"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Heavenly Chorus

How do the others of the vast heavenly host of Jehovah's organization respond to this new song?  John thrills to behold their heartfelt accord: "And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels around throne and the living creatures and the elders, and the number of them was myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice:  "The Lamb that was slaughtered was worthy  to receive the power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing." (Revelation 5:11, 12)  What and impressive song of praise!

 

Does this mean that now Jesus has somehow replaced Jehovah God and that all creation has turned to praising him rather than is Father?  Far  from it!  Rather, this song of praise is in harmony with what the apostle Pau was wrote: "God exalted [Jesus] to a superior position and kindly gave him the name  that is above every other name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and  every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." ( Philippians 2:9-11) Jesus is here extolled because of his part in settling the primary issue before all creation-the vindication of Jehovah's rightful sovereignty.  What glory, indeed this has brought to his Father!

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Swelling Anthem

From the jw.org publications 

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A New Song

A melodic song now rings forth.  It is sung to the Lamb by his priestly associates, the 24 elders:  "And they sing a a new song, saying: 'You are worthy to open the scroll and open its seals, because you were slaughtered and with your blood you bought persons for God out of every tribe and tongue and people and nations." (Revelation 5:9)  The expression "new song"  occurs several times in the Bible and usually refers to  praising Jehovah for some mighty act of deliverance.  (Psalm 96:1;98:1; 144:9)   Thus, the new song is new because the singer can now proclaim additional wonderful works of Jehovah and express renewed appreciation for His glorious name. 

Here, though, the 24 elders sing a new song before Jesus rather than before Jehovah.  But the principles is the same.  They praise Jesus  for the new things that he, as God's Son, has done in their behalf. By means of his blood, he mediated the new covenant and thus made possible the bringing forth of a new nation as Jehovah's special possession. (Romans 2:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Hebrews 7:18-25)  Members of this new spiritual nation came from many fleshly nations, but Jesus united them into one congregation as one nation. - ISAIAH 26:2;  1 PETER 2:9, 10.

When Jehovah formed the Israelites into a nation back in the days of Moses, he made a covenant with the and promised that if they would remain faithful to that covenant, they would become a nation of priests before him.  (Exodus 19:5, 6)  The Israelites were not faithful and never experienced the realization of that promise. On the other hand, the new nation, formed by virtue of the new covenant mediated by  Jesus, has remained faithful.  It's members therefore get to rule over the earth as kings and also to serve as priests, helping righthearted ones among mankind to be reconciled to Jehovah.  (Colossians 1:20)   It is just as the new song expresses it:  "And you made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God and they are to rule as kings over the earth." - (Revelation 5:10)  What joy those 24 elders have in singing this new song of praise to the glorified Jesus! 

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Heavenly Chorus

From the jw.org publications 

 

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - Songs of Praise

 How do those others before Jehovah's throne react?" "And when he took the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one having a harp and golden bowls that were full of incense, and the incense means the prayers of the holt ones." (Revelation 5:8)  Like the four cherubic living creatures before God's throne, the 24 elders bow to Jesus in acknowledgement of the his authority. But these elders are alone in having harps and bowls of incense.  And they alone now sing a new song.  (Galatians 6:16; Colossians 1:12; Revelation 7:3-8; 14:1-4)   Further, the 24 elders are shown to fulfill a heavenly, priestly function by that of the priests in ancient Israel who burned incense to Jehovah in the tabernacle-a function that ended on earth, when God took the Mosaic Law out of the way. nailing it to Jesus' torture stake.   (Colossians 2:14)   What conclusion do we draw from all of this?  That here the anointed overcomers are seen in their ultimate assignment as 'priests of God and of the Christ, ruling as kings with him for the thousand years.'  -REVELATION 20:6.

In ancient Israel, entry into the Most Holy before the symbolic presence  of Jehovah was limited to the high priest.  For him, carrying incense was a life-or-death matter.  Jehovah's law said:  "[Aaron] must take the fire holder full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before Jehovah, and the hollows of both his hand full of fine perfumed incense, and he bring them inside the curtain. He must also put the incense upon the fire before Jehovah, and the cloud of the incense must  overspread the Ark cover, which is upon the Testimony, that he may not die." (Leviticus  16:12, 13)  It was impossible for the high priest to penetrate successfully into the Most Holy unless he burned incense.

In the Christian system of things not only the antitypical High Priest, Jesus Christ, but also each of the 144,000 underpriest eventually gets to enter the antitypical Most Holy, the place of Jehovah's presence in heaven.  (Hebrews 10:19-23)  Entry into this Most Holy is impossible  for these priest, as represented by the 24 elders, unless they 'burn incense,' that is, constantly offer up prayers and supplications to  Jehovah. - HEBREWs 5:7; JUDE 20. 21. Compare PSALM 141:2. 

Next time:  "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A New Song

From the jw.org publications

"Who is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - 'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered"

 John looks to see this "Lion that is of the tribe of Judah." But how astounding!  a completely different symbolic figure appears: "And I saw standing in the midst of the throne and of four living creatures and in the midst of the elders  a lamb as though it had been slaughtered, having seven horns and seven eyes, which eyes mean the seven spirits of God that have been sent forth into the whole earth." - REVELATION 5:6. 

Right in the center, beside the throne, within the circles formed by the four living creatures and the 24 elders,  there is a lamb!  Doubtless John quickly identifies this lamb with "the Lion that is of the tribe of  Judah" and  "the root of David."  He knows that, more than 60 years earlier, the John the Baptizer  introduced Jesus to onlooking Jews as "the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) All during his life on earth, Jesus remained untainted by the world-just like an unblemished lamb-so that he could offer his blameless life as a sacrifice for mankind. - 1 CORINTHIANS  5:7; HEBREWS 7:26. 

Is it somehow belittling or undignified  to represent the glorified Jesus as "a lamb as though it had been slaughtered"?  Not at all!  The fact that Jesus stayed faithful to the death was a major defeat for Satan and a great triumph for Jehovah God.  Representing Jesus in this way vividly portrays his conquest of Satan's world and is a reminder of the deep love that Jehovah and Jesus  have for mankind.  (John 3:16; 15:13; compare Colossians 2:15.) Jesus  is thus pointed to as the promised Seed, outstandingly qualified to open the scroll. - GENESIS 3:15.

What else adds to our appreciation of this "lamb"?  He has seven horns.  Horns in the Bible are often a symbol of power or authority, and seven would indicate completeness. (Compare 1 Samuel 2:1, 10; Psalm 112:9; 148:14.)  Hence, the Lamb's seven horns represent the fullness of power that Jehovah  has entrusted to Jesus.  He is "far above every government and authority and power and lordship and ever   name name, not only in this system of things, but also is that to come." (Ephesians 1:20-23; 1 Peter 3:22)  Jesus has particularly exercised power, governmental power, since 1914 when Jehovah enthroned him as King. - PSALM 2:6.

Moreover, Jesus is filled to completeness with holy spirit, as pictured by the Lamb's  seen  eyes, which, "mean the seven spirits of God." Jesus is a channel through whom the fullness of Jehovah's active force flows to His earthly servants.  (Titus 3:6)   Evidently, it is by this same spirit that he sees from  heaven what is happening here on earth.  Like his Father, Jesus has perfect discernment.  Nothing escapes his notice.  (Compare Psalm 11:4; Zechariah 4:10.)  Clearly, this Son-the integrity keeper who conquered the world; the Lion of the tribe of Judah; the root of David; the one who offered his life for mankind, the one with complete authority, fullness of  holy spirit, and perfect discernment from Jehovah God - yes, this one is outstandingly worthy to take the scroll from Jehovah's hand.  Does he hesitate to accept this commission of service in Jehovah's lofty organization? No!  Rather, "he went and once took it  [the scroll] out of the right hand of the One seated on the throne?" (Revelation 5:7)  What a fine example of willing compliance!

Next time:  "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - Songs of Praise

From the jw.org publications

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - The Worthy One

 Yes, there is someone able to open the scroll John relates: "But one of the elders says to me: "Stope weeping.  Look!   The Lion of the tribe of Juda, the root of David, has conquered so as to open the scroll and its seven seals." (Revelation 5:5)   So John, dry those tears!  The  John class and their loyal companions today had also endured decades of severe trials while waiting patiently for enlightenment.  What a comforting reward we now have in understanding the vision, and what a privilege to share in its fulfillment by proclaiming its message to others! 

Ah,  "the Lion that is  of the tribe of Judah"!  John is familiar with the prophecy that Jacob, ancestor of the Jewish race, pronounced  concerning his fourth son, Judah:  "a lion cub Judah is.  From they prey, my son, you will certainly go up.  He bowed down, he stretched himself out like a lion and, like a lion, who dares rouse him?  The  scepter will turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:9, 10)   The royal line of God's people stemmed from Judah, starting with David, all the kings who ruled in Jerusalem until the Babylonians destroyed that city were Judah's descendants.  But not one of them was the Shiloh prophesied by Jacob.  Shiloh means "He Whose [Right] It is."  Prophetically, this name pointed to Jesus, the one to whom the Davidic Kingdom now permanently belongs. - EZEKIEL 21:25-27; LUKE 1:32. 33; REVELATION 19:16.

John quickly recognizes the reference to "the root of David."  The promised Messiah is prophetically called both "a twig out of the stump of Jesse [father  of King David] . . . .a sprout" and "the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples."  (Isaiah 11:1, 10) Jesus was a twig of Jesse, having born  into the royal line of David, son of Jesse.  Further,, as a root of Jesse, he was the One that caused the Davidic dynasty to sprout again, giving it life and sustenance forever. - 2 SAMUEL 7:16,  

Jesus preeminently is the one who, as a perfect human, served Jehovah in integrity and under excruciating  trials.  He supplied the complete answer  to Satan's challenge."  (Proverbs 27:11)   Thus, he could say as he did on the night before his sacrificial death. "I have conquered the world."  (John 16:33)   For this reason, Jehovah entrusted Jesus with "all authority . . . in heaven and on the earth."  He alone of all the servants of God is qualified to received  the scroll, with a  view to making known its momentous message. - MATTHEW 2 8:18. 

It is appropriate, indeed, that Jesus should open the scroll. Since 1914 he has been enthroned as King of God's Messianic  Kingdom, and that scroll  reveals so much concerning the Kingdom and what it will accomplish.  Jesus faithfully bore witness to Kingdom truth while he was here on earth. (John 18:36, 37)   He taught his followers  to pray for the coming of  the Kingdom.  (Matthew 6:9, 10)   He initiated  the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom at the beginning of the Christian era and prophesied the culmination of that preaching work during the time of the end.  (Matthew 4:23; Mark 13:10)  It is likewise appropriate that one of the 24 elders should reveal to John that Jesus is the one to open the seals.  Why?  Because  these elders sit on thrones and wear crowns, being John's heirs with Christ in his Kingdom.  - ROMANS 8:17; REVELATION 4:4. 

Next time: "Who Is Worth to Open the Scrolls?" - 'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'

From the jw.org publications

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?"

 SUBLIME! AWE INSPIRING! Such is the stirring vision of Jehovah's throne in it setting amid the lamps of fire, the cherubs, the 24 elders, and the glassy sea  But John, What do you want to see next? John focuses on the very center of the heavenly scene telling us:  "And I saw in the right hand of the One seated upon the throne a  scroll written and on the reverse side, sealed tight with seven seals.  And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice: 'Who is worthy to open the scroll ad loose its seals.  But neither in heaven nor upon the earth nor underneath the earth was there a single one able to open the scroll or to look into it.  Ad I gave way  to a great deal of weeping because no one was worth to open the scroll or to look into it." - REVELATION 5:1-4. 

Jehovah himself, Sovereign Lord of all creation, is holding out that scroll. It must be full of vital information, for it has written on the front and on the back. Our curiosity is aroused.  What does the scroll contain?  We recall Jehovah's invitation  to John: "Come on up here, and I shall show  you the things that must shortly take place." (Revelation 4:1) With tingling expectation, we look forward to  to learning about those things.  But alas, the scroll is tightly closed, sealed shut with seven seals! 

Will the strong angel find someone worthy to open the scroll?  According to  the Kingdome Interlinear, the scroll is located  "upon the right hand" of Jehovah.  This suggests that he holds it out on his open palm.  But it appears that no one in heaven or one earth is worthy to accept and open that scroll.   Not even  underneath the earth, among faithful servants of who have died, is anyone qualified for this huge honor.  No wonder John is visibly upset!  Perhaps he is not going to learn "the "things that must shortly take place" after all.  In our day God's anointed people have anxiously waited for Jehovah to send forth his light and truth on Revelation.  This he would do progressively  at the appointed time for the prophecy's fulfillment, in order to lead his people in the way of a "grand salvation." - PSALM 43:3, 5. 

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - The Worthy One

From the jw.org publications 

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

 The 24 elders have the same mental attitude that Jesus displays, even  casting their own crowns down before Jehovah.  It is furthest from their minds to exalt themselves in the presence of God.  They humbly recognize that the only purpose  of their kingship is to bring honor and glory to him, just as Jesus does. (Philippians 2:5, 6, 9-11)   Submissively, they acknowledge their own inferiority and confess that their rulership  is dependent on the sovereignty of Jehovah.  Thus, they are  in heartfelt harmony with the cherubs and the rest of faithful creation in giving praise and  glory to the God who created all things. - PSALM 150:1-6.

Who can remain unmoved at reading John's accout of this vision?  It is splendorous, grand!  But, what must the reality be like?  Jehovah's very majesty must enliven anyone with an appreciative heart to join the four living creatures and the 24 elders in praising Him, both in prayer and by publicly  proclaiming his name.  This is the God for whom Christians are privileged to be witnesses today.   (Isaiah 43; 10)   Remember that John's vision applies  to the Lord's day, where we are now.  "The seven spirits" are  ever at hand to guide and strengthen us.  (Galatians 5:16-18)  God's Word is available today to help us to be holy in serving a holy God.  (1 Peter 1:14-16)  Certainly, we happy to read about the words of this prophecy.  (Revelation 1:3)  What an inducement they provide to be faithful to Jehovah and not allow the world to distract us from actively singing his praises! - 1 John 2:15-17.

So far, John has described what he sees when he is invited to approach through that  opened door in heaven.  Most outstandingly, he reports that Jehovah, in all the magnificence of His majesty and dignity, is seated on His celestial throne.  He is surrounded  by the mightiest of all organizations-radiant  in its splendor and loyalty. The divine Court is in session.  (Daniel 7:9, 10, 18)  The stage is set for something extraordinary to  happen.  What is ii, and how does this affect us  today?  Let us watch as the scene unfolds!

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" 

From the jw.org publications

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Throne - Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

 John continues his description:  "And the four living creatures, each one of them respectively has six wings; round about and  underneath they are full of eyes.  And they have no rest day and night as they sat: 'Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming." (Revelation 4:8)  This fullness of eyes suggests complete and far-sighted vision.   The four living creatures exercise this  unceasingly, as they have no need   of sleep.  They intimate the One it is written:  "As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through the earth to show his strength in behalf of those who heart is compete toward him." (Chronicles 16:9)   Having so great a number of eyes, the cherubs can see everywhere.  Nothing escapes their attention.  Thus they are well-equipped to serve God  in his work of judging.   Of him it is said: "The eyes of Jehovah are in every place keeping watch upon the bad ones and the good ones." (Proverbs 15:3)  And with three pairs of wings-the number three being used in the Bible for emphasis -the cherubs can move with lightning swiftness to herald Jehovah's judgments and execute them. 

Listen Melodious. soul stirring, is the song of praise that the cherubs  render to Jehovah:  "Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty, who was, who is, and who is coming."  Again, the threeness  indicates intensity.  The cherubs  strongly affirm the holiness of Jehovah God. He is the Source and ultimate Standard of holiness. He is also "The King of eternity, always "the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."  (1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 22:13)   The cherubs take no rest periods as they proclaim the matchless qualities of Jehovah before all creation.

The heavens of heaven resounds with praise to Jehovah!  John's description continues:  "And whenever the living creatures offer glory and honor and thansgiving to the one seated upon the throne, the one that lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before the One seated on the throne and worship  the One that lives forever and ever, and they cast their crowns  before the throne, saying:  "You are worthy, Jehovah, even our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because  of your will they existed and were created."' (Revelation 4:9-11)   In all Scripture, this is one of the grandest   declarations of homage to Jehovah, our God and Sovereign Lord!

Next timer: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Praises Sing Out

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The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Behold - "Four Living Creatures

 John now observes another feature.  He writes:  "And in the midst of the throne and around the throne there are four living creatures that are full of eyes in front and behind." - Revelation 4:5b)

What do these creatures picture?  A vision reported by another prophet, Ezekiel, helps us to find the answer.  Ezekiel saw Jehovah enthroned on a celestial  chariot, which was accompanied by living creatures embodying  characteristics similar described by John.  (Ezekiel 1:5-11, 22-18)  Later, Ezekiel again saw that chariot throne accompanied by the living creatures.   This time, however, he referred to the living creatures as cherubs.  (Ezekiel; 10:9-15)  The four  living creatures that John sees must represent the many cherubs of God-creatures of high rank in his spirit organization.  John would not think it unusual to see cherubs  positioned so close to Jehovah's person, since in the ancient tabernacle arrangement,  two cherubs of gold were displayed upon the lid of the ark of covenant, which represented Jehovah's throne.  From between these cherubs, Jehovah voice issued commandments to the nation. -  EXODS  25:22; PAlm 80:1. 

These four living creatures  are "in the midst  of the throne and around the throne."  Exactly what does this mean?  It could signify that they are positioned around the throne n such a way that one is standing in the middle of each side.  Thus, the translators of Today's English Version paraphrased the original Greek expression in this way: "surrounding the throne on the  on each of its sides>'  Alternatively, the expression could mean that the four living creatures  are in the central position in heaven where the throne is.  Likely, that is why the Jerusalem Bible renders the phrase:  "In the center grouped around the throne itself," The important thing os the closeness of the cheriubs to Jehovah's throne, comparable  to that of the cherubs that Ezekiel saw at each corner of Jehovah's organization organizational chariot.  (Ezekiel 1:55-22)  All of this harmonizes with the words of Psalm 99:1: "Jehovah himself has become king. . . . He is sitting upon the cherubs."  

John continues:  "And the first living creature is like a lion, and second living creature is like a young bull, and third living creature has  a face like a man's, and the fourth living creature is like a flying eagle."  (Revelation  4:7)  Why do these four living creatures look so different, one from another?  These distinctive  living creatures evidently highlight specific godly qualities.  First, there is the lion, a lion is used in the Bible as a symbol of courage, especially in the pursuit of justice and righteousness.  (Samuel 17:10; Proverva 28:1)  Thus, the lion well represents the godly quality of courageous justice.  (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 89:14) The second  living creature resembles a young bull.  What quality does a bull bring to your mind?  To the Israelites the bull was a valuable possession because of its power. (Proverbs 14:4; see also 39:9-11.)   The young bull, then , represents power, dynamich energy as supplied by Jehovah. - PSALM 62:11; ISAIAH 40:26.

The third living creature has a face like a man's. This must represent godlike love, since on earth man alone was created in God's image, with the superlative quality of love.  ( Genesis 1:26-28; Matthew 22:36-40; 1 John 4:8, 16)  Undoubtedly, the cherubs display this quality as they serve around Jehovah's throne.  What now of the fourth living creature?  This one is like  a flying eagle in appearance.  Jehovah himself calls attention to the eagle's great vision:  "Far into the distance, his eyes keep looking." (Job 39:29)   Hence, the eagle well symbolizes farsighted wisdom.  Jehovah is the Source of wisdom. His cherubs exercise diving wisdom as they obey his commands. - PROVERBS 2:6; JAMES 3:17.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Praised Ring Out

From the jw.org publications 

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne -Lamps of Fire and a Glassy Sea

 What does John further see? This: "And there are seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, these mean the seven spirits of God. and before the throne there is, as it were, a glass sea like crystal." (Revelation 4:5b, 6a)  John himself tell us the significance of the seven lamps: "These mean the seven spirits of God." The number seven symbolizes divine completeness; so the seven lamps must represent the fullness of the enlightening force of the holy sprit.  How grateful the John class today is that it has been entrusted with this enlightenment, together with the responsibility  to pass it on to the spiritually hungry peoples of earth!  How glad we are   that each year hundreds of millions of copies of the Watchtower magazine continue  to beam forth this light in about  150 languages! - PSALM 43:3.

John sees also a "glassy sea like crystal."  What would this symbolize with regard to those invited  to  Jehovah's heavenly court?  Paul spoke of the way that Jesus sanctified the  congregation,  "cleansing it with the bath of water by  means of the word." (Ephesians 5:26) Before his death, Jesus told his disciples: "You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you."  (John 15:3) Hence, this glassy sea like crystal must represent the cleansing, recorded  Word of God.  Those of the loyal priesthood who come into Jehovah's presence must have been thoroughly cleansed by his Word.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Behold-"Four Living Creatures"!

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The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders

What does John next see and hear?  "And out of the throne there are proceeding lightnings and voices and thunders." (Revelation 4:5a) How reminiscent of other awesome manifestations of Jehovah's celestial power! For  example, when Jehovah "came down" on Mount Sinai, Moses reported: "On the third day when it became morning it came about that thunders and lightnings  began occurring, and a heavy cloud upon the mountain and a very  loud sound of a horn. . . When the sound of the horn became continually louder and louder; Moses began to speak, and the true God began to answer him with a voice." -EXODUS 19:16-19.

During the Lord's day, Jehovah makes his power and presence manifest in a sublime way.  No, not by literal lightning, for John is seeing signs.  What, then, do the lightnings represent?  Well, flashes of lightning can illuminate, but they can also strike one dead. Therefore, these lightnings issuing from Jehovah's throne  well picture the flashes of enlightenment that he has continually granted his people and, even more significantly, his fiery judgment messages. - PSALM 18:14;144:5, 6; MATTHEW 4:14-17; 24:27. 

What of the voices?  During Jehovah's descent onto Mount Sinai, a voice spoke to Moses. (Exodus 19:19)   Voices from  heaven issued many of he commands  and proclamations in the book of Revelation.  (Revelation 4:1; 10:4, 8; 11:12; 12:10; 14:13; 16:1, 17; 18:4; 19:5; 21:3)  Today, Jehovah has also issued commands and proclamations to his people, illuminating their understanding  of Bible prophecies and principles.  Enlightening information has often been disclosed at international conventions and such Bible truths have in turn, been proclaimed worldwide.  The apostle Paul said of faithful preachers of the good news:  "Why, in fact, 'Into all the earth their sound went out, and to the extremities of the inhabited earth their utterances." - ROMANS 10:18,

Thunder actually follows lightning.  David referred to literal thunder as "the voice of Jehovah, (Psalm 29:3, 4)  When Jehovah fought for David against his enemies, thunder was said to come from Him.  (2 Samuel 222:14; Psalm 18:13) Elihu told Job that Jehovah's voice sounded like the thunder, as He "does great things that we cannot know."  (Job 37:4, 5)  During this part of the Lord's day, Jehovah  has "thundered warning  of these great acts he will perform against his enemies. These symbolic peals of thunder have echoed and reechoed throughout the earth.  Happy you are if you have paid attention to these thunderous proclamations and are making wise use of your tongue in adding to their volume." - ISAIAH 50:4, 5; 6:1, 2.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lamps of Fire and a Glassy Sea

From the jw.org publications 

 

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Identifying the Elders

 John knew that priests were appointed to serve in the ancient tabernacle.  So he may have been surprised a seeing what he describes next: "And round about the throne there are twenty-four thrones, and upon these thrones I saw seated  twenty-four elders dressed in white outer garments, and upon their heads  golden crowns." - (Revelation 4:4)  Yes, instead of priests, there are 24 elders, enthroned and crowned like kings.  Who are these elders?  They are none other than anointed ones of the Christian congregation, resurrected  and occupying the heavenly position Jehovah promised them.  How do we know that?

First of all, they are wearing crowns.  The Bible speaks of anointed Christians as gaining 'an incorruptible crown'  and attaining  to an endless life-immortality.  (1 Corinthians 9:25; 15:53, 54)  But since these 24 elders are sitting on thrones, the golden crowns   in this context represents royal authority.  ( Compare Revelation 6:2; 14:14.)   This supports the conclusion that the 24 elders portray Jesus' anointed footstep followers in their heavenly position, for Jesus made a covenant with them to sit on the thrones in his Kingdom.   (Luke 22:28-30)  Only Jesus and these 24 elders-not even the angels-are described as ruling in heaven with Jehovah's presence.

This harmonizes with the promise that Jesus made to the Laodicean congregation:"  "To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne." (Revelation 3:21) But the heavenly assignment of the 24  elders is not limited to governmental rule.  In the introduction to the book Revelation, John said of Jesus: "He made us to be a kingdom, priest to his God and Father." (Revelation1:5,6)  These ones are both kings and priests.  "They will be priests of God and of Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years." - REVELATION 20:6.

What is significant about the number 24, in that John sees 24 elders around the throne?  In many respects, these were  foreshadowed by the faithful priest of ancient Israel.  The apostle Peter wrote to anointed Christians:  "You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession." (1 Peter 2:9) Interestingly, that ancient Jewish  priesthood came to be divided into 24 divisions. Each division was  assigned its own weeks in the year to serve before Jehovah, so that sacred service  was rendered without a break.  (1 Chronicles 24:5-19)  It is fitting, then, that there are  24 elders depicted in John's vision of the heavenly priesthood because this priesthood  serves Jehovah continually, without ceasing.  When completed, there 24 divisions, each with 6 conquerors, for Revelation 14:1-4 tells us that 144,000 (24x6,000) are  "bought from among mankind" to stand on the heavenly Mount Zion with the Lamb Jesus Christ.  Since the number 12 signifies a divinely balanced organization, 24 doubles-or strenthens-such an arrangement.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders

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The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Resplendent Presence

 What does John see?  Listen, as he now shares with us his grand experience:  "After these things I immediately came to be in the power of the spirit; and look! a throne was in its position in heaven, and there seated upon the throne." (Revelation 4:2) In an instant of time, John is spiritually transported  by God's active force to the very throne of Jehovah.  How thrilling for John!  Here he is given a dazzling preview of those very heavens wherein he and other anointed Christians have reserved for the "an incorruptible  and undefiled and unfading inheritance." (1 Peter 1:3-5; Philippians 3:20)  For those whose hope it is to live forever on earth, John's vision also has profound meaning.  It helps them to comprehend the glory of Jehovah's presence and of the heavenly ruling structure used by Jehovah in judging the nations and afterward in governing humans lives on earth.  Jehovah is indeed the God of superb organization! 

Much of what John observes up there in heaven resembles features of the tabernacle in the wilderness.  This was constructed about 1,600 years  earlier as a sanctuary of true worship for the Israelites.  In the Holy of Holies of that tabernacle was the ark of the covenant, and it was from above the solid gold cover of that Ark that Jehovah himself spoke.  (Exodus 25:17-22; Hebrews 9:5) Hence, the cover of the Ark served as a symbol of Jehovah's throne. John now sees the reality of that symbolic representation:  the Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself sitting in exquisite grandeur on is lofty heavenly throne!

Unlike earlier prophets who had visions of Jehovah's throne, John does not describe in detail the Holy One who occupies it. ( Ezekiel 1:26, 27; Daniel 7:9, 10) But John gives us his  impression of the enthroned One in these words:  "And the one seated is, in appearance, like a jasper stone and a precious red-colored stone, and round about the throne there is a rainbow like and emerald in appearance." (Revelation 4:3)  What incomparable magnificence! John perceives a serene, scintillating beauty like that of lustrous gleaming gemstones.  How appropriately this s with the disciple James' description of Jehovah as "the Father of the celestial lights"? (James 1:17)  Shortly after writing Revelation, John himself stated: "God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him.  (1 John 1:5)   What a supremely  glorious Personage Jehovah really is! 

Notice that John sees around the throne a rainbow, colored emerald green.  The Greek word  here  translates rainbow (ir'is) suggests a completely circular form.  The rainbow first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Noah's day. After the waters of the Deluge subsided, Jehovah caused a rainbow to appear in the cloud, and he explained what it symbolized in these words: "My rainbow I do give in the cloud, and it must serve as a sign  of the covenant between you and every living soul among all flesh; and no more will the waters become a deluge to bring all flesh to ruin," (Genesis 9:13, 15) What, then, would the heavenly vision bring to John's mind?  The rainbow that he saw   must have reminded him  of  the need for  a peaceful relationship with Jehovah, such as the John class enjoys today.  It would also impress him with the serenity and peace of Jehovah's presence, a serenity that will extend to all obedient humans when Jehovah spreads his tent over mankind in the new earth society. - PSALM 119:165; PHILIPPIANS 4:7; REVELATION 21:1-4.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Identifying the 24 Elders

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The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne

 Vision 2 -REVELATION 4:-5:14.

Subject: Awesome happenings before God's throne of judgment

Time of fulfillment:  This vision features events taking place from 1914 until the end of the Millennium and beyond, when every creature that is in heaven and on earth will praise Jehovah.- REVELATION  5:13. 

JOHN begins to share with us further soul-stirring visions.  By inspiration he is still in the Lord's day.  So, what he describes has deep meaning for us who are actually living in that day.  By means of these visions, Jehovah lifts the veil of invisibility on heavenly realities and gives us his own view of his judgments to be executed on earth.  Moreover, whether we have a heavenly or an earthly hope, these revelations help us to see our  place in Jehovah's purpose.  All of us, therefore, should continue to be keenly interested  in John's expression:  "Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and who observe the things written in it." - REVELATION 1:3.

What John next beholds surpasses anything by video to modern man!  He writes:  "After these things I saw, and, look! and opened door in heaven, and the first voice that I heard was of a trumpet, speaking with me, saying: 'Come up here and I will show you the things that must shortly take place." (Revelation 4:1) John in vision penetrates the invisible heavens of Jehovah's presence, exalted far above physical outer space as explored  by human astronauts, even far above the galaxies of the material universe.  As though by entering an opened door, John is invited to feast his eyes on a breathtaking panorama of the ultimate spirit heavens where Jehovah himself is enthroned.  (Psalm 11:4; Isaiah 66:1)  What a privilege! 

The Bible  does not identify this "first voice.  Like Jesus' strong voice heard earlier, it has a commanding trumpetlike sound.  (Revelation 1:10, 11) It brings to mind the penetrating blast that signaled Jehovah's presence at Mount Sinai.  (Exodus 19:18-20) Undoubtedly, Jehovah is the majestic Source of the summons.   (Revelation 1:1)   He has opened the door so that John, in vision, can enter the most holy location in all the vast realm of Jehovah's sovereignty.

Next time:  The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Resplendent Presence

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Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEA - A Throne for the Conquerors

Jesus speaks of a further reward, saying:  "To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne, even as I conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne." (Revelation 3:21)   In fulfillment of David's words,  at  Psalm 110:1, 2, the integrity-keeping Jesus, having conquered the world, was resurrected in 33 C.E. and exalted to sit down with his Father on His Heavenly throne.  (Acts 2:32, 33)  In another crucial year, 1914, Jesus arrived to sit down on his own Messianic throne as King and Judge.  The judgment evidently began in 1918 with professed Christians. Anointed conquerors who died before that time would then be resurrected and join Jesus in his Kingdom.  (1 Peter 4:17)  He had promised this to them when instituting the Memorial of his death, saying to his disciples:  "I make a covenant with you, just as my Father has made a covenant with me, for  kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel." - LUKE 22:28-30.

What a marvelous arrangement-to sit with the reigning King during "the re-creation  " and share with him, on the basis of his perfect sacrifice, in raising the world o obedient mankind to Edenic perfection!  (Matthew 19:28; 20:28) As John informs us, Jesus makes those who conquer to be "a kingdom, priests to his God and Father," to occupy thrones around Jehovah's own magnificent throne.  (Revelation 1:6; 4:4)  Let all of us-whether of the anointed or of the new earth society that hopes   to share in restoring Paradise-to take heart the words of Jesus to the Laodiceans! - 2 PETER 3:13; ACTS 3:19-21.

As with previous messages, Jesus ends this one with words of exhortation:  "Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations." (Revelation 3:22)   We are living deep in the time of the end.  The evidence is all around us that Christendom is cold as far as love in concerned.  In contrast, may we as true Christians respond fervently to Jesus' message to the congregation in Laodicea, yes, to all seven of our Lord's messages to the congregations.  This we can do by having a vigorous share in the fulfillment of Jesus' great prophecy for our day: And this good news of the kingdom will  be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." - MATTHEW 24:12-14.

Jesus' counsel to the seven congregations is ended.  He does not speak to John again in Revelation until the final chapter; but he participates in many of the visions, for example, in executing Jehovah's  judgments.  Let us now join the John class in examining the second remarkable vision revealed by the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Materialism Verses Wisdom

Back in 1956, a news columnist wrote:  "It is estimated that  a century ago the average man had 72 wants, of which 16 were  regarded as necessities.  Today, the average man is estimated to have 474 wants, 94 of which are regarded as necessities.  A century ago, 200 articles  were urged upon the average man by salesmanship-but today there are 32,000 articles which require sales resistance.  Man's necessities are few-his wants, infinite."  Today, people are bombarded with the idea that material wealth and possessions are the principal thing in life.  Thus, many come to ignore the wise advice of Ecclesiastes 7:12: "Wisdom is for a protection the same as money is for a protection, but the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners. 

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne

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Buy God Refined by Fire/ LAODICEANS - "Taking the Evening Meal"

 Jesus goes on to say: "Look! I am standing at the door and knocking.  If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into his house and take the evening meal with him and he with me."  (Revelation 3:20)  If the Laodicean Christians will only welcome Jesus into their congregation, he will help them to overcome their lukewarmness! - MATTHEW 18:20.

Jesus' mention of the evening meal doubtless reminds  the Laodiceans of the times when he ate meals with his disciples.  (John 12:1-8)  Such occasions always brought spiritual blessings for those present.  Likewise, there notable occasions after Jesus' resurrection when he was present at a mean with his disciples, which occasions greatly strengthened them.  (Luke 24:28-32; John 21:9-19)  Hence, his promise to come into the Laodicean Congregation and take the evening meal with them is a promise to being them rich spiritual benefits if only they will receive him. 

Jesus' loving exhortation to the Laodiceans has great significance for the remaining anointed Christians today.   Some of these remember that, as the Lord's day began, Christendom's religionists were lukewarm  to an appalling degree.  Instead of welcoming  our Lord's return in  1914, her clergy got embroiled in the slaughter of World War I, in which 24 of the 28 contending nations claimed to be Christian.  How great the bloodguilt!  During World War II, which was also fought largely in Christendom, false religion's sins again "massed together clear up to heaven."  (Revelation 18:5)   Further, the clergy have turned their back on Jehovah's coming Kingdom by supporting the League of Nations, the United Nations, and nationalistic, revolutionary movements, none of which can solve mankind's problems.  Jesus has long since rejected the clergy, judging  them adversely and throwing them away, just as a fisherman disposes of unsuitable fish caught in his dragnet.  The  miserable plight of Christendom's churches today testifies to  that judgment of her. May her eventual fate serve as warning to us! - MATTHEW 13:47-50.

Even within the true congregation, there have been lukewarm individuals who are like a drink that is neither stimulatingly hot nor refreshingly cold. But Jesus still warmly loves his congregation.  He makes himself available to Christians who respond hospitably, and many have welcomed him , as though to an evening meal.  As a result, from 1919 onward their eyes have opened to the meaning of  Bible prophecies.  They have enjoyed a period of great enlightenment. - PSALM 97:11; 2 PETER 1:19.

In addressing the Laodiceans, Jesus may also have had another evening meal in mind.  Later in Revelation we read:  "Happy are those invited to the evening meal of the Lamb's marriage."  This is the majestic victory banquet  in praise  of Jehovah after he has executed judgment on false religion-a banquet shared in by Christ and his completed bride of 144,000 in heaven.  (Revelation 19:1-9)  Responsive members of that ancient Laodicean congregation-yes, and faithful  brothers of Christ Jesus today, who wear clean garments of identification as genuine anointed Christians-will feast with their Bridegroom at that evening meal. (Matthew 22:2-13)   What a powerful inducement to be zealous and repent!

Next time: Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEANS - A Throne for the Conquerors

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Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEA -Benefiting From Reproof and Discipline

 Let us return to the Laodiceans.  How will they respond to the severe counsel from Jesus? Should they be disheartened and feel that Jesus wants them as his followers?  No, that is not the case at all.  The message goes on to say:  "All those for whom I have affection I reprove and discipline.  Therefore be zealous and repent." (Revelation 3:19) As with discipline from Jehovah, Jesus' discipline is a sign of his love. (Hebrews 12:4-7) The Laodicean congregation should take advantage of his affectionate concern and apply his counsel.  They should repent, recognizing that their lukewarmness   amounts to sinning.  (Hebrews 3:12, 13; James 4:17)   Let their elders put materialistic ways behind them and "stir up like a fire" the gift they have from God.  With the spiritual eye salve take effect, let all the congregation find refreshment as from a cooling draft of cold spring water. - 2 TIMOTHY 1:6; PROVERBS 3:5-8; LUKE 21:34.

What of us today?  Jesus continues to 'love his own that are in the world.'  This he will do "all the days until the conclusion of the system of things."  (John 13:1; Matthew 28:20) His love and affection are displayed through the modern-day John class and the stars, or elders, in the Christian congregation.  (Revelation 1:20)   In these very trying times, the elders are deeply interested in helping all of us, old and young,  to keep within the confines of the theocratic fold, resisting the independence, the materialistic greed, and immoral filth of the world.  If we receive strong counsel or discipline at times, remember that "the reproofs of discipline are the way of life. "  (Proverbs 6:23) All of us are imperfect and should be zealous to repent as necessary so that we may be readjusted and remain in God's love. - 2 CORINTHIANS 13:11.

We must not allow materialism,  riches, or the lack of riches to make us lukewarm.  Wealth can aid in opening up new possibilities of service, but it can also be dangerous.  (Matthew 19:24)   A well-to-do person  may feel that he doe snot need to be as zealous in the preaching work as others, provided that he makes a sizable donation  from time to time. Or he may feel that being wealthy entitles him to favors.  Additionally, there are many pleasures and pastimes open to wealthy person that others cannot afford. But those diversions take up time and may draw the unwary away from the Christian ministry, thus making the indiscreet one lukewarm.  May we all avoid such snares and keep "working hard and exerting ourselves" wholeheartedly, with everlasting life in view. - 1 TIMOTHY 4:8-10; 6:9-12. 

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Buy God Refined by Fire/LAODICEA - Applying Spiritual Eye Salve

Jesus also sternly admonishes those Laodiceans: "Buy , . . white outer garments that you may become dressed and that the shame of your nakedness may not become manifested, and eye salve to rub in your eyes that you may see." (Revelation 3:18b)   They should seek a cure for their spiritual blindness by purchasing curative eye salve, not that of the local healers, but of the kind that only Jesus can provide.  This would help them to get spiritual discernment, helping them to walk in "the path of the righteous ones"  with their beaming eyes focused on doing God's will.  (Proverbs 4:18 25-27)  Thus, they may put on, not the costly garments of black wool made locally in Laodicea, but fine "white outer garments" that proclaim their privileged identity as followers of Jesus Christ. - Compare 1 TIMOTHY 2:9, 10; 1 PETER 3:3-5. 

Is spiritual eyes salve available in modern times? Assuredly it is!  In 1879 Pastor Russell, as he was affectionately called, began to publish in defense of truth the magazine that is known worldwide as The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah's Kingdom.  In its second issue, he declared: "[This magazine] has, we believe, Jehovah for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support.  When He who says:  'All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,' fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend publication." Some television evangelists have amassed vast fortunes and lived in shameless (and sometimes immoral) luxury.  (Revelation 18:3)  In contrast, the Bible  Students, known today as Jehovah's Witnesses,  have used all the unsolicited contributions  received to organize and advice the worldwide preaching of Jehovah's incoming Kingdom.  The John class to this day directs the publishing of the Watchtower and Awake! which magazines had a combined  circulation in 2006 of more than 59 million.  The Watchtower is  available in about 150 languages.  It is the official journal of a congregation of more than six million Christians  who have used such spiritual eye salve in getting their eyes opened to false religion and to urgency of preaching the good news in all the  nations. - MARK 13:10. 

Next time: Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEA - Benefiting From Reproof and Discipline

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Buy God Refined by Fire/LAODICEA -Counsel on 'Becoming Rich'

 Is there a cure for the sad situation in Laodicea?  Yes, if those Christians will follow Jesus'  counsel:  "I advise you  to buy from me gold refined by fire that you may become rich." (Revelation 3:18a) True Christian "gold,"  refined by fire and with all the dross removed, will make them "rich" toward God." (Luke 12:21) Where can they buy such gold?  Not from the local bankers but from Jesus!  The apostle Paul explained what the gold is when he told Timothy to give orders to wealthy Christians  "to work at good, to be rich in fine works, to be liberal, ready to share, safely treasuring up for themselves a find foundation for the future."  Only by expending themselves  in this way could they "get a firm hold on the real life." (1 Timothy 6;17-19)   The materially wealthy Laodiceans should have followed Paul's advice and thus become spiritually rich. - See also PROVERBS 3:13-18.

Are there modern-day examples of those buying "gold refined by fire"? Yes, there are!  Even while the Lord's day was approaching,  a small group of Bible students was awakening to the falsity of Christendom's many Babylonish teachings, such as the Trinity, immorality of the soul, hellfire torment, infant baptism, and worship of images (including the cross and of those of Mary).  In championing the Bible truth, these Christians  proclaimed Jehovah's Kingdom as mankind's only hope and Jesus' ransom sacrifice as the basis for salvation.  Almost 40 years ahead of time, they pointed to 1014 as the year marked  in Bible prophecy as the end of the times of the Gentiles, accompanied by startling developments on earth. - REVELATION 1:10.

Taking the lead among these awakening Christians was Charles T. Russell, who, in the early 1870's, formed a Bible study class in Allegheny (now part of Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania, U.S.A.  When he started his search for truth, Russell was in  partnership with his father and on his way to becoming a millionaire.  But he sold out  his chain-store business interests and spent his fortune in  helping us finance  the publishing of God's Kingdom in all the earth.  In 1884 Russell became the first president of the corporation now known as the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania.  In 1916 he died on a train near Pampa, Texas, en route to New York, exhausted by his preaching tour of the western United States.  He set an outstanding example of storing up spiritual treasures in heaven,  an example that is today followed by hundreds of thousands of self-sacrificing pioneer ministers. - HEBREWS 13:7; LUKE 12:33, 34; compare 1 CORINTHIANS 9:16; 11:1. 

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Buy God Refined by Fire/Laodicea - 'You Say, I Am Rich'"

 What really is the root of the Laodicean's problem?  We get a good idea from Jesus' next words:  "Because you say: 'I am rich and have acquired riches and do not need anything at all,' but you do not know that you are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked." (Revelation 3:17; compare Luke 12:16-21.)  Living in a wealthy city, they feel confident because of their riches.  Likely, their way of life has been affected by the stadium, theaters, and gymnasiums, so that they have become "lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God." (2 Timothy 3:4)  But the materially rich Laodiceans are impoverished spiritually.  They have few, if any, 'treasures stored up in heaven.' (Matthew 6:19-21)   They have not kept their eye simple, giving first place in their lives to God's Kingdom.  They are really in darkness, blind, with no spiritual vision.  (Matthew 6:22, 23, 33)  Moreover, in spite of the fine garments that their material wealth may have purchased, in Jesus' eyes they are naked.  They have not spiritual garments to identify them as Christians. - Compare REVELATION 16:15.

What a shocking condition!  But do we not see a similar situation nowadays?  What is the root cause?  It is a self-confident attitude that springs from reliance upon material possessions and human sources.  Like Christendom's churchgoers, some of Jehovah's people have deceived themselves, thinking that the can please God by merely attending meeting occasionally.  They try to get by as merely token "doers of the word."  (James 1:22)  Despite repeated warning from the John class, they set their hearts on stylish clothes, cars and homes, and on a life centered on recreation and pleasure.  (1 Timothy 6:9,10; 1 John 2:15-17)   All of this results in a dulling of spiritual perception.  (Hebrews 5:11, 12)  Instead of being listlessly lukewarm, they need to rekindle  "the fire of the spirit" and show refreshing eagerness to "preach the word." - 1 THESSALONIANA 5:19; 2 TIMOTHY 4:2, 5. 

How does Jesus regard lukewarm Christians?  His candid words should jolt them: "You do not know that you are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked."  Their consciences are numbed to the point that they do not even realize their appalling state.  (Compare Proverbs 16:2; 21:2.)  This serious condition in the congregation cannot be lightly brushed aside.  By setting a fine example of zeal and by shepherding in love, elders and others assigned to them may be able to awaken these straying "sheep" to their former joy of wholehearted service. - LUKE 15:3-7.

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Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEA- Conclusion

 Why does Jesus call himself "the Amen"?  This title adds judicial weight to his message. "Amen" is a translation of a Hebrew word meaning "surely," "so be it," and is used a the end of prayers to affirm the sentiments expressed therein.  (1 Corinthians 14:16)  Jesus is "the Amen" because  his flawless integrity and sacrificial death confirmed and guaranteed the fulfillment of all of Jehovah's precious promises.  (2 Corinthians 1:20)  Since that time, all prayers are properly addressed to Jehovah through Jesus. - JOHN 15:16; 16:23, 24. 

Jesus is also "the faithful and true witness."  In prophecy he is often associated  with faithfulness, truth, and righteousness, for he is completely trustworthy as a servant of Jehovah God.  ( PSALM 45:4; ISAIAH 11:4, 5; REVELATION 1:5; 19:11)  He is the greatest Witness for Jehovah.  In fact, as "the beginning of the creation by God," Jesus had declared God's glory from the very start.  (Proverbs 8:22-30)  As a man on earth, he bore witness to the truth.  (John 18:36, 37; 1 Timothy 6:13)  After his resurrection, he promised holy spirit to his disciples and told them:  "You'll be witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth."  From Pentecost 33  C.E. onward, Jesus directed these anointed Christians  in preaching the good news "in all creation that is under heaven."  (Acts 1:6-8; Colossians 1:23)  Truly Jesus deserves to be called the faithful and true witness.  The anointed Christians in Laodicea would benefit by listening to his words. 

What message does Jesus have for the Laodiceans?  He has no word of commendation. Frankly, he tells them: "I know your deeds, that you are neither hot nor cold.  I wish you were cold or else hot. So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vimit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15, 16)  How would you respond to such a message from the Lord Jesus Christ?  Would you not awaken and examine yourself? Surely, those Laodiceans need to bestir themselves, for they have become spiritually, indolent, apparently taking too much for granted.  (Compare  2 Corinthians  6:1.)  Jesus, whom  they as Christians should have imitated, always  displays a fiery zeal for Jehovah and his service.  (John 2:17)   Further, meek ones have found him to be always gently and mild, as refreshing as a cup of cold water on a sweltering day.  (Matthew 11:28, 29) But the Christians in Laodicea are neither hot nor cold.  Like the waters that flow into their city, they become tepid, lukewarm.  They are liable to be completely rejected by Jesus,  'vomited out of his mouth'!   May we for out part always strive zealously, as did Jesus, provide spiritual refreshment for others. -  MATTHEW 9:35-38.

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