Balaamsass236 minutes agoYou were wrong about 'no more posts
'...why believe this one?You keep repeating yourself. Are you intoxicated by the smell of your ass, or humiliated each time your ass rebukes you? Ha!!
Posts by EisMe
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The Four Horses of the Apocalypse - In Truth
by EisMe in1. now i saw when the lamb opened one of the seals; and i heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, “come and see.” 2. and i looked, and behold, a white horse.
he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.
6. and i heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “a quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.” (rev.
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EisMe
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Demonic Influence While Intoxicated
by EisMe inscripture consistently warns against intoxication, highlighting how substance abuse weakens judgment and opens individuals to spiritual deception.
while various herbs were used in biblical worship, they were only burned as incense, never smoked or ingested.
additionally, there is no historical record of marijuana being used in ceremonial worship, either in the bible or among ancient civilizations.. warnings against intoxication and loss of judgment.
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EisMe
Scripture consistently warns against intoxication, highlighting how substance abuse weakens judgment and opens individuals to spiritual deception. While various herbs were used in biblical worship, they were only burned as incense, never smoked or ingested. Additionally, there is no historical record of marijuana being used in ceremonial worship, either in the Bible or among ancient civilizations.
Warnings Against Intoxication and Loss of Judgment
- Proverbs 20:1 – "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise."
- Proverbs 23:29-35 – "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife?... In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper."
- Ephesians 5:18 – "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit."
- 1 Corinthians 6:10 – "Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God."
- Luke 21:34 – "Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life..."
Demonic Influence in Vulnerable States
- Mark 9:17-18 – "A spirit seizes him, and he suddenly screams; it throws him into convulsions so that he foams at the mouth."
- Luke 9:42 – "Even while the boy was approaching, the demon slammed him to the ground in a convulsion."
- 1 Peter 5:8 – "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."
These passages reveal that demonic possession and spiritual attack often target weakened states, whether due to intoxication, emotional distress, or physical exhaustion.
Biblical Herbs Were Burned, Not Smoked or Ingested
- Exodus 30:23-25 – "Take the following fine spices: liquid myrrh, fragrant cinnamon, fragrant cane, cassia, and olive oil. Make these into a sacred anointing oil."
- Leviticus 2:1-2 – "Put incense on the offering and take it to the priests."
- Numbers 16:46-47 – "Take your censer and put incense in it, along with burning coals from the altar."
- Psalm 51:7 – "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow."
These scriptures confirm that herbs were never smoked or ingested in worship—they were burned as incense for purification and prayer.
No Scriptural or Historical Evidence of Marijuana in Ceremonial Worship
- While some claim biblical references to herbs could include cannabis, scholars agree there is no direct link between marijuana and formal worship.
- Genesis 1:29 speaks of seed-bearing plants, but does not mention marijuana or intoxicating substances for religious purposes.
- Exodus 30:23 refers to "kaneh-bosm," which some speculate could be cannabis, yet linguistic studies identify it as calamus instead.
Native American Peyote vs. Marijuana
- Peyote (not marijuana) was used in vision quests and spiritual ceremonies by certain Native American tribes.
- Marijuana was not historically part of Native American rituals. Their traditional peace pipes contained tobacco, kinnikinnick, and medicinal herbs, but not cannabis.
Final Connection: Satan’s Strategy Through Substance Abuse
• Intoxication weakens self-control, allowing spiritual deception to take hold. • Drunkenness and drug use distort judgment, leading individuals away from righteousness. • Demonic influence targets vulnerable states, including those caused by substance abuse. • Biblical herbs were burned, not smoked or ingested, contradicting claims that marijuana was a ceremonial herb. • Marijuana was never used in scriptural worship, and only peyote appears in Native American spiritual practices.
Estephan
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The Four Horses of the Apocalypse - In Truth
by EisMe in1. now i saw when the lamb opened one of the seals; and i heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, “come and see.” 2. and i looked, and behold, a white horse.
he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.
6. and i heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “a quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.” (rev.
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EisMe
1. Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, “Come and see.” 2. And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer. (Rev. 6:1, 2)
The White Horse – Germany
Germany was the first nation to commence World War II when it invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. This act of aggression led Britain and France to declare war on Germany, marking the official start of the global conflict. The invasion was carried out using Blitzkrieg tactics, a strategy of rapid, overwhelming force that combined air strikes, mechanized infantry, and armored divisions.
Historical Connection to the Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire, which had a long history of military innovation, was known for its use of compound bows in battle. These bows were highly effective due to their powerful draw and compact design, allowing Ottoman warriors to strike from a distance with precision. The Ottoman military influence extended into Europe, particularly through alliances and military exchanges.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Germany and the Ottoman Empire developed a close military relationship. Germany provided military technology and strategic guidance to the Ottomans, particularly during World War I. This partnership influenced Ottoman military tactics, including the use of long-range weaponry and strategic warfare.
White Representing Germany
· Germany is historically associated with Caucasian identity, which aligns with the white horse.
· The crown suggests authority and rulership, which fits Germany’s rise to imperial and military dominance.
· "Conquering and to conquer" reflects Germany’s military campaigns during World War I and World War II.
The Red Horse – China in World War II
3. When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, “Come and see.” 4. Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword. (Rev. 6:3,4)
Red Representing China
· China has long been associated with the color red, particularly in its modern history. The term "Red China" became widely used after the Communist revolution, symbolizing Communism, revolution, and militant upheaval.
· The Red Horse in Revelation is described as bringing war and internal conflict, which aligns with China’s experience during World War II.
China’s Role in World War II
During World War II, China was engaged in a brutal conflict both internally and externally:
- The Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945): China was invaded by Imperial Japan, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. The war was marked by atrocities such as the Nanjing Massacre, where hundreds of thousands of civilians were killed.
- Internal Civil War: While fighting Japan, China was also divided between the Nationalists (Kuomintang) and the Communists (led by Mao Zedong). This internal struggle led to infighting and political instability, fulfilling the prophecy that "people should kill one another."
- The Great Sword – Military Conflict: China suffered millions of casualties, both from Japanese aggression and internal purges. The Communist forces and Nationalist armies fought bitterly, even as they attempted to resist Japan.
How This Links to the Red Horse
· "Fiery red" matches China’s national symbolism and the bloodshed of its wartime struggles.
· "Taking peace from the earth" reflects China’s internal and external conflicts, which destabilized the region.
· "People should kill one another" aligns with the civil war between Nationalists and Communists.
· "A great sword" represents the massive military campaigns and violence that engulfed China during this period.
The Black Horse – The United States and Economic Control
5. When He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come and see.” So I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. 6. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.” (Rev. 5, 6)
Black Representing the United States
· The color black is linked to America's control over oil markets, particularly in the Gulf War and other Middle Eastern conflicts.
· The United States has strategically influenced oil production, either through diplomatic negotiations or military intervention.
· Historically, black has also been associated with African American slavery, which built America’s early wealth through agriculture, particularly wheat and barley.
The Scales – Symbolizing the U.S. Justice System
· The rider holds a pair of scales, mirroring Lady Justice, a well-known U.S. legal symbol.
· While intended to represent fairness, the justice system often upheld racial and economic inequality, reinforcing structures that exploited Black labor.
· The passage suggests judgment and economic regulation, tying into the nation’s legal and financial systems.
Economic Disparity and Biblical Symbolism
· "A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius" reflects economic disparity between laborers and elite wealth.
· Enslaved individuals worked in wheat and barley fields but received no wages, contributing to the nation’s economic rise.
· Oil symbolizes control over global energy markets, including Middle Eastern interventions.
· Wine represents America’s self-identification as a Christian nation, though its actions often contradicted Jesus’ teachings on justice, mercy, and humility.
How This Links to the Black Horse
· Black represents America’s economic rise through slavery and oil control.
· The scales reflect justice, but also the imbalance of power.
· Measured wages symbolize disparity between labor and compensation.
· Oil and wine represent America’s military and religious influence.
The Pale Horse – Adolf Hitler and the Global Conflict
7. When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, “Come and see.” 8. So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth. (Rev. 7, 8)
Pale Representing Hitler and His Influence
· The color pale is tied to Palestine, where Jewish settlement was strongly opposed.
· Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, shared Hitler’s views against Jewish migration, reinforcing the symbolism of the Pale Horse.
Death and Hades – Hitler’s Role in World War II
· "Death" is assigned to Hitler for the mass genocide of the Jewish people during the Holocaust.
· "Hades" refers to the grave, aligning with Hitler’s mass burial pits and his own suicide, further linking him to death and the grave.
The Beasts of the Earth – Nations at War
· The phrase "beasts of the earth" represents nations at war, aligning with World War II.
· In Daniel, beasts symbolize kingdoms, reinforcing the idea that Hitler’s actions led to global conflict.
How This Links to the Pale Horse
· Pale represents Palestine, where opposition to Jewish settlement was strong.
· Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, was a key figure opposing Jewish migration into Palestine. He aligned with Adolf Hitler, advocating against Jewish resettlement in the region. Their shared opposition reinforces the meaning behind the Pale Horse, linking it directly to Palestine’s contested status.
· Death is assigned to Hitler, reflecting his role in the Holocaust and mass killings.
· Hades symbolizes the grave, aligning with Hitler’s use of mass burial pits and his own suicide.
· The beasts of the earth represent nations at war, fulfilling the prophecy through World War II.
· The connection to Daniel strengthens the meaning, as beasts symbolize kingdoms engaged in conflict.
Estephan Leuese
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Admonishment to the Governing Body of the Watch Tower Society By - YHWH
by EisMe inadmonishment to the governing body of the watch tower society.
to the governing body of jehovah’s witnesses: you have presented yourselves as god’s appointed messengers, yet nowhere in scripture does god declare your authority as his chosen representatives.
by falsely claiming divine appointment, you have led many into spiritual bondage, deceiving them into believing you alone have the truth.. misuse of donated labor & financial deception.
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EisMe
Hello Blondie. I remember you from years back. In case you have not figured it out, I am the one known as Brownboy back in the previous years. My message is still the same, is it not? It was while I was posting opinions, messages, or whatever one cares to call them, that I was chosen. By now I would expect you have matured enough to recognize the times we live in as signs of the end. God knows this, but I do not. Do you reach out to Him in a righteous manner in prayer? Have you lost sight of the fact that it is God who we are to serve, and not man? How long are those on this forum going to complain about what other humans have taught them? Seek God in prayer and ask Him to guide you. He will place it into your heart what you need in order to be found worthy of salvation. Why is it you laugh? You should at least point out the reason you laugh. Otherwise, I will just assume you saw your reflection in the mirror.
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Is Belief in Jesus Enough to be Saved? Or Does it Include Believing Jesus?
by Sea Breeze ini don't think it is possible to believe in jesus and then not believe what he said.
the purpose of the watchtower organization is to take as many people to hell as possible.
they do this by tricking people into rejecting the bare minimum requirements for the free gift of salvation that jesus offered to ”whosoever”.. one of the stipulations for salvation is belief that jesus was raised from the dead:.
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EisMe
Sea Breezea day ago
I don't think it is possible to believe in Jesus and then not believe what He said.Why do you say this?
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WT AUGUST 2025: NEW LIGHT ON HAILSTONE MESSAGE : IS IT BIBLICAL OR JUST CONVENIENT?
by raymond frantz inhttps://youtu.be/n_fttvylm-m?si=l44406ohysubkajr.
so today we are considering, the watchtower's new take on the "hailstone message", and if you don't know what that is , they used to believe that according to revelation 16:21 they would be preaching a hard hitting message during the time of the end.
now, let's read the verse first from the new world translation: "then great hailstones, each about the weight of a talent, fell from heaven on the people, and the people blasphemed god because of the plague of hail, for the plague was unusually great" now this is their new understanding as it appears from the 3rd paragraph from their new watchtower study edition for august 2025 and their article:when will the preaching work end, has this to say: "our clarified understanding of matthew 24:14 also adjusts our understanding of the hailstonelike message foretold at revelation 16:21. further examination has revealed that the two scriptures complement each other.
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EisMe
Hailstones in reference to preaching work? There is no denying that preaching the good news of The Kingdom of God is essential. However,Rev.16:21 in no way refers to preaching.
911: The First Blow Against Babylon - Prophecy Fulfilled
"And great hailstones, about one hundred pounds each, fell from heaven upon men" (Revelation 16:21). This prophecy found its terrifying fulfillment in the devastating rain of debris from the Twin Towers—literal hundred-pound pieces falling from the sky onto the streets of New York's financial district.
"The merchants of the sea will stand far off, watching the smoke of her burning. They will cry out: 'Was there ever a city like this great city?' They threw dust on their heads, and cried out, weeping and wailing..." (Revelation 18:17-19). This scene played out exactly as prophesied:
- Observers watched from boats in New York Harbor
- People stood "afar off" across the water in New Jersey
- They witnessed the smoke rising exactly as Scripture foretold
- Financial merchants (Wall Street) could only watch from a distance as their center of trade burned
The economic impact was immediate and devastating:
- The stock market lost $1.47 trillion in value in the first week
- The insurance industry paid out $40 billion, crippling financial institutions
- The airline industry collapsed, leading to mass layoffs and disruptions
- New York lost 143,000 jobs per month, devastating local economies
- The war in Afghanistan drained $2.313 trillion, bleeding Babylon's resources dry
This was God's first judgment against economic Babylon, but it would not be His last. Babylon the Great is symbolic for the worldwide economy. It is not symbolic of The Empire of False Religion. Please take note of truth verses fantasy. Soon, the world economy will collapse, as God's final judgment against Babylon the Great.
E.
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A Revelation By: YHWH (יהוה) – "The Holocaust" (Sensitive and Meaningful Information. Please Show Respect)
by EisMe inat the direction of our heavenly father, yhwh (יהוה), i am providing you with information which this world has never comprehended or have found the meaning to.
the account of shadrach, meshach, and abednego cast into the fire flame.
this is divine proof that he, along with jesus, are with me now in preparation of taking over his world through his son jesus christ, amen!!
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EisMe
Listener17 hours agoEisMe - Perhaps I did not clarify, however, it was late in the night, and I knew in my mind my purpose. I apologize to those that were misled.
What you wrote 8 days ago was -
“ This will be the final topic I post. The structured fulfillment of prophecy has now been made undeniably clear, and after completing one final task—the letter to the governing body of Jehovah’s Witnesses—I will take my rest. The truth has been presented, the timeline confirmed, and all that remains is the culmination of prophecy itself.” Estephan Leuese”Please take note of what I said: "This will be the final topic I post." This is in reference to interpretation of prophecy. I have ten chapters, or topics, within my soon to be published E-Book. I was making reference to the following list. I was content with finalizing my last topic. However, I added one more. It is "The Fours Beasts of Daniel, Chapter 7". When I publish my E-book, I will post a link to its location where those that choose to read it can. You continue to create an issue where one does not exist. Put your mind to rest as well as putting this issue to rest please. Instead, make an attempt at writing something worthwhile which others, including myself, can make use of. Making it interesting, exciting, or thought provoking. This will draw attention to your writings. Think about it ;)
Estephan
Index – Chapters 1 through 10
Acknowledgments
1. I AM THAT I AM
2. Unveiling the Number 666
3. The Four Beasts of Daniel, Chapter 7
4. Donald Trump: The 8th King of Prophecy
5. Babylon the Great
6. The Great Tribulation: A World on Fire
7. The Two Witnesses of Revelation
8. The Man of Lawlessness
9. The Times of the Gentiles
10. The Prophetic Days in Daniel
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Admonishment to the Governing Body of the Watch Tower Society By - YHWH
by EisMe inadmonishment to the governing body of the watch tower society.
to the governing body of jehovah’s witnesses: you have presented yourselves as god’s appointed messengers, yet nowhere in scripture does god declare your authority as his chosen representatives.
by falsely claiming divine appointment, you have led many into spiritual bondage, deceiving them into believing you alone have the truth.. misuse of donated labor & financial deception.
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EisMe
Balaamsass220 hours agoEisme, the Governing body of JWs don't read this site, only a few Bethel worker bees near the legal department bother visiting a few times a week (per my relative).
I do not post any information upon this forum in anticipation of any JW's reading it. Trust me when I say that this information will makes its way to those in need of correction by way of direct mail. I reached out to the governing body around the year 2003 in a very direct and profound way, so that no one listening in on the conversation missed the point. This point being the fact that I am the only faithful and wise servant who has been appointed by God Himself. No other person, whether they refer to themselves as a group, or class, can ever claim that which belongs to me. The entire world will know who I am when Jesus himself makes it known to all. This will be in accordance with the time set by YHWH, and no one else. YHWH, along with Jesus Christ, are my direct authority, and I will obey each and every utterance that escapes their mouth. This is the meaning of true, faithful, and pure worship, of Him who deserves it. This person being the One and Only "True" GOD, YHWH. Amen from now, and until time indefinite.
The Only True and Faithful Wise Servant, Estephan Leuese.
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A Revelation By: YHWH (יהוה) – "The Holocaust" (Sensitive and Meaningful Information. Please Show Respect)
by EisMe inat the direction of our heavenly father, yhwh (יהוה), i am providing you with information which this world has never comprehended or have found the meaning to.
the account of shadrach, meshach, and abednego cast into the fire flame.
this is divine proof that he, along with jesus, are with me now in preparation of taking over his world through his son jesus christ, amen!!
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EisMe
A Response to Those Who Claim I Lied or Fibbed
My last post symbolized the completion of my booklet: I AM THAT I AM – The Birth of The Kingdom of God. I plan to distribute it to those who comprehend the information within. Perhaps I did not clarify, however, it was late in the night, and I knew in my mind my purpose. I apologize to those that were misled.
The Truth About the WTBTS & Biblical Principles
The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (WTBTS), which includes the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, harbors corruption, as I have previously exposed. However, despite this, most of their teachings remain biblically sound. Of all self-proclaimed Christian entities, they adhere to Bible principles with unmatched diligence.
Jehovah’s Witnesses correctly reject the Trinity doctrine, a concept developed by council members who claim divine inspiration. However, the very idea that Jesus would pray or speak to Himself is utterly illogical.
The Trinity & Schizophrenia: A Theological Paradox
The doctrine of the Trinity asserts that God is one being yet consists of three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. However, this raises a fundamental contradiction:
- If God and Jesus are separate persons yet one being, does this mean they are engaged in self-dialogue?
- If Jesus prays to the Father (Matthew 26:39), is he talking to himself?
- If the Father speaks from heaven as Jesus is baptized (Matthew 3:16-17), does this imply a fractured consciousness?
Such contradictions mirror symptoms of schizophrenia, where an individual experiences disorganized thinking, auditory hallucinations, or a split perception of reality. While this is not a direct medical diagnosis, the Trinity doctrine reflects characteristics of a divided mind.
God Is Not the Author of Confusion
Scripture explicitly states: "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
Yet, the Trinity doctrine creates deep confusion, even among its supporters. Many cannot coherently explain it, resorting to statements like "God is a mystery" when faced with logical contradictions. If God’s nature is meant to be understood, then a doctrine that contradicts reason cannot be divinely inspired.
Biblical Clarity: God’s Singular Identity
The Bible consistently affirms that YHWH is One—not three persons in one being:
- Deuteronomy 6:4 – “Hear, O Israel: YHWH our God, YHWH is one!”
- Isaiah 45:5 – “I am YHWH, and there is no other; apart from Me there is no God.”
- Mark 12:29 – “The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! YHWH our God is one YHWH.’”
- 1 Corinthians 8:6 – “Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live.”
- Ephesians 4:6 – “One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
God's Judgment by Deeds, Not Belief Alone
Many argue that faith alone is the measure of salvation, but Scripture teaches otherwise. God looks to the heart of every individual, judging righteously based on deeds, not merely belief.
- Revelation 20:12 – “The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.”
- Ephesians 4:5-6 – “One YHWH, one faith, one baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in all.”
- Isaiah 2:4 – “He will settle disputes among the nations; they will beat their swords into plowshares.”
Christianity, Judaism, & Islam: God’s Judgment on the Heart
Among the major faiths—Christianity, Judaism, and Islam—there is a shared pursuit of righteousness. While each tradition follows different paths, they all seek to worship and honor YHWH.
Rather than judging individuals solely by their religion, God’s righteous judgment is based on deeds, obedience, and sincerity of heart—not just adherence to a particular doctrine. Faith must be reflected in action.
Final Call to Unity: A Place of Refuge in the Last Days
In these last days, no one knows the day or hour. Yet even the most simple-minded individual can recognize that this world is spiraling toward destruction. It is time to set arguments aside and unite under One God and One Faith.
Let YHWH and Jesus fulfill prophecy—bringing an end to this wicked system. While the future remains uncertain, a wise and discerning person would seek refuge within a strong, established organization capable of sustaining life.
Please return to the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in wisdom. Despite the flaws of leadership, they maintain biblical integrity, uphold separation from the world, and follow Jesus’ example of ministry. Their resources and structure may serve as a shelter in the coming tribulation, ensuring survival in uncertain times.
It is my duty to bring clarity to this congregation, whether they choose to believe or not. I have made the truth known, so restructure your minds thoughts as to truth. I will fulfill my duty as the “True” faithful and wise servant in these last days.
Put serious thought into this matter. The time is short.
Estephan, a Brother in Christ According to the True Meaning of Such, Amen!
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Babylon The Great
by EisMe inbabylon the great: a prophetic warning.
babylon the great is not just a city—it is the system that governs the world economy.
this was god's first judgment against economic babylon, but it would not be his last.. the three parts of babylon's economy.
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EisMe
Vanderhoven716 hours agoHere is a great commentary by GAI
Although the identity of Babylon the Great and the "Harlot" or "Great Prostitute" in Revelation 17 is a subject of ongoing debate among biblical scholars and theologians, a significant body of thought, supported by various biblical arguments, points to apostate Israel, and specifically Jerusalem, as the Harlot.
Here's a breakdown of the evidence
1. Consistent Old Testament Imagery:- Harlotry as Idolatry: The Old Testament frequently uses the metaphor of "harlotry" or "adultery" to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and pursuing alliances with other nations. Prophets like Hosea, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel extensively employ this imagery (e.g., Jeremiah 2:20-24; 3:2-3; Ezekiel 16:1-43; 23). This strong precedent suggests that when John uses "harlot" in Revelation, he is drawing on this established biblical motif to describe spiritual unfaithfulness.
- Israel as God's Bride: In the Old Testament, Israel is often depicted as God's chosen bride, uniquely covenanted to Him. Her turning away to other gods is therefore seen as spiritual adultery, hence the "harlot" imagery. This covenant relationship makes the term "harlot" particularly fitting for Israel when she becomes unfaithful, as opposed to other nations who were never in such a covenant.
- Many scholars highlight the striking parallels between Revelation 17 and Ezekiel 16 and 23, which graphically describe Jerusalem's (and Samaria's) spiritual harlotry. The language and themes of prostitution, lavish adornment, and judgment for unfaithfulness are strongly echoed in Revelation.
- This is a key verse for those who see Israel as the Harlot. Throughout biblical history, it was often Jerusalem and the Jewish leaders who persecuted and killed the prophets (e.g., Matthew 23:37-38; Luke 13:33-34). The early Christian persecution also originated significantly within Jewish communities who opposed the followers of Jesus. This aligns with the Harlot being "drunk with the blood of the saints and of the martyrs of Jesus."
- While Revelation 17 explicitly calls the Harlot "Babylon the Great," Revelation 11:8 refers to "the great city where their Lord was crucified." This location is unequivocally Jerusalem. For some, this link suggests that the Harlot, while referred to as "Babylon" (a symbolic name for a persecuting power), ultimately represents Jerusalem in its apostate state.
- Those who argue for Israel as the Harlot often contend that "Babylon" in Revelation is not literal Babylon or even necessarily literal Rome, but a symbolic name for a corrupt religious and political system that opposes God and persecutes His people. Given Israel's historical role and eventual rejection of Messiah, some see Jerusalem as having become "Babylonian" in its spiritual character.
- Several biblical scholars and theologians, particularly those from a preterist or partial-preterist interpretive viewpoint, have argued for Jerusalem/apostate Israel as the Harlot. Some notable names include:
- David Chilton (e.g., The Days of Vengeance: An Exposition of the Book of Revelation)
- J. Massyngberde Ford (Revelation in the Anchor Bible series)
- Kenneth Gentry (e.g., Before Jerusalem Fell: Dating the Book of Revelation)
- J. Stuart Russell (The Parousia: A Critical Inquiry into the New Testament Doctrine of Our Lord's Return)
While the identification of the Harlot in Revelation varies among scholars, the arguments for apostate Israel/Jerusalem are compelling, primarily due to the consistent use of "harlotry" imagery for Israel in the Old Testament, the parallels with Ezekiel's prophecies, and the references to the blood of saints and prophets. Understanding this perspective requires a careful examination of biblical typology and the symbolic language of Revelation.Babylon the Great: More Than Just Jerusalem—A Global Economic System
Vanderhoven7 presents a well-structured argument linking apostate Israel/Jerusalem to the Harlot of Revelation 17, but I respectfully challenge this view. While Jerusalem has historically been accused of spiritual harlotry, the broader prophetic context of Babylon the Great points to something far more expansive—a global economic system that dominates and corrupts nations.
1. Babylon’s Global Influence
Revelation 17:1 describes the Harlot as sitting “on many waters,” which Revelation 17:15 clarifies as “peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.” This suggests a worldwide presence, something far beyond Jerusalem alone.
2. The Seven Mountains: A Symbol of Global Dominion
Just as Zion represents God’s Kingdom, His holy mountain, the seven mountains in Revelation 17 symbolize world powers that have governed the earth across history. These seven mountains also connect to seven continents, emphasizing Babylon’s worldwide reach—not just a single city like Jerusalem or Rome.
3. Economic Power & Global Trade
Revelation 18:11-19 describes merchants mourning Babylon’s fall because their commerce collapses. This aligns with a worldwide economic structure, not just the destruction of one city. Jerusalem, even at its height, never held such global commercial dominance.
4. The Kings of the Earth & Babylon’s Corruption
Revelation 17:2 states that “the kings of the earth committed adultery with her” and were “intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.” This implies a system that seduces nations through wealth, commerce, and materialism—a description that fits the modern world economy far better than Jerusalem.
5. Babylon’s Sudden & Final Destruction
Revelation 18:8 states that Babylon will be “destroyed in one hour”—a sudden collapse that suggests a financial or economic catastrophe, rather than the gradual fall of a single city.
Conclusion: Babylon as the Global Economic System
While Jerusalem has played a role in biblical prophecy, the economic and political reach described in Revelation fits a global empire much better. Babylon the Great represents the corrupt financial and commercial empire that dominates the world, leading nations into materialism and spiritual decay.
In contrast to the Holy Mountain of Zion, which represents God’s Kingdom, Babylon’s seven mountains depict the vast, interconnected world system that governs the economies of nations. It is not just a single city—but the global financial structure that will face divine judgment.
Would love to hear your thoughts on this perspective!