The LHMM places such a high value on the lives of Russell and Johnson that it approaches worship. At times they set up special memorial services to honor their death long after they have been gone. Why wouldn’t one do this for the Apostle Paul for example? After all, he wrote a large portion of the Bible. Russell and Johnson were not even inspired.
Some LHMM followers and many Bible Students hang a picture of Russell on the wall of their homes. It’s interesting to note that these same people often do not have an image of Jesus on the wall. Who is more important?
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Reasoning
Often the LHMM places the writings of Russell and Johnson above the Bible, reason, and facts. What are our REASONS to believe? Many times the arguments presented in meetings get so complex that it is difficult to simply state the reason a doctrine might be true.
Here’s an exercise in reasons that should really help: Pick a subject or doctrine you feel strongly about. List three reasons why you believe that is true. Reasons can be Scriptures, facts, logic, etc. If you can’t think of three reasons then you really don’t understand WHY you believe that. It may be that you accept it as fact entirely on FAITH. If that is the case, you need to admit it...and also admit that someone else that doesn’t believe what you do, but has some reasons behind his/her belief could be right as well.
The REASON you believe something should NOT be because Russell or Johnson said so. If you can’t explain it to others then you don’t really understand it. FAITH needs to be based on something otherwise it is a blind faith.
Here’s an exercise in reasons that should really help: Pick a subject or doctrine you feel strongly about. List three reasons why you believe that is true. Reasons can be Scriptures, facts, logic, etc. If you can’t think of three reasons then you really don’t understand WHY you believe that. It may be that you accept it as fact entirely on FAITH. If that is the case, you need to admit it...and also admit that someone else that doesn’t believe what you do, but has some reasons behind his/her belief could be right as well.
The REASON you believe something should NOT be because Russell or Johnson said so. If you can’t explain it to others then you don’t really understand it. FAITH needs to be based on something otherwise it is a blind faith.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Hell
The LHMM believes that one of their major doctrinal purities comes in their unique view of hell as a place that is not eternal torment. This idea is not unique to the LHMM. In fact, other churches believe it and it is still debated today. The view is known as Annihilationism.
Greg Boyd discusses this view in depth in a recent sermon with some good commentary on theological debate.
Other churches state that hell is eternal separation from God without necessitating literal fire. Billy Graham was quoted in TIME magazine (November 15, 1993) "When it comes to a literal fire, I don't preach it because I'm not sure about it."
"Hell is not eternal torment, but it is the final and irrevocable choosing of that which is opposed to God so completely and so absolutely that the only end is total non-being...Annihilation might be a truer picture of damnation than any of the traditional images of the hell of eternal torment. If God has created us with the freedom to choose, then those who make such a final choice choose against the onl source of life, and they have their reward." -- "The Mystery of Salvation," the third 'Report by the Doctrine Commission of the General Synod of the Church of England," published 'under the authority of the House of Bishops and is commended by the House to the Church for study.
U.S. News and World Report had a cover story from 1/31/00 about Hell and changes in doctrinal views over time called "Hell Hath No Fury—With fire and brimstone out of fashion, modern thinking says the netherworld isn't so hot after all"
Greg Boyd discusses this view in depth in a recent sermon with some good commentary on theological debate.
Other churches state that hell is eternal separation from God without necessitating literal fire. Billy Graham was quoted in TIME magazine (November 15, 1993) "When it comes to a literal fire, I don't preach it because I'm not sure about it."
"Hell is not eternal torment, but it is the final and irrevocable choosing of that which is opposed to God so completely and so absolutely that the only end is total non-being...Annihilation might be a truer picture of damnation than any of the traditional images of the hell of eternal torment. If God has created us with the freedom to choose, then those who make such a final choice choose against the onl source of life, and they have their reward." -- "The Mystery of Salvation," the third 'Report by the Doctrine Commission of the General Synod of the Church of England," published 'under the authority of the House of Bishops and is commended by the House to the Church for study.
U.S. News and World Report had a cover story from 1/31/00 about Hell and changes in doctrinal views over time called "Hell Hath No Fury—With fire and brimstone out of fashion, modern thinking says the netherworld isn't so hot after all"
Heaven
One of the biggest differences between the LHMM and mainstream churches is the idea of who goes to heaven. Present day LHMMers do not believe that they have the opportunity to go to heaven. They believe that time has passed and a limited number of people (144,000) and some others (in a group called the Great Company) already have been selected for this reward.
The number of the 144,000 comes from three scriptures (NIV):
Re 7:4 Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel.
Re 14:1 Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads.
Re 14:3 And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No-one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.
Wikipedia has a pretty good explanation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/144,000
This term "144,000" is used to refer to The Church. Other terms for the same group are Little Flock and those that tried out for the High Calling.
LHMMer appeal to a Present Truth article that offered "88 proofs" that the High Calling was closed and ended. These "proofs" are actually more of indications. None of them are plain or easy to understand. Most of the logic involves a prior belief that the antitypes shown are true and then a mental jump is required to get the date.
Sometimes they appeal to an argument from Mt 7:14 "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." and say that this shows that few would go to heaven. The number of all Christians in the world today could be defined as few in comparison to the entire world population. According to some sources Christians of all denominations make up only 33% of the world today and it is dropping while other religions such as Islam are growing. How do you define few?
http://www.religioustolerance.org/worldrel.htm
http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html
Some LHMMers argue that you can see the faithfulness of those that had the opportunity to go to heaven because of the amazing trials they experienced that we do not have today (example martyrs who died for their faith, etc.) This is a view that is not up-to-date or uniformed.
"Modern-day persecution is well documented, despite some reports to the contrary. In fact, it is estimated that more Christians were martyred in the 20th Century than in the prior 1,900 years combined." http://www.persecution.com/
Also see the Persecuted Church resource.
Here are some issues with the LHMM teaching about heaven:
1. Revelation is a book of symbols. Why does this number (144,000) suddenly become literal and refer to an actual limited number of people that have the opportunity to go to heaven?
2. The concept of a limited number of people in heaven is based heavily on Bible chronology and the time period WHEN that opportunity is available. Since there are major problems with the chronology, it doesn’t hold true.
3. Dividing people into classes of those that are more or less faithful and who will receive greater or lesser rewards from God is not helpful. It encourages separation, pride, and spiritual abuse because some people are considered more important than others. There is no reason why we should need to know the kind of reward that God gives us. It can mainly have harmful effects one way or the other.
4. What about the Great Company? It is also a heavenly class and the only reason they believe it is closed is because Jolly said he was the last one. If he wasn't the last one, then there could be a lot more people going to heaven according to their own teachings.
5. How do you define heaven? If the future presents "a new heaven and new earth" then where will those that have believed in Jesus as their Savior spend eternity? Is a new restored earth a "part of heaven" that Christians could enjoy as well?
Maybe we have to leave some of the details in God's hand. The Bible doesn't specify so we don't really know. It is possible.
2Pe 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Re 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
Isa 65:17 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.
The number of the 144,000 comes from three scriptures (NIV):
Re 7:4 Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel.
Re 14:1 Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads.
Re 14:3 And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No-one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.
Wikipedia has a pretty good explanation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/144,000
This term "144,000" is used to refer to The Church. Other terms for the same group are Little Flock and those that tried out for the High Calling.
LHMMer appeal to a Present Truth article that offered "88 proofs" that the High Calling was closed and ended. These "proofs" are actually more of indications. None of them are plain or easy to understand. Most of the logic involves a prior belief that the antitypes shown are true and then a mental jump is required to get the date.
Sometimes they appeal to an argument from Mt 7:14 "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." and say that this shows that few would go to heaven. The number of all Christians in the world today could be defined as few in comparison to the entire world population. According to some sources Christians of all denominations make up only 33% of the world today and it is dropping while other religions such as Islam are growing. How do you define few?
http://www.religioustolerance.org/worldrel.htm
http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html
Some LHMMers argue that you can see the faithfulness of those that had the opportunity to go to heaven because of the amazing trials they experienced that we do not have today (example martyrs who died for their faith, etc.) This is a view that is not up-to-date or uniformed.
"Modern-day persecution is well documented, despite some reports to the contrary. In fact, it is estimated that more Christians were martyred in the 20th Century than in the prior 1,900 years combined." http://www.persecution.com/
Also see the Persecuted Church resource.
Here are some issues with the LHMM teaching about heaven:
1. Revelation is a book of symbols. Why does this number (144,000) suddenly become literal and refer to an actual limited number of people that have the opportunity to go to heaven?
2. The concept of a limited number of people in heaven is based heavily on Bible chronology and the time period WHEN that opportunity is available. Since there are major problems with the chronology, it doesn’t hold true.
3. Dividing people into classes of those that are more or less faithful and who will receive greater or lesser rewards from God is not helpful. It encourages separation, pride, and spiritual abuse because some people are considered more important than others. There is no reason why we should need to know the kind of reward that God gives us. It can mainly have harmful effects one way or the other.
4. What about the Great Company? It is also a heavenly class and the only reason they believe it is closed is because Jolly said he was the last one. If he wasn't the last one, then there could be a lot more people going to heaven according to their own teachings.
5. How do you define heaven? If the future presents "a new heaven and new earth" then where will those that have believed in Jesus as their Savior spend eternity? Is a new restored earth a "part of heaven" that Christians could enjoy as well?
Maybe we have to leave some of the details in God's hand. The Bible doesn't specify so we don't really know. It is possible.
2Pe 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Re 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
Isa 65:17 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.
A Cult?
Is the LHMM a cult? The answer depends on how you define a cult. The dictionary defines a cult as "A group of followers." Psychologists define a cult "as a group which deviates from cultural norms." Another definition is that "A cult is a spurious or unorthodox system of religious beliefs and ritual." The word cult is pejorative, labeling, and emotional loaded. There is not universal agreement on what group is a cult.
Many Christians would say the LHMM is a cult primarily because they do not believe in the Trinity. So for theological reasons it could be characterized as a cult because its views differ in some major respects from mainstream Christianity. The LHMM may be more of a sect than a cult. They claim to be non-denominational and non-sectarian but in practice they are not. For example, you won't find any Catholics or Lutherans among their fellowship. They believe you must leave those other churches for the purity of doctrine within their own group.
There is a large difference between theory (teaching) and practice within the LHMM. Here are four categories of typical cult traits and explanation of how the LHMM does not conform ...
1. Taking advantage of members:
2. Non-authoritarian:
3. No overt mind control:
4. Non-exclusive:
One cult characteristic is that they have a charismatic leader. It can be argued that Paul Johnson was this leader from the respect given to him and way people that met him talk about him. He died in 1950 and so the LHMM's charismatic leader only has influence through his writings.
A cult mindset is shown through the unquestioning acceptance of authority, the dependence of a fixed pattern of thought or behavior, and a willingness to rationalize unethical behavior. Some of these characteristics are present in the LHMM. The antidote against this mindset is the willingness to question accepted ideas, a priority given to truth over personal wishes, and a refusal to justify means over ends.
Following are some good resources to look at and see if they apply:
Abusive Churches and Control Oriented Leadership
Cults and Spiritually Abusive Churches
The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse
Ask yourself these questions: Can you leave the LHMM? If not, why not?
Is the idea of being associated with a group that is a known as a cult to anyone beneficial to witnessesing?
Many Christians would say the LHMM is a cult primarily because they do not believe in the Trinity. So for theological reasons it could be characterized as a cult because its views differ in some major respects from mainstream Christianity. The LHMM may be more of a sect than a cult. They claim to be non-denominational and non-sectarian but in practice they are not. For example, you won't find any Catholics or Lutherans among their fellowship. They believe you must leave those other churches for the purity of doctrine within their own group.
There is a large difference between theory (teaching) and practice within the LHMM. Here are four categories of typical cult traits and explanation of how the LHMM does not conform ...
1. Taking advantage of members:
- No breaking of the law or sexual abuse
- No stockpile of weapons
- No physical violence
- No financial pledges or tithing of members required
- Church meetings are not wild, but quiet rational discussions or lectures on beliefs
2. Non-authoritarian:
- No clergy or bishops
- Democratic voting in church matters
- Shared leadership in giving talks, leading meetings
3. No overt mind control:
- No creed to subscribe for membership
- No creed to be elder or speaker for movement
- Teaches that one should prove all things and not to accept with unquestioning minds the teachings of the church
- Questions encouraged in church meetings and conventions
- Lengthy debating done at mealtimes on beliefs
4. Non-exclusive:
- Does not keep any membership rolls
- Accepts as brother any who profess Jesus as savior
- Little proselytizing
- Believes there are Christians in other churches
- Does not condemn to hell all those outside group
- Believes that heathen and unbelievers can be saved
- Teaches that God loves all mankind
- Believes that God has given certain truths to each denomination
One cult characteristic is that they have a charismatic leader. It can be argued that Paul Johnson was this leader from the respect given to him and way people that met him talk about him. He died in 1950 and so the LHMM's charismatic leader only has influence through his writings.
A cult mindset is shown through the unquestioning acceptance of authority, the dependence of a fixed pattern of thought or behavior, and a willingness to rationalize unethical behavior. Some of these characteristics are present in the LHMM. The antidote against this mindset is the willingness to question accepted ideas, a priority given to truth over personal wishes, and a refusal to justify means over ends.
Following are some good resources to look at and see if they apply:
Abusive Churches and Control Oriented Leadership
Cults and Spiritually Abusive Churches
The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse
Ask yourself these questions: Can you leave the LHMM? If not, why not?
Is the idea of being associated with a group that is a known as a cult to anyone beneficial to witnessesing?
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Dealing With Change
After you read some of the posts here regarding doctrinal issues and problems you may be thinking about change. Making a decision to leave the LHMM might be one of the most difficult but also the most rewarding things you could do to change your life for the better. Here are some steps that may be helpful in getting over the obstacles to leaving the LHMM.
1. ADMIT that the group is not right on everything.
Admitting who Russell, Johnson, Jolly, etc. were...fallible men
2. REALIZE that important doctrines of the LHMM are not unique. Many people study them in Christian college theology classes or seminaries all the time. The doctrines have names and various followers. Examples: earthly kingdom, Trinity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinity, oneness doctrine, annihilationism (hell) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annihilationism.
3. REJECT unsupportable, unfactual, unscriptural things. Some details are not true or you would never believe them unless you implicitly trust the source.
4. ACCEPT new worship styles, new study practices, and a new way of living.
5. CELEBRATE freedom, fellowship with God’s people, God's grace, seasons, and variety of life.
6. CONCENTRATE on what is important. What doctrines are truly edifying? What will help you be more loving and fulfill the primary commands of God to love God and others?
1. ADMIT that the group is not right on everything.
Admitting who Russell, Johnson, Jolly, etc. were...fallible men
2. REALIZE that important doctrines of the LHMM are not unique. Many people study them in Christian college theology classes or seminaries all the time. The doctrines have names and various followers. Examples: earthly kingdom, Trinity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinity, oneness doctrine, annihilationism (hell) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annihilationism.
3. REJECT unsupportable, unfactual, unscriptural things. Some details are not true or you would never believe them unless you implicitly trust the source.
4. ACCEPT new worship styles, new study practices, and a new way of living.
5. CELEBRATE freedom, fellowship with God’s people, God's grace, seasons, and variety of life.
6. CONCENTRATE on what is important. What doctrines are truly edifying? What will help you be more loving and fulfill the primary commands of God to love God and others?
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Freedom
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. -- Galatians 5:13
Based on the experiences of several people that have left the LHMM, there are many freedoms and joys to be found. For example, you may:
Many of these freedoms are gained by finding a good church home to be with other believers. It takes time to feel like this is not a sin since the LHMM calls these churches the "nominal system" and "Babylon" (meaning confusion). This may at first come as a surprise, but we assure you that there are sincere, faithful, and knowledgeable Christians to be found outside the LHMM. No one has all the truth. The world is not that simple. No set of books will give you all the correct interpretations of every Scripture. You need to be OK with that.
Based on the experiences of several people that have left the LHMM, there are many freedoms and joys to be found. For example, you may:
- Serve God in ways that you are particularly gifted and called for without an organization and structure that stops you. When you discover what your spiritual gifts are (this may be done via several online tests), you can serve in ways that are consistent with your gifts, passion and temperament, You will experience greater satisfaction.
- Worship with music that is of a different style that simply traditional hymns with Old English language. It may be inspiring and up-beat.
- Read any version of the Bible and stop wasting time correcting the errors of older translations such as the KJV.
- Read and study the Bible directly without reproach.
- Walk into a Christian book store and look at any book without fear.
- Gain the ability to respect Christian leaders and speakers that bless many and have good ministries.
- Be able to fellowship with Christians from various denominations and respect and learn from them as brothers in Christ. Meet with people of your age group that can encourage you. You will not have to travel great distances at your expense to find fellowship.
- Wear comfortable clothes to gatherings.
- Participate more fully in ministry if you are a woman.
- Attend a Church that is attractive, up-to-date, relevant, and in tune with the times.
- Listen to messages from a many different teachers with gifted speaking abilities that are motivational and relevant to life.
- Find a church where they care for children and have special services geared for their age.
- Pray in normal English language and God will understand you fully.
- Find people that are real, authentic, and honest about their lives and walk with God.
- Experience church in ways that are tangible, practical, and meaningful.
- Experience different times and seasons of life and more flexibility in your schedule. For example, you may do a home Bible study for six months and then try a different one. Services at church will vary according to the time of year like Easter or Christmas. You may have the choice to go to church on a Saturday. You will not be tied to a strict discipline on church on a certain day and time with the same people for the rest of your life.
Many of these freedoms are gained by finding a good church home to be with other believers. It takes time to feel like this is not a sin since the LHMM calls these churches the "nominal system" and "Babylon" (meaning confusion). This may at first come as a surprise, but we assure you that there are sincere, faithful, and knowledgeable Christians to be found outside the LHMM. No one has all the truth. The world is not that simple. No set of books will give you all the correct interpretations of every Scripture. You need to be OK with that.
The Memorial Celebration
The LHMM celebrates the memorial of Jesus' death once a year as possibly the one most sacred event in their group. The memorial consists of sharing bread and wine (or juice) according to 1 Cor 11:26. ("For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." NIV) This is similar to communion celebrated in most churches at various times. This verse says "as often as" or "whenever" implying that the remembrance need not be only once a year. Even though type of the memorial (the Passover) occurred once a year, there are other indications in Scripture that it may have been celebrated properly more often in the early church. It is interesting to note that according to this verse the LHMM has a problem because they believe that the Lord has already arrived invisibly in 1874. So they are no longer "proclaiming the Lord's death until he comes".
They go to great lengths to calculate the "correct date" of this event and consider others that may celebrate (sometime more often as communion which is essentially the same service) at other times to be wrong. There is quite a difficulty among Bible Students in calculating this date which falls around the time commonly known as Easter. Practices for calculating the yearly date vary among Bible Student groups. Paul Johnson changed his method of calculating memorial dates in the later 1920's based on conjunction of the moon with the sun, rather than on first visibility. The modern Watch Tower organization (Jehovah's Witnesses) go by conjuction at Brooklyn, NY to give no credit to Jerusalem. A majority of others Bible Students groups choose the date by the published Jewish calendar.
Who's right? Maybe it just isn't that crucial. Maybe with God it's "the thought that counts"?
When is an issue important enough to divide over, or should it just be a matter of friendly discussion?
LHMM writings tend to over stress small things as if there is always only one right and correct way to be. The Bible doesn't make it that clear. One possible reason why the LHMM stresses the yearly observance on their day is to create a visible difference between the LHMM and other churches. It seems that certain traditions were instituted for the sake of differentiation and not necessarily because of their Biblical nature.
"In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity." - Attributed to John Wesley or St. Augustine
They go to great lengths to calculate the "correct date" of this event and consider others that may celebrate (sometime more often as communion which is essentially the same service) at other times to be wrong. There is quite a difficulty among Bible Students in calculating this date which falls around the time commonly known as Easter. Practices for calculating the yearly date vary among Bible Student groups. Paul Johnson changed his method of calculating memorial dates in the later 1920's based on conjunction of the moon with the sun, rather than on first visibility. The modern Watch Tower organization (Jehovah's Witnesses) go by conjuction at Brooklyn, NY to give no credit to Jerusalem. A majority of others Bible Students groups choose the date by the published Jewish calendar.
Who's right? Maybe it just isn't that crucial. Maybe with God it's "the thought that counts"?
When is an issue important enough to divide over, or should it just be a matter of friendly discussion?
LHMM writings tend to over stress small things as if there is always only one right and correct way to be. The Bible doesn't make it that clear. One possible reason why the LHMM stresses the yearly observance on their day is to create a visible difference between the LHMM and other churches. It seems that certain traditions were instituted for the sake of differentiation and not necessarily because of their Biblical nature.
"In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity." - Attributed to John Wesley or St. Augustine
Ruth and Naomi
The Bible story of Ruth and Naomi is an amazing example that applies to our lives in a relevant way. Various commentators and podcasts bring out the beauty contained in the details of this story. Among the many lessons we can learn are the following:
* Faith and trusting God above all
* Willingness to risk for a good cause
* God can use the ordinary lives of people to do extraordinary things. King David and Jesus eventually came through the family of Ruth.
None of these things were taught by Johnson. He focused solely on the usefulness of the story to support his own purpose which was determining who are the correct brethren in the truth and who they should follow (him).
There are types in the Bible and many are directly explained. They are there as an illustration of God's plan…mainly as concerns Jesus and the plan of salvation.
Col 2:17 "which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ."
They are not there to teach doctrines or provide details on classes, etc. Johnson abused types and went beyond what he even stated as appropriate uses. Both JF Rutherford (founder of the Jehovah's Witnesses) and Johnson used the story of Ruth to prove that their view and leadership was correct. By doing so each removed much of the beauty of the lessons that can be learned from Scripture that is relevant to our lives.
The story of Ruth and Naomi is explained by Johnson in E4 chapter 6. Here are some the basic antitype time periods as Johnson explains them:
* Famine - Scarcity of new truth from 1844 to 1921
* Ruth Chapter 2 - Period from 1881, when the gleaning began, to 1916
* Ruth Chapter 3 - Period from Dec, 1918, to July, 1919
* Ruth Chapter 4 - Period from July, 1919, to about July, 1921.
Why are these periods of time so important? There is little reference in the Bible to the present time which in the view of the LHMM has even scarcer new truth. Why doesn't the Famine refer to this time?
The character and place antitypes are explained by Johnson as this:
* Elimelech - People who didn't make it into the Church and were in the Miller movement
* Naomi - People who followed Elimelech
* Orpah - Less faithful people…
* Ruth - More faithful people…Youthful Worthies and Jesus (not the Church)
* Boaz - Jesus speaking through Johnson's specific magazine articles
* Nearest Kinsman - Society leaders, its directors and editors
* Moab - Nominal Church
* Canaan - Domain of Truth and its Spirit
Is this information relevant today? How does any of this information help anyone to be a better person? Even if it was true, it amounts to trivia.
Johnson states: “The agreeableness of this Naomi class, indicated in the meaning of Naomi (pleasantness), which made them comply too readily with the wrong directions of their leaders, had made her amenable to bitter (Mara) experiences of disappointment and loss. Beloved brethren, it is always thus when people leave the Truth and its Spirit for error and the world. This should put us on our guard against an easy-going compliance with the directions of leaders, especially at this time when almost all leaders among the Lord's people have become misleaders.”
Who would want to be on the road to disappointment and loss by “leaving the Truth”? Who determines truth and by what standard?
Johnson states that the “fullness of the Gentiles came in, in 1878” - This chronology is highly debatable. See the book “The Gentile Times Reconsidered: Chronology & Christ's Return” by Carl O. Jonsson for a detailed discussion of this topic which leads to the conclusion that most LHMM chronology is faulty.
Paul Johnson uses circular reasoning to prove his point many times. For example, “Thus our application is decidedly factual, for most of us are witnesses that these events occurred in 1918 among Truth people.” To paraphrase this, one might say “Because this story is a type of this article being published in our magazine…and we all saw the article published…this proves that the we're correct.”
Johnson writes “Boaz' going to the gate and sitting down there represents our Lord's preparing to circulate widespread among Truth people the May (printed in February and circulated in July) and August, 1919 TRUTHS” This statement is proof that Johnson believes and uses this Scripture passage on Ruth to prove that only he is the correct leader and distributor of truth in the world. He says Boaz represents Jesus (not Johnson who actually did the publishing). Also, the assumption is made that the people receiving this magazine are “the Truth people”. To paraphrase his statement today: “Boaz represents our Lord preparing to put up a web site in February of 2008 that explains the truth of what Ruth really means to the Truth people.” If you don't accept what is written there, you are evidently “the Error people”.
* Faith and trusting God above all
* Willingness to risk for a good cause
* God can use the ordinary lives of people to do extraordinary things. King David and Jesus eventually came through the family of Ruth.
None of these things were taught by Johnson. He focused solely on the usefulness of the story to support his own purpose which was determining who are the correct brethren in the truth and who they should follow (him).
There are types in the Bible and many are directly explained. They are there as an illustration of God's plan…mainly as concerns Jesus and the plan of salvation.
Col 2:17 "which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ."
They are not there to teach doctrines or provide details on classes, etc. Johnson abused types and went beyond what he even stated as appropriate uses. Both JF Rutherford (founder of the Jehovah's Witnesses) and Johnson used the story of Ruth to prove that their view and leadership was correct. By doing so each removed much of the beauty of the lessons that can be learned from Scripture that is relevant to our lives.
The story of Ruth and Naomi is explained by Johnson in E4 chapter 6. Here are some the basic antitype time periods as Johnson explains them:
* Famine - Scarcity of new truth from 1844 to 1921
* Ruth Chapter 2 - Period from 1881, when the gleaning began, to 1916
* Ruth Chapter 3 - Period from Dec, 1918, to July, 1919
* Ruth Chapter 4 - Period from July, 1919, to about July, 1921.
Why are these periods of time so important? There is little reference in the Bible to the present time which in the view of the LHMM has even scarcer new truth. Why doesn't the Famine refer to this time?
The character and place antitypes are explained by Johnson as this:
* Elimelech - People who didn't make it into the Church and were in the Miller movement
* Naomi - People who followed Elimelech
* Orpah - Less faithful people…
* Ruth - More faithful people…Youthful Worthies and Jesus (not the Church)
* Boaz - Jesus speaking through Johnson's specific magazine articles
* Nearest Kinsman - Society leaders, its directors and editors
* Moab - Nominal Church
* Canaan - Domain of Truth and its Spirit
Is this information relevant today? How does any of this information help anyone to be a better person? Even if it was true, it amounts to trivia.
Johnson states: “The agreeableness of this Naomi class, indicated in the meaning of Naomi (pleasantness), which made them comply too readily with the wrong directions of their leaders, had made her amenable to bitter (Mara) experiences of disappointment and loss. Beloved brethren, it is always thus when people leave the Truth and its Spirit for error and the world. This should put us on our guard against an easy-going compliance with the directions of leaders, especially at this time when almost all leaders among the Lord's people have become misleaders.”
Who would want to be on the road to disappointment and loss by “leaving the Truth”? Who determines truth and by what standard?
Johnson states that the “fullness of the Gentiles came in, in 1878” - This chronology is highly debatable. See the book “The Gentile Times Reconsidered: Chronology & Christ's Return” by Carl O. Jonsson for a detailed discussion of this topic which leads to the conclusion that most LHMM chronology is faulty.
Paul Johnson uses circular reasoning to prove his point many times. For example, “Thus our application is decidedly factual, for most of us are witnesses that these events occurred in 1918 among Truth people.” To paraphrase this, one might say “Because this story is a type of this article being published in our magazine…and we all saw the article published…this proves that the we're correct.”
Johnson writes “Boaz' going to the gate and sitting down there represents our Lord's preparing to circulate widespread among Truth people the May (printed in February and circulated in July) and August, 1919 TRUTHS” This statement is proof that Johnson believes and uses this Scripture passage on Ruth to prove that only he is the correct leader and distributor of truth in the world. He says Boaz represents Jesus (not Johnson who actually did the publishing). Also, the assumption is made that the people receiving this magazine are “the Truth people”. To paraphrase his statement today: “Boaz represents our Lord preparing to put up a web site in February of 2008 that explains the truth of what Ruth really means to the Truth people.” If you don't accept what is written there, you are evidently “the Error people”.
Fellowship
LHMM followers meet in small classes of 3-40 people once or twice a week for Bible Study, to hear a talk, or for a testimony meeting. This is their primary form of fellowship. It is estimated that there may be about 20 classes in the U.S. with an average of 10 followers making the number of followers in the U.S. at about 200 people. There are more LHMM followers in other countries. These estimates are believed to be correct based on some of the known congregations:
Chicago, IL - 7
Minneapolis, MN - 5
Athens, Ohio - 30
Muskegon, MI - 15
Chester Springs, PA - 10
Florida - 4
Norfolk, VA - 7
Oklahoma - 5
At national gatherings which they call a General Convention, adherents will commonly meet at a hotel and listen to talks (sermons) for 3 days at a time. Most conventions in the U.S. currently will draw an average of up to 60 people and at most 100. For 2008, there are 4 conventions planned in Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma. See the official Bible Standard web site.
The incredibly small numbers is an indication of the importance of pure doctrine to this group. They will divide at even the smallest doctrinal differences. This severely limits their fellowship causing followers to make travel to conventions across the country extremely important so that they can meet with others "of like minded faith". For followers is difficult not to feel alone in the world with so few people that believe as they do.
Regarding their numbers, they appeal to the "quality not quantity" mentality and quote Scriptures like Mt. 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
and Deut 7:7 "The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples."
LHMMers take pride in practices that are different than mainstream churches such as meeting in homes and not passing a collection plate at services (called meetings). This is a positive spin on the fact that when your numbers of people gathered are so small, there is little reason to have a facility or have an orderly request for donations.
Chicago, IL - 7
Minneapolis, MN - 5
Athens, Ohio - 30
Muskegon, MI - 15
Chester Springs, PA - 10
Florida - 4
Norfolk, VA - 7
Oklahoma - 5
At national gatherings which they call a General Convention, adherents will commonly meet at a hotel and listen to talks (sermons) for 3 days at a time. Most conventions in the U.S. currently will draw an average of up to 60 people and at most 100. For 2008, there are 4 conventions planned in Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma. See the official Bible Standard web site.
The incredibly small numbers is an indication of the importance of pure doctrine to this group. They will divide at even the smallest doctrinal differences. This severely limits their fellowship causing followers to make travel to conventions across the country extremely important so that they can meet with others "of like minded faith". For followers is difficult not to feel alone in the world with so few people that believe as they do.
Regarding their numbers, they appeal to the "quality not quantity" mentality and quote Scriptures like Mt. 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
and Deut 7:7 "The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples."
LHMMers take pride in practices that are different than mainstream churches such as meeting in homes and not passing a collection plate at services (called meetings). This is a positive spin on the fact that when your numbers of people gathered are so small, there is little reason to have a facility or have an orderly request for donations.
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Ephipany Messenger
In the book entitled The Epiphany Messenger (E10), E13, and other places Johnson writes about himself as seen in Biblical antitypes. From informal surveys, many LHMM adherents have not even read these books. In some of the countries where there are larger numbers of followers than in the U.S. (such as Poland and France) the books have not even been translated into their native language. Here are some things presented in those writings that are difficult to believe:
* Johnson sees himself in so many types that it makes him into an overly pivotal person in God's grand plan…mentioned only second to Jesus in importance.
* Dates and times of some events were not recorded and so he guessed at the times to make it work out (See E10, p. 22)
* There is little Scriptural proof offered that these detailed types are in the Bible. (Only Amos 3:7)
* Many of the facts presented can not be verified. They are things that happened in Bro. Johnson's head or during his time period. We can only take his word for it.
* Many of the parallels are questionable. For example, on E10 p. 57 Claude of Turin dies and this types Johnson completing wrting up to a certain paragraph of a certain article.
* Certain events could have been influenced by Johnson's desired or expected outcome…like losing a debate on a certain day.
* Parallel events are not consistent. Sometimes like events in the type represent multiple kinds of events in the antitypes (for example, someone's death types writing an article, someone failing to go somewhere, or someone returning from a trip, etc.)
* Johnson speaks of Jesus taking over his mind exclusively while talking to a brother. It's hard to believe he was used in this way. E10 p. 305
* If some details of types can be verified as untrue, how can we accept the rest of them as true? For example, in E10 p. 594 Bro. Johnson sees God's speeches to Job typing God speaking to him about the creative works he wrote in the Creation book. In E2 p. 472 Johnson indicates that Behemoth was a hippopotamus and Leviathan was a crocodile. A hippopotamus obviously does not have a tail like a cedar (Job 40:17) nor does a crocodile breath fire (Job 41:19-21). These creatures were more likely dinosaurs considering their descriptions. If God was telling Bro. Johnson what to write, why did he allow him to write these errors?
* All the detailed types such as those presented by Johnson ended with his death. Is Jesus done with His work on earth?
How can we reconcile these things? If we decide that some of the types Johnson gives are simply not true, how can we decide which ones are true? How can you prove Johnson was the Epiphany Messenger without appealing to his own writings? Why would God allow him to make such mistakes? How important are these types in a Chirstian's life? How much time should be devoted to studying them?
Johnson stated that no doctrine of the Plan should be based solely upon a type. Types are used to illustrate doctrines taught in clear Scripture and not used to teach (E4 p. 254 ). How can one prove there is a Youthful Worthies class without using types? How can one prove the High Calling is closed without using types? These are contradictions.
Various Bible Students have stated that they don't believe in Johnson because he saw himself in types so much. This is a valid point. If you read the 10th Epiphany volume it is evident. How can one answer this objection? It seems we must first, prove that Bro. Johnson was the Epiphany messenger, then we can accept some of the types he presented by faith. But what if he wasn't? It is a vicious circle of reasoning. Can we prove the types by the source and prove the source by the types?
* Johnson sees himself in so many types that it makes him into an overly pivotal person in God's grand plan…mentioned only second to Jesus in importance.
* Dates and times of some events were not recorded and so he guessed at the times to make it work out (See E10, p. 22)
* There is little Scriptural proof offered that these detailed types are in the Bible. (Only Amos 3:7)
* Many of the facts presented can not be verified. They are things that happened in Bro. Johnson's head or during his time period. We can only take his word for it.
* Many of the parallels are questionable. For example, on E10 p. 57 Claude of Turin dies and this types Johnson completing wrting up to a certain paragraph of a certain article.
* Certain events could have been influenced by Johnson's desired or expected outcome…like losing a debate on a certain day.
* Parallel events are not consistent. Sometimes like events in the type represent multiple kinds of events in the antitypes (for example, someone's death types writing an article, someone failing to go somewhere, or someone returning from a trip, etc.)
* Johnson speaks of Jesus taking over his mind exclusively while talking to a brother. It's hard to believe he was used in this way. E10 p. 305
* If some details of types can be verified as untrue, how can we accept the rest of them as true? For example, in E10 p. 594 Bro. Johnson sees God's speeches to Job typing God speaking to him about the creative works he wrote in the Creation book. In E2 p. 472 Johnson indicates that Behemoth was a hippopotamus and Leviathan was a crocodile. A hippopotamus obviously does not have a tail like a cedar (Job 40:17) nor does a crocodile breath fire (Job 41:19-21). These creatures were more likely dinosaurs considering their descriptions. If God was telling Bro. Johnson what to write, why did he allow him to write these errors?
* All the detailed types such as those presented by Johnson ended with his death. Is Jesus done with His work on earth?
How can we reconcile these things? If we decide that some of the types Johnson gives are simply not true, how can we decide which ones are true? How can you prove Johnson was the Epiphany Messenger without appealing to his own writings? Why would God allow him to make such mistakes? How important are these types in a Chirstian's life? How much time should be devoted to studying them?
Johnson stated that no doctrine of the Plan should be based solely upon a type. Types are used to illustrate doctrines taught in clear Scripture and not used to teach (E4 p. 254 ). How can one prove there is a Youthful Worthies class without using types? How can one prove the High Calling is closed without using types? These are contradictions.
Various Bible Students have stated that they don't believe in Johnson because he saw himself in types so much. This is a valid point. If you read the 10th Epiphany volume it is evident. How can one answer this objection? It seems we must first, prove that Bro. Johnson was the Epiphany messenger, then we can accept some of the types he presented by faith. But what if he wasn't? It is a vicious circle of reasoning. Can we prove the types by the source and prove the source by the types?
Sunday, January 13, 2008
The Armor of the Lord
Johnson often made lists of 7 or 10 items because of the significance of the numbers. At times this was quite forced. For example, In Ephesians 6:10-17 (and 1 Thessalonians 5:8) the Apostle Paul shows the armor of God to be the following:
1. Belt of truth (girded)
2. Breastplate of righteousness
3. Feet fitted with gospel of peace (sandals)
4. Shield of faith
5. Helmet of salvation
6. Sword of Spirit, the Word of God (only offensive weapon)
Evidently, since this is not a list of 7, Johnson saw it as incomplete. So he added another part to the armor called the Greaves (leg armor) from 1 Sam. 17:6. See PT 1966 p. 52, PT 1977 p. 42
This leg armor was used by Goliath.
Why would this Old Testament reference to armor worn by an enemy of God be included in this list for God's faithful?
If we include it, why wouldn’t we also include then the other parts of Goliath’s armor (or weapons) such as the “target of brass between his shoulders”, or “the staff of his spear”, etc. in the armor of God as well?
Although, this is really a very minor point, most people in the LHMM take it as fact without questioning. This shows the significance they place on Johnson for interpretation of Scripture. When this question was posed at a convention it was defended as true without reasoning.
In Epiphany volume 9, The Parousia Messenger, Chapter 9 (see page 561, etc.), we read of a type concerning David and Goliath. Here it is suggested by Johnson that David is a type of Pastor Russell and Goliath is a type of evolution. Today we see evolution deeply affecting the thinking of almost everyone, even Christians that may think they are free from it. (See www.answersingenesis.com for some good defenses against evolutionary thinking.) In the type David destroyed Goliath.
How can we say this type is accurate if, in the antitype, Pastor Russell only argued against evolution and didn’t destroy it?
1. Belt of truth (girded)
2. Breastplate of righteousness
3. Feet fitted with gospel of peace (sandals)
4. Shield of faith
5. Helmet of salvation
6. Sword of Spirit, the Word of God (only offensive weapon)
Evidently, since this is not a list of 7, Johnson saw it as incomplete. So he added another part to the armor called the Greaves (leg armor) from 1 Sam. 17:6. See PT 1966 p. 52, PT 1977 p. 42
This leg armor was used by Goliath.
Why would this Old Testament reference to armor worn by an enemy of God be included in this list for God's faithful?
If we include it, why wouldn’t we also include then the other parts of Goliath’s armor (or weapons) such as the “target of brass between his shoulders”, or “the staff of his spear”, etc. in the armor of God as well?
Although, this is really a very minor point, most people in the LHMM take it as fact without questioning. This shows the significance they place on Johnson for interpretation of Scripture. When this question was posed at a convention it was defended as true without reasoning.
In Epiphany volume 9, The Parousia Messenger, Chapter 9 (see page 561, etc.), we read of a type concerning David and Goliath. Here it is suggested by Johnson that David is a type of Pastor Russell and Goliath is a type of evolution. Today we see evolution deeply affecting the thinking of almost everyone, even Christians that may think they are free from it. (See www.answersingenesis.com for some good defenses against evolutionary thinking.) In the type David destroyed Goliath.
How can we say this type is accurate if, in the antitype, Pastor Russell only argued against evolution and didn’t destroy it?
False Prophecy
There is much evidence of failed or false prophecy in the LHMM. The biggest claim to “correct” prophecy is the pivotal date of 1914 as the start of World War I. It is one date where something visible happened that they can point to as proof. The date was not originally predicted as that way in the writings, but after the fact they changed their views to make it appear that it was a known conclusion.
Here are a few predictions that Johnson made that did not come to pass:
E10 p. 140 Johnson claimed that “the entire Bible would be revealed and commented on before his death.” He never wrote about or commented on a large portion of Scripture before his death.
E5 p.40 The Bible passages which Bro Russell did not explain before his death…about 66% of the Bible …will be correctly explained during the Epiphany period.
E6 p.322 By the end of the Epiphany everything in the Bible will be clear. See also E8 p.448 and E8 p.627-628. The LHMM believes the Epiphany period ended in 1954. So is everything clear yet?
E10 p. 108 Johnson predicted when and how he would die (October 11, 1956). He was wrong. He actually died October 16, 1950 and of different causes.
In general, Johnson predicted the future like tarot cards or Nostradamus. He tried to make events work out or when they didn't, he made up excuses for them. He even indicates this “In a few cases we construe sometimes the date...because of uncertainty as the exact date” (E10, p. 22) For many of the parallels (type and antitype) found in his books, there is no way to verify that they occurred at the times indicated because the people are dead and there are no other witnesses that viewed the events or wrote about them.
The LHMM believed they would have a pivotal role toward the Jewish nation and had a separate name called “The Israel Commission” to do this work. Raymond Jolly predicted that his booklet “Jewish Hopes and Prospects” would be pivotal to converting millions of Jewish people to Christianity. This never occurred and Jolly died in 1979.
Given these obvious false claims how much can we trust the LHMMs other claims to “truth”?
What does the Bible say about those who prophesy and their prophesy turns out to be wrong? Deuteronomy 18:20 “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.”
Here are a few predictions that Johnson made that did not come to pass:
E10 p. 140 Johnson claimed that “the entire Bible would be revealed and commented on before his death.” He never wrote about or commented on a large portion of Scripture before his death.
E5 p.40 The Bible passages which Bro Russell did not explain before his death…about 66% of the Bible …will be correctly explained during the Epiphany period.
E6 p.322 By the end of the Epiphany everything in the Bible will be clear. See also E8 p.448 and E8 p.627-628. The LHMM believes the Epiphany period ended in 1954. So is everything clear yet?
E10 p. 108 Johnson predicted when and how he would die (October 11, 1956). He was wrong. He actually died October 16, 1950 and of different causes.
In general, Johnson predicted the future like tarot cards or Nostradamus. He tried to make events work out or when they didn't, he made up excuses for them. He even indicates this “In a few cases we construe sometimes the date...because of uncertainty as the exact date” (E10, p. 22) For many of the parallels (type and antitype) found in his books, there is no way to verify that they occurred at the times indicated because the people are dead and there are no other witnesses that viewed the events or wrote about them.
The LHMM believed they would have a pivotal role toward the Jewish nation and had a separate name called “The Israel Commission” to do this work. Raymond Jolly predicted that his booklet “Jewish Hopes and Prospects” would be pivotal to converting millions of Jewish people to Christianity. This never occurred and Jolly died in 1979.
Given these obvious false claims how much can we trust the LHMMs other claims to “truth”?
What does the Bible say about those who prophesy and their prophesy turns out to be wrong? Deuteronomy 18:20 “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.”
Star Members
Johnson refers to certain individuals including himself as “star members” or those special individuals that the Lord has designated to bring out truth. Here are some statements Johnson wrote about these people:
E9 p.124 Only star members should study the Bible as a textbook; all others will end up in error if they do.
E9 p.134-135 Only star members can give new doctrine. Doctrine from anyone else will result in error. The Epiphany Messenger gives doctrines for Great Company and Youthful Worthies and Epiphany world.
E9 p.129 these two and all other star members have had privileges as to Bible Study, denied all other brethren.
E9 p.130 Star Members have been our Lord’s eye, mouth, and hand….makes them sustain a closer official and personal relationship to Him than any other contemporary members of the Little Flock and this is due to their office under the Lord and to their greater faithfulness than the rest of the members of the Little Flock living in their individual times.
E9 p.131 Star Members would so get the Truth by personal Bible Study and none others would get it by personal Bible Study.
E9. p.107 non-star members must present new things to star members first before presenting them to general brethren. Star members are Jesus’ agents in interpreting the scriptures as due.
How does the idea of star members affect your personal study of the Bible? How does it affect control of non-star members?
E9 p.124 Only star members should study the Bible as a textbook; all others will end up in error if they do.
E9 p.134-135 Only star members can give new doctrine. Doctrine from anyone else will result in error. The Epiphany Messenger gives doctrines for Great Company and Youthful Worthies and Epiphany world.
E9 p.129 these two and all other star members have had privileges as to Bible Study, denied all other brethren.
E9 p.130 Star Members have been our Lord’s eye, mouth, and hand….makes them sustain a closer official and personal relationship to Him than any other contemporary members of the Little Flock and this is due to their office under the Lord and to their greater faithfulness than the rest of the members of the Little Flock living in their individual times.
E9 p.131 Star Members would so get the Truth by personal Bible Study and none others would get it by personal Bible Study.
E9. p.107 non-star members must present new things to star members first before presenting them to general brethren. Star members are Jesus’ agents in interpreting the scriptures as due.
How does the idea of star members affect your personal study of the Bible? How does it affect control of non-star members?
Youthful Worthies
The LHMM believes the “Youthful Worthies” is a class of believers that may still have members alive today. To be in the class you needed to have consecrated your life to God before a certain year…possibly 1954. They are currently debating if the class began in 1878 or 1881. Here are some of the things written about this class as they believe:
E4 p. 438 God is not the father of the Youthful Worthies who are not actually His children.
E4 p. 439 The Youthful Worthies do not have access to the throne of grace…They should not be asked to lead prayer in a meeting of Priests.
E4 p.465-467 Antitype of Lot and his daughters - Those who teach the High Calling is open lose their Youthful Worthy standing, etc.
What is the point of separating people into classes? How does this benefit our Christian walk? Should we leave the determination of rewards to God?
E4 p. 438 God is not the father of the Youthful Worthies who are not actually His children.
E4 p. 439 The Youthful Worthies do not have access to the throne of grace…They should not be asked to lead prayer in a meeting of Priests.
E4 p.465-467 Antitype of Lot and his daughters - Those who teach the High Calling is open lose their Youthful Worthy standing, etc.
What is the point of separating people into classes? How does this benefit our Christian walk? Should we leave the determination of rewards to God?
Learning True Doctrine
Is it possible to learn true doctrine without following the writings of Russell and Johnson? In Present Truth 1940 page 12 it says,
“And whoever refuses to be taught by Jesus, speaking through these special mouthpieces, is not taught by the Lord Jesus at all; and the interpretations that such get are from Satan; and not from the Lord , since Jesus interprets the Bible through His special mouthpieces. These have no monopoly on it at all. He has that monopoly. He is pleased, and always has been pleased to use certain brethren in the Church through whom He gives His interpretations to the others, and does not give the others the interpretations through their study of the Bible alone.”
God Hearing Our Prayers
According to the LHMM does God directly hear our prayers today? In Present Truth - 1937 page 15 it says
“But the privilege of praying to God and that of access to the Throne of Grace are not the same thing. The privilege of prayer extends to more than does having access to the Throne of Grace. Perhaps the matter can most easily be clarified by an illustration. E.g., all Japanese do not have access to the Mikado as such, i.e., in his throne room, to consult or to petition him. This is a privilege reserved to specially invited ones only. But any Japanese may petition the Mikado in any one of his ministers, especially in his prime minister. And the Mikado will hear him in such a minister, i.e., the petition will come to the Mikado, not directly, but indirectly, the minister being the one actually hearing it. The Mikado gives his ministers general principles according to which they are to treat all petitions coming to them. Acting according to these the ministers decide on the answer without specially bringing the matter to the Mikado's attention. So it is with the heavenly Father. He invites only the priesthood to approach him in the throne room, so to speak, there to confer with Him or petition Him. All other prayers come to Him only indirectly, i.e., our Lord or the guardian angels directly hear them and answer them according to the principles that the Father has given Him or them. It is because only priests have access to the Throne of Grace that we advise that in priestly meetings, not Youthful Worthies, but priests offer prayer, since the prayers of the priests are more effectual then those of all others, they having access to the Throne of Grace, whereas others do not have that privilege which makes their prayers less effectual than those of priests.”No Scriptural proof is offered for this view. Here are a few Bible verses to the contrary...
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.-- James 1:5
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." -- Matthew 7:7
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. -- James 5:16
I love the Lord. He heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. -- Psalm 116:1-2
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. -- Colossians 1:9
"Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." 2 Peter 1:2, NIV.
The Arrangements
The Arrangements - These are a set of rules and regulations within the LHMM that were mainly set up by Paul Johnson for the basis of organization and control. They are unwritten and not Biblically based. People within the group appeal to them all the time to justify decisions. A better name for them might be called “the traditions”. It has been said that the arrangements are simply common sense with a little of the holy spirit mixed in which is a very subjective statement. It means the arrangements can be whatever you want them to be, yet you must follow them.
How important is following “the arrangements”? In E5 page 136 Johnson writes, “Revolutionism against the Lord's arrangements given through “that Servant” is a sign that the Lord gave to enable ones living in the Epiphany period to recognize those manifested as having lost the High Calling.”
In other words, if you go against what Johnson has determined were the rules, then you have lost your place in heaven. In many cases Johnson publicly declared who were the unfaithful ones.
See the book "The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church" by by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderen
How important is following “the arrangements”? In E5 page 136 Johnson writes, “Revolutionism against the Lord's arrangements given through “that Servant” is a sign that the Lord gave to enable ones living in the Epiphany period to recognize those manifested as having lost the High Calling.”
In other words, if you go against what Johnson has determined were the rules, then you have lost your place in heaven. In many cases Johnson publicly declared who were the unfaithful ones.
See the book "The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church" by by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderen
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Studying the Bible
The LHMM discourages the direct study of the Bible in a class setting...as in a verse by verse study of a particular book. (See Present Truth magazine July-Aug 1984 #592) In that article, it is called "textbookism" (or "open" study) as opposed to "topical textism" (also called "Berean Bible Study") which would be the studying of the Studies in the Scriptures volumes in a subject manner order determined by their literature with Scriptures used as proofs for the various points.
Some objections presented are the following:
* God did not design the Bible to be a textbook so we should not use it as one
* God's special servants have been used to help us understand the Bible and we should avoid interpreting it ourselves
Some references:
E7 p.223-224 Extreme Textbookism repudiates the Truth and thus brings one into the second death class. Textbooksim...where so called open Bible study that is study of Biblical books chapter by chapter and verse by verse.
E5 p.136 Mild form of Textbookism – In the second of these forms it sets aside the “Studies in the Scriptures” as text-books, using the Bible as such, and doubtless results in one’s being remanded to the Great Company.
2 Tim. 3:16,17: "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." It doesn't say "the writings of those who interpret the scriptures," etc. Every book of the Bible, except maybe Proverbs, is written within a context, and each verse has a place in that context. Topical study of the Bible can help us to understand it, but if we never see the context of the verses we read, how will we really know what it says?
Jesus said in John 16:13, "When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth." He didn't say "the interpreters of scripture". This doesn't mean others aren't used to help us understand, but it does point us to the source!
If Berean Bible study is the only correct method what literature apart from the Scriptures did the Bereans use to guide their study?
Acts 17:11 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Is it possible that Johnson discourages direct study of the Scriptures because people may come to different conclusions that do not agree with what has been written in his books? If so, why would he fear this?
Do you believe you should not study the Bible directly?
How would we determine who "God's special servants" are?
Some objections presented are the following:
* God did not design the Bible to be a textbook so we should not use it as one
* God's special servants have been used to help us understand the Bible and we should avoid interpreting it ourselves
Some references:
E7 p.223-224 Extreme Textbookism repudiates the Truth and thus brings one into the second death class. Textbooksim...where so called open Bible study that is study of Biblical books chapter by chapter and verse by verse.
E5 p.136 Mild form of Textbookism – In the second of these forms it sets aside the “Studies in the Scriptures” as text-books, using the Bible as such, and doubtless results in one’s being remanded to the Great Company.
2 Tim. 3:16,17: "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." It doesn't say "the writings of those who interpret the scriptures," etc. Every book of the Bible, except maybe Proverbs, is written within a context, and each verse has a place in that context. Topical study of the Bible can help us to understand it, but if we never see the context of the verses we read, how will we really know what it says?
Jesus said in John 16:13, "When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth." He didn't say "the interpreters of scripture". This doesn't mean others aren't used to help us understand, but it does point us to the source!
If Berean Bible study is the only correct method what literature apart from the Scriptures did the Bereans use to guide their study?
Acts 17:11 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Is it possible that Johnson discourages direct study of the Scriptures because people may come to different conclusions that do not agree with what has been written in his books? If so, why would he fear this?
Do you believe you should not study the Bible directly?
How would we determine who "God's special servants" are?
Classes of People
The LHMM believes that there are several classes of God's people regarding time period, faithfulness, and responsibility on the earth. The classes are roughly in order of importance: The Little Flock, Great Company, Ancient Worthies, Youthful Worthies, and Consecrated Epiphany Campers. Throughout its history, those of the higher class have been the official leaders over the subordinate ones. They believe these classes will be rewarded by God differently...some with a heavenly reward and others with a future eternity on earth. They also believe that due to their superior knowledge of the truth at this time they will be used by God to teach the entire world these things at some future time.
One of the main proofs offered for these classes are various symbols or types. One example is Jerusalem Type/Antitype. In The Bible, Volume 12, pp. 525-528 Johnson speaks about Jerusalem type and anti-type in the Millennial age picture. The views expressed in this book directly conflict with ideas presented in the Present Truth article of July-August 1978, Topography of Jerusalem, p.55 where the PT article also lists the Volume 12 reference as a source. Here is a summary of the symbolism taught:
VIEW 1 - p. 526, The Bible, Epiphany Volume 12
East - Heavenly invisible phase
Two south-eastern peaks (Solomon's temple and palace built...Moriah and Ophel) - Little Flock
North-eastern eminence (Bezetha) - Great Company
West - Earthly visible phase
South-western eminence (Zion) - Ancient Worthies
North-western eminence (Akra) - Youthful Worthies
VIEW 2 - p.55, Present Truth July-August 1978, Topography of Jerusalem
Mountains - Higher powers of kingdom
Zion (Herod's Palace built there) - Heavenly kingdom, the Little Flock
Moriah - Earthly kingdom, Millennial Ancient Worthies
Hills - Subordinate powers of kingdom
Akra - Great Company
Bezetha - Youthful Worthies
Ophel - Consecrated Epiphany Campers
To understand how one of these must be incorrect you need to look at a map of Jerusalem. Which view is correct and how do we know? This question was posed at a general convention of the LHMM in 1989 and there was no satisfying answer provided. One of the writings is incorrect...or are they both? You get to choose.
Terms and Definitions
The LHMM (Bible Standard organization) uses many terms internally. For those not familiar with the group, here are a few terms that may be helpful:
Ecclesia - This is the name used to identify a regional group of LHMM adherents as in the "Ohio Ecclesia". Origin is from the Greek word for church.
Truth - The collection of writings and ideas presented first by Charles T Russell and followed by Paul S. L. Johnson, Raymond Jolly, etc. These writings are considered the correct answers to all Biblical questions. Adherents to LHMM teachings are said to be "in the truth".
Parousia Writings - Literature that was written during the time period from 1874-1914 mainly by Charles T. Russell such as the original 6 Studies in the Scriptures volumes and the Watch Tower magazine. The Bible Standard magazine also might be considered somewhat "parousia truth" in that it is more focused toward the general public with more basic content. Parousia comes from the Greek work meaning "presence". They believe that Jesus returned to the earth invisibly in 1874 and so his presence resulted in these writings.
Epiphany Writings - Literature mainly written by Paul S.L. Johnson (and other subsequent LHMM leaders) during the time period approximately from 1914-1954 and beyond with overlappings. Epiphany writings are considered to be deeper truths and are not generally shared with new comers because they require an understanding of the basic things before it would make any sense. They are largely comprised of types and antitypes. Epiphany writings are the main differentiator between the LHMM and other Bible Students groups. They believe that the "truths" explained in them are built-on and in complete harmony with the Parousia writings. Epiphany comes from the Greek word meaning "bright shining".
Bible Standard Magazine - The LHMM magazine for the more general public. Abbreviated BS.
Present Truth Magazine - The LHMM magazine for adherents with deeper Epiphany "truth". Abbreviated PT. (originally entitled "The Herald of Christ's Kingdom")
Epiphany Volumes - A set of 17 volumes by Paul S.L. Johnson that are mainly compiled versions of the Present Truth magazine. Abbreviated E1, E2, etc.
Type - A Bible story that is a shadow (picture or pattern) of something to come.
Antitype - The more recent events that were foreshadowed by the type. For example, Johnson believed and wrote that the Biblical story of Job was a type of God dealing with him (the antitype).
Ecclesia - This is the name used to identify a regional group of LHMM adherents as in the "Ohio Ecclesia". Origin is from the Greek word for church.
Truth - The collection of writings and ideas presented first by Charles T Russell and followed by Paul S. L. Johnson, Raymond Jolly, etc. These writings are considered the correct answers to all Biblical questions. Adherents to LHMM teachings are said to be "in the truth".
Parousia Writings - Literature that was written during the time period from 1874-1914 mainly by Charles T. Russell such as the original 6 Studies in the Scriptures volumes and the Watch Tower magazine. The Bible Standard magazine also might be considered somewhat "parousia truth" in that it is more focused toward the general public with more basic content. Parousia comes from the Greek work meaning "presence". They believe that Jesus returned to the earth invisibly in 1874 and so his presence resulted in these writings.
Epiphany Writings - Literature mainly written by Paul S.L. Johnson (and other subsequent LHMM leaders) during the time period approximately from 1914-1954 and beyond with overlappings. Epiphany writings are considered to be deeper truths and are not generally shared with new comers because they require an understanding of the basic things before it would make any sense. They are largely comprised of types and antitypes. Epiphany writings are the main differentiator between the LHMM and other Bible Students groups. They believe that the "truths" explained in them are built-on and in complete harmony with the Parousia writings. Epiphany comes from the Greek word meaning "bright shining".
Bible Standard Magazine - The LHMM magazine for the more general public. Abbreviated BS.
Present Truth Magazine - The LHMM magazine for adherents with deeper Epiphany "truth". Abbreviated PT. (originally entitled "The Herald of Christ's Kingdom")
Epiphany Volumes - A set of 17 volumes by Paul S.L. Johnson that are mainly compiled versions of the Present Truth magazine. Abbreviated E1, E2, etc.
Type - A Bible story that is a shadow (picture or pattern) of something to come.
Antitype - The more recent events that were foreshadowed by the type. For example, Johnson believed and wrote that the Biblical story of Job was a type of God dealing with him (the antitype).
Welcome
The purpose of this blog is to discuss the teachings and practices of Bible Standard Ministries ...formerly known as the Layman's Home Missionary Movement or LHMM. By doing so in an open forum and from personal experiences we hope that people will be better informed about the nature of the group. We will attempt to show problems in logic and Biblical interpretation that are unfortunate at the least and harmful at the worst. We do this out of love and with a genuine desire to have LHMM adherents come to a place of increased freedom and joy by knowing Christ better and having greater fellowship with Christians.
The group itself is going through some major changes due to its present leadership. It has caused many to question it's authority and the validity of its teachings. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." - 1 Thess. 5:21
Overall, we hope this is a blessing to others. We will discuss doctrinal points as they relate to life and end each post with questions to encourage posting of responses and thought. We allow anonymous postings.
The group itself is going through some major changes due to its present leadership. It has caused many to question it's authority and the validity of its teachings. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." - 1 Thess. 5:21
Overall, we hope this is a blessing to others. We will discuss doctrinal points as they relate to life and end each post with questions to encourage posting of responses and thought. We allow anonymous postings.
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