What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe About the First Resurrection?
Jehovah's Witnesses have a unique perspective on some biblical teachings, particularly concerning the first resurrection or what some may refer to as the 'rapture.' This article aims to clarify their beliefs on this topic, providing context and insight into their interpretations.
Introduction to Jehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's Witnesses strictly adhere to the Bible as their sole source of religious authority. They believe in:
_State-of-the-art Bible translations and interpretations._ _A literal and spiritual understanding of biblical texts._This strict adherence to biblical texts often leads to differing beliefs compared to mainstream Christian denominations. One such belief is the 'rapture,' which Jehovah's Witnesses do not regard as a matter of belief.
No Rapture, Only Revelation
According to Jehovah's Witnesses, the concept of the 'rapture' as understood by many is a misinterpretation of biblical texts. They firmly believe that:
No rapture exists. Jehovah and Jesus alone know who will be the first to be resurrected. The first resurrection occurred after 1914 when Jesus became king and cleansed the heavens of wicked angels, casting them to earth.During this time, those who had been baptized and anointed with God’s spirit were resurrected as spirit beings to rule with Jesus. Subsequently, any further anointed ones who died were immediately resurrected to be with Jesus.
Scriptural Basis for the First Resurrection
The primary scriptural basis for the first resurrection can be found in Revelation 20:4. Jehovah's Witnesses encourage individuals to study the Bible and understand its teachings, rather than relying on interpretations or traditions.
“I am the first and the last; and, behold, I will give unto thee the kingdom of thy fathers. And the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.”
These verses, among others, provide the foundation for their belief in a literal first resurrection.
Misunderstandings and FAQs
Are Jehovah's Witnesses opposed to the concept of the resurrected? Why do they believe only Jehovah and Jesus know the identity of the first resurrected? Is there a millennial reign involved in their belief?For Jehovah's Witnesses, the millennial reign is a literal period during which Christ will rule on earth, often referred to as the 'thousand years.' They see this period as an essential part of the biblical narrative, explaining the reign of saints over angels and the general resurrection of the dead.
Conclusion
Understanding the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses regarding the first resurrection can be complex due to their unique interpretation of biblical texts. While they do not agree with the concept of the 'rapture,' they firmly believe that the first resurrection refers to a specific event that took place in the early 20th century. For more detailed information, individuals are encouraged to study the Bible and consult official Jehovah's Witness publications.