WATCHTOWER - AUGUST 15, 2000

 

Page 4: It is understandable that students of human nature reach such conclusions. Their only subjects for study are men and women born "with error" and "in sin," according to the inspired record of the Bible. (Psalm 51:5)

Note: The only remedy for sinful mankind is Jesus Christ and not your righteousness.

Romans 3:22-26 For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

 

Page 4: Even the Creator himself, appraising imperfect man millenniums ago, "saw that the badness of man was abundant in the earth and every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only bad all the time." - Genesis 6:5.

Note: The Creator marveled at the unbelief of people.

Mark 6:6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.

 

Page 5: What should be the first step toward the eradication of hate? A change of attitudes. "True change can come only from the volition of the peoples involved," observed McGeary.

Correction: True Christians have received Jesus Christ into their lives and are changed by God.

John 1:12-13 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

 

Page 5: Experience has shown that the most powerful, most motivating, and most enduring influence against the development of hate comes from God's Word, the Bible. This is because "the word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword and pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints and their marrow, and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12.

Correction: The Bible points to God as the source of salvation not the works of mankind.

Hebrews 4:2-3 For indeed the good news was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. For we who have believed do enter that rest, as He has said: "So I swore in My wrath, 'They shall not enter My rest,'" although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

 

Page 5: Admittedly, the uprooting of prejudice and hatred does not occur automatically, nor does it happen overnight. But it can be done.

Correction: Sincere belief will lead to repentance that results in eternal change for the better.

Acts 2:37-38-9 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call."

 

Page 6: Furthermore, Jesus instituted a way of pure worship that would eventually embrace thousands of the previously excluded and hated Gentiles. (Galatians 3:28)

Note: Pure worship involves sincere believe by faith in Jesus Christ.

Galatians 3:22 But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

 

Page 6: People from all around the then known world became followers of Jesus Christ. (Acts 10:34, 35) These individuals became known for their surpassing love. (John 13:35)

Note: True followers of Jesus Christ will love Him and be loved by the Father as a result.

John 14:23 Jesus answered and said to him, "If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."

 

Page 6: When hate-filled men stoned to death Jesus' disciple Stephen, his final words were: "Jehovah, do not charge this sin against them." Stephen wanted the best for those who hated him. - Acts 6:8-14; 7:54-60.

Note: Stephen was praying to Jesus Christ.

Acts 7:59-60 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, " Lord, do not charge them with this sin." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

 

Page 6: Modern-day true Christians have similarly responded to Jesus' counsel to do good, not just to their Christian brothers, but even to those who hate them. (Galatians 6:10)

Note: Modern-day like first century true Christians suffer for the name of Jesus Christ.

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 6: They are working hard to eliminate malicious hatred from their lives. Recognizing the powerful forces that can engender hatred within them, they take positive action and replace hatred with love.

Correction: True Christians will be abiding in Jesus Christ who causes people to love.

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 6: The apostle John stated: "Everyone who hates his brother is a manslayer, and you know that no manslayer has everlasting life remaining in him." (1 John 3:15) Jehovah's Witnesses believe that. As a result, they are now being integrated - from all ethnic, cultural, religious, and political backgrounds - into one united, hate-free community, a genuine global brotherhood.

Correction: True Christians know and show love through Jesus Christ who died for them.

1 John 3:16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

1 John 3:23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.

 

Pages 6-7: God purposes that all vestiges of hatred will soon be removed from the earth. This will take place under the rule of the heavenly government for which Jesus taught us to pray: "Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth." - Matthew 6:9, 10.

Correction: Has the spiritual kingdom of God arrived for you yet?

Romans 14:16-17 Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

 

Page 7: Now even better news! There is irrefutable evidence that we are living in "the last days." Thus, we can be confident that very soon we will see ungodly hatred vanish from this earth. (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Matthew 24:3-14)

Note: The Watch Tower is violating Scripture.

Acts 1:6-7 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, "Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" 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 7: In God's promised new world, a genuine spirit of brotherhood will exist because humankind will have been restored to perfection. - Luke 23:43; 2 Peter 3:13.

Note: Are you in the spiritual brotherhood now?

Galatians 3:28-29 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

 

Page 10: Having been on a number of such projects now, he adds: "This reinforces in my mind that with Jehovah's backing his people can erect a building anywhere on this earth, regardless of how isolated or difficult the site may be. Sure, we have many talented men, but it is Jehovah's spirit that makes it possible."

Correction: The Spirit of truth will be a witness of Jesus Christ not of buildings.

John 15:26 "But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me."

 

Page 10: God's spirit also moves the Witness families in the islands to provide food and accommodations, which, for some, is quite a sacrifice. And it is deeply appreciated by those who receive such hospitality.

Correction: The Holy Spirit moves people to be 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 12: From the time that sin entered into the world, it has brought the pain of guilt, alienation from God, and helplessness. Relief from these is needed. It is easy to understand that when people find themselves in such a desperate state, they feel the need to turn to God for help.

Note: Reconciliation and peace with God is only through Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

 

Page 12: The first Bible record of offerings being made to God is in connection with Cain and Abel. We read: "It came about at the expiration of some time that Cain proceeded to bring some fruits of the ground as an offering to Jehovah. But as for Abel, he too brought some firstlings of his flock, even their fatty pieces." (Genesis 4:3, 4)

Note: There is no remission of sins apart from the shedding of blood.

Hebrews 9:22 And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.

 

Page 12: Next, we find that Noah, preserved by God through the great Flood that destroyed the wicked generation of his day, was moved "to offer burnt offerings upon the altar" to Jehovah.

Note: This was symbolic of Jesus Christ who died for the sins of the world.

Revelation 5:6 And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.

 

Page 12: On several occasions, God's faithful servant and friend Abraham, moved by God's promises and blessings, 'built an altar and called on the name of Jehovah.'

Note: True Christians call on the name of Jesus Christ.

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 12: Later, Abraham met the greatest test of his faith when he was told by Jehovah to offer his son Isaac as a burnt offering. (Genesis 22:1-14)

Note: Abraham and Isaac are symbolic of God the Father and the Son.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."

 

Pages 12-13: When Adam sinned, he did so deliberately. His taking and eating the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and bad was an intentional act of disobedience. The penalty for that disobedient act was death, as God had clearly stated: "In the day you eat from it you will positively die." (Genesis 2:17) Adam and Eve eventually reaped the wages of sin-they perished.

Correction: They died spiritually, emotionally, and later physically.

Genesis 3:8 And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Genesis 5:5 So all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years; and he died.

 

Page 13: However, Jehovah is a God not only of justice and power but also - in fact, primarily - of love. (1 John 4:8, 16) So he takes the initiative to heal the breach. After stating that "the wages sin pays is death," the Bible goes on to say, "but the gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:23.

Note: You can not pay or work for a gift, especially from God.

Romans 5:15 But the free gift is not like the offense. For if by the one man's offense many died, much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many.

 

Page 13: Abel had faith in God's promise of a Seed to bring about the salvation of faithful humans. It was not revealed to him how that would be worked out, but God's promise made Abel aware that someone would have to be bruised in the heel. Yes, he apparently concluded that blood would have to be shed - the very idea of sacrifice.

Correction: God set the example by shedding blood for the making of clothes.

Gen 3:21 Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of skin, and clothed them.

 

Page 14: The profound significance of sacrifice was made dramatically clear when Jehovah commanded Abraham to offer up his son Isaac as a burnt offering. Although that sacrifice was not literally carried out, it served as a picture of what Jehovah himself would eventually do - offer up his only-begotten Son as the greatest sacrifice ever in order to accomplish His will toward mankind. (John 3:16)

Note: As Abraham and Isaac are human, likewise the Father and the Son are God.

John 10:28-30 "And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one."

 

Page 14: "Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices," says the apostle Paul. (Hebrews 8:3) Note that Paul divides the offerings made by the high priest of ancient Israel into two categories, namely, "gifts" and "sacrifices," or "sacrifices for sins." (Hebrews 5:1) People generally give gifts to express affection and appreciation, as well as to cultivate friendship, favor, or acceptance. (Genesis 32:20; Proverbs 18:16)

Note: The old covenant has been made obsolete thanks to the death of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 8:13 In that He says, "A new covenant," He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.

 

Page 14: Similarly, many of the offerings prescribed by the Law can be viewed as "gifts" to God to seek his acceptance and favor. Transgressions of the Law required restitution, and to make amends, "sacrifices for sins" were offered.

Correction: True Christians do not use the Law for seeking acceptance from God.

Galatians 3:23-25 But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.

 

Page 17: Does this mean that the material in the Pentateuch regarding offerings and sacrifices is of no value to Christians today? As a matter of fact, over the span of a little more than a year, individuals enrolled in the Theocratic Ministry School in the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide recently read through the first five books of the Bible. Some have struggled to read and understand all the details. Has all their effort been in vain?

Answer: YES! If you miss Jesus Christ, you have missed eternal life.

Hebrews 9:9-11 It was symbolic for the present time in which both gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience; concerned only with foods and drinks, various washings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation. But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.

 

Pages 17-18: The question, then, is, What "instruction" and "comfort" can we glean from that body of information in the Law regarding offerings and sacrifices?

Answer: If you miss Jesus Christ, you have missed eternal life.

Hebrews 9:12 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.

 

Page 18: Rather, Jesus came with a body prepared by his heavenly Father, one that corresponded in every respect to the one God prepared when He created Adam.

Correction: Biblical restoration is greater than the offense. Jesus Christ was greater than Adam.

Exodus 22:1 "If a man steals an ox or a sheep, and slaughters it or sells it, he shall restore five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep."

Exodus 22:4 "If the theft is certainly found alive in his hand, whether it is an ox or donkey or sheep, he shall restore double."

Note: Jesus Christ was the perfect God-man.

Matthew 1:23 "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."

 

Page 19: Hence, while the Israelites had a temporary means of approach to God by their sacrifices, Christians have a superior basis for coming to God - the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Note: True Christians have been sanctified through Jesus Christ not their works.

Hebrews 10:10 By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

 

Page 19: If we exercise faith in the ransom sacrifice provided by God and obey Him, we too can have our sins forgiven and enjoy God's favor and blessing. (John 3:17, 18)

Note: Have you exercised faith in the name of Jesus Christ through sincere belief?

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."

 

Page 19: After explaining that Christians have a superior basis for approach to God, the apostle Paul outlines, as we read at Hebrews 10:22-25, three ways in which we can demonstrate our faith and appreciation for God's loving provision. Even though Paul's admonition was directed chiefly to those who have "the way of entry into the holy place" - that is, anointed Christians with a heavenly calling - surely all humanity need to pay attention to Paul's inspired words if they want to benefit from Jesus' propitiatory sacrifice. - Hebrews 10:19.

Note: Obviously, 1 Peter was not written for the vast majority of Jehovah's Witnesses.

1 Peter 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

 

Page 19: First, Paul urges Christians: "Let us approach with true hearts in the full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from a wicked conscience and our bodies bathed with clean water." (Hebrews 10:22)

Note: True Christians have the "full assurance" of being in heaven. Do you?

2 Corinthians 5:1 For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

Note: Obviously, 2 Corinthians was not written for the vast majority of Jehovah's Witnesses .

 

Page 19: Do we, therefore, appreciate the importance of always maintaining a clean standing before Jehovah? If we want our worship to be acceptable to God, we must be swift about correcting any infractions of God's laws.

Note: The Watch Tower has placed Jehovah's Witnesses under the bondage of the Law.

Galatians 3:1-2 O foolish Galatians (Jehovah's Witnesses)! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified? This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

 

Page 20: All of this draws attention to one fact: Jehovah is holy, and he does not condone or approve of sin or corruption of any kind. (Habakkuk 1:13) Worship and sacrifices rendered to him must be clean and undefiled - physically, morally, and spiritually. - Leviticus 19:2

Note: The Watch Tower has placed Jehovah's Witnesses under the bondage of the Law.

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.

 

Page 20: We should never think that as long as we are having some share in Christian meetings and in the ministry, it does not matter what we do in our private life. We also should not feel that participation in Christian activities somehow excuses us from the need to abide by God's laws in other areas of our life. (Romans 2:21, 22)

Note: The Watch Tower has placed Jehovah's Witnesses under the bondage of the Law.

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 20: In writing to the Hebrews, Paul next calls attention to a vital aspect of true worship: "Let us hold fast the public declaration of our hope without wavering, for he is faithful that promised." (Hebrews 10:23) The expression "public declaration" literally means "confession," and Paul also speaks of "a sacrifice of praise." (Hebrews 13:15) This reminds us of the type of sacrifice that men like Abel, Noah, and Abraham offered.

Correction: True Christians will confess Jesus Christ publicly.

Rom 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 21: Recall that a distinctive feature of the burnt sacrifice was that the entire offering was consumed on the altar - a fitting symbol of total devotion and dedication. Correspondingly, we demonstrate our faith in the ransom sacrifice and our gratitude for that provision when we willingly and wholeheartedly offer our "sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips," to Jehovah.

Correction: True Christians will preach Jesus Christ publicly.

Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.

 

Page 21: While Christians do not offer literal sacrifices - animal or vegetable - they do have the responsibility to bear witness to the Kingdom good news and to make disciples of Jesus Christ.

Note: The "Kingdom good news" is about 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 21: Do you take advantage of opportunities to share in publicly declaring the good news of God's Kingdom so that many more people can come to know the wonderful things God has in store for obedient mankind?

Note: The Watch Tower has placed Jehovah's Witnesses under a curse from God.

Galatians 1:8-9 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. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other good news to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

 

Pages 21-22: This reminds us of Jesus' promise: "Where there are two or three gathered together in my name, there I am in their midst." (Matthew 18:20) Every time we attend a Christian meeting, we benefit from the upbuilding association, the encouraging instruction, and from the thought that our Lord Jesus Christ is present with us. That makes a Christian meeting a truly joyous and faith-strengthening occasion.

Note: Jesus Christ is only with those who love Him. Do you love 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 22: What makes Christian meetings particularly joyous is that we not only receive instruction but also offer praise to Jehovah. This we do by participating - with our humble but best effort - in singing heartily, listening attentively, and commenting when possible. "Praise Jah, you people!" exclaimed the psalmist. "Sing to Jehovah a new song, his praise in the congregation of loyal ones." - Psalm 149:1.

Note: A new song will be sung by "the congregation of loyal ones" to Jesus Christ in heaven.

Revelation 5:9-10 And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."

 

Page 22: We are living when the "shadow of the good things to come" has been replaced by "the very substance of the things." (Hebrews 10:1) Jesus Christ, in the role of the great antitypical High Priest, has already entered into heaven itself and presented the value of his own blood to make atonement for all those exercising faith in his sacrifice. (Hebrews 9:10, 11, 24-26) On the basis of that great sacrifice and by wholeheartedly offering to God our sacrifices of praise that are clean and undefiled, we too can go forward "rejoicing and feeling merry of heart," looking ahead to bountiful blessings from Jehovah. - Malachi 3:10.

Correction: You can never earn favor with God through your righteousness.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; We all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Note: Have you placed your faith in Jesus Christ through sincere belief?

Romans 4:13 For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

 

Page 23: In stark contrast stands the truism: "As a city broken through, without a wall, is the man that has no restraint for his spirit." (Proverbs 25:28) Who of us would want to make ourselves vulnerable to the invasion of wrong thoughts that can cause us to act in improper ways - ways that can bring harm to others and to us? Uncontrolled, angry responses can do just that.

Note: True Christians will thank the Father in the name of the Son in the power of the Spirit.

Ephesians 5:18-21 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.

 

Page 24: It will require humility, or lowliness of mind toward one another, because God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones." (1 Peter 5:5) The way we treat fellow worshipers has a direct bearing on our relationship with God. - 1 John 4:20.

Correction: In context, you can not save yourself. Only Jesus Christ is the Savior.

1 John 4:14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world.

 

Page 25: It is true that we cannot control others' feelings, but we can do our part to promote peace. Rather than being subject to our own imperfect responses or those of others, we can act now to apply well-founded Bible principles. Handling differences in the way that Jehovah instructs us to will result in our everlasting peace and happiness. - Isaiah 48:17.

Correction: In context, you can not redeem yourself. Only Jesus Christ is the Redeemer.

Isaiah 48:17 Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go.

Galatians 3:13-14 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree"), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

 

Page 26: In a similar way, all Christians start off as spiritual babes. But in time, all can "attain to the oneness in the faith and in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to a full-grown man, to the measure of stature that belongs to the fullness of the Christ." (Ephesians 4:13)

Note: Not personally knowing Jesus Christ will result in dire consequences for you.

Matthew 7:23 "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'"

Matthew 25:12-13 "But he answered and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."

Matthew 11:27 Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.

 

Page 27: A spiritual babe is easily "tossed about as by waves and carried hither and thither by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in contriving error." Paul thus urged: "Let us by love grow up in all things into him who is the head, Christ." (Ephesians 4:14, 15) How does one do so?

Answer: By recognizing that you cannot save yourself. Only Jesus Christ can save you.

Ephesians 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

 

Page 27: Even so, you can do much to facilitate your spiritual growth by personal study - especially of the deeper things of God's Word. In recent times The Watchtower has discussed many deep subjects. Mature ones do not shy away from such articles because they contain "some things hard to understand." (2 Peter 3:16) Rather, they eagerly devour such solid food.

Correction: The Watchtower is not Jesus Christ. Have you spiritually feasted on Jesus Christ?

John 6:35 And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

 

Page 27: Jesus directed his disciples: "Go therefore and make disciples of people 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 the things I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20)

Note: The name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit is Jehovah!

 

Page 27: At times, the pressures of life can make finding the time to preach challenging. Yet, by 'exerting yourself vigorously' as a preacher, you demonstrate the importance you attach to the "good news." (Luke 13:24; Romans 1:16) You may thus be viewed as "an example to the faithful ones." - 1 Timothy 4:12.

Note: Are you ashamed to preach Jesus Christ?

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the good news of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

Luke 9:26 "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels."

 

Page 27: Integrity involves wholeness, or completeness, of heart devotion. David told his son Solomon: "Know the God of your father and serve him with a complete heart."

Note: True Christians will be serving Jesus Christ.

Romans 1:1 Paul, a bondservant (slave) of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God

 

Page 27: Keeping integrity involves being "no part of the world," staying out of the politics of the nations and their wars. (John 17:16)

Correction: Being "in the world" refers to the condition of unsaved people.

1 Corinthians 5:10 Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters,

Ephesians 2:1-3 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.

 

Page 28: A full-grown Christian is also loyal. As we read at Ephesians 4:24, the apostle Paul exhorts Christians: "Put on the new personality which was created according to God's will in true righteousness and loyalty." In the Greek Scriptures, the original-language word for "loyalty" carries the thought of holiness, righteousness, reverence. A loyal person is devout, pious; he carefully observes all his duties toward God.

Correction: In context, true Christians are faithful to Jesus Christ and are renewed in the mind.

Ephesians 4:20-24 But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

 

Page 28: Recognizing that Christ is the appointed Head of the Christian congregation, mature Christians are loyal to those appointed "to shepherd the congregation of God." (Acts 20:28)

Correction: True Christians will be faithful to Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus:

Note: Mature Christians will realize that Jesus Christ is God.

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 28: You should also feel a sense of loyalty to "the faithful and discreet slave" and the agencies that are used to disseminate spiritual "food at the proper time." (Matthew 24:45) Be quick to read and apply the information found in The Watchtower and its companion publications.

Correction: True Christians will be faithful to Jesus Christ not a corporation based in N.Y.

Matthew 24:44-45 "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season?"

 

Page 28: Growing in love is an especially important aspect of spiritual growth. Jesus said, as recorded at John 13:35: "By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves."

Note: Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ or of a corporation based in New York?

 

Page 28: For example, at Romans 15:7, we read: "Welcome one another." One way to show love is by greeting your fellow believers and newcomers at congregation meetings - warmly and enthusiastically! Get to know them personally. Take a "personal interest" in others.

Note: True Christians have welcomed Jesus Christ into their lives. Have you?

Revelation 3:20 "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me."

 

Page 28: The imperfections of others can sometimes test the depth of your love, but as you learn to 'put up with them in love,' you demonstrate that you are becoming full-grown.-Ephesians 4:2.

Note: Full-grown Christians are focused on Jesus Christ and are not given over to WT doctrines.

Ephesians 4:14-15 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head; Christ;

 

Pages 28-29: Mature Christians today joyfully use their assets to support Jehovah's worship. Imitate such ones by following the principle at 1 Corinthians 16:1, 2, regularly 'setting something aside' to contribute to the congregation and to the worldwide work of Jehovah's Witnesses. God's Word promises: "He that sows bountifully will also reap bountifully."

- 2 Corinthians 9:6.

Note: True Christians will give so that the "good news of Christ" will be proclaimed.

2 Corinthians 9:12-14 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God, while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the good news of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men, and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you.

 

Page 29: Do not overlook other assets that you possess, such as your time and energy. Try to 'buy out time' from less important activities. (Ephesians 5:15, 16; Philippians 1:10) Learn to be more efficient with your use of time. Doing so may make it possible for you to participate in Kingdom Hall maintenance projects and other similar activities that promote Jehovah's worship.

Note: Do you "buy out time" in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit?

Ephesians 5:18-21 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.

 

Page 29: Men and women who are studious and knowledgeable, who are zealous preachers, who are flawless in their integrity, who are loyal and loving, and who are willing to lend physical and material support to the Kingdom work are truly a great blessing. No wonder, then, that the apostle Paul exhorted: "Now that we have left the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to maturity"! - Hebrews 6:1.

Correction: Mature Christians have the assurance of being in the Kingdom of God.

Hebrews 6:19-20 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

John 6:37 "All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out."

John 6:47 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life."

 

Page 29: Shoulder your full load of Christian responsibility. With time and effort, you too can "attain to the oneness in the faith and in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to a full-grown man, to the measure of stature that belongs to the fullness of the Christ." - Ephesians 4:13.

Note: Have you come to a accurate knowledge of the Son of God?

Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

 

Page 31: The overall message of the Bible indicates that "the delight of Jehovah," mentioned at the end of the verse, centers on carrying out his purpose by means of the Kingdom.

Correction: The King of kings will carry out the purposes of the Father.

Revelation 19:15-16 Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

 

Page 31: Jehovah's doing this will vindicate his sovereignty and will allow for inherited sin to be removed from obedient humans - our sins. (Acts 4:24; Hebrews 2:14, 15; 1 John 3:8)

Correction: The will of the Father is salvation to those who have placed their trust in the Son.

John 3:17 "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."

John 6:40 "And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day."

 

Page 31: The key to all of this is that God's Son had to become a human and provide the ransom sacrifice.

Note: The Son of God is of the same "substance" as God the Father.

Philippians 2:5-7 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

 

Page 31: As we know, in the process Jesus did suffer. The Bible tells us that he "learned obedience from the things he suffered." So Jesus did receive benefit from that suffering. - Hebrews 5:7-9.

Correction: Jesus Christ as man learned obedience but as God is the source of eternal salvation.

Hebrews 5:6-11 As He also says in another place: "You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek"; who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear, though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, called by God as High Priest "according to the order of Melchizedek,"

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