Posts by Nicholaus Kopernicus

6

IMITATE JESUS REGIONAL CONVENTION - BRIGHTON IN WEST SUSSEX (UK)

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

imitate jesus, not the phariseesbe reasonableyoung speaker (early to mid 30's) gave this item in brighton.speaker cited luke 12:1 - guard against the leven (yeast - niv) of the pharisees.

went on to cite psalm 103:14 as an example of god's reasonableness in that he "remembers we are dust" and is thus merciful.

showed video portrayal of the haemorrhaging woman who touched jesus' clothing.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

I think the number given was 32 - not many. But I'm sure the British branch will put the best gloss on the numbers when the convention season is over.

9

IMITATE JESUS REGIONAL CONVENTION - BRIGHTON, WEST SUSSEX (UK)

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

train, trust, and empower others, as jesus does (luke 8:1; 9:1; 10:1)speaker opened by stating that there was a need for "harvest workers" and "shepherds" as the worldwide membership of jehovah's witnesses is now 8.2 million.

he then went on to state how jesus willingly gave responsibillity to others and that this pattern would be considered further.he briefly examined...john 1:3 - jesus' role in creationisaiah 50:4 - prophecy regarding the messiahisaiah 50:5 - schooling of the messiah2 tim 2:2 - timothy urged to entrust responsibilities to "faithful men".speaker stated that jesus trained, trusted and empowered his followers.

he cited luke 8:1 as an example of how jesus accomplished such training.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Train, Trust, and Empower Others, as Jesus Does (Luke 8:1; 9:1; 10:1)

Speaker opened by stating that there was a need for "harvest workers" and "shepherds" as the worldwide membership of Jehovah's Witnesses is now 8.2 million. He then went on to state how Jesus willingly gave responsibillity to others and that this pattern would be considered further.

He briefly examined...John 1:3 - Jesus' role in creationIsaiah 50:4 - prophecy regarding the MessiahIsaiah 50:5 - schooling of the Messiah2 Tim 2:2 - Timothy urged to entrust responsibilities to "faithful men".

Speaker stated that Jesus trained, trusted and empowered his followers. He cited Luke 8:1 as an example of how Jesus accomplished such training. He then went on to say that there is "a tremendous need" for elders due to the increase in numbers of Jehovah's people.

He cited Luke 10:1 as exemplary of Jesus having selected 72 persons in twos ahead of Him. He also referenced verse 16 as evidence of Jesus' delegation of authority. He emphasised: "Jesus was not a micro-manager." The delegation was to be accompanied by tooling, the speaker said. He claimed that Jesus has delegated authority and the preaching work to the faithful and discreet slave. For this assertion though, the speaker offered no scriptural authority and it was not difficult for me to determine why this omission was so.

Of course, many elders that I know are deeply insecure and given to heavy projection of their inadequacies onto listeners such that they are responsible for the poor meeting attedance which they so disdain! Such insecure individuals have genuine difficulty in empowering others as the speaker suggests. Rather, many elders would see the empowering of others as very threatening. They could end up inadvertently appointing someone who would then be discerned as competitive and undermining.

Further, I noted that the sole reason given for there being a "tremendous" need for elders was the increase in numbers of "Jehovah's people". Again, I noted that other reasons were avoided - such as those who are repelled by the position and step down so to speak, as well as those who are marginalised for being human beings rather than yielding to the will of the GB in all matters. I sat there thinking of the November 2011 WT (one burned into my psyche) which states: "Of course, a brother does not have to be a ministerial servant or an elder in order to help others and have a full share in the ministry." What a rear and true statement from this magazine! A fleeting sinew of candour! I used this quote as a gentle reposte to those of an inquisitive disposition who asked why I was not reaching out. In any case, who would want to jeopardise their mental health by getting closer to the very ones who actually do micro-manage, who bully, who fault find, who tear down, and who portray a corporate productivity paradigm of ministry hours rather than Jesus paradigm of a load which is light and refreshing. Their paucity of elders is sure to continue!

2

IMITATE JESUS RC - BRIGHTON, WEST SUSSEX (UK)

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

follow jesus, but not "at a distance" (luke 22:54).

speaker opened with matt 26:57-58 stressing "fear of man" which led peter to follow at a distance after jesus was arrested.

the speaker compared this with peter's earlier stated confidence in verses 33 & 35. speaker then moved on to 1 peter 2:21 as evidence that it is jesus' example which is to be followed.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Follow Jesus, But Not "at a Distance" (Luke 22:54)

Speaker opened with Matt 26:57-58 stressing "fear of man" which led Peter to follow at a distance after Jesus was arrested. The speaker compared this with Peter's earlier stated confidence in verses 33 & 35. Speaker then moved on to 1 Peter 2:21 as evidence that it is Jesus' exampLe which is to be followed. Cited Proverbs 29:25 - fear of man is likened to a snare.

The emphasis was then moved on to Joseph of Arimithea. Speaker cited John 19:38 - "Now after these things, Joseph of Ar·i·ma·theʹa, who was a disciple of Jesus but a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate if he could take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body away." (NWT - 2013). However the NIV puts it more accurately: "Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away."What the speaker said next left me aghast as he then alleged that Joseph of Arimithea was "ashamed of Jesus"! What a judgemental fellow! Nowhere in scripture is Joseph of Arimithea deprecated so! Nowhere! I don't know if this slander is solely on the part of the speaker or is it in the manuscript and thus attributable to the GB too! Regardless, such a statement is eggregious. Joseph of Arimithea was merely being cautious due to the arrogance of the Pharisees, just like many folks in this organisation today are similarly cautious with the 21st century pharisaical GB and their temple police (branches, and appointed men).

Matt 5:14-16 - light of the world

Matt 10:32-34 - duty of acknowledgement

John 5:17 - Jesus & his Father working continuously

The latter scripture was used to guilt trip individuals as the speaker stated that individuals were "following Jesus at a distance" if they were "not reaching out". He deepened the guilt trip by citing Matt 12:30 to infer that brothers not reaching out were therefore abstaining from the gathering work and thus actually scattering. Well, I have relinquished all my "privileges" as my conscience prevents me supporting this organisation practically or financially! This talk has confirmed my decision as entirely correct and confirmed that it will remain that way!

6

IMITATE JESUS REGIONAL CONVENTION - BRIGHTON IN WEST SUSSEX (UK)

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

imitate jesus, not the phariseesbe reasonableyoung speaker (early to mid 30's) gave this item in brighton.speaker cited luke 12:1 - guard against the leven (yeast - niv) of the pharisees.

went on to cite psalm 103:14 as an example of god's reasonableness in that he "remembers we are dust" and is thus merciful.

showed video portrayal of the haemorrhaging woman who touched jesus' clothing.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Imitate Jesus, Not the PhariseesBe Reasonable
Young speaker (early to mid 30's) gave this item in Brighton.

Speaker cited Luke 12:1 - guard against the leven (yeast - NIV) of the Pharisees. Went on to cite Psalm 103:14 as an example of God's reasonableness in that he "remembers we are dust" and is thus merciful. Showed video portrayal of the haemorrhaging woman who touched Jesus' clothing. The application the speaker made is that Jesus ignored the woman was breaking the Mosaic law as she was "unclean". Jesus responded to her faith and affirmed her whereas the Pharisees would have been outraged.

The speaker then went on to cite Matthew 23:23 - "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you give the tenth of the mint and the dill and the cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice and mercy and faithfulness. These things it was necessary to do, yet not to disregard the other things." The speaker then stated: "We want to stay away from their example", but rather focus on peoples' strengths. He concluded that Jesus' counsel was directed at those taking the lead and elders should be careful not to make rules such as "white shirts" only scenarios.

This young speaker seemed genuine enough. He has probably been on the receiving end of Pharisaical tendencies himself. If anything, what he was putting across was an understatement. Whilst it was nice to hear him focus on those "taking the lead" and thus gently alluding to their culpability, nevertheless there is a considerable conundrum implicit in the situation. The GB does not openly acknowledge that the behavioural profile of elders per se, is a significant contribution to many departing the organisation into inactivity / cessation. Yet here we have the most gentle tap on the wrist to those (many) elders who bully the sheep. At the same time, those (many) elders who are bullies become such because of the constant (and I would say nihilistic) influence of the GB and its branches.

For example if you actively or passively smoke, your health will eventually suffer. If you over use alcohol your health will eventually suffer. Similarly, if you constantly expose your mind to negative psychosocial influences, then you begin to absorb those influences and these become manifest in your behaviour, thinking, and how you relate to others. That is perhaps part of the reason why many in congregations see individuals change (for the worse) some time after they are apponted as elders. So the hope that a gentle talk such as this one can salvage the situation is without foundation. In all likelihood, many elders will continue to behave as did the temple police who served the Pharisees in the first century. After all, in this organisation, there is an absence of the candour which one discerns in the Bible. The sole coping strategy tends to that of denial and scape goating. No acknowledgement of wrong. No reaching out to to the sheep to see who things could be improved. No listening. No, behaviour is in the manner of Pharoah - "So let it be written! So let it be done! Thus, things will continue to deteriorate. There will likely continue to be more rules made and not less; more temple police and fewer shepherds. There will also be more who continue to depart this organisation too!
Attendance announced as 9,058. Many many unoccupied seats.

2

Is it really True Worship?

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

the governing body of jehovah's witnesses have described kingdom halls variously as "places of worship", as "center(s) for true worship" and as "house(s) of worship" to name but a few.

indeed, note that in one such description the governing body is so proud of what it has established that it elevates its paradigm of worship to that of "true worship"!

" it is used of an act of homage or reverence (a) to god, e.g., matt.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses have described Kingdom Halls variously as "places of worship", as "center(s) for true worship" and as "house(s) of worship" to name but a few. Indeed, note that in one such description the Governing Body is so proud of what it has established that it elevates its paradigm of worship to that of "true worship"!

For example.... ws15 7/15 pp. 22-26 Title: "This Is Our Place of Worship""A Kingdom Hall is not “the house of Jehovah” in the same way the temple in Jerusalem was. (2 Chronicles 5:13; 33:4) But we should have deep respect for our places of worship."

w02 5/15 pp. 8-11 Title: "Phenomenal Increase Necessitates Quick Expansion""The local Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses fills a great need as a center for true worship in the community."

w10 5/1 p. 31 Title: "Our Readers Ask . . . What is a Kingdom Hall?""A Kingdom Hall is a house of worship used by Jehovah’s Witnesses for their religious services."

In that the above is published and claimed by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses, a look at what the Bible says of worship is very much worthy of examination and some verses are cited below from Vine's Expository Dictionary. An examination of the Bible using such a scholarly and independent text will help in determining whether the Governing Body's claim of "true worship" is meritricious or meritorious.

If you are studying with Jehovah's Witnesses, you will be regularly "encouraged" to attend the local Kingdom Hall. If you do decide to attend, note what actually takes place during the meeting (and extolled as "true worship") compared with how the Bible describes worship (reverence, homage, awe, devotion, serve, honour religiously, religious homage (according to Vines expository dictionary).

Note too how extensive reference is made to items of literature published by the "Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses" and how little attention is paid to the Bible. For example, several years ago, it was common for a Brother to give a Bible dissertation involving an introduction, actual reading of a segment of the Bible, and then a concluding summary (usually application). Time allowed for this was 5 minutes. Then the introduction and conclusion (Brothers' composed such) was eliminated in favour of Bible reading only with the time curtailed to 4 minutes. As of this year, the time has been reduced further to a mere 3 minutes! Similarly an item called "Bible Highlights" given by a Ministerial Servant or Elder has had its time curtailed from 10 minutes to 8 minutes! Even before the time allowances were curtailed, the duration of time given to the Bible could hardly be regared as anything remotely deserving.

If you attend a "Watchtower Study" at the weekend, note how the "study" conductor draws a surprising amount of attention to any artwork / photos in the magazine and which is usually inconsequential. Watch out too for scriptures being referenced out of context (contrary to study 22 [Scriptures correctly applied] of the JW public speaking manual). Pay attention to the quality of what is being said. Is the meeting truly erudite or edifying? Is it perhaps banal; even soporific? In your heart of hearts, did you enjoy the meeting or endure it?

There is published guidance about Bible reading / study by the "Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses" aka Governing Body. For example..... "The help of God’s spirit is necessary for real discernment and understanding of God’s Word. (1Co 2:9-16) To get understanding and other benefits, a person must approach the reading of God’s Word with an open mind, throwing aside all prejudice and preconceived opinions; otherwise his understanding will be veiled... (2Co 3:14-16) Superficial reading is not enough. The reader must put his heart into it, be absorbed in study of the material, meditate deeply upon it, and seek to benefit from it personally.—Pr 15:28; 1Ti 4:13-16; Mt 24:15" (Insight Vol. II pages 754-755). This is rather a pleasant statement of guidance. The remarkable thing is that this published guidance is largely ignored as affiliates of congregations tend to consider the Bible only via the vignette of the Governing Body's publications and this leadership expects this both de facto and de jure. Such an approach is hardly exemplary of an "open mind, throwing aside all prejudice and preconceived opinions"! More structured guidance about Bible reading / study has been around for many many years and is known as lectio divina or spiritual reading. Never mentioned in my 20 years and more of Kingdom Hall attendances! The meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses are not designed or structured in keeping with the aforemetioned guidance! Not al all!

Now to the subject of worship as used in the Bible.....
VINE'S EXPOSITORY DICTIONARY
1. Proskuneo (verb) - "to make obeisance, do reverence to" (from pros, "towards," and kuneo, "to kiss"), is the most frequent word rendered "to worship."
It is used of an act of homage or reverence (a) to God, e.g., Matt. 4:10; John 4:21-24; 1 Cor. 14:25; Rev. 4:10; 5:14; 7:11; 11:16; 19:10(b) to Christ, e.g., Matt. 2:2,8,11; 8:2; 9:18; 14:33; 15:25; 20:20; 28:9,17; John 9:38; Heb. 1:6, in a quotation from the Sept. of Deut. 32:43, referring to Christ's Second Advent;

2. Sebomai (verb)"to revere," stressing the feeling of awe or devotion, is used of "worship" (a) to God, Matt. 15:9; Mark 7:7; Acts 16:14; 18:7,13

3. Sebazomai (verb)akin to No. 2, "to honor religiously," is used in Rom. 1:25.

4. Latreuo (verb)"to serve, to render religious service or homage," is translated "to worship" in Phil. 3:3, "(who) worship (by the Spirit of God)," RV, AV, "(which) worship (God in the spirit);" the RV renders it "to serve" (for AV, "to worship") in Acts 7:42; 24:14; AV and RV, "(the) worshipers" in Heb. 10:2, present participle, lit., "(the ones) worshiping."

5. Eusebeo (verb)"to act piously towards," is translated "ye worship" in Acts 17:23.

SOME QUESTIONS TO ASK OF YOURSELF

Which of the above Biblical descriptions of worship have I seen at the Kingdom Hall?
Is the Governing Body's description of Kingdom Hall's as"places of worship", as "center(s) for true worship" and as "house(s) of worship" consistent with the Bible's description of "worship"?
The Governing Body sometimes cites the authority of Vine's Expository Dictionary. Therefore, is what I experienced at the Kingdom Hall consistent with any of Vine's definitions of the word "worship" in its varoius Biblical contexts? (i.e. reverence, homage, awe, devotion, serve, honour religiously, religious homage)
Did I "enjoy" the meeting or "endure" the meeting?
When I attended the Kingdom Hall, was it literature published by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses which was considered / emphasised, or was it the Bible?
Was I really happy with the amount of time being given to consideration of the Bible?

[This essay was put together by an individual who was baptized as a Jehovah's Witness over 20 years ago but who now only describes himself as a Christian in keeping with scripture ("...and it was first in Antioch that the disciples were by divine providence called Christians." Acts 11:26 - New World Translation) and which attendance at meetings is now significantly attenuated by choice.]

2

Replicating the Kadesh incident in the 21st century.

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

watchtower study magazine of march 15th 2015study title: "loyally supporting christs brothers"paragraph 17. .

"the growing number of prospective sheep count it a privilege to support christs brothers not only in the preaching work but also in other practical ways.

for example, they give financial contributions and help to build kingdom halls, assembly halls, and branch facilities, and they loyally obey those appointed by the faithful and discreet slave to take the lead.matt.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Addendum as did not upload on first attempt:

If you are studying with Jehovah's Witnesses, note how little mention is made of the "faithful and discreet slave" in the text for study which precedes baptism (What Does the Bible Really Teach) compared with the study Watchtower magazine's preoccupation with their status. Remember too that whilst the public Watchtower has maintained its statement of purpose, a similar but more detailed statement of purpose was withdrawn without explanation in January 2013. So the study edition of the Watchtoweer no longer claims that it "promotes faith in Jesus Christ." and it no longer claims that it "adheres to the Bible as its authority." Reflect on that before you give any committments during a Bible study with JWs.

2

Replicating the Kadesh incident in the 21st century.

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

watchtower study magazine of march 15th 2015study title: "loyally supporting christs brothers"paragraph 17. .

"the growing number of prospective sheep count it a privilege to support christs brothers not only in the preaching work but also in other practical ways.

for example, they give financial contributions and help to build kingdom halls, assembly halls, and branch facilities, and they loyally obey those appointed by the faithful and discreet slave to take the lead.matt.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Watchtower Study Magazine of March 15th 2015
Study Title: "Loyally Supporting Christ’s Brothers"Paragraph 17

"The growing number of prospective sheep count it a privilege to support Christ’s brothers not only in the preaching work but also in other practical ways. For example, they give financial contributions and help to build Kingdom Halls, Assembly Halls, and branch facilities, and they loyally obey those appointed by “the faithful and discreet slave” to take the lead.—Matt. 24:45-47; Heb. 13:17"

1. For a discussion regarding the misuse and overuse of "privelege" see...http://perimeno.ca/Are_We_Privileged.htm

2. Regarding the supercillious use of the term "prospective sheep", God's Word states...."I am the fine shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me" - John 10:14 (RNWT)Thus Jesus sheep know that they are just that - sheep, and also know their Shepherd. This being diluted to "prospective" sheep is more of a statement on the part of the author (arrogance) than a statement about the actual sheep in discussion.

Similarly, John 10:27 states: "My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." Thus, Jesus at no time suggested that his sheep follow an intermediary such as the alleged "faithful and discreet slave" cited in the above magazine.

Whatever the case, Moses' failure to acknowledge and give credit to Almighty God whilst drawing the water from a rock in Kadesh was a signifcant but momentary lapse. However, this "faithful and discreet slave" entity cannot excuse themselves in that their lapse is enduring rather than momentary and which lapse they do not acknowledge nor seek to correct in any way.

32

How to Block an Interrogation by J.W's

by The Searcher in

"don't you believe that this is god's spirit-directed organization?".

"do you believe that god is teaching us through the faithful & discreet slave?

"who else has the truth?

Nicholaus Kopernicus

THIS IS A SUBJECT WHICH HAS BEEN OF CONCERN TO ME FOR SOME TIME. I FOUND THE FOLLOWING TO BE VERY HELPFUL AND PUBLISHED BY MELETI VIVLON IN HIS BLOG - "BEROEAN PICKETS" IN OCTOBER 2014

How Jesus Deal with Loaded Questions

A loaded question is not asked to gain greater understanding and wisdom, but rather to ensnare a victim.

Since we are called to be “sharers in the sufferings of the Christ”, we can learn from his example in dealing with the wolves that used such questions to trap him. First, we need to adopt his mental attitude. Jesus did not allow these opposers to make him feel defensive, as if he were the one in the wrong, the one needing to justify his actions. Like him, we should be “innocent as doves”. An innocent person is not aware of any wrongdoing. He cannot be made to feel guilty because he is innocent. Therefore, there is no reason for him to act defensively. He will not play into the hands of opposers by giving a direct answer to their loaded questions. That is where being as “cautious as serpents” comes in.

Here is but one example for our consideration and instruction.

“Now after he went into the temple, the chief priests and the older men of the people came up to him while he was teaching and said: “By what authority do you do these things? And who gave you this authority?”” (Mt 21:23 NWT)

They believed Jesus was acting presumptuously because they had been appointed by God to rule the nation, so by what authority did this upstart presume to take their place?

Jesus answered with a question.

“I, also, will ask YOU one thing. If YOU tell it to me, I also will tell YOU by what authority I do these things: 25 The baptism by John, from what source was it? From heaven or from men?” (Mt 21:24, 25 NWT)

This question put them in a difficult situation. If they said from heaven, they could not deny Jesus’ authority also came from heaven since his works were greater than John’s. Yet, if they said “from men”, they had the crowd to worry about for they all held John to be a prophet. So they chose to be nonresponsive by answering, “We do not know.”

To which Jesus replied, “Neither am I telling YOU by what authority I do these things.” (Mt. 21:25-27 NWT)

They believed their position of authority granted them the right to ask probing questions of Jesus. It did not. He refused to answer.

Applying the Lesson Jesus Taught

How should you respond if two elders were to pull you aside to ask you a loaded questions like:

“Do you believe Jehovah is using the Governing Body to direct his people?”
or
“Do you accept that the Governing Body is the Faithful Slave?”
or
“Do you think you know more than the Governing Body?”

These questions are not asked because the elders are seeking enlightenment. They are loaded and as such are much like a grenade with the pin pulled out. You can fall on it, or you can toss it back to them by asking something like, “Why are you asking me this?”

Perhaps they’ve heard something. Perhaps someone has gossiped about you. Based on the principle of 1 Timothy 5:19,[i] they need two or more witnesses. If they have only hearsay and no witnesses, then they are wrong to even question you. Point out to them that they are breaking a direct command of God’s word. If they persist in asking, you can respond that it would be wrong to enable them in a course of sin by answering questions they have been told by God not to ask, and again refer to 1 Timothy 5:19.

They will likely counter that they just wanted to get your side of the story, or hear your opinion before proceeding. Do not be seduced into giving it. Instead, tell them that your opinion is that they need to follow the direction of the Bible as found at 1 Timothy 5:19. They may very well get upset with you for continuing to go back to that well, but what of it? That means they are getting upset with direction from God.

Avoid Foolish and Ignorant Questionings

We cannot plan a response for every potential question. There are just too many possibilities. What we can do is train ourselves to follow a principle. We can never go wrong by obeying a command of our Lord. The Bible says to avoid “foolish and ignorant questionings, knowing they produce fights”, and promoting the idea that the Governing Body speaks for God is both foolish and ignorant. (2 Tim. 2:23) So if they ask us a loaded question, we do not argue, but ask them for justification.

To provide an example:

Elder: “Do you believe the Governing Body is the faithful and discreet slave?”

You: “Do you?”

Elder: “Of course, but I want to know what you think?”

You: “Why do you believe they are the faithful slave?”

Elder: “So you’re saying you don’t believe it?”

You: “Please don’t put words in my mouth. Why do you believe that the Governing Body is the faithful and discreet slave?”

Elder: “You know as well as I do?”

You: “Why do you deflect my question? Never mind, this discussion is becoming unpleasant and I think we should put an end to it.”

At this point, you stand up and start to leave.

The Abuse of Authority

You may fear that by not answering their questions, they will just go ahead and disfellowship you anyway. That is always a possibility, though they need to provide justification for it or they will look very foolish when the appeal committee reviews the case, since you will have given them no evidence on which to base their decision. Nevertheless, they can still abuse their authority and do as they wish. The only sure way to avoid disfellowshipping is to compromise your integrity and admit that the unscriptural teachings you have a problem with are really true after all. Bending the knee in submission is what these men are really seeking from you.

18th Century Scholar Bishop Benjamin Hoadley said:
“Authority is the greatest and most irreconcilable enemy to truth and argument that this world ever furnished. All the sophistry–all the color of plausibility–the artifice and cunning of the subtlest disputer in the world may be laid open and turned to the advantage of that very truth which they are designed to hide; but against authority there is no defence.”

Fortunately, the ultimate authority lies with Jehovah and those who abuse their authority will one day answer to God for it.

In the meantime, we must not give way to fear.

Silence is Golden

What if the matter escalates? What if a friend betrays you by revealing a confidential discussion. What if the elders imitate the Jewish leaders who arrested Jesus and take you into a secret meeting. Like Jesus, you may find yourself all alone. No one will be allowed to witness the proceedings even if you request it. No friends or family will be allowed to accompany you for support. You will be badgered with questions. Often, hearsay testimony will be taken as evidence. This is a common circumstance and is eerily like what our Lord experienced on his last night.

The Jewish leaders condemned Jesus for blasphemy, though no man has ever been less guilty of that charge. Their modern day counterparts will try to charge you with apostasy. This will be a travesty of law, of course, but they need something to hang their legal hat on.

In such a situation, we should not make their lives easier.

In the same situation, Jesus refused to answer their questions. He gave them nothing. He was following his own counsel.

“Do not give what is holy to dogs, neither throw YOUR pearls before swine, that they may never trample them under their feet and turn around and rip YOU open.” (Mt 7:6 NWT)

It may seem shocking and even insulting to suggest that this scripture could apply to a committee hearing within the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, but the results of many such encounters between elders and truth-seeking Christians demonstrates this to be an accurate application of these words. He surely had in mind the Pharisees and Sadducees when he gave his disciples this warning. Remember that members of each of those groups were Jews, and therefore fellow servants of Jehovah God.

If we throw our pearls of wisdom before such men, they will not prize them, they will trample upon them, then turn on us. We hear accounts of Christians who try to reason from the Scriptures with a judicial committee, but the committee members will not even open the Bible to follow the reasoning. Jesus gave up his right to silence only at the very end, and this only so that the scripture might be fulfilled, for he had to die for the salvation of mankind. Truly, he was humiliated and justice was taken away from him. (Ac 8:33 NWT)

However, our situation differs somewhat from his. Our continued silence may be our only defense. If they have evidence, let them present it. If not, let us not give it to them on a silver platter. They have twisted God’s law so that disagreement with a teaching of men constitutes apostasy against God. Let this perversion of divine law be on their head.

It may well go against our nature to sit silently while being interrogated and falsely accused; to let the silence reach uncomfortable levels. Nevertheless, we must. Eventually, they will fill the silence and in doing so reveal their true motivation and heart condition. We must remain obedient to our Lord who told us not to throw pearls before swine. “Listen, obey and be blessed.” In these cases, silence is golden. You may reason that they cannot disfellowship a man for apostasy if he speaks the truth, but to men like this, apostasy means contradicting the Governing Body. Remember, these are men who have chosen to ignore plainly stated direction from God’s word and who have chosen to obey men over God. They are like the first century Sanhedrin who acknowledged that a notable sign had occurred through the apostles, but ignored its implications and chose to persecute the children of God instead. (Ac 4:16, 17)

Beware of Disassociation

The elders fear someone who can use the Bible to overturn our false teachings. They view such an individual as a corrupting influence and a threat to their authority. Even if the individuals are not actively associating with the congregation, they are still seen as a threat. So they may drop by “to encourage” and during the discussion ask innocently whether you wish to continue to associate with the congregation. If you say no, you give them the authority to read out a letter of disassociation in the Kingdom hall. This is disfellowshipping by another name.

Years back we risked serious legal repercussions for disfellowshipping individuals who joined the military or voted. So we came up with a slight-of-hand solution we called “disassociation”. Our answer if asked was that we don’t threaten people from exercising their legal right to vote or defend their country by any punitive action such as disfellowshipping. However, if they choose to leave on their own, that is their decision. They have disassociated themselves by their actions, but they were not—absolutely not—disfellowshipped. Of course, we all knew (“nudge, nudge, wink, wink”) that disassociation was exactly the same thing as disfellowshipping.

In the 1980s we began to use the unscriptural designation “disassociated” as a weapon against sincere Christians who were recognizing that God’s word was being misapplied and twisted. There have been cases where individuals wishing to quietly fade away but not lose all contact with family members have moved to another city, not giving their forwarding address to the congregation. These ones have nevertheless been tracked down, visited by the local elders and asked the loaded question, “Do you still wish to associate with the congregation?” By answering no, a letter could then be read out to all congregation members branding them with the official status of “disassociated” and thus they could be treated exactly as disfellowshipped ones.

5

CHRISTIAN BY DIVINE PROVIDENCE

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

the following information looks at the use of the descriptor "christian" and "jehovah's witness".

reference is made to information published by the wtbts, as is information in wikipedia.

a discussion ensues at the end.. insight vol i - christianpublished in 1988the latinized greek term khristianos, found only three times in the christian greek scriptures, designates followers of christ jesus, the exponents of christianity.ac 11:26; 26:28; 1pe 4:16.it was first in antioch [syria] that the disciples were by divine providence called christians.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

The following information looks at the use of the descriptor "Christian" and "Jehovah's Witness". Reference is made to information published by the WTBTS, as is information in Wikipedia. A discussion ensues at the end.

Insight Vol I - ChristianPublished in 1988
The Latinized Greek term Khri·sti·a·nos′, found only three times in the Christian Greek Scriptures, designates followers of Christ Jesus, the exponents of Christianity.—Ac 11:26; 26:28; 1Pe 4:16.

“It was first in Antioch [Syria] that the disciples were by divine providence called Christians.” (Ac 11:26) It is possible, then, that this name was used as early as the year 44 C.E. when the events surrounding this text occurred, although the grammatical structure of this phrase does not necessarily make it so; some think it was a little later. At any rate, by about 58 C.E., in the city of Caesarea, the term was well known and used even by public officials, for at that time King Herod Agrippa II said to Paul: “In a short time you would persuade me to become a Christian.”—Ac 26:28.

Bible writers in addressing fellow believers or describing followers of Christ used expressions such as “believers in the Lord,” “brothers” and “disciples” (Ac 5:14; 6:3; 15:10), “chosen ones” and “faithful ones” (Col 3:12; 1Ti 4:12), “slaves to God” and “slaves of Christ Jesus” (Ro 6:22; Php 1:1), “holy ones,” “congregation of God,” and “those who call upon the Lord.” (Ac 9:13; 20:28; 1Co 1:2; 2Ti 2:22) These terms with doctrinal meaning were used primarily as internal congregational designations. To outsiders Christianity was referred to as “The Way” (Ac 9:2; 19:9, 23; 22:4), and opponents called it “the sect of the Nazarenes” or just “this sect.”—Ac 24:5; 28:22.

It was first in Syrian Antioch that Christ’s followers became known as Christians. It is most unlikely that the Jews first styled Jesus’ followers “Christians” (Greek) or “Messianists” (Hebrew), for they would not reject Jesus as being the Messiah, or Christ, and then tacitly recognize him as the Anointed One, or Christ, by stamping his followers “Christians.” Some think the heathen population may have nicknamed them Christians out of jest or scorn, but the Bible shows that it was a God-given name; they “were by divine providence called Christians.”—Acts 11:26.

The Greek verb khre·ma·ti′zo (χρηματίσαι - "style divinely" in Kingdom Interlinear) in this text is generally rendered simply “were called,” and that is what is done at Acts 11:26 in most translations. However, there are translations that indicate that God had something to do with selecting the name ‘Christian.’ Noteworthy in this regard are the New World Translation, Young’s Literal Translation, and The Simple English Bible. Young’s reads: “The disciples also were divinely called first in Antioch Christians.”

The Greek word khre·ma·ti′zo as used in the Christian Greek Scriptures is always associated with something supernatural, oracular, or divine.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, in its Greek dictionary (1890, p. 78), defines it as “to utter an oracle . . . i.e. divinely intimate.”
Edward Robinson’s Greek and English Lexicon (1885, p. 786) gives the meaning: “Spoken in respect to a divine response, oracle, declaration, to give response, to speak as an oracle, to warn from God.”
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (1889, p. 671): “to give a divine command or admonition, to teach from heaven . . . to be divinely commanded, admonished, instructed . . . to be the mouthpiece of divine revelations, to promulge the commands of God.”
Thomas Scott in his Explanatory Notes on this text (1832, Vol. III, p. 419) says: “The word implies that this was done by divine revelation: for it has generally this signification in the New Testament, and is rendered ‘warned from God’ or ‘warned of God,’ even when there is no word for GOD in the Greek.”
Concerning Acts 11:26, Clarke’s Commentary says: “The word [khre·ma·ti′sai] in our common text, which we translate were called, signifies in the New Testament, to appoint, warn, or nominate, by Divine direction. In this sense, the word is used, Matt. ii. 12 . . . If, therefore, the name was given by Divine appointment, it is most likely that Saul and Barnabas were directed to give it; and that, therefore, the name Christian is from God.”—See Mt 2:12, 22; Lu 2:26; Ac 10:22; Ro 7:3, Int; Heb 8:5; 11:7; 12:25, where this Greek verb occurs.

Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's KingdomPublished in 1993
(Referring to the 1931 Convention in Columbus, Ohio)Chapter 7 - pages 79/82

"'You are my witnesses,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'and I am God.'" (Isa. 43:12). Starting in the 1920's, te Bible Students became increasingly aware of the deep significance of these words of the prophet Isaiah. Through the pages of The Watch Tower, attention was repeatedly drawn to our responsibility to bear witness to Jehovah's name and his Kingdom A milestone, though, was reached at a convention held in Columbus, Ohio, in 1931.

From one o'clock when the public discourse was finished, until four o'clock, when Brother Rutherford reentered the auditorium, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Brother Rutherford had specially requested that everyone who was really interested in the noonday warning to Christendom be in his seat at four o'clock.

Promptly at four, Brother Rutherford began by stating that he regarded what he was about to say as of vital importance to everyone who could hear his voice. His listeners were keenly interested. During his discourse he presented another resolution,, this one entitled "A New Name," which was climaxed by the declaration: "We desire to be known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovah's witnesses." The thrilled conventioners again jumped to their feet with the ringing shout "Aye!" They would henceforth be known as Jehovah's Witnesses!

Bearing Thorough Witness - Chapter 9Published in 2009
Sending “a Relief Ministration” (Acts 11:26b-30)

22 It was first in Antioch that “the disciples were by divine providence called Christians.” (Acts 11:26b) That God-approved name aptly describes those whose way of life is modeled on that of Christ.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Franklin_RutherfordHis early presidency was marked by a dispute with the Society's board of directors, in which four of its seven members accused him of autocratic behavior and sought to reduce his powers. The resulting leadership crisis divided the Bible Student community and contributed to the loss of one seventh of adherents by 1919 and thousands more by 1931. P.S.L. Johnson, The Present Truth and Herald of Christ's Epiphany, April 1927, p. 66: "Since the Fall of 1923 ... from 20,000 to 30,000 Truth people the world over have left the Society."

At a 1931 Bible Student assembly in Columbus, Ohio Rutherford proposed a new name for the organization, Jehovah's witnesses, to differentiate them from the proliferation of other groups that followed Russell's teachings.[92] Bible Students who opposed or abandoned Rutherford to form new groups were increasingly described as the "evil servant class" by The Watchtower, which said it was wrong to pray for those who were "unfaithful".

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah%27s_WitnessesThe name Jehovah's witnesses, based on Isaiah 43:10–12,[12] was adopted in 1931 to distinguish themselves from other Bible Student groups and symbolize a break with the legacy of Russell's traditions.

DISCUSSION

The translation of the Greek verb khre·ma·ti′zo as "by divine providence called" is unique to the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. It has been translated as such from the beginning (1953) up to and including the recent 2013 revision. An examination of translations via Biblegateway shows that they all translate khre·ma·ti′zo simply as "called" (except Young's).

The Insight Vol 1 does seem to ably augment the rationale for the NWT's rendition by having several evidentiary references (rare practice for the WTBTS). The Insight Volume was published in 1988 - over 25 years after the "divine providence" phrase was first used. The phrase "by divine providence called Christians" has been in print in the NWT for over 60 years now.More recently, the Bearing Thorough Witness text (published in 2009) briefly but eloquently states regarding Acts 11:26 - "That God-approved name aptly describes those whose way of life is modeled on that of Christ." This text thus affirms the use of the descriptor - Christian - as being divinely approved. Perhaps this is also a reflection of the fact that God's thoughts are higher than the thoughts of men (Isa. 55:8,9), including the thinking of a man which gave rise to the decision in 1931 in the first place.

When one examines the history behind the use of the descriptor "Jehovah's Witnesses" in the Proclaimers' book, there is a contrasting paucity of information in general, and evidentiary references in particular, concerning the reasons leading to the convention decision to adopt the aforementioned. This text states that "Through the pages of The Watch Tower, attention was repeatedly drawn to our responsibility to bear witness to Jehovah's name". No particular Watchtower magazines are either quoted or cited in order to underpin such a claim. Rather, Wikipedia alleges that the reason for the adoption of the descriptor was to "differentiate them from the proliferation of other groups that followed Russell's teachings ... and symbolize a break with the legacy of Russell's traditions". It also alludes to the need of Rutherford to stem the exodus of people from the organisation following the leadership schisms.

Institutional politicing rather than spiritual yearning\growth\light may have been the rationale for the adoption of the JW descriptor. The authority for this adoption is weak in that the Proclaimer's book focuses solely on the Columbus Ohio convention of 1931 and does not mention any other conventions at other venues where there was such enthusiastic "Aye(s)" for this decision. Thus, a far reaching decision was made by one gathering in 1931 and which has had very significant impact upon 7 to 8 million folks today. There is no recorded discussion of the choice in 1931 needing to be reviewed when the NWT was published with it's rendering of Acts 11:26 in the early 60's.

IMPACT OF THIS SHORT STUDY.....

The apostle Paul was the beneficiary of a direct post resurrection communication from Jesus. Jesus explained to Ananias that Paul was chosen to "...make my name known to Gentiles and kings and to the people of Israel" (Acts 9:15 - TEV). This is clear evidence that Jesus' name was to be known to his followers. Subsequently, Paul was inspired to write that "... in honour of the name of Jesus all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will fall on their knees, and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Php. 2:10,11 TEV). Thus, it can be reasoned that by being known by the descriptor "Christian", first, foremost, and only, we are demonstrating our convergence with scripture on the one hand, and on the other hand, placing the decisions of man and his institutions much lower down the ladder of priorities.

"There is one God and one Mediator between God and us - the man Jesus, God's Anointed, who gave His life as a ransom for all so that we might have freedom." (1 Tim. 2:5,6 - The Voice Translation). Therefore, an individual may discern a need to identify with Jesus the Mediator and seek every opportunity to avoid being a follower of men by acquiescing with the tendency of the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses to glorify THEMSELVES rather than be be discreet and slave like. This self glorification is escalating gradually in that they are increasingly exploiting technology to reach into congregations directly and show themselves on marketing objects for "Regional" conventions. They are determined that we know who they are and the authority they have. (In reality, a genuine slave only has authority to serve, not to subordinate).

"Let us not lose sight of Jesus, who leads us in our faith and brings it to perfection..." (Heb. 12:2 - The Jerusalem Bible). This is put beautifully in this translation. Thus, why would an individual defer to the strong personality of a leader in the 1930's regarding the adoption of a descriptor / title or similarly obdurate collective human leadership today when Jesus is taking the lead?

In reviewing this history, I have resolved to refer to myself as a Christian only. In so doing, I would reason that I am honouring the Father via honouring his Son (John 5:23). There is the authority of scripture behind such a decision. I do not have to describe myself as a Jehovah's Witness in order to continue to keep the Father's name sanctified. There's more to it than that. I will use Acts 11:26 and the information in the Bearing Thorough Witness text and the Insight volume to augment my decision. If individuals in positions of authority react adversely to this and seek to expel me, then that may be a millstone that they will have to wear round their necks. For me, I am free! "So if the Son sets you free, you will be truly free." (John 8:36 - NWT 2013 ed).

The decision reached in 1931 by attenders at the Columbus Ohio convention, was not repeated at other conventions that I can discern. Therefore, I cannot work out how the vote of such a minority so long ago, should qualify for continued legitimacy of adoption in 2015. I cannot find evidence that the decision then was from God (in reality from the strong personality of J. F. Rutherford) or democratic.

14

Watchtower Magazine - Statement of Purpose

by Nicholaus Kopernicus in

"the purpose of this magazine, the watchtower, is to honor jehovah god, the supreme ruler of the universe.

just as watchtowers in ancient times enabled a person to observe developments from afar, so this magazine shows us the significance of world events in the light of bible prophecies.

it comforts people with the good news that gods kingdom, which is a real government in heaven, will soon bring an end to all wickedness and transform the earth into a paradise.

Nicholaus Kopernicus

Thank you "The Searcher". I found that excerpt you reproduced of interest. I have no doubt that were the 1st Century Bereons (so copiously affirmed by the apostle Paul) to be around today, they would be roundly censured (disfellowshipped) by the GB and their agents.

Thank you too, "sowhatnow". Oh yes! Jesus is significantly marginalised in the literature produced by the GB. A case in point is the Feb 8th 2015 ESD text (from WT 2013 10/15) which quotes the first part of John 17:3 and goes on to extol knowing God and having a "close bond of love wth him [note the lower case] and fellow believers. Jesus is not mentioned in the discussion following this well known scripture. Yet John 5:23 states..... "...in order that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He that does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him." This is but one of many many divergencies from the now deleted SoP which purported to encourage faith in God's Anointed One. The recent study of the parables is another case in point. That the understanding portrayed from the scriptures cited is so erroneous plainly evidences that the magazine no longer adheres to the Bible as it's authority. The Bereon like reasoning on

http://meletivivlon.com/2015/02/08/wt-study-do-you-grasp-the-meaning/

evidences such rather nicely and

http://perimeno.ca/FoodforThought.htm

gives a nice discussion on the wheat and weads (parallel to the dragnet).

I remember when the OKM would encourage us to use the SoP as a presentation in the first call ministry. Even although a simpler SoP remains for the public WT, I have no recollection of the SoP being recommended as an introduction in recent years. Thus, even though it remains in that edition it's importance is being diminished.

No, the evidence really does point to the WT now being a scripturally wayward publication who's purpose seems to be that of putting across the perspectives and interpretations of the GB. In seeking to pursue such, they are giving evidence that they have forgotten the counsel of Romans 12:3... "... not to think of yourselves as being more important than you are..." [The Voice Translation].