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Re: JW News & Archive • I listen to the talk of governing body member Tony...

deandude — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 21:03:58 -0000

Without spot from the world! - Jas 1:27

Re: JW News & Archive • Are there any blood fractions we're NOT allowed to...

deandude — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 01:10:04 -0000

Blood Fractions

Blood Fractions and Surgical Procedures “God’s Love,” Appendix
How Do I View Blood Fractions and Medical Procedures Involving My Own Blood? Kingdom Ministry, 11/2006
Questions From Readers: Do Jehovah’s Witnesses accept any minor fractions of blood? The Watchtower, 6/15/2004

Re: JW News & Archive • Do you have a French flag on your Facebook profile...

deandude — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 21:11:07 -0000

Please refer to the following article...

w02 9/15 pp. 21-25 “Salvation Belongs to Jehovah”

“Salvation Belongs to Jehovah”
AT TIMES of national crisis and international tension, people look to their government for safety and security. Governments for their part step up programs designed to rally the support of the populace. The more the feeling of patriotism is fostered by such programs, the more spirited and frequent become the observances of patriotic ceremonies.

During a national emergency, patriotic fervor often gives people a sense of unity and strength and may promote a spirit of cooperation and civic-mindedness among them. However, “patriotism is as volatile as any emotion,” states an article in The New York Times Magazine, since “once released, it can assume ugly forms.” Expressions of it may take a turn that can encroach on the civil liberties and religious freedom of certain citizens of the country. True Christians particularly come under pressure to compromise their beliefs. How do they conduct themselves when such an atmosphere engulfs the world around them? What Scriptural principles help them to act with insight and to maintain integrity to God?

“You Must Not Bow Down to Them”

At times, saluting a national flag becomes a popular expression of patriotic feelings. But flags often bear representations of things in the heavens, such as stars, as well as things on the earth. God expressed his view of bowing down to such objects when he commanded his people: “You must not make for yourself a carved image or a form like anything that is in the heavens above or that is on the earth underneath or that is in the waters under the earth. You must not bow down to them nor be induced to serve them, because I Jehovah your God am a God exacting exclusive devotion.”—Exodus 20:4, 5.

Does saluting or kneeling before a flag representing the State really go against giving Jehovah God exclusive devotion? The ancient Israelites did have “signs,” or standards, around which their three-tribe divisions gathered while in the wilderness. (Numbers 2:1, 2) Commenting on the Hebrew words denoting such standards, McClintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia says: “Neither of them, however, expresses the idea which ‘standard’ conveys to our minds, viz. a flag.” Furthermore, Israel’s standards were not viewed as sacred, nor were any ceremonies associated with their use. They simply served the practical purpose of signs, showing the people where to gather.

The representations of cherubs in the tabernacle and in Solomon’s temple primarily served as a picture of the heavenly cherubs. (Exodus 25:18; 26:1, 31, 33; 1 Kings 6:23, 28, 29; Hebrews 9:23, 24) That these artistic likenesses were not to be venerated is evident from the fact that the people in general never saw them and that angels themselves are not to be worshiped.—Colossians 2:18; Revelation 19:10; 22:8, 9.

Consider also the figure of a copper serpent that the prophet Moses made during the sojourn of the Israelites in the wilderness. That figure, or image, served as a symbol and had prophetic significance. (Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14, 15) It was not adored or used for worship. Centuries after Moses’ day, however, the Israelites improperly began worshiping that same image, even burning incense to it. Hence, Judean King Hezekiah had it crushed to pieces.—2 Kings 18:1-4.

Are national flags simply signs serving some utilitarian function? What do they symbolize? “Nationalism’s chief symbol of faith and central object of worship is the flag,” stated author J. Paul Williams. The Encyclopedia Americana says: “The flag, like the cross, is sacred.” The flag is the symbol of the State. Therefore, bowing down to it or saluting it is a religious ceremony that gives reverence to the State. Such an act ascribes salvation to the State and does not harmonize with what the Bible says about idolatry.

The Scriptures clearly state: “Salvation belongs to Jehovah.” (Psalm 3:8) Salvation is not to be ascribed to human institutions or their symbols. The apostle Paul admonished fellow Christians: “My beloved ones, flee from idolatry.” (1 Corinthians 10:14) The early Christians did not participate in acts of worship of the State. In the book Those About to Die, Daniel P. Mannix observes: “Christians refused to . . . sacrifice to the [Roman] emperor’s genius—roughly equivalent today to refusing to salute the flag.” So it is with true Christians today. In order to render Jehovah exclusive devotion, they refrain from saluting the flag of any nation. By doing so, they put God first while maintaining respect for governments and their rulers. Indeed, they recognize their responsibility to be in subjection to the governmental “superior authorities.” (Romans 13:1-7) What, though, is the Scriptural view of singing patriotic songs, such as national anthems?

What Are National Anthems?

“National anthems are expressions of patriotic feeling and often include an invocation for divine guidance and protection of the people or their rulers,” says The Encyclopedia Americana. A national anthem is, in effect, a hymn or a prayer in behalf of a nation. It usually asks that the nation experience material prosperity and long duration. Should true Christians join in such prayerful sentiments?

The prophet Jeremiah lived among people who professed to serve God. Yet, Jehovah commanded him: “Do not pray in behalf of this people, neither raise in their behalf an entreating cry or a prayer nor beseech me, for I shall not be listening to you.” (Jeremiah 7:16; 11:14; 14:11) Why was Jeremiah given this command? Because their society was permeated with stealing, murdering, the committing of adultery, false swearing, and idolatry.—Jeremiah 7:9.

Jesus Christ set a precedent when he said: “I make request, not concerning the world, but concerning those you have given me.” (John 17:9) The Scriptures say that “the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one” and “is passing away.” (1 John 2:17; 5:19) How, then, can true Christians conscientiously pray for the prosperity and longevity of such a system?

Of course, not all national anthems include petitions to God. “The sentiments of national anthems vary,” says the Encyclopædia Britannica, “from prayers for the monarch to allusions to nationally important battles or uprisings . . . to expressions of patriotic feeling.” But can those who seek to please God actually exult over the wars and revolutions of any nation? Concerning true worshipers, Isaiah foretold: “They will have to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears.” (Isaiah 2:4) “Though we walk in the flesh,” wrote the apostle Paul, “we do not wage warfare according to what we are in the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly.”—2 Corinthians 10:3, 4.

National anthems often express feelings of national pride or superiority. This outlook has no Scriptural basis. In his speech on the Areopagus, the apostle Paul said: “[Jehovah God] made out of one man every nation of men, to dwell upon the entire surface of the earth.” (Acts 17:26) “God is not partial,” stated the apostle Peter, “but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”—Acts 10:34, 35.

Because of their understanding of the Bible, many make a personal decision to refrain from participating in the flag salute and in the singing of patriotic songs. But how do they conduct themselves when confronted with situations that bring them face-to-face with these issues?

Refrain Respectfully

In an effort to strengthen the unity of his empire, King Nebuchadnezzar of ancient Babylon set up a huge golden image on the plain of Dura. He then arranged for an inauguration ceremony to which he invited his satraps, prefects, governors, counselors, and other high officials. At the sound of music, all gathered were to bow down and worship the image. Among those who had to be present were three young Hebrews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. How did they show that they were not participating in this religious ceremony? As the music began and those gathered prostrated themselves before the image, the three Hebrews remained standing.—Daniel 3:1-12.

Today, flags are usually saluted with outstretched arm or with the hand held to the forehead or over the heart. At times, some special bodily position may be assumed. In some lands, children at school are expected to kneel and kiss the flag. By standing quietly while others salute the flag, true Christians make it evident that they are respectful observers.

What if a flag ceremony is conducted in such a way that simply standing gives evidence of participation? For example, suppose one student in a school is selected to represent the whole school and he salutes the flag outside at a flag pole while the other students are expected to stand at attention inside the classroom. The mere act of standing in this instance signifies agreement with having the student on the outside act as a personal representative in saluting the flag. Standing in any manner would then denote joining in the ceremony. If this is the case, those desiring to be only respectful observers would remain quietly seated. What if the class is already standing as such a ceremony starts? In this case, participation would not be indicated if we were to remain standing.

Suppose one is not asked to salute the flag but merely to hold it, either in a parade or in a classroom or elsewhere, so that others can salute. Rather than ‘fleeing from idolatry,’ as commanded in the Scriptures, this would actually mean being at the very center of the ceremony. The same is true of marching in patriotic parades. Because doing this would mean giving support to what is honored by the parade, true Christians conscientiously decline.

When national anthems are played, usually all a person has to do to show that he shares the sentiments of the song is to stand up. In such cases, Christians remain seated. If they are already standing when the national anthem is played, however, there is no need for them to take the special action of sitting down. It is not as though they had specifically chosen to stand for the anthem. On the other hand, if a group are expected to stand and sing, then merely standing up out of respect but not singing would not constitute sharing in the sentiments of the song.

“Hold a Good Conscience”

After describing the ineffectiveness of man-made objects of veneration, the psalmist said: “Those making them will become just like them, all those who are trusting in them.” (Psalm 115:4-8) Obviously, then, any employment that directly involves manufacturing objects of adoration, including national flags, would be unacceptable to Jehovah’s worshipers. (1 John 5:21) Other employment situations may also arise when Christians respectfully show that they worship neither the flag nor what it represents but only Jehovah.

An employer, for example, may ask an employee to raise or lower a flag displayed at a building. Whether an individual would do so or not depends on his personal view of the circumstances. If raising or lowering the flag is part of a special ceremony, with people standing at attention or saluting the flag, then performing this act amounts to sharing in the ceremony.

On the other hand, if no ceremony accompanies the raising or lowering of the flag, then these actions constitute nothing more than performing such tasks as preparing the building for use, unlocking and locking the doors, and opening and closing the windows. In such instances, the flag is simply an emblem of the State, and raising or lowering it among other routine tasks is a matter for personal decision based on the dictates of one’s Bible-trained conscience. (Galatians 6:5) The conscience of one person might move him to ask his supervisor to have some other employee put up and take down the flag. Another Christian might feel that his conscience would permit him to handle the flag as long as no ceremony is involved. Whatever the decision, true worshipers should “hold a good conscience” before God.—1 Peter 3:16.

There is no Scriptural objection to working in or being in public buildings, such as municipal offices and schools, where the national flag is displayed. A flag might also appear on postage stamps, automobile license plates, or other government-produced items. Using such objects does not in itself make individuals participants in devotional acts. What is significant here is, not the presence of a flag or a replica thereof, but how one acts toward it.

Flags are often displayed on windows, doors, cars, desks, or other objects. Clothing with the motif of a flag imprinted on it can also be purchased. In some countries, it is illegal to wear such items. Even if doing so would not violate the law, what would it indicate relative to a person’s position with regard to the world? Concerning his followers, Jesus Christ said: “They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.” (John 17:16) Not to be overlooked is the effect such an action could have on fellow believers. Could it injure the conscience of some? Might their resolve to remain firm in the faith be weakened? Paul counseled Christians: “Make sure of the more important things, so that you may be flawless and not be stumbling others.”—Philippians 1:10.

“Gentle Toward All”

As world conditions deteriorate in these “critical times,” feelings of patriotism are likely to intensify. (2 Timothy 3:1) May those who love God never forget that salvation belongs only to Jehovah. He deserves exclusive devotion. When asked to do something out of harmony with Jehovah’s will, Jesus’ apostles said: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.”—Acts 5:29.

“A slave of the Lord does not need to fight,” wrote the apostle Paul, “but needs to be gentle toward all.” (2 Timothy 2:24) Thus, Christians endeavor to be peaceable, respectful, and gentle as they rely on their Bible-trained conscience in making personal decisions regarding flag salute and the singing of a national anthem.

Re: JW News & Archive • Where did God come from?

deandude — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 22:35:34 -0000

w10 7/1 P28
Our Readers Ask . . .
Did God Have a Beginning?
▪ The Bible answers that God did not have a beginning. God has always existed. As difficult as the concept of God’s eternity is to grasp, we cannot dismiss the idea simply because we cannot fully comprehend it.

How reasonable is it that we should expect to understand all of God’s ways? The apostle Paul declared: “O the depth of God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How unsearchable his judgments are and past tracing out his ways are!” (Romans 11:33) Our minds cannot fully grasp the depth of God’s wisdom and knowledge any more than an infant can understand all the ways of a parent. These inspired words of Paul, although primarily about the uniqueness of God’s wisdom and mercy, suggest that there are aspects of Jehovah God and his workings that are too deep for our minds to fathom. The concept of God’s being without a beginning is apparently one of them. Yet, we can have absolute trust in what the Bible teaches about God. Jesus Christ said regarding the sacred writings: “Your word is truth.”—John 17:17.

Moses said in prayer to Jehovah: “You have always been, and you will always be.” (Psalm 90:2, The Holy Bible, New Century Version) Here Moses describes God’s existence as stretching in two directions. One is toward the future. Jehovah is “the One that lives forever and ever.” (Revelation 4:10) Thus, God’s existence stretches forward into the eternal future. The other is toward the past. In other words, God was neither created nor did he come into existence. Rather, God’s existence stretches back into the infinite past.

Abstract ideas are hard for most of us to comprehend. Yet, we sometimes deal with challenging concepts, such as positive and negative numbers. Counting numbers can go on endlessly, either up or down. Could we not apply this example to the years in the life of the Creator?

It is therefore fitting that only God bears the unique title “King of eternity.” (1 Timothy 1:17) Just think: Jesus Christ, the myriads of angels in heaven, and mankind on earth all have a beginning because of being created. (Colossians 1:15, 16) Not so with God. To insist that God must have been created introduces pointless and circular logic about who created the Creator. No, Jehovah alone exists “from eternity to eternity.” (Psalm 90:2, The New American Bible) In other words, Jehovah existed “before all time.”—Jude 25, footnote.

Keep in mind, though, that the concept of God’s eternal existence is not just a cold fact. A closer look at Moses’ prayer reveals that God’s eternity guarantees a warm promise of everlasting life for us. In contrast with the fleeting nature of our present life, God is described as “a real dwelling for us during generation after generation.” As a loving Father, Jehovah has been, is, and always will be there for his people. May you take comfort in that wonderful truth!—Psalm 90:1.

Re: JW News & Archive • I see some Jehovah's Witnesses posting the french...

deandude — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 22:29:13 -0000

Please see the reference...
Salvation belongs to Jehovah
w02 9/15 p21-25

Re: New Photo of The Undertaker and Sting Together

deandude — Tue, 31 Mar 2015 19:17:41 -0000

2 of the greats. WM32?

Re: Dear Librarian

deandude — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 09:21:28 -0000

Should I Get a Tattoo? - g03 9/22 pp. 25-27 - Awake!—2003
Leviticus 1:1-27:34 - New World Translation (nwt)

Re: JW.org Sponsor Popular TV Game Show?

deandude — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 09:11:53 -0000

What the...???

Re: Watchtower Library 2014

deandude — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 19:21:38 -0000

Not available for tablets

Re: JW-Archive.org — Dear Librarian, does anyone have any clue what the...

deandude — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 17:48:07 -0000

Possibly the 'Imitate Their Faith' book

Re: Roll Call at Meetings?

deandude — Sat, 31 Jan 2015 08:43:20 -0000

When the faithful slave gives us direction to do this then we will do it, until then brothers stop making ridiculous rules!

Re: JW-Archive.org — How young can the anointed be? My friend has...

deandude — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 23:27:00 -0000

At the time we are living in the Anointed number should be going down but instead its increasing.
As far as I am concerned there are some who have missed the point as to wether they are of the Anointed or not.
An extensive study of the Bible using the WT Library may go along way in clarifying ones view on this.
w09 6/15

Re: JW-Archive.org — First JW.org tattoo I’ve seen…. I should think...

deandude — Sun, 07 Dec 2014 23:14:14 -0000

Once again someone takes it too far!
Awake - “Young People Ask . . . Should I Get a Tattoo?” (September 22, 2003)The statement that we wouldn’t want to make markings on our body that dishonored God “even temporarily” Should be adhered too.
Considered that wearing a tattoo could stumble others and cause others to view one as rebellious will make you think twice.

Re: SOON: An Announcement That Will “Test Your Faith”

deandude — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 18:35:38 -0000

How about we all wait on the Faithfull Slaves direction rather than our own interpretation on what it mite be!😑

Re: JW-Archive.org — Father baptizing his own daughter Armenian...

deandude — Sun, 27 Jul 2014 23:11:39 -0000

Having done this also with my daughter a few years back, brought tears to my eyes. Truly a great privilege.

Re: JW-Archive.org — Is anyone aware of the turnaround time for an...

deandude — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 11:38:01 -0000

The November Study Watchtower will answer of the questions we have about this new arrangement.
Let's be patient and wait for the Faithful Slaves direction.

Re: JW-Archive.org — Why can't men have a beard ?

deandude — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 23:27:50 -0000

be book p131-133
Modesty and soundness of mind are also important in the dress and grooming of men.
A person who is modest is concerned about not needlessly offending others and not drawing undue attention to himself. Soundness of mind results in discretion, or good judgment. The person who dis- plays these qualities has balance that results from respect for godly standards. Manifesting these qualities does not rule out dressing in an attractive manner but helps us to be sensible in our appearance and to avoid extravagant styles of dress and grooming. (1 John 2:16) We want to apply these principles whether we are at a place of worship, sharing in the field ministry, or en- gaging in other activities. Even our casual dress should re- flect modesty and soundness of mind. At school or on our secular job, there will be opportunities to do informal wit- nessing. While we may not be dressed in the same man- ner as when attending meetings, conventions, and assem- blies, our dress should still be neat, clean, and modest.

Box
CHECK YOUR APPEARANCE
Is everything clean?
Does your appearance reflect modesty and good judgment?
Is everything well arranged? Is your hair neat?
Is there anything about your appearance that might reflect love of the world?
Is there any good reason to think that your appearance could stumble someone?

For men, a neat personal appearance may include being clean- shaven. In areas where mustaches are widely viewed as dignified, any who wear these should keep them neatly trimmed.

Re: JW-Archive.org — My inspirations. Baptized 6/28/2014 at the...

deandude — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 09:36:28 -0000

Well done.
Welcome my Sister.

Re: JW-Archive.org — Theocratic JW Nails!!

deandude — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 09:30:42 -0000

Very poor!
Just a showy display - let's not cheapen the web site.

Re: WWE Announces Sting for 2K15, More Sting News from RAW and Video

deandude — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 22:47:44 -0000

Come on WWE bring in Sting

Re: JW-Archive.org — Banners from the international convention in...

deandude — Mon, 07 Jul 2014 00:23:34 -0000

Call me prudish if you want but banners, etc for me is just a showy display and it doesn't make us stand out as different from the rest of religion/society.
Jesus would never put on this sort of a display.
Yes advertise the kingdom message but don't commercialise it or make a public spectacle of it with banners!

Re: JW-Archive.org — Sister Serena Williams paid $5000 for a bath! ...

deandude — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 02:10:14 -0000

This is a “the showy display of one’s means of life.” Satan used all three of them to tempt Jesus in the wilderness. Because Satan has used these tricks for so many years, he has become very good at using them, and he knows which of them to use for each person.

Re: JW-Archive.org — I'm getting married in a few months and it's going to be in the kingdom hall. I also have an uncle who is homosexual and married. Would it be inappropriate to invite him and his hu...

deandude — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 23:48:32 -0000

If a couple wishes to use the Kingdom Hall, they should submit a written request well in advance of the wedding date indicating the specific day and time they desire to use the hall. The Congregation Service Committee should promptly consider the re- quest on behalf of the body of elders. Though it is not a requirement that all in the wedding party be baptized the wedding party should not include any person whose lifestyle grossly conflicts with Bible principles. (km 11/08 p. 3; w84 4/15 p. 15)

Re: TO ALL CONGREGATIONS

deandude — Tue, 20 May 2014 00:01:36 -0000

Overdue!
Great to see that once again the GB is on the mark.

Re: Interesting Insight from a District Overseer:

deandude — Tue, 13 May 2014 10:30:26 -0000

How to Treat a Disfellowshipped Person
Few things can hurt us more deeply than the pain we suf- fer when a relative or a close friend is expelled from the congregation for unrepentant sin. How we respond to the Bible’s direction on this matter can reveal the depth of our love for God and of our loyalty to his arrangement.􏰀 Consid- er some questions that arise on this subject.
How should we treat a disfellowshipped person? The Bible says: “Quit mixing in company with anyone called a broth- er that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man.” (1 Corinthians 5:11) Regarding everyone that “does not remain in the teaching of the Christ,” we read: “Never receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him. For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.” (2 John 9-11) We do not have spiritual or so- cial fellowship with disfellowshipped ones. The Watchtower of September 15, 1981, page 25, stated: “A simple ‘Hello’ to someone can be the first step that develops into a conversa- tion and maybe even a friendship. Would we want to take that first step with a disfellowshiped person?”
Is strict avoidance really necessary? Yes, for several reasons. First, it is a matter of loyalty to God and his Word. We obey Jehovah not only when it is convenient but also when do- ing so presents real challenges. Love for God moves us to obey all his commandments, recognizing that he is just and loving and that his laws promote the greatest good. (Isaiah 48:17; 1 John 5:3) Second, withdrawing from an unrepen- tant wrongdoer protects us and the rest of the congregation from spiritual and moral contamination and upholds the congregation’s good name. (1 Corinthians 5:6, 7) Third, our
􏰀 Bible principles on this subject apply equally to those who disasso- ciate themselves from the congregation.
firm stand for Bible principles may even benefit the disfel- lowshipped one. By supporting the decision of the judicial committee, we may touch the heart of a wrongdoer who thus far has failed to respond to the efforts of the elders to assist him. Losing precious fellowship with loved ones may help him to come “to his senses,” see the seriousness of his wrong, and take steps to return to Jehovah.—Luke 15:17.
What if a relative is disfellowshipped? In such a case, the close bond between family members can pose a real test of loyalty. How should we treat a disfellowshipped relative? We cannot here cover every situation that may arise, but let us focus on two basic ones.
In some instances, the disfellowshipped family member may still be living in the same home as part of the im- mediate household. Since his being disfellowshipped does not sever the family ties, normal day-to-day family activities and dealings may continue. Yet, by his course, the individu- al has chosen to break the spiritual bond between him and his believing family. So loyal family members can no lon- ger have spiritual fellowship with him. For example, if the disfellowshipped one is present, he would not participate when the family gets together to study the Bible. However, if the disfellowshipped one is a minor child, the parents are still responsible to instruct and discipline him. Hence, lov- ing parents may arrange to conduct a Bible study with the child.􏰀—Proverbs 6:20-22; 29:17.
In other cases, the disfellowshipped relative may be living outside the immediate family circle and home. Although there might be a need for limited contact on some rare occasion to care for a necessary family matter, any such con- tact should be kept to a minimum. Loyal Christian family
􏰀 For more information about disfellowshipped minor children living in the home, see The Watchtower of October 1, 2001, pages 16-17, and November 15, 1988, page 20.members do not look for excuses to have dealings with a disfellowshipped relative not living at home. Rather, loyal- ty to Jehovah and his organization moves them to uphold the Scriptural arrangement of disfellowshipping. Their loyal course has the best interests of the wrongdoer at heart and may help him to benefit from the discipline received.􏰀—He- brews 12:11.
􏰀 For more information about how to treat disfellowshipped relatives, see the Scriptural counsel discussed in The Watchtower of April 15, 1988, pages 26-31, and September 15, 1981, pages 26-31.“KEEP YOURSELVES IN GOD’S LOVE”