₦airaland Forum

uchkochi:
God does not make mistake. Abraham slept with Hagar to give birth to Ishmael but that did not stop the promised child ISAAC from coming. In fact Ishmael coming before Isaac only signifies that something bad had to first leave for something good to come. What this means is that Abraham had some immoral gestures inside him, that was why he first lied about Sarah being his sister, someone with those tendencies can't produce the promise. No wonder Ishmael came signifying that all his bad characters are over. Then Isaac was born. Today your own promise by God will be fulfilled.

Amen

sonmvayina:
Using logic and reason in an argument with a stupid person is like trying to explain quantum physics to a person who is half drunk. Because both have convinced themselves they are sober, no matter what facts are presented. In their warped brains, its about their belief and what they are hung up on. Indeed, you really can't fix stupid. ����������

The fool says in his heart that there is no God

sonmvayina:
Well, maybe the God you worship... Definitely not the creator of the Universe....

Agent of the devil


Jesus is the only God

UceeGod:
The spirit controlling you is certainly not from Christ

Gbam!

sonmvayina:
It is a very interesting story/"epic.. Those who are interested can read it in the enuma Elish which preceeded the Bible by thousands of years.. The Bible writers drew their inspiration from it...

Keep deceiving yourself

SIGNS OF THE END OF THE AGE

Hear the words of the Lord himself

3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him wprivately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”

4 And Jesus answered them, "See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.

7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.

8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.

9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. 11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.

12 And because​ lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony unto all nations, and then the end will come.

Repent and Accept Jesus now!

Halleluyah

Janosky:
You no get sense....
Jesus is in heaven when Isaiah ,9:6, calls him "Son who has been given," ,"Prince of Peace", Isaiah was written before Jesus birth on earth.
He is a son in heaven before & after his earthly life.
Rev 3:5,12
"
Emphasis on "Son" & Prince:
I)) The son "given" by who?

Ii)) Every Prince has a Father, who is the Father of your "Everlasting Father"?

Therefore your interpretation of "Everlasting Father" & Son in person" is grossly off key and off point.

See how you dishonestly omitted Isaiah Calling Jesus Mighty God

Jesus is God, now check Deuteronomy 6:4 which says God is one. Antichrist jws have two Gods against scriptures

You will die in your sins if you don't believe Jesus is He

theoriginalgood:
You asked a question, of course God is the only one who sits on his own throne. He is good, but there are also other Saints/Angels with him. They all sit together.

Inhabitants of this Earth cannot know this because they are not in heaven with God (the leader) and the rest of the Saints.

People claim to be creations of God, but isn’t God good and perfect? How can humans claim to be in his image? God definitely is holy and pure. He does not have a body that sweats, produces odor, urinates, butt hole or even private parts. He is not perverted. He sits on a throne of pure holy glory, not a toilet seat where he farts, defecates and has to wipe away feces from his buttocks.

You need to know!

Really? Lol I like your human 'wisdom'

Read Genesis 1:26

God actually formed man after himself

God manifests physically as man

Matthew 23:33-39



33 “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?

34Therefore I am sending you prophets and sages and teachers. [Only Elohim sends prophets, sages and teachers]. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town.

35And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar.

36Truly I tell you, all this will come on this generation. [Only Elohim speaks with such authority and precision]

37 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. [This is the clearest, only Elohim gathers people like a hen gathers her chicks, remember how elohim gathered the Hebrews from Egypt to the promised land, that Elohim is Jesus Christ]


38Look, your house is left to you desolate.

39For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’ [Jesus came down from heaven. He was God and still is God]

I pray you understand, Glory

If a man is born of God, he does not continue sinning.

ichuka:
The name Father and Son are merry titles created in the Godhead/by God to achieve His divine purpose here on earth.
If you study philips2-5-7 you will know that the Son and the Father are equal in the Godheamd.the tittle is merry for recovery.
Because in the created world/universe OBEDIENT was missing.
And obedient isn't in the constituent of God ( you can't give or create what you don't have) why is that? Because God don't know how to obey.only command/gives order.
So for the world/universe to be complete/FINISH Obedient has to created in the universe.
Which was done by Gods Son(remember it's a tittle)
On the cross of Calvary when he said IT IS FINISH John19:30
The creation in Genesis was very good but incompletely till Calvary.
We need to ask for more Grace to Knowv Him and His revelation Power .

Jesus is Lord

Halleluyah

Maximus69:
Well you demanded for ONE, so i'll show you just one.

LordReed is an atheist, though himself and i have always been on opposite sides as i often prove to him that ATHEISM is also a religion on it's own.

Atheists know how true Christians pass information and how stringent we are with our beliefs, they know that Jehovah's Witnesses are the one and only group that gives them headache whenever they try to ridicule FAITH.

He never waited a minute before telling all of you that this is one of those worthless rumours from propagandists/antagonists trying to criticise us and it's just a lie!

JWs and atheists are birds of a feather

True believers don't need the opinion of atheists to validate their faith

Adjustments to Our Teachings and Beliefs:
After much heartfelt deliberation and prayer, we are no longer under the belief that the Gentile Times spoken about in Daniel Chapter 4 ran its prophetic course and concluded at the beginning of our 20th Century. Previously, we have asserted that this period of time commenced in the year 607 B.C.E. and concluded about the fall of 1914 C.E. We now believe this to be in error. After much research and study, we have come to realize that this teaching is one which arose as a central aspect of the 19th Century Adventism which so influenced our founder, Charles Taze Russell and his early associates and continued to be promoted throughout much of our history. While at times we have endeavored to understand the prophetic teachings of Daniel and Revelation with regard to the time that God’s rulership would be “trampled upon by the nations,” and made certain calculations coinciding to this period, we must admit that this adventist practice entails human speculation without sound scriptural basis.

We continue to maintain that the advent or coming of Christ Jesus is to be expected by the faithful and possibly not too far in our future. And while we continue to believe that there are many events and conditions which seem to signify that we may indeed be in the last days spoken of by our lord, we must in humility admit that we do not know for certain either that we are yet in the time of the nations or when the end of this system of things may be expected. (See Matt. 24:3, 2 Tim. 3:1, Lev. 26:40, Matt. 25:13)

It is with this new understanding that we must embrace that the year 1914 C.E. has no scriptural prophetic significance. In the past, we have held firmly to the belief that 1914 C.E. signified Christ’s invisible return and the beginning of the last days including the restriction to the Earth’s vicinity of Satan and the demons. (Revelation 12: 7-12) Many times, we have sought a greater understanding of the meaning of Jesus words regarding the generation that “would not pass away” at Matthew 24:34. Although these attempts to understand the meaning of the scripture were undoubtedly sincere, they were predicated upon the understanding that 1914 C.E. was a significant year in fulfillment of biblical prophecy. In light of our adjusted understanding, we must further state that we do not know the modern-day identification of that generation, if there is one, or whether Jesus intended a greater meaning than what he purposed to convey to his immediate followers when he uttered those words.

Consequently, we must now acknowledge that we have been overly presumptuous in identifying the “faithful and discreet slave” spoken of by Jesus (Matthew 24:3, 45; Mark 13:3, 4) as being closely identified with the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Previously, we have stated that the Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible, however, now we must further clarify that the Governing Body has no claim to the fulfillment of Jesus’s illustration and no special role in providing divine truths or teachings to the household, which is Jehovah God’s people. In the future, the Governing Body will continue to focus on providing spiritual food to the best of our ability, but with no claims of special authority or divine directive.

Turning now to another important matter, we wish to discuss an adjustment in the way that members of the congregation are treated in circumstances involving commission of serious sin and other transgressions against others or against Jehovah’s laws and principles. Previously, these matters have been handled with some confidentiality by the local body of elders. At times, it was deemed necessary that a brother or sister, who was understood to be unrepentant or otherwise potentially a hazard to the welfare of the congregation, would be disassociated or disfellowshipped from the association of Jehovah’s Witnesses. (1 Cor. 5:13)

However, a consideration of the theocratic procedure outlined at Matthew 18:15-17, reveals the proper steps that members of the congregation should undertake when faced with a fellow member who has committed a serious sin. As clearly outlined, the first step should be to confront privately and directly the person who has committed such a serious sin. This need not be done in any formal way, nor by the Elders of the congregation solely, nor does there need to be more than one person confronting the errant member, as Matthew 18:15 clearly shows this to be a personal endeavor to correct the sinning member of the congregation. As stated in the continuing verse, only after the unrepentant member persists in wrongful conduct or belief should it further be endeavored with the help of one or two others to correct the matter. Only after these attempts have been made to correct the sinning member of the congregation, should the matter be set before the whole congregation. As Matthew 18:17 clearly states, the whole matter should be spoken about before the whole congregation in an open and frank discussion. This is because each member of the congregation will bear the personal responsibility of whether they wish to continue in brotherly fellowship with the person or whether they wish to treat the person as someone who stands outside of the congregation. In ancient Israel, it was similar that each member of the congregation would have a hand in rendering the judgment and carrying out any discipline that might result. (Deut. 17:7)

Therefore, after the matter has been spoken about to the whole congregation, each person as an individual, must decide for him or herself whether to continue in association with the wrongdoer. It may be that some will choose not to continue any association with such a person and it may be that others may decide that they may continue associating with the person. In either case, it is not for anyone to judge the conscience of another. (1 Cor. 10:29, Rom. 2:1-16) Special care should be taken not criticize the decisions of others in these matters with the solemn recognition that every person shall ultimately be accountable to Jehovah God for his or her own life decisions and course of conduct. (Romans 14: 1-23)

At this time, we must discuss the treatment of a very serious issue within our worldwide association, namely, the matter of child sexual abuse. While we have at times acknowledged that Jehovah’s people have not escaped the scourge of child sexual abuse and that there have been some instances of this occurring even among Jehovah’s Witnesses, it must now be confessed that in some serious ways we have failed to protect the flock at times. In no small part, this was due to insistence that there be at least “two witnesses” of serious wrongdoing within the congregation. (Deut. 17:6; 19:15, John 8:17, 2 Cor. 13:1, 1 Tim 5:19) And at other times, over-concern for the reputation of the congregation, discouraged our brothers from appealing to outside authorities or even reporting these matters to the lawful authorities. (2 Pet. 2:2)

While this scriptural principle is generally sound in many cases, it must be admitted that in typical circumstances involving child sexual abuse, it is unlikely that a second witness will arise or that the one committing such abuse will confess to his or her actions. We therefore, deem it only reasonable that the procedures as outlined above in Matthew 18 in dealing with persons who are or who have committed serious sins, be followed in situations involving allegations of child sexual abuse but with the sensible modification that the sinner need not first be confronted by the victim and that in any open discussions of such matters the sensitivity of the victims and young members of the congregation be considered. Additionally, and more importantly, while it is up to the congregation to deal with sin of the matter, it is not up to the congregation to deal with the crime, if any, of the matter. Congregation Elders and members of the congregation are neither trained nor equipped to deal with allegations or instances of child sex abuse as a matter for the congregation only. IN ALL INSTANCES OF CHILD SEX ABUSE, APPROPRIATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ARE TO BE CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY. It is these superior authorities that must investigate and ultimately render civil and criminal justice in these situations and only they who can make any determinations about the criminality of the situation.

We realize that there are many within our worldwide brotherhood and many who are now outside of it, who have been terribly hurt by this issue and by our general failings in this area. We can only offer our utmost and heartfelt apology at this time and resolve that going forward these matters will be treated in the appropriate way.

Regarding the issue of accepting blood transfusions and blood components. We hereby announce that henceforth these matters will be one of personal conscience.

Regarding the issues of military service, alternative military service, political or civic affairs, law enforcement careers and other similar matters, these also we believe to be a matter of individual conscience.

Brothers and Sisters, these matters discussed above are only a few of the most important changes which we felt crucial to convey to you at this time. We intend to address each of these matters and many other adjustments to our beliefs and organization more fully and in depth in future issues of the Watchtower over the coming year as well as on our website JW.ORG.

We thank you in advance for your patience and hope that you welcome these changes with a loving and generous spirit.

Reorganization of the Local Congregation

As expediently as possible, all local Kingdom Halls will be deeded over to the individual congregations. The local congregation should immediately begin to take steps to form itself into an individual legal entity in order to take ownership of the property. Where there are more than one congregation currently sharing the Kingdom Hall, only one legal entity need be created in order to take legal ownership of the property. Help from the Legal Desk is available and a separate letter to the Body of Elders is following containing more information about this adjustment.

Within thirty days of this letter, each congregation should meet together as a group and elect among itself a “Body of Elders” to serve in a leadership capacity of the local congregation. It is advised that the local body be comprised of no less than five members, if possible and no more than twelve, however this is only a suggestion to the congregation. The exact composition of each Elder Body, the selection of Ministerial Servants, or other helpers is to be decided upon by the entire congregation in democratic order. It should be noted that these leadership positions are to be deemed open to all whom the local congregation consider are suitable and not to be restricted on the basis of gender, age, nationality, sexuality or other such factors.

The Body of Elders are hereby directed to immediately permanently dispose of all publisher record cards and are further directed to keep no official rolls of the membership of the local congregation. For use at the local level in matters of practicality, the Body of Elders may keep unofficial lists including contact information of the friends. More information regarding this adjustment will follow in a separate Body of Elders letter.

With regard to the hallmark facet of our Worldwide Brotherhood, namely that of public and house-to-house ministry, we are in preparation of a series of study articles of the Watchtower for your consideration. While it cannot be denied that over the history of Jehovah’s modern day organization, the techniques of spreading the Good News about God’s Kingdom through our public ministry and individual proselytizing has resulted in the gathering of many persons to the faith, it must also be acknowledged that these methods are no longer the most effective. Indeed, there are many brothers who have spent a life-time in full-time pioneer work or otherwise devoted countless hours to their ministry with not more than a few non-family members every accepting the Good News and choosing to dedicated their lives to Jehovah God.

Rather than continuing to burden our brothers and sisters with onerous requirements to engage in the public ministry and continuing to create an atmosphere and culture of perfection and service which can never be met and which seems more often to result in feelings of self-doubt, guilt and even depression, that the focus on becoming a person of high moral character and joyful in life will draw others who may be interested to inquire of us the reasons for our joy and exceptional attitude and character. (Matt. 5:16, Psalm 4:6)

As will be discussed in future study editions of the Watchtower and as information in future letters to the congregations that follow will discuss, we are entering into a great revolution of our Worldwide Association of Christian Jehovah’s Witnesses. We purpose to return our brotherhood to a time which more closely resembles the early beginnings of our organization as Bible Students, with a return to local control many of the ordinary facets of our worship, including determining the time, place and manner of the gatherings of the congregation. A future study article of the Watchtower which may be considered only as a suggested model of the organization of local meetings of the congregation is in preparation for your consideration.

Reorganization of the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Dear Brothers, it is with great joy and anticipation that we announce to you now a grand restructuring of the various branch offices of the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses including the Worldwide Headquarters at Warwick, New York (“Watchtower”).

Henceforth, Watchtower will continue to serve the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the following ways:
• Continuing to create and publish various publications, including the Watchtower* and Awake! magazines, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, various other Bible based literature including several planned commentaries on the scriptures and other publications. Hardcopies of these publications will be available for purchase from Watchtower by the individual and many will be freely available on JW.ORG
• Continuing to produce and publish various written and video content for our internet broadcast and website JW.ORG
• The training of missionaries to serve in foreign lands to spread the Good News of God’s Kingdom. • The training of traveling speakers which may be requested by local congregations to visit and deliver talks on prepared bible subjects.
• The organization and coordination of annual assemblies which individuals or congregations as a whole may choose to attend.

*Please note that the Watchtower will no longer be considered mandatory study material as a congregation after the last planned study-version of the Watchtower containing discussion of the changes and adjustments mentioned in this letter. [Time to be determined.] While we believe that the articles will continue to prove to be fortifying and educational, the individual congregations will organize how to structure their weekly gatherings and the materials to be considered as a congregation.

We thank you in advance for your attention to the contents of this letter and we hope that you embrace these adjustments to our Worldwide Brotherhood in the same generous spirit as you have always expressed in the past. We believe that the future of our worldwide association is strong provided that we continue to grow and mature and progress in our greater understanding of Jehovah’s God’s purposes and activity.

Please accept our love and tender greetings.
Your brothers,
The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses

C: enclosures
TGA/el/o21

Jehovah's Witnesses changes doctrinal beliefs, Accepts blood transfusion
July 28, 2019


The Governing Body stated in the letter: "We
Jehovah's Witnesses changes doctrinal beliefs, Accepts blood transfusion
July 28, 2019


After decades of doctrinal embargo placed on blood transfusion for medical purposes for its members, the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses- the leadership group overseeing the religion's activities wordwide has finally made a U-turn, reversing its stance on the matter.
In a letter to all its Congregations (Kingdom Halls) worldwide on Thursday, the Governing Body tacitly approved blood transfusion for medical purposes for adherents of the religion.
It is on record that a significant number of Jehovah's Witnesses who had medical condition requiring blood transfusion for treatment died because they or their guardians refused blood transfusion because of religious belief.

Also, the age-old dogma that Jesus Christ (second coming) returned invisibly to earth in 1914 has been discarded, saying that it has no sound scriptural basis.

The Governing Body stated in the letter: "We now believe this to be in error... we must admit that this adventist practice entails human speculation without sound scriptural basis."

Document barring Jehovah's Witnesses from accepting blood transfusion

While admitting that the doctrinal changes may prove disconcerting to believers whom have been hurt or lost their loved ones because of earlier stance on blood transfusion, the Governing Body admonished them to embrace the changes with the spirit of love and forgiveness.

Read the full Letter here: THE GREAT ANNOUNCEMENT

[Instructions to the Body of Elders: Please read this letter in full at the time designated in the accompanying instruction letter. Please endeavor to have all baptized active Witnesses present for the reading of this letter.]

To the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses,
Greetings!
“There is an appointed time for everything, A time for every activity under the heavens” (Eccl. 3:1)

We are writing to you at this time to convey to you a number of fundamental changes being implemented at this time. We recognize that some of these adjustments may prove disconcerting to our brothers and sisters. We trust that a spirit of love and forgiveness will ensure all to make the transitions detailed here. (Romans 12:2)

Adjustments to Our Teachings and Beliefs:
After much heartfelt deliberation and prayer, we are no longer under the belief that the Gentile Times spoken about in Daniel Chapter 4 ran its prophetic course and concluded at the beginning of our 20th Century. Previously, we have asserted that this period of time commenced in the year 607 B.C.E. and concluded about the fall of 1914 C.E. We now believe this to be in error. After much research and study, we have come to realize that this teaching is one which arose as a central aspect of the 19th Century Adventism which so influenced our founder, Charles Taze Russell and his early associates and continued to be promoted throughout much of our history. While at times we have endeavored to understand the prophetic teachings of Daniel and Revelation with regard to the time that God’s rulership would be “trampled upon by the nations,” and made certain calculations coinciding to this period, we must admit that this adventist practice entails human speculation without sound scriptural basis.

We continue to maintain that the advent or coming of Christ Jesus is to be expected by the faithful and possibly not too far in our future. And while we continue to believe that there are many events and conditions which seem to signify that we may indeed be in the last days spoken of by our lord, we must in humility admit that we do not know for certain either that we are yet in the time of the nations or when the end of this system of things may be expected. (See Matt. 24:3, 2 Tim. 3:1, Lev. 26:40, Matt. 25:13)

It is with this new understanding that we must embrace that the year 1914 C.E. has no scriptural prophetic significance. In the past, we have held firmly to the belief that 1914 C.E. signified Christ’s invisible return and the beginning of the last days including the restriction to the Earth’s vicinity of Satan and the demons. (Revelation 12: 7-12) Many times, we have sought a greater understanding of the meaning of Jesus words regarding the generation that “would not pass away” at Matthew 24:34. Although these attempts to understand the meaning of the scripture were undoubtedly sincere, they were predicated upon the understanding that 1914 C.E. was a significant year in fulfillment of biblical prophecy. In light of our adjusted understanding, we must further state that we do not know the modern-day identification of that generation, if there is one, or whether Jesus intended a greater meaning than what he purposed to convey to his immediate followers when he uttered those words.

Consequently, we must now acknowledge that we have been overly presumptuous in identifying the “faithful and discreet slave” spoken of by Jesus (Matthew 24:3, 45; Mark 13:3, 4) as being closely identified with the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Previously, we have stated that the Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible, however, now we must further clarify that the Governing Body has no claim to the fulfillment of Jesus’s illustration and no special role in providing divine truths or teachings to the household, which is Jehovah God’s people. In the future, the Governing Body will continue to focus on providing spiritual food to the best of our ability, but with no claims of special authority or divine directive.

Turning now to another important matter, we wish to discuss an adjustment in the way that members of the congregation are treated in circumstances involving commission of serious sin and other transgressions against others or against Jehovah’s laws and principles. Previously, these matters have been handled with some confidentiality by the local body of elders. At times, it was deemed necessary that a brother or sister, who was understood to be unrepentant or otherwise potentially a hazard to the welfare of the congregation, would be disassociated or disfellowshipped from the association of Jehovah’s Witnesses. (1 Cor. 5:13)

However, a consideration of the theocratic procedure outlined at Matthew 18:15-17, reveals the proper steps that members of the congregation should undertake when faced with a fellow member who has committed a serious sin. As clearly outlined, the first step should be to confront privately and directly the person who has committed such a serious sin. This need not be done in any formal way, nor by the Elders of the congregation solely, nor does there need to be more than one person confronting the errant member, as Matthew 18:15 clearly shows this to be a personal endeavor to correct the sinning member of the congregation. As stated in the continuing verse, only after the unrepentant member persists in wrongful conduct or belief should it further be endeavored with the help of one or two others to correct the matter. Only after these attempts have been made to correct the sinning member of the congregation, should the matter be set before the whole congregation. As Matthew 18:17 clearly states, the whole matter should be spoken about before the whole congregation in an open and frank discussion. This is because each member of the congregation will bear the personal responsibility of whether they wish to continue in brotherly fellowship with the person or whether they wish to treat the person as someone who stands outside of the congregation. In ancient Israel, it was similar that each member of the congregation would have a hand in rendering the judgment and carrying out any discipline that might result. (Deut. 17:7)

Therefore, after the matter has been spoken about to the whole congregation, each person as an individual, must decide for him or herself whether to continue in association with the wrongdoer. It may be that some will choose not to continue any association with such a person and it may be that others may decide that they may continue associating with the person. In either case, it is not for anyone to judge the conscience of another. (1 Cor. 10:29, Rom. 2:1-16) Special care should be taken not criticize the decisions of others in these matters with the solemn recognition that every person shall ultimately be accountable to Jehovah God for his or her own life decisions and course of conduct. (Romans 14: 1-23)

At this time, we must discuss the treatment of a very serious issue within our worldwide association, namely, the matter of child sexual abuse. While we have at times acknowledged that Jehovah’s people have not escaped the scourge of child sexual abuse and that there have been some instances of this occurring even among Jehovah’s Witnesses, it must now be confessed that in some serious ways we have failed to protect the flock at times. In no small part, this was due to insistence that there be at least “two witnesses” of serious wrongdoing within the congregation. (Deut. 17:6; 19:15, John 8:17, 2 Cor. 13:1, 1 Tim 5:19) And at other times, over-concern for the reputation of the congregation, discouraged our brothers from appealing to outside authorities or even reporting these matters to the lawful authorities. (2 Pet. 2:2)

While this scriptural principle is generally sound in many cases, it must be admitted that in typical circumstances involving child sexual abuse, it is unlikely that a second witness will arise or that the one committing such abuse will confess to his or her actions. We therefore, deem it only reasonable that the procedures as outlined above in Matthew 18 in dealing with persons who are or who have committed serious sins, be followed in situations involving allegations of child sexual abuse but with the sensible modification that the sinner need not first be confronted by the victim and that in any open discussions of such matters the sensitivity of the victims and young members of the congregation be considered. Additionally, and more importantly, while it is up to the congregation to deal with sin of the matter, it is not up to the congregation to deal with the crime, if any, of the matter. Congregation Elders and members of the congregation are neither trained nor equipped to deal with allegations or instances of child sex abuse as a matter for the congregation only. IN ALL INSTANCES OF CHILD SEX ABUSE, APPROPRIATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ARE TO BE CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY. It is these superior authorities that must investigate and ultimately render civil and criminal justice in these situations and only they who can make any determinations about the criminality of the situation.

We realize that there are many within our worldwide brotherhood and many who are now outside of it, who have been terribly hurt by this issue and by our general failings in this area. We can only offer our utmost and heartfelt apology at this time and resolve that going forward these matters will be treated in the appropriate way.

Regarding the issue of accepting blood transfusions and blood components. We hereby announce that henceforth these matters will be one of personal conscience.

Regarding the issues of military service, alternative military service, political or civic affairs, law enforcement careers and other similar matters, these also we believe to be a matter of individual conscience.

Brothers and Sisters, these matters discussed above are only a few of the most important changes which we felt crucial to convey to you at this time. We intend to address each of these matters and many other adjustments to our beliefs and organization more fully and in depth in future issues of the Watchtower over the coming year as well as on our website JW.ORG.

We thank you in advance for your patience and hope that you welcome these changes with a loving and generous spirit.

Reorganization of the Local Congregation

As expediently as possible, all local Kingdom Halls will be deeded over to the individual congregations. The local congregation should immediately begin to take steps to form itself into an individual legal entity in order to take ownership of the property. Where there are more than one congregation currently sharing the Kingdom Hall, only one legal entity need be created in order to take legal ownership of the property. Help from the Legal Desk is available and a separate letter to the Body of Elders is following containing more information about this adjustment.

Within thirty days of this letter, each congregation should meet together as a group and elect among itself a “Body of Elders” to serve in a leadership capacity of the local congregation. It is advised that the local body be comprised of no less than five members, if possible and no more than twelve, however this is only a suggestion to the congregation. The exact composition of each Elder Body, the selection of Ministerial Servants, or other helpers is to be decided upon by the entire congregation in democratic order. It should be noted that these leadership positions are to be deemed open to all whom the local congregation consider are suitable and not to be restricted on the basis of gender, age, nationality, sexuality or other such factors.

The Body of Elders are hereby directed to immediately permanently dispose of all publisher record cards and are further directed to keep no official rolls of the membership of the local congregation. For use at the local level in matters of practicality, the Body of Elders may keep unofficial lists including contact information of the friends. More information regarding this adjustment will follow in a separate Body of Elders letter.

With regard to the hallmark facet of our Worldwide Brotherhood, namely that of public and house-to-house ministry, we are in preparation of a series of study articles of the Watchtower for your consideration. While it cannot be denied that over the history of Jehovah’s modern day organization, the techniques of spreading the Good News about God’s Kingdom through our public ministry and individual proselytizing has resulted in the gathering of many persons to the faith, it must also be acknowledged that these methods are no longer the most effective. Indeed, there are many brothers who have spent a life-time in full-time pioneer work or otherwise devoted countless hours to their ministry with not more than a few non-family members every accepting the Good News and choosing to dedicated their lives to Jehovah God.

Rather than continuing to burden our brothers and sisters with onerous requirements to engage in the public ministry and continuing to create an atmosphere and culture of perfection and service which can never be met and which seems more often to result in feelings of self-doubt, guilt and even depression, that the focus on becoming a person of high moral character and joyful in life will draw others who may be interested to inquire of us the reasons for our joy and exceptional attitude and character. (Matt. 5:16, Psalm 4:6)

As will be discussed in future study editions of the Watchtower and as information in future letters to the congregations that follow will discuss, we are entering into a great revolution of our Worldwide Association of Christian Jehovah’s Witnesses. We purpose to return our brotherhood to a time which more closely resembles the early beginnings of our organization as Bible Students, with a return to local control many of the ordinary facets of our worship, including determining the time, place and manner of the gatherings of the congregation. A future study article of the Watchtower which may be considered only as a suggested model of the organization of local meetings of the congregation is in preparation for your consideration.

Reorganization of the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Dear Brothers, it is with great joy and anticipation that we announce to you now a grand restructuring of the various branch offices of the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses including the Worldwide Headquarters at Warwick, New York (“Watchtower”).

Henceforth, Watchtower will continue to serve the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the following ways:
• Continuing to create and publish various publications, including the Watchtower* and Awake! magazines, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, various other Bible based literature including several planned commentaries on the scriptures and other publications. Hardcopies of these publications will be available for purchase from Watchtower by the individual and many will be freely available on JW.ORG
• Continuing to produce and publish various written and video content for our internet broadcast and website JW.ORG
• The training of missionaries to serve in foreign lands to spread the Good News of God’s Kingdom. • The training of traveling speakers which may be requested by local congregations to visit and deliver talks on prepared bible subjects.
• The organization and coordination of annual assemblies which individuals or congregations as a whole may choose to attend.

*Please note that the Watchtower will no longer be considered mandatory study material as a congregation after the last planned study-version of the Watchtower containing discussion of the changes and adjustments mentioned in this letter. [Time to be determined.] While we believe that the articles will continue to prove to be fortifying and educational, the individual congregations will organize how to structure their weekly gatherings and the materials to be considered as a congregation.

We thank you in advance for your attention to the contents of this letter and we hope that you embrace these adjustments to our Worldwide Brotherhood in the same generous spirit as you have always expressed in the past. We believe that the future of our worldwide association is strong provided that we continue to grow and mature and progress in our greater understanding of Jehovah’s God’s purposes and activity.

Please accept our love and tender greetings.
Your brothers,
The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses

C: enclosures
TGA/el/o21
now believe this to be in error... we must admit that this adventist practice entails human speculation without sound scriptural basis."

Document barring Jehovah's Witnesses from accepting blood transfusion

While admitting that the doctrinal changes may prove disconcerting to believers whom have been hurt or lost their loved ones because of earlier stance on blood transfusion, the Governing Body admonished them to embrace the changes with the spirit of love and forgiveness.

Read the full Letter here: THE GREAT ANNOUNCEMENT

[Instructions to the Body of Elders: Please read this letter in full at the time designated in the accompanying instruction letter. Please endeavor to have all baptized active Witnesses present for the reading of this letter.]

To the Worldwide Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses,
Greetings!
“There is an appointed time for everything, A time for every activity under the heavens” (Eccl. 3:1)

We are writing to you at this time to convey to you a number of fundamental changes being implemented at this time. We recognize that some of these adjustments may prove disconcerting to our brothers and sisters. We trust that a spirit of love and forgiveness will ensure all to make the transitions detailed here. (Romans 12:2)






Typing...

Matthew 25:31 ►

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.

John 14:8-9

NKJV

8 Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.”
9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? lHe who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?



Praise Jesus!

Janosky:
If you truly believe John 3:16,John7:16, you won't make that statement.

I have NOT sinned by referring to the very words of My Messiah, Jesus Christ.

I stand on the authority of Jesus Christ words in

John3:16, John7:16,Jesus Christ is saying you're VERY STUPID

These are the words of Jesus Christ
John 14:8-9

NKJV

8 Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.”
9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? lHe who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?


I pray the Lord grants you understanding

malvisguy212:
the question I will like to ask you guys, if Jesus is just a man, why will He compare himself with God ? It would be absurd for a mere man to say, "God the Father is greater than I am." If Jesus were not Himself God, how could He compare Himself with the Father? it is blasphemous for a creation to compared himself with the creator.

the Bible made it clear that when Christ came to earth He laid down His Glory and the splendor that was rightly His and take up the role of a servant.

the Father is greater than I refers to Jesus in His Messianic office, not to the essential nature of the Godhead. being greater than your son do NOT mean that your son is less human. the comparison is refer to POSITION and not NATURE . It was Christ owning His place as Servant, and magnifying the One ( GREATER IN POSITION) who had sent Him.

God bless you

The Lord Jesus Christ will judge the world

But who is judge but God?


Jesus Will Be Our Judge

The story is told about a man who came before a judge after he had committed a crime. When the man saw the judge, he was happy. The judge had been his defender (Lawyer) in an earlier case. When the judge sentenced the man to prison, he asked: “Don’t you remember who I am? I am the man you defended many years ago. How can you sentence me to prison now? The judge replied: “In the earlier case, I was your defender (Lawyer). It was my desire to set you free. Now, I am your judge and I must judge you fairly according to the law.”

The same is true of Jesus. Now He is our Saviour and Mediator (Matthew 1:21; Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 2:5). His salvation is available to all who are willing to obey His will (Matthew 7:21-23. Hebrews 5:8-9). However, the time is coming when He will be our Judge. The first time, Jesus came to save. The next time He will come to judge (Hebrews 9:27-28).


John the baptizer was the first to tell us Jesus would be our judge (Matthew 3:12). Paul tells us every person will stand before Christ to be judged (2 Corinthians 5:10). Whether we are rich or poor, black or white, short or tall, Asian, African, European, or American, we will all be judged (2 Timothy 4:. Paul also tells us that Christ is a righteous judge (2 Timothy 4:. The Bible says all judgment has been given to him (John 5:22). The Bible also shows us a picture of the Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46). The fact that Jesus will be our Judge must be preached to the world (Acts 10:42; Romans 2:9-16). Jesus will judge us according to the Gospel (John 12:48; Romans 2:9-16). All people will be judged fairly (Acts 10:34-35; Colossians 3:24-25).
Jesus is qualified to be our Judge. He knows what is in our hearts (John 2:24-25; Revelation 2:23). Because Jesus is God and knows our hearts, He is able to be a just and righteous Judge of all the world (Acts 17:30-31).


There is a great day coming! It is a day when everyone in the world will be judged. Jesus will be the Judge. In order for us to go to Heaven, we must obey God’s will (John 14:15; Romans 6:17-18; 1 John 5:3). By the grace and mercy of God we can be saved (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). If we do not obey, we will be sent to Hell (Matthew 7:13-14; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Matthew 25:46).
Are you prepared to meet Christ as Judge? You must have Christ as your Saviour now in order to be ready to meet Him as your Judge in the Last Day. In order for Him to be your Saviour, you must believe in Him, repent of all your sins, confess your faith in Him, and be buried with Him in baptism and raised to walk in new life (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37; Romans 6:3-5). Have you done these things? If not, why not do them today?


Jesus is Lord God Almighty!

MrPresident1:
Jesus himself is the law of Moses

He is the lord of the sabbath

Moses wrote about YHWH
He authored how YHWH created all things ' saved Noah's family, rescued the Israelites from Egypt among others.Jesus during his life on earth stated clearly that, Moses wrote of him (Jesus)



John 5:46-47

46 If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. 47 But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say?”

If you believe the books of Moses, you will believe in Jesus Christ.

solite3:
Question: "What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God?"

Answer: Jesus is not God’s Son in the sense of a human father and a son. God did not get married and have a son. God did not mate with Mary and, together with her, produce a son. Jesus is God’s Son in the sense that He is God made manifest in human form (John 1:1, 14). Jesus is God's Son in that He was conceived in Mary by the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:35 declares, “The angel answered, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.’”

During His trial before the Jewish leaders, the High Priest demanded of Jesus, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God” (Matthew 26:63). “‘Yes, it is as you say,’ Jesus replied. ‘But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven’” (Matthew 26:64). The Jewish leaders responded by accusing Jesus of blasphemy (Matthew 26:65-66). Later, before Pontius Pilate, “The Jews insisted, ‘We have a law, and according to that law He must die, because He claimed to be the Son of God’” (John 19:7). Why would His claiming to be the Son of God be considered blasphemy and be worthy of a death sentence? The Jewish leaders understood exactly what Jesus meant by the phrase “Son of God.” To be the Son of God is to be of the same nature as God. The Son of God is “of God.” The claim to be of the same nature as God—to in fact be God—was blasphemy to the Jewish leaders; therefore, they demanded Jesus’ death, in keeping with Leviticus 24:15. Hebrews 1:3 expresses this very clearly, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.”

Another example can be found in John 17:12 where Judas is described as the “son of perdition.” John 6:71 tells us that Judas was the son of Simon. What does John 17:12 mean by describing Judas as the “son of perdition”? The word perdition means “destruction, ruin, waste.” Judas was not the literal son of “ruin, destruction, and waste,” but those things were the identity of Judas' life. Judas was a manifestation of perdition. In this same way, Jesus is the Son of God. The Son of God is God. Jesus is God made manifest (John 1:1, 14).

Surely flesh and blood has not revealed this to you...

God bless you

Janosky:
Gbagbo lying Pharisee equates himself with the Pharisees who Lied against Jesus....


Gbagbo is lying that when "calling God his own Father, it means Gbagbo is "making himself equal with God."

John 10:33,36 Jesus Christ throway your lie put for dustbin.
Sawdust brain Gbagbo Pharisee ,
Trinity scam dey turn you to mumu..

Why are you so vexed by this simple Truth? You will die in your sins if you don't believe I am he

Preciousgirl:
Amen

Halleluyah

John 5:17-18 English Standard Version (ESV)

17 But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.”


18 This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.



Jesus Christ is God almighty

Maximus69:
So ironic!

@bolded

If cultists have zeal for their god (Satan), is that why they should become much more zealous than those who are worshiping the most high God who energises his own servants with the holy spirit?

Just imagine, in a world where FREEDOM of speech, expression and worship has been declared by the number one world power (America) Satan's worshipers now have the boldness to witness throughout the globe as one body as in one happy global family of peace loving worshipers, whereas the worshipers of Jesus (the Prince of Peace) can't unite as one body! John 17:20

Sorry my friend, Satan has blinded and captured you outrightly! 2Corinthians 4:4

Whom are u witnessing?

Acts 1:8

1 John 3:9

1 John 4:2-3

By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world.

Acts 5:32

"And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him."


1 Corinthians 12:3

Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus is accursed"; and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit.


John 1:32-34
John testified saying, "I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove out of heaven, and He remained upon Him. "I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, 'He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' "I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God."


Matthew 3:16
After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him,


Mark 1:10
Immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opening, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him;


Luke 3:22
and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice came out of heaven, "You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased."

John 15:26
"When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me,


John 14:26
"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.


John 16:13-14
"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. "He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.


1 John 5:6
This is the One who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with the water only, but with the water and with the blood It is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.


1 John 3:24
The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us

.
1 John 4:13
By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.


1 John 5:7-10
For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater; for the testimony of God is this, that He has testified concerning His Son.

Hebrews 10:14-17
For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us; for after saying, "THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THEM AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS UPON THEIR HEART, AND ON THEIR MIND I WILL WRITE THEM,"

Romans 8:15-16
For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God,

Galatians 4:6
Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"

WHOM ARE YOU WITNESSING?


But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8, and these are the words of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Please, you can re-read in case you didn't get it. Jesus said his followers will witness him (Jesus Christ), that is a Christian. A Christian is one who witnesses Jesus. My question for you dear reader is, Whom are you witnessing? Witnessing any other being but the Lord Jesus Christ is heretic, unacceptable, sinful, rebellious, antichristian and idolatory.

There is no where in the Bible, Jesus asked us to witness our pastor, Ronaldo, Messi,,Allah, budha, Mohammed, Jehovah, Krishna, dagon, sango and the like. Witnessing any being other than the Lord God Christ Jesus makes you Antichrist, the message is still right there (Acts 1:, these are not my words.

Notice also that, Jesus said, 'when the Holy spirit comes upon you...'. whom you are witnessing thus tells who has come upon you. Note that, the holy spirit only testifies of one being, Christ Jesus. If the spirit upon you is not testifying of Christ Jesus, then he is not the Holy spirit. If the spirit upon you is testifying about another being other than Jesus Christ, then it is obvious who is upon you (We all know him, I won't mention his name to glorify him).


The Holy spirit is the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is Jesus who sent the holy spirit to testify of him,

John 15:26
"When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me. It is the Lord Jesus Christ who sends the Holy Spirit, in another verse , Jesus says the Father will send, Jesus Christ is the father (John 10:30; John 14:8-12) see
:

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you (John 14:26)


Warning to all those who belittle the Lord Jesus and say what they don't know and understand. Warning to all those who corrupt the the word of God to suit their demonic doctrines. Warning to those who do not glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. Even the Holy Spirit glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ:

"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come[b]. "He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you ([/b]John 16:13-14).

Warning to those who say Jesus is one of God's angels (Angel Michael), just one of the prophets, just a man etc; repent and accept the Lord Jesus today. Which of God's angels can send the spirit of God? Which prophet does the spirit of God takes from to disclose? If you are being true to yourself, you will acknowledge and declare the falsehood in the demonic teaching that, Jesus Christ is archangel Michael or just a prophet. Jesus Christ is God Almighty ( John 1:1; Colossians 1:16; John 20:28; Isaiah 9:6, Colossians 2:9, Phillipians 2:10, 1 John 5:20 etc)

The Holy spirit declares the Lord Jesus and none else. He glorifies Jesus. He speaks what Jesus tells him. So who is your own 'holy? Spirit' glorifying? declaring? and testifying? If it is not Jesus, then I am sorry, you have been spiritually scammed. You have been shortchanged. You are in sin. Repent!

Back to our main verse Act 1:8,

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” , kindly note that, Jesus said you will as well receive power when you receive the holy spirit. Thus, If you haven't received power, then you haven't received the Holy spirit yet. There are many that proclaim 'Jesus' but have not received the spirit of Jesus yet; so what is the barometer? Power! No wonder the Lord himself said, not all that say Lord Lord will enter the kingdom. Many antichrists today also proclaim Jesus just as many Christian wannabes who are still comfortable in their sins. Of course, there are many Jesuses but the true Jesus is an epitome of POWER (Acts 1:. But what power? Great question; power to preach the good news, praise and worship Jesus, heal the sick, raise the dead, dream dreams and see visions and keep the word of God.

If you truly have received the Holy spirit, you cannot continue sinning (1 John 3:9).

. If you have truly received the true Jesus, you will bear the fruit of the spirit: Galatians 5:22-23

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Don't be deceived by the mere mention of Jesus. The true Jesus manifests Power.


John 3 verses 14–15 reads:
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. Eternal life is in Christ Jesus, and He gives this eternal life to those that believe in him.

Witness the only true God (1 John 5:20), Jesus Christ.

Maximus69:
How many people in this world know your own Church?

You worship what you know but you are not known as witnesses of your God unlike the JWs who are globally known as zealous, industrious and fervent Witnesses of their own God! Matthew 5:14-16

Sorry is your name! James 2:18

Yes, all cultists have zeal for their god Satan, who decieves by appearing as an angel of light

Worship Jesus

midolian:
Maybe Satan!


On a serious note, It's indeed laughable to call Jesus, a slave of God, God.

May the Lord forgive you.