The Practice of Magic

In conversation with a friend yesterday who shares with me, the love of Jesus and his words (John 1:1,14; 14:6), she expressed interest in what scripture means when it speaks of sorcery and witchcraft.  My response to my friend's interest is below, and as always, anyone who visits this blog is directed to read all the scriptures referenced because it is Jesus who gives us the meaning of what he is saying (John 1:1,14; Rev.19:13). Scriptures will pop up for readability when on a mobile device if lightly touched, or if on a laptop, hovered over by cursor.

When we consider Jesus’ words, we reflect on how he taught throughout all scripture…through parables that contain analogies, similes, illustrations, and figurative discourses, which help us to understand spiritual things (John 1:1,14; Rev.19:13; Matt.13:3,10,34-35; 22:1; Mark 4:33; John 10:6; 16:25; Mark 4:13; Psalm 78:2-3; Ezek.17:2; 24:3).  Jesus explained to his disciples why he used parables and told them the meaning of the parables, which helped them to reason in their mind and heart the nature of his kingdom and to recognize that not all would “see,” perceive, because not all who proclaimed to believe, truly believed him and had a real love for truth (Mark 4:34,10-12; Matt.13:34,10-13; 16:5-12; Mark 2:6-8; 4:11; Luke 8:10; Rom.10:2-3; John 14:6; 8:31-32; 4:23-24; 5:39-40; 2 Thess.2:9-12).  Jesus’ disciples listened to him, but they also needed to belief and have faith in him, to rely upon him, his promise of Holy Spirit to teach them in his absence so that they may bear much fruit and be a light to others (John 14:1-3,15-28; 14:26; 16:13; 6:63; 14:6; Luke 12:12; Rom.8:9; Neh.9:20; John 2:22; 12:16; 1 John 5:10,13; Matt.14:25-31; Heb.11:6; John 15:1-4,8; Prov.12:14; John 8:12; Matt.5:14-16). 

We were warned that there will be false prophets and false teachers among us, so we are unsurprised that there will be those who are in positions of teaching and that appear and sound sheep-like, but who are not speaking for God (Matt.7:15; 24:11; 2 Pet.2:1; 1 John 4:1). Those who speak lies about God and his son speak not by Spirit but from their own imagination, conjuring charms, seductive words as magic stunts to create an illusion of special spiritual power, knowledge, and insight (2 Pet.2:1; Nahum 3:4; Rev.17:3-5,15; Prov.31:30; Mark 7:6; Isa.29:13; 47:10-13; Psalm 57:4; 58:3-6; Luke 6:45; Matt.13:15; Rom.1:21-25; 1 Cor.10:19; John 6:35,51; 7:37).  They do not rely on Spirit, but divine lies purported as true they mix religious “magical potions” that when ingested “drug” people’s minds putting them under a “spell,” a captivity of mind and heart (John 14:6; 1 John 5:6; 1 Tim.4:1; 2 Tim.4:3-4; Ezek.13:9-10; 2 Cor.11:13-14; Deut.11:16,18; Prov.4:23; Gal.3:1-3; 5:17; Heb.3:10-12).  When lies are craftily mixed to appear as light from Jesus, this is sorcery, but this sorcery is cut off, demolished by the sword of the Spirit, God’s word (Isa.5:20; Ezek.13:9-10; Psalm 34:12-13; Prov.12:22; Deut.18:9-14; Isa.47:1,12-14; Jer.23:29; Micah 5:10-15; Rev.18:21,23; 2 Thess.2:8; Psalm 29:7; Rev.2:16; Eph.6:17; 2 Cor.10:3-5; Rev.22:12-15).  Both “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Prov.18:21) – What we hear and allow to penetrate our mind and heart, and what we speak that comes from within our heart can be as lethal as drawn swords (2 Cor.10:3-5; Prov.18:21,6-7; 11:9; 12:13-14; 55:20-21; 57:4; Psalm 140:3; John 6:63; 8:44; Psalm 5:6; 52:2-5; Prov.19:9).   

Who do anointed revere? - a public response to two comments under a blog post

I received two comments of similar nature by two different individuals under one of my blog posts.  Neither comment/gripe included authors’ names nor provided references to any scriptures in support of what was asserted.  Additionally, while the two commenters did not profess to be or not to be anointed, I feel that they both were anointed and due to the similar nature of their content, that they knew each other (if I am incorrect, they may clarify by commenting on this blog).  This being said, the following subject matter will address in their comments what is pertinent.  I will not address at length the gripe made to me about an anointed partner of mine - the complaint being that she has chosen an inoffensive nickname for herself rather than being called by her given first name. I will simply say that while I do not have a nickname, I know of many people who have a nickname, and that it is neither here nor there as nicknames do not violate scripture.  

What I will respond to of the two comments made is the assertion that I am “revering” an anointed partner of mine.  That purport was made without any familiarity with me or ability to distinguish between spirits, for at the least, if reading any of my blogs one quickly can discern that the writings contained within direct all readers to the only means of salvation: Faith in Jesus (1 Cor.12:4,10; John 14:6; 3:16-18; 15:1,7,9; Acts 4:12; 16:30,31; Rom.10:9,10; Heb.7:24,25; 1 John 5:13).  My blogs are written with the help of Holy Spirit that guides me through scripture, opening understanding of Jesus’ words, truth, for without Spirit that would be impossible (John 14:6,26; 8:31; 1 John 2:20,21,27; 2 John 2:2; Rom.8:28). Who are anointed to revere?  We revere our Father, and Jesus our head who we must remain attached and listen to (Heb.12:28; Psalm 89:7; 111:10; 147:11; John 14:6; 1 Cor.11:3; Col.1:18; Eph.1:21; John 15:4; 1 Cor.12:14-20,27).

The content of the two similar comments made under my blog post brings great sadness that those of the “body of Christ” are disgruntled with each other.  Are we not all to be “one” under our head Jesus, building the “body,” living in peace being guided and taught by Holy Spirit, considering each other with love? (1 Cor.12:12-31; Eph.5:23; 2 Cor.13:11-14; Rom.12:1-10,16; 15:6; 1 Pet.3:8; 2:5; Phil.2:1-5; 1 Cor.6:15-17,19,20; 1:10).  The anointed partners I am in unity with have been working hard before me, and I am in agreement with them as the Spirit has shown me the same truths they have discerned and thus, readers will see similarities in my writings to theirs (2 Pet. 1:20,21; 1 Cor.2:14). So, to the two commenters of my blog and the reason for this post:  Please, do not be running to people to gossip or complain about others…if we have an issue with another, what are we to do?  We are to go to that person and always with scriptures, bearing with one another in love and spurring one another toward love (Lev.19:16; 1 John 2:9,11; 3:15; 1 Cor.4:6; Heb.4:12; James 3:17; Rom.12:10,17; Matt.18:15,35; 5:22-24; James 13:34; Eph.4:2; Heb.10:24).  This we must heed for each of us answers for ourselves, there is no favoritism with God…and do not forget that we will also answer for how we treat each other (2 Chron.19:7; Matt.5:22-24; 7:1,2,12; Rom.2:1-3,11; Gal.5:14; Acts 10:34).  I pray the two commenters find peace (John 13:34,35; Eph.1:17-23; 2 Cor.13:11).

Rachel

Armageddon - What type of warfare?

After reading below, you may find of interest, This email from a JW in response to this letter and this email response by a JW elder.

 

Dear friends, 

Are spiritual teachings that flip-flop and eventually expire indicative of teachings of Spirit (1 Cor.2:1-21-22; 1 John 2:20,27)?  Teachings of Spirit do not flip-flop or expire but rather, faithful anointed build on the foundation of the apostles and prophets…holy, blameless, speaking in truth, grows into a holy temple until complete with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone (1 Pet.2:4-5,9; Mal.2:7; Eph. 1:3-4; 2:20-22; 4:25,11-16).  Using scripture and reading all the scriptures referenced, you will be able to distinguish who is speaking words of Spirit and instructing in the knowledge of God, and who is teaching according to mere human thinking/wisdom (Deut.18:20-22; John 4:24; 6:63; 1 Cor.2:4-5,10-14; Matt.15:7-9; 1 Thess.5:20-21). 

One of the first things I was taught by my JW mother was that God is going to physically annihilate all who do not recognize His right to rule.  It is our duty, individually, to test everything so that we are not fooled by Satan’s ministers who transform themselves into ministers of righteousness (1 Thess.5:21; 2 Cor.11:4,14-15).  What type of battle is Armageddon, and when you discern the spiritual meaning, so you will perceive we are in Armageddon, now.  

Examine Revelation 19.  We're shown that from Jesus’ “mouth proceeds a sharp sword” (Rev.19:15) and “His name is The Word of God” (Rev.19:13).  “The sword of the Spirit is the word of God” (Rev.19:13; Eph.6:17; John 1:1,14).  Is this a literal sword, or symbolic of Jesus physically killing people?  No.  Jesus is aptly named “the Word of God” because he is the exact representation of the Father (John 12:44-45; 14:9; Heb.1:1-4; 2 Cor.4:4).  Everything Jesus taught was from the Father (John 12:49; 17:8; 5:30; 14:10,31; 8:26).  Jesus is “The Faithful and True Witness,” he is “the way, the truth, and the life,” “no deceit was found in his mouth” (Rev.3:14; 19:11; John 14:6; 17:17; 1 John 1:19; 5:20; 1 Pet.2:21,22).  Faithful anointed are to accurately handle the "sword of the Spirit," the word of God in order to "wrestle"/oppose/fight spiritual forces of evil using truth (2 Tim.4:15; Eph.6:10-17; Psalm 28:3; Acts 26:17-18; Heb.4:12; Rev.19:15; 12:11; Prov.12:18; Psalm 55:21; 64:2-4; Psalm 57:4 ).  Spirit-anointed must remain attached to Jesus, their head over the “body of Christ,” all Spirit-anointed persons (1 Cor.12:12-31; Eph.4:4-6,11-13,16; 5:23; Col.1:3,15-18; 2:18-19; John 15:1-10).  But, needing to remain attached to Jesus and actually remaining attached to Jesus are two different things.  Scripture plainly states that a falling away/apostasy comes before the Lord's day...in latter times, some will be influenced by the hypocrisy of liars and abandon the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons (2 Thess.2:1-3; 1 Tim.4:1-2; 2 Pet.2:1; Matt.24:5,24; 7:15; 2 Cor.11:13-15,3-4; Rom.16:18; John 8:12; 3:19-20).   

How foolish and dangerous to become drowsy and not test all things claimed to be true. Why? Because deceitful words can sound pleasant, sound smoother than butter and softer than oil, but are as dangerous and lethal as drawn swords (Psalm 55:20,21,23; Rom.16:17,18; Matt.15:8,9).  Yes, words that reach the heart of listeners bring powerful consequences to both the speaker and hearer (Jer.9:7-9; Psalm 64:2-4; 52:1-7; Prov.19:9; Matt.7:24-27; John 5:24).  Notice the impeccable imagery scriptures uses to describe words coming forth from lying mouths. These “sharpen their tongues like swords” and “bend their tongues like bows,” “bend their bows to shoot their arrows – bitter words” – lies and deceit (Jer.9:3,5,7-9; Psalm 11:2; 64:2-4; 52:1-4). Jesus’ disciples discerned that the weapons and armor needed were spiritual, “not against flesh and blood,” but against the schemes of the devil of fiery arrows of the wicked one (Eph.6:11-19). The shield of faith in Jesus quenches the fiery arrows of the wicked one …lying words not from political institutions but from God's own people, false prophets, leaders who cause all who listen to them to be deceived, err, and sin against God (2 Pet.2:1; Matt.24:24; Isa.9:13-16,18; 5:24; Deut.28:13-15,43-44; Prov.22:7; Rev.9:7-11,17,19; Ezek.23:1-4,5-7; Jer.51:13-14; Rev.17:1).  Lying words about God is "wickedness that burns as the fire" (Isa.9:18).  

What type of divine battle will annihilate wickedness that burns as the fire (Isa.9:18)?   Literal fire?  No. God emphatically declares, “Is not My WORD like fire”? (Jer.23:29a; Eph.6:17; Rev.19:13; John 1:1,14; Heb.12:29; Deut.4:24; Exod.24:17; Jer.2:11).  God makes the mouths of His people whom He has chosen, to be like a sharp sword, and this they do when accurately handling “the sword of the Spirit…the word of God.  Like polished arrows, they do not miss the mark when aiming at and demolishing lies and all arguments that sets itself up against the knowledge of God (Isa.9:18; Eph.6:16,17; Psalm 68:2; 2 Cor.10:3-6; Isa.49:2,3,5-8; Rom.13:4; Matt.10:34-36; John 1:1,14; 2 Tim.2:15; John 1:1; 2 Tim.3:16; 2 Cor.2:14-17; 10:5).  God’s faithful chosen ones battle using their mouth, fighting truth against lies, but lies spoken by whom?  The blasphemous lies coming out of the mouth of three impure spirits, spirits of demons:  the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet, that lead “the kings of the earth” to “battle on the great day of God the Almighty” (Rev.16:13,14,16; 13:5).  The kings of the earth scripture is speaking about is not referring to leaders of political governments, it is talking about Spirit-anointed persons who are kings and priests, and are made “into a kingdom and priests” (1 Pet.2:5,9; Rev.5:10; 11:6; Rom.8:17; 9:8; Gal.4:7; 3:29; Rev.5:10; 1:6; Exod.19:6; Dan.7:18). 

Can you discern from scripture that you have been deceived and lied to about Armageddon?Armageddon is NOT a day God physically annihilates billions of people whose dead bodies will lay in piles as “burnt hotdogs.” Armageddon is a spiritual warfare that is occurring now between God’s chosen faithful anointed who use the sword of the Spirit to fight the blasphemous lies spoken by unfaithful anointed and their companions who speak lies sourced from Satan (1 John 4:1; Mark 13:22; Matt.24:3-4,11; 7:15; Deut.18:19-22; Jer.23:16-17,21,26; Ezek.13:8-9; John 8:44; Rev.2:16; 16:13; 13:5; 16:14; 17:12-14; 16:16; 12:7; Jer.23:29). 

God’s Spirit-anointed priests are divinely assigned “the work of the priesthood as a gift,” to offer in perpetuity; this work is their daily sacrifices, “the constant feature” (Num.18:7,6; Heb.13:15; Jer.33:18; Dan.12:11). No one may take this honor upon themselves whether “gifted” by an anointed person or simply because they desire it for themselves, they must be called by God (Heb.5:4,5; Exod.28:1,43; 1 Chron.23:13; John 15:16; 2 Pet.1:10; Eph.4:4). You are unaware, but must understand that we have been in the great tribulation for some time now. When Jesus said, “Let the reader use discernment,” he was speaking of using spiritual discernment (Matt.24:15). The great tribulation was not going to be discerned by outward signs because it is an occurrence and condition, a trampling of God’s Holy Temple, His holy nation…His spiritual priesthood of Spirit-anointed persons (Luke 17:20; 21:24; Mark 13:14; 1 Pet.2:5,9; Dan.9:27; 12:11; 11:31; Exod.27:21; 28:43). What is the great tribulation of God’s temple? First, God’s temple is not represented by a physical idol religious organization (Acts 7:24; 17:24; 2 Cor.6:16; Isa.66:1,2). The spiritual priesthood is tribulated by the man of lawlessness, not-anointed men, who are not Spirit-anointed priests, but who act as if they are and “stand” in God’s temple, trampling the anointed by taking away, stealing, the daily sacrifice spiritual priests are to perform as instruments of righteousness (2 Thess.2:4; Matt.24:15; Mark 13:14; Dan.8:11; 9:27; Rom.6:13,16; Heb.13:15). Did you think God would forever remain silent over this rebellion and trampling of his spiritual Temple? (2 Thess.2:3,4; Ezek.8:12; Psalm 37:7,9; 2 Pet.2:1-3; 1 Sam.15:23).  No. God has always warned His people of their wickedness, waywardness and need to repent by sending prophets (2 Chron.36:15,16; Hos.6:5; Matt.23:33-35). Jesus said explicitly that the Kingdom of God does not come with observable signs, but that this wicked and adulterous generation will receive only the “sign of the prophet Jonah” (Matt.12:38,39; Mark 8:12; Luke 11:49; 17:20,21; Jonah 2:8; 3:1-4).

The case presented. Unfaithful anointed have fallen away and apostatized from Jesus by promoting a religious idol organization claimed to represent God, allying themselves with not-anointed persons, “the man of lawlessness,” whom they permit to perform the priestly duties assigned anointed, destroying God’s temple (2 Thess.2:3,4,9; Acts.17:24; 2 Cor.6:16; 1 Pet.2:5,9; 1 Cor.3:16,17; Ezek.44:6-9). God has shown compassion on His House, His dwelling place and by grace, a remnant has awakened from their spiritual sleep, spiritual death, and repented, placing faith completely in Jesus who has granted them spiritual “sight” (1 Pet.2:5,9; Heb.3:6; Ezek.12:2; Psalm 102:13; Luke 4:14-19; Isa.10:21-23; Matt.24:22; Rom.9:27,28; 11:5-10; Rom.13:11; Acts 26:18; Eph.2:1,2). The abomination of desolation, not-anointed men positioned as spirit-anointed priests are standing where it ought not, in God’s spiritual temple… the charge is made that the unfaithful anointed have willfully participated in and permitted this desecration and trampling of the spiritual temple, a prophetic event foretold, and revealed by Holy Spirit which the unfaithful reject as a lie (Matt.24:15; Luke 21:24; 2 Thess.2:4; Dan.11:31; 9:26,27; Rev.13:4,6-8; Luke 12:10; Matt.12:31; 2 Thess.2:10). The remnant is in unity with the scriptural evidence shown by Spirit, have witnessed this outrageous abomination desolating God’s spiritual temple, and make public this testimony of Jesus (Matt.24:15; 2 Thess.2:3,4,9,8; Job 32:8; 2 Pet.1:21; Rev.11:3). God will establish justice and render judgment through his son, Jesus, based on the evidence presented before Him at the unified testimony of two or three witnesses, according to His divine will (Deut.17:6; 19:15; 1 Tim.5:19; 2 Cor.13:1; Rev.11:3; Acts 10:36,40-43; Prov.37:27-29; 89:14; Dan.7:18,22; Matt.6:9,10; Luke 18:7). 

Think.  What does Satan most desire?  To be worshipped. To maintain his rule. How can he prolong his rule?  By deceiving the elect into apostasy and into worshiping him. If deception was obvious then it would be easy to spot and be very difficult to be fooled.  Satan is successfully deceiving many through those with similar evil desires as his and who have exchanged the truth for the lie.  The lie that God's "earthly organization" is represented by a physical religious empire organization and that one must be a member to obtain salvation (John 6:63; Luke 22:3,47.48; Col.3:5; 1 Pet.4:3; 2:5; Exod.32:8,9,33; 1 Cor.3:9; Jer.16:10-12; 7:28,30,27; 1 Sam.15:23; Acts 4:10-12; 7:48-50; 17:24).  These are Satan's lies, which are perpetuated by many, from the leaders of the Watchtower organization who speak delusions of their own mind, to individuals who share in promoting Watchtower's false testimony, preaching this lie worldwide, and equating "leaving Watchtower" to "leaving Jehovah" (1 Tim.4:1-2; Jer.23:25-26; 14:14). Can you understand?  From the heart the mouth speaks and so unfaithful spirit-anointed priests that lie and blaspheme God and all those who believe and endorse the lie, speak for and accomplish Satan's will, deceiving others into believing the lie (Matt.12:34-37; 15:18; John 8:44; 1 Tim.4:1-2; Rom.3:13; Rom.1:25). How masterfully duplicitous to deceive God's people into believing the "lie" is the "truth," to deceive many into believing they are worshiping God when in fact, they are worshiping the father of the lie, Satan…is the god of Watchtower (John 8:44; 2 Cor.11:3-4,9,11,14-15; Gal.1:8; Matt.4:10).  Satan is the dragon, the unfaithful anointed are the false prophet, and the wild beast is the physical religious idol organization that claims to represent God and Jesus but teaches falsehood (Deut.32:21,32-33; Rom.1:21-25; Rev.13:4,15; 16:13-14; 2 Cor.11:14-15; Matt.24:11; 1 John 4:1; Rev.19:11-13; 2:16; 19:20; 20:10).  

Why would a God of love who protects His people from the destroyer, command Jesus to be as Satan, a murderer, to physically slay people with literal fire, swords, and bows and arrows (1 John 4:8; Exod.12:23; Heb.11:28; Ezek.33:11; John 3:16; 8:44). Why would God command Jesus to cause death, the very enemy Jesus will bring to nothing and that belong to the devil (1 Cor.15:26; Heb.2:14,15; Rev.20:10). Satan is the bloodthirsty murderer, the destroyer, not God, Jesus, or faithful Spirit-anointed (John 8:44; 10:10; 3:16; 2 Pet.3:9; 1 John 4:8; Num.23:19; Heb.1:1-4; 13:8).   

Do you understand the brevity behind this insidious lie that Armageddon is a day God, Jesus, and the Watchtower governing body physically slaughter humans and that survival is only possible within the walls of Watchtower?  Do not forget who the murderer is…Satan (John 8:44; Heb.2:14; 2 Cor.11:3,13-15; 1 John 4:7-10; Ezek.33:11; 2 Pet.3:9; John 3:16).  You must flee. Do not delay - Rev.18:4; Matt.24:15,16,37-39; Dan.2:35,44.  Do not forget who the liar is...Satan (John 8:44).  Teachings claimed to be true but are from man's imagination follow an entropic irreversible arrow of time ending in disorder and eventual expiration. God is not a God of disorder and it is impossible for Him to mislead His people into confusion with vacillating and expiring "truths" – “truths” that expire were never from the Spirit of truth, but from deceiving spirits  (1 Tim.4:1; John 16:13; 6:63; 14:6; Titus 1:1-2; 1 John 5:6; John 4:24; 15:26; Num.23:19; Heb.6:18; Titus 1:1-2; 1 Cor.14:33; 1 John 4:1,5-6; John 8:44).  If you choose to depart from the living God by placing your belief and hope on lies spoken by the unfaithful anointed, you will not receive Jesus’ refreshment nor is your name in the book of life  (Jer.10:1-5,8; Exod.20:3-6; Psalm 95:1,6-11; Matt.11:29; Heb.3:7-11,18-19; Rev.14:9-11; 17:8; 13:8; 21:22-27; 19:20; 20:10).  Jesus never commanded his disciples to teach his truth using best guesses based upon their own imagination, nor did Jesus ever make claim salvation is through association with a physical religious organization - salvation is through belief and faith in Jesus, in his words, he is the word and he offers refreshment, rest and the free gift of God, eternal life (Acts 17:24; Mark 7:6-7; John 1:1,14; 14:6; Gal.5:1; John 6:68-69,47; Matt.11:28-30; Eph.2:8).    

This letter is not to tear down your faith, but to build your faith.  Faith in Jesus, not man.  The administration of God’s kingdom, faithful spirit-anointed priests will be completed, His Kingdom will come, and through faith in Jesus you will receive eternal life…this is the truth, this is the good news and that is being proclaimed (Psalm 102:13; Zech.2:10,11; Matt.4:23; Luke 4:43,44; Matt.10:22-24).  Anointed must remain faithful to their head and are to humbly serve others, eschewing any form of self-importance, a behavior of the Pharisees (Col.1:18; John 13:12-16; John 12:42,42).  Faithful anointed are careful to avoid all direct and indirect forms of worship to themselves because they are in a position of service to others, sharing what was freely given them by Spirit and asking for nothing in return (Acts 14:11-15; Eph.2:8,9; John 14:26; 15:26). They recognize salvation belongs to God through His son, Jesus, and will steadfastly direct worship to God in truth, in Jesus, who is seated at the right hand of God and who has been elevated above all creation (Rev.22:6-9; Phil.2,3,5-11; Col.1:15-18; Rom.8:34; Psalm 3:8; 62:1; 95:1-11; 115:1). Who do you subtly or outright praise and thank, God or men? (Psalm 106:1; 71:8; Col.3:16; Rom.14:7-12; 1 Cor.4:6-10).  Jesus is imploring you to trust in God and to believe in him by placing complete trust, complete faith in him, and by doing so you will receive eternal life…will you trust in God and his promise? (John 3:16; 5:24; 6:47; 7:37-39; 10:27-30; Rom.2:6-8; Eph.2:8,9; Psalm 146:3; 118:8; Isa.2:22; Jer.17:5; John 14:1). 

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” - Jesus (Matt.11:28,29). 

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” - Jesus (Matt.4:17; 10:7; 9:13; Rev.9:20). 

I welcome your email should you have any questions or need for further clarification from scripture.

Rachel Pruden-Roman
Personal email: lifeswaterfree4u@gmail.com

On occasion, I receive responses to letters (posted on this blog) by email or other social media sites.  If interested, click this hyperlink to read a JW elder's response, with reply, and this email from another JW with response:  
https://inthenightaflyingscroll.blogspot.com/2023/05/just-imperfect-men-perfect-excuse.html?m=0

__________________________________________

For additional scriptural clarification, please visit the facebook page:  
JWs, "Come out of her, my people!" | Facebook

Also, my anointed partners' sites:  

WELCOME--MAIN PAGE: YHVH's Genuine Mountain (4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com)

https://www.christsdisciple.com/452913979

Armageddon - que tipo de guerra? (Idioma Portugues)

 Estimados irmãos e irmãs,

A Torre de Vigia tem produzido diversas publicações e vídeos que retratam a sua interpretação do Armagedon, com cenários propostos de eventos violentos. Numa emissão recente da JW, o Corpo Governante ungido explicou que se juntará a Jesus no céu, antes do Armagedon, para participar na aniquilação dos maus e para proteger as Testemunhas de Jeová que foram suas “amigas” quando viveram na Terra. Noutro vídeo da JW, um membro do Corpo Governante, Anthony Morris, disse à sua audiência que sabe “o que está por vir no Armagedon” — “muitas pessoas mortas”, humanos como cachorros-quentes queimados e “feridos na grelha”. Será que Jesus e o “Corpo Governante” ungido, juntamente com “outros "anjos”, vão pairar sobre a Terra empunhando espadas para a aniquilação física?

Em Apocalipse 19, vemos que, de Jesus, “saía uma aguda espada” (v. 15) e “o nome pelo qual se chama é a Palavra de Deus” (v. 13). “a espada do Espírito é a palavra de Deus” (Ap. 19:13; Ef. 6:17; Jo. 1:1,14). Jesus é devidamente nomeado “a Palavra de Deus” porque Ele é “a Fiel e Verdadeira Testemunha”, “o caminho, a verdade e a vida” e “nem na sua boca se achou engano” (Ap. 3:14; 19:11; Jo. 1:1,14; 14:6; 17:17; 1Jo.1:19; 5:20; 1Pe. 2:21,22). Os fiéis ungidos, empunhando a espada do Espírito, produzirão bons frutos e serão uma “fonte de vida” para os outros, mas apenas se permanecerem unidos a Jesus, a “videira,” a “luz” e a fonte de “água viva” (2Tm. 2:15; Jo. 7:37-39; Pv. 13:14; 25:26; Jo. 14:6; 7:37-39; Gal. 5:16; Lc. 6:45; Jo. 1:4; 3:21; Pv. 4:18; Ap. 21:6,7). Poucos permanecem fiéis e unidos a Jesus – “muitos são chamados, mas poucos, escolhidos” (Mt. 22:14; 7:13,14; 2Pe. 1:10; Ap. 17:14; Lc. 13:23,24).Antes do fim, haverá uma grande apostasia (1Tm. 4:1,2; 2Ts 2:3; 2Pe. 2:1; Mt. 24:5,24; 2Co. 11:13-15). Fomos prevenidos de que “falsos Cristos” (Cristo significa “ungido”) e falsos profetas surgiriam, mas não seriam facilmente identificáveis porque, no exterior, parecerão como ovelhas e serão bem vistos por aqueles que ouvem os seus ensinamentos (Mt. 24:11,24; Mc. 13:22; 1Jo 4:1; 2Pe. 2:1-3; Mt. 7:15; 2Co. 11:3,4,13,14; Lc. 6:26). Soarão convincentes ao parecerem adorar e honrar a Deus, mas ensinarão os mandamentos dos homens como doutrina (Rm. 16:17,18; Cl. 2:2-4; Mt. 15:8,9).

Discernir se os ungidos são fiéis e ensinam a verdade (ou infiéis e ensinam um evangelho diferente) exige avaliação porque as palavras podem soar aprazíveis, mais macias do que a manteiga e mais brandas do que o azeite, mas serem “espadas nuas” (Sl. 55:20,21,23; Rm. 16:17,18; Mt. 15:8,9). O poder está enraizado nas palavras e traz consequências tanto para o orador como para o ouvinte (Jr. 9:7-9; Sl. 64:2-4; 52:1-7; Pv. 19:9; Mt. 7:24-27; Jo. 5:24). Observe as imagens irrepreensíveis que as Escrituras usam para descrever as palavras que saem dos filhos ímpios e desobedientes de Deus. Eles “afiam as suas línguas como espadas” e“estendem as suas línguas como se fosse o seu arco para a mentira”,“armam, por suas flechas, palavras amargas, para de lugares ocultos atirarem sobre o que é reto” (Jr. 9:3,5,7-9; Sl. 11:2; 64:2-4; 52:1-4). Os discípulos de Jesus compreenderam que as armas e armaduras necessárias não eram “contra carne e sangue,” mas contra as “astutas ciladas do diabo” e os “dardos inflamados do maligno” (Ef. 6:1119).

Será que Deus combate a maldade que arde como fogo com o uso do fogo real? Deus declara explicitamente, “Não é a minha PALAVRA como fogo”? (Jr. 23:29a; Ef. 6:17; Ap. 19:13; Jo. 1:1,14; Hb. 12:29; Dt. 4:24; Êx. 24:17; Jr. 2:11). “A impiedade lavra como um fogo,” e, portanto, o escudo da fé em Jesus é indispensável para extinguir aos “dardos inflamados do maligno”… as mentiras que o falso profeta ensina e "os líderes" que levam o povo de Deus a errar (Is. 9:18,13-16; 5:24; Sl. 68:2; 2Pe. 2:1). Deus torna as bocas do Seu povo, Israel espiritual, a quem Ele escolheu, “como uma espada aguda” ao falarem com sinceridade usando “a espada do espírito… a palavra de Deus,” e, como flechas polidas, apontar com precisão para mentiras para demolir todos os “conselhos que se levantam contra o conhecimento de Deus” (Is. 9:18; Ef. 6:16,17; Sl. 68:2; 2Co. 10:3-6; Is. 49:2,3,5-8; Rm. 13:4; Mt. 10:34-36; Jo. 1:1,14; 2Tm. 2:15; Jo. 1:1; 2Tm. 3:16; 2Co. 2:14-17; 10:5).

O Armagedon não é um dia em que Deus aniquila fisicamente pessoas cujos cadáveres jazem em montes como “cachorros-quentes queimados”. O Armagedon é uma guerra espiritual e agora está a ocorrer uma guerra que usa a espada do Espírito, a palavra de Deus, para lutar contra as mentiras ditas em nome de Deus, sobre Ele e sobre o Seu filho (Zc. 9:14;6:5; Sl. 18:14; Ap. 4:5; Ez. 1:13; Mt. 24:31; Is. 66:15; Ml. 3:1; 4:5; Mc. 1:2; Mt. 11:14,15; Lc 1:17). Porque é que um Deus de amor que sempre protegeu o Seu povo do destruidor, ordenaria agora que Jesus se tornasse um assassino e matasse pessoas com fogo literal, espadas, arcos eflechas (1 Jo. 4:8; Êx. 12:23; Hb. 11:28; Ez. 33:11; Jo. 3:16; 8:44)? Porque é que Deus ordenaria a Jesus que causasse a morte, a própria coisa que pertence ao diabo e a qual Jesus extinguirá (1Co. 15:26; Hb. 2:14,15; Ap. 20:10)? Satanás é o assassino sedento de sangue, o destruidor, não é Deus nem Jesus, nem ungido, nem hoje nem no futuro (Jo. 8:44; 10:10; 2Co. 1:4; 1Jo4 :8; Hb. 1:3; 13:8).

Vemos em Apocalipse que “os reis da terra” são levados à “batalha naquele grande Dia do Deus Todo-Poderoso” por mentiras blasfemas que saem da boca de três espíritos impuros, espíritos de demónios: odragão, a besta, e o falso profeta (Ap. 16:13,14,16). Será que se enganaram ao acreditarem que os reis da terra representam entidades políticas governamentais? É um engano. O Reino de Jesus nada tem que ver com governos políticos, e o nascimento do Reino de Deus também não. (Jo. 18:36; Mt. 15:24; Rm. 14:17; 1Jo 4:1; 3:7-10; Jo. 8:44; Ap. 16:13; 20:10). Que as Escrituras o esclareçam. Os ungidos formarão o“sacerdócio real,” reis e sacerdotes (1Pe. 2:5,9; Ap. 5:10; 11:6; Rm. 8:17; 9:8; Gl. 4:7; 3:29; Ap. 5:10; 1:6; Êx. 19:6; Dn. 7:18). O Reino de Deus é o Seu sacerdócio espiritual, cada pessoa ungida é uma “pedra viva” notempo espiritual de Deus (1Pe. 2:5,9; Ef. 2:22; At. 20:28; Ef. 1:20-22; 5:23; 1Co. 6:19-20; 10:16; 12:12-31; Hb. 9:1,9,11). Os ungidos são co-herdeiros com Jesus, mas nem todos conservam as suas “coroas” (Ap. 3:11; 22:12; 2:10; Jd 1:6). Os sacerdotes ungidos de Deus receberam de Deus “o sacerdócio em dádiva ministral,” para oferta perpétua, “sacrifícios diários,” “sacrifícios constantes” (Nm. 18:7,6; Hb. 13:15; Jr. 33:18; Dn. 12:11). Ninguém pode tomar esta honra sobre si mesmo, quer seja “presenteado” por uma pessoa ungida ou simplesmente porque a deseja para si mesmo — deve, antes, ser chamado por Deus (Hb. 5:4,5; Êx. 28:1,43; 1Cr. 23:13; Jo. 15:16; 2Pe. 1:10; Ef. 4:4). É possível que não o saibam, mas devem compreender que já estamos na grande tribulação há bastante tempo. Quando Jesus disse, “Quem lê, que entenda,” Ele falava do uso do discernimento espiritual (Mt. 24:15). A grande tribulação não será distinguida por sinais externos, porque é uma condição do templo espiritual de Deus, um atropelo ao Seu santo templo, à Sua nação santa... ao Seu sacerdócio espiritual (Lc 17:20; 21:24; Mc 13:14; 1Pe. 2:5,9; Dn. 9:27; 12:11; 11:31; Êx. 27:21; 28:43). Qual é a grande tribulação do templo de Deus?Primeiro, o templo de Deus não é representado por uma organização religiosa de ídolos físicos (At. 7:24; 17:24; 2Co. 6:16; Is. 66:1,2). O sacerdócio espiritual sofre e tem sofrido uma grande tribulação provocada pelos homens sem lei, homens não ungidos, que “permanecem” no templo de Deus, atropelando os ungidos, tirando, roubando, o sacrifício diário que eles devem realizar como instrumentos de justiça (2Ts. 2:4; Mt. 24:15; Mc 13:14; Dn. 8:11; 9:27; Rm. 6:13,16; Hb. 13:15). Pensavam que Deus ficaria para sempre em silêncio perante esta rebelião e o espezinhamento do seu Templo? (2Ts. 2:3,4; Ez. 8:12; Sl. 37:7,9; 2Pe. 2:1-3; 1Sm. 15:23)?Não. Através do envio de profetas, Deus sempre avisou o Seu povo acerca da maldade, do desvio e da necessidade de arrependimento (2Cr. 36:15,16; Os. 6:5; Mt. 23:33-35). Jesus disse explicitamente que o Reino de Deus não surge com sinais visíveis, mas que esta geração perversa e adúltera receberá apenas o “sinal do profeta Jonas” (Mt. 12:38,39; Mc 8:12; Lc 11:49; 17:20,21; Jn 2:8; 3:1-4).

O caso apresentado. Os infiéis ungidos caíram e apostataram de Jesus ao promover uma organização religiosa idólatra que alegava representar Deus, aliando-se a pessoas não ungidas, “os homens do pecado”, a quem permitem desempenhar os deveres sacerdotais designados aos ungidos, destruindo o templo de Deus (2Ts. 2:3,4,9; At. 17:24; 2Co. 6:16; 1Pe. 2:5,9; 1Co. 3:16,17; Ez. 44:6-9). Deus demonstrou compaixão pela Sua casa, pela Sua morada e, através da sua Graça, houve um remanescente que despertou do seu sono espiritual, morte espiritual e se arrependeu, colocando fé completamente em Jesus, que lhes concedeu “visão” espiritual (1Pe. 2:5,9; Hb. 3:6; Ez. 12:2; Sl. 102:13; Lc. 4:14-19; Is. 10:21-23; Mt. 24:22; Rm. 9:27,28; 11:5-10; Rm. 13:11; At. 26:18; Ef. 2:1,2). A abominação do assolamento onde não devia estar, a acusação de que os infiéis ungidos participaram voluntariamente e permitiram esta profanação e espezinhamento do templo espiritual, um evento profético predito e revelado pelo Espírito Santo que os infiéis rejeitam como uma mentira (Mt. 24:15; Lc. 21:24; 2Ts. 2:4; Dn. 11:31; 9:26,27; Ap. 13:4,6-8; Lc. 12:10; Mt. 12:31; 2Ts. 2:10). O remanescente está em unidade com a evidência bíblica mostrada pelo Espírito, testemunhou esta abominação ultrajante assolando o templo espiritual de Deus, e torna público este testemunho de Jesus (Mt. 24:15; 2Ts. 2:3,4,9,8; Jó 32:8; 2Pe. 1:21; Ap. 11:3). Deus estabelecerá a justiça e fará o julgamento através do seu filho, Jesus, com base nas provas apresentadas perante Ele no testemunho unificado de duas ou três testemunhas, segundo a Sua vontade divina (Dt. 17:6; 19:15; 1Tm. 5:19; 2Co. 13:1; Ap. 11:3; At. 10:36,40-43; Pv. 37:2729; 89:14; Dn. 7:18,22; Mt. 6:9,10; Lc. 18:7).

Pensem... O que é que Satanás mais deseja? Ser adorado. Manter a sua governação. Como pode ele manipular de forma traiçoeira o sacerdócio espiritual de Deus para o adorar, no esforço de atrasar a conclusão da administração do reino de Deus? Ao “entrar” nos corações dos “eleitos”, das pessoas ungidas, seduzindo-as e aliciando-as pelos seus próprios desejos malignos (Tg. 1:14,15). É exatamente o que aconteceu. Pastores ungidos e infiéis, autoproclamados, deram à luz a morte, uma morte espiritual que lhes deu protagonismo para trair Jesus, rejeitando a verdade, reivindicando que a sua organização de ídolos “bezerros de ouro”representa Deus e que ela proporcionará a salvação (Lc. 22:3,47.48; Cl. 3:5; 1Pe. 4:3; 2:5; Êx. 32:8,9,33; 1Co. 3:9; Jr. 16:10-12; 7:28,30,27; 1Sm. 15:23; At. 4:10-12). Satanás deu a sua autoridade aos infiéis ungidos e à imagem deles, homens não ungidos, que agem em seu nome dirigindo uma organização religiosa de ídolos que blasfemam contra Deus.(Ap. 13:4-,11,12; Is. 66:1,2; Jo. 4:21,23,24; At. 7:48-50). Que falsidade esta pretensão, que deu à luz a morte àqueles que acreditam estar a adorar a Deus na verdade, quando de facto, estão a adorar o pai da mentira, Satanás… ele é o deus da Torre de Vigia (Jó 8:44; 2Co. 11:14; Mt. 4:10). Satanás é o dragão, os infiéis ungidos são os falsos profetas, e a besta é a organização religiosa e símbolo de idolatria, a Torre de Vigia (Ap. 13:4,15; 16:13,14; Mc. 13:22; 1Pe. 5:8; 1Ts. 5:3; Ap. 19:20: 20:10).

Compreendem a brevidade por detrás desta mentira insidiosa de que o Armagedon é um dia em que Deus, Jesus e a Sentinela que governa o corpo massacram fisicamente os humanos e que a sobrevivência só é possível dentro das paredes da Torre de Vigia? Não se esqueçam de quem é o assassino... Satanás (Jo. 8:44; Hb. 2:14; 2Co. 11:3,13-15; 1Jo. 4:7-10; Ez. 33:11; 2Pe. 3:9; Jo. 3:16). Vocês devem fugir. Não se demorem —Ap. 18:4; Mt. 24:15,16,37-39; Dn. 2:35,44. Se optarem por colocar a vossa crença e confiança numa organização religiosa idólatra liderada por ungidos infiéis que ensinam mentiras, o vosso nome não constará do livro da vida e não entrarão no descanso de Jesus (Êx. 20:3-6; Ap. 14:9-11; 13:8; 17:4,8,12-14; 21:27; 19:20; 20:10; Hb. 3:12,15,18,19). Jesus nunca exigiu escravidão aos homens ou ordenou aos seus discípulos que reconstruíssem uma organização religiosa física após a destruição do templo físico de Jerusalém, mas ordenou que adorassem a Deus em Espírito e verdade, e oferece refrigério, descanso e o dom gratuito de Deus, a vida eterna para todos aqueles que depositam fé n'Ele (Jo. 4:23,24; Êx. 20:3-6; 1Co. 10:14; Ef. 2:8; Jo. 3:15,16; 6:47; Mt. 11:28-30; Gl. 5:1; Rm. 1:25; At. 15:10,11; Jn. 2:8; 2Co. 6:16).

Esta carta não visa demolir a vossa fé, mas antes edificá-la. A administração do Reino de Deus será concluída, o Seu Reino virá, e através da fé em Jesus recebereis a vida eterna. Esta é a boa notícia e que está a ser proclamada (Sl. 102:13; Zc. 2:10,11; Mt. 4:23; Lc. 4:43,44; Mt. 10:22-24). Os ungidos devem permanecer fiéis à sua cabeça e devem servir humildemente os outros, evitando qualquer forma de presunção, um comportamento dos fariseus (Cl. 1:18; Jo. 13:1216; Jo. 12:42,42). Os fiéis ungidos zelam por evitar todas as formas diretas e indiretas de adoração a si mesmos porque estão numa posição de serviço aos outros, compartilhando o que lhes foi dado livremente pelo Espírito e não pedindo nada em troca (At. 14:11-15; Ef. 2:8,9; Jo. 14:26; 15:26). Reconhecem que a salvação pertence a Deus através do Seu filho, Jesus, e dirigem firmemente a adoração a Deus na verdade, em Jesus, que está sentado à direita de Deus, e que foi elevado acima de toda a criação (Ap. 22:6-9; Fp. 2,3,5-11; Cl. 1:15-18; Rm. 8:34; Sl. 3:8; 62:1; 95:1-11; 115:1). A quem é que vocês louvam e agradecem... a Deus ou aos homens? (Sl. 106:1; 71:8; Cl. 3:16; Rm. 14:7-12; 1Co. 4:6-10). Jesus implora-vos que acreditem em Deus e que acreditem n'Ele, colocando n'Ele uma fé completa e, ao fazê-lo, receberão a vida eterna... confiarão em Deus e na Sua promessa? (Jo. 3:16; 5:24; 6:47; 7:37-39; 10:27-30; Rm. 2:6-8; Ef. 2:8,9; Sl. 146:3; 118:8; Is. 2:22; Jr. 17:5; Jo. 14:1).

“Vinde a mim, todos os que estais cansados e oprimidos, e eu vos aliviarei. Tomai sobre vós o meu jugo, e aprendei de mim, que sou mando e humilde de coração, e encontrareis descanso para a vossa alma.” – Jesus (Mt. 11:28,29).

“Arrependei-vos, porque é chegado o Reino dos céus.” – Jesus(Mt. 4:17; 10:7; 9:13; Ap. 9:20).

Agradeço os vossos e-mails se tiverem alguma questão ou se precisarem de mais esclarecimentos sobre as Escrituras.

Rachel Pruden-Roman