Review of the March 2012 Watchtower Study Edition

In this review, I focus primarily on Romans 8 and a unique interpretation provided by the Watchtower as it relates to their "two class" theology.  I also discuss some other elements of interest in the same article.

You can watch the review HERE

You can listen to the review HERE

You can download the March 2012 Watchtower Study Edition HERE

On a side note, i'm very much considering doing a podcast in the near future.  The reason being, i'm realizing that far more people are out there who are just like me with little time to read and a lot of time to listen.  I've got the necessary equipment to do it, but my audio acoustics (as you can tell) are pretty awful in my current living situation.  But that is going to change soon, Lord willing (so long as my next place doesn't have hard wood floors and thin walls!).

Anyway, doing reviews of Watchtowers like this might make for a good podcast in addition to debates and dialogues. I'm just brainstorming out loud right now, so we'll see what happens.

Are the Watchtower's predictions "hollow?"

Sometimes I wonder if the Governing Body remembers their own history.  But then again, i've come to expect them to be less than honest, which is quite unfortunate.  Though there might be some who would love nothing more than to have a "gotcha" moment in pointing out yet another less-than-honest statement by the Governing Body, I would much rather them demonstrate some humility.

Given the recent false prediction by Harold Camping, I was actually hoping the Governing Body would leave this one alone.  Otherwise, it would not be the first time they have applied a double standard in accusing others of making false predictions that didn't come to pass.

However, in the February 1, 2011 Watchtower on p. 25, the leaders in Brooklyn had this to say,

First of all, this statement is not completely accurate regarding Camping's prediction.  Like the Watchtower's pre-1914 predictions, Camping's was based upon his faulty interpretation of the Scriptures.  And as far as I know, Camping didn't claim any type of non-biblical divine revelation that God had personally given to him.  In fact, any claims to authority Camping would have made could only pale in comparison to what the Watchtower had and continues to claim for themselves.  The point is, the reader of the Watchtower may have gotten the impression that Camping just made up everything or had some type of inspired revelation from God.

Second, the prediction made by Camping is described as "hollow."  I agree.  The problem is, where did the Watchtower ever describe their own predictions in this manner?  At the very least, did the Watchtower ever apologize for their false predictions which resulted in a severe disappointment for many?  Consider only a few,

“The year 1925 is a date definitely and clearly marked in the Scriptures, even more clearly than that of 1914.” –The Watchtower July 15, 1924 p. 211

“Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews chapter eleven, to the condition of human perfection.” –Millions Now Living will Never Die  1920, p. 90 

If you are a young person, you also need to face the fact that you will never grow old in this present system of things. Why not? Because all the evidence in fulfillment of Bible prophecy indicates that this corrupt system is due to end in a few years. -Awake! 1969 5/22 p. 15

Shortly, within our twentieth century, the “battle in the day of Jehovah” will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom. -The Nations Shall Know that I am Jehovah p. 216

The purpose of Awake! is stated clearly on page 4 of each issue: “This magazine builds confidence in the Creator’s promise of a peaceful and secure new world before the generation that saw the events of 1914 passes away.” Certainly such a magazine deserves as wide a distribution as possible in our house-to-house ministry! -Kingdom Ministry 10/93 p. 8

Could these false predictions be described as anything short of "hollow?"  If so, then where were they ever appropriately described as such?  If they weren't, then would such neglect be what one would expect from "God's organization?"

This is information that I would encourage some to share with their JW friends and family.  Do so with caution, humility, and love.  But never do so at the expense of the gospel and pointing to Christ as "the way, the truth, and the life." (John 14:6)  Remember, your goal is not to create an ex-JW, but a Christ follower.

2nd discussion with JW "Letusreason1234" on the eternal hope of Christians

Like our FIRST DISCUSSION, this one will continue along the same lines in contrasting the Jehovah's Witness view with what I believe to be the biblical view of all Christians living forever on the new earth.

You can watch the discussion HERE

You can listen to the discussion HERE

Discussion with a JW on the eternal hope of Christians

Recently, I had another discussion with a Jehovah's Witness on the eternal hope of Christians.  The Watchtower teaches that there will be a literal group of 144,000 anointed Jehovah's Witnesses who rule with Christ in heaven over the rest of Jehovah's Witnesses who will live on a paradise earth.  However, I believe in accordance with the Scriptures that all Christians will live forever on the new earth.

You can watch the interaction HERE

You can listen to the interaction HERE

Lord willing, we will be having more interactions like these in the near future.

Correcting a miscitation from my interaction with the JW

I finally got around to listening to the INTERACTION I had with the JW from the other day and was overall pleased with how it went.  I won't go into reviewing or offering much critique in this post as I would like the viewers to decide for themselves (at least for now anyway).

But I did notice a blunder I made at about 41:30 where I attempted a paraphrase of the following quote:

*** w57 5/1 p. 284 par. 14 Trust Your Proved, Faithful Brothers ***

Showing respect for Jehovah’s organization really resolves itself down to our attitude toward God’s visible channel and the trust that we place in our proved, faithful brothers. If we have become thoroughly convinced that this is Jehovah’s organization, that he is guiding and directing his people, then we shall not be unsettled by anything that happens. If something comes up that we do not understand we will wait patiently until it is made thoroughly clear to us. If we feel sure something is wrong we will ‘keep the commandment’ of our Father and take whatever theocratic steps are open to us and then wait on Jehovah. We will not ‘forsake our mother’s teaching’ by immediately beginning to criticize and find fault. We will realize that Jehovah knows what is going on in his organization, and if he is willing to permit it, who are we to insist it should be different? If we really have faith, we will know that if it is wrong he will straighten it out eventually, and we are far safer inside his organization even with these minor difficulties than we would be on the outside where only chaos and destruction await us.

What I paraphrased went something as follows: "If we come to believe that something the Watchtower teaches is false, then we should just believe what they say anyway."  Of course, the part in bold contradicts this and is consistent with what my JW friend said whereby one should keep quite about it and let Jehovah straighten it out.  While I think that there are still some significant theological and psychological disagreements that I have with the above, I didn't represent it accurately.

However, i'm kicking myself now because there is a quote that appears to be consistent with what I paraphrased that I wish I would have used:

*** w52 2/1 pp. 79-80 pars. 11-12 Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today ***

We must show our understanding in these matters, appreciating our relationship to the visible theocratic organization, remembering the fate of those like Korah and Achan and Saul and Uzziah and others who forgot the theocratic order. Are we assigned as individuals to bring forth the food for the spiritual table? No? Then let us not try to take over the slave’s duties. We should eat and digest and assimilate what is set before us, without shying away from parts of the food because it may not suit the fancy of our mental taste. The truths we are to publish are the ones provided through the discreet-slave organization, not some personal opinions contrary to what the slave has provided as timely food. Jehovah and Christ direct and correct the slave as needed, not we as individuals. If we do not see a point at first we should keep trying to grasp it, rather than opposing and rejecting it and presumptuously taking the position that we are more likely to be right than the discreet slave. We should meekly go along with the Lord’s theocratic organization and wait for further clarification, rather than balk at the first mention of a thought unpalatable to us and proceed to quibble and mouth our criticisms and opinions as though they were worth more than the slave’s provision of spiritual food. Theocratic ones will appreciate the Lord’s visible organization and not be so foolish as to pit against Jehovah’s channel their own human reasoning and sentiment and personal feelings. 

12 Now some may ask, Should we accept as from the Lord and true the food provided through the discreet slave, or should we withhold acceptance until we have proved it for ourselves? If we have gained our present understanding of the Bible by feeding at the table set by the slave, if we have been thereby freed from false doctrines and built up in the clean and undefiled worship of God and given a new world hope, we should have some confidence in the slave’s provisions. After being nourished to our present spiritual strength and maturity, do we suddenly become smarter than our former provider and forsake the enlightening guidance of the organization that mothered us? “Forsake not the law of thy mother.” (Prov. 6:20-23) And if the heavenly Father would not give a stone or serpent or scorpion to a child who asked for bread or fish or an egg from him, are we to take the spiritual food he provides through the slave into our hands as if we were going to be bruised by a stone or bitten by a serpent or stung by a scorpion? (Matt. 7:7-11; Luke 11:9-13, NW) Are we to be doubtful and suspicious about each new provision? “He who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven by the wind and blown about. In fact, let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from Jehovah.” (Jas. 1:6, 7, NW) Even the Beroeans first received Paul’s preaching “with the greatest readiness of mind”, and then went to “carefully examining the Scriptures daily as to whether these things were so”. (Acts 17:11, NW) This was the first real contact the Beroeans had with Paul’s preaching, yet they received it readily and then studied the Scriptural support for themselves. How much more readily we can receive the slave’s provisions with confidence, since, unlike the Beroeans, we have much past experience with the precious provisions from the slave. After receiving these food supplies we prove their Scripturalness for ourselves to make the message our own, in a spirit of meekness and trustfulness and not combativeness.

Its difficult not to underline nearly every sentence in this quotation because I think this well illustrates the point I was trying to make.  If a JW comes to question the correctness of something the WT teaches, what is he expected to do as a faithful JW? Hold silently to what he firmly believes as true?  No.  Instead, this one should "have some confidence in the slave's provisions," because we are not, "more likely to be right than the discreet slave."  Therefore, "we should meekly go along with the Lord's theocratic organization and wait for further clarification."

Unless i'm missing something, the faithful JW is expected to go along with what the WT teaches, even if it questionable or something we feel is incorrect.  After all, they're smarter than us, right?

Discussion with a Jehovah's Witness "WorldHistory2011" on Independent Thinking

Just last evening I had a most interesting encounter with a JW.  But this wasn't just any encounter; it was recorded.  It all started with the following comment on THIS VIDEO:

But was it a "complete lie?"  Though my comment in 2:25 of that video was made in passing (the subject of the video was something different), I backed up my claim by referencing the following Watchtower quotation:

*** km 9/07 p. 3 Question Box ***

Does “the faithful and discreet slave” endorse independent groups of Witnesses who meet together to engage in Scriptural research or debate?—Matt. 24:45, 47.

No, it does not. And yet, in various parts of the world, a few associates of our organization have formed groups to do independent research on Bible-related subjects. Some have pursued an independent group study of Biblical Hebrew and Greek so as to analyze the accuracy of the New World Translation. Others explore scientific subjects related to the Bible. They have created Web sites and chat rooms for the purpose of exchanging and debating their views. They have also held conferences and produced publications to present their findings and to supplement what is provided at our Christian meetings and through our literature... Thus, “the faithful and discreet slave” does not endorse any literature, meetings, or Web sites that are not produced or organized under its oversight. 

 What transpired was a 45 minute discussion with WorldHistory2011.

Go HERE to watch the encounter.

Go HERE to listen to the encounter.

The 144,000 rule over..."the Bible does not say," says the Watchtower

In the January 15, 2012 Watchtower Study Edition, p. 30 par. 18, the following is stated,

18 Thereafter, how will Jehovah use these highly privileged associates of Christ? According to Revelation 22:5, “they will rule as kings forever and ever.” Over whom? The Bible does not say. But the quality of life that they possess and their experience in helping a world of imperfect people will equip them to hold a regal position in Jehovah’s purposes forever.

I found this to be an noteworthy admission for several reasons.  But first, it must be emphasized that the above quote is not necessarily new, for the Watchtower has previously articulated a similar point,

*** re chap. 43 p. 313 par. 30 The Resplendent City ***

³⁰ John closes out this magnificent vision by saying of these slaves of God: “And they will rule as kings forever and ever.” (Revelation 22:5b) True, at the end of the thousand years, the benefits of the ransom will have been applied to completion, and Jesus will present a perfected human race to his Father. (1 Corinthians 15:25-28) What Jehovah has in mind for Jesus and the 144,000 after that, we do not know. But Revelation assures us that their privileged sacred service to Jehovah will continue into all eternity.

The reason I have found this to be noteworthy is because of a commonly used argument by Jehovah's Witnesses in defending the "two-class theology."  For example,

*** rs p. 79 Born Again ***

If Someone Says—

‘I’ve been born again’

You might reply: ‘That means that you expect someday to be with Christ in heaven, doesn’t it? . . . Have you ever wondered what those who go to heaven will do there?’ Then perhaps add: (1) ‘They will be kings and priests, ruling with Christ. (Rev. 20:6; 5:9, 10) Jesus said that these would be just a “little flock.” (Luke 12:32)’ (2) ‘If they are kings, there must also be subjects over whom they will rule. Who will these be? . . . Here are some points that I found to be very interesting when they were drawn to my attention. (Ps. 37:11, 29; Prov. 2:21, 22)’

In other words, if there are rulers then there must be subjects.  Who are the rulers and who are the subjects?

*** w75 1/1 p. 21 par. 7 Appreciating the Things of God ***

The Scriptures show that those who would be joint heirs with Christ in his kingdom and who would rule with him for a thousand years would be 144,000 in number, and that on earth there would be an unnumbered “great crowd” that would prove themselves loyal subjects of that kingdom.—Rev. 7:4-10; 14:3-5; 20:6.

But is this "great crowd" meant to be subject to the 144,000 for all eternity?  The above quote from the January 15, 2012 issue as well as the "Revelation book" (abbreviated "re" above) indicate that the Watchtower is not sure because "the Bible does not say."


So what effect does the rulers/subject argument really have if the Bible doesn't tell us who these kings rule over?  Does this mean that non-JW apologists are no longer obliged to answer this argument?  


Some might be interested to read how some JW's have responded to this HERE.

  

Watchtower issue: to join or not to join an organization?

*** w53 3/1 p. 143 par. 12 Integrity Leads to Life ***

We must seek to be genuine Christians in every sense of the word. Does that mean we have to join a church organization in Christendom? Ask yourself now, Did Christ Jesus, who set our example and told us to follow his example to gain life, join any church organization in his day? No, God does not require us to do that; but he requires us to worship him, to preach the good news of the Kingdom, to be Christians, to follow the example Jesus set, living in unalterable devotion to Jehovah God; to praise God and respect his supremacy, to resist all efforts to turn us from decency and to endure in faith. We have the Bible to show us the right way. Certainly it is not necessary for a person to become a member of a church to gain everlasting life.—John 3:16-18; 17:3.

But this is just talking about joining a "church" right?  Certainly, to be a true Christian one must join the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses, right?

Consider the April 22, 1957 Awake! magazine (published by the Watchtower) on p. 12:

This would seem to be consistent with the 1953 Watchtower quoted above.  But what about one's dedication to the organization?

*** bh chap. 18 p. 183 par. 24 Baptism and Your Relationship With God ***

Remember, too, that you have made a dedication to Jehovah God himself, not to a work, a cause, other humans, or an organization. Your dedication and baptism are the beginning of a very close friendship with God—an intimate relationship with him.—Psalm 25:14.

But when one becomes one of Jehovah's Witnesses, where must his dedication and loyalty be?

*** w65 7/1 p. 412 Faithful and Loyal to God’s Organization ***

Jehovah God being The loyal One, it is but fitting that he should require loyalty of us. (Rev. 15:4) However, we cannot be loyal to God without being loyal to his visible earthly organization, the “faithful and discreet slave,” and the local Christian congregation which represents that “slave.”

If one isn't loyal to the Governing Body, then one isn't being loyal to God.  And just in case this isn't clear, the Governing Body teaches that one's loyalty to them must be absolute and unquestionable.

*** w10 9/15 p. 23 par. 8 “Your Leader Is One, the Christ” ***

The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modern-day Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ.

There you have it.  If you aren't following the Governing Body, you aren't following Christ.  Would anyone agree that there appears to be some dissonance between the quotes above?  Perhaps some bait-and-switch for those newly "joining" the organization?

(ht: Marvin Shilmer)

What was expected to happen in 1914?

*** w89 4/15 pp. 6-7 par. 8 The Infamous Harlot—Her Fall ***

⁸ For some 40 years the Bible Students boldly proclaimed that the year 1914 would mark the end of the Gentile Times. As expected, that year brought world-shaking events, not the least of these being the first world war. 

One has to wonder how the Watchtower can portray their own history in this light.  But then again, many JW's and non-JW's reading the literature may be unaware of its history of failed predictions.  Therefore, such ones would see no reason to question these commendations.

However, when one considers the nature of the actual predictions made pre-1914, it would be difficult to deny that such words are not an accurate portrayal.  Some may even conclude that such a misrepresentation of pre-1914 predictions are nothing short of dishonest.

Compare the above quotation to what was really said about 1914:

“The date of the close of that ‘battle’ is definitely marked in Scripture as October, 1914.  It is already in progress, its beginning dating from October, 1874.” –Zion’s Watch Tower Jan. 15, 1892 p. 22 

“We see no reason for changing the figures—nor could we change them if we would.  They are, we believe, God’s dates, not ours.  But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.  We see no reason for changing from our opinion expressed in the View presented in the Watch Tower of Jan. 15, ’92.  We advise that it be read again.” –Zion’s Watch Tower, July 15, 1894 p. 226 

“True, it is expecting great things to claim, as we do, that within the coming twenty-six years all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved…In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished at the end of A.D. 1914.” –The Time is at Hand (1908 ed.) p. 99 

“Be not surprised, then, when in subsequent chapters we present proofs that the setting up of the Kingdom of God is already begun, that it is pointed out in prophecy as due to begin the exercise of power in A.D. 1878, and that due ‘battle of the great day of God Almighty’ (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.” –Time is at Hand (1911 ed.) p. 101

It should be readily obvious to anyone that there was more going on than predictions merely about "world shaking events" and the "end of the gentile times."  Thus, what happened in 1914 was not expected, contrary to what the Watchtower would have us believe according to the above quotation.  On the contrary, what was expected was "the complete overthrow of earth's present rulership." 

Who does John 6:68 apply to?

One Watchtower apologist thinks this applies to a non-profit printing organization located in Brooklyn, NY.  This is consistent with what the Watchtower themselves have stated:

*** w92 11/15 p. 21 Serve Jehovah Loyally ***

Nowhere Else to Go

¹² We will be impelled to serve Jehovah loyally with his organization if we remember that there is nowhere else to go for life eternal. When Jesus’ statements caused ‘many disciples to go off to the things behind,’ he asked his apostles: “You do not want to go also, do you?” Peter replied: “Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life; and we have believed and come to know that you are the Holy One of God.”—John 6:66-69.

However, the Scriptures are very clear on who this text is applied to if context means anything:

(John 6:66-71) ⁶⁶ Owing to this many of his disciples went off to the things behind and would no longer walk with him. ⁶⁷ Therefore Jesus said to the twelve: “YOU do not want to go also, do YOU?” ⁶⁸ Simon Peter answered him: “Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life; ⁶⁹ and we have believed and come to know that you are the Holy One of God.” ⁷⁰ Jesus answered them: “I chose YOU twelve, did I not? Yet one of YOU is a slanderer.” ⁷¹ He was, in fact, speaking of Judas [the son] of Simon Is·car′i·ot; for this one was going to betray him, although one of the twelve.

Who did Peter have in mind when he uttered the question, "whom shall we go away to?"  A printing organization that would not arise for another 2,000 years, or Jesus Himself?  

Watchtower apologists, such as StandFirm, want to divert the issue by arguing issues related to ecclesiology and whether Christians should worship God in opposition to those whom Christ Himself appointed as apostles in the first century.  But even if the Governing Body are who they claim to be, John 6:68 is contextually applicable only to Jesus.  To apply it to seven fallible and error-prone men in Brooklyn, NY is nothing short of blasphemous.  So why do Watchtower apologists defend the Watchtower such embarrassingly poor arguments like these?  Because they must have absolute unquestionable submission to whatever is put in print by the Watchtower.  

But I didn't write this blog necessarily to refute one of the extremely few Watchtower apologists who write and dialogue on the internet; its to offer an argument that could prove useful for anyone who wishes to witness to a JW. Consider using John 6:68 in asking a JW who this text is applied to in context.  This question alone could prove effecting in getting JW's to "examine the Scriptures to see if these things are so." (Acts 17:11)  

Silly me...it was a "spiritual" meaning!

According to THIS, Camping has now explained what really happened on May 21.  But just in case you don't want to give Camping any more attention than he deserves by reading the report, allow me to translate his excuse:

When your doomsday end-of-the-world prediction doesn't come to pass; give it a "spiritual" meaning instead.  


Where have we heard THAT EXCUSE before?


(ht: EYE ON APOLOGETICS)

My Interview with Apologetics315 on Jehovah's Witnesses

Thank you, Brian, for the opportunity for this interview!  Here's the description from APOLOGETICS315:

Today's interview is with Mike Felker. Mike blogs on apologetics at TheApologeticFront, with an emphasis on interacting with Jehovah's Witnesses. He talks about his background, the overall belief system of JWs, The Watchtower Society, their various teachings regarding salvation, the afterlife, Jesus, the trinity, etc. He also discusses strategies for interaction including what to focus on and what to avoid. You might also enjoy Mike's interview on the Theopologetics podcast at this link. Mike's video channels on Youtube are here and here.

Full Interview MP3 Audio here (1hr)

Enjoy.

Books recommended by Mike for dealing with Jehovah's Witnesses:

• Jehovah's Witnesses Answered Verse by Verse
• Crisis of Conscience
• Tactics

Subscribe to the Apologetics 315 Interviews podcast here or in iTunes.

Not measurable and numbered...yet measurable and numbered

(Revelation 7:4) 4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, a hundred and forty-four thousand, sealed out of every tribe of the sons of Israel:

According to the Watchtower, the 144,000 are a literal group of "anointed" Christians who will go to heaven to rule and reign with Christ.  They believe that the rest of the true Christians are described as follows:

(Revelation 7:9) 9 After these things I saw, and, look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands. 

In addition, the Watchtower believes this "great crowd" is so large that its not able to be numbered.  And they do so on the basis of what the text actually says: "which no man was able to number."

Since the Watchtower holds to the innumerable nature of the great crowd on the basis of such descriptive terms, it is interesting how another text uses similar language:

(Hosea 1:10) 10 “And the number of the sons of Israel must become like the grains of the sand of the sea that cannot be measured or numbered. And it must occur that in the place in which it used to be said to them, ‘YOU men are not my people,’ it will be said to them, ‘The sons of the living God.’

It is beyond dispute that though the Watchtower views an historical fulfillment of this text in 537 B.C.E. in the exile from Babylon, they also view an additional fulfillment in the establishment of the "anointed class" of 144,000.  The reason we know this is because this text is quoted and applied in 1 Peter 2:10 and Romans 9:26; two texts interpreted by the Watchtower in reference to the "anointed class."

*** w10 3/15 p. 24 pars. 3-4 One Flock, One Shepherd ***

³ The apostle Peter clearly identified this new nation. He wrote the following to his fellow Christians: “You are ‘a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession, that you should declare abroad the excellencies’ of the one that called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Pet. 2:9) As foretold, natural Jews who accepted Jesus as the Messiah were the first members of that new nation. (Dan. 9:27a; Matt. 10:6) Later, many non-Israelites were also included in this nation, for Peter went on to say: “You were once not a people, but are now God’s people.”—1 Pet. 2:10.

⁴ To whom was Peter here speaking? In the beginning of his letter, he says: “[God] gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an incorruptible and undefiled and unfading inheritance. It is reserved in the heavens for you.” (1 Pet. 1:3, 4) So this new nation is made up of anointed Christians, who have the heavenly hope. They are “the Israel of God.” (Gal. 6:16) In a vision, the apostle John saw that these spiritual Israelites number 144,000

Consider the dilemma for the Watchtower.  Revelation 7:9 is interpreted as an innumerable group on the basis of the words, "which no man was able to number."  Yet, Hosea 1:10 is also in reference to a group "that cannot be measured or numbered."  Yet, the Watchtower believes that this group is numbered and quite small compared to the "great crowd."

This problem can be summarized as follows:

• The "anointed" class in literal and numbered (Rev. 7:4), yet they are so large that they cannot be numbered (Hos. 1:10). 

• The "great crowd" is not numbered since they are "not able to be numbered." (Rev. 7:9)
  
  

Review of the June 15, 2011 Watchtower Study Edition

You can download this issue of the Watchtower HERE

The most noteworthy quotations are found on p. 15,

19 The fact that the God of love counted Abraham as righteous should be heartening for true Christians today. Jehovah did not declare him righteous in the sense that he does those whom he anoints with spirit to be “joint heirs with Christ.” The limited number of that group are “called to be holy ones” and are accepted as “God’s sons.” (Rom. 1:7; 8:14, 17, 33) In contrast, Abraham came to be “Jehovah’s friend”—and that before the ransom sacrifice was offered. (Jas. 2: 23; Isa. 41:8) What, then, about true Christians who hope to live in the restored earthly Paradise?

20 These have not received “the free gift of righteousness” with heavenly life in view “through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 3:24; 5:15, 17) Nevertheless, they exercise deep faith in God and his provisions, and they manifest their faith by good works. One such work is that of “preaching the kingdom of God . . . and teaching the things concerning the Lord Je- sus Christ.” (Acts 28:31) Thus, Jehovah can view these as righteous in the sense that he did Abraham. The gift such ones receive —friendship with God—differs from “the free gift” the anointed receive. Yet, it certainly is a gift that they accept with deep gratitude.

Interview with Greg Stafford

Greg Stafford is a Jehovah's Witness who is no longer associated with the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society.  He has written SEVERAL BOOKS which both defend and criticize particular elements of the Watchtower Society.  The fact that Stafford is so critical of the organization, yet holds to many of its core doctrines, make him quite an interesting and unique apologist.

Recently, Stafford was interviewed by the SIX SCREENS OF THE WATCHTOWER TELENETWORK with regards to his stance on many issues.  Regardless of what you think of Stafford, if you are interested in Jehovah's Witnesses, you should find this interview interesting.  And yes, you'll hear his arguments against the Trinity and other doctrines held by "Christendom."  But you'll also hear his criticisms against the Watchtower Society and why he left.  On that end, any faithful JW in association with the Watchtower will be obliged to view him as an apostate and treated accordingly.  But I do hope that those same JW's will give this interview a chance and perhaps learn something new.

The interview was very disorganized and distracting, as it was held in a conference call format with many honing in to ask questions.  The interview starts at about 20 minutes in, but the full mp3 file is almost 6 hours long.  I haven't gotten through the whole thing, but I doubt Stafford was on the whole time.

If anyone has any thoughts, i'd be very interested in hearing them.  You can download or listen to the mp3 HERE.

Governing Body self-promotion in the May 15, 2011 Watchtower Study Edition

I'm always wondering why the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses; those 7 men residing in Brooklyn, NY, seem to keen on reminding their followers who is really in charge. To those who are not one of Jehovah's Witnesses, consider what it would be like if your pastor reminded all in the congregation that they are to submit to his counsel and exhortations. But to make this more comparative to Jehovah's Witnesses, consider if your pastor did this every other Sunday. What would your congregation think of such a person?

Such is not far from the truth when it comes to the Governing Body. Why do these men so regularly promote their authority? Is it because their followers are regularly out of line? Are Jehovah's Witnesses regularly questioning whether these men are who they claim to be (i.e. chosen by Christ in 1919)? Anyone who has spent much time with JW's should know that most JW's have absolute unquestionable submission to the Governing Body. Therefore, it seems odd that they need to stress these points as much as they do.

Consider the recent statements made in the MAY 15, 2011 WATCHTOWER STUDY EDITION:

We do well to examine how we respond to timely Scriptural counsel presented in our Bible-based publications. By studying the Scriptures and attending congregation meetings, we are reminded of the sayings of Christ. (2 Pet. 3:1, 2) We show our heartfelt appreciation for this supply of spiritual food by regularly partaking of it. What, though, should be our reaction if certain counsel is repeated occasionally? For example, God’s Word counsels Christians to marry “only in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 7:39) For over a century, this subject has periodically been discussed in The Watchtower. Christ’s brothers surely demonstrate their loving concern for our spiritual welfare by publishing articles on this and other inspired counsel. Paying attention to these reminders is one way to show that we are following our perfect Leader, Jesus Christ. (p. 27, par. 1)

It is interesting that the Watchtower mentions the "occasional" repetition of various topics. This may be in answer to those who wonder why the Governing Body needs to so regularly remind their followers who are in charge. The answer is: "out of concern." But what is the Governing Body so concerned with? Are they concerned with the spiritual well being of followers of Christ, or whether followers of Christ will be followers of them with absolute unquestionable submission?

The last question in the paragraph is indirectly one of the key elements of control the Governing Body has on their followers: if you don't accept their "reminders," you are not a true follower of Christ. This is a restatement of one of the most controlling and self-promoting statements ever made by the Governing Body:

***w10 9/15 p. 23 ‘Your leader is one, the Christ’***

The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modern-day Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ.

There is little more that can be said to stress the type of submission one is to have towards the Governing Body, even when offering "refinements" on teachings that are no longer held:

“The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established,” states Proverbs 4:18. Yes, Jesus’ leadership is progressive, not stagnant. Another way to cooperate with Christ’s “brothers” is to have a positive attitude toward any refinements in our understanding of Scriptural truths as published by “the faithful and discreet slave.”—Matt. 24:45. (p. 27 par. 2)

Though Proverbs 4:18 has nothing to do with doctrine or Bible teachings, the JW is obligated to accept the interpretation of the Governing Body without question. But what happens when a teaching is abandoned in favor of a new teaching? For instance, when organ transplants were once forbidden, how many faithful JW's risked their health for the Watchtower? When the teaching was abandoned, did the Watchtower offer an apology? According to the above quote, none would be needed. Why? Because JW's are to have a "positive attitude" towards these refinements, even if loved ones were needlessly lost in the process.

But what if the Governing Body is clearly teaching something that you know to be false and unbiblical?

*** w57 5/1 p. 284 par. 14 Trust Your Proved, Faithful Brothers ***

Showing respect for Jehovah’s organization really resolves itself down to our attitude toward God’s visible channel and the trust that we place in our proved, faithful brothers. If we have become thoroughly convinced that this is Jehovah’s organization, that he is guiding and directing his people, then we shall not be unsettled by anything that happens. If something comes up that we do not understand we will wait patiently until it is made thoroughly clear to us. If we feel sure something is wrong we will ‘keep the commandment’ of our Father and take whatever theocratic steps are open to us and then wait on Jehovah. We will not ‘forsake our mother’s teaching’ by immediately beginning to criticize and find fault. We will realize that Jehovah knows what is going on in his organization, and if he is willing to permit it, who are we to insist it should be different? If we really have faith, we will know that if it is wrong he will straighten it out eventually, and we are far safer inside his organization even with these minor difficulties than we would be on the outside where only chaos and destruction await us.

Some may feel that this is speaking of those who have haughty attitudes towards the teachings of the Governing Body. But such is not the case. The faithful JW is to have unquestionable acceptance of anything that is put in print by the Watchtower. If they choose not to, they are rejecting or questioning God Himself:

*** w57 6/15 p. 370 par. 7 Overseers of Jehovah’s People ***

Yes, particularly since 1919 has it been true that he has appointed the collective body of the anointed remnant over all the visible interests of the Kingdom. The “slave” then became responsible not only for ministering to the needs of the anointed body members but also for taking on the responsibility of preaching the good news of the established Kingdom to people of all nations. (Matt. 24:14) Such is true not by their determination of it, but because God himself has so directed. “God has set the members in the body, each one of them, just as he pleased,” is the way it is pictured in 1 Corinthians 12:18 (NW). It is vital that we appreciate this fact and respond to the directions of the “slave” as we would to the voice of God, because it is His provision.

*** w59 5/1 p. 269 pars. 6-7 Attain Completeness in the New World Society ***

7 To hold to the headship of Christ, it is therefore necessary to obey the organization that he is personally directing. Doing what the organization says is to do what he says. Resisting the organization is to resist him

Therefore, one is not to just have a "positive attitude" towards the Governing Body and what they teach; they are to have absolute unquestionable acceptance of even those teachings they know to be false. To resist these teachings is to resist God (yes, even if they are false teachings).

I hope all Jehovah's Witnesses reading this will consider who their allegiance is really to: God or men? Biblically, the only one we should have absolute unquestionable devotion to is Jesus Christ Himself; not seven men in Brooklyn, NY. After all, Scripture never says of a Governing Body,

“in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument.”
(Colossians 2:3–4)

***UPDATE***

Mark wrote an excellent article (far better than mine) on the same topic that can be found HERE

A picture is worth a thousand words...but added interpretations can be helpful

For those unfamiliar with the significance of this, allow me to briefly summarize.  The prediction made by the Watchtower was this:

*** w84 5/15 pp. 6-7 1914—The Generation That Will Not Pass Away ***

From a purely human viewpoint, it could appear that these developments could hardly take place before the generation of 1914 disappears from the scene. But fulfillment of all the foretold events affecting the generation of 1914 does not depend on comparatively slow human action. Jehovah’s prophetic word through Christ Jesus is: “This generation [of 1914] will by no means pass away until all things occur.” (Luke 21:32) And Jehovah, who is the source of inspired and unfailing prophecy, will bring about the fulfillment of his Son’s words in a relatively short time.—Isaiah 46:9, 10; 55:10, 11.

 Are these just words of men; mere opinions or interpretations of Scripture? Are we obliged to believe them?

***w31 11/1 p.  327 Taught of God***

The Watchtower recognizes the truth as belonging to Jehovah, and not to any creature. The Watchtower is not the instrument of any man or set of men, nor is it published according to the whims of men. No man’s opinion is expressed in The Watchtower.

*** w10 9/15 p. 13 par. 8 Unity Identifies True Worship ***

⁸ Similarly today, a Governing Body composed of spirit-anointed Christians contributes to the unity of the worldwide congregation. The Governing Body publishes spiritually encouraging literature in many languages. This spiritual food is based on God’s Word. Thus, what is taught is not from men but from Jehovah.—Isa. 54:13.

*** w10 9/15 p. 23 par. 8 “Your Leader Is One, the Christ” ***

In this time of the end, Christ has committed “all his belongings”—all the earthly interests of the Kingdom—to his “faithful and discreet slave” and its representative Governing Body, a group of anointed Christian men. (Matt. 24:45-47) The anointed and their other sheep companions recognize that by following the lead of the modern-day Governing Body, they are in fact following their Leader, Christ.

Did the prediction come to pass? To see for yourself, read the column on the right side of the magazine cover.  If you claim to be a follower of Christ, would you view the organization responsible for publishing this magazine worthy of the above claims?  Or should they be regarded as follows;

(Matthew 7:15) ¹⁵ “Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to YOU in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. 

(ht: FREE MINDS)

Did Jesus Return invisibly in 1914?

The following is a paper I wrote that is based on the Watchtower publication, WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH; specifically, the APPENDIX where 1914 is discussed. This paper is short in length in hopes that it will provide a simple understanding of the problems related to 1914. This date is a key issue for any Jehovah's Witnesses. It is recommended not only for Jehovah's Witnesses themselves to read, but especially for those who are studying to become a witness or seeking to reach them.

This paper can be downloaded and distributed freely. Click HERE to download.

Also, I made a 3 part video series which presents the same material:

PART 1

PART 2

PART 3

Were Jehovah's Witnesses chosen by Jesus Christ in 1919?

*** w08 5/15 p. 26 Pursue “Holiness in God’s Fear” ***

For his modern-day servants on earth, Jehovah opened “the Way of Holiness” leading away from Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. In 1919 he freed anointed Christians from spiritual bondage to false religion, and they progressively cleansed their worship of all false teachings. As Jehovah’s worshippers today, we enjoy a clean, tranquil spiritual environment in which we can worship Jehovah and have a peaceful relationship with him and with our fellow man.

1. Can you prove from the Bible that Jehovah's Witnesses were exclusively appointed by Jesus Christ in 1919?

2. Can you prove from the Bible that Jesus Christ did an inspection of all religions in the world in that year?

3. Can you prove that Jehovah's Witnesses had been freed from the practices of false religion in that year?

"Keep on the Watch!"....by proclaiming false dates?

In this blog, i'd like to offer some commentary on a Watchtower article that explains their self-proclaimed "overeagerness" as it relates to the predicting of "the time of the end."  But more importantly, i'd like to display a balanced view of how followers of Christ should seek God's Kingdom as it relates to Christ parousia.

*** w84 12/1 p. 17 par. 12 Keep Ready! ***

When the enthroned Lord Jesus inspected his household in 1919, he found the group of Christians associated with the Watchtower magazine loyally striving to “keep on the watch” with the help of spiritual “food at the proper time.” Until this very day, that “slave” class has faithfully continued to provide spiritual food to enable the Master’s “domestics” and their companions to “keep looking, keep awake.”—Mark 13:33.

Here we have the Jehovah's Witnesses' claim to "faithfulness" to the exclusion of all other religious groups per Jesus' inspection in 1919.  This matter cannot be overstated given the fact that it is Jesus Christ himself who made the appointment, rather than a self-proclaimed appointment.  Though it is not my intent to be a "faultfinder," no one can be blamed for seeking to test this organization in light of its claims; especially when it is the claim of Jesus Christ himself!  The question is, has the Watchtower been faithful in producing "spiritual food" that passes the inspection of Jesus Christ?  I can only imagine the standards that the Son of God would implement in inspecting a particular religious group for faithfulness and dispensing "spiritual food at the proper time"; surely a stricter set of standards than what I could come up with!

*** w84 12/1 p. 18 par. 13 Keep Ready! ***

It is easy for the established churches of Christendom and other people to criticize Jehovah’s Witnesses because their publications have, at times, stated that certain things could take place on certain dates. But is not such line of action in harmony with Christ’s injunction to “keep on the watch”? (Mark 13:37)

This is an interesting claim, given the statements made just one sentence prior.  On one hand, they have the highest possible standard set for themselves with the divine approval of Jesus Christ.  But on the other hand, they can be excused for setting false dates?  While it is true that Jesus commanded His followers in the first century to "keep on the watch," is it also true that they set specific dates for "the time of the end?"  This is quite confusing because The Watchtower has, on several occasions, criticized others for doing precisely what they have commended themselves for doing:

*** g93 3/22 p. 3 Why So Many False Alarms? ***

THE story is told of a boy who watched the sheep of the villagers. To stir up a bit of excitement, one day he cried out, “Wolf! Wolf!” when there was no wolf. The villagers rushed out with clubs to drive off the wolf, only to find that there was none. It was such great fun that later on the boy repeated his cry. Again the villagers rushed out with their clubs, only to discover that it was another false alarm. After that a wolf did come, and the boy sounded the warning, “Wolf! Wolf!” but the villagers dismissed his cry as another false alarm. They had been fooled too often.

So it has become with those who proclaim the end of the world. Down through the centuries since Jesus’ day, so many unfulfilled predictions have been made that many no longer take them seriously.

***g68 10/8 p. 23 ‘A Time to ‘Lift up your head’ in confident hope”***

 True, there have been those in times past who predicted an “end to the world,” even announcing a specific date.  Some have gathered groups of people with them and fled to the hills or withdrawn into their houses waiting for the end.  Yet, nothing happened.  The “end” did not come.  They were guilty of false prophesying.  Why? What was missing? 

Missing was the full measure of evidence required in fulfillment of Bible prophecy.  Missing from such people were God’s truths and the evidence that he was guiding and using them. 

Is this a double standard that the Watchtower has set for themselves?  It would seem that when they proclaim a false date, it is to be commended for "keeping on the watch" in harmony with Christ's words.  But when someone else does it, they are "false prophets" that "no one should take seriously."

Since it is Jesus' words that should hold the most value to us as followers of Him, what does He say about those who predict things that don't come to pass?

“See to it that you are not misled; for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not go after them.”(Luke 21:8)  

“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15) 

 If Jesus warns against those who claim that "the time is near," then how could it be that He appointed and approved of a group who not only presents a double standard, but has emphatically predicted the time to be near (with an exact date in mind) on more than one occasion?

*** w84 12/1 p. 18 par. 13 Keep Ready! ***

On the other hand, have Christendom’s churches encouraged Christian watchfulness by teaching that the Kingdom is “the ruling of God in our hearts”? Have they not, rather, encouraged spiritual sluggishness by considering expectation of “the end” to be “meaningless” or “an insignificant myth”? Have apostates who claim that “the last days” began at Pentecost and cover the entire Christian Era promoted Christian alertness? Have they not, rather, induced spiritual sleepiness?

Actually, a large portion of "Christendom" has held a much louder and more prominent voice in proclaiming "the end is near" than what Jehovah's Witnesses have done.  A sales count on books like The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey and The Left Behind Series by Tim LaHaye proves just how widespread this is amongst Christendom.  Even in 1984 when this article was published, "Christendom" had already bought into the "end times" hysteria.  So who exactly is The Watchtower criticizing here?

*** w84 12/1 p. 18 par. 14 Keep Ready! ***

¹⁴ True, some expectations that appeared to be backed up by Bible chronology did not materialize at the anticipated time. But is it not far preferable to make some mistakes because of overeagerness to see God’s purposes accomplished than to be spiritually asleep as to the fulfillment of Bible prophecy? 

I'm not so sure about that.  The last time I checked, the Bible had some very stern words towards those who make false predictions in God's name that aren't said of those who are "spiritually asleep":

“‘But the prophet who speaks a word presumptuously in My name which I have not commanded him to speak, or which he speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’ “You may say in your heart, ‘How will we know the word which YHWH has not spoken?’ “When a prophet speaks in the name of YHWH, if the thing does not come about or come true, that is the thing which YHWH has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.”(Deuteronomy 18:20–22) 

And just to clear up any doubt as to who these words could be qualified to:

*** rs p. 132 False Prophets ***

False Prophets

Definition: Individuals and organizations proclaiming messages that they attribute to a superhuman source but that do not originate with the true God and are not in harmony with his revealed will.

***w/30 5/15 p. 155***

 The difference between a true and false prophet is that the one is speaking the word of the Lord and the other is speaking his own dreams and guesses…The true prophet of God today will be telling forth what the Bible teaches, and those things that the Bible tells us are soon to come to pass.  He will not be sounding forth man-made theories or guesses, either his own or those of others…This text proves again that those men who foretell things out of harmony with the Bible statements are false prophets.  

In light of these claims, is the Watchtower being inconsistent when they claim the following:

1. Making false prediction where "certain things happened on certain dates" is "in line with Christ's injunction to 'keep on the watch'"

2. Those who "announce a specific date" of "the end of the world" that "did not come...are guilty of false prophecying."

To back up these claims, the Watchtower provides some biblical examples that are to serve as parallels to their setting dates:

*** w84 12/1 pp. 18-19 pars. 14-15 Keep Ready! ***

Did not Moses make a 40-year miscalculation in trying to act ahead of time to remove Israel’s affliction? (Genesis 15:13; Acts 7:6, 17, 23, 25, 30, 34) Were not Christ’s apostles overanxious to see the Kingdom established, not to speak of their complete misunderstanding as to what the Kingdom really is? (Acts 1:6; compare Luke 19:11; 24:21.) Were not the anointed Christians in Thessalonica impatient to see “the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ” and “the day of Jehovah”?—2 Thessalonians 2:1, 2.

¹⁵ There is nothing basically unscriptural in using chronology in efforts to learn “the appointed time” for the fulfillment of God’s purposes. (Habakkuk 2:3) Daniel calculated when Jerusalem’s devastation was due to end. (Daniel 9:1, 2) The first-century faithful Jewish remnant were in expectation of the coming of the Messiah because they calculated the end of a time, based on prophecy. (Daniel 9:25; Luke 3:15) Late 19th-century and early 20th-century Christians were enabled to live in expectation of God’s Kingdom rule well before 1914 because they calculated when “the appointed times of the nations” were due to end. (Luke 21:24; Daniel 4:16, 17) It was, therefore, understandable why efforts were made to use other Biblical time indications to try to find out when the long-awaited hopes might become a reality. Faithful servants of Jehovah in the past cried out: “How long, O Jehovah?”—Isaiah 6:11; Psalm 74:10; 94:3.

One is encouraged to look up each one of these biblical references and consider whether these are an accurate parallel to the "end of the world" predictions that the Watchtower has made as "God's channel of communication":

“We see no reason for changing the figures—nor could we change them if we would.  They are, we believe, God’s dates, not ours.  But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.  We see no reason for changing from our opinion expressed in the View presented in the Watch Tower of Jan. 15, ’92.  We advise that it be read again.” –Zion’s Watch Tower, July 15, 1894 p. 226

“Also, in the year 1918, when God destroys the churches wholesale and the church member by millions, it shall be that any that escape shall come to the works of Pastor Russell to learn the meaning of the downfall of “Christianity.” –The Boiling Caldron p. 485

“Therefore we may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old, particularly those named by the Apostle in Hebrews chapter eleven, to the condition of human perfection.” –Millions Now Living will Never Die  1920, p. 90

 Hopefully one can see that there is a vast difference between the miscalculation of a chronology and predicting something in God's name that doesn't come to pass (Deut. 18:20-22).  Even the Watchtower's own writings reveal this.  But their statement, "There is nothing basically unscriptural in using chronology in efforts to learn 'the appointed time' for the fulfillment of God’s purposes" reveals ignorance on their part or an unwillingness to apply their own standards to themselves.  

*** w84 12/1 p. 19 pars. 16-18 Keep Ready! ***

¹⁶ Since Jesus clearly stated that no man could know “that day” or “the hour” when the Father will order his son to ‘come’ against Satan’s wicked system of things, some may ask: ‘Why is it so urgent to live in expectation of the end?’ It is urgent because practically in the same breath, Jesus added: “Keep looking, keep awake . . . keep on the watch.” (Mark 13:32-35) The “sign” of Jesus’ parousia has been in evidence since 1914. We now await “the sign of the Son of man,” when he ‘comes’ as Jehovah’s Executioner.

¹⁷ When Jesus gave the first-century Judean Christians a sign whereby they would know that the time had come to flee from Jerusalem, he insisted on the need to act immediately. (Luke 21:20-23) Why all the urgency, since nearly four years elapsed from the appearing of the sign in 66 C.E. and the actual destruction of Jerusalem in 70 C.E.? Because Jesus knew that if they delayed, they would keep putting off their flight and eventually be caught by the Roman armies.

¹⁸ Similarly today, it would be highly dangerous for Christians to rationalize about the urgency of our times and adopt a “cruising speed” attitude that reflects doubt about the nearness of the end.

Of course it would be unbiblical for Christians to adopt a "cruising speed" attitude towards the day when Christ will return.  The problem with the Watchtower is that they have adopted a completely unbalanced mindset towards end times chronologies and predictions to the point of rationalization, whereas the true follower of Christ lives each day with the realization that the end could come; not in overeagerness, but with balance.  Such swaying could lead to some very serious consequences that the Watchtower has yet to take responsibility of.  The word of the Lord Jesus are quite clear towards those who cause such stumbling:

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe to stumble, it would be better for him if, with a heavy millstone hung around his neck, he had been cast into the sea.” (Mark 9:42)

One who associates themselves with such an organization would do well to ask themselves who their loyalty is with; God or man?  I pray that if this question is something you are contemplating, then you will find what can only be found in the person of Jesus Christ:

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.” (Matthew 11:28–29)