NO. 107: A TREATISE ON THE RESURRECTION

No. 107

My dear Brethren: – Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

The Harvest Truth made crystal clear the doctrine of the resurrection – of the righteous and the unrighteous – in a manner not understood since the days of the Apostles. The word 'resurrection' comes from the Greek anastasis, which means a raising up to life again, not a mere resuscitation as may be accomplished with a man drowned – a process made necessary by the existence of death in the human race. Rom. 5:12 tells us “death passed upon all men.” Thus, it is not through works of evil that we ourselves have done that we now die; just as it is not through “works of righteousness that we did” (Titus 3:5, Dia.) that we shall experience a resurrection from the dead. Clearly enough, the evil and the good in this matter operate in sim­ilar fashion: None of us were involved in the act of evil that brought the sentence of death; none of us were involved in the act of righteousness that brings salvation from death to all.

We are told in 1 Tim. 2:4 that God “desires all men to be saved, and come to an accurate knowledge of the Truth.” Saved from what, we ask? We answer, Man shall be saved only from that which he inherited through no fault of his own – reprieve and pardon from the sentence of death.  Inasmuch as Isa. 65:20 tells us that “the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed,” it is clear enough that not all will exper­ience a complete resurrection – a full raising up to life again as obtained with Adam in Eden. “God hath given assurance to all men” of pardon from the sentence, of re­lease from Hades, of an accurate knowledge of the Truth – of all things necessary to attain a resurrection, a full raising up to life again; but the actual possession of that full life will be dependent in the final analysis upon the choice of each indivi­dual himself. Others cannot withhold it from him; neither can others secure it for him. Thus, when it is stated that “even death, the last enemy, will be rendered powerless” (1 Cor. 15:26, Dia.), we must understand it to mean the complete removal and annihilation of every evil that has arisen as a result of the dying process.

We believe the annihilation of the dying process is clearly defined in Psalms 103:2-5: “Bless the Lord, 0 my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities (“the goodness and philanthropy of God...saved us”—Titus 3:4; Jesus was made a sin-offering to make satisfaction for the sins resulting from Adamic depravity); Who healeth all thy diseases (by removing immediately at the time of rais­ing from the tomb whatever disease or affliction had been the immediate cause of death. Thus, a man who had his head shot off, or whose lungs had been destroyed by cancer, and such like, could not be brought back in that condition, or he would immediately die again; therefore, such diseases would be “healed” gratuitously); Who redeemeth thy life from destruction (“I will ransom them from the power of the grave”—Hos. 13:14 – by curing every vestige of the Adamic death process); Who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies (by restoring to man what was lost in Eden; namely, (1) Fellowship with God, (2) Dominion over the brute creation, (3) A perfect home, with perfect life-rights, (4) Perfect life – “no more sighing, no more crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away”—).

DIFFERENT CLASSES OF “THE RIGHTEOUS”

It needs no argument to declare there will be many variations of “the unrighteous” in the resurrection – such are readily apparent even now, from the hardened criminal to the most refined and well-intentioned of the present social order. But there will also be distinct classes of “the righteous” – classes clearly defined in the Scriptures, who will receive the resurrection of “the just,” separate, superior and preceding the resurrection of “the Unjust.” The Harvest Truth clearly defined four such classes; namely, the Little Flock (the Bride or Body of Christ), the Great Multitude (those called to be of the Bride, but who failed for various reasons to prevail), the Ancient Worthies (those Old Testament characters who “suffered affliction” in their service to God), and the Youthful Worthies (those who came too late in the end of this Age to be of the Bride). While it is true that Brother Russell never used the designation Youthful Worthies, so far as we know, he did clearly define such a class, by whatever name any may wish to label them. We offer one quotation from him in proof of this contention in Reprints No. 5761 (Sept. 1, 1915 WT), under the caption:

THE TWO PARTS OF THE HARVEST WORK

“It is our thought that with the closing of the 'door' of this Gospel Age there will be no more begetting of the Holy Spirit to the spirit nature. Any afterward coming to God through consecration, before the inauguration of the restitution work, will be accepted by Him, not to the spirit plane of being, but to the earthly plane. Such would come in under the same conditions as the Ancient Worthies who were accepted of God. The Ancient Worthies came in, no call being opened to them – the High Calling not being yet open, and the restitution opportunities not open. (Note: It seems elementary that individual restitutionists cannot have opportunities until the inauguration of the Kingdom rule is made with the Worthies—JJH) But they freely gave themselves up to God without knowing what blessings their consecration would bring, except that they had the intimation that they would, in the future life, have a “better resurrection' than would the remainder of the world.

“Our thought is that whoever under such conditions as these will make a full consecration to the Lord, leave all to follow His way, and will live up faithfully, loyally to that consecration, may be privileged to be counted as a similar class to those who preceded this Gospel Age. We know of no reason why the Lord would refuse to receive those who make a consecration after the close of the Gospel Age High Calling and before the full opening of the Millennium.”

The foregoing is confirmed in E-4:342: “If our dear readers will keep in mind that the Tower's denial of Tentative Justification during this Age is the foundation of its rejecting the Scriptural doctrine that those faithful con­secrators from 1881 until restitution sets in, for whom there are no crowns avail­able, and hence no spirit-begetting for Gospel-Age purposes possible, will be the Millennial associates of the Ancient Worthies in reward and service, they will be able by Scriptural, reasonable and factual thinking completely to overthrow every argument that the article under review presents to defend its thesis.”

Brother Johnson also elaborates upon this resurrection subject in some consider­able detail as follows:

“We have been asked, in view of the fact that some will never reach the condi­tion of perfection, which the word resurrection means, how shall we understand the words of the Apostle Paul in Acts 24:15, that both the just and the unjust are to be resurrected? This Scripture seems very plain and simple if we give careful attention to what we read. Those Jews who stood by and heard the defense of the Apostle before Governor Felix, of which the words of Acts 24:15 are a part, believed that all of the just would have a resurrection, and that an opportunity of the resur­rection would be given the unjust. That is what they had been taught from their forefathers. And now the Apostle Paul was reiterating this, their conviction. He says, 'There shall be a resurrection, both of the just and the unjust'; that is to say, the resurrection for which God has provided, and which is yet to come, is not only for the good, but also for those who are now evil. The thought is not that those who remain in an unjust condition will be granted a full resurrection.

The text does not state that all the unjust will be resurrected, brought to perfec­tion of life. There are some now justified who will not have a share in the resur­rection, even as there are others who are not now justified who will have a share in the resurrection. And all mankind will have a share in God's provision for a resurrection. The just will have a special resurrection, which will be a reward for their special obedience. (Note: if Campers Consecrated are both justified and consecrated, then they would have a special resurrection as a reward for their obedience according to the Star Members' teachings—JJH)

“So we have the resurrection of the highest class of the just (the Justified) – ­the “little flock” – on the Divine plane; that of the Great Company, on a lower spirit plane; that of the Ancient and Youthful Worthies, on the earthly plane – ­four classes who pass their trial, their testing, in the present life. But it has been provided in the Divine Plan that the remainder of men may gradually be raised fully up, out of every frailty, back to the original perfection that Adam had in the beginning.  They are unjust now, they have never come into relationship with God. The Divine purpose is that the death of Jesus shall effect the release of the whole race from the condemnation in Father Adam.  Therefore the entire thousand years of the Millennial Reign of Christ has been set aside for the resurrection of the world. But how large a proportion will profit by this arrangement remains to be seen. The Scriptures state that during the next Age a sinner of a hundred years old – a willful sinner –shall be cut off from life altogether ...

THE RESURRECTION NOT EXPERIENCED BY ALL

“Note carefully that the Scriptures do not say that all shall participate in the resurrection .... Those who have pleased God in that they have exercised faith, have made consecration of themselves to the Lord, and have obeyed the leadings of His providences and His Word – these are the ones who have done good. God does not ask any more of them than that they shall show their loyalty by doing their best, and they shall seek to live in harmony with His will according to their ability, whether they lived during this Gospel Age or during the ages preceding. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the others (and all others less prominent) who are mentioned by St. Paul in Heb. 11 – these died in faith. With these Ancient Worthies God de­clares He was pleased, and that they shall have a ‘better resurrection.’ The super­iority of their resurrection will be that they will be awakened perfect human beings; while the world will have to go through the thousand years to attain perfection.

“They that have done good will come forth to a resurrection of life. Some of these will receive a resurrection of life on the human plane, others on the spirit plane, still others on the highest order of the spirit plane, – the plane of Divine nature. Then Jesus tells us about the other general class – those who have done evil. This includes all whom God cannot approve and accept. (Even according to R. G. Jolly's own contentions his Epiphany Campers Consecrated are counted in with “all whom God cannot approve and accept” in this life – since he teaches they will NOT receive the ‘better resurrection’—JJH) Those who are not accepted are those who have not done good, according to God's standard; They have done evil; they are unjustified. Many of them have been respectable, moral people but they are not worthy of the 'better resurrection.' These will come forth also that they may attain, if they will, complete raising up to life. They will be awakened from the tomb in order that they may have a resurrection. They will be resuscitated from Hades, the grave, the death state; but their awakening from the tomb will be only the beginning of resurrection. Some will be awakened only to die again later, be­cause of failure to accept God's terms of blessing. The Resurrection process will go on day by day, week by week, and year by year during those thousand years – the great Resurrection Day, that Great Day, the Last Day, during which there will be an opportunity for all to gain life eternal .... Thus there will be a resurrection, a bringing up to perfect life, both of just and of unjust ones .... The above pre­sentation is entirely in harmony with the literal translation of the last clause of Acts 24:15: 'There shall be a resurrection both of the just and unjust ones'; for the article the is lacking before the Greek words translated just and unjust.”

THE LAVER INDISPENSABLE

In the Court of the Tabernacle was to be found the Laver, which all Truth people know is a type of the Bible – Old and New Testaments. It not only served for those in the Court to wash themselves, but they could also see their image, much the same as in a mirror, thus typifying that those who honestly studied the Bible would not only be able to discern their blemishes, but would also be able to eliminate completely, or at least diminish, their fleshly failings by the ''washing of water by the word.” This they do by being stimulated by the “exceeding great and precious promises,” without which no one could properly fulfill a consecration – a “covenant by sacrifice” – under present conditions of evil. In substantiation, we quote from Jan. 1, 1950 PT, p. 3, col. 1:

“We find another proof and type in the vessels of the sanctuary. These are antityped in 2 Tim. 3:16: 'All scripture given by inspiration of God, is profitable for doctrine, for reproof (refutation), for correction, for instruction in righteousness.' The cups represent the doctrines, the bowls represent the refutations; the chargers represent the corrections; and the spoons represent the instructions in righteousness. These things, therefore, were pictured forth in the type, as we have just explained it. We find, too, that the articles of furniture connected with the Tabernacle were also consecrated things. First of all, we have in the court the brazen altar. This represents the sacrifice of the Christ, Head and Body, as viewed by those who are justified in the court. The laver in its foundation and shaft represents the Old Testament; and its bowl wherein the water was found represents the New Testament. This laver was used for all to wash therein; the justified who were in the court could wash in it; the consecrated of the Little Flock, i.e., those who were undergoing the experiences of self-sacrificingness used it; and the Great Company could also cleanse themselves in this antitypical laver. The antitypical laver, therefore, is a matter of importance for the cleansing of all of the classes that are in relationship with our Heavenly Father.”

If the above be true, then Campers Consecrated, whom R. G. Jolly says are fulfilling a “covenant by sacrifice” in the Camp, presents an impossible situation – ­a Biblical myth, and the class he advocates are simply spiritual hybrids. Ezek. 13:3 fits this case precisely: “Woe unto the foolish prophets (teachers), that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing.” His Campers Consecrated are “camping” without a laver; and, like all campers, without an established residence – they are camping in an unfurnished home.

To such as would follow R. G. Jolly in his revolutionism against clear Parousia and Epiphany teachings we can but quote Psa. 149:158: “I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word.” And companion to this is the word of the Prophet Amos (5:1,15—Rotherham): “Hear ye this word ... even a dirge, 0 house of Israel... Hate wrong and love right, and station justice in the gate (in your goings in and your comings out, even as Justice is the foundation of God's throne), peradventure Yahweh God of Hosts will be gracious unto the remnant of (antitypical) Joseph (a  special  appeal  to  those  remaining  few  who  still  adhere  to the teachings of Brother Johnson  in  the  end  of  this  Epiphany, The  Time  of  Trouble) – lest we should come under the condemnation of vs. 20: “Shall not the Day of Yahweh (the Time of Trouble – this Epiphany Day) be darkness (full of turmoil and error) and not light?” – darkness to those in error, and bright shining to those adhering to the Truth of antitypical Joseph (his faithful remnant).

With the Apostle Paul we now say: “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” (2 Thes. 2:15-17)

Sincerely your brother,

John J. Hoefle, Pilgrim

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QUESTION  OF  GENERAL INTEREST

QUESTION: – Is it correct to use the Scripture “Well done, good and faithful servant” when a Great Company member has finished his course?

ANSWER: – No, it is not correct; in fact, such usage is a clear revolutionism against Parousia Truth, as a scrutiny of Matt. 25:14-30 will readily determine. The Great Company members are not “good and faithful”; they are the measurably faithful. The very purpose of this parable is to establish the clear distinction between the two. Note Brother Russell's Berean Comment on v. 30: “Unprofitable servant – the Great Company Class. The Lord does not deny that he is a servant, nor does He charge him with being an enemy.” He simply wasn't “good and faithful:” that's all.

A companion text is Matt. 7:22,23: “Have we not taught in thy name ... done many wonderful works in thy name?” All during the Age it is the Great Company that “does great works, wins great numbers, gains great favor” (see E-15:525); but the answer comes in v. 23, “I never knew you.” The Diaglott states it correctly, “I never approved of you.” The Lord knows the Great Company well enough; they profess to be His servants; but He does not approve of their self-appointed titles and plans. Thus, they come under the condemnation of Prov. 26:3 (Rotherham) – “A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the back of dullards.” In Matt. 25:30 the servant with the “one talent” (the Great Company) is specifically accused of being “unprofitable” – a dullard.

In this connection, we quote a prediction by Brother Johnson in E-5:497: “By the time that the 60 groups of Levites will have been formed (of which the LHMM is self-admittedly one group—JJH), every feature of the Parousia Truth will have been repudiated and attacked by one or another of the 60 groups of Levite leaders.”  (This means that every one of them will be guilty – some more, some less—JJH)

Not only has R. G. Jolly repudiated the Truth on Tentative justification (he now places it in the Camp, and says it will continue to operate during the works dispensa­tion – whereas, it is distinctly a faith justification), on Psalms 46, and other items, but he now has perverted the Parousia Truth on the Parable of the Talents (Azazel means Perverter). For some time now he has been foisting himself into the “salt,” the “light” and the “us” class; so it should occasion no surprise that he now also boldly attempts to place himself and his kinsmen into the “good and faithful servant” class. Note, however, the clear contrast between such and the course of our Lord (Isa. 50:5, Rotherham): “I was not rebellious (I did not revolutionize), away turned I not (I did not leave the narrow way to promote my own schemes and purposes),” as the Great Company (the leaders in particular) has repeatedly done.

Certainly, it is not our wish to deprive any one of the glory that may justly be his; but we are determinedly opposed to power-graspers who would adorn themselves with a glory that is not theirs. Thus, we emphatically condemn R. G. Jolly for his revolutionism against the Parousia Truth on Matt. 25:14-30.

This also forces us to conclude from the Scriptures and the Star Members' teachings that any one who would apply our Lord's sayings to the Great Company, that fit only the Fully Faithful, would be out of harmony with His Truth and its Spirit – especially when they have full knowledge that they are Great Company. Nor could we honestly say that such a person was fully faithful to Parousia and Epiphany Truth if he is a self-admitted or clearly manifested crown-loser, because it is directly due to such unfaithfulness that they lost their crowns in the Parousia, with the same evil characteristics in added measure revealed in the Epiphany (mani­festing them as crown-losers), because the Epiphany is the time for “making manifest the counsels of hearts.” As Brother Johnson has correctly taught: They serve much better as unmanifested crown-losers, before they are driven from the Holy – after which they go from bad to worse until they are fully abandoned to Azazel, at which time they are ''very unfaithful” (See E-15:519, par. 1). Thus, the only logical conclusion concerning such is that their evils become more pronounced and recognizable after they lose the restraining hand of the Star Members. “By their fruits you will discover them.” (Matt. 7:16, Dia.)

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LETTERS  OF  GENERAL  INTEREST

Pilgrim Eschrich in Trinidad:

Dear Brother Hoefle: – Grace and peace in our Redeemer!

Here are some questions I had for Bro.  Eschrich when he was in Trinidad Feb. 20.

Knowing him as I do, I thought that he himself would benefit especially from Question No. 1. I learned, however, that he did not answer it, but simply advised the brethren to look up the references. If no more Priests are in the flesh, as is taught by them, and all Great Company now in the flesh are remanded to Second Death, What a calamity! Let us not be distressed, no man can change God's true Tabernacle. I understand question No. 2 was not answered at all. He agreed with the local teachers that the Youthful Worthies are on the Broad Way. I wonder if he ever read E Vol. 17, p. 171, 16 lines from top, In respect to Question No. 4, Progressive Tabernacle was stressed.  As to Question 5, he said that new creatures are on the narrow way. I may tell him strong objections are taken to putting Youthful Worthies on the Broad Way. It has left a big crack in his house.

Sr.------- got her answers in writing and Bro. Johnson’s teachings referred to, but he never forgot to tear out what did not suit him.

In a certain country I saw three full-sized pictures of three most prominent Bible Students –Star Member Johnson on the right, Star Member Russell in the center, and Levite Jolly on the left. All three on the same plane, instead of the Levite being on a much lower plane. How different on the Chart of the Ages in Parousia Vol. One... When I returned from that country I received a commendatory letter with a question or two. I mistakenly sent the questions to Levite Jolly and when I got his reply I had to set it aside, because he had fulfilled Ezek. 13:3. You see how Progressive Tabernacle has been built! The Advancing Truth does not set aside the Truth formerly received as some deceivers teach.  E. Vol. 9, p. 19, bottom.

In answering Sister’s question on antitypical Shadrach, Bro. Eschrich said that was fulfilled during the last two World Wars. In contradiction I say I have in my possession a paper from one of the 59 Levite groups, dated Nov. 1962, when one of its members was taken prisoner under Hitler.  The brother heard arrangements made for his death. He always kept Isa. 43:4 in memory, and when a ship with hundreds of prisoners on board was coming to take him, God caused the ship to sink, the brother was kept alive and wrote history in 1962 – twelve years after Brother Johnson’s demise. I have no doubt he is still alive. In the type Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego live through the fiery furnace.

I now close with much love for Sister Hoefle and all with you.

By His Grace,  L. F. Roach (TRINIDAD)

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ADDENDA

After the previous six pages had come from the printer there came to us J. W. Krewson's paper No. 55 a few days before the 1964 Memorial, the same bearing con­siderable “false witness” against us. Of course, we “think it not strange” that such diatribe should be leveled at us at this particular season of the year; in like manner also similar “false witness” was used by voluble leaders, motivated by unholy ambition, to crucify our Lord, and – 'As He was in this world, so are we.” At first we were inclined to pass this incident by, considering it too cheap and infamous for consideration; but, knowing that Brother Russell and Brother Johnson both defended themselves against slanderous attacks of character, so we now make answer to the scurrilous items to be found on page 29 of the paper in question – ­that our ministry be not blamed in the eyes of the Fully Faithful.

Here J. W. Krewson makes adroit attempt to cast us in similar mold with R. G. Jolly in 'vainly laying claim to the general teaching office”; but we remind our readers that at no time have we ever claimed more for ourselves than what the Lord conferred upon us through His Epiphany Messenger; namely, the office of Pilgrim, or General Elder in the Church, and we have produced our Pilgrim Certificate in proof of this claim. In the letter of transmittal that brought our certificate in the mail, Brother Johnson specifically stated that the Pilgrim appointment gave us full authority to address the General Church in any country on earth. More than this we have never attempted to do; nor will our readers find one instance where we have ever made pompous claims for ourself, or arrogated to ourself any authority not expressly delegated to us by the Lord through the Epiphany Messenger. At the same time we have noted that J. W. Krewson never received any such honor and privilege, and that his only basis for his present claims is what he himself sets forth; and we have only his own word for it. And – “When I open my lips, let no dog bark!” Of course, if he himself did not inform us of his greatness, no one would know about it; whereas, the General Church has known for many years that we were a Pilgrim in their midst without us ever once revealing the matter verbally or in printed page. View­ing this comparison, it is little wonder J. W. Krewson must inform his readers what a great personage he really is.

On former occasion we have shown clearly from 1 Sam. 14:50 that J.  W.  Krewson and R. G. Jolly are spiritual “cousins”; and their traits of character, their intimate similarity of technique, and their sponsorship of similar errors, with their clear revo­lutionism against many Parousia and Epiphany teachings, offers abundant proof that they are “cousins” indeed. And, while each of them has attempted to sully us as a teammate for his respective “cousin,” neither of them has up to now produced any substantial proof, Scriptural or otherwise, to support their claims.

After Brother Johnson's death we made long and repeated brotherly attempts to recover both the “cousins” from their “Path of error” (James 5:20, Dia.); and for quite sometime – after they began to disagree among themselves – both of them made determined effort to curry favor with us. And it was only after we became more adamant and outspoken against their sins of teaching and practice that the “cousins” both disfellowshiped us; WE DID NOT FIRST DISFELLOWSHIP THEM! But we also state with emphasis that at no time have we ever combined with either of them in their errors or revolutionisms against Parousia and Epiphany teachings – although they repeat­edly did so with each other. In fact, their major difference right now is which of them should be greatest; otherwise, they are even yet in many instances true collabor­ating “cousins” – each for his own quarter; whereas, we have administered crushing defeat to both of them on many of their respective errors, so it is little wonder we are now a common target for both of them. We instance now some soulmate errors of these renegade “kinsmen”:

(1) Both of them are contending the Little Flock has left the earth before Armageddon – ­a revolutionism against both Parousia and Epiphany Messengers. Thus, the both of them have “missed the mark with respect to the Truth, saying that the (first) resurrection has already happened; and they are perverting the faith of some.” (2 Tim. 2:18, Dia

This Scripture clearly declares there were false teachers in the beginning of the Age teaching perverse things about the resurrection – “The word of those men will eat like a mortifying sore” – and we are faced with an identical situation here in the end of the Age. R. G. Jolly could not wait until Brother Johnson had received burial before he came out positively that the first resurrection “has already happened.” At the time he made this announcement he said this had come to him in “a flash” about 4 a.m. the previous morning; and on the basis of that “sudden flash” he declared positively such a weighty matter without any real studious re­search (and during the time when the Lord's faithful people were in deep sorrow and shock over the passing of the beloved Epiphany Messenger). For one who had produced those 27 colossal blunders on the Pyramid just three short years before, then rush pell-mell into such a serious conclusion concerning the first resurrection (from which he himself had been debarred), the answer should be apparent to all un­biased minds: Clearly enough, he had been abandoned to Azazel by withdrawal of his priestly leader, and the terrible result was apparent in a matter of a few short days.

(2) Both of them teach 1954 as the end of the Epiphany period – one of them partially so, the other fully so. The Scriptures are very clear that “by the mouth of two or three witnesses everything should be established”; but up to now neither of the “cousins” has produced even one witness in proof of his claim, much less “two or three.” Note the extreme contrast between their contentions for 1954 and those that are so readily available for 1914. Note also that the “Man of Sin” is to be annihilated dur­ing the Epiphany period (2 Thes. 2:8, Dia. – “The Lord Jesus will annihilate by the Epiphaneia of His Parousia”). Neither of the “cousins” has been able to meet this dilemma. They also have brought the Epiphany to a close before the real features of the Epiphany (Armageddon, Anarchy & Jacob's Trouble) have even begun.

(3) Both of them have a class of quasi-elect consecrated – purely, their own invention –­ a class never seen by either Messenger. And this forces the both of them to cease attempting to win new Youthful Worthies since 1954, although neither of them has produced one shred of Scriptural proof for such a conclusion – contrary to the teaching of both Messengers that Youthful Worthies would be won before – and after – Armageddon, and until restitution sets in. (See first pages of this paper)

(4) In the January 1947 Present Truth, pages 7 through 14, there are 27 Pyramid calculations by the “cousins” to “prove” (?) that the last saint would most definitely be glorified in October 1956; and time has indisputably proven every one of those calculations to be wrong in every major feature. Thus, that bedlam of error (the “bottomless pit”) is nothing more than the chicanery of Satan. And then in January 1951 – exactly four years later – these same two “cousins” unashamedly present another mathematical “Proof” (?) from the Pyramid that the last saint was glorified in October 1950 –just six years sooner than the 27 “sure” computations. And any one now who is nauseated with their kind of “mathematics” – any one who cannot accept their 1950 “proof,” which completely nullifies their 27 previous “proofs” – is a “proven sifter.”

(5) Both of them are in confusion on the correct method of determining the correct date for the Memorial – and both of them were in accord on the erroneous method in 1962 – true “cousins” once more in supporting each other in their errors as they used similar technique in attacking the truth we presented.

On the same page 29 J. W. Krewson says those “following the fiery cloudy pillar have been disciplined in spiritual discernment into the manifold avenues of “Satanic deception”; and we are happy to report that this is decidedly true of our readers. So far as we know, not a one of our readers places one iota of credence in those 27 “mis”-calculations on the Pyramid; they all recognize them for the “Satanic deception” that they are. And the same may be said with equal force of the other points we have set out aforegoing. More on this in due time.

NO. 106: THE ZEAL FOR THINE HOUSE

No. 106

My dear Brethren: - Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

“Because zeal for thy house hath eaten me up, And the reproaches of them who have reproached thee have fallen upon me.” (Psa. 69:9 – Rotherham)

It has always been a characteristic (one of their “besetting sins”) of all Great Company leaders to expend their main zeal toward “saving souls,” beckoning to the world (in contrast to the Faithful Little Flock who obediently “separated themselves from the people of the land” – Ezra 10:11; Luke 6:22; 2 Cor. 6:17) – ­instead of following in “His steps” and remaining dead to self and alive toward God (seeking the Master's path). Their love for popularity – “do great works, win great numbers, gain great favor” (E-15:525) has taken the place of the “zeal for mine house” (for the Household). This has been true of all Great Company leaders throughout the Gospel Age up to the present – this Epiphany period – and the visible result has been the construction of Great and Little Babylon.

Immediately after Brother Johnson's demise, R. G. Jolly began manifesting pro­nounced characteristics that he himself is “not one whit behind” the chiefest of his soulmates of the past and present in his endeavors to ''win great numbers'' and gain the popularity that such crown-lost leaders crave. To do this he must cut the supply of the Household down and enlarge the supply for the world! So he did just the reverse of what Brother Johnson (the faithful Star Member) had set up: he cut down the Present Truth to six copies a year, and increased what was formerly The Herald of the Epiphany from six copies to 12 copies each year. And to make his appeal to the world more attractive he changed the name of The Herald of the Epi­phany to The Bible Standard, and “doctored” the covering (many such crown-lost leaders have a “D.D.” back of their name, proclaiming to all that their divinity has been “doctored”).

Nor do we find too much fault in his making the paper more attractive. The fault we do find is that in changing the Arrangements (as set up by The Epiphany Messenger for the Epiphany period) he started on his downward career of “feeding the poor world” and starving the Household – or at least putting them on a starva­tion diet of Truth mixed with error to fit his own program of “consecrating the Restitutionists,” instead of seeking those who have a yearning to serve God sacri­ficially, and feeding them with their God-given promises of the elect to enable them so to do. Naturally, as did the Jehovah's Witnesses, he had to present a doc­trine to fit in with his “Restitution Consecration” – hence his Epiphany Campers Consecrated who, he says, will also be “princes in all the earth,” although they won't have the Resurrection of the Just – but will receive the Resurrection of the UNJUSTI­FIED (Resurrection by judgment). And in this deceptive mirage there is one “small” item he fails to tell them; namely, they won't receive their “princeship” inheritance at the same time the real princes receive theirs – they will have to await the begin­nings of the general resurrection, perhaps many years after the real princes begin their reign (even according to his own presentations, if there were such a consecrated class here in this Epiphany; but such is not the case, as this class is as non-exister as the Jehovah's Witnesses' crop of 'dedicated' Restititionists).

At the same time he is giving us the “sleight-of-hand” that they are Tentatively Justified (a faith justification for a faith Age only), and are also walking a narrow way”! And we emphasize that he himself teaches that they will not receive the Resur­rection of the JUST(IFIED)! And with this program well on the way (since 1954) he is giving his “burning zeal” – his choicest portion – to the world. Indeed it seems that he may yet “sell all that he has to feed the poor” world. Self-evidently, he “sold the Truth” to the extent that he lost his crown; and there is grave danger that he any “sell all” and lose his standing in the Great Company. This would indeed be a sad ending for one who has managed to stay in the Household as long as he has, even though the greater part of that occupancy has been as a 'loser' (a self­admitted 'loser' since 1938) – a crown-loser.

But the record of the fully faithful has been just the opposite to the course of the Great Company leaders – from Jesus down to the least member in the Body of Christ – including the last elect class, the fully faithful Youthful Worthies. He uses his time and energy to think up new ways to appeal to the world; and in putting out new tracts, of which there seems to be no end! He tells his sectarian adherents, Keep busy; distribute the tracts, etc., etc., but by no means seek to 'argue' with the 'sifters' (the Hoefleites). As was mentioned in a letter from one of his chief representatives: they have sharp minds and are too much for you! We agree that the Adversary does indeed have a 'sharp' mind, but not sharp enough to overthrow the fully faithful who have received the ''wisdom from above'' (His Truth and its Spirit). And the Lord's faithful people can rest in the assurance of His promises: “For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.” With that promise in mind, we do not advise the fully faithful to “flee from the gainsayers.” Nor do they do so in any instance of which we know. It is the 'gainsayers' who flee from the presence of the faithful ­the Epiphany-enlightened brethren who have “continued in what they have learned and been assured of” – for they know of whom they have learned the Truth (from the faith­ful teachings of the last two Star Members). So when the adherents of these Little Babylon sects inadvertently come to us, they are sure not to make that mistake again – ­although at no time do we treat them with any discourtesy; we strive to give them brotherly help. They are permitted to do much of the talking. It is usually the questions we ask them that cause their discomfiture. But we “think it not strange” that these persuasive Great Company leaders can 'teach' their adherents that their faithful (?) presentations just won't hold up with these Epiphany-enlightened brethren, so the Lord's “arrangements” for them is to “flee from them”!

Repeatedly R. G. Jolly has told the brethren from Convention platforms that they should get out in the service – especially with his Bible films – and approach the people in the churches in Big Babylon. He says the people are becoming more and more interested in learning the Truth! This is the exact opposite to what Brother Russell and Brother Johnson taught: they repeatedly taught that the world in general would become more and more confused with error, and would be unable to receive the Truth less and less until after Big Babylon's destruction in Armageddon. We do agree that people are becoming more interested in some “form” of religion, because the times are indeed perilous. They have reached that stage where they are hiding “in the dens (secret societies, beneficial societies), and in the rocks (the fortresses of Society, civil and ecclesiastical) of the mountains (Kingdoms); and saying to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us (Epi, over or about, to cover and protect us; the common view that wicked men will get enough faith to pray for the literal mountains to fall, is absurd), and hide us (through our show of outward religious inclinations) from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne... For the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” (Rev. 6:15-17 – see Berean Comments). But it is also mani­fest that they are interested in any hokus-pokus under the name of Christ rather than the Truth. The Adversary has seen to that, and he uses the 'speculative' minds of the Great Company to furnish a great deal of this 'hokus-pokus' – as well as relying upon their approbativeness and love of money, popularity, etc. So while in Azazel's clutches they do much to build up Little and Big Babylon, instead of participating in the work assigned to the fully faithful – that of ‘separating’ themselves from the nominal mass. While R. G. Jolly has delighted to apply such titles that belong only to the Little Flock to himself (such as “us, we,” etc.) – yet he doesn't emphasize too much the instructions to the “us” class. Instead of going “to Him without the Camp,” he emphasizes to “go to them in the Camp,”

We surely do not mean by this that the Lord's people are not to bear witness to the Truth beside all waters; but they should first seek to develop themselves in every good word and work; and, second, sacrificially help their brethren to do likewise by 'laying down their lives' for them; and, third, bear witness to the world of “sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment (to come).” – John 16:8

As previously stated, R. G. Jolly has a large supply of tracts for general distribution, as is noted on his tract table at Conventions. We are happy to note, tho, that he still continues to display the various Studies in the Scriptures by the Star Members on another table. For this we commend him. But along with this display of elevating teachings, he also has his Present Truth (which is now most improperly named. – is a misnomer – being in reality The Present Perverter); and at this last Philadelphia Convention he had a nominal-church book also displayed – ­“In His Steps.” We have read this book and find that the instructions on “In His Steps” are just in reverse of what our Lord's footstep followers would do, as recommended in the teachings of the last two Principal Men. We don't believe that any one except a Great Company leader befuddled by Azazel would be so foolish as to recommend the faithful teachings of the Star Members, and at the same time recommend the teachings of “foolish virgins” in Big Babylon – which is in direct opposition to the Truth in the Scripture Studies by both Messengers (and written by persons never blessed with “Present Truth” and its Spirit!). “A doubleminded man is unstable in all his ways.” (Jas. 1:8) Such tactics certainly manifest that he (R. G. Jolly) is not what he claims for himself – to be a 'cleansed' Levite – but rather prove that he is exactly what he is: he still has his fleshly mind (double minded)! At this same Convention one of his 'newcomers' in the LHMM (possibly one of his Epiphany Campers Consecrated) was enthusiastically recommending this book (“In His Steps”); said it was so inspiring! She didn't mention any of the Studies in the Scriptures. Perhaps she hadn't had time to read any of those – probably hadn't had time to read anything more than a sermonette in the form of “Flying Saucers,” and the like.

If any of our readers have read this book – “In His Steps” – and have observed R. G. Jolly's course in seeking to proselyte and 'consecrate' a Restitution Class – then they can see the harmony of his program to the instructions therein. But we offer here a few comments from That Servant's pen as a gauge to “discern between good and evil,” and to discern “between Truth and Error”:

“I give them credit, I think, for all they claim themselves, but as for teaching sanctification of the spirit and faith in the precious blood of Christ, I do not think many of them pretend to be doing that (R. G. Jolly still claims – ‘pretends’ to be doing that, even while proselyting Restitutionists: he claims now that is the only class to be proselyted! – JJH); I do not think many would say that was their true mission, and what they are trying to do. (Brother Russell, of course, had not witnessed the ‘doublemindedness’ of crown-lost leaders in Little Babylon at that time – JJH). On the contrary, they would say that they must go after the people, save the masses from something .... Our Lord when He spoke to the Apostle Peter did not say anything about going out and catching some wolves and putting sheep's hair on them, and finding rattlesnakes, and fixing them up and making them look like sheep. You take care of the_sheep, and the lambs, and the Lord will take care of how they got to be sheep and lambs. He is to do the drawing.” (Question Book, page 295)

Also, in direct dispute of what R. G. Jolly is telling his sectarian devotees about the people now being “ready for the Truth,” Brother Russell predicts (in harmony with the Scriptures) for this our time the following in Parousia Volume 4:

“The shaking of the symbolic ecclesiastical heavens mentioned in the same con­nection has somewhat to do with these lights of Christendom coming to a lower plane of public teaching. (R. G. Jolly ‘teaches’ they are being elevated to a ‘higher’ plane of teaching; that some of them are teaching the Divine Plan of Ages in their pulpits - using it as a textbook! – JJH) This shaking would signify just what we see on every hand – a shaking up of the creeds and dogmas of Christendom, which, because of their admixture of errors, produce confusion whenever referred to – as, for instance, the doctrine of elect and non-elect infants; the doctrine of the eternal torment of all who are not saints, overcomers, etc.

''As a consequence, many of the worldly-wise men who are starring before the public are already making every effort to distract attention from all such subjects. What other subjects can they find than either the true or the false doctrine of election; and the true or the false idea of God's provision for the future life of mankind?.... They can abandon spiritual themes wholly, and descend to the plane of the natural man, to moral and political reform questions. They can go ‘slumming,’ and preach the anti-slum gospel. They can join in Christian-citizenship Crusades, etc. These things will more and more engage these pulpit stars; while others will create sensations by outdoing the most celebrated infidels in statements of what they do not believe; in making sport of the Bible record of an Adamic fall into sin, and the idea of being saved out of something which is a myth, according to their Evolutionary theory.” (pp. 595-596)

As the Berean Comment for 2 Thes. 2:11 so aptly states: “Great delusions are just before us, and some of these may come closest upon those possessing the most light of Present Truth.” Certainly R. G. Jolly is the No. 1 example of a leader who received much “light of Present Truth,” and who has succumbed to the “strong delusions” mentioned by St. Paul.

We well realize that our pointed criticisms of R. G. Jolly are distasteful to many. This we regret, of course, just as we also regret even more the necessity for such exposures. But this should also offer convincing proof that our course is not prompted by a desire to “draw away disciples” unto ourselves; otherwise, we would be using ''words smoother than butter, words softer than oil” (Psa. 55:21), as did That Evil Servant and others of like character, such as the Papal 'diplomats,' etc., have done for centuries.

TWO GOLDEN CALVES

In 1 Kings 12 there is recorded the revolution in Israel after the death of Solomon, with the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin remaining with Solomon's son Rehoboam, and the other ten tribes deflecting to Jeroboam. Knowing full well of the compelling appeal to all Jews of the many things held sacred by them in Jerusalem, Jeroboam said to himself (see v. 26) that his now office was on a fragile throne, and moved to protect himself by designing two golden calves, placing one in Bethel and one in Dan. “Behold thy gods, O Israel,” he said to his adherents. No longer would it now be necessary for them to climb the toilsome ascending roads to Jerusalem for worship – just stay at home, and do it the easy way. “And this thing became a sin” (v. 30). For Gospel Age purposes these two golden calves type Clericalism and Sec­tarianism; and the enormity and deep-rooted evils of these two deflections from the Word of Truth are seen in their repeated condemnation in the Old Testament record. Of the kings in Israel that followed Jeroboam it is stated at least seventeen times that they walked in the way of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin, thus directing our attention for this Age that one sect after the other in Christen­dom would find Clericalism and Sectarianism practised by their crown-lost power­grasping leaders.

DOUBLE REBELLION

The evils of crown-lost leaders, as described aforegoing are still glaringly apparent in our day, the latest manifestation being that of R. G. Jolly. In 1 Kings 12:31 it is stated that Jeroboam ''made priests of the lowest order of the people” – a second evil made necessary by his first evil in constructing the golden calves. Here is just one more proof of Brother Johnson's teaching that rejection of one truth always forces rejection of other truths in the desperate effort to uphold and defend the first error. R. G. Jolly's clericalism became immediately apparent when he also “made priests of the lowest of the people.” He rushed to elevate J. W. Krewson to a position out of all keeping with what Brother Johnson had recognized in him. He also “laid hands” on others as speakers for his Convention programs that Brother Johnson recognized not at all for such purposes, because their deficiencies and incapacity were only too glaringly apparent to him. This is also in keeping with the course of That Evil Servant, who failed to correct corrupt and erring brethren so long as they approved of him. In addition, he and R. G. Jolly, and others of kindred spirit, have denounced the true people of God as errorists, and exhorted them to give up their “errors” (See E-13:14) – in reality the Truth which R. G. Jolly and others have been unable to meet.

Note now what Brother Johnson says of such in E-14:472: “An exhortation will go out to invade the teaching, spirit and service of the Great Company in the Truth as guilty of double rebellion, once in the nominal church, then in the Truth.” We have repeatedly pointed out R. G. Jolly's revolutionisms of various truth he once accepted and commendably preached with enthusiasm – truths against which he now rebels (revolutionizes) and supplants with his own erroneous inventions. In our January 1 paper we detailed the teachings of Brother Russell and Brother Johnson re Psa. 46, in which they show it is ridiculous to expect the Church (the Little Flock) to leave the world before Armageddon. This truth by both Messengers R. G. Jolly now rejects. And why does he do so? He does so because Brother Johnson died in 1950! And in this he becomes ridiculous in the extreme, for he attempts to set aside the inspired Word of God just because a certain man died. Surely, here he is guilty of “double rebellion.”

As we have repeatedly stressed in our papers, When crown-losers fall into the hands of Azazel, they talk all sorts of nonsense. And we have here a pronounced example of nonsense deluxe: A crown-loser arbitrarily casting aside the inspired Word of God in Psa. 46 – and the interpretation given that Psalm by both Messengers just because a human being died. And R. G. Jolly accentuates this nonsense by plac­ing great stress upon his error, while never once mentioning the Psalm itself, thus presenting an opiate to his trusting readers. It is little wonder he warns them to “avoid” us! Some of them might just begin to think a little bit if we confronted them with the Truth as expressed herein. Thus, he never tells them to “continue in the things they have learned, and have been assured of” by the last two Principal Men; he advises them to “continue in the error he is giving them,” as they ignore in toto certain pertinent Scriptures. This has been a prevalent trick of the Adver­sary all during the Age.

The same may be said for his “double rebellion” against Tabernacle truths -­truths he now sets aside to make way for his Campers Consecrated. He preaches Rom. 12:1 to them and invites them to “sacrifice,” without offering to them the blessings God promised to such. Rom, 12:1 is decidedly only a Gospel-Age text; it can have no application whatever to Restitutionists. Sacrifice under present evil conditions, without a compensating reward is contrary to all the fundamentals of God's character, because Justice is the foundation of His throne.

Our text is primarily a prophecy of our Lord. It was His zeal for God's House, the House of Sons (“Christ as a son over His own house, whose house are we” – the Fully Faithful Little Flock, Heb. 3:6) – that did fully consume Him. Secondarily, the application is for the House itself in their loving zeal “to lay down their lives” for each other. The text is the Manna for November 22, used in due course over the years past as the basis of the weekly testimony meeting. Thus, it has become one of the “ancient landmarks” for Truth people; and Solomon pointedly admonishes such: “Remove not the ancient landmarks, which thy fathers have set” (Prov. 22:28) – those old truths which have come to us by the teachings of That Servant and his faithful pilgrims – as R. G. Jolly and others of his kinsmen have done. May our readers all take heed lest they fall under the penalty of Deu. 27:17 – ”Cursed be he that removeth his neighbor's landmark.”

Sincerely your brother

John J. Hoefle, Pilgrim

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LETTERS OF GENERAL INTEREST

Dear Brother Hoefle – Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

Would you kindly forward 400 tracts for distribution at church doors. We have served all the churches in .... and vicinity years ago, but we could again start as there are a lot of new and young people that we can reach. Again, Sr. ------- joins me in expressing our deep appreciation to you for standing fast in defense of Parousia and Epiphany Truth. May God continue to bless your every effort to this end. We also send our Christian love to Sister Hoefle and all the dear friends there with you. Sincerely your Brother ------- ( N.J.)

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Dear Brother Hoefle: – Christian greetings to you and yours!

I must here acknowledge a letter from Bro ------- with two lbs. enclosed. We have entered the second month of a New Year of much joy in the Lord – and although with no less trials as the past, yet we have the assurance of His Word “My Grace is sufficient.”

We are in receipt of your monthly papers, which have been gratefully received. I pray the Lord's continued blessings on you while you strive to serve Him faithfully. My sincere love to you, Sr. Hoefle and the dear ones with you. Yours by His Grace, Brother ------- (JAMAICA)

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Dear Brother Hoefle: – Christian Greetings!

Although we have your name in our Manna, I had not specially noted the fact of your birthday being so near at hand. Of course, the fact of my present physical condition has something to do with these omissions of late. However, I do my best and must leave matters with the Lord who knows only too well our shortcomings and weaknesses. This past two weeks I have not been able to endure this very cold and foggy weather....

I am sending a birthday card tomorrow, along with two calendars which I had hoped to send to Sister Wells and Sister Dunnagan before this date.... God bless and keep you and Sister Hoefle secure In His great love. Our love to you both and to all the dear ones with you. May the Lord's love and peace be with you all is our constant prayer. Faithfully your Bro. & Sr ------- (ENGLAND)

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Dear Brother Hoefle: – Loving greetings!

In my haste to answer your latter – in my joy of hearing from you – I seemed to have failed to mention the brethren. They are all well and steadfast in the Truth as they have learned it....... I think the winter will soon make its farewell and will bring with it a little better health for the older brethren. Sr ------- wrote during the Christmas Holidays and I felt with her in the loss of her husband...

We ask that you send 200 tracts. We are a bit late in placing our order, and ask that you mail as early as you can. Please remember me to the others with you – and I still ask that you continue to pray for me.

Sister ------- (JAMAICA)

NO. 105: SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE MEMORIAL

No. 105

My dear Brethren: – Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

Comes once more the observance of our Lord's death – the complete pouring out of His Soul on the cross; thus, we attempt once again to “stir up your pure Minds by way of remembrance,” emphasizing as we do so the counsel that our own writings in this instance are in nowise intended to replace That Servant's all-inclusive analysis on the Passover in Volume Six. The Jews were commanded to take to each family their Passover lamb on Nisan 10 – four days before the event actually arrived. While this was typical of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem four days before His death, we believe it also had the effect upon the Jews in Egypt of focusing their reverent attention and concentration upon that great event which was to free them from bondage. And so may we also be motivated by reading the Passover chapter in Volume 6 in the days before we “do this in remembrance of Him.”

THE CORRECT DATE

All during the Age it has been controversy without end over the correct date to keep the Memorial of “Christ our Passover, who is sacrificed for us.” In Exodus 12 we are told in very plain and understandable words that the type itself occurred on Nisan 14; and we know the antitype – “Christ our Passover” – was also offered up on Nisan 14; but there is nothing at all in the Scriptures to tell us how we must arrive at Nisan 1. Therefore, we must rely upon the secular records to direct us in this cal­culation, although the Christian world in general is influenced almost not at all by the Nisan dates – which causes many of the sects in Christendom to set their own dates for observing “Communion” – some every day, as in the case of the Roman Church, some every week, some every month or on special days, and some three or four times each year – ­just as they also have accepted the very arbitrary day of December 25 to celebrate our Lord's birthday.

Howbeit, there is not the slightest hint in the Scriptures that we should observe Jesus' birthday, so December 25 may be acceptable to all – much the same as Queen Victoria's birthday is remembered on a certain Monday of each year in England, although that is not the exact date of her birth. However, our Lord's statement specifically ordered us to keep His deathday – “This do in Remembrance of me”; and, while we would not have violent quarrel with any who determine to keep this “remembrance” oftener than once a year, the impropriety of multiple “remembrance” of His death-day each year is just as apparent as would be our observance of His birthday more than once a year. In fact, up in Pennsylvania there is a certain religious group who do observe our Lord's birthday twice each year – once in midsummer and once at December 25 – believing, as they do, that such a momentous event should receive attention more than just once each year. With such we have no particular quarrel, although we believe it is more in keeping with our Lord's words, and with the ceremony instituted in the type in Egypt, that His deathday, be observed once each year – and that as nearly as we may determine exactly on Nisan 14.

For centuries now the date for Easter and Good Friday have been arbitrarily determined by Christendom as the first Friday after the first full moon after the Vernal Equinox. Through a most striking and rare coincidence that method this year brings Good Friday on exactly the right date, according to Scriptural reckoning. The moon this year that determines Nisan 1 becomes new at Jerusalem at 4 a.m. March 14, which, according to Jewish reckoning, starts Nisan 1 at 6 p.m. March 13. This then brings Nisan 14 at 6 p.m. Thursday March 26. Thus, this year, when we “do this in remembrance,” we shall do so on Thursday night in exact conformity with the day our Lord instituted this Sacrament. And the entire Christian world will also have the Scripturally correct date for the crucifixion as they observe Good Friday on March 27, and Easter March 29. We do not recall a similar occurrence in our generation – nor do we know if it has ever before occurred in the entire Age since the correct method of calculation was abandoned by the Apostates after the Apostles passed away – although we are not positive on this, not having proper records available. But all of us may certainly find cause for thanks that this most unusual coincidence is our happy portion in this year 1964.

Thus, the time, place and ministry of the service devolves upon the elders in every Ecclesia, as explained by Brother Russell on p. 475, par. 1, Vol. 6 – and they may do this without previous consultation with the Class. The obligation by Jesus ­“This do in remembrance of Me” – makes it mandatory upon the Elders, even though the large majority of the Class might feel otherwise.

MY BODY - MY BLOOD

While the plain statement of the Bible concerning the date has led to much con­troversy, the simple and direct words of our Lord have been even moreso. His words ­“This is my body; this is my blood” – have been interpreted from one extreme to the other, with the Roman Church contending they change the bread and the wine into the actual body and blood of Jesus. Inasmuch as Jesus was not yet dead when He spoke these words, it should not require great intellect to determine that He must have meant other than the interpretation given them by the Roman Church. The Harvest Truth, as given through That Servant, stated the question in its real and significant simplicity: This represents my body; this represents my blood. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to imbibe the Truth on the subject from the Passover chapter in Volume 6 have been much impressed that this was some new and startling analysis; but it seems that Star Member Zwingli had an equally clear understanding, which led to a sharp controversy between him and Martin Luther – and an even more acerb and vicious battle between Zwingli and the Papacy.

While Zwingli is not widely and minutely discussed today, it seems he was a man of clear and brilliant intellect, who came to his death at the early age of 47 years. Had he lived to the normal threescore years and ten, it is probable he would have made a much deeper niche in the theological thinking of the Christian era. Even so, his skill in the Classics led his friends to hail him as “the undoubted Cicero of our Age.” In 1525 he published his “Commentary on the True and False Religion,” in which he declared Luther “was in a fog” – which indeed he was insofar as the Truth on the Lord's Supper was concerned. Zwingli stated that Christ's simple statement merely “proclaimed that by faith alone could His presence be received in a feast which He designed to be commemorative and symbolic.” Certainly no clearer explanation than this was ever given during the Harvest time. So piercing was the brilliant presenta­tion by Zwingli that in October 1529 it broke the whole Protestant movement into two camps, and actually led to civil war in Switzerland.

In this civil war the “Man of Sin” followed the Age-old technique of murder when intellect failed them. They sent against the Zwingli contingent an army twice its size, and much more skillfully officered; thus, his followers were defeated, and he himself murdered in cold blood. His corpse was then quartered by the public hangman, and burned on a heap of dung by unfeeling soldiers. When Pope Paul raises the insolent query now ­Have they done harm to their Protestant brethren? – here is just one instance alone that offers more than enough answer. “In her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints.” (Rev. 18:24) But the “Beast” seeks its usual justification behind the subterfuge ­His murder was justified because of the “bad spirit” that he showed. Yes, “They have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink” (Rev. 16:6) On the grave of this brilliant Star Member and “good soldier” is the marker, “They may kill the body, but not the soul: So spoke on this spot Ulrich Zwingli, who for Truth and the freedom of the Christian Church died a hero's death October 11, 1531.”

We relate the fate of Zwingli in this “remembrance of Him” because the death of each was so strikingly companion, and aids in arousing our hearts and minds as we “Consider Him.” It is well that we keep them much in mind at this season of the year, and to consider that the attacks of Truth against error always bring out the real character of both sides; and this is just as true today as it was then. The slander heaped upon Brother Russell was the direct result of the Truth he taught – ­Truth that his errorist opponents could not meet with Scripture. The same was true of Brother Johnson; and we ourselves may expect the same treatment from similar people today. Therefore, “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” (1 Pet. 4:12) We may expect the same misrepresentation and falsehood from those in disagreement with us as was meted out to our “betters” of the past; and by such falsehood our revilers also reveal their true characters – and we “suffer it to be so.”

For many years – and especially so during the last ten years – we have been much impressed each Memorial by the Berean Comment of Brother Russell on Matt. 27:21, Mark 15:11, Luke 23:13 and John 18:40: “Religious fanaticism is the deepest, wickedest and most conscienceless of hatreds.” Coupled with this, we ponder also the Berean Comment on John 18:28: “How much of meanness and murder can be covered with a garment of light!” While Brother Russell did not experience actual physical assassination, as did Zwingli, he did indeed suffer a kindred character assassination (murder –­ see Berean Comment for 1 John 3:15) – as many of us also have. Therefore, let us “think it not strange” if “your brethren hate you, and cast you out for my name's sake.” (Isa. 66:5, also Berean Comment)

THE PLACE TO MEMORIALIZE

The tendency of this our day is for larger and more costly edifices in which to observe this “remembrance of Me.” But in many of these “the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee” (Rev. 18:22); therefore, may the fact impress us that it is the occupants who sanctify the building; the building does not sanctify the occupants. Thus, St. Paul addresses one of his most human and endearing letters “unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow-laborer ... and to the church in thy house.” Therefore, may each participant in this year's “remembrance of Me” rest in the strong assurance that “ye are the temple of God, and that the spirit of God dwelleth in you” (1 Cor. 3:16), regardless of the edifice we may occupy. In fact, the institution of this “remembrance” by Jesus Himself was in an “upper room” of a private residence.

TEMPTED IN ALL POINTS

St. Paul tells us in Heb. 4:15 (Dia.) that Jesus was tried “in all respects like ourselves, apart from sin”; also, that He was “holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners.” (Heb. 7:26) To many, these statements are an enigma. How can any one be tempted, except to sin, they ask. And, if Jesus was not tempted to sin, how could He possibly be tempted “as we are” – we who are prone to sin, “none righteous, no not one”? This becomes clear when it is understood that there are four classes of temptation that beset God's people: Sin, Error, Selfishness and Worldliness. Thus, if Jesus was tempted in all points except Sin, it means He was tempted to Error, Selfishness and Worldliness. Before we analyze these in our Lord's experiences, let us first of all make clear that He was never tempted to the sins that beset the fallen human race - murder, thievery, immorality, falsehood - on every occasion He always said and did exactly the right thing, in the right way, at the right time, always “apart from sin”; whereas, all of the Lord's followers - some more, some less ­have had such temptations to sin. St. Paul makes this clear in 1 Cor, 6:9-11 (Dia.): “Be not deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminates, nor Sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous persons, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of God, AND SUCH CHARACTERS WERE SOME OF YOU.” Yet in all these things Jesus was “apart from sin” – they bothered Him not in the least. His human body was ever the noble and altruistic servant of His new creature. Let us look then at those features wherein He was tempted, the same being related in Matthew 4, “Then Jesus was conducted by the Spirit into the desert, to be tempted by the enemy,” the first of which was:

SELFISHNESS: – “After fasting forty days and forty nights He was hungry. Then the Tempter approaching Him, said, If thou be a son of God, command that these stones become loaves.” Here we have temptation in the form of Selfishness in the very strongest degree. Self-preservation is the first law of nature, the desire for food and drink being the prime factors therein. Thus, a good and honorable man, faint with hunger, might put forth his hand to purloin food belonging to another, even though he had fasted but two or three days, instead of forty days, as was true of Jesus. But in this temptation Jesus was more than conqueror, as He answered, “Man shall not live by bread only, but by every word proceeding from the mouth of God.” Thus, he who later turned water into excellent wine, could just as easily have used His power to provide food for Himself, but He victoriously resisted the temptation to sate His selfish propensities to satisfy His bodily needs.

And this continued to be His course throughout His earthly ministry. Not once do we read that He derived personal material gain from the great power that was His. Some of the miracles He performed in healing wealthy people – such as raising the daughter of Jairus from the dead (Luke 8:41-56) – could certainly have brought Him substantial “fees”; but in this one instance we here mention He not only sought no pecuniary reward, but even avoided popular applause. “He charged them that they should tell no man what was done.” And in this He surely gave us sound cause to “do this – ­with the bread and the cup – in remembrance” of Him. “Buy the Truth, and sell it not.” And, following His 'example' in resisting temptation towards selfishness, we may also have His same blessed experience: “Then the enemy leaves Him; and behold! Angels came and ministered to him.” (v. 11)

ERROR – “Then the Enemy conducts Him into the Holy City, and places Him on the battle­ment of the temple, and says to Him, If thou be a son of God, cast thyself down; for it is written, He will give His angels charge of thee; they shall uphold thee on their hands, lest thou strike thy foot against a stone.” God's people should never court or encourage sensationalism, or even ribald flippancy, or “sleight-of-­hand,” if they would be true and fully useful “able ministers of the New Testament.” (2 Cor. 3: 6) Such a 'stunt' would certainly have brought Jesus wide acclaim – ­would have attracted to Him the attention of the people in pronounced manner. Here was a most subtle ruse to stumble our Lord. Be it remembered that temptation is an appealing suggestion. Without appeal, there can be no temptation. Thus, we cannot tempt a fellow man with a cigar if he detests tobacco; whereas, it might be a very strong appeal to another who had been an habitual smoker and had with great diffi­culty forsaken the vice. And by the same token, at least some of God's people have had the urge to 'show off' with the power of the Truth that has come to them – to use it for personal prestige, and perhaps even more, when “the praise of men” might be involved. But to the erroneous twist by Satan our Lord gave the perfect answer, “Again it is written, Thou shalt not try the Lord thy God.” Here again He “left us an example'' that we indulge not in outward show as we “do this in remembrance.”

WORLDLINESS – “Again the Enemy takes Him to a very high mountain, and shows Him all the Kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and says to Him, All these will I give thee, if prostrating thou wilt worship me.” Some may argue that these were not Satan's to give; but we are told he is “the God of this world” (2 Cor. 4:4), and there is little doubt but that he could have kept his promise to that extent. (Here also is indisputable proof that Satan was about this earth when our Lord was here – in contrast to the mistaken belief held by some that he was in Heaven until 1914, or 1918, at which date, they say, he was first cast out.) With the perfect mind and vigorous body that were His, our Lord would have had little difficulty – ­especially, if He experienced no opposition from Satan – in securing quick domina­tion of the financial and political elements in a world where all about Him were in every respect His inferiors. Here also, He “was tempted like as we are”; and once more we have His perfect answer, “Get thee behind me, Adversary; for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve.” And at this time we are well advised to keep His answer well in mind, as we “do this in remembrance.” And let us consider that in all His temptations our Lord was more than conqueror; His human body was always the noble servant, in full subjection to His new creature.

At this Satan left Jesus, and we hear no more about His temptations. While we have classified them as selfishness, error and worldliness, they may also be defined under the headings of faith, obedience and loyalty, respectively. We could also describe them as Capitalistic Power (prompted by selfishness to use His power for personal gain), Religious Power (temptation to gain a following – to “do great works, win great numbers, gain great favor” – E-15:525 – as many have done who have built upon “Christ as Sand”), and Governmental Power (using superior intellect to dominate weaker men). Many would do well to “examine themselves” from these standpoints as we “do this in remembrance.”

OUR PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

(June 1, 1915 Watch Tower – Reprint 5698)

“The Apostle's argument is that we should hold fast the faith which began our Christian life and which is also to be the finisher of our Christian life. The Lord is able to carry us through and He will do it, if we do our part. But the terms on which the Lord has received us are that we purpose to abide faithful. Hence every­thing depends on our holding fast to the faith which we have professed, without wavering, without harboring any doubts and fears; and the basis of our faith in our ultimate triumph is the assurance that 'He is faithful that promised.' We know that in the Bible there are 'exceeding great and precious promises' for us. While the Lord tells us that there is nothing in ourselves that we can depend on, He assures us that His Grace is sufficient, that His strength is made perfect in our weakness. We have only to lay hold upon it. If therefore we hold fast to our faith, we may obtain all that God has promised us. He will be faithful; He will not disregard His promises; He will do all that He has said.

“If we hesitate and waver we are either losing our faith or losing the spirit of obedience and love. If, therefore, we realize that either of these conditions exists, we should go at once to the Word of God and to prayer, that our faith, love and zeal may be renewed. We should scrutinize our hearts day by day to make sure that we are still loyal to the Lord, to see whether we are seeking to lay down our lives according to our covenant, to see whether we are developing the fruits and graces of the holy Spirit. Thus we shall fulfill our vows, and there shall be 'an abundant entrance' administered unto us into the 'everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.'“

This year we shall observe the Memorial at 7:30 p.m., March 26 at 1507 N. Donnelly, Mount Dora, as in other years; and with this comes the prayer that all our readers receive the Lord's blessing in their preparation for, and participation in “this remembrance.” “Let us keep the festival, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of vice and wickedness, but with the unleavened principles of sincerity and truth.”

Sincerely your brother,

John J. Hoefle, Pilgrim

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QUESTION OF GENERAL INTEREST

QUESTION: – What studies would you suggest for classes where there are new ones as well as some who are well versed in Parousia and Epiphany Truth?

ANSWER: – The Divine Plan of the Ages is always good for only new ones in the Truth; however, if the class is having studies with some other Parousia Volume, such as the 5th Volume or Tabernacle Shadows, we believe that the new ones could progress with the aid of the others – especially with the encouragement that the new ones should start reading approximately ten pages of the First Volume of Parousia Studies each day and continue thus until they have read all six volumes.

We suggest that such Classes have two studies a week – one in Parousia Volumes and one in Epiphany Studies. For a Class with newcomers, the Epiphany study in Volume 4 on Youthful Worthies would be most timely. A second suggestion is Azazel Goat Class and Great Company, also in Epiphany Volume 4. These two elect classes are not treated very much, if at all, in any of the Little Babylon groups today except LHMM, and this group has grossly revolutionized against the teachings of the Star Members on both classes – and is now teaching no more opening for Youthful Worthies, although both Star Members taught there would be such an opening “until restitution begins.” So it is important we “continue in what we have learned and been assured of” on both of these elect classes here in the Epiphany when they are most prominently manifested as such – Youthful Worthies or Great Company.

With That Servant, we also recommend a regular Wednesday Testimony meeting, with the previous Thursday Manna text as a basis for the testimony. We believe this is one of the most important meetings, because it allows each one an opportunity for individual expression, and is therefore character-building, if the brethren are properly exercised thereby. We can study and learn a great deal of the doctrines privately, but the fellowship received through these testimonies, sharing in the exper­iences of one another over the past week, increases our zeal for the Truth and love for the brethren – and in that way we grow in knowledge and in the spirit of the Truth. It was That Servant's suggestion that if only one meeting could be had in a week, it should be a testimony meeting. (See Reprints 4010, col. 2, top and 5122, col. 2, top) If we have no burning zeal to study, practice and spread the Truth, then whatever knowledge we have is of very little value to us; in fact, if such zeal-less attitude becomes a persistent malady in any of us, we doubt very much that we can keep the knowledge of the Truth.

Of course, we believe the No. 1 item for all is to begin each day by reading the Manna and Comments, with such reflection thereon during the day as occasion may allow. Any who neglect the Manna are certain to suffer a corresponding leanness of spirituality; and this would be especially true of isolated brethren who do not have the privilege of regular assemblage with others of ‘like precious faith.' The Manna comments by both Messengers are superb for their energizing spiritual influence and uplift. During our stay in Brother Johnson's home in 1947 there was never a breakfast in which the day's Manna did not command first consideration; and this is also our own procedure each day.

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LETTERS OF GENERAL INTEREST

Dear Brother Hoefle: – Greetings in the Master's Name!

We are enjoying your papers Nos. 101 and 102. I am looking to see what the reaction will be. I am sure Brother Jolly would not relish that November paper, nor the December paper. I think you have driven the last nail in his coffin in that Miriam leprous picture.

You ask about Brother ------- He seems to be one of those who would have more respect for the creature than the Creator (Deut. 1:17; James 2:9), as can be seen from his opinions .... Although he does not agree with the “strange fire” of Epiphany Campers Consecrated, yet he would not leave the LHMM – for if he should do that, What would the friends think of him! Such worship the creature more than the Creator, and that is a sure sign that they do not accept the Truth for the love and spirit of it; otherwise they would not be content to remain and countenance such errors.

My dear brother, may the Lord continue to give Grace, health and strength to you so as to continue in pointing us to the writings of the Star Members. The brethren are in good spirit. With loving Christian greetings to you and to the dear Sisters Dunnagan and Wells.

Yours by His Grace, Brother -------

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Dear Brother Hoefle: – Grace and Peace!

Your February paper No. 104 was received today, and I note you are reminding us of the Special Effort in Gideon's Second Battle. I ask you to send some tracts so I can have part in this Effort. The things you write on Keturah's six sons are well written and in harmony with Brother Johnson's writings.

I have looked up the references you give, and also the references RGJ gives in his Nov-Dcc. PT – all of which prove your point! It leaves no place for Campers Consecrated. He refers to you as “sifter, chronic faultfinder, customary duplicity and method of deception.” In the last paragraph on p. 88 he says, “All sifters resort to deceptions, lies and misrepresentations, even as their father the devil did and still does (John 5:44)”; then he quotes Gen. 49:5,6 – Scriptures that no crown-loser can apply to themselves (Certainly no crown-loser is addressed here – although they are described in v. 5 –”Instruments of cruelty are in their habitations”—JJH). Please see Epiphany Vol. 10, p. 660, bottom. He has in the past used Luke 21:15 and Isa. 54:17 which in part describes unclean Great Company members stealing spiritual prero­gatives – kleptomania in spiritual respects (see Ep. Vol. 5, p. 322, bottom).

Brother Johnson applied Matt. 24:48-51 to JFR, and he fits the description; but I believe Luke 12:45-46 fits RGJ. Manservants of v. 45 1 think refers to the Little Flock, and the maidens the Youthful Worthies.....I believe Col. 2:18-19 exhorts the Little Flock not to give up their hope – and the one asking them to do so would be intruding into things which he hath not seen – proven. And the word 'intruding' indicates to me that he had no business discussing the subject. 'Vainly puffed up' indicates pride and vanity. By his fleshly mind, and not 'holding the head,' indicates his Great Companyship. That fits RGJ.

I know from the few times it has been my privilege to fellowship with you person­ally, that you have the “spirit of the Truth”; and from your writings I know that the Lord has given you the knowledge and ability to defend the Truth “we have learned and been assured of.” And He is also bringing out some gems of Truth based upon and elaborated out of said Truth. So you do not need me to defend you against RGJ. His use of Isa. 54:17 and Gen. 49:5-6 is so glaring I feel that I must register my protest.

I pray the Lord to grant you prosperity in knowledge, grace and service – and I wish the same for all in your Class, and all in harmony with you.

By the Lord's favor I am, Your brother, ----------

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Dear Brother Hoefle: – Grace and peace in Jesus' Name!

I am writing to say thank you for all your labour in instructions, corrections and rebukes your articles have furnished me during the year that is now dying. I think all the faithful will say as I do, I am glad when I knew of Brother Hoefle, for you are a help to the faithful, even though you become a stumbling block to the unfaithful. The Lord's promises are sure, you will be given your needs to do another year if you faithfully toil on. Your reward is at no distance.

I close with best wishes, Yours through His Grace -------

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Sirs: – May I have a copy of each of the following: The Resurrection of the Dead, What Is the Soul, Where are the Dead and The Three Babylons.

Thank you!    Yours --------

NO. 104: KETURAH'S SIX SONS

No. 104

My dear Brethren: – Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

In our paper No. 102, p. 5, we offered brief comment on R. G. Jolly's interpre­tation of the antitype of Keturah's Six Sons, the same being found on p. 77 of the Sept-Oct. PT. In that presentation R. G. Jolly follows his custom of using part of Brother Johnson's interpretation and part of his own, in which his own comments are in part at least a direct perversion of the true interpretation – done to conform to his false doctrine (“strange fire”) of Campers Consecrated.

On pages 10 & 11 of the January 1950 Present Truth Brother Johnson repeated an anticipation he had made in the November 1949 PT, to the effect that he would publish three more Epiphany Volumes in 1950. Pursuant to that promise, he did give us Vol. 15, but his failing health, and ultimately his death in October, prevented him from producing the other two books he had promised. It will be noted in the appended pages of Vol. 15 that the two other books that were planned for 1950 were No. XVI: Genesis – Leviticus – Deuteronomy; and No. XVII: Numbers, Vol. II. In this instance – as in many other cases – R. G. Jolly concluded he knew better than Brother Johnson what should be done (the same as he concluded in 1938), so he made no effort to carry out the program that had been promised. In fact, he did nothing at all about these volumes until 1953, when he produced “The Chart of God's Plan,” as Vol. XVI; then in 1956 “The Millennium” as Vol. XVII. These two books Brother Johnson had scheduled as Volumes XVIII and XIX respectively.

R. G. Jolly apparently had two reasons for this shift in schedule: First, to inject some impetus and incentive into his “Attestatorial Service”; and secondly, by allowing the Genesis material to “cool,” it could then be palmed off as his own. Having definitely planned to publish the Volume on Genesis in 1950, it seems reasonably certain that Brother Johnson had left copious notes; and it is clear enough, too, that R. G. Jolly has since been using those notes for the articles on Genesis that he has been palming off as his own in the Present Truth. If we are correctly informed, he has even asked some of his readers pri­vately how they like the articles on Genesis that were then appearing in the PT. This in itself we would pass by; but, when he injects his own error into Brother Johnson's analysis – as he has done in his explanation of Medan – then we once more have proof positive that he is still a part of Miriam leprous, as explained in our paper No. 102. And we may be sure the penalty for his sins in this and similar instances will be meted out to him in due course by our Lord. “His folly will be made manifest to all.” If any of our readers are inclined to question these state­ments by us, we suggest they ask R. G. Jolly to show them the notes on Genesis that Brother Johnson had accumulated.

We now present what we believe to be the correct interpretation of antitypical Keturah's Six Sons; and we direct attention first of all to the fact that there will be three distinct classes who will be blessed by the New Covenant. They are:

(1) – the Worthies, who will receive the “better resurrection,”

(2) – the Jews, and

(3) – the Gentiles. These three classes each have two divisions – somewhat after the manner of the four elect classes pictured forth in Noah's Ark by Noah, Shem, Ham and Japheth and their wives, the same depicting the leaders and the lesser lights respectively of The Christ, the Ancient Worthies, the Youthful Worthies and the Great Company. Thus, we account for the six sons of Keturah as follows:

1 – ZIMRAN (Celebrated): The 70 outstanding Ancient and Youthful Worthies-­the leaders of their Class. While we do not now have Scripture to prove it, we may eventually learn that the 35 chief Ancient Worthies will each have a companion helper in the persons of the 35 chief Youthful Worthies; but this we do not state positively. Howbeit, this would be in keeping with our Lord's prac­tice in Luke 10 when He sent forth the seventy “two and two... into every city and place”; and with the 35 Interim Star Members of the Age, each of whom had a compan­ion helper.

2 – JOKSHAN (Fowler, or bird catchers, overcomers of the fallen angels – in that Satan and his demons had no dominion over them): These will com­prise all the lesser lights of the Ancient and Youthful Worthies. Inasmuch as Zimran and Jokshan were the eldest and second eldest of Keturah's sons, it is log­ical enough to determine them as the Millennial-Age firstborns – just as the Seed of Promise (antitypical Isaac) have been the firstborns of this Gospel Age. Among these Gospel-Age firstborns would also be included the Great Company, inasmuch as they at one time were a part of the Very Elect; therefore, among the first-begotten. Thus, those of them who retained this secondary Class standing, having been “begotten,” must self-evidently come to birth – first-begotten – firstborn – “the church of the firstborn” (Heb. 12:23), including all New Creatures who gain life. All the Worthies will be children of the Christ, raised in the “better resurrection” – the firstfruits of antitypical Keturah. Even in this life, such have been the tentative firstborn of the Millennial Age.

3 – MEDAN (Judgment): The Quasi-elect Jews. “Judgment” sometimes has the meaning of “true instruction, “ as in Prov. 21:3, “To do justice (right­eousness) and judgment (true instruction) is more acceptable to the Lord than sac­rifice.” This class would be those Jews who earnestly endeavored to teach and defend “true instruction,” as they received it from the Law, the Prophets and the Psalms (Luke 24:44). St. Paul says of such that they had ''much advantage... chiefly, because unto them were committed the Oracles of God.” (Rom. 3:2) Those sincere ones among them who were entrusted with the care and preservation of the inspired writings of the Old Testament would have sacrificed their lives in defense of them. Thus, “Judgment” is a most fitting meaning for their typical name, Medan. This would well apply to the chief (or first) of the Quasi-elect – “to the Jew first.” Note how R. G. Jolly perverts this son of Keturah to “type” his Campers Consecrated, thus distorting it out of all logical setting in this otherwise harmonious picture -­because he leaves the Jews without an outstanding group from their own brethren. This forces him further to distort the interpretation of Ishbak. If our readers will keep in mind that type and antitype must correspond in every detail, it will then become much easier to discern the flaws in R. G. Jolly's flimsy flapdoodle – ­of which we shall have more to say in due course on some of his other “types.” He certainly states a dominant truth when he declares that few of the Lord's people are qualified to interpret types – a warning which Brother Johnson repeatedly gave to him, but which he has sadly failed to heed. From R. G. Jolly's letter published in the November 15, 1910 Watch Tower, we were led to believe he had learned his lesson then; but some crown-losers learn so very slowly, as they build on “Christ as Sand.” And in the present instance we can but conclude that his infraction here is largely willful with him – knowing as he does, that Brother Johnson did not place the interpretation upon Medan that he now attempts to do. The Lord will reward him accordingly!

4 – MIDIAN (Strife or contention): All Jews not included in the elect, or the quasi-elect. It is this class of Jews who have been a bone of con­tention since their first appearance in human history, always a warlike and assertive people – not sufficiently persuaded by the Mosaic Law and faith to adhere to its principles. It was because of this that the Romans – themselves equally determined and assertive – eventually determined in the year 70 AD. to subjugate them finally and thoroughly, as they “desolated their house” in fulfillment of our Lord's sentence upon them, and dispersed them among the nations for the tenure of their “double” of disfavor, during which, in this Gospel Age, they have been a Nomadic and much-troubled people, as “blindness in part is happened to Israel.” But, “after the fullness of the Gentiles be come in, then shall all Israel be saved” (Rom. 11:25,26–Dia.), from Sheol “and come to an accurate knowledge of the Truth.” (I Tim. 2:4–Dia.).

5 – ISHBAK (Free): The quasi-elect Gentiles. They are “free” in the sense of being free from the Mosaic Law; free also in the fact that most of them are to be found in Protestant countries. “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” And there is little question that the liberty that prevails in Protestant countries has been a dominant factor in their tremendous progress in art, literature and invention.

6 – SHUAH (Depression, or low place): An allusion to all Gentiles not included in the elect or the quasi-elect (all Gentile nations, includ­ing all the heathen – pictured outside the Camp) who have never heard that “only name” or who have given little or no heed to it (that “seed that fell by the road, or on rocky ground” – Matt. 13:4,5), and whose characters have suffered greater mental and moral degradation because of it. To use a vernacular expression, most of them are indeed “low-down” – given “over to a reprobate mind, to do improper things.... not only are doing them, but even are approving those who practice them.” (Rom. 1:28-32).

To summarize, the six sons of Keturah may be catalogued as follows:

1 – THE ELECT: The visible rulers of the Kingdom, pictured in Zimran (the 70 most prominent Ancient and Youthful Worthies), and Jokshan – the “old men” (literally, ''Ancients”) and ''young men'' (literally, “Youthfuls”) of Joel 2:29 (See E-4:319-325) – the remainder of the Worthies. It is these – and only these – who will comprise the Millennial-Age firstborns.

2 – THE QUASI-ELECT: Those “truly repentant and believing, but not conse­crated, Jews and Gentiles” (See E-10:209), who will assist the Elect in Restitution work; and portrayed by Medan and Ishbak. But none of these will be the Millennial-Age firstborns.

3 – THE NON-ELECT: All the remainder of the human family who will gain life under the Mediatorial reign, represented in Midian and Shuah, the “sons” (Jews) and “daughters” (Gentiles) of Joel 2:29..

The foregoing leaves no room at all in this Keturah type for Campers Conse­crated; but reveals clearly that it is a non-existent class – an invention of J. W. Krewson given to R. G. Jolly, who now attempts to inject this myth into the Keturah type. Thus, we submit our interpretation to our readers for its reason­ableness and harmony, in contrast to R. G. Jolly's unreasonableness and disharmony – ­traits that are always in evidence when he – or any one else – attempts to cast away the Truth he has once learned, and been assured of – and taught – and places error in its stead. It would seem he should have learned well and deeply this lesson from the “drunken” vagaries of That Evil Servant, who, as antitypical Uzziah, “was a leper unto the day of his death.” (2 Chron. 26:21) “He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” (Prov. 29:1)

CARELESS ONES UNFIT FOR THE KINGDOM

Those who get spots upon their robes and leave them there will not be fit for the kingdom of God; for the bride of Christ will be composed of only those who will be “without spot or wrinkles or any such thing.” Jesus is to present this class blameless and unreprovable before the Father. They did not walk perfectly, without a blemish; but they were careful to keep their garments unspotted by going often to the Lord. They let nothing keep them away. This is the spirit of the bride class. We each wish to be of that class, dear friends. If any of us are not sure just now as to our standing with the Lord, let us make haste to go to him and see that the record is cleared by our dear Redeemer and Advocate. Let us not wait, but go at once.

The faithful class is pictured to us in Revelation 7:3,4 and 14:1-5. These are the 144,000 who have the Father's name in their foreheads. They sing the new song, which none can sing but these 144,000. Oh, we long to be among them! We cannot afford to be anywhere else. The outcome is all in our own hands whether we suc­ceed or fail, after God has given us His Holy Spirit. It will be our own fault if we miss the Kingdom. There will be no blame to attach to the Lord; for He has arranged for our continual cleansing day by day. His grace is provided for us every step of the way; and his loving, protecting providences are continually about us if we are trustful and obedient to the best of our ability.

The other class who allow spots to accumulate upon their robes, is a “great multitude, whose number no man knoweth.” (Rev. 7:9); that is, they are not of an ordained or fixed number as is the bride class. (The Lord did not arrange for them to fail, but did mercifully arrange a place for them after they did fall – JJH) These must through great tribulation wash their robes, all spotted and soiled, in the blood of the Lamb. These will then stand before the throne, will serve God day and night in His temple. The bride class will be The Temple; or, in another figure, they will be seated upon the Messianic Throne with their Lord and Bridegroom. These different figures give different phases of the honored position and work of the Body of Christ in glory. These are spoken of as wearing crowns, the others as merely carrying palm branches, indicating final victory.

How glad we are that our dear heavenly Father has mercifully provided for those who through lack of sufficient zeal and faithfulness lose the “Prize of the High Calling”! We rejoice that even the “foolish virgins” do not lose all, but will through tears and travail of soul yet come wholly back to the Lord. They will finish their course in death. Theirs is an enforced destruction of the flesh. Although they covenanted to sacrifice it willingly yet they failed to do so. They love the Lord and love righteousness, but not sufficiently to be thoroughly loyal and faithful; and so they must be severely scourged, that their spirits may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus (The Epiphany period – “great tribulation” – ­the 'judgment day' of the Great Company as A CLASS – something R. G. Jolly would be greatly concerned over for his Great Company kinsmen more than anything else, if he were the cleansed Levite he claims to be – JJH)

EARNEST EXHORTATION TO FAITHFULNESS

No one has been called of God to the Great Company Class. “We are all called in the one hope of our calling.” Let us then walk with the Lord in white every day, dear brethren and sisters. Let us keep our robes spotless. It is easier to get spots on them than to get the spots off, and each spot will be more difficult than the previous one. We understand spots to be the result of a measure of care­lessness. “It is impossible for me to keep my robe from ever getting spotted,” you say, “but I am very thankful that the Lord has provided a way whereby the spots may be removed when I earnestly apply for the cleansing.”

Each experience of this kind should make us more humble, more careful, more alive to our weaknesses and more watchful to avoid getting spots on our white robes. Otherwise the Lord will chastise us by withholding for a time His peace, lest we think that we may be careless, and then nay have the spot removed without any trouble. The Lord wishes us to realize that this is no light matter. Then let us each be very faithful, that we may soon hear the Master's sweet ''Well done!''

The six paragraphs aforegoing are Brother Russell's observations as given in the July 1, 1916 Watch Tower, Reprints 5924, col. 2; and they are certainly as pertinent today as they ever were. “The peace of God, which passeth all under­standing” (Phil. 4:7) is only for those who prize it enough to maintain it under all circumstances and in all conditions – those described by Brother Johnson as “The Fully Faithful.” Those who do not do this are usually full of 'excuses' why they have not done so; but it is a sage observation that He who is expert at mak­ing excuses seldom is expert at anything else. While we should reprove excuse makers, it certainly is not our province to determine when such laxity has reached its limit sufficiently to demote any one from his Class standing. That is exclus­ively the prerogative of the Lord. But once the Lord has come to such determination, then also “the peace which passeth understanding” will be lost to such – at least, during the time of their deflection – as was the case with King Saul: “The spirit of the Lord departed from Saul.” (1 Sam. 16:14) And it was not long thereafter until Saul gave open manifestation of his great loss – after “the Lord answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets” (1 Sam. 28:6) – he then went to the extremity of seeking counsel from the Witch of Endor, which resulted in his complete undoing. But with the Fully Faithful the situation is just the reverse – ­“The spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit.” Such may have imperfections, but they do not permit them to allow “the pearl of great price” to slip from their grasp.

The foregoing applies in principle to all in the end of this Age (the Epiphany Period) – the obedient ones who “hold fast the faithful word as they have been taught” (Titus 1:9) – and to the disobedient whom we see receiving “strong delusions.” (2 Thes. 2:11) The difference between the two becomes decidedly clearer as this Epiphany period progresses. ''He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”

Sincerely your bother,

John J. Hoefle, Pilgrim

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LETTERS OF GENERAL INTEREST

Dear Brother Hoefle: May Grace and Peace be your continued portion!

Sister ------- and I were delighted with the...... tract. It is wholesome reading, as from The Lord. The monthly papers are most refreshing and the December issue in which you have lucidly displayed that the Jewish conversion is not due until after Armageddon. Brother Johnson personally spoke to us on this matter – and so once again you are defending right teaching.

The unclean spots in Miriam, crown-losing leaders in their New Creatures – and Azazel's goat – all crown-losers in their humanity – should be clearly understood with Epiphany brethren. We still pray for their cleansing. We have had a busy time trying to show the various beginnings and endings of the 1,000-year-reign of the Christ – and the binding of Satan gradually. The references from Brothers Russell and Johnson and yourself being most helpful in convincing. So we all rejoice in a better understanding. In 1923 we had to make a special study of the Covenants, Ransom and Sin Offerings through a brother upholding the McPhail views. Praying and reading all we could from Brother Russell, we were able to see the right view. This understanding has been of great benefit to us ever since.

The only way to arrive at Truth is to ask the Lord's guidance – and use the appointed channels...... His Word and His Star Members' writings.

This same brother visited us this summer and asked if we had changed our view – ­and didn't we think the scapegoat represented one view of our Lord's sacrifice. It was pointed out to him the meaning of the word 'scapegoat' in the Hebrew – and that it means the Devil – and that we have not changed our view. We definitely pointed out that we believed ''God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Here again is the wise man's words – ''With all thy getting, get understanding”!

In the Sept-Oct. PT we noticed a letter.... referring to you as a sifter. We know these brethren and will write to them soon in reply. We pity our deluded brethren! Press on, dear Ones – yours is a rightful cause – and the end is victory. Hallelujah! It was interesting to read that Brother Roach holds the VDM. Sister .... and Brother ...... and myself do also – and we are rejoicing in the Word and His Providential leadings.

Wishing you and Sister and all with you .... a blessed Holiday Season and a good New Year ahead. Sister...... joins me in love.

Your brother by His Grace ------- (ENGLAND)

..............................................................

Gentlemen:

Please forward me a copy of What is the Soul – Where are the Dead – and The Three Babylons. I found a copy of your Resurrection tract very interesting indeed! Thank you!

Sincerely yours ------- (CALIFORNIA)

...............................................................

Dear Brother Hoefle:

I am in full possession of something most edifying! I would be delighted to be in constant touch with you and others. I am a Methodist by religion, but I don't believe in all they teach. I believe in what our Lord said on the Mount: Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Brother Hoefle, I am after righteousness, and I will seek the Truth. Many of us have been baffled concerning the meaning of the soul. I am satisfied with your interpretation and definition. I shall be glad to have you build me up in the Truth. Would you tell me what Denomination you represent? I would be glad to know the friends living in the same district with me.

I remain, Your Brother ------- (TRINIDAD)

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ANNOUNCEMENT OF GENERAL INTEREST

            Following Brother Johnson's practice of a Special Effort in Antitypical Gideon's Second Battle – one in the Fall, culminating shortly after the date of Brother Russell's funeral, and one in the Spring, culminating after Easter – we now announce the Spring effort this year beginning March 8 and ending April 5. In the Fall, What is the Soul and Where are the Dead are used mainly at Church doors, with the Resurrection tract used incidentally. In the Spring we reverse the order –using mainly the Resurrection tract, especially the Sundays before and following Easter – with the other two incidental. To those who wish to engage be distributed.

As we are the only group now wholeheartedly “heralding the Epiphany,” so we are also the only ones using “The Herald of the Epiphany” in these special efforts. This battle is a “good fight,” in which we can be certain of victory if we but “firmly hold the confessing of the (glorious) hope, without declining.... bearing each other in mind, for an incitement of love and good works.” (Heb. 10:23,24–Dia.) We have the Epiphany Messenger's encouraging words that the faithful will persevere in this “good fight” unto a completion (See E-5:159; also see E-4:40, par. 37, where Brother Johnson tells us that Antitypical Gideon's Second Battle is another proof that we are in the Epiphany; therefore, we know so long as this Battle is not completed the Epiphany has not ended).

NO. 103: RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT

No. 103

My dear Brethren: – Grace and peace through our Beloved Master!

As we ponder the year just gone, it is distressingly evident on all sides that the financial, political and religious factions are fully conformed to the decadence of the times, offering vivid reminder of St,. Paul’s words, “They shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt thou fold them up.” (Heb. 1:11,12) And in all of these there are so many different factions that no one of them is strong enough to assert itself fully, meaning that no one group has the power to bring order from the approaching chaos, even though the skill and wisdom might possibly be theirs to accomplish it.

When the Epiphany began in 1914, and Jordan was smitten, it made clear cleav­age between the Conservatives and the Radicals; but this classification is far too broad to offer even a mild description of the world’s financial, political and re­ligious factions now in 1964. Presently we find in all these groups the radical Radicals and the conservative Radicals; and the radical Conservatives and the con­servative Conservatives – with a “middle-of-the road” group also exercising con­siderable power in each group. Thus, this division into minorities precludes any of them from establishing a solid program, and simply adds to the confusion that increasingly appears on all sides.

The FINANCIAL: – A financial expert and security analyst of international repute told us just recently that the value of all stocks listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 1933 (at the bottom of the depression) was about 16 billion dollars, and that at November 1, 1963 the value of all the listed stocks on that same Exchange was about 382 billion dollars – an increase of 366 billion dollars in 30 years’ time. Of course, much of this is represented only by “paper.” The same extremity applies to the bonded indebtedness. At 1914 the national debt of the United States was about one billion dollars; now it is over 300 billion dollars-­another “paper” increase of 300 billion–mostly a promise-to-pay “nothing.” And to this must yet be added the debts of the various States and Cities, the whole easily exceeding one trillion dollars. Thus, it should be readily apparent that should this “House of Paper” have a collapse akin to the Stock Market break of October 1929 it would be an identical twin to the fall of Humpty Dumpty–

“All the King’s horses, and all the King’s men

Could not put Humpty together again,”

Be it noted that we have been in “THE THIRD WATCH” since 1954 (as explained in our paper of January 1, 1957); and we have passed the end of the “hour of wasting” of Rev. 18:17 (“in one hour such great wealth is laid waste”) as explained in the, same paper on page 2. Surely, at the beginning of the “second watch” in 1914 none of us had even the faintest concept of the proportions this “Wasting” would achieve by even the end of that hour in 1958. In our 1957 writing we stated that the overall debt of the United States was then 750 billion dollars, Now– in seven short years –­ it has progressed to well over one trillion dollars, an increase of about 300 Billion Dollars. From this it will be seen that the “House of Paper” is pyramiding with the years as a snowball gathers momentum and size as it speeds downhill. Thus, the in­scription on our coins, “In God we trust,” would be more aptly stated, “In growing debt we trust.”

During a seminar this past year on the World’s Monetary Condition there was quite some discussion on two divisions of the “conservative” Conservatives; namely, the Chrysophiles (from the Greek word meaning “Lovers of gold”) and the Chrysopholes (from the Greek word meaning “Fearers of Gold”). Even these could not agree among themselves what is the proper course to follow in the present demoralized monetary condition. It was stated by one noted economist that just 16 years ago at December 31, 1948 the United States’ monetary gold amounted to 24.4 billion dollars and short­term assets of 1.02 billion dollars, for a total of 25.42 billion dollars. At that time the short-term liabilities were 5.85 billion dollars, leaving a net credit balance of 19.57 billion dollars. Then, at December 31, 1962 (just 14 years later) the US gold stock was 15.98 billion dollars, with short-term assets of 4.86 billion dollars, for a total of 20.84 billion dollars. But at this latter date our short­term liabilities amounted to 25.18 billion dollars (with some economists declaring it is even much higher than that if all the truth were told), leaving us with a net deficit of 4.34 billion dollars. As we have previously stated, if our own US bank examiners came upon any bank in that condition, it would not be allowed to open for business the next day. Thus, it is little wonder that the authorities are taking desperate measures to mitigate the effect of a “run on the currency.” Let us keep in mind that the entire monetary gold hoard would comprise a cube about 40 ft, x 40 ft. x 40 ft. With the United States now owning about one-third of the world’s monetary gold, it should be apparent that the so-called gold pile at Fort Knox, Ky., would occupy little more space than the ground floor of any middle-class modern residence – a very, very “deflationary” statement when placed alongside the vast amounts of “paper” now in circulation in this country. From many quarters the ‘lung thinkers’ are yet advocating the philosophy that we can spend our way into prosperity; there is much encouragement for people to go ever deeper into debt.

In POLITICS: – The situation in Politics is much the same as in the monetary sphere. Even in our own country, where there are only two major parties, these parties are seldom in accord in their own ranks on any major issue. Among the Republicans there are the extreme rightists, the rightists and the middle­of-the-roaders; and among the Democrats we have the extreme leftists, the leftists and the middle-of-the-roaders. In some other major countries the situation is even worse – some having four or five substantial parties, with none of them possessing a majority to form a Government without coalescing with one or two other groups, and with none of these component groups showing a solid front within their own ranks. Thus, confusion continues to add to confusion – with the promises of the politicians stretching thinner and thinner. This has led to one Mining and Financial publication of restricted international clientele offering this suggestion for a “Barbed Christmas Card”:

IF You ignore the constant Debasement of Paper Money Your only reward will be poverty;

BUT Should you learn that Government promises Everywhere are never kept,

You may discover that only those

Who do not conform to them

Will be able to conserve

What they have.

In RELIGION: – The trend in religion is in full step with the other two Departments discussed aforegoing, Even Pope Paul Vl – the Infallible One, the Vicar of Christ on Earth (?) – is groping for the handle of compromise, apparently much aware of the ancient saying, “If we do not hang together, then we shall hang separately.” To this end a number of feelers have come from him: (1) Perhaps it is right to believe that all true Church members (the consecrated) constitute the Priesthood (some 450 years after the Great Protestant Martin Luther voiced this great Truth to them!). (2) If we have done wrong to our Protestant brethren (?), we should determine what the wrong has been, and seek to make amends. (3) The Jews alone should not be held accountable for the crucifixion of our Lord; it is the responsibility of all mankind. And with this latter admission in the foreground, the Pope now counsels a place for the Jews in the Christian brotherhood; they should be brought to understand that Jesus is Savior of Jew and Gentile alike. Nor is our erstwhile esteemed Brother R, G. Jolly treading one whit behind the “Chiefest of the Chief” apostates (in Big Babylon) – and with That Evil Servant (the Little Pope in Little Babylon); he also is in full accord with Pope Paul, as he now attempts to put the Message of Salvation into Hebrew print in his latest gesture toward the Jew (walking in the footsteps of the ungodly as he joins in “My Lord delayeth”) – to do now what both Brother Russell and Brother Johnson taught would not be accomplished until after Armageddon –­ after the Great Company has been cleansed. (See our paper No. 102 on “Leprous Miriam” And in this he is the more to be condemned, because Pope Paul never had the beneficent Truth teachings of the last two Principal Men, as R. G. Jolly has had over the past 50 years. But all this is in harmony with the Scriptural prophecies, “and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll” (Is. 34:4see Berean Comment).

COMBINATIONISM

Once more we quote Brother Johnson’s definition of Combinationism as given in E-9:395 – “By combinationism we mean an illicit union of God’s people with evil persons, principles, things and practices. The consecrated practice combina­tionism when they mix their practices with Great or Little Babylon’s erroneous principles and practices, e.g., introducing clericalistic principles and practices among the consecrated, uniting with them in their studies, services, and characteristics. The justified practice combinationism when they mix their principles and practices with those of the Camp (as example, mixing supposedly tentatively justified Campers Consecrated with the Camp in general–JJH).”

To the foregoing we add from Reprints, p. 5479, col. 2 last par: “Some of us heard God’s voice early in the harvest, and therefore we had the responsibility earlier; some heard later. Some are hearing now about the sins of Babylon – that these sins are about to be punished, and that they should come out and be on God’s side, if they would have Divine favor.”

Note now R. G. Jolly’s proclamation in his December Bible Standard:

“In many areas our visiting ministers can put on attractive Bible film and filmstrip showings... These are very suitable for churches, for Sunday Schools.. missions.”

When That Servant was conducting his Attestatorial Service in 1914-16 he positively refused to show the Photo Drama in churches even when they requested it, saying he did not wish to appear to be placing his endorsement upon them (See E-14: 35). The present “cleansed” Levite does just the reverse – he is actually solicit­ing the churches to receive him and his (he is inviting them instead of refusing their invitation, as did That Faithful and Wise Servant). Is it any wonder that over nine years of his Attestatorial Service have proven such a dismal failure – ­whereas, the truly “cleansed” conductor of the Photo Drama had phenomenal success with his Attestatorial Service in two short years? Just one more instance of R. G. Jolly’s revolutionism against Parousia-Epiphany teachings.

Following further with the quotation from page 5479 (written in June, 1914):

“The days that are almost upon us (just six weeks before World War One began-!JJH) will surely bring ‘weeping and gnashing of teeth’ to many of the Lord’s people... It is the desire to further sound out this present message (to “come out of her” – ­instead of joining in service with her, as R. G. Jolly is now attempting to doJJH) that has led us to the production of the PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION” (the Filmstrips R. G. Jolly is trying to show in Big Babylon now is a parallel to the Photo-Drama. R. G. Jolly contends–JJH).

From the foregoing, it requites no argument that the Attestatorial Service of the Fully Faithful Little Flock was for the very purpose of separating Gods people from Babylon; whereas, the present prolonged Attestatorial Service states its purpose to be just the reverse – TO COMBINE WITH BABYLON! And the most guilty of all in this latter respect is the self-admitted “cleansed” leader in Little Babylon; he leaves none of his adherents in ignorance as to his intentions: he himself announces he is ready enough to combine with Babylon if Babylon is willing to combine with him!

“Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, saith the Lord.” Certainly, the Great Company leaders in Little Babylon are more responsible than their colleagues in Big Babylon, because of the greater light that has been theirs. And Brother Russell says of such, “They are about to go into a great time of trouble, and it will be their own fault.” Their works will be burned in the general conflagration. As Brother Russell says of such in Reprints p. 4036, col. 2, top:

“Not faithful to their covenant of sacrifice, the Azazel Goat Class are not counted worthy to escape those things coming on the world, and hence will have their portion with the hypocrites.”

These people are reasonably well described by R. G. Jolly himself in his December Bible Standard, page 93, col. 1, under his caption “THE SINNERS”; but in none of his expressions does he pointedly designate them as the Great Company, the Azazel Goat Class, or as crown-losers, as Brother Russell and Brother Johnson so pointedly set out, and teach. If R. G. Jolly were the “cleansed” Levite that he claims to be, then he wouldn’t fail to make clear to his Great Company brethren – especially in Little Babylon – the Epiphany Truth, and exposures, substantiated by the Scriptures that Brother Johnson so faithfully gave to us for their help and enlightenment. But this kind of work would not be popular, of course – would not endear him to the “large Company” that he is seeking as a following for his sect – doing just any kind of work other than what the Lord would have him do – just as “one that beateth the air.” (1 Cor. 9:26; See also Manna Comments for January 14)

THE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER PRESENT TRUTH

In his last paper R. G. Jolly again berates the “sifter” on pages 84-88, the same containing more than the usual number of “Great Companyish falsehoods” (see E-10:225, par. 1), in which many of the citations he offers actually disprove his claims, rather than support them. In this he probably reposes in the truism that “You can fool some of the people all the time,” and that many of his readers are too “sleepy” to concern themselves with verifying his references. We shall concern ourselves with just one of his statements – the one on page 88, col. 2, par. 3, where­in he attempts defense of our attack on his new tract, “Earth’s Theocratic Government! Here he states, “Obviously space in such a short tract would not permit, nor would it be tactful to go into such details with the public.” Yet when he first mentioned this tract in the July 1963 Bible Standard he made it very clear that this tract was for only one section of Little Babylon – namely, the Jehovah’s Witnesses (the same as his tract with their name mentioned): “These leaflets are intended... not for general distribution.” Just what is his difference between “the public” and “general distribution”? Of course, here again, there is a chance he is so befuddled by Azazel that he doesn’t now remember what he published in July; in any event, his two state­ments are a direct contradiction of each other. Is it any wonder the “sifter” finds so much “fault” with him? And to this we add the sage observation of That Servant in Reprints p. 5390, col. 2, last par., “The spirit of error would be the power, or influence, of falsehood.” This spirit we find working today in all three groups we now discuss; and especially is this true in RELIGION. To burn “heretics” at the stake, or execute them in other heinous fashion, is no longer permissible in our enlightened day; thus, name-calling (“sifter,” “shyster,” and the like) and falsehood are the only refuge of errorists in our times. It is little wonder he did not even have this tract on display at the Philadelphia Convention – after our exposure of it (See our No. 99, Sept. 1963 paper, pp. 5-8).

Having no wish to waste “profusion of words” against R. G. Jolly’s falsehoods in his last venomous attempt, we merely cite again Brother Johnson’s teaching in E-11:591 as follows:

“There is a threefold set of antitypes of the tabernacle type: (1) the Gospel­Age antitype, (2) the Epiphany antitype and (3) the Millennial-Age antitype. ONLY ONE OF THESE THREE ANTITYPES OPERATES AT A TIME,”

Therefore, we now ask R. G. Jolly once more: Which Tabernacle antitype is operating at present? A clear answer from him on this will make readily available a clear refu­tation of the bedlam he is now offering. And again we stress, A place in the taber­nacle type represents a condition in the antitype. Therefore, what condition is represented by his present antitypical Camp? We realize he is afraid to answer these two questions, because then his “folly will be made manifest to all.”

MORE PAROUSIA REVOLUTIONISM

In our paper No. 98, P. 1, we quoted from E-5:497 – “Every feature of the Parousia Truth will have been repudiated and attacked by one or another of the sixty groups of Levite leaders.”

We now offer one more corroboration of this teaching by R. G. Jolly’s repudiation of That Servant’s interpretation of Psa. 46, which is best described in the January 1927 PT, p. 11, col. 2, pars. 1-2:

“Thus Bro. Adam’s butcheries (we know of no better word to describe his perversion of these Scrip­tures)... avail nothing in proof of his error that the Church will be delivered com­pletely before Armageddon... This is manifest, among other passages, from Psa. 46, which teaches that not only throughout Armageddon, but also at least in part of the Anarchy, will the Church be in the earth... We marvel that, in the face of so clear a passage, interpreted as above for us by our Pastor, brethren will allow Satan so completely to befuddle them... Surely it can only then be understood when we remember that they are in Azazel’s hands, and therefore cannot think clearly while in that condition.”

Yes, R. G. Jolly has now joined hands with Adam Rutherford (who is now endorsing and distributing the literature of Anglo-Israelism), and is endorsing his “butcheries” – all the while he shouts “sifter” at others as a cover-up for his own deflections.

Let us not forget that Brother Johnson’s explanation of the Epiphany Tabernacle placed crown-retaining New Creatures in the Holy – in harmony with his interpretation of Rev. 22:11. But R. G. Jolly, who now embraces the “butcheries” of Adam Rutherford, has had a complete void in his Holy since October 1950 – four full years before even he contended that the Epiphany, even in its “restricted” sense, had reached its end.

On p. 14 of the same 1927 PT, Brother Johnson adds this: “The above sufficiently proves his (Adam Rutherford’s) views not to be ‘meat in due season.’ 0 Levites, Levites, when will you learn not to draw near to the Holy Vessels and Altar?” –­ as R. G. Jolly has done in a bold attempt to offer his “strange fire” of Campers Consecrated. Yes,

“In the Parousia and in the Epiphany the Truth has been brought by the Lord to the view of the faithful and the un­faithful (those who have built upon Christ as “the sand”JH) – and has been the means of separating them. (E-11:263)

And not only does R. G. Jolly endorse Adam Rutherford’s “butcheries,” but he also, walks in the identical footsteps of his kinsmen Parousia crown-losers, when he advised Brother Roach, of Trinidad, just not to agitate if he did not believe the “strange fire” of Campers Consecrated. Apparently, R. G. Jolly would still welcome him as his representative there had he been willing to bow the knee to such comprom­ise; and a parallel to this is clearly set forth in E-9:579, as Brother Johnson con­trasts the Fully Faithful Brother Russell and the crown-losing leaders early in the Parousia:

“In this they acted as many a nominal-church preacher did during the reaping time when they expressed the desire that various brethren remain in, and help the churches, believing as they wished, only keeping the harvest Truth to themselves.”

When Socrates was ordered to be his own executioner by drinking a cup of Hem­lock, the last words he said before draining the poison cup were, “No evil can come to a good man”! It is just possible he had read Psa. 91:10, “There shall no evil befall thee.” However that may be, God’s faithful people have the sure promises of Psalms 91; and our New Year’s wish to all our readers is that this may be their strong assurance throughout 1964. Also, we acknowledge with grateful appreciation the many Holiday greetings and well wishes that have come to us, and we reciprocate them in kind, wishing for all that “thou mayest prosper, and be in health, Beloved”! (1 John 2)

Sincerely your brother, John J. Hoefle, Pilgrim

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LETTERS OF GENERAL INTEREST

Fred E. Blaine Again

November 2, 1963

To Fred E. Blaine:

In your discourse at Chicago at 3 p.m. October 27 you stated that you and others in the LHMM are the only “cleansed Levites” who are presently retaining and defending the teachings of the Laodicean Stars; and you quoted from E-9:352 – “To repudiate That Servant’s teachings or to put others in their place is equivalent to repudiat­ing God’s teachings, or to put others in their place.” You then stated that the one who is now rejecting Brother Russell’s teaching on the 1,000-yr-reign is actually repudiating God’s teaching. I assume in that statement you were referring to me. If I am wrong in this conclusion, I shall be happy to have you so inform me.

Your comments were very general and indefinite, so I cannot be sure you really know what I actually believe; hence, I shall explain: It is my belief that our Lord returned in 1874, and that He then immediately began to take to Himself His great power, the first move being the start of “binding the strong man,” the same proceed­ing and continuing for 1,000 years to 2874, at which time “Satan shall be loosed for a little season.” But it is also my contention that the statement in Rev. 20:4 – ­“They (the 144,000) lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years” – could not possibly begin at 1874 because not even one of the 144,000 was then living and reigning with Christ. Now, if you have any reference from Brother Russell that says I am wrong in this, will you please give it to me in the enclosed stamped envelope. I assume you have enough “love of the Truth” – and enough regard for your own personal integrity – ­that you will be very pleased to send me your proof, if you have it, of your public declaration.

You have made public expression that you will not engage in controversy with a “sifter”; but your conduct in Chicago on October 27, 1963, now puts the lie to your contention, and clearly reveals you follow the technique of your “cleansed” leader R. G. Jolly: You don’t hesitate at all to engage in controversy from a Convention platform, where you are the only controversialist who is allowed to speak, and where you are sure you will be safe. But, with many miles now separating you from this “Proven sifter” (your own words here), where you may be sure you are safe in Chicago in your own warm little bed, perhaps you will be brave enough to give me written answer to just one more small question:

Brother Russell and Brother Johnson both clearly and definitely explained from Psalms 46, and from the Samson type (see Berean Comment an Judges 16:30), and from Matt. 5:14 (see Berean Comment), that at least some of the Saints will remain on earth until after Armageddon (Brother Johnson says any one who disputes this is surely “befuddled by Azazel”). Therefore, will you now please let me know if you, as the “cleansed” Levite you claim to be, are retaining this set of teachings by the Laodicean Stars, or are you in fact repudiating them, and thus “repudiating God’s teachings”? (quoted from your own reference in E-9:352)

I await your prompt response, Sincerely, (Signed) John J. Hoefle

Our Comments on the foregoing letter:

It should occasion no surprise that we never received an answer to the fore­going. Clearly enough, Fred Blaine – like his leader R. G. Jolly – is ready enough with his “profusion of words” so long as he is sure he’ll be safe, as is the case with all ‘hollow’ men; But

Hollow men, like horses hot at hand,

Make gallant show and promise of their metal;

But when they would endure the bloody spur,

They fall their crests, and, like deceitful jades,

Sink in the trial…

We impress our readers once more with the fact that at no time have we attacked publicly any of the lesser lights in the LHMM until they first attacked us. And even so, we do this not in the spirit of personal self-defense (although our office of General Elder would prompt us any time to resist slander), because we believe that those who have known us over the years are well convinced that our own integrity needs no defense – our good works and good character have been openly manifest to all.

Even in the case of J. W. Krewson, we made no public attempt against him until he himself forced the issue. However, in his case, we would have been obligated to expose his errors, which he addressed to the General Church in usurping the office of General Elder – although in attacking R. G. Jolly’s presentations, we were largely refuting much J. W, Krewson is presenting, because in many instances they are defending the same perversions, revolutionisms and “strange fire.” And we realized, too, that J. W. Krewson probably would not be so far in his “path of error” had it not been that R. G. Jolly gave him his first impetus by accepting his flattering parallels, etc., and publishing his errors in the Present Truth – which now leaves R. G. Jolly in the ‘odd’ position of defending J. W. Krewson’s errors, while attack­ing him for attempting to ‘profit’ himself through his errors.

However, in none of this have we derived any pleasure. “Love rejoiceth not in iniquity”; and, as “God hath no pleasure in the death of the wicked,” so also have we experienced only anguish of heart and mind as we observe formerly esteemed brethren revolutionizing against the Truth that once sanctified them. And, were it only a matter of our own sentiments, we would even now ignore their doings – considering them only of trifling worth; but we realize there are the sheep to be considered and pro­tected; hence, our open exposure of such perverters. If they keep their error to themselves, then they have little to fear from us. But, when we do determine they need some public attention, we try to do it well.

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­Epiphany Bible Students Ass’n

Dear Sirs: I take great pleasure to address you on the eloquent way in which you give the definition to “What is the Soul.” I was fortunate enough to obtain one, and after reading it I have passed it on to others. Each and every one is delighted with its explanation. May it please you to send me copies of The Resurrection, The Three Babylons, and Where are the Dead.

I remain Yours truly, ------- (TRINIDAD)

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Dear Brother Hoefle: - Grace and Peace!

Thank you for the continued monthly papers we gladly receive. They are soul satisfying, and we thank the Lord for your faithful witness and service. Throughout the earth there is much turmoil & trouble of various kinds, and we can expect more... As we have been twice cast out – once by the Society and now again by R. G. Jolly, we, too, have had similar experience – yet we rejoice also that our fight is the “good fight” of faith, its principles of Truth and righteousness... Sister ------- joins me in love to you, Sister Hoefle and all of like precious faith with whom you meet. (see October 25 Manna & Comments)

Your.brother by His Grace, ------- (ENGLAND)