Inanis_Vault/20-Knowledge/Spiritual Notes/Pure Worship Convention 2025.md

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Friday Morning

Working - Stream Broke

Messianic Prophecy Fulfilled!—Part I

Acknowledged by God

2 Cor 1:20 - 20 For no matter how many the promises of God are, they have become “yes” by means of him. Therefore, also through him is the “Amen” said to God, which brings him glory through us.

Every promise of God is fulfilled in Jesus.

Psalm 2:7 - 7 Let me proclaim the decree of Jehovah; He said to me: “You are my son; Today I have become your father.

Original prophecy of Jehovah identifying that Jesus was his son.

Matt 3:16,17 -After being baptized, Jesus immediately came up from the water; and look! the heavens were opened up, and he saw God’s spirit descending like a dove and coming upon him. 17 Look! Also, a voice from the heavens said: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.”

Fulfillment of that prophecy. Why special? Jehovah used his own voice to show his approval. Not like we hear that when we get baptized.

Jehovah also declared him his son, along with an outpouring of Holy Spirit.

The heavens were also opened up. This is when Jehovah let Jesus understand heavenly matters, including his prehuman existence, and the scope of his work to be done.

Jesus went into the wilderness for 40 days after this to figure things out.

Acts 13:33,34 - God has completely fulfilled it to us, their children, by resurrecting Jesus; just as it is written in the second psalm: ‘You are my son; today I have become your father.’ 34 And the fact that He resurrected him from the dead never again to return to corruption, He has stated in this way: ‘I will give you the expressions of loyal love promised to David, which are faithful.’

Another expression of Jehovah's approval, turning Jesus back into a spirit creature, never to die or become human again.

John 1:33-34 - John also bore witness, saying: “I viewed the spirit coming down as a dove out of heaven, and it remained upon him. 33 Even I did not know him, but the very One who sent me to baptize in water said to me: ‘Whoever it is upon whom you see the spirit coming down and remaining, this is the one who baptizes in holy spirit.’ 34 And I have seen it, and I have given witness that this one is the Son of God

John's perspective

Jesus resurrection was also special, because he was resurrected to a spirit body, never to die again. Other resurrections did happen, but they died again.

Descended From King David

2 Sam 7:12,13 - When your days come to an end and you are laid to rest with your forefathers, then I will raise up your offspring after you, your own son, and I will firmly establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my name, and I will firmly establish the throne of his kingdom forever

Original prophecy showing that Jehovah would firmly establish the kingdom of David's son forever. The king had to come from David's line.

Genesis 22:18 - 18 And by means of your offspring all nations of the earth will obtain a blessing for themselves because you have listened to my voice.’”

Another prophecy stating that that kingdom would come from Aberham

Matt 1:1,2, 6 - 1The book of the history of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham:2Abraham became father to Isaac; Isaac became father to Jacob; Jacob became father to Judah and his brothers; 6Jesʹse became father to David the king. David became father to Solʹo·mon by the wife of U·riʹah;

Fulfillment of the prophecy. Both Luke and Matthew traced the lineage through Jesus blood, and also birthright.

Jesus lineage was traced back for 40 generations. ~2000 years. And for all of it, it is undisputed. Documents exist to prove it, even his opposition didn't question it.

Anointed as “Messiah the Leader”

Daniel 9:25 - 25You should know and understand that from the issuing of the word to restore and to rebuild Jerusalem until Mes·siʹah the Leader, there will be 7 weeks, also 62 weeks. She will be restored and rebuilt, with a public square and moat, but in times of distress.

Initial Prophecy. Pointed toward the anointing of Jesus.

• When did this period start?

  started when the official decree going out to go and rebuild Jerusalem. Started at 455BCE.

• How long did this period take?

  7 weeks, plus 62 weeks. 69 weeks total. Not a literal passing of time. 483 days total.

  Using the "Day for a year" scripture, 483 years after 455BCE, is 29CE

• When did it end?

  Luke 3:1,2 - 3In the 15th year of the reign of Ti·beʹri·us Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Ju·deʹa, Herod was district ruler of Galʹi·lee, Philip his brother was district ruler of the country of It·u·raeʹa and Trach·o·niʹtis, and Ly·saʹni·as was district ruler of Ab·i·leʹne,2in the days of chief priest Anʹnas and of Caʹia·phas, God’s declaration came to John the son of Zech·a·riʹah in the wilderness.

  Reign of Tiberius Ceaser fell between 28 and 29CE

  Luke 1:21-23 - 21Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus too was baptized. As he was praying, the heaven was opened up,22and the holy spirit in bodily form like a dove came down upon him, and a voice came out of heaven: “You are my Son, the beloved; I have approved you.”23When Jesus began his work, he was about 30 years old, being the son, as the opinion was, of Joseph, son of Heʹli

  Jesus began his ministry at 30 years old.

  Ok look I don't know how we got here, but it's 29CE is the time Jesus ministry started, fulfilling the prophecy.

Tl;Dr the fulfillment was when Jesus came in 29CE, after being revealed to Daniel almost 500 years earlier.

Who Really Rules the World?

The deeper we get into this system of things, the more devisive things are going to get

Luke 4:5-8 - 5So he brought him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the inhabited earth in an instant of time.6Then the Devil said to him: “I will give you all this authority and their glory, because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.7If you, therefore, do an act of worship before me, it will all be yours.”8In reply Jesus said to him: “It is written, ‘It is Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service.’”

Jesus did not dispute that Satan had this authority. That this world is ruled by Satan.

We want no part of this world, as its in direct control of Satan.

• How does Satan use his authority?

  Ephesians 2:1,2 - Furthermore, God made you alive, though you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you at one time walked according to the system of things of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience

  Satan is called the ruler of the authority of the air. Satan doesn't have a direct impact on what we do and say. Instead, he's created an environment in which there is a uninhibited and encouraged outlook toward sinful tendencies. His rulership is not characterized by visible domain, but by the shaping of hearts and minds in opposition to Jehovah's standards.

  Also promotes an extreme spirit of independence.

  We can not escape this air, it surrounds us, but we have a strong desire to not take part in it because we want to render to Jehovah pure worship.

• How does Satan use governments?

  Human leaders also aren't directly controlled by Satan, but are still affected by the air he puts out.

  How should we view governments?

  Romans 13:1 - Let every person be in subjection to the superior authorities, for there is no authority except by God

  These governments are in place because Jehovah allows them to exist. We as true Christians will still pay taxes, follow laws, and treat them with respect.

  Lack of respect and following of laws is a spot of the world.

  Mark 12: 17 - 17Jesus then said: “Pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar, but God’s things to God.” And they were amazed at him.

  When governments ask of something from us, we need to decide if it's something they can rightfully ask for, or if it's something that Jehovah asks for. Our worship and devotion only belong to Jehovah.

  John 18:36 - 36Jesus answered: “My Kingdom is no part of this world. If my Kingdom were part of this world, my attendants would have fought that I should not be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my Kingdom is not from this source.”

  God's kingdom is no part of the world. It has nothing to do with human rulership.

Friday Afternoon

Working

Saturday Morning

"What Are You Looking For?”

Recap of yesterday

FEATURED BIBLE DRAMA

Imitate Those Who Loved Pure Worship!

John The Baptist

John lived a life of self sacrifice

Matt 3:1-4 - John lived and ate in the wilderness

Matt 11:9,10 - 9Really, then, why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and far more than a prophet.10This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Look! I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way ahead of you!’

John prepared the way of the people to prepare the hearts of people to accept the messiah.

John had his own diciples, but directed them to Jesus. He led a life of self sacrifice in everything.

John was firm against wrong conduct, and spoke out against Herod, which eventually ende up gettiing him killed.

How can we imitate John?

1. We can analyze our attitude

   • Are we willing to give of our time and resources to our brothers and sisters, or anything else that we can use in service to Jehovah?

2. If weak, what can we do?

   • Prayer to Jehovah is the first step.

   • Imitate John in calling out wrong conduct, and preaching the good news. This may involve persecution, imprisonment, or even death.

Andrew

Andrew immediately responded to finding Jesus, because of his love for Pure Worship

Matt 4:18-20 - Walking alongside the Sea of Galʹi·lee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them: “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 At once they abandoned their nets and followed him

At once they abandoned their nets, without a second thought, and not looking back. When Jesus invited them to follow him, they had already been following him for 6months to a year, so they had time to build faith in, and see a few miracles to strengthen his faith in Jesus and Pure Worship.

How can we imitate Andrew?

1. Get baptized

2. Expand our Ministry

3. Return to the truth

Peter

John 6:56,66 - 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood remains in union with me, and I in union with him. 66 Because of this, many of his disciples went off to the things behind and would no longer walk with him.

Many of Jesus disciples didn't understand and left him when he said somethiing they didn't like.

John 6:68, 69 - 68 Simon Peter answered him: “Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life. 69 We have believed and have come to know that you are the Holy One of God.”

Peters love of pure worship was greater then his fear of the unknown

Peter also had endurance and loyalty. He followed Jesus into the place where he was put on trial, even though it meant risking his life.

How can we imitate Peter?

1. Put faith in Jehovah's Represenative, which is currently the Faithful and Descreet slave.

2. Continue to persevere even despite our imperfections

Psalms 103:13 - 13 As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those who fear him.

See ourselves as Jehovah sees us

John

Matt 20:20,21 - 20Then the mother of the sons of Zebʹe·dee approached him with her sons, doing obeisance and asking for something from him.21He said to her: “What do you want?” She replied to him: “Give the word that these two sons of mine may sit down, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your Kingdom.”

While certainly an ambition request, it showed that the three had absolute confidence that God's kingdom was real and the answer

They were also influenced by the cultual traits of those around them, and that was not good.

If we put kingdom interets first

Matt 6:33 - 33 “Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.

Eph 3:20 - 20 Now to the one who can, according to his power that is operating in us, do more than superabundantly beyond all the things we ask or conceive,

If anybody ever says anything in opposition to this, Ask there what their scripirutal basis is, and refute it with the above.

James

Jesus him and his brother the surname "Sons of Thunder", as they had fiery zeal for pure worship. They wanted to call down fire on the people who didn't greet them like they thought they should.

Mark 3:17 - 17James the son of Zebʹe·dee and John the brother of James (he also gave these the name Bo·a·nerʹges, which means “Sons of Thunder”),

How can we imitate James?

1. Be zealous and show firey zeal in the ministry

   • Motivated by love of Jehovah, love of neighbor, and something else

2. Do as much as our circumstances allow

   • Frequently reevaluate our circumstance to see how much further we can expand our ministry.

3. Not be lukewarm when it comes to our worship

   • Don't be half hearted, indifferent, or bored with pure worship.

Phillip

John 1:43 - 43The next day he wanted to leave for Galʹi·lee. Jesus then found Philip and said to him: “Be my follower.”

Phillip promptly accepted Jesus invitation. He went to tell his friend Nathaniel who initially had a negative reaction, but he insisted, and made Nathaniel follow him to see.

Phillip loved pure worship from the heart that was developed before he met Jesus, and his following and insistance on following Jesus was evidence of that.

How can we imitate Phillips response to Nathaniel? People today may have the same attitude "How can anything good come out of religion?", we need to show loving persistance, and not give up on them.

When people object to our message, we can also imitate Phillip and give a loving and mild response.

Col 4:6 - 6 Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should answer each person.

Nathanael

Initially had a negative response to the announcement of Jesus. Nathanael then investegated the matter, and found out for himself.

John 1:47 - 47Jesus saw Na·thanʹa·el coming toward him and said about him: “See, truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.”

How to imitate Nathaneal?

1 Peter 2:1 - So rid yourselves of all badness and deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all backbiting

Jesus saw no deciet in Nathaneal, which also meant there was no hypocrisy.

BAPTISM: The Meaning of Your Baptism

1 Peter 3:21 - 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, is also now saving you (not by the removing of the filth of the flesh, but by the request to God for a good conscience), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Baptism is now saving us as humans. It is a requirement for salvation. It represents a personal appeal to Jehovah for a good conscince and a clean standing before him.

Baptism Into Moses

1 Cor 10:1,2 - Now I want you to know, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea 2 and all got baptized into Moses by means of the cloud and of the sea

The Isrealites passed through the red sea. They didn't have time to consider if it was a good choice or not, they had faith and took action, putting their trust in Moses as Jehovah's appointed leader, and in Jehovah's power.

Baptism by John

Luke 1:16,17 - and he will turn back many of the sons of Israel to Jehovah their God. 17 Also, he will go ahead of him with E·liʹjah’s spirit and power, to turn back the hearts of fathers to children and the disobedient ones to the practical wisdom of righteous ones, in order to get ready for Jehovah a prepared people.”

Johns assignment was to prepare the peoples hearts for the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.

Baptism of Jesus

Jesus basptism wasn't a repentance of sins, it wasn't a sudden interest in spiritual things. It was an outward sign of dedication to Jehovah, to do whatever Jehovah asked of him.

And what did Jehovah did ask of Jesus? Everything. Preaching assignement, suffering, and ultimatley his death. All of which Jesus fulfilled perfectly, and left a model for us to follow his steps closely.

We are imperfect humans, but we can imitate Jesus attitutde, his willingness, and his faith.

Saturday Afternoon

Applying the Lessons From Jesus’ First Miracle

Show Compassion

1 John 3:17 - But whoever has the material possessions of this world and sees his brother in need and yet refuses to show him compassion, in what way does the love of God remain in him?

We both have the obligation and priveledge of showing others compassion.

Jesus showed compassion on his first miracle when he turned water into wine. He was not obligated to do it, but he felt compassion for the couple who ran out of wine, and his heart moved him to do something about it.

Galation 6:10 - So, then, as long as we have the opportunity, let us work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith.

Cultivate Humility

Humility is defined as the lolienss of mind, and the abscence of pride.

Phillipians 2:3 - Do nothing out of contentiousness or out of egotism, but with humility consider others superior to you, 4 as you look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.

1 Peter 5:5 - In the same way, you younger men, be in subjection to the older men. But all of you clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones.

We certainly want Jehovah's undesrved kindness, so we have to work at and cultivate the quality of Humilty.

When Jesus turned the water into wine, he didn't tell everyone he did it himself, but had the servants distribute it and serve it, so that only those who actually saw him do the miracles knew what he did.

Matt 6:1-4 - Take care not to practice your righteousness in front of men to be noticed by them; otherwise you will have no reward with your Father who is in the heavens. 2 So when you make gifts of mercy, do not blow a trumpet ahead of you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be glorified by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. 3 But you, when making gifts of mercy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your gifts of mercy may be in secret. Then your Father who looks on in secret will repay you.

Be Generous

Being generous is an expression of love.

Duet 15:7,8 - “If one of your brothers becomes poor among you in one of your cities of the land that Jehovah your God is giving you, do not harden your heart or be tightfisted toward your poor brother.8For you should generously open your hand to him and by all means lend whatever he needs or is lacking.

Luke 6:38 - Practice giving, and people will give to you. They will pour into your laps a fine measure, pressed down, shaken together, and overflowing. For with the measure that you are measuring out, they will measure out to you in return.”

Jesus was not obligated to help with the wine, he was just a guest, but he wanted to, and was very generous with the wine he gave them.

How "The Lamb of God" Takes Away Sin

Romans 3:23 - 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

Romans 5:12 - 12 That is why, just as through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because they had all sinned—.

Humans are all imperfect, and all sin.

Romans 7:19 - 19 For I do not do the good that I wish, but the bad that I do not wish is what I practice.

Even though we want to do whats good, we often don't quite make the mark.

1 John 4:The love is in this respect, not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins

John 3: 14,16 - 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so the Son of man must be lifted up, 16 “For God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.

The snake was held up so everyone staring at it would be saved. Same as Jesus, so that everyone looking at, or putting faith in Jesus, would also be saved, and have everlasting life.

Romans 4:7,8 - 7 “Happy are those whose lawless deeds have been pardoned and whose sins have been covered; 8 happy is the man whose sin Jehovah will by no means take into account.”

Jehovah is the one who pardons and covers sins. He wants us to be happy, because he loves us as his people.

Romans 6: 23 - 23 For the wages sin pays is death, but the gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord.

Good fathers give gifts to their children, and the gift that Jehovah wants to give us is everlasting life, the same gift he tried to give Adam and Eve.

Messianic Prophecy Fulfilled!​—Part II

Consumed With Zeal for Jehovah's House

Psalms 69:9 - 9Zeal for your house has consumed me, And the reproaches of those reproaching you have fallen upon me.

Original Prophecy

John 2:13-17 - Now the Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.14He found in the temple those selling cattle and sheep and doves, and the money brokers in their seats.15So after making a whip of ropes, he drove all those with the sheep and cattle out of the temple, and he poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.16And he said to those selling the doves: “Take these things away from here! Stop making the house of my Father a house of commerce!”17His disciples recalled that it is written: “The zeal for your house will consume me.”

Fulfillment of said prophecy

Declared Good News to the Meek

Isaiah 61:1,2 - The spirit of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah is upon me, Because Jehovah anointed me to declare good news to the meek. He sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And the wide opening of the eyes to the prisoners,2To proclaim the year of Jehovah’s goodwill And the day of vengeance of our God, To comfort all who mourn,

Original Prophecy

Jesus fulfilled this prophecy by doing all these things.

People put their own ideas on what Jesus said. They thought Jesus would save them from Rome, but that was not the case. Jesus had a much greater fulfillment, but it wasn't coming in their lifetime.

Shone "a Great Light" in Galilee

Isaiah 9:1,2 - 9However, the gloom will not be as when the land had distress, as in former times when the land of Zebʹu·lun and the land of Naphʹta·li were treated with contempt. But at a later time He will cause it to be honored—the way by the sea, in the region of the Jordan, Galʹi·lee of the nations.2The people who were walking in the darkness Have seen a great light. As for those dwelling in the land of deep shadow, Light has shone on them.

Original Prophecy

Matt 4:16,17 - The people sitting in darkness saw a great light, and as for those sitting in a region of deathly shadow, light rose on them.” 17 From that time on, Jesus began preaching and saying: “Repent, for the Kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.”

They were sitting in spiritual darkness, and Jesus proved to be a bright light for them, teaching them and showing them the proper way

"Take These Things Away From Here!"

John 2:13-16 - 13Now the Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.14He found in the temple those selling cattle and sheep and doves, and the money brokers in their seats.15So after making a whip of ropes, he drove all those with the sheep and cattle out of the temple, and he poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.16And he said to those selling the doves: “Take these things away from here! Stop making the house of my Father a house of commerce!”

Buying and selling of animals was legal, so what was the problem?

The motive was greed, and the sellers were charging unfair prices.

They were also conducting commerce right on the temple grounds

Isiaiah 27:2 - In that day sing to her: “A vineyard of foaming wine! 3 I, Jehovah, am safeguarding her. Every moment I water her. I safeguard her night and day, So that no one may harm her.

This is Jehovah, talking about his people. We are so fruitful and productive, becaue of the care Jehovah gives us.

Isaiah 27:4 - 4 There is no wrath in me. Who will confront me with thornbushes and weeds in the battle? I will trample them and set them on fire all together.

Jehovah does not have wrath for his people, but instead will confront any corrupting influence and destroy it completley.

Often, the corrupting influence and contamination have very little to do with the activity it centers around.

Eph 5:5 - Let sexual immorality and every sort of uncleanness or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as is proper for holy people; 4 neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting—things that are not befitting—but rather the giving of thanks. 5 For you know this, recognizing it for yourselves, that no sexually immoral person or unclean person or greedy person, which means being an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of the Christ and of God.

Even if some activity is good, the motivation behind it is what counts.

Heb 13:18 - Keep praying for us, for we trust we have an honest conscience, as we wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things.

In all our dealings and filling out applications and forms, spiritual or not, we must be honest in all things.

Luke 12:15 - 15 Then he said to them: “Keep your eyes open and guard against every sort of greed, because even when a person has an abundance, his life does not result from the things he possesses.”

Working in itself is not wrong, and is encouraged, but greed can conaminate our pure worship.

"I Will Raise It Up"

John 2:18-22 - Therefore, in response the Jews said to him: “What sign can you show us, since you are doing these things?”19Jesus replied to them: “Tear down this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”20The Jews then said: “This temple was built in 46 years, and will you raise it up in three days?”21But he was talking about the temple of his body.22When, though, he was raised up from the dead, his disciples recalled that he used to say this, and they believed the scripture and what Jesus had spoken.

• What did Jesus mean by what he said?

  Jesus was not referring to the literal temple in Jerusalem. He was referring to the temple of his body.

  We know this, because it literally says it in vs 21

  Matt 29:61 - 61 and said: “This man said, ‘I am able to throw down the temple of God and build it up in three days.’”

  The Jews misunderstood, and misquoted him.

  • What did Jesus mean when said "I will raise it up?"

    Matt 9:19-22 - Then Jesus got up and, with his disciples, followed him. 20 And look! a woman suffering for 12 years from a flow of blood approached from behind and touched the fringe of his outer garment, 21 for she kept saying to herself: “If I only touch his outer garment, I will get well.” 22 Jesus turned around and, noticing her, said: “Take courage, daughter! Your faith has made you well.” And from that hour the woman was made well.

    Jesus said "Your Faith" has made you well. He also used this line in Mark 10:52, and Luke ?:19. Jesus knew that these humans didnt heal themselves, but he was in turn dignifying them, as he was publicly acknowlding that their faith played a role in them being healed. He was applying this same thought to himself. He was referring to his own integrety, and the role he would play in having that. The entire human race's future depended on his actions, and him not sinning.

• Why did Jesus say and act what he did on that occasions?

  Many didn't understand, so why say it?

  Jesus loved righteousness, and hated wickedness. Many of those in authority at that time, were the ones that were profiting from the commerce and corruption at the temple, which Jesus had just thrown out, interupting their income.

  The leaders that asked him for a miracle were not looking for truth, they were already a corrupt and greedy people. Performing a miracle would of done nothing. The power that Jesus has was to help bring Honor and Glory to Jehovah's name, and that would not have done that.

  Acts 6:7 - 7 Consequently, the word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples kept multiplying very much in Jerusalem; and a large crowd of priests began to be obedient to the faith.

  Later, a large crowd of priests began to be obedient to the faith. Some of them may have been the same priests that were there to see when Jesus cleared the temple, and hear his reply.

• How we can support Jesus in supporing pure worship today?

  We must share Jesus, our masters views on what is right, and what is wrong, and take decisive, possibly extreme action to support that.

  In modern day, we are surrounded by just the opposite view. We have to constantly fight against that, but with tact and respect.

Sunday Morning

Lessons from What Jesus Said

Born from Water and Spirit

John 3:3,5 - In response Jesus said to him: “Most truly I say to you, unless anyone is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” 5Jesus answered: “Most truly I say to you, unless anyone is born from water and spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.

To be born, means to be given a new beginning, or a new start. The start of a new life.

Hope serves an an anchor.

No Man Has Ascended Into Heaven

John 3:13 - 13Moreover, no man has ascended into heaven but the one who descended from heaven, the Son of man.

Jesus was saying he was the first one that was going to be ressurected to heaven. There was no man before him that had ever ascended to heaven.

To deal with Sensetive topics:

Col 4:6 - 6 Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should answer each person.

• Be Kind and tactful. Our words need to be gracious, andwell seasons, to be well recieved

  • Wherever possible, we want to try to commend the other person. Sincerely

    • Try to find some common ground

    • Avoid being argumenative

• Explain our beliefs using simple statements and clear reasoning.

  • Make a list of common topics and prepare for them ahead of time

    • Practice Sessions

Come to the Light

John 3:19-21 - 19Now this is the basis for judgment: that the light has come into the world, but men have loved the darkness rather than the light, for their works were wicked.20For whoever practices vile things hates the light and does not come to the light, so that his works may not be reproved.21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that his works may be made manifest as having been done in harmony with God.”

Jesus wanted people to follow him openly, not in secret. It is not enough to just know the truth, we need to live in harmony with it.

James 1:22,25 - 22 However, become doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves with false reasoning. 25 But the one who peers into the perfect law that belongs to freedom and continues in it has become, not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work; and he will be happy in what he does.

We want to be sure to express our appreciation for the love Jehovah has already shown us, and be sure to mention it in our prayers.

If our love for Jehovah is stronger then anything else, nothing will be able to prevent us from worshipping him.

I Am He

John 4:25,26 - 25The woman said to him: “I know that Mes·siʹah is coming, who is called Christ. Whenever that one comes, he will declare all things to us openly.”26Jesus said to her: “I am he, the one speaking to you.”

This is the first time Jesus revealed himself as the Messiah. He revealed it to a woman, and a samirtan at that, completley subverting the cultural customs of the people of that time.

How jesus treated women:

• Reject any influence that discredit or demean woman, or are in any way inferior to men.

  • Eph 4:22 - 22 You were taught to put away the old personality that conforms to your former course of conduct and that is being corrupted according to its deceptive desires.

• Look for ways to encourage sisters in the congregation

  • Help them feel valued

  • Regularly express appreciation for their hard work.

  • Talk to them in the hall, work with them in service

• Husbands, imitate Jesus loving headship

  • Husbands should love their wife as Jesus loved the congregation

  • Husbands should put their wives needs and interestes ahead of their own.

My Food

John 4:34 - 34Jesus said to them: “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.

Jesus was made full of energy by doing the will of his father. We also can be nourished by working for Jehovah, even if we're out of energy, or just aren't feeling it. Thats especially when we need to go out.

Psalms 126:5,6 - 5 Those sowing seed with tears Will reap with a joyful shout. 6 The one who does go out, though weeping, Carrying his bag of seed, Will surely return with a joyful shout, Carrying in his sheaves.

Ecc 11:6 - Sow your seed in the morning and do not let your hand rest until the evening; for you do not know which will have success, whether this one or that one, or whether they will both do well.

Take advantage of every opportunity to preach, even if we're tired, because Jehovah will bless our efforts.

The Fields . . . Are White for Harvesting

John 4:35 - 35Do you not say that there are yet four months before the harvest comes? Look! I say to you: Lift up your eyes and view the fields, that they are white for harvesting.

At this point in time, the actual fields were nowhere near ready for harvest. At this point, a crowd was headed to Jesus. Jesus was referring to right hearted individuals.

Do You Worship What You Know?

John 4:20-24 - Our forefathers worshipped on this mountain, but you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where people must worship.”21Jesus said to her: “Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.22You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, because salvation begins with the Jews.23Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to worship him.24God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth

The world is increasingly only believing what they want to believe, thing thats support their already established world views, and ignoring facts that stand in opposition to that.

Romans 12:1 - 1 Therefore, I appeal to you by the compassions of God, brothers, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.

"With your power of reason". Jehovah expects us to use our power of reason he's given us in our sacred service to him.

Jer 14:14 - 14 Jehovah then said to me: “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or commanded them or spoken to them. A lying vision and a worthless divination and the deceit of their own heart is what they are prophesying to you.

Some of the things this world are taught to believe are actually rooted in falsehood.

Rom 12:2 - 2 And stop being molded by this system of things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

We must prove to ourselves, through our own study and examination, what the good and acceptable and perfect will of God is.

Romans 1:20 - 20 For his invisible qualities are clearly seen from the world’s creation onward, because they are perceived by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship, so that they are inexcusable.

A simple, stright forward truth, something that can not be changed, or depends on if people believe it or not.

Prov 2:3-5 - 3 Moreover, if you call out for understanding And raise your voice for discernment; 4 If you keep seeking for it as for silver, And you keep searching for it as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of Jehovah, And you will find the knowledge of God.

Searching for truth requires earnest effort, and its not something others can do for you. You have to find this truth and prove it to yourself, by yourself, and for yourself. What reward? We will find the knowledge of God.

2 Tim 4:3 - 3 For there will be a period of time when they will not put up with the wholesome teaching, but according to their own desires, they will surround themselves with teachers to have their ears tickled.

Sound familiar? People don't wnat to hear whats right, they want to hear what they want to hear, and supports their already established beliefs. This is what its talking about when they want to have their ears tickled.

2 Tim 3:16 - 16 All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness,

The standard for finding truth.

Isa 5:20,21 - 20 Woe to those who say that good is bad and bad is good, Those who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness, Those who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe to those wise in their own eyes And discreet in their own sight!

Serves as a warning.

Matt 7:15-20 - 15 “Be on the watch for the false prophets who come to you in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. 16 By their fruits you will recognize them. Never do people gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles, do they? 17 Likewise, every good tree produces fine fruit, but every rotten tree produces worthless fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear worthless fruit, nor can a rotten tree produce fine fruit. 19 Every tree not producing fine fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Really, then, by their fruits you will recognize those men.

Those who promote teachings in objection to pure worship, will be cut down and thrown into the fire.

John 13:35 - 35 By this all will know that you are my disciples—if you have love among yourselves.”

The main identifier of Pure Worship, is love.

John 4:23,24 - 23 Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.”

We must worship Jehovah with spirit and truth.

To find pure worship:

1. Recognize that truth does exist

2. Make a serous search for such truth

3. Give the bible an unbiased examination

4. Reject what is false

WT Summary

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Remain in Jehovah's Great Spiritual Temple!

The spiritual temple is Jehovah's provision for allowing worship wherever we are in the word, and not tied to a specific location.

Jehovah has requirements for worshipping. We must workship god not as we please, but as he pleases.

"We don't get to choose how we worship Jehovah, Jehovah chooses how we worship Jehovah".

Claiming to be a Christain is not enough to worship in the great spiritual temple. Just words are not enough.

John 4:20 - 20 Our forefathers worshipped on this mountain, but you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where people must worship.”

Before, there were certain, physical centers of worship.

John 4:21,22 - 21 Jesus said to her: “Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, because salvation begins with the Jews.

At that point in time, those who wanted to partake in true worship, in pure worship, needed to attach themselves to the Jews, as it was the source of pure worship at that point in time.

John 4:23,24 - 23 Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.”

This means that true worshipers will conform to truth, not the other way around. True worshippers will also worship with spirit and truth, which means you would be able to tell a worshipper of pure worship, by how they live, and what they preach.

How to stay in Jehovah's great spiritual temple?

1. To Uphold Jehovah's Standards

   Jehovah has standards for those in his spiritual temple. In the physical temple, cleanliness was requried. What does that show us? That Jehovah is clean, and we and our worship must be clean in order to be acceptable to him.

   • Our Speech - James 1:26 - 26 If any man thinks he is a worshipper of God but does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he is deceiving his own heart, and his worship is futile.

   • Morals - Keeping on guard against sexual immorality. On guard is an active action. Detecting threats long before they become a danger, and eliminating them. If we are aware of imporper desires, starve them out. Don't feed them, and they die. Also watch our association, they can make it easier, or harder to stay clean morally

2. Offering Jehovah our Best Sacrifices

   • Offering up certain things to him

   • Giving up certain things for him

   The sacrifices we make should cost us something. Our sacrifices should be our best, not what we happen to have on hand.

   These would include things that take us out of our comfort zone. Like serving abroad.

   We can expend our resources and energy by working on theocratic construction products.

   Foregoing things that are not wrong in themselves.

   We want to continuoually offer our whole being as a continual, living sacrifice, that we can offer repeatedly

   Matt 22:37,38 - 37 He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment.

   Heb 13:15,16 - 15 Through him let us always offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that make public declaration to his name. 16 Moreover, do not forget to do good and to share what you have with others, for God is well-pleased with such sacrifices.

   The harder the sacrifice, the greater the meaning it has to Jehovah.

   Alright, so, then, what do I need to sacrifice?

   • Kill the server

   • stella

3. By Imitating the Example of Our High Preist, Jesus Christ

   Take our time when reading, feel the emotions, and understand the context. This can be assisted by watching the Jesus Show, and ask our selves this:

   • What lesson can we learn from Jesus word or actions

   • How can I apply it in my life?

4. Commend others for their positive qualities.

• Look for the good in others. Including in those that irritate or annoy us.

2.Search for Deserving Ones

3.Use the Bible Skillfully