Our Mission
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U.S. Transition to 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.
What is the purpose of the "Ask Jacqueline Network" and what can visitors expect to find on the site?
The "Ask Jacqueline Network" is a website run by a group of Christian believers who accept the Bible as the only authority and aim to offer hope and support to visitors. The site is a safe space for people to discuss the Bible and their spiritual journeys without fear of being harassed or judged. Visitors can expect to find articles, videos, and resources on a range of topics related to faith, including recovery from spiritual abuse, finding personal meaning and healing, and building a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The site does not promote any particular religion and encourages critical thinking and individual interpretation of the Bible. Visitors are free to express their opinions and engage in respectful discussions with others on the site.
This is the "Ask Jacqueline Network" There are many Authors that publish their works and "SHORT" books here.
We will assist you in working through your Spiritually abusive experience.
Some of you are adult victims of child sexual abuse by clergy of various religious organizations. We understand it is not your fault for trusting. The perpetrators and the governing bodies are at fault for hiding and failing to alert your parents to the known pedophiles in abundance among you. They are and were aware of the pedophiles but protected them.
Our sole mission is to help you start praying directly to God through Jesus Christ and not through a man or organization. To not be afraid of God or Armageddon but to accept Christ as your leader and not a governing body or a one-man founder of your former religions.
Videos posted at the end of every page are not to sway you but to let you see that other people do know something about the Bible and try to break it down also. One thing you will notice is that more people are willing to change what they formerly thought was the truth, and more people are using just the Bible, no books or magazines. We are a help site, to get your mind working to do critical thinking, not teach you what we believe but get you going to God through Jesus directly. To have a personal relationship with God and feel you don't need an organization talking to God for you.
NOTE: We have writers from different countries, so articles may reflect the experiences of that country but not another. Enjoy!
NOW THAT YOU HAVE PACKED YOUR BAGS!
by Jacqueline- Welcome
_________________________
The next section of the mission is written by Greg from Canada.
It is not our desire to indoctrinate, recruit, convert, or “save” anyone. We recognize that everyone is on an individual journey, and so their paths from their various points of origin onward to their personally envisioned destinations are going to be somewhat varied.
Quite understandably, some persons who have been adversely impacted by spiritual abuse at the hands of “Bible-Thumpers” and “Religious Terrorists” may want nothing more to do with God, the Bible, or religion. For others, it is equally understandable that their personal convictions or their worries and anxieties may compel them to try to find a new way to move through and beyond spiritual abuse while not completely abandoning their God or religious beliefs.
No matter who you are, where you’ve come from, what you’ve once believed, or what you now believe, it is our resolve to help you feel safe, welcome, and at ease here. We want everyone to find the support they need and want—nothing more, nothing less. Think of this as a buffet: pick only what you want or are willing to try; eat only as much or as little of whatever it is you want; leave what you don’t want; come back for second and third helpings of the things you like.
We believe that no matter where we currently are on our journey towards healing and recovery, we are ALL seriously interested in finding relief while we struggle to reclaim our lives and to move forward in a way that is uniquely and personally meaningful. Mourning and coming to understand the traumatic things we’ve experienced is an essential part of the healing process and so it is our desire to support and encourage as many as possible in that very personal endeavor.
Some persons may want support and assistance in letting go of many strongly programmed fears connected with religion and spirituality. Others may be hoping to pursue new and healthier spiritual avenues while allowing themselves to discover how they can free themselves from old programmed fears. We offer many kinds of resources and support along whichever route you personally find most comfortable and appealing. We hold unconditional positive regard for everyone.
One last thought: In English, the word spirituality can cause great confusion. For several centuries it has been used and misused and carries at least two distinctly separate meanings. The way in which we use the word isn’t about spirit beings, God, or religion. We use it to mean caring for one’s OWN INNER spirit of calmness, hopefulness, compassion, joy, and peace. That’s why we’ve made it our resolve to never again allow religion to get in the way of our spirituality.
Contributed by Greg Williamson, Canada- Now you have met Greg.
Jacqueline,
Want to see creature worship. The LHMM Bible Students say Russell sits are Jesus right hand. Here’s proof.
https://epiphanytruthexaminer.com/e6.html
Christopher, I rest my case. The many offshoot religions, factions, etc of Russell’s religious teachings all herald him as the Laodicean Messenger and worship him in speech as far as I can see it. Some countries can’t navigate the entire web so I posted what it says at your link. Thank you
EPIPHANY MESSENGER – WHAT POSITION IN LITTLE FLOCK?
Scriptures are cited from the King James (Authorized) Version, unless stated otherwise.
Question: What position will the Epiphany Messenger occupy in the Little Flock?
Answer: According to the Scriptures, “that servant” is the one at our Lord’s right hand, and the Apostle Paul is the one at His left, for the Bible shows that Paul, the leading brother of the Jewish Harvest, will have charge, under our Lord acting through “that servant” of the 12,000 who will be the chief ones of the 144,000. The other eleven Apostles will each have under his charge, under the Lord Jesus acting through “that servant,” of the other eleven parts of the 144,000, that is, the other eleven parts of the antitypical temple.
It would seem that the Epiphany Messenger would come next in rank after the twelve Apostles in the Kingdom, having charge under our Lord acting through “that servant” of the Great Company and Youthful Worthies. The angel of the church of Laodicea consists of “that servant” and the Epiphany Messenger; and these as the seventh angel of Revelation will trumpet forth the Truth as the seventh trumpet the whole thousand years. “That servant,” under our Lord, will give the Truth pertinent to the twelve parts of the antitypical tabernacle and the Epiphany Messenger will give the Truth pertinent to the Great Company and the Youthful Worthies during that period.
Jesus stating that the Twelve who followed Him, St. Paul taking the place of Judas, would sit upon twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of spiritual Israel and through them judging, ruling, over the twelve tribes of Millennial Israel; and the twelve gates of heavenly Jerusalem also prove that the twelve Apostles will be superior to anyone else in the Kingdom apart from our Lord and “that servant.” The Epiphany Messenger’s place, according to the above will be that of the fourteenth individual under our Lord in the Kingdom.
Lee,
I believe the way they treat people is a trial. I know I’m much stronger than many. I couldn’t care less what they say about me. They didn’t call me. Russell wrote about how dealing with the brethren is a trail in and of itself. Let’s them say what they want. Some meet online with brethren. If they ever told me that I needed to be baptized or they wouldn’t accept me then so be it. They didn’t call me. I will not leave what I believe the truth is or judge the truth based on what men say. If they don’t want me there then I’ll study by myself. But I don’t judge Russell or my beliefs based on what the brethren think. I’m shunned by my old Kingdom Hall and I couldn’t care less that when I visit that they don’t say anything to me. I’m not there for them. So tough. My ecclesia isn’t like that. If they were I’d sit there and say nothing. You’d have to put me out to get me to stop going. Some have been told that they aren’t welcome at the convention. Well I’m sorry you didn’t call me. So I’ll be there until the police show up.
My wife left JW after me, and she was baptised a bible student. They seemed shocked when asked where she learned the truth and she said from me. They never accepted me since I would not “consecrate” aka be baptised as one of them. The treatment shown her and to me after traveling all over to conventions and through her meetings with the ecclesisa pushed her away after I left myself same as JW’s. Unfortunately the treatment was similar from both sides just under different circumstances. They no longer invite me yet they still invite her and she declines yet they dont seem to understand why. Love is not conditional yet amongst groups like Jw’s and so far almost all bible students we’ve met it certainly has conditions added to it. Her family and some other Jw’s finally cut her off cause they now tell them to not associate with inactive ones. We may as well be disellowshipped now. Its sad, we only dont formally disassociate cause of her family. As for bible students, they are treating us just as bad now, unfortunately most dont know how to act cause my wife is black, we find it almost entertaining. It dont bother us though… Anyways, there are some amongst both groups who are Real, but they are few and far between. My Ecclesia is the group here on the calls 2wice a week and we travel to join together for memorial. I have found no other fellowship quite as real, even the nominal systems we have tried do not know what unconditional love actually is. The world is getting so very bad even amongst the Christian groups. Jesus said to keep on the watch and he told us what to watch for. My eyes are certainly open
Lee Anthony, I was told by more than one elder or men at the General Convention that God seems to be with the Arian Race now sister Jacqueline. It was almost hostile by some. Another sister of color was subjected to hateful speech at her ecclesia, I heard of some black sister being referred to as Where are my Nigresses at this convention.
Tonight we have recent correspondence from among the Bible Student brothers who are appalled at these things and have some encouraging words. One Bible Student brothers came on our Saturday call in and had received the same treatment but are now thriving among brothers that are considering just the Bible on Revelation.
So, I see a pattern here of the Holy Spirit it seems to push us to just God, Christ and the Bible only. And you see we are doing fine!
This discussion and learning from the Bible only have brought me to my knees in the presence of God!
God is still on the throne and pulling people out from these organizations to show us what He has really said in the Bible. Sorry, He has to punch us to get away from words of men to the WORD of GOD. But the Spirit does what works.
God heals! Amen to that!
Last night I was listening of this heaven7 tv show online. It was Finnish version of it, but it confirmed my thoughts of that nurse I met that she was sent to help me to find the right place. Here is the English version of this site
https://www.heaventv7.com/
Sweden:
https://www.himlentv7.se/
Finnish, Russia and other languages
https://www.tv7.fi/netti-tv/
Hello Jackie! Its great that you can have time with your grandchildren. It seems like that God is responding to our prayers when we dont expect it. Have a great time and enjoy.
Marjo I had good news from my doctor yesterday also. Blood pressure 113/65, I have never had high blood pressure but with so much activity I expected odd results. I have not had another stroke! All of my MRI results were unremarkable, totally clear. sometimes we go through rough patches but there is always a silver lining in there.
Christians in some parts of the world are being beheaded for Christ. Other parts extreme stress is used to take us out or sickness with family. It is futility. Only God can end this curse on mankind on the day he has determined to end it and say enough!
Romans 8:20: “For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of the One having subjected it, in hope”
I enjoyed reading about your experience. I too am finding others are just as or more loving than we were told. We were made to fear the “Worldly” people when God has subjected all humanity together.
We have been studying the fruits of the Spirit and each time we talk to each other we find out one or the other has purposely applied these fruits. When formally I just read them and never thought about consciously seeking ways to act out these fruitages. I will go so far as to say I had never had the witness of the spirit before escaping. Sad I know but the truth. Enjoying my grands and so glad the governing body attempts to destroy families is failing. God is more powerful at moving hearts. He is still on the throne.
Also, I am beginning to understand our relationship to Jesus and Jehovah now. We were created by and for them, in their image, so we sort of deal with things like they would.
My dog is here to protect me and sound an alarm if someone comes on the property. And I in turn love feed and cherish him, provide for all his needs and love to see him enjoy everything.
But I have rules, I have taught him not to run off the property barking at people and every dog that barks. He obeys that well. He has gone to obedience school so is well trained. Now with the kids here he tries to skirt my rules and revert to primal instincts. I punish him and restrict him because I know he can obey. He is my dog.
We belong to Jehovah and Jesus, they created us with free will but with boundaries. I see now why Jehovah has to be firm and if we don’t listen as Adam and Eve didn’t, to let us see for ourselves that without him we simply can’t exist for eternity. We belong to him as created persons. Got to go now and entertain the grands.
Hello everyone, I am enjoying my blessings from God a visit by my grandchildren for over a week and I will visit with them for a week. I prayed for it and He answered in a big way because He is a rich big God! So I am out of action for a bit.
Reading all the comments and enjoying.
Romans 15:7 So welcome each other, just as the Messiah has welcomed you into God’s glory. 8 For I say that the Messiah became a servant of the Jewish people in order to show God’s truthfulness by making good his promises to the Patriarchs, 9 and in order to show his mercy by causing the Gentiles to glorify God — as it is written in the Tanakh,
“Because of this I will acknowledge you among the Gentiles
and sing praise to your name.”[b]
10 And again it says,
“Gentiles, rejoice with his people.”[c]
11 And again,
“Praise Adonai, all Gentiles!
Let all peoples praise him!”[d]
12 And again, Yesha‘yahu says,
“The root of Yishai (Jesse) will come,
he who arises to rule Gentiles;
Gentiles will put their hope in him.”[e]
13 May God, the source of hope, fill you completely with joy and shalom as you continue trusting, so that by the power of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) you may overflow with hope.
Throughout the book of Romans Paul makes it clear that Christians and Jews are united is serving Yahweh. As gentiles we were grafted into the olive tree. We share the same hope. Jehovah’s Witnesses as well as some main stream religions use replacement theology declaring the prophecies regarding the nation of Israel apply to them. They declare that Christ abandoned the Jews because they rejected him. But notice what Christ himself says: Luke 13:35 New International Version (NIV)
35 Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again UNTIL YOU SAY ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’[a]”
The nation of Israel has been under divine punishment as prophesied. But the Scriptures are clear that they will at some point finally accept Christ. Our Lord will not allow his people to be exterminated when the great tribulation brings the attack on his people. Christ will return in his glory and save that nation!
Romans 11 New International Version (NIV)
The Remnant of Israel
1 I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew.
11 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. 12 But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring!
Because we have been grafted in, we have become spiritual Jews, circumcised in the heart, the Torah engraved within us., not on stone but through grace and Holy Spirit
Soon our Lord will come in all his glory for the salvation of his chosen ones, those Jew’s and Gentiles who have united together in service to Christ.
John 10:16
New International Version
I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.
These other sheep are not a secondary Christian class as Jehovah’s Witness’s proclaim.
When Jesus spoke these words the Gentiles were not yet part of his sheep. He was sent to the nation of Israel. Only after he sent Peter to Cornelius was the door opened for the Gentiles to be grafted into and become one with his chosen people. When we look at the prophecies in the Scriptures we can see this is plain Scriptural truth! We have no need to play games of symbolism and interpretation! Paul makes it plain in his book to the Romans. We have the prophecies in Ezekial, Isaiah, and others. We have the words of Jesus himself that, although they broke his heart and had to be punished, the way was still open for all those of fleshly Israel to join him and become part of his one flock with him as their shepherd.
What a glorious God we have!
I was just asked what is a Berean Bible Study as opposed to being a religion.
My answer was, as the Thessalonians and the Boreans refused to accept a new understanding without holding it up to the Bible, we too will search the scriptures diligently with prayer for Holy Spirit to see if a matter is true.
Sometimes the Spirit helps you see it is time to listen to other voices not just the doctrines and long held beliefs of the groups that sprang up after and along side the ” Miller Movement”. These odd beliefs sound so good but Jesus actually warned against these groups, anticipating their arrival.
Matt 24:3-8 appears to warn that deceivers would come and say Christ is invisible to us; but they have been told by him that He has come.
“disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains.”
World war and the French Revolution were not signs Jesus said but a beginning of birth pains only!
Many endtime dates for the end of our age is built around deception as Jesus said. It seems he knew about the great influence of the Miller Movement with new thought religions like, Seventh Day Adventist, Bible Students, Christadelphians, Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons and many more little off shoots when their prophecies failed.
These men didn’t appear to be deliberate deceivers but with the limited knowledge of the time and some arrogance they went against Jesus stated words.
” Matt. 24:36, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”
They thought they could figure out the date, but not the Son of God who knew every old testament date and said himself “I don’t know it”.
So this is my answer to why we study and aren’t keeping silent about the “Captives of a concept” doctrine of 1914, 1843 and 1874, 1925,1975 and now the Bible Students are projecting still another date 2038. They aren’t learning from the past, so are doomed to repeat it.
Abuse has resulted from these strict adherence to doctrines of men!
Abuse has a best friend! His name is “SILENCE”!shhhhhh!
I love this post. I got it off of Facebook but it says it all:
Cristãos Bereanos
Admin · February 16
Secondhand “Faith”
Hast thou faith? Have it to thyself before God (Romans 14:22).
Many, if not most of those in professing Christendom have secondhand “faith.”
It can be a wonderful thing when others share their “faith” with us; but sadly much of what many believe was simply passed to them by others, untested and unproven. The only way for faith truly to be ours is for us to go to the Scriptures themselves, to be convinced by them.
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Timothy 2:15).
Note carefully Paul’s words, “Study to show thyself …” and earlier, “Hast thou faith? Have it to thyself before God.”
God has called us into an individual faith before Himself. No one has the right to tell us what to believe, or to provide us with creeds or doctrinal statements. Our faith is to be personal, without constraint, without manipulation.
Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand (II Corinthians 1:24).
The walk of faith truly begins with freedom from the bondage of religious dominion, and finds its completion standing alone before God by personal faith. Embrace this true liberty: freedom from religion, to freedom of faith – the freedom to follow your own heart of faith wherever God may lead.
Being strong in such personal faith is what brings glory to the Father.
He [Abraham] staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God (Romans 4:20).
Do not settle for secondhand “faith,” for that is not truly faith at all – or at least it is not faith in God and in His Word – it is merely faith in men and their words. We must not merely go on what we have heard, or on our preconceived notions and supposition. God desires us to have a faith all our own, so that we may know and believe first-hand what He has said; for faith is simply taking God at His Word.
Don’t be caught up in the mimicry of a secondhand “faith.” Dare to believe God and His Word for yourself!
Hi John
I’m sure Sister Jacqueline will answer as well but I just wanted to say first of all, welcome! No John we are not Jehovah’s Witnesses but most of us have come out of the Witnesses, many for the same reasons you just asked about. Because of their misguided interpretation of certain Scriptures regarding the necessity of two witnesses to a crime they have allowed the abuse of children and have failed to report these type of occurrences to authorities. We do not condone these actions! The Bible is clear regarding the worship of idols and we would not want to belong to any church who actively does this. We are not members of any particular denomination. We are simply a group of Christians who study the Bible and put it above any man made publication. We do not follow any leader but Christ! I hope this helps answer your question and we hope you continue to come on and share more about yourself.
Dear Jaqueline,
if an elder is misusinga child, not saying the truth , supports worshipping idols
whatwould you do with him ? Are you a JW ?
Hello John and welcome. TedR expressed it well. I would first believe the child. Normally children don’t lie about abuse. They will only tell once thinking the adult will get them out of the situation. Be cautious because the abuser is killing entire families now including children rather than suffer exposure. If in the US you can ask for a detective first before calling the police. You must make sure the child can be safe along with others in that household. This is general info here because I don’t know if it is the elders child or a congregant. If a congregant call the Police! Then tell the parents. Telling the parents first, sometimes they go into denial and punish the child.
Give us more info please.
PS: sorry not to answer quickly, I am in the car with JW family going home after having a stroke 2 months ago while visiting.
Let’s hear more so others can understand how to act appropriately.
I was a witness 62 years, then associated with the Bible Students for 8 years. Now it is as Ted said, I am simply a Christian that understand now that you can go directly to God thru Jesus. I associate and listen to others on what they glean from the scriptures with help only from the Holy Spirit. Again welcome. Take Care
But Who really is a Christian?
This is the topic for this post I think. Is it a wonder that given the concept expressed in the Bible that few, only a remnant are saved, means that the general population of those looking have a wrong idea or two. It’s because of this that the Bible says “if the time had not been cut short no flesh could be saved.”
(Matthew 7:13, 14) . . .Go in through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; 14 whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.
But Who really is a Christian?
(Matthew 7:7, 8) . . .Keep on asking, and it will be given YOU; keep on seeking, and YOU will find; keep on knocking, and it will be opened to YOU. 8 For everyone asking receives, and everyone seeking finds, and to everyone knocking it will be opened. . .
(John 17:3) . . .This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ. . .
Obviously accurate or you really would not know them.
Where have the Jews gone that the promises were given to?
(Romans 2:29) . . .But he is a Jew who is one on the inside, and [his] circumcision is that of the heart by spirit, and not by a written code. The praise of that one comes, not from men, but from God. . .
(1 John 2:20, 21) And YOU have an anointing from the holy one; all of YOU have knowledge. 21 I write YOU, not because YOU do not know the truth, but because YOU know it, and because no lie originates with the truth.
This concept of who are the followers of Jesus is really quite simple to understand. Jesus was anointed king of the true Jews by God and presented himself to the “nation” of Israel. When the nation of Israel as a provision rejected Jesus, this “nation”, the “old builders” were then rejected permanently by God. Jesus left and the true Jews followed him. There were no true Jews left in the “nation” of Israel.
After Armageddon when Christ rules over the twelve tribes during the thousand years of peace, there will be only true Jews under their king Jesus, now no longer “the word of God” but the “Amen of God”.
By Paul’s day there was a great difference between the common use of the description “Jew” and what it actually referred to. In Galatians 3:28 he points this out by saying that it was incorrect to use the term “Jew” to refer to nationality, and why he combined Greek with Jew, slave with freeman, male with female; those that followed Jesus were all true Jews and Abraham’s seed. The distinguishing characteristic was that these were all circumcised of heart; they were made Jews by the condition of their heart due to their frame of mind, that of being under Yahweh’s influence, not the condition of their flesh. These true Jews followed Jesus their king, and were later called by the vernacular term “Christians”. The Bible records the title “Christian” as appearing to be providential, but says nothing about it being God given. Remember that providential refers to a [g]od-like influence and does not make specific reference to which “god”. Also note that the Bible does not state that it was from the true “God”, Yahweh. Keep in mind that while Jesus was to reveal the truth, Satan, god of this system (2 Corinthians 4:4) is actively trying to hide it.
Remembering this makes it easy to see that Satan could well have been responsible for the term “Christian” which is accepted by many Bible scholars as derogatory. The Jews of prophecy, God’s people needed to be hidden from the world by Satan if at all possible. One can see Satan did a good job with this attempt to rename them. Think about it. The followers of Jesus were in the middle of a nation that hated them, lending weight to this view of the title “Christian” being derogatory. Satan was misleading the world to think that all that was necessary to serve God was to be a member of an “organization” like the nation of Israel, which of course he knew would condemn mankind. This promoted misunderstanding of the term Jew along with concealing the true path, and has continued down to our very day.
If you keep track of noteworthy men and women who held an approved frame of mind down through time, especially since Abraham, it helps to see that when it was time to be gathered together as a chosen people it was a major land mark. This “chosen people”, the true Jews, were placed under the oversight of an organization (“nation” of Israel, “old builders”) which had the responsibility to build them up as the house of God (Matthew 21:42). However, this responsibility was not carried out, and this organization, the “nation” of Israel, rejected the new king Jesus. The “nation” of Israel was then rejected by God and the true Jews along with Jesus left.
(Galatians 3:26-29) . . .YOU are all, in fact, sons of God through YOUR faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of YOU who were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor freeman, there is neither male nor female; for YOU are all one [person] in union with Christ Jesus. 29 Moreover, if YOU belong to Christ, YOU are really Abraham’s seed, [true Jews] heirs with reference to a promise. . .
The majority of mankind believes that the nation of Israel is populated by Jews. This assumption is wrong. Remember that nationality, social circumstance or gender will not make you a Jew or a follower of Jesus, as Paul pointed out in Galatians. In Romans he explains that being a member of the nation of Israel (nationality) does not make you a Jew, nor does being able to prove you are a physical descendant of Abraham.
An interesting thing to note is Paul does not seem to realize that within his own explanation of who really is a Jew, he establishes that he was himself not a Jew until he expressed faith in Jesus as the son of God. The realization that there was a path that had existed before the nation arrived, and had briefly passed through the nation of Israel while they were to be the “builders” of the house of God, the true Jews, must have been the basis for Paul’s considerations. He now had an overview with the information revealed by Jesus. Yes there were true Jews that could be save from the provision the “nation” and Paul does refer to the synagogue of the Jew’s, these places of warship were built as a place for the true Jews. Also remember as many Bible writers who wrote under inspiration he obviously did not get the full depth of his own writing as we can now through the use of the spirit of understanding in this the time of the end.
Mankind was now in the process of becoming “ adopted sons of God”. The true Jews were now to become the “sons of God” through Jesus their king and messiah by receiving that which was promised, the token of adoption. Jesus was the provision sent by God with the “good news” that there was going to be a new administration, with him as the head. When he was rejected he left with the “remnant” of true Jews. In time, people from the nations with the right heart were added to these true Jews by a process described as “grafting”, making it possible for both those living and those who had died to be recognized as true Jews. The true Jews of Jesus’ day along with these grafted true Jews would form the twelve tribes of the thousand year reign of Christ under their Father Yahweh.
Keep in mind that the Romans and the nation of Israel were not worried about a “way of life/lifestyle” but rather a “way” of thinking, reasoning. This helps us to understand that ideas related to the concept of “way” held by the organization of the witnesses and the world in general would be hindered by their general misconception that “way” is a reference to life style. Simply living a life style is something of which almost anyone would be capable. The Bible also mentions that it was Yahweh’s “way”, again certainly not a reference to life style.
If you check the references, especially 1 Peter 12- 16, you will note you can see that the true Jews, true followers of Christ, were suffering under the title “Christians” as it was pointed out earlier, because they had become known by the world as “Christians”. Both the Romans and the nation of Israel used this name to identify and persecute those whose “way” of thinking was abhorrent to them.
(1 Peter 4:12-16) Beloved ones, do not be puzzled at the burning among YOU, which is happening to YOU for a trial, as though a strange thing were befalling YOU. 13 On the contrary, go on rejoicing forasmuch as YOU are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ, that YOU may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the revelation of his glory. 14 If YOU are being reproached for the name of Christ, YOU are happy, because the [spirit] of glory, even the spirit of God, is resting upon YOU. 15 However, let none of YOU suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16 But if [he suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel shame, but let him keep on glorifying God in this name.
Obviously to be called by the title “Christian” was a mark of great shame among the nation of Israel and the Romans. The point here is that having left the nation of Israel the true Jews should no longer take on shame from these derogatory names. Only being accused of real acts against God, such as murder or theft was significant.
***it-2 cont.
Derisive Nicknames
From the 16th century onward, this situation posed a problem for the Reformers. Since the name Christian was being used so loosely, how could they distinguish themselves from others who claimed to be Christians?
Often they simply acquiesced to the use of a derisive nickname given to them by their enemies. Thus theological opponents of Martin Luther, in Germany, were the ones that first applied his name to his followers, calling them Lutherans. Those associated with John Wesley, in England, were labeled Methodists because they were unusually precise and methodical in the observance of religious duties. Baptists at first resisted the nickname Anabaptist (meaning, “Rebaptizer”) but gradually adopted the name Baptist as a sort of compromise.
This same process was likely responsible for the adoption of the title “Christian” by those with less than a clear understanding of who they were to become through “grafting”. The wolves fulfilled their predicted role.
What about the Bible Students? They were dubbed Russellites and Rutherfordites by the clergy. But adopting such a name would have fostered a sectarian spirit. It would have been inconsistent with the reproof given to early Christians by the apostle Paul, who wrote: “When one says: ‘I belong to Paul,’ but another says: ‘I to Apollos,’ are you not simply men [that is, fleshly in outlook instead of spiritual]?” (or Christian, belonging to Jesus rather than his Father under Jesus care)(1 Cor. 3:4) Some people labeled them “Millennial Dawnists”; but Christ’s Millennial Reign was only one of their teachings. Others called them “Watch Tower People”; but that too was inappropriate, for the Watch Tower was merely one of the publications that they used to disseminate Bible truth.
Looking at the process closer to home, Rutherford claimed the title “Jehovah’s Witnesses” to separate the 144,000, “the anointed” as he described them, from those calling themselves Christian. This title “Jehovah’s Witnesses” has never been associated with any other members within their organization or associated congregation, even though it is a popular misconception that all who associate can call themselves “Jehovah’s Witnesses”. We pointed out this fact to our then elders and the response was, “yes that was the case but the general congregation of those associating was not strong enough to be told this information”. So we can see how these things happen even in our day.
In conclusion, a small group of people (true Jews) realize that the man Jesus is really God’s son and their new king. They live amongst a nation that has long been accustomed to God’s help and approval. This small group now tells those calling themselves “Jews”, that not only does the nation no longer have God’s approval, but the majority of the population have never been “Jews”. We can visualize the scene at the time: Man on the street, “yes, I have heard him express his “way” of thinking. He is one of those Christians, certainly not one of us, a Jew.” It seems fairly simple to see the setting and circumstance given the time period.
Who really is a Jew? And where have they gone?
Jesus as the last word:
“I know . . . the blasphemy by those who say they themselves are Jews and yet they are not but are a synagogue of Satan.”—Re 2:9.
So the last question to consider is, are you really a Christian, or a true Jew?
Please note that this and most of our posts are cut and paste from older writings we have done, so different type fonts and scale happen. We try to update conceptual information as needs be.
How do we recognize true Christians?
With so much sectarianism in the Christian world how do we know we have the TRUTH? Is it from doctrine? Is it one particular religious affiliation? What does the Bible truly say? Notice how John helps answer that question. 1 John 4:
4 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
So even in Johns day sectarianism has started to raise it’s head. So the first indicator of a true follower of Christ is that we must recognize Jesus as coming from God in the flesh. That he truly is Gods son.
4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
Many who claim to be Christian have fallen into the trap of worldly thinking. They feel that Jesus was just a good man or a prophet. Or they give lip service to Christ but by their actions show that they do not truly believe that he is the one who God sent to take away our sins. They fail to follow the example Christ set for us by worldly reasonings, using the grace and undeserved kindness of our Lord as an excuse for loose conduct. They go beyond Scripture by setting up legalistic rules that you must follow that although based on some Bible principles, have established a Pharisee like system of false righteousness placing a heave yoke of fear on their fellow believers.
But notice what he says next regarding true followers of Christ!
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
13 This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.
LOVE ONE ANOTHER! ACKNOWLEDGE JESUS AS THE SON OF GOD!
No mention is made here of following after the sectarian teachings of man. That you must believe this doctrine or that doctrine. We follow Christ! We follow his example of LOVE, COMPASSION and MERCY. We do this by our ACTIONS!
James tells us: James 1:27
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Righteousness before God is not determined by our belief in a certain man or organization. It is not determined by works or doctrine. It is determined by our FAITH in our Lord and our love for him, because he loves us! It is determined by our actively following his example. We serve God out of LOVE, not fear. We are loyal to Christ, not man or mans organizations! Love of God and our fellow man is the greatest commandment!
It is good to hear Franz is not taken as the last word. I have a great respect for Franz although reading the Insight on the Scriptures he could have brought many greater issues to the table of the organization long before those that got him in trouble. Yes my wife and I did wait many years hoping that the organization might embrace the truths that Franz later wrote down in the Insight on the Scripture volumes, although it seems many he did not himself get the depth of . There is a very good explanation in the “Insight on the Scriptures” of the transfer of the son of God , explaining that his son emptied himself and was transferred by God into Mary to be born in slave’s form. Obviously the son did not bring his body from Heaven, or his awareness which would have made him incarnate. He was born as a human, had to go through the same process gaining awareness as we do. Even though the article mentions that it was his life force that was transferred, and on which his identity depended, stating “only in this way could the original person return to heaven, it did not follow through the obvious carrying forward of this life force through the grave and death.
That’s why we pointed out that Franz and his writing team did not have an accurate grasp of the hope of the out- resurrection of Jesus. Yes, certainly Franz had a good mind and was a brother. But for those of us who covered enough distance to see the weakness and inaccuracy of the organization’s doctrine early in our association and would not teach these, this gives us a little different prospective on Franz. The doctrine that God from his OWN memory of you, programmed a newly created body to think like you (copy) at the time of resurrection, which is the organization’s explanation of the hope, was taught by Franz full time for many years, did for us somewhat lessen the impact that Franz was thought to have had when he did finally stand erect. This is without taking into account the many other doctrines he surly taught in doubt. Looking at the ability Franz had to think and teach he surly had an incredible effect on many lives as he preached this illogical premise for the hope of the resurrection. We are glad that before the end of his career with the organization he took a stand to help the many who are still inside this organization, even though in his book the main reason he gives for finally writing was to clear his reputation of the rumors circulating about him. It is comforting to know we are forgiven our weakness’s.
We will get the hang of this site and start to carry on these considerations in a more appropriate place.
Traveler- No one here is following Ray Franz. His video’s are posted to help expose the false teachings and organizational controls of the Society. Since he was on the GB at one time it helps to know the inner workings, at least during his time. The purpose of this site is to help ex-JW’s understand that there is life outside of the organization and that we should not follow ANY man. We appreciate his viewpoints as we do even Russell’s as long as we can prove by Scriptural examination what he or anyone else has to say. Like the Boreans we examine everything to make sure of all things from the Scriptures. Any viewpoints expressed here by third parties is just part of our exploration. We refuse to blindly follow anyone but Christ and the Hoy Scriptures! We would like to welcome you to our forum and look forward to hearing from you.
Just a thought on the first video on Franz teaching.Video Answer:
Please brothers and sisters let us not leave the worship of Russell, a long with the organization and the governing body only now to worship our brother Franz. Remember that Franz had experienced the greatest betrayal of his life and was wounded deeply, through the organization. This shook his pursuit of truth. He is responsible for writing a great deal of truth perceived through the steps of logic he traveled while reading and researching the Bible. Truth is simple if you arrive at it one step at a time. Truth is simple, but truth has depth. Brother Franz admits he and his writing team tried to make the truth they arrived at fit the “present truth” of the organization on occasion, but they also tried the majority of the time to just let it stand on its own merit. Those of you who have read the “Insight on the Scriptures” can attest to this. What they found in their execution of the mistake in instructions the organization made, was that the truth was easily discernable, if you had even a beginning foundation of truth. The mistake was setting them on a task of looking at the Bible without bias to past or present organizational “present truth”. He and his writers reasoned through the Bible one topic at a time . The problem is they had no overview of the Bible, or even of Jesus and the nature of his resurrection. This lack of overview would not allow them to see the clear “path” of reason revealed in the “way” of reason that Jesus found in his own search as he grew to adulthood, and was also later revealed to him further by God’s spirit. The point here is that as a corresponding person Jesus demonstrated by example that we too can draw closer to God through accurate understanding of God and the expression of his love towards us, the anointed Jesus.
(Colossians 2:2) . . ., that they may be harmoniously joined together in love and with a view to all the riches of the full assurance of [their] understanding, with a view to an accurate knowledge of the sacred secret of God, namely, Christ.
(Colossians 2:3) . . .Carefully concealed in him are all the treasures of wisdom and of knowledge. . .
(Matthew 22:37-40) . . .“‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 The second, like it, is this, ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments the whole Law hangs, and the Prophets.. . .
We are making our minds over through the truth that Yahweh has revealed in and through his Son Jesus. Remember it is hidden from the world we came from. We began to take the steps revealed in the “milk” and then to progress to the “meat” through depth of understanding. Only in this process can we show true love for God and others. Only through this can we prophesy (teach) others to cross from the dead state they exist in to one of living to God.
(1 Corinthians 2:1-5) . . .And so I, when I came to YOU, brothers, did not come with an extravagance of speech or of wisdom declaring the sacred secret of God to YOU. 2 For I decided not to know anything among YOU except Jesus Christ, and him impaled. 3 And I came to YOU in weakness and in fear and with much trembling; 4 and my speech and what I preached were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a demonstration of spirit and power, 5 that YOUR faith might be, not in men’s wisdom, but in God’s power.
Paul presented himself at the level that would be “up” building to this congregation. Paul himself hoped to be one of the “new builders” of the house of God. As Jesus did when he came to serve, also Paul did. They served the need of the congregation at the level that could be understood while eventually teaching things of greater depth.
(1 Corinthians 2:6-10) . . .Now we speak wisdom among those who are mature, but not the wisdom of this system of things nor that of the rulers of this system of things, who are to come to nothing. 7 But we speak God’s wisdom in a sacred secret, the hidden wisdom, which God foreordained before the systems of things for our glory. 8 This [wisdom] not one of the rulers of this system of things came to know, for if they had known [it] they would not have impaled the glorious Lord. 9 But just as it is written: “Eye has not seen and ear has not heard, neither have there been conceived in the heart of man the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” 10 For it is to us God has revealed them through his spirit, for the spirit searches into all things, even the deep things of God.
The “way” of reason lays out the “path” we follow to draw closer to God. On this path, as we find the Bible puts it, we learn beside each other just as Jesus our brother did and does, because God is all “ways” higher.
Traveler, welcome and thanks for your comment.
Many have commented on what they heard read from Franz book. They can listen rather than read. Many cannot buy these books so we make them available here and they were available on the fojw site in PDF.
We publish articles and musings from a variety of authors to let freedom seekers hear different voices. We publish other Christian authors also that stick to scripture the best they can.
I know Franz, he landed in my Alabama Circuit. It is true he pushed for a governingbody and met with opposition.
He won, but this giant came back to bite him in the rear when he tried to recant, admit there was no such body like the sanhedrin in early congregation.
He made the front cover of the times with a vengeance at first but was used powerfully to expose a rotten egg among the so called Jehovah witnesses organization, ” an instead of Christ, anti, governing body”.
Sometimes being humbled allows God to be able to use you (us) for his purpose.
This is a website and we present information to people we think are intelligent enough to not worship anyone but God and Jesus the Christ.
Look forward to hearing from you and I will let Brandon know you are posting. Take Call, traveler.
Good to see you are still at it Jacqueline.
traveler
Hello!!!! Nice to hear from you.
If I recall you had some things you wanted to share. I was moderator but not the owner of the other site. Here we can discuss what we have found as individual Christians. You may share here if you like. It can be lengthy in a comment or you might want to let it be a contributed article, that way it gets its own comments on your subject. Let me know or you can comment. Thanks and take care.
Miss Rena’s thoughts: It only stands to reason that all of the people in the Jewish communities in Israel already were believers in YHVH. Going from one house to the next house would have always resulted in a warm welcome. The first century Christians were preaching and teaching the Messiah and his kingdom in the world to come. It is not at unreasonable to conclude they would have done it in any way that worked. Paul even hired an auditorium for his discourses with his own money. Remember that they we not just to baptize and make disciples, they were also suppose to be teachers. Matt 28:20 Acts 28:30 How many of those who claim to be anointed are taking the lead in the spirit of this example today? The faithful and discrete slave will not be designated until the end, AFTER they have been faithful and discreet.
Hi this is Ariella, i hope i can contribute to having daily reading either audio or reading. to help others be in the word of God daily in this busy life schedule.
Hi Ariella tell us what you got and welcome. Tell us how you want to present it and let us set it up.
Do you want it to be a recording or will you have listeners on BBB. You will be given your own page with your bio. Then copy and paste on sites for people to come over when you do a show or whatever you tell us is your format. With your own page it will list your show on the paste on Facebook.
Hi Everyone I am thrilled to see this site. Awesome Jacqueline! Will have to join the thursday study when I get tha chance soon.
Lee Anthony (Brandon)
Hello Brandon, thank you for commenting. This is a site for all of us. You may submit an article to publish and it will have a comment section. Kent would like to open the discussion on 607 or 587, so if you want to start it by adding what you think, go for it.
I think it would fall under deep subject blog. Talk about things that are on your mind. Also tell pharnisha to make up a name and let’s talk. Whatever is bothering her or a subject that she wishes to discuss. We can be open on here. How is the baby doing?
Take Care