Understanding Jehovah's Witnesses and Jesus' Invisible Presence in 1914

Do Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Christ returned to Earth invisibly in 1914 and now rules from heaven? This article explores the nuances of this belief, addressing the context within which it originated and its implications for their understanding of biblical prophecy.

jesus’ invisible 'presence'

The Earliest Recorded Beliefs

Jesus died and was resurrected as a "spirit," as indicated in the Bible. According to First Peter 3:18, His "return" was not a visible one, but rather an invisible presence as stated in First Timothy 6:13–16. This invisible presence marked the beginning of His "parousia," which refers not just to the "coming" but more appropriately to His "presence," a state in which He is present in power as King of God's Kingdom.

establishment of god's kingdom in 1914

The Foundation of Their Belief

According to Jehovah's Witnesses, Jesus' invisible "presence" began in 1914, following the establishment of God's Kingdom. This event signified the beginning of His rule from heaven, leading to the end times as described in various biblical passages, including the end of the gentile times and the commencement of the last days.

The Historical Context

The belief in 1914 as the year of Christ's invisible presence is deeply rooted in their reading of biblical texts. They see this as the fulfillment of various prophecies, such as the end of the gentile times (Luke 21:24) and the establishment of the Davidic line of kings (Psalm 45:4) based on Daniel's vision (Daniel 4).

the relevance to the first world war

The Wars of The Last Days

The Watchtower Foundation highlights key events, such as the First World War, as prophetic markers of the last days, reflecting the beginning of Christ's reign through His invisible presence. The first World War, with its swift and chaotic escalation, is seen as a symbolic representation of the battles foretold in biblical prophecy.

prophecies and interpretations

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

The four horsemen of the Apocalypse in Revelation chapter 6, often misinterpreted, are seen by Jehovah's Witnesses as representing different elements of divine judgment and judgment in the earth. The white horse, symbolizing Christ's coronation, is clearly described as:

The first rider on the white horse: Jesus the Lamb following His coronation. The red horse: representing human warfare, marked by events like the rapid escalation of the First World War.

Historical Context and Significance

The rapid and unprecedented nature of the First World War, from July 28, 1914, to August 4, 1914, provides an almost literal fulfillment of biblical prophecy. This swift and chaotic escalation is seen as a reflection of the global conflict of the last days.

conclusion and summary

Final Thoughts on Christ’s Invisible Presence

In summary, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus' invisible presence began in 1914, marking the start of His rule from heaven as described in various biblical passages. This invisible presence, a state of "parousia," is seen as pivotal in understanding their prophecy and the events leading up to the establishment of God's Kingdom.

Do you have your Bible handy? If you do, a deep dive into Matthew 24 and other relevant passages can provide further insights into this fascinating topic.