(Cont. from Page 805).

806.

(2)  But in any case, where in the Holy Scriptures does it convey that "older men" have the right or the authority to refuse admonition or criticism for any reason? Even the apostle Peter was criticized by the apostle Paul     and he benefited from it. In this particular case, Peter was "separating himself, in fear of those of the circumcised class" (the Jews). Paul spoke to Peter (Ce'phas) before them all. (Gal 2:11-17). He did not whisper to Peter privately when he and other Jews were creating division among God's people. With reference to this incident, Paul wrote: "For  if the very things that I once threw down I build up again, I demonstrate myself to be a transgressor." (Gal 2:18). This was criticism of their conduct. They were corrected, and there was no mitigation of the seriousness of their sin by indulging it at the expense of people of the nations. To have done so would be to "shut up the Kingdom of the heavens before men" of the nations. By their actions Peter and the Jews had promoted satan's divided kingdom of this world, withdrawing from some while favouring others, creating division.  (Matt 23:13).

Our Lord Jesus is the "Chief Agent and Perfector of our faith". (Heb 12:2). And this perfecting of us is achieved through the anointed congregation of God. (Heb 12:22-24). Are you who claim to be members of the "other sheep" now perfected to such an extent as to be above criticism?  I think not.

The "adjusting down of the holy ones" for ministerial "work of service" as described in Ephesians 4:12 (Greek T.) is in stark contrast to the adjusting up of oneself to an unwarrantable position of authority as is the case of unsealed 'elders' in JW congregations. Readjustment of the holy ones is with a view to the building up the "body" of The Christ until they attain to "oneness in the faith" through the "accurate knowledge of the Son of God" by Holy Spirit.  (Eph 4:12,13).

As to the foregoing "accurate knowledge of the Son of God", the question for all JWs to consider is: Where does your apostate teaching make a showing in the Word of God?

The guiding principle for anointed overseers of congregations of God's people is this: "The greatest among you must be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled; and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."  (From Matt 23:11,12 NEB).



(1)


What does the Greek Interlinear Translation of 1 Timothy 5:1,2 teach us as to the intended meaning of "older man" in this scripture
?
 

 
(2)

In Galatians 2:11-18, why did the apostle Paul choose to criticize the behaviour of the apostle Peter and the Jews publicly?

 

19/5/77.
 

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