Comments You Will Not Hear at the April 30, 2006 WT Study (March 15, 2006 issue, pages 27-31)(FALSE WORSHIP))
Review comments will be in redWT material from today's WT will be in black
Quotes from other sources will be in quotes boxesw = Watchtower
g = Awake
jv = Proclaimers book
www.biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible (various Bible translations online)
www.reexamine.org (WT publications online)
www.silentlambs.org (child abuse)
www.ajwrb.org (blood issue)
http://www.randytv.com/secret/unitednations.htm (United Nations issue)
KEEP CLEAR OF FALSE WORSHIP!
"Get out from among them, and separate yourselves/ says Jehovah, 'and quit touching the unclean thing. "'-
2 CORINTHIANS 6:17.
Opening Comments
False worship..every religion and every person who is not a JW. How did your relationship with your workmates, neighbors, relatives, friends change? How much time did you spend with them? What about those whose mates were not JWs? Did you find yourself neglecting these people? Do you remember how the WTS and JWs demonized these people. When you prayed for wickedness to end, did you realize you were praying for everyone non-JW to die, including their minor children?
I resisted that as a JW, I personally did not believe that God would kill all those people, that he would look at their hearts, that it was more than wearing the label "JW" that made one truly a Christian, conversely, just because someone said they were a JW, did not make them truly Christian.
I think the WTS is getting more concerned about their members that are spending too much time socializing with non-JWs and non-JW activities. I remember the days after 1975, when significant decreases showed up in 1977 and 1978.
1977--1 percent decrease in publishers (1974, 13.5%; 1975, 9.7%, 1976, 3.7%)
1978--1.4 percent decrease in publishers
1976--50% decrease in baptisms (from 297,872 in 1974 to 95,052 in 1978)
1977--58% decrease in baptisms1978--31% decrease in baptisms
And the WTS spin:
*** yb79 pp. 23-30 1979 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses ***
There has been an overall 1.4-percent decrease in the number of Kingdom publishers. This has had a bearing on the decline in other features of the work as far as the totals are concerned. There are individual countries where increases continue, whereas other lands show a leveling off or a drop in activity. While 95,052 new ones were baptized in expression of their faith, thus declaring themselves to be disciples of Jesus Christ, this has not resulted in a proportionate increase in the number of Kingdom publishers. On the contrary, there were 2,086,698, on the average, who shared in making known the "good news" compared with 2,117,194 the year before. The peak number of publishers came to 2,182,341, which is also below that of last year. It is obvious that for one reason or another a number did not share in giving a witness each month, and others became inactive.
How should we view this situation? There is certainly no need to become unduly disturbed and lose our spiritual balance. As with all other things, Christians let God's Word adjust their thinking and set things straight in their minds. Jehovah always provides them with needed direction in his own time and way. He never forsakes his people. (1 Ki. 8:57; Ps. 94:14) During this new service year, we will confidently look to him, praying for his guidance and working to retrieve any who have strayed. (Matt. 18:12-14) If there are those in our congregations who have slacked their hand, efforts should be made, especially by those who are undershepherds, to encourage them kindly by word and, above all, by setting a good example.-Heb. 12:12, 13; 1 Cor. 11:1.
At the same time, we will have in mind the scriptures that forewarn us of what to expect. Some will stumble and fall away or become unfruitful for various reasons. (Matt. 13:18-22)
START OF ARTICLE
Q1) In what spiritual condition do many sincere people find themselves?
1) MANY sincere people do not know the truth about God and the future of mankind. Not having found answers to their deepest spiritual concerns, they live in confusion and uncertainty. Millions are enslaved to superstitions, rituals, and celebrations that offend our Creator. Likely, you have neighbors and relatives who believe in a fiery hell, a triune God, the immortality of the soul, or some other false teaching.
Sincere people--non-JWs who don't have "the truth" that JWs teach
Millions are enslaved--all non-JWs
celebrations that offend our Creator--everything but the JW memorial on Nisan 14 (maybe wedding anniversaries are okay but not recommended)
fiery hell, a triune God, the immortality of the soul
The few WTS doctrines that have not changed since 1879, Charles Taze Russell, and the beginning of the Watchtower
Q2) What have religious leaders done, and with what result?
2) What is responsible for this widespread spiritual darkness? Ironically, it is religion -specifically the religious organizations and leaders who have promoted ideas contrary to God's thoughts. (Mark 7:7, 8) As a result, many people have been deceived into believing that they worship the true God, while in reality they offend him. False religion is directly responsible for this sad situation.
Widespread spiritual darkness--not just non-Christians but all non-JWs
Religion...religious organizations and leaders...deceived into believing that they worship the true God--only JWs are not deceived
The WTS once taught that all religion is false, until the early 1950's.
*** w51 8/15 p. 511 Questions from Readers ***
· Why has the Watchtower Society suddenly approved the use of the word "religion" relative to the worship of Jehovah's witnesses?-P. L., New York.
Q3) Who is the principal promoter of false religion, and how is he described in the Bible?
3) There is an unseen entity behind false religion. Referring to him, the apostle Paul said: "The god of this system of things has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through." (2 Corinthians 4:4) "The god of this system of things" is none other than Satan the Devil. He is the principal promoter of false worship. "Satan himself keeps transforming himself into an angel of light," wrote Paul. "It is therefore nothing great if his ministers also keep transforming themselves into ministers of righteousness." (2 Corinthians 11:14,15) Satan makes bad things appear good and deceives people into believing lies.
"god of this system of things"...Satan the Devil...thus all non-JWs are worshiping Satan.
Deceives people into believing lies
Such as the WTS telling its members it has consistently taught that the presence of Christ began in 1914? The WTS is deceiving people into believing lies imitating Satan.
*** w93 1/15 p. 5 ‘Caught Away to Meet the Lord’—How? ***
The Watchtower has consistently presented evidence to honesthearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914
Yet
*** w74 8/15 p. 507 No Spiritual "Energy Crisis" for Discreet Ones ***
Hence, when C. T. Russell began publishing a new religious magazine in July 1879, it was called "Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence." It was heralding Christ’s presence as having begun in 1874.
Q4) What did God's Law to ancient Israel say about false prophets?
4) No wonder the Bible strongly condemns false religion! For instance, the Mosaic Law specifically warned God's chosen people against false prophets. Anyone promoting untrue teachings and the worship of false gods was to be `put to death for speaking of revolt against Jehovah.' The Israelites were commanded `to clear out what was evil from their midst.' (Deuteronomy 13:1-5) Yes, Jehovah views false religion as evil. -Ezekiel 13:3.
Warned against false prophets...promoting untrue teachings...put to death
Does the WTS consider itself a prophet?
*** w82 10/1 p. 27 Be as Men Who Are Facing Har-Magedon Unafraid ***
In behalf of such individuals who at heart seek God's rule instead of man's rule, the "prophet" whom Jehovah has raised up has been, not an individual man as in the case of Jeremiah, but a class. The members of this class are, like the prophet-priest Jeremiah, wholly dedicated to Jehovah God through Christ and, by the begettal of Jehovah's holy spirit, they have been made part of "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession." (1 Peter 2:9) 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" at Har-Magedon could not start before this composite "prophet" ends his work.
Have they promoted untrue teachings?
Superior authorities are God and Jesus
Organ transplants are cannibalism and a disfellowshipping offense
The people of Sodom and Gomorrah WILL BE resurrected
People alive in 1914 will be alive to the see the End
Q5) What warnings should we heed today?
5) Jesus Christ and his apostles reflected Jehovah's strong feelings about false religion. Jesus warned his disciples: "Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to you in sheep's covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves." (Matthew 7:15; Mark 13:22, 23) Paul wrote that "God's wrath is being revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who are suppressing the truth." (Romans 1:18) How vital that true Christians heed these warnings and stay clear of anyone who suppresses the truth of God's Word or spreads false teachings!-1 John 4:1.
Men who are suppressing the truth
How has the WTS suppressed the truth of its history? How many JWs know that the WTS once taught that each creative day was 7,000 years long and that 1975 was the 6,000th year of the 7th creative day?
true Christians--only JWs
Stay clear of those who suppress the truth of God's Word...spreads false teachings
For over 90 years, the WTS preached that those alive in 1914 would be alive to see the end
*** w92 8/15 p. 9 From Historic Hospital to Unique Kingdom Hall ***
The magazine now known as The Watchtower is freely available to visitors. Since 1879 this magazine has grown in circulation to over 15 million copies semimonthly in 111 languages. It directs individuals to the Bible's promise that some of the generation of 1914 will be alive to see good physical and spiritual health restored to mankind. (Isaiah 33:24) The entire earth will be transformed into a paradise by millions of willing volunteers. (Psalm 37:29)
*** w91 6/15 p. 7 Soon No More Sickness or Death! ***
: "When you see all these things, know that he is near at the doors. Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur." So some of the generation living in 1914 will live to see the end of the present world system.-Matthew 24:33, 34.
Flee From "Babylon the Great"
Q6) How Is "Babylon the Great" portrayed in the Bible?
6) Consider how the Bible book of Revelation describes false religion. It is portrayed as a drunken prostitute who has power over many kingdoms and their peoples. This figurative woman commits fornication with many kings and is drunk with the blood of God's true worshippers. (Revelation 17:1, 2, 6, 18) She has a name written on her forehead that matches her filthy and repulsive conduct. The name is "Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots and of the disgusting things of the earth."-Revelation 17:5.
False religion...drunken prostitute...Babylon the Great
At one time the WTS taught that Babylon the Great was the Papacy, the Roman Catholic Church.
The judgment of the great whore. — Papacy, the "beast." — Rev. 19:2. (Finished Mystery, 1917, p. 259)
All religions except the WTS
God's true worshippers--only JWs
Q7, 8) How has false religion prostituted herself, and with what results?
7) The Scriptural description of Babylon the Great fits the world's collective body of false religion. Although the thousands of religions are not formally united as one world organization, they are inseparably joined in purpose and deed. As depicted by the immoral woman in Revelation, false religion has tremendous influence over governments. Resembling a woman not faithful to her marriage vows, false religion has prostituted herself by forming alliances with one political power after another. "Adulteresses, do you not know that the friendship with the world is enmity with God?" wrote the disciple James."Whoever, therefore, wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God." James 4:4.
collective body of false religion--every religion but the WTS
False religion has tremendous influence over governments
Does the WTS try to influence governments, change laws? Flag salute, Sunday preaching, etc.
Resembling a woman not faithful to her marriage vows
The WTS has been unfaithful to God by associating with the UN as a non-governmental organization for 10 years from 1991 to 2001, each year signing a document saying they would support the charter of the UN.
http://www.randytv.com/secret/unitednations.htm (United Nations issue)
The WTS has made itself a friend of the UN.
8) This mixing of false religion with the governments has resulted in much human suffering. African political analyst Dr. Xolela Mangcu observed that "world history is littered with examples of mass killings caused by linking religion and politics." One newspaper recently stated: "The bloodiest and most dangerous disputes today . . . are wrapped in religion." The lives of millions have been snuffed out in religiously supported conflicts. Babylon the Great has even persecuted and killed God's true servants, becoming drunk with their blood, as it were.-Revelation 18:24.
Who is Dr. Xolela Mangcu? When did he say this?
What newspaper stated this? What does "recently" mean? What was said in the ... area?
The bloodiest and most dangerous disputes today, from fundamentalist Islamic terrorism to Palestinian suicide bombings to a threatened nuclear showdown over Kashmir, are wrapped in religion.
http://www.religionandpolicy.org/show.php?p=1.1.12
(USA Today quoted from this site)
God's true servants--only JWs, actually only anointed JWs.
Q9) How is Jehovah's hatred for false worship expressed in the book of Revelation?
9) That Jehovah hates false worship is clearly seen from what happens to Babylon the Great. Revelation 17:16 states: "The ten horns that you saw, and the wild beast, these will hate the harlot and will make her devastated and naked, and will eat up her fleshy parts and will completely burn her with fire." First, a huge beast mauls her to death and eats up her fleshy parts. Then, whatever remains of her is completely burned. Correspondingly, soon the world governments will take such action against false religion. God will make it happen. (Revelation 17:17) Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, is doomed to destruction. "She will never be found again."-Revelation 18:21.
The ten horns...hate the harlot...make her devastated
Soon the world governments
For years the WTS has identified the "ten horns" as the UN or elements in the UN. Notice how they distance themselves from this doctrine in paragraph 9.
***Isaiah Prophecy-2 chap. 18 pp. 269-270 Jehovah Revives the Spirit of the Lowly Ones ***
Along with the rest of "Babylon the Great"-the world conglomerate of false religion-Christendom will be annihilated. The symbolic scarlet-colored wild beast and its ten horns "will make [Babylon the Great] devastated and naked, and will eat up her fleshy parts and will completely burn her with fire." (Revelation 17:3, 16, 17)
*** Isaiah Prophecy-1 chap. 26 p. 345 "No Resident Will Say: 'I Am Sick'" ***
That "rod" will be member nations of the United Nations-an organization pictured in Revelation as a seven-headed, ten-horned, scarlet-colored wild beast.-Revelation 17:3, 15-17.
*** w97 9/15 p. 19 Who Will Survive "the Day of Jehovah"? ***
"The ten horns" depict the militarized political powers holding sway on earth. Though they now have a spiritually adulterous relationship with Babylon the Great, her time is short. This world's political element will destroy false religion, and "the wild beast"-the United Nations-will have a principal role with "the ten horns" in devastating her. What an occasion for praising Jehovah!-Revelation 19:1-6.
*** w96 6/1 p. 18 Flight to Safety Before the "Great Tribulation" ***
At Revelation 17:16, it is foretold that a figurative scarlet-colored wild beast, which has proved to be the United Nations, will turn on harlotlike Babylon the Great and violently destroy her. Using graphic language, it says: "The ten horns that you saw, and the wild beast, these will hate the harlot and will make her devastated and naked, and will eat up her fleshy parts and will completely burn her with fire." What this will mean is awesome to contemplate. It will result in the end of false religion of every kind in all parts of the earth. This will indeed show that the great tribulation has begun.
Blurb on page 28: Do you know why "Babylon the Great" is portrayed as an immoral woman?
Q10) What should be our position regarding false religion?
10) What position should true worshippers take regarding Babylon the Great? In no uncertain terms, the Bible commands: "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." (Revelation 18:4) Those who want to be spared must get out of false religion before it is too late. When on earth, Jesus Christ foretold that in the last days, many would merely claim to follow him. (Matthew 24:3-5) To such ones, he says: "I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness." (Matthew 7:23) The now enthroned King, Jesus Christ, has nothing to do with false religion.
true worshippers--only JWs
Get out of her
Since the WTS has prophesied falsely, taught doctrine not in harmony with the Bible, and committed spiritual fornication with the UN, should its members get out of her?
Many would merely claim to follow him...get away from me
The WTS should be concerned that Christ will say the same to them.
Now enthroned
The WTS has taught that Jesus was enthroned in 1878
*** jv chap. 28 p. 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.
We speak of His coming or manifestation as Bridegroom and Reaper between the Autumn of 1874 and the Spring of 1878, in the same sense as He was so spoken of during the three years and a half between His baptism and His entry into Jerusalem as King. (WT, July 1880, R115)
or 1914?
Keep Clear-How?
Q11) What should we do to keep clear of false worship?
11) True Christians keep clear of false worship, rejecting false religions teachings. This means that we avoid exposure to religious programs on radio and television as well as religious literature that promotes lies about God and his Word. (Psalm 119:37) We also wisely refrain from sharing in social functions and recreational activities sponsored by any organization associated with false religion. Additionally, we do not support false worship in any way. (1 Corinthians 10:21) Taking such measures protects us from being carried off by someone "as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ."-Colossians 2:8.
True Christians--only JWs
Exposure to religious programs on radio and television...religious literature that promotes lies about God and his Word
"Lies" or rather the truth about the WTS is more like it.
Exposure--sounds like JWs have no control over the TV and radio dials and that people are coming to their doors placing religoius literature.
Refrain from sharing in social functions and recreational activities by any organization associated with false religion.
Notice how the WTS does not explain what these might be. Leaves it open for the elders and other "mature" JWs to impose their interpretation on this statement.
Or do they? YMCA = UN
*** w79 1/1 p. 30 Questions from Readers ***
Is it true that for religious reasons Jehovah's Witnesses may not become members of the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association)?
Yes, that is so. We have long recognized that the YMCA, though not being a church as such, is definitely aligned with the religious organizations of Christendom in efforts to promote interfaith....
Many persons think of the "Y" (UN) simply as a library social organization that offers various services, such as a access to information, coordination of relief efforts, swimming pool, facilities for athletic training and a place for clubs to meet. Commendable as some of these provisions may be, it is important to bear in mind that the YMCA UN was founded with a distinctly religious (political) basis.
In joining (associating with (the UN by becoming a non-governmental organization (NGO) the YMCA as a member a person accepts or endorses the general objectives and principles of the organization. He is not simply paying for something he receives, such as when buying things being sold to the public at a store (or gaining access to a library). (Compare 1 Corinthians 8:10; 10:25.) Nor is his membership merely an entry pass, as when a person buys a theater ticket. Membership means that one has become an integral part of this organization founded with definite religious (political) objectives, including the promotion of interfaith (peace apart of God's plan). Hence, for one of Jehovah's Witnesses to become a member (or associate as an NGO and support the charter of the UN) of such a so-called "Christian" (library) association would amount to apostasy.
http://watchtowerunitednations.blogspot.com/
http://www.randytv.com/secret/unrebut.htm
Blurb on page 29: "Babylon the Great" is doomed to destruction
Q12) How can a person break free from any connection with false religious organizations?
12) What if a person who wishes to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses is currently a registered member of a false religion? In most cases, a letter of resignation serves as evidence that a person no longer wants to be viewed as a member of a false religion. It is especially important that the person take decisive action to avoid completely any kind of spiritual contamination from false worship. The actions of a prospective Witness should make it clear to the religious organization and observers in general that he has ended that religious affiliation.
A registered member of a false religion...letter of resignation
All religions except JWs
Do these persons have to present a copy of this letter to the elders before they can be baptized as a JW? No? How then do they know they did this. When JWs resign, the elders demand a signed letter if they can induce the ex-JW to give it.
Make it clear to the religious organization observers in general
By sending a letter, how do they "make it clear to...observers in general"? Do they get a copy, is it posted on the church information board or in the newsletter? Can you imagine telling everyone you once shared faith with that they are in a false religion and doomed to die forever SOON if they don't become a JW?
*** w89 9/1 p. 19 Remaining Organized for Survival Into the Millennium ***
Only Jehovah's Witnesses, those of the anointed remnant and the "great crowd," as a united organization under the protection of the Supreme Organizer, have any Scriptural hope of surviving the impending end of this doomed system dominated by Satan the Devil. (Revelation 7:9-17; 2 Corinthians 4:4) They will make up the "flesh" that Jesus Christ said would be saved through the worst tribulation of all human history
*** sh chap. 16 p. 377 The True God and Your Future ***
How to Identify the True Religion
1. The true religion worships the only true God, Jehovah.
(Many religions use God's name in their songs, their sermons, their Bibles, the names on their buildings; but only the WTS inserts the name "Jehovah" in places in the NT where it never occurred in the original Greek manuscripts.)
2. The true religion offers access to God by means of Christ Jesus.-(The WTS teaches you can only approach Christ through them, thus access to God is first through the WTS, then Christ)
3. The true religion teaches and practices unselfish love.-(The WTS teaches that love is conditional, not shown toward unbelievers but first to believers, being no different than the people they condemn, helping friends and family, not enemies).
4. The true religion remains untainted by worldly politics and conflicts. It is neutral in time of war.-(Associating with the UN as an NGO and support the UN charter is not being neutral)
5. The true religion lets God be true by accepting the Bible as God's Word.-(The WTS says that the Bible can only be accepted in the way they explain it)
6. The true religion does not condone war or personal violence.-(The WTS condones a war that will bring eternal death to 6.5 billion people, men, women and little babies, even if the WTS can't manage to get to them to give them a personal witness)
7. The true religion successfully unites people of every race, language, and tribe. It does not preach nationalism or hatred, but love.(Unites but still believes that some races are genetically less intelligent, preaches a nationialistm that puts every non-JW outside their group and doomed to destruction, a love built on the rules of WT men not the Bible)
8. The true religion advocates serving God, not for selfish gain or a salary, but out of love. It does not glorify men. It glorifies God.-(Yet they teach that the elders are due double honor not on the basis of the love they show the sheep but the position they hold, appointed by men; the first thing you learn about a male JW is his position/status in the local congregation.)
9. The true religion proclaims the Kingdom of God as man's sure hope, not some political or social philosophy.-(Does the WTS proclaim Christ and the kingdom or only Christ and the kingdom through the WTS only?).
10. The true religion teaches the truth regarding God's purpose for man and the earth. It does not teach the religious lies of immortal soul and eternal torment in hell. It teaches that God is love.-(But the WTS does teach about immortal life and that only 144,000 humans will receive it; and it does teach that 6.5 billion humans will soon die forever, including children and babies, just because their parents are not JWs.
Q13) What counsel does the Bible offer regarding the need to keep clear of false worship?
13) "Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers," wrote the apostle Paul. "For what fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with darkness? Further, what harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what portion does a faithful person have with an unbeliever? And what agreement does God's temple have with idols? ...`Therefore get out from among them, and separate yourselves,' says Jehovah, `and quit touching the unclean thing."' (2 Corinthians 6: 14-17) We heed these words by keeping clear of false worship. Does Paul's advice require that we also stay away from false worshippers?
Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers
How many times have JWs heard that in connection to marrying non-JWs?
Yet, Paul was quoting from the OT, where Israelites were allowed to marry non-Israelites...the scriptures in Deuteronomy the WTS likes to skip over or conceal. I guess a JW can marry a non-JW if all her relatives are dead (most likely killed by the JW as the Israelites had killed her relatives), images representing her gods were destroyed, and she had no contact with practicers of false religion (pretty hard since all non-JWs are practicers of false religion).
Do JWs stay away from all false worshippers? Work, school, neighbors, relatives, previous non-JW friends, shopping, recreation through movies, dvds, television, etc.?
*** w04 9/15 p. 28 Questions From Readers ***
The situation was different, though, in the case of foreign women in general. In this regard, this principle applied: "You must form no marriage alliance with them. Your daughter you must not give to his son, and his daughter you must not take for your son." (Deuteronomy 7:3) What was the reason for this restriction? Deuteronomy 7:4 says: "For he will turn your son from following me, and they will certainly serve other gods." The prohibition, then, was for the purpose of protecting the Israelites from religious contamination. However, a foreign woman in the circumstances described at Deuteronomy 21:10-13 presented no such threat. All her relatives were dead, and images representing her gods were destroyed. She had no contact with practicers of false religion. An Israelite was allowed to marry a foreigner under such circumstances.
"Go On Walking in Wisdom"
Q14) Must we completely avoid those who engage in false worship? Explain.
14) Should true worshippers shun all contact with people who engage in false worship? Should we hold ourselves completely aloof from those who do not share our faith? The answer is no. The second of the two greatest commandments states: "You must love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:39) We certainly display love for our neighbors when we share with them the good news of the Kingdom. Our love for them is also shown when we study the Bible with them and make them aware of the need to keep clear of false worship.
Should we hold ourselves completely aloof...no
But only when preaching to them. Can you imagine carrying on a conversation with a co-worker this way:
CW: Hi, JW, do you have the reports I asked for last week?
JW: Hi, CW, that reminds me of how God sends a good report to us through the good news of the kingdom.
CW: Great, JW, but where are the reports?
JW: CW, the kingdom is here, Christ is already reigning in the heavens, that is the report I bring to you.
So obviously JWs do talk to co-workers about much more than the "good news" and can be reprimanded where I work if they do it on work time and unrequested.
Non-JWs sometimes "study" the Bible with JWs just to be their friend and find that when they quit the study, the JW quits them.
Q15) What does it mean to be "no part of the world"?
15) Although we preach the good news to our neighbors, as Jesus' followers we are "no part of the world." (John 15:19) The term "world" here refers to human society alienated from God. (Ephesians 4:17-19;1 John 5: 19) We are separate from the world in that we shun attitudes, speech, and conduct that offend Jehovah. (1 John 2:15-17) Moreover, in harmony with the principle that "bad associations spoil useful habits," we avoid intimacy with those who do not live by Christian standards. (1 Corinthians 15:33) To be no part of the world is to remain "without spot from the world." (James 1:27) Hence, being separate from the world does not mean that we physically withdraw from all contact with other people. John 17:15, 16; 1 Corinthians 5:9, 10.
Human society alienaated from God (really from the WTS, the only channel to God on earth)
We avoid intimacy with those who do not live by Christian standards
Or as the WTS said last week in paragraph 9 even those who do live by Christian standards.
What about having close association with those who may be morally clean but who lack faith in the true God? The Scriptures tell us: "The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) We come to discern that bad associations are not limited to permissive or morally debased people. Hence, we are wise to cultivate close friendships only with those who love Jehovah.
Does not mean we physically withdraw from all contact with other people.
But it does mean never sharing in a wedding or baby shower held at work, or a retirement celebration, going out to eat or shopping during the lunch break with co-workers, never talking about anything personal unless it is with a view to converting them to being a JW; it means never seeing your non-JW family except to pickup your Christmas/birthday presents; it means never watching television, seeing a movie, reading a book not published by the WTS....is that how JWs act? What the WTS means is that they don't cloister themselves physically, but mentally they have a lot of contact with the "world."
*** w97 4/15 p. 26 Weddings That Honor Jehovah ***
The timing of many weddings conflicts with assemblies or special service efforts linked to the Lord's Evening Meal. We should not permit ourselves to become distracted from making the same special efforts that our brothers around the world are making to attend the Lord's Evening Meal. Before coming to a knowledge of the truth, we spent much time with worldly people, perhaps in circumstances that dishonored God. (1 Peter 4:3, 4) Now our priorities are different. It is always possible to wish a worldly couple well by sending a card or dropping in for a brief visit on another day. Some have used such occasions to give a witness, sharing some scriptures that are fitting for newlyweds.
*** w94 2/15 p. 24 Keep Your Distance When Danger Threatens ***
We must also be on guard against extended association with worldly people. Perhaps it is a neighbor, a school friend, a workmate, or a business associate. We may reason, 'He respects the Witnesses, he leads a clean life, and we do talk about the truth occasionally.' Yet, the experience of others proves that in time we may even find ourselves preferring such worldly company to that of a spiritual brother or sister. What are some of the dangers of such a friendship?
We could begin to minimize the urgency of the times we live in or take a growing interest in material rather than spiritual things. Perhaps, because of a fear of displeasing our worldly friend, we would even desire to be accepted by the world.
Q16, 17) How should Christians treat those who are not acquainted with Bible truth?
16) How, then, are we to treat those who are not acquainted with Bible truths? To the congregation in Colossae, Paul wrote: "Go on walking in wisdom toward those on the outside, buying out the opportune time for yourselves. Let your utterance be always with graciousness, seasoned with salt, so as to know how you ought to give an answer to each one." (Colossians 4:5, 6) The apostle Peter wrote: "Sanctify the Christ as Lord in your hearts, always ready to make a defense before everyone that demands of you a reason for the hope in you, but doing so together with a mild temper and deep respect." (1 Peter 3:15) Paul counseled Christians "to speak injuriously of no one, not to be belligerent, to be reasonable, exhibiting all mildness toward all men."-Titus 3:2.
How, then are we to treat those who are not acquainted with Bible truths?
Seasoned with salt?
*** w86 1/1 p. 18 Building for an Eternal Future ***
It is the time for the King, Jesus Christ, now enthroned in the heavens, to separate meek, sheeplike people from obstinate, goatish people (all non-JWs) who do not want that Kingdom, and to gather these "sheep" to his congregation of spiritual "brothers" before the "great tribulation" strikes.-Matthew 24:14, 21; 25:31-40.
*** w65 3/15 p. 176 Our Own Twentieth-Century Generation and the Resurrection ***
The undedicated children of goatish people will not be spared from execution and being sentenced to Gehenna just because they are themselves minor, unresponsible children. This hard fact is illustrated in the orders that Jehovah God issued to his executioners when apostate Jerusalem was to be destroyed. To his executioners he said: "Pass through the city after him [the man who marked the ones to be spared] and strike. Let not your eye feel sorry, and do not feel any compassion. Old man, young man and virgin and little child and women you should kill off." And that is what they did, as illustrated in Jerusalem's destruction, 607 B.C.E.-Ezek. 9:5-7.
At least the children killed in "607" will be resurrected. The ones the WTS say will be killed SOON will die forever, no resurrection, all for picking to be born to the "wrong" parents.
Mild temper and deep respect? Reasonable, not belligerent.
*** w50 6/1 p. 176 Field Experience ***
PREACHING DESPITE PHYSICAL HANDICAP
While group witnessing in Pasadena, California, finding very little interest, I came to a house on the corner. A goatish woman at the door cared more for her religious fodder than for the bread of life, so I went to a small house in the rear
17) As Jehovah's Witnesses, we avoid being harsh or arrogant toward others. We certainly do not use derogatory terms to describe people of other religions. Instead, we are tactful, even if the householder, neighbor, or workmate is-unkind or uses abusive terms.-Colossians 4:6; 2 Timothy 2:24.
Avoid being harsh or arrogant towards
First, JWs have to stop being harsh and arrogant towards each other.
Derogatory terms:
Goats, worldly, bad association, so-called Christians, professed Christians, blind, hard hearted, false religion, opposers, controlled by Satan, immoral, wicked, Babylonish, unbelievers,
Blurb on page 31: We display "a mild temper and deep respect" toward those who do not share our beliefs
"Keep Holding the Pattern of Healthful Words"
Q18) What deplorable spiritual condition is experienced by those who regress to false worship?
18) After learning Bible truths, how tragic it would be if one regressed to false worship! The Bible describes the sad consequences of such a course when it says: "Certainly if, after having escaped from the defilements of the world by an accurate knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they get involved again with these very things and are overcome, the final conditions have become worse for them than the first.... The saying of the true proverb has happened to them: `The dog has returned to its own vomit, and the sow that was bathed to rolling in the mire."'-2 Peter 2:20-22.
Bible truths
The body of teachings of the WTS only
*** w86 4/1 p. 31 Questions From Readers ***
Approved association with Jehovah's Witnesses requires accepting the entire range of the true teachings of the Bible, including those Scriptural beliefs that are unique to Jehovah's Witnesses.
Has the WTS made 180 then another 180 degree changes on its teachings?
Superior authorities
Organ transplants
Woman required/not required to scream while raped
Resurrection/non-resurrection of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah
Q19) Why is it vital to remain alert to anything that can endanger our spirituality?
19) We must remain alert to anything that can endanger our spirituality. The dangers are real! The apostle Paul warns: "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." (1 Timothy 4:1) We live in "later periods of time." Those who do not keep clear of false worship can be "tossed about as by waves and carried hither and thither by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in contriving error."-Ephesians 4:13,14.
We must remain alert to anything that can endanger our spirituality
Including the dangers within the WTS; the danger of following humans
"paying attention to misleading utterances" "trickery of men"
BTW did you know that until 1970, the WTS taught that the great tribulation started in 1914 and was temporarily interrupted in 1918 to being in the NEAR future?
BTW did you know that until 1995, the WTS taught that the separating of the sheep and goats had already been happening but now that won't start until after the great tribulation starts?
*** w95 12/15 p. 30 Do You Remember? ***
· In the parable of the sheep and the goats, when does Jesus sit down on his throne and why? (Matthew 25:31-33)
The parable does not show him sitting down in the sense of becoming King. Rather, he sits down as Judge. That judging is not something extending over a period of many years. Instead, the parable points to the future when Jesus will in a limited time pronounce and execute judgment on the nations.-10/15, pages 22, 23.
BTW did you know that the until 1999, the WTS taught that the "disgusting thing" the League of Nations (later UN) has been standing in the "holy place" but now teach that that is yet future?
*** w99 8/15 p. 29 Do You Remember? ***
· Why is it logical to say that there will be a future "standing in a holy place" by "the disgusting thing"? (Matthew 24:15)
In the ancient pattern, 'the disgusting thing standing in a holy place' was linked to the Roman attack under General Gallus in 66 C.E. The modern-day parallel to that attack-the outbreak of the "great tribulation"-is still ahead. (Matthew 24:21) So "the disgusting thing that causes desolation" is yet to stand in a holy place.-5/1, pages 16, 17.
What do you think the next revelation from the WTS will be?
Q20) How can we protect ourselves against the damaging influence of false religion?
20) How can we protect ourselves against the damaging influence of false religion? Consider all that Jehovah has provided. We have God's Word, the Bible. (2 Timothy 3: 16, 17) Jehovah has also provided abundant spiritual food through "the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45) As we progress in the truth, should we not cultivate a taste for `solid food that belongs to mature people' and a desire to come together where we learn spiritual truths? (Hebrews 5:13, 14; Psalm 26:8) Let us be determined to take full advantage of Jehovah's provisions so that we can "keep holding the pattern of healthful words" that we have heard. (2 Timothy 1:13) Thus we can keep clear of false worship.
Protect ourselves...the Bible...spiritual food through "the faithful and discreet slave."
The FDS is the most important. You can read the Bible but if you aren't a JW, you will die.
But is that enough according to the WTS? Are spiritual truths to be found at the KHs of Jehovah's Witnesses?
*** w81 2/15 p. 19 Do We Need Help to Understand the Bible? ***
. We all need help to understand the Bible, and we cannot find the Scriptural guidance we need outside the "faithful and discreet slave" organization.
What Have You Learned?
- What is "Babylon the Great"?
- What must we do to keep clear of false religion?
- What dangers to our spirituality should we avoid?
Concluding Comments
Don't measure the WTS by themselves. Measure them by the Scriptures alone...if anything they teach is not in the Bible....
(2 Corinthians 10:12) 12 For we do not dare to class ourselves among some or compare ourselves with some who recommend themselves. Certainly they in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves with themselves have no understanding.
(Acts 17:10-11) . . .. 11 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 daily as to whether these things were so.
(1 John 4:1) 4 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.
(Galatians 1:7-8) . . .. 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.
JWD has been down; somewhat frustrating. We are finalizing our landscaping plan but the grunt work will be by others. It feels like we should plant but it can snow as late as the first week of May in this area and freezes have been known as late as the 15th. Patience.
Love, Blondie