#3 - Prophecies Being Fulfilled Today, 2 Peter 1;21.

Most people focus on prophecies that are visible on the world scene, like;

• Unprecedented warfare, - Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4.

• Famine, natural disaster, earthquakes and pestilences or pandemics. Luke 21:11, Revelation 6:5, 6, 8.

• Cooling off of love and increasing lawlessness, Matthew 24:12.

• Man’s ruining the earth, Revelation 11:18.

• The four horsemen of the Apocalypse, Revelation chapter 6.

• We are seeing the added fulfilment of the ongoing, pushing, between world powers, headed by America and Russia. As spoken of by Daniel the prophet, which is the path that leads to Gods kingdom rule. Daniel 11:44, 45.

These prophecies that are now being fulfilled. Others like them too, are very important, all making up a composite sign, like fingerprint. All combined, only fitting one time period.

The affects of these and others, make living in our generation “hard to deal with.”

They, also indicate that mankind is now living in the time period called, “Christ’s presence”, “the last days” and “the conclusion of this system of things.” Matthew 24:3, 2 Timothy 3:1.

However, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 tells us there are even more pivotal prophecies of a spiritual nature which “must come first” in our day. Before the Lord can come, Revelation 22:17.

Jesus stated among his prophecies regarding “his presence and the conclusion of this system of things''. That; “This good news of The Kingdom of God, WILL, be preached in all the earth for a witness, then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14.

This work, and the making known of God’s name has been, (according to "the faithful and discrete slave", prior to the year 2010), been completed to the point that, “all residence of the earth have at least access to, 'The Good News', even if they had not heard it personally”.

By accomplishing this work, Jehovah’s Witnesses are a large part of prophetic fulfilment in our day.

Please don’t stop reading, Jesus died for the whole world of mankind, did he not? Not just J.W.s, 2 Pet 1;21.

Just because the focus within these first few sections is heavily dealing with the witnesses, it’s not an attempt to convert you or talk them up.

It’s just factual information, that I personally have witnessed, that you likely need to know, which fits Bible prophecy. Not always in a positive way. Whether you accept this information or not, is entirely up to you.

Not to minimize the efforts of other forms of faith, Jehovah’s Witnesses have had a favoured position and in turn a heavier burden of responsibility before our King, and appointed judge, Christ Jesus, than other faiths.

The prophecies relating to “the conclusion of the system of things” are mostly written for Jehovah’s servants today, though countless others benefit from them.

There are also many Bible prophecies that are being fulfilled right now, recorded by other prophets and Bible writers, written before and after Jesus' ministry.

These are just a few

Jesus himself however warned at MT 24:11; “many false prophets would arise and mislead many”. Also; the Apostle Paul foretold of such events at 2 Timothy 3:1-13.

Who were they talking to and about? Christendom, the world of Christian religion. No!

Jehovah’s Witnesses have long pointed out the Christian faiths had begun to deviate from Christ’s teachings towards the end of and after the first century.

Acts 20:28-30 reveals; "After my (Pauls and the other Apostles in extension) going away oppressive wolves WILL enter in among you - from among you men will rise up and speak twisted things etc". See also Acts 24:5, 1 Cor 11:19, Tit 3:10, 2Pet 2:1. Even individuals like Nicolaus infiltrated the congregations as the Lord was well aware of; Acts 6:5, Rev 2:6, 15.

More heavily was this felt around 200 years later, when Pagan teachings were officially adopted by the then leaders, by the melding the two religions into a new course, and these doctrines have flourished in various forms, ever since.

2 Tim 3:13.

Yes, these things were prophesied and revealed themselves in earlier times. But if these other things have been fulfilled in this time period, then, if that's the case, according to their own reckoning, (Re Christendom), these and other prophecies are about those claiming to be God’s servants today. That is the organisation of J.W.s.

They themselves, by their deeds, have echoed the same prophecies, as current events have born out.

The Apostle Paul clearly stated at 2 Thessalonians 2:3, “let no one seduce you in any manner”, (again, the warning, to get ready, you may be deceived.) Because; “it will not come unless the apostasy comes first and the man of lawlessness gets revealed, (who?) the son of destruction.” (We will focus on this another time.)

What is Apostasy? It’s when a person or group, abandons their religious beliefs, either by deception or deliberately and begins teaching things unscriptural. Engaging in false worship and turning against God and their relationship with him.

In short: While all men have been watching “the signs of Christ’s presence” etc, in the physical world. They have missed the greater fulfilment of prophecy which “must come first”.

These prophecies, like those written in the book of Revelations are spiritual, being directed at and to the congregations; those appointed and approved. Revelation 1:4.

These warnings and the fulfilment of them point to J.W.s, as will become evident as we continue to sift through the events of our day.

Fulfilling prophecy

Just 2 proofs that these prophecies apply to the Witnesses.

• Jehovah’s Witnesses are the “only” religious organisation who bears the name Jehovah, within their name, and claim to be representatives of that name, the identifying and personal name of Almighty God, the Heavenly Father and in turn can truly be the only ones who can, logically, bring reproach upon it, "blaspheming" it.

• Fulfilling Bible prophecy, they have been the only ones to actively preach God’s coming Kingdom throughout the entire earth. Mt 24:14.

They were well aware of the privilege and a great responsibility to preach the truth about God’s word, to bear his great name and preach about His and Christ's incoming Kingdom. A privilege that many have rejoiced in.

Isaiah 43:10 declares “you are my witnesses is the utterance of Jehovah”. And Matthew 24:14, states that they would have success in preaching about God's kingdom, it “will be preached”.

A work no other faith or organisation accomplished. Jesus however gave them this warned, “Keep without spot, keep awake and keep on the watch and to keep our eye open, due to snares of the devil.”

The Faithful Slave class or Governing body of J.W.s, have repeatedly warned that this apostasy was a very real threat to the Christian congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses today. Repeatedly highlighting texts, such as: “the virgins” and “the lamps” Matthew 25:1, the “two at the hand mill, one taken the other abandoned.” Matthew 24:36-42, “the man not having on a marriage garment”, Matthew 22:11-13, the “Jezebel” influence in Revelations 2:20, the illustration of “the minas” Luke 19; 11-27 and on and on. Even including entire study articles such as these. Which I will publish at the end of this article.

• Watchtower study articles 1983, sept 15 page 10. Quietly bringing in destructive sects.

• April 1 page 20, reject apostasy cling to truth!

• And the article 1983 W.T. Page 12, Are you an imitator of Christ or an imitation Christian?

If you investigated, you will find countless more articles over the decades.

As you read back over these and others. What are they alluding to? A very real possibility and a very blunt warning, Apostasy! And the loss of God's favour.

Admittedly, these articles are older than many may be familiar with. Though, the information within; is current, intentional, precise and written with purpose. Why do I refer to older issues of the watchtower? The newer ones upset me too much, as I will explain about this another time.

GOD KNEW!

For today I would like to highlight a prophecy written some 3495 years ago, for us. It breaks my heart to even think about how Jehovah must have felt, knowing about what was to come. Deuteronomy 30:19, 20. Says; “I do take the heavens and earth as witnesses against you today, that I have put life and death before you, the blessing and the malediction; and you must choose life in order that you may keep alive, you and your offspring, by loving Jehovah your God, by listening to his voice and by sticking to him; for he is your life and the length of your days, that you may dwell on the ground that Jehovah swore to your forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to give to them.”

That was a prophecy spoken to and penned by Moses, from the true God, to the nation of Israel.

What does it have to do with us, today?

All who want any close relationship, would agree that it would require some effort and commitment on their own part. That is, “If", they are serious about being God’s friend, then even more so. Just as with any relationship.

So, this text also applies to all.

Deuteronomy 31:29b says, “And calamity will be bound to befall you ‘AT THE CLOSE OF THE DAYS’, because you will do what is bad in the eyes of Jehovah so as to offend him by the works of your hands.”

Notice he says, “At the close of the days'” is when this was to happen.

This was partly fulfilled in the first century, at the close of the Abrahamic covenant, and According to other prophecies it is being fulfilled again now.

God’s own people, his special possession, would turn on him. In the final “days of this system of things." Prophecy calls this time period, our time, now; “the last days” 2 Timothy 3:1, and, “the final part of the days” Daniel 10:14, and also “Christ’s presence” and “the conclusion of the system of things” Matthew 24:3.

This text In Deuteronomy calls attention to a unique time period, the “close of the days”. As was indicated by Paul, these things “must take place”. God saw this from a long way off.

Now read, Daniel 11:30b-35 - “And he will actually go back and hurl denunciations against the holy covenant and act effectively; and he will have to go back and give consideration to those LEAVING THE HOLY COVENANT. And there will be arms that will stand up, proceeding from him; and they will actually PROFANE THE SANCTUARY, the fortress and REMOVE THE CONSTANT FEATURE. “And they will certainly put in place THE DISGUSTING THING THAT IS CAUSING DESOLATION.” AND THOSE WHO ACT WICKEDLY AGAINST THE COVENANT, he will lead INTO APOSTASY by means of smooth words. But as regards the people who are knowing their God they will prevail and act effectively. And as regards those having insight among the people they will impart understanding to the many. And THEY will certainly be made to stumble by sword and by flame, by captivity and by plundering, for some days. But when they are made to stumble they will be helped with a little help; and many will certainly join themselves to them by smoothness. And some of those having insight will be made to stumble, in order to do a refining work and because of them and to do a CLEANSING and to do a WHITENING UNTIL THE TIME OF THE END; because it is yet for the appointed time”.

This prophecy was first fulfilled in the first century when the Roman armies destroyed Jerusalem, though this first fulfilment was largely symbolic. Why?

The law code and its sacrifices, its commands etc., came to an end when Jesus was killed. For as Paul explained, the Law was until Christ. Galatians 3:24, 25.

And the Jewish system of things had already been rejected. As Jesus stated, “look your house has been abandoned to you”, Matthew 23:38.

Paul also explained that now Christ had been raised up to heaven we thus have a more secure form of worship and hope for the future. And our temple is in Jerusalem above, Heaven. Galatians 4:26, far from the reach of a corrupt society. This accomplishment was to cement the rejection of the Jewish system of things as God's favoured channel.

The disgusting thing

The “Disgusting Thing” in the first century was the roman armies, standing right inside the temple, with their 'standards'. That is, their war flags, a symbol of reverence or worship to them.

To the Jews, this truly was a disgusting thing, for no one was ever allowed into the Most Holy section of the temple, apart from the high priest.

It’s similar with the final fulfilment, those who claim to be God's people, have similarly been rejected due to their leaving the path of righteousness. And the 'standing' of the disgusting thing “in a holy place, where it ought not”, is yet again symbolic.

“When you catch sight”, Jesus said; of something unclean, in a place where was once considered clean. At Mt 24:15.

Interestingly this text is recorded directly after the section about the kingdom preaching being fulfilled.

Why symbolic? The true God never shuts the door entirely for “those earnestly seeking him”, he always has a channel. Hebrews 11:6. It’s a sign of symbol of change.

The centre of pure worship “on earth” for J.W.s was, for many years has been the, “Bethel headquarters”, the name given to the headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses. From which, a genuine “Faithful and Discrete slave class”, supplied our spiritual food for the world wide congregations and gave direction for the preaching work, worldwide.

As the teachings from those now taking the lead started to falter, it became clearer to me that they were indeed rejected by God, no longer working with, or guided by The Holy Spirit.

To me, a disgusting thing was indeed standing where it ought not.

And as we will discuss later, from where they were being misled and thoroughly “misleading the many”.

They had wandered so far from humble service that they demonstrated their haughtiness, naming their newly built headquarters, “the New World Headquarters”.

Where “they say'' they are "our guides" into everlasting life. Even putting within its walls a “Bible theme park”, “idolatry”.

Whereas the scriptures clearly outline the channel from which all spiritual blessings come, being; GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT, through CHRIST JESUS. Then, through “faithful” representatives, chosen and tested to be fit to distribute.

All being administered from the seat and throne of the king, Jesus Christ, from heaven, “Jerusalem above”. Galatians 4:26. Never again from a man made “temple”. Hypocrites!

When Jesus quoted the scripture about “the disgusting thing standing where it ought not”. He added, “Let the reader use discernment”. Matthew 24:15. He was pleading with us, to think about it and to give it some thought.

Isn’t it just possible that God’s people, yet again, could wander? Just as Israel repeatedly did?

When, in the past, Israel deviated, their reply was. “As a father we have Abraham” or “Jehovah would never include his people in the judgement of the nations”.

As was the case in good king Josiah’s day, after they had turned to false gods and idols for guidance and left the Living God, leading to their deportation to Babylon. Judah refused to believe they could ever lose Gods favour as the rest had.

Notice Daniel say’s, these “remove the constant feature”. According to the footnote, the literal translation means; “sacrifice”. As Christians are no longer under the law covenant given to Israel.

The only sacrifice we offer today is through our worship, our actions, and the “sacrifice of lips”. Hebrews 13:15, 16.

If, what we teach, or say, is in opposition to the truth, found in God’s word; that is Apostasy.

Jesus; quoted Daniel as a warning to us, today. Mark 13:14, States, “However, when you catch sight of the disgusting thing that causes desolation standing where it ought not (let the reader use discernment), then let those in Judea begin fleeing into the mountains”. Notice he says Judea, not Jerusalem, covering the entire region surrounding the centre of pure worship. Rome’s main focus was to besiege the city?

Likewise today. The warning was to all congregations to “keep on the watch”. Not saying; when we see it, to get out of Bethel headquarters only.

Flee into the Mountains?

J.W.s, when explaining “the disgusting thing” and the “fleeing into the mountains” have in recent years said ; ”when that happens, flee into the mountain like ‘organisation’ of Jehovah’s Witnesses’”. Even at a large convention they performed a drama; a play of sorts, for all in attendance, which was seen around the globe. In it, they described life in the city of Jerusalem prior to, and during the Roman siege and then the destruction of the city.

The indifference toward Christians, the grappling for power by different factions within the city walls and all wanting their glory, all the while facing certain doom, just as Jesus predicted. And “they took no note”.

Also; they highlighted the challenge for the Christians who’d fled, to stay away during the lull before the army returned.

Yet again they said, “When we see” the congregations of J.W.s, “the disgusting thing standing where it ought not”, “to flee into the mountain like organisation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.” Jesus however said “let the reader use discernment”. We were also told to expect things to develop soon.

IF the governing body is the equivalent of those once favoured by God, the Levites, the priesthood and their form of worship. Then following them, could, likewise prove disastrous. Just as for those who remained in Jerusalem.

Paul said “the Apostasy must come first” before “the end of this system of things” in our own time.

Paul again warned of this Apostasy at 1 Timothy 4:1,2, “However the inspired utterance says definitely in LATER PERIODS OF TIME some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances (Apostasy) and teachings of Demons by the hypocrisy of men who speak lies, marked in their conscience as with a branding iron”.

Question; if Apostasy is the turning away from pure worship, either by sin or deception.

How can fleeing into any organisation be wise, unless we are certain that the organisation is spiritually clean, living in harmony with Bible principles and has Gods approval?

Matthew 24:36-42

I will later lay out some irrefutable evidence that most Jehovah’s Witnesses, as a whole, have seen and lived through but likewise; “took no note”. Also; that the current “governing body” has amassed great sin before Jehovah “by the works of their hands”, Deuteronomy 31:29. And as Jesus foretold, the people ``WILL TAKE NO NOTE” Matthew 24:36-42, and also “a veil” has been placed over the congregation. 2 Corinthians 4:3-6.

No, I am not an anti-Jehovah's Witness, nor do I judge any man, Galatians 6:5 reminds us “Each one will carry his own load”. Thankfully, we have an appointed judge Jesus Christ, one who can “sympathise” with us. And according to scripture, Romans 8:34 “pleads for us”.

In short, today, countless prophecies are being fulfilled, and not in a good way. But all things were foretold in the Bible, and our loving God is ready to forgive. (Not those he holds accountable)

For his word assures us that at Psalms 37:9, “Evildoers themselves will be cut off, But those hoping in Jehovah are the ones that will possess the earth”. See also Verses 10,11.

As was indicated by the statement from God, through Daniel, this is “In order to do “a Refining” work, a “Cleansing”, a “Whitening”. In a sense to knock any haughtiness and arrogance out of those who may yet still benefit from God's great mercy, His "undeserved kindness" Ja 4:6, that all will know; 'none are better than any others!', all who will be saved will be equally loved and useful to each other, and to our God. No matter their nationality or former beliefs.

Galatians 6:3, 4 puts it this way. “For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he is deceiving his own mind. But let each one prove what his own work is, and then he will have cause for exultation in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person.” In short; if someone thinks he is better than anyone, he is in fact; worse than everyone.

Jesus himself said “stop judging”, did he not?.

If everyone simply does their personal best, in life and service, Based on knowledge, they are successful and have reason to be pleased with themselves.

Your best and that of others may be very different, don't judge even yourself harshly, for who knows, what you can't do today, maybe you can tomorrow. Your best, is YOUR best.

Luke: 25, 26 encourages us, “Who of you by being anxious can add a cubit to his life span? If, therefore, you cannot do the least thing, why be anxious about the remaining things? “ As we work towards living life as was intended “in the beginning”, then God, at that time, will have “a people peculiarly his own''. Titus 2:11-14 explains , “for the undeserved kindness of God which brings salvation to all sorts of men has been manifested, instructing us to repudiate ungodliness and worldly desires and to live with soundness of mind and righteousness and Godly devotion amid this present system of things, while we wait for the happy hope and glorious manifestation of the great God and of the saviour of us, Christ Jesus, who gave himself for us that he might deliver us from every sort of lawlessness and cleanse for himself a people peculiarly his own, zealous for fine works.”

Nothing happens without the true Gods knowledge. Nothing happens that isn’t allowed to. That does not mean he causes it, or approves of it. James 1:13 assures us GOD, does not bring evil on anyone. “When under trial, let no one say: ‘I am being tried by God.’ For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone.” Daniel 11:35 stated that even some of those having insight will be made to stumble. Why?

So our king can refine them, us, and get them ready for “the real life” on a “paradise” on earth.

We can be cleansed and whitened, even though our 'clothing' is red. Isaiah 1:18-20, “come now you people, and let us set matters straight between us,” says Jehovah. “Though the sins of you people should be as scarlet, they will be made white like snow; though they should be red like crimson cloth, they will become even like wool. If you people show willingness and do listen, the good of the land you will eat. But if you people refuse and are actually rebellious, with a sword you will be eaten up; for the very mouth of Jehovah has spoken it.”

Although we can do very little about what happens around us or often to us.

We can't change today or reality. Fighting reality is futile. But we can change tomorrow, for us and our descendants.

There are many prophecies referring to this “Apostasy” and corresponding prophecies, “the man of lawlessness”, “the workers of lawlessness” and so on. All foretold. All coming true. Now!

Where can we go for pure spiritual truth?

Romans 3:21-26. “But now apart from law God’s righteousness has been manifested as it is borne witness to by law and the prophets; yes, God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, for all those having faith. For there is no distinction. For ALL have SINNED and fall short of the glory of God, and it is as a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by ransom [paid] by Christ Jesus. God set him forth as a propitiation through faith in his blood. This was in order to exhibit his own righteousness, because he was forgiving sins that occurred in the past while God was exercising forbearance; so as to exhibit his own righteousness in this present season that he might be righteous even when declaring righteous the man that has faith in Jesus''.

Why quote this text? Our trust should be in Gods provision for forgiveness and salvation. Not in mans. And again, to point out that no man, Jehovah's witness or other, should ever say in their heart, “all things only took place due to our preaching work, due to our bearing the persecution and heat of the day” or personal effort. We, J.W.s., can now add to our resume, “and I was thoroughly deceived and led into apostasy”.

Right now, today, I can’t point to any religion on earth and say they are on the right path, so as to have God's approval. But I can point to Christ as being fully in control of what is to come. Even while Satan, the ruler of this world, (a world alienated from the true God), is currently misleading many. 2 Corinthians 4:4 even refers to him as “the god of this system of things''. I’m certain that spiritual light will once again flash forth. In due season and in line with Bible prophecy, God’s will and time table. Ps 97:11.

It may be that much of this information is new to you. My hope is that it was understandable enough for you to come to know that the true God has all things in hand, nothing is too difficult for him.

“If you search for him” Amos 5:4, “he will let himself be found by you”. Also, I hope that when He becomes "all things to all people", you will see it. And you and your offspring will personally see his love and experience life, Everlasting life, under his loving and tender care.

John 17:3 says, “This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one you sent forth, Jesus Christ”. Rev 25:11, he IS making all things new".

This artists impression of paradise is taken from the publication, You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. published by Jehovah's Witnesses. 1981.

Notice some Bible promises shown in the illustration, All Nationalities in harmony and peace, Food for all by the work of their own hands and in cooperation, a peaceful environment for all creatures, housing for all. Notice who does the work! Everyone cares for the earth and life on it.

A beautiful reality, being made all the more certain as we see multiple prophecies being fulfilled every day.

Hopefully I can post some more information in the future to show how wonderful life in a peaceful new earth will be. I don't know what tomorrow will bring.

Next time I will begin to list the systemic changes that led the organisation of Jehovah's Witnesses into apostasy.

It may also be that my, and our understanding on some points may be refined as things progress with time and revealed prophecy, I also, am just a man.

Warm love to you. Thank you for your attention and your time and May the God of all comfort carry you through these “Last Days”. “The Final part of the Days”.

Till next time; man in expectation. :)

The mash-up! "You must love Jehovah your God, with your whole Heart, Mind, Soul and Strength and keep His Commandments. If you do, you will be wise enough to bypass any trial with ease, and have an indefinitely lasting name with The Living One. Those who fail to take these things to heart, will suffer shame and fall short in a large way, all that is his, will be destroyed and cease to exist.

You who love Him, however, will flourish with joy, under the tent cloths of Jehovah, always." Ecc 12:13, Mark 12:30 and Ps 37:18-20.