Babylon The Great -- Wondrous Mystery of our Times!
Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2023 11:29 am
"BABYLON THE GREAT" — WONDROUS MYSTERY OF OUR TIMES!
(Revelation Chapters 17 & 18)
See full color blog at this link: https://yorww.com/babylon.html
At Revelation 17:1-5 we find these words:
"And one of the seven angels that had the seven bowls came and spoke with me, saying: `Come, I will show you the judgment upon the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, whereas those who inhabit the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.'
"And he carried me away in [the power of the] spirit into a wilderness. And I caught sight of a woman sitting upon a scarlet-colored wild beast that was full of blasphemous names and that had seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and was adorned with gold and precious stone and pearls and had in her hand a golden cup that was full of disgusting things and the unclean things of her fornication. And upon her forehead was written a name, a mystery:
Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots and of the disgusting things of the earth."
Who really is this most mysterious woman spoken of in the Bible as "Babylon the Great," the Great Mystery [Greek mysterion]? And why is she such a great "mystery?" True to the saying, even up until our day and time, this "Woman" has indeed remained a great mystery! (Revelation 17:5,7) Fortunately, the pages of God's Prophetic Word the Bible describe with great detail and precision the identity of this age-old mystery-city. To be sure, this "mystery" would be finally unlocked and understood for the benefit of God's people all over the world in the "time of the end." That's a promise that we can rely upon! — Daniel 12:4; Habakkuk 2:3
REVISITING THE ANCIENT CITY
But before we attempt to unlock this age-old "religious secret" [mysterion], let's go back in time to revisit the name sake and forerunner city of Babylon the Great, yes the original Babylon the Great, the great city, situated upon the mighty Euphrates River centuries ago.
According to Harper's Bible Dictionary, the name "babylon" is itself derived from:
"Akkadian bab ili, which means gate of god."
The name, Babylon, highlights the city itself as being, not only the great cultural, learning center of it's time, but also more importantly, as the great, religious center or city of worship. Yes, it was said to be the "gate of god" itself. Also, the same source mentions that the name of Babylon became synonymous with the entire spectrum of lands held within it's region: It states:
"In the Hebrew Bible, Babylon (Heb. bavel) refers both to Babylonia and Babylon, the region and its capital."
Yes, but one might ask: "Just how great was this city that ruled the whole world for a God-decreed 70 years? (Jeremiah 29:10) Well, the literal city of Babylon (in Nebuchadnezzar's day) was the largest city in the world, covering a very impressive 2,500 acres. The river Euphrates flowed through the heart of this powerful city, passing in close proximity to the illustrious ziggurat Etemenanki, otherwise known as the Tower of Babel. Of course it was at the original Tower of Babel that God confused the languages of the builders of this tower. These individuals took their pagan teachings with them to all parts of the globe.
Yes, from this "Tower of Babel" came forth many religious teachings we see common, among many religions of our time all over the world. Today one can find common teachings, tricklings of false beliefs, held together by a seeming common denominator. We find this common denominator of false teachings prevalent in practically all forms of worship, the worldwide — among Christendom or non-Christendom lands.
In contrast, it is to be noted that the Mosaic Law Covenant, created a deep division between pagan nations and their form of worship and the worship of "Israel," since God's Name people possessed a "framework of truth," unlike all other nations which surrounded them. This "framework of truth," separated them as distinct, completely different in their form of worship, as long as they carefully obeyed God's Commandments. In fact, this "Law" given by God, actually elevated the entire nation's worship high above all other forms of worship, like a high mountain towers over smaller hills. — Deuteronomy 7:5, 6; 26:16-19; 28:1, 2; Micah 4:1
An example of a common denominator among religions today can be found in teachings such as the immortality of the human soul and eternal punishment in fiery torment for the wicked. These beliefs can be found in many differing forms of worship today worldwide. Also, the worship of gods in a triune form of some kind, as well as the veneration of images whether in the form of the cross or some other, help us identify pagan relics or embellishments of religious rites, which started in the "east," or at the "Tower of Babel." Further, rituals such as Christmas, Easter, and Halloween (All Souls Day) are all pagan celebrations that originated in Babylon or the "East."
"BABYLON" — THE GREAT CITY REMEMBERED
Perhaps, most noteworthy to readers of the Holy Scriptures today and no doubt most remembered by those who think of the Great City of Babylon is the fact that:
This particular city became famous for holding God's people, the nation of Israel as captives for a specific period of 70 years. Yes, 70 years! — 2 Chronicles 36:20, 21; Daniel 9:2
As we recall, this specific period ran from Daniel's capture under wicked King Jehoiakim's rule, until the Jews were release by Cyrus. And so, counting from the time of Daniel's capture until the actual release of the Jewish nation from captivity covered some 70 years, as "discerned" by Daniel. (Daniel 9:2)
Now at this point of the discussion, I suggest a distinct possibility.
First, I suggest modern-day "Israel" of Bible prophecy is today, represented as a nation, by Jehovah's Witnesses.
Which leads to the next thought. If this is true, then, we must now ask at this time the question:
Is possible, that in addition to Jehovah's Witnesses being modern day "Israel" of Bible prophecy, that also, there exists a modern-day "Babylon the Great" counterpart, for our modern-day times too? And what's more, could it be this modern-day counterpart of ancient Babylon, could exist today, and have a controlling, yes even captivating hold upon this same said people, namely Jehovah's Witnesses, as "Israel"? Could this be possible?
Further, is it possible that scripturally, we could prove that modern-day "Israel" (Jehovah's Witnesses) today, could possibly be under the complete control of this modern-day Babylon the Great, namely the Watchtower Society itself?
THE QUESTION OF ESCAPE FROM "MYSTERIOUS" BABYLON OF OUR DAY
We are all reminded that, Jehovah's Witnesses really pride themselves as being different from all other forms of religion in matters of doctrinal confusion as we see evident in such teachings as the "trinity," or eternal torment in "hellfire," and the widely observed celebrations of pagan holidays. It is believed that these teachings and many others really make Jehovah's Witnesses different from all forms of religions today. However, is this enough to prove that the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses are no part of Babylon the Great? Can Jehovah's Witnesses truly say that they have left or totally gotten out of Babylon the Great as of the year 1919? (Revelation 18:4) To properly answer these questions and finally ascertain what the mystery of Babylon really means for our day and time, we must understand what the Watchtower Society teaches concerning the following:
(a) When and how did "Babylon the Great" fall?
(b) How did Jehovah's Witnesses make their escape from "Babylon" after its fall?
HOW BABYLON THE GREAT "FELL," ACCORDING TO THE WATCHTOWER SOCIETY
The Watchtower Society has taught for many years that strenuous and persistent efforts toward establishment of a separate organization free from Babylonish influence and political control were made back in the 1870's under Charles T. Russell. However, `escape from Babylon' was not fully accomplished or achieved until 1919. Why? Because that was the year Babylon the Great fell! (Revelation 18:2) Following is a verbatim quote presenting the position of Jehovah's Witnesses on this matter. Notice this lengthy and indepth explanation on the subject:
"In 1914 `the Son of man arrived in his glory,' and since that time Jesus, installed `on his glorious throne' in the heavens, has been exercising authority over the earth as Jehovah's associate King and Judge. It is fitting, then, that he should announce the fall of Babylon the Great. — Matthew 25:31, 32.
"Whom does this angel with great authority use in heralding such amazing news before mankind? Why, it is the very people that are released as a result of that fall, the remaining anointed ones on earth, the John class. From 1914 to 1918, these suffered greatly at the hands of Babylon the Great, but in 1918 the Lord Jehovah and his `messenger of the [Abrahamic] covenant,' Jesus Christ, began judgment with `the house of God,' those professing to be Christians. Thus apostate Christendom was brought to trial. (Malachi 3:1; 1 Peter 4:17) Her tremendous bloodguilt incurred during the first world war, her complicity in persecuting Jehovah's faithful witnesses, and her Babylonish creeds did not help her in the time of judgment; nor did any other part of Babylon the Great merit God's approval. —Compare Isaiah 13:1-9.
"So by 1919 Babylon the Great had fallen, opening the way for God's people to be released and restored, in one day as it were, to their land of spiritual prosperity. (Isaiah 66:8) By that year, Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, the Greater Darius and the Greater Cyrus, had maneuvered matters so that false religion could no longer keep a hold on Jehovah's people. No more could it prevent them from serving Jehovah and making known to all who might hear that harlot-like Babylon the Great is doomed and the vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty is at hand!—Isaiah 45:1-4; Daniel 5:30, 31.
"True, Babylon the Great was not destroyed in 1919 — any more than the ancient city Babylon was destroyed in 539 B.C.E. when it fell to the armies of Cyrus the Persian. But from Jehovah's viewpoint, that organization had fallen. She was judicially condemned, awaiting execution; therefore, false religion could no longer hold Jehovah's people in captivity. (Compare Luke 9:59, 60.) These were released to serve as the Master's faithful and discreet slave in providing spiritual food at the proper time. They had received a judgment of `Well done' and were commissioned to get busy again in Jehovah's work. — Matthew 24:45-47; 25:21, 23; Acts 1:8." — Revelation Its Grand Climax At Hand!, pg. 259-260, par. 4b-7.
Perhaps, after reading this extensive quote, you may see some serious flaws in the Watchtower's Society's explanation of Babylon's fall. But in case you didn't, we will list a few reasons why this explanation cannot be true. We will discuss these point by point as this is the only way we will truly know just what the facts reveal.
WHAT THE FACTS REVEAL
1) This entire explanation of how `Babylon fell,' is based upon the erroneous premise that Jesus was enthroned and came into Kingdom power in the fateful year of 1914 to make this `announcement.'
2) In what way could we say that Jehovah's Witnesses were "released" from the World Empire of False Religion in 1919? Were they released say, doctrinally speaking?
Well, let's keep in mind that the focus of the escape of Jehovah's Witnesses from the clutches of Babylon the Great really has nothing to do with the early efforts of Charles T. Russell in liberating the "International Bible Students." This part of the story must be conveniently left out since all of the religious works of Russell came before Jesus supposedly came into kingdom power in the year of 1914. And so, if you were to ask a witness: "Did Charles Russell and the International Bible Students escape from Babylon the Great?" — they usually look puzzled. However, if one were to think about it, he would have to admit that there must have been at least two escapes from "Babylon the Great" — One during Russell's day, and one during the year of 1919, right? But again, is this what the Bible teaches about true escape from Babylon the Great?
Also, the Watchtower Society has taught for many years the remnant of anointed actually shared bloodguilt for their misdeeds during the war years of 1914-1918. It is taught that they, the "anointed," did not take a neutral stand during those years. Let's notice this quote:
"In similar fashion, the modern-day remnant of spiritual Israel had to do some reforming as to their way and thoughts as World War I ended on November 11, 1918, and they entered still alive on earth into the postwar period. Their exile from God's full favor in Babylon the Great's realm was about to end, and it became the proper time for they to think about their failings and shortcomings with regard to God's worship and service. They had come under a community responsibility because of the bloodshed and violence of World War I. They needed to search for Jehovah and to call upon his name in prayer..." — Man's Salvation Out of World Distress At Hand pgs. 114
And so, according to the Watchtower Society, since Jehovah and Jesus visited the "temple" class in 1918 and rendered appropriate "judgments" upon Christendom as well the anointed "temple" of God, the captivity of Jehovah's Witnesses would prove to be very brief, occurring between the years of 1918 and 1919. A very brief period indeed. However, if the "International Bible Students" of 1919 were really freed from the influences and control of the churches of Babylon the Great, why is it that the organization retained so many teachings and practices that are today viewed as of "pagan" origin? And what about the teachings and beliefs of Charles T. Russell and his early companions? Are these present teachings in harmony with the belief of Charles T. Russell and his understanding of escape from Babylon the Great? Let's examine the following.
As you may remember, prior to 1919 under Charles T. Russell, the International Bible Students, as they were known then, had exposed several false religious teachings such as eternal suffering in hellfire for the wicked, immortality of the human soul, and the trinity doctrine. Even so, it was to be many years after the date of 1919 when Jehovah's Witnesses would discover that Christmas, Birthdays, and the Cross were of pagan origin. (See Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Pages 200, 201 - 1993) Note this quote from the 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, page 148, paragraph 3:
" . . . beginning with its issue of October 15, 1931, The Watchtower no longer bore the cross and crown symbol on its cover." (see 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, pg. 147-149)
So could we say Jehovah's Witnesses were truly free from Babylonish teachings in 1919? Hardly! (See Proverbs 30:12) This raises still another question. What in fact did the Watchtower Society teach as to the identity of Babylon the Great itself during those years?
"BABYLON THE GREAT" AND CHARLES T. RUSSELL
It might surprise you to know that the Watchtower Society has taught three (3) different viewpoints concerning the identity of Babylon the Great over the years. That's right, three different viewpoints.
(1) The Watchtower Society first taught, under Pastor Russell, that Babylon the Great was the "Papacy of Rome."
(2) Secondly, the Watchtower Society taught that Satan's World in general was "Babylon the Great.
(3) And finally, in 1963 the world empire of false religion (inclusive of Christendom and Pagandom) was thought to be mysterious "Babylon the Great" from which one should escape. According to the publication, Jehovah's Witnesses — Proclaimers of Gods Kingdom, Pg. 52, Charles T. Russell published in the November 1879 Watch Tower magazine that "Babylon the Great" was the "Papacy as a system." This was apparently their first viewpoint.
The second viewpoint is revealed in the following excerpt taken from the article "Get Out of Her, My People" printed in the October 1, 1960 Watchtower magazine which says in part:
"... Babylon of old was the pride and joy of God's adversary, Satan the Devil. It was his organization. It so completely represented his foul works that in the Bible, especially in the book of Revelation, it became a symbol of his wicked world organization."
Now notice how the Watchtower Society makes the actual breakdown of exactly what Babylon the Great is suppose to represent. The articles explains:
"This Babylonish world boasts of its [1] military might, [2] political ideologies, [3] economic prosperity and [4] great religions. However, God has decreed the same fate for modern Babylon that befell its ancient counterpart..."
"Now, in this year, the handwriting on the wall for modern Babylon, Satan's world, is clear. Since the beginning of World War I in 1914 this world has entered its foretold "time of the end," the warning of which has been sounded faithfully by Jehovah's modern witnesses for over eighty years. Detailed Bible prophecies are being fulfilled before our eyes." (pg. 581, par. 5, 6 thru 582, par. 4)
Did you notice that this message had been "faithfully sounded" for over "eighty years" as of the year of 1960! That would mean that from the Watchtower Society's conception, during Russell's day, they have carried this message to "Get Out of Babylon" to the people! Yes, in Russell's day. In other words, they [Watchtower Society and Jehovah's Witnesses] had been liberated from Babylon the Great way back in Russell's day. Certainly C.T. Russell didn't feel that he was still in Babylon the Great, the Harlot, did he? Understandably, he must have felt he had successfully escaped from the Great `Harlot,' as is bore out by the following comments by Pastor Russell himself in the May, 1884 Watchtower magazine pg. 5, and also quoted in the Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose publication, (pg. 37) which said:
"Since 1878 (and never before that) we have felt at liberty to call God's children out of the nominal churches to a position of freedom and liberty, where they would be free to serve Him fully, as well as to study his word and be taught of Him: saying, `Babylon ... is fallen and become a habitation of devils and a hold of every foul spirit and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.'
Yes, since the year 1878, Charles T. Russell believed that "escape" was made possible by Jehovah God for all of his people, from "Babylon the Great," or the religious institutions of his time. That point is quite clear we must admit. But let's also notice something else that is very important. In the 1884 Watch Tower, Russell explained the actual "fall" itself of Babylon the Great during his lifetime by saying, and we quote:
"(This falling of the nominal church and receiving into her bosom the corruptions of earth has been in progress for some time). Now comes the message: `And I heard another voice saying, Come out of her my people that ye be not partakers of her sins and receive not of her plagues.' " (Rev. xviii. 2-4)."
Now we ask:
What was Charles T. Russell's position as to his "escape" from the clutches of "Babylon the Great" of his time? Does he not clearly show that he, and numerous others, had indeed "escaped" the "nominal church" organizations of Babylon the Great? Clearly, Charles T. Russell did indeed teach that he and many others had actually "escaped" from Babylon the Great, did he not?
However, consider this. If we adopt the latest viewpoint of the Watchtower Society, that is the one expounded in 1963 on the real `escape from Babylon,' which supposedly occurred in the year of 1919, and not 1878 as Russell taught, we must ask:
"Where does this new explanation, given in the year of 1963, leave Pastor Russell, the leader and founder of the corporate Watch Tower Society, as to his "escape" from Babylon the Great? Yes, where does this new explanation, leave the founder and first publisher of the official journal called the "Watch Tower" magazine, in relation to his actual "escape" from Babylon the Great? Again, where does this new explanation of the true "escape" from Babylon, leave the founder of the modern-day movement of Jehovah's Witnesses, or International Bible Students, as they were known during his time? Did Charles T. Russell, after more than 40 years of preaching and teaching God's Word, himself die, in 1916, `unliberated' from Babylon the Great? Or were there "two escapes" from Babylon — one during Russell's day and one in 1919?
Remember, the true escape from "fallen" Babylon the Great occurred in 1919, as first published in the book, Babylon the Great HAS FALLEN!" God's Kingdom Rules! in 1963. Now, we repeat, if we adopt this more recent viewpoint, then we must face the fact that either Charles T. Russell had not "escaped from Babylon," or after his death in 1916, the organization was re-captured again by Babylon the Great for a brief period of time? We can actually see that what the Watch Tower Society teaches on this subject is very confusing.
Now, lets review in our minds what Revelation 18:2, 4 says. Remember, Babylon would have to "fall" first, BEFORE God's people could "escape," right? (Please reread Revelation 18:2,4.) And there is no mention of any second captivity or re-capturing of God's "people." And so, how did Charles Russell and thousands of "International Bible Students," make their escape from what was thought to be "Babylon the Great" before Babylon actually "falls" in 1919? Further, if Babylon the Great only `fell' in 1919, three years after Russell had died (1916), then how could C.T. Russell, the founding father of the Watchtower Society and it's first President, have made his escape from it? Actually, if this present explanation of matters is true, then C.T. Russell himself, had not really "escaped" from Babylon the Great, that is, before it had "fallen," in God's sight. Remember, the scripture says Babylon "falls" first then God's people make their escape. And certainly, there is no mention of any second captivity, is there?
Therefore, we must ask the Watchtower Society this question in view of their past position on the "escape" from Babylon the Great:
Where does C.T. Russell stand in relation to the great "fall" of Babylon in 1919 C.E.? Did C.T. Russell himself make his escape before Babylon "fell" in 1919, or did he die "unliberated" from Babylon, the Harlot, because he died before Babylon could experience the great "fall" of 1919 C.E.?
However, let us continue along with the explanations in this revealing article. The same 1960 Watchtower magazine furthers points out:
"A heavy responsibility falls on yet another part of the Babylonish world, the false religious element, which has divided people and confused their knowledge of God." — Watchtower 1960 pg. 583 par. 3
Also, the summation of the matter is made for us in these comments under the heading "Get Out of Her," in the same magazine which says:
"All these things are part of the great sign of the times that Jesus gave, indicating the near end of this world. The complete wrecking of modern Babylon with her [1] hurtful politics, [2] commerce and [3] false religions is fast approaching, yes, within our lifetime!"
And how should the sincere seeker of truth "get out of Her?" Notice this point:
"God is judging the nations today. The warning work of Jehovah's witnesses grows day by day. Take heed to it for your own safety during the coming universal war of Armageddon. What should you do? Study God's Word to ascertain his will and purposes. Then, as you make your mind over to conform to his will, separate yourself from this world's wicked practices and schemes. Put your hope and trust in God's established kingdom." (pg. 583 par. 5-7)
Yes, that is how the Jehovah's Witnesses escaped Babylon the Great — the world under Satan's control! They must "separate from the "world's wicked practices" and "schemes." Now what do you think of that? (See also 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, pg. 147-149.)
End of Part 1.
***
(Revelation Chapters 17 & 18)
See full color blog at this link: https://yorww.com/babylon.html
At Revelation 17:1-5 we find these words:
"And one of the seven angels that had the seven bowls came and spoke with me, saying: `Come, I will show you the judgment upon the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, whereas those who inhabit the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.'
"And he carried me away in [the power of the] spirit into a wilderness. And I caught sight of a woman sitting upon a scarlet-colored wild beast that was full of blasphemous names and that had seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and was adorned with gold and precious stone and pearls and had in her hand a golden cup that was full of disgusting things and the unclean things of her fornication. And upon her forehead was written a name, a mystery:
Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots and of the disgusting things of the earth."
Who really is this most mysterious woman spoken of in the Bible as "Babylon the Great," the Great Mystery [Greek mysterion]? And why is she such a great "mystery?" True to the saying, even up until our day and time, this "Woman" has indeed remained a great mystery! (Revelation 17:5,7) Fortunately, the pages of God's Prophetic Word the Bible describe with great detail and precision the identity of this age-old mystery-city. To be sure, this "mystery" would be finally unlocked and understood for the benefit of God's people all over the world in the "time of the end." That's a promise that we can rely upon! — Daniel 12:4; Habakkuk 2:3
REVISITING THE ANCIENT CITY
But before we attempt to unlock this age-old "religious secret" [mysterion], let's go back in time to revisit the name sake and forerunner city of Babylon the Great, yes the original Babylon the Great, the great city, situated upon the mighty Euphrates River centuries ago.
According to Harper's Bible Dictionary, the name "babylon" is itself derived from:
"Akkadian bab ili, which means gate of god."
The name, Babylon, highlights the city itself as being, not only the great cultural, learning center of it's time, but also more importantly, as the great, religious center or city of worship. Yes, it was said to be the "gate of god" itself. Also, the same source mentions that the name of Babylon became synonymous with the entire spectrum of lands held within it's region: It states:
"In the Hebrew Bible, Babylon (Heb. bavel) refers both to Babylonia and Babylon, the region and its capital."
Yes, but one might ask: "Just how great was this city that ruled the whole world for a God-decreed 70 years? (Jeremiah 29:10) Well, the literal city of Babylon (in Nebuchadnezzar's day) was the largest city in the world, covering a very impressive 2,500 acres. The river Euphrates flowed through the heart of this powerful city, passing in close proximity to the illustrious ziggurat Etemenanki, otherwise known as the Tower of Babel. Of course it was at the original Tower of Babel that God confused the languages of the builders of this tower. These individuals took their pagan teachings with them to all parts of the globe.
Yes, from this "Tower of Babel" came forth many religious teachings we see common, among many religions of our time all over the world. Today one can find common teachings, tricklings of false beliefs, held together by a seeming common denominator. We find this common denominator of false teachings prevalent in practically all forms of worship, the worldwide — among Christendom or non-Christendom lands.
In contrast, it is to be noted that the Mosaic Law Covenant, created a deep division between pagan nations and their form of worship and the worship of "Israel," since God's Name people possessed a "framework of truth," unlike all other nations which surrounded them. This "framework of truth," separated them as distinct, completely different in their form of worship, as long as they carefully obeyed God's Commandments. In fact, this "Law" given by God, actually elevated the entire nation's worship high above all other forms of worship, like a high mountain towers over smaller hills. — Deuteronomy 7:5, 6; 26:16-19; 28:1, 2; Micah 4:1
An example of a common denominator among religions today can be found in teachings such as the immortality of the human soul and eternal punishment in fiery torment for the wicked. These beliefs can be found in many differing forms of worship today worldwide. Also, the worship of gods in a triune form of some kind, as well as the veneration of images whether in the form of the cross or some other, help us identify pagan relics or embellishments of religious rites, which started in the "east," or at the "Tower of Babel." Further, rituals such as Christmas, Easter, and Halloween (All Souls Day) are all pagan celebrations that originated in Babylon or the "East."
"BABYLON" — THE GREAT CITY REMEMBERED
Perhaps, most noteworthy to readers of the Holy Scriptures today and no doubt most remembered by those who think of the Great City of Babylon is the fact that:
This particular city became famous for holding God's people, the nation of Israel as captives for a specific period of 70 years. Yes, 70 years! — 2 Chronicles 36:20, 21; Daniel 9:2
As we recall, this specific period ran from Daniel's capture under wicked King Jehoiakim's rule, until the Jews were release by Cyrus. And so, counting from the time of Daniel's capture until the actual release of the Jewish nation from captivity covered some 70 years, as "discerned" by Daniel. (Daniel 9:2)
Now at this point of the discussion, I suggest a distinct possibility.
First, I suggest modern-day "Israel" of Bible prophecy is today, represented as a nation, by Jehovah's Witnesses.
Which leads to the next thought. If this is true, then, we must now ask at this time the question:
Is possible, that in addition to Jehovah's Witnesses being modern day "Israel" of Bible prophecy, that also, there exists a modern-day "Babylon the Great" counterpart, for our modern-day times too? And what's more, could it be this modern-day counterpart of ancient Babylon, could exist today, and have a controlling, yes even captivating hold upon this same said people, namely Jehovah's Witnesses, as "Israel"? Could this be possible?
Further, is it possible that scripturally, we could prove that modern-day "Israel" (Jehovah's Witnesses) today, could possibly be under the complete control of this modern-day Babylon the Great, namely the Watchtower Society itself?
THE QUESTION OF ESCAPE FROM "MYSTERIOUS" BABYLON OF OUR DAY
We are all reminded that, Jehovah's Witnesses really pride themselves as being different from all other forms of religion in matters of doctrinal confusion as we see evident in such teachings as the "trinity," or eternal torment in "hellfire," and the widely observed celebrations of pagan holidays. It is believed that these teachings and many others really make Jehovah's Witnesses different from all forms of religions today. However, is this enough to prove that the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses are no part of Babylon the Great? Can Jehovah's Witnesses truly say that they have left or totally gotten out of Babylon the Great as of the year 1919? (Revelation 18:4) To properly answer these questions and finally ascertain what the mystery of Babylon really means for our day and time, we must understand what the Watchtower Society teaches concerning the following:
(a) When and how did "Babylon the Great" fall?
(b) How did Jehovah's Witnesses make their escape from "Babylon" after its fall?
HOW BABYLON THE GREAT "FELL," ACCORDING TO THE WATCHTOWER SOCIETY
The Watchtower Society has taught for many years that strenuous and persistent efforts toward establishment of a separate organization free from Babylonish influence and political control were made back in the 1870's under Charles T. Russell. However, `escape from Babylon' was not fully accomplished or achieved until 1919. Why? Because that was the year Babylon the Great fell! (Revelation 18:2) Following is a verbatim quote presenting the position of Jehovah's Witnesses on this matter. Notice this lengthy and indepth explanation on the subject:
"In 1914 `the Son of man arrived in his glory,' and since that time Jesus, installed `on his glorious throne' in the heavens, has been exercising authority over the earth as Jehovah's associate King and Judge. It is fitting, then, that he should announce the fall of Babylon the Great. — Matthew 25:31, 32.
"Whom does this angel with great authority use in heralding such amazing news before mankind? Why, it is the very people that are released as a result of that fall, the remaining anointed ones on earth, the John class. From 1914 to 1918, these suffered greatly at the hands of Babylon the Great, but in 1918 the Lord Jehovah and his `messenger of the [Abrahamic] covenant,' Jesus Christ, began judgment with `the house of God,' those professing to be Christians. Thus apostate Christendom was brought to trial. (Malachi 3:1; 1 Peter 4:17) Her tremendous bloodguilt incurred during the first world war, her complicity in persecuting Jehovah's faithful witnesses, and her Babylonish creeds did not help her in the time of judgment; nor did any other part of Babylon the Great merit God's approval. —Compare Isaiah 13:1-9.
"So by 1919 Babylon the Great had fallen, opening the way for God's people to be released and restored, in one day as it were, to their land of spiritual prosperity. (Isaiah 66:8) By that year, Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, the Greater Darius and the Greater Cyrus, had maneuvered matters so that false religion could no longer keep a hold on Jehovah's people. No more could it prevent them from serving Jehovah and making known to all who might hear that harlot-like Babylon the Great is doomed and the vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty is at hand!—Isaiah 45:1-4; Daniel 5:30, 31.
"True, Babylon the Great was not destroyed in 1919 — any more than the ancient city Babylon was destroyed in 539 B.C.E. when it fell to the armies of Cyrus the Persian. But from Jehovah's viewpoint, that organization had fallen. She was judicially condemned, awaiting execution; therefore, false religion could no longer hold Jehovah's people in captivity. (Compare Luke 9:59, 60.) These were released to serve as the Master's faithful and discreet slave in providing spiritual food at the proper time. They had received a judgment of `Well done' and were commissioned to get busy again in Jehovah's work. — Matthew 24:45-47; 25:21, 23; Acts 1:8." — Revelation Its Grand Climax At Hand!, pg. 259-260, par. 4b-7.
Perhaps, after reading this extensive quote, you may see some serious flaws in the Watchtower's Society's explanation of Babylon's fall. But in case you didn't, we will list a few reasons why this explanation cannot be true. We will discuss these point by point as this is the only way we will truly know just what the facts reveal.
WHAT THE FACTS REVEAL
1) This entire explanation of how `Babylon fell,' is based upon the erroneous premise that Jesus was enthroned and came into Kingdom power in the fateful year of 1914 to make this `announcement.'
2) In what way could we say that Jehovah's Witnesses were "released" from the World Empire of False Religion in 1919? Were they released say, doctrinally speaking?
Well, let's keep in mind that the focus of the escape of Jehovah's Witnesses from the clutches of Babylon the Great really has nothing to do with the early efforts of Charles T. Russell in liberating the "International Bible Students." This part of the story must be conveniently left out since all of the religious works of Russell came before Jesus supposedly came into kingdom power in the year of 1914. And so, if you were to ask a witness: "Did Charles Russell and the International Bible Students escape from Babylon the Great?" — they usually look puzzled. However, if one were to think about it, he would have to admit that there must have been at least two escapes from "Babylon the Great" — One during Russell's day, and one during the year of 1919, right? But again, is this what the Bible teaches about true escape from Babylon the Great?
Also, the Watchtower Society has taught for many years the remnant of anointed actually shared bloodguilt for their misdeeds during the war years of 1914-1918. It is taught that they, the "anointed," did not take a neutral stand during those years. Let's notice this quote:
"In similar fashion, the modern-day remnant of spiritual Israel had to do some reforming as to their way and thoughts as World War I ended on November 11, 1918, and they entered still alive on earth into the postwar period. Their exile from God's full favor in Babylon the Great's realm was about to end, and it became the proper time for they to think about their failings and shortcomings with regard to God's worship and service. They had come under a community responsibility because of the bloodshed and violence of World War I. They needed to search for Jehovah and to call upon his name in prayer..." — Man's Salvation Out of World Distress At Hand pgs. 114
And so, according to the Watchtower Society, since Jehovah and Jesus visited the "temple" class in 1918 and rendered appropriate "judgments" upon Christendom as well the anointed "temple" of God, the captivity of Jehovah's Witnesses would prove to be very brief, occurring between the years of 1918 and 1919. A very brief period indeed. However, if the "International Bible Students" of 1919 were really freed from the influences and control of the churches of Babylon the Great, why is it that the organization retained so many teachings and practices that are today viewed as of "pagan" origin? And what about the teachings and beliefs of Charles T. Russell and his early companions? Are these present teachings in harmony with the belief of Charles T. Russell and his understanding of escape from Babylon the Great? Let's examine the following.
As you may remember, prior to 1919 under Charles T. Russell, the International Bible Students, as they were known then, had exposed several false religious teachings such as eternal suffering in hellfire for the wicked, immortality of the human soul, and the trinity doctrine. Even so, it was to be many years after the date of 1919 when Jehovah's Witnesses would discover that Christmas, Birthdays, and the Cross were of pagan origin. (See Jehovah's Witnesses - Proclaimers of God's Kingdom, Pages 200, 201 - 1993) Note this quote from the 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, page 148, paragraph 3:
" . . . beginning with its issue of October 15, 1931, The Watchtower no longer bore the cross and crown symbol on its cover." (see 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, pg. 147-149)
So could we say Jehovah's Witnesses were truly free from Babylonish teachings in 1919? Hardly! (See Proverbs 30:12) This raises still another question. What in fact did the Watchtower Society teach as to the identity of Babylon the Great itself during those years?
"BABYLON THE GREAT" AND CHARLES T. RUSSELL
It might surprise you to know that the Watchtower Society has taught three (3) different viewpoints concerning the identity of Babylon the Great over the years. That's right, three different viewpoints.
(1) The Watchtower Society first taught, under Pastor Russell, that Babylon the Great was the "Papacy of Rome."
(2) Secondly, the Watchtower Society taught that Satan's World in general was "Babylon the Great.
(3) And finally, in 1963 the world empire of false religion (inclusive of Christendom and Pagandom) was thought to be mysterious "Babylon the Great" from which one should escape. According to the publication, Jehovah's Witnesses — Proclaimers of Gods Kingdom, Pg. 52, Charles T. Russell published in the November 1879 Watch Tower magazine that "Babylon the Great" was the "Papacy as a system." This was apparently their first viewpoint.
The second viewpoint is revealed in the following excerpt taken from the article "Get Out of Her, My People" printed in the October 1, 1960 Watchtower magazine which says in part:
"... Babylon of old was the pride and joy of God's adversary, Satan the Devil. It was his organization. It so completely represented his foul works that in the Bible, especially in the book of Revelation, it became a symbol of his wicked world organization."
Now notice how the Watchtower Society makes the actual breakdown of exactly what Babylon the Great is suppose to represent. The articles explains:
"This Babylonish world boasts of its [1] military might, [2] political ideologies, [3] economic prosperity and [4] great religions. However, God has decreed the same fate for modern Babylon that befell its ancient counterpart..."
"Now, in this year, the handwriting on the wall for modern Babylon, Satan's world, is clear. Since the beginning of World War I in 1914 this world has entered its foretold "time of the end," the warning of which has been sounded faithfully by Jehovah's modern witnesses for over eighty years. Detailed Bible prophecies are being fulfilled before our eyes." (pg. 581, par. 5, 6 thru 582, par. 4)
Did you notice that this message had been "faithfully sounded" for over "eighty years" as of the year of 1960! That would mean that from the Watchtower Society's conception, during Russell's day, they have carried this message to "Get Out of Babylon" to the people! Yes, in Russell's day. In other words, they [Watchtower Society and Jehovah's Witnesses] had been liberated from Babylon the Great way back in Russell's day. Certainly C.T. Russell didn't feel that he was still in Babylon the Great, the Harlot, did he? Understandably, he must have felt he had successfully escaped from the Great `Harlot,' as is bore out by the following comments by Pastor Russell himself in the May, 1884 Watchtower magazine pg. 5, and also quoted in the Jehovah's Witnesses in the Divine Purpose publication, (pg. 37) which said:
"Since 1878 (and never before that) we have felt at liberty to call God's children out of the nominal churches to a position of freedom and liberty, where they would be free to serve Him fully, as well as to study his word and be taught of Him: saying, `Babylon ... is fallen and become a habitation of devils and a hold of every foul spirit and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.'
Yes, since the year 1878, Charles T. Russell believed that "escape" was made possible by Jehovah God for all of his people, from "Babylon the Great," or the religious institutions of his time. That point is quite clear we must admit. But let's also notice something else that is very important. In the 1884 Watch Tower, Russell explained the actual "fall" itself of Babylon the Great during his lifetime by saying, and we quote:
"(This falling of the nominal church and receiving into her bosom the corruptions of earth has been in progress for some time). Now comes the message: `And I heard another voice saying, Come out of her my people that ye be not partakers of her sins and receive not of her plagues.' " (Rev. xviii. 2-4)."
Now we ask:
What was Charles T. Russell's position as to his "escape" from the clutches of "Babylon the Great" of his time? Does he not clearly show that he, and numerous others, had indeed "escaped" the "nominal church" organizations of Babylon the Great? Clearly, Charles T. Russell did indeed teach that he and many others had actually "escaped" from Babylon the Great, did he not?
However, consider this. If we adopt the latest viewpoint of the Watchtower Society, that is the one expounded in 1963 on the real `escape from Babylon,' which supposedly occurred in the year of 1919, and not 1878 as Russell taught, we must ask:
"Where does this new explanation, given in the year of 1963, leave Pastor Russell, the leader and founder of the corporate Watch Tower Society, as to his "escape" from Babylon the Great? Yes, where does this new explanation, leave the founder and first publisher of the official journal called the "Watch Tower" magazine, in relation to his actual "escape" from Babylon the Great? Again, where does this new explanation of the true "escape" from Babylon, leave the founder of the modern-day movement of Jehovah's Witnesses, or International Bible Students, as they were known during his time? Did Charles T. Russell, after more than 40 years of preaching and teaching God's Word, himself die, in 1916, `unliberated' from Babylon the Great? Or were there "two escapes" from Babylon — one during Russell's day and one in 1919?
Remember, the true escape from "fallen" Babylon the Great occurred in 1919, as first published in the book, Babylon the Great HAS FALLEN!" God's Kingdom Rules! in 1963. Now, we repeat, if we adopt this more recent viewpoint, then we must face the fact that either Charles T. Russell had not "escaped from Babylon," or after his death in 1916, the organization was re-captured again by Babylon the Great for a brief period of time? We can actually see that what the Watch Tower Society teaches on this subject is very confusing.
Now, lets review in our minds what Revelation 18:2, 4 says. Remember, Babylon would have to "fall" first, BEFORE God's people could "escape," right? (Please reread Revelation 18:2,4.) And there is no mention of any second captivity or re-capturing of God's "people." And so, how did Charles Russell and thousands of "International Bible Students," make their escape from what was thought to be "Babylon the Great" before Babylon actually "falls" in 1919? Further, if Babylon the Great only `fell' in 1919, three years after Russell had died (1916), then how could C.T. Russell, the founding father of the Watchtower Society and it's first President, have made his escape from it? Actually, if this present explanation of matters is true, then C.T. Russell himself, had not really "escaped" from Babylon the Great, that is, before it had "fallen," in God's sight. Remember, the scripture says Babylon "falls" first then God's people make their escape. And certainly, there is no mention of any second captivity, is there?
Therefore, we must ask the Watchtower Society this question in view of their past position on the "escape" from Babylon the Great:
Where does C.T. Russell stand in relation to the great "fall" of Babylon in 1919 C.E.? Did C.T. Russell himself make his escape before Babylon "fell" in 1919, or did he die "unliberated" from Babylon, the Harlot, because he died before Babylon could experience the great "fall" of 1919 C.E.?
However, let us continue along with the explanations in this revealing article. The same 1960 Watchtower magazine furthers points out:
"A heavy responsibility falls on yet another part of the Babylonish world, the false religious element, which has divided people and confused their knowledge of God." — Watchtower 1960 pg. 583 par. 3
Also, the summation of the matter is made for us in these comments under the heading "Get Out of Her," in the same magazine which says:
"All these things are part of the great sign of the times that Jesus gave, indicating the near end of this world. The complete wrecking of modern Babylon with her [1] hurtful politics, [2] commerce and [3] false religions is fast approaching, yes, within our lifetime!"
And how should the sincere seeker of truth "get out of Her?" Notice this point:
"God is judging the nations today. The warning work of Jehovah's witnesses grows day by day. Take heed to it for your own safety during the coming universal war of Armageddon. What should you do? Study God's Word to ascertain his will and purposes. Then, as you make your mind over to conform to his will, separate yourself from this world's wicked practices and schemes. Put your hope and trust in God's established kingdom." (pg. 583 par. 5-7)
Yes, that is how the Jehovah's Witnesses escaped Babylon the Great — the world under Satan's control! They must "separate from the "world's wicked practices" and "schemes." Now what do you think of that? (See also 1975 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses, pg. 147-149.)
End of Part 1.
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