Srecko Sostar

money makes miracles :))) now for serious - yes, human brain and emotions inside are marvelous.

As you said, "semantic trap" is a great tool for such things :))

Idiots and idiotic rules exist in every society. Here in Zagreb, one baker freely shared to poor people the excess of bread and rolls that he did not sell on that day in front of his workshop. Inspectors punished him for $ 5,000 for that. Namely, the law says that unsold bakery products must be thrown into the garbage????!!! Common sense tell me where are you living?! https://www.vecernji.hr/vijesti/pekar-qenaj-koji-dijeli-besplatno-kruh-nakon-kazne-ponos-hrvatske-46041

"Wrongly Disfellowshipped People" I was looked at this title of post again and again. I feel how something is not right with this choice of words. And finally get to answer why and what bothered me. Word "Wrongly" is completely wrong. The elders pray before the meeting. They were "spiritually guided", or "inspired" if you like. This means there is no mistake, there is no wrong conclusion and decision. To admit that some of the decisions were wrong would ruin their authority. And if you can not believe the elders ... whom you can trust then? ;))))

Looks like you're gonna work a lot of popcorn....because the replies will not come for a long time ... if it ever will!? :))

Personally, I believe that what Serena stands for in her social projects is truly worthwhile. One of the video I've put out shows that she is socially active in many areas of American community life. She stands for high school education and university higher education. Includes self in health programs. In charitable actions. She is UNICEF ambassador. Have Philanthropic projects. Helping on Community violence. She is Partnership with Equal Justice Initiative. One have said: "She's talking when others are being quite." She started Annual charity run. She is Ambassador for the Allstate Foundation, a purple plus project for domestic abuse victims. Basically, first please take look at the links for Serena, and then read the controversial WT articles that actually say how Serena is "meddling in the things of this world". 2. Tim 2: 4 - 4 "No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civil affairs but tries to please his commanding officer." Not want talking about her motives, because we must look first at person in positive way without prejudice. So, Serena is fine role model in helping people, all people, not only to people of "her flock". :)) It is to long with copy/paste WT articles, but some people wants to see black on white. 1) „What is the theme of the message of Jehovah’s Witnesses? When Jesus gave his preaching commission, he did not instruct his followers to preach social or political reforms, union of Church and State, or any other secular ideology. Instead, he foretold: “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations.” (Matthew 24:14) Thus, in obedience to Jesus’ instructions, true Christians today continue to speak to their neighbors about God’s Kingdom—the only government capable of bringing an end to Satan’s wicked system and ushering in a righteous new world.“  - source: https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012324#h=10 TRUE Christians today do not participate in politics. Why not? Because they follow Jesus’ example. He said about himself: “I am no part of the world.” Regarding his followers, he stated: “You are no part of the world.” (John 15:19; 17:14) Consider some reasons why Christians should not become involved in politics. 2) 1. Human ability is limited. The Bible states that humans have neither the ability nor the right to govern themselves. “It does not belong to man who is walking,” wrote the prophet Jeremiah, “even to direct his step.”—Jeremiah 10:23. Just as humans were not created to fly successfully on their own strength, so they were not created to rule successfully by themselves. Speaking about the limits of government, historian David Fromkin noted: “Governments are composed of human beings; therefore they are fallible and their prospects are uncertain. They exercise a certain power, but only a limited one.” (The Question of Government) No wonder the Bible warns us not to put our trust in man!—Psalm 146:3. source: https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012323#h=1 3) We do not lobby, vote in political elections, run for government office, or try to change governments. …Otherwise, how could we have a clean conscience when we preach the good news that only God’s Kingdom can solve mankind’s problems? source: https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2016288#h=36 4) Reformers are found in almost every society, where they encourage change in an orderly, constitutional manner. Generally, they are not anarchists or revolutionaries, since most reformers stay within the law and refrain from violence. A few reformers occupy influential positions in society and take the initiative in introducing change. Others lobby and prod those in power into taking some action. Reformers try to get society to rethink its approach on issues. They do not just protest; they have ideas about how to improve things. To draw attention to their concerns, reformers may petition the public, demonstrate in the streets, or seek publicity in the media. Among the worst things that can happen to a reformer is for society to ignore him…..There can be no doubt that Jesus had the ability to bring about reform. As a perfect man, he could have blazed a trail with sweeping changes and innovations. Yet, Christ did not initiate a campaign to rid the world of corrupt officials or dishonest businessmen. He did not lead street protests against injustice, although he himself was to become the innocent victim of an outrageous miscarriage of justice….What Christ had in mind was, not a simple reform, but a complete change in the way mankind’s affairs are governed. This change will be put into effect by the heavenly Kingdom introduced by the Creator of mankind, Jehovah God, and administered by Jesus Christ as King. source: https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102004202#h=28  5) Special appendix on domestic violence with brand new "instructions" 17 Admittedly, there have been instances where an “unbelieving husband” seems to prove that he is not “agreeable to staying with her.” He might be extremely physically abusive, even to the point that she feels that her health or life is in danger. He might refuse to support her and the family or severely endanger her spirituality. In such cases, some Christians have personally decided that, despite what he might say, the mate is not “agreeable to staying” together and that a separation is necessary. But other Christians in comparably difficult situations have not; they have endured and tried to work at improving matters. Why? 18 In such a separation, the two are still marriage mates. If they lived apart, each one would face challenges, as mentioned earlier. The apostle Paul gave another reason for staying united. He wrote: “The unbelieving husband is sanctified in relation to his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in relation to the brother; otherwise, your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.” (1 Cor. 7:14) Many loyal Christians have remained with an unbelieving mate under very trying circumstances. They can testify that doing so was worthwhile in a special sense when their mate became a true worshipper.—Read 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Pet. 3:1, 2. source: https://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/watchtower-study-december-2018/honor-what-god-has-yoked-together/ What would Serena say about this? Here are 2 links.   https://www.allstatenewsroom.com/news/allstate-foundation-purple-purse-and-serena-williams-launch-national-street-art-campaign-to-make-domestic-violence-and-financial-abuse-visible/

‘Olympia doesn’t celebrate birthdays,’ Serena revealed during the US Open. ‘We’re Jehovah’s Witnesses, so we don’t do that.’ - http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-6107057/This-Serena-Williams-not-celebrate-daughters-1st-birthday.html I would not go to comment on other details you offer in your post or in MailOnline article what Serena said. That would be vast of time. :))) But for giving reasons on our acts and choices because of religion affiliation that person have, I can say how "instruction" that was given to me and some others JW brothers who faced with "neutrality issue" aka refuse to accept military service in ex Yugoslavia was this: Brother Miloš Knežević, first elder of Betel in Yugoslavia (Belgrade 1980, before and after this year) told me NOT to tell that i refuse service because i am JW. But because of my "bible trained conscience that tell me do this"! It looks strange to me, even then (i was 19), to defend my position in this way. But that was not to defend myself but JW YU Betel and JW religion in YU, in other word WT. It is funny to hear how Serena said, "my 1 year old daughter not celebrating birthday", but that is the way how mother teaching her children ... and those around them :)))

It not surprised me that people came to such conclusion about some JW practice and doctrines..

Last year i meet my mother on street, first time after my living JW. I said, "Hello mom" . Mom turn her face and she passed by me. Also my brothers, siblings did the same. About what "honor" we talking about? :)) ..... this say ...if she are not going to attend cong. meeting then outcome, solution will be....??? call roadside assistance! Image! External form! And what would other (who had influence) do about! This kinds of reasons are not fascinating at all. Not to me.

Yes, this is so obviously on week meetings when DFD coming in congregation for some time. Silently sitting in the back, last line of chairs. Almost no one give him/her a look. And then in some particular day all is the same before meeting. Some half hour later , announcement made from stage and all was so happy, big applause, smiles, hugs.... Who is normal and who is not normal in this situation?? Smile on request! Switch off! Switch on! And life goes on .....beautiful, virtuous New World!

Please, first of all, for my understanding of your position on issue, give me definition what in fact means "to be spirit directed"??? 1) How single person is spirit directed? 2) How group of people is spirit directed? 3) How (in this case Watchtower inc.) Company is spirit directed?

Mr JW Insider this down is my comment in full version as respond to Space Merchant. Judge by yourself what is it. All of us as private or legal persons/entities have NUMBER. And that is what i try to show to SM. Who gave us number? For what purpose? For what sort of work? About Glasgow video. Yes that was my mistake. I was relied to much on those who put that video, not in full length. Second problem is my English and to not listen more carefully. Mea culpa with smile! :)) Would somebody stoned me because it? People on responsible positions in WT making many and much more worst errors on global level for at least 8 000 000 people. How many looked my deleted post? And with what response, with what consequences for their life? Thanks for reading this! So you are JW who spiritually is not part of this world? That is nice. I will provide links from Australian government site about Australian Branch. Only to illustrate, the same is around the world. Watchtower have Identity number and in this case it is Charity ABN 42002861225 (ABN is Australian Business Number), and they have additional business name - "Watchtower Travel". Travel Company? :))))) https://www.acnc.gov.au/RN52B75Q?ID=91956EB4-F967-4486-8D20-89B6E9A28BCC&noleft=1 http://www.abr.business.gov.au/ABN/View/42002861225 https://connectonline.asic.gov.au/RegistrySearch/faces/landing/bySearchId.jspx?searchId=69158541&searchIdType=BUSN&_adf.ctrl-state=ptvq0dfmh_4

not know personally even when I know someone personally everyone online is a liar open with that assumption sometimes I have my doubts about you .... or similar quotes, no matter who said it, it is in general use, and not originated by Mr TTH. Yes, we are living in such atmosphere of human interactions where suspicion, mistrust, and the possibility of being deceived is the reality of every society on Earth. This is/was present in every particle of time to this day. What do you think? Did Jesus have similar/same thoughts and feelings about 12, and even Judas till the his final betrayal, in that short period of "privately knowing each other"? And what Jesus decided to make it, to do about it? What are His (public or private or tacit) comments about them? Bible is very, very short about that. Wonder why? Perhaps He was so above of commenting other this way? Oh, how i I want to be like him! But always miss the goal, intent. Some good thoughts from books of E.M Remarque comes to my mind now. It doesn't matter what name some of us put in such context. But to continue to be "moron" for some of my readers, this time i will put my signature on letter (as Paul has his) hehehe:))))) 2 Thessalonians 3:17 New International Version (NIV) 17 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write.

Do not be so strict about him/them. The man has to get rested and fresh to bring out his speech before an audience. haha

No, they had not been dfd for knowing the truth. They had been DFD for not obeying WT leaders and their explanation what is the truth. "1914 generation" and "generation" WT explanations versions from then until today are questionable, and by that to be called "truth" is not recommended. By that DFD members, who had been in disagree with past, old explanation/s, and had "advanced explanation" that was later WT put in legal use, are not in benefit in no way.

interesting thought!

yes Anna, as i said all is about "artistic freedom of expression" and about "perceive/observation/sense of spectator" :))

25 “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. 26 People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. 27 At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” From verses in Luke, those who will see Jesus in the clouds are named by noun "people". And people that are described in Luke are people who "will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world". Well this is something different then you explained and applied this on symbolic sight of people who have faith in deliverance (as JW group in video showed faith). I think that this two can not be in harmony. Maybe you would like to find some other verses for video or find some other explanation on Luke 21:27. Other problem is what sort of "sight" (see) we can talk about - literally, allegorical or some other intellectual perception and understanding on circumstances in the World. Verse said that people will "see" Him. Because "signs" of all kind ,about Luke was talking, are visible in all accepts of human perception, we can say how "signs" are literal, material, emotional, in connection with body and soul of all people and by that visible, people can "see" it/that. In that way Luke are not spoke in allegorical way. In that way context of Luke chapter 21 are very literal.

I can agree whit this. For example; my spiritual battle/s which intensified in the period between 2013 and 2015 have experienced their literal, physical, material finals in a way that I literally came out of the organization. Few connections with some of JW who are glad to see me and have some conversation and with few of you on this Forum while we are exchanging comments are the remnants of that past connection.

Please remind me WHO will see Jesus in the cloud? And HOW they will see Him in the cloud?

I get that impression. In basement video and paradise video i noticed some same faces. I do not know what was intention of film maker, and do not know what their "artistic freedom of expression" want to tell to audience. But suppose that one of intention is that public and every person in public or every who will looking to video, connect some dots and fulfill some space that came while and after somebody watched the video. So, my perception said me that after brutal intrusion of soldiers happened something terrible. Or you think that nothing bad happened to this JW group? Next video in serial was paradise video. And i saw few actors from previous video. That gave me perspective how those persons died of violent death in old system and been resurrected in NW. Just my freedom on how i am experienced the scenes of the film.

Yes, you are absolutely right. I went to see video clip ones again. People faces are not showing fear. I noticed that this little JW group assembled in the field because they obviously received some "instruction" to go there and wait. They were been warned in advance what they can expect and what would be the outcome. Because that they are calm, not panic at all. This scene support WT articles about receiving "instructions" that must be obeyed in Armageddon. So, yes, their faces not showing fear as in compare to JW group in basement video from 2016, they show fear to some level. And when male part of group stand before women to protect them, looks like bros are ready to fight against black man uniforms. NOW: Group in basement 2016 video was obviously died and resurrected in New World. So, does this mean that this (military) attack on JW people was happened before Armageddon?? No, i don't see that from video. It is Armageddon scene. Because - This year group was also attacked from same kind of (military) people but not died at all. They were saved, by Christ action. Question is: How is possible that one JW group died in Armageddon and in the same time other JW group is saved from same "enemy" in same global collapse called Armageddon ?

....according to secular Law he is guilty, no doubt. South Korea need changes by means of democratic voting for new laws. And voting will be done by "worldly" people not JW. Here is the catch No. 22. Perhaps JW preaching service need to contain message in which "worldly" people will be motivated to vote for legal changes on behalf JW need for "civilian" service. another one: "Based on Bible passages and the model of early Christianity, the Witnesses believe that Christians should abstain from war because they have no right to take human life." - article quote. abstain from war looks so familiar with Bible verse "abstain from blood". And what WT done with "abstaining"? They fractioned blood and said, "now you can use blood in this elements and forms". So, JW people have not to abstain from blood fractions. abstain? abstain from blood, abstain from alcohol, abstain from fat in food .... abstain, must go to dictionary! https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/abstain to not do something you could do, esp. something that is unhealthy or gives you pleasure: Some families abstain from eating fried food. If you abstain from voting, you do not vote although you are permitted to vote. to not do something, especially something enjoyable that you think might be bad: He took a vow to abstain from alcohol/smoking/sex to decide not to use your vote: 63 members voted in favour, 39 opposed, and 15 abstained. indian english to stay away from work: During a recent general strike, employees of all major trade unions abstained.

like this :))

This soldiers belonging to very very special forces extra trained to deal with pacifists people.... it surprised me that don't see water cannons in action. ....and when filming is over all going to Heineken stored and cooled in last year built basement :))))