I.I.M. 2010 Questions
linked to audio files
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Sometimes it is said when we have a difficult experience or are treated unjustly or misunderstood that if our feelings are hurt it is an indication of pride. Is that always true? Shouldn’t we have some “smarting of feelings” when justice is violated? Did Jesus have hurt feelings when he rejected the nation of Israel? Did Jesus have hurt feelings when he heard Peter’s denial?
Gen 14:20 and Gen 28:22 show the first cases of the giving of the “tithe”. What was the basis and meaning of this?
In James 2:9, what does it mean to have “respect of persons” and what all does that include?
Amos 1:1 Gives the time setting of the giving of this prophetic book as “two years before the earthquake”. Which earthquake? Is there any prophetic significance to the two years?
(a) In 1 Pet. 4:1, who does “he” refer to?
(b) What connection do the sinful practices of verses 2-4 have in the context with “suffering in the flesh”?
TO BE CONTINUED
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
(a) In 1 Pet. 4:1, who does “he” refer to?
(b) What connection do the sinful practices of verses 2-4 have in the context with “suffering in the flesh”?
We often quote Luke 19:40 which says: “If these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.”
Luke 3:8 says: “God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.”
What does the latter mean? Are the two verses related to each other?
Are Deut. 33:2; Zec. 14:5; Mt. 16:27; Mk. 8:38; Luke 9:26 and Jude 14,15 all speaking of the same thing?
Rev 21:22 — “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.” Is this a proof that Ezechiel’s Temple will not be built as a literal temple?
Are there two types of “tempting” – God’s type and the Devil’s type? (Compare Gen. 22:1 and Mt. 4:7)
Gen. 4:20 – “And Adah bare Jabal: he was the father of such as dwell in tents, and of such as have cattle.” What are the cattle mentioned here?
Rev. 3:17 (Diaglott) Speaks of the sins of Babylon. Is there danger of this scripture applying to the Bible Students? How should we answer those who believe this way?
Is there significance to the TWO times that Hagar fled? See Gen. 16:6-15 and Gen. 21:14-21.
How do we prove that the Bride of Christ will receive immortality?
At what point in time does John/Church (21:1) see a “new heavens and a new earth”? Can this be before the New Jerusalem is complete and ready? (verse 2) If so, why?
In 1 Cor. 9:1,2 Paul seems to be giving arguments to prove he is an Apostle. What are those criteria — listed both here and elsewhere?
Is there a difference between “seeing” death and “tasting” death? See John 8:51,52.
A select few individuals had their names changed by God or Jesus. (Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel, Cephas to Peter, Saul to Paul, etc.) What is the significance of this action, and the choice of names given?
What are the bitter herbs referred to in Ex. 12:8 & Num. 9:11?
In Acts 4:36, who is “Joses” and how is he a Levite?
In Isa 23:15-17 is the 70 years a prophecy? If so, what does it mean that Tyre will [re]turn to her hire, etc.?
In Ecclesiastes 9:11 we are told that “time and chance happen to all”.
(a) Does this also apply to the saints in the present time?
(b) If not, are there ever any experiences of ours which are not overseen by the Lord?
(c) Conversely, are there ever times when the Lord overrules our experiences in a manner that effects other unconsecrated people? (i.e. weather or other natural catastrophes; a person’s behavior; etc.)
(d) We know that all men are under sin and not being dealt with at the present time, yet many have had life-altering experiences or apparent “overrulings” which they attribute to God and/or which brought them away from sin and to God. Does God interfere at all in the experiences of any of the unconsecrated for their future benefit?
(e) Are holy angels watching over the affairs of every human being?
Question: Jesus was baptized at Jordan as a picture of his immersion into the heavenly Father’s will. Some believe that the apostles and disciples were not baptized, since Jews could be directly transferred from the “house of servants” to the “house of sons”.
However there are scriptures which indicate that Jews were baptised and that baptism was not restricted to Gentiles. (John 4:1; John 3:22; Acts 2:37-41; etc.)
Is there any evidence that the apostles were not baptised or is this conjecture?
In the “little season” when Satan is released how will he be able to accomplish anything if the millions of angels who had been assisting him in the millennia past had already been either reformed or cast into second death?
Can we speak of illnesses we have as a “sin-offering experience”? In the Kingdom we will better understand the past of other people who have had the same illnesses. It is educational to us in that way, but is it proper to speak of such as “sin-offering experiences”?
In the “Vow Unto the Lord” we vow to resist anything akin to spiritism and occultism. To what degree should we resist these “snares”? Spiritism is rampant, almost epidemic in our modern age. Should we be watching everything we see, read, watch, hear, etc… How careful and how much attention to details should we exercise in this regard?
The concept of “the Christ” being not one, but many, is found often in the writings of the Apostle Paul. Can proofs for this concept be found in the writings of another “witness” in addition to Paul?
Rev 21:3 “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.” Can God’s tabernacle holy condition (Rev. 21:3) be opened to man before the Church is finished with it? Or will that condition wait until afterward to be opened to them? [See also Rev. 15:8 re: “no man”.]
Can restitution blessings begin now on the earth even though the blood has not been applied for the world and the Mediatorial Kingdom is not yet operative?
In 2 Thess 2:11 we read that God will send “strong delusions”. Past discussion on this verse focused entirely on the “man of sin” and related to doctrinal delusions, but what about other delusions that are not directly related to doctrinal matters per se? There is a lot of talk recently by high-ranked government and military officials about an “imminent disclosure” that there has been a secret “extraterrestrial presence” on earth since the late 1940s. Even the Vatican has weighed in on it and said that such creatures are free from sin and are our brothers created by God. How can we avoid this and other non-doctrinal delusions? Or does 2 Thess. 2:11 only refer to doctrinal delusions?
Stoning was appointed for various situations under the Mosaic law for both man and beast such as Num. 15:32-35 and Exod. 21:28-29.
Given the sacred aspect of all life, why has God appointed stoning with its brutality and suffering for the victim? What effect or lesson was intended for both the victim and the stoner in this experience? Will such methods be used in the Kingdom to destroy the incorrigible?
Genesis 4:21,22 mentions complex musical instruments as well as works of brass and iron. This was within a few generations of Adam. Eccl. 7:29 refers to other inventions made by Adam. Are these indications of an advanced society before the flood?
A peculiar expression occurs in Gen. 4:26: “…then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.” What is this referring to? Is it talking about prayer? If so, does it mean that there was no prayer prior to the birth of Seth?
In Genesis 2:25 and 3:21 we are told that prior to their expulsion from Eden both Adam and Eve were naked. Is this to be taken literally, or might it be symbolic since it is only ever mentioned in the context of their sin? If it is literal will mankind return to this state in the “ages to come”? Why or why not?
Mark 8:19,20 relates two separate incidents when Jesus miraculously fed the multitudes:
Verse 19 (Mark 6:41): 5 loaves + 2 fish ÷ 5000 = 12 baskets of fragments
Verse 20 (Matt. 15:34): 7 loaves + few fish ÷ 4000 = 7 baskets of fragments
Whenever specific numbers are mentioned in Scripture, it usually means something beyond mere information. Is there possible symbolic significance here?
In a practical way what are the qualities of a healthy ecclesia?
CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK:
In a practical way what are the qualities of a healthy ecclesia?
Our Lord told Peter by what death he would die and that it should glorify God (John 21:18,19). An “Old-timer” once said that the Lord would choose a death for each consecrated that would glorify God. Have the Brethren any thoughts on this statement?
Generally when we study Daniel 2 and Daniel 7 we compare the four universal empires through history. Daniel 2 showing man’s viewpoint and Daniel 7 showing God’s viewpoint.
(a) What can we learn from comparing and contrasting how the fourth in each picture is destroyed? In Dan 2:34,35 the image is smitten, broken to pieces and blown away. In Dan 7:11 the beast is slain, destroyed and burned.
(b) What can we learn from how the fifth universal empire is described in each picture?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Generally when we study Daniel 2 and Daniel 7 we compare the four universal empires through history. Daniel 2 showing man’s viewpoint and Daniel 7 showing God’s viewpoint.
(a) What can we learn from comparing and contrasting how the fourth in each picture is destroyed? In Dan 2:34,35 the image is smitten, broken to pieces and blown away. In Dan 7:11 the beast is slain, destroyed and burned.
(b) What can we learn from how the fifth universal empire is described in each picture?
Ruth 4:4 What lessons are in the proposal from Boaz for the nearer “kinsman” to first redeem Naomi’s field and inheritance before himself? (Ruth 4:6) What was the issue that such a purchase would “mar” the inheritance of the kinsman, and yet was an advantage for Boaz?
If an elder, in personal fellowship, makes the statement that: “We walk by faith, and not by sight…” and proceeds to apply this with conclusions that: “None of us can know for certain if we really do have the truth.” “We cannot know for certain if there is a resurrection after death, an earthly Kingdom, etc.” Would such conclusions disqualify that Brother to be an elder, even though he says that he believes the Truth?
What does C215:2 mean? (“When, therefore…”) Is Brother Russell saying we should be doing work only for the consecrated? Does this mean we should not do anything for the World?
Gen 17:10-14 Speaks of circumcision on the 8th day. Usually the 8th day is a picture of the “Ages to Come”. Does this picture have a prophetic significance?
How can we best help and/or comfort one of the Lord’s people who has a fear of the second death?
Exod. 12:14 “And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.”
Looking at the Memorial of the Antitype, and the Completion of the Church; will mankind keep this blessed Memorial of the Lamb of God slain, & forever?
Remembering — the saving of the first born meant also the saving of all Israelites hence all kept the Passover feast as an Ordinance.
Could it be said that Bible Students in essence accept the “Apostles Creed” as biblically sound? Does the “What We Believe” synopsis found on many Bible Student convention programs and websites constitute a “creed”?
Who is the messenger in Revelation 21:9? Why is he chosen to show John the Lamb’s wife? What connection is there with the seven last plagues mentioned in this verse?
God / Magog
(a) Is there evidence to show who are the modern nations identified in Ezekiel 38:1-5,13 including both Gog and Magog?
(b)Why is the “little season” in Revelation 20:8 compared to this event?
(c) Is there any significance to the fact Ezekiel uses “Gog OF Magog” while Revelation uses “Gog AND Magog”?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
God / Magog
(a) Is there evidence to show who are the modern nations identified in Ezekiel 38:1-5,13 including both Gog and Magog?
(b)Why is the “little season” in Revelation 20:8 compared to this event?
(c) Is there any significance to the fact Ezekiel uses “Gog OF Magog” while Revelation uses “Gog AND Magog”?
What is the literal meaning (rather than spiritual meaning) of the phrase: “eating the sour grape and having the teeth set on edge”? (Jer. 31:29,20; Ezek. 18:2)
In the book of Haggai, who is represented by Zerubbabel, Joshua and Darius? What is the prophetic time setting?
Regarding the generation mentioned in Luke 21:29-33 and the parallel accounts, is it a literal chronological time period? Which generation is it specifically? (i.e. Those born during, or those who were eyewitnesses.)
Gen 7:2 Mentions clean and unclean animals. This was long before the Mosaic Law. What is the significance of this? Should we be observant of this in some way?
The Pastor suggests that Jesus’ body might have been dissolved in order to fulfill the prophecy that his flesh would not see corruption. Is this still a valid and logical view? Are there any alternative views?
Does the term “God” in the book of Revelation always refer to Jehovah? If not, what are other applications for this term? (i.e. To whom would it apply?)
In a Testimony meeting Br. Russell’s natural sister stated that when he, she, and their father gained a greater understanding of the Divine Plan that they all renewed their consecration and were re-immersed. Is re-immersion a scriptural practice? Are there any circumstances where one of the consecrated and spirit-begotten would do this today?
The Pastor suggested that elders should occasionally decline nomination/election. Has this ever been practiced with any regularity, and should it be? What dangers might exist for those who become prominent elders? Is it ever appropriate to treat someone as a chief or head elder?
Isa 28:21 — In the prophetic context, what is the nature of the strange work and act?
Judges 6:7-10 — Who is the prophet mentioned in this context?
In OV392:
(a) The Pastor claims the nobler powers of the brain are in the top, and baser elements in the basement of the brain. Has any of science proven this to be true in the last several decades? Else, how did the Pastor know to make this claim?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
In OV392:
(b) The Pastor thought that animals could not discern between right and wrong. Hasn’t it been proven that animals do think, do have feelings (including love and hate), and do have a sense of right and wrong – can make judgments; albeit some priorities are more basic?
What are the tongues of angels in 1 Cor. 13:1
1 John 3:2 we apply to the appearance of our Lord at his second advent, but he is not mentioned, only God, in verses 1 and 2. How do we explain this?
There is no separate Hebrew word for “time” in Lev 26 for the seven [times]. Does this change any emphasis or connection with the 2520 years or affect the connection with Daniel 4:23; 7:23,25,32; Ezek 21:25-27 or Luke 21:24 with the Times of the Gentiles?
Do we have any direct scriptures indicating the Church will be part of the world’s Mediator. Otherwise what line of evidence do we use for this?
Part of Bible Students understanding of the Ransom, etc., is that the Jews were given a promise of eternal human life if they kept the Law. This concept forms a vital part of the philosophy of Jesus’ two sets of life rights (one for the Ransom which he gave at Calvary, and the other as a reward for keeping the law which he received at his resurrection).
(a) What proof scriptures make such a statement?
(b) How does this concept fit with the “Red Heifer” picture of Numbers 19? Tabernacle Shadows 109-111 says they never wore a yoke–were made free of the Law Covenant. Does this imply that God rewarded them with everlasting life as though they had kept the Law?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Part of Bible Students understanding of the Ransom, etc., is that the Jews were given a promise of eternal human life if they kept the Law. This concept forms a vital part of the philosophy of Jesus’ two sets of life rights (one for the Ransom which he gave at Calvary, and the other as a reward for keeping the law which he received at his resurrection).
(a) What proof scriptures make such a statement?
(b) How does this concept fit with the “Red Heifer” picture of Numbers 19? Tabernacle Shadows 109-111 says they never wore a yoke–were made free of the Law Covenant. Does this imply that God rewarded them with everlasting life as though they had kept the Law?
Was Jesus under the Law during the 3-1/2 years of His ministry?
In the sixth chapter of “Tabernacle Shadows”, there is considerable discussion of the animal sacrifices to be performed subsequent to the Day of Atonement (Gospel Age) — type and antitype. Since one of the biggest arguments against Ezekiel’s Temple being literal is that there will no longer be animal sacrifices in the Kingdom, please explain where those sacrifices will be offered.
Special business meeting.
Joseph’s dream mentions his mother bowing down (as well as the rest of the family). Who is the mother referred to? Rachel was already dead. Is there symbolic significance or other lessons as well as the practical aspect?
Leviticus 9 uses a different Hebrew word for the sin-offering (young calf) compared to Leviticus 16 (young bullock). Is this significant?
Matt 20:6-7 — When is the eleventh hour and what labor remains in the vineyard?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Matt 20:6-7 — When is the eleventh hour and what labor remains in the vineyard?
Focus to be on the practical aspects of what is the labor.
There are a number of scriptures setting forth the law relating to uncleanness until evening, or for seven days.
(a) When animals were slain for food or for sacrifice, how did the slayer, be he Israelite or Priest, keep from being “unclean”?
(b) Did Jesus ever touch a dead body, that he was told was dead?
Hab 2:3 — After the vision was written on tables, is there a sense in which “at the end it shall [yet] speak”?
Isaiah 53:3 says that Jesus was a “man of sorrows”. Does this mean that he was always of a serious and sober demeanor? Is humor and levity proper for the New Creation?
Exod 12:40 and Gal 3:17 gives a time-bridge from the Abrahamic Covenant to the Exodus. In this period, do we have scriptural evidence for the time or lives between Joseph and Moses?
How do we interpret Isa. 19:1-18, especially considering current events?
Dan 9:1 — Who was this Darius?
In 1 Sam. 15:15,20, all the Amalekites are slain. Later, in 1 Sam. 27:8 & 30:1, the Amalekites are still living. What is the explanation? Where did this second set of Amalekites come from?
Jer 7:34; 16:9; 25:10; Rev 18:23 What is the meaning of “the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride” in these texts?
Samson’s “strength” was in his hair – a covering for him.
Could this “covering” relate to the Great Company, who get their “strength” back at the end?
In 1 Sam. 25:39, When Nabal died, then, David took Abigail to wife.
Could there be a correlation to Satan’s imprisonment and the completion of the bride?
In Psalm 45:1,9,11,13-15 how do we distinguish the various references to “king” as referring to Jesus or Jehovah?
Lev. 9:23 — “And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out, and blessed the people…” In this chapter it says nothing about the blood (or anything else) being taken in with them. Why did Moses and Aaron go into the tabernacle? Did they go into the Most Holy? Did they take anything with them?
Is it possible for someone to come into covenant relationship with God, under a conditional covenant, “automatically” without first agreeing to the terms of that covenant? What scriptural examples do we have?
11-22-2010
MEETING CANCELLED
Concerning the book of Jonah: Why was God interested in Ninevah – a heathen city far from Israel? How far did Jonah have to go to reach a large body of water? Why is this book important?
Was the light recognized as a star in Bethlehem above Jesus Christ birth location from Satan, since it directed the astrologers first to Jerusalem to Herod who wanted to kill Jesus?
Exodus timing:
(a) How much time elapsed from Moses and the burning bush to leaving Egypt on the 14/15th of Abib?
(b) During how many months did the 10 plagues in Egypt take place?
Zech 6:15 — Who are “they that are far [who] shall come and build the temple of the LORD”?
How were Adam and Eve created? Did they just “appear” or was there some process involved in their development?
In 1 Pet. 2:5 the word “spiritual” (before sacrifices) is not found in the Sinaitic manuscript, but is found in virtually every other manuscript. What other scriptures have a bearing on whether the inclusion of this word is correct or not?
Who were the Neanderthals?
Heb. 9:23 seems to imply that heavenly things are purified by the better sacrifices. What are these heavenly things that are purified?
Why does the Great Pyramid serve as a “witness” to God’s plan? In other words, why was an extra-biblical “witness” needed?
Pauls’ admonition in Acts 20:29-30 Mentions “wolves” coming in, and in several Tower articles Brother Russell uses a powerful and interesting illustration: Rabies and Hydrophobia. What are the practical lessons from this symbolic illustration? How can we help someone who is spiritually “infected with rabies”?