Help! I need some clarification on a few issues

Leander

Today I was thinking about how the 1st century christians had several congregations in place as well as a governing body. So I'm wondering is that a valid reason for there to be a current governing body today?

Also I've been contemplating the issue of preaching. For years the WTS has used Matthews 28:19,20 as the basis for EVERY witness to engage in preaching. However in that scripture Jesus is giving that command only to a select few disciples. Did that same command apply to other first century christians?

If someone could give me some insight on those 2 things I would greatly appreciate it. I want to be well prepared in the event my family counters with those lines of reasoning.

dungbeetle

No governing body. That's a Watchtower lie.

And for proof, ask Watchtower the Greek or Hebrew or Aramaic name for 'governing body' or 'oganization' for that matter...

AGuest

Dear Leander... peace to you and may I ask, what 'governing body'?

If you are referring to the WTBTS' erroneous teaching regarding the decision on blood, etc., a review of the account will show that James... ALONE... made the initial 'decision', and that after considering it, the ENTIRE CONGREGATION made the decision to dispatch Paul and Barnabas with a letter... SIGNED by the apostles and older men and stating they had the agreement of holy spirit. This latter fact was solely to help those in receipt of the letter know the credence of it.

But there never has been nor never will be 'governing body' for the true christian congregation. Proof? My Lord's words at:

Matthew 23:1-10

You can see the 'lot' of such 'leaders', if you read past verse 10.

But perhaps you know something the rest of us don't? If so, I would most certainly like to hear of it.

Peace to you!

A slave of Christ,

SJ

wokeup

Leander, In response to your second question re:Mat.28:19,20 Jesus was here talking to the faithful 11 on the mountain. The WTBS has eluded to Acts 15:6 in conjunction with Mat.28:19,20 over the years in the publications to insinuate that Jesus gave the command to preach to "all" his disciples.
Another interesting point is the non-use by the society to use the parallel scriptures found at Mark 16:15-19 {he that believes and is baptized will be saved} and Luke 24:47 {repentance for forgiveness of sins would be preached in all the nations.} because the message is too simple and the society has gone beyond the things written.
One last thought. The society often forgets to include verse 18 of that Chapter where Jesus says "ALL authority has been given me in heaven and on earth" because they don't teach Jesus is all powerful till he hands over the Kingdom to his Father mentioned at 1Cor.15:28

Nemesis

Hi Leander,

For a good explanation showing there was no first century Governing Body, read pages 38 to 68 (chapter 3, Centralised Authority) of Ray Franz’s book ‘In Search of Christian Freedom’. And for your other question about the preaching, read pages 207 to 236 (Chapter 7, From House to House) of the same book. You will find excellent points of reasoning there that should answer your questions.