused to take up arms and was sentenced to death. In February 1943 he was executed on the guillotine in the prison of Brandenburg.

w78 10/1 p. 23 Deliverance! Proving Ourselves Grateful

Emma was put into the Schirmeck concentration camp in Alsace. On her arrival she was commanded to mend military clothing, which she refused to do. She was thrown into solitary confinement in the prison basement for seven months

w85 10/1 p. 23 My Ten Years in Spain’s Military Prisons

One of the brothers was condemned to a total of 26 years in prison—all for refusing 18 months of military service!

w95 10/1 p. 20 Following in My Parents’ Footsteps the court-martial sentenced him to five years in the British military prison in Rouen. He was punished

with three months on bread and water, followed by regular prison diet until his weight increased; then the whole process was repeated. He was handcuffed with his hands behind his back by day and with his hands in front during the night and at mealtimes. All his life, he bore scars on his wrists where the handcuffs that were too small had been clipped into his flesh.

w96 11/1 p. 24 More Than 50 Years of ‘Stepping Over’

I was condemned to death, but because of a legal flaw, to my great relief, this sentence was commuted to ten years at hard labor.

w04 12/1 p. 28 Trusting in Jehovah’s Loving Care

In the winter of 1941, my mother and other female Witnesses in the camp refused to do work for the military. As punishment, they were made to stand in the cold for 3 days and 3 nights, after which they were locked up in dark cells and put on starvation rations for 40 days. Then they were flogged. Mother died on January 31, 1942, three weeks after a savage beating.

BLACK PEOPLE ARE FROM THE CURSE OF NOAH’S TIME

YES – Golden Age, July 24th 1929:

NO – w53 8/1 p. 478 Questions From Readers

Incidentally, when some try to say this curse caused some men to be black-skinned they show ignorance of the Bible record, for colored peoples did not descend from the cursed Canaan.

NO – g75 10/8 p. 11 A Book of Myths or a Misrepresented Guide?

The man Noah pronounced a prophetic curse on his grandson Canaan, but no divine curse was ever pronounced upon the black race.

Ridicule the Catholics for saying the same thing 100 years ago, that the WT had said just 48 years earlier: Awake! 1977 10/8 p. 29 – Even up to a hundred years ago the Catholic Church held the view that blacks were cursed by God. . . . What great harm has resulted from the misapplication by churchmen of this Biblical curse! The slavery of African blacks, and their mistreatment since the days of slavery, can in no way be justified by the Bible. The truth is, blacks are not, and never were, cursed by God!

Finally adding: Awake! 1982 2/8 p. 14

“How foolish it is to interpret God’s curse on Canaan as referring to a dark-skinned people.”

WT VIEW OF MODERN JEWS

• w1902 7/15 p.215-216 par.10 the only nation whose ancestors can be traced unblemished back to these heads of the race,-the Jews. We may suppose that they were neither as white as some of us, nor as black as the negro, but of a swarthy, tawny color. If this be true, the extreme whiteness of some peoples is not to be considered the original standard, but a deflection on the one side, as the negro and others are deflections on the other side.

• Golden Age 1927 2/23 p. 342 A Righteous Government

Doubtless many of you have heard that the Jews shall again rule the earth. This has been much misunderstood. Not every man who is a descendent of Abraham is a Jew, by any means. Be it known once and for all that those profiteering, conscienceless, selfish men who call themselves Jews, and who control the greater portion of the finances of the world and the business of the world, will never be the rulers in this new earth. God would not risk such selfish men with such an important position.

• Golden Age 1935 10/9 p. 26 Making America Fascist

The Jews are money-lovers, granted; but they are not pig-headed wild beasts.

WT VIEW OF THE SPANISH

–Golden Age 1927 Nov 30th p,141

“Centuries before, anticipating the settlement of North America by a liberty-loving people, Satan had sought to forestall it through the voyages of Columbus and the resulting effort to people it with Spaniards and other backward races under the influence of Rome.”

WT VIEW OF THE IRISH

• w58 8/1 p. 460 Dawns a New Era for the Irish

“The Irish, however, are a dubious lot.”

WT VIEW OF BLACK PEOPLE

w1889 Sep Vol X No.11 p. 1 R1142

The Negroes of the South were probably happier fifty years ago, in slavery, than they now are.

Later reversing this to: w01 12/1 p. 4 The Golden Rule—A Universal Teaching

Throughout history, there have been cases of crimes against humanity in which the rights of people were totally ignored. These include the slave trade out of Africa…

w1898 Aug 1 Vol XIX p. 230 R2344

The negro race is supposed to be descended from Ham whose special degradation is mentioned in Gen 9

w1902 7/15 p.215-216 par.10

We are not to forget, either, that Africa is inhabited by various tribes or nations of negroes – some more and some less degraded than the average.

w1904 Feb 15 pg 52-3 Black people will be made perfect and white in the new system:

“Can The Ethiopian Change His skin color? …what the Ethiopian cannot do for himself God could readily do for him. The doctrine of restitution has also raised the question. How could all men be brought to perfection and which color of skin was the original? The answer is now provided. God can change the Ethiopian’s skin in his own due time. Julius Jackson, of New Frankfort, Montana, a negro boy of nine years, began to grow white in September, 1901, and is now fully nine-tenths white. He assures us that this is no whitish skin disease; but that the new white skin is as healthy as that of any white boy, and that the changed boy has never been sick and never has taken medicines.”

w1908 April 1 Vol.XXIX No.7 p.99 R4159

The negro and Latin races will probably always be inclined to superstition.

Golden Age 1926 May 5th p. 483. Races of the British Empire

— OF THE grand total of the population of the British Empire, which is calculated to be 463,000,000, only one person in seven is of European stock. The remaining 397,000,000 are governed only by the superior mental, moral or physical force of their white rulers. This superiority is disappearing and the powers of the colored races are expanding.

— w1946 3/1 p.80

This white man invited the colored man to his home and became interested and wants him to keep coming. He even served the darky his supper.

— w54 6/1 p. 350 The Mind of the African

The African mind has one obvious characteristic: it is childish and imitative. The visits of African circuit servants are doing much to set a good example. What could help much would be for African brothers to mix socially with the European brothers. This is ruled out by the strict segregation arrangements in South Africa.

WT VIEW OF CHINESE

• w1902 7/15 p.215-216 par.8

In considering this matter we are not to forget the strong pre-natal influence of the mother’s mind upon her offspring, co-operating with the influences of climate and soil. To illustrate:

Suppose a missionary and his wife removed to China; not only would the influence of the climate and soil be manifested upon themselves, but the same would be still more manifested in their children. Whoever will give careful attention to this matter will notice that each succeeding child born in that foreign country will have increasingly more resemblance to the Chinese–the hair, the skin, the shape of the eyes, and in general all features will bear closer resemblance with each succeeding child. We can readily suppose that if so much change occurs in a few years, ten or twenty centuries under similar conditions would turn any white people into regular Chinese, even supposing there were no intermarrying. The mother, while carrying her unborn child, has continually before her the Chinese type of countenance–eyes, hair, color. etc., and the continual impress of these upon her mind could not fail, according to the law of our being, to influence her offspring in the manner noted.

• w1947 7/1 p. 208

Some have said, ‘You can put anything on a coolie’s shoulder and he’ll carry it.’ They do not appear to be able to lift with their hands and arms, but they have strong legs and backs.

WT VIEW OF WOMEN

• g1937 27/1 p.259-260

God made man to perform the most intricate and difficult tasks in life; his wife to be a help, suitable to her less exacting sphere. It is no reflection upon the fair sex to record the simple truth that the finest surgical work is done by men. … At Sanford, Maine, is a factory for the making of the finest, most costly, most luxurious velvets… No woman has ever been able to qualify for the job.

w55 4/1 p. 213 par. 16 Theocratic Conduct Within the Family Circle

The woman is “to manage a household.” As long as she does it properly the husband should be pleased to let her use her own initiative in this respect.

w62 8/1 p. 463 par. 4 Role of Wife and Children in a Happy Family

Further, many authorities recognize the subservient role of the wife and the helpful position she can occupy toward her husband. … Thus the supervision of women by men seems to be nature’s plan, however desperately women may fight it.

w64 3/15 p. 173 par. 5 Faithful Women Ministers—A Blessing to the New World Society

A woman who rejects the setting Jehovah has designed for her and who seeks to compete with man as head loses her beauty as a woman. She is no longer “the feminine one.”

Samuel Herd (GB member) Talk in San Francisco (1971?) – The value of our Theocratic Sisters

“You know, scientists say that the cranial capacity of a woman is 10% smaller than that of a man. So now this shows that she’s just not equipped for the role of headship. Her role is one of subjection to the man.”

w80 5/15 p. 8 Why “Be in Subjection”?

Because of her vicissitudes or cyclic emotional nature her husband is required to show patience, kindness, consideration. This is demonstrated when he, time and again, waits for her to get ready or finds himself needing to adjust his wishes or preferences to his wife’s wishes, whims or limitations.

w84 1/15 p. 16 par. 16 Christian Modesty—Proof of Wisdom

Being aware of her limitations and the role assigned to her in the congregation, the Christian woman who is wise will modestly control her speech. She will keep from being overly talkative and from expressing criticism of the way the appointed elders are handling matters.

w91 1/15 p. 30 Hold Faith and a Good Conscience

Through childbearing, caring for her children, and managing a household, a woman would be “kept safe” from becoming an unoccupied gossiper and meddler in other people’s affairs.

DO WE VINDICATE OR SANCTIFY GODS NAME?

VINDICATE – w1921 12/15, p.381

VINDICATE – w1930 1/1 p.6 – It’s God’s primary purpose

VINDICATE – w1930 11/1 p.326 – It’s the purpose of the Kingdom

VINDICATE – w1930 12/1 p.354 – The scriptures clearly teach it is the great issue before all creation

VINDICATE – W1931 10/15, p. 310 – It’s the greatest of all doctrines

SANCTIFY – w51 8/15 p. 492 par. 13 – As God’s children we can, of course, sanctify his name in our lives

VINDICATE – w52 9/15 p. 552 – Soon that kingdom will vindicate Jehovah’s name

SANCTIFY – 1961 book entitled “Let Your Name Be Sanctified”

VINDICATE – w66 4/1 p. 196 – Jesus was sent to the earth to vindicate God’s name

SANCTIFY – w69 4/15 p. 229 – A further requirement of true religion is that it must sanctify God’s name.

VINDICATE – w70 3/15 p. 178 par. 21 – The kingdom will vindicate his name and purposes.

SANCTIFY – 1973 God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years – Jehovah will sanctify his worthy name.

VINDICATE – w1981 12/1 – the entire theme of the Bible is the vindication of God’s name

SANCTIFY AND VINDICATE – 1988 Insight Vol. 1, p. 311 – God’s purpose to sanctify and vindicate that name before all creation…

SANCTIFY – 1993 Proclaimers Of God’s Kingdom, p. 124 – discontinue using the old “vindication of

Jehovah’s name” by substituting “sanctification of Jehovah’s name”

SANCTIFY – May 15, 1995 Watchtower – Discontinue the use of “vindication of Jehovah’s name”

VINDICATE – Oct 2017 Annual Meeting – Geoffrey Jackson

SHOULD YOU TAKE ASPIRIN?

NO – g1935 2/27 pp.343, 344

“Aspirin causes heart disease”

YES – g2003 9/8 p. 28 Watching the World

“Giving patients aspirin in the first 48 hours after heart bypass surgery can greatly reduce their risk of death and serious complications involving the heart, brain, kidneys and digestive tract.” So says a study reported on in The New York Times.

WILL “EVERY EYE” SEE JESUS (REV 1:7)?

NO – w07 3/15 p. 5 What Christ’s Coming Will Accomplish

With regard to Christ’s coming, the Bible says: “Look! He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him.” (Revelation 1:7) People will not see him with their literal eyes.

YES – w94 2/15 p. 20 par. 21 “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?”

When Jesus comes with clouds of invisibility, opposing humans worldwide will have to recognize that “coming” because of a supernatural demonstration of his kingly power.—Revelation 1:7.

NO – w93 5/1 p. 22 par. 6 Deliverance at the Revelation of Jesus Christ Oh, those enemies will not actually see Jesus with literal eyes

YES – w81 12/1 p. 8 Could Christ Return Without Being Seen?

Jesus himself spelled it out clearly, saying: “Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will beat themselves in lamentation, and they will see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” That obligatory recognition of Christ’s presence will come too late for their good. This will mean destruction for those who have not paid heed.— Matt. 24:30; Rev. 1:7; 11:18.

NO – w74 12/15 p. 751 Who Will See “the Sign of the Son of Man”?

When he comes “with the clouds, and every eye will see him” he will be invisible to fleshly eyes. (Rev. 1:7)

YES – w66 1/15 p. 40 “The Sign of the Son of Man”

The day will come when “every eye” must see this “sign,” as Revelation 1:7 indicates.

NO – w53 7/15 p. 447 Questions From Readers

If Christ came in a human body certainly not every eye on earth could see him at once; so that must not be literal.

YES – 1877 Object and Manner p. 39

This scripture does not necessarily teach that every eye will see Him at the same moment. A similar statement is made of the Resurrection. “All that are in their graves hear the voice of the Son of Man and come forth.”

WAS THE WT EXPECTING PERSECUTION, OR DEATH, IN 1915?

PERSECUTION – w93 11/1 pp. 9-10 par. 12 Daniel’s Prophetic Days and Our Faith

By the end of the year, the anointed remnant were expecting persecution, as seen from the fact that the yeartext chosen for 1915 was Jesus’ question to his disciples, “Are ye able to drink of my cup?” based on Matthew 20:22, King James Version.

PERSECUTION – 1977 go chap. 8 p. 130 par. 21 Marked Days During the “Time of the End”

Persecution was then expected for the congregations of the International Bible Students, for, under the heading “1915—Our Year Text—1915,” the same issue of The Watch Tower opened up by saying: “We have chosen as a text for the year the Master’s words uttered just before His crucifixion to two of His dear disciples, who had asked to sit with Him in His Throne. We have selected the Master’s reply as the text for this year: ‘Are ye able to drink of My cup?’ “

Note: The reality is that they were not expecting persecution, but had stated for 34 years that they were expecting Armageddon and death by 1915, believing Jesus had already come 40 years earlier in 1874.

The WT misrepresent this expectation in order to look prophetic and profound. Actually they are deceitful.

DEATH – w1914 Dec 15 p. 370 – 1915 YEAR TEXT

As our Year Text we have chosen the Master’s words so full of meaning, “Are ye able to drink of My Cup?” These words gain in force and weight as we ponder them.

DEATH – R5599 p.382 – Our Lord stated the matter very plainly, asking James and John, “Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They did not understand these words in full, but perceived that it meant some kind of death.

DEATH – w1880 June R111 p. 7

“Are ye able to drink of the cup (death) that I shall drink of, and to be baptised with the baptism (death) that I am baptised with?”

ADVICE ON DISEASE, APPENDICITIS, CANCER, BALDNESS, ETC.

— Watchtower Jan 15 1912 (reprints p.4963)

We give below a simple cure for appendicitis symptoms. The pain in the appendix region is caused by the biting of worms near the junction of the transverse colon with the small intestines, low down on the right side of the abdomen. This remedy is recommended also for typhoid fever, which is also a worm disease.

— Watchtower 1913 July 1 p. 200 A Cure for Surface Cancer

We have recently learned of a very effective and simple remedy for cancers which show themselves on the surface of the body. The recipe has come to us free and we are willing to communicate the formula, but only to those who are troubled with surface cancers and who will write to us directly, stating particulars.

— Watchtower 1915 July 15 R5729 : p. 218

We also put in a notice recently about a cure for cancer. We have had hundreds of letters come in from Truth friends, and hundreds from others; and a great many have reported good results. To some extent this has helped forward the Truth. People saw that we were not trying to get their money, saw that we were trying to do them good, and became interested.

–- Watchtower 05/15/1915 (Reprints p. 5689)

One of the simplest we know of for La Grippe and Typhoid Fever, especially in their earlier stages, is to put the bulk of a pea of cayenne pepper into a little milk, stir it thoroughly and swallow it. Do this twice a day for about three days.

— The Golden Age 1919 November 26 p.153

Even years ago it was known by some people that the use of pacifiers (dummies) by babies is one of the chief causes of diseased and enlarged tonsils and adenoid growths, which results from the suction.

— The Golden Age 03/31/1920 pp. 437, 438

Few people know that the normal functioning of the bowels and a clean intestinal tract make it impossible to become sick… From four to six quarts of warm water injected into the colon is what constitutes an internal bath. It should be taken every day for at least six months…

— The Golden Age 23 1/1 p. 214

But the dog-rabies-vaccine imposition is the latest… Rabies! When it has been shown conclusively that there is no such thing as rabies!

— The Golden Age, Jan. 16, 1924, p. 250

It has never been proven that a single disease is due to germs.

— g24 11/19 p. 100 A Glimpse at the World News

The bobbed hair craze is sure to lead to baldness, sooner or later. The reason for this is that human hair is like a tube sealed at the free end. When the hair is cut, the oils which are the life of the hair become dissipated. The reason why men grow bald so quickly is that they have their hair cut so frequently and, in addition, wear tightly fitting hats.

— The Golden Age, April 22, 1925, p. 454

I HAVE named this new discovery, which I believe will be epochal in the history of the treatment of disease, and which I am exclusively announcing in THE GOLDEN AGE prior to its general publication elsewhere, The Electronic Radio Biola, which means life renewed by radio waves or electrons. The Biola automatically diagnoses and treats diseases by the use of the electronic vibrations. The diagnosis is 100 percent correct, rendering better service in this respect than the most experienced diagnostician.

— The Golden Age, Feb. 10, 1926, p.310

Air baths are good for preventing colds… What you do is strip naked mornings and evenings and then bob up and down for a while.

— The Golden Age 1926 Apr 7 p.438

Tonsillectomy is called a minor operation. If so, getting well is a double major. If any overzealous doctor condemns your tonsils go and commit suicide with a case-knife. It’s cheaper and less painful.

— The Golden Age, July 1, 1927

Every bedroom [should receive] at least two hours of sunlight everyday. [This will] kill tuberculosis and other germs.

— The Golden Age, Nov. 28, 1928, p. 133

All human ailments have their start in the intestines.

— The Golden Age 5-29-29, pg 563 “The Grape Cure”.

In case of internal cancer or cancer that has not become active, it has been found very effective….to begin taking a small of grapes every two hours or so throughout the day, not using over two pounds a day for the first day or two, gradually increasing the quantity for a week up to not over four pounds a day. … While the cancer is active and suppurating, the pulp of the grape may be made into a poultice and renewed as frequently as indicated. This poultice will eat its way down into the foreign mass, not injuring normal cells and tissues, however……We suggest changing from one variety of grapes to another, when convenient, although the dark-skinned varieties seem to be the best. But even the little green hot-house grape is better than none to arrest the progress of cancer till another grape season comes in.

— The Golden Age 01/09/1929 p. 245

SO-CALLED medical science has made another “discovery”. That is not extraordinary, for it has made many in ages past and will make many more in ages to come, for “discoveries” are easy to make by an institution founded on ignorance, error, and superstition. Some day so-called medical science will discover that all its “discoveries” have discovered nothing but its own ignorance.

— The Golden Age 1929 November 12 p. 107

If the organs [of your body] are diseased, heal them by correcting your diet. Avoid the use of aluminum cooking utensils and alum baking powders as they are injurious to your health, poisoning your blood stream… Sleep on the right side or flat on your back, with the head toward the north so as to get benefit of the earth’s magnetic currents. Avoid serum inoculations as they pollute the blood stream with their filthy pus…. Stop chewing gum, as you need the saliva for your food.

— The Golden Age 1933 September 13 p.777

The earlier in the forenoon you take the sun bath, the greater will be the beneficial effect, because you get more of the ultra-violet rays, which are healing.

— Golden Age 1931/1934 December 19 p.187

Appendicitis: Take one ounce each of elder blossom, peppermint and yarrow and simmer in three pints of water. Take a wineglassful every 15 minutes. Do not be afraid of the perspiration caused, or if you vomit.

— w1935 2/15 p.345

Investigation proved conclusively that the orthodox medical profession is acquainted with the deadly poisonous effects of aspirin. Pharmaceutical houses put out literature warning against prescribing the drugs. Many patients, after teeth have been extracted and tonsils removed, find their pains continue. Aspirin is indeed frequently prescribed as a cure. The writer believes that the menace [of aspirin] has become so great that the evil should be known by all.

— The Golden Age, July 5, 1935, p. 632

I personally know of more than one being relieved of liver trouble, and even cured of gall stones, by the use of olive oil…. A friend who for years has suffered pain in the region of the appendix was entirely relieved by the oil treatments.

— The Golden Age 1936 September 23 p.828

Do not use X-Rays… they are destructive and sure to harm the grandchildren of those exposed to them.

— w1937 27/1 p.260

Women’s hands have grown appreciably larger since the World War… The enlargement of the feminine hand is charged to automobile driving, tennis and golf.

— Watchtower 1952 February 1 pp.95-6 Questions from Readers

For the sake of the record, let us say that we are not medical advisers. We are not professionally trained doctors, and do not advise on health matters except as they may involve Scriptural issues, such as in the case of blood transfusions. (Note: And even that advice changes.)

— w54 6/1 p. 331 “Your Adversary, the Devil”

As regards Jesus contact with these demons, while many books have been written endeavoring to explain demon obsession as being merely psychiatric cases, insanity, epilepsy or fits, yet a careful Biblical examination allows for no such construction.

— w75 8/1 p. 480 Questions From Readers

We should keep in mind that the human body is a harmonious whole, with all the members thereof being dependent on one another. Therefore, emotions, feelings, desires and the like cannot entirely be limited to any one specific organ such as the brain, heart or kidneys.

— w88 10/15 p. 29 Mental Distress—When It Afflicts a Christian

The Society does not recommend or pass judgment upon the various medications and treatments employed by physicians. Research in the Society’s publications may, nevertheless, prove helpful.

SHOULD YOU HAVE YOUR TONSILS OUT?

YES – The Golden Age 10/01/1919 p. 19

Stupid children require attention for a different reason. It has been estimated that from 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 American school children have adenoids, diseased tonsils and other glandular defects, which are making them appear stupid and are causing them to be backward in school. The child troubled with adenoids breathes through his mouth, and a lax lower jaw and vacant, sleepy eyes gives an unmistakable expression of stupidity and dullness. The transformation in such children when the adenoids, by a slight operation, are removed, is often very rapid. The child with adenoids is stupid and sleepy, because he is not getting enough oxygen, and his blood is consequently laden with impurities and the cells of his the brain are not properly nourished.

NO – The Golden Age 11/28/1928 p. 142

ONCE a year there is a wholesale removal of the tonsils of all new inmates of the Odd Fellows Home at Corsicana, Texas. The man who cuts out these tonsils probably feels that he is improving upon the work of the Creator in the original design of these children, but as a matter of fact he is lessening their powers of resistance against disease and positively harming them.

NO, IT LEADS TO SPEECH IMPEDIMENTS – g72 6/8 p. 31 Watching the World

Removal in some cases can lead to speech impediments, they suggest.

WT VIEW OF PSYCHIATRY

SHUN IT – w52 1/15 p. 53 God’s Word a Sure Guide

So we must shun the false guides of men and their false religions, babbling psychologists, wordy psychiatrists and polluted politicians, all of which have built up such tremendous reputations as colossal failures. Look at the messes they have made, know them by their rotten fruits, reject them for their fruits.

GIVES QUOTABLE ADVICE – w54 6/1 pp. 323-324 Man Created with Urge to Worship

The article’s subtitle said: “We all feel an urge for God as powerful as our instincts for sex and hunger, says a daring new school of psychiatric thought.” Extracts from the article follow.

COMPARABLE TO GAMBLING – w56 11/1 p. 664 par. 5 Turn to the New World Society

The theocratic servants neither claim nor attempt to lead their flocks in politics, social reform, psychiatry, gambling or pagan religious doctrines and practices.

GIVES QUOTABLE ADVICE – w56 4/15 p. 231 “They Are Without Excuse”

“We all feel an urge for God as powerful as our instinct for sex and hunger, says a daring new school of psychiatric thought.”

NOT THE ANSWER – w56 3/15 p. 163 Peace of Mind Through Accurate Knowledge

HOW can you protect yourself from insanity and neurosis in a world gone mad? The number of books and movies that have catapulted psychiatry into the news have not supplied the answer.

GIVES QUOTABLE ADVICE – w58 6/1 p. 339 par. 8 What Does It Take to Make You Happy?

“We all feel an urge for God as powerful as our instincts for sex and hunger, says a daring new school of psychiatric thought.” This article by a doctor states: …

IS A DEFEAT FOR CHRISTIANS – Awake! 1960 March 8 p.27

As a rule, for a Christian to go to a worldly psychiatrist is an admission of defeat, it amounts to ‘going down to Egypt for help.’

CONTRARY TO SOUND REASON – w61 3/1 p. 134 Materialism or Spirituality—Which Do We Need?

The clergy all too often blur the clear truth of the Bible with philosophies of evolution, modern psychiatry and man-made doctrines that are contrary to God’s Word and sound reason.

IT’S DISCOURAGED BY WT BUT CAN HELP – w63 5/15 pp. 319-320 Questions From Readers

The fact that the Watch Tower publications have discouraged dedicated Christians consulting worldly psychiatrists except in extreme cases does not mean that a psychiatrist cannot and does not help those who consult him.

DOCTORS AND PSYCHIATRISTS ARE WRONG – w72 2/1 p. 92 Why Avoid Self-Abuse?

Doctors and psychiatrists are, of course, imperfect humans and are subject to error.

DOCTORS AND PSYCHIATRISTS ARE RIGHT – w72 4/1 p. 196 “Good Health to You!” a study of emotions by medical doctors and psychiatrists reveals that jealousy, anxiety and anger or rage contribute to, aggravate, or even cause, such ailments as asthma, skin diseases, hives, ulcers and dental and digestive troubles, and can trigger heart failure.

YOU CAN USE THEM BUT BE CAREFUL – w75 4/15 p. 256 Questions From Readers

So, while Jehovah’s witnesses do not categorically rule out the possibility of treatment by doctors specializing in emotional or mental problems, if a Witness does consult such he should carefully scrutinize any treatment recommended.

NOT AS GOOD AS THE BIBLE – w77 11/1 p. 668 Insight on the News those who turn to the Creator of the mind and body, Jehovah God, and observe his counsel for mental

health find much more practical help than those who go to psychiatrists.

PSYCHIATRY SHOWN IN A BAD LIGHT – w79 1/1 p. 27 Insight on the News The practice of psychiatry has come under sharp criticism in recent times.

GIVES QUOTABLE ADVICE – w80 5/15 p. 8 Why “Be in Subjection”?

It is of interest to note what one of New York city’s leading psychiatrists had to say on this subject.

IS DAMAGING – w85 10/1 p. 20 My Ten Years in Spain’s Military Prisons

I was assigned to a psychiatric hospital for treatment! Fortunately I was examined by a doctor who knew of the Witnesses, and I was thus saved from treatment that could have done permanent damage.

GIVES QUOTABLE ADVICE – AWAKE! 1991-10-08 The Secret Wounds of Child Abuse

“With abused children,” explains Dr. J. Patrick Gannon (Psychiatrist), “this process of trust building gets

derailed.”

SHOULD YOU DRINK PASTEURIZED MILK?

YES – The Golden Age 07/25/1928 p. 679

PASTEURIZATION of milk simply means holding milk at 142 to 145 degrees for thirty minutes. It is never boiled. Nothing is added and nothing is taken away. In cities where pasteurization is required there has been a reduction in deaths from diphtheria and tuberculosis to about half the former number, and a still greater reduction in the number of deaths from typhoid fever, scarlet fever and diarrheal diseases.

NO – The Golden Age 07/24/1929 p. 682

Added to this is the fact that they are compelled to drink milk from cows that have also been subjected to a liberal injection of tuberculin, a most terrible deadly poison. This poison enters directly into the blood circulation. Hence the milk. Then this milk is sterilized, or scalded to the boiling point or nearly so, destroying much of the life-giving nourishment of the milk, but not injuring the poison therein. Scalded milk, for either adults or children, is very constipating. This in turn causes more deaths and resulting ailments than do all other causes combined, I surely believe.

YES – g77 9/22 p. 17 Stay Clean, Stay Healthy!

Milk, so good for growing children, may be a disease carrier if it comes from a dirty or infected animal, which is why, in Western lands, milk must be pasteurized.

WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF OUR PHYSICAL HEART?

JUST A PUMP – w1888 July p.6

The secret of how the mind operates upon disease undoubtedly lies in the fact that the brain is not only the seat of all thought, but of all feeling.

MORE THAN JUST A PUMP – w71 3/1 p. 134 par. 5 How Is Your Heart?

The brain, in which the mind resides, is one thing and the heart in our thorax, with its power of motivation, is another thing.

NOT JUST A PUMP – w71 3/1 p. 134 par. 6 – 7 How Is Your Heart?

we do not want to make the mistake of viewing the literal heart as merely a fleshly pump as does

orthodox physiology today.

The heart is a marvelously designed muscular pump, but, more significantly, our emotional and motivating capacities are built within it. Love, hate, desire (good and bad), preference for one thing over another, ambition, fear—in effect, all that serves to motivate us in relationship to our affections and desires springs from the heart.

The sensations of the heart are recorded on the brain. It is here that the heart brings to bear on the mind its desires and its affections in arriving at conclusions having to do with motivations… The heart is a marvelously designed muscular pump, but, more significantly, our emotional and motivating capacities are built within it.

IT’S YOUR PERSONALITY – w71 3/1 p. 135 par. 10 How Is Your Heart?

One thing is sure, in losing their own hearts [by heart transplant], they have had taken away from them the capacities of “heart” built up in them over the years and which contributed to making them who they were as to personality.

IT HAS EMOTIONS – w75 8/1 p. 480 Questions From Readers

We should keep in mind that the human body is a harmonious whole, with all the members thereof being dependent on one another. Therefore, emotions, feelings, desires and the like cannot entirely be limited to any one specific organ such as the brain, heart or kidneys.

JUST A PUMP – w84 9/1 p. 12 par. 15 “Who Has Come to Know Jehovah’s Mind?”

Regardless of whether a person is conscious or not, the heart keeps pumping the blood to the brain and all other parts of the body.

IT HAS THOUGHTS – w84 9/1 p. 19 The “Kidneys” and the “Heart” in the Scriptures

At Hebrews 4:12 it is stated that “the word of God . . . is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.” This signifies that “the heart” is the thing that induces and motivates the thoughts and intentions, which are discerned by “the word of God.”

RIDICULE THOSE WHO SAID IT WAS MORE THAN JUST A PUMP – w86 6/1 p. 15 par. 2 Determined to Serve Jehovah With a Complete Heart

The ancient Egyptians believed that the physical heart was the seat of intelligence and the emotions. They also thought that it had a will of its own. The Babylonians said that the heart housed the intellect as well as love. The Greek philosopher Aristotle taught that it was the seat of the senses and the domain of the soul. But as time passed and knowledge increased, these views were discarded. Finally the heart became known for what it is, a pump to circulate the blood throughout the body.

IT DOES NOT MOTIVATE – w95 1/15 p. 16 par. 3 Serve Jehovah With Joy of Heart

Though the physical heart is mentioned in the Scriptures, it does not literally think or reason.

DOES LEV 5:1 REFER TO WRONGDOING (‘CURSING’) OR ‘BEING ASKED TO TESTIFY’?

Lev 5:1 NWT (1984) “Now in case a soul sins in that he has heard public cursing and he is a witness or he has seen it or has come to know of it, if he does not report it, then he must answer for his error.”

Lev 5:1 RevNWT (2013) “If someone sins because he has heard a public call to testify and he is a witness or has seen or learned about it and he does not report it, then he will answer for his error.”

This verse is the basis of the JW teaching that wrongdoing should be reported to the elders. It stems from mistakenly understanding ‘swear’ to mean an obscenity, and not swearing as to truth. This ‘obscenity’ was then extended to include all wrongdoing, and has created the “tell the elders” culture of JW’s.

TESTIFY – w70 6/15 p. 378 par. 26 A Happy, Prosperous Nation Under God’s Law A witness was required to testify to that which he knew. (Lev. 5:1)

WRONGDOING AND TESTIFY – w72 8/1 p. 465 par. 12 Cooperating Fully with God’s Appointed Ones

One who loves righteousness and is truly loyal to God will courageously step forward and expose any grossly sinful conduct of which he is a witness within the congregation and he will freely testify to the truth of the matter when called upon to do so.—Lev. 5:1

WRONGDOING – w85 11/15 pp. 20-21 par. 15 Do Not Share in the Sins of Others

Therefore, after we have given the erring individual a reasonable amount of time to approach the elders about his wrongdoing, it is our responsibility before Jehovah not to be a sharer in his sin. We need to inform the responsible overseers that the person has revealed serious wrongdoing that merits their investigation. This would be in harmony with Leviticus 5:1

TESTIFY – w87 9/1 p. 13 “A Time to Speak”—When?

Another Bible guideline appears at Leviticus 5:1. This “public cursing” was not profanity or blasphemy. Rather, it often occurred when someone who had been wronged demanded that any potential witnesses help him to get justice… It was a form of putting others under oath.

WRONGDOING – w88 8/1 p. 21 par. 21 Youths—Guard Against Leading a Double Life

What if you know of someone who is leading a double life? … Then it is your Scriptural responsibility to report it. (Leviticus 5:1)

WRONGDOING – w94 7/15 p. 23 How Do You Settle Differences?

Under the Mosaic Law, serious sins were to be reported. (Leviticus 5:1)

TESTIFY – w95 7/15 p. 16 Christian Women Deserve Honor and Respect

Referring to Leviticus 5:1, The Mishnah explains: “[The law about] ‘an oath of testimony’ applies to men but not to women.”

WRONGDOING – w97 8/15 p. 27 Why Report What Is Bad?

The Law stated that if a person was a witness to apostate acts, sedition, murder, or certain other serious crimes, it was his responsibility to report it and to testify to what he knew. Leviticus 5:1

WRONGDOING w11 8/15 p. 31 par. 15 Pursue Peace

If the wrongdoer does not do so, the Christian who has come to know about the sin should report it. Failure to do this in a mistaken effort to maintain peace with the sinner makes one a party to the wrongdoing.—Lev. 5:1

WRONGDOING w12 2/15 p. 22 par. 15 Preserve the Positive Spirit of the Congregation when serious sin has been committed, those Scripturally obligated to handle the matter—the elders in

the congregation—should be informed. (Read Leviticus 5:1.)

TESTIFY – RNWT (2013) Lev 5:1 “If someone sins because he has heard a public call to testify…“

WRONGDOING – w14 8/1 p. 11 “Please Listen to This Dream”

When tempted to conceal the serious sin of another—perhaps a sibling or a friend—it is wise to imitate

Joseph and make sure that the matter is known to those who are in a position to help the wrongdoer.— Leviticus 5:1

Compare Prov 29:24 which cross references Lev 5:1, and ask why does the thief’s partner hates himself: “The partner of a thief hates himself. He may hear the call to testify, but he reports nothing.”

Note: Despite understanding this verse correctly since the Revised NWT (2013), WT chooses to continue to misuse and misapply it to maintain the practise of reporting others to the elders.

It is interesting that many other Bible translations have correctly understood this verse for centuries. See Geneva Bible (1560), Darby Bible (1889) etc. Why has it taken the F&DS’s Bible so long to catch up?

WHAT DOES MT 24:29 “THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED” MEAN?

IT HAPPENED IN 1780 – w1885 Jan p. 3 “The Sign Of His Presence”

Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, etc… [In those days before they end, 1798], but after the tribulation of those days–as Papal persecutions and that of other abominations (systems) began to draw to a close–in 1780 the “Dark Day” occurred, concerning which we read: “May 19th, 1780.–The darkness commenced between 10 and 11 A.M., and continued until the middle of the next night.

IT HAPPENED IN 1780 – w1896 May p. 116

Verses 25-31, leaping over centuries, point to events near the close of Gentile Times, and mention the signs of the close of the Gospel age, and connected with the revealing of the Son of Man in glory. The signs in the sun, moon and stars were to give a general idea as to the time when the Kingdom would be nigh. We will not here particularize respecting these signs, but will mention them:– The remarkable darkening of the sun and moon, May 19th, 1780; and the notable falling of stars or meteoric shower on the morning of Nov. 13th, 1833.

Note: This teaching was copied from Adventist preacher Jonas Wendell’s book “Present Truth, or Meat in Due Season” from 1873, who in turn had copied it from Baptist preacher William Miller, who was famous for his ‘Great Disappointment’ of 1844, when he told everyone to expect the return of Christ.

IT IS BOTH LITERAL AND SYMBOLIC – w1896 May p. 116

While we believe also in a symbolic fulfilment of the darkening of the sun and falling of the stars, yet we cannot overlook the literal fulfilment

MOCK OTHERS WHO SAID IT HAPPENED IN 1780 – w58 9/15 pp. 549-550 “The Sun Will Be Darkened” Do these prophecies refer to the literal sun’s being darkened, as was the case in the time of Moses and Jesus Christ? Yes, say many devout religionists. Thus a Seventh-day Adventist publication, Bible Readings for the Home Circle, states that such texts were fulfilled in the dark day of May 19, 1780.

IT IS SYMBOLIC – w58 9/15 pp. 549-550 “The Sun Will Be Darkened”

But does it necessarily follow that when God’s Word states that “the sun will be darkened” the literal sun is referred to? Not at all. In view of all the foregoing, is it necessary to hold that the prophecies regarding the darkening of the sun refer to the literal sun not giving its light? No, it is not; nor does it seem reasonable to hold that this darkening of the sun was limited to but a few hours in just a small section of the earth… It is not reasonable to conclude that this sign would come some 170 years or more before Jehovah’s terrible day.—Matt. 24:7-12.

It follows, therefore, that we should expect this darkening of the sun to take place now. And in just what manner is this prophecy being fulfilled? In the great spiritual darkness now covering the earth.

IT IS LITERAL – w62 4/1 p. 224 Questions From Readers These texts are to be understood primarily in a literal sense.

IT IS SYMBOLIC – w75 3/1 p. 140 Knowledge That Cannot Come from Men

Jesus indicated that there would be a very bleak, dark period. It would be as if the sun, moon and stars were no longer serving as luminaries

IT IS LITERAL AND SYMBOLIC SINCE 1914 – w75 5/1 p. 276 par. 18 Why We Have Not Been Told “That Day and Hour”

Since 1914 C.E. it has taken place, just as foretold: “The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light”

IT IS FUTURE – w93 6/1 p. 32 Why You Should Attend

“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened.” (Matthew 24:29) You will want to hear the discussion regarding when that tribulation occurs.

FUTURE SYMBOLIC AND LITERAL w94 2/15 p. 20 par. 20 “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?”

Doubtless, in the early part of the great tribulation, many luminaries—prominent clergymen of the religious world—will have been exposed and eliminated by “the ten horns” mentioned at Revelation 17:16. No doubt political powers too will have been shaken up. Could there also be frightening events in the physical heavens? Quite likely, and far more awe-inspiring than those described by Josephus as occurring near the end of the Jewish system

FUTURE LITERAL – w99 5/1 p. 12 par. 18 “These Things Must Take Place” celestial phenomena of some sort will occur.

WHAT DOES HEB 4:12 REFER TO?

(Heb 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and exerts power”)

Jesus and the anointed – w51 12/15 p. 745 par. 16 “Say to the Prisoners, Go Forth”

The Bible – w52 10/15 p. 611 “The Word of God Is Alive”

Christ Jesus – w52 9/1 p. 529 par. 4 Why Maturity of Discernment Vital

The truth – w52 7/15 p. 427 ‘Let Each One Watch How He Builds’

Jesus teachings – w52 6/1 p. 339 par. 20 “Get Out of Her, My People”

The Bible – w53 11/1 p. 657 The Living Word

Jehovah – w53 6/1 p. 346 par. 13 Foreknowledge Compatible with Free Will

Jehovah’s words – w55 1/1 p. 9 par. 2 Holding Fast the Public Declaration of Our Hope

The Bible – w56 4/15 p. 243 par. 11 Activity and Life versus Inactivity and Death

The sword of the spirit – w59 6/1 p. 324 Intolerance Is a Sign of Weakness

The Bible – w59 5/1 p. 263 par. 12 Break Free to Do the “Complete Will of God”

The truth – w66 8/15 p. 491 par. 2 Maintaining Our Possession of Peace

The Bible – w67 9/1 p. 530 par. 7 Keeping the Tongue Under Control

Gods message – w73 3/1 p. 160 Questions From Readers The Bible – w75 7/1 p. 393 Christian Growth in the Philippines God’s promises – w76 9/1 p. 543 Do You Remember?

The Bible – w76 4/1 p. 204 Let Everyone Take Life’s Water Free

The Bibles message – w77 4/1 p. 209 Building a Stronghold of Truth in Okinawa

The Bible – w79 5/1 p. 15 God’s Word Exerts Power

The ‘good news’ – w82 1/1 p. 21 par. 19 Forward, You Ministers of the Kingdom!

The Bible – w84 9/1 p. 24 Bible Truth Changes Lives

God’s message – w89 9/15 p. 12 par. 9 Elders—Guard Your Trust The Bible – w90 4/15 p. 29 Do You Remember?

Bible based ‘good news’ – w90 1/1 p. 6 Global Publishing of Good News The Bible – w93 9/15 p. 21 They Compassionately Shepherd the Little Sheep The words of God – w94 1/15 p. 5 Soon—A World Without War!

The Bible – w95 12/1 p. 17 par. 12 Jehovah Gives to the Tired One Power Bible based publications – w95 1/15 p. 32 Small but Powerful The Bible – w96 6/1 p. 5 When Prejudice Will Be No More!

Every expression of Jehovah – w97 10/15 p. 29 Discerning the Principle Reflects Maturity

Bible truths – w98 11/15 p. 11 par. 6 Walking With God—The Early Steps

The Bible – w98 4/1 p. 11 par. 3 A Book for All People

God’s message – w98 7/15 p. 19 par. 18 Have You Entered Into God’s Rest?

God’s promises – w99 6/1 p. 26 Rejoice in Jehovah and Be Joyful

The Bible – w99 1/1 p. 5 Real Help for the Family

The ‘good news’ – w01 4/1 p. 10 par. 6 “The Word of Jehovah Went On Growing”

The Bible – w01 5/1 p. 30 The Bible in a Single Volume

Gods message – w03 5/15 p. 8 Before and After—Murky Past, Bright Future

The Hebrew scriptures – w03 11/15 p. 19 par. 5 Preach to Make Disciples

The Bible – w04 1/1 p. 31 par. 7 Highlights From the Book of Genesis—I

The Bible message – w09 9/15 p. 23 par. 9 The Excelling Value of Divine Education

The Bible – w10 1/15 p. 13 par. 7 Prove to Be a Real Follower of Christ

God’s counsel – w10 10/15 p. 21 par. 6 Do You Share in Making Christian Meetings Upbuilding?

Not the Bible, and the Bible – w11 (simplified) 7/15 p.27 par. 20

God’s message – w13 2/15 p. 22 Beware of the Intentions of the Heart The Bible – w13 9/15 p. 20 par. 14 Have You Been Transformed?

IS THE SIMPLIFIED WATCHTOWER A BLESSING FROM JEHOVAH?

YES – w11 7/15 p. 3 Introducing the Simplified English Edition

…this new provision will answer the prayers of many who have said to Jehovah: “Make me understand, that I may learn your commandments.” … We give all thanks to Jehovah that out of “love for the whole association of brothers,” he is using the “faithful and discreet slave” to give spiritual food in abundance.

YES – w15 3/15 p. 8 par. 4 “This Is the Way You Approved”

This [simplified] edition has proved to be, in effect, a loving gift to those who struggle with language or find reading a challenge. Family heads are finding that their children are now more involved in the study of this journal, the main channel of our spiritual feeding program. … A sister wrote that she had held back from commenting at the Watchtower Study. … After making use of the simplified edition, she wrote: “I now comment more than once, and the fear is gone! I thank Jehovah and you.”

NO – BOE Dec 28th 2016

… For several years, the simplified edition of The Watchtower has been produced in French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. The Governing Body has decided that only one study edition will be translated into these languages. Therefore, the last simplified edition in French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish will be the issue of May 2017. In the future, simpler language will be used in the study edition of The

Watchtower.

WHO IS THE “FAITHFUL AND DISCREET SLAVE?”

• w84 12/1 p. 18 Keep Ready!

Things for Which Christians Were to Keep on the Watch:

The clear identification of “the faithful and discreet slave” class.—Matthew 24:45-47.

• w81 Mar 1 pp.24-26: “objectors may argue that not all of Christ’s anointed disciples have a share in preparing the spiritual food, so that perhaps the “slave” pictures only the leading ones. There is no point in trying to force an interpretation of the parable. Self-deception is of no benefit and is spiritually damaging. Therefore, we must look to the Scriptures for an understanding. In doing this, what do we find? [ … ] Thus we see a clear Scriptural basis for saying that all anointed followers of Christ Jesus make up God’s “servant,” with Jesus as its Master.”

2013 July 15 Watchtower – p.22 para 10: Who, then, is the faithful and discreet slave? . . . that slave is made up of a small group of anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and dispensing spiritual food during Christ’s presence.

DID JESUS SAY THE SLAVE WOULD ‘GIVE’ FOOD, ‘PROVIDE’ FOOD OR ‘PRODUCE’ FOOD?

GIVE – Matthew 24:45 “Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give them their food at the proper time?”

PRODUCE!! – w2017/2 p.26 Par. 12 Who Is Leading God’s People Today

The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters… Of course Jesus did not tell us that his faithful slave would produce perfect spiritual food.

PROVIDE – w14 8/15 p. 3 Are You Receiving “Food at the Proper Time”?

…he appointed a faithful slave to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.”—Matt. 24:45, 46.

PROVIDE – w10 1/15 p. 10 par. 13 Belonging to Jehovah—An Undeserved Kindness

Also, “the faithful and discreet slave” provides spiritual food to protect us against the teaching of evolution, the enticement of immoral desires, the pursuit of riches and prominence, and numerous other harmful desires and influences. (Matt. 24:45)

PROVIDE – w10 1/15 p. 31 par. 14 Jehovah’s Way of Ruling Vindicated!

They have been appointed as a faithful and discreet slave class to care for and provide spiritual food for anointed ones and a growing crowd of Christians, who now include millions having the hope of living on earth forever. (Matt. 24:45-47)

PROVIDE – w10 9/15 p. 26 par. 4 Our Active Leader Today

Jesus had prophesied that “on arriving” to inspect his domestics during “the conclusion of the system of things,” he would find a slave providing them “food at the proper time.” (Matt. 24:45-47)

PROVIDE – w10 12/15 p. 10 par. 14 Be Zealous for True Worship

Jesus indicated that he would appoint “the faithful and discreet slave” to provide spiritual food for his people. (Matt. 24:45)

PROVIDE – w08 3/15 pp. 4-5 par. 11 Be Yielding, Be Balanced

All in the congregation submit to the arrangement that Jesus made for “the faithful and discreet slave” to provide spiritual food at the proper time. (Matt. 24:45-47)

PROVIDE – w08 6/15 p. 9 par. 11 Things From Which We Must Flee

“the faithful and discreet slave,” whom Jesus appointed to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.”

PROVIDE – w07 4/1 p. 22 par. 5 Loyal to Christ and His Faithful Slave

(Matthew 24:3, 45-47) “On arriving” to inspect the “slave” in 1918, Christ found a spirit-anointed remnant of faithful disciples who since 1879 had been using this journal and other Bible-based publications to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.”

PROVIDE – w07 11/1 p. 30 par. 12 Searching Into “the Deep Things of God”

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)

PROVIDE – w04 2/1 p. 14 par. 5 Jehovah Provides Our Daily Needs

Jesus has appointed a “faithful and discreet slave” to provide “food at the proper time” for the household of faith. (Matthew 24:45)

PROVIDE – w04 3/1 p. 13 par. 1 ‘The Faithful Slave’ Passes the Test!

Jesus appointed a “slave” to provide food at the proper time for his “domestics.” (Matthew 24:45-47)

PROVIDE – w01 4/15 p. 28 You Can Succeed Regardless of Your Upbringing

Jesus Christ, has appointed the body of his anointed followers—”the faithful and discreet slave”—to provide spiritual food at the right time. (Matthew 24:45-47)

PROVIDE – w00 5/1 p. 15 par. 10 Hear What the Spirit Has to Say

… at Matthew 24:45-47. There he spoke of the spirit-anointed Christian congregation—”the faithful and discreet slave” appointed to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.”

PROVIDE – w99 10/1 p. 5 par. 4 “For Everything There Is an Appointed Time”

God has authorized a “faithful and discreet slave” to provide his people with “their [spiritual] food at the proper time.” (Matthew 24:45)

PROVIDE – w98 7/15 p. 12 par. 15 Beware of a Lack of Faith

We also have “the faithful and discreet slave,” appointed by Jesus to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.” (Matthew 24:45-47)

Q: Why keep editing out Jesus quote in Mt 24:45 to replace the word ‘give’ with the word ‘provide’?

WHO ARE THE ‘TYPES’ OF THE FAITHFUL SLAVE?

80 EXAMPLES:

– w81 3/1 p. 27 Do You Appreciate the “Faithful and Discreet Slave”?

(repeated verbatim from w60 7/15 p. 437 The Awake “Faithful and Discreet Slave”)

OVERWHELMING CREDENTIALS

The “faithful and discreet slave” has abundant credentials. Following is a partial list of Scriptural and prophetic designations applying to or being represented in the remnant of Jesus Christ’s anointed followers since the notable year 1919:

(1) Noah’s wife, Gen. 7:7; (2) angels sent to Lot, Gen. 19:15; (3) Rebekah, Gen. 24:64; (4) Joseph and Benjamin, Gen. 45:14; (5) gleanings left behind, Lev. 19:9; (6) two spies to Rahab, Josh. 2:4; (7) Barak, Judg. 4:14; (8) Jephthah, Judg. 11:34; (9) Naomi and Ruth, Ruth 2:2; (10) David’s Israelite warriors, 2 Sam. 18:1; (11) Jehu, 2 Ki. 10:11, 15; (12) Mordecai and Esther, Esther 4:13; (13) Job, Job 42:10, 13; (14) King’s daughter, Ps. 45:13; (15) men of loving-kindness, Ps. 50:5; (16) intimate group,

Ps. 89:7; (17) Shear-jashub, Isa. 7:3; (18) light of the nations, Isa. 60:3; (19) big trees of righteousness, Isa. 61:3; (20) ministers of our God, Isa. 61:6; (21) cluster preserved, Isa. 65:8; (22) servants called by another name, Isa. 65:15; (23) men trembling at God’s word, Isa. 66:5; (24) new nation born, Isa. 66:8;

(25) Jeremiah, Jer. 1:10; (26) Jehovah’s people in the new covenant, Jer. 31:33; (27) enduring watchman, Ezek. 3:16-27; (28) man in linen, Ezek. 9:2; (29) cleansed people, Ezek. 36:29-32; (30) dwellers in center of earth, Ezek. 38:12; (31) the host of heaven, Dan. 8:10; (32) sanctuary restored (cleansed), Dan. 8:14; (33) they that are wise, Dan. 11:33; (34) the happy one who is keeping in expectation, Dan. 12:12; (35) all flesh receiving the spirit, Joel 2:28; (36) Jonah, Jon. 3:1-3; (37) apple of Jehovah’s eye, Zech. 2:8; (38) liberated remnant, Zech. 2:7; (39) a Jew, Zech. 8:23; (40) sons of Levi,

Mal. 3:3; (41) wheat, Matt. 13:25; (42) sons of the kingdom, Matt. 13:38; (43) workers for the vineyard, Matt. 20:1; (44) those invited to marriage feast, Matt. 22:3-14; (45) chosen ones, Matt. 24:22; (46) eagles, Matt. 24:28; (47) faithful and discreet slave, Matt. 24:45; (48) discreet virgins, Matt. 25:2; (49) brothers of the king, Matt. 25:40; (50) little flock of sheep, Luke 12:32; (51) beggar Lazarus, Luke 16:20; (52) sheep in “this fold,” John 10:1-16; (53) branches of the vine, John 15:4; (54) royal palace of David, Acts 15:16; (55) heirs with Christ, Rom. 8:17; (56) the remnant, Rom. 11:5; (57) branches in the olive tree, Rom. 11:24; (58) holy ones or saints, 1 Cor. 6:2; Rev. 16:6; (59) temple, 1 Cor. 6:19; (60) new creation, 2 Cor. 5:17; (61) ambassadors for Christ, 2 Cor. 5:20; (62) congregation of God, Gal. 1:13; (63) part of Abraham’s seed, Gal. 3:29; (64) Israel of God, Gal. 6:16; (65) body of Christ, Eph. 1:22, 23; (66) soldiers of Christ Jesus, 2 Tim. 2:3; (67) house under Christ, Heb. 3:6; (68) holy priesthood, 1 Pet. 2:5; (69) holy nation, 1 Pet. 2:9; (70) association of brothers, 1 Pet. 2:17; (71) seven congregations, Rev.

1:20; (72) twenty-four persons of advanced age, Rev. 4:4; (73) spiritual Israel, Rev. 7:4; (74) locusts, Rev. 9:3; (75) two witnesses, Rev. 11:3; (76) two olive trees, Rev. 11:4; (77) seed of the woman, Rev. 12:17; (78) New Jerusalem, Rev. 21:2; (79) the bride of Christ, Rev. 22:17; 19:7; (80) Jehovah’s witnesses, Isa. 43:10.

THERE ARE NO ‘TYPES’:

• w15 3/15 p. 9 para. 7

In times past, it was more common for our literature to take what might be called a type-antitype approach to Scriptural accounts.

• w15 3/15 p.18 Questions From Readers

“Where the Scriptures teach that an individual, an event, or an object is typical of something else, we accept it as such. Otherwise, we ought to be reluctant to assign an antitypical application to a certain person or account if there is no specific Scriptural basis for doing so.”

This means the “overwhelming credentials” from w81 above are no longer overwhelming, nor indeed even credentials at all – they have been proven false credentials by the 2015 WT.

Reading all these flip-flops and reversals so far, it’s very easy to apply 2 John 9-11* to the WT since their own publications are full of examples of them pushing ahead of the teaching of the Christ.

While the WT argue that they aren’t prophets (even though they act like it and even use that word to describe themselves), they can’t argue that they haven’t pushed ahead, since so many teachings have been reversed. The original teaching of 1914, for example, is a clear indication of pushing ahead. Also the types and anti-types teachings that were changed, organ transplants, the F&DS, the interpretation of scripture and prophecy, the Alpha and Omega, the 1925 resurrection, the ‘generation’, Jesus’ parables…, these (and many others) are all unmistakable examples of the WT “pushing ahead”.

*2 John 9-11 Everyone who pushes ahead [“goes too far” – LEB] and does not remain in the teaching of the Christ does not have God. The one who does remain in this teaching is the one who has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him. For the one who says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.

TYPES AND ANTITYPES

Are Important – w50 9/15 p. 321 Ancient Patterns for the Present

Could it be that all those regulations, ordinances and commandments given Israel regarding their tabernacle services and sacrifices were pictorial of greater things to come? Most assuredly!

Are Important – w70 12/1 p. 720 par. 3 The Desolating of Christendom by the “Disgusting Thing”

Christendom is the antitype or the thing that was typed so long ago. Hence, although not directly named in Bible prophecy, she is typed or prophetically pictured.

Are Important – w70 12/1 p. 714 par. 4 The Desolator of Christendom Historically Prefigured

Consequently, the ancient type shows us what its modern antitype will be like; and what befell the ancient type indicates prophetically what must befall its modern antitype,

Are Important – w71 3/15 p. 180 par. 5 A Change from Mourning to a Good Day

This agrees with the fact that in the antitype the Esther class, acting under the instructions of the Mordecai class, do not try to destroy by violence the professed Christian clergy of Christendom.

Are Important – kj (Know Jehovah) – 1971 chap. 12 p. 216 par. 9 “Until He Comes…”

Shortly, within our twentieth century, the “battle in the day of Jehovah” will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom.

(NOTE: This statement is wrong on two counts. 1. for using Types, and 2. for getting the date wrong!)

Are Important – w72 8/15 p. 502 God Readjusts the Thinking of His People

Another thing that has given rise to questionsis the use by Jehovah’s witnesses of parallels or prophetic types, applying these to circumstances and to groups or classes of people today.Many people who read the Bible view its accounts all as simply history, but when they begin to study with Jehovah’s witnesses a readjustment of viewpoint takes place as they see there is more to the accounts than history.

Are Important – w72 12/1 p. 714 par. 21 The One True Temple at Which to Worship

Also, what is the antitype of the first compartment or Holy of the earthly tent or temple? Let us figure this out with Bible help.

Are Important – w75 10/1 p. 602 par. 27 The Exposing of the False Kingdom Refuge

So in the antitype of that presentation of the two leavened loaves on Sivan 6, the thing symbolized by the leaven in the loaves must be something good, righteous, virtuous. Hence we ask, What do those two loaves of leavened wheat bread themselves typify? They typify the true Christian congregation of imperfect human believers that came into existence on the day of Pentecost of the year 33 C.E.

Are Important – w83 8/15 p. 17 A Productive Olive Tree

THE SYMBOLIC OLIVE TREE—Type and Antitype

BRANCHES 12 tribes of Israel 144,000 spiritual Israelites (secondary seed)

TRUNK Isaac, Jacob and 12 patriarchs Messiah Jesus (primary Seed)

ROOT Abraham Jehovah

Are Important (last reference to types/antitypes for 13 years…) – w02 5/1 p. 30 Q.F.R.

In times past, it has been said that the great crowd is in a spiritual equivalent, or an antitype, of the Court of the Gentiles that existed in Jesus’ day. However, further research has revealed at least five reasons why that is not so. (NOTE: ‘five reasons’ for flip flopping on that particular subject!)

Are NOT important – w2015 3/15 p.17 Questions From Readers

“Many years ago, our publications stated that such faithful men and women as Deborah, Elihu, Jephthah, Job, Rahab, and Rebekah, as well as many others, were really types, or shadows, of either the anointed or the “great crowd.”…

Some writers in the centuries after Christ’s death fell into a trap—they saw types everywhere… even in the number of fish caught by the disciples on the night the risen Saviour appeared to them—how much some have tried to make of that number, 153!” (NOTE: much like Daniels images toes perhaps?)

“Humans cannot know which Bible accounts are shadows of things to come and which are not. The clearest course is this: Where the Scriptures teach that an individual, an event, or an object is typical of something else, we accept it as such. Otherwise, we ought to be reluctant to assign an antitypical application to a certain person or account if there is no specific Scriptural basis for doing so.”

AGM 2015 – Geoffrey Jackson.

“In recent years we’ve been careful not to try and make types and antitypes of every aspect of what the Bible says… How easy it would be for us to become sidetracked with [many account details]. It doesn’t matter. (audience laughs).”

WHEN DID THE ‘SECOND PRESENCE’ OF JESUS CHRIST BEGIN?

1874 – Zion’s Watch Tower October/November 1881 p. 289

1874 – Studies in the Scriptures Vol. II 1889 p. 239

1874 – Harp of God, 1921, p.234

1874 – WT 1/1/24 p.5

1874 – Creation, 1927, p.289

1874 – Prophecy, 1929, p.65

1914 – The Golden Age magazine (1930 p.503)

1914 – What is Truth? 1932

1914 – From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, 1958, p.170

1914 – God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years…, 1973, pp. 209,210

1914 – You Can Live Forever…, 1982, p.147

The Time is at Hand (1903 edition), pp. 98-99

“True, it is expecting great things to claim, as we do, that within the coming twenty-six years all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved; but we are living in a special and peculiar time, the “Day of Jehovah,” in which matters culminate quickly; and it is written, ‘A short work will the Lord make upon the earth.’… In view of the strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished at the end of A.D. 1914.”

rs p.136 par. 4 False Prophets

Matters on which [WT] corrections of viewpoint have been needed have been relatively minor when compared with the vital Bible truths that they have discerned and publicized. Among these are: … Since 1914 we have been living in the last days of the global wicked system of things.

(Note: Actually, the WT originally said the last days began in 1799 and Christ arrived in 1874, so the

Reasoning Book is being deceptive.)

WT 1/15/93 p.5 “The Watchtower has consistently presented evidence to honest hearted students of

Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914.”

(Note: “CONSISTENTLY”? Looking above, is this true? What about the 50 years from 1881 to 1930?)

A more (although not completely) honest statement came from WT 09 15/03 p. 15 para 4:

“Since 1925 Jehovah’s Witnesses have recognized that World War I and the events that followed amount to sure evidence that Christ’s presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914.”

Note: Both Russell and Rutherford believed Jesus had already returned in 1874, so were not looking for his return in 1914. Russell was looking for Armageddon in 1914. In fact, the 1914 date as Jesus’ return was not officially changed in WT literature until 1943. Both Russell and Rutherford went to their graves believing Jesus had returned in 1874.

When the passage of time forced them to admit that this was a wrong expectation, who was to blame?

Of course it wasn’t the Governing Body, it was “quite a few”.

The “timing of the last day” was wrong as well. Maybe that was Jesus’ fault:

— w79 6/15 pp. 26-27 par. 1 Living Now in That “Last Day” of Resurrection

“We recall that for some decades quite a few thought that the glorification of all surviving members of the Christian congregation would occur at the end of the Gentile Times around October 1, 1914… Apparently something was wrong about the timing of the “last day” for the glorification of the spiritbegotten congregation.”

WATCHTOWER MATHEMATICS

g69 5/22 p.14-15

“The truth of this can be seen in crime statistics everywhere. In the United States the FBI reported that in 1968 there was a fantastic 17-percent increase in crime over 1967… The population, however, grew only one percent last year. So crime exploded seventeen times as fast as the population!”

(Note: 17% does not equal 17 times, but equals 1.17 times. WT were out by a factor of 14.5 times)

2016/5/2-8 Life and Ministry Workbook – Living As Christians.

“Are You Using JW Library?” (15 mins)

“Begin with a five minute discussion. Play and briefly discuss ‘Start Using JW Library’ (3.09 mins).

Do the same with the videos ‘Download And Manage Publications’ (4.42 mins) and ‘Customize the Reading

Experience’ (4.12 mins). Encourage all who can to install the JW Library app…”

(Note: 5 mins + 3.09 mins + 4.42 mins + 4.12 mins = 17.03 mins, in a 15 minute item!)

USING ELECTRONIC TABLETS

RULING THAT THEY CAN’T BE USED ON THE PLATFORM – Nov 8, 2011 BOE letter:

However, at this time, an electronic tablet or other similar device should not be used on the platform, such as for reading the paragraphs at the Watchtower Study, conducting a meeting, or giving a talk of any kind. In addition to the possibility of a technical problem occurring, it is felt that using an electronic tablet from the platform could prompt others to feel that they too should invest in such a device. Additionally, since many brothers cannot afford such a device, using one prominently from the stage could, in effect, create “class distinctions” or appear to be a “showy display of one’s means of life.”

THEY CAN BE USED ON THE PLATFORM AND THERE SHOULDN’T BE ANY RULES – Oct 12, 2013 BOE letter: Electronic tablets have become increasingly common in many parts of the world. So the Governing Body has decided that the use of such devices from the platform at our theocratic events should be left to the individual discretion of each program participant. This is not something for which elders would need to establish a rule.

DON’T SELL YOUR KIDNEY TO GET ONE – w13 1/15 p. 17 par. 3 Keep Drawing Close to Jehovah

We can, however, also become obsessed with computer technology. Marketers cleverly convince people that they must have the latest products. One young man so passionately desired a particular tablet computer that he secretly sold one of his kidneys to buy it. What a shortsighted sacrifice!

START PUSHING THEIR USE – g 4/13 p. 16 Get to Our Online Content Quickly!

Beginning with this issue, Awake! will feature QR (quick response) codes. What are they? Special matrix codes that will give you easy access to our Web site. All you need is a tablet that has a camera and Internet access or a smartphone.

DON’T FEEL PRESSURED TO BUY ONE – w2014 8/15 pp3-5:-

“However, you can remain spiritually strong whether you have access to our Web site or not. The slave has worked hard to provide enough printed material to keep each domestic spiritually well-fed. Therefore, you should not feel obligated to buy a device just to access jw.org. Some may make private arrangements to print a limited amount of material published on our Web site and give it personally to those who do not have Internet access, but congregations are not required to do this.”

USE ONE ON THE MINISTRY AND AT THE MEETINGS – 2016 May 2-8 Christian Life and Ministry

‘APPLY YOURSELF TO THE MINISTRY’

Prepare This Month’s Presentations: Discussion. Play each sample presentation video, and then discuss the highlights. Briefly refer to “Ways to Use JW Library” when discussing the use of a mobile device. Remind the audience to report each month the number of times they showed a video in the ministry. Encourage publishers to build their own presentation.

‘LIVING AS CHRISTIANS’

“Are You Using JW Library?”: (15 min.) Begin with a five-minute discussion of the article. Then play and briefly discuss the video. Start Using “JW Library.” Afterward, do the same with the videos “Download and Manage Publications” and “Customize the Reading Experience”. Encourage all who can to install the JW Library app and download publications to their mobile device before the part “Ways to Use JW Library” is discussed during the week of May 16.

Note: Maybe the Teaching committee should use a tablet to work out meeting item timings. The above 15 minute item has a 5:00 minute introduction, then three videos of 3:09, 4:42 and 4:12 respectively. The videos alone add up to 12 minutes and 3 seconds. Briefly discussing each of the three videos (3 x 1 minute?) and the encouragement in the conclusion (1 minute?) gives a talk time of 21 minutes, not 15!!

What does it say about the level of control they exercise when even your tablet use is dictated? Expect tablet use to be pushed harder as they cut back further on their printing, when for decades a measure of success in the yearbook was the amount of spiritual food printed and distributed.

*** yb04 p. 231 Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) ***

“There was no lack of spiritual food. The brothers continued to print and distribute Bible-based publications.”

DID JEPHTHAH SACRIFICE HIS DAUGHTER?

YES – w1901 9/1 R2874 p. 287

We are to accept the scriptural statement that Jephthah was amongst the faithful–acceptable to God. As such he must also be acceptable to us. In respect to his offering his daughter in sacrifice our conclusion must be that the divine arrangement then and now differs materially. We may say, however, that as Abraham was about to offer his son Isaac, not willingly, but through obedience to what he understood to be the divine will, so did Jephthah with his daughter; and he was not hindered by an angel from the Lord.

NO – w1901 10/15 R2897 p.333 (one month later!)

Such a vow would have been impious, and could not have been performed. It may be safely concluded

that Jephthah’s daughter was devoted to perpetual virginity;

DANIELS IMAGE – DO THE 10 TOES HAVE SPECIAL MEANING?

YES – 1944 The Kingdom Is At Hand p.188

“The ten toes of the image picture the complete number or all of the religious-political governments of men at the time of such climax.”

YES – w59 5/15 p.313 par.36

“The number ten being a Biblical number symbolizing earthly completeness, the ten toes picture all such coexisting powers and governments.”

NO – w78 6/15 p.13 Human Governments Crushed by God’s Kingdom

“There does not appear to be any prophetic significance to the image’s having ten toes. This is a natural human feature, just as the image has two arms, two legs, and so forth.”

YES – w85 7/1 p.31 Questions From Readers

“Various views have been expressed about the ten “toes.” But since “ten” is often used in the Bible to signify completeness as to things on earth, the ten “toes” appear logically to represent the entire global system of rulership at the culmination of the days”

NO – w12 6/15 p.14 Jehovah Reveals What “Must Shortly Take Place”

Para 11. “when describing the image, Daniel does not mention the number of toes. Therefore, the number seems no more significant than the fact that the image had multiple arms, hands, fingers, legs, and feet.”

WHAT DO THE IRON AND CLAY REPRESENT? (Dan 2:43)

Church and State – 1886 – Plan of the Ages p.234

Civil government and ecclesiastical government, Papacy. – Old Thelogy QuarterlyNo.48 Jan 1900 p.27 Satan’s disunified world – w58 2/15 p. 102

Capitalists and Socialists – w59 5/15 p. 314 par. 38 Part 14

All the coexisting powers and governments on earth today – w69 5/15 p. 304 par. 8

The Conservative Party and the Radical Party – 1977 go chap. 3 p. 38 par. 3

Authoritarian government and the common people – 1977 go chap. 3 p. 63 par. 56

Socialistic and communistic rulers – w81 5/15 p. 26 par. 22

Anglo-American World Power with radical popular movements – w84 1/1 p. 6

Socialistic and democratic rulerships – w85 7/1 p. 31

Harsh dictatorships and more pliable democratic forms of government – w85 7/1 p. 27 par. 16

Political fragmentation – w97 11/1 p. 6

Elements within the realm of the iron like Anglo-American World Power – w12 6/15 p. 19 The weakened state of the Anglo-American World Power. – w12 9/15 p. 7 par. 13

LECITHIN

May be derived from blood so ask the manufacturer – w63 2/15 p. 123 Carry Your Own Load of Responsibility

For example, while lecithin is found in blood, it is also derived from soybeans, which happen to be the common commercial source of most lecithin. If there is doubt about a product, it is up to the individual to investigate by inquiring of the manufacturer. The substance may have been derived from blood or it may not.

Is not derived from blood – no need to ask the manufacturer – w79 3/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers some Christians have refused to eat any product having lecithin listed as an ingredient. Others have felt

compelled to write to manufacturers to check on the source of the lecithin used in certain foods… there is no reason for any manufacturer to seek to have lecithin extracted from blood

Note: Once again (and with a hint of ridicule) it is ‘some Christians‘, and ‘others‘ who have ‘felt compelled to write to manufacturers’. There is no mention that they were TOLD to do so by the Governing Body.

FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT (GAL 5:22) – ‘PATIENCE’ OR ‘LONG SUFFERING’?

PATIENCE – wt 1879 Oct p.1

PATIENCE – wt 1915 4/1 p. 5659

LONG SUFFERING – wt 1915 9/1 p. 5757

LONG SUFFERING – wt 1949 3/15 p.87 par.19

LONG SUFFERING – wt 2013 5/15 p.22 par.15

PATIENCE – RNWT 2013 Gal 5:22

1874

Early on in WT history it was taught that many prophetic events happened in the late 1800’s.

When time proved these to all be in error, the WT repeatedly rewrote that part of their history by claiming they had anticipated different dates to the ones they actually anticipated. This has been done so thoroughly that decades of teachings have essentially been rewritten:

W 1896 03/01 (Reprints p. 1942)

20 years from now, the times of restitution shall be fully ushered in and none except willful sinners will die

The Time Is At Hand, 1902

Since that time it has been emphatically manifest that the time had come in A.D. 1878 when kingly judgment should begin at the house of God. It is here that Rev. 14:14-20 applies, and our Lord is brought to view as the Reaper crowned. The year A.D. 1878, being the parallel of his assuming power and authority in the type, clearly marks the time for the actual assuming of power as King of kings, by our present, spiritual, invisible Lord–the time of his taking to himself his great power to reign, which in the prophecy is closely associated with the resurrection of his faithful, and the beginning of the trouble and wrath upon the nations.

The Time Is At Hand, 1902, page 101

Be not surprised, then, when in subsequent chapters we present proofs that the setting up of the Kingdom of God is already begun, that it is pointed out in prophecy as due to begin the exercise of power in A.D. 1878, and that the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.

The Battle of Armageddon, 1913, page 621-622.

Our Lord, the appointed King, is now present, since October 1874, A.D., according to the testimony of the prophets, to those who have ears to hear it: the formal inauguration of his kingly office dates from April 1878, A.D.: … Consequently the Kingdom, as represented in our Lord, and the sleeping saints already fitted and prepared and found worthy to be members of “his body,” the “bride,” was set up in 1878;

Note: Forget about “nearly four decades before those times expired”. Only one year before “those times expired” the Watchtower Society was still teaching that “the birth of God’s kingdom in heaven with Christ Jesus as king” occurred in 1878. In actuality the Watchtower Society did not start teaching that 1914 marked “the birth of God’s kingdom in heaven with Christ Jesus as king” until decades after 1914.

The Harp of God, 1921, page 231

There are two important dates here that we must not confuse, but clearly differentiate, namely, the beginning of “the time of the end” and of “the presence of the Lord”. “The time of the end” embraces a period from A.D. 1799, as above indicated…

w22 11/1, page 333.

Bible prophecy shows that the Lord was due to appear for the second time in the year 1874. Fulfilled prophecy shows beyond a doubt that he did appear in 1874. Fulfilled prophecy is otherwise designated the physical facts; and these facts are indisputable.

w24 1/1 p.4 para.11 facts establish beyond all question that since 1874 the Lord has been harvesting the saints by gathering them together from all quarters of the earth from every denomination, and outside of all denominations.

w27 2/15, page 54.

The proof is quite clear and convincing that the second presence of our Lord dates from 1874, and that from that time forward the Lord Jesus has been gathering together those who have made a covenant with the Lord God by sacrifice.

Note: In the early 20th century, even after 1914/1919, the WT Society was teaching that Christ received Kingdom power in 1878. As late as 1927 the Watchtower was still teaching 1874 as the date for the invisible return and second presence of Christ. In fact, the proof for it was said to be “clear and convincing” and “beyond a doubt” at that time.

The Watchtower Society have deceived readers into believing that Watchtower doctrine has remained consistent “since long before World War I”, and that the Society is not a false prophet. Not only are they proven false on both counts, but they are proven to be liars as well.

Question: So how have these teachings been altered and covered up, in order to save embarrassment? It’s by saying that the early Bible Students were looking forward to 1914, and not 1874!!

Awake!, January 22, 1973, page 8.

Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to the year 1914, decades in advance, as marking the start of “the conclusion of the system of things.”

w54 6/15 page 370.

Why, then, do the nations not realize and accept the approach of this climax of judgment? It is because they have not heeded the world-wide advertising of Christ’s return and his second presence. Since long before World War I Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to 1914 as the time for this great event to occur.

Note: According to this Watchtower, “since long before World War I” Jehovah’s Witnesses pointed to 1914 as the time for “Christ’s return and his second presence”! As already seen, this is untrue – they were pointing to 1874 at that time!

1975 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, page 37.

True to such calculations, 1914 did mark the end of those times and the birth of God’s kingdom in heaven with Christ Jesus as king. Just think of it! Jehovah granted his people that knowledge nearly four decades before those times expired.

Man’s Salvation (1975) chap. 16 p. 287 par. 12 Awaiting the “New Heavens and a New Earth”

Russell calculated that Christ’s “presence” had begun in the year 1874 C.E., unseen to human eyes and seen only by the eye of faith. This was why, when he began publishing a new religious magazine in defense of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Russell entitled it “Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence.” However, events on earth since the end of the “appointed times of the [Gentile] nations” have been fulfilling Bible prophecy and prove that the promised “presence” or parousia of Christ in Kingdom power began first about October 4/5, 1914 C.E.

w90 9/1 page 11.

In May 1920 the malaria flared up again, and I was sent up into the hills to recuperate… Months later, down in Kanpur, I started a Bible study group, hoping to learn more about the Lord’s return. It was there that I met Fredrick James, a former British soldier who was now a zealous Bible Student. He explained to me that Jesus had been present since 1914, invisible to man. This was the most thrilling news I had ever heard.

Note: This is impossible, since in 1920 ‘Frederick James’ would be teaching that Jesus had been present since 1874, not 1914! This lie to cover up their 1874 mistake has been repeated time and again since:

w93 1/15 p. 5 ‘Caught Away to Meet the Lord’—How?

When a foreign head of State visits a country, the dates of his presence there are generally announced.

This has been true of the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Watchtower has consistently presented evidence to honesthearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914. Events since that year testify to Jesus’ invisible presence. (Matthew 24:3-14)

jv Proclaimers book (1993) chap. 28 pp. 631-632 Testing and Sifting From Within

Based on the premise that events of the first century might find parallels in related events later, they also concluded that if Jesus’ baptism and anointing in the autumn of 29 C.E. paralleled the beginning of an invisible presence in 1874, then his riding into Jerusalem as King in the spring of 33 C.E. would point to the spring of 1878 as the time when he would assume his power as heavenly King. They also thought they would be given their heavenly reward at that time.

w98 9/15, page 15.

Similarly, a prophecy providentially caused sincere 19th-century Bible students to be in expectation. By linking the “seven times” of Daniel 4:25 with “the times of the Gentiles,” they anticipated that Christ would receive Kingdom power in 1914.

w2017 Feb. Study Ed. P.25 Para. 8

In the late 19th century, Charles Taze Russell … Zion’s Watch Tower Tract Society … with Brother Russell as president. … He discerned that Christ would return invisibly and that “the appointed times of the nations” would end in 1914.

Note: Not at all true! They may be embarrassed that they got the date wrong, but to lie and rewrite their history is deceitful and dishonest. They would not let the Catholic Church get away with such deceptions!

DO THE GREAT CROWD PARTAKE OF THE EMBLEMS?

– w87 6/15 p. 19 par. 13 Testing and Sifting in Modern Times

1986: It was appreciated that both the remnant and the “great crowd” must figuratively partake of Jesus’ flesh and blood by accepting his sacrifice in order to be in harmony with him.—John 6:53-56 “Accordingly Jesus said to them: “Most truly I say to YOU, Unless YOU eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, YOU have no life in yourselves. ⁵⁴ He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has everlasting life, and I shall resurrect him at the last day; ⁵⁵ for my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. ⁵⁶ He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood remains in union with me, and I in union with him”.

WILL THERE BE A ‘RAPTURE’?

YES – 1879 Zions Watchtower Oct 1879 No.4 R.41 p.6 “The two Adams”

Those however, who are prepared for it, who are “alive and remain,” (“left over,” Em. Diag.) shall have a corresponding change, for “we shall not all sleep but we shall all be changed.”

YES – 1901 Zions Watchtower Mar 15th 1901 R.2798 p.128

At first we will see him with the eye of faith through the prophetic word of promise only, but the promise is that we also in due time shall be “changed” –to spirit beings. Then “we shall see him as he is; for we shall be like him.”

YES – 1925 Our Lords Return p. 51

These believers who were alive at his coming would when the time came for their death, experience an instantaneous change from human to spirit beings.

NO – 1954 w54 6/15 p. 377 par. 6 Maintaining the Way of Favor

Some religious interpreters of the Bible have concluded from Jesus’ words regarding those taken along and those abandoned that when he returns he will suddenly catch up out of the earth in a “rapture” some whom he has approved while others will be left behind and destroyed by fire. This is private interpretation and a wresting of the Scriptures.

WE DON’T KNOW – w76 6/15 p. 383 Questions From Readers

If some anointed survive into the New Order, will they grow old and die, or how will their earthly life end? Frankly, the Bible does not say.

NO – 1989 rs p. 312 par. 1 Rapture

He reminded them that Jesus was resurrected after his death; so, too, at the coming of the Lord, those faithful Christians among them who had died would be raised to be with Christ.

WE DON’T KNOW -1990 w90 8/15 p. 30 Questions From Readers

Will some anointed Christians survive the “great tribulation” to live on earth in the new world before being taken to heaven? Pointedly, the Bible does not say.

NO – 1993 w93 1/15 p. 5 ‘Caught Away to Meet the Lord’—How?

Christians with the heavenly hope must die before receiving their reward.

NO – w07 1/1 p. 27 par. 7 “The First Resurrection”—Now Under Way!

Paul’s words show that Christians anointed with holy spirit must die before they can receive their heavenly reward.

YES – 2013 w13 7/15 p. 5 “Tell Us, When Will These Things Be?”

Hence, it appears that all anointed ones who remain on earth after the initial part of the gt tribulation has passed will at some point be raised to heaven before the outbreak of the battle of Armageddon.

THE TIME OF THE END BEGAN IN 1799

The Three Worlds (1877) – And, perhaps we can answer: the “time, times, and a-half,” ended in 1798, at the taking away of the papal dominion, and is one of the great landmarks of prophecy. The ending of the 2300 days, something more than thirty years ago, is the great landmark by which the tarrying of the Bridegroom has been made to appear. And the Advent movement, with the message of the opening events of the seventh trumpet, was based on that prophetic period.

Watch Tower, August 1879, p. 24 “The overthrow of that dominion in 1798 by the French Revolution marked the beginning of the ‘time of the end’…”

Watch Tower, November 1, 1914, p. 5565 “The year 1799 marked the beginning of the ‘time of the end,’ when various events were to occur.”

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.”

Creation; 1927, p. 294 “Twelve hundred and sixty years from 539 A.D. brings us to 1799, which is another proof that 1799 definitely marks the beginning of “the time of the end.” this also shows that it is from the date 539 A.D. that the other prophetic days of Daniel must be counted.”

Note this hypocritical statement by the WTS: (Watchtower Sept. 1, 1989 p. 12)

“Some Roman Catholics have claimed that Jesus Christ’s thousand Year Reign ended in 1799 when French armies captured Rome and deposed the pope as its ruler, so that he was deported as a prisoner to France, where he died.”

– This is a classic example of WT pointing the finger at another religion, when the WT was guilty of doing the exact same thing!

TEACHING OF THE 1925 EARTHLY RESURRECTION

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,” (Millions Now Living Will Never Die, p. 89).

1922 “The period must end in 1925. The type ending, the antitype must begin; and therefore 1925 is definitely fixed in the scriptures. every thinking person can see that a great climax is at hand. The

Scriptures clearly indicate that the climax is the fall of Satan’s empire and the full establishment of the Messianic kingdom. This climax being reached by 1925, and that marking the beginning of the fulfillment of the long promised blessings of life to the people, millions now living on earth will be living then and those who obey the righteous laws of the new arrangement will live forever. Therefore it can be confidently said at this time that millions now living will never die.” (Golden Age, Jan. 4, 1922, p. 217)

1922 “The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the “time of the end” began in 1799; that the Lord’s second presence began in 1874.” (The Watchtower, March 1, 1922)

1922 “We have no doubt whatever in regard to the chronology relating to the dates of 1874, 1914, 1918, and 1925. It was on this line of reckoning that the dates 1874, 1914, and 1918 were located; and the Lord has placed the stamp of his seal upon 1914 and 1918 beyond any possibility of erasure. What further evidence do we need? Using this same measuring line…. it is an easy matter to locate 1925, probably in the fall, for the beginning of the antitypical jubilee. There can be no more question about 1925 than there was about 1914.” (Watchtower, p. 150, May 15, 1922)

1922 “It is on the basis of such and so many correspondencies — in accordance with the soundest laws known to science- that we affirm that, Scripturally, scientifically, and historically, present-truth chronology is correct beyond a doubt. Its reliability has been abundantly confirmed by the dates and events of 1874, 1914, and 1918. Present-truth chronology is a secure basis on which the consecrated child of God may endeavor to search out things to come.” (Watchtower, June 15 1922)

1922 “This chronology is not of man, but of God. Being of divine origin and divinely corroborated, present-truth chronology stands in a class by itself, absolutely and unqualifiedly correct….” (Watchtower, July 15, 1922 p. 217)

1. ‘1914 ended the Gentile Times…The date 1925 is even more distinctly indicated by the Scriptures…

by then the great crisis will be reached and probably passed’ (Watchtower Sept. 1, 1922, p. 262)

1. ‘1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures…the Christian has much more upon which to base his faith than Noah had (so far as the Scriptures reveal) upon which to base his faith in the coming deluge’ (Watchtower April 1, 1923, p. 106)

1. “Our thought is, that 1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures. As to Noah, the Christian now has much more upon which to base his faith than Noah had upon which to base his faith in a coming deluge.” (Watchtower, p. 106, March 1, 1923)

1. “No doubt many boys and girls who read this book will live to see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Daniel, and those other men of old come forth in the glory of their better resurrection, of perfect in mind and body. It will not take long for Christ to appoint them to their post of honor and authority as his earthly representatives. The world and all the present conveniences will seem strange to them at first, but they will soon become accustomed to the new methods. They may have some amusing experiences at first; for they never saw telephones, radios, automobiles, electric lights, aeroplanes, steam engines, and many other things so familiar to us. (The Way To Paradise, 1924, p. 226)

1924 “Surely there is not the slightest room for doubt in the mind of a truly consecrated child of God that the Lord Jesus is present and has been since 1874.” (Watchtower, Jan. 1, 1924, p5)

1924 “The year 1925 is a date definitely and clearly marked in Scriptures, even more clearly than that of 1914. (Watchtower 1924, p. 211)

1. “We cannot be blamed for presenting from the Scriptures such evidence as they afford which leads us to believe that a certain event will take place at a given time. Some times the Lord has let His people looking for the right thing at the wrong time, and more frequently they have looked for the wrong things at the right time. But all the enemies of the cause of present truth in the earth are fervently hoping that the Bible students will not be so successful in 1925 in looking for the right thing at the right time as they were in 1914. If they are, however, it will be the other fellow that will have to do the explaining, and not we.” (The Golden Age, Feb. 13, 1924, p. 314)

1. “The year 1925 is here. With great expectation Christians have looked forward to this year.

Many have confidently expected that all members of the body of Christ will be changed to heavenly glory during this year. This may be accomplished. It may not be. In his own due time God will accomplish his purposes concerning his people. Christians should not be so deeply concerned about what may transpire this year,” (Watchtower, Jan. 1, 1925, p. 3).

1925 “It is to be expected that Satan will try to inject into the minds of the consecrated, the thought that 1925 should see an end to the work,” (Watchtower, Sept., 1925, p. 262).

1925 “The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, they were inclined to throw away everything.” (wt 1925, p. 56) (Note: w99 12/1 p. 6 The Apocalypse—To Be Feared or Hoped For?

scholar Robert Mounce pointed out, “unfortunately, many [early Christians] allowed their imaginations to

run riot and read into the thousand-year period all manner of materialistic and sensuous extremes.”)

1931 “There was a measure of disappointment on the part of Jehovah’s faithful ones on earth concerning the years 1917, 1918, and 1925, which disappointment lasted for a time… and they also learned to quit fixing dates,” (Vindication, p. 338).

1968 “True, there have been those in times past who predicted an ‘end to the world’, even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The ‘end’ did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying. Why? What was missing?.. Missing from such people were God’s truths and evidence that he was using and guiding them,” (Awake, Oct. 8, 1968).

Jan 1975 Fred Franz – Australia District Convention (Gordon Brydon recording 0:10:00 – 0:11:00)

“… the mistake that was made regarding the year 1900 and 25 …”

“… so all kinds of predictions were made regarding that year … “

“… Brother Rutherford made this statement with regard to 1900 and 25: ‘I made an ass of myself’…” “… we are not going to set dates in the future… there will be no more of such nonsense as that.”

PYRAMIDOLOGY

Prior to 1928 – “God’s Stone Witness and Prophet” Used to predict dates – Thy Kingdom Come, 1891, p.313, 16, 17, 342, 362

1928 – Satan’s Bible; not God’s Stone Witness. WT 11/15/28 p.344, p.841

1930 – Just a pile of stones Light II, 1930, p.286

1933 – It is idolatry Preparation p.239

1935 – A delusion, speculations and a trap w35 5/1 p. 142

1935 – Worse than nonsense – g35 3/13 p.355

1. – A monument of demonism w55 11/15 p. 697 par. 32 “Jehovah Is in His Holy Temple”

He [Jehovah] has also exposed the great Pyramid of Giza as being, not “God’s stone witness” or “the Bible in stone,” but a monument of demonism to glorify belief in immortality of the soul or “survival after death.”

1. – w56 5/15 p. 300 The Great Pyramid of Giza

Thus, this most logical explanation of all as to the reasons underlying the construction of the Great

Pyramid of Giza would indicate that it certainly was not built by those engaging in the true worship of Jehovah God but by those devoted to astrology, a manifestation of Devil religion, and was built in furtherance of such religion.

1. – w57 5/15 p. 316 par. 17 Appreciating Basic Christian Publications

[In the Watchtower of November 15 and December 1, 1928] you learn what is wrong with this idea: First, Egypt was a Devil-ruled pagan country, not a place for divine revelation; second, God does not accomplish his work through the type of slave labor that built the pyramids; third, Christians are told that they must live by faith, not by sight; and fourth, if the Christian congregation was to be taught by the measurements of this ancient pile of stone either Jesus or some of the apostles would have said something about it; and they did not.

1968 – w68 3/1 p. 146 par. 25 Rejoicing in the God of True Worship

During the years from 1919 onward, sanctimonious dress, the viewing of the great pyramid of Egypt as “the Bible in Stone,” the observance of pagan feasts such as the so-called “Christmas,” the use of pagan symbols such as the cross, and other religious uncleanness, persisted for a time.

1993 jv chap. 14 p. 201 “They Are No Part of the World”

“For some 35 years, Pastor Russell thought that the Great Pyramid of Gizeh was God’s stone witness, corroborating Biblical time periods. (Isa. 19:19) But Jehovah’s Witnesses have abandoned the idea that an Egyptian pyramid has anything to do with true worship. (See Watchtower issues of November 15 and December 1, 1928”

WAS DEBORAH A JUDGE?

(Judges 4:4, 5) Now Deb’o·rah, a prophetess, the wife of Lap’pi·doth, was judging Israel at that time. She used to sit under Deb’o·rah’s palm tree between Ra’mah and Beth’el in the mountainous region of E’phra·im; the Israelites would go up to her for judgment.

NO – w62 6/15 p. 367 par. 31 Foretelling Him to Whom All People’s Obedience Belongs the Reubenites did not go to the support of Judge Barak and the prophetess Deborah.

YES – w66 8/1 p. 474 Barak—Judge and Deliverer of Israel

Though judge and prophetess, Deborah kept her place, setting a fine example for all Christian women.

NO – w73 12/15 p. 755 par. 4 Why Exult in Spite of Personal Hardships?

as in the days of Judge Barak and the prophetess Deborah.

YES – w78 2/1 p. 14 Success Only by Reliance on Jehovah

Thirteen judges are named, including Deborah, a prophetess and judge.

NO – w78 11/1 p. 10 Visiting Where It Happened

From there Judge Barak, with Deborah, descended and defeated the surprised Canaanites.

SORT OF/NOT REALLY – w80 11/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers while Deborah can properly be described as a prophetess, it is only in a general sense that she was

doing a measure of judging in Israel; she was not taking the full place of a male judge in Israel.

NO – ws (1980) chap. 2 p. 18 par. 12 The “Prince of Peace” Faces Armageddon

In the days of Judge Barak and the prophetess Deborah,

NOT SURE – w86 6/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

Aside from these 12, the Bible mentions Deborah, Eli, and Samuel in connection with judging. However, Deborah is called first a prophetess, and she is linked with Judge Barak.

NO – w91 8/15 p. 26 Jehovah—”A Manly Person of War” through the prophetess Deborah, Jehovah summoned Judge Barak to assemble ten thousand warriors.

YES – (2004) My Book of Bible Stories chap.50 “Two Brave Women”

Deborah is also a judge. She sits under a certain palm tree in the hill country, and people come to her to get help with their problems.

NO – w2014 8/15 p. 8 “What is the Role of Women in Jehovah’s purpose?” par. 12

In the days of Israel’s judges, one woman who had God’s backing was the prophetess Deborah. She encouraged Judge Barak…

Note:

The WT love to use the term ‘Judge Barak’, but Barak is nowhere referred to as a judge in the Bible whereas Deborah is twice. The account also shows Deborah as the driving force in defeating the enemy. Deborah summons Barak to her, describes the tactics he must use, accompanies him when he feels unworthy, then receives the principle praise in the subsequent victory song.

This does not fit with the WT view of women having any authority so the WT, going beyond what is written, labels Barak as ‘Judge Barak’ but Deborah as a mere prophetess.

SHOULD YOU HATE WRONGDOERS?

YES – w52 10/1 p. 599 par. 11 A Strong Refuge Today

Haters of God and his people are to be hated … We must hate in the truest sense, which is to regard with extreme and active aversion, to consider as loathsome, odious, filthy, to detest. Surely any haters of God are not fit to live on his beautiful earth.

YES – w61 7/15 p. 420 A Time and Place for Everything in order to hate what is bad a Christian must hate the person with whom the badness is inseparably

linked.

NO – w74 8/1 p. 467 par. 5 Maintaining a Balanced Viewpoint Toward Disfellowshiped Ones

It is right to hate the wrong committed by the disfellowshiped one, but it is not right to hate the person

NOT NECESSARILY – w11 12/1 pp. 23-24 “A Time to Love and a Time to Hate” there are certain practices that God hates. Yet, he does not necessarily hate the person who commits

such things.

WHO ARE THE ‘BIRDS’ IN THE MUSTARD TREE (MT 13:4)?

SATAN – Zion’s Watch Tower under date of May 15, 1900, page 153

The ‘fowls of the air’ in the preceding parable of the sower represented Satan and his agents

WORLD OF MANKIND – w75 10/1 p. 590 par. 6 Things Which the “Kingdom of the Heavens” Is Like all the world of mankind would be like birds by their lodging in the refuge provided by the Kingdom.

SATAN – w75 10/1 p. 597 par. 9 The Exposing of the False Kingdom Refuge the agents of Satan the Devil to take refuge in, like the “birds of heaven” lodging among the branches

of the full-grown mustard-seed tree.

RIGHT-HEARTED ONES – w08 7/15 p. 18 par. 8 You Do Not Know Where It Will Have Success!

These birds do not represent enemies of the Kingdom who try to eat up the good seeds, as was true of the birds in the illustration of the man who scattered seed on different kinds of soil. (Mark 4:4) Rather, in this illustration the birds represent righthearted ones who seek protection within the confines of the Christian congregation.

The Insight book has also undergone a stealthy revision on this topic, to remove this teaching. it-1 Bound Volume (1988) p. 1179, Illustrations

It should also be noted that in the context “birds” are referred to in a negative sense; they are shown to represent “the wicked one.”—Mt 13:4, 19; Lu 8:12.

The Insight book on wol.jw.org changes this to remove all mention of the birds:

In a comparable way, the Christian congregation started in a very small way on Pentecost 33 C.E. But in the first century, it grew rapidly, and in modern times, the branches of the mustard “tree” have expanded to beyond expectations.—Isa. 60:22 (Watchtower Online, Insight book, Illustrations)

WHEN DOES THE DISGUSTING THING STAND IN A HOLY PLACE?

1914 – w39 4/1 p. 110

1945 – w53 9/15 p. 563 par. 23 Flight to Safety with the New World Society 1914 – w60 4/1 p. 217 par. 18 Part 35—”Your Will Be Done on Earth” 1945 – w74 12/1 p. 718 United Nations—Religion’s Friend or Foe?

Still future – w99 5/1 p. 17 par. 13 “Let the Reader Use Discernment”

ARE SYMBOLS (PINS/BADGES) IDOLATRY?

*** km 9/74 p. 8 Question Box ***

Furthermore, we do not want to give others the impression that the Tetragrammaton is the symbol of Jehovah’s witnesses as a whole. We have no organizational symbol to identify ourselves but show that we are Jehovah’s Christian witnesses by living in harmony with God’s will.

*** w00 1/1 p. 9 par. 15 Serving With the Watchman ***

For example, in the 1920’s many Bible Students wore a pin featuring a cross-and-crown emblem, and they celebrated Christmas and other pagan holidays. However, for worship to be pure, all vestiges of idolatry must be discarded. God’s Word, the Holy Bible, must be the sole basis of the Christian’s faith and way of life.

*** km 4/09 p. 4 Question Box ***

Congregations or individuals should not use logos or names of the organization’s legal entities, or variations thereof, on their Kingdom Halls, signs, letterhead, personal objects, and so forth…

The Watch Tower logo, or a variation of it, should not be used in future Kingdom Hall projects even if the Kingdom Hall is owned by a Watch Tower entity.

*** 2014 onwards:

THE CORRECT VIEW OF FLAGS

• w1917 5/15 (reprints) 6068 “Everyone in America should take pleasure in displaying the American flag”

• w49 12/1 p.365 par.2

But note what worldly authorities say as to the meaning of the flag: “The flag, like the cross, is sacred…”

• w54 11/15 p. 685 par. 5 The Sacredness of Our Warfare

Says the Encyclopædia Britannica: “It appears that several companies of the Egyptian army had their own particular standards. These were associated in the minds of the men with feelings of awe and devotion… The Roman standards were guarded with religious veneration in the temples at Rome and the reverence of this people for their ensigns was in proportion to their superiority to other nations…”

• w54 11/15 p. 686 pars. 5-6 The Sacredness of Our Warfare

The Roman soldier swore by his ensign… Early flags were almost purely of a religious character… That such religious feelings carry over even to this late day is borne out by the statement of the Encyclopedia Americana under the subheading “Respect or Reverence for the Flag.” The statement reads: “The flag, like the cross, is sacred.”

• w56 10/1 p. 581 Flags and Religion

Would not, therefore, one’s veneration and worship of the flag, “every moment of one’s life,” and that “in the paroxysm of passion” that is “unrestrained and unconditional” be a giving to Caesar the things that belong exclusively to God? Think it over.

• w57 3/1 p. 136 Insight into the World’s Woes

Historian Arnold J. Toynbee made a statement a few years ago that was apt then but even more apt today, as we see the world blazing with the fires of nationalism. “One of the reasons why our times are dangerous,” Dr. Toynbee said, “is that we have all been taught to worship our nation, our flag, our own past history. Man may safely worship only God.”

• w65 1/1 pp. 11-12 par. 33 Does Your Worship to God Come First?

This was a deliberate attempt on the part of Satan the Devil, Babylon’s real god, to get these three Hebrews to bow down to the State, the State’s image, be it a monument, standard or flag.

• w65 1/1 p. 7 par. 15 Does Your Worship to God Come First?

Ignoring the thinking ability of some who want to live as the Bible directs, the dictator of a group will try to force all the people to rally around him, to do obeisance to a man-made ensign, flag, image or a symbol of the group’s way of life.

• w66 6/1 p. 344 Can You Avoid the Mark of the Beast?

An increasing number of rulers today are demanding worship of themselves or their flags, placing their political government higher than the kingdom of God.

• g71 9/8 p. 13 What Do You Know About Flags?

We have seen that ancient-peoples gave religious worship to their standards, the forerunners of modern-day flags. Do you think people today do the same? …[The flag is] “an idolatrous symbol”.

• g76 9/8 p. 4 Benin Suppresses Freedom of Worship

To achieve a nationalistic spirit among their peoples, nations have set up objects that actually are given religious veneration. As historian Carlton Hayes observes in his book What Americans Believe and How They Worship: “Nationalism’s chief symbol of faith and central object of worship is the flag…”

• w77 11/15 p. 686 Why Persecution of Christians?

For a Christian witness of Jehovah to give devotion, worship or service to, or to bow to or salute any image or idol is a grave sin in the eyes of God.

• w95 10/1 p. 22 Following in My Parents’ Footsteps

Brother Rutherford’s voice boomed: “Let them salute their flags and heil men if they wish. We shall worship and heil only Jehovah our God!”

Chilean flag in Kingdom Hall during the Fiestas Patrias, and flags at the 2015 R.C. in Fribourg, Switzerland

GOD’S VIEW OF CALENDARS

Calendars are demonic – Awake! 1935 3/13 p. 356

In this series of articles it will be shown that all the foregoing calendars are calendars of the Devil.

Jehovah’s Calendar – Yearbook 1935

The new names for the days of the week:

Lightday, (first day of the week), Heavenday, Earthday, Starday, Lifeday, Mansday, Godsday.

The new names of the months, starting with the first month:

Redemption, Life, Visitment, Freedom, Vindication, Hope, King, Peace, Order, Logo, Jehovah, Temple

Pg 428 – April 10, 1935 – part 3 :

The evidence herein seems to clearly prove that the day of Christ’s birth was King 3, Edenic day No.

1470658, completing week No. 210094, God’s month No. 49801, B.R. 34 (Oct.1, B.C.2). He was born on a

Mansday (Friday), and died on the same day of the week, which, in hereafter be shown, was Redemption

14, Edenic day No. 1482894, completing week No. 211842, God’s month No. 50215, year of Ransom 1

(Friday April 1, A.D. 33). The time of his death was 9:00 D. (“the ninth hour” of the day, 3:00 p.m.)

P.381

Back to normality – The WT continue to print a regular calendar

*** km 4/70 p. 3 Using the “Yearbook” ***

Are you currently conducting a home Bible study? If so, have you supplied the householder with a copy of the 1970 Yearbook and calendar?

*** w72 1/15 p. 63 Questions From Readers ***

Many of today’s articles of clothing and aspects of life originated in pagan lands. The present time divisions of hours, minutes and seconds are based on an early Babylonian system. Yet, there is no objection to a Christian’s using these time divisions, for one’s doing so does not involve carrying on false religious practices.

Remember, this was from Jehovah – w01 8/1 p. 14 par. 8

Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.”

ASTROLOGY IS

SCRIPTURALLY CONDEMNED – Isaiah 47:13, 14

“Those who worship the heavens, who gaze at the stars, Those giving out knowledge at the new moons

About the things that will come upon you. Look! They are like stubble. A fire will burn them up.”

POSSIBLY CORRECT – w1881 July and August Vol. III R249 p.8

…it is possible that both astrology and scripture may be correct concerning the coming events, but our confidence and sole reliance is on the latter.

LINKED TO SATANSIM – w1897 July 15 Vol. XVIII R2186 p.211

If anything, this is calculated to lend them still greater interest in the eyes of the world which, at the end of the nineteenth century, shows itself especially ready to dabble in Satanism, crystal-gazing, astrology, theosophy, spiritualism and magic, both black and white.

REMARKABLY TRUE – w1903 May 1st Vol.XXIV R3184 p.131

WE seriously question all the claims of Astrology; yet the following–from whatever source the suggestions come, even though of the Adversary himself–seem remarkably true to our expectations based upon the Word of the Lord. For this reason alone we present them here, –as follows:– “Saturn is the representative of the great motive power… When Uranus and Jupiter meet in the humane sign of Aquarius in 1914, the long-promised era will have made a fair start…

[what follows is a detailed astrology forecast!]

SATANIC – w1905 Oct 1st Vol. XXVI R3637 p.293

The above thoughts came to us as we recently read the predictions of some noted astrologers, whose information we credit to the spirit demons and not to ability to read destiny in the stars. One of these in particular closely touches dates and incidents on the line of our Scriptural expectations as follows:– [Another astrology forecast!]

UNDECIDED – w1906 Jan 1st Vol. XXVII R3703 p.14

Without attempting to determine how much or how little truth attaches to astrology,

NOBLE MINDED – w1909 Dec 15 Vol.XXX R4534 p.375

Because they had no special revelation from God, the nobler minds amongst the other nations gave special study to the starry heavens along the lines of astronomy or astrology. The stars were charted and certain lessons were said to be learned therefrom bearing upon humanity’s welfare.

DEMONISM – w1920 2/15 p.56 Par.2

It is well known to students of the Bible that these wise men and sorcerers were devotees of astrology-a form of demonism.

OCCULTISM – w1922 2/15 p.54 Par.6

Yet another may be interested in and a defender of some form of occultism. Many of these forms seem to be harmless enough-astrology, for example.

MUST NOT READ ASTROLOGY FORECASTS – w1922 7/1 p.196 Par.8

Many newspapers publish a forecast or horoscope of the day, week, or month. These things seem as free from danger as the smooth surface of quicksand; but to take the first step may engn1f the curious. To read astrological literature and to believe the one-sided and false evidence prepared under demoniacal influence is to have the mind tilled like the soil of a garden for more seeds of the doctrines of devils.

A DISFELLOWSHIPABLE OFFENCE – w1922 7/1 p.197 Par. 8

The attitude of the primitive church was for three hundred years fixed and unbending on the matter of astrology. It was strenuously contended by its members that belief in the month you were born in” is a heresy, and a person so believing was refused admission to the church; a Christian who was found to believe this was given his choice of either leaving off or being disfellowshiped. If this was a heresy then, it is a heresy today.

WHO CAN COUNT TIME ON A FAMILY BIBLE STUDY?

One Parent – km 11/03 p. 3 Question Box

“If a Christian parent conducts a family Bible study and unbaptized children are involved, the parent may report a maximum of one hour a week,”

Both Parents – km 9/08 p. 3 Question Box

“In the past, only the parent conducting a family study with unbaptized children would report the time, even when both parents were involved in the discussion. However, this is being adjusted. If during the family study both parents share together in teaching the children, then both may count a maximum of one hour a week as field service. “

Note: This should help to boost the ‘Number of Hours Spent Preaching’ figures in the yearbook statistics!

SUITABLE AGE FOR BAPTISM

*** w06 4/1 pp. 27-28 par. 8 Meeting the Requirements for Christian Baptism ***

Are children in a position to make an intelligent dedication? The Scriptures give no age requirements for baptism. Still, infants certainly could not become believers, exercise faith, or make a dedication to God. (Acts 8:12) Regarding first-century Christians, historian Augustus Neander states in his book General History of the Christian Religion and Church: “Baptism was administered at first only to adults, as men were accustomed to conceive baptism and faith as strictly connected.”

*** w89 1/15 p. 13 par. 17 What Prevents You From Getting Baptized? ***

Baptizing an infant is wrong because a baby cannot understand, make a decision, and become a disciple. (Matthew 28:19, 20) Those baptized during Philip’s ministry in Samaria were “men and women,” not mere infants. (Acts 8:4-8, 12) Baptism is for those old enough to learn, believe, and exercise faith. (John 17:3; Acts 5:14; 18:8; Hebrews 11:6) In this regard, historian Augustus Neander wrote: “. . . the practice of infant baptism was unknown [in the first century C.E.]. . . . That it first became recognised as an apostolic tradition in the course of the third century, is evidence rather against than for the admission of its apostolic origin.”

*** w76 9/15 p. 576 Questions From Readers ***

But is the child able to make personal decisions, able to decide from his own mind and heart (not that of the parents) the course in life he wishes to take? Is he capable of comprehending and seeking a personal relationship with God, one that is not dependent upon his parents? Is he able to stand before a judicial body, accountable for any wrongdoing he may commit? If not, then such child is evidently not in position to be baptized

*** w04 8/15 p.11 Mexico’s Indigenous Peoples Hear the Good News *** I was baptized at age 15.

*** w00 4/15 p.25 Fishing for Men in the Aegean Sea *** . . . in March 1998, she was baptized at the age of 14.

*** yb2002 p.110 Curaçao ***

He was baptized at the age of 13 and works very hard in the congregation, preparing well for all assignments. He is as determined as ever to serve at Bethel.

*** yb1999 p.59 Worldwide Report ***

Their son, 12 years of age, was observing something else: “I noticed that my father and mother, as a result of the study, became nicer, and the atmosphere at home became more positive and relaxed.” The husband now appreciatively says: “Jehovah has been long-suffering with us. He did not want us to get destroyed, but he has led us to repentance.” In about seven months, the entire family got baptized.

*** yb2017 “This is the Heritage of the Servants of Jehovah” p.164 ***

In support of parental training, elders try to involve young ones in congregation activities as early as possible. Nestori, who was baptized when he was 11 years old, states…

*** yb2011 p.54 Preaching and Teaching Earth Wide ***

Now ten years old, Persis is baptized and is serving as an auxiliary pioneer while in school. Her eightyear-old friend Aasy is already an unbaptized publisher.

*** w95 1/1 p.24 “Out of the Mouth of Babes” ***

She was baptized while in the fourth grade (9-10 years old), and one of her friends with whom she had studied was baptized in the sixth grade (11-12 years old). Moreover, the mother and two older sisters of this Bible student also studied and were baptized.

*** yb2017 “JW Broadcasting gives us Strength and Refreshment” p.26 ***

Kodi, from England, says: “Thanks for all the time and effort you put into making jw.org, JW Broadcasting, and the Caleb and Sophia videos. . . I was baptized when I was eight.”

*** yb2011 p.58 Preaching and Teaching Earth Wide ***

BAPTIZED AT SEVEN. Paola, who lives in western Mexico, is being raised by her grandparents.

*** w92 3/1 p.27 Pursuing a Goal Set at Six Years of Age ***

In the summer of 1946, I was baptized at the international convention in Cleveland, Ohio. Although I was only six years of age, I was determined to fulfill my dedication to Jehovah.

How does this tally with w62 6/1 p. 330 par. 3 Why Be Baptized?

it would be improper for infants to be baptized. One must know why he is baptized. Very young

children would be lacking in understanding. It is true that Christ Jesus said: “Let the young children come to me.” But there is no record that he baptized any young children or commanded that they be baptized.

WT Broadcast 2016 February 48:30.

WT Broadcast 2016 Sept 5th. 07:22.

w2016 March p.3 par.1 and 4 Young Ones – Are you Ready to get Baptized?

Par.1 – “I HAVE known you since you were born,” said a Christian elder to 12-year-old Christopher, “and I’m happy to hear that you want to get baptized.”

Par. 4 – The Bible does not suggest that baptism is a step to be taken only by those who are older or who have reached at least an age at which certain legal rights may be granted.

Note: This last sentence is very slyly worded to make it look like the Bible supports child baptisms, whereas the Bible actually only speaks of baptising adults. We could equally say that the Bible does not suggest heavy metal music is wrong or that Regional Conventions are good. The Bible has nothing to say on these topics. Just because the Bible does not comment on a topic, doesn’t mean the Bible endorses it!

WHAT MUST YOU AGREE TO WHEN YOU ARE BAPTISED (THE QUESTIONS)?

(Matthew 28:19) Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit.

WT 1942 Oct. 1 page 302

1) Do you believe in Jehovah God the Father, that “salvation belongeth unto Jehovah”, and that Christ Jesus is his Son in whose blood your sins are washed away & by whom salvation comes to you from God? 2) Have you therefore confessed your sins to God and asked for cleansing by Christ Jesus, and therefore turned away from sin and the world, and consecrated yourself without reservation to God to do his will?

WT 1955 July 1 page 411

“A Christian, therefore, cannot be baptized in the name of the one actually doing the immersing or in the name of any man, nor in the name of any organization”

WT 1956 July 1 page 407 (1956 through 1984)

1) Have you recognized yourself before Jehovah God as a sinner who needs salvation, and have you acknowledged to him that this salvation proceeds from him, the Father, through his Son Jesus Christ? 2) On the basis of this faith in God and in his provision for salvation have you dedicated yourself unreservedly to God to do his will henceforth as he reveals it to you through Jesus Christ and through the Bible under the enlightening power of the holy spirit?

WT 1966 Oct. 1 page 603,4

“This is what we mean when we dedicate our lives to Jehovah.

We do not dedicate ourselves to a religion, nor to a man, nor to an organization. No, we dedicate ourselves to the Supreme Sovereign of the Universe, our Creator, Jehovah God himself.”

WT 1973 5/1 280 Baptizing Follows Discipling we suggest that you consider the following two questions, which are asked of candidates for baptism: (1)Have you repented of your sins and turned around, recognizing yourself before Jehovah God as a condemned sinner who needs salvation, and have you acknowledged to him that this salvation proceeds from him, the Father, through his Son Jesus Christ?

(2)On the basis of this faith in God and in his provision for salvation, have you dedicated yourself unreservedly to God to do his will henceforth as he reveals it to you through Jesus Christ and through the Bible under the enlightening power of the holy spirit?

If you find that you can answer “YES” to these questions, then it would be appropriate for you to speak to the presiding overseer in the congregation of Jehovah’s witnesses with which you associate, with a view to getting baptized.

WT 6/1/85 page 30

1. On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?
2. Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God’s spirit-directed organization.

How do these questions compare to the ones John asked Jesus, before he was allowed to get baptised?

SHOULD WE READ THE BIBLE ONLINE?

NO – w02 6/15 p. 15 Follow the Royal Pattern [Box on page 15] “In Our Hands”

“If we want . . . a concordance to the Bible, we can find no better medium than the Internet. But if we want to read the Bible, to study it, think about it, reflect upon it, we should have it in our hands, for that is the only way of getting it into our minds and our hearts.”—Gertrude Himmelfarb, distinguished professor emeritus, City University, New York.

YES – jl (2012) What Is God’s Will?

Learn about us online. Visit the official Web site of Jehovah’s Witnesses at www.jw.org. There you can read the Bible online and view or print out many of our publications in over 400 languages.

YES – jw.org 2016 home page

CAN YOU BE SEXUALLY STERILISED?

NO, IT IS ABSOLUTELY WRONG – w59 7/1 p. 416 Questions From Readers

However, it is absolutely wrong for a person to think that in order to stay free for the Kingdom service and avoid family responsibilities in the way of children he is justified in getting himself sexually sterilized.

NO, IT IS HARMFUL – w61 12/1 p. 735 Questions From Readers sterilization harmfully affects the asexualized person physically and mentally.

NO, IT IS UNSCRIPTURAL – w64 3/1 p. 159 Questions From Readers

Sterilization, whether temporary or permanent, for the specific purpose of birth control would Scripturally be wrong.

YES, IF THE MOTIVE IS RIGHT – w75 3/1 p. 158-159 Questions from Readers

Hence, it would be wrong for one to submit to sterilization or approve of sterilization of one’s wife simply because one has no appreciation for God’s gift of the procreative powers. it appears that such a decision is one that rests on the individual consciences of those involved.

IT CAN LEAD TO MADNESS – g78 2/22 p. 30 Watching the World

vasectomy may produce profound mental anguish in a man and may even lead to madness

IT CAN LEAD TO HEART ATTACK – g79 8/22 p. 29 Watching the World

After the sterilization, the male sperm, denied their normal outlet, seep into the bloodstream. There they apparently set up a reaction… which can lead to a stroke or a heart attack.

YES, BUT IT MIGHT AFFECT YOUR QUALIFICATIONS – w85 5/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers Since the Christian Greek Scriptures give no direct guidance on such matters, Christians must make personal decisions about limiting the size of their family and about [sterilization] birth control.

YES – g96 10/8 p. 14 Who Should Decide Family Size?

In the case of sterilization, such as by a vasectomy, the decision is one of personal conscience, since this is not directly mentioned in the Bible.

YES, BUT IT MIGHT AFFECT YOUR QUALIFICATIONS – w99 6/15 p. 28 Questions From Readers

Some in that situation have reluctantly submitted to a sterilization procedure as described earlier to make sure that no pregnancy would threaten the life of the mother.

MUST WE HONOUR OUR PROMISES?

YES – w68 10/1 p. 606 Questions From Readers

Before a person agrees to a thing, he should give it the forethought the matter demands. Then when he gives his word, he can follow Jesus’ advice to “let your word Yes mean Yes, your No, No.”

IT DEPENDS – w84 9/15 p. 29 Let Joshua Help You Serve Jehovah Courageously!

if we enter into an agreement or give our word on something that is not contrary to God’s principles,

will we be as firmly courageous as Joshua was? Do we keep our word even if it is difficult or inconvenient?

YES – w84 1/15 p. 26 Our “Kingdom Unity” Convention—Why ‘the Best Yet!’ To be God’s guests we must, among other things, keep our word

IT DEPENDS – w89 9/15 pp. 28-29 Who Can Be God’s Friend?

The principle here is that of fulfilling our promises, as God does. Even if we later find that doing what we promised is very difficult, we should not change our mind and renege on our promise. … Of course, if we learn that something we promised is unscriptural, we should not do it.

YES – w98 11/15 p. 27 Should I Ask My Brother for a Loan?

unfavorable circumstances do not excuse us from our responsibilities. A person who fears Jehovah does

his best to keep his word

IT DEPENDS – w06 5/15 p. 19 par. 2 Highlights From Book One of Psalms

Unless we come to the realization that we have made an unscriptural promise, we should do all we can to fulfill our word, even if it is very difficult to do so.

YES – w12 10/15 p. 30 par. 12 Let Your Yes Mean Yes

As much as possible, we must avoid such bad association. Instead, we should regularly gather with those who strive always to let their Yes mean Yes.

Note: This is a similar view to WT’s ‘theocratic warfare’, i.e. honesty, but with a get out clause.

WHO DOES 1TIM 6:15-16 APPLY TO?

1 Tim 6:15, 16 He is the King of those who rule as kings and Lord of those who rule as lords, ¹⁶ the one alone having immortality.

Jehovah – w1879 October Vol.1 No.4 R44 p.8

God only has that life which never had a beginning and can never end. 1 Tim. 6:16.

Jesus – w1895 October 1 Vol.XVI No.19 R1872 p.226

Then, too, as perfect men they will be the superiors and natural leaders of the world, and, according to promise, Christ will make them chiefs or “princes in all the earth.” (Psa. 45:16.) They will be the seen representatives (Luke 13:28) of God’s Kingdom, while Christ and the Church, the real spiritual rulers, will be unseen.–1 Tim. 6:16; Heb. 1:3; 1 John 3:2.

Jehovah – w1895 October 15 Vol.XVI No.20 R1879 p.239

This quality inheres in Jehovah God alone, as it is written, “The Father hath life in himself” (John 5:26);

i.e., his existence is not a derived one, nor a sustained one. He “only hath immortality” (1 Tim. 6:16)

Jesus – w1900 December 15 Vol.XXI No.24 R2747 p.383 “WHO ONLY HATH IMMORTALITY”–WHO?

Question.–How should we understand 1 Tim. 6:14-16? Is it the Father or the Son who is referred to as the “King of kings and Lord of lords, who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto,” etc.?

Answer.–We understand that the Apostle here refers to our Lord Jesus.

Jehovah – w1906 Vol. XXVII No.11 R3788 p.172

[Jesus is] God manifest in the flesh–the best possible manifestation of the Father amongst men, of that heavenly Father of whom it is declared, “Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen or can see.” (1 Tim. 6:16.)

Jehovah – w1931 3/1 p. 76 para.2

In 1 Timothy 6:16 it is stated that originally God only had immortality.

Both Jehovah and Jesus – hp42 p.44 – (1942 “Hope in a Righteous World”)

The apostle Paul, writing, of course, prior to the return of Christ Jesus and the setting up of the Kingdom, says of God: “Who ONLY HATH IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.” (1 Timothy 6:16) Had Jesus been immortal when he came to earth he could not have died as a ransom for humankind; but now since his resurrection from the dead, at which time God clothed him upon with immortality, the foregoing text (1 Timothy 6: 16) also applies to Christ Jesus as the only immortal creature of God.

Jesus – w1948 10/15 p. 317 the apostle Paul said of Jesus at that time: “The King of kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath

immortality.” (1 Tim. 6: 15, 16)

Jehovah – w64 7/1 p. 406 par. 10 “Fully Accomplish Your Ministry”

You may wonder how frail, mortal creatures could possibly reflect Jehovah’s glory, when no man can see his face and live. (Ex. 33:20; compare also 1 Timothy 6:16)

Jesus – w66 1/15 p. 39 “The Sign of the Son of Man”

Like his Father, Jesus now “dwells in unapproachable light, whom not one of men has seen or can see.”—Acts 1:11; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16.

Both Jehovah and Jesus? – w68 9/1 p. 520 Is Your Soul Immortal?

At 1 Timothy 1:17 and 6:16 God and Christ are spoken of as being immortal, or incorruptible.

Jesus – w69 8/15 p. 484 Christ’s Return—What Does It Mean for You?

As a mighty invisible spirit creature, the resurrected Jesus “dwells in an unapproachable light,” and “not one of men has seen or can see” him.— 1 Tim. 6:16.

Jesus – w08 9/15 p. 31 par. 2 Highlights From the Letters to the Thessalonians and to Timothy

1 Tim 6:15, 16 – Do these words apply to Jehovah God or to Jesus Christ? These words apply to the one whose manifestation they describe, namely, Jesus Christ.

THE REVELATION NAMES “APOLLYON” AND “ABADDON”

Refers to Satan – The Finished Mystery, p.159

Refers to Jesus Christ – Then Is Finished the Mystery of God, p.232

THE “ALPHA AND OMEGA”OF REVELATION 22:12 REFERS TO…

Jesus – Light (1930) p. 268

Jehovah – WT 53 1/1 p. 31

Jesus – WT 55 7/1 p. 387

An angel (speaking for Jehovah) – Awake! 66 6/8 p. 28

Jehovah – WT 67 11/15 p. 680

Jehovah – Awake! 8/22/78 p.28

Jesus – WT 10/1/78 p.15 ( A major change in just 2 months!)

Jehovah – Revelation Grand Climax (1988) p. 316 para. 6

Jehovah – WT 99 12/1 p. 19

Jesus – WT 03 12/15 p. 21

Jehovah – WT 09 1/15 p.30

SEPARATING OF THE SHEEP AND THE GOATS (Matt 25:31-46)

Prior to 1923: Separating the sheep from the goats is a future event taking place after the tribulation.

1923-1995: The separating of the sheep and the goats began in 1914 and is currently taking place.

1995-current: Separating the sheep from the goats is a future event taking place after the tribulation.

A couple of things to note

1. The current (since 1995) view is actually a reversion to OLD LIGHT.
2. The previous (1923-1995) view is now considered OLD LIGHT and DOCTRINAL ERROR, yet was ATTRIBUTED TO GOD:

WT 2/1/1938, p.35. – The Lord revealed to his people the meaning of the parable of the sheep and the goats, showing how the “sheep” only would be spared by Jehovah when his wrath is expressed at Armageddon.

All this information came not from or by man, but by the Lord God…

WT 11/15/1955, p.698. – Stirring up increasing interest in them, Jehovah caused to be preached from 1918 onward the startling public message “Millions Now Living Will Never Die,” and in 1923 he provided the interpretation of “the parable of the sheep and the goats.” (Matt. 25:31-46)

WT, 2/15/1980, p.19. – For the anointed remnant who had begun to enter into the modern antitype of the festival of booths, spiritual illumination from Jehovah’s heavenly temple beamed forth. It was during the gathering in of the spiritual class prefigured by Ruth and Esther that Jesus’ parable of the sheep and the goats, as recorded in Matthew 25:31-46, was given special illumination for the enlightenment of their understanding.

WT 5/15/1986, p.14. – Since they have produced the fruits of God’s Kingdom, Jehovah has blessed them richly by bringing them up to date in “the greatly diversified wisdom of God.”-Ephesians 3:10. Thus, in 1923 Jesus’ great prophecy about the sheep and the goats was properly understood, and it was discerned that the whole world was under judgment. (Matthew 25:31-46)

WHO ARE THE HORSEMEN (CAVALRY) IN REV 9:16?

Protestants – The Finished Mystery 1917, 1926 p. 164

(…) 177,300,000, were Protestants. [Rev.] 9:16. And the number of the army of the horsemen. — In round numbers, at the time of identification. Were two hundred thousand thousand.

Angels and the heavenly class – Light 1930, Vol. 1, p. 165

These armies doubtless include the myriads of angels, as well as a little company of people on earth.

JW Literature w69 9/ 1, 1969 p. 521

Among other things it showed that the 200 million symbolic horses mentioned at Revelation 9:16 refer to the printed literature used in pouring out figurative plagues upon Christendom and the world’s radical elements. This serves to plague them by telling them of the fiery destruction sure to come upon them.

The Anointed and Great Crowd – w89 4/1 p. 19

What do these powerful horses represent? Since they number into the millions, they could not just be the anointed remnant, of whom there are now only about 8,800 on earth. These myriads of horses must include the “great crowd” of Revelation chapter 7, those who have the hope of living forever on earth.

The Faithful and Discreet Slave – w09 1/15 p. 32 par. 4 Highlights From the Book of Revelation

The authoritative Bible-based statements in the publications of “the faithful and discreet slave” contain a stinging message. (Matt. 24:45) This message corresponds to the locusts’ tails that have “stings like scorpions” and the horses of a cavalry, whose “tails are like serpents.”

JESUS IS MEDIATOR FOR WHOM?

Anointed – w38 p.104,105 par.33

The Jonadabs, or “other sheep”, are in a different condition. The Jonadabs have fled to the Lord and there found refuge. They are still human creatures, not even justified.

Anointed – w50 11/1 p. 412 par. 22 New Systems of Things

The new covenant is no part of the old world arrangements but it takes out of this world a people for Jehovah’s name. (Acts 15:14) These are no longer a part of the old world, no more than Jesus their Mediator was ever a part of it.

All men – w57 12/15 p. 747 “Confess Your Sins”

The overseer does not presume to take the role of God, nor to be the mediator between God and men. Rather, as a loving Christian brother, he approaches God in prayer along with the spiritually sick one, doing so through the one Mediator Christ Jesus.

Anointed – w59 12/15 p. 750 par. 4 The Pursuit of Peace

By Jesus Christ as Mediator between God and men he established a new covenant with Christians.

All men – w60 10/15 p. 629 par. 49 Security During “War of the Great Day of God the Almighty” We cannot seek Jehovah except through the kingdom of his Son, the Mediator between God and men.

Anointed – w66 2/15 p. 115 Benefits from God’s New Covenant Spreading Worldwide

On the other hand, the new covenant is made through a mediator, Jesus Christ, with his 144,000 disciples. Hence we must distinguish between the Kingdom covenants that apply to the one person, Jesus Christ, and the new covenant that applies to the nation of spiritual Israel.

All men – w73 2/15 p. 106 par. 6 God Cherishes the Lowly Ones 6 That Jehovah does lovingly enable persons of all backgrounds to come into harmony with him through Christ Jesus is repeatedly shown. For example, 1 Timothy 2:3-6 states: “This is fine and acceptable in the sight of our Savior, God, whose will is that all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, a man, Christ Jesus, who gave himself a corresponding ransom for all”

Anointed – w79 11/15 p. 24 par. 12 Benefiting from “One Mediator Between God and Men” 12 So Jesus Christ in heaven is the Mediator between God and the spiritual Israelites,

All men – w80 6/1 p. 18 par. 11 Praying to Jehovah so as to Be Heard

11 How can we gain access to the great “Hearer of prayer”? He has appointed that this be through Jesus Christ alone. There is only one Mediator between God and men, and one High Priest, Jesus Christ.

Anointed – w83 3/15 p. 8 Who Should Partake?

Moses was the go-between, or mediator, of that covenant made between Jehovah God and the Israelites (just as Jesus is the “mediator of a new covenant”)

Anointed – (1986) Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace”, chap. 1 pp. 10-11 par. 16 Jesus Christ is not the Mediator between Jehovah God and all mankind. He is the Mediator between his heavenly Father Jehovah, and the nation of spiritual Israel, which is limited to only 144,000 members.”

All men – w97 2/15 p. 28 Agreement Between “God’s Temple” and Idols in Greece?

And the apostle Paul stated: “There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, a man, Christ Jesus.” If we truly want our prayers to be heard by God, it is essential that we approach him in the way that his Word directs.

Anointed – w08 12/15 p. 13 Appreciate Jesus’ Unique Role in God’s Purpose

Jesus is the “one mediator between God and men.” He is “the mediator of a new covenant.” (Heb.

9:15; 12:24) However, Moses is also spoken of as a mediator—the mediator of the Law covenant. ¹⁴ What about those who are not in the new covenant, those who hope to live forever on earth, not in heaven? While not participants in the new covenant, these are beneficiaries of it.

All men – w14 Jan p,16 para. 16

By the end of Christ’s Thousand Year Reign, the Messianic Kingdom will have achieved its purpose. Then Jesus will hand the Kingdom over to his Father. There will no longer be a need for an intermediary between Jehovah and his earthly children. All of God’s sons in heaven and his children on earth will be united with their heavenly Father as part of his universal family.

Rewriting History – Proclaimers jv (1993) chap. 28 p. 630 Testing and Sifting From Within

Falsely, however, some who professed to be Christian brothers charged that The Watch Tower had denied that Jesus is the Mediator between God and men… None of this was true. Note: WT today state that Jesus is not the mediator between God and men!

GENERATION

wt 1984 5/15. A ‘generation’ that has now all passed away:

What is the Watchtower’s definition of a Generation:

Food For Thinking Christians (1881) p.99 “Again we will be liberal and estimate three generations to a century, or thirty three years to a generation…”

• Studies in the Scriptures IV (1886) p. 604

“generation” might be reckoned as equivalent to a century (practically the present limit) or one hundred and twenty years, Moses’ lifetime and the Scripture limit. (Gen. 6:3)

Studies in the Scriptures IV (1886) p. 605 (the very next page!)

…it would not be inconsistent to reckon the “generation” from 1878 to 1914 –36 1/2 years– about the average of human life today.

• w51 7/1 p. 404 – “The length of time is indicated by him when he said, “Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.” (Matt. 24:34) The actual meaning of these words is, beyond question, that which takes a “generation” in the ordinary sense, as at Mark 8:12 and Acts 13:36, or for those who are living at the given period.”

• Awake! 1962 Sept 22 p.27 – “The word “generation” at Matthew 24:34 is to be viewed in an ordinary sense, as at Acts 13:36 and Mark 8:12. Acts 13:36 speaks of David’s very own generation, a literal generation. The generation of persons living in Jesus’ time, person who sought a sign, according to Mark 8:12, was a literal generation. That a symbolic application to a “generation” of wicked persons is not meant at Matthew 24:34 is apparent when we read the preceding verse: “Likewise also you, when you see all these things, know that he is near at the doors.” Since Jesus was foretelling conditions prevailing now at the world’s time of the end, the generation now living is the one to which he pointed forward in his prophecy of the last days.”

• w75 5/1 p. 277 par. 22 Why We Have Not Been Told “That Day and Hour”

Which “generation” is that? The one that has witnessed the events in fulfillment of prophecy since 1914 C.E. There is no doubt about the truthfulness of what Jesus said. Forcefully he added: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.”

w77 2/15 p. 104 Justice for All—How? When?

the details of Jesus’ prophecy combine with the facts of history in our time to prove that ours is

the generation that will see that changeover to rulership from heaven

• Watchtower 1988 Oct 15 p.4 – “Might it be, though, that the sign could occur over the span of many human generations? No. The sign is to occur during one particular generation. The same generation that witnessed the beginning of the sign will also witness its climax in “a tribulation such as has not occurred from the beginning of the creation.” Matthew, Mark, and Luke, recorded Jesus assurance of this..”

What is the Bible’s definition of a Generation:

w50 6/1 p. 176 Letter

70 (10 X 7) generations being listed in Genesis, chapter 10, as springing from Noah and his sons. 37 Years: (Genesis 50:22, 23) And Joseph continued to dwell in Egypt, he and the household of his father, and Joseph lived for 110 years. Joseph saw the third generation of Eʹphra·im’s sons. 40 years: (Numbers 32:11-13) Jehovah’s anger blazed against Israel and he made them wander in the wilderness for 40 years, until all the generation that was doing evil in the eyes of Jehovah came to its end. 38 years: Deut 2:14 – And the days that we walked from Ka’desh-bar’ne·a until we crossed the torrent valley of Ze’red were thirty-eight years, until all the generation of the men of war had come to their end. 35 years: (Job 42:16, 17) “And Job continued living after this a hundred and forty years and came to see his sons and his grandsons—four generations. (140 / 4)

37 years: Jerusalem was destroyed about 37 years later when Jesus said “this generation will by no means pass away”

(Mt 1:17) “All the generations, then, from Abraham until David were fourteen generations, and from

David until the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon until the Christ fourteen generations”. Reading the list in Matthew, none of them are described as overlapping:

65 years – Abraham to David : 2018BCE -> 1107BCE / 14 generations = 65 years

35 years – David to deportation : 1107BCE -> 607BCE / 14 generations = 35 years 45 years – Deportation to Christ : 607BCE -> 29CE / 14 generations = 45 years

WHO SAW THE START OF ‘THIS GENERATION’?

1886 Studies in the Scripture Vol 4 The Battle Of Armageddon

(D604) A “generation” might be reckoned as equivalent to a century (practically the present limit) or one hundred and twenty years, Moses’ lifetime and the Scripture limit. (Gen. 6:3) Reckoning a hundred years from 1780, the date of the first sign, the limit would reach to 1880

(D605) it would not be inconsistent to reckon the “generation” from 1878 to 1914–36 1/2 years– about the average of human life today.

w1896 May 15, Vol XVII No.10 R1983 p. 116

The remarkable darkening of the sun and moon, May 19th, 1780; and the notable falling of stars or meteoric shower on the morning of Nov. 13th, 1833. While we believe also in a symbolic fulfilment of the darkening of the sun and falling of the stars, yet we cannot overlook the literal fulfilment, and hence expect, in harmony with Verses 32,33, that some of the generation which saw the falling stars [in 1833] will continue to live until God’s Kingdom shall be fully established.

w51 3/15 p. 164 Time Better than Money

“This time period [since 1914], known as the last days of Satan’s delinquent old world, will not stretch beyond this present generation. The precious time grows short.”

WT September 1 1952, page 543

“Some persons living in A.D. 1914 when the series of foretold events began will also be living when the series ends with Armageddon. “All the events will come within the span of a generation.”

From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, page 205 (1958)

“Many are the people alive since 1914 who will still be living when it is time for Armageddon to begin.”

WT 54 10/15 p. 612 A Message of Encouragement and Value

“Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.” What a consoling fact that is! All these things would happen in one generation! The sudden worsening of world conditions since World War I, which broke out forty years ago, was here foretold to end within one generation, within the lifetime of people who are now at least 40 years old!

Awake! October 8 1968, page 13

“Jesus was obviously speaking about those who were old enough to witness with understanding what took place when the last days began. Even if we presume that youngsters 15 years of age would be perceptive enough to realize the import of what happened in 1914.”

Yearbook 1969

What did Jesus mean when he spoke of a ‘generation that would not pass away’? The Greek word rendered “generation” in the Bible has been defined as, “Those born at the same time.” This definition embraces both those born around the time of a historic event and all those alive at that time. If Jesus used “generation” in that sense and we apply it to 1969, then the babies of that generation are now 45 years old or older. And others alive in 1969 are in their 50’s or 60’s. There are still many millions of that generation alive. Some of them “will by no means pass away until all things occur.” Awake! 71 10/8 p. 16 The Greatest Pressure of All Time Begins

How long a period of time is covered by the “last days”? Jesus limited it at most to ‘one generation‘ from beginning to end. (Matt. 24:34) This means that some persons who saw the beginning of the “last days” in 1914 would live to see the end.

WT October 1 1978, page 31

“Thus, when it comes to the application in our time, the ‘generation’ logically would not apply to babies born during World War I.”

WT October 15 1980, page 31

It is the generation of people who saw the catastrophic events that broke forth in connection with WWI from 1914 onward … If you assume that 10 is the age at which an event creates a lasting impression…

WT May 15 1984, pages 5 – 7

“If Jesus used “generation” in that sense and we apply it to 1914, then the babies of that generation are now 70 years old or older. Some of them will “by no means pass away until all things occur”.”

Jehovah’s prophetic word through Christ Jesus is: “This generation [of 1914] will by no means pass away until all things occur.”

Just as Jesus’ prophecies regarding Jerusalem were fulfilled within the life span of the generation of the year 33 C.E., so his prophecies regarding “the time of the end” will be fulfilled within the life span of the generation of 1914.

Yes, you may live to see this promised New Order, along with survivors of the generation of 1914— the generation that will not pass away.

Awake! April 8 1988, page 14

“Most of the generation of 1914 has passed away. However, there are still millions on earth who were born in that year or prior to it. … Jesus’ words will come true, “this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened”.”

WT October 15, 1988 page 4 “The Sign — Are You Heeding It?”

“Might it be, though, that the sign could occur over the span of many human generations? No. The sign is to occur during one particular generation. The same generation that witnessed the beginning of the sign will also witness its climax”

WT April 15, 2010, “Holy Spirit’s Role in the Outworking of Jehovah’s Purpose”. para 13 – 14:

“How, then, are we to understand Jesus’ words about “this generation”? He evidently meant that the lives of the anointed who were on hand when the sign began to become evident in 1914 would overlap with the lives of other anointed ones who would see the start of the great tribulation.”

The bible shows that generations did not ‘overlap’ (Mat 1:1-17)

1. Abraham 1. David 1. Jec·o·niʹah
2. Isaac 2. Solʹo·mon 2. She·alʹti·el
3. Jacob 3. Re·ho·boʹam 3. Ze·rubʹba·bel
4. Judah 4. A·biʹjah 4. A·biʹud
5. Peʹrez 5. Aʹsa 5. E·liʹa·kim
6. Hezʹron 6. Je·hoshʹa·phat 6. Aʹzor
7. Ram 7. Je·hoʹram 7. Zaʹdok
8. Am·minʹa·dab 8. Uz·ziʹah 8. Aʹchim
9. Nahʹshon 9. Joʹtham 9. E·liʹud
10. Salʹmon 10. Aʹhaz 10. El·e·aʹzar
11. Boʹaz 11. Hez·e·kiʹah 11. Matʹthan
12. Oʹbed 12. Ma·nasʹseh 12. Jacob
13. Jesʹse 13. Aʹmon 13. Joseph
14. David 14. Jo·siʹah 14. Jesus

Mat 1:17 “All the generations, then, from Abraham until David were 14 generations; from David until the deportation to Babylon, 14 generations; from the deportation to Babylon until the Christ, 14 generations.”

WT Jan 15, 2014 p.31 para.15-16 “Let Your Kingdom Come”, But When?

We understand that in mentioning “this generation,” Jesus was referring to two groups of anointed Christians. The first group was on hand in 1914. Those who made up this group were not merely alive in 1914, but they were spirit-anointed as sons of God in or before that year. The second group included in “this generation” are anointed contemporaries of the first group. They were not simply alive during the lifetime of those in the first group, but they were anointed with holy spirit during the time that those of the first group were still on earth. Thus, not every anointed person today is included in “this generation” of whom Jesus spoke. Today, those in this second group are themselves advancing in years… at least some of “this generation will by no means pass away” before seeing the start of the great tribulation.

Note: This 2015 definition of ‘generation’ accommodates a time span approximately 200 years long, from the 1830’s to the 2030’s. Is 200 years a reasonable definition of a generation to anybody?

Is this really what Jesus had in mind when he simply said “This generation will by no means pass away”?

Diagram of the WT’s Overlapping Generations teaching since Jan 2015.

WHEN DID THE LAST DAYS BEGIN?

The very first edition of the WT in July 1879 has this to say about the Last Days.

“That we are living “in the last days”–“The day of the Lord”– “the end” of the Gospel age, and consequently, in the dawn of the “new” age, are facts not only discernable by the close student of the Word, led by the spirit, but the outward signs recognizable by the world hear the same testimony.”

1799 – w1890 November Vol . XI R1258 p.8

It [the Bible] pointed out, that far in advance, that with the year A.D. 1799 “The Time of the End” would begin, and that the present “Time of the End” would be the “Day of God’s Preparation” (Nahum 2:3) for the incoming Millennium of blessing.

1914 – w51 3/15 p. 164 Time Better than Money

When Christ was enthroned, in 1914, great tribulation was started against Satan and his wicked world organization. … This time period, known as the last days of Satan’s delinquent old world, will not stretch beyond this present generation. The precious time grows short.

33 CE – w55 5/15 pp. 311-312 par. 13 Christian Channel of Communication

On Pentecost day A.D. 33 the first 120 members of Christ’s congregation became anointed with the holy spirit… That same day Peter in a public speech identified this event as fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy distinctly marking this group as an organization empowered to prophesy. “… this is what was said through the prophet Joel, ‘”And in the last days,” God says, “I shall pour some of my spirit out upon every kind of flesh, ….”‘” What a spirit-vitalized channel was started A.D. 33 to represent Jehovah on earth!

1914 – w58 4/15 p. 254 Questions From Readers

The year 1914, in fact, marked the beginning of the “last days.”

33CE – w66 6/15 p. 358 par. 5 Manifesting the Spirit of God

If you had attended the important meeting held Sivan 6, 33 C.E., in Jerusalem, the day of Pentecost— you would have heard a rushing like the wind and seen fire settle on those in attendance. … Do you agree with Peter, who spoke on that great occasion, and one of the first points he made? It was: “…this is what was said through the prophet Joel, ‘”And in the last days,” God says, “I shall pour out some of my spirit upon every sort of flesh …”‘”

1914 – g71 10/8 p. 16 The Greatest Pressure of All Time Begins

How long a period of time is covered by the “last days”? Jesus limited it at most to ‘one generation’ from beginning to end. (Matt. 24:34) This means that some persons who saw the beginning of the “last days” in 1914 would live to see the end.

1914 – w08 2/15 pp. 21-22 par. 3 Christ’s Presence—What Does It Mean to You?

What of the “presence” that the apostles asked about? This is the translation of the Greek word pa·rou·siʹa. Christ’s pa·rou·siʹa, or presence, started with Jesus’ installation as King in heaven in 1914 and continues on to include the “great tribulation,” during which he comes to destroy the wicked. (Matt. 24:21) Many different things, including “the last days” of this wicked system of things, the gathering of the chosen ones, and their resurrection to heavenly life, occur during this presence of Jesus.

VOTING

WT 50 Nov 15, p.445 – 446 : Conscience matter

WT 73 Oct 15 p.627 : Not allowed to vote

1981 “Pay Attention” p.149 : Voting can result in disfellowshipping

WT 99 Nov 1 p.28-29 : Conscience matter

“some Witnesses of Jehovah go to the polling booth and others do not… in matters of individual conscience such as this, each Christian has to make his own decision before Jehovah God.“ 2008 Keep Yourselves in Gods’ Love p.214 : Not allowed to vote

*** w02 1/1 p. 28 Jehovah Has Provided “Power Beyond What Is Normal” *** [Albania 1986 when voting was not permitted].

They mentioned the case of a dear brother who was determined to remain politically neutral in an upcoming vote. Since the State controlled everything, this meant that his family would not receive any food rations. His married children and their families would all be sent to prison, although they had nothing to do with his religious beliefs. It was reported that members of this brother’s family, because of fear, killed him the night before the vote, dumped his body in a well, and later claimed that he got scared and killed himself.

*** w01 3/15 pp. 8-9 Courageous Integrity Keepers Triumph Over Nazi Persecution *** [Germany 1936 when voting was not permitted].

The book Betrayal—German Churches and the Holocaust, edited by professor of history Robert P. Ericksen and professor of Jewish studies Susannah Heschel, explained that the. . . . Witnesses believed in political neutrality, which meant they would not vote for Hitler nor give the Hitler salute.” This, adds the same source, provoked the anger of the Nazis and put the Witnesses in harm’s way because “National Socialism would not tolerate such a refusal.”

Note: Most JW’s don’t realise that there’s actually nothing wrong in voting – congregations often ask for a show of hands to vote for or against a resolution. The problem is voting for a political issue. So when the kneejerk response is “we don’t vote”, this is not correct.

WHO IS TO BLAME FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE?

The Abused – w63 9/15 p. 571 When Marriage Ties Are at the Breaking Point

The Christian may find that there are things she can do to avoid outbursts of anger on the part of her mate, thus making the situation endurable.

The Abuser – w10 6/15 p. 30 Coping With a Spouse’s Betrayal

If a marriage mate establishes a record of abusive speech or actions, it is the guilty party who must answer to Jehovah. Jehovah condemns violence and abusive speech, so there is never any legitimate reason for treating a mate with such a gross lack of love and respect

The Abused – w12 2/15 p. 29 par. 12 Happiness Is Possible in a Divided Household

The night before, Steve had hit me as I had tried to prove a point, and I was feeling sad and sorry for myself… Realizing that I needed to adjust my thinking, I prayed to Jehovah to help me be more loving toward Steve

The Abuser – Awake! 4/13 p. 9

They erroneously believe that they [the abused] are to blame.

WHO ORIGINATED THE IDEA OF AN IMMORTAL SOUL?

SATAN – “Let God Be True” 1952 pp. 74-75

… at Genesis 3:4: “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die.” Thus it is seen that the serpent (the Devil) is the one that originated the doctrine of the inherent immortality of human souls.

NOT SATAN – w57 9/15 p. 575

Satan, as the father of the lie (…) However, it does not seem that we can construe his remarks to Eve as teaching the immortality of a soul separate and distinct from the body, but rather that he led her to believe that even in the flesh she would not die at all.

SATAN – w90 11/15 p. 28

The Bible also exposes the chief instigator of the immortal soul and reincarnation doctrines; he is Satan the Devil, “the father of the lie.”—John 8:44; compare Genesis 3:4.

ADAM HAD A BEARD?

NO – (1943) The Truth Shall Make You Free

YES – (1988) Insight vol. 1 p.266-267 “Beard”

Consequently, there is good reason to believe that Noah, Enoch, Seth, and Adam likewise were bearded men.

JESUS HAS A BEARD?

YES – (1914) Photodrama of Creation (pictures) p.57, 58, 61, 88:

NO – w54 8/15 p. 511 Questions From Readers

Watch Tower publications show Jesus as beardless and with short hair because he is shown that way in representations of him that are older than the traditional effeminate-looking picture… The photograph of this church window… shows a cross with a young man nailed to it, beardless and with short hair, to represent “Christ crucified, but triumphant.”… Since the Bible does not describe Jesus’ facial appearance or indicate he had a beard of length, we follow the oldest archaeological evidence rather than the later traditional view.

YES – w68 5/1 p. 286 Questions From Readers

Biblical evidence is the most reliable testimony to be found on this question, and a recent careful review of what it says indicates that Jesus did indeed have a beard.

NO – (1986) Worldwide Security under the Prince of Peace (picture) p.164:

YES -(2012) Good News From God (brochure picture) p.9:

Note: So finally in 2012 the Governing Body came to believe (and therefore allowed every other JW to believe) what everyone else in the world had known all along!

CAN A WOMAN WEAR TROUSERS TO THE MEETING OR ON FIELD SERVICE?

NO, BUT ON A FARM IS OK – w51 10/1 p. 607 Questions From Readers

This text [Deut 22:5] certainly was not recorded with the thought in mind of preventing modern women from wearing slacks… So the wearing of slacks or even work pants, such as around a farm, is not forbidden by this text and is an individual matter.

NO, BUT ON A FARM IS OK – w72 11/1 p. 672 Questions From Readers the principle taught at Deuteronomy 22:5 would not rule out a woman’s wearing slacks or pants.

Moreover, Christians are not under the Mosaic law. (Rom. 6:14) Insistence on applying the letter of this law would therefore be contrary to Christian teaching. So if a woman were to put on a worn-out pair of her husband’s trousers to do a job around the house or on the farm, she would not be going against the evident purpose of the law, namely, to prevent confusion of sexual identity and sexual abuses.

The fact that Christians are not under the Mosaic law but are guided by its principles calls for them to use discernment, good judgment and to exercise their conscience. A Christian woman appreciates that whether it would be proper for her to wear slacks or pants depends upon factors other than her personal likes. She would not want to be the cause for stumbling others or bring reproach on the Christian congregation. Clothing that may not be looked on with disfavor if worn in the privacy of one’s home or at work may be objectionable if worn at Christian meetings and when publicly proclaiming God’s Word or carrying on other public activity. Attitudes, too, may differ from area to area.

YES, IF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WEAR THEM – w75 8/15 p. 500 par. 8 8 If slacks or pantsuits for women are frowned upon by many in the community, likely some different style of apparel for public dress would be advisable for a Christian sister… But in frigid climates, where everyone in the community wears clothing appropriate to the weather, such as slacks, surely it is proper for Christian women to do the same. In some places, pioneers have been aided thus to maintain robust health for putting in long hours in service… The elders should not seek to impose their own preferences on others, but likely are in position to offer advice on what might be acceptable in their respective communities.

Q8. How can a sister tell if it would be appropriate to wear pantsuits or slacks in her community?

NO, BUT OK FOR SHOPPING – g76 8/8 p. 26 Dressing in a Modest and Attractive Way

For many women the pantsuit is quite practical and comfortable when shopping or for informal wear.

But in some areas people would view it as unacceptable when, for example, attending religious meetings. A Christian woman is, therefore, wise to take into consideration the attitudes existing in the community where she lives.

YES? – w78 8/1 p. 29 Insight on the News

Pan American World Airways recently introduced a new travel dress code for employees and guests traveling on the airline free or at reduced rates… Women are to wear either a dress, a suit, a skirt, a pantsuit or slacks “with well-coordinated dress, blouse or sweater.”…

The airline clearly feels that dress and grooming that are appropriate to the occasion do make a difference. Although the Bible does not itemize articles of clothing that are to be worn by Christian men, women and children under varying circumstances, godly persons know that their attire does matter. Christian women are urged to “adorn themselves in well-arranged dress, with modesty and soundness of mind.”

NO, BUT ON A FARM IS OK – w84 7/15 p. 25 Deuteronomy Exhorts Us to Serve Jehovah With Heartfelt Joy

The principle in this text would not rule out a Christian woman’s wearing slacks sometimes, as when working around the house or on a farm. And according to local custom and necessity, slacks may be the desired attire in very cold climates.

NO – g84 11/22 p. 22 Fig Leaves, Fashions and Figures—From a Woman’s Wardrobe

For instance, regarding Western countries, notice the hefty list of don’ts from magazines and books on proper dress for a job interview: Don’t wear slacks or too much makeup… And if such suggestions are useful to the businesswoman, they could also benefit a Christian woman in her preaching activities.

YES, BUT NOT AT MEETINGS – g85 3/22 p. 28 From Our Readers (references g84 11/22)

There can be circumstances, such as those mentioned [g84 11/22 above], where slacks might well be the more appropriate and modest type of dress. If so, the fashion tip would be to select a style of pantsuit that is attractive, fits properly, and meets the requirement of ‘well-arranged dress with soundness of mind.’ (1 Timothy 2:9) Then wear such with the dignity suitable for the occasion.—ED.

YES, IF YOU ARE UNDER BAN – yb2001 pp. 172-173 Argentina

From the very week the ban was imposed, Jehovah’s Witnesses in Argentina did ‘not forsake the gathering of themselves together’… The publishers dressed informally at the meetings. The sisters sometimes had rollers in their hair, wore slacks, and carried a shopping bag.

DISPOSING OF BODIES AFTER ARMAGEDDON

*** kj 377 20 Land of Magog No More to Threaten Mankind ***

The unburied dead, those slain by Jehovah, will be so enormously many that even the carrion birds and scavenging wild beasts could never take care of their consumption. The burial of even what remains after these lower creatures have their fill would be stupendous. Doubtless Almighty God will use some highly scientific means, whether including antimatter or not, to dispose of the surplus of decaying bodies in a speedy and sanitary way. This remains for the survivors of the war of the great day to see and witness.

*** yw 322 12 The “Prince” of the Sanctuary Stands Up ***

In this prophecy God warns that he will also use other natural forces that are at his disposal, possibly a rain of antimatter that has the property of annihilating any material thing that it meets.

*** w56 7/15 p. 424 The Three Worlds ***

After Armageddon the survivors will go forth and look upon the dead bodies of those Jehovah has slain. Over two billion dead! The carcasses of those who refused to love the new world that God loved so much that he gave his only begotten Son! The carcasses of those who loved this present evil world, which we are commanded not to love. Their dead bodies will be unburied, food for worms, birds and beasts.

*** w56 8/1 p. 465 par. 17 Jehovah’s Message Against Gog of Magog ***

With such a glorious feast of victory concluded, only the bones, from one end of the earth to the other, will be left for burial. What a task that will be for the survivors, to cleanse the earth of every remaining evidence of Gog’s forces! Even with the work well organized it will take seven months, Jehovah says, just to bury the bones. Scouting corps will be sent out on a full-time basis to search the land thoroughly and, when bones are found, markers will be set up for those with the spades and shovels who follow.

*** w60 4/1 p. 219 par. 25 Part 35—”Your Will Be Done on Earth” ***

Certainly the Creator of cosmic rays, Jehovah God, could use these to affect the minds of his enemies, including the king of the north and the king of the south, and could drive them to mutual slaughter

*** w65 3/1 p. 150 par. 29 Part Two ***

And all the birds were filled from the fleshy parts of them [because the bodies of these dead ones were left unburied on the battlefield at Armageddon].”

THE NUCLEAR THREAT IS LINKED TO THE ‘SIGN’

w88 10/1 p. 4 The Sign—Have You Seen It? just one ballistic missile submarine could cause a nuclear winter that would imperil all life on earth! Many have linked such frightening prospects to Jesus’ prophetic sign. Could it be that our generation is experiencing the fulfillment of that sign? The facts answer yes.

re (1988 – removed from later version) chap. 18 p. 106 par. 7 Earthquakes in the Lord’s Day

7 World War II brought another wave of upheavals. And smaller wars along with the threat of nuclear holocaust continue to shake the earth. The fearful threat of terrorists or states using weapons of mass destruction has many people wondering.

w12 3/15 p. 18 par. 16 Maintain Your Sense of Urgency

Some people might think that the threat of nuclear war could lead to events that fulfill “the sign.” However, most do not understand the sign’s real significance.

And what about predictions for the end of this system?

w13 1/1 p. 8 Box – HAVE JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES GIVEN INCORRECT DATES FOR THE END?

“Jehovah’s Witnesses have had wrong expectations about when the end would come. Like Jesus’ firstcentury disciples, we have sometimes looked forward to fulfilment of prophecy ahead of God’s timetable.”

Note: WHO have had wrong expectations? The GB? The F&DS? No, it’s ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’.

IS THE EARTH STILL CURSED (GEN 3:17)

YES – 1926 March 24 Golden Age p. 404 Para 9

NO – 1950 This Means Everlasting Life p.280

IS GOD A DICTATOR?

YES – w1932 August 15 p. 243).

Jehovah is supreme, the Most High, and absolute Dictator over his organization

NO – w64 5/15 p. 302 par. 17 The Unity of God’s Family

God’s kingdom, however, is not a dictatorship and the New World Society of Jehovah’s witnesses is none either. The dictator rules by compulsion; Jehovah God appeals to the free and good will of honest persons.

HEARING “VOICES” IS A SIGN OF DEMON ATTACK?

YES – w63 3/15 p. 187 Resisting Wicked Spirit Forces

One of the most common ways demons both ensnare and harass persons is by “voices.” The invisible voices pretend to be departed relatives or good spirits, spirits sent from God. But this is falsehood, deception! No matter what the “voices” claim to be, they are wicked spirits

YES – w75 1/15 p. 52 par. 14 Safeguarded by Faith and Hope

He may begin to hear strange voices, suggesting that he kill himself or someone else. This is no mere supposition. Case histories prove that this has actually happened.

YES – w80 8/1 p. 6 “Glad Tidings” Bring Joy to Central Africa

These persons have learned that the visions, voices and apparitions are the work of fallen angels, demons.

YES – g84 2/8 pp. 24-25 Tongues, Trances and Voices—Should You Beware?

And since the completion of the Bible around the year 98 C.E., holy angels have not been used to communicate with God’s people. Spirit voices heard since then are therefore demonic.

NO – g86 9/8 p. 10 Mental Illness—Is There a Cure?

While it is possible that in some cases demonic forces are involved, the Bible does not teach that all illnesses are caused by the demons. More often than not, when a person hears voices or manifests bizarre behavior, an illness such as schizophrenia may be involved.

NO – w88 10/15 pp. 27-28 Mental Distress—When It Afflicts a Christian

Some victims of mental difficulties fear they are under demonic attack, claiming at times to hear

“voices.” True, the demons have been known to make sane individuals behave irrationally. (Mark 5:26, 15) There is no proof that the demons are involved in most cases of bizarre behavior, any more than that they are involved in all cases of speechlessness, blindness, and epilepsy… Obviously, then, the vast majority of cases of blindness or epilepsy today are caused by physical—not demonic—factors. The same no doubt can be said of most cases of mental distress.

YES – rs (1989) p. 362 par. 1 Satan the Devil

In many instances, however, persons who formerly dabbled in the occult or who belonged to groups practicing spiritism report that they were at that time greatly distressed because of hearing “voices” from unseen sources, being “possessed” by superhuman beings, etc. Genuine relief was gained when they learned what the Bible says about Satan and his demons,

MIGHT BE – g91 4/8 p. 19 Narcolepsy—The Sleeping Illness

She began hearing voices and having terrifying hallucinations… Ebba began to wonder if she was mentally ill or under demon attack.

NO – w03 5/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

If a Christian hears voices, does that necessarily mean that he is under demon attack?

No. While demons have been reported to manifest themselves in that way, many individuals who hear voices or experience other inexplicable, disturbing sensations have learned upon investigation that they have a medical problem.

IS BRITAIN THE KING OF THE NORTH OR KING OF THE SOUTH?

NORTH – 1925 Our Lords Return p. 23

“The “king of the north” means Great Britain”

SOUTH – w60 2/15 p. 122 par. 50 Part 32—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

“the king of the south, the Anglo-American dual world power”

HOW TO REMOVE A TATTOO

USE SALT – g72 2/8 p. 29 Watching the World

A simple method for removing an unwanted tattoo has been developed by Dr. F. W. Crittenden, Jr., a U.S. Navy dermatologist. He rubs the tattoo with salt.

DON’T USE SALT – g89 10/8 p. 29 Watching the World

In an attempt to remove an embarrassing tattoo, some have tried sandpapering, freezing, burning, and even rubbing salt into the tattoo to wear the skin away.

Note: Do you wonder why some might have even tried rubbing salt into the tattoo?

THE CORRECT VIEW OF ZOO’S

BAD – Nov 15,1949 Watchtower page 349 “PROPER RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEN AND BEAST”

“Men have wrongfully gone into the wilds and trapped the wild beasts and removed them from their natural homes, and placed them in prisons, such as zoos, and thus inflicted upon them cruel punishment. God never imprisoned wild beasts in zoos, but mercifully protected them through the Flood, and after the Flood by including them in his ever- lasting covenant. He provided the forests as the home of the wild beasts, and men have no excuse or justification to remove the beasts from their homes or to invade their homes to wantonly slay them.”

GOOD – September 2012 Awake page16 “A CLOSER LOOK AT TODAY’S ZOOS”

“Some animal-rights activists question whether species should be taken from the wild and confined in unnatural environments. Activists argue that zoos restrict the animals’ movements and disrupt their instinctive behavior.

Since most children have a natural fascination with animals, a weekend or vacation visit to a zoo by the whole family offers parents the opportunity to teach their children about God’s creation. They can together gaze at the face of nature. A visit to the zoo can also enhance our respect for and awareness of the wonderful creatures that inhabit our fragile planet.”

SHOULD MARRIED PERSONS SPEND TIME WORKING APART?

NOT IF IT’S FOR YOUR OWN BENEFIT – w14 4/15 p. 17-20

Marylin dreaded leaving her precious family and their stable spiritual routine. Elders and some others in the congregation advised her not to move away… As soon as Marilyn left, she began to su er the gnawing pain of separation from her family. So did her husband and son.

With no mate nearby to lean on when facing problems, both Marilyn and James became emotionally involved with others and nearly gave in to sexual immorality. Marilyn came to see that even though she and her husband did not commit adultery, while living apart they could not follow the Bible’s direction to fill each other’s emotional and sexual needs. They could not share a spontaneous thought, glance, or smile, the gentle touch of a hand, a warm embrace, intimate “expressions of affection,” or the marital “due.” (Song of Sol. 1:2; 1 Cor. 7:3, 5) And they could not fully worship Jehovah together…

“When I learned at a convention that regular family worship is vital for us to survive Jehovah’s great day, I understood that I needed to go home,”

[footnote]*Reports from various countries indicate that living apart from a mate or children in order to work abroad is a factor that for some has contributed to serious problems. These include infidelity on the part of one or both mates, homosexuality, or incest…

YES, IF IT’S FOR THE WT SOCIETIES BENEFIT – w14 5/15 p. 18-20

While we were serving in district work in late 1960 [3 years after getting married], I received an invitation to attend the 36th class of Gilead School, a ten-month course to commence early in February 1961 in Brooklyn, New York. Of course, I was thrilled, but my delight was tempered by the fact that Evelyn was not included in the invitation. Instead, like other wives in a similar position, Evelyn was asked to write a letter stating that she was willing for us to be separated for at least ten months. Evelyn shed tears, but we agreed that I should attend the school.

Evelyn and I missed each other very much. Her willingness to sacrifice our time together so that we could be more useful to Jehovah and his organization touched me deeply.

Then, to my surprise, I received an invitation to attend the 40th class of Gilead, which would start in 1965. Once again, Evelyn had to write a letter agreeing to our separation.

Note: These two articles were printed just one month apart!

JESUS KNOWS WHEN ARMAGEDDON WILL BEGIN?

NO – Matthew 24:36 “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.”

YES – w51 11/15 p. 681 par. 22 Baptism for Salvation and Fire Baptism

When on earth Jesus, like Noah, confessed that he did not know the day or the hour when that which corresponds with the flood would break out, but now in his heavenly contact with God he knows.

NO – w59 12/15 p. 740 God Will Do It His Way

Concerning this time the Lord Jesus said: “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.”—Matt. 24:36.

YES – w2016 July p.14 Par.4

But Christ has been empowered in heaven to wage war against Satan’s world. (Rev. 19:11-16) Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that Jesus now knows when Armageddon will occur.

MUST YOU MARRY “ONLY IN THE LORD”? (1COR 7:39)

YOU SHOULDN’T EVEN GET MARRIED! – w1887 Feb. Vol VIII R901 pg.3

The time is short; so that they [of us] who have wives should be as if they had none. The establishing of an earthly home and the rearing of an earthly family, which is generally regarded as the principal business of life, should not be the ambition of the saints…

With his clear insight into the plan of God…, Paul’s counsel that the unmarried should remain so… , was timely and important, and in perfect harmony with The Lord’s example and teaching.

DON’T GET MARRIED – 1938 Face The Facts p.50 (Facts are never open to successful contradiction – p.1)

Those Jonadabs who now contemplate marriage, it would seem, would do better if they wait a few years, until the fiery storm of Armageddon is gone, and to then enter the marital relationship and enjoy the blessings ofparticipating in filling the earth with righteous and perfect children.

YES – w51 6/15 p. 371 par. 3 Free Moral Agency and the Word Each Christian is free to marry, but “only in the Lord”.

NO – w52 7/1 p. 414 Questions From Readers

If one in the truth wishes to marry someone who is not, it is his responsibility and his decision to make… it is his personal choice and others need not interfere.

YES – w56 12/15 p. 760 Guard Your Associations!

For our spiritual welfare Jehovah explicitly commands us to marry “only in the Lord,” not to “become unevenly yoked with unbelievers.”… Loyalty to our God and his organization will cause us to respect these commands.

NO – w74 5/1 p. 276 What Kind of a Wedding?

If someone does not follow that Bible advice [to marry only in the Lord], he or she faces the likelihood of many problems and much grief, as the experiences of others have proved. But would such a marriage be permitted at the Kingdom Hall? The committee of overseers are the ones to decide on that.

YES – w76 5/15 p. 315 Christians at Corinth Get ‘Matters Set Straight’ Those marrying should only marry fellow believers.

YES (but you won’t get DF’d if you don’t) – g79 3/22 p. 28 Marry “Only in the Lord”—How Important?

A Christian’s marrying an unbeliever is not given as a basis for being disfellowshiped, any more than an ancient Israelite was cut off for that. But, as we have clearly seen, that course was definitely wrong in Israel. Hence, Paul’s words to marry “only in the Lord” cannot be dismissed as mere human opinion.

YES (but brothers will lose their privileges) – Shepherd the Flock of God (2010) p.38 par.18

Questions about a brother’s qualifications would result if he gave tacit approval to a marriage between a baptized Christian and a person who is not baptized. Participating in, supporting, or assisting in the courtship, wedding, or reception implies approval. Questions would also arise if the brother did not get involved personally but allowed his wife or others in his household to do so. If an elder or a ministerial servant displays poor judgment in these areas to a degree that it raises serious questions in the minds of others, he may be Scripturally disqualified from serving

“WE WENT WELL BEYOND THE SCRIPTURES!” – May 2016 Broadcast – Antony Morris III

07:25 – “In the early 1900’s the focus was on preaching the good news, little attention was given to building strong Christian marriages and families. For a time marriage was even discouraged – well beyond the intent of the scriptures.“

MARRIAGE IS DISCOURAGED – w2016/4 p.9 Par.17 (Studied 2016/06, one month after the broadcast!) 17. (b) How do the words at Hebrews 6:10-12 encourage you to be self sacrificing?

Thousands of young Christian men and women are willingly sacrificing marriage or are not having children—at least for now—in order to serve Jehovah to the full. … Would it be possible for you to make additional sacrifices to serve Jehovah more fully?

1 Tim 4:1-3: “The inspired word clearly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired statements and teachings of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of men who speak lies, whose conscience is seared as with a branding iron. They forbid marriage…”

DOES JEHOVAH HELP YOU FIND A MARRIAGE MATE?

YES – w71 6/15 p. 378 “God Will Fully Supply All Your Need”

Her companionship during the years was a protection to me against worldly influences. Eight years later Mildred became my wife. I have never heard of a better place to find a loyal friend and marriage mate than at a meeting of God’s people, especially when one’s need also is made known in prayer.

YES – Life (lp – 1977) chap. 11 p. 128 par. 28 You Can Know God’s Purpose

But we may, for example, petition God with regard to marriage—for his help in providing a suitable mate.

YES – w77 5/1 p. 266 par. 10 Singleness Can Be Rewarding

Hence, if Jehovah God sees that one of his servants truly needs a mate, is it not reasonable to conclude that he will answer that one’s prayers about finding a good marriage partner? Most assuredly, if the need is really there!

NO – w78 2/1 p. 24 par. 15 Your Maker Deeply Cares About You

But, for example, a single person, desiring marriage may petition God for help with regard to finding a suitable mate or in living a balanced and a useful single life if such a mate does not immediately become available.

YES – w82 6/15 p. 14 par. 14 Singleness—Its Advantages and Opportunities

In 1982, after 26 years of pioneering, her prayer for a spiritually qualified mate was answered as she became the wife of a widowed traveling overseer. True, Jehovah does not always answer our prayers in exactly these ways, but he will strengthen us to deal with whatever problems may persist.

NO – w86 11/15 p. 30 Are You Looking for a Partner in Life?

But even if you cannot now find a suitable Christian mate, prayerfully rely on Jehovah to help you pursue a chaste life as a single person.

NO – w89 11/1 p. 22 pars. 19-20 Do Not Yoke Yourselves With Unbelievers

Make it a matter of prayer, and then wait on Jehovah. In this system of things, no one has a perfectly satisfying life. Your heart may yearn for a mate… Only in the coming new world will “the desire of every living thing” be completely satisfied.—Psalm 145:16.

20 Meanwhile, be determined not to yoke yourself to an unbeliever. A 36-year-old single sister expressed her determination this way: “I pray to Jehovah every day for a marriage mate.”

YES – g90 3/22 p. 24 I Tried to Change the World

The following year Jehovah blessed me with a wonderful wife

NO – w93 1/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers

What can a Christian do when he or she is unable to find a suitable marriage partner?

Pray to Jehovah for help to persevere in the single state… This has helped them to develop spirituality, so that they will be better husbands or wives if they do in time find a suitable mate.

NO – w97 1/1 p. 31 Finding a Wife for Isaac

So this account should not lead us to conclude that everyone who prays for a mate will miraculously be given one.

YES – g04 10/8 p. 15 “Jehovah, You Found Me!”

Our marriage has been one of the greatest blessings Jehovah has bestowed upon me.

NO -w09 11/15 p. 11 par. 23 Enrich Your Prayers Through Bible Study

If you are seeking a marriage mate, studying the prayer found in Ezra chapter 9, coupled with personal entreaty, can strengthen your determination to obey God by ‘marrying only in the Lord.’

NO – w12 5/15 p. 4 par. 3 Do You Really Appreciate God’s Gift of Marriage?

Of course, marriages are not made in heaven, but God will guide Christians in this and other aspects of life if they pray for direction and are led by his spirit.

YES -w14 5/15 p. 18 para.4 Jehovah Has Really Helped Me

Jehovah has helped me in a special way since January 1957. That month I married Evelyn, a graduate of the 14th class of Gilead School.

YES – w15 3/15 p. 31 While Waiting On Jehovah

He cares about your needs and your yearnings. He does not promise anyone a mate. Yet, if you really

need a marriage mate, God knows the best way to satisfy your legitimate desires.

ASKING FOR DONATIONS

NEVER SUGGEST IT – 1894 Watchtower R1637 : page 106

We are opposed to all forms of begging – whether by word, by insinuation, by suggestive hint, by collections, or by going into a Brother’s home and sitting down on him until he is forced to say, Move on.

SUGGEST IT – w60 5/1 p. 267 How Is the Kingdom Work Financed?

If you intend to make one or more contributions to the Watch Tower Society during the next twelve months, send a card or letter to the branch office in your country stating what you hope to contribute to that office to help the work of preaching God’s kingdom. Mark it “Contribution Prospects.”

IS OFFENSIVE – w02 12/1 p. 3 Giving Until It Hurts

… do you find insistent appeals for money disturbing, perhaps even offensive?

NEVER SOLICIT – km 12/06 p. 5 Question Box

The 2nd issue of the WT, Aug 1879, said this about our refusal to imitate the churches and solicit funds: “Zion’s Watch Tower has, we believe JEHOVAH for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support. When He who says: ‘All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,’ fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication.”

SOLICIT – WT Nov 2012 p.8-9. based on Galatians 2:10 “Only we should keep the poor in mind.” Box: “How some choose to contribute to the worldwide work“:

· OUTRIGHT DONATIONS · CONDITIONAL DONATION ARRANGEMENT · CHARITABLE PLANNING

· Insurance · Bank Accounts · Stocks and Bonds

· Real Estate · Gift Annuity · Wills and Trusts

· a reference to the publication Charitable Planning to Benefit Kingdom Service Worldwide

SOLICITING IS NOT SOLICITING – Official online ‘giving’ website (min donation £5).

“It should not be seen as the soliciting of funds in any way.”: https://www.jwgift.org/Welcome.aspx

NEVER TAKE A COLLECTION – 2012 – Who Are Doing Jehovah’s Will Today? (p.24)

We do not tithe, charge dues, or take up collections. … we do not solicit money. Over a century ago, the second issue of the Watchtower magazine stated that we believe we have Jehovah as our backer and that we “will never beg nor petition men for support” – and we never have!

TAKE A COLLECTION – BOE letter 2014 March 29th

“In harmony with the principle at 2 Cor 8:12-14, congregations will now be asked to pool their resources worldwide to support the construction of theocratic facilities… All congregations are asked to establish a monthly resolved donation to support Kingdom Hall and Assembly Hall construction by no later than May 31, 2014… it would be appropriate for the elders to remind the congregation of the resolved monthly commitments. The elders of congregations having funds on deposit with the branch office should review the balance of such funds and decide if these can be donated in full or in part to the worldwide work… Periodically, the body of elders may also review the balance of the congregation funds to determine if surplus cash could be sent to the branch as a donation.”

BEG, SUGGEST, HINT, PETITION – TV.JW.ORG May 2015 JW Broadcasting – Quotes from Stephen Lett:

08:50 For 130 years this organisation has never solicited for funds and is certainly not going to start now.

11:00 Millions of dollars are required each month to finance the colossal kingdom work.

12:20 We in no way want to be categorised with other organisations that coerce their supporters to donate 12:35 All of us have the privilege to donate funds.

12:45 We have many scriptural examples of Jehovah’s servants making known the financial needs.

15:05 In an effort to keep you informed of the support that is needed… We’ve found that the amount of money flowing out will be much greater than the amount of money that we have coming in.*

17:00 There are some facts we want to make you aware of. The financial needs have accelerated at a rate unlike any time in the past.

20:00 Upwards of 170 Regional Translation Offices are needed… An RTO costs from about $1m to several million dollars each, hence we have another reason we need to increase our finances.

20:40 We just felt that you brothers and sisters needed to be made aware of these expenditures.

26:45 We have confidence that our hearts will be moved to contribute what we can each month.

28:30 We felt… that you would apply Pr 3:27 where we’re encouraged “not to withhold what is good”… and this is true even of publishers in less affluent countries.

29:20 If our heart is willing there is something we can usually do even if it’s merely two small coins.

29:50 A small donation from each of Jehovah’s people adds up to a large amount.

31:30 The Governing Body wanted to make you aware of the financial needs in the world field.

*See Luke 14:28, 29 – “Who, wanting to build a tower does not first sit down and calculate the expense…”

UNLIKE CHURCHES, JW’S NEVER COLLECT MONEY! – w2016 May (study edition) p.10 par. 8, 9 Despite this clear direction, most churches are sidetracked by collecting money or by making efforts to survive financially… What is the record of Jehovah’s Witnesses regarding collections? Their work is supported by voluntary donations. No collections are taken at their Kingdom Halls or conventions.

Cartoon telling children to donate their ice-cream money to Jehovah (the Watchtower) to become His friend.

A children’s game all about giving money to Jehovah (the Watchtower)

A song rewritten in October 2016 reminding everyone to donate to Jehovah (the Watchtower)

WT Jan 2017. Giving the WT money is more important than having food in the fridge for a poor widow

BOE Letter 2 Mar 2017 regarding Broadcast Events:

1. An announcement similar to the following will be made during the broadcast program by the chairman: “Each of us has an opportunity to share in the joy of making voluntary offerings. Contribution boxes are located at all facilities tied into this program for those who would like to give financial support to the worldwide preaching work.”

1. Donations placed in the box labelled “Local Congregation Expenses” can be used to cover expenses incurred during the event [italics theirs]. Thereafter, any surplus should be forwarded to the branch office as a donation to the worldwide work.

WT JAN 2018 Why Give to the One Who Has Everything?

1. 17 Why does Jehovah expect us to use our valuable things to give back to him?

• 1. Why does Jehovah expect us to use our valuable things to give back to him?… Giving is an expression of our worship of Jehovah… Likewise today, unselfish giving in appreciation for and in support of the work of the earthly part of Jehovah’s organization is a fundamental aspect of worship… Giving is good for us…

• 1. Today, we too may be asked to make donations for a specific purpose. For example, are there plans to build a new Kingdom Hall that your congregation will use? … Your congregation also no doubt has a standing resolution to assist financially with the worldwide program of building Assembly Halls and Kingdom Halls. [Note: So you are asked to contribute to your own Kingdom Hall build as well as have a congregation donation for Kingdom Hall building???]

We discreetly place funds in the contribution boxes at the Kingdom Hall, or we may make donations online through jw.org.

Our brothers, even those who are in poor economic situations, are like the Macedonians who were in “deep poverty” and yet begged for the privilege to give and did so generously.

p.20 The funds that are received are budgeted and spent accordingly. In recent years, there have been many exciting new initiatives. At times, this resulted in more money going out than coming in for a period of time. [Note: This is NOT proper budgeting!!]

p. 21 [Jehovah] guarantees that we will receive blessings when we give in support of the Kingdom.

(Mark 12:38-40)

Beware the scribes… They devour the houses of the widows… These will receive a more severe judgment.

CHARGING FOR LITERATURE

yb1922 p. 30

“experience has proven that when a person buys a book he is much more likely to read it than when it is given to him; and since our chief object is to get the message into the minds of the people, it has seemed to be the best way to sell them the literature rather than to give it away.”

Question: Why stop charging if it is proven to be the best way to get the message into people’s minds?

EARLY 1980

‘Jimmy Swaggart Ministries’ is informed by the State of California that tax is due on all publications sold since 1974 in the state. The total of which is $183,000.00. Swaggart pays the tax but sues for a refund. This puts the wheels in motion for the case moving toward the U.S. Supreme Court.

FEBRUARY 1989

The U.S. Supreme Court rules sales taxes must be paid for religious publications sold. Although some states had been taxing religious publications from the start, Texas along with 14 other states were not doing so previously.

LATE SPRING/SUMMER 1989

During the U.S District Conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Watchtower Society gives away books for free. Instruction is provided to Jehovah’s Witnesses to place “donations” for covering costs in the Contribution boxes located throughout the faculty.

JUNE 22, 1989

The Watchtower Society files a “friend of the court” brief (amicus curiae) with the U.S. Supreme Court in the Jimmy Swaggart taxation case. This places the Watchtower Society with other religious organizations performing similar acts, such as Krishna Consciousness and the National Council of Churches.

JANUARY 17, 1990

The U.S. Supreme Court upholds that sales tax must be paid on all religious publications ruling against Jimmy Swaggart,

FEBRUARY 9, 1990

The Watchtower Society prepares a letter to be sent and read to all congregations announcing that literature will no longer be sold but offered at a “donation” basis.

FEBRUARY 25, 1990

The Watchtower Society’s letter is read to the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout the U.S. The reason given in the letter? Ironically even after filing a friend of the court, it states… “By adopting a method of literature distribution based completely on donation, Jehovah’s people are able to greatly simplify our Bible education work and separate ourselves from those who commercialize religion.”

MARCH 1, 1990

New “donation arrangement” goes into effect, including distributing magazines and books door-to-door without stating a price. Since they had already been printed, the March 15, 1990 Watchtower and the March 22nd Awake still carried a 25 cents a copy and 5 dollars a year listing in their respective magazine. If this was such a well thought out and planned move by a so-called Godly directed organization, why were the prices still there after such a planned adjustment? The reason is it was not planned, not thought out, and not God directed. It was a quick business decision to avoid taxation, but the brothers worldwide were spun an entirely different story.

*** km 3/90 p. 3 Announcements ***

Literature offer for March: The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s? for a contribution of $1.00. April and May: WT subscription. One-year subscriptions to semimonthly editions are $5.00. One-year subscriptions to monthly editions and six-month subscriptions to semimonthly editions are $2.50. Where the subscription is not obtained, two magazines and a copy of any brochure, except the School brochure, may be offered for the contribution of 80¢. June: Survival Into a New Earth for the contribution of $1.00.

*** km 4/90 p. 7 Announcements ***

Literature offer for April and May: Watchtower subscription. One-year subscriptions to semimonthly editions are available on a complete donation basis. Six-month subscriptions to semimonthly editions and one-year subscriptions to monthly editions can also be obtained. When the subscription is not obtained, two magazines and a copy of any brochure, except the School brochure, may be offered. June: Survival Into a New Earth. July and August: Any 32-page brochure, except the School brochure.

Question: Did the WT ever repay the 16 years worth of tax from 1974 – 1990 as was proved necessary by this court case, or did it fail to pay back Caesars things to Caesar?

w11 12/15 p.8–9 Will we let Solomon’s course be a warning example for us? With similar rationalizing, one might… underreport taxable income.

WHO IS ‘ARIEL’ (ISA 29:1)?

w61 3/15 p. 192 Questions From Readers that these words are addressed to Ariel, concerning which the footnote of the NWT states: “‘Ariel.’ Meaning, perhaps, ‘the altar hearth of God’; or, ‘the lion of God.’ Designating Jerusalem here.” This prophecy would therefore apply to spiritual Jerusalem as represented upon earth by the remnant.

Isaiah’s Prophecy-1 (2000) chap. 22 p. 296 par. 19 Isaiah Foretells Jehovah’s ‘Strange Deed’ “Ariel” possibly means “The Altar Hearth of God,” and here it evidently refers to Jerusalem.

RAPE VICTIM IS GUILTY OF FORNICATION

WT 64, Jan 15 p. 64 teaches if a woman doesn’t scream she is guilty of fornication:

“Thus if a Christian woman does not cry out and does not put forth every effort to flee, she would be viewed as consenting to the violation.”

WT 68, Jun 1, confirms guiltiness by adding:

“Would it be different if the man had a weapon and threatened to kill you if you did not submit? No, the Scriptures plainly state that Christians are under obligation to ‘flee from fornication.’ (1 Cor. 6:18) It is true that you face the possibility of death in this case.”

Aid to Bible Understanding’ (1969) Acknowledges rape is not fornication – not guilty:

“RAPE: Rape is defined as unlawful sexual intercourse without the woman’s consent, effected by force, duress, intimidation…” (p. 1374)

“FORNICATION: Sex relations by mutual agreement between persons not married to each other.” (p. 601)

Awake! March 8, 1974, page 14. Restates earlier belief, not screaming means you are guilty:

“If she did not scream she would be as good as dead anyhow… Also, that if she did not scream she would ruin her relationship with Jehovah God and the Christian congregation; then she would be disfellowshipped or excommunicated from it and that this would be worse than being killed as far as she was concerned.”

Awake! 80, July 8 p.5 – 6 New understanding that being raped renders you helpless – not guilty: “I never physically fought him off in anyway…I was overwhelmingly confused and defenceless against the whole suddenness.”

“Profound terror in the face of physical threats simply renders most women helpless.”

WT 80 Oct 15, p.7, Restates earlier belief, not screaming means you are guilty:

“She told him that if he touched her she would scream as he had never heard anyone scream before. She explained that if she did not she would ruin her relationship with Jehovah God and the Christian congregation.”

WT 83, Mar 15 p.30 – If raped, not guilty of fornication:

“What do we understand here by ‘fornication’? The Greek word in this text is porneia…. A male or female who is forcibly raped would not be guilty of porneia.”

Awake! 84, Feb 22 p. 25 – If you don’t fight back you are unforgivably guilty:

“But if I gave in and he raped me, I would eventually die and have no hope of a resurrection.”

Awake! 84, Jun 8 p. 28 – If raped, not guilty of fornication:

“For the victim to be considered guilty of fornication, there would need to be proof of willing consent.”

Awake! 86, May 22 p. 23 – If you don’t fight back you are guilty:

“Why you should resist an attacker from the first moment…Your conscience will be clear. Even if you are raped, you will not sacrifice your self-respect or cleanness before God”

Awake! 89, Aug 22 p.24 – Restates earlier belief, not screaming means you are guilty:

“It was then that I remembered the scripture in Deuteronomy chapter 22. It says that if a woman does not cry out when attacked, it indicates she is submitting to the man and is committing a sin against Jehovah.”

Awake! 93 3/8 p. 5 The Reality of Rape – not guilty

It is the rapist’s use of force against an unwilling victim that makes him a rapist. Thus, a rape victim is not guilty of fornication.

w03 2/1 p. 31 – You may not be able to scream – Probably not guilty:

“Therefore, a victim who was unable to scream but otherwise did all she could under the circumstances can leave matters in Jehovah’s hands.”

g13 May p.7 – Scream and fight, but you are not responsible for being assaulted – Not guilty:

“Of course, the victim is not responsible for the sexual assault. The aggressor bears that responsibility. React quickly. Scream. Escape or fight back using the element of surprise.” MASTURBATION

RESULTS IN MENTAL AND PHYSICAL DEGRADATION – w1948 November 1st p.326

When women, as is now reported in Norway, seek sexual pleasure with other women, committing masturbation among themselves, it is not the fornication for which, or adultery for which, Jesus said a husband could divorce his wife. But it is an unnatural vice of the female sex, and it is gross uncleanness and is sinful in God’s sight. It eventually results in great degradation mentally and physically…

EASILY LEADS TO SODOMY – w59 9/1 p. 542 Questions From Readers

Self-abuse, unless recognized as something unclean and to be striven against, can easily lead to such practices as fornication, adultery, sodomy and Lesbianism

LEADS TO HOMOSEXUALITY – w70 5/15 pp. 315-316 Avoiding the Snare of Homosexuality

Helpful in this regard, then, is appreciating the fact that autoeroticism or masturbation is no mere innocent pastime but rather a practice that can lead to homosexual acts. How so? In that self-induced masturbation may make it easier and more tempting for one to engage in mutual masturbation, which is a form of homosexuality.

LEADS TO HOMOSEXUALITY – w70 10/1 p. 605 Grand Blessings of the “Men of Goodwill” Assemblies

One part considered the problem of masturbation. Although this is a practice frequently considered normal by worldly persons, it was shown that it is a bad practice that can cause much harm. It can lead to homosexuality.

ENDANGERS YOUR MARRIAGE – w72 2/1 p. 93 Why Avoid Self-Abuse?

Actually, masturbation may endanger your future happiness in marriage.

MAKES YOU INTROVERTED – w73 9/15 p. 566 Breaking Free of Self-Abuse—Why? How?

Because the practice is one “contrary to nature,” the masturbator pays a mental penalty. The habitual practice cripples his social and emotional development, hinders his attaining a healthful outlook and attitude toward the other sex and toward people in general. It can ‘turn the person inward’ upon himself, making him introverted. Or it can, and frequently does, lead into homosexuality

IS DERANGED – w73 9/15 p. 567 Breaking Free of Self-Abuse—Why? How?

That masturbation is abnormal and unnatural is also indicated by the fact that abnormal, mentally deranged people are notorious masturbators. Somewhat similarly, The Bremerton Sun (Washington) states that many mentally disturbed priests and nuns are chronic masturbators.

OFTEN LEADS TO HOMOSEXUALITY – Your Youth chap. 5 p. 39 pars. 9-10 Masturbation and Homosexuality

In fact, masturbation can lead into homosexuality. In such instances the person, not satisfied with his lonely sexual activity, seeks a partner for mutual sex play.

10 This happens much more frequently than you may realize. Contrary to what many persons think, homosexuals are not born that way, but their homosexual behavior is learned. And often a person gets started when very young by playing with another’s sexual parts, and then engaging in homosexual acts.

LEADS TO HOMOSEXUALITY – w76 2/15 p. 123 par. 15 You Must Be Holy Because Jehovah Is Holy

Likewise, unclean practices, such as masturbation, which can be a steppingstone to homosexuality, have been dealt with in a serious, yet understanding, way.

IMPEDES INTELLECTUAL ACTIVITY – w82 10/15 p. 11 Those Weaknesses Can Be Overcome

It is not our purpose here to discuss the very controversial subject of just how harmful masturbation may be to the body. Still, it is indeed of interest that the late Alexis Carrel [1873-1944], noted biologist and Nobel prize winner, stated in his book Man, the Unknown: “It is well known that sexual excesses impede intellectual activity,”

LEADS TO BESTIALITY – w83 6/1 p. 26 Maintaining God’s View of Sex

Why is it that some become involved in sexual offenses—in homosexuality, bestiality, Peeping Tomism, and so forth? … Seemingly without exception, they were habitual masturbators. Since this matter of masturbation repeatedly has come up in connection with sexual perversions, let us examine this practice in the light of God’s Word. What does the Bible say about masturbation?

Note: Actually the bible says nothing specific about masturbation. See w08 below.

IS NOT HARMFUL – 1989 Young People Ask p. 198-199 para 1

Furthermore, this practice has been blamed for all manner of ills-from warts and red eyelids to epilepsy and mental illness. Twentieth-century medical researchers no longer make such alarming claims. Indeed, doctors today believe that no physical illness is caused by masturbation.

IS MENTALLY AND EMOTIONALLY DEFILING – w08 5/15 p. 28 Pursue “Holiness in God’s Fear”

Although the term “masturbation” does not occur in the Bible, can there be any doubt that it is a mentally and emotionally defiling practice?

HOW TO HANDLE BEING RAPED

Awake! 80, July 8 p. 12 – Fight back if you think you should:

“May she properly inflict damage on her assailant? Indeed she may…she may use any means at her disposal to resist intercourse.”

Awake! 84, Feb 22 – Treat the rapist with respect and understanding:

“Treat Him Respectfully – The intended victim should remember that the rapist is a human. No doubt there are circumstances in his life that have precipitated his behaviour. So although a woman should not cower in fear and permit a rapist to intimidate her, at the same time she should treat him understandingly as a fellow human.”

Awake! 84, Feb 22 p. 25 (Same magazine!!) – You must fight back or else it’s an unforgivable sin: “But if I gave in and he raped me, I would eventually die and have no hope of a resurrection.”

Awake! 86, May 22 p. 23 – You must fight back:

“Why you should resist an attacker from the first moment...Your conscience will be clear. Even if you are raped, you will not sacrifice your self-respect or cleanness before God”

Awake! 86, Sept 22 – Fight back if you think you should:

“True, the woman has to respond according to her assessment of the danger to her life, and we believe that is covered in the advice given in the box on page 23 (May 22, 1986). It should be kept in mind that submitting to rape gives no guarantee that the victim will not be beaten or killed afterward. See the article “They Resisted Rapists” in our issue of February 22, 1984.—ED.”

Anyway, it’s all Mum’s fault:

Awake! 74 3/8 p. 15 Faced with the Threat of Rape

Womankind must share the blame. To begin with, until the age of five or six years, the most vital period, little boys have their personalities molded largely by women, their mothers. And as they grow up, it is usually the mother that has the most opportunities to inculcate in her son respect for womankind, both by word and by example. But far too many mothers have come short in this regard. Especially and specifically blameworthy are those female relatives, such as an aunt or even a mother, who have used boys as sexual playthings, thereby starting them on a road that leads to their having aggressive feelings toward women.

DIVORCE ALLOWED FOR HOMOSEXUALITY/BESTIALITY?

1956 – NO : WT56 10/1 p.591 par.20

“Sodomy (the unnatural intercourse of one male with another male as with a female), lesbianism (the homosexual relations between women), and bestiality (the unnatural sexual relations by man or woman with an animal) are not Scriptural grounds for divorce.”

1972 – NO : WT72 1/1 p.32

“While both homosexuality and bestiality are disgusting perversions, in the case of neither one is the marriage tie broken. It is broken only by acts that make an individual “one flesh” with a person of the opposite sex other than his or her legal marriage mate.”

1972 – YES : w72 12/15 p. 767 Questions From Readers

“Does this mean that unnatural and perverted sexual relations such as those engaged in by homosexuals are included in the meaning of this term used by the apostle in recording Jesus’ words? Yes, that is the case… This clearly marks a correction in the view expressed on previous occasions in the columns of this magazine.”

1983 – YES : WT83 3/15 p.30

So, then, “fornication” in the broad sense, and as used at Matthew 5:32 and 19:9, evidently refers to a broad range of unlawful or illicit sex relations outside marriage. Porneia involves the grossly immoral use of the genital organ(s) of at least one human (whether in a natural or a perverted way); also, there must have been another party to the immorality—a human of either sex, or a beast.”

Notes:

Prior to 1972 you could not divorce a mate who engaged in bestiality or homosexuality. If you did divorce them you would be disfellowshipped.

After 1972 you could divorce a mate who engaged in homosexuality.

After 1983 you could finally divorce a mate who was previously scripturally free to have sex with animals. How would you feel if you were disfellowshipped for divorcing a perverted mate, only for the teaching to later change so that you would no longer be disfellowshipped?

— w64 6/15 p. 365 par. 22 Jehovah, the God of Progressive Revelation

“As Jehovah revealed his truths by means of the first-century Christian congregation so he does today by means of the present-day Christian congregation… Jehovah is the one behind all of it.”

DIVORCE ALLOWED FOR PORNEIA BETWEEN MARRIAGE MATES?

NOT EVEN FOR PAST ADULTERY – 1961 Kingdom Service Questions p.35

If many years later a man learns that his wife has committed adultery in the past, would he have ground for putting her away if he refused to have relations with her after hearing her confession? No. For in the intervening time he has had relations with her and she has been rendering him the wifely due, which he has been glad to accept.

No-one Else’s Business! – w69 12/15 p. 765 Questions From Readers

Nonetheless, knowing that marital relations also serve to satisfy passionate desires, some persons have asked about certain sexual practices. We have been obliged to respond that it is not the place of outsiders to dictate to a married couple as to what they will do in this intimate aspect of their marriage.

YES – w74 11/15 p. 704 Questions From Readers

That por·nei’a can rightly be considered as including perversions within the marriage arrangement is seen in that the man who forces his wife to have unnatural sex relations with him in effect “prostitutes” or “debauches” her. This makes him guilty of por·nei’a, for the related Greek verb por·neu’o means “to prostitute, debauch.” Hence, circumstances could arise that would make lewd practices of a married person toward that one’s marriage mate a Scriptural basis for divorce.

YES – Both can be disfellowshipped – w74 11/15 p. 704 Questions From Readers

If, on the other hand, the lewd practices were engaged in by mutual consent, neither mate would have a basis for claiming por·nei’a as a Scriptural ground for divorce. Both marriage partners are guilty. Such a case, if brought to the attention of elders in the congregation, would be handled like any other serious wrongdoing.

YES – But no longer a disfellowshipping offense – w78 2/15 p. 30 Questions From Readers

In the past some comments have appeared in this magazine in connection with certain unusual sex practices, such as oral sex, within marriage and these were equated with gross sexual immorality. On this basis the conclusion was reached that those engaging in such sex practices were subject to disfellowshipping if unrepentant… A careful further weighing of this matter, however, convinces us that, in view of the absence of clear Scriptural instruction, these are matters for which the married couple themselves must bear the responsibility before God and that these marital intimacies do not come within the province of the congregational elders to attempt to control nor to take disfellowshipping action with such matters as the sole basis.

YES – w78 2/15 pp. 31-32 Questions From Readers

If a married person believes that the sexual practices of the mate, though not involving someone outside the marriage, are nevertheless of such a gross nature as to constitute a clear surrender to lewdness or a debauching in lewdness, then that must be his or her own decision and responsibility. Such a one may hold that the circumstances provide Scriptural basis for divorce.

NO – w83 3/15 p. 31 Honor Godly Marriage!

What, though, if one mate wants or even demands to share with his or her partner in what is clearly a perverted sex practice? The above-presented facts show that porneia involves unlawful sexual conduct outside the marital arrangement. Thus, a mate’s enforcing perverted acts, such as oral or anal sex, within the marriage would not constitute a Scriptural basis for a divorce that would free either for remarriage

No-one else’s business! – w83 3/15 p. 31 Honor Godly Marriage!

As already stated, it is not for elders to “police” the private marital matters of couples in the congregation.

The Bible doesn’t comment – w16/8 p.15 Par. 8 Making Christian marriage a success

Although the Bible does not provide specific rules about the kinds and limits of love play that might be associated with natural sexual intimacy

Questions:

1. Prior to 1978, how many were df’d and shunned for wanting certain types of intercourse with their marriage mate (see w74 and w78 above), only for it to later be redefined as a non-df’ing offense?

1. Prior to 1983, how many divorced their mates and remarried basis this teaching, only to later discover that Jehovah actually does not allow this, and future divorces for this reason will now get you df’d? – w83 3/15 p. 31 Honor Godly Marriage! “Those who acted on the basis of the knowledge they had at the time are not to be criticized. Nor would this affect the standing of a person who in the past believed that a mate’s perverted sexual conduct within marriage amounted to porneia and, hence, obtained a divorce and is now remarried.”

MILLIONS NOW LIVING WILL NEVER DIE (an extensive 9+ year preaching campaign 1918-27)

— w90 9/15 p. 17 par. 6 Bless Jehovah’s Holy Name!

“in 1922, J. F. Rutherford, then president of the Watch Tower Society, addressed conventioners at Cedar Point, Ohio, and said: “Since 1914 the King of glory has taken his power . . . The kingdom of heaven is at hand; the King reigns; Satan’s empire is falling; millions now living will never die. Do you believe it? . . . Then back to the field, O ye sons of the most high God! Herald the message far and wide. The world must know that Jehovah is God and that Jesus Christ is King of kings and Lord of lords. This is the day of all days. Behold, the King reigns! You are his publicity agents. Therefore advertise, advertise, advertise, the King and his kingdom.”

“As we have heretofore stated, the great jubilee cycle is due to begin in 1925. At that time the earthly phase of the kingdom shall be recognized…. Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old,… “

— J. F. Rutherford, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 1920, pp. 89, 90.

What an exciting message they proclaimed–“Millions now living will never die!” Brother Rutherford had given a discourse on this subject in 1918. It was also the title of a 128-page booklet published in 1920. From 1920 through 1925, that same subject was featured again and again around the world in public meetings in all areas where speakers were available and in upwards of 30 languages.” — Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.425

What a happy prospect! Though mistaken, they eagerly shared it with others. — Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom, 1993, p. 632.

Genesis 3:4: “At this the serpent said to the woman: “YOU positively will not die””:

(“Proof Conclusive” – Harp of God 1921)

Awake! 1927 8/10 p. 729-733 Growing Up in a New World on Earth [by F. W. Franz]

“Since the things are happening today that Jesus told us about, we know that we are right at the very doorstep of the new world, the world to come. We are moving into the new world. If you try to learn about God in the Bible and try to please Him, you may never die, but move right on into the new world fully and then never have to die.”

“THIS MEANS WHAT IT SAYS: IT IS A FACT”

— w83 10/1 p. 17 par. 16 Millions Get Ready for Uninterrupted Life on Earth

So, then, the statement can now be made with confidence and with due foresight, “Millions now alive will never die off our earth.”

And 79 years later (from the 1918 public talk) they are still repeating the very same thing:

— w97 1/1 p. 11 par. 18 Let All Glorify Jehovah!

In the early 1920’s, a featured public talk presented by Jehovah’s Witnesses was entitled “Millions Now Living Will Never Die.” This may have reflected overoptimism at that time. But today that statement can be made with full confidence.

(Joshua 21:45) Not a promise failed out of all the good promises that Jehovah had made to the house of Israel; all of them came true.

(Joshua 23:14) … you well know with all your heart and with all your soul that not one word out of all the good promises that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you. Not one word of them has failed.

(Isaiah 55:11) So my word that goes out of my mouth will be. It will not return to me without results, But it will certainly accomplish whatever is my delight, And it will have sure success in what I send it to do.

If God’s word always comes true, who’s failing word has the Governing Body been speaking?

THE END WILL BE IN OUR TWENTIETH CENTURY

w50 2/1 pp. 35-37 pars. 1-12 What Do You Do with Your Time?

“The appointed time has grown very short.” (1 Cor. 7:29, An Amer. Trans.) This sobering pronouncement from the lips of one of the world’s foremost authorities on Christianity should be thoughtfully considered by men living in this twentieth century. What time, then, grown so short could possibly affect this generation?” Paul looked confidently forward to the end of the present system of things with its confusion, corruption and violence; and his confidence was based on Holy Scripture and the words of his Master, Christ Jesus. Do you know that the very signs Jesus foretold and his apostles looked for have seen fulfillment on this present generation?

“Perhaps several generations will yet come and go before God’s wrath is expressed against wickedness and its final end brought about.” Such a conclusion should be hastily dismissed from mind. (Matt. 24:34) It is the generation you are living in that is primarily concerned.

As it comes on apace, let us not be found among the scoffers who push the end into the remote future saying, “Perhaps sometime, but not in our day!” Such a group has lived upon this earth in the past.

Awake! 1961 Feb 22 p. 7

That now-operating kingdom in heaven will, within the twentieth century, cleanse the entire earth of wickedness… Can you not see that the twentieth century is the century indicated by the prophetic language of Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, and 2 Timothy 3?

Awake! 1961 Feb 22 p. 8

…is it not only logical that whatever else is recorded in these above-mentioned Bible chapters must also come upon the twentieth century? … Revelation 16:16 calls it the “war of the great day of God the Almighty,” Armageddon. This war will come in the twentieth century. …Now is the time to heed Bible prophecy concerning the twentieth century and live forever in the sunshine of God’s new world.

Awake! 1962 July 22 p. 32

But how many realize that it contains information of special interest to those of us who live in this climactic twentieth century?

The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah (1971) p. 216 para.9

“Shortly, within our twentieth century, the “battle in the day of Jehovah” will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom.”

True Peace and Security (1973) p. 72-73 para. 7-8

“What does [God’s] word say regarding our day? It describes events of this twentieth century.”

Let Your Kingdom Come (1981) p.11

…now in our 20th century, we have come to the time for harvest — “a conclusion of a system of things, and the reapers are angels”!

Watchtower 1984 March 1 pp.18-19

“Some of that “generation” could survive until the end of the century. But there are many indications that “the end” is much closer than that!”

True Peace and Security (1986) p. 69 para. 3

“The Bible clearly describes events of this 20th century“

Revelation Climax (1988 – removed from the 1996 revision) chap. 34 p. 246 par. 1

The John class today also wonders with great wonderment as events unfold in fulfillment of the prophetic vision. If people of the world could see it, they would exclaim, ‘Incredible!’ and the world’s rulers would echo, ‘Unthinkable!’ But the vision becomes a startling 20th-century reality.

Watchtower 1989 January 1 p.12 (loose copy magazine):

“He was laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our 20th century.”

Note: Also see all references to 1975 in the WT publications.

NINE LITERATURE REVISIONS TO WHEN ‘THE END’ WILL BE

1. Changed from: Watchtower 1989 January 1 p.12 (loose copy magazine):

” The apostle Paul was spearheading the Christian missionary activity. He was laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our 20th century.”

1. Changed to: Watchtower 1989 January 1 p.12 (from Bound Volume):

” The apostle Paul was spearheading the Christian missionary activity. He was laying a foundation for a work that would be completed in our day.”

1. Changed from: Awake 1982 – 1995 (Box inside front cover, printed in every magazine):

“Most importantly, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator’s promise of a peaceful and secure new order before the generation that saw the events of 1914 C.E. passes away.”:

1. Changed to: Awake Nov 1995 – Dec 2012 (Box inside front cover, printed in every magazine) “Most important, this magazine builds confidence in the Creator’s promise of a peaceful and secure new world that is about to replace the present wicked, lawless system of things.”:

And by January 2016, even this ‘Creator’s promise’ had been removed:

(Note: cj chap. 5 p. 197 Chapter 5 – But let your Yes mean Yes, and your No, No)

“For one to use God’s name indiscriminately or lightly, or to be continually affirming statements with oaths, [e.g. ‘creator’s promise’ above] smacks of hypocrisy and turns others away from the form of worship that one advocates.”

Draw close to Jehovah (2014) p.277 par.18 says “Dishonesty has become the way of the world today. But the Bible reminds us: “God is not a man that he should tell lies.” Thus, Jehovah’s promises are completely reliable“

1. Changed from: The Time is at Hand (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.2) (1908) pg 101

“the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev.16:14) which will end in A.D. 1914, with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.”

1. Changed to: The Time is at Hand (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.2) (1916) pg 101

“the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev.16:14) which will end in A.D. 1915, with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.”

1. Changed from: Thy Kingdom Come (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.3) (1908) p.228

“That the deliverance of the saints must take place sometime before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time… Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed… With these two thoughts in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.”

1. Changed to: Thy Kingdom Come (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.3) (1937) p.228

“That the deliverance of the saints will take place sometime after 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place thereafter… Just how long after 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed… With these two thoughts in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.”

1. Changed from: Thy Kingdom Come (1904 edition — Millennial Dawn, vol 3) p.342

This measure is 1542 inches, and indicates the year B.C. 1542, as the date at that point. Then measuring down the “Entrance Passage” from that point, to find the distance to the entrance of the “Pit,” representing the great trouble and destruction with which this age is to close, when evil will be overthrown from power, we find it to be 3416 inches, symbolizing 3416 years from the above date, B.C. 1542. This calculation shows AD. 1874 as marking the beginning of the period of trouble; for 1542 years B.C. plus 1874 years AD. equals 3416 years. Thus the Pyramid witnesses that the close of 1874 was the chronological beginning of the time of trouble such as was not since there was a nation — no, nor ever shall be afterward.

And thus it will be noted that this “Witness” fully corroborates the Bible testimony on this subject…

1. Changed to: Thy Kingdom Come (1910 edition — Studies In The Scriptures, vol. 3) p.342

This measure is 1542 inches, and indicates the year B.C. 1542, as the date at that point. Then measuring down the “Entrance Passage” from that point, to find the distance to the entrance of the “Pit,” representing the great trouble and destruction with which this age is to close, when evil will be overthrown from power, we find it to be 3457 inches, symbolizing 3457 years from the above date, B.C. 1542. This calculation shows AD. 1915 as marking the beginning of the period of trouble; for 1542 years B.C. plus 1915 years AD. equals 3457 years. Thus the Pyramid witnesses that the close of 1914 will be the beginning of the time of trouble such as was not since there was a nation — no, nor ever shall be afterward.

And thus it will be noted that this “Witness” fully corroborates the’ Bible testimony on this subject…

1. Changed from: The Truth that Leads to Eternal Life 1968 pg.9 ch.1 Blessings from God Near at Hand! Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is “a period of unequalled instability, unequalled violence.” And he warned: “I know enough of what is going on to assure you that, in fifteen years from today, [ie in 1975] this world is going to be too dangerous to live in.”

1. Changed to: The Truth that Leads to Eternal Life 1981 pg.9 ch.1 Blessings from God Near at Hand! Also, as reported back in 1960, a former United States Secretary of State, Dean Acheson, declared that our time is “a period of unequalled instability, unequalled violence.” Based on what he knew was then going on in the world, it was his conclusion that soon “this world is going to be too dangerous to live in.” (Note: When this was published (1981) this 15 year prediction from 1960 had already expired!!)

1. Changed from: The Truth that Leads to Eternal Life 1968 p.88-89 ch.10

More recently, the book entitled “Famine-1975!” [by W. & P. Paddock, 1967, pp. 52, 55, 61.] said concerning today’s food shortages:

“Hunger is rampant throughout country after country, continent after continent around the undeveloped belt of the tropics and subtropics. Today’s crisis can move in only one direction – toward catastrophe. Today hungry nations; tomorrow starving nations. By 1975 civil disorder, anarchy, military dictatorships, runaway inflation, transportation breakdowns and chaotic unrest will be the order of the day in many of the hungry nations.”

1. Changed to: The Truththat Leads to Eternal Life 1981 p.88-89 ch.10

More recent reports have shown that a constant lack of adequate food, resulting in chronic malnutrition, has become the “major world hunger problem today.” The London Times reported:

“There have always been famines, but the scale and ubiquity [presence everywhere] of hunger today is on a totally new scale. . . . Today malnutrition is said to affect more than a thousand million people; perhaps as many as 400 million live constantly on the brink of starvation.”-June 3, 1980.

1. Changed from: Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century 1989 p. 15

… and Christ would rule in the midst of his enemies for a period not exceeding one generation. The complete end of wickedness would come by means of a “great tribulation,” culminating in the war at Har– Magedon and followed by Christ’s Thousand Year Reign of peace.

1. Changed to: Jehovah’s Witnesses—Who Are They? What Do They Believe? 2000 p. 15

… and Christ would rule in the midst of his enemies. The complete end of wickedness would come by means of a “great tribulation,” culminating in the war at Har–Magedon and followed by Christ’s Thousand Year Reign of peace.

1. Changed from: Revelation Climax (1988) chap. 34 p. 246 par. 1

The John class today also wonders with great wonderment as events unfold in fulfillment of the prophetic vision. If people of the world could see it, they would exclaim, ‘Incredible!’ and the world’s rulers would echo, ‘Unthinkable!’ But the vision becomes a startling 20th-century reality.

9. Changed to: Revelation Climax (1996) chap. 34 p. 246 par. 1

The John class today also wonders with great wonderment as events unfold in fulfillment of the prophetic vision. If people of the world could see it, they would exclaim, ‘Incredible!’ and the world’s rulers would echo, ‘Unthinkable!’ But the vision becomes a startling reality in our day.

THE DUE TIME “IS NEAR” (Luke 21:8 NWT 2013)

(Luke 21:8) He said: “Look out that you are not misled, for many will come on the basis of my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The due time is near.’ Do not go after them.”

w50 8/1 p. 236 God’s Government

Clearly now it is seen that the birth of the child Jesus shall in due time be ‘glory to Almighty God’ for all creatures that live, and that through him and his government peace shall come to stay and shall be a blessing to all men of good-will… Today the people on earth that are of good-will toward God and his kingdom have reason to rejoice, and should rejoice, because the time of complete deliverance and peace everlasting is near.

w56 2/1 p. 77 par. 6 Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves

The kingdom of God, the kingdom of the heavens, has drawn near more fully now than when Jesus sent out the twelve apostles to preach… Particularly after the close of World War I in 1918 it became the due time for this good news of the newborn kingdom to be preached wherever the earth is inhabited.

w58 8/15 p. 486 The Watch Tower Society in God’s Purpose

It is but reasonable to expect that God would also have a channel of communication today, especially since his Word shows that the time is near for settling the great universal issue… That due time will be Armageddon, “the war of the great day of God the Almighty.”

w62 7/15 p. 420 Have the Endurance of Job Today

Besides, has not God promised that in his due time, which is now very near, all suffering, all sorrow, pain and death will end?

w62 5/15 p. 305 par. 8 The Name of Jehovah—a Strong Tower

Just as surely as the stream of time catches up with God’s due time for Armageddon, so this evil world will make its abysmal plunge into destruction. “Howl, you people, ‘Alas for the day!’ for a day is near, yes, a day belonging to Jehovah is near.”

w70 11/1 p. 671 By Love and Obedience Not Forgetting Jehovah

More than all this, they can have the assurance and firm hope that they will, in Jehovah’s due time, enjoy the blessings of everlasting life in happiness in God’s new system of things so near at hand.

g71 10/8 p. 26 Time of Rest and Refreshment at Hand

Yet the “all things” foretold by Jesus for our day must occur fully before ‘this generation passes completely away.’ That means the due time for their full occurrence must be near at hand, very close.

g74 11/22 p. 6 Religion in the Political Arena

Jesus knew that his kingdom was heavenly and that it would, in due time, end all oppression and wickedness. The facts indicate that we live near the time when that event will take place.

World Government (1977) – go chap. 8 p. 147 par. 58 Marked Days During the “Time of the End”

Moreover, God’s due time draws near when, not only Daniel, but also Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and all the other faithful prophets of old will stand up for their “lot,” waking up from the sleep of death “to indefinitely lasting life” and to the opportunity of serving as “princes in all the earth”.

w84 6/15 p. 16 par. 8 Happiness Despite a Lawless, Loveless World

The due time draws near for the rightful Lawgiver, Jehovah, to take action against this lawless world.

THE END IS “VERY VERY” NEAR

w69 2/1 p. 92 They Feel the Urgency

“The end of this system of things is very, very close, and we all know it!”

w77 4/1 p. 198 par. 5 How Can You Find Real Security?

evidence from fulfilled Bible prophecy shows that we are very, very late in the “last days” of this

present wicked system of things.

w81 12/15 pp. 28-29 Active Christians in a Critical Time what indications do we have that it is going to terminate very, very soon?

w97 1/1 p. 11 par. 18 Let All Glorify Jehovah!

…the end of Satan’s system is very, very near!

w98 8/15 p. 24 Living and Preaching in the Shadow of a Volcano

Though no one knows exactly when that end will come, there is no doubt that it is coming and that it is very, very close.

THE DUE TIME “HAS APPROACHED” (Luke 21:8 NWT 1984)

(Luke 21:8) He said: “Look out that YOU are not misled; for many will come on the basis of my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The due time has approached.’ Do not go after them.”

— w13 8/15 p. 18 par. 3 Consider and Encourage One Another

As this world approaches Armageddon

— w12 3/15 p. 11 par. 4 Help People to “Awake From Sleep”

Another way we can “sleep on” is by ignoring the fact that Jehovah’s time to destroy the ungodly has approached.

— w11 3/15 p. 32 par. 19 Keep Awake, as Jeremiah Did Nonetheless, as the “great tribulation” approaches…

— w11 1/15 p. 24 par. 11 Empowered to Fight Temptation and Cope With Discouragement As Armageddon approaches…

— w95 11/1 p. 20 par. 16 A Time to Keep Awake

As the time approaches, keep awake, for Jehovah is about to bring calamity on all of Satan’s system!

— w93 1/1 p. 10 par. 4 Rejoicing in Our Grand Creator

The ingathering accelerates as the end of Satan’s system approaches.

— w93 1/1 p. 21 par. 14 Shepherding With Our Grand Creator The situation is urgent. The end of this system approaches fast.

— w92 1/1 p. 22 par. 19 Fear Jehovah and Glorify His Holy Name The glorious day of Jehovah’s vindication fast approaches!

— w81 3/15 p. 20 par. 1 Glorifying the Ministry

THE time approaches when those who are ministers of any false religion will be ashamed.

— w75 10/15 p. 622 par. 23 The One Government for One World Under God’s Sovereignty

…national sovereignties and the patriotic upholders of them will suffer extermination in the world’s greatest trouble that rapidly approaches

— ka p. 5 1973 – the book “God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached“

Dedicated to the God whose time has approached to introduce the thousand-year kingdom of his

Messiah

— w71 9/15 p. 564 par. 21 Set Apart from the World

As the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy about “pangs of distress” approaches its finale, it is time to flee in haste

— w69 1/1 p. 32 Announcements the end of this system of things rapidly approaches.

— w67 6/1 p. 350 Paying Fully What We Owe God

As Jehovah’s great day approaches it becomes ever more imperative that we do not neglect assembling

— w60 7/15 p. 421 The Gathering Storm of Armageddon

However, a far greater storm approaches, one that will encompass the entire inhabited earth.

— w58 4/15 p. 239 par. 20 The Time to Sing the New Song

The time rapidly approaches, therefore, for the reigning Seed of God’s woman to bruise the great Serpent Satan the Devil at the head

— w51 1/1 p. 21 “Put Off Every Weight”

To win out as the battle approaches its final stage, as the race enters its final lap, Christians must lay aside every weight

— 1914 Resolution “Seeing now more clearly than ever before that God’s kingdom of a thousand years has approached… “

WE ARE AT “THE THRESHOLD” (SINCE 1883!) w16 June p.21 para. 14 Jehovah Our God Is One Jehovah We stand at the threshold of the promised new world.

w06 5/15 p. 5 God’s Purpose for the Earth—Soon to Be Fulfilled

We are now on the threshold of a new world promised by Jehovah God. “

w04 10/15 p. 17 par. 12 “Go About in the Land”

Having traveled from Egypt to Mount Sinai and then 170 miles [270 km] to Kadesh, they were as if on the doorstep of the Promised Land. In our case, we are on the threshold of the promised earthly Paradise.

w03 10/15 p. 6 How Can You Make Wise Decisions?

We are on the threshold of that new world. Will you enter to enjoy everlasting life on earth under God’s Kingdom? Or will you be removed from the earth when Satan’s system is eliminated?

w01 2/1 p. 9 par. 4 Have You Made the Truth Your Own?

After all, we are already in the 21st century.” “Are we on the threshold of Armageddon, or is it a long way off?” If such doubts should arise, what can we do to remove them?

w00 1/15 p. 7 God’s Prophetic Word Gives Hope for the Future

Yes, we stand at the very threshold of the fulfillment of Jehovah’s decree against Satan and his entire wicked system.

w97 7/15 p. 19 par. 17 Are You Pursuing Virtue?

Today, Jehovah’s people stand at the threshold of the righteous new world.

w83 3/1 p. 8 Is There a Way out of Unhappiness?

The difficult time all faithful Christians are now having is soon to end, for we are rapidly approaching a new, happy era. We are on the threshold of “a new heaven and a new earth.”

w70 4/1 p. 208 par. 2 Building Disciples Having the Quality of Endurance

We are fifty-five years into the Biblically foretold “time of the end” for this system of things, and the world stands at the very threshold of a “great tribulation” culminating in Armageddon, “the war of the great day of God the Almighty.”

w60 8/15 p. 508 par. 21 Watch Yourself, for You Are Being Watched!

We are at the very threshold of Armageddon when Jehovah is about to destroy this satanic old world and everyone conducting himself according to its wicked standards

w50 10/1 p. 355 par. 20 “Droop Not Your Hands”

And now in this “time of the end”, when we are at the threshold of the new world, he has gathered us to his organization in fulfillment of his promise

w1916 October 15th p.308 – If our understanding of the Bible’s teaching is correct, we are on the threshold of the Millennium. And this fact explains not only the progress of invention and natural science, but also the finishing of the Mystery respecting God’s gracious purposes for our race, foretold in the Bible in symbols and types.

w1915 January 15th p.29 – And now we realize that we stand on the threshold of the Kingdom, and that possibly our next report will not be to Brooklyn, but to Headquarters beyond the veil.

w1908 January 1st p.6 – Thus we find ourselves at the threshold of what we believe to be the last seven years of this Gospel dispensation.

w1894 February 15th p.56 – we stand at the threshold of the new dispensation, and in the very midst of all the disintegrating influences of the old. A few more years will wind up the present order of things, and then the chastened world will stand face to face with the actual conditions of the established Kingdom of God.

w1894 February 1st p.45 – to-day we stand upon the very threshold of that new dispensation –the Millennial reign of Christ, when all of these things are shortly to be fulfilled –when Abraham himself shall return from the captivity of death (Isa. 61:1; Luke 4:18), when his natural seed also shall return and possess the land

w1893 November 1st and 15th p.345 – [we are] on the very threshold of a divinely predicted time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation, a trouble which all thinking people begin to realize, and the crisis and outcome of which they greatly fear.

w1883 October p.2 – Now we are just at the threshold of the age of glory.

DATES WHICH HAD TO BE REVISED BECAUSE THEY FAILED

606 BC – Studying God’s Word, we have measured the 2520 years, the seven symbolic times, from that year 606 B.C. and have found that it reached down to October, 1914, as nearly as we were able to reckon. We did not say positively that this would be the year. (Watchtower, November 1, 1914, p. 325)

1. – Napoleon began this Egyptian campaign in 1798, finished it, and then returned to France on Oct 1, 1799. The campaign is briefly, yet graphically described in the prophecy, verses 40-44; and its being completed in 1799 marks, according to the prophet’s own words, the beginning of “the time of the end. (Creation; 1927; p. 293)

1. – The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the “time of the end” began in 1799; that the Lord’s second presence began in 1874. (The Watchtower, March 1, 1922)

1. – In this chapter we present the Bible evidence which indicates that six thousand years from the creation of Adam were complete with A.D. 1872; and hence that, since A.D. 1872 are chronologically entered upon the seventh thousand or the Millennium. (Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, p. 33, 1889)

1. – If, then, the seventh thousand-year period of earth’s history be an epoch specially noted as the period of Christ’s reign, we shall by showing that it began in 1873, be proving that we are already in it. (Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, p. 40. 1889)

1. – We have no doubt whatever in regard to the chronology [for] the dates of 1874, 1914, 1918, and 1925. It was on this line of reckoning that the dates 1874, 1914, and 1918 were located; and the Lord has placed the stamp of his seal upon 1914 and 1918 beyond any possibility of erasure. (w1922, 5/15 p.150)

1878 – Our Lord, the appointed King, is now present, since October 1874, A.D… and the formal

inauguration of his kingly office dates from April 1878, A.D. (Studies in the Scriptures, Vol.4, p.621, 1897)

1881 – To our understanding the general call to this joint heirship with our Redeemer as members of the New Creation of God, ceased in 1881. (The New Creation; 1899; 1915 ed.; p. 95)

1910 – According to our expectations the stress of the great time of trouble will be on us soon, somewhere between 1910 and 1912, culminating with the end of the ‘Times of the Gentiles,’ October, 1914. (The New Creation, Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 6, p. 579, 1904)

1914 – In this chapter we present the Bible evidence proving that the full end of the times of the gentiles, i.e., the full end of their lease of dominion, will be reached in A.D. 1914; and that the date will be the farthest limit of the rule of imperfect men. (The Time Is At Hand, 1888, p. 76, 77)

1914 – Complete destruction of the ‘powers that be’ of ‘this present evil worlds – political, financial, ecclesiastical – about the close of the Time of the Gentiles; October A.D. 1914. (Studies in the Scriptures, IV, p. 622, 1897)

1. – When Uranus and Jupiter meet in the humane sign of Aquarius in 1914, the long-promised era will have made a fair start in the work of setting man free to work out his own salvation. (w1903 5/1 p.130)

1. – In the coming 26 years, all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved. (C.T. Russell, Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, p. 98-99, 1889) [1889 + 26 years = 1915]

1915 – While it’s possible that Armageddon may begin next Spring, yet this purely speculation to attempt to say just when. We see, however, that there are parallels between the close of the Jewish age and this Gospel age. These parallels seem to point to the year just before us part particularly the early months.

(Watchtower Reprints, VI, Sept 1, 1914, p. 5527)

1915 – In view of strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the kingdom of God, will be accomplished near the end of A.D. 1915. (The Time Is At Hand, 1915 edition, p. 99)

1918 – Also, in the year 1918, when God destroys the churches wholesale and the church members by million, 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 Finished Mystery, 1917 edition, p. 485)

1920 – Even the republics will disappear in the fall of 1920. And the mountains were not found. Every kingdom of earth will pass away, be swallowed up in anarchy. (The Finished Mystery, 1917 edition, p. 258)

1. – Even if the time of our change should not come within ten years, what more should we ask? Are we not a blessed, happy people? Is not our God faithful? If anyone knows anything better, let him take it. If any of you ever find anything better, we hope you will tell us. (Watchtower, Dec 15, 1914, p. 376.)

1. – ‘There will be no slip-up… Abraham should enter upon the actual possession of his promised inheritance in the year 1925. (Watchtower Oct. 15, 1917, p. 6157)

1925 – There is evidence that the establishment of the Kingdom in Palestine will probably be in 1925, ten years later than we once calculated. (Studies In The Scriptures, Vol 7, The Finished Mystery, p. 128)

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

1925 – The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, they were inclined to throw away everything. (Watchtower 1925, p. 56)

1932 – They had preached that in an early time God would overthrow “Christendom”. Many had emphasized the year 1925 as the date, and then when that date did not materialize the date was moved up to 1932. Again, 1932 came and ”Christendom” was not destroyed, and now it was discovered that

“Christendom” would be spared for a while longer for the sake of the Jonadab class. (w1938 2/15 p. 54)

1934 – True, it is expecting great things to claim, as we do, that within the coming twenty-six years all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved. (The Time Is At Hand; 1889; 1908 ed.; p. 99)

1940 – The year 1940 is certain to be the most important year yet because Armageddon is very near. It behooves all who love righteousness to put forth every effort to advertise The Theocracy while the privileges are still open. (Informant, April, 1940, p. 1)

1975 – Discussion of 1975 overshadowed about everything else. ‘The new book compels us to realise that

Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed,’ said a conventioneer. (Watchtower 15/10/1966, p 629)

1975 – Are we to assume from this study that the battle of Armageddon will be all over by the autumn of 1975, and the long-looked-for thousand-year reign of Christ will begin by then ? Possibly… It may involve only a difference of weeks or months, not years. (Watchtower, Aug. 15, 1968, p499)

1975 – There are only about ninety months left before 6,000 years of mans existence on earth is completed… The majority of people living today will probably be alive when Armageddon breaks out, and there are no resurrection hopes for those who are destroyed then. So, now more than ever, it is vital not to ignore that spirit of wanting to do more. (KM, March 1968, p. 4 [1968 + 90 months = 1975])

1975 – “Yes, the end of this system is so very near! Is that not reason to increase our activity?… Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world’s end.” (Kingdom Ministry, May 1974, p. 3)

2000 – If the wicked system of this world survived until the turn of the century [the year 2000], which is highly improbable in view of world trends and the fulfillment of Bible prophecy, there would still be survivors of the World War I generation. However, the fact that their number is dwindling is one more indication that “the conclusion of the system of things” is moving fast toward its end. (w80 10/15 p. 31)

20th Century – Shortly, within our twentieth century, the “battle in the day of Jehovah” will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom. (The Nations Shall Know (1971); 2nd ed.; p. 216)

Notes:

‘If these prophesies have not been fulfilled, and if all possibility of fulfilment is past, then these prophets are proven false.’ (Prophecy, 1929, p 22)

“True, there have been those in times past who predicted an “end” to the world, even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The ‘end’ did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying. Why? What was missing? Missing from such people were God’s truths and the evidence that He was using and guiding them.” (Awake, Oct. 8, 1968)

(Deuteronomy 18:20-22) ‘If any prophet presumptuously speaks a word in my name that I did not command him to speak or speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. ²¹ However, you may say in your heart: “How will we know that Jehovah has not spoken the word?” ²² When the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word is not fulfilled or does not come true, then Jehovah did not speak that word. The prophet spoke it presumptuously. You should not fear him.’

ADAM’S SKIN COLOUR

HE WAS TAWNY – w1902 July 15 Vol. XXIII No.14 p.216 R3043

“if we may judge of Adam, Noah and Abraham by the only nation whose ancestors can be traced unblemished back to these heads of the race, the Jews, we may suppose that they were neither as white as some of us, nor as black as the negro, but of a swarthy, tawny color.”

HE WAS BLACK – The Golden Age, November 28, 1928, pages 157, 158

HE WAS RED / WE DON’T KNOW – w76 4/15 p. 255 Questions From Readers

“Adam’s skin may have been reddish, or it may not have been. Since the basic relationship between adam (Adam, man) and adamah (ground) at Genesis 2:7 stressed that Adam was an earthling, from the ground, his skin color could have been any of the various hues we find today among peoples earth wide.”

ADAMS CREATION DATE

4129 BC – WT 1896

4128 BC – The Time is At Hand (1889) p. 53

4128 BC – Millennial Dawn Vol 3 (1902) p.242 / Studies in the Scriptures Vol 3 (1924) p. 242

4028 BC on Friday March 21st at 3:00am! – Golden Age March 13th 1935 p.376/382

4026 BC – The Truth Shall Make You Free p.150 – 151

1. BC – New Heavens and a New Earth (1953) Chart p.364
2. BC – w67 7/15 p.446 and w89 8/1 p. 10 Par. 2

(Note: These dates were all calculated wrongly anyway, since they did not subtract an extra year to cater for there being no zero year between 1BC and 1AD)

DID ADAM HAVE A SEX DRIVE?

NO – w56 9/1 p. 529 par. 14 The Divine Origin of Marriage Adam felt no desires of sex.

NO – w59 9/1 p. 542 Questions From Readers

Perfect man and woman had full control of their sexual desire. This is apparent from the fact that Adam and Eve did not have relations while in the garden of Eden.

YES – w68 12/1 p. 736 Questions From Readers

God created the sex impulse and procreative powers in Adam & Eve and told them to produce offspring.

HOW LONG AFTER ADAM WAS CREATED WAS EVE CREATED?

QUITE SOME TIME – w55 2/1 p. 95 Questions From Readers

Why, it must have taken Adam quite some time to name all the animals, as he was commissioned to do… It was not until after Adam completed this assignment of work that his helpmate Eve was created.

WE CANNOT KNOW – 1963 All Scripture Inspired

Whatever time elapsed between Adam’s creation and the end of the sixth day must be subtracted from the 5,988 years in order to give the actual length of time from the beginning of the 7th day until [1963]. It does no good to use Bible chronology for speculating on dates that are still future in the stream of time.

THE SAME YEAR – w68 5/1 p. 271 par. 4 Making Wise Use of the Remaining Time it is logical that he would create Eve soon after Adam, perhaps just a few weeks or months later in the

same year,

THE SAME YEAR – Aid Book (1971) ‘EVE’ p.538

At the age of 130 another son was born to her. Eve called his name Seth. (C.F.I. Insight ‘EVE’ p.772)

WE DON’T KNOW – w76 7/15 p. 437 par. 25 Keeping a Balanced View of Time

We do not know whether it was a brief time such as a month or a few months, a year or even more.

SOME TIME – w81 9/15 p. 26 par. 1 If a Relative Is Disfellowshiped

After Adam had been alone for some time, God said: “It is not good for the man to continue by himself.” Then He created Eve

So in 1968 and 1971, soon after the WT started their 1975 prophecy, the WT taught that Eve was logically created in the same year as Adam. Despite having no proof, this conveniently supported their date setting. Then in 1976 after their prophecy failed, Eve’s creation was conveniently pushed back by “a year or more”.

WILL ADAM BE RESURRECTED?

YES – Watchtower 1920 Oct 15 p.316

“The death of Christ secures for Adam and all of his race one full opportunity for salvation and no more.”

YES – Reconciliation (1928) pp.323, 324 – Rutherford

“Just when Adam will be awakened, only the Lord knows. It may be early or it may be late during the period of restoration.”

NO – Salvation (1939) p.43 – Rutherford

“There is no promise found in the Scriptures that Adam’s redemption and resurrection and salvation will take place at any time. Adam had a fair trial for life and completely failed.”

NO – From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained p.236

“Adam and Eve are viewed as among those who are incorrigible sinners who “proved that they were not worthy of life, and they will not be resurrected.”

DID THE EARTH HAVE RAIN PRIOR TO THE FLOOD? (GEN 2:5)

NO – w1883 September Vol 5 No.2 p.8 Questions Column

Furthermore, we learn that until the flood, there had been no rain on the earth, it being watered by a mist instead. (Gen 2:5-6)

NO – w1889 November 15 Vol XX No.22 p.251 Noah’s Intoxication Excusable

The breaking of this canopy or envelope of water not only produced the flood, but altered the conditions of nature so that storms, rains, etc., resulted, things which had never been before.

NO – w1909 May 1 Vol XXX No.9 p.135 Heir of Righteousness we are to remember that the Scriptures declare that up to that time there had been no rain on the earth.

NO – w1926 3/15 p.93

By reason of the vaporous canopy there had been no rain prior to the deluge

NO – w51 2/1 p. 90 Is Experience the Best Teacher?

Well, in Noah’s day when he preached that it was going to rain down the people thought him crazy. They were used to moisture coming up from the ground and watering the vegetation, not to rain showering down from the sky. Of that preflood earth Genesis 2:5, 6 states: “The LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth”

NO – w53 3/1 p. 137 par. 17 Why the Struggle to Keep Integrity?

Noah followed in God’s way and believed what God had said to him. He showed his faith in it by constructing an ark, although there had never been rain upon the earth since man’s creation.

NO – w56 2/15 p. 127 Questions From Readers

So this vapor aside from what rivers there were was able to keep the plants in a continually flourishing condition until the flood and to do so without rain… The earth was also rainless.

NO – it-2 (1988) p. 1148 Vegetation

To supply needed moisture for coming plant life, Jehovah provided that mist should regularly rise from the earth to water the ground. It kept vegetation flourishing earth wide, even though there was then no rain.

WE DO NOT KNOW – w98 1/15 p. 9 par. 6 “Walking by Faith, Not by Sight” Had there been rain prior to this? The Bible does not say.

Notes: After 115 years of being certain, we decide we don’t know after all.

w01 7/1 p. 22 Trees That Stand the Test of Time article says:

“Some claim that Methuselah, a bristlecone pine growing at an elevation of 10,000 feet [3,000 m] in the White Mountains of California, is 4,700 years old.”

Calculating 4,700 years prior to 2001 takes us to 2700 BCE. The Flood was meant to have occurred 330 years later in 2370 BCE, meaning that particular tree survived being immersed for over a year in the salty flood waters! Maybe this tree was like the olive tree which the released dove found, in that they both survived that cataclysm.

Presumably also the Egyptians didn’t notice the flood, since their Old Kingdom has uninterrupted occupation from 2650BCE to 2150BCE.

For more things that lived through the flood, research the bronze age, the worlds oldest structures,

Sargon the Great, the Indus valley and Majiayao culture.

JW’s AS PROPHETS

WT 1919 Oct 1 p.297 – CT Russell was a prophet

“This was the test – the coming down of fire; and the fulfilment exactly on time has proved that Pastor Russell was one of God’s great reformers and prophets.”

Watchtower 1931 Nov 1 p.327 – “The Watchtower is not the instrument of any man or set of men, nor is it published according to the whims of men. No man’s opinion is expressed in The Watchtower.”

Watchtower 1931 Jun 1 p.160

“Jehovah God has made known to his anointed ones in advance what these Scriptures mean.”

Watchtower, 1950, 8/15 p. 263 – JW’s are not prophets

“However, The Watchtower does not claim to be inspired in its utterances, nor is it dogmatic. It invites careful and critical examination of its contents in the light of the Scriptures.”

May 15, 1955 Watchtower (pages 305 and 308) – JW’s are ‘inspired’ prophets: 16 …we next observe that the official “Word” transmits the message either by means of an angelic messenger who appears face to face or by the use of God’s holy spirit to inspire the next agent in the line of communication… The earthly channel is either a prophet or a collective prophet-like organization. Page 308: From the prophetic shadows to the actual realities we observe that this God-provided channel for Christians is the collective congregation of anointed ones who serve as a prophet-like organization under the leadership of its communicating head, Christ Jesus. –Eph 5:23

w59 1/15 pp. 40-41 pars. 11-14 Down with the Old—Up with the New! – JW’s are prophets 11 Jeremiah prophesied forty years in the time of the end of the kingdom of Judah. So who will prophesy with his message in this time of the end of the nations of this world? 13 The fact that decides the answer to the question is, not, Do all the clergy of Roman Catholicism and of Protestantism agree that Jehovah’s witnesses have been and are God’s prophet to the nations? but, Who discerned the divine will for Christians in this time of the world’s end and offered themselves to do it? Who have undertaken God’s foreordained work for this day of judgment of the nations? Who have answered the call to the work and have done it down till this year 1958? Whom has God actually used as his prophet? 14 By the historical facts of the case Christendom is beaten back in defeat. Jehovah’s witnesses are deeply grateful today that the plain facts show that God has been pleased to use them. All the preaching and all the Bible educational work that they have done till now in 175 countries and islands of the sea they confess has been, not by help of a military army, nor by human power, but by God’s spirit, his invisible active force. (Zech. 4:6, AV) It has been because Jehovah thrust out his hand of power and touched their lips and put his words in their mouths.

1971 – “The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah , How? page 70 – JW’s are prophets

“Likewise it was a trying mission upon which the modern Ezekiel class was sent, to religious people of the same type as those in Ezekiel’s day. But regardless of how Christendom views or regards this group of anointed witnesses of Jehovah, the time must come, and that shortly, when those making up Christendom will know that really a “prophet” of Jehovah was among them. “

w72 4/1 p.197 – JW’s are prophets (see picture on next page)

“So, does Jehovah have a prophet to help them, to warn them of dangers and to declare things to come? These questions can be answered in the affirmative… This ‘prophet’ was not one man, but was a body of men and women… known at that time as International Bible Students. Today they are known as Jehovah’s Christian Witnesses… Of course, it is easy to say that this group acts as a “prophet” of God. It is another thing to prove it. The only way that this can be done is to review the record. What does it show?“

Gods view of false prophets:

(Deuteronomy 18:20-22) “‘If any prophet presumptuously speaks a word in my name that I did not command him to speak or speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. ²¹ However, you may say in your heart: “How will we know that Jehovah has not spoken the word?” ²² When the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word is not fulfilled or does not come true, then Jehovah did not speak that word. The prophet spoke it presumptuously. You should not fear him.'”

(Ezekiel 13:8, 9) Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said: “‘For the reason that YOU men have spoken untruth and YOU have visioned a lie, therefore here I am against YOU,’ is the utterance of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah.” ⁹ And my hand has come to be against the prophets that are visioning untruth and that are divining a lie. In the intimate group of my people they will not continue on…

w72 4/1 p.197 image

w73 3/1 p. 150 Heeding Divine Warning Is Wisdom – JW’s are prophets

What is to be gained by hesitating and doubting to the end that Jehovah can raise up and has raised up a genuine “prophet” within our generation?

hs (1976) chap. 8 p. 148 par. 22 “Spirit of Life from God Entered into Them”

The facts substantiate that the remnant of Christ’s anointed disciples have been doing that prophesying to all the nations for a witness in favor of God’s kingdom. Logically, then, they must be the ones upon whom God’s spirit has actually been poured out… Why argue about it?

w82 10/1 p. 27 para 8-9 – JW’s are prophets

At this late date there is a mere remnant of this “prophet” class yet on Earth. The “war of the great day of God the Almighty” could not start before this composite “prophet” ends his work.

Reasoning From the Scriptures (1985 and 1989) – JW’s are not prophets “Jehovah’s Witnesses do not claim to be inspired prophets.”

Awake 6/8/1986 p.9 – JW’s are prophets

“You will be interested to learn that God has on earth a people, all of whom are prophets, or witnesses for God. In fact, they are known throughout the world as Jehovah’s Witnesses.”

Reasoning From the Scriptures (1989) p.133 – JW’s are prophets

“If any individual claim to represent God but decline to use god’s personal name, and make it a practice to express their own opinions on matters, are they measuring up to this important qualification of a true prophet?”

w91 9/1 p. 29 par. 20 – JW’s are prophets

By our preaching and by our very presence, we are warning the wicked. (Ezekiel 33:33) [“And when it comes true—look! it must come true—they will also have to know that a prophet himself had proved to be in the midst of them.”]

w94 1/15 p. 16 par. 5 – JW’s are not prophets

“Today, that is no longer the case; there are no inspired prophets or apostles.”

g95 6/22 p. 9 Can You Trust God’s Promises? – JW’s are False prophets!!

Bible Students, known since 1931 as Jehovah’s Witnesses, also expected that the year 1925 would see the fulfillment of marvelous Bible prophecies. They surmised that at that time the earthly resurrection would begin, bringing back faithful men of old, such as Abraham, David, and Daniel. More recently, many Witnesses conjectured that events associated with the beginning of Christ’s Millennial Reign might start to take place in 1975. Their anticipation was based on the understanding that the seventh millennium of human history would begin then…

It is humans who are prone to error. Therefore, true Christians will maintain a waiting attitude in obedience to Jesus’ command. They will not allow false predictions to dull their senses and cause them to ignore the true warning of the world’s end.

w98 7/15 p.12 Beware of a Lack of Faith par. 15 – JW’s are prophets

“Paul started his warning with the provisional clause “if you people listen to his own voice.” God spoke to his people through Moses and other prophets. Then, Jehovah spoke to them through his Son, Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 1:1, 2) Today, we have God’s complete inspired Word, the Holy Bible. We also have “the faithful and discreet slave,” appointed by Jesus to provide spiritual “food at the proper time.” (Matthew 24:45-47) Thus, God is still speaking.”

w99 10/1 5 “For Everything There Is an Appointed Time” – The FDS are prophets

“For the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has revealed his confidential matter to his servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7) … For that purpose God has authorized a “faithful and discreet slave” to provide his people with “their [spiritual] food at the proper time.”

w01 8/1 p. 14 par. 8 Make Your Advancement Manifest

…he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus

Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.”

w10 7/15 p. 11 par. 18 “What Sort of Persons Ought You to Be!” – JW’s are prophets

“At the same time, Jehovah will honor his faithful servants by making it abundantly clear that they were, indeed, his representatives.—Read Ezekiel 2:5; 33:33.”

(Eze 2:5) And as for them, whether they will hear or will refrain—for they are a rebellious house— they will certainly know also that a prophet himself happened to be in the midst of them.

(Eze 33:33) And when it comes true—look! it must come true—they will also have to know that a prophet himself had proved to be in the midst of them.”

w11 3/15 p. 30 par. 10 – Anointed are prophets

“Like the prophet of old, the Jeremiah class has been given an assignment from the Sovereign of the universe. God’s anointed servants are thus duly authorized to make pronouncements worldwide…”

w14 11/15 p. 30 11 – FDS are prophets

“Revelation 11:3 speaks of two witnesses who would prophesy for 1,260 days… However, true to the words of the prophecy, at the end of the three and a half days, the two witnesses were brought back to life. Not only were these anointed ones released from prison but those who remained faithful received a special appointment from God through their Lord, Jesus Christ. In 1919 they were among those who were appointed to serve as a “faithful and discreet slave” to care for the spiritual needs of God’s people during the last days.”

2015 AGM – Geoffrey Jackson – FDS are prophets

“Jehovah always warns people before destruction comes. Back in 607 and prior to that time, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Daniel, they were all inspired to utter prophecies to warn persons. Well today is there a similar arrangement? We know there’s a small group of anointed ones that are taking the lead in feeding and warning Gods people.

w16 March p. 28 Imitate the Spirit of the Prophets – JW’s are not prophets “Although we are not prophets in the absolute sense…”

What cautionary lesson does the Bible give for following false prophets? (1Ki 13)

– w08 8/15 pp. 9-11 pars. 8-12 Maintain Loyalty With a Unified Heart

“A certain old prophet [Jadon] was dwelling in Bethel,” … the old man replies: “I too am a prophet like you, and an angel himself spoke to me by the word of Jehovah“… 9 Whatever might have been the old prophet’s motive, he lied. Perhaps the old man had at one time been a faithful prophet of Jehovah. At this point, however, he was acting deceptively.

10 The prophet from Judah should have been able to see through the ruse of the old prophet. He could have asked himself, ‘Why would Jehovah send an angel to someone else with new instructions for me?’ The prophet could have asked Jehovah to clarify the direction, but the Scriptures do not indicate that he did so. Jehovah was not pleased. 1 Ki. 13:19-25.

12 The Bible does not say why the younger prophet did not consult Jehovah before turning aside and eating and drinking with the older man. What lesson is there for us? We need to be absolutely convinced of the rightfulness of Jehovah’s requirements.

THE SHOWY DISPLAY OF ONES MEANS OF LIFE

(1 John 2:16) Everything in the world—the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one’s means of life—does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world.

• w94 8/15 p. 11 par. 3 This Good News Must Be Preached First

In stark contrast, news reports have time and again revealed many of the clergy in some lands to be pedophiles, immoral swindlers, and frauds. Their works of the flesh and their extravagant life-styles are manifest for all to see. One popular songwriter expressed it well in his song entitled “Would Jesus Wear a Rolex [a very expensive gold watch] on His Television Show?“

• w92 5/1 p. 16 par. 10 Who Will Escape the “Time of Distress”?

Christendom does not seek righteousness. Many of her adherents adopt or sponsor permissive lifestyles. Rather than seek meekness as Jesus did, they make a showy display, for example on television, of luxurious and often immoral living.

• g88 10/22 p. 31 Poverty, Wealth, and Religion

Through the ages the lavish wealth of religions that profess Christianity has disturbed many people. Popes, bishops, and other religious dignitaries have lived in splendor supported by their flocks, many of whom have existed in poverty. The situation has not changed in modern times.

“Christ,” the U.S. News & World Report observed recently, “was a humble man who eschewed the accumulation of material wealth.” Comparing his example with the life-styles of TV evangelists, this popular newsmagazine said: … Swaggart wears a $5,000 Rolex watch and lives on a 20-acre, $2.4 million estate protected by a brick wall and hidden cameras… When professed Christian leaders adopt opulent life-styles, might it not make others wonder about their credentials as Christ’s true followers?

• w83 6/15 p. 18 par. 12 Do Not ‘Turn Back to Weak and Beggarly Things’

Some think that a “showy display of one’s means of life” implies flaunting designer-name clothing or excessive jewelry, such as wearing four or five rings at the same time. (James 2:2, 3) And it may, for the Bible counsels against concentrating on adornments such as “gold ornaments.”

JW Broadcast Feb 2015 – “United in Spirit and in Thinking”:

WHO ARE THE HOUSE OF GOD WHERE JUDGEMENT WILL START (1PE 4:17)

• w13 7/15 p. 12 par. 7 “Look! I Am With You All the Days” the anointed ones
• w10 3/15 p. 22 par. 11 “The Righteous Ones Will Shine as Brightly as the Sun” those who claimed to be genuine Christians—whether they were actually “sons of the kingdom” or “sons of the wicked one.
• w07 4/1 p. 22 par. 4 Loyal to Christ and His Faithful Slave

Those claiming to represent God and his true worship (Christendom and the remnant) – w04 3/1 p. 17 par. 19 ‘The Faithful Slave’ Passes the Test!

Christ’s anointed brothers

• w04 3/1 p. 16 ‘The Faithful Slave’ Passes the Test! those claiming to serve Jehovah
• w99 2/1 p. 15 Our Treasure in Earthen Vessels renegade Christendom
• w97 5/15 p. 13 par. 15 When Jesus Comes in Kingdom Glory – Christendom
• w96 4/1 p. 18 par. 8 “Praise Jah, You People!” professed Christian organizations that has been apparent since “the last days” got under way – w95 10/15 p. 22 par. 22 How Will You Stand Before the Judgment Seat? – Christendom
• w93 5/1 p. 15 par. 2 Expanded Activities During Christ’s Presence anointed Christians
• w91 3/15 p. 30 Remain Solid in the Faith!

True Christians

• (1988) it-2 p. 622 Peter, Letters of

“Christians”

• (1988) it-2 p. 786 Resurrection those who belong to the Christ during his presence
• re chap. 25 p. 163 par. 7 Reviving the Two Witnesses the clergy of all of Christendom
• w83 10/1 p. 21 Do You Respect the Name of Christ?

Jesus own congregation—both those who had died prior to his return in Kingdom power and those still alive

• w83 5/1 p. 22 par. 18 Christians Meet Persecution With Endurance professed Christians
• w81 8/15 p. 29 par. 16 Serving Jehovah “Shoulder to Shoulder” children of the heavenly Jerusalem
• g79 6/8 p. 7 The Catholic Church as Italy Sees It the Catholic Church
• w78 9/1 p. 21 par. 5 A Resurrection of Life and One of Judgment spiritual sons of God
• w77 11/1 p. 666 par. 21 Our Spiritual Health and the Kidneys All the congregations
• w75 2/15 p. 111 The Wages of Disloyalty the “faithful and discreet slave” class – w74 9/15 p. 557 Is Christianity Dying? those anointed
• w74 6/1 p. 335 par. 5 Do You Have the Evangelizing Spirit? Christians
• w73 7/15 p. 428 Human Happiness Under Divine Government this corrupt world and all who hang onto it.
• w73 3/1 p. 146 par. 24 A Free People—but Obedient the true Christian congregation
• w72 12/15 p. 764 The God of Justice Will Act

Christendom

• w72 4/15 p. 251 Is Church Membership Enough?

the apostles

• w71 7/15 p. 431 par. 10 Deliverance from the Authority of Darkness those of the Christian congregation who had ‘proved faithful even to death.’ – w71 3/15 p. 173 par. 7 Persecution by Permission of Jehovah—Why? God’s people
• w71 8/15 p. 490 par. 21 Why Has God Allowed the Righteous to Suffer?

the existing systems in the world

• w67 10/1 p. 590 par. 19 Finding Freedom with Jehovah’s Visible Organization the anointed who were alive on earth in 1918
• w64 12/1 p. 729 par. 14 Out of the Tombs to a “Resurrection of Judgment” the 144,000
• w64 12/1 p. 730 par. 19 Out of the Tombs to a “Resurrection of Judgment” the Christian house of God
• w58 12/15 p. 757 par. 26 The Crucial Time for Staying Awake the religious clergy of Christendom
• w58 11/15 pp. 696-697 par. 12 Reading the Meaning of the Signs and Wonders

Christendom and the remnant of Jehovah’s anointed witnesses

• w58 8/1 p. 478 Questions From Readers the anointed
• w56 11/15 p. 679 Jehovah’s Judgment Days the congregation of God, the body of Christ, who have been “born again”
• w55 5/15 p. 315 par. 27 Christian Channel of Communication the remnant
• w54 9/1 p. 532 par. 13 Recognizing the Theocratic Organization for Life Jehovah’s people
• w52 6/1 p. 341 par. 1 Fixing Destinies in This Judgment Period the anointed remnant
• w51 9/15 p. 551 par. 12 Confidently Facing the End entire religious systems … of which we claim to be a part
• w51 4/1 p. 209 par. 14 Who Sees the New World’s King at the Temple? the remnant as well as Christendom
• w50 6/15 p. 183 par. 21 A Victory Dedicated to Jehovah’s Honor an anointed remnant

WOMEN CAN BE MINISTERIAL SERVANTS

YES – WT50 4/15 p.122 par.9 (based on ‘Dia’konos’ in Rom 16:1; 1Tim 3:8-11)

YES – Only if there are not enough brothers – WT64 4/1 p.208 par.10 (‘apparently’)

NO – km 1/76 p.5 par.2 (‘evidently’)

NO – Awake! 77 8/8 “Women in the Pulpit” p.27 par.7 (‘apparently’)

YES – but unofficially – WT80 9/15 p.23 par.10 (‘evidently’)

NO – WT81 3/15 “Female Ministers” p.18 (‘obviously’)

NO – Insight Vol 2 (1988) P.635 ‘Phoebe’. (‘evidently’)

Omit and ignore the problematic text – WT05 1/15 “Follow the course of hospitality” par.5 p.23 NO – WT07 1/15 “Women enjoy Fine Privileges” par.5 p.6

WHO ARE ‘ORDAINED MINISTERS’?

1. – All baptized persons – g95 5/22 p.22 ‘I Was Convinced I Had Found The Meaning Of Life’ par. 2
2. – All dedicated persons, even before baptism – w51 11/1 p.672 Questions From Readers
3. – All publishers – w52 1/1 p.18 par. 17
4. – All baptized persons – w54 3/1 ‘The Meaning of Baptism’ p.139
5. – All publishers – w55 12/15 p.742 par.6

1955 – All dedicated persons – w55 11/1 p.665 par.10 & 13 and p.670 par.27

1957 – All baptized persons – w57 8/15 p.487 ‘Recognised and Certified by Man’ par.4

1. – All publishers – w61 1/1 p.18 par.5
2. – All baptized persons – w62 10/15 p.626 ‘Who Ordains Jehovah’s Witnesses?’ par.1
3. – Only men with responsibilities in the cong – WT 75 12/1 p.733 par. 22
4. – Only men with responsibilities in the cong – 05/1976 KM Question Box

1981 – All baptized persons, specifically including women – w81 3/15 ‘Who Are God’s Ministers?’ p.15 par.3

1984 – All dedicated persons – Song Book (1984) Song 202 To God We Are Dedicated

1987 onwards – All baptized persons – w87 5/15 ‘Zealous at 70 Years of Age’ p.27 par.2

WAS ‘SAMUEL’ CORRECT WHEN HE TOLD SAUL HE WOULD DIE IN BATTLE (1 SAM 28:19)?

GRUDGINGLY, YES – w55 9/15 p. 565 pars. 15-16 Part 2—What Do the Scriptures Say… The spirit could reasonably predict defeat for Saul and death to him and his sons.

16 Whether the spirit’s prediction came true or not, the spirit was a “lying spirit”…

NO – w64 8/15 p. 506 Who Holds the Right to World Government?

Not “tomorrow,” as the demon incorrectly says, but a number of days later King Saul and three, not all, of his sons fall in battle at Mount Gilboa.

YES – w79 2/15 p. 6 Spiritistic Communication—Why Not? Did this prediction come true? Yes, but only in part.

NO – w88 1/15 p. 3 Do They Really Speak With the Dead? the next day Saul and his sons would be with “Samuel,” indicating that they would die while fighting

the Philistines. (1 Samuel 28:4-19) Is that what happened? Not exactly.

YES – (1991) si p. 57 pars. 25-26 Bible Book Number 9—1 Samuel

“Samuel” has no comforting message for the king. Tomorrow he will die…

26 Battle is now joined at Mount Gilboa. Israel suffers a disastrous defeat, and the Philistines get control of strategic areas of the land. Jonathan and other sons of Saul are slain, and the mortally wounded Saul kills himself with his own sword—a suicide.

WHO WILL WIN WW2?

AXIS POWERS – 1938 (Face the Facts) p.30 (While Germany is sweeping through Europe)

“The democracies of earth, and particularly Great Britain and America, are in great danger of totalitarian rule. The Roman Catholic Hierarchy of Authority, the Fascists and the Nazis are conspiring together to gain control and rule all the nations by dictators.”

NOONE – w41 12/1 p.360 (When Allies stop Germany moving West, but they continue moving East) “In fact, the prophecy does not disclose which one of these ”kings” shall be victorious in the present war, but the opinion is here expressed that neither one will have a complete victory.”

ALLIES – w42 5/15 (When Allies stop Nazi expansion East and West and deliver blows to Japan) “[The Pope] wants to save something of advantage out of any possible failure of his scheme for world domination. He is willing to compromise with the anti-Axis forces should they gain military victory. While so doing he can try to shield his totalitarian puppets against total ruin and undoing.”

WHO ARE THE “SEVEN SHEPHERDS, EIGHT DUKES” (MIC 5:5)

Remnant – w62 1/15 p. 51 par. 14 Like Dew from God and like a Lion Among Nations

Dedicated overseers – w68 3/15 p. 170 par. 8 True Worship Under Challenge

Elders – w93 1/1 p. 21 par. 13 Shepherding With Our Grand Creator

Capable men – w07 11/1 p. 16 par. 6 Highlights From the Books of Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah

Elders – w2013 11/15 p.20 par.16 Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes – What they mean for us Today

WHO ARE THE PRINCES AND WHEN DO THEY REIGN (ISA 32:1)?

Members of the Body of Christ, Future – w1879 July R11 p.4

Ancient Worthies, Future – w1904 Oct 15 R3445 p.313

Ancient Worthies and the Remnant, Future – w1937 March 15 p.88 para.31

Christ’s forefathers and the Ancient Worthies, Future – w1947 Oct 1 p.299 para. 42

Theocratic ‘officials’, Today – w51 12/1 p. 721 par. 19 “Princes Shall Rule in Justice”

‘Company servants’ and the F&DS, Today – w51 12/1 pp. 725 par. 6 Theocratic Organization Reestablished

Any theocratic men, Today – w54 9/1 p. 533 par. 17 Recognizing the Theocratic Organization for Life

Any appointed male, Today – w57 3/1 p. 153 par. 11 ‘Keep Watching the Ministry That You Fulfill It’

Ancient worthies, Future – w59 6/1 p. 334 par. 43 “Look! I Am Making All Things New”

All Faithful Men, Future – w66 3/1 p. 136 The Kingdom of God in the Hands of Christ Ancient Worthies, Future – w71 10/15 p. 635 Preparing for a New Order of Righteousness Elders, Today – w74 2/15 p. 103 Do People Find You “Mild-tempered and Lowly in Heart”?

Jesus Forefathers, Ancient Worthies and Armageddon Survivors, Future – w74 5/15 p. 292 Would You Want to Be There?

Remnant, Today – w74 6/1 p. 348 A Question Settled Never to Rise Again

Elders, Today – Mans Salvation (1975) chap. 19 p. 362 par. 26 From World Distress into a Peaceful “New Earth”

Resurrected ones, Future – w81 12/15 p. 19 par. 15 Hold Fast the “Good News”!

Responsible men, Today – w84 5/15 p. 16 par. 8 Empowered With Strength Beyond Normal Elders, Today – w89 9/15 p. 17 par. 9 Elders—Treat God’s Flock With Tenderness!

Jesus Forefathers and modern elders, Future – w14 2/15 p. 12 par. 17 Rejoice Over the Marriage of the Lamb!

Kenneth Flodin “A hiding Place From The Wind” 2016/03 WT video:

• Elders, Today (1:00) “Right now, in this time of world distress there’s a need for Princes, yes, elders”
• Not all elders and some faithful men of old, Future (1:20) “Who will the Princes be in the future, after Armageddon? Princes, Elders, who are of the other sheep, are being trained as a Chieftain class, so qualified ones from among them, so not all elders but from among them, will be ready for appointment to serve…”
• WT Officials (3:25) “…those who have been appointed as such at the start of the new world… So who will these be? Helpers of the Governing Body, Branch Committee members, Circuit overseers… “

WHO ARE THE STARS IN JESUS RIGHT HAND (REV 1:20) Satan’s ministers? – w57 5/15 p. 295 How Many Heavens?

Such ministers of Satan are the spiritual or religious counterpart of the stars referred to by Jesus at Revelation 1:20

The position of Congregation Overseer – w58 1/15 p. 49 par. 32 Overseers in Apocalyptic Times

Each star pictures the overseer or group of overseers placed in charge of each congregation of the anointed remnant.

Elders – w77 4/1 p. 212 “Shining as Illuminators in the World” elders, by loyal submission to Christ’s headship, remain as “stars” in his “right hand,”

Anointed elders – w79 4/15 p. 13 par. 5 Can You Have an Intimate Relationship with God? seven stars, or the body of anointed overseers

All elders – w93 1/1 p. 20 par. 10 Shepherding With Our Grand Creator

Jehovah has provided undershepherds to assist the Fine Shepherd, Christ Jesus, in caring for the flock. These are described at Revelation 1:16 as a complete number of “seven stars” in Jesus’ right hand.

The Governing Body? – w02 3/15 p. 14 pars. 6-7 Christ Leads His Congregation

But what about “the seven stars”? In the first place, they symbolized all the spirit-begotten, anointed overseers caring for the first-century congregations. … Now, however, the anointed overseers are few in number. ⁷ As in the first century, a small group of qualified men from among the anointed overseers now serve as the Governing Body, representing the composite faithful and discreet slave. Our Leader uses this Governing Body to appoint qualified men…

Erm…? – w12 12/15 p. 18 Do You Remember?

Who are represented by the “seven stars” in Jesus’ right hand mentioned at Revelation 1:16, 20? They represent spirit-anointed overseers in congregations, and thus, by extension, all overseers.

IT IS GOOD TO TAKE A VOW OF POVERTY OR OBEDIENCE?

NO – w53 9/15 p. 550 Is Monastery Life Christian?

And while swearing vows of obedience its abbots became dukes and sovereign princes… they coined money like feudal barons and lived in great state and dignity…

Nowhere, in either the Greek Scriptures or the Hebrew, do we find any basis for asceticism, as though denying ourselves the necessary comforts of life would bring favor with God.

NO – w62 1/1 p. 29 Do You Give God Exclusive Devotion?

Some take upon themselves vows of poverty to assist them in this matter… On the face of it, it might seem that this is an ideal way to give God exclusive devotion…

NO – g72 7/22 pp. 22-23 I Was a Catholic Nun

One day, disgusted, I said to my Superior General: “What I don’t understand is that our vow of poverty always allows us to receive, and the more the better. Yet it never allows us to give, not even a pin!” And Jesus said there was more happiness in giving!

NO – w73 10/1 p. 607 Questions From Readers vows of ‘chastity, poverty and obedience’ placed those vowing under obligation to the religious orders

and served those orders as a means of exercising control over their adherents.

YES – w90 12/1 p. 24 How Jehovah Prospers His Work

By law, the Society is a nonprofit corporation. There are no stockholders, no dividends, not even salaries. Each minister at headquarters, including the Society’s president and directors, has taken a legal vow of poverty. He receives food, shelter, and necessary medical care, as well as a small reimbursement of money for out-of-pocket expenses.

NO – g92 11/8 p. 12 The Jesuits—”All Things to All Men”?

The Making of a Jesuit

The four vows. There are three initial vows: poverty, chastity, and obedience. After 12 years, the Jesuit takes his fourth vow, pledging to “obey every instruction of the Pope of Rome.”

YES – w93 12/15 p. 13 par. 12 Trust in Jehovah!

Similarly at this day, the thousands that serve at the Watch Tower Society’s Bethel homes around the earth do so under a type of legal vow of poverty.

NO – w95 2/1 p. 6 Why Is It Time to Decide?

Reforms and counterreforms have also been promoted within the Catholic Church. From the 11th to the 13th century, in the face of the widespread corruption and immense wealth of the clergy, monastic orders that strictly followed the vow of poverty were formed.

YES – jv (1993) chap. 21 p. 351 How Is It All Financed?

Those who are accepted for special full-time service at the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses all subscribe to a vow of poverty, as have all the members of the Governing Body and all the other members of the Bethel family there.

WHEN DID THE HARVEST BEGIN?

1874 (10th of July) – Three Worlds (1877) p.30 Para. 3

And that time has already commenced, the harvest, or end of the aion [age] began on the tenth day of the seventh month in 1874.

1874 (October) – Millenial Dawn Vol 3 – (1902) p. 363 / Studies in the Scriptures Vol 3 (1924 p.363) we have found taught in the scriptures that the “harvest, the end of the age,” was reached in Oct 1874

1903 – w01 7/15 p. 12 par. 11 Be Joyful Harvest Workers!

the Watch Tower of May 15, 1903, urged harvest workers to distribute the tracts “from house to house”

1919 – w50 11/1 p. 406 par. 3 New Systems of Things

The harvest is a consummation of a system of things, and the reapers are angels… This separating work has been going on since A.D. 1919

1914 – w60 10/1 p. 606 The Great Wheat Harvest

What was foretold in the illustration of the great harvest has been taking place in our day, for we have been in the consummation of the system of things since A.D. 1914

1919 – w66 6/15 p. 374 Harvest, a Time of Happiness

In 1919 the harvest began when the remnant of the 144,000 of Kingdom heirs began to be freed from Great Babylon

1914 – w87 8/1 p. 19 par. 16 Christ’s Active Leadership Today harvesttime would come at “the conclusion of the system of things,” which began in 1914.

1919 – w93 5/1 p. 13 par. 11 Shedding Light on Christ’s Presence

Starting in 1919, angels under Jesus’ direction separated the wheat class of spirit-begotten anointed ones on earth

1914 – w00 10/15 p. 26 Working in the “Field”—Before the Harvest

Jesus’ arrival would mark the beginning of “the harvest” of wheatlike Christians. That would be a mark of the ‘conclusion of the system of things,’ which began in 1914.

1919 – w07 5/1 p. 30 Questions From Readers

In 1919 “the harvest of the earth,” including the gathering of the final ones of the anointed, began to be reaped

1914 – w13 7/15 p. 12 par. 9 “Look! I Am With You All the Days” That harvest season began in 1914

1914 AND 1919 – w13 7/15 p. 19 par. 17 Feeding Many Through the Hands of a Few the harvest season began in 1914… Then, starting in 1919, it was time to begin gathering the wheat.

1914 – w13 7/15 p. 22 par. 12 “Who Really Is the Faithful and Discreet Slave?” we need to go back to 1914—the beginning of the harvest season

WHERE DID JESUS DRIVE THE MONEY CHANGERS OUT FROM?

NAOS – w80 Aug 15 p.15 “For example, in the Bible account of where Jesus Christ drove the money changers and merchantmen out of Herod’s temple, the original Greek word used is na.os’.”

HEIRON – Matthew 21:12 “And Jesus entered into the temple [heiros]”

HEIRON – Mark 11:15 “…and Jesus having entered into the temple [heiros]…”

HEIRON – Mark 11:16 “And he did not allow that any carry vessels through the temple [heiros]…”

HEIRON – Luke 19:45 “And entering into the temple [heiros]…”

HEIRON – Luke 19:47 “And he was teaching by day in the temple [heiros]…”

HEIRON – John 2:14 “And he found in the temple [heiros]…”

HEIRON – John 2:15 “…he cast out all from the temple [heiros]…”

Note: The WT plain lied. None of the Scriptures from the Interlinear which discuss where Jesus drove the money changers from use the word naos, they all use the root word hieron (heiros).

WHO IS MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL?

An angel, not the Son of God – Zion’s Watch Tower 1879, November p.4

The Papacy – Zion’s Watch Tower 1879 December p.6

Jesus, not an angel – Zion’s Watch Tower March, 1883, p.456

The Pope of Rome – The Finished Mystery, 1917 p.188 and 1926 Edition, p.188

Jesus Christ, the Son of God – 1930’s onwards (see Reasoning From the Scriptures, 1985, p.218)

IS A RESURRECTION POSSIBLE FOR SUICIDE?

YES – Golden Age 1930 17/9 p.825 “Questions and Answers” by Judge Rutherford

It is not conceivable that a sane person would kill himself. At least, he must be temporarily insane. An insane person is not responsible for his deeds, and therefore the Lord would not hold him responsible.

NOT IF YOU WERE BAPTISED – w54 5/1 pp. 285-286 Questions From Readers

So if anyone who has dedicated his life to Jehovah God sanely takes his life in suicide, or deliberately murders another person, it is doubtful that Jehovah would remember such a person in the resurrection. However, in the case of a person that did not know Jehovah’s law and was not a dedicated servant of God it would be different. If he died a suicide or as a murderer he would certainly die guilty of grievous sin; but there are many other grievous sins, and for them repentance is possible.

WE DON’T KNOW – w59 7/15 p. 448 Questions From Readers

So nothing definite may be stated at the funeral in the way of a promise concerning the future life of the suicide.

YES – g90 9/8 p. 23 Suicides—A Resurrection?

Jehovah, having paid “a ransom in exchange for many,” is within his right to extend mercy, even to some self-murderers, by resurrecting them and giving them the precious opportunity to “repent and turn to God by doing works that befit repentance.”

IS PHRENOLOGY (FEELING THE BUMPS ON YOUR HEAD) RELIABLE?

YES – w1907 7/15 p.4028 The Human Brain Similarly Ordered

Without claiming that phrenology has reached a perfection of development… we may admit that phrenology so far as understood fully corroborates the picture given us in the arrangement of the tabernacle of Israel, surrounded by the camp.

YES – (1915) A Great Battle In The Ecclesiastical Heavens by Judge Rutherford. p. 55

“Professor David Dall, a noted Mental Scientist of the British Institute of Mental Science, for his own pleasure made a character sketch of Pastor Russell…:

Professor Dall’s Character Sketch (H.M.Phrenologist)

‘I have much pleasure in giving a sketch of the genial and fatherly head and physiognomy of Pastor Russell…

I find the head of Pastor Russell to be a large one, and the brain gifted with an uncommon degree of activity. A full basilar region is accompanied by the powerful endowment of the full moral, intellectual and spiritual nature. His physiognomy gives a large face, a large, broad nose with ample nostrils, large mouth and chin- all that the face can indicate of a powerful constitution he has… His eyes are large and stand out fully, which indicates a communicative disposition… He has great magnetic force, is full of electricity…’ “

NO – w1918 5/15 [6262] Interesting Letters I dropped Spiritism like a hot cake but too late.

An indefinite something began bothering me, affecting my mind. I next looked into Evolution, Reincarnation, New Thought, Palmistry, Phrenology, to drop them all as empty.

YES – g1925 2/25 p.333 para.4

It explains why the character of men can be described in terms of facial features, known as Physiognomy, or cranial characteristics with the scientific term of Phrenology, or even by the fingernails or by the palm, or by the spine, or by the feet. There are books published on each of these arts separately; and if we were only sufficiently intelligent we undoubtedly could determine what a person thinks or does chiefly, his qualifications, etc., merely from a piece of his skin, a hair, or a drop of blood. Abrams scientifically demonstrated this fact in many details, although experiments are as yet in their infancy. The body throughout tells our story of life; the vibrations show what we are, and do not lie.

IT’S AS RELIABLE AS THE BIBLE – g1925 2/25 What Is The Subconscious Mind p.488 para.5

The psychologists and psychoanalysts and physiognomists can all come to the Bible and to phrenology, and learn the truth about the matters which they have in hand; and they will do it, sooner or later. Of that there is not the least question. God is in no hurry, and the phrenologists are in no hurry.

NO, IT’S A FALSE BELIEF – w78 7/15 p. 17 The Human Brain—Three Pounds of Mystery

Some false beliefs have been removed, such as phrenology—the study of “character traits” by feeling bumps on the head. The shape of the skull is not determined by the shape of the cerebrum, nor is it possible to assign “character traits” to specific areas of the brain.

WHO ARE THE 10 VIRGINS (MATT 25)?

ANOINTED SINCE 1919 – w60 7/15 p. 437 The Awake “Faithful and Discreet Slave”

ANOINTED BEFORE 1919 – w74 8/15 p. 508 No Spiritual “Energy Crisis” for Discreet Ones ANOINTED SINCE 33C.E. – w74 8/15 p. 506 No Spiritual “Energy Crisis” for Discreet Ones ANOINTED SINCE 1919 – w81 3/1 p. 27 Do You Appreciate the “Faithful and Discreet Slave”?

ANOINTED BEFORE 1919 – w85 2/1 p. 17 par. 16 Seeing the “Sign” With Understanding

ANOINTED SINCE 33C.E. – w90 4/15 p. 8 The Wise and the Foolish Virgins

ANOINTED BEFORE 1914 – w04 3/1 p. 14 par. 6 ‘The Faithful Slave’ Passes the Test!

ANOINTED DURING THE LAST DAYS – w15 3/15 p. 13 par. 5 Will You “Keep on the Watch”?

WHEN WILL 6,000 YEARS BE UP?

1872 – Studies in the Scriptures, Vol. 2, p. 33, (1889)

“In this chapter we present the Bible evidence which indicates that six thousand years from the creation of Adam were complete with A.D. 1872; and hence that, since A.D. 1872 are chronologically entered upon the seventh thousand or the Millennium.”

1. – God’s Kingdom Has Approached (ka 1973) chap. 11 p. 187 par. 6 “Here Is the Bridegroom!” According to the Bible chronology that was thereafter adopted, the six thousand years of man’s existence on the earth ended in the year 1872 but the Lord Jesus did not come at the end of those six millenniums of human existence, rather, at the start of the antitypical Jubilee in October of 1874. The year 1874 was calculated as being the end of six millenniums of sin among mankind. From this latter date mankind was understood to be in the seventh millennium.—Revelation 20:4.

Note: Does this mean the WT once taught that Adam sinned in his second year? It appears so!

1. – The Time Is At Hand (1911) p. 39

Here we furnish the evidence that from the creation of Adam to A.D. 1873 was six thousand years.

1873 – Proclaimers (jv 1993) chap. 28 pp. 631-632 Testing and Sifting From Within

It was only natural that they should wonder when and how these things would occur. Did the inspired

Scriptures provide any clues? Using Bible chronology that had first been laid out by Christopher Bowen of England, they thought that 6,000 years of human history had ended in 1873

1972 – The Truth Shall Set You Free (1943) p. 152

“Adams creation to the end of 1943 is 5,971 years. We are therefore near the end of 6,000 years of human history.”

Note: add another 29 years to make it to 6,000 years, and we arrive at 1943 + 29 = 1972.

Mid Seventies – w44 9/15 p.280 par.28

[Urging the brothers to remain active] They do not say, ‘It is a long time yet to the wind-up, and according to the present understanding of Bible chronology, six thousand years of human history will end first in the coming seventies and till then it is a long stretch to serve the Lord continuously and undividedly.’

1976 – w55 2/1 p. 95 Questions From Readers

However, from our present chronology (which is admitted imperfect) at best the fall of the year 1976 would be the end of 6,000 years of human history for mankind

1975 – Life Everlasting in Freedom… (1966), p. 29-30

According to this trustworthy Bible chronology six thousand years from man’s creation will end in 1975, and the seventh period of a thousand years of human history will begin in the fall of 1975 C.E Six thousand years of man’s existence on earth will soon be up, yea within this generation. The rein of Christ…to run parallel with the 7th millennium…

1. or 1975 – Aid To Bible Understanding (1971) p. 1100

According to Bible chronology, 6,000 years of mans history will end about 1974 or 1975 CE

1. – w89 8/1 p. 10 par. 2 God Purposes That Man Enjoy Life in Paradise

To recognize that, look back at the newly created Adam when he first received consciousness, when he examined his own body and all that he saw and heard and felt around him, when he realized with a start that he was alive! This occurred some 6,000 years ago, in the year 4,026 before our Common Era

WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE BOOK OF GENESIS

ADAM – w55 5/15 p. 306 par. 18 Jehovah’s Channel of Communication Adam was also the writer of the second Bible document, Genesis 2:5 to 5:2

ADAM, NOAH, SHEM, ISAAC, JACOB – w52 11/1 pp. 646-647 par. 4 Basis for Believing the Bible

In fact, archaeology indicates that Adam wrote, and along with others such as Noah, Shem, Isaac and Jacob provided written documents from which Moses compiled the book of Genesis

ONLY MOSES – w58 3/15 p. 190 Questions From Readers

Jesus and his apostles plainly tell us that the book of Genesis was written by the one inspired writer, the prophet Moses.

ADAM – w59 6/1 p. 326 par. 8 “Look! I Am Making All Things New”

Adam wrote down “a history of the heavens and the earth in the time of their being created” (Gen. 1:1 to 2:4) and “the book of Adam’s history”

MOSES – w60 10/1 p. 590 par. 22 The Holy Bible—the Book by Jehovah’s Witnesses

In the first five books of the Bible which [Moses] wrote, from Genesis through Deuteronomy

UNSPECIFIED OTHERS – w63 8/1 p. 459 par. 10 Religion and the Nuclear Age

[Moses] edited the earliest human writings, compiling them into what is now known as the Bible book of Genesis.

MOSES – w69 4/15 p. 248 Get to Know Your Bible

In the historic section Moses wrote the first five books (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers,

Deuteronomy)

UNSPECIFIED OTHERS – w77 3/1 p. 134 A Man with the Courage to Speak Up Moses who compiled the Genesis account

MOSES – w91 6/1 p. 3 The Bible—Is It Really Holy?

The writing of Genesis, the first book of the Bible, is traditionally credited to Moses

WE DON’T KNOW – w97 6/15 p. 7 How Did God Inspire the Bible?

Moses wrote the Bible book of Genesis, but everything he recorded took place long before his birth… It could be that the information contained in the book of Genesis was obtained by all three of the above methods—some by direct revelation, some by oral transmission, and some from written records.

WILL UNBORN BABIES WHO DIE BE RESURRECTED?

NO – w69 4/1 p. 224 Questions From Readers

The examples in the Bible of persons raised to human life again indicate that the person comes back to life with the same degree of physical and mental growth possessed at death. (2 Ki. 4:17-36; Acts 20:9-12) Applying that to miscarriages and stillborn deliveries, is it reasonable that in the future Jehovah will insert back into the womb of a woman a partially developed embryo, or possibly a number of them? No, that does not seem so, nor is it likely that women who have had this sad experience actually expect that.

Even a child who lives for only a short time after birth has existed as a separate person. But a miscarried fetus or stillborn child, though from a Biblical standpoint considered a “soul” while it was developing, never actually lived as a separate and distinct individual. So it would appear that such situations do not fall under the resurrection provision outlined in the Bible. We fully appreciate that this view might be most disappointing to some.

WE DON’T KNOW /MAYBE – w09 4/15 pp. 12-13 Questions From Readers

Is there any hope of a resurrection for a baby that dies in its mother’s womb?

The simple answer to the question is that we do not know. The Bible never directly addresses the matter of a resurrection for babies who were stillborn or lost through a miscarriage.

The Mosaic Law clearly revealed that life begins, not at birth, but much earlier. It showed that killing a fetus could incur the death penalty.

On the whole, does the Bible give us a basis for drawing a big distinction between a baby in the womb and one that has drawn its first breath? It does not seem so.

To summarize, then, the Bible clearly teaches that life begins at conception and that Jehovah sees the unborn child as a unique and valued individual.

In the past, this journal has raised some practical questions that seem to cast doubt on the possibility of a resurrection for children who died before birth. For example, would God implant even a partially developed embryo in the womb of a woman in Paradise? However, further study and prayerful meditation has led the Governing Body to conclude that such considerations do not really have a bearing on the resurrection hope.

IS CHESS A SAFE GAME TO PLAY?

NO – g73 3/22 p. 14 Chess—What Kind of Game Is It?

Some chess players have recognized the harm that can result from playing the game.

The extreme fascination of chess can result in its consuming large amounts of one’s time and attention to the exclusion of more important matters. Also, in playing it there is the danger of “stirring up competition with one another,” even developing hostility toward another, something the Bible warns Christians to avoid doing.

Then, too, grown-ups may not consider it proper for children to play with war toys, or at games of a military nature… What effect does playing chess really have upon one? Is it a wholesome effect? Surely chess is a fascinating game. But there are questions regarding it that are good for each one who plays chess to consider.

YES – g79 1/22 p. 10 Playing Indoor Games

And, of course, chess is another board game that has long provided many persons much pleasure.

NO – g94 1/22 p. 29 Watching the World

There is growing concern that such amusement encourages violence. University of Calgary sociology professor Robert Stebbins said in The Globe: “There is a fuzzy line between war games considered problematic and those considered acceptable, such as chess with its castles and armies. The intent is violent.” One teenage player said: “It seems kind of weird to promote a game for pleasure that is associated with war. . . . When you think of the message this gives, it doesn’t seem right.”

YES – g96 9/22 p. 22 How Can I Have a Good Time?

What are some things you can do at a gathering—besides simply watching TV, listening to music, or conversing? “We usually plan the evening in advance,” says Sanchia. “We’ve played games or had someone play the piano, so we could sing songs together.” An African youth named Masene says: “We sometimes play cards, draughts [checkers], and chess.”

JOHANNES GREBER (SPIRITUALIST) IS A QUOTABLE SOURCE FOR THE WTBTS

NO – w55 10/1 p. 603 par. 33 Part 3—What Do the Scriptures Say About “Survival After Death”?

It comes as no surprise that one Johannes Greber, a former Catholic clergyman, has become a spiritualist and has published the book entitled “Communication with the Spirit World, Its laws and Its Purpose.” (1932, Macoy Publishing Company, New York)

NO – w56 2/15 p. 110 par. 10 Triumphing over Wicked Spirit Forces

Says Johannes Greber in the introduction of his translation of The New Testament (1937): “I myself was a Catholic priest, and until I was forty-eight years old had never as much as believed in the possibility of communicating with the world of God’s spirits. The day came, however, when I involuntarily took my first step toward such communication, and experienced things that shook me to the depths of my soul.

YES – w62 9/15 p. 554 par. 5 “The Word”—Who Is He? According to John

Similar is the reading* by a former Roman Catholic priest: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god. This was with God in the beginning. Everything came into being through the Word, and without it nothing created sprang into existence.” (John 1:1-3)

*The New Testament—A New Translation and Explanation Based on the Oldest Manuscripts, by Johannes Greber (a translation from German into English), edition of 1937.

YES – w75 10/15 p. 640 Questions From Readers

Thus the translation by Johannes Greber (1937) renders these verses: “Tombs were laid open, and many bodies of those buried there were tossed upright. In this posture they projected from the graves and were seen by many who passed by the place on their way back to the city.”

YES – w76 4/15 p. 231 Insight on the News

A report in the Bible, as translated by Johannes Greber, says that when Jesus died, “the earth quaked, and the rocks were shattered…”

NO – w83 4/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers

As indicated in a foreword to the 1980 edition of The New Testament by Johannes Greber, this translator relied on “God’s Spirit World” to clarify for him how he should translate difficult passages. It is stated: “His wife, a medium of God’s Spiritworld was often instrumental in conveying the correct answers from God’s Messengers to Pastor Greber.” The Watchtower has deemed it improper to make use of a translation that has such a close rapport with spiritism. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) The scholarship that forms the basis for the rendering of the above-cited texts in the New World Translation is sound and for this reason does not depend at all on Greber’s translation for authority. Nothing is lost, therefore, by ceasing to use his New Testament.

Note: If in 1956 the WT realized he was communicating with spirits, why did they continue to print his demonic thoughts from 1962 until 1983?

GHANDI IS QUOTABLE

YES – w58 3/1 p. 139 A Hindu’s Solution

Taking up a little book from the nearby lampstand, Gandhi opened it to the fifth chapter of Matthew and replied, ‘When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.’

YES – w59 6/1 p. 326 par. 7 “Look! I Am Making All Things New”

Even the great Hindu sage Mahatma Gandhi once told the British viceroy of India: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon of the Mount, we shall have solved the problems, not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – Look! booklet (1970) p. 5 par. 7 “Look! I Am Making All Things New”

Even the great Hindu sage Mahatma Gandhi once told the British viceroy of India: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon of the Mount, we shall have solved the problems, not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – w75 4/15 p. 251 Jesus Christ—A Historical Personage

Coming to modern times, Mahatma Gandhi, the Hindu ‘father’ of the nation of India, once stated to Lord Irwin, former viceroy of India: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems, not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – gh (1976) chap. 4 p. 30 par. 2 A Practical Guide to True Happiness

Taking up a little book from the nearby lampstand, Gandhi opened it to the fifth chapter of Matthew and replied, ‘When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.’

YES – w81 11/1 p. 26 Matthew Proclaims: ‘The Messiah Has Come!’ it is reported that Mahatma Gandhi said to a onetime viceroy of India, Lord Irwin: “When your country

and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in the Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – Look! brochure (1986) pp. 5-6 par. 7 “Look! I Am Making All Things New”

Even the great Hindu sage Mohandas K. Gandhi once told the British viceroy of India: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems, not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – w86 10/1 p. 16 par. 2 Peace From God—When?

Previously, in 1931, Gandhi had told a British viceroy: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

YES – si (1990) p. 180 par. 30 Bible Book Number 40—Matthew the Hindu leader Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi, who is reported to have said to Lord Irwin, a former

viceroy of India: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.”

NO – yb11 pp. 11-12 Highlights of the Past Year

At times, though, even a seemingly reputable source may fail to corroborate details adequately. For example: Gandhi has been quoted as saying at his ashram (religious retreat) to Lord Irwin: “When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world.” However, a thorough investigation of this statement revealed that there is no evidence that Lord Irwin ever visited Gandhi at his ashram, raising unanswered questions about where, when, and whether Gandhi made this statement. Hence, our publications do not use this particular quote anymore.

Note: So for over 50 years we were teaching using a false quotation? How thorough are the writing committee?

SHOULD WE LOOK TO TATIAN’S WRITINGS?

YES – w10 3/1 p. 11 Why You Can Trust the Biblical Gospels

The Syrian writer Tatian (about 110-180 C.E.) came to the defense of the Gospels. He felt that any apparent contradictions would disappear if the Gospels were skillfully harmonized and blended into one account instead of four.

NO – w10 6/1 p. 30 The Apologists—Christian Defenders or Would-Be Philosophers?

Tatian, for example, denounced the philosophers for accomplishing nothing good but, at the same time, called the Christian religion “our philosophy” and indulged in philosophical speculations.

NO – g90 4/8 p. 12 What Was the Original Sin?

WHAT was the original sin? “Sex,” many people will answer. They believe that the forbidden fruit in the garden of Eden was a symbol of sexual relations and that Adam and Eve sinned by committing a sexual act.

The idea is not new. According to historian Elaine Pagels, “the claim that Adam and Eve’s sin was to engage in sexual intercourse” was “common among such [second-century] Christian teachers as Tatian the Syrian, who taught that the fruit of the tree of knowledge conveyed carnal knowledge.”

YES – si p. 176 par. 5 Bible Book Number 40—Matthew

From as far back as Papias of Hierapolis (early second century C.E.) onward, we have a line of early witnesses to the fact that Matthew wrote this Gospel and that it is an authentic part of the Word of God. McClintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia states: “Passages from Matthew are quoted by Justin Martyr, by the author of the letter to Diognetus (see in Otto’s Justin Martyr, vol. ii), by Hegesippus, Irenæus, Tatian, Athenagoras, Theophilus, Clement, Tertullian, and Origen. It is not merely from the matter, but the manner of the quotations, from the calm appeal as to a settled authority, from the absence of all hints of doubt, that we regard it as proved that the book we possess had not been the subject of any sudden change.”

YES – w04 9/15 p. 30 A Look at the Chester Beatty Treasures

Beatty discovered Ephraem’s commentary on Tatian’s Diatessaron—a discovery that added to the existing evidence of the Bible’s authenticity and truthfulness.

NO – w03 5/15 p. 29 Tatian—Apologist or Heretic?

Why did Tatian deviate so far from the Scriptures? Did he become “a forgetful hearer”? Did Tatian fail to turn down false stories and thereby fall prey to human philosophy? Since the errors he subscribed to were so great, could some mental aberration be suspected?

YES – w97 8/15 p. 10 Part One—How the Bible Came to Us

Tatian, a student of Justin Martyr, produced the Diatessaron, a composite account of Jesus’ life compiled from the same four Gospels found in our present Bibles. This indicated that he considered only those Gospels to be authentic and that they were already in circulation.

YES – w68 9/1 p. 517 Is Your Soul Immortal?

Tatian, a Christian writer who lived during the last part of the second century, wrote: “O Greeks! The soul is not by itself immortal . . . it dies and dissolves with the body, when it does not know the truth . . . if therefore it rests isolated from the light, it sinks into the matter and dies with the flesh.”² Tatian, too, would have been in direct contradiction with modern religious teaching.

YES – w63 4/15 p. 249 Early Catalogues and the Christian Greek Scripture Canon

A unique work of the second century was Tatian’s “Diatessaron,” meaning “of the four.” This was an early harmony, weaving together into one narrative the various sections of the four canonical Gospels. This again indicates the acceptance of the four as a collection and testifies to their undisputed authority as the authentic record of Jesus’ life and words.

WHAT IS “THE SIN THAT EASILY ENTANGLES US” (HEB 12:1)?

entanglement with old world pursuits – w56 6/1 p. 341 par. 15 Keep Pace with the New World Society distractions, possessions – w58 9/15 p. 565 par. 20 Keep Your Eyes on the Prize lack of faith – w59 5/1 p. 267 par. 25 Break Free to Do the “Complete Will of God” lack of self control – w67 7/1 p. 405 par. 17 Self-Control Vital to Progress loss of faith – w89 7/15 p. 15 par. 18 Live a Balanced, Simple Life fear of men – w90 8/1 p. 20 par. 16 Do You Appreciate What God Has Done? lack of faith – w92 4/1 p. 16 Do You Have Faith Like Elijah’s? the world’s immorality, and its snares – w96 2/1 p. 8 What Must We Do to Be Saved?

lack of faith – w09 5/1 p. 8 4 Face Your Doubts carelessness or overconfidence or some distraction – w11 9/15 p. 22 par. 10 “Run That You May Attain It” lack of faith – w15 11/15 p. 15 para. 7 “Stand Firm in the Faith”

WHO DOES ROMANS 10:13 REFER TO?

Rom 10:13 (NWT) “For everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah [kurios] will be saved.”

Up to 1950 – Jesus: wt Nov 1884 p.5 “Ransom and Testimony…”

That the man Christ Jesus gave himself a ransom for all, is a stupendous fact; but it has no moral power except where it is known. Paul puts this matter beyond a doubt. “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Rom. 10:13-17.)

1950 – A deliberately confusing mix when they changed ‘Lord’ to ‘Jehovah’ in the NWT: w50 7/1 p. 204 Steps Toward Life

He seeks protection at the hand of Christ Jesus and calls upon the Lord God for protection and salvation: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Rom. 10:13)

After 1950 – Jehovah: w50 10/15 p. 397 par. 24 Further Enrichment of Understanding

For ‘everyone that calls upon the name of Jehovah will be saved’.” (NW)… Hence, to be saved, it is upon the name of Jehovah that we must call, for he is the One that raised the Lord Jesus from the dead.

1978 – Back to Jesus: w78 5/1 p. 12 Theologians Stumble Over God’s Name

There are verses in the Hebrew Scriptures about Jehovah that are quoted in the “New Testament” in a context speaking about the Son. (Rom. 10:13)

1978 – Two weeks later it’s Jehovah again:

w78 5/15 p. 17 Creation Tells of God’s Glory

Paul quotes from Joel 2:32 when saying, “everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved,” (Rom. 10:13-15)

OK TO RE-USE RELIGIOUS BUILDINGS FOR K.HALLS?

YES: — w02 10/15 p. 27 Questions From Readers

Would it be a form of interfaith to purchase a building from another religious group and convert it into a Kingdom Hall?

[Picture on page 27] This building, which was a synagogue, was purchased and renovated into a Kingdom Hall

NO: — w99 3/15 p. 25 Par.6 Building on Pagan Foundation

AMONG the many impressive monuments that are visited by tourists to Rome, Italy, is the Pantheon. The Pantheon was originally a pagan temple, a “place for all gods,” which is the meaning of the original Greek word. Today, it is still considered a Roman Catholic church.

It ought to be obvious, however, that changing the dedication of a temple or the name of a celebration is not sufficient to transform the ‘worship of devils into the service of the true God.’ “What agreement does God’s temple have with idols?” asked the apostle Paul. “‘Get out from among them, and separate yourselves,’ says Jehovah, ‘and quit touching the unclean thing’

YES: — g96 9/8 p. 31 Why the Chapels Are Closing

The list serves as an epitome of the collapse of religion’s influence, not only in Wales but in many parts of Europe. Sixty-eight chapels were listed as “now demolished.” One that was not listed, in Penygraig, was converted many years ago into a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses for the flourishing Rhondda Congregation.

YES: — jv (1993) chap. 16 p. 251 Meetings for Worship, Instruction, and Encouragement

In a few instances, they later purchased buildings that had formerly been used by other religious groups and made use of these on a regular basis. That was the case with the Brooklyn Tabernacle and the London Tabernacle.

YES: — yb78 p. 117 The Philippines

The chapel was converted into a Kingdom Hall and this was the start of the Biñan Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

YES – (From the Guardian newspaper, 11 September 2012)

“The Berwick Watchtower, a brand new gallery and arts centre, has just opened in Tweedmouth. Originally built as a Presbyterian church in 1848, the turreted building on the south bank of the Tweed was, more recently (1972), the Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, who blocked up all the windows.”

Summary: It is ok for JW’s to convert a religious building into a Kingdom Hall, but it is not ok for any other religion to convert a religious building for themselves.

THE CORRECT VIEW OF ELABORATE PLACES OF WORSHIP

BAD – w53 5/1 p. 260 Why Maturity Is Lacking

To help fill in the spiritual vacuum imposing cathedrals are built, lavishly furnished with pipe organs, stained-glass windows and other works of art, and choirs are trained.

BAD – w67 4/15 p. 245 The Most Urgent Warning Ever Given

Look at the rich cathedrals ornamented with the finest of materials and precious things, while around many of them the people are in abject poverty and illiteracy.

BAD – g70 5/22 p. 21 Eye-catching Architecture—Ancient and Modern

That all of these mighty structures, ancient and modern, have the effect of flattering the vanity of the wealthy and powerful while also awing the lower classes into silence and obedience, is something that becomes obvious to the observant.

BAD – w82 9/15 p. 19 par. 7 High Time to Flee!

This she [Christendom] claims to be her spiritual right. Her domain includes also costly cathedrals, bejeweled altars, priceless stained-glass windows, landed properties and huge bank accounts.

GOOD – g85 10/22 A Historic Landmark Becomes an Assembly Hall for Jehovah’s Witnesses

As I watched the construction progressing at the Stanley Theater in Jersey City, I saw a determination that no price was too high to pay for their special ideals.

[Pictures on page 25] Murals of Bible scenes, painted by members of the Watchtower headquarters staff, replaced ones that depicted scenes from mythology. Above is the scene of Jehonadab stepping up into

Jehu’s chariot. To the right are the horsemen of Revelation chapter 6

[Pictures on p. 26] Chandeliers, stained-glass windows, and cornices… and painting of the ceiling

GOOD – g85 10/22 p. 25 A Historic Landmark Becomes an Assembly Hall for Jehovah’s Witnesses

WHEN the new Stanley Theater was opened in Journal Square, Jersey City, on March 24, 1928, it was one of the largest in the United States. Its beauty drew high praises, particularly its exquisite interior with its Italian facade. “If you have ever traveled to Italy, . . . where the picturesque villas and colorful courts remind us of the artistic glory that was Rome’s,” noted one early reporter, “then you can have an inkling of the interior of this new Stanley Theatre.”

GOOD – g85 10/22 p. 27 A Historic Landmark Becomes an Assembly Hall for Jehovah’s Witnesses

Not only has its former glory been restored but it has been enhanced. Its greatest function now will be its use to reflect the glory of the Sovereign Lord and Creator of the universe, Jehovah God.

GOOD – yb87 p. 3 1987 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses

First, there was the dedication, on Saturday, September 7, 1985, of the Jersey City Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, known locally as the former Stanley Theater… Joy overflowed not only at hearing and seeing the excellent spiritual programs there presented but also at having such a beautiful structure to use in praising Jehovah God.

GOOD – w87 12/1 p. 22 Graduation of the 83rd Gilead Class Truly a Festive Occasion

The graduation took place September 6, 1987, at the beautiful Jersey City Assembly Hall, formerly known as the Stanley Theater.

BAD – w88 4/1 p. 16 par. 5 Christendom Exposed as the Promoter of False Worship

They love to exalt their cathedrals, basilicas, temples, and churches, boasting about their antiquity and their architecture, as if these gave them some special standing with God. They even say that their religious edifices were built ‘to the glory of God.’

BAD – g01 6/8 p. 15 Cathedrals—Monuments to God or Men?

Jesus Christ never suggested that his followers construct elaborate houses of worship. He urged true worshipers to “worship with spirit and truth.” (John 4:21-24) In spite of their beauty, Christendom’s mighty cathedrals stand in contradiction to this principle. They may be monuments to the men who built them, but they fail to glorify God.

BAD – g02 2/8 p. 30 From Our Readers

“Awake!” responds: We criticized the building of cathedrals not simply because they are big but because the driving force in building them was often what one historian called the “arrogant pride” of religious leaders. Also, financing these huge structures often worked an extreme hardship on parishioners. By way of contrast, Kingdom Halls and Assembly Halls are modest structures that are not built to bring praise to any humans. Rather, they serve as places of worship. These halls are financed by voluntary contributions and do not impose an unreasonable financial burden upon anyone.

GOOD – Jan 2018 Broadcast (Gerrit Losch) – Dedication talk “Yes, our headquarters bring glory to Jehovah.

These headquarters facilities and related buildings were built to glorify and praise Jehovah.” SHOULD WE ‘BLINDLY OBEY’?

NO – w63 2/1 p. 73 par. 3 Conduct “Worthy of the Good News”

And as we consider these commands of God, it is not just blind obedience that is required but, rather, seeking with ‘our whole mind and heart’ to understand and appreciate why God tells us to do this or that, or not to do a certain thing, so that we may serve him with understanding

NO – w63 5/1 p. 283 Unquestioning Obedience

… bishop of the Ogdensburg Diocese, New York, told delegates to the 67th annual state convention of the Knights of Columbus that Catholics should obey church orders without question. Quoting a Catholic scholar, he said: “If you believe something is white and the church says it is black, believe it is black.”

NO – Awake! 78 8/22 p.4

“Pr 14:15 states: “A simple man believes every word he hears; a clever man understands the need for proof.” (New English Bible) So each individual must choose what he will feed his mind. Whatever you read or watch or listen to, test whether it is propaganda or whether it is the truth. Will you let others think for you, or will you do your own thinking? Do your own, and “thinking ability itself will keep guard over you.””

NO – w89 1/15 p. 6 Are You Open to New Ideas?

Rather than blindly accepting every new idea presented to us, we need to do careful and exact research, just as a judge would in hearing a legal case.

NO – g90 10/22 p. 25 Part 6—Blackshirts and Swastikas

Fascist states are designed to exercise [authority] to the utmost, demanding blind obedience. Viewing humans as little more than slaves of the State, Treitschke said: “It does not matter what you think, so long as you obey.” Fascism replaced the cry, “Liberty, equality, fraternity,” … with the Italian slogan, “To believe, to obey, to fight.” (Note: Is this similar to “Listen, Obey and be blessed!”?)

NO – w94 8/1 p. 14 par. 19 Jehovah Is Reasonable!

He never requires blind obedience of his creatures, but usually he provides sufficient information to guide them and puts the choice before them

YES – w98 7/15 p. 31 Do You Have “an Obedient Heart”?

We are being taught so well that it is as if we hear a voice behind us saying: “This is the way. Walk in it, you people.” As Jehovah teaches us through the Bible, Christian publications, and congregation meetings, may we pay attention, apply what we learn, and be “obedient in all things.”

NO – w04 7/1 p. 9 par. 6 ‘Go and Make Disciples’

Jesus did not require blind obedience. He gave the men a convincing reason why they should obey him.

YES – w07 12/15 p. 19 par. 15 “Stand Firm and See the Salvation of Jehovah” we must obey Jehovah no matter what he asks us to do. … Today, it is so important that we follow the

guidance that comes to us through “the faithful and discreet slave”! … 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.

NO – g 2/2010 p. 20 From SS Officer to Servant of the True God

I also see clearly the vast difference between serving tyrannical regimes, such as Hitler’s, and serving Jehovah. The former demand blind obedience, whereas Jehovah wants us to serve him out of love based on an accurate knowledge of his personality and purposes as revealed in the Bible.

YES – w11 (simplified) Jul 15 p.24 par.9

We need to obey the faithful and discreet slave to have Jehovah’s approval.

YES – w13 11/15 p. 20 par. 17 Seven Shepherds, Eight Dukes—What They Mean for Us Today

All of us must be ready to obey any instructions we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not.

YES – w16 Feb p.11-12 Para 14 “Jehovah called him My Friend”

What about us? True, God does not make such requests of us today. But he does ask us to obey him even when his commands are hard for us to comply with or we cannot comprehend the reasons for them.

YES – w17 Jun para. 15 “Uphold Jehovah God’s Sovereignty”

What is our response to divinely authorized headship? By our respectful cooperation, we show our support for Jehovah’s sovereignty. Even if we do not fully understand or agree with a decision, we will still want to support theocratic order. That is quite different from the way of the world, but it is the way of life under Jehovah’s rulership.

INDEPENDENT THINKING

Is Bad – w52 8/15 p. 501 Individual Bible study, certainly! Independent Bible study, beware! Is Good – w57 8/1 p.469 par.7 “Moreover, people today are developing an aversion to thinking. Their thinking must be channelled for them, ready-made by propagandists. This suits Satan’s purpose.” Is Good – w58 8/1 p.460 “Irish people do very little independent thinking. They are victims of the clergy and fear”

Is Bad – w60 2/15 p.106 par.6 “it follows that one should reject the goal of independent thinking” Is Good – w72 3/15 P.170 par.7 “independent thinking … is why you are capable of exercising the fine qualities of love and loyalty, of devotion and integrity. That is why you are also capable of understanding what God has revealed in his Word “

Is Bad – w77 10/1 p.605 “Adam’s selfish thinking and action distorted his way. He set out his own independent course, becoming an enemy of God, and brought his own way and that of his family “to ruin.” Yes, with sin and imperfection ruling, and with each going his independent way, no one knows what may befall him,”

Is Good – Awake! 78 8/22 p.4 “Proverbs 14:15 states: “A simple man believes every word he hears; a clever man understands the need for proof.” (The New English Bible) So each individual must choose what he will feed his mind. Whatever you read or watch or listen to, test whether it is propaganda or whether it is the truth. Will you let others think for you, or will you do your own thinking? Do your own, and “thinking ability itself will keep guard over you.””

Is Bad – w79 2/15 p.20 par.18 “Jehovah’s people need to be stable, full-grown Christians. Their position must be steadfast, not shifting quickly because of independent thinking “

Is Good – Awake! 80 1/8 p.13 “The person most easily brainwashed is the “normal,” average individual. Such a one is already conditioned to accept opinions of others rather than to form strong convictions of his own. On the other hand, those hardest to brainwash are ones with unconventional ideas and strong convictions and who are not afraid of what others think.” Is Bad – w83 p.27 section heading “Fight Against Independent Thinking” par.22 says it’s “demonic” Is Good – KM 3/95 p.6 par.17 “it is highly valuable to learn how to think. The Bible commends thinking ability and practical wisdom. (Prov. 1:4; 3:21) Learning how to think and retain information enables you to acquire knowledge and skills that will be useful to you and to Jehovah’s worldwide organization. “

Is Bad – w98 5/15 p.26 “Perhaps we are overly sensitive. We may be nursing a grievance, or we may be placing too much emphasis on independence. Thus, our Christian progress may be limited.” Is Good – Awake! 99 1/8 p.11 “The magazine UNESCO Courier suggests that instead of fostering rejection of religious movements, “education for tolerance should aim at countering influences that lead to fear and exclusion of others, and should help young people to develop capacities for

independent judgement, critical thinking and ethical reasoning.””

Is Bad – w06 7/15 P.22 Par.14

“Pride may play a role, and some fall into the trap of independent thinking” Is Bad – w11 7/15 p. 28 par. 17 God’s Rest—What Is It?

On the other hand, if we minimized the Bible-based counsel that we receive through the faithful and discreet slave class, choosing to follow an independent course, we would be placing ourselves at odds with God’s unfolding purpose.

Is Good – w13 15/10 p.8 par. 4 Creation Reveals the Living God

To build strong faith in God, we must first be convinced that Jehovah exists. We arrive at that conclusion not by wishful thinking but by examining the facts and using our “power of reason.” p.8 par. 4 Creation Reveals the Living God

p.11 par.17 Like the brochure Was Life Created?, this publication encourages young ones to develop their “thinking ability.”

w01 8/1 p. 14 par. 8 goes so far as to say that you can’t even harbour private doubts:

He does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding. Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.”

– It seems the Watchtower doesn’t like independent thinking as much as the more public Awake! does !

In fact one WT went so far as to say

w67 6/1 p. 338 par. 12 Move Ahead with Jehovah’s Organization

“in Jehovah’s organization it is not necessary to spend a lot of time and energy in research, for there are brothers in the organization who are assigned to do that very thing, to help you who do not have so much time for this”

Contrast this to the counsel given to the congregation in Ephesus:

(Ephesians 4:14) “we should no longer be children, tossed about as by waves and carried here and there by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in deceptive schemes.”

(Revelation 2:1, 2) “To the angel of the congregation in Eph’e·sus write: These are the things that he says who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands: ² ‘I know your deeds, and your labor and endurance, and that you cannot tolerate bad men, and that you put to the test those who say they are apostles, but they are not, and you found them to be liars.’ ” SHOULD WE EXAMINE OUR BELIEFS?

YES – Millions now living will Never Die (1920) page 13

Every man should be persuaded in his own mind and no man should permit himself to be deterred from examining a question based upon the Bible because a clergyman or anyone else makes the unsupported assertion that it is dangerous or unworthy of consideration… Error never desires to be investigated.

YES – w54 4/15 p. 230 How God Gives Faith

God expects us to reason, to think. That is why he counsels, “Come now, and let us reason together.”

And why Paul wrote Timothy, “Give constant thought to what I am saying.” “Ponder over these things.”

It is because of his lack of knowledge based on sound authority and clear reasoning that the credulous person says: “I never argue religion.” But the person with a sound basis for his religion can discuss it with others, and in fact is urged to do so.

YES – w56 6/15 p. 357 Getting and Giving the Thoughts of God

WORDS are the bullets used in the war for men’s minds, and they are fired from every weapon in the arsenals of propaganda. They incessantly drum on our ears and seek to fill our minds with the thoughts and promises of men. In tireless waves they come to brainwash everyone into conformity, dissolving and rinsing from the mind any thoughts that contradict their message. If they can deluge the mind continually other thoughts will have no room, will be crowded out.

YES – Watchtower, May 1, 1958 p.261; Is Your Religion the Right One?

It is important…that you “keep testing whether you are in the faith,” as Paul declared. Keep checking to see whether the things you believe are in keeping with God’s Word. But the question is, Are you willing to put your religion through such a test? There is nothing to fear, because if you have the right religion you can only be reassured by the examination. And if what you believe is not in keeping with the Bible, then you should welcome the truth, because it leads to light and life.

YES – w64 4/1 p. 195 – “How can you put your religion to the test? By using the Bible as your measuring rod. That is the rule beside which you can put the doctrines and practices of your religion to see if they measure up to God’s standards.”

YES -The Truth that Leads to Eternal Life, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, 1968, p. 13 We need to examine, not only what we personally believe, but also what is taught by any religious organization with which we may be associated. Are its teachings in full harmony with God’s Word, or are they based on traditions of men? If we love the truth there is nothing to fear from such an examination.

YES – Awake 73 10/22 p. 6 Examine the Evidence

Reasonable persons agree that the only fair method is to examine the evidence on both sides, both for and against a disputed theory. That is how one arrives at the truth.

YES – g84 8/22 p. 28 From Our Readers

The Catholic Church occupies a very significant position in the world and claims to be the way of salvation for hundreds of millions of people. Any organization that assumes that position should be willing to submit to scrutiny and criticism. All who criticize have the obligation to be truthful in presenting the facts and fair and objective in assessing such. In both respects we try to live up to that obligation.

NO – w86 3/15 p. 12 par. 7 ‘Do Not Be Quickly Shaken From Your Reason’

You may even reason: ‘It won’t affect me; I’m too strong in the truth. And, besides, if we have the truth, we have nothing to fear. The truth will stand the test.’ In thinking this way, some have fed their minds upon apostate reasoning and have fallen prey to serious questioning and doubt.

YES – w89 1/15 p. 6 Are You Open to New Ideas?

Rather than blindly accepting every new idea presented to us, we need to do careful and exact research, just as a judge would in hearing a legal case.

YES – w91 4/8 p.23 “Test your beliefs against Gods Word. Honest self-examination, comparing your beliefs with the Scriptures, will help you determine if your faith will pass the all-important test of God’s approval.”

YES – w01 4/15 p. 21 – “Thus, true Christians do not need to look to any human as the source of inspired revelation. They are careful not to ‘make the word of God invalid’ because of human tradition.”

YES – w02 4/1 p. 3 Should Faith Be Based on Reason?

Does it not strike you as odd that the person who does extensive research just to buy a car—which one day will end up on the scrap heap—would say regarding his religion, ‘If it was good enough for my parents, it’s good enough for me’?

YES – Watchtower, February 1, 2003, p.32

Certain first-century Jews might sincerely have believed in their way of worshiping God, but their zeal was “not according to accurate knowledge.” (Romans 10:2) For us to be acceptable to God, our sincere beliefs must be based on accurate information.

YES – Awake 9/06 p. 3 Whom Should You Believe?

You can let others tell you what you are allowed to think and believe. Or you may wish to investigate some of the evidence yourself and reach your own conclusion.

NO – km 9/07 p.3

“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.”

YES – yp1 chap. 38 p. 276 How Can I Make Worship of God Enjoyable? “DID YOU KNOW . . . ?”

It’s not wrong to examine your religious beliefs. In fact, asking questions and then doing research is a good way to find out whether what you believe about God is really the truth.

YES – w12 11/1 p. 23 Is Religious Faith an Emotional Crutch?

The Bible has much to say about faith. Yet nowhere does it encourage us to be gullible or naive. Nor does it condone mental laziness. On the contrary, it labels people who put faith in every word they hear as inexperienced, even foolish. (Proverbs 14:15, 18) Really, how foolish it would be for us to accept an idea as true without checking the facts! That would be like covering our eyes and trying to cross a busy street just because someone tells us to do it.

YES – Awake 2/14 p.13 Constantine

It means that we should not take the teachings of any church for granted but that we should examine them in the light of the Bible.

“The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step.” Proverbs 14:15

“when he entered the house Jesus got ahead of him by saying: “What do you think, Simon?” -Mt 17:25

Jesus asking them “What do YOU think?” – Matthew 18:12; 21:28

“You must love Jehovah your God with … your whole mind.” – Matthew 22:37

“Now the latter were more noble-minded than those in Thes·sa·lo·ni’ca, for they received the word with

the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures” (Ac 17:11)

“present your bodies…a sacred service with your power of reason” Ro 12:1

“think so as to have a sound mind” – Romans 12:3

“go on perceiving what the will of Jehovah is” Eph 5:17

“make sure of the more important things” Php 1:10

“make sure of all things” 1Thes 5:21

“Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them” 1 Timothy 4:15

“God gave us not a spirit of cowardice, but that of power and of love and of soundness of mind.” 2Tim 1:7

“I am arousing YOUR clear thinking faculties by way of a reminder” 2Pe 3:1

“he has given us intellectual capacity that we may gain the knowledge of the true one” 1Jo 5:20

WILL WE GROW OLD IN THIS SYSTEM?

NO – Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.425

What an exciting message they proclaimed–“Millions now living will never die!” Brother Rutherford had given a discourse on this subject in 1918. It was also the title of a 128-page booklet published in 1920. From 1920 through 1925, that same subject was featured again and again around the world in public meetings in all areas where speakers were available and in upwards of 30 languages.”

YES – w54 5/1 p. 277 par. 17 The Miracle of Resurrection

Then there are, since Christ’s kingdom has been established, A.D. 1914, some of his “great crowd” of sheeplike ones who have died faithful to him and may yet so die before Armageddon’s war wipes out Satan’s system of things.

POSSIBLY NOT – g75 10/8 p. 22 Proof in the Lives of People

He was thrilled to know that there was a possibility of his not having to wait to grow old and die before being reunited with his father. He might actually have the opportunity of surviving the end of this system and being able to welcome back his father from the dead.

NO – w97 1/1 p. 11 par. 18 Let All Glorify Jehovah!

In the early 1920’s, a featured public talk presented by Jehovah’s Witnesses was entitled “Millions Now Living Will Never Die.” This may have reflected overoptimism at that time. But today that statement can be made with full confidence.

APPARENTLY SO – w11 7/15 p. 32 par. 21 God’s Rest—Have You Entered Into It?

Many never expected to grow old in this system of things.

INFALLIBILITY

JW’s are told to not even harbour internal doubts about the teachings of the GB, even when those teachings readily change or make no sense. You must believe every word the GB say and preach every doctrine they devise. If you doubt or speak against the GB then you are disfellowshipped for apostasy. When WT mentions the same about the Catholic Pope, it is always done with condemnation.

*** w14 7/15 p. 19 Losing a Father—Finding a Father ***

Catholicism also claims that the pope is infallible in matters of doctrine when he speaks ex cathedra, or in an official capacity… But if he is not infallible, then the doctrine may be false.

*** g03 4/22 p. 14 Galileo’s Clash With the Church ***

Catholic theologian Hans Küng writes that “numerous and indisputable” errors of “the ecclesiastical teaching office,” including “the condemnation of Galileo,” have brought the dogma of infallibility into question.

*** w07 3/1 p. 16 Wessel Gansfort—”A Reformer Before the Reformation” ***

Wessel also questioned the infallibility of the pope, saying that the foundations of the faith would be weak if people were expected always to believe the popes, since they committed errors.

*** g89 2/8 p. 4 Are Popes Infallible? ***

“Infallibility” means, then, that the pope, even though he makes mistakes like all other humans, does not err when defining matters of faith and morals ex cathedra, acting in the office of shepherd of the Roman Catholic Church.

*** g89 2/8 p. 7 What Catholics Say About Infallibility ***

If the definitions of dogmas are subject to new interpretations, how can they be infallible? How can they offer the certainties people are seeking?

*** w68 7/15 pp. 446-447 The Pope Is Not Infallible *** the claim of infallibility for the Pope is an outright falsehood designed to mislead trusting people. Regarding religious leaders who deceive, the Bible states: “For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.” (2 Cor. 11:13) As Jesus forewarned, there is grave danger to those who blindly follow the lead of such men.

*** w52 8/1 p. 453 Only One Catholic Church? ***

The Catholic Church has as its visible head His Holiness, the Pope, whose proclamations on matters of faith and morals are infallible.

*** w52 3/15 pp. 177-178 Are the Popes Infallible? ***

Catholic teaching is said to rest on the following theological conclusions: that Christ founded his church, not on himself, but on Peter; that Peter was the first pope of the Catholic Church; that authority and infallibility passed from Peter to successors… that these conclusions are confirmed by this terrible sanction imposed by the Church: “All who refuse to assent to her teaching are threatened with eternal damnation.”

Note: In truth, the Governing Body are the unquestionable popes of all JW’s, under threat of eternal ‘cutting off’.

Note: There’s a famous illustration frequently repeated in public talks.

Reasoning From The Scriptures (1988) p. 323 – Is it true that there is good in all religions?

“Most religions do teach that a person should not lie or steal, and so forth. But is that sufficient? Would you be happy to drink a glass of poisoned water because someone assured you that most of what you were getting was water?”

HOW MANY ARCHANGELS ARE THERE?

MANY – The At-one-ment Between God and Man 1910 p. 389

These Scriptures being decisive authority on the subject, we may know beyond peradventure that men, angels, archangels, or even the Son of God, before and during the time he “was made flesh and dwelt among us” were not immortal all were mortal.

ONE – w1912 6/15 p. 5050, (reprints)

To speak of Archangels (plural) would be contrary to the Scriptures.

MANY – The New World 1942 p. 18

Some were given positions and service as seraphim, others as cherubim, and others as archangels, and others as angels, which last name means “messengers”.

ONE – w91 4/15 p. 28

God’s Word mentions only one archangel, and it speaks of that angel in reference to the resurrected

Lord Jesus.

WHAT YEAR WAS THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS PROPOSED?

1918 – w53 9/15 p. 562 par. 19 Flight to Safety with the New World Society

1. – w58 10/15 p. 630 par. 16 Public Address: God’s Kingdom Rules—Is the World’s End Near?
2. – w59 3/1 p. 142 par. 30 Warnings of Jehovah’s Unusual Work

1919 – w59 9/15 p. 573 Part 22—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

1918 – w59 10/1 p. 597 Part 23—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

1. – w60 2/1 p. 88 par. 31 Part 31—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”
2. – w64 12/15 p. 745 par. 20 “Do Not Become Fearful of Those Who Kill the Body” 1918 – w66 6/1 p. 345 Can You Avoid the Mark of the Beast?

1919 – w66 8/15 p. 499 Image Worship Brings Incurable Disease

1918 – w67 1/15 p. 55 par. 16 The Modern Fulfillment of the “Penny”

1918 – w70 12/1 p. 722 par. 10 The Desolating of Christendom by the “Disgusting Thing”

1918 – w71 9/15 p. 560 par. 8 Set Apart from the World

1918 – w72 3/15 p. 189 Wanted—a Messenger

1. – w74 12/15 p. 761 par. 15 Benefits and Rewards from Being Spiritually Secure
2. – go (1977) chap. 8 p. 136 par. 35 Marked Days During the “Time of the End”

1918 – w79 7/1 p. 7 Keeping Watch for 100 Years

1. – w79 10/15 p. 14 par. 12 Sustained by the Millennial Hope
2. – w80 5/15 p. 19 par. 14 “Get Out of Her, My People” 1918 – w81 6/15 p. 20 par. 3 “Welcome One Another” 1919 – w82 11/15 p. 5 Flee While There Is Yet Time!

1918 – w85 2/1 p. 12 par. 19 Who Can Read the “Sign” Aright?

1. – w87 9/1 p. 20 par. 11 On Guard Against “Peace and Security” as Devised by Nations
2. – w93 11/1 p. 11 par. 15 Daniel’s Prophetic Days and Our Faith

1919 – dp (1999) chap. 17 p. 300 par. 22 Identifying True Worshipers in the Time of the End

1919 – dx86-12 (2012) Dates (Calendar)

LEAGUE OF NATIONS – SIMPLE MATHS:

November 1, 1993 Watchtower p.11 says, “The League was proposed in January 1919. If we count 1,290 days (3 years, 6.5 months) from that time, we arrive at September 1922.”

Notes:

1. That statement is simply incorrect. In reality, if you add 1290 days to Jan 8th 1919 you arrive at July 21st 1922.

1. Actually, if we take January 8th 1918 as the ‘acknowledged’ date when Woodrow Wilson proposed the League of Nations, and count forward 1290 days, we get: July 21st, 1921!

Previous interpretations tried to do some converting of solar days to lunar months in order to make 1290=1699.

Try it yourself: http://www.timeanddate.com/date/dateadd.html

Now look at these facts:

League of Nations: Started Jan 10th 1920 – Ended 20th April 1946^**

United Nations: Started 24th Oct 1945

In other words the UN officially began 6 months before the League was formerly concluded. This was necessary to transfer the assets and governance from the old to the new organisation.

How then is it possible for this beast to fit the description of “but is not” in Rev 17:8 when there was not a moment in time when there was no League or United nations?

Where was John in the stream of time when he visioned this event?

** w67 2/15 p. 121 An Abortive Attempt to Establish a New Order

“The General Assembly of the League of Nations ceased to meet after December 14, 1939, when it expelled the Soviet Union from membership because of its attack on Finland, in undeclared war, on November 30, 1939. When the League’s Assembly met again on April 8-18, 1946, it was to close out the League of Nations and to declare it nonexistent. It was like a funeral service for the League.”

** w59 10/15 p. 612 par. 2 When God Speaks Peace to All Nations

“The League of Nations is dead! Long live the United Nations!” cried out Britain’s aged Lord Cecil in the assembly at the League’s palace in Geneva, Switzerland, in April of 1946.

And does this scripture really describe the inept and powerless League of Nations?

In what way could the League of Nations force people to worship it on pain of death?

(Revelation 13:15) “the image of the wild beast should both speak and cause to be killed all those who refuse to worship the image of the wild beast.”

IS IT OK TO BE DECEPTIVE?

NO – w50 10/1 p. 352 par. 10 “Droop Not Your Hands”

We are not peddlers of God’s Word who misrepresent their product in order to deceive their customers and make sales for self-enrichment at the people’s expense.

YES – w56 2/1 p. 86 par. 37 Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves it is proper for the inoffensive “sheep” to use war strategy toward the wolves in the interests of God’s

work.

YES – Watchtower Oct 1, 1954, par 21, 25

No harm is practiced by withholding incriminating information from one who is not entitled to know.

YES – Watchtower May 1, 1957 Page 285 – 286.

So in time of spiritual warfare it is proper to misdirect the enemy by hiding the truth.

YES – w60 5/15 pp. 294-295 Assembly Realizations Exceed Anticipations

Appreciated by all, but especially by those who came underground from East Germany to the German assemblies at Nuremberg and Berlin, was the talk “Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves,” which showed that the Scriptures justify the “war strategy” of hiding true facts from the enemy.

YES – Watchtower June 1, 1960, pages 351-352

There is one exception, however, that the Christian must ever bear in mind. As a soldier of Christ he is in theocratic warfare and he must exercise added caution when dealing with God’s foes. Thus the Scriptures show that for the purpose of protecting the interests of God’s cause, it is proper to hide the truth from God’s enemies… We must tell the truth to one who is entitled to know, but if one is not so entitled we may be evasive.

NO – g72 9/22 p. 29 Watching the World – “Religious ‘Credibility Gap'”

♦ Politicians have reputations for distorting truth. The ‘Pentagon papers’ affair in 1971 highlighted their ‘credibility gap.’ Journalists and advertisers are also guilty of deception. And the clergy? Veteran United Press International writer Louis Cassels says: “Time and again, as a reporter covering religious news, I have found church spokesmen resorting to deliberate obfuscations [confusions] and torturing the truth in an effort to keep the public in the dark about what actually happened in a particular situation.”

YES – Insight On The Scriptures, Volume 2, 1988 pages 244-245.

While malicious lying is definitely condemned in the Bible, this does not mean that a person is under obligation to divulge truthful information to people who are not entitled to it

YES – w88 5/15 p. 20 par. 19 Serve Jehovah With One Accord

I turned to Jehovah in prayer, trusting in his promises. I knew this meant the use of theocratic war strategy for the sake of the Kingdom work and the protection of my Christian brothers.

NO – g00 6/22 p. 9 Do Not Be a Victim of Propaganda!

THERE is a difference—a big difference—between education and propaganda. Education shows you how to think. Propaganda tells you what to think. Good educators present all sides of an issue and encourage discussion. Propagandists relentlessly force you to hear their view and discourage discussion. Often their real motives are not apparent. They sift the facts, exploiting the useful ones and concealing the others. They also distort and twist facts, specializing in lies and half-truths. Your emotions, not your logical thinking abilities, are their target.

The propagandist makes sure that his message appears to be the right and moral one and that it gives you a sense of importance and belonging if you follow it. You are one of the smart ones, you are not alone, you are comfortable and secure—so they say.

YES – g00 2/8 p. 21 Lying—Is It Ever Justified?

Of course, being truthful does not mean that we are obligated to divulge all information to anyone who asks it of us. “Do not give what is holy to dogs, neither throw your pearls before swine…” warned Jesus, at Matthew 7:6. For example, individuals with wicked intent may have no right to know certain things.

Christians understand that they are living in a hostile world. Thus, Jesus advised his disciples to be “cautious as serpents” while remaining “innocent as doves.” Jesus did not always disclose the full truth, especially when revealing all the facts could have brought unnecessary harm to himself or his disciples. Still, even at such times, he did not lie.

YES – w04 11/15 p.28

The faithful witness does not commit perjury when testifying. His testimony is not tainted with lies. However, this does not mean that he is under obligation to give full information to those who may want to bring harm to Jehovah’s people in some way. The patriarchs Abraham and Isaac withheld facts from some who did not worship Jehovah. Rahab of Jericho misdirected the king’s men. (Joshua 2:1-7) Jesus Christ himself refrained from divulging total information when doing so would have caused needless harm. (John 7:1-10) He said: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, neither throw your pearls before swine.”

YES – w07 2/1 p. 6 Why Be Truthful?

So while Jesus did not utter an untruth, he gave them an incomplete answer in order to limit the possible harm they could do to him or to his followers.

YES – yb2008 p.108

Life was not easy, but Jehovah gave us wisdom. In April 1959, I was arrested for religious activities. Not wanting to give any of the brothers away, I decided to deny everything. The investigator pointed to pictures of brothers and asked me to name them. I said that I could identify no one. Then he showed me a picture of my fleshly brother and asked, “Is this your brother?” I answered: “I don’t know whether it is him or not. I can’t say.” After that, the investigator showed me a picture of myself and asked, “Is this you?” I said, “This person looks like me, but whether it is me or not, I can’t say.”

NO – w11 12/15 p.8–9

Will we let Solomon’s course be a warning example for us? With similar rationalizing, one might share in extracurricular sports or clubs at school, underreport taxable income, or tell untruths when asked to reveal actions that could be embarrassing.

YES – w16 No.1 (public edition) p.5 “Forms of Dishonesty”

One form of dishonesty that is particularly widespread today is lying.

[Lying is] saying something false to someone who is entitled to know the truth.

SPACE TRAVEL

*** Watchtower Nov 1 1920 pg 334 ***

“Someone asked me the other day: Suppose you should be here in 1925 what would you do? I said, I believe I will be home in the Pleiades before then .”

*** Reconciliation pg 14 ***

“the Pleiades [constellation] is the place of the eternal throne of God.”

*** The Truth Shall Make You Free, 1943, p. 285 ***

“Man on earth can no more get rid of these demonic ‘heavens’ (the organization of wicked spirits) than man can by airplane or rockets or other means get up above the air envelope which is about our earthly globe and in which man breathes.”

*** Evolution vs The New World p. 61

As Anthony Standen warns, science has become “the great Sacred Cow of our time”. This scientist with a refreshingly uninflated ego declares that the precise theory of evolution is “much further from being proved than men are from flying to the moon”. –Science Is a Sacred Cow, pp. 34,103.

*** w55 10/1 p. 596 par. 11 Part 3—What Do the Scriptures Say About “Survival After Death”? *** did [Jesus] preach to the spirits during the ten days between his ascending to heaven from the Mount

of Olives and the day of Pentecost? No, for during those ten days Jesus was ascending to his heavenly Father, how many billions of light-years distant from the earth we do not know

*** w68 12/15 p. 752 pars. 7-8 How We Know It Is Getting Near *** (The moon landing fulfils prophecy!)

The scientific projects of putting men on the moon lead to fears that the moon will be made a military base from which to control the earth. ⁸ Our awareness of such “signs” in sun, moon and stars (Lu 21:25) as produced by modern scientific findings only adds to the “anguish of nations.”

*** w73 7/15 p. 431 par. 6 Seek God While He May Be Found ***

Man might travel through the atmosphere and even probe as far as the moon, but he cannot permanently reside in either. He should be content to dwell within his God-given boundary.

*** w87 3/1 p. 25 par. 2 Making All Things New ***

Then there are the astounding advances in telecommunications, the use of orbiting satellites, and the launching of spaceships that have actually landed men on the moon.

*** g95 12/8 p. 8 A Look at Today’s Science Fiction ***

According to Time magazine, Star Trek fans on five continents have devoted themselves to learning the fictitious language Klingon, which was featured in Star Trek TV shows and movies. Such extreme behavior does not harmonize with the Bible’s counsel at 1 Peter 1:13: “Keep your senses completely [“keep balanced,” footnote].”

“TRINITY” IS NOT IN THE BIBLE

tr chap. 3 p. 22 par. 12 Who Is God?

“Many religions of Christendom teach that God is a Trinity, although the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible.”

By this reasoning the following phrases “do not appear in the Bible” so therefore should not be taught:

New Scrolls	New Light	1914 1919
Governing Body	Emblems	Faithful and Discreet Slave Class
Paradise Earth	New System	Christ’s millennial reign
Growing to perfection	Spirit Directed	Dedicated and baptised Disassociate
Overlapping generation	Judicial Committee	Kingdom Interests Disfellowship

Live up to our dedication Wait on Jehovah (“wait for Jehovah” occurs once in Ps 131:3)

Where else can we go (Peter asked ‘to whom’ else could he go (John 6:68) – there’s a big difference!)

I guess it depends which version you read though.

w51 7/15 p. 419 Jehovah’s Word Endures Forever!

Do you have a Catholic Douay Bible? Read it! Do you have the Jewish Leeser translation? Read it! Do you have the King James Version? Read it!

WHEN DID THE TRINITY DOCTRINE ORIGINATE?

4th CENTURY – w61 2/15 p. 104

A “Holy Trinity” of three Gods in one God is also worshiped by most Catholic and Protestant sects, this having first been adopted as Catholic doctrine at the Nicene Council of A.D. 325.

5th CENTURY – w69 7/15 p. 421

Thus the Trinity was unknown to early churchmen. Actually it was some 400 years or more after the death of Christ that the concept of ‘three persons in one God’ was finally formulated by men and introduced into the church.

2nd CENTURY – w78 5/15 p. 27

The vast majority of the churches of Christendom still teach such doctrines as immortal soul, Trinity and others, which filtered into apostate Christianity from the second century C.E. from Greek philosophy.

3rd CENTURY – w2000 6/1 p. 5

But by the third century, certain influential clerics, enamored of the trinitarian teaching of pagan Greek philosopher Plato, began recasting God to fit the Trinitarian formula.

WHAT IS JOB 38:35 SPEAKING ABOUT?

(Job 38:35) “Can you send out lightning bolts? Will they come and say to you, ‘Here we are!’ “

TELEGRAPHY – The Harp of God 1921 p. 16

Wireless telegraphy and airships are modern discoveries; yet since they have been discovered we find that God, through his holy prophets, foretold centuries ago the use of such inventions. (Job 38:35; Isa 60:8)

RADIO – Freedom for the Peoples 1927 p. 12

Certain it is that God provided the radio because he foretells it in his Word written by the prophet centuries ago. (Job 38:35) The due time must come, in the unfolding of his plan, for the use of the radio. That time has come, and God will use it for the benefit of mankind.

THE WIRELESS – The Last Days 1928 p. 15

The truth is, God foretold through his prophet three thousand years ago the use of the wireless. It is written: “Canst thou send lightnings, that they may go, and say unto thee, Here we are?” (Job 38:35)

NOT TELEGRAPHY OR RADIO – w33 6/1 pp. 171-172

(Job 38:35, margin) Wireless telegraphy and the radio are modern inventions. This text of Job has been applied to the radio stations and their operators, but the text cannot mean that. The radio is in the nature of lightning and it belongs to Jehovah, and except by his permission man cannot use the radio.

LIGHTNING – w05 11/15 p. 16

Jehovah tells Job to consider the clouds. (Job 38:34-38) Man cannot order a single cloud to appear and release its water. (…) Rain is often accompanied by lightning, but man cannot cause it to fulfill his wishes. Lightnings are represented as reporting to God and saying, “Here we are!” (…) Full knowledge of lightning remains a mystery to man but not to God.

NO NEED FOR EDUCATION

w1910 March 1, p. 84-85 we have more than once called attention to in these columns, that the spread of education, and increase of wealth, are not tending to make mankind happier, holier or more content, but rather the reverse.

Awake! 1930 March 19 p.409 “A Question and Answer”

We here offer the suggestion that a college education is entirely unnecessary, anyway. Jesus did not have one; neither did the apostles; and about seven eighths of what is learned there is false, as well as useless;

Watchtower 1964 9/15 p. 563 par. 20 “Carry On Prayer on Every Occasion in Spirit” he made it a matter of prayer to Jehovah for wisdom… In response to his prayers he was strengthened

to decide for the full-time pioneer service and to reject the scholarship offer. A right decision was made.

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 fulfilment of Bible prophecy indicates that this corrupt system is due to end in a few years. Therefore, as a young person, you will never fulfil any career that this system offers. If you are in high school and thinking about a college education, it means at least four, perhaps even six or eight more years to graduate into a specialized career. But where will this system of things be by that time? It will be well on the way toward its finish, if not actually gone!”

Watchtower 1969 March 15 p.171 Par. 12 What Influences Decisions in Your Life?

The influence and spirit of this world is to get ahead, to make a name for oneself. Many schools now have student counsellors who encourage one to pursue higher education after high school… Do not be influenced by them. Do not let them brainwash you with the Devils propaganda to get ahead.

g88 1/22 p. 28 From Our Readers

We agree that there are many benefits to be gained from increased knowledge that institutions of higher learning can dispense… We do not condemn the so-called higher education as such and reaffirm what we have stated before, that going to college is an individual matter.

Awake! 89 5/8 p. 13 What Career Should I Choose?

“But one fact is indisputable: “The time left is reduced”! For all its presumed benefits, would four years or more in a university be the best use of that remaining time?—Ephesians 5:16.

w92 11/1 p. 20 pars. 17-19 Education With a Purpose

“If Christian parents responsibly decide to provide their children with further education after high school, that is their prerogative.”

jr (2010) chap. 4 pp. 45-46 par. 7 “Guard Against a Treacherous Heart” (Studied in 2013)

How easily one might start to minimize the wise, balanced advice from the faithful and discreet slave class about additional education.

Watchtower 2012 Jun 15 p.23 para 15.

“school counsellors sincerely believe that it is in your best interests to pursue higher education and to plan for a secular career. Yet, their confidence lies in a social and financial system that has no lasting future.”

BOE Letter 3/6/12a-E

“Appointed men must be exemplary in heeding the warnings given by the faithful slave and its Governing Body when it comes to education. (Matt. 24:45-47) Would an elder, a ministerial servant, or a pioneer continue to qualify to serve as such if he, his wife, or his children pursue higher education?

w12 9/15 p. 22 par. 16 Learn From the Patience of Jehovah and Jesus

A person who lacks confidence that the end is near might start to make alternate arrangements, so to speak, in case things do not work out as Jehovah said they would. He might then try to make a name for himself in this world, to seek financial security instead of putting God’s Kingdom first, or to trust in higher education to secure a comfortable life now. Really, though, would that not be evidence of a lack of faith?

w13 4/15 p. 23 par. 3 “Make Sure Of The More Important Things”

Some among God’s people are getting sidetracked. This may be seen in the decisions they make with regard to secular work, higher education, and acquisition of material possessions.

w16 June p.21 para. 14 Jehovah Our God Is One Jehovah

Or the love of the world might involve efforts to attain “great things,” such as through the pursuit of higher education.

Note: The WT removes privileges and says that you take education only for selfish, greedy reasons, not for enjoyment, retraining or anything else. Then letters are read to the congregations asking for highly educated and degree qualified lawyers, doctors, dentists, architects, pilots and fund managers for Bethel.

EIGHT DATES FOR WHEN THE ANOINTED WERE ‘FINALLY SEALED’?

Russell originally set the date for the final sealing of the 144,000 as being 1878. This was subsequently moved to 1881, 1910, 1914, then 1925.

1881 – (The New Creation; 1899; 1915 ed.; p. 95)

To our understanding the general call to this joint heirship with our Redeemer as members of the New Creation of God, ceased in 1881.

There was an admission that “some thought” it was going to happen in 1914.

(That’s because they were told ‘from Jehovah’ that it would happen. Who would dare doubt it?) w13 9/15 p. 14 par. 14 Make Jehovah’s Reminders the Exultation of Your Heart

For instance, in the year 1914, some thought that their being taken to heaven was imminent.

Then in the Watchtower 1933 Nov 15 it was shown that the parable of Matthew 20:1-16 related to the 12 years from 1919 and hence the close of the sealing was changed to 1931.

In 1969 this was changed again to coincide with the introduction of the Great Crowd doctrine in 1935: w69 12/15 p. 756 par. 9 “Make Disciples”—Till When?

“It is likewise evident that the vision of the “great crowd” (Rev. 7:9) was given to John the apostle after he had the vision of the 144,000 sealed spiritual Israelites. Hence this vision would apply now, specifically since 1935, when the sealing of the 144,000 spiritual Israelites appears coming to its close.”

Exactly what ‘evidence‘ is that? Apparently none, as admitted in 2007.

“Thus it appears that we cannot set a specific date for when the calling of Christians to the heavenly hope ends.” Watchtower 2007 May 1 p.31

Note: There are a number of likely contributors to this latest admission. By the year 2007, 1935 was 72 years prior and an irrelevant embarrassment. Even the Governing Body contained few born prior to 1935. (Since 2012, all GB members were born after the 1935 ‘final sealing’). Furthermore, from around 1980 the number of memorial partakers was no longer declining but stable at around 8,500 people, later rising each year from year 2000 until there were over 14,000 partakers in 2014.

DO THE ANOINTED GO TO HEAVEN BEFORE OR AFTER ARMAGEDDON?

Before – w51 12/15 p. 749 par. 5 Release Under Way to the Ends of the Earth

They used to think that only these saints were to be gathered or harvested before Armageddon, although it was timely for them since 1918 to herald the message, “Millions Now Living Will Never Die.” It was even suggested that this harvesting of such spiritual saints might end with the year 1924, after which the heavenly glorification of these anointed, spirit-begotten followers of Christ would take place. (See The Watchtower, January 1, 1924, ¶¶ 11-32.)

We don’t know, but maybe after – w76 6/15 p. 383 Questions From Readers the Bible does not say… certain Biblical patterns suggest that some of these anointed ones may survive

the destructive “great tribulation.”

After – re (1988) chap. 41 p. 296 par. 5 God’s Day of Judgment—Its Joyful Outcome!

If any of the anointed are still alive on earth after Armageddon, they must shortly thereafter die and receive their heavenly reward by resurrection.

Before – w14 02/15 p. 10 para. 12 Rejoice over the Marriage of the Lamb

Before the outbreak of the war of Armageddon, therefore, all members of the “bride” will be in heaven.

WHEN WERE THE ANOINTED RESURRECTED TO HEAVEN?

1874 – w24 1/1 p.4 para.11

The physical facts establish beyond all question that since 1874 the Lord has been harvesting the saints by gathering them together from all quarters of the earth and from every denomination, and outside of all denominations.

1878 – Watchtower 2/1/25, p. 371

It is the understanding of the consecrated that the sleeping saints were resurrected in 1878.

Not 1878 – Watchtower 5/15/27, p. 151

It seems impossible to find anything in these parallel events to indicate the resurrection of the sleeping saints in 1878.

1918 – Watchtower 06/01/27 p.165

… it follows, then that the temple of God was brought together in 1918, and that that marks the time of the resurrection of the sleeping saints.

IF “HELPERS” TO THE GB ARE NOT ANOINTED, WHY ARE THEY LATER PROMOTED TO THE GB?

• w2015 10/15 p.3 Keep Holding Men Of That Sort Dear

These helpers, from among the “other sheep,” provide valuable support to the Governing Body.

• w10 6/15 p. 3 United in Love—Annual Meeting Report

Later, members of the other sheep class were appointed as helpers.

• w06 2/15 p. 28 par. 11 Walking in the Path of Increasing Light

…in 1992 some of the “other sheep” received added service responsibilities. They were appointed as helpers to the Governing Body committees.

• w95 7/1 p. 22 par. 9 Dwellers Together in a Restored “Land”

Now, oversight of most congregations, as well as circuits, districts, and branches, has of necessity been entrusted to the other sheep. In 1992 a few of these were given the privilege of attending meetings of committees of the Governing Body and serving as nonvoting helpers.

• w78 5/1 p. 31 Gilead Graduates Dearly Loved—Why?

Franz pointed to verse 5, explaining how the Lord’s “other sheep,” of which all these Gilead graduates profess to be, are the “strangers” and “foreigners” who serve as helpers to the priestly anointed class.

Note: These “helpers” must be non-anointed otherwise they would, by definition, be part of the F&DS. Would it therefore be unusually convenient if these non-anointed “helpers” suddenly became anointed so that they could serve on the Governing Body?

• w2014 7/15 p.17-22 Losing A Father – Finding A Father

In 1992, I [Gerrit Loesch] was appointed as a helper to the Service Committee of the Governing Body, and since July 1994, I have had the privilege of serving on the Governing Body.

• w2006 3/15 p. 26 New Members Of The Governing Body

Brother [Geoffrey] Jackson was made a helper to the Teaching Committee of the Governing Body.

Brother [Antony] Morris worked in the Service Department at Patterson and later as a helper to the Service Committee of the Governing Body.

• w2000 1/1 p. 29 New Members Of The Governing Body

Brother [Samuel] Herd has been working in the Service Department. He was also serving as a helper to the Service Committee.

[Stephen Lett] worked in the Service Department and was a helper to the Teaching Committee. Brother [Guy] Pierce had been serving as a helper to the Personnel Committee. (Now deceased) Since 1998, [David Splane] had been a helper to the Writing Committee.

• w2013 7/15 p.26 A New Member Of The Governing Body

In September 2010, [Stephen Sanderson] was invited to return to the United States, where he served as a helper to the Service Committee of the Governing Body.

Note: In 2015 ALL seven/eight GB members were once “helpers from among the other sheep”.

It’s interesting that the “helpers” arrangement came into being in 1992, the year that Fred Franz died.

Maybe he didn’t agree with it.

This means the current GB were not anointed before 1992 when Fed Franz died. In other words, none of the GB in 2015 are part of This Generation since they did not overlap Fred Franz as anointed brothers.

Given this, why did David Splane say in the Sept 2015 broadcast that “All the current members of the Governing Body are of ‘this generation’ “?

Who exactly appoints these men to later become the Faithful and Discreet slave, is it Jesus or is it men? If it is Jesus, how can they prove that to be true because it looks like any other company promotion?

Remember, if a helper writes an article for the WT which then gets published, or if a helper appears on a JW broadcast and teaches, if this helper is anointed (as all of the current GB say they were when they were helpers), then these helpers also fit the description of the F&DS as described in w13 7/15 p. 22 par. 10 “…that slave is made up of a small group of anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and dispensing spiritual food during Christ’s presence.“

This means the Faithful Slave is not just the current serving GB, but all of their anointed helpers too.

Besides, who says the GB are actually the Faithful and Discreet Slave? They do themselves!

Can we trust them? John 5:31 says “If I alone bear witness about myself, my witness is not true.”

DO THE GOVERNING BODY SIGN BIBLES?

YES – w99 5/15 p. 8 A Historic Visit Makes an Island Rejoice

NO – w2016 p.27 Love “Does Not Behave Indecently”

At times… members of the Governing Body as well as their helpers may attend a convention or theocratic event that we also attend… But could we, even unintentionally, show a lack of good manners? How might we do that? … Would we ask them to autograph our books or bibles?

WILL THIS BE OUR LAST MEMORIAL? “WE DO NOT KNOW”

KM 2014 03 p.2 Para 4. “Will You Seize the Opportunity?

“Will this Memorial be our last? (1 Cor. 11: 26) We do not know.”

ka (1973) chap. 17 pp. 351-352 par. 43 The “Slave” Who Lived to See the “Sign”

The Watch Tower, under date of March 1, 1918, in its first paragraph of the leading article “In Memory of Our King,” said: “Whether the coming Memorial will be the last on earth, we do not, of course, know; but we do know that we are one year nearer the full consummation of our hopes.”

Note: If for the last 100 years the GB did not know, then why say it again in 2014 which suggests that it might be the last?

WHEN ARE PROPHECIES UNDERSTOOD?

ONLY AFTER FULFILLMENT – w51 7/1 p. 399 par. 5 Release to the Captives

It is further established that prophecy may be understood only after it has been fulfilled or during the course of its fulfillment. No matter who tried to grasp the meaning of these visions they could never know until Jehovah the “revealer of secrets” disclosed them by bringing the actual events to pass.

IN GOD’S DUE TIME – w64 2/1 p. 67 More Is needed than Bibles

In fact, Bible prophecies cannot be understood by anyone until God’s due time.

ONLY AFTER FULFILLMENT – w00 3/15 p. 13 par. 12 ‘O God, Send Out Your Light’

Just as the apostles understood many prophecies concerning the Messiah only after Jesus’ death and resurrection, Christians today understand Bible prophecy in its finest detail only after it has been fulfilled.

BEFORE, DURING OR AFTER FULFILLMENT – w11 12/1 p. 12 Who Can Interpret Prophecy? The meaning of a prophecy can be discerned before, during, or after its fulfillment.

WHAT DOES THE MEMORIAL LOAF REPRESENT?

THE ANOINTED – w1880 April (No. 10) p. 8 if we are Christ’s, we are part of the same loaf; to be broken as He was; to die, as He did to the flesh –

crucifying the flesh. “The loaf, which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”

THE ANOINTED – w51 1/15 p. 58 par. 6 Partaking in a Worthy Manner

Memorial partakers must keep clearly in mind that they are “Christ’s body”, symbolized by the one loaf. We must have a “proper sense of the Body”, sensing our personal unity with the Head Jesus Christ. If we do not, then we will become spiritually “weak and sickly” and even be “sleeping in death”

THE ANOINTED – w51 1/15 p. 51 par. 6 Participation with Demons Forbidden

The loaf represents the “body of Christ” in which Jesus’ little flock of Kingdom joint heirs share.

THE ANOINTED – w52 2/15 p. 112 par. 3 What About Those Not Partaking?

They would take Christendom’s view of the matter [‘that the bread and wine represented merely Jesus’ personal flesh and blood which he sacrificed as a ransom’] which has resulted in such confused sectarianism, vicious strife and sanguinary conflict among professed Christians.

THE ANOINTED – w54 3/15 p. 174 Celebrating the Lord’s Evening Meal

To which body was Jesus referring here? To his fleshly body? Hardly, for concerning it we read that not a bone was broken, whereas Jesus broke the loaf. (John 19:36) Rather, he was referring to his spiritual body, the Christian congregation, which in the Scriptures is termed a body or Christ’s body more than forty-five times. That this is the correct conclusion is apparent from Paul’s words

CHRIST’S LITERAL BODY – w56 1/15 p. 52 par. 29 “The Table of Demons” versus “The Table of Jehovah” the loaf that he broke must equally have a literal human value; it must mean his body of flesh

THE ANOINTED – w57 4/1 p. 199 “The Lord’s Evening Meal”

It therefore follows that only those who belong to spiritual Israel, or Christ’s body, may properly partake… “The loaf which we break, is it not a sharing in the body of the Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, although many, are one body, for we are all partaking of that one loaf.”

CHRIST’S LITERAL BODY – w59 7/1 p. 408 Part 17—”Your Will Be Done on Earth”

He broke a loaf of unleavened bread and offered it to them to eat, saying that it represented his perfect human body that was to be sacrificed in behalf of human sinners.

CHRIST’S LITERAL BODY – w13 12/15 p. 25 par. 10 ‘Do This in Remembrance of Me’

At one time, God’s servants felt that… the bread meant “the body of the Christ,” the congregation of anointed ones. In time, however, it was appreciated that both reason and Scripture indicate that the bread represents Jesus’ human body.

Note: If “reason and scripture indicate” this, was the wrong teaching, held for 77 years, unreasonable and unscriptural? If so, was it wise or discreet to teach it?

TARTARUS IS?

w1880 June No.12 p. 8 – ‘tartarus,’ signifies, according to best Greek scholars, our atmosphere w1880 December p.5 – “Tartarus” lower atmosphere–our air.

w1881 July/August p. 21 – “Tartarus”–which probably signifies our earth w1888 March p. 6 – Not a place, but a state of being degraded and dishonoured w1897 June 15 p.181 – it does signify the air or atmosphere of earth. w1898 Dec 1 p. 356 – the place or condition in which the fallen angels are reserved w1905 Jan 15 p.23 – they were “restrained [in Tartarus, our atmosphere] w1910 Jan 15 p.34 – Not a place, but a state of being degraded and dishonoured w1911 Sept 15 p. 358 – Earths atmosphere g24 1/16 p.254 – Tartarus; our atmosphere

w50 10/15 p. 388 par. 13 Riches of the Full Assurance of Our Understanding

Tartarus, applies only to the fallen angel spirits… describes such angels’ present abased condition w51 2/15 p. 108 An Open Answer to “The Vindicator”

Publicly and privately the witnesses teach that there are such places as Hades, Gehenna and Tartarus, w53 10/1 p. 596 par. 9 The Attack by Gog of Magog abased as if being cast down to a Tartarus

DO WE NEED ANYTHING EXTRA, BEYOND THE SCRIPTURES?

Proverbs 30:6 “Add nothing to his words, Or he will reprove you, And you will be proved a liar.”

1 Peter 2:2 “As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated [nothing added] milk of the word.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 “All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial… so that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.” Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and exerts power.”

*** w16/08 Do You See the Need to make Spiritual Progress

By reading God’s word and meditating on it, we can develop wisdom, insight, good judgement, knowledge, thinking ability and soundness of mind… And as we read our bible based publications we can discern Gods’ thinking on many matters.

*** w11 8/15 p. 30 par. 14 Pursue Peace *** elders need to pray for the help of Jehovah’s spirit and depend on its guidance by consulting God’s Word and the publications of the faithful and discreet slave class.

*** w08 4/15 p. 7 par. 19 Repudiate “Valueless Things” ***

Elders do not go beyond the things that are written in the Bible. And by extension, they do not go beyond the Bible-based counsel written in the publications of the faithful and discreet slave.

*** w07 12/15 p. 27 par. 3 Highlights From the Book of Malachi ***

Those who are given the privilege of teaching in the congregation should make sure that what they teach is in harmony with God’s Word, and with Bible-based publications of “the faithful steward.”

*** w06 11/15 p. 26 par. 2 Always Accept Jehovah’s Discipline ***

Correction may come… from your study of God’s Word and the publications of “the faithful steward.”

*** w03 6/15 p. 11 Serving a Unique Language Group in Korea *** in the first century, books and letters were written by experienced older men. In our time, an

abundance of spiritual food has been provided by means of books and other Christian publications.

*** w01 5/15 p. 29 ‘By Wisdom Our Days Will Become Many’ ***

May we feast at wisdom’s table by diligently studying God’s Word and the Bible-based publications provided by the slave class.

*** w99 5/15 p. 17 par. 10 Keep On Walking in Jehovah’s Way ***

The ‘word behind us’ also comes by means of “the faithful and discreet slave,” who supplies “food at the proper time.” (Matthew 24:45-47) One way this food is supplied is in printed Bible-based publications,

*** w95 1/15 p. 27 Assembling With Those Who Fear God *** the personal obligations of all baptized persons are fourfold: (1) We must study God’s Word with the

aid of publications that help us to understand and apply it

*** w92 11/15 p. 28 Elders—Readjust Others in a Spirit of Mildness *** our statements must be founded on the Scriptures and on Bible-based publications.

*** w87 4/15 p. 19 par. 14 Increase Your Peace Through Accurate Knowledge ***

Oftentimes, these men can assist you in researching the publications of the Watch Tower Society for help in making a right decision or coping with a problem.

*** w86 2/1 p. 19 par. 17 Comfort for Integrity Keepers ***

Prayerful study of God’s Word and Christian publications provided by “the faithful and discreet slave” can bring comfort in times of stress.

*** w85 8/15 p. 17 par. 3 Train With Godly Devotion as Your Aim ***

But you must carefully study his Word and Bible-based publications, thereby being “nourished with the words of the faith and of the fine teaching.”

*** w81 12/1 p. 27 par. 4 The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter ***

Jehovah God has also provided his “faithful and discreet slave,” to help Christians understand and apply properly the Bible in their lives. Unless we are in touch with this channel of communication that God is using, we will not progress along the road to life, no matter how much Bible reading we do.

*** w60 3/15 p. 177 par. 6 Working Whole-souled ***

When you hear the Bible or theocratic publications discussed or when you read them, you should get the reaction as that experienced by the disciples with whom the risen Christ conversed along the road.

*** w1932 4/1 p. 101 para.13 [Despite the claims, the fate of every non-bible publication – Redundancy:]

[Isa 54:13] says “The sovereign Lord giveth The Word”. […] ‘The Word’ includes every revelation of truth down to and including the book Vindication, and whatsoever may be revealed and published…

DELIVERANCE IS AT HAND (AND HAS BEEN FOR OVER 135 YEARS)

*** w08 5/15 p. 15-16 par 20 *** (10 years ago – as of 2018)

May you experience great joy in your ministry as you declare this good news and help those ” rightly disposed for everlasting life ” to realize that deliverance by God’s Kingdom is at hand! – Acts 13:48

*** g 6/06 p. 32 Millions Will Be Going—Will You? *** (12 years ago)

The morning program will continue with a talk that introduces a convention highlight, the full-costume drama based on chapter 13 of the Bible book of First Kings. The convention’s final session Sunday afternoon features the public talk “Deliverance by God’s Kingdom Is at Hand!”

*** w97 4/1 p. 11 Take Courage as Deliverance Draws Near *** (21 years ago) Deliverance Near—For Whom?

12 The increasingly difficult conditions on earth are striking evidence that a vast change—indeed, a grand deliverance—is near at hand! For whom? Deliverance is nearing for those who pay attention to the warning signals and who take appropriate action.

*** w82 10/1 p. 28 par. 14 Be as Men Who Are Facing Har–Magedon Unafraid *** (36 years ago) 14 … .The “deliverance” that is now at hand for persons of such faith is not initially the heavenly glorification of the remnant of the spirit-begotten disciples of Christ and their being taken away from the earthly scene of tribulation, although that is in store for them finally.

*** w72 04/15 p. 233 *** (46 years ago)

Mankind desperately needs a Liberator from these ruinous demonic heavens. Jehovah God has raised up the needed Deliverer! Jehovah’s marked time for the desired deliverance is at hand!

*** w54 10/15 p. 624 Why Prayers Go Unanswered *** (64 years ago)

They rejoice because they know deliverance to a new world is at hand, that this present evil world must end in that “great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again,” namely, the war of Armageddon. This is Jehovah’s decree.

— The Watchtower, October 1st, 1941. page 303 (77 years ago)

As his witnesses these faithful ones the great Jehovah God bids to go and tell the glad news to the sorrowing world, and to advise mankind that Jehovah is God, that Christ Jesus is the King of kings, and that the day of deliverance is at hand.

— The Watchtower, September 15th 1930 page 281 (88 years ago)

God has now given his people an understanding of The Revelation which he gave to Jesus Christ to show unto his servants. The publication of the two books called Light, giving the explanation of The

Revelation, will greatly anger the Devil and all who have not the spirit of Christ. We may therefore expect the opposition to the kingdom to quickly become stronger than ever. It will be of short duration, however, because the day of deliverance is at hand.

— The Watchtower, January 1st , 1921 page 13 (97 years ago)

Behold, the evidence daily increases that the old world has ended! The kingdom of heaven is here! Let the saints look up and lift up their heads. Let them sing aloud for joy because the day of deliverance is at hand.

— Zion’s Watch Tower VOL. XXXI June 1st No. 11 1910 R4627 p. 188 (108 years ago)

Through his lie our race has gone down into sickness, mental, moral and physical, and is going down rapidly to the tomb. Thank God for the great Deliverer; thank God also, for his great day of deliverance, the Millennial Age, now nigh at hand!

— Zion’s Watch Tower November 15th, 1892 page 326 (R1464) (126 years ago)

It is therefore his will rather that we should suffer injustice than that we should spend our strength in fruitless efforts to interrupt the present order of things. And so the kingdom of heaven suffers violence now, but such will not always be the case; for the time of her deliverance is at hand.

— Zion’s Watch Tower December, 1881 page 3 (R302) (137 years ago)

Let us, dearly beloved, see to it, that we not only bury ourselves and our wills in Christ’s, but also keep our bodies under–dying daily until fully delivered into the blessed kingdom –which deliverance we believe to be so very nigh at hand.

— Zion’s Watch Tower September, 1880 page 2 (page R134) (138 years ago)

Let us, dearly beloved, live up to our covenant, and not only bury ourselves and our wills in Christ’s, but also keep our bodies under–dying daily until fully delivered into the blessed kingdom–which deliverance we believe to be so very nigh at hand.

DATES AND CLOSE TO THE END

(Matthew 24:36) Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.

(Matthew 25:13) Keep on the watch, therefore, because YOU know neither the day nor the hour.

(Mark 13:33) Keep looking, keep awake, for YOU do not know when the appointed time is.

(Acts 1:7) He said to them: “It does not belong to YOU to get knowledge of the times or seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction.

(2 Thessalonians 2:1, 2) However, brothers, respecting the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we request of YOU not to be quickly shaken from YOUR reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us, to the effect that the day of Jehovah is here.

Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance (1897) p.625 “The beginning of the earthly phase of the Kingdom in the end of A.D. 1914 will, we understand, consist wholly of the resurrected holy ones of olden time-from John the Baptizer back to Abel-“Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the holy prophets.”

The Time is at Hand, 1908, pg 101 – the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev.16:14) which will end in A.D. 1914, with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.

The Time is at Hand, 1916, “Another Line of Testimony” – In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished near the end of A.D. 1915.

The Finished Mystery, 1917, pg 398, 399, 485 – the people who are the strength Of Christendom shall be cut off in the brief but terribly eventful period beginning in 1918 A.D. A third part are “burned with fire in the mist of the city.” …..After 1918 the people supporting churchianity will cease to be its, supporters, be destroyed as adherents,… Also in the year 1918, when God destroys the churches wholesale and the church members by the millions…

The Finished Mystery (1918) p.60 “William Miller, in the year 1829, was privileged to see approximately the correct date for the setting up of the abomination of desolation (539 A. D.), and for the beginning of the Time of the End (1799 A. D.)”

Date	Russell’s		Pyramid
Foreshown	Event Works		Passages
Spring 1621	Diet of Worms. Z 95-180		28
Fall 1846	Evangelical Alliance. C 95-119		14-52
Fall 1874	Second Advent of the Lord. B 178-247		16-22-50
Spring l878	Favour to Jews & sleeping Saints C 233		17-28

The Finished Mystery (1918) p.79

Our proposition is that the glorification of the Little Flock In the Spring of 1918 A. D. will be half way (three and one half years each way) between the close of the Gentile Times and the close of the Heavenly Way, A. D. 1921.

Millions Now Living Will Never Die (1920) 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 chapter eleven, to the condition of human perfection.”

Millions Now Living Will Never Die p.97 “1925 shall mark the resurrection of the faithful worthies of old.”

Millions Now Living Will Never Die (1920) p.111 “We may see that the forty years wandering of spiritual

Israel began the fall of 1881.”

w24 1/1 p. 5 para 15

If we assume that the harvest of the wheat class, namely, the saints, began with the beginning of the second presence of our Lord in 1874, then would it be unreasonable to conclude that the harvest must continue for fifty symbolic days, or fifty literal years? If so, then we might expect the harvest to end fifty years after 1814, or with the year 1924…

If this be true, then surely with confidence the saints now on earth can announce with the opening of this year, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand,” because all the members of the royal line are about completed for the kingdom. Surely there is not the slightest room for doubt in the mind of a truly consecrated child of God that the Lord Jesus is present and has been since 1874; that the harvest has been in progress during that time; that most of the saints have now been gathered. … Do not all the physical facts about us indicate just exactly what we expected during the concluding hours of the church’s earthly pilgrimage?

Face the Facts (1938) pp.46,50 “Would it be Scripturally proper for them to now marry and to begin to rear children? No, is the answer, which is supported by the Scripture . Those Jonadabs who now contemplate marriage, it would seem, would do better if they wait a few years, until the fiery storm of Armageddon is gone”

w52 12/1 p. 709 we know that we face the imminent end of the present world system

1966 Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God

According to this trustworthy Bible chronology six thousand years from man’s creation will end in 1975, and the seventh period of a thousand years of human history will begin in the fall of 1975.

jv chap. 28 p. 632 Testing and Sifting From Within

…would point to the spring of 1878 as the time when he [Jesus] would assume his power as heavenly King. They also thought they would be given their heavenly reward at that time.

rs p. 97 par. 2 Dates

Before the last members of the generation that was alive in 1914 will have passed off the scene, all the things foretold will occur, including the “great tribulation” in which the present wicked world will end.

rs p. 200 par. 4 Jehovah’s Witnesses some who saw the events of 1914 will also see the complete destruction of the present wicked world;

g86 11/8 pp. 7-8 A Sure Hope for the Present Generation

“For the year 2000, I visualize a world transformed into a beautiful paradise! But I don’t think that either the present world or its rulers will live to see that day. . . . We are living in the last days of the system of things.”

g95 6/22 p. 9 Can You Trust God’s Promises?

Bible Students, known since 1931 as Jehovah’s Witnesses, also expected that the year 1925 would see the fulfillment of marvelous Bible prophecies. They surmised that at that time the earthly resurrection would begin, bringing back faithful men of old, such as Abraham, David, and Daniel. More recently, many Witnesses conjectured that events associated with the beginning of Christ’s Millennial Reign might start to take place in 1975…

true Christians will maintain a waiting attitude in obedience to Jesus’ command. They will not allow

false predictions to dull their senses and cause them to ignore the true warning of the world’s end.

w99 11/1 p. 6 When Does the Third Millennium Begin?

Nevertheless, some religious fundamentalists have great expectations for the year 2000. They believe that during the next few months, portions of the book of Revelation will have a literal fulfilment. Indeed, they see themselves as sharing personally in that fulfilment.

w11 2/15 p. 17 par. 22

God’s day of judgment “upon all those dwelling upon the face of all the earth” is imminent.

w13 1/1 p. 8 Box – HAVE JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES GIVEN INCORRECT DATES FOR THE END?

“Jehovah’s Witnesses have had wrong expectations about when the end would come. Like Jesus’ firstcentury disciples, we have sometimes looked forward to the fulfilment of prophecy ahead of God’s timetable.”

Notes: WHO have had wrong expectations? The GB? The FDS? No, it’s ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’.

Did Jesus early disciples ever write their wrong expectations down and make everyone else believe them?

Why hypocritically condemn others for their own wrong dates and ‘false predictions’ (g95 above!)? :

*** w93 6/1 p. 13 par. 1 Be Sound in Mind—The End Is Close ***

“Doomsday deadlines have come and gone, but doomsayers remain undaunted.”

WHO IS GODS CHANNEL OF COMMUNICATION TODAY?

The WT magazine – w55 1/15 p. 46 Part 2—Small Beginnings (1879-1889)

Truly now for many decades this journal has proved to be a channel of spiritual communication that is singular and divinely blessed.

The Remnant – w55 5/15 p. 315 par. 33 Christian Channel of Communication

The evidences, therefore, are overwhelming that the anointed Christian remnant among Jehovah’s witnesses today comprise the collective channel of communication.

The Anointed as a Group – w56 1/1 p. 29 Serving with Jehovah’s Channel of Communication

Among the evidences pointing to the anointed Christian witnesses of Jehovah as a group being that channel are these:…

The F&DS – w57 6/15 p. 370 par. 7 Overseers of Jehovah’s People

Let us now unmistakably identify Jehovah’s channel of communication for our day, that we may continue in his favor. Listen to the inspired answer to the situation, in Matthew 24:45-47 (NW): “Who really is the faithful and discreet slave…”

The Remnant – w57 5/1 p. 275 par. 7 Show Respect for Jehovah’s Organization those Christians still on earth in the flesh who are engaged to be married to Christ. These would serve

as her representatives and would therefore be easily recognizable by their conformity to God’s requirements for his visible channel of communication.

Dedicated, Anointed Servants – w58 8/15 p. 488 The Watch Tower Society in God’s Purpose his dedicated and anointed servants who are the true channel of communication of Jehovah God today

The F&DS – w59 10/1 p. 583 Have You Been Baptized for Life?

Christ has a composite “faithful and discreet slave,” the remaining ones of the body of Christ, to represent him. This slave serves as God’s channel of communication.

The New World Society of JW’s – w62 4/1 p. 215 Our Activation by Jehovah’s Spirit

The facts show that that channel is found with the New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses

The WT Magazine – w63 7/1 p. 399 par. 12 Maturity, a Christian Requirement

…The Watchtower? Do we ever overlook or skip some articles of this main organ of communication that Jehovah God is using today? Do we recognize that the instructions given through this channel are so vital that our very lives depend upon our heeding them?

Gods Visible Organisation – w64 5/1 p. 286 Do You Remember? his visible organization or earthly channel of communication

The Slave Class – w65 6/1 p. 331 par. 13 Joyfulness All the Day Long

This “slave” class serves as an earthly channel of communication for God’s people

All anointed – w66 1/15 p. 44 par. 10 The Value of Right Association Through Congregational Meetings anointed spirit-begotten witnesses of Jehovah, comprising the “faithful and discreet slave,” serve as an

earthly channel of communication for the great crowd

The F&DS – w69 1/15 p. 51 par. 14 Are You Ready for the Responsibilities of a Baptized Witness?

a “faithful and discreet slave” class who would be providing the spiritual food to God’s family of devoted

servants on earth, acting as his channel of communication

The F&DS Class – w70 5/1 p. 269 par. 17 Keep Close in Mind “The Conclusion of the System of Things”

God would have on the earth a “faithful and discreet slave” class serving as his channel of communication

Jesus – w75 7/1 p. 413 par. 26 Be Steadfast in Prayer

As we absorb more and more of Jehovah’s thoughts and ways, we will have a deeper insight into the

One to serve and obey, and we will appreciate to the full the fine relationship possible with him and his Son, our channel of communication

The F&DS – w81 12/1 p. 27 par. 4 The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter

Jehovah God has also provided his visible organization, his “faithful and discreet slave,” made up of spirit-anointed ones, to help Christians in all nations to understand and apply properly the Bible in their lives. Unless we are in touch with this channel of communication that God is using, we will not progress along the road to life, no matter how much Bible reading we do.

Jesus – w83 10/1 p. 21 Do You Respect the Name of Christ?

Jesus is the key figure in Jehovah’s channel of communication to mankind.

The F&DS Class – w84 7/1 p. 15 par. 8 “The Battle Is Not Yours, but God’s”

Has Jehovah provided a corresponding channel in the midst of his people today? To be sure, he has! Jesus made mention of this in his prophecy on “the conclusion of the system of things” in referring to the anointed “faithful and discreet slave” class

The F&DS – w91 9/1 p. 19 par. 15 Jehovah and Christ—Foremost Communicators that faithful and discreet slave has also been called God’s channel of communication.

The F&DS – w94 10/1 p. 8 The Bible—A Book Meant to Be Understood the “greatly diversified wisdom of God” can become known only through Jehovah’s channel of communication, the faithful and discreet slave.

The Christian Congregation – w00 10/15 p. 22 Have I Made the Holy Spirit My Personal Helper?

Once the Christian congregation was founded at Pentecost 33 C.E., Christ’s followers became the “nation producing its fruits.” From then on, this congregation was God’s channel of communication.

The F&DS – km 9/02 p. 8 par. 5 Avoid the Pursuit of “Valueless Things”

God’s Appointed Channel: Bear in mind that our heavenly Father has an appointed channel of communication, “the faithful and discreet slave.”

The Bible – w05 7/15 p. 4 True Teachings That Please God

Can any human with a life span of a few decades personally reach all mankind and serve as a channel of communication from God? No. But a permanent written record can. Therefore, would it not be appropriate that the revelation from God be made available in the form of a book? One of the ancient books claiming inspiration by God is the Bible.

The Faithful Slave – w06 7/15 p. 22 par. 16 Focus on the Goodness of Jehovah’s Organization

The ‘faithful slave’ may eventually publish something that answers our questions and clears up our doubts. It is wise to seek the help of Christian elders. (Jude 22, 23) Prayer, personal study, and association with spiritually-minded fellow believers can also help to remove doubts and can deepen our appreciation for the faith-strengthening Bible truths we have learned through Jehovah’s channel of communication.

Jesus – w07 5/15 p. 6 Finding Hope in a World Full of Distress

Christ continues to be the “Wonderful Counselor,” serving as the principal figure in Jehovah’s channel of communication to mankind.

The Slave Class – w09 11/15 p. 14 par. 5 Treasure Your Place in the Congregation

By word or action, may we never challenge the channel of communication that Jehovah is using today. (Num. 16:1-3) On the contrary, we should cherish our privilege to cooperate with the slave class

Note: Compare this to what Governing Body member Geoffrey Jackson told Angus Stewart of the Australian Royal Commission on 14th August 2015.

This interview was streamed live for millions to watch, and has since been archived in both video and transcript versions:

Angus Stewart: And do you see yourselves as Jehovah God’s spokespeople on earth?

Geoffrey Jackson: That, I think, would seem to be quite presumptuous to say that we are the only spokesperson that God is using.

Like mediators between God and men, the Governing Body are in the number 1 position at the top of the world!

Note: But after this public statement in court, the Governing Body were quick to reverse it to re-establish their exclusive role as God’s sole channel:

w16 Dec p.16 Par. 9

Some may feel that they can interpret the Bible on their own. However, Jesus has appointed the ‘faithful slave’ to be the only channel for dispensing spiritual food. … Each one of us does well to ask himself, ‘Am I loyal to the channel that Jesus is using today?’

Q9. What is the only channel that is being used to help us understand God’s Word?

w18 Apr Questions From Readers

“Jehovah has entrusted the responsibility of providing spiritual food to “the faithful and discreet slave” alone.

WHAT DOES “BREAKING THE BREAD” SYMBOLIZE?

The Congregation – w54 3/15 p. 174 Celebrating the Lord’s Evening Meal

To which body was Jesus referring here? To his fleshly body? Hardly, for concerning it we read that not a bone was broken, whereas Jesus broke the loaf. (John 19:36) Rather, he was referring to his spiritual body, the Christian congregation, which in the Scriptures is termed a body or Christ’s body more than forty-five times. That this is the correct conclusion is apparent from Paul’s words: “The loaf which we break, is it not a sharing in the body of the Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, although many, are one body, for we are all partaking of that one loaf.” Clearly the loaf pictures not Jesus’ fleshly body but his body members, the Christian congregation

Jesus Body – w2013 15/12 Page 25 para 10

The bread that the apostles could see and would soon partake of meant Jesus’ body. Which body? At one time, God’s servants felt that because Jesus broke the bread but none of his own bones were broken, the bread meant “the body of the Christ,” the congregation of anointed ones. (Eph. 4:12; Rom. 12:4, 5; 1 Cor. 10:16, 17; 12:27) In time, however, it was appreciated that both reason and Scripture indicate that the bread represents Jesus’ human body, which had been prepared for him. Jesus “suffered in the flesh,” even being impaled. Thus, at the Lord’s Evening Meal, the bread represents that physical body in which Jesus “bore our sins.”

WHO’S ORGANIZATION?

w50 7/1 p. 204 Steps Toward Life

Fleeing from Satan’s organization and seeking refuge under Christ’s organization means that such a one acknowledges the Lord Jesus Christ and asks Christ to take him in.

w50 10/15 p. 382 “Be Fruitful, Multiply, Fill the Earth”

And what is that provision? It is God’s organization…

w52 4/15 p. 250 par. 7 Aids for Understanding Prophecy

Finally, in Revelation 7:4-8 there are listed the twelve tribes of spiritual Israel which comprise Christ’s theocratic kingdom organization.

w52 3/1 p. 143 par. 20 Propriety of Disfellowshiping there is no reason that he should be overly sad thinking that he could never get into God’s

organization again

w58 7/15 p. 445 par. 16 Beware that You Do Not Lose Your Place!

your proper place is—under Christ’s easy yoke of service, pulling with him and his organization

w59 8/15 p. 486 The Festival of Freedom

Christ’s blood does not mean deliverance to unbelievers outside God’s organization

WHO DOES THE “TWELVE TRIBES OF ISRAEL” REFER TO (Mt 19:28)?

All humans: w57 2/15 p. 111 Righteous World Re-created

All humans who undergo testing during and at the end of the thousand years of Christ’s reign are the ones spoken of as “the twelve tribes of Israel,” in Matthew 19:28.

The Great Crowd: w72 3/15 p. 167 The Year’s Greatest Celebration—Will You Be There?

In contrast, there is associated with this remnant “a great crowd” of about one and a half million whose hopes are to live on earth forever to be subjects of the Kingdom

The world of mankind: it-2 pp. 1125-1126 Tribe

It is not reasonable that Jesus meant that they would judge the 12 tribes of spiritual Israel later mentioned in Revelation, for the apostles were to be part of that group. Consequently, “the twelve tribes of Israel” mentioned at Matthew 19:28 and Luke 22:30 evidently represent “the world” of mankind

Those with an earthly hope: w11 9/15 p. 11 par. 2 Are You Letting Jehovah Be Your Share?

In this verse, “the twelve tribes of Israel” are those who will be judged by Jesus’ anointed disciples and who are in line to receive eternal life in Paradise on earth.

WHO IS “MOTHER”?

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w96 6/1 p. 9 par. 3 The Serpent’s Seed—How Exposed?

“The woman” is not Eve but Jehovah’s heavenly organization, the mother of his spirit-anointed servants on earth.

The WT Society – w86 12/15 p. 23 par. 11 “Jehovah Our God We Shall Serve”

When the “great crowd” appeal to their “mother” organization for help, this is given instantly and in good measure. The alacrity with which Jehovah’s Witnesses get things done is seen also in many other ways—as in setting up relief measures immediately after natural disasters and in quickly building needed Kingdom Halls and other places of assembly for dispensing “food.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w85 3/15 p. 14 par. 18 Working With the Organizer…

Jesus Christ, who had God’s heavenly organization as his “mother,” was greater and wiser than King Solomon,

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation plus the anointed on earth– w85 3/15 p. 18 par. 9 At Unity With the Creator of the Universal Organization

In other words Zion or Jerusalem, God’s organization, is the mother which gives birth to the new nation, or governing factors. The anointed ones on earth are a part of ‘the woman’, and surely represent her.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation but not the anointed on earth – w85 10/15 p. 30 Q. F. R. As individuals who are “born again,” they become spiritual sons of Jehovah. (John 3:3, 5; Romans 8:15-17) Jehovah is their Father. Yet they have also a “mother,” for the apostle Paul wrote that “the Jerusalem above . . . is our mother.” This must be a reference to a heavenly organization of loyal spirits whom Jehovah views as a figurative “wife.” (Galatians 4:26) When anointed Christians receive their heavenly reward, they actually take their place in that heavenly organization.

The anointed remnant on earth are not yet literally a part of “Jerusalem above.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w83 8/1 p. 22 par. 3 “Israel of God” and End of the Gentile Times

He acknowledged “the Jerusalem above,” that is, the celestial Jerusalem, as his spiritual mother. Along with those Galatian Christians, Paul was one of “her children.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w82 7/1 p. 20 par. 4 What Birth of the Nation Has Meant… This invisible organization is, for the remnant, a “mother,” the “Jerusalem above.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation plus the anointed – w81 5/1 p. 22 pars. 19-20 If God Has an Organization, What Is It?

Since this symbolic “woman” was made pregnant by God as her husband, she must picture God’s spiritual organization. This organization provides the personnel of that heavenly kingdom, not only the glorified Jesus Christ, evidently acting under the role of Michael the archangel, but also his spiritual “brothers,” who are also the “brothers” of God’s spiritual organization.—Rev. 12:10, 11.

20 There is yet a remnant of these spiritual “brothers” on our woebegone earth.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation plus the WT society – w71 9/1 p. 526 par. 8 Fortify Yourself So as to Maintain Integrity

Contrary to the advice of the organization of Jehovah’s witnesses,… They do not listen to their parents and they do not listen to their heavenly Father, Jehovah, and their “mother,” Jehovah’s wifelike organization.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w66 2/1 p. 91 What City Is Christianity’s Center?

They look to the great Rock, Jehovah God, the Greater Abraham, and to the free woman, their spiritual mother above, who is the spiritual Zion, and to his theocratic organization for direction.

The WT Society – w65 9/1 p. 529 par. 15 Jehovah Blesses the Putting of His Kingdom First

The various branches of the ‘Witnesses’ in USSR keep in close touch with one another. Contact is maintained with the help of letters in which a simple but highly characteristic code language is used. ‘Family’ stands for the Jehovist branch organization, ‘mother’ for the organization as a whole…

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w62 8/1 p. 457 par. 6 Building a Happy Family

Jehovah God himself is spoken of as a husband, the head of his universal family circle. His wife, the mother of his vast family, is the mother of everyone in this universal organization, and the children are his loyal subjects of such a union

The Earthly Organisation – w61 2/15 p. 126 Pursuing My Purpose in Life

These thoughts spoke to my heart, because that was the very thing I had been longing for ever since I learned the truth. The theocratic organization, like a tender mother, offered me that opportunity.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation plus the Anointed – w61 5/1 p. 282 The Decalogue’s Principles Ever Valid

Besides that, all Christians have Jehovah God as “our Father,” and his heavenly organization,

Jerusalem, as “our mother.” These, above all else, they are to honor and obey. Logically, included in such honor and obedience are the earthly representatives of the heavenly Father and mother.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w61 11/15 p. 683 par. 9 United Publishers of the “Word of Life”

She was God’s symbolic wife, namely, his universal organization of invisible, heavenly, holy, spirit creatures or angels.

The WT Society – w59 11/1 p. 668 Pursuing My Purpose in Life

Constantly I saw the Branch servant in England for his counsel, since I looked upon the organization as my “spiritual mother.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation plus the WT Society– w57 5/1 p. 274 par. 3 Show Respect for Jehovah’s Organization

It is through his organization that God provides this light that the proverb says is the teaching or law of the mother. If we are to walk in the light of truth we must recognize not only Jehovah God as our Father but his organization as our mother.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w57 5/1 pp. 274-275 par. 5 Show Respect for Jehovah’s Organization

The real mother of Christians is not and can not be an earthly organization

The Governing Body and Elders – w57 5/1 p. 280 par. 1 Trust Your Proved, Faithful Brothers

Our Father holds mother responsible for our training and that is why Paul wrote: “Be obedient to those who are governing you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as those who will render an account”

The Governing Body – w57 5/1 p. 282 par. 8 Trust Your Proved, Faithful Brothers

We all know we must always seek to advance in theocratic education and conduct. We constantly receive counsel from God’s organization through the columns of The Watchtower telling us how we should conduct ourselves in theocratic living. Now if we immediately forget these things and refuse to apply them in our daily lives—not even making the effort—how disrespectful that is of the teaching or law of our mother!

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w54 12/15 p. 754 par. 19 Prospects of Fearers of Jehovah for 1955

By this action the “servant” class heed the command that applies to Zion, their heavenly mother, and hence to themselves as her spiritual children

The Anointed – w52 2/1 p. 80 par. 12 Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today

Now some may ask, Should we accept as from the Lord and true the food provided through the discreet slave, or should we withhold acceptance until we have proved it for ourselves? If we have gained our present understanding of the Bible by feeding at the table set by the slave, if we have been thereby freed from false doctrines and built up in the clean and undefiled worship of God and given a new world hope, we should have some confidence in the slave’s provisions. After being nourished to our present spiritual strength and maturity, do we suddenly become smarter than our former provider and forsake the enlightening guidance of the organization that mothered us? “Forsake not the law of thy mother.”

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation and the WT society – w51 3/15 p. 166 Praise Jah! You Who Attend the Memorial

For example, in chapter 54 of Isaiah it says that God’s maternal organization, “our mother,” would be expanded with the influx of so many children that the figurative tent cords would have to be stretched out to the very limits. Down through the years the Watch Tower Society has spread out until today its sixtythree branch offices have “tent stakes” located in 115 countries, islands, provinces and different territorial divisions of the nations.

Jehovah’s heavenly organisation – w50 9/1 p. 279 par. 12 Taking In Life-giving Knowledge

The apostle Paul shows that this woman is Jehovah’s Theocratic organization and that her children are Jesus Christ and his body of faithful followers,

IS IT ADVISABLE TO HAVE CHILDREN?

NO – w1887 Feb. Vol VIII R901 pg.3

The time is short; so that they [of us] who have wives should be as if they had none. The establishing of an earthly home and the rearing of an earthly family, which is generally regarded as the principal business of life, should not be the ambition of the saints…

NO – w1938 Nov. 1, p. 324)

“…mark the words of Jesus, which definitely seem to discourage the bearing of children immediately before or during Armageddon….It would therefore appear that there is no reasonable or scriptural injunction to bring children into the world immediately before Armageddon, where we now are.”

NO – Face the Facts (1938) pp.46,50

“Would it be Scripturally proper for them to now marry and to begin to rear children? No, is the answer, which is supported by the Scripture. Those Jonadabs who now contemplate marriage, it would seem, would do better if they wait a few years, until the fiery storm of Armageddon is gone”

NO – Children (1941) p. 312-313

“Should men and women, both of whom are Jonadabs or “other sheep” of the Lord now marry before Armageddon and bring forth children? They may choose to do so but the admonition or advice of the scriptures appears to be against it… That would appear to indicate it would be proper that those who will form the “great multitude” should wait until after Armageddon to bring children into the world.”

YES – w50 10/15 p. 383 “Be Fruitful, Multiply, Fill the Earth”

Since the carrying out of the command to “be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth” waits until after Armageddon, does that mean that those who now marry and rear children are violating God’s laws? No, for the Scriptures show that “marriage is honourable in all”

YES – w51 6/15 p. 362 On Service Tour in New Zealand

From the Scriptures it was shown that it is proper for Christians to marry and the purpose of marriage is the rearing of children.

NO – w71 4/1 p. 214 Preach God’s Kingdom with the Right Viewpoint

In modern times, among the many examples that might be cited is that of the young American couple that had settled down in a fine home and were planning to raise a family. Then one day the husband came home and said to his wife: ‘Just what difference is there between us and the people of Christendom? We are contenting ourselves with mere token service when there is nothing to keep us from being in the fulltime ministry. Let’s quit our secular jobs, sell our home and enter the full-time pioneer ministry.’ His wife gulped, for she had been looking forward to the joys of motherhood, to bearing and rearing a number of children. But she went to Jehovah in prayer and asked his help. And he did help her. So they entered the pioneer ministry and in a few years were invited to attend the Gilead missionary school.

NO – w88 3/1 pp. 21-22 par. 17 Childbearing Among God’s People

Interestingly, during all this pre-Flood period, Noah’s sons and their wives had no children. The apostle Peter specifically states that ‘eight souls were carried safely through the water,’ that is, four married couples but no children. (1 Peter 3:20) The sons’ remaining childless was possibly for two reasons. First… they had a divinely appointed job to do that required their undivided attention. Second, they doubtless felt disinclined to bring children into… a world “full of violence.” This is not to say that the course of action taken by Noah’s sons and their wives before the Deluge was meant to set the rule for married couples living today. Nevertheless, since Jesus compared Noah’s day to the period in which we are now living, their example can provide food for thought.

IT’S YOUR CHOICE – w88 3/1 p. 26 par. 14 Responsible Childbearing in This Time of the End

So the matter of childbearing in this time of the end is a personal one that each couple must decide for itself. However, since “the time left is reduced,” married couples would do well to weigh carefully and prayerfully the pros and cons of childbearing in these times.

NO – Jeremiah book (2010 – Studied 2013) chap 8 p.94-95 par. 7 Will You “Keep Living,” as Did Jeremiah?

6 What relevance is there in God’s command that Jeremiah not marry or have children? Today, some loyal Christians are unmarried or have no children. Consider first that Jeremiah was to remain childless. Jesus did not command his followers to abstain from having children. Yet, it is noteworthy that he pronounced “woe” on pregnant women or those nursing a baby when tribulation came on Jerusalem in 6670 C.E. That time would be especially difficult for them, given their situation. We now face a greater tribulation. This should add a dimension for Christian couples who are deciding whether to have children. While each couple must decide if they will have children, Jeremiah’s case is worth considering.

Note: If JW’s aren’t meant to have children, where did Caleb and Sophia come from?

NO – w2016/4 p.9 Par.17 Being Faithful Leads To Gods’ Approval

17. (b) How do the words at Hebrews 6:10-12 encourage you to be self sacrificing?

Thousands of young Christian men and women are willingly sacrificing marriage or are not having children—at least for now—in order to serve Jehovah to the full. Older ones too may be sacrificing the time they could otherwise spend with their children and grandchildren in order to work on theocratic construction projects or to attend the School for Kingdom Evangelizers and to serve in areas where the need for Kingdom publishers is greater… Such wholehearted service brings deep joy to Jehovah, who will never forget their work and the love shown for him. (Read Hebrews 6:10-12) Would it be possible for you to make additional sacrifices to serve Jehovah more fully?

Note: 130 years after first being told not to, JW’s are still being cautioned against having children.

Besides, in the new system there will be no children:

– Golden Age 1930, April 2. Page 446 Bible Questions and Answers

“The Scriptures do not reveal what the relationship of men and women will be after the resurrection is completed. The most that we know is that there will be no children born during the last 100 years of the Millennium (Isa. 65: 20), nor any born after that, because men and women do not have children after they reach the age of 100 years.”

CARBON 14 DATING IS?

Unreliable – w52 11/1 p. 644 par. 5 Efforts to Undermine the Bible

That the present carbon clock figures may not be final was recognized by the symposium, for the Times reported: “Carbon dating techniques may be subject to revision later …”

Reliable – w59 4/15 p. 243 Christianity’s Origin and the Dead Sea Scrolls

Not without good reason these scrolls have been described as the “greatest manuscript discovery of modern times.” They have been definitely dated as of the second century B.C. by experts in the fields of archaeology, paleography (the science of deciphering ancient writing) and the carbon-14 process.

Unreliable – g71 4/8 p. 31 Watching the World

“Radioactive Dating Unreliable”

Unreliable – g72 4/8 p. 17 Scientific or Bible Chronology—Which Merits Your Faith?

The structure of carbon-14 dates was found to be so rickety farther back in time that it needed emergency support—tree-ring counting. Will you put faith in such a structure?

Reliable – g75 1/8 p. 22 An Interesting Tour of the Vatican

C-14 testing supports the ninth century C.E., some 700 years after Peter died, as being the date of it.

Unreliable – w76 5/1 p. 267 Insight on the News

But physicist R. Brown of Andrews University claims that this radiocarbon dating method is highly inaccurate. After a ten-year study, he concludes that radioactive carbon atoms did not exist in the earth’s atmosphere in significant amounts before 2000 B.C.E. and so cannot be used to date objects before then.

Reliable – w81 1/15 p. 26 Insight on the News

However, the “Post” observes: “What many believe to be the ‘acid test’ for the shroud, carbon dating, has so far been resisted by the Church on grounds it would destroy part of the cloth.”

Unreliable – g81 11/22 p. 15 How Old Are the Fossils?

Wise to accept carbon-14 dates only when they can be calibrated with historical materials

Reliable – g86 9/22 p. 24 The Radiocarbon Clock

But if we can count all the carbon-14 atoms now, without waiting for them to decay, we can gain a millionfold in sensitivity. … Now such articles can be dated with just milligrams of sample.

Unreliable – g86 9/22 p. 22 The Radiocarbon Clock

The most serious fault in radiocarbon-dating theory is in the assumption that the level of carbon 14 in the atmosphere has always been the same as it is now.

Reliable – g95 5/8 p. 6 Clues to the Mystery of the Iceman

“C-14 tests… confirmed he had lived between 4,800 and 5,500 yrs ago,” stated magazine Audubon.

Reliable – w11 6/1 p. 21 When Was the Bible Written?

Copies or fragments of these Bible books, with the exception of the book of Esther, are among the Dead Sea Scrolls. Dating done by carbon 14 (radioactive carbon) and paleography (the study of ancient scripts) confirms that the oldest of these scrolls are from about 200 B.C.E. to 100 B.C.E.

Reliable – w13 2/1 p. 14 What Is the “Gospel of Judas”?

Carbon-14 dating authenticated the codex as likely coming from the third or the fourth century C.E.

HOW TO VIEW THE CROSS

PROMINENTLY – w1891 to w1931 “cross and crown” symbol appeared on the Watchtower front cover

THE POWER OF GOD – w1879 Oct Vol.I No.4 R42 p.7

“preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but to us that are saved it is the power of God.”

BASIS OF ALL GLORY – w1879 Oct Vol.I No.4 R42 p.7 The cross is the basis of all the glory.

BEAUTIFUL – w1916 July 1 Vol. XXXVII No.134 R5919 p.203

How beautiful is the Gospel of the Cross

UNNECESSARY (BUT NOT WRONG!) – (1928) yb75 pp. 148-149 Part 2—United States of America

…reflecting on the 1928 Bible Students convention in Detroit, Michigan, Brother Suiter writes: “At the assembly the cross and crown emblems were shown to be not only unnecessary but objectionable. So we discarded these items of jewelry.” Some three years thereafter, beginning with its issue of October 15, 1931, The Watchtower no longer bore the cross and crown symbol on its cover.

THE PATH TO RESURRECTION – w1930 6/1 p.173 Par.6

It is the death of Jesus on the cross that entitles every man to a resurrection

INCORRECT – Riches (1936) p.27

Jesus was crucified, not on a cross of wood, such as is exhibited in many images and pictures, and which images are made and exhibited by men; Jesus was crucified by nailing his body to a tree.

HEATHENISH – w51 8/15 p. 485 When Christianity Went Underground

Even the heathenish cross, claimed by Christendom as the very symbol of Christianity

APOSTATE – w57 3/15 p. 168 Did Christ Die on a Cross?

As apostate Israelites worshiped the copper serpent, so the cross has been worshiped by apostate Christians.

PHALLIC – w60 2/15 p. 126 The Cross in Worship

The cross was often associated in ancient times with phallicism, or sex worship.

PAGAN – w68 2/1 p. 94 The Cross Is of Pagan Origin

The cross used by the churches of Christendom has not the remotest connection with Christianity. It is instead a sacred symbol belonging to ancient pagan religions

IDOLATRY – w00 1/1 p. 9 par. 15 Serving With the Watchman in the 1920’s many Bible Students wore a pin featuring a cross-and-crown emblem and they celebrated Christmas and other pagan holidays. However, for worship to be pure, all vestiges of idolatry must be discarded. God’s Word, the Holy Bible, must be the sole basis of the Christian’s faith and way of life.

IDOLATRY – w11 3/1 p. 20 Did Jesus Really Die on a Cross?

Instead of introducing some religious symbol or image into their worship, Paul instructed his fellow Christians to “flee from idolatry”

Note: What would Paul make of the jw.org symbol then?

And as of July 2017 the WT website even tells us that no one can say what Jesus died on:

THE CROSS AND CROWN

1888 Bible Readings For The Home Circle p. 29 “A remarkable Symbol”

(Note: This is a Seventh Day Adventist publication)

Masonic York Rite Jewellery:

First Church of Christ (Christian Scientists):

Methodist Church, Macon, Georgia USA, later installed in Angels Episcopal Church, Eatonton, Georgia USA.

w1891 February Vol.XII No.2 R1288: p. 29

“The emblem of the cross and crown is an appropriate and beautiful design to be worn by the TOWER.”

Note: The cross and crown symbol is on Charles Taze Russell’s burial pyramid (above), and is also widely found in Lutheran churches, Catholic churches and Eastern orthodox Christianity.

Watchtower sold cross and crown pins and badges, and used the image as their magazine masthead from its very beginning until October 15, 1931.

WHAT HAS BEEN ‘REVEALED’ TO US BY GOD?

• w07 11/1 pp. 29-30 par. 12 Searching Into “the Deep Things of God”

A second example of deep things that have been revealed to us concerns God’s purpose to select 144,000 from among mankind. 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. What Bible texts prove that this understanding is correct?

NOTE – This has since been revealed to be untrue, and no Bible texts can prove it was correct.

• gu (1999) p. 12 par. 22 How Man Turned Away From God’s Guidance

The name Jehovah means “He Causes to Become.” This indicates that he causes himself to become the fulfiller of promises, the one who always brings his purposes to realization. This very name, which God took upon himself and has disclosed to us, is a guarantee that he will always bring his purposes to realization and will fulfill his promises.

NOTE – It has since been revealed by the WT that the name is more accurately translated Yahweh

• wj (1993) chap. 9 p. 21 par. 8 Identifying God-Inspired Truth Only in the Bible has he revealed to us his name, JEHOVAH.

NOTE – It has since been revealed by the WT that the name is more accurately translated Yahweh

• w85 6/1 p. 17 par. 7 Walk With Confidence in Jehovah’s Leadership

By means of his written Word and the holy spirit, God revealed to his modern-day servants that the year 1914 marked the end of uninterrupted rule by Gentile nations and also the heavenly enthronement of the glorified Jesus Christ, God’s choice as King over all mankind.

NOTE – This was not revealed until long after 1914. For around 50 years it was revealed to be 1874.

• w84 9/1 pp. 17-18 pars. 14-15 Lining Up With “Jehovah’s Mind” as Now Revealed

Since that eventful year of 1935 the members of that “great crowd” have been associating with the remnant of those Kingdom heirs, who are walking before Jehovah God with a complete heart. 15 In such a way all of us, as disciples of the Son of God, our Fine Shepherd, are lining up with Jehovah’s “mind” as it is now revealed to his dedicated, baptized worshipers. How grateful we can and should be that the Most High God in heaven has disclosed to us what came first to his “mind” and which did not originate with any man of flesh and bones!

NOTE – It has since been revealed that 1935 was NOT the cut off date for anointed ones, and revealed that we do NOT use the term ‘remnant’ any longer.

• go (1977) chap. 2 pp. 32-33 par. 35 The Governor Who Knows the End from the Beginning

This same God, Jehovah, has made known his thoughts concerning all the nations now acting on this twentieth-century world stage, and what he has thought concerning them is what we of this generation are certain to see occur in our time. His own private counsel he has revealed to us.

NOTE – Nothing happened in the 20th century and our ‘generation’ teaching was revealed to be false.

• w76 7/15 p. 435 pars. 15-16 Keeping a Balanced View of Time

Just as surely as the generation living and hearing Jesus’ warning in the first century was the generation that experienced a fulfillment of his words, just as surely will this generation—the generation seeing the major fulfillment of his “sign” identifying the last days of this system of things—be the generation to experience the global tribulation due to come.—Matt. 24:34.

16 What, then, has God revealed to us about this? He certainly has not left us without guidance. NOTE – The uneventful passing of time has since revealed this to be just as surely false.

• w68 12/1 p. 730 A Life of Blessings in Jehovah’s Service

Meanwhile Jehovah had revealed to his people that the time of his temple judgment was here, and “lightnings and voices and thunders” proceeded from his heavenly temple, causing a purifying of his “sanctuary” class on earth. An “evil slave” class was eliminated from the ranks of the faithful Witnesses. NOTE – It has since been revealed that there is no such thing as a sanctuary class, and the evil slave was revealed to be only a hypothetical construct.

• w55 5/1 p. 285 par. 26 Keep Your Place

And so it is with Jehovah’s dealings with mankind today. Jehovah has made wonderful provisions—the ransom sacrifice, a theocratic organization with a “faithful and discreet slave” class, one revelation after another of his truths revealed to his people.

NOTE – It has since been revealed that there is no such thing as a faithful and discreet slave class.

• w53 8/15 p. 493 par. 3 Living Now as a New World Society

Long in advance he even disclosed to them by his Word that the time for the Kingdom to assume power in heaven and in earth was A.D. 1914

NOTE – He actually incorrectly disclosed long in advance that Jesus would assume power in 1874.

These quotes prove that God does not reveal these things at all, but they obviously originated with ‘man of flesh and bones’ (w84 9/1 p.18 above). It is blasphemy to claim these false teaching were from God!

WHERE DO OUR (FLIP FLOPPING) TEACHINGS COME FROM?

The WT stated in 1993 that their false predictions were not from Jehovah:

— g93 3/22 p. 4 Why So Many False Alarms? —

“Jehovah’s Witnesses, in their eagerness for Jesus’ second coming, have suggested dates that turned out to be incorrect. Because of this, some have called them false prophets. Never in these instances,

however, did they presume to originate predictions ‘in the name of Jehovah.’

Never did they say, ‘These are the words of Jehovah.’ “

But what does their continual archive of the last 80 yrs reveal? Who’s words are in the WT publications? …

— WT 1931 November 1 p. 327; 1936 March 15 p. 85) THE WATCHTOWER publishes “no man’s opinion”.

— PREPARATION 1933 pp. 36-37, 64 Angels deliver what is published.

— w1936 3/1 p. 73

If one does not believe The Watchtower is used by the Lord to transmit to his people the truth, then that one should not attempt to serve in God’s organization. If he does believe that the Lord uses The Watchtower to dispense his truth to his people, then in order to be faithful he will be diligent in carrying out the instructions of the organization.

— w1942 11/01 p.331 Par.43

As with Jephthah’s selection, so it has been with the WATCH TOWER SOCIETY. The Society did not select itself to be the visible part of Jehovah’s Theocratic organization on earth, but the Lord God, by Christ Jesus, did so.

— w1943 July 1 pp. 202-203

Nothing is interpreted but the interpretation comes from God and is then published.

— w1947 5/15 p.157 para 35

This pouring out of God’s spirit upon the flesh of all his faithful anointed witnesses does not mean those now serving as Jehovah’s witnesses are inspired. It does not mean that the writings in this magazine The Watchtower are inspired and infallible and without mistakes. It does not mean that the president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society is inspired and infallible, although enemies falsely charge us with believing so. We leave it for the pope of Vatican City to claim infallibility, and therefore divine inspiration.

— w52 4/1 p. 206 par. 24 Pinning the Blame on the One Responsible

Therefore the study of his Word the Bible and the Bible helps which the Lord is now providing through the Watchtower Society is very necessary.

– w54 9/1 p. 532 par. 13 Recognizing the Theocratic Organization for Life –

Hence in order to render complete recognition of the theocratic organization today, we have to take recognition of this “faithful and discreet slave” that the returned Lord and Judge has appointed over all his belongings. We cannot sidestep this.

— 56/1 Informant p.1 par. 1 Serving With Jehovah’s Channel of communication

Jehovah is the source of all knowledge. When he speaks, all should listen and learn. And how does he speak? Through his appointed channel of communication – his collective congregation of anointed ones… The Watchtower magazine [is] the main instrument used to dispense Jehovah’s communications.

— w56 1/15 p. 63 Part 4—The “Triumphant Kingdom” Assemblies of 1955

God has not been stingy with us; at this series of summer assemblies we have received five new releases, five new theocratic publications by the Watch Tower Society.

— w56 8/15 p. 499 par. 8 Maintaining Integrity

This magazine and kindred publications are Jehovah’s provision on his table, and we should be ungrateful were we to neglect or despise such provision.

— w57 6/15 p. 370 par. 7 Overseers of Jehovah’s People

It is vital that we appreciate this fact and respond to the directions of the “slave” as we would to the voice of God, because it is His provision.

— w58 8/1 p. 474 par. 6 Baptism

It is only through his channel of communication that Jehovah now is using that an individual obtains accurate knowledge of the truth.

— w59 5/1 p. 269 par. 7 “To hold to the headship of Christ, it is therefore necessary to obey the organization that he is personally directing. Doing what the organization says is to do what he says.

Resisting the organization is to resist him.“

— w64 5/1 pp. 277-278 par. 8 Building a Firm Foundation in Christ

It is through the columns of The Watchtower that Jehovah provides direction and constant Scriptural counsel to his people, and it requires careful study and attention to details … Any other course would produce independent thinking and cause division.

— w64 9/15 p. 574 Experiencing Jehovah’s Love

“… and do you know the first thing that Ma and I do when we get that Tower? We kneel down before we take the wrapper off and ask Jehovah to make us worthy to see what the message is that Jehovah has for us. Now, before we take the wrapper off, will you kneel down and pray with us?”

— w68 5/15 p. 303 par. 2 “Fear the True God and Keep His Commandments” to be pleasing to Jehovah one has to recognize the earthly channel that God is using to dispense

accurate knowledge to people of all the world. … down to this day Jehovah is dealing with those whom he has approved to represent him upon the earth. … Thus the person desiring to do Jehovah’s will must associate with the “slave” organization that is charged with the oversight of everything belonging to the Master, Christ Jesus.

— w70 5/1 p. 285 Missionaries Counseled to Hold to “The Way”

God, through his Word and by such publications as Watchtower, helps Christians to walk in His way

— The Nations Shall Know (1971) p.58-59

Who, then, are the group of persons who, towards the beginning of “this time of the end”, were commissioned to serve as the mouthpiece and active agent of Jehovah?

— w73 5/15 p. 310 par. 12 Leaving the City of Refuge Means Loss of Life

God’s law is clearly defined for us in his Word and through the Bible publications that he has provided to understand his will and purpose for mankind in the time of the end

— km 5/80 p. 6 Bethel Service

Revelation [9:16-19] describes 200,000,000 colorful horses with heads of lions and tails of serpents. … What do these two hundred million horses symbolize? They picture the Bibles, Bible-study-aid books, booklets, magazines and tracts that tell of the destruction to come upon Christendom in God’s day of vengeance. (fm p. 244) This publication of Bible literature is under the direction of the anointed remnant.

— w81 10/15 p. 25 par. 13 Sacred Service as a Family

Jehovah has provided his Word the Bible and publications furnished by the “faithful and discreet slave”

— w87 7/15 pp. 18-19 par. 13 Prayers Require Works

Without help from this “slave,” we would neither be able to understand the full import of what we read nor know how to apply what we learn.

— w90 12/15 p. 26 ‘Seeking Delightful Words, Correct Words’

In our day the Greater Congregator, Jesus Christ, has provided spiritual resources far beyond those enjoyed by God’s people under ancient Israelite kings. For over a century, delightful, correct words of truth covering every aspect of life have been presented in the Watch Tower Society’s publications and widely distributed in many languages.

— w93 9/15 p. 22 They Compassionately Shepherd the Little Sheep if we were to draw away from Jehovah’s organization, there would be no place else to go for salvation

— w94 10/1 p.8 The Bible—A Book Meant to Be Understood

Even as Bible prophecy pointed forward to the Messiah, it also directs us to the close-knit body of anointed Christian Witnesses that now serve as the faithful and discreet slave… All who want to understand the Bible should appreciate that the “greatly diversified wisdom of God” can become known only through Jehovah’s channel of communication, the faithful and discreet slave.

— w97 7/1 p. 27 Are You God’s Friend?—What Your Prayers Reveal through his written Word, publications of the faithful slave class, or the mouths of loving brothers and

sisters, [Jehovah] may provide you with needed advice or direction.

— w98 7/15 p. 31 Do You Have “an Obedient Heart”?

As Jehovah teaches us through the Bible, Christian publications, and congregation meetings, may we pay attention, apply what we learn, and be “obedient in all things.”

— w99 10/1 p. 18 par. 6 You Can Endure to the End

Our main source of spiritual nourishment is his Word, the Bible. Should we not maintain a good Biblereading schedule? Through “the faithful and discreet slave,” Jehovah has also provided the timely journals The Watchtower and Awake! and other Bible-based publications.

— w00 12/1 p. 11 par. 9 Jehovah Empowers the Tired One

Just as we must eat to maintain physical strength, we need to take in spiritual food provided by God through his Word and Christian publications to maintain our spiritual strength.

— w01 1/15 p. 7 How We Can Cultivate Virtue

Jehovah has provided his Word and Bible-based publications.

— w01 8/1 p. 14 par. 8

Rather, he has complete confidence in the truth as it is revealed by Jehovah God through his Son, Jesus Christ, and “the faithful and discreet slave.”

— w01 8/15 p. 29 par. 16 Do Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine

Take advantage of the provisions Jehovah has made to sustain you spiritually, such as our Bible-based publications.

— w03 3/15 p. 27 ‘The Lips of Truth Will Endure Forever’

Jehovah gives us sound counsel through his Word and through his organization, using the publications provided by “the faithful and discreet slave.”

— w04 12/15 p. 21 par. 19 Do You Accept Jehovah’s Help?

Jehovah brought you that help by means of “the faithful and discreet slave” assigned to provide “food at the proper time.”

— w05 8/15 p. 22 par. 10 Christians Reflect the Glory of Jehovah

We, though, understand that Jehovah is teaching his people and that the understanding of divine truth has always been progressive.

— w05 11/1 p. 20 par. 18 Jehovah Is Our Shepherd

Through the faithful and discreet slave class, Jehovah has provided us with helpful publications and rich programs at meetings, assemblies and conventions, all of which fill our spiritual need. There is certainly no shortage of spiritual food. “The faithful and discreet slave” has produced millions of Bibles and Bible study aids, and such publications are now available in 413 languages. Jehovah has provided this spiritual food in great variety—from “milk,” basic Bible teachings, to “solid food,” deeper spiritual information.

— w07 1/1 p. 28 par. 11 “The First Resurrection”—Now Under Way

It seems that resurrected ones of the 24-elders group may be involved in the communicating of divine truths today.

— w08 4/15 p. 7 par. 19 Repudiate “Valueless Things”

Elders do not go beyond the things that are written in the Bible. And by extension, they do not go beyond the Bible-based counsel written in the publications of the faithful and discreet slave.

— w10 7/15 p. 23 par. 10 “The Spirit Searches Into . . . the Deep Things of God”

When the time comes to clarify a spiritual matter in our day, holy spirit helps responsible representatives of “the faithful and discreet slave” at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood. (Matt. 24:45; 1 Cor. 2:13)

p.17: “Listening to the slave class means giving our full cooperation to its Governing Body.”

p.27: “Since Jehovah God and Jesus Christ completely trust the faithful and discreet slave, should we not do the same?” “The slave thus deserves our complete trust”

p.28: “By all means, then, let us listen to the Christ and his trustworthy spirit-anointed brothers.”

— w10 9/15 p. 8 par. 7 Earnestly Seek Jehovah’s Blessing

We cannot hope to acquire a good relationship with Jehovah if we ignore those whom Jesus has appointed to care for his belongings. Without the assistance of “the faithful and discreet slave,” we would neither understand the full import of what we read in God’s Word nor know how to apply it.

(Note: So Proverbs 2:6 is wrong? “For Jehovah himself gives wisdom; From his mouth come knowledge and discernment.” Or 2Tim 2:7 “the Lord will give you understanding in all things.”)

— w10 9/15 p. 13 par. 8

Similarly today, a Governing Body composed of spirit-anointed Christians contributes to the unity of the worldwide congregation. The GB publishes spiritually encouraging literature in many languages. This spiritual food is based on God’s Word. Thus, what is taught is not from men but from Jehovah.

— w10 9/15 p. 23 par. 8 “Your Leader Is One, the Christ”

The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modernday Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ.

— si p. 9 par. 16 (2011) “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial”

(1) Jehovah God originates his utterances; (2) then his official Word, or Spokesman—now known as Jesus Christ—often transmits the message; (3) God’s holy spirit, the active force that is used as the medium of communication, carries it earthward; (4) God’s prophet on earth receives the message; and (5) he then publishes it for the benefit of God’s people.

— w12 9/15 p. 22 par. 16 Learn From the Patience of Jehovah and Jesus

Well, a person who lacks confidence that the end is near might start to make alternate arrangements, so to speak, in case things do not work out as Jehovah said they would.

— w12 9/15 p. 24 par. 4 “You Know Neither the Day Nor the Hour”

As the end of this system draws ever closer, the work of pointing to Jehovah’s provisions for salvation has never been more important.

— w12 11/15 p. 17 par. 9 Cultivate the Spirit of a Lesser One

A humble person has heartfelt gratitude for Jehovah’s provisions, including spiritual food. Hence, such an individual is a diligent student of the Bible and an avid reader of the Watchtower and Awake!

magazines. Like many other faithful servants of Jehovah, he may make it a practice to read each new publication before putting it away on a bookshelf in his personal library. When we manifest humble appreciation by reading and studying our Bible-based publications, we make spiritual advancement, and Jehovah is able to use us more fully in his service.

— w13 4/15 p12 par 11 Do not tire out

Jehovah has provided a bounteous supply of written spiritual food to give us strength. No doubt, you can think of a time when after reading a publication, you thought: ‘That is exactly what I needed! It is as if Jehovah had that written just for me!’ That is not a coincidence. Through these provisions, Jehovah does instruct and guide us.

— w14 8/15 “Hear Jehovah’s Voice Wherever You Are” 2

… In effect, Jesus also conveys Jehovah’s voice to us as he directs the congregation through “the faithful and discreet slave.” We need to take this guidance and direction seriously, for our everlasting life depends on our obedience. 16

Many servants of Jehovah have avoided disaster by listening to Jehovah during our meetings.

— AGM 2015 Closing remarks – David Splane

“Well, what do you think? Was it worthwhile attending this annual meeting today? (big smile, applause).

We thank Jehovah for all of the spiritual food that he has provided… All credit, all praise goes to Him.”

If the WT refuse to accept being called False Prophets, they can rightly be called False Teachers: 2 Peter 2:1 “However, there also came to be false prophets among the people, as there will also be false teachers among YOU. These very ones will quietly bring in destructive sects and will disown even the owner that bought them, bringing speedy destruction upon themselves.”

We are told in Awake 2/11 p. 22 and w71 5/15 p. 292 that “God does not contradict himself”. Who, then, is responsible for all of the contradictions and changes we are taught in the WT?

Are the GB ‘God’s mouthpiece’ as they have claimed, or ‘just imperfect men’? They seem to be both, depending on what they are writing. How do we know when they switch from being one to the other?

“How can we protect ourselves against false teachers? The Bible’s counsel regarding how to deal with them is clear. (Read Romans 16:17; 2 John 9-11.) ‘Avoid them,’ says God’s Word. Other translations render that phrase ‘turn away from them,’ ‘keep away from them,’ and ‘stay away from them!’ There is nothing ambiguous about that inspired counsel.” – w11 7/15 p. 16 par. 6 Will You Heed Jehovah’s Clear Warnings?

Take a lesson from King Herod:

Acts 12:21-23 “But on a set day Herod clothed himself with royal raiment and sat down upon the judgment seat and began giving them a public address. ²² In turn the assembled people began shouting: “A gods voice, and not a mans!” ²³ Instantly the angel of Jehovah struck him, because he did not give the glory to God;”

— it-1 p. 339 Blasphemy

“Blasphemy includes the act of claiming the attributes or prerogatives of God, or ascribing these to another person or thing.”

The WT is no different to any other book writers – w51 7/15 p. 419 Jehovah’s Word Endures Forever!

PRACTICALLY all books grow old and out of date. Either they are revised and corrected or they are discarded as relics of the past. Thousands simply die with their authors.

SOME NOTABLE QUOTES FROM WT PUBLICATIONS

“A new view of truth never can contradict a former truth. ‘New light’ never extinguishes older ‘light’ but adds to it.” Charles Russell in Zion’s Watchtower, Feb. 1881, p.3

“the path of the just shines more and more until the perfect day.” It shone some away back in Enoch’s day, and has been increasing ever since; not, that light yesterday is darkness today; but, there is more light today, by which we can still better appreciate that of yesterday. – Object and Manner -1887 p. 5

“The anointed remnant of spiritual Israel have been cleansed of past derelictions in matters of worship, and their field of worship has become pure and blessed like the original Eden.” w51 10/15 p. 639 QFR

— w42 1/1 p5 “Those who are convinced that The Watchtower is publishing the opinion or expression of a man should not waste time in looking at it at all, because a mans opinion proves nothing except when that opinion is based wholly upon the Word of God. Those who believe that God uses The Watchtower as a means of communicating to his people, or of calling their attention to his prophecies, should study The Watchtower with thankfulness of heart and give Jehovah God and Christ Jesus all the honor and credit”

— WT 2/1/1956, p.88. We may not tell untruths in his name, for that puts God in the light of a liar. “Let God be found true, though every man be found a liar.” (Rom. 3:4, NW) In Jeremiah’s day the false prophets prophesied lies in Jehovah’s name and lied against his purpose, foretelling in his name what he had not foretold. Therefore Jehovah was against them. He executed judgment against them at Jerusalem’s destruction in 607 B.C. (Jer. 23:25; 27:15) Religious liars like them today cannot escape a like judgment but will meet a like end at Armageddon.

“Truth does not contradict itself or deny the facts. It does not go contrary to reality… It does not change because of location or time. The truth is provable by actual fact. The truth endures, persists, because it is genuine, actually existing, in harmony with reality.” –Things in Which it is Impossible for God to Lie p. 2

— w58 10/15 p. 613 What Will Armageddon Mean for You?

“SOMETIME between April 15 and 23, 1957, Armageddon will sweep the world! Millions of persons will perish in its flames and the land will be scorched.” So prophesied a certain California pastor, Mihran Ask, in January, 1957. Such false prophets tend to put the subject of Armageddon in disrepute.

— Watchtower 11/15/1963 “The true religion of the one God does not disagree with itself, deny itself or get divided with itself. If it had internal disagreement, contradiction and disunity, it could never stand; it could not be simple truth; it would disagree with the scientific laws of the universe; it could not triumph in the long-drawn-out conflict between true religion and false. “

— w64 6/15 p. 355 Strive to Be Consistent —

The Bible, man’s only sure guide, does not gloss over inconsistency; it does not wink at it or condone it. Rather, throughout its pages it strongly condemns inconsistency. How bluntly Jesus, the Son of God, exposed the inconsistency of the religious leaders of his day!

— w64 11/1 p. 645 Wolves in Sheep’s Covering

To his first-century disciples Jesus sounded a warning that applies to us today with even greater force:

“many will come on the basis of my name, saying… ‘The due time has approached.’ Do not go after them.” (Luke 21:8) The apostle Paul disclosed two giveaway signs of deception, namely, a twisting of the words of truth and a lack of the spirit of tender affection… Add to this the multitudes of nominal Christians who have placed their own personal ideas and selfish desires ahead of the teaching of Christ, and who have to that extent usurped the position of Christ as the authoritative Teacher of the Christian congregation… If you do not want to be exploited by selfish, wolflike men masquerading as sheeplike Christians, men who suavely discourage you from making a thorough study of God’s Word,… Shun the company of those who have dethroned Christ Jesus in their lives and set up in his place their own imperfect opinions.

*** ts chap. 5 p. 46 What Is This Thing Called “Soul”? ***

“It is obvious that the true God, who is himself “the God of truth” and who hates lies, will not look with favor on persons who cling to organizations that teach falsehood. And, really, would you want to be even associated with a religion that had not been honest with you?”

*** cj chap. 5 p. 197 Chapter 5 – But let your Yes mean Yes, and your No, No

Furthermore, when a Christian engages in thoughtless, frivolous oaths, people will be far less inclined to believe what he says when he is bearing witness to God and his purposes through Christ. For one to use God’s name indiscriminately or lightly, or to be continually affirming statements with oaths, smacks of hypocrisy and turns others away from the form of worship that one advocates.

— Awake, Oct. 8, 1968. “True, there have been those in times past who predicted an ‘end to the world,’ even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The ‘end’ did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying. Why? What was missing? …Missing from such people were God’s truths and evidence that he was using and guiding them,”

— g70 4/22 p. 8 Changes That Disturb People

“Yes, millions of persons have been shocked to learn that things they were taught as being vital for salvation are now considered by their church to be wrong. Have you, too, felt discouragement, or even despair, because of what is happening in your church? A businessman in Colombia, expressed the effect the changes have had on many.”Tell me,” he asked, “how can I have confidence in anything? How can I believe in the Bible, in God, or have faith? Just ten years ago we Catholics had the absolute truth, we put all our faith in this. Now the pope and our priests are telling us this is not the way to believe any more, but we are to believe ‘new things.’ How do I know the ‘new things’ will be the truth in five years?”

— w72 4/1 p.197

“it is easy to say that this group [Jehovah’s Witnesses] act as a ‘prophet’ of God. It is another thing to prove it. The only way that this can be done is to review the record. What does it show?”

— g74 12/22 p. 10 Will You Act on the Truth? “What Will YOU Do?”

What should a person do when he comes to realize that the church to which he belongs does not harmonize with Bible truth? Instead of clinging to it with a misguided sense of loyalty, lovers of truth do well to follow the examples of Bible characters like Ruth the Moabitess and the apostles and other disciples of Jesus who, once they realized that their forms of worship did not please the Creator, abandoned them in favor of true worship. (Ruth 1:16, 17; Gal. 1:14, 21-24; 1 Pet. 1:18) Will you act on the truth as they did?

— w75 6/1 p. 324 Millions Have Left the Churches—Should You?

“The reasons that people give for abandoning the churches are many and varied. More often, the reason involves changes in Roman Catholic teaching in recent years. These have confused many persons who thought that they had the true apostolic religion. As one Catholic priest in the U.S. put it: “If the things the Church has said in the last 10 years are true, then everything it said for the last 2,000 years is false.”

— WT 5/15/76 p.298 “It is a serious matter to represent God and Christ in one way, then find that our understanding of the major teachings and fundamental doctrines of the Scriptures was in error, and then after that, to go back to the very doctrines that, by years of study, we had thoroughly determined to be in error. Christians cannot be vacillating – ‘wishy-washy’ – about such fundamental teachings. What confidence can one put in the sincerity or judgment of such persons?“

— w81 12/1 p.27 “However, it may have seemed to some as though that path has not always gone straight forward. At times explanations given by Jehovah’s visible organization have shown adjustments, seemingly to previous points of view. But this has not actually been the case. This might be compared to what is known in navigational circles as “tacking.” By manoeuvring the sails, the sailors can cause a ship to go from right to left, back and forth“

— w81 12/1 p. 31 par. 19 The Path of the Righteous Does Keep Getting Brighter

Of course, such development of understanding, involving “tacking” as it were, has often served as a test of loyalty for those associated with the “faithful and discreet slave.”

— w83 4/1 p. 16 Insight on the News

Surely, the Bible’s advice to distinguish between facts and what is “falsely called ‘knowledge'” is the course of wisdom.—1 Timothy 6:20.

— w92 8/1 p.17 (this “tacking” and “right to left, back and forth” was condemned as ‘uncertainty’) : “…to run “not uncertainly” means that to every observer it should be very evident where the runner is heading. The Anchor Bible renders it “not on a zigzag course.”

— w89 3/15 p. 19 par. 4 Insight That Jehovah Has Given

Because they really loved the truth and gave attention not merely to a few favorite Bible verses but to the entire Word of God, Jehovah gave them insight that unmistakably set them apart from Christendom.

— 1989 You Can Live Forever In Paradise On Earth, pgs. 32-33

How would you feel if proof is given that what you believe is wrong? For example, say that you have a road map, but you have not taken time to check it carefully. Someone has told you the road to take. You trust him, sincerely believing that the way he has directed you is correct. But suppose it is not? What if someone points out the error? What if he, by referring to your own map, shows that you are on the wrong road? Would pride or stubbornness prevent you from admitting that you are on the wrong road? If you learn from an examination of your Bible that you are traveling a wrong religious road, be willing to change.

— w90 12/15 p. 26 ‘Seeking Delightful Words, Correct Words’

For over a century, delightful, correct words of truth covering every aspect of life have been presented in the WT’s publications and widely distributed in many languages. Many families and individuals have thus been able to accumulate in their own homes a library of reliable reference works that focus on the Bible. In addition, most congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses have fine libraries for use at their Kingdom Halls.

— w97 4/15 p. 30 Do You Eat Well Spiritually?

Taking in teachings infected by dangerous demonic ideas can poison us just as easily as can eating physical food that has been tainted with germs or toxins. It is not always easy to spot poisonous food…

So we do well to examine the source of our figurative food, bearing in mind that some literature, such as apostate writings, may be infected by the introduction of unscriptural teachings and philosophies.

— w97 5/1 p. 8 par. 1 Identifying the Right Kind of Messenger:

“JEHOVAH GOD is the Grand Identifier of his true messengers. He identifies them by making the messages he delivers through them come true. Jehovah is also the Great Exposer of false messengers. How does he expose them? He frustrates their signs and predictions. In this way he shows that they are self-appointed prognosticators, whose messages really spring from their own false reasoning—yes, their foolish, fleshly thinking!”

(Q: In the last 130 yrs, what religious group has had more signs and predictions frustrated than the WT?)

— g00 6/22 p. 9 Do Not Be a Victim of Propaganda!

THERE is a difference—a big difference—between education and propaganda. Education shows you how to think. Propaganda tells you what to think. Good educators present all sides of an issue and encourage discussion. Propagandists relentlessly force you to hear their view and discourage discussion. Often their real motives are not apparent. They sift the facts, exploiting the useful ones and concealing the others. They also distort and twist facts, specializing in lies and half-truths. Your emotions, not your logical thinking abilities, are their target.

The propagandist makes sure that his message appears to be the right and moral one and that it gives you a sense of importance and belonging if you follow it. You are one of the smart ones, you are not alone, you are comfortable and secure—so they say.

— w03 2/1, p.32

For us to be acceptable to God, our sincere beliefs must be based on accurate information.

— w04 2/15 p. 17 par. 10 Guard Against Deception we recognize that our knowledge of God’s purpose is not perfect; our understanding has undergone

adjustments over the years.

— w04 3/1 p. 6 True Christianity Is Flourishing

Like Timothy, true Christians today are keeping their senses by rejecting human reasoning and by accepting only Scriptural authority for their doctrinal beliefs. (Colossians 2:8; 1 John 4:1)

— w10 9/1 p. 13 Guard Against Being Deceived

Like Cervantes’ Don Quixote who was deceived by his own fanciful imagination, that man was deceived because he thought he could build a solid, secure house on a shaky, shifting foundation of sand. Instead, be like the man who “built his house upon the rock-mass.” —Matthew 7:24-27.

— yb11 p. 9 Highlights of the Past Year

In our time, Christ’s anointed brothers use the Writing Department in Brooklyn, New York, to provide spiritual information in the form of magazines, brochures, books, and other printed and electronic material. This spiritual food, like physical food, has to be well prepared. Even Bible writers, who were directed by holy spirit, made sure that they recorded information that was thoroughly researched and accurate. The Writing Department follows the pattern of ‘tracing all things with accuracy.’

— WT 2011 Jul 15 p.12 “We are determined to be loyal to Jehovah and to his organization. This organization has never disappointed us and always gives us an abundance of pure waters of truth from God’s Word.”

–WT (simplified) 2011 Jul 15 p.24 par.9

We need to obey the faithful and discreet slave to have Jehovah’s approval.

— WT 2012 15/06 p.28 para 11: “We never get bad advice from the Bible. Humans, on the other hand, are simply not wise enough to recommend what always works. (Jer. 10:23) Their advice is constantly being revised and updated as they come to realize that earlier advice was flawed. “The thoughts of men,” says the Bible, “are as an exhalation.”— Ps. 94:11”

— (2014) Draw close to Jehovah ch 27 p. 277 par. 18

Dishonesty has become the way of the world today. But the Bible reminds us: “God is not a man that he should tell lies.” Thus, Jehovah’s promises are completely reliable; his words, always sure of fulfillment. Jehovah is even called “the God of truth.” (Psalm 31:5) Not only does he refrain from telling falsehoods but he dispenses an abundance of truth.

Note: New Light is actually often New Hindsight. Something fails? New Light. Time runs out? New Light. It is also interesting that when a JW discerns an error in a Watchtower teaching it is regarded as “doubting Jehovah” or apostasy. Yet when the Governing Body does it, it is regarded as “new light”.

THE GOLDEN CALF

— it-1 p. 1167 Idol, Idolatry

An idol is an image, a representation of anything, or a symbol that is an object of passionate devotion, whether material or imagined. Generally speaking, idolatry is the veneration, love, worship, or adoration of an idol. It is usually practiced toward a real or supposed higher power, whether such power is believed to have animate existence (as a human, animal, or an organization) or is inanimate.

— it-1 p. 1172 Idol, Idolatry

Servants of Jehovah must guard themselves from idols. It was foretold that great pressures would be brought to bear against all inhabitants of the earth to worship the symbolic “wild beast” and its “image.”

— w95 9/15 p. 9 par. 5 Jealous for the Pure Worship of Jehovah

Aaron complied and made a calf out of gold that the people provided. It was claimed that this idol represented Jehovah.

— w68 5/15 p. 303 par. 2 “Fear the True God and Keep His Commandments” to be pleasing to Jehovah one has to recognize the earthly channel that God is using to dispense

accurate knowledge to people of all the world. … Jehovah is dealing with those whom he has approved to represent him upon the earth. A person recognizing who Jehovah God and his Son Jesus Christ are, and what the holy spirit represents, needs to appreciate also that Jehovah God has on this earth in this time a visible organization representing his interests. Jesus spoke of such a group as a “faithful and discreet slave.” Thus the person desiring to do Jehovah’s will must associate with the “slave” organization that is charged with the oversight of everything belonging to the Master, Christ Jesus.

— w07 4/1 p. 24 Loyal to Christ and His Faithful Slave – “Showing Due Respect for the Faithful Slave”

Therefore, when we loyally submit to the direction of the faithful slave and its Governing Body, we are submitting to Christ, the slave’s Master. Our showing due respect for the instrument Christ is using to manage his earthly belongings is one way in which we “openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”—Philippians 2:11.

For this reason, all in the congregation view it as their sacred duty to follow and uphold the direction coming from the faithful slave and its Governing Body. Indeed, the “other sheep” count it a real privilege to assist the slave class in caring for the Master’s interests.—John 10:16.

The humble submission of the other sheep to the anointed members of spiritual Israel was foretold in the prophecy of Isaiah: “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; in fetters they will come over, and to you they will bow down. To you they will pray, saying, “Indeed God is in union with you, and there is no one else; there is no other God.”‘” (Isaiah 45:14) Symbolically, the other sheep today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership.

— w01 6/1 p. 14 par. 11 “If God Is for Us, Who Will Be Against Us?”

“Neither be called ‘leaders,’ for your Leader is one, the Christ. But the greatest one among you must be your minister.” A congregation of brothers precludes having a proud clergy class that honors itself with high-sounding titles and elevates itself above a laity.

— w11 3/1 p. 20 Did Jesus Really Die on a Cross?

Instead of introducing some religious symbol or image into their worship, Paul instructed his fellow Christians to “flee from idolatry”

Note Proverbs 16:18 “Pride is before a crash, And a haughty spirit before stumbling.” FALSE REASONINGS

“Even the Apostles made mistakes”

It is true that the Apostles sometimes made mistakes. Does that mean that it is ok to make mistakes? No.

Is it also okay for other religious leaders to make mistakes, since the apostles made mistakes? No.

And Harold Camping getting the dates wrong for the end of the world in 2012, is that also ok? No. It is fallacious to think that an act is acceptable just because someone else engaged in it.

The point is, that since a JW accepts that the Bible is infallible (w10 9/1 p.12), they also accept that the apostles did not make mistakes when putting doctrine into writing. It is impossible for God to lie.

“The Truth doesn’t change, only our understanding of it changes”

The Truth isn’t being called into question, it’s why we are not teaching the truth that is.

Is it acceptable that our teachings of the Truth are not the truth?

If our teachings are from Jehovah, why are they different to what is actually the Truth?

Is this a valid statement for when Churches change their teachings too?

The congregations are told that we are given food at the proper time. What is proper about serving spiritual food that is not truthful?

“It’s better to make mistakes and stay on the Watch, than fall asleep”

Actually it’s better to stay on the watch and not keep raising false alarms which can be just as dangerous as falling asleep, as made famous by Aesop’s Fable of the Boy who Cried ‘Wolf!’:

*** g93 3/22 p. 3 Why So Many False Alarms? ***

THE story is told of a boy who watched the sheep of the villagers. To stir up a bit of excitement, one day he cried out, “Wolf! Wolf!” when there was no wolf… So it has become with those who proclaim the end of the world. Down through the centuries since Jesus’ day, so many unfulfilled predictions have been made that many no longer take them seriously.

Does the failure of such predictions to come true convict as false prophets those who made them, within the meaning of Deuteronomy 18:20-22?

We have been on the watch for over a century. A real Watch has many shifts so the watchmen do not fall asleep or make bad judgement calls from tiredness and false expectations.

What would you do with a smoke detector that constantly gives off false alarms?

What would you do with an unreliable Watchman? What did the Israelites do? Is it correct to ‘stone’ those who expose the false alarms?

“We need to follow the lead of the FDS”

What is more important, truth or unity? How would Jehovah answer?

1Co 1:10: “…you should all speak in agreement, and that there should not be divisions among you …” vs 12 “But what I mean is this, that each one of you says: “I belong to Paul, But I to Apollos, But I to Cephas, But I to Christ.”

If we say we wish to follow Christ but others in the congregation say: “I to the governing body”, or “I to the Watchtower Society”, or “I to the organization”, who really is causing the division that Paul describes?

“We need to rely on the Slave for our understanding”

Does that mean we mustn’t look into things for ourselves? How did the early Christians understand these:

“Do not put YOUR trust in princes” (RNWT)- Psalm 146:3

“The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step.” Proverbs 14:15

“when he entered the house Jesus got ahead of him by saying: “What do you think, Simon?” -Mt 17:25

Jesus asking them “What do YOU think?” – Matthew 18:12; 21:28

“You must love Jehovah your God with … your whole mind.” – Matthew 22:37

“Now the latter were more noble-minded than those in Thes·sa·lo·ni’ca, for they received the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures” (Ac 17:11)

“keep testing whether you are in the faith ” 2Co 13:5

“present your bodies…a sacred service with your power of reason” Ro 12:1

“think so as to have a sound mind” – Romans 12:3

“go on perceiving what the will of Jehovah is” Eph 5:17

“make sure of the more important things” Php 1:10

“make sure of all things” 1Thes 5:21

“we request of YOU not to be quickly shaken from YOUR reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us” 2Th 2:1, 2

“Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them” 1 Timothy 4:15

“God gave us not a spirit of cowardice, but that of power and of love and of soundness of mind.” 2Tim 1:7

“I am arousing YOUR clear thinking faculties by way of a reminder” 2Pe 3:1

“test the inspired expressions to see whether they originate with God” 1Jo 4:1

“he has given us intellectual capacity that we may gain the knowledge of the true one” 1Jo 5:20

*** w12 8/1 p. 4 Are Miracles Really Possible?—Three Common Objections ***

“As the saying goes, “Just one black swan undoes the theory that all swans are white.””

“Those references you are using are old!”

All of these WT references are from Jehovah’s channel – do you believe the FDS are Jehovah’s channel? If so why would you dismiss something because it is old? The Bible is old, do we dismiss that?

One day in the future, today’s teachings will be old. Will you one day dismiss these the same way as you are dismissing the other ‘old’ teachings? If so, why not just dismiss them right now?

The Society will themselves often refer to early WT references such as these. Do we dismiss those also?

Besides, we are encouraged to use older publications:

• km 1/99 p. 8 par. 2 Make Good Use of Older Books

They Have Real Value: While some of us may feel that these books are out-of-date in comparison with our newer publications, we must remember that they contain Scriptural truth. The Kingdom message that they explain is still valuable today and, if heeded, can be lifesaving. (John 17:3) Therefore, we should put forth an extra effort to make good use of these older books.

• km 1/89 p. 8 par. 3 Presenting the Good News—With Older Publications.

VALUE OF OLDER PUBLICATIONS: During January and February, any of the 192-page books published prior to 1980 may be used. There is a wealth of information in these publications. They can be of real spiritual value to people.

“Wait on Jehovah”

If you refuse to take that admonition then you can quickly be accused of being self willed, proud, presumptuous, running ahead of God’s arrangement, or causing division in the congregation.

‘Wait on Jehovah’ is an excuse for inaction, or to avoid discussing something. It’s an attempt at ending the conversation.

Typically it is used mainly when the credibility of the Watchtower Organization or the leader’s authority is in question.

When some completely incomprehensible new understanding (which is going to be changed in the next Watchtower) is published and people express their concern, they are asked to “wait on Jehovah”. “What is Jehovah waiting for?”

It can mean many things:

Cease acting.

Cease thinking.

Cease feeling.

Cease remembering.

Cease wondering.

Cease talking.

Cease reading.

Cease researching.

Cease being observant.

Cease righteous anger.

Jehovah corrects things via his word, the Bible. The Bible must be the rule and standard, so if it shows that something is wrong then it means Jehovah has exposed it for what it is and we no longer need to wait.

If we get a teaching from the WTB&TS that later changes (like the FDS not yet inheriting all Christ’s belongings), doesn’t that mean that they ran ahead of Jehovah’s chariot and failed to wait on Jehovah?

The Society take action when they need to, like going to court. Are they waiting on Jehovah?

Wait on Jehovah often really means Wait on the Society.

What is the difference between “obey without questioning”, and “Wait on Jehovah”?

When someone says “wait on Jehovah”, what they really mean is “wait on the GB”, not realizing that Jehovah and the Governing Body are quite different.

SOME SCRIPTURES

*** Deuteronomy 18:20-22 ***

However, the prophet who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded him to speak or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. And in case you should say in your heart: “How shall we know the word that Jehovah has not spoken?” when the prophet speaks in the name of Jehovah and the word does not occur or come true, that is the word that Jehovah did not speak. With presumptuousness the prophet spoke it. You must not get frightened at him.

*** Jer 28:15-17 ***

And Jeremiah the prophet went on to say to Han·a·ni’ah the prophet: “Listen, please, O Han·a·ni’ah! Jehovah has not sent you, but you yourself have caused this people to trust in a falsehood. Therefore this is what Jehovah has said, ‘Look! I am sending you away from off the surface of the ground. This year you yourself must die, for you have spoken outright revolt against Jehovah.'”

*** Ezekiel 13:8-9 ***

Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said: “‘For the reason that YOU men have spoken untruth and YOU have visioned a lie, therefore here I am against YOU,’ is the utterance of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah.” And my hand has come to be against the prophets that are visioning untruth and that are divining a lie. In the intimate group of my people they will not continue on.

*** Psalms 107:27 ***

They reel and move unsteadily like a drunken man, And even all their wisdom proves confused.

*** Proverbs 14:15 ***

The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step.

*** Isa 5:18 ***

Woe to those drawing error with ropes of untruth.

*** Isaiah 65:13 ***

This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah says: “Look! My servants will eat, but you will go hungry. Look! My servants will drink, but you will go thirsty. Look! My servants will rejoice, but you will suffer shame.”

*** Matthew 7:15-16, 18 ***

Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to YOU in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. By their fruits YOU will recognize them. Never do people gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles, do they? ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear worthless fruit.

*** Mt 9:16, 17) ***

Nobody sews a patch of unshrunk cloth upon an old outer garment; for its full strength would pull from the outer garment and the tear would become worse. ¹⁷ Neither do people put new wine into old wineskins; but if they do, then the wineskins burst and the wine spills out and the wineskins are ruined.

*** Matthew 12:36-37 *** every unprofitable saying that men speak, they will render an account concerning it on Judgment Day; for by your words you will be declared righteous, and by your words you will be condemned.

*** Acts 17:11 ***

…they accepted the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

*** Colossians 2:3, 4 ***

Carefully concealed in him [Christ] are all the treasures of wisdom and of knowledge. I am saying this so that no one may delude you with persuasive arguments.

*** Colossians 2:8 ***

(Good News Bible) See to it, then, that no one enslaves you by means of the worthless deceit of human wisdom, which comes from the teachings handed down by human beings and from the ruling spirits of the universe, and not from Christ.

*** 1 Corinthians 7:23 ***

You were bought with a price; stop becoming slaves of men.

*** 2Co 11:12-15 ***

Now what I am doing I will still do, that I may cut off the pretext from those who are wanting a pretext for being found equal to us in the office of which they boast. ¹³ For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ And no wonder, for Satan himself keeps transforming himself into an angel of light. ¹⁵ It is therefore nothing great if his ministers also keep transforming themselves into ministers of righteousness. But their end shall be according to their works. *** Galatians 2:18 ***

For if the very things that I once threw down I build up again, I demonstrate myself to be a transgressor.

*** Ephesians 4:14 *** we should no longer be children, tossed about as by waves and carried here and there by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in deceptive schemes.

*** 1 Timothy 4:1-3 ***

However, the inspired utterance says definitely that in later periods of time some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances and teachings of demons, 2 by the hypocrisy of men who speak lies.

*** James 1:7, 8 ***

In fact, let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from Jehovah; ⁸ he is an indecisive man, unsteady in all his ways.

*** James 1:16, 17 ***

Do not be misled, my beloved brothers. ¹⁷ Every good gift and every perfect present is from above, coming down from the Father of the celestial lights, who does not vary or change like the shifting shadows.

*** 2 Peter 2:1 ***

However, there also came to be false prophets among the people, as there will also be false teachers among YOU. These very ones will quietly bring in destructive sects and will disown even the owner that bought them, bringing speedy destruction upon themselves.

*** 2 Peter 3:16 ***

In them, however, are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unsteady are twisting, as [they do] also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.

*** 1 John 4:1 ***

Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired expression, but test the inspired expressions to see whether they originate with God, because many false prophets have gone forth into the world.

*** Ps 12:6 ***

The sayings of Jehovah are pure sayings, as silver refined in a smelting furnace of earth, clarified seven times.

*** John 17:17 ***

Sanctify them by means of the truth; your word is truth.

(Note: So if Gods word is pure, refined and the truth, who’s word is full of error ?)

*** Lu 19:21, 22 ***

He [the Master] said to him, ‘Out of your own mouth I judge you, wicked slave’.

*** 1 John 4:1, 6 ***

Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired statement, but test the inspired statements to see whether they originate with God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

. . .We originate with God. Whoever comes to know God listens to us; whoever does not originate with God does not listen to us. By this we distinguish the inspired statement of truth from the inspired statement of error.

TEACHINGS THAT HAVE REMAINED THE SAME

When you highlight the continual ebb and flow of changing teachings, a JW may refer you to the long held teachings which have never changed. Core doctrines such as the importance of using Gods name, and the teachings on the trinity, hellfire and immortality of the soul all being false. But even here things are not as simple as they appear to be:

God’s Name – w89 3/15 p. 19 par. 6 Insight That Jehovah Has Given

…from its very first year of publication (1879), the Watch Tower gave prominence to the divine name, JEHOVAH.

Trinity – w89 3/15 p. 18 par. 3 Insight That Jehovah Has Given

Building on this foundation, way back in 1882 these dedicated Bible students clearly stated in the Watch Tower: “Our readers are aware that while we believe in Jehovah God and Jesus, and the holy Spirit, we reject as totally unscriptural, the teaching that these are three Gods in one person”.

Hell – w89 3/15 pp. 19-20 par. 8 Insight That Jehovah Has Given

In 1880 the Watch Tower analyzed the original-language words transliterated Sheol and Hades in the Bible and concluded that these designate the grave. It also pointed out that people consigned to Gehenna were destroyed, not tormented.

Immortality of the soul – w89 3/15 p. 20 par. 9 Insight That Jehovah Has Given

In 1894 the Watch Tower raised the question, “Whence then came the popular notion that all human beings possess immortality, innately, inherently?” With insight, it answered: “Scanning the pages of history, we find that, although the doctrine of human immortality is not taught by God’s inspired witnesses, it is the very essence of all heathen religions.”

So why is this not simple? Look again at the highlighted years above.

Please explain, why is it that the ONLY core teachings not to have changed are ones that come from the 1800’s? This is decades before the Faithful and Discreet Slave were appointed by Jesus in 1919.

All of the teachings since the FDS were chosen and approved by Christ have been far more unreliable than the earlier teachings of the non-slave class!

ALL the unique doctrines of JW’s have changed.

The word “unique” is very important here. It is only doctrines unique to JW’s that can make them the “truth”, because if other religions teach them then they also may have the truth.

It is true that a lot of their core teaching has not changed, but these are doctrines shared with certain other religions.

And like the churches they condemn, you must believe what you are told.

Riches (1936) p. 246

If anyone dared to express his opinion contrary to the doctrines taught by the clergy of the Roman Catholic organization, that one was straightway charged with heresy. Early in the eleventh century many persons charged with heresy because they dared hold or express an opinion contrary to the Roman Catholic organization were executed by burning or strangling.

A FINAL THOUGHT

Notice all the above doctrinal corrections to “food at the proper time” that were made since 1919. How then is it plausible that Jesus examined the WT in 1919 and found them worthy of approval?

Besides the above flip-flops, in 1919 they were still celebrating birthdays and Christmas, had a masonic crucifix on the magazines, called the apostles “saints” and Adam “the first Pharaoh”. Both Russell and

Rutherford went to their graves teaching that the Bridegroom had already come in 1874 and made king in 1878, so neither were in expectation of him in 1914 and therefore could not have been “happy” if “on arriving he found them watching for his return.”

They believed strongly in occult Pyramidology, said Tartarus was the Earth’s atmosphere, taught Jehovah lived in the Pleiades, said Samson prefigured socialism (photodrama), and taught that the ancients were to be resurrected in 1925 and so built a mansion (Beth Sarim) for them to live in. They allowed smoking and pictured the Edenic snake with legs. They said the “behemoth” from Job 40 was the stationary steam engine, the “leviathan” from Job 41 was the locomotive and the “valiant men” in Nahum 2:3 are the locomotive conductor and the fireman, and that train travel fulfilled Dan 12:4 “Many will run to and fro”.

They said that spirit mediums grew tentacles, and spirits lived among us wearing tweed and drinking whisky but were not able to bleed (“Talking with the Dead” p. 116-126). They taught the horseman on the white horse in Revelation 6:2 is the Pope, the “7 messengers” in Revelation are Paul, John, Arius, Waldo, Wycliffe, Luther and Russell, the “stars that fell from the heavens” in Revelation 6:13 refers to a meteor shower on November 13, 1833, the “Time of the End” started in 1799, Michael the Archangel is “the Pope of Rome” and the angels are his bishops. The four rivers of Eden represented the little flock, great crowd, ancient worthies and world of mankind.

They declared that all churches would be destroyed by 1918, promised that those alive back then would never die, saluted the flag, worshipped Jesus, said the “Great Crowd” were second class Christians with a heavenly hope, and according to the WT “the end” has been coming “soon” for over 130 years now.

All these teachings were said to be light and truth from Jehovah, were “without question” and “cannot be disputed” (1925 Our Lords Return p.29). Why? wt 1922 Dec 15 p.396 – “those who have seen, held, and taught present Truth, most assuredly have believed that our late beloved leader, Brother Russell, held that position of steward. And this we most certainly hold, both as both a fact and as a necessity of faith.”

The WT disfellowshipped publishers for things which are now ok, and taught many things which would see you promptly disfellowshipped for teaching them today. Today you can be disfellowshipped and shunned, not for disagreeing with enduring Bible truth, but for disagreeing with a current, changeable WT viewpoint.

Simply, you can’t trust what you read in the publications today because tomorrow it will all change again. In fact the only safe doctrine that is continually stated and never changes is “The GB are always right”.

Could it be that 2 Tim 3:7 applies?

(2Ti 3:7) ^“always learning and yet never able to come to an accurate knowledge of truth.”

So is it plausible that Jesus examined the WT in 1919 and found them worthy of approval?

UPDATE JULY 2013: ‘New Light’ states that the WT were examined in 1914 but not appointed over all the Masters belongings, they were found to have “not been choked by Satan’s weeds”, but still in need of 5 years of refinement. Another flip-flop.

So what did happen in 1918 (or 1919) (or 1914!)?

What year did Jesus’ Inspection take place, and what was the immediate outcome?

Inspection year: 1918 Result: Failed Inspection	Watchtower May 15, 1951 page 303
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower November 1,1955 page 633
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower January 15, 1960 page 47
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Failed Inspection	Watchtower February 1, 1972 page 79
Inspection year: 1919 Result: Failed Inspection	Gods K’dom of 1000 Years (1973) p. 231
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Failed Inspection	Yearbook 1975 page 87
Inspection year: 1919 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower Sept 15, 1983 page 20
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Failed Inspection	“Prince of Peace” (1986) page 40 para 8
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower March 15, 1990 page 14
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower May 1, 1993 page 17
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Failed Inspection	Isaiah’s Prophecy II (2001) page 396
Inspection year: 1918 & 1919 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower March 1, 2004 page 17
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower April 1, 2007 page 22 par. 5
Inspection year: 1918 Result: Passed Inspection	Watchtower January 15, 2008 page 24
Inspection year: 1919 Result: Failed Inspection	Watchtower Sept 15, 2012 page 25
Inspection year: 1914 Result: Failed Inspection	Watchtower July 15, 2013 page 23
Inspection year: 1914 Result: Passed Inspection	Steven Lett Oct 2015 AGM

WT TERMINOLOGY

WT Terms used for Incorrect Watchtower Doctrine

“errors” “eagerness”

“misplaced zeal” “unrealized hopes”

“previous failures” “misinterpretations”

“misunderstandings” “our understanding”

“misplaced optimism” “wrong expectations”

“hopes and expectations” “premature expectations”

“misplaced expectations” “disappointed expectations”

“errors in their teachings” “incomplete concepts”

“inaccurate concepts” “serious disappointments”

“formerly cherished views” “mistakes in their understanding”

“views in need of refinement” “an expressed opinion”

“cherished errors” “wrong beliefs”

“old truths” “past truths”

“expectations needing some adjustment” “premature in their expectations”

“clarifications” “misconceptions”

“matters on which corrections of viewpoint have been needed” “mistakes”

WT Terms used for Incorrect Doctrine of Other Religions

“demonic ideas” “demonic teachings”

“divisive teachings” “falsehoods”

“false stories” “false teachers”

“false teachings” “false doctrines”

“false prophets” “false prophecies”

“false religious views” “false religious teachings”

“false religious philosophies” “doctrines with pagan religious roots”

“God dishonouring doctrines of Babylon the Great” “the disfiguring of God”

“nauseating teachings” “God dishonouring”

“pagan doctrines” “godless myths”

“unscriptural teachings” “whorish system of Babylonish religion”

Question: Why does the WT use a different, higher standard to measure other religions, compared to the standard it uses to measure itself?

(Mt 7:1-5) “Stop judging that YOU may not be judged; for with what judgment YOU are judging, YOU will be judged; and with the measure that YOU are measuring out, they will measure out to YOU. Why, then, do you look at the straw in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the rafter in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Allow me to extract the straw from your eye’; when, look! a rafter is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First extract the rafter from your own eye, and then you will see clearly how to extract the straw from your brother’s eye.”

When asked, the WT explained why it condemns other religions so thoroughly:

– w75 2/15 pp. 127-128 Questions From Readers

[Jehovah’s witnesses] are making known what God himself has set forth in his Word. Their exposure of religious error, hypocrisy and bloodguilt serves to help honest hearted people to forsake the world empire of false religion, “Babylon the Great,” and to escape God’s adverse judgment. This exposure is in harmony with the Bible command: “Get out of her, my people, if you do not want to share with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of her plagues. For her sins have massed together clear up to heaven, and God has called her acts of injustice to mind.”—Rev. 18:4, 5.

Hence, in pointing out the failures and sins of false religions, Jehovah’s Christian witnesses are working for the eternal interests of sincere people. Jehovah’s witnesses are also imitating Jesus Christ. Note the strong words that he directed against Jewish religious leaders because of their wrong practices and false teachings: “You have made the word of God invalid because of your tradition.” (Matt. 15:6-8) “They bind up heavy loads and put them upon the shoulders of men, but they themselves are not willing to budge them with their finger.” (Matt. 23:4)

Like their Exemplar Jesus Christ, Jehovah’s witnesses call attention to unscriptural religious traditions and teachings, hypocritical actions and religious exploitation and oppression. At the same time, deep love for their fellowmen moves them to point all to the way of salvation, a way that includes cutting off association with “Babylon the Great” so as not to share with her in her sins and her disastrous end.

CONCLUSION – John 8:32 “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

How is it possible to follow Pauls counsel to Timothy in 2Tim 3:14 (‘You, however, continue in the things that you learned and were persuaded to believe, knowing from whom you learned them’) when the things learned are continually changing? It is impossible.

The term “the light gets brighter” really means that the WT were wrong about something so are now changing their minds about it, and you had better accept those new ideas. That “new light” is funny stuff!

Sometimes it gets brighter, then dark again, then bright again, but that new light is never, NEVER wrong!

So to believe the Society’s teachings is to believe this:

The WT are never wrong, there are no grey areas. What the Bible says is incidental. Either you are 100% with ‘present WT truth’ or you are under suspicion. Every time WT change a teaching there is no apology or sense of wronging those who were expelled for holding beliefs that the WT themselves now follow.

— g00 6/22 p. 9 Do Not Be a Victim of Propaganda!

Education shows you how to think. Propaganda tells you what to think. Propagandists relentlessly force you to hear their view and discourage discussion. They sift the facts, exploiting the useful ones and concealing the others. They also distort and twist facts, specializing in lies and half-truths. The propagandist makes sure that his message appears to be the right and moral one and that it gives you a sense of importance and belonging if you follow it.

It doesn’t matter what the Bible says, what the WT teachings are, or what is true.

All that matters is that you agree with everything, even if it makes absolutely no sense at all.

Anything else and you’re an evil apostate, because conformity and unity trumps Bible truth. The WT has no hesitation in discarding you if you refuse to believe each and every revision.

Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom 1993 p. 641

“Wrong attitudes, beliefs, and practices have gradually been cleared out, and any who have chosen to cling to these have gone with them.”

Yet w2017/2 p. 26 par. 12 tries to excuse the GB’s obvious errors by saying “The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or organizational direction.”

The Bible condemns them

(2 Timothy 3:1-14) … in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be … having an appearance of godliness but proving false to its power; and from these turn away… Such men are completely corrupted in mind, disapproved as regards the faith. … their folly will be very plain to all… But wicked men and impostors will advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled.

(Acts 4:19) But in reply Peter and John said to them: “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, judge for yourselves.”

(2 Thess. 2:4) [The man of lawlessness] stands in opposition and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he sits down in the temple of God, publicly showing himself to be a god.

They condemn themselves.

— w97 9/1 p. 13 Beware of False Teachers! “There will also be false teachers among you.”—2 PETER 2:1.

Wisely, we take note of how false teachers introduce their corrupt thinking. Peter first says that they do it quietly, or in an unobtrusive, subtle way.

The mouthings of false teachers may seem plausible to one who is not spiritually alert, but their words are carefully designed “to buy” people, seducing them into serving the deceivers’ selfish purposes.

Although these corrupt men “consider luxurious living in the daytime a pleasure” and “are spots and blemishes,” they are also devious. They act “quietly,” using “counterfeit words,” as Peter noted earlier.

A Great Battle In The Ecclesiastical Heavens (1915) Judge Rutherford. p. 38 para.4

It has ever been the rule of those entrenched in error to persecute others who bring forth Light and Truth, exposing error.

w51 7/15 p. 419 Jehovah’s Word Endures Forever!

PRACTICALLY all books grow old and out of date. Either they are revised and corrected or they are discarded as relics of the past. Thousands simply die with their authors.

w61 6/1 pp. 348-349 Britain’s Minor Religions

Many sincerely believe that the religion of father should be the religion of son, irrespective of whether it is a correct way of worship or not. As members grow old and die numbers are not replaced by new converts and often the leaders themselves complacently watch the dying embers of their spiritual fire, occasionally warming their hands in a brief revival.

(Matthew 7:18-20) A good tree cannot bear worthless fruit… by their fruits you will recognize those men.