Posts by NikL

9

Dateline: WOW

by Kenneson in

jw
friends

just finished watching dateline.

i was very much impressed.. it didn't make the watchtower look good at all.

i bet.

NikL

What got me was the closing words of Stone Phillips about how Bill and the others now face "expulsion" from the church

25

Who Told The First Lie: God or the Devil?

by Dutchie in

jw
friends

gen 2:17 - god says: eat from the tree of knowledge of good and bad and you will absolutely die!.

gen 3:5 - satan says: god knows that in the very day of your eating from it your eyes are bound to be opened and you are bound to be like god knowing good and bad.. .

so what happen?.

Hi Dutchie,
This has been something I have given thought to for years so I will add more fuel to the fire.
If you will note by reading the scriptures, it wasn't the eating from the tree of the knowlege of good and bad that caused Adam and Eve to die. It was the NOT eating of the tree of life which was in the garden while they were out "toiling" for their food.
One of the most interesting points of this whole story is that God is made to look scared of what man was capable of becoming...
Gen 3:22 And he said: Behold Adam is become as one of us, knowing good and evil: now therefore lest perhaps he put forth his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever.
Gen 3:23 And the Lord God sent him out of the paradise of pleasure, to till the earth from which he was taken.

5

Writen Review anyone?

by NikL in

jw
friends

" (isaiah 60:3) who are the 'kings' referred to here?

(isa.

13:19, 20;14:22, 23) [weekly bible reading; see ip_1 p.188 pars.

NikL

I got e mailed the written review. Doesn't the org frown on this?
Anyway, I used to love written review night because it meant no boring talks.
Thought you might like to look at what the dubs are beeing tested on this week...
THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

January 7 to April 22,, 2002Answer each of the following statements True or False

1.At Ecclesiastes 2:2, the point that Solomon makes is that laughter and rejoicing should be avoided. [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 9/15 p. 24 par. 5.]

*** w87 9/15 24 "Fear the True God and Keep His Commandments" ***÷Ecc. 2:2—Is it wrong to have a good time?

No, it is not. Laughter, or having a good time, may help take the mind off one’s problems temporarily, but the problems do not go away. So trying to find true happiness by merrymaking is "insanity"; it makes no sense. Similarly, "rejoicing" does not solve life’s problems. Merriment and pleasures are thus contrasted with the happiness that results from having Jehovah’s blessing upon one’s work.—2:24.

2. Far from being a book of pessimism, Ecclesiastes is studded with bright gems of divine wisdom and shows that calamitous occupations are those that ignore God. [si p. 114 par. 15]

si 114 Bible Book Number 21-Ecclesiastes WHY BENEFICIAL

15 Far from being a book of pessimism, Ecclesiastes is studded with bright gems of divine wisdom.

3.At Isaiah 1:7, the prophet refers to the desolation of Judah during Ahaz' reign. [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p. 17 par. 16.]

ip-1 p 17 par 16 Isaiah is employing a technique found elsewhere in the Bible-that of describing a future event as if it has already taken place, thus emphasizing the certainty of

a prophecy s fulfillment.-Compare Rev 11:15.

4."Standing before the throne and before the Lamb," as mentioned at Revelation 7:9, indicates a heavenly location. [rs 14. p.167 par. 5]

*** rs 167 Heaven ***The description of them as "standing before the throne and before the Lamb" indicates, not necessarily a location, but an approved condition. (Compare Revelation 6:17; Luke 21:36.) The expression "before the throne" (Greek, e·no'pi·on tou thro'nou; literally, "in sight of the throne") does not require that they be in heaven.

5.Generously `honoring Jehovah' with our resources_our time, talents, strength, and material possessions_results in rich spiritual blessings from Jehovah. (Prov. 3:9,10)

[w001/15 p 25 par. l]

"Honor Jehovah with your valuable things and with the firstfruits of all your produce," instructs the king. (Proverbs 3:9) To honor Jehovah means to show him high regard and to exalt him publicly by sharing in and supporting the public proclamation of his name. The valuable things with which we honor Jehovah are our time, our talents, our strength, and our material possessions. These must be the firstfruits—our very best. Should not the way we use our personal resources reflect our resolve to ‘keep on seeking first the kingdom and God’s righteousness’?—Matthew 6:33. "Then your stores of supply will be filled with plenty," assures Solomon, "and with new wine your own press vats will overflow." (Proverbs 3:10) While spiritual prosperity in itself does not lead to material prosperity, generously using our resources to honor Jehovah brings rich blessings.

6. The modern_day `strange deed and unusual work' foretold at Isaiah 28:21 refers to the destruction of the nations at Armageddon. [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p. 295 par. 16; p. 301 par. 28.]

28 How important it is to have faith and confidence in Jehovah and in his way of doing things! (Compare Psalm 146:3.) To most, the warning message we preach will sound childish. The prospective destruction of an organization, Christendom, that claims to serve God is a strange, an unusual, concept. But Jehovah will accomplish his ‘strange deed.’ Of that, there can be no doubt. Hence, through the last days of this system of things, God’s servants put full trust in his Kingdom and in his appointed King, Jesus Christ. They know that Jehovah’s saving acts—performed along with his ‘unusual work’ —will bring eternal blessings to all obedient mankind.

7As Matthew 24:38, 39 shows, indulgence in food and drink, along with other human activities, caused the people of Noah's day to be swept away by the Deluge.

[w00 2/15 p 6 par. 6]

Jesus Christ referred to a similar situation that would occur during "the conclusion of the system of things." He said: "As they were in those days before the flood, eating and drinking, men marrying and women being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark; and they took no note until the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be."—Matt 24:3, 38, 39. Notice that Jesus mentioned eating, drinking, and getting married. None of those things are in themselves wrong in Jehovah’s eyes. What was wrong then? The people of Noah’s day "took no note," leading a life centered around their regular routine. In a time of emergency, one cannot live a "normal" life.

8. Jehovah always grants the requests of his humble servants who unselfishly serve him. [w00 3/1 p. 4 par. 3] 3 Jehovah God indeed listens to the prayers of those who humbly seek to serve him. But this does not mean that he always grants their requests because God has a long-range view of matters. He knows better than we do what is in our best interests. More important, he always acts in harmony with his stated purpose as recorded in the Bible.

9. The "nations" referred to at Isaiah 60:3 are individual political nations that have been attracted to God_given light. [Weekly Bible reading; see w00 1/1 p.12 par. 4.] 4/8

4. This gathering work is alluded to in Isaiah's prophecy when it says: "Nations will certainly go to your light, and kings to the brightness of your shining forth." (Isaiah 60:3) Who are the 'kings' referred to here? The remaining ones of the 144,00 who, along with Jesus Christ, are joint heirs of the heavenly Kingdom and have taken the lead in the witness work~Romans 8:17; Revelation 12:17; 14:1) Today, the few thousand remaining ones of the anointed remnant are greatly outnumbered by the "nations, those with an earthly hope who come to Jehovah for instruction and invite others to do the same. -Isaiah 2:3. Rev. 7:9

10. Jehovah "sanctified" Jeremiah before he was born in that He fixed Jeremiah's eternal destiny. (Jer. 1:5) [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 4/1 p.10 par. 2.]

*** w88 4/1 10 Jeremiah-Unpopular Prophet of God's Judgments ***2 >From Jehovah’s conversation with young Jeremiah, it is clear that he was one of the few men for whose birth Jehovah assumed responsibility. And why did he take specific interest in Jeremiah from his conception onward? Because Jehovah had a special commission in mind for him. Thus, he could say: "Before you proceeded to come forth from the womb I sanctified you." (Jeremiah 1:5) Then he commanded the youth: "Do not say, ‘I am but a boy.’ But to all those to whom I shall send you, you should go; and everything that I shall command you, you should speak. Do not be afraid because of their faces, for ‘I am with you to deliver you,’

Answer the following questions:

11.At Ecclesiastes 11:1, what is meant by `sending out bread'? [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 9/15 p. 25 par. ll.]

*** w87 9/15 25 "Fear the True God and Keep His Commandments" ***÷Ecc. 11:1—What is meant by thus ‘sending out bread’?

Bread is the staff of life. To send it out on "waters" is to part with something valuable. Yet, "you will find it again," for in an unexpected way the generous one will be repaid.—Luke 6:38.

12.At Isaiah 6:8, whom does Jehovah include when he says "us"? [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 pp. 93_4 par. 13.]1 pp. 93_4 par. 13.]

But why does Jehovah ask, "Who will go for us?" By switching from the singular personal pronoun "I" to the plural pronoun "us," Jehovah now includes at least one other person with himself. Who? Was this not his only-begotten Son, who later became the man Jesus Christ? Indeed, it was this same Son to whom God said, "Let us make man in our image." (Genesis 1:26; Proverbs 8:30, 31) Yes, alongside Jehovah in the heavenly courts is his only begotten Son.—John 1:14.

13.In fulfillment of Isaiah 9:2, how did "a great light" shine in Galilee? [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p.126 par. 17.]see ip_1 p.126 par. 17.]

When Jesus the Messiah appeared, the eyes of many humble people were opened in a wondrous way. (John 1:9, 12) Jesus’ work while on earth and the blessings resulting from his sacrifice are aptly characterized in Isaiah’s prophesy as "a great light."—John 8:12.

14. What modern_day parallel can be drawn concerning Babylon's fall in 539 B.C.E. and her eventual total desolation? (Isa. 13:19, 20;14:22, 23) [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p.188 pars. 30_1]ip_1 p.188 pars. 30_1]

Since 1919 the message has sounded around the earth: "Babylon the Great has fallen!" (Revelation 14:8) When she was unable to hold God’s people in captivity, she experienced a fall. Soon she will be completely destroyed. 31 Hence, Jehovah’s final statement of this prophecy in the book of Isaiah applies not only to ancient Babylon but also to Babylon the Great: "I will rise up against them... And I will cut off from Babylon name and remnant and progeny and posterity... And I will make her a possession of porcupines and reedy pools of water, and I will sweep her with the broom of annihilation." (Isaiah 14:22, 23)

15.How has "the faithful and discreet slave" acted as the "lookout" described at Isaiah 21:6? (Matt. 24:45) [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 pp. 221_2 par. ll.]

11 Jehovah now speaks to the prophet. Isaiah reports: ‘This is what Jehovah has said to me: ‘Go, post a lookout that he may tell just what he sees."’ (Isaiah 21:6) These words introduce another important theme of this chapter—that of the lookout, or watchman. This is of interest to all true Christians today, for Jesus urged his followers to "keep on the watch." "The faithful and discreet slave" has never stopped telling what it sees regarding the nearness of God’s day of judgment and the dangers of this corrupt world. (Matthew 24:42, 45-47) What does Isaiah’s visionary watchman see? "He saw a war chariot with a span of steeds, a war chariot of asses, a war chariot of camels. And he paid strict attention, with much attentiveness." (Isaiah 21:7)

16. What wise advice for a young man seeking a marriage partner is found at Proverbs 31:10?

[w00 2/1 p. 31 par. l] 3/11

Mothers are rightfully concerned with the marriage prospects of their sons who are approaching adulthood. Lemuel’s mother next turns her attention to the qualities of an ideal wife. No doubt, a young man would benefit greatly by considering a woman’s perspective on this important matter.In ÞPr 31 Üverse 10, "a capable wife" is likened to rare and valuable corals, which in Bible times were obtained only with considerable effort. In a similar way, finding a capable wife requires effort. Rather than anxiously rushing into marriage, a young man would do well to take his time to be selective. Then, he would be more likely to value his precious find highly

17. At Isaiah 43:9, what challenge is issued to the gods of the nations? [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 2/1 p.16 par. 3.]

18. In what way are the feet of those who declare the good news of God's Kingdom "comely"? (Isa. 52:7) [Weekly Bible reading; see w97 4/15 p. 27 par. 6.] 3/25

*** w97 4/15 27 Do You Remember? ***

• In what way are ‘the feet of those who declare the good news’ of God’s Kingdom "comely"? (Isaiah 52:7)

It is the feet that ordinarily move a person as he goes out to preach to others. Such feet really represent the person. So to the many who hear and respond favorably to the good news of the Kingdom, such messengers’ feet are indeed a beautiful sight.—1/15, page 13.

19. What is it necessary for us to do in order to prevent our heart from deceiving us? (Jer.17:9)

[w00 3/1 p. 30 par. 4] 4/1Honesty and Godly Fear The prophet Jeremiah wrote that "the heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate. Who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17:9) This treachery manifests itself in various ways, such as when we make excuses for ourselves when we do wrong. It also appears when we rationalize away serious personality flaws. Honesty, however, will help us to gain the victory over a treacherous heart by assisting us to face the truth about ourselves so that we can improve. The psalmist displayed such honesty when he prayed: "Examine me, O Jehovah, and put me to the test; refine my kidneys and my heart." Clearly, the psalmist had prepared his heart to accept refining and testing by Jehovah, even though it may have meant acknowledging the existence of drosslike traits so that these could be overcome.—Psalm 17:3; 26:2.

20. What must those who `walk in Jehovah's way' do? (Jer. 7:23) [Weekly Bible reading; see w99 8/15 p. 29 par. 6.] 4/22*** w99 8/15 29 Do You Remember? ***

• What must those who ‘walk in Jehovah’s way’ do? (Jeremiah 7:23)Walking in Jehovah’s way demands loyalty—a determination to serve him alone. It demands trust—complete faith that Jehovah’s promises are reliable and will come true. Walking in Jehovah’s way demands obedience—following his laws without deviation and keeping his high standards. (Psalm 11:7)—5/15, page 14.Provide the words) or phrase needed to complete each of the following statements:

21 "The heart of the wise is at his right hand" in the sense that the "right hand" often denotes a

_______________________ ; thus, this indicates that his_______ motivates him to pursue a good, favorable course. (Eccl. 10:2; Matt. 25:33) [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 9/15 p. 25 par. 8.]

÷Ecc. 10:2—How is the heart at the right hand? The "right hand" often denotes a position of favor. (Matthew 25:33) So the fact that the heart of the wise person is "at his right hand" indicates that it motivates him to pursue a good, favorable course. But the stupid individual lacks good motive and acts foolishly and improperly. His heart’s being at his "left hand" indicates that he is motivated to follow a wrong path.

22.Among the beneficial lessons that are taught in the Song of Solomon are ____________, _____________________. And ______________ to godly principles. [si p.117 par. 16]

*** si 117 Bible Book Number 22-The Song of Solomon ***16 What lessons are taught in this song of love that the man of God might find beneficial today? Faithfulness, loyalty, and integrity to godly principles are clearly shown.

23.The despoiler of the cities of Judah, described at Isaiah 33:1, is __________, which would itself end up defeated in 632 B.C.E., leaving behind great spoil for the inhabitants of ______, who would `gather it like the cockroaches.' (Isa. 33:4) [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p. 343 par. 4; p. 345 par. 6.] 4." (Isaiah 33:1) Isaiah directly addresses the despoiler, Assyria.

6 "The spoil of you people [the Assyrians] will actually be gathered like the cockroaches when gathering in, like the onrush of locust swarms that is rushing against one." (Isaiah 33:4) Judah is familiar with devastating insect invasions. This time, though, it is Judah’s enemies that will be devastated. Assyria will suffer a humiliating defeat, and its soldiers will be forced to flee, leaving behind a great spoil for the inhabitants of Judah to collect! It is only fitting that Assyria, known for its cruelty, will experience being despoiled. —Isaiah 37:36.

24. A comparison of Isaiah 54:1 with Galatians 4:26, 27 reveals that the "barren woman" pictures _____________________"; and "the woman with a husbandly owner," the _____________________. . [Weekly Bible reading; see w95 8/1 p. ll par. 8.] *** w95 8/1 11 Jehovah-A God Who Teaches *** 8 When Israel rejected and killed His Son, Jesus Christ, God finally rejected her. So no longer was that Jewish nation a figurative wife to him, nor was he the Father and Teacher of her wayward sons. (Matthew 23:37, 38) However, Israel was only a typical, or symbolic, wife. The apostle Paul quoted Isaiah 54:1, which speaks of a "barren woman" who is different and distinct from "the woman with a husbandly owner," the nation of natural Israel. Paul reveals that anointed Christians are children of the "barren woman," whom he calls "Jerusalem above." This antitypical figurative woman consists of God’s heavenly organization of spirit creatures.—Galatians 4:26, 27.

25.When we meet with ridicule and rejection in our public ministry, we need to remember that such opposition is really directed, not against ______________________________, but against________________ , the Source of our message. (2 Cor. 4:1, 7) [w001/15 p. 21 par. 2]2/11

As Jehovah’s Witnesses, we may meet with ridicule and rejection in our public ministry. We need to remember that such opposition is really directed, not against us personally, but against Jehovah, the Source of our message

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:26. When writing about his vision of Jesus' heavenly glory, Paul refers to himself as one having been "born pre maturely," meaning that (he was newly spirit_begotten; he received an early appointment as apostle to the nations; it was as if he had been granted the honor of being born, or resurrected, to spirit life ahead of time). (1 Cor. 9:1;15:8) [w001/15 p. 29 par. 6] 2/25

Years later, when Paul’s apostleship was disputed, he defended his authority by referring to his experience on the road to Damascus. "Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?," he asked. And after mentioning the resurrected Jesus’ appearances to others, Saul (Paul) stated: "Last of all he appeared also to me as if to one born prematurely." (1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:8) It was as if Saul, by his vision of Jesus’ heavenly glory, had been granted the honor of being born, or resurrected, to spirit life ahead of time.

27. The title "Eternal Father" refers to the Messianic King's power and authority to give humans (spiritual vitality; immortal life in heaven; the prospect of eternal life on earth). (Isa. 9:6; John 11:25, 26) [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 p.131 par. 26.]

The title "Eternal Father" refers to the Messianic King’s power and authority to give humans the prospect of eternal life on earth. (John 11:25, 26)

28. In the modern fulfillment of Isaiah 66:7, the "male child" that was brought forth represents (Jesus Christ; the Messianic Kingdom; a new spiritual nation in 1919). [Weekly Bible reading; see w95 1/1 pp11 p3]*** w95 1/1 11 The Integrity-Keeping Nation ***The Nation Is Born 3 When was "the righteous nation" born? Its beginning was prophesied in the book of Isaiah. At Isaiah 66:7, 8, we read: "Before she [Zion] began to come into labor pains she gave birth. Before birth pangs could come to her, she even gave deliverance to a male child. . . . Zion has come into labor pains as well as given birth to her sons." Most unusually, Zion, God’s heavenly organization, was to bring forth "a male child" before she suffered labor pains. In 1914 the Messianic Kingdom was brought forth in the heavens. (Revelation 12:5) After that, the first world war engulfed more and more nations, and anointed Christians suffered severe distress and persecution. Finally, in the year 1919, the spiritual nation, the "male child," was brought forth on earth. Thus Zion ‘gave birth to her sons’—the anointed members of the new "righteous nation"—and these were organized for an ever-expanding witness work.—Matthew 24:3, 7, 8, 14; 1 Peter 2:9.

29.A careful reading of Matthew 10:28 helps us to see that fiery Gehenna (is a place of conscious torment; represents eternal destruction; denotes estrangement from God). [rs p.173 par. 3] 3-4

*** rs 173-4 Hell ***At Matthew 10:28, Jesus warned his hearers to "be in fear of him that can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna." What does it mean? Notice that there is no mention here of torment in the fires of Gehenna; rather, he says to ‘fear him that can destroy in Gehenna.’ By referring to the "soul" separately, Jesus here emphasizes that God can destroy all of a person’s life prospects; thus there is no hope of resurrection for him. So, the references to the ‘fiery Gehenna’ have the same meaning as ‘the lake of fire’ of Revelation 21:8, namely, destruction, "second death."

30. In the modern_day fulfillment, "the nation whose people have not obeyed the voice of Jehovah," spoken of at Jeremiah 7:28, refers to (Babylon the Great; Christendom; the seventh world power). [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 4/1 p. 18 par. 10.]*** w88 4/1 18 Christendom Exposed as the Promoter of False Worship ***No Delight in His Word or Name 10 There are other points of similarity between ancient Jerusalem and modern Christendom. Jeremiah stated: "Look! The very word of Jehovah has become to them a reproach, in which word they can take no delight." (Jeremiah 6:10) The clergy prefer to quote philosophers and scientists, rather than the Word of Jehovah. Many are ashamed of the Bible; they even ridicule it by means of their "higher criticism." They claim that it is myths and legends presented as good literature. (Jeremiah 7:28)

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

31. In its own time, the proper place in which each work of God fits into his purpose will be revealed. [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 9/15 p. 24 par. 8.]

*** w87 9/15 24 "Fear the True God and Keep His Commandments" ***

Ecc.÷ 3:11—How has God made everything "pretty in its time"? The word "pretty" also has the meaning of "good, proper, appropriate." In its own time, the proper place in which each work of God fits into his purpose will be revealed. God has made many things "pretty" for mankind. For example, he gave humans a perfect start in Eden. He foretold the coming of a redeeming Seed when man fell in sin. At the proper time, God sent the Seed. And, ‘prettiest’ of all, Jehovah made the Seed the King of His Kingdom.

32.The preaching of the good news to those spiritually dead provides an opportunity for them to repent. [rs p.163 par. 5] *** rs 163-4 Heaven ***What is the meaning of 1 Peter 4:6? "In fact, for this purpose the good news was declared also to the dead, that they might be judged as to the flesh from the standpoint of men but might live as to the spirit from the standpoint of God." (Were these "dead" the people who had died prior to the death of Christ? As already shown, the dead are not "the spirits in prison." Those spirits were disobedient angels. And preaching would not have benefited physically dead humans because, as Ecclesiastes 9:5 says, they "are conscious of nothing at all," and Psalm 146:4 adds that at death a person’s "thoughts do perish." But Ephesians 2:1-7, 17 does refer to persons who were spiritually dead and who came to life spiritually as a result of accepting the good news.)

33. Although setbacks in life are unavoidable, the godly individual does not give up in striving to do what is fine. [w00 2/1 p. 5 par. 1] An important part of perseverance is coping with the inevitable setbacks. Proverbs 24:16 states: "The righteous one may fall even seven times, and he will certainly get up." Rather than ‘folding up’ when encountering difficulty or failure, the persevering individual ‘gets up,’ ‘keeps on,’ and tries again.

34. God's word, or stated purpose, cannot be annulled or hindered from being fulfilled. [Weekly Bible reading; see ip_1 pp. 401_2 par. 10.] —10 The Israelites well know that grass does not last forever. During the dry season, the sun’s intense heat changes it from green to a parched brown. In some respects, man’s life is like grass—so temporary in nature. (Psalm 103:15, 16; James 1:10, 11) Isaiah contrasts the transitoriness of man’s life with the permanence of God’s "word," or stated purpose. Yes, "the word of our God" endures forever. When God speaks, nothing can annul his words or prevent them from being fulfilled. —Joshua 23:14. Isaiah 40:-8.35.The apostles of Jesus made good use of Isaiah's prophecy, applying it to the ministry. [si p.123 par. 37] *** si 123 Bible Book Number 23-Isaiah ***37 The apostles of Jesus Christ continued to make good use of Isaiah’s prophecy, applying it to the ministry. For example, in showing that preachers are needed in order to build faith, Paul quotes Isaiah in saying: "How comely are the feet of those who declare good news of good things!" (Rom. 10:15; Isa. 52:7; see also Romans 10:11, 16, 20, 21.) Peter too quotes Isaiah in showing the permanence of the good news: "For ‘all flesh is like grass, and all its glory is like a blossom of grass; the grass becomes withered, and the flower falls off, but the saying of Jehovah endures forever.’ Well, this is the ‘saying,’ this which has been declared to you as good news."—1 Pet. 1:24, 25; Isa. 40:6-8.

16

Yet ANOTHER JW Urban Legend

by NikL in

jw
friends

got this one today.... i got this from a sister in our hall, it show's when we have that gut feeling to go back to a door we were just at to follow that feeling!

i hope you enjoy it.

we enjoyed this experience and you will probably enjoy it as well.

NikL

Got this one today...
I got this from a sister in our hall, it show's when we have that gut feeling to go back to a door we were just at to follow that feeling! I hope you enjoy it.
We enjoyed this experience and you will probably enjoy it as well.
The Brewster's This is a personal experience that was given at our Public Talk on December 30,2001. It was so exceptional that I asked the speaker if I could have a copy so that I can share it with others.

So you guys are the others....

Patsy had the greatest respect for her mother who raised six children without much help from a alcoholic husband. Her mother wasn't satisfied with her religion so she began looking for the true one. Unfortunately, after looking at many different religions she came across one that wasn't true, but to her it sounded as if it were true. So she became a member and raised her children in this religion.

At age 41 the mother went to a doctor for a checkup. The doctor found cancer in her left breast that was, he said, the size of a pinhead and thus operable. If she had the surgery the doctor said she could probably expect to live another 30 or 40 years. Patsy's mother went to her minister to ask if it would be all right to have the surgery. He put a guilt trip on her, saying, "I can't tell you that you cannot have the operation, but it would show lack of faith for you to have it. You are being tested like Job and if you have faith then God will heal you and the whole church will be built up and all your family will come in the church."

So the mother never receive any medical treatment again. She lived another two years as the cancer took over her whole side and even grew out of her body. During that time the minister of her church would come over with other members of the church and pray for Patsy's mother to be healed.
The mother would be sure that she was fixing to be healed and for the moment she would feel better as she anticipated the cure. The minister continued to tell her that she would be healed so she never gave up hope.
Finally, she died an excruciatingly painful death without any pain medication.

At the graveside funeral, the daughter Patsy approached this minister and looked him in the eye and said "Why ? Why did my mother have to die a death like this ? She did everything you told her to do. So why" The minister looked back at her in the eye and said "Obviously your mother did not have enough faith." A that Patsy told him, "I will never serve a God as cruel as that !"

Now Patsy began a life designed to "get even with God." She began to do all the things that she had learned were wrong. She became a lead singer in a heavy metal rock band. Eventually she married and had children but didn't treat her family well. She was always telling them that they were dragging her down and keeping here from signing a singing contract to go to New York and become a famous singer.

Finally, her husband had enough of this and decided to give Patsy her freedom He was going to give her a divorce. Then Patsy began to realize that she truly loved her husband and didn't want to live without him. So she decided to commit suicide. Going over to the refrigerator she got the gun down off the top of it and walked over to the kitchen table to write her suicide note and kill herself before the children came home from school.

At the table she started thinking, "Religion got me into this mess, maybe religion can get me out of it. I know what I'll do. Since I know a lot of Bible verses from my mother's religion, I'll use the Bible to blast all these people! So she went and got her King James Bible and let it fall open and the first verse she read was Romans 12:17, "Recompense to no man evil for evil." She didn't like that verse so she closed the Bible up and let it fall open again this time to a scripture that said something like, "Return to me and I shall return to you." She didn't like that one either so she closed the Bible again and opened it to Isaiah 55:1-3 where Jehovah invites thirsty ones to come to him.

Now Patsy decided to come to God in prayer. However, when she prayed she wanted to be sure that no other god would hear her prayer so she said:
"I'm praying to the God of Abraham , Isaac and Jacob. If you still have a people left on earth that are really serving you, could you have them call on me in the next 30 minutes."

Before 30 minutes went by, two of Jehovah's Witnesses knocked at her door. The two sisters were presenting THE WATCHTOWER on the four horsemen of the apocalypse. Patsy took the magazines and as she looked at the article, it seemed to make more sense than anything she had ever read before. So she went to God in prayer again. "God, I have really been duped by religion before and don't want to be again. If these really are your people could you please make them come back again within 3 0 minutes.

As the two witnesses were driving away, they got to the top of the hill and one said to the other: "That woman really needs the REASONING BOOK !
And they turned the car around and drove back to place the REASONING BOOK with her. This time, after the witnesses had left, Patsy went to God again in prayer. "God, I know I'm really pushing it this time, but I need to be sure since I've had such a bad experience with religion before. Would you make them come back one more time within the next 30 minutes."

The two witnesses had gone home, but one of them decided that she wanted Patsy to know what the topic of the Sunday talk would be about so she called up another witness that lived nearby Patsy and asked her if she would run over and tell Patsy the topic. She did and Patsy greeted her at the door with opened arms saying, "You're one of Jehovah's Witnesses aren't you ?"

That Thursday night Patsy came to her first meeting and never missed another. She went to the next assembly and cried because she couldn't get baptized. But, in March she went to a circuit assembly and was baptized.
Then she signed up to auxiliary pioneer and later became a regular pioneer in 1990...

This is the life experience that Patsy told us at a lunch at the Pioneer Service School in August of l991 Now you see why I wanted it to share with others. Feel free to share it with still others. It's very encouraging.

Myrna

1

Young People Ask -- Behind the Scenes

by NikL in

jw
friends

appaently there is a new video out from the masters of fim at brooklyn.

this is a lil fluff biece that has been circulating the net telling all about the filming of this wonderous work of art.. think it will win an oscar?

isn't oscar the grouchy slob that loves in a garbage can os sesame street?

NikL

Appaently there is a new video out from the masters of fim at Brooklyn. This is a lil fluff biece that has been circulating the net telling all about the filming of this wonderous work of art.
Think it will win an Oscar? Isn't Oscar the grouchy slob that loves in a garbage can os Sesame Street? Hmmmm...maybe it will at that!

Young People Ask -- Behind the Scenes

The video "Young People Ask" and especially the drama, also known as, "Tara" has been the Video Department's biggest project yet. The "Whole Association" video was actually shot first and was scheduled to be released before Young People Ask. But the Governing Body was so concerned that the information get out as soon as possible they moved the YPA release up a year.

The drama was shot just like a movie. It was done on 16 mm film instead of videotape. There were many professionals who volunteered their time to work along with the Bethel crew during the production. The director, head grip, acting coach, set designers, make-up artist and second cameraman all were temporary Bethelites during the shooting.

As you may already know all the lead characters, except Tara, were from Bethel. Tara was a pioneer from Connecticut. Yes, she and the brother who played Mark did get married a year or so after the video.

The rap video seen on Lori's television was done by the brothers. The Society was very careful not to refer to it as a music video. It was filmed around the backside of Patterson where the left over building materials were stored. Yes, the rapper is a brother, he worked in laundry. He's about as un-gangsta as you can get. It got quite a laugh when he was recognized during the premiere.

The other laugh came when Mark's favorite "parking place" was shown. That's a building on the hill overlooking Bethel. Some other locations used in "Young People Ask": Lori's house interior was actually a set built in the main studio. The exterior was a house under construction in Westchester County, New York. The classroom was also a set built by the brothers. (Sure looks real, doesn't it?) The school exterior, hallways, and lunchroom are a real school. Of course every kid in the background is a brother or sister.

Filming the Spanish, French and Italian interviews and background footage happened in December 2001. The principal crew members from Bethel (writer, director, cameraman and audio) worked with brothers and sisters from each branch.

Shooting the interviews followed the same format in each country. The branch provided the location and would help the film crew construct the set. The young people would go through the wardrobe choices they had brought to pick out clothes that would look good on video. (No fine lines, no solid white, and colors that looked good together) Then the makeup sisters would make sure no one had shiny noses and hair was in place. Before the interviews began, the writer and a translator would explain to them how the filming would be done. Then one of the brothers would say a prayer and filming would begin. To get the ball rolling the translator would ask a question and then wait for responses. Once it started the kids just talked and we filmed everything. The biggest problem was they had so much good stuff to say about friends it makes it hard to decide what gets shown.

Filming in Spain was great. Since Spain was the first stop on the trip the film crew picked up all of the rental equipment there that they would use at all locations. The branch provided them with a small truck to haul everything around in. They even did some customizing; adding shelves and hooks to secure the equipment better. Whatever they asked for in Spain the brothers gave them double. They asked for a group of young people to interview they gave them two. They asked for an outdoor restaurant to film the opening scene they found an entire Spanish village for them to use. The interviews were conducted in the lobby of the branch. Normally there isn't furniture or drapes there. The brothers moved everything in for the filming, even rearranging some of the potted trees outside the window to help the design.

The three girls shown at the restaurant and driving off in the white convertible were filmed in the village of Chinchon. The name sounds Korean but it really is a town about an hour from Madrid. The mayor was so glad to have someone filming there he gave the brothers the entire town to use. They even let them change a street sign so you couldn't tell the girls' car is going the wrong way down a one way street. One of the best parts about Spain was the food. Not only did the kitchen prepare wonderful meals, they were very accommodating of the late shooting schedule. Once the film crew missed the evening meal and the head of the kitchen personally got food ready for them when filming ended about midnight. A real treat for the film crew was attending meetings at the English language congregation in Madrid. For most of the people, English was their second language. The film crew all felt very much at home with the brothers and sisters there.

13

Anyone else go to special talk?

by NikL in

jw
friends

well today was the day of yet another special talk.

you know the ones where everyone in the world is supposed to get the same one.. anyway, i noticed very little special about this talk which was about keeping jehovahs fearsome day close at hand or something like that.. it was the standard doom and gloom but arent we lucky we have a hope kind of talk and was nothing new except for one thing.

there was no mention about the generation passing away.

NikL

Well today was the day of yet another special talk. You know the ones where everyone in the world is supposed to get the same one.
Anyway, I noticed very little special about this talk which was about keeping Jehovahs fearsome day close at hand or something like that.
It was the standard doom and gloom but arent we lucky we have a hope kind of talk and was nothing new except for one thing. There was no mention about the generation passing away. Nothing, nix, ziltch. They skipped over the scripture even! I found that quite amazing since for the longest time we have been told the generation born in 1914 wouldnt pass away before armagedon.
Watchtower was all about living in the light. Avoid apostates was a big part of it. Simular comments were made last week. I am wondering if there isn't going to be a tightening down coming soon contrary to those that are hoping for a move to a more mainstream stance.
Just my thoughts.
Take care
Nick

22

Another JW urban Legend

by NikL in

jw
friends

well i got e mailed another jw urban legend...er experience.

maybe you have heard it before but if not.... .

i received this great experience, well worth sharing.. .

NikL

Well I got e mailed another JW urban legend...er experience. Maybe you have heard it before but if not...

I received this great experience, well worth sharing.

My son had one of the best ever experiences today with Informal
Witnessing.Let me tell you in detail. My youngest son (16) has only recently
got serious with the truth. This past fall, it was as if he came to maturity
and realized the seriousness of the truth and privilege to tell it to others.
He has gotten serious about his personal study and now looks forward to our
weekly studies.He told me this past week he has prayed in earnest that
Jehovah use him to help someone.

Apparently, Jehovah has answered his prayer.This afternoon, my son was
walking in the city park with his teenage friends from the Hall. There were
numerous persons in the park. My son says he saw a man in his 50's or 60's
with his small dog. He was not there in the park to Witness, but for some
reason he felt he must go Witness to this man with the small dog. Despite
being with a small group of teen friends he approached the man and started up
a conversation focused on the Paradise Earth with the hope of everlasting
life promised by Jehovah God. He witnessed to the man for some time on the
positive hope under God's Kingdom.The man responded with interest and my son
told him to wait so he could go to the car and get some tracts for him to
read when he goes home tonight.

When my son came back with the tracts the man asked him, "Why had he picked
him to Witness to and Testify about Jesus?". "Why did you Witness to me
today, the man asked?"
My son said he did not know, only that he felt that he should.The man then
went on to say he had been deeply depressed by all the bad things that were
happening in his life. He said that he had come to the decision to kill
himself right then and there in the park. He said his gun was in the car and
he had decided to go sit in the car, shoot his dog and then shoot himself.He
was in awe that this young boy at this very time came over to him for no
reason and gave him a positive hope about the Paradise and a time when there
would be no more pain and suffering. After much discussion he assured my son
that he would not kill himself, but would go home and read the Bible tracts.
My son got his phone number and said he would call later that evening to
check on him.

Shortly after my son arrived home and told us about the incident, I
telephoned the man myself and the man tearfully confirmed the story. He told
me he went back to the car and dismantled the gun and threw it into the
water, because he said he now knew he did not want to kill himself.Previously
that day when he left home, he had already thought that he would probably
kill himself, so when he left the apartment, not caring less, he left the
front door standing wide open. Upon arriving home, he had found that his
apartment had been robbed, even groceries had been removed from the
refrigerator.He called the police about the robbery.

In the police investigation he admitted that he had left the door standing
open and even related how he had decided to kill himself in the park. The
police asked him why he did not call the suicide hotline. He told them he did
not have to call the hotline because he met an Angel in the park that stopped
him from killing himself. (my son the angel )During our phone call we
arranged to start a Bible study early next week. He said he had been reading
the Bible tracts my son had given him and was joyful for what he was learning
from his Bible as he looked up the Bible text. I encouraged him not to be
discouraged from further searching into the truth if others condemn him for
talking to Jehovah's Witnesses. He said if anyone spoke harshly of Jehovah's
Witnesses, he would stand up for them from now on and let them know that
Jehovah's Witnesses had saved his life.Somewhat emotional, the man asked me
to please say a prayer before we hung up the telephone. I said a short prayer
and the man said he will be looking forward to meeting me soon.

Jehovah does work in wonderful ways, he answered my son's prayer today and
helped an honest hearted man see there is still hope for mankind.

4

Experience about Bro. Nelson (Prince)

by NikL in

jw
friends

i just got this story in an e mail.. i don't know if i should laugh or gag.. anyway, this sort of falls into urban legend territory.. read and see what i mean.... .

this past sunday (rainy and dreary) at our 3:30 p.m. meeting in bowie, a .

brother took the microphone and gave his name as "brother graham".

NikL

I just got this story in an e mail.
I don't know if I should laugh or gag.
anyway, this sort of falls into urban legend territory.
Read and see what I mean...

This past Sunday (rainy and dreary) at our 3:30 p.m. meeting in Bowie, a
group of 12-14 individuals walked into the Bowie South Kingdom Hall. I turned
briefly and saw lots of people with long hair and fashionable clothes, and
made a mental note to be sure to say "hello" after the meeting to these "new
ones" coming to the Hall for the first time.

I noticed a little red-headed, freckled boy sitting in front of my daughter,
Emmanuelle, and I said to her "doesn't that little boy look like Prince
Harry, Princess Diana's son in England?" She sat up rigid in her seat and
started to scribble on her notepad feverishly. The words she wrote were,
"Don't say the word "Prince", because he is sitting right behind me."
Confused, I turned my head to the right and there he was, "Prince", "The
Artist Formerly Known As" or whatever he calls himself now.

He was very interested in all of the Watchtower comments made by the little
ones in the Hall, as I could see him lean forward to catch a glimpse of their
faces as they would answer questions. One person sitting beside him raised
his hand to answer a question, perhaps for the first time, and it was obvious
that he was not used to giving comments at the meeting. After he gave his
shaky response, Prince leaned over to him and asked, "Hey, what's the matter,
Man, are you nervous or something?" Then one of our brothers raised his
hand to read a scripture, but read the wrong one (nervousness) and the
conductor made a joke about him having "good intentions" even though he was
reading the wrong one, and Prince laughed out loud.

Later, the conductor called on another brother "in the back row" and the
brother took the microphone and gave his name as "Brother Graham". Yes, it
was "One In A Million" Larry Graham and his wife, who both gave lots of
excellent comments throughout the meeting. It was great to hear them
expressing their faith in Jehovah.

A few minutes later, the conductor called on another brother in the back row,
who quietly took the microphone and announced his name as "Brother Nelson"
and he explained that it was bible truths that made him change his life, turn
around and try to serve Jehovah. I didn't know Prince's real name is Prince
Nelson.......After the meeting and song, a long, black,
s-t-r-e-t-t-t-t-t-t-t--c-h limousine awaited the entourage as they shook
hands with publishers. Larry Graham said to my husband Pete and me, "We
serve a wonderful God. Look what He is doing with Prince. Jehovah draws all
sorts of people to Him, and then it is up to those individuals to do the
rest."

The party of about 14 slipped into the limousine with one of our brothers
(Bro. Craig Tracey) to go to the Warner Theater for Sunday's last show. It
wasn't until that moment that the friends realized the Craig used to play
guitar professionally in a band and his wife (Sis Jennifer Tracey) used to
sing professionally. They had been so modest in our congregation, one would
have never suspected that they had backstage passes to Prince's show the
night before, and had received a call from Larry Graham looking for a Kingdom
Hall in the area a week ago.

It was a great evening where we were all discussing thorns in the flesh in
the Watchtower study. I couldn't help but think about Prince's thorn (the
death of his child, which led him to ask bible-based questions about death,
the resurrection, etc.) If Prince could, I'm sure he would spend any amount
necessary to bring back his child, but all the money in the world can't do
that. Jehovah is the only answer for us all.

2

Is this a JW editorial?

by NikL in

jw
friends

i got e mailed this editorial today.

it was supposed to be from the minneapolis star tribune newspaper.

i went to their website and sure enough it is there.

NikL

I got e mailed this editorial today. It was supposed to be from the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper. I went to their website and sure enough it is there. Here is the link for you to check it out... http://www.startribune.com/stories/562/2207318.html
I am also posting the text. Is this a JW writing this or what?

What to expect when religion threatens peace of social order

For centuries, political leaders have tolerated and sometimes even co-opted religious beliefs and believers in order to attain their political goals. But now that religion seriously threatens the peace and security of the social order, don't be surprised to see political leaders turn on religion, in all of its manifestations, with a vengeance.

The table is being neatly set for such an intervention by the daily horrific revelations in the media. The painful, faith-shaking conflict in the Middle East is, of course, the prime example, and it has galvanized believers on all sides, pitting Muslim against Jew and Christian against Muslim. But it is also playing out against a background of fundamental issues within Christendom that is startling in its immensity.

Pope John Paul broke his silence on the sex-abuse cases rocking the Catholic Church recently, saying, "Grave scandal is caused, with the result that a dark shadow of suspicion is cast over all the other fine priests who perform their ministry with honesty and integrity and often with heroic self-sacrifice." But the problem that the pope has never acknowledged is that a systemic practice of sexual abuse has emerged involving not only individual clerics but also the church hierarchy, including himself. By seeking to protect its priests and its reputation at all costs, the church has done untold harm to thousands in the United States and abroad, harm from which many may never recover.

In January, the Catholic Church in Ireland agreed to a $110 million payment to children abused by clergy over several decades. At least 20 Irish Catholic officials have been convicted of molesting children. Similar cover-ups have been reported in Austria, England, France and Poland, as well as other countries. While the Catholic Church may be the largest religious organization to face such revelations -- and is unusual in its propensity for preying on boys -- it is by no means alone. Related charges have been leveled against Anglicans, Buddhists, Hindus, Episcopal bishops, Methodists and Baptists. The list is long, the story is tawdry, and the pain is universal.

Spiritual leaders who defile their flocks set in motion a chain reaction of anguish and rage that frequently ends with the believers' faith being crushed. That echoes throughout the community and, most importantly, often leaves believers wondering whether God himself exists or even cares about their plight. Churches frequently use their spiritual authority to deny their sins, avoid repentance and/or punishment, and therefore never reach the stage known in the Bible as turning around. And because they do not turn around -- whether the sin is sexual or political -- they do grave injury to God's name.

So, for believers who wonder what the abuses and scandals and the numerous religious wars throughout history mean, I offer the following explanation meant to soothe and console those who seek righteousness, justice and peace on earth: The Almighty has never approved of 99 percent of what is done on earth in his name. Many who claim to represent him are frauds and charlatans who prey upon the weaknesses of those they should protect, and are disciples of a false god who is designated for destruction. The very structure of many religions and their false beliefs converts God into something like a wayward father or a crazy uncle, without brains or compassion. This is the ultimate blasphemy and will soon be revealed as such.

But before that time, it is crucial that God's good name be vindicated and that those who are defiling the earth while loudly proclaiming that they speak for him be silenced. These heinous crimes -- sexual abuse, warmongering, teaching the traditions of men as if they were the word of God -- are being made manifest today so as to guide the faithful to a new understanding of God's purpose on earth.

That purpose will be served, initially, by political rulers who will turn on religion, throw its precious gold, silver and jewels in the street, and strip of their power clerics of all faiths. Interestingly, the Bible describes these religious rulers as kings without a kingdom. The political rulers will act effectively in removing these religious kings. And because the heavens will not consume their invading armies with fire when they destroy holy cities and relics the world over, these leaders will be filled with false pride and will actually imagine that they have vanquished God himself. Nothing will be further from the truth.

Perhaps I am an old fool, given to imaginings that happen to run parallel to biblical prophecy. But I believe, more than ever, that God is calling all of those who wish to live on a cleansed earth, out from among those religious organizations that are the province of his greatest enemy: the invisible ruler of the air, in whose hands the whole world now lies spinning. Perhaps we would do well to keep awake, be vigilant in prayer, and heed his call.

20

More JW urban legends

by NikL in

jw
friends

well here is a new batch of jw urban legends (oops, i mean experiences) i just got in the e mail.

thought i would share the joy and lighten your day ;-).

a sister took her granddaughter to the circuit assembly with her.. later that evening at home, the sister told her granddaughter to get .

NikL

Well here is a new batch of JW urban legends (oops, I mean experiences) I just got in the e mail. Thought I would share the joy and lighten your day ;-)
A sister took her granddaughter to the Circuit Assembly with her.
Later that evening at home, the sister told her granddaughter to get
ready to have her bath. When the sister came back into the bathroom,
she noticed that her granddaughter had gotten in the bathtub with her
watch on. The sister said, "Oh, no honey, you have to take your watch
off too." Her granddaughter said, "No, I can't!". The sister asked why
and the little girl responded, "Because the brother said in his talk
today that we have to 'Keep on the watch'!"

------------------------------------------------------------------------
A couple went out of town to attend a quickbuild. They stayed in a
local hotel along with other visiting friends.
When they were ready to leave, they went to the front desk to pay their
bill.
The hotel owner said, "Don't worry about it. You bill has already been
paid." How did this happen? The man explained, "Many people in the
town thought that you couldn't build your Kingdom Hall in just two days,
so I took their bets. All of your bills have been more than taken care
of."

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

A little brother was in the ministry and said that he had a return
visit.
An older brother accompanied him. When the man opened the door and saw
the little boy, he said, "I told you before that I'm not interested in
your magazines and yet you keep coming back."
The little brother said, "But I have different magazines this time,
Sir."
So the man said, "Alright, I'll take them but remember, I'm NOT
interested,"
and he closed the door. As the two brothers left the door, the little
one said, "Wait, I have to write this down." The older brother was
curious as to what he was writing, so he looked over his shoulder and
watched as the little brother wrote, "Placed two magazines with man who
PRETENDS not to be interested."

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

A brother who was blind was able to get around by means of a seeing eye
dog.
Eventually the brother passed away, and his dog was passed on to another
man who lived nearby. The man began to notice that, like clockwork, on
every Tuesday and Thursday evening, the dog would position himself next
to the front door. The man was puzzled, so one day he decided he would
follow where the dog would lead. The dog, of course, led his new master
right to the Kingdom Hall.
The man did not know where he was, but the people seemed very friendly,
so he decided to stay and listen.
After the meeting, the man accepted a Bible study and he is now our
brother.
The Bethel speaker ended this experience by saying, "Now, if a DOG can
find his way to the meetings... well, you get the idea." :)

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

A brother was getting ready to put his young daughter to bed and say
prayers with her. When he got to her bedroom door, he saw that she had
already begun to pray, so he stood at the door and listened. The
daughter mentioned a few things in her prayer, and then began to recite
the entire alphabet. Once she was finished, her father went in and
asked why she recited the alphabet.
"Well," the little girl said, "There are many things that I want to say,
but I don't know the words, so I gave Jehovah all of the letters of the
alphabet so he can figure out what I want to say."

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

A sister who lives in a country where the work is still under ban was on
her way home. While she was walking, she was discreetly witnessing to
people that she came across. She noticed a strange man following her,
so she began to walk faster and eventually lost him.
Later, when she was at the bus stop, she saw that the man had caught up
with her, and he proceeded to follow her onto the bus, and sit directly
behind her. He began to say obscenities to her as well as derogatory
things about the witnesses. A woman who was sitting next to the sister
and had heard all of the things the man said stood up and announced, "Is
there anyone MAN enough to throw this rude man off of the bus?" Two men
obliged her request and threw the man off of the bus, and the sister was
able to get home safely.