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  20

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the WT Study (10/15 Teach Children)

  by WT Comments in

  1. watchtower
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  soliciting your comments as well!

  please take a moment to post a comment, even if brief.

  share your experience and keep the topic active.. .

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  WT Comments

  Soliciting your comments as well!
  Please take a moment to post a comment, even if brief. Share your experience and keep the topic active.
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  13

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the WT Study (10/8 Train Children)

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  23

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the WT Study (10/7 Suffering)

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  Comments You Will Not Hear at the Watchtower Study (Justice)

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  Comments You Will Not Hear at the Watchtower Study (RICH)

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  25

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the WT Study (COVETOUSNESS)

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  22

  WT Comments is Expanding

  by WT Comments in

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  just a teaser.... new wt comments website.

  wt comments will continue to be posted here on jwd as an embedded page.

  stay tuned this weekend....

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  WT Comments

  Just a teaser...

  New WT Comments Website

  WT Comments will continue to be posted here on JWD as an embedded page. Stay tuned this weekend...
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  31

  Comments You Won't Hear at the 9/9/07 WT Study (ENDURANCE)

  by WT Comments in

  1. watchtower
  2. bible

  q7) although some are afraid to speak in public or to attend a meeting, how do they show endurance?.

  q22, 23) of what can you be sure as you await jehovah's day with endurance?.

  official encouragement comes from the pages of the wts publications such as this fine example.. how would you respond?.

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  WT Comments

  Comments You Won't Hear at the 9/9/07 WT Study (ENDURANCE)
  (WT 7/15/07 pages 27-31)

  Review comments will be in red
  WT material from the study WT will be in black
  Quotes from other sources will be in black italics
  AW = Awake! magazine
  GB = Governing Body, small group of men that control JW doctrine
  KH = Kingdom Hall, JW meeting place
  JW = Jehovah's Witnesses
  WT = Watchtower magazine
  WTS = "Watchtower Society", the organization directing JWs worldwide

  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

  OPENING COMMENTS

  "There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other." -Douglas H. Everett

  AWAITING JEHOVAH'S DAY WITH ENDURANCE

  "Supply to your faith ... endurance."-2 PETER 1:5, 6.

  Q1, 2) What is endurance, and why do Christians need it?

  1) Jehovah's great day is very near. (Joel 1:15; Zephaniah 1:14) As Christians determined to maintain our integrity to God, we eagerly await that time when Jehovah's sovereignty will be vindicated. Meanwhile, we face hatred, reproach, persecution, and death for our faith. (Matthew 5:10-12; 10:22; Revelation 2:10) This calls for endurance--the ability to withstand adversity. The apostle Peter urges us: "Supply to your faith ... endurance." (2 Peter 1:5, 6) We need endurance, for Jesus said: "He that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved."-Matthew 24:13.

  Jehovah's great day is very near. As we approach the 100th anniversary of 1914 how long can the WTS keep a straight face? Two reference scriptures here:

  "because the day of Jehovah is near" -Joel 1:15 written about 820 BC"The great day of Jehovah is near. It is near, and there is a hurrying [of it] very much" -Zephaniah 1:1written about 659-629 BC

  Keep waiting folks! Even if you are a believer, at least see a pattern here...

  2) We also experience illness, bereavement, and other trials. How pleased Satan would be if our faith were to give out! (Luke 22:31, 32) With Jehovah's support, we can endure various trials. (1 Peter 5:6-11) Consider some real-life experiences that prove that we can wait for Jehovah's day with endurance and undiminished faith.

  We are going on a guilt trip folks. If you don't have it this bad then why aren't you pioneering?

  Picture on page 27 [Woman in powered wheelchair--accompanied by standing woman holding Bible--hands magazine to man on street, all wear winter clothing]

  Illness Has Not Stopped Them

  Q3, 4) Give an example to show that we can serve Jehovah faithfully despite illness.

  3) God does not now cure us miraculously, but he does give us the fortitude to endure illness. (Psalm 41:1-3) "For as long as I can recall," said Sharon, "the wheelchair has been my constant companion. From birth on, cerebral palsy robbed me of childhood joys." Learning about Jehovah and his promises of perfect health gave Sharon hope. Although she speaks and walks with difficulty, she finds joy in the Christian ministry. Some 15 years ago, she said: "My health may continue to fail, but my trust in God and my relationship with him are my lifelines. How happy I am to be among Jehovah's people and to have his unfailing support!"

  Learning about Jehovah and his promises of perfect health gave Sharon hope.This is a real hook that keep so many weak and weary are hung from. This is a real gamble though. Sharon's youth was robbed by cerebral palsy--will the rest of her life be stolen by a cult?

  4) The apostle Paul urged Christians in Thessalonica to "speak consolingly to the depressed souls." (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Such factors as grave disappointment can cause depression. In 1993, Sharon wrote: "Feeling like an utter failure, I . . . plunged into a three-year period of deep depression. . . . Comfort and counsel came from the elders. . . . Through The Watchtower, Jehovah tenderly provided insight into severe depression. Yes, he does care for his people and understands our feelings." (1 Peter 5:6, 7) Sharon is still serving God faithfully as she awaits Jehovah's great day.

  Physical illness = no excuse for missing service.

  In 1992 Sharon said: "How happy I am to be among Jehovah's people"
  In 1993 Sharon said: "Feeling like an utter failure, I . . . plunged into a three-year period of deep depression"

  Through The Watchtower, Jehovah tenderly provided insight into severe depression. No mention of mental health experts.

  Is the recruiting of unstable or depressed people resulting in a larger proportion of mental health or is the control tactics of the WTS crippling minds? You decide...

  Interesting report: Why Jehovah's Witnesses Have Mental Problemshttp://www.premier1.net/~raines/mental.html

  Q5) What proof is there that Christians can endure considerable stress?

  5) Some Christians suffer considerable stress because of past experiences in life. Harley saw heavy combat in World War II and had nightmares about warfare. While asleep, he would scream: "Watch out! Look out!" Upon awakening, he would be soaking wet with perspiration. However, he was able to pursue a godly life, and in time the intensity and frequency of such dreams diminished.

  Some Christains...JWs only

  Is the WT saying that being able to "pursue a godly life" (aka JW) caused the dreams to diminish? Read carefully...

  Q6) How did one Christian face emotional problems?

  6) One Christian diagnosed with bipolar disorder found it very difficult to preach from door to door. He persisted, however, because he realized that the ministry means life for him and for those responding favorably. (1 Timothy 4:16) Sometimes he could not bring himself to the point of ringing the doorbell, but he said: "After a while, I would be able to bring my emotions under control, go to the next door, and try again. By continuing to share in the ministry, I maintained reasonable spiritual health." Attending meetings was also a challenge, but this brother was convinced of the value of spiritual association. Therefore, he made the effort required to be present.-Hebrews 10:24, 25.

  he realized that the ministry means life for him...or everlasting destruction if he didn't

  By continuing to share in the ministry, I maintained reasonable spiritual health.This means a regular publisher turning in time, nothing to do with "spirituality" apparently.Attending meetings ... the value of spiritual association. Again the "spiritual" label. Do you, did you find JW association after meeting rather non-religious? I know I do.

  Emotional problems = no excuse for skipping meetings and door-to-door service.

  Does even God suffer from Bipolar Disorder?http://www.theonion.com/content/node/28484

  Q7) Although some are afraid to speak in public or to attend a meeting, how do they show endurance?

  7) Some Christians have phobias--excessive fears of certain situations or objects. For instance, they may be afraid to speak in public or even to attend a meeting. Imagine how hard it is for them to comment at Christian meetings or to give a talk in the Theocratic Ministry School! Yet, they are enduring, and we greatly appreciate their presence and participation.

  Social phobias = no excuse for missing meetings, commenting, not joining the TM School.

  What is the pattern here? Too many JWs are using excuses to not participate. "I'm depressed." "I'm afraid of public speaking." "I've got _____-phobia." This is the silver bullet for faders and the WTS does not know how to counteract the phenomenon.

  NEWS FLASH to the WTS. Your dwindling membership is happier on the outside.

  Q8) What is especially effective when coping with emotional difficulties?

  8) More rest and sleep may help a person to endure emotional difficulties. Medical help may be advisable. Especially effective, however, is prayerful reliance on God. "Throw your burden upon Jehovah himself, and he himself will sustain you," says Psalm 55:22. "Never will he allow the righteous one to totter." By all means, then, "trust in Jehovah with all your heart."-Proverbs 3:5, 6.

  More rest and sleep...Second time this has been in the WT recently. "Added rest may be helpful" (WT 7/15/2007 pg 20 ppg 19) Does the FDS realize how consuming a JW schedule takes? I think so...

  Combatting Cult Mind Control by Steven Hassan
  Behavior Control
  Most groups have a stringent schedule for members. There is always something to do in these groups. It has its own distinctive set of behaviours that bind it together.

  KM 1/95 "Always Plenty To Do"
  "We must prepare for and attend weekly congregation meetings. We are encouraged not to let a week go by without having some share in the field ministry. Sufficient time must be regularly set aside for personal and family Bible study. Elders and ministerial servants have many congregation assignments. At times we are asked to help worthy ones in need. 2 Occasionally, some of us may feel overwhelmed by all that we have to do. Yet, the busiest people can be among the happiest if balance and proper perspective are maintained. [...] 6 There is an added benefit in having plenty to do. When we are busy pursuing a healthy spiritual routine, time seems to go by much faster. Realizing that each day that passes brings us closer to the new world, we gladly accept the full life we enjoy now. We also realize the wisdom of staying busy, inasmuch as we have less time to get involved in futile worldly pursuits."

  Even sincere JWs are simply running out of gas. Depending on a lifetime of broken promises is rotting their brains. Anti-depressant medication among JWs is rampant. Would you be depressed if all your children left "the truth" and have no intention of returning? How many JWs do you know like that?

  Enduring Bereavement

  Q9-11) (a) What can help us to endure sorrow when a loved one dies? (b) How can Anna's example help us to endure bereavement?

  9) When death separates family members, such great loss can result in deep sorrow. Abraham wept over the death of his beloved wife, Sarah. (Genesis 23:2) Even the perfect man Jesus "gave way to tears" when his friend Lazarus died. (John 11:35) So it is natural to experience sadness when death claims someone you love. However, Christians know that there will be a resurrection. (Acts 24:15) Hence, they do not "sorrow just as the rest also do who have no hope." -1 Thessalonians 4:13.

  10) How can we cope with bereavement? Perhaps an illustration will be helpful. We do not usually experience prolonged sadness when a friend goes on a journey, since we expect to see him again when he returns. Taking a similar view of the death of a faithful Christian may lessen our grief because we know that he is in line for a resurrection.-Ecclesiastes 7:1.

  because we know that he is in line for a resurrection...Who is judging here?

  11) Complete reliance on "the God of all comfort" will help us to endure bereavement. (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4) So will reflecting on what was done by the first-century widow Anna. She became a widow after only seven years of marriage. But at the age of 84, she was still rendering sacred service to Jehovah at the temple. (Luke 2:36-38) Such a devout life undoubtedly helped her to cope with grief and loneliness. Regular participation in Christian activities, including the Kingdom preaching work, can help us to endure the effects of bereavement.

  ...undoubtedly...Logical Fallacy: Post Hoc. The WT is fictionalizing conclusions here.

  How can I say this sensitively? When a JW dies, the WTS must rejoice. Every JW relative is further cinched into the JW noose, with hope to see the deceased tied directly to religious performance.

  How does a JW grieve? Regular participation in Christian activities, including the Kingdom preaching work, can help us to endure... The catchall prescription: PRODUCTION.

  Picture on page 28: Reliance on Jehovah enables us to endure bereavement [Older couple sit with middle-aged and crying pre-teen son in home. Widower is looking at photo in foreground placed next to Bible and 32-page publication.]

  Dealing With Various Trials

  Q12) Some Christians have endured what trial related to family life?

  12) Some Christians must endure trials related to family life. For instance, if a mate commits adultery, what devastating effects that can have! Because of the shock and grief, the betrayed marriage partner may be unable to sleep and may weep uncontrollably. Performing simple tasks may be so stressful that mistakes are made or accidents occur. The innocent mate may be unable to eat, may lose weight, and may become emotionally troubled. It may be difficult to engage in Christian activities. And how greatly the children may be affected!

  Marital infidelity/divorce is a huge problem among JWs. My observation is that JWs are getting divorced at the same rate as anyone else. Why do you think that is?

  devastating effects...may weep uncontrollably...simple tasks may be so stressful...Does this language seem clinical and stilted to you?

  Hierarchy of "devastating effects: 1) personally troubled 2) difficult to engage in Christian activities 3) the children are last???

  Q13, 14) (a) What encouragement do you get from Solomon's prayer at the inauguration of the temple? (b) Why do we pray for holy spirit?

  13) When we experience such trials, Jehovah provides the help we need. (Psalm 94:19) God hears the prayers of his people, as shown in King Solomon's prayer at the inauguration of Jehovah's temple. Solomon prayed to God: "Whatever prayer, whatever request for favor there may occur on the part of any man or of all your people Israel, because they know each one the plague of his own heart, and they actually spread out their palms to this house, then may you yourself hear from the heavens, your established place of dwelling, and you must forgive and act and give to each one according to all his ways, because you know his heart (for you yourself alone well know the heart of all the sons of mankind); to the end that they may fear you all the days that they are alive upon the surface of the ground that you gave to our forefathers."-1 Kings 8:38-40.

  Soloman: the child of David and Bathsheba, a marriage built on adultery, murder and betrayal. Irony alert.

  Jehovah provides the help we need. Watch out for the fine print:

  Bible Teach Book chap. 17 p. 173 Draw Close to God in Prayer
  Jehovah may answer our prayers in a way that is not obvious to us. For example, he may answer our prayer regarding a particular trial, not by removing the difficulty, but by giving us the strength to endure it.

  "Thank you for calling the Jehovah hotline, your call is important to us. Please leave a message and your prayer will be answered by the next ambiguous circumstance you happen to identify with ... beep."

  14) It can be especially helpful to keep on praying for holy spirit. (Matthew 7:7-11) The fruitage of the spirit includes such qualities as joy and peace. (Galatians 5:22, 23) What relief is felt when our heavenly Father answers our prayers--joy replaces grief, and peace takes the place of anguish!

  15) What scriptures can help to allay our anxiety?

  15) A certain amount of anxiety is to be expected when we must endure great stress. But at least some of this concern may be allayed if we bear in mind these words of Jesus: "Stop being anxious about your souls as to what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your bodies as to what you will wear. ... Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and [God's] righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:25, 33, 34) The apostle Peter urges us to `throw all our anxiety upon God, because he cares for us.' (1 Peter 5:6, 7) It is proper to make efforts to solve a problem. After we have done what we can, however, worry cannot take the place of prayer. "Roll upon Jehovah your way, and rely upon him, and he himself will act," sang the psalmist.-Psalm 37:5.

  Does being a JW add to one's anxiety?

  • Discourages college education, directly impacts career choices
  • A whole generation of baby-boomer JWs too old to work their janitorial and service jobs
  • An ambiguous "no-blood" doctrine that also permits all fractions
  • Policy of keeping pedophile members names secret from concerned parents
  • Unstable end-times predictions that 6 million JWs have bet their lives on
  • Constant "Do More" dictates from the FDS

  Is "Jehovah" really the source of anxiety for a JW?

  16, 17) (a) Why are we not entirely free of anxiety? (b) What will we experience if we apply Philippians 4:6, 7?

  16) Paul wrote: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4: 6, 7) Naturally, imperfect descendants of Adam cannot be totally free of anxiety. (Romans 5:12) The Hittite wives of Esau "were a source of bitterness of spirit" to Esau's godly parents, Isaac and Rebekah. (Genesis 26:34, 35) Illness must have caused anxiety for such Christians as Timothy and Trophimus. (1 Timothy 5:23; 2 Timothy 4:20) Paul had anxiety for fellow believers. (2 Corinthians 11:28) But the "Hearer of prayer" is always there for those who love him.-Psalm 65:2.

  Paul was a big talker.Do not be anxious over anything...OR...there is what rushes in on me from day to day, the anxiety for all the congregations.

  17) As we await Jehovah's day, we have support and comfort from "the God of peace." (Philippians 4:9) Jehovah is "merciful and gracious," he is "good and ready to forgive," and `he remembers that we are dust.' (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 86:5; 103:13, 14) So let us `make our petitions known to him,' for this will result in our having "the peace of God"--tranquillity that surpasses human comprehension.

  So let us `make our petitions known to him,' Doesn't God know already? Isn't it just a mind-job then? Something to discuss...

  Q18) As noted at Job 42:5, how is it possible to "see" God?

  18) When our prayers are answered, we know that God is with us. After Job endured his trials, he said: "In hearsay I have heard about you [Jehovah], but now my own eye does see you." (Job 42:5) With the eye of understanding, faith, and gratitude, we can reflect on God's dealings with us and can "see" him as never before. How such intimacy brings us peace of heart and mind!

  The brief story of Job: Good man gets noticed by Satan. God allows Satan to murder his children and devastate Job's health to prove that Job isn't worshipping God for the benefits. But God replaces all the material loss anyway and another litter of kids from his bitch wife. Why? So God could prove he was right to his other sprit buddies.

  With the eye of understanding, faith, and gratitude, we can reflect on God's dealings...In other words, don't be too objective. What would an unconditional analysis of God's dealings in the Old Testament reveal?

  Q19) What will happen if we `throw all our anxiety on Jehovah'?

  19) If we `throw all our anxiety on Jehovah,' we can endure trials with an inner calm that guards our heart and mental powers. Deep in our figurative heart, we will experience freedom from uneasiness, fear, and alarm. Our mind will not be unsettled by perplexity or anxiety.

  Deep in our figurative heart...what is this?

  Insight Vol 1 p. 1057 Heart
  The Figurative Heart. In the great majority of its occurrences in the Scriptures, the word "heart" is used figuratively. It is said to stand for "the central part in general, the inside, and so for the interior man as manifesting himself in all his various activities, in his desires, affections, emotions, passions, purposes, his thoughts, perceptions, imaginations, his wisdom, knowledge, skill, his beliefs and his reasonings, his memory and his consciousness."-Journal of the Society of Biblical Literature and Exegesis, 1882, p. 67.

  Compare to the "Heart" chakra (Anahata):

  The Anahata chakra is physically positioned at the heart region. Traditionally, this chakra is represented as a green flower with twelve petals which match the vrittis of lust, fraud, indecision, repentance, hope, anxiety, longing, impartiality, arrogance, incompetence, discrimination and defiance. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anahata

  Is the Biblical "heart" so figurative afterall, or actually representing an ancient belief of the chakra system?

  Q20, 21) (a) Stephen's case provides what evidence of tranquillity when experiencing persecution? (b) Cite a modern-day example of calmness when enduring trials.

  20) The disciple Stephen displayed tranquillity when enduring a severe test of his faith. Before he gave a final witness, all those in the Sanhedrin "saw that his face was as an angel's face." (Acts 6:15) His countenance was tranquil-like that of an angel, a messenger of God. After Stephen exposed their guilt in Jesus' death, the judges "felt cut to their hearts and began to gnash their teeth at him." "Full of holy spirit," Stephen "gazed into heaven and caught sight of God's glory and of Jesus standing at God's right hand." Strengthened by that vision, Stephen proved faithful to death. (Acts 7:52-60) Although we do not have visions, we can have God-given tranquillity when persecuted.

  Although we do not have visions...Another example of how JWs are removed from any experience of "spirituality."

  Picture on page 31: Heartfelt prayer helps us to endure tests of faith [Professional woman prays at desk while two other women smoke cigarettes in break room.]

  21) Consider the sentiments of certain Christians who suffered death at Nazi hands during World War II. Relating his experience in court, one said: "The death sentence was decreed. I listened, and then after I had spoken the words, `Be thou faithful unto death,' and a few other words of our Lord, it was all over.... But never mind that now. For I have such peace, such tranquillity, that you can't possibly imagine!" A young Christian facing death by beheading wrote his parents: "It is already past midnight. I still have time to change my mind. Ah! could I be happy again in this world after I had denied our Lord? Surely not! But now you have the assurance that I leave this world in happiness and peace." There is no doubt that Jehovah supports his loyal servants.

  Just a question, is the persecution of any people religious or otherwise any less valid or moving than the experiences above? JWs are not alone in the world. A 1997 report from Tibet about an ongoing problem:

  The repression of freedom of religion is outstanding in Tibet and throughout 1997 Chinese authorities intensified their brutal suppression of the Tibetan people's right to practise and express their religious beliefs. Under China's "Strike Hard"(1)1 campaign (or "Crack Down Severely on Crimes"), which has been implemented in Tibet since April 1996, Tibetan monks and nuns have been targeted for intensive "patriotic re-education" sessions. Strict controls within the monasteries and nunneries have resulted in 2,827 known expulsions, 165 arrests, nine deaths and 35 have left their monasteries and nunneries. Limits have been set on the number of monks and nuns permitted in each institution and a minimum age of 18 years has been imposed on those wishing to enter monasteries and nunneries. Source: http://www.tibet.com/Humanrights/HumanRights97/hr97-1.html

  You Can Endure!

  Q22, 23) Of what can you be sure as you await Jehovah's day with endurance?

  22) You may not face certain challenges we have considered. Yet, God-fearing Job was right when he said: "Man, born of woman, is short-lived and glutted with agitation." (Job 14:1) Perhaps you are a parent who is working hard to give your children spiritual guidance. They must endure trials at school, but how happy you are when they take a firm stand for Jehovah and his righteous principles! Possibly you are experiencing hardships and temptations in the workplace. These and other situations can be endured, however, because 'Jehovah daily carries the load for you.'-Psalm 68:19.

  how happy you are when they take a firm stand for Jehovah and his righteous principles!JW children are coached to make the statement to the effect, 'I personally believe that...' instead of, 'Because I'm a JW I don't...'

  My personal experience is that JW youth are brainwashed from day-one into a set of beliefs without any comparison for alternative options. To be fully submersed in JW doctrine all your childhood and then prodded to dedication and baptism long before the mental tools of adulthood engage is religious abuse. Of course other religions and cultures prime their youth as well, but the treat of social ostracism is rarely as systematic as in the JW world.

  23) You may think of yourself as just an average person, but bear in mind that Jehovah will never forget your work and the love you show for his holy name. (Hebrews 6:10) With his help, you can endure tests of faith. So keep the doing of God's will in your prayers and plans. Then you can be confident of divine blessing and support as you await Jehovah's day with endurance.

  Jehovah will never... hear your prayer directly. Even mediator Jesus is for the "anointed" only.

  As usual "Jehovah"=FDS. The FDS is the only feedback JWs get, even encouraging experiences are rationed out (double meaning there...) until any mysticism is gone. No personal spiritual experiences allowed, especially anything that may contradict the FDS. Official encouragement comes from the pages of the WTS publications such as this fine example.

  How Would You Respond?

  • Why do Christians need endurance?
  • What can help us to endure illness and bereavement?
  • How does prayer help us to endure trials?
  • Why is it possible to await Jehovah's day with endurance?

  CONCLUDING COMMENTS

  My heart trully goes out to the JWs who are in need of endurance. I see them all around me at the meetings. The "life" and enthusiam is gone at the Halls I have attended recently. The social scene among JWs is very secular, and rarely involves Biblical topics. Even after the meetings JWs are prone to discuss weather, traffic, friendly gossip--anything but what the meeting was actually about.

  Field service is a abstract ritual. 2 hours of door-to-door work will net 5 mintues of actual interaction with householders, most is rejection at that. The ministry is now focusing on the 'busy-ness' of tract campaigns, a transparent attempt to excite the JW members, instead of effective recruiting.

  JW Prayer is a formulaic process, you know what I mean. Each elder has his version of the "Lord's Prayer," the same phrases, the same subjects, the gall to repeat the highlights of the meeting as if God needs a review. Personal prayers often refect the same model. Where is the sincerity, the collective emotion of the congregation, the plea and thanksgiving that prayer can be?

  Meetings, service, prayer: the trinity of JW spiritual healing. The essential JW fallacy: Go to meetings to learn about...going to meetings. The emporer wears no clothes--pass it on.

  JWs who wise up to the machine have been slipping away under cloaks of vague illness and depression, while in actuality they are simply beginning to live their lives. Depression and phobias stalls the elders and their shepherding calls quite well though.

  This all paints a shambling posture for the WTS as it literally bores people out of the organization. Of course that's encouraging in its own way...

  Why Do People Leave Cults?
  People leave cults for a variety of reasons. After becoming aware of hypocrisy and/or corruption within the cult, converts who have maintained an element of independence and some connection with their old values may simply walk out disillusioned. Other members may leave because they have become weary of a routine of proselytizing and fund-raising. Sometimes even the most dedicated members may feel so inadequate in the face of the cult's demands that they walk away, not because they have stopped believing, but because they feel like abject failures. Still others may renounce the cult after reconnecting to old values, goals, interests, or relationships, resulting from visits with parents, talks with ex-members, or counseling. Source: http://www.csj.org/studyindex/studycult/cultqa6.htm
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  13

  Comments You Won't Hear at the 9/2/07 WT Study (WALKING BY SPIRIT)

  by WT Comments in

  1. watchtower
  2. bible

  comments you won't hear at the 9/2/07 wt study (walking by spirit).

  (wt 7/15/07 pages 21-25).

  review comments will be in red.

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  WT Comments

  Comments You Won't Hear at the 9/2/07 WT Study (WALKING BY SPIRIT)
  (WT 7/15/07 pages 21-25)
  
  Review comments will be in red
  WT material from the study WT will be in black
  Quotes from other sources will be in black italics
  AW = Awake! magazine
  GB = Governing Body, small group of men that control JW doctrine
  KH = Kingdom Hall, JW meeting place
  JW = Jehovah's Witnesses
  WT = Watchtower magazine
  WTS = "Watchtower Society", the organization directing JWs worldwide
  
  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
  
  OPENING COMMENTS
  
  WT "owns" qualities, redefines for productivity...
  
  What does spiritual mean? Of, relating to, consisting of, or having the nature of spirit; not tangible or material.
  
  How "spiritual" are JWs you know? JWs are a religion of works; non-tangible experiences are called "spiritism".
  
  Both the words "spiritual" (more than 10 hours of service a month) and "spiritistic" (related to demons) are redefined in the WTS. Did you know that words are synonymous?
  
  As a JW, probably not.
  
  Watch out for the logical fallacies, here they come!WILL YOU "KEEP WALKING BY SPIRIT"?
  
  "Keep walking by spirit and you will carry out no fleshly desire at all. "-GALATIANS 5:16.
  
  Q1) How can anxiety about sinning against the spirit be dispelled?
  1) There is a way to dispel anxiety about sinning against Jehovah's holy spirit. It is by doing what the apostle Paul said: "Keep walking by spirit and you will carry out no fleshly desire at all." (Galatians 5:16) If we let God's spirit guide us, we will not be overcome by improper fleshly desires.-Romans 8:2-10.
  
  Q2, 3) If we keep walking by spirit, how will we be affected?
  2) As we "keep walking by spirit," God's active force will motivate us to obey Jehovah. We will display godly qualities in our ministry, in the congregation, at home, and elsewhere. The spirit's fruitage will be evident in our dealings with our marriage mate, our children, our fellow believers, and others.
  
  3) Living "as to the spirit from the standpoint of God" enables us to desist from sin. (1 Peter 4:1-6) If we are under the spirit's influence, we will certainly not commit an unforgivable sin. But in what other fine ways will we be affected if we keep on walking by spirit?
  
  We begin a study on the "fruitages of the spirit" with anxiety and unforgivable sin. Fear comes first, just like all public talk outlines.
  
  First three paragraphs are a recap of last weeks lesson, is the FDS afraid that someone missed last week's study?
  Remain Close to God and Christ
  Q4, 5) How does walking by spirit affect our view of Jesus?
  
  4) Because we walk by holy spirit, we are able to maintain a close relationship with God and his Son. Writing about spiritual gifts, Paul told fellow believers in Corinth: "I would have you [former idolaters] know that nobody when speaking by God's spirit says: 'Jesus is accursed!' and nobody can say: `Jesus is Lord!' except by holy spirit." (1 Corinthians 12:1-3) Any spirit that moves people to pronounce a curse upon Jesus must originate with Satan the Devil. As Christians walking by holy spirit, though, we are convinced that Jehovah raised Jesus from the dead and made him higher than all other creation. (Philippians 2:5-11) We have faith in Christ's ransom sacrifice and accept Jesus as the Lord appointed over us by God.
  
  Any spirit that moves people to pronounce a curse upon Jesus must originate with Satan the Devil...Logical Fallacy: Non-Support, False Dilemma
  As Christians walking by holy spirit, though, we are convinced that...Logical Fallacy: Composition

  ...nobody can say: `Jesus is Lord!' except by holy spirit...
  
  Funny, I hear this from every other Christian group except JWs.
  
  How many times have WTS publications used this phrase without quoting the scripture? NONE is the last 50 years. Last use was in 1954:

  WT 1954 1/1 p. 18 par. 21 Keeping a Clean Organization of Talkers
  Jesus' faithful followers have testified and will confess, or talk to others to the effect that Jesus is Lord "to the glory of God the Father."

  In fact Jesus is curiously diminished in most WT articles. Say "Jesus is Lord!" at your WT study and see how people react...
  
  5) Certain professed Christians of the first century C.E. denied that Jesus came in the flesh. (2 John 7-11) Accepting that false viewpoint caused some to repudiate the true teachings about Jesus, the Messiah. (Mark 1: 9-11; John 1:1,14) Walking by holy spirit prevents us from succumbing to such apostasy. But only by remaining spiritually vigilant can we continue to enjoy Jehovah's undeserved kindness and "go on walking in the truth." (3 John 3, 4) Let us therefore be determined to reject all apostasy so that we can maintain a strong relationship with our heavenly Father.
  
  WT Logic: Some rejected Christ in first century = walking by HS stops apostasy = reject ALL apostasy to have relationship with God.
  Translation: Do not question WTS if you want to God to hear your prayers.
  ...spiritually vigilant... study only JW publications and ignore negative news about WTS organization.
  Q6) What qualities does God's spirit produce in those walking by spirit?
  
  6) Paul listed apostate idolatry and sects among such "works of the flesh" as fornication and loose conduct. But he explained: "Those who belong to Christ Jesus impaled the flesh together with its passions and desires. If we are living by spirit, let us go on walking orderly also by spirit." (Galatians 5:19-21, 24, 25) What qualities does God's active force produce in those who live and walk by spirit? "The fruitage of the spirit," wrote Paul, "is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control." (Galatians 5:22, 23) Let us consider these aspects of the spirit's fruitage.
  
  Let us consider these aspects of the spirit's fruitage...in light of the recent child abuse settlements by the WTS.
  
  "Be Loving One Another"
  
  Q7) What is love, and what are some of its characteristics?
  
  7) Love--one aspect of the spirit's fruitage--often involves strong affection and unselfish concern for others, coupled with warm attachment to them. The Scriptures say that "God is love" because he is the very epitome of that quality. The great love of God and his Son for mankind is exemplified in the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (1 John 4:8; John 3:16; 15:13; Romans 5:8) As Jesus' followers, we are identified by the love we have for one another. (John 13:34, 35) In fact, we are commanded to "be loving one another." (1 John 3:23) And Paul says that love is long-suffering and kind. It is not jealous, and it does not brag, behave indecently, or look for its own interests. Love does not become provoked or keep account of the injury. It rejoices with the truth, not over unrighteousness. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. Moreover, it never fails.-1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
  
  As Jesus' followers, we are identified by the love we have for one another...SET UP that love applies to fellow worshippers primarily

  "God is love" because he is the very epitome of that quality...Conditional love according to JWs. Discuss amongst yourselves...

  IT-2 p. 278 Love: Love is held back only from those whom Jehovah shows are unworthy of it

  Q8) Why should we show love for fellow worshippers of Jehovah?
  
  8) If we allow God's spirit to produce love within us, that quality will exist in our relationships with God and neighbor. (Matthew 22:37-39) "He who does not love remains in death," wrote the apostle John. "Everyone who hates his brother is a manslayer, and you know that no manslayer has everlasting life remaining in him." (1 John 3:14, 15) A manslayer could find safety in an Israelite city of refuge only if he did not hate the one slain. (Deuteronomy 19:4, 11-13) If we are led by holy spirit, we will show love for God, fellow worshippers, and others.
  
  ...love for God, fellow worshippers, and others...There is your hierarchy of affection, with 'others' getting the love of recruiting.
  How was love shown for the victims of JW sexual abuse in the courtroom? Hush money does not count as love. Has love for JW children moved the WTS to change their disclosure and reporting procedures? Has love reversed the disfellowshippings of those who blew the whistle on the WTS?
  "The Joy of Jehovah Is Your Stronghold"
  
  Q9, 10) What is joy, and what are some reasons to be joyful?
  
  9) Joy is a state of great happiness. Jehovah is "the happy God." (1 Timothy 1:11; Psalm 104:31) The Son delights to do his Father's will. (Psalm 40:8; Hebrews 10:7-9) And "the joy of Jehovah is [our] stronghold."-Nehemiah 8:10.
  
  10) God-given joy brings us deep satisfaction when we do the divine will even in times of hardship, sorrow, or persecution. What happiness "the very knowledge of God" brings us! (Proverbs 2:1-5) Our joyous relationship with God is based on accurate knowledge and faith in him and in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. (1 John 2:1, 2) Being part of the only true international brotherhood is another source of joy. (Zephaniah 3:9; Haggai 2:7) Our Kingdom hope and the grand privilege of declaring the good news make us joyful. (Matthew 6:9, 10; 24:14) So does the prospect of everlasting life. (John 17:3) Since we have such a grand hope, we should be "nothing but joyful."-Deuteronomy 16:15.
  
  ENTIRE PARAGRAPH Logical Fallacy: Appeal to Emotion

  Are you, were you joyous as a JW?
  Our joyous relationship with God...twice removed: Jesus channels to FDS who mediates to great crowd. Is God just a rumor to JWs?
  
  Being part of the only true international brotherhood...can you name another international organization? Don't trip over "only true" and man-centric "brotherhood" while you are at it.
  ...we should be "nothing but joyful."...keyword "should". So many JWs are crutching on anti-depressants and finding "spiritual paradise" in the bottom of a bottle. Should JWs have attendants holding signs "BE JOYFUL"? Maybe that would help.
  Another cause for joy?

  The Times 8-23-2007
  A leading Jehovah's Witness who was branded an "evil monster" by his own sister was spared prison today, despite being convicted of 24 counts of indecent assault and gross indecency on children - one of which was committed on an 18-month-old baby.
  
  Mr Porter's current Jehovah's Witness Church has stood by him despite confessing to his crimes, according to his sister. He is thought to be an elder at the Mill Hill Kingdom Hall, in Barnet, north London. Full story

  Be Peaceable and Long-Suffering
  
  Q11, 12) (a) How would you define peace? (b) What effect does godly peace have on us?
  
  11) Peace--another aspect of the spirit's fruitage--is a state of tranquillity and freedom from disturbance. Our heavenly Father is the God of peace, and we are given the assurance: "Jehovah himself will bless his people with peace." (Psalm 29:11; 1 Corinthians 14:33) Jesus told his disciples: "I leave you peace, I give you my peace." (John 14:27) How would that help his followers?
  
  12) The peace that Jesus gave his disciples calmed their hearts and minds and allayed their fears. Especially did they have peace when they received the promised holy spirit. (John 14:26) Under the spirit's influence and in answer to our prayers today, we enjoy the incomparable "peace of God," which puts our heart and mind at rest. (Philippians 4: 6, 7) Moreover, Jehovah's spirit helps us to be calm and peaceable with fellow believers and others.-Romans 12:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:13.
  
  I wonder if families victimized by JW pedophiles can learn from Jackie?

  WT 2000 6/1 p. 30 Where Can You Turn for Good Advice?
  
  Jackie, after learning of the sexual abuse of her daughter, acknowledges: "The feeling of guilt at being powerless to protect one's child is beyond words. I have had to fight feelings of bitterness, resentment, and anger. These feelings were beginning to poison my life. I desperately needed Jehovah to guard my heart." After reading and rereading Philippians 4:6, 7, she worked hard to apply its counsel. "I pray every day, repeatedly asking that I not let myself be destroyed by negative feelings, and Jehovah has helped me to develop a calm and happy heart. I truly feel peace within myself," Jackie relates.

  Q13, 14) What is long-suffering, and why should we display it?
  13) Long-suffering is related to peaceableness, for it is our patient endurance of provocation or wrong in hopes of improvement in the situation. God is long-suffering. (Romans 9:22-24) Jesus also manifests this quality. We can be recipients of it, for Paul wrote: "The reason why I was shown mercy was that by means of me as the foremost case Christ Jesus might demonstrate all his long-suffering for a sample of those who are going to rest their faith on him for everlasting life."-1 Timothy 1:16.
  
  And if the victims suffer long enough, could the pedophile return to authority? Only if few know. What a pedophile paradise:

  WTS Letter to Elders 7/20/1998:
  "Those who are appointed to privileges of service, such as elders and ministerial servants, are put in a position of trust. ...legal considerations must also be weighed along with the degree of notoriety, the extent of the misconduct, how many years ago the sin occurred, and how the brother is now viewed by the congregation and people in the community including those he victimized."

  14) The quality of long-suffering helps us to endure when others say or do unkind or thoughtless things. Paul urged fellow Christians: "Be long-suffering toward all." (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Since all of us are imperfect and make mistakes, surely we want people to be patient with us, to be long-suffering when we err in our dealings with them. Let us therefore make it a point to "be long-suffering with joy."-Colossians 1:9-12.
  
  We want people to be patient with us, to be long-suffering when we err in our dealings with them...Is this a personal plea from the FDS? What will it take for there to be a public apology?
  Picture on page 23: Jehovah's holy spirit promotes love for our fellow believers (Two JW men greet each other at a KH building project)
  
  Display Kindness and Goodness
  Q15) Define kindness, and cite examples of it.
  
  15) Kindness is displayed when we show interest in others by means of friendly and helpful words and acts. Jehovah is kind, and so is his Son. (Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 10:1) Kindness is expected of servants of God and Christ. (Micah 6:8; Colossians 3:12) Even some lacking a personal relationship with God have shown "extraordinary human kindness." (Acts 27:3; 28:2) Surely, then, we can display kindness if we "keep walking by spirit."
  
  Even some lacking a personal relationship with God have shown "extraordinary human kindness." Translation: Non-JWs can be good people...shocking.
  Q16) What are some circumstances that should move us to show kindness?
  16) Kindness can be shown even if we have justifiably become angry because of someone's hurtful words or inconsiderate actions. "Be wrathful, and yet do not sin," said Paul. "Let the sun not set with you in a provoked state, neither allow place for the Devil.... Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you." (Ephesians 4:26, 27, 32) It is especially fitting to display kindness toward those experiencing trials. Of course, a Christian elder would not be showing kindness if he failed to give Scriptural counsel just to avoid hurting the feelings of someone clearly in danger of abandoning the course of "goodness and righteousness and truth."-Ephesians 5:9.
  
  It is especially fitting to display kindness toward those experiencing trials... Oh the irony, its killing me.

  A woman who won $5,000 in damages after accusing the Canadian wing of the Jehovah's Witnesses of negligence over their handling of sexual abuse has been ordered to pay the group $142,000 to cover its legal costs. (Referring to Vicki Boer, source)

  Q17, 18) How is goodness defined, and what role should this quality play in our life?
  17) Goodness is virtue, moral excellence, or the quality or state of being good. God is good in the absolute sense. (Psalm 25:8; Zechariah 9:17) Jesus is virtuous and has the quality of moral excellence. Yet, he would not accept "Good" as a title when he was called "Good Teacher." (Mark 10:17, 18) This was evidently because he recognized God as the pinnacle of goodness.
  
  18) Our ability to do good is hindered because of inherited sin. (Romans 5:12) Nevertheless, we can display this quality if we pray that God `teach us goodness.' (Psalm 119:66) Paul told fellow believers in Rome: "I myself also am persuaded about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are also full of goodness, as you have been filled with all knowledge." (Romans 15:14) A Christian overseer must be "a lover of goodness." (Titus 1:7, 8) If we are led by God's spirit, we will become known for goodness, and Jehovah will `remember us for the good we do.'-Nehemiah 5:19; 13:31.
  
  If we are led by God's spirit, we will become known for goodness...Are JWs known for the good they do outside their group? Disaster relief is almost completely for JWs only, with recruiting is the "goodness" reserved for non-JWs.

  When Hurricane Andrew devastated a Florida, U.S.A., community in 1992, Jehovah's Witnesses quickly organized themselves to deal with the situation. "About 3,000 Witness volunteers from across the country have converged on the disaster area, first to help their own, then to help others" Source

  Picture on page 24: Show kindness through helpful words and deeds (Father carrying tool box, mother and young daughter carrying gift bags, greeted by elderly woman at her door.)
  
  "Faith Without Hypocrisy"
  Q19) Define faith, in keeping with Hebrews 11:1.
  
  19) Faith--also part of the spirit's fruitage--"is the assured expectation of things hoped for, the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld." (Hebrews 11:1) If we have faith, we are certain that everything Jehovah promises is as good as done. The convincing evidence of unseen realities is so strong that faith is said to be equivalent to that evidence. For instance, the existence of created things convinces us that there is a Creator. That is the kind of faith we will display if we keep walking by spirit.
  
  The convincing evidence of unseen realities is so strong that faith is said to be equivalent to that evidence.Logical Fallicy: Were do I start? Circular Reasoning, Post Hoc, Reification

  For instance, the existence of CREATED things convinces us that there is a Creator.My brain is really hurting here.Logical Fallicy: Circular Reasoning

  Q20) What is "the sin that easily entangles us," and how can we avoid it and the works of the flesh?
  20) Lack of faith is "the sin that easily entangles us." (Hebrews 12:1) We need to rely on God's spirit in order to avoid works of the flesh, materialism, and false teachings that can destroy faith. (Colossians 2:8; 1 Timothy 6:9, 10; 2 Timothy 4:3-5) God's spirit produces in Jehovah's present-day servants faith like that of pre-Christian witnesses and others of Bible record. (Hebrews 11:2-40) And our own "faith without hypocrisy" may well bolster the faith of others.-1 Timothy 1:5; Hebrews 13:7.
  
  "faith without hypocrisy"...

  AW 1997 4/8 p. 15 Sexual Exploitation of Children--A Worldwide Problem
  God will cleanse the earth and usher in a completely new and just system of things, "new heavens and a new earth." (2 Peter 3:13) Then, in that new world of his making, corrupt, perverted people will never again take advantage of innocent ones. And never again will the innocent have to fear being victimized, for "there will be no one making them tremble."-Micah 4:4.

  Exhibit Mildness and Self-Control
  Q21, 22) How is mildness defined, and why should we display it?
  21) Mildness is gentleness in temperament and behavior. One of God's attributes is mildness of temper. We know this because Jesus, who was a mild-tempered man, perfectly reflected Jehovah's personality. (Matthew 11:28-30; John 1:18; 5:19) What, then, is required of us as God's servants?
  
  One of God's attributes is mildness of temper.Logical Fallacy: Half-Truth.
  What happens to a bunch of Levites who accidentally see the ark return from Philistines who, by the bye, are still suffering from a case of devine hemorrhoids?

  (1 Samuel 6:19) And he went striking down the men of Beth-she'mesh, because they had looked upon the ark of Jehovah. So he struck down among the people seventy men--fifty thousand men--and the people began mourning because Jehovah had struck down the people with a great slaughter.

  Good times...
  
  22) As Christians, we are expected to `exhibit mildness toward all men.' (Titus 3:2) We display mildness in our ministry. Those with spiritual qualifications are counseled to readjust an erring Christian "in a spirit of mildness." (Galatians 6:1) All of us can contribute to Christian unity and peace by displaying "lowliness of mind and mildness." (Ephesians 4:1-3) We can exhibit mildness if we consistently walk by spirit and exercise self-control.
  
  23) Self-control enables us to keep our thoughts, speech, and actions in check. Jehovah "kept exercising self-control" in dealing with the Babylonian desolaters of Jerusalem. (Isaiah 42:14) His Son `left us a model' by exercising self-control during his sufferings. And the apostle Peter counseled fellow Christians to `supply to their knowledge self-control.'-1 Peter 2:21-23; 2 Peter 1:5-8.
  
  Did you know 'mildness' is part if the rationale for holding star-chamber style "judicial committee"?

  The Courier-Journal/July 27, 2002
  Bill Bowen of Benton, Ky., says he will file an appeal Monday of a decision by three church elders to ''disfellowship'' him on charges of ''causing divisions.'' Bowen said he was notified Thursday of the action after the elders met without him the previous evening. If the excommunication is upheld by a separate three-elder appeals panel, Bowen would become the fourth person expelled this year from the church after criticizing policies on child molesters. The church denies such criticisms.
  
  Jeff Steen, one of the elders who Bowen says decided to disfellowship him, would not confirm or deny the elders' action, saying church discipline is conducted confidentially in ''a spirt of mildness, not confrontation.''Source

  Q23, 24) What is self-control, and how does it help us?
  
  24) Christian elders are expected to be self-controlled. (Titus 1:7, 8) Actually, all who are led by holy spirit can exercise self-control and can thus avoid immorality, vulgar speech, or anything else that could result in Jehovah's disapproval. If we allow God's spirit to produce self-control within us, this will be apparent to others because of our godly speech and conduct.
  
  If we allow God's spirit to produce self-control within us, this will be apparent to others:
  JW molesters in the news (if known to have had a postion of authority it is noted)

  • Michael Porter RELEASED, Ministerial Servant at Mill Hill (the home congregation of the UK branch)
  • Timothy Gardener RELEASED, Ministerial Servant in Richmond, Missouri
  • Vance Salmon TO BE RELEASED 2008, Parry Sound, Ontario
  • Frederick "Rick" McLean FUGITIVE Ministerial Servant in Southern California
  • Henry William Hauch RELEASED ON BAIL 2007 Elder in Titusville, Florida
  • Eunice Spry PRISON Gloucestershire
  • Cary Verse RECOMMITTED to mental hospital after violating terms of release, California
  • Marcel Simonin Elder in Chateauguay, Canada
  • Enrique Bahena Robles Elder Cancun, Mexico
  • Jesus Cano Bethel Elder Photo:

  
  
  The WTS could save us all a lot of time by sharing the rest of this list with us. But they won't--it's secret.

  WTS Letter to Elders (London Branch 06/01/2001)Those who have confessed to child molestation, or who have been found guilty of child molestation by the congregation on the basis of two or more credible witnesses, should appear on the Child Protection List. (For a definition of child molestation see paragraph 3 of our letter To All Bodies of Elders dated April 15, 1997.) Also, those who have been convicted by a court of crimes that constitute child abuse should be included on the List. If necessary, additional information may be kept in a sealed envelope in the congregation's confidential file as described below. Source

  Go On Walking by Spirit
  
  Q25, 26) How will walking by spirit affect our present relationships and our future prospects?
  25) If we walk by spirit, we will be zealous Kingdom proclaimers. (Acts 18:24-26) We will be pleasant associates, and especially will people of godly devotion delight in our company. As those who are guided by holy spirit, we will also be sources of spiritual encouragement to fellow worshippers of Jehovah. (Philippians 2:1-4) Is that not what all Christians want to be?
  
  If we walk by spirit, we will be zealous Kingdom proclaimers...Summary of agenda. Literally: spiritual=is actually the physical results of recruiting
  26) In this world under Satan's control, it is not easy to walk by spirit. (1 John 5:19) Nevertheless, millions are doing so today. If we trust in Jehovah with all our heart, we will enjoy life now and will be able to keep on walking forever in the righteous ways of the loving Provider of holy spirit.-Psalm 128:1; Proverbs 3:5, 6.
  
  ...and there's your moldy carrot, folks. Flipside? If you don't--you're dead.
  
  What Is Your Reply?

  • How does "walking by spirit" affect our relationship with God and his Son?
  • The fruitage of the holy spirit consists of what qualities?
  • What are some ways to display the fruitage of God's spirit?
  • How does walking by spirit affect our present life and our future prospects?

  CONCLUDING COMMENTS
  
  Do the facts show that the WTS exhibit the fruits of the spirit, especially in light of official policies on child abusers?
  
  Do individual JWs even know what spirituality is? Has the WTS stripped the concept of any direct connection to God, instead shackling their members to the physical world of production and behavior?
  
  Who really can complain about a pleasant article extolling positive qualities? When the plagiarized words comes from a whitewashed grave, I can.
• 
  17

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the 8-26-07 WT Study (SIN-HOLY SPIRIT)

  by WT Comments in

  1. watchtower
  2. bible

  "every sort of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men," said jesus christ, "but the blasphemy against the spirit will not be forgiven.

  " (1 john 5:16) but is it left to the one who has sinned seriously to determine whether he has committed "a sin that does incur death"?.

  (psalm 51:11) however, if we are deeply grieved over a sin we have committed, it is very likely that we are truly repentant.

  1. 
  2. 
  3. 
• 

  WT Comments

  Comments You Will Not Hear at the August 26, 2007 WT Study
  July 15, 2007, pages 16-20 (SIN-HOLY SPIRIT)

  Printer friendly version in PDF format here.
  http://www.bestsharing.com/files/13ghJ325561/WT_20070826pdf.pdf.html

  Review comments will be in red
  WT material from the study WT will be in black
  Quotes from other sources will be in black italics
  GB = Governing Body, small group of men that control JW doctrine
  KH = Kingdom Hall, JW meeting place
  JW = Jehovah’s Witnesses
  WT = Watchtower
  WTS = “Watchtower Society”, the organization directing JWs worldwide

  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

  HAVE YOU SINNED AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT?

  "There is a sin that does incur death."-1 JOHN 5:16.

  Opening Comments

  How many poor JWs have you known that did not feel they had been forgiven for their sins? How many have had "restrictions" placed upon them by the elders for at least a year. Were David, Peter, Manasseh put on a year of "restrictions"?

  Q1, 2) How do we know that it is possible to sin against God's holy spirit?

  1) I have been obsessed with the thought that I have sinned against the holy spirit." So wrote a woman in Germany, although she was serving God. Can a Christian actually sin against God's holy spirit, or active force?

  obsessed...why....because they are treated as pariahs that have to prove themselves to other JWs at the KH. Individual JWs are even allowed to continue to avoid those "reinstated" as "bad association" indefinitely on a personal whim. Is it God's forgiveness they do not see, or humans'?

  2) Yes, it is possible to sin against Jehovah's holy spirit. "Every sort of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men," said Jesus Christ, "but the blasphemy against the spirit will not be forgiven." (Matthew 12:31) We are warned: "If we practice sin willfully after having received the accurate knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins left, but there is a certain fearful expectation of judgment." (Hebrews 10:26, 27) And the apostle John wrote: "There is a sin that does incur death." (1 John 5:16) But is it left to the one who has sinned seriously to determine whether he has committed "a sin that does incur death"?

  Is the sinner allowed to determine if he himself is repentant? No, because every JW judges others without mercy. Have you heard individual JWs bring up the past sins of other JWs, 20 years after the fact. Has forgiveness taken place?

  Repentance Brings Forgiveness

  Q3) What is likely true if we are deeply grieved over a sin we have committed?

  3) Jehovah is the final judge of wrongdoers. Indeed, all of us must render an account to him, and he always does what is right. (Genesis 18:25; Romans 14:12) Jehovah determines whether we have committed an unforgivable sin, and he can withdraw his spirit from us. (Psalm 51:11) However, if we are deeply grieved over a sin we have committed, it is very likely that we are truly repentant. What, though, is genuine repentance?

  Jehovah is the finalJudge...Jehovah determines--where's Jesus? Isn't he a judge of his followers?

  deeply grieved = repentantbut who determines, Jehovah, Jesus, the elders?

  Q4) (a) How would you define repentance? (b) What is so comforting about Psalm 103:10-14?

  4 To repent means that we change our attitude toward past or intended wrongdoing. It means that we feel sorrow or regret and turn away from a sinful course. If we have sinned seriously but have taken the necessary steps to show that we have really repented, we can draw comfort from the psalmist's words: "He [Jehovah] has not done to us even according to our sins; nor according to our errors has he brought upon us what we deserve. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, his loving-kindness is superior toward those fearing him. As far off as the sunrise is from the sunset, so far off from us he has put our transgressions. As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those fearing him. For he himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust."-Psalm 103:10-14.

  change our attitude...feel sorrow or regret and turn away

  Yes, God remembers we are dust; do the elders, do they mete out "punishment" fairly? A pedophile in our area was reinstated after 8 months while an adulterous wife was made to wait 8 YEARS to be reinstated. Where is the love in that?

  Q5, 6) Give the substance of 1 John 3:19-22, and explain the meaning of the apostle's words.

  5) Comforting, too, are the apostle John's words: "By this we shall know that we originate with the truth, and we shall assure our hearts before him as regards whatever our hearts may condemn us in, because God is greater than our hearts and knows all things. Beloved ones, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have freeness of speech toward God; and whatever we ask we receive from him, because we are observing his commandments and are doing the things that are pleasing in his eyes."-1 John 3:19-22.

  God is greater than our hearts and knows all things

  Do the elders know all things, yet they have the lives and futures of the rank and file in their hands?

  6) We "know that we originate with the truth" by the fact that we display brotherly love and do not make a practice of sinning. (Psalm 119:11) If we feel condemned for some reason, we do well to remember that "God is greater than our hearts and knows all things." Jehovah shows us mercy because he is aware of our "unhypocritical brotherly affection," our battle against sin, and our efforts to do his will. (1 Peter 1:22) Our heart will "not condemn us" if we trust in Jehovah, display brotherly love, and are not guilty of practicing deliberate sin. We will have "freeness of speech toward God" in prayer, and he will answer us because we observe his commandments.

  practice of sinning...practicing deliberate sin

  In whose judgment, God's or humans?

  "willfully inactive" is a new term applied to some JWs that no longer attend meetings or turn in time.

  Picture on page 17: Those who said that Jesus performed miracles with Satan's power sinned against God's holy spirit

  They Sinned Against the Spirit

  Q7) What determines whether a sin is forgivable or not?

  7) What sins are not forgiven? To answer this question, let us consider some Biblical examples. This should prove comforting to us if we are repentant but are still sorely distressed over our serious errors. We will see that it is not so much a matter of what kind of sin a person has committed; rather, it is the motive, the heart condition, and the degree of willfulness involved that determines whether a sin is forgivable or not.

  What sins are not forgiven...not so much a matter of what kind of sin a person has committed; rather, it is the motive, the heart conditon.

  Can elders read hearts? The WTS at least concedes that only God and Jesus can do that. But how do the elders know what God and Jesus think if they cannot read human hearts?

  Q8) How did some first-century Jewish religious leaders sin against the holy spirit?

  8) First-century Jewish religious leaders who maliciously opposed Jesus Christ were sinning against the holy spirit. They saw God's spirit at work in Jesus as he performed miracles that honored Jehovah. Yet, these enemies of Christ attributed this power to Satan the Devil. According to Jesus, those who thus blasphemed against God's holy spirit were thereby committing a sin that would not be forgiven in the present "system of things nor in that to come."-Matthew 12:22-32.

  First-century Jewish religious leaders who maliciously opposed Jesus

  Jesus = anointed = 144,000 = GB

  Is opposing the GB the same as opposing Jesus? How did Jesus treat the religious leaders of his day, as having God's blessing; he say what the did not what they said, do as they do not as they say, he warned.

  'Attributed as not being from God'...what has the GB done that proves they have holy spirit....ten years associated with the UN as a nongovernmental organization, spiritual harlots.

  United Nations Scandalhttp://www.randytv.com/secret/unitednations.htm

  Q9) What is blasphemy, and what did Jesus say about it?

  9) Blasphemy is defamatory, injurious, or abusive speech. Since the holy spirit has God as its Source, saying things against his spirit is the same as speaking against Jehovah. Unrepentantly resorting to speech of that kind is unforgivable. The incident leading to Jesus' words about such sin shows that Jesus is referring to those who willfully oppose the operation of God's holy spirit. Because the Pharisees saw Jehovah's spirit at work in Jesus but ascribed this power to the Devil, they sinfully blasphemed against the spirit. Hence, Jesus declared: "Whoever blasphemes against the holy spirit has no forgiveness forever, but is guilty of everlasting sin."-Mark 3:20-29.

  Blasphemy...against spirit= blasphemy against God (against the GB?????)

  willfully oppose

  The WTS teaches that the only they have holy spirit from God; everything and everyone else is from Satan.

  Q10) Why did Jesus call Judas "the son of destruction"?

  10) Consider also the case of Judas Iscariot. He pursued a dishonest course, stealing from the money box entrusted to his care. (John 12:5, 6) Judas later went to the Jewish rulers and arranged to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Yes, Judas felt remorse after the betrayal, but he never repented of his deliberate sin. Consequently, Judas is not worthy of a resurrection. Jesus therefore called him "the son of destruction."-John 17:12; Matthew 26:14-16.

  Judas Iscariot...never repented of his DELIBERATE sin....not worthy of a resurrection.

  Who also is deemed unworthy:

  • Adam and Eve
  • Cain
  • People who died in the Flood
  • People who died at Sodom and Gomorrah (flip flop doctrine)
  • People who died in Israel when Babylonians took Jerusalem??? A judgment period (a good research topic)
  • Religious leaders of Jesus time who were unrepentant
  • Jews who died at the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE
  • All non-JWs who die at Armageddon, all 6.5 billion, including babies

  Picture on page 18: Although he denied Jesus, Peter did not commit an unforgivable sin

  They Did Not Sin Against the Spirit

  Q11-13) How did King David sin in connection with Bath-sheba, and what comfort may be drawn from the way God dealt with them?

  11) Occasionally, Christians who have confessed their serious sin and who have received spiritual help from congregation elders may still be plagued by concern over past transgressions of God's law. (James 5: 14) If we are personally troubled in this way, very likely we will benefit from considering what the Scriptures say about those whose sins were forgiven.

  12) King David sinned gravely in connection with Bath-sheba, the wife of Uriah. Having seen this beautiful woman bathing as he looked down from his nearby rooftop, David had her brought to his palace and had sexual relations with her. Later informed that she was pregnant, he schemed to have her husband, Uriah, sleep with her to cover up the adultery. When that plot failed, the king arranged for Uriah to be killed in battle. Thereafter, Bath-sheba became David's wife and bore him a child who died.-2 Samuel 11: 1-27.

  13) Jehovah handled matters involving David and Bath-sheba. God forgave David, apparently taking into account such factors as his repentance and the Kingdom covenant made with him. (2 Samuel 7:11-16; 12:7-14) Bath-sheba evidently had a repentant attitude, for she was privileged to become the mother of King Solomon and an ancestress of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:1, 6, 16) If we have sinned, it is good to remember that Jehovah takes note of our repentant attitude.

  Christians--only JWs

  Received spiritual help...still be plagued...personally troubled

  Do JWs show a spirit of forgiveness to sinners or do they show fear of contamination?

  King David...sinned gravely...schemed--adulterer and murderer, capital crimes that all others would have been executed for under the Law.

  Factors such as the Kingdom covenant--sounds like the pedophile that was reinstated in 8 months because the material future of 3 elders hung in the balance.

  Did David come forward to confess his sin on his own? Why did David's first son by Bathsheba die but David and Bathsheba live?

  Who determines in the JW congregation who is repentant? the elders who cannot read hearts or minds.

  Q14) How is the extent of God's forgiveness illustrated in King Manasseh's case?

  14) The extent of Jehovah's forgiveness is also illustrated in the case of King Manasseh of Judah. He did what was bad in Jehovah's eyes. Manasseh set up altars to Baal, worshipped "all the army of the heavens," and even built altars to false gods in two temple courtyards. He made his sons pass through the fire, encouraged spiritistic practices, and caused the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem "to do worse than the nations that Jehovah had annihilated from before the sons of Israel." The warnings delivered by God's prophets were not heeded. Eventually, the king of Assyria took Manasseh captive. While in captivity, Manasseh repented and humbly kept praying to God, who forgave him and restored him to the kingship in Jerusalem, where he promoted true worship. -2 Chronicles 33:2-17.

  Manasseh...made his sons pass through the fire

  Only when taken captive by the cruel Assyrians did Manasseh repent........how sincere was that....what about the lives he took? He too committed capital crimes but was not executed...did this same forgiveness extend to the rank and file of his time?

  Q15) What incident in the apostle Peter's life shows that Jehovah forgives "in a large way"?

  15) Centuries later, the apostle Peter sinned grievously by denying Jesus. (Mark 14:30, 66-72) However, Jehovah forgave Peter "in a large way." (Isaiah 55:7) Why? Because Peter was genuinely repentant. (Luke 22:62) There was clear evidence of God's forgiveness 50 days later when on the day of Pentecost, Peter was privileged to give a bold witness about Jesus. (Acts 2:14-36) Is there any reason to believe that God would be less forgiving toward truly repentant Christians today? "If errors were what you watch, O Jah, O Jehovah, who could stand?" sang the psalmist, "for there is the true forgiveness with you." -Psalm 130:3, 4.

  Peter...denying Jesus...genuinely repentant--50 days, not a year of restrictions, and Peter was giving a public talk at a convention.

  Christians--only JWs

  Allaying Fear About Sin

  Q16) Under what circumstances does God grant forgiveness?

  16) The foregoing examples should help to allay our anxiety about having sinned against the holy spirit. They show that Jehovah does forgive repentant sinners. Of prime importance is earnest prayer to God. If we have sinned, we can plead for forgiveness on the basis of Jesus' ransom sacrifice, Jehovah's mercy, our inherited imperfection, and our record of faithful service. Knowing Jehovah's undeserved kindness, we can seek forgiveness, confident that it will be granted. -Ephesians 1:7.

  Jehovah does forgive...but do the elders and the rank and file at your congregation?

  record of faithful service--measured by hours turned in each month?!?

  Q17) What should be done if we have sinned and need spiritual help?

  17) What if we have sinned but are unable to pray because our sin has made us spiritually sick? In this regard, the disciple James wrote: "Let [such a person] call the older men of the congregation to him, and let them pray over him, greasing him with oil in the name of Jehovah. And the prayer of faith will make the indisposed one well, and Jehovah will raise him up. Also, if he has committed sins, it will be forgiven him." James 5:14, 15.

  Unable to pray...call the older men

  When was the last time an elder gave a sincere prayer for you?

  Q18) Why is a person's sin not necessarily unforgivable even if he is expelled from the congregation?

  18) Even if a wrongdoer is at the time unrepentant and he is expelled from the congregation, his sin is not necessarily unforgivable. Concerning a disfellowshipped anointed wrongdoer in Corinth, Paul wrote: "This rebuke given by the majority is sufficient for such a man, so that, on the contrary now, you should kindly forgive and comfort him, that somehow such a man may not be swallowed up by his being overly sad." (2 Corinthians 2:6-8; 1 Corinthians 5:1-5) To be restored spiritually, however, erring ones need to accept the Bible-based spiritual help of Christian elders and give evidence of true repentance. They must "produce fruits that befit repentance."-Luke 3:8.

  Unrepentant...expelled...sin not necessarily unforgivable

  Only months after this man's rebuke, Paul was saying to comfort him...not after a year of restrictions.

  Spiritual restoration is only possible through the elders not the ransom sacrifice of Christ.

  Q19) What can help us to remain "healthy in faith"?

  19) What might contribute to the feeling that we have sinned against the holy spirit? Overconscientiousness or a weak physical condition may be factors. In such a case, prayer and added rest may be helpful. Especially should we not let Satan discourage us, so that we stop serving God. Since Jehovah has no pleasure in the death of the wicked, he surely takes no delight in the loss of any of his servants. So if we fear that we have sinned against the spirit, we should continue feeding on God's Word, including such comforting portions as the Psalms. We need to keep on attending congregation meetings and sharing in the Kingdom-preaching work. Doing so will help us to be "healthy in faith" and free from anxiety over the possibility of having committed the unforgivable sin.-Titus 2:2.

  Cause for feeling sinned against holy spirit--overconscientiousness...(from the DO MORE attitude in the organization)...added rest may be helpful.

  A mental condition caused by something the individual did not what others have cruelly done, judging them bad association even after repenting. Some comfort!

  meetings...preaching.....the solution for all JW problems.

  Q20) What reasoning may help a person to see that he has not sinned against the holy spirit?

  20) Any who fear that they have sinned against the holy spirit might ask themselves: `Have I blasphemed against the holy spirit? Since I repented of my sin, have I now changed my mind about such repentance? Do I have faith in God's forgiveness? Am I an apostate who has rejected spiritual light?' Very likely, such individuals will realize that they have not blasphemed against God's holy spirit, nor have they become apostates. They are repentant, and they have abiding faith in Jehovah's forgiveness. If so, they have not sinned against Jehovah's holy spirit.

  Am I an apostate who has rejected spiritual light?

  I wonder how many JWs are asking themselves that question this Sunday???????

  Are people with doubts or questions automatically labeled as "apostates" in your congregation and avoided?

  Q21) The next article will deal with what questions?

  21) What a blessing it is to be certain that we have not sinned against the holy spirit! Related to this matter, however, are questions to be considered in the next article. For instance, we might ask ourselves: `Am I really being led by God's holy spirit? Is its fruitage evident in my life?'

  What Is Your Reply?

  • Why can we say that it is possible to sin against the holy spirit?
  • What does it mean to repent?
  • Who sinned against the spirit when Jesus was on earth?
  • How can anxiety about having committed an unforgivable sin be overcome?

  Concluding Comments

  The WTS is laying the foundation for avoiding JWs that appear weak, have doubts and troubles, to avoid them as bad association, something to catch a spiritual illness from. Let the elders help them; while I spend time with the people I really like.

  Love, Blondie