Faithful and Wise Servant

The “faithful and wise servant” is a significant figure in Shincheonji’s teachings, directly related to the parable found in Matthew 24:45-47.

Here’s an explanation according to Shincheonji:

• The Master is Jesus. Jesus is the master who goes away and promises to return.
• The Faithful and Wise Servant is a specific individual appointed by Jesus at the time of his Second Coming. Shincheonji identifies Chairman Lee Man-hee (MHL) as this faithful and wise servant. He is also referred to as the “promised pastor” and the “New John”. He is also identified as the “one who overcomes” mentioned in Revelation chapters 2 and 3.
• The “Food at the Proper Time” refers to the revealed word of God, specifically the fulfillment of the prophecies of Revelation. It is likened to “hidden manna” and is considered “true spiritual nourishment” or “food of eternal life”. This “food” enables people to be born again of God’s word.
• Role and Duty: The faithful and wise servant is tasked with distributing this revealed word to the “servants in his household”. This means testifying about what he has seen and heard regarding the physical fulfillment of Revelation. Upon the master’s return, this servant is rewarded by being put in charge of all the master’s possessions.
• The “Household”: The “new household of Jesus” that the faithful and wise servant is put in charge of is identified as Shincheonji, specifically the 12 tribes of New Spiritual Israel (Mount Zion, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony). Shincheonji is seen as the fulfillment of the new heaven and new earth where God and Jesus dwell eternally.
• The “Wicked Servant”: The parable also mentions a “wicked servant” (Matthew 24:48-51). Shincheonji teaches that this wicked servant is not the same person as the faithful and wise servant. Instead, the wicked servants are identified as the seven messengers (stars) of the Tabernacle Temple who failed to repent and accepted false doctrines from the “destroyers”. Their actions lead to judgment and punishment upon the master’s return.
• Significance for Believers: Shincheonji emphasizes that knowing who the faithful and wise servant is and receiving their testimony is crucial for believers today. It is presented as the “only way to become qualified for heaven and eternal life”. Believers are encouraged to seek out this servant to receive the “food at the proper time” and understand the secrets of heaven and their fulfillment.