Comments You Will Not Hear at the 06-03-07 WT Study (April 15, 2007, pages 25-29)(CONGREGATION BUILT UP?) Review comments will be in redWT material from today's WT will be in blackQuotes from other sources will be in quotes boxes
w = Watchtower
g = Awake
jv = Proclaimers book
Bible translations www.biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible
WT publications www.reexamine.org
WT child abuse www.silentlambs.org
Blood issue www.ajwrb.org
United Nations http://www.randytv.com/secret/unitednations.htm
JW Vocabulary http://www.jehovah.to/glos/index.html
LET THE CONGREGATION BE BUILT UP
"The congregation ... entered into a period of peace, being built up. "-ACTS 9:31. (just a snippet)
Complete Scripture in NWT:
(Acts 9:31) 31 Then, indeed, the congregation throughout the whole of Ju•de´a and Gal´i•lee and Sa•mar´i•a entered into a period of peace, being built up; and as it walked in the fear of Jehovah and in the comfort of the holy spirit it kept on multiplying.
OPENING COMMENTS
See last week’s review re comments that only the 144,000 anointed “JWs” (so-called Christians) are the CONGREGATION of God.
Notice that this peace did not extend beyond Judea, Galilee and Samaria. Was it peaceful for Christians in the rest of the Roman Empire at the time of Acts 9:31 perhaps 50 C.E.? Or were most of the Christians in those 3 areas at that time?
REMEMBER THE ELDERS HAVE THE IMPERFECTION CARD, NOT YOU.
START OF ARTICLE
Q1) What questions might be asked about "the con¬gregation of God"?
1) On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., Jehovah recognized a group of Christ's disci¬ples as a new nation, "the Israel of God." (Galatians 6:16) These spirit-anointed Chris¬tians also became what the Bible terms "the congregation of God." (1 Corinthians 11: 22) What, though, did that involve? How would "the congregation of God" be ar¬ranged? How would it function on earth, wherever its members lived? And how are our lives and happiness involved?
Does Pentecost 33 CE correspond to 1919 CE in the WTS chronology when supposedly Christ returned to inspect his temple and found only the WTS practicing the true faith?
*** w98 5/1 p. 14 pars. 6-7 Who Will “Get Away Safe”? ***
By 1918 their preaching activity had virtually ceased. Still, that did not last long. Starting in 1919, Jehovah began to pour out his spirit on his people in a way that called to mind Pentecost 33 C.E. Of course, in 1919 there was no speaking in tongues and no rushing stiff breeze. We understand from Paul’s words recorded at 1 Corinthians 13:8 that the time for miracles was long since past. Nevertheless, God’s spirit was clearly evident in 1919 when, at a convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A., faithful Christians (only JWs) were reinvigorated and again began the work of preaching the good news of the Kingdom.
*** w97 5/15 p. 15 par. 1 Theocratic Administration in the Christian Era ***But as “the time of the end” approached, the true Israel of God came back into human view and in 1919 was appointed over all Jesus’ belongings. These spirit-anointed Christians also became what the Bible terms "the congregation of God." (1 Corinthians 11: 22)
What scripture says that the “other sheep” or “great crowd” were not part of this “congregation of God”? How could they be if they were/are not spirit-anointed?
Arranged—did you know that the Bible does not use the word “organization”? What does the WTS say about Christian religions that use the word “trinitiy” in their beliefs? That because the word does not appear in the Bible it must not be a Bible teaching? Is the WTS consistent then in its “logic”?
*** w04 3/15 p. 19 par. 19 “Fully Accomplish Your Ministry” ***For instance, he may believe in the Trinity. In chapter 3, the Knowledge book points out that the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible.
*** w98 9/1 p. 8 par. 2 Keep Safe as Part of God’s Organization ***A statement in the December 1, 1922, issue of The Watchtower suggested the answer: “We are now in the evil day. The fight is on between Satan’s organization and God’s organization. It is a desperate fight.” In this conflict, God’s organization is a place of spiritual safety. The word “organization” does not appear in the Bible, and back in the 1920’s, “God’s organization” was a new expression.
*** w84 8/15 p. 27 One God in Three? ***Who were the first theologians to coin the word “trinity” as they “constructed the doctrine”? The Catholic Encyclopedia informs us: “In Scripture there is as yet no single term by which the Three Divine Persons are denoted together. The word trias (of which the Latin trinitas is a translation) is first found in Theophilus of Antioch about A. D. 180. . . . Shortly afterwards it appears in its Latin form of trinitas in Tertullian.”
Happiness involved—cannot be happy outside the WTS/FDS/GB, right?
Q2, 3) How did Jesus indicate that the congregation would have structure?
2) As noted in the preceding article, Jesus foretold the existence of this congregation of anointed followers, telling the apostle Peter: "On this rock-mass [Jesus Christ] I will build my congregation, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it." (Matthew 16:18) Further¬more, while Jesus was still with the apos-tles, he gave indications as to the function and arrangement within that soon-to-be¬-established congregation.
Congregation of ANOINTED followers
Function and arrangement—euphemisms for organized, organizing, organization…control…………
3) Jesus taught by word and deed that some in the congregation would take the lead. They would do so by serving, or ministering to, others in their group. Christ said: "You know that those who appear to be ruling the nations lord it over them and their great ones wield authority over them. This is not the way among you; but whoever wants to be¬come great among you must be your minis¬ter, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of all." (Mark 10:42-44) Clearly, "the congregation of God" would not be merely scattered, isolated individuals, amounting to an amorphous congregation. Rather, there would be structure, with indi¬viduals in the congregation interacting with one another.
Jesus taught by word and deed—Jesus knew what had happened to the religious “leaders” of his day. Do you see similar men (and women) in the “congregations” of the WTS? I have and still do.
(Matthew 23:1-8) Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying: 2 “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the seat of Moses. 3 Therefore all the things they tell YOU, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds, for they say but do not perform. 4 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. 5 All the works they do they do to be viewed by men; for they broaden the [scripture-containing] cases that they wear as safeguards, and enlarge the fringes [of their garments]. 6 They like the most prominent place at evening meals and the front seats in the synagogues, 7 and the greetings in the marketplaces and to be called Rabbi by men. 8 But YOU, do not YOU be called Rabbi, for one is YOUR teacher, whereas all YOU are brothers.
Do the elders consider themselves your servants, there to “wash your feet or do they expect to be served and their feet washed, special privileges? Why are elders no longer called congregation servants, district or circuit servants, branch servants? It stopped in the early 70’s; was that when they stopped “serving” the rank and file and became “mighty men” and “chieftains” and “sheiks”?
Doesn’t the WTS tell elders that they are the only ones qualified to be called teachers in the congregation? Where’s Jesus?
By serving…(or) lord it over…wield authority…not the way among you—Now the WTS refers to them as “elders” “overseers” not “servants” or “slaves.”
Must be the slave of all—do the elders act as slaves to ALL? Would they wash your feet (even if you are a woman?)…would they wash your car even? Or do they see this picture of themselves in Jesus place?
http://www.mainlesson.com/books/hurlbut/bible/zpage561.jpg
Can you think of some ways the elders do not think of themselves as servants or slaves to all?
Not be merely scattered, isolated individuals…amorphous—But did that mean that individuals did not or could not have God’s blessing?
Structure—Euphemism for ORGANIZATION
Q4, 5) How do we know that the congregation would need spiritual instruction?
4) The One who would be the Head of that "congregation of God" indicated that his apostles and others who had learned from him would have specific responsibilities to¬ward the rest. To do what? A key assignment would be to give spiritual instruction to those in the congregation. Recall that the res¬urrected Jesus, in the presence of some of the other apostles, said to Peter: "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter answered: "Yes, Lord, you know I have affection for you." Je¬sus said to him: "Feed my lambs.... Shep¬herd my little sheep. Feed my little sheep." (John 21:15-17) What an assign¬ment!
Apostles and others (not women although Prisca instructed Apollos but he wasn’t baptized “properly” yet)…would have specific responsibilities TOWARD the rest.
Spiritual instruction to those IN THE congregation
Feed…lambs (not sheep)…shepherd LITTLE sheep (not just sheep)—showing that they need assistance, and belonged to Jesus not the elders
5) We can see from Jesus' words that those being gathered into the congregation are lik¬ened to sheep in a fold. These sheep-Chris¬tian men, women, and children-would need to be spiritually fed and properly shep¬herded. Furthermore, since Jesus charged all his followers to teach others and make disci¬ples, any new ones becoming his sheep would need to be trained in how to carry out that divine commission.-Matthew 28: 19, 20.
Unbaptized children are only sheep if they are “minors” with one baptized JW parent.
Properly shepherded—Does not mean calling on them once every ten years and talking to them so they became familiar with the “voice” and were drawn to it like shepherds in Bible times.
Jesus charged ALL his followers to teach others and make disciples—how many JWs do you know that almost never make return visits, and turn down opportunities to takeover existing Bible studies from others? Might interfere with their Saturday golfing or skiing.
Did you know that it used to be required to be conducting (not “conducted”) a Bible study with someone other than their own child to be appointed a regular pioneer? How many JWs would qualify today?
Matthew 28:19,20: Are JWs baptized in the of God, Jesus, and the holy spirit or a spirit-directed organization? Are they carrying out that “divine commission” then?
*** w85 6/1 p. 30 Subjecting Ourselves to Jehovah by Dedication ***At the close of the convention baptism talk, the baptism candidates will be in position to answer with depth of understanding and heartfelt appreciation two simple questions that serve to confirm that they recognize the implications of following Christ’s example. The first question is:
On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?
The second is:
Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in association with God’s spirit-directed organization?
Q6) What arrangements were made in the newly formed "congregation of God"?
6) Once "the congregation of God" was formed, those making it up gathered regularly for instruction and mutual encour¬agement: "They continued devoting them¬selves to the teaching of the apostles and to sharing with one another, to taking of meals and to prayers." (Acts 2:42, 46, 47) Another notable detail in the historical record is that some qualified men were designated to help in caring for certain practical matters. They were not selected because of years of school¬ing or technical skills. These were men "full of spirit and wisdom." One was Stephen, and the account calls attention to his being "a man full of faith and holy spirit." One result of the congregational arrangement was that "the word of God went on growing, and the number of the disciples kept multiplying in Jerusalem very much."-Acts 6:1-7.
Gathered regularly—3 times a week for 5 hours not counting travel time?
Taking of meals—ever seen a meal served after a meeting at the KH even a picnic outside, rarely if at all. I attended a Bible Student Sunday meeting and they had a nice pot luck afterwards with the visiting speaker and his family right there at their meeting place. What a concept!
Not selected because of years of schooling or technical skills—a shot at education after the minimum required schooling in your area.
Where is the love? What is love, disfellowshipping people, telling them weekly how they don’t measure up and even if they do make most the meetings, spending some time talking to others about God and Jesus that they will still probably not live through Armageddon. That they are not one of the millions who will never die?
Congregational arrangement—equals “organization” in WTS parlay. Congregations cannot exist apart from the governing body, another word/phrase that does not appear in the Bible.
Trinity, organization, governing body—all terms not found in the Bible.
[Picture on page 26] The apostles and older men in Jerusalem served as a governing body
Men Used by God
Q7, 8) (a) The apostles and older men in Jerusalem served as what among early Christians? (b) What re¬sulted when instruction was provided through the congregations?
7) Understandably, the apostles took the lead in the early congregational arrangement, but they were not alone. At one point, Paul and his companions returned to Syrian Antioch. Acts 14:27 relates: "When they had arrived and had gathered the congregation together, they proceeded to relate the many things God had done by means of them." While they were still with that local congre-gation, a question arose about whether Gen¬tile believers needed to be circumcised. To resolve the matter, Paul and Barnabas were sent "to the apostles and older men in Jeru¬salem," who clearly served as a governing body.-Acts 15:1-3.
Understandably, the apostles took the lead…James, Jesus’ half brother presided—does that mean all the apostles were dead or could not be present that a non-apostle had to preside? Was his family relationship that put him in that position? Just asking.
Clearly served as a governing body—but just as clearly were never identified as a “governing body” in the Bible, only WTS publications.
8) The Christian elder James, Jesus' half brother but not an apostle, presided when "the apostles and the older men gathered to¬gether to see about this affair." (Acts 15:6) After deliberation and with the help of the holy spirit, they reached a conclusion in har¬mony with the Scriptures. They sent this in writing to the local congregations. (Acts 15:22-32) Those receiving this information accepted and applied it. With what result? The brothers and sisters were built up and encouraged. The Bible reports: "Therefore, indeed, the congregations continued to be made firm in the faith and to increase in number from day to day."-Acts 16:5.
After deliberation (how many were there, were all the apostles present besides the other non-apostles?), with the help of the holy spirit (did they get a special revelation all at the same time, with tongues of fire as at Pentecost?), they reached a conclusion in harmony with the Scriptures.
Today’s elders use the Elders Manual and letters to the BOE, and comments from the COs/DOs that they write in the margins of the manual, to form their conclusions. Very rarely, is the Bible used directly, even indirectly. EM and/or BOE overrides any scripture.
http://www.angelfire.com/mo/flockbook/
http://www.reexamine.org/BOE/
They sent this in writing to the local congregations.
Did you know that the elders get similar letters but with more information than the ones that are read to the congregation?
I wonder what parts of the circumcision letter would have been too hard for early Christians to hear?
Q9) The Bible outlines what roles for qualified Chris¬tian men?
9) But how were the local congregations to function day by day? Take, for example, the congregations on the island of Crete. Though many people living there had a bad reputation, some changed and became true Christians. (Titus 1:10-12; 2:2, 3) They lived in various cities, and all were a long distance from the governing body in Jerusalem. That was not a major problem, however, because spiritual "older men" were appointed in each of the local congregations on Crete, as elsewhere. Such men met qualifications that we find recorded in the Bible. They were ap¬pointed as elders, or overseers, who could "exhort by the teaching that is healthful and ... reprove those who contradict." (Titus 1: 5-9; 1 Timothy 3:1-7) Other spiritual men were qualified to aid the congregations as ministerial servants, or deacons.-1 Timothy 3:8-10,12,13.
Long distance from the governing body—a word not found in the Bible remember.
Spiritual “older men” were appointed (not called servants or slaves)…met qualifications.
With all the qualifications listed in Titus and 1 Timothy, why did the WTS only list 2…teaching that is healthful, reprove those who contradict?
APOSTASY, a challenge to their “authority” who sit in their special room every Wednesday to make decisions to confuse and upset the lives of the “little sheep” owned by Jesus.
Elders, overseers, but not the older term “servants,” yet “deacons” a term that hasn’t been used in the WTS for over 40 years.
Q10) According to Matthew 18:15-17, how were serious problems to be resolved?
10) Jesus indicated that such a structure would exist. Recall the account at Matthew 18:15-17, where he noted that difficulties might arise at times between two of God's people, one sinning in some way against the other. The wronged party was to approach the other and "lay bare his fault" privately, between just the two of them. If that step did not resolve the issue, one or two others who knew the facts might be called upon to help. What if the matter was still unsettled? Jesus said: "If he does not listen to them, speak to the congregation. If he does not listen even to the congregation, let him be to you just as a man of the nations and as a tax collector." When Jesus said that, the Jews still consti-tuted "the congregation of God," so his words initially applied to them.* (Footnote: * Bible scholar Albert Barnes recognized that Jesus' direction to "speak to the congregation" could mean "those who are authorized to try such cases--the representatives of the church, or those who act for them. In the Jewish synagogue there was a bench of elders, be¬fore whom trials of this kind were brought.") However, once the Christian congregation was estab¬lished, Jesus' direction would have applica¬tion therein. This is another indication that God's people would have a congregational structure for the upbuilding and guidance of each individual Christian.
Structure = WTS organization
Difficulties…approach…privately…one or two others who knew the facts might…speak to the congregation…not listen…as a man of the nations and as a tax collector.
The WTS says this is not about disfellowshipping sins in which all three steps here are skipped and it is straight to the elders. No private meeting, no meeting with 2 others not necessarily elders, no involvement of the whole congregation. The WTS fails to point out that these “trials” were held in the gates of the city, publicly before the community, not in a back room with a closed door and 3 elders.
*** it-1 p. 518 Court, Judicial ***The local court was situated at the gate of a city. (De 16:18; 21:19; 22:15, 24; 25:7; Ru 4:1) By “gate” is meant the open space inside the city near the gate. The gates were places where the Law was read to the congregated people and where ordinances were proclaimed. (Ne 8:1-3) At the gate it was easy to acquire witnesses to a civil matter, such as property sales, and so forth, as most persons would go in and out of the gate during the day. Also, the publicity that would be afforded any trial at the gate would tend to influence the judges toward care and justice in the trial proceedings and in their decisions. Evidently there was a place provided near the gate where the judges could comfortably preside. (Job 29:7) Samuel traveled in a circuit of Bethel, Gilgal, and Mizpah and “judged Israel at all these places,” as well as at Ramah, where his house was located.—1Sa 7:16, 17.
The WTS tries to take a statement made by Jesus in regard to the arrangements of the Jews “still constituted” ‘the congregation of God” and turn it around using the words of a non-JW. Notice that in the footnote there is no mention of the time of the quote or what resource book it is in. (Barnes New Testament Notes, 1832-1872 published)
Why does this automatically have application to the Christian congregation? Is everything Jesus said in relation to the Jews of his time have application to the Christian congregation? Did the Christian congregation have the authority to execute serious wrongdoers by stoning as the Jews could in Jesus’ days?
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/barnes/ntnotes.ii.xviii.xvii.html
Q11) How were elders to be involved in resolving problems?
11) Fittingly, the older men, or overseers, would represent the local congregation in handling or resolving problems or in ad¬dressing cases of sin. That is consistent with the qualifications of elders mentioned at Titus 1:9. Granted, the local elders were imper¬fect men, as was Titus, whom Paul sent to congregations to "correct the things that were defective." (Titus 1:4, 5) Today, those being considered for appointment as elders must have proved their faith and devotion over time. Others in the congregation thus have reason to put trust in the direction and leadership provided through this arrange¬ment.
Fittingly---segway into—the older men, or overseers (not slaves or servants) would represent the local congregation.
Does that mean the rest of the congregation would not be there to see and hear what happened as it was In Jewish times when they “still constituted ‘the congregation of God’”?
Cases of sin—in WTS language, gross or grave sins with the punishment of death, a capital offense under the Law.
Correct the things that were defective—things not people
Proved their faith—are Christians able or required to “prove” their faith? WORKS?
*** w06 10/15 p. 23 par. 1 Prove Your Faith by Your Life Course ***About 35 years after he wrote that, many Christians were continuing to prove their faith with appropriate works.
How can you prove your faith?
when organizing a social gathering?
when organizing a wedding or a reception?
when giving or receiving wedding gifts?
Such as in social gatherings, weddings, receptions, wedding gifts, a Christian proves his/her faith?
Put their trust—in things they have not seen or heard the elders say or do? Men chosen by the other elders not the congregation.
Leadership—I thought only Jesus was the leader of the Christian congregation? What is the difference between “taking the lead” and being leaders in the congregation? Do elders know the difference?
Q12) What responsibility do elders have toward the congregation?
12) To elders in the Ephesian congregation, Paul said: "Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son." (Acts 20:28) It is equally true today that congregation overseers are appointed "to shepherd the congregation of God." They are to do so lovingly, not lording it over the flock. (1 Peter 5:2, 3) The overseers should strive to build up and help "all the flock."
Pay attention to yourselves—first then you will be qualified to help the flock
Holy appointed—how, using the Bible (see first part of this review), praying for holy spirit, consulting with other elders supposedly already appointed by holy spirit (some who carry on gross sins for years without the holy spirit revealing it; where is Nathan when you need him?)
Only JW congregation overseers—non JWs are indirect servants of Satan and appointed by him.
Should strive—and if they don’t are they removed? Fired? What would Jesus do?
Sticking With the Congregation
Q13) At times, what might occur in a congregation, and why?
13) The elders and all others in the congre¬gation are imperfect, so from time to time, misunderstandings or problems occur, as they did in the first century when some of the apostles were still present. (Philippians 4: 2, 3) An overseer or another person may say something that seems rude, unkind, or not quite true. Or we may think that something unscriptural is happening, but it seems that although the local elders are aware of it, they do not correct the matter. Of course, it may be that the issue has been or is being handled in accord with the Scriptures and in the light of facts of which we are unaware. But even if the situation is what we think it is, consider this: For a while, a serious wrong existed in the Corinthian congregation, a congre¬gation that Jehovah cared for. In time, he had the wrongdoing handled, correctly and firm¬ly. (1 Corinthians 5:1, 5, 9-11) We might ask ourselves, `If I had lived in Corinth back then, how would I have reacted in the mean¬time?'
Elders and all others…are imperfect
The imperfection card again and a dig that if you are imperfect, you can’t hold the elders to a higher standard. The elders are making bigger and bigger mistakes nowadays.
*** w00 6/15 p. 16 par. 16 Honor the Ones Given Authority Over You ***Congregation elders are appointed by holy spirit, yet they are still imperfect and make mistakes.
*** w00 7/1 p. 20 Good Examples—Are You Benefiting From Them? ***In spite of their imperfections, however, elders can still, like Timothy, “become [examples] to the faithful ones in speaking, in conduct, in love, in faith, in chasteness.”
*** w99 6/1 p. 15 par. 4 Appreciating the “Gifts in Men” ***Of course, elders do not want to misuse their authority, but they know that it is all too easy as imperfect humans to do so.
*** w98 6/1 p. 17 par. 10 “Put Up a Hard Fight for the Faith”! ***It is all too easy to find fault with the appointed elders, for they are imperfect, as all of us are imperfect.
*** w98 8/15 pp. 12-13 par. 13 Jehovah Should Be Our Confidence ***The Bible helps us to be balanced in showing confidence in those taking the lead among Jehovah’s people. We might ask ourselves: ‘Did Moses ever make mistakes? Did the apostles always show the Christlike attitude that Jesus wanted them to have?’ The answers are obvious. Jehovah has chosen to use loyal and devoted men to guide his people, even though they are imperfect men. Accordingly, while elders today are imperfect, we still ought to recognize them as “[appointed by] the holy spirit [to be] overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God.” They deserve our support and respect.—Acts 20:28.
*** w94 8/15 p. 29 Maintaining Harmony Between Elders and Ministerial Servants ***True, the elders are imperfect men, and it might be easy to find fault with them. Yet a critical attitude breeds mistrust. It can ruin your joy and adversely affect others in the congregation.
*** w72 4/1 p. 202 A Test of Humility ***It is sobering indeed to consider that, in the accomplishment of their work, elders have greater accountability than Christians generally. (Luke 12:48) This matter of being “called to the stricter account” is not an easy thing for elders. They, like their Christian brothers, are imperfect men. The disciple James acknowledged: “We all stumble many times.”—Jas. 3:2.
The imperfections of elders are often revealed to a greater degree than those of other members of the congregation. Why is this? It is because elders are constantly before the congregation, teaching, exhorting and reproving. Their actions come under close scrutiny by members of the congregation, for the elders are looked to as examples in proper Christian conduct.
And the “imperfect” elders disappears from the WTS lexicon…change in vocabulary, when the “elder arrangement” began and imperfections increased.
SEEMS rude, unkind, or not true
THINK that something unscriptural is happening
SEEMS that although the local elders are aware of it, they do not correct the matter
MAY BE that the issue has been or is being handled in accord with the Scriptures…facts of which we are UNAWARE
That is because no one but the “wrongdoer” and the 3 elders attend all the sessions and discussions; even the participation by the “victim” and the “eyewitnesses” is limited and controlled. Perhaps, you might here the convicted “wrongdoer” chastised when it is “reproof before all onlookers.”
IN TIME, HE HAD THE WRONGDOING HANDLED…how long did it take months, years, many years. A few months after Paul got involved…the elders weren’t doing crap. Was it proper to go over the heads of the elders and report it to what Paul functioned as, a CO?
How would you have reacted? I’d report it to the police first.
[Picture on page 28] Elders and ministerial servants receive instruction so that they can fulfill their responsibilities toward the congregation
Someone should start a thread and tell about the quality of education MS and elders get at their special schools. My husband found them a joke and a waste of time.
Q14, 15) Why did some stop following Jesus, provid¬ing what lesson for us?
14) Consider another possibility involving the congregation. Suppose that a person finds a Scriptural teaching hard to under¬stand and accept. He may have done research in the Bible and in publications available through the congregation and sought help from mature fellow Christians, even elders. Still, he has a hard time grasping or accepting the point. What can he do? Something simi¬lar developed about a year before Jesus died. He said that he was "the bread of life" and that to live forever a person had to "eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood." That shocked some of his disciples. Rather than seek an explanation or simply wait in faith, many disciples "would no longer walk with [Jesus]." (John 6:35, 41-66) Again, had we been there, what would we have done?
A scriptural teaching hard to understand and accept—a WTS teaching hard to understand because it is not scriptural except for using Matthew 24:45-47 and saying we are the FDS, we make the rules now for Christ and tell you what the Bible says.
*** 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. It helps us to understand the Word of God. 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.—John 6:68.
Done research in the Bible and in publications available…sought help from fellow Christians, even elders…hard time grasping or accepting the point
Notice that grasping and accepting are not the same concept. We can understand what the WTS is trying to say but not accept that it is Bible-based. Then a few years later, holy spirit lets the WTS in on what we already knew.
Jesus---son of God, raiser of people from the dead—is compared to—imperfect elders and the WTS/FDS/GB?
What has the WTS/FDS/GB done to inspire the confidence Jesus had in his followers?
Jesus equals the WTS/FDS/GB?
15) In modern times, some have ceased as¬sociating with the local congregation, feel¬ing that they will serve God on their own. They may say that it is because their feelings were hurt, they think a wrong is not being corrected, or they cannot accept some teach¬ing. How reasonable is their course? While it is true that each Christian should have a per¬sonal relationship with God, we cannot deny that he is using a worldwide congregation, as he did in the apostles' day. Furthermore, Je¬hovah used and blessed local congregations in the first century, arranging for qualified el¬ders and ministerial servants to benefit the congregations. That is also true today.
In modern times, some have ceased associating with the local congregation, feeling that they will serve God on their own.
Feelings were hurt
By a pedophile, an abusive husband, an abusive JW, a thief, a financial thief or defrauder, a rapist, someone who borrows and doesn’t repay…..
THINK a wrong is not being correct—KNOW that a wrong is not being corrected
Cannot accept some teaching—because they know it is not scriptural and are proved true, when the holy spirit finally reveals it to the WTS/FDS/GB when it was there all the time.
Jesus had no beard until 1969 because the WTS thought it was scriptural. Corrected that and then imposed a no beard—no privilege rule on men in the congregation without a scriptural basis except Matthew 24:45-47, the WESAYSO principle.
True that each Christian (JW) should have a personal relationship with God (where’s Jesus?), we cannot deny that he is using a worldwide congregation.
We can deny that the WTS/FDS/GB is that congregation though by their “fruits” or what the tree looks like, leaves, bark, etc.
If numbers are proof of God’s blessing, the WTS is close to last in the pack.
Consider this WTS logic:
*** w05 9/15 p. 8 Multitudes Embrace Jehovah’s Worship ***
Although numerical increase is not in itself proof of God’s blessing, it does provide evidence that “the hand of Jehovah” is with his people.
*** w74 10/1 p. 590 The Sad Result of Negative Thinking ***
But in the years 1968-1972, there were 680,871 persons baptized, to join with Jehovah’s witnesses in proclaiming the Kingdom to others. The evidence is there as to whom Jehovah God is blessing.
Pillar and Support of Truth
Q16) If tempted to leave the congregation, a person should think about what?
16) If a Christian feels that he can rely just on his own relationship with God, he is turn¬ing away from a God-ordained arrangement--that of both the worldwide congregation and the local congregations of God's people. The individual might go off on his own or be associating with just a few others, but where is the arrangement for congregation elders and the provision of ministerial servants? Significantly, when Paul wrote to the congre¬gation in Colossae and directed that the let¬ter be read also in Laodicea, he spoke of be¬ing "rooted and being built up in [Christ]." Those in the congregations, not individu¬als who separated themselves from such, would benefit from this.-Colossians 2:6, 7; 4:16.
A Christian—a JW only, the rest are either non-Christians or so-called Christians. Per the WTS only JWs are “true” Christians.
he is turning away from a God-ordained arrangement--that of both the worldwide congregation and the local congregations of God's people.
Can we have what the proof is that God-ordained the WTS. In 1918 when supposedly Jesus inspect his temple to find those practicing truth, he found the Bible Students using the cross in worship, using the pyramid to calculate Bible chronology and prophecy, celebrating birthdays and Christmas, praying for the US to win the war, allowing members to join the military but not use their guns, etc.
Go off on his own or be associating with just a few others, but where is the arrangement for congregation elders…ministerial servants.
Then the WTS arrangement was out of line until 1938 and untrue to God when these positions were democratically elected by the congregation members and independent of legal control by the WTS (correct me on this). Where was this proper arrangement? Just because a group is small does not mean that there is no shepherding or administrative duties being handled because a small group of men who “measure themselves by themselves” say we are (WESAYSO principle).
Did they Jews deny there was a worldwide congregation when they turned their back on the Jewish arrangement after Christ died on earth?
Now is it “on his own” or “just a few others”? How many constitute a congregation per Jesus? (Out of context perhaps, got a better?)
(Matthew 18:20) For where there are two or three gathered together in my name, there I am in their midst.”
Q17) What does 1 Timothy 3:15 show about the congregation?
17) In his first letter to the Christian elder Timothy, the apostle Paul outlined the qual¬ifications of elders and ministerial servants in local congregations. Right after that, Paul mentioned "the congregation of the living God," saying that this is "a pillar and sup¬ort of the truth." (1 Timothy 3:15) The entire congregation of anointed Christians certainly proved to be such a pillar in the first century. And it is indisputable that the principal arrangement for individual Christians to receive such truth was in connection with the local congregation. That is where they could hear truth taught and supported, where they could be built up.
Apostle Paul—was Paul one of the twelve or Matthias?
The WTS has supported both views.
ENTIRE CONGREGATION OF ANOINTED CHRISTIANS…prove to be such a pillar
Q18) Why are congregation meetings vital?
18) Similarly, the worldwide Christian congregation is God's household, "a pillar and support of the truth." Our regular atten¬dance at and participation in the meetings of our local congregation is a key way for us to be built up, strengthened in our relationship with God, and prepared to do his will. Writing to the congregation in Corinth, Paul focused on what was said at such meetings. He wrote that he desired that what was said at their meetings be clear and understandable so that those attending could be "built up." (1 Corinthians 14:12, 17-19) We today can be built up if we recognize that Jehovah God has authorized the arrangement for local congregations and is supporting it.
Regular attendance...meetings--the rank and file are voting with feet and pocketbook
Relationship with God--where's Jesus?
Meetings be clear and understandable--food provided by WTS and cooked by elders; if it smells and looks like a cow pie........
But are the JW local congregations authorized by God?
Q19) Why do you feel indebted to your congregation?
19) Yes, if we desire to be built up as Chris¬tians, our place is within the congregation. It has long proved to be a bulwark against false teachings, and God has been using it to have the good news of his Messianic Kingdom declared around the globe. With¬out a doubt, God has accomplished much through the Christian congregation.-Ephesians 3:9, 10.
Christians—only JWs are true Christians, the rest are false, professed, so-called.
Are the JWs the true congregation?
Do JWs talk about the GOOD NEWS of the KINGDOM and mention the Messiah JESUS in doing so when they come to your door or when you remember back to the canned presentations suggested to the rank and file?
Well if you count the recent settlement with various children sexually victimized by JW members as something to be proud of? I’m proud of the victims for coming forward and all those who assisted them to be brave. Shame on the WTS for putting their “good” name ahead of the love and emotional support the victims need.
What things can you think of that the WTS has not to be proud of, perhaps sacrificing their children on the altar of the changing blood transfusion doctrine?
Concluding Comments
For those who are reading for the first time and think I am hard on the elders, my husband was an elder for several years and I am from a 3 generation JW family with elders galore. The good ones burn out, burn up, flame out, give up before their personality is inexorably altered. Us women have to realize we love these guys and they need our support in leaving.
Did you all like meeting so many ex-JWs in Dallas. Well, another chance is coming up in July to see Englishman and his lovely wife. Then he can see that people in the US all talk funny and in many different ways. 50 states, really 50 fiefdoms. There’s an apostafest coming up August 25 in Wisconsin. Cheese and all the beer you can drink on JH (If this is your first time). Is that Canadian beer?
Love, Blondie
Irreverent is getting antsy. Time to finish our chores. Lacking little physical strength and just a modicum of brain power, I must assist. Then perhaps he will take me to Spiderman (if I can stay awake).
Can You Recall?
• Why should we expect that God would be using congregations on earth?
• What do elders, though imperfect, do for the congregation?
• How are you being built up by the local congregation?