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For unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder.—Isaiah 9:6 One day, in the tiny village of Bethlehem, not far from the old site of the Garden of Eden, a descendant of mother Eve, a young woman named Mary, bears her firstborn son. Read more… Due to several amazing overruling providences, Brothers Todd Alexander and Benjamin Stein were able to distribute 1,512 Chinese Illustrated First Volumes (Divine Plan of the Ages) in Taipei Taiwan during a ten-day period that ended Sunday October 28th. The Volumes are very attractive and the illustrations ensured an unusually high acceptance rate among Chinese Christians Read more…
__ An Occultic Pyramidologist? This is an accusation that is not infrequently heard: Pastor Russell, by incorporating the measurements and lay out of the Great Pyramid in his teachings, was thereby guilty of occultic practices. Randall Watters asserts: “Among the most obvious of Read more… Death of Richard Raw from Barbara Anderson post: Richard and his wife Frances were very dear friends. Richard had a significant stroke last week and died in his sleep at home last Friday night. He will be sorely missed by his family and hundreds of friends. We know we’ll miss his phone calls. He had Read more… Bedfellows with Freemasons? The charge has been advanced that Pastor Russell and the Bible Students are connected With the Free masons and that both groups are to be condemned because they are occult in nature. The occult reference is used to describe both the secrecy aspect of their respective beliefs as well as the Read more… Table of Contents Will Israel Survive the End Times? Replacement Theology vs. God’s Promises Will Only 1/3 of Living Jews be Saved? Anti-Semitism–and the New Anti-Semitism Is there any Hope for Israel? Living in Messianic Times Promise to Abraham to Bless All A Chosen People–with Responsibility A New Covenant with Judah and Israel Read more… Brother Eric – Our prayers are with you as you are going through this very terrible trial. We pray for you and your family and want to encourage you in every emotional and spiritual way possible. We trust the Apostle Paul’s words, that “all things work together for good for those who love God and Read more… Click here to open the book: EXPANDED COMMENTS 1879-1916 New Cover This book is a compilation and summary of C.T. Russell’s comments on the whole Bible, verse by verse. You can purchase a hard copy by clicking here: In his ministry of some 37 years, from 1879 to 1916, the written material produced by Read more… This 400+ page book, written by a Bible Student author and a consummate researcher, C. Redeker, offers a thorough history of Pastor Charles Taze Russell and the Bible Student movement he founded. His doctrinal and prophetic views are presented. Contemporary Bible Student ministries are examined and their distinctions from the Jehovah Witnesses are explored through Read more… You can watch and listen to the video by clicking here: Video recording of “A God Who Hides Himself.” The Chicago Bible Students would like to invite you to a PowerPoint talk titled “A God Who Hides Himself.” In this presentation various questions that have perplexed mankind for generations will be considered. Why does Read more… The Greek word rendered “temple” (naos) in the phrase “worship him day and night in his temple” in Rev. 7:15 primarily refers to the Holy of Holies and not to the entire temple complex as the JW’s have mistakenly tried to prove. (See Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon at bottom of this article) Even the New World Read more… During the struggle between Judge Rutherford and the Bible Students, William Schnell was in the upper echelon of the Watch Tower and made very insightful observations. At the time he finally wrote his book, THIRTY YEARS A WATCHTOWER SLAVE, he was neither a Jehovah’s Witness nor a Bible Student. Schnell noted that further doctrinal changes Read more… BACKGROUND Destruction of the temple Matt 24:1 Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon Read more… Meet and get to know other Former Bible Students, JWs and others who are seeking an outlet for freedom of expression Facebook – Friends of Jehovah’s Witnesses Facebook – Christian Questions Radio Facebook – Chicago Bible Students Facebook – Charles Taze Russell for Truth – administered by Ronald Day In 1984, Harrison Reed wrote a letter to the Dawn Bible Students explaining how he was disfellowshipped for going back to our Early Watchtower roots. Read this amazing letter and follow Brother Reed on his journey beginning as a faithful follower of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Brother Harrison’s conscience is awakened as he considers how the Read more… Click here to watch the videos: Watch these amazing videos that present the Truths of the Bible in a very simple and easy to understand way: * What is Truth? * The Soul that Sinneth (an examination of the Immortality of the Soul doctrine) * The Power of Hell (does the Bible teach a Read more… https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/Blessed-are-those-who-mourn-Back-Rugirello.mp3 Bible Student elder Brad Bach leads a round table discussion on this topic. Joining him is Bible Student Elders Tom Ruggirello and Peter Karavas (the Beyond the Watchtower website administrator). After the main discussion, audience questions and comments are answered. Here are some of the questions we will discuss: How are those who Read more… Enticing stories of powerful god-men performing superhuman feats are not new. This has been the stuff of myths and legends from ancient civilizations and has been at the very root of idol worship, false gods and false religion. Understandably, today, entertainment seekers are equally fascinated with the subject of god-like super- heroes. Movies, television programs Read more… The Harvest Truth DataBase (HTDB) for Mobile Devices is for those who may wish to selectively download individual files the following website is available: http://www.HTDB.mobi Volumes, Tabernacle, Manna, Original Towers (Reprints), Expanded Biblical Comments, and KJV Bible. A number of titles are hyperlinked to the KJV Bible. Files are offered in Kindle (MOBI) format, Nook Read more… 
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us…” — John 17:20, 21 It is often asked, “What is the right denomination?” Read more… THE RECORDING IS NOW AVAILABLE. https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/Who-are-the-real-witnesses-of-Jehovah.mp3 Isaiah 43:10 – YOU are my witnesses,” is the utterance of Jehovah, “even my servant whom I have chosen, in order that YOU may know and have faith in me, and that YOU may understand that I am the same One. Before me there was no Read more… Listen to Ciro Aulicino, a JW District Overseer and member of the “Bethel family,” circa 2007, speaks on Armageddon. He explains his own horrifying view of how Armageddon by saying, “Very soon, the greatest tribulation since the world’s beginning will come upon all those dwelling upon the face of the earth. This is going Read more… Phil 4:6,7 “Be not anxious about anything, but in everything, let your petitions be made known to God by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, and that peace of God which surpasses all conception shall guard your hearts hand your minds by Christ Jesus.” Diaglott Be not anxious about anything… that is not to be Read more… Revelation 16:16 “And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.” Armageddon! The very word sends shivers down the spine of millions. Armageddon! Of all the Biblical prophecies, this one is probably more recognized than ANY OTHER – even by those who are not believers in the Bible. Armageddon! It Read more… This was in interview that took place on site at last years Bible Student General Convention in Johnstown Pennsylvania. A round table of Bible Students sat around a table together. These were Rick Suraci, Peter Karavas, JM and Jim Parkinson. Also at our side was Jaqueline. Rick Suraci is a famous talk radio personality from Read more… Read all about Super Heroes in the Bible by clicking here Listen to the Radio Program recording by clicking here: [youtube]7EjJRxWe2WM[/youtube] The Avengers Movie may turn out to be the biggest blockbuster sensation in the history of movies, after just raking in over 1 billion worldwide after its second weekend in the U.S. “For at the coming of the Lord there will be great activity on the part of Satan in the form of all kinds of deceptive miracles, signs, and marvels!” — 2 Thessalonians 2:9 (20th Century N.T.) Many Christians are concerned about the increase of spiritism and occultism in the earth today, seeing it as Read more… Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? — Acts 9:6 Once again we arrive at the beginning of another year with a call for retrospection and introspection. Appropriately enough this season betokens a time for resolutions to improve our lives. Unfortunately it also conjures up memories of resolutions broken from prior years. This observation, Read more… Listen to this great Christian Questions Radio Program by clicking here: Christians everywhere talk about the Holy Spirit and how it generates influence, strength and peace in their lives. We all want more of it because we all see it as a way to continually draw closer to God through Jesus. But how does Read more… A cup of cold water is a series of articles written by Sister Suzanne to support Bible Students and our friends. It is also a work in progress. New articles and revisions will be added monthly. If you would like a specific topic addressed, please contact me. Sr. Suzanne is a licensed psychological counselor. She Read more… A warm invitation is being extended to any and all to join in reading and discussing 5 pages a day in in Brother Russell’s Six Volumes of Studies in the Scriptures and Tabernacle Shadows. A special website has been developed to assist in this spiritual endeavor: www.ReadTheVolumes.com This website has all the resources you will Read more… New call in method: Call Phone # 213-226-0400. After connecting dial pin#: 991337 Prepare for the lesson by reading and/or hearing the audio read of chapter 11 by clicking here: The study begins promptly at 7:00 pm Central time (8:00 pm Eastern & 5:00 pm West Coast). It is best to call in Read more… “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” — Mark 9:24 The conflict between faith and doubt is the great reality of the time in which we live. Never before in human history has so much tragedy been witnessed in such vivid display to so many. News events are transmitted via cell phones worldwide as they Read more… [youtube]ReDICg-8ilc[/youtube] What makes a “fit” Christian Leader? As the national conversation focuses on “fit” national leadership, we want to focus on Christian Leadership, how the scriptures say it works and how we sometimes confuse our preferences with firm scriptural principle. We want to look into different approaches to establishing leadership as well as what we Read more… Ioan Bota’s First letter – Reghin, October 2011
Dear brethren from the Bucuresti congregation, This letter, with the exactly same content, I sent you three months ago. But you didn’t answer me. Now, I’ll try again. My name is Ioan Bota, I live in the Mures area, the city of Reghin… I have decided Read more… Our next Bible Study will begin Wednesday evening with question 39, on the top of page 50. Prepare for the lesson by hearing the chapter 10 read – Listen here: or read the chapter yourself here: You can participate by calling in under our Skype Name: BibleStudentFriends . Those who do not have Internet access, Read more… We know from history and archaeology that Jerusalem was the capital of the State of Israel for about 1,700 years until its destruction by Rome in AD 70 and the dispersion of the Jews to the ends of the earth. Remember Luke 21:24? Because of Israel’s sins, including the crucifixion of Jesus, Luke states that Read more… The subject “On Being Saved” is of extraordinary concern to every Christian. It is not a topic that can be ignored, avoided or treated lightly. Much of our peace of mind as Christians rests upon a clear understanding of this subject. Yet we find that people may often exhibit greater concern over their financial portfolios Read more… Who is in danger of the Second Death? Are you, your neighbors or family members? This topic can be as frightening as Armageddon, yet when the topic is carefully reviewed form what the Bible teachings, it is not so frightening as it seems. Fear can be used to control people and too many Church denominations/organization Read more… https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/Open-Forum-Stein-Mezera-Karavas.mp3 This conference call will be an open forum. You chose the topic you want to discuss. You ask any question about the Bible. Share your thought and your reason for it. Former JW and Bible Student Elder, David Stein, will guide Read more… To hear the story of Jesus resurrection as told by Bible Student elder Joe Megacz, click here: He Is Risen THE STORY of our Lord’s resurrection is one of exquisite pathos and beauty. His crucifixion had created despair-had smitten the Shepherd and scattered the sheep. In loving secrecy and weeping silence the faithful few had Read more… What should a Memorial Service be like? Listen to this talk and let us know what you think. Is this what a Memorial Service should be like? If not, how should it be different? How is this service different than what you would hear in a Kingdom Hall? Listen here: Memorial Service_Karavas-Peter_2012-04-05_D_24k Find more about the Memorial by clicking here: Here is a script of a Memorial service that you can use for your Congregation orlittle group or even just yourself. First ask everyone to “Please make sure that all cell phones are silent or turned off.” Here is the text of the service and the Read more…
THE RECORDING IS NOW AVAILABLE BY CLICKING HERE: Saturday March 10 Conference Call. How can we follow Jesus’ instructions on His Yearly Memorial of partaking of the bread and the cup? Former JW and Bethelite, and now a Bible Student Elder, David Stein will lead a round table discussion on this topic. Guest hosts Read more… Matthew 21:5 (NASB) “SAY TO THE DAUGHTER OF ZION, ‘BEHOLD YOUR KING IS COMING TO YOU, GENTLE, AND MOUNTED ON A DONKEY, EVEN ON A COLT, THE FOAL OF A BEAST OF BURDEN.’” [youtube]5WUnlUpSF9U[/youtube] The events of the Sunday before Jesus’ crucifixion were monumental. They not only began the culminating process for the greatest human Read more… On Sunday, March 18, Chicago Bible Student Elder spoke to the congregation on the topic of “The Seven Feasts of Israel.” This is a very appropriate talk to list to during this memorial season. You can listen to the talk by clicking here: [youtube]_F0cv-h52Q8[/youtube] In the ancient texts prophecies fortell world events. With society crumbling and world events heating up, are we in perilous times? What does the Bible really say? In 2 Timothy 3, The Apostle Paul warns of a time when godliness is seemingly evaporated and sin overruns all. We are now (we believe) living in Read more… “This do in remembrance of me. … For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death.” —I Corinthians 11:24,26 ON THAT PORTENTOUS evening nearly two thousand years ago, pious Jews all over the land were gathering with their families to celebrate once more the Feast of Read more… “Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened.” —I Corinthians 5:7 IN THE DAYS AND WEEKS leading up to this year’s Memorial celebration, which will be after sundown on April 5, it should be especially helpful that we take to heart the important lessons concerning the Read more… [youtube]SLGBqjot2e4[/youtube] Slavery is one of the major ills of the history of mankind. It has existed in many forms for thousands of years and sadly still exists today. What is God’s view on such a practice? If God doesn’t like it (and he doesn’t) then why does it show up in the Bible? Listen live Read more… Psalms 102:1-2 “Hear my prayer, O LORD! And let my cry for help come to You. 2Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my distress; Incline Your ear to me; In the day when I call answer me quickly”. Listen Here: http://www.christianquestions.net/en/2012mp3/699_Where_is_God_when_Tragedy_Strikes_the_Innocent_03_04_12.mp3 [youtube]74CtNI9u_cM[/youtube] CHARDON, Ohio (The Blaze/AP) – The death toll Read more… Actually, there is no denominational church today that is structured like the Early Church. The Early Watchtower actually was structured like the Early Church, but Rutherford changed that after Russell’s death. Bible Students today still structure their congregations in this Biblical manner. According to the Bible, the election of elders by Holy Spirit anointed congregational Read more… The Matthew chapters 5-7 Sermon on the Mount begins with the Beatitudes, to which the reader is amply referred in The Beatitudes and More in the 2005 January issue; and Living the Beatitudes, which is the theme of the 2002 May/June issue. In this issue we go beyond the Beatitudes in How to Read more… based on a true story Edward Fudge, a young Bible-belt preacher, gets a surprise visit from an eccentric stranger who has a bizarre request. He wants Fudge to investigate Hell. Son of a respected church leader known for his conservative religious views, Edward is confident that whatever the Bible really teaches is right. Trained in Read more… Psalm 91:11 (KJV) “For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” [youtube]Rrgtpr0WVac[/youtube] Angels. Are they real? If they are, what do they do – where do they live? Can we communicate with them? SHOULD we communicate with them? There are many questions surrounding these mysterious beings and Read more… “Having, therefore, these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”–2 Cor. 7:1. R4974 – IN OUR TEXT the expression, “filthiness of the flesh,” seems to be a general one, in contrast with the Divine purity in which man was Read more… Daniel 12 refers to three periods of time: 1260, 1290, and 1335 days. These prophetic days are generally understood to represent years, which began to count “from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up.” (Daniel 12:11) The date when Papacy was “set up” with Read more… Counsel from C.T. Russell [R1884 : page 249] “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”–Phil. 3:14. THESE were the words of one of the most earnest and faithful runners for the prize of the high calling of the Gospel Church. The speaker was a man Read more… [youtube]hIxHvO5jjSg[/youtube] The Sabbath was put in place by God as a way for his children to stop – to stop their lives for a day and be able to look up, gain perspective and then once again move forward. In the 10 Commandments, the Sabbath is clearly on Saturday. Why then do we not observe Read more… 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 “Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered.” [youtube]ZdqR8AoFFiw[/youtube] Listen Here: http://www.christianquestions.net/en/2012mp3/696_Are_there_Secrets_to_Staying_in_Love_02_12_12.mp3 So Valentine’s day is just a few days away. Read more… [RULES ABOUT TRINITY DISCUSSION: Maximum of 500 words per day or your comments will be removed. Do not post a comment unless you are willing to thoughtfully and honestly consider any responses.] While the majority of the Christian world considers the concept of the Trinity vital to Christianity, many historians and Bible scholars agree that Read more… Every scripture inspired of God (is) also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness. That the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work.—2 Timothy 3:16, 17 (ASV) Which translation of the Bible is best for the devoted Christian? How faithful is it Read more… Proverbs 21:2 – 3 “Every man’s way is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the hearts. To do righteousness and justice is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice.” [youtube]EmIrCrCC5mQ[/youtube] Listen Here: http://www.christianquestions.net/en/2012mp3/691_Does_God_Play_Favorites_01_08_12.mp3 We all have our favorites. Favorite colors, seasons, sports, teams, foods. Sometimes we have favorite people, places and things. Read more… “. . .the Harvest is the End of the Age. ..” Matthew 13:39 NAS (… the conclusion of the system of things NWT) A harvest is the gathering of the results of a preceding growing season. Jesus—at the request of his Apostles—actually interpreted his parable about “the harvest” at the “end of Read more… Christianity is not a religion that is best developed in the monastery of a solitary life. It is forged and molded in countless associations with others. Jesus walked the main thoroughfares of ancient Judea. He rubbed shoulders with thousands. Crowds thronged around him. His social life ranged from meals at the homes of the Pharisees Read more… The historic journey of the Word of God reads like a dramatic mystery novel, complete with political intrigue, brave heroes, hush money, treachery and murder. To the sincere Christian, the Bible is not just a compilation of wise proverbs and interesting stories, but it is a priceless treasure—the words and thoughts of the Divine Creator Read more… “. . . the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night . . . But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” 1 Thess. 5:2-4 To many Christians, the second coming of Christ is an earth shattering event. If so, how do Read more… To learn the Truths of the Bible may seem like a daunting task. The following links are intended to provide some easy ways of getting an understanding of what the Bible teachers. How to Study the Bible http://www.bibletoday.com/htstb/intro.htm to proceed after each chapter, click “next chapter” in upper left Read PhotoDrama of Creation – upper Read more… Please Make a comment if these instructions need updating: There is actually a way to make free phone calls through your computer. The benefit of the head set with mic, instead of a microphone with speakers, is that with the headset, you will not create feedback problems in your phone call. With speakers however, Read more… 
The Chicago Ecclesia invites all to attend our New Years Convention held this year on Saturday December 31, 2011 through Monday January 2, 2012. The convention was broadcast on the internet and recorded via Acrobat Connect. The program and links to recordings is listed below. Time Session (linked to recording when available) Speaker/Leader SATURDAY Read more… “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” — John 8:32 Have you ever asked the question, “Why are there so many different denominations with so many different doctrinal interpretations?” How do we sort through all of the various creeds to come to one harmonious understanding of God’s Word? The following Read more… “Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” —Matthew 1:21 BY THE GREAT POWER OF our Heavenly Father, Jesus’ spiritual life as the Logos was transferred to that of a perfect man. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory Read more… Chicago Bible Students Elder and Friends of Jehovah’s Witnesses Administrator, Peter Karavas spoke to the congregation on Sunday Dec. 18, on the topic: Will Only Jehovah’s Witnesses Survive Armageddon? Is this lifetime the only chance for repentance and life? Is there any future hope? Will family members who have not jointed the JW Organization perish Read more…
Date: Sunday, December 25, 2011 Time: 9:00 AM Central (10:00 am EST and 7:00 am PST) Speaker: Br Joe Megacz Title: The Birth of Jesus Overview: What does the scriptural record say about the birth of Jesus? • What prophecies foretold the circumstances? • Did he have a pre-human existence? • Is gift-giving Read more… Phil 2:7 “He emptied himself, taking the form of a bondservant and being made in the likeness of men.” For a very confused world Christmas is here! For them it is the time for celebration of Santa, elves, reindeer, mistletoe, snow, decoration, gifts, parties, football, TV holiday specials, Christmas songs, holiday cheer, holly, mistletoe, shopping, Read more… The www.ctrussell.us website has an e-Sword Files page with installation files for modules that work with the free Windows based e-Sword bible program. The www.ctrussell.us website also has a MySword Files page with links to files that work with the free Android based MySword bible program. If you have an Android based device (Smart Phone Read more… Alan Rogerson in his book (as well as some other books) gives the 1925 Memorial attendance as 90,434, and 1926 as 89,278. However, the 1928 Memorial attendance was only a little over 19,000. With so many of the Anointed now gone, Joseph Rutherford soon turned the message away from the heavenly calling to the earthly Read more… Today the Bible Student Movement is united worldwide and even growing in some countries. However, before this re-unification, many schisms occurred after Brother Russell died in 1916. Go to any bookstore or library and look up “Jehovah’s Witnesses” and you will find nine times out of ten the statement; “Jehovah’s Witnesses, a sect founded by Read more… Revelation is the most difficult book in the Bible to understand, but now it is made easy. CLICK HERE to visit this amazing website and find our how quickly you can understand Revelation by letting the Bible interpret itself: Listen to these simple introductory talks on Revelation: Revelation For Beginners Revelation Introduction Revelation Made Read more… Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21). From time to time we note what appear to be inaccuracies when New Testament writers quote from the Old Testament. Sometimes words are left out, added, or changed. Many times what we have learned in the Harvest Message applies Read more…
The Photo-Drama of Creation was produced in 4 parts, altogether for 8 hours. The completed production premiered in January 1914 in New York and was presented worldwide, being viewed by over 9 million people. It has the distinction of being the first major screenplay to incorporate synchronized sound, moving film, and color slides. You can now view this webcast by clicking here: Does the Bible teach that you should be pursuing a earthly hope today, to be a part of the Great Crowd on earth? Or does it teach that the Christian should be pursuing a heavenly hope, to be a part of the bride of Christ? Read more… Most Christians today sense that we are living in the prophetic end times. This is for good reason, because Jesus gave his disciples a hidden message in Matthew 24 about the days of Noah which provides Scriptural confirmation that we are, indeed, living in the last days. In fact, Matthew 24:37 is but one of Read more… Former JW and now Bible Student Elder, David Stein, tells the story of how he used to go door to door and faced a crisis of conscience when he realized his good Christian neighbor would die in Armageddon for not accepting the JW message. David clearly explains what the Bible teaches about the Ransom for Read more… The days of Daniel, particularly the 1260 days is described in detail in Volume 3 of Studies in the Scriptures, “Thy Kingdom Come” here: http://www.ctrussell.us/ctrussell/ctrussell.nsf/ScriptureStudies?OpenView&Start=1&Count=1000&Expand=4#4 Daniel 7:25 reveals “the saints of the most high” are worn out by the “little horn” for a period of a “time, times, and a half times,” which most agree Read more… THE RECORDING IS NOW AVAILABLE. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN: JM_intvw_byRawe On Saturday October 15, Ex-JW and former Circuit Overseer Richard Rawe interviewed JM, an early Watchtower and Adventist Historian. Jeff will talk about his history of studying with the Jehovah’s Witnesses and why he instead decided to become one of the Bible Students. The program Read more… Transformation is the essence of the Christian life. Knowledge, service, worship, and praise are only tools to be used to this end. The process of transformation of character is an individual matter. As no two parts of the human body are exactly alike, and as no two stones for Solomon’s Temple were chiseled as duplicates Read more… Bible Student elder, Aaron Kuehmichel tenderly examines this topic from the Bible. Are we sinning? Is Jehovah unhappy with our behavior and thoughts? Are we deceiving ourselves into thinking we can confess our sins to Jehovah, then keep on sinning? What steps can we take to correct our hearts and minds? How can we get Read more… All Christians adhere to the Gospel message that salvation comes only through Jesus. In this Christian Questions radio program Rick and Jonathan examine just who Jesus was calling to hear him. Was it anyone and everyone or were his messages designed for just a few to respond to, with provisions made for everyone else later? Read more… An official magazine for Jehovah’s Witnesses that described those who leave the church as “mentally diseased” is at the centre of a police inquiry, it has emerged. Read more from the UK Telegraph here: Check out related articles on the “Ask Jacqueline” page of this website. The official magazine for Jehovah’s Witnesses has described Read more… THE RECORDING IS NOW AVAILABLE. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN: 2011-10-02 LenGriehs_CongregationOrganization On Sunday, October 2, a Bible Student elder, Leonard Griehs, was the guest on a conference call with Richard Rawe and other Ex-JWs. He answered the question, “How is the Congregation (Ecclesia) to be set up and run according to the Bible?” The Conference Read more… YOU CAN LISTEN TO THE RECORDING BY CLICKING HERE: 2011-09-25 RicCunninghamRansom On Sunday, September 25, a Bible Student elder, Rick Cunningham, was the guest on a conference call with Richard Rawe and other Ex-JWs and he answered the question, “Did Jesus die a Ransom for ALL or for all sorts of people?” As you know, Read more… The death of Pastor Charles Taze Russell, October 31, 1916, marked a dramatic change in the course of the Bible Student movement.
PASTOR RUSSELL’S MINISTRY During Pastor Russell’s lifetime, he founded the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society and other business entities to further the work of proclaiming “Present Truth” to the Read more… On Sunday, September 18, former Circuit Overseer, Richard Rawe and other Ex-JWs hammered questions at a Bible Student Elder. The Bible Student elder answered the question, “Is the Jewish return to Israel a fulfillment of Bible Prophecy?” As you know, JWs do not believe that Jehovah’s promises of a future return to their land apply Read more… This is a time of Remembrance—remembrance of a Day we will never forget. . . . We like to think that “time heals. . .” But we seem to need something more than time. We need answers. . . .Why, Lord, why? “Where was God on September 11th?”. . . . As Christians we ask, Read more… Armageddon has become a household word, as troubles spread their foreboding upon earth. It is used when there are conflicts between nations and ideologies, especially when there is worldwide turmoil. The news media has used it frequently, though it is questionable many times if the writer really knew the origin and background of the word. Read more… The concept of the apostasy as a “falling away” is clearly defined in the Scriptures. The prophetic and historic “apostasy” of the Christian Age has been the Papacy (2 Thessalonians 2:3-8). The Historic Apostasy—and Many Apostasies. As the “mystery of evil [lawlessness],” the apostasy was already fomenting in the Apostles’ day with “elders” emerging as Read more… But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. – John 14:26 Many Christians talk about the holy spirit, but few have a clear idea of exactly what it Read more… This early Bible Student history book is written by Bro. Ken Rawson, a Bible Student elder who knew more Bible Students from Pastor Russell’s and JF Rutherford’s time than any other Bible Student elder alive today. After the death of Pastor Russell in 1916, the purpose of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society changed Read more… This book is a historic reprint of the original scenario book issued for distribution at the Photo Drama showings that toured the US and Canada in 1914. The original book was printed in magenta ink with half tone pictures. It was originally published in both hardcover and paperback. This paperback reprint is a careful reproduction Read more… On Sunday, August 21, 2011, Ex-JWs grilled a Bible Student elder on questions about the book of Revelation. The main question: Who is Babylon the Great? First the Bible Student elder gave a 45 minute presentation to answer that question. Two hours of tough and relentless questions followed. Yet the discussion was friendly, optimistic and Read more… The Scriptures record many instances of conflict—between nations, among friends, and in families. Today we see the same types of problems. While fighting, people can say harsh words. Accusations create turmoil and emotional pain. If we attempt to avoid one conflict, we often find another: “As if a man did flee from a lion, and Read more… Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (NKJV) Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” (KJV) I will not leave you comfortless [or orphans]: I will come to you.—John 14:18 In these words of the Savior we have an “I will not” and an “I will” in close and significant conjunction. One seems to show us the negative, and the other the positive side of Christ’s love. The first Read more… “Let the heavens rejoice … the earth be glad … the field be joyful, and all that is therein: … all the trees of the wood shall rejoice before the Lord. For he cometh … to judge the earth … with righteousness, and the people with his truth.” —Psalm 96:11-13 The teaching of the Bible Read more… Our next Bible Study will begin on Sept 14, Wednesday evening. Prepare for the lesson by hearing the chapter 6 read – Listen here: or read the chapter yourself here: We prefer that everyone participating call in under our Skype Name: BibleStudentFriends . Those who do not have Internet access, or are not comfortable with Read more… Jeremiah 14:17 assures us God even cries over the tragic loss befalling those who have rebelled against Him. Yes, God does care when we suffer. He is concerned when tragedy strikes. God knows our frame that we are but dust (Psalm 103:14 ). He realizes the enormity of human suffering could and would cause some Read more… “Of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” —Genesis 2:17 Why doesn’t God do something about all the suffering that is in the world today? Why does God allow an innocent baby to sicken and die? Read more… The rebirth of Israel as a nation is the great phenomenon of our day to those who see this event as a fulfillment of God’s word. The rebirth of Israel could never have occurred without the astonishing fact that the people of Israel, who had been scattered throughout the entire earth for nearly 2,000 years, Read more… What are some of the differences between Jehovah’s Witnesses and Bible Students (who hold the views of the early Watchtower). Why did the JW Organization changes its views after over 40 years of consistent and unchanging teaching? Bible Students respond to the following questions: A Ransom for ALL or for all sorts of people? Nations Read more… But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, . . . — Galatians 5:22 Joy, like love, is difficult to define. It may best be described by the things which it does. Like love, it describes an entire spectrum of emotions. Like love, it is developed in stages. It can perhaps be roughly defined Read more… “Hew down the tree. . . leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass . . . let a beast’s heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him” – Daniel 4:14-16 This text comes from a dream of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Read more… The Futurist view is held by many very sincere Christians. Actually, John Darby back in the mid 1800s sold his Futurist “seven-year tribulation” concept to a minority of Fundamentalists. But they are a vociferous minority. During the balance of the 1800s up until 1948 they taught that Jesus could return any day. They claim that Read more… https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/bs-6-5-11.mp3 To listen to the recording, click above or To listen, click here and look for the June 5, 2011 program. — It is described at the link as “Who are the “Little Flock”, the “Great Crowd” and the “Other Sheep”?“ Does the Bible teach that you should be pursuing a earthly hope today, to Read more… For over forty years, the early Watchtower taught freedom of thought and liberty in Christ. After the death of C.T. Russell in 1916, everything changed. Here is what the Watchtower used to publish. The following quotes are taken from “The New Creation” book, Volume 6 of C.T. Russell’s Studies in the Scriptures series, starting on Read more… Listen to this penetrating lesson on Christian living by clicking here: The Parable Of The Penny_Springer-Allen_2011-06-19_D_24k The main lesson of this parable is gratitude, contentment and brotherly love. We should never murmur against what the Lord has given us as compared to others. Indeed, all who are servants, according to the Word of the Lord, Read more… In the parable Jesus dramatized two crises his followers must experience. The first is God’s calling (1Pet 5:10). This crisis is resolved in the parable by entering the banquet hall. In the Christian walk it is resolved by consecration to holy living and obedience to the will of God. Typified by the general consecration of Read more… Dangers are all about us. Homicide is the leading cause of death among black teen-agers today. The drug culture has spawned violence throughout the land as the addict resorts to any means to find the funds to fuel his addiction. If we do not feel personally threatened by these dangers, we worry for others—our Read more… Many Bible prophecies predict the conditions and events of our day as signs of the end of the world—today’s headlines written nearly 2,000 years ago. Consideration of these prophecies establishes: (1) that the Bible is indeed the inspired Word of God; (2) that we are living in unprecedented times prophesied in Scripture as the “end Read more… Our next Bible Study will begin on June 29, Wednesday evening. Prepare for the lesson by hearing the chapter 5 read – Listen here: We prefer that everyone participating call in under our Skype Name: BibleStudentFriends . Those who do not have Internet access, or are not comfortable with Skype, can call with this phone Read more… 1 Timothy 2:3-4 (NAS) “This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Salvation — it is at the very core of Christian Faith. Salvation is something we all want and something that we as Christians Read more… Yes, you can watch and listen to a recording of much of the Chicago Bible Students three day convention. Just click on the links below, sit back and enjoy the blessings. 11-05-28 O.B. Elbert – Titus http://biblestudents.adobeconnect.com/p8nm5onx574/ 11-05-28 David Christiansen – 70 Times 7 http://biblestudents.adobeconnect.com/p15ibpu8q1f/ 11-05-28 Freeman Thompson – The Promises of God http://biblestudents.adobeconnect.com/p155kbo9ias/ 11-05-29 Read more… For decades Charles Taze Russell’s legacy has been associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses in published accounts that inaccurately list him as their founder. In 1997, Professor David S. Doran corrected the matter by writing the editor of The Cambridge Biographical Encyclopedia and delivering a more accurate account of Brother Charles Taze Russell’s life. Through Professor Doran’s Read more… https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/I-Will-Come-Again.wmv
Let us know by responding to the Poll to the right. The Bible has for centuries been a source of confusion to men everywhere. Many people have concluded that it cannot be a reliable source of information because so many contradictory theories claim to be based upon its contents. The purpose of this booklet is Read more… THE OBJECTIVE of the first three verses of Hebrews is to impress upon the Jewish Christians that a new epoch has begun which, while it centers in Jesus, is based upon the prophetic accumulations of the past. Because the entire book of Hebrews will contrast Jesus to features and prominent ones of the past, showing Read more… Listen to parts 1 & 2 of the fascinating radio program by clicking here: (See programs 658 & 659) John 14:3: (NASB) If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself, that where I am, there you may be also. If you are a Bible-believing Christian, Read more… We have a new page called “Anointed Talk” and we are encouraging Anointed JWs to share their stories. We always thought that the Anointed were among the most respected JWs and that they were looked to for spiritual leadership and guidance. We are surprised to be hearing a very different story from the Anointed who Read more… Our next Bible Study will begin on May 18, Wednesday evening. Find more information about our studies by clicking here: We prefer that everyone participating call in under our Skype Name: BibleStudentFriends . Those who do not have Internet access, or are not comfortable with Skype, can call with this phone # 630-687-1117 . If Read more… Is this picture right? The purpose of the Battle of Armageddon is gather the nations to destroy this old order in the symbolic “fire” of anarchy—in preparation for the blessings of a “new heavens and a new earth” (Isaiah 65:17). Armageddon will be unprecedented and unique in two ways: magnitude and target. It will be Read more… LESSONS FROM MOTHERS OF THE BIBLE What lesson’s can we learn from the lives of mothers of the Bible? How did they inspire their children to follow Jehovah? For insightful comments, click here Reference: and check box called “Expanded Biblical Comments,” then click on the “Refresh” button. Do this each time you look up a Read more… Salvation – it is at the very core of Christian faith. Salvation is something we all want and something that we as Christians all claim. That’s good…for us. Now the harder part. What about unbelievers? Where do they fit? Do all unbelievers have the same opportunity as we do? What about those who never heard Read more… The Photo-Drama of Creation was produced at the time of the Early Watchtower under the direction of it’s president, Charles Taze Russell. It was in 4 parts, altogether for 8 hours. The completed production premiered in January 1914 in New York and was presented worldwide, being viewed by over 9 million people. It has the Read more… The Herald Magazine covers Controversial Doctrines The Trinity, Immortality of the Soul, Everlasting Punishment, Baptism, Let Us Not Come Short, Prosperity Theology, Every Eye Shall See Him and Our Heritage of Knowledge. The magazine cover has a likeness of Arius, a fourth century Christian leader from Alexandria, Egypt, who taught that Jesus was the son Read more… 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 Read more… Click book to download the electronic book – REVELATION The Revelation Notebook You know what the Jehovah’s Witnesses Organization teaches about Revelation. What do Bible Students teach about Revelation. This wonderful electronic book is a good representation of what many Bible Students believe about the books of Revelation. As the light has shined brighter and Read more… https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/bs-5-8-11.mp3 CLICK ON THE RECORDING ABOVE OR IF YOU CLICK HERE TO LISTEN. You will need to find the May 8, 2011 program and click on that. What Biblical doctrine, more than any other, demonstrates the Love and Justice of God? How have the Jehovah’s Witnesses lost this most important doctrine of Christianity? What is Read more… Find Christian Questions talk radio programs on the Passover, Memorial and Resurrection by clicking here: Look for program # 655 on the Passover Look for program # 656 on the Jesus’ Resurrection https://www.friendsofjehovahswitnesses.com/wp-content/uploads/bs-4-10-11.mp3 CLICK ABOVE TO HEAR THE RECORDING OR CLICK HERE: AND FIND THE APRIL 10 RECORDING. Since first going online in 1996, Eric Patterson’s Pastor Russell websites have been seen by nearly 20 million people from literally every state, country and territory on earth. In January 2006 Pastor-Russell.com temporarily entered the top 60,000 websites worldwide. The Bible teaches that the New Creation is not to Evil Speak against others. It is important that we all study and understand how to apply Matt 18:15-17, so that when problems arise, we are equipped to respond as God has directed. In this regard, we highly recommend the review of Volume 6, p289-293 as Read more… For those who are not able to physically attend a Memorial Services with a local congregation, you can have your own Memorial Service at home. Attached below is a recording from a Memorial Service given to the Chicago Bible Students in April of 2004. If you plan to partake, have jewish matzo bread (or substitute Read more… On Saturday April 2, Ex-JW and former Circuit Overseer Richard Rawe interviewd Russ Marten (an elder with the Chicago Bible Students Congregation) about what the Bible says about the formation and structure of the Bible Student congregation, how the early church is set up and how the Bible Students model themselves after this. You can Read more… Gal 5: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk Read more… Gal 3:28 – There is neither… male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Jesus’ attitude toward women was radically different from what was customary at the time. Women normally stayed home and attended to domestic duties. But Jesus allowed women to travel with Him and His twelve disciples (Luke 8:1-3). TWO SALVATIONS A systematic approach to examining Two Salvations & Restitution Eph 1:9,10 – “restoring the whole creation” – Weymouth Acts 3:21 – “times of restoration of all things… spoken by … all His holy prophets” NKJV Salvation Can Only Come Through Christ John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the Read more… Coming up in March and April of 2011 are various interviews with Bible Students on the Six Screens of the Watchtower Teleconference Network. Additionally, Bible Students have been offered a once a month spot on Sundays, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm EST, beginning on March 13, then continuing April 10 and May 8 and Read more… Remove out of the midst of Babylon, and go forth out of the land of the Chaldeans, and be as the he goats before the flocks.–Jeremiah 50:8 Babylon was not only a literal city and empire, but also a symbol of oppressive captivity. Thus it was not unusual for first century Jews to refer to Read more… You can read the amazing illustrated Divine Plan of the Ages book online by clicking here. This book is Volume 1 of the famous series of Studies in the Scriptures series.
clickable_chart_of_the_ages with explaination In 1886 this first volume of the series was written. It was originally titled The Plan Read more… |
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