What is the "white robe"? / Armageddon / Winepress

Addition to yesterday's post as follows:

"You may note at Rev.19:8, that the "white robe" symbolizes the righteous standing the faithful members of the Bride receive, due to their "righteous acts". By what acts did they receive this righteous standing? Rev.6:9,11 tells us. (witnessing/bearing testimony to truth under threat of death -Rev.12:11) Who "slaughtered" them for their outspokenness? Rev.11:7 and Rev.17:6 tells us.
Yet Rev.7:14 and Rev.22:14 tells us that their robes are white due to washing them, "in the blood of the Lamb". How are both sources of their white robe, true?
These faithful have the blood of Christ upon their robe, by means of their imitation of Christ's sacrifice.
"These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever he goes", "sticking with him in his trials" (Rev.14:4; Luke22:28).
By following the same path as Christ (John14:6; 1Pet.2:21), they accept their baptism into his death (Rom.6:3,5; Matt.25:6; Heb.13:13). Only those who finish this course, receive the white robe marked by the same sacrifice of Christ's blood (Rev.6:9,11). Both sacrifices cleanse them of sin, because only those willing to imitate Christ's full course (including his death), receive the benefit of Jesus' own ransom (Phil.3:10-11; Rom.6:5; 8:36).
Their own sacrifice, is how they are "justified" to receive it.

Only those who have been "slaughtered" for truth, ride at Christ's side during Armageddon (Rev.19:11,14,15,8; 6:9,11; 2:27,26; Rev.17:14; Eph.2:6); assisting him in warring against Satan's deceptions, by means of the sword of God's Word (Rev.19:15; 1:16; 2:16; Heb.4:12; 2Cor.10:3,4,5). Treading down the fruit of the counterfeit "vine" (Jer.2:21; Deut.32:32,33; Rev.18:3; 14:8; Jer.51:7) means the destruction of the rotten fruit (false teachings) of the false prophets (Matt.7:15,16,17,18,19,20; 12:33,34,35,36,37; 24:24,25; Rev.13:11; 17:14; 12:7,11; 16:13,14,15,16; 19:19,20,13,21; 20:10; Jer.23:29; Jer.5:14NIV Rev.11:5; Matt.10:20; Hosea6:5; Mal.4:2; Luke1:78; Rev.2:28; 2Pet.1:19; Jer.1:10).

Previously, all chosen ones were conquered by the Beast (Rev.13:7; Dan.8:11,12; 9:26; Luke24:26; Rom.8:17; 1Pet.4:13). During their subjection to the Beast, they may be "sparing their life" (Luke17:33), but as long as they choose this slavery to men, they will remain unsealed (1Cor.7:23; Rev.13:8,16,17,15; Gal.1:10; Rev.13:7; 11:2; 2Cor.11:20; 2Thess.2:4; Dan.8:13; 12:7; Matt.5:13; Rev.9:3,4,10,11; 7:3).
This is why Jesus Christ must at first, war against the false teachings by himself (Dan.8:11; 9:26; 12:1,2; Luke18:8; 21:34,35,36; Isa.63:2,3,4,5; Eze.22:30; 13:5; Isa.59:16; 64:7; Rev.19:15). He first does this, by saving and instructing the repentant and faithful at heart (Isa.63:7,8; Rev.9:13,14; Luke4:18; Isa.49:9; 61:1; Rev.13:10; Isa.48:20; Rev.18:4; Isa.43:2; 51:12,13; 43:1,2; Rev.12:15 (River, flood) Rev.13:13 (fire); Jer.29:8,9,10,11,12,13,14; Rev.8:3,4,5; Psalm66:12; 144:11; 41:12; Rev.12:15,14,6). These faithful repentant, finally stand up for truth (Matt.25:5,6,7,10; Dan.12:2; Eph.5:14; Isa.60:1; 2:3,5; Rev.11:3; Zech.13:8,9; Mal.3:2,3), follow the full course of Christ, and are sealed. They have joined Christ in his battle against the teachings of demons (1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13,14,15,16; 17:14; 19:11,14; 12:7,10,11; 6:9,10,11; Dan.12:7; Luke21:24; Rev.20:4).

Those chosen who resist Christ's trampling of the false teachings, become his enemy (Isa.63:10; Rev.2:4,5,16; 3:3,16,17,18,19; 16:8,9; Heb.6:4,5,6,8).
Those who are awoken and faithful to this war, soon side with Christ (Matt.25:5,6,7; Rev.14:17,18,19; 17:14; 19:14; Luke12:49; Jer.5:14NIV ; Matt.7:19; 2Pet.3:10,12; Rev.11:5,3,4; Zech.4:14; Rev.22:3,4; Heb.1:6,7,14; 2:5,16)

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Sanctified, Justified, Declared Righteous---How?

A QUESTION I RECEIVED:
What exactly does 1Cor.6:11 mean?  How does one become sanctified?  Justified?  Righteous?

REPLY:

Hello Jay,
I am pleased to meet you.
You have asked a number of questions. I hope to cover all of them.
You ask for the meaning of 1Cor.6:11, which reads;
"And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."

That verse begins; "And that is what some of you were."

  First we should determine, the previous nature of those to whom Paul is speaking.
You may be surprised at the true application, which is undergoing dynamic fulfillment today.
"What some of you were" applies in a spiritual sense as well as physical, according to the sins mentioned in 1Cor.6:9,10.
(See Hosea9:1; 4:15; Rev.2:14,20,21; 17:1,2; 9:21; Isa.28:1; Matt.24:49)
Eph.2:1-10 helps us to clarify these previous sins. I will insert scriptures that relate to each phrase, and then I will follow by writing about the phrases that directly impact your question...
Eph.2:
  "1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, (1Tim.5:6) 2 in which you used to live (Eph.4:22,23,24) when you followed the ways of this world (1John2:15,16,17) and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air (Eph.6:12), the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient (Mark4:15,18,19; 2Thess.2:9,3,4,11,12; John8:44; Col.2:8; Rev.17:14).
3 All of us also lived among them at one time (2Cor.6:17,16; Rev.18:4; Luke4:18), gratifying the cravings of our flesh (Rom.8:3,7; 1Pet.4:1; Gal.5:17; Rev.13:5,6,7; 2Pet.2:12,13,14) and following its desires and thoughts (Rom.8:5; Gal.5:17; Matt.23:6,7,5,25,28). Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (Gal.6:8,7; Hosea10:13; Rom.6:21) 4 But because of his great love for us (John3:16; John16:27; Rom.5:8), God, who is rich in mercy (Rom.9:15,18; Matt.5:7; Luke6:35,36),
5 made us alive (John5:24; 11:26; 1John3:14; Mal.3:3; 1Pet.1:7; Jer.31:11; Isa.43:1,2,10,21; 48:20) with Christ (Rom.8:2,9,11; 6:4; John5:21) even when we were dead in transgressions
—it is by grace you have been saved.
6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (Rev.12:5; Eph.1:18,19,20,21; Rom.8:9) 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace (Rom.8:19; 1Cor.2:9; Isa.64:4; Rev.21:5), expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith (Heb.6:12; 13:7; James2:20; Matt.25:23,40)
—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— (Rom.9:16; John6:44,65) 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (1Cor.4:7; Luke17:10; John15:5; Rev.7:10) 10 For we are God’s handiwork (Isa.61:3; 1Cor.3:9; Eph.2:10,21,22; Mark14:58; Acts17:24; 1Cor.3:16; 1Pet.5:10; 1Pet.2:5,9; Rev.22:3), created in Christ Jesus to do good works (John15:8; Luke12:35; Matt.7:19; Phil.2:15,16; 2Cor.10:5), which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Eph.1:5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12; Titus2:14; Luke10:19; Rev.2:3,10,26,27)

There is a great deal of information in these verses. I will try to limit their application to your question...
"That is what some of you were"...
  Can you see from the cited verses above, that Chosen Ones were picked by God while they were still practicing sin? Can you see that they needed to be cleansed...both by the blood of Christ (Rev.5:9,10; 7:14) and by their own righteous deeds and work (Rev.19:8,14; 3:4,18)? They need to "grow up" in Christ (Gal.4:19; Eph.4:13; 3John1:4; 1Tim.6:11; 1John3:3)...
leaving behind their past lives (Rom.6:2,11; 8:2; 6:14; 7:4,6; Gal.2:19; 2Tim.2:21,22; 1Thess.4:7; 1Pet.1:14).
--------------------------------------

Next, "But you were washed"
Please consider Eph.5:26; John3:5; 15:3; Rev.22:14; 7:14; 1John1:9; and John17:17 (sanctified = cleansed)

  Can you see that when God's spirit is combined with His Holy Word (Heb.4:12; James1:21; Luke8:8,15; 2Tim.3:16,17; 2Pet.1:19), those chosen are equipped to perfect themselves (2Cor.7:1; Matt.5:48; 1Pet.1:19; 2Pet.3:13,14; James3:17,18; Heb.12:11; 1Thess.4:4)?
It is as if those who were sinful, are "washed clean" in their hearts (2Cor.11:2; Isa.1:18), by a "circumcision" performed by spirit (Rom.2:28,29; 1Cor.6:11 c).
See also http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-is-white-robe.html

Next, "you were sanctified"
 Please consider 1Thess4:3; 2Thess.3:5; John17:17,18,19,8; 15:3; Eph.5:26; Heb.10:10,11,14,29; 2:10,11,12; John17:26; Matt.6:9.   1Pet.1:2; Heb.13:12

  Can you see that sanctification occurs for the "firstborn" from the dead (James1:18; Rev.14:4; 20:6),
which is why they are called "Holy Ones"? (Rev.20:6; 1Pet.1:14,15,16; 2:9; 1Thess.4:7; 2Tim.1:9; 2Cor.7:1; Dan.7:18,21,22; 4:17; Ps.89:5,7; Zech.14:5; Rev.19:11,14; Joel3:9,11,16).
  These worship God with "spirit and truth" (John4:23,24). Christ baptizes them with ("pours out") Holy Spirit (Luke3:16; Acts1:5; John14:15,16,17,26; 6:63; 16:13,14,15; Rom.5:5; Acts10:45; Gal.4:6; Rom.8:15,16; 1John2:20,27). When that spirit combines with God's Word through Christ (Truth -John17:17; 14:6; 1:1,14); those who receive it and bear fruit (Luke8:11,15; John15:2,3,4,5,7,8) are
sanctified for this honorable purpose. As holy spirit flows from Christ, into the "branches" (John15:5; Rom.11:17,19; Zech.4:12,14,3; Rev.11:4), they are further purified and made holy by that spirit and the fruit of truth it produces (Rev.22:11; 2:25; 3:11; Dan.12:3,10).

Next, "you were justified/declared righteous"

  This word "justified" is defined as a legal justification or basis for pardon. Again, both the blood of Christ and the righteous deeds of the Holy Ones are required for this "justification". This basis is condensed at Rev.12:11. When the Holy Ones are willing to die for Truth, they are justified before the accuser, Satan, as faithfully sealed. In this way, they personally conquer Satan, by proving victorious despite all his testing and deceptions (Rev.12:10,11; 6:9,11; 20:4).
You may note at Rev.19:8, that the "white robe" symbolizes the righteous standing the faithful members of the Bride receive, due to their "righteous acts". By what acts did they receive this righteous standing? Rev.6:9,11 tells us. (witnessing/bearing testimony to truth under threat of death -Rev.12:11) Who "slaughtered" them for their outspokenness? Rev.11:7 and Rev.17:6 tells us.

Yet Rev.7:14 and Rev.22:14 tells us that their robes are white due to washing them, "in the blood of the Lamb". How are both sources of their white robe, true?
These faithful have the blood of Christ upon their robe, by means of their imitation of Christ's sacrifice.
"These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever he goes", "sticking with him in his trials" (Rev.14:4; Luke22:28).
By following the same path as Christ (John14:6; 1Pet.2:21), they accept their baptism into his death (Rom.6:3; Matt.25:6; Heb.13:13). Only those who finish this course, receive the white robe marked by the same sacrifice of Christ's blood. Both sacrifices cleanse them of sin, because only those willing to imitate Christ's full course (including his death), receive the benefit of Jesus' ransom.
Their own sacrifice, is how they are "justified" to receive it.

Only those who have been "slaughtered" for truth, ride at Christ's side during Armageddon (Rev.19:11,14,15; 2:27,26; Rev.17:14; Eph.2:6); assisting him in warring against Satan's deceptions, by means of the sword of God's Word (Rev.19:15; 1:16; 2:16; Heb.4:12; 2Cor.10:3,4,5). Treading down the fruit of the counterfeit "vine" (Jer.2:21; Deut.32:32,33; Rev.18:3; 14:8; Jer.51:7) means the destruction of the rotten fruit (false teachings) of the false prophets (Matt.7:15,16,17,18,19,20; 12:33,34,35,36,37; 24:24,25; Rev.13:11; 17:14; 12:7,11; 16:13,14,15,16; 19:19,20,13,21; 20:10; Jer.23:29; 5:14; 1:10; Hosea6:5).

Previously, all chosen ones were conquered by the Beast. During their subjection to it, they remain unsealed (1Cor.7:23; Rev.13:8,16,17,15; Gal.1:10; Rev.13:7; 11:2; 2Cor.11:20; 2Thess.2:4; Dan.8:13; 12:7; Matt.5:13; Rev.9:3,4,10,11). This is why Jesus Christ must at first, war against the false teachings alone (Luke18:8; 21:34,35,36; Isa.63:2,3,4,5; Rev.19:15). He first does this, by saving the faithful at heart (Isa.63:7,8; Rev.9:13,14; Luke4:18; Isa.49:9; 61:1; Rev.13:10; Isa.48:20; Rev.18:4; Isa.43:2; Psalm66:12; Rev.12:15,14,6).

Those chosen who resist Christ's trampling of the false teachings, become his enemy (Isa.63:10; Rev.2:4,5,16; 3:3,16,17,18,19; 16:8,9; Heb.6:4,5,6,8).
Those who are awoken and faithful to this war, soon join with Christ (Matt.25:5,6,7; Rev.14:17,18,19; 17:14; 19:14; Luke12:49; Jer.5:14; Matt.7:19; 2Pet.3:10,12; Rev.11:5,3,4; Zech.4:14; Rev.22:3,4; Heb.1:6,7,14; 2:5,16)

Because of this justified standing of faithfulness and exclusive devotion to the Father of Truth.... Christ's blood can rightfully be applied to them, removing all corruption and stain of sin (Col.2:14; 1Pet.2:24). Once redeemed by Christ, they have life by means of their new father (Isa.9:6; John10:10; 5:40; 14:6,18; 1Cor.15:21,22,23,45; Rom.8:21,23,25) they are fit for adoption by the Father of us all (Rom.8:23; Eph.1:5). This will take place in heaven.

"in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ"

In all that the name of Jesus Christ stands for (John14:8,9; 4:10,14; 7:38; Col.2:9,10,11; Rom.2:29; 5:8; Isa.9:6,7; Rev.5:9; 19:12,13,16; John5:28; etc.)...
these ones chosen by him (John15:16) and his father (2Chron.16:9 A; Eph.1:4; 2Cor.1:21)
are the first to receive the blessings and mercies of this cleansing, sanctification, and justification.


"and by the Spirit of our God"

Who can possibly estimate or express the persona of our Heavenly Father or His Holy Spirit?
God is Eternal and Almighty (Isa.44:6; Rev.1:8; Psalm94:22). He is the personification of Love (1John4:7,8,16) Wisdom (Prov.2:6; James1:5), Life (Psalm36:9), Justice (Job34:10), and Truth (Rom.3:4).
He is the source of all life...worthy of all praise, loyalty, honor, and fear (Psalm83:18; Rev.4:11; 14:7).
What an undeserved kindness and honor to these sinful chosen recipients, that God's spirit is the source of the blessings of 1Cor.6:11 !
Yet, by no other means could such miracles occur.

Thank you for your question.
If a need remains, please follow up.
Love in Christ,
Pearl

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How is the Kingdom like fish caught in a net?

Matt.13:

47 “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. 48 When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. 49 This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous 50 and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

The "net" is the means by which all sorts are gathered together.

This net is meant to "catch", ensnare (Job 18:8; Ps.9:15; 10:9; 35:8; 140:5; Ec.9:12; Isa.19:8; Isa.51:20).

God allows it...these Gentile agents of Satan are being used to catch, ensnare and discipline the "chosen ones" (net of deceptive doctrine). (Lam.1:13; Hab.1:15-17NIV ; Eze.21:21; 29:3-5; Isa.27:1; Ps.74:14; Eze.38:4; Rev.9:7,3; Jer.51:14; Deut.28:42; Joel 1:4; 2:25; Rev.9:7; 13:7). 

(https://pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com)

As a result, those chosen ones who learn from that period of captivity, are disciplined and refined, so that those who pass this test may become sealed. 

The net is Satan's power of deception. Those who haul up the fish are Satan's "Gentile" servants, his false prophets, and their supporters (Jer.16:16,17,18,15; 5:26; Hab.1:14,15,16,17). 

Those deceived are trapped in Satan's net.

       Fish in the ocean are free and unattached to any religious affiliation (Hab.1:14). Satan can ensnare minds with religious lies. Satan uses those who teach his deceptive doctrine, to ensnare. 

On the other hand; 

Jesus assigns fishermen to set fish free from Satan's "net". Disciples of Christ teach divine truth from Christ (John8:32). By the response of those captive, they are gathered into containers (Luke17:34-35), or discarded as unsuitable (Luke10:16; Matt.13:47-48).

Those who rescue them from that net, are servants of Christ (Matt.4:19). Those servants "haul that net onto land" where the captives are separated. The fish are sorted according to their response to the gospel.

By their preaching, all fish (Ecc.9:12) who are still under Satan's power (net), are forced to be sorted by means of their response 

to the truth (which the fishermen/angels, preach)(Matt.13:47-49).

Today, the Satanic net/captivity/ensnaring/catching, is being accomplished by means of organized religion, prominently being "Jehovah's Witnesses", due to having a steward over God's Chosen, who was genuinely assigned by Christ (Luke 12:42). Revelation describes the final snare as having a genuine Chosen leader who proves rebellious and unfaithful (Rev.8:10,11; 1:20; Jer.51:7)(Eze.26:5,14; Amos 4:2)
(Link: "The-Fallen-Star").
--(http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/08/what-happened-in-1914.html)
----(Link: "All-Slain-on-Earth")

All the fish are under the power of Satan, who is Lord of the Sea (Leviathan) (pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com) (Isa.27:1; Ps.74:14; Rom.16:20).

His final deceptions are like a net (Ec.9:12). This also is symbolized by Leviathan's barbed scales (Eze.29:4).

Unknowingly, while mankind (anointed and others) believe Satan's lies (Rev.12:9,15,16; 16:14; 2Cor.11:3; Matt.24:24,25; Rev.13:11; 2Cor.11:20), they are like fish stuck to Leviathan's barbed scales (see Ezekiel 29:4; 38:4; Job 41:1,2; Isa.43:16,17).

All chosen anointed must go through this captivity, in order to be tested by Satan.

Satan demands it (Luke 22:31).

God allows it as He did with Job (Job 1:8,12), because it is justice to test those who are chosen to inherit the Kingdom (1Pet.5:8,9,10; 1Pet.4:1,13; 2Cor.4:17; Jer.17:10; Luke16:10,11; Heb.5:8; Phil.3:10; Rom.8:17).

If they fall like Adam, Eve, and Satan, they are proven unfit (fish that are "thrown away").

Since God is allowing this just testing, He asks Prov.27:11 of his chosen "sons" (Gal.3:26).

The time arrives for all these "fish" to be "hauled up" by fishermen, to face a sorting harvest.

The chosen anointed are subjected to this testing according to perfect justice...

to prove that they are legally entitled to strip Satan of his dominion and rule (Rev.12:10,11; Dan.4:17; 2:21; 7:18,22,26,27).

Yet for a time, they are engulfed in Satan's deceptions (Rev.13:7; 11:2; 6:10; Dan.8:12,13; 11:31; Luke 21:20,24; Dan.12:7). 

(This corresponds to their time in the abyss/Babylon, under the power of the covenant with death (Babylon the Great) Psalm18:3-19 (click on to read)

and the period of "5 months" when they are subject to the agents of the abyss (the locust-scorpion elders -Rev.9).

This is the testing/net/Great Tribulation/being hooked, by Satan.

What will they do? Will they overcome it and prove victorious?
Will they emerge from it, due to a desire to worship God alone,

and hold up an uncompromising loyalty to Truth?

Their only hope is to follow exactly the example of Christ.

He too was subjected to this test. It was symbolized by his 40 days in the wilderness,

being tempted by the devil

without "food" or "water" (Matt.4:1) ("righteousness" Matt.5:6)

just after his anointing.

(Yet we know his trials continued until his death).

In following the exact path of Christ, the chosen perfect their faith (1Pet.2:21; Heb.12:2; Luke 22:28; Matt.16:24; Rev.14:4).

They are tested under the affliction of Satan, and if they prove loyal to God through it, they are washed clean and refined...accepted as sons and daughters to God (Isa.48:10; 1Cor.6:11; John 13:10; Eph.5:25,26,27; 2Cor.6:17,18; 7:1; 2Thess.1:5; Isa.48:10).

These are the fish which are "suitable" for their inheritance, and are "taken" and not "abandoned".

These are the same ones who are considered "eagles" and as belonging to the sealed "woman" (Rev.12:14; Luke 17:37; Matt.24:28),
(http://eagle-or-vulture-obadiah.blogspot.com/)

who is now seen "in the wilderness" on earth...[no longer a promise/symbol in heaven (Rev.12:1,2)].

This transformation represents the change in those becoming sealed.

(see Link: "End-of-New-Covenant" )

Perfect imitation of Christ is the only path that leads them out of Satan's dominion and power, and on to life.

This corresponds to the "sorting" of fish. It also corresponds to Luke 17:34 and Matt.24:40.

Those who endure this Tribulation/sorting and prove "suitable", will be taken by God to a place prepared for them (Rev.12:6; John14:2,3)...

a place in the wilderness to be "fed" by truth, coming from the "two witnesses", for a symbolic 1,260 days (Rev.11:3; 12:6).

The "fishermen" pull the net up onto the shore (Matt.4:19; Eze.47:10; 29:5; Matt.9:37,38).

Those caught will no longer feel false peace and security (Eze.30:9,10,11,12,20-26)

        (all these verses are very symbolic as to their fulfillment. 

          I do realize that many things need to be explained in these scriptures).

The "fishermen" are those who have already proven obedient (2Cor.10:6; Eph.4:20,21). These are used by God to gather together any others who may "hear what the spirit says to the congregation" of anointed chosen (as yet unsealed as faithful slaves -Deut.11:18; Rev.14:1) (Rev.9:13,14; Mark 4:8,20; Matt.28:19,20; Luke 22:32) and "sort" them by means of their response to declarations of Truth (Matt.13:41,42,49,50). Any (anointed or not) who receive the initial message of these representatives of Christ, are taken to these further provisions (Matt.13:12; Luke 8:18; 12:37; Matt.22:8-10; Rev.22:17).

Here is an interpretation by means of scripture:

Matt.13:

47 “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net (Ps.124:7; 25:15; 91:3; Prov.6:5) that was let down into the lake (sea/deep/abyss, belonging to Satan/Leviathan --Eze.32:2; 34:18,19,22 pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com) and caught all kinds of fish (Eze.29:4; 38:4; 47:8,9,12; Rev.22:2). 48 When it was full (Gal.4:4; Acts 3:20,21; Eph.1:9-14; Rev.14:15,18; Matt.13:39), the fishermen (Matt.4:19) pulled it up on the shore (the "border" between earth and sea -Rev.13:1; Rev.10:2,5). Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets (John6:9,11,12; Eze.39:28), but threw the bad away (Matt.25:41; 7:23; Rev.22:15). 49 This is how it will be at the end of the age ("harvest"/conclusion). The angels ("messengers" Rev.12:7; Eph.6:12; 2Cor.10:4; Rev.1:20 -human sealed anointed) (same as "fishermen"), will come and separate the wicked from the righteous (John4:35-38; 2Cor.2:15,16) 50 and throw them into the blazing furnace (Matt.7:19; Jer.23:29; 20:9; Eze.30:8; Luke 12:49; Rev.8:7; 18:8; 11:5; Deut.32:22; Amos 7:4; 2:5; Isa.66:15,16; Rev.2:16  ETC.) , where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt.24:51; Hosea 6:5)

I know this is incomplete. It is hard to know where to slice the truth, since every piece of it belongs to a larger picture.

I hope this answers for you, at least in part,  the meaning of this illustration.

Summary:

The kingdom of heaven (meaning those who inherit it, and the reason behind those who don't)

is due to the testing (net). By means of allowing this testing tribulation, God draws up from these (those who reside amidst Satan's testing/sea), all sorts of men (unsealed good and bad). When the full limit of time arrives (net full)(harvest), Christ's ambassadors cause a decision to be thrust upon them...a decision "on the shore" (border between "earth" and "sea")(valley of the decision) (Joel 3:2,12,14; Eze.36:5). All good fish will be collected into "baskets" ("saved"/"salvation"--just as Moses was saved from the Nile by a basket.) (the "Nile" is Satan's river of lies -Rev.12:15; Eze.29:3) *(Link: "Earth-Swallows-Satan's-River")*. Those unsuitable to reign in the kingdom, will be thrown back to the sea...Satan's abyss of darkness and death, unsaved, unrescued. (Matt.24:40)

This segregation/harvest, will be done by means of the faithful bearing witness (messenger "angels") to Jesus and prophesying (Rev.11:3; 8:6; Joshua 6:13; Rev.1:20; Phil.2:15; Dan.12:3).

Those who do not respond to the "fire" (Jer.5:14NIV ; Rev.11:5; Luke 12:49; Rev.2:16), will be consumed, condemned and judged by means of it (Matt.3:12; 25:41; John15:16  --"fruit that will LAST"/"inextinguishable eternal fire").

Those who do respond will be refined by it, and it will not suffer permanent harm (Isa.48:10; Mal.3:3; Prov.3:11,12; Heb.12:10; Jer.31:2,10,11,16,28; Eze.11:17; Jer.16:15,16; Isa.54:7; 10:20,21,22,23; 1Pet.5:10).

Those who reject the cleansing fire of God's mouth, will suffer condemnation and shame (Matt.24:51; Hosea 6:5; Isa.26:5; 25:12; Isa.40:4; Zech.4:7,6; 2Pet.3:10; Nahum 3:5; Jer.13:26; Rev.17:16).

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Two Trees - Past and Present

SOME QUESTIONS I WAS SENT

Hello Pearl

The two trees in the garden in the garden of Eden.
One of life, the other of knowledge
why would God put these two trees in the garden in the first place?
Knowing it would cause all these problems with mankind?
Why put mankind at war with each other, when the Greatest Commandment is Love!
God is Love.
All God had to do was not have the trees in the garden!
Then mankind would have been the way He had made it!
When God created things at the start, He said and it was Good.
But when He created mankind, He blessed them!
Why cause All this hate with mankind?
No trees!
Problem solved!
-----------------------------------------

MY REPLY:

Your answer can be found in finding out what these things mean.

The two trees in the garden are symbols.
They were not literal trees.
One was a tree of life,
the other a tree of death.

                       

This symbolism should not surprise us. The entire Bible has benefit for us (2Tim. 3:16,17; Heb.4:12; Rom.15:4;  1Cor. 10:11), not simply as a historical account, but for the symbolic ways in which we can apply it's lessons and principles to our own life.
All those who represent a teaching authority and power,
have been represented throughout the entire Bible, as trees.
(Luke 6:43-45; Matt.12:33,34; 7:17,20; Rev.2:7; 3:20; 22:2; Eze.36:30; 47:12; 17:22-24; Psalm 1:3; 92:12; Jer.17:8; Isa.61:3; 65:22; Zech.4:3,14)
The original Tree of Life (Gen.3:22; John 6:57-58,63; Prov.12:14; Rev.2:7; 22:14; John 14:21; Prov.8:17), as well as it's "apprentice" Trees of Life (Matt.10:25; John 13:13;  1Pet. 2:21), are both referred to in the symbolic book of Revelation (Rev.2:7; 22:2,19; Eze.47:12; Ps.1:3; Matt.7:20; Luke 6:43-45).
The anointed who receive the kingdom,
and channel God's life-giving waters and light through their "fruit" and "leaves",
are also called trees of life,
just as the original Tree of Life was called. (see scriptures above)

Do you know that God created spirit sons before physical sons?
God had a right to create them.
He had a right to create the earth and all good things that are in it.
God also gave the spirits free will, just like people were given.
We know that Adam and Eve sinned (Rom.5:12).
We know that Satan sinned (1John 3:8).

We know that Jesus Christ was the "Word" before coming to earth as a man
(John 1:1,14; Phil.2:5,6,7; John 3:13;  1Tim. 2:5).
That name, the "Word" reflected that he was God's representative and spokesman.
This was traditional within God's nation of Israel....
that the firstborn son represented the father to the rest of the children, and was primary heir to all his father's possessions.
The "Word" was the firstborn of all God ever created (Col.1:15-16;  1John 4:9; John 3:16; Rev.3:14C; John 1:1-4; 6:63).
He presented God's truths to the rest of Creation to follow him.
He represented God to Adam and Eve.
His messages from God meant their lives.
HE, the "Word" is the "tree of life" (John 6:57,63; 17:2; 14:21; Rev.2:7; Luke 17:30; 6:44,45; John 6:63,57; Prov.3:13,18; 12:14; John 6:57).
Adam and Eve had to listen to God, through him (1Tim. 2:5; John 1:14,4; 6:57,63;  1John 4:9).
The "fruit" which the "Word" offered Adam and Eve (Luke 6:45,43), meant life eternally to them (John 6:57).
It is the same for us today.
Those whom God chooses to be his priests,
also offer life (Mal.2:7; Rev.1:5-6; 22:1,2,3,17,19; John 4:14;  2Cor. 5:20; 4:6;  1Cor. 4:1; John 7:38,39;  1Cor. 6:19; Col.1:13;  1Pet. 2:9) (1John 2:20,27; Rom.5:5;  1Cor. 12:7-11; Eph.4:11-12)
by means of what they receive from the High Priest, Christ (John 15:4,5,15,16; Rev.22:2; Luke 6:45; Matt.7:17,20)
(LINK:"Who are the Fine Trees?")
(Ps.92:12,13;  1Cor. 3:6,9; Isa.61:3; Prov.3:13,18; 9:1; Rev.3:12)
(Prov.9:1; Rev.1:16,20; 4:5; Matt.5:14,15; Rev.5:6)

God knows the hearts and thoughts of all His creation
(Luke 16:15; Ps.139:2; 26:2; Job 28:24; Prov.15:11; Jer.17:10).
God is never the source of a test which results in corruption (James 1:13,14,15).
Therefore, God did not place the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden to test Adam and Eve (James 1:13).
Satan was fully responsible for the test the Tree represented.
God acted responsibly when He warned Adam and Eve of the danger He was capable of foreseeing, and which He accurately anticipated (Isa.48:3; 46:10; Heb.4:13; Job 26:6)
He knew what Satan was thinking about, before the Devil committed the first sin
(Job 11:11; James 1:14,15; Ps.139:4; Prov.15:3; 5:21; Jer.23:24).
God knew that Satan was intent on causing Eve to sin (2Cor. 11:3; Gen.3:4-7),
so what should God have done?
Should he have killed his spirit son (who became Satan) before he sinned?
If God had always removed choice from Adam and Eve, would they still have free will?

God is just, and He did not condemn until there was a proven reason to.
But God could, and did, take the opportunity to warn both Adam and Eve,
to stay away from Satan, and to not take in what he wanted to teach them (Luke 6:43,45) (Gen.3:3) (John 8:44; Luke 6:45,43; Gen.3:3)....
the "knowledge of good and bad" by comparison....taking from them, their innocence.
Satan, was the tree of forbidden knowledge that leads to death.
The "fruit"/lies/twisted, deceptive guidance  he offered, were exploitative, corrupting and deadly.
This corruption and death was not sourced with God
(John 8:44; 10:10; James 1:16,17), but from deep within Satan's own heart (Luke 6:45)
and the lies ("rotten fruit" Matt.7:17,20) that came forth from it (Rev.12:15; Prov.6:16-19).
Satan's wrong desire, and the test which that desire resulted in toward Adam and Eve, was not sourced with God.
God warned Eve to not take in the "fruit"/knowledge, that Satan spoke (Luke 6:45,43; Gen.3:3).
We must heed the same warning.
(2Thess. 2:9-10; James 3:15;  2Cor. 11:3,14; Col.2:8;  1Tim. 6:20-21; 4:1; Rev.16:13-16).
LINK:"The Original Sin"

God did not "put" the "Word" and "Satan" in the garden just to tempt His human children (James 1:13).
Those spirit persons symbolized by these two "trees", existed before physical creation,
and they originally had the freedom to roam anywhere they wished, including among mankind on earth
(Job 1:7; Gen.2:16)-(Eze.31:9,18,16; Ps.80:14-19).
Our God is very fair, humble, loving, generous, and reasonable.
Anything that happened in the garden of Eden,
happened because of Satan, Adam, and Eve...
not because of God (Gen.1:31;  1Tim.4:4a).

Trees are only a symbol which represents, teachers.
If there were no symbolic "trees",
there would be no witnesses of God, nor offering of spiritual food (knowledge).
Each tree decides what kind of teacher they will be,
and what sort of "fruit" they will produce and offer others to "eat".
God equips them with wisdom so that they can enjoy
the happiness of giving
the knowledge of life.
But God does not force them to produce what He wishes.
Their mouth will produce fruit according to the abundance of their own heart.
(Luke 6:45; Matt.12:33-37; 7:20; Heb.13:15; John 1:1,4; 8:12; 12:46; Prov.11:30; 10:11; 3:13,18; Eph.5:8-12)

The Bible reveals that Satan's mouth, also bears "fruit"/teachings (Rev.16:13; 12:15; Col.2:8;  2Cor. 11:3;  1Tim. 6:20,21; Gen.3:4,5; Rev.2:24; James 3:15). Just as Jesus is "the way" and his teachings are the road to life; Satan's deceptions are the road which leads to destruction (2Thess. 2:9,10; Matt.7:13; Rev.12:9). All of Satan's teachings/"fruit" are lies, darkness, error/sin, and they lead to death (John 8:44; Heb.2:14; James 1:15). To take in such teachings is to be deceived. Eve herself obtained this falsely-called knowledge (Gen.3:13;  1Tim. 6:20; James 3:15) which resulted in her death (Rom.5:12; Gen.2:17).

It is the same way with the spiritual warfare between human "trees".
(Matt.7:15,16,17,18,19,20;  2Cor. 10:3,4,5; 11:12,13;  2Tim. 3:13)
(1Cor. 3:3; 11:18,19; Mal.3:18)
God has not pitted the anointed against each other.
It was not the truth of God that initiates the final battle,
but rather the lies of demons and those who follow and disseminate them
(1Tim. 4:1; Rev.16:13-16; 13:11,7; 12:15; Gen.3:15,1,4; Jer.5:11,12,14; Matt.7:19; John 15:2,6).
    Those loyal for truth do not shrink back from defending the truth
(Eph.5:6-7,11; Heb.10:38,39; Rev.12:17; 2:25; 17:14;  2Cor. 10:4,5; Rev.19:11,14,8)
In fact, God plans on severely punishing the human "stumbling blocks" who cause this war
(Matt.18:7; Rev.16:13; 20:10; Jer.5:14; Rev.11:5; Hosea 6:5; Matt.10:20).
They have chosen to teach falsehood (Jer.5:11-12;  1Thess. 5:3; Jer.7:4; Rev.2:9; Matt.24:15) for the short term benefits it brings them
(Matt.4:8-9; Rev.13:4,7; Eze.13:6,7; Jer.8:8; 5:31; 23:16; Isa.28:15; 47:7; Micah 3:9,10,11,12; Hab.2:12,13; Isa.55:2,1)....
and the deceptive power of sin which entices them
(2Tim. 3:13;  2Thess. 2:11; Isa.44:20; Rev.13:16;  1John 2:15-16;  1Cor. 4:8; Rev.3:17-18).
They cause people to be mislead and to fall/stumble
(Dan.8:12,11,24,25; 11:16,36,35,37;  2Thess. 2:4; Rev.17:2; 11:2; 13:5,6,7,10; Dan.9:27;
 Mark 13:14; Luke 17:1,2; Rev.18:21; Jer.51:7; Rev.18:4; Isa.1:21).
"By your magic spell, all the nations were led astray" (Rev.18:23 D)
(Jer.51:7;  2Thess. 2:9-12;  1Kings 22:21-22;  2Thess. 2:11;  1Kings 22:23; Rev.16:13; 13:11,15,8;  2Thess. 2:4)
(1Kings 22:23; Isa.47:7-9; Rev.2:23,20; Ps.73:16-19; Rev.18:8,7; Isa.47:7).
Such ones are just like their spiritual father, the Devil (John 8:44; Eph.2:2).

But there are also people who love, and are loyal to truth (Ps.15:1-2)...
people who love God, and wish to aid those who are mislead.
These people are willing to imitate Christ (John 1:14; 8:40)... by being willing to die as he did... to uphold truth
(Phil.3:10; Rev.6:9-11; 12:11; 14:4-5; 20:4)
When the faithful speak truth, the bad "trees" lose power
(John 8:37; 11:47-48,50,53; Matt.23:37,34-35; Rev.18:24; John 16:2; Rev.11:7; 13:14-15;  2Cor. 10:4-5).
The bad trees hate those who, by teaching truth, disrupt their wicked aspirations
(Eph.5:11; Luke 23:1,2; Mark 12:12; John 8:40; Matt.23:34,35; Rev.18:24).
The war between truth and lies, can not be avoided (Mark 13:7; Dan.11:36;  1Cor. 11:19; Matt.18:7), as long as men have freedom to choose.
Until the end, there will be those who imitate Satan,
providing death-dealing lies (Matt.13:27,28,29,30; 3:12; Rev.14:14,15,16).
And there will be those who "war" against those lies,
by bearing witness to truth/Jesus.
(Gen.3:15;  2Cor. 10:3-5;  2Tim. 2:2-3; Dan.9:25,26; Rev.14:12; 12:17; 19:10; 12:11; 6:9,11; 17:14; 19:11,14,8)
The whole theme of Revelation is about the Tree of Life, once again being within reach (Rev.2:7; 22:19)...
and the Tree of Death, once again being within reach (Rev.20:7-8; 12:3-4, 17).
and the final battle between them, and their spiritual offspring (Rev.16:14-16; 17:14) (Rev.9:7,9,11) (Rev.19:11,14; 12:7) (Gen.3:15).
(LINK:"Who are the 'Kings of the Earth'?")

Behind all the symbolism of the scroll of Revelation; is the unveiling of truth about all God's people, both the faithful sources of truth, light, and life,
and the unfaithful sources of darkness, deception, and death,
the battle between them,
as well as the events and deeds which seal each of the two groups being sorted by this final sifting tribulation, and the final harvest that results.
(Link:"The 'Great Tribulation'. What, and Why?")
(Link:http://wheat-or-weeds-obadiah.blogspot.com/)
(Link:wheat-and-weed-seeds-grow-up-and-mature)

At Gen.3:15, God made very clear why this war began...
(Gen.3:15; Psalm 74:14; Isaiah 27:1; Rom.16:20)
Link:pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com
...and why this enmity would continue to exist until the end (Rev.12:17; Dan.9:26 E; Rev.16:13,14,15,16; Rom.9:28).
Revelation uncovers the clear and just requirements needed to save Creation,
and the reasons for condemnation
which will finally become fully manifested, naked, and exposed (Rev.20:12; Mal.3:18;  2Thess. 2:8; Rom.8:19; Rev.17:16; Eze.16:37).
Like Eve, some of those Chosen to become "mothers" of God's *new creation,
  will be seduced by what Satan offers them (2Cor. 11:3,2; Rev.9:1-2,11), by accepting and teaching
  the Serpent's "fruit"... "knowledge of good and bad", and "opened eyes"
  (Gen.3:5; Matt.6:23; Rev.9:1-2; 14:8; Deut.32:33; Rev.14:19),
  they betray a "simple" lamplight sourced in God's spirit and truth (Matt.6:22-23; 25:7-8,4)
  Like Eve, they will bring confusion, corruption, and death to any offspring they conceive and suckle,
  by means of that "father" of destruction and his dark supportive provisions.
  Like Eve, they too, will suffer the shame of nakedness, when their harlotry, is revealed
  (Rev.3:17; Isa.47:3,7; Nahum 3:5,4; Rev.17:1,16; 18:8; Luke 8:17; Rom.2:6)
But for those "virgins" who choose to remain faithful (2Cor. 11:2-3; Rev.14:4-5), they will be given a garment of praise for their continuing endurance and chastity to Christ
(Isa.61:3; Rev.19:8; 3:18; 12:1; Ec.9:7-8)

God is not at all happy about the bad choices of any of the bad "trees" who propagate Satan's corrupt "fruit".
It hurts God's heart when his rebellious sons choose to cause spiritual harm to others (Gen.6:5,6,11,12,13,8).
He only wants them to change and stop being bad (Eze.18:23).
He is ready to forgive them (Eze.18:21,22,23; Heb.8:12; Isa.43:25; Rev.2:21).
He does not want any to die by Satanic deception.
(Gen.2:17; Matt.7:15;  1John 4:1;  1Pet. 5:8; Col.2:8; Eph.5:6;  1Tim. 6:20; Matt.24:24-25; Luke 21:36)

But God respects our free will. If, like Adam and Eve, we choose Satan as our guide, father, exemplar, leader, and god,
then we must also accept what that chosen father and god does to us.
He is a liar and murderer (John 8:44; Heb.2:14 C),
so if we are hurtful like him
(1John 3:12; Luke 11:50-51; Rev.17:6; 18:24; 13:11,15; John 16:2) (Matt.23:34-38)
(Link:"All Slain on Earth"),
or lose our love of truth (Rev.2:4;  2Thess. 2:9-12),
we must also expect to be deceived and killed...
and to be under Satan's powers of blind darkness, spiritual ignorance, corruption, and death.
(Gen.4:11; 3:13,17-19; John 12:35; Matt.24:24-25; Rev.13:7; Dan.8:11,25; Rev.11:2)
(Link:earth+swallows+satan's+river)
--(Link:Who-is-the-Destroyer?)
----(Link:what-is-sheol-hell-hades?)
------(Link:Where+is+Hades?)
--------(Link:search-result=sons+of+light+sons+of+darkness)
There are only two choices...
and that is why there were two main trees mentioned in Eden.
We either learn from, love, and obey God's faithful representative, Christ;
    (Who was "The Word" before his earthly life -John 1:1,2,4,14
      ...God's representative to Adam and Eve.).. and to us -John 14:24,10,7)
or,
we learn from and obey God's wayward son, Satan...
   and his representatives
    (John 8:44; Rev.13:11; Dan.11:27; Rev.16:13,14;  1Tim. 4:1; Rev.22:15; Deut.32:32,33; Matt.24:4,5,24,25; 7:15;  2Cor. 11:13,14,15; Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8)
Whichever "tree" we "eat" from,
whichever "fruit" we take into us,
there are just and fair consequences as a result (Gal.6:7-9).
The fruit we bring into our heart, contains seed within it. That seed will come to fill our heart, and make manifest whose son we have chosen to become. Out of our hearts abundance, our own mouth will speak. We will propagate that which we have sown and cultivated within us (Luke 6:45,44; Matt.7:20).

If we cultivate the greatest commands to love God and neighbor (Matt.22:37,38,39,40),
we won't have any problem with Satan,
or his bad fruit that kills.

The "two trees" are still with us.
For a while, the tree of life was unreachable (Gen.3:24).
But since Jesus came to the earth,
life is again within reach (John 1:14,4; 6:58; 4:10).
So are the deadly teachings of Satan (Rev.12:9;  2Thess. 2:9; Rev.13:11;  2Cor. 4:4; 11:3).
Now we need to choose what WE will do.
Will we imitate Adam and Eve?
Which tree are we following and learning from today?
Whose "fruit" will we "eat"?
Which seed will we cultivate in our heart, and which resulting crop will we be identified with?
(Luke 8:11,15; Matt.13:37-39)

I hope these thoughts give you more to think about,
and maybe feel better about the righteousness of God's Justice,
and how it was dispensed in Eden.

Also remember, that when Adam and Eve wanted to hide their sin from God,
what did they do?
They covered their private parts. (Gen.3:7,10,11)
Do you remember what the desire was,
of the spirits who left heaven? (Gen.6:1,2)
Can you consider the possible reason why Satan wanted to guide Eve into sin?
Yet to do so, he first had to offer Eve symbolic "fruit"...
teachings that mislead, and went contrary to God's instruction through the "Word"
(Matt.19:4,5,6;  1Cor. 7:2).

There is more to the story of Eden than the symbols.
We need to see behind the story and symbols to understand the whole picture.

When we see more, we understand more,
that God is always just, loving and righteous.
He is never the source of Bad or injustice.
I hope the other considerations I offer you,
will help you to see that better.

Love in Christ,
Pearl

This discussion continues, at:
    Link:the-garden-of-eden-new-creation-seven

Link:"The Original Sin"

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What's in a Name?

A QUESTION I RECEIVED:

If a Christian is someone who worships Christ, why do JWs call themselves Christians?  Or do they? 
If not, what religious category do they consider themselves to be?

-----------------------------------

MY REPLY:

To answer this with accuracy, we will need to look at a few alternative viewpoints.
I will first take your words and viewpoints, and relate them to the group of your query.

First you say,
"If a Christian is someone who worships Christ"

When it comes to "Jehovah's Witnesses", they believe (last I heard and was taught while a member) is that a genuine Christian does not worship Christ. They teach that to be a genuine Christian is to discipline one's life in imitation of Christ's example and according to all he taught. Those teachings would be accessed through the scriptures. They also teach that imitation, study, and obedience is the limit, and all actual worship should go only to the heavenly Father of Jesus Christ, whom they call "Jehovah". They see a difference between obedient service, and worship. The Bible does not make this distinction.
My reply to this false doctrine, can be found here:
"Worship Christ?"

So when you ask,
"why do JWs call themselves Christians?"....

it is because their idea of Christian, is to obey the teachings and example of Christ without worshiping him...
and this, they believe they do.

"Jehovah's Witnesses" have changed their name a few times.
First, it was "International Bible Students"
       then, "Jehovah's Witnesses"
       but now they prefer, "Jehovah's Christian Witnesses".
So as you can see by what the most recent name infers...
they do consider themselves Christian (based upon imitation, teachings, and discipleship)
while refraining from actually worshiping Christ.

They do therefore, consider themselves, Christians.
It is their hope that by adding "Christian" to their name,
they can dispel the general impression people have, that they do not believe in Jesus Christ.
They have retained the name "Jehovah" in their description,
  to emphasize who they believe should receive exclusive worship... believing the error that "Jehovah" is the name of God the Father.

Unfortunately, all these tenets of "Jehovah's Witnesses" actually obscure many accuracies and realities.
The Bible "Jehovah's Witnesses" use, translates the same Greek word "proskuneo" many different ways.
They translate it as "worship" when it refers to the heavenly Father,
but as "honor", "respect", "serve", etc., when it refers to the son, Jesus Christ.
Witnesses are generally not aware of this double standard when translating the "New Testament".

But more egregious than this inaccurate inconsistency,
is that while they appear and claim to give all glory, honor, and worship to God the Father
(even at the cost of the worship due Jesus Christ --Matt.8:2; 9:18; 15:25; 14:33; John9:35,38; Mark5:6; Luke24:52; Heb.1:6)
they have, in actuality and in practice,
placed their organization and the men who direct it,
above God, above the Bible, and above Jesus Christ as Head of his anointed bride members.

This practice is proven, every time one of their members is disfellowshipped
for lacking
unquestioning subjection and obedience to that organization, 
and perfect harmony of thought with the current doctrines of it's leaders.
This expulsion typically occurs even while those being judged establish their differences and concerns by means of scripture!
In actual practice, the scriptures must take second place to Organizational doctrine.
Obedience to God and acceptance of His Word of Truth, must yield to the demands of these rulers, and the Congregational representatives who condemn on their behalf. (Acts.4:19,20; 5:29)

The organization itself has taken on a divinity to it's followers.
By every scriptural definition of the word "worship"...
     (Rev.13:8,16; Rom.6:16  -slavery/obedience, in one's thoughts and deeds)
that word describes what is expected of the members of "Jehovah's Witnesses",
toward their organization and it's leaders.
This has replaced the worship/obedience/slavery due God Himself.

They have unwittingly replaced the God they claim to worship exclusively,
with an organizational Idol, just as was prophesied about them (Rev.13:11,12,14,15,8; 2Thess.2:2,4; Rom.1:25).

The end result is that it really doesn't matter what these people call themselves,
nor what they claim. (Matt.15:8; Titus 1:16)

In practice and in faith, they hypocritically promote an ideal which they themselves do not in actuality, practice.
Jesus Christ would never follow an organization above his direct relationship with,
and loyalty to, his heavenly Father.
He regarded the authority of God's written Word as supreme,
and he took direct guidance by means of Holy Spirit.

"Jehovah's Witnesses" fail to fulfill their own definition of "Christian", in that they fail to imitate the course of Christ, when faced with a choice between Truth and their organization's ever-changing doctrines. (Matt.23:13-39 <click on to read)
Their loyalty to God and Truth has been replaced with a loyalty to men and their doctrine (Mark 7:7; Rom.1:25).
Jesus would never commit such idolatry! (Luke 4:8)

The stature of "witness" to the God "YHVH",
is defined at Isa.43:10-21 (click on to read).
That explanation given by God Himself, states plainly and clearly,
that God's witnesses are "chosen" by him individually.
They are the same group that the Bible calls "chosen ones" (1Pet.2:9).
Just as explained at Isa.43:21; their purpose is the same as 1Pet.2:9.

The common "Jehovah's Witness" has presumptuously dared to replace that chosen group (Matt.24:15),
(pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com)
due to the corrupt doctrines dispensed by those in power above them (Rev.8:10,11; 9:1; 13:11; Luke12:45,46),
combined with the unquestioning worship (obedient slavery) with which those doctrines are received,
 as the "rank and file" gulp them down [Rev.12:16 (LINK)].... 
....[and allow those false doctrines to control their thinking and actions ("forehead" and "right hand") Rev.13:16 ...rather than God (Deut.11:18)] (LINK).
(1John4:1; Matt.24:24,25; 23:24; Gal.1:10; 1Cor.7:23) (LINK)
 God's Word prophesies about this very group, as being false witnesses (Rev.13:16,17,18), all the while wrongly assuming that they are bearing His Holy Name (Jer.25:29,30; Joel 3:13; Rev.14:19)!
(pearl-666.blogspot.com)
(pearl-winepress.blogspot.com)


Your last question...
"what religious category do they consider themselves to be?"

"Jehovah's Witnesses" consider themselves within the exclusive category as the only ones deserving of eternal life. They falsely assume this, essentially because they have the approval of men.
This approval of an organization gives them a false confidence of "peace and security" with God (1Thess.5:3; Ps.146:3).
But they fail to fear God alone, by seeking His approval by means of God's own expressed requirements. (John5:44,41; 12:43; 1Thess.2:6; Matt.25:45,46; Gal.1:10)
They believe that they are the "Great Crowd" of Rev.7:9-17,
even though the Bible's definition according to the Bible's description of the traits this group possesses,
defines the Great Crowd, as the remnant (last) of the chosen priests.

(Rev.7:15; 2Chron.23:6)(Mark13:14)

All descriptions within Revelation, are symbolic.
The meaning of "Great" is given to us,
at Matt.5:19 B.
It has nothing to do with 
conveying the size of this group,
which we are told, is inestimable. (Rev.7:9)

Thank you for your good questions. I hope my reply was satisfactory.
If any need remains, please respond with a follow-up question.
There is a contact form in the right side column of this page,
for that purpose.

All the best,
Pearl

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What's wrong with "peace and security"?

1Thess.5:2,3,4 reads:
"for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief."

What do we learn from these verses?
We learn that the "day of the Lord"'s inspection will not be expected by those who are "in darkness". That darkness will allow a sense of "peace and safety" which will prove to be a snare. (Amos 5:18)
From these two facts,
we understand that there is a danger, which those in darkness will not recognize, as they enjoy a false sense of security.
This perilous perspective is prophesied to occur, in "the day of the Lord"...
the time in which the scroll of Revelation takes place (1Thess.5:2; Rev.1:10).

The Greek word used by Paul for “peace” is “eirene”.
This word is used in the New Testament as an equivalent of the Hebrew
word “schalom”, which often occurs in the Old Testament.
Schalom did not merely refer to “peace” in the political sense, but especially
and primarily, to God’s good will toward men, “God’s peace” / peace with God.

Paul’s use of the expression “Peace  (eirene) and safety” is
commonly supposed to be an allusion to Jeremiah’s words about the
Jews of his time at Jer.5:14NIV ; (Jer.23:29; Matt.10:20; Rev.11:3,5)
and Jer.8:11; 14:13-14:
“They have healed also the hurt of my people slightly, saying,
Peace, peace; when there is no peace" (with God) (due to their "hurting" God's people - 1Pet.2:10,9,5;  1Cor.3:16-17)...."But, "Ah, Lord GOD!" I said, "Look, the prophets are telling them, 'You will not see the sword nor will you have famine, but I will give you lasting peace in this place.'" Then the LORD said to me, "The prophets are prophesying falsehood in My name. I have neither sent them nor commanded them nor spoken to them; they are prophesying to you a false vision, divination, futility and the deception of their own minds." 

As in Jeremiah's day, a "false prophet" is also among God's people (Rev.19:20; 13:11,7; 16:13; 20:10; Dan.11:31,33; Rev.13:10,8; Dan.8:11,12,13,24;  2Thess.2:4,8) (Link:"False-Teachers"). If the spiritual reality is actually one of danger and divine condemnation (Luke 21:8,12,16-17,21-22,36,24; Col.2:8; Rev.2:10; 13:10,7; Matt.24:24-25,15-16;  2Thess.2:3-4) (1Pet.4:17; Luke 21:36; Rev.6:17; 14:19; Jer.25:30,29) then where would these people (in the time of the end) get the impression that their standing with God, is peaceful and secure?
God's Word tells us...
Jer.5:30,31,12; 8:11; 23:16,17,21,22,32; Rev.16:13; 13:11,12,14,15,8,4;  1Tim.4:1.
The prominent prophets among God's people are false. They are the ones who mislead God's people into a false sense of peace with God and security from the enemy (Eze.13:10; Dan.9:26; Rev.12:15; Luke 21:9; Rev.19:11,14; 17:14;  2Chron.16:9;  1Thess.5:3,2).
This is a repeat to the situation back when God's people were captive to the king of Babylon.
This "king of Babylon" identity is prophetically fulfilled in Leviathan/Satan; and captivity to "Babylonian" figures is the fulfillment taking place in the Lord's day (Rev.9:11; 13:10; 17:5,15,18).

This prophesy corresponds to the events to befall God's people (the anointed) during the Lord's Day. They too are captive to "Babylon the Great" and it's *king (Rev.9:11; 12:17; 13:7,10; 11:2), through their association with
*Babylon's Queen (BTG --Rev.18:7),
*her harlot daughters (Rev.16:13,15; 17:5,15,18; 18:4,3),
and Satan's *"son of destruction" (the "man of lawlessness"/"Wild Beast") (2Thess.2:3,4; Rev.9:7; 13:1,5,6,7,8,10). God's Temple is being "trampled" by Gentiles (Matt.5:13; Rev.11:2; Luke 21:24; Dan.8:11; 9:26;  2Thess.2:4). Yet they are mislead to think they are at peace (even in a "spiritual paradise").

God's people (unsealed chosen ones) are being disciplined/taken captive/tormented, for their idolatry to the Organization (Image of Wild Beast) through it's army of representatives (Wild Beast) (Rev.9:3,4; 13:7) (Greatest Tribulation - what&why), and need to be awoken, cleansed and refined upon Christ's return (Mal.2:1,2; 3:1,2,3,4).
These agents of Satan* (Rev.16:13; 13:11) likewise lull God's people into a false sense of safety and protection (Rev.13:8,4,3; Matt.24:23-25,22,13; 19:25-26) while they are in reality, still under Satan's masked dominion....
"And just as a child seeks his parents' protection when a storm rages, we seek protection in Jehovah's organization" (w11 4/15 pp. 3-5)
"'Seeking Jehovah' today involves developing and maintaining a warm personal relationship with him in association with his earthly organization." Zeph.2:2,3 (w01 2/15 pp. 17-22)
(LINK)
It would appear that "Jehovah's Witnesses" are being taught, that they have protection, peace and security with God, dependent upon their standing with the Organization (Rom.1:25). Are these two different identities (God and the Organization) interchangeable? (Isa.40:25; 42:8) Can our worship, obedience, and approval from God be mediated through an organization (Gal.1:10), thereby providing us with divine "peace and security"?
The organization has taught that "devotional aids" such as statues of saints are forbidden and are considered idols, even when the person who uses them states that they are simply an aid to help him feel closer to God. How is it that the WT sees these mediating "aids" as Idols, on the basis that they are not God...
Yet this reasoning is lost when that idol is their Organization?
How is the mental image of the "faithful and discreet slave" saints as mediating for us,
any different than a statue of a "saint" mediating for us?
In any case, nothing can take the place of God Himself in our obedience and service (Luke 4:8).
Can obedience and service to an organization, really keep us safe from Satan... alert and immune to his final machinations?
"all the protection God provides; through his Word, his spirit, and his organization" (w02 10/15 pp. 8-13)
True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It?, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society 1986

The "Watchtower" has prophesied peace (a "spiritual paradise") to it's followers since it's inception. It claims to be a spiritual oasis, safe from demonic threat and dominion, and separate from Satan's world.
 "Still, as a people, “the chosen ones” and their loyal companions will physically survive the end of apostate Christendom by taking refuge in Jehovah and his mountainlike organization." 
"We find refuge today in the spiritual security enjoyed by God’s people as a whole." 
"Through “the faithful and discreet slave” and elders in the congregation, we are alerted to trends in the world that could endanger that security." (w11 1/15 pp. 3-7)

"Jehovah's Witnesses" are taught that they have peace with God, and security from Satan's influence, as long as they are in unquestioning obedience and good standing, within their organization.
They teach that Satan has already been cast down, and has lost his power over the organization and it's leadership. They teach that they are under the dominion of the kingdom of God, which they claim began it's dominion over them in 1914. Assuming they are under the rule of Jesus Christ through the Organization; they feel at peace, and secure. They believe that they have found refuge from Satan's world dominion.

"Regarding those who would enjoy that restoration of true worship, Zephaniah foretold that Jehovah would save them and rejoice over them. This has proved true in our time too. After God’s Kingdom was set up in heaven, Jehovah delivered the faithful remnant of anointed ones from spiritual captivity to Babylon the Great. And he rejoices over them down to this day.
Those with the hope of living forever on earth have also got out of Babylon the Great and enjoy spiritual liberation from false religious teachings. Thus, Zephaniah 2:3 finds its major fulfillment in our time." w11 1/15 pp. 3-7
"Jehovah's visible organization is also a protection. How? At Proverbs ... be part of a people who seek, and receive, protection in God's name." w98 12/15

In Jer.28, there are two prophets...
the false prophet Hananiah, and the true prophet Jeremiah.
Hananiah tells God's people that they are set free from the king of Babylon, previous to the fulfillment of God's full discipline by captivity to the king. This is a pre-mature declaration of freedom, peace, the reestablishment of pure worship, and security.
Jeremiah wears a yoke around his neck, to symbolically depict to the people, their true situation of slavery to the king of Babylon. Only when they have completed their full sentence (for their rebellion against God -Jer.25:11,12; 29:10,11,12,13,14; Zech.1:12,13,14,15,16), will they finally be set free.

The time will come for God's Kingdom to fill the earth, when God collects together the scattered remnant... just as the time would arrive for God's people of the past to be set free from Babylon. Hananiah declared a premature prophecy of peace with God.
Does the Bible warn us of a premature declaration of peace and restoration, in the Lord's day?
Yes, and it is declared when the danger becomes the greatest...
Just as the Idol (disgusting thing) is being set up in God's Temple (Holy Place) (Eph.2:20,21,22) of anointed priests! (1Pet.2:5,9;  1Cor.3:16)
"Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, 2 not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us—whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or by letter—asserting that the day of the Lord has already come. 3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 4 He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God." (2Thess.2:1,2,3,4) (also Dan.8:11,12,24,25) (Dan.11:21,22,23,24,36,37,45; Rev.13:14,15,8,7)
(2Thess.2:8; Dan.9:27)
It has been prophesied in God's Word, that a false sense of security would occur in the time of the end. Yet we are told that by means of this "freedom from care", the enemy conquers the Holy Ones and tramples them. Do you see why this false sense of safety is dangerous?
God's Word warns us;
"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1Pet.5:8
""Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat." Luke 22:31
"Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus." (Rev.12:17)

"When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. 11 Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been." (Rev.6:9,11)

"Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy." (John 16:20)
"She was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth. The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that it might devour her child the moment he was born." (Rev.12:2,4)

"For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come." (Heb.13:14)

"Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil.2:12)

"Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34,35,36)
"What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'" (Mark 13:37)
"But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into." (Matt.24:43) (Matt.25:13)
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy" (John 10:10 A)

"From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.

22 Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!”
23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their torture stake and follow me. (Rev.6:9,11; 12:10,11)
25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done." (Matt.16:21,22,23,24,25,26,27)
Rom.6:5
-----------------------
Is this perception of present peace and security accurate?
What is the danger of feeling safe from Satan due to the supposed spiritual shelter of an organization?

Prophecy tells us that when Satan makes his final attack against the woman's seed,
they do not expect the attack, nor perceive their vulnerability (Eze.38:11,14; Jer.49:31)
Can you see that this overlaps with the period where the leaders of God's people are falsely declaring peace and security? (Eze.13:16; Rev.13:11,4;  1Thess.5:3)
Because of their drowsy, overconfident condition, they are deceived and conquered (Rev.13:7; 9:5,10; Matt.5:13; Rev.11:2; 12:4; Dan.8:10,11,12,13;  2Thess.2:4).


Anointed "Priests" and prophets must warn people according to God's truth...for their protection, awareness, and vigilance to present danger (Jer.28:8; Eze.3:4,18; Mal.2:7; Dan.12:3,10; Matt.24:45).
The war is not over yet! (Rev.12:17; Eph.6:12;  2Cor.2:9; 11:3; 10:4,5,6; Matt.24:13,11,10; 10:22; Luke 13:24)

Any "walls" erected by men, to keep Satan out are an illusion...as long as he still dominates the world (1John 5:19; Eph.5:15,16). Our only true protection is the meaning of YHWH's name (Prov.18:10) which is that HE is our only saviour (Isa.43:11; 2:22; Rev.14:7; Psalm 146:3; 118:8). We must have faith and trust in HIM and the truth of His Word, (not the doctrines of a human organization -Jer.17:5;  1John 4:1; Mark 7:7,8), in order to possess a realistic spiritual shield (Eph.6:13,16).

The anointed are not protected from Satan's machinations by means of a membership in an organization, nor by obedience to it. (Rev.12:17; Luke 22:31; Rom.6:16;  1Cor.7:23)
Whether or not the WT realizes it, they are in the same relationship with Satan that other governmental powers are. They call themselves a "Governing Body". All such structures while Satan still holds world dominion, are under Satan's control...for his use in opposing, restraining, hindering, and persecuting the faithful chosen (2Thess.2:4; Matt.4:8,9;  1Cor.15:24; Mark 10:42,43).
This world is still completely dominated by Satan, as well as all the authority and governing power within it. They are all subject to him, whether or not his subjects are aware of it.
"The Bible unmistakably identifies and unmasks the one who has been maneuvering human leaders and world powers. Whether consciously or not, human society reflects the personality of its ruler and his ‘rule or ruin’ policy."w11 9/1 pp. 7-9 The World’s Secret Ruler Exposed
Rule or Ruin is precisely the spirit behind WT policy,
which expels and slanders all those who disagree with their false doctrines,
or refuse to submit to their Idolatrous blasphemous dominion.
Rule, or, ruin.

Wisdom protects.
Ec.7:12; Prov.4:6
That wisdom begins in fearing God (Prov.9:10; Psalm 111:10; Jer.17:7)...not men (Prov.29:25).
Wisdom is not through subjection, nor a seeking of the approval from, an Organization whose authority is under the umbrella of Satan's world reign.
God's kingdom will not begin until all it's kings are sealed.

Prophecy tells us that "Jerusalem's wall" must be rebuilt.
She most certainly does still need protection from her enemies...
not by means of a false sense of security, touted by her false prophets...
but by means of the re-establishment of truth, righteousness, and humility,
behind which wall, all her inhabitants will be kept safe.

It is time to leave "Babylon",
and rebuild Jerusalem's wall of truth.
The whitewashed wall of lies is no protection.
(Isa.28:14,15,17,18,19,20; Eze.13:10,11,12,13,14,15,16)

Jer.28:15,16,17 reads:
"Then the prophet Jeremiah said to Hananiah the prophet, “Listen, Hananiah! The Lord has not sent you, yet you have persuaded this nation to trust in lies. 16 Therefore this is what the Lord says: ‘I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the Lord.’”17 In the seventh month of that same year, Hananiah the prophet died."

The "death" of our governing false prophet today, has also been prophesied (Rev.17:16,17).

So,
what's wrong with "peace and security"?
It is a lie. It deceives the unsealed chosen ones, into believing they are no longer at war.
This false sense of protection and safety leaves them open to surprise attack from Satan and his disguised agents. They are deceived into worshiping an Idol, touted by the false prophet as being the source of true peace with God.
God allows that Idol of Gentile power to dominate and persecute those who have fallen asleep in subjection to it (2Cor.11:20; Rev.13:8,7; 2:14,20; 17:2; 18:3). Only those who repent will be released from these agents of Satan, and his "mother" "covenant of death"..."Babylon the Great" when their period of cleansing is fulfilled.

I do realize that these teachings are supported by a deeper study into the foundation of these ideas.
The articles which define and explain these supporting basics, are liked below.
LINKS:
Spiritual virginity -vs- the Harlot's cup
--The Last Harlot and her Beast
----YHWH's Genuine Mountain

What is the "Disgusting Thing" in a "Holy Place"?
--Who is the "Man of Lawlessness"?
----The final deception

False Teachers
--What acts as a Restraint?
----Should we obey men?

First the Wall, then the Temple
--Who are the Mentally Diseased?
----666- What does it mean?

What is Armageddon?
--Who is "Leviathan"
----The Great Tribulation
------Who is "Babylon the Great"

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