The Reason Why A Little Flock Goes To Heaven.
In 1968, the Watchtower Society published a study aid titled “The Truth That Leads To Eternal Life.” It was printed in Brooklyn, New York, with eight million copies during its first edition. These copies were distributed through out the world to be used when conducting home studies with potential converts. It was the first book I studied and it had an enormous impact on my beliefs for the next thirty years. I think it is important to dissect individual chapters and deeply examine the materials that are being presented to determine if they are in harmony with the Scripture. The following is a study of the ninth chapter titled “The Reason Why A Little Flock Goes To Heaven.” The blue print below is the material presented in the chapter we are to discuss.
While Jesus Christ was yet with his followers here on earth, he spoke to them about heavenly life. He told them that he was going to prepare a place for them for them and that, in time they would be there with him {John 14:1-3}. Millions of persons have set their hearts on such heavenly life. To them it has represented a prospect of relief from the troubles of this life. But do you know why God has arranged for some persons to go to heaven? Do you know what they will do there?
It is true that while on earth Jesus spoke and taught about heavenly life. In fact he spoke much on the subject. If we take this passage literally we imagine heaven as an entire subdivision of elaborate mansions. Heaven is not about a five star accommodations, it is about being in the presence of God. The main focus of Jesus’ comments was not on location but on relationship with God the Father and with him. Jesus speaks of the happiness of our heavenly relationship as being in his father’s house.
John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. {KJV}
By Jesus’ death God does not see us as enemies but as his children. God created us in his image, for glory, so when we go to “our father’s house” we will share in his glory.
Romans 5:1-2 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. {KJV}
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But do you know why God has arranged for some persons to go to heaven? Do you know what they will do there?
The question should not be if I knew why God arranged for only some people to go to heaven or what they will do there? It should be where did the writer get his information to come to this conclusion? The WTS gives no scriptural reference to this material, but states it as a fact that has been proven by scriptural evidence.
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During his earthly ministry Jesus said much about the “kingdom of God.” He taught his followers to pray that by means of the Kingdom, God’s will would be done here on earth. Thus, the earth would become a delightful home for mankind. But the kingdom, or government itself, would be that of God in heaven, and for this reason Jesus often referred to it as the “kingdom of the heavens.”{Matthew 5:20; 6:9, 10}
Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. {KJV}.
Mattew6:9-10. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. {KJV}
Yes Jesus did speak often about the kingdom of God. He also did state that the kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, is part of the Lord’s Prayer that Jesus taught his followers to pray. It is not; by the means of thy kingdom let your will be done. When the WTS writers inserted “by the means” he changed the meaning to read that God needs the kingdom to compete his will. God is sovereign and does not need a catalyst to bring about his will. Jesus said, “God is a spirit and we must worship him in spirit and truth.” The kingdom of heaven is God’s spiritual reign where we will dwell in His presence. In Revelation John sees the old heaven and the old earth pass away and see a new heaven and a new earth. Where is it stated in Revelation that God somehow transported all of the survivors of Armageddon onto this new earth. If God is omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient why does he need to set into motion a government to rule his people when God himself will dwell amongst us? God did not need a government in the past, does not need a government. Now, therefore, what verses did the WTS read to come to the interpretation that God needs a government in the future. Jesus did not refer to the kingdom of heaven as the kingdom of the heavens. By substituting kingdom of the heaven{s} for kingdom of heaven we now envision a physical kingdom vs Gods kingdom which is spiritual. When doing a search I did not find any verse where Jesus referred to it as “the kingdom of the heavens.”
Rev 21:1-3 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. {KJV}
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This helps us to understand what he meant when he said: “Have no fear, little flock, because you’re Father has approved of giving you the kingdom.”{Luke 12:32} Yes God would give this “little flock” a share in the heavenly government over all mankind.
Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. {KJV}
Luke 12:32 is taken out of context. Read from verse 22 to understand what Jesus is really teaching his disciples. Jesus was teaching and highlighting what his followers should consider their priorities. All their goals and priorities should be entrusted to God who promises to meet their needs. His statement “don’t worry” did not imply a lack of concern, or not to rely on each other but that these things should not take a priority to serving God. Jesus told his disciples to make the Kingdom their primary concern and God would provide the necessities for faith and service. When we have our priorities right we can trust that God will care for us. The Kingdom is worth making our priority. Those who faithfully follow him would one day receive the Kingdom. The Kingdom is a reality his followers need not to fear because our Father finds great pleasure in giving it to them. Note at this moment in time “the little flock” was all there when it came to the followers of Christ. Christ did not tell them that they will exclusively receive the kingdom themselves. It would be to all that follow Jesus Christ. There is a difference between “the Father finds good pleasure to give you the Kingdom,” and “your Father has approved of giving you the kingdom.” The first is not final as the second. When we take the first in context with the previous verses we conclude that Jesus is talking about all followers. In the second {NWT}, God has made final approval of giving the kingdom to only the “little flock.”
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At Revelation 20:6 we read concerning those who would be resurrected to heavenly life: “They will be priest of God and of Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years.”{NWT} Jesus Christ is the principal king and the high priest, and these faithful ones taken from the earth serve with him. - Revelation 5:9, 10.
Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.{KJV}
Rev 5:9-10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.{KJV}
Notice that in the NWT the words “as kings” are inserted. The KJV does not mention kings. The WTS is misinterpreting the message in this verse. Note in Rev20:4 who these priest are that will reign with Jesus for a thousand years.
Rev 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.{KJV}
These are the saints who in the face of adversity did not compromise their relationship with Jesus and by doing so gave their lives for their faith.
Mat 5:11-12 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.{KJV}
Rev1:6. And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.{KJV}
Rev.6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.{KJV}
In the Greek there are two words used for king. One is a verb basileuvw which implies the act of reigning and the other a noun basileuvß which is used for king. In Rev. 5:10, 20:4, 6 the verb is used to imply the action of reigning. But in what capacity do they reign? Note that they reign as priest of God and Jesus, not as a government. In Rev 1:6, 5:10 we need to define what the meaning of king is.
The oldest manuscripts read Rev. 1:6, 5:10 as “a kingdom.” The Alexandrian copy and Complutensian edition read, "a kingdom, priests", the Vulgate Latin version, "a kingdom and priests", and the Arabic version, "a kingdom of priesthood". Thus it seems preferable, “He made us {to be} a kingdom of priest. Each member of this true kingdom is a priest unto God, with direct access to him at all times. And they shall reign on the new earth. These priests shall reign with Christ and the saints that were slain because of their faith in Christ. It does not mention any JW.
Rev 20:4-6. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.{KJV}
And they shall reign for ever and ever. What an eternal reward that the saints have whatever their sufferings they have eternal glory. They shall reign as priest in the service of God and the Lamb for ever and ever.
Rev 22:3-5 And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.{KJV}
Ex. 19:6. And ye shall be unto me a kingdom
of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words
which thou shalt speak unto the children of
1Pet.2:9. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;{KJV}
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When we conduct a search of the Greek for “kingdom” we find eight matches.
The New Testament Greek Lexicon
Found 8 entries matching: kingdom
English Translation Original Word Transliterated
gospel of the Kingdom eujaggevlion euaggelion
kingdom (of God) basileiva basileia
kingdom (of heaven) basileiva basileia
kingdom (general or evil) basileiva basileia
(Thy or Thine) kingdom basileiva basileia
the kingdom basileiva basileia
(My) kingdom basileiva basileia
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When we conduct a search of the Greek we find two matches for the work king.
The New Testament Greek Lexicon
Found 2 entries matching: king
English Translation Original Word Transliterated Word
king basileuvß basileus
King (of Jews) basileuvß basileus
King (God or Christ) basileuvß basileus
King (of
king basileuvw basileuo
Below is the meaning of basileubvw and where it is found in the Bible.
The KJV New Testament Greek Lexicon
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Below are the verses where basileuvw is found in the book of Revelation.
KJV Verse Count
Greek Word:
Basileuvw
Transliterated Word: basileuo
Book to Display: Revelation
Verse Count: 7
| Re 5:10 |
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. |
| Re 11:15 |
And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. |
| Re 11:17 |
Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reign ed. |
| Re 19:6 |
And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reign eth. |
| Re 20:4 |
And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reign ed with Christ a thousand years. |
| Re 20:6 |
Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. |
| Re 22:5 |
And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. |
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Why are they chosen from the earth for such a work? Because it was here at this earth that Jehovah’s ruler ship was challenged. It was here that the faithfulness of men of God could be put to the test under opposition from the Devil. It was here that Jesus proved his full loyalty to God under test and gave his life as a ransom for mankind. So it was from this earth that Jehovah arranged to take a “little flock” of persons to be associated with his Son in the heavenly kingdom. They are persons who show full faith in God’s provision for salvation through Christ. They are ones whose lives prove the Devil a liar when he charged that men serve God only for selfish advantage. Jehovah has marvelously purposed to use them for his glory. Ephesians 1:9-12.
The defining reason these saints were chosen is because these saints gave their lives up instead of their relationship with Christ {Rev. 6:9-10}. Jehovah’s sovereignty was challenged first in heaven by Satan when he rebelled against God. As far as proving the faithfulness of mankind the only logical answer would be here on earth. Who put the faithfulness of men to the test? Is the writer insinuating that God puts us to the test? By God’s own grace he offers us salvation through the acceptance of faith in Jesus Christ. It does not matter the amount of time or degree we are tested, we will never be righteous in God’s sight without the redemption that was achieved by Jesus Christ.
Rom 3:22-24 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:{KJV}
Ask yourself the questions. Where else but on this earth would God chose to take any person up to heaven to be with him? What constitutes these men and women to be called saints was not of God’s choosing but of their own. It was up to them to defend or deny God or Jesus. They choose not to deny their faith and by so lost their lives.
Rev. 6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.{KJV}
Both saints and believers show full faith in God’s provision for salvation. It is by faith that we are justified. Not by action.
{Romans 4:16-24.}
The writer tries to justify his statements by trying to tie it in with Ephesians 1. It is important to always know the setting of what we are reading. In Ephesians 1 Paul praises God for all he has done for us in Jesus Christ. Paul uses “us” to refer to Jews and Gentiles alike, “we” to refer to Jewish believes, {Paul being one of them}, and “you” to refer to Gentiles only.
If we read Ephesians 1 with this new understanding we can understand and appreciate the message Paul is conveying to the church of Ephesus. How the WTS writer ties his ideas to Ephesians is questionable.
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As kings and priest under the direction of Jesus Christ, they will serve from their heavenly positions in carrying out Jehovah’s will toward mankind. How wonderful it will be to have as rulers those who have proved faithful to God! {Revelation 20:4} And how loving of God to put in office those who have experienced the problems common to humankind! Surly, they, like Christ, will deal in an understanding way with their subjects. {Hebrews 2:17, 18}. What a blessing it will be to the inhabitants of earth as these heavenly priests apply to them the benefits of Christ’s ransom sacrifice, healing them spiritually, mentally, and physically until they reach perfection! {Rev. 21:2-4}
When reading this paragraph the reader envisions a group of people governing the earth on behalf of God. The writer calls them rulers. But if we read further in Rev. 21 we find that God dwells with man. {Rev. 21:3}. If God is going to dwell among men then why does he need a government to convey his wishes? Rev 20:4 explains that those who are the saints that will be priest of God and Christ {Rev20:6}. They shall reign as priest not as rulers. These are individuals that showed great courage and faith in God and did not deny their faith. These were not ordinary situations that these men and women found themselves in. I do not understand how the writer could come to this conclusion. Could it be that the JW have not experienced any of the things described in Rev. 20:4? Who will heal men spiritually, mentally, until they reach perfection? Will it be these priests? No it will be God alone. In Rev. 21:4-5 we read that God alone shall make all the things that bring sorrow pass away. Note in verse 5 that whoever sits on the throne makes all things new. Not a group of rulers or priest just God himself. The writer should have given evidence to support his idea that these rulers will heal God’s chosen people.
Rev 20:4-6. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.{KJV}
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How Many Go To Heaven?
Those who are called by God to share in such heavenly service are few in number. As Jesus said, they are a “little flock.” Years after his return to heaven, Jesus made known the exact number in a vision to the apostle John, who wrote: “I saw, and, look! the Lamb standing upon the Mount Zion and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand…who have been bought from the earth.” {Revelation 14:1-3} The “Lamb” referred to here is, of course, Jesus Christ; and this “Mount Zion” is not on earth, but in heaven where Jesus is. {John 1:29; Hebrews 12:22} So the 144,000 are persons who die on earth as humans and are resurrected to heavenly life as spirit creatures, as Jesus was. {Romans 6:5}. When compared with the thousands of millions of persons who live on earth, they are, indeed, a “little flock.”
Here we have total confusion. The writer either
did not study his Bible or totally missed the message. The “little flock”
was a descriptive comment used by Jesus to refer to the apostles at that particular
moment. It was not meant to be used as a continuous description of true believers.
Note that this reference is not used anywhere else in the Bible. The “little
flock” has nothing in common with the 144,000 of Revelation 14. Is it a coincidence
that the writer does not refer to Revelation 7:4-8? These 144,000 come 12,000
from each of the 12 tribes of
Rev 20:4. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.{KJV}
Revelation 20:4 describes who these saints are. The WTS says that these saints are the 144,000. Carefully study this verse and we understand the reason why these saints were martyred. They preached the word of God continuously in the face of adversity and refused to worship the beast, his image or receive his mark upon their foreheads and hands.
Rev. 13:15-16.. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 16. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:{KJV}
The WTS teaches that the gathering of the 144,000 began at Pentecost and was concluded in 1935. If this is so then these 144,000 should include those who refused the mark of the beast. For them to refuse the mark of the beast the mark had to have been offered. And if offered then many should have accepted the mark of the beast as it is written in Rev. 13. Does the WTS have proof that anyone has received the mark of the beast according to Rev. 13? For the gathering of the 144,000 to be complete the prophecy found in Revelation 20 must come true. If the prophecy of Revelation 20 has come to pass then logically the prophecy of Revelation 13 has been completed. Does the WTS have proof that the events found in chapter 13 have come to pass. If the events or Revelation did not occur then it would be premature to state that the so called 144,000 are complete.
If we compare the total number of people born from Adam to now, to the total number of believers that ever lived, we can refer to all the believers as a “little flock.” Another statement taken out of context that does not bind only to this doctrine but can be easily applied to any bogus idea.
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However, the “little flock” who go to heaven are not the only ones who receive salvation. As we have seen, they will have happy earthly subjects. Jesus referred to these as his “other sheep,” of whom “a great crowd” are even now serving God faithfully. John 10:16 Revelation 7:9, 15.
In John 10, Jesus uses “sheep” and “folds” to refer to two different groups of believers. Before verse 16, Jesus is speaking of the Jewish nation. In verse 16 Jesus is referring to the Gentiles. Note in verse 16 that when Jesus unites the Gentile fold with the Jewish fold they shall be one fold with one shepherd. The united fold will comprise of Jewish and Gentile believers. How can the first fold rule from heaven over the second fold on earth when Jesus said he will unit both folds into one? If they are one fold then they are in one place. The WTS teaches that the “great crowd” mention in Revelation 7:9 is composed of believers that will live on earth and be ruled by the 144,000 from heaven. In verse 9 the crowd stands before the Lamb and the throne. In verse 15 the crowd is before the throne of God. In Rev. 4:2 we read that the throne is in heaven. Obviously the great crowd is in heaven before the throne of God. A common response from the JW is that the crowd is on earth standing before God who is in heaven. They believe that all of creation stands before the throne of God. I don’t think that God would mention the location of the great crowd before the throne if it was meant to be taken in such a general sense. Let us look at Rev 19:1, 6 which states:
Rev 19:1. And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:{KJV}
Rev 19:6. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. {KJV}
Revelation 19 clearly states that the great crowd is in heaven.
When we combine all the evidence from John 10 and Revelation 19 we can only come to the conclusion that the “great crowd” or “great multitudes” are referred to be only in heaven.
HOW ONE KNOWS WHETHER HE IS OF THE “LITTLE FLOCK”
Members of the “little flock” know that God has called them to heavenly life. How? By means of the operation of God’s spirit, which implants and cultivates in them the hope of heavenly life. The apostle Paul, as one of the “little flock” wrote: “The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that were God’s children, If, then, we are children, we are also heirs, heirs indeed of God, but joint heirs with Christ, provide we suffer together that we may also be glorified together.”{Romans 8:16-17} The operation of God’s spirit changes the entire outlook of such a person, so that his thoughts and prayers are centered upon serving God with the heavenly hope in view. Being with Christ in heaven is more important to him than any earthly ties.
Where in the Bible does Paul refer to himself as a member of this little flock? After conducting a search, I found no verse in which Paul refers to himself as a member of this flock. The letter to the Romans was written by Paul to all members of the church in Rome. No where in the epistle does Paul state that he is sharing his wisdom to any special group of people. In chapter 8 of Romans Paul is addressing the subject of walking after the Spirit. If we note verse 9 the Spirit of Christ has to dwell in us in order for us to be considered on of his own. Verse 14 states that those lead by the Spirit of God are called the sons of God. Note that in verse 9 it is the Spirit of Christ, while in verse 14 it is the Spirit of God. Here is evidence of the Trinity. If we are to follow the WTS rule that the Spirit is God’s “active force”, then the question is, does Jesus have an active force in verse 9? Paul wrote verses 14-17 to all the believers in Rome. Paul is not addressing himself to this future “little flock.”
If the “little flock” is to be joint heirs with Christ, to be glorified together with Christ, then we should find other references to this in the Bible.
Ephesians 2:3. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.{KJV}
In Ephesians 2:3 note “Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the list of our flesh….” Is Paul referring to just a small group or to all “the faithful in Christ.”
Ephesians 1:1. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus :{ KJV}
In chapter 2:5-7, note that the “we all” {verse 3} were dead to sin, raised together with Christ, and made us sit in heavenly places together with Christ. And where do we sit together with Christ. Chapter 1 verse 20- 21, explains how high God has set Jesus. If we are raised together with Jesus and sit together with Jesus {Eph.2:5-7} then {Eph 1:20, 21} also applies to where we sit, for we sit together with Christ. If Eph. 2:3 states “we all” then it is only logical to conclude that all the blessing mentioned in Ephesians or Romans are directed to all believers not a “little flock.” It should be every believer’s prayer that the Holy Spirit changes them so that every thought and prayer is centered upon praising and serving God with the heavenly hope of being with Christ. If this is the hope of the 144,000 then what is the hope of the rest of the Jehovah’s Witnesses?
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No doubt you have thought about this matter, and perhaps you have wondered whether you are one who will receive heavenly life. Before one can properly analyze his situation, he needs an understanding of what the Bible teaches on this matter. Why? Because God’s holy spirit that bears witness that one has been called to heavenly glory is the same spirit that directed the writhing of the Bible. With this in mind let us examine the situation.
Mat 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. {KJV}
Mat21: 7 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Mat 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. {KJV}
Heb. 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city {KJV}
Matthew 5:20 teaches that we must be righteous to enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 21:7 teaches that we must do the will of our heavenly Father to enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 8:11 teaches that the Gentiles will also be included in the kingdom of Heaven. Nowhere does it state in these verses or any other verse that God will choose a special group of believers to rule from heaven. Therefore heavenly life is offered to all that confess Jesus Christ, and receive salvation which is offered by grace and accepted by faith. Hebrew chapter 11 is speaking of the patriarchs of the Old Testament. In verse 16 they will be part of a heavenly country. These individuals died long before Pentecost. If we are to follow the WTS teachings these individuals do not qualify to go to heaven because it was at Pentecost that God started to gather his “little flock.” Then it is logical to conclude based on the Bible that all believers have a heavenly reward.
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In the past did you believe that all good persons go to heaven? If so, and if you endeavored to live a good life, you may well have expected to be included among them. You man also have hoped in this way to be reunited with loved ones whom you had lost in death. But when you had that expectation, did you know that the Bible says that such faithful servants of God as King David and John the Baptist did not go to heaven? {Acts 2:29, 34: Matthew 11:11}. At that time did you know that only 144000 chosen from among mankind over the pasts nineteen centuries would gain heavenly life? And did you know then that the Bible holds out hope of eternal life under righteous conditions here on earth for all others who would become faithful servants of God? {Psalm 37:10, 11, 29; 36:10, 11, 29}.
Besides faith, good works, obiedence to God and so forth, the most important thing that we need in order to go to heaven and be with Christ is our relationship with him. When we have our relationship straight with Jesus everything else falls into place.
Matt.7:22 many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? {KJV}
Matt. 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.{KJV}
In Matt. 7; 22-23 Jesus is referring to the day of the Lord when people will state that their works and deed are good enough to enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus says to them “You did not have a relationship with me so I do not know you, depart.” Acts 2:29-34 is part of Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost. Peter is referring to Psalms 16:8-11 where David speaks prophetically about Jesus. David was speaking not of himself, but of Jesus. In Acts 2:27, it speaks of Jesus not being left for dead or his body decomposing, but of him being resurrected. In verse 29, Peter reminds his listeners that David could not be speaking of himself in Psalms 16 as the one who was resurrected because he is still dead. This is reinforced in Acts 2:30-33. In verse 34, Peter states again that David was not the one resurrected in Psalms 16 because he was not the one who ascended to heaven and sits at the right hand of the Father. Verse 34 echoes Psalms 110:1 where David speaks of God “The Lord” who said unto Jesus “my Lord” sit thou on my right hand.
Matthew 11:11 is simple; it does not state that John the Baptist is
not going to heaven. What it states is that the most insignificant person
in the Kingdom of Heaven would have a greater spiritual
blessing because this person would have seen and known the finished work of
Jesus Christ. John would die before seeing Jesus’ death, resurrection and
inauguration of his Kingdom.
John 8:56. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.{KJV}
Here Jesus states that Abraham saw Jesus and was glad. Where was Abraham when he was glad? He was in heaven.
Mark 9:4. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus.{KJV}
This verse is part of the transfiguration of Jesus before Peter, James and John {Mk 9:1-10}. From were did Elias and Moses come from? Det. 34:5 states that Moses died and was buried. We know that Elijah was taken up into heaven, but where did Moses come from if he was dead and buried? His spirit came from heaven.
Rev20:11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.{KJV}
Rev 21: 1. And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.{KJV}
Matthew 24:35. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.{KJV}
In Matthew 24 Jesus plainly states that heaven and earth will pass away. In Revelation 20:11 it states that heaven and earth will pass away.
Revelation 21:1 states that a new heaven and earth will appear for the first heaven and earth passed away. The question is, did the WTS writers know about these verses? Or did they deliberately not give them consideration when they wrote this book?
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When you were then thinking about heavenly life for yourself, did you believe in the immortality of the human soul? Then, understandably, you may have hoped that your soul would go to heaven. But if you had such a hope it was not because God’s spirit was bearing witness to you. To the contrary, as you now know, God’s inspired Word says that the human soul dies and goes out of existence. So those who die must depend on God to resurrect them to whatever plane he wills of them. {Ezekiel 18:4; 1 Corinthians 15:35-38.}
Matt.22:31,32 But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.{KJV}
In Matthew 22:23-33 Jesus is speaking with the Sadducees. The Sadducees believed only in the Pentateuch. The believed in Genesis through Deuteronomy as Scripture. They did not believe in the resurrection because there is no mention of it in the Pentateuch. The Sadducees asked a question regarding the resurrection, which had an underlying comment regarding their view of the absurdity of the resurrection. The Sadducees needed a definite answer to their irrelevant question. Jesus pointed out that our heavenly life is not an extension of our life here on earth. Our relationships here on earth are limited by time and death. Regarding the resurrection Jesus went right to the point. Jesus quoted Exodus 3:6. God would not have said, “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob”, if Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were dead. If they were dead God would have said, “I was the God of Abraham, and was the God of Isaac, and was the God of Jacob”. God spoke of these men as if they were alive, not dead. God would not have a relationship with dead men. Even though believers die here on earth, God continues his relationship with them in heaven. Did the Holy Spirit really bear witness to the writers of this book, or are they as confused as the Sadducees.
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In this matter, then, we must look to the Scriptures for guidance and not let emotions or a background of unscriptural beliefs, confuse our thinking. Those who receive heavenly life are not persons who choose it for themselves; God is the one who does the choosing. {2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14}. They are called on to leave behind close family members and friends and all earthly things for the privilege of sharing as assistant kings and under priests with Christ and as part of his “bride”. {Revelation 21:2} That is what God has set before them, and they show deep appreciation for it. But it is not necessary to be of that heavenly group to gain relief from the troubles of this life. God loves his earthly “other sheep” too. He promises that he is going to make this earth a paradise, where pain and sorrow will be no more. The facts show that it is principally to such an earthy hope of life that God has been pointing person in recent years.
Obviously the writers did not look to Scripture for guidance and let their ignorance confuse their thinking. By quoting 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 the writers are touching on the subject of predestination. What does it mean to be chosen? What keeps foreknowledge and predestination from being determinism? Does the act of God choosing us take anything away from our ability to choose? God’s foreknowledge of us does not imply determinism, the idea that all our choices are predetermined and in so our future is predetermined. God operates outside of time, and he sees past, present and future at the same time. God’s purpose for mankind was not an afterthought but was concluded before the creation. In 2 Thessalonians, Paul gives thanks that God had chosen the Thessalonians believers to be among the first to experience salvation. This does not imply that God will chose where we will experience our eternal reward. The writers should also include Scripture where God instructs us to leave our family, friends and earthly possession behind in search of this heavenly appointment. Or is this the WTS way of preparing the new believer to leave all ties behind and yoke themselves together with other servants of the WTS. Revelation 20:11 clearly states that the present heaven and earth will pass away. Revelation 21:1 also clearly states that a new heaven and a new earth will appear because the first heaven and earth has passed away. It would be good for the writer to explain what facts led him to the conclusion that God wants us to live on this earth.
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However, each year, on the anniversary of Christ’s death, the few remaining members of the “little flock” yet on earth keep the Memorial of Christ’s death. As Jesus directed, they partake of unleavened bread and red wine, which are symbols representing the flesh and blood that Jesus gave for mankind. Jesus said to those whom he instructed to partake of these emblems that he was making “a covenant for a kingdom’; so those who are not heirs of the heavenly kingdom do not partake of the emblems. {Luke 22:19, 20, 29}. Nevertheless, those who look forward to earthly life as present each year in large numbers as observers at the Lord’s evening meal. As one who is keenly interested in life under the heavenly kingdom, you to should be in attendance.
John 6:51-54. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, how can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Who so eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. {KJV}
Here Jesus clearly states that unless we partake of the Lord’s Supper as a sign of our acceptance of Jesus’ new covenant, we will not have eternal life. There is no metaphoric symbol that should be misinterpreted; Jesus makes it very clear what is expected of us when it comes to communion.
1Corinthians 11:23-29 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. {KJV}
The Corinthians were in disagreement on how to celebrate the Lord’s Supper. There was a division between the rich and the poor and this was causing them to lose focus on the purpose of communion, remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. So Paul passed on to them what Jesus himself said regarding the celebration of the Lord’s Supper.
Because the Lord’s Supper is commemorated in remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice which was given for the redemption of this sinful world, it should not be taken lightly. Note the warning found in verses 28 and 29. What a shame that millions congregate each year in kingdom halls and bypass the body and blood of Christ which Jesus commanded us to eat and drink in remembrance of him, of which without they will not have eternal life. Also the sadness that many Jehovah’s Witnesses partake of the Lord’s Supper unworthily, with wrong intentions and false hopes they eat and drink themselves into damnation.
In Luke chapter 22 verse 29 of the NWT it
states that Jesus made a covenant only with the apostles, that because of
their faithfulness they will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of
Luke 22:29-30 “and I make a covenant with
you, just as my Father has made a covenant with me, for a kingdom. that you
may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones to judge the
twelve tribes of
There is an enormous difference between the translation of the NWT and the KJV.
Luke 22:29-30. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as
my Father hath appointed unto me; That ye may eat and drink at my table in
my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of
What kingdom is being appointed unto the disciples? Is the Kingdom being given exclusively unto them or unto a limited group as the WTS claims?
Romans 8:14-17. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.{KJV}
The WTS writers state in the above paragraph that only the 144,000 will be heirs of the kingdom of heaven. In Romans Paul says that all true believers are adopted children of God, who can call him Father. And we know this to be true because the Holy Spirit within us tells us it is so. Verse 17 says it all. The Jews were convinced that they were to receive the Lord’s inheritance. Paul states that all who believe in Jesus Christ both Jew and Gentile are God’s children and his heirs and joint heirs with Christ, in the Kingdom of Heaven.
James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?{KJV}
Here James does not use monetary status to determine who will inherit the kingdom of heaven. The key here is that whoever is rich in faith and loves God will inherit the kingdom of heaven.
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THE RETURN OF CHRIST
In the evening before his death Jesus Christ promised eleven faithful members of the “little flock” that he would come again, saying: “I am going my way to prepare a place for you…I am coming again and will receive you home to myself, that where I am you also may be.”—John 14 2, 3.Will this be a visible, physical return? Some may point out that Revelation 1:7 says “Look! He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him.” Does this mean that they will see him literally with their physical eyes? The Bible speaks not only of seeing with our physical eyes, but of seeing in the sense that we understand or discern. Jesus showed that the religious Pharisees of his day were blind although they said, “We see.” They were spiritually blind. {John 9:39-41; Isaiah 43:8}. It is in such a sense of spiritual seeing that Revelation 1:7 is to be understood. “Every eye” is made to “see” him because, even thought they may refuse to show faith now, when Christ executes the wicked, they will know what is happening because they have been told in advance. However, that Jesus would not visibly return he himself made clear, saying: “A little longer and the world will behold me no more, but you will behold me, because I live and you will live.” {John 14:19} Mankind in general would behold him no more because he was going to return to heaven. But the “little flock” would behold him because he was going to take them to be with hem there.
The above is unmistakable proof that the Pharisees are not the only ones that are spiritually blind. The writers of the WTS cannot see and by so cannot discern or understand what they read and dare to teach others their ideas as truth. In Matthew 24 Jesus tells his disciples about the signs of his coming and the end of the world. No one could predict by science or scripture the coming of Jesus. The emphasis is on preparation not calculation.
Matt. 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. {KJV}
Jesus warned his disciples not to be misled by false prophets. Because people will be looking for a sign of his coming, they will become susceptible to deception.
Matt 24:4. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. {KJV}
Many believers will be misled by false prophets coming in Jesus’ name possessing counterfeit signs of spiritual power and authority. They will claim to receive messages from God, but they will say what people want to hear.
Matt 24:5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 11. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. {KJV}
Jesus’ coming will be obvious, unexpected, sudden, and in a twinkle of an eye be seen by all, just as if lightning would flash from the eastern horizon across the sky to the western horizon, filling the whole space. So will the return of the Christ be. He will not be in any secret place or out in the desert. His return will be unmistakable. The verses below cannot be more clearly stated.
Matthew 24:26, 27 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.
For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 30. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. {KJV}
1 Thessalonians 4:16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first :{ KJV}
Rev.1:7. Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. {KJV}
. I don’t see where Jesus state that he will not return physically. There is no scriptural proof to defend the idea that Jesus is not returning physically. The return of Jesus invisibly to earth is an excuse used to cover the many errors committed by the WTS in its predictions of when Jesus was returning. What Jesus was stating in John 14:19 is that the men of the world will see him no more until the time that he shall come in the clouds of heaven to judge the world.
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So Christ’s return does not mean that he returns as a man to live on earth. Rather, it means that he takes up his kingly rule toward the earth an that he resurrects his “little flock” from the dead to their reward in the heavens. There they share in carrying out the loving purpose of God by means of his kingdom. You are living in the time when you, too, can experience blessing from that Kingdom rule. {Revelation 11:15-18}
It is wrong to limit the reason why Jesus returns to his kingly rule and to his resurrecting the “little flock”. The most rewarding aspect of Jesus’ return is that our deepest desire to be in God’s presence will come true. It is indescribable to explain the joy of living in Gods presence, so Revelation explains what will not be there.
Rev. 21:3-4. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. {KJV}
Det 18:20-22. But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the Lord hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him. {KJV}
When a false prophet is caught he will say, “I made a mistake or miscalculated, but it’s Ok because the Lord has restored me to my office of prophet. You have to follow me again because I speak prophetically for the Lord.”
This is the reason the Lord said you shall never be afraid of him again. Because the Lord does not want us to be constantly misled by false prophets, he tells that if this prophet makes a statement on his own, the Lord will not use him again. The Lord constituted this for our protection. Anyone who is not 100% accurate and claims to be a prophet or work in “the Prophetic” is dangerous. The WTS sincerely thinks God is speaking through them, but it is really their imagination. Remember that the ones seeking after these prophets after knowing that the prophets are wrong will be punished just as severely as the prophets themselves.
I invite you to deeply review what you have been taught. If it is not in harmony with Scripture, question it. If it is truly form God, God will reveal the evidence to you. God rejoices whenever one of his children comes home. Make sure you are on the right journey that will lead you to your Father’s house.
Sources for the Greek translation: Elis Ultra Bible, Crosswalk.com, Thayer’s
and Smith’s Bible dictionary, and Theological Dictionary of the New Testament.
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