Page 3: God's Word, the Bible, exhorts its readers to cultivate virtue. For example, the apostle Paul writes: "Whatever virtue there is and whatever praiseworthy thing there is, continue considering these things." (Philippians 4:8) And the apostle Peter urges us to put forth 'earnest effort in supplying to our faith virtue.' (2 Peter 1:5)
Note: Are you growing in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ?
2 Peter 1:5-8 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Page 4: There is only one true Source for standards of morality - the Creator of mankind, Jehovah God.
Note: Jehovah God is a plurality of persons.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
Page 5: God's standards of good and bad thus became the basis for judgment, or evaluation, of a person's deeds, outlook, and personality traits. Without such standards we could not correctly distinguish right from wrong.
Note: Are you observing the righteousness of God through sincere belief in Jesus Christ?
Romans 3:21-22 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe.
Page 5: Since Jehovah God has determined the standards of good and bad and has revealed them in the Bible, should we not get fully acquainted with them? The apostle Paul wrote: "All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." - 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
Correction: Should you not be fully acquainted with Jesus Christ?
2 Timothy 3:14-15 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Page 6: Virtue is not a passive avoidance of what is bad. It has moral power. A virtuous person has goodness. "Virtue," says one professor, "needs to be learned with the heart as well as the head." Cultivating virtue, then, entails more than a thorough acquaintance with God's Word. Its calls for meditation on what is written there so that our hearts get filled with gratitude for Jehovah and we are moved to apply Scriptural principles in our lives.
Correction: True Christians are virtuous through Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 10:29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?
Page 6: "How I do love your law!" Exclaimed the psalmist. "All day long it is my concern." (Psalm 119:97) And King David wrote: "I have remembered days of long ago; I have meditated on all your (God's) activity; I willingly kept myself concerned with the work of your own hands." (Psalm 143:5) We too should make prayerful meditation an integral part of our study of the Bible and Bible-based publications.
Correction: Have you been meditating on Jesus Christ?
Galatians 2:15-16 "We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified."
Page 6: True, making time for diligent study accompanied by meditation can be a challenge. But the pursuit of virtue requires that we buy out the time from other activities. (Ephesians 5:15, 16)
Note: Are you pursuing Jesus Christ?
Ephesians 5:14 Therefore He says: "Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light."
Page 6: Meditation is invaluable in cultivating virtue, for it helps us to feel the way Jehovah feels and to make his views our views. Maria, for example, knew that God prohibits fornication. But to 'abhor what is wicked and cling to what is good,' she needed to meditate on key Bible texts. (Romans 12:9)
Note: Are you meditating on Jesus Christ?
Philippians 1:19-20 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.
Page 7: Meditation includes considering the result of an action. Paul urges Christians to abstain from fornication and to exercise self-control so that "no one go to point of harming and encroach upon the rights of his brother." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7)
Correction: Christian meditation is through and in Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God; for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 4:8 Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.
Page 7: Good questions to ponder are: 'What damage would I do to myself, my family, or others by committing this act? How would I be affected spiritually, emotionally, and physically? How have things turned out for others who have violated God's law in the past?'
Correction: A better question to ponder would be: 'Have I been sanctified by the Holy Spirit?'
James 2:10 For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.
1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
Page 7: The most outstanding example of virtue is Jehovah. He always acts in a virtuous way and does what is righteous and good. We can cultivate virtue by becoming "imitators of God." (Ephesians 5:1) And God's Son, Jesus Christ, 'left us a model for us to follow his steps closely.'
Note: Virtue is found in Jesus Christ.
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."
Page 7: Having inherited imperfection, at times there may rage within us a fierce battle between the mind and the flesh - between wanting to do what is virtuous and following our sinful tendencies. (Roman 5:12; 7:13-23)
Note: Have you been delivered from the Law by Jesus Christ?
Romans 7:4-6 Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another; to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death. But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.
Page 7: Jehovah has provided his Word and Bible-based publications. By diligent study of the Scriptures and prayerful meditation on them, we can become pure in heart. From such a pure heart can come forth virtuous thoughts, words, and actions. (Luke 6:45)
Note: A pure heart comes from being "born again" according to the word of God.
1 Peter 1:22-25 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because "All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the LORD endures forever." Now this is the word which by the good news was preached to you.
Page 7: Based on the example of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, we can build a godly personality. And we can certainly learn much from individuals who are faithfully serving God today.
Note: True Christians faithfully serve Jesus Christ today.
Romans 1:1 Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the good news of God
Page 7: The apostle Paul exhorted his readers to "continue considering" virtue and other praiseworthy things. Doing this is sure to result in God's blessing. (Philippians 4:8, 9) With Jehovah's help, we can succeed in cultivating virtue.
Note: True Christians cultivate virtue through Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Galatians 2:21 "I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain."
Page 8: FROM the early days of their modern-day history, Jehovah's Witnesses have been intensely interested in one of Jesus Christ's prophecies: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come."
Correction: Jesus Christ does not want you to be intensely interested in the time of the end.
Acts 1:7 And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority."
Page 8: As 1914 - the beginning of "the last days" - approached, sincere Bible Students undertook with firm conviction an unprecedented worldwide campaign of education based on the Holy Scriptures. - 2 Timothy 3:1.
Note: 1914 is based on the bogus date of 607 BCE for the destruction of Jerusalem.
In 588 BC Zedekiah led a revolt against Chaldea, and two years later (586 BC) Nebuchadnezzar's army destroyed Judah and razed Jerusalem. Funk & Wagnalls Encyclopedia, Volume 15, page 57.
Page 8: To achieve their objective of declaring the good news earth wide, these servants of Jehovah employed a method that was new, bold, and vivid. To learn more about it, let us go back in time.
Note: True Christians go back to the Scriptures to know that the good news is about Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the good news which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you; unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,
Page 10: IN THESE days of skepticism and doubt, Jehovah's Witnesses stand out as Christians having firm conviction.
Correction: True Christians are Jesus Witnesses.
Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Page 11: The annual meeting also included a stirring talk given by Governing Body member David Splane on the yeartext for the year 2001. Based on the apostle Paul's words, it is: "Stand complete and with firm conviction in all the will of God." (Colossians 4:12) Jehovah's Witnesses around the world are determined to do that as they faithfully preach the good news of God's Kingdom in all the earth. - Matthew 24:14.
Note: Are you a servant of Jesus Christ?
Col 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
Page 12: JEHOVAH long ago foretold that something remarkable would occur in the time of the end. Through the prophet Isaiah, it was stated: "The little one himself will become a thousand, and the small one a mighty nation. I myself, Jehovah, shall speed it up in its own time." - Isaiah 60:22. Is there evidence that this prophecy is undergoing fulfillment today? Yes, indeed!
Correction: Eternity is not here yet.
Isaiah 60:20 Your sun shall no longer go down, nor shall your moon withdraw itself; For the LORD will be your everlasting light, and the days of your mourning shall be ended.
Revelation 22:5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.
Page 12: Millions of Kingdom proclaimers - a mighty nation - are now associating with more than 91,000 congregations in 235 lands around the earth. Unquestionably, this confirms that Jehovah is speeding up the ingathering of true worshipers before the outbreak of the "great tribulation," now so near at hand. - Matthew 24:21; Revelation 7:9-14.
Note: True Christians are Jesus Christ proclaimers.
1 Corinthians 1:22-24 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
Page 12: After making a personal dedication to Jehovah, and in harmony with Jesus' instructions, these millions were baptized "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." (Matthew 28:19) Being baptized "in the name of the Father" means that these dedicated individuals recognize Jehovah as their heavenly Father and Life-Giver and submit to his sovereignty. Baptism 'in the name of the Son' signifies that they confess Jesus Christ as their Ransomer, Leader, and King. They also acknowledge the role of God's holy spirit, or active force, in directing their life. This indicates that they have been baptized in the name of the holy spirit.'
Correction: The word "name" is not plural.
Note: The name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit is Jehovah.
Page 12: At their baptism, new disciples are ordained as ministers of Jehovah God.
Note: True Christians are ministers of Jesus Christ.
1 Timothy 4:6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
Note: Jehovah's Witnesses follow bad doctrine produced by the Watch Tower.
Page 12: After their baptism, they will continue to grow spiritually as ministers of the "good news" as long as they accept the leadings of God's spirit and continue to apply his Word.
Correction: Applying the word of God, Jehovah's Witnesses are under a curse of God.
Galatians 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other good news to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.
Page 13: Appointments of Christian overseers, or elders, and ministerial servants are theocratic because the process of recommending and appointing such responsible men is carried out according to God's arrangement as set out in the Holy Scriptures. And as the "head over all," Jehovah of course has the right to determine how his visible organization will operate.
Note: Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as "head over all" the universe?
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth."
Page 13: If elements of the world seek to interfere with these appointments, Jehovah's people refuse to compromise. Steadfastly, they maintain the position so well expressed by the apostles in the first century when they said: "We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29)
Note: First century Christians suffered for the name of Jesus Christ. Are you?
Acts 5:40-41 And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.
Page 13: Thus, the Witnesses subject themselves to God in all things. (Hebrews 12:9; James 4:7) Following theocratic procedure brings divine approval.
Note: Jehovah's Witnesses have been brainwashed by the Watch Tower.
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Page 13: Apparently alluding to his own appointment by Jesus and Jehovah as "an apostle to the nations," Paul told the Galatians that he had been appointed "neither from men nor through a man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him up from the dead."
Note: Paul was never appointed by a "governing body" in Jerusalem but by Jesus Christ.
Acts 26:15-16 "So I said, 'Who are You, Lord (Jehovah)?' And He said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you.'"
Page 13: Paul reminded overseers living in Ephesus that they had been appointed by God through holy spirit. He said: "Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son." (Acts 20:28)
Note: The Watch Tower has twisted the word of God. The word "Son" is not in the Greek.
Acts 20:28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.
Page 14: A review of these qualifications shows that those who take the lead in Jehovah's worship must be exemplary in Christian conduct. Men who reach out for congregational responsibility must give evidence that holy spirit is operating on them. (2 Timothy 1:14)
Note: The Holy Spirit must be in you for godly righteousness to exist.
1 Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
2 Timothy 1:14 That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.
Page 14: So when the elders in the local congregation meet to recommend men for congregation responsibility, they pray for God's spirit to guide them. They base their recommendations on what is stated in God's inspired Word, and holy spirit enables them to discern whether an individual being considered for appointment meets the Scriptural requirements.
Correction: Jehovah's Witness elders are not guided by the Holy Spirit.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."
Page 14: The governing body gave the following direction: "Search out for yourselves seven certified men from among you, full of spirit and wisdom, that we may appoint them over this necessary business." (Acts 6:1-3) While men on the scene made the recommendations, the appointments were made by responsible men there in Jerusalem. A similar pattern is followed today.
Correction: Paul and Barnabas were never sent out by the Jerusalem church.
Acts 13:1-3 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul (Paul). As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Page 14: The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses directly appoints all members of Branch Committees.
Correction: The Jerusalem church never appointed leaders in other churches.
Acts 14:23 So when they (Paul and Barnabas) had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.
Page 15: In addition to appointing Branch Committee members, the Governing Body appoints Bethel elders and traveling overseers. However, they do commission responsible brothers to act for them in making certain other appointments. There is Scriptural precedent also for this.
Correction: There is Scriptural precedent against this Watch Tower assumption.
Galatians 2:11-13 Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; for before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy.
Note: Paul openly confronted the hypocrisy of the Jerusalem "Governing Body."
Page 15: Paul told his coworker Titus: "For this reason I left you in Crete, that you might correct the things that were defective and might make appointments of older men in city after city, as I gave you orders." (Titus 1:5) Paul then outlined the qualifications that Titus was to look for in men who would qualify for such appointments. Today, therefore, the Governing Body appoints qualified brothers at the branches to represent it in making appointments of elders and ministerial servants. Care is taken that those acting representatively on behalf of the Governing Body clearly understand and follow the Scriptural guidelines for making such appointments. Hence, it is under the direction of the Governing Body that qualified men are appointed to serve in the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide.
Correction: Titus resisted the Jerusalem "Governing Body" and was not circumcised.
Galatians 2:1-3 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me. And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that good news which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain. Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised.
Page 16: Theocratic appointments come from Jehovah through his Son and God's visible earthly channel, "the faithful and discreet slave" and its Governing Body. (Matthew 24:45-47) The whole process of such recommendation and appointment is directed, or guided, by holy spirit. This is the case because the qualifications are set out in God's Word, which is inspired by holy spirit, and the individual appointed gives evidence of producing the fruitage of that spirit. Therefore, the appointments are to be viewed as being made by holy spirit. Just as overseers and ministerial servants were appointed theocratically in the first century, the same is true today.
Note: The Watch Tower is not following the first-century Christian example.
1 Cor 12:28 And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.
Page 16: In this time of spiritual prosperity and theocratic increase in the Kingdom-preaching activity, we are thankful that Jehovah is primarily responsible for the appointment of overseers and ministerial servants. This Scriptural arrangement helps to maintain God's high standards of righteousness among us as Jehovah's Witnesses.
Correction: Sincere belief in Jesus Christ leads to godly righteousness.
Romans 4:3 For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness."
Page 16: Moreover, the Christian spirit and earnest efforts of these men contribute greatly to our wonderful peace and unity as Jehovah's servants. Like the psalmist David, we are therefore moved to exclaim: "Look! How good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!" - Psalm 133:1.
Correction: Godly peace and unity comes from Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit.
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Page 16: As theocratic procedures have progressively been more fully implemented among Jehovah's Witnesses, we have experienced these blessed conditions throughout God's earthly organization.
Correction: True Christians do not associate with changing organizations like the Watch Tower.
Prov 24:21 My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those given to change;
Page 16: Let us, therefore, be determined to keep in step with Jehovah's organization. Above all, let us continue to serve together unitedly to the honor, praise, and glory of Jehovah's great and holy name.
Correction: True Christian unity comes in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
Page 17: On the other hand, what about the international brotherhood of Jehovah's servants? (1 Peter 2:17) Careful investigation proves that 'the God of peace equips them with every good thing to do his will.' - Hebrews 13:20, 21.
Correction: The Watch Tower does not honor all people and ruling authorities.
1 Peter 2:17 Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
Page 17: But because Israel proved unfaithful, at Pentecost 33 C.E., Jehovah transferred his favor to the new congregation that consisted of Jesus Christ's followers. They were anointed with Jehovah's holy spirit and zealously went forth declaring the truth about God and Christ to others. - Acts 2:41, 42.
Correction: The Israelites are still a part of God's plan.
Romans 11:1-5 I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying, "LORD, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life"? But what does the divine response say to him? "I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
Page 18: Like the early Christians, Jehovah's present-day Witnesses have developed from small beginnings. (Zechariah 4:8-10) Since the late 19th century, there has been clear evidence that God's spirit rests on his organization.
Correction: The Holy Spirit has been in true Christians of Christendom continually.
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Page 18: Because we have relied, not on human power, but on guidance by holy spirit, we have continued to progress in our understanding of the Scriptures and in doing God's will. (Zech. 4:6)
Note: Are Jehovah's Witnesses going to build a temple for animal sacrifice?
Zechariah 4:9 "The hands of Zerubbabel Have laid the foundation of this temple; His hands shall also finish it. Then you will know That the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you."
Page 18: Now that we are in "the last days," it is vital that we keep in step with Jehovah's progressive organization. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Doing so enables us to keep our hope alive and to share in giving a witness about God's established Kingdom before the final end overtakes this system of things. - Matthew 24:3-14.
Note: Jehovah's Witnesses are not suffering for the name of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 24:9 "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake."
Page 18: Regarding progressive spiritual enlightenment, Proverbs 4:18 has proved true. It says: "The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established." How thankful we are for the progressive spiritual enlightenment we have experienced!
Correction: Proverbs 4:18 is a contrast between good and evil people.
Proverbs 4:18-19 But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know what makes them stumble.
Note: Are you walking in the light of Jesus Christ?
John 8:12 Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."
Page 18: At the Cedar Point, Ohio, convention in 1919, God's Kingdom was highlighted. Jehovah uses the Kingdom to sanctify his name and vindicate his sovereignty.
Correction: Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe that God is in control.
Job 1:12 And the LORD said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person." So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD.
Note: Satan must get permission to harm a child of God.
Page 18: In fact, spiritual enlightenment has enabled us to discern that from Genesis through Revelation, the Bible testifies to Jehovah's purpose to sanctify his name by means of the Kingdom ruled by his Son. Therein lies the grand hope of all lovers of righteousness.
Correction: The Father's purpose is the salvation of true believers through the Son.
Luke 19:9-10 And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Page 19: How has such spiritual enlightenment helped us? Since God's Kingdom and the King Jesus Christ are no part of the world, neither can we be part of it. By keeping separate from the world, we show that we are on the side of the truth. (John 17:16; 18:37) When we observe the complex problems plaguing this wicked system, how thankful we are to be no part of Satan's organization! And how favored we are to have spiritual security within Jehovah's organization.
Correction: True spiritual security is found in Jesus Christ.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."
Page 19: At the Columbus, Ohio, convention in 1931, fitting application was made of Isaiah 43:10-12. The Bible Students adopted the distinctive name Jehovah's Witnesses. What a grand privilege it is to make known God's name so that others may call upon it in order to be saved! - Psalm 83:18; Romans 10:13.
Correction: Have you confessed Jesus Christ for salvation?
Romans 10:8-9 But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."
Page 19: Prior to the 1930's, many of God's people were somewhat uncertain about their hope for future life. Some had thoughts about heavenly life but were fascinated by Bible teachings about a paradise earth. At the Washington, D.C., convention in 1935, it was thrilling to learn that the great multitude, or great crowd, of Revelation 7 is a class with an earthly hope.
Correction: The great multitude or crowd will be in heaven.
Revelation 19:1 After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying, "Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!"
Page 19: The big issue that should concern human society was highlighted at the St. Louis, Missouri, convention in 1941. It is universal domination, or sovereignty.
Correction: The big issue missed by the Watch Tower is peace through Jesus Christ.
Acts 10:36 "The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ; He is Lord of all;"
Page 19: At the 1950 international convention in New York City, the princes of Isaiah 32:1, 2 were precisely identified. It was an electrifying moment when Brother Frederick Franz spoke on this subject and explained that princes of the new earth were among us.
Correction: Jesus Christ has not returned to the earth with the apostles to rule.
Matthew 19:28 So Jesus said to them, "Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Page 20: In 1975 an arrangement went into effect for committees of the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses to oversee the worldwide activities of God's organization. Branch Committees were appointed to have oversight of the work in their respective territories. Since then, attention has been given to simplifying the work at headquarters and at the branches of the Watch Tower Society so as to "make sure of the more important things." (Philippians 1:9, 10)
Correction: The Watch Tower Society is not a Christian organization.
Philippians 1:18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.
Page 21: Jesus certainly knows how to lead. He also knows his sheep and their deeds. In fact, when he inspected the seven congregations in Asia Minor, five times he said: "I know your deeds." (Revelation 2:2, 19; 3:1, 8, 15)
Note: True Christians will hold fast to the name of Jesus Christ.
Revelation 2:13 "I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells."
Page 21: In the first century, a group of older men in Jerusalem made up a governing body that had oversight of the congregations and of the Kingdom-preaching activity in general.
Correction: Paul was never assigned or answered to the Jerusalem "Governing Body."
Acts 14:26-28 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. So they stayed there a long time with the disciples.
Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead),
Page 21: Kingdom interests on the earth have been entrusted to "the faithful and discreet slave," which is represented by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses. (Matthew 24:45-47) The Governing Body is primarily concerned with providing spiritual instruction and direction for the Christian congregation. (Acts 6:1-6)
Note: The "Governing Body" does not believe in the physical return of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 24:44 "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."
Page 21: If certain Christians are dealt with harshly or are persecuted, steps are taken to build them up spiritually. And "in troublesome season," every effort is made to keep the preaching work moving forward. - 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.
Note: True Christians will suffer for the name of Jesus Christ.
John 15:21 "But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me."
Page 21: We have absolute confidence that Jehovah will never abandon his faithful people; he will never abandon his faithful people; he will deliver them through the coming "great tribulation." (Revelation 7:9-14; Psalm 94:14; 2 Peter 2:9)
Correction: True Christians will be removed from the earth before the "great tribulation."
Rev. 3:10 "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth."
Page 21: We have every reason to maintain the confidence we had at first firm right down to the end. (Hebrews 3:14) Let us, therefore, be determined to keep in step with Jehovah's organization.
Correction: Have you been saved through faith in Jesus Christ?
Romans 5:9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
Page 22: "The happy God" knows what we need for our individual happiness. (1 Timothy 1:11) Thus, the talk "Doing God's Will Brings Happiness" stressed that Jehovah's Word, the Bible, outlines the best way of living. (John 13:17)
Note: Have you received Jesus Christ into your life? It is the only way of living eternally.
John 13:20 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me."
Page 22: The next talk, "Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah," emphasized that, as "imitators of God," Christians want to produce "every sort of goodness" in their lives. (Ephesians 5:1, 9) One outstanding way to do this is by preaching the good news and making disciples. - Psalm 145:7.
Note: True Christians will be preaching the good news of Jesus Christ.
Acts 5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.
Page 22: The discussion "Continue Steadfast as Seeing the One Who Is Invisible" showed how strong faith helps us to "see" the invisible God. The speaker described how spiritual people are aware of God's qualities, including his ability to know even what we think. (Proverbs 5:21)
Note: True Christians are looking to Jesus Christ for eternal blessings.
John 20:29 Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
Page 23: The points presented in the talk "Beware of Rumors and Gossip" helped all to see that although amazing things do happen, we should react wisely, not gullibly, when we hear sensational reports. Christians are better off speaking about what they know to be true - the Kingdom good news.
Note: The "Kingdom good news" concerns Jesus Christ.
Acts 28:23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening.
Page 23: Many found the next talk, "Coping With 'a Thorn in the Flesh,'" very comforting and uplifting. It helped them see that despite the ongoing trials we may face, Jehovah can strengthen us by means of his holy spirit, his Word, and our Christian brotherhood. Much encouragement was derived from the personal experience of the apostle Paul in this regard.
Note: The Watch Tower has again forgotten Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Pages 23-24: The first day ended with the talk "keeping in Step With Jehovah's Organization." Three areas in which God's organization has particularly moved ahead were considered: (1) the increasing comprehension of spiritual light from Jehovah. (2) the ministry that God has entrusted to us, and (3) the timely adjustments in organizational procedures.
Note: The Watch Tower has been in error numerous times since God does not change.
Malachi 3:6 "For I am the LORD, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob."
Page 24: After a consideration of the daily text, the second day of the convention continued with the symposium "Ministers of God's Word." The first part drew attention to the present success of our global preaching work. Our endurance in this work, however, is challenged by the majority, who reject the Kingdom message.
Note: The "Kingdom message" concerns Jesus Christ.
Acts 28:30-31 Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.
Page 24: The second part reminded the conventioners that Jehovah's Witnesses strive to reach people everywhere, both formally and informally. And the last part described the broad spectrum of ways in which all Christians can expand their personal ministry. The speaker stressed that in order to do this, we should give God's Kingdom top priority, even if doing so involves the inconvenience and self-denial. - Matthew 6:19-21.
Correction: True Christians give Jesus Christ top priority in their lives.
Colossians 1:18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
Page 25: He stressed that whatever our economic situation, happiness depends on our relationship with Jehovah and on our spiritual well-being.
Note: Are you in love with Jesus Christ?
John 14:21 "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him."
Page 25: Many were deeply moved by the points presented in the talk "Giving God No Cause for Shame." The fact that Jehovah never forgets his faithful Witnesses was emphasized. The peerless example of Jesus Christ - who "is the same yesterday and today, and forever" - will help many to continue running the race for life with endurance. - Hebrews 13:8.
Note: The fact that Jesus Christ never forgets his faithful Witnesses is Scriptural.
Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
Page 25: Moreover, when baptized they become ordained ministers of the good news, deriving much joy from knowing that they are sharing in sanctifying Jehovah's name. - Proverbs 27:11.
Correction: True ministers of God preach salvation so that people are saved or sanctified.
Romans 15:15-16 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God, that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the good news of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
Page 25: Pointed counsel was given in the talk "Maturity Needed 'to Distinguish Both Right and Wrong.'" Worldly standards of right and wrong are woefully inadequate. We therefore need to rely on Jehovah's standards. (Romans 12:2)
Note: Mature Christians are growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 3:17-18 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
Note: The Watch Tower is a wicked organization since it does not give glory to Jesus Christ.
Pages 25-26: All were encouraged to work hard to gain an accurate understanding of God's ways and to grow to maturity. Then, with practice our perceptive powers will be trained "to distinguish both right and wrong." - Hebrews 5:11-14.
Note: Mature Christians are growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 4:11-13 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
Page 26: Next came the symposium "Work Hard at Cultivating Spirituality." True Christians recognize the importance of developing and maintaining spirituality. This involves hard work - reading, studying, and meditating. (Matthew 7:13, 14; Luke 13:24)
Correction: True Spirituality will not be hard work or drudgery.
Matthew 11:29-30 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Page 26: The importance of developing a warm, loving relationship with Jehovah like that enjoyed by an obedient child with a kind father was also stressed. We do not simply have a religion - although it is the true one - but we want to build strong faith, 'as seeing God.'
- Hebrews 11;6, 27.
Correction: The true religion of Christendom teaches that all believers will be in heaven.
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
Pages 26-27: Then came the symposium "Zephaniah's Meaningful Prophecy for Those Doing God's Will." The three talks of this symposium showed that, as he did in the days of wayward Judah, Jehovah will bring distress upon those who now refuse to heed his warning. Because they sin against God, they will walk about as helpless as blind men, unable to find deliverance. True Christians, however, faithfully keep seeking Jehovah, and they will be concealed in the day of God's anger.
Note: Are you seeking Jesus Christ for deliverance?
Galatians 1:3-5 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Page 27: They have the blessed opportunity to speak the "pure language" of Bible truth. (Zephaniah 3:9) The speaker noted: "Speaking the pure language involves not only believing the truth and teaching it to others but also harmonizing our conduct with God's laws and principles.
Note: True Christians have been "born again." Have you been "born again"?
1 Peter 1:22-25 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because "All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the LORD endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.
Page 27: The drama set the tone for the follow-up talk, "Do Not Become Forgetful Hearers." An analysis of 1 Corinthians 10:1-10 showed that Jehovah tests our obedience to determine our worthiness to receive an inheritance in the new world. For some, fleshly desires crowd out spiritual goals even now, close to our entry into the new system. All were encouraged not to forfeit the opportunity to 'enter into Jehovah's rest.' - Hebrews 4:1.
Note: True Christians have already entered into "Jehovah's rest."
Hebrews 4:10 For he who has entered (past tense) His rest has himself also ceased (past tense) from his works as God did from His.
Page 28: There was one exception. In 1940, Hayden C. Covington - then the Society's legal counsel and one of the "other sheep," with the earthly hope - was elected a director of the Society. (John 10:16) He served as the Society's vice president from 1942 to 1945.
Correction: You can't have "one flock" unless all the sheep are in one place in heaven.
John 10:16 "And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be (future tense) one flock and one shepherd."
Note: The "other sheep" are Gentiles.
Romans 3:29-30 Or is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also, since there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.
Page 28: This important step in bring the organization into theocratic alignment came at the end of the "two thousand three hundred evenings and mornings," mentioned at Daniel 8:14. At that time, "the holy place" was "brought into its right condition."
Correction: This prophecy concerns to the defeat of Antiochus IV by the Maccabees.
Daniel 8:12-13 Because of transgression, an army was given over to the horn to oppose the daily sacrifices; and he cast truth down to the ground. He did all this and prospered. Then I heard a holy one speaking; and another holy one said to that certain one who was speaking, "How long will the vision be, concerning the daily sacrifices and the transgression of desolation, the giving of both the sanctuary and the host to be trampled under foot?"
One of the great generals in Jewish history, Judas, with a few thousand followers, defeated several numerically superior Syrian armies in succession (166-165). In December 165, he led his insurgent army into Jerusalem, purified the Temple, which had been used for Greek rites during the preceding three years, and restored Jewish rites. This purification and restoration is commemorated by the Jewish festival called Hanukkah. Judas next began extensive military campaigns against the enemies of the Jews in and around Judea. As a result, Syria recognized the religious liberty of the Jews (163). Funk & Wagnalls Encyclopedia, Volume 16, page 285.
Page 30: In 1944, Article II of the charter of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania was amended to underscore the objectives of this corporation. According to the charter, the purposes of the Society include this principal purpose: "To preach the gospel of God's kingdom under Christ Jesus unto all nations as a witness to the name, word and supremacy of Almighty God JEHOVAH."
Correction: True Christians will preach Jesus Christ and His name.
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God (which person?) the Father through Him.
Page 30: Since 1926 'the faithful slave' has brought Jehovah's name to the fore. Especially noteworthy was 1931 when the Bible Students adopted the name Jehovah's Witnesses. (Isaiah 43:10-12) Publications of the Society that have laid emphasis on God's name include the books Jehovah (1934), "Let Your Name Be Sanctified" (1961), and "The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah" - How? (1971).
Note: Jehovah's Witnesses are eternally condemned religious people. How sad.
John 3:18 He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.