YORWW Congregation Manuscript #1009: Women Given Authority?
Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2024 12:01 am
SHOULD WOMEN BE GIVEN AUTHORITY IN GOD'S CONGREGATION?
YORWW Congregation Manuscript #1009
In the beginning, God created man and woman, created both them in His "image," and according to His likeness. This means, of course, Jehovah God originally endowed both man and woman with the same capabilities and qualities of His own likeness. Thus, man and woman have the same God-given abilities, gifts and attributes so as to reflect all the "fruits of the spirit" and Godly qualities in their lives, if they so desire. Both man and woman was created with the inherent capacity to yes, "imitate God." (Ephesians 5:1) Yes, both were created with these inner faculties and full capabilities so that they could both, fully please Jehovah, if they were so inclined. -- Galatians 5:22, 23; Ecclesiastes 12:13; 1 John 5:3
However, many Jehovah's witnesses may be surprised to know the Watchtower Society does NOT teach or believe the above. No, but instead they teach Jehovah God actually did NOT make woman, in His Own Divine "Image." No, the Watchtower Society says, God did not. Let's notice this in the following quote from the 1972 July 15th Watchtower magazine, page 445, article entitled: Woman’s Regard for Headship—How Demonstrated?
This particular article states:
"...Woman, too, was created with these qualities. However, her position is different from that of the man. The Bible tells us: "[Man] is God’s image and glory; but the woman is man’s glory." (1 Cor. 11:7) But why does not this text say that the woman also is God’s image?"
Now, let's notice how the article continues to make the vital point:
"...It should be remembered that man was created first and for some time was alone, being in God’s image by himself. The woman was made from the man and was to be subject to the man. The woman’s position thus is one that cannot reflect God’s position of headship toward his creatures, and it is this matter of headship that is discussed in 1 Corinthians chapter 11. Jehovah God is not subject to anyone. Unlike the woman, the man does not have an earthly head over him when it comes to matters relating to his wife and children. Hence in this respect he ALONE is "God’s image." In other respects, of course, the woman shares with the man in reflecting the admirable and lovable qualities of God."
Did you notice in the above quote, the Watchtower clearly teaches the woman when created by God, herself was actually NOT to be viewed as being made in "God's Image," because of the "headship" factor, as was the first man Adam? Relative to "headship" the article states:
"...He [Adam] ALONE is God's Image."
Of course the above statement suggests, the woman would be incapable of exercising "headship" over a household in its entirety, like the man. And this would be because, although possessing some of the qualities of God, still she was not endowed by God with this special capacity to take the lead, make major decisions, as was the man himself. Did you see this?
What a sad, twisted viewpoint of women, on the Watchtower Society's part...truly sad.
But more importantly this wicked viewpoint is directly contradicted by God's Word itself when it stated for the record at Genesis 1:27, 28 the following:
"And God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God's image he created him; male and female he created them. Further, God blessed them and God said to them: 'Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth."
Therefore, we can see the above bible text is completely opposite to what the Watchtower Society teaches, as God "blessed" both of them, both man and woman, male and female, and gave both of them, an inheritance over the earth, with the animals being in complete "subjection" to both man and woman. So then, originally in the Garden of Eden, God's original earthly kingdom, Jehovah granted an equally honorable place of dignity and respect for both man and woman, before...yes before the introduction of sin. Yes, the bible really does teach this. Think about it!
To further illustrate this point, as shown in the article Was Deborah A Judge Within The Nation of Israel, under the Mosaic Law System, women were given full authority in and among God’s Name People, to lead, govern and direct within the Theocratic Arrangement at that time. Yes, the woman Deborah was both a Prophetess and Judge within the nation of Israel, a married woman herself who still had been given the grand privilege to lead the entire nation of Israel as a Judge. – See Judges 4:4, 5.
Then too, we have the excellent example of the prophetess Huldah, who served as a guiding light for both "king" and "high priest" for the nation of Israel during the days of Josiah. When Josiah heard the reading of the "the very book of the law" found by high priest Hilkiah during the temple repair work, he sent a special delegation made upon administrative staff from himself as well as the "high priest" himself to "inquire of Jehovah" thru the inspired prophetess "Huldah." (2 Kings 22:8-20; 2 Chronicles 34:14-28) Since this was the case, this real-life example thus shows again, there was no hesitation, no reticence or apprehension on the part of the king or high priest (both males in the highest positions of leadership within the nation) to seek guidance and direction from a female "seer" or "prophet" who was clearly Jehovah's official prophetic "representative" for the nation of Israel at that time. -- John 1:6; John 7:29
Therefore, for the above reasons and more, the YORWW Congregation has re-instituted this Divine Principle demonstrated in the Mosaic Law System. This means, the formation of the YORWW Congregational arrangement is more predicated and based upon the Mosaic Law System in many ways, than the Christian Law Covenant Arrangement itself. Yes, the YORWW Arrangement, as God's Kingdom upon earth today, actually finds more of its roots within the Mosaic Law Covenant Arrangement, since this Law Covenant was originally written and geared especially for an EARTHLY governmental arrangement. – See Exodus 19:5, 6; Matthew 6:10.
THE "SONG OF MOSES" – WHAT IS IT?
The advent and rise of the YORWW Congregation and its new, unique and astute approach to bible principles and how these principles relate to the establishment of a Special Law (Scapegoat Law) for this particular congregational arrangement, yes, has been prophesied about, even in the book of Revelation.
For instance, Revelation 15:3, 4 where it says,
“And they are singing the song of Moses the slave of God and the song of the Lamb, saying: Great and wonderful are your works, Jehovah God, the Almighty. Righteous and true are your ways, King of eternity. Who will not really fear you Jehovah, and glorify your name, because you alone are loyal? For all the nations will come and worship before you, because your righteous decrees have been made manifest.”
Did you notice, the “righteous decrees” of Jehovah, are to be made “manifest” within the fulfillment of the events of the prophecy of Revelation? Yes, we will come to know the “righteous decrees” of God, the righteous laws of God, within these difficult times of ours, in our day and time. And whatsmore, these “righteous decrees” are being made “manifest” by way of the special “song” mentioned, yes, the “Song of Moses” -- manifest thru the appearance of the YORWW Congregational Arrangement itself.
No doubt, most Jehovah’s witnesses have wondered about that particular phrase mentioned in Revelation 15:3…namely the “Song of Moses,” – what does it mean?
Well, simply put, to the YORWW Congregation, the “Song of Moses” means a re-incorporation of many of the principles and laws themselves from the Law of Moses, fully incorporated within the New Scapegoat Law, which is itself based upon Leviticus 16th chapter. Yes, the actual Scapegoat Law itself, is rightfully taken from the Mosaic Law System to govern God's People on earth. And in fact, we can say, the Scapegoat Law system is actually born from the Mosaic Law System. And this is rightfully so because the Scapegoat Law Arrangement itself, is a law created especially as a government, that will ultimately rule all the peoples upon earth. (Rev. 12:5) Yes and indeed, the Scapegoat Law is very much like the Mosaic Law since, its laws are all set up and geared for the governing of life upon earth, where God’s Kingdom was “set up” originally speaking on earth, in the Garden of Eden. – Exodus 19:5, 6; Daniel 2:44; Matthew 6:10
Therefore, the “mustard grain” kingdom arrangement, the “tiniest” one even, that Jesus compared God’s Kingdom to, then turns out to be a small congregational grouping called the YORWW, that one day becomes great in growth. Yes, tremendous growth is experienced by the YORWW Arrangement, yes upon earth, till it actually consumes the entire earth. (Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45) Yes, the Kingdom of God, becomes like a tiny seed, that fully grows up to heaven-high status for the whole earth to see. But, it becomes a government or kingdom upon earth, an earthly government for the peoples. – Genesis 22:18; Ezekiel 17:22-24; Mark 4:31, 32; Revelation 12:5
THE YORWW CONGREGATION HAS "ENTERED INTO GOD'S REST" -- WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? -- Hebrews 4:10
Leadership within the YORWW Congregation, is actually handled differently, than under the Christian Law Covenant Arrangement, since of course it is a different covenant in itself. For example, under the Christian Covenant Arrangement, women were not permitted to occupy roles of leadership nor could they "exercise authority" over males within the congregational arrangement. Paul wrote,
“Let a woman learn in silence with full submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach, or to exercise authority over a man, but to be in silence. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. Also, Adam was not deceived, but the woman was thoroughly deceived and came to be in transgression.” – 1 Timothy 2:11-14
You will note above, that Paul ties in the transgression of Eve in the Garden of Eden, to the fact that a woman is not permitted to “exercise authority over a man,” nor to “teach” males within in the Christian Congregation. This counsel is very appropriate since under the new Christian Law Covenant, Israel, spiritual Israel did not possess a specific “land,” like ancient Israel which would necessitate a Law System to be governed by. No, but first century Christians were told that they were to be “temporary alien residents” within this world we live in, awaiting their final reward which would be presented to them in heaven, a heavenly inheritance and not an earthly one. -- 1 Peter 2:11; Hebrews 3:1
Therefore, since members of the Christian Law Covenant, first century Christians were to be viewed as “temporary alien residents” upon earth, under the Law of Christ, then certain mandates of the previous Law Covenant, the Mosaic Law, were not enforced. Among these mandates would include the Mosaic Law’s strict prohibition for Israelites to NOT MARRY non-Israelites – a requirement under the Mosaic Law. Nevertheless, we see overall consistency in both Law Systems of God, since even the Christian Law did issue the command to all spiritual adherents, “marry only in the Lord,” and “do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers.” So these 2 Law Systems still matched and showed harmony and consistency, as they continued to reflect God’s Righteous Standards, His “Righteous Decrees,” manifest through both Law Systems. – See 1 Corinthians 7:39; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Revelation 15:4
The YORWW Congregation recognizes these facts mentioned above, and thus strives to advance and promote a more enlightened approach to the question of whether female leadership within itself, should be permitted scripturally-speaking. (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16) Thru much bible study and prayer, we have come to realize that under the Mosaic Law System, Jehovah God actually offered a reprieve, or a "release" from the condemnations issued upon disobedient man and woman (and their condemned offspring) in the Garden of Eden. Yes, the curse or condemnation issued upon both man and woman, that falls upon mankind today. -- Genesis 3:16-19
Thinking back, we remember in the original Garden or Paradisaic Scene, the woman actually had an honorable position within the family circle. No, the man did not “dominate” her, as his personal “slave.” Also we remember the man, Adam, had a bright future too. Yes, the first man could look forward to work, good work, where he could perform his duties, or daily tasks within the Garden with reasonable effort, work that would not be considered “laborious” or straining in any way. Yes, Adam could express a natural, God-given genuine “propensity” and “affinity” for all tasks at hand, for all the work assigned to himself. No, the man did not have to work “by the sweat of his brow,” and till the earth expecting little or no results for his hard efforts, where only “thorns and thistles” would grow for him naturally it seemed. Yes, life was very good for the first man, very rewarding, very productive. So different from the way life turned out for him, AFTER, after God pronounced a curse upon him for his deliberate act of disobedience and put him OUT of the first earthly Kingdom of God, namely the Garden of Eden. -- See Genesis 3:16-19.
Then, the same could be said for the first woman too. Under original earthly kingdom conditions, neither would the woman experience an abnormal “craving” for her husband, during those days. No, she did not experience this abnormality to the point that she would allow him to ruthlessly “dominate” her and yes, lead her as a slave, as demanded by God's Curse upon her for disobedience. Yes, treat her as mere dirt, yes, less than dirt, as it were. Neither, would Eve, the first woman, expect her pangs of pregnancy, the pains of childbirth to be so excruciating, life threatening even, while being a part of God’s Righteous Arrangement, God’s Kingdom Upon Earth, in the Garden of Eden., where Jehovah truly ruled as king. Think about it. – See Genesis 3:16-19.
End of Part 1.
***
YORWW Congregation Manuscript #1009
In the beginning, God created man and woman, created both them in His "image," and according to His likeness. This means, of course, Jehovah God originally endowed both man and woman with the same capabilities and qualities of His own likeness. Thus, man and woman have the same God-given abilities, gifts and attributes so as to reflect all the "fruits of the spirit" and Godly qualities in their lives, if they so desire. Both man and woman was created with the inherent capacity to yes, "imitate God." (Ephesians 5:1) Yes, both were created with these inner faculties and full capabilities so that they could both, fully please Jehovah, if they were so inclined. -- Galatians 5:22, 23; Ecclesiastes 12:13; 1 John 5:3
However, many Jehovah's witnesses may be surprised to know the Watchtower Society does NOT teach or believe the above. No, but instead they teach Jehovah God actually did NOT make woman, in His Own Divine "Image." No, the Watchtower Society says, God did not. Let's notice this in the following quote from the 1972 July 15th Watchtower magazine, page 445, article entitled: Woman’s Regard for Headship—How Demonstrated?
This particular article states:
"...Woman, too, was created with these qualities. However, her position is different from that of the man. The Bible tells us: "[Man] is God’s image and glory; but the woman is man’s glory." (1 Cor. 11:7) But why does not this text say that the woman also is God’s image?"
Now, let's notice how the article continues to make the vital point:
"...It should be remembered that man was created first and for some time was alone, being in God’s image by himself. The woman was made from the man and was to be subject to the man. The woman’s position thus is one that cannot reflect God’s position of headship toward his creatures, and it is this matter of headship that is discussed in 1 Corinthians chapter 11. Jehovah God is not subject to anyone. Unlike the woman, the man does not have an earthly head over him when it comes to matters relating to his wife and children. Hence in this respect he ALONE is "God’s image." In other respects, of course, the woman shares with the man in reflecting the admirable and lovable qualities of God."
Did you notice in the above quote, the Watchtower clearly teaches the woman when created by God, herself was actually NOT to be viewed as being made in "God's Image," because of the "headship" factor, as was the first man Adam? Relative to "headship" the article states:
"...He [Adam] ALONE is God's Image."
Of course the above statement suggests, the woman would be incapable of exercising "headship" over a household in its entirety, like the man. And this would be because, although possessing some of the qualities of God, still she was not endowed by God with this special capacity to take the lead, make major decisions, as was the man himself. Did you see this?
What a sad, twisted viewpoint of women, on the Watchtower Society's part...truly sad.
But more importantly this wicked viewpoint is directly contradicted by God's Word itself when it stated for the record at Genesis 1:27, 28 the following:
"And God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God's image he created him; male and female he created them. Further, God blessed them and God said to them: 'Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth."
Therefore, we can see the above bible text is completely opposite to what the Watchtower Society teaches, as God "blessed" both of them, both man and woman, male and female, and gave both of them, an inheritance over the earth, with the animals being in complete "subjection" to both man and woman. So then, originally in the Garden of Eden, God's original earthly kingdom, Jehovah granted an equally honorable place of dignity and respect for both man and woman, before...yes before the introduction of sin. Yes, the bible really does teach this. Think about it!
To further illustrate this point, as shown in the article Was Deborah A Judge Within The Nation of Israel, under the Mosaic Law System, women were given full authority in and among God’s Name People, to lead, govern and direct within the Theocratic Arrangement at that time. Yes, the woman Deborah was both a Prophetess and Judge within the nation of Israel, a married woman herself who still had been given the grand privilege to lead the entire nation of Israel as a Judge. – See Judges 4:4, 5.
Then too, we have the excellent example of the prophetess Huldah, who served as a guiding light for both "king" and "high priest" for the nation of Israel during the days of Josiah. When Josiah heard the reading of the "the very book of the law" found by high priest Hilkiah during the temple repair work, he sent a special delegation made upon administrative staff from himself as well as the "high priest" himself to "inquire of Jehovah" thru the inspired prophetess "Huldah." (2 Kings 22:8-20; 2 Chronicles 34:14-28) Since this was the case, this real-life example thus shows again, there was no hesitation, no reticence or apprehension on the part of the king or high priest (both males in the highest positions of leadership within the nation) to seek guidance and direction from a female "seer" or "prophet" who was clearly Jehovah's official prophetic "representative" for the nation of Israel at that time. -- John 1:6; John 7:29
Therefore, for the above reasons and more, the YORWW Congregation has re-instituted this Divine Principle demonstrated in the Mosaic Law System. This means, the formation of the YORWW Congregational arrangement is more predicated and based upon the Mosaic Law System in many ways, than the Christian Law Covenant Arrangement itself. Yes, the YORWW Arrangement, as God's Kingdom upon earth today, actually finds more of its roots within the Mosaic Law Covenant Arrangement, since this Law Covenant was originally written and geared especially for an EARTHLY governmental arrangement. – See Exodus 19:5, 6; Matthew 6:10.
THE "SONG OF MOSES" – WHAT IS IT?
The advent and rise of the YORWW Congregation and its new, unique and astute approach to bible principles and how these principles relate to the establishment of a Special Law (Scapegoat Law) for this particular congregational arrangement, yes, has been prophesied about, even in the book of Revelation.
For instance, Revelation 15:3, 4 where it says,
“And they are singing the song of Moses the slave of God and the song of the Lamb, saying: Great and wonderful are your works, Jehovah God, the Almighty. Righteous and true are your ways, King of eternity. Who will not really fear you Jehovah, and glorify your name, because you alone are loyal? For all the nations will come and worship before you, because your righteous decrees have been made manifest.”
Did you notice, the “righteous decrees” of Jehovah, are to be made “manifest” within the fulfillment of the events of the prophecy of Revelation? Yes, we will come to know the “righteous decrees” of God, the righteous laws of God, within these difficult times of ours, in our day and time. And whatsmore, these “righteous decrees” are being made “manifest” by way of the special “song” mentioned, yes, the “Song of Moses” -- manifest thru the appearance of the YORWW Congregational Arrangement itself.
No doubt, most Jehovah’s witnesses have wondered about that particular phrase mentioned in Revelation 15:3…namely the “Song of Moses,” – what does it mean?
Well, simply put, to the YORWW Congregation, the “Song of Moses” means a re-incorporation of many of the principles and laws themselves from the Law of Moses, fully incorporated within the New Scapegoat Law, which is itself based upon Leviticus 16th chapter. Yes, the actual Scapegoat Law itself, is rightfully taken from the Mosaic Law System to govern God's People on earth. And in fact, we can say, the Scapegoat Law system is actually born from the Mosaic Law System. And this is rightfully so because the Scapegoat Law Arrangement itself, is a law created especially as a government, that will ultimately rule all the peoples upon earth. (Rev. 12:5) Yes and indeed, the Scapegoat Law is very much like the Mosaic Law since, its laws are all set up and geared for the governing of life upon earth, where God’s Kingdom was “set up” originally speaking on earth, in the Garden of Eden. – Exodus 19:5, 6; Daniel 2:44; Matthew 6:10
Therefore, the “mustard grain” kingdom arrangement, the “tiniest” one even, that Jesus compared God’s Kingdom to, then turns out to be a small congregational grouping called the YORWW, that one day becomes great in growth. Yes, tremendous growth is experienced by the YORWW Arrangement, yes upon earth, till it actually consumes the entire earth. (Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45) Yes, the Kingdom of God, becomes like a tiny seed, that fully grows up to heaven-high status for the whole earth to see. But, it becomes a government or kingdom upon earth, an earthly government for the peoples. – Genesis 22:18; Ezekiel 17:22-24; Mark 4:31, 32; Revelation 12:5
THE YORWW CONGREGATION HAS "ENTERED INTO GOD'S REST" -- WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? -- Hebrews 4:10
Leadership within the YORWW Congregation, is actually handled differently, than under the Christian Law Covenant Arrangement, since of course it is a different covenant in itself. For example, under the Christian Covenant Arrangement, women were not permitted to occupy roles of leadership nor could they "exercise authority" over males within the congregational arrangement. Paul wrote,
“Let a woman learn in silence with full submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach, or to exercise authority over a man, but to be in silence. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. Also, Adam was not deceived, but the woman was thoroughly deceived and came to be in transgression.” – 1 Timothy 2:11-14
You will note above, that Paul ties in the transgression of Eve in the Garden of Eden, to the fact that a woman is not permitted to “exercise authority over a man,” nor to “teach” males within in the Christian Congregation. This counsel is very appropriate since under the new Christian Law Covenant, Israel, spiritual Israel did not possess a specific “land,” like ancient Israel which would necessitate a Law System to be governed by. No, but first century Christians were told that they were to be “temporary alien residents” within this world we live in, awaiting their final reward which would be presented to them in heaven, a heavenly inheritance and not an earthly one. -- 1 Peter 2:11; Hebrews 3:1
Therefore, since members of the Christian Law Covenant, first century Christians were to be viewed as “temporary alien residents” upon earth, under the Law of Christ, then certain mandates of the previous Law Covenant, the Mosaic Law, were not enforced. Among these mandates would include the Mosaic Law’s strict prohibition for Israelites to NOT MARRY non-Israelites – a requirement under the Mosaic Law. Nevertheless, we see overall consistency in both Law Systems of God, since even the Christian Law did issue the command to all spiritual adherents, “marry only in the Lord,” and “do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers.” So these 2 Law Systems still matched and showed harmony and consistency, as they continued to reflect God’s Righteous Standards, His “Righteous Decrees,” manifest through both Law Systems. – See 1 Corinthians 7:39; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Revelation 15:4
The YORWW Congregation recognizes these facts mentioned above, and thus strives to advance and promote a more enlightened approach to the question of whether female leadership within itself, should be permitted scripturally-speaking. (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16) Thru much bible study and prayer, we have come to realize that under the Mosaic Law System, Jehovah God actually offered a reprieve, or a "release" from the condemnations issued upon disobedient man and woman (and their condemned offspring) in the Garden of Eden. Yes, the curse or condemnation issued upon both man and woman, that falls upon mankind today. -- Genesis 3:16-19
Thinking back, we remember in the original Garden or Paradisaic Scene, the woman actually had an honorable position within the family circle. No, the man did not “dominate” her, as his personal “slave.” Also we remember the man, Adam, had a bright future too. Yes, the first man could look forward to work, good work, where he could perform his duties, or daily tasks within the Garden with reasonable effort, work that would not be considered “laborious” or straining in any way. Yes, Adam could express a natural, God-given genuine “propensity” and “affinity” for all tasks at hand, for all the work assigned to himself. No, the man did not have to work “by the sweat of his brow,” and till the earth expecting little or no results for his hard efforts, where only “thorns and thistles” would grow for him naturally it seemed. Yes, life was very good for the first man, very rewarding, very productive. So different from the way life turned out for him, AFTER, after God pronounced a curse upon him for his deliberate act of disobedience and put him OUT of the first earthly Kingdom of God, namely the Garden of Eden. -- See Genesis 3:16-19.
Then, the same could be said for the first woman too. Under original earthly kingdom conditions, neither would the woman experience an abnormal “craving” for her husband, during those days. No, she did not experience this abnormality to the point that she would allow him to ruthlessly “dominate” her and yes, lead her as a slave, as demanded by God's Curse upon her for disobedience. Yes, treat her as mere dirt, yes, less than dirt, as it were. Neither, would Eve, the first woman, expect her pangs of pregnancy, the pains of childbirth to be so excruciating, life threatening even, while being a part of God’s Righteous Arrangement, God’s Kingdom Upon Earth, in the Garden of Eden., where Jehovah truly ruled as king. Think about it. – See Genesis 3:16-19.
End of Part 1.
***