Has anybody noticed in many recent Watchtowers that Christ is now said to have "turned his attention to the Earth in 1914."
Unlike the 60's they do not say Christ "came" in 1914. The "Proclaimers book " p137 says the Bible students came to discern that "Christ did not return, (even invisibly), in 1914."
The way is now paved. Just as in the recent Generation Change Witchtower they mention "THE CONTEXT" - which in that infamous rag, prompted them to the NOOLITE. (As if they had not already considered the context!!):
from "HAPPY IN LIFELONG SERVICE. "At my guard post I shall keep standing."(Habakkuk 2:1)
"Interpreting Jesus' words about the "slave" at Matthew 24:45-50 and Luke 12:42-46, some have concluded that the "Faithful and Discreet Slave" was appointed over all Christ's "belongings" in 1919. However, does a careful reading, in context, of these verses show this to be the case?
The "Master" is said to appoint the "slave" upon "arriving". (Matt. 24:46, 47) True, there are still those who think that Jesus came in kingly power during the fall of 1914. (Matt 24:42) They fail to understand that this is when he turned his attention to mankind's affairs, thus marking the start of his parousia or "presence". At that time he did not return to the vicinity of the Earth, even invisibly. (See "Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's Kingdom" p137, published by Jehovah's Witnesses) The "arrival" of the King, as shown in the parable of "sheep and goats", is yet future, with the outbreak of the "Great Tribulation". (Matt. 25: 31, 32) At that time, those who make up the "Faithful" Slave class have the prospect of being resurrected to heavenly life, to serve as Kings and Priests" with Christ. (Rev. 20:4b) They will indeed preside over all the earthly interests of Jehovah's Kingdom! (Matt 24: 47)
Before this happens, there would have to be an extensive period of time allowed for the "evil slave" class to reveal itself. (Matt. 24:48) Impatient ones may feel that the "Master is delaying," since upwards of ninety years have passed since the end of the "Gentile Times." They cease being in "expectation". Pursuing worldly education and careers, they involve themselves in all this dying system has to offer. (Luke 21:34) Why, some have even mocked Jehovah's faithful ones as cult dupes! ( Matt. 24:49; 2 Peter 3:3)
Such scoffers, sneer at the changes that come with ever brighter light. Yet, during this period, has it not become clear to honest-hearted ones just who is giving out "food at the proper time?" As dedicated servants of God may we never turn our back on the channel Jehovah uses to feed his people, his clean Earthly Organization. Remember Jesus' words at Matthew 24: 44: "at an hour you do not think to be it the Son of Man is coming."
Ain't noolite dazzling!!
HB