A mistake is in presuming that the Little Flock of 144,000 are the only ones who will receive a heavenly reward. The Anointed can be broken down into two classes after death: 1) the 144,000 and 2) those who fall short of the 144,000, but who are not going into second death.
We believe this second class is the same as the Great Crowd of Rev. 7. Notice the scriptural evidence for this second class.
1 Cor 9:24 – “Do YOU not know that the runners in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that YOU may attain it.” NWT
A Full Reward:
Building on our Foundation:
“11 ¶ For no man can lay any other foundation than what is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood materials, hay, stubble, 13 each one’s work will become manifest, for the day will show it up, because it will be revealed by means of fire; and the fire itself will prove what sort of work each one’s is. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward; 15 if anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved; yet, if so, it will be as through fire.” (1Co 3:11-15 NWT_)
This passage describes two classes, both of whom build their foundation in Christ (vs 11). The Little Flock are the ones described as building with gold, silver and precious stones (vs 12). They will be rewarded (vs 14). The second group of the anointed build with wood, hay and stubble (vs 12). They will be saved through fire (trials, great tribulation)(vs 15)
The gold, silver and precious stones are the Christ-like character qualities developed (i.e. the fruits of the spirit). The wood, hay and stubble are the deficient character qualities of this anointed group which disqualify them from the 144,000 office of priests and kings (Rev 20:6). However, these are not going into second death. As verse 15 says, they will be “saved.” This is the Great Crowd of Rev 7. They come out of great tribulation, which for some is that tribulation in coming out of Armageddon and for others the personal tribulation they experience in their life before dying, which Jehovah permits to help them wash the spots (sins) off of their robes (Rev 7:14)
Discreet and Foolish Virgins:
“1 ¶ “Then the kingdom of the heavens will become like ten virgins that took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish, and five were discreet.” (Mt 25:1-2 NWT)
In the New Testament, the word “virgins” applies to Anointed Christians (11 Cor 11:2; Rev 14:3,4) The foolish did not have much oil in their lamps (vs 8 ) and none extra in their receptacles. Both oil and anointing with oil are associated with the holy spirit (Acts 10:38; 2 Cor 1:21, 22; 1 John 2:27). The lesson is that some of the Anointed are not filled with the Holy Spirit. They lack in zeal and the fruits of the spirit. The solution was to have been developing the fruits of the spirit in their lives, depicted by purchasing the oil (acquiring the Christ-like character by suffering for righteousness). The door was shut by the time the foolish virgins arrived (vs. 10), demonstrating that putting off serving the Lord and developing the fruits of the spirit will result in loss of the crown (Rev 3:11), however there is no statement to indicate that the foolish virgins go into second death, but simply that they lose the opportunity to enter the marriage feast.
Called, Chosen and Faithful
“These will battle with the Lamb, but, because he is Lord of lords and King of kings, the Lamb will conquer them. Also, those called and chosen and faithful with him will do so.”” (Re 17:14 NWT_)
The called, chosen and faithful represent three progressive conditions. Those that are called are invited to the marriage (Matt 22:3,14). Those that are chosen have accepted the invitation and were chosen to be anointed (1 Peter 1:1,2) with the holy spirit. Those that are faithful unto death will receive the crown of life (Rev 2:10), the divine nature. This final group is the 144,000.
Just as not all who are called are chosen, so also, not all who are chosen to be Anointed, receive the crown of life (the Divine Nature). This group that is not totally faithful unto death are the same as previously mentioned in 1 Cor 3:10-15 who do not receive the reward, but are saved by fire. They are the Great Crowd of Rev 7 who serve before the throne and were pictured by the Levites who served in the tabernacle. They are mentioned in Psa 45:14 as the virgins, the brides companions in the Kings palace. These same bride’s companions are the Great Crowd of Rev 19:6 who in verse 7 are at the marriage supper (in heaven) rejoicing.
hi Bro Max please shows us what Rutherford said on page 204 of volume 3. also notice this group where unfaithful. according to the jws did the great crowd appear on earth after 1935 and automatically get labeled unfaithful.? it seems to me that it would make more sense if this group was gathered through out the century just like the 144000 Bro humbleman
To Humbleman;
Ezekiel 44 is discussed in book III starting on page 258 -282. Will look for 11-14. Page 266 VOL III,With reference to the great crowd,”They receive life because of their finally keeping their integrity under the great and final test.”
267,”Before leaving the earth they will praise God at his gates.” Ez 44:11-14 Any interested should read now.
267,”They were not admitted to the inner court, but the farthest they would go would be the “porch.” “They minister unto the people, but that cannot becompared with the priviledge of ministering to Jehovah.” 267,”This is indicated by the fact that the Levites picturing the”great multitude”, “slay the burnt offering” before turning the same over to the priest.” “The great multitude was foreshawdowed by the scapegoat.” Ez 44:12,13, shows the following. 268,”They cannot be recipients of the divine nature at the resurrection. They will be glad for any place where they may live forever in happiness.” 269,”Rev.7:17
When cleansed the “great multitude” will be graciously given a place of service before the royal house.” Ez 44:14 Numbers 18:2-4 This proves that the “great multitude” will be subordinate to the royal family of God, serving before the throne.” -Rev. 7:15
That covers your missing verses as it not goes to Zadok, in reference to the royal priesthood.
Take care
To Humbleman;
So I don’t confuse people here. My last post to Phillip was a part from Pastor’s last book Vol VI. Now he and others may only want his teachings up to the Pastor’s death. 10-31-1916. Others may want some or none of his teachings, while others will consider Rutherfords,all or only so many years. Why is that? During the Pastor’s time right from the get go, people left, sometimes in a large groups. Likewise after his death, during and after Rutherford people left.
From your post You may be one who accepts some of Rutherfords teachings. But wanted others to know it is not directed at them.
In the three books, VINDICATION,I,II,AND III only in the back of III does it give a reference check, but it does for all three.
The purpose is in preface of I,”fulfilment is upon “Christendom” and other nations now of the world.” “It announces God’s judgements” “message of comfort and encouragement to the faithful followers of Christ Jesus who are now on the earth.” Jehovah God will prove,exonerate and vindicate his word and holy name.” It ends preface with,”Read it and profit thereby.” “THE PUBLISHER”
Going to send this so I can reread yours.
sounds good Bro Max much christian love and blessings to you and your family 🙂
To Humbleman;
I have those books and will try tomorrow but very busy day ahead and might have to make next week. Also will research the volumes, for I remember the Pastor saying they are still Levites, but don’t qualify for the priesthood.
Take care.
I feel these two groups are described in Ezekiel 44 the sons of Zadok representing the 144000 the other group representing the great multitude.
The Levites who went far from me when Israel went astray and who wandered from me after their idols must bear the consequences of their sin. 11They may serve in my sanctuary, having charge of the gates of the temple and serving in it; they may slaughter the burnt offerings and sacrifices for the people and stand before the people and serve them. 12But because they served them in the presence of their idols and made the house of Israel fall into sin, therefore I have sworn with uplifted hand that they must bear the consequences of their sin, declares the Sovereign Lord. 13They are not to come near to serve me as priests or come near any of my holy things or my most holy offerings; they must bear the shame of their detestable practices. 14Yet I will put them in charge of the duties of the temple and all the work that is to be done in it.
15“‘But the priests, who are Levites and descendants of Zadok and who faithfully carried out the duties of my sanctuary when the Israelites went astray from me, are to come near to minister before me; they are to stand before me to offer sacrifices of fat and blood, declares the Sovereign Lord. 16They alone are to enter my sanctuary; they alone are to come near my table to minister before me and perform my service.
Bro Max i did a search in the watchtower cd and was unable to find any information on verses 11-14 the last mention of them was in rutherford’s book vindication. please let me know what your search uncovers. Take care
The Pastor’s last book for BS.The New Creation page 93,”Neither is there a second call during this Gospel age, though, as we have previously seen, there is a second class of saved ones selected during this age- the Great Company (Rev. 7:9-14) “whose number no man knoweth, out of every nation and kindred and tongue,” who shall serve God in his temple and before the throne in contradisinction to the Bride, who will be in the throne and members, or living stones, of the temple. But these of this second company have no separate and distinct call. They might as easily, and with much more satisfaction, have attained to the glories of the divine nature had they rendered prompt and hearty obedience, They do come off victors in the end, as is shown by the fact that to them are granted the palm branches; but their lack of zeal hindered them from being accepted as of the overcoming class thuspreventing their eternal joint-heirship and glory as participants in the New Creation, as well as depriving them of much of the joy and peace and satisfaction which belongs to the overcomers and is enjoyed by them even in this present life. The place to which they will attain, as we have previously seen, will apparently be one similiar in many respects to the estate of plane of the angels.”
Thank you Max about the spiritual (not earthly) class of the great crowd.
Dear friends,I think that we have to be very careful here.Yes we run a race,yes the prize is the heavenly calling-but- Christs sacrifice is all inclusive.We can not add to it.We press on to the mark, and hope that we are found worthy.Otherwise its by works and as a member of the fallen race,alone we can not/will not make it.
Yours in Christ, phil murray.
Hello All,
It is a real joy to find people who love to discuss Scripture. I had tried many so-called bible believing churches,and most folks would rather discuss sports,politics,or whatever,after the services.I would feel dried up and hungry for Truth,so quit going for the most part;however,at times I feel the need of fellowship and go back.
At first when I started to read The Divine Plan,it was refreshing,but then I wondered whether the Bible Students were teaching the same as the JWs regarding only the 144,000 Anointed Ones being in Heaven. I think I am beginning to understand that the B.Students believe that many others will also be there,though not in a governing position with Christ,as the 144,000 will be.
This has been a great relief and blessing to me. Ever since I first understood the Gospel message of free Grace and Justification for all who believe in Christ and His Ransom Sacrifice,I have only had a desire to be with Him.I have no desire to be on a Paradise earth,although, if that is God’s will for me,then His will not mine be done.
I am new to interacting with B.S. brothers and sisters,so please tell me if I am not correct in my present understanding.
Again,let me say how wonderful it is “meet” others who love to discuss the things of God.I phoned in to Brother Peter K.s Conference call last evening and got to hear some good teaching and feedback.That too was a joy.
Yours in HIM,
Richard
Richard – Yes, Bible Students believe (and the early Watchtower taught) that there would also be a Great Crowd in heaven, but that if for you to prove from scripture for yourself. You will find more information showing that not everyone who is Anointed with the Holy Spirit will be part of the 144,000 by clicking here: Some of these will be part of a secondary spiritual class. You can consider evidence that the Great Crowd will be in heaven, as taught by the early Watchtower, by clicking here:
REVELATION 21……..THE NEW JERUSALEM. Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beatutifully dressed for her husband……v3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying “NOW THE DEWELLING OF GOD IS WITH MEN, AND HE WILL LIVE WITH THEM’