I.I.M. 2005 Questions
linked to audio files
Who is in the Valley of The Shadow of Death?
Did our Lord partake of the Last Supper before He instituted the Memorial?
What are practical methods for keeping track of those we pray for?
Regarding the recent disaster in Asia:
(a) Would things like this have happened if Adam had not sinned? How would that have worked?
(b) Is there any prophetic significance to such major incidents?
(c) Do we have a special responsibility in connection with such disasters?
SUMMARY FROM LAST WEEK / FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Regarding the recent disaster in Asia:
(a) Would things like this have happened if Adam had not sinned? How would that have worked?
(b) Is there any prophetic significance to such major incidents?
(c) Do we have a special responsibility in connection with such disasters?
The Levites had the duty of putting the books of the Law into the side of the Ark. (Deut. 31:24-26) How could they do that and not touch the ark, which was forbidden? (Num. 4:15)
(a) Numbers 3:45-51 specifies the redemption money (silver) which was given to the Priests for the firstborn. When the Tabernacle was set up was any of this silver used for the 100 sockets of silver? If not, where did it come from?
(b) Exod. 30:16 speaks of the atonement money gathered from the children of Israel and Exod. 38:25-28 addresses the amount gathered and the specific use of the silver. Can we draw an antitypical lesson from this analogy?
What Scriptures show that Jesus was the “Son of God” before he was born in Bethlehem?
F157; Q152; R4836 & R5761 contain references to those consecrating between the ages and becoming associated with the Ancient Worthies, with the possibility of a later spiritual reward. How do we view this thought? Are there scriptures to support it?
(a) What is the basis for our acceptance into Christ? What steps must be taken to achieve this?
(b) Can anyone be accepted by God without full Consecration, Justification and Sanctification?
Regarding Stephen:
(a) In Acts 6:8-10 what are the “great wonders and miracles” of Stephen?
(b) In Acts 7:59-60 Stephen is shown to be the second martyr (after Jesus). How long after Jesus’ death did this take place? Are there any other spiritual lessons we might draw from Stephen’s life?
Questions from Luke 7:2-9
(a) Who was this Centurion?
(b) Was this Centurion’s faith greater than the Apostle’s (see verse 9)?
(c) How often do the scriptures speak of Jesus “Marveling?” Is it possible for Jesus to marvel over us?
Explain what the scripture means: “He preached to the Angels in prison”. How was this done?
What things might keep us from attaining to the Divine Nature. What must we therefore do?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
What things might keep us from attaining to the Divine Nature. What must we therefore do?
Exod. 30:34-38 — Do the “sweet spices…” mentioned here have a spiritual significance for us?
To what extent are “Adamic weaknesses” covered by the Ransom? What does this mean in a practical sense concerning weaknesses brought with us from before we consecrated?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
To what extent are “Adamic weaknesses” covered by the Ransom? What does this mean in a practical sense concerning weaknesses brought with us from before we consecrated?
Please compare Rom. 16:17 with Phil. 3:17 — How are we to “mark those” which cause divisions and offences? How are we to “avoid them”? How are we to “mark those” who are good examples?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Please compare Rom. 16:17 with Phil. 3:17 — How are we to “mark those” which cause divisions and offences? How are we to “avoid them”? How are we to “mark those” who are good examples?
F318 — What constitutes a “hobby”? What are some practical examples?
In Jude 1:9 and Daniel 12:1, who is Michael?
Matt. 24:24 “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
(a) Will the very elect be deceived?
(b) Will the Great Company be deceived?
(c) What could these deceptions be?
(d) What part could the fallen angels play in the deceptions of Matt. 24:24?
(e) What bearing might our beliefs have on whether or not we fall into the Great Company?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Matt. 24:24 “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
(a) Will the very elect be deceived?
(b) Will the Great Company be deceived?
(c) What could these deceptions be?
(d) What part could the fallen angels play in the deceptions of Matt. 24:24?
(e) What bearing might our beliefs have on whether or not we fall into the Great Company?
We are supposed to be “Pilgrims and Strangers” on the earth. What are practical dangers of becoming too “comfortable” here?
What should our priorities be in personal study:
(a) Ranking in relative importance the Volumes, the Reprints and other writings?
(b) In respect to our individual growth as we progress from babes to youth to adults?
F459, par. 2 — Regarding the tribe of Levites — “…which gives up inheritance in earthly things on behalf of the brethren…” [Please read context]
Does the expression “which gives up inheritance in earthly things on behalf of the brethren,” refer to the bride class giving up their inheritance in earthly things on behalf of our spirit begotten brethren this side of the vail or on behalf of our brethren in a broader sense in the next age as part of the mediator helping them walk up the highway of holiness?
There is much written and said about earthquakes, trouble, famine, plagues, etc. as proofs that we are in the “End Times”. Should we expect literal as well as symbolic fulfillments? Are we seeing these things now?
Num. 7:6-9 treats of the distribution of the wagons offered by the Princes of Israel. Is there an allegorical teaching for us here?
R4208:page 217, subheading “The Test of Perfect Love” mentions the concept of anarchy in the true Church. Please discuss what this means, how it will be manifested, its causes, its remedies, etc.
How do we understand Rom. 8:26 “the spirit also helpeth our infirmities.”
When will individuals of the world of mankind receive justification under the New Covenant?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
When will individuals of the world of mankind receive justification under the New Covenant?
Exod. 40:17 tells us when the Tabernacle was reared up, and Num. 10:11,12 relates to the day the Tabernacle started its journey from Sinai. Is there a spiritual lesson we can draw from this illustration?
What are the practical implications of believing that the Harvest ended in 1914?
(a) respecting spirit-begettal
(b) respecting the Harvest Work
(c) respecting participation in the Memorial
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
What are the practical implications of believing that the Harvest ended in 1914?
(a) respecting spirit-begettal
(b) respecting the Harvest Work
(c) respecting participation in the Memorial
Does spirit-begettal cease:
a) when the Gospel Age Harvest ends?
b) beyond the chart’s “dotted line”?
If Jesus celebrated the Passover at “an unauthorized time of day” would that be a violation of Matt. 5:18,19 and Luke 16:17 (in particular: breaking a feature of the law and teaching others to do so)?
How do we understand the term “grace” as used in the Scriptures and Harvest Message? For example: in the Manna of March 25th it seems to equate grace with righteousness and goodness. In many other places we are told that grace is “favor” or “blessing”.
Several scriptures use war as a picture of the Christian walk. How can we apply this symbolic picture in practical ways? For instance, what should our attitude be toward “casualties” around us? What ways can we help our brethren to survive in the midst of battle? Is there a special way in which this symbolic picture applies now with the feet members? Etc.
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Several scriptures use war as a picture of the Christian walk. How can we apply this symbolic picture in practical ways? For instance, what should our attitude be toward “casualties” around us? What ways can we help our brethren to survive in the midst of battle? Is there a special way in which this symbolic picture applies now with the feet members? Etc.
What can we say to people of the world, and nominal Christians especially, to console them when they lose a spouse or children? (This may seem like a simple question but they do not understand Truth concepts as we do. We can’t say “your loved one is in heaven” because that would be a lie. They often do not want to hear the Truth because they are in grief and don’t want to hear a new thought.)
Phil. 4:5 says: “Let your moderation be known unto all men.” How do we accomplish this?
Does Isaiah 26:16-21 refer to the resurrection? Whose “dead body” is referred to in verse 19?
How could St. Paul and the other Apostles be servants of the New Covenant if it was not yet in existence? (2 Cor. 3:6) When will it be established?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
How could St. Paul and the other Apostles be servants of the New Covenant if it was not yet in existence? (2 Cor. 3:6) When will it be established?
How can we contrast Adam and Eve with Christ and the Church?
Regarding the sixth plague: Could Rev. 16:12 mean an economic plague? If so, what would be appropriate ways for us to prepare for this plague? Should we prepare in earthly ways (i.e. save up money instead of using it to go to conventions), or wait on the Lord and trust that He will provide?
What proofs do we have that the Ransom has been paid?
Do we have evidence of how many came out of Egypt at the time of the Exodus? (Some have said that “thousands” means “families”.)
In John 20:22, Jesus “breathed” on the Apostles some days before Pentecost. What does this mean?
If the ancient worthies are going to have a spiritual reward, will that involve spirit-begettal?
The Manna of May 1st makes it sound like all we have to do to make our calling and election sure is take care of our natural family and it will be “counted of the Lord as so much done to Him.” What is the correct thought?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
The Manna of May 1st makes it sound like all we have to do to make our calling and election sure is take care of our natural family and it will be “counted of the Lord as so much done to Him.” What is the correct thought?
How do we understand 1 Tim. 4:10 where it speaks of the special salvation of those that believe? What is this special salvation?
F636:2 “More than this: our Lord intimates that it would have been a sinful misuse of power for him to have used the aid of the holy Spirit in the relief of such temporal needs, because it was at his disposal for another purpose. To have called on divine power for his relief or protection from any part of the dying processes would have been sin; because he had made a covenant of sacrifice, and any appeal from its effects would have been ‘drawing back.’ ‘If any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.’ Heb. 10:38; Matt. 26:53” (and onward to F638)
a) Is it a sin to pray for the physical healing of a consecrated one?
b) Is it a sin to pray for the physical healing of one who is not consecrated?
c) What can we pray for concerning the Brethren that are sick and hurting?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
F636:2 “More than this: our Lord intimates that it would have been a sinful misuse of power for him to have used the aid of the holy Spirit in the relief of such temporal needs, because it was at his disposal for another purpose. To have called on divine power for his relief or protection from any part of the dying processes would have been sin; because he had made a covenant of sacrifice, and any appeal from its effects would have been ‘drawing back.’ ‘If any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.’ Heb. 10:38; Matt. 26:53” (and onward to F638)
a) Is it a sin to pray for the physical healing of a consecrated one?
b) Is it a sin to pray for the physical healing of one who is not consecrated?
c) What can we pray for concerning the Brethren that are sick and hurting?
In the parable of the wedding garment (Matt. 22:11-13) the servants are told to “bind hand and foot” the one who took off the robe. Who are the servants? What does this mean for us? Are there examples around us today?
In Volume III, page 207, starting with the last paragraph, it mentions three ways we might know that the door is shut. Brother Russell eliminates the first two and explains in detail the third as the only correct one: the “dark night wherein no man can work”.
(a) Is this reasoning still valid?
(b) If so, what does this mean in practical ways?
(c) Where does the burning of the tares fit into this scenario? [See C210:2]
Where do our trials come from? What tests does the New Creation go through?
Matt. 5:39-41: What does it mean to “turn the other cheek” and how do we apply it today in a practical way?
What characteristics of Christianity, Christians, and the world were in place which made 1874-1914 and onward, ripe for the foretold harvest? Do those characteristics still exist today?
In Volume I (A127) it says: “having brought us into being, no law of equity or justice binds Jehovah to perpetuate our being everlastingly, nor even to grant us a trial under promise of everlasting life if obedient.” How could a loving God create any being “in His image”, which would naturally desire eternal life, (Eccl. 3:11), but never give that being some means to actually live forever? Would that not be against his character? Or is this simply a misunderstanding of Br. Russell’s words?
In reference to the attack of Gog of Magog and the aftermath, what does Ezekiel 39:12-13 mean, specifically in regard to the “seven months”. If this is 210 years, when does it start?
What practical difference is there in sleeping in death compared to being raised “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye” since the dead person, once raised, wouldn’t know the difference?
In Exod. 13:12,13 it says that the firstborn of animals belonged to the Lord, and in verse 13 it says that the firstborn of a donkey had to be redeemed by a lamb. What is the significance of this?
Matt. 24:14 “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Is this in the past, present, or future? How do we understand this?
Regarding the Elijah / Elisha type and antitype:
a. In 2 Kings 2:3,7 who do the “50 sons of the prophets” represent in type and antitype?
b. In 2 Kings 2:2,4,6 is there any significance to the three times when Elijah tells Elisha to “stay here, please” at Bethel, Jericho and Jordan?
c. In 2 Kings 2:16 why did the sons of the prophets request to look for Elijah on a mountain when they knew very well that the Lord had taken him? (verse 3) Is there any significance to the “mountain”?
Does 1 Tim. 2:3-6 indicate that the MAN Christ Jesus was ever a mediator? If so, what meaning is to be applied to the word “mediator” in this instance?
At what time is someone relegated to the Great Company? Can it be in this life, or only at death? When would their crown be available for a replacement?
What is the specific meaning of each term “called”, “chosen” and “faithful” in Rev. 17:14? Is there a connection with Matt. 20:16 and Matt. 22:14? Who is represented in each class?
Why did God especially choose the land of Israel to give to Abraham? Is there something about the land there that is different geographically and/or geologically with any other place on earth?
When people are resurrected, will they come back in the place where they died? Would that not mean that some places would be overcrowded? Will they go to live in the “wilderness” after this? [Isaiah 35:1]
If the Scapegoat, or Azazel’s Goat bore away the sin of the people in the type, what does this mean in the antitype, does this mean that the Great Company also are part of the “sin offerings” as typified by the scapegoat having the sins of the people placed upon it and sent away in the wilderness?
Does Matthew 11:27 suggest that none of the angelic host is intimately close to the Father? In any case is such intimate closeness limited to Christ and his bride?
Although he knew he was special, and called by God for some special purpose, it seems that memories of his time with God were hidden from Jesus’ until his immersion. Why was this so?
In the original Hebrew, Proverbs 8:29 seems to indicate that God designed the shape of all the continents. If so, why was this done, and what purpose might it have served?
Is there any scripture, or set of scriptures, that clearly indicates the role animals play for mankind? Are the varying qualities of their makeup meant to teach us anything?
As each restitution blessing has emerged, it has also brought about, or been preceded by trouble. Does God ever use violent or immoral means to bring about change?
What are some earthly events we may expect to occur, or come about, to clearly show the harvest work is over and the Church has all gone beyond the veil?
Certain brethren suggest the fallen angels may already be materializing and in places of political power. What proof do we have for such a thought, and if so, why are God’s people not being specifically affected? When will we know that the fallen angels have had their chains fully loosened?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Certain brethren suggest the fallen angels may already be materializing and in places of political power. What proof do we have for such a thought, and if so, why are God’s people not being specifically affected? When will we know that the fallen angels have had their chains fully loosened?
The installation of the mediatorial phase of the Kingdom has many technical and doctrinal features, but what practical actions and events will indicate it has physically begun?
As recorded in Matthew 18:3-5, and 19:14, our Lord said that those who will reign in the Kingdom of God must be like a little child. What are the qualities of a little child, and how does one properly attain them?
Volume 2, page 266, paragraph 1 deals with Elisha as a picture of the Ancient Worthies acting in the future under the direction of the glorified Church. Many examples are given of the healing and restoring work done by Elisha.
The question regards only the last sentence in this paragraph. Here Brother Russell cites the occasion when Elisha was the agent in anointing Jehu, under whom Ahab and Jezebel were cut off. Is this intended to indicate the Ahab and Jezebel pictures are still to be deposed by the resurrected Ancient Worthies, or does this last example find fulfillment before the glorification of the Church mentioned at the beginning of the paragraph?
R4918 : page 423 says: “To be easily provoked is to have a bad temper, fretfulness, bad humor, touchiness, quickness to take offense.” Could we discuss each of these five symptoms, and ways to combat the underlying problem?
Where should we draw the line between taking personal initiative in contrast with seeking ecclesia sponsorship of Truth projects, witness work, etc.
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Where should we draw the line between taking personal initiative in contrast with seeking ecclesia sponsorship of Truth projects, witness work, etc.
We know that Jesus kept the Law perfectly, but was this counted from (1) the time of his birth, (2) from the age of 13, or (3) from the time of his immersion?
Are the differences between the “overcomers” and “more than overcomers” primarily in heart condition and character, or are there also outward differences that can be seen between these two groups?
How will the administration of the Kingdom rule using a “rod of iron” be expressed, in practical “daily” terms?
Did God create life out of joy, or out of personal need?
Jesus learned obedience by the things he suffered, but since God is love why was it allowed to be so violent and gory?
In chapter 4 of Vol. 3 what translation of the Bible did Bro. Russell use? In the original foreword he mentions he will use different translations but doesn’t specify which. Should we just accept his interpretations without researching the source? This is a real challenge in translation since the Bible in other languages doesn’t always correspond to the English. If we don’t have a source to quote from it may be hard for the brethren from other countries to accept.
Questions on the “Book of Life”:
(a) In regards Revelation 20:12, what are the books that were opened? What does the “Book of Life” signify?
(b) Revelation 3:5 describes a class whose names will not be blotted out of the “Book of Life”. Is that “Book of Life” the same “Book of Life” mentioned in Revelation 20:12?
(c) When does one get his name written in the Revelation 20:12 reference to the “Book of Life” and once entered, is it possible for it to be blotted out?
(d) Where does the Great Company fit into the “Book of Life”? Are their names written in it?
Why would God allow such horrible afflictions to come upon Job just to prove a point to Satan?
If God already knows what is in our heart, and what we will say, why is it necessary to pray? (Rom 8:26,27)
Isaiah 1:26 “I will restore thy judges as at the first and thy counsellors as at the beginning.” Will the Ancient Worthies be the Judges and counsellors?
John 10:17-18 (also John 2:18-22). How does Jesus raise himself from the Dead?
What are the practical differences between a person consecrating before the end of the general call, and one consecrating as a replacement?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
What are the practical differences between a person consecrating before the end of the general call, and one consecrating as a replacement?
When we find ourselves in a hard situation which takes away from our study time, how do we determine when it’s time to give up and walk away from the situation in order to have more time for the Lord?
What scriptures (aside from Romans 11) show the process of restoration of Israel? Any thoughts on the fact that 5 out of 6 Cities of Refuge are currently in Arab hands?
ONLINE RESOURCE: Map showing the cities of refuge
What can we, as individuals, do to live the following scriptures on a daily basis:
(a) Isa. 40:1-2
(b) Isa 52:7-8
(c) Psa 149:5-9
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
What can we, as individuals, do to live the following scriptures on a daily basis:
(d) Rev. 11:15
(e) Matt 13:30
1 Tim. 3:4 — Should consecrated parents be held responsible in some way for the sins of their adult children?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
1 Tim. 3:4 — Should consecrated parents be held responsible in some way for the sins of their adult children?
What is a principle? What are examples of scriptural principles?
In Gen 13:16 “…and I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth…” how is this “dust of the earth” different from the promise in Gen 22:17 and 32:12 where the seed is said to be “as the sand which is upon the seashore” and “make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered for multitude”?
How can human life last eternally when, at some distant point in the future, perhaps many millions or billions of years, the brain will have fully filled its capacity. Although the Bible doesn’t seem to give an answer, what is likely to happen at and after that point?
When our cultural traditions differ from the practices either expressed or encouraged in the Bible, which are we to follow?