And if the end were not close or closer? The WTS tells its members to pattern themselves on OT characters...like Abraham. How many jws remember that he never saw the fulfillment of his promise in his lifetime? The WTS chastises the rank and file for want Paradise Soon when it is the WTS that fires up this hope.
*** w01 8/15 p. 28 par. 12 Do Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine ***Once again, consider Abraham’s example. He built his whole life on faith in God’s promises, even though there was no chance that they would all be fulfilled within his lifetime.
(Hebrews 11:13-14) . . .In faith all these died, although they did not get the [fulfillment of the] promises, but they saw them afar off and welcomed them and publicly declared that they were strangers and temporary residents in the land. 1 . .
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*** w99 7/15 p. 18 par. 9 Anchored by Hope, Impelled by Love ***Drawn by the hope of "Paradise soon," some were prepared to spare no efforts to attain it—zealous in the preaching work and regular in attendance at all meetings, assemblies, and conventions. Now thinking that the realization of their hopes is farther off than they anticipated, they have lowered the price they are willing to pay. This is evident in reduced preaching activity, irregularity at meetings, and willingness to miss parts of assembly or convention programs. Others are devoting more time to recreation and to obtaining material comforts. These facts lead us to consider what should be the driving force in our lives in line with our dedication to Jehovah. Should our zeal in his service be dependent on the hope of "Paradise soon"?