Anyone who’s been coming to my prophecy sites knows I have been warning you that the status quo on the temple mount is going to change. As a matter fact, for years, I’ve been putting up my warning before I show the news concerning new events about the temple mount. Just take a look below.
Now the report below concerning the Saudi’s new peace deal with Israel is very interesting. Is it possible that a new peace deal between the Saudis and Israel will turn out to be the fulfillment of Daniel 9:27? Keep in mind, any new piece deal that would fulfill the Daniel 9:27 prophecy would have to be for a period of seven years. If it isn’t that piece deal is not the oneDaniel was warning about. Even if this new piece still turns out not to be the fulfillment of Daniel 9:27, one thing is for sure, the status quo is going to change on the temple mount and the third temple will be built.
Saudi Arabia wishes to signal to Jordan that it considers itself entitled to set foot in the al-Aqsa mosque in east Jerusalem, which would make the crown prince and the Al Saud dynasty responsible for the three holy places of Islam: Mecca, Medina and al-Aqsa.” Saudi sources stressed that the religious issue is critical in the eyes of the royal palace,
Every September I remind you of Rosh Hashanah. Since the Jews are asking for the religious right to blow their shofar on the temple mount this year, we should pay attention to our times. Jesus warned the church would be rapture and you will see the significance of September if you click the link below.
A group of advocates including rabbis and a farmer Knesset member has submitted an official request to Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s Minister of National Security, asking for permission to blow the shofar on the Temple Mount on the holiday of Rosh Hashanah next month.
12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
Hilary rapidly intensifies into hurricane with ‘significant’ impacts to Southern California, Southwest
Ezekiel 43:8In their setting of their threshold by my thresholds, and their post by my posts, and the wall between me and them, they have even defiled my holy name by their abominations that they have committed: wherefore I have consumed them in mine anger.
More scriptures concerning the building of the Third Temple
Girl creates daily schedule calendar for Third Temple
While many people are praying for the arrival of the Third Temple, one special young girl took on a daunting project that is a huge practical step in jump-starting the Temple service. One recent article stood out. Miriam, a young autistic girl, took a step towards realizing her dream of seeing the Temple restored by creating a calendar detailing the daily schedule of the Temple service. Now, it is not enough to pray for the temple building. You have to start building it.”
If you are not a believer in Jesus Christ or, if you are one of those who don’t read the bible you must know the building of this Jewish Third Temple is not a good thing. This is the Temple of which the Antichrist is going to go into and tell the world he is god. Those who have already have Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior know full well what the building of this Third Temple means. It means the Antichrist has arrived and he is going to begin to force everyone to take his mark as stated in the Revelation chapter 13. As I have been warning you for years you will hear a lot of news about building this Temple. In the past 2 years I have seen my warnings come to pass. Keep in mind, my warnings are based on the word of God which I have listed below. I know what the Lord has warned us will come to pass and it is. We are seeing more news about the Temple now because the birth pains Jesus warned us about are getting stronger which is another prophecy fulfilled. I am sure if you don’t know Jesus yet you can sense by watching the news our world has been turned up side down. You can trust the warning of Christ! We are will on the road to seeing the prophecies that have not yet been fulfilled and, that includes the building of the Third Temple. Stay with me as I continue to show you what the news is reporting in the very near future concerning the Jews being able to worship on the Temple Mount and their building of the Temple.
Jesus warned us that crime would be a major problem in the last days. This lawlessness would take its toll of the hearts of people as you will see from the prophecy below. America at one time was known as a moral nation. A nation that dealt with crime with great force however, all that has changed now. America’s no longer dealing with those who for example steal from stores and I am not talking about the Mom and Pop stores, I am talking about major chains. I put up a report from April of 2023 to show you how many stores closed their doors because of mass stealing. In June of this year there was more news about stores closing in the bay area as you will see below. People watching the news who see some 50 young people raid a store all at the same time and, just walk out the door with no one stopping them can’t believe what they are seeing.
If Gavin Newsom runs for President you should take a look at what under his leadership has happened to his own state. It has been riddled with crime. If he failed to protect the people of California and their businesses I hate to see what would happen when in charge of the nation! Under Gavin’s leadership we saw one of the dumbest propositions. Proposition 47 only gives the criminals more incentive to steal. I quote from a report entitled: “Proposition 47 did not end prosecution of thefts under $950 in California”
“Thanks to Prop 47 thefts under $950 will not be prosecuted,” Carolla commented on the post. “So cops will not bother showing up. Just a reminder that you get what you voted for, California!” https://apnews.com/article/fact-checking-160551360299
Here is the bottom line. What Jesus warned us about crime in the end times is already upon us and it is going to get worse.
Flash-Mob’ Daytime Burglaries Strike Southern California Stores
A second daytime “flash-mob” burglary in Los Angeles County over the weekend that cost a luxury department $300,000 may be related to a similar burglary four days earlier in Glendale, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Trump charges: I believe we have a compromised President
President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a video statement in which he slammed President Joe Biden and what he called “the Biden Crime Family’s” alleged corruption. “It is now 100% proven that the Biden Crime Family received more than $20 million from foreign countries while Crooked Joe was Vice President. And probably a lot more than that. That’s just the money they found. Not one of Joe Biden’s defenders has even attempted to explain what Joe and his family did, including his children and his grandchildren. What were they doing getting all of this money?” Trump charged in the video. “China has paid him a fortune”.
Bosnian bodybuilder streams wife’s murder on Instagram live
A Bosnian body builder live-streamed a shooting rampage, along with his murder-suicide via the social media platform Instagram on Friday, the New York Post reported. Bosnian prime minister responds “I have no words to describe what happened today in Gradacac,” said Nermin Niksic, the Prime Minister of Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The murderer took his own life in the end, but no one can bring back the lives of the victims.”
Philadelphia teen charged with plotting ‘catastrophic terrorist attack’
A teenager in Philadelphia has been arrested and charged for plotting what authorities have called a “catastrophic terrorist attack.” The 17-year-old boy was arrested by SWAT forces on August 11, following an investigation FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. The teen is accused of being in contact with Katibat al Tawhid wal Jihad, an extremist Islamist group affiliated with Al Qaeda. Katibat al Tawhid wal Jihad was officially designated as a terrorist organization by the US State Department in 2022.
California’s latest crime statistics tell us, like they have for the past three years, is that crime continues to rise. Violent crimes are up 6.1 percent and property crimes are up 6.2 percent over the 2021 figures.
Warring Palestinians are killing each other in refugee camps
In the Palestinian “refugee” camps of Lebanon, the inhabitants are ill-treated by the Lebanese government. They are kept confined to the camps, unable to obtain Lebanese citizenship, and banned from working at most professions. But inside the camps, they are given free rein to do what they do best: that is, they’ve just now been trying to kill one another. It’s not surprising: Arab society is inherently violent;
Take a look at verse 4 above. It says, “they have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation: that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.” When you see the current news and see the same people in the Psalm 83 warning saying the exact same thing in the news today, you are kidding yourself if you believe it is a coincidence. Pay attention to the last day signs because they are staring us right in the face. Why do you think God listed the exact names of the people who were going to come against Israel? Remember Jesus told us to keep on the watch. If you are doing what he asked there would be no question, when you saw the news with the same people as the prophecy you would know you had better be right with Christ as he would be coming back soon.
War of words intensifies as Hezbollah chief Nasrallah threatens to wipe out Israel
Hassan Nasrallah, secretary general of Hezbollah – the Iranian terrorist proxy organization in Lebanon – threatened Israel with extinction on Monday. Nasrallah charged that in the case of conflict, Hezbollah will ensure that Israel “will cease to exist.”
Best Buy manager tells employee he can’t have ‘Christian stuff’ in office, report says
Twin Cities-based Best Buy has been accused of religious discrimination in the latest expose from investigative journalist James O’Keefe. “He was telling me that it was work appropriate to have all this LGTBQ stuff that’s going on in the office and everywhere else, but it’s not okay for me to be a Christian myself, and have a Bible … at the office.
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
Tropical Cyclone “Lan” makes landfall in Japan, bringing record-breaking rainfall
Tropical Cyclone “Lan” made landfall near Cape Shionomisaki in Japan’s Wakayama Prefecture just before 05:00 LT on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 (20:00 UTC, August 14), with winds near 160 km/h (100 mph) — equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane in the Atlantic.
Deadly EF-2 tornado hits China’s Jiangsu
At least two people were killed and 15 others injured when an EF-2 tornado accompanied by a hailstorm hit the town of Yancheng, China’s Jiangsu Province on August 13, 2023. This is the first deadly tornado to hit China and Jiangsu since July 20, 2022.
Strong and shallow M6.1 earthquake hits Mariana Islands region
A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.1 hit the Mariana Islands region at 13:51 UTC on August 14, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.1 at a depth of 38 km (23.6 miles).
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
Japan is preparing for its second typhoon in a week, with airline companies canceling flights and rail operators halting some operations.
In a display of extreme irresponsibility, Austin Independent School District offered free shuttle service to the annual Austin Pride event on Saturday.
A disturbing trend in America: New data reveals that suicides and drug overdoses climbed to a record high in 2022. The twin crises have been rapidly accelerating post-Covid and could be a symptom of a worsening nationwide mental health crisis.
A long-term study performed by doctors, researchers, and scientists at the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, and published in the medical journal Circulation, has revealed a shocking statistic that 66 percent of young male adults and adolescents suffer heart damage, dysfunction, and/or scarring from mRNA vaccines.
Read Chapter 21 of my book you see the link below on the rapture
Why do the Jehovah’s witnesses fail at the test of faith? If you are a Jehovah’s witness you have to come to the point where you trust what your leaders are teaching you or, are you following what the real word of God says? If you consider yourself a true Jehovah witness there is a simple way to find out who it is you really are following. You ready to see if you pass the faith test? Your salvation depends on your answer.
I Ask any Jehovah witness if they believe Jesus was a true God? Every Jehovah’s witness I asked this question, they tell me yes. I then ask them are you sure about your answer? Every time the answer is the same, yes.
I then ask them did Jesus ever sin? Their answer immediately is always no, he never sinned. I then ask them as I did with the first question, are you sure about your answer? Every time the answer is the same, yes.
Then I ask if Jesus was a true prophet? Once again they will immediately say yes. I then ask them as I did with the first question, are you sure about your answer and you won’t change it? Every time the answer is the same, yes I am sure and I won’t change it.
I then ask them if Jesus ever prophesied anything that did not come to pass? Again their answer will immediately be no. They will be quick to tell you everything Jesus prophesied came to pass or he was a false prophet and false God. I then ask them as I did with the other questions, are you sure about your answer and you won’t change it? Every time the answer is the same, yes I am sure and I won’t change it.
I then ask them did Jesus ever mislead anyone in anyway? They will again say no. I then ask them as I did with the other questions, are you sure about your answer and you won’t change it? Every time the answer is the same, yes I am sure and I won’t change it. I repeat asking are you sure because I want to make sure they are standing firm in their faith. If you are a JW you shouldn’t have any problem with me asking this question. It is not a trick. I just want to find out if you really believe what you say.
Now let us find out where you stand with the teaching of the bible or with men who have fulfilled
Now ask them to read John chapter 2:19-23. These verses say, “Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days Iwill raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.”
Now I ask the Jehovah witness this question. Did Jesus do exactly what he said he would do? They will say do what? I read this back to them, “raise himself from the dead“ just as it says in the bible. They will tell you Jesus did not raise himself from the dead, but that the Father raised him.
As I said, they only say they believe in Jesus but they really do not stand by His own words. By not believing in the very words spoken by Jesus himself, they make Jesus into the following: If he didn’t raise his body as he stated he would, then he becomes a liar, sinner, false prophet, deceiver, and false God. Why is it even his own disciples remembered what Jesus said and they believed it, yet the so-called witnesses will not? The answer is clear. The Jesus Christ they are following is not the same Jesus Christ found in the bible. Their leaders are misleading the witnesses and they cannot challenge them on this issue either! It is very simple, either Jesus did what He said, or he isn’t the True God. If you’re not blinded by Satan you will see the truth as it is written. Jesus raised himself, because as God in the flesh, He had that power to do so. Jesus even said he had the power to take His life back. This is what Jesus said, “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:18). The Jehovah Witnesses can’t believe Jesus had the ability to give up His life, and take it back. Just because we don’t understand how Jesus did it, doesn’t mean He couldn’t. This Watchtower Organization is only one of many who are misleading millions of people worldwide. If you are a true believer you must accept the Word Christ spoke, when He stated, “I will raise it up.”If you do not believe Jesus did exactly what he prophesied then, you are still in your sins and your faith is in vain.
Now you can believe Satan who wants you to believe Jesus did not raise his same body that hung on the cross or you can take Jesus Christ’s words to heart and believe he was a true God and had the power to raise himself up again. Now, we know what the bible says about John 2:19-23 what is the Watchtower organization teach?
The Watchtower organization says that Jesus did not rise from the dead in the same body he died in. You can find what your own leaders want you to believe from your own book titled, “You Can Live Forever on Paradise Earth”. On pages 143-44 of that text it stated, that He rose as a spirit creature and that the material body of Jesus was taken away by God the Father. Therefore, they deny the physical resurrection of Christ. This is the doctrine of the Watchtower Society. Now look at what Jesus told His disciples the day He appeared in the upper room after He rose from the dead. When His disciples saw Christ appear, the bible states, “ they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit”. Now read what Jesus’ response was, I quote the very words of our Lord. “Why are ye troubled? And why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have” (Luke 24:36-37).
Jesus flat out tells them He is not a spirit! Christ said, “it is I myself”, proving that He was the exact same Jesus, who hung on the cross. He even told them to touch and handle Him so they would know for sure it was the same exact Jesus and he also eats fish with them to demonstrate he was flesh and bones, not a spirit creature, as the JW’s want you to believe.
Now the fact is this, if Jesus did not rise in the exact same body as the one hung on the cross, then He lied when He told His followers “It is I myself”. He would have been lying when He said He wasn’t a spirit. Did Jesus lie? To a true Christian the answer is NO, Jesus was exactly the same man He was when He was hung on the cross. To a JW Jesus becomes a liar if they do not except the very words spoken by Christ. The question is, whom are you going to believe, Jesus own words, or false prophets in your organization who have distorted God’s word?
Read the very words of your own Watchtower. The Watchtower, April 1, 1972 p.200 I quote, “This would indicate that Jehovah’s Witnesses today make their declaration of the good news of the Kingdom under angelic direction and support…the nations will see the fulfillment of what these witnesses say as directed from heaven”.
Now listen to the warning made by Paul the Apostle concerning following another gospel and angels who deliver that gospel. “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel: which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned!” (Galatians 1:6-9 NIV Study Bible). Paul saw the future and prophesied correctly, because angels did come and give another gospel to these Jehovah’s Witnesses. This gospel however would be come with a curse. What is that curse? Paul says of the person preaching this false gospel, “let him be eternally condemned! ”
For years the Watchtower Society has tried to cover up all their false prophecies. They do this by telling their people not to talk to people outside the Jehovah’s organization. Why? Because their are Christians out there who know about all the prophecies made by the JW organization that failed to come to pass. Of course this tactic doesn’t work to well when the witnesses have to go door to door as part of their requirements to salvation. When at someone’s door who begins to point out these false dates the witnesses will leave. Why? Because this is what the leaders of the JW organization tells them to do. They even tell their people that the people you are talking to are satanic workers who are trying to take you out of the organization. Of course this is exactly the opposite. The JW who believes the JW organization’s teaching that Jesus did not raise his own body 3 days later are the ones who are spreading Satan’s work.
This past week I had two JW’s in their twenties come to my door. I asked them about John 2:19-23 and if they believed the very word of Christ. They told me that Jesus did not raise himself from the dead but the Jehovah did. When I asked them, you then believe Jesus is a false god, a liar, a deceiver, and a false prophet. I asked them if their leaders ever told them about all the false prophecies they made? They didn’t have a clue what I was talking about which did not surprise me at all since their leaders try their best to keep all their false prophets a secret.
1914 : Failed Watchtower Prophecy
One of the most misleading statements in Watchtower publications is that they accurately foretold 1914 to be the “start” of the conclusion of this system of things. Rather, Watchtower falsely predicted 1914 to be the “end” of the system of things, the conclusion of Armageddon and the start of the earthly paradise.
It is important to know what Watchtower preached would happen in the years leading up to and including 1914, and compare this with what it now claims was said.
What Watchtower said prior to 1914
What Watchtower claims it said prior to 1914
“The year A.D. 1878 … clearly marks the time for the actual assuming of power as King of kings, by our present, spiritual, invisible Lord – …” The Time is At Hand (1911 ed) p.239
“The Watchtower has consistently presented evidence to honesthearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914.” Watchtower 1993 Jan 15 p.5
“But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble. Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226
“Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to the year 1914, decades in advance, as marking the start of “the conclusion of the system of things.” Awake! 1973 Jan 22 p.8
The contradictory statements above help identify two critical facts:
Watchtower falsely predicted this system would end in 1914
Watchtower is not entirely honest about its history
Governing Body member Samuel Herd makes the statement in Watchtower’s 2016 documentary The Kingdom 100 Years and Counting;
“At the kingdom’s birth in 1914, the Bible Students were not exactly sure what was going to happen, but they knew it would be a pivotal year.”
This is a fabrication, as Watchtower was dogmatic as to exactly what was going to occur in 1914. Expectations for 1914 were forcefully presented as fact, as shown in the following quotes.
The early followers were as convinced they knew what was going to happen in 1914 as current followers are convinced the Great Tribulation and Armageddon will come at any moment, resulting in the destruction of all worldly people. This is because the same manipulative terminology used prior to 1914 is still used in Watchtower publications to this day.
1914 is the pivotal date for the existence of Jehovah’s Witnesses, currently explained as the date:
the Gentile times ended
Jesus started ruling in heaven
the Last Days began
1914 is the basis for the interpretation of the majority of other Bible prophecies. Most importantly, this was the time during which Jesus is said to have come to inspect and cleanse the Watchtower Society, resulting in Jesus choosing it in 1919 to be the only organization he works though in our time, and the only means of salvation.
The current understanding is significantly different to the original teachings. Prior to 1914, the Watchtower believed:
The Last Days began 1799
Jesus Parousia started 1874
Jesus started ruling in heaven in 1878
The Gentile Times would end in 1914, resulting in the:
end of Armageddon
fall of false religion
end of all earthly governments
heavenly and earthly resurrections
paradise on earth
The 1914 doctrine has changed by necessity, and continued to change in the twenty first century, as it has been falsified by the progression of history. It has progressed from:
The last days started in 1799, ending in 1914.
The last days started in 1914, ending within a single lifetime/generation of those born prior to 1914.
The last days started in 1914, with an unspecified ending, after a period of an “overlapping generation.”
The ability of the Watchtower to accurately foretell the meaning of 1914 is a great source of faith for Jehovah’s Witnesses, unaware of what Watchtower said prior to 1914. Nothing Russell said about 1914 came to pass. For Russell and early Watchtower followers, the 2nd of October 1914 was expected to be the the conclusion of this system of things.
“Quite a few delegates stayed at Bethel, and, of course, members of the headquarters staff were present at the breakfast table on Friday morning, October 2. Everyone was seated when Brother Russell entered. As usual, he said cheerily, “Good morning, all.” But this particular morning was different. Instead of proceeding promptly to his seat, he clapped his hands and joyfully announced: “The Gentile times have ended; their kings have had their day.” “How we clapped our hands!” exclaims Cora Merrill. Brother Macmillan admitted: “We were highly excited and I would not have been surprised if at that moment we had just started up, that becoming the signal to begin ascending heavenward—but of course there was nothing like that, really.” Sister Merrill adds: “After a brief pause he [Russell] said: ‘Anyone disappointed? I’m not. Everything is moving right on schedule!’ Again we clapped our hands.”” Yearbook 1975 pp.72,73
The expectation was 1914 would see the final end of worldly kingdoms, replaced by God’s Kingdom fully established on earth.
“In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished by the end of A.D. 1914.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is at Hand (1889) 1911 ed. p.99
From the 1911 edition forward, this quote gave an additional year for these events to be fully accomplished, extending to A.D.1915.
The Time is at Hand (1889 ed.) p.99 The Time is at Hand (1911 ed.) p.99
Watchtower quotes prior to 1914
Russell taught that Jesus invisible presence began in 1874 and rulership in 1878.
“Our Lord, the appointed King, is now present since October 1874, A.D., according to the testimony of the prophets, to those who have ears to hear it: and the formal inauguration of his kingly office dates from April 1878, A.D.:” Studies in Scriptures Series – The Day of Vengeance (1897) p.621
The heavenly kingdom was shown Scripturally to begin before the end of the Gentile Times.
“But the kingdom of God is to be set up before the days of the Gentile end, for “in the days of theses kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom; and it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms” (Dan. 2:44).”” Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World (Barbour & Russell, 1877) p.27
Prior to forming the Watchtower, Russell wrote that 1914 would see the end of all governments.
“… the seven times will end in A.D. 1914; when Jerusalem shall be delivered forever, and the Jew say of the Deliverer, “Lo, this is our God, we have waited for Him and He will save us.” When Gentile Governments shall have been dashed to pieces; when God shall have poured out of his fury upon the nation, and they acknowledge him, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Bible Examiner C. T. Russell Oct 1876
Russell originally was a follower of the teachings of Barbour, and together they co-authored works such as the 1877 book Three Worlds, and the Harvest of This World. After splitting from Barbour in June 1879, Russell began publishing the magazine Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence in July 1879. This became distinctly his own religion with the incorporation of the organization “Zion’s Watch Tower Tract Society” shortly thereafter. Russell continued to publish many of the prophetic interpretations he had received from Barbour, as can be seen in what follows when comparing Three Worlds and Watchtower quotes.
1874 to 1914 were described as the greatest period of trouble in human history, the period of Armageddon itself, with the end of trouble to be in 1914.
“Now, in view of recent labor troubles and threatened anarchy, our readers are writing to know if there may not be a mistake in the 1914 date. They do not see how present conditions can hold out so long under the strain. We see no reason for changing the figures – nor could we change them if we would. They are, we believe, God’s dates, not ours. But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226 (reprints 1677)
The following quotes during the lead up to 1914 show there could be no doubt as to what Watchtower followers expected. The end of the Last Days in 1914 was to initiate a number of endings and new beginnings.
1914 – the end of the preaching work
1914 – the end of all religion
1914 – the wholesale destruction of all government
1914 – the end of the Great Tribulation
1914 – the end of Armageddon
1914 – Russell and his followers to be raised to heaven
1914 – Jesus’ Kingdom established as paradise on earth
1914 – commencement of the earthly resurrection
The following Watchtower quotes are just a small selection that highlight how they promoted these assertions.
“The seventh trumpet sounds from Aug. 1840, until “the time of trouble,” or day of wrath is ended. Hence, it doubtless ends with the times of the Gentiles, and this forty years of conquest; and therefore, sounds until A. D. 1914; at the end of which, Babylon the great, will have fallen, and the “dragon” be bound: that is, the nations will be subdued, and “the prince of this world cast out.”” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) p.143
“A.D. 33, to A.D. 70 was 36 ½ years; and so from A.D. 1878 to the end of A.D. 1914 is 36 ½ years. And, with the end of A.D. 1914, what God calls Babylon, and what men call Christendom, will have passed away, as already shown in prophecy.” Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come (1891) p.153
“True, it is expecting great things to claim, as we do, that within the coming twenty-six years all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved; but we are living in a special and peculiar time, the “Day of Jehovah,”…
In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished at the end of A. D. 1914.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) pp.98-99
“Be not surprised, then, when in subsequent chapters we present proofs that the setting up of the Kingdom of God is already begun, that it is pointed out in prophecy as due to begin the exercise of power in A.D. 1878, and that the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced. The gathering of the armies is plainly visible from the standpoint of God’s Word.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) p.101
End of the “Time of Trouble” (Great Tribulation)
Barbour and Russell published that the time of trouble would end in 1914, a teaching Russell continued to promote in Zion’s Watch Tower.
“The seventh trumpet sounds from Aug. 1840, until “the time of trouble,” or day of wrath is ended. Hence, it doubtless ends with the times of the Gentiles, and this forty years of conquest; and therefore, sounds until A. D. 1914; at the end of which, Babylon the great, will have fallen, and the “dragon” be bound: that is, the nations will be subdued, and “the prince of this world cast out.”” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) p.143
“But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226
The End the “Day of Vengeance” (Armageddon)
Armageddon, also referred to as the Day of Vengeance, and the Battle of the Great Day, was to end in October 1914.
“we have seen that God has a set time for every feature of his plan, and that we are even now in this “Day of Vengeance,” which is a period of forty years; that it began in October, 1874, and will end in October, 1914.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance 1911ed pp.546,547
“… the battle of the great day of God Almighty … The date of the close of that “battle” is definitely marked in Scripture as October, 1914. It is already in progress, its beginning dating from October, 1874. … The Scriptures show also that the battle of the great day will begin with the church of God, and that the overthrow of the great nominal church systems will precede the overthrow of the present civil powers; for the Lord is about to shake, not only the earth (the civil organisation for society), but heaven (the ecclesiastical powers) also (Heb. 12:26), to the end that great “Babylon,” falsely called Christendom -Christ’s kingdom- may be completely destroyed.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1892 Jan 15 pp.21-23
“… the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) p.101
144,000 Resurrected to Heaven
The 144,000, also known as the “body of Christ” or “the saints”, were to all be in heaven by 1914, prior to the completion of Armageddon.
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place some time before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time… Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed;…” Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come (1908 ed.) p.228
“There were also other expectations concerning 1914. Alexander H. Macmillan, who had been baptized in September 1900, later recalled: “A few of us seriously thought we were going to heaven during the first week of that October. In fact, recalling the morning that Russell announced the end of the Gentile Times, MacMillan admitted: “We were highly excited and I would not have been surprised if at that moment we had just started up, that becoming the signal to begin ascending heavenward-but of course there was nothing like that.”” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom pp.61-62
“As October 1914 approached, some of the Bible Students expected that at the end of the Gentile Times they, as spirit-anointed Christians, would receive their heavenly reward. Illustrating this is an incident that took place at a convention of the Bible Students in Saratoga Spring, New York, September 27-30, 1914. A. H.Macmillan, who had been baptized 14 years earlier, gave a discourse on Wednesday, September 30. In it he stated: ” This is probably the last public address I shall ever deliver, because we shall be going home [to heaven] soon.”” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.62
Jesus to start ruling the earth
SETTING UP THE EARTHLY GOVERNMENT —- Not until the full end of Gentile Times (October, A.D. 1914) should we expect the earthly phase of God’s Kingdom; for in giving a lease of dominion to the Gentiles until that date God made no mistake and his plans alter not. The earthly phase of the Kingdom of God when set up will be Israelitish; for such is God’s engagement or covenant with Abraham and his natural seed. Even the chief favor, the spiritual Kingdom, was offered first to fleshly Israel, and would have been given to them if they had been ready at heart to receive it on the conditions attached to it, – to suffer with Christ and afterward to be glorified with him.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance pp.624,625
The end of the harvest was to be followed by both the heavenly and earthly paradise.
“When this is fully accomplished, as it must be within this harvest period, then will follow the resurrection of the ancient worthies, then the kingdom of God, in both its heavenly and earthly phases, will be established and manifested to the world, – an event due at the close of this harvest period and time of trouble.” Watchtower 1895 May 15 p.123-124 reprints 1816
Earthly Resurrection to occur
“And yet “Jerusalem must be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled;” hence, trodden down until A. D. 1914, when the day of wrath will be passed, and the resurrection and return of the “whole house of Israel” due.” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) pp.165-166
“The beginning of the earthly phase of the Kingdom in the end of A.D. 1914 will, we understand, consist wholly of the resurrected holy ones of olden time-from John the Baptizer back to Abel-“Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the holy prophets.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance p.625
The Time is At Hand – 7 (Unfulfilled) Expectations
The Time Is at Hand (1889) pages 76 to 78 claimed seven things would happen in 1914. Not one of these eventuated. The following statements are extracted from that list;
1. “the disintegration of the rule of imperfect men. Firstly, That at that date the Kingdom of God, for which our Lord taught us to pray, saying, “Thy Kingdom come,” will begin to assume control, and that it will then shortly be “set up,” or firmly established, in the earth, on the ruins of present institutions.” 2. He whose right it is thus to take the dominion will then be present as earth’s new Ruler; and not only so, but it will also prove that he will be present for a considerable period before that date; 3. the last member of the divinely recognized Church of Christ, the “royal priesthood,” “the body of Christ,” will beglorified with the Head; 4. Jerusalem shall no longer be trodden down 5. Israel’s blindness will begin to be turned away 6. the great “time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation,” will reach its culmination in a world-wide reign of anarchy 7. It will prove that before that date God’s Kingdom, organized in power, will be in the earth and then smite and crush the Gentile image (Dan. 2:34)-and fully consume the power of these kings.” Studies In the Scriptures Series II – The Time Is at Hand (1889) pp.76-78
Proof or Not?
Watchtower presented its conclusions as undeniable. Closer to the date, there was some back pedalling, saying the conclusions are not positive, but based on evidence and proof.
“We do not know positively that the month of October, 1914, will see the church all glorified, and the time of trouble ushered in. We merely say, Here are the evidences. Here are the proofs. Look at them for yourself and see what you then think. It is for each to accept or reject the facts.” Watch Tower 1913 Oct 15 p308-309 reprints 5329
Was Watchtower, or was it not, presenting it was positive about its predictions for 1914? What were followers supposed to think when words like proof, facts and evidence were used? Russell was messing with minds – “We do not know positively”, but are you brave enough to “reject the facts?”
Studies in the Scriptures – Editions after 1914
Editions of Studies in the Scriptures written prior to 1914 were very specific about what would happen prior to and during 1914. These journals continued to be used after 1914. To overcome the obviously erroneous predictions, in 1915 they were reissued with amendments.
For example, prior to 1914, editions of Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come stated on p.228 that the resurrection would occur before 1914. From the 1915 edition onwards, this was changed to state that the resurrection was to occur soon after 1914.
Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come pre 1914
Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come post 1914 editions
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place some time before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah’s Anointed. Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished. With these two thought in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.” Click here for scan of 1911 edition
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place very soon after 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah’s Anointed. Just how long after 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished.” Click here for scan of 1923 edition
Instead of being slated to “end in October 1914”, rewrites claimed (still erroneously) that Armageddon was to “end very shortly” and “very soon after”.
Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance pp.546,547 1911 edition compared to 1927 edition
“CHANGES IN “SCRIPTURE STUDIES” We call attention to a few slight changes which have been made in four pages of Vol. II. and six pages of Vol. III., “STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES.” These are all trivial and do not alter the real sense and lesson, but conform to the facts as we have them today. The pages containing these corrections are as follows: Vol. II., page 77, line 1, “will be the farthest limit,” reads “will see the disintegration.” Vol. II., page 77, line 6, “will obtain full universal control,” reads “will begin to assume control.” Vol. II., page 77, lines 16,17, “end of A.D. 1914,” reads “end of the overthrow.” Vol. II., page 81, line 9, “can date only from A.D. 1914,” reads “could not precede A.D. 1915.” Vol. II., page 170, line 16, “at that time they will all be overturned.”* *How long it will require to accomplish this overturning we are not informed, but have reason to believe the period will be short. Vol. II., page 221, line 25, “full favor until A.D. 1914,” reads “full favor until after 1915.” Vol. III., page 94, line 29, “in this end or harvest,” reads “at the end of this harvest.” Vol. III., page 126, line 12, “at A.D. 1914,” reads “after 1914.” Vol. III., page 133, line 21, “ere the harvest is fully ended.”+ +The end of the harvest will probably include the burning of the tares. Vol. III., page 228, line 11, “some time before 1914,” reads “very soon after 1914.” Vol. III., page 228, line 15, “just how long before,” reads “just how long after.” Vol. III., page 362, line 11, “some time before,” reads “some time near.” Vol. III., page 364, line 14, “must not only witness,” reads “may not only witness.”” Watch Tower 1915 Mar 1 (reprints 5649)
Watchtower’s Dishonest Presentation of its’ History
Watchtower claims its foresight of 1914 as proof of Jehovah’s direction. Is this justified, knowing the Watchtower was incorrect in virtually every aspect?
The following quotes show the positive spin the Watchtower puts on Russell’s inaccurate teachings, in an attempt to make people believe holy spirit directs Watchtower interpretation of Bible prophecy. These quotes range from misleading but technically true, through to blatantly false. Phrases stating Watchtower foretold 1914 to be the end of the Gentile Times are strictly accurate, but lead the reader to the incorrect conclusion that the expectations for what would occur were accurate. Statements abound that Watchtower pointed forward to 1914 as “the start of “the conclusion of the system of things,”” the start of “Jesus Presence,” or the start of his “rulership.”
When reading these quotes, it is important to remember that in 1914 the Watchtower was teaching Jesus’ presence began in 1874 and his heavenly rulership began in 1878.
“Our belief that the Kingdom began to be setup, or brought into power, in April, 1878, be it observed, rests on exactly the same foundation as our belief that the Lord became present in October, 1874, and that the harvest began at that time.” Studies in the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come p.235
As late as 1930, the Watchtower was still referring to 1874 as the start of Jesus presence.
“… from the beginning of the Lord’s presence in 1874 the Devil used the Papal system as the chief opposing instrument of God’s kingdom …” Watch Tower 1930 Sep 15 p.275
Those in Watchtower’s writing department are well aware of the organisation’s history. For instance, the 1993 Proclaimers book states:
“Based on the premise that events of the first century might find parallels in related events later, they also concluded that if Jesus’ baptism and anointing in the autumn of 29 C.E. paralleled the beginning of an invisible presence in 1874, then his riding into Jerusalem as King in the spring of 33 C.E. would point to the spring of 1878 as the time when he would assume his power as heavenly King.” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.632
Yet in that very same year, Watchtower articles falsely claim:
“The Watchtower[1] has consistently presented evidence to honest hearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914. Events since that year testify to Jesus’ invisible presence.” Watchtower 1993 Jan 15 p.5
“Jehovah’s Witnesses have consistently shown from the Scriptures that the year 1914 marked the beginning of this world’s time of the end and that “the day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men” has drawn near.” Watchtower 1993 Aug 15 p.9
The following examples of untruthful Watchtower statements regarding its teachings prior to 1914 span decades, and the leadership of numerous Presidents and Governing Body members, showing that manipulation through deception is systemic to how Watchtower leaders control Jehovah’s Witness members.
“Decades before 1914, Jehovah’s worshippers declared to the nations that the end of “the appointed times of the nations” would come in that year and that the world would enter into an unequaled period of trouble.” Watchtower 2013 Feb 15 p.18
“As that “time” approached, Jehovah took steps to reveal the answer to a group of humble Bible students. With the help of God’s spirit, they discerned that “the appointed times of the nations” began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. and that those “times” were 2,520 years in length. From this, they deduced that 1914 marked the end of “the appointed times of the nations.” They also came to realize that 1914 was the beginning of the end for this system of things.” Watchtower 2004 Feb 1 p.19
“… a prophecy providentially caused sincere 19th-century Bible students to be in expectation. By linking the “seven times” of Daniel 4:25 with “the times of the Gentiles”, they anticipated that Christ would receive Kingdom power in 1914.” Watchtower 1998 Sep 15 p.15
“Back in 1904, the book The New Creation called attention to this new organization that came into existence in the first century C.E. (Studies In The Scriptures, Series VI, Study V, entitled “The Organization of the New Creation”) Owing to its view of what the end of the Gentile Times would mean, that book did not envision the remarkable organizational work that was due to take place after the crippling effects of the first world war of human history.” Watchtower 1989 Sep 1 pp.12-13
“As far back as 1876, Jehovah’s Witnesses realized that Bible prophecy marked the year 1914 C.E. as a time when major events would take place that would have far-reaching effects on human affairs. They gave the reason for this fact wide publicity.” True Peace And Security (1986) p.70
“How did Jehovah’s Witnesses know more than 30 years in advance that 1914 would be an important date for divine rulership? Though the Witnesses at the time did not understand the full implication of events about to take place, the Watch Tower magazine as far back as December of 1879 pointed to 1914 as a marked date in regard to Bible prophecy. And the Mar 1880 issue of the Watch Tower linked God’s Kingdom rule with the ending of what Jesus Christ referred to as “the appointed times of the nations,” or “the times of the Gentiles.” (Luke 21:24; Authorized Version) That Watch Tower said: “‘The Times of the Gentiles’ extend to 1914, and the heavenly kingdom will not have full sway till then.”” Watchtower 1984 Apr 1 p.6 1914 a Marked Year-Why?
“Even earlier, however, C. T. Russell wrote an article entitled “Gentile Times: When Do They End?” It was published in the Bible Examiner of October 1876, and therein Russell said: “The seven times will end in A.D. 1914.” He had correctly linked the Gentile Times with the “seven times” mentioned in the book of Daniel. (Dan. 4:16, 23, 25, 32) True to such calculations, 1914 did mark the end of those times and the birth of God’s kingdom in heaven with Christ Jesus as king. Just think of it! Jehovah granted his people that knowledge nearly four decades before those times expired.” Yearbook 1975 p.37
“This remnant of anointed ones have identified themselves on the pages of history since 1914 C.E. Before this year members of this anointed remnant had been earnestly studying God’ s Word apart from Christendom. They put the Holy Bible ahead of man-made religious traditions. As early as 1876 they were publishing that the Gentile Times of 2,520 years would terminate in the year 1914. Events that have taken place from that year onward prove they were not wrong.” God’s Eternal Purpose Now Triumphing For Man’s Good (1974) pp.178-179
“Of all men used by God to prophesy, Jesus is outstanding. Based on what he said, along with the words of Daniel and John, Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to the year 1914, decades in advance, as marking the start of “the conclusion of the system of things.” Awake! 1973 Jan 22 p.8
“When in 1914 C.E. the 2,520 years of the Gentile Times ended for the Gentile nations to trample on Jerusalem’s right to a Messianic kingship in the royal line of David, the Most High God Jehovah installed the Messiah Jesus on the heavenly throne in order to reign and go subduing among his enemies. (Psalm 110:1-6; Acts 2:34-36; Hebrews 10:12, 13) During World War I (1914-1918 C.E.) the dedicated, baptized remnant of spiritual Israelites publicly proclaimed that the Gentile Times had ended and that the Most High God had made his Son Jesus Christ reigning King in the heavens.” Paradise Restored to Mankind – By Theocracy! (1972) p.273
“For over thirty years before that date and for half a century since, Jehovah’s witnesses have pointed to the year 1914 as the time for the end of “the appointed times of the nations” and the time in which Christ would begin his Kingdom rule. (Luke 21:24)” Watchtower 1966 Feb 15 p.103
“His rule would be from the heavens. This was a new revelation of great importance to God’s people who had been anxiously awaiting his second presence toward the end of the nineteenth century. The truth that 1914 marked the end of the “times of the nations” that started in 607 B.C. and the beginning of the “time of the end” for the nations and hence the beginning of his presence, was new knowledge over which God’s people could rejoice.” Watchtower 1965 Jul 15 p.428
“Why, then, do the nations not realize and accept the approach of this climax of judgment? It is because they have not heeded the world wide advertising of Christ’s return and his second Presence. Since long before World War I Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to 1914 as the time for this great event to occur.” Watchtower 1954 Jun 15 p.370
“As for the time of Christ’s second presence, Daniel’s prophecy is again the one that gives the chronology for it. (Dan. 4:16) It was figured out as pointing to A.D. 1914, and The Watchtower called notice to the significance of 1914 in the year 1879.” Watchtower 1952 Nov 1 p.658
“Under the guidance of God’s spirit of freedom the magazine today known as The Watchtower but known back there as Zion’s Watch Tower, began to be published in Jul, 1879. In the first year of its publication it pointed to the date 1914 as marked in the Bible.” What Has Religion Done For Mankind? (1951) p.308
It is disappointing to learn that your religion incorrectly predicted the end would occur in 1914, as it shows it is directed by humans and not God. To find that the leaders continue to lie about what was said is more disturbing, as it shows the leaders actively colluded to deceive and manipulate their followers.
Reality Check
The only aspect of Russell’s 1914 prediction to remain is the term “end of the Gentile times.” Though the term is still in use, the meaning has greatly changed. Before 1914, this meant that earthly governments would end in total destruction and false religion would be overturned, heralding God’s kingdom on earth. Now it simply means that Jesus is ruling in heaven, a handy concept as it is invisible, unnoticed, and unfalsifiable.
It is interesting that Russell’s incorrect understanding of 1914 had a huge weight of Scriptural prophecy to support it. Some of the reasoning was as follows:
The 1260 days prophecy pointed to 1799 as the last days
The 2300 day prophecy pointed to 1844
The 1335 day prophecy, end of the 6000 years and jubilee cycles all pointed to 1874 as the beginning of Jesus presence
From the above prophecies 1914 could be determined because:
1914 was a 40 year Jewish harvest from 1874.
It was a 70 year generation from 1844.
It was indicated by the prophecy of the seven times
40 years from 1874 to 1914 corresponds to 40 years from Jesus baptism in 30 A.D. to Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 A.D.
36 ½ years from 1878 to 1914 corresponded to 36 ½ years of trouble from Jesus death to the Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 A.D.
Each of these lines of reasoning are now explained as wrong by Watchtower, and few Jehovah’s Witnesses are even aware of the huge importance placed on 1874 for over 50 years.
Russell stated in Zion’s Watch Tower 1892 Jan 1 p.22 that “never was there such a general time of banding together as at present.” Yet all this weight of evidence that the 1800’s were the “last days” has since been discarded. Today, only one prophecy is used to specifically point to 1914 as the start of Jesus presence; that is, the Seven Times. The other scriptural proofs are now considered to have been wrong.
As impressive as Russell’s reasoning looks, it was progressively changed as one prediction after another failed to eventuate. Russell originally wrote that the Bible Students ascension to heaven and the fall of Babylon were to happen in years prior to 1914. 1914 was just the date when the Gentile times would end and paradise be established on earth. As his predictions failed to eventuate these occurrences were moved to 1914. Russell was clearly wrong when not one of these had occurred by the end of 1914.
In addition to his predictions being wrong, Russell was unsure whether to use the year 1914 or 1915. As shown later, he did not know how to deal the year zero when calculating prophecy, and so fluctuated between saying the end would arrive in 1914 or 1915.
As 1914 came closer Russell’s writings became less confident that his predictions were correct and started hedging his comments. Where as in 1892 the Jan 15 p.23 Zion’s Watch Tower used the term “definitely marked in Scripture” Russell started to use terms like “possibly shortly after”, and “not infallible”. Bible Students started to be prepared for failure.
“We shall be as glad as any one if we shall all experience our change from earthly to spirit conditions before 1915, and and this is our expectation; but if this should not be the Lord’s will, then it would not be our will. So far as we have been able to see up to the present time, the failure of a full development of matters in 1915, or before, would imply that all the chronological arrangements, as we have them, are wrong–our view of the Harvest and all. And we have no reason to believe that these are wrong. We remember that we are not infallible, and that our judgment is not infallible; but the wonderful inventions of today, and the light that is dawning in every direction, as well as the universal unrest, seem in corroboration of the chronology–that we are in the dawning of the New Age. But just how far along we are we do not positively know.” Watch Tower 1914 Jan 1 p.5 (reprints 5374)
When Jesus earthly kingdom did not eventuate in 1914, Watchtower publications began to promote 1915. When 1915 amounted to nothing, the entire meaning of all Russell’s prophetic interpretation required rewriting. It took until 1943[2] for the new understanding to finally be clarified.
“In the year 1943 the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society published the book “The Truth Shall Make You Free.” … This moved forward the end of six thousand years of man’s existence into the decade of the 1970’s. Naturally this did away with the year 1874 C.E. as the date of return of the Lord Jesus Christ and the beginning of his invisible presence or parousia. … Page 324 of the above book positively says: “The King’s presence or parousia began in 1914.”” God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached pp.209-210
Why has the Watchtower Society discontinued its belief in all their original date interpretations but retained 1914? The occurrence of World War One appeared to give 1914 historical significance whilst none are able to be attached to any of the other 20 or so dates promoted. However, the Watchtower explanation of the prophecy of the Seven Times is examined and shown to be based on historical errors and inconsistent reasoning, leaving no reason to say that 1914 is of any relevance to us today.
Blame the Members
As soon as proven wrong about 1914, Russell went into damage control, dishonestly rewriting history. Reading through the older publications, it is evident how forcefully the predictions for 1914 were presented as truth. Russell began claiming his teachings were nothing more than inference.
“We did not say positively that this would be the year. We merely left every one to look at the facts of history and reckon for himself. … But would it be a reasonable expectation that the Gentile Kingdoms would be snuffed out inside of an hour or inside of a day? … We do not think that any would have been justified in so thinking. If any had such expectation, it was unwarranted.” Watch Tower 1914 Nov 1 pp.325-326 reprints p.5565
Even more unsavoury is the manner in which Russell attacked the motives of those that stopped being his followers.
“If there is any reason that would lead any to let go of the Lord and His Truth and to cease sacrificing for the Lord’s Cause, then it is not merely the love of God in the heart which has prompted interest in the Lord, but something else; probably a hoping that the time was short; the consecration was only for a certain time. If so, now is a good time to let go.” Watch Tower 1914 Nov 1 reprints p.5570
“The present is a time of testing, we believe, to many of the Lord’s people. Have we in the past been active merely because we hoped for our glorious change in A.D. 1914, or have we been active because of our love and loyalty to the Lord and his message and the brethren!” Watch Tower 1915 Mar 1 reprints p.5649
Those that stopped following Russell did so because they came to the conclusion he was a charlatan. They did not “let go of the Lord”, but rather came to realise that Russell and his interpretations could not be trusted. It is of extreme arrogance for Russell to equate those that stopped following his failed teachings with leaving the Lord, and of impure motives, and it is of little wonder that many came to recognise him as a false teacher.
Rutherford continued with this strategy of blaming members for their enthusiasm in accepting Watchtower information as truth.
“It seems to be a weakness of many Bible Students that if they locate a future date in the Bible, immediately they center as many prophecies upon that date as possible. This has been the cause of many siftings in the past. As far as we recall, all the dates foreseen were correct. The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, there were inclined to throw away everything. … Many can remember how “absolutely sure” some were about 1914. No doubt the Lord was pleased with the zeal manifested by his servants; but did they have a Scriptural basis for all they expected to come to pass that year? Let us be cautious, therefore about predicting particulars.” Watch Tower 1925 Feb 15 p.57
It is disappointing to note Watchtower continues being critical of these individuals in the early 1900’s, rather than lay blame where it squarely belongs, on Watchtower leaders.
“Tom: You stated earlier that Pastor Russell was not too certain as to exactly what would take place in 1914. Was that the general attitude of the Witnesses at that time?
John: There is no doubt that many throughout this period were overzealous in their statements as to what could be expected. Some read into the Watch Tower statements that were never intended, and while it was necessary for Russell to call attention to the certainty that a great change was due at the end of the Gentile times, he still encouraged his readers to keep an open mind, especially as regards the time element.” Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Divine Purpose p.52
Watchtower blames those who believed they were going to heaven on misunderstanding the message and labels those that stop following the Watchtower leaders as having been serving out of wrong motives.
“Disappointed expectations as to the return of the Lord Jesus had in the 19th century caused many followers of William Miller and various Adventist groups to lose faith. But what about the Bible Students associated with Russell? Had some been attracted by the thought of their own early salvation rather than love for God and a strong desire to do his will?” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.62
“Their thoughts and desires had been fixed primarily on the prospect of being changed to heavenly life. When this did not occur at the anticipated time, they closed their minds to the significance of the amazing things that did take place in 1914. They lost sight of all the precious truths that they had learned from God’s Word, and they began to ridicule the people who had helped them to learn these.” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.636
This is such a conceited comment. Bible Students were attracted to Russell’s message because they thought it was truth, and when he was proven to be a fraud they stopped following him. If some believed in a resurrection prior to Russell, whilst following Russell’s teachings, and after they ceased to believe his interpretations, it is irrelevant whether they hoped the resurrection would come “early.” At least, they were honest enough to admit they had been deceived.
The Yearbook 2014 discusses how some members carried a countdown card that ended with the date 1st October 1914. It avoids mentioning the Watchtower’s responsibility for such expectations.
“Some Bible Students even carried a countdown card so that they could mark off each passing day. Many felt that they would be called beyond the veil, or to heaven, on that date.” Yearbook 2014 p.174
This is a common Watchtower formula; blame the members. Rather then apologise for error, say the followers were overzealous, misunderstood things or read into things. As prior quotes showed, this is just not true. The statements flowed unendingly, “this is an established truth”, there is “proof”, these things “will” occur. It was spelled out so clearly there was no need for the members to read in what was not intended.
Possibly worse is that these mistakes are also handed off to be the fault of the Lord. Rather than admit he had spent decades misleading people, Russell passes blame to the Lord for overruling these lies and false prophecies.
“The author acknowledges that in this book he presents the thought that the Lord’s saints might expect to be with Him in glory at the ending of the Gentile Times. This was a natural mistake to fall into, but the Lord overruled it for the blessing of His people.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is At Hand 1916 foreword iv
The 1916 foreword to The Time is At Hand introduced the comment that the book “makes no claim to infallibility”.
“This Volume makes no claim to infallibility, and no claim of any direct inspiration from God in the interpretation of His Word. On the contrary, it does claim that the Divine Revelation is the Bible. Its endeavour has been to collate the Bible evidences to offer suggestions in respect to the significance.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is At Hand 1916 foreword i
Russell had attracted thousands of convinced followers with statements that his interpretations were beyond doubt, and then when proven wrong excused this deception by adding a simple foreword that he never claimed to be infallible.
The Governing Body continues to use this strategy to great effect,
“The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or in organizational direction.” Watchtower 2017 Feb p.26
The Governing body take this concept even further than intended by Russell, by demanding absolute allegiance to their interpretation as spirit directed truth, then allowing an escape route by claiming they are not inspired. This is disingenuous, as being directed by holy spirit is the same as being inspired.
Carl Sagan regarding Watchtower predictions
Carl Sagan made an important observation regarding a “prominent American religion [which] confidently predicted that the world would end in 1914.” Whilst not naming the religion, there is little doubt who he was referring to. He is not at all flattering about people that choose to accept the reasoning for why the world did not end as expected then, and continue to follow such evasive religious leaders.
“Doctrines that make no predictions are less compelling than those which make correct predictions; they are in turn more successful than doctrines that make false predictions.
But not always. One prominent American religion confidently predicted that the world would end in 1914. Well, 1914 has come and gone, and — while the events of that year were certainly of some importance — the world does not, at least so far as I can see, seem to have ended. There are at least three responses that an organized religion can make in the face of such a failed and fundamental prophecy. They could have said, “Oh, did we say ‘1914’? So sorry, we meant ‘2014.’ A slight error in calculation. Hope you weren’t inconvenienced in any way.” But they did not. They could have said, “Well, the world would have ended, except we prayed very hard and interceded with God so He spared the Earth.” But they did not. Instead, they did something much more ingenious.
They announced that the world had in fact ended in 1914, and if the rest of us hadn’t noticed, that was our lookout. It is astonishing in the face of such transparent evasions that this religion has any adherents at all. But religions are tough. Either they make no contentions which are subject to disproof or they quickly redesign doctrine after disproof. The fact that religions can be so shamelessly dishonest, so contemptuous of the intelligence of their adherents, and still flourish does not speak very well for the tough-mindedness of the believers. But it does indicate, if a demonstration were needed, that near the core of the religious experience is something remarkably resistant to rational inquiry.”
Broca’s Brain, Carl Sagan (New York: Ballantine Books, 1979, pp. 332-33)
Conclusion
The stream of time has proven all Watchtower predicted for 1914 wrong, either by it changing its doctrine on specific points, or definitive predictions not occurring. Yet, Watchtower boasts about this part of its history, choosing to gloat over its remarkable foresight that the Gentile Times would end in 1914.
“Very noteworthy was the striking accuracy with which that book pointed to the end of the Gentile Times, “the appointed times of the nations.”” Yearbook 1975 p.37
The end of the Gentile times are a vague and unverifiable concept, and it cannot be proven they ended in 1914, making it hardly noteworthy that a prediction was made that cannot be proven or disproven. Likewise, it cannot be proven that Jesus started ruling in 1914, as the Watchtower describes this as an unseen event. What is noteworthy that the verifiable predictions Watchtower made for 1914, such as the end of religion, the end of government, and the earthly resurrection, all failed to eventuate.
Russell was not guided by Jehovah to uniquely understand Daniel’s prophecy of the Seven Times; he took his interpretation from Adventists such as Barbour. His interpretation was wrong, as he adamantly stated that 1914 would be “the final end” of this system of things. Watchtower has not presented a consistent understanding of 1914 and the current interpretation was not finalised until 1943.
Watchtower spent decades promoting its most prominent doctrine that the end would occur in 1914. Should a person trust Watchtower when it was proven so dramatically wrong? Can a person trust it when it continues to resort to deception when presenting its history? How can a person belong to an organization that refuses to accept responsibility for its mistakes, passing the blame to its faithful followers?
The admonition from Paul at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 is apt.
“However, brothers, respecting the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we request of YOU not to be quickly shaken from YOUR reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us, to the effect that the day of Jehovah is here.”
“Knowing these things, what will you do? It is obvious that the true God, who is himself “the God of truth” and who hates lies, will not look with favor on persons who cling to organizations that teach falsehood. (Psalm 31:5; Proverbs 6:16-19; Revelation 21:8) And, really, would you want to be even associated with a religion that had not been honest with you?”
[1] Some Watchtower apologists may try to reason that the Jan 15 1993 quote is accurate, since The Watchtower only took that title since October 15 1931, by which time Jesus presence had been moved to 1914. Any false statements regarding 1874 had appeared when the magazine was called The Watch Tower. If that truly was the writers intend, it must be seen as deliberately misleading. Nor it is a fair comment, since The Watchtower refers to its older magazines collectively as The Watchtower. For instance The Watchtower 1936 p.382 says “It was about that date [1879] that the second presence of the Lord began to be considered in the pages of The Watchtower, which since then until now has been the means of communicating truth to those who love the Lord.”
[2]God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached p.209 states the understanding of 1874 changed in 1943. Although 1874 ceased being a millennium marker in 1943, the reasoning that changing “the six thousand years … did away with the year 1874 C.E. as the date of return of the Lord Jesus Christ” is quite dishonest, since 1874 had already been changed to 1914 in 1930.
In the 1920’s, Watchtower was still teaching that Jesus presence started in 1874.
“Bible prophecy shows that the Lord was due to appear for the second time in the year 1874. Fulfilled prophecy shows beyond a doubt that he did appear in 1874. Fulfilled prophecy is otherwise designated the physical facts; and these facts are indisputable.” Watch Tower 1922 Nov 1 p.333
“The Scriptural proof is that the second presence of the Lord Jesus Christ began in 1874 A.D. This proof … ” Prophecy 1929 pp.65,66
Golden Age 1930 Apr 30 first indicated that Jesus arrival was 1914. (“The end of the world would therefore mean the arriving of the time when Satan’s rule would be disputed by Christ, whose right it is to rule. That period of 2520 years ended in the fall of 1914.” p.505) This was discussed again in the 1931 booklet, The Kingdom, the Hope of The World and then the Watchtower in 1932.
What is Truth? made clear that the Second Coming had shifted to 1914.
“The prophecy of the Bible, fully supported by the physical facts in fulfilment thereof, shows that the second coming of Christ dates from the fall of the year 1914.” What is Truth? (1932) p.48
This was clarified in the 1933 Watchtower.
“The year 1914, therefore, marks the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King of glory.” Watchtower 1933 Dec 1 p.362
The following poster incorporates quotes from Studies in the Scriptures – The Battle of Armageddon (1897) with images from The Photo Drama of Creation (1914), concisely depicting that despite the doomsday similarities with current teachings, Watchtower prophetic interpretation was a complete failure.
Source of image: cs.jw.poster@gmail.com
The following video presents discussion from the Aug 2009 Watchtower. Most interesting are the comments at 2:30 minutes.
Scanned copies of Studies in the Scriptures and other historical Watchtower publications are linked to for free from Classic Watchtower Publications. If you are a JW today and you believe your Watchtower’s teachings you soul is in danger. Without believing in the true resurrection of Christ’s body the word of God makes is very clear you are still in your sins and the door to hell is upon you. No one can enter into the Fathers house who doesn’t believe in the resurrection of our Lord and savior. Below you will find a host of information your JW organization doesn’t want you to see. Keep in mind, you can check everyone of the example below because they all came from your own organization teachings.
1914 : Failed Watchtower Prophecy
One of the most misleading statements in Watchtower publications is that they accurately foretold 1914 to be the “start” of the conclusion of this system of things. Rather, Watchtower falsely predicted 1914 to be the “end” of the system of things, the conclusion of Armageddon and the start of the earthly paradise.
It is important to know what Watchtower preached would happen in the years leading up to and including 1914, and compare this with what it now claims was said.
What Watchtower said prior to 1914
What Watchtower claims it said prior to 1914
“The year A.D. 1878 … clearly marks the time for the actual assuming of power as King of kings, by our present, spiritual, invisible Lord – …” The Time is At Hand (1911 ed) p.239
“The Watchtower has consistently presented evidence to honesthearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914.” Watchtower 1993 Jan 15 p.5
“But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble. Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226
“Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to the year 1914, decades in advance, as marking the start of “the conclusion of the system of things.” Awake! 1973 Jan 22 p.8
The contradictory statements above help identify two critical facts:
Watchtower falsely predicted this system would end in 1914
Watchtower is not entirely honest about its history
Governing Body member Samuel Herd makes the statement in Watchtower’s 2016 documentary The Kingdom 100 Years and Counting;
“At the kingdom’s birth in 1914, the Bible Students were not exactly sure what was going to happen, but they knew it would be a pivotal year.”
This is a fabrication, as Watchtower was dogmatic as to exactly what was going to occur in 1914. Expectations for 1914 were forcefully presented as fact, as shown in the following quotes.
The early followers were as convinced they knew what was going to happen in 1914 as current followers are convinced the Great Tribulation and Armageddon will come at any moment, resulting in the destruction of all worldly people. This is because the same manipulative terminology used prior to 1914 is still used in Watchtower publications to this day.
1914 is the pivotal date for the existence of Jehovah’s Witnesses, currently explained as the date:
the Gentile times ended
Jesus started ruling in heaven
the Last Days began
1914 is the basis for the interpretation of the majority of other Bible prophecies. Most importantly, this was the time during which Jesus is said to have come to inspect and cleanse the Watchtower Society, resulting in Jesus choosing it in 1919 to be the only organization he works though in our time, and the only means of salvation.
The current understanding is significantly different to the original teachings. Prior to 1914, the Watchtower believed:
The Last Days began 1799
Jesus Parousia started 1874
Jesus started ruling in heaven in 1878
The Gentile Times would end in 1914, resulting in the:
end of Armageddon
fall of false religion
end of all earthly governments
heavenly and earthly resurrections
paradise on earth
The 1914 doctrine has changed by necessity, and continued to change in the twenty first century, as it has been falsified by the progression of history. It has progressed from:
The last days started in 1799, ending in 1914.
The last days started in 1914, ending within a single lifetime/generation of those born prior to 1914.
The last days started in 1914, with an unspecified ending, after a period of an “overlapping generation.”
The ability of the Watchtower to accurately foretell the meaning of 1914 is a great source of faith for Jehovah’s Witnesses, unaware of what Watchtower said prior to 1914. Nothing Russell said about 1914 came to pass. For Russell and early Watchtower followers, the 2nd of October 1914 was expected to be the the conclusion of this system of things.
“Quite a few delegates stayed at Bethel, and, of course, members of the headquarters staff were present at the breakfast table on Friday morning, October 2. Everyone was seated when Brother Russell entered. As usual, he said cheerily, “Good morning, all.” But this particular morning was different. Instead of proceeding promptly to his seat, he clapped his hands and joyfully announced: “The Gentile times have ended; their kings have had their day.” “How we clapped our hands!” exclaims Cora Merrill. Brother Macmillan admitted: “We were highly excited and I would not have been surprised if at that moment we had just started up, that becoming the signal to begin ascending heavenward—but of course there was nothing like that, really.” Sister Merrill adds: “After a brief pause he [Russell] said: ‘Anyone disappointed? I’m not. Everything is moving right on schedule!’ Again we clapped our hands.”” Yearbook 1975 pp.72,73
The expectation was 1914 would see the final end of worldly kingdoms, replaced by God’s Kingdom fully established on earth.
“In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished by the end of A.D. 1914.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is at Hand (1889) 1911 ed. p.99
From the 1911 edition forward, this quote gave an additional year for these events to be fully accomplished, extending to A.D.1915.
The Time is at Hand (1889 ed.) p.99 The Time is at Hand (1911 ed.) p.99
Watchtower quotes prior to 1914
Russell taught that Jesus invisible presence began in 1874 and rulership in 1878.
“Our Lord, the appointed King, is now present since October 1874, A.D., according to the testimony of the prophets, to those who have ears to hear it: and the formal inauguration of his kingly office dates from April 1878, A.D.:” Studies in Scriptures Series – The Day of Vengeance (1897) p.621
The heavenly kingdom was shown Scripturally to begin before the end of the Gentile Times.
“But the kingdom of God is to be set up before the days of the Gentile end, for “in the days of theses kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom; and it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms” (Dan. 2:44).”” Three Worlds and the Harvest of This World (Barbour & Russell, 1877) p.27
Prior to forming the Watchtower, Russell wrote that 1914 would see the end of all governments.
“… the seven times will end in A.D. 1914; when Jerusalem shall be delivered forever, and the Jew say of the Deliverer, “Lo, this is our God, we have waited for Him and He will save us.” When Gentile Governments shall have been dashed to pieces; when God shall have poured out of his fury upon the nation, and they acknowledge him, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Bible Examiner C. T. Russell Oct 1876
Russell originally was a follower of the teachings of Barbour, and together they co-authored works such as the 1877 book Three Worlds, and the Harvest of This World. After splitting from Barbour in June 1879, Russell began publishing the magazine Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence in July 1879. This became distinctly his own religion with the incorporation of the organization “Zion’s Watch Tower Tract Society” shortly thereafter. Russell continued to publish many of the prophetic interpretations he had received from Barbour, as can be seen in what follows when comparing Three Worlds and Watchtower quotes.
1874 to 1914 were described as the greatest period of trouble in human history, the period of Armageddon itself, with the end of trouble to be in 1914.
“Now, in view of recent labor troubles and threatened anarchy, our readers are writing to know if there may not be a mistake in the 1914 date. They do not see how present conditions can hold out so long under the strain. We see no reason for changing the figures – nor could we change them if we would. They are, we believe, God’s dates, not ours. But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226 (reprints 1677)
The following quotes during the lead up to 1914 show there could be no doubt as to what Watchtower followers expected. The end of the Last Days in 1914 was to initiate a number of endings and new beginnings.
1914 – the end of the preaching work
1914 – the end of all religion
1914 – the wholesale destruction of all government
1914 – the end of the Great Tribulation
1914 – the end of Armageddon
1914 – Russell and his followers to be raised to heaven
1914 – Jesus’ Kingdom established as paradise on earth
1914 – commencement of the earthly resurrection
The following Watchtower quotes are just a small selection that highlight how they promoted these assertions.
“The seventh trumpet sounds from Aug. 1840, until “the time of trouble,” or day of wrath is ended. Hence, it doubtless ends with the times of the Gentiles, and this forty years of conquest; and therefore, sounds until A. D. 1914; at the end of which, Babylon the great, will have fallen, and the “dragon” be bound: that is, the nations will be subdued, and “the prince of this world cast out.”” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) p.143
“A.D. 33, to A.D. 70 was 36 ½ years; and so from A.D. 1878 to the end of A.D. 1914 is 36 ½ years. And, with the end of A.D. 1914, what God calls Babylon, and what men call Christendom, will have passed away, as already shown in prophecy.” Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come (1891) p.153
“True, it is expecting great things to claim, as we do, that within the coming twenty-six years all present governments will be overthrown and dissolved; but we are living in a special and peculiar time, the “Day of Jehovah,”…
In view of this strong Bible evidence concerning the Times of the Gentiles, we consider it an established truth that the final end of the kingdoms of this world, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God, will be accomplished at the end of A. D. 1914.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) pp.98-99
“Be not surprised, then, when in subsequent chapters we present proofs that the setting up of the Kingdom of God is already begun, that it is pointed out in prophecy as due to begin the exercise of power in A.D. 1878, and that the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced. The gathering of the armies is plainly visible from the standpoint of God’s Word.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) p.101
End of the “Time of Trouble” (Great Tribulation)
Barbour and Russell published that the time of trouble would end in 1914, a teaching Russell continued to promote in Zion’s Watch Tower.
“The seventh trumpet sounds from Aug. 1840, until “the time of trouble,” or day of wrath is ended. Hence, it doubtless ends with the times of the Gentiles, and this forty years of conquest; and therefore, sounds until A. D. 1914; at the end of which, Babylon the great, will have fallen, and the “dragon” be bound: that is, the nations will be subdued, and “the prince of this world cast out.”” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) p.143
“But bear in mind that the end of 1914 is not the date for the beginning, but for the end of the time of trouble.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1894 Jul 15 p.226
The End the “Day of Vengeance” (Armageddon)
Armageddon, also referred to as the Day of Vengeance, and the Battle of the Great Day, was to end in October 1914.
“we have seen that God has a set time for every feature of his plan, and that we are even now in this “Day of Vengeance,” which is a period of forty years; that it began in October, 1874, and will end in October, 1914.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance 1911ed pp.546,547
“… the battle of the great day of God Almighty … The date of the close of that “battle” is definitely marked in Scripture as October, 1914. It is already in progress, its beginning dating from October, 1874. … The Scriptures show also that the battle of the great day will begin with the church of God, and that the overthrow of the great nominal church systems will precede the overthrow of the present civil powers; for the Lord is about to shake, not only the earth (the civil organisation for society), but heaven (the ecclesiastical powers) also (Heb. 12:26), to the end that great “Babylon,” falsely called Christendom -Christ’s kingdom- may be completely destroyed.” Zion’s Watch Tower 1892 Jan 15 pp.21-23
“… the “battle of the great day of God Almighty” (Rev. 16:14), which will end in A.D. 1914 with the complete overthrow of earth’s present rulership, is already commenced.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Time Is At Hand (1889) p.101
144,000 Resurrected to Heaven
The 144,000, also known as the “body of Christ” or “the saints”, were to all be in heaven by 1914, prior to the completion of Armageddon.
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place some time before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time… Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed;…” Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come (1908 ed.) p.228
“There were also other expectations concerning 1914. Alexander H. Macmillan, who had been baptized in September 1900, later recalled: “A few of us seriously thought we were going to heaven during the first week of that October. In fact, recalling the morning that Russell announced the end of the Gentile Times, MacMillan admitted: “We were highly excited and I would not have been surprised if at that moment we had just started up, that becoming the signal to begin ascending heavenward-but of course there was nothing like that.”” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom pp.61-62
“As October 1914 approached, some of the Bible Students expected that at the end of the Gentile Times they, as spirit-anointed Christians, would receive their heavenly reward. Illustrating this is an incident that took place at a convention of the Bible Students in Saratoga Spring, New York, September 27-30, 1914. A. H.Macmillan, who had been baptized 14 years earlier, gave a discourse on Wednesday, September 30. In it he stated: ” This is probably the last public address I shall ever deliver, because we shall be going home [to heaven] soon.”” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.62
Jesus to start ruling the earth
SETTING UP THE EARTHLY GOVERNMENT —- Not until the full end of Gentile Times (October, A.D. 1914) should we expect the earthly phase of God’s Kingdom; for in giving a lease of dominion to the Gentiles until that date God made no mistake and his plans alter not. The earthly phase of the Kingdom of God when set up will be Israelitish; for such is God’s engagement or covenant with Abraham and his natural seed. Even the chief favor, the spiritual Kingdom, was offered first to fleshly Israel, and would have been given to them if they had been ready at heart to receive it on the conditions attached to it, – to suffer with Christ and afterward to be glorified with him.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance pp.624,625
The end of the harvest was to be followed by both the heavenly and earthly paradise.
“When this is fully accomplished, as it must be within this harvest period, then will follow the resurrection of the ancient worthies, then the kingdom of God, in both its heavenly and earthly phases, will be established and manifested to the world, – an event due at the close of this harvest period and time of trouble.” Watchtower 1895 May 15 p.123-124 reprints 1816
Earthly Resurrection to occur
“And yet “Jerusalem must be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled;” hence, trodden down until A. D. 1914, when the day of wrath will be passed, and the resurrection and return of the “whole house of Israel” due.” Three Worlds and The Harvest of This World (1877) pp.165-166
“The beginning of the earthly phase of the Kingdom in the end of A.D. 1914 will, we understand, consist wholly of the resurrected holy ones of olden time-from John the Baptizer back to Abel-“Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the holy prophets.” Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance p.625
The Time is At Hand – 7 (Unfulfilled) Expectations
The Time Is at Hand (1889) pages 76 to 78 claimed seven things would happen in 1914. Not one of these eventuated. The following statements are extracted from that list;
1. “the disintegration of the rule of imperfect men. Firstly, That at that date the Kingdom of God, for which our Lord taught us to pray, saying, “Thy Kingdom come,” will begin to assume control, and that it will then shortly be “set up,” or firmly established, in the earth, on the ruins of present institutions.” 2. He whose right it is thus to take the dominion will then be present as earth’s new Ruler; and not only so, but it will also prove that he will be present for a considerable period before that date; 3. the last member of the divinely recognized Church of Christ, the “royal priesthood,” “the body of Christ,” will beglorified with the Head; 4. Jerusalem shall no longer be trodden down 5. Israel’s blindness will begin to be turned away 6. the great “time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation,” will reach its culmination in a world-wide reign of anarchy 7. It will prove that before that date God’s Kingdom, organized in power, will be in the earth and then smite and crush the Gentile image (Dan. 2:34)-and fully consume the power of these kings.” Studies In the Scriptures Series II – The Time Is at Hand (1889) pp.76-78
Proof or Not?
Watchtower presented its conclusions as undeniable. Closer to the date, there was some back pedalling, saying the conclusions are not positive, but based on evidence and proof.
“We do not know positively that the month of October, 1914, will see the church all glorified, and the time of trouble ushered in. We merely say, Here are the evidences. Here are the proofs. Look at them for yourself and see what you then think. It is for each to accept or reject the facts.” Watch Tower 1913 Oct 15 p308-309 reprints 5329
Was Watchtower, or was it not, presenting it was positive about its predictions for 1914? What were followers supposed to think when words like proof, facts and evidence were used? Russell was messing with minds – “We do not know positively”, but are you brave enough to “reject the facts?”
Studies in the Scriptures – Editions after 1914
Editions of Studies in the Scriptures written prior to 1914 were very specific about what would happen prior to and during 1914. These journals continued to be used after 1914. To overcome the obviously erroneous predictions, in 1915 they were reissued with amendments.
For example, prior to 1914, editions of Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come stated on p.228 that the resurrection would occur before 1914. From the 1915 edition onwards, this was changed to state that the resurrection was to occur soon after 1914.
Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come pre 1914
Studies In the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come post 1914 editions
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place some time before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah’s Anointed. Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished. With these two thought in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.” Click here for scan of 1911 edition
“That the deliverance of the saints must take place very soon after 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah’s Anointed. Just how long after 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished.” Click here for scan of 1923 edition
Instead of being slated to “end in October 1914”, rewrites claimed (still erroneously) that Armageddon was to “end very shortly” and “very soon after”.
Studies In the Scriptures – The Day of Vengeance pp.546,547 1911 edition compared to 1927 edition
“CHANGES IN “SCRIPTURE STUDIES” We call attention to a few slight changes which have been made in four pages of Vol. II. and six pages of Vol. III., “STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES.” These are all trivial and do not alter the real sense and lesson, but conform to the facts as we have them today. The pages containing these corrections are as follows: Vol. II., page 77, line 1, “will be the farthest limit,” reads “will see the disintegration.” Vol. II., page 77, line 6, “will obtain full universal control,” reads “will begin to assume control.” Vol. II., page 77, lines 16,17, “end of A.D. 1914,” reads “end of the overthrow.” Vol. II., page 81, line 9, “can date only from A.D. 1914,” reads “could not precede A.D. 1915.” Vol. II., page 170, line 16, “at that time they will all be overturned.”* *How long it will require to accomplish this overturning we are not informed, but have reason to believe the period will be short. Vol. II., page 221, line 25, “full favor until A.D. 1914,” reads “full favor until after 1915.” Vol. III., page 94, line 29, “in this end or harvest,” reads “at the end of this harvest.” Vol. III., page 126, line 12, “at A.D. 1914,” reads “after 1914.” Vol. III., page 133, line 21, “ere the harvest is fully ended.”+ +The end of the harvest will probably include the burning of the tares. Vol. III., page 228, line 11, “some time before 1914,” reads “very soon after 1914.” Vol. III., page 228, line 15, “just how long before,” reads “just how long after.” Vol. III., page 362, line 11, “some time before,” reads “some time near.” Vol. III., page 364, line 14, “must not only witness,” reads “may not only witness.”” Watch Tower 1915 Mar 1 (reprints 5649)
Watchtower’s Dishonest Presentation of its’ History
Watchtower claims its foresight of 1914 as proof of Jehovah’s direction. Is this justified, knowing the Watchtower was incorrect in virtually every aspect?
The following quotes show the positive spin the Watchtower puts on Russell’s inaccurate teachings, in an attempt to make people believe holy spirit directs Watchtower interpretation of Bible prophecy. These quotes range from misleading but technically true, through to blatantly false. Phrases stating Watchtower foretold 1914 to be the end of the Gentile Times are strictly accurate, but lead the reader to the incorrect conclusion that the expectations for what would occur were accurate. Statements abound that Watchtower pointed forward to 1914 as “the start of “the conclusion of the system of things,”” the start of “Jesus Presence,” or the start of his “rulership.”
When reading these quotes, it is important to remember that in 1914 the Watchtower was teaching Jesus’ presence began in 1874 and his heavenly rulership began in 1878.
“Our belief that the Kingdom began to be setup, or brought into power, in April, 1878, be it observed, rests on exactly the same foundation as our belief that the Lord became present in October, 1874, and that the harvest began at that time.” Studies in the Scriptures – Thy Kingdom Come p.235
As late as 1930, the Watchtower was still referring to 1874 as the start of Jesus presence.
“… from the beginning of the Lord’s presence in 1874 the Devil used the Papal system as the chief opposing instrument of God’s kingdom …” Watch Tower 1930 Sep 15 p.275
Those in Watchtower’s writing department are well aware of the organisation’s history. For instance, the 1993 Proclaimers book states:
“Based on the premise that events of the first century might find parallels in related events later, they also concluded that if Jesus’ baptism and anointing in the autumn of 29 C.E. paralleled the beginning of an invisible presence in 1874, then his riding into Jerusalem as King in the spring of 33 C.E. would point to the spring of 1878 as the time when he would assume his power as heavenly King.” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.632
Yet in that very same year, Watchtower articles falsely claim:
“The Watchtower[1] has consistently presented evidence to honest hearted students of Bible prophecy that Jesus’ presence in heavenly Kingdom power began in 1914. Events since that year testify to Jesus’ invisible presence.” Watchtower 1993 Jan 15 p.5
“Jehovah’s Witnesses have consistently shown from the Scriptures that the year 1914 marked the beginning of this world’s time of the end and that “the day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men” has drawn near.” Watchtower 1993 Aug 15 p.9
The following examples of untruthful Watchtower statements regarding its teachings prior to 1914 span decades, and the leadership of numerous Presidents and Governing Body members, showing that manipulation through deception is systemic to how Watchtower leaders control Jehovah’s Witness members.
“Decades before 1914, Jehovah’s worshippers declared to the nations that the end of “the appointed times of the nations” would come in that year and that the world would enter into an unequaled period of trouble.” Watchtower 2013 Feb 15 p.18
“As that “time” approached, Jehovah took steps to reveal the answer to a group of humble Bible students. With the help of God’s spirit, they discerned that “the appointed times of the nations” began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. and that those “times” were 2,520 years in length. From this, they deduced that 1914 marked the end of “the appointed times of the nations.” They also came to realize that 1914 was the beginning of the end for this system of things.” Watchtower 2004 Feb 1 p.19
“… a prophecy providentially caused sincere 19th-century Bible students to be in expectation. By linking the “seven times” of Daniel 4:25 with “the times of the Gentiles”, they anticipated that Christ would receive Kingdom power in 1914.” Watchtower 1998 Sep 15 p.15
“Back in 1904, the book The New Creation called attention to this new organization that came into existence in the first century C.E. (Studies In The Scriptures, Series VI, Study V, entitled “The Organization of the New Creation”) Owing to its view of what the end of the Gentile Times would mean, that book did not envision the remarkable organizational work that was due to take place after the crippling effects of the first world war of human history.” Watchtower 1989 Sep 1 pp.12-13
“As far back as 1876, Jehovah’s Witnesses realized that Bible prophecy marked the year 1914 C.E. as a time when major events would take place that would have far-reaching effects on human affairs. They gave the reason for this fact wide publicity.” True Peace And Security (1986) p.70
“How did Jehovah’s Witnesses know more than 30 years in advance that 1914 would be an important date for divine rulership? Though the Witnesses at the time did not understand the full implication of events about to take place, the Watch Tower magazine as far back as December of 1879 pointed to 1914 as a marked date in regard to Bible prophecy. And the Mar 1880 issue of the Watch Tower linked God’s Kingdom rule with the ending of what Jesus Christ referred to as “the appointed times of the nations,” or “the times of the Gentiles.” (Luke 21:24; Authorized Version) That Watch Tower said: “‘The Times of the Gentiles’ extend to 1914, and the heavenly kingdom will not have full sway till then.”” Watchtower 1984 Apr 1 p.6 1914 a Marked Year-Why?
“Even earlier, however, C. T. Russell wrote an article entitled “Gentile Times: When Do They End?” It was published in the Bible Examiner of October 1876, and therein Russell said: “The seven times will end in A.D. 1914.” He had correctly linked the Gentile Times with the “seven times” mentioned in the book of Daniel. (Dan. 4:16, 23, 25, 32) True to such calculations, 1914 did mark the end of those times and the birth of God’s kingdom in heaven with Christ Jesus as king. Just think of it! Jehovah granted his people that knowledge nearly four decades before those times expired.” Yearbook 1975 p.37
“This remnant of anointed ones have identified themselves on the pages of history since 1914 C.E. Before this year members of this anointed remnant had been earnestly studying God’ s Word apart from Christendom. They put the Holy Bible ahead of man-made religious traditions. As early as 1876 they were publishing that the Gentile Times of 2,520 years would terminate in the year 1914. Events that have taken place from that year onward prove they were not wrong.” God’s Eternal Purpose Now Triumphing For Man’s Good (1974) pp.178-179
“Of all men used by God to prophesy, Jesus is outstanding. Based on what he said, along with the words of Daniel and John, Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to the year 1914, decades in advance, as marking the start of “the conclusion of the system of things.” Awake! 1973 Jan 22 p.8
“When in 1914 C.E. the 2,520 years of the Gentile Times ended for the Gentile nations to trample on Jerusalem’s right to a Messianic kingship in the royal line of David, the Most High God Jehovah installed the Messiah Jesus on the heavenly throne in order to reign and go subduing among his enemies. (Psalm 110:1-6; Acts 2:34-36; Hebrews 10:12, 13) During World War I (1914-1918 C.E.) the dedicated, baptized remnant of spiritual Israelites publicly proclaimed that the Gentile Times had ended and that the Most High God had made his Son Jesus Christ reigning King in the heavens.” Paradise Restored to Mankind – By Theocracy! (1972) p.273
“For over thirty years before that date and for half a century since, Jehovah’s witnesses have pointed to the year 1914 as the time for the end of “the appointed times of the nations” and the time in which Christ would begin his Kingdom rule. (Luke 21:24)” Watchtower 1966 Feb 15 p.103
“His rule would be from the heavens. This was a new revelation of great importance to God’s people who had been anxiously awaiting his second presence toward the end of the nineteenth century. The truth that 1914 marked the end of the “times of the nations” that started in 607 B.C. and the beginning of the “time of the end” for the nations and hence the beginning of his presence, was new knowledge over which God’s people could rejoice.” Watchtower 1965 Jul 15 p.428
“Why, then, do the nations not realize and accept the approach of this climax of judgment? It is because they have not heeded the world wide advertising of Christ’s return and his second Presence. Since long before World War I Jehovah’s witnesses pointed to 1914 as the time for this great event to occur.” Watchtower 1954 Jun 15 p.370
“As for the time of Christ’s second presence, Daniel’s prophecy is again the one that gives the chronology for it. (Dan. 4:16) It was figured out as pointing to A.D. 1914, and The Watchtower called notice to the significance of 1914 in the year 1879.” Watchtower 1952 Nov 1 p.658
“Under the guidance of God’s spirit of freedom the magazine today known as The Watchtower but known back there as Zion’s Watch Tower, began to be published in Jul, 1879. In the first year of its publication it pointed to the date 1914 as marked in the Bible.” What Has Religion Done For Mankind? (1951) p.308
It is disappointing to learn that your religion incorrectly predicted the end would occur in 1914, as it shows it is directed by humans and not God. To find that the leaders continue to lie about what was said is more disturbing, as it shows the leaders actively colluded to deceive and manipulate their followers.
Reality Check
The only aspect of Russell’s 1914 prediction to remain is the term “end of the Gentile times.” Though the term is still in use, the meaning has greatly changed. Before 1914, this meant that earthly governments would end in total destruction and false religion would be overturned, heralding God’s kingdom on earth. Now it simply means that Jesus is ruling in heaven, a handy concept as it is invisible, unnoticed, and unfalsifiable.
It is interesting that Russell’s incorrect understanding of 1914 had a huge weight of Scriptural prophecy to support it. Some of the reasoning was as follows:
The 1260 days prophecy pointed to 1799 as the last days
The 2300 day prophecy pointed to 1844
The 1335 day prophecy, end of the 6000 years and jubilee cycles all pointed to 1874 as the beginning of Jesus presence
From the above prophecies 1914 could be determined because:
1914 was a 40 year Jewish harvest from 1874.
It was a 70 year generation from 1844.
It was indicated by the prophecy of the seven times
40 years from 1874 to 1914 corresponds to 40 years from Jesus baptism in 30 A.D. to Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 A.D.
36 ½ years from 1878 to 1914 corresponded to 36 ½ years of trouble from Jesus death to the Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 A.D.
Each of these lines of reasoning are now explained as wrong by Watchtower, and few Jehovah’s Witnesses are even aware of the huge importance placed on 1874 for over 50 years.
Russell stated in Zion’s Watch Tower 1892 Jan 1 p.22 that “never was there such a general time of banding together as at present.” Yet all this weight of evidence that the 1800’s were the “last days” has since been discarded. Today, only one prophecy is used to specifically point to 1914 as the start of Jesus presence; that is, the Seven Times. The other scriptural proofs are now considered to have been wrong.
As impressive as Russell’s reasoning looks, it was progressively changed as one prediction after another failed to eventuate. Russell originally wrote that the Bible Students ascension to heaven and the fall of Babylon were to happen in years prior to 1914. 1914 was just the date when the Gentile times would end and paradise be established on earth. As his predictions failed to eventuate these occurrences were moved to 1914. Russell was clearly wrong when not one of these had occurred by the end of 1914.
In addition to his predictions being wrong, Russell was unsure whether to use the year 1914 or 1915. As shown later, he did not know how to deal the year zero when calculating prophecy, and so fluctuated between saying the end would arrive in 1914 or 1915.
As 1914 came closer Russell’s writings became less confident that his predictions were correct and started hedging his comments. Where as in 1892 the Jan 15 p.23 Zion’s Watch Tower used the term “definitely marked in Scripture” Russell started to use terms like “possibly shortly after”, and “not infallible”. Bible Students started to be prepared for failure.
“We shall be as glad as any one if we shall all experience our change from earthly to spirit conditions before 1915, and and this is our expectation; but if this should not be the Lord’s will, then it would not be our will. So far as we have been able to see up to the present time, the failure of a full development of matters in 1915, or before, would imply that all the chronological arrangements, as we have them, are wrong–our view of the Harvest and all. And we have no reason to believe that these are wrong. We remember that we are not infallible, and that our judgment is not infallible; but the wonderful inventions of today, and the light that is dawning in every direction, as well as the universal unrest, seem in corroboration of the chronology–that we are in the dawning of the New Age. But just how far along we are we do not positively know.” Watch Tower 1914 Jan 1 p.5 (reprints 5374)
When Jesus earthly kingdom did not eventuate in 1914, Watchtower publications began to promote 1915. When 1915 amounted to nothing, the entire meaning of all Russell’s prophetic interpretation required rewriting. It took until 1943[2] for the new understanding to finally be clarified.
“In the year 1943 the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society published the book “The Truth Shall Make You Free.” … This moved forward the end of six thousand years of man’s existence into the decade of the 1970’s. Naturally this did away with the year 1874 C.E. as the date of return of the Lord Jesus Christ and the beginning of his invisible presence or parousia. … Page 324 of the above book positively says: “The King’s presence or parousia began in 1914.”” God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached pp.209-210
Why has the Watchtower Society discontinued its belief in all their original date interpretations but retained 1914? The occurrence of World War One appeared to give 1914 historical significance whilst none are able to be attached to any of the other 20 or so dates promoted. However, the Watchtower explanation of the prophecy of the Seven Times is examined and shown to be based on historical errors and inconsistent reasoning, leaving no reason to say that 1914 is of any relevance to us today.
Blame the Members
As soon as proven wrong about 1914, Russell went into damage control, dishonestly rewriting history. Reading through the older publications, it is evident how forcefully the predictions for 1914 were presented as truth. Russell began claiming his teachings were nothing more than inference.
“We did not say positively that this would be the year. We merely left every one to look at the facts of history and reckon for himself. … But would it be a reasonable expectation that the Gentile Kingdoms would be snuffed out inside of an hour or inside of a day? … We do not think that any would have been justified in so thinking. If any had such expectation, it was unwarranted.” Watch Tower 1914 Nov 1 pp.325-326 reprints p.5565
Even more unsavoury is the manner in which Russell attacked the motives of those that stopped being his followers.
“If there is any reason that would lead any to let go of the Lord and His Truth and to cease sacrificing for the Lord’s Cause, then it is not merely the love of God in the heart which has prompted interest in the Lord, but something else; probably a hoping that the time was short; the consecration was only for a certain time. If so, now is a good time to let go.” Watch Tower 1914 Nov 1 reprints p.5570
“The present is a time of testing, we believe, to many of the Lord’s people. Have we in the past been active merely because we hoped for our glorious change in A.D. 1914, or have we been active because of our love and loyalty to the Lord and his message and the brethren!” Watch Tower 1915 Mar 1 reprints p.5649
Those that stopped following Russell did so because they came to the conclusion he was a charlatan. They did not “let go of the Lord”, but rather came to realise that Russell and his interpretations could not be trusted. It is of extreme arrogance for Russell to equate those that stopped following his failed teachings with leaving the Lord, and of impure motives, and it is of little wonder that many came to recognise him as a false teacher.
Rutherford continued with this strategy of blaming members for their enthusiasm in accepting Watchtower information as truth.
“It seems to be a weakness of many Bible Students that if they locate a future date in the Bible, immediately they center as many prophecies upon that date as possible. This has been the cause of many siftings in the past. As far as we recall, all the dates foreseen were correct. The difficulty was that the friends inflated their imaginations beyond reason; and that when their imaginations burst asunder, there were inclined to throw away everything. … Many can remember how “absolutely sure” some were about 1914. No doubt the Lord was pleased with the zeal manifested by his servants; but did they have a Scriptural basis for all they expected to come to pass that year? Let us be cautious, therefore about predicting particulars.” Watch Tower 1925 Feb 15 p.57
It is disappointing to note Watchtower continues being critical of these individuals in the early 1900’s, rather than lay blame where it squarely belongs, on Watchtower leaders.
“Tom: You stated earlier that Pastor Russell was not too certain as to exactly what would take place in 1914. Was that the general attitude of the Witnesses at that time?
John: There is no doubt that many throughout this period were overzealous in their statements as to what could be expected. Some read into the Watch Tower statements that were never intended, and while it was necessary for Russell to call attention to the certainty that a great change was due at the end of the Gentile times, he still encouraged his readers to keep an open mind, especially as regards the time element.” Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Divine Purpose p.52
Watchtower blames those who believed they were going to heaven on misunderstanding the message and labels those that stop following the Watchtower leaders as having been serving out of wrong motives.
“Disappointed expectations as to the return of the Lord Jesus had in the 19th century caused many followers of William Miller and various Adventist groups to lose faith. But what about the Bible Students associated with Russell? Had some been attracted by the thought of their own early salvation rather than love for God and a strong desire to do his will?” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.62
“Their thoughts and desires had been fixed primarily on the prospect of being changed to heavenly life. When this did not occur at the anticipated time, they closed their minds to the significance of the amazing things that did take place in 1914. They lost sight of all the precious truths that they had learned from God’s Word, and they began to ridicule the people who had helped them to learn these.” Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom p.636
This is such a conceited comment. Bible Students were attracted to Russell’s message because they thought it was truth, and when he was proven to be a fraud they stopped following him. If some believed in a resurrection prior to Russell, whilst following Russell’s teachings, and after they ceased to believe his interpretations, it is irrelevant whether they hoped the resurrection would come “early.” At least, they were honest enough to admit they had been deceived.
The Yearbook 2014 discusses how some members carried a countdown card that ended with the date 1st October 1914. It avoids mentioning the Watchtower’s responsibility for such expectations.
“Some Bible Students even carried a countdown card so that they could mark off each passing day. Many felt that they would be called beyond the veil, or to heaven, on that date.” Yearbook 2014 p.174
This is a common Watchtower formula; blame the members. Rather then apologise for error, say the followers were overzealous, misunderstood things or read into things. As prior quotes showed, this is just not true. The statements flowed unendingly, “this is an established truth”, there is “proof”, these things “will” occur. It was spelled out so clearly there was no need for the members to read in what was not intended.
Possibly worse is that these mistakes are also handed off to be the fault of the Lord. Rather than admit he had spent decades misleading people, Russell passes blame to the Lord for overruling these lies and false prophecies.
“The author acknowledges that in this book he presents the thought that the Lord’s saints might expect to be with Him in glory at the ending of the Gentile Times. This was a natural mistake to fall into, but the Lord overruled it for the blessing of His people.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is At Hand 1916 foreword iv
The 1916 foreword to The Time is At Hand introduced the comment that the book “makes no claim to infallibility”.
“This Volume makes no claim to infallibility, and no claim of any direct inspiration from God in the interpretation of His Word. On the contrary, it does claim that the Divine Revelation is the Bible. Its endeavour has been to collate the Bible evidences to offer suggestions in respect to the significance.” Studies in the Scriptures – The Time is At Hand 1916 foreword i
Russell had attracted thousands of convinced followers with statements that his interpretations were beyond doubt, and then when proven wrong excused this deception by adding a simple foreword that he never claimed to be infallible.
The Governing Body continues to use this strategy to great effect,
“The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or in organizational direction.” Watchtower 2017 Feb p.26
The Governing body take this concept even further than intended by Russell, by demanding absolute allegiance to their interpretation as spirit directed truth, then allowing an escape route by claiming they are not inspired. This is disingenuous, as being directed by holy spirit is the same as being inspired.
Carl Sagan regarding Watchtower predictions
Carl Sagan made an important observation regarding a “prominent American religion [which] confidently predicted that the world would end in 1914.” Whilst not naming the religion, there is little doubt who he was referring to. He is not at all flattering about people that choose to accept the reasoning for why the world did not end as expected then, and continue to follow such evasive religious leaders.
“Doctrines that make no predictions are less compelling than those which make correct predictions; they are in turn more successful than doctrines that make false predictions.
But not always. One prominent American religion confidently predicted that the world would end in 1914. Well, 1914 has come and gone, and — while the events of that year were certainly of some importance — the world does not, at least so far as I can see, seem to have ended. There are at least three responses that an organized religion can make in the face of such a failed and fundamental prophecy. They could have said, “Oh, did we say ‘1914’? So sorry, we meant ‘2014.’ A slight error in calculation. Hope you weren’t inconvenienced in any way.” But they did not. They could have said, “Well, the world would have ended, except we prayed very hard and interceded with God so He spared the Earth.” But they did not. Instead, they did something much more ingenious.
They announced that the world had in fact ended in 1914, and if the rest of us hadn’t noticed, that was our lookout. It is astonishing in the face of such transparent evasions that this religion has any adherents at all. But religions are tough. Either they make no contentions which are subject to disproof or they quickly redesign doctrine after disproof. The fact that religions can be so shamelessly dishonest, so contemptuous of the intelligence of their adherents, and still flourish does not speak very well for the tough-mindedness of the believers. But it does indicate, if a demonstration were needed, that near the core of the religious experience is something remarkably resistant to rational inquiry.”
Broca’s Brain, Carl Sagan (New York: Ballantine Books, 1979, pp. 332-33)
Conclusion
The stream of time has proven all Watchtower predicted for 1914 wrong, either by it changing its doctrine on specific points, or definitive predictions not occurring. Yet, Watchtower boasts about this part of its history, choosing to gloat over its remarkable foresight that the Gentile Times would end in 1914.
“Very noteworthy was the striking accuracy with which that book pointed to the end of the Gentile Times, “the appointed times of the nations.”” Yearbook 1975 p.37
The end of the Gentile times are a vague and unverifiable concept, and it cannot be proven they ended in 1914, making it hardly noteworthy that a prediction was made that cannot be proven or disproven. Likewise, it cannot be proven that Jesus started ruling in 1914, as the Watchtower describes this as an unseen event. What is noteworthy that the verifiable predictions Watchtower made for 1914, such as the end of religion, the end of government, and the earthly resurrection, all failed to eventuate.
Russell was not guided by Jehovah to uniquely understand Daniel’s prophecy of the Seven Times; he took his interpretation from Adventists such as Barbour. His interpretation was wrong, as he adamantly stated that 1914 would be “the final end” of this system of things. Watchtower has not presented a consistent understanding of 1914 and the current interpretation was not finalised until 1943.
Watchtower spent decades promoting its most prominent doctrine that the end would occur in 1914. Should a person trust Watchtower when it was proven so dramatically wrong? Can a person trust it when it continues to resort to deception when presenting its history? How can a person belong to an organization that refuses to accept responsibility for its mistakes, passing the blame to its faithful followers?
The admonition from Paul at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 is apt.
“However, brothers, respecting the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we request of YOU not to be quickly shaken from YOUR reason nor to be excited either through an inspired expression or through a verbal message or through a letter as though from us, to the effect that the day of Jehovah is here.”
“Knowing these things, what will you do? It is obvious that the true God, who is himself “the God of truth” and who hates lies, will not look with favor on persons who cling to organizations that teach falsehood. (Psalm 31:5; Proverbs 6:16-19; Revelation 21:8) And, really, would you want to be even associated with a religion that had not been honest with you?”
[1] Some Watchtower apologists may try to reason that the Jan 15 1993 quote is accurate, since The Watchtower only took that title since October 15 1931, by which time Jesus presence had been moved to 1914. Any false statements regarding 1874 had appeared when the magazine was called The Watch Tower. If that truly was the writers intend, it must be seen as deliberately misleading. Nor it is a fair comment, since The Watchtower refers to its older magazines collectively as The Watchtower. For instance The Watchtower 1936 p.382 says “It was about that date [1879] that the second presence of the Lord began to be considered in the pages of The Watchtower, which since then until now has been the means of communicating truth to those who love the Lord.”
[2]God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached p.209 states the understanding of 1874 changed in 1943. Although 1874 ceased being a millennium marker in 1943, the reasoning that changing “the six thousand years … did away with the year 1874 C.E. as the date of return of the Lord Jesus Christ” is quite dishonest, since 1874 had already been changed to 1914 in 1930.
In the 1920’s, Watchtower was still teaching that Jesus presence started in 1874.
“Bible prophecy shows that the Lord was due to appear for the second time in the year 1874. Fulfilled prophecy shows beyond a doubt that he did appear in 1874. Fulfilled prophecy is otherwise designated the physical facts; and these facts are indisputable.” Watch Tower 1922 Nov 1 p.333
“The Scriptural proof is that the second presence of the Lord Jesus Christ began in 1874 A.D. This proof … ” Prophecy 1929 pp.65,66
Golden Age 1930 Apr 30 first indicated that Jesus arrival was 1914. (“The end of the world would therefore mean the arriving of the time when Satan’s rule would be disputed by Christ, whose right it is to rule. That period of 2520 years ended in the fall of 1914.” p.505) This was discussed again in the 1931 booklet, The Kingdom, the Hope of The World and then the Watchtower in 1932.
What is Truth? made clear that the Second Coming had shifted to 1914.
“The prophecy of the Bible, fully supported by the physical facts in fulfilment thereof, shows that the second coming of Christ dates from the fall of the year 1914.” What is Truth? (1932) p.48
This was clarified in the 1933 Watchtower.
“The year 1914, therefore, marks the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King of glory.” Watchtower 1933 Dec 1 p.362
The following poster incorporates quotes from Studies in the Scriptures – The Battle of Armageddon (1897) with images from The Photo Drama of Creation (1914), concisely depicting that despite the doomsday similarities with current teachings, Watchtower prophetic interpretation was a complete failure.
Source of image: cs.jw.poster@gmail.com
The following video presents discussion from the Aug 2009 Watchtower. Most interesting are the comments at 2:30 minutes.
Scanned copies of Studies in the Scriptures and other historical Watchtower publications are linked to for free from Classic Watchtower Publications.
The most liberal state in America is Massachusettsand more liberals live in the Old Bay State than anywhere else in U.S. About 35% of the state’s residents consider themselves liberal and the state has voted 13 out of 15 times in a presidential election since 1964.
One of the most liberal websites in the world!
One of the most liberal TV shows in the world!
One of the most liberal presidents the United States has ever had!
One of the most liberal agencies in America!
What do all the above have in common? Jesus went to the cross, so they can obtain salvation and live with Christ forever. Can you find it in your heart to pray for all of the above as we need to be a mirror image of Christ, and I know Christ would want them in heaven.
Aug. 10, 2023 Jewish Third Temple, and Red Heifer news what it means
I have been warning people for years to watch the news because, you will see the events that will lead up to the Jews building their Third Temple and begin to do the sacrifices the way they used to when Jesus came the first time. In the past weeks alone we have seen news talking about the Red Heifers which have returned after no seeing them for almost 2,000 years. We have seen reports of how the fox’s have shown up again at the Western Wall in East Jerusalem which the Jews believe is a sign the Third Temple is going to be built soon. We have seen another report on the high speed rail system that is going to have a stop at the Temple Mount area so people can go up to the rebuilt Temple. We have also seen a report that says the Israeli Government is “funneling” funds to construct the Third Temple. Below I put up all of these report together so you can see them all in one place. First of all you will see the scriptures from the bible talking about this Third Temple. After the scriptures you will see my posts from the past two weeks which I report on events leading up to the building Temple. Last of all, you can watch my video on all the events leading this generation to witnessing the Third Temple being built.
Below you will see the scriptures that warn us there will be a Third Jewish Temple built in the last days.
Ezekiel 43:8In their setting of their threshold by my thresholds, and their post by my posts, and the wall between me and them, they have even defiled my holy name by their abominations that they have committed: wherefore I have consumed them in mine anger.
Other warnings about a Third Jewish Temple below.
FROM MY POSTS THIS PAST WEEK
In the report below it talks about how Israel is building a fast speed rail system that by 2040, will reach the Jewish Temple. Keep in mind, it may take that long to build that rail system but, I believe that Third Jewish Temple will be built way before that rail system is finished. The point to take home is they are talking about the same Jewish Temple that we see warned in the prophecies I have shown you.
High-speed rail to bring pilgrims from Saudi Arabia to Third Temple by 2040
This week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a $27 billion plan to link the north and south of the country by rail. When complete, the proposed high-speed rail line will run about 400 kilometers (250 miles) from the northern city of Kiryat Shmona to the southern city of Eilat. “It [the rail line] will also be able to link Israel by train to Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. We’re working on that too,” said Netanyahu.
Feb. 12, 2020 I up loaded the newest information as to events leading to the building of that Jewish Third Temple. In that video I show you part of the high speed rail system that the Jewish have already finished. You will see the reports showing that they tell us that rail system will lead to the Temple Mount where the Third Temple will stand! If you haven’t seen this video, you need to watch it because the last days events are closing in on us fast.
Foxes seen walking near the Western Wall, fulfilling biblical promise
According to the biblical prophecy, now that the barren Temple has become a walking ground for foxes, so it will be rebuilt.
As the Jewish world is counting the days to the ninth of Av (Tisha Be’Av), the date on which Jews mourn the destruction of the two Temples in Jerusalem following its destruction by the Romans, foxes have been spotted walking near the Western Wall, a press release reported on Thursday.
It is written in the Book of Lamentations (5:18), which is read on Tisha Be’Av, that Mount Zion – where the Temples stood – will be so desolate that “foxes will walk upon it.” The understanding, according to the Talmud in the tractate Makkot (24b), is that if the prophecies of destruction have been fulfilled, so will be the ones by the prophet Zechariah about the Temple being rebuilt.
Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, the Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites, referred to photos of the foxes and commented, “One cannot refrain from crying at the site of the fulfillment of the prophecy of ‘foxes will walk on it.’”
Hi everyone, this is pastor Frank. What I am going to report on today is extremely important when it comes to the last days, the days in which the Antichrist man will rule Earth during the tribulation period of which Jesus Christ warns us about in the book of Revelation. A huge part of the last days will be from the reappearance of the Red Heifers. If you don’t know why the Red Heifers are so important watch my video I produced in 2022, then go down to the news today and see what is happening. You will see from the report that many in Israel now believe because the Red Heifers have remained pure that the Third Temple is going to be built soon. The report talks about funds by the Israeli government going to build that Temple. One way or another, with the Israeli government funds or without the Temple is coming and the Antichrist will tell the world from that Temple that he is God. This will be the Mother load of all lies!!
To meet the requirements of the Old Testament law, a red heifer was needed to help accomplish the purification of the Israelites from uncleanness—specifically, the ashes of a red heifer were needed (see Numbers 19). Because red heifer ashes were necessary for the purification rites held at the temple, many have regarded the appearance of a red heifer today as heralding the construction of the third temple and the return of Christ. Scripture points to this very thing.
Israel’s TV Channel 12 news released an investigative report about the five red heifers that were brought to the Jewish state last September and the supposed “funneling” of government funds to construct the Third Temple.
Israeli journalist Omri Maniv, who has posted to social media multiple times about the red heifers and their meaning, conducted the investigation.
Last month, the journalist tweeted about an experiment conducted by Bar Ilan University Prof. Zohar Amar who attempted to determine how many people could be ritually purified by one red heifer.
In the study, Prof. Amar said that one red heifer would provide enough ashes to purify 660 billion purifications.
Maniv argued that the government has shifted funds from other accounts for the purpose of preparing for the purification rituals and possibly the Third Temple. Many rabbis have forbidden their followers from going up to the Temple Mount because they are not in a state of ritual purity.
He also argues that the funds are being shifted quietly to not raise tensions internally and with the Arab population.
Just two weeks ago, near the site of the biblical Shiloh, where the Tabernacle was kept during the time of the judges, a group of Jews descended from the tribe of Levi and the priestly families, enacted a practice run of the purification ceremony.
The event occurred at a site called “Ancient Shiloh” affiliated with the Temple Institute, and contained explanations of the priestly functions, including sacrifice. The event also featured a “Temple banquet” containing foods from the Second Temple and biblical periods.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of one of the five red heifers.
“We are yearning for the Temple, and suddenly there is a red heifer here, and we understand what that means…something is about to happen,” stated Kobi Mamo, CEO of Ancient Shiloh.
According to the Book of Numbers, the Tabernacle and the Temple were purified with the ashes of a red heifer.
For more info on the Red Heifers go to my book and begin reading at page 470.
Get all the details as to all the things that are happening to speed up the building of the Jewish Third Temple that the Lord Jesus warned us about. This is the Temple the Antichrist is going to go into and tell the world he is God, then try to force the world into taking his mark which Jesus in the 13th chapter of Revelation tells us that mark will be placed in the forehead or hand. If you are one of the people who still don’t believe in Christ Jesus you need to watch the video below.
North Korean leader orders preparations for possible war
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the military’s top general and called for more preparations for the possibility of war, a boost in weapons production, and expansion of military drills. Kim made the comments at the 7th Enlarged Meeting of the 8th Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party of Korea.
The troops are part of an Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) and arrived onboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan and dock landing ship USS Carter Hall. The vessels entered the Red Sea on Sunday after transiting through the Suez Canal.
It takes about 30 seconds to do a VAERS query that shows the COVID vaccines are deadly. The shape of the “onset curve” makes this obvious. An estimated 676,000 Americans have been killed.
“Given the gravity of the peer-reviewed revelation, it would appear that parliament should be recalled immediately to review the latest scientific material and call a halt to the roll-out of the booster programme.”
‘It’s Murder’: Remdesivir Victims Decry FDA’s Shocking New Move
Remdesivir may be the most despised drug in American history, earning the nickname Run Death Is Near for its lethal record during COVID. Experts claimed that it would stop COVID; instead, it stopped kidney function, then blasted the liver and other organs. Now this reviled destroyer of kidneys has been approved by the FDA for COVID treatment of kidney patients. Does anybody else feel as if the FDA is shoving its power in our faces and laughing at us?
Palestinians kept in dark about potential Israeli-Saudi normalization
The Palestinian Authority is closely following reports concerning a possible normalization agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia, Palestinian officials said Wednesday. The PA leadership has yet to receive word from the Saudis regarding the veracity of the reports, the officials said.
AI weaponry on the horizon for world powers
The United States and China are slugging it out in an ongoing tech war revolving around the future of artificial intelligence (AI), according to a recent news release from GlobalData, a London-based data analytics and consulting company. Both nations are doing their best to keep the other from acquiring technology and materials that would, among other things, enhance their military’s ability to use and develop AI.
WATCH: Israeli researchers grow miniature human heart
“What makes this even more groundbreaking is that because we could make this heart in the lab, we were able to put sensors on it that told us how it works and to get some insight into the physiology of the human heart,”
Clashes between Israelis and Palestinians, whether involving Israeli soldiers or Jewish settlers, are reported quickly and frequently. This is always immediately worth a headline in the foreign media. Of course, Israel always comes off badly, because after all, the “principle” applies that it has conquered “Palestine” and the Palestinian Arabs therefore have the full right to a liberation struggle. When there are clashes or protests within the Palestinian population, however, mostly there is little interest.
‘Harry’s Razors’ Ad Features Trans Activist.
“Socially-minded” razor blades company Harry’s has partnered with a transgender social media influencer to advertise a product line raising money for The Trevor Project, which in turn promotes “pubertal suppression” drugs for minors.
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
At least 60 fatalities, 37 missing as severe floods continue affecting China
At least 60 people have lost their lives and 37 others remain missing in eastern China due to widespread floods caused by heavy rains over the past 10 days. The missing people include 51 in Beijing, 28 in Hebei, 15 in Jilin, and 3 in Fujian.
Over a million evacuate as Tropical Cyclone “Khanun” threatens South Korea post havoc in Okinawa
Tropical Cyclone “Khanun” formed on July 27, 2023, as the 7th named storm of the 2023 Pacific typhoon season. The system is already blamed for the death of 6 people in southern Japan and Taiwan. Kahun is expected to make landfall over the southern coast of South Korea around 00:00 UTC on August 10.
Read Chapter 21 of my book you see the link below on the rapture
Hi everyone, this is pastor Frank. What I am going to report on today is extremely important when it comes to the last days, the days in which the Antichrist man will rule Earth during the tribulation period of which Jesus Christ warns us about in the book of Revelation. A huge part of the last days will be from the reappearance of the Red Heifers. If you don’t know why the Red Heifers are so important watch my video I produced in 2022, then go down to the news today and see what is happening. You will see from the report that many in Israel now believe because the Red Heifers have remained pure that the Third Temple is going to be built soon. The report talks about funds by the Israeli government going to build that Temple. One way or another, with the Israeli government funds or without the Temple is coming and the Antichrist will tell the world from that Temple that he is God. This will be the Mother load of all lies!!
To meet the requirements of the Old Testament law, a red heifer was needed to help accomplish the purification of the Israelites from uncleanness—specifically, the ashes of a red heifer were needed (see Numbers 19). Because red heifer ashes were necessary for the purification rites held at the temple, many have regarded the appearance of a red heifer today as heralding the construction of the third temple and the return of Christ. Scripture points to this very thing.
Israel’s TV Channel 12 news released an investigative report about the five red heifers that were brought to the Jewish state last September and the supposed “funneling” of government funds to construct the Third Temple.
Israeli journalist Omri Maniv, who has posted to social media multiple times about the red heifers and their meaning, conducted the investigation.
Last month, the journalist tweeted about an experiment conducted by Bar Ilan University Prof. Zohar Amar who attempted to determine how many people could be ritually purified by one red heifer.
In the study, Prof. Amar said that one red heifer would provide enough ashes to purify 660 billion purifications.
Maniv argued that the government has shifted funds from other accounts for the purpose of preparing for the purification rituals and possibly the Third Temple. Many rabbis have forbidden their followers from going up to the Temple Mount because they are not in a state of ritual purity.
He also argues that the funds are being shifted quietly to not raise tensions internally and with the Arab population.
Just two weeks ago, near the site of the biblical Shiloh, where the Tabernacle was kept during the time of the judges, a group of Jews descended from the tribe of Levi and the priestly families, enacted a practice run of the purification ceremony.
The event occurred at a site called “Ancient Shiloh” affiliated with the Temple Institute, and contained explanations of the priestly functions, including sacrifice. The event also featured a “Temple banquet” containing foods from the Second Temple and biblical periods.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of one of the five red heifers.
“We are yearning for the Temple, and suddenly there is a red heifer here, and we understand what that means…something is about to happen,” stated Kobi Mamo, CEO of Ancient Shiloh.
According to the Book of Numbers, the Tabernacle and the Temple were purified with the ashes of a red heifer.
Pastor Harendra Singh (L) and wife Priya (R). | Facebook/Harendra Singh
A pastor, his wife, and young son have been jailed for allegedly luring innocent people to Christianity in violation of an anti-conversion law in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state where Christians only make up less than 1% of the 200 million population. The pastor, Harendra Singh, and his wife, Priya, were arrested by the police and jailed along with their 3-year-old son on July 31 after they were accused of hosting a prayer meeting in their home located in the town of Haidargarh, a report from the Union of Catholic Asian News said.
Deep M6.2 earthquake hits Santiago del Estero, Argentina
A deep earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.2 hit Santiago del Estero, Argentina at 07:20 UTC on August 5, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 597 km (370 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth. https://watchers.news/2023/08/05/deep-m6-2-earthquake-hits-santiago-del-estero-argentina/
If someone believes in the Lord God they would follow his 10 commandments. Notice the 6th commandment which says, “You shall not murder”. Anyone who is carrying a baby and makes the choice to end the babies life when both the baby and mother are healthy have made the choice to KILL that baby. This act by the mother falls under the 6th commandment. When you end someones life take to heart you are ending a life that God has created. Jesus Christ knows every child that has been murdered by the mother as the word of God tells us the Lord knew them before they were even born.
Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you, before you were born I set you apart;I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
Psalm 139:13-14 13 For you created my inmost being;you knit me together in my mother’s womb.14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful,I know that full well.
Anyone can call themselves a pastor but, you will know their true character by their actions. The report below talks about a female pastor who who says she felt God’s presence when she aborted two pregnancies. I have no question the Lord was in the room when this person who calls herself a pastor murdered her two babies. After reading the report I can clearly see this so called pastor try’s to justify what she did by attacking those who believe abortion is against everything that Christ stands for. In these last days we know from God’s word that many people will fall away from sound doctrine. Look at the word of God on this. 2 Timothy 4:3 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but having itching ears, they shall heap to themselves teachers in accordance with their own lusts. This is exactly what this so called pastor has done. This so called pastor we are told in the report below is also a Planned Parenthood advisor. I wonder how many other women this so called pastor lead other women to kill their babies? I can not end this section of my report today without saying that Jesus Christ will forgive anyone who repents from their sins. Only Christ know who the people are who really repent. The point is, I pray someday this women pastor goes to Christ in true repentance for the babies she has killed and, the women she may have encouraged to do the same thing.
PCUSA pastor teaches on Psalm 139, says she ‘felt God’s presence,’ ‘no sin’ after 2 abortions
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
Severe flooding kills three in Slovenia after one month’s worth of rain in 10 hours
At least three people have died in Slovenia due to severe flooding after more than a month’s worth of rain fell in just 10 hours on August 4, 2023. The catastrophic event caused evacuations, cut off roads, flooded buildings, and prompted the prime minister to describe the situation as ‘catastrophic.’ The floods could be the biggest since Slovenia’s independence in 1991. https://watchers.news/2023/08/05/severe-flooding-kills-three-in-slovenia-after-one-months-worth-of-rain-in-10-hours/
A Generation With Depraved Minds
Romans chapter 1:26-28 26 Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones.27 In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. 28 Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice.
In July 2023, Tampa, Florida experienced the warmest month ever recorded, with average high and low temperatures peaking at 1.5 °C (2.7 °F) above the norm. The lack of expected summer rainfall is a significant contributing factor to the record heat.
The city of Phoenix has brought in refrigerated containers as backup storage for bodies as the city continues to battle soaring temperatures reaching above 110F.
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in The stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the Sea and the waves roaring;
A rare tornado hit the town of Ilirska Bistrica, Slovenia at around 20:00 UTC on August 1, 2023, resulting in substantial damage. Luckily, there were no injuries reported. This is the first confirmed tornado to hit Slovenia since August 20, 2014.
Historic rainfall in Hebei displaces 1.2 million people — more than a year’s worth in a couple of days, China
The remnants of Typhoon “Doksuri” battered northern China from July 29 to August 1, 2023, unloading an entire year’s worth of rainfall and triggering devastating floods. The worst affected were Beijing and Hebei’s Zhuozhou where more than 1.2 million people were evacuated. At least 30 people have lost their lives and more than 30 remain missing.
An intense earthquake swarm that began around the end of 2019 in the northeastern Noto Peninsula, Japan, has been tied to fluids released by ancient, or possibly unknown modern, magmatic activity. This finding, published in JGR Solid Earth, challenges previous assumptions that such seismic activity could not occur in areas devoid of volcanic activity for over 10 million years.
Anyone who’s been coming to my prophecy sites knows I have been warning you that the status quo on the temple mount is going to change. As a matter fact, for years, I’ve been putting up my warning before I show the news concerning new events about the temple mount. Just take a look below.
Hilary rapidly intensifies into hurricane with ‘significant’ impacts to Southern California, Southwest
