Witness

and for the pièce de ré·sis·tance:
"True, there have been those in times past who predicted an 'end to the world,' even announcing a specific date. Yet nothing happened. The 'end' did not come. They were guilty of false prophesying. Why? What was missing?...Missing from such people were God's truths and evidence that he was using and guiding them," (Awake, Oct. 8, 1968).

“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.”  Matt 12:36
Does this exclude the Watchtower leaders who mislead thousands with failed prophesies?  
Our responsibility is to uphold Truth – never a lie.  Our responsibility is to uphold scripture, not men’s doctrines.  
Can you see this?
“I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran.
I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.
 But if they had stood in My counsel,
And had caused My people to hear My words,
Then they would have turned them from their evil way
And from the evil of their doings.” Jer 23:21,22
The way many JWs cater to the Watchtower’s leaders, is as if God has turned a deaf ear to their sins.
“Am I a God near at hand,” says the Lord,
“And not a God afar off?
 Can anyone hide himself in secret places,
So I shall not see him?” says the Lord;
“Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.
 “I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in My name, saying, ‘I have dreamed, I have dreamed!’  How long will this be in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies? Indeed they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart,  who try to make My people forget My name by their dreams which everyone tells his neighbor, as their fathers forgot My name for Baal.  Jer 23:23-27
Armageddon - fought in the valley of decision.  It is here.  Surely, you must be feeling the battle of truth against lies, as we speak.  Eph 6:12

I am sorry you don't believe me, Saladin.  Most do not, since my message is not very palatable.  It is your choice.  If you dare to read anything I have written on here, you will find consistency in my direction to explain who the anointed are as God's Temple, what they face in the organization, and why it is important to leave the abomination "standing"/sitting in God's Temple.  2 Thess 2:1-12
I am not sure if you are using the excuse that restrictions have been imposed on you, not allowing you to answer more, or if you truly have no further words to tell me.  Although, I am willing to discuss.  
 
 

I also watched the ARC, and I found Br. Jackson's comments to be conflicting with GB endorsed statements by the WT. Now, I do have confidence in my fellow JWs, and I don't think JWs have such blind faith in the GB that they would do something way off-base from the Bible's message. But to suggest that JWs would never do something out of harmony with the Bible? The history of our organization verifies that JWs obediently follow the GB--even when their direction is wrong. Had I been at the ARC, my follow up question to Br. Jackson would have been: What do you suppose JWs should do if they hear incorrect direction from the GB? In the July 15, 2006 WT, it says, "What if we are tempted to murmur because of having doubts about certain teachings that Jehovah’s people hold in common? Then let us not be impatient. The ‘faithful slave’ may eventually publish something that answers our questions and clears up our doubts. It is wise to seek the help of Christian elders."
It's pretty clear that JWs are not to jump ahead of the GB and the org if we have doubts. This "wait on Jehovah" attitude is pretty much the standard view in the org. We can't take matters into our own hands; we have to wait for the org to change. Some are waiting for changes that may never happen. All the while, our conscience is conflict--do we follow our own Bible conscience or keep with the group?
But our interpretation is in constant flux, isn't it? If a major thinking changes after baptism--do we need rebaptized? I think the point is our heart condition. If we serve Jehovah out of a loving heart, we don't have to have all the right answers.
Yep, that's a basic truth we can all agree on, Br. Jackson . But after that, who decides what's a "basic thing" that should not change? Many things have changed, so much so that the landscape of the religion is pretty different from the start.
This just doesn't jive with our organization's teachings. The GB definitively claims it is the sole channel of communication from God. For Br. Jackson to vacillate and suggest that they aren't the sole composite spokesperson is IMO disingenuous. If you asked any JW, "Who are the spokespeople on earth for God?" the answer would not be the one Br. Jackson gave. With a statement like that, you might even get taken to the back of the KH!
Consider what it says in the November 2016 WT, "Some may feel that they can interpret the Bible on their own. However, Jesus has appointed the ‘faithful slave’ to be the only channel for dispensing spiritual food. Since 1919, the glorified Jesus Christ has been using that slave to help his followers understand God’s own Book and heed its directives. By obeying the instructions found in the Bible, we promote cleanness, peace, and unity in the congregation. Each one of us does well to ask himself, ‘Am I loyal to the channel that Jesus is using today?'" I don't see how much clearer the GB could make it that they are the sole composite spokesperson for God, and they should not be questioned on their direction.
Jumping back to the ARC, it seems apparent to me that Br. Jackson wanted to minimize the GB's controlling ways as much as possible. I've said already that they play two sides of the coin very well: a channel that deserves unquestioned obedience and a human group that errs. When it suits them, like this situation in Australia, they can appear weak to benefit the case. But it's not accurate to the way things are. And you can't have it both ways.

“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.”  Matt 12:36
Does this exclude the Watchtower leaders who mislead thousands with failed prophesies?  
Our responsibility is to uphold Truth – never a lie.  Our responsibility is to uphold scripture, not men’s doctrines.  
Can you see this?
“I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran.
I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.
 But if they had stood in My counsel,
And had caused My people to hear My words,
Then they would have turned them from their evil way
And from the evil of their doings.” Jer 23:21,22
The way many JWs cater to the Watchtower’s leaders, is as if God has turned a deaf ear to their sins.
“Am I a God near at hand,” says the Lord,
“And not a God afar off?
 Can anyone hide himself in secret places,
So I shall not see him?” says the Lord;
“Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.
 “I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in My name, saying, ‘I have dreamed, I have dreamed!’  How long will this be in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies? Indeed they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart,  who try to make My people forget My name by their dreams which everyone tells his neighbor, as their fathers forgot My name for Baal.  Jer 23:23-27
Armageddon - fought in the valley of decision.  It is here.  Surely, you must be feeling the battle of truth against lies, as we speak.  Eph 6:12

Dear Saladin,
Sir, I don’t believe you read the bulk of my post.  Using the definition of “steward” that I provided, do you see the GB acting as a faithful “steward” over the entire anointed body – the Temple of God?  1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22
Can you give me an example where the GB requests input from all other anointed “slaves” of Christ? Yes, there are more anointed "slaves" than 7 men at the top.  
Or, are anointed ones, as well as many others, judged as spiritually “dead” for not agreeing with GB doctrine – doctrine “unique” to the organization, and not based on scripture?  This is “beating” another servant of Christ, and fits the parable of the “wicked slave”.  Matt 24:48-51; Rev 13:15  They will tell you they “represent” all anointed ones, yet these anointed ones have been made mute.  The elder body is the only voice that is heard, which is also "beating"/"trampling" God's Temple.  Matt 24:15
Rom 14:4; Matt 7:1,2; 5:11,12;Rev 11:1-3;7-10
Would you say these actions by the GB are righteous and Christian?  For questioning doctrine and for searching out truth in Christ, the “world” of JWs hate individuals who desire to serve Christ, realizing he is the only way to salvation and not “any other name” – the Wt. organization.  Acts 4:12   
 “Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you.  We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”  1 John 3:13-15
The GB has exalted itself above all others, acting as Master over the anointed Body of Christ.  They have replaced Christ as the Head.   Is this what Christ expects them to do?  Ezek 21:25; Matt 23:12; Matt 20:25-28; 1 Cor 12:23-26
 
 
 
 
 

Oh no, no , .... satan would corrupt me too as he has done with all other also :)))

Why? :)) "Witness" based her conclusion and perspective in explanation based on Bible text. So Bible is rude and is not enough civilised compared to today's  view on normative,  from 21 century people who have different stand than society and people before 2 or more millenniums.  
And she is polite in communication.  But if she is firm in her standpoint and other looks on that as rude, i think it is not her problem.  Bible talking about many things, some of them are so nice and loving but some are disgusting and are not material for My book of Bible stories for JW kids or any kids     

Dear Saladin,
Sir, I don’t believe you read the bulk of my post.  Using the definition of “steward” that I provided, do you see the GB acting as a faithful “steward” over the entire anointed body – the Temple of God?  1 Pet 2:5,9; 1 Cor 3:16,17; Eph 2:20-22
Can you give me an example where the GB requests input from all other anointed “slaves” of Christ? Yes, there are more anointed "slaves" than 7 men at the top.  
Or, are anointed ones, as well as many others, judged as spiritually “dead” for not agreeing with GB doctrine – doctrine “unique” to the organization, and not based on scripture?  This is “beating” another servant of Christ, and fits the parable of the “wicked slave”.  Matt 24:48-51; Rev 13:15  They will tell you they “represent” all anointed ones, yet these anointed ones have been made mute.  The elder body is the only voice that is heard, which is also "beating"/"trampling" God's Temple.  Matt 24:15
Rom 14:4; Matt 7:1,2; 5:11,12;Rev 11:1-3;7-10
Would you say these actions by the GB are righteous and Christian?  For questioning doctrine and for searching out truth in Christ, the “world” of JWs hate individuals who desire to serve Christ, realizing he is the only way to salvation and not “any other name” – the Wt. organization.  Acts 4:12   
 “Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you.  We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”  1 John 3:13-15
The GB has exalted itself above all others, acting as Master over the anointed Body of Christ.  They have replaced Christ as the Head.   Is this what Christ expects them to do?  Ezek 21:25; Matt 23:12; Matt 20:25-28; 1 Cor 12:23-26
 
 
 
 
 

Their version of a FDS is a far cry from a faithful “steward” who would gather provisions from all anointed sources, and distribute appropriately to those in need.
Steward –
 one employed in a large household or estate to manage domestic concerns (such as the supervision of servants, collection of rents, and keeping of accounts)
 an employee on a ship, airplane, bus, or train who manages the provisioning of food and attends passengers
 one appointed to supervise the provision and distribution of food and drink in an institution
 one who actively directs affairs : manager
“The Lord said, 'Who then is the faithful and wise steward [of the estate], whom his master will put in charge over his household, to give his servants their portion of food at the proper time?  Blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired) is that servant whom his master finds so doing when he arrives.'" Luke 12:42,43
Sadly, Wt’s “steward” “beats” his fellow servants into submission to their regimen. 
“But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is taking his time in coming,’(“overlapping generation” doctrine) and begins to beat the servants, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk, (Jer 13:13; 25:25; Eph 5:18; Rev 18:3) the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and assign him a place with the unbelievers.  And that servant who knew his master’s will, and yet did not get ready or act in accord with his will, will be beaten with many lashes [of the whip].”  Luke 12:45-47
(AMP Bible)
 
 
 

Their version of a FDS is a far cry from a faithful “steward” who would gather provisions from all anointed sources, and distribute appropriately to those in need.
Steward –
 one employed in a large household or estate to manage domestic concerns (such as the supervision of servants, collection of rents, and keeping of accounts)
 an employee on a ship, airplane, bus, or train who manages the provisioning of food and attends passengers
 one appointed to supervise the provision and distribution of food and drink in an institution
 one who actively directs affairs : manager
“The Lord said, 'Who then is the faithful and wise steward [of the estate], whom his master will put in charge over his household, to give his servants their portion of food at the proper time?  Blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired) is that servant whom his master finds so doing when he arrives.'" Luke 12:42,43
Sadly, Wt’s “steward” “beats” his fellow servants into submission to their regimen. 
“But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is taking his time in coming,’(“overlapping generation” doctrine) and begins to beat the servants, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk, (Jer 13:13; 25:25; Eph 5:18; Rev 18:3) the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and assign him a place with the unbelievers.  And that servant who knew his master’s will, and yet did not get ready or act in accord with his will, will be beaten with many lashes [of the whip].”  Luke 12:45-47
(AMP Bible)
 
 
 

What follows is my partial response to a letter, which accurately expressed and represented the tribulation now being experienced, by many.
-  -  -  -  -  -  -
My response:
 
I am so very glad that you contacted me. Please read the scriptures as you come to them. The central body of learning which I offer you, is found within them.
Regarding the links, I hope you will return to them in a second reading, to go into more depth about my statements and cited scriptures.
 
I will go right to one comment you made, because if I don't address it first, all that follows may not have value to you.
You said;
"I wanted to ask is this; since you are  
in contact with other anointed Christians, are all of your anointed  
associates a product of the Watch Tower Society? That is, are there not  others, outside of the Society, that have been called? 
Since I view many of  the new and current views of the Society to be an apostatizing, I would  tend to question the provenance of all anointed issuing forth from that  source."
 
The best way to address your concerns about anointed former members of the "WT", is to give you some facts for your own consideration...
Satan has demanded to "sift" each Chosen one 
(Luke 22:31; 1Pet.4:12; James 5:10-11; Job 1:8,12; John15:20; Rev.12:10; 1John2:14) 
by using his "world" (1John5:19; John15:18) of the Jewish system (John8:22-23), against them...
     [to see the identity of that "world"/"system" of the scriptures that 
      does the persecuting , (See: Greek- system/arrangement/adornment):
The Chosen must be subjected to the same tests and trials which Jesus endured. They accomplish this by following closely, the exact pattern of his example, symbolized by his "path"...
(John16:28; 14:28, 6, 4; Luke 9:23; Rev.14:4 B; Heb.13:13;
 2Cor.1:5; Phil.3:10; Rom.6:5; 1Pet.2:21), 
...up to the capacity which each one is able to endure them (1Cor.10:13). 
If they take the same full course of Christ, they can reach the Father (John14:6; Matt.11:27; 18:10; Eph.2:6; Rom.8:9; Matt.5:8).
   Traversing the full course of Christs example, means that like Christ, the Kingdom candidates must start out in subjection to the influential power of the leaders of God's genuine people/the "world"
(Gal.4:4; John1:11; Matt.15:24; 1John4:9; John1:12,10; 8:23), 
and faithfully conquer their hatred and opposition, as Christ did 
(John16:33; 14:30; 1John2:14-15; John8:40; Mark 9:31; John19:6-7; 15:18; Matt.24:9; John16:2; Mark 13:13).
A glaring contrast appears, between the genuine path presented by Christ, when compared to the counterfeit "Peace and security" and "spiritual paradise" that is offered to anointed, by the "WT" (1Cor.4:2,8-13; Rev.3:17-18). Accepting that false safe harbor, brings them under the "operation of error" -2Thess.2:9-12; Col.2:8; Rev.13:10; Luke 21:24 . The flimsy and vain protection they offer (Rev.6:15-16) is a lie... a snare, sourced with Satan (Matt.16:21-23; Luke12:19-20; 2Thess.2:9-11; 1Thess.5:3-4, 6; 1Pet.5:8) 
(Rev.16:13-15; 1Tim.4:1). This demonic delusion is designed to lull Gods Chosen into spiritual sleep, and prevent them from ever completing their gamut of faithfulness against that "safe harbor"/lie/apostate nation of God 
(Eze.13:10-14; Jer.23:16-17; 8:11; 6:13-15; Rev.16:21; Ps.18:13; 147:17; 1Thess.5:3) 
(Eph.5:6,11; 2Pet.3:10; Jer.13:26; Rev.17:16-17; Nahum 3:5; Jer.51:25; Rev.8:8; Zech.4:7) 
(Rev.11:3,5; Jer.5:14; Hosea 6:5; Rev.16:8; Jer.23:29; Matt.10:20)
Satan's snare is camouflaged by a counterfeit Mount Zion (Rev.14:1). They claim that their "mountain-like organization" (Zech.4:7;Jer.51:25; Rev.8:8), is the fulfillment of Isa.2:1-2 ... even though the next verse reads (Isa.2:3); "The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.". Although they claim that the "governing body" are representatives of Zion; they also claim that those men are fallible. To ascribe fallibility and a lack of spirit-inspiration to Mount Zion (and, "the word of the Lord"), is blasphemy.
Additionally, the Organization's  heirarchy of "overseers" made up of spiritual Gentiles (Rom.2:28-29)), is an impersonation of the spirit-directed Body of Christ (Rev.13:15) (John20:22,21)... both due to be revealed and exposed in the time of the end (Isa.28:17;Nahum 3:5; 2Thess.2:8).
Naturally, one could not complete the course of Christ, unless they were surrounded by the same circumstances and challenges, and offered the same "path". 
  I submit to you on the basis of the collective experiences of all present and sober anointed ones, that the "WT" is the only place they can come under the dominion of apostate religious leaders, who authentically lead, represent, and are, "God's chosen people" (Isa.43:21; 1Pet.2:9-10) (Luke12:42,45-48), such as those who persecuted Christ (Matt.15:24; 20:18-19; John19:11; 1:11). 
 The various erroneous doctrines sourced in "Christendom" cannot successfully subvert and take captive (Col.2:8), those who have been anointed by God's spirit (1John2:20,27). Only the "WT" has succeeded in misleading (Matt.24:24-25; Luke 21:24; Rev.13:10,7) and "killing" them (Rev.6:11; 11:7), and prophecy tells us why, and how.
 
Therefore, those anointed who are waking up from the "WT",
(Mark 13:34; John10:2-4; Isa.42:16; 49:9) (2Cor.6:17; Rev.18:4; Matt.24:15-16)
should not so much be viewed as tainted, but rather, as being tested (1Cor.3:12-15) and refined (Zech.13:9; Mal.3:1-3).
    Yet I will tell you, that when I was anointed by God through Christ, it was just previous to my first contact by the "WT". I was not a "JW" at the time of my anointing. It has been made clear to me by Christ, that the immediate contact by, and joining the Organization which ensued after my anointing, was my initiation into my gamut of testing in the pattern of Christ.
    We are clearly told that God's genuine priesthood in the time of the end, require refining from defilement/wormwood. 
(Mal.3:1-3, Eze.22:30; Zech.3:1,3-4,8; Rev.3:17-18; 13:7; Dan.8:11-13; 11:36; 2Thess.2:4; Mark 13:14)  
(Rev.10:10; 8:10-11; Jer.23:15) 
That would not be necessary, if they were not coming from a place of spiritual and doctrinal defilement (Rev.2:20).
 
Having addressed your question about the authenticity of anointed who are now regarded as "apostates" from the "WT", 
(Mark 13:13; John16:2; Matt.25:6; Heb.13:13; Rev.11:3,7-10; Luke 17:33,37)
and their reliability as trustworthy priests (Mal.2:7)... 
 ...It cannot be taken for granted (1John4:1; 1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-16), that all ex-"JW" chosen ones are sources of "the proper food at the proper time" (Luke12:42). Scripture exhorts and equips us, to discern this on an individual basis, determined through what is offered (Matt.7:20; Luke 6:43,45) (LINK).
Of the number of anointed who have obeyed Christ (Matt.24:16; Rev.18:4), not all are being fully refined, nor offering "the proper food at the proper time". Yet a few, are.
I hope you have at least determined that a period of unfaithful ignorance, is not equivalent to permanent uselessness 
(Zech.13:9; Rom.9:27-28; Isa.65:8; Jer.3:21-22; Isa.22:12; Rev.11:3).
With this in mind, I will respond as best as I am able to various points you raise in your letter, and if there is one that I neglect, please let me know. 
 
Because of my responding before to others who have written to me, there will be some points for which I have and will, provide a *link*. The link will contain deeper and further scriptural information on the subject at hand. 
I hope you will not view such references as an impersonal response, because I will tailor such references as close as possible to my best appraisal of your need, and great care has gone into making the scriptural information contained at each *link*, thorough, relevant, and substantial. Parts of an article may seem irrelevant to you, but if the *link* is cited, there is something of import in the article, that does relate. I hope you can extend the needed patience in this regard.
 
I can see from your comments, that you are relatively new to the writings at my Blog. For this reason, what follows is a Bible course of study, tailored to the individual needs expressed in your letter. Those needs are actually becoming more common among those who write to me, so my response to you will be helpful to many. 
I'm sure you will need to divide the material into segments. I hope you will take your time, and attend each section with as careful attention as was given to it's composition.
 
  Again, if any coverage of a topic is found lacking for you personally, I am eager to address the need. In addition to tending to you, it will also help supplement the overall resources offered at the Blog.
 
- ONE  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
 
First I will say that I relate to much of your expressed experiences, while within the "Watchtower". I was in from 1975, until my disfellowshipping in 2011 for "causing divisions" 
(Luke 12:51; John7:43; 10:19-20). 
According to prophecy, the distressing "cognitive dissonance" with "WT" doctrine which you mention, initially plagues the anointed who are capable of repentance, to be followed by it breaking out upon the "rest" [symbolized in Revelation, as "earth, sea, trees" (Rev.7:3; 8:7;Zech.13:9)]. This is a new thought to those coming out from the "WT"... specifically... that the Great Tribulation is spiritual, not physical. 
(Luke21:25; Isa.17:12; Joel 2:1-2; Rev.9:2-3; 13:1) (LINK). 
The Greek word for "tribulation" is 
G2347 thlípsis – properly, pressure (what constricts or rubs together), used of a narrow place that "hems someone in"; tribulation, especially internal pressure that causes someone to feel confined (restricted, "without options") and carries the challenge of coping with the internal pressure of a tribulation, especially when feeling there is "no way of escape" (mentally "hemmed in").

Luke19:43; Hosea 2:6; Mark 15:17; Eze.28:23-24
You speak of the evident "confusion" (meaning of "Babylon") which is manifested by these vacillating doctrines of the "WT". 
Yes, this is also what the Bible refers to as "shifting sands", "churning sea casting up mire and mud" ("waters" that lack clarity -Eze.34:19), and "shifting shadows" (darkness that keeps changing), 
which the Bible indicates would identify the false prophet/wicked steward, who was due to arrive with dominion over the Chosen, in the time of the end.
(Matt.24:24-25; 1Tim.4:1; Rev.13:13-16; 13:11,14-15; 19:20; 14:8; Jer.51:7)
    In contrast, those priests who faithfully represent Christ by teaching his truth (Matt.7:24; Rev.22:1; James 1:17), would have immovable consistency (John15:16; Rom.3:4 B).
 
-  TWO -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
 
You then speak of a job that took you away from "WT" indoctrination for a time, and upon your return, you perceived a discrepancy between past and present teachings. You cite the futility of learning tenets and teaching them, only to later be told that they are outdated and obsolete.
What you are observing, is just what the Bible foretold about the teachings of this particular religious empire which holds captive, the anointed. I think you will recognize the connection with prophecy, if you understand the interpretation of the symbolic "three" "froglike expressions" of Rev.16:13.
A frog goes through many changes as it develops from an egg to an adult. If we were to constantly observe it's development, we would not clearly notice it's transformation. 
If we were to remove ourselves from observing its development, only to return at a much later time, we may not even believe that it was the same creature. Gradual transformation from accepted truths, to accepted lies, is a tactic of Satan.
-  THREE -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 
 
I am extremely sorry for the loss of your daughter. I can only imagine the heartache. Yet please know that you are not alone in experiencing loss of children. I understand that it is not the same as physical death... but it is now common for many to lose their children in other ways, due to the organization. I have lost two daughters. One is still captive and zealous in the organization, and I have not had contact with her, in years. The other was so damaged by the "elders", that she went off the deep end, into sin, drugs, and mental illness. She blames all of her problems, on my raising her in the Organization. She despises me for it. Our pain might cause us to lash out at God (Rev.16:11) (Job 1:22). But if we stop to consider that loss of children, cooling of love, family conflict, and many other distresses, were all a part of Christ's confiding to his disciples, what we must expect of these times in which we are. 
    He gave such warnings, in the hope that we would not be overcome, but rather, would recognize the reality of our spiritual circumstances and our place in the time-line of prophecy. The "Great Tribulation", is just that. It is the greatest spiritual oppression, to ever arise upon Christians. If it's Satanic deceptive powers were not limited by God, even the Chosen could not be saved from it (Luke 18:26-27;Matt.24:22,13).
 
Although it may seem like stale bread... the observing of such fulfillment **among the authentic Chosen, IS an indication of the approaching End 
(Luke 21:28-31; Mark 13:19-20,28-36; 1Cor.15:24-25; Ps.110:1-2; Rev.17:14).
 
-  FOUR -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
 
Ec.7:7 reads;
"Surely oppression destroys a wise man’s reason,
And a bribe debases the heart."
I deeply regret how all your oppression has impacted your wife.
Even the wise can lose their sanity when tribulation becomes severe. I myself, was driven to an attempt of suicide. But I hope that you will not give up in your trying to understand the bigger picture of our present reality; Because with that understanding, comes a way out. Once your hold on truth is firm, you may be able to comfort and assist your wife to that same freedom. I am not saying that full healing from the loss of a child can come in this life. But I assure you that hope and peace are within reach, 
for those who do not give up (Matt.7:7; 24:13; John14:27).
 
Regarding your comment about Christ's "return" and "invisible presence", please consider these scriptures... 
(Acts1:11; Rev.1:7; Heb.12:1; Matt.24:30; 16:4; Luke 17:20-21; 
 Rev.3:3; 1Thess.5:2; 3:13; Jude 1:14; Rev.19:11,14; 17:14;
 2Cor.10:3-5; 5:20; Matt.24:45; Rev.1:7; 6:9-11; 11:7)
 
-  FIVE -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 
 
Lastly,
you state; "I guess I lack an assured expectation of things hoped for. ".
Please clarify for us, in your mind, what hopes we had, as well as the hopes to which "JW's" still cling. Were they not false hopes? These too, Bible prophecy, identified and foretold 
(2Thess.2:1-3; Luke 17:20-24) (Deut.18:20-22).
What I am saying, is that it is not wrong for you to let go of the false hopes which we were previously given (Heb.13:14; Rom.8:25; 12:12)...
as long as we replace them with authentic reason for hope.
Regarding a premature expectation of Christ 
  [and the reason why he seems to "delay" (Luke 12:45-46; Hosea 6:5; Hab.2:2-3)],
these *links* may help.
I hope I have covered all the points you raised, and have given you an ample start to learning and perceiving what God's Word has to say on those issues and subjects.
As always, I am here for questions.
I know my responses tend to be copious, but I must offer as much of what I have been given, as is possible, in my desire to be found faithful and diligent in feeding Christ's sheep... especially those who are in distress.
 
In my own experience of regaining my spiritual sight, I remember the steps I had to go through, as I peeled away "WT" deception by means of spirit and truth, by the grace of God. 
I know that each puzzle piece is hard to fit into one's previous faith (Mark 2:22), unless the related concepts are also addressed. This is why I try to anticipate the same objections and questions which I myself went through during my process of being "set free". 
(John8:32) (Isa.49:9; Eze.34:14; Matt.24:16).
Rather than leave such a problem to arise, I hope to smooth the path, by anticipating how a "WT" doctrine might cause one to stumble at a particular point. This is why I provide *links* to common objections or questions to the subject at hand. Yet each person is an individual, so if there is something not covered, just let me know. Thank you for your good questions. If you conclude that what is written here, is true; please heed it's guidance, and share it. If so, I hope you will also associate with our group, to afford yourself some comfort and support. Though we are few, we treasure our precious harmony of faith.
(*links* can be found in this article on Pearl Doxsey’s blog)
 
May God's spirit be with you, as you examine the wisdom of His guidance, found in His Word.
Love in Christ,
Pearl
(Pearl Doxsey 4womaninthewilderness)

He ask, rhetorical question; "Who is FDS?" In asking Jesus not gave the answer.
Only 2 conclusions;
A - IF FDS giving food he is ok and will receive revard 
B - IF FDS not giving food he will be punished. 
 

LESSONS FOR TODAY (WT study edition, nov 2013)
17 . ....(3) At that time, the LIFE-SAVING DIRECTIONS that we receive FROM Jehovah’s ORGANIZATION may not appear practical from a human standpoint. All of us MUST BE READY TO OBEY ANY INSTRUCTIONS we may receive, whether these appear SOUND from a strategic or human standpoint OR NOT.    AND NOW (after few years we have) SALTO MORTALE “WHO REALLY IS THE FAITHFUL AND DISCREET SLAVE?” (WT study edition, feb 2017) 
12 The Governing Body IS NEITHER INSPIRED NOR INFALLIBLE. Therefore, IT CAN ERR IN DOCTRINAL MATTERS OR IN ORGANIZATIONAL DIRECTION. In fact, the Watch Tower Publications Index includes the heading “Beliefs Clarified,” which lists adjustments in our Scriptural understanding since 1870. Of course, JESUS DID NOT TELL US THAT his faithful SLAVE WOULD PRODUCE PERFECT spiritual food.
  Basement Video on Convention is one example of direct statement  how should, would, will JW be saved  by resurrection . :)))
 

Legal Department and other board directors aka GB must vote before final decision. It is Company.

Are Jehovah's Witnesses a part of the community?
As the ARC pointed out .... matters not reported to the police as a matter of NATURAL CONSCIENCE ... puts the community as a whole at risk .... not JUST Jehovah's Witnesses.

Acts 3:22,23 is referring to Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ is often called the "Greater Moses". We know that Jesus Christ is our undeniable leader and we should "Listen to him" as it says in Matthew 17:5. Now, how should we expect to receive direction from Jesus Christ today and in the coming years? Is it direct from Christ or from a body of men acting as representatives for him? This isn't meant as an attack on the GB, but I just wanted some clarification on this matter. Because in the first century, Jesus Christ was able to direct Saul/Paul directly to preach on his behalf. He didn't go through a centralized body to see that work done.

Which David always did, and which the Governing Body never has. 
“To Solomon, God said, “As for you, if you walk before me as your father David walked, with a heart of integrity and in what is right, doing everything I have commanded you, and if you keep my statutes and ordinances” 1 Kings 9:4
This is the difference between David and the leaders of the Watchtower, who refuse to follow court procedures, who disfellowship other anointed ones and brethren for rejecting doctrine not based on scripture; and although they teach JWs to serve God with complete heart, mind and soul, out of the other side of the mouth they expect servitude toward an organization. Matt 6:24  Many decrees are broken and ignored by the Watchtower. 
The difference between David and the GB is the integrity of heart. 
 “New light” or “present truth” are not other terms for discipline and correction.  God “sends” his discipline in the form of affliction; by removing his protection and allowing Satan to do his thing. Luke 22:31  If we desire THEN to listen to God’s decrees, which Wt. leaders do not do, it results in the cleansing of our sins. Mal 3:2; 1 Pet 1:6,7; Heb 12:11; Rev 3:18
INDIVIDUALLY.
Truth is far more important than unity built on error.  Establishing Truth within ourselves is by submitting our heart completely to the God of Truth and His Son. 
Never, has God expected us to tolerate lies from the mouths of teachers and leaders.  Jer 23:16; Luke 6:43,45  We do not receive salvation through unity to a consistent operation of error.  Ezek 18:31; Zech 7:12; Heb 10:29; Titus 2:14
“How happy is the one who does not
walk in the advice of the wicked
or stand in the pathway with sinners
or sit in the company of mockers!
 Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction,
and he meditates on it day and night.”  Ps 1:1,2
 
 
 

Which David always did, and which the Governing Body never has. 
“To Solomon, God said, “As for you, if you walk before me as your father David walked, with a heart of integrity and in what is right, doing everything I have commanded you, and if you keep my statutes and ordinances” 1 Kings 9:4
This is the difference between David and the leaders of the Watchtower, who refuse to follow court procedures, who disfellowship other anointed ones and brethren for rejecting doctrine not based on scripture; and although they teach JWs to serve God with complete heart, mind and soul, out of the other side of the mouth they expect servitude toward an organization. Matt 6:24  Many decrees are broken and ignored by the Watchtower. 
The difference between David and the GB is the integrity of heart. 
 “New light” or “present truth” are not other terms for discipline and correction.  God “sends” his discipline in the form of affliction; by removing his protection and allowing Satan to do his thing. Luke 22:31  If we desire THEN to listen to God’s decrees, which Wt. leaders do not do, it results in the cleansing of our sins. Mal 3:2; 1 Pet 1:6,7; Heb 12:11; Rev 3:18
INDIVIDUALLY.
Truth is far more important than unity built on error.  Establishing Truth within ourselves is by submitting our heart completely to the God of Truth and His Son. 
Never, has God expected us to tolerate lies from the mouths of teachers and leaders.  Jer 23:16; Luke 6:43,45  We do not receive salvation through unity to a consistent operation of error.  Ezek 18:31; Zech 7:12; Heb 10:29; Titus 2:14
“How happy is the one who does not
walk in the advice of the wicked
or stand in the pathway with sinners
or sit in the company of mockers!
 Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction,
and he meditates on it day and night.”  Ps 1:1,2
 
 
 

I really cannot believe this is your actual position. I am in awe, and not in the meaning of awesome. 
You mean to tell us that you prefer mindless adherence over critical thought?  After reading your post........yes, this is exactly what you want and prefer. 

Yes, the watchtower has had to make a way to make baptism a legally binding contract between the baptisee and the watchtower bible and tract society. The jehovahs witness baptism is simple idolatry at it's deceptive best.

Yet, that is what the Watchtower has enforced, when it reminds individuals:
"Have you dedicated your life to Jehovah and symbolized your dedication by baptism in water? If you have, that is wonderful! Do you remember when the brother giving the baptism talk asked whether you had dedicated yourself to Jehovah and understood that “your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses”?  Wt 4/2017
And what the most recent second baptism question requires:
Do you understand that your dedication and baptism identify you as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in association with God's spirit-directed organization? Having answered yes to these questions, candidates are in a right heart condition to undergo Christian baptism."
The questions you answered to publicly are found in the Wt 1944, 2/1 p. 44
Thank new light for the condensing down and filtering out the important elements of the two questions asked of you, to:
"On the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do his will?"
 

The picture below was posted by a JW on pinterest.  Frequently, the organization warns against idolatry; yet the most diabolical form of idolatry goes unnoticed - reverence given an earthly organization.
Quote from the Watchtower 05/8/15 p. 31:
“Jehovah God’s GLORY directly lights up this ORGANIZATION, just as the Shechinah cloud illuminated the Most Holy.” 
Isa 42:8
I am YHWH, that is My name;
I will NOT give my GLORY to ANOTHER
Or My praise to IDOLS. 
 
 KR Book chapter 20, pp. 209-219:
“Their work brings PRAISE to Jehovah and his ORGANIZATION.”
Isa 42:8, again:
I am YHWH, that is My name;
I will NOT give my GLORY to ANOTHER
Or My PRAISE to IDOLS. 
 
“Little children, keep yourselves from IDOLS. Amen.”  1 John 5:21
 
 
 
 

Well (this has become one of my favorite quotes lately) the truth is truth no matter who says it

Are you saying that this forum, which is about jw's and the wt, is not the place to bring up topics such as these when they pertain to the wt specifically? 
Get real J.R., this is exactly the place to bring this up. Also, just because there are other religions with the same problem doesn't mean we cannot point out the FACTS on this particular religion. Since I have never been a jw, I cannot be called an apostate. What I will accept is the title opposer, because I am opposed to ANY organization who hides people who prey on children and then covers it up to protect the perpetrator.