First of all, who are you to criticize Russell? He sat down with his Bible, asked for no help, and the Watchtower is what he came up with. He is the perfect exemplar of the person whose pride will not allow him to seek advice from those wiser and more experienced than himself. The Ethiopean eunuch is a great example of someone who was humble enough to accept advice when it was offered.I know all about Russel.. And he wasn't a believer to start.....
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, COUNCILOR, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
I rely mainly on the Holy Spirit. Too much error with men. Degrees don't mean much to me. They have errors just like any one else. What Philip was relying on a was Esaias the Prophet, big difference. Not saying sitting under Godly men isn't good, but as a new believer yes, but at some point the seasoned believer should be closer with the holy spirit relying more so on Him then relying on men. After 30 years, Pastoral sermons to me are more so reminders and I learn very little from them.
2 Timothy 2:15
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
What does the Bible say? Psalm 141:3-5. 'Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips ........... Let the righteous man strike me; it shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; it shall be as excellent oil; let my head not refuse it.'
If you are so wise that you no longer need to hear sermons, I expect you are far too clever to accept advice from me, but I draw your attention to James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5. 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'
