Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Throne - Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders - Conclusion

 Thunder usually 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 22:14; Psalm 18:13) Elihu told Job that Jehovah's voice sounded like 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 the 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 added to their volume! - ISAIAH 50:4, 5; 61:1, 2. 

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders - Continue

 What of the voices? During Jehovah's descent onto Mount Sinai, a voice spoke to Moses. (Exodus 19:10) Voices from heaven issued many of the commands and proclamations i the book of Revelation. (Revelation 4:1; 104:8; 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.

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

 What does Jehovah next see and hear? "And out of the throne there are proceeding lightnings, 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 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 lightning 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. - Compare PSALM18:14; 144:5, 6; MATTHEW 4:14-17; 24:27. 

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Identifying the 24 Elders - Conclusion

 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 priests 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 cam to be divided into 24 divisions. Each division came to be assigned to 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 will 24 divisions each with 6,000 conquerors, for Revelation 14:1-4 tells us that 144,000 (24x6000) 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 strengthens-such an arrangement.

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Identifying the 24 Elders -Continue

 First of all, they are wearing crowns. The Bible speaks of anointed Christians as gaining 'a incorruptible crown' 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 represent 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 thrones in his Kingdom. (Luke 22:28-30) Only Jesus and these 24 elders-not even the angels-are described as ruling in heaven in 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 of Revelation, John said of Jesus: "He made us to be a kingdom, priests to his God and Father." (Revelation 1:5, 6) These ones are both kings and priests. "They will be priests of God and Christ and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years." -REVELATION 20:6. 

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Identifying the 24 Elders

 John knew that priests were appointed to serve in the ancient tabernacle. So he may have been surprised at 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. What 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?

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Resplendent Presence - Conclusion

 Notice that John sees around the throne a rainbow, colored emerald green. The Greek word here translated rainbow (ir'is) suggests a completely circular form. The rainbow is 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 me and the earth. And I shall certainly remember my covenant which is between me and you and ever 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 that will extend to all obedient humans in the new earth society. - PSALM 119:165; PHILIPPIANS 4:7; REVELATION 21:1-4.

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Resplendent Presence - Continue

 Much of what John observes up there in heaven resembles features of the tabernacle in the wilderness. This was constructed about 1,600 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; Hebrew 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 his 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 an emerald in appearance." (Revelation 4:3) What incomparable magnificence! John perceives a serene, scintillating beauty like that of lustrous, gleaming, gemstones. How appropriately this agrees with the disciple Jame's description of Jehovah as "the Father of 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 superbly glorious personage Jehovah really is!

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Chapter Fourteen/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 is one 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 them "an incorruptible and undefiled and unfading inheritance." (1 Peter 1:3-5; Philippians 3:20) For those who hope it is to live forever on earth, John's vision has also 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 human lives on earth. Jehovah is indeed the God of superb organization! 

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Conclusion

 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 horn 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.

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Continue

 What John next beholds surpasses anything presented by video to 20th-century man! He writes: "After these things I saw, and look! an opened door in heaven, and the first voice that I heard was of a trumpet, speaking with me, saying: 'Come on up here, and I shall show you the things that must take place.' " (Revelation 4:1) 'John in vision penetrates the invisible heavens of Jehovah's presence, exalted far above the physical outer space as explored by modern astronauts, even far above the galaxies of the material universe. As though by entering an opened door, John as 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! 

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Chapter Fourteen/The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne

 JOHN begins to share with further soul-stirring visions. B inspiration he is still in the Lord's day. So, what he describes has deep meaning for us who are actually still 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 relationships 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.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire -A Throne for the Conquerors - Conclusion

 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 congregation." (Revelation 3:22) We are living deep in the time of the end. The evidence is all around all 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 kingdoms 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. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - A Throne for the Conquerors - Continue

 What a marvelous assignment-to sit with the reigning King during "re-creation and share with him, on the basis of his perfect sacrifice, in raising the world of obedient mankind in 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 heavenly 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-take to heart the words of Jesus to the Laodiceans! - 2 PETER 3:13; ACTS 3:19-21. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - 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 began in 1918 with professed Christians.  Anointed conquerors who died before that time would then be resurrected and join Jesus in his Kingdom. (Matthew 25:31; 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 a 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 22:28-3o. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire -'Taking the Evening Meal' - Conclusion

 Even within the true congregation, there has 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 been 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 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 Jesus Christ today, who wear clean garments of identification as genuine anointed Christians- will all feast with their bridegroom at that evening meal. (Matthew 22:2-13) What a powerful inducement to be zealous and repent!

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - 'Taking the Evening Meal' -Continue

 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 their bloodguilt! During World War II, which was also fought largely in Christendom, false religions sins again "massed together clear up to heaven." (Revelation 18:5) Further, the clergy have turned their back on Jehovah's incoming Kingdom by supporting the League of Nations, the United States, and nationalistic, revolutionary movements, none of which can solve mankind's problems. Jesus has long since rejected the clery. Judging them adversely and throwing them away, just as fishermen 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 a warning to us! - MATTHEW 13:47-50.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - '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. (John12:1-8) Such occasions always brought spiritual blessings for those present. Likewise, there were notable occasions after Jesus' resurrection when he was present at a meal with his disciples, which occasions greatly strengthened him. (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 bring them rich spiritual benefits if only they will receive him. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Benefiting From Reproof and Discipline - Conclusion

 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 does not need to be as zealous in the preaching work as others, provided that he makes sizable donations from time to time. Or he may feel that being wealthy entitles him to favors. Additionally, there are many pleasures and pastimes open to a 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 avoid all 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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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Benefiting From Reproof and Discipline - Continue

 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 the 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.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - 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 no longer 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 taking effect, let in all the congregation find refreshment as from a cooling draft of cold springwater. - 2 TIMOTHY1:6; PROVERBS 3:5-8; LUKE 21:34. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire -Applying Spiritual Eye Salve - Conclusion

Is spiritual eye 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 today 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: 'When all this gold and silver of the mountains are mine,' fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication." Some 20th century television evangelists have amassed vast fortunes and lived in shameless(and sometimes immoral) luxury. (Compare Revelation 18:3) In contrast, the Bible Students, known today as the Jehovah's Witnesses, have used all the unsolicited contributions received to organize and advance 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 1988 of more than 20 million. The Watchtower is available in more than a hundred languages. It is the official journal of a congregation of more than three million Christians who have used such spiritual eye salve in getting their eyes opened to false religion and to the urgency of preaching good news of in all the nations. - MARK 13:10

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire- Applying Spiritual Salve

Jesus also sternly admonishes those Laodiceans: "Buy . . .white outer garments that you may become dressed and the shame of your nakedness may not become manifested, and eye salve to run in your eyes that you may see." (Revelation 3:18b) They should seek a cure for their spiritual blindness by purchasing curative eye slave, not that of the local healers, but 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. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire-Counsel on 'Becoming Rich' " - Conclusion

 Taking the lead among these awakening Christians was Charles Taze Russell, who, in the early 1870's, formed a Bible study class in Allegheny (now part if Pittsburg), 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 to finance the publishing of God's Kingdom in all the earth. In 1884 Russell became the first president of the cooperation now known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. In 1916 he died on a train near El Paso, Texas, en route to New York, exhausted by his final preaching tour of the western United States. He set an outstanding example of storing up spiritual treasures in heaven, an example of that is followed by hundreds of thousands of self-sacrificing pioneering ministers in these late 1900's. -HEBREWS 13:7; LUKE 12:33,34; compare 1 CORINTHIANS 9:16, 11:1. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Counsel on 'Becoming Rich' " - Continue

 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 those of Mary). In championing Bible truth, these Christians proclaimed Jehovah's Kingdom as mankind's only hope and Jesus' ransom sacrifice as the basis for salvation. Almost 49 years ahead of time, they pointed to 1914 as the year marked in the Bible prophecy as the end of the times of Gentiles, when civil and ecclesiastical powers would be shaken.  -REVELATION 1:10; LUKE 21:24-26, King James Version. 

Next time: Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Counsel on 'Becoming Rich' " - Conclusion

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - 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 3:18b) 'True Christian "gold," refined by fire 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 that 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 the "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 5:13-18.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - "You Say: 'I Am Rich' " -

 What a shocking condition! But do we not often 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 resources, like Christendom's church goers, some of Jehovah's people have deceived themselves thinking they can please God by merely attending meetings occasionally.  They try to get by as mere token "doers of the word." (James 1:22) Despite repeated warnings 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 THESSALONIANS 5:19; 2 TIMOTHY4:2, 5. 

How does Jesus regard lukewarm Christians? His candid words should jolt them: "You do not know 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 by them may be able to awaken these straying "sheep" to their former joy of wholehearted service. - LUKE 15:3-7.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - "You Say: 'I Am Rich' "

 What really is the root of the Laodiceans' problem? We get a good idea from Jesus' next words: "Because you say: 'I am rich and have acquired riches do not need anything at all,' but you do not know your 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 no spiritual garments to identify them as Christians. - Compare REVELATION 16:15. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire

 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 cold nor hot. But I wish you cold or else hot. So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth." (Revelation3:15, 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 gentle and mild, as refreshing as a cup of cold water on a sweltering hot day. (Matthew 11:28, 29) But the Christians in Laodicea are neither hot nor cold. Like the waters that flow down into their city, they have become tepid, lukewarm. They are liable to be completely rejected by Jesus,' vomited out of his mouth'! May we for our part always strive zealously as did Jesus, to provide spiritual refreshment for others. -MATTHEW 9:35-38. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Continue

 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. (Psalm45:4; 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 has 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 will 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." (Acts1:6-8; 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.

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy Gold Refined by Fire - Continue

 Laodicea was near Colossae. In writing to the Colossians, the apostle Paul mentions a letter that he had sent to the Laodiceans.  (Colossians 14:15, 16) We do not know what Paul wrote in that letter, but the message that Jesus now sends to the Laodiceans shows that they have fallen into a woeful spiritual condition. As usual, though, Jesus first cites his own credentials, saying: "And to the angel of the congregation of Laodicea write: These are the things that the Amen says, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God. - REVELATION 3:14.

Why does Jesus call himself the Amen"? This title adds judicial weight to his message. "Amen is a transliteration of Hebrew word meaning "surely," "so be it," and is used at 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 15:116; 16:23, 24. 

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Chapter Thirteen/Buy God Refined by Fire

 Laodicea is last of the seven congregations to receive a message from the resurrected Jesus. And what eye-opening, stimulating information it conveys!

Today, you would find the ruins of Laodicea near Denizli, about 55 miles southeast of Alasehir. In the first century, Laodicea was a prosperous city. Sitting on a major road junction, it was a key center for banking and commerce. Sale of a well-known eye salve added to it wealth, and it was also famous for its high-quality garments produced locally from a fine black wool. Lack of water, a major problem for the city, had been overcome by channeling water down from hot springs some distance away. Thus, the water would be only lukewarm by the time it arrived in the city. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" -The Conqueror's Blessings - Conclusion

 What grand encouragement that message must have been to the faithful Christians in Philadelphia! And it certainly has a powerful lesson for the John class now, during the Lord's day. But its principles are important for each individual Christian, whether of the anointed or of the other sheep. (John10:16) Each of us would well to keep producing Kingdom fruitage as did those Christians in Philadelphia. All of us have at least a little power. All of us can do something in Jehovah's service. Let us use this power! With regard to increased Kingdom privileges, let us be alert to enter any door that opens for us. We can even pray for Jehovah to open such a door. (Colossians 4:2, 3) As we follow Jesus' pattern of endurance and prove true to his name, we will show that we, too, have an ear to hear what God's holy spirit says to the congregations. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - The Conqueror's Blessings -Continue

 Finally, anointed overcomers have written on them Jesus' new name. This refers to Jesus' new office and unique privileges granted to hm by Jehovah. (Philippians 29:11; Revelation 19:12) No one gets to know that name, in the sense that no one else has those experiences or is entrusted with those privileges. However, when Jesus writes his name on his faithful brothers, they come into a intimate relationship with him in that heavenly realm and even share in his privileges. (Luke 22:29, 30) It is no wonder that Jesus concludes this message to such anointed ones by repeating the exhortation: "Let the man who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations." - REVELATION 3:13. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - The Conqueror's Blessings - Continue

 Jesus continues saying: "And I will write upon him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem which descends out of heaven from my God, and that new name of mine." (Revelation 3:12b) Yes, these conquerors have written on them the name of Jehovah-their God and Jesus' God. This shows clearly that Jehovah and Jesus are two separate persons and not two parts of a triune God or Trinity. (John 14:28; 20:17) All creation must come to see that these anointed ones belong to Jehovah. They are his witnesses. They also have written on them the name of the new Jerusalem, the heavenly city that descends out of heaven in the sense that it extends its benevolent ruler over all faithful mankind. (Revelation 21:9-14) All the earthly Christian sheep will thus also know that these anointed conquerors are citizens of the Kingdom, the heavenly Jerusalem. -PSALM 87:5, 6; MATTHEW 25:33, 34; PHILIPPIANS 3:20; HEBREWS 12:22.

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - The Conqueror's Blessings

 The John class today have "kept the word about endurance," that is, they have followed his example and endured. (Hebrews 12:2, 3; 1 Peter 2:21) They have thus been greatly encouraged by Jesus' further words to the congregation in Philadelphia: "The one that conquers-I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will by no means go out from it anymore." - REVELATION 3:12. 

What a privilege it is for one to be a pillar in the temple of Jehovah! In ancient Jerusalem, the literal temple was the center of Jehovah's worship. Within the temple, the high priest offered the blood of sacrificial animals, one day each year, before the miraculous light that represented Jehovah's presence in "the Most Holy." (Hebrews 9:1-7) At Jesus' baptism, there came into existence another temple, a great spiritual, templelike arrangement for worshiping Jehovah. The holy of holies this temple is in heaven where Jesus duly appeared "before the person of God.: (Hebrews 9:24) Jesus is the High Priest, and there is only one sacrifice offered for the complete covering of sins: the shed blood of the perfect man Jesus. (Hebrews 7:26, 27;9:25-28; 10:1-5, 12-14) As long as they remain faithful, anointed Christians one earth serve as underpriests in the earthly courtyards of this temple. (1 Peter 2:9) But once they have conquered, they too enter that heavenly holy of holies and become immovable supports, like pillars, of the templelike arrangement for worship. (Hebrews10:19; Revelation 20:6) There is no danger that they will "go out from it anymore." 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" -"An Opened Door" - Conclusion

 United like the Christians in Philadelphia in a bond of genuine brotherly affection, Jehovah's Witnesses today appreciate that their work of preaching done urgently. Soon, the great tribulation will ring down on Satan's wicked world. At that time, may each of us be found strong in faith and active in God's service, so that our names will not be blotted out of Jehovah's book of life. (Revelation 7:14) Let us take very seriously Jesus' admonition to the congregation in Philadelphia so that we may hold fast to our service privileges and attain to the reward of everlasting life. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "An Opened Door" - Continue

 From 1919 onward the anointed remnant, follow Jesus' example, launched into a vigorous campaign of declaring abroad the good news of the Kingdom. (Matthew 4:17; Romans 10:18) As a result, some of the modern synagogue of Satan, Christendom, came to this anointed remnant, repented and 'bowed down,' acknowledging the slave's authority. They too came to serve Jehovah in union with the older ones of the John class. This continued until the full number of Jesus' anointed brothers were gathered. Following this, "a great crowd . . . out of all the nations" has come to "bow down" to the anointed slave. (Revelation 7:3, 4, 9) Together the slave and his great crow serve as the one flock of Jehovah's Witnesses.

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "An Opened Door"

 In 1919 Jesus fulfilled his promise and recognized the small band of genuine anointed Christians as his "faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45-47) These entered into a privilege similar to that enjoyed by the faithful steward Eliakim in the time of King Hezekiah. Jehovah said of Eliakim: "I will put the key of the house of David upon his shoulder, and he must open without anyone's shutting, and he must shut without anyone's opening." Eliakim shoulder heavy responsibilities for Hezekiah, the royal son of David. Similarly, today, the anointed John class has had "the key of the house of David" put upon its shoulder in that it has been entrusted to the earthly interests of the Messianic Kingdom. Jehovah has strengthened his servants for this privilege, boosting their little power into dynamic energy sufficient for a gigantic global witness. -ISAIAH 22:20, 22; 40:29. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - " The Hour of Test" -Conclusion

 What, though, is "the hour of test"? No doubt, those Christians in Asia had to cope with a further wave of terrible persecution from imperial Rome. Nevertheless, the major fulfillment is the hour of sifting and judging that finally arrived during the Lord's day, climaxing from 1918 onward. The test has been to determine whether one is for God's established Kingdom or for Satan's world.  It is for a comparatively short period, an "hour," but it is not over yet. Until it is, we must never forget that we ae living in "the hour of test." - LUKE 21:34-36.

In 1918 the John class of anointed Christians-like that staunch congregation in Philadelphia-had to face opposition from the modern-day "synagogue" of Satan." Religious leader of Christendom, who claimed to spiritual Jews, sly maneuvered the rulers to suppress the true Christians. Nevertheless, these tried hard to 'keep the word of Jesus' endurance'; hence, with spiritual help, a significant "little power," they survived and were aroused to enter the door that now opened before them. In what way? 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" -"The Hour of Test"

 Jesus goes on to say: "Because you kept the word about my endurance, I will also keep you from the hour of test, which is to come upon the whole inhabited earth, to put a test upon those who are dwelling on the earth. I am coming quickly. Keep on holding fast what you have, that no one may take your crowd." (Revelation 3:10, 11) Although the Christians of John's day would not survive to the Lord's day (beginning in 1914). their confidence that Jesus was coming would give them power to keep on preaching. (Revelation 1:10; 2 Timothy 4:2) The "crown," or prize of everlasting life, awaited them in heaven. (James 1:12; Revelation 11:18) If they were faithful to death, no one would deprive them of that reward. -REVELATION 2:10. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "They Will Bow Down to You" -- Continue

 Those prophecies were addressed to God's chosen nation. When they were uttered, fleshly Israel occupied that honored position. But when the Jewish nation rejected the Messiah, Jehovah cast them off. (Matthew 15:3-9; 21:42, 43; Luke 12:32; John 1:10, 11) At Pentecost 33 C.E., he chose in their stead the true Israel of God, the Christian congregation. Its members are the spiritual Jews with the real circumcision of the heart. (Acts 2:1-4, 41, 42; Romans 2:28, 29; Galatians 6:16) Thereafter, the only way that individual fleshly Jews could come back to a favored relationship with Jehovah would be by putting their faith in Jesus as the Messiah. (Matthew 23:27-39) Evidently, this was about to happen with some individuals in Philadelphia. 

In modern times, prophecies such as Isaiah 49:23 and Zechariah8:23 have had a very significant fulfillment. As a result of the preaching of the John class, huge numbers of people have entered through the opened door into Kingdom service. Most of these have come out of Christendom, whose religions falsely claim to be spiritual Israel. (Compare Romans 9:6) These, as a great crowd, wash their robes and make them white by exercising faith in Jesus' sacrificial blood. (Revelation 7:9, 10, 14) Obeying Christ's Kingdom rule, they hope to inherit its blessings here on earth. They come to Jesus' anointed brothers and "bow down" to them spiritually    speaking because they have heard that God is with them,' They minister to these anointed ones, with whom they themselves become united in a worldwide association of brothers. - MATTHEW 25:34-40; 1 PETER 5:9. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "They Will Bow Down to You" - Continue

 Members of the Jewish synagogue in Philadelphia would likely be startled to learn that some of them were to "do obeisance" to  the  local Christian community. In view of the fact that there are doubtless many non-Jews in that congregation, they would expect the very opposite to take place. Why? Because Isaish foretold: ""[non-Jewish]kings must become caretakers  for you[the people of Israel], and their princesses nursing women for you. With faces to the earth they will bow down to you." (Isaiah 49:23; 45:14; 60:14) In a similar vein, Zechariah was  inspired to write: "It will be in those days that ten more men [non-Jews]out of all the languages of the nation will take hold of the skirt of a man who is a Jew, saying: 'We will go with you people,  for we have heard that God is with you people.' " (Zechariah 8:23) Yes, non-Jews were to bow down to Jews, not the other way around!

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "They Will Bow Down to You"

 Hence, Jesus promises them fruitage: "Look! I will give those from the synagogue of Satan who say they are Jews, and yet they not but lying-look! I will make them come and do obeisance before your feet and make them know I have loved you." (Revelation 3:9) Perhaps in Smyrna, the congregation has had problems with the local Jews. Jesus designates those as "the synagogue of Satan." Nevertheless, at least some of the Jews are about to realize that what the Christians have been preaching about Jesus is the truth.  Their 'doing obeisance' will likely be in the manner described by Paul at 1 Corinthians 14:24, 25, so they actually repent and become Christians, fully declaring Jesus' great love in surrendering even his soul in behalf of his disciples. - JOHN 15:12, 13.

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" -"The Key of David" - Conclusion

 Coming from such an authoritative source, Jesus' words to the Christians in Philadelphia must be especially comforting! He commends them saying: "I know your deeds-look! I have set before you an opened door, which no one can shut-that you have a little power, and you kept my word and did not prove false to my name." (Revelation 3:8) The congregation has been active, and a door of opportunity before it-doubtless a door of opportunity for ministerial service. (Compare 1 Corinthians 16:9; 2 Corinthians 2:12.) Therefore, Jesus encourages the congregation to take full advantage of the opportunity to preach. They have endured and shown that they have enough power, with help from God's spirit, to continue doing further "deeds" in Jehovah's service. (2 Corinthians 12:10; Zachariah4:6) They have obeyed Jesus' commands and have not denied Christ, either by word or by action. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" -"The Key of David" - Continue

 When in 29 C.E., Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River and anointed with holy spirit, he became King-Designate in the line of David. He showed exemplary zeal in his preaching the good news of the Kingdom and commissioned his disciples likewise to preach. (Matthew 4:23; 10:7, 11) Jesus humbled himself, even to death on a torture stake, thus proving himself fully qualified to inherit the Davidic Kingdom.  Jehovah resurrected Jesus as an immortal spirit and exalted him to His own right hand in the heavens. There, he inherited all the rights of the Davidic kingdom. In due time, Jesus would exercise his right to "go on subduing in the midst of [his] enemies." -PSALM 110:1, 2: PHILIPPIANS 2:8, 9; HEBREWS10:13, 14.

In the meantime, Jesus would have use of the key of David, opening up opportunities and privileges related to the Kingdom of God.  Through Jesus, Jehovah would now deliver anointed Christians on earth "from the authority of the darkness," transferring them "into the kingdom of the Son of his love."(Colossians 1:13, 14) The key would also be used to bar such privileges to any who proved unfaithful. (2 Timothy 2:12, 13) Since this permanent heir of David's kingdom has Jehovah's backing, no creature can prevent him from fulfilling such duties. - Compare MATTHEW 28:18-20. 

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Chapter Twelve/"Keep On Holding Fast What You Have" - "The Key of David" - Continue

 When and how would this one with "the legal right" appear? How would this scepter of David's kingdom be given to him? 

About 600 years later, a descendant of King David, the Jewish maiden Mary, became pregnant by the holy spirit. God sent the angel Gabriel to inform Mary that she would have a son, to be named Jesus. Gabriel added: "This one will be great and will be called Son of the Most High and Jehovah God will give the throne of David his father, and he will rule as king over the house of Jacob forever, and there will be no end of his kingdom." - LUKE 1:31, 33. 

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