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The Watchtower Society believes and teaches "Cessationism."
In short, a simplified definition of the term: Cessationism is the view that the “miracle gifts” of tongues and healing have ceased—that the end of the apostolic age brought about a cessation of the miracles associated with that age. Most cessationists believe that, while God can and still does perform miracles today, the Holy Spirit no longer uses individuals to perform miraculous signs.
The Watchtower Society's above erroneous viewpoint is mistakenly based upon, SINGULARLY, a faulty misinterpretation of the following bible text:
1 Corinthians 13th chapter:
8 Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when the perfect comes, THE PARTIAL WILL PASS AWAY. 11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.
(End Part 1)
Article written by: Donald C. Burney
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Is "Cessationism" A Correct Bible Understanding & Teaching . . . What Do You Say?
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Is "Cessationism" A Correct Bible Understanding & Teaching . . . What Do You Say?
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Re: Is "Cessationism" A Correct Bible Understanding & Teaching . . . What Do You Say?
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(Part 2 continued)
1 Corinthians 13:10 Closely Examined
[To see article originally posted back in the year of 2004 on LWF discussion board, please CLICK HERE.]
[Also see intro blog (complete with full-color graphics) for yorww website which gives key information to assist in understanding the following article: CLICK HERE.]
Paul stated the most intriguing words for us, that have had a lasting meaning for servants of God at present, and more importantly will have an even greater, more profound one for us, once we come to understand the weighty implications of a hidden, yes Divine Disclosure through the spirit of God, when he penned the following words for us at 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. It states:
"Love never fails. But whether there are [gifts of] prophesying, they will be done away with; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we have partial knowledge and we prophesy partially; but when that which is complete arrives, that which is partial will be done away with."
Looking back, the official position of the Watchtower Society on when "that which is complete to arrive", was mentioned for us back in the 1975 Watchtower magazine, pages 95-96, states in part:
"...accordingly, the words 'when that which is complete arrives' must relate to the time when the prophecies of the Bible as well as God's will and purpose are fully understood."
The articles continues:
"We today are living in the time when 'that which is complete' is due to arrive."
The article further states:
"The physical facts in fulfillment of Bible prophecy confirm that Jesus Christ received kingly authority over the world of mankind in 1914 c.e. With that event the 'sacred secret' or 'mystery' of God was 'BROUGHT TO A FINISH.' in the sense that this event REMOVED the 'mysterious' aspect about this kingdom."
Actually, such a statement as given above, is NOT a true statement. In fact, this statement is especially reprehensible, as regards their calling attention to the year of 1914, with all of the falsehoods and untruths surrounding this 150-year teaching, that have surfaced in recent years. (This particular article was written in the year of 2004.) Thus, there can be no doubt that the teaching of 1914 is indeed, an "artfully contrived false story" that first century christians were warned against. Yes, that cornerstone teaching of 1914 that the Watchtower Society and company has taught for 140 years. A teaching that first century Christians would never, ever have taught and preached worldwide, to "the most distant parts of the earth". Why? Because first century Christians were under the DIRECT OPERATION OF GOD'S HOLY SPIRIT, where no false doctrine could be pushed to that extent, alas, with Jehovah and Jesus Christ's approval. Whereas the facts reveal, Jehovah's Witnesses, it seems have been under the direct operation of the Watchtower Society, minus Jehovah's Holy Spirit, which regrettably has resulted in the fall and spiritual demise of countless 10s of thousands of innocent servants of God and persons of interest, worldwide when they finally discover the truth about the 1914 teaching. (For an indepth discussion of the teaching of 1914 please see link below.) - Please compare Acts 1:8 with 2 Peter 1:16.
See Link: The 1914 Teaching - "Sacred Secret" or Falsehood
The article continues:
"...FROM THAT TIME ONWARD God's people have been experiencing a continued increase in spiritual knowledge and in understanding prophecy. This is in harmony with Daniel 12:4...Accordingly, 'that which is complete' refers to the full understanding of God's purpose as revealed in the bible. This being a time for such increased understanding of God's Word and the fulfillment of its prophecies, that 'which is complete MUST BE AT HAND." - Watchtower 1975 pages 95-96.
So, the "mysterious" aspect of about God's Kingdom, according to the WTS, has been "removed", ever since the year of 1914. And since that time, since 1914, Jehovah's Witnesses have been enjoying the FULLER UNDERSTANDING of Bible prophecy, even greater than anointed first century Christians.
However, the question we must ask ourselves is this:
Is it really true that since the year of 1914, Jehovah's Witnesses have been enjoying a "fuller understanding of bible prophecy", an understanding even greater than "anointed" first century Christians of Paul's day.
We remember 1 Corinthians 13:12 says of this situation:
For at present we see in hazy outline [Greek: ainigmati ] by means of a metal mirror, but then it will be face to face. At present I know partially, but then I shall know accurately even as I am accurately known."
The Greek word rendered "hazy outline" above is ainigmati which means riddle, enigma.
To be sure, Paul showed that there were many "riddles" found in the Greek Text, so far as the first century Christian congregation was concerned. Many "riddles" left in fact, to be discovered. And this fact is one that oftentimes escapes the notice of many religionists, theologians and spiritual leaders of our times. It is sometimes conveniently overlooked, to keep control of the people. Its done to perpetuate the idea, that most people have, yes that we today actually have a complete understanding of scripture and prophecy already. However, the facts reveal that this is NOT the case at all. In fact, serious bible study shows we are actually very, very far from it. And Paul recognized that fact. A fact that even the Watchtower Society has refused to see too, because it would cast doubt upon their most dubious claim to be the Official "Channel of Communication" for God as the Faithful & Discreet Slave. -- See Matthew 24:45-47.
See link for more detail information on this topic: https://jehovahstruth.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=400
Today, as we enlarge upon this most excellent bible topic, we notice one particular translation, The New Jerusalem Bible quoted below, does actually render 1 Corinthians 13:12 as being "riddles," that the first century Christians only saw as to understanding of God's Purposes.
This very Wise Act on Almighty God's part, namely to leave the Greek Text as it relates to the fulfillment of the His prophetic word as a "placebo," will ultimately in the end, show the whole world of mankind, from all ages and times, past, present and future, that Jehovah, the Great August One is, yes, "WISE ALONE." (Romans 16:27) Yes, the spiritual "placebo" that God left in the Greek Text, will reveal great, unsurpassed wisdom on His part, when we see how this all works out.
See article link: The greater outworking of His Grand Purposes in connection with the "seed of the woman." Amazing! — See Genesis 3:15.
As time goes on, the astonishing fact will be revealed, that God Almighty left a "riddle" effect in the Greek Text. Jehovah left a "placebo" within the Greek Text, as a "PARTIAL" fulfillment of the prophetic books of the bible, and was given to first century Christians like Paul. This was done, so that when all would come to know more about Jehovah and His Sacred Word, and that He had previously placed "riddles" in the Greek Text, for a specific purpose, then they will begin to realize Jehovah's Great Wisdom -- even as far back as the Garden of Eden, where it all started, we begin to get a glimpse of God's Great Unsurpassed Wisdom. (Proverbs 21:30) Again, that will be when the book of Revelation is finally fulfilled in its entirety, and the "MYSTERY OF GOD" which persists today, yes, 'WILL BE FINISHED"! - Revelation 10:7
Yes, it will finally be known at that time, what Jehovah God actually had in mind when He spoke the words to Satan, about the coming "Seed of the woman." — Genesis 3:15
So when mankind finally comes to know more about this greater mystery, then they will surely come to know, one thing. And that is no one can compare with Jehovah, especially when it comes to wisdom. No but, Jehovah is truly, "Wise Alone." (Romans 16:27) Also, mankind will then all know, Almighty God has again shown great wisdom in "hiding" or "keeping in silence" His Greater Purposes, and keeping them as a "riddle" or enigma, yes, all the way from the Garden of Eden till now! - Please compare Genesis 3:15 with Romans 16:25-27. Praise Jah!
The New Jerusalem Bible says of 1 Corinthians 13:12:
"Now we see only reflections in a mirror, mere riddles, but then we shall be seeing face to face. Now I can know only imperfectly; but then I shall know just as fully as I am myself known."
The above shows first century Christians, yes Paul's knowledge of Jehovah's Purposes at that time in the first century, could only be considered "imperfect", flawed. That's the most one can get out of this situation. God's Purposes actually seemed to be at that time, as you said, as a "riddle" that could not be solved, an "enigma" [Greek: ainigmati ] of great magnitude.
So then, we today, should not be so very surprised to realize after some initial study of the bible (on our parts) that suddenly we all begin to see is "riddles", enigmas, dilemmas, quandaries of thought, that are intertwined, with such complexity within scripture, so much so that no one can completely figure it out. No one on earth, for all ages!
But we must ask, should this difficult situation, this "enigma" of Scripture, be sooooo surprising to people today?
Actually, Revelation 5:1-4 likens our situation to one where God Almighty is holding the "scrolls" of His Sacred Word, tightly in His grip, where no one "unworthy", can snatch it out of His Mighty Hand. And the account shows only one person, is said to be "worthy" to "open" these mysterious "seals" of God -scrolls that have "7 seals" upon them to firmly keep them from being UNDERSTOOD, in our day. "Worthiness" comes into play here, the bible tells us. 'Worthiness", as in God's (not man's) eye sight.
This graphic scene, and prophetic drama from Revelation 5:1-4 shows, the inescapable truth, that only ONE person is PERMITTED by God Almighty, to understand these "scrolls" and UNRAVEL the Great Mystery of God for mankind. Actually one man.
It is the one God "sends"...the one Jesus "sends," the "Spirit of Truth", the foreteller of the future, which is clearly a miraculous full demonstration of his having and fully possessing the "gift" of "discerning inspired utterances." - John 14:26; John 15:26; 1 Corinthians 12:10; Isaiah 42:1-9
As stated above, what most of us fail to realize about God's Word, particularly the Greek Text, is that the Great "Mystery of God" still persists, even in our day, as revealed thus far. The "mystery" or sacred secret of the "man of lawlessness." The even greater mystery of "Babylon the Great." Also "the kingdom of God" is said to be a "sacred secret" or mystery [Greek: mysterion ], an "enigma" or "riddle" that no one on earth solve actually. And it would be impossible to do so, because of what Revelation 5:1-4 reveals. Jehovah will not permit it. -- 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 7; Revelation 17:5, 7; Mark 4:11
These then become "words that are NOT PERMITTED for a man to speak," or be "uttered", as Paul once pointed out. They are considered, "unlawful words". OUTLAWED words, even though these "words" are from God, but still not accepted by men. — See 2 Corinthians 12:4.
(To see article discussing 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, please click HERE.)
But, they are true words, only "outlawed" by mankind, because of their "partial" understanding and their "hazy outlined" thinking that has plagued them for close to 2,000 years now, drawn from the Greek Text. Essentially, mankind has relied too heavily upon the "hazy outline" thinking and understanding of Paul and first century Christians, in attempting to make a modern-day application of prophecy for our day and time.
But mercifully, at the appropriate time, when Jehovah says it must be done, then these "unlawful words," MUST BE UTTERED to mankind, even though they will not be completely understood, at first, when the "Spirit of Truth" speaks them. --John 14:17
So God Almighty, Jehovah must authorize the speaking of these most "unlawful words" of the "Spirit of Truth" which is due to arrive in our day, due to arrive as, "that which is complete." - John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 13:10
So then, we must continue to study and work hard as servants of Jehovah, until that grand time when it becomes fully revealed. Yes, we must continue to strive for true understanding, until the time when God and Jesus keep their holy promise to finally "send" the "Spirit of Truth" to us, that Jesus said must serve as a "guide" for us, and lead us "into ALL TRUTH," and even "declare the things coming" for us. And indeed, the YORWW Congregation says: "Yes, ... that day has finally arrived! -- John 14:26; 15:26
Yes, that day has "arrived," where Paul said above, Jehovah will reveal His full intent and purpose previously hidden in Genesis 3:15, and how He would fully accomplish His Own Grander Purposes, solving this great "mystery" that must be "finished" in our modern day times. — Revelation 10:7
One such mystery, relative to our discussion, that persists and must be cleared up, would be the one found at Joel 2:28-32 which says:
"And after that it must occur that I shall pour out my spirit on every sort of flesh, and your sons and your daughters will certainly prophesy. As for your old men, dreams they will dream. As for your young men, visions they will see. And even on the menservants and on the maidservants in those days I shall pour out my spirit."
"And I will give portents in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun itself will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah. And it must occur that everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will get away safe; for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will prove to be the escaped ones, just as Jehovah has said, and in among the survivors, whom Jehovah is calling."
Now here is a simple thought. The Watchtower Society does not believe in the "gifts of the spirit" being given to men/women in our day. These miraculous "gifts", specifically speaking. They say they have "ceased" and have been "done away with", based upon 1 Corinthians 13:8.
And yet, they do believe the "great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah" is fast approaching, as shown in Joel 2:28-32. It is a future event, but has not come yet. But Joel's prophecy said that before the great "day of Jehovah", God would "pour out his spirit on every sort of flesh" and daughters will "prophesy", old men will "dream dreams", young men will see "visions," and so on. These are miraculous "gifts" of the spirit.
So, if this is the promise of Almighty God to do this, BEFORE the great day of His, and we think that this is clearly a future event, then why are JWs teaching that these "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" and been "done away with"?
Even if the "gifts" of the spirit did "cease" one day, still we could not make such a proclamation to the public until, only AFTER the great "day of Jehovah," had come, right? And certainly not before that "day", I would think.
And yet, that is what we as Jehovah's Witnesses actually teach, namely the "gifts of the spirit" all have "ceased," and have been "done away with", but the great "day of Jehovah" still has not come. This is not a logical conclusion to reach. An certainly one that we should NOT be comfortable in teaching people in our public ministry.
But again, someone may ask the following questions:
The question is: In the Christian congregation, who has organizational authority and who has interpretational authority? Are they delegated to a central governing body? Are there differences between one and the other? Does those having organizational authority also have interpretational authority?
And finally: How does our system of worship as "Jehovah's Witnesses" compare to that which is evident in the Bible when it comes to these two aspects of the Christian congregation?
These are excellent questions that we really need to ponder. First of all, if we are thinking of the first century congregation, we would have to say authority/interpretational authority was ranked in order or patterned for us. For example 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 says,
"And God has set the respective ones in the congregation, first, apostles; second, prophets; third, teachers; then powerful works; then gifts of healing; helpful services, abilities to direct, different tongues. Not all are apostles, are they? Not all are prophets, are they? Not all are teachers, are they? Not all perform powerful works, do they? Not all have gifts of healings, do they? Not all speak in tongues, do they? Not all are translators, are they? But keep zealously seeking the greater gifts. And yet I show you a surpassing way."
Clearly from the above we see, the highest level of authority within the first century Christian congregation fell in the hands of the "apostles" of Christ. They were the chief interpreters for the congregation, so far as scripture goes. Next in order, it mentions "prophets", like a certain one named "Agabus" who indicated to the congregation that a great famine was to come upon the earth. In other words, he foretold the future for the congregation. (Acts 11:27, 28)
And so on and so forth, as the rank system is indicated above.
One outstanding thing we have to note, particularly when we talk about interpreting the scripture, in the first century this particular activity was considered a "gift" of the spirit. Yes, a supernatural activity — this ability to correctly interpret INSPIRED UTTERANCES, such as God's Word. Let's notice this important and key point being made below:
"For there are varieties of gifts, but there is the same spirit; and there are varieties of ministries, and yet there is the same Lord; and there are varieties of operations, and yet it is the same God who performs all the operations in all persons...For example, to one there is given through the spirit speech of wisdom, to another speech of knowledge according to the same spirit..to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..." - 1 Corinthians 12:4-10
Since God's Word is inspired, and since ONLY Jehovah can correctly INTERPRET His own word, Jehovah supplied "gifts" of the spirit, to assist those of the first century congregation in gaining the correct understanding of scripture. We must realize that God's direct help is imperative, and absolutely necessary to receiving a correct interpretation and understanding of sacred scripture. In this way, we can say: All interpretations of Scripture Belong to God. (See Genesis 40:8)
In our modern day setting, among Jehovah's Witnesses, the congregation structure is not based upon that fact. Authority and interpretation of scripture is based upon hind sight, "trial and error," lots of guess work and calculated estimations. Divine Inspiration has been ruled out as a possible solution.
But we must ask: could current congregational problems possibly be rooted in not observing the above scriptural thought? Must we recognize the fact that the key essential "gift" of the spirit that must be present within the congregational setting to give correct guidance to the congregation is:
"...DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..." - 1 Corinthians 12:10
We recall, the Watchtower Society teaches Jehovah Witnesses as a organization that Almighty God DOES NOT inspire individuals in our modern day times to interpret scripture. (For a full discussion of the subject of Godly "Inspiration" and its place in our day and time, please see the link below.) Therefore the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses works upon the premise that the "the [Divine] light gets brighter" on a gradual basis, as time goes on. But we must ask ourselves, is this a correct viewpoint, namely that God does not INSPIRE individuals in our modern day setting? More importantly, is this a scriptural viewpoint?
See Link: Godly Inspiration - Can We Identify It Today?
THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT CONSIDERED
1 Corinthians 12:10 speaks of "Gifts of the Spirit" that have to be consider INSPIRED activity from God. It says:
"to yet another operations of powerful works, to another prophesying, to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..."
Statement of Fact: In considering the above bible text, those that are blessed with a "Gift of the Spirit" would have to be considered inspired of God. Isn't that true?
Therefore, if interpretation of scripture is clearly shown to be a Special "Gift of the spirit" from God, then why do we (Jehovah's witnesses & ex-Jehovah's witnesses) insist otherwise? Why do we do this?
Think about it!
In other words, why do we UNINSPIRED people, continue to attempt to interpret Holy Scripture (inspired utterances) ... when God's Word makes it clear you can't do it, without his INSPIRED help.
After experiencing over 120 years of FAILED bible interpretations on the part of the Watchtower Society, haven't we had enough of the disasterous results from this kind of activity, to reach that humble conclusion?
Actually, we are very familiar with what is commonly retorted when asked about why Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe that the "gifts" of the spirit are present today. When asked this question, they immediately refer one to 1 Corinthians 13:8 as proof that the "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" today. But is that what the bible account is actually saying, I ask?
Let's consider it together.
"Love never fails. But whether there are [gifts of] prophesying, they will be done away with..."
Did you notice above, the words "gifts of" are in brackets within the New World Translation, published by the Watchtower Society? [Recent note: Newest New World Translation released the year of 2013 has removed the brackets around these words altogether...I wonder why?] That's because they are INSERTED WORDS by the translator, to enhance meaning. So the verse really, really, really didn't actually say "gifts" would be "done away with" or "cease," did it? Only, the Watchtower Society did. Think about it.
But let's continue:
"...whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we have partial knowledge and we prophesy partially but WHEN THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES, that which is partial will be done away with." - 1 Corinthians 13:8-10
Clearly, the emphasis is upon "that which is partial," — partial as in "partial prophesying", "partial knowledge" and so on. Meaning, the first century congregation actually had a "partial" knowledge and a "partial" understanding of scripture. They even "prophesied" partially, as Paul said above. What this means is that:
The Great Mystery of God...would persist...among Christians...until the "last days."
But nevertheless, Paul did remind the first century brothers that "partial knowledge" would not always continue and that one day, Jesus' disciples would finally understand the fuller and grander purposes of Jehovah, in a "COMPLETE" sense. As when "THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES". So, when "that which is COMPLETE [as opposed to "partial"] should arrive, namely the "Spirit of the Truth" that Jesus spoke about at John 16:13-15, then that which is "partial", yes their PARTIAL UNDERSTANDING, their PARTIAL PROPHESYING (where prophecies were confined to a first century application only) would be finally, by Almighty God's permission, be DONE AWAY WITH or discarded. "Done away with" or simply discarded as being of no use anymore. To be viewed as totally obsolete and irrelevant as to modem day application of prophecy to the congregation, and events thereof.
Therefore, the first century congregation were instructed to fully expect the discarding of "partial" things, so that when "that which is complete" was to arrive on the earthly scene, past "understandings" and explanations of scripture, would by God's permission, "BE DONE AWAY" with, thus leaving modern day disciples of Christ with a fuller, comprehensive understanding of God's Sacred Word. This explains why the book of Revelation points forward to the future wherein "new scrolls" would be opened for mankind's edification and enlightenment, and the old "partial" understandings of scripture and prophecy, would by necessity, and understandably so, BE DISCARDED to make way for "that which is complete" in UNDERSTANDING. Yes the "Spirit of the Truth." (Rev. 20:12)
To prove this is exactly what Paul was referring to he went on to say next:
"When I was a babe, I used to speak as a babe, to think as a babe, to reason as a babe; but now that I have become a man, I have done away with the traits of a babe. For at present we see in hazy outline [Lit., "in obscure _expression." NWT ftn] by means of a metal mirror, but then it will be face to face. At present I know PARTIALLY [Or, "I am taking in partial knowledge" NWT ftn], but then I shall know accurately even as I am accurately known." — 1 Corinthians 13:11, 12
Paul revealed first century Christians actually had an "obscure", "hazy" unclear viewpoint of God's Overall Purposes. They only saw God's Grander Purposes, in a "hazy outline" fashion. So, the picture they had of God's Word was not quite so distinct, and clear as Paul admitted.
And believe it or not, even now that "indistinct", "hazy", "obscure" vision of the scripture persists...even down to our day. Why? Again, it is because God's Will dictates it to be so until the advent of the "Spirit of the Truth," or "that which is COMPLETE" should "arrive."
So then when we really think about it, actually what was promised to "cease", was not the "gifts" of the spirit necessarily, as the Watchtower Society teaches, no but what was promised to "cease" or be "done away with" was the PARTIAL or INCOMPLETE UNDERSTANDING of God's Prophetic Word found in the GREEK TEXT. Yes, the Greek Scriptures themselves or explanations thereof found in them, Paul actually showed was to be REPLACED one day, with a fuller, more complete understanding of God's purposes, wherein the Greater "Mystery of God" would finally be "finished," as Revelation 10:7 said.
And additionally we are told, exactly WHEN the "partial" aspects of their understanding was to be replaced...when?
Again, exactly when "that which is COMPLETE arrives," the promised "Spirit of The Truth" that Jehovah and Jesus would "send" to mankind to "guide them into ALL truth" and "declare the things coming" or the future to them. Where they would get the COMPLETE picture and understanding of things from God's Sacred Word. - 1 Cor. 13:10; John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13-15
Even today, if one would insist that the "gifts" of the spirit have already "ceased" and are no more present among the Christian congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, then we can still ask relative to that thought: Has "that which is COMPLETE arrived" yet?
And if the Watchtower Society's answer is yes, and they must believe "that which is complete" has arrived (as they do of course), then we must reason the Watchtower Society should have then, a COMPLETE and composite understanding of scripture, including that of all bible prophecy and the book of Revelation. And of course, they believe that too. But, most of us know for a certainty, that is NOT the case at all. So then if we believe that, we cannot say:
"That which is COMPLETE" then, "has arrived," can we?
And if we cannot say that, namely "that which is complete has arrived," then we cannot say for a certainty, that the "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" either. Think about it.
Article written by: Donald C. Burney
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Review Questions For The Article: When "That Which Is Complete Arrives" (1 Cor. 13:10)
1. What hidden Divine Disclosure did Paul make as recorded at 1 Corinthians 13:8-10?
2. What is the official position of the Watchtower Society on when "that which is complete" will arrive?
3. Why is the year, 1914, not a good indicator of when understanding of Bible prophecy began increasing, and WTS’ continuing use of this date indicates that they lack what?
4. What does the Greek word "ainigmati" mean and what was Paul indicating when he used it at 1 Corinthians 13:12?
5. Jehovah’s superior wisdom is highlighted in the way that He allowed only a partial understanding of prophecy in the first century. What major prophecy, recorded in the first Bible book, has He withheld understanding of even up to our day that play a crucial role in the mystery of God being finished? (Revelation 10:7)
6. How does Revelation 5:1-4 demonstrate how Jehovah keeps humans from understanding prophecies that He does not want them to?
7. How is the one person worthy "to open these seals" identified at John 14:26, 15:26 and Isaiah 42:1, 6?
8. Understanding of the many "mysteries" of God found in the Bible is still hidden from all of mankind today. How does 2 Corinthians 12:4 describe these mysteries and why are they so designated?
9. Who will authorize the speaking of these "unlawful words" to mankind, by whom will they be spoken and to what purpose?
10. According to Joel 2:28-32, what event is yet to occur that brings into question what is taught by the Watchtower Society concerning whether the "gifts of the spirit" have ceased in our day?
11. In the first century was all authority invested in a few men who all had equal powers?
12. In order for a person to correctly interpret God’s inspired word, what will he need to possess? Why is this a reasonable expectation?
13. Since the Watchtower Society teaches that the "gifts of the spirit" ceased in the first century and therefore do not claim inspiration when they interpret the scriptures, how would you say that they arrive at their understanding of the Bible?
14. The Watchtower Society uses 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 to support their view that the "gifts of the spirit" ceased in the first century. But when these verses are given a closer look, what do we learn that the Apostle Paul had reference to that was going to be done away with?
15. Why did Jehovah allow this hazy, indistinct and obscure understanding of prophecy found in the Greek text to persist down to our day?
16. If the Watchtower Society teaches that "that which is complete" has already arrived, then what can we expect of their understanding of prophecy? Upon examining their doctrine do we find this to be true in their case? Therefore what conclusion must we draw?
(End of Part 2)
To get the answers for the review questions
CLICK HERE.
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(Part 2 continued)
THE REAL REASON THE BIBLE CANNOT BE COMPLETELY UNDERSTOOD IN OUR DAY AND TIME,
BUT ONLY WHEN ... "THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES"
BUT ONLY WHEN ... "THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES"
1 Corinthians 13:10 Closely Examined
[To see article originally posted back in the year of 2004 on LWF discussion board, please CLICK HERE.]
[Also see intro blog (complete with full-color graphics) for yorww website which gives key information to assist in understanding the following article: CLICK HERE.]
Paul stated the most intriguing words for us, that have had a lasting meaning for servants of God at present, and more importantly will have an even greater, more profound one for us, once we come to understand the weighty implications of a hidden, yes Divine Disclosure through the spirit of God, when he penned the following words for us at 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. It states:
"Love never fails. But whether there are [gifts of] prophesying, they will be done away with; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we have partial knowledge and we prophesy partially; but when that which is complete arrives, that which is partial will be done away with."
Looking back, the official position of the Watchtower Society on when "that which is complete to arrive", was mentioned for us back in the 1975 Watchtower magazine, pages 95-96, states in part:
"...accordingly, the words 'when that which is complete arrives' must relate to the time when the prophecies of the Bible as well as God's will and purpose are fully understood."
The articles continues:
"We today are living in the time when 'that which is complete' is due to arrive."
The article further states:
"The physical facts in fulfillment of Bible prophecy confirm that Jesus Christ received kingly authority over the world of mankind in 1914 c.e. With that event the 'sacred secret' or 'mystery' of God was 'BROUGHT TO A FINISH.' in the sense that this event REMOVED the 'mysterious' aspect about this kingdom."
Actually, such a statement as given above, is NOT a true statement. In fact, this statement is especially reprehensible, as regards their calling attention to the year of 1914, with all of the falsehoods and untruths surrounding this 150-year teaching, that have surfaced in recent years. (This particular article was written in the year of 2004.) Thus, there can be no doubt that the teaching of 1914 is indeed, an "artfully contrived false story" that first century christians were warned against. Yes, that cornerstone teaching of 1914 that the Watchtower Society and company has taught for 140 years. A teaching that first century Christians would never, ever have taught and preached worldwide, to "the most distant parts of the earth". Why? Because first century Christians were under the DIRECT OPERATION OF GOD'S HOLY SPIRIT, where no false doctrine could be pushed to that extent, alas, with Jehovah and Jesus Christ's approval. Whereas the facts reveal, Jehovah's Witnesses, it seems have been under the direct operation of the Watchtower Society, minus Jehovah's Holy Spirit, which regrettably has resulted in the fall and spiritual demise of countless 10s of thousands of innocent servants of God and persons of interest, worldwide when they finally discover the truth about the 1914 teaching. (For an indepth discussion of the teaching of 1914 please see link below.) - Please compare Acts 1:8 with 2 Peter 1:16.
See Link: The 1914 Teaching - "Sacred Secret" or Falsehood
The article continues:
"...FROM THAT TIME ONWARD God's people have been experiencing a continued increase in spiritual knowledge and in understanding prophecy. This is in harmony with Daniel 12:4...Accordingly, 'that which is complete' refers to the full understanding of God's purpose as revealed in the bible. This being a time for such increased understanding of God's Word and the fulfillment of its prophecies, that 'which is complete MUST BE AT HAND." - Watchtower 1975 pages 95-96.
So, the "mysterious" aspect of about God's Kingdom, according to the WTS, has been "removed", ever since the year of 1914. And since that time, since 1914, Jehovah's Witnesses have been enjoying the FULLER UNDERSTANDING of Bible prophecy, even greater than anointed first century Christians.
However, the question we must ask ourselves is this:
Is it really true that since the year of 1914, Jehovah's Witnesses have been enjoying a "fuller understanding of bible prophecy", an understanding even greater than "anointed" first century Christians of Paul's day.
We remember 1 Corinthians 13:12 says of this situation:
For at present we see in hazy outline [Greek: ainigmati ] by means of a metal mirror, but then it will be face to face. At present I know partially, but then I shall know accurately even as I am accurately known."
The Greek word rendered "hazy outline" above is ainigmati which means riddle, enigma.
To be sure, Paul showed that there were many "riddles" found in the Greek Text, so far as the first century Christian congregation was concerned. Many "riddles" left in fact, to be discovered. And this fact is one that oftentimes escapes the notice of many religionists, theologians and spiritual leaders of our times. It is sometimes conveniently overlooked, to keep control of the people. Its done to perpetuate the idea, that most people have, yes that we today actually have a complete understanding of scripture and prophecy already. However, the facts reveal that this is NOT the case at all. In fact, serious bible study shows we are actually very, very far from it. And Paul recognized that fact. A fact that even the Watchtower Society has refused to see too, because it would cast doubt upon their most dubious claim to be the Official "Channel of Communication" for God as the Faithful & Discreet Slave. -- See Matthew 24:45-47.
See link for more detail information on this topic: https://jehovahstruth.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=400
Today, as we enlarge upon this most excellent bible topic, we notice one particular translation, The New Jerusalem Bible quoted below, does actually render 1 Corinthians 13:12 as being "riddles," that the first century Christians only saw as to understanding of God's Purposes.
This very Wise Act on Almighty God's part, namely to leave the Greek Text as it relates to the fulfillment of the His prophetic word as a "placebo," will ultimately in the end, show the whole world of mankind, from all ages and times, past, present and future, that Jehovah, the Great August One is, yes, "WISE ALONE." (Romans 16:27) Yes, the spiritual "placebo" that God left in the Greek Text, will reveal great, unsurpassed wisdom on His part, when we see how this all works out.
See article link: The greater outworking of His Grand Purposes in connection with the "seed of the woman." Amazing! — See Genesis 3:15.
As time goes on, the astonishing fact will be revealed, that God Almighty left a "riddle" effect in the Greek Text. Jehovah left a "placebo" within the Greek Text, as a "PARTIAL" fulfillment of the prophetic books of the bible, and was given to first century Christians like Paul. This was done, so that when all would come to know more about Jehovah and His Sacred Word, and that He had previously placed "riddles" in the Greek Text, for a specific purpose, then they will begin to realize Jehovah's Great Wisdom -- even as far back as the Garden of Eden, where it all started, we begin to get a glimpse of God's Great Unsurpassed Wisdom. (Proverbs 21:30) Again, that will be when the book of Revelation is finally fulfilled in its entirety, and the "MYSTERY OF GOD" which persists today, yes, 'WILL BE FINISHED"! - Revelation 10:7
Yes, it will finally be known at that time, what Jehovah God actually had in mind when He spoke the words to Satan, about the coming "Seed of the woman." — Genesis 3:15
So when mankind finally comes to know more about this greater mystery, then they will surely come to know, one thing. And that is no one can compare with Jehovah, especially when it comes to wisdom. No but, Jehovah is truly, "Wise Alone." (Romans 16:27) Also, mankind will then all know, Almighty God has again shown great wisdom in "hiding" or "keeping in silence" His Greater Purposes, and keeping them as a "riddle" or enigma, yes, all the way from the Garden of Eden till now! - Please compare Genesis 3:15 with Romans 16:25-27. Praise Jah!
The New Jerusalem Bible says of 1 Corinthians 13:12:
"Now we see only reflections in a mirror, mere riddles, but then we shall be seeing face to face. Now I can know only imperfectly; but then I shall know just as fully as I am myself known."
The above shows first century Christians, yes Paul's knowledge of Jehovah's Purposes at that time in the first century, could only be considered "imperfect", flawed. That's the most one can get out of this situation. God's Purposes actually seemed to be at that time, as you said, as a "riddle" that could not be solved, an "enigma" [Greek: ainigmati ] of great magnitude.
So then, we today, should not be so very surprised to realize after some initial study of the bible (on our parts) that suddenly we all begin to see is "riddles", enigmas, dilemmas, quandaries of thought, that are intertwined, with such complexity within scripture, so much so that no one can completely figure it out. No one on earth, for all ages!
But we must ask, should this difficult situation, this "enigma" of Scripture, be sooooo surprising to people today?
Actually, Revelation 5:1-4 likens our situation to one where God Almighty is holding the "scrolls" of His Sacred Word, tightly in His grip, where no one "unworthy", can snatch it out of His Mighty Hand. And the account shows only one person, is said to be "worthy" to "open" these mysterious "seals" of God -scrolls that have "7 seals" upon them to firmly keep them from being UNDERSTOOD, in our day. "Worthiness" comes into play here, the bible tells us. 'Worthiness", as in God's (not man's) eye sight.
This graphic scene, and prophetic drama from Revelation 5:1-4 shows, the inescapable truth, that only ONE person is PERMITTED by God Almighty, to understand these "scrolls" and UNRAVEL the Great Mystery of God for mankind. Actually one man.
It is the one God "sends"...the one Jesus "sends," the "Spirit of Truth", the foreteller of the future, which is clearly a miraculous full demonstration of his having and fully possessing the "gift" of "discerning inspired utterances." - John 14:26; John 15:26; 1 Corinthians 12:10; Isaiah 42:1-9
As stated above, what most of us fail to realize about God's Word, particularly the Greek Text, is that the Great "Mystery of God" still persists, even in our day, as revealed thus far. The "mystery" or sacred secret of the "man of lawlessness." The even greater mystery of "Babylon the Great." Also "the kingdom of God" is said to be a "sacred secret" or mystery [Greek: mysterion ], an "enigma" or "riddle" that no one on earth solve actually. And it would be impossible to do so, because of what Revelation 5:1-4 reveals. Jehovah will not permit it. -- 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 7; Revelation 17:5, 7; Mark 4:11
These then become "words that are NOT PERMITTED for a man to speak," or be "uttered", as Paul once pointed out. They are considered, "unlawful words". OUTLAWED words, even though these "words" are from God, but still not accepted by men. — See 2 Corinthians 12:4.
(To see article discussing 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, please click HERE.)
But, they are true words, only "outlawed" by mankind, because of their "partial" understanding and their "hazy outlined" thinking that has plagued them for close to 2,000 years now, drawn from the Greek Text. Essentially, mankind has relied too heavily upon the "hazy outline" thinking and understanding of Paul and first century Christians, in attempting to make a modern-day application of prophecy for our day and time.
But mercifully, at the appropriate time, when Jehovah says it must be done, then these "unlawful words," MUST BE UTTERED to mankind, even though they will not be completely understood, at first, when the "Spirit of Truth" speaks them. --John 14:17
So God Almighty, Jehovah must authorize the speaking of these most "unlawful words" of the "Spirit of Truth" which is due to arrive in our day, due to arrive as, "that which is complete." - John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 13:10
So then, we must continue to study and work hard as servants of Jehovah, until that grand time when it becomes fully revealed. Yes, we must continue to strive for true understanding, until the time when God and Jesus keep their holy promise to finally "send" the "Spirit of Truth" to us, that Jesus said must serve as a "guide" for us, and lead us "into ALL TRUTH," and even "declare the things coming" for us. And indeed, the YORWW Congregation says: "Yes, ... that day has finally arrived! -- John 14:26; 15:26
Yes, that day has "arrived," where Paul said above, Jehovah will reveal His full intent and purpose previously hidden in Genesis 3:15, and how He would fully accomplish His Own Grander Purposes, solving this great "mystery" that must be "finished" in our modern day times. — Revelation 10:7
THE GREATER FULFILLMENT OF JOEL 2:28-32 IN OUR DAY
One such mystery, relative to our discussion, that persists and must be cleared up, would be the one found at Joel 2:28-32 which says:
"And after that it must occur that I shall pour out my spirit on every sort of flesh, and your sons and your daughters will certainly prophesy. As for your old men, dreams they will dream. As for your young men, visions they will see. And even on the menservants and on the maidservants in those days I shall pour out my spirit."
"And I will give portents in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun itself will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah. And it must occur that everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will get away safe; for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will prove to be the escaped ones, just as Jehovah has said, and in among the survivors, whom Jehovah is calling."
Now here is a simple thought. The Watchtower Society does not believe in the "gifts of the spirit" being given to men/women in our day. These miraculous "gifts", specifically speaking. They say they have "ceased" and have been "done away with", based upon 1 Corinthians 13:8.
And yet, they do believe the "great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah" is fast approaching, as shown in Joel 2:28-32. It is a future event, but has not come yet. But Joel's prophecy said that before the great "day of Jehovah", God would "pour out his spirit on every sort of flesh" and daughters will "prophesy", old men will "dream dreams", young men will see "visions," and so on. These are miraculous "gifts" of the spirit.
So, if this is the promise of Almighty God to do this, BEFORE the great day of His, and we think that this is clearly a future event, then why are JWs teaching that these "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" and been "done away with"?
Even if the "gifts" of the spirit did "cease" one day, still we could not make such a proclamation to the public until, only AFTER the great "day of Jehovah," had come, right? And certainly not before that "day", I would think.
And yet, that is what we as Jehovah's Witnesses actually teach, namely the "gifts of the spirit" all have "ceased," and have been "done away with", but the great "day of Jehovah" still has not come. This is not a logical conclusion to reach. An certainly one that we should NOT be comfortable in teaching people in our public ministry.
But again, someone may ask the following questions:
The question is: In the Christian congregation, who has organizational authority and who has interpretational authority? Are they delegated to a central governing body? Are there differences between one and the other? Does those having organizational authority also have interpretational authority?
And finally: How does our system of worship as "Jehovah's Witnesses" compare to that which is evident in the Bible when it comes to these two aspects of the Christian congregation?
These are excellent questions that we really need to ponder. First of all, if we are thinking of the first century congregation, we would have to say authority/interpretational authority was ranked in order or patterned for us. For example 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 says,
"And God has set the respective ones in the congregation, first, apostles; second, prophets; third, teachers; then powerful works; then gifts of healing; helpful services, abilities to direct, different tongues. Not all are apostles, are they? Not all are prophets, are they? Not all are teachers, are they? Not all perform powerful works, do they? Not all have gifts of healings, do they? Not all speak in tongues, do they? Not all are translators, are they? But keep zealously seeking the greater gifts. And yet I show you a surpassing way."
Clearly from the above we see, the highest level of authority within the first century Christian congregation fell in the hands of the "apostles" of Christ. They were the chief interpreters for the congregation, so far as scripture goes. Next in order, it mentions "prophets", like a certain one named "Agabus" who indicated to the congregation that a great famine was to come upon the earth. In other words, he foretold the future for the congregation. (Acts 11:27, 28)
And so on and so forth, as the rank system is indicated above.
One outstanding thing we have to note, particularly when we talk about interpreting the scripture, in the first century this particular activity was considered a "gift" of the spirit. Yes, a supernatural activity — this ability to correctly interpret INSPIRED UTTERANCES, such as God's Word. Let's notice this important and key point being made below:
"For there are varieties of gifts, but there is the same spirit; and there are varieties of ministries, and yet there is the same Lord; and there are varieties of operations, and yet it is the same God who performs all the operations in all persons...For example, to one there is given through the spirit speech of wisdom, to another speech of knowledge according to the same spirit..to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..." - 1 Corinthians 12:4-10
Since God's Word is inspired, and since ONLY Jehovah can correctly INTERPRET His own word, Jehovah supplied "gifts" of the spirit, to assist those of the first century congregation in gaining the correct understanding of scripture. We must realize that God's direct help is imperative, and absolutely necessary to receiving a correct interpretation and understanding of sacred scripture. In this way, we can say: All interpretations of Scripture Belong to God. (See Genesis 40:8)
In our modern day setting, among Jehovah's Witnesses, the congregation structure is not based upon that fact. Authority and interpretation of scripture is based upon hind sight, "trial and error," lots of guess work and calculated estimations. Divine Inspiration has been ruled out as a possible solution.
But we must ask: could current congregational problems possibly be rooted in not observing the above scriptural thought? Must we recognize the fact that the key essential "gift" of the spirit that must be present within the congregational setting to give correct guidance to the congregation is:
"...DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..." - 1 Corinthians 12:10
We recall, the Watchtower Society teaches Jehovah Witnesses as a organization that Almighty God DOES NOT inspire individuals in our modern day times to interpret scripture. (For a full discussion of the subject of Godly "Inspiration" and its place in our day and time, please see the link below.) Therefore the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses works upon the premise that the "the [Divine] light gets brighter" on a gradual basis, as time goes on. But we must ask ourselves, is this a correct viewpoint, namely that God does not INSPIRE individuals in our modern day setting? More importantly, is this a scriptural viewpoint?
See Link: Godly Inspiration - Can We Identify It Today?
THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT CONSIDERED
1 Corinthians 12:10 speaks of "Gifts of the Spirit" that have to be consider INSPIRED activity from God. It says:
"to yet another operations of powerful works, to another prophesying, to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES..."
Statement of Fact: In considering the above bible text, those that are blessed with a "Gift of the Spirit" would have to be considered inspired of God. Isn't that true?
Therefore, if interpretation of scripture is clearly shown to be a Special "Gift of the spirit" from God, then why do we (Jehovah's witnesses & ex-Jehovah's witnesses) insist otherwise? Why do we do this?
Think about it!
In other words, why do we UNINSPIRED people, continue to attempt to interpret Holy Scripture (inspired utterances) ... when God's Word makes it clear you can't do it, without his INSPIRED help.
After experiencing over 120 years of FAILED bible interpretations on the part of the Watchtower Society, haven't we had enough of the disasterous results from this kind of activity, to reach that humble conclusion?
Actually, we are very familiar with what is commonly retorted when asked about why Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe that the "gifts" of the spirit are present today. When asked this question, they immediately refer one to 1 Corinthians 13:8 as proof that the "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" today. But is that what the bible account is actually saying, I ask?
Let's consider it together.
"Love never fails. But whether there are [gifts of] prophesying, they will be done away with..."
Did you notice above, the words "gifts of" are in brackets within the New World Translation, published by the Watchtower Society? [Recent note: Newest New World Translation released the year of 2013 has removed the brackets around these words altogether...I wonder why?] That's because they are INSERTED WORDS by the translator, to enhance meaning. So the verse really, really, really didn't actually say "gifts" would be "done away with" or "cease," did it? Only, the Watchtower Society did. Think about it.
But let's continue:
"...whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we have partial knowledge and we prophesy partially but WHEN THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES, that which is partial will be done away with." - 1 Corinthians 13:8-10
Clearly, the emphasis is upon "that which is partial," — partial as in "partial prophesying", "partial knowledge" and so on. Meaning, the first century congregation actually had a "partial" knowledge and a "partial" understanding of scripture. They even "prophesied" partially, as Paul said above. What this means is that:
- Their permitted understanding of God's Overall Grander Purposes was, yes, "PARTIAL", or limited. This was God's Will for them. Thus, this would invariably mean the great "Mystery of God", would continue or persist, as John realized when he got the vision of Revelation and was shown this. (Revelation 10:7)
The Great Mystery of God...would persist...among Christians...until the "last days."
But nevertheless, Paul did remind the first century brothers that "partial knowledge" would not always continue and that one day, Jesus' disciples would finally understand the fuller and grander purposes of Jehovah, in a "COMPLETE" sense. As when "THAT WHICH IS COMPLETE ARRIVES". So, when "that which is COMPLETE [as opposed to "partial"] should arrive, namely the "Spirit of the Truth" that Jesus spoke about at John 16:13-15, then that which is "partial", yes their PARTIAL UNDERSTANDING, their PARTIAL PROPHESYING (where prophecies were confined to a first century application only) would be finally, by Almighty God's permission, be DONE AWAY WITH or discarded. "Done away with" or simply discarded as being of no use anymore. To be viewed as totally obsolete and irrelevant as to modem day application of prophecy to the congregation, and events thereof.
Therefore, the first century congregation were instructed to fully expect the discarding of "partial" things, so that when "that which is complete" was to arrive on the earthly scene, past "understandings" and explanations of scripture, would by God's permission, "BE DONE AWAY" with, thus leaving modern day disciples of Christ with a fuller, comprehensive understanding of God's Sacred Word. This explains why the book of Revelation points forward to the future wherein "new scrolls" would be opened for mankind's edification and enlightenment, and the old "partial" understandings of scripture and prophecy, would by necessity, and understandably so, BE DISCARDED to make way for "that which is complete" in UNDERSTANDING. Yes the "Spirit of the Truth." (Rev. 20:12)
To prove this is exactly what Paul was referring to he went on to say next:
"When I was a babe, I used to speak as a babe, to think as a babe, to reason as a babe; but now that I have become a man, I have done away with the traits of a babe. For at present we see in hazy outline [Lit., "in obscure _expression." NWT ftn] by means of a metal mirror, but then it will be face to face. At present I know PARTIALLY [Or, "I am taking in partial knowledge" NWT ftn], but then I shall know accurately even as I am accurately known." — 1 Corinthians 13:11, 12
Paul revealed first century Christians actually had an "obscure", "hazy" unclear viewpoint of God's Overall Purposes. They only saw God's Grander Purposes, in a "hazy outline" fashion. So, the picture they had of God's Word was not quite so distinct, and clear as Paul admitted.
And believe it or not, even now that "indistinct", "hazy", "obscure" vision of the scripture persists...even down to our day. Why? Again, it is because God's Will dictates it to be so until the advent of the "Spirit of the Truth," or "that which is COMPLETE" should "arrive."
So then when we really think about it, actually what was promised to "cease", was not the "gifts" of the spirit necessarily, as the Watchtower Society teaches, no but what was promised to "cease" or be "done away with" was the PARTIAL or INCOMPLETE UNDERSTANDING of God's Prophetic Word found in the GREEK TEXT. Yes, the Greek Scriptures themselves or explanations thereof found in them, Paul actually showed was to be REPLACED one day, with a fuller, more complete understanding of God's purposes, wherein the Greater "Mystery of God" would finally be "finished," as Revelation 10:7 said.
And additionally we are told, exactly WHEN the "partial" aspects of their understanding was to be replaced...when?
Again, exactly when "that which is COMPLETE arrives," the promised "Spirit of The Truth" that Jehovah and Jesus would "send" to mankind to "guide them into ALL truth" and "declare the things coming" or the future to them. Where they would get the COMPLETE picture and understanding of things from God's Sacred Word. - 1 Cor. 13:10; John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13-15
Even today, if one would insist that the "gifts" of the spirit have already "ceased" and are no more present among the Christian congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, then we can still ask relative to that thought: Has "that which is COMPLETE arrived" yet?
And if the Watchtower Society's answer is yes, and they must believe "that which is complete" has arrived (as they do of course), then we must reason the Watchtower Society should have then, a COMPLETE and composite understanding of scripture, including that of all bible prophecy and the book of Revelation. And of course, they believe that too. But, most of us know for a certainty, that is NOT the case at all. So then if we believe that, we cannot say:
"That which is COMPLETE" then, "has arrived," can we?
And if we cannot say that, namely "that which is complete has arrived," then we cannot say for a certainty, that the "gifts" of the spirit have "ceased" either. Think about it.
Article written by: Donald C. Burney
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Review Questions For The Article: When "That Which Is Complete Arrives" (1 Cor. 13:10)
1. What hidden Divine Disclosure did Paul make as recorded at 1 Corinthians 13:8-10?
2. What is the official position of the Watchtower Society on when "that which is complete" will arrive?
3. Why is the year, 1914, not a good indicator of when understanding of Bible prophecy began increasing, and WTS’ continuing use of this date indicates that they lack what?
4. What does the Greek word "ainigmati" mean and what was Paul indicating when he used it at 1 Corinthians 13:12?
5. Jehovah’s superior wisdom is highlighted in the way that He allowed only a partial understanding of prophecy in the first century. What major prophecy, recorded in the first Bible book, has He withheld understanding of even up to our day that play a crucial role in the mystery of God being finished? (Revelation 10:7)
6. How does Revelation 5:1-4 demonstrate how Jehovah keeps humans from understanding prophecies that He does not want them to?
7. How is the one person worthy "to open these seals" identified at John 14:26, 15:26 and Isaiah 42:1, 6?
8. Understanding of the many "mysteries" of God found in the Bible is still hidden from all of mankind today. How does 2 Corinthians 12:4 describe these mysteries and why are they so designated?
9. Who will authorize the speaking of these "unlawful words" to mankind, by whom will they be spoken and to what purpose?
10. According to Joel 2:28-32, what event is yet to occur that brings into question what is taught by the Watchtower Society concerning whether the "gifts of the spirit" have ceased in our day?
11. In the first century was all authority invested in a few men who all had equal powers?
12. In order for a person to correctly interpret God’s inspired word, what will he need to possess? Why is this a reasonable expectation?
13. Since the Watchtower Society teaches that the "gifts of the spirit" ceased in the first century and therefore do not claim inspiration when they interpret the scriptures, how would you say that they arrive at their understanding of the Bible?
14. The Watchtower Society uses 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 to support their view that the "gifts of the spirit" ceased in the first century. But when these verses are given a closer look, what do we learn that the Apostle Paul had reference to that was going to be done away with?
15. Why did Jehovah allow this hazy, indistinct and obscure understanding of prophecy found in the Greek text to persist down to our day?
16. If the Watchtower Society teaches that "that which is complete" has already arrived, then what can we expect of their understanding of prophecy? Upon examining their doctrine do we find this to be true in their case? Therefore what conclusion must we draw?
(End of Part 2)
To get the answers for the review questions
CLICK HERE.
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"He that is from God listens to the sayings of God..." -- John 8:47
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Re: Is "Cessationism" A Correct Bible Understanding & Teaching . . . What Do You Say?
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(Part 3 continued)
Baptimal Questions for all prospective Jehovah's Witnesses, 1985:
Question #2 -- Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization? -- See June 1st, 1985 Watchtower Magazine page 30, par. 3, 4.
Do you personally remember this particular question being presented to all prospective baptismal candidates at the conventions of Jehovah's Witnesses? Yes, at the posting of this written material you are reading, yes it was exactly 40 years ago!
As mentioned above, Jehovah's Witnesses have been taught (by the Watchtower Society) a special "word" for what they claim to be. Now please remember this special word. It is called being "SPIRIT DIRECTED" but not "inspired" of God...Remember? So then, we informed Jehovah's Witnesses cleverly say we are a "spirit-directed" people. The "anointed" are "spirit-directed." Yes, the organization is "spirit-directed" -- but not, inspired. But really, what's the difference? Why not give that some thought, ... please? Really, what's the difference, I ask.
Think about it.
Isn't it true, that in the first century, God gave "gifts of the spirit" to the "anointed" of that time? And, isn’t it also true that among those "gifts" from God was the "ability to discern prophetic utterances" or "inspired utterances?"
1 Corinthians 12:10 New World Translation lists some of these "Gifts" from God by saying:
"...to yet another operations of powerful works, to another prophesying, to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES [like prophecies, book of Revelation, etc.]..."
So this means that since the words of a prophet are inspired, in themselves, then logically in order for one to be able to "discern" what they mean and "pronounce" them, "interpret" them to you or explain them to you, that person would also HAVE TO BE INSPIRED. That's what that verse means. So when Peter quoted from the book of Joel and explained the inspired words of the prophet Joel, recorded at Joel 2:28-32, he could do so simply because he was "inspired" of God. -- Acts 2:16-21
So, if the Watchtower Society admits that they are NOT "inspired," then you know automatically their explanation of the prophecy will be in error. And why?
Again, because no ordinary human, without Divine Help, without "spirit-direction" even, CAN EXPLAIN INSPIRED WRITINGS. No, they cannot. No, we can't "discern inspired utterances" of the prophets WITHOUT being "inspired." That would simply be impossible. And that is because "discernment" of Divine Prophecy is a "gift" of the spirit, just as it was in the first century. And it is no different in our day and time.
And further, if the Watchtower Society or anyone else claims they can correctly interpret the DIVINELY INSPIRED Words of God WITHOUT being inspired...he is a LIAR, a DECEIVER of the mind, plain and simple. God's Word does not lie. And the bible makes it plain, this is a "gift" of the spirit, this ability to properly "discern inspired utterances." So, we must learn something here. Yes, the unique ability to "discern inspired utterances," then, is truly a "gift" of the spirit, a "gift" of God...so the bible says. Think about it. -- See 1 Corinthians 12:10.
Here is a simple way to illustrate this problem. Take for example this particular prophecy recorded at Jeremiah 23:19, 20.
Jeremiah 23:19, 20 says:
"Look! The windstorm of Jehovah, rage itself, will certainly go forth, even a whirling tempest. Upon the head of the wicked ones it will whirl itself. The anger of Jehovah will not turn back until he will have carried out and until he will have made the ideas of his heart come true. In the final part of the days you people will give your consideration to it with UNDERSTANDING." -- see also Jeremiah 30:23, 24
Doesn't this prophecy clearly show the undeniable fact that God's People, presumably Jehovah's Witnesses, will receive severe discipline from God in the "final part of the days"? Yes, it does. But isn't it true that this particular prophecy ALSO SAYS that they, those disciplined by God, WILL NOT have true "understanding" of it, until AFTER, after the discipline is over? Doesn't it clearly say this? Did you notice this point?
Therefore, according to what is mentioned here, God's People will NOT possess true "understanding" of God's Discipline upon themselves until AFTER they have gone thru the experience. Does anyone else see this? Therefore, if this is the case, this raises a question to ponder seriously: How can we say that we, as members of God's Household, as God's People ourselves, have a true "understanding" of the events of God's Coming Discipline upon His Own People without being forced to admit that we, ourselves are genuine "prophets" of God --inspired prophets of God? How can do this? How did we get this special "insight" or "power of discernment?" How? How can we know these things, know these "details", without God's Spirit being "active" upon us as an individual or a group of individuals -- How can this be?
Isn't it true that Amos 3:7 said:
"For the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has REVEALED HIS CONFIDENTIAL MATTER to his servants the prophets."
And what could be more "confidential" than what Jehovah is going to do to his Own People? What could more "confidential" than that; His "strange" and "unusual work" of destruction upon them, I ask? (Isaiah 28:21) In the context of the verses in question, it speaks of God's "Intimate Group" in whom he discloses or reveals His "confidential matters" so that "they would have made my people hear my own words, and they would have caused them to turn back from their bad way and from the badness of their dealings. (See Jeremiah 23:18, 22.)
As we think back, we remember that the Watchtower Society didn't want to take the title of being an "inspired" prophet because they knew that title brings responsibility. To be considered "inspired," carrying a message from God, would mean they couldn't keep making changes to their teaching and saying, "the light is getting brighter," when, in fact, it wasn't. At least not in their particular case. (Proverbs 4:18) So they teach they are not "inspired" prophets so that if anything were to go wrong with their predictions, as it often does, they could merely claim they never said they were "inspired" prophets in the first place. They could claim:
"I am no prophet. I am a man cultivating the soil..." (See Zechariah 13:4-6.)
But we know that anyone that accurately speaks of future, major events that actually come true, then yes, this is an "inspired" true prophet of God. Because no one knows the future except God himself, isn't that true? And since that is the case, of course, God would have to get involved in such a situation. Yes, Jehovah Himself would have to "actively" and miraculously "reveal" this to His prophet who would then know details about the future and certain details about what God was going to do, by way of disciplining his people. The "inspired" prophet of God would then know the "details" of the situation. It would be just as Acts 13:41 says:
"Behold it, you scorners, and wonder at it, and vanish away, because I am working a work in your days, a work that you will by no means believe even if anyone relates it to you in detail."
And when we look for the evidence of Divine Inspiration in a person, we look for certain "details" that they possess, "details" that could only, only come from God Himself. And this would be a solid, scriptural position to take this would prove the person in question is someone that knows the "details" of the future. This person, yes, knows the future and thus is a true representative of Jehovah God. Just as John the Baptist, the greatest inspired prophet up to Jesus, was a true "representative" of Jehovah. -- Matthew 11:11; John 1:6
So when someone is speaking about the future (like attempting to explain the cryptic contents of the book of Revelation for instance) and about the coming discipline upon God's people, these events are surely God's "confidential matters" that only his "servants the prophets" know about, isn't this true? Thus, when the Watchtower Society or some other Jehovah's Witnesses should speak of such things, it would be entirely appropriate to refer to such a person as a presumed "inspired" or "spirit-directed" (which means the same thing) prophet of God. Yes, when they openly speak of such things, yes, they are claiming "inspiration" from God! Simple. -- Amos 3:7
Jesus said this at John 16:13 about the future activity of the "Spirit of Truth," in our last days by saying:
"However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak of his own impulse, but what things he hears he will speak, and HE WILL DECLARE TO YOU THE THINGS COMING."
Yes, Jesus made plain that the coming "spirit of truth" would do two primary things for us in the last days. It would:
(1) lead us into ALL TRUTH, completely. It would act as a "guide" to do this for us. And it would,
(2) declare "THE THINGS COMING," as in declare to us the grand events of the future (like the book of Revelation).
Simple.
No question, this is the mark of true "inspiration" -- these two things, that can only come from God Almighty. Therefore, in the aforementioned discussion, we must then reach one unavoidable conclusion about whether Godly "Inspiration" actually exists today. We have come to know this: When one speaks of great events of the future (such as foolishly attempting to explain the book of Revelation), when a person or group of persons (like the Watchtower Society using human intelligence only) attempt to do this, then this can only mean one of two things as regards the one who speaks of the future using God's Sacred Word:
1) Either God "Reveals" things, "confidential matters," to this person [or group], which makes this person or group of persons "inspired" prophets of God. Or,
2) The person [or group] is speaking and teaching things that are NOT from God, and is thus completely wrong. Additionally, this means that what they teach and say does not reflect "true understanding" about God or His Will concerning the coming discipline from God upon His People. (Daniel 12:4; Isaiah 30:26; Micah 4:6, 7)
And of course, using the close to 150-year record of the Watchtower Society and its associate "anointed" supporters, AKA the so-called "Faithful and Discreet Slave" Class, yes, we know that the latter is true of them.
Think about it.
Article written by: Donald C. Burney
(End of Part 3)
***
(Part 3 continued)
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING "SPIRITED-DIRECTED" AND BEING "INSPIRED"?
Baptimal Questions for all prospective Jehovah's Witnesses, 1985:
Question #2 -- Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization? -- See June 1st, 1985 Watchtower Magazine page 30, par. 3, 4.
Do you personally remember this particular question being presented to all prospective baptismal candidates at the conventions of Jehovah's Witnesses? Yes, at the posting of this written material you are reading, yes it was exactly 40 years ago!
As mentioned above, Jehovah's Witnesses have been taught (by the Watchtower Society) a special "word" for what they claim to be. Now please remember this special word. It is called being "SPIRIT DIRECTED" but not "inspired" of God...Remember? So then, we informed Jehovah's Witnesses cleverly say we are a "spirit-directed" people. The "anointed" are "spirit-directed." Yes, the organization is "spirit-directed" -- but not, inspired. But really, what's the difference? Why not give that some thought, ... please? Really, what's the difference, I ask.
Think about it.
Isn't it true, that in the first century, God gave "gifts of the spirit" to the "anointed" of that time? And, isn’t it also true that among those "gifts" from God was the "ability to discern prophetic utterances" or "inspired utterances?"
1 Corinthians 12:10 New World Translation lists some of these "Gifts" from God by saying:
"...to yet another operations of powerful works, to another prophesying, to another DISCERNMENT OF INSPIRED UTTERANCES [like prophecies, book of Revelation, etc.]..."
So this means that since the words of a prophet are inspired, in themselves, then logically in order for one to be able to "discern" what they mean and "pronounce" them, "interpret" them to you or explain them to you, that person would also HAVE TO BE INSPIRED. That's what that verse means. So when Peter quoted from the book of Joel and explained the inspired words of the prophet Joel, recorded at Joel 2:28-32, he could do so simply because he was "inspired" of God. -- Acts 2:16-21
So, if the Watchtower Society admits that they are NOT "inspired," then you know automatically their explanation of the prophecy will be in error. And why?
Again, because no ordinary human, without Divine Help, without "spirit-direction" even, CAN EXPLAIN INSPIRED WRITINGS. No, they cannot. No, we can't "discern inspired utterances" of the prophets WITHOUT being "inspired." That would simply be impossible. And that is because "discernment" of Divine Prophecy is a "gift" of the spirit, just as it was in the first century. And it is no different in our day and time.
And further, if the Watchtower Society or anyone else claims they can correctly interpret the DIVINELY INSPIRED Words of God WITHOUT being inspired...he is a LIAR, a DECEIVER of the mind, plain and simple. God's Word does not lie. And the bible makes it plain, this is a "gift" of the spirit, this ability to properly "discern inspired utterances." So, we must learn something here. Yes, the unique ability to "discern inspired utterances," then, is truly a "gift" of the spirit, a "gift" of God...so the bible says. Think about it. -- See 1 Corinthians 12:10.
A SIMPLE ILLUSTRATION TO EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM
Here is a simple way to illustrate this problem. Take for example this particular prophecy recorded at Jeremiah 23:19, 20.
Jeremiah 23:19, 20 says:
"Look! The windstorm of Jehovah, rage itself, will certainly go forth, even a whirling tempest. Upon the head of the wicked ones it will whirl itself. The anger of Jehovah will not turn back until he will have carried out and until he will have made the ideas of his heart come true. In the final part of the days you people will give your consideration to it with UNDERSTANDING." -- see also Jeremiah 30:23, 24
Doesn't this prophecy clearly show the undeniable fact that God's People, presumably Jehovah's Witnesses, will receive severe discipline from God in the "final part of the days"? Yes, it does. But isn't it true that this particular prophecy ALSO SAYS that they, those disciplined by God, WILL NOT have true "understanding" of it, until AFTER, after the discipline is over? Doesn't it clearly say this? Did you notice this point?
Therefore, according to what is mentioned here, God's People will NOT possess true "understanding" of God's Discipline upon themselves until AFTER they have gone thru the experience. Does anyone else see this? Therefore, if this is the case, this raises a question to ponder seriously: How can we say that we, as members of God's Household, as God's People ourselves, have a true "understanding" of the events of God's Coming Discipline upon His Own People without being forced to admit that we, ourselves are genuine "prophets" of God --inspired prophets of God? How can do this? How did we get this special "insight" or "power of discernment?" How? How can we know these things, know these "details", without God's Spirit being "active" upon us as an individual or a group of individuals -- How can this be?
Isn't it true that Amos 3:7 said:
"For the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has REVEALED HIS CONFIDENTIAL MATTER to his servants the prophets."
And what could be more "confidential" than what Jehovah is going to do to his Own People? What could more "confidential" than that; His "strange" and "unusual work" of destruction upon them, I ask? (Isaiah 28:21) In the context of the verses in question, it speaks of God's "Intimate Group" in whom he discloses or reveals His "confidential matters" so that "they would have made my people hear my own words, and they would have caused them to turn back from their bad way and from the badness of their dealings. (See Jeremiah 23:18, 22.)
As we think back, we remember that the Watchtower Society didn't want to take the title of being an "inspired" prophet because they knew that title brings responsibility. To be considered "inspired," carrying a message from God, would mean they couldn't keep making changes to their teaching and saying, "the light is getting brighter," when, in fact, it wasn't. At least not in their particular case. (Proverbs 4:18) So they teach they are not "inspired" prophets so that if anything were to go wrong with their predictions, as it often does, they could merely claim they never said they were "inspired" prophets in the first place. They could claim:
"I am no prophet. I am a man cultivating the soil..." (See Zechariah 13:4-6.)
But we know that anyone that accurately speaks of future, major events that actually come true, then yes, this is an "inspired" true prophet of God. Because no one knows the future except God himself, isn't that true? And since that is the case, of course, God would have to get involved in such a situation. Yes, Jehovah Himself would have to "actively" and miraculously "reveal" this to His prophet who would then know details about the future and certain details about what God was going to do, by way of disciplining his people. The "inspired" prophet of God would then know the "details" of the situation. It would be just as Acts 13:41 says:
"Behold it, you scorners, and wonder at it, and vanish away, because I am working a work in your days, a work that you will by no means believe even if anyone relates it to you in detail."
And when we look for the evidence of Divine Inspiration in a person, we look for certain "details" that they possess, "details" that could only, only come from God Himself. And this would be a solid, scriptural position to take this would prove the person in question is someone that knows the "details" of the future. This person, yes, knows the future and thus is a true representative of Jehovah God. Just as John the Baptist, the greatest inspired prophet up to Jesus, was a true "representative" of Jehovah. -- Matthew 11:11; John 1:6
So when someone is speaking about the future (like attempting to explain the cryptic contents of the book of Revelation for instance) and about the coming discipline upon God's people, these events are surely God's "confidential matters" that only his "servants the prophets" know about, isn't this true? Thus, when the Watchtower Society or some other Jehovah's Witnesses should speak of such things, it would be entirely appropriate to refer to such a person as a presumed "inspired" or "spirit-directed" (which means the same thing) prophet of God. Yes, when they openly speak of such things, yes, they are claiming "inspiration" from God! Simple. -- Amos 3:7
WHAT ALL OF THE ABOVE MEANS AS REGARDS IDENTIFYING TRUE "INSPIRATION" IN OUR DAY & TIME
Jesus said this at John 16:13 about the future activity of the "Spirit of Truth," in our last days by saying:
"However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak of his own impulse, but what things he hears he will speak, and HE WILL DECLARE TO YOU THE THINGS COMING."
Yes, Jesus made plain that the coming "spirit of truth" would do two primary things for us in the last days. It would:
(1) lead us into ALL TRUTH, completely. It would act as a "guide" to do this for us. And it would,
(2) declare "THE THINGS COMING," as in declare to us the grand events of the future (like the book of Revelation).
Simple.
No question, this is the mark of true "inspiration" -- these two things, that can only come from God Almighty. Therefore, in the aforementioned discussion, we must then reach one unavoidable conclusion about whether Godly "Inspiration" actually exists today. We have come to know this: When one speaks of great events of the future (such as foolishly attempting to explain the book of Revelation), when a person or group of persons (like the Watchtower Society using human intelligence only) attempt to do this, then this can only mean one of two things as regards the one who speaks of the future using God's Sacred Word:
1) Either God "Reveals" things, "confidential matters," to this person [or group], which makes this person or group of persons "inspired" prophets of God. Or,
2) The person [or group] is speaking and teaching things that are NOT from God, and is thus completely wrong. Additionally, this means that what they teach and say does not reflect "true understanding" about God or His Will concerning the coming discipline from God upon His People. (Daniel 12:4; Isaiah 30:26; Micah 4:6, 7)
And of course, using the close to 150-year record of the Watchtower Society and its associate "anointed" supporters, AKA the so-called "Faithful and Discreet Slave" Class, yes, we know that the latter is true of them.
Think about it.
Article written by: Donald C. Burney
(End of Part 3)
***
"He that is from God listens to the sayings of God..." -- John 8:47