At a recent convention in Ohio, the Executive Trustee once again said that the door to the high calling closed or "Slammed shut!" more than once. Listen to the entire seven minute question and answer here. This obvious error contradicts what Pastor Russell has stated in his writings.
What Pastor Russell Said, Pages 150-51
"...We concede it reasonable to infer that the close of the favors upon fleshly Israel represent the close of the special favor of this Gospel Age, viz., the invitation to the High Calling; accordingly, our understanding is that the open' or general 'call' of this Age to Kingdom honors ceased in October, 1881. However, as already shown in Scripture Studies, we make a distinction between the end of the 'call' and the closing of the 'door;' and believe that the open' or general 'call' of this Age to Kingdom honors ceased in October, 1881. However, as already shown in Scripture Studies, we make a distinction between the end of the "call" and the closing of the 'door;' and believe that the door into the Kingdom class is not yet closed; that it stands ajar for a time, to permit those who had already accepted the 'call' and who fail to use its privileges and opportunities in self-sacrifice to be thrust out, and to permit others to enter to take their crowns, in harmony with (Rev. 3:11). The present time, therefore, from 1881 until the door of opportunity for sacrifice in the Lord's service shall fully close, is a period of 'sifting' as respects all who are already in Divine favor, in covenant relationship with God."
"This, we trust, makes plain the answer to your question, proving that some not previously consecrated will, in the eleventh hour, be admitted to the vineyard labors and to the rewards of the faithful, after the open call ceased, and before the 'door' closes."
Of the many references available, we recommend Scripture Studies, Vol. 3, chap. 6, as well as the following WT reprints: 2676, 2901, 4842, 5407, and 5523.
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