LUKEWARM
JoinedPosts by LUKEWARM
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
cont....
"It matters not particularly that Dec. 25 is not the anniversary of our Lord's birth, according to the Scriptural account; that really He was born about September 25, nine months later. One day, as well as another, will serve us to commemorate our Savior's birth in the flesh, as a gift of God's love to a condemned and dying world."(Zion's WT, Dec. 15, 1908-pg.379).So the point is not about “ancient pagan festivals”, or that it was not the actual birth date of Jesus but when the Scriptures are silent on a matter, then it should be left up to an individual's conscience to decide - something the WTS denies its membership.
7 During their celebrations, pagans exchanged gifts and feasted—practices that Christmas preserved. As is also true today, however, much Christmas giving was not in the spirit of 2 Corinthians 9:7, which reads: “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” True Christians give out of love, their giving is not tied to a date, and they expect no gifts in return. (Luke 14:12-14; Acts 20:35) Moreover, they deeply appreciate being set free from the Christmas frenzy and relieved of the heavy yoke of financial debt that many incur at that time of year.—Matthew 11:28-30; John 8:32.
What if one was to celebrate December 25 as God's gift of his son without focusing on the commercial aspect?
Why does the WTS impose its conscience on others?
Q8. Did the astrologers present birthday gifts to Jesus? Explain.
8 But, some may argue, did not the astrologers present birthday gifts to Jesus? No. Their gift-giving was simply a way of paying their respects to a person of note, a common custom in Bible times. (1 Kings 10:1, 2, 10, 13; Matthew 2:2, 11) In fact, they did not even come on the night that Jesus was born. Jesus was, not a babe in a manger, but many months old and living in a house when they arrived.
&a
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
Q6, 7. (a) The roots of many Christmas customs can be found where? (b) What contrast can be seen between Christmas giving and Christian giving?
6 The roots of Christmas are found, not in Scripture, but in ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia, a celebration dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture. Likewise, according to their reckoning, devotees of the god Mithra celebrated December 25 as the “birthday of the invincible sun,” says the New Catholic Encyclopedia. “Christmas originated at a time when the cult of the sun was particularly strong at Rome,” about three centuries after the death of Christ.
Not very long ago (*** g03 9/22 pp. 23-24 *** ) the Awake talked about the origins of The Piñata and that it stemmed from sun worship. But it went on to say “A main concern is, not what the practice meant hundreds of years ago, but how it is viewed today in your area.”
So, not only is the WTS reasoning on this celebration inconsistently embarrassing, but it also denies its members the freedom of choice - a contrast to the reasonableness that Russell displayed - here are some quotes:
"Christmas Day, in celebration of our dear Redeemer's birth, has for centuries been celebrated on Dec. 25; and although it is now well known that this date is in error...nevertheless, since the Lord has given no instructions whatever upon this subject, and since it is proper to do good deeds and think good thoughts upon any day, it cannot be improper, ...for us to remember in a social way our dear Redeemer's birth at this time."(Zion's WT, Dec. 15, 1898-pg.370).
"..we may properly enough join with all whose hearts are in the attitude of love and appreciation toward God and toward the Saviour." (Zion's WT, Dec 15, 1903)
"Even though Christmas is not the real anniversary of our Lord's birth...it is not necessary for us to quibble particularly about the date. We may as well join with the civilized world in celebrating the grand event on the day which the majority celebrate "Christmas day.""(Zion’s WT, Dec. 1,
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
*** lv chap. 13 pp. 144-159 Celebrations That Displease God ***
CHRISTMAS-SUN WORSHIP RENAMED
Q5. Why can we be certain that Jesus was not born on December 25?
5 The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus. In fact, his exact birth date is unknown. We can be sure, though, that he was not born on December 25 in the cold of winter in that part of the world. For one thing, Luke recorded that when Jesus was born, "shepherds [were] living out of doors" minding their flocks. (Luke 2:8-11) If "living out of doors" had been their habit year round, that would not have been noteworthy. However, because Bethlehem is subject to cold rains and snow, flocks were wintered under cover and shepherds would not have been "living out of doors." Additionally, Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem because Caesar Augustus had ordered a census. (Luke 2:1-7) It is highly unlikely that Caesar would have commanded a people who were resentful of Roman rule to travel to their ancestral cities in the dead of winter.How can they say "The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus" when Luke 2:6 says the angels celebrated Christ's birth?
[Footnote]
Based on Biblical reckoning and secular history, Jesus was likely born in 2 B.C.E. in the Jewish month of Ethanim, which corresponds to September/October on our present calendar.-See Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 2, pages 56-7, published by Jehovah's Witnesses.Could a Christian celebrate 25 December as the conception of Jesus? Notice Russel's view on the matter:
"...we could not be certain that the exact day might not be in September about the 27th, but October 1st, B.C. is about correct. Nine months back of that date would bring us to about Christmas time, 3 B.C., as the date at which our Lord laid aside the glory which he had with the Father before the world was made and the taking of or changing to human nature began. It seems probable that this was the origin of the celebration of December 25th as Christmas Day. Some writers on Church history claim, even, that Christmas Day was originally celebrated as the date of the annunciation by Gabriel to the virgin Mary." (The Time is at Hand, Vol. 2 of The Studies in the Scriptures, p61)
Q6, 7. (a) The roots of many Christmas customs can be found where? (b) What contrast can be seen between Christmas giving and Christian giving?
6 The roots of Christmas are found, not in Scripture, but in ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia, a celebration dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture. Likewise, according to their reckoning, devotees of the god Mithra celebrated December 25 as the "birthday of the invincible sun," says the New Catholic Encyclopedia. "Christmas originated at a time when the cult of the sun was particularly strong at Rome," about three centuries after the death of Christ.Not very long ago (*** g03 9/22 pp. 23-24 *** ) the Awake talked about the origins of The Piñata and that it stemmed from sun worship. But it went on to say "A main concern is, not what the practice meant hundreds of years ago, but how it is viewed today in your area."
So, not only is the WTS reasoning on this celebration inconsistently embarrassing, but it also denies its members the freedom of choice - a contrast to the reasonableness that Russell displayed - here are some quotes:
"Christmas Day, in celebration of our dear Redeemer's birth, has for centuries been celebrated on Dec. 25; and although it is now well known that this date is in error...nevertheless, since the lord has given no instructions whatever upon this subject, and since it is proper to do good deeds and think good though
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
TAKE 3
*** lv chap. 13 pp. 144-159 Celebrations That Displease God ***CHRISTMAS—SUN WORSHIP RENAMED
Q5. Why can we be certain that Jesus was not born on December 25?
5 The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus. In fact, his exact birth date is unknown. We can be sure, though, that he was not born on December 25 in the cold of winter in that part of the world. For one thing, Luke recorded that when Jesus was born, “shepherds [were] living out of doors” minding their flocks. (Luke 2:8-11) If “living out of doors” had been their habit year round, that would not have been noteworthy. However, because Bethlehem is subject to cold rains and snow, flocks were wintered under cover and shepherds would not have been “living out of doors.” Additionally, Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem because Caesar Augustus had ordered a census. (Luke 2:1-7) It is highly unlikely that Caesar would have commanded a people who were resentful of Roman rule to travel to their ancestral cities in the dead of winter.
How can they say “The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus” when Luke 2:6 says the angels celebrated Christ's birth?
[Footnote]
Based on Biblical reckoning and secular history, Jesus was likely born in 2 B.C.E. in the Jewish month of Ethanim, which corresponds to September/October on our present calendar.—See Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 2, pages 56-7, published by Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Could a Christian celebrate 25 December as the conception of Jesus? Notice Russel’s view on the matter:
"...we could not be certain
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16
Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
TAKE 2
*** lv chap. 13 pp. 144-159 Celebrations That Displease God ***
CHRISTMAS-SUN WORSHIP RENAMED
Q5. Why can we be certain that Jesus was not born on December 25?5 The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus. In fact, his exact birth date is unknown. We can be sure, though, that he was not born on December 25 in the cold of winter in that part of the world. For one thing, Luke recorded that when Jesus was born, "shepherds [were] living out of doors" minding their flocks. (Luke 2:8-11) If "living out of doors" had been their habit year round, that would not have been noteworthy. However, because Bethlehem is subject to cold rains and snow, flocks were wintered under cover and shepherds would not have been "living out of doors." Additionally, Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem because Caesar Augustus had ordered a census. (Luke 2:1-7) It is highly unlikely that Caesar would have commanded a people who were resentful of Roman rule to travel to their ancestral cities in the dead of winter.
How can they say "The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus" when Luke 2:6 says the angels celebrated Christ's birth?
[Footnote]
Based on Biblical reckoning and secular history, Jesus was likely born in 2 B.C.E. in the Jewish month of Ethanim, which corresponds to September/October on our present calendar.-See Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 2, pages 56-7, published by Jehovah's Witnesses.
Could a Christian celebrate 25 December as the conception of Jesus? Notice Russel's view on the matter:
"...we could not be certain that the exact day might not be in September about the 27th, but October 1st, B.C. is about correct. Nine months back of that date would bring us to about Christmas time, 3 B.C., as the date at which our Lord laid aside the glory which he had with the Father before the world was made and the taking of or changing to human nature began. It seems probable that this was the origin of the celebration of December 25th as Christmas Day. Some writers on Church history claim, even, that Christmas Day was originally celebrated as the date of the annunciation by Gabriel to the virgin Mary." (The Time is at Hand, Vol. 2 of The Studies in the Scriptures, p61)
Q6, 7. (a) The roots of many Christmas customs can be found where? (b) What contrast can be seen between Christmas giving and Christian giving?6 The roots of Christmas are found, not in Scripture, but in ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia, a celebration dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture. Likewise, according to their reckoning, devotees of the god Mithra celebrated December 25 as the "birthday of the invincible sun," says the New Catholic Encyclopedia. "Christmas originated at a time when the cult of the sun was particularly strong at Rome," about three centuries after the death of Christ.
Not very long ago (*** g03 9/22 pp. 23-24 *** ) the Awake talked about the origins of The Piñata and that it stemmed from sun worship. But it went on to say "A main concern is, not what the practice meant hundreds of years ago, but how it is viewed today in your area."
So, not only is the WTS reasoning on this celebration inconsistently embarrassing, but it also denies its members the freedom of choice - a contrast to the reasonableness that Russell displayed - here are some quotes:
"Christmas Day, in celebration of our dear Redeemer's birth, has for centuries been celebrated on Dec. 25; and although it is now well known that this date is in error...nevertheless, since the Lord has given no instructions whatever u -
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Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 30 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
*** lv chap. 13 pp. 144-159 Celebrations That Displease God ***
CHRISTMAS-SUN WORSHIP RENAMED
Q5. Why can we be certain that Jesus was not born on December 25?5 The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus. In fact, his exact birth date is unknown. We can be sure, though, that he was not born on December 25 in the cold of winter in that part of the world. For one thing, Luke recorded that when Jesus was born, "shepherds [were] living out of doors" minding their flocks. (Luke 2:8-11) If "living out of doors" had been their habit year round, that would not have been noteworthy. However, because Bethlehem is subject to cold rains and snow, flocks were wintered under cover and shepherds would not have been "living out of doors." Additionally, Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem because Caesar Augustus had ordered a census. (Luke 2:1-7) It is highly unlikely that Caesar would have commanded a people who were resentful of Roman rule to travel to their ancestral cities in the dead of winter.
How can they say "The Bible makes no mention of a birthday celebration for Jesus" when Luke 2:6 says the angels celebrated Christ's birth?
[Footnote]
Based on Biblical reckoning and secular history, Jesus was likely born in 2 B.C.E. in the Jewish month of Ethanim, which corresponds to September/October on our present calendar.-See Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 2, pages 56-7, published by Jehovah's Witnesses.
Could a Christian celebrate 25 December as the conception of Jesus? Notice Russel's view on the matter:
"...we could not be certain that the exact day might not be in September about the 27th, but October 1st, B.C. is about correct. Nine months back of that date would bring us to about Christmas time, 3 B.C., as the date at which our Lord laid aside the glory which he had with the Father before the world was made and the taking of or changing to human nature began. It seems probable that this was the origin of the celebration of December 25th as Christmas Day. Some writers on Church history claim, even, that Christmas Day was originally celebrated as the date of the annunciation by Gabriel to the virgin Mary." (The Time is at Hand, Vol. 2 of The Studies in the Scriptures, p61)
Q6, 7. (a) The roots of many Christmas customs can be found where? (b) What contrast can be seen between Christmas giving and Christian giving?6 The roots of Christmas are found, not in Scripture, but in ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia, a celebration dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture. Likewise, according to their reckoning, devotees of the god Mithra celebrated December 25 as the "birthday of the invincible sun," says the New Catholic Encyclopedia. "Christmas originated at a time when the cult of the sun was particularly strong at Rome," about three centuries after the death of Christ.
Not very long ago (*** g03 9/22 pp. 23-24 *** ) the Awake talked about the origins of The Piñata and that it stemmed from sun worship. But it went on to say "A main concern is, not what the practice meant hundreds of years ago, but how it is viewed today in your area."
So, not only is the WTS reasoning on this celebration inconsistently embarrassing, but it also denies its members the freedom of choice - a contrast to the reasonableness that Russell displayed - here are some quotes:
"Christmas Day, in celebration of our dear Redeemer's birth, has for centuries been celebrated on Dec. 25; and although it is now well known that this date is in error...nevertheless, sinc -
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Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 23 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
13 pp.
144-159 celebrations that displease god ***.
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LUKEWARM
*** lv chap. 13 pp. 144-159 Celebrations That Displease God ***
"Keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord."-EPHESIANS 5:10.
Q1. What kind of people does Jehovah draw to himself, and why must they remain spiritually vigilant?"THE true worshipers," said Jesus, "will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him." (John 4:23) When Jehovah finds such individuals-as he found you-he draws them to himself and to his Son. (John 6:44) What an honor that is! Lovers of Bible truth, however, must "keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord," for Satan is a master of deception.-Ephesians 5:10; Revelation 12:9.
"Lovers of Bible truth, however, must "keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord" - yes only through the publications of the WTS, never questioning or investigating the alternative arguments!
Q2. Explain how Jehovah views those who try to fuse true religion with false.2 Consider what occurred near Mount Sinai when the Israelites asked Aaron to make them a god. Aaron acquiesced and made a golden calf but implied that it represented Jehovah. "There is a festival to Jehovah tomorrow," he said. Was Jehovah indifferent to this fusion of true religion and false? No. He had about three thousand idolaters put to death. (Exodus 32:1-6, 10, 28) The lesson? If we want to keep ourselves in God's love, we must "touch nothing unclean" and jealously guard the truth against any form of corruption.-Isaiah 52:11; Ezekiel 44:23; Galatians 5:9.
"...jealously guard the truth against any form of corruption."? How arrogant are there people? How many thousand JWs have died believing Watchtower "errors" according to present Watchtower "light"? Considering WTS doctrines and practices have been continually changing, how can one know for sure that tomorrows "truth" isn't today's "error"?
Q3, 4. Why should we pay close attention to Bible principles when examining popular customs and celebrations?3 Sadly, after the death of the apostles, who acted as a restraint against apostasy, so-called Christians who had no love of truth began to adopt pagan customs, celebrations, and "holy" days, which they dubbed Christian. (2 Thessalonians 2:7, 10) As you consider some of these celebrations, note how they reflect, not the spirit of God, but that of the world. Generally speaking, worldly celebrations have a common theme: They appeal to fleshly desires, and they promote false religious beliefs and spiritism-the hallmarks of "Babylon the Great." (Revelation 18:2-4, 23) Keep in mind, too, that Jehovah observed firsthand the disgusting pagan religious practices from which many popular customs originated. No doubt he finds such celebrations just as offensive today. Should not his view be what matters most to us?-2 John 6, 7.
[Footnote]
See the box "Should I Join in the Celebration?" on pages 148-9. A number of specific "holy" days and celebrations are listed in the Watch Tower Publications Index, published by Jehovah's Witnesses.
"...so-called Christians who had no love of truth began to adopt pagan customs, celebrations, and "holy" days". How embarrassing and hypocritical that the WTS does not condemn the following things of "pagan" origin:
1) Use of the names of days of the week and months of the year
2) Board games, like backgammon
3) Wedding rings
4) Wedding ring finger = superstition of vein in that finger leading to the heart
5) Bride carrying flowers = bride carrying herbs to ward off evil spirits
6) Wedding anniversaries
7) Bridal veil = veil protected marriage from bad luck so bad spirits couldn't enter the bride
8) Wedding kiss
9) Bridesmaids - meant to fool evil spirits when they came for the bride
10) Cutting of the wedding cake and feeding it to each other and saving the top layer for a year
11) Flower girl
12) Eye make-up - used to ward off evil spirits
13) Wind chimes - used to protect from evil spirits
14) The suit and tie
15) Shaving
16) Bread and wine = cakes and ale used for grounding energy after a pagan ceremony
17) red lip stick (allegedly invented to distinguish prostitutes from non-prostitutes)
18) Tombstones, coffins and "embalming" all have origins with Pagan cultures concerned with passing on to the afterlife
19) Dice - used by shamans and oracles as a fortune-telling device
"No doubt he finds such celebrations just as offensive today." Really? Are they adding to the Bible again? Who really are the "apostates", Christians who read the Bible and believe what it says or JWs who read the Watchtower publications giving the WTS interpretations of what the Bible says?
[Box/Picture on page 148, 149]
SHOULD I JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION?
Principle: "'Get out from among them, and separate yourselves,' says Jehovah, 'and quit touching the unclean thing'; 'and I will take you in.'"-2 Corinthians 6:17.
Some questions to ask yourself about a popular celebration or custom:
Does it clearly have roots in a false religious practice or teaching, including spiritism?-Isaiah 52:11; 1 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Revelation 18:4.
Does it give undue honor or adulation to a human, an organization, or a national symbol?-Jeremiah 17:5-7; Acts 10:25, 26; 1 John 5:21.
Does it elevate one nation or ethnic group over another?-Acts 10:34, 35; 17:26.
Does it reflect "the spirit of the world," which works in opposition to God's holy spirit?-1 Corinthians 2:12; Ephesians 2:2.
Could my participation in it be a cause for stumbling?-Romans 14:21.
If I choose not to participate, how would I respectfully explain my reasons to others?-Romans 12:1, 2; Colossians 4:6.
The following scriptures may shed further light on questions about popular observances:
"[Unfaithful Israelites] went mingling with the nations and took up learning their works."-Psalm 106:35.
"The person faithful in what is least is faithful also in much, and the person unrighteous in what is least is unrighteous also in much."-Luke 16:10.
"You are no part of the world."-John 15:19.
"You cannot be partaking of 'the table of Jehovah' and the table of demons."-1 Corinthians 10:21.
"The time that has passed by is sufficient for you to have worked out the will of the nations when you proceeded in deeds of loose conduct, lusts, excesses with wine, revelries, drinking matches, and illegal idolatries."-1 Peter 4:3.
4 As true Christians, we know that certain celebrations are not pleasing to Jehovah. But we need to be firmly determined in our heart to have absolutely nothing to do with them. A review of why Jehovah is displeased with such celebrations will strengthen our resolve to avoid anything that might hinder us from remaining in God's love.
How does the WTS know that "certain celebrations are not pleasing to Jehovah"? Where is the proof?
There are only two laws that Jesus left Christians with: Love God with a whole soul and your neighbour as yourself. That's it!
[Box on page 158, 159]
MAKING WISE DECISIONS
At times, situations may arise that test our love for Jehovah and our grasp of Bible principles. For example, a Christian's unbelieving marriage mate may invite him or her to have a meal with relatives on a worldly holiday. Some Christians may in good conscience accept; others may not. If a Christian does accept such an offer, his conduct should make it plain that he is not celebrating the holiday and that his visit is purely to enjoy a meal with relatives.
It would be prudent for a Christian to speak respectfully to his marriage mate in advance, explaining the embarrassment that might occur if the relatives share in holiday activities and the Witness declines. The unbelieving mate might decide to visit on another day.-1 Peter 3:15.
After hearing his wife's explanation, what if the husband of a Christian woman still insists that she accompany him? She might conclude that as head of the household, he has the responsibility to provide food for the family. (Colossians 3:18) In this case, the meal is at the home of his relatives. She may even be able to give a fine witness on that occasion. The food is not contaminated just because it is eaten on a worldly holiday. (1 Corinthians 8:8) The Christian might view it as a common meal and not join in any holiday greetings, songs, toasts, and so forth.
Another factor to be considered is the effect that sharing in such a meal might have on others. A Christian wife should take into account the possibility that others who learn of her visit with worldly relatives on that day might be stumbled.-1 Corinthians 8:9; 10:23, 24.
In addition, will the family pressure the Christian wife to compromise? The desire to avoid any embarrassment can exert a powerful influence! So it would be important to think the matter through in advance, taking all these factors into consideration, including, of course, her own Christian conscience.-Acts 24:16.
Should I Accept a Christmas Bonus?
During the Christmas season, a Christian's employer may offer a present or a bonus. Should the Christian reject such? Not necessarily. The employer may not even be thinking that by accepting the bonus the receiver is celebrating Christmas. The employer may simply be giving all his workers a share of the company's profits. Or the bonus may be evidence of his gratitude for services rendered all year long as well as a stimulus to continued good work. The employer may give a gift to all employees-Jews, Muslims, or others-regardless of whether they celebrate Christmas or not. So the mere timing of the gift or the name that may be associated with it does not necessarily rule out its acceptance by one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Even if the gift is given because of a religious holiday, that does not mean that the recipient is thought to share the religious view. A fellow worker or a relative may tell a Witness, "I know that you do not celebrate this holiday, but I still want you to have this as a gift from me." If the Christian's conscience would be at rest, he might choose to accept the gift and express thanks without any reference to the holiday. (Acts 23:1) Perhaps at a time when there will be less likelihood of causing offense, the Christian can tactfully explain his stand.
However, what if the one offering the gift has the clear intention of showing that the Christian is not firm in his beliefs or will compromise for material gain? Then it is definitely best to decline. To be sure, we want to render Jehovah God exclusive devotion.-Matthew 4:8-10. -
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Congregation "Bible Study" Comments - Week Commencing 16 November 2009
by LUKEWARM in*** lv chap.
12 pp.
what kind of speech "is good for building up"?.
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LUKEWARM
*** lv chap. 12 pp. 133-143 Speak What "Is Good for Building Up" ***
WORDS THAT ARE "GOOD FOR BUILDING UP"
Q15. What kind of speech "is good for building up"?15 How can we use the gift of speech as the Giver intended? Recall that God's Word urges us to speak "whatever saying is good for building up." (Ephesians 4:29) Jehovah is pleased when we speak words that build up, encourage, and strengthen others. It takes thought to speak such words. The Bible does not provide a set formula to follow; neither does it contain a list of approved types of "wholesome speech." (Titus 2:8) To utter words that are "good for building up," we do well to keep in mind three simple but important factors that characterize upbuilding speech: It is wholesome, it is true, and it is kind. With such factors in mind, let us consider a few specific examples of speech that builds up.-See the box "Is My Speech Upbuilding?" on page 140.
"...we speak words that build up, encourage, and strengthen others"..."...It is wholesome, it is true, and it is kind" - if only the WTS actually applied this to themselves then their record of promoting lies as truth would not have had such a devastating effect on others in this regard
[Box/Picture on page 140]
IS MY SPEECH UPBUILDING?
Principle: "Let your utterance be always with graciousness."-Colossians 4:6.
Some questions to ask yourself
? When was the last time I offered someone specific commendation?-1 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 2:1-3.
? Do I express my respect for others by saying please and thank you?-Genesis 13:14; John 11:41.
? In conversation, do I speak mainly about myself, or am I also interested in the thoughts and feelings of others?-Philippians 2:3, 4; James 1:19.
? Do I use what I know about others as a means to build them up or to tear them down?-Proverbs 15:1, 2.
? How do I feel about the use of profanity, and what does my view reveal about what is in my heart?-Luke 6:45; James 3:10, 11.
Q16, 17. (a) Why should we commend others? (b) What opportunities are there to commend others in the congregation? in the family?16 Sincere commendation. Both Jehovah and Jesus recognize the need to speak words of commendation and approval. (Matthew 3:17; 25:19-23; John 1:47) As Christians, we too do well to offer genuine commendation to others. Why? "A word at its right time is O how good!" says Proverbs 15:23. Just ask yourself: 'How do I feel when I receive heartfelt commendation? Does it not warm my heart and lift my spirits?' Indeed, a sincere word of commendation lets you know that someone notices you, that someone cares about you, and that what you did was well worth the effort involved. Such reassurance builds your confidence and motivates you to work even more diligently in the future. Since you appreciate it when you receive commendation, should you not, in turn, do your best to give commendation to others?-Matthew 7:12.
"...motivates you to work even more diligently in the future" - motivated to better themselves to improve the quality of their life or serve the interests of the WTS?
17 Train yourself to look for the good in others, and then give voice to the positive. In the congregation, you may hear a well-developed talk at a meeting, notice a young one who is reaching out for spiritual goals, or observe an older one who is faithful in attending meetings despite the limitations of advancing years. A sincere word of commendation may touch the hearts of such ones and strengthen them spiritually. In the family, husbands and wives need to hear words of warm commendation and appreciation from each other. (Proverbs 31:10, 28) Especially do children thrive on feeling noticed and appreciated. Commendation and approval are to a child what sunshine and water are to a plant. Parents, look for opportunities to commend your children for their praiseworthy qualities and efforts. Such commendation can build courage and confidence in your children and motivate them to try even harder to do what is right.
"...build courage and confidence in your children and motivate them to try even harder to do what is right". - With so many young ones leaving, no wonder they want parents to "especially" encourage children in the WTS way...
Q18, 19. Why should we do our best to comfort and console fellow believers, and how can we do so?18 Comfort and consolation. Jehovah deeply cares about "the lowly ones" and "the ones being crushed." (Isaiah 57:15) His Word urges us to "keep comforting one another" and to "speak consolingly to the depressed souls." (1 Thessalonians 5:11, 14) We can be sure that God notices and appreciates our efforts to comfort and console fellow believers whose hearts are weighed down with sadness.
"...fellow believers..." - Only JW's?
Where is their application of Jesus words to show love toward all?
19 What, though, can you say to build up a fellow Christian who is discouraged or depressed? Do not feel that you must fix the problem. In many cases, simple words are often the most helpful. Assure the downhearted person of your care and concern. Offer to pray aloud with the discouraged one; you can beseech Jehovah to help that one to know how much he or she is loved by others and by God. (James 5:14, 15) Reassure him that he is needed and valued as a member of the congregation. (1 Corinthians 12:12-26) Read an encouraging Bible verse to assure him that Jehovah truly cares about him as an individual. (Psalm 34:18; Matthew 10:29-31) Taking ample time to share a "good word" with the despondent one and speaking from your heart will no doubt help him to feel loved and appreciated.-Proverbs 12:25.
So basically the advice is, keep praying, attending congregation activities and read the Bibke....In other words, continue to do what we have always told you to do and do more of it!
Q20, 21. What factors make counsel effective?20 Effective counsel. As imperfect creatures, we all need to receive counsel from time to time. The Bible encourages us: "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, in order that you may become wise in your future." (Proverbs 19:20) Giving counsel to others is not limited to the elders. Parents counsel children. (Ephesians 6:4) Mature sisters may need to offer counsel to younger women. (Titus 2:3-5) Love for others moves us to want to give counsel that the recipient can accept without feeling crushed. What can help us to give such counsel? Consider three factors that make counsel more effective: the attitude and motive of the counselor, the basis for the counsel, and the manner in which it is given.
"imperfect creatures" makes humans sound like animals?
"...we all need to receive counsel from time to time..." - Numerous examples on this forum illustrate that the GB proudly refuses to receive or listen to counsel and yet they have the arrogance to point their finger at others?
21 Effective counsel starts with the counselor. Ask yourself, 'When is counsel easy for me to accept?' When you know that the one counseling you cares about you, is not speaking out of personal frustration, and has no ulterior motives, the counsel is easier to accept. So when you counsel others, should not the same things be true of your attitude and motive? Successful counsel is also based on God's Word. (2 Timothy 3:16) Whether directly quoting from the Bible or not, we should have a Scriptural basis for any counsel we give. Thus, elders are careful not to impose their own views on others; neither do they bend or twist the Scriptures, making it seem that the Bible supports some personal view. Counsel is also more effective if it is delivered in the right manner. Counsel that is salted with kindness is easier to accept and lets the one receiving it keep his dignity.-Colossians 4:6.
"Successful counsel is also based on God's Word" - so why do elders and other "spiritually mature" ones constantly replace the plain counsel of the Bible with references to the publications of the WTS - publications that continually go "beyond the things written"?
"...elders are careful not to impose their own views on others; neither do they bend or twist the Scriptures, making it seem that the Bible supports some personal view." - So they point the finger at elders but just like the Pharisees of Jesus time, they are personally responsible for perpetrating the twisting of scriptures to support their views - Hippocrates!!
Q22. What is your determination regarding the use of the gift of speech?22 To be sure, speech is a precious gift from God. Our love for Jehovah should move us to use, not misuse, this gift. Let us remember that the words we speak to others have power-the power to build up or to tear down. Let us, then, strive to use this gift as the Giver intended-"for building up." Our speech will thus be a blessing to those around us and will help us to remain in God's love.