I.I.M. 2015 Questions
linked to audio files
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Could we have a general review of why God permits evil?
Eccl. 11:4 “He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.”
What is the meaning of this verse? Is this a warning for the Brethren now? If so, in what way?
Could we have a general review of why God permits evil?
In what ways may we apply Ecclesiastes 5:1,2 at our meeting places, association with our brethren and in our daily lives?
Gal. 3:13,14 How does the removal of the “curse of the law” affect the Gospel coming to the Gentiles?
Acts 9:26-42 We say that Divine healings were not used on consecrated Christians. Is Dorcas an exception?
Was Jesus begotten more than once?
In the week of January 4, 2015 terrorists in Paris killed journalists at the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. The next issue of the magazine had on it’s cover “All is Forgiven”. Is that taking forgiveness too far? What are the proper Scriptural guidelines for forgiveness in such a situation? Does Israel issue a statement of forgiveness to terrorists?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
In the week of January 4, 2015 terrorists in Paris killed journalists at the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. The next issue of the magazine had on it’s cover “All is Forgiven”. Is that taking forgiveness too far? What are the proper Scriptural guidelines for forgiveness in such a situation? Does Israel issue a statement of forgiveness to terrorists?
Regarding Wisdom:
(a) What is it?
(b) How can it be acquired?
(c) Has there always been an interest to get wisdom since Adam and Eve?
(d) What are the Books of Wisdom and why are they called so?
(e) What is Israel’s Wisdom Movement?
FINISH DISCUSSION ON:
Regarding Wisdom:
(a) What is it?
(b) How can it be acquired?
(c) Has there always been an interest to get wisdom since Adam and Eve?
(d) What are the Books of Wisdom and why are they called so?
(e) What is Israel’s Wisdom Movement?
Is there a particular significance in the use of the word sin (singular) in John 1:29 and Heb. 9:26 and/versus sins (plural) in Gal. 1:4 and 1 John 2:2?
Regarding the Spirit of a Sound Mind:
(a) Define and explain what is meant by the Spirit of a Sound Mind, which is stated in 2 Timothy 1:7.
(b) How do we acquire this Spirit of a Sound Mind, and why do we need it?
(c) How do we know if we have this Spirit of a Sound Mind?
What does the Bible say about itself?
With regard to our usual understanding of the “stars of heaven” referring to the spiritual seed how do we understand scriptures which appear to apply “stars of heaven” to Natural Israel as in Exod. 32:13, Deut. 1:10, 10:22, 28:62; Neh. 9:23?
R3445 – How is it possible for the Ancient Worthies to be raised before the Great Company are all dead?
Will the Bible be used in the peaceable kingdom?
John 4:5 – When did Jacob give the parcel of ground mentioned here to Joseph?
We often quote “life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth…” (Exod. 21:23,24; Deut. 19:21) How do we explain the punishment of death for other than a death – not a “life for life” (Exod. 19:12; 21:16, 17; 22:19; 31:14, 15 and several more times in the Old Testament.)
Under what circumstances should a consecrated individual NOT participate at the Memorial? Is there an antitype to “touching a dead body” as in the Law?
Is there significance to the fact that God promised and blessed Ishmael with twelve sons? Gen. 17:20; Gen. 25:13-15; 1 Chron. 1:28-31
As doctrinal and prophetic understanding began to unfold during the 19th century most Christian writers taught that Islam is prominently represented in certain prophecies and would become a significant player in the time of trouble. Not long after Brother Russell’s death radical Islam had re-emerged, following decades of dormancy, to become one of the greatest threats to modern civilization. Do any of our prophetic interpretations need to be re-evaluated in light of this development?
F466 Regarding the Memorial: “We are not putting the symbols instead of the reality…” Aside from what Papacy has done, are there ways this warning might be applicable to us? Are there subtle ways we might over-emphasize the symbols?
Moses Father-in-law made the suggestion to delegate to 70 elders.
(1) Was this before or after the Tabernacle was built?
(2) How do we harmonize Exod. 18:13-27 (before the Tabernacle was built) with Numbers 11:14-17,24-25 (after the Tabernacle was built)?
Why is the Hebrew word “temple” [Strong’s H1964] used in 1 Sam. 1:9; 3:3 and 2 Sam. 22:7 when talking about the Tabernacle? It is the same Hebrew word used elsewhere for Solomon’s Temple.
The Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15) decided on four “necessary things” to be observed by Gentile believers.
a) Are these four things still requirements for us today? If so, in what way?
b) Paul seemed to agree to these points but in 1 Cor. 8 he says that eating meat offered to idols was permissible. Is this a contradiction?
Could we have an overview of the Great Pyramid? Please include the following points:
a. What is indicated by the progress toward the King’s Chamber? Is it significant that the material changes from limestone to granite? Walking toward what?
b. Is the position of the Anti-Chamber before the King’s Chamber significant? What about the “wainscoting” and the “columns”?
c. How does the Granite Coffer correspond to the Ark of the Covenent?
d. The Great Pryamid was opened to the public in 1850 A. D., does that mean anything?
e. What other important lessons can we learn from the Great Pyramid?
CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK:
Could we have an overview of the Great Pyramid? Please include the following points:
1 What is indicated by the progress toward the King’s Chamber? Is it significant that the material changes from limestone to granite? Walking toward what?
2 Is the position of the Anti-Chamber before the King’s Chamber significant? What about the “wainscoting” and the “columns”?
3 How does the Granite Coffer correspond to the Ark of the Covenent?
4 The Great Pryamid was opened to the public in 1850 A. D., does that mean anything?
5 What other important lessons can we learn from the Great Pyramid?
Do the Scriptures give any indication as to when the Church shall appear in the literal presence of God?
One of the World’s largest and most prominent map-makers (HarperCollins) recently published a Middle East map that excludes Israel, but “the West Bank” is clearly shown.
Is there any prophetic or other significance to this kind of action?
Why did Jesus tell the Apostles to say “Our Father” when they were not yet begotten of the Spirit?
What can we learn about who may pray and what we may pray for from Eliezer’s prayer in Gen 24:12-14 and the prayer in the temple by a “stranger” in 2 Chron 6:32,33?
Starting on page 277 of Volume 3 Brother Russell goes into detail about the “Kischinev Movement.” Based on the Parallels he thought this was an early indication of blindness being removed from Israel. Considering Brother Russell’s corrected focus on the Parallels, that they follow “the nominal house to destruction”, is the Kischinev Movement significant?
What is the link between joy and suffering? (Manna May 10)
Col. 1:15,18 – firstborn or created?
In Hymn 64 verse 4 it says “Smite death’s threatening wave before you;” What does this mean?
R5839 – What lessons can we learn from the incident recorded in Acts 4:1-31 regarding:
(a) Peter and John’s method of preaching to the Jews?
(b) Their courage before the Sanhedrin?
(c) Their attitude reflected in verse 19 compared to 2 Cor. 4:5?
(d) Harmony with texts like Rom. 13:1-7 and 1 Pet. 2:13-17?
(e) Other lessons?
CONTINUE DISCUSSION:
R5839 – What lessons can we learn from the incident recorded in Acts 4:1-31 regarding:
(a) Peter and John’s method of preaching to the Jews?
(b) Their courage before the Sanhedrin?
(c) Their attitude reflected in verse 19 compared to 2 Cor. 4:5?
(d) Harmony with texts like Rom. 13:1-7 and 1 Pet. 2:13-17?
(e) Other lessons?
The Apostle Paul often opened his epistles with “Grace and peace be unto you.” What do each of those mean?
Compared to years past, are there evidences that “the water is getting into the ship” (worldly influences) amongst Bible Students? If so, what can we do about it?
We often use the phrase “step of grace, step of knowledge.” Is that a scriptural thought? What does it mean? How do we know if we’re off balance?
Samson was under the Nazarite Vow. One of the conditions was not to touch a dead body. How was that possible when he killed so many in battle? And what about the honey from the carcase of the dead lion? Yet God only took his strength from Samson when his hair was cut.
In Matthew 13:44 what is the field, and what is the treasure? And by comparison, in Matthew 13:45-46 what is the pearl? How do these two parables differ?
Could we have a review of why we believe of all the world religions Christianity is the correct one and why we believe the Bible is inspired?
The Scriptures say that all Adam’s descendents were born “under sin”. Does this mean that after Adam sinned the human race lost its free will to choose?
“Jesus Christ brought life and immortality to light…” What or who is the Good News about? And which is more important – The New Creation or the Resurrection?
Some Brethren have made statements over the years such as: “If for some reason I end up on a paradise Earth, I will be completely satisfied with whatever the Lord gives me.” Is this a proper viewpoint? How does this fit in with “the One Hope” of our calling?
In comparing 1 Cor. 2 verse 10 with verse 9 may we discuss what is revealed to us?
Is there a scripture that has all four (or even three of four) of God’s attributes in it?
Who or what is referred to in the expression “THE GREAT COURT” mentioned in Volume 4, pages D75, D113, D157?
In Jer. 50:29 “call together the archers” is there prophetic application to our day? Who are the archers against Babylon? Do we bend the (symbolic) bow?
How can we answer someone who asks: “There are a lot of Christian Churches. Why do you believe that you have the truth?”
In John 10:1-5 Jesus speaks of some endeavoring to enter his sheep-fold “some other way.” Would the thought that the New Creation is under a Mediator and subject to the New Covenant be an example of this? What are other examples?
What is the Holy Remnant? What do the Scriptures say about their future role? When and where will they perform this role?
What are some of the outward evidences of the binding of Satan?
What are some of the brethren’s favorite or amazing aspects of the increase of knowledge?
Since all the animals died in the various plagues, where did Pharaoh get the horses to pull the chariots that perished in the Red Sea?
In regard to the prophetic context of John 13:16-32, did Jesus indicate consent in the sending of Judas out from the supper? Did it affect Judas’ free choice, or of feeling approved?
How do we answer someone, with Scriptures, who says that we preach a “second chance” for non-Christians in the resurrection?
What did Brother Russell have in mind when suggesting we use the Thursday Manna text as a basis for the following Wednesday Testimony meeting? [R4886:page 366 RE MANNA TEXTS FOR TOPICS]
In Genesis 39:17-20 Joseph is falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife. Shouldn’t he have defended himself? When we are falsely accused or misunderstood shouldn’t we speak up?
Will the Ancient Worthies be able to see angelic hosts in the Kingdom, as demonstrated in 2 Kings 6:17?
What are possible implications from the massive migration of Muslim refugees into Europe?
FROM THE ARCHIVES:
“Doing good unto all men…” (Gal. 6:10)
(a) Some say we should only help Brethren, and to help the world is a waste of time.
(b) Some say we need to do more to help the world, like building orphanages, or such.
What is the balance? What are examples of what we may and should not do?
Exodus 14:14 “The Lord will fight for you while you keep silent.” (NAS) Is there an antitypical significance? If so, to whom would it apply, when, where and how? What other Scriptures might apply?
Seeking harmony of Gen. 17:1,17,24; 21:5, and Rom. 4:19. Is there any validation or importance for Abraham’s and Sarah’s age difference to be 10 instead of 9?
What is the practical difference between the first and second commandments? What is the difference between worshipping another God and worshipping an idol?
Did the Apostle Paul “ask amiss” in 2 Cor. 12:8, since he “received not”? [James 4:3]
With whom is the New Covenant made / inaugurated? What is the role of the Ancient Worthies? What is the Scriptural basis for any answers?
FINISH DISCUSSION:
With whom is the New Covenant made / inaugurated? What is the role of the Ancient Worthies? What is the Scriptural basis for any answers?
What are the most important subjects for us to be studying now and why? (Personal and/or Ecclesia study.)
What should our priorities be in personal study: Ranking in relative importance the Bible, the Volumes, the Reprints and other writings?
When does Daniel 12:1-4 apply? Is the “time of trouble” referred to: (a) the trouble since 1914; (b) the worst part of the trouble; or (c) both?
Chapter 28 of Deuteronomy details the Lord’s blessing or punishment of Israel depending on whether they follow the law or not.
(a) Have these all been fulfilled, and if not, will they be?
(b) Was this feature of the Law only for that point in time or at any time?
(c) Is this portion of the Law a picture of something applicable to us?
What does “according to the proportion of faith” mean in Romans 12:6? Is Paul saying according to the talents one possesses?
Any thoughts on Obama’s Nuclear deal with Iran and the cooperation between Russia, Syria and Iran?
In Genesis 6:4 it refers to the nephilim that lived at the time of the flood. We read: “The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward…” Question: What does it mean – “and also afterward”?
Romans 16:20 “And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.”
(a) When does this verse apply?
(b) Is Paul quoting from Genesis 3:15?
(c) Does this verse refer to the final destruction of Satan?
Will the Little Flock be part of the “Second Adam”?
The phrase “Angel of the LORD” (Jehovah) occurs 52 times in the Old Testament (KJV). It is always in the singular. [The phrase “angels of God” is different.]
a) Is this a special title?
b) The name of the angel is given in Judges 13:18. Does this have special meaning?
c) Are the incidents where this “Angel of the LORD” appears significant?
1. Why does the Church need to share in the sin-offering?
2. What does the Church add to the sin-offering that is of any value?
Regarding online meetings:
1. What do you think about online conventions?
2. Do you believe there will be more online conventions and fewer local conventions in the future?
3. Do you prefer online classes with attendees using their vidcams or without vidcams?
4. How does Heb. 10:24,25 fit into the framework of online meetings?
5. Other thoughts on online meetings?
Psalms 2:2-3 – Who are the kings of the earth? What are the bands and cords? What are evidences of the prophecy?
What is the meaning of the phrase “a man shall be more precious than the golden wedge of Ophir”? (Isaiah 13:12)
When was Satan cast out of heaven? How do we explain Revelation 12 in this context?
Date of the Abrahamic Covenant:
1.) B44-B45 – In placing a date for the Covenant with Abraham, what evidences are there that Abraham was 75 at the death of Terah and that the covenant was made that year?
2.) Exodus 12:40-41 – Does this indicate that the Covenant with Abraham was made at the same date as the Exodus Passover? Is there any indication of how Moses might have known that day in Abraham’s life before the institution of the Passover?