as per the subject, i am looking for quick references on just how many deaths actuallyh occured during wwii???????
pls need info for book study!!
!1
Hello everyone,
I'm sorry for the problem. I have all my researches in Word and if I choose
to use HTML formatting, all my highlighted portion are gone, the different
fonnt as well . Before I never had this problem .
I do apologize.
Greetings,
J.C.MacHislopp
P.S. My original editing is quite large format ... to see it better..
as per the subject, i am looking for quick references on just how many deaths actuallyh occured during wwii???????
pls need info for book study!!
!1
Hello everyone, here is some ...information on the subject. How many Jehovah’s Witnesses were imprisoned and how many died in the Nazi's concentration camps? 1943 From the book: The Truth shall make you free” published by the WTBS Inc. New York, Chapter XXIV , page 316 : « Eventually 6000 of them were thrown into concentration camps, isolated and distinguished fromother by a violet badge , and most brutally treated”. 7 years later: 1950 *** w50 12/15 p. 500 Jehovah’s Witnesses Again Endure Totalitarian Hate *** “With the mass-arresting of Jehovah’s witnesses these people have now, for the second time within a couple of decades, donned the martyr’s crown—and they know what that means. Already during the Hitler regime about 1,000 Jehovah’s witnesses were executed as traitors, because they not only refused to serve in the war but openly opposed Hitler’s authority. Another 1,000 of Jehovah’s witnesses died in prisons and concentration camps, and all who have afterwards been describing life in those camps have in their books given Jehovah’s witnesses the very highest recognition. 8 years later: 1951 *** w51 2/15 pp. 105-106 An Open Answer to “The Vindicator” *** That is why during the Nazi regime in Germany from 1933 to 1945 Jehovah’s witnesses in that land refused to heil Hitler! as their Fuehrer or Leader, and went to concentration camps and prisons, where 2,000 died cruel deaths, and of the 8,000 that came out alive, 2,000 were invalided for the rest of their lives. 11 years later: 1954 *** w54 12/1 pp. 724-725 par. 17 The Fight for Freedom to Preach World-wide *** 17 It is a familiar story about the fight for freedom fought by Jehovah’s witnesses to preach in Nazi- and Fascist-dominated lands from 1933 to 1945. Thousands were thrown into the concentration camps. Many were tortured and killed. Countless numbers died because of their loyalty to Jehovah God. 12 years later: 1955 *** w55 8/1 pp. 462-463 Part 15—Foreign Activities Under Fascist-Nazi Persecution *** Thus a mad national effort was embarked upon, to eliminate Jehovah’s witnesses from the German national scene. In the course of the dark years that followed thousands of witnesses were arrested, falsely convicted and put in prisons and concentration camps where many of them suffered unspeakably. Some two thousand witnesses lost their lives in this struggle to keep faithful integrity to Jehovah. 21 years later: 1964 *** w64 1/1 p. 13 par. 19 They Listened to an Angel *** 19 Hitler, a Roman Catholic, the arm of his church in Germany, forbade Jehovah’s witnesses to preach the kingdom of God, and these modern-day Christians had to say to Hitler’s Gestapo police: ‘Whether it is righteous in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, judge for yourselves.’ They kept preaching even though 10,000 of them were put in concentration camps and over 4,000 died there. The rest nearly starved to death. The war’s end aided their survival. 31 years later: 1974 *** yb74 p. 212 Part 3—Germany *** A total of 2,000 brothers and sisters had been put into concentration camps, where they had spent 8,078 years and six months, an average of four years. A total of 635 had died in prison, 253 had been sentenced to death and 203 of these had actually been executed. What a record of integrity! 31 years later: 1974 *** g74 1/22 p. 32 Would You Remain Loyal? *** In Nazi Germany Jehovah’s witnesses refused to compromise. They remained loyal to righteous principles. They had no share in Hitler’s political or military aggressions. Just a few decades ago, hundreds died in his concentration camps. But thousands came out strong in faith. 36 years later: 1979 *** w79 11/1 p. 7 Neutrality in a Mixed-up World *** Many Christian witnesses of Jehovah in Nazi Germany and elsewhere lost their lives in maintaining neutrality. As they faced death they drew comfort from Jesus’ words: “Do not become fearful of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; but rather be in fear of him that can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna [eternal death].” (Matt. 10:28) 41 years later: 1984 *** w84 10/1 p. 8 Impressed by the Integrity of Jehovah’s Witnesses *** The title of Dr. King’s book is The Nazi State and the New Religions: Five Case Studies in Non-Conformity. Most outstanding among Dr. King’s findings are the figures of deaths and imprisonment of Jehovah’s Witnesses. These indicate that the figures previously published by the Witnesses were greatly underestimated. Dr. King’s source for these statistics was a volume published in Munich, Germany, by Michael Kater. “My own perusal of Court and Gestapo records,” she declared, “would certainly support these higher figures.” What are these figures? “Some 10,000 were imprisoned, and together they received sentences totalling 20,000 years. One out of every two German Witnesses was imprisoned, one in four lost their lives. 41 years later: 1984 *** g84 12/8 p. 13 Nazi-Fascist Attacks on Witnesses *** Some were not only victims but also martyrs, for they could have obtained their release. That was the case, according to one source, with the 10,000 Witnesses, men and women, who were victims of the sadism and brutality that Hitler and his S.S. henchmen had organized. Those Witnesses were given the opportunity to sign a paper renouncing their religion and thus go free. Very few accepted.—See The Nazi State and the New Religions: Five Case Studies in Non-Conformity, by Dr. Christine E. King. Of the 10,000, about 2,500 never did go free, according to the above source—they died in Dachau, Belsen, Buchenwald, Sachsenhausen, Ravensbrück, Auschwitz, Mauthausen and other camps—faithful to their God, Jehovah, and their exemplar, Christ. Aside from those who were gassed, many died as a result of beatings, starvation and medical experimentation. Others, including women, were executed by being hanged, beheaded or shot. 43 years later: 1986 *** w86 1/1 p. 10 par. 3 Days Like “the Days of Noah” *** . And as to persecution, Jesus forewarned his disciples, saying: “They will put some of you to death.” Hundreds of our brothers died at the violent hands of Nazi Hitler. Jehovah will remember all of such in the resurrection 45 years later: 1988 *** re chap. 8 p. 40 par. 9 Striving to Be Conquerors *** 9 During Nazi rule in Germany, Hitler completely banned the preaching work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. For years, thousands of Witnesses were cruelly confined in concentration camps and prisons, where many died, while some 200 young men who refused to fight in Hitler’s army were executed. 1988 *** re chap. 27 p. 185 par. 28 God’s Kingdom Is Born! *** 28 This vicious flood of persecution reached a high point during World War II. In Europe some 12,000 Witnesses were incarcerated in Nazi concentration camps and prisons, and about 2,000 died. 46 years later: 1989 *** w89 1/1 p. 21 par. 13 “To Jehovah Belongs the Battle” *** . The book Mothers in the Fatherland reported: “[Jehovah’s Witnesses] were sent to concentration camps, a thousand of them were executed, and another thousand died between 1933 and 1945. . . . Catholics and Protestants heard their clergy urge them to cooperate with Hitler. 47 years later: 1990 *** w90 2/1 p. 22 par. 9 Exposing “the Man of Lawlessness” *** 9 Many of Jehovah’s Witnesses have surrendered their soul in behalf of their friends in obeying the law of love. A review of the book Kirchenkampf in Deutschland (Fight of the Churches in Germany), by Friedrich Zipfel, says regarding the Witnesses: “Ninety-seven percent of the members of this small religious group were victims of National Socialistic [Nazi] persecution. One third of them were killed, either by execution, other violent acts, hunger, sickness or slave labor 50 years later: 1993 *** g93 5/8 p. 4 Victims or Martyrs What Is the Difference? *** During the Nazi period in Germany (1933-45), Jehovah’s Witnesses suffered terrible persecution for daring to remain neutral and for refusing to serve in Hitler’s war effort. Thousands were sent to the dreaded concentration camps, where many were executed and others died from mistreatment. 1993 *** g93 5/8 p. 31 A Holocaust Museum and Jehovah’s Witnesses *** The Nazis thus banned them as an organization in April 1933. Accused of both civil and religious disobedience, they were among the first groups to be thrown into concentration camps. “Ultimately, more than 30,000 Witnesses were persecuted by the Nazis,” states a museum newsletter. 1993 *** g93 5/8 p. 32 “‘Jehovah’ Erased by Nazis” *** All of this was part of the Nazis’ campaign of persecution of the Jews. At the same time, it was doubtless intended to strike a blow against Jehovah’s Witnesses, who had been banned since 1933 and were also being sent to the concentration camps. In 1933 there were 19,268 active Witnesses in Germany. 52 years later: 1995 *** g95 8/22 p. 10 The Evils of Nazism Exposed *** Why were Jehovah’s Witnesses so well acquainted with the concentration camps? When World War II started in 1939, there were already 6,000 Witnesses confined in camps and prisons. German historian Detlef Garbe estimates that the Witnesses constituted at that time between 5 and 10 percent of the total camp population! At a seminar on the Witnesses and the Holocaust, Garbe stated: “Of the 25,000 persons who admitted to being Jehovah’s Witnesses at the beginning of the Third Reich, about 10,000 were imprisoned for any length of time. Of these, over 2,000 were admitted to concentration camps. This means that the Jehovah’s Witnesses were, with the exception of the Jews, the worst persecuted by the SS of all the religious based groups.” * 53 years later: 1996 ** g96 9/8 p. 30 From Our Readers *** However, as a group Jehovah’s Witnesses refused to support the Nazi regime. Thus, they became the targets of vicious persecution by Hitler’s government. Thousands suffered imprisonment in concentration camps, and many died there. See our August 22, 1995, issue.—ED. 53 years later: 1996 *** g96 1/8 p. 28 Watching the World *** Interestingly, the Tribune observed that historian John S. Conway, of the University of British Columbia, Canada, said that the only religious organization that absolutely refused to follow the Nazis was Jehovah’s Witnesses. He added that for this more than half were sent to concentration camps. 54 years later: 1997 *** g97 8/22 p. 26 Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia *** Because Jehovah’s Witnesses refused to cry out ‘Heil Hitler’ and serve in Hitler’s army, many thousands of believers were sent to Nazi concentration camps, and thousands died. 57 years later: 2000 *** g00 12/22 p. 18 The First One a Hundred Years Ago *** In 1933 the branch was confiscated by the Nazis, the Witnesses were banned and, in time, two thousand of them were sent to concentration camps. 57 years later: *** w00 4/1 p. 19 par. 5 Fighters Against God Will Not Prevail! *** 5 Dictatorships emerged in the 1930’s, and Germany, Italy, and Japan united to form the Axis powers. Early in that decade, barbaric persecution was unleashed against God’s people, notably in Nazi Germany. Bans were imposed. Homes were searched, and their occupants were arrested. Thousands were thrown into concentration camps because they refused to renounce their faith. 58 years later: 2001 *** g01 4/22 p. 5 A Focus of the Soviet Attack *** Further increase, “unbelievable as it may sound,” Kolarz wrote, came from “the German concentration camps.” The Nazis had imprisoned thousands of Witnesses for refusing to support Hitler and his war of aggression. 58 years later: 2001 *** w01 3/15 p. 9 Courageous Integrity Keepers Triumph Over Nazi Persecution *** By 1939, six thousand of them had been imprisoned, and thousands had been sent to concentration camps. (Picture 3) What was the situation by the end of World War II? Some 2,000 imprisoned Witnesses had died, over 250 by execution. 61 years later: 2004 *** w04 12/1 p. 26 Trusting in Jehovah’s Loving Care *** In 1936 and 1937, the Gestapo conducted mass arrests and threw thousands of Witnesses into prisons and concentration camps, where they suffered the most cruel and sadistic treatment. 62 years later: 2005 *** w05 12/15 p. 22 par. 13 Whom Do You Obey—God or Men? *** His efficient death machine seemed more than equal to the task. The Nazis did succeed in rounding up thousands of Witnesses and sending them off to concentration camps. They even managed to kill some Witnesses. 63 years later: 2006 *** w06 2/15 p. 32 “What Does the Purple Triangle Mean?” *** In Germany under the Nazi regime, Jehovah’s Witnesses refused to heil Hitler, and they maintained neutrality on political and military issues. So the Nazis cruelly persecuted them, incarcerating some 12,000 Witnesses for varying lengths of time in prisons and concentration camps. About 2,000 of them died, hundreds being executed. 64 years later: 2007 *** es07 p. 17 February *** Thursday, February 1 You may perhaps be found fighters actually against God.—Acts 5:39. When Jehovah’s Witnesses in Germany refused to heil Adolf Hitler as their Führer, Hitler vowed to exterminate them. (Matt. 23:10) His efficient death machine seemed more than equal to the task. The Nazis did succeed in rounding up thousands of Witnesses and sending them off to concentration camps. They even managed to kill some Witnesses. OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO From outside souces : The Victim List Project was approved in November 2000 f United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Name Lists Catalog United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Name Lists By 1939, approximately 6,000 Jehovah's Witnesses from the Reich (including Austria and the Protectorate) were incarcerated in prisons or camps. Of those 20,000 German Witnesses who remained active throughout the Nazi period, approximately one-half were convicted at some juncture during that time. Between 2,000 and 2,500 German Witnesses and 700-800 non-German Witnesses were interned in concentration camps. The number of Jehovah's Witness deaths in the camps totaled approximately 1000 German Witnesses and 400 non-German Witnesses (including 90 Austrians and 120 Dutch). It is worth noting that non-German Jehovah's Witnesses suffered a considerably higher death rate than German Witnesses. In addition to the above number, approximately 250 Germans were executed, mostly following military tribunals for refusal to commit to military service. @oooooo@@ Greetings, J.C.MacHislopp
i emailed this in the hope of helping the presenter or getting published.
dear editor, .
the watchtower bible and tract society (wtbts), a multi-million dollar publishing company, has a history of bizarre medical teachings and quack science - the blood teaching being only one.
Hello Mr. Ben,
you wrote an excellent letter. The points are very clear. Unfortunately, as Jeff already commented,
most editors, (above all in Europe) will not accept any matrial with more than 150/200 words.
Please keep us informed,
Greetings,
J.C.Mac Hislopp.
following the link given by kent,.
i have several observation to make:.
(from the link : http://www.un.org/moreinfo/ngolink/brochure.htm).
Hello everyone,
thanks to Tula for the excellent post. Nice and complete for everyone .
I do agree with Gopher:
****Whether or not the Society AGREED to support the UN and promote it, they DID repeatedly promote the U.N. and its accomplishments throughout the 1990's, primarily in their Awake! magazine. ***
Amen.
Greeting to all,
J.C.MacHislopp
how many active j.w are there on this site.
how many pioneers, elders, and m.s on this site.
how many under the age of 25 are there on this site.
Hello spiritboi,
yours is an interesting qustion.
Try to be more specific. Many on this board are willing and
would be able to help you.
Greetings,
J.C.MacHislopp
hello everyone,.
following a request and also for the benefit of new ones,.
'm posting a revised and updated version on the above topic.. due to its lenght i'll be posting it in 3 parts.. greetings,.
Hello everyone,
I do agree with you Burger Time, but the problem is that, after having prepared
the post - place it on the board - when I do click to send it I do receive the message
Error ...and the Administrator will look at it.
This time I retried with Notepad and was accepted but ... with much more simple presentation
and the loiss of the definitions I did put in all the 3 parts.
Thanks for your remarks,
greetings, J.C.MacHislopp
hello everyone,.
following a request and also for the benefit of new ones,.
'm posting a revised and updated version on the above topic.. due to its lenght i'll be posting it in 3 parts.. greetings,.
Hello everyone,
thanks for the nice comments.
Atlantis, it would be nice to have on pdf, and I wonder if
As I wrote , I prepared the research using and in order to to post
on this board, - as Blondie kindly suggested - I modified it into
Notepad. Unfortunately the impact of the visual aspect, the highlithed
key words are lost. Do you have any ...suggestions on the subject?
Thanks for you excellent work. I do appreciate it greatly, including
all your...original ...pictures and way of expressing.
Greetings, J.C. MacHislopp
hello everyone,.
following a request and also for the benefit of new ones,.
'm posting a revised and updated version on the above topic.. due to its lenght i'll be posting it in 3 parts.. greetings,.
Hello again,
here below Part three.
Armageddon.. and the ...' time of the end '
Part III - from 1983 to 2008 -
1983*
*** km 8/83 p. 4 par. 7 Witness Publicly and From House to House ***
7 As recorded at Proverbs 1:20, wisdom is said to keep “giving forth its voice” in the public squares, thus making it available to all who seek it. Never before in man’s history has there been a greater need for God’s wisdom as contained in his Word to be publicly proclaimed. (Matt. 24:14) As we near the end of this present system, those held in darkness by it need to hear Jehovah’s Word while there is yet time. It is a marvelous privilege for us to be ‘engaged in the holy work of the good news of God,’ witnessing publicly and from house to house.—Rom. 15:16.
1984*
*** w84 3/1 18-19 Kingdom Unity a Reality Today ***
It has been thrilling to see the fulfillment of Jesus? sign showing that the Kingdom was established in the heavens in that momentous year 1914.
And Jesus has told us to rejoice at seeing the dark storm clouds of Armageddon gathering since that time.
He has told us that the ‘generation’ of 1914?the year that the sign began to be fulfilled??will by no means pass away until all these things occur.? (Matthew 24:34)
Some of that ?generation? could survive until the end of the century.
But there are many indications that ‘the end’ is much closer than that!
*** w84 5/15 5 1914-The Generation That Will Not Pass Away ***
Jesus used the word ?generation? many times in different settings and with various meanings. But what did he mean when he spoke of a ?generation that would not pass away?? Some have interpreted ?generation? to mean a period of 30, 40, 70 or even 120 years.
However, a generation is really related to people and events, rather than to a fixed number of years.
The Greek word rendered ?generation? in the Bible has been defined as, ?Those born at the same time . . . Associated with this is the meaning: the body of one?s contemporaries, an age.? (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology)
?The sum total of those born at the same time, expanded to include all those living at a given time generation, contemporaries.? (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament from Walter Bauer?s Fifth Edition, 1958)
These definitions embrace both those born around the time of a historic event and all those alive at that time.
If Jesus used ‘generation’ in that sense and we apply it to 1914, then the babies of that generation are now 70 years old or older. And others alive in 1914 are in their 80?s or 90?s, a few even having reached a hundred. There are still many millions of that generation alive. Some of them ‘will by no means pass away until all things occur.’Luke 21:32.
Since 1914 we have already lived through two world wars and many other major conflicts, along with famines, earthquakes, pestilences and the like. (Luke 21:10, 11) Yet Jesus said: ‘This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.’ (Matthew 24:34)
*** w84 5/15 6-7 1914-The Generation That Will Not Pass Away ***
Is There Enough Time?
From a purely human viewpoint, it could appear that these developments could hardly take place before the generation of 1914 disappears from the scene.
But fulfillment of all the foretold events affecting the generation of 1914 does not depend on comparatively slow human action.
Jehovah’s prophetic word through Christ Jesus is: ‘This generation [of 1914] will by no means pass away until all things occur.’ (Luke 21:32)
And Jehovah, who is the source of inspired and unfailing prophecy, will bring about the fulfillment of his Son?s words in a relatively short time.?Isaiah 46:9, 10; 55:10, 11.
1989*
*** km 1/89 pp. 1-2 par. 4 Youths—Develop a Strong Relationship With Jehovah ***
If you are not yet baptized, then work toward dedication and baptism. Since we are near the end of this system, we should be concentrating on “what sort of persons” we ought to be in “deeds of godly devotion.” (2 Pet. 3:11
1991*
*** w91 5/1 p. 21 Thrilling Visions That Strengthen Faith ***
With Armageddon now so near, the anointed remnant of the “royal priesthood,” or “spiritual house,” are determined to stay spiritually awake. So must their associates, the “great crowd,” with earthly hopes, for they are also rendering sacred service to God at the temple. (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 7:9-17)
1993*
*w 1993 4/1 p. 18 Who Are Following the Light of the World? ***
Urgent to Follow the Light
19 Now, in the final years of this evil system, it is urgent to follow the light of the world. And we need to be on guard, for there is an intense war being waged to keep us from walking in the light. This opposition comes from the powers of darkness-from Satan, his demons, and his earthly organization.
1994*
***w 94 1/1 20 The Watchtower and Awake!-Timely Journals of Truth Magazines That Advocate Truth
3 Jehovah is the God of truth. (Psalm 31:5) His Word, the Bible, is a book of truth. (John 17:17) Honesthearted people respond to truth. (Compare John 4:23, 24.) One reason that TheWatchtower and Awake! have touched the hearts of millions of readers is that they are journals of integrity and truth. In fact, it was over the issue of loyalty to Bible truth that TheWatchtower began to be published."
*w 1994 4/15 p. 10 Helpful Teaching for Our Critical Times ***
Many now living were eyewitnesses to World War I when this modern fulfillment began.
But even if you were born after 1914, you have witnessed Jesus' prophecy coming to pass. The events of this 20th century overwhelmingly prove that we are now living in the conclusion of this present wicked system.
*w 1994 9/1 p. 13 Despite Being Made of Dust, Push Ahead! **
20 Now, during the concluding years of Satan's world system, is not the time to slow down-not as far as Kingdom preaching is concerned and not as far as developing more fully the fruitage of God's spirit is concerned. «
1995*
'The Watchtower' November 1st , 1995, page 19
"Eager to see the end of this evil system, Jehovah's people have at times speculated about the time when the "great tribulation" would break out, even tying this to calculations of what is the lifetime of a generation since 1914. However, we bring a heart of wisdom in," not by speculating about how many years or days makeup a generation, but by thinking about how we "count our days" in bringing joyful praise to Jehovah."
"Therefore, in the final fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy today, "this generation" apparently refers to the peoples of earth who see the sign of Christ's presence but fail to mend their ways." (ibid, page 19)
1997*
*w 1997 8/15 p. 22 "Soundness of Mind" as the End Draws Close ***
21 How much time is left remaining we do not know. Yet, we can say with confidence that "the end of all things has drawn close." Until that end comes, let us live with "soundness of mind" in our dealings with one another, in the way we care for our families, and in our secular responsibilities
1998*
*w 1998 1/1 p. 11 Do Not Give Up in the Race for Life! ***
20 Today, we know that another great "day of Jehovah" will soon affect this whole system of things. (Joel 3:12-14) We do not know when that day will come. But God's Word assures us that come it will! Jehovah says it will not be late. (Habakkuk 2:3; 2 Peter 3:9, 10)
*w 1998 9/15 p. 13 Times and Seasons in Jehovah's Hands ***
We too are convinced that our deliverance from the present wicked system of things is approaching. We know that we are living in "the last days." (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
*w 1998 8/15 19 Strengthening Our Confidence in God's Righteousness
In the near future, the greatest time of tribulation ever to strike the human race will break forth suddenly. (Matthew 24:21) When it does, servants of God will need as never before to display confidence in Jehovah?s righteousness and in the direction provided by his organization. In a symbolic way, they will then confidently obey God?s injunction: "Go, my people, enter into your interior rooms, and shut your doors behind you. Hide yourself for but a moment until the denunciation passes over." (Isaiah 26:20) .-
*w 1998 9/15 pp. 18-19 Waiting in "Eager Expectation" ***
Their faith does not need to be propped up by time calculations. They keep busy in Jehovah's service, providing a wonderful example for their companions, the "other sheep." (John 10:16) These anointed ones know that this wicked system's end is near, and they heed Peter's exhortation: "Brace up your minds for activity, keep your senses completely; set your hope upon the undeserved kindness that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ."-1 Peter 1:13.
1999*
*w 1999 4/1 p. 19 Life After Death-What Does the Bible Say? ***
21 The fulfillment of Bible prophecy shows that we are living in "the last days" of this system of things. (2 Timothy 3:1) Very soon now, Jehovah God is going to intervene in human affairs and wipe out wickedness from the earth."
2000*
*w 2000 12/1 p. 18 Do You Love Jehovah's Reminders Exceedingly? **
Since we are living deep in the last days of this wicked system of things, let us keep praying for divine help so that we can continue to observe Jehovah's reminders and thus 'keep on guard according to his word.'-Psalm 119:9."
2001*
*w 2001 3/1 p. 21 Salvation for Those Who Choose the Light ***
17 Today, the "interior rooms" of the prophecy likely have to do with the tens of thousands of congregations of Jehovah's people around the world.
Such congregations are a protection even now, a place where Christians find safety among their brothers, under the loving care of the elders. (Isaiah 32:1, 2; Hebrews 10:24, 25)
This is especially true in view of the nearness of the end of this system of things when survival will depend on obedience.-Zephaniah 2:3.
*w 2001 5/15 p. 12 Praise Jehovah for His Great Deeds! ***
To shine forth in giving a final witness before Jehovah brings an end to Satan's wicked system of things in the rapidly approaching "great tribulation."-Matthew 24:21; Daniel 12:3; Revelation 7:14.
*w 2001 6/15 p. 12 Look After Orphans and Widows in Their Tribulation ***
As the end of the present system of things gets closer, the pressures that Christians in general face are certain to increase. (Matthew 24:9-13)
*w 2001 8/15 p. 28 Do Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine ***
Faith in the Things Unseen
11 Another trial may involve the seeming delay of the end of this wicked system of things. According to 2 Peter 3:12, Christians are to be "awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah." However, many have awaited this "day" for years, some for decades. As a result, some may become discouraged and lose their sense of urgency.
*w 2001 8/15 p. 32 Certificate of Excellence ***
Each issue of Awake! "stays politically neutral and does not exalt one race above another."
Additionally, the publications build "confidence in the Creator's promise of a peaceful and secure world that is about to replace the present wicked, lawless system of things."
*w 2001 11/15 p. 12 Jehovah Shows Us How to Count Our Days ***
« Yes, our life is as transitory as grass that withers in a single day. Therefore, let us not waste this precious commodity.
Instead, we should seek God's guidance on how we ought to use our remaining years in this system of things. «
*w 2001 11/15 p. 31 Noah's Faith Condemns the World ***
« Like Noah, true Christians today know that Jehovah will soon bring an end to this godless system of things.
We do not know that day or hour, but we realize that imitating the faith and obedience of this "preacher of righteousness" will result in "the preserving alive of the soul."-Hebrews 10:36-39.".-
2002*
"The Watchtower" May, 1st , 2002 page 16, paragraph 9 )
"Comparably, for more than a century now, the anointed brothers of Christ, those with the heavenly hope, have served as " a holy
priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God."
(1 Peter 2:5)
They have taken the lead in dispensing Bible truths
to others. As you have learned truths that they teach, have you not found from experience that the very law of truth has proved to be in their mouth? They have helped to turn many back from religious error, so that now ther are millions throughout the world who have learned Bible truths and who have the hope of everlasting life.
These, in turn, have the privilege of teaching the law of truth to yet other millions.- John 10:16; Revelation 7:9 .-"
paragraph 10)
" It would be easy to develop the habit of couching one's words in terms that are technically accurate but misleading. Or one might exaggerate or hide details in a business matter. Would Jehovah not see that? And if we followed such practices, would he accept sacrifices of praise from our lips? «
2003*
(from the book : Learn from the great teacher)
*** lr chap. 47 p. 249
How We Can Tell Armageddon Is Near ***
Do you see the point Jesus was making by talking about not waiting until wintertime to flee?— He was telling us that since we know that Armageddon is near, we do not want to delay in taking action to prove we love God by serving him. If we delay, it may be too late for us. So we would be just like those at the time of the great Flood who heard Noah but did not get inside the ark.
*km March 2003 page 6 , paragraph 25 subheading: "Take full advantage of the time remaining "
Today all the evidence indicates that the end of the present global system of things is at end. Day by day our pattern of life should reflect that conviction. As zealous servants of Jehovah, we should be focused on the urgent work of declaring the good news.- Titus 2:13,14 ."
*yb 2003 " A Letter from the Governing Body " page 5, paragraph 1 :
"We face similar situation today. As we approach the destruction of this wicked system, we expect increased opposition. Satan is filled with "great anger", and that anger is especially directed against those who serve God (Rev.12:12) "
*w 2003 September 15th 2003 p.25
?Expectation postponed is making the heart sick,? Solomon states, ? but the thing desired is a tree of life when it does come.? (proverbs 13:12) Unfulfilled expectation are bound to lead to disappointments that make the heart sick. This happens in everyday life. However, this is not the case with the expectations that are solidly based on god?s Word. We can have complete confidence that they will be fulfilled. Even apparent delays are less likely to be disappointing. For example, we know that God?s new world is imminent. (2 Peter 3;13)
*w 2003 December 1st, page 13 § 17 « Yes, we can confidently
look forward to the time-now so near- when Jehovah will eradicate from the earth all the corruption and those who are responsible for it ».
*w 2003 December 1st, page 13 § 18 « Just a little while longer
and the wicked one will be no more ; and you will certainly give attention to his place, and he will not be »(Psalm 37 :10) How these words encourage us as we approach the end of this system of things and the culmination of disastrous independence from Jehovah ! Whatever kind of government or authority has been devised by man has failed miserably. And now we are nearing the time for a return to rule by God, true theocracy, the Kingdom of Jehovah in the end of Jesus
Christ? »
*w 2003 December 15th, 2003 page 15 §§6-8
Our Watchfulness Takes On Greater Urgency
Warned of ‘Things Not Yet Beheld’ ?
6 In Noah’s day, Jehovah declared: “My spirit shall not act toward man indefinitely in that he is also flesh. Accordingly his days shall amount to a hundred and twenty years.?”(Genesis 6:3) The issuance of this divine decree in 2490 B.C.E. marked the beginning of the end for that ungodly world. Just think what that meant for those then living! Only 120 years more and Jehovah would bring ‘the deluge of waters upon the earth to bring to ruin all flesh in which the force of life is active from under the heavens.’ - Genesis 6:17
7 Noah received the warning of the upcoming catastrophe decades in advance, and he wisely used the time to prepare for survival. ?After being given divine warning of things not yet beheld.? Says the apostle Paul, ?[Noah] showed godly fear and constructed an ark for the salvation of his household.? (Hebrews 11:7) What about us? Some 90 years have passed since the last days of this system of things began in 1914. We are certainly in ‘the time of the end.’ (Daniel 12:4) How should we respond to warnings we have been given? ‘He that does the will of God remains forever,’states the Bible. (1 John 2:17) Now is therefore the time to do Jehovah?s will with a keen sense of urgency.
9 Jehovah has kept these warnings in front of his people by means of timely reminders through the spiritual food provided by ‘the faithful and discrete slave.”
21Although the Flood seems remote from our day, it clearly provides a warning that we must not ignore’. »
2004*
From " The Watchtower " January 15th 2004, page 13 § 15
« This « great crowd « will survive the imminent « great tribulation » , with the prospect of eternal life in Paradise as permanent members of the « new earth . » (Revelation 7 :9-14)
2005*
*** w05 7/1 p. 7 “Happy Are Those Conscious of Their Spiritual Need” ***
“This good news of the kingdom,” he foretold, “will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14) That end is fast approaching. How important, then, that honesthearted people listen to the lifesaving good news!
2008*
***w January 15th 2008, page 4 § 4 :
World events indicate that we are living in
“ the conclusion of the system of things” and that the end is very near.-
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°end of part three °°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
Greetings, J.C. MacHislopp
P.S. I really wish I could post in the Word version!!!
hello everyone,.
following a request and also for the benefit of new ones,.
'm posting a revised and updated version on the above topic.. due to its lenght i'll be posting it in 3 parts.. greetings,.
Hello again,
Here is Part Two.
Armageddon.. and the ...' time of the end '
Part II - from 1952 to 1982 -
1952*
*** w52 2/1 80-1 Jehovah's Theocratic Organization Today ***
THE FOLLY OF SPECULATING
13 There are some who seem to dote on speculations. They love to be the talking center of little groups, voicing their theories on how or when this or that is going to happen. They may not be deliberately rebellious about what the slave provides, but if they can offer only what the slave has already supplied they do not stand out.
How can they shine personally if they merely reflect what all others of Jehovah?s witnesses are reflecting? So they seek for something more sensational, for some ?new light? to dazzle unwary listeners. As they feed the open-mouthed listeners their line of new theories, the listeners by their rapt attention feed the ego of the speculators. When someone else begins to do the talking and occupies the spotlight, the speculator loses interest in the conversing group and drifts on.
These speculating ones may acknowledge that some of their past theories were wrong, but they do not show they have learned the lesson from these mistakes by refraining from bringing forth new theories. Their longing to be viewed as an independent and deep thinker is stronger than their desire to be theocratic.
14 Some of the speculating ones are more rebellious than others, disagreeing dogmatically with the discreet slave's provisions, exalting themselves above the Lord's established channel.
They argue that the theocratic organization has not always been right, and that they once had ideas the organization rejected but now teaches, and thus imply that their present theories will likewise be accepted in time.
They never mention the numerous speculations they have advanced in the past that were never adopted. That would spoil their campaign to get their present ideas gobbled up.
What their conceit blinds them to is that the visible theocratic
organization has never claimed infallibility, that it knows the
message will be continually purified by the elimination of erroneous
ideas, that it expects new truths to become manifest as more prophecies are fulfilled, that gradually the light will shine more
and more until the perfect day, and that the clarifications will come
through the discreet slave and not self-exalting speculators. (Prov. 4:18; Isa. 6:5-7; Mal. 3:1-3)
It is a continuous process, for the slave is ?to keep giving them their measure of food supplies at the proper time?. (Luke 12:42, NW)
Doubtless some do have ideas that are not published until later; to do so earlier may have been premature, may not have been 'at the proper time'. Wait upon the Lord."
1953*
"The facts of modern history prove we are in the "day of God the Almighty" and his war is near."
and:
"That means that Armageddon is so near at hand it will strike the generation now living."
(from the booklet:" AFTER ARMAGEDDON - GOD'S NEW WORLD published in the year 1953 pages 7, 29 )
INCLUDEPICTURE "http://www.strictlygenteel.co.uk/booklets/bookletimages/afterarmageddoncover.jpg" \* MERGEFORMATINET
The Fascinating Speech
found in the pages of this booklet was delivered by the president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society at the public meeting of the eight-day New World Society Assembly of Jehovah's Witnesses in Yankee Stadium, New York city, New York, U. S. A., Sunday afternoon, July 26, 1953. The enormous turnout of people overflowed from the Yankee Stadium into nearby overflow tents, which were filled with 25,240 persons, and 40 miles away at the assembly Trailer City another record crowd of 49,027 listened by direct wire communication with Yankee Stadium, making a total attendance of 165,829. At the same time, the lecture was broadcast over radio station WBBR to an unnumbered invisible audience.
From the way this tremendous crowd of people from ninety-six different lands enjoyed this speech we are sure that all readers with hearts yearning for what is right, pure and good will enjoy it too, with great personal enrichment and comfort and with wise counsel for the future. So with keen pleasure we publish it herewith.
— THE PUBLISHERS
WATCH TOWER BIBLE & TRACT SOCIETY
PUBLISHERS
Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, Inc.
International Bible Students Association
Brooklyn, New York, U. S. A.
Made in the United States of America
AFTER ARMAGEDDON - GOD'S NEW WORLD
ARMAGEDDON will be the worst thing ever to hit the earth within the history of man. God's new world will be the best thing ever to come to distressed mankind and will never pass away. For us to know that the best immediately follows the worst gives us courage to consider the subject of our discussion. We cannot have the new world without first Armageddon, So if we have yet to endure Armageddon, it will be better for us to face it with understanding, in the hope of surviving and entering into a new world of God's making, a world altogether different from the one mankind has known now for thousands of years, to its sorrow. Armageddon will prove a great blessing in disguise. Our proper concern is how we may prepare that we may not be irreparably hurt by it but may endure it and live to enjoy the grand new things of God's world of righteousness.
At critical times men in public office and prominent in world affairs have spoken of Armageddon as something that can be avoided by the skillful efforts of men. Because of the background of the name "Armageddon" some men have taken it to mean a decisive conflict and they have used the word in a way to fit a certain occasion. In the campaign year of 1912 the Boston Globe quoted the
4
aforetime American president Theodore Roosevelt as saying: "With unflinching heart and undimmed eye, we stand at Armageddon and we battle for the Lord."
...
necessity for that war in due time and he foretold its coming.
7
That war is therefore unavoidable. The facts of modern history prove we are in the "day of God the Almighty" and his war is near.
This war or battle takes its name from the symbolic place where it is to be fought, "the place that is called in Hebrew Har-Magedon," or, "Armageddon." The name means "Mountain of Megiddo." The name "Megiddo" is understood to mean the "place of the assembly of troops." The name "Megiddo" is historic. It named an ancient city on the plain of Esdraelon in Palestine and about fifty-five miles north of Jerusalem. Strongly fortified, Megiddo commanded an important pass from the north into the plain, and nearly all notices of it in the Holy Bible are connected with military transactions. Not that the war of all wars is to be fought out at the literal location of ancient Megiddo, but that the war of that great day of God the Almighty will have consequences like those of ancient battles at Megiddo, for then Almighty God fought to prove his sovereignty over the earth and to rescue his people upon whom his name "Jehovah" was called.
...
29
as if they had never existed. The Devil and his demons will be released for a little while from the abyss of imprisonment in order to be used in this test and will also be annihilated in second death as wicked beyond correction.
Those passing the test in perfect loyalty from the heart will be justified by the Supreme Judge to an endless happy life. Where? In an unfading paradise on earth. (Revelation 20:7-15, NW) Thus the glorious climax will be a world absolutely clean, righteous and God-fearing, in both its new earth and its new heavens. To the omnipotent, all-wise, all-righteous and all-loving God is this amazing result to be attributed through Jesus Christ, as it is written: "And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be any more. The former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:3, 4, NW) Rightly the saved world will adore him evermore.
ACTION NOW BEFORE ARMAGEDDON!
Just a while ago we said that the vast majority of the subjects of the new world's King will be people restored to life on earth by the resurrection of the dead. Why only the "vast majority," and not all? Because there is a great crowd of people of good will today living who will survive the world catastrophe of Armageddon and enter the world of new heavens and new earth without going down into the grave or ever afterward having the need to die and cease to exist. That means that Armageddon is so near at hand it will strike the generation now living.
When giving the prophecy that mentions Armageddon Jesus said he would come to this
30
universal war like a thief: "Look! I am. coming as a thief. Happy is the one that stays awake." (Revelation 16:15, NW)
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1953*
From the book , approved by the WTBS Inc.- :
Jehovah's Witnesses The New World Society' written by
Marley Cole - (1955 Vantage Press Inc. New York - Libray of Congress Catalog Card Number 54-12633)
Chapter one, page 3, the Jehovah's Witnesses Convention
" Sunday , July 26th, 1953 'the Yankee Stadium, in the
Bronx, New York. ', now the description of the event on
page 5 , The New World Society Assembles :
'Thunderous hand clapping filled the stadium. Mr. Knorr, whois president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, international directive agency of Jehovah?s witnesses, waited while an attendant adjusted his microphone. He looked out toward asmany of the 165,829 people as he could from the stage.
He commenced to speak , and his words were carried simultaneously to another invisible audience over the Witnesses' own 5,000watt radio station WBBR.? Other wires transmitted his message to tape-recording technicians, who recorded it for replaying on a mass scale to no tellling how many more people associated with the 14,000 congregations of Jehovah?s witnesses scattered among 150 countries, in the day and the years to come.
'Armageddon,' Knorr was saying ? is no mere stormy conflict between two political parties within a nation??
Wrapping all the world and its nations up together as Armageddon's target, Knorr 's voice warned dramatically . ? Armageddon is what the sacred Scriptures of divine prophecy call it, 'the war of the great day of God the Almighty.' the war in which the Creator of heaven and earth will face all his foes and will fight as he did in the days of old. God the Almighty foresaw thenecessity for that war in due time and he foretold its coming. That war is unavoidable."
His audience sensed his approaching climax. " The facts of modern history prove we are in ' the day of God the Almighty' and his war is very near."
Again a resounding peal of hand clapping filled the air. No shouting, no hooting, no whistling, but a vibrant sensitive response to every word.
And every word pointed to Armageddon as ringing down the curtain on this present living generation".
*** w53 10/15 p. 623 'The Watchtower'a Bible Study Aid
"To properly study The Watchtower we must approach it with the right heart attitude. While we are commanded, ?Make sure of all things; hold fast to what is right,? let us not overlook the fact that we are also admonished, ?Do not treat prophesyings with contempt.? (1 Thess. 5:20, 21, NW) Having found, time and again, that The Watchtower adheres faithfully to God?s Word, we have no grounds for approaching a study of it with suspicion, but rather we should approach it with a sincere desire to understand what God has provided for us through its pages, ever ready to ?accept with mildness the implanting of the word which is able to save [our] souls.??Jas. 1:21, NW.
1953*"After almost six thousand years of human sorrow, suffering and death, at last permanent relief is near at hand and will be realized within this generation."
(from the book: 'New Heavens And A New Earth' publ. 1953; page 7)
0000000000
1955*
"...without hesitation, World conquest by God's kingdom SOON!"
and :
"...that soon it will meet all the foes at Armageddon
and:
".. the Kingdom's presence and of its world conquest at Armageddon as being soon.
... for the deliverance that we see getting near for us
(from the booklet : ' WORLD CONQUEST SOON -by GOD'S KINGDOM' pub. year 1955 pages 28-30 )
INCLUDEPICTURE "http://www.strictlygenteel.co.uk/booklets/bookletimages/conquestcover.jpg" \* MERGEFORMATINET
PUBLISHERS
WATCHTOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY, INC.
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
Brooklyn, New York, U. S. A,
Abbreviations of translations of God's Word
quoted or cited herein
AS - American Standard Version, by the American Committee of Revision
CB -The Holy Bible, translated by the Catholic Biblical Association of America
NW - New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures
RS - Revised Standard Version, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America
Any quotation not followed by any specific abbreviation is from the Authorized or King James Version.
Made in the United States of America
WORLD CONQUEST SOON -by GOD'S KINGDOM
NO ONE likes to be conquered, for that means subjection to an enemy. But you would like to see your enemies conquered by your friends,' for that means freedom and relief to you. World con-quest by our enemies is a thing we dread; it seems to be the greatest evil, for it appears to leave us with no hope of deliverance from any quarter. But world conquest could also be by those who love us and have our interests at heart. That would be a thing to be welcomed, for it would denote the overthrow and taking away of all our foes. It would mean a change of world for us, for our good. Which conquest do all of us face? Which conquest is unavoidable, bound to come? Since A.D.1914 the movement of conditions and events in the earth indicates that sooner or later some form of centralized rule of our globe will come, yes, has to come. Men are divided on the question of whether they want such a rule or not. Those who want such a world rule disagree as to what form it should have.
...
In less than fifty years since 1914 we have had all these things, except now Armageddon itself; and Jesus said of the generation that experiences all these things, as we ourselves have: "Likewise also you, when you see all these things, know that he is near at the doors. Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur." (Matthew 24: 33, 34, NW) To show that we should rejoice rather than give way to anguish and fear with the world, he said: "As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near. ... when you see these things occurring, know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I say to you, This generation will by no means pass away until all things occur." (Luke 21:28, 31, 32, NW) We have every reason, therefore, to say without hesitation, World conquest by God's kingdom SOON! As one of the most striking evidences that God's kingdom was brought to birth in the heavens in 1914 and that soon it will meet all the foes at Armageddon and conquer, we have fulfilled already in 160 nations and territories Jesus' prophecy concerning the "time of the end": "This
29
good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for the purpose of a witness to all the nations, and then the accomplished end will come." (Matthew 24:14, NW) The published and well-known facts prove that it is Jehovah's witnesses whom he is using thus to preach the newborn Kingdom to all nations for a witness, for which reason they are undeniably His witnesses. This fact proves they are "all sons of light and sons of day" and know for a certainty the "times and the seasons" and will not be overtaken suddenly with the doomed world by the day of Armageddon's outbreak. Let all, friend or foe, who observe Jehovah's witnesses fulfilling the prophecy regarding the Kingdom preaching, know that this, too, is one of the most telling evidences of the Kingdom's presence and of its world conquest at Armageddon as being soon. Yes, "soon," not to spare civilization from havoc by heading off a new world war with atomic weapons - for Armageddon will be far more terrible than atomic world war - but because it is God's time, and the evidences do not lie. What, then, will world conquest by God's kingdom soon mean to you? Your sudden destruction? It will, if at Armageddon you are found on the side now being warned of coming destruction, this world, including Christendom. Or will it mean your deliverance? It will, if you are then found on the side of the world conquerors, Jehovah God and his reigning King Jesus Christ. That is where the New World society of Jehovah's witnesses have taken their stand, determined to stay there faithfully till Armageddon, and not only till but also through Armageddon! "Through Armaged-
30
don"? Yes, for the deliverance that we see getting near for us means being eyewitnesses of the end of Armageddon with world conquest by God's triumphant kingdom and thus surviving Armageddon into God's new world. By taking your stand with his New World society now, you may survive Armageddon into God's new world. But there is more to it than that. God's kingdom will not halt its conquests with merely the destruction of the Devil's old world. It will go on to further conquests by undoing all the evil effects, of Satan the Devil's wickedness practiced upon the human race. It will conquer the bad conditions of the earth upon which Armageddon survivors must live, one third of which earth lies desert today, with further ruin being caused by this world's ruinous policies toward the earth. It will transform this entire earth into a perfect paradise for mankind's eternal home and nourishment. It will wipe out from the minds, features and bodies of the obedient Armageddon survivors all the traces of the sin and its degradation that Satan introduced among us by our first parents Adam and Eve. The Kingdom will stop at nothing, no, not at death itself. Death and the greedy grave must yield to the triumphant Kingdom. God's Word guarantees it, with this prophecy concerning the King Jesus Christ: "He must rule as king until God has put all enemies under his feet. As the last enemy, death is to be destroyed. For God 'subjected all things under his feet'." (1 Corinthians 15: 25-27, NW) That means the resurrection of the dead. That means the wiping out of the graveyards by the returning to life of those whose
31
names appear on the gravestones. It means the offering to these of the opportunities for the rescued race of mankind, under the blessed kingdom of God by Christ, to gain perfect human life evermore in the earthly paradise by unbreakable allegiance to that government of salvation. Yes, it means not merely the survival of Armageddon by the New World society, but that the "great crowd" of these now living may never die! By continued faithfulness and integrity to God and Christ the Armageddon survivors may survive forever on earth! - Revelation 21:1-4; John 11: 25, 26; 8:51. This is what "world conquest soon - by God's kingdom" may mean to you. May your wise, God-directed course from now on let it mean that to you.
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1956*
'The Watchtower', February 1st, 1956, page 88
Cautious as Serpents Among Wolves
45 We dare not lie against God?s Word, adding to it or taking away from it, reading into it what it does not say and denying, passing over or explaining away what it does truthfully say.
?Every word of God is tried: . . . Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.? (Prov. 30:5, 6, AS)
We may not tell untruths in his name, for that puts God in the light of a liar. ?Let God be found true, though every man be found a liar.? (Rom. 3:4, NW)
In Jeremiah?s day the false prophets prophesied lies in Jehovah?s name and lied against his purpose, foretelling in his name what he had not foretold.
Therefore Jehovah was against them. He executed judgment against them at Jerusalem?s destruction in 607 B.C. (Jer. 23:25; 27:15)
Religious liars like them today cannot escape a like judgment but will meet a like end at Armageddon."
1958*
*w 1958 8/1 464 Calling the Members of the Kingdom of Heaven ***
If any of the remnant now in attendance at the room for the wedding ceremonies fall out for failure to keep on the wedding garment, others will be brought in by the King to take their places. Seeing that we are now in the closing years of this present system of things, that process may be about completed.
*** w58 10/15 p. 637 par. 44 Public Address: God’s Kingdom Rules—Is the World’s End Near? ***
44 This generation of humankind is nearing its normal end. Jesus prophesied that this generation, which saw the Gentile times end amid World War I and the beginning of world sorrows, would also see the end of those sorrows in the world’s destruction at Armageddon: “This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.” (Matt. 24:34, 35; Rev. 16:14, 16) We know not the day or hour, but the world’s end is near.
1960*
* w60 7/15 441 Staying Awake with the "Faithful and Discreet Slave"
Again we see a 'river' of water of truth being channeled to the earth out from Jehovah?s spiritual temple. The waters begin to flow through the channel of the ?slave? class from their restoration in 1919.
Note the ?river? here is described as going eastward, in the direction of greater light, apparently signifying that the Society?s publications of truth would be progressing in the light of truth as the years advanced after 1919.
*w60 7/15 442 Staying Awake with the "Faithful and Discreet Slave" ***
KEEPING AWAKE
13 The question may next be asked, ?How can one stay awake with this fast-moving ?faithful and discreet slave? class??
The members of this anointed group are years ahead in maturity, Biblical knowledge, theocratic experience and vision of Jehovah's purpose and divine will.
There are several things one can do to stay awake and abreast. First, one should keep up with the ?food at the proper time? supplied through God's proved channel and published by the Watch Tower Society.
page 443
The divine will flows to us only theocratically through God's provided leadership of the 'faithful and discreet slave.?
'The Watchtower' October 1st, 1960 page 608
"A sense of urgency"
"Time is fast running out. We may not be slothful nor may we procrastinate if we would keep clean from the blood of all men.
Truly,woe is us if we do not take advantage of every opportunity to warn allwe can. Let us give the warning with earnestness and intensity, yes,with a sense of urgency as though this were our last time to warn ourhearers. Who knows how soon this actually will be the case?"
1961*
*** w61 6/1 p. 336 par. 9 Loving Use of What We Are Given ***
9 Regular gathering together in congregation meetings must be enforced. Individuals ought to discipline themselves to attend congregation gatherings and should encourage one another, especially in these evil days as we come near the end of Satan’s wicked system of things.
1964*
w64 9/15 574 - Kneel down before reading the Watchtower
In contrast to the attitude of these elective elders was that of an elderly couple with whom I stayed on the outskirts of Richmond, Virginia.
The brother went down to get the mail before breakfast, and when we had breakfast he said, "Brother Riemer, I got a new Watchtower this morning, and do you know the first thing that Ma and I do when we get that Tower?
We kneel down before we take the wrapper off and ask Jehovah to make us worthy to see what the message is that Jehovah has for us. Now, before we take the wrapper off, will you kneel down and pray with us?"
How different that elective elder was from this humble couple who appreciated Jehovah's organization!
1966*
'The Watchtower', April 1. 1966, page 195-6.
?Franz went on to explain that the remarks of the speaker were
perfectly sane, for God?s Word foresaw the end of World War II, andfollowing it a postwar peace that would not last. ?Now, here we are,'Franz continued, 'in the twenty-first year of this peace since WorldWar II, and the prediction is that this peace will not last. . . .
It should fill you with a sense of urgency,? Franz told the students, ?to realize that the sands in the hourglass up above are running out, and the time is coming to a close for this work that has to be done before this peace ends.?
* Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God '(book) 1966 pp. 26-30
The time is fast drawing near for the reality that was foreshadowed by the Jubilee of liberty to be proclaimed throughout the earth to all mankind... Most certainly the near future would be the most appropriate time for it. God's own written Word indicates that it is the appointed time for it... In this twentieth century an independent study has been carried on that does not blindly follow some traditional chronological calculations of Christendom, and the published timetable resulting from this independent study gives the date of man's creation as 4026 B.C.E. So six thousand years of man's existence on earth will soon be up, yes, within this generation.. Since the time of Ussher intensive study of Bible chronology has been carried on. In this twentieth century an independent study has been carried on that does not blindly follow some traditional chronological calculations of Christendom, and the published timetable resulting from this independent study gives the date of man's creation as 4026 B.C.E. According to this trustworthy Bible chronology six thousand years from man's creation will end in 1975, and the seventh period of a thousand years of human history will begin in the fall of 1975 C.E. So six thousand years of man's existence on earth will soon be up, yes, within this generation. Jehovah God is timeless, as it is written in Psalm 90:1, 2: "O Jehovah, you yourself have proved to be a real dwelling for us during generation after generation. Before the mountains themselves were born, or you proceeded to bring forth as with labor pains the earth and the productive land, even from time indefinite to time indefinite you are God." So from the standpoint of Jehovah God these passing six thousand years of man's existence are but as six days of twenty-four hours, for this same psalm (verses 3, 4) goes on to say: "You make mortal man go back to crushed matter, and you say: `Go back, you sons of men.' For a thousand years are in your eyes but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch during the night." So in not many years within our own generation we are reaching what Jehovah God could view as the seventh day of man's existence. How appropriate it would be for Jehovah God to make of this coming seventh period of a thousand years a sabbath period of rest and release, a great Jubilee sabbath for the proclaiming of liberty throughout the earth to all its inhabitants! This would be most timely for mankind. It would also be most fitting on God's part, for, remember, mankind has yet ahead of it what the last book of the Holy Bible speaks of as the reign of Jesus Christ over earth for a thousand years, the millennial reign of Christ. Prophetically Jesus Christ, when on earth nineteen centuries ago, said concerning himself: "For Lord of the sabbath is what the Son of man is." (Matthew 12: 8). It would not be by mere chance or accident but would be according to the loving purpose of Jehovah God for the reign of Jesus Christ, the 'Lord of the Sabbath,' to run parallel with the seventh "
* Awake! October 8 1966 pp.19-20
'How Much Longer Will It Be?'
6,000 Years Completed in 1975 ? In what year, then, would the first 6,000 years of man's existence and also the first 6,000 years of God's rest day come to an end? The year 1975? Hence, the fact that we are nearing the end of the first 6,000 years of man's existence is of great significance. Does God's rest day parallel the time man has been on earth since his creation? Apparently so. From the most reliable investigations of Bible chronology, harmonizing with many accepted dates of secular history, we find that Adam was created in the autumn of the year 4026 B.C.E. Sometime in that same year Eve could well have been created, directly after which God's rest day commenced ? There is another chronological indication that we are rapidly nearing the closing time for this wicked system of things. It is the fact that shortly, according to reliable Bible chronology, 6,000 years of human history will come to an end.. After six thousand years of toil and bondage to sin, sickness, death and Satan, mankind is due to enjoy a rest and is in dire need of a rest. (Heb. 4:1-11) Hence, the fact that we are nearing the end of the first 6,000 years of man's existence is of great significance.. In what year, then, would the first 6,000 years of man's existence and also the first 6,000 years of God's rest day come to an end? The year 1975. This is worthy of notice, particularly in view of the fact that the 'last days' began in 1914, and that the physical facts of our day in fulfillment of prophecy mark this as the last generation of this wicked world. So we can expect the immediate future to be filled with thrilling events for those who rest their faith in God and his promises. It means that within relatively few years we will witness the fulfillment of the remaining prophecies that have to do with the 'time of the end.'
'The Watchtower ' 1966 October 15th p.631
Rejoicing over "God's Sons of Liberty" Spiritual Feast
THE YEAR 1975
At the Baltimore assembly Brother Franz in his closing remarks made some interesting comments regarding the year 1975. He began casually by saying, "Just before I got on the platform a young man came to me and said, 'Say, what does this 1975 mean? Does it mean this, that or any other thing?'" In part, Brother Franz went on to say: 'You have noticed the chart [on pages 31-35 in the book Life Everlasting-in Freedom of the Sons of God]. It shows that 6,000 years of human experience will end in 1975, about nine years from now. What does that mean?
Does it mean that God's rest day began 4026 B.C.E.? It could have.
The Life Everlasting book does not say it did not. The book merely presents the chronology. You can accept it or reject it. If that is the case, what does that mean to us? [He went into some length showing the feasibility of the 4026 B.C.E. date as being the beginning of God's rest day.]
'What about the year 1975? What is it going to mean, dear friends?' asked Brother Franz. 'Does it mean that Armageddon is going to be finished, with Satan bound, by 1975?
It could!
It could! All things are possible with God.
Does it mean that Babylon the Great is going to go down by 1975? It could.
Does it mean that the attack of Gog of Magog is going to be made on Jehovah's witnesses to wipe them out, then Gog himself will be put out of action? It could.
But we are not saying.
All things are possible with God. But we are not saying.
And don't any of you be specific in saying anything that is going to happen between now and 1975.
But the big point of it all is this, dear friends: Time is short. Time is running out, no question about that.
'When we were approaching the end of the Gentile Times in 1914, there was no sign that the Gentile Times were going to end. Conditions on earth gave us no hint of what was to come, even as late as June of that year. Then suddenly there was a murder. World War I broke out. You know the rest. Famines, earthquakes and pestilences followed, as Jesus foretold would happen.
'But what do we have today as we approach 1975? Conditions have not been peaceful. We've been having world wars, famines, earthquakes, pestilences and we have these conditions still as we approach 1975. Do these things mean something? These things mean that we're in the "time of the end." And the end has to come sometime. Jesus said: "As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near." (Luke 21:28) So we know that as we come to 1975 our deliverance is that much nearer.'
"Let us make the most of the time and get in all the good hard work to Jehovah while the opportunity affords," he urged."
... “The new book compels us to realize that Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed
(from the w. 10/15 1966 pages 628-629)
*** w66 10/15 628-9 Rejoicing over "God's Sons of Liberty" Spiritual Feast ***
To give aid today in this critical time to prospective sons of God,” announced President Knorr, “a new book in English, entitled ‘Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God,’ has been published.” At all assembly points where it was released, the book was received enthusiastically. Crowds gathered around stands and soon supplies of the book were depleted. Immediately its contents were examined. It did not take the brothers very long to find the chart beginning on page 31, showing that 6,000 years of man’s existence end in 1975. Discussion of 1975 overshadowed about everything else. “The new book compels us to realize that Armageddon is, in fact, very close indeed,” said a conventioner. Surely it was one of the outstanding blessings to be carried home!
“Liberty is to know Christian truth,” the eager audiences at a number of the assemblies heard F. W. Franz, the Watch Tower Society’s vice-president, say in his discourse “Liberty-giving Worship and Freedom of Worship.” “It is those who worship the one living and true God Jehovah through his Son Jesus Christ that are set free. Jehovah’s witnesses strive to keep the liberty that their practice of pure worship gives to them,” declared Franz.
OOOOO
1967*
'The Watchtower ' 1967 May 1st p.262 Where Are We According to God's Timetable?
THE END OF 6,000 YEARS
In examining these Scriptural facts, something else also captures our attention
. According to Bible chronology, we are already over fifty-two years into the wicked system of things' "time of the end."
That time began in the autumn of 1914 C.E., at the termination of the "appointed times of the nations," and it is already far advanced.
Jesus said that "this generation" that saw the beginning of this time period in 1914 would also see its end.
The generation that was old enough to view those events with understanding in 1914 is no longer young.
It no longer has many years to run.
Already many of its members have died. But Jesus showed that there would still be members of "this generation" alive at the time of the passing away of this wicked system of things in both heaven and earth. (Luke 21:32, 33)
How much longer will it be, then, before God takes action to destroy the wicked and usher in the blessings of his Kingdom rule?
Interestingly, the autumn of the year 1975 marks the end of 6,000 years of human experience. This is ascertainable from reliable chronology preserved in the Bible itself. What will that year mean for humankind? Will it be the time when God executes the wicked and starts off the thousand-year reign of his Son Jesus Christ?
It very well could, but we will have to wait to see.
Yet of this we can be certain: the generation that Jesus said would witness those events is nearing its close. The time is close at hand. On God's "timetable" we are in the closing days of a wicked system of things that will soon be gone forever. A glorious new order is immediately before us. This is, therefore, good reason for Christians everywhere to rejoice. Yes, they rejoice because fulfillment of their prayers for the kingdom of God is now at hand.-Luke 21:28.
Therefore, keep in mind the admonition of the Lord Jesus when speaking of our day: "Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man." (Luke 21:36) The prophecy is sure; the time is short."
1968*
*** w68 5/1 pp. 272-273 Making Wise Use of the Remaining Time ***
7 The immediate future is certain to be filled with climactic events, for this old system is nearing its complete end.
Within a few years at most the final parts of Bible prophecy relative to these ‘last days’ will undergo fulfillment, resulting in the liberation of surviving mankind into Christ?s glorious 1,000-year reign. What difficult days, but, at the same time, what grand days are just ahead!
8 Does this mean that the year 1975 will bring the battle of Armageddon? No one can say with certainty what any particular year will bring. Jesus said: ?Concerning that day or the hour nobody knows.? (Mark 13:32)
Sufficient is it for God?s servants to know for a certainty that, for this system under Satan, time is running out rapidly.
How foolish a person would be not to be awake and alert to the limited time remaining, to the earthshaking events soon to take place, and to the need to work out one?s salvation!
. -'The Watchtower ' August 15th, 1968 pages 499-501 -
"This is, therefore, no time to be indifferent and complacent. This is not the time to be toying with the words of Jesus that 'concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.'
To the contrary, it is a time when one should be keenly aware that the end of this system of things is rapidly coming to its violent end. "
*w 1968 8/15/1968 pages 499-501
This is, therefore, no time to be indifferent and complacent. This is not the time to be toying with the words of Jesus that 'concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.' To the contrary, it is a time when one should be keenly aware that the end of this system of things is rapidly coming to its violent end. ".
Awake! October 8 1968 pp. 14-15 ***
6,000 Years Nearing Completion [?] The fact that fifty-four years of the period called the 'last days' have already gone by is highly significant. It means that only a few years, at most, remain before the corrupt system of things dominating the earth is destroyed by God. Today, many years later, we may ask, What does the phrase 'the immediate future' mean? How many years are 'a few years at most'? [?] According to reliable Bible chronology, Adam and Eve were created in 4026 B.C.E.. There is another way that helps confirm the fact that we are living in the final few years of this 'time of the end.' (Dan. 12:9)
From the book
« Truth that Leads to eternal life » published in 1968
by the WTBS Inc.
*** tr 94-5 11 The Last Days of This Wicked System of Things
THE Bible speaks of the time in which we are living as the ?last days? or the ?time of the end.? (2 Timothy 3:1; Daniel 11:40) The facts show that this is a limited period that has a definite beginning and a definite end. It began in 1914 when Jesus Christ was enthroned as king in the heavens.
It will end when God destroys this present wicked system of things. What a relief it will be when the organizations and persons that cheat and oppress, and all who endanger the security of their fellowmen, are gone!
2 How soon will that be? God?s own Son, Jesus Christ, gives the answer.
After drawing attention to the many things that mark the period from 1914 onward as the ?time of the end,? Jesus said: ?This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.? (Matthew 24:34)
Which generation did he mean?
3 Jesus had just referred to persons who would ?see all these things.? ?These things? are the events that have taken place since 1914 and those yet to occur down to the end of this wicked system. (Matthew 24:33)
Persons born even as much as fifty years ago could not see ' all these things.? They came on the scene after the foretold events were already under way.
But there are people still living who were alive in 1914 and saw what was happening then and who were old enough that they still remember those events.
This generation is getting up in years now.
A great number of them have already passed away in death. Yet Jesus very pointedly said: ?This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.? Some of them will still be alive to see the end of this wicked system.
This means that only a short time is left before the end comes! (Psalm 90:10 [89:10, Dy])
So now is the time to take urgent action if you do not want to be swept away with this wicked system.
1969*
*** Awake! 1969 May 22 page 15
If you are a young person, you also need to face the fact that you will never grow old in this present system of things. Why not? Because all the evidence in fulfillment of Bible prophecy indicates that this corrupt system is due to end in a few years. Of the generation that observed the beginning of the ‘last days’ in 1914, Jesus foretold: ‘This generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.’ Therefore, as a young person, you will never fulfill any career that this system offers. If you are in high school and thinking about a college education, it means at least four, perhaps even six or eight more years to graduate into a specialized career. But where will this system of things be by that time? It will be well on the way towards its finish, if not actually gone! This is why parents who base their lives on God’s prophetic Word find it much more practical to direct their young ones into trades that do not require such long periods of additional schooling… True, those who do not understand where we are in the stream of time from God’s viewpoint will call this impractical. But which is really practical: preparing yourself for a position in this world that soon will pass away? or working toward surviving this system’s end and enjoying eternal life in God’s righteous new order?
'The Watchtower', June 1. 1969, page 347.
?They Are Acting on What They Are Learning
But when they were told about the new six-month Bible-study
arrangement, they were visibly touched. Now for the first time a real sense of urgency struck them. They could not bear the thought of having all connections with Jehovah?s people severed.
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1970*
'The Watchtower ' , February 15th 1970, page 121.
?What so amazed the onlookers??
It was the sense of urgency that motivates them.
That sense of urgency stems from the knowledge, gleaned from the Bible, that soon now, not many years hence, Jehovah?s judgment against a wicked system of things on earth will be executed.?
*** w70 5/1 p. 267 Keep Close in Mind ?The Conclusion of the System of Things? ***
HOW DO WE KNOW?
9 But you may ask, How do we know these things will really come, that there actually will be a conclusion to this system of things? There are quite a number of proofs. Several events are recorded in history when earlier systems of things came to their end, those events being prophetic of our time. We also have Jesus? testimony and that of other inspired writers regarding the conclusion of this system. Bible chronology indicates the rapid approach of the end for this old system under the god of this world, Satan.
*** w70 5/1 p. 275 An Ingathering Affecting All Mankind ***
The present Christian system will continue until the last member of Christ?s spiritual body completes his earthly course sometime after Armageddon.
By that time Satan?s present wicked system of things will have been replaced by Jehovah?s new system, his new heavens and new earth in which righteousness will dwell.
*** w70 5/1 p. 273 An Ingathering Affecting All Mankind ***
How close we may exactly be to the end of the present divisive system of things cannot be predicted, as Jesus reported that even he did not know the day or the hour at the time of his earthly ministry. (Matt. 24:36)
However, Bible chronology which indicates that Adam was created in the fall of the year 4026 B.C.E. would bring us down to the year 1975 C.E. as the date marking 6,000 years of human history with yet 1,000 years to come for Christ?s Kingdom rule.
So whatever the date for the end of this system, it is clear that the time left is reduced, with only approximately six years left until the end of 6,000 years of human history. (1 Cor. 7:29)
This corroborates the understanding of Jesus? words that the generation alive in 1914 with the outbreak of World War I would not pass away until the end comes.
Only a short time, then, remains for persons who love righteousness to show God that they want to be in his ?ark? of protection and live to see the blessings of the new system of things.?Matt. 24:34-42.
*** w70 5/1 pp. 276-277 An Ingathering Affecting All Mankind ***
NEED FOR ACTION NOW
16 The time is very short now for further preaching and teaching of God?s kingdom among the political nations. So it is important for us now to show that we are no part of the present system of things but that we are living for the new system and the blessings it will bring. If we want to live through this ?time of the end? on the nations to enjoy Jehovah?s righteous new system under Christ the King, then there is no time to be lost.
Remember that not only the Bible but also world leaders have attested to the urgency of the times in which we live.
The few remaining years of this generation do not give much time during which we can show Jehovah we truly want to be pleasing to him so that we will be privileged to enjoy life at his hand in the new system of things.
We need to schedule our affairs to show him what really is first in our lives. We need to study his Word to keep our faith strong, to get to the Kingdom Hall to enjoy the meetings that have been prepared by the ?faithful and discreet slave? class, and to share the truth with others, especially now as we ?behold the day drawing near.? Are you willing to do this??Heb. 10:25.
*** w70 4/15 pp. 245-246 Questions That People Ask About Jehovah’s Witnesses ***
Jehovah’s witnesses want people to know that God is going to bring an end to wicked conditions in the earth and replace them with righteousness by means of his perfect, heavenly Kingdom government. The time for that to happen is very near; it is to occur in this generation.
*** km 6/70 p. 1 Why Not Before Now? ***
Why Not Before Now?
1 Why has not the “great tribulation” come before now? Is it because the world is not bad enough? No! Is it because Jehovah is slow? No, rather, he is most patient. (2 Pet. 3:9) He knows the day and hour and will not postpone it. (Matt. 24:36) Why, then, has the “great tribulation” not come before now? Because Jehovah, in setting the time for it to break, has foreseen the need for time in which to preach the good news “in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations.” “Then the end will come.” (Matt. 24:14) That day and hour is near!
1971*
*From the book "The Nations Shall Know That I Am Jehovah"-How? * (published in 1971) *** kj 216-7 12 "Until He Comes Who Has the Legal Right" **
JEHOVAH' SWORD' AGAINST ALL THOSE OF FLESH '
9 Shortly, within our twentieth century, the 'battle in the day of Jehovah' will begin against the modern antitype of Jerusalem, Christendom. The ancient ?soil of Israel? pictures the realm in which Christendom has operated. It pictures the standing and relationship that Christendom has claimed to occupy with God by means of his ?new covenant? of which Jesus Christ is the mediator. Now is no time for anyone in Christendom to rely on any righteousness on the basis of his own merits and to boast of his own self-righteousness."
*w 1971 9/15 570-1 God Wisely Selects Earth's Rulers ***
Bible prophecy foretold that Christ would take Kingdom power while the worldly nations were still active. (Ps. 2:1-6; 110:1, 2) On taking Kingdom power, he would give early attention to those of the 144,000 who had died. Then he would proceed to gather together all his prospective Kingdom associates on earth, called a 'remnant,' for testing and final approval. (1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Rev. 12:10, 17) World conditions in fulfillment of prophecy indicate that we are in the closing days of this gathering, called the "harvest." With its completion and the destruction of the present wicked system and its administration, Christ and his associate kings and priests will begin the thousand-year reign for the blessing of mankind.-Matt. 13:37-40; Rev. 11:18; 19:19-21; 20:1-4, 6.
1973*
'The Watchtower' , July 1st 1973, page 405.
'There is need to participate in that work with a sense of urgency, too, for the end of this wicked system of things is drawing near.
The time is short. The harvest is great and the workers are few.?
*g 1973 11/8 p. 6 Why You Should Be Concerned ***
Why? Because in so many areas human failure is not just a 'passing phase. It is direct evidence in fulfillment of Bible prophecy showing that we are living in the closing years of this wicked system of things. Long ago the Bible foretold of our generation that "wicked men and impostors will advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled." (2 Tim. 3:13)
1974*
*** km 5/74 p. 3 How Are You Using Your Life? ***
Yes, the end of this system is so very near! Is that not reason to increase our activity?
In this regard we can learn something from a runner who puts on a final burst of speed near the finish of a race.
Look at Jesus, who apparently stepped up his activity during his final days on earth. In fact, over 27 percent of the material in the Gospels is devoted to just the last week of Jesus? earthly ministry!?Matt. 21:1?27:50; Mark 11:1?15:37; Luke 19:29?23:46; John 11:55?19:30.
By carefully and prayerfully examining our own circumstances, we also may find that we can spend more time and energy in preaching during this final period before the present system ends. Many of our brothers and sisters are doing just that. This is evident from the rapidly increasing number of pioneers.
Yes, since the summer of 1973 there have been new peaks in pioneers every month. Now there are 20,394 regular and special pioneers in the United States, an all-time peak. That is 5,190 more than there were in February 1973! A 34-percent increase! Does that not warm our hearts?
Reports are heard of brothers selling their homes and property and planning to finish out the rest of their days in this old system in the pioneer service. Certainly this is a fine way to spend the short time remaining before the wicked world?s end.?1 John 2:17.
'The Watchtower' , October 15th 1974, page 631.
?They feel a sense of urgency as they talk to people, for they look upon the short time remaining for this system of things as a time of Jehovah?s exercise of patience, knowing that he does not desire the death of anyone.?
*** w74 10/15 p. 635 Growing in Appreciation for the ?Divine Purpose? ***
The publications of Jehovah?s witnesses have shown that, according to Bible chronology, it appears that 6,000 years of man?s existence will be completed in the mid-1970?s.
But these publications have never said that the world?s end would come then.
Nevertheless, there has been considerable individual speculation on the matter.
So the assembly presentation ?Why We Have Not Been Told ?That Day and Hour?? was very timely.
It emphasized that we do not know the exact time when God will bring the end.
All we know is that the end will come within the generation that sees fulfilled on it the sign that Jesus Christ said would then be in evidence. (See Matthew chapters 24, 25.) All indications are that the fulfillment of this sign began in 1914.
So we can be confident that the end is near; we do not have the slightest doubt that God will bring it about, the speaker stressed. But we have to wait and see exactly when, in the meantime keeping busy in God?s service.
*** w74 12/15 pp. 764-765
Benefits and Rewards from Being Spiritually Secure ***
29 On Sunday afternoon, July 26, 1931, at the international convention of the I.B.S.A. in Columbus, Ohio, there came the heartfelt adoption of the Resolution in favor of embracing the New Name, Jehovah?s witnesses. Thereafter this Resolution was adopted by congregations around the world that thenceforth identified their religious organization as Jehovah?s witnesses. To advertise the divine name still further, on March 1, 1939, some months before World War II broke out, the official magazine of the Witnesses came forth with the new legend, ?The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah?s Kingdom.? And now, as the critical year of 1975 enters, it may well be asked: Has the Most High God of prophecy made a name for himself? The answer is self-evident, Yes! By whom? Not by Christendom or by Jewry, but by Jehovah?s Christian witnesses!
Page 766
36 Only from the end of the year 1928 was the prospect opened up to the spiritual understanding of the anointed remnant of the ?Israel of God? to survive the ?war of the great day of God the Almighty? at Har?Magedon and enter here on earth into Jehovah?s righteous new order. (See The Watch Tower under date of December 15, 1928, page 376, paragraphs 35, 36.)
And now, as the year 1975 opens up, some thousands of the anointed remnant, still alive on this earth, look ahead to realizing that joyful prospect. The increasing ?great crowd? of their sheeplike companions look forward with them to entering the New Order without interruption of life.?
1982*
From the book ‘You can live forever..’ published by the WTBS Inc, in 1982 :
*** pe 154 18 "The End of the World" Is at Hand! ***
8 After drawing attention to the many things that have marked the period from 1914 onward, Jesus said: ?This generation will by no means pass away until all these things [including the end of this system] occur.? (Matthew 24:34, 14) Which generation did Jesus mean? He meant the generation of people who were living in 1914.
Those persons yet remaining of that generation are now very old.
However, some of them will still be alive to see the end of this wicked system. So of this we can be certain:
Shortly now there will be a sudden end to all wickedness and wicked people at Armageddon.
******************************************End of part Two ****************************************
Greetings,
J.C.MacHislopp
P.S. I have to add that the Word version looks much better, but as I wrote to the
Administrator of this forum it is refused.
hello everyone,.
following a request and also for the benefit of new ones,.
'm posting a revised and updated version on the above topic.. due to its lenght i'll be posting it in 3 parts.. greetings,.
Hello everyone,
here is Part One:
Armageddon.. and the ...' time of the end '
Part I - from 1921 to 1951 -
Reminders :
*** g70 4/22 8 Changes That Disturb People ***
THE churches are in rapid decline.
…. Why is there this decline in religion?
One of the reasons is that people are disturbed by what is happening in their churches. Yes, millions of persons have been shocked to learn that things they were taught as being vital for salvation are now considered by their church to be wrong. Have you, too, felt discouragement, or even despair, because of what is happening in your church? A businessman in Medellín, Colombia, expressed the effect the changes have had on many.
“Tell me,” he asked, “how can I have confidence in anything? How can I believe in the Bible, in God, or have faith? Just ten years ago we Catholics had the absolute truth, we put all our faith in this. Now the pope and our priests are telling us this is not the way to believe any more, but we are to believe ‘new things.’ How do I know the ‘new things’ will be the truth in five years?”
What are some of these changes that disturb people?
...
page 9 Should Meat Be Eaten on Friday? ***
If you are a Catholic, can you understand how a practice that was considered by the Church a “mortal sin” can suddenly be approved? if it was a sin five years ago, why is it not today? Many Catholics cannot understand.
...
Not just a few Catholics have asked such questions. The change in teaching has shaken their confidence in the Church. Would you not feel the same way if what you had always been taught to be vital for salvation was suddenly considered unnecessary? Would you not be inclined to question other teachings of your church also?
...
page 10
Thus, many truth-seekers are having their eyes opened to see that the Catholic Church has not been holding strictly to God’s Word. And they are wondering whether any religion that does not do so is worthy of their confidence and support.
...
page 11
A Stand for Truth?
"True religion does its utmost to correct error and inform people of the truth. "
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
'The Golden Age' January 18th, 1933 page 252
"If the message the Jehovah's Witnesses are bringing to the people is true, then it is of greatest importance to mankind.
If it is false, then it is the duty of the clergymen and others who support them to come boldly forward and plainly tell the people wherein the message is false."
*** w59 10/1 607-8 Questions from Readers *
Who are the writers of the publications of the Watch Tower Society, and what are their educational qualifications?
M.D., U.S.A.
The literature published by the Watch Tower Society is published in the name of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. Regardless of who may write certain articles, they are checked carefully by members of the governing body before they are published; so they are properly viewed as coming from the Society.
They prefer to remain anonymous, not because of their educational background but in order that the students of the literature may concentrate on the truths and the facts presented instead of upon the identity of the writer and being influenced by who he is. They prefer that the Society and not the individual contributor to its publications should be the thing to recommend the Watch Tower publications to all readers and that the attention of readers should be directed to the organization that is being used by Jehovah God as his instrument rather than to any individual.?Matt. 24:45-47.
So we let the literature speak for itself. The scholarliness of it, the logical presentation of the Scriptures that it sets forth and its faithful adherence to the Bible are the things that should impress the reader and that should convince him that this is the Bible truth.
Worldly scholarship is not the thing to be required.
The Bible shows that it was possession of the holy spirit that was the important factor in the writing of the books of the Bible and that it moved men of faith to record God?s Word. (2 Pet. 1:21; Acts 28:25)
Thus it is that the world, with its wisdom, has not come to know God and understand his purposes, because it does not have the wisdom that comes from above.
With these things in mind, we encourage all who seek the Bible truth to see the prime necessity of the possession of the holy spirit on the part of those who are responsible for the material that goes into the publications of our Society.
The evidence of the holy spirit in the quality and content of the writings published by the Watch Tower Society should be the thing that satisfies, that convinces, together with a comparison of these things with the inspired Word of God, the Holy Scriptures."
*** g84 8/22 p. 28 From Our Readers ***
You all loved it, didn't you? You couldn't resist taking a shot at the Catholic Church, could you? I will never forgive the way you mercilessly tore down the Pope. If Jehovah's Witnesses must refer to cheap shots in attempting to bring down other religions, they're in more trouble than the Catholics.
M. C., Florida
We surely were not trying to take cheap shots at the pope or the Catholic Church, nor were we criticizing Catholics. The Catholic Church occupies a very significant position in the world and claims to be the way of salvation for hundreds of millions of people.
Any organization that assumes that position should be willing to submit to scrutiny and criticism.
All who criticize have the obligation to be truthful in presenting the facts and fair and objective in assessing such. In both respects we try to live up to that obligation.?ED.
** w94 1/1 20 The Watchtower and Awake!-Timely Journals of Truth Magazines That Advocate Truth
3 Jehovah is the God of truth. (Psalm 31:5) His Word, the Bible, is a book of truth. (John 17:17) Honesthearted people respond to truth. (Compare John 4:23, 24.) One reason that TheWatchtower and Awake! have touched the hearts of millions of readers is that they are journals of integrity and truth. In fact, it was over the issue of loyalty to Bible truth that TheWatchtower began to be published."
"The Watchtower" May, 1st , 2002 page 16, paragraph 9 )
"Comparably, for more than a century now, the anointed brothers of Christ, those with the heavenly hope, have served as " a holy
priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God."
(1 Peter 2:5)
They have taken the lead in dispensing Bible truths
to others. As you have learned truths that they teach, have you not found from experience that the very law of truth has proved to be in their mouth? They have helped to turn many back from religious error, so that now ther are millions throughout the world who have learned Bible truths and who have the hope of everlasting life.
These, in turn, have the privilege of teaching the law of truth to yet other millions.- John 10:16; Revelation 7:9 .-"
"The Watchtower" May, 1st , 2002 page 16, paragraph 10)
" It would be easy to develop the habit of couching one's words in terms that are technically accurate but misleading. Or one might exaggerate or hide details in a business matter. Would Jehovah not see that? And if we followed such practices, would he accept sacrifices of praise from our lips? «
From The Watchtower February 15th, 2004, page 16
paragraph 8 :
What methods do apostates use to achieve their aim?
They often resort to distortion, half-truths, and
outright falsehoods.?
Let’s begin , starting the quotes from the year 1921:
1921*
(From the book : The Harp of God, published in the year 1921, Preface and page 251)
The Harp of God
The Harp of God
A text-book for Bible study specially
adapted for use of beginners; with numerous
questions and Scripture citations
By J. F. Rutherford
Author of
Creation
Deliverance
Where are the Dead?
Comfort for the Jews
Our Lord's Return
Hell
3,710,000 Edition
Publishers
International Bible Students Association
Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A.
Also
London, Toronto, Melbourne, Cape Town, Berne, Magdeburg, etc.
To the invisible King of Glory now present
in the interest of
the generation now on earth who
will become his loyal subjects
this book is dedicated
"I charge thee therefore before God, and the
Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the
quick and the dead at his appearing
and his kingdom." — 2 Tim. 4:1.
Copyrighted 1921 by
Peoples Pulpit Association
Brooklyn. N. Y., U. S. A.
Made in U. S. A.
1928
Preface
.....Promise was made that greater light should come at the end of the age, and this promise has been kept. We are at that time, as is clearly proven by the contents herein. This book points out the salient features of the divine plan, which plan is both orderly and progressive.
People generally have not been thoroughly instructed in the Bible. Even those who have attended the Sunday schools have merely learned the text and not the meaning of the text Like the prophets of old, they have heard but understood not. The real reason for these conditions is that God's plan could not be understood until his due time to reveal it. His due time is here.
Because of the dispensational change taking place at this time, Bible study was never so important as now. If important to educate the rising generation in the things taught in our common schools, with stronger reasoning is it important to educate them concerning that which is now being revealed of the divine program for the uplifting and blessing of mankind.
There is no disposition, desire, nor attempt to induce any one reading this book to become a member of any organization, sect, or denomination. The sole purpose of the book is to aid honest seekers for truth in their endeavors to understand the Bible, to learn the meaning of the present-day events, and to prepare some at least to receive the blessings that are soon due to mankind.
....It is conceded by everybody that these changes began with the World War and that they continue. But what do they mean? The real answer is that the old world, or social and political order, has ended and is passing away, and that a new and better order is due and will shortly be established. Every parent owes it to his child to instruct him insofar as possible concerning the incoming new order or government. The contents of this book will start you in the right way.
....The harp of God, when understood and skilfully used, brings peace of mind and gladness of heart. The title of this book suggests the thought of good cheer and happiness. The message herein contained, taken from the Word of God, is sent forth with the prayer that it may be a blessing to many, that it may cheer some who are sad, bind up some broken hearts, comfort some that mourn, and give all who earnestly read a deeper appreciation of Jehovah and the Savior of mankind.
Brooklyn, N. Y., October 1, 1921.
.....
CHAPTER VI
String 5: The Ransom
....Napoleon began this Egyptian campaign in 1798, finished
234
it and returned to France on October 1, 1799. The campaign is briefly, yet graphically, described in the prophecy, verses 40 to 44; and being completed in 1799 marks, according to the prophet's own words, the beginning of the "time of the end".
396 Prom the time of the overthrow of Zedekiah (606 B. C.) and the establishment of the Gentile universal empire under Nebuchadnezzar, the organizations of the world powers or governments have been designated in the Scriptures by God's prophet as "beasts". The Prophet Daniel (7:7, 8) describes "a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible". This terrible beast was a form of government composed of three elements or component parts, namely, professional politicians, great financiers, and ecclesiastical leaders.
...Twelve hundred sixty years from 539 A. D. brings us to 1799, another proof that 1799 definitely marks the beginning of "the time of the end".
...Applying the same rule, then, of a day for a year, 1335 days after 539 A. D. brings us to 1874 A. D., at which time, according to Biblical chronology, the Lord's second presence is due. If this calculation is correct, from that time forward we ought to be able to find some evidences marking the Lord's presence.
236
....Scriptures. The purpose here is to call attention to certain important dates and then see how much, if any, prophecy has been fulfilled within these dates. Chronology, to some extent at least, depends upon accurate calculations and there is always some possibility of mistakes. Fulfilled prophecy is the record of physical facts which are actually existent and definitely fixed. Physical facts do not stultify themselves. They stand as silent witnesses whose testimony must be taken as indisputable.
400 There are two important dates here that we must not confuse, but clearly differentiate, namely, the beginning of "the time of the end" and of "the presence of the Lord". "The time of the end" embraces a period from 1799 A. D., as above indicated, to the time of the complete overthrow of Satan's empire and the establishment of the kingdom of the Messiah. The time of the Lord's second presence dates from 1874, as above stated. The latter period is within the first named, of course, and in the latter part of the period known as "the time of the end".
401 The understanding of the prophecies with reference to "the time of the end" and the Lord's presence was purposely concealed by Jehovah until the due time.
....
245
that the Lord there began to cleanse the antitypical temple; and that shortly after that nominal Christendom, or nominal spiritual Israel, would be completely rejected by the Lord.
EVIDENCE IN PROOF
420 Evidence is that which is submitted to ascertain and establish the truth upon a question at issue or for determination.
Positive evidence is that which is given by witnesses who testify to things which they have seen and know to be true.
Circumstantial evidence is a combination of harmonious circumstances which naturally lead to a certain result, as effect from cause.
...
END OF THE WORLD
251
....is definitely fixed in the Scriptures as a period of seven symbolic times of 360 years each, or a total of 2,520 years. This period beginning with the year 606 B. C. necessarily must end in 1914 A. D. God had declared that he would overturn the right of the descendants of Abraham to rule, thereby permitting the Gentiles to have an uninterrupted sway until he should come whose right it is. The one whose right it is, is the great Messiah, Christ Jesus the Lord. It would be reasonable to expect him to be present some time before he would take unto himself his great power to reign. His presence beginning in 1874, he has carried on his harvest work from 1878 forward, but has not interrupted the Gentile dominion until that dominion should end. The end of the Gentile rule, therefore, would mark necessarily the end of the world. We should expect, then, to find 1914 as the beginning of the end of the old world or Satan's organization. And that this would take place during the presence of the Lord he definitely stated.
...
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1925*
(from the booklet : ' Comfort For The People' published in the year 1925 - page 19 -)
COMFORT FOR THE PEOPLE
1. Why is the Outlook for the World so Dark?
Page Eleven
2. Why Clergymen Are Scoffers.
Page Twenty-one
3. Why are the Nations so Desperately Preparing for War?
Page Thirty-three
4. Why the Agitation Amongst the Jews
Concerning the Rebuilding of Palestine?
Page Thirty-six
5. Can the World be Stabilized?
Page Forty
6. What is Meant by the Kingdom of Heaven?
Page Forty-two
7. What Blessings May the People
Expect to Come from It?
Page Forty-six
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION Brooklyn, N. Y.
COMFORT FOR THE PEOPLE
written by
J. F. Rutherford
author of
"The Harp of God"
"World Distress — Why?"
"Can the Living Talk with the Dead?"
"Millions Now Living Will Never Die!"
etc., etc.
PRINTED IN U. S. A.
Copyrighted 1925 by
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
Brooklyn, N. Y.
COMFORT FOR THE PEOPLE
"For we know that the whole creation groaneth and
travaileth in pain together until now" "Bless-
ed are they that mourn: for they
shall be comforted." — Ro-
mans 8:22; Mat-
thew 5:4.
THE year 1925 is just beginning. Thoughtful men at such times try to scan the horizon to see what are the prospects for the year. Two gentlemen meet in a great metropolis of the world. Both of them being men of large sympathies, and desiring to see humanity bettered, their conversation quickly turns to the subject of the outlook for the future. For convenience we call one of them by the name Mr. Hunger; the other, Mr. Barnabas.
MR. HUNGER: These are strangely peculiar times in which we are living, Mr. Barnabas. I am not complaining, nor am I a pessimist. I have always been conservative, and I have tried to look on the bright side of affairs. But there are many things just now that are not only perplexing but distressing and hard to understand. Ten years have passed since the great World War began. When that terrible storm swept the earth and peace came, we business men thought that great prosperity would follow. We looked for better conditions. But we do not see them. It seems to me that the situation is well summed up by the words of one of the world's great statesmen, who writes frequently for the public press and who at the con-
4
elusion of 1924 had this to say about world conditions:
"The deepest impression left on my mind by 1924 is of a world once more reconciled to black. The iridescent colors of a new hope flung on the sky by the Great War, after becoming year by year fainter and more mildewed with the unfavorable weather that followed peace, seem finally to have faded away altogether during this year and a dull grey hangs over the earth."
"..become strong and arrogant in the end of the world, where we now are; "
... 19
overdrawn. It is interesting, in view of the fact that God's prophet, 2500 years ago, foretold such a condition in these words: "Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation, and a great whirlwind [terrible war and trouble] shall be raised up from the coasts of the earth. And the slain of the Lord shall be at that day from one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; they shall not be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried; they shall be dung upon the ground." — Jeremiah 25: 32, 33.
God's prophet, long centuries ago, foretold that the profiteers and big business would become strong and arrogant in the end of the world, where we now are; and that this terrible trouble would come. Concerning the nations and the trouble upon them, he said: "Their soul is melted because of trouble. They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits' end. Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven." — Psalm 107: 26-30.
I know that it is difficult to understand how one can smile and be happy when he sees this terrible time rapidly approaching. I want to tell you why, however, that you also may smile.
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1926*
(from the book: Deliverance' published in the year 1926, Preface, page 255 )
DELIVERANCE
A vivid description of tho Divine Plan particularly outlining
God's progressive steps against evil and showing the
final overthrow of the Devil and all of his wicked
institutions; the deliverance of the peo-
ple; and the establishment of the
righteous government on
earth.
1,250,000 Edition
BY J. F. RUTHERFORD,
Author of
"The Harp of God"
"Comfort for the Jews"
"Millions Now Living Will Never Die"
"Comfort for the People"
etc., etc.
Publishers:
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A.
Also: London, Toronto, Melbourne, Stockholm, Cape Town, Berne,
Magdeburg, etc.
MADE IN U. S. A
AS A TESTIMONY TO THE NAME OF
THE ALMIGHTY GOD
The Creator of the Heavens and the Earth
THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED
"Ye are my witnesses that I am God."—Isaiah 43:12
Copyrighted 1926 by
J. F. RUTHERFORD
PREFACE
THIS book contains a message of good news. It enables the people to have before them the positive evidence from which they may determine who is their worst enemy and who is their greatest friend. It shows why the people have been subjected to so much affliction and suffering and how they may and will be delivered from all their foes.
The name of the three great beings herein made conspicuous are: Jehovah the Father, and the Logos and Lucifer his sons. The son Lucifer organizes and carries on a wicked rebellion which Jehovah does not hinder until his own due time, when he intervenes and puts down the rebellion and the rebels. By and through his loyal Son, the Logos, he completely delivers the people and then showers upon them his gracious blessings.
This book contains a statement of the outworking of the Divine Program. It establishes faith, creates hope, and makes glad the soul. In due time all the peoples of earth must have an opportunity to know the message this book contains. The time is now due when they must begin to hear it. Let every one who reads tell it to his neighbor. The day of deliverance is at hand!
THE PUBLISHERS
...
...
...
Chapter XII
The Final Battle
255
THE anointed servants of God, seeing that Satan the enemy has been expelled from heaven and has come down to earth, having great wrath against the Lord and his anointed; seeing that the enemy has now come in with a flood of error to turn the minds of the people away from God (Isaiah 59; 19); and seeing that the greatest crisis of the ages is just about to break upon the earth, are breathing the prayer long ago recorded by their prototype David, to wit: "Be thou exalted, 0 God, above the heavens; and thy glory above all the earth." (Psalm 108:5) Back from the courts of heaven comes the response of God through his holy prophet: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." — Psalm 46:10.
In the light of the present day fulfilment of divine prophecy these words of the Lord thrill the hearts of Christians, because they see that the time for the deliverance of the human race from the bondage of Satan the enemy is at hand.
....
1929*
[ from the book : Life( publ. year 1929) p.age 346]
LIFE
The
infallible proof from
the Word of the Creator
that he has provided the
way for man to enjoy ever-
lasting life upon earth, and
that the earth is to be
transformed into a
paradise.
By J. F. Rutherford
Author of
The Harp of God
Reconciliation
Government
Deliverance
Creation
Hell
and other books
1,570,500 Edition
Publishers
International Bible Students Association
Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A.
London, Toronto, Sydney, Cape Town, Berne, Magdeburg,
and in other countries
To
JEHOVAH GOD
The Gracious Giver of Life Everlasting This Book Is Dedicated
"The gift of God is eternal life,
through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Copyrighted 1929 by
J.F.Rutherford
Made in U.S.A.
7
FOREWORD
FOR centuries man has searched for the fountain of eternal youth that he might for ever enjoy health, peace, and endless happiness. That great secret has ever been with Jehovah God. His time has come to reveal it to man, and to open to the vision of all who desire to know, the way to everlasting life on earth. Jesus said: "This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." This proves that knowledge of the way of life is necessary. This book is written to enable men to obtain that priceless knowledge. The great secret treasure of the truth is in the Word of God, and the student must find it there. The pages that follow will enable the reader to locate it.
Job is an outstanding character of the Bible. The book bearing his name has long been a mystery, to be understood only in God's time. Herein the prophetic words of the Book of Job are placed alongside of the facts which are known to exist, and the student is thereby enabled to see the meaning of that book.
If mankind can be restored to perfection of body and mind, and live for ever on earth in prosperity, health, peace and happiness, then all the difficulties that beset the world will be solved. Such are the blessings that God is now
8
opening to man. Life by redemption and restitution is God's way, and therefore the only way, for man to live for ever. Every man must be brought to the knowledge of that fact. Parents owe it to themselves and to their children to obtain that knowledge. It is within the reach of all.
THE AUTHOR
9
PUBLISHER'S PREFACE
THIS book is not propaganda. It is no part of a propaganda scheme. Its pages contain facts of vital importance for the education of the people. The reader is not asked nor expected to join anything. He is not asked for nor expected to contribute money. The facts are laid before him to enable him to see God's way, and therefore the only way, for man to obtain life everlasting on the earth.
Jehovah God made this earth for man, and made man for the earth. He alone can and will give man everlasting life on earth. This book brings to the attention of the reader God's gracious provision for man. The proof set forth herein shows that God's due time has come for man to understand and know the way to life.
This is not a religious book. It tears the mask from hypocrisy, tradition and formalism, and sets before man the truth. When you read it you will be able to understand it, and you will be glad. With full confidence that it will lift great burdens from the oppressed and bring joy to the sad, it is sent forth.
THE PUBLISHER
346
The greatest farce ever promulgated in the name of the Lord is that now parading under the title of the Federation of Churches of Christ in America. Into this unholy arrangement all the renegades and false teachers are admitted and made welcome, and from such organization the truth is excluded.
….
) Satan and his organization are doomed to an early and complete failure. God's name shall be vindicated.
When Satan's organization, Egypt, became arrogant and oppressive of the people, the Lord God went down to Egypt and destroyed the power of that nation and delivered his people. It is written that he did so to make for himself a name. That foreshadowed God's purpose now to shortly dash to pieces the Devil's organization that controls all the nations of the earth,
...
000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
1930 *
(from the book: Light, II, by J.F. Rutherford, 1930 p. 327)
... LIGHT
CHAPTER XIV
Triumph
(DANIEL, CHAPTER 2)
"And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land; and they shall dwell safely in this wilderness, and sleep in the woods. And
327
I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season: there shall be showers of blessing." (Ezek. 34:25, 26) This further supports the conclusion that the terrible image represents Satan's entire organization, visible and invisible, and that everything that continues to exist shall be put under the control of Christ.
The great climax is at hand. The kings of earth now set themselves against God and against his anointed Stone. Arrogantly and in defiance of God the wicked rulers of the earth go on in their wrongful way. Jehovah now holds them in derision. His judgment against every part of Satan's organization, including the kings and nobles of earth, has been written, and that judgment is death, in which they shall all be bound by the chains and "fetters of iron". All the saints shall have a part in this honor, to the glory of God. (Ps. 149:5-9) The complete triumph of Jehovah over his enemies comes suddenly.
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1929*
[from the book : Prophecy (pub. year 1929) page 298
1931*
( From the book: 'Vindication' Vol. I, Preface and page 147, by J. F. Rutherford, publ. year 1931)
VINDICATION
BOOK 1
PREFACE
JEHOVAH caused to be written, more than 2500 years ago, what in the Bible is called Ezekiel's Prophecy. During the centuries that prophecy has been a mystery sealed to all who have sought to unlock it. God's due time has come for the prophecy to be understood. He has brought to pass events disclosing its meaning, and these events, well known to millions of people, placed beside the prophecy, make it plain.
The miniature fulfilment of the prophecy was upon Jerusalem and the nations there round about. Its greater and complete fulfilment is upon "Christendom" and the other nations now of the world. In this day of great distress and perplexity it opens to the vision of godly men the things that must speedily come to pass and guides the obedient into the right way.
Its testimony now due to be given is notice and solemn warning to "Christendom" and to all the world. It announces God's judgments already written against the "man of sin", against "Christendom", her rulers, and chief men, and against all who have defamed the name of the Most High. It makes known the great tribulation just ahead for the world, and how some may be shielded and protected and carried through that trouble and blessed.
6
Its message is that of comfort and encouragement to the faithful followers of Christ Jesus who are now on the earth. It tells when and how Jehovah God will prove, exonerate and vindicate his word and holy name, uplift and bless his obedient creation, and make the world a place of everlasting peace and joy. Every intelligent creature should know its contents. Read it and profit thereby.
THE PUBLISHER
... 146
turn to the Lord; and these are the ones who are to be taken through the time of trouble.
NO FURTHER DELAY
God's faithful people on the earth emphasized the importance of the dates 1914 and 1918 and 1925. They had much to say about these dates and what would come to pass, but all they predicted did not come to pass. The predictions as to the dates were correct, but what came to pass could not be fully seen in advance. The failure to come to pass of some of the things predicted has afforded Satan's agents in Christendom, particularly the clergy and the "man of sin", an opportunity to ridicule and reproach the faithful servants of the Lord and to say of and concerning them and their predictions: 'All their visions and predictions have failed; and such proves that they are all wrong, and that all their predictions for the future must fail.' This the clergy use to turn the people away from God and his truth. Such was foreshadowed by what God said to Ezekiel: "Son of man, what is that proverb
...
God's kingdom has begun to operate. His day of vengeance is here, and Armageddon is at hand and certain to fall upon Christendom, and that within an early date. God's judgment is upon Christendom and must shortly be executed. That God will not longer delay this he says: "Therefore say
148
unto them, Thus saith the Lord God, There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord God." — 12:28.
The time is here when God's people must make it plain to all that the nations are marching to Armageddon and that the only hope of the people is the kingdom of God. It is a great privilege to be permitted to make this announcement. It is the truth; and the truth will bring hope and courage to the people.
...
The numerous women's clubs have become a part of the political and religious organizations of Christendom. These female prophets make a display of human foresight and prudence. They wield a powerful influence over the men. Politicians and political clergymen among men no longer dare to speak in plain terms of women's proper place in the church or in the home, for fear of losing political influence and support.
The women make monkeys or dupes of men. The men have become effeminate, soft and easily influenced, and have lost their real manhood and sturdiness in the affairs of state and home. For instance, when men are sitting at a table and a woman approaches, all the men arise and pay her homage and thereby elevate her to a place above men. The men remove their hats upon entering an elevator, if a woman is present; and these things are said to be acts of respect and to show that a man is a gentleman. But it is subtle, and the real meaning is much different from
157
that. It is a scheme of Satan to turn men away from God and from his announced rule of the proper position of man and woman. The Lord has declared that no effeminate man shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. (1 Cor. 6:9) This proves that the scheme or habit of paying homage to women is not of God, but from the great enemy of God. It is a veneer of being a proper thing, and therefore it is more subtle than otherwise.
...
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1934*
[from the book : " His Vengeance" by J.F. Rutherford (pub. year 1934)
His
Vengeance
explained in
Seven Bible Treatises
by
J. F. RUTHERFORD
The day to declare the vengeance of Jehovah God is here! His vengeance has up until now never been rightly understood or preached.
Seeing that Jehovah is soon to express his vengeance against the wicked in vindication of his name, it has seemed good to set forth the subject clearly herein, for the good of people of good will.
COPYRIGHTED 1934
AND PUBLISHED BY
WATCH TOWER
BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY
International Bible Students Association
Brooklyn, New York, U. S. A.
Made in the United States of America
HIS VENGEANCE
Jehovah's Vengeance
IT IS WRITTEN in the Scriptures that Jehovah says concerning his enemies (Deuteronomy 32: 35): "To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time." The word vengeance is generally understood to mean passionate ill will and unrestrained punishment inflicted by one upon another.
...page 54
It will be a happy day for the peoples of the earth when Satan and all of his agencies are destroyed. Then the people will without hindrance learn of the goodness of God and of the numerous blessings he has in reservation for those who obey his righteous law. God made the earth for man to live on in peace and happiness. Satan the enemy has filled the earth with violence and has made it such a terrible place. God's kingdom, which is now just at the door, will lift the burdens from the people, and the light of his goodness will shine upon them and all shall know that he is the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort and the Giver of life and all attending blessings.
...page 59
Jehovah God stopped or cut short that war, and thus he shortened the time of trouble and, in the language of the Scriptures, he did this for the elect's sake, as Jesus foretold. The Devil would have succeeded in destroying the human race but it was not Jehovah's time to let the Devil come to his final end.
62
and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle." — Am. Rev. Ver.
Thus we see that Satan began the time of trouble for the express purpose of destroying the human race and of preventing many from knowing that Jehovah is God. Jehovah had nothing to do with bringing about the time of trouble; but for his elect's sake, that he might send forth the elect witness to give testimony concerning his purposes, Jehovah cut short the World War or time of trouble, and then began the witness work that has since progressed. The time of trouble is not over, by any means. Jehovah will take a hand in it in due time, and then he will cut it short in righteousness.
1935*
((From the booklet: 'Universal War Near' , 1935, pages 3, 26-27)
"...the scriptural evidence and the physical facts strongly indicate that such witness work is now almost done; and when it is done the universal war will begin. Universal war is absolutely certain to come and that soon, and no power can stop it. ...during the few remaining months until the breaking of that universal cataclysm the powers that rule the nations of the earth will continue to make treaties and tell the people that by such means they will keep that world peace and bring about prosperity. "
1937*
From the book: ARMAGEDDON, the greatest battle of all time ( publ. year 1937)
introduction, and pages 3,4, 34, 40, 44]
IT IS IN VAIN NOW for the pope of the Roman Catholic Hierarchy to pray God or to warn the nations of "Christendom" that Armageddon may be averted. Why must it surely come, soon, and whose battle will it be, and what the outcome? Also, those who hear the Kingdom message now, and who fail to obey it, will they die at Armageddon and remain dead for ever, or will they have an awakening out of death? How may you survive? In this booklet Judge Rutherford presents the inspired prophetic Scriptures side by side with the well-known historical facts in proof of the answers herein given.
THE PUBLISHER
COPYRIGHTED 1937
AND PUBLISHED BY
WATCH TOWER
BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY
International Bible Students Association
Brooklyn, N. Y., U. S. A.
Made in the United States of America
BRANCH OFFICES: London, Buenos Aires, Paris, Toronto, Strathfield, Cape Town, Berne, Copenhagen, Shanghai, and other cities.
ARMAGEDDON
Judge J. F. Rutherford's speech to the public and broadcast over WBBR Sunday October 18, 1936
IT WILL BE CONCEDED by all persons that the peoples of the nations of the earth have suffered much during the past twenty years. The people are in perplexity. The rulers likewise are in perplexity and in distress. The peril that is just ahead, however, will bring upon the peoples of the earth far greater suffering. The people prefer to hear good news rather than bad. Then some may ask, Why use the subject, such as this afternoon's, to tell the people about the greatest trouble that shall ever come upon the earth? I answer, by way of illustration, that when the country is threatened with a great storm or tidal wave, the government officials warn the people, and that properly so, even though it is very bad news. With stronger reasoning should the people be warned of the approaching world disaster. It is the command of Jehovah God that the people must be warned in order that they may intelligently seek the only place of safety if they so desire. It is voluntary with everyone. What is here said concerning the peril that is approaching is not the expression of man's imagination. It is based solely upon the Word of God. Christ, in speak-
4
ing of this approaching peril, uses these words: 'Then there shall be tribulation such as the world has never known, and no, never will there be another.' That should be sufficient reason for every thoughtful person, and particularly every professed Christian, to give careful consideration to the proof relating to the tribulation that is impending and about to fall.
That great affliction that is coming upon the world is designated in the Bible as 'Armageddon, the greatest battle of all time'. The battle will not be fought between contending factions or contending nations, but will involve the whole world. On one side in that battle array will be all the wicked angels, unseen by men, and all the wicked people on the earth in all the world, under the seductive influence and command of Satan the Devil. The purpose of that side of the war is to destroy the human race. This is one of the best evidences that the Devil is man's worst enemy
...
The Bible, at Revelation 12:12, says that these woes come from the Devil; because the words of the great Prophet, Christ Jesus, are these: 'Woe to the inhabiters of the earth, and to the people; for the Devil is come down unto you, knowing that he hath but short time.' A short time for what? A short
34
time to prepare for the great battle of God Almighty, the battle of Armageddon, which is just ahead.
...
40
be given; and these witnesses will continue to give the truth to the people, regardless of what it may cost. When this witness work is done, then, declares the Lord, there shall come upon the world the greatest tribulation ever known, and that tribulation is designated "Armageddon".
RESULT
What will be the result of Armageddon? That will be an act of Jehovah God, which act will destroy wickedness in all the world. The great deluge or flood that came upon the world in Noah's day was an example of Armageddon, and foretold the results. In the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew the Lord Jesus declares that as it was in Noah's day, so shall it be at the end of the world, where we now are. The deluge destroyed the wicked, and only righteous Noah and his family were saved. That foretells the result of Armageddon.
...
44
assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine indignation, even all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy," — Zephaniah 3: 8.
These striking examples set forth in God's Word are for the purpose of warning the people as to what they may expect in the very near future; and, as it is said in England, "you have been warned." Therefore those who have received the warning must choose which side they will take. Whom will you serve, Jehovah or the religionists, who represent Satan the Devil?
...
1938*
(from : The Watchtower, Nov. 1, 1938, page 324)
"...mark the words of Jesus, which definitely seem to discourage the bearing of children immediately before or during Armageddon....It would therefore appear that there is no reasonable or scriptural injunction to bring children into the world immediately before Armageddon, where we now are."
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1939 *
[from the book: Salvation (pub. year 1939) page 310]
The King, Christ Jesus, is the ruler, and the earthly representatives of that great Ruler are called the "princes", who shall represent the kingdom on the earth; and concerning which it is written: "Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment." (Isaiah 32:1) Furthermore, says the Scripture:
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"For out of Zion [God's capital organization, of which Christ Jesus is Head] shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem." (Isaiah 2:3) As Samuel the prophet, under the typical kingdom, went about among the people delivering to them the commands of Jehovah, so under the reign of Christ the faithful men of old, the princes in the earth, shall go among the people directing them according to the commands of the Lord. That is the theocratic government in operation.
COMING SOON
The abundance of Scriptural evidence, together with the physical facts that have come to pass showing the fulfillment of prophecy, conclusively proves that the time for the battle of the great day of God Almighty is very near and that in that battle all of God's enemies shall be destroyed and the earth cleared of wickedness, preparatory to the complete establishment of righteousness. The affairs of the earth then will be under the complete control of Christ Jesus; and the faithful men of old above mentioned, resurrected as perfect creatures, will act as the representatives on earth of the theocratic government. The evidence also abundantly shows that those faithful men will be back on the earth at the beginning of Armageddon. From the Scriptures it appears to be absolutely certain that some of the remnant will be on the earth when those faithful men appear, and certainly those who compose the great multitude will also be on the earth, and all of these will meet and greet earth's princes.
311
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1939*
[from the book: Salvation (pub. year 1939) page 361]
The inhabiters of "Gog and Magog" (20: 8), and the Devil himself, shall be destroyed, and the memory of such wicked shall cease for ever. — 20:10,14.
361
DESTINY
What was the fate of that train and its load of passengers rushing upon the burning bridge? Were any of them saved? Impossible for them to escape! Those who left the train at the next preceding station stop did escape and were saved. Likewise today, all the nations and peoples of earth are face to face with the greatest emergency. They are being warned as God commands, that the disaster of Armageddon is just ahead. But only a small number, comparatively speaking, give heed to that warning, and those who do give heed thereto are leaving the organization of the world, controlled by Satan, and are seeking refuge under God's kingdom. Such persons as continue faithful henceforth will escape Armageddon, find protection from it, and be saved.
Armageddon having ended, the righteous rule shall prevail everywhere in the earth, and gradually the earth will be brought to a condition of Edenic paradise, because such is the promise of Almighty God, who made the earth to be inhabited by righteous men. Gradually the earth will be filled with righteous people who will be a vindication of the name and the word of Jehovah, the Most High.
Having been warned, each one thus warned must now choose the course he will take, whether the way to eternal destruction, or the way to everlasting salvation provided for obedient men by Jehovah, the Almighty God, through Jesus Christ, the beloved Son of
the "KING OF ETERNITY".
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1939 *
[from the book: " Government and Peace ( pub. year 1939) page 61]
THE SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE from a foreign power still lives! A few men, imbued with liberty, honesty, plain speech, and genuine public interest, still have the courage to stand forth and display that spirit which has kept democratic countries, until recently, free.
Any who on June 25, 1939, heard directly at the world convention or by wire or radio the speech "Government and Peace" will, to be honest with himself, have to admit Judge Rutherford is, in deed and utterance, a type sorely needed in this time of peril.
Your true friend speaks frankly, without hypocrisy. In your interest he warns of lurking danger and boldly points out the stealthy enemy and their methods and activities which would deprive you at last of life, liberty, property and happiness. Judge Rutherford proves himself such a friend to you. With benefit you will prove it by reading his speech herewith presented. More than 75 stations radiocast it from New York city. By beam and telephone line connections with New York simultaneous conventions in more than 30 cities in Great Britain, Canada, Hawaii, Australia, India and America heard it together.
THE PUBLISHER
FIRST PRINTING
10,000,000 copies
COPYRIGHT, 1939
AND PUBLISHED BY
WATCHTOWER
BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY, INC.
International Bible Students Association
Brooklyn, N. Y., U. S. A.
BRANCH OFFICES:
London, Buenos Aires, Paris, Toronto, Strathfield,
Cape Town, Berne, Shanghai, and other cities.
Made in the United States of America
Government and Peace
PERSONS OF GOOD WILL toward the Creator desire to live under a government of peace, righteously administered for the common good. There cannot be lasting peace without a just and righteous government. There can be no just and righteous government without peace. Imperfect men have failed to erect such a government.
61
or leader. Christ is our King, and our allegiance is to his kingdom. We refuse to bow down to man or attribute protection and salvation to any earthly power or creature. Our protection and salvation are of God through Christ Jesus.
SIXTH. At God's command we declare his message, which is set forth in the Bible and, in substance, is this: That the day of final settlement of the rulership of the universe is here and that the issue will be settled at Armageddon, which is near; that all nations of the earth are rapidly assembling for that conflict, and for that reason they are now against Jehovah God and against his witnesses; that the battle of Armageddon will result in the destruction of Satan, his organization, and all his supporters and adherents; and that Christ and his kingdom will there be entirely victorious to the glory of Jehovah God."
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1940*
Armageddon is very near.( From the : Informant, April, 1940, page 1)
"The year 1940 is certain to be the most important year yet because Armageddon is very near. It behooves all who love righteousness to put forth every effort to advertise The Theocracy while the privileges are still open." (Informant, April, 1940, page 1)
1940*
... Armageddon is just ahead.
(From: The Messenger, Sept. 1940, page 6)
"The Kingdom is here, the King is enthroned. Armageddon is just ahead. The glorious reign of Christ that shall bring blessings to the world will immediately follow. Therefore the great climax has been reached. Tribulation has fallen upon those who stand by the Lord. "
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
1941 '
'The Watchtower' Sept.15,1941
' The Watchtower, September 15th ,1941
'Receiving the gift [the book Children], the marching children clasped it to them, not a toy or plaything for idle pleasure, but the Lord's provided instrument for most effective work in the remaining months before Armageddon.'"
1942*
(From : The Watchtower, April 1, 1942, page139)
"Now, with Armageddon immediately before us, it is a matter of life or destruction. Those who would be of the Lord's other sheep that shall compose the great multitude of Armageddon survivors and live joyfully ...
*******
1946*
(from the book: 'Let God Be True' , publ. 1946, page 194)
"....the disaster of Armageddon, greater than that which befell Sodom and Gomorrah, is at the door."
1950*
*** w50 10/1 p. 366
It Is Nearer than They Think ***
Now is no time for one to be captivated by this world’s glitter or be fooled by its "all is well" gush of propaganda. Now is no time to scramble for all that one can seize of this world’s possessions for protection. Neither is it a time to postpone Armageddon in one’s mind. (1 Thess. 5:2-4) Now, as never before, is the time to bestir oneself and take life-saving action while there is yet time. "Now it is high time to awake!" the apostle Paul says. (Rom. 13:11) Destruction of modern Babylon will clear the ground for the extension of God’s blessed Theocratic rule to the limits of the earth. Praise be to God that such momentous events are nearer than most people think!
*w 1950 1/15 22 Who Will Share in the Final Witness? ***
MEN say that history repeats itself. The history of past divine warnings and executed judgments will, for God's Word says that "it all happened to them by way of warning for others, and it was written down for the purpose of instructing us whose lot has been cast in the closing hours of the world". (1 Cor. 10:11, Moffatt)
*** w50 3/1 p. 73 par. 15 Uniting Our Praises Universally ***
15 What was true in the days of the apostles is more true at this time as we see the day of Armageddon’s trouble fast approaching. No one today who wants to serve God acceptably can afford to ignore the injunction at Hebrews 10:25 (An Amer. Trans.): “Let us not neglect meeting together as some do, but let us encourage one another, all the more as you can see that the great Day is coming nearer.”
**w 1950 8/1 p. 227 Serving with the Servant ***
Such Kingdom interests must be guarded, watched and increased amid the turbulence of this world's closing years. Nor would any human or demon attraction or the confused events occurring in these fateful days succeed in diverting the faithful stewards from their service.
1951 *
*** w51 8/1 463-4 "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land" ***
He also assured us, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” He said, too, that God’s Word in the Holy Bible is the truth. (John 17:17) So now in this short period before Armageddon listen to the Jubilee proclamation, learn the truth, and then act upon it without further delay, that you may gain your freedom. Then, as free men and women, join your forces world-wide to “proclaim liberty throughout all the land to all the inhabitants thereof”. By that course you may live through Armageddon and never die! "
*** w51 9/1 p. 528 par. 1 Will the Stones Have to Cry Out? ***
No actions the enemy, Satan, and his organization can take could have the slightest possibility of success against the force that Jehovah sends out. Whether the enemy chooses to attack or run and hide, nothing will prevent Jehovah’s Executioner, Christ Jesus, from blotting them out. (Amos 9:1-4) Today their end is very near.
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Greetings,
J.C. MacHislopp
P.S. In my research (word) I've higlighted the key words and given different font , in this
Notepad version I do not see anything. Still the points are there.
