WT Study: Be of Good Courage Jehovah Is Your Helper!

Comment by Sargon on 2014-06-23 10:30:30

13“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to. [14]b
15“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a child of hell as you are.
23“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.
The similarities between the leadership and the Pharisees is striking. Poor ones are condemned for attempting to better their lives. They are told to grin and bear it, while the writers of the magazine have all of their needs cared for by means of the donations of the readers. The bible warns us to avoid materialism and greed. It is up to each individual Christian to decide how they apply this counsel. Like the Pharisees the watchtower dictates to us how we must serve god. They place themselves in the seat of Moses and become interpreters of the bible, placing a heavy load upon their brothers. They are not willing to budge that load in the sense that they are not forced to live in the same conditions as the people they admonish. They see their brother naked and hungry and tell them, "go keep warm and well fed."

Comment by menrov on 2014-06-23 10:34:07

John 3:17,18
NWT
For God did not send his Son into the world for him to judge the world, but for the world to be saved through him. 18 Whoever exercises faith in him is not to be judged....
I fully agree that this followup article fits the concept that it is the organisation that can determine how Jehovah will think, judge or react and even speak on behalf of Jehovah. Like the organisation is the filter between us and the Father.
How is it possible that most of JW's (myself included for a long time) do not see that this is absolutely wrong and only Jesus is our judge and that Jesus has shown the Father to us through his life on earth. Enabling us to understand how both Jesus and Jehovah are really interested in us, in our well being and how we all try to be good Christians.

• Reply by peely on 2014-06-23 11:18:49

  Menrov, when you said, "Like the organization is the filter between us and the Father", a striking comparison came to mind of my years as a Catholic when young; how the filter there is the priest who sits in the confession booth ready to tell me what God wants me to do - how many Hail Mary's and Our Father's need to be said to set things right with God. How wonderful to know that our mediator is Christ, and only him.
  Sargon said, "Like the Pharisees the watchtower dictates to us how we must serve god."
  Isa 46:5 - To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal
  And compare Me, that we should be alike?
  Gal 6:3 - For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
  How can we turn our eyes from the definitive implication of these words:
  who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 2 Thess 2:4
  The man of lawlessness appears to be identified.

Comment by Jannai40 on 2014-06-23 12:06:21

The Society do this all the time, it's one of their teaching methods - They quote a Bible principle and apply it to whatever they want the brothers to do or not to do; and because of the brothers lack of Bible knowledge and their misplaced trust in the Organisation they do as they are told believing this instruction is from Jehovah. The Organisation proves to be very controlling. How can you serve God if your are controlled by man or an Organisation?

Comment by SilverTop on 2014-06-23 20:35:40

So let me see if I've got this straight. Affluence USUALLY means that one has acquired an education that enables one to obtain a better paying job so that one does not have to do so much hard, physical labor and long hours and cut into field service time...HOWEVER...Education means the ability to think CRITICALLY and ask serious questions that require serious answers and that is the one thing the GB simply CANNOT ALLOW. UGH!!!! I'm sooooooooooo confused!
The Bible which I believe is God's word NEVER tells a parent that they are not to provide for their family. The Bible NEVER tells an individual that they can NEVER get married, have children, go to college, have a career, enjoy wholesome hobbies, go on vacations where one actually rests, or any of the myriad things that make life happy and interesting. One Scripture that constantly reverberates around my brain is this: "He whom the Son of Man makes free, is free indeed..."
The Watchtower Bible & Tract Society seeks to control, enslave, bully coerce, and intimidate its members into compliance with it's teachings whether or not those teachings are in harmony with the Scriptures
Sad situation...Sad, sad situation.
Agape,
Silvertop

• Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-23 22:19:01

  Well said!

Comment by Katrina on 2014-06-23 20:51:00

Hosea 4: 4Yet let no one find fault, and let none offer reproof; For your people are like those who contend with the priest
5So you will stumble by day, And the prophet also will stumble with you by night; And I will destroy your mother.
6My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.

Comment by on 2014-06-24 06:09:46

Ive noticed over the years they do this constantly they take a bible command or principle and while the interpretation in itself may not be wrong the application may be wrong as its applied to the wrong people or in a wrong situation .For example preach the word be at it urgently and everyone says wow thats gods will for everyone .For goodness sake it was pauls counsel to timothy a young single man with no ties .Would that really apply to a single mother struggling in a third world country to provide food for her kids .for example .They just pull these scriptures out of context and apply them in whatever way they seem fit .Whats more anyone that listens to them needs to start reading their bible properly and make their own application .otherwise they will both fall in to the pit .kev

• Reply by maxwellsmartjw on 2014-06-24 10:33:26

  I found the "crux" of the lesson in this sentence in paragraph 16:
  "My husband had to step down from serving as an elder".
  Why did he have to step down? What scripturally did he do to demonstrate he was deficient and no longer qualified to serve?
  In many of these underdeveloped countries (including Mexico), JW's are viewed primarily as an "educational" institution, secondarily as a "religion". Often those who study are of limited education, perhaps not even knowing how to read and write. Through our study programs we educate them, making it possible that they can qualify for higher paying employment. This education gives one self-respect, ability and confidence, and the realization that he/she is now in a position to provide better for their family.
  All good right? The problem surfacing is that some (perhaps many) who have become better educated (at least by the standards of their native society) see that they could earn perhaps 10 times their current income, by accepting temporary employment outside their native country.
  Our systematic method of educating people has provided options these Christians never imagined. If they apply themselves to learning within the congregation (reaching out), they are likely to be much more competent and employable than their uneducated (worldly) native counterparts. Some of these now wish to exercise their newly gained options.
  As mentioned in a comment posted for last week's lesson, I think it more likely brothers who are serving in the congregation are the focus of these 2 lessons. Clearly, the Branch (GB) has created a "policy" that auto-disqualifies an elder/MS if he or his wife accept temporary employment outside their native country. I seriously doubt that any responsible Christian who loves his family would consider moving permanently. Under the policy, if he/she leaves for only a few months at time they are deleted, they won't be used. Painting a picture that Christians are abandoning their families by moving abroad permanently is misleading. I doubt any mature Christian would consider this. The problem is one accepting temporarily work abroad, which triggers the policy forfeiting privileges.
  I'm confident those making the policy felt that threat of loss of privileges would be sufficient to discourage a brother/sister from taking temporary employment abroad. Apparently not. Some elders/MS are deciding that the trade-off is worth it. They can manage loss of theocratic privileges for a time, in exchange for the opportunity to make up to 10 times (or more) their current wage. I imagine these brothers say to themselves: "I can give up privileges for a time while I'm able to work and help pay for a home, effects, etc. Later I'll serve again".
  Since the "loss of privilege" policy is not working, the default to stop this trend is to employ peer pressure judgment. The congregation is now licensed to judge these individuals as weak spiritually, lovers of material things, placing riches before their love for Jehovah and intentionally neglecting their families and Christian obligation. The policy even encourages pressure to conform from within one's family, his/her own children can judge them.
  IMO this is a desperate strategy to stop a trend. Congregations (native and abroad) are directed by these two lessons to judge their fellow Christian. Should one not be judgmental, should one respect the conscience and good faith of the Christian who has considered the costs.... they set themselves up to be judged.
  The real danger in employing this strategy is that those (including families) who boldly move forward with plans to temporarily work abroad are viewed nearly as apostate. Knowing they will be judged by their peers, in both their native and new congregations. How many of these will likely become downhearted, discouraged, offended, and ultimately fall by the wayside? I believe the Branch views these as collateral damage and acceptable loss in desperation to stop the trend.
  In the end, when the faith of some fellow Christians do waiver, will the reason be that he/she was weak spiritually, materialistic, a lover of riches, an irresponsible parent? Or will it be the shame, dishonor, and disgrace they felt being judged by a friend and brother for trying to better their situation, especially should Armageddon delay and they grow old in this system?
  I view this as an "education" problem. As a group, JW's are likely some of the most well educated in their native countries, Certainly among blue collar labor. They have options now, and are becoming more difficult to control.
  Attending college is also an education problem. When one becomes educated he/she has options in life which makes one more difficult to control.
  The ineffectiveness of the policy to delete an elder who leaves his home temporarily has forced the GB to play the trump card, class judgment.
  Maxwell

Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-06-24 14:58:19

It is a sad sad situation indeed. I feel pity for all those blind ones being led by the blind guides. Matthew 15:14 "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit."

Comment by Milli Vanili Jr on 2014-06-28 20:00:16

Meleti Vivlon, you remind me of Satan the Devil. Asking innocent-sounding questions (is it really so....?) cunningly inquiring, I imagine you to be one of those false brothers , like Jude describes: when these people eat with you in your fellowship meals commemorating the Lord's love, they are like dangerous reefs that can shipwreck you. They are like shameless shepherds who care only for themselves. They are like clouds blowing over the land without giving any rain. They are like trees in autumn that are doubly dead, for they bear no fruit and have been pulled up by the roots. You and those like you obviously have had your feelings and pride hurt. You miss the point that God's organization has imperfect men, like Moses and Aaron, who are tasked with a difficult assignment. They, like you, make mistakes. It is all right to ask questions but when your questions are constantly aimed at parsing their words (much like high-minded Satan did in Eden) then it brazenly displays a lack of love (not to mention a pretty good-sized ego). You follow in the path of Korah, Dathan and Abiram. They seemed rather legitimate and holy (even to the rest of the assembly), perhaps more humble and deserving than Gods appointed leaders. Were their challenges to God's organization an indication that they loved God and their fellowman? Who showed more love for their brothers? Korah or his sons? Moses and Aaron -- or those wanting to stone them?

• Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-28 20:14:59

  It is interesting that you attack my motives and my character, but you do not attack my arguments. If my arguments are flawed, then please use the two-edged sword that Jehovah has provided to "discern thoughts and intentions of the heart".
  You accuse me of having "a pretty good-sized ego", but my picture is not printed in the millions and distributed around the world in hundreds of languages? My image isn't plastered on a 20' video screen and streamed to an audience in the hundreds of thousands. People do not follow my every words as if it comes directly from God. I do not demand that anyone reading my blog must accept what I say for fear of testing Jehovah in their heart. I live in anonymity and would prefer that to always be so, even after the threat to my social, economic and emotional health is removed. For I would consider my work a failure if anyone were to follow my words because of my person, rather than because they are convinced for themselves of the truth by following the leading of God's inspired word.

• Reply by GodsWordIsTruth on 2014-06-29 09:26:48

  I am confused by Milli Vanili Jr's comment. I am pretty sure that when he came to this site he knew that this was not the official JW.org or a JW apologist site (I can't think of a better word) According to the GB this would be definitely considered an "Apostate " site. So if you believe that they are leading God's "organization " why are you here? My guess is that you are searching for something.....
  Meleti's article must have hit a nerve. I would love to hear a counter argument to the points that Meleti presented.
  BTW did you really call another fellow Christian brother..... Satan the Devil????

Comment by Milli Vanili Jr on 2014-06-28 20:02:40

I challenge you to put my previous post on your site...although I highly doubt you will do so.

• Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-06-28 20:15:59

  Challenge accepted.

Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-06-28 20:19:31

Manilli Vanilli Jr, May I suggest that rather than attacking the writer, you simply come to the point, and state what it is you wish to add to this discussion of the Watchtower article "Be of Good Courage Jehovah Is Your Helper!"

Comment by Mailman (@Nico_CAN_DO) on 2014-06-29 06:30:41

Good morning Meleti and to our fellow dear brothers. I found it disturbing for our WT conductor this morning to emphasize paragraph 16, “Jehovah always blesses decisions based on faith in him, but how can he bless a decision that is contrary to his will, especially when it involves needlessly giving up sacred privileges?”
Since reaching for or desiring a privilege (e.g. overseer/elder) is voluntary, where in the bible do we see a verse that stepping down from the privilege or position is automatically not according to God's will? The WT supplied Hebrews 11:6 and 1 John 5:13-15 but none of these verses would even indicate a hint that resigning from a privilege is contrary to God's will, much less a detestable thing that deserves unfavorable judgment from the Father.
Only God knows what is in the heart of a man (Luke 16:14). He rightfully knows if the decision will do good for a man and his family or not. Not being an overseer or elder makes any Christian less or automatically diminishes his standing before God. He would never forget our fine works. Heb. 6:10 states: "For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love you have demonstrated for his name, in having served and continuing to serve the saints."
WT should not impose subtly human organization precepts or understanding as though they are coming from the Father.

Comment by on 2014-06-30 19:21:57

Manilli Vanilli Jr - That is not a very nice or Christian thing to say.

Comment by Modus Vivendi on 2014-07-02 17:37:20

You said: *** "It is interesting that you attack my motives and my character, but you do not attack my arguments." **** Let it interest you all you want. Motive is where it all begins. Didn't Jesus half-brother James say that? His other half brother Jude also defines your kind, your methods and your motives. Read his entire letter and tell me whether or not you see yourself described there, your upstanding character and intentions. The Bible, Jehovah's Word should be what reproves what you are doing. If you feel in some way ‘attacked,’ then some remnant of what was once your Bible-trained conscience may in fact be the culprit. You take issue with appointed representatives who have a weighty responsibility to teach Jehovah's people. Do you truly think they are doing this for themselves? You parse every single on of their sentences through your warped, twisted view, much like Satan did in the Garden of Eden. ("Is it really so that God said...") Apparently some intelligent individuals saw some merit to what Satan did. Why, angels, in hordes, decided to follow him. Did that make Satan’s course correct? Your arguments are absolutely flawed. It does no good to go over such inherently false statements. Calling you out on your motives and twisted views seems to be doing the job nicely. Quite simply, what you do is this: you attack Jehovah's theocratically appointed representatives, just as Korah, Dathan and Abiram attacked Jehovah's servants. Just as Satan attacked Jehovah in the Garden of Eden. I have used Jehovah's sword to address your motives and character because that is what Jehovah's word also does. Hebrews 4:12 mentions that it shows up what is in the heart, it shines light on one’s true nature. Ignore what it says at your own peril. It is one’s heart, where falsehood and slander originate.
You also countered: *** "You accuse me of having “a pretty good-sized ego”, but my picture is not printed in the millions and distributed around the world in hundreds of languages? My image isn’t plastered on a 20′video screen and streamed to an audience in the hundreds of thousands." **** Yes, I know. You are not getting the attention you feel you deserve. Poor thing. When Moses was speaking before the assembly, it must have bothered Korah, Dathan and Abiram (and the rest of the 300 apostates) to no end. Why is Moses getting all the credit? What an ego! And Moses...cover up your face. Your face is shining! And if we fast forward to the first century, we see some other self-absorbed egoists. Jesus and his apostles! They should NEVER have preached and taught in front of such numerous crowds! No human should be given such attention, honor and respect right? Imagine what that did for Peter's self-esteem? Incidentally, no one should have listened to Peter and John when they preached to the crowds in the first place. No one should hang on to their every word, they're just imperfect men with nothing worthwhile to say.
You said" *** "I live in anonymity and would prefer that to always be so, even after the threat to my social, economic and emotional health is removed. For I would consider my work a failure if anyone were to follow my words because of my person, rather than because they are convinced for themselves of the truth by following the leading of God’s inspired word." *** You go ahead and remain in isolation and anonymity. I would rather people not know who you are either. Your work of trying to tear down what Jehovah has obviously blessed deserves as little attention being paid to it as possible.
Oh, by the way, very un-godly for Jehovah to speak so insultingly to that poor little serpent in Eden at Genesis 3:15. I mean, how could He be so mean! After all the serpent was so cute, so innocent...just like that little Gecko on the Geico commercials. Also, it was very un-christian for Paul to say such terrible things to the apostates in his day. I mean, that was just not very nice was it?

Comment by Modus Vivendi on 2014-07-02 17:39:12

Again, please re-accept my challenge. Thank you.

• Reply by Meleti Vivlon on 2014-07-02 18:02:26

  What challenge? If one stops to kick at every barking dog, one will never get where one is going.

Comment by imacountrygirl2 on 2014-07-02 21:26:20

Modus Vivendi, I'm not sure what your problem is. You talk as if you are a Jehovah's Witness apologist...and then you mock Jehovah!
Obviously you have something on your mind, or you would not be here. What is it that you want? Can you be specific?
Or, are you by any chance one of them there trolls I keep hearing about? Why? What do you possibly get out of it? It would be very sad if this is the high-light of your day. I would feel great pity for you.
Look, if you want to join the discussion, no body is going to bite your head off. We are all free to believe what we choose to believe, even you. Only please show some respect for others when you speak. .

Comment by Minnesota Viking on 2014-07-03 20:37:31

*** Only please show some respect for others when you speak. ***
[Part of this comment was deleted for not conforming to site guidelines. - The Moderator]
All I ask is for each one of you to read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and ask yourselves if your course conforms to what is stated there. I will be the first to admit I do not measure up either and have lots of room for improvement. The situation is this: when any individual is bad-mouthing working to undermine someone else, it leaves less time and an opportunity to build up and encourage others. Is that not so? we can either be hateful clashing cymbals (and amount to nothing) as Paul says or display love? what's it going to be? The disciple James said "with the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness...can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?"

Comment by Minnesota Viking on 2014-07-10 15:44:12

I would like to apologize for my choice of words in the last comment I made (the section you removed). I meant them as insults in the heat of the moment. In hindsight, I truly regret saying them. It wasn't right at all. So I would like to thank you for deleting those. I believe discussions should take place sensibly and respectfully and I do appreciate the actions you took as a moderator. Now, should I add anything more to the forum, I will endeavor to be more respectful in the future.

• Reply by GodsWordIsTruth on 2014-07-10 16:31:33

  I want to commend you on making the commitment to treat Meleti ( or anyone for that matter) with respect.
  We should all keep in mind that while we should stand unwaveringly for salvation issues there’s plenty of room for different ways of expressing faith. We should accept and affirm the valuable contributions that imperfect people make through Christian service. Be willing to listen respectfully to people who don’t share your point of view on an issue, yet still share faith in Christ.
  I am a patient person …. but geez! This hostile language was really trying my patience……
  Thank you for apologizing dear brother ... hopefully we can move forward.