LivingWatersForum.com

"2-KINGDOM" CONCEPT EXAMINED (Daniel 2:44)

Part 1. God's Earthly Kingdom -- How Established

[See blog with graphics at: http://livingwatersforum.com/2kingdomA.htm]

Daniel 7:21, 22 says this:

"I kept on beholding when that very horn made war upon the holy ones, and it was prevailing against them, and judgment itself was given in favor of the holy ones of Supreme One, and the definite time arrived that the holy ones took possession of the kingdom itself."

Verses 25-27 of Chapter 7 says:

"And he will speak even words against the Most High, and he will harass continually the holy ones themselves of the Supreme One. And he will intend to change times and law, and they will be given into his hand for a time, and times and half a time. And the Court itself proceeded to sit, and his own rulership they finally took away, in order to annilihate [him] and to destroy him totally.

"And the kingdom and the rulership and the grandeur of the kingdoms under all the heavens were given to the people who are the holy ones of the Supreme One. Their kingdom is an indefinitely lasting kingdom, and all the rulerships will serve and obey even them."

Also, Daniel 12:7 says:

"And I began to hear the man clothed with the linen, who was up above the waters of the stream, as he proceeded to raise his right [hand] to the heavens and to swear by the One who is alive for time indefinite: "It will be for an appointed time, appointed times, and a half. And as soon as there will have been a finishing of the dashing of the power of the holy people to pieces, all these things will come to their finish."

The Watchtower Society contends that the situational "harrassment of the holy ones" actually occurred some years ago, yes, between the years of 1914-1918. -- See Watchtower publication Pay Attention To Daniel's Prophecy pages 141-144.

But does this make sense?

Further, doesn't the above context absolutely show that:

(a) the kingdom's full establishment will be a future event, (Or, something that has not occurred yet thus far.)

and

(b) The kingdom Government itself referred to above in Daniel's prophecy, will be an EARTHLY Government, with the Governmental Seat of this Kingdom finding itself being situated right here upon the earth? Doesn't the context indicate that?

In other words, the "Holy Ones of the Supreme One" establish their own "government" right here upon the earth, without anyone needing to go to heaven. No one goes to heaven, but the Kingdom and the "holy ones" of the Supreme One, establish the "Kingdom of God" right here upon the earth. Doesn't the above context show this?

Actually, according to the above verses, the "Kingdom Government of God," is established right here upon the earth AFTER (and not before as the Watchtower Society teaches) the "harrassing" period of the "Small Horn" is finished. And clearly, there is no mention of a long drawn out, very much extended period of time (like 90 years) between the "harrassing" of the Holy Ones of the Supreme One, and the time God ordains they come into possession of the "kingdom of God." -- See Daniel 7:18.

But, according to the Watchtower Society, it has been more than 90 years since 1914, since that time the "harrassment" of the holy ones started... some 90 years?

Where do the scriptures indicate there would be some 90 years between the "war" of the "holy ones" and the "definite time for the holy ones to come into possession of the Kingdom of God"? Why would there be over 90 years between both events? Why would such time be alloted between the "harrassment" period of the "holy ones" and the time they take possession of the "kingdom" everlastingly? Where do the scriptures indicate this 90+ year period of time before coming into the "kingdom" for the "holy ones of the Supreme One"?

Daniel 7:21 shows that the "horn" makes "war" upon the "holy ones of the Supreme One." But, actually, have we seen this "war" upon these ones? Have we visualized an actual "war" upon the "holy ones" of the Supreme One?

Obviously, according to Daniel's account, the "holy ones" of the Supreme One, did NOT come under attack between 1914-1918, because this would have meant the "kingdom of God" would have been in position to start after that, upon earth. And we know, this did not happen at all.

Thus based upon the above information, the doctrine of 1914 as taught and understood by Jehovah's Witnesses and Watchtower Society today, cannot be considered correct in at all. Because we know no earthly "Kingdom of God," has been established since the designated years of 1914-1918, the time when the "holy ones of the Supreme One" were supposed to have be "trampled" upon and "harrassed" by God's permission. It has now been too many years passed to which show nothing of the sort has happened at all.

Thus, this "harrassment" period of 3 1/2 years or 42 months, must be a future event. Also, the full and complete establishment of God's Kingdom upon earth too, which occurs some time after that, must be a future event as well. This 3 1/2 year period of time is mentioned several times in the Bible as being a most difficult time for God's Name People, mystery "Israel." Bible prophecy indicates that during this time much persecution is heaped upon these "holy ones" of God. In fact, "because of transgression" committed on Israel's part regarding the "disgusting thing that causes desolation," Jehovah God has "given authority" for the surrounding "nations" to "act" against God's people in "war." -- Daniel 7:21; 8:12; Zechariah 12:1-3; 14:1, 2; Revelation 13:5-7

A KEY DIVISION IN GOD'S NAME PEOPLE MADE OVER "TRANSGRESSION"

Daniel 8:12 says,

"And an army itself was gradually given over, together with the constant feature BECAUSE OF TRANSGRESSION; and it kept throwing truth to the earth, and it acted and had success."

As mentioned above, because "transgression" has been committed by the nation of "Israel's" in overlooking the appearance of the "Disgusting Thing that causes desolation," the vast majority of "Israel", the "holy ones" in this instance come under intense persecution. God allows this intense persecution to test and refine the nation of Jehovah's Witnesses. -- Zechariah 12:1-3

However, we must point out that some few of Jehovah's Witnesses, will show real spiritual "discernment" and demonstrate this by "catching sight of the Disgusting thing" that "stands where it ought not," in a "holy place" and IMMEDIATELY take their "flight" from a "Jerusalem." Obviously they will do this because they immediately recognize this situation of allowing a "disgusting thing" to stand in a "holy place" shows the entire spiritual nation of Jehovah's Witnesses HAVE FAILED GOD greatly! They recognize these ones have failed God. They can see now, an unfaithful "Jerusalem" before them, one that has failed to recognize the danger of the "disgusting thing" being accepted by the worldwide congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Yes, Jehovah's Witnesses will now show full acceptance to the idea and teaching that the United Nations Organization is no longer to be regarded as the "Scarlet-Colored Beast" any longer. This viewpoint is revealed for us to see, in the June 1st, 2003 Watchtower magazine, page 20 paragraph 11. But again remember, it will take keen "discernment" for these special individuals to see this. -- Matthew 24:15, 16; Mark 13:14

That particular Watchtower article made the following curious statement:

"Gog of Magog is identified as Satan the Devil in his debased position since 1914. As a spirit creature, he cannot carry out his attack directly, but he will use human agencies to do his deeds. Who will these human agencies be? The Bible does not give us details, yet it does give us certain indications that can help us to identify who they will be. As world events unfold in fulfillment of Bible prophecies, we will gradually get an ever clearer picture. Jehovah's people avoid speculation but remain spiritually alert, fully aware of political and religious developments that fit into the framework of the fulfillment of Bible prophecy." -- See June 1st, 2003 Watchtower, page 20, paragraph 11.

In analyzing this statement above, we recall Jesus spoke many years ago, about a future time of decision for all servants of God, an intriguing situation that currently affects all Jehovah's Witnesses of our time. He referred to this situation at Matthew 24:15, 16 this way,

"Therefore, when you CATCH SIGHT of the disgusting thing that causes desolation, as spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in a holy place, (let the reader USE DISCERNMENT,) then let those in Judea begin fleeing to the mountains."

Again Mark 13:14 renders the key verse this way,

"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 to the mountains."

These "discerning" Jehovah's Witnesses must first "catch sight" of this horrible "disgusting thing" in their midst first. They must recognize that the "disgusting thing" is standing in a "holy place," in a place that he "ought not" be. And further they must use "discernment" to know it is high time to "flee", yes "take their flight" from Jerusalem because they know, the "great tribulation" is quickly to follow. That's God's vengeance, God's great wrath upon this unfaithful people. (Luke 21:22, 23) To maintain God's favor, these special individuals among Jehovah's Witnesses that show real "discernment", will now have to act quickly, without hesitation. -- Matthew 24:15-22

Most individuals who are familiar with what the Watchtower Society teaches know, Jehovah's Witnesses as a nation have for many years, regarded the United Nations Organization as the "Scarlet-Colored Wild Beast," also known as the "8th King." They know that the Watchtower Society has many times shown in scripture the "Scarlet-Colored Wild Beast", to launch a specific attack upon God's Name People just before Armageddon. Actually, the Watchtower Society has referred their readership of their printed publications many times to scriptures like Revelation 16:13 and 17:11-14 which actually show us this future situational attack. The Watchtower Society have often referred to these verses to show the future attack upon God's Name People does come from the United Nations Organization, just before the end comes and God acts to save His people.

Here are a few examples of what the Watchtower Society has taught in the past on the subject of the United Nations Organization's specific role in attacking God's Name People, all under Satan's direction.

Quote:
"In due course, the “scarlet-colored wild beast” itself must go off into destruction. But before this happens, and even before its FINAL BEASTLY ATTACK ON GOD'S PEOPLE, that UN beast has a special service to perform. Jehovah puts ‘his thought into the hearts of the wild beast and its militarized horns.’ With what result? God’s angel answers: “And the ten horns that you saw, and the wild beast, these will hate the harlot and will make her devastated and naked, and will eat up her fleshy parts and will completely burn her with fire.” -- The April 15th, 1989 Watchtower page 14, paragraph 14.

Also this example,

Quote:
"The prophecies of the Bible focus in on our day. They show us what lies immediately ahead. “For all the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) The prophetic word depicts mankind’s ‘last hope for peace,’ the UN, as a scarlet-colored wild beast. Oh, it may trump up some kind of shaky peace and share in the cry “Peace and security!" — in harmony with its charter and in fulfillment of the prophecy at 1 Thessalonians 5:3. But then Jehovah will maneuver the militarized “horns” of the UN to devastate false religion, “Babylon the Great,” of which Christendom’s sects make up the most reprehensible part. Then, when those “horns” turn to do battle with the Lamb, Jesus Christ, by attacking the peace-loving witnesses of Jehovah, God’s sword of execution will descend on those nations and their armies, and “they will by no means escape.” -- The November 15th, 1983 Watchtower page 23 paragraph 17

This particular quote shows exactly how the Watchtower Society sees the future between God's Organization and the United Nations Organization, their primary attacker.

Quote:
"The United Nations is actually a worldly confederacy against Jehovah God and his dedicated Witnesses on earth. It is really a conspiracy, with the worldly nations getting their heads together and scheming up what they may do against the visible organization of Jehovah God on earth. During this “conclusion of the system of things,” it was foreshadowed by the conspiracy referred to at Isaiah 8:12.—Matthew 24:3." The September 1st, 1987 Watchtower, page 20 paragraph 13

Now in this comment, please notice Satan's own personal choice in "human agencies" to attack Jehovah's Witnesses. It says,

Quote:
"With the desolating of Babylon the Great, the great tribulation will already have started. Then, urged on by Satan, the scarlet-colored wild beast and its ten horns will concentrate their attack on Jehovah’s people. The Devil, more wrathful than ever at God’s womanlike organization, is determined to use his dupes in waging war to a finish with the remaining ones of her seed. (Revelation 12:17) This is Satan’s last opportunity!" -- Revelation - Its Grand Climax At Hand! page 279 paragraph 1

These are but a few examples of what the Watchtower Society has written about the future attack upon God's People by the "Scarlet-Colored Wild Beast", also known as the "United Nations Organization."

However what most are unaware of is that has all changed now, with the release of the June 1st, 2003 Watchtower magazine. Now, according to that particular issue, God's Name People can no longer say, who will attack them in the future, specifically. They can no longer say with any certainty which "HUMAN AGENCIES" Satan the Devil will use to attack God's people. No, they cannot say this anymore because if they did, this would be ill-advised "SPECULATING" the article says.

Nevertheless, individual Jehovah's Witnesses of keen discernment, would be able to see-thru this facade and really "CATCH SIGHT" of the "disgusting thing" standing "in the holy place", right before their eyes. They at that time, would be able to see the "Disgusting Thing", standing in very close proximity to the holy camp of Israel. (This is especially so since many are aware of the scandalous affair that showed the Governing Body secretly and dutifully carrying out the auspices of the United Nations Organization for close to 10 years as a willing "NGO" or Non Governmental Organizational sponsor, between January 1992 thru October 2001.)

Yes, it is these types of especially "discerning" individuals, who would be able to understand what has occurred and would immediately "flee" from Jerusalem. And they will not hesitate to do so. They follow the bible's command without trepidation or any "trembling at man," which we know "lays a snare" to ones feet. Yes, they have the spiritual "discernment" to "flee from idolatry." -- Proverbs 29:25; 1 Corinthians 10:14

It will be this type of discerning Jehovah's Witnesses, that will be the first to make up an earthly government for God, where he "cuts out" of the Jehovah's Witnesses Organization, these select individuals. These will prove to the ones that show the greater "discernment" in recognizing the "Disgusting Thing" in the midst of Israel and will heed Jesus' advice to "flee" at once without hesitation. Since they are willing to leave, immediately, then Almighty God will take a "saving" action toward them, and will save such individuals from any PERSECUTION or "harrassment" by the "nations" for the 3 1/2 Times or "42 months". Yes, God will spare them and show great mercy toward them for their "discernment" and bravery and loyality to His Great Name. It is about these particular individuals, in whom the Bible refers to as the "Tents of Judah" that we will speak of specifically next. These individuals are known as the "Tents of Judah." -- Hosea 1:7; Zechariah 12:7

THE TENTS OF JUDAH "CUT OUT" OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES "MOUNTAIN"-LIKE ORGANIZATION FIRST

Zechariah 12:7 says:

"And Jehovah will certainly save the tents of Judah first, to the end that the beauty of house of David and the beauty of the inhabitants of Jerusalem may not become too great over Judah."

The "kingdom of God" itself thus, finds its membership originating upon the earth, actually with the escape and spiritual restoration of certain JW individuals we refer to as the "Tents of Judah." Yes, these individuals are the very first, that God saves from the Jehovah's Witnesses' Organization. They are "saved first." These are the ones that show real spiritual "discernment" in escaping the "Disgusting Thing" that has been "standing where it ought not", so close to the camp of Israel. God has selected these individuals, to come out of the JW Organization first. They are the same ones that Malachi referred to at Malachi 3:17 where it says,

"And they will certainly become mine, Jehovah of armies has said, at the day when I am producing a special property. And I will show compassion upon them, just as a man shows compassion upon his son who is serving him."

These "Tents of Judah" will be used by God to form an earthly government established right here upon earth, as the Royal Government of God. These ones will be is "cut out" of a earthly "mountain." "Cut out", not with human hands, but with the hands of God, out of an EARTHLY MOUNTAIN, one that is upon this earth today. What is cut out, is at first a small "stone." A small "stone" cut out by God, of God-Selected Individuals, first grouped together as a small congregation or "Stone." These God-Selected individuals are taken from the "mountain" that bears the Name of the Great God Jehovah. Yes, Jehovah's Witnesses as a spiritual nation would be this "mountain" that God "cuts out" for Himself to establish this earthly "Kingdom" of His. Therefore, this "mountain" is to be understood as Jehovah's Witnesses, as Modern Day "Israel" of bible prophecy!

(For more detailed information on the "Tents of Judah" see the article entitled: Identifying Those "Saved First" -- The Tents of Judah!)

To be sure, these God-Selected Individuals of the Jehovah's Witnesses Organization spoken of as the "Tents of Judah," are also called in the book of Revelation as being the "Male Child" that rules "with the iron scepter." The "Male Child" according to prophecy is born, during a time of great agony, great trial and tribulation, great pains like real "labor pains" of birth, during a time of great travail and agony for "Israel", the earthly "mountain" that they are "cut out" of by God's Almighty hand. -- Isaiah 66:5-9; Revelation 12:1-5

These things are done, as the prophet says,

"...Not by military force, nor by power, but by my spirit, Jehovah of Armies has said...For who has despised the day of small things?..." -- Zechariah 4:6, 10

A small "stone" at first. Not necessarily many, many individuals at first from that great "mountain" organization. But later growing, and growing more in size,into finally becoming "A Large Mountain" itself. So large a "stone" that it is "filling" the entire earth in size. And also with membership thereof possessing the "true knowledge of God," that makes finally, "true knowledge abundant" in all of the earth, as Daniel 12:4 says it would become.

A "stone" that once reaching its full size, with the backing of Almighty God Jehovah, Jesus Christ, and all the might of His heavenly forces of angelic warriors, is fully capable of pulverizing all existing governments pictured by the visioned statute, particularly the "feet" of the statute, the "feet" of "molded clay mixed with iron", just as Daniel 2nd chapter shows.

Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45 says this:

"You kept on looking until a stone was cut out not by hands, and it struck the image on its feet of iron and of molded clay and crushed them. At that time the iron, the molded clay, the copper, the silver and the gold were, all together, crushed and became like the chaff from the summer threshing floor, and the wind carried them away so that no trace at all was found of them. And as for the stone that struck the image, it became a large mountain and filled the whole earth."

"And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite; forasmuch as you beheld that out of the mountain a stone was cut not by hands, and that it crushed the iron, the copper, the molded clay, the silver and the gold. The Grand God himself has made known to the king what is to occur after this. And the dream is reliable, and the interpretation of it is trustworthy."

End of Part 1.

"2-KINGDOM" CONCEPT EXAMINED

Part 2. Heavenly Kingdom & Earthly Kingdom Concept Explained

We remember the words of Jesus at John 18:36, where he said

"...my kingdom is NOT of this world".

Some have wondered, the "kingdom" that Jesus referred to in John 18:36, what exactly was it? And was it the same "kingdom" Jesus taught his followers to pray for when he said, "Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth". (Matthew 6:10). Is it possible the latter mention of a "kingdom" at Matthew 6, could refer to an "earthly kingdom" arrangement from God? Yes, a "kingdom" that would be "set up" by God himself, during the final part of the days? -- Daniel 2:44

Actually, the Bible reveals the Kingdom that Jesus referred to in John 18:36, "which is not of this world", is not one and the same with the kingdom of Daniel 2:44, which ultimately crushes "all other kingdoms" upon earth and "it itself shall stand to time indefinite". Instead the Bible shows Almighty God shall "cut out" from an already existing "mountain" a small "stone", that will eventually engulf the entire earth. And God would rule from this magnificent "stone" or the "stone" becomes an _expression of God's vast rulership upon earth. We see it is Jehovah himself that "cuts out" to his liking this small regal "stone". So it is Almighty God Himself who "sets up" this earthly kingdom arrangement, to his liking. Jehovah God "cuts it out" from an already existing "mountain" that He possesses. -- Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45

And this earthly "kingdom" arrangement would exist and act more as an extension or physical representation of the Grander Heavenly Governmental arrangement or "kingdom" in Heaven.

Thus, the idea is born of a 2-kingdom Concept. The writer of this article will seek to prove God's Word the Bible, actually teaches us about two (2) separate and distinct "kingdom" governments that he uses to accomplish all of his purposes. Of course, it is to be understood the earthly arrangement is always subservient to Greater, All-Pervasive Heavenly Governmental arrangement that Jesus actually inherited in Heaven.

Here is a simple breakdown of each.

1) The latter government mentioned above is indeed an earthly "kingdom" or government that actually starts out here on earth, as the "tiniest [smallest] of mustard seeds" from a human standpoint, but grows up to be a powerful EARTHLY GOVERNMENTAL arrangement which eventually engulfs the entire earth. Interestingly, this earthly "kingdom" was foretold to have the most dubious beginning, even something that could be "despised" by man because of its "smallness" -- before God exalts it to earthly greatness. (Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45; Ezekiel 17:22-24; Zechariah 4:10; Mark 4:30-32) This earthly government will be headed up by a mystery figure, unknown to mankind today, and yet vividly described as being the "Chieftain" of Ezekiel 44:1-3, 45:22 and 46:16,17. He will prove to be a "christian" follower of Jesus Christ and will rule the earth from this new future "temple" arrangement spoken of in Ezekiel chapters 40-48. This EARTHLY government will be eternal and everlasting. (Daniel 7:13, 14, 18) We can be assured of this because of what Ezekiel himself said about that holy city, "The name of the city FROM THAT DAY ON will be Jehovah Himself Is There." Thus, this "kingdom" or "city" that sits upon a great and lofty Mountain, actually lasts forever. It is God's Earthly Governmental Arrangement. (Ezekiel 40:2; 48:35)

The prophets of old referred to this earthly kingdom many times. For instance, Isaiah and Micah showed it as being "Zion", a lofty mountain, where countless nations willingly "beat their swords into plowshares" and "learn war no more". These individuals literally "stream" to this new earthly governmental arrangement, in the "final part of the days". Daniel referred to it as a "Mountain of Decoration" that Jehovah God protects from the attack of the "King of the North", in the last days. But before this new governmental arrangement can take place, serious issues have to resolved. Godly discipline must come upon earthly "Israel" as God's seat of governmental rule, before the full establishment of this new earthly government. Once established and "Israel" is restored to God's full favor, it then begins its rule over earth everlastingly with God's backing. (Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:1-4; Daniel 11:44,45; Isaiah 4:2-6; Micah 4:6,7)

Unbeknowst to Jehovah's Witnesses and the Watchtower Society, this explains why Revelation 5:9, 10 shows this "kingdom" actually rules "UPON THE EARTH", rather than "over the earth", just as the Watchtower Society New World Translation Kingdom Interlinear Word-for-Word Bible clearly shows.

2) Of course, this earthly kingdom definitely differs from the kingdom that Jesus spoke of and directed first century christians to look to as their "heavenly inheritance". We remember the earthly "kingdom" governmental set up, operates always UNDERNEATHE the Heavenly Governmental arrangement purely as a subsidiary or extension of that all-pervasive government in Heaven. This is true at all times. As the earthly seat of Government of God, it represents exactly what ADAM would have possessed, as head Patriach of the human family upon earth, if he had remained faithful to God. Adam, according to God's purposes, would have occupied such a position upon earth before ALL mankind, if he had been faithful like Jesus Christ.

When we examine God's Heavenly Governmental Arrangement, God's Word shows this powerful governmental arrangement in the hands of Jesus, definitely was NOT to last forever or eternally. It remains God's Throne, God's Government. God's Universal Sovereighty, where he "Rules" unchallenged the entire universe of His making. Therefore the particular governmental RULE that Jesus spoke of that existed IN HEAVEN, was to be a temporary rule itself. It was not meant to remain as an "everlasting" rule by Jesus Christ, where Jesus Christ and his associate kings and rulers were to rule in the very presence of the Great August One, Jehovah God. The heavenly Rule of God, is clearly is a UNIVERSAL RULERSHIP, including all of God's creation, visible or invisible and is All-Pervasive. Naturally, its scope covers both heaven and earth, as Jesus said at Matthew 28:18. Thus, Jesus was to be given complete oversight and "authority" over both "heaven and earth", for a specific period of time only. It was to be a TEMPORARY rule.

Therefore, we should note then this "rule" exercised in heaven, is to be contrasted and deemed as quite different with the foretold "rule" of David's heir, who "rules everlastingly" upon David's Throne upon the earth. -- Luke 1:32, 33; Daniel 7:13, 14

Contrary to what the Watchtower Society and Jehovah's Witnesses understand, the Bible shows this heavenly "rulership" by Jesus actually begin in the first century starting with Jesus' heavenly resurrection to spirit life and being "Declared a Son" in the ultimate sense by Jehovah. (Romans 1:4) Thus, Jesus became a "conqueror" in the fullest sense at this time. Also, after taking the throne in heaven, Jesus promised his disciples that they too would become "conquerors" too. And as such, they would join him in that particular heavenly rulership. They would be allowed to "sit upon his throne", just as Jesus had been permitted to "sit upon Jehovah's Throne" in heaven. (Rev. 3:21)

But this kingdom's seat of government was heavenly, not earthly. This is the vital difference. Additionally, this heavenly rulership of Jesus and his followers would prove to be only temporary, and not permanent. Another vital difference. That is, the governmental rule of Jesus where, as it were, he rules from God's Throne, sitting at God's Right Hand would not last forever. It would have definite ending point. It was not meant to last forever. We know because of Paul's words where he stated that Jesus' kingdom must GO BACK TO GOD HIMSELF. Jesus must "hand over" the "kingdom" back to God Almighty. This means at some point, Jesus gives up his heavenly governmental rule, and returns it to his God and His Father, Jehovah. Jesus "turns the kingdom over" to Jehovah, when Jesus has fully accomplished Jehovah's will toward the earth, namely by the complete removal of the effects of adamic death, sin and the complete removal and destruction of all human "governments and authorities" upon earth as "enemies placed under his feet" in subjection. (Hebrews 1:3; 2:8; 1 Cor. 15:24-28)

The Bible tells us at Luke 1:32, 33, that Jehovah God would "give" Jesus the "throne of David". But think, King David never sat upon God's Throne in Heaven, did he? Neither was David or his "heir" ever promised that they would "rule" in heaven, upon God's Almighty Throne of Authority, right?

Actually, "David's Throne", we remember, was an earthly throne. An earthly seat of rulership. And history shows, Jesus never actually exercised his God-given "right" to sit upon an earthly throne to rule over the earth, which was surely INHERIENT in the promises of the Mosiac Law and Davidic Covenant attachments. Jesus fulfilled the Mosiac Law and rightfully possessed the right to rule on earth, as David's heir. But he did not necessarily, EXERCISE that right. Even though, at his resurrection, Jesus Christ was indeed "given" David's Throne, or at least the right to receive that EARTHLY throne, when he was fully "declared a Son" of God.

So, what happened to that God-given right, to "rule" the entire earth from "David's [earthly] throne", that rests in the hands of God's "only-begotten" son, Jesus? Well, Jesus still has that right. But, the Bible tells us Jesus is going to do something, UNTHOUGHT OF, UNHEARD OF, never, ever conceived by the hearts of men. Jesus is going to "give it" -- the right to David's Throne -- to someone upon earth. Jesus is going to give away, that God-given right to rule the entire earth, to a "christian" follower of his, a "man in union with christ" that Paul saw in a vision or revelation of the future, described at 2 Corinthians 12:1-5. A "man in union with Christ" that Paul would "boast" about. Let's notice Jesus' direct reference to this one at John 16:14, 15 where he promised:

"That one [spirit of truth] will glorify me, because he will receive from what is mine and will declare it to you. All the things that the Father has are mine. That is why I said he receives from what is mine and declares it to you."

Yes, the "Spirit of Truth", is a person on earth, a "christian" follower of Jesus, who will glorify Jesus before all earth's inhabitants. He will "bear witness" about Jesus. (John 15:26) He would "bear witness" about Jesus and this magnificent act of his, to give this earthly "Davidic" right of his to rule earth, to the "Spirit of Truth", the mystery "Chieftain" of Ezekiel 44:1-3, Ezekiel 45:22, Ezekiel 46:16,17. Yes, to the Modern Day "Servant" of Isaiah 49:1-9. He gives it to the one is to be known as "Shiloh", the one spoke of at Genesis 49:1, 10, the who is to come to the earth "in the final part of the days."

(For more detailed information on the "Spirit of Truth" being personified as a man, please see the article entitled: God's Sacred Secret: The Spirit of Truth and Elijah)

Yes, after we consider these verses, verses such as Ezekiel 44:1-3, Ezekiel 45:22, and Ezekiel 46:16,17 and many others, we can begin to see or understand that it really speaks of a man, a "christian" follower of Jesus, that God will use in a special capacity as a spiritual leader upon earth, who rules from a future temple of God's making. Ezekiel calls him the "Chieftain" who "eats bread" in the "east gate" before God Almighty.

Ezekiel 44:1-3 says:

"And he proceeded to bring me back by way of the gate of the sanctuary, the outer one facing east, and it was shut. Then Jehovah said to me: "As regards this gate, shut is how it will continue. It will not be opened, and no mere man will come in by it; for Jehovah himself, the God of Israel, has come in by it, and it must continue shut. However, the chieftain -- as chieftain he himself will sit in it, in order to eat bread before Jehovah. By way of the porch of the gate he will come in, and by way of it he will go out."

End of Part 2

"2-KINGDOM" CONCEPT EXAMINED

Part 3. Understanding The Heavenly Rule of Jesus Christ

Christ Enthroned in 1914 or Before -- Which?

Hebrews 1:3 says:

"He is the reflection of [his] glory and the exact representation of his very being, and he sustains all things by the word of his power; and after he had made a purification for our sins he sat down on the right hand of the Majesty in lofty places."

Above we read, Jesus was allowed to sit down at the "right hand" of His father. What does this Bible expression to "sit upon the throne" mean to the Watchtower Society?

Believe or not, it means absolutely nothing to the WTS as mentors of all of Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide.

Why do we say such?

Well, it seems the Watchtower Society has taught for many years now, that even though Jesus Christ is in heaven, given God's everlasting favor, and granted the great privilege of sitting at the right hand of God Himself, sitting upon God's Heavenly Throne, he is NOT ruling at all. He is just sitting there, "awaiting" upon his time to start his kingdom rule, which of course comes in the year of 1914, the year "discovered" by Charles Russell. They cite Hebrews 10:12, 13 as their proof.

This teaching is promulgated worldwide, even in the face of Matthew 28:18 which shows Jesus describing his great, all-pervasive "authority" shortly after receiving a powerful, spiritual resurrection to glory by saying,

"...ALL AUTHORITY has been given me in heaven and on the earth."

Now, someone unfamiliar with Watchtower Society teachings (for the past 125 years) might at this point say, "this doesn't make sense. How does the Watchtower Society explain the above verse?"

Well, after reading this verse above, the Watchtower Society will heartily agree with you that Jesus has been "given all authority" over heaven and earth. They won't disagree with that verse. But they will insist that Jesus Christ is still NOT ruling in the heavens, even though he has been given all of this power. They teach, he doesn't start "ruling" until 1914. The date the first president of the Watchtower Society, Charles Russell, as some believe "discovered" and revealed to the world by way of Russell's early writings, principally "Zion's Watch Tower".

The Watchtower Society agrees that Jesus was allowed to "sit upon Jehovah's throne" after his heavenly resurrection. But they cite Psalms 110:1 in showing the significance of the date of 1914, which says:

"The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: "Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies as a stool for your feet."

They point out that Jehovah gave Jesus the invitation to "sit at my right hand" only. That's it. No "rulership" for Jesus is implied in this above critical statement. They also remind you that Paul quotes from this text at Hebrews 10:12, 13, to re-enforce their position on the matter.

So, the Watch Tower Society teaches that although Jesus has been allowed to "sit upon Jehovah's throne," since his death in the 1st century, Jesus did not receive the "throne" for rulership until the year of 1914. He was not "enthroned". Simply put, he was just allowed to "sit" upon the throne of God, without being actually "ENTHRONED". They say that came much later. They say, Jesus was "ENTHRONED" in the year of 1914. But he was allowed to "sit" upon God's Throne and has been "sitting" there for close to 2,000 years. But he wasn't "enthroned". That's the critical distinction that must be made.

Keep in mind, this explanation of when Jesus is "enthroned" is no small matter, but an extremely important teaching to all Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide, numbering over 6 million to date. It is a very critical teaching because we know many other doctrines, practices and teachings of the WTS, such as the Authoritarian "Faithful and Discreet Slave" Class Arrangement itself, all hinge upon this particular "understanding" of scripture and its peculiar leanings. So we must not view this as a matter of trivial importance to God's Name People, Jehovah's Witnesses today. (Matt. 24:45-47)

However, Bible research reveals one simple problem with this teaching.

Namely this: It is impossible for an individual to be allowed to sit upon the throne of God, without actually being himself "enthroned". The statement or teaching is then an "impossibility".

Here are a few examples from the Bible to prove this point.

"SITTING UPON THE THRONE" -- WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

The first one that comes to mind, is the one where King David spoke the Davidic promise to his son, Solomon by saying,

"...If your sons will take care of their way by walking before me in truth...there will not be cut off a man of yours from sitting upon the throne of Israel." (1 Kings 2:4)

By saying this, did David mean "enthronement" or official rulership for his offspring, by saying "sitting upon the throne"? What would you say?

Also, how about the one where Solomon repeated this promise by saying,

"...There will not be cut off a man of yours from before me to sit upon the throne of Israel..." (1 Kings 8:25; 2 Chron. 6:16)

Also in this case, was Solomon implying "rulership" and "enthronement" by saying they would be allowed to "sit upon the throne"?

And here is an even stronger example. The inspired Psalmist was even more specific about the act of "enthroning" and what it meant by this expression, when speaking of Almighty God and saying of God Himself,

"God will hear and answer them, even He that is sitting ENTHRONED as in the past." (Psalms 55:19)

Now we must ask ourselves, what does that expression mean for Almighty God, this "sitting enthroned"? Does not this very expression "sitting enthroned", actually mean "enthronement", as is clearly shown here?

And yet, the Watchtower Society says that Jesus Christ was only "enthroned" in the heavens in the year of 1914, although he has been "sitting upon God's throne" and "given all authority in heaven and upon earth" ever since the first century. That's what they teach.

However, we can see there is no way that anyone could be allowed to "sit upon God's throne" and himself, not actually be "enthroned." That simply does not make good sense!

Clearly Jesus has been empowered as Jehovah's king from his own words found at Matthew 28:18.

So, on our parts, it would be a shameful "exaltation of foolishness" to say, to preach or to teach, that Jesus was going to "receive authority" over earth's affairs in the year of 1914 when he clearly states for the record that he had already received that particular "authority", Godly "authority" over everything right after his resurrection from the dead in the first century. -- Proverbs 14:29

And we read that Jesus even promised his followers,

"To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne, even as I conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne." -- Revelation 3:21

Here again, Jesus promises his faithful followers that they too, would be permitted to "sit upon his throne," if they would "conquer," the same way he had "conquered" and was permitted to "sit upon his father's throne". Nevertheless, in the same way, before they could be permitted this great privilege, they too would have to prove themselves "sons" of Jehovah.

"Anyone conquering will inherit these things, and I shall be his God and he will be my son." -- Revelation 21:7

Jesus points out the prerequisite for "inheriting all these things" was for one to "conquer" and thus show himself to be a "son," in the complete sense of the word. In this way, one would become a "son" and subsequently be "declared" after a period of testing, just as Jesus was. In this way, he would become a "conqueror" like Jesus. And in this way, Jehovah would become his "father" in the final, definitive sense. Paul spoke of Jesus' "declaration" of "sonship" by saying,

"[Jesus] ... who with power was DECLARED God's Son according to the spirit of holiness by means of resurrection from the dead -- yes Jesus Christ our Lord". -- Romans 1:4

"[GOD] LEFT NOTHING THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO HIM"

An additional scripture that also sheds light on the subject of Christ's authority and all that was given him at his resurrection from death is found at Hebrews 2:8 which says:

"All things you subjected under his feet." For in that he subjected all things to him [God] left nothing that is not subject to him. Now, though, we do not yet see all things in subjection to him."

This is a scripture that the Watchtower Society has NOT spent much time examining in their literature. We see this is so because Hebrews 2:8 shows us "all things have been made subject" to Jesus, since his resurrection.

In fact it says, "[God] has left nothing that is not subject" to him. That's right, "nothing," that was left "not subject" to Jesus' Heavenly Kingdom Authority, yes as early as the first century, as Paul shows.

Therefore, according to this verse, Jesus Christ is in complete control of "all things," and "nothing" is exempt from his authority and control. However, Paul adds this enlightening point for us by saying,

"...though, we do not see all things in subjection to him."

We, today, do not actually see the full power of Jesus demonstrated in "making all things subject" to him. No, even though in actuality everything is "subject" to Jesus right now. Nevertheless, God's Son simply has not totally exercised that power to fully demonstrate his domination over everything. That comes later.

Also, let's consider Paul's words at Colossians 2:10 which says:

"And so you are possessed of a fullness by means of him, who is the head of ALL GOVERNMENT AND AUTHORITY."

Now above, what exactly did Paul say was Jesus' official position toward "ALL government and authority," as of the first century?

Again, this is another verse found in the Greek text that the Watchtower Society does not spend a lot of time, actually explaining. The reason why is obvious. This verse clearly shows Jesus had already gained Heavenly Authority over "all governments and authority"...universally-speaking...as of the first century. Think about it.

Also, let's consider Ephesians 1:20-23 which says:

"with which he has operated in the case of the Christ when he raised him up from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above every government and authority and power and lordship and every name named, not only in this system of things, but also in that to come. He also subjected all things under his feet, and made him head over all things to the congregation, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills up all things in all."

Now, where is the mystery of any LACK of "authority" given to Jesus, after his resurrection to heavenly life in the first century? Actually, there is none. The above verses show that Jesus Christ, has been given complete "authority" over "every government," every "authority and power," and every "lordship." So if that is the case, then what possible "authority" over any human "governments" could be given to Jesus Christ at the year of 1914?

Jesus is already the "head" of every "government," "authority," "power," and "lordship" already -- pure and simple...as of the first century at his resurrection. So then, there is simply nothing, no nothing, by way of Kingdom Authority that can be given Jesus Christ, at this late stage of the game, as of the year of 1914. No, nothing!

And anyone who would teach otherwise, in the face of the scriptures cited above, then would have to be considered grossly incompetent as teachers of God's Word, and completely ignorant what first century christians actually believed and taught publicly about Jesus' Heavenly Kingdom Authority! Think about it. -- See 1 Timothy 4:6, 16; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Timothy 4:15, 16.

HOW JESUS' HEAVENLY REIGN ENDS

Paul wrote:

"Next, the end, when he hands over the kingdom to his God and Father, when he has BROUGHT TO NOTHING [or destroyed] all government and all authority and power. For he [Jesus] must rule as king UNTIL God has put all enemies under his feet [or destroyed them]. As the last enemy, death is to be BROUGHT TO NOTHING [or destroyed]." -- 1 Corinthians 15:24-26

As mentioned above, Jesus fully demonstrates his full control and domination over all, AT THE VERY END OF HIS REIGN. This is when Jesus removes all inherited "sin" "sickness" and Adamic "death" from earth's scene. Yes, when Jesus empties the grave, sheol/Hades completely. But when is that?

Well, the bible shows it will be AT THE SAME TIME Jesus also REMOVES ALL HUMAN "government, authority and power." These things all happen at the same time, actually in consecutive order. First, the destruction of all "government, authority and power" at Armageddon. And next, the resurrection and emptying of the graves of mankind. Yes, these two events are connected and need not be separated at all, contrary to what the Watchtower Society teaches on this matter.

How can we prove this?

Well, let's consider Daniel 12:1, 2 which says:

"And during that time Michael will stand up, the great prince who is standing in behalf of the sons of your people. And there will certainly occur a time of distress such as has not been made to occur since there came to be a nation until that time. And during that time your people will escape, every one who is found written down in the book. And there will be many of those asleep in the ground of dust who will wake up, these to indefinitely lasting life and those to reproaches [and] to indefinitely lasting abhorrence."

Yes, as Daniel indicates above, there is no great separation in time between God's destructive day, the time of "great distress" and the awakening of those who are "asleep in the ground of the dust", is there? No, the prophet Daniel does not indicate such an occurrence. No, but Daniel shows these things happen, together, in consecutive order, one after the other. This verse also shows that the earthly resurrection will bring all the dead up together, instantly, and not over a long 1,000 year period, as taught by the Watchtower Society.

So when Jesus rule comes to an end, when it has been finished, and all "government, authority and power" will have been removed from the earth's scene. And then, immediately following this event, "those who are asleep in the ground of dust" will wake up, by way of an earthly resurrection. A resurrection of the "righteous and the unrighteous" as Paul said. -- Acts 24:15

In this way, God's "last enemy", Adamic death will be done away with completely at the beginning of the 1,000 year reign of peace. -- 1 Corinthians 15:26

So these two events work together and need not be separated over a great period of time. Namely when Jesus brings "to nothing all government, authority and power" in complete and utter destruction before God, and lastly empties the common grave of mankind as he promised. -- John 5:28, 29

When Jesus does these two primarily things, when he has accomplished these two things, then Jesus' reign will "end". At this time, in all humiity, Jesus will "hand over the kingdom" to his God and father, Jehovah, and "subject" himself to this One, God Almighty, the Supreme Ruler in the Universe. This is how Jesus' reign in heaven, will end. -- 1 Corinthians 15:24-28

So, in harmony with Jehovah's will, the "enthroned" and reigning heavenly king, Jesus Christ is reigning now and has been doing so for close to 2,000 years. Ever since the first century. However, he simply has not as of yet, fully demonstrated his superiority over "all things" upon earth and their total "subjection" to his power. That comes later when Jesus removes "all government, authority and power" and performs the earthly resurrection from the grave.

Paul spoke of the enthroned Jesus' situation this way by saying,

"As for us, our citizenship exists in the heavens, from which place also we are eagerly waiting for a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will refashion our humiliated body to be conformed to his glorious body according to the operation of the power that he has, even to subject all things to himself. -- Philippians 3:20, 21

Yes, all things will be shown to be "subject" to Jesus, when he destroys all human "governments," "powers," and "authorities." This is when Jesus will DEMONSTRATE such "subjection" to himself. Yes, when he destroys them. Therefore based upon this understanding of matter, is it any wonder Paul wrote,

"But this [man] offered one sacrifice for sins perpetually and sat down at the right hand of God, from then on awaiting until his enemies should be placed as a stool for his feet." -- Hebrews 10:12, 13

Now, the Watchtower Society says this scripture proves Jesus is "awaiting" rulership. He is "sitting" at God's right hand, "awaiting" the year of 1914, so that he can become "enthroned" and BEGIN His rule.

But is that what Paul said? We just read what Paul said of the matter.

Paul said, sure, Jesus is "awaiting" something. But it is not kingdom rule. No, he is not "awaiting" this at all. No, but Paul said that Jesus is "awaiting" or expecting the Word from God to fully demonstrate his "authority" over his "enemies", by placing them "as a stool for his feet." Which means, as Paul states, to "bring them to nothing," or complete and utter destruction. That's what Paul is saying.

"Next, the end, when he hands over the kingdom to his God and Father, when he has BROUGHT TO NOTHING [or destroyed] all government and all authority and power. For he [Jesus] must rule as king UNTIL God has put all enemies under his feet [or destroyed them]. As the last enemy, death is to be BROUGHT TO NOTHING [or destroyed]." -- 1 Corinthians 15:24-26

As we have just read, Paul shows that at the end of Jesus' reign, he is allowed to bring his enemies, as "to nothing" or total destruction. Jesus' kingdom or rulership will extend itself until the actual time he is told by God to "put all enemies under his feet", in destruction. He is to "bring them to nothing". All "government and authority and power" upon earth, also inherited "sin" and "death", are all "brought to nothing" at the same time, by Jesus Christ's heavenly rulership. As the scripture says above, "For he must rule as king until..." he accomplishes this for God. And when he accomplishes this, then Jesus' rule ends.

God's Word indicates Jesus' rule from heaven will end right after Armageddon, when all the wicked political nations of this earth are destroyed and the grand resurrection of countless billions, are raised from the grave. (Daniel 12:1, 2) At this time, God's Earthly Kingdom Arrangement of New Jerusalem will be firmly established in the earth for world rulership for 1,000 years, and beyond. Thus, after destroying "all governments" that oppose God's Earthly Rulership of New Jerusalem, and emptying the graves of mankind's untaught dead, then such ones will be resurrected to PERFECT human life, yes life free from all the effects of sin and sickness, INSTANTANEOUSLY! (Acts 24:16) No, they do not have to "grow to perfection" during Earthly New Jerusalem's 1,000-year reign of peace, as the Watchtower Society taught all Jehovah's Witnesses, but this can be done instantly, by the Almighty Hand of God.

And of course as most Jehovah's witnesses already know, after the first 1,000 years reign of earthly peace has come to pass, something important must take place, according to God's Word. Then, at that time earthly peace will be briefly interrupted. Yes, because Satan is foretold to be let out of his abyss of inactivity ...but only "for a short time", then to test those who have never faced him before. He must "test" those of the resurrected dead who have never been "tested" by Satan before. So, logically these resurrected "dead" ones, after being properly taught God's Holy Word, then must be "tested" by Satan (before he is eternally destroyed along with all wicked ones, spirit or human) and then they can be said to have come off victorious. Now, after this final test, all humanity can be said to have "life", real life in God's eyes, for all time in the future. -- Revelation 20:5, 12-15.

yorww

______________________________________________________

Review Questions For Article: “Two Kingdom” Concept Examined


Part I

1. According to Daniel 7:25-27, what was taken away from the “small horn” and given to the “holy ones” of the Supreme One?

2. What is to happen to these “holy ones” before they are given the kingdom? (Daniel 12:7)

3. When considering the context of the above verses, would a considerable time pass by after the demise of the small horn before these “holy ones” would be given their kingdom?

4. What does the Watchtower Society contend happened during 1914-1918 and why is this not reasonable?

5. What conclusion must we reach regarding when the harassment of the “holy ones” will occur and why does Jehovah allow this to happen?

6. How will some among the Jehovah’s Witnesses show real discernment to avoid the persecution that will come upon the organization?

7. What has the Watchtower taught concerning the United Nations for many years, but how has this changed in recent years?

8. For those who are the first to show discernment relative to the Disgusting Thing and are the first to leave the organization on this account, how will Jehovah show them His favor and by what designation are they referred to in the Bible?

9. What is the “mountain” from which Jehovah cuts a small stone and what is the stone that eventually fills the earth? (Daniel 2:44)

Part II

10. Is the “kingdom” spoken of at John 18:36 the same as that of Daniel 2:44? Why do you so answer?

11. What can we learn about this earthly kingdom from the following verses: Mark 4:30-32; Ezekiel 17:22-24; Zechariah 4:10; Ezekiel 44:3 and 45:22; Micah 4:1-4; Daniel 11:44, 45; Daniel 7:13, 14, 18?

12. While we know that this earthly government rules over the earth, what does it truly represent as far as heavenly rulership is concerned?

13. According to Matthew 28:18, what was Jesus given oversight over when he was resurrected to heavenly life? So, in whose place would he be ruling and for how long?

14. Luke 1:32, 33 tell us that Jehovah would give Jesus the “throne of David.” What does this indicate?

15. Will Jesus ever exercise this right of earthly rulership? Why do you so answer?

16. What would this “spirit of truth” need to be in order to “receive from “what belongs to Jesus?” What other prophetic names would this one be known by?

Part III

17. How does the Watchtower Society explain Hebrews 1:3, which tells us that Jesus, at his resurrection, sat on “Jehovah’s throne?”

18. Even when Matthew 28:18 is shown to them, what is their response?

19. Why does the Watchtower Society cling to this teaching that Jesus did not become king until 1914?

20. What does the phrase “sitting upon the throne” mean according to the following scriptures: 1 Kings 2:4; 8:25; 2 Chronicles 6:16; Psalms 55:19?

21. What promise did Jesus make to his followers in Revelation 3:21 and what would they be expecting to do when resurrected to heavenly life?

22. In Hebrews 2:8, what heavenly event did the apostle Paul reveal as having already taken place in his day? (See also Colossians 2:10; Ephesians 1:20-23)

23. Why did Paul, in Hebrews 2:8, write that “we do not see all things in subjection to him?”

24. When does Jesus fully demonstrate his dominion over everything? (1 Corinthians 15:24-26; Philippians 3:20, 21)

25. What does the Watchtower Society teach as to the timing of the destruction of the governments and the resurrection? How does Daniel 12:1, 2 help us discern the truth?

26. How does the Watchtower Society explain Hebrews 10:12, 13?

27. What does it mean that Jesus was “awaiting until his enemies should be placed as a stool for his feet?”

28. According to 1 Corinthians 15:24, 25, does Jesus’ rule begin or end when his enemies are “placed as a stool for his feet?”

29. Therefore, how long has Jesus been ruling up to today and when will the thousand-year reign begin?

30. Contrast what the Watchtower Society teaches about the condition of the resurrected dead and what the YORWW teaches

31. Will his rulership last for only a thousand years after which he will have to return the kingdom back to Jehovah?

32. If the kingdom of the modern-day Servant of Chieftain never ends, why is the first thousand years of his rulership separated and specific attention called to it?



To get the answers for the review questions CLICK HERE.

***