DocBob

Joined

• started 15 topics
• posted 409 times   see topics posted on
• send a message

Posts by DocBob

• 
  91

  WHAT`s YOUR FAVORITE BEER!

  by OUTLAW in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  i like molson canadian,except when i`m out of the country.then i only drink imported beer...molson canadian.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  Terminator Stout at the Cornelius Pass Roadhouse and Brewery in Hillboro Oregon. I shared a pitcher or two with Alan and Julie F there a few years ago. Ah, what times those were :)
• 
  50

  Cult Fighters are short sighted fools

  by proplog2 in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  the anti-cultists are narrow minded and uninformed to say the least.. you see a lot of this here.

  it is mostly a cover for irrational hatred.

  most religions organized in a way that they expected their members to take their beliefs seriously.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  At present "cult" is an almost useless label. In the case of JW's you have to consider the fact that the vast majority of the six million members are happy with their "religion".

  The happiness of its members says little about how benign or dangerous a religion is. I am sure that the vast majority of the members of the People's Temple were very happy with their religion, as are the members of the Church of Scientology, Hare Krishnas, Aum Shinrikyo and similar groups.

  Bob
• 
  5

  So Who's Going to WNFJ?

  by NeonMadman in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  -just curious who's going to be at the witnesses now for jesus conference in pennsylvania come october 19-22. i'm definitely going to be there, and i'd love to run into lots of you good folks.... the program has been posted at http://pfo.org

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  I'll be there - wouldn't miss it!! This will be our 4th year there
• 
  8

  WT policy on funerals and memorials?

  by Mulan in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  can anyone tell me the current policy for funerals and memorial services?.

  mom was here today and evening, stayed for dinner, and we talked about the services for henry.

  she wants there to be a portion of the service where people in attendance can tell things they want to say about him.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  Hi Lisa,

  It sure is cold. Sad that we used find it comforting and encouraging. (I still can't write or say that word "encouraging" without a bit of a chill.)
• 
  8

  WT policy on funerals and memorials?

  by Mulan in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  can anyone tell me the current policy for funerals and memorial services?.

  mom was here today and evening, stayed for dinner, and we talked about the services for henry.

  she wants there to be a portion of the service where people in attendance can tell things they want to say about him.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  I remember a letter from the WTS while I was an elder that specifically prohibited allowing anyone who wanted to speak at a JW memorial. Here is the text of the outline for funeral talks that was in use before I stepped down in 1995. I don't know if it has been revised since then:

  FUNERAL DISCOURSE

  REMARKS REGARDING THE DECEASED (Use any that apply and are appropriate.)
  Details regarding age, birth, when married, and so forth
  By whom the deceased is survived
  Dedication record, including privileges of service
  Exemplary qualities displayed by the deceased (Eccl. 7:1)

  THE HOPE THE DECEASED ENTERTAINED
  Worshiped Jehovah, the God of wisdom, justice, love, power
  Had faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12)
  Appreciated God's purpdse regarding earth (Gen. 1:28)
  Sure to be realized (Isa. 11:9; 55:10, 11; Rev. 21:4)

  Why good people die
  Disobedience of Adam (-Gen. 3:19; contrast with Genesis 2:7.)
  Offspring inherited deat6 (Rom. 5:12)

  Condition of the dead
  Soul is mortal (Ezek 18:4, 20)
  Dead are unconscious (Ps. 146:4; Eccl. 3:19; 9:5, 10)
  The resurredion hope
  Made possible by sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Matt. 20:28)
  Christ's resurrection a guarantee (1 Cor. 15:22, 23)
  God uses Jesus to raise the dead (John 5:28, 29)
  For the anointed, resurrection is to heavenly life (1 Cor. 15:51-54; Rev. 20:4, 6)
  "Other sheep" resurrected to life in earthly Paradise (Luke 23:43; John 10:16)
  Armageddon survivors can hope to see the deceased one again soon
  Others too are in line for resurrection (Ads 24:15)

  WHY IT IS GOOD TO GO TO HOUSE OF MOURNING
  Can comfort the bereaved; loss is mutual
  Take to heart uncertainty of life (Ps. 90:12; Eccl. 7:2)
  Makes us think about how we are using our life

  HOW WE CAN BENEFIT FROM BEING HERE
  While living, make good name with Jehovah God (Eccl. 7:1)
  Lay up treasures in heaven (Matt. 6:19-21)
  One way is to take zealous part in witness work, if qualified (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20)
  In this way and by godly conduct, we contribute to sanctification of Jehovah's name
  (Prov. 27:11)
  Resurredion hope an incentive to learn and do divine will(l Cor. 15:58)

  (Note: Instead of eulogizing the deceased, use the material in this outline to give a fine witness
  concerning the truth. Good balance should be observed in this reaped. Dodrinal points can be
  presented as beliefs of the deceased, which served as motivation for him. Purpose of talk is to
  uphold Jehovah God as a God of love and mercy and at the same time bring comfort to the
  bereaved. Use of a song such as No. 102 (53) or 187 (93) is optional. A brief prayer at the close
  is fitting When arrangement is made to go to the grave, it is well to consider quite briefly the
  hope through the Kingdom, reading one or two scriptures, such as Job 14:14, 15 and
  1 Corinthians 15:5413-57. This service may also be closed with prayer, thanking Jehovah for
  the resurrection hope, which is of great comfort. The talk need not exceed 30 minutes.)

  Printed in U.S.A.
  S-3 11/90
• 
  44

  funniest signs

  by buffalosrfree in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  i was driving down the street the other day and seen a sign for a store the sign read.. "kocks liquor" .

  i immediately had visions rolling about my head.

  talk about roflmao.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  Sign at the entrance road of the Kingdom Hall I used to attend:

  DEAD END
• 
  46

  WTBTS Innocent in Swaggart Case?

  by troubled in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  awhile back, i saw information on another web site about the wtbts's involvement with the swaggart case.

  the information was presented in a way that depicted the wtbts as involved with the swaggart case and, therefore, false religion.. at first, i was shocked.

  however, i did some research on what an amicus curie is.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  Here is the text of the letter announcing the "donation arrangement"

  ----------------------

  February 9, 1990
  TO ALL CONGREGATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES AND ITS TERRITORIES

  Dear Brothers:
  Our reigning King, Jesus, completed a remarkable ministry during the final three-and-a-half years of his earthly life. As the apostle John wrote, "the world itself could not contain the scrolls written" if all of what Jesus accomplished while on earth were recorded. (John 21:25) He was able to do so much because he gave theocratic interests the primary importance they deserved. As he said to his followers, "My food is for me to do the will of him that sent me and to finish his work."-John 4:34.
  Putting theocratic interests first meant that Jesus had to set priorities. While visiting in the house of Mary and Martha, he counseled Martha because she gave undue attention to matters other than the spiritual food Jesus was dispensing. He told her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and disturbed about many things. A few things, though, are needed, or just one." - Luke 10:41, 42.
  First century Christians followed Jesus' lead in this matter. The apostle Paul wrote, ''And this is what I continue praying, that your love may abound yet more and more with accurate knowledge and full discernment; that you may make sure of the more important things,... and may be filled with righteous fruit, which is through Jesus Christ, to God's glory and praise."--Philippians 1:9-11.
  In our day the 'faithful slave' is equally concerned with giving theocratic interests their rightful primary importance. So that This may be accomplished, the "slave" class has directed the implementation of many programs aimed at simplification For example, in 1978 the Society standardized and simplified the district convention arrangements. This simplification did away with many job assignments and significantly reduced many of those that remained. As a result, all are now able to give primary attention to the rich spiritual food provided each year.
  The August 1986 issue of Our Kingdom Ministry announced a simplification regarding the field service report of our regular pioneers. In September of 1987 further simplification led to adjustments for the circuit assembly programs, and special assembly days were inaugurated.
  Jehovah has richly blessed these efforts to simplify. The work is continuing to grow worldwide at a rapid pace. (Isaiah 60:22) Additionally, many have noted that secular authorities are increasingly viewing certain religious activities as commercial. As in the past, the Society continues to see the need to highlight the spiritual nature of our theocratic organization and to clearly distinguish our activities from those of Babylon the Great. To this end, the Society is pleased to announce that starting March 1, 1990, literature distribution procedures in the United States will be adjusted. From that date, all the Society's literature will be made available to publishers and to the interested public on a complete donation basis. This will emphasize our reliance on Jehovah's spirit while also simplifying certain operations both for the Society and for the congregations. Some may have questions regarding this new arrangement which we would now like to consider.

  What is meant by complete donation basis?
  This means that magazines and literature will be provided to publishers and to the interested public without asking or even suggesting that a specific contribution be made as a precondition to receiving an item. Voluntary contributions or donations will be accepted from publishers and such interested ones to continue the worldwide work of publishing the good news. It is important that all of you and the public understand that making a contribution or donation is not a precondition to receiving a publication. Naturally, this does not mean that literature should be given to those who do not appreciate it and who would not read it.
  --Compare Matthew 7:6.

  How does the complete donation arrangement affect the distribution of literature at the Kingdom Hall?
  When a publisher or interested person wishes to pick up literature or magazines at the Kingdom Hall, he may do so without having to 'pay for' the items requested. The Society will simply give the individual the literature requested. No money will be expected, requested, or collected at the magazine or literature counter. Those motivated to contribute to the publishing and distribution of the literature should put their donations in the boxes marked "Contributions for the Society's Worldwide Work.--Matthew 24:14."

  How will literature be offered in the field?
  When offering literature in our public ministry, we will give our witness as usual and offer the publications to interested persons to provide them further knowledge on the subject. The recipient should agree that he will read the literature, but we will not suggest a specific donation for it. However, after the person has agreed to read the publication, we may explain how the work is done voluntarily worldwide to help people learn the way to everlasting life. It is all supported by voluntary donations. Then you may ask the person if he would like to help the Society accomplish its work worldwide by making a small donation. If he wishes to make such a donation it will be appreciated.
  Any who wish to make a donation to defray the expenses of our educational work may do so, but they may receive the literature whether or not a donation is made. At the next Service Meeting, special information will be presented to demonstrate this method of literature distribution. If you note any publishers not present today, please contact them and let them know of this special Service Meeting. This new field service arrangement will go into effect immediately following that meeting.

  What about subscriptions to The Watchtower, Awake!, and cassettes?
  Adjustments will take place in this area as well. Subscription service to The Watchtower, Awake!, and cassettes will be discontinued as such. All publishers should immediately turn over to the brother handling subscriptions any one-year or six-month subscriptions that have already been obtained and these should be mailed to the Society this week. As of the reading of this letter, no one should prepare requests for additional new or renewal subscriptions.
  The Society will continue for now, however, to honor the subscriptions currently on file. Once your personal subscription expires you should obtain magazines and cassettes for your own personal use, as well as for use in the held ministry, from the local congregation.
  For many years- congregation publishers have been encouraged to have a magazine route. A magazine route will care for persons desiring to receive the magazines on a regular basis. These return visits will give publishers the opportunity to further cultivate interest shown by individuals and be a stimulus to starting new home Bible studies. The service overseer will assist publishers in developing such routes.

  How will the Society's worldwide work including the printing and distribution of its literature be financed"
  Boxes labeled "Contributions for the Society's Worldwide Work.--Matthew 24:14" will be made available near the magazine and literature counters. The amounts received in these boxes will be sent monthly to the Society. These funds will be used to defray the cost of the Society's overall operations, as well as providing for needed worldwide expansion.

  With what spirit should each one view the new arrangement'!
  ehovah is progressively guiding his people through these critical times, giving them the wisdom from above, necessary to keep the preaching work moving speedily in the face of many snares laid by Satan. (Psalm 32:8; Isaiah 30:21) Under the leadership of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have been conducted into the spiritual paradise in which we now carry on the holy work of the good news. We have tasted the joy of being part of Jehovah's spirit-filled organization.- Psalm 34:8.
  To meet changing conditions, Jehovah's spirit guides his theocratic organization. While contributions have always been voluntary, the complete donation arrangement allows for individual initiative and conscientious attention to meet the expenses of Jehovah's spirit-directed organization. Now each of us has an increased moral responsibility and privilege to honor Jehovah with our valuable things. (Proverbs 3:9) How we 'respond to the leadings of Jehovah's spirit as we make our contributions will reflect our heightened awareness that Jehovah considers us trustworthy.-l Corinthians 4:1, 2.
  The Society sincerely appreciates the financial support and cooperation it has received from the worldwide brotherhood. All donations will continue to be used wisely to support Kingdom interests. We ale confident that those who appreciate the priceless truth of God's Word and the value of all the Society's provisions, including the production of Bible-based publications, will continue to be motivated from the heart to contribute generously toward this work right up to the end of this old system. (2 Corinthians 9:6-14) We can place full trust in Jehovah knowing that he can "do more than superabundantly beyond all the things we ask or conceive."-Ephesians 3:20.

  Your fellow proclaimers of the Good News,

  Watchtower B & T Society of New York, Inc.
• 
  21

  "Winston Smith" died Friday

  by HoChiMin in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  fellow posters;.

  sad news.

  winston smith (screen name) a fellow poster and friend died friday july 20, 2001 at 43 years old.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  I am totally shocked!!! I just got in touch with Ed recently and was supposed to meet up with him sometime soon. I think we worked together at district conventions several years ago.

  HoChiMin and Esmarelda, please email me at [email protected].
• 
  3

  New Hampshire anyone?

  by trendspeak in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  let's hook up!

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  I am right next door in Maine. Drop me an email at [email protected]
• 
  23

  The Last Days in the 14th Century

  by JanH in

  1. jw
  2. friends

  the last days in the 14th century .

  all through recorded history there have been people who have pointed to the calamities, horrors and disasters in the world, and preached that this signified an imminent end of the world.

  this isnt even unique to christianity, which started off with strong millennial expectations in the 1st century, and for the most part retains the same expectations almost 2000 years later.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  DocBob

  Jan,

  Good summary of the facts on this. Barbara Tuchman's "A Distant Mirror" is a good book that covers similar ground.