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Reference for:

FULLY
ACCOMPLISH YOUR
MINISTRY
-- 2 Timothy 4:5

You, though, keep your senses in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelizer, fully accomplish your ministry.
-- 2 Timothy 4:5

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Pioneer Service School
Textbook

From the Library of:

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and speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets
speak, and let the others discern the meaning. 30 But if another
Page 3 Unit 1 (a)
one receives a revelation while sitting there, let the first
Explanations of Pioneer Service School Course speaker keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one at a time,
so that all may learn and all may be encouraged.
OPENING DISCUSSION (Matthew 24:45-47) Who really is the faithful and discreet
(Isaiah 30:20) Though Jehovah will give you bread in the
slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give
form of distress and water in the form of oppression, your
them their food at the proper time? 46 Happy is that slave if
Grand Instructor will no longer hide himself, and you will see
his master on coming finds him doing so! 47 Truly I say to
your Grand Instructor with your own eyes.
you, he will appoint him over all his belongings.
(John 8:28) Jesus then said: After you have lifted up the
(John 17:3) This means everlasting life, their coming to
Son of man, then you will know that I am he and that I do
know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent,
nothing of my own initiative; but just as the Father taught me,
Jesus Christ.
I speak these things.
(1 Peter 2:17) Honor men of all sorts, have love for the
(Isaiah 48:17, 18) This is what Jehovah says, your
whole association of brothers, be in fear of God, honor the
Repurchaser, the Holy One of Israel: I, Jehovah, am your
king.
God, The One teaching you to benefit yourself, The One
guiding you in the way you should walk. 18 If only you would (2 Timothy 3:17) so that the man of God may be fully
pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would competent, completely equipped for every good work.
become just like a river And your righteousness like the
waves of the sea. Page 4 Unit 1 (a)
(2 Timothy 3:14, 15) You, however, continue in the things
(Colossians 1:9, 10) That is also why from the day we heard
that you learned and were persuaded to believe, knowing
of it, we have never stopped praying for you and asking that
from whom you learned them 15 and that from infancy you
you may be filled with the accurate knowledge of his will in
have known the holy writings, which are able to make you
all wisdom and spiritual comprehension, 10 so as to walk
wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
worthily of Jehovah in order to please him fully as you go on
(Deuteronomy 4:10) On the day that you stood before bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the
Jehovah your God in Horeb, Jehovah said to me, accurate knowledge of God;
Congregate the people together to me so that I may let them
(Luke 6:38b) For with the measure that you are measuring
hear my words, in order that they may learn to fear me all the
out, they will measure out to you in return.
days that they are alive on the ground and that they may teach
*** w80 6/15 p. 12 pars. 5-6 Sowing with Gods Kingdom
their sons.
in View ***
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9) Listen, O Israel: Jehovah our God is
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one Jehovah. 5 You must love Jehovah your God with all your A rule oft stated is that we get out of a thing what we put
heart and all your soul and all your strength. 6 These words into it. Jesus indicated the benefit that we would get from
that I am commanding you today must be on your heart, 7 and paying the deserved attention to what he was saying. He did
you must inculcate them in your sons and speak of them this by adding to his admonition on attention the words:
when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road With the measure that you are measuring out, you will have
and when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as a it measured out to you, yes, you will have more added to you.
reminder on your hand, and they must be like a headband on For he that has will have more given to him; but he that does
your forehead. 9 Write them on the doorposts of your house not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.
and on your gates. Mark 4:24, 25.
(1 Corinthians 14:23-31) So if the whole congregation 6
Consequently, if we measure out to Jesus little interest
comes together to one place and they all speak in tongues, but and attention, we cannot expect to get much from him, at
ordinary people or unbelievers come in, will they not say that least from what he is saying for our guidance, for our benefit.
you have lost your minds? 24 But if you are all prophesying But if we show that we do appreciate him as our Teacher and
and an unbeliever or an ordinary person comes in, he will be we deal out to him our fullest measure of attention, then he
reproved and closely examined by them all. 25 The secrets of will respond by giving us a comparative amount of
his heart then become evident, so that he will fall facedown information and enlightenment. In this regard, however, he is
and worship God, declaring: God is really among you. not concerned with just evening up things and balancing
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What is to be done, then, brothers? When you come accounts. Rather, in his generosity and according to his
together, one has a psalm, another has a teaching, another has ability, he will favor us with more than we expected. Thus we
a revelation, another has a tongue, and another has an are enriched and are more able to share with others our own
interpretation. Let all things take place for building up. 27 And abundance, imparting to them the understanding of things.
if someone speaks in a tongue, let it be limited to two or three
at the most, and in turns, and someone must interpret. 28 But if
there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the congregation

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Page 5 Unit 1 (1 Peter 2:2) As newborn infants, form a longing for the
unadulterated milk of the word, so that by means of it you
(Romans 1:11, 12) For I am longing to see you, that I may may grow to salvation,
impart some spiritual gift to you for you to be made firm; (Joshua 1:8) This book of the Law should not depart from
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or, rather, that we may have an interchange of your mouth, and you must read it in an undertone day and
encouragement by one anothers faith, both yours and mine. night, in order to observe carefully all that is written in it; for
(Galatians 6:4) But let each one examine his own actions, then your way will be successful and then you will act wisely.
and then he will have cause for rejoicing in regard to himself (2 Chronicles 15:2) So he went out to meet Asa and said to
alone, and not in comparison with the other person. him: Hear me, O Asa and all Judah and Benjamin! Jehovah
(Proverbs 9:9) Share with a wise person, and he will become is with you as long as you remain with him; and if you search
wiser. Teach someone righteous, and he will add to his for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you
learning. abandon him, he will abandon you.
(2 Timothy 4:5) You, though, keep your senses in all things, (Psalm 19:14) May the words of my mouth and the
endure hardship, do the work of an evangelizer, fully meditation of my heart Be pleasing to you, O Jehovah, my
accomplish your ministry. Rock and my Redeemer.
(Psalm 77:12) And I will meditate on all your activity And
Page 6 Unit 1 (b) ponder over your dealings.
Fortify Your Relationship With Jehovah (1 Timothy 4:13-15) Until I come, continue applying
OPENING DISCUSSION yourself to public reading, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 Do
not neglect the gift in you that was given you through a
(Psalm 63:3) Because your loyal love is better than life, My prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.
own lips will glorify you. 15
Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, so that your
(1 John 4:19) We love, because he first loved us. advancement may be plainly seen by all people.
*** cf chap. 13 pp. 132-133 par. 11 I Love the Father *** it-2 pp. 363-364 Meditation ***
***
The kind of deep, concentrated thinking in which a person
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In many ways, it is helpful to think of the love in our seriously reflects on past experiences, ponders and muses
heart as a living thing. Like a beautiful houseplant, love needs over current matters, or thoughtfully contemplates possible
to be nourished and cared for if it is to grow and to thrive. future events.
Neglected, deprived of nourishment, it weakens and dies.
Jesus did not take his love for Jehovah for granted. He kept it In order to meditate properly, a person needs to be free
strong and thriving throughout his earthly sojourn. Let us see from distractions, alone with his thoughts, so to speak. Isaac,
how. for example, went out walking alone in the early evening to
meditate, possibly about his coming marriage to Rebekah.
Page 7 Unit 1 (b) (Ge 24:63) It was during the solitude of the night watches
QUESTION OUTLINE that the psalmist meditated on the greatness of his Grand
Creator. (Ps 63:6) The meditations of the heart should be
Study and Meditation focused on beneficial things, on Jehovahs splendor and
(Isaiah 50:4, 5) The Sovereign Lord Jehovah has given me activities, on things pleasing to him (Ps 19:14; 49:3; 77:12;
the tongue of those taught, So that I may know how to answer 143:5; Php 4:8), and not on the devices of the wicked.Pr
the tired one with the right word. He awakens me morning by 24:1, 2.
morning; He awakens my ear to listen like the taught ones. By engaging in profitable meditation, one will not be
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The Sovereign Lord Jehovah has opened my ear, And I was inclined to give foolish answers. He will seriously think out
not rebellious. I did not turn in the opposite direction. these matters of importance, and as a result, the answers
(Matthew 22:37) He said to him: You must love Jehovah given will be from the heart and will not be something to
your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul regret later on.Pr 15:28.
and with your whole mind.
When Joshua was appointed as the overseer of the nation
(Deuteronomy 17:18-20) When he takes his seat on the of Israel, he was instructed to make a copy of Jehovahs law,
throne of his kingdom, he must write for himself in a book a and he was told (as rendered in many Bible versions) to
copy of this Law, taken from the one kept by the Levitical meditate thereon day and night. (Jos 1:8; AS, KJ, JB, RS)
priests. 19 It is to remain with him, and he must read from it The Hebrew word here for meditate is haghah. It basically
all the days of his life, so that he may learn to fear Jehovah means utter inarticulate sounds and is rendered moan,
his God and observe all the words of this Law and these growl, coo, and mutter. (Isa 16:7; 31:4; 38:14; 59:3)
regulations by carrying them out. 20 Thus his heart will not Haghah also has the meanings utter in an undertone and
exalt itself above his brothers, and he will not deviate from meditate. (Ps 35:28; Pr 15:28) The New World Translation
the commandment, either to the right or to the left, so that he appropriately renders the Hebrew term haghah, appearing in
may remain a long time over his kingdom, he and his sons in Joshua 1:8, you must in an undertone read. (See also Ps
the midst of Israel. 1:2.) Reading in an undertone would impress more indelibly
on the mind the material on which one was meditating.
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Geseniuss Hebrew and Chaldee Lexicon (translated by purpose. Knowing Jehovah includes having a close bond of
S. Tregelles, 1901, p. 215) says of haghah: Prop[erly] to love with him and with fellow believers. He that does not
speak with oneself, murmuring and in a low voice, as is often love, explains the Bible, has not come to know God.
done by those who are musing.Compare Ps 35:28; 37:30; (1 John 4:8) Thus, knowing God includes being obedient to
71:24; Isa 8:19; 33:18. him. (Read 1 John 2:3-5.) What a great privilege it is to be
counted as one knowing Jehovah! But as in the case of Judas
The apostle Paul told Timothy that he should ponder over
Iscariot, this precious relationship can be lost. Let us work
or be meditating on his conduct, ministry, and teaching. As an
hard to maintain it. Then we will eventually qualify for the
overseer, Timothy had to be unusually careful that he taught
undeserved gift of everlasting life.Matt. 24:13.
sound doctrine and that his way of life was exemplary.1Ti
(1 Samuel 3:7) (Now Samuel had not yet come to know
4:15. Jehovah, and the word of Jehovah had not yet been revealed
Wrong Meditation. After the apostles Peter and John had to him.)
*** w10 10/1 He Continued Growing Up With Jehovah
been arrested by the captain of the temple and the Jewish
***
rulers had threatened them and charged them not to teach
Imitate Their Faith
further on the basis of Jesus name, the apostles returned to
He Continued Growing Up With Jehovah
the other disciples. These prayed to God, referring to Davids
prophetic words, saying: Why did nations become
SAMUEL looked into the faces of his people. The nation
tumultuous and peoples meditate upon empty things? . . .
had gathered at the town of Gilgal, summoned by this faithful
Even so, both Herod and Pontius Pilate with men of nations
man who had served as prophet and judge for decades. It was
and with peoples of Israel were in actuality gathered together
May or June by modern reckoning; the dry season was well
in this city against your holy servant Jesus, whom you
along. The fields in the region were golden with wheat ready
anointed, in order to do what things your hand and counsel
for harvest. Silence fell over the crowd. How could Samuel
had foreordained to occur.Ac 4:1-3, 18, 21, 23-28.
reach their hearts?
The empty things here spoken of are shown by the
The people did not understand how serious their situation
context to be, not the things that people ordinarily seek in
was. They had insisted on having a human king to rule over
life, but things that are devoid of all goodactually thinking,
them. They did not grasp that they had shown gross
speaking, and attempting to fight against Jehovah and his
disrespect to their God, Jehovah, and to his prophet. They
servantsutterly futile things.Ac 4:25.
were, in effect, rejecting Jehovah as their King! How could
King David said of those who hated him and sought his Samuel move them to repentance?
death: Deceptions they keep muttering [form of haghah] all
Samuel spoke. I have grown old and gray, he told the
day long. (Ps 38:12) These meditations were not mere
crowd. His whitening hair added weight to his words. He then
passing thoughts. They were deeply rooted in the heart, their
said: I have walked before you from my youth until this
inclination being toward that wicked pursuit. The writer of
day. (1 Samuel 11:14, 15; 12:2) Though Samuel was old, he
Proverbs says of such men: Despoiling is what their heart
had not forgotten his youth. His memories of those early days
keeps meditating, and trouble is what their own lips keep
were still vivid. The decisions he had made back then, as a
speaking.Pr 24:2.
growing boy, had led him to a life of faith and devotion to his
Jesus said to those hating him: Why are you reasoning God, Jehovah.
these things in your hearts? (Mr 2:8) Of all who would
Again and again, Samuel had to build and maintain faith,
suppress the truth in an unrighteous way, the apostle Paul
although surrounded by people who were faithless and
says: They became empty-headed in their reasonings and
disloyal. Today, it is just as challenging to build faith, for we
their unintelligent heart became darkened. Such meditation
live in a faithless and corrupt world. Let us see what we can
proves fatal to those indulging in it.Ro 1:18, 21.
learn from Samuels example, starting in his early boyhood.
(John 17:3) This means everlasting life, their coming to
know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Ministering Before Jehovah, as a Boy
Jesus Christ.
Samuel had an unusual childhood. Shortly after he was
*** w13 10/15 pp. 27-28 par. 7 Act in Harmony With weaned, at perhaps four years of age or so, he began a life of
Jesus Loving Prayer *** service at the sacred tabernacle of Jehovah at Shiloh, over
7 20 miles [30 km] from his home in Ramah. His parents,
According to Greek-language scholars, the Greek
Elkanah and Hannah, dedicated their boy to Jehovah in a
expression translated taking in knowledge can also be
special form of service, making him a lifelong Nazirite. Did
translated should keep on knowing or should continue
this mean that Samuel was cast off, unloved by his parents?
knowing. The two meanings are complementary, and both
are important. The footnote to John 17:3 in the Reference Far from it! They knew that their son would be cared for
Bible gives the alternative rendering their knowing you. at Shiloh. High Priest Eli no doubt supervised matters, for
Thus, taking in knowledge refers to an ongoing process that Samuel worked closely with him. There were also a number
results in the privileged state of knowing God. Knowing of women who served in some connection with the
the greatest Person in the universe, however, involves much tabernacle, evidently in an organized way.Exodus 38:8.
more than having a mental grasp of Gods qualities and

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Furthermore, Hannah and Elkanah never forgot their spiritual comfort and strength, only to leave disappointed,
beloved firstborn, whose very birth was an answer to a hurt, or humiliated? And how did he feel when he learned that
prayer. Hannah had asked God for a son, promising to Hophni and Phinehas also disregarded Jehovahs laws on
dedicate the boy to God in a life of sacred service. When sexual morality, as they had relations with some of the
visiting each year, Hannah brought Samuel a new sleeveless women who were serving there at the tabernacle? (1 Samuel
coat she had made for his tabernacle service. The little boy 2:22) Perhaps he looked hopefully to Eli to do something
surely cherished those visits. He no doubt thrived on his about it.
parents loving encouragement and guidance as they taught
Eli was in the best position to address the growing
him what a privilege it was to serve Jehovah in that unique
disaster. As high priest, he was responsible for what took
place.
place at the tabernacle. As a father, he had an obligation to
Parents today can learn a lot from Hannah and Elkanah. It correct his sons. After all, they were hurting themselves as
is common for parents to focus all their childrearing efforts well as countless others in the land. However, Eli failed on
on material concerns while ignoring spiritual needs. But both counts, as father and as high priest. He offered his sons
Samuels parents put spiritual matters first, and that had a only a bland, weak scolding. (1 Samuel 2:23-25) But his sons
great bearing on the kind of man their son grew up to be. needed far stronger discipline. They were committing sins
Proverbs 22:6. worthy of death!
We can picture the boy growing bigger and exploring the Matters reached such a point that Jehovah sent a man of
hills around Shiloh. As he gazed down on the town and the God, an unnamed prophet, to Eli with a strong message of
valley that spread out below it on one side, his heart likely judgment. Jehovah told Eli: You keep honoring your sons
swelled with joy and pride when he caught sight of Jehovahs more than me. God thus foretold that Elis wicked sons
tabernacle. That tabernacle was a sacred place indeed. Built would die on the same day and that Elis family would suffer
nearly 400 years earlier under the direction of Moses himself, greatly, even losing its privileged position in the priestly
it was the one center for the pure worship of Jehovah in all class. Did this powerful warning bring about a change in that
the world. family? The record reveals no such change of heart.
1 Samuel 2:273:1.
Young Samuel grew to love the tabernacle. In the account
he later wrote, we read: Samuel was ministering before How did all this corruption affect young Samuel? From
Jehovah, as a boy, having a linen ephod girded on. time to time in this dark account, we find bright rays of light,
(1 Samuel 2:18) That simple sleeveless garment was good news about Samuels growth and progress. Recall that
evidently a mark that Samuel assisted the priests at the at 1 Samuel 2:18, we read that Samuel was faithfully
tabernacle. Although not of the priestly class, Samuel had ministering before Jehovah, as a boy. Even at that early
duties that included opening the doors to the tabernacle age, Samuel centered his life on his service to God. In verse
courtyard in the morning and attending to elderly Eli. As 21 of the same chapter, we read something even more
much as he enjoyed the privileges, though, in time his heartwarming: The boy Samuel continued growing up with
innocent heart became troubled. Something was terribly Jehovah. As he grew, his bond with his heavenly Father got
wrong in Jehovahs house. stronger. Such a close personal relationship with Jehovah is
the surest protection against any form of corruption.
Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption
It would have been easy for Samuel to reason that if the
At a young age, Samuel witnessed genuine wickedness
high priest and his sons can give in to sin, he might as well do
and corruption. Eli had two sons, named Hophni and
whatever he wished. But the corruption of others, including
Phinehas. Samuels account reads: The sons of Eli were
those in positions of authority, is never an excuse to sin.
good-for-nothing men; they did not acknowledge Jehovah.
Today, many Christian youths follow Samuels example and
(1 Samuel 2:12) The two thoughts in this verse go hand in
keep growing up with Jehovaheven when some around
hand. Hophni and Phinehas were good-for-nothing men
them fail to set a good example.
literally sons of worthlessnessbecause they had no regard
for Jehovah. They thought nothing of his righteous standards How did such a course work out for Samuel? We read:
and requirements. From that one failing sprang all their other All the while the boy Samuel was growing bigger and more
sins. likable both from Jehovahs standpoint and from that of
men. (1 Samuel 2:26) So Samuel was well-liked, at least by
Gods Law was specific about the priests duties and the
those whose opinions mattered. Jehovah himself cherished
way they were to offer sacrifices at his tabernacle. For good
this boy for his faithful course. And Samuel surely knew that
reason! Those sacrifices represented Gods provisions to
his God would act against all the badness going on in Shiloh,
forgive sins so that people could be clean in his eyes, eligible
but perhaps he wondered when.
for his blessing and guidance. But Hophni and Phinehas led
their fellow priests to treat the offerings with great disrespect. Speak, for Your Servant Is Listening
Imagine young Samuel watching, wide-eyed, as such One night, such questions met an answer. It was nearing
gross abuses went on uncorrected. How many people did he morning but still dark; the flickering light of the tents great
seeincluding poor, humble, downtrodden folk lamp was still burning. In the stillness, Samuel heard a voice
approaching that sacred tabernacle in hopes of finding some calling his name. He thought it was Eli, who was now very

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old and nearly blind. Samuel got up and went running to suddenly darkened with clouds. The winds battered the wheat
the old man. Can you see the boy in your minds eye, in the fields. The thunder let out its booming, deafening roars.
hurrying barefoot to see what Eli needed? It is touching to And the rain fell. The response? The people were greatly in
note that Samuel treated Eli with respect and kindness. In fear of Jehovah and of Samuel. At last, they saw how
spite of all his sins, Eli was still Jehovahs high priest. seriously they had sinned.1 Samuel 12:18, 19.
1 Samuel 3:2-5.
Not Samuel, but his God, Jehovah, had reached their
Samuel woke Eli, saying: Here I am, for you called me. rebellious hearts. From his youth to his old age, Samuel put
But Eli said that he had not called and sent the boy back to faith in his God. And Jehovah rewarded him. To this day,
bed. Well, the same thing happened again and then again! Jehovah has not changed. He still supports those who imitate
Finally, Eli realized what was going on. It had become rare the faith of Samuel.
for Jehovah to send a vision or a prophetic message to his
[Footnotes]
people, and it is not hard to see why. But Eli knew that
Jehovah was speaking againnow to this boy! Eli told Nazirites were under a vow that included a ban on drinking
Samuel to go back to bed and instructed him on how to alcoholic beverages and on cutting their hair. Most
answer properly. Samuel obeyed. Soon he heard the voice undertook such vows for only a set period of time, but a
calling: Samuel, Samuel! The boy answered: Speak, for few, such as Samson, Samuel, and John the Baptist, were
your servant is listening.1 Samuel 3:1, 5-10. lifelong Nazirites.
Jehovah did, at last, have a servant in Shiloh who was The sanctuary was a rectangular structure, basically a great
listening. That became Samuels life pattern. Is it yours? We tent on a wooden framework. However, it was made of
do not have to wait for a supernatural voice in the night to the finest of materialssealskins, beautifully
speak to us. Today, Gods voice is always there for us in a embroidered cloths, and costly woods plated with silver
sense. It is there in his completed Word, the Bible. The more and gold. The sanctuary sat within a rectangular courtyard
we listen to God and respond, the more our faith will grow. that included an impressive altar for sacrifices. Over time,
So it was with Samuel. other chambers evidently were erected at the sides of the
tabernacle for the use of the priests. Samuel, it seems,
That night in Shiloh was a milestone in Samuels life, for
slept in such a chamber.
then he began to know Jehovah in a special sense, becoming
Gods own prophet and spokesman. At first, the boy was The account provides two examples of disrespect. For one
afraid to deliver Jehovahs message to Eli, for it was a final thing, the Law specified which pieces of a sacrificial
pronouncement that the prophecy against that family was offering were to go to the priests to eat. (Deuteronomy
soon to come true. But Samuel mustered the courageand 18:3) But at the tabernacle, the wicked priests had set up a
Eli humbly acquiesced to the divine judgment. Before long, very different practice. They would have their attendants
everything Jehovah had said was fulfilled. Israel went to war simply jab a great fork into the cauldron where the meat
with the Philistines, and Hophni and Phinehas were killed on was boiling, taking whatever choice morsel came out! For
the same day. Eli himself died upon learning that Jehovahs another thing, when people brought their sacrifices to be
sacred Ark had been captured.1 Samuel 3:10-18; 4:1-18. burned at the altar, the wicked priests would have an
attendant bully the offerer, demanding the raw meat even
However, Samuels reputation as a faithful prophet only
before the fat of the sacrifice was offered to Jehovah.
grew. Jehovah himself proved to be with him, the account
Leviticus 3:3-5; 1 Samuel 2:13-17.
says, adding that Jehovah let none of Samuels prophecies
(Acts 4:13) Now when they saw the outspokenness of Peter
fail.1 Samuel 3:19.
and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and
Samuel Called to Jehovah ordinary men, they were astonished. And they began to
realize that they had been with Jesus.
Did that mean, though, that the Israelites followed
Samuels lead and became spiritual, faithful people? No. In (Hebrews 5:12-14) For although by now you should be
time, they decided that they did not want a mere prophet to teachers, you again need someone to teach you from the
judge them. They wanted to be like other nations and have a beginning the elementary things of the sacred
human king rule over them. At Jehovahs direction, Samuel pronouncements of God, and you have gone back to needing
complied. But he had to convey to Israel the magnitude of milk, not solid food. 13 For everyone who continues to feed on
their sin. They were rejecting, not a mere man, but Jehovah milk is unacquainted with the word of righteousness, for he is
himself! So he summoned the people to Gilgal. a young child. 14 But solid food belongs to mature people, to
those who through use have their powers of discernment
Let us rejoin him in that tense moment of addressing trained to distinguish both right and wrong.
Israel at Gilgal. There, elderly Samuel reminded Israel of his
faithful record of integrity. Then, we read: Samuel called to Page 8 Unit 1 (b)
Jehovah. He asked Jehovah for a thunderstorm.1 Samuel
12:17, 18. (Psalm 25:4) Make me know your ways, O Jehovah; Teach
me your paths.
A thunderstorm? In the dry season? Why, such a thing
was unheard of! If there was even a trace of skepticism or
scoffing among the people, it did not last long. The sky
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4
(Matthew 24:45) Who really is the faithful and discreet Jesus was even more concerned about providing
slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give spiritual food to his followers. He knew that taking in
them their food at the proper time? spiritual food, the truths found in Gods Word, leads to
(Acts 8:26-31) However, Jehovahs angel spoke to Philip, everlasting life. (John 6:26, 27; 17:3) Moved by the same
saying: Get up and go to the south to the road that runs compassion that impelled him to feed bread and fish to the
down from Jerusalem to Gaza. (This is a desert road.) crowds, Jesus spent many hours personally teaching his
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With that he got up and went, and look! an Ethiopian followers. (Mark 6:34) But he was aware that his time on
eunuch, a man who had authority under Candace, queen of earth would be short and that he would return to heaven.
the Ethiopians, and who was in charge of all her treasure. (Matt. 16:21; John 14:12) How would the heavenly Jesus
He had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and he was returning keep his followers on earth well-fed spiritually? He would
and was sitting in his chariot, reading aloud the prophet follow a similar patternhe would feed many through the
Isaiah. 29 So the spirit said to Philip: Go over and approach hands of a few. Who, though, would be the few? Let us see
this chariot. 30 Philip ran alongside and heard him reading how Jesus used a few to feed his many first-century anointed
aloud Isaiah the prophet, and he said: Do you actually know followers. Then, in the next article, we will discuss this
what you are reading? 31 He said: Really, how could I ever question of vital importance to each one of us: How can we
do so unless someone guided me? So he urged Philip to get identify the few through whom Christ feeds us today?
on and sit down with him.

*** w13 7/15 pp. 15-19 Feeding Many Through the Hands JESUS CHOOSES THE FEW
of a Few *** 5
A responsible family head makes arrangements so that
Feeding Many Through the Hands of a Few his family will be cared for in the event of his death.
Similarly, Jesuswho would become Head of the Christian
After breaking the loaves, [Jesus] distributed congregationmade arrangements to ensure that his
them to the disciples, the disciples in turn to followers would be cared for spiritually after his death. (Eph.
the crowds.MATT. 14:19. 1:22) For example, about two years before he died, Jesus
made a weighty decision. He selected the first of the few
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? through whom he would later feed the many. Consider what
What pattern did Jesus follow when feeding happened.
the crowds? 6
After praying all night, Jesus gathered his disciples and
How did Jesus use the apostles and older men from among them chose 12 apostles. (Luke 6:12-16) For the
in Jerusalem? next two years, he was especially close to the 12, teaching
them both by word and by example. He knew that they had
When was it time for Christ to appoint one much to learn; in fact, they continued to be called disciples.
organized channel to dispense spiritual food? (Matt. 11:1; 20:17) He gave them valuable personal counsel
IMAGINE the scene. (Read Matthew 14:14-21.) It is just and extensive training in the ministry. (Matt. 10:1-42; 20:20-
before the Passover of 32 C.E. A crowd of some 5,000 men, 23; Luke 8:1; 9:52-55) He was evidently preparing them for a
besides women and young children, are with Jesus and his key role after his death and return to heaven.
disciples at a deserted place in the vicinity of Bethsaida, a 7
What would be the role of the apostles? As Pentecost
village on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee. 33 C.E. drew near, it was clear that the apostles would serve
2
Upon seeing the crowd, Jesus is moved with pity for the in an office of oversight. (Acts 1:20) What, though, would
people, so he heals the sick among them and teaches them be their primary concern? Following his resurrection, Jesus
many things about Gods Kingdom. When it gets late, the provided a clue in a conversation he had with the apostle
disciples urge Jesus to dismiss the people so that they might Peter. (Read John 21:1, 2, 15-17.) In the presence of some of
go to nearby villages and buy some food for themselves. But the other apostles, Jesus told Peter: Feed my little sheep.
Jesus tells his disciples: You give them something to eat. Jesus thereby indicated that his apostles would be among the
His words must seem puzzling to them, for the provisions at few through whom he would provide spiritual food to the
hand are meager at bestfive loaves and two small fish. many. What a touching and telling indication of how Jesus
feels about his little sheep!
3
Moved by compassion, Jesus performs a miraclethe
only miracle that is recorded by all four Gospel writers. FEEDING THE MANY FROM PENTECOST ONWARD
(Mark 6:35-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-13) Jesus has his 8
Starting at Pentecost 33 C.E., the resurrected Christ used
disciples tell the crowd to recline on the green grass in groups his apostles as the channel through which he fed the rest of
of 50 and of 100. After saying a blessing, he begins breaking his anointed disciples. (Read Acts 2:41, 42.) That channel
the bread and dividing up the fish. Then, rather than giving was clearly recognized by the Jews and proselytes who
the food to the people directly, Jesus distributes it to the became spirit-anointed Christians that day. Unhesitatingly,
disciples, the disciples in turn to the crowds. Miraculously, they continued devoting themselves to the teaching of the
there is more than enough for everyone to eat! Just think: apostles. According to one scholar, the Greek verb rendered
Jesus has fed thousands through the hands of a fewhis continued devoting themselves can mean having a
disciples.
8
13
steadfast and singleminded fidelity to a certain course of Jesus foretold that the Christian congregation would
action. The new believers had a deep hunger for spiritual come under attack. Remember, in his prophetic illustration of
food, and they knew exactly where to get it. With unwavering the wheat and the weeds, Jesus warned that a newly planted
loyalty, they looked to the apostles to explain the words and field of wheat (anointed Christians) would be oversown with
deeds of Jesus and to shed fresh light on the meaning of the weeds (imitation Christians). The groups, he said, would be
scriptures pertaining to him.Acts 2:22-36. allowed to grow side by sideundisturbed until the harvest,
9 which would come at a conclusion of a system of things.
The apostles kept their responsibility to feed Jesus
(Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43) It was not long before Jesus words
sheep clearly in focus. For example, notice how they handled
began to come true.
a sensitive and potentially divisive issue that arose in the
14
newly formed congregation. Ironically, the matter involved The apostasy made some inroads in the first century, but
foodmaterial food. Greek-speaking widows were being Jesus faithful apostles acted as a restraint, holding back the
overlooked in the daily food distribution, but Hebrew- contamination and influence of false teachings. (2 Thess. 2:3,
speaking widows were not being overlooked. How did the 6, 7) However, once the last of the apostles died, the apostasy
apostles resolve this delicate issue? The twelve appointed took root and flourished during a long growing season that
seven qualified brothers to oversee the necessary business, lasted for many centuries. Additionally, during that time, the
the food distribution. The apostlesmost of whom had no weeds became many and the blades of wheat were few. There
doubt shared in distributing food to the crowds whom Jesus was no consistent, organized channel for dispensing spiritual
had miraculously fedsaw that it was more important for food. That would eventually change. But the question is,
them to focus on spiritual feeding. Thus, they devoted When?
themselves to the ministry of the word.Acts 6:1-6.
10
By 49 C.E., the surviving apostles had been joined by
HARVESTTIMEWHO WOULD DO THE FEEDING?
certain other qualified elders. (Read Acts 15:1, 2.) The
apostles and older men in Jerusalem served as a governing 15
As the end of the growing season neared, there were
body. As the Head of the congregation, Christ used this small strong stirrings of interest in Bible truth. Recall that in the
group of qualified men to settle doctrinal issues and to 1870s, a small group of sincere truth-seekers got together
oversee and direct the preaching and teaching of the and formed Bible classes apart from the weedsimitation
Kingdom good news.Acts 15:6-29; 21:17-19; Col. 1:18. Christians within the churches and sects of Christendom.
11 With humble hearts and open minds, those sincere Bible
Did Jehovah bless the arrangement by means of which
Students, as they called themselves, made a careful and
his Son fed the first-century congregations? Most definitely!
prayerful search of the Scriptures.Matt. 11:25.
How can we be sure? The book of Acts gives us this report:
Now as they [the apostle Paul and his traveling companions] 16
The Bible Students diligent study of the Scriptures
traveled on through the cities they would deliver to those yielded rich results. Those loyal men and women exposed
there for observance the decrees that had been decided upon false doctrines and spread spiritual truths, publishing and
by the apostles and older men who were in Jerusalem. distributing Bible literature far and wide. Their work won the
Therefore, indeed, the congregations continued to be made hearts and convinced the minds of many who were hungering
firm in the faith and to increase in number from day to day. and thirsting for spiritual truth. An intriguing question
(Acts 16:4, 5) Notice that those congregations prospered as a therefore arises: Were the Bible Students in the years that led
result of their loyal cooperation with the governing body in up to 1914 the appointed channel through which Christ would
Jerusalem. Is that not proof of Jehovahs blessing on the feed his sheep? No. They were still in the growing season,
arrangement by means of which his Son fed the and the arrangement for a channel to provide spiritual food
congregations? Let us remember that spiritual prosperity is was still taking shape. The time had not yet come for the
possible only with Jehovahs rich blessing.Prov. 10:22; weedlike imitation Christians to be separated from the true
1 Cor. 3:6, 7. Christian wheat.
12
Thus far we have seen that Jesus followed a pattern 17
As we learned in the preceding article, the harvest
when feeding his followers: He fed many through the hands season began in 1914. In that year, a number of important
of a few. The channel he used for spiritual feeding was developments began to unfold. Jesus was enthroned as King,
clearly recognizable. After all, the apostlesthe original and the last days began. (Rev. 11:15) From 1914 to the early
members of the governing bodycould provide visible proof part of 1919, Jesus accompanied his Father to the spiritual
of heavenly backing. Through the hands of the apostles temple to do a much-needed inspection and cleansing work.
many signs and portents continued to occur among the (Mal. 3:1-4) Then, starting in 1919, it was time to begin
people, states Acts 5:12. Hence, there was no reason for gathering the wheat. Was it finally the time for Christ to
those who became Christians to wonder, Who really are the appoint one organized channel to dispense spiritual food?
ones through whom Christ is feeding his sheep? But by the Yes, indeed!
end of the first century, the situation changed. 18
In his prophecy about the time of the end, Jesus foretold
WHEN THE WEEDS WERE MANY AND THE that he would appoint a channel to give out spiritual food at
BLADES OF WHEAT FEW the proper time. (Matt. 24:45-47) Which channel would he
use? True to the pattern he set in the first century, Jesus

9
would once again feed many through the hands of a few. But inhabit it? Learning the answer to that question can help you to draw
as the last days were just getting under way, the critical closer to the God whose invisible qualities are clearly seen in the
question was, Who will be the few? That and other questions world around us.
about Jesus prophecy will be discussed in the next artic
Showing Our Love for Jehovah
(Matthew 4:4) But he answered: It is written: Man must
live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from
(Philippians 1:9, 10) And this is what I continue praying,
Jehovahs mouth.
that your love may abound still more and more with accurate
(Hebrews 12:2) as we look intently at the Chief Agent and knowledge and full discernment; 10 that you may make sure
Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. For the joy that was set before of the more important things, so that you may be flawless and
him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat not stumbling others up to the day of Christ;
down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(1 John 2:5) But whoever does observe his word, in this
(Romans 1:20) For his invisible qualities are clearly seen person the love of God has truly been made perfect. By this
from the worlds creation onward, because they are perceived we know that we are in union with him.
by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship, so
(1 John 5:3) For this is what the love of God means, that we
that they are inexcusable.
observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are
*** w13 8/1 p. 11 His Invisible Qualities Are Clearly Seen ***
DRAW CLOSE TO GOD not burdensome,
His Invisible Qualities Are Clearly Seen (Romans 10:10) For with the heart one exercises faith for
righteousness, but with the mouth one makes public
Do you believe in God? If so, can you point to proof of his declaration for salvation.
existence? The truth is that we are surrounded by evidence of a (2 Corinthians 7:1) Therefore, since we have these promises,
Creator who is wise, powerful, and loving. What is this evidence, beloved ones, let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement of
and how compelling is it? For the answer, consider the words of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
apostle Paul recorded in his letter to Christians in Rome.
(Ephesians 4:15) But speaking the truth, let us by love grow
Paul said: His [Gods] invisible qualities are clearly seen from up in all things into him who is the head, Christ.
the worlds creation onward, because they are perceived by the
things made, even his eternal power and Godship, so that they are Page 9 Unit 1 (b)
inexcusable. (Romans 1:20) The Creator left his imprint on his
handiwork, as Paul pointed out. Let us take a closer look at Pauls
words. (1 Timothy 1:5) Really, the objective of this instruction is
love out of a clean heart and out of a good conscience and out
Gods qualities could be seen from the worlds creation of faith without hypocrisy.
onward, notes Paul. In this context the Greek word rendered
world does not refer to the planet Earth. Rather, it refers to (Hebrews 10:23-25) Let us hold firmly the public declaration
humankind. Hence, Paul is saying that from the moment humans of our hope without wavering, for the one who promised is
were created, they could see evidence of the Creators qualities in faithful. 24 And let us consider one another so as to incite to
the things he made. love and fine works, 25 not forsaking our meeting together, as
some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all
That evidence is all around us. It is not hidden in nature but is the more so as you see the day drawing near.
clearly seen. From the largest to the smallest, creation clearly
reveals not only that there is a Creator but also that he has wonderful (1 John 3:17, 18) But whoever has the material possessions
qualities. Does not the intelligent design so obvious in nature reveal of this world and sees his brother in need and yet refuses to
to us Gods wisdom? Do not the starry heavens and the pounding show him compassion, in what way does the love of God
surf reveal his power? Does not the variety of foods that delight our remain in him? 18 Little children, we should love, not in word
palate and the beauty of sunrises and sunsets reveal his love for or with the tongue, but in deed and truth.
mankind?Psalm 104:24; Isaiah 40:26.
(John 17:6-8) I have made your name manifest to the men
How plain is the evidence? It is so clear that those who do not whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and
see it and who thus refuse to believe in God are inexcusable. One you gave them to me, and they have observed your word.
scholar illustrates it this way: Imagine a driver who ignores a sign 7
Now they have come to know that all the things you gave
that says DetourTurn Left. A police officer stops him and starts me are from you; 8 because I have given them the sayings that
writing him a ticket. The driver tries to argue that he did not see the
you gave me, and they have accepted them and have certainly
sign. But his words carry little weight because the sign is in plain
view and there is nothing wrong with the drivers vision. Besides, as
come to know that I came as your representative, and they
a driver, the responsibility for seeing and heeding such signs is his. have believed that you sent me.
So it is with the evidence of God in nature. That sign is in plain (John 17:26) I have made your name known to them and will
view. As reasoning creatures, we are capable of seeing it. There is no make it known, so that the love with which you loved me
excuse for ignoring it. may be in them and I in union with them.
Indeed, the book of creation reveals much about our Creator. (Revelation 2:1-5) To the angel of the congregation in Eph
But there is another book that reveals far more about himthe esus write: These are the things that he says who holds the
Bible. Through its pages we can learn the answer to this vital seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven
question: What is Gods purpose for our earth and the humans who golden lampstands: 2 I know your deeds, and your labor and
10
endurance, and that you cannot tolerate bad men, and that you w14 2/15 p. 25 pars. 18-21
put to the test those who say they are apostles, but they are
not, and you found them to be liars. 3 You are also showing 18. What might we ask ourselves regarding our
endurance, and you have persevered for the sake of my name communication with Jehovah?
and have not grown weary. 4 Nevertheless, I hold this against
you, that you have left the love you had at first. 5 Therefore
remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the 18 Friendship deepens when good communication
deeds you did at first. If you do not, I will come to you, and I exists. Social networking and text messaging are very
will remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. popular in this age of Internet and telecommunications
technology. By comparison, though, how do we
Draw Close to God Through Prayer individually rate our personal communication with our
(Psalm 145:18, 19) Jehovah is near to all those calling on best Friend, Jehovah? True, he is the Hearer of
him, To all who call on him in truth. 19 He satisfies the desire prayer. (Ps. 65:2) But how often do we take the
of those who fear him; He hears their cry for help, and he initiative to speak to him?
rescues them.
(Philippians 4:6, 7) Do not be anxious over anything, but in 19. We have access to what help if we find it difficult to
everything by prayer and supplication along with open our hearts to our heavenly Father?
thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; 7 and
the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard 19 Some servants of God do not find it easy to open
your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus. their hearts and express their deep emotions. Yet, that is
(Mark 14:36) And he said: Abba, Father, all things are what Jehovah wants us to do when we pray. (Ps.
possible for you; remove this cup from me. Yet, not what I 119:145; Lam. 3:41) Even if we find such heartfelt
want, but what you want. expressions difficult to put into words, we are not
without help. Paul wrote to Christians in Rome: The
*** cf chap. 13 p. 134 pars. 14-15 I Love the Father *** problem is that we do not know what we should pray
14
for as we need to, but the spirit itself pleads for us with
Jesus also kept his love for Jehovah strong by praying unuttered groanings. But the one who searches the
regularly. Although he was a friendly, gregarious man, it is hearts knows what the meaning of the spirit is, because
striking to note that he valued solitude. For example, Luke it is pleading in harmony with God for the holy ones.
5:16 says: He continued in retirement in the deserts and (Rom. 8:26, 27) Our meditating on the words recorded
praying. Similarly, Matthew 14:23 states: Eventually, in such Bible books as Job, Psalms, and Proverbs will
having sent the crowds away, he went up into the mountain help us to express our inmost feelings to Jehovah.
by himself to pray. Though it became late, he was there
alone. Jesus sought solitude on these and other occasions,
not because he was a recluse or hated the company of others, 20, 21. What comfort do Pauls words at Philippians
but because he wanted to be alone with Jehovah, to speak 4:6, 7 provide?
freely with his Father in prayer.
15 20 When distressing situations confront us, let us heed
When he prayed, Jesus would at times use the
Pauls inspired advice to the Philippians: Do not be
expression Abba, Father. (Mark 14:36) In Jesus day,
anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and
Abba was an intimate word for father, a family word. It
supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions
was often among the first words that a child would learn. Yet,
be made known to God. Such open communication
it was respectful. While the word revealed the intimacy of the
with our best Friend will surely bring us comfort and
Son speaking to his beloved Father, it also conveyed
consolation, for Paul adds: The peace of God that
profound respect for Jehovahs fatherly authority. We find
surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and
that combination of intimacy and respect throughout Jesus
your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus. (Phil.
recorded prayers. For example, in John chapter 17, the
4:6, 7) May we always cherish the incomparable
apostle John recorded the long and heartfelt prayer that Jesus
peace of God that really does guard our hearts and
offered on His final night. It is truly moving for us to study
mental powers.
that prayer and vital that we imitate itnot by repeating
Jesus words, of course, but by finding ways to speak from
the heart to our heavenly Father as often as we can. Doing so How does prayer strengthen our friendship with
will keep our love for him alive and strong. God? (See paragraph 21)
(James 4:8) Draw close to God, and he will draw close to
you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, 21 Prayer helps us to cultivate a friendship with
you indecisive ones Jehovah. Therefore, let us pray constantly. (1 Thess.
5:17) May this study strengthen our precious
relationship with God and our determination to comply
with his righteous requirements. And let us take time to
meditate on the blessings we enjoy because Jehovah
truly is our Father, our God, and our Friend.
11
life even now in the twilight of this dying system of things. A
*** w02 10/15 pp. 17-18 par. 16 Jehovah Cares for You watchful course will also ensure that when your Master
*** comes to bring this system to its end, he will find you alert
16
Are you convinced of Jehovahs saving power? Are you and active, doing his Fathers will. How delighted Jehovah
aware of his angelic protection? Have you personally tasted will be to reward you for your faithful course!Rev. 16:15.
and seen that Jehovah is good? When was the last time that
you were particularly conscious that Jehovah had been good *** cf chap. 7 p. 72 pars. 15-16 Consider Closely the One
to you? Try to recall. Was it at that last home you visited in Who Has Endured ***
the ministry, just as you were feeling you could do no more? 15
Jesus, although the perfect Son of God, did not rely on
Perhaps you then had a wonderful conversation with the his own strength to endure. Instead, he turned to his heavenly
householder. Did you remember to thank Jehovah for having Father and prayed for help from above. The apostle Paul
given you the extra strength you needed and for blessing you? wrote: Christ offered up supplications and also petitions to
(2 Corinthians 4:7) On the other hand, you may have trouble the One who was able to save him out of death, with strong
recalling some particular act of goodness that Jehovah outcries and tears. (Hebrews 5:7) Notice that Jesus offered
performed in your behalf. You may have to think back a up not just petitions but also supplications. The term
week, a month, a year, or more. If this is the case, why not supplication refers to an especially heartfelt and earnest
make a conscious effort to draw closer to Jehovah and try to entreatyyes, a begging for help. The use of the plural
see how he guides and directs you? The apostle Peter supplications indicates that Jesus implored Jehovah more
admonished Christians: Humble yourselves . . . under the than once. Indeed, in the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed
mighty hand of God . . . while you throw all your anxiety repeatedly and fervently.Matthew 26:36-44.
upon him, because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6, 7) Indeed,
16
you will be amazed at how much he cares for you!Psalm Jesus had complete confidence that Jehovah would
73:28. Psalm 73:28. answer his supplications, for he knew that his Father is the
Hearer of prayer. (Psalm 65:2) During his prehuman
existence, the firstborn Son had seen how his Father responds
Page 10 Unit 1 (b)
to the prayers of loyal worshippers. For example, the Son was
an eyewitness in the heavens when Jehovah dispatched an
(Matthew 4:7) Jesus said to him: Again it is written: You
angel to answer the heartfelt prayer of the prophet Daniel
must not put Jehovah your God to the test.
even before Daniel had finished praying. (Daniel 9:20, 21)
(Matthew 4:10) Then Jesus said to him: Go away, Satan! How, then, could the Father fail to answer when his only-begotten
For it is written: It is Jehovah your God you must worship, Son poured out his heart with strong outcries and tears? Jehovah
and it is to him alone you must render sacred service. did respond to the entreaties of his Son and sent an angel to
strengthen him to bear up under the ordeal.Luke 22:43.
*** w12 2/15 p. 7 pars. 16-17 Imitate Jesus Example of (John 11:41, 42) So they took the stone away. Then Jesus
Watchfulness *** raised his eyes heavenward and said: Father, I thank you that
16 you have heard me. 42 True, I knew that you always hear me;
When Jesus was under trial, he resolutely refused to but I spoke on account of the crowd standing around, so that
lean on his own understanding. Think of it! The wisest man they may believe that you sent me.
ever to live on this earth chose not to draw on his own
wisdom for answers. For instance, when Satan tempted him, (Hebrews 11:6) Moreover, without faith it is impossible to
Jesus repeatedly answered with the phrase: It is written. please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe
(Matt. 4:4, 7, 10) He relied on his Fathers wisdom to ward that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly
off temptation, showing the humility that Satan despises and seeking him.
utterly lacks. Do we do the same? A family head who imitates Continue Fortifying Your Relationship With Jehovah
Jesus watchfulness lets Gods Word guide him, especially in (Romans 11:33-36) O the depth of Gods riches and wisdom
trialsome times. Around the world, thousands of family heads and knowledge! How unsearchable his judgments are and
are doing just that. They are steadfastly putting Gods beyond tracing out his ways are! 34 For who has come to
Kingdom and pure worship first in life, even ahead of know Jehovahs mind, or who has become his adviser? 35 Or,
material concerns. Thereby, they take the best care of their who has first given to him, so that it must be repaid to him?
families. Jehovah responds by blessing their efforts to 36
Because from him and by him and for him are all things. To
provide for material needs, just as his Word promises.Matt. him be the glory forever. Amen.
6:33.
17
Without question, Jesus set the best possible example of Page 11 Unit 2 (a)
watchfulness. His example is practical, beneficial, and even Using the New World Translation-Part 1
lifesaving. Remember, Satan is eager to lull you into spiritual OPENING DISCUSSION
sleepa state of weak faith, lackadaisical worship, and
compromised integrity. (1 Thess. 5:6) Do not let him (2 Timothy 2:15) Do your utmost to present yourself
succeed! Remain watchful as Jesus didwatchful in your approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of,
handling the word of the truth aright.
prayers, in your ministry, and in dealing with trials. By
following that course, you will enjoy a rich, happy, fulfilling

12
19
QUESTION OUTLINE Releasing the New World Translation in Its Parts. It
was on Wednesday, August 2, 1950, on the fourth day of their
Superiority of the Translation international assembly at Yankee Stadium, New York, that a
*** jv chap. 27 p. 608 Printing and Distributing Gods totally surprised audience of 82,075 of Jehovahs Witnesses
Own Sacred Word *** heartily accepted the release of the New World Translation of
the Christian Greek Scriptures. Encouraged by the initial
Was there really need for another translation? Already at enthusiastic reception, as well as by later expressions of
that time, the complete Bible had been published in 190 appreciation for the translations merits, the Committee next
languages, and at least part of it had been translated into 928 undertook the extensive work of translating the Hebrew
additional languages and dialects. Jehovahs Witnesses have Scriptures. This appeared in five additional volumes, released
at various times used most of these translations. But the fact successively from 1953 to 1960. The set of six volumes
is that most of these were made by clergymen and formed a library of the entire Bible in modern English. Each
missionaries of Christendoms religious sects, and to varying volume also contained valuable aids to Bible study. A vast
degrees their translations were influenced by the pagan storehouse of Scriptural information was thus made available
philosophies and unscriptural traditions that their religious to the modern-day student of the Bible. Diligent effort had
systems had inherited from the past as well as by the bias of been made to draw on every reliable source of textual
higher criticism. Furthermore, older and more reliable Bible information so that the New World Translation would express
manuscripts were becoming available. The Greek language of clearly and accurately the powerful message of the original
the first century was becoming more clearly understood as a inspired Scriptures.
result of archaeological discoveries. Also, the languages into
which translations are made undergo changes over the years. *** jv chap. 27 p. 609 Printing and Distributing Gods
Own Sacred Word ***
*** jv chap. 27 p. 608 Printing and Distributing Gods
Own Sacred Word *** One of the outstanding features of this translation is its
restoration of the divine name, the personal name of God,
Was there really need for another translation? Already at Jehovah, 237 times in the Christian Greek Scriptures. This
that time, the complete Bible had been published in 190 was not the first translation to restore the name. But it may
languages, and at least part of it had been translated into 928 have been the first to do it consistently in the main text from
additional languages and dialects. Jehovahs Witnesses have Matthew through Revelation. An extensive discussion of this
at various times used most of these translations. But the fact matter in the foreword showed the sound basis for what was
is that most of these were made by clergymen and done.
missionaries of Christendoms religious sects, and to varying
degrees their translations were influenced by the pagan Thereafter, the Hebrew Scriptures were translated into
philosophies and unscriptural traditions that their religious English and were released progressively, in five separate
systems had inherited from the past as well as by the bias of volumes, beginning in 1953. As had been done with the
higher criticism. Furthermore, older and more reliable Bible Christian Greek Scriptures, care was exercised to convey as
manuscripts were becoming available. The Greek language of literally as possible what was in the original-language text.
the first century was becoming more clearly understood as a Special attention was given to making the renderings
result of archaeological discoveries. Also, the languages into uniform, conveying accurately the action or state expressed in
which translations are made undergo changes over the years. the verbs, and using simple language that would be readily
understood by modern-day readers. Wherever the
Tetragrammaton appeared in the Hebrew text, it was
*** si p. 324 pars. 18-19 Study Number 7The Bible in appropriately rendered as the personal name of God, instead
Modern Times *** of being replaced by some other term as had become common
18
On September 3, 1949, at the Brooklyn headquarters of in many other translations. Appendix articles and footnotes in
the Society, the president announced to the Board of these volumes enabled careful students to examine the basis
Directors the existence of the New World Bible Translation for the renderings used.
Committee and that it had completed a modern translation of
the Christian Greek Scriptures. The committees document *** nwt p. 39 Foreword ***
was read, by which the committee assigned the possession, FOREWORD
control, and publication of the translation manuscript to the
Society, in recognition of the Societys unsectarian work of The Holy Bible is Gods written communication to all of
promoting Bible education throughout the earth. Portions of us. We must study it to get to know its Author. (John 17:3;
the manuscript were also read, as examples of the nature and 2 Timothy 3:16) Within its pages, Jehovah God reveals his
quality of the translation. The directors were unanimous in purpose for humans and for their earthly home.Genesis
accepting the gift of the translation, and arrangements were 3:15; Revelation 21:3, 4.
made for its immediate printing. Typesetting began on No other book has such an impact on peoples lives. The
September 29, 1949, and by early summer of 1950, tens of Bible inspires us to reflect Jehovahs qualities of love, mercy,
thousands of copies were completed in bound form. and compassion. It gives hope, helping people to endure even
the worst suffering. And it continues to expose the elements

13
of this world that are out of harmony with the perfect will of closest to what was expressed in the original languages.
God.Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 4:12; 1 John 2:15-17. However, that is not always the case. Consider a few of the
reasons:
Originally composed in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, the
Bible has been translated, in whole or in part, into about No two languages are exactly alike in grammar, vocabulary,
2,600 languages. It is by far the most widely translated and and sentence structure. A professor of Hebrew,
distributed book in history. We should expect nothing less. S. R. Driver, wrote that languages differ not only in
Bible prophecy states: This good news of the Kingdom [the grammar and roots, but also . . . in the manner in which
key message contained in the Bible] will be preached in all ideas are built up into a sentence. Different languages
the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then require quite different thought patterns. Consequently,
the end will come.Matthew 24:14. continues Professor Driver, the forms taken by the
sentence in different languages are not the same.
Recognizing the importance of the Bibles message, we
have undertaken the revision of this text with a profound No modern language exactly mirrors the vocabulary and
respect for the content of the Bible. We feel the full weight of grammar of Biblical Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, so a
our responsibility to convey its message accurately. This word-for-word translation of the Bible could be unclear or
revised edition has built on the fine foundation laid in at times could even convey the wrong meaning.
previous editions of the New World Translation of the Holy
The meaning of a word or an expression may vary
Scriptures, a Bible that was first released more than 60 years
depending on the context in which it is used.
ago. However, the English language has changed during the
past half century. Such change prompted current members of A translator may be able to mirror the literal rendering of
the New World Bible Translation Committee to initiate this the original language in some passages, but this must be done
comprehensive revision. Our goal has been to produce a very carefully.
translation that is not only faithful to the original texts but
Here are some examples of how word-for-word
also clear and easy to read. The Appendix articles Principles
translation can be misunderstood:
of Bible Translation, Features of This Revision, and How
the Bible Came to Us discuss some of the linguistic The Scriptures use the expressions sleep and fall asleep
refinements that were made in this edition. to refer both to physical sleep and to the sleep of death.
(Matthew 28:13; Acts 7:60) When these expressions are
Those who love Jehovah God and worship him desire an
used in contexts that refer to death, Bible translators can
accurate, understandable translation of Gods Word.
use such wording as fall asleep in death, which helps
(1 Timothy 2:4) To that end, we have made this revision
the modern reader avoid confusion.1 Corinthians 7:39;
available in English, with the intention of translating it into as
1 Thessalonians 4:13; 2 Peter 3:4.
many languages as possible. It is our hope and prayer that
you, dear reader, will find this edition of the Holy Scriptures The apostle Paul used an expression found at Ephesians
beneficial as you endeavor to seek God . . . and really find 4:14 that can be literally translated in the playing of dice
him.Acts 17:27. New World Bible Translation Committee of men. This ancient idiom alludes to the practice of
August 2013 cheating others when using dice. In most languages, a
literal rendering of this allusion makes little sense.
Page 12 Translating this expression as the trickery of men is a
clearer way to convey the meaning.
APPENDIX A
A1 Principles of Bible Translation At Romans 12:11, a Greek expression is used that literally
means to the spirit boiling. This wording does not
*** nwt pp. 1718-1721 A1 Principles of Bible Translation convey the intended meaning in English, so it is rendered
*** aglow with the spirit in this translation.
A1 During his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus used an
Principles of Bible Translation expression that is often translated Blessed are the poor in
spirit. (Matthew 5:3, King James Version) But in many
The Bible was originally written in ancient languages, a literal rendering of this expression is
Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Today it is obscure. In some cases, a strictly literal translation could
available in whole or in part in about 2,600 imply that the poor in spirit are mentally unbalanced or
languages. The vast majority of people who lacking in vitality and determination. However, Jesus was
read the Bible do not understand the original here teaching people that their happiness depended, not
languages and therefore must rely on a on satisfying their physical needs, but on recognizing
translation. What principles should guide how their need for Gods guidance. (Luke 6:20) Thus, such
the Bible is translated, and how did these renderings as those conscious of their spiritual need or
govern the rendering of the New World those who know their need for God convey more
Translation of the Holy Scriptures? accurately the meaning of the original expression.
Matthew 5:3; The New Testament in Modern English.
Some might conclude that a strict, word-for-word,
interlinear-style translation would enable the reader to get
14
In many contexts, the Hebrew word translated jealousy 17:26 reads: I made you known to them, and at John 17:6,
corresponds to the common meaning of the English word, I have revealed you to those whom you gave me. However,
namely, to feel anger over the apparent unfaithfulness of a a faithful rendering of Jesus prayer reads: I have made your
close associate or to envy others for their possessions. name known to them, and I have made your name manifest
(Proverbs 6:34; Isaiah 11:13) However, the same Hebrew to the men whom you gave me.
word also has a positive connotation. For example, it may
As stated in the foreword to the original English edition of
be used of the zeal, or protective ardor, that Jehovah
the New World Translation: We offer no paraphrase of the
shows for his servants or of his requiring exclusive
Scriptures. Our endeavor all through has been to give as
devotion. (Exodus 34:14; 2 Kings 19:31; Ezekiel 5:13;
literal a translation as possible, where the modern English
Zechariah 8:2) It may also be used of the zeal that his
idiom allows and where a literal rendition does not for any
faithful servants have for God and his worship or of their
clumsiness hide the thought. Thus, the New World Bible
tolerating no rivalry toward him.Psalm 69:9; 119:139;
Translation Committee has endeavored to strike a balance
Numbers 25:11.
between using words and phrasing that mirror the original
The Hebrew expression that usually refers to the human and, at the same time, avoiding wording that reads
hand has a wide variety of meanings. Depending on the awkwardly or hides the intended thought. As a result, the
context, this word may be rendered authority, Bible can be read with ease and the reader can have full
generosity, or power. (2 Samuel 8:3; 1 Kings 10:13; confidence that its inspired message has been transmitted
Proverbs 18:21) In fact, this particular word is translated faithfully.1 Thessalonians 2:13.
over 40 different ways in the English edition of the New
[Box on pages 1742, 1743]
World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.
A reliable translation must:
In view of these factors, Bible translation involves more
than simply rendering an original-language word with the Sanctify Gods name by restoring it to its rightful place in
same term each time it occurs. A translator must use good the Scriptures.Matthew 6:9.
judgment in order to select words in the target language that
Accurately convey the original message that was inspired by
best represent the ideas of the original-language text. In
God.2 Timothy 3:16.
addition, there is a need to structure the sentences in a way
that conforms to the rules of grammar of the target language, Translate expressions literally when the wording and
making the text easy to read. structure of the target language allow for such renderings
of the original-language text.
At the same time, extremes in rewording the text must be
avoided. A translator who liberally paraphrases the Bible Communicate the correct sense of a word or a phrase when
according to how he interprets the overall idea could distort a literal rendering would distort or obscure the meaning.
the meaning of the text. How so? The translator may
erroneously insert his opinion of what the original text means Use natural, easy-to-understand language that encourages
or may omit important details contained in the original text. reading.Nehemiah 8:8, 12.
So while paraphrases of the Bible may be easy to read, their [Picture on page 1719]
very freeness at times may prevent the reader from getting the MATTHEW 5:3
true message of the text. Literal English: the poor in spirit
Doctrinal bias can easily color a translators work. For Idea: those conscious of their spiritual need
example, Matthew 7:13 says: Spacious is the road leading [Picture on page 1720]
off into destruction. Some translators, perhaps affected by The Hebrew word yadh is usually rendered hand, but
doctrinal bias, have used the term hell rather than what the depending on the context, this word may be rendered
Greek term really means, namely, destruction. authority, generosity, power, and many other ways
A Bible translator must also consider that the Bible was
written using the common, everyday language of average A2 Features of This Revision
people, such as farmers, shepherds, and fishermen. *** nwt pp. 1722-1725 A2 Features of This Revision ***
(Nehemiah 8:8, 12; Acts 4:13) Therefore, a good translation A2
of the Bible makes the message it contains understandable to Features of This Revision
sincere people, regardless of their background. Clear,
common, readily understood expressions are preferred over The New World Translation of the Christian Greek
terms that are rarely used by the average person. Scriptures was released in English in 1950, and the complete
New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures was published
Quite a number of Bible translators have taken the in 1961. Since then, tens of millions of readers in well over
unjustifiable liberty of omitting Gods name, Jehovah, from 100 languages have benefited from this accurate yet readable
modern translations even though that name is found in rendering of the Holy Scriptures from the original languages.
ancient Bible manuscripts. (See Appendix A4.) Many
translations replace the name with a title, such as Lord, and Over the past half century, however, languages have
some even obscure the fact that God has a name. For changed. The current New World Bible Translation
example, in some translations, Jesus prayer recorded at John Committee recognized the need to respond to those changes

15
in order to touch the heart of todays reader. For this reason, a desires and appetite of a person or, in some cases, (5)
number of style and vocabulary changes have been made in even to dead individuals. However, since such use of
this revision, with the following objectives in mind: the word soul is not common in English, the
decision was made to render these original-language
Use of modern, understandable language. For example,
words according to their intended meaning, usually
the expression long-suffering can be misunderstood to
with a footnote that reads Or soul. (See, for
mean someone who suffers for a long time. However,
example, Genesis 1:20; 2:7; Leviticus 19:28; Psalm
the intended idea is that of deliberate restraint, which is
3:2; Proverbs 16:26; Matthew 6:25.) However, in
better expressed by the term patience. (Galatians 5:22)
some poetic or well-known contexts, the word soul
The now obsolete meaning of dumb was replaced with
was retained in the main text, along with a footnote
speechless. (Matthew 9:32, 33) The term harlot was
referring to the Glossary or showing another possible
changed to prostitute. (Genesis 38:15) In this revision,
rendering.Deuteronomy 6:5; Psalm 131:2; Proverbs
fornication is usually rendered as sexual immorality;
2:10; Matthew 22:37.
loose conduct as brazen conduct; and revelries as
wild parties. (Galatians 5:19-21) The expression time Similarly, the word kidney was retained when it
indefinite was replaced with such terms as forever, refers to the literal organ. However, when it is used
lasting, everlasting, or long ago, to convey the figuratively in such verses as Psalm 7:9 and 26:2 and
intended meaning in each context.Genesis 3:22; Revelation 2:23, the intended idea of deepest
Exodus 31:16; Psalm 90:2; Ecclesiastes 1:4; Micah 5:2. emotions or innermost thoughts is conveyed in the
main text, and the literal idea is given in a footnote.
The term seed in ancient Hebrew and Greek could
refer to plant seed as well as to human offspring, or Like its Hebrew and Greek equivalents, the English
descendants, or to semen. Because it is no longer expression heart has both a literal and a figurative
common in English to use the term seed when meaning, so it was usually retained in the main text.
referring to humans, it was replaced with expressions However, in a few contexts where the sense was not
that convey the intended idea according to the context. clear, a more explicit rendering was used. For
(Genesis 1:11; 22:17; 48:4; Matthew 22:24; John example, in the book of Proverbs, in want of heart
8:37) In most cases, the term offspring is now used now reads lacking good sense, and the literal idea is
when referring to the Edenic promise, found at given in a footnote. Other expressions, for instance,
Genesis 3:15. fat, flesh, and horn, were handled similarly,
according to the context. (Genesis 45:18; Ecclesiastes
The English verb impale was used in previous
5:6; Job 16:15) Some of these expressions are
versions of this Bible in connection with the execution
discussed in the Glossary of Bible Terms.
of Jesus. While this term could refer to the way that
Jesus was nailed to the torture stake, it is more often Enhanced readability. In previous editions of the English
used in reference to the ancient method of execution New World Translation, auxiliary expressions were used
by running a sharp stake through the body and fixing to indicate whether the Hebrew verb is in the imperfect or
the victim on it. Since Jesus was not impaled with the the perfect state. For example, the continuous action often
torture stake, this revision uses such expressions as expressed by imperfect verbs was indicated by means of
executed on a stake and nailed to the stake with the expressions proceeded to, went on to, came to
regard to the manner in which Jesus was fastened to be, and so forth. The emphasis often conveyed by the
the torture stake.Matthew 20:19; 27:31, 35. Hebrew perfect verb was denoted by the added
expressions certainly, must, actually, and similar
Biblical expressions clarified. Some terms used in
ones. As a result, these terms were used thousands of
previous editions of the English New World Translation
times in the text. In this revision, auxiliary terms were
often needed to be explained in order to be properly
retained in certain contexts by using such expressions as
understood. For example, the Hebrew term Sheol and
kept, keep on, and used to when there was a valid
the Greek term Hades are used in the Bible to refer to
reason to express continuous action. (Genesis 3:9; 34:1;
the common grave of mankind. Those terms are unknown
Proverbs 2:4) However, they were omitted to enhance
to many, and Hades has a dual meaning as a result of its
readability when the auxiliary expressions were not
usage in Greek mythology. Therefore, both terms were
critical for conveying the original meaning.
replaced with what was meant by the Bible writers, the
Grave. The terms Sheol and Hades are now given in Conveying the correct idea of words involving gender.
footnotes.Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:27. Hebrew and Greek nouns indicate male or female gender,
and in Greek, also neuter. At times, though, reflecting the
In past editions, the Hebrew word nephesh and the
gender of the original-language term may obscure the
Greek word psykhe were consistently rendered
intended meaning. In both Hebrew and Greek, plural
soul. In view of the many misconceptions regarding
nouns are generally masculine, not only when referring
the meaning of the word soul, this approach helped
exclusively to males but also when referring to both males
the reader to see how the inspired Bible writers used
and females. For example, though the expression the
these original-language terms. Depending on the
sons of Israel may refer to the 12 sons of Jacob, it more
context, those words may refer (1) to a person, (2) to
often refers to the entire nation of Israel, both men and
the life of a person, (3) to living creatures, (4) to the
16
women. (Genesis 46:5; Exodus 35:29) So in the revision, Judah and of Israel, and Main Events of Jesus Earthly
this phrase was often rendered Israelites to show that it Life. Appendix B contains maps, charts, and other
refers to the entire nation. Similarly, the expression information useful to diligent Bible students.
fatherless boy was rendered fatherless child or
In the main text of the Bible, each book features an
orphan to show that it may refer to a boy or a girl. On
outline of its chapter contents, along with the related verses,
the other hand, since the Bible uses the male gender in
giving the reader an overview of the entire book. The center
reference to God and to his Son, as well as to various
column of each page contains the most relevant marginal
angels and demons, there is no basis for using genderless
references from previous editions, pointing to related Bible
terms as is done in some modern translations.
verses
Omission of indicators for second person plural. Past
editions also indicated whether the pronouns you and Page 13
your and second person verbs were singular or plural by Unit 2 (a)
using small capital letters to show plurality. This feature
was not retained in this revision, but readers may consult A3 how the Bible Came to Us
earlier editions of this translation for this information. *** nwt pp. 1726-1730 A3 How the Bible Came to Us ***
How the Bible Came to Us
All adjustments in the Bible text were made
prayerfully, carefully, and with deep respect for the The Author and Originator of the Bible is also
fine work of the original New World Bible Translation its Preserver. He is the One who caused this
Committee. statement to be recorded:
Other features of this revision: The word of our God endures forever.
This Bible edition contains a limited number of footnotes. Isaiah 40:8.
The footnotes generally fall into the following categories:
That statement is true, even though no original Bible
Or Alternative ways the text could be manuscript of the Hebrew and Aramaic Scriptures or of the
rendered from Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek that Christian Greek Scriptures has survived to our day.
would give the same overall idea.Genesis Therefore, how can we be so certain that the contents of the
1:2, footnote on active force; Joshua 1:8, Bible we have today truly reflect the original inspired
undertone. writings?
Or possibly Alternative ways the text could COPYISTS PRESERVE GODS WORD
be rendered that would convey a valid yet
different overall idea.Genesis 21:6, laugh Regarding the Hebrew Scriptures, part of the answer lies
with me; Zechariah 14:21, Canaanite. in an ancient tradition that was established by God, who said
that the text should be copied. For example, Jehovah
Lit. A word-for-word translation from the instructed the kings of Israel to make their own copies of the
Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek or the basic written Law. (Deuteronomy 17:18) Additionally, God made
meaning of an original-language expression. the Levites responsible for preserving the Law and teaching it
Genesis 30:22, pregnant; Exodus 32:9, to the people. (Deuteronomy 31:26; Nehemiah 8:7) After the
obstinate. exile of the Jews to Babylon, a class of copyists, or scribes
Meaning and background information (Sopherim), developed. (Ezra 7:6, footnotes) Over time, those
Meaning of names (Genesis 3:17, Adam; scribes made numerous copies of the 39 books of the Hebrew
Exodus 15:23, Marah); details about weights Scriptures.
and measures (Genesis 6:15, cubits); the Through the centuries, scribes meticulously copied these
antecedent of a pronoun (Genesis 38:5, He); books. During the Middle Ages, a group of Jewish scribes
helpful information in the Appendix and the known as the Masoretes carried on that tradition. The oldest
Glossary.Genesis 37:35, Grave; Matthew complete Masoretic manuscript is the Leningrad Codex,
5:22, Gehenna. which dates from 1008/1009 C.E. However, in the middle of
The front section, entitled An Introduction to Gods the 20th century, some 220 Biblical manuscripts or fragments
Word, contains an outline of basic teachings found in the were discovered among the Dead Sea Scrolls. Those Biblical
Bible. Immediately following the Bible text is the Table of manuscripts were more than a thousand years older than the
the Books of the Bible, the Bible Words Index, and the Leningrad Codex. A comparison of the Dead Sea Scrolls with
Glossary of Bible Terms. The Glossary helps the reader the Leningrad Codex confirms a vital point: While the Dead
understand selected expressions according to their Bible- Sea Scrolls contain some variations in wording, none of those
specific usage. Appendix A contains the following sections: variations affect the message itself.
Principles of Bible Translation, Features of This What about the 27 books of the Christian Greek
Revision, How the Bible Came to Us, The Divine Name Scriptures? Those books were first penned by some of the
in the Hebrew Scriptures, The Divine Name in the apostles of Jesus Christ and by a few other early disciples.
Christian Greek Scriptures, Chart: Prophets and Kings of Following the tradition of the Jewish scribes, early Christians
17
made copies of those books. (Colossians 4:16) Despite second and third centuries C.E., were also used. Since then,
attempts by Roman Emperor Diocletian and others to destroy more papyri have become available. In addition, master texts
all early Christian literature, thousands of ancient fragments such as those by Nestle and Aland and by the United Bible
and manuscripts have been preserved until our day. Societies reflect recent scholarly studies. Some of the
findings of this research were incorporated into this present
Christian writings were also translated into other
revision.
languages. Early translations of the Bible include those in
such ancient languages as Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopic, Based on those master texts, it is evident that some verses
Georgian, Latin, and Syriac. of the Christian Greek Scriptures found in older translations,
such as the King James Version, were actually additions made
ESTABLISHING THE HEBREW AND GREEK TEXTS
by later copyists and were never part of the inspired
FOR TRANSLATION
Scriptures. However, because the verse division generally
Not all copies of ancient Bible manuscripts contain accepted in Bible translations was already established in the
identical wording. How, then, can we know what the original 16th century, the omission of these verses now creates gaps in
text contained? the verse numbering in most Bibles. The verses are Matthew
17:21; 18:11; 23:14; Mark 7:16; 9:44, 46; 11:26; 15:28; Luke
The situation could be likened to that of a teacher who 17:36; 23:17; John 5:4; Acts 8:37; 15:34; 24:7; 28:29; and
asks 100 students to copy a chapter of a book. Even if the Romans 16:24. In this revised edition, those omitted verses
original chapter was later lost, a comparison of the 100 copies are indicated by a footnote at the location of the omission.
would still reveal the original text. While each student might
make some errors, it is highly unlikely that all the students Regarding the long conclusion for Mark 16 (verses 9-20),
would make exactly the same ones. Similarly, when scholars the short conclusion for Mark 16, and the wording found at
compare the thousands of fragments and copies of ancient John 7:538:11, it is evident that none of these verses were
Bible books available to them, they can detect copyist error included in the original manuscripts. Therefore, those
and determine the original wording. spurious texts have not been included in this revision.
How confident can we be that the thoughts contained in Some other wording has been adjusted to incorporate
the original Bible texts have been accurately transmitted to what scholars generally accept as the most authentic
us? Commenting on the text of the Hebrew Scriptures, reflection of the original writings. For instance, according to
scholar William H. Green stated: It may be safely said that some manuscripts, Matthew 7:13 reads: Go in through the
no other work of antiquity has been so accurately narrow gate because broad is the gate and spacious is the
transmitted. Regarding the Christian Greek Scriptures, or so- road leading off into destruction. In previous editions of the
called New Testament, Bible scholar F. F. Bruce wrote: The New World Translation, is the gate was not included in the
evidence for our New Testament writings is ever so much text. However, further study of the manuscript evidence led to
greater than the evidence for many writings of classical the conclusion that is the gate was in the original text. So it
authors, the authenticity of which no one dreams of was included in this present edition. There are a number of
questioning. He also said: If the New Testament were a similar refinements. However, these adjustments are minor,
collection of secular writings, their authenticity would and none of them change the basic message of Gods Word.
generally be regarded as beyond all doubt.
[Footnotes]
Hebrew Text: The New World Translation of the Hebrew
Referred to simply as the Hebrew Scriptures from here on.
Scriptures (1953-1960) was based on Biblia Hebraica, by
Rudolf Kittel. Since that time, updated editions of the One reason the manuscripts needed to be copied was that the
Hebrew text, namely, Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia and originals were written on perishable materials.
Biblia Hebraica Quinta, have included recent research based
Further details on why these verses are viewed as spurious
on the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient manuscripts. These
can be found in the footnotes of the New World
scholarly works reproduce the Leningrad Codex in the main
Translation of the Holy ScripturesWith References,
text along with footnotes that contain comparative wording
published in 1984.
from other sources, including the Samaritan Pentateuch, the
Dead Sea Scrolls, the Greek Septuagint, the Aramaic [Blurb on page 1727]
Targums, the Latin Vulgate, and the Syriac Peshitta. Both It may be safely said that no other work of antiquity has
Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia and Biblia Hebraica Quinta been so accurately transmitted
were consulted when preparing the present revision of the
[Picture on page 1728]
New World Translation.
Chapter 40 of Isaiahs book in the Dead Sea Scrolls (dated
Greek Text: In the late 19th century, scholars from 125 to 100 B.C.E.)
B. F. Westcott and F.J.A. Hort compared existing Bible When compared with Hebrew manuscripts from about a
manuscripts and fragments as they prepared the Greek master thousand years later, only minor differences were found,
text that they felt most closely reflected the original writings. mostly in spelling
In the mid-20th century, the New World Bible Translation
[Picture on page 1728]
Committee used that master text as the basis for its
Chapter 40 of Isaiahs book in the Aleppo Codex, an
translation. Other early papyri, thought to date back to the
important Hebrew Masoretic manuscript from about 930 C.E.
18
[Picture on page 1730] the title LORD in capital letters. But the question
A papyrus manuscript of 2 Corinthians 4:135:4 from about remains, Why have these translators felt free to substitute
200 C.E. or remove Gods name from the Bible when they
acknowledge that it is found in the Bible text thousands of
Page 14 Unit 2 (a) times? Who do they believe gave them authority to make
See previous page for nwt p. 179 such a change? Only they can say.

A4 The Divine Name in the Hebrew Scriptures Those who say that the divine name should not be used
because it is not known exactly how to pronounce it will
*** nwt pp. 1731-1735 A4 The Divine Name in the nevertheless freely use the name Jesus. However, Jesus
Hebrew Scriptures *** first-century disciples said his name quite differently from
A4 the way most Christians do today. To Jewish Christians,
The Divine Name in the Hebrew Scriptures the name Jesus was probably pronounced Yeshua. And
the title Christ was Mashiach, or Messiah. Greek-
The divine name, represented by the four Hebrew speaking Christians called him Iesous Khristos, and
consonants , appears nearly 7,000 times in the Hebrew Latin-speaking Christians Iesus Christus. Under
Scriptures. This translation renders those four letters, known inspiration, the Greek translation of his name was
as the Tetragrammaton, Jehovah. That name is by far the recorded in the Bible, showing that first-century
most frequently occurring name in the Bible. While the Christians followed the sensible course of using the form
inspired writers refer to God by many titles and descriptive of the name common in their language. Similarly, the
terms, such as Almighty, Most High, and Lord, the New World Bible Translation Committee feels that it is
Tetragrammaton is the only personal name they use to reasonable to use the form Jehovah, even though that
identify God. rendering is not exactly the way the divine name would
have been pronounced in ancient Hebrew.
Jehovah God himself directed Bible writers to use his
name. For example, he inspired the prophet Joel to write: Why does the New World Translation use the form
Everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved. Jehovah? In English, the four letters of the
(Joel 2:32) And God caused one psalmist to write: May Tetragrammaton ( )are represented by the consonants
people know that you, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are YHWH. As was true of all written words in ancient Hebrew,
the Most High over all the earth. (Psalm 83:18) In fact, the the Tetragrammaton contained no vowels. When ancient
divine name appears some 700 times in the book of Psalms Hebrew was in everyday use, readers easily provided the
alonea book of poetic writings that were to be sung and appropriate vowels.
recited by Gods people. Why, then, is Gods name missing About a thousand years after the Hebrew Scriptures were
from many Bible translations? Why does this translation use completed, Jewish scholars developed a system of
the form Jehovah? And what does the divine name, pronunciation points, or signs, by which to indicate what
Jehovah, mean? vowels to use when reading Hebrew. By that time, though,
Why is the name missing from many Bible many Jews had the superstitious idea that it was wrong to say
translations? The reasons vary. Some feel that Almighty God Gods personal name out loud, so they used substitute
does not need a unique name to identify him. Others appear expressions. Thus, it seems that when they copied the
to have been influenced by the Jewish tradition of avoiding Tetragrammaton, they combined the vowels for the substitute
the use of the name, perhaps out of fear of desecrating it. Still expressions with the four consonants representing the divine
others believe that since no one can be sure of the exact name. Therefore, the manuscripts with those vowel points do
pronunciation of Gods name, it is better just to use a title, not help in determining how the name was originally
such as Lord or God. Such objections, however, lack pronounced in Hebrew. Some feel that the name was
merit for the following reasons: pronounced Yahweh, whereas others suggest different
possibilities. A Dead Sea Scroll containing a portion of
Those who argue that Almighty God does not need a unique Leviticus in Greek transliterates the divine name Iao. Besides
name ignore evidence that early copies of his Word, that form, early Greek writers also suggest the pronunciations
including those preserved from before the time of Christ, Iae, Iabe, and Iaoue. However, there is no reason to be
contain Gods personal name. As noted above, God dogmatic. We simply do not know how Gods ancient
directed that his name be included in his Word some servants pronounced this name in Hebrew. (Genesis 13:4;
7,000 times. Obviously, he wants us to know and use his Exodus 3:15) What we do know is that God used his name
name. repeatedly in communication with his people, that they
Translators who remove the name out of deference to addressed him by that name, and that they used it freely in
Jewish tradition fail to recognize a key fact. While some speaking with others.Exodus 6:2; 1 Kings 8:23; Psalm
Jewish scribes refused to pronounce the name, they did 99:9.
not remove it from their copies of the Bible. Ancient Why, then, does this translation use the form Jehovah?
scrolls found in Qumran, near the Dead Sea, contain the Because that form of the divine name has a long history in the
name in many places. Some Bible translators hint that the English language.
divine name appeared in the original text by substituting
19
The first rendering of Gods personal name in an English Judah, and I am going to the house of Jehovah, but nobody is
Bible appeared in 1530 in William Tyndales translation of taking me into his house.
the Pentateuch. He used the form Iehouah. Over time, the (1 Samuel 2:25) If a man should sin against another man,
English language changed, and the spelling of the divine someone may appeal to Jehovah for him; but if a man should
name was modernized. For example, in 1612, Henry sin against Jehovah, who can pray for him? But they refused
Ainsworth used the form Iehovah throughout his to listen to their father, for Jehovah had determined to put
translation of the book of Psalms. Then, in 1639, when that them to death.
work was revised and printed with the Pentateuch, the form
(1 Samuel 6:3) They replied: If you send the ark of the
Jehovah was used. In 1901, the translators who produced
covenant of Jehovah the God of Israel away, do not send it
the American Standard Version of the Bible used the form
back without an offering. You should by all means return to
Jehovah where the divine name appeared in the Hebrew
him a guilt offering. Only then will you be healed, and it will
text.
be made known to you why his hand has not turned away
Explaining why he used Jehovah instead of Yahweh from you.
in his 1911 work Studies in the Psalms, respected Bible (1 Samuel 10:26) Saul also went to his home in Gibeah,
scholar Joseph Bryant Rotherham said that he wanted to accompanied by the warriors whose hearts Jehovah had
employ a form of the name more familiar (while perfectly touched.
acceptable) to the general Bible-reading public. In 1930
(1 Samuel 23:14) David stayed in the wilderness in places
scholar A. F. Kirkpatrick made a similar point regarding the
difficult to approach, in the mountainous region of the
use of the form Jehovah. He said: Modern grammarians
wilderness of Ziph. Saul searched for him constantly, but
argue that it ought to be read Yahveh or Yahaveh; but
Jehovah did not give him into his hand.
JEHOVAH seems firmly rooted in the English language, and
the really important point is not the exact pronunciation, but (1 Samuel 23:16) Jonathan the son of Saul now went out to
the recognition that it is a Proper Name, not merely an David at Horesh, and he helped him find strength in Jehovah.
appellative title like Lord.
A5 The Divine Name in the Christian Greek Scriptures
What is the meaning of the name Jehovah? In Hebrew, *** nwt pp. 1736-1741 A5 The Divine Name in the
the name Jehovah comes from a verb that means to Christian Greek Scriptures ***
become, and a number of scholars feel that it reflects the A5
causative form of that Hebrew verb. Thus, the understanding The Divine Name in the Christian Greek Scriptures
of the New World Bible Translation Committee is that Gods
name means He Causes to Become. Scholars hold varying Bible scholars acknowledge that Gods personal name, as
views, so we cannot be dogmatic about this meaning. represented by the Tetragrammaton (), appears almost
However, this definition well fits Jehovahs role as the 7,000 times in the original text of the Hebrew Scriptures.
Creator of all things and the Fulfiller of his purpose. He not However, many feel that it did not appear in the original text
only caused the physical universe and intelligent beings to of the Christian Greek Scriptures. For this reason, most
exist, but as events unfold, he continues to cause his will and modern English Bibles do not use the name Jehovah when
purpose to be realized. translating the so-called New Testament. Even when
Therefore, the meaning of the name Jehovah is not limited translating quotations from the Hebrew Scriptures in which
to the related verb found at Exodus 3:14, which reads: I Will the Tetragrammaton appears, most translators use Lord
Become What I Choose to Become or, I Will Prove to Be rather than Gods personal name.
What I Will Prove to Be. In the strictest sense, those words The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures does
do not fully define Gods name. Rather, they reveal an aspect not follow this common practice. It uses the name Jehovah a
of Gods personality, showing that he becomes what is total of 237 times in the Christian Greek Scriptures. In
needed in each circumstance to fulfill his purpose. So while deciding to do this, the translators took into consideration two
the name Jehovah may include this idea, it is not limited to important factors: (1) The Greek manuscripts we possess
what he himself chooses to become. It also includes what he today are not the originals. Of the thousands of copies in
causes to happen with regard to his creation and the existence today, most were made at least two centuries after
accomplishment of his purpose. the originals were composed. (2) By that time, those copying
the manuscripts either replaced the Tetragrammaton with Ky
(Exodus 3:14) So God said to Moses: I Will Become What I rios, the Greek word for Lord, or they copied from
Choose to Become. And he added: This is what you are to manuscripts where this had already been done.
say to the Israelites, I Will Become has sent me to you.
The New World Bible Translation Committee determined
Page 15 that there is compelling evidence that the Tetragrammaton did
Unit 2 (a) appear in the original Greek manuscripts. The decision was
based on the following evidence:
(Judges 19:18) He replied: We are traveling from Beth
lehem in Judah to a remote area of the mountainous region Copies of the Hebrew Scriptures used in the days of
of Ephraim, where I am from. I went to Bethlehem in Jesus and his apostles contained the Tetragrammaton
throughout the text. In the past, few people disputed that

20
conclusion. Now that copies of the Hebrew Scriptures on other days of the week, one cuts out the references to
dating back to the first century have been discovered near the Divine Name which are in them [understood to refer
Qumran, the point has been proved beyond any doubt. to the Christian writings] and stores them away, and the
rest burns.
In the days of Jesus and his apostles, the
Tetragrammaton also appeared in Greek translations Some Bible scholars acknowledge that it seems likely
of the Hebrew Scriptures. For centuries, scholars that the divine name appeared in Hebrew Scripture
thought that the Tetragrammaton was absent from quotations found in the Christian Greek Scriptures.
manuscripts of the Greek Septuagint translation of the Under the heading Tetragrammaton in the New
Hebrew Scriptures. Then, in the mid-20th century, some Testament, The Anchor Bible Dictionary states: There is
very old fragments of the Greek Septuagint version that some evidence that the Tetragrammaton, the Divine
existed in Jesus day were brought to the attention of Name, Yahweh, appeared in some or all of the O[ld]
scholars. Those fragments contain the personal name of T[estament] quotations in the N[ew] T[estament] when
God, written in Hebrew characters. So in Jesus day, the NT documents were first penned. Scholar George
copies of the Scriptures in Greek did contain the divine Howard says: Since the Tetragram was still written in the
name. However, by the fourth century C.E., major copies of the Greek Bible [the Septuagint] which made up
manuscripts of the Greek Septuagint, such as the Codex the Scriptures of the early church, it is reasonable to
Vaticanus and Codex Sinaiticus, did not contain the divine believe that the N[ew] T[estament] writers, when quoting
name in the books from Genesis through Malachi (where from Scripture, preserved the Tetragram within the
it had been in earlier manuscripts). Hence, it is not biblical text.
surprising that in texts preserved from that time period,
Recognized Bible translators have used Gods name in
the divine name is not found in the so-called New
the Christian Greek Scriptures. Some of these
Testament, or Greek Scripture portion of the Bible.
translators did so long before the New World Translation
The Christian Greek Scriptures themselves report that was produced. These translators and their works include:
Jesus often referred to Gods name and made it known A Literal Translation of the New Testament . . . From the
to others. (John 17:6, 11, 12, 26) Jesus plainly stated: I Text of the Vatican Manuscript, by Herman Heinfetter
have come in the name of my Father. He also stressed (1863); The Emphatic Diaglott, by Benjamin Wilson
that his works were done in his Fathers name.John (1864); The Epistles of Paul in Modern English, by
5:43; 10:25. George Barker Stevens (1898); St. Pauls Epistle to the
Romans, by W. G. Rutherford (1900); The New Testament
Since the Christian Greek Scriptures were an inspired
Letters, by J.W.C. Wand, Bishop of London (1946). In
addition to the sacred Hebrew Scriptures, the sudden
addition, in a Spanish translation in the early 20th century,
disappearance of Jehovahs name from the text would
translator Pablo Besson used Jehov at Jude 14, and
seem inconsistent. About the middle of the first century
nearly 100 footnotes in his translation suggest the divine
C.E., the disciple James said to the elders in Jerusalem:
name as a likely rendering. Long before those
Symeon has related thoroughly how God for the first
translations, Hebrew versions of the Christian Greek
time turned his attention to the nations to take out of them
Scriptures from the 16th century onward used the
a people for his name. (Acts 15:14) It would not be
Tetragrammaton in many passages. In the German
logical for James to make such a statement if no one in
language alone, at least 11 versions use Jehovah (or the
the first century knew or used Gods name.
transliteration of the Hebrew Yahweh) in the Christian
The divine name appears in its abbreviated form in the Greek Scriptures, while four translators add the name in
Christian Greek Scriptures. At Revelation 19:1, 3, 4, 6, parentheses after Lord. More than 70 German
the divine name is embedded in the word Hallelujah. translations use the divine name in footnotes or
This comes from a Hebrew expression that literally means commentaries.
Praise Jah. Jah is a contraction of the name Jehovah.
Bible translations in over one hundred different
Many names used in the Christian Greek Scriptures were
languages contain the divine name in the Christian
derived from the divine name. In fact, reference works
Greek Scriptures. Many African, Native American,
explain that Jesus own name means Jehovah Is
Asian, European, and Pacific-island languages use the
Salvation.
divine name liberally. (See the list on pages 1742 and
Early Jewish writings indicate that Jewish Christians 1743.) The translators of these editions decided to use the
used the divine name in their writings. The Tosefta, a divine name for reasons similar to those stated above.
written collection of oral laws that was completed by Some of these translations of the Christian Greek
about 300 C.E., says with regard to Christian writings that Scriptures have appeared recently, such as the Rotuman
were burned on the Sabbath: The books of the Bible (1999), which uses Jihova 51 times in 48 verses,
Evangelists and the books of the minim [thought to be and the Batak (Toba) version (1989) from Indonesia,
Jewish Christians] they do not save from a fire. But they which uses Jahowa 110 times.
are allowed to burn where they are, they and the
Without a doubt, there is a clear basis for restoring the
references to the Divine Name which are in them. This
divine name, Jehovah, in the Christian Greek Scriptures. That
same source quotes Rabbi Yos the Galilean, who lived at
is exactly what the translators of the New World Translation
the beginning of the second century C.E., as saying that
21
have done. They have a deep respect for the divine name and (Genesis 25:8) Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a
a healthy fear of removing anything that appeared in the good old age, old and satisfied, and was gathered to his
original text.Revelation 22:18, 19 people.
(Joshua 3:4) But keep a distance of about 2,000 cubits from
Page 16 Unit 2 (b) it; do not come any nearer to it, so that you may know which
Using the New World Translation-Part 2
is the way to go, for you have not traveled on this way
OPENING DISCUSSION before.
(Psalm 119:97) How I do love your law! I ponder over it all
day long. (Judges 7:19) Gideon and the 100 men who were with him
came to the edge of the camp at the start of the middle night
QUESTION OUTLINE watch, just after the sentries were posted. They blew the
Footnotes (Appendix A2) horns and smashed the large water jars that were in their
hands.
*** nwt p. 1725 A2 Features of This Revision ***
(Acts 15:20) but to write them to abstain from things polluted
This Bible edition contains a limited number of footnotes. by idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and
The footnotes generally fall into the following categories: from blood.
Or Alternative ways the text could be (Acts 15:29) to keep abstaining from things sacrificed to
rendered from Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek that idols, from blood, from what is strangled, and from sexual
would give the same overall idea.Genesis immorality. If you carefully keep yourselves from these
1:2, footnote on active force; Joshua 1:8, things, you will prosper. Good health to you!
undertone. (Matthew 24:3) While he was sitting on the Mount of
Olives, the disciples approached him privately, saying: Tell
Or possibly Alternative ways the text could
us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of
be rendered that would convey a valid yet
your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?
different overall idea.Genesis 21:6, laugh
with me; Zechariah 14:21, Canaanite. (Mark 8:34) He now called the crowd to him with his
disciples and said to them: If anyone wants to come after
Lit. A word-for-word translation from the me, let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake and
Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek or the basic keep following me.
meaning of an original-language expression.
Genesis 30:22, pregnant; Exodus 32:9,
obstinate. *** nwt pp. 1723-1724 A2 Features of This Revision ***
Meaning and background information Biblical expressions clarified. Some terms used in
Meaning of names (Genesis 3:17, Adam; previous editions of the English New World Translation
Exodus 15:23, Marah); details about weights often needed to be explained in order to be properly
and measures (Genesis 6:15, cubits); the understood. For example, the Hebrew term Sheol and
antecedent of a pronoun (Genesis 38:5, He); the Greek term Hades are used in the Bible to refer to
helpful information in the Appendix and the the common grave of mankind. Those terms are
Glossary.Genesis 37:35, Grave; Matthew unknown to many, and Hades has a dual meaning as a
5:22, Gehenna result of its usage in Greek mythology. Therefore, both
terms were replaced with what was meant by the Bible
(Job 21:13) They spend their days in contentment And go writers, the Grave. The terms Sheol and Hades are
down peacefully to the Grave. now given in footnotes.Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:27.
(Psalm 51:5) Look! I was born guilty of error, And my In past editions, the Hebrew word nephesh and the
mother conceived me in sin. Greek word psykhe were consistently rendered
(Luke 14:26) If anyone comes to me and does not hate his soul. In view of the many misconceptions
father and mother and wife and children and brothers and regarding the meaning of the word soul, this
sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. approach helped the reader to see how the inspired
(Ecclesiastes 7:9) Do not be quick to take offense, for the Bible writers used these original-language terms.
taking of offense lodges in the bosom of fools. Depending on the context, those words may refer (1)
to a person, (2) to the life of a person, (3) to living
(Galatians 5:14) For the entire Law has been fulfilled in one creatures, (4) to the desires and appetite of a person
commandment, namely: You must love your neighbor as or, in some cases, (5) even to dead individuals.
yourself. However, since such use of the word soul is not
(John 2:4) But Jesus said to her: Woman, why is that of common in English, the decision was made to render
concern to me and to you? My hour has not yet come. these original-language words according to their
(Genesis 24:32) With that the man came into the house, and intended meaning, usually with a footnote that reads
he unharnessed the camels and gave straw and fodder to the Or soul. (See, for example, Genesis 1:20; 2:7;
camels and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men Leviticus 19:28; Psalm 3:2; Proverbs 16:26;
who were with him. Matthew 6:25.) However, in some poetic or well-
22
known contexts, the word soul was retained in the (Exodus 23:19) You are to bring the best of the first ripe
main text, along with a footnote referring to the fruits of your ground to the house of Jehovah your God. You
Glossary or showing another possible rendering. must not boil a young goat in its mothers milk.
Deuteronomy 6:5; Psalm 131:2; Proverbs 2:10; (1 Corinthians 15:20) But now Christ has been raised from
Matthew 22:37. the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep in
Similarly, the word kidney was retained when it death.
refers to the literal organ. However, when it is used
figuratively in such verses as Psalm 7:9 and 26:2 and Bible Words Index
Revelation 2:23, the intended idea of deepest
emotions or innermost thoughts is conveyed in *** nwt p. 1667 Bible Words Index ***
the main text, and the literal idea is given in a COMFORT, Job 2:11 sympathize with Job, c. him
footnote. Isa 61:2 to c. all who mourn
Like its Hebrew and Greek equivalents, the English Ro 15:4 through the c. from the Scriptures
expression heart has both a literal and a figurative 2Co 1:3 God of all c.
meaning, so it was usually retained in the main text. 2Co 1:4 that we be able to c. others
However, in a few contexts where the sense was not Glossary of Bible Terms
clear, a more explicit rendering was used. For See glossary nwt pp. 1692-1716
example, in the book of Proverbs, in want of heart
Page 18 Unit 2 (b)
now reads lacking good sense, and the literal idea
is given in a footnote. Other expressions, for
A6 Chart: Prophets and Kings of Judah and of Israel
instance, fat, flesh, and horn, were handled
similarly, according to the context. (Genesis 45:18;
See nwt pp. 1744-1747
Ecclesiastes 5:6; Job 16:15) Some of these See chart in Bible
expressions are discussed in the Glossary of Bible
Terms. A7 Main Events of Jesus Earthly Life
See nwt pp. 1748-1763
(John 12:38) so that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be Appendix B
fulfilled, who said: Jehovah, who has put faith in the thing
heard from us? And as for the arm of Jehovah, to whom has it See nwt p. 1765-1767
been revealed?
(1 Corinthians 7:17) Nevertheless, just as Jehovah has given
each one a portion, let each one so walk as God has called Page 19 Unit 2 (b)
him. And so I give this directive in all the congregations.
An introduction to Gods Word
Page 17 Unit 2 (b) *** nwt p. 1725 A2 Features of This Revision ***
The front section, entitled An Introduction to Gods
Marginal References Word, contains an outline of basic teachings found in the
Bible.
(Matthew 4:1) Then Jesus was led by the spirit up into the
wilderness to be tempted by the Devil. *** nwt p. 1725 A2 Features of This Revision ***
(Luke 4:1) Then Jesus, full of holy spirit, turned away from
the Jordan, and he was led about by the spirit in the In the main text of the Bible, each book features an
wilderness outline of its chapter contents, along with the related verses,
giving the reader an overview of the entire book. The center
(Psalm 22:1) My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
column of each page contains the most relevant marginal
Why are you far from saving me, Far from my cries of
references from previous editions, pointing to related Bible
anguish?
verses.
(Matthew 27:46) About the ninth hour, Jesus called out with
a loud voice, saying: Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that Page 20
is, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Unit 3 (a)
(Deuteronomy 8:3) So he humbled you and let you go
hungry and fed you with the manna, which neither you had Keep Pace With Spritual Enlightenment
known nor your fathers had known, in order to make you
know that man does not live by bread alone but man lives by OPENING DISCUSSION
every expression from Jehovahs mouth. (Acts 10:45) And the circumcised believers who had come
with Peter were amazed, because the free gift of the holy
(Matthew 4:4) But he answered: It is written: Man must
spirit was being poured out also on people of the nations.
live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from
Jehovahs mouth.
23
(Luke 12:12) for the holy spirit will teach you in that very illuminate them with the glorious knowledge of God by the
hour the things you should say. face of Christ.
(John 16:12, 13) I still have many things to say to you, but
you are not able to bear them now. 13 However, when that one True Worshippers in the First Century
comes, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the (Acts 15:7-12) After much intense discussion had taken
truth, for he will not speak of his own initiative, but what he place, Peter rose and said to them: Men, brothers, you well
hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things to know that from early days God made the choice among you
come. that through my mouth people of the nations should hear the
(Proverbs 4:18) But the path of the righteous is like the word of the good news and believe. 8 And God, who knows
bright morning light That grows brighter and brighter until the heart, bore witness by giving them the holy spirit, just as
full daylight. he did to us also. 9 And he made no distinction at all between
(1 Corinthians 2:9, 10) But just as it is written: Eye has not us and them, but purified their hearts by faith. 10 So why are
seen and ear has not heard, nor have there been conceived in you now making a test of God by imposing on the neck of the
the heart of man the things that God has prepared for those disciples a yoke that neither our forefathers nor we were
who love him. 10 For it is to us God has revealed them capable of bearing? 11 On the contrary, we have faith that we
through his spirit, for the spirit searches into all things, even are saved through the undeserved kindness of the Lord Jesus
the deep things of God. in the same way that they are. 12 At that the entire group
became silent, and they began to listen to Barnabas and Paul
QUESTION OUTLINE relate the many signs and wonders that God had done through
(Psalm 43:3) Send out your light and your truth. May these them among the nations.
lead me; May they guide me to your holy mountain and to (Acts 16:4) As they traveled on through the cities, they would
your grand tabernacle. deliver to them for observance the decrees that had been
(Isaiah 42:6, 7) I, Jehovah, have called you in decided on by the apostles and the elders who were in
righteousness; I have taken hold of your hand. I will Jerusalem.
safeguard you and give you as a covenant for the people And (Acts 15:25-31) we have come to a unanimous decision to
as a light of the nations, 7 For you to open the blind eyes, To choose men to send to you together with our beloved Bar
bring the prisoner out of the dungeon And those sitting in nabas and Paul, 26 men who have given up their lives for the
darkness out of the prison. name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 We are therefore sending
Judas and Silas, so that they also may report the same things
*** w00 3/15 pp. 10-11 par. 1 O God, Send Out Your by word of mouth. 28 For the holy spirit and we ourselves
Light *** have favored adding no further burden to you except these
necessary things: 29 to keep abstaining from things sacrificed
JEHOVAH is very considerate in the way he makes his to idols, from blood, from what is strangled, and from sexual
purposes known to his servants. Instead of revealing the truth immorality. If you carefully keep yourselves from these
all at once in one blinding flash of light, he enlightens us things, you will prosper. Good health to you! 30 So when
progressively. Our trek along lifes pathway might be these men were dismissed, they went down to Antioch, and
compared to a walk that a hiker takes down a long trail. He they gathered the whole group together and handed them the
starts out early in the morning and sees little. As the sun letter. 31 After reading it, they rejoiced over the
begins to rise slowly over the horizon, the hiker is able to encouragement.
distinguish a few features of his surroundings. The rest he
sees in hazy outline. But as the sun continues its ascent, he (Acts 16:4, 5) As they traveled on through the cities, they
can see farther and farther into the distance. So it is with the would deliver to them for observance the decrees that had
spiritual light that God provides. He allows us to discern a been decided on by the apostles and the elders who were in
few things at a time. Gods Son, Jesus Christ, provided Jerusalem. 5 Then, indeed, the congregations continued to be
spiritual enlightenment in a similar manner. Let us consider made firm in the faith and to increase in number day by day.
how Jehovah enlightened his people in ancient times and how True Worshippers Today
he does so today. W14 1/15 p. 13 par. 6
Jesus then used his kingly authority to appoint a faithful and
Page 21 Unit 3 (a) discreet slave. This slave would provide a regular supply of
wholesome spiritual food to all who make up the one flock
under Jesus care. (Matt. 24:45-47; John 10:16) Since 1919, a
(John 9:5) As long as I am in the world, I am the worlds small group of anointed brothers have loyally carried out the
light. weighty responsibility to feed the domestics. The abundant
(John 12:35) So Jesus said to them: The light will be among spiritual food provided through this channel nourishes us so
that we can grow in the faith. It fortifies our resolve to remain
you a little while longer. Walk while you still have the light, spiritually, morally, mentally, and physically clean. This
so that darkness does not overpower you; whoever walks in spiritual food also educates us and equips us to have a full
the darkness does not know where he is going. share in the most important work being done on earth today.
Are you taking full advantage of these provisions?
(2 Corinthians 4:6) For God is the one who said: Let the
light shine out of darkness, and he has shone on our hearts to

24
*** w13 7/15 p. 22 par. 10 Who Really Is the Faithful (1 Thess. 4:15-17) But referring to the tabernacle, Paul wrote:
and Discreet Slave? *** This very tent is an illustration for the appointed time that is
10
now here.Heb. 9:9.
Who, then, is the faithful and discreet slave? In By carefully comparing these and other scriptures, it became
keeping with Jesus pattern of feeding many through the clear that the spiritual temple is not in the process of being
hands of a few, that slave is made up of a small group of built and that anointed Christians are not stones being
anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and fashioned on earth for inclusion in it. Rather, anointed
dispensing spiritual food during Christs presence. Christians are serving in the courtyard and in the Holy of the
Throughout the last days, the anointed brothers who make up spiritual temple, daily offering to God a sacrifice of
the faithful slave have served together at headquarters. In praise.Heb. 13:15.
recent decades, that slave has been closely identified with the
Governing Body of Jehovahs Witnesses. Note, however, that
the word slave in Jesus illustration is singular, indicating (Luke 21:26) People will become faint out of fear and
that this is a composite slave. The decisions of the Governing expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth, for
Body are thus made collectively. the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

*** w94 2/15 pp. 19-20 pars. 14-18 Tell Us, When Will
(1 Peter 1:10-12) Concerning this salvation, the prophets These Things Be? ***
who prophesied about the undeserved kindness meant for you 14
made a diligent inquiry and a careful search. 11 They kept on The fulfillment of Joels prophecy (in harmony with
investigating what particular time or what season the spirit other prophecies using similar language) helps us to
within them was indicating concerning Christ as it testified understand the words at Matthew 24:29. Clearly, what Jesus
beforehand about the sufferings meant for Christ and about said about the sun being darkened, the moon not giving light,
the glory that would follow. 12 It was revealed to them that and the stars falling does not refer to things occurring over
they were ministering, not to themselves, but to you, the many decades of the conclusion of the present system,
regarding what has now been announced to you by those who such as space rocketry, moon landings, and the like. No, he
declared the good news to you with holy spirit sent from pointed to things tied in with the great and fear-inspiring day
heaven. Into these very things, angels are desiring to peer. of Jehovah, the destruction yet to come.
15
This relates to our understanding of how the celestial
*** w10 7/15 p. 22 The Spirit Searches Into . . . the Deep phenomena would be immediately after the tribulation.
Things of God *** Jesus was not referring to the tribulation that culminated in
[Box on page 22] 70 C.E. Rather, he was pointing to the start of the great
How the Spirit Revealed the Meaning of the Spiritual tribulation to befall the world system in the future, climaxing
Temple his promised presence. (Matthew 24:3) That tribulation is
Among the deep things of God revealed during the first still ahead of us.
century was that the tabernacle and later the temples 16
What about the words at Mark 13:24: In those days,
foreshadowed a much greater spiritual reality. Paul called that after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon
reality the true tent, which Jehovah put up, and not man. will not give its light? Here, both those and that are
(Heb. 8:2) This was a great spiritual temple, an arrangement forms of the Greek word ekeinos, a demonstrative pronoun
for approach to God made possible by the sacrifice and indicating something distant in time. Ekeinos can be used to
priesthood of Jesus Christ. indicate something long past (or previously mentioned) or
The true tent came into existence in 29 C.E. when Jesus something in the remote future. (Matthew 3:1; 7:22; 10:19;
was baptized and Jehovah accepted him as the one to become 24:38; Mark 13:11, 17, 32; 14:25; Luke 10:12;
a perfect sacrifice. (Heb. 10:5-10) After his death and 2 Thessalonians 1:10) Thus, Mark 13:24 points to that
resurrection, Jesus entered the Most Holy of the spiritual tribulation, not the tribulation stirred up by the Romans, but
temple and presented the value of his sacrifice before the Jehovahs mighty act at the end of the present system.
person of God.Heb. 9:11, 12, 24.
17
Elsewhere, the apostle Paul wrote of anointed Christians as Chapters 17 to 19 of Revelation fit and verify this
growing into a holy temple for Jehovah. (Eph. 2:20-22) adjusted understanding of Matthew 24:29-31, Mark 13:24-27,
Was this temple to be the same as the true tent that he later and Luke 21:25-28. In what way? The Gospels show that this
described in his letter to the Hebrews? For decades, Jehovahs tribulation will not start and end at one fell swoop. After it
servants thought that it was. It seemed that anointed begins, some of disobedient mankind will still be alive to see
Christians were being fitted on earth to become stones in the sign of the Son of man and to reactto lament and, as
the heavenly temple of Jehovah.1 Pet. 2:5. stated at Luke 21:26, to become faint out of fear and
Toward the year 1971, however, responsible members of the expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth.
slave class began to discern that the temple spoken of by Paul That overwhelming fear will be due to their seeing the sign
in Ephesians could not be Jehovahs great spiritual temple. If that betokens their imminent destruction.
the true tent were composed of resurrected anointed 18
Christians, it would first come into existence after their The account in Revelation shows that the future great
resurrection began during the presence of the Lord. tribulation will begin when the militarized horns of the
international wild beast turn on the great harlot, Babylon
25
the Great. (Revelation 17:1, 10-16) But many people will
remain, for kings, merchants, ship captains, and others mourn *** w13 7/15 Who Really Is the Faithful and Discreet
the end of false religion. Doubtless many will realize that Slave? ***
their judgment will be next.Revelation 18:9-19. Who Really Is the Faithful and Discreet Slave?

Who really is the faithful and discreet slave


Page 22 Unit 3 (a) whom his master appointed over his
domestics?MATT. 24:45.
(Romans 13:1, 2) Let every person be in subjection to the
superior authorities, for there is no authority except by God;
the existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions CAN YOU FIND THE ANSWERS?
by God. 2 Therefore, whoever opposes the authority has taken
a stand against the arrangement of God; those who have taken Who is the faithful and discreet slave?
a stand against it will bring judgment against themselves.
Who are the domestics, and when did Jesus
*** w95 5/15 pp. 21-22 pars. 4-5 Part 2Flashes of Light appoint the faithful slave over them?
Great and Small ***
When will Christ appoint the faithful slave
4
A bright flash of light was seen in 1962 in connection over all his belongings, and what will they
with Romans 13:1, which says: Let every soul be subject include?
unto the higher powers [superior authorities, New World
BROTHERS, I cannot begin to count the times you
Translation]. (King James Version) The early Bible Students
have put into my hands articles that contained just what I
understood that the higher powers mentioned there referred
needed when I needed it most. That is how one sister
to worldly authorities. They took this scripture to mean that if
expressed her appreciation in a letter to the brothers who
a Christian was drafted in wartime, he would be obligated to
work at our world headquarters. Can you identify with her?
put on a uniform, shoulder a gun, and go to the front, to the
Many of us can. Should that surprise us? Not really.
trenches. It was felt that since a Christian could not kill a
fellow human, he would be compelled to fire his gun into the 2
The timely spiritual food we receive is proof that Jesus,
air if worst came to worst. the Head of the congregation, is keeping his promise to feed
5 us. Through whom is he doing so? When giving the sign of
The Watchtower of November 15 and of December 1,
his presence, Jesus said that he would use the faithful and
1962, shed clear light on the subject in discussing Jesus
discreet slave to give food at the proper time to his
words at Matthew 22:21: Pay back . . . Caesars things to
domestics. (Read Matthew 24:45-47.) That faithful slave is
Caesar, but Gods things to God. Relevant were the apostles
the channel through which Jesus is feeding his true followers
words at Acts 5:29: We must obey God as ruler rather than
in this time of the end. It is vital that we recognize the faithful
men. Christians are subject to Caesarthe higher
slave. Our spiritual health and our relationship with God
powersonly so long as this does not require that the
depend on this channel.Matt. 4:4; John 17:3.
Christian go contrary to Gods law. Subjection to Caesar was
seen to be relative, not absolute. Christians pay back to 3
How, then, are we to understand Jesus illustration
Caesar only what does not conflict with Gods requirements. about the faithful slave? In the past, our publications have
How satisfying it was to have clear light on that subject said the following: At Pentecost 33 C.E., Jesus appointed the
faithful slave over his domestics. The slave represents all
(Matthew 6:9) You must pray, then, this way: Our Father anointed Christians on earth as a group at any one time since
in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. then. The domestics refer to the same anointed ones as
individuals. In 1919, Jesus appointed the faithful slave over
*** w95 5/15 p. 25 par. 17 Part 2Flashes of Light all his belongingsall his earthly Kingdom interests.
Great and Small *** However, further careful study and prayerful meditation
17
Similarly, for a long time, Witnesses spoke of the indicate that our understanding of Jesus words about the
vindication of Jehovahs name. But had Satan called faithful and discreet slave needs to be clarified. (Prov. 4:18)
Jehovahs name into question? For that matter, had any of Let us examine the illustration and how it involves us,
Satans agents done so, as if Jehovah did not have a right to whether we have the heavenly or the earthly hope.
that name? No, not at all. It was not the name of Jehovah that WHEN IS THE ILLUSTRATION FULFILLED?
was challenged and that needed to be vindicated. That is why
the Watch Tower Societys recent publications do not speak 4
The context of the illustration of the faithful and
of Jehovahs name as being vindicated. They speak of discreet slave shows that it began to be fulfilled, not at
Jehovahs sovereignty as being vindicated and of his name as Pentecost 33 C.E., but in this time of the end. Let us see how
being sanctified. This is in keeping with what Jesus told us to the Scriptures lead us to this conclusion.
pray: Let your name be sanctified. (Matthew 6:9) Time and 5
again, Jehovah said that he was going to sanctify his name, The illustration of the faithful slave is part of Jesus
which the Israelites had not challenged but had profaned. prophecy about the sign of [his] presence and of the
conclusion of the system of things. (Matt. 24:3) The first
Ezekiel 20:9, 14, 22; 36:23.
portion of the prophecy, recorded at Matthew 24:4-22, has
26
two fulfillmentsfirst, in the years from 33 C.E. through dispensing spiritual food during Christs presence.
70 C.E., and second, in a more far-reaching way in our day. Throughout the last days, the anointed brothers who make up
Does this mean that Jesus words about the faithful slave the faithful slave have served together at headquarters. In
would also have two fulfillments? No. recent decades, that slave has been closely identified with the
6
Governing Body of Jehovahs Witnesses. Note, however, that
Starting with the words recorded at Matthew 24:29, the word slave in Jesus illustration is singular, indicating
Jesus focused primarily on events that would happen in our that this is a composite slave. The decisions of the Governing
day. (Read Matthew 24:30, 42, 44.) Speaking about what will Body are thus made collectively.
happen during the great tribulation, he said that people will
see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven. Then, in WHO ARE THE DOMESTICS?
words meant for those living during the last days, he urged 11
vigilance, saying: You do not know on what day your Lord It is noteworthy that in Jesus illustration, the faithful
is coming and, At an hour that you do not think to be it, the and discreet slave receives two distinct appointments. The
Son of man is coming. In this contextwhen speaking first is over the domestics; the second is over all the masters
about events that would take place in the last daysJesus belongings. Since the illustration is fulfilled only in this time
related the illustration of the faithful slave. Therefore, we of the end, both appointments would have to come after
may conclude that his words about that faithful slave began to Jesus presence in kingly power began in 1914.
be fulfilled only after the last days began in 1914. Such a 12
When did Jesus appoint the faithful slave over his
conclusion makes sense. Why is that? domestics? To answer that, we need to go back to 1914the
7
Think, for a moment, about the question: Who really is beginning of the harvest season. As we learned earlier, at that
the faithful and discreet slave? In the first century, there was time many groups claimed to be Christian. From which group
hardly a reason to ask such a question. As we saw in the would Jesus select and appoint the faithful slave? That
preceding article, the apostles could perform miracles and question was answered after he and his Father came and
even transmit miraculous gifts as proof of divine backing. inspected the temple, or spiritual arrangement for worship,
(Acts 5:12) So why would anyone need to ask who really was from 1914 to the early part of 1919. (Mal. 3:1) They were
appointed by Christ to take the lead? In 1914, however, the pleased with a small band of loyal Bible Students who
situation was much different. The harvest season began in showed that their heart was with Jehovah and his Word. Of
that year. The time had finally arrived to separate the weeds course, they needed some cleansing, but they humbly
from the wheat. (Matt. 13:36-43) As the harvest season responded during a brief period of testing and refining. (Mal.
began, a vital question thus arose: With many imitation 3:2-4) Those faithful Bible Students were true Christian
Christians claiming to be Jesus true followers, how could the wheat. In 1919, a time of spiritual revival, Jesus selected
wheatanointed Christiansbe identified? The illustration capable anointed brothers from among them to be the faithful
of the faithful slave provided an answer. Christs anointed and discreet slave and appointed them over his domestics.
followers would be the ones who were well-fed spiritually. 13
Who, then, are the domestics? Put simply, they are
WHO IS THE FAITHFUL AND DISCREET SLAVE? those who are fed. Early in the last days, the domestics were
all anointed ones. Later, the domestics came to include the
8
The faithful slave must be made up of anointed great crowd of other sheep. The other sheep now make up the
Christians on earth. Such ones are called a royal priesthood vast majority of the one flock under Christs leadership.
and have been commissioned to declare abroad the (John 10:16) Both groups benefit from the same timely
excellencies of the one that called [them] out of darkness spiritual food that is dispensed by the faithful slave. What
into his wonderful light. (1 Pet. 2:9) It is only fitting that about the Governing Body members who today make up the
members of that royal priesthood have a direct share in faithful and discreet slave? Those brothers also need to be fed
teaching fellow believers the truth.Mal. 2:7; Rev. 12:17. spiritually. Hence, they humbly recognize that as individuals
9
they are domestics just like all the rest of Jesus genuine
Do all anointed ones on earth make up the faithful followers.
slave? No. The reality is that not all anointed ones have a role
14
in dispensing spiritual food to fellow believers worldwide. Jesus placed a weighty responsibility on the faithful
Among the wheat are anointed brothers who may serve as and discreet slave. In Bible times, a trusted slave, or steward,
ministerial servants or elders in their local congregation. They was a house manager. (Luke 12:42) The faithful and discreet
teach from house to house and in their congregation, and they slave is thus charged with the responsibility to manage the
loyally support the direction from headquarters. But they do household of faith. That responsibility includes overseeing
not have a part in dispensing spiritual food to the worldwide material assets, the preaching activity, assembly and
brotherhood. Also among the anointed are humble sisters, convention programs, and the production of Bible literature
who would never try to assume the role of teachers in the for use in the field ministry and in personal and congregation
congregation.1 Cor. 11:3; 14:34. study. The domestics depend on all the spiritual provisions
10
dispensed by the composite slave.
Who, then, is the faithful and discreet slave? In
keeping with Jesus pattern of feeding many through the APPOINTED OVER ALL THE MASTERS
hands of a few, that slave is made up of a small group of BELONGINGSWHEN?
anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and

27
15
When does Jesus make the second appointmentover ENDNOTES: (To be read as footnotes with
all his belongings? Jesus said: Happy is that slave if his the corresponding paragraphs.)
master on arriving [literally, having come, ftn.] finds him
doing so. Truly I say to you, He will appoint him over all his [Footnotes]
belongings. (Matt. 24:46, 47) Note that Jesus makes the Paragraph 2: On an earlier occasion, Jesus related a similar
second appointment after he arrives and finds that the slave illustration in which he referred to the slave as a
has been doing so, that is, faithfully dispensing spiritual steward and to the domestics as his body of
food. So there would be an interval between the two attendants.Luke 12:42-44.
appointments. To understand how and when Jesus appoints
the slave over all his belongings, we need to know two Paragraph 6: Christs coming (Greek, erkhomai) is
things: when he arrives and what his belongings include. different from his presence (parousia). His invisible
16
presence begins before his coming to execute judgment.
When does Jesus arrive? The answer is found in the
context. Remember that when the preceding verses speak of Paragraph 12: See the article Look! I Am With You All the
Jesus as coming, the word refers to the time when he comes Days, in this issue, pages 10-12, paragraphs 5-8.
to pronounce and execute judgment at the end of this system.
Paragraph 16: See the article Tell Us, When Will These
(Matt. 24:30, 42, 44) Hence, Jesus arriving, or coming,
Things Be? in this issue, pages 7-8, paragraphs 14-18.
mentioned in the illustration of the faithful slave takes place
during the great tribulation.
17
What do all [Jesus] belongings include? Jesus did [Picture on page 20]
not qualify the word all, as if to limit his belongings to
earthly things. In fact, Jesus has vast heavenly authority. All [Box on page 22]
authority has been given me in heaven and on the earth, he DID YOU GET THE POINT?
said. (Matt. 28:18; Eph. 1:20-23) His belongings now include The faithful and discreet slave: A small group of
the Messianic Kingdom, which has belonged to him since anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and
1914 and which he will share with his anointed followers. dispensing spiritual food during Christs presence. Today,
Rev. 11:15. these anointed brothers make up the Governing Body
18
In view of the foregoing, what can we conclude? When His domestics: All who are fed, whether they are of the
Jesus comes for judgment during the great tribulation, he will anointed or of the other sheep
find that the faithful slave has been loyally dispensing timely Appointed over his domestics: In 1919, Jesus selected
spiritual food to the domestics. Jesus will then delight in capable anointed brothers to be his faithful and discreet slave
making the second appointmentover all his belongings.
Those who make up the faithful slave will get this He will appoint him over all his belongings: Those who
appointment when they receive their heavenly reward, make up the composite slave will get this appointment when
becoming corulers with Christ. they receive their heavenly reward. Along with the rest of the
19
144,000, they will share Christs vast heavenly authority
Does the faithful slave receive a greater reward in
heaven than the rest of the anointed? No. A reward promised [Picture on pages 22, 23]
to a small group in one setting may ultimately be shared by Whether our hope is heavenly or earthly, we are all domestics
others. For example, consider what Jesus said to his 11 and need the same timely spiritual food
faithful apostles the night before he died. (Read Luke 22:28-
30.) Jesus promised that small group of men that a fine [Box on page 24]
reward awaited them for their faithfulness. They would share IF EVER THAT EVIL SLAVE . . .
his throne of kingly authority. But years later, he indicated Jesus has placed the weightiest of responsibilities on the
that all of the 144,000 will sit on thrones and share his faithful and discreet slavenamely, overseeing the domestics
rulership. (Rev. 1:1; 3:21) Similarly, as stated at Matthew and giving out spiritual food at the proper time. Jesus knew
24:47, he promised that a small group of menthe anointed that those with greater responsibility have greater
brothers who make up the faithful slavewill be appointed accountability. (Luke 12:48) Hence, he concluded his
over all his belongings. In reality, all of the 144,000 will illustration about the faithful and discreet slave with a
share his vast heavenly authority.Rev. 20:4, 6. powerful warning.
Jesus warned about an evil slave who concludes in his heart
20
By means of the faithful and discreet slave, Jesus is that the master is delaying and who starts to beat his fellow
following the pattern he set in the first centuryfeeding slaves. When the master arrives, said Jesus, he will punish
many through the hands of a few. Jesus appointed that that evil slave with the greatest severity.Read Matthew
faithful slave to ensure that his genuine followerswhether 24:48-51.
of the anointed or of the other sheepwould have a steady Was Jesus foretelling that there would be an evil slave class
supply of timely spiritual food throughout the last days. Let in the last days? No. Granted, some individuals have
us be determined to show our appreciation by giving our manifested a spirit similar to that of the evil slave described
loyal support to the anointed brothers who make up that by Jesus. We would call them apostates, whether they were of
faithful and discreet slave.Heb. 13:7, 17. the anointed or of the great crowd. (Rev. 7:9) But such ones
28
do not make up an evil slave class. Jesus did not say that he But these lost sight of the fact that Christ had given his
would appoint an evil slave. His words here are actually a followers a work to do.
warning directed to the faithful and discreet slave.
Notice that Jesus introduces the warning with the words if This problem was firmly addressed in the article
ever. One scholar says that in the Greek text, this passage Character or CovenantWhich? in the May 1, 1926, issue
for all practical purposes is a hypothetical condition. In of The Watch Tower. It showed that efforts to develop a
effect, Jesus was saying: If the faithful and discreet slave perfect character while in the flesh caused some to give up
were ever to mistreat his fellow slaves in these ways, this is in discouragement, but at the same time, it produced a more
what the master will do when he arrives. (See also Luke holy than thou attitude in others and tended to cause them to
12:45.) However, the composite faithful and discreet slave lose sight of the merit of Christs sacrifice. After emphasizing
has continued to keep on the watch and to provide nourishing faith in the shed blood of Christ, the article highlighted the
spiritual food. importance of doing things in the active service of God to
The anointed brothers who together serve as the faithful give evidence that one was pursuing a course pleasing to
slave recognize that they are accountable to the Master for the God. (2 Pet. 1:5-10) At that time, when much of Christendom
way they care for his domestics. The heartfelt desire of these still made a pretense of holding to Biblical moral standards,
anointed brothers is to fulfill their responsibility loyally so this emphasis on activity strengthened the contrast between
that they might hear a well done from the Master when he Jehovahs Witnesses and Christendom. The contrast became
finally arrives. even more evident as moral issues that were becoming
common had to be dealt with by all who professed to be
*** jv chap. 13 pp. 172-175 Recognized by Our Conduct Christians.
*** Abstain From Fornication
Chapter 13
Recognized by Our Conduct The Christian standard regarding sexual morality was set
out long ago in plain language in the Bible. This is what
WE LIVE in an era in which moral standards that were God wills, the sanctifying of you, that you abstain from
long respected have been discarded by large segments of fornication . . . For God called us, not with allowance for
mankind. Most religions of Christendom have followed suit, uncleanness, but in connection with sanctification. So, then,
either in the name of tolerance or with the argument that the man that shows disregard is disregarding, not man, but
times are different and the taboos of earlier generations no God. (1 Thess. 4:3-8) Let marriage be honorable among all,
longer apply. As to the result, Samuel Miller, a dean of and the marriage bed be without defilement, for God will
Harvard Divinity School, said: The church simply does not judge fornicators and adulterers. (Heb. 13:4) Do you not
have a cutting edge. It has taken the culture of our time and know that unrighteous persons will not inherit Gods
absorbed it. The effect on the lives of those who looked to kingdom? Do not be misled. Neither fornicators, . . . nor
such churches for guidance has been devastating. adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who
lie with men . . . will inherit Gods kingdom.1 Cor.
In contrast, when discussing Jehovahs Witnesses, 6:9, 10.
LEglise de Montral, the weekly bulletin of the Catholic
archdiocese of Montreal, Canada, said: They have In the Watch Tower, attention was drawn to this standard
remarkable moral values. Large numbers of schoolteachers, for true Christians as early as November of 1879. But it was
employers, and government officials agree with that. What not discussed repeatedly or at length as if this were a major
accounts for this reputation? problem among the early Bible Students. However, as the
attitude of the world became more permissive, increased
Being one of Jehovahs Witnesses involves much more attention was directed to this requirement, especially in the
than holding to a certain framework of doctrinal beliefs and years surrounding World War II. This was needed because
witnessing to others about these beliefs. Early Christianity some among Jehovahs Witnesses were adopting the view
was known as The Way, and Jehovahs Witnesses realize that as long as they were busy witnessing, a little laxness in
that true religion today must be a way of life. (Acts 9:2) As sexual morality was just a personal matter. It is true that The
was true in other things, however, the modern-day Witnesses Watchtower of March 1, 1935, had clearly stated that
did not immediately achieve a balanced appreciation of what participation in the field ministry gave no license for immoral
this involves. conduct. But not everyone took it to heart. So, in its issue of
May 15, 1941, The Watchtower again discussed the matter,
Character or CovenantWhich? and at considerable length, in an article entitled Noahs
Although they started with sound Scriptural counsel Day. It pointed out that the sexual debauchery in Noahs day
about the need to be Christlike, the emphasis that some of the was one reason why God destroyed the world of that time,
early Bible Students gave to character development, as they and it showed that what God did then set a pattern for what
called it, tended to minimize certain aspects of real he would do in our day. In plain language it warned that an
Christianity. Some of them seemed to be of the opinion that integrity-keeping servant of God could not devote part of his
being genteelalways appearing to be kind and good, day to doing the Lords will and then, after hours, indulge in
speaking softly, avoiding any display of anger, reading the the works of the flesh. (Gal. 5:17-21) This was followed
Scriptures dailywould guarantee their entrance into heaven. up, in The Watchtower of July 1, 1942, with another article
that condemned conduct that was out of line with the Bibles
29
moral standards for single and for married persons. No one counsel. These included Your YouthGetting the Best Out Of
was to conclude that sharing in public preaching of the It (published in 1976) and Questions Young People Ask
Kingdom message as one of Jehovahs Witnesses gave Answers That Work (published in 1989). Local elders gave
license for loose living. (1 Cor. 9:27) In time, even firmer personal spiritual help to individuals and to families. The
measures would be taken to safeguard the moral cleanness of congregations of Jehovahs Witnesses were also safeguarded
the organization. by expulsion of unrepentant wrongdoers.
Some who were then expressing a desire to be Jehovahs The worlds breakdown in morals has not led to a more
Witnesses had grown up in areas where trial marriage was permissive viewpoint among Jehovahs Witnesses. On the
accepted, where sex relations between engaged persons were contrary, the Governing Body of Jehovahs Witnesses has
tolerated, or where consensual relationships between persons placed increased emphasis on the necessity to avoid not only
not legally married were viewed as normal. A few married illicit sexual acts but also influences and situations that erode
couples were endeavoring to practice celibacy. Other moral values. During the past three decades, it has provided
individuals, though not divorced, were unwisely separated instruction to fortify individuals against such secret sins as
from their mates. To provide needed direction, The masturbation and to alert them to the danger of pornography,
Watchtower, during the 1950s, considered all these soap operas, and music that has a debasing effect. Thus, while
situations, discussed marital responsibilities, emphasized the the worlds moral trend has been downward, that of Jehovahs
Bibles prohibition of fornication, and explained what Witnesses has been upward.
fornication is, so there would be no misunderstanding.Acts
15:19, 20; 1 Cor. 6:18. Family Life Governed by Godly Standards

In places where people beginning to associate with Holding firmly to the Bibles standard of sexual morality
Jehovahs organization were not taking seriously the Bibles has greatly benefited the family life of Jehovahs Witnesses.
moral standards, this was given special attention. Thus, in But being one of Jehovahs Witnesses is no guarantee that a
1945, when N. H. Knorr, the third president of the Watch person will not have domestic problems. Nevertheless, the
Tower Society, was in Costa Rica, he gave a discourse on Witnesses are convinced that Gods Word gives the very best
Christian morality in which he said: All of you here tonight counsel on how to cope with such problems. They have
who are living with a woman but havent got your marriage available many provisions made by the organization to help
legally arranged, Im giving you some advice. Go to the them apply that counsel; and when they follow through on it,
Catholic Church and put your name down as a member, the results are, indeed, beneficial.
because there you can practice these things. But this is Gods
organization, and you cant practice these things here. (1 Corinthians 5:13) while God judges those outside?
Remove the wicked person from among yourselves.
Beginning with the 1960s, when homosexuals became
more open about their practices, many churches debated the *** w95 5/15 p. 13 par. 15 Flashes of Light in Apostolic
matter, then accepted them as members. Some churches now Times ***
even ordain homosexuals as clergymen. In order to help 15
Gross immorality was being tolerated in the Christian
sincere persons who had questions on these matters, the congregation at Corinth. A man there had taken his fathers
publications of Jehovahs Witnesses also discussed these wife, thus practicing such fornication as was not found even
issues. But among the Witnesses, there was never any among the nations. Plainly, Paul wrote: Remove the wicked
question as to how homosexuality would be viewed. Why man from among yourselves. (1 Corinthians 5:1, 11-13) That
not? Because they do not treat the Bibles requirements as if was something new for the Christian congregation
these were merely the opinions of men of another era. disfellowshipping. Another matter on which the Corinthian
(1 Thess. 2:13) They gladly conduct Bible studies with congregation needed enlightenment had to do with the fact
homosexuals so these can learn Jehovahs requirements, and that some of its members were taking their spiritual brothers
such persons may attend meetings of the Witnesses to listen, to worldly courts in order to settle grievances. Paul strongly
but no one who continues to practice homosexuality can be rebuked them for doing this.1 Corinthians 6:5-8
one of Jehovahs Witnesses.1 Cor. 6:9-11; Jude 7.
In recent years sexual indulgence by unmarried youths *** km 8/02 pp. 3-4 Display Christian Loyalty When a
became commonplace in the world. Youths in the families of Relative Is Disfellowshipped ***
Jehovahs Witnesses felt the pressure, and some began to Display Christian Loyalty When a Relative Is
adopt the ways of the world around them. How did the Disfellowshipped
organization deal with this situation? Articles designed to
1
help parents and youths to view things Scripturally were The bond between family members can be very strong.
published in The Watchtower and Awake! Real-life dramas This brings a test upon a Christian when a marriage mate, a
were presented at conventions to help everyone to be aware child, a parent, or another close relative is disfellowshipped
of the fruitage of rejecting the Bibles moral standards and of or has disassociated himself from the congregation. (Matt.
the benefits of obeying Gods commands. One of the first of 10:37) How should loyal Christians treat such a relative?
these, staged in 1969, was entitled Thorns and Traps Are in Does it make a difference if the person lives in your
the Way of the Independent One. Special books were household? First, let us review what the Bible says on this
prepared to help young folks appreciate the wisdom of Bible subject, the principles of which apply equally to those who
30
7
are disfellowshipped and to those who disassociate However, The Watchtower of September 15, 1981,
themselves. page 28, points out regarding the disfellowshipped or
2
disassociated person: Former spiritual ties have been
How to Treat Expelled Ones: Gods Word commands completely severed. This is true even with respect to his
Christians not to keep company or fellowship with a person relatives, including those within his immediate family
who has been expelled from the congregation: Quit mixing circle. . . . That will mean changes in the spiritual fellowship
in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator that may have existed in the home. For example, if the
or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or husband is disfellowshiped, his wife and children will not be
an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. . . . Remove comfortable with him conducting a family Bible study or
the wicked man from among yourselves. (1 Cor. 5:11, 13) leading in Bible reading and prayer. If he wants to say a
Jesus words recorded at Matthew 18:17 also bear on the prayer, such as at mealtime, he has a right to do so in his own
matter: Let [the expelled one] be to you just as a man of the home. But they can silently offer their own prayers to God.
nations and as a tax collector. Jesus hearers well knew that (Prov. 28:9; Ps. 119:145, 146) What if a disfellowshiped
the Jews of that day had no fraternization with Gentiles and person in the home wants to be present when the family reads
that they shunned tax collectors as outcasts. Jesus was thus the Bible together or has a Bible study? The others might let
instructing his followers not to associate with expelled ones. him be present to listen if he will not try to teach them or
See The Watchtower of September 15, 1981, pages 18-20. share his religious ideas.
3
This means that loyal Christians do not have spiritual 8
If a minor child living in the home is disfellowshipped,
fellowship with anyone who has been expelled from the Christian parents are still responsible for his upbringing. The
congregation. But more is involved. Gods Word states that Watchtower of November 15, 1988, page 20, states: Just as
we should not even eat with such a man. (1 Cor. 5:11) they will continue to provide him with food, clothing, and
Hence, we also avoid social fellowship with an expelled shelter, they need to instruct and discipline him in line with
person. This would rule out joining him in a picnic, party, ball Gods Word. (Proverbs 6:20-22; 29:17) Loving parents may
game, or trip to the mall or theater or sitting down to a meal thus arrange to have a home Bible study with him, even if he
with him either in the home or at a restaurant. is disfellowshipped. Maybe he will derive the most corrective
4
What about speaking with a disfellowshipped person? benefit from their studying with him alone. Or they may
While the Bible does not cover every possible situation, decide that he can continue to share in the family study
2 John 10 helps us to get Jehovahs view of matters: If arrangement.See also The Watchtower of October 1, 2001,
anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, never pages 16-17.
receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him. 9
Relatives Not in the Household: The situation is
Commenting on this, The Watchtower of September 15, 1981, different if the disfellowshipped or disassociated one is a
page 25, says: A simple Hello to someone can be the first relative living outside the immediate family circle and
step that develops into a conversation and maybe even a home, states The Watchtower of April 15, 1988, page 28. It
friendship. Would we want to take that first step with a might be possible to have almost no contact at all with the
disfellowshiped person? relative. Even if there were some family matters requiring
5
Indeed, it is just as page 31 of the same issue of The contact, this certainly would be kept to a minimum, in
Watchtower states: The fact is that when a Christian gives harmony with the divine injunction to quit mixing in
himself over to sin and has to be disfellowshiped, he forfeits company with anyone who is guilty of sinning
much: his approved standing with God; . . . sweet fellowship unrepentantly. (1 Cor. 5:11) Loyal Christians should strive to
with the brothers, including much of the association he had avoid needless association with such a relative, even keeping
with Christian relatives. business dealings to an absolute minimum.See also The
Watchtower of September 15, 1981, pages 29-30.
6
In the Immediate Household: Does this mean that 10
Christians living in the same household with a The Watchtower addresses another situation that can
disfellowshipped family member are to avoid talking to, arise: What if a close relative, such as a son or a parent who
eating with, and associating with that one as they go about does not live in the home, is disfellowshiped and
their daily activities? The Watchtower of April 15, 1991, in subsequently wants to move back there? The family could
the footnote on page 22, states: If in a Christians household decide what to do depending on the situation. For example, a
there is a disfellowshipped relative, that one would still be disfellowshiped parent may be sick or no longer able to care
part of the normal, day-to-day household dealings and for himself financially or physically. The Christian children
activities. Thus, it would be left up to members of the family have a Scriptural and moral obligation to assist. (1 Tim.
to decide on the extent to which the disfellowshipped family 5:8) . . . What is done may depend on factors such as the
member would be included when eating or engaging in other parents true needs, his attitude and the regard the head of the
household activities. And yet, they would not want to give household has for the spiritual welfare of the household.
brothers with whom they associate the impression that The Watchtower of September 15, 1981, pages 28-9.
everything is the same as it was before the disfellowshipping 11
As for a child, the same article continues: Sometimes
occurred. Christian parents have accepted back into the home for a time
a disfellowshiped child who has become physically or
emotionally ill. But in each case the parents can weigh the
31
individual circumstances. Has a disfellowshiped son lived on passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his
his own, and is he now unable to do so? Or does he want to heart. (Matt. 5:28) Of course, normal sexual relations are
move back primarily because it would be an easier life? What proper and a source of pleasure between marriage mates.
about his morals and attitude? Will he bring leaven into the (Prov. 5:15-19; 1 Cor. 7:2-5) But that is not the focus of
home?Gal. 5:9. pornography. Rather, it features illicit sex that stimulates the
12
sort of immoral thoughts that Jesus warned against. Plainly,
Benefits of Being Loyal to Jehovah: Cooperating reading or viewing pornography goes directly contrary to the
with the Scriptural arrangement to disfellowship and shun divine direction: Deaden, therefore, your body members that
unrepentant wrongdoers is beneficial. It preserves the are upon the earth as respects fornication, uncleanness, sexual
cleanness of the congregation and distinguishes us as appetite, hurtful desire, and covetousness, which is
upholders of the Bibles high moral standards. (1 Pet. 1:14- idolatry.Col. 3:5.
16) It protects us from corrupting influences. (Gal. 5:7-9) It
also affords the wrongdoer an opportunity to benefit fully What if a Christian did view pornography on an occasion
from the discipline received, which can help him to produce or two? His case might, in a sense, be likened to the
peaceable fruit, namely, righteousness.Heb. 12:11. dangerous situation in which the psalmist Asaph once found
13
himself: As for me, my feet had almost turned aside, my
After hearing a talk at a circuit assembly, a brother and steps had nearly been made to slip. How could the Christian
his fleshly sister realized that they needed to make have a clean conscience and be at peace with God if he was
adjustments in the way they treated their mother, who lived gazing at pornographic images of naked men or women or of
elsewhere and who had been disfellowshipped for six years. a couple engaging in fornication? Nor was Asaph at peace: I
Immediately after the assembly, the man called his mother, came to be plagued all day long, and my correction is every
and after assuring her of their love, he explained that they morning.Ps. 73:2, 14.
could no longer talk to her unless there were important family
matters requiring contact. Shortly thereafter, his mother A Christian caught up in that badness should wake up
began attending meetings and was eventually reinstated. and face his need for spiritual help. That help is available in
Also, her unbelieving husband began studying and in time the congregation: Even though a man takes some false step
was baptized. before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications
14
try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness, as you each
Loyally upholding the disfellowshipping arrangement keep an eye on yourself. (Gal. 6:1) A Christian elder or two
outlined in the Scriptures demonstrates our love for Jehovah could give him the help he needs, including prayers of faith
and provides an answer to the one that is taunting Him. (Prov. that can make the indisposed one well, and his sin can be
27:11) In turn, we can be assured of Jehovahs blessing. King forgiven. (Jas. 5:13-15) Those who have sought help to
David wrote regarding Jehovah: As for his statutes, I shall remove the stain of pornography have seen that drawing near
not turn aside from them. With someone loyal you will act in to God has been good for them, as it was for Asaph.Ps.
loyalty. 73:28.
(Ephesians 4:19) Having gone past all moral sense, they
gave themselves over to brazen conduct to practice every sort However, the apostle Paul said that some who sinned did
of uncleanness with greediness. not repent over their uncleanness and fornication and loose
conduct. (2 Cor. 12:21) Regarding the Greek term there
*** w12 3/15 pp. 30-31 Questions From Readers *** rendered uncleanness, Professor Marvin R. Vincent wrote
Questions From Readers that it has the sense of impurity on the side of sordidness. It
is a sad fact that some pornography is much worse than
Could a Christians practice of viewing pornography scenes of nakedness or of a man and woman engaging in
become so bad that it results in his being expelled from fornication. There is sordid, abhorrent pornography involving
the Christian congregation? homosexuality (sex between those of the same gender), group
sex, bestiality, child pornography, gang rape, the brutalizing
Yes, it could. That underscores why it is vital to shun of women, bondage, or sadistic torture. Some in Pauls day
vigorously all pornographyboth written material and who were in darkness mentally came to be past all moral
imagesin magazines, in films, in videos, and on the sense [and] gave themselves over to loose conduct to work
Internet. uncleanness of every sort with greediness.Eph. 4:18, 19.
Pornography is found everywhere around the globe. The Paul also mentioned uncleanness at Galatians 5:19. A
Internet makes pornographic material more available than British scholar noted that it may here [signify] more
ever and has increased the number affected by this terrible especially all unnatural lusts. What Christian would deny
plague. Some, young and old, have accidentally come across that the above-mentioned abhorrent, sexually degrading
pornographic Web sites. Others have deliberately gone to forms of pornography are unnatural lusts and are sordid?
them, feeling less inhibited because they can read or view Paul concluded at Galatians 5:19-21 that those who
pornography in secretat home or at the office. Why should practice such uncleanness will not inherit Gods kingdom.
this seriously concern Christians? Consequently, if someone developed an entrenched practice
of viewing abhorrent, sexually degrading pornography,
We find a fundamental reason in Jesus warning:
perhaps over a considerable period of time, and would not
Everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a
repent and turn around, he could not remain in the Christian
32
congregation. He would have to be disfellowshipped in order uncleanness and fornication and loose conduct that they have
to preserve the cleanness and spirit of the congregation. practiced. Since uncleanness is listed with fornication
1 Cor. 5:5, 11. and loose conduct, some forms of uncleanness warrant
judicial action. But uncleanness is a broad term that includes
It is good to know that some who fell into viewing things that are not of a judicial nature. Just as a house may be
abhorrent forms of pornography went to the elders and somewhat dirty or completely filthy, uncleanness has degrees.
received the spiritual help needed to make drastic changes.
Jesus appealed to Christians in ancient Sardis: Strengthen Paul said, according to Ephesians 4:19, that some
the things remaining that were ready to die, . . . continue individuals had come to be past all moral sense and that
mindful of how you have received and how you heard, and go they gave themselves over to loose conduct to work
on keeping it, and repent. Certainly unless you wake up, . . . uncleanness of every sort with greediness. Paul thus puts
you will not know at all at what hour I shall come upon you. uncleanness . . . with greediness in the same category as
(Rev. 3:2, 3) It is possible to repent and be snatched out of the loose conduct. If a baptized person unrepentantly practices
fire, as it were.Jude 22, 23. uncleanness . . . with greediness, he can be expelled from
the congregation on the grounds of gross uncleanness.
How much better, though, it is for each of us to be firmly
resolved not to come anywhere near that dangerous position. Suppose an engaged couple indulged in passion-arousing
Yes, we should be absolutely determined to avoid all forms of heavy petting on numerous occasions. The elders might
pornography! determine that even though these individuals did not manifest
a brazen attitude characterizing loose conduct, there was a
[Footnote] measure of greediness in their conduct. So the elders might
As to distinctions between uncleanness and fornication and take judicial action because gross uncleanness was involved.
loose conduct, see The Watchtower of July 15, 2006, Gross uncleanness might also be appropriate grounds for
pages 29-31. handling a case involving a person who repeatedly makes
sexually explicit telephone calls to another person, especially
[Blurb on page 30] if he was previously counseled about the matter.
A Christian caught up in badness should wake up and face his
need for spiritual help The elders need discernment in making such judgments.
To determine whether judicial action is warranted, they must
*** w06 7/15 pp. 30-31 Questions From Readers *** carefully look at what happened and the extent to which it
was done. It is not a matter of charging with loose conduct
Loose conduct (Greek, aselgeia) denotes anyone who does not accept Scriptural counsel; nor is it a
licentiousness; wantonness; shameless conduct; lewdness of case of deciding mathematically how many times a person
conduct. The New Thayers Greek-English Lexicon defines can commit a certain sinful act before judicial action is
the Greek term as unbridled lust, . . . outrageousness, required. Elders should carefully and prayerfully weigh each
shamelessness, insolence. According to another lexicon, situation and find out what occurred and how often, the
loose conduct is a form of behavior that violates all bounds nature and extent of the misconduct, and the intent and
of what is socially acceptable. motive of the wrongdoer.
As the foregoing definitions show, loose conduct Gross uncleanness entails more than sexual sins. For
involves two elements: (1) The conduct itself is a serious instance, a baptized boy might smoke a few cigarettes in a
violation of Gods laws, and (2) the attitude of the wrongdoer short period of time and confess this to his parents. He is
is disrespectful, insolent. determined not to smoke again. This is uncleanness, but it has
not escalated to the point of being gross uncleanness or
Therefore, loose conduct does not refer to bad conduct
uncleanness . . . with greediness. Scriptural counsel from
of a minor nature. It pertains to acts that are serious violations
an elder or two along with support from the boys parents
of Gods laws and that reflect a brazen or boldly
should suffice. But if the boy is a frequent user of tobacco,
contemptuous attitudea spirit that betrays disrespect or
this would be a deliberate defilement of the flesh, and a
even contempt for authority, laws, and standards. Paul links
judicial committee would be convened to consider this case
loose conduct with illicit intercourse. (Romans 13:13, 14)
of gross uncleanness. (2 Corinthians 7:1) If the boy is not
Since Galatians 5:19-21 lists loose conduct among a number
repentant, he would be disfellowshipped.
of sinful practices that would disqualify one from inheriting
Gods Kingdom, loose conduct is grounds for reproof and Some Christians have become involved in the viewing of
possible disfellowshipping from the Christian congregation. pornography. This is offensive to God, and the elders may be
shocked that a fellow believer has done this. But not all
Uncleanness (Greek, akatharsia) is the broadest of the
viewing of pornography calls for a hearing before a judicial
three terms rendered fornication, uncleanness, and loose
committee. For example, suppose a brother viewed so-called
conduct. It embraces impurity of any kindin sexual
soft-core pornography on several occasions. He is ashamed,
matters, in speech, in action, and in spiritual relationships.
confesses to an elder, and is determined not to repeat this sin.
Uncleanness covers a wide range of serious sins.
The elder might well conclude that the brothers conduct did
As recorded at 2 Corinthians 12:21, Paul refers to those not escalate to the point that he engaged in uncleanness . . .
who formerly sinned but have not repented over their with greediness; nor did he display a brazen attitude,
33
indicating loose conduct. Although no judicial action would Some teenagers send sexually explicit messages to flirt
be warranted, this type of uncleanness would call for strong with someone they like.
Scriptural counsel and perhaps follow-up help from the
elders. In other cases, a girl sends an explicit photo of herself
because she is pressured by a boy to do so.
However, suppose a Christian has secretly viewed
abhorrent, sexually degrading pornography for years and has Sometimes a boy will mass forward an explicit photo of a
done everything possible to conceal this sin. Such girl either to entertain his friends or to retaliate after a
pornography might feature gang rape, bondage, sadistic breakup.
torture, the brutalizing of women, or even child pornography. Whatever the cause, a teenager armed with a cell phone can
When others become aware of his conduct, he is deeply get into a lot of trouble. In the click of a button, says the
ashamed. He has not been brazen, but the elders may book CyberSafe, lives are changed forever.
determine that he has given himself over to this filthy habit
and has practiced uncleanness with greediness, that is, gross Many people fail to realize that once a photo goes into
uncleanness. A judicial committee would be formed because cyberspace, the sender loses control over how the photo will
gross uncleanness is involved. The wrongdoer would be be used. In one case, reports a bulletin from the U.S. Federal
disfellowshipped if he did not display godly repentance and Bureau of Investigation (FBI), an 18-year-old girl
the determination never to view pornography again. If he committed suicide after a nude photo she had transmitted via
invited others to his home to view pornographyin effect, her cell phone to her boyfriend also was sent to hundreds of
promoting ithe would give evidence of a brazen attitude teenagers in her school. Other students, who apparently
characterizing loose conduct. continued to forward the image, allegedly harassed the girl.

The Scriptural term loose conduct always involves Sexting also raises legal issues. In some places, for example,
serious sin, often sexual in nature. When trying to identify minors who have sent sexually explicit images to other
loose conduct, elders should look for brazenness, wantonness, minors have been charged with child-pornography offenses
filthiness, shamelessness, and what is shocking to public and have been required to register as sex offenders. As a
decency. On the other hand, serious transgressions of parent, you too can be held liable if your name is on the cell-
Jehovahs law that are committed by a person who does not phone contract or if you fail to take measures to prevent your
manifest a brazen attitude may involve greediness. These child from sexting.
cases have to be handled on the basis of the gross
WHAT YOU CAN DO
uncleanness that they involve.
Set clear rules. Although you cannot fully control your
Determining whether someone has gone far enough to be
teenagers cell-phone use, you can make sure that he or she
guilty of gross uncleanness or loose conduct is a serious
knows your rulesas well as the consequences for breaking
responsibility, for lives are involved. Those judging such
those rules. Remember, too, that as a parent, you have the
cases should do so prayerfully, asking God for his holy spirit,
right to monitor your teenagers cell phone.Bible principle:
discernment, and understanding. Elders need to maintain the
Ephesians 6:1.
purity of the congregation and must base their judgment on
Gods Word as well as on the direction of the faithful and Help your teenager to reason on the problem. You could
discreet slave. (Matthew 18:18; 24:45) And in these evil say: There are many opinions as to what constitutes sexting.
days, more than ever before, elders need to bear in mind the How would you define the term? What kinds of photos do
words: See what you are doing, because it is not for man you think are inappropriate? In some places the law
that you judge but it is for Jehovah.2 Chronicles 19:6. considers a minor who sends a nude photo of a minor to be
guilty of a crime. Do you think its that bad? Why would
*** g 11/13 pp. 4-5 How to Talk to Your Teen About sexting be morally wrong? Listen carefully to his or her
Sexting *** reasoning, and help your teenager to think beyond the send
HELP FOR THE FAMILY | PARENTING button.Bible principle: Hebrews 5:14.
How to Talk to Your Teen About Sexting
Present hypothetical scenarios. You could say to your
daughter: Suppose a girl is being pressured by a boy to
THE CHALLENGE
sext him. What should she do? Give in so that she does not
You have heard that sexting is common among young lose the friendship? Refuse the request but flirt with him
people. Would my teenager do that? you may wonder. anyway? End the relationship? Tell an adult? Help your
daughter to reason on the matter. Of course, you can use a
You want to discuss the matter with your childbut similar approach with a son.Bible principle: Galatians 6:7.
how? Before answering, consider why some young people
have become involved in sexting and why you should be Appeal to your teenagers sense of goodness. Ask questions
concerned. such as these: How important to you is a good reputation?
What traits do you want to be known for? How would you
WHY IT HAPPENS feel about yourself if you humiliated someone by forwarding
an inappropriate picture? How would you feel if you took a

34
stand for what is right? Help your teen to hold a good avoiding sinful acts. It meant the hating of bad.Proverbs
conscience.1 Peter 3:16. 8:13.
Set the example yourself. The Bible says that godly wisdom Lovingly, Jehovah laid down detailed laws so that the
is chaste and free from hypocrisy. (James 3:17) Do your nation of Israel could identify and avoid wrongdoing.
values reflect those words? We need to set good examples (Romans 7:7, 12) These laws included strict guidelines on
ourselves and not view images and Web sites that could be morality. Adultery, homosexual acts, incestuous relationships,
viewed as unsavory or illegal, says the book CyberSafe. and bestiality were all identified as unholy spiritual
pollutants. (Leviticus 18:23; 20:10-17) Those guilty of such
[Footnote] degraded acts were cut off from the nation of Israel.
Sexting refers to the act of sending sexually explicit When the congregation of anointed Christians became
messages, photos, or videos via cell phone. For more the Israel of God, similar moral standards were laid down
information, go to the jw.org Web site and read the online for them. (Galatians 6:16) Christians too were to abhor what
article Young People AskWhat Should I Know About is wicked. (Romans 12:9) Jehovahs words to Israel also
Sexting?Look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > applied to them: You must be holy, because I am holy.
TEENAGERS. (1 Peter 1:15, 16) Such unholy practices as fornication,
[Blurb on page 5] adultery, homosexual acts, bestiality, and incest were not to
Think beyond the send button corrupt the Christian congregation. Those refusing to stop
engaging in such things would be excluded from Gods
[Box on page 5] Kingdom. (Romans 1:26, 27; 2:22; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10;
KEY SCRIPTURES Hebrews 13:4) In these last days, the same standards apply
Children, be obedient to your parents.Ephesians 6:1. to the other sheep. (2 Timothy 3:1; John 10:16) As a result,
anointed Christians and other sheep make up a clean and
Mature people . . . have their perceptive powers trained to
wholesome people, able to carry the name of their God as
distinguish both right and wrong.Hebrews 5:14.
Jehovahs Witnesses.Isaiah 43:10.
Whatever a man is sowing, this he will also reap.
Keeping the Congregation Clean
Galatians 6:7.
In contrast, the world condones all kinds of immorality.
[Box on page 5]
Although true Christians are different, they should not forget
SUGGESTION
that many who now serve Jehovah were once in the world.
If talking about sexting will be awkward for you or your teen,
There are many who, before they knew our holy God, saw no
you might try this approach:
reason not to indulge the desires and fantasies of their fallen
First, have your teen talk about what others are doing. Then
flesh, wallowing in a low sink of debauchery. (1 Peter 4:4)
say: Ive heard a lot about sexting. Is this practice
The apostle Paul, after describing the disgusting practices of
common?
degraded people of the nations, said: That is what some of
Next, find out how he or she feels about what others are
you were. Still, he went on to say: But you have been
doing. You could ask: Do you think people grasp the
washed clean, but you have been sanctified, but you have
consequences of sexting?
been declared righteous in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
Then, discuss what your teenager would do. Respond by
and with the spirit of our God.1 Corinthians 6:11.
saying: Lets talk about what you should do if you receive
an explicit text. What a comforting statement that is! Whatever a person
Tip: You could use a news report to start a discussion. For did earlier in life, he changes when the glorious good news
example: I read about a girl whose explicit photo was about the Christ has an effect on his heart. He exercises faith
forwarded all over her school. Does this kind of thing really and dedicates himself to Jehovah God. From then on he lives
happen? a morally pure life, washed clean in Gods eyes. (Hebrews
9:14) The sins that he committed previously are pardoned,
(Romans 12:9) Let your love be without hypocrisy.
and he can stretch forward to the things ahead.Philippians
Abhor what is wicked; cling to what is good.
3:13, 14; Romans 4:7, 8.
*** w97 1/1 pp. 26-29 Let Us Abhor What Is Wicked *** Jehovah forgave repentant David for murder and
Let Us Abhor What Is Wicked adultery, and He forgave repentant Manasseh for immoral
idolatry and much bloodshed. (2 Samuel 12:9, 13;
JEHOVAH is a holy God. In ancient times he was the 2 Chronicles 33:2-6, 10-13) We can be truly grateful that he
Holy One of Israel, and as such he demanded that Israel be is prepared to forgive us too if we repent and approach him in
clean, unsullied. (Psalm 89:18) He told his chosen people: sincerity and humility. Still, despite Jehovahs forgiving
You must prove yourselves holy, because I am holy. David and Manasseh, these two menand Israel with them
(Leviticus 11:45) Anyone who wanted to ascend into the had to live with the consequences of their sinful acts.
mountain of Jehovah had to be innocent in his hands and (2 Samuel 12:11, 12; Jeremiah 15:3-5) In a similar way, while
clean in heart. (Psalm 24:3, 4) That meant more than merely Jehovah forgives repentant sinners, there may be
consequences of their actions that cannot be avoided.

35
Inevitable Consequences sacrifice, the man was cleansed of his sin. Similar things may
happen today. Again, though, even if a baptized person who
For example, a man who lives a life of immoral commits a serious sin repents and is forgiven in Jehovahs
debauchery and contracts AIDS may accept the truth and turn eyes, there may still be ongoing consequences of his sin.
his life around to the point of dedication and baptism. Now he Proverbs 10:16, 17; Galatians 6:7.
is a spiritually clean Christian having a relationship with God
and a wonderful hope for the future; but he still has AIDS. He For example, if a dedicated girl commits fornication, she
may eventually die of the disease, a sad but inescapable may bitterly regret her act and eventually be restored to
consequence of his former conduct. For some Christians the spiritual health with the help of the congregation. But what if
effects of former gross immorality may persist in other ways. she is pregnant because of her immorality? Then her whole
For years after their baptism, perhaps for the rest of their lives life has been inescapably changed by what she did. A man
in this system of things, they may have to fight urges in their who commits adultery may repent and not be
flesh to return to their previous immoral life-style. With the disfellowshipped. But his innocent mate has Scriptural
help of Jehovahs spirit, many succeed in resisting. But they grounds to divorce him, and she may choose to do so.
have to wage a constant battle.Galatians 5:16, 17. (Matthew 19:9) If she does, the man, although forgiven by
Jehovah, will live the rest of his life with this grave
Such ones do not sin as long as they control their urges. consequence of his sin.1 John 1:9.
But if they are men, they may wisely decide not to reach out
for responsibility in the congregation while still having to What of a man who unlovingly divorces his wife in order
struggle with powerful fleshly impulses. (1 Timothy 3:1) to marry another woman? Perhaps he will eventually repent
Why? Because they know the trust that the congregation puts and be reinstated in the congregation. Over the years he may
in the elders. (Isaiah 32:1, 2; Hebrews 13:17) They realize make progress and press on to maturity. (Hebrews 6:1) But
that the elders are consulted on many intimate matters and as long as his first wife lives without a mate, he will not
have to handle sensitive situations. It would be neither loving, qualify to serve in a responsible position in the congregation.
wise, nor reasonable for one waging a constant fight with He is not a husband of one wife because he had no
unclean fleshly desires to reach out for such a responsible Scriptural right to divorce his first wife.1 Timothy 3:2, 12.
position.Proverbs 14:16; John 15:12, 13; Romans 12:1.
Are these not powerful reasons why a Christian should
For a man who was a child molester before he was cultivate an abhorrence of what is wicked?
baptized, there may be another consequence. When he learns
the truth, he repents and turns around, not bringing that cruel What of a Child Molester?
sin into the congregation. He may thereafter make fine What if a baptized adult Christian sexually molests a
progress, completely overcome his wrong impulses, and even child? Is the sinner so wicked that Jehovah will never forgive
be inclined to reach out for a responsible position in the him? Not necessarily so. Jesus said that blasphemy against
congregation. What, though, if he still has to live down the holy spirit was unforgivable. And Paul said that there is
notoriety in the community as a former child molester? no sacrifice for sins left for one who practices sin willfully
Would he be irreprehensible, . . . have a fine testimony from despite knowing the truth. (Luke 12:10; Hebrews 10:26, 27)
people on the outside, . . . [be] free from accusation? But nowhere does the Bible say that an adult Christian who
(1 Timothy 3:1-7, 10; Titus 1:7) No, he would not. Hence, he sexually abuses a childwhether incestuously or otherwise
would not qualify for congregation privileges. cannot be forgiven. Indeed, his sins can be washed clean if
When a Dedicated Christian Sins he repents sincerely from the heart and turns his conduct
around. However, he may still have to struggle with the
Jehovah understands that we are weak and that even after wrong fleshly impulses he cultivated. (Ephesians 1:7) And
baptism we may fall into sin. The apostle John wrote to there may be consequences that he cannot avoid.
Christians of his day: I am writing you these things that you
may not commit a sin. And yet, if anyone does commit a sin, Depending on the law of the land where he lives, the
we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous molester may well have to serve a prison term or face other
one. And he is a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins, yet not for sanctions from the State. The congregation will not protect
ours only but also for the whole worlds. (1 John 2:1, 2) Yes, him from this. Moreover, the man has revealed a serious
on the basis of Jesus sacrifice, Jehovah will forgive baptized weakness that henceforth will have to be taken into account.
Christians who fall into sinif they truly repent and abandon If he seems to be repentant, he will be encouraged to make
their wrong course. spiritual progress, share in the field service, even have parts
in the Theocratic Ministry School and nonteaching parts in
An example of this was seen in the first-century the Service Meeting. This does not mean, though, that he will
congregation at Corinth. The apostle Paul heard of a case of qualify to serve in a position of responsibility in the
incestuous fornication in that young congregation, and he congregation. What are the Scriptural reasons for this?
gave instructions that the man involved be disfellowshipped.
Later, the sinner repented, and Paul exhorted the For one thing, an elder must be self-controlled. (Titus
congregation to reinstate him. (1 Corinthians 5:1, 13; 1:8) True, none of us have perfect self-control. (Romans
2 Corinthians 2:5-9) Thus, by the healing power of Jehovahs 7:21-25) But a dedicated adult Christian who falls into the sin
loving kindness and the great value of Jesus ransom of child sexual abuse reveals an unnatural fleshly weakness.
Experience has shown that such an adult may well molest
36
other children. True, not every child molester repeats the sin, peace as your overseers And righteousness as your task
but many do. And the congregation cannot read hearts to tell assigners.
who is and who is not liable to molest children again.
(Jeremiah 17:9) Hence, Pauls counsel to Timothy applies *** w06 2/15 pp. 26-28 pars. 1-12 Walking in the Path of
with special force in the case of baptized adults who have Increasing Light ***
molested children: Never lay your hands hastily upon any
man; neither be a sharer in the sins of others. (1 Timothy WHO can better describe the effect that the rising sun has
5:22) For the protection of our children, a man known to have on the darkness of the night than the very Source of light,
been a child molester does not qualify for a responsible Jehovah God? (Psalm 36:9) When the morning light takes
position in the congregation. Moreover, he cannot be a hold on the ends of the earth, God says, the earth transforms
pioneer or serve in any other special, full-time service. itself like clay under a seal, and things take their station as in
Compare the principle at Exodus 21:28, 29. clothing. (Job 38:12-14) With increasing light from the sun,
earths features take shape and become clearer, just as soft
Some may ask, Have not some committed other types of clay undergoes a transformation upon receiving an imprint
sin and apparently repented, only to repeat their sin later? from an emblem on a seal.
Yes, that has happened, but there are other factors to consider. 2
If, for example, an individual makes immoral advances to Jehovah is also the Source of spiritual light. (Psalm
another adult, the adult should be able to resist his or her 43:3) While the world remains in dense darkness, the true
advances. Children are much easier to deceive, confuse, or God continues to shed light upon his people. With what
terrorize. The Bible speaks of a childs lack of wisdom. result? The Bible answers: The path of the righteous ones is
(Proverbs 22:15; 1 Corinthians 13:11) Jesus used children as like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the
an example of humble innocence. (Matthew 18:4; Luke day is firmly established. (Proverbs 4:18) Increasing light
18:16, 17) The innocence of a child includes a complete lack from Jehovah continues to illuminate the path of his people.
of experience. Most children are open, eager to please, and It refines them organizationally, doctrinally, and morally.
thus vulnerable to abuse by a scheming adult whom they Enlightenment Leads to Organizational Refinements
know and trust. Therefore, the congregation has a
3
responsibility before Jehovah to protect its children. Through the prophet Isaiah, Jehovah foretold: Instead
of the copper I shall bring in gold, and instead of the iron I
Well-trained children learn to obey and honor their shall bring in silver, and instead of the wood, copper, and
parents, the elders, and other adults. (Ephesians 6:1, 2; instead of the stones, iron. (Isaiah 60:17) Just as replacing an
1 Timothy 5:1, 2; Hebrews 13:7) It would be a shocking inferior material with a superior one denotes improvement,
perversion if one of these authority figures were to misuse Jehovahs Witnesses have experienced improvements in their
that childs innocent trust so as to seduce or force him or her organizational arrangements all through the conclusion of
to submit to sexual acts. Those who have been sexually the system of things, or the last days.Matthew 24:3;
molested in this way often struggle for years to overcome the 2 Timothy 3:1.
resulting emotional trauma. Hence, a child molester is subject
4
to severe congregational discipline and restrictions. It is not In the early part of the last days, the congregations of
his status as an authority figure that should be of concern but, Bible Students, as Jehovahs Witnesses were then known,
rather, the unblemished purity of the congregation. democratically elected their elders and deacons. Some elders,
1 Corinthians 5:6; 2 Peter 3:14. however, did not have the genuine spirit of evangelizing.
Some not only were reluctant to participate in the preaching
If a child molester sincerely repents, he will recognize work themselves but also discouraged others from sharing in
the wisdom of applying Bible principles. If he truly learns to it. So in 1919 a new office was instituted in each
abhor what is wicked, he will despise what he did and congregationthat of a service director. The service director
struggle to avoid repeating his sin. (Proverbs 8:13; Romans was not elected by the congregation but was appointed
12:9) Further, he will surely thank Jehovah for the greatness theocratically to his position by the branch office of Gods
of His love, as a result of which a repentant sinner, such as he people. The responsibilities of the appointed director included
is, can still worship our holy God and hope to be among the organizing the preaching work, assigning territories, and
upright who will reside on earth forever.Proverbs 2:21. encouraging participation in the field ministry. During the
[Footnote] years that followed, the Kingdom-preaching work received a
tremendous stimulus.
See Questions From Readers in the May 1, 1996, issue of 5
The Watchtower. All in the congregation were further invigorated by the
exhortation Advertise, advertise, advertise, the King and his
[Blurb on page 28] kingdom, given in 1922 at the Bible Students convention at
While Jehovah forgives repentant sinners, there may be Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. By 1927 field service was
consequences of their actions that cannot be avoided organized to the point that Sunday was designated as the most
suitable day for participating in the house-to-house preaching
(Isaiah 60:17) Instead of the copper I will bring in gold, And work. Why that day? Because Sunday was the day when most
instead of the iron I will bring in silver, Instead of the wood, people were off work. Jehovahs Witnesses today manifest
copper, And instead of the stones, iron; And I will appoint the same spirit by endeavoring to call on people at times

37
11
when they are most likely to be at home, such as on The year 1992 saw still another refinement, one that is
weekends and in the evenings. comparable to what happened after the Israelites and others
6
returned from exile in Babylon. Back at that time, there were
A great impetus to the Kingdom-proclamation work not a sufficient number of Levites to care for temple service.
came on Sunday afternoon, July 26, 1931, when a resolution So non-Israelite Nethinim were given more to do in helping
was adopted, first at a convention in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., the Levites. Accordingly, to assist the faithful and discreet
and thereafter around the world. In part, the resolution stated: slave class in caring for its increasing earthly interests, in
We are servants of Jehovah God commissioned to do a work 1992 some of the other sheep received added service
in his name, and, in obedience to his commandment, to responsibilities. They were appointed as helpers to the
deliver the testimony of Jesus Christ, and to make known to Governing Body committees.John 10:16.
the people that Jehovah is the true and Almighty God;
12
therefore we joyfully embrace and take the name which the What has resulted from all of this? I will appoint
mouth of the Lord God has named, and we desire to be peace as your overseers and righteousness as your task
known as and called by the name, to wit, Jehovahs assigners, says Jehovah. (Isaiah 60:17) There is peace
witnesses. (Isaiah 43:10) How clearly that new name among Jehovahs servants today, and love of righteousness
defined the primary activity of all of those bearing that name! has become their task assignerthe force that impels them
Yes, Jehovah had work for all his servants to share in. The to serve God. They are well-organized to carry out the
overall response was enthusiastic indeed! Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work.Matthew
7
24:14; 28:19, 20.
Many elders humbly devoted themselves to the
preaching work. In some places, though, elected elders put up
considerable resistance to the idea that everyone in the *** w95 5/15 pp. 22-23 pars. 6-11 Part 2Flashes of Light
congregation should participate in the public ministry. Great and Small ***
However, further improvements were in sight. In 1932 the 6
congregations received instruction through The Watchtower There was the question of who should serve as elders
to discontinue the electing of elders and deacons. Instead, and deacons in the congregations. To get away from the
they were to elect a service committee composed of spiritual hierarchical structure prevalent in Christendom, it was
men who participated in the public preaching work. concluded that these should be elected democratically by the
Oversight was thus entrusted to those who actively shared in vote of the members of each congregation. But increasing
the ministry, and the work moved ahead. light contained in The Watchtower of September 1 and of
October 15, 1932, showed that the Scriptures do not provide
Increased Light Means Further Improvements for elective elders. So these were replaced by a service
8
committee, and a service director was chosen by the Society.
The light was getting lighter and lighter. In 1938 the
7
use of elections was eliminated altogether. All servants in the The Watchtower of June 1 and of June 15, 1938,
congregation were to be appointed theocratically under the contained flashes of light showing that the servants in the
oversight of the faithful and discreet slave. (Matthew congregation were to be, not elected, but appointed, that is,
24:45-47) The change was readily accepted by practically all appointed theocratically. In 1971 another flash of light
the congregations of Jehovahs Witnesses, and the work of showed that each congregation was not to be directed by just
witnessing continued to bear fruit. one congregation servant. Rather, each should have a body of
9
elders, or overseers, assigned by the Governing Body of
Beginning October 1, 1972, another adjustment in Jehovahs Witnesses. So by the increasing light over some 40
congregational oversight became effective. The arrangement years, it became evident that elders as well as deacons, now
of oversight by a body of elders was instituted in the known as ministerial servants, should be appointed by the
congregations of Jehovahs Witnesses worldwide, replacing faithful and discreet slave, through its Governing Body.
oversight by just one congregation servant, or overseer. This (Matthew 24:45-47) This was in line with what took place in
new arrangement has provided tremendous encouragement apostolic times. Men such as Timothy and Titus were
for mature men to qualify to take the lead in the congregation. appointed as overseers by the first-century governing body.
(1 Timothy 3:1-7) As a result, a greater number of brothers (1 Timothy 3:1-7; 5:22; Titus 1:5-9) All of this is in striking
have gained experience in caring for congregational fulfillment of Isaiah 60:17: Instead of the copper I shall
responsibilities. How valuable they have proved to be in bring in gold, and instead of the iron I shall bring in silver,
shepherding the many new ones who have accepted Bible and instead of the wood, copper, and instead of the stones,
truth! iron; and I will appoint peace as your overseers and
10
The members of the Governing Body were organized righteousness as your task assigners.
into six committees, and starting on January 1, 1976, all the 8
There was also the matter of the operation of the Watch
activities of the organization and of the congregations around Tower Society. For many years the Governing Body of
the earth came under the supervision of these committees. Jehovahs Witnesses was synonymous with the board of
What a blessing it has proved to be to have all aspects of the directors of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of
Kingdom work directed by a multitude of counselors! Pennsylvania, and matters were largely in the hands of its
Proverbs 15:22; 24:6. president. As shown in the 1977 Yearbook of Jehovahs
Witnesses (pages 258-9), in 1976 the Governing Body began
38
to function with six committees, each assigned to care for Nothing is more important to me than my children. I want
certain aspects of the worldwide work. The Personnel them to grow up to be adults I can be proud of
Committee deals with personnel matters, including the THE BIBLE SAYS:
interests of all who serve in the worldwide Bethel family. The Train a boy in the way he should go; even when he grows
Publishing Committee handles all secular and legal matters, old he will not depart from it.Proverbs 22:6.
such as property and printing. The Service Committee USEFUL FEATURES OF THE WEB SITE
concerns itself with the witness work and supervises traveling The Children section contains illustrated Bible stories,
overseers, pioneers, and the activities of congregation picture activities, videos, and Bible lessons that can help you
publishers. The Teaching Committee is responsible for teach your children to . . .
congregation meetings, special assembly days, circuit be obedient
assemblies, and district and international conventions as well show kindness
as the various schools for the spiritual education of Gods get along with each other
people. The Writing Committee supervises the preparation learn to say thank you
and translation of publications in all forms, making sure that (Look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > CHILDREN)
everything is in line with the Scriptures. The Chairmans My Book of Bible Stories and Learn From the Great
Committee cares for emergencies and other urgent matters. Teacher are beautifully illustrated books designed for you to
Also in the 1970s, branch offices of the Watch Tower Society read with your children.
began to be directed by a committee instead of an overseer. (Look under PUBLICATIONS > BOOKS & BROCHURES)
FOR TEENAGERS
Id like some tips for dealing with issues like school, my
G 1/14 pp. 2-6 parents, my friends, and the opposite sex. Im not a child
http://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/g201 anymore, so I dont want to be lectured
401/unique-website/ THE BIBLE SAYS:
READ the Bible in about 50 languages and Bible-based Let your heart be glad in the days of your youth.
content in more than 500 languages. Ecclesiastes 11:9.
VIEW content in nearly 70 sign languages. USEFUL FEATURES OF THE WEB SITE
NAVIGATE the site in hundreds of languages.
LISTEN to audio dramas depicting exciting events in the The Teenagers section has articles and videos that can help
Bible. you . . .
SEE Bible events come to life in the form of illustrated if you are lonely
stories. if you have problems at school
WATCH Bible dramas and videos that will help you to face if you have broken a house rule
lifes challenges. if you are being bullied or sexually harassed
DOWNLOAD e-books, magazine articles, and audio files, (Look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > TEENAGERS)
every one of them free. Volumes 1 and 2 of Questions Young People AskAnswers
RESEARCH a variety of topics using Watchtower ONLINE That Work tackle 77 important frequently asked questions.
LIBRARYthe gateway to a wealth of information, (Look under PUBLICATIONS > BOOKS & BROCHURES)
available in over 100 languages. FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO LEARN ABOUT THE
FOR COUPLES BIBLE
I want my family to succeed. My wife and I have gone Id like to understand the Bible. Where can I start?
through a rough patch lately, especially since we had THE BIBLE SAYS:
children. We could use some help All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for
THE BIBLE SAYS: teaching.2 Timothy 3:16.
By wisdom a house is built up, and by discernment it is USEFUL FEATURES OF THE WEB SITE
made secure.Proverbs 24:3. The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures is an
USEFUL FEATURES OF THE WEB SITE accurate and easy-to-read translation of the Bible.
The Couples & Parents section can help you to meet (Look under PUBLICATIONS > BIBLE)
challenges such as these: The Bible Questions Answered section gives pointed
Surviving the first year of marriage answers to questions ranging from Why did God allow the
Dealing with in-laws Holocaust to happen? to When was Jesus born?
Disciplining children (Look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > BIBLE QUESTIONS
Arguing ANSWERED)
Dealing with money problems The Request a Free Bible Study page lets you take
(Look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > COUPLES & advantage of our free Bible study course.
PARENTS) (Click on the Request a Bible Study link on the home page)
The Secret of Family Happiness is a book that covers a I gave up reading the Bible because I couldnt understand it.
wide range of family topics, from preparing for marriage But when I studied it using the book What Does the Bible
while you are single to caring for elderly parents. Really Teach? I was amazed at how simple and clear the
(Look under PUBLICATIONS > BOOKS & BROCHURES) Bible is.Christina.
FOR PARENTS
39
*** km 10/13 p. 2 Use Our Web Site to Teach Your people. Our site gives Internet users truthful answers to Bible
Children *** questions. It introduces them to Jehovahs organization and
Use Our Web Site to Teach Your Children makes it easy for them to request a free home Bible study. It
enables the good news to penetrate areas of the earth where
1
Our Web site, jw.org, is designed to appeal to people of people have few opportunities to hear the Kingdom message.
all ages. The section of the Web site entitled Children (go All the Nations: In order to give a witness to all the
to Bible Teachings > Children) helps young children and their nations, we must present Bible truth in different languages.
parents to draw close to one another and to Jehovah. (Deut. Visitors to jw.org can easily find information in about 400
6:6, 7) How can you use this section to teach your children? languages, more than any other Web site.
2
Be Adaptable: Each child has unique needs. (1 Cor. Make Good Use of It: The redesigned jw.org Web site is
13:11) How, then, can you select age-appropriate material to not just for the purpose of witnessing to unbelievers. It has
study with your children? Ask yourself: What will capture been designed for use by Jehovahs Witnesses too. If you
my childrens interest? How much will they understand? How have access to the Internet, we encourage you to get
long is their attention span? With children who are three acquainted with jw.org. The following are some suggestions
years of age or younger, you might discuss the stories found on how to use it.
under My Bible Lessons. Other families enjoy the Bible Our Official Web SiteUse It for Personal and Family
stories in the section Teach Your Children. Also, consider Study
the following options.
3
Family Worship Projects: These projects are tools to Read the Latest Magazine Online: Read The
help family heads study with their children. To learn how to Watchtower and Awake! online several weeks before
use the stories and activities, click the download button, and receiving the printed copies in the congregation. Listen to
read the Parents Guide for each project. Use picture audio recordings of a magazine.Go to
activities, such as coloring pages, to teach younger children. Publications/Magazines.
Help older children to complete the study activities. All the
activities in each project relate to the same Bible story or Read Material That Appears Only on the Web Site:
lesson, so children of all ages can participate in the same Some material, such as For Young People, My Bible
family worship project. Lessons, For Family Review, and Young People Ask,
now appears only on our Web site. Go online and consider
4
Become Jehovahs Friend: The videos, songs, and some of this material during your personal and family study.
activities in this section of our Web site help parents to Go to Bible Teachings/Children or Bible
inculcate Gods Word into their little children. (Deut. 31:12) Teachings/Teenagers.
Each short animated video teaches an important lesson.
Activities such as search-and-find games underscore those Get the Latest News: Read encouraging reports and
lessons. Since children often like to singand songs help experiences, and watch video clips that highlight the progress
children to remember what they have learnedKingdom of our work around the world. Reports on disasters and
songs and songs written especially for children are posted persecution can help us to be specific in our prayers for the
regularly. affected brothers. (Jas. 5:16)Go to News.
5
Parents, Jehovah wants you to be successful mothers Do Research Using Online Library: If this feature is
and fathers. So ask him to help you teach your children the available in your language, use a computer or a mobile device
truth. (Judg. 13:8) With Jehovahs support, you can train your to read the daily text online or to do research in some of our
children to become wise for salvation through the faith in recent publications.Go to Publications/Online Library, or
connection with Christ Jesus.2 Tim. 3:15; Prov. 4:1-4. type www.wol.jw.org in the address field of your browser.
Our Official Web SiteUse It in Your Ministry

*** km 12/12 p. 3 Our Official Web SiteDesigned to Direct People to the Web Site: Some who hesitate to
Benefit Us and Others *** converse with us or accept literature are willing to investigate
Our Official Web SiteDesigned to Benefit Us and Jehovahs Witnesses by looking at jw.org in the privacy of
Others their home. So publicize the Web site at every appropriate
opportunity.
Jesus commissioned us to preach the good news of the
Kingdom in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the Answer Questions: At times a householder, an interested
nations. (Matt. 24:14) In order to help us fully accomplish person, or an acquaintance will ask a question about
our ministry, watchtower.org, jw-media.org, and jw.org have Jehovahs Witnesses or our beliefs. Show him the answer on
been combined into the redesigned jw.org Web site.2 Tim. the spot, using a mobile device or a computer. It is often best
4:5. to read the cited scriptures directly from the Bible. If you do
not have ready access to the Internet, explain how the person
All the Inhabited Earth: About one third of the can use jw.org to find the answer himself.Go to Bible
earths population uses the Internet. It has become the Teachings/Bible Questions Answered or About
primary source of information for many, especially young Us/Frequently Asked Questions.
40
Send an Article or a Publication to Someone You learn from the way that Israel regarded the pillar of fire and
Know: Attach a downloaded PDF or an EPUB to an e-mail. cloud?Ex. 14:24.
Or download an audio version of a publication onto a CD.
Each time you give someone who is not baptized a complete Gods Word reveals the source and the purpose of the
electronic book, brochure, or magazine, you may count it as a pillar, stating: Jehovah was going ahead of them in the
placement. Material should not be sent anonymously or in daytime in a pillar of cloud to lead them by the way, and in
bulk. Neither should it be uploaded to any other Internet Web the nighttime in a pillar of fire to give them light to go in the
site.Go to Publications. daytime and nighttime. (Ex. 13:21, 22) Jehovah God used
the pillar of fire and cloud to guide his people out of Egypt
Show the Latest News About Jehovahs Witnesses: and through the wilderness. They had to be ready to move in
This will help Bible students and others you are calling on to order to follow it. When the pursuing Egyptian forces were
develop appreciation for the worldwide scope of our work about to attack Gods people, the pillar moved between the
and our Christian unity. (Ps. 133:1)Go to News. two groups, protecting the Israelites. (Ex. 14:19, 20) Though
Our Official Web SiteUse It to Help Someone Who the pillar did not indicate the most direct route, following its
Speaks a Different Language lead was the only way for Israel to get to the Promised Land.
The presence of the pillar assured Gods people that
Show Him Our Web Site: Demonstrate how he can use Jehovah was with them. It represented Jehovah, and at times
the Site Language list to see the Web site in his language. he spoke out of it. (Num. 14:14; Ps. 99:7) Further, the cloud
(In some languages, only a portion of the site is available.) identified Moses as the one appointed by Jehovah to lead the
Show Him a Web Page in His Language: Display a nation. (Ex. 33:9) Likewise, the last recorded appearance of
page from one of our publications, such as the Bible Teach the cloud confirmed Jehovahs appointment of Joshua as
book or the Know the Truth tract. Choose the householders Moses successor. (Deut. 31:14, 15) Indeed, the successful
language from the Read In list. outcome of the Exodus depended on the Israelites discerning
the evidence of Gods guidance and then following it.
Let Him Listen to an Article: Find an article for which
there is an audio track in the persons language, and play it
for him. If you are learning another language, improve your They Lost Sight of the Evidence
skill by listening to an audio track in that language as you
read.Go to Publications/Books and Brochures or When the Israelites saw that pillar for the first time, they
Publications/Magazines. must have been awestruck. Sadly, though, that constantly
present miracle did not impress the Israelites enough to fill
Witness to the Deaf: If you find a deaf person, play a them with lasting confidence in Jehovah. They challenged
sign-language video of a chapter from the Bible, a book, a Gods guidance several times. When the Egyptian army
brochure, or a tract.Go to Publications/Sign Language. pursued them, they showed no trust in Jehovahs saving
power. Instead, they accused Gods servant Moses of having
Page 23 Unit 3(a) led them toward their death. (Ex. 14:10-12) After their
deliverance through the Red Sea, they murmured against
Personally Keeping Pace Moses, Aaron, and Jehovah because of the presumed lack of
food and water. (Ex. 15:22-24; 16:1-3; 17:1-3, 7) And some
(Isaiah 48:17,18) This is what Jehovah says, your
weeks after that, they pressured Aaron into making a golden
Repurchaser, the Holy One of Israel: I, Jehovah, am your
calf. Just imagine! In one section of their camp, the Israelites
God, The One teaching you to benefit yourself, The One
saw the pillar of fire and cloudthe majestic evidence of the
guiding you in the way you should walk. 18 If only you would
One who had led them out of Egyptand not far from there,
pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would
they began worshipping a lifeless idol, saying: This is your
become just like a river And your righteousness like the
God, O Israel, who led you up out of the land of Egypt.
waves of the sea.
What great acts of disrespect!Ex. 32:4; Neh. 9:18.
(Exodus 14:24) During the morning watch, Jehovah looked
at the camp of the Egyptians from within the pillar of fire and Israels rebellious acts demonstrated striking disregard
cloud, and he threw the camp of the Egyptians into confusion. for Jehovahs guidance. The problem was not with their
physical sight but with their spiritual outlook. They saw the
*** w11 4/15 pp. 3-5 Do You Discern the Evidence of pillar, but they no longer appreciated its meaning. Though
Gods Guidance? *** their actions pained even the Holy One of Israel, Jehovah
Do You Discern the Evidence of Gods Guidance? mercifully kept on providing guidance by means of the pillar
until Israel reached the Promised Land.Ps. 78:40-42, 52-
54; Neh. 9:19.
NEITHER the Israelites nor the Egyptians had seen
anything like it before. As the Israelites made their Exodus See the Evidence of Divine Guidance Today
from Egypt, a pillar of cloud hovered near them and stayed
with them day in and day out. At night it became a pillar of Similarly in modern times, Jehovah has never left his
fire. How awe-inspiring! But where did it come from? What people without clear guidance. Just as he did not expect the
was its purpose? And what can we, some 3,500 years later, Israelites to scout out their own route, we today are not asked
41
to find the way into the promised new world on our own. Of course, those taking the lead in the earthly part of
Jesus Christ is the assigned Leader of the congregation. Gods organization are not perfectbut neither was Moses.
(Matt. 23:10; Eph. 5:23) He has delegated some authority to a Even so, the pillar provided constant evidence of his divine
faithful slave class, made up of faithful spirit-anointed appointment and of Gods approval. Note, too, that it was not
Christians. That slave class, in turn, appoints overseers in the for each Israelite to determine when to start moving. Instead,
Christian congregation.Matt. 24:45-47; Titus 1:5-9. the people acted at the order of Jehovah by means of
Moses. (Num. 9:23) Thus Moses, Gods channel of
How can we be sure of the identity of that faithful slave, direction, likely gave the signal to move.
or steward, class? Notice how Jesus himself describes it:
Who really is the faithful steward, the discreet one, whom Today, Jehovahs steward class gives a clear signal
his master will appoint over his body of attendants to keep whenever it is time to make a move. How does the steward
giving them their measure of food supplies at the proper do that? By means of articles in The Watchtower and Our
time? Happy is that slave, if his master on arriving finds him Kingdom Ministry, new publications, and talks at assemblies
doing so!Luke 12:42, 43. and conventions. Instructions are also conveyed to the
congregations through traveling overseers or through letters
Hence, the steward class is faithful, never betraying or or training sessions attended by brothers having congregation
abandoning Jehovah, Jesus, Bible truths, or Gods people. responsibilities.
Being discreet, the steward class shows good judgment in
directing the all-important work of preaching the good news Do you clearly discern the evidence of divine guidance?
of the kingdom and making disciples of people of all the Jehovah uses his organization to guide us, his people, through
nations. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) At the proper time, the the wilderness during these last days of Satans wicked
steward class obediently distributes spiritual food that is world. As a result, we enjoy unity, love, and security.
wholesome and nourishing. Jehovahs approval is seen in
how he blesses his people with increase, guidance in After Israel reached the Promised Land, Joshua said:
important decisions, better comprehension of Bible truths, You well know with all your hearts and with all your souls
safeguards against annihilation at the hands of their enemies, that not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your
and peace of mind and heart.Isa. 54:17; Phil. 4:7. God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true
for you. (Josh. 23:14) Likewise, Gods people today will
Respond to Gods Guidance without fail reach the promised new world. However,
whether we personally will be there depends to no small
How can we show that we appreciate Gods guidance? degree on our humble willingness to follow Gods direction.
The apostle Paul said: Be obedient to those who are taking Therefore, may we all keep on discerning the evidence of
the lead among you and be submissive. (Heb. 13:17) Doing Jehovahs guidance!
so may not always be easy. To illustrate: Put yourself in the (Isaiah 6:1-4) In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw
place of an Israelite in Moses day. Imagine that after you Jehovah sitting on a lofty and elevated throne, and the skirts
have been walking for some time, the pillar comes to a halt. of his robe filled the temple. 2 Seraphs were standing above
How long will it stay there? A day? A week? Several months? him; each had six wings. Each covered his face with two and
You wonder, Is it worth unpacking all my possessions? covered his feet with two, and each of them would fly about
First, you may unpack only the most necessary items. Yet, with two. 3 And one called to the other: Holy, holy, holy is
after a few days, frustrated at searching through your Jehovah of armies. The whole earth is filled with his glory.
belongings, you begin to unpack everything. But then, just 4
And the pivots of the thresholds quivered at the sound of the
when you have about finished unpacking, you see the pillar shouting, and the house was filled with smoke.
liftingand you have to start packing again! That would not
be so easy or convenient. Still, the Israelites had to pull (Ezekiel 1:4-14) As I was looking, I saw a tempestuous wind
away right afterward.Num. 9:17-22. coming from the north, and there was a huge cloud and
flashing fire surrounded by a bright light, and from the midst
How, then, do we react when we receive divine of the fire was something that looked like electrum. 5 Within
direction? Do we try to apply it right afterward? Or do we it were what looked like four living creatures, and the
continue doing things just as we have been accustomed to appearance of each one was like that of a human. 6 Each one
doing them? Are we familiar with up-to-date directions, such had four faces and four wings. 7 Their feet were straight, and
as those regarding conducting home Bible studies, preaching the soles of their feet were like those of a calf, and they were
to foreign-speaking people, regularly sharing in family shining like the glow of burnished copper. 8 They had human
worship, cooperating with Hospital Liaison Committees, and hands under their wings on all four sides, and the four of
conducting ourselves properly at conventions? We also show them had faces and wings. 9 Their wings were touching one
our appreciation for Gods guidance by accepting counsel. another. They would not turn when they went; they would
When faced with far-reaching decisions, we do not trust in each go straight forward. 10 Their faces had this appearance:
our own wisdom but look to Jehovah and his organization for Each of the four had a mans face with a lions face on the
guidance. And just as a child seeks his parents protection right, a bulls face on the left, and each of the four had an
when a storm rages, we seek protection in Jehovahs eagles face. 11 That is how their faces were. Their wings were
organization when, like a thunderstorm, the problems of this spread out above them. Each had two wings that were
world strike us. touching one another and two wings covering their bodies.
12
They would each go straight forward, going wherever the
42
spirit would incline them to go. They would not turn as they eyes all around and underneath. And continuously, day and
went. 13 And the living creatures had the appearance of night, they say: Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the
burning coals of fire, and something that looked like torches Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming.
9
of bright fire was moving back and forth between the living Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and
creatures, and lightning was flashing out from the fire. 14 And thanksgiving to the One seated on the throne, the One who
when the living creatures would go forth and return, their lives forever and ever, 10 the 24 elders fall down before the
movement had the appearance of flashes of lightning. One seated on the throne and worship the One who lives
(Ezekiel 1:22-24) Over the heads of the living creatures was forever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne,
the likeness of an expanse that sparkled like awesome ice, saying: 11 You are worthy, Jehovah our God, to receive the
stretched out above their heads. 23 Under the expanse their glory and the honor and the power, because you created all
wings were straight, one to the other. Each one had two wings things, and because of your will they came into existence and
for covering one side of their bodies and two for covering the were created.
other side. 24 When I heard the sound of their wings, it was
like a sound of rushing waters, like the sound of the *** w13 4/15 pp. 23-25 pars. 5-8 Make Sure of the More
Almighty. When they moved, it was like the sound of an Important Things ***
army. When they stood still, they would let their wings down. 5
There are many things that Jehovah chose not to include
(Daniel 7:9-14) I kept watching until thrones were set in in his written Word. For example, he did not provide details
place and the Ancient of Days sat down. His clothing was about how the brain works or how the universe functions,
white like snow, and the hair of his head was like clean wool. even though such information would have been very
His throne was flames of fire; its wheels were a burning fire. fascinating! Rather, Jehovah provided information that we
10
A stream of fire was flowing and going out from before need in order to understand his purposes and to live our lives
him. A thousand thousands kept ministering to him, and ten in harmony with them. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17) How interesting,
thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The Court then, that the Bible does provide glimpses of the invisible
took its seat, and books were opened. 11 I kept watching at part of Jehovahs organization! We thrill at reading the
that time because of the sound of the arrogant words that the descriptions of Jehovahs heavenly arrangement written by
horn was speaking; I watched until the beast was killed and Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel and in Johns Revelation account.
its body was destroyed and it was given over to be burned in (Isa. 6:1-4; Ezek. 1:4-14, 22-24; Dan. 7:9-14; Rev. 4:1-11) It
the fire. 12 But as for the rest of the beasts, their rulerships is as if Jehovah pulled back a curtain and allowed us to peer
were taken away, and their lives were prolonged for a time into the heavens. Why did he provide this information?
and a season. 13 I kept watching in the visions of the night, 6
and look! with the clouds of the heavens, someone like a son Jehovah wanted us never to forget that we are part of a
of man was coming; and he gained access to the Ancient of universal organization. There is much more going on in
Days, and they brought him up close before that One. 14 And support of Jehovahs purposes than what we can see. For
to him there were given rulership, honor, and a kingdom, that example, Ezekiel saw the invisible part of Jehovahs
the peoples, nations, and language groups should all serve organization depicted by a colossal celestial chariot. This
him. His rulership is an everlasting rulership that will not chariot could move swiftly and change direction in an instant.
pass away, and his kingdom will not be destroyed. (Ezek. 1:15-21) With each revolution of its wheels, the
chariot could cover great distances. In vision, Ezekiel was
(Revelation 4:1-11) After this I saw, and look! an opened
also able to get a glimpse of the Rider of the chariot. He said:
door in heaven, and the first voice that I heard speaking with
I got to see something like the glow of electrum, like the
me was like a trumpet, saying: Come up here, and I will
appearance of fire all around . . . It was the appearance of the
show you the things that must take place. 2 After this I
likeness of the glory of Jehovah. (Ezek. 1:25-28) How awe-
immediately came to be in the power of the spirit, and look! a
inspiring it must have been for Ezekiel to see this vision! He
throne was in its position in heaven, and someone was seated
saw Jehovah in full control of his organization, directing its
on the throne. 3 And the One seated had the appearance of a
movement through his holy spirit. What an amazing
jasper stone and a sardius stone, and all around the throne
representation of the heavenly part of Jehovahs organization
was a rainbow like an emerald in appearance. 4 All around the
on the move!
throne were 24 thrones, and on these thrones I saw seated 24
elders dressed in white garments, and on their heads golden 7
Daniel too saw much to give us confidence. He was
crowns. 5 From the throne were coming lightning and voices allowed to see Jehovah depicted as the Ancient of Days
and thunders; and there were seven lamps of fire burning sitting on a throne with flames of fire. The throne was on
before the throne, and these mean the seven spirits of God. wheels. (Dan. 7:9) Jehovah wanted Daniel to see that His
6
Before the throne was something resembling a glassy sea, organization is in motion, accomplishing His purpose. Daniel
like crystal. In the midst of the throne and around the throne also saw someone like a son of man, Jesus, being given
were four living creatures that were full of eyes in front and oversight of the earthly part of Jehovahs organization.
behind. 7 The first living creature was like a lion, and the Christs perfect rule does not exist for just a few short years.
second living creature was like a young bull, and the third Rather, it is an indefinitely lasting rulership that will not
living creature had a face like a mans, and the fourth living pass away, and his kingdom one that will not be brought to
creature was like a flying eagle. 8 As for the four living ruin. (Dan. 7:13, 14) We are moved to trust in Jehovah and
creatures, each one of them had six wings; they were full of to recognize what he is accomplishing. He gave rulership

43
and dignity and kingdom to his tried and proven Son, Jesus. Why should clashes of culture concern us? First of all
Jehovah puts trust in his Son. Thus, we can have confidence because Jehovahs people are keen to fulfill their divine
in Jesus leadership as well. commission to make disciples of people of all the nations.
8
(Matthew 28:19) To accomplish this task, some have moved
How should this view of the invisible part of Jehovahs to serve where the need for ministers is greater. To succeed in
organization impact us? Like Ezekiel, we are surely awed and their new environment, they must understand and adapt to the
humbled by what Jehovah is accomplishing. (Ezek. 1:28) distinct cultures they encounter. Then they will be able to
Meditating on Jehovahs organization can move us to action, work in harmony with their fellow brothers and sisters, while
just as it did Isaiah. When the opportunity arose for him to also being more effective in the public ministry.
tell others about what Jehovah is doing, he seized it without
hesitation. (Read Isaiah 6:5, 8.) Isaiah was confident that Furthermore, in this turbulent world, many people have
with Jehovahs backing, he could successfully face any fled from their troubled homelands for political or economic
challenge. Similarly, this glimpse of the invisible part of reasons and have settled in other countries. So we could well
Jehovahs organization should fill us with awe and spur us to find that while preaching to these new neighbors, we are
action. How motivating to contemplate that organization, ever confronted with new customs. (Matthew 22:39) Our initial
on the move and completely focused on accomplishing exposure to different ways may result in a sense of confusion
Jehovahs purposes! about new customs.
Areas Clearly Defined
Page 24 Unit 3 (a)
Culture is woven into the fabric of human society. What a
*** w11 9/15 p. 14 pars. 14-15 Are You Letting Jehovah fruitless exercise it would be, therefore, to become righteous
Be Your Share? *** overmuch and investigate every small custom to decide
14
whether it is compatible with Bible principles!Ecclesiastes
How do you react when Jehovah, the Source of 7:16.
spiritual enlightenment, sheds light on the deep things of
God found in the Bible? (1 Cor. 2:10-13) We have an On the other hand, there is a need to identify local
excellent example in the apostle Peters reaction when Jesus customs that clearly violate divine principles. Generally,
told His listeners: Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man though, that is not difficult to do, since Gods Word is
and drink his blood, you have no life in yourselves. Taking available for setting things straight. (2 Timothy 3:16) For
those words literally, many disciples said: This speech is example, having many wives is customary in some lands, but
shocking; who can listen to it? They went off to the things for true Christians the Scriptural standard is for a man to have
behind. But Peter said: Lord, whom shall we go away to? just one living wife.Genesis 2:24; 1 Timothy 3:2.
You have sayings of everlasting life.John 6:53, 60, 66, 68.
Likewise, certain funeral customs designed to keep away
15
Peter did not fully understand what Jesus said about evil spirits, or based on a belief in an immortal soul, would be
eating His flesh and drinking His blood. But the apostle relied unacceptable for a true Christian. Some people offer incense
on God for spiritual enlightenment. When spiritual light on or prayers to the departed in order to repel wicked spirits.
some matter gets brighter, do you try to understand the Others have wakes or even a second burial with the objective
underlying Scriptural reasons for the adjustment? (Prov. 4:18) of helping the deceased to prepare for life in the next world.
The first-century Beroeans received the word with the The Bible teaches, however, that when a person dies, he is
greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the conscious of nothing at all, and thus he cannot do good or
Scriptures daily. (Acts 17:11) Imitating them will deepen harm to anyone.Ecclesiastes 9:5; Psalm 146:4.
your appreciation for your privilege to serve Jehovah, to have
him be your share. Of course, there are many customs that are compatible
with Gods Word. How refreshing when we come into contact
*** w98 10/1 pp. 19-23 Local Cultures and Christian with cultures where the spirit of hospitality still thrives,
PrinciplesAre They Compatible? *** where custom demands that even a stranger be given a warm
Local Cultures and Christian PrinciplesAre They greeting and that, when necessary, the home be opened up to
Compatible? him! When you experience such treatment firsthand, are you
not moved to follow this example? If you are, it will certainly
improve your Christian personality.Hebrews 13:1, 2.
STEPHEN, a Witness from Northern Europe, was
assigned as a missionary to an African country. While Who of us likes to be kept waiting? In some lands this
strolling through town with a local brother, he was startled rarely happens because punctuality is considered important.
when the brother took hold of his hand. The Bible tells us that Jehovah is a God of order.
(1 Corinthians 14:33) Consequently, he has set a day and
The thought of walking down a busy street holding hands hour to end wickedness, and he assures us that this event
with another man was shocking to Stephen. In his culture will not be late. (Matthew 24:36; Habakkuk 2:3) Cultures
such a custom has homosexual connotations. (Romans 1:27) that promote reasonable punctuality help us to be orderly and
Nevertheless, to the African brother, holding hands was to show proper respect for other people and their time, which
purely a gesture of friendship. The rejection of the hand is certainly in line with Scriptural principles.1 Corinthians
would signify a rejection of the friendship. 14:40; Philippians 2:4.
44
What About Innocuous Customs? wear a necktie, but in some tropical countries, it may be
viewed as excessively formal. Taking into account local taste
While some customs are clearly compatible with the as to what is proper dress for a professional person who deals
Christian way of living, others are not. But what about those with the public will often be a helpful guide. Soundness of
customs that cannot be defined as good or bad? Many mind is vital when we deal with the sensitive issue of
customs are innocuous, or harmless, and our attitude toward clothing.1 Timothy 2:9, 10.
them can demonstrate our spiritual balance.
What if a custom does not please us? Should it
For example, there are many forms of greetingsa automatically be rejected? Not necessarily. The custom of
handshake, a bow, a kiss, or even an embrace. Likewise, there males holding hands, mentioned earlier, was perfectly
is a huge variety of customs governing table manners. In acceptable in that particular African community. When the
some lands people eat from a communal plate or dish. missionary noticed that other men were walking around
Burping is an acceptableeven desirableexpression of holding hands, he felt more at ease.
appreciation in certain countries, whereas in others it is
unacceptable and would be classed as the height of bad The apostle Paul, during his extensive missionary
manners. journeys, visited congregations whose members came from
diverse backgrounds. Doubtless, clashes of culture were
Rather than deciding which of these neutral customs you frequent. Thus, Paul adapted to whatever customs he could
personally like or dislike, concentrate on adopting the right while firmly adhering to Bible principles. I have become all
attitude toward them. The timeless counsel from the Bible things to people of all sorts, he said, that I might by all
recommends that we do nothing out of contentiousness or means save some.1 Corinthians 9:22, 23; Acts 16:3.
out of egotism, but with lowliness of mind, we consider that
others are superior to us. (Philippians 2:3) Similarly, Eleanor A few pertinent questions may help us decide how we
Boykin, in her book This Way, PleaseA Book of Manners, should react to new customs. By our adopting a certain
says: A kind heart is the first thing you need. customor refusing to do sowhat impression are we
giving observers? Will they be attracted to the Kingdom
This humble approach will prevent us from disparaging message because they can see that we are trying to integrate
the customs of others. We will feel motivated to reach out and into their culture? On the other hand, if we do adopt a local
learn how other people live, share their customs and taste custom, could our ministry be found fault with?
their foods rather than hold back or view with suspicion 2 Corinthians 6:3.
everything that seems different. By keeping an open mind
and being willing to try new ways, we pay a compliment to If we desire to become all things to people of all sorts,
our host or our foreign neighbors. We also benefit ourselves we may have to alter some deeply ingrained views as to what
as we widen out our hearts and our horizons. is proper and what is not. Often the right and the wrong
2 Corinthians 6:13. way to do something depends merely on where we are living.
Thus, in one country hand-holding among men is a
If the Custom Hinders Spiritual Progress demonstration of friendship, while in many others it would
What if we encounter customs that are not unscriptural in surely detract from the Kingdom message.
themselves, yet they are not conducive to spiritual progress? There are other customs, however, that are acceptable in
In some lands, for example, people may be very inclined to various regions and that may even be proper for Christians;
procrastinate. This easygoing approach to life can reduce yet we must exercise caution.
stress, but it will likely make it more difficult for us to
accomplish our ministry fully.2 Timothy 4:5. Beware of Crossing the Line!
How can we encourage others to avoid putting important Jesus Christ said that although his disciples could not be
things off until tomorrow? Remember that a kind heart is taken out of the world, they had to remain no part of the
the first thing you need. Motivated by love, we can set the world. (John 17:15, 16) Sometimes, though, it is no easy
example and then kindly explain the benefits of not leaving task to identify the line between what is an integral part of
until tomorrow what should be done today. (Ecclesiastes Satans world and what is merely culture. Music and dancing,
11:4) At the same time, we must be careful not to sacrifice for example, permeate almost every culture, although in some
mutual trust and confidence in the interest of productivity. If lands they assume greater importance.
our suggestions are not immediately accepted by others, we
should not lord it over them or take out our frustration on We may easily make a judgmentbased more on our
them. Love must always take precedence over efficiency. background than on sound Scriptural reasons. Alex, a German
1 Peter 4:8; 5:3. brother, received an assignment to Spain. In his former
environment, dancing was not very popular, but in Spain it is
Taking Into Account Local Taste part of the culture. When he first saw a brother and a sister
performing a lively local dance, he was confused. Was this
We need to be sure that any suggestion we make is a dancing wrong or perhaps worldly? Would he be lowering his
valid one and not just an effort to impose our own personal standards if he went along with this custom? Alex learned
tastes. Styles of clothing, for example, vary greatly. In many that although the music and the dancing were different, there
regions it is proper for a man preaching the good news to was no reason to assume that his Spanish brothers and sisters
45
were lowering Christian standards. His confusion was due to (John 6:68) Simon Peter answered him: Lord, whom shall
a difference in cultures. we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.
However, Emilio, a brother who enjoys traditional (Psalm 97:11) Light has flashed up for the righteous And
Spanish dancing, recognizes that there is a danger. I notice rejoicing for those upright in heart.
that many forms of dancing require the couple to have very (2 Peter 1:19-21) So we have the prophetic word made more
close contact, he explains. As a single person, I realize that sure, and you are doing well in paying attention to it as to a
this can affect the feelings of at least one of the partners. lamp shining in a dark place (until day dawns and a daystar
Sometimes, dancing can be used as an excuse to show rises) in your hearts. 20 For you know this first, that no
affection for someone you feel attracted to. Making sure that prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation.
21
the music is wholesome and that physical contact is kept to a For prophecy was at no time brought by mans will, but
minimum can serve as a protection. Nevertheless, I must men spoke from God as they were moved by holy spirit.
admit that when a group of young single brothers and sisters
go out dancing together, it is very difficult to maintain a Page 25 Unit 3 (a)
theocratic atmosphere.
(Matthew 5:14-16) You are the light of the world. A city
Certainly, we would not want to use our culture as an cannot be hid when located on a mountain. 15 People light a
excuse for indulging in worldly behavior. Singing and lamp and set it, not under a basket, but on the lampstand, and
dancing had a place in Israelite culture, and when the it shines on all those in the house. 16 Likewise, let your light
Israelites were liberated from Egypt at the Red Sea, their shine before men, so that they may see your fine works and
celebration included both song and dance. (Exodus 15:1, 20) give glory to your Father who is in the heavens.
However, their particular form of music and dancing differed
(Mark 13:10) Also, in all the nations, the good news has to
from that of the pagan world around them.
be preached first.
Sad to say, while waiting for Moses to return from Mount
Sinai, the Israelites got impatient, made a golden calf, and *** w08 5/15 p. 5 par. 12 How Should We Treat Others?
after eating and drinking got up to have a good time. ***
(Exodus 32:1-6) When Moses and Joshua heard the sound of 12
We treat people in the best way possible when we help
their singing, it immediately disturbed them. (Exodus 32:17,
them to receive spiritual light from God. (Ps. 43:3) Jesus told
18) The Israelites had crossed that line, and their form of
his disciples that they were the light of the world and urged
singing and dancing now reflected the pagan world around
them to let their light shine so that people might see their
them.
fine works, or good deeds to others. This would result in
Similarly today, music and dancing may be generally spiritual illumination before men, or for the benefit of
acceptable in our locality and may not offend the conscience mankind. (Read Matthew 5:14-16.) Today, we let our light
of others. But if the lights are turned low, flashing lights are shine by doing good to our neighbors and by sharing in the
added, or music with a different rhythm is played, what was work of preaching the good news in all the world, that is,
formerly acceptable may now reflect the spirit of the world. in all the nations. (Matt. 26:13; Mark 13:10) What a
It is just our culture, we could argue. Aaron used a similar privilege we enjoy!
excuse when he acquiesced to pagan forms of entertainment
and worship, erroneously describing them as a festival to
Jehovah. This lame excuse was invalid. Why, their conduct Page 26 Unit 3 (b)
was even viewed as a disgrace among their opposers. Pioneer Service School Review-Day 1
Exodus 32:5, 25.
Unit 1 (b) Fortify Your Relationship With Jehovah
Culture Has Its Place (Psalm 77:12) And I will meditate on all your activity And
ponder over your dealing
Exotic customs may at first shock us, but not all of them
are necessarily unacceptable. With our perceptive powers Unit 2 (a) Using the New World Translation-Part 1
trained, we can determine which customs are compatible (2 Timothy 2:15) Do your utmost to present yourself
with Christian principles and which are not. (Hebrews 5:14) approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of,
handling the word of the truth aright.
When we manifest a kind heart full of love for our
fellowman, we will react appropriately when faced with Page 27 Unit 3 (b)
innocuous customs.
As we preach the Kingdom good news to people in our *** nwt p. 1735 A4 The Divine Name in the Hebrew
local area or further afield, a balanced approach to the Scriptures ***
kaleidoscope of cultures will enable us to become all things Explaining why he used Jehovah instead of Yahweh
to all men. And doubtless we will find that as we welcome in his 1911 work Studies in the Psalms, respected Bible
the variety of cultures, it will contribute to our having a rich, scholar Joseph Bryant Rotherham said that he wanted to
colorful, and fascinating life. employ a form of the name more familiar (while perfectly
acceptable) to the general Bible-reading public. In 1930

46
scholar A. F. Kirkpatrick made a similar point regarding the (Psalm 119:1) Happy are those who are blameless in their
use of the form Jehovah. He said: Modern grammarians way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah.
argue that it ought to be read Yahveh or Yahaveh; but (Revelation 4:11) You are worthy, Jehovah our God, to
JEHOVAH seems firmly rooted in the English language, and receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you
the really important point is not the exact pronunciation, but created all things, and because of your will they came into
existence and were created.
the recognition that it is a Proper Name, not merely an It-2 pp. 1008-1009 see page 31
appellative title like Lord.
What is the meaning of the name Jehovah? In Hebrew, Page 31 Unit 4 (a)
the name Jehovah comes from a verb that means to
become, and a number of scholars feel that it reflects the QUESTION OUTLINE
All Mankind is Fully Dependent on Jehovah
causative form of that Hebrew verb. Thus, the understanding
of the New World Bible Translation Committee is that Gods *** it-2 p. 1008 Sovereignty ***
name means He Causes to Become. Scholars hold varying SOVEREIGNTY
views, so we cannot be dogmatic about this meaning.
However, this definition well fits Jehovahs role as the
Creator of all things and the Fulfiller of his purpose. He not Supremacy in rule or power; the dominion or rule of a
only caused the physical universe and intelligent beings to lord, king, emperor, or the like; the power that, in the final
exist, but as events unfold, he continues to cause his will and analysis, determines the government of a state.
purpose to be realized. In the Hebrew Scriptures the word Adhonai appears
Therefore, the meaning of the name Jehovah is not frequently, and the expression Adhonai Yehwih 285 times.
limited to the related verb found at Exodus 3:14, which reads: Adhonai is a plural form of adhohn, meaning lord;
I Will Become What I Choose to Become or, I Will Prove master. The plural form adhonim may be applied to men in
to Be What I Will Prove to Be. In the strictest sense, those simple plurality, as lords, or masters. But the term
words do not fully define Gods name. Rather, they reveal an Adhonai without an additional suffix is always used in the
aspect of Gods personality, showing that he becomes what is Scriptures with reference to God, the plural being employed
needed in each circumstance to fulfill his purpose. So while to denote excellence or majesty. It is most frequently
the name Jehovah may include this idea, it is not limited to rendered Lord by translators. When it appears with the
what he himself chooses to become. It also includes what he name of God (Adhonai Yehwih), as, for example, at Psalm
causes to happen with regard to his creation and the 73:28, the expression is translated Lord GOD (AT, KJ, RS);
accomplishment of his purpose. Lord God (Dy [72:28]); Lord, my Master (Kx [72:28]);
Lord Jehovah (Yg); Sovereign Lord Jehovah (NW). In
Psalms 47:9; 138:5; 150:2, Moffatt uses the word
Unit 2 (b) Using the New World Translation-Part 2 sovereign, but not to translate Adhonai.
(Psalm 119:97) How I do love your law! I ponder over it all
day long. The Greek word despotes means one who possesses
supreme authority, or absolute ownership and uncontrolled
power. (Vines Expository Dictionary of Old and New
Unit 3 (a) Keep Pace With Spiritual Enlightenment Testament Words, 1981, Vol. 3, pp. 18, 46) It is translated
(Luke 12:12) for the holy spirit will teach you in that very lord, master, owner, and when used in direct address to
hour the things you should say. God is rendered Lord (KJ, Yg, and others), Ruler of all
(Kx), Sovereign Lord (NW), at Luke 2:29, Acts 4:24, and
*** be p. 38 par. 2 How to Do Research *** Revelation 6:10. In the last text, Knox, The New English
Bible, Moffatt, and the Revised Standard Version read
If you are going to use the information in a talk, ask
Sovereign Lord; Youngs translation and the Kingdom
yourself: Does the point I plan to use really contribute
Interlinear read master.
something worthwhile to my presentation of the subject? Or,
even though it is interesting material, does it tend to divert So, while the Hebrew and Greek texts do not have a
attention from the subject that I ought to be talking about? If separate qualifying word for sovereign, the flavor is
you are considering using current events or material from the contained in the words Adhonai and despotes when they
ever-changing fields of science or medicine, make sure that are used in the Scriptures as applying to Jehovah God, the
the information is up-to-date. Realize, too, that some points in qualification denoting the excellence of his lordship.
older publications of ours may have been updated, so (Job 41:11) Who has given me anything first that I should
consider what has most recently been published on the topic repay him? Whatever is under the heavens is mine.
Page 28 & 29 personal notes (Psalm 24:1) To Jehovah belong the earth and everything in
it, The productive land and those dwelling on it.
Page 30 Unit 4 (a)
Uphold Jehovahs Sovereignty *** it-2 pp. 1008-1009 Sovereignty ***
Jehovahs Sovereignty. Jehovah God is the Sovereign of
OPENING DISCUSSION
the universe (sovereign of the world, Ps 47:9, Mo) by
47
reason of his Creatorship, his Godship, and his supremacy as evidently been contradictory in his own reasoning. (Ro 1:28)
the Almighty. (Ge 17:1; Ex 6:3; Re 16:14) He is the Owner of For he was charging God with unfair, unrighteous exercise of
all things and the Source of all authority and power, the sovereignty and, at the same time, was evidently counting on
Supreme Ruler in government. (Ps 24:1; Isa 40:21-23; Re Gods fairness: He seemed to think that God would consider
4:11; 11:15) The psalmist sang of him: Jehovah himself has Himself obliged to let him live on if he proved his charge
firmly established his throne in the very heavens; and over concerning the unfaithfulness of Gods creatures.
everything his own kingship has held domination. (Ps
103:19; 145:13) Jesus disciples prayed, addressing God: (Acts 17:25) nor is he served by human hands as if he needed
Sovereign Lord, you are the One who made the heaven and anything, because he himself gives to all people life and
the earth. (Ac 4:24, NW; Mo) To the nation of Israel, God breath and all things.
himself constituted all three branches of government, the (Acts 17:28) For by him we have life and move and exist,
judicial, the legislative, and the executive. The prophet Isaiah even as some of your own poets have said, For we are also
said: Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, his children.
Jehovah is our King; he himself will save us. (Isa 33:22)
(Romans 1:24) Therefore, God, in keeping with the desires
Moses gives a notable description of God as Sovereign at
of their hearts, gave them up to uncleanness, so that their
Deuteronomy 10:17.
bodies might be dishonored among them.
In his sovereign position Jehovah has the right and (Romans 1:26) That is why God gave them over to
authority to delegate ruling responsibilities. David was made uncontrolled sexual passion, for their females changed the
king of Israel, and the Scriptures speak of the kingdom of natural use of themselves into one contrary to nature;
David as though it was his kingdom. But David (Romans 1:28) Just as they did not see fit to acknowledge
acknowledged Jehovah as the great Sovereign Ruler, saying: God, God gave them over to a disapproved mental state, to do
Yours, O Jehovah, are the greatness and the mightiness and the things not fitting.
the beauty and the excellency and the dignity; for everything
in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, (Colossians 1:21) Indeed, you who were once alienated and
O Jehovah, the One also lifting yourself up as head over enemies because your minds were on the works that were
all.1Ch 29:11. wicked,
(2 Corinthians 11:14, 15) And no wonder, for Satan himself
keeps disguising himself as an angel of light. 15 It is therefore
*** it-2 p. 1011 Sovereignty *** nothing extraordinary if his ministers also keep disguising
themselves as ministers of righteousness. But their end will
Gods servants charged with selfishness. A further be according to their works.
expression of the issue is found in Satans statement to God
about his faithful servant Job. Satan said: Is it for nothing (Jeremiah 10:23) I well know, O Jehovah, that mans way
that Job has feared God? Have not you yourself put up a does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is
hedge about him and about his house and about everything walking even to direct his step.
that he has all around? The work of his hands you have (Psalm 119:105) Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light
blessed, and his livestock itself has spread abroad in the earth. for my path.
But, for a change, thrust out your hand, please, and touch (Psalm 143:10) Teach me to do your will, For you are my
everything he has and see whether he will not curse you to God. Your spirit is good; May it lead me on level ground.
your very face. Again, he charged: Skin in behalf of skin, (Isaiah 54:13) And all your sons will be taught by Jehovah,
and everything that a man has he will give in behalf of his And the peace of your sons will be abundant.
soul. (Job 1:9-11; 2:4) Satan therewith charged Job with
being not in harmony with God at heart, as serving God
obediently only because of selfish considerations, for gain.
Satan thereby slandered God as to his sovereignty, and Gods
servants as to integrity to that sovereignty. He said, in effect,
that no man could be put on earth who would maintain
integrity to Jehovahs sovereignty if he, Satan, was allowed to
put him to the test.
Jehovah permitted the issue to be joined. Not, however,
because he was unsure of the righteousness of his own Subjection to Jehovah Requires Loyalty
sovereignty. He needed nothing proved to himself. It was out
*** it-2 pp. 280-281 Loyalty ***
of love for his intelligent creatures that he allowed time for
LOYALTY
the testing out of the matter. He permitted men to undergo a
test by Satan, before all the universe. And he gave his
creatures the privilege of proving the Devil a liar, and of In the Hebrew Scriptures, the adjective chasidh is used
removing the slander not only from Gods name but also from of someone loyal, or one of loving-kindness. (Ps 18:25,
their own. Satan, in his egotistic attitude, was given up to a ftn) The noun chesedh has reference to kindness but contains
disapproved mental state. In his approach to Eve, he had more than the thought of tender regard or kindness stemming

48
from love, though it includes such traits. It is kindness that would not be left in Sheol. (Ps 16:10) On the day of
lovingly attaches itself to an object until its purpose in Pentecost, 33 C.E., the apostle Peter applied this prophecy to
connection with that object is realized. Such is the sort of Jesus, saying: [David] saw beforehand and spoke concerning
kindness that God expresses toward his servants and that they the resurrection of the Christ, that neither was he forsaken in
express toward him. It therefore comes into the field of Hades nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God
loyalty, a righteous, devoted, holy loyalty, and is variously resurrected, of which fact we are all witnesses. (Ac 2:25-28,
rendered loving-kindness and loyal love.Ge 20:13; 31, 32; compare Ac 13:32-37.) The Expositors Greek
21:23; see KINDNESS. Testament, in a comment on Acts 2:27, says that the Hebrew
word chasidh (used in Ps 16:10) denotes not only one who
In the Greek Scriptures the noun hosiotes and the is godly and pious, but also one who is the object of
adjective hosios carry the thought of holiness, righteousness, Jehovahs loving-kindness.Edited by W. R. Nicoll, 1967,
reverence; being devout, pious; the careful observance of all Vol. II.
duties toward God. It involves a right relationship with God.
Loyalty Required by God. Jehovah requires loyalty of
There appear to be no English words that exactly express his servants. They must copy him. (Eph 5:1) The apostle Paul
the full meaning of the Hebrew and Greek words, but tells Christians that they should put on the new personality
loyalty, including, as it does, the thought of devotion and which was created according to Gods will in true
faithfulness, when used in connection with God and his righteousness and loyalty. (Eph 4:24) In recommending
service, serves to give an approximation. The best way to prayer in the congregation, he says: Therefore I desire that
determine the full meaning of the Bible terms in question is in every place the men carry on prayer, lifting up loyal hands,
to examine their usage in the Bible. apart from wrath and debates. (1Ti 2:8) Loyalty is an
Jehovahs Loyalty. Jehovah God the Most Holy One, essential quality if a man is to qualify for appointment to
who is devoted to righteousness and who exercises serve as an overseer in the congregation of God.Tit 1:8.
unbreakable loving-kindness toward those who serve him,
deals in righteousness and trueness even with his enemies and (Jeremiah 3:12) Go and proclaim these words to the north:
is eminently dependable. It is said of him: Great and Return, O renegade Israel, declares Jehovah. I will not
wonderful are your works, Jehovah God, the Almighty. look down angrily on you, for I am loyal, declares Jehovah.
Righteous and true are your ways, King of eternity. Who will I will not stay resentful forever.
not really fear you, Jehovah, and glorify your name, because (Revelation 15:4) Who will not really fear you, Jehovah, and
you alone are loyal? (Re 15:3, 4) Because Jehovahs loyalty glorify your name, for you alone are loyal? For all the nations
to righteousness and justice, as well as his love for his people, will come and worship before you, because your righteous
prompts him to take needed judicial action, an angel was decrees have been revealed.
moved to say: You, the One who is and who was, the loyal
See above on loyality
One, are righteous, because you have rendered these
*** w13 6/15 pp. 17-18 pars. 4-6 Appreciate Jehovahs
decisions.Re 16:5; compare Ps 145:17.
Loyalty and Forgiveness ***
Jehovah is loyal to his covenants. (De 7:9) Because of his 4
How does Jehovah demonstrate loyalty? He never
covenant with his friend Abraham, he exercised long-
abandons his faithful worshippers. One such worshipper,
suffering and mercy for centuries toward the nation of Israel.
King David, testified to Jehovahs loyalty. (Read 2 Samuel
(2Ki 13:23) Through his prophet Jeremiah he appealed to
22:26.) During Davids trials, Jehovah loyally guided,
Israel: Do return, O renegade Israel, is the utterance of
protected, and delivered him. (2 Sam. 22:1) David knew that
Jehovah. I shall not have my face drop angrily upon you
Jehovahs loyalty involves more than mere words. Why did
people, for I am loyal. (Jer 3:12) Those who are loyal to
Jehovah act loyally toward David? Because David himself
him can rely fully on him. David, in prayer, asked for Gods
was someone loyal. Jehovah cherishes the loyalty of his
help and said: With someone loyal you will act in loyalty;
worshippers, and he repays it with loyalty toward them.
with the faultless, mighty one you will deal faultlessly. (2Sa
Prov. 2:6-8.
22:26) In an appeal to the people, David asked them to turn
away from what is bad and do what is good, for, he said, 5
We can gain strength from reflecting on Jehovahs acts
Jehovah is a lover of justice, and he will not leave his loyal of loyalty. It really helps me when I read about how Jehovah
ones. To time indefinite they will certainly be guarded.Ps dealt with David in times of distress, says a faithful brother
37:27, 28. named Reed. Even when David was on the run, living in and
out of caves, Jehovah always sustained him. I find that very
Those who are loyal to Jehovah can count on his
encouraging! It reminds me that no matter what the
closeness and his help to the very end of their faithful course,
circumstance might be, no matter how bleak the situation
and they can rest in full security, knowing that he will
might seem, Jehovah will be there for me as long as I remain
remember them no matter what situation arises. He guards
loyal to him. No doubt, you feel the same way.Rom.
their way. (Pr 2:8) He guards their lives or souls.Ps 97:10.
8:38, 39.
Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ when on earth was greatly 6
In what other ways does Jehovah demonstrate loyalty?
strengthened in the knowledge that God had caused to be
He remains true to his standards. Even to ones old age I am
foretold of him that, as Gods chief loyal one, his soul
the same, he assures us. (Isa. 46:4) He always makes
49
decisions based on his unchanging standards of right and congregations, at circuit assemblies, and at district
wrong. (Mal. 3:6) In addition, Jehovah demonstrates loyalty conventions, happy occasions? Is it not the brotherly affection
by remaining faithful to his word of promise. (Isa. 55:11) they display toward one another? Without a doubt, brotherly
Jehovahs loyalty thus benefits all of his faithful worshippers. affection is one reason why it has been said that no other
How so? When we do our best to adhere to Jehovahs religious group gets as much enjoyment, happiness, and
standards, we can be confident that he will keep his promise satisfaction out of religion as do Jehovahs Witnesses.
to bless us.Isa. 48:17, 18. 2
We should expect to see such brotherly affection in
view of the apostle Peters words at 1 Peter 1:22: Now that
Page 32 Unit 4 (a) you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth
(Ephesians 6:1) Children, be obedient to your parents in with unhypocritical brotherly affection as the result, love one
union with the Lord, for this is righteous. another intensely from the heart. One of the basic elements
of the Greek word here rendered brotherly affection is
(Colossians 3:18) You wives, be in subjection to your philia (affection). Its meaning is closely related to the
husbands, as it is becoming in the Lord. meaning of agape, the word usually translated love.
(Hebrews 13:17) Be obedient to those who are taking the (1 John 4:8) While brotherly affection and love are often used
lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping interchangeably, they have specific characteristics. We should
watch over you as those who will render an account, so that not confuse them with each other, as so many translators of
they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would the Bible do. (In this article and in the one that follows, we
be damaging to you. will treat each of these words.)
(Acts 10:34, 35) At this Peter began to speak, and he said: 3
Regarding the difference between these two Greek
Now I truly understand that God is not partial, 35 but in every
words, one scholar noted that philia is definitely a word of
nation the man who fears him and does what is right is
warmth and closeness and affection. On the other hand, aga
acceptable to him.
pe has more to do with the mind. Thus while we are told to
(John 15:13) No one has love greater than this, that someone love (agape) our enemies, we do not have affection for
should surrender his life in behalf of his friends. them. Why not? Because bad associations spoil useful
(Acts 9:23-25) Now when many days had passed, the Jews habits. (1 Corinthians 15:33) Further indicating that there is
plotted together to do away with him. 24 However, their plot a difference are the words of the apostle Peter: Supply to
against Saul became known to him. They were also watching your . . . brotherly affection love.2 Peter 1:5-7; compare
the gates closely both day and night in order to do away with John 21:15-17.
him. 25 So his disciples took him and let him down by night
through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket. Examples of Very Special Brotherly Affection
4
(Revelation 2:10) Do not be afraid of the things you are Gods Word gives us a number of fine examples of very
about to suffer. Look! The Devil will keep on throwing some special brotherly affection. This special affection is not the
of you into prison so that you may be fully put to the test, and result of some whim but is based on appreciation of
you will have tribulation for ten days. Prove yourself faithful outstanding qualities. Doubtless the best-known example is
even to death, and I will give you the crown of life. that of the affection Jesus Christ had for the apostle John.
Without question, Jesus had brotherly affection for all his
faithful apostles, and that for good reason. (Luke 22:28) One
way he showed this was by washing their feet, thereby giving
Godly Subjection Must Be From the Heart
them a lesson in humility. (John 13:3-16) But Jesus had a
(1 Peter 1:22) Now that you have purified yourselves by special affection for John, which John repeatedly mentions.
your obedience to the truth with unhypocritical brotherly (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2) Even as Jesus had reason to display
affection as the result, love one another intensely from the affection for his disciples and his apostles, John most likely
heart. gave Jesus reason to have special affection for him because of
*** w93 10/15 pp. 12-16 Finding the Key to Brotherly his deeper appreciation for Jesus. We can see this from Johns
Affection *** writings, both his Gospel and his inspired letters. How often
Finding the Key to Brotherly Affection he mentions love in those writings! Johns greater
appreciation for Jesus spiritual qualities is seen in what he
Supply to your . . . godly devotion wrote in John chapters 1 and 13 to 17, as well as by the
brotherly affection.2 PETER 1:5-7. repeated references he makes to Jesus prehuman existence.
John 1:1-3; 3:13; 6:38, 42, 58; 17:5; 18:37.
ONCE a physician who was not one of Jehovahs 5
Similarly, we would not want to overlook the very
Witnesses attended his daughters graduation from the Watch special brotherly affection that the apostle Paul and his
Tower Bible School of Gilead, where she had received Christian companion Timothy had for each other, which was,
missionary training. He was so impressed with the happy certainly, based on appreciating each others qualities. Pauls
throng that he opined that there must be very little sickness writings contain fine comments about Timothy, such as: I
among these people. What made that throng so happy? For have no one else of a disposition like his who will genuinely
that matter, what makes all gatherings of Jehovahs people, in care for the things pertaining to you. . . . You know the proof
50
he gave of himself, that like a child with a father he slaved recompense in returnI speak as to childrenyou, too,
with me in furtherance of the good news. (Philippians 2:20- widen out.
22) Many are the personal references in his letters to Timothy 10
that reveal Pauls warm affection for Timothy. For example, Clearly, many of the Corinthians were lacking in
note 1 Timothy 6:20: O Timothy, guard what is laid up in appreciative brotherly affection for the apostle Paul. Thus,
trust with you. (See also 1 Timothy 4:12-16; 5:23; some of them complained: His letters are weighty and
2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14, 15.) In particular does a comparison of forceful, but his presence in person is weak and his speech
Pauls letters to Timothy with his letter to Titus underscore contemptible. (2 Corinthians 10:10) That is why Paul
Pauls special affection for this young man. Timothy must referred to their superfine apostles and was driven to tell of
have felt the same way about their friendship, as can be noted the trials he had endured, as recorded at 2 Corinthians 11:5,
from Pauls words at 2 Timothy 1:3, 4: I never leave off 22-33.
remembering you in my supplications, . . . longing to see you, 11
Pauls warm affection for those he ministered to is
as I remember your tears, that I may get filled with joy. especially evident from his words at 1 Thessalonians 2:8:
6
The Hebrew Scriptures also provide fine examples, Having a tender affection for you, we were well pleased to
such as that of David and Jonathan. We read that after David impart to you, not only the good news of God, but also our
killed Goliath, Jonathans very soul became bound up with own souls, because you became beloved to us. In fact, he
the soul of David, and Jonathan began to love him as his own had such affection for these new brothers that when he could
soul. (1 Samuel 18:1) Appreciation for Davids example of stand it no longerso eager was he to know how they were
zeal for Jehovahs name and his fearlessness in going forth to enduring persecutionhe sent Timothy, who gave a good
meet the giant Goliath no doubt caused Jonathan to have report that greatly refreshed Paul. (1 Thessalonians 3:1, 2,
special affection for David. 6, 7) Well does Insight on the Scriptures observe: A close
bond of brotherly affection existed between Paul and those to
7
Jonathan had such affection for David that he risked his whom he ministered.
own life in defending David from King Saul. At no time did
Jonathan resent Davids being chosen by Jehovah to be the AppreciationThe Key to Brotherly Affection
next king of Israel. (1 Samuel 23:17) David had equally deep 12
Indubitably, the key to brotherly affection is
affection for Jonathan, which is evident from what he said appreciation. Do not all dedicated servants of Jehovah have
when mourning Jonathans death: I am distressed over you, qualities that we appreciate, that elicit our affection, making
my brother Jonathan, very pleasant you were to me. More us fond of them? All of us are seeking first the Kingdom of
wonderful was your love to me than the love from women. God and his righteousness. All of us are putting up a valiant
Truly, keen appreciation marked their relationship. fight against our three common foes: Satan and his demons,
2 Samuel 1:26. the wicked world under Satans control, and the inherited
8
We also have a fine example in the Hebrew Scriptures selfish tendencies of the fallen flesh. Should we not always
of special affection on the part of two women, Naomi and her take the position that our brothers are doing their best in view
widowed daughter-in-law Ruth. Recall Ruths words to of the circumstances? Everybody in the world is either on
Naomi: Do not plead with me to abandon you, to turn back Jehovahs side or on Satans side. Our dedicated brothers and
from accompanying you; for where you go I shall go, and sisters are on Jehovahs side, yes, our side, and therefore
where you spend the night I shall spend the night. Your merit our brotherly affection.
people will be my people, and your God my God. (Ruth 13
What about appreciating our elders? Should we not
1:16) Must we not conclude that Naomi, by her conduct and have a warm spot in our hearts for them in view of the way
her speaking of Jehovah, helped to evoke this appreciative they labor hard in the interests of the congregation? Like all
response on the part of Ruth?Compare Luke 6:40. of us, they have to provide for themselves and their families.
The Apostle Pauls Example They also have the same obligations as the rest of us to do
personal study, attend congregation meetings, and share in the
9
As we have seen, the apostle Paul had very special field ministry. In addition, they have the obligation to prepare
brotherly affection for Timothy. But he also set a marvelous program parts for the meetings, give public talks, and care for
example of expressing warm brotherly affection for his problems that come up in the congregation, which at times
brothers in general. He told the elders from Ephesus that for involve hours of judicial hearings. Truly, we want to keep
three years, night and day, [he] did not quit admonishing each holding men of that sort dear.Philippians 2:29.
one with tears. Warm brotherly affection? No question about
it! And they felt the same way about Paul. Upon hearing that Giving Expression to Brotherly Affection
they would see him no more, quite a bit of weeping broke 14
To please Jehovah, we must express the warm feeling
out among them all, and they fell upon Pauls neck and of brotherly affection for our fellow believers, even as Jesus
tenderly kissed him. (Acts 20:31, 37) Brotherly affection Christ and Paul did. We read: In [brotherly affection] have
based on appreciation? Yes! His brotherly affection is also tender affection for one another. (Romans 12:10, Kingdom
seen from his words at 2 Corinthians 6:11-13: Our mouth Interlinear) With reference to [brotherly affection], you do
has been opened to you, Corinthians, our heart has widened not need us to be writing you, for you yourselves are taught
out. You are not cramped for room within us, but you are by God to love one another. (1 Thessalonians 4:9, Int) Let
cramped for room in your own tender affections. So, as a your [brotherly affection] continue. (Hebrews 13:1, Int)
51
21
Surely our heavenly Father is pleased when we show So let us not forget that in expressing brotherly
brotherly affection for his earthly children! affection, the principle that Jesus stated in his Sermon on the
15
Mount applies: Practice giving, and people will give to you.
In apostolic times Christians were wont to greet one They will pour into your laps a fine measure, pressed down,
another with a holy kiss or a kiss of love. (Romans shaken together and overflowing. For with the measure that
16:16; 1 Peter 5:14) Truly an expression of brotherly you are measuring out, they will measure out to you in
affection! Today, in most parts of the earth, a more return. (Luke 6:38) We benefit ourselves when we show
appropriate expression would be a sincerely friendly smile brotherly affection, expressing esteem to those who are
and a firm handshake. In Latin lands, such as Mexico, there is servants of Jehovah as we ourselves are. Truly happy are
the greeting in the form of a hug, truly an expression of those who take delight in manifesting brotherly affection!
affection. This warm affection on the part of these brothers Page 33 Unit 4 (a)
might help to account for the great increases taking place in
their lands. (Proverbs 4:4) He taught me and said: May your heart hold
16
When we enter the Kingdom Hall, do we go out of our fast to my words. Keep my commandments and continue
way to express brotherly affection? It will cause us to have living.
encouraging words to say, especially to those who seem to be (Proverbs 4:10-13) Listen, my son, and accept my sayings,
depressed. We are told to speak consolingly to the depressed And the years of your life will be many. 11 I will instruct you
souls. (1 Thessalonians 5:14) That certainly is one way in in the way of wisdom; I will lead you in the tracks of
which we can communicate the warmth of brotherly uprightness. 12 When you walk, your steps will not be
affection. Another fine way is to express appreciation for a hindered; And if you run, you will not stumble. 13 Hold on to
fine public talk, a program part handled well, the good effort discipline; do not let it go. Safeguard it, for it means your life.
put forth by a student speaker in the Theocratic Ministry
School, and so forth. Jehovahs Sovereignty Expressed Trough the
17
How about inviting various ones to our homes for a
Congregation
meal or perhaps a snack after a meeting if it is not too late?
Should we not let Jesus counsel at Luke 14:12-14 govern? (Matthew 24:14) And this good news of the Kingdom will be
Once a former missionary was appointed as presiding preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the
overseer in a congregation where all others were of a nations, and then the end will come.
different race. He sensed a lack of brotherly affection, so he (Matthew 28:19, 20) Go, therefore, and make disciples of
set about to remedy the situation. How? Sunday after Sunday, people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the
he invited a different family for a meal. By the end of a year, Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them
all were manifesting warm brotherly affection toward him. to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I
18
am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of
When a brother or a sister is sick, at home or in a things.
hospital, brotherly affection will cause us to let that one know
(Matthew 24:45-47) Who really is the faithful and discreet
we care. Or how about those living in nursing homes? Why
slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give
not make a personal visit, make a phone call, or send a card
them their food at the proper time? 46 Happy is that slave if
expressing warm sentiments?
his master on coming finds him doing so! 47 Truly I say to
19
When giving such expressions of brotherly affection, you, he will appoint him over all his belongings.
we can ask ourselves, Is my brotherly affection partial? Do (1 Corinthians 5:9-13) In my letter I wrote you to stop
such factors as color of skin, education, or material keeping company with sexually immoral people, 10 not
possessions influence my manifestations of brotherly meaning entirely with the sexually immoral people of this
affection? Do I need to widen out in my brotherly affection, world or the greedy people or extortioners or idolaters.
as the apostle Paul urged the Christians in Corinth to do? Otherwise, you would actually have to get out of the world.
Brotherly affection will cause us to view our brothers 11
But now I am writing you to stop keeping company with
positively, appreciating them for their good points. Brotherly anyone called a brother who is sexually immoral or a greedy
affection will also help us to rejoice at our brothers person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an
advancement instead of envying it. extortioner, not even eating with such a man. 12 For what do I
20 have to do with judging those outside? Do you not judge
Brotherly affection should also make us alert to help
those inside, 13 while God judges those outside? Remove the
our brothers in the ministry. It should be as one of our songs
wicked person from among yourselves.
(Number 92) puts it:
(1 Corinthians 7:39) A wife is bound as long as her husband
Give kind assistance to all the weak, is alive. But if her husband should fall asleep in death, she is
So that with boldness they too can speak. free to be married to whomever she wants, only in the Lord.
(1 Timothy 5:17) Let the elders who preside in a fine way be
Never neglect those of tender years, considered worthy of double honor, especially those who
Help them grow strong and get rid of their work hard in speaking and teaching.
fears.
52
(Hebrews 10:23-25) Let us hold firmly the public declaration Since that issue has been judicially settled and declared
of our hope without wavering, for the one who promised is closed by the Court of heaven, no prolonged rebellion is
faithful. 24 And let us consider one another so as to incite to permitted in this case. Those failing to stand loyally on Gods
love and fine works, 25 not forsaking our meeting together, as side will not be able to appeal to Christ Jesus as a
some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all propitiatory helper, but Jehovah God will be all things to
the more so as you see the day drawing near. them, with no appeal or mediation possible. All rebels, spirit
and human, receive the divine sentence of destruction in the
second death.
Page 34 Unit 4 (a)
(Romans 5:8) But God recommends his own love to us in Page 35 Unit 4 (b)
that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Show Personal Interest in Others

*** w06 8/15 pp. 21-22 par. 9 JobA Man of Endurance


and Integrity ***
9
OPENING DISCUSSION
How can we face these problems successfully? By
viewing them as an opportunity to demonstrate that our love *** be study 30 p. 189 par. 3 Interest Shown in the Other
for Jehovah and our submission to his sovereignty are not Person ***
fickle. (James 1:2-4) Whatever the cause of our distress,
understanding the importance of loyalty to God will help us Show Interest From the Heart. Showing interest in
to maintain our spiritual balance. The apostle Peter wrote to people is, not a technique to be mastered, but a quality of the
Christians: Beloved ones, do not be puzzled at the burning heart. The degree of our interest in others is evident in many
among you, which is happening to you for a trial, as though a ways. It shows in how we listen and in what we say. It is
strange thing were befalling you. (1 Peter 4:12) And Paul manifested by the kindness and consideration we extend to
explained: All those desiring to live with godly devotion in others. Even when we do not say or do anything, it is
association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted. revealed by our attitude and our facial expressions. If we
(2 Timothy 3:12) Satan still challenges the integrity of the truly care about others, they will without fail be able to tell.
Witnesses of Jehovah, as he did in the case of Job. In fact, the
Bible indicates that Satan has increased his attacks on Gods (Galatians 6:10) So, then, as long as we have the
people during these last days.Revelation 12:9, 17. opportunity, let us work what is good toward all, but
especially toward those related to us in the faith.
(Revelation 20:7-9) Now as soon as the 1,000 years have
ended, Satan will be released from his prison, 8 and he will go (Hebrews 6:10) For God is not unrighteous so as to forget
out to mislead those nations in the four corners of the earth, your work and the love you showed for his name by
Gog and Magog, to gather them together for the war. The ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones.
number of these is as the sand of the sea. 9 And they
advanced over the whole earth and encircled the camp of the
holy ones and the beloved city. But fire came down out of Page 36 Unit 4 (b)
heaven and consumed them.
(Acts 26:2, 3) Concerning all the things of which I am
(1 Corinthians 15:24-28) Next, the end, when he hands over
accused by the Jews, King Agrippa, I consider myself happy
the Kingdom to his God and Father, when he has brought to
that it is before you I am to make my defense this day,
nothing all government and all authority and power. 25 For he 3
especially because you are an expert on all the customs as
must rule as king until God has put all enemies under his feet.
26 well as the controversies among the Jews. Therefore, I beg
And the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.
27 you to hear me patiently.
For God subjected all things under his feet. But when he
says that all things have been subjected, it is evident that (1 Corinthians 9:20-23) To the Jews I became as a Jew in
this does not include the One who subjected all things to him. order to gain Jews; to those under law I became as under law,
28
But when all things will have been subjected to him, then though I myself am not under law, in order to gain those
the Son himself will also subject himself to the One who under law. 21 To those without law I became as without law,
subjected all things to him, that God may be all things to although I am not without law toward God but under law
everyone. toward Christ, in order to gain those without law. 22 To the
weak I became weak, in order to gain the weak. I have
become all things to people of all sorts, so that I might by all
*** it-2 p. 170 Kingdom of God ***
possible means save some. 23 But I do all things for the sake
Following this, however, a final test is made of the of the good news, in order to share it with others.
integrity and devotion of all such earthly subjects. Satan is
loosed from his restraint in the abyss. Those yielding to his *** km 9/00 p. 4 Use Current Events to Stir Interest ***
seduction do so on the same issue raised in Eden: the Use Current Events to Stir Interest
rightfulness of Gods sovereignty. This is seen by their
attacking the camp of the holy ones and the beloved city.
53
1
Would you like to have a continuous supply of good copy, we should consider whom in particular it may interest,
ideas that will keep your ministry fresh and stir peoples and then make it a point to offer it to that person.
interest in the Bibles message? Then use what is happening 2
on the world scene and in your community to start Does the current Watchtower discuss a Bible topic that
conversations. You could draw on current local and national you and a workmate previously talked about? Is there an
events or international news items. These things are ever- article on family life that would be of help to a relative? Do
changing. (1 Cor. 7:31) Consider the following examples. you have an acquaintance who is planning a trip to a land that
has been featured in Awake!? Would one of the magazines
2
Economic problems and the cost of living are real appeal to certain businesses or local government agencies in
concerns of people. Thus, you might say: your territory? For example, a magazine that highlights
challenges facing the elderly may be of particular interest at
Did you hear on the news that [mention item] prices are nursing homes. Law enforcement agencies may be interested
rising again? Or you might comment about unemployment if in a magazine on the subject of crime.
a large firm has laid off many workers. Depending on how
3
you want to proceed with the discussion, you can follow up Results: After receiving the October 2011 Awake! on
by asking either Have you ever wondered why it is so hard How to Raise Responsible Children, a couple in South
to make a living? or Do you think that it will always be Africa phoned 25 schools in their congregations territory.
hard to make ends meet? Twenty-two accepted copies and distributed them to their
3
students. Another couple in that country had the same idea
Reports of violence, such as tragedies in families or and placed copies at schools in their territory. Teachers at one
among school students, provide a basis for another of the schools decided to use the magazine in their weekly
discussion. You could ask: orientation and reading program. The couple shared their
Did you read in the newspaper that [name tragedy in the experience with a circuit overseer. He then encouraged
community]? Then ask either What do you think is the congregations in his circuit to approach schools in their
cause for so much violence in the world? or Do you think a territories. The branch office received so many requests for
time will ever come when we can feel secure? additional magazines that this issue had to be reprinted!
4
4
News of devastating floods, earthquakes, or civil Our magazines discuss the real meaning behind current
unrest in different parts of the world also offers material events and direct attention to the Bible and Gods Kingdom.
that stirs interest. For example, you might ask: They are the only magazines on earth that are publishing
salvation. (Isa. 52:7) Therefore, we want to give them wide
Is God responsible for [name natural disaster]? Or you distribution. A good way to do that is by asking yourself,
could point to the latest outbreak of civil unrest and say: If Who would be interested in this?
everybody wants peace, why is it so hard to achieve?
5
Remain alert to current events that you can use in your Page 37 Unit 4 (b)
introduction. Helpful suggestions are found under Current
Events, on pages 10-11, in the Reasoning book. However, *** km 5/11 p. 3 How to Use the Please Follow Up (S-43)
avoid taking sides on political or social issues. Instead, direct Form ***
attention to the Scriptures and Gods Kingdom as the only How to Use the Please Follow Up (S-43) Form
permanent solution to mankinds problems.
This form should be filled out when you find an
(John 4:7) A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus interested person who does not live in your territory or who
said to her: Give me a drink. speaks a foreign language. Though in the past we used it
(John 4:10) In answer Jesus said to her: If you had known when meeting people who speak a foreign language whether
of the free gift of God and who it is who says to you, Give they demonstrated interest or not, we now use it only when
me a drink, you would have asked him, and he would have the person demonstrates interest. The only exception is if the
given you living water. person is deaf. If we meet someone who is deaf, regardless of
whether he demonstrates interest, we should fill out an S-43
(John 4:28, 29) So the woman left her water jar and went off form.
into the city and told the people: 29 Come and see a man who
told me everything I did. Could this not perhaps be the What should we do with the form after it is filled out?
Christ? We should give it to the congregation secretary. If he knows
which congregation to send it to, he may simply forward it to
*** km 5/13 p. 2 Who Would Be Interested in This? *** the elders of that congregation so that they can arrange to
Who Would Be Interested in This? care for the interest. If he cannot determine the congregation,
he will forward the form to the branch office.
1
The Watchtower and Awake! are prepared with the If the interested person speaks a foreign language and
worldwide field in mind. Therefore, the articles deal with a lives in your territory, you may continue calling on him to
wide variety of topics. As we read each article in our personal cultivate the interest until he is contacted by a publisher from

54
the appropriate foreign-language congregation.See the Philip simply asked: Do you actually know [or, do you
November 2009 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 4. understand] what you are reading? (Acts 8:30) This question
opened the way for Philip to explain truths about Jesus
(Romans 12:14-16) Keep on blessing those who persecute; Christ. Using a similar question, some modern-day Witnesses
bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; have found people who were truly hungering for a clear
weep with those who weep. 16 Have the same attitude toward understanding of Bible truth.
others as toward yourselves; do not set your mind on lofty
things, but be led along with the lowly things. Do not become Once they are given opportunity to express their own
wise in your own eyes.
views, many people will be more inclined to listen to you.
After asking a question, listen attentively. Be kind rather than
Listen Attentively to the Observations and Concerns of critical in acknowledging the persons response. Offer
Others commendation when you can do so sincerely. On one
(James 1:19) Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone occasion, after a scribe had answered intelligently, Jesus
must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, commended him, saying: You are not far from the kingdom
of God. (Mark 12:34) Even if you do not share the same
*** be study 44 p. 236-p. 239 Effective Use of view as the other person, you can thank him for expressing
Questions *** himself. What he said may make you aware of an attitude that
Study 44 you need to take into account in sharing Bible truth with him.
Effective Use of Questions To Introduce Important Thoughts. When you talk to a
group or converse with an individual, try to use questions to
What do you need to do? lead up to important thoughts. Be sure that your questions
involve matters of genuine interest to your audience. You
Use questions in a way that will achieve a may also use questions that are intriguing because the answer
desired result. Your aim may be to get an is not readily apparent. If you pause briefly after posing a
oral response; it may be to stimulate a question, your audience will likely listen with heightened
mental response. What you ask and how you interest to what follows.
ask it have a direct bearing on your success
in the use of questions. On one occasion, the prophet Micah used a number of
questions. After asking what God expects of those who
Why is it important? worship him, the prophet set out four more questions, each
Questions that are effective help listeners to including a possible answer. All those questions help to
get involved. Answers to well-chosen prepare readers for the insightful answer with which he
questions may also provide valuable concluded that part of his discussion. (Mic. 6:6-8) Could you
feedback for a teacher. do something like that when teaching? Try it.
To Reason on a Subject. Questions can be used to help
BECAUSE questions call for a responseeither oral or others follow the logic of an argument. When delivering a
mentalthey help to get your listeners involved. Questions serious pronouncement to Israel, Jehovah did this, as shown
can help you to start conversations and to enjoy a stimulating at Malachi 1:2-10. First he told them: I have loved you
exchange of thoughts. As a speaker and a teacher, you may people. They failed to appreciate that love, so he asked:
use questions to arouse interest, to help someone reason on a Was not Esau the brother of Jacob? Then Jehovah pointed
subject, or to add emphasis to what you say. When you make to the desolate condition of Edom as evidence that because of
good use of questions, you encourage others to think actively their wickedness, God did not love that nation. He followed
instead of listening passively. Have an objective in mind, and this with illustrations interspersed with questions to
ask your questions in a manner that will help to achieve it. emphasize Israels failure to respond properly to his love.
Some of the questions are phrased as if the unfaithful priests
To Encourage Conversation. When you engage in the
were asking them. Others are questions that Jehovah asked
field ministry, be alert to opportunities to invite people to
the priests. The dialogue stirs emotions and holds our
express themselves if they are willing to do so.
attention; the logic is irrefutable; the message, unforgettable.
Many Witnesses begin interesting discussions by simply
Some speakers effectively use questions in a similar way.
asking, Have you ever wondered . . . ? When they choose a
Although no oral reply may be expected, the audience
question that truly is on the minds of many people, they will
becomes involved mentally, as if sharing in a dialogue.
almost assuredly have a fine time in the field ministry. Even
if the question is new to the thinking of the other person, it When we conduct Bible studies, we use a method that
may stimulate curiosity. A wide variety of matters can be calls for participation by the student. Of course, the greater
introduced with such expressions as What do you good is done if the student does not simply recite the printed
think . . . ?, How do you feel . . . ?, and Do you answers. In a kindly tone, use auxiliary questions to reason
believe . . . ? with the student. On key thoughts, encourage him to use the
Bible as the basis for his reply. You might also ask: How
When the evangelizer Philip approached an Ethiopian
does what we are discussing fit in with this other point that
court official who was reading aloud the prophecy of Isaiah,
55
we have studied? Why is it important? How should it affect 14:1-6) No reply was expected, nor was one offered. The
our lives? Such a method is more effective than expressing questions exposed their wrong thinking.
your own convictions or giving an extended explanation
yourself. In this way, you help the student to use his power At times, even true Christians can fall into wrong
of reason to worship God.Rom. 12:1. thinking. Some in first-century Corinth were taking their
brothers to court to resolve problems that they should have
If a student does not grasp a certain idea, be patient. He been able to solve between themselves. How did the apostle
may be trying to compare what you are saying with what he Paul handle the matter? He asked a series of pointed
has believed for many years. Approaching the subject from a questions to adjust their thinking.1 Cor. 6:1-8.
different angle might help. Sometimes, however, very basic
reasoning is needed. Make liberal use of the Scriptures. Use With practice, you can learn to make effective use of
illustrations. Along with these, use simple questions that questions. However, remember to be respectful, especially
invite the person to reason on the evidence. when speaking to older ones, people you do not know
personally, and those in positions of authority. Use questions
To Draw Out Inner Feelings. When people answer to present Bible truth in an appealing way.
questions, they do not always reveal how they really feel.
They may simply give the answers that they think you want. HOW TO DO IT
Discernment is needed. (Prov. 20:5) As Jesus did, you might
ask: Do you believe this?John 11:26. To encourage conversation, use questions
involving matters that are truly important to
When many of Jesus disciples took offense at what he the other person.
said and abandoned him, Jesus invited his apostles to express
how they felt. He asked: You do not want to go also, do Before you state an important idea, try to
you? Peter put their feelings into words, saying: Lord, use a question that will make others want to
whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting hear it.
life; and we have believed and come to know that you are the
Use questions to help people see the basis
Holy One of God. (John 6:67-69) On another occasion,
for statements made, the logic of truths
Jesus asked his disciples: Who are men saying the Son of
presented, and the good effects these can
man is? He followed this with a question that invited them
have on their lives.
to express what was in their own hearts. You, though, who
do you say I am? In response, Peter said: You are the Use questions to invite the student not only
Christ, the Son of the living God.Matt. 16:13-16. to recite facts but also to express how he
feels about what he is learning.
When conducting a Bible study, you may find it
beneficial to take a similar approach to certain issues. You EXERCISES: (1) Having in mind the area in which you
might ask: How do your classmates (or workmates) view witness, prepare several questions that you could use to
this matter? Then you might ask: How do you feel about open the way for meaningful conversations with people.
it? When you know a persons true feelings, this makes it (2) Read Romans chapter 3, taking special note of Pauls
possible for you as a teacher to be of the greatest help. use of questions to reason on the standing before God of
both Jews and Gentiles.
To Add Emphasis. Questions can also be used to add
(Colossians 4:6) Let your words always be gracious,
emphasis to thoughts. The apostle Paul did this, as recorded seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should
at Romans 8:31, 32: If God is for us, who will be against us? answer each person.
He who did not even spare his own Son but delivered him up
for us all, why will he not also with him kindly give us all *** w05 6/1 p. 32 Do You Converse With Those You Love?
other things? Observe that, in each case, the question builds ***
on the clause that immediately precedes it. Do You Converse With Those You Love?
After recording Jehovahs judgment against the king of
Babylon, the prophet Isaiah expressed strong conviction by OUR ability to communicate with loved ones is
adding: Jehovah of armies himself has counseled, and who decreasing dramatically, reports the Polish weekly Polityka.
can break it up? And his hand is the one stretched out, and In the United States, it is estimated that marriage mates spend
who can turn it back? (Isa. 14:27) By their very content, only six minutes a day conversing with each other in a
such questions indicate that the idea expressed cannot be meaningful way. Some authorities think that half of all
denied. No reply is expected. separations and divorces are the result of this decline.

To Expose Wrong Thinking. Questions that are carefully How about conversation between parents and children?
thought out are also powerful tools to expose wrong thinking. In most instances, it turns out to be, not a conversation, but
Before healing a man, Jesus asked the Pharisees and some an interrogation: How was school? How about your friends?
experts in the Law: Is it lawful on the sabbath to cure or observes the above report. How are our children to learn to
not? After performing the cure, he followed up with another develop emotional relationships? it asks.
question: Who of you, if his son or bull falls into a well, will
not immediately pull him out on the sabbath day? (Luke
56
Since good communication skills do not just happen, We show honor to others by listening to them. (Rom.
how can we improve our ability to converse? The Christian 12:10) It gives evidence that we value their thoughts and
disciple James gave us important advice: Every man must be feelings. It may even cause them to pay closer attention to
swift about hearing, slow about speaking, slow about wrath. what we have to say. With good reason, then, Gods Word
(James 1:19) Yes, to have an upbuilding conversation, we counsels us to be swift about hearing, slow about
need to listen attentively and not interrupt impatiently or speaking.Jas. 1:19.
jump to conclusions. Avoid criticism because it can easily
smother a conversation. Moreover, Jesus used tactful *** be study 13 p. 124-p. 125 Visual Contact ***
questions, not to interrogate, but to draw out what was in the
heart of his listener and to strengthen the bond between them. What do you need to do?
Proverbs 20:5; Matthew 16:13-17; 17:24-27.
Look at those to whom you are speaking,
Applying the fine principles found in the Bible, take the allowing your eyes to meet for a few
initiative to converse and communicate with those dear to seconds if that is acceptable locally. See
you. That may result in a warm relationship that will be individuals, not merely a group.
cherished for many yearseven a lifetime.
Why is it important?
In many cultures, eye contact is viewed as
Page 38 Unit 4 (b) an indication of interest in the person being
(Romans 12:10) In brotherly love have tender affection for addressed. It is also viewed as evidence that
one another. In showing honor to one another, take the lead. you speak with conviction.

*** be study 30 p. 187 pars. 1-5 Interest Shown in the OUR eyes communicate attitudes and emotions. They
Other Person *** may indicate surprise or fear. They may convey compassion
Listen Attentively. Although Jehovah is all-knowing, he or love. At times, they may betray doubt or give evidence of
listens to others. The prophet Micaiah received a vision in grief. Concerning his countrymen, who had suffered much,
which Jehovah was seen encouraging the angels to express an elderly man said: We speak with our eyes.
their ideas on the handling of a certain matter. God then Others may draw conclusions about us and about what
allowed one of the angels to carry out the suggestion the we say on the basis of where we focus our eyes. In many
angel had made. (1 Ki. 22:19-22) When Abraham expressed cultures, people tend to trust an individual who maintains
concern over the judgment that would be executed upon friendly eye contact with them. Conversely, they may doubt
Sodom, Jehovah graciously heard him out. (Gen. 18:23-33) the sincerity or competence of a person who looks at his feet
In our ministry, how can we imitate Jehovahs example of or at some object rather than at the one to whom he is talking.
listening? Some other cultures view any intensive eye contact as rude,
Encourage others to express themselves. Ask an aggressive, or challenging. This is especially the case when
appropriate question, and pause long enough for them to speaking with members of the opposite sex or to a chief or
reply. Really listen. Your thoughtful attention will encourage other titled person. And in some areas, if a younger person
them to speak freely. If their response reveals something were to make direct eye contact when speaking to an older
about their interests, tactfully inquire further. Without turning person, this would be viewed as disrespectful.
the conversation into a cross-examination, seek to get to However, where it is not offensive, looking an individual
know them better. Commend them for their thoughts if you in the eye when making an important statement can add
can do so sincerely. Even if you do not agree with their point emphasis to what is said. It may be viewed as evidence of
of view, be gracious in acknowledging their expressions. conviction on the part of the speaker. Notice how Jesus
Col. 4:6. responded when his disciples expressed great surprise and
We need to exercise caution, however, that our interest in said: Who really can be saved? The Bible reports:
people does not cross the line of propriety. Being concerned Looking them in the face, Jesus said to them: With men this
about others does not give us license to pry into their private is impossible, but with God all things are possible. (Matt.
affairs. (1 Pet. 4:15) We need to exercise care that a person of 19:25, 26) The Scriptures also show that the apostle Paul
the opposite sex does not misunderstand the kindly interest keenly observed the reactions of those in his audience. On
that we show. Since what is considered an appropriate degree one occasion a man lame from birth was present when Paul
of interest in others varies from land to land, even from spoke. Acts 14:9, 10 states: This man was listening to Paul
person to person, good judgment is needed.Luke 6:31. speak, who, on looking at him intently and seeing he had
faith to be made well, said with a loud voice: Stand up erect
Preparation is an aid to being a good listener. When our on your feet.
message is clear in our mind, it helps us to relax and to pay
attention to others in a natural way. This puts them at ease Suggestions for the Field Ministry. When you share in
and may make them more inclined to converse with us. the field ministry, be friendly and warm as you approach
people. Where appropriate, use thought-provoking questions
to start a conversation on something that may be of mutual

57
interest. As you do this, endeavor to establish eye contactor response and continuing with our prepared presentation, how
at least to look the person in the face in a respectful and much better it is to adapt and address their concerns.
kindly way. A warm smile on the face of one whose eyes
convey inner joy is very appealing. Such an expression may *** km 9/09 p. 1 par. 4 How Will You Answer? ***
tell the individual much about what sort of person you are 4
and help him to feel more relaxed as you converse. Should We Answer Every Question? If you do not
know the answer to a question, do not feel embarrassed to
Observing the expression in the persons eyes, where say: I dont know, but I can do research on your question
appropriate, may give you indications as to how to deal with and come back with the results of my research. Such
a situation. If the person is angry or if he is really not modesty and personal interest may move the householder to
interested, you may be able to see it. If he does not invite you to return. If you discern that a question comes from
understand you, you may realize that. If he is getting opposers who may be trying to start an argument, imitate
impatient, you will usually be able to tell. If he is keenly Jesus by limiting your response. (Luke 20:1-8) Similarly, if
interested, this too will be evident. The expression in his eyes someone with no genuine interest in the truth tries to engage
may alert you to the need to adjust your pace, to make added you in debate, politely discontinue the conversation and use
effort to involve him in the conversation, to terminate the your time searching for those who are sincere.Matt. 7:6.
discussion or, possibly, to follow through with a
demonstration of how to study the Bible. KM p 2/14 p. 1

Whether you are engaging in public witnessing or Improving Our skills in the ministry-Making a record
conducting a home Bible study, endeavor to maintain of the Interest
respectful eye contact with the one with whom you are
Pay constant attentions to yourself and to your
speaking. Do not stare at him, however, as that can be
teaching. (1 Tim 4:16) This inspired counsel from the
embarrassing. (2 Ki. 8:11) But in a natural, friendly manner,
apostle Paul to Timothy indicates that, whether we are new or
frequently look the other person in the face. In many lands,
experienced, we should endeavor to make progress. To help
this conveys a feeling of sincere interest. Of course, when
us do that, a new series entitled Improving Our Skills in the
you are reading from the Bible or some other publication,
Ministry will appear in Our Kingdom Ministry. Each article
your eyes will be focused on the printed page. But to
will discuss an important skill and provide some suggestions
emphasize a point, you may want to look directly at the
on how to develop it. During the month, all are encouraged
person, though doing so briefly. If you look up at intervals,
to give that skill special attention. After the month concludes,
this will also enable you to observe his reaction to what is
a Service Meeting part will give us an opportunity to
being read.
comment on how we benefited from concentrationg on that
If shyness makes visual contact difficult for you at first, skill. This month we are encouraged to work on making a
do not give up. With practice, appropriate visual contact will record of the interest.
become natural, and it may add to your effectiveness in
Why Important: to fulfill our commission, we must do
communicating with others.
more than preach. We must return to those who show interest
Be Adaptable When Presenting Bible Truths and teach them, watering the seeds of truth that we have
(1 Corinthians 9:19-22) For though I am free from all planted. (Matt 28:19,20; 1 Cor 3:6-9) This requires finding
people, I have made myself the slave to all, so that I may gain the person again, talking about his concerns, and building on
as many people as possible. 20 To the Jews I became as a Jew our previous conversation. Therefore, when we find interest,
in order to gain Jews; to those under law I became as under it is necessary to make a reocd of it.
law, though I myself am not under law, in order to gain those
under law. 21 To those without law I became as without law,
although I am not without law toward God but under law How to Do It:
toward Christ, in order to gain those without law. 22 To the
weak I became weak, in order to gain the weak. I have - Make sure that you have tools in your witnessing
become all things to people of all sorts, so that I might by all case for recording interest. Keep your records nest,
possible means save some. well-organized, and up-to-date. Make a record as
soon as you finish the call.
Page 39 - Write down information about the householder.
Unit 4 (b) What is his name and contact information, such as
his address, phone number, or e-mail address?
*** km 6/13 p. 1 par. 3 Are You Willing to Adapt? *** What did you observe about him and his family that
3
Your Presentation: What are the people in your area may be significant?
presently concerned about? The economy? Family? War? It is - Write down the details of your conversation. What
beneficial to be aware of the current problems and scriptures did you read? What did he say about his
circumstances common in our territory so that we can prepare beliefs? What Literature did you leave? Record
an appropriate presentation. (1 Cor. 9:20-23) When the time, the day of the week, and the date of the
householders express themselves, rather than giving a token visit.
58
- Write down what you plan to do next time. What (John 14:31) But for the world to know that I love the Father,
did you promise to discuss? When did you say you I am doing just as the Father has commanded me to do. Get
would return? up, let us go from here.
- Update your record each time you return. No harm
*** cf p. 76 Teaching . . . and Preaching the
is done if you write down more information than Good News ***
you need. Section 2
Teaching . . . and Preaching the Good News
Page 40 Unit 4 (b)

(Philippians 2:4) as you look out not only for your own
Carpenter. Miracle worker. Healer. Jesus was
interests, but also for the interests of others. all of these and more. Yet, people did not use such
terms when addressing him. They called him
Page 41 Unit 5 (a)
From House to houseOur Prinipal Way of Preaching Teacher. Indeed, his lifework was teaching . . . and
preaching the good news. (Matthew 4:23) As
OPENING DISCUSSION followers of Jesus, we have the same work to do.
In this section, we will study his example, which
(Matthew 10:11-14) Into whatever city or village you enter,
search out who in it is deserving, and stay there until you
shows us the way.
leave. 12 When you enter the house, greet the household. 13 If
the house is deserving, let the peace you wish it come upon it; *** cf chap. 8 pp. 77-81 For This I Was Sent Forth ***
but if it is not deserving, let the peace from you return upon Chapter 8
you. 14 Wherever anyone does not receive you or listen to For This I Was Sent Forth
your words, on going out of that house or that city, shake the
dust off your feet. THEY have been walking for hours. Jesus and his
(Luke 9:6) Then starting out, they went through the territory apostles are trekking northward, heading from Judea toward
from village to village, declaring the good news and Galilee. The shortest routea journey of about three days
performing cures everywhere. takes them through Samaria. As the sun nears its zenith, they
approach a small city named Sychar, where they stop for
*** bt chap. 5 p. 41 par. 16 We Must Obey God as refreshment.
Ruler *** 2
While his apostles go to buy food, Jesus rests by a well
16
The apostles wasted no time in resuming their outside the city. A woman approaches to draw water. Jesus
witnessing work. Undaunted, they continued every day in could choose to ignore her. He is tired out from the journey.
the temple and from house to house the work of declaring (John 4:6) It would be understandable if he just closed his
the good news about the Christ. (Acts 5:42) These zealous eyes and let this Samaritan woman come and go unnoticed.
preachers were determined to bear thorough witness. Notice As we saw in Chapter 4 of this book, the woman would likely
that they took their message to the homes of people, as Jesus expect any Jew to treat her with disdain. Yet, Jesus strikes up
Christ had directed them. (Matt. 10:7, 11-14) No doubt, that a conversation with her.
is how they had managed to fill Jerusalem with their 3
He opens with an illustration, one taken from the
teaching. Today, Jehovahs Witnesses are known for womans daily lifeindeed, from this very moment. She is
following that apostolic method of preaching. By calling at here to draw water; Jesus speaks of life-giving water that will
each house in our territory, we clearly demonstrate that we quench her spiritual thirst. Several times, she raises points
too want to be thorough, giving everyone an opportunity to that are potentially controversial. Jesus tactfully sidesteps
hear the good news. Has Jehovah blessed our house-to-house such issues and keeps the conversation on track. He focuses
ministry? Yes, he has! Millions have responded to the on spiritual matterspure worship and Jehovah God. His
Kingdom message in this time of the end, and many first words have far-reaching effects, for the woman relays them
heard the good news when a Witness knocked on their door. to the men of the city, and they too want to listen to Jesus.
John 4:3-42.
QUESTION OUTLINE
Jesus Attidtude Toward His Preaching 4
Upon their return, how do the apostles feel about the
Assignment remarkable witness that Jesus is giving here? There is no sign
of enthusiasm on their part. They are surprised that Jesus is
(Luke 4:43) But he said to them: I must also declare the even talking to this woman, and evidently they say nothing to
good news of the Kingdom of God to other cities, because for her. After she leaves, they keep urging Jesus to eat the food
this I was sent. they have brought. However, Jesus says to them: I have food
to eat of which you do not know. Puzzled, they take his
(John 4:34) Jesus said to them: My food is to do the will of
words literally at first. Then he explains: My food is for me
him who sent me and to finish his work.
to do the will of him that sent me and to finish his work.
(John 4:32, 34) Jesus thus teaches them that his main work in
59
life is more important to him than eating. He wants them to read the hearts of the people to whom they preach. However,
feel the same way about it. What is this work? we can take an interest in people, as Jesus did; we can let our
5
concern for them show; and we can tailor our words to meet
Jesus once said: I must declare the good news of the their particular interests, challenges, and needs.
kingdom of God, because for this I was sent forth. (Luke
4:43) Yes, Jesus was sent to preach and to teach the good *** cf chap. 8 pp. 84-86 For This I Was Sent Forth ***
news of Gods Kingdom. Jesus followers today have the
same work to do. It is vital, then, that we consider why Jesus Jesus Attitude Toward His Ministry
preached, what he preached, and what his attitude toward his 16
assignment was. Jesus felt that his ministry was a precious treasure. He
delighted in helping people to see his heavenly Father as He
Why Jesus Preached truly is, unobscured by confusing man-made doctrines and
6
traditions. Jesus loved helping people gain an approved
Let us consider how Jesus felt about the truths he relationship with Jehovah and the hope of everlasting life. He
taught; then we will discuss his attitude toward the people he delighted in bringing people the comfort and joy of the good
taught. Jesus used a vivid illustration to show how he felt news. How did he show that he had such feelings? Consider
about sharing with others the truths Jehovah had taught him. three ways.
He said: Every public instructor, when taught respecting the
17
kingdom of the heavens, is like a man, a householder, who First, Jesus made the ministry the primary focus of his
brings out of his treasure store things new and old. (Matthew life. Talking about the Kingdom was his career, his lifework,
13:52) Why does the householder in this illustration bring his central interest. That is why, as we noted in Chapter 5,
things out of his treasure store? Jesus wisely kept his life simple. As he counseled others, he
7
kept his eye focused on what mattered most. He was not
The householder is not simply showing off his distracted by a lot of things that he would have to pay for,
possessions, the way King Hezekiah of old once didwith maintain, and repair or replace as time went on. He lived
painful consequences. (2 Kings 20:13-20) What does simply so that nothing would needlessly pull him away from
motivate the householder? Consider an illustration: You visit his ministry.Matthew 6:22; 8:20.
a favorite teacher in his home. He opens a desk drawer and
18
pulls out a couple of lettersone of them yellowed with age, Second, Jesus expended himself in his ministry. He
the other newer. They are letters that he received from his devoted immense energy to it, walking literally hundreds of
fatherone of them decades ago when the teacher was but a miles throughout Palestine, seeking out people with whom he
boy, the other in recent times. His eyes gleam with pleasure might share the good news. He spoke to them in their homes,
as he tells you how much he values these letters and how the in public squares, in marketplaces, and out in the open. He
advice they contain has changed his life and could help you. spoke to them even when he was in need of rest, food, water,
The letters are clearly treasured by the teacher, holding a or a little quiet time with his closest friends. Even as he was
cherished place in his heart. (Luke 6:45) He shares them with dying, he continued to share with others the good news of
you, not to boast or to profit in some way, but to benefit you Gods Kingdom!Luke 23:39-43.
and to convey to you a sense of their worth. 19
Third, Jesus treated the ministry as something urgent.
8
The Great Teacher, Jesus, had similar motives in Remember his conversation with the Samaritan woman at the
sharing Gods truths with others. To him, those truths were well outside of Sychar. Jesus apostles apparently did not see
treasures beyond price. He loved them, and he was eager to in that situation an urgent need to share the good news with
share them. He wanted all his followers, every public others. Jesus said to them: Do you not say that there are yet
instructor, to feel that way. Do we? We have ample reason to four months before the harvest comes? Look! I say to you:
love every truth we learn from Gods Word. We treasure gems Lift up your eyes and view the fields, that they are white for
of truth whether they are long-cherished beliefs or recent harvesting.John 4:35.
refinements. By speaking with heartfelt enthusiasm and 20
maintaining our love for what Jehovah has taught us, we Jesus drew that illustration from the season at hand. It
convey that love, as Jesus did. was evidently the month of Chislev (November/December).
The barley harvest would not come for another four months,
9
Jesus also loved the people he taught, as we will discuss about the time of Passover, on Nisan 14. So farmers did not
more fully in Section 3. Prophecy foretold that the Messiah feel any urgency about the harvest just then. It was still a long
would feel sorry for the lowly one and the poor one. (Psalm way off. But what about the harvest of people? Ah, many
72:13) Indeed, Jesus cared about people. He cared about the were ready to hear, to learn, to become Christs disciples and
thoughts and attitudes that drove them; he was concerned gain the marvelous hope that Jehovah held out to them. It was
about the burdens that weighed them down and the obstacles as if Jesus could look out over those figurative fields and see
that hindered them from grasping the truth. (Matthew 11:28; that they were white with all the ripe grain swaying gently in
16:13; 23:13, 15) Recall the Samaritan woman, for example. the breeze, signaling their readiness to be harvested. The time
No doubt she was greatly impressed that Jesus took an was at hand, and the work was urgent! Consequently, when
interest in her. His insight into her personal situation moved people of one city tried to keep Jesus with them, he replied:
her to accept him as a prophet and to tell others about him. Also to other cities I must declare the good news of the
(John 4:16-19, 39) Granted, Jesus followers today cannot

60
kingdom of God, because for this I was sent forth.Luke of Christ, including us today. Let us take a closer look at
4:43. Jesus words recorded at Matthew 28:18-20.
21 15
In all three ways just discussed, we can imitate Jesus. Before giving the commission, Jesus says: All
We can make the Christian ministry the primary focus of our authority has been given me in heaven and on the earth.
life. Even though we may have family and secular (Verse 18) Does Jesus really have such vast authority? Yes,
obligations, we can show that our ministry comes first by indeed! He is the archangel, commanding myriads of myriads
having a zealous, regular share in it, as Jesus did. (Matthew of angels. (1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 12:7) As head
6:33; 1 Timothy 5:8) We can expend ourselves in the of the congregation, he has authority over his followers on
ministry, giving generously of our time, energy, and resources earth. (Ephesians 5:23) Since 1914, he has been ruling as
to support it. (Luke 13:24) And we can keep ever in mind that Messianic King in heaven. (Revelation 11:15) His authority
our work is urgent. (2 Timothy 4:2) We need to seize every reaches even into the grave, for he has the power to resurrect
opportunity to preach! the dead. (John 5:26-28) By first declaring his extensive
22
authority, Jesus indicates that the words that follow are not a
Jesus also showed that he saw the importance of the suggestion but a command. We are wise to obey, for his
work by ensuring that it would continue after his death. He authority is not self-assumed but divinely bestowed.
commissioned his followers to carry on the preaching and 1 Corinthians 15:27.
teaching work. That commission will be the subject of the
16
following chapter. Jesus now outlines the commission, which begins with
a single word: Go. (Verse 19) He thus calls upon us to take
Page 42 Unit 5 (a) the initiative to reach others with the Kingdom message. In
fulfilling this aspect of the commission, there is room for a
(John 18:36, 37) Jesus answered: My Kingdom is no part of variety of methods. Preaching from house to house is a most
this world. If my Kingdom were part of this world, my effective way to make personal contact with people. (Acts
attendants would have fought that I should not be handed 20:20) We also look for opportunities to witness informally;
over to the Jews. But as it is, my Kingdom is not from this we are eager to initiate a conversation about the good news
source. 37 So Pilate said to him: Well, then, are you a king? wherever appropriate in the course of our daily life. Our
Jesus answered: You yourself are saying that I am a king. specific methods of preaching may vary, being adapted to
For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the local needs and circumstances. One thing, though, remains
world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who the same: We go and search for deserving ones.Matthew
is on the side of the truth listens to my voice. 10:11.
17
*** w13 5/15 p. 9 par. 4 Are You Zealous for Fine Jesus next explains the objective of the commission,
Works? *** namely, to make disciples of people of all the nations.
(Verse 19) How do we make disciples? Basically, a disciple
4
Consider, too, Jesus zeal. He set a perfect example of is a learner, a taught one. Making disciples, however, is not
zealous perseverance in the ministry. Despite bitter merely a matter of imparting knowledge to others. When we
opposition, he maintained his zeal for the preaching work study the Bible with interested ones, our goal is to help them
right to the painful end of his earthly life. (John 18:36, 37) As to become followers of Christ. Whenever possible, we
the time for his sacrificial death drew near, Jesus highlight Jesus example so that our students learn to look to
determination to help others come to know Jehovah him as their Teacher and Model, living the way he lived and
intensified. doing the work he did.John 13:15.
18
(Matthew 28:18-20) Jesus approached and spoke to A vital part of the commission is expressed in the
them, saying: All authority has been given me in heaven and words: Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the
on the earth. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of Son and of the holy spirit. (Verse 19) Baptism is the most
all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and important milestone in a disciples life, for it is a fitting
of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them to observe symbol of his wholehearted dedication to God. Thus, it is
all the things I have commanded you. And look! I am with essential for salvation. (1 Peter 3:21) Yes, by continuing to do
you all the days until the conclusion of the system of things. his best in serving Jehovah, the baptized disciple can look
forward to endless blessings in the new world to come. Have
*** cf chap. 9 pp. 94-97 Go . . . and Make Disciples *** you helped someone to become a baptized disciple of Christ?
In the Christian ministry, there is no greater cause for joy.
A Commission That Involves Us 3 John 4.
14
With the words Go . . . and make disciples, the 19
Jesus explains the next part of the commission, saying:
resurrected Jesus placed a heavy responsibility upon his Teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded
followers. He had in mind more than just the disciples who you. (Verse 20) We teach new ones to heed Jesus
were present that spring day on the mountain in Galilee. The commands, including the commands to love God, to love
work he commissioned involves reaching people of all the neighbor, and to be disciple makers. (Matthew 22:37-39) We
nations, and it continues until the conclusion of the system progressively teach them to explain Bible truths and defend
of things. Clearly, this commission applies to all followers their growing faith. When they qualify to participate in the
61
public preaching activity, we work along with them, teaching Jesus Christ had a profound effect on others. Even a brief
them by word and example how to have a meaningful share encounter with him could be very refreshing. For example,
in this work. The teaching of new disciples is not necessarily the Gospel writer Mark relates: [Jesus] took the children into
finished prior to their baptism. Newly baptized ones may his arms and began blessing them, laying his hands upon
need additional instruction to help them meet the challenges them. (Mark 10:16) How refreshing that must have been for
involved in following Christ.Luke 9:23, 24. those young ones!
On his last night on earth as a human, Jesus washed the
feet of his disciples. His humility must have touched their
Jesus Expressed His Love and Compassion hearts. Jesus then told them: I set the pattern for you, that,
Through His Preaching just as I did to you, you should do also. (John 13:1-17) Yes,
they too needed to be humble. Although the apostles did not
(Matthew 9:36) On seeing the crowds, he felt pity for them, immediately grasp the point and later that night began
because they were skinned and thrown about like sheep arguing about which one of them seemed to be the greatest,
without a shepherd. Jesus did not become provoked. Instead, he patiently
reasoned with them. (Luke 22:24-27) Even when he was
being reviled, [Jesus] did not go reviling in return. In fact,
(Luke 5:29-32) Then Levi spread a big reception feast for
when he was suffering, he did not go threatening, but kept
him in his house, and there was a large crowd of tax
on committing himself to the one who judges righteously.
collectors and others who were dining with them. 30 At this
Jesus refreshing example is worthy of imitation.1 Peter
the Pharisees and their scribes began murmuring to his
2:21, 23.
disciples, saying: Why do you eat and drink with tax
collectors and sinners? 31 In reply Jesus said to them: Those Jesus said: Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,
who are healthy do not need a physician, but those who are ill for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find
do. 32 I have come to call, not righteous people, but sinners to refreshment for your souls. (Matthew 11:29) Imagine being
repentance. instructed by Jesus firsthand. After hearing him teach in their
(John 1:47) Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and synagogue, those in his home territory were astounded and
said about him: See, truly an Israelite in whom there is no said: Where did this man get this wisdom and these
deceit. powerful works? (Matthew 13:54) Reading about Jesus life
(Isaiah 63:9) During all their distress it was distressing to and ministry can teach us much about being refreshing to
him. And his own personal messenger saved them. In his love others. Let us consider how Jesus set an outstanding example
and compassion he repurchased them, And he lifted them up through positive speech and by having a helpful attitude.
and carried them all the days of old. Maintaining Positive Speech
(Jonah 4:11) Should I not also feel sorry for Nineveh the
great city, in which there are more than 120,000 men who do It is much easier to destroy a building than to put up a
not even know right from wrong, as well as their many new one. That same principle of tearing down and building
animals? up applies to our speech. As imperfect humans, all of us have
faults and shortcomings. King Solomon said: There is no
man righteous in the earth that keeps doing good and does not
*** w07 11/15 pp. 15-17 Are You Refreshing to Others? sin. (Ecclesiastes 7:20) It does not take much to identify
*** another persons faults and tear him down with cutting
Are You Refreshing to Others? remarks. (Psalm 64:2-4) On the other hand, keeping our
speech positive requires skill.
AT THE southern end of the Anti-Lebanon Mountain
range stands Mount Hermon, with its majestic summit rising Jesus used his tongue to build people up. He offered
9,232 feet [2,814 m] above sea level. For most of the year, them spiritual refreshment by proclaiming the good news of
Hermons peak is snowcapped, and this causes the warm the Kingdom to them. (Luke 8:1) Jesus also refreshed those
night vapors passing over it to condense and produce dew. who became his disciples by revealing his heavenly Father to
The dew descends on the fir and fruit trees on the lower them. (Matthew 11:25-27) No wonder people were drawn to
slopes and on the vineyards down below. During ancient Jesus!
Israels long dry season, such refreshing dew was the In contrast, the scribes and Pharisees did not consider the
principal source of moisture for vegetation. needs of others. They like the most prominent place at
In a divinely inspired song, the refreshing unity among evening meals and the front seats in the synagogues, said
Jehovahs worshippers is likened to the dew of Hermon that Jesus. (Matthew 23:6) In fact, they looked down on the
is descending upon the mountains of Zion. (Psalm 133:1, 3) common people, saying: This crowd that does not know the
Just as Mount Hermon supplies refreshing dew to the Law are accursed people. (John 7:49) There certainly was
vegetation, we can spread refreshment to those whom we nothing refreshing about that attitude!
meet. How can we do so? Our speech is often a reflection of what we are inside and
Jesus Refreshing Example how we view others. Jesus said: A good man brings forth
good out of the good treasure of his heart, but a wicked man
62
brings forth what is wicked out of his wicked treasure; for out encouragement. We might also make a mental note of those
of the hearts abundance his mouth speaks. (Luke 6:45) who are missing from the Congregation Book Study we
What, then, can we do to make sure that our speech is attend. Perhaps we can reach them by telephone and express
refreshing to others? our interest in their welfare or offer assistance.Philippians
2:4.
For one thing, we can pause and think before we speak.
Proverbs 15:28 states: The heart of the righteous one Christian elders carry a heavy load of responsibility in
meditates so as to answer. Such meditation need not be a the congregation. We can do much to help lighten their load
long-drawn-out process. With a little forethought, we can by being cooperative and by humbly following through on
usually determine how our comments will be received. We any assignment that we may receive. Gods Word urges us:
could ask ourselves: Is what I am about to say loving? Is it Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and
truthful, or is it simply hearsay? Is it a word at its right be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as
time? Will it refresh and upbuild those with whom I share those who will render an account; that they may do this with
it? (Proverbs 15:23) If we conclude that the thought is joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you.
negative or untimely, let us make a conscientious effort to (Hebrews 13:17) By displaying a willing spirit, we can
dismiss it. Better yet, why not try to replace it with something refresh those who preside in a fine way.1 Timothy 5:17.
more positive and appropriate? Thoughtless words are like
the stabs of a sword, while positive comments are a Abound in Positive Speech and Helpful Deeds
healing.Proverbs 12:18. Refreshing dew results from thousands of tiny water
Another help is to focus on what makes our fellow droplets that gently descend, seemingly out of nowhere.
believers precious in Gods eyes. Jesus said: No man can Likewise, bringing refreshment to others is not as likely to
come to me unless the Father, who sent me, draws him. result from just one noble act as it is from the cumulative
(John 6:44) Jehovah sees positive qualities in each of his effects of our displaying Christlike qualities at all times.
faithful servantseven those who we may feel have a In brotherly love have tender affection for one another,
challenging personality. By putting forth effort to identify wrote the apostle Paul. In showing honor to one another take
their good qualities, we will have reason to speak positively the lead. (Romans 12:10) Let us apply Pauls counsel. By
about them. our speech and actions, may we really be refreshing to others
Help Others
Jesus fully understood the plight of the oppressed. (Psalm 72:13) He will have pity on the lowly and the poor,
Indeed, on seeing the crowds he felt pity for them, because And the lives of the poor he will save.
they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a (Matthew 11:28) Come to me, all you who are toiling and
shepherd. (Matthew 9:36) But Jesus went beyond seeing loaded down, and I will refresh you.
their pitiable condition; he did something about it. He (Matthew 16:13) When he had come into the region of
extended the invitation: Come to me, all you who are toiling Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples: Who are
and loaded down, and I will refresh you. He also gave this men saying the Son of man is?
assurance: My yoke is kindly and my load is light.
Matthew 11:28, 30. (Matthew 23:13) Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
hypocrites! because you shut up the Kingdom of the heavens
Today, we live in critical times hard to deal with. before men; for you yourselves do not go in, neither do you
(2 Timothy 3:1) Many people feel weighed down by the permit those on their way in to go in.
anxiety of this system of things. (Matthew 13:22) Others (Matthew 23:15) Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
have the burden of distressing personal circumstances. hypocrites! because you travel over sea and dry land to make
(1 Thessalonians 5:14) How can we supply refreshment to one proselyte, and when he becomes one, you make him a
those in need? Like Christ, we can help to lighten their load. subject for Gehenna twice as much so as yourselves.
Some people seek to unburden themselves by talking Boldness in the house-toHouse Work
about their problems. If downhearted individuals come to us (Acts 4:31) And when they had made supplication, the place
for help, do we take the time to listen carefully? Being an where they were gathered together was shaken, and they were
empathetic listener requires self-discipline. It involves one and all filled with the holy spirit and were speaking the
staying focused on what the other person is saying, rather word of God with boldness.
than thinking about how to respond or how to fix the (1 Thessalonians 2:2) For although we had first suffered and
problem. By listening closely, maintaining eye contact, and been insolently treated in Philippi, as you know, we
smiling when doing so is appropriate, we show that we care. mustered up boldness by means of our God to tell you the
In the Christian congregation, there are many good news of God in the face of much opposition.
opportunities to encourage fellow believers. For instance,
when attending meetings at the Kingdom Hall, we can seek *** bt chap. 4 pp. 32-35 pars. 13-17 Men Unlettered and
out those who are struggling with health problems. Ordinary ***
Sometimes all it takes to build them up is a few minutes
before or after the meeting to offer them words of
63
13
Immediately after being released from custody, Peter (Proverbs 27:11) Be wise, my son, and make my heart
and John met with the rest of the congregation. Together, rejoice, So that I can make a reply to him who taunts me.
they . . . raised their voices to God and prayed for courage (Acts 20:26, 27) So I call you to witness this very day that I
to keep preaching. (Acts 4:24) Peter knew only too well the am clean from the blood of all men, 27 for I have not held
folly of trusting in personal power when attempting to do back from telling you all the counsel of God.
Gods will. Just weeks earlier, he had self-confidently told
(2 Thessalonians 1:8, 9) in a flaming fire, as he brings
Jesus: Although all the others are stumbled in connection
vengeance on those who do not know God and those who do
with you, never will I be stumbled! Yet, as Jesus foretold,
not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus. 9 These very
Peter quickly succumbed to fear of man and denied his friend
ones will undergo the judicial punishment of everlasting
and teacher. However, Peter learned from his mistake.Matt.
destruction from before the Lord and from the glory of his
26:33, 34, 69-75.
strength,
14
Determination alone will not sustain you as you fulfill (2 Peter 3:11-14) Since all these things are to be dissolved in
your commission to be a witness of Christ. When opposers this way, consider what sort of people you ought to be in holy
try to break your faith or attempt to stop you from preaching, acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion, 12 as you await
follow the example of Peter and John. Pray to Jehovah for and keep close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah,
strength. Seek the support of the congregation. Tell the elders through which the heavens will be destroyed in flames and
and other mature ones of the difficulties you face. The the elements will melt in the intense heat! 13 But there are
prayers of others can be a powerful sustaining force.Eph. new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according
6:18; Jas. 5:16. to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.
14
15 Therefore, beloved ones, since you are awaiting these
If you once succumbed to pressure and stopped
things, do your utmost to be found finally by him spotless and
preaching for a time, take heart. Remember, all the apostles
unblemished and in peace.
stopped preaching for a while after Jesus death but soon
were active again. (Matt. 26:56; 28:10, 16-20) Rather than (Luke 11:13) Therefore, if you, although being wicked, know
letting past mistakes weigh you down, can you draw on the how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so
experience and use the lessons you learned to strengthen will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking
others? him!
16 (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Pray constantly.
What should we pray for when those in authority
oppress us? Notice, please, that the disciples did not ask that
they be spared from facing trials. They well remembered *** w08 7/15 p. 8 pars. 4-5 Meeting the Challenges of the
Jesus statement: If they have persecuted me, they will House-to-House Ministry ***
persecute you also. (John 15:20) Instead, these loyal 4
You no doubt recognize that the global preaching work
disciples asked Jehovah to give attention to the threats of is being accomplished, not by human power or wisdom, but
the opposers. (Acts 4:29) The disciples clearly saw the big by Gods spirit. (Zech. 4:6) That is also true of the ministry of
picture, recognizing that the persecution they faced was individual Christians. (2 Cor. 4:7) Consider the apostle Paul.
actually a fulfillment of prophecy. They knew that, as Jesus Recalling a time when he and his missionary companion were
had taught them to pray, Gods will would be done on earth, mistreated by opposers, he wrote: After we had first suffered
no matter what mere human rulers may say.Matt. 6:9, 10. and been insolently treated . . . in Philippi, we mustered up
17
In order to do Gods will, the disciples prayed to boldness by means of our God to speak to you the good news
Jehovah: Grant your slaves to keep speaking your word with of God with a great deal of struggling. (1 Thess. 2:2; Acts
all boldness. What was Jehovahs immediate response? The 16:22-24) We may find it hard to imagine that a zealous
place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and preacher like Paul had times when it was a struggle for him to
they were one and all filled with the holy spirit and were preach. Yet, like all of us, Paul had to lean on Jehovah in
speaking the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:29-31) order to speak the good news with boldness. (Read Ephesians
Nothing can stop Gods will from being accomplished. (Isa. 6:18-20.) How can we imitate Pauls example?
55:11) No matter how great the odds, no matter how powerful 5
One way we muster up boldness to preach is through
the opponent, if we raise our voice to God in prayer, we can prayer. A pioneer said: I pray that I can speak with
be sure that He will grant us the strength to keep on speaking confidence, pray that I can reach the hearts of people, and
His word with boldness pray that I can find joy in the ministry. After all, this is
(Romans 12:18) If possible, as far as it depends on you, be Jehovahs work, not our own, so we can do nothing without
peaceable with all men. his help. (1 Thess. 5:17) All of us need to pray continually
(Colossians 4:6) Let your words always be gracious, for the help of Gods holy spirit to preach with boldness.
seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should Luke 11:9-13.
answer each person.
The joys of house-toHouse Preaching
Page 43
Unit 5 (a) *** km 9/06 p. 8 Witnessing From House to House ***
Witnessing From House to House
64
1
Those experienced in the various ways of spreading ascending smoke was a restful odor that pleased Jehovah.
the Truth will agree that the house to house canvass with (Ex. 29:18) Today, we are urged to offer to God a sacrifice
MILLENNIAL DAWN is, in the present time, by far the most of praise, that is, the fruit of lips which make public
effective way of preaching the Truth. That statement from declaration to his name. (Heb. 13:15) Instead of using
the July 1, 1893, issue of Zions Watch Tower highlighted the sacrifices prescribed by the Law, we worship Jehovah by
value of the house-to-house ministry. People earth wide have recounting his praises without letup.Isa. 43:21; Acts 5:42.
come to view it as a trademark of Jehovahs Witnesses. Is this 2
method still of value, since it is increasingly difficult to find Jesus Christ, the greatest Witness ever to walk this
people at home in some lands? earth, taught us how we must carry on pure worship by
offering sacrifices of praise. He taught his disciples that there
2
Scriptural and Important: House-to-house witnessing was an urgency to the message they preached. He knew that
has a Scriptural basis. Jesus instructed 70 disciples to go by the most effective way to reach people with the good news
twos to the houses of the people. (Luke 10:5-7) Shortly after was to talk to them personally in their homes. (Matt. 10:7, 12)
Jesus death, the Bible says of his disciples: Every day in the So we find that the apostles followed his divinely inspired
temple and from house to house they continued without letup direction to preach from house to house.Acts 20:20.
teaching and declaring the good news. (Acts 5:42) The 3
apostle Paul also zealously taught from house to house. It is no different today. As Jesus disciples, true
Acts 20:20. Christians follow his example by preaching the good news
from house to house. Though we may be criticized and
3
Witnessing from house to house continues to be an persecuted for that, millions have learned the truth and
important method of spreading the good news today. It hundreds of thousands of new disciples are joining the ranks
enables us to search out deserving ones in a systematic and of the great crowd each year, giving evidence that this is
orderly way. (Matt. 10:11) People are generally more relaxed Jehovahs way of accomplishing his will. That is why we
at home. Speaking with them face-to-facehearing their persevere in our ministry.
voice, seeing their facial expressions, and observing their 4
surroundingsallows us to discern their interests and Benefits of Preaching From House to House: God is
concerns. It usually gives us the best opportunity to engage in not partial . . . The man that fears him and works
extended conversation. righteousness is acceptable to him. (Acts 10:34, 35) Going
directly to each house in our territory clearly demonstrates
4
Make Personal Adjustments: The apostle Paul was impartiality, giving everyone opportunity to hear the
willing to make personal adjustments for the sake of the Kingdom message regularly. In turn receptive ones receive
good news. (1 Cor. 9:23) Perhaps we can adjust our schedule personalized assistance according to their individual needs.
to preach when more people are likely to be at home, such as 5
later in the day, on weekends, or on holidays. Keep a record Almost all publishers, including younger ones, the
of not-at-homes, and try again on a different day of the week elderly, and even those who are new, can participate in the
or at a different time of the day. house-to-house work. In this way each one can make public
declaration for salvation. (Rom. 10:10) Participation with
5
Even those with health limitations may be able to share others in the house-to-house ministry draws us together in the
in preaching from house to house. Perhaps we can make it a bonds of love and unity. At the same time, we are given an
point to take such ones with us to homes that are easily opportunity to display our endurance when we encounter
accessible, allowing them to work at a comfortable pace. One indifference or opposition. This public display of faith makes
sisters shortness of breath allowed her to call at only one us a theatrical spectacle, which helps sincere ones to realize
house every half hour. Yet, how happy and satisfied she felt that we have an organized arrangement for teaching the Bible
after being included in the group! and that they can benefit from it. (1 Cor. 4:9) Everything
6
clearly shows that Jehovah is blessing the house-to-house
Many sheeplike ones continue to be found in the door- work and using it to gather the great crowd to his house of
to-door work. One publisher knocked on a door and was told: pure worship.Isa. 2:2-4.
Come in. I know who you are. I have been praying for God
6
to send someone to help me, and then I heard the knock at the Now more than at any other time in history, people need
door. He heard me and sent you. The results give evidence to hear the Kingdom message. Let us keep on preaching from
that Jehovah is blessing this method of preaching. (Matt. house to house without letup until Jehovah says it is enough.
11:19) Be determined to make house-to-house witnessing a (Isa. 6:11) Doing so, we will be rewarded with the joy that
regular feature of your ministry. comes from sharing in the important and beneficial house-to-
(Luke 10:17) Then the 70 returned with joy, saying: Lord, house ministry in this time of the end.1 Cor. 15:58.
even the demons are made subject to us by the use of your (Matthew 6:21) For where your treasure is, there your heart
name. will be also.
(Matthew 9:36) On seeing the crowds, he felt pity for them,
*** km 7/94 p. 1 House to House Without Letup *** because they were skinned and thrown about like sheep
House to House Without Letup without a shepherd.
1
In ancient Israel, sacrifices were offered daily. (Ex.
29:38-42) The fire of the altar was kept burning; the
65
(Galatians 5:22, 23) On the other hand, the fruitage of the 19 He then entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 Now
spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, a man named Zacchaeus was there; he was a chief tax
23
mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. collector, and he was rich. 3 Well, he was trying to see who
(2 Timothy 2:15) Do your utmost to present yourself this Jesus was, but he could not see because of the crowd,
approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, since he was short. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore
handling the word of the truth aright. tree in order to see him, for he was about to pass that way.
5
Now when Jesus got to the place, he looked up and said to
(Hebrews 6:9-11) But in your case, beloved ones, we are
him: Zacchaeus, hurry and get down, for today I must stay
convinced of better things, things related to salvation, even
in your house. 6 With that he hurried down and joyfully
though we are speaking in this way. 10 For God is not
welcomed him as a guest. 7 When they saw this, they were all
unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you
muttering: He went as a guest to the house of a man who is a
showed for his name by ministering and continuing to
sinner. 8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord:
minister to the holy ones. 11 But we desire each one of you to
Look! The half of my belongings, Lord, I am giving to the
show the same industriousness so as to have the full
poor, and whatever I extorted from anyone, I am restoring
assurance of the hope down to the end,
four times over. 9 At this Jesus said to him: Today salvation
(1 Peter 3:13-15) Indeed, who will harm you if you become has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham.
zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for 10
For the Son of man came to seek and to save what was
the sake of righteousness, you are happy. However, do not lost.
fear what they fear, nor be disturbed. 15 But sanctify the
(Matthew 10:22) And you will be hated by all people on
Christ as Lord in your hearts, always ready to make a defense
account of my name, but the one who has endured to the end
before everyone who demands of you a reason for the hope
will be saved.
you have, but doing so with a mild temper and deep respect.

Page 45 Unit 5 (b)


Page 44 Unit 5 (a)
Imitate Jesus in Your Ministry Workshop 1
(Matthew 9:35-38) And Jesus set out on a tour of all the
cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and From House to House-Our Principal Way of Preaching
preaching the good news of the Kingdom and curing every
sort of disease and every sort of infirmity. 36 On seeing the OPENING DISCUSSION
crowds, he felt pity for them, because they were skinned and
thrown about like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said (Luke 10:1-12) After these things the Lord designated 70
to his disciples: Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are others and sent them out by twos ahead of him into every city
few. 38 Therefore, beg the Master of the harvest to send out and place where he himself was to go. 2 Then he said to them:
workers into his harvest. Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore,
(Mark 1:35-39) Early in the morning, while it was still dark, beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his
he got up and went outside and left for an isolated place, and harvest. 3 Go! Look! I am sending you out as lambs in among
there he began praying. 36 However, Simon and those with wolves. 4 Do not carry a money bag or a food pouch or
him hunted him down 37 and found him, and they said to him: sandals, and do not greet anyone along the road. 5 Wherever
Everyone is looking for you. 38 But he said to them: Let us you enter into a house, say first: May this house have peace.
6
go somewhere else, into the towns nearby, so that I may And if a friend of peace is there, your peace will rest upon
preach there also, for this is why I have come. 39 And he him. But if there is not, it will return to you. 7 So stay in that
went, preaching in their synagogues throughout the whole of house, eating and drinking the things they provide, for the
Galilee and expelling the demons. worker is worthy of his wages. Do not keep transferring from
(Luke 18:35-19:10) Now as Jesus was getting near to Jer house to house. 8 Also, wherever you enter into a city and
icho, a blind man was sitting beside the road begging. they receive you, eat what is set before you 9 and cure the
36
Because he heard a crowd passing by, he began to inquire sick ones in it and tell them: The Kingdom of God has come
what was going on. 37 They reported to him: Jesus the near to you. 10 But wherever you enter into a city and they do
Nazarene is passing by! 38 At that he cried out: Jesus, Son not receive you, go out into its main streets and say: 11 We
of David, have mercy on me! 39 And those who were in front wipe off against you even the dust that sticks to our feet from
began rebuking him, telling him to keep quiet, but all the your city. Nevertheless, know this, that the Kingdom of God
more he kept shouting: Son of David, have mercy on me! has come near. 12 I tell you that it will be more endurable for
40
Then Jesus stopped and commanded that the man be Sodom in that day than for that city.
brought to him. After he came near, Jesus asked him: (Acts 5:42) And every day in the temple and from house to
41
What do you want me to do for you? He said: Lord, let house they continued without letup teaching and declaring the
me recover my sight. 42 So Jesus said to him: Recover your good news about the Christ, Jesus.
sight; your faith has made you well. 43 And instantly he (Acts 20:20) while I did not hold back from telling you any
recovered his sight, and he began to follow him, glorifying of the things that were profitable nor from teaching you
God. Also, at seeing it, all the people gave praise to God. publicly and from house to house.

66
Page 46 Unit 5 (b) May Jehovah reward the way you act, and
may there come to be a perfect wage for you
*** km 2/09 p. 2 Do All Things for the Sake of the Good from Jehovah.RUTH 2:12.
News ***
Do All Things for the Sake of the Good News FEAR of God impelled two women to defy a Pharaoh.
Faith moved a prostitute to risk her life so as to protect two
1
The apostle Paul felt a personal obligation to declare the Israelite spies. Sensibleness and humility in a crisis helped a
good news to others. (1 Cor. 9:16, 19, 23) Similarly, our woman to save many lives and to prevent the anointed of
concern for the eternal welfare of people motivates us to go Jehovah from incurring bloodguilt. Faith in Jehovah God
out of our way to share the good news with them. along with a spirit of hospitality moved a widow and mother
to give the last of her food to a prophet of God. These are just
2
Preach Where and When People Can Be Found: A some of the many Scriptural examples of women who made
good fisherman casts his line or net, not where and when it is Jehovahs heart rejoice.
convenient for him, but where and when the fish are most 2
likely to be found. We too, as fishers of men, may need to Jehovahs attitude toward such women and the
make some personal adjustments in order to find people in blessings he bestowed upon them demonstrate that what
our territory and thereby enjoy more fully the privilege of pleases him above all else are spiritual qualities, which
gathering up fish of every kind. (Matt. 4:19; 13:47) Can we transcend gender. In todays world, obsessed as it is with the
use early evening hours to contact people at their homes or physical, giving priority to ones spirituality is a challenge.
the early morning hours to do street witnessing? Pauls goal But that challenge can be met, as is demonstrated by millions
was to bear thorough witness to the good news, and he took of God-fearing women who form a large part of Gods people
advantage of appropriate opportunities to do so.Acts 17:17; today. Such Christian women imitate the faith, discretion,
20:20, 24. hospitality, and other fine qualities demonstrated by God-
fearing women mentioned in the Bible. Of course, Christian
3
Adapt Your Presentation to Meet the Need: men too want to imitate the qualities shown by such
Fishermen frequently adjust their methods in order to catch a exemplary women of ancient times. To see how we may do
particular type of fish. How can we present the Kingdom so to a fuller degree, let us consider in more detail the Bible
good news in an appealing manner to people in our territory? accounts about the women mentioned at the outset.Romans
We must tactfully introduce a subject that is of concern to 15:4; James 4:8.
people in general and then listen carefully to their expressions
regarding the matter. (Jas. 1:19) We might ask a viewpoint Women Who Defied a Pharaoh
question to draw them out. (Prov. 20:5) In this way we will be 3
At the Nuremberg trials, held in Germany after World
able to adapt our presentation of the good news in a way that War II, many who were convicted of mass murder tried to
touches their lives personally. Paul became all things to excuse the crimes they committed by arguing that they were
people of all sorts. (1 Cor. 9:22) Adaptability is a key to simply obeying orders. Now compare these individuals with
reaching the hearts of people. two Israelite midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, who lived in
4
What a joy it is to share with people the good news of ancient Egypt during the reign of an unnamed but tyrannical
something better! (Isa. 52:7) May we do all things for the Pharaoh. Fearing a burgeoning Hebrew population, Pharaoh
sake of the good news in order to reach as many as possible. ordered the two midwives to make sure that every newborn
1 Cor. 9:23. Hebrew male was killed. How did the women respond to that
heinous command? They did not do as the king of Egypt had
spoken to them, but they would preserve the male children
alive. Why did these women not succumb to fear of man?
Because they feared the true God.Exodus 1:15, 17;
Page 47 Unit 6 (a)
Genesis 9:6.
Women Who Make Jehoavhs Heart Rejoice 4
Yes, the midwives took refuge in Jehovah, and he, in
turn, proved to be a shield to them, protecting them from
OPENING DISUSSION Pharaohs wrath. (2 Samuel 22:31; Exodus 1:18-20) But
Jehovahs blessing did not stop there. He rewarded Shiphrah
(Romans 16:12) Greet Tryphaena and Tryphosa, women and Puah with families of their own. He even honored these
who are working hard in the Lord. Greet Persis, our beloved women by having their names and deeds recorded in his
one, for she has worked hard in the Lord. inspired Word for future generations to read, whereas the
name of the Pharaoh has been lost in the sands of time.
*** w03 11/1 pp. 8-13 Women Who Made Jehovahs Exodus 1:21; 1 Samuel 2:30b; Proverbs 10:7.
Heart Rejoice ***
5
Women Who Made Jehovahs Heart Rejoice Are there women like Shiphrah and Puah today? Yes,
indeed! Each year, thousands of such women fearlessly
preach the Bibles life-saving message in lands where the
order of the king forbids it, thus risking their freedom or
even their life. (Hebrews 11:23; Acts 5:28, 29) Impelled by
67
love of God and neighbor, such brave women allow no one to Blessed for Her Sensibleness
stop them from sharing the good news of Gods Kingdom 10
with others. Consequently, many Christian women contend Many faithful women of old displayed in an
with opposition and persecution. (Mark 12:30, 31; 13:9-13) outstanding way the quality of sensibleness, making them a
As with Shiphrah and Puah, Jehovah is fully aware of the precious asset to Jehovahs people. One such woman was
deeds of such excellent, courageous women, and he will Abigail, wife of the wealthy Israelite landowner Nabal.
demonstrate his love for them by preserving their names in Abigails sensibleness contributed to the saving of lives and
his book of life, provided they endure faithfully to the end. prevented David, Israels future king, from becoming
Philippians 4:3; Matthew 24:13. bloodguilty. We can read about Abigail in the account
recorded at 1 Samuel chapter 25.
A Former Prostitute Brings Joy to Jehovahs Heart 11
As the story begins, David and his followers are
6
In the year 1473 B.C.E., a prostitute named Rahab lived encamped near Nabals flocks, which they protect free of
in the Canaanite city of Jericho. Evidently, Rahab was a well- charge day and night out of kindness to their Israelite brother
informed woman. When two Israelite spies sought refuge in Nabal. When Davids provisions are running low, he sends
her home, she was able to relate to them specific details about ten young men to Nabal to request food. Nabal now has an
Israels miraculous Exodus from Egypt, even though that had opportunity to show his appreciation to David and to honor
occurred 40 years earlier! She was also familiar with Israels him as Jehovahs anointed. But Nabal does the opposite. In a
more recent victories over the Amorite Kings Sihon and Og. fit of rage, he insults David and turns the young men away
Note how that knowledge affected her. To the spies, she said: empty-handed. When David hears about this, he assembles
I do know that Jehovah will certainly give you the land, . . . 400 armed men and sets out to exact revenge. Abigail learns
for Jehovah your God is God in the heavens above and on the about her husbands harsh response and acts quickly and
earth beneath. (Joshua 2:1, 9-11) Yes, what Rahab learned prudently to appease David by sending a generous
about Jehovah and his deeds in behalf of Israel touched a consignment of provisions. Then she herself goes to David.
responsive chord in her heart and caused her to have faith in Verses 2-20.
him.Romans 10:10. 12
When Abigail meets David, her humble appeal for
7
Rahabs faith moved her to action. She received the mercy reveals her deep respect for Jehovahs anointed.
Israelite spies in a peaceable way, and she obeyed their life- Jehovah will without fail make for my lord a lasting house,
saving instructions when Israel attacked Jericho. (Hebrews because the wars of Jehovah are what my lord is fighting,
11:31; Joshua 2:18-21) There is no doubt that Rahabs works she says, adding that Jehovah will commission David as
of faith brought joy to Jehovahs heart, for he inspired the leader over Israel. (Verses 28-30) At the same time, Abigail
Christian disciple James to place her name alongside that of shows considerable courage by telling David that his pursuit
Abraham, Gods friend, as an example for Christians to of revenge, if unchecked, will lead to bloodguilt.
imitate. James wrote: In the same manner was not also (Verses 26, 31) David is brought to his senses by Abigails
Rahab the harlot declared righteous by works, after she had humility, deep respect, and clear thinking. He responds:
received the messengers hospitably and sent them out by Blessed be Jehovah the God of Israel, who has sent you this
another way?James 2:25. day to meet me! And blessed be your sensibleness, and
8
blessed be you who have restrained me this day from entering
Jehovah rewarded Rahab in a number of ways. For one into bloodguilt.Verses 32, 33.
thing, he miraculously spared her life and the lives of all who
13
sought refuge in her homenamely, the household of her Upon returning home, Abigail bravely seeks to inform
father and all who belonged to her. Then he allowed these her husband of her gift to David. When she finds him,
ones to dwell in the midst of Israel, where they were to be however, he is as drunk as could be. So she waits until he is
treated as natives. (Joshua 2:13; 6:22-25; Leviticus 19:33, 34) sober and then tells him. How does Nabal react? He is so
But that is not all. Jehovah also bestowed upon Rahab the stunned that he is overcome by what may be some form of
honor of becoming an ancestress of Jesus Christ. What an paralysis. Ten days later he dies at Gods hand. When David
overwhelming demonstration of loving-kindness toward a learns of Nabals death, he proposes marriage to Abigail,
woman who had once been an idol-worshiping Canaanite! whom he evidently admires and deeply respects. Abigail
Psalm 130:3, 4. accepts Davids offer.Verses 34-42.
9
Like Rahab, some Christian women, from the first Can You Be Like Abigail?
century right down to today, have abandoned an immoral way 14
of life in order to please God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11) No Do you see some qualities in Abigail that youmen as
doubt some of them grew up in an environment comparable well as womenwould like to cultivate to a greater degree?
to that of ancient Canaan, where immorality was rife and Perhaps you desire to act more prudently and sensibly when
even viewed as normal. Yet, they changed their ways, difficulties arise. Or maybe you want to speak in a calm and
impelled by faith based on an accurate knowledge of the reasonable manner when the emotions of others around you
Scriptures. (Romans 10:17) Hence, it could also be said of are running high. If so, why not pray to Jehovah about the
such women that God is not ashamed of them, to be called matter? He promises to give wisdom, discernment, and
upon as their God. (Hebrews 11:16) What an honor! thinking ability to all who keep on asking in faith.James
1:5, 6; Proverbs 2:1-6, 10, 11.

68
15
Such fine qualities are especially important for a showed for his name, in that you have ministered to the holy
woman with an unbelieving husband who pays little or no ones and continue ministering.Hebrews 6:10.
heed to Bible principles. Perhaps he drinks to excess. 20
Hopefully, such men will change their ways. Many have done In the first century, several God-fearing women had the
sooften in response to the mild manner, deep respect, and privilege of ministering to Jesus and his apostles. In the next
chaste conduct of their wives.1 Peter 3:1, 2, 4. article, we will discuss how these women brought joy to
Jehovahs heart, and we will consider the example of modern-
16
Whatever difficulties you may have to put up with at day women who serve Jehovah wholeheartedly, even in
home, remember that Jehovah is always there to support you. difficult circumstances.
(1 Peter 3:12) So strive to fortify yourself spiritually. Pray for
wisdom and a calm heart. Yes, draw closer to Jehovah
through regular Bible study, prayer, meditation, and (Psalm 68:11) Jehovah gives the command; The women
association with fellow Christians. Abigails love for God and proclaiming the good news are a large army.
her attitude toward his anointed servant were not affected by (Luke 1:46-49) And Mary said: My soul magnifies Jehovah,
her husbands unspiritual outlook. She acted on the basis of 47
and my spirit cannot keep from being overjoyed at God my
righteous principles. Even in a household where the husband Savior, 48 because he has looked upon the low position of his
is an exemplary servant of God, a Christian wife realizes that slave girl. For look! from now on all generations will declare
she needs to continue to work hard to build up and maintain me happy, 49 because the powerful One has done great deeds
her own spirituality. True, her husband has the Scriptural for me, and holy is his name,
obligation to care for her spiritually and materially, but in the (Acts 16:14, 15) And a woman named Lydia, a seller of
final analysis, she must work out her own salvation with fear purple from the city of Thyatira and a worshipper of God,
and trembling.Philippians 2:12; 1 Timothy 5:8. was listening, and Jehovah opened her heart wide to pay
She Received a Prophets Reward attention to the things Paul was saying. 15 Now when she and
her household got baptized, she urged us: If you have
17
The way in which Jehovah cared for a poor widow in considered me to be faithful to Jehovah, come and stay at my
the time of the prophet Elijah shows that he deeply house. And she just made us come.
appreciates those who support true worship by giving of (Romans 15:4) For all the things that were written
themselves and of their resources. Because of a prolonged beforehand were written for our instruction, so that through
drought in Elijahs day, starvation stared many in the face, our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures
including a widow and her young son living in Zarephath. we might have hope.
Just when they were down to their last meal, a visitor arrived
the prophet Elijah. He made a most unusual request. Page 48 Unit 6 (a)
Although aware of the womans plight, he asked her to bake
a small round cake for him, using the last of her oil and QUESTION OUTLINE
flour. But he added: For this is what Jehovah the God of
Israel has said, The large jar of flour itself will not get (Genesis 2:18) Then Jehovah God said: It is not good for
exhausted, and the small jar of oil itself will not fail until the the man to continue to be alone. I am going to make a helper
day of Jehovahs giving a downpour upon the surface of the for him, as a complement of him.
ground.1 Kings 17:8-14.
(Genesis 2:23) Then the man said: This is at last bone of my
18
How would you have responded to that extraordinary bones And flesh of my flesh. This one will be called Woman,
request? The widow of Zarephath, apparently recognizing Because from man she was taken.
that Elijah was Jehovahs prophet, did according to Elijahs
word. In what way did Jehovah respond to her act of *** w95 7/15 pp. 10-11 pars. 4-6 The Dignified Role of
hospitality? He miraculously provided food for the woman, Women Among Gods Early Servants ***
her son, and Elijah during the drought. (1 Kings 17:15, 16) 4
After Adam had been in the garden of Eden alone for
Yes, Jehovah gave the widow of Zarephath a prophets
some time, Jehovah observed: It is not good for the man to
reward, even though she was not an Israelite. (Matthew
continue by himself. I am going to make a helper for him, as
10:41) The Son of God also honored this widow when he
a complement of him. (Genesis 2:18) Even though Adam
held her up as an example before the faithless people of his
was a perfect man, something else was needed in order to
hometown, Nazareth.Luke 4:24-26.
carry out the Creators purpose. To fill the need, Jehovah
19
Today, many Christian women reflect the spirit of the created the woman and performed the first marriage.
widow of Zarephath. For example, every week, unselfish Genesis 2:21-24.
Christian sistersmany of whom are poor and have families 5
Do the words helper and complement indicate that
to care forextend hospitality to traveling overseers and
the womans God-assigned role was demeaning? On the
their wives. Others share meals with local full-time ministers,
contrary. Bible writers often apply to God the Hebrew noun
help the needy, or in some other way give of themselves and
(ezer) rendered helper. For instance, Jehovah proves to be
of their resources to support the Kingdom work. (Luke 21:4)
our helper and our shield. (Psalm 33:20; Exodus 18:4;
Does Jehovah note such sacrifices? Absolutely! God is not
Deuteronomy 33:7) At Hosea 13:9, Jehovah even refers to
unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you
69
himself as Israels helper. As for the Hebrew word (ne Based on what is recorded in the Gospel accounts, a
ghedh) rendered complement, one Bible scholar explains: number of scholars have acknowledged Jesus view of
The help looked for is not just assistance in his daily work or women as nothing short of revolutionary. How is that so?
in the procreation of children . . . but the mutual support And more important, do his teachings still have a liberating
companionship provides. influence on women today?
6
There is thus nothing demeaning in Jehovahs How Jesus Treated Women
describing the woman as a helper and a complement. The
woman had her own unique mental, emotional, and physical Jesus did not consider them to be mere sexual objects. In
makeup. She was a suitable counterpart, a satisfying the view of some Jewish religious leaders, contact with the
complement for the man. Each was different, yet each was opposite sex could lead only to lust. Since women were
needed to fill the earth in accord with the Creators feared as a source of temptation, they were not allowed to
purpose. It was evidently after the creation of both the man talk to men in public or to go out without wearing a veil. On
and the woman that God saw everything he had made and, the other hand, Jesus advised men to control their own fleshly
desires and treat women with dignity instead of cutting them
look! it was very good.Genesis 1:28, 31.
off from social relations.Matthew 5:28.
Jesus also said: Whoever divorces his wife and marries
(Galatians 3:26-28) You are all, in fact, sons of God through another commits adultery against her. (Mark 10:11, 12) He
your faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized thus rejected the prevailing rabbinic teaching that allowed
into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor men to divorce their wives on every sort of ground.
Greek, there is neither slave nor freeman, there is neither (Matthew 19:3, 9) The concept of committing adultery
male nor female, for you are all one in union with Christ against his wife was alien to most Jews. Their rabbis taught
Jesus. that a husband could never commit adultery against his wife
(Galatians 4:26) But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is only a woman could be unfaithful! As one Bible
our mother. commentary puts it, Jesus, by putting the husband under the
(Revelation 12:1) Then a great sign was seen in heaven: A same moral obligation as the wife, raised the status and
woman was arrayed with the sun, and the moon was beneath dignity of women.
her feet, and on her head was a crown of 12 stars, The effect of his teaching today: In the Christian
(Revelation 19:7) Let us rejoice and be overjoyed and give congregation of Jehovahs Witnesses, women associate freely
him glory, because the marriage of the Lamb has arrived and with men at meetings. However, they need not fear indecent
his wife has prepared herself. looks or undue familiarity, because Christian men are careful
to treat older women as mothers, younger women as sisters
*** it-2 p. 1196 Woman *** with all chasteness.1 Timothy 5:2.

Privileges in the Christian Congregation. For those Jesus took time to teach women. In contrast with the
called by God to the heavenly calling (Heb 3:1) to be joint prevalent rabbinic view that kept women in ignorance, Jesus
heirs with Jesus Christ, there is no distinction between men taught them and encouraged them to express themselves. By
and women in a spiritual sense. The apostle writes: You are refusing to deprive Mary of the joy of being taught, Jesus
all, in fact, sons of God through your faith in Christ . . . there showed that a womans place is not only in the kitchen. (Luke
is neither male nor female; for you are all one person in union 10:38-42) Marys sister, Martha, also benefited from his
with Christ Jesus. (Ga 3:26-28) These all must receive a teaching, as shown by her intelligent answers to Jesus after
change of nature at their resurrection, being made partakers Lazarus death.John 11:21-27.
together of divine nature, in which state none will be What women thought mattered to Jesus. At that time,
women, for there is no female sex among spirit creatures, sex most Jewish women believed that the key to happiness was to
being Gods means for reproduction of earthly creatures. have a worthy son, if possible one who was a prophet. When
2Pe 1:4. one of the women cried out: Happy is the womb that carried
you! Jesus seized the opportunity to tell her about something
*** w12 9/1 Respect and Dignity Under Gods Care *** better. (Luke 11:27, 28) By indicating that spirituality was
Respect and Dignity Under Gods Care more important, Jesus pointed her to something more than the
traditional role imposed upon women.John 8:32.
WHEN on earth, Jesus perfectly reflected his heavenly
Fathers personality and way of doing things. He said: I do The effect of his teaching today: Teachers in the Christian
nothing of my own initiative; but just as the Father taught me congregation welcome the comments by women at
I speak . . . I always do the things pleasing to him. (John congregation meetings. They respect mature women for being
8:28, 29; Colossians 1:15) Thus, by noting the way Jesus teachers of what is good, both in private and by example.
interacted with women and his attitude toward them, we have (Titus 2:3) They also rely on them to tell publicly the good
a window into understanding Gods view of women and his news of Gods Kingdom.Psalm 68:11; see the box Did the
expectations for them. Apostle Paul Forbid Women to Speak? on page 9.

70
Jesus cared for women. In Bible times, daughters were not me. Her dream came true when her husband eventually
valued as much as sons. The Talmud reflects this view, agreed to study the Bible and then got baptized as one of
saying: Happy is he whose children are males, and woe to Jehovahs Witnesses. He became an example of self-control
him whose children are females. Some parents regarded a and restraint, Yelena says. We learned to forgive each other
girl as a greater burdenthey would have to find her a mate freely. Her conclusion? Bible principles have truly helped
and give a dowry, and they would not be able to depend on me to feel needed and protected in my marriage.
her for support in their old age. Colossians 3:13, 18, 19.
Jesus showed that a little girls life is as important as a Yelenas experience is not unique. Millions of Christian
boyshe resurrected Jairus daughter, as he did the son of women are happy because they and their husbands together
the widow at Nain. (Mark 5:35, 41, 42; Luke 7:11-15) After endeavor to apply Bible principles in their marriage. They
healing a woman troubled by a spirit of weakness for find respect, comfort, and freedom in the association of
eighteen years, Jesus called her a daughter of Abraham, an fellow Christians.John 13:34, 35.
expression almost unknown in Jewish writings. (Luke 13:10-
16) By using this respectful and kind expression, he not only Christian men and women both recognize that as sinful
regarded her as a full-fledged member of society but also and imperfect humans, they are part of Gods creation that
recognized her great faith.Luke 19:9; Galatians 3:7. has been subjected to futility. However, by drawing close to
their loving God and Father, Jehovah, they have the hope of
The effect of his teaching today: An Asian saying goes: being set free from enslavement to corruption and enjoying
Raising a daughter is like watering the neighbors garden. the glorious freedom of the children of God. What a
Far from being influenced by that mentality, loving Christian marvelous prospect for both men and women under Gods
fathers care well for all their children, sons and daughters. care!Romans 8:20, 21.
Christian parents make sure that all their children receive
proper education and health care. (Matthew 28:1) After the Sabbath, when it was growing light
on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other
Jesus trusted women. In the Jewish courts, the testimony Mary came to view the grave.
of a woman was considered equal only to that of a slave.
Josephus, a first-century historian, advised: From women let (Matthew 28:8-10) So, quickly leaving the memorial tomb,
no evidence be accepted, because of the levity and temerity with fear and great joy, they ran to report to his disciples.
9
of their sex. And look! Jesus met them and said: Good day! They
approached and took hold of his feet and did obeisance to
In sharp contrast, Jesus chose to have women bear him. 10 Then Jesus said to them: Have no fear! Go, report to
witness to his resurrection. (Matthew 28:1, 8-10) Though my brothers so that they may go to Galilee, and there they
these faithful women had been eyewitnesses of the execution will see me.
and burial of their Lord, to the apostles, the womens words (Luke 10:38-42) Now as they went on their way, he entered
were hard to believe. (Matthew 27:55, 56, 61; Luke into a certain village. Here a woman named Martha received
24:10, 11) However, by appearing first to women, the him as a guest in her house. 39 She also had a sister called
resurrected Christ regarded them as worthy of bearing Mary, who sat down at the feet of the Lord and kept listening
witness as his other disciples were.Acts 1:8, 14. to what he was saying. 40 Martha, on the other hand, was
The effect of his teaching today: In congregations of distracted with attending to many duties. So she came to him
Jehovahs Witnesses, men who have responsibilities show and said: Lord, does it not matter to you that my sister has
consideration for women by taking into account their left me alone to attend to things? Tell her to come and help
observations. For their part, Christian husbands assign me. 41 In answer the Lord said to her: Martha, Martha, you
honor to their wives by listening carefully to them.1 Peter are anxious and disturbed about many things. 42 A few things,
3:7; Genesis 21:12. though, are needed, or just one. For her part, Mary chose the
good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.
Bible Principles Contribute to Womens Happiness (Luke 13:10-16) Now he was teaching in one of the
When men imitate Christ, women are given the respect synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And look! a woman was there
and freedom that God originally purposed for them. (Genesis who had had a spirit of weakness for 18 years; and she was
1:27, 28) Instead of supporting male chauvinism, Christian bent double and was unable to straighten up at all. 12 When he
husbands let themselves be guided by Bible principles, which saw her, Jesus addressed her and said: Woman, you are
contribute to their mates happiness.Ephesians 5:28, 29. released from your weakness. 13 And he laid his hands on
her, and instantly she straightened up and began to glorify
When Yelena began to study the Bible, she was silently God. 14 But in response the presiding officer of the
suffering harsh treatment from her husband. He had been synagogue, indignant because Jesus did the cure on the
brought up in a violent environment, where the kidnapping of Sabbath, said to the crowd: There are six days on which
brides and physical abuse were common practices. What I work ought to be done; so come and be cured on those days,
learned from the Bible gave me strength, says Yelena. I and not on the Sabbath day. 15 However, the Lord answered
understood that there was someone who loved me very much him: Hypocrites, does not each one of you on the Sabbath
and valued and cared about me. I also understood that if my untie his bull or his donkey from the stall and lead it away to
husband studied the Bible, it could change his attitude toward give it something to drink? 16 Should not this woman, who is
71
a daughter of Abraham and whom Satan held bound for 18 How would first-century readers of Peters words
years, be released from this bondage on the Sabbath day? construe the term weaker vessel? The Greek word for
(Psalm 68:11) Jehovah gives the command; The women vessel (skeuos) was used a number of times in the Greek
proclaiming the good news are a large army. Scriptures and refers to various containers, implements,
utensils, and instruments. In calling women the weaker
(Genesis 2:20-24) So the man named all the domestic
vessel, Peter was not degrading women, for the expression
animals and the flying creatures of the heavens and every
implied that the husband too was a fragile or weak vessel.
wild animal of the field, but for man there was no helper as a
Other Bible texts use similar imagery in referring to both
complement of him. 21 So Jehovah God caused the man to fall
women and men, such as earthen vessels (2 Corinthians
into a deep sleep, and while he was sleeping, he took one of
4:7) and vessels of mercy (Romans 9:23). True, Peter
his ribs and then closed up the flesh over its place. 22 And
portrays women as the weaker of the sexes. But Romans
Jehovah God built the rib that he had taken from the man into
5:6 uses weak to apply to all humansmale and female.
a woman, and he brought her to the man. 23 Then the man
Therefore, the early Christians would not have considered the
said: This is at last bone of my bones And flesh of my flesh.
term weaker vessel to be derogatory to women.
This one will be called Woman, Because from man she was
taken. 24 That is why a man will leave his father and his If anything, Peters words would have been viewed as
mother and he will stick to his wife, and they will become elevating the status of women. In Peters day respect for
one flesh. women hardly existed. As God had long before foreseen,
(Ephesians 5:28-31) In the same way husbands should love husbands often dominated and abused their wives physically,
their wives as their own bodies. A man who loves his wife sexually, and emotionally. (Genesis 3:16) Thus, Peters
loves himself, 29 for no man ever hated his own body, but he counsel to Christian husbands implied, in effect: Do not
feeds and cherishes it, just as the Christ does the exploit the power worldly society has given men.
congregation, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 For
Let us take a closer look at the term weaker. Peter in
this reason a man will leave his father and his mother and he
this verse was referring, not to emotional, but to physical
will stick to his wife, and the two will be one flesh.
traits. Men are weak vessels; in a comparative sense, women
(1 Peter 3:7) You husbands, in the same way, continue are weaker vessels. How so? Bone and muscle structure are
dwelling with them according to knowledge. Assign them such that men are usually endowed with more physical
honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one, since they are strength. However, there is no indication that Peter was
also heirs with you of the undeserved favor of life, in order making a comparison of moral, spiritual, or mental strength.
for your prayers not to be hindered. Really, as far as emotional reactions to events go, women
might best be described as different from men, not necessarily
*** g94 10/8 pp. 19-21 The Weaker VesselAn Insult weaker or stronger. The Bible describes the strong moral
to Women? *** character, the endurance, and the discernment of women who
The Bibles Viewpoint followed Gods waysuch as Sarah, Deborah, Ruth, and
The Weaker VesselAn Insult to Women? Esther, to name but a few. Humble men have no difficulty
recognizing that women can be more intelligent than they are.
WHY ARE WOMEN JUDGED BY
THEIR GENDER RATHER THAN BY Nonetheless, some believe that a reference to women as
THEIR EXPERIENCE, ABILITY, AND weaker implies that they are lesser persons. But consider
INTELLIGENCE?BETTY A. this example. A person has two useful containers. One is
sturdy, the other less so. Is the second vessel somehow less
WOMEN ARE CONDITIONED TO valued because it is not as sturdy? Actually, the less sturdy
THINK THAT THEY ARE LESSER one is usually treated with more care and honor than the
CREATURES.LYNN H. sturdier one. Therefore, is a woman of lesser value because
she has less physical strength than a man? Certainly not!
DOES the Bible expression weaker vessel degrade Peter uses the term weaker vessel, not to denigrate women,
women? The Bible verse in question is 1 Peter 3:7, which but to foster respect.
states: You husbands, continue dwelling in like manner with In Like Manner . . . According to Knowledge
them according to knowledge, assigning them honor as to a
weaker vessel, the feminine one, since you are also heirs with Peter exhorted husbands to continue dwelling in like
them of the undeserved favor of life, in order for your prayers manner with them [their wives] according to knowledge. In
not to be hindered. like manner to whom? In previous verses Peter was
discussing Christs loving care for his followers, and he
When Peter wrote these words to fellow Christians, instructed husbands to care for their wives in like manner.
women had very few rights, not only in the ancient pagan (1 Peter 2:21-25; 3:7) Christ always placed his disciples
world but also among the apostate Jewish community. Were welfare and interests ahead of his own personal desires and
Peter and the early Christians advocating the then prevalent preferences. He was interested in their spiritual and physical
view of women? welfare, and he took their limitations into consideration.
Lesser Vessels? Husbands are to imitate Christs loving example, to behave
toward their wives in like manner.
72
A smooth-running marriage does not happen by chance. approval of him in the presence of others by stating: This is
Both husband and wife must know how to contribute to the my son, my beloved. Similarly, a husband should show by
success of the marriage. Hence, Peters advice is for husbands his deeds, both in public and in private, that he assigns his
to continue dwelling with their wives according to wife honor.
knowledge. Husbands need to study how Jehovah and his
Son, Jesus Christ, dealt with women. They need to know how Heirs of Life
God wants them to treat their wives. Throughout history, men have often viewed women as
In addition, husbands need to know their wives well worthy of little honor or respectas a slave, or as a mere
their feelings, strengths, limitations, likes, and dislikes. They instrument for gratifying men. The Christian concept of
need to know how to respect their wives intelligence, assigning honor to women certainly elevates them to a higher
experience, and dignity. The Bible says: Husbands, continue level of respect. Barnes Notes on the New Testament
loving your wives, just as the Christ also loved the observes that Peters admonition contains a very important
congregation and delivered up himself for it. In this way truth in regard to the female sex. Under every other system of
husbands ought to be loving their wives as their own bodies. religion but the Christian system, woman has been regarded
He who loves his wife loves himself, for no man ever hated as in every way inferior to man. Christianity teaches that . . .
his own flesh; but he feeds and cherishes it.Ephesians she is entitled to all the hopes and promises which religion
5:25, 28, 29. imparts. . . . This single truth would raise the female sex
everywhere from degradation, and check at once half the
Assign Them Honor social evils of the race.
When Peter referred to women as the weaker vessel, he Since Christ has ownership of both men and women,
also stated that husbands should be assigning them honor. there is serious reason for husbands to cherish their wives as
In Greek, the noun time conveys the sense of honor, esteem, Christs property. Immediately after referring to women as
value, preciousness. In other words, the assigning of honor is the weaker vessel, Peters words continue: Since you are
not simply an act of favor but the recognition of what is due also heirs with them of the undeserved favor of life, in order
them. Paul instructed all Christians, both men and women, as for your prayers not to be hindered. (1 Peter 3:7b) Peter
follows: In brotherly love have tender affection for one indicated that a husbands mistreating his wife would injure
another. In showing honor to one another take the lead. his relationship with God, blocking his prayers.
Romans 12:10.
In no way is the term weaker vessel meant to insult
Jehovah God certainly does not consider women as mere women. While Jehovah set husbands as the head of the
showpieces. In Israel, Gods laws applied with equal force to household, he does not subscribe to men mistreating women.
both men and women who were guilty of adultery, incest, Instead, he directs that the man, with knowledge of the
bestiality, and other crimes. (Leviticus 18:6-17, 23, 29; 20:10- woman, should extend care and honor to her.
12) Women could experience the benefits of the Sabbaths, the
laws governing Nazirites, the festivals, and many other The Bible directs both married and single men to assign
provisions of the Law. (Exodus 20:10; Numbers 6:2; honor to women, not treating them as lesser persons. Men and
Deuteronomy 12:18; 16:11, 14) The mother, as well as the women who earnestly worship God and who dignify one
father, was to be honored and obeyed.Leviticus 19:3; 20:9; another will receive rich blessings from the hand of God.
Deuteronomy 5:16; 27:16; Proverbs 1:8. Compare 1 Corinthians 7:16.

Verses 10 to 31 of Proverbs chapter 31 honor a capable


(Proverbs 12:4) A capable wife is a crown to her husband,
wife because of her faithfulness, industriousness, and
But the wife who acts shamefully is like rottenness in his
wisdom in caring for her many responsibilities. She was duly
bones.
recognized for her share in handling family business, as well
as other financial matters. How different from the attitude of
Page 49 Unit 6 (a)
some men who think of women as mere ornaments! Later, in
the early Christian congregation, women were empowered
An Orderly Arrangement
with holy spirit as witnesses of Christ. (Acts 1:14, 15; 2:3, 4;
compare Joel 2:28, 29.) Thus, some women are destined to (1 Corinthians 11:3) But I want you to know that the head of
become heavenly judges of men, women, and even angels. every man is the Christ; in turn, the head of a woman is the
(1 Corinthians 6:2, 3) True, women were not to teach in man; in turn, the head of the Christ is God.
congregational assembly; nevertheless, there were situations
when Christian women could pray or prophesy. They were (1 Corinthians 14:40) But let all things take place decently
assigned to be teachers of younger women, children, and to and by arrangement.
those outside the congregation.Matthew 24:14; (John 5:30) I cannot do a single thing of my own initiative.
1 Corinthians 11:3-6; Titus 2:3-5; compare Psalm 68:11. Just as I hear, I judge, and my judgment is righteous because
I seek, not my own will, but the will of him who sent me.
Another good indicator of what Peter had in mind when
(John 8:38, 39) I speak the things I have seen while with my
he said to assign them honor is found at 2 Peter 1:17. There
Father, but you do the things you have heard from your
we read that Jehovah honored Jesus by expressing his
father. 39 In answer they said to him: Our father is
73
Abraham. Jesus said to them: If you were Abrahams that of publicly bearing witness about him. (Psalm 68:11)
children, you would be doing the works of Abraham. Among Jehovahs Witnesses today, men and women who are
(Philippians 2:5-8) Keep this mental attitude in you that was public ministers have helped millions to attain to repentance
also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although he was existing in Gods and gain salvation. (Acts 2:21; 2 Peter 3:9) That is no small
form, gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he accomplishment!
should be equal to God. 7 No, but he emptied himself and The arrangement for men and women promotes peace
took a slaves form and became human. 8 More than that, while showing honor to both genders. To illustrate: The eyes
when he came as a man, he humbled himself and became and ears perform complementary tasks to help a pedestrian
obedient to the point of death, yes, death on a torture stake. cross a busy street. Similarly, when men and women
(Galatians 3:26-28) You are all, in fact, sons of God through accomplish Gods will according to the roles they have each
your faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized been assigned, God blesses the congregation with peace.
into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor 1 Corinthians 14:33; Philippians 4:9.
Greek, there is neither slave nor freeman, there is neither
male nor female, for you are all one in union with Christ
Jesus. (1 Peter 3:1, 2) In the same way, you wives, be in subjection
(Romans 12:10) In brotherly love have tender affection for to your husbands, so that if any are not obedient to the word,
one another. In showing honor to one another, take the lead. they may be won without a word through the conduct of their
wives, 2 because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste
(1 Corinthians 14:33-35) For God is a God not of disorder conduct together with deep respect.
but of peace. As in all the congregations of the holy ones,
34
let the women keep silent in the congregations, for it is not (Colossians 3:18) You wives, be in subjection to your
permitted for them to speak. Rather, let them be in subjection, husbands, as it is becoming in the Lord.
as the Law also says. 35 If they want to learn something, let (Colossians 3:23) Whatever you are doing, work at it whole-
them ask their husbands at home, for it is disgraceful for a souled as for Jehovah, and not for men,
woman to speak in the congregation.
(1 Timothy 2:12) I do not permit a woman to teach or to Page 50
exercise authority over a man, but she is to remain silent. Unit 6 (a)
*** w12 9/1 p. 9 Respect and Dignity Under Gods Care *** (1 Corinthians 14:35) If they want to learn something, let
[Box on page 9] them ask their husbands at home, for it is disgraceful for a
Did the Apostle Paul Forbid Women to Speak? woman to speak in the congregation.
Let the women keep silent in the congregations, wrote the apostle (1 Timothy 2:11-14) Let a woman learn in silence with full
Paul. (1 Corinthians 14:34) What did he mean? Was he belittling
submissiveness. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to
their intelligence? No. In fact, he often referred to the wholesome
teaching of women. (2 Timothy 1:5; Titus 2:3-5) In his letter to the
exercise authority over a man, but she is to remain silent.
13
Corinthians, Paul advised not only women but also individuals who For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 Also, Adam was
had the gift of tongues and prophecy to keep silent when another not deceived, but the woman was thoroughly deceived and
believer was speaking. (1 Corinthians 14:26-30, 33) Likely some became a transgressor.
Christian women were so enthusiastic about their newfound faith (1 Corinthians 11:4, 5) Every man who prays or prophesies
that they interrupted the speaker to ask questions, as was the custom with something on his head shames his head; 5 but every
in that part of the world. In order to avoid such disorder, Paul
woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered
encouraged them to question their own husbands at home.
1 Corinthians 14:35. shames her head, for it is one and the same as if she were a
woman with a shaved head.
*** g 7/10 p. 29 Should Women Be Ministers? *** (1 Corinthians 11:2-16) I commend you because in all things
you remember me and you are holding fast the traditions just
Teaching in the Congregation as I handed them on to you. 3 But I want you to know that the
Nowhere in the Bible, however, are women told to stand head of every man is the Christ; in turn, the head of a woman
before the congregation to teach. Rather, the apostle Paul is the man; in turn, the head of the Christ is God. 4 Every man
instructed them to keep quiet in the meetings. Why? One who prays or prophesies with something on his head shames
reason, he wrote, is so that things would be done in a proper his head; 5 but every woman who prays or prophesies with
and orderly way. (1 Corinthians 14:34, 40, Todays English her head uncovered shames her head, for it is one and the
Version) For the congregation to run smoothly, God has same as if she were a woman with a shaved head. 6 For if a
assigned the role of teaching to one group. Note, though, that woman does not cover herself, she should have her hair cut
a person is not granted the privilege of oversight in the off; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut
congregation simply because he is a male; it is granted only off or shaved, she should be covered. 7 For a man should not
to those men who truly qualify.1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5- have his head covered, as he is Gods image and glory, but
9. the woman is mans glory. 8 For man did not come from
woman, but woman came from man. 9 And what is more, man
Is the role that God has assigned to women demeaning? was not created for the sake of the woman, but woman for the
No. Remember, Jehovah God ordains them to a high calling sake of the man. 10 That is why the woman ought to have a
74
sign of authority on her head, because of the angels. may be other occasions when no baptized males are present at
11
Besides, in connection with the Lord, neither is woman a congregation meeting. If a sister has to handle duties
separate from man nor is man separate from woman. 12 For usually performed by a brother at a congregationally arranged
just as the woman is from the man, so also the man is through meeting or meeting for field service, she should wear a head
the woman; but all things are from God. 13 Judge for covering.
yourselves: Is it fitting for a woman to pray to God with her
head uncovered? 14 Does not nature itself teach you that long Must Christian women wear a head covering when
hair is a dishonor to a man, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it giving oral or sign-language translation of Bible discourses or
is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her instead of a when publicly reading the paragraphs from a Bible study aid
covering. 16 However, if anyone wants to argue in favor of that is being used at a congregation meeting? No. Sisters
some other custom, we have no other, nor do the handling these duties are not presiding or teaching. Similarly,
congregations of God. no head covering is required for sisters taking part in
demonstrations, relating experiences, or handling student
talks in the Theocratic Ministry School.
Note: Entire articles for pages 50 and 51
While teaching within the congregation is to be done by
*** w02 7/15 pp. 26-27 Questions From Readers *** baptized men, both men and women have the responsibility
Questions From Readers of preaching and teaching outside the congregation. (Matthew
24:14; 28:19, 20) So when a Christian woman is speaking to
In what situations is it appropriate for a Christian woman outsiders about Gods Word in the presence of a male Witness
to wear a head covering for spiritual reasons? of Jehovah, she would not need to wear a head covering.

Every woman that prays or prophesies with her head However, the situation is different when a regular,
uncovered shames her head, wrote the apostle Paul. Why? scheduled Bible study is being conducted in a home and a
Because of the divine principle of headship: The head of a dedicated, baptized male is present. This is a prearranged
woman is the man. Praying or preaching in the Christian session of teaching where the one conducting the study
congregation is normally the responsibility of a man. Hence, actually presides. Under these circumstances, a study
when a Christian woman cares for matters pertaining to becomes an extension of the congregation. If a baptized
worship that ordinarily would be performed by her husband female Witness conducts such a study with a baptized male
or by a baptized man, she should wear a head covering. Witness present, she would rightly wear a head covering.
1 Corinthians 11:3-10. However, the dedicated brother should offer prayer. A sister
would not pray in the presence of a dedicated brother unless
Situations in which a Christian woman ought to wear a there were some exceptional reason, such as the brothers
head covering may arise in her marriage relationship. For having lost the physical power of speech.
example, when the family comes together for a Bible study or
for a meal, the husband normally takes the lead in teaching A Christian sister may on occasion be accompanied on a
them and in representing them in prayer to God. If he is an Bible study by an unbaptized male Kingdom publisher. If she
unbeliever, however, this responsibility may fall on his wife. wishes, she may ask him to conduct the study. But since he
Therefore, when praying aloud on behalf of herself and others could not properly represent the baptized sister in prayer to
or when conducting a Bible study with her children in the Jehovah, it would be proper for her to pray at the study. When
presence of her husband, a Christian sister rightly wears a conducting the study and when praying under these
head covering. If her husband is not present, the wife need circumstances, the sister should cover her head. Even though
not wear a head covering, since she is divinely authorized to the male publisher is not yet baptized, outsiders identify him
teach the children.Proverbs 1:8; 6:20. with the congregation because of his preaching activity.

What, though, if a young son in the family is a dedicated, The woman ought to have a sign of authority upon her
baptized servant of Jehovah God? Since the son is a member head because of the angels, wrote the apostle Paul. Yes,
of the Christian congregation, he should receive instruction Christian sisters have the privilege of being good examples to
from its male members. (1 Timothy 2:12) If his father is a the millions of angels who loyally continue to subject
believer, the son should be taught by him. However, if the themselves to Jehovah. How appropriate that godly women
father is absent, then the mother should wear a head covering give due consideration to wearing a head covering when the
if she conducts a Bible study with the young baptized son and occasion calls for it!
the other children. Whether she calls on the baptized son to
In other cases, the disfellowshipped relative may be
pray at such a study or at mealtime is left to her discretion.
living outside the immediate family circle and home.
She may feel that he is not yet sufficiently capable and may
Although there might be a need for limited contact on some
choose to offer prayer herself. If she chooses to pray on such
rare occasion to care for a necessary family matter, any such
an occasion, she should wear a head covering.
contact should be kept to a minimum. Loyal Christian family
While sharing in certain congregation activities, members do not look for excuses to have dealings with a
Christian women may need to wear a head covering. At a disfellowshipped relative not living at home. Rather, loyalty
midweek meeting for field service, for example, there may to Jehovah and his organization moves them to uphold the
only be Christian sisters present, no baptized males. There Scriptural arrangement of disfellowshipping. Their loyal

75
course has the best interests of the wrongdoer at heart and On the other hand, many aspects of worship do not call
may help him to benefit from the discipline received. for a sister to wear a head covering. For example, she does
Hebrews 12:11. not need to do so when commenting at Christian meetings,
engaging in the door-to-door ministry with her husband or
*** lv pp. 209-212 Head CoveringsWhen and Why? *** another baptized male, or studying or praying with her
Head CoveringsWhen and Why? unbaptized children. Of course, other questions may arise,
and if a sister is unsure about a matter, she may do additional
When and why should a Christian woman wear a head research. If still unsure and if her conscience moves her to do
covering in connection with her worship? Let us consider the so, wearing a head covering would not be wrong, as shown in
apostle Pauls inspired discussion of this subject. He provides the accompanying picture.
the guidance we need in order to make good decisions, ones The motives. In verse 10, we find two reasons why a
that honor God. (1 Corinthians 11:3-16) Paul reveals three Christian woman would want to fulfill this requirement: The
factors to weigh: (1) the activities that call for a woman to woman ought to have a sign of authority upon her head
wear such a covering, (2) the settings in which she should do because of the angels. First, note the expression, a sign of
so, and (3) the motives for her to apply this standard. authority. Wearing a head covering is a way for a woman to
The activities. Paul mentions two: prayer and show that she acknowledges the authority that Jehovah has
prophesying. (Verses 4, 5) Prayer, of course, is worshipful placed upon baptized males in the congregation. Hence, she
address to Jehovah. Today, prophesying would apply to any expresses her love for and loyalty to Jehovah God. A second
Bible-based teaching that a Christian minister does. Is Paul reason is found in the words because of the angels. How
suggesting, though, that a woman should cover her head does a woman affect those mighty spirit creatures by wearing
whenever she prays or teaches Bible truth? No. The setting in a head covering?
which a woman prays or teaches makes all the difference. The angels are interested in seeing that divine authority is
The settings. Pauls words suggest two settings, or recognized throughout Jehovahs organization, in heaven and
spheres of activitythe family and the congregation. He on earth. They also benefit from the examples of imperfect
says: The head of a woman is the man . . . Every woman that humans in this regard. After all, they too have to be
prays or prophesies with her head uncovered shames her submissive to Jehovahs arrangementa test that more than a
head. (Verses 3, 5) In the family arrangement, the womans few angels failed in times past. (Jude 6) Now, the angels may
husband is the one whom Jehovah designates as her head. see instances when a Christian woman is more experienced,
Unless she gives due recognition to her husbands authority, more knowledgeable, and more intelligent than a baptized
she would shame her husband if she handled responsibilities male in the congregation; yet, she readily shows her
that Jehovah assigns to him. For example, if it became submission to his authority. In some cases, the woman is an
necessary for her to conduct a Bible study in her husbands anointed Christian who will later become one of Christs joint
presence, she would acknowledge his authority by wearing a heirs. Such a woman will eventually serve in a position even
head covering. She would do so whether he is baptized or higher than that enjoyed by angels and rule with Christ in
not, since he is the head of the family. If she were to pray or heaven. What a fine example for the angels to observe now!
to teach in the presence of her minor baptized son, she would Really, what a privilege all sisters have to demonstrate
likewise wear a head covering, not because he is the head of humble obedience through their loyal and submissive conduct
the family, but because of the authority granted to baptized in the sight of millions of faithful angels!
male members of the Christian congregation. [Footnotes]
Paul mentions the congregation setting, saying: If any A Christian wife would not normally pray aloud in the
man seems to dispute for some other custom, we have no presence of her believing husband except in unusual
other, neither do the congregations of God. (Verse 16) In the circumstances, such as if he has been rendered mute by
Christian congregation, headship is given to baptized males. an illness.
(1 Timothy 2:11-14; Hebrews 13:17) Only males are
appointed as elders and ministerial servants with the God- For more information, please see The Watchtower, July 15,
given responsibility to care for the flock of God. (Acts 20:28) 2002, pages 26-7, and February 15, 1977, pages 125-8.
Occasionally, though, circumstances may require that a
Christian woman be called on to handle a duty normally *** w09 11/15 pp. 12-13 Questions From Readers ***
performed by a qualified baptized male. For instance, she Questions From Readers
may need to conduct a meeting for field service because a
qualified baptized male is not available or present. Or she Is it appropriate for a sister to wear a head covering when
may conduct a prearranged home Bible study in the presence interpreting Bible discourses into sign language at
of a baptized male. Because such activities are really Christian meetings, assemblies, or conventions?
extensions of the Christian congregation, she would wear a
head covering to acknowledge that she is handling the duty Generally speaking, a Christian woman ought to wear a
normally assigned to a male. head covering when she cares for matters that are normally
the responsibility of her husband or a brother in the
congregation. This is in harmony with the principle stated by
76
the apostle Paul that every woman that prays or prophesies
with her head uncovered shames her head because the head Page 52
of a woman is the man. (1 Cor. 11:3-10) When a sister wears Unit 6 (a)
a modest and appropriate head covering in such situations, it
is a sign of submission to the theocratic arrangement in the *** w77 2/15 pp. 125-126 Should You Cover Your Head
Christian congregation.1 Tim. 2:11, 12. During Prayer? ***
What, though, of situations in which a sister interprets WHY COVERED OR UNCOVERED?
into sign language for a brother who is delivering a
As to understanding what the apostle Paul wrote about
discourse? True, the sister is merely acting as a linguistic
head covering and prayer, consider the verse before: I want
intermediary. That is to say, the teaching is not her own but
you to know that the head of every man is the Christ; in turn
that of the brother for whom she is interpreting. However,
the head of a woman is the man; in turn the head of the Christ
sign-language interpretation is very different from
is God. (1 Cor. 11:3) Yes, Paul was discussing the divine
interpretation between spoken languages. With spoken
principle of headship, and particularly its application in
languages, the audience can focus on the speaker and still
public worship.
listen to the interpreter. Also, unlike sign-language
interpretation, sisters who interpret spoken languages are As the apostle explained, the Creator assigned to the
usually not situated so prominently. At times, they may even man, whom He created first, headship and authority over his
have the option of being seated while interpreting or, if they wife, who was made from the mans rib. In respect to
are standing, of facing the speaker rather than the audience. headship, the man was Gods image and glory for he was
So it would not be necessary for a sister interpreting into a not assigned another head on earth. His wife and children,
spoken language to wear a head covering. though, do have an earthly head to whom they are in relative
subjection.1 Cor. 11:7-10; Eph. 5:22-24; 6:1.
In addition to this, because of developments in the
technology used when talks are interpreted into sign The principle of headship also applies in congregational
language, the interpreters role may become even more activities. Paul wrote that women should respect and strive to
magnified. An image of the signers interpretation is cooperate with the men who are to do the teaching and
commonly featured on a large screen, while the speaker praying. (1 Cor. 14:33-35; compare 1 Timothy 2:11, 12.)
himself may not even be visible to the audience. With these Therefore, in most instances, a woman back in the first
factors in mind, it would thus seem appropriate for the sister century C.E. would not preach or pray in the congregation.
who interprets into sign language to acknowledge her
secondary role as an interpreter by wearing a head covering. Why, then, did Paul discuss head covering? When was
such appropriate and when inappropriate? And how does that
How does this revised direction affect the interpretation apply today?
into sign language of parts on the Theocratic Ministry School,
demonstrations, and comments during the Congregation Paul wrote that when praying a woman ought to wear a
Bible Study, the Service Meeting, and the Watchtower Study? head coveringbe it a hat, scarf or head veilas a sign of
Should a sister who is a sign-language interpreter on such authority. (1 Cor. 11:10) It was to be an evidence that she
occasions also wear a head covering? It would appear that the recognized the principle of headship. But when would she
sisters use of a head covering in some circumstances is not need to cover her head? Consider these three situations:
necessary, since all in attendance should be able to appreciate In Pauls day Jehovahs holy spirit gave miraculous gifts
that she is not actually conducting the meeting. This would be to some Christians, such as the ability to prophesy or to speak
the case, for example, when she interprets comments from the in tongues. For example, at a meeting in the first century the
audience, talks given by sisters, or demonstrations. However, spirit might have impelled a Christian woman to prophesy.
when interpreting talks for brothers during these meetings, (1 Cor. 12:4-11; Acts 21:8, 9) Or, it might have been that only
when interpreting for the Watchtower Study conductor or the women were in attendance at a congregation meeting. With
conductor of the Congregation Bible Study, or when taking no baptized male to take the lead in prayer or in teaching, a
the lead in signing songs, she should wear a head covering. Christian woman might have to do so. Then again, a Christian
During the course of a meeting, a sister may have to interpret wife might have an unbelieving husband and on occasion be
for brothers, sisters, children, and elders. In view of this, it expected to pray or teach the Bible in his presence. In any of
may be more practical to wear a head covering during the these situations a woman would have worn a head covering,
entire meeting. a sign of authority, thus manifesting her recognition of the
[Footnote] headship principle.

For a detailed discussion of the topic of head coverings for YOUR HEADWHO?
Christian women, see pages 209 to 212 of Keep We can better appreciate the need for Christian men as
Yourselves in Gods Love. well as women to comply with Gods directions about head
(1 Timothy 1:5) Really, the objective of this instruction is covering by noting what could be the effect if they did not.
love out of a clean heart and out of a good conscience Recall that the apostle wrote that a man who prays
and out of faith without hypocrisy. having something on his head is doing something. What?
77
The original Greek text says that he is shaming the head of (Acts 18:26) He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, and
him, or, shames his head. Similarly, a woman who prays when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him into
or prophesies with her head uncovered shames the head of their company and explained the way of God more accurately
her, or, shames her head. Who or what is being referred to him.
to as head in each case?
This may be understood in the light of the verse before. *** g 7/10 Should Women Be Ministers? ***
There Paul said that the head of every man is the Christ and The Bibles Viewpoint
the head of a woman is the man. (1 Cor. 11:3) Hence, it Should Women Be Ministers?
may be reasoned that a man who prays with his head covered
in a sense dishonors Christ. By wearing a head covering I HAVE been amazed and angered by the fact that
when praying a man would be acting as if he were a wife nothing has changed for women, in terms of being ordained,
with a visible head on earth rather than being accountable to wrote a Catholic woman to the newspaper USA Today. Many
Christ as his head. Correspondingly, a woman who prayed people share her view. After all, in other religions women
with her head bared may be said to be shaming her head in serve as ministers, priests, bishops, and rabbis.
the Christian arrangement, her husband (if she is married),
Religions on both sides of the controversythose
her father or the headship of Christian men in the
forbidding women to be ministers and those allowing them to
congregation. preach from the pulpitclaim to adhere to the Scriptures.
However, the Bible does not support either view. How can
(Acts 5:29) In answer Peter and the other apostles said: We that be? To answer, we must first consider how the Bible uses
must obey God as ruler rather than men.
*** ia chap. 9 p. 80 par. 16 She Acted With Discretion *** the word minister.
16
Does this mean that Abigail was rebelling against her First-Century Ministers
husbands rightful headship? No; keep in mind that Nabal had What does the word minister mean to you? Many
acted wickedly against an anointed servant of Jehovah, an would immediately think of a religious leader, male or
action that could well result in death for many innocent female, who presides over a congregation for worship. But
members of Nabals household. If Abigail failed to act, might the Bible uses the word in a broader sense. Consider the
she become a sharer in her husbands guilt? In this case, she Christian woman Phoebe, whom the apostle Paul introduced
had to put submission to her God ahead of submission to her as our sister, who is a minister of the congregation that is in
husband. Cenchreae.Romans 16:1.
(Proverbs 31:1) The words of King Lemuel, the weighty
message his mother gave to instruct him: Do you imagine Phoebe standing before the congregation
(Titus 2:3-5) Likewise, let the older women be reverent in in Cenchreae, presiding over a religious service? Really, what
behavior, not slanderous, not enslaved to a lot of wine, ministry did Phoebe perform? In his letter to the Philippians,
teachers of what is good, 4 so that they may advise the Paul writes that certain women worked together with me . . .
younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, in spreading the good news.Italics ours; Philippians 4:2,
5
to be sound in mind, chaste, working at home, good, 3, Contemporary English Version.
subjecting themselves to their own husbands, so that the word The primary way in which first-century Christians spread
of God may not be spoken of abusively. the good news was publicly and from house to house. (Acts
(1 Timothy 2:9, 10) Likewise, the women should adorn 20:20) Those who engaged in that work were ministers. That
themselves in appropriate dress, with modesty and soundness included women such as Priscilla. She, along with her
of mind, not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or husband, expounded the way of God more correctly to a
very expensive clothing, 10 but in the way that is proper for God-fearing man who had not yet been baptized as a
women professing devotion to God, namely, through good Christian. (Acts 18:25, 26) Like Phoebe, Priscilla evidently
works. was an effective ministeras were many women.
(1 Peter 3:3, 4) Do not let your adornment be externalthe A Dignified Role
braiding of hair and the wearing of gold ornaments or fine
clothing 4 but let it be the secret person of the heart in the Was the public ministry a menial assignment, a
incorruptible adornment of the quiet and mild spirit, which is secondary task to be relegated to women while the men did
of great value in the eyes of God. the important work of presiding over the congregation? Not
(Luke 10:42) A few things, though, are needed, or just one. at all, and for two reasons. First, the Bible makes clear that
For her part, Mary chose the good portion, and it will not be all Christiansincluding men with weighty congregation
taken away from her. responsibilitieswere to share in the public ministry. (Luke
9:1, 2) Second, the public ministry was and still is the
(Acts 2:17, 18) And in the last days, God says, I will primary means by which Christians of both genders fulfill
pour out some of my spirit on every sort of flesh, and your Jesus command to make disciples of people of all the
sons and your daughters will prophesy and your young men nations, . . . teaching them.Matthew 28:19, 20.
will see visions and your old men will dream dreams, 18 and
even on my male slaves and on my female slaves I will pour There is another vital role that certain women have in the
out some of my spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. congregation. Paul wrote: Let the aged women be . . .
78
teachers of what is good; that they may recall the young put faith in him about whom they have not heard? How, in
women to their senses to love their husbands, to love their turn, will they hear without someone to preach?
children. (Titus 2:3, 4) Thus, mature women with experience (1 Corinthians 9:16) Now if I am declaring the good news, it
in Christian living have the privilege of helping younger and is no reason for me to boast, for necessity is laid upon me.
less experienced women to gain maturity. That too is a Really, woe to me if I do not declare the good news!
dignified, weighty role.
(1 Corinthians 14:40) But let all things take place decently
Teaching in the Congregation and by arrangement.
*** km 9/01 p. 3 Question Box ***
Nowhere in the Bible, however, are women told to stand
before the congregation to teach. Rather, the apostle Paul Qualified baptized brothers should be assigned in
instructed them to keep quiet in the meetings. Why? One advance to conduct each meeting for service. If none are
reason, he wrote, is so that things would be done in a proper available to take the lead on a particular day, the elders
and orderly way. (1 Corinthians 14:34, 40, Todays English should designate which baptized sisters can do so when the
Version) For the congregation to run smoothly, God has need arises. While remaining seated, the sister may initiate a
assigned the role of teaching to one group. Note, though, that group discussion of the days text or other points relative to
a person is not granted the privilege of oversight in the the field service, keeping her remarks brief. She would wear a
congregation simply because he is a male; it is granted only head covering.
to those men who truly qualify.1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-
9. Page 53 Unit 6 (b)
Is the role that God has assigned to women demeaning? Pioneer Service School Review Day 2
No. Remember, Jehovah God ordains them to a high calling
that of publicly bearing witness about him. (Psalm 68:11) Unit 4 (a) Uphold Jehovahs Sovereignty
Among Jehovahs Witnesses today, men and women who are (Psalm 143:10) Teach me to do your will, For you are my
public ministers have helped millions to attain to repentance God. Your spirit is good; May it lead me on level ground.
and gain salvation. (Acts 2:21; 2 Peter 3:9) That is no small
accomplishment! Unit 4 (b) Show Personal Interest in Others
The arrangement for men and women promotes peace (Philippians 2:4) as you look out not only for your own
while showing honor to both genders. To illustrate: The eyes interests, but also for the interests of others.
and ears perform complementary tasks to help a pedestrian
cross a busy street. Similarly, when men and women Unit 5 (a) From House to House-Our Principal Way Of
accomplish Gods will according to the roles they have each Preaching
been assigned, God blesses the congregation with peace. (Matthew 28:19) Go, therefore, and make disciples of people
1 Corinthians 14:33; Philippians 4:9. of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father
[Footnotes] and of the Son and of the holy spirit,

Note, too, that a mans authority in the congregation is


limited. He is in subjection to the Christ and must act in Page 54
accord with Bible principles. (1 Corinthians 11:3) Those Unit 6 (b)
with congregation responsibility must also be in
subjection to one another, displaying a humble, Unit 5 (b) Workshop 1 From House to House - Our
Principal way of Preaching
cooperative spirit.Ephesians 5:21.
By honoring the role that God has given to men in the (Acts 5:42) And every day in the temple and from house to
congregation, Christian women also serve as an example house they continued without letup teaching and declaring the
to the angels in heaven.1 Corinthians 11:10. good news about the Christ, Jesus.

HAVE YOU WONDERED? Unit 6 (a) Women Who Make Jehovahs Heart Rejoice
How did women in the early Christian congregation teach? (Psalm 68:11) Jehovah gives the command; The women
Acts 18:26. proclaiming the good news are a large army.

Who are appointed to oversee the congregation?


1 Timothy 3:1, 2.
Page 55 Blank
How does God view the ministry of Christian women Page 56 Unit 7 (a)
today?Psalm 68:11.
Benefit From Counsel and Direction
(Romans 10:13, 14) For everyone who calls on the name of
OPENING DISCUSSION
Jehovah will be saved. 14 However, how will they call on
him if they have not put faith in him? How, in turn, will they
79
(Ephesians 4:8) For it says: When he ascended on high he who compassionately shepherd the flock are thus
carried away captives; he gave gifts in men. endeavoring to live up to what God expects of them.
(Galatians 6:1) Brothers, even if a man takes a false step 3
Such elders are referred to in the Bible as gifts in
before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications men. (Ephesians 4:8) When you think of a gift, you think of
try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness. But keep an something given to fill a need or to bring happiness to the one
eye on yourself, for fear you too may be tempted. receiving it. An elder can be considered a gift when he uses
(John 10:16) And I have other sheep, which are not of this his abilities to provide needed assistance and to contribute to
fold; those too I must bring in, and they will listen to my the happiness of the flock. How can he do this? The answer,
voice, and they will become one flock, one shepherd. found in Pauls words at Ephesians 4:7-16, magnifies
(Acts 20:28) Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, Jehovahs loving concern for his sheep.
among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to
Gifts in MenFrom Where?
shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with
the blood of his own Son. 4
When Paul used the expression gifts in men, he was
(Revelation 1:16) And he had in his right hand seven stars, quoting King David, who had said of Jehovah: You have
and out of his mouth a sharp, long, two-edged sword was ascended on high; you have carried away captives; you have
protruding, and his countenance was like the sun when it taken gifts in the form of men. (Psalm 68:18) After the
shines at its brightest. Israelites had been in the Promised Land for some years,
(Revelation 1:20) As for the sacred secret of the seven stars Jehovah figuratively ascended Mount Zion and made
that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden Jerusalem the capital of the kingdom of Israel with David as
lampstands: The seven stars mean the angels of the seven its king. But who were the gifts in the form of men? They
congregations, and the seven lampstands mean the seven were men taken captive during the conquest of the land.
congregations. Some of these captives were later made available to the
Levites to help with the work at the tabernacle.Ezra 8:20.
(Ephesians 4:11-13) And he gave some as apostles, some as
5
prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul indicates that the
teachers, 12 with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, psalmists words have a greater fulfillment in the Christian
for ministerial work, to build up the body of the Christ, congregation. Paraphrasing Psalm 68:18, Paul writes: Now
13
until we all attain to the oneness of the faith and of the to each one of us undeserved kindness was given according to
accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to being a full-grown how the Christ measured out the free gift. Wherefore he says:
man, attaining the measure of stature that belongs to the When he ascended on high he carried away captives; he gave
fullness of the Christ. gifts in men. (Ephesians 4:7, 8) Paul here applies this psalm
to Jesus as Gods representative. Jesus conquered the world
*** w99 6/1 Gifts in Men to Care for Jehovahs Sheep by his faithful course. (John 16:33) He also triumphed over
*** death and over Satan by reason of Gods resurrecting him
Gifts in Men to Care for Jehovahs Sheep from the dead. (Acts 2:24; Hebrews 2:14) In 33 C.E., the
resurrected Jesus ascended far above all the heavens
higher than all other heavenly creatures. (Ephesians 4:9, 10;
When he ascended on high he carried away Philippians 2:9-11) As a conqueror, Jesus took captives
captives; he gave gifts in men. from the enemy. How so?
EPHESIANS 4:8.
6
When on earth, Jesus demonstrated his power over
THANK you for caring so much about us. Your smiles, Satan by delivering those held in bondage to the demons. It
your warmth, and your concern are so genuine. You are was as if Jesus invaded Satans house, bound him, and seized
always there to lend a hearing ear and share words from the his goods. (Matthew 12:22-29) Just think, once resurrected
Bible that lift our spirits. I pray that I never take you for and entrusted with all authority in heaven and on earth, what
granted. So wrote a Christian sister to the elders in her plundering Jesus could then do! (Matthew 28:18) Starting at
congregation. Clearly, the love shown by caring Christian Pentecost 33 C.E., the ascended Jesus, as Gods
shepherds had touched her heart.1 Peter 5:2, 3. representative, began despoiling Satans house by carrying
away captivesmen who had long been in slavery to sin and
2
Elders are a provision from Jehovah to look after his death and under Satans control. These captives willingly
sheep. (Luke 12:32; John 10:16) Jehovahs sheep are dear to became Christs slaves, doing the will of God whole-
himso dear, in fact, that he purchased them with the souled. (Ephesians 6:6) Jesus, in effect, wrenched them from
precious blood of Jesus. Little wonder, then, that Jehovah is Satans control and, on Jehovahs behalf, gave them to the
pleased when elders treat his flock with tenderness. (Acts congregation as gifts in men. Imagine Satans helpless rage
20:28, 29) Notice the prophetic description of these elders, or as they were snatched from under his very nose!
princes: Each one must prove to be like a hiding place
7
from the wind and a place of concealment from the rainstorm, Do we find such gifts in men in the congregation
like streams of water in a waterless country, like the shadow today? Indeed, we do! We find them serving as elders,
of a heavy crag in an exhausted land. (Isaiah 32:1, 2) Yes, working hard as evangelizers, shepherds, and teachers in the
they are to protect, refresh, and comfort his sheep. Elders more than 87,000 congregations of Gods people earth wide.

80
(Ephesians 4:11) Satan would like nothing better than for hearts. (1 John 3:20) There is comfort in knowing that faithful
them to mistreat the flock. But that is not why God through ones in Bible times had feelings like ours. (James 5:17)
Christ has given them to the congregation. Rather, Jehovah You can also review encouraging articles in The Watchtower
has provided these men for the well-being of the and Awake! with the downhearted. Your loving efforts to
congregation, and they are accountable to him for the sheep restore the confidence of such ones will not go unnoticed by
entrusted to them. (Hebrews 13:17) If you serve as an elder, the God who has given you as gifts in men.Hebrews
Jehovah has given you a wonderful opportunity to prove 6:10.
yourself a gift, or blessing, to your brothers. You can do so by
fulfilling four important responsibilities. Building Up the Flock
12
When There Is a Need for Readjustment Second, the gifts in men are given with a view to
the building up of the body of the Christ. (Ephesians 4:12)
8
First, the gifts in men are provided with a view to Paul here employs a figure of speech. Building up calls to
the readjustment of the holy ones, says Paul. (Ephesians mind construction, and the body of the Christ refers to
4:12) The Greek noun rendered readjustment refers to peoplethe members of the anointed Christian congregation.
putting something into proper alignment. As imperfect (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 5:23, 29, 30) Elders need to
humans, we all need to be readjusted from time to timeto help their brothers to grow strong spiritually. Their objective
have our thinking, attitudes, or conduct brought into proper is to build up and not to tear down the flock. (2 Corinthians
alignment with Gods thinking and will. Jehovah has 10:8) The key to building up the flock is love, for love
lovingly provided gifts in men to help us make the needed builds up.1 Corinthians 8:1.
adjustments. How do they do this? 13
One facet of love that helps elders to build up the flock
9
At times, an elder may be called upon to help a sheep is empathy. To be empathetic means to feel for othersto
who has erred, who perhaps has taken some false step before identify with their thoughts and feelings, considering their
he is aware of it. How can an elder help? Try to readjust limitations. (1 Peter 3:8) Why is it important for elders to
such a man in a spirit of mildness, says Galatians 6:1. have empathy? Above all because Jehovahthe one who
Hence, when offering counsel, an elder would not scold the gives the gifts in menis a God of empathy. When his
erring one, employing harsh words. Counsel should servants are suffering or in pain, he feels for them. (Exodus
encourage, not terrify, the one receiving it. (2 Corinthians 3:7; Isaiah 63:9) He is considerate of their limitations. (Psalm
10:9; compare Job 33:7.) The individual may already feel 103:14) How, then, can elders show empathy?
ashamed, so a loving shepherd avoids crushing that ones 14
spirit. When counsel, even firm reproof, is clearly motivated When someone discouraged comes to them, they listen,
by and given in love, it is likely to realign the thinking or acknowledging that ones feelings. They try to understand the
conduct of the erring one, thus restoring him.2 Timothy background, personality, and circumstances of their brothers.
4:2. Then when elders give upbuilding Scriptural help, the sheep
will find it easy to accept because it comes from shepherds
10
In providing gifts in men for our readjustment, who truly understand and care about them. (Proverbs 16:23)
Jehovah had in mind that elders be refreshing spiritually and Empathy also moves elders to consider the limitations of
worthy of imitation by his people. (1 Corinthians 16:17, 18; others and the feelings that may result therefrom. For
Philippians 3:17) Readjusting others involves not only example, some conscientious Christians may feel guilty
correcting those taking a wrong course but also helping because they are not able to do more in serving God, perhaps
faithful ones to stick to the right course. Today, with so many because of old age or poor health. On the other hand, some
problems that tend to dishearten, many need encouragement may need encouragement to improve their ministry. (Hebrews
to hold on. Some may need tender help to align their thinking 5:12; 6:1) Empathy will move elders to find delightful
with Gods. For example, some faithful Christians struggle words that build others up. (Ecclesiastes 12:10) When
with deep feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness. Such Jehovahs sheep are built up and motivated, their love for
depressed souls may feel that Jehovah could never love God will move them to do all they can in serving him!
them and that even their best efforts to serve God could never
be acceptable to him. (1 Thessalonians 5:14) But this way of Men Who Promote Unity
thinking is not in alignment with how God truly feels about 15
Third, the gifts in men are provided so that we all
his worshipers. attain to the oneness in the faith and in the accurate
11
Elders, what can you do to help such ones? Kindly knowledge of the Son of God. (Ephesians 4:13) The phrase
share with them Scriptural proof that Jehovah cares for each oneness in the faith signifies unity not only of beliefs but
of his servants and reassure them that these Bible texts apply also of believers. This, then, is another reason why God has
to them personally. (Luke 12:6, 7, 24) Help them to see that given us gifts in mento promote unity among his people.
Jehovah has drawn them to serve him, so surely he must see How do they do this?
value in them. (John 6:44) Assure them that they are not 16
To begin with, they must maintain unity among
alonemany faithful servants of Jehovah have had similar themselves. If the shepherds are divided, the sheep may suffer
feelings. The prophet Elijah was once so deeply depressed neglect. Precious time that could be spent in shepherding the
that he wanted to die. (1 Kings 19:1-4) Some anointed flock may be unnecessarily taken up by lengthy meetings and
Christians in the first century felt condemned by their own debates over incidental matters. (1 Timothy 2:8) Elders may
81
not automatically agree on every matter they discuss, for they that we appreciate them? These questions will be discussed in
are men having personalities that may vary widely. Unity the next article.
does not preclude their having different opinions or even
expressing them in a balanced way during an open-minded [Footnotes]
discussion. Elders preserve their unity by listening In the Greek Septuagint version, this same verb rendered
respectfully to one another without prejudgment. And as long readjust was used at Psalm 17[16]:5, where faithful
as no Bible principle is being violated, each should be willing David prayed that his steps might hold fast to Jehovahs
to yield to and support the final decision of the body of tracks
elders. A yielding spirit shows that they are guided by the
wisdom from above, which is peaceable, reasonable.
James 3:17, 18. (1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13) Now we request you, brothers, to
show respect for those who are working hard among you and
17
Elders are also alert to promote unity in the presiding over you in the Lord and admonishing you; 13 and
congregation. When divisive influencessuch as hurtful to give them extraordinary consideration in love because of
gossip, a tendency to impute wrong motives, or a contentious their work. Be peaceable with one another.
spiritthreaten peace, they readily offer helpful counsel.
(Philippians 2:2, 3) For instance, elders may be aware of
individuals who are overly critical or who are prone to QUESTION OUTLINE
meddle in the affairs of others, thus becoming busybodies. Development of the Christian congregation
(1 Timothy 5:13; 1 Peter 4:15) The elders will try to help (Matthew 10:1) So he summoned his 12 disciples and gave
such ones to recognize that this course is contrary to what we them authority over unclean spirits, in order to expel these
have been taught by God and that each one must carry his and to cure every sort of disease and every sort of infirmity.
own load. (Galatians 6:5, 7; 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12) Using
(John 21:1, 2) After this Jesus manifested himself again to
the Scriptures, they will explain that Jehovah leaves many
the disciples, at the Sea of Tiberias. He made the
things to our individual conscience, and none of us should
manifestation in this way. 2 There were together Simon Peter,
judge others over such matters. (Matthew 7:1, 2; James 4:10-
Thomas (who was called the Twin), Nathanael from Cana
12) To serve together in unity, there must be an atmosphere of
of Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his
trust and respect in the congregation. By offering Scriptural
disciples.
counsel when needed, the gifts in men help us to preserve
our peace and unity.Romans 14:19. (John 21:15-17) When they had finished breakfast, Jesus
said to Simon Peter: Simon son of John, do you love me
Protecting the Flock more than these? He replied to him: Yes, Lord, you know I
18 have affection for you. He said to him: Feed my lambs.
Fourth, Jehovah provides the gifts in men to protect 16
Again he said to him a second time: Simon son of John,
us from being influenced by every wind of teaching by
do you love me? He replied: Yes, Lord, you know I have
means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in
affection for you. He said to him: Shepherd my little
contriving error. (Ephesians 4:14) The original word for
sheep. 17 He said to him a third time: Simon son of John, do
trickery is said to mean cheating at dice or skill in
you have affection for me? Peter became grieved that he
manipulating the dice. Does that not remind us of how
asked him the third time: Do you have affection for me? So
clever apostates operate? Using slick arguments, they
he said to him: Lord, you are aware of all things; you know
manipulate the Scriptures in an attempt to lure true Christians
that I have affection for you. Jesus said to him: Feed my
away from their faith. Elders must be on the watch for such
little sheep.
oppressive wolves!Acts 20:29, 30.
(Acts 2:41, 42) So those who gladly accepted his word were
19
Jehovahs sheep need to be protected from other baptized, and on that day about 3,000 people were added.
dangers as well. The ancient shepherd David fearlessly 42
And they continued devoting themselves to the teaching of
protected his fathers flock from predators. (1 Samuel 17:34- the apostles, to associating together, to the taking of meals,
36) Today, too, occasions may arise when concerned and to prayers.
Christian shepherds have to show courage in order to protect
the flock from any who might mistreat or oppress Jehovahs *** w13 7/15 pp. 16-17 pars. 7-8 Feeding Many Through
sheep, particularly the more vulnerable ones. Elders will be the Hands of a Few ***
quick to remove from the congregation willful sinners who
7
deliberately use trickery, deceit, and scheming in order to What would be the role of the apostles? As Pentecost
perpetrate wickedness.1 Corinthians 5:9-13; compare 33 C.E. drew near, it was clear that the apostles would serve
Psalm 101:7. in an office of oversight. (Acts 1:20) What, though, would
20
be their primary concern? Following his resurrection, Jesus
How thankful we are for the gifts in men! In their provided a clue in a conversation he had with the apostle
loving care, we can feel secure, for they tenderly readjust us, Peter. (Read John 21:1, 2, 15-17.) In the presence of some of
lovingly build us up, readily preserve our unity, and the other apostles, Jesus told Peter: Feed my little sheep.
courageously protect us. But how should the gifts in men Jesus thereby indicated that his apostles would be among the
view their role in the congregation? And how can we show few through whom he would provide spiritual food to the

82
many. What a touching and telling indication of how Jesus dispensing spiritual food. That would eventually change. But
feels about his little sheep! the question is, When?
FEEDING THE MANY FROM PENTECOST ONWARD
8
*** w13 7/15 p. 18 Feeding Many Through the Hands of a
Starting at Pentecost 33 C.E., the resurrected Christ Few ***Endnote
used his apostles as the channel through which he fed the rest
of his anointed disciples. (Read Acts 2:41, 42.) That channel Paragraph 13: The apostle Pauls words found at Acts 20:29,
was clearly recognized by the Jews and proselytes who 30 show that the congregation would be attacked from
became spirit-anointed Christians that day. Unhesitatingly, two quarters. First, imitation Christians (weeds) would
they continued devoting themselves to the teaching of the enter in among true Christians. Second, from among
apostles. According to one scholar, the Greek verb rendered true Christians, some would become apostates, speaking
continued devoting themselves can mean having a twisted things.
steadfast and singleminded fidelity to a certain course of
action. The new believers had a deep hunger for spiritual
food, and they knew exactly where to get it. With unwavering (Matthew 24:45-47) Who really is the faithful and discreet
slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give
loyalty, they looked to the apostles to explain the words and them their food at the proper time? 46 Happy is that slave if
deeds of Jesus and to shed fresh light on the meaning of the his master on coming finds him doing so! 47 Truly I say to
scriptures pertaining to him.Acts 2:22-36. you, he will appoint him over all his belongings.

*** w13 7/15 pp. 21-23 Who Really Is the Faithful and
Discreet Slave? ***
Page 57
Unit 7 (a) WHEN IS THE ILLUSTRATION FULFILLED?
4
(Matthew 13:24-30) He presented another illustration to The context of the illustration of the faithful and
them, saying: The Kingdom of the heavens may be likened discreet slave shows that it began to be fulfilled, not at
to a man who sowed fine seed in his field. 25 While men were Pentecost 33 C.E., but in this time of the end. Let us see how
sleeping, his enemy came and oversowed weeds in among the the Scriptures lead us to this conclusion.
wheat and left. 26 When the stalk sprouted and produced fruit, 5
The illustration of the faithful slave is part of Jesus
then the weeds also appeared. 27 So the slaves of the master of
prophecy about the sign of [his] presence and of the
the house came and said to him, Master, did you not sow
conclusion of the system of things. (Matt. 24:3) The first
fine seed in your field? How, then, does it have weeds? 28 He
portion of the prophecy, recorded at Matthew 24:4-22, has
said to them, An enemy, a man, did this. The slaves said to
two fulfillmentsfirst, in the years from 33 C.E. through
him, Do you want us, then, to go out and collect them? 29 He
70 C.E., and second, in a more far-reaching way in our day.
said, No, for fear that while collecting the weeds, you uproot
Does this mean that Jesus words about the faithful slave
the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the
would also have two fulfillments? No.
harvest, and in the harvest season, I will tell the reapers: First
collect the weeds and bind them in bundles to burn them up; 6
Starting with the words recorded at Matthew 24:29,
then gather the wheat into my storehouse. Jesus focused primarily on events that would happen in our
day. (Read Matthew 24:30, 42, 44.) Speaking about what will
*** w13 7/15 p. 18 pars. 13-14 Feeding Many Through the happen during the great tribulation, he said that people will
Hands of a Few *** see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven. Then, in
13
words meant for those living during the last days, he urged
Jesus foretold that the Christian congregation would vigilance, saying: You do not know on what day your Lord
come under attack. Remember, in his prophetic illustration of is coming and, At an hour that you do not think to be it, the
the wheat and the weeds, Jesus warned that a newly planted Son of man is coming. In this contextwhen speaking
field of wheat (anointed Christians) would be oversown with about events that would take place in the last daysJesus
weeds (imitation Christians). The groups, he said, would be related the illustration of the faithful slave. Therefore, we
allowed to grow side by sideundisturbed until the harvest, may conclude that his words about that faithful slave began to
which would come at a conclusion of a system of things. be fulfilled only after the last days began in 1914. Such a
(Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43) It was not long before Jesus words conclusion makes sense. Why is that?
began to come true.
7
14
Think, for a moment, about the question: Who really is
The apostasy made some inroads in the first century, the faithful and discreet slave? In the first century, there was
but Jesus faithful apostles acted as a restraint, holding back hardly a reason to ask such a question. As we saw in the
the contamination and influence of false teachings. (2 Thess. preceding article, the apostles could perform miracles and
2:3, 6, 7) However, once the last of the apostles died, the even transmit miraculous gifts as proof of divine backing.
apostasy took root and flourished during a long growing (Acts 5:12) So why would anyone need to ask who really was
season that lasted for many centuries. Additionally, during appointed by Christ to take the lead? In 1914, however, the
that time, the weeds became many and the blades of wheat situation was much different. The harvest season began in
were few. There was no consistent, organized channel for that year. The time had finally arrived to separate the weeds
83
from the wheat. (Matt. 13:36-43) As the harvest season 3:2-4) Those faithful Bible Students were true Christian
began, a vital question thus arose: With many imitation wheat. In 1919, a time of spiritual revival, Jesus selected
Christians claiming to be Jesus true followers, how could the capable anointed brothers from among them to be the faithful
wheatanointed Christiansbe identified? The illustration and discreet slave and appointed them over his domestics.
of the faithful slave provided an answer. Christs anointed 13
followers would be the ones who were well-fed spiritually. Who, then, are the domestics? Put simply, they are
those who are fed. Early in the last days, the domestics were
WHO IS THE FAITHFUL AND DISCREET SLAVE? all anointed ones. Later, the domestics came to include the
8
great crowd of other sheep. The other sheep now make up the
The faithful slave must be made up of anointed vast majority of the one flock under Christs leadership.
Christians on earth. Such ones are called a royal priesthood (John 10:16) Both groups benefit from the same timely
and have been commissioned to declare abroad the spiritual food that is dispensed by the faithful slave. What
excellencies of the one that called [them] out of darkness about the Governing Body members who today make up the
into his wonderful light. (1 Pet. 2:9) It is only fitting that faithful and discreet slave? Those brothers also need to be fed
members of that royal priesthood have a direct share in spiritually. Hence, they humbly recognize that as individuals
teaching fellow believers the truth.Mal. 2:7; Rev. 12:17. they are domestics just like all the rest of Jesus genuine
9
Do all anointed ones on earth make up the faithful followers.
slave? No. The reality is that not all anointed ones have a role 14
Jesus placed a weighty responsibility on the faithful
in dispensing spiritual food to fellow believers worldwide. and discreet slave. In Bible times, a trusted slave, or steward,
Among the wheat are anointed brothers who may serve as was a house manager. (Luke 12:42) The faithful and discreet
ministerial servants or elders in their local congregation. They slave is thus charged with the responsibility to manage the
teach from house to house and in their congregation, and they household of faith. That responsibility includes overseeing
loyally support the direction from headquarters. But they do material assets, the preaching activity, assembly and
not have a part in dispensing spiritual food to the worldwide convention programs, and the production of Bible literature
brotherhood. Also among the anointed are humble sisters, for use in the field ministry and in personal and congregation
who would never try to assume the role of teachers in the study. The domestics depend on all the spiritual provisions
congregation.1 Cor. 11:3; 14:34. dispensed by the composite slave
10
Who, then, is the faithful and discreet slave? In
keeping with Jesus pattern of feeding many through the
hands of a few, that slave is made up of a small group of (Isaiah 54:13) And all your sons will be taught by Jehovah,
anointed brothers who are directly involved in preparing and And the peace of your sons will be abundant.
dispensing spiritual food during Christs presence.
Throughout the last days, the anointed brothers who make up Working Submissively with Gifts in Men
the faithful slave have served together at headquarters. In
recent decades, that slave has been closely identified with the (Hebrews 13:7) Remember those who are taking the lead
Governing Body of Jehovahs Witnesses. Note, however, that among you, who have spoken the word of God to you, and as
the word slave in Jesus illustration is singular, indicating you contemplate how their conduct turns out, imitate their
that this is a composite slave. The decisions of the Governing faith.
Body are thus made collectively. (Hebrews 13:17) Be obedient to those who are taking the
lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping
WHO ARE THE DOMESTICS?
watch over you as those who will render an account, so that
11
It is noteworthy that in Jesus illustration, the faithful they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would
and discreet slave receives two distinct appointments. The be damaging to you.
first is over the domestics; the second is over all the masters
belongings. Since the illustration is fulfilled only in this time *** w07 4/1 pp. 28-30 pars. 10-14 Humbly Submitting to
of the end, both appointments would have to come after Loving Shepherds ***
Jesus presence in kingly power began in 1914. 10
At Hebrews 13:7, 17, quoted above, the apostle Paul
12
When did Jesus appoint the faithful slave over his gives four reasons why we should be obedient and
domestics? To answer that, we need to go back to 1914the submissive to Christian overseers. The first is that they have
beginning of the harvest season. As we learned earlier, at that spoken the word of God to us. Recall that the gifts in men
time many groups claimed to be Christian. From which group that Jesus gives to the congregation are for the readjustment
would Jesus select and appoint the faithful slave? That of the holy ones. (Ephesians 4:11, 12) He readjusted the
question was answered after he and his Father came and thinking and conduct of first-century Christians by means of
inspected the temple, or spiritual arrangement for worship, faithful undershepherds, some of whom were inspired to
from 1914 to the early part of 1919. (Mal. 3:1) They were write letters to the congregations. He used such spirit-
pleased with a small band of loyal Bible Students who appointed overseers to guide and build up the early
showed that their heart was with Jehovah and his Word. Of Christians.1 Corinthians 16:15-18; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus
course, they needed some cleansing, but they humbly 1:5.
responded during a brief period of testing and refining. (Mal.
84
11
Today, Jesus directs us by means of the faithful and tossed about as by waves and carried here and there by every
discreet slave, represented by its Governing Body and the wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means
appointed elders. (Matthew 24:45) Out of respect for the of cunning in deceptive schemes.
chief shepherd, Jesus Christ, we heed Pauls counsel: Have (1 Corinthians 16:15-18) Now I urge you, brothers: You
regard for those who are working hard among you and know that the household of Stephanas is the firstfruits of
presiding over you in the Lord and admonishing you. Achaia and that they devoted themselves to ministering to
1 Peter 5:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 5:17. the holy ones. 16 May you also keep submitting yourselves to
12
A second reason for cooperating with Christian people like that and to all those cooperating and working
overseers is that they are keeping watch over [our] souls. If hard. 17 But I rejoice over the presence of Stephanas and
they detect anything in our attitude or behavior that might Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for
endanger our spirituality, they are quick to give us needed your not being here. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and
counsel with a view to our readjustment. (Galatians 6:1) The yours. Therefore, give recognition to men of that sort.
Greek word translated keeping watch literally means (2 Timothy 2:2) and the things you heard from me that were
abstaining from sleep. According to one Bible scholar, it supported by many witnesses, these things entrust to faithful
implies the unflagging vigilance of the shepherd. In men, who, in turn, will be adequately qualified to teach
addition to their maintaining spiritual vigilance, elders may others.
even lose sleep out of concern for our spiritual well-being. (Titus 1:5) I left you in Crete so that you would correct the
Should we not willingly cooperate with such loving things that were defective and make appointments of elders in
undershepherds, who do their best to imitate the tender care city after city, as I instructed you:
given by Jesus Christ, the great shepherd of the sheep? (1 Thessalonians 5:12) Now we request you, brothers, to
Hebrews 13:20. show respect for those who are working hard among you and
13
A third reason for our willingly cooperating with the presiding over you in the Lord and admonishing you;
overseers is that they keep watch over us as those who will (1 Timothy 5:17) Let the elders who preside in a fine way be
render an account. Overseers remember that they are considered worthy of double honor, especially those who
undershepherds, serving under the heavenly Shepherds, work hard in speaking and teaching.
Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. (Ezekiel 34:22-24) Jehovah is
the Owner of the sheep, whom he purchased with the blood
of his own Son, and He holds the appointed overseers
accountable for the way they treat His flock, which should be
with tenderness. (Acts 20:28, 29) Hence, all of us are
answerable to Jehovah for the way we respond to his Page 58 Unit 7 (a)
direction. (Romans 14:10-12) Our obedience to the appointed
elders also gives evidence of our submission to Christ, the Christian Sheperds Keep Watch Over You
Head of the congregation.Colossians 2:19. (Galatians 6:1) Brothers, even if a man takes a false step
14
before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications
Paul gave a fourth reason why we should humbly try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness. But keep an
submit to Christian overseers. He wrote: That they may do eye on yourself, for fear you too may be tempted.
this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be
(Hebrews 13:17a) Be obedient to those who are taking the
damaging to you. (Hebrews 13:17) With their weighty
lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping
responsibilities of teaching, shepherding, taking the lead in
watch over you as those who will render an account,
the preaching work, raising their families, and handling
problems in the congregation, Christian elders carry a heavy (1 Peter 5:2, 3) Shepherd the flock of God under your care,
load. (2 Corinthians 11:28, 29) If we fail to cooperate with serving as overseers, not under compulsion, but willingly
them, we only add to their load. This would result in their before God; not for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly; 3 not
sighing. Our showing an uncooperative spirit is displeasing lording it over those who are Gods inheritance, but becoming
to Jehovah and could prove to be damaging to us. Instead, examples to the flock.
when we show proper respect and cooperation, the elders can
carry out their duties with joy, and this contributes to unity
and joyful participation in the Kingdom-preaching work. *** w07 4/1 pp. 28-29 par. 12 Humbly Submitting to
Romans 15:5, 6. Loving Shepherds ***
12
A second reason for cooperating with Christian
(Ephesians 4:11-14) And he gave some as apostles, some as overseers is that they are keeping watch over [our] souls. If
prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and they detect anything in our attitude or behavior that might
teachers, 12 with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, endanger our spirituality, they are quick to give us needed
for ministerial work, to build up the body of the Christ, counsel with a view to our readjustment. (Galatians 6:1) The
13
until we all attain to the oneness of the faith and of the Greek word translated keeping watch literally means
accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to being a full-grown abstaining from sleep. According to one Bible scholar, it
man, attaining the measure of stature that belongs to the implies the unflagging vigilance of the shepherd. In
fullness of the Christ. 14 So we should no longer be children, addition to their maintaining spiritual vigilance, elders may
85
even lose sleep out of concern for our spiritual well-being. (2 Kings 5:11) At this Naaman became indignant and started
Should we not willingly cooperate with such loving to leave, saying: Here I said to myself, He will come out to
undershepherds, who do their best to imitate the tender care me and stand here and call on the name of Jehovah his God,
given by Jesus C moving his hand back and forth over the leprosy to cure it.
(Philippians 2:20-22) For I have no one else of a disposition
Shepherds Serve With Joy like his who will genuinely care for your concerns. 21 For all
(Ezekiel 34:22-24) And I will save my sheep, and they will the others are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus
no longer become something to prey upon; and I will judge Christ. 22 But you know the proof he gave of himself, that like
between a sheep and a sheep. 23 I will raise up one shepherd a child with a father he slaved with me to advance the good
over them, my servant David, and he will feed them. He news.
himself will feed them and become their shepherd. 24 And I, (2 Corinthians 1:24) Not that we are the masters over your
Jehovah, will become their God, and my servant David a faith, but we are fellow workers for your joy, for it is by your
chieftain among them. I myself, Jehovah, have spoken. faith that you are standing.
(Acts 20:28, 29) Pay attention to yourselves and to all the Ways to Support Traveling Overseers Visits
flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you (Romans 1:11, 12) For I am longing to see you, that I may
overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he impart some spiritual gift to you for you to be made firm;
purchased with the blood of his own Son. 29 I know that after 12
or, rather, that we may have an interchange of
my going away oppressive wolves will enter in among you encouragement by one anothers faith, both yours and mine.
and will not treat the flock with tenderness,
(Romans 14:10-12) But why do you judge your brother? Or
why do you also look down on your brother? For we will all Page 60
stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For it is written: Unit 7 (a)
As surely as I live, says Jehovah, to me every knee will
bend, and every tongue will make open acknowledgment to (Proverbs 27:17) As iron sharpens iron, So one man
God. 12 So, then, each of us will render an account for sharpens his friend.
himself to God.
(Colossians 2:19) and he is not holding fast to the head, to *** km 8/86 pp. 1-2 par. 4 The Circuit Overseers Visit
the one through whom the whole body is supplied and A Provision for Spiritual Progress ***
harmoniously joined together by means of its joints and 4
First, we should brace up our minds for activity.
ligaments and made to grow with the growth that is from (1 Pet. 1:13) To do this, we need to have the right point of
God. view of the visit and make specific plans to have an enlarged
Page 59 Unit 7 (a) share in the ministry. Can you auxiliary pioneer during the
month of the circuit overseers visit? Could you adjust your
(James 3:2) For we all stumble many times. If anyone does daily routine so as to work in the field service during the
not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able to bridle also week? Could you schedule return visits or a Bible study for a
his whole body. weekday afternoon? The circuit overseer would be pleased to
(Hebrews 13:17b) so that they may do this with joy and not accompany you and even to conduct your study if that is your
with sighing, for this would be damaging to you. desire.
(Proverbs 19:20) Listen to counsel and accept discipline, In
order to become wise in your future. (Romans 1:12) or, rather, that we may have an interchange of
(1 Samuel 15:20) However, Saul said to Samuel: But I have encouragement by one anothers faith, both yours and mine.
obeyed the voice of Jehovah! I went on the mission to which *** km 6/89 p. 3 Give Support to the Circuit Overseers
Jehovah sent me, and I brought back Agag the king of Am Visit ***
alek, and I devoted the Amalekites to destruction. Give Support to the Circuit Overseers Visit
(1 Samuel 15:24-28) Then Saul said to Samuel: I have 1
sinned, for I have overstepped the order of Jehovah and your From October 15, 1946, onward, congregations have
words, because I feared the people and listened to what they been organized into circuits that are served by full-time
said. 25 And now, please, pardon my sin, and return with me traveling overseers. For almost 43 years now, both
so that I may bow down to Jehovah. 26 But Samuel said to individuals and congregations have benefited from this
Saul: I will not return with you, for you have rejected the theocratic provision. (Isa. 1:26) Our continued support of this
word of Jehovah, and Jehovah has rejected you from arrangement will bring us many more rich blessings.Eph.
continuing as king over Israel. 27 As Samuel was turning to 4:7, 8, 11.
go, Saul grabbed hold of the hem of his sleeveless coat, but it PREPARING FOR THE VISIT
ripped away. 28 At this Samuel said to him: Jehovah has
2
ripped away the royal rule of Israel from you today, and he Once the visit of the circuit overseer has been
will give it to one of your fellow men who is better than you. announced, we can begin to prepare for it. We can make plans
to adjust our normal schedule so as to support fully the week
of special activity. Some publishers arrange to spend more
86
time in the field ministry by auxiliary pioneering. Others may me. 41 In answer the Lord said to her: Martha, Martha, you
take a day or two off from their secular work to share in the are anxious and disturbed about many things. 42 A few things,
ministry. Many publishers make special appointments to though, are needed, or just one. For her part, Mary chose the
work with the traveling overseer in some feature of the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.
ministry. Wholehearted support for the field ministry on this
occasion brings many rewards.
3
Reports received from the traveling overseers indicate Page 61 no citations
Page 62 Unit 7 (b)
that there can be better support for afternoon return visit and
Bible study activity. Could you schedule return visits or a
Resist the Spirit of the World
Bible study for an afternoon during this week? The circuit
overseer will gladly accompany you, and if you like, he
OPENING DISCUSSION
would also be pleased to conduct your study.
PERSONAL ASSISTANCE (1 Corinthians 2:12) Now we received, not the spirit of the
world, but the spirit that is from God, so that we might know
4
High on the circuit overseers list of priorities is the the things that have been kindly given us by God.
need to provide additional training for anyone who may be (Galatians 5:22, 23) On the other hand, the fruitage of the
reaching out for greater privileges of service. (1 Tim. 3:1) Do spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
you have questions about your specific assignments or 23
mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
responsibilities? Would you like to improve your ability and
personal organization? Are you interested in Bethel service, QUESTION OUTLINE
Gilead, or the Ministerial Training School? Would you like to (1 Corinthians 2:12) Now we received, not the spirit of the
serve where the need is greater, either within your circuit or world, but the spirit that is from God, so that we might know
elsewhere in the United States? Whatever your spiritual goals the things that have been kindly given us by God.
may be, the circuit overseer will gladly discuss them with
you.
5
Page 63
If your circuit overseer is married, his wife is likewise a Unit 7 (b)
devoted servant of Jehovah. Very likely she is a pioneer and
will be in a position to give full support to field service (Ephesians 2:2, 3) in which you at one time walked
arrangements. Because of her experience and regular according to the system of things of this world, according to
participation in the ministry in diverse territories, she the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit that is now at
becomes skilled in the preaching work. She makes herself work in the sons of disobedience. 3 Yes, among them we all at
available to work mainly with other sisters in the house-to- one time conducted ourselves in harmony with the desires of
house service and accompany them on return visits and home our flesh, carrying out the will of the flesh and of our
Bible studies. She deserves the same warm commendation thoughts, and we were naturally children of wrath just as the
that Paul gave concerning Phoebe.Rom. 16:1, 2. rest.
6
Not to be overlooked is the privilege we have of *** lv chap. 5 p. 54 par. 8 How to Keep Separate From the
showing hospitality to the traveling overseer and his wife, if World ***
he is married. Many are the brothers who treasure the 8
The worlds air, or spirit, is an invisible, impelling
memories as well as the encouragement they have received force that incites disobedience to God and fosters the desire
because of opening their homes or sharing a meal with these of the flesh and the desire of the eyes. (1 John 2:16;
traveling ministers and enjoying pleasant spiritual association 1 Timothy 6:9, 10) The authority of this spirit lies in its
with them.3 John 5-8. appeal to the sinful flesh, its subtlety, its relentlessness and,
7
Regular visits by spiritually mature traveling overseers like air, its pervasiveness. Moreover, it operates in a person
continue to help Jehovahs people. The degree to which we by gradually nurturing in him ungodly traits, such as
can benefit individually from this arrangement depends on selfishness, haughtiness, greedy ambition, and the spirit of
the extent to which we prepare for and support the circuit moral independence and rebellion. Simply put, the spirit of
overseers visit. May all of us be determined to give full the world progressively causes the traits of the Devil to grow
support to the next visit of our circuit overseer. in the heart of a man.John 8:44; Acts 13:10; 1 John 3:8, 10.

(John 8:44) You are from your father the Devil, and you wish
(Luke 10:38-42) Now as they went on their way, he entered to do the desires of your father. That one was a murderer
into a certain village. Here a woman named Martha received when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because
him as a guest in her house. 39 She also had a sister called truth is not in him. When he speaks the lie, he speaks
Mary, who sat down at the feet of the Lord and kept listening according to his own disposition, because he is a liar and the
to what he was saying. 40 Martha, on the other hand, was father of the lie.
distracted with attending to many duties. So she came to him
and said: Lord, does it not matter to you that my sister has (Acts 13:10) and said: O man full of every sort of fraud and
left me alone to attend to things? Tell her to come and help every sort of villainy, you son of the Devil, you enemy of

87
everything righteous, will you not quit distorting the right *** w13 1/15 pp. 14-15 pars. 11-15 Let Nothing Distance
ways of Jehovah? You From Jehovah ***
(1 John 3:8) The one who practices sin originates with the 11
The Bible is not anti-fun, nor does it depict recreation
Devil, because the Devil has been sinning from the and entertainment as a waste of time. Bodily training is
beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was made beneficial for a little, wrote Paul to Timothy. (1 Tim. 4:8)
manifest, to break up the works of the Devil. The Bible even says that there is a time to laugh and a
(1 John 3:10) The children of God and the children of the time to skip about, and it encourages a healthy amount of
Devil are evident by this fact: Whoever does not practice rest. (Eccl. 3:4; 4:6) If you are not careful, however,
righteousness does not originate with God, nor does the one recreation and entertainment could distance you from
who does not love his brother. Jehovah. How? Much of the danger centers on two aspects
what type you choose and how much time you spend on it.
*** lv chap. 5 p. 54 par. 8 How to Keep Separate From the 12
First, consider the type. Be assured that you can find
World ***
healthy forms of recreation and good entertainment.
8
The worlds air, or spirit, is an invisible, impelling Admittedly, though, much of what is available glorifies things
force that incites disobedience to God and fosters the desire that God hates, including violence, spiritism, and illicit sex.
of the flesh and the desire of the eyes. (1 John 2:16; Therefore, you need to scrutinize the type of recreation and
1 Timothy 6:9, 10) The authority of this spirit lies in its entertainment that you engage in. What effect does it have on
appeal to the sinful flesh, its subtlety, its relentlessness and, you? Does it encourage in you a spirit of violence, fierce
like air, its pervasiveness. Moreover, it operates in a person competition, or nationalism? (Prov. 3:31) Does it drain your
by gradually nurturing in him ungodly traits, such as financial resources? Could it stumble others? (Rom. 14:21)
selfishness, haughtiness, greedy ambition, and the spirit of What type of associates does your choice of recreation and
moral independence and rebellion. Simply put, the spirit of entertainment bring you into contact with? (Prov. 13:20)
the world progressively causes the traits of the Devil to grow Does it stimulate in you a desire to commit wrong acts?Jas.
in the heart of a man.John 8:44; Acts 13:10; 1 John 3:8, 10. 1:14, 15.
13
Consider, too, the amount of time you spend on
(Proverbs 4:23) Above all the things that you guard, recreation and entertainment. Ask yourself, Do I spend so
safeguard your heart, For out of it are the sources of life. much time in leisure pursuits that I have little time left for
spiritual activities? If you choose to spend excessive time on
Questions to Ponder recreation and entertainment, you will find that your
(Psalm 26:4) I do not associate with deceitful men, And I downtime is not as refreshing as it could be. In fact, those
avoid those who hide what they are. who keep relaxation in its place enjoy it even more. Why?
(Psalm 119:37) Turn my eyes away from looking at what is Because they know that they first took care of the more
worthless; Preserve me alive in your way. important things, so their period of relaxation comes guilt
(1 Corinthians 15:33) Do not be misled. Bad associations free.Read Philippians 1:10, 11.
spoil useful habits. 14
Although spending much time in leisure activities may
(Proverbs 22:1) A good name is to be chosen rather than seem appealing, taking that path could distance you from
great wealth; To be respected is better than silver and gold. Jehovah. A 20-year-old sister named Kim learned that from
(Ecclesiastes 10:1) As dead flies cause the perfumers oil to experience. I used to be at all the parties, she says. Every
stink and bubble, so a little foolishness outweighs wisdom weekend something big was happeningFriday, Saturday,
and glory. and Sunday. Now, though, I see that there are just so many
(Ephesians 5:15, 16) So keep strict watch that how you walk more important things to do. For example, as a pioneer, I
is not as unwise but as wise persons, 16 making the best use of wake up at 6:00 a.m. for field service, so I cant be
your time, because the days are wicked. socializing until one or two in the morning. I know that social
events are not all bad, but they can be a huge distraction. Like
(James 3:14-18) But if you have bitter jealousy and anything else, they have to be kept in their place.
contentiousness in your hearts, do not be bragging and lying
against the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down 15
Parents are responsible for providing materially,
from above; it is earthly, animalistic, demonic. 16 For spiritually, and emotionally for themselves and their children.
wherever there are jealousy and contentiousness, there will That includes making provision for refreshment. If you are a
also be disorder and every vile thing. 17 But the wisdom from parent, do not be a killjoy who treats all leisure activity as
above is first of all pure, then peaceable, reasonable, ready to bad. At the same time, be on guard against unsavory
obey, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, not influences. (1 Cor. 5:6) With adequate forethought, you can
hypocritical. 18 Moreover, the fruit of righteousness is sown in find recreation and entertainment that is truly refreshing for
peaceful conditions for those who are making peace. your family. In that way, you and your children will choose a
(Psalm 97:10) O you who love Jehovah, hate what is bad. He path that will bring you closer to Jehovah.
is guarding the lives of his loyal ones; He rescues them from
the hand of the wicked.

88
(Isaiah 52:11) Turn away, turn away, get out of there, touch twice and having been uprooted; 13 wild waves of the sea that
nothing unclean! Get out from the midst of her, keep cast up the foam of their own shame; stars with no set course,
yourselves clean, You who are carrying the utensils of for which the blackest darkness stands reserved forever.
Jehovah. (Revelation 2:1) To the angel of the congregation in Eph
esus write: These are the things that he says who holds the
Page 64 Unit 7 (b) seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven
golden lampstands:
(1 Timothy 6:8-10) So, having food and clothing, we will be
content with these things. 9 But those who are determined to
be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless Page 65 Unit 7 (b)
and harmful desires that plunge men into destruction and
Sexual Immorality
ruin. 10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious (Leviticus 20:10) Now regarding a man who commits
things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led adultery with another mans wife: The one who commits
astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over adultery with the wife of his fellow man should be put to
with many pains. death without fail, the adulterer and the adulteress.
(1 Timothy 2:9, 10) Likewise, the women should adorn (Leviticus 20:13) If a man lies down with a male the same
themselves in appropriate dress, with modesty and soundness as one lies down with a woman, both of them have done a
of mind, not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or detestable thing. They should be put to death without fail.
very expensive clothing, 10 but in the way that is proper for Their own blood is upon them.
women professing devotion to God, namely, through good
works. (Leviticus 20:15, 16) If a man has intercourse with a beast,
he should be put to death without fail, and you should kill the
(Psalm 68:6) God gives those who are alone a home to dwell beast. 16 If a woman approaches any beast to have intercourse
in; He leads prisoners out into prosperity. But the stubborn with it, you must kill the woman and the beast. They should
must live in a parched land. be put to death without fail. Their own blood is upon them.
(Philippians 4:5) Let your reasonableness become known to (Romans 1:24) Therefore, God, in keeping with the desires
all men. The Lord is near. of their hearts, gave them up to uncleanness, so that their
(1 Peter 5:6) Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty bodies might be dishonored among them.
hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time, (Romans 1:26, 27) That is why God gave them over to
Your Part in Keeping the congregation Clean uncontrolled sexual passion, for their females changed the
(2 Timothy 3:1-5) But know this, that in the last days critical natural use of themselves into one contrary to nature;
27
times hard to deal with will be here. 2 For men will be lovers likewise also the males left the natural use of the female
of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, and became violently inflamed in their lust toward one
blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, another, males with males, working what is obscene and
3
having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, receiving in themselves the full penalty, which was due for
slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of their error.
goodness, 4 betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride, (Romans 1:32) Although these know full well the righteous
lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God, 5 having an decree of Godthat those practicing such things are
appearance of godliness but proving false to its power; and deserving of deaththey not only keep on doing them but
from these turn away. also approve of those practicing them.
(2 Timothy 3:13) But wicked men and impostors will (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) Or do you not know that unrighteous
advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled. people will not inherit Gods Kingdom? Do not be misled.
(Jude 3, 4) Beloved ones, although I was making every effort Those who are sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, men
to write you about the salvation we hold in common, I found who submit to homosexual acts, men who practice
it necessary to write you to urge you to put up a hard fight for homosexuality, 10 thieves, greedy people, drunkards, revilers,
the faith that was once for all time delivered to the holy ones. and extortioners will not inherit Gods Kingdom.
4
My reason is that certain men have slipped in among you
who were long ago appointed to this judgment by the *** nwt p. 1711 Glossary ***
Scriptures; they are ungodly men who turn the undeserved
Sexual immorality. From the Greek porneia, a general
kindness of our God into an excuse for brazen conduct and
term for all unlawful sexual intercourse. It includes adultery,
who prove false to our only owner and Lord, Jesus Christ.
prostitution, sexual relations between unmarried individuals,
(Jude 11-13) Too bad for them, for they have followed the homosexuality, and bestiality. It is used figuratively in
path of Cain and have rushed into the erroneous course of Ba Revelation with regard to a religious prostitute called
laam for reward, and they have perished in the rebellious talk Babylon the Great to describe her consorting with the
of Korah! 12 These are the rocks hidden below water at your rulers of this world for power and material gain. (Rev 14:8;
love feasts while they feast with you, shepherds who feed 17:2; 18:3; Mt 5:32; Ac 15:29; Ga 5:19)See
themselves without fear; waterless clouds carried here and PROSTITUTE.
there by the wind; fruitless trees in late autumn, having died
89
Apostasy (Proverbs 6:19) A false witness who lies with every breath,
(Deuteronomy 13:13) Good-for-nothing men have gone out And anyone sowing contentions among brothers.
among you to turn away the inhabitants of their city, saying: (Colossians 3:9) Do not lie to one another. Strip off the old
Let us go and serve other gods, gods that you have not personality with its practices,
known, (Revelation 22:15) Outside are the dogs and those who
(Deuteronomy 13:15) you should without fail strike down practice spiritism and those who are sexually immoral and the
the inhabitants of that city with the sword. Devote it and murderers and the idolaters and everyone who loves and
everything that is in it, including its livestock, to destruction practices lying.
by the sword.
(2 Corinthians 6:14, 15) Do not become unevenly yoked *** it-2 p. 245 Lie ***
with unbelievers. For what fellowship do righteousness and Jehovah God cannot lie (Nu 23:19; Heb 6:13-18), and he
lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with hates a false tongue. (Pr 6:16-19) His law to the Israelites
darkness? 15 Further, what harmony is there between Christ required compensation for injuries resulting from deception
and Belial? Or what does a believer share in common with or malicious lying. (Le 6:2-7; 19:11, 12) And a person
an unbeliever? presenting false testimony was to receive the punishment that
(2 Corinthians 6:17, 18) Therefore, get out from among he desired to inflict upon another by means of his lies. (De
them, and separate yourselves, says Jehovah, and quit 19:15-21) Gods view of malicious lying, as reflected in the
touching the unclean thing; and I will take you in. Law, has not changed. Those desiring to gain his approval
18
And I will become a father to you, and you will become cannot engage in the practice of lying. (Ps 5:6; Pr 20:19; Col
sons and daughters to me, says Jehovah, the Almighty. 3:9, 10; 1Ti 3:11; Re 21:8, 27; 22:15) They cannot be living a
(2 John 7) For many deceivers have gone out into the world, lie, claiming to love God while hating their brother. (1Jo
those not acknowledging Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. 4:20, 21) For playing false to the holy spirit by lying, Ananias
This is the deceiver and the antichrist. and his wife lost their lives.Ac 5:1-11.
(2 John 9, 10) Everyone who pushes ahead and does not
remain in the teaching of the Christ does not have God. The Reviling; slander
one who does remain in this teaching is the one who has both
(Leviticus 19:16) You must not go around spreading
the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does
slander among your people. You must not stand up against the
not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your homes or
life of your fellow man. I am Jehovah.
say a greeting to him.
(1 Corinthians 6:10) thieves, greedy people, drunkards,
(Revelation 18:4) And I heard another voice out of heaven
revilers, and extortioners will not inherit Gods Kingdom.
say: Get out of her, my people, if you do not want to share
with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of
*** lv chap. 12 pp. 137-139 pars. 11-14 Speak What Is
her plagues.
Good for Building Up ***
Abortion
11
(Exodus 21:22-25) If men should struggle with each other Harmful gossip, slander. Gossip is idle talk about
and they hurt a pregnant woman and she gives birth people and their lives. Is all gossip bad? Not if we mean
prematurely but no fatality results, the offender must pay the innocent conversation in which we might share positive or
damages imposed on him by the husband of the woman; and helpful news, such as who just got baptized or who needs a
he must pay it through the judges. 23 But if a fatality does word of encouragement. First-century Christians had a keen
occur, then you must give life for life, 24 eye for eye, tooth for interest in one anothers welfare and shared appropriate
tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 burn for burn, wound for information about fellow believers. (Ephesians 6:21, 22;
wound, blow for blow. Colossians 4:8, 9) Gossip, however, can be harmful if it
distorts the facts or reveals private matters. Even more
serious, it can lead to slander, which is always damaging.
(Psalm 127:3) Look! Sons are an inheritance from Jehovah; Slander is the utterance of false charges . . . which defame
The fruit of the womb is a reward. and damage anothers reputation. The Pharisees, for
(Psalm 139:14-16) I praise you because in an awe-inspiring example, resorted to malicious slander in an attempt to
way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, I discredit Jesus. (Matthew 9:32-34; 12:22-24) Slander often
know this very well. 15 My bones were not hidden from you causes contention.Proverbs 26:20.
When I was made in secret, When I was woven in the depths 12
Jehovah does not view lightly those who use the gift of
of the earth. 16 Your eyes even saw me as an embryo; All its
speech to defame others or to cause divisions. He hates those
parts were written in your book Regarding the days when
causing contentions among brothers. (Proverbs 6:16-19)
they were formed, Before any of them existed.
The Greek word rendered slanderer is diabolos, which is
Deliberate, malicious lying; bearing false witness also used as a title of Satan. He is the Devil, the evil
(Proverbs 6:16) There are six things that Jehovah hates; Yes, slanderer of God. (Revelation 12:9, 10) Surely we want to
seven things that he detests: avoid speech that would cause us to become, in effect, a
devil. There is no room in the congregation for slanderous

90
speech that stirs up such works of the flesh as contentions Questions From Readers
and divisions. (Galatians 5:19-21) Hence, before repeating
some news about someone, ask yourself: Is it true? Would it Could a Christians practice of viewing pornography
be kind to repeat this? Is it necessary or advisable to share become so bad that it results in his being expelled from
this information?1 Thessalonians 4:11. the Christian congregation?
13
Abusive speech. As previously noted, words have the Yes, it could. That underscores why it is vital to shun
power to hurt. Admittedly, at times because of human vigorously all pornographyboth written material and
imperfection, we all say things we regret. However, the Bible imagesin magazines, in films, in videos, and on the
warns about a pattern of speech that has absolutely no place Internet.
in a Christian home or in the congregation. Paul admonished
Christians: Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath Pornography is found everywhere around the globe. The
and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you. Internet makes pornographic material more available than
(Ephesians 4:31) Other translations render the phrase ever and has increased the number affected by this terrible
abusive speech as evil words, injurious language, and plague. Some, young and old, have accidentally come across
insulting language. Abusive speechincluding degrading pornographic Web sites. Others have deliberately gone to
name-calling and harsh, relentless criticismcan strip others them, feeling less inhibited because they can read or view
of their dignity and leave them feeling worthless. The tender pornography in secretat home or at the office. Why should
and trusting hearts of children are especially vulnerable to the this seriously concern Christians?
crushing effects of abusive speech.Colossians 3:21.
We find a fundamental reason in Jesus warning:
14
In the strongest possible terms, the Bible condemns Everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a
revilingthe practice of vilifying others with insulting, passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his
derogatory, or abusive language. An individual who makes a heart. (Matt. 5:28) Of course, normal sexual relations are
practice of such speech puts himself in a dangerous position, proper and a source of pleasure between marriage mates.
for a reviler can be removed from the congregation if he fails (Prov. 5:15-19; 1 Cor. 7:2-5) But that is not the focus of
to heed repeated efforts to help him change. Unless he pornography. Rather, it features illicit sex that stimulates the
changes his ways, he could also lose out on Kingdom sort of immoral thoughts that Jesus warned against. Plainly,
blessings. (1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 6:9, 10) Clearly, then, there reading or viewing pornography goes directly contrary to the
is no way for us to remain in Gods love if we make a divine direction: Deaden, therefore, your body members that
practice of uttering speech that is unwholesome, untrue, or are upon the earth as respects fornication, uncleanness, sexual
unkind. Such speech tears down. appetite, hurtful desire, and covetousness, which is
idolatry.Col. 3:5.
Uncleanness; brazen conduct What if a Christian did view pornography on an occasion
(2 Corinthians 12:21) Perhaps when I come again, my God or two? His case might, in a sense, be likened to the
might humiliate me before you, and I may have to mourn dangerous situation in which the psalmist Asaph once found
over many of those who previously sinned but have not himself: As for me, my feet had almost turned aside, my
repented of their uncleanness and sexual immorality and steps had nearly been made to slip. How could the Christian
brazen conduct that they have practiced. have a clean conscience and be at peace with God if he was
gazing at pornographic images of naked men or women or of
(Galatians 5:19) Now the works of the flesh are plainly seen,
a couple engaging in fornication? Nor was Asaph at peace: I
and they are sexual immorality, uncleanness, brazen conduct,
came to be plagued all day long, and my correction is every
(Ephesians 4:18, 19) They are in darkness mentally and morning.Ps. 73:2, 14.
alienated from the life that belongs to God, because of the
ignorance that is in them, because of the insensitivity of their A Christian caught up in that badness should wake up
hearts. 19 Having gone past all moral sense, they gave and face his need for spiritual help. That help is available in
themselves over to brazen conduct to practice every sort of the congregation: Even though a man takes some false step
uncleanness with greediness. before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications
(2 Peter 2:7) And he rescued righteous Lot, who was greatly try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness, as you each
distressed by the brazen conduct of the lawless people keep an eye on yourself. (Gal. 6:1) A Christian elder or two
could give him the help he needs, including prayers of faith
*** nwt p. 1694 Glossary *** that can make the indisposed one well, and his sin can be
forgiven. (Jas. 5:13-15) Those who have sought help to
Brazen conduct. From the Greek aselgeia, a phrase remove the stain of pornography have seen that drawing near
pertaining to acts that are serious violations of Gods laws to God has been good for them, as it was for Asaph.Ps.
and that reflect a brazen or boldly contemptuous attitude; a 73:28.
spirit that betrays disrespect or even contempt for authority,
laws, and standards. The expression does not refer to wrong However, the apostle Paul said that some who sinned did
conduct of a minor nature.Ga 5:19; 2Pe 2:7 not repent over their uncleanness and fornication and loose
conduct. (2 Cor. 12:21) Regarding the Greek term there
*** w12 3/15 pp. 30-31 Questions From Readers *** rendered uncleanness, Professor Marvin R. Vincent wrote
91
that it has the sense of impurity on the side of sordidness. It Lit., a voice of a curse (oath). Probably an announcement
is a sad fact that some pornography is much worse than regarding a wrongdoing that included a curse pronounced
scenes of nakedness or of a man and woman engaging in against the wrongdoer or against the witness in case he
fornication. There is sordid, abhorrent pornography involving failed to testify.
homosexuality (sex between those of the same gender), group
sex, bestiality, child pornography, gang rape, the brutalizing
(1 Corinthians 5:1, 2) Actually sexual immorality is reported
of women, bondage, or sadistic torture. Some in Pauls day
among you, and such immorality as is not even found among
who were in darkness mentally came to be past all moral
the nationsof a man living with his fathers wife. 2 And are
sense [and] gave themselves over to loose conduct to work
you proud of it? Should you not rather mourn, so that the man
uncleanness of every sort with greediness.Eph. 4:18, 19.
who committed this deed should be taken away from your
Paul also mentioned uncleanness at Galatians 5:19. A midst?
British scholar noted that it may here [signify] more (James 5:14) Is there anyone sick among you? Let him call
especially all unnatural lusts. What Christian would deny the elders of the congregation to him, and let them pray over
that the above-mentioned abhorrent, sexually degrading him, applying oil to him in the name of Jehovah.
forms of pornography are unnatural lusts and are sordid? (1 Corinthians 1:11) For some from the house of Chloe
Paul concluded at Galatians 5:19-21 that those who have informed me regarding you, my brothers, that there are
practice such uncleanness will not inherit Gods kingdom. dissensions among you.
Consequently, if someone developed an entrenched practice
of viewing abhorrent, sexually degrading pornography, (1 Corinthians 5:6) Your boasting is not good. Do you not
perhaps over a considerable period of time, and would not know that a little leaven ferments the whole batch of dough?
repent and turn around, he could not remain in the Christian (1 Timothy 5:22) Never lay your hands hastily on any man;
congregation. He would have to be disfellowshipped in order neither become a sharer in the sins of others; keep yourself
to preserve the cleanness and spirit of the congregation. chaste.
1 Cor. 5:5, 11.
It is good to know that some who fell into viewing Page 66 Unit 7 (b)
abhorrent forms of pornography went to the elders and
received the spiritual help needed to make drastic changes. (James 5:14-16) Is there anyone sick among you? Let him
Jesus appealed to Christians in ancient Sardis: Strengthen call the elders of the congregation to him, and let them pray
the things remaining that were ready to die, . . . continue over him, applying oil to him in the name of Jehovah. 15 And
mindful of how you have received and how you heard, and go the prayer of faith will make the sick one well, and Jehovah
on keeping it, and repent. Certainly unless you wake up, . . . will raise him up. Also, if he has committed sins, he will be
you will not know at all at what hour I shall come upon you. forgiven. 16 Therefore, openly confess your sins to one
(Rev. 3:2, 3) It is possible to repent and be snatched out of the another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed.
fire, as it were.Jude 22, 23. A righteous mans supplication has a powerful effect.
How much better, though, it is for each of us to be firmly (Galatians 5:16, 17) But I say, Keep walking by spirit and
resolved not to come anywhere near that dangerous position. you will carry out no fleshly desire at all. 17 For the flesh is
Yes, we should be absolutely determined to avoid all forms of against the spirit in its desire, and the spirit against the flesh;
pornography! these are opposed to each other, so that you do not do the
very things you want to do.
Drunkenness (Galatians 5:19-21) Now the works of the flesh are plainly
(1 Corinthians 5:11) But now I am writing you to stop seen, and they are sexual immorality, uncleanness, brazen
keeping company with anyone called a brother who is conduct, 20 idolatry, spiritism, hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of
sexually immoral or a greedy person or an idolater or a anger, dissensions, divisions, sects, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild
reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with parties, and things like these. I am forewarning you about
such a man. these things, the same way I already warned you, that those
who practice such things will not inherit Gods Kingdom.
(1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) Or do you not know that unrighteous
people will not inherit Gods Kingdom? Do not be misled. (John 16:33) I have said these things to you so that by means
Those who are sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, men of me you may have peace. In the world you will have
who submit to homosexual acts, men who practice tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world.
homosexuality, 10 thieves, greedy people, drunkards, revilers, (Jude 3) Beloved ones, although I was making every effort to
and extortioners will not inherit Gods Kingdom. write you about the salvation we hold in common, I found it
(Leviticus 5:1) If someone sins because he has heard a necessary to write you to urge you to put up a hard fight for
public call to testify and he is a witness or has seen or learned the faith that was once for all time delivered to the holy ones.
about it and he does not report it, then he will answer for his
error. Page 67 Unit 8 (a)
Walk in the Way of Integrity
*** nwt Leviticus 5:1 *** OPENING DISCUSSION
92
do, however, advocate the government of the country they
(Job 1:9-11) At that Satan answered Jehovah: Is it for represent. The same is true of Christs anointed followers,
nothing that Job has feared God? 10 Have you not put up a whose citizenship exists in the heavens. (Philippians 3:20)
protective hedge around him and his house and everything he In fact, thanks to their zealous Kingdom preaching, they have
has? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his helped millions of Christs other sheep to become
livestock has spread out in the land. 11 But, for a change, reconciled to God. (John 10:16; Matthew 25:31-40) These
stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he latter ones serve as Christs envoys, as it were, in support of
will surely curse you to your very face. Jesus anointed brothers. As one united flock advocating the
(Job 2:4) But Satan answered Jehovah: Skin for skin. A man Messianic Kingdom, both groups maintain strict neutrality
will give everything that he has for his life. toward the worlds political affairs.Isaiah 2:2-4.
(Proverbs 27:11) Be wise, my son, and make my heart
rejoice, So that I can make a reply to him who taunts me.
(Job 27:5) It is unthinkable for me to declare you men *** lv chap. 5 p. 52 How to Keep Separate From the
righteous! Until I die, I will not renounce my integrity! World ***

QUESTION OUTLINE [Box on page 52]


What It Means to Walk in the Way of Integrity EARLY CHRISTIAN NEUTRALS
Secular history provides ample evidence that the early
*** w04 12/1 p. 13 par. 4 Walk in the Way of Integrity *** Christians remained politically neutral and refrained from
4 warfare. Says the book The Beginnings of Christianity: The
Integrity carries the thought of being upright, blameless, founders of Christianity guarded with sedulous care against
righteous, and faultless. However, integrity involves more the development of anything like a disposition to interfere
than doing what is right. It is moral soundness or directly with the established political order. Similarly, the
completeness of heart devotion to God. Satan questioned book On the Road to Civilization notes: Early Christianity
Jobs motives when he told God: For a change, thrust out was little understood and was regarded with little favor by
your hand, please, and touch as far as [Jobs] bone and his those who ruled the pagan world. . . . Christians refused to
flesh and see whether he will not curse you to your very share certain duties of Roman citizens. . . . They would not
face. (Job 2:5) Along with proper action, integrity requires hold political office.
right heart motivation. Regarding the early Christians and military service, German
theologian Peter Meinhold said: Being a Christian and a
Page 68 Unit 8 (a) soldier was considered irreconcilable. In his essay An
Inquiry Into the Accordancy of War With the Principles of
(Psalm 119:1-3) Happy are those who are blameless in their Christianity, religion writer Jonathan Dymond wrote that for
way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah. 2 Happy are those who
observe his reminders, Who search for him with all their some time after the death of Jesus, His followers refused to
heart. 3 They practice no unrighteousness; They walk in his engage in [war]; whatever were the consequences, whether
ways reproach, or imprisonment, or death. Dymond added: These
facts are indisputable. Only when Christianity became
Maintaining our Integrity and Neutrality Under Trial corrupted, said another writer, did Christians become
(Matthew 22:21) They said: Caesars. Then he said to
them: Pay back, therefore, Caesars things to Caesar, but soldiers
Gods things to God.
Wars *** it-1 pp. 175-176 Army ***
*** lv chap. 5 pp. 51-52 pars. 3-4 How to Keep Separate
From the World *** Those Known as Early Christians. Early Christians
3 refused to serve in the Roman army, in both the legions and
Instead of participating in the politics of his day, Jesus
auxilia, considering such service as wholly incompatible with
focused on preaching about Gods Kingdom, the future
the teachings of Christianity. Says Justin Martyr, of the
heavenly government of which he was the prospective King.
second century C.E., in his Dialogue With Trypho, a Jew
(Daniel 7:13, 14; Luke 4:43; 17:20, 21) Thus, when before
(CX): We who were filled with war, and mutual slaughter,
Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, Jesus could say: My
and every wickedness, have each through the whole earth
kingdom is no part of this world. (John 18:36) His faithful
changed our warlike weapons,our swords into
followers imitate his example by giving their loyalty to Christ
ploughshares, and our spears into implements of tillage.
and his Kingdom and by announcing that Kingdom to the
(The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. I, p. 254) In his treatise The
world. (Matthew 24:14) We are therefore ambassadors
Chaplet, or De Corona (XI), when discussing whether
substituting for Christ, wrote the apostle Paul. As
warfare is proper at all for Christians, Tertullian (c.
substitutes for Christ we beg: Become reconciled to
200 C.E.) argued from Scripture the unlawfulness even of a
God.2 Corinthians 5:20.
military life itself, concluding, I banish from us the military
4
Because ambassadors represent a foreign sovereign or life.The Ante-Nicene Fathers, 1957, Vol. III, pp. 99, 100.
state, they do not interfere in the internal affairs of the
A careful review of all the information available goes to
countries where they serve; they remain neutral. Ambassadors
show that, until the time of Marcus Aurelius [121-180 C.E.],
93
no Christian became a soldier; and no soldier, after becoming Nebuchadnezzar of ancient Babylon. To impress the people
a Christian, remained in military service. (The Rise of with his majesty and religious ardor, this powerful monarch
Christianity, by E. W. Barnes, 1947, p. 333) It will be seen erected a great image and compelled his subjects to bow
presently that the evidence for the existence of a single down to it while music, like an anthem, was being played.
Christian soldier between 60 and about 165 A.D. is However, three HebrewsShadrach, Meshach, and
exceedingly slight; . . . up to the reign of Marcus Aurelius at Abednegorefused to bow to the image, even on pain of
least, no Christian would become a soldier after his baptism. death.Daniel, chapter 3.
(The Early Church and the World, by C. J. Cadoux, 1955, pp.
275, 276) In the second century, Christianity . . . had In our age, nationalisms chief symbol of faith and
affirmed the incompatibility of military service with central object of worship is the flag, wrote historian Carlton
Christianity. (A Short History of Rome, by G. Ferrero and Hayes. Men bare their heads when the flag passes by; and in
C. Barbagallo, 1919, p. 382) The behavior of the Christians praise of the flag poets write odes and children sing hymns.
was very different from that of the Romans. . . . Since Christ Nationalism, he added, also has its holy days, such as the
had preached peace, they refused to become soldiers. (Our Fourth of July in the United States, as well as its saints and
World Through the Ages, by N. Platt and M. J. Drummond, heroes and its temples, or shrines. In a public ceremony in
1961, p. 125) The first Christians thought it was wrong to Brazil, the minister general of the army acknowledged: The
fight, and would not serve in the army even when the Empire flag is venerated and worshiped . . . just as the Fatherland is
needed soldiers. (The New Worlds Foundations in the Old, worshiped. Yes, the flag, like the cross, is sacred, The
by R. and W. M. West, 1929, p. 131) The Christians . . . Encyclopedia Americana once observed.
shrank from public office and military service. (Persecution The aforementioned encyclopedia more recently noted
of the Christians in Gaul, A.D. 177, by F. P. G. Guizot in that national anthems are expressions of patriotic feeling and
The Great Events by Famous Historians, edited by often include an invocation for divine guidance and
R. Johnson, 1905, Vol. III, p. 246) While they [the protection of the people or their rulers. Jehovahs servants
Christians] inculcated the maxims of passive obedience, they are not being unreasonable, therefore, when they view
refused to take any active part in the civil administration or patriotic ceremonies involving the flag salute and national
the military defence of the empire. . . . It was impossible that anthems as religious. In fact, when commenting on the
the Christians, without renouncing a more sacred duty, could refusal of children of Jehovahs Witnesses to give homage to
assume the character of soldiers, of magistrates, or of the flag or to swear the oath of allegiance in U.S. schools, the
princes.The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, by book The American Character stated: That these daily
Edward Gibbon, Vol. I, p. 416 rituals are religious has been at last affirmed by the Supreme
Court in a series of cases.
Politics, voting*** lv p. 213 Flag Salute, Voting, and
Civilian Service *** While not joining in ceremonies that they view as
unscriptural, Jehovahs people certainly respect the right of
Voting in political elections. True Christians respect the others to do so. They also respect national flags as emblems
right of others to vote. They do not campaign against and recognize duly constituted governments as superior
elections, and they cooperate with elected authorities. authorities serving as Gods minister. (Romans 13:1-4)
However, they remain resolutely neutral with regard to the Hence, Jehovahs Witnesses heed the exhortation to pray
political affairs of the nations. (Matthew 22:21; 1 Peter 3:16) concerning kings and all those who are in high station. Our
What should a Christian do in lands where voting is motive, though, is in order that we may go on leading a calm
compulsory or in a situation where feelings run high against and quiet life with full godly devotion and seriousness.
those who do not go to the voting booth? Remembering that 1 Timothy 2:2.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego went as far as the plain of
Dura, a Christian, under similar circumstances, may decide to
go to the booth if his conscience permits. However, he will (John 15:17-21) These things I command you, that you love
take care not to violate his neutrality. He should take into one another. 18 If the world hates you, you know that it has
account the following six principles: hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were part of the world,
the world would be fond of what is its own. Now because you
are no part of the world, but I have chosen you out of the
world, for this reason the world hates you. 20 Keep in mind
Flags, national symbols, anthems the word I said to you: A slave is not greater than his master.
*** lv pp. 212-213 Flag Salute, Voting, and Civilian If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if
Service *** they have observed my word, they will also observe yours.
Flag Salute, Voting, and Civilian Service 21
But they will do all these things against you on account of
my name, because they do not know the One who sent me.
Flag salute. Jehovahs Witnesses believe that bowing (John 17:14) I have given your word to them, but the world
down to a flag or saluting it, often in conjunction with an has hated them, because they are no part of the world, just as
anthem, is a religious act that ascribes salvation, not to God, I am no part of the world.
but to the State or to its leaders. (Isaiah 43:11; 1 Corinthians
(John 17:16) They are no part of the world, just as I am no
10:14; 1 John 5:21) One such leader was King
part of the world.
94
(John 18:36) Jesus answered: My Kingdom is no part of imprisoned, the inmates asked: Who is going to bring you
this world. If my Kingdom were part of this world, my food this time?
attendants would have fought that I should not be handed We answered that our brothers would bring us food, but the
over to the Jews. But as it is, my Kingdom is not from this inmates shook their heads in disbelief. They knew that there
source. were no other European Witnesses in the area. How surprised
they were the next day when our Congolese brothers arrived
*** lv chap. 5 p. 55 How to Keep Separate From the with so much food that we could share it with those
World ***Box prisoners! It was a wonderful witness concerning our
AM I REMAINING NEUTRAL? international brotherhood and the love that unites us. Those
dear brothers who brought us food risked imprisonment to do
Principle: My kingdom is no part of this world. this. Five days later, we were released. We then flew to
John 18:36. England, arriving just in time for the convention.
Some questions to ask yourself
Page 69 Unit 8 (a)
How would I explain why saluting the flag is a form of idol
worship?Exodus 20:4, 5; 1 John 5:21. (Acts 5:29) In answer Peter and the other apostles said:
We must obey God as ruler rather than men.
When explaining my nonparticipation in certain national
ceremonies, how would I show my deep respect for those *** km 2/94 p. 4 pars. 11-12 Objects of Hatred by All the
who do not share my beliefs?1 Peter 3:15. Nations ***
What are my reasons for not supporting any political parties 11
We must never lose sight of the fact that the message
or performing any type of military service?John 13:34; we proclaim originates, not with us, but with Jehovah. (Jer.
1 John 3:10-12. 1:9) We are under obligation to heed the exhortation: Call
upon his name. Make known among the peoples his
dealings . . . in all the earth. (Isa. 12:4, 5) He has tolerated
(1 Corinthians 12:25, 26) so that there should be no division
the mistreatment of his people for a specific purpose, namely,
in the body, but its members should have mutual concern for
to have his name declared in all the earth. (Ex. 9:16) We are
one another. 26 If one member suffers, all the other members
doing a work decreed by Jehovah, and he is the one who
suffer with it; or if a member is glorified, all the other
gives us the courage to speak out with boldness. (Acts 4:29-
members rejoice with it.
31) This is the most important, beneficial, and urgent work
that can be done in these final days of the old system.
*** yb04 pp. 219-220 Democratic Republic of Congo 12
This knowledge gives us the courage to take a firm
(Kinshasa) *** stand in direct opposition to Satan and this world. (1 Pet.
5:8, 9) Knowing that Jehovah is with us makes us
[Box/Picture on page 219, 220]
courageous and strong, dispelling any cause for fear before
An Interview With Godfrey Bint
our persecutors. (Deut. 31:6; Heb. 13:6) While we will
Born: 1945
always try to be tactful, reasonable, and discreet when
Baptized: 1956
threatened by opposers, we will make it clear that we are
Profile: Graduate of the 47th class of Gilead. Served in
determined to obey God as ruler rather than men when our
Congo for 17 years. Presently serves on the Branch
worship is challenged. (Acts 5:29) When there is reasonable
Committee in Rwanda. Speaks English, French,
opportunity to speak out in our defense, we will do so. (1 Pet.
Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba.
3:15) However, we will not waste our time disputing with
In 1973, I was in field service with a local brother in hardened opponents who are only interested in discrediting
Kananga. The authorities came into a home where we were us. Rather than become incensed or try to retaliate when they
conducting a Bible study and arrested us. We spent the next malign or falsely accuse us, we simply let them be.Matt.
two weeks in prison. During this time, my missionary partner, 15:14.
Mike Gates, brought us food, since none was available in the (Philippians 1:27-30) Only behave in a manner worthy of
prison itself. Finally, we were released. Three months later, the good news about the Christ, so that whether I come and
the day Mike and I were booked to take a plane to attend an see you or I am absent, I may hear about you and learn that
international convention in England, we heard that all the you are standing firm in one spirit, with one soul, striving
brothers in a nearby congregation had been arrested. We side by side for the faith of the good news, 28 and in no way
wanted to see them and to give them some food. To our being frightened by your opponents. This very thing is a
surprise, when we asked to see the brothers, a magistrate proof of destruction for them, but of salvation for you; and
ordered our arrest. As we waited for the prison bus to take us this is from God. 29 For you have been given the privilege in
to the prison, we heard our plane take off. You can imagine behalf of Christ, not only to put your faith in him but also to
how our hearts sank at that sound! suffer in his behalf. 30 For you are facing the same struggle
When we arrived at the prison, I saw that many inmates that you saw me face, which you now hear that I am still
were still there from my previous stay three months earlier. facing.
Because my partner who had brought me food was now also
95
18
(Philippians 4:6, 7) Do not be anxious over anything, but in Finally, coping with trials and tribulations can benefit
everything by prayer and supplication along with us personally. In what way? The disciple James reminded his
thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; 7 and fellow Christians: Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you
the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard meet with various trials, knowing as you do that this tested
your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus. quality of your faith works out endurance. Yes, persecution
can refine our faith and strengthen our endurance. Thus, we
*** w11 1/15 pp. 29-30 par. 15 Empowered to Overcome do not dread it, nor do we seek unscriptural means to evade
Any Trial *** or end it. Rather, we heed James admonition: Let endurance
15
have its work complete, that you may be complete and sound
The apostle Paul endured many life-threatening in all respects, not lacking in anything.James 1:2-4.
adversities for the sake of his faith. (2 Cor. 11:23-28) How
did he maintain balance and emotional stability under those *** w85 11/15 pp. 12-15 pars. 6-26 Can You Prepare Now
trying circumstances? By prayerful reliance on Jehovah. for Persecution? ***
During the time of testing that apparently culminated in his
6
martyrdom, Paul wrote: The Lord stood near me and infused It is difficult to make physical preparations for
power into me, that through me the preaching might be fully persecution because you do not know just what the situation
accomplished and all the nations might hear it; and I was will be. Until it actually happens, you do not know whether a
delivered from the lions mouth. (2 Tim. 4:17) Therefore, ban will be strictly or loosely enforced, or even what will be
from personal experience, Paul could assure fellow believers banned. Perhaps only the house-to-house preaching work will
that there was no need to be anxious over anything.Read be forbidden, or maybe religious meetings. Sometimes the
Philippians 4:6, 7, 13. legal organization of Jehovahs Witnesses is dissolved, or
certain individuals are immediately imprisoned. We can have
(1 Chronicles 29:17) I well know, O my God, that you in mind various places where literature could be hidden in
examine the heart and that you take pleasure in integrity. In case of need. But beyond that, there is little we can do in the
the uprightness of my heart, I have voluntarily offered all way of physical preparation.
these things, and I am overjoyed to see your people who are 7
present here make voluntary offerings to you. However, you can prepare your mind and heart, and this
is far more important. Set your mind on why persecution is
(1 Corinthians 10:13) No temptation has come upon you permitted and why you may be haled before rulers. For a
except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he witness, said Jesus. (Matthew 10:16-19) If your heart is fully
will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but prepared to stay faithful no matter what, Jehovah can reveal
along with the temptation he will also make the way out so the wise way to act when the need arises. Hence, how can we
that you may be able to endure it. prepare ourselves spiritually for persecution?
(2 Peter 2:9) So, then, Jehovah knows how to rescue people
of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous How Do You Deal With People?
people to be destroyed on the day of judgment, 8
The apostle Paul said: I take pleasure in weaknesses, in
insults, in cases of need, in persecutions and difficulties, for
*** w10 11/15 p. 32 par. 20 We Shall Walk in Our Christ. (2 Corinthians 12:10) Did Paul enjoy being insulted?
Integrity! *** Of course not. But persecution often involves being insulted,
20 and if this was what it took to bring praise to Gods name,
Job was able to maintain his integrity because he loved
then Paul was happy to endure it.
God, and Jehovah loved and helped him. Said Job: Life and
loving-kindness [loyal love, ftn.] you [Jehovah] have 9
We, too, can be sure that at some time we will have to
worked with me; and your own care has guarded my spirit. endure insults . . . for Christ. We may be verbally, or even
(Job 10:12) Moreover, Job showed love for others, realizing physically, abused. Will we endure? Well, how do we view
that anyone withholding loyal love from fellow humans will ourselves now? Do we take ourselves very seriously and react
abandon the reverential fear of the Almighty. (Job 6:14) quickly to real or imagined insults? If so, then why not work
Integrity keepers love God and neighbor.Matt. 22:37-40 on developing long-suffering, . . . mildness, self-control?
(Galatians 5:22, 23) This will be excellent training for
Integrity under Trial
Christian living now, and it could save your life in times of
(Matthew 5:10) Happy are those who have been persecuted
persecution.
for righteousness sake, since the Kingdom of the heavens
belongs to them. How Do You View Field Service?
(James 1:2-4) Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you 10
Often, the first thing restricted under a ban is the public
meet with various trials, 3 knowing as you do that this tested
preaching of the good news. Yet preaching and disciple
quality of your faith produces endurance. 4 But let endurance
making are vital in these last days. How else will people learn
complete its work, so that you may be complete and sound in
about Gods Kingdom? Hence, the proper reaction to such a
all respects, not lacking in anything.
ban is the one expressed by the apostles, when the Jewish
religious leaders tried to ban their preaching activity. (Acts
*** w03 10/1 p. 13 par. 18 Persecuted for Righteousness 5:28, 29) Under ban, some avenues of preaching may be
Sake *** closed. But, somehow, the work has to be done. Would you
96
have the strength to continue preaching under the pressure of weaknesses, just as they doubtless are putting up with yours?
persecution? Do not be critical of others and thus greatly discourage them.
11
Also, train yourself and your children to respect other
Well, how do you view the preaching work now? Do peoples property while attending Congregation Book
you permit small obstacles to interfere and make you Studies. Under persecution, such respect will promote
irregular in the field service? If so, what would you do under peaceful relations.
a ban? Do you fear men now? Are you willing to preach from
house to house on your own street? Are you afraid to work
alone? In some lands, two people working together often
draw too much attention. So, where it is safe to do so, why Are You Inquisitive?
not work alone now from time to time? It will be good 18
By nature, some of us are very inquisitive. We cannot
training. bear not being in the know. Are you like that? If so,
12
Do you share in magazine street work? Do you have consider this: Sometimes, when the work of Jehovahs
the courage and initiative to create opportunities for informal Witnesses has been banned, the authorities try to discover
witnessing? Do you work business territories? Are you afraid their organizational arrangements and the names of
to approach wealthy or influential people? If you only share responsible overseers. If you were one who knew these
in certain kinds of preaching, what will you do if, under ban, things, you could be subjected to physical abuse in an effort
that kind of preaching is no longer possible? to force you to reveal them. And if you did reveal them, the
work of your brothers could be seriously affected. Hence,
13
Do you recognize that you have a weakness in some sometimes it is safer to know only as much as you need to
respect? Now is the time to work on it. Learn to rely on know and no more.
Jehovah and become more qualified as a minister. Then you 19
will be better equipped to preach now and better prepared to Can you train for that now? Yes. For example, if there
persevere in times of persecution. is a judicial committee case in the congregation, individuals
should be satisfied with whatever the elders see fit to say and
Are You Reliable? not pry in order to find out any details. Wives and children of
14
elders should not try to pressure them into revealing
Throughout the Christian Greek Scriptures, individuals confidential matters. In every way, we should learn not to
are mentioned who were towers of strength in the meddle in what does not concern us.2 Thessalonians
congregation. For example, Onesiphorus courageously helped 3:11.
Paul when he was in prison in Rome. (2 Timothy 1:16)
Phoebe was recommended because of her hard work in the Are You a Bible Student?
congregation at Cenchreae. (Romans 16:1, 2) Such men and 20
women must have been a fine stabilizing influence when The Bible is the basis for a Christians spiritual
persecution broke out. They stayed awake, stood firm in the strength. It gives him answers to his most important questions
faith, carried on as men, grew mighty.1 Corinthians 16:13. and grants access to the wisdom of God himself. (2 Timothy
3:14-16) All Christians acknowledge this in principle, but
15
All Christians, particularly elders, should try to make what part does the Bible really play in your life? Do you
progress and become like the strong early Christians. study it regularly and allow it to guide you in everything you
(1 Timothy 4:15) Learn to keep confidential matters private do?Psalm 119:105.
and to make decisions based on Scriptural principles. Train 21
yourself to discern Christian qualities in others so that you Often, access to our Bible literature is severely
will know who will be reliable under pressure. Work, with restricted when the work is banned. Sometimes, even Bibles
Jehovahs strength, to become a pillar in your congregation, a are hard to find. Under such circumstances, the holy spirit
person who helps others rather than one who always needs will remind you of things you have learned in times past. But
help.Galatians 6:5. it will not remind you of things you have not learned!
Therefore, the more you study now, the more will be stored in
How Do You Get Along With People? your mind and heart for the holy spirit to bring out in times of
16
need.Mark 13:11.
The apostle Paul encouraged us: Clothe yourselves
with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, lowliness Do You Pray?
of mind, mildness, and long-suffering. Continue putting up 22
with one another and forgiving one another freely. This is an important question when we think of
(Colossians 3:12, 13) Is this easy for you? Or do other persecution. The Bible counsels: Persevere in prayer.
peoples imperfections irritate you unduly? Do you quickly (Romans 12:12) Prayer is direct communication with Jehovah
take offense or get discouraged? If so, here is another field God. Through it we can ask for the strength to endure
where preparation can be made. difficulties and make right decisions, as well as build a
personal relationship with Jehovah God. Even if opposers
17
In lands where meetings are banned, Christians take away our literature, our Bibles, and our association with
regularly come together in small numbers. In such other Christians, they can never take away our privilege of
circumstances, their shortcomings become even more prayer. In the strongest prison, a Christian can get in touch
evident. So why not train yourself now to put up with others with God. Taking full advantage of the privilege of prayer,

97
then, is a fine way to prepare for whatever the future may because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in
hold. behalf of his name.
Do You Trust Authority? (1 Peter 3:13, 14) Indeed, who will harm you if you become
zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for
23
Building up this trust is also important. The elders in the sake of righteousness, you are happy. However, do not
the congregation are a part of Gods provision to protect us. fear what they fear, nor be disturbed.
Elders need to act in a way that deserves trust, and the rest of
the congregation needs to learn to give them their trust. *** w00 4/1 p. 22 par. 17 Fighters Against God Will Not
(Isaiah 32:1, 2; Hebrews 13:7, 17) Even more important, we Prevail! ***
should learn to trust the faithful and discreet slave. 17
Matthew 24:45-47. Our enemies fight against us without cause, but we do
not lose courage. (Psalm 109:1-3) Never will we allow those
24
Enemies may spread lies about Gods organization. who hate our Bible message to intimidate us into
(1 Timothy 4:1, 2) In one country, some Christians were compromising our faith. Though we expect our spiritual fight
misled to believe that the Governing Body of Jehovahs to intensify, we know the outcome. Like Jeremiah, we will
Witnesses had forsaken Christianity, whereas they themselves experience the fulfillment of the prophetic words: They will
were still remaining faithful to it. A good way to prepare to be certain to fight against you, but they will not prevail
resist attacks like this is to build a strong love for your against you, for I am with you, is the utterance of Jehovah,
brothers and learn to trust in Jehovahs arrangement of things. to deliver you. (Jeremiah 1:19) Yes, we know that fighters
1 John 3:11. against God will not prevail!
You Can Be Victorious Applying bible Principles-The Key to Integrity
25
The aged apostle John, after suffering persecution, told (Romans 13:1-7) Let every person be in subjection to the
us: Everything that has been born from God conquers the superior authorities, for there is no authority except by God;
world. And this is the conquest that has conquered the world, the existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions
our faith. (1 John 5:4) You cannot conquer in your own by God. 2 Therefore, whoever opposes the authority has taken
strength. Satan and his world are stronger than you are. But a stand against the arrangement of God; those who have taken
they are not stronger than Jehovah God. Hence, if we obey a stand against it will bring judgment against themselves.
3
Gods commands, praying for his spirit to uphold us and For those rulers are an object of fear, not to the good deed,
relying on him completely for strength to endure, then we can but to the bad. Do you want to be free of fear of the
come off victorious.Habakkuk 3:13, 18; Revelation 15:2; authority? Keep doing good, and you will have praise from it;
4
1 Corinthians 15:57. for it is Gods minister to you for your good. But if you are
26
doing what is bad, be in fear, for it is not without purpose that
In all lands, there are some Christians being it bears the sword. It is Gods minister, an avenger to express
persecuted, either by opposed marriage mates or in some wrath against the one practicing what is bad. 5 There is
other way. In some lands, all of Gods servants are suffering therefore compelling reason for you to be in subjection, not
because of the official acts of the local government. But even only on account of that wrath but also on account of your
if, right now, you personally are not suffering opposition or conscience. 6 That is why you are also paying taxes; for they
unusual hardship, remember that it could happen at any time. are Gods public servants constantly serving this very
Jesus said that persecution of Christians would be a part of purpose. 7 Render to all their dues: to the one who calls for
the sign of the time of the end; hence, we should always the tax, the tax; to the one who calls for the tribute, the
expect it. (Matthew 24:9) So why not prepare for it now? Be tribute; to the one who calls for fear, such fear; to the one
determined that, whatever may lie ahead, your conduct will who calls for honor, such honor.
always bring praise to your heavenly Father, Jehovah God.
Proverbs 27:11. *** w96 5/1 p. 10 par. 3 God and Caesar ***
3
Similarly, the State exercises its authority only because
(Isaiah 54:17) No weapon formed against you will have any God as Sovereign Ruler permits it to do so. (John 19:11)
success, And you will condemn any tongue that rises up Thus, the existing authorities can be said to stand placed
against you in the judgment. This is the heritage of the in their relative positions by God. Relative to Jehovahs
servants of Jehovah, And their righteousness is from me, supreme sovereign authority, theirs is by far a lesser
declares Jehovah. authority. However, they are Gods minister, Gods public
(Jeremiah 1:19) And they will certainly fight against you, servants, in that they provide necessary services, maintain
But they will not prevail against you, For I am with you, law and order, and punish evildoers. (Romans 13:1, 4, 6) So
declares Jehovah, to save you. Christians need to understand that just because Satan is the
(Acts 5:40, 41) At this they took his advice, and they invisible ruler of this world, or system, they are not
summoned the apostles, flogged them, and ordered them to subjecting themselves to him when they recognize their
stop speaking on the basis of Jesus name, and let them go. relative subjection to the State. They are obeying God. In this
41
So they went out from before the Sanhedrin, rejoicing year, 1996, the political State is still a part of the
arrangement of God, a temporary arrangement that God

98
permits to exist, and it should be recognized as such by share in the ministry full-time or part-time, we keep in mind
Jehovahs earthly servants.Romans 13:2. that Jehovah himself assigned us to our ministry.
(2 Corinthians 2:17) Since some may challenge our position,
every dedicated, baptized Christian must be ready to furnish
clear and positive proof that he truly is a minister of the good
Page 70 Unit 8 (a) news. (1 Peter 3:15) His ministry should also be evidenced in
his conduct. As a minister of God, a Christian should
First two bullets advocate and practice clean morals, uphold family unity, be
*** w96 5/1 p. 12 par. 9 God and Caesar *** honest, and show respect for law and order. (Romans 12:17,
18; 1 Thessalonians 5:15) A Christians relationship with God
9
Shortly before his death, Jesus told the special and his divinely assigned ministry are the most important
representative of the Roman emperor in Judea: My kingdom things in his life. He cannot give these up at the behest of
is no part of this world. If my kingdom were part of this Caesar. Clearly, they are to be counted among Gods things.
world, my attendants would have fought that I should not be
delivered up to the Jews. But, as it is, my kingdom is not *** w96 5/1 p. 19 par. 15 Paying Back Caesars Things to
from this source. (John 18:36) Until his Kingdom puts an Caesar ***
end to the rule of political governments, Christs disciples
15
follow his example. They render obedience to those What, though, if the Christian lives in a land where
established authorities but do not interfere in their political exemption is not granted to ministers of religion? Then he
undertakings. (Daniel 2:44; Matthew 4:8-10) Jesus left will have to make a personal decision following his Bible-
guidelines for his disciples, stating: Pay back, therefore, trained conscience. (Galatians 6:5) While taking the authority
Caesars things to Caesar, but Gods things to God. of Caesar into account, he will weigh carefully what he owes
(Matthew 22:21) Earlier, in his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus to Jehovah. (Psalm 36:9; 116:12-14; Acts 17:28) The
had said: If someone under authority impresses you into Christian will remember that the mark of a true Christian is
service for a mile, go with him two miles. (Matthew 5:41) In love for all his fellow believers, even those who live in other
the context of this sermon, Jesus was illustrating the principle lands or those belonging to other tribes. (John 13:34, 35;
of willing submission to legitimate demands, whether in 1 Peter 2:17) Further, he will not forget the Scriptural
human relations or in governmental requirements that are in principles found in texts such as Isaiah 2:2-4; Matthew 26:52;
harmony with Gods law.Luke 6:27-31; John 17:14, 15. Romans 12:18; 14:19; 2 Corinthians 10:4; and Hebrews
12:14.
*** w96 5/1 pp. 12-13 par. 11 God and Caesar ***
*** w96 5/1 p. 20 par. 20 Paying Back Caesars Things to
11
It was in line with this that, a little over 20 years after Caesar ***
Christs death, the apostle Paul told the Christians in Rome:
20
Let every soul be in subjection to the superior authorities. While engaged in such research, Christians would
(Romans 13:1) About ten years later, shortly before his consider a number of Bible principles. Paul said that we must
second imprisonment and his execution in Rome, Paul wrote be obedient to governments and authorities as rulers, . . . be
to Titus: Continue reminding them [Cretan Christians] to be ready for every good work . . . be reasonable, exhibiting all
in subjection and be obedient to governments and authorities mildness toward all men. (Titus 3:1, 2) At the same time,
as rulers, to be ready for every good work, to speak Christians would do well to examine the proposed civilian
injuriously of no one, not to be belligerent, to be reasonable, work. If they accept it, will they be able to maintain Christian
exhibiting all mildness toward all men.Titus 3:1, 2. neutrality? (Micah 4:3, 5; John 17:16) Would it involve them
with some false religion? (Revelation 18:4, 20, 21) Would
*** w96 5/1 p. 15 par. 2 Paying Back Caesars Things to performing it prevent or unreasonably limit them from
Caesar *** fulfilling their Christian responsibilities? (Matthew 24:14;
Hebrews 10:24, 25) On the other hand, would they be able to
2
Of course, the first concern of Jehovahs servants is that continue to make spiritual progress, perhaps even sharing in
they pay back Gods things to God. (Psalm 116:12-14) In the full-time ministry while performing the required service?
doing so, however, they do not forget that Jesus said that they Hebrews 6:11, 12.
must render certain things to Caesar. Their Bible-trained *** w96 5/1 pp. 16-17 pars. 7-8 Paying Back Caesars
consciences require that they consider prayerfully to what Things to Caesar ***
extent they can pay back what Caesar calls for. (Romans
7
13:7) In modern times, many jurists have recognized that Jehovahs Witnesses know that they owe subjection to
governmental power has limits and that people and the superior authorities, the governmental rulers. (Romans
governments everywhere are bound by natural law. 13:1) Hence, when Caesar, the State, makes legitimate
demands, their Bible-trained consciences allow them to
satisfy these demands. For example, true Christians are
*** w96 5/1 p. 16 par. 6 Paying Back Caesars Things to among the most exemplary taxpayers on earth. In Germany
Caesar *** the newspaper Mnchner Merkur said of Jehovahs
6 Witnesses: They are the most honest and the most punctual
The apostle Paul also wrote: I glorify my ministry.
tax payers in the Federal Republic. In Italy the newspaper
(Romans 11:13) Surely we should do likewise. Whether we
99
La Stampa observed: They [Jehovahs Witnesses] are the (Acts 20:20, 21) while I did not hold back from telling you
most loyal citizens anyone could wish for: they do not dodge any of the things that were profitable nor from teaching you
taxes or seek to evade inconvenient laws for their own publicly and from house to house. 21 But I thoroughly bore
profit. Jehovahs servants do this on account of their witness both to Jews and to Greeks about repentance toward
consciences.Romans 13:5, 6. God and faith in our Lord Jesus.
8
Are Caesars things limited to paying taxes? No. Paul (2 Timothy 4:5) You, though, keep your senses in all things,
listed other things, such as fear and honor. In his Critical and endure hardship, do the work of an evangelizer, fully
Exegetical Hand-Book to the Gospel of Matthew, German accomplish your ministry.
scholar Heinrich Meyer wrote: By [Caesars things] . . . we Page 73 Unit 8 (b)
are not to understand merely the civil tax, but everything to
which Caesar was entitled in virtue of his legitimate rule. QUESTION OUTLINE
Share the Good New at Every Opportunity Informal
Historian E. W. Barnes, in his work The Rise of Christianity, Witnessing
observed that a Christian would pay taxes if he owed them
and likewise accept all other State obligations, provided he *** km 8/10 pp. 3-4 You Can Witness Informally! ***
was not called upon to render unto Caesar the things that You Can Witness Informally!
belonged to God.
1
How many in your congregation first came into contact
*** w96 5/1 p. 20 par. 22 Paying Back Caesars Things to
with the truth through informal witnessing? You might be
Caesar ***
surprised by the answer. Informal witnessing involves sharing
22
As Christians we will not cease to render to him who the good news with people whom we meet in our daily
calls for honor, such honor. (Romans 13:7) We will respect activitieswhen traveling, visiting relatives or neighbors, or
good order and seek to be peaceful, law-abiding citizens. shopping, as well as at school, at work, and so forth. In one
(Psalm 34:14) We may even pray concerning kings and all group of over 200 baptized Witnesses, 40 percent were first
those who are in high station when these men are called contacted through informal witnessing! Therefore, this
upon to make decisions that affect our Christian life and method of preaching is very effective.
work. As a result of our paying back Caesars things to 2
Evangelizers in the first century often witnessed
Caesar, we hope that we may go on leading a calm and quiet
informally. For example, while traveling through Samaria,
life with full godly devotion and seriousness. (1 Timothy
Jesus witnessed to a woman who was drawing water at
2:1, 2) Above all, we will continue to preach the good news
Jacobs fountain. (John 4:6-26) Philip started a conversation
of the Kingdom as mankinds only hope, conscientiously
with an Ethiopian court official who was reading from the
paying back Gods things to God.
book of Isaiah by asking: Do you actually know what you
are reading? (Acts 8:26-38) When imprisoned in Philippi,
Page 71 Unit 8 (a)
the apostle Paul witnessed to a jailer. (Acts 16:23-34) Later,
while under house arrest, Paul would kindly receive all those
(2 Peter 2:9) So, then, Jehovah knows how to rescue people
of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous who came in to him, preaching the kingdom of God to them
people to be destroyed on the day of judgment and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Acts 28:30, 31) You too can witness informally, even if you
Page 72 Unit 8 (b) are shy. How?
3
Participate in Various Forms of Our Ministry Getting Started: Many of us find it difficult to start
conversations with strangers. Even with regard to
OPENING DISCUSSION acquaintances, bringing up the truth may seem a bit awkward.
(Mark 13:10) Also, in all the nations, the good news has to We will be motivated to speak up, however, if we meditate on
be preached first. Jehovahs goodness, the spiritual treasures he has given his
servants, and the dire condition of people in the world. (Jonah
(Matthew 24:3) While he was sitting on the Mount of 4:11; Ps. 40:5; Matt. 13:52) In addition, we can ask Jehovah
Olives, the disciples approached him privately, saying: Tell to help us muster up boldness. (1 Thess. 2:2) One Gilead
us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of student said: I have often found that prayer helps when it is
your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things? difficult for me to talk to people. If you are hesitant to speak,
(Matthew 24:14) And this good news of the Kingdom will be say a brief, silent prayer.Neh. 2:4.
preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the 4
nations, and then the end will come. As the name suggests, informal witnessing does not
require that we begin the conversation with a formal
(Isaiah 60:22) The little one will become a thousand And the introduction or a scripture. We may find it helpful to have the
small one a mighty nation. I myself, Jehovah, will speed it up goal of simply starting a conversation without feeling that we
in its own time. must give a witness right away. Many publishers report that
(Matthew 10:7) As you go, preach, saying: The Kingdom of accomplishing this step gives them the confidence they need
the heavens has drawn near. to introduce the good news eventually. If the person does not

100
wish to converse, there is no need to force the issue. Politely I do not have a husband. Jesus said to her: You are right in
conclude the conversation and move on. saying, I do not have a husband. 18 For you have had five
husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband.
5
While shopping at the market, one shy sister first makes This you have said truthfully. 19 The woman said to him:
eye contact and offers a friendly smile. If the person smiles Sir, I see that you are a prophet. 20 Our forefathers
worshipped on this mountain, but you people say that in
back, she makes a brief comment. If the person responds Jerusalem is the place where people must worship. 21 Jesus
favorably, this gives her the confidence to converse further. said to her: Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when
She listens carefully and tries to discern which aspect of the neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship
good news would appeal to the person. Using this approach, the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship
what we know, because salvation begins with the Jews.
she has placed much literature and even started a Bible study. 23
Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the
6 true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth,
Initiating Conversations: What can we say to initiate a for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to
conversation? When Jesus conversed with the woman at the worship him. 24 God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him
well, he started by simply requesting that she give him a must worship with spirit and truth. 25 The woman said to
drink. (John 4:7) So perhaps we can start a conversation with him: I know that Messiah is coming, who is called Christ.
Whenever that one comes, he will declare all things to us
a friendly greeting or question. As you talk you may find an openly. 26 Jesus said to her: I am he, the one speaking to
opportunity to introduce a Scriptural thought and perhaps you.
plant a seed of truth. (Eccl. 11:6) Some have found success
by making an intriguing statement that arouses curiosity and (Luke 6:45) A good man brings good out of the good treasure
prompts an inquiry. For example, while waiting to see the of his heart, but a wicked man brings what is wicked out of
doctor, you may spark a conversation by saying, Ill be glad his wicked treasure; for out of the hearts abundance his
when I wont get sick anymore. mouth speaks.
7
Being observant will also help us to strike up (Psalm 40:5) How many things you have done, O Jehovah
conversations. If we observe a parent with well-behaved my God, Your wonderful works and your thoughts toward us.
children, we might commend the parent and ask, What has None can compare to you; If I were to try to tell and speak of
helped you to be a successful parent? One sister takes note them, They would be too numerous to recount!
of the subjects discussed by others at work and then shares (Matthew 13:52) Then he said to them: That being the case,
specific information based on what her coworkers are every public instructor who is taught about the Kingdom of
interested in. When she learned that a woman at her job was the heavens is like a man, the master of the house, who brings
planning to get married, she gave her an Awake! that out of his treasure store things both new and old.
discussed how to plan a wedding. This led to further Bible (Jonah 4:11) Should I not also feel sorry for Nineveh the
discussions. great city, in which there are more than 120,000 men who do
8 not even know right from wrong, as well as their many
Another way to start conversations is by reading our
animals?
literature where others can see us. One brother opens The
Watchtower or Awake! to an article with an intriguing title
and quietly begins to read it. If he notices someone nearby
Page 74 Unit 8 (b)
looking at his magazine, he asks a question or makes a brief
comment on the article. This often leads to a conversation and
a witness. Simply leaving one of our publications where it is (Luke 19:1-10) He then entered Jericho and was passing
visible may arouse the curiosity of workmates or classmates through. 2 Now a man named Zacchaeus was there; he was a
and prompt them to inquire about it. chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 Well, he was trying to
see who this Jesus was, but he could not see because of the
(John 4:7-26) A woman of Samaria came to draw water. crowd, since he was short. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a
Jesus said to her: Give me a drink. 8 (For his disciples had sycamore tree in order to see him, for he was about to pass
gone off into the city to buy food.) 9 So the Samaritan that way. 5 Now when Jesus got to the place, he looked up
woman said to him: How is it that you, despite being a Jew, and said to him: Zacchaeus, hurry and get down, for today I
ask me for a drink even though I am a Samaritan woman? must stay in your house. 6 With that he hurried down and
(For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) 10 In answer
Jesus said to her: If you had known of the free gift of God joyfully welcomed him as a guest. 7 When they saw this, they
and who it is who says to you, Give me a drink, you would were all muttering: He went as a guest to the house of a man
have asked him, and he would have given you living water. who is a sinner. 8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the
11
She said to him: Sir, you do not even have a bucket for Lord: Look! The half of my belongings, Lord, I am giving to
drawing water, and the well is deep. From what source, then,
do you have this living water? 12 You are not greater than our the poor, and whatever I extorted from anyone, I am restoring
forefather Jacob, who gave us the well and who together with four times over. 9 At this Jesus said to him: Today salvation
his sons and his cattle drank out of it, are you? 13 In answer has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham.
Jesus said to her: Everyone drinking from this water will get 10
For the Son of man came to seek and to save what was
thirsty again. 14 Whoever drinks from the water that I will
give him will never get thirsty at all, but the water that I will lost.
give him will become in him a spring of water bubbling up to (Acts 13:14-16) However, they went on from Perga and came
impart everlasting life. 15 The woman said to him: Sir, give to Antioch in Pisidia. And going into the synagogue on the
me this water, so that I may neither thirst nor keep coming
over to this place to draw water. 16 He said to her: Go, call Sabbath day, they took a seat. 15 After the public reading of
your husband and come to this place. 17 The woman replied: the Law and the Prophets, the presiding officers of the
101
synagogue sent word to them, saying: Men, brothers, if you concerns? Notice that these questions allow people to
have any word of encouragement for the people, tell it. 16 So express their views without putting them on the spot. Since
Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand, he said: Men, circumstances vary, we may need to adjust the topic and tone
Israelites and you others who fear God, listen. of our questions to fit those in our territory.
(Galatians 6:10) So, then, as long as we have the 3
Drawing People Out: If people are willing to share
opportunity, let us work what is good toward all, but their thoughts, patiently listen without needlessly
especially toward those related to us in the faith. interrupting. (Jas. 1:19) Graciously acknowledge their
(Titus 2:1-10) You, however, keep on speaking what is comments. (Col. 4:6) You might simply say: Thats
consistent with wholesome teaching. 2 Let the older men be interesting. Thank you for sharing that with me. Commend
moderate in habits, serious, sound in mind, healthy in faith, in them if you can do so sincerely. Kindly ask additional
love, in endurance. 3 Likewise, let the older women be questions to find out what they think and why they feel as
reverent in behavior, not slanderous, not enslaved to a lot of they do. Seek common ground. When you want to direct their
wine, teachers of what is good, 4 so that they may advise the attention to a scripture, you might say, Have you ever
younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, considered this as a possibility? Avoid being dogmatic or
5
to be sound in mind, chaste, working at home, good, argumentative.2 Tim. 2:24, 25.
subjecting themselves to their own husbands, so that the word 4
of God may not be spoken of abusively. 6 Likewise, keep on How others respond to our questions may depend much
urging the younger men to be sound in mind, 7 showing on how we listen. People can tell if we are listening with our
yourself to be an example of fine works in every way. Teach heart. A traveling overseer observed, When you show patient
what is pure with all seriousness, 8 using wholesome speech willingness to listen to people, it has the amazing power to
that cannot be criticized, so that those who oppose may be put attract and is a wonderful expression of warm personal
to shame, having nothing negative to say about us. 9 Let interest. Listening to others accords them honor, and it may
slaves be in subjection to their owners in all things, trying to move them to listen to the good news that we seek to share.
please them, not talking back, 10 not stealing from them, but Rom. 12:10.
showing complete trustworthiness, so that in every way they
may adorn the teaching of our Savior, God. *** km 2/01 p. 1 pars. 1-4 How to Persuade Others ***
(1 Corinthians 9:19-23) For though I am free from all 1
people, I have made myself the slave to all, so that I may gain The apostle Paul earned the reputation of being a
as many people as possible. 20 To the Jews I became as a Jew persuasive minister. (Acts 19:26) Even King Agrippa told
in order to gain Jews; to those under law I became as under him: In a short time you would persuade me to become a
law, though I myself am not under law, in order to gain those Christian. (Acts 26:28) What made Pauls ministry so
under law. 21 To those without law I became as without law, persuasive? He reasoned logically from the Scriptures,
although I am not without law toward God but under law adapting his arguments to his listeners.Acts 28:23.
toward Christ, in order to gain those without law. 22 To the 2
In imitation of Paul, we too need to be persuasive in our
weak I became weak, in order to gain the weak. I have ministry. How? By using insight when speaking with and
become all things to people of all sorts, so that I might by all listening to others. (Prov. 16:23) Three important steps will
possible means save some. 23 But I do all things for the sake help us to accomplish this.
of the good news, in order to share it with others.
3
(Colossians 4:6) Let your words always be gracious, Listen Carefully: As the other person speaks, listen for
seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should a common ground on which to build. If he raises an
answer each person. objection, try to discern the reasoning behind it. It would help
to know exactly what he believes, why he believes it, and
*** km 1/06 p. 1 Show Personal InterestBy Asking what convinced him of it. (Prov. 18:13) Tactfully draw him
Questions and Listening *** out.
4
Ask Questions: If a person expresses belief in the
1
Most people enjoy expressing their views but dislike Trinity, you might ask: Have you always believed the
being lectured or interrogated. As Christian ministers, Trinity? Follow up with: Did you ever make a thorough
therefore, we need to learn the art of drawing people out with study of what the Bible says on the subject? You might also
questions.Prov. 20:5. ask: If God were part of a Trinity, could we not expect that
2 the Bible would clearly say so? The responses that you
Our questions should invite, not intimidate. When
receive will help you reason with the individual on what the
preaching from house to house, one brother asks, Do you
Scriptures say.
feel that there will ever be a time when people treat one
another with dignity and respect? Depending on the
response, he follows with, What do you think it will take to *** km 6/96 p. 7 Friendly Conversations Can Reach the
accomplish this? or Why do you feel that way? When Heart ***
witnessing informally and in public places, another brother Friendly Conversations Can Reach the Heart
asks those who have children, What do you enjoy most
about being a parent? Then he asks, What are your greatest

102
1
Conversation can be defined as an oral exchange of Page 75 Unit 8 (b)
ideas. Starting friendly conversations on a topic that
concerns others may capture their interest and can aid us in *** km 8/10 pp. 3-6 You Can Witness Informally! ***
reaching their hearts with the Kingdom message. Experience You Can Witness Informally!
has shown that it is far more effective to engage people in a
friendly and relaxed conversation than to give them a sermon. 1
How many in your congregation first came into contact
2
How to Start a Friendly Conversation: Our being with the truth through informal witnessing? You might be
able to converse with others does not mean that we have to surprised by the answer. Informal witnessing involves sharing
present some striking lineup of thoughts and scriptures. It the good news with people whom we meet in our daily
simply involves getting the other party to talk with us. For activitieswhen traveling, visiting relatives or neighbors, or
example, when we have a friendly conversation with our shopping, as well as at school, at work, and so forth. In one
next-door neighbor, it is not rigid but relaxed. We are not group of over 200 baptized Witnesses, 40 percent were first
thinking about our next words but are responding naturally to contacted through informal witnessing! Therefore, this
the ideas he expresses. Showing genuine interest in what he method of preaching is very effective.
says may encourage him to continue conversing with us. The 2
Evangelizers in the first century often witnessed
same should be true when witnessing to others. informally. For example, while traveling through Samaria,
3
Topics such as crime, the problems of youth, local Jesus witnessed to a woman who was drawing water at
issues, world conditions, or even the weather can be used to Jacobs fountain. (John 4:6-26) Philip started a conversation
start friendly conversations. Subjects that directly affect the with an Ethiopian court official who was reading from the
lives of people are very effective in arousing their interest. book of Isaiah by asking: Do you actually know what you
Once a conversation has been started, we can gently turn it are reading? (Acts 8:26-38) When imprisoned in Philippi,
toward the Kingdom message. the apostle Paul witnessed to a jailer. (Acts 16:23-34) Later,
while under house arrest, Paul would kindly receive all those
4
Having a relaxed conversation does not mean that who came in to him, preaching the kingdom of God to them
advance preparation is not necessary. It is. However, there is and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ.
no need to formulate a rigid outline or to memorize a sermon, (Acts 28:30, 31) You too can witness informally, even if you
which would result in a conversation that is not flexible or are shy. How?
adaptable to the circumstances at hand. (Compare 3
1 Corinthians 9:20-23.) An excellent way of preparing is to Getting Started: Many of us find it difficult to start
select one or two Scriptural themes, with a view to building conversations with strangers. Even with regard to
conversations around them. Reviewing subjects found in the acquaintances, bringing up the truth may seem a bit awkward.
Reasoning book will prove helpful for this. We will be motivated to speak up, however, if we meditate on
Jehovahs goodness, the spiritual treasures he has given his
5
Essential Qualities for a Friendly Conversation: servants, and the dire condition of people in the world. (Jonah
When we converse with others, we should be warm and 4:11; Ps. 40:5; Matt. 13:52) In addition, we can ask Jehovah
sincere. A smile and a cheerful appearance help to reflect to help us muster up boldness. (1 Thess. 2:2) One Gilead
these qualities. We have the best message in the world; it is student said: I have often found that prayer helps when it is
most appealing to honesthearted ones. If they feel that our difficult for me to talk to people. If you are hesitant to speak,
interest in them is motivated by a sincere desire to share some say a brief, silent prayer.Neh. 2:4.
good news with them, then they may be moved to listen. 4
2 Cor. 2:17. As the name suggests, informal witnessing does not
require that we begin the conversation with a formal
6
Engaging in conversation ought to be a pleasant introduction or a scripture. We may find it helpful to have the
experience. Therefore, we should be kind and tactful in goal of simply starting a conversation without feeling that we
presenting the Kingdom message. (Gal. 5:22; Col. 4:6) Strive must give a witness right away. Many publishers report that
to leave the other party with a favorable impression. This accomplishing this step gives them the confidence they need
way, even if we are not successful initially in reaching his to introduce the good news eventually. If the person does not
heart, he may be more receptive the next time a Witness wish to converse, there is no need to force the issue. Politely
converses with him. conclude the conversation and move on.
7
Starting a friendly conversation is not the result of 5
While shopping at the market, one shy sister first makes
mastering a complex sermon. It is simply a matter of arousing eye contact and offers a friendly smile. If the person smiles
interest in a subject that is of concern to a person. Once we back, she makes a brief comment. If the person responds
have prepared in advance, we will then be ready to engage favorably, this gives her the confidence to converse further.
people in friendly conversations. Let us endeavor to reach the She listens carefully and tries to discern which aspect of the
hearts of those whom we meet by sharing with them the best good news would appeal to the person. Using this approach,
news to be found, that of everlasting Kingdom blessings. she has placed much literature and even started a Bible study.
2 Pet. 3:13. 6
Initiating Conversations: What can we say to initiate a
conversation? When Jesus conversed with the woman at the
well, he started by simply requesting that she give him a
103
12
drink. (John 4:7) So perhaps we can start a conversation with The time we spend doing informal witnessing should
a friendly greeting or question. As you talk you may find an be reported. Therefore, be sure to keep a record of it, even if
opportunity to introduce a Scriptural thought and perhaps it is only a few minutes a day. Consider this: If every
plant a seed of truth. (Eccl. 11:6) Some have found success publisher witnessed informally for five minutes each day, that
by making an intriguing statement that arouses curiosity and would add up to more than 17 million hours each month!
prompts an inquiry. For example, while waiting to see the 13
doctor, you may spark a conversation by saying, Ill be glad We have the noblest reasons to witness informally
when I wont get sick anymore. love for God and neighbor. (Matt. 22:37-39) Hearts filled
with appreciation for Jehovahs qualities and purposes impel
7
Being observant will also help us to strike up us to speak about the glory of the splendor of his kingship.
conversations. If we observe a parent with well-behaved (Ps. 145:7, 10-12) Genuine concern for our neighbors moves
children, we might commend the parent and ask, What has us to take advantage of every appropriate opportunity to share
helped you to be a successful parent? One sister takes note the good news while there is still time. (Rom. 10:13, 14) With
of the subjects discussed by others at work and then shares a little forethought and preparation, all of us can witness
specific information based on what her coworkers are informally and perhaps experience the joy of introducing the
interested in. When she learned that a woman at her job was truth to someone of honest heart.
planning to get married, she gave her an Awake! that
discussed how to plan a wedding. This led to further Bible [Study Questions]
discussions. 1. (a) What is informal witnessing? (b) How many present at
8
Another way to start conversations is by reading our this meeting first came into contact with the truth
literature where others can see us. One brother opens The through informal witnessing?
Watchtower or Awake! to an article with an intriguing title 2. What examples of informal witnessing do we find in the
and quietly begins to read it. If he notices someone nearby Scriptures?
looking at his magazine, he asks a question or makes a brief
comment on the article. This often leads to a conversation and 3. What can help us to overcome shyness?
a witness. Simply leaving one of our publications where it is
4. What goal might we initially set for ourselves, and why?
visible may arouse the curiosity of workmates or classmates
and prompt them to inquire about it. 5. What helps one shy sister to witness informally?
9
Creating Opportunities: In view of the urgency of the 6. How might we start a conversation in an informal setting?
preaching work, we should not view informal witnessing as
something that can be left merely to chance. Rather, we 7. How will being observant help us to witness informally?
should seek to create opportunities to give a witness as we go 8. How can we use our literature to start conversations?
about our daily activities. Think ahead about the people you
are likely to meet, and consider how you might start a 9, 10. (a) How can we create opportunities to witness
friendly conversation. Keep a Bible handy as well as informally? (b) How have you been able to do this?
literature that you can share with those who show interest.
1 Pet. 3:15. 11. How may we follow up the interest we find when
witnessing informally?
10
By being resourceful, many publishers have found
ways to create opportunities to witness informally. A sister 12. (a) Why keep track of and report the time we spend
who lives in a high-security apartment building uses the witnessing informally? (b) What results have been
facilitys recreation area to put together jigsaw puzzles of obtained through informal witnessing? (See the box
beautiful nature scenes. When people stop and comment on Informal Witnessing Gets Results!)
the beauty of the scene, she uses that opportunity to start a 13. What should motivate us to witness informally?
conversation and tell them about the Bibles promise of a
new heaven and a new earth. (Rev. 21:1-4) Can you think of [Blurb on page 4]
ways that you could create opportunities to witness You may find it helpful to have the goal of simply meeting
informally? people and starting conversations
11
Following Up Interest: If you find a listening ear, try [Blurb on page 5]
to follow up the interest. If appropriate, you might say to the By being resourceful, many publishers have found ways to
person: I have thoroughly enjoyed talking with you. Where create opportunities to witness informally
can I reach you so that we can talk again? Some publishers
[Box on page 5]
just hand their address and phone number to the person and
Suggestions for Starting Conversations
say: I enjoyed our conversation. If you would like to know
more about what we discussed, here is how you can contact Pray for help to get started
me. If you cannot personally follow up the interest, arrange
for the appropriate congregation to do so by promptly Choose those who seem friendly and unhurried
submitting a Please Follow Up (S-43) form to your Establish eye contact, smile, and comment on something of
congregation secretary. mutual interest
104
Be a good listener She said a brief prayer and approached them. After
introducing herself, she told them about a government
[Box on page 6] that will solve mankinds problems, Gods Kingdom, and
Informal Witnessing Gets Results! offered them a brochure that she had with her. Just then
While at a garage waiting for his car to be repaired, a the manager approached. The sister thought he was going
brother witnessed to those around him and gave them to ask her to leave. Instead, he told her that he had been
handbills inviting them to the public talk. At a convention listening and would like a brochure too. An employee
a year later, a brother he did not recognize greeted him who was also listening approached with tears rolling
warmly. It was one of the men to whom he had given a down her face. She was a former Bible student who
handbill at the garage the year before! The man had gone wanted to resume her study.
to hear the public talk and had turned in his name for a
Bible study. Both he and his wife had been baptized.
*** km 12/95 pp. 3-4 pars. 1-19 Letting Our Light Shine
A sister who learned the truth through informal witnessing Continuously ***
considers her special territory to be the people she meets 1
through her three children. Her territory includes What is light? The dictionary defines it as something
neighbors and parents she meets at school and at that makes vision possible. But really, despite his advanced
meetings for parents. Whenever she introduces herself, technology, man still does not fully know the answer to the
she makes a simple but heartfelt statement that the Bible question Jehovah raised as recorded at Job 38:24. Can we get
is a valuable aid to her in rearing her children, and then along without light? Without light we could not exist. Light is
she moves on to some other topic. But having broken the essential for physical sight, and the Bible tells us that in a
ice, she finds it much easier to bring the Bible into spiritual sense, God is light. (1 John 1:5) We are totally
subsequent discussions. By using this method, she has dependent upon the One who gives us light.Ps. 118:27.
helped 12 persons to baptism. 2
This is true in a physical sense but even more so in a
When a sister was visited by an insurance salesman, she spiritual way. False religion has misguided the masses of
took the opportunity to give a witness. She asked him if people, leaving them in spiritual darkness, groping for the
he would like to be guaranteed good health, happiness, wall just like blind men. (Isa. 59:9, 10) Prompted by his
and everlasting life. He said yes and asked her which unsurpassing love and compassion, Jehovah sends out his
insurance policy she was talking about. She showed him light and truth. (Ps. 43:3) Literally millions of appreciative
the Bibles promises and offered one of our publications, ones have responded, coming out of darkness into his
which he read in one evening. A Bible study was wonderful light.1 Pet. 2:9.
arranged. He began attending meetings and was later 3
Jesus Christ plays a vital role in bringing this light to
baptized. the world. He said: I have come as a light into the world, in
While traveling by plane, a sister began talking with the order that everyone putting faith in me may not remain in the
woman seated beside her and was able to give a witness. darkness. (John 12:46) All his time, energy, and resources
At the conclusion of the flight, the sister gave the woman were directed toward making the light of truth known. He
her address and phone number and encouraged the traveled the length and breadth of his homeland, preaching
woman to ask for a Bible study the next time that and teaching in virtually every city and village. He endured
Jehovahs Witnesses visited. The very next day, two relentless persecution from every side, but he remained
Witnesses called at the womans door. The woman steadfast in his commission to spread the light of truth.
started studying the Bible, made rapid progress, got 4
Jesus concentrated on selecting, training, and
baptized, and was soon conducting three Bible studies of organizing disciples, with a specific goal in mind. At
her own. Matthew 5:14-16 we read his instructions to them: You are
A 100-year-old blind brother who lives in a nursing home the light of the world. . . . Let your light shine before men,
often says, We need the Kingdom. This has led to that they may see your fine works and give glory to your
questions from nurses and patients that enable him to Father who is in the heavens. Just like Jesus, they were to be
explain what the Kingdom is. One of the women who illuminators in the world, disseminating the light of truth
works there asked him what he will do in the Paradise. far and wide. (Phil. 2:15) They gladly accepted that
He replied, I will see and walk again and burn my responsibility, viewing it as their primary purpose in life. A
wheelchair. Since he is blind, he asks her to read the short time later, Paul was able to say that the good news was
magazines to him. When the brothers daughter visited, preached in all creation that is under heaven. (Col. 1:23) The
the worker asked the daughter for permission to take the entire Christian congregation was united in accomplishing
magazines home. A nurse told the daughter, Our new that great work.
theme in the nursing home is: We need the Kingdom. 5
We today should be thankful that we have come to be
A sister waiting in line at a restaurant overheard a group of among those who have put off the works belonging to
elderly men sitting nearby who were discussing political darkness. (Rom. 13:12, 13) We can show our appreciation
issues. One man stated that the government cannot solve by imitating the example set by Jesus and the faithful
our problems. The sister told herself, This is my chance. Christians in the past. The need for others to hear the truth is
105
more urgent and critical now than at any time in human for anxiety. Others are basically just like us; they have the
history. No other activity can begin to compare with this same needs, feel the same concerns, and want the same things
work in its urgency and far-reaching benefits. for themselves and their families. Most will respond in a
6
kindly manner to a cheerful smile or a friendly greeting. To
How Can We Shine as Illuminators? The primary get started, you may have to muster up boldness. (1 Thess.
way to let our light shine is to share in the Kingdom- 2:2) Once you get going, however, you may be surprised and
preaching work. Every congregation has regular, organized delighted with the results.
arrangements for preaching in its assigned territory. Huge
10
quantities of literature are made available in great variety and We Are Blessed When We Let Our Light Shine:
in many languages. Extensive education is provided through Here are some examples of refreshing experiences resulting
the meetings, and assistance in training others personally is from informal witnessing: A 55-year-old lady was attempting
offered by those who are experienced. Opportunities to to cross the street. Just as a car was about to hit her, a sister
participate are open to men, women, older ones, and even grabbed her arm and pulled her to safety, saying: Please take
children. Every individual in the congregation is invited to care. We are living in perilous times! She then explained
participate at whatever level his abilities and circumstances why the times are so dangerous. The lady asked, Are you
permit. All the functions of the congregation are focused on one of Jehovahs Witnesses? Having obtained one of our
preaching, with provisions to help every member share in books from her sister, the lady wanted to meet one of
some way. Regular, close association with the congregation is Jehovahs Witnesses, and this encounter made it possible.
the best way to ensure that our light keeps shining. 11
A sister started a conversation with a woman in a
7
We can shine in ways that may not involve a verbal waiting room at the doctors office. The woman listened
witness. We can attract the attention of others simply by our attentively and then said: For some time, Jehovahs
conduct. That is what Peter had in mind when he urged: Witnesses have been crossing my path; but if sometime in the
Maintain your conduct fine among the nations, that . . . they future I actually become one of Jehovahs Witnesses myself,
may as a result of your fine works of which they are it will be because of what you just told me. Listening to you
eyewitnesses glorify God. (1 Pet. 2:12) Many judge a work is like starting to see light in a dark place.
or an organization by the conduct of those associated with it. 12
When observers note people who are morally clean, honest, An act of kindness can be a stepping-stone to helping
peaceable, and law-abiding, they view such people as others learn the truth. While walking home from field service,
different and conclude that they live by standards that are on two sisters noticed an elderly woman who appeared to be ill
a much higher level than those followed by the majority. So a as she got off the bus. They stopped and asked the lady if she
husband is letting his light shine when he honors and needed help. She was so surprised that two complete
cherishes his wife in a loving manner; the wife does the same strangers would show interest in her that she insisted on
by respecting her husbands headship. Children stand out as knowing what it was that sparked such a kind gesture. This
different when they obey their parents and avoid sexual opened the door for a witness. The lady readily gave her
immorality and the use of drugs. An employee who is address and warmly invited them to visit her. A study was
conscientious about his work, honest, and considerate of started. Soon the lady began attending meetings and is now
others is highly valued. By demonstrating these Christian sharing the truth with others.
qualities, we are letting our light shine, recommending our 13
An elderly sister takes advantage of early-morning
way of life to others. witnessing on the local beach. She meets housemaids, baby-
8
Preaching is talking to others about what we have sitters, bank clerks, and others who take their morning stroll
learned from Gods Word. That is done from the public on the boardwalk. She conducts Bible studies, sitting on the
platform or at the doors, but it is by no means limited to such benches. Several people have learned the truth from her and
occasions. Our daily activities put us in contact with scores of are now Jehovahs Witnesses.
people. How many times a day do you speak to your next- 14
At her secular job, a sister heard a fellow worker talk
door neighbors? How often does someone knock at your about a political party that she believed could solve the
door? How many different people do you rub shoulders with worlds problems. The sister spoke up, relating promises
when you do your shopping, ride the bus, or work at your about what Gods Kingdom will do. This discussion at work
secular job? If you are a young person in school, can you led to a regular Bible study in the home, and eventually the
count the number of individuals you speak to each day? The lady and her husband became Witnesses.
opportunities to speak to others are virtually unlimited. All
15
you need to do is to get a few Scriptural thoughts in mind, Never Forget You Are a Witness! When Jesus
keep a Bible and some tracts handy, and take the initiative to described his disciples as the light of the world, he
speak up when you get the chance. reasoned that they should be helping others to benefit from
9
the spiritual enlightenment of Gods Word. If we apply Jesus
Even though informal witnessing is quite simple, some counsel, how will we view our ministry?
feel reluctant to try it. They may be reticent, insisting that
16
they are too shy or too nervous to approach strangers. They When searching for employment, some people choose
may feel apprehensive about drawing attention to themselves a part-time job. They put limits on how much time and effort
or getting a harsh response. Those who are experienced in they will put into it because they prefer to use most of their
informal witnessing can tell you that there is rarely any cause time pursuing activities they find more rewarding. Are we
106
taking a similar view of our ministry? Even though we might who came in to him, preaching the kingdom of God to them
feel obligated and even be willing to set aside some time for and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with
the ministry, should our primary interests be elsewhere? the greatest freeness of speech.Acts 28:16-31.
17 2
Realizing that there is no such thing as a part-time We too can be diligent in bearing thorough witness at
Christian, we made our dedication, disowning ourselves and all times. That includes witnessing to people we meet in our
agreeing to follow Jesus continually. (Matt. 16:24) Our travels to and from the Give God Glory District
desire is to continue being whole-souled, taking advantage Convention and while in the host city.Acts 28:23; Ps.
of every opportunity to let our light shine in order to reach 145:10-13.
people wherever they are. (Col. 3:23, 24) We must resist 3
worldly attitudes, maintain our zeal as in the beginning, and Incidental or Informal Witnessing? Is there a
make sure that our light continues to shine forth brilliantly. difference? Yes. Something that is incidental occurs merely
Some may have allowed their zeal to cool off and their light by chance or without intention, as if it was not planned or is
to become only a faint glow, hardly visible a short distance of little importance. That certainly does not describe our
away. Such a one may need help to recover lost zeal for the ministry. As was true of Paul, giving God glory by our
ministry. witnessing is important to us, and it should be our intention to
give a witness wherever appropriate in the course of our
18
Some may tend to hold back because our message is travels this summer. However, the manner in which we
unpopular to many. Paul said that the message about the approach others can rightly be described as informalthat is,
Christ was foolishness to those who are perishing. (1 Cor. relaxed, friendly, and unofficial. This approach can produce
1:18) No matter what others said, however, he forcefully good results.
declared: I am not ashamed of the good news. (Rom. 1:16) 4
One who is ashamed feels inferior or unworthy. How could Prepare to Give a Witness: Paul had to make
we possibly feel ashamed when we speak about the Supreme opportunities to witness while under house arrest in Rome.
Sovereign of the universe and the marvelous provisions he From his place of lodging, he took the initiative to invite the
has made for our eternal happiness? It is unthinkable that we local Jewish leaders to his house. (Acts 28:17) Even though
would feel inferior or unworthy when we speak these truths there was a Christian congregation in Rome, Paul learned that
to others. Instead, we should feel compelled to do our utmost, the Jewish community in that city had little firsthand
displaying our conviction that we have nothing to be information about the Christian faith. (Acts 28:22; Rom. 1:7)
ashamed of.2 Tim. 2:15. He did not hold back from bearing thorough witness about
Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God.
19
The light of truth that is now shining in lands all 5
around the earth warmly offers the hope of everlasting life in Think of all the people you may contact in your travels
a paradise new world. Let us show that we have taken to who have only a passing knowledge of Jehovahs Witnesses.
heart the admonition to let our light shine continuously! If we They may not even know that we offer free home Bible
do, we will have cause to rejoice just like the disciples who studies. Be alert to opportunities to witness to those you meet
every day continued without letup teaching and declaring while traveling, making rest stops, refueling, shopping,
the good news about the Christ, Jesus.Acts 5:42. staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, using public
transportation, and so on. Determine in advance what you
might say to initiate a conversation and to give a brief
*** km 6/96 p. 7 par. 6 Friendly Conversations Can witness. Perhaps in the days ahead you can practice by
Reach the Heart *** witnessing informally to your neighbors, relatives,
6
workmates, and other acquaintances.
Engaging in conversation ought to be a pleasant
6
experience. Therefore, we should be kind and tactful in You will need a supply of publications to use when
presenting the Kingdom message. (Gal. 5:22; Col. 4:6) Strive witnessing informally. Which ones? You might use the tract
to leave the other party with a favorable impression. This Would You Like to Know More About the Bible? Point to the
way, even if we are not successful initially in reaching his first five paragraphs, where various reasons are given for
heart, he may be more receptive the next time a Witness reading the Bible. Show the coupon on the back for
converses with him. requesting a free home Bible study. When you find a
responsive person, offer the Require brochure. In anticipation
of meeting people who speak another language, take along
Page 76 Unit 8 (b) the booklet Good News for All Nations. Page 2 explains how
to use it to give a witness. If traveling by car, you may be
*** km 6/03 pp. 3-4 Be Diligent in Bearing Thorough able to take along a few other basic publications for those
Witness *** who show real interest in the Kingdom message.
Be Diligent in Bearing Thorough Witness
7
Consider Your Appearance and Conduct: We must
1
Like Jesus and many other faithful servants of old, the make sure that our conduct as well as our dress and grooming
apostle Paul was a zealous preacher of the good news, will not give others a wrong impression or cause them to
bearing thorough witness regardless of the setting. Even speak against Jehovahs organization. (Acts 28:22) This
while under house arrest, he would kindly receive all those applies not only while attending the convention but also

107
while traveling and during leisure time. The August 1, 2002, Then, when they heard someone speaking in a foreign
Watchtower, page 18, paragraph 14, cautioned: Our language who was selling items on the sidewalk or who was
appearance should not be showy, bizarre, provocative, sitting near them in the park or in a restaurant, they would
revealing, or faddish. In addition, we should dress in a offer him a tract in his native tongue
manner that reflects reverence for God. That gives food for
thought, does it not? It is not simply a matter of dressing *** km 12/11 p. 1 par. 3 We Are Never Off Duty ***
appropriately when attending congregation meetings [or 3
convention sessions] and then throwing all caution to the Not Alternative Witnessing: In the past we
wind at other times. Our personal appearance should always sometimes used the word alternative to refer to preaching
reflect a reverent, honorable attitude because we are on the street and in parking lots, parks, places of business,
Christians and ministers 24 hours a day.1 Tim. 2:9, 10. and so forth. However, alternative could seem to suggest
that such efforts are out of the ordinary, unconventional, or
8
We should dress modestly and with dignity. If our optional. The apostle Paul said that he preached publicly
appearance and conduct always reflect our belief in God, we and from house to house. (Acts 20:20) So public witnessing
will never feel obligated to hold back from witnessing would be a more appropriate term than alternative
informally because our personal appearance leaves something witnessing. It is true that the house-to-house ministry
to be desired.1 Pet. 3:15. continues to be our primary and most effective way of
9
reaching people with the Kingdom message. However, first-
Informal Witnessing Is Fruitful: During the two years century evangelizers focused on people, not houses. They
that Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he saw good took advantage of every opportunity to talk about the truth
results from his witnessing efforts. Luke reported that some publicly, informally, and from house to house. May we have
began to believe the things said. (Acts 28:24) Paul himself the same mind-set in order to accomplish our ministry fully.
evaluated the effectiveness of his bearing thorough witness 2 Tim. 4:5.
when he wrote: My affairs have turned out for the (Acts 16:13) On the Sabbath day we went outside the gate
advancement of the good news rather than otherwise, so that beside a river, where we thought there was a place of prayer,
my bonds have become public knowledge in association with and we sat down and began speaking to the women who had
Christ among all the Praetorian Guard and all the rest; and assembled.
most of the brothers in the Lord, feeling confidence by reason
of my prison bonds, are showing all the more courage to (Acts 17:17) So he began to reason in the synagogue with the
speak the word of God fearlessly.Phil. 1:12-14. Jews and the other people who worshipped God and every
day in the marketplace with those who happened to be on
10
Last summer, after spending the day at the district hand.
convention, a couple had a fruitful experience witnessing (Matthew 7:12) All things, therefore, that you want men to
informally to a waitress who asked them about their do to you, you also must do to them. This, in fact, is what the
convention badge cards. They told her about the convention Law and the Prophets mean.
and also about the hope the Bible holds out for the future of
(Hebrews 13:16) Moreover, do not forget to do good and to
mankind. They gave her the tract Would You Like to Know
share what you have with others, for God is well-pleased with
More About the Bible? and explained the free home Bible
such sacrifices.
study arrangement. The woman said that she wanted someone
to visit her, filled in her name and address on the back of the
tract, and asked the couple to make the arrangements. What
Page 77
success might you enjoy this year by being diligent in Unit 8 (b)
bearing thorough witness?
11
Thoroughly Advance the Good News: Imagine how *** km 7/13 pp. 4-6 New Initiatives for Public Witnessing
happy Paul was when he heard that fellow Christians were ***
imitating his zealous example! May we do all we can to New Initiatives for Public Witnessing
advance the good news by witnessing informally about our
Bible-based beliefs as we also benefit from this summers 1
First-century Christians did more than preach from
district convention house to house. They also preached publicly. (Acts 20:20) For
example, they went to the temple, where they knew many
*** km 10/12 p. 3 par. 7 Use Tracts to Spread the Good people could be found. (Acts 5:42) When in Athens, the
News *** apostle Paul preached every day to those on hand in the
7 marketplace. (Acts 17:17) Today, our primary way of
Informal Witnessing: It is easy to witness informally
spreading the good news continues to be the house-to-house
with tracts. One brother puts a few in his pocket whenever he
ministry. However, we also go to parking lots, businesses,
leaves home. When he meets someone, such as a store clerk,
parks, busy thoroughfares, and other places in order to preach
he simply offers to give him something to read and hands him
to people wherever they can be found. While every publisher
a tract. When one couple went to New York City to do some
is encouraged to engage in public witnessing where possible,
sightseeing, they realized that they would come in contact
many will have the opportunity to participate in two exciting
with people from various countries. So they took along the
new initiatives for public witnessing.
Nations booklet and several tracts in different languages.
108
2 7
Special Metropolitan Public Witnessing: As reported The elders will consider whether the congregations
in the 2013 Yearbook on pages 16 and 17, a trial initiative for territory has areas of high pedestrian traffic and determine if
public witnessing began in New York City in it would be practical to organize public witnessing. Possible
November 2011. Tables and carts with attractive displays and locations for a table or mobile display include transportation
literature in several languages were strategically placed in hubs, public squares, parks, busy streets, shopping malls,
areas of the city with high pedestrian traffic. Each day college campuses, airports, and locations of annual events.
thousands of people walked by, including many who live in There is an advantage in having a table set up in the same
secured apartment buildings and persons who are often away location, on the same days, and at the same times. It has been
from home. The response was overwhelming. In just one found that tables set up at shopping malls are more effective
recent month, 3,797 magazines and 7,986 books were placed. than those outside a single large store where individuals are
Many passersby requested a Bible study. Since the emphasis usually focused on their reason for visiting that specific store.
was on starting Bible studies, any addresses left by interested Some locations, such as busy sidewalks, may be more
ones were immediately forwarded to the appropriate conducive to a smaller mobile literature display. Elders can
congregation to follow up on the interest. download from our Web site special files for making displays
3
of the Watchtower and Awake! magazines and the Bible
In view of the initiatives success, it is now being Teach book. These files have been prepared specifically for
expanded worldwide to other densely populated metropolitan use in this form of public witnessing. Those who participate
areas. The local branch office will identify which cities would will carry out the work in much the same way as those
benefit. Usually, these are cities with transportation hubs or a engaged in special metropolitan public witnessing and should
large concentration of office or apartment buildings that follow the direction of the service overseer closely. If they
results in high pedestrian traffic. Thereafter, the branch office obtain an address from an interested person who does not live
will initiate correspondence to the congregations that will in their territory, they should promptly fill out a Please
participate and provide additional instructions. Regular and Follow Up (S-43) form and give it to the secretary.
special pioneers are generally used, although in some places
8
auxiliary pioneers also have a share in the work. Public Witnessing in Your Personal Ministry: Some
4
congregations may not have a location in their territory that
How the Witnessing Is Done: Those involved in has sufficient pedestrian traffic to justify setting up a table or
special metropolitan public witnessing usually wait for making use of a mobile literature display. However, even in
someone to come to the table or mobile display. When those congregations, publishers are encouraged to consider
someone approaches, he is invited to take any literature that including public witnessing in their personal ministry. Is there
interests him. The pioneers gladly answer from the Scriptures a shopping area, a strip mall, or a busy store in your territory?
any questions he may have. If he takes literature, the pioneers Is there a park or a place where people gather? Are there
do not mention the donation arrangement. But if he inquires public events that are periodically held in the territory? If so,
about how our work is funded, they may explain that you may still be able to enjoy public witnessing.
donations can be sent to the address listed in the literature.
9
When possible, they ask: Would you like someone to visit It is Jehovahs will that all sorts of men should be
your home? or Are you aware that a free Bible study comes saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth. (1 Tim.
with that publication? 2:4) Therefore, we are trying to reach as many people as
5
possible with the Kingdom message before the end comes.
Sharing in this initiative has been very rewarding. One (Matt. 24:14) In many places it is a challenge to find people
couple wrote: Standing at the table and seeing thousands of at home. Yet, we may be able to speak to them when they are
people go by each day has impressed upon our hearts the vast away from home in a public setting. Public witnessing may
work that is being done to reach people all around the world. be the only way that some people will get an opportunity to
Seeing these masses of people and thinking about how hear the good news. Therefore, may we fully accomplish our
Jehovah truly cares for each person has strengthened our ministry by preaching to people wherever they may be found.
resolve to continue putting the preaching work at the center 2 Tim. 4:
of our lives. We imagine Jehovah scanning the hearts of all *** km 7/97 p. 1 Witness Wherever There Are People ***
those who pass by the table, searching for those who are Witness Wherever There Are People
worthy. We have rarely felt so close to our angelic
coworkers. 1
Recognizing the role Gods spirit played in his ministry,
6
Public Witnessing That Is Organized Locally: In the apostle Paul stated: God kept making it grow. He also
addition to special metropolitan public witnessing, another acknowledged: We are Gods fellow workers. (1 Cor. 3:5-
new initiative is being organized by many bodies of elders in 9) This is a marvelous privilege. How can we demonstrate
their local territory. With this initiative, publishers use a table publicly that we appreciate being fellow workers with God?
or a mobile display at a busy location within the By declaring the good news to all whom we meet in the
congregations territory boundary. This is different from house-to-house work and everywhere else.
special metropolitan public witnessing, which uses 2
participants from many congregations to preach in the same We are commanded to make disciples of people.
high-traffic areas in cities chosen by the branch office.See (Matt. 28:19) If we contact only a few people when we share
the box Good Cooperation Needed. in the ministry, we may tire quickly and feel we have
accomplished little. On the other hand, we enjoy our ministry
109
most when we are able to find many people and converse next to him. It worked. The girl asked him what he was
with them. This can be rather challenging, since it requires reading, and the youth answered that he was reading about
some initiative on our part to go wherever the people are so the solution to problems young people have to face. He added
that we can make contact with them. that he had greatly benefited from the article and that it could
3
help her too. She gladly accepted the magazines. Their
Practical Examples: We can witness to people at conversation was overheard by two other youths who also
markets, parks, rest stops, and transportation terminals. When asked for copies of the magazines. At this, the bus driver
you ride public transportation, are you prepared to give a pulled over to the side of the road and asked why there was
witness along the way? Two Witnesses who were riding in a so much interest in these magazines. When he found out, he
crowded bus to their meeting for service carried on a also accepted copies. Of course, none of this would have been
conversation about the picture of Paradise in the Knowledge possible if the young publisher had not had an ample supply
book, discussing Gods promises for the future. As they had of magazines to share with everyone who showed interest!
hoped would happen, a young man standing close by listened
in and was impressed by what he heard. Before leaving the
bus, he accepted a book and requested that someone visit his *** km 7/13 pp. 4-6 New Initiatives for Public Witnessing
home. ***
4
New Initiatives for Public Witnessing
Many publishers have found joy in doing informal
witnessing. One sister went to the local shopping center on an 1
afternoon and approached people who had finished their First-century Christians did more than preach from
shopping but who did not appear to be in a hurry. She placed house to house. They also preached publicly. (Acts 20:20) For
all the literature she had in her bag. One man who was example, they went to the temple, where they knew many
waiting in his car was happy to receive the magazines from people could be found. (Acts 5:42) When in Athens, the
her. He had attended meetings before, and their conversation apostle Paul preached every day to those on hand in the
rekindled his interest. marketplace. (Acts 17:17) Today, our primary way of
spreading the good news continues to be the house-to-house
5
It is a privilege to exalt Jehovahs name. By ministry. However, we also go to parking lots, businesses,
demonstrating our zeal for the preaching work, we show that parks, busy thoroughfares, and other places in order to preach
we have not missed the purpose of Gods undeserved to people wherever they can be found. While every publisher
kindness toward us. Because now is the especially is encouraged to engage in public witnessing where possible,
acceptable time to help others, let us go wherever there are many will have the opportunity to participate in two exciting
people and witness to them about Jehovahs day of new initiatives for public witnessing.
salvation.2 Cor. 6:1, 2. 2
*** km 9/96 p. 4 pars. 14-15 Preach the Good News Special Metropolitan Public Witnessing: As reported
Everywhere *** in the 2013 Yearbook on pages 16 and 17, a trial initiative for
public witnessing began in New York City in
14
Witnessing on Public Transportation: One morning a November 2011. Tables and carts with attractive displays and
number of pioneers decided to witness to people who were literature in several languages were strategically placed in
waiting for the bus near a local college. While they had some areas of the city with high pedestrian traffic. Each day
pleasant conversations, there was a problem. By the time the thousands of people walked by, including many who live in
discussion got well under way, the bus would come, bringing secured apartment buildings and persons who are often away
the conversation to an abrupt halt. The pioneers solved the from home. The response was overwhelming. In just one
problem by boarding the bus and continuing to witness to the recent month, 3,797 magazines and 7,986 books were placed.
passengers as they traveled across town. At the end of the Many passersby requested a Bible study. Since the emphasis
line, the pioneers would make the return bus trip, witnessing was on starting Bible studies, any addresses left by interested
as they went. After several trips back and forth, they totaled ones were immediately forwarded to the appropriate
up the results of their efforts: Over 200 magazines were congregation to follow up on the interest.
placed and six Bible studies were started. Some passengers 3
willingly gave their address and telephone number so that In view of the initiatives success, it is now being
they could be visited at home. The next week, the pioneers expanded worldwide to other densely populated metropolitan
returned to the bus stop and followed the same method as areas. The local branch office will identify which cities would
before. They placed 164 magazines and started one more benefit. Usually, these are cities with transportation hubs or a
Bible study. At one stop a passenger boarded the bus and took large concentration of office or apartment buildings that
the only available seatnext to a pioneer. He looked at the results in high pedestrian traffic. Thereafter, the branch office
brother and said with a smile: I know, you have a will initiate correspondence to the congregations that will
Watchtower for me. participate and provide additional instructions. Regular and
special pioneers are generally used, although in some places
15
Many publishers give an effective witness while auxiliary pioneers also have a share in the work.
traveling by bus, train, or airplane. How can you start a 4
conversation with a passenger seated next to you? One 12- How the Witnessing Is Done: Those involved in
year-old publisher simply began reading a copy of Awake! on special metropolitan public witnessing usually wait for
the bus, hoping to arouse the curiosity of a teenage girl seated someone to come to the table or mobile display. When

110
someone approaches, he is invited to take any literature that including public witnessing in their personal ministry. Is there
interests him. The pioneers gladly answer from the Scriptures a shopping area, a strip mall, or a busy store in your territory?
any questions he may have. If he takes literature, the pioneers Is there a park or a place where people gather? Are there
do not mention the donation arrangement. But if he inquires public events that are periodically held in the territory? If so,
about how our work is funded, they may explain that you may still be able to enjoy public witnessing.
donations can be sent to the address listed in the literature. 9
When possible, they ask: Would you like someone to visit It is Jehovahs will that all sorts of men should be
your home? or Are you aware that a free Bible study comes saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth. (1 Tim.
with that publication? 2:4) Therefore, we are trying to reach as many people as
possible with the Kingdom message before the end comes.
5
Sharing in this initiative has been very rewarding. One (Matt. 24:14) In many places it is a challenge to find people
couple wrote: Standing at the table and seeing thousands of at home. Yet, we may be able to speak to them when they are
people go by each day has impressed upon our hearts the vast away from home in a public setting. Public witnessing may
work that is being done to reach people all around the world. be the only way that some people will get an opportunity to
Seeing these masses of people and thinking about how hear the good news. Therefore, may we fully accomplish our
Jehovah truly cares for each person has strengthened our ministry by preaching to people wherever they may be found.
resolve to continue putting the preaching work at the center 2 Tim. 4:5.
of our lives. We imagine Jehovah scanning the hearts of all
those who pass by the table, searching for those who are
worthy. We have rarely felt so close to our angelic *** km 9/96 pp. 4-5 pars. 16-17 Preach the Good News
coworkers. Everywhere ***
6 16
Public Witnessing That Is Organized Locally: In Witnessing in Parks and Parking Lots: Witnessing
addition to special metropolitan public witnessing, another in parks and parking lots is an excellent way to reach people.
new initiative is being organized by many bodies of elders in Have you tried witnessing in the parking area of a shopping
their local territory. With this initiative, publishers use a table center? Always take a few moments to observe your
or a mobile display at a busy location within the surroundings. Look for someone who is not in a hurry or who
congregations territory boundary. This is different from is waiting in a parked car and try to initiate a friendly
special metropolitan public witnessing, which uses conversation. If the conversation continues, bring in the
participants from many congregations to preach in the same Kingdom message. Try working separately but with another
high-traffic areas in cities chosen by the branch office.See publisher in the vicinity. Avoid carrying a large, bulky bag or
the box Good Cooperation Needed. in other ways attracting attention to your work. Be discreet. It
7
may be best to spend only a short time in one parking lot and
The elders will consider whether the congregations then move to another. If someone does not wish to converse
territory has areas of high pedestrian traffic and determine if with you, politely go on your way and look for someone else
it would be practical to organize public witnessing. Possible to approach. Using these methods, one brother placed 90
locations for a table or mobile display include transportation magazines in one month while witnessing in parking lots.
hubs, public squares, parks, busy streets, shopping malls,
17
college campuses, airports, and locations of annual events. Some people go to a park to relax; others go there to
There is an advantage in having a table set up in the same play a game or to spend time with their children. Without
location, on the same days, and at the same times. It has been unduly interfering with their activities, watch for an
found that tables set up at shopping malls are more effective opportunity to give a witness. One brother began a
than those outside a single large store where individuals are conversation with the grounds keeper of a park and found that
usually focused on their reason for visiting that specific store. he was concerned about drugs and the future of his children.
Some locations, such as busy sidewalks, may be more A home Bible study was started and was regularly conducted
conducive to a smaller mobile literature display. Elders can in the park.
download from our Web site special files for making displays
of the Watchtower and Awake! magazines and the Bible
Teach book. These files have been prepared specifically for *** km 6/11 p. 2 Street Witnessing That Is Effective ***
use in this form of public witnessing. Those who participate Street Witnessing That Is Effective
will carry out the work in much the same way as those
1
engaged in special metropolitan public witnessing and should During his earthly ministry, Jesus did not hesitate to
follow the direction of the service overseer closely. If they speak with people he met on the road and in other public
obtain an address from an interested person who does not live places. (Luke 9:57-61; John 4:7) He wanted to share his
in their territory, they should promptly fill out a Please important message with as many people as possible. Today,
Follow Up (S-43) form and give it to the secretary. street witnessing is an excellent way to help people obtain
8
godly wisdom. (Prov. 1:20) Our success will be enhanced if
Public Witnessing in Your Personal Ministry: Some we take the initiative and use discernment.
congregations may not have a location in their territory that
2
has sufficient pedestrian traffic to justify setting up a table or Take the Initiative: It is generally better to approach
making use of a mobile literature display. However, even in individuals rather than to stand or sit in one place waiting for
those congregations, publishers are encouraged to consider passersby to approach you. Smile, make eye contact, and
111
have a calm, friendly manner. If you are working with other previous occasions. Courage and good judgment are needed
publishers, it is usually best to approach people separately. so that we are bold and persuasive, yet not overly persistent.
Initiative is also needed to follow up on the interest that you 4
find. If appropriate, at the end of the conversation, kindly ask The key to effective street witnessing is to have a warm,
how you may contact the person again. Some publishers do cheerful, and sincere approach. Smile. Catch the persons eye
street work regularly at the same location, enabling them to if you can, but if not, go ahead and make a friendly approach.
speak to the same people repeatedly and further their interest. Observe the circumstances, and make use of them. One sister
observes women laden with grocery bags and says, I see you
3
Use Discernment: Use good judgment in deciding have been food shopping. It certainly is expensive these days.
where to stand on the street and whom to approach. It is not How about some encouraging food for the mind and heart? I
necessary to witness to every passerby. Be observant. If the enjoyed this article . . . . To someone with children, she says,
person is in a hurry, for example, it may be best to let him I see you have two lovely children. Did you know that the
pass. When witnessing in front of a business place, be Bible says children are a blessing from God? Here, let me
discreet so as to avoid causing undue concern to the manager. show you . . . . Approaching a person deep in thought, she
It is often better to witness to people as they leave the says, I see you are thinking about something. The world is
business rather than as they enter. Approach people in a way so full of trouble today, dont you agree? Do you think a time
that will not frighten or startle them. Also, be discerning will ever come when . . . ?
when offering literature. If individuals display little interest, 5
you may offer a tract instead of the magazines. If a person is rushing down the street, you may just
hand him a tract with the comment, Here is some good news
4
Street witnessing enables us to scatter many seeds of for you to read when you have time. If people do not seem
truth in a short period of time. (Eccl. 11:6) Some people we to be rushed, offer the magazines, and explain the donation
meet may even be those we are unable to find at home when arrangement. It is good to get the literature into the hands of
working from house to house. Why not make arrangements to people whenever possible.
engage in street witnessing, an enjoyable and effective form 6
of field service? Many publishers who were at first nervous about street
witnessing now view it as their favorite form of preaching. Of
*** km 2/91 p. 8 Presenting the Good NewsBy course, caution must be exercised when working in
Street Witnessing *** dangerous areas or at times when it is unsafe. Even in small
Presenting the Good NewsBy Street Witnessing towns, there are usually busy areas, public transportation
centers, or public parking lots where people can be
1
Proverbs 1:20 says: True wisdom itself keeps crying approached with the good news. Seize the opportunity, and
aloud in the very street. In the public squares it keeps giving with wisdom let your voice give forth the good news in the
forth its voice. These words are especially true today as streets and public squares, to the blessing of the hearers and
Jehovahs servants zealously preach the good news of the to the honor of Jehovah.Prov. 1:20.
Kingdom wherever they can find people. Like Jesus and pre-
Christian prophets, our genuine love for people moves us to
present the truth to everyone, everywhere.Jer. 11:6; Mark *** w08 9/15 pp. 25-26 Marketplace Witnessing ***
6:56; Luke 13:22, 26. Marketplace Witnessing
2
Although a persons home is usually the most desirable WHEN in the city of Athens, the apostle Paul went every
place to speak to him about the truth, not many people are at day to the marketplace to preach the good news about Jesus.
home when we make house-to-house calls. When (Acts 17:17) Paul chose the marketplace because that was the
householders are home, often it is the same person we spoke center of Athenian life.
to before that answers the door, and other members of the
family are not contacted. Thus, street witnessing should have Almost 2,000 years later, Jehovahs people still use the
a definite place in our ministry. You may find that street marketplace to spread the message of Gods Kingdom. Why?
witnessing is, as one pioneer expressed it, an exciting, fresh, Because many people can be found there. Today, the
and at-home territory. marketplace may be a shopping center or a mall. After having
obtained permission from the manager or owner, some
A WARM POSITIVE ATTITUDE Witnesses have used a table or a booth for displaying Bible
3
Why not try doing your street witnessing in the same literature.
area on a regular basis? One sister who does this says that she For example, at a shopping mall in New Jersey, U.S.A.,
has become acquainted with most of the shopkeepers and an attractive display of literature was arranged on the theme
other people who are frequently on her street. A good Maintaining Family ValuesHow? The result? In one day,
rapport has developed, which has opened the way for many 153 books in six languages were placed.
productive Bible discussions. An auxiliary pioneer who
thoroughly enjoys street witnessing said that he tries to One woman who approached the literature booth listened
approach window-shoppers, people sitting in their cars, attentively to the explanation given by one of the Witnesses.
people waiting for buses, and even those who have said no on The woman agreed that it is important to have God in our life
and in our family. She obtained the following publications:

112
Learn From the Great Teacher, The Secret of Family The sister was able to obtain the name and address of the
Happiness, and Questions Young People AskAnswers That woman, and a return visit was made that same week.
Work.
In the early afternoon, a man passed by the display of *** km 3/12 p. 2 Witness in Business Territory With
literature as he was about to enter the store next to it. His eyes Confidence ***
were drawn to the Young People Ask book. The sister Witness in Business Territory With Confidence
standing in the booth noticed a curious look on his face. She
asked him, Is there a book that interests you? He nodded 1
Do you find the thought of witnessing at businesses to
and pointed to the Young People Ask book. She handed him be intimidating? If so, do not despair, for even Paul, who was
the book, which he was already reaching for. He said that he a bold and fearless minister, had to muster up boldness in
has three children. As the conversation continued, he order to preach. (1 Thess. 2:2) Below are some common
mentioned that he has discussions with them once a week. concerns along with practical suggestions for addressing
His two oldest children are teenagers. While scanning the them.
book, he said that he could very easily use it as a guide for
2
some of their family discussions. The publisher also directed Will Interrupting the Workers Annoy Them? In
his attention to The Secret of Family Happiness, assuring him many businesses, workers serve the public and expect
that he and his wife would find some very helpful advice on interruptions. They will often be polite, since they may view
making family decisions. The man was grateful for the you as a potential customer. By dressing in a dignified
suggestion, made a donation, and accepted the offer to have manner and being warm and friendly, you will encourage
someone visit them. respectful treatment.
3
How did the Witnesses feel about their day of witnessing Will I Have to Give My Presentation in Front of
in the mall? I personally enjoyed this avenue of preaching, Many Customers? If possible, choose a time when stores are
said one sister. What an experience it was for me! Another not overly busy, such as when they first open. Wait until the
sister said: Jehovah says that the good news will be preached manager or clerk is alone before approaching him. Make your
to the most distant part of the earth. Today, in Paramus, New presentation very brief.
Jersey, this good news touched people of different languages. 4
What Should I Say? Speak to the person in charge if
It was wonderful to be a part of this arrangement. Everyone
there are several workers. You might say: Its hard to find
who participated in it was happy. None of us wanted to leave
businesspeople at home, so were visiting you at your
at the end of the day.
workplace. I know youre working, so Ill be very brief. So
Can you expand the ways in which you preach the good that we will not be confused with salesmen, it is usually best
news? Our primary method is that of going from house to not to mention the donation arrangement unless we are asked
house. (Acts 20:20) However, would you consider witnessing how our work is financed. Depending on the nature of the
in the marketplace or in the mall? business, you may ask the manager for permission to speak
briefly to the workers. Repeat your presentation to them. If a
worker seems busy, shorten your presentation and leave him a
*** km 9/96 p. 5 pars. 18-20 Preach the Good News tract. If it is not possible to talk with the workers, perhaps you
Everywhere *** will be allowed to leave literature in the break room or other
18
Informal Witnessing in Shopping Malls: While it is common area.
not always possible to preach formally from store to store in 5
Jesus and Paul preached to people at their places of
shopping malls because of local restrictions on such business with confidence, and so can you. (Matt. 4:18-21;
activities, some publishers create opportunities to witness 9:9; Acts 17:17) Ask Jehovah to help you to have a calm heart
there informally. They sit down on a bench and strike up a and to be bold. (Acts 4:29) Business territory has few not-at-
friendly conversation with others who stop to rest. When homes, so why not give this productive form of witnessing a
interest is shown, they discreetly offer a tract or a magazine try?
and endeavor to make arrangements for a return visit. After
spending a few minutes witnessing in one section of the mall,
they proceed to another and engage someone else in *** km 7/04 p. 4 How to Preach in Business Territory ***
conversation. Of course, care should be taken not to attract How to Preach in Business Territory
undue attention while witnessing informally in this way.
1
19 Would you like to preach in territory where people
When greeting a person, begin the conversation on a
generally welcome visitors and where not-at-homes are rare?
friendly note. If your listener responds, ask a question, then
You may be able to do so right in your congregation territory.
listen attentively as he expresses himself. Take a personal
How? By calling on the businesses found there. Publishers
interest in what he is saying. Show that you value his opinion.
witnessing from store to store often enjoy good results.
Where possible, agree with him.
2
20 Some congregations have business districts as part of
One sister had a delightful talk with an elderly woman
their assigned territory. The brother caring for the territory
by mentioning how high the cost of living has become. The
may prepare special map cards of these heavily concentrated
woman readily agreed, and a lively conversation resulted.
113
business sections. Any residential territory map cards that from store to store, dress as you would if you were attending
overlap them should clearly indicate that the businesses are a meeting at the Kingdom Hall. If possible, enter the store
not to be worked as part of the territory. In other territories, when there are no customers waiting to be served. Ask to
businesses can be worked along with the residences. If you speak to the manager or to the person in charge. Be warm,
have never done business witnessing, start by trying a few and above all, be brief. There is no need to be apologetic.
smaller stores. Many businesses are customer-oriented and have come to
3
expect interruptions.
Use a Simple Approach: When witnessing from store
23
to store, it is important to dress as you would for a meeting at After greeting a storekeeper, you might say this:
the Kingdom Hall. It is also good to choose a time when the Businesspeople have such full schedules that we rarely find
store is not busy. If possible, enter when there are no them at home, so we are visiting you here at your place of
customers waiting to be served. Ask to speak to the manager business to leave you a very thought-provoking article to
or the person in charge. Be brief and to the point. What might read. Then make a comment or two about a magazine being
you say? offered.
4 24
When speaking with a storekeeper or manager, you Or you might try this when approaching a manager:
might say something like this: Business people have such We have noticed that businesspeople make it a point to be
full schedules that we rarely find them at home, so we are well-informed. The latest issue of The Watchtower (or
visiting you at your workplace. Our magazines give a global Awake!) features an article that affects all of us personally.
perspective on current events. Then feature one brief point Explain what it is, and conclude by saying: We are sure you
from one magazine. will enjoy reading it.
5 25
Or you might try this simple approach: Many people If there are employees, and it seems appropriate, you
would like to know more about the Bible but have very little might add: Would you mind if I gave the same brief
time. This tract explains a free study program that is available presentation to your employees? If permission is granted,
to help you find answers to your Bible questions. Then point remember you have promised to be brief, and the manager
out pages 4-5 of the tract Would You Like to Know More will expect you to keep your word. If any employees wish to
About the Bible? enter into a long discussion, it would be best to call on them
6
at their home.
If the person in charge seems to be busy, you might just
26
offer a tract and say: I will stop by again when you are not Recently, a few publishers in a small town joined the
so busy. I would like to know what you think of this tract. circuit overseer in store-to-store work. Some of the publishers
7
were apprehensive at first, having never done the work
Cultivating Interest Shown: You may even be able to before; but they soon relaxed and began to enjoy it. In less
conduct a Bible study in business territory. A special pioneer than an hour, they spoke to 37 people and placed 24
regularly delivered the magazines to a businessman. When magazines and 4 brochures. One brother observed that
the man expressed appreciation for what he was reading, the normally they would not be able to contact as many people in
pioneer demonstrated the Bible study arrangement, using the one month of house-to-house work as they did while working
Require brochure. A study was established right there at the from store to store in that short time.
mans place of work. Taking into account the circumstances,
the pioneer limited it to 10 or 15 minutes each time. May we, *** km 1/10 pp. 4-6 A Help for Telephone Witnessing
likewise, continue to search for deserving ones by witnessing ***
in business territory. A Help for Telephone Witnessing

*** km 9/96 p. 5 pars. 21-26 Preach the Good News While we properly give priority to the house-to-house
Everywhere *** method of preaching, telephone witnessing is an effective
way to spread the good news in a congregations assigned
21
Working From Store to Store: Some congregations territory, especially where there are many homes to which we
have business districts as part of their assigned territory. The cannot gain access.Luke 10:5-7; Acts 5:42; 20:20.
brother caring for the territory may prepare special map cards
of these heavily concentrated business sections. Any This feature of the ministry can be encouraging to
residential territory map cards that overlap them should brothers and sisters who are limited in mobility and spend
clearly indicate that the businesses are not to be worked as much of their time at home. Publishers will enjoy an
part of the territory. In other territories, business places can be interchange of encouragement when they arrange to share in
worked along with the residences. The elders may invite this form of witnessing with these faithful ones. (Rom.
qualified publishers to work the business territories on a 1:11, 12) Also, during inclement weather, publishers may
regular basis so that store-to-store work is not neglected. choose to participate in telephone witnessing. Generally
speaking, groups should be kept small so that all make the
22
If you are invited to share in this work and you have best use of time.
never done it before, a good way to muster up boldness is to
work a few smaller stores first; then, when you feel more A helpful work sheet is provided on pages 5-6 for use
confident, work the larger ones. (1 Thess. 2:2) When working when witnessing by telephone. Space is provided to add

114
presentations that are effective in your territory or that you are concerned about . . . [Mention a current news item
feel more comfortable using. Feel free to photocopy the work of local concern.]
sheet and write on the copy rather than on the original. You
may find it helpful to sit at a table and have the work sheet in [Insert your own.]
front of you. [Then continue with your presentation. You may read a
What else will you need when witnessing by telephone? suggestion from the Reasoning book, Our Kingdom
Review this check list as you prepare. Ministry, or prepare your own.]

Personal Bible [Insert your own.]

Reasoning From the Scriptures To offer a Bible study on the initial call:

Good News for People of All Nations Hello. My name is . . . I am one of your neighbors from . . .
Street. Im calling because I give Bible lessons free of
What Does the Bible Really Teach? charge and I have openings in my schedule. Here are
some of the subjects that will be discussed from your
Current magazines and Our Kingdom Bible. [Read two or three of the chapter titles from the
Ministry Bible Teach book.] Which of those interests you the
Variety of tracts and brochures most? [Allow for response.] What I read to you are
chapter titles from a book entitled What Does the Bible
Handbills Really Teach? I would be happy to come by and drop off
a copy. There is no charge for the book.
House-to-house records and pencil or pen
If the householder hesitates, you might say:
SAVE
Then perhaps I could call you again to discuss briefly what
TELEPHONE WITNESSING WORK SHEET
the Bible really teaches on the subject you are interested
KEEP THESE POINTS IN MIND: in. Are you usually home at this time?

Relax. Be yourself. Demonstrate courteousness, patience, [Insert your own.]


and friendliness.
If the householder says . . .
Speak slowly, deliberately, and with sufficient volume.
WHOM DO YOU REPRESENT?
Smile and gesture as if the person can see you.
I am one of Jehovahs Witnesses, and continue with your
Avoid unnecessary pauses. presentation.

Allow the householder to share in the conversation, and HOW DID YOU GET MY NUMBER?
thank him for his expressions.
From the directory, and continue with your presentation.
If you are asked a question, repeat it out loud so that your
IM ON A DO-NOT-CALL LIST.
partner can help you find the answer in the Bible,
Reasoning book, or another publication. (It is usually Since Im not selling anything, I dont have that list, and
better not to put the caller on a speakerphone.) continue with your presentation.
Do not mention the donation arrangement, as this could be If the householder requests that Jehovahs Witnesses not
misinterpreted as a form of telephone solicitation. At an call him again . . .
appropriate time after you have met the householder
face-to-face, you may inform him that our work is Ill make a note of that, and we will endeavor to honor
supported entirely by voluntary donations. your wishes, and discontinue your presentation. [A
dated note with the name of the person should then be
INTRODUCTIONS placed in the territory envelope.]
Hello. My name is . . . I am calling because I am not able If you get an answering machine . . .
to come and see you personally. I live here in the
community. [You might give the name of your street or Im sorry that I didnt find you at home. My name is . . . I
neighborhood.] Im interested in your opinion was calling to invite you to a Bible-based discourse on
regarding . . . the subject ......

Hello. My name is . . . Im helping people in the [Day and time:] ......


community with their Bible questions as a public service. [Address:] ......
Have you ever wondered . . . ?
No collections are ever taken.
Hello. My name is . . . Im not a telemarketer; I am one of
your neighbors from . . . Street. Many in the community
115
3
My name is . . . , and I am calling as a public service to Do we personally feel this same indebtedness and
help people get answers to their Bible questions. I will manifest a similar eagerness to reach everyone in our
call you again. territory? While we prefer sharing the good news with others
face-to-face, as in door-to-door and street witnessing, why
[Insert your own.] limit our activity to this? It is possible that many individuals
CONCLUSIONS: in our congregation territory have never spoken with one of
Jehovahs Witnesses. How can this be?
I have a publication that Id like to share with you that 4
gives more information on the subject. I would be glad to Unworked Territory: Does your territory have high-
come by and drop it off. There is no charge. rise apartments guarded by doormen? Perhaps there are high-
security apartment complexes that are off-limits to door-to-
I enjoyed talking with you. Would it be possible for me door visitation. Has the congregation been denied entry to
(and my husband/wife) to visit your home to discuss the preach the good news in a military base or a private
subject further? We could discuss the answer to this subdivision located in the territory? Very likely some
question: ...... individuals living in such places have never heard about the
blessings of Gods Kingdom. Are there people who are never
I enjoyed our conversation. The next time I call, Id like to
found at home?
discuss the Bibles answer to this question: ...... Is this a
good time to call? 5
We need not despair of reaching these people because
they are difficult to contact. How does Jehovah view the
[Insert your own.]
situation? The apostle Peter writes: Jehovah . . . does not
If the person is reluctant for you to visit, you might say: desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to
repentance. . . . Furthermore, consider the patience of our
If you prefer, I would be happy to send the publication to Lord as salvation. (2 Pet. 3:9, 15) Lives are involved, and
you. Jehovah is interested in each one. (Matt. 18:14) How can we
Then perhaps I could call you again to continue our show the kind of compassion and mercy that Jehovah
discussion. Are you usually home at this time? displays for these individuals? By seeing that everyone in our
territory receives a witness.Acts 20:20, 21; Rev. 14:6, 7.
I enjoyed our conversation. Id like to invite you to a 6
Bible-based discourse on the subject ...... Organized for Thorough Activity: In the past the
Society has encouraged those who are confined to their
[Day and time:] ...... homes, either temporarily or permanently because of illness
or physical disability, to make good use of the telephone.
[Address:] ...... Those who find themselves in such a situation should
No collections are ever taken. continue this fine work. Also, reports have been received that
a number of brothers and sisters, including regular and
[Insert your own.] auxiliary pioneers, have used telephone witnessing as an
adjunct to their usual door-to-door ministry.
7
Some congregations have made a concerted effort to
arrange for telephone witnessing. When elders take the lead
in organizing the territories and providing support either
*** km 8/93 pp. 3-4 Telephone WitnessingA Way to personally or through other publishers, greater success is
Reach Many *** reported. The service overseer is responsible for supervising
Telephone WitnessingA Way to Reach Many this activity. However, any qualified elder or responsible
ministerial servant may be selected by the body of elders to
1
Evidence abounds that we are now living in the last work closely with the service overseer in organizing the
days. (2 Tim. 3:1) Without a doubt the time left for Kingdom work.
preaching and disciple making is reduced. Each of us, 8
Publishers who have overcome their initial reluctance
therefore, should act with urgency to help others become and have gained experience in telephone witnessing have
approved worshipers of Jehovah God. found it to be a productive field. At the outset, perhaps only a
2
The apostle Paul felt his responsibility to make public few publishers and pioneers will make these calls. After they
declaration of his faith. (Rom. 10:10) He knew that Gods become familiar and comfortable with this type of
will is that all sorts of men should be saved and come to an witnessing, their enthusiasm and encouraging experiences
accurate knowledge of truth. (1 Tim. 2:4) Based on his may move others to learn how to share in this interesting
knowledge of truth, Paul considered himself to be a debtor to aspect of the preaching work.
all. This increased his sense of urgency in declaring the good 9
Where to Begin: It may be possible to get names of
news. He said: There is eagerness on my part to declare the residents from the directory in the lobby of an apartment
good news . . . For I am not ashamed of the good news; it is, building. Then the telephone numbers may be looked up in
in fact, Gods power for salvation to everyone having the telephone directory. A city directory in the local library
faith.Rom. 1:14-17.
116
may list the names of occupants of every home and apartment wonder, Is a genuinely happy life possible? How do you
in the community. In some communities a special book that feel about that? [Allow time for answer.] What would you say
lists telephone numbers by street locations is available. is one of the biggest obstacles to happiness today? Or after
Photocopies of pages from the latest edition could serve as introducing yourself as above, you could say: I am involved
territories. The size of these territories should be kept in an international volunteer work, and I would like your
relatively small. thoughts on the meaning of life. As we get up in years, we
10
realize that life is very short. Is this all that life is meant to
In all forms of witnessing activity, it is most beneficial be? How do you feel about it? (See Reasoning book,
to keep accurate records. This is also true for telephone page 13, subheading Life/Happiness.) A review of the
witnessing. Carefully note helpful information on a house-to- suggestions in Our Kingdom Ministry of July 1990, page 4,
house record, such as the subject discussed, the interests of with regard to using introductions and avoiding objections
the householder, and the subject that will be discussed on the faced in telephone witnessing will provide further helpful
next call. Indicate whether another telephone call should be information.
made at a later date or a personal visit has been arranged.
17
11
Use the Bible early in the discussion. At some point in
Personal Schedule Needed: A regular routine will the conversation, when it seems appropriate to do so, mention
help build your confidence and ward off apprehension. It is that you are one of Jehovahs Witnesses. Allow the
best to call when people are more likely to be home, such as householder to share in the conversation. Do not be afraid to
in the evening and on the weekends. Schedule a regular time listen if the person wants to share what he thinks. Thank him
each week to make these calls. Some have found the hour for his expressions and observations. Be ready to commend.
before the Congregation Book Study to be a productive time. However, if the individual begins to dominate the
Find out what works best in your area. conversation or argue, tactfully terminate the call. Let Gods
12
How to Prepare: Talk with others who enjoy this spirit direct your efforts and help you search for those whose
privilege of service and get ideas. Always be positive. Look hearts are right toward him.
to Jehovah as your source of power and strength, and seek his 18
It is better for you to bring the conversation to a close
direction through prayer. (Ps. 27:14; Phil. 4:13) Plan to put than to leave it to the householder to do so. You can conclude
your whole heart into this activity, just as in other forms of simply by inviting the person to the public talk at the
witnessing.Compare Mark 12:33. Kingdom Hall, giving the address and meeting times. You
13
Experience has proved that sitting at a desk or a table may also ask if a visit may be made to his home to speak with
can be helpful. Sitting in an upright chair promotes clear him further on the subject discussed. It may even be possible
thinking and concentration. Lay out all the witnessing to present literature effectively over the telephone. Magazines
materials that you may usetracts, the literature currently may be offered with the goal of starting a magazine route.
being featured, the latest magazines or some interesting older 19
Share in the Joy of Telephone Witnessing: Will all
copies, the Bible, the Reasoning book, an invitation to the the calls become Bible studies? No, but some will. For
meetings with specific meeting times and Kingdom Hall example, one sister made over 300 calls in one month. After
address listed, a pen or a pencil, and house-to-house records. introducing herself, she explained why she was telephoning
Have your literature readily available, perhaps even open to a rather than visiting each householder. She then gave a short
particular article. Thoroughly rehearse your presentation. presentation. This resulted in 12 good calls. She is still
Keep in mind that the purpose of your call is to give a witness contacting three interested persons by telephone, and four
and to arrange a visit with the individual as soon as possible. others agreed that she could visit them at their homes. One
14
Making the Actual Call: Relax. Be yourself. A warm, individual accepted the Live Forever book and is now being
pleasing voice is needed for effective telephone witnessing. visited regularly.
The smile on your face will be reflected in your tone of voice. 20
Jesus Christ commanded his disciples to push the
Speak slowly and clearly, using sufficient volume. Be witnessing work to the most distant part of the earth. (Acts
courteous, patient, and friendly. Do not fear rejection. Accept 1:8) In some areas, carrying out this command means
the fact that people may not be interested in your message. witnessing by telephone. After reviewing the above material,
View it the same as you would in your regular door-to-door ask yourself: Can I do more in my congregation territory to
ministry. preach the good news to all sorts of men, including those
15
In your introduction, state your full name. It is best not who are living in areas never before reached? Brothers who
to say that you are phoning all the people in a particular have followed these suggestions have been greatly
building or complex, as this may result in raising barriers. encouraged by the results. They have found telephone
witnessing to be an exceptional way to glorify their
16
Many introductions from the Reasoning book may be ministry. (Rom. 11:13) May you experience this same joy
read word for word in a conversational manner. For example, through telephone witnessing.
you might introduce yourself this way: Hello, my name is
________. I am calling you because I am unable to come and
see you personally. Then, without pausing, say: I am
interested in getting your view on whether the quality of life
will ever improve. Most of us are glad to be alive, but many
117
*** yb06 pp. 52-53 Worldwide Report ***
Venezuela: A family of Witnesses recently got a new Unit 7 (a) Benefit From Counsel and Direction
telephone line in their house and a new number. Because of a
technical problem, however, they began receiving phone calls (Galatians 6:1) Brothers, even if a man takes a false step
from people who wanted to contact the local television before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications
station to talk to a lady astrologer, who was on hand. The try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness. But keep an
family decided to make the best of the situation. With the eye on yourself, for fear you too may be tempted.
help of the book Reasoning From the Scriptures, they
prepared some information and a few Bible texts to share Unit 7 (b) Resist the Spirit of the World
with these callers. Graciela, the mother, became an expert.
(1 Corinthians 2:12) Now we received, not the spirit of the
One day a caller said: Hello. Are you the goddess of the world, but the spirit that is from God, so that we might know
stars? the things that have been kindly given us by God.
Hello. My name is Graciela, what is yours?
Carmen. Page 81
Unit 9 (b)
Carmen, why do you want to talk to the goddess of the Unit 8 (a) Walk in the Way of Integrity
stars? Do you need help or advice?
(1 Chronicles 29:17) I well know, O my God, that you
Carmen proceeded to tell our sister about a personal examine the heart and that you take pleasure in integrity. In
problem. In a warm tone, Graciela explained where we can the uprightness of my heart, I have voluntarily offered all
get the best advice, and she read Carmen passages from the these things, and I am overjoyed to see your people who are
present here make voluntary offerings to you.
Bible. She then asked her, Dont you think we should go to
our Creator if we need reliable guidance now and in the Unit 8 (b) Participate in Various Forms of Our Ministry
future? Carmen then confessed that she had studied the
Bible with Jehovahs Witnesses in the past, so arrangements (1 Corinthians 9:23) But I do all things for the sake of the
were made for her to resume her study. Subsequently, good news, in order to share it with others.
Gracielas family has spoken to many others seeking help,
often giving them a good witness, encouraging them to listen Unit 9 (a) Workshop 2
to the Witnesses when they call, and directing them to the Participate in Various Forms of Our Ministry
local Kingdom Hall.
(Hebrews 13:15) Through him let us always offer to God a
Page 78 sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that make
public declaration to his name.
Unit 8 (b)
Pages 82-83 no citations
Maintain Boldness in Various Forms of Our Ministry
(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, go on acquiring power in the Lord Page 84
and in the mightiness of his strength. Unit 10 (a)

a Appreciate Jesus Role


Page 79 Unit 9 (a)
OPENING DISUCSSION
(Acts 1:8) But you will receive power when the holy spirit
Workshop 2 comes upon you, and you will be witnesses of me in
Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the most
Participate in Various Forms of Our Ministry distant part of the earth.

(John 14:6) Jesus said to him: I am the way and the truth
OPENING DISCUSSION and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
(Acts 20:20, 21) while I did not hold back from telling you
any of the things that were profitable nor from teaching you (1 Corinthians 8:6) there is actually to us one God, the
publicly and from house to house. 21 But I thoroughly bore Father, from whom all things are and we for him; and there is
witness both to Jews and to Greeks about repentance toward one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are and we
God and faith in our Lord Jesus. through him.
(Hebrews 13:15) Through him let us always offer to God a QUESTION OUTLINE
sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that make The Person
public declaration to his name. (Colossians 1:15) He is the image of the invisible God, the
firstborn of all creation;

Page 80 Unit 9 (b) (John 1:3) All things came into existence through him, and
Pioneer Service School Review Day 3 apart from him not even one thing came into existence. What
has come into existence
118
his way, the earliest of his achievements of long ago, nor
(John 1:14) So the Word became flesh and resided among us, that the Son was beside [Jehovah] as a master worker
and we had a view of his glory, a glory such as belongs to an during earths creation, as described in these verses of
only-begotten son from a father; and he was full of divine Proverbs. It is true that in Hebrew, which assigns gender to its
favor and truth. nouns (as do many other languages), the word for wisdom
is always in the feminine gender. This would continue to be
the case even though wisdom is personified and so would not
(Hebrews 11:17) By faith Abraham, when he was tested, as rule out wisdoms being used figuratively to represent Gods
good as offered up Isaacthe man who had gladly received firstborn Son. The Greek word for love in the expression
the promises attempted to offer up his only-begotten son God is love (1Jo 4:8) is also in the feminine gender but that
does not make God feminine. Solomon, the principal writer
*** it-2 p. 53 Jesus Christ *** of Proverbs (Pr 1:1), applied the title qoheleth (congregator)
How he is the only-begotten Son. to himself (Ec 1:1) and this word is also in the feminine
Jesus being called the only-begotten Son (Joh 1:14; gender.
3:16, 18; 1Jo 4:9) does not mean that the other spirit creatures
produced were not Gods sons, for they are called sons as (John 1:1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was
well. (Ge 6:2, 4; Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:4-7) However, by virtue of with God, and the Word was a god.
his being the sole direct creation of his Father, the firstborn
Son was unique, different from all others of Gods sons, all of
whom were created or begotten by Jehovah through that (John 1:14) So the Word became flesh and resided among us,
firstborn Son. So the Word was Jehovahs only-begotten and we had a view of his glory, a glory such as belongs to an
Son in a particular sense, even as Isaac was Abrahams only-begotten son from a father; and he was full of divine
only-begotten son in a particular sense (his father already favor and truth.
having another son but not by his wife Sarah).Heb 11:17;
Ge 16:15. (John 12:50) And I know that his commandment means
everlasting life. So whatever I speak, I speak just as the
(Matthew 19:4-6) In reply he said: Have you not read that Father has told me.
the one who created them from the beginning made them
male and female 5 and said: For this reason a man will leave *** w08 12/15 pp. 12-13
his father and his mother and will stick to his wife, and the Appreciate Jesus Unique Role in Gods Purpose ***
two will be one flesh? 6 So that they are no longer two, but
one flesh. Therefore, what God has yoked together, let no The Word
man put apart.
6
Read John 1:14. Why is Jesus called the Word, or
*** it-2 p. 52 Jesus Christ *** Logos? This title identifies the function that he has performed
Not a co-Creator. since other intelligent creatures came into existence. Jehovah
The Sons share in the creative works, however, did not make
him a co-Creator with his Father. The power for creation used his Son to convey information and instructions to other
came from God through his holy spirit, or active force. (Ge spirit sons, even as God used that Son to deliver His message
1:2; Ps 33:6) And since Jehovah is the Source of all life, all to humans on earth. The fact that Jesus is the Word, or Gods
animate creation, visible and invisible, owes its life to him. Spokesman, is echoed in what Christ said to his Jewish
(Ps 36:9) Rather than a co-Creator, then, the Son
listeners: What I teach is not mine, but belongs to him that
was the agent or instrumentality through whom Jehovah, the sent me. If anyone desires to do His will, he will know
Creator, worked. Jesus himself credited God with the concerning the teaching whether it is from God or I speak of
creation, as do all the Scriptures.Mt 19:4-6; see my own originality. (John 7:16, 17) Jesus continues to bear
CREATION. the title The Word of God even after his return to heavenly
glory.Rev. 19:11, 13, 16.
Page 85
Unit 10 (b) 7
Just think about what this title implies. Although Jesus
is the wisest of all of Jehovahs creatures, he does not rely on
(Proverbs 8:12) I, wisdom, dwell together with shrewdness; his own wisdom. He speaks as his Father instructs him. He
I have found knowledge and thinking ability. always directs attention to Jehovah rather than to himself.
(John 12:50) What a wonderful example for us to imitate! We
(Proverbs 8:30) Then I was beside him as a master worker. I too have been entrusted with the precious privilege to
was the one he was especially fond of day by day; I rejoiced
before him all the time; declare good news of good things. (Rom. 10:15)
Appreciation for Jesus example of humility should move us
(1 Corinthians 1:24) However, to those who are called, both to avoid speaking of our own initiative. When it comes to
Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom conveying the lifesaving message in the Scriptures, we do not
of God. want to go beyond the things that are written.1 Cor. 4:6.
*** it-2 pp. 52-53 Jesus Christ ***Wisdom personified. *** w98 6/15 pp. 22-23 JesusThe Ruler Whose Origin
What is recorded concerning the Word in the Scriptures fits Is From Early Times ***
remarkably the description given at Proverbs 8:22-31. There
wisdom is personified, represented as though able to speak Jehovahs Spokesman
and act. (Pr 8:1) Many professed Christian writers of the Johns words draw attention to another privilege that Gods
early centuries of the Common Era understood this section to Son enjoyed, namely, being a spokesman. From the
refer symbolically to Gods Son in his prehuman state. In beginning, he served as the Word. Thus, when Jehovah spoke
view of the texts already considered, there can be no denying
that that Son was produced by Jehovah as the beginning of to Adam, and later when he addressed Adam together with
119
Eve, he likely did so through the Word. And who better to Matthew 5:24 in Jesus instructions that a person should first
convey Gods instructions for mankinds welfare than one make his peace with his brother before presenting an
who had a fondness for them?John 1:1, 2. offering on the altar.

How it must have pained the Word to see Eve and then Adam Reconciliation to God. In Pauls letter to the Romans and
disobey their Creator! And how he must have yearned to in several other letters, he uses katallasso and
remedy the ills their disobedience brought on their offspring! apokatallasso (an intensified form) in dealing with mans
(Genesis 2:15-17; 3:6, 8; Romans 5:12) Addressing Satan, being reconciled to God by means of the sacrifice of Christ
who had encouraged Eve to rebel, Jehovah declared: I shall Jesus.
put enmity between you and the woman and between your Such reconciliation to God is necessary because an
seed and her seed. (Genesis 3:15) Having witnessed what alienation has existed, a separation, a lack of harmony and of
happened in Eden, the Word realized that as the primary part friendly relations, more than that, a state of enmity. This came
of the womans seed, he would become the target of vicious through the first man Adams sin and the resultant sinfulness
hatred. He knew that Satan was a manslayer.John 8:44. and imperfection inherited by all his descendants. (Ro 5:12;
compare Isa 43:27.) The apostle could therefore say that the
When Satan later questioned faithful Jobs integrity, the Word
minding of the flesh means enmity with God, for it is not
must have felt outrage at the slanderous accusations leveled
under subjection to the law of God, nor, in fact, can it be [due
against his Father. (Job 1:6-10; 2:1-4) Indeed, in his role as
to its inherited imperfect, sinful nature]. So those who are in
archangel, the Word is known as Michael, whose name means
harmony with the flesh cannot please God. (Ro 8:7, 8)
Who Is Like God? and indicates how he champions
Enmity exists because Gods perfect standards do not allow
Jehovah against all who aspire to usurp Gods sovereignty.
for his approving or condoning wrongdoing. (Ps 5:4; 89:14)
Daniel 12:1; Revelation 12:7-10.
Of his Son, who reflected his Fathers perfect qualities, it is
As the history of Israel unfurled, the Word observed Satans written: You loved righteousness, and you hated
attempts to turn humans away from pure worship. Following lawlessness. (Heb 1:9) Hence, even though God is love
the Exodus from Egypt, God told Israel through Moses: and even though God loved the world [of mankind] so much
Here I am sending an angel ahead of you to keep you on the that he gave his only-begotten Son on mankinds behalf, the
road and to bring you into the place that I have prepared. fact remains that mankind as a whole has been in a state of
Watch yourself because of him and obey his voice. Do not enmity toward God and that Gods love toward the world of
behave rebelliously against him, for he will not pardon your mankind was love toward enemies, a love guided by principle
transgression; because my name is within him. (Exodus (Gr., agape) rather than affection or friendship (Gr., philia).
23:20, 21) Who was this angel? Likely, the prehuman Jesus. 1Jo 4:16; Joh 3:16; compare Jas 4:4.
Since Gods standard is one of perfect righteousness, he
(John 8:23) He went on to say to them: You are from the cannot countenance, or view with favor, sin, which is the
realms below; I am from the realms above. You are from this violation of his express will. He is gracious and merciful
world; I am not from this world.
and rich in mercy (Ps 145:8, 9; Eph 2:4); but he does not
(John 8:42) Jesus said to them: If God were your Father, disregard justice in order to display mercy. As correctly
you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I observed in MClintock and Strongs Cyclopaedia (1894, Vol.
have not come of my own initiative, but that One sent me. VIII, p. 958), the relation between God and sinful man is thus
a legal one, as that of a sovereign, in his judicial capacity,
(John 8:58) Jesus said to them: Most truly I say to you, and a criminal who has violated his laws and risen up against
before Abraham came into existence, I have been. his authority, and who is therefore treated as an enemy. This
is the situation into which mankind was brought because of
The Way
(Romans 5:11) Not only that, but we are also rejoicing in the inheritance of sin from their first father, Adam.
God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have The basis for reconciliation. It is only by and through the
now received the reconciliation.
ransom sacrifice of Christ Jesus that full reconciliation to
*** it-2 pp. 760-762 Reconciliation *** God is possible; he is the way, and no one comes to the
RECONCILIATION Father except through him. (Joh 14:6) His death served as a
propitiatory sacrifice [Gr., hilasmon] for our sins. (1Jo 2:2;
4:10) The word hilasmos signifies a means of appeasing,
To reconcile means to bring back into harmony or cause
an atonement. Clearly, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ was not
to be friendly again; also to adjust or settle, as in reconciling
a means of appeasing in the sense of soothing hurt feelings
differences. In Greek, the words related to reconciliation are
on the part of God, mollifying him, for the death of his
derived from the verb allasso, which, basically, means
beloved Son certainly would produce no such effect. Rather,
change, alter.Ac 6:14; Ga 4:20, Int.
that sacrifice appeased, or satisfied, the demands of Gods
Thus, the compound form katallasso, while meaning, perfect justice by providing the just and righteous basis for
basically, exchange, came to have the meaning reconcile. pardoning sin, so that God might be righteous even when
(Ro 5:10) Paul used this verb when speaking of a womans declaring righteous the man [the hereditarily sinful man] that
making up again with her husband, from whom she had has faith in Jesus. (Ro 3:24-26) By supplying the means for
separated. (1Co 7:11) The related diallassomai appears at expiating (making complete satisfaction for) mans sins and
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unlawful acts, Christs sacrifice made it propitious apart from Christ Jesus, men have no righteousness that could
(favorable) for mans seeking and receiving a restoration to qualify them for a standing before God.Compare Isa 64:6;
right relations with the Sovereign God.Eph 1:7; Heb 2:17; Ro 7:18, 21-25; 1Co 1:30, 31; 1Jo 1:8-10.
see RANSOM.
Steps necessary for attaining reconciliation. Since God
Thus, through Christ, God made it possible to reconcile is the offended party whose law has been and is being
again to himself all other things by making peace through the violated, it is man who must become reconciled to God, not
blood he [Jesus] shed on the torture stake, and thereby God to man. (Ps 51:1-4) Man does not meet God on equal
persons once alienated and enemies because of having their terms, nor is Gods stand as to what is right subject to change,
minds on wicked works could now be reconciled by means emendation, or modification. (Isa 55:6-11; Mal 3:6; compare
of that ones fleshly body through his death, in order to Jas 1:17.) His conditions for reconciliation are therefore
present [them] holy and unblemished and open to no nonnegotiable, not subject to question or compromise.
accusation before him. (Col 1:19-22) Jehovah God could (Compare Job 40:1, 2, 6-8; Isa 40:13, 14.) While many
now declare righteous those whom he selected to become translations render Isaiah 1:18 to read, Come now, and let us
his spiritual sons; they would not be subject to any reason together, says the LORD (KJ; AT; JP; RS), a more
accusation, since they were now persons fully reconciled to, appropriate and consistent translation is: Come, now, you
and at peace with, God.Compare Ac 13:38, 39; Ro 5:9, 10; people, and let us set matters straight [let us settle the
8:33. dispute, Ro] between us, says Jehovah. The fault
producing the disharmony lies entirely with man, not with
What, then, can we say of men who served God in times
God.Compare Eze 18:25, 29-32.
before Christs death? This would include men such as Abel,
who had witness borne to him that he was righteous, God This does not prevent God from mercifully taking the
bearing witness respecting his gifts; Enoch, who had the initiative in opening the way for reconciliation. He did so
witness that he had pleased God well; Abraham, who came through his Son. The apostle writes: For, indeed, Christ,
to be called Jehovahs friend; Moses, Joshua, Samuel, while we were yet weak, died for ungodly men at the
David, Daniel, John the Baptizer, and Christs disciples (to appointed time. For hardly will anyone die for a righteous
whom Jesus said prior to his death, the Father himself has man; indeed, for the good man, perhaps, someone even dares
affection for you). (Heb 11:4, 5; Jas 2:23; Da 9:23; Joh to die. But God recommends his own love [agapen] to us in
16:27) Jehovah dealt with all of these and blessed them. How, that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much
then, would such ones need any reconciling by means of more, therefore, since we have been declared righteous now
Christs death? by his blood, shall we be saved through him from wrath. For
if, when we were enemies, we became reconciled to God
These persons obviously enjoyed a measure of
through the death of his Son, much more, now that we have
reconciliation to God. Nevertheless, they, even as the rest of
become reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not
the world of mankind, were still sinners by inheritance and
only that, but we are also exulting in God through our Lord
had acknowledged themselves as such by the animal
Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the
sacrifices they offered. (Ro 3:9, 22, 23; Heb 10:1, 2) True,
reconciliation. (Ro 5:6-11) Jesus, who did not know sin,
some men have been more overt or gross in their sinning than
was made to be sin for us, dying as a human sin offering, to
others, even being openly rebellious; but sin is sin, whatever
relieve persons of the charge and penalty of sin. Relieved of
the degree or extent. Since all are sinners, all men descended
the charge of sin, such ones could thus appear righteous in
from Adam have, without exception, needed the
Gods eyes, hence become Gods righteousness by means of
reconciliation with God that his Sons sacrifice made
him [Jesus].2Co 5:18, 21.
possible.
God additionally displays his mercy and love by sending
Gods relative friendship toward men such as those
out ambassadors to sinful mankind. In ancient times
considered earlier was on the basis of the faith they showed,
ambassadors were sent out primarily in times of hostility
faith that embraced the belief that God would in his due time
(compare Lu 19:14), not peace, their mission frequently being
provide the means for relieving them completely of their
to see if war could be averted or to arrange terms for peace
sinful state. (Compare Heb 11:1, 2, 39, 40; Joh 1:29; 8:56; Ac
where a state of war prevailed. (Isa 33:7; Lu 14:31, 32; see
2:29-31.) Hence, the measure of reconciliation they enjoyed
AMBASSADOR.) God sends his Christian ambassadors to
was contingent upon Gods future provision of the ransom.
men to enable them to learn his terms for reconciliation and
As shown under the heading DECLARE RIGHTEOUS, God
to avail themselves of such. As the apostle writes: We are
counted, reckoned or credited, their faith as
therefore ambassadors substituting for Christ, as though God
righteousness, and on that basis, with the absolute certainty of
were making entreaty through us. As substitutes for Christ we
his own provision of a ransom in view, Jehovah could
beg: Become reconciled to God. (2Co 5:20) Such entreaty
provisionally have friendly relations with them without
does not signify any weakening of Gods position nor of his
violating his standards of perfect justice. (Ro 4:3, 9, 10, NW
opposition to wrongdoing; it is, instead, a merciful urging to
and KJ; also compare 3:25, 26; 4:17.) Nevertheless, the
the offenders to seek peace and escape the inevitable
proper demands of his justice must eventually be satisfied, so
consequence of Gods righteous anger toward all who persist
that the crediting would be covered by actual payment of
in going contrary to his holy will, destruction being the
the required ransom price. All of this exalts the importance of
certain end of such. (Compare Eze 33:11.) Even Christians
Christs position in Gods arrangement and demonstrates that,
must be careful not to accept the undeserved kindness of
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God and miss its purpose by failing to seek continually nations, on the other hand, were alienated from the state of
Gods favor and goodwill during the acceptable time and Israel and strangers to the covenants of the promise, and . . .
the day of salvation God mercifully provides, as Pauls had no hope and were without God in the world, for they
following words show.2Co 6:1, 2. had no recognized standing with him. (Eph 2:11, 12) In
harmony with the sacred secret regarding the Seed, God
Recognizing the need for reconciliation and accepting
nevertheless purposed to bring blessings for persons of all
Gods provision for reconciliation, namely, the sacrifice of
nations of the earth. (Ge 22:15-18) The means for doing this,
Gods Son, the individual must then repent of his sinful
Christ Jesus sacrifice, therefore opened the way for those of
course and convert, or turn around, from following the way of
the alienated non-Jewish nations to come to be near by the
the sinful world of mankind. By appealing to God on the
blood of the Christ. (Eph 2:13) Not only this, but that
basis of Christs ransom, forgiveness of sins and
sacrifice also removed the division between Jew and non-
reconciliation can be obtained, bringing seasons of
Jew, for it fulfilled the Law covenant and took it out of the
refreshing . . . from the person of Jehovah (Ac 3:18, 19) as
way, thereby allowing Christ to fully reconcile both peoples
well as peace of mind and heart. (Php 4:6, 7) No longer an
in one body to God through the torture stake, because he had
enemy under the wrath of God, one has, in effect, passed
killed off the enmity [the division produced by the Law
over from death to life. (Joh 3:16; 5:24) Thereafter the
covenant] by means of himself. Jew and non-Jew now
individual must retain Gods goodwill by calling upon him
would have the one approach to God through Christ Jesus,
in trueness, continuing in the faith, and not being shifted
and in course of time, non-Jews were brought into the new
away from the hope of the good news.Ps 145:18; Php 4:9;
covenant as Kingdom heirs with Christ.Eph 2:14-22; Ro
Col 1:22, 23.
8:16, 17; Heb 9:15.
In what sense has God reconciled a world to himself?
(Romans 5:18) So, then, as through one trespass the result to
The apostle Paul speaks of God by means of Christ men of all sorts was condemnation, so too through one act of
reconciling a world to himself, not reckoning to them their justification the result to men of all sorts is their being
trespasses. (2Co 5:19) This should not be misread as declared righteous for life.
meaning that all persons are automatically reconciled to God
by Jesus sacrifice, inasmuch as the apostle immediately goes (1 Timothy 2:5) For there is one God, and one mediator
on to describe the ambassadorial work of entreating men to between God and men, a man, Christ Jesus,
become reconciled to God. (2Co 5:20) In reality, the means
(Hebrews 9:22-26) Yes, according to the Law nearly all
was provided whereby all those of the world of mankind things are cleansed with blood, and unless blood is poured
willing to respond could gain reconciliation. Hence, Jesus out no forgiveness takes place. 23 Therefore, it was necessary
came to give his soul a ransom in exchange for many, and for the typical representations of the things in the heavens to
he that exercises faith in the Son has everlasting life; he that be cleansed by these means, but the heavenly things require
far better sacrifices. 24 For Christ did not enter into a holy
disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God place made with hands, which is a copy of the reality, but into
remains upon him.Mt 20:28; Joh 3:36; compare Ro heaven itself, so that he now appears before God on our
5:18, 19; 2Th 1:7, 8. behalf. 25 This was not done to offer himself often, as when
the high priest enters into the holy place from year to year
Nevertheless, Jehovah God purposed to gather all things with blood that is not his own. 26 Otherwise, he would have to
together again in the Christ, the things in the heavens and the suffer often from the founding of the world. But now he has
things on the earth. (Eph 1:10) Though a destruction of those manifested himself once for all time at the conclusion of the
systems of things to do away with sin through the sacrifice of
who refuse to set matters straight (Isa 1:18) with Jehovah himself.
God is required, the result will be a universe in total harmony
with God, and mankind will again rejoice in Gods friendship (Acts 10:43) To him all the prophets bear witness, that
and enjoy the full flow of his blessings as at the start in Eden. everyone putting faith in him receives forgiveness of sins
Re 21:1-4. through his name.
Jehovah God terminated his covenant relationship with (Ephesians 2:18) because through him we, both peoples,
Israel as a nation because of its unfaithfulness and its national have free access to the Father by one spirit.
rejection of his Son. (Mt 21:42, 43; Heb 8:7-13) Evidently the
apostle refers to this when saying that the casting of them (1 John 2:2) And he is a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins,
away meant reconciliation for the world (Ro 11:15), for as yet not for ours only but also for the whole worlds.
the context shows, the way was thereby opened for the world
outside the Jewish community or congregation. That is, the (Hebrews 7:25) So he is able also to save completely those
who are approaching God through him, because he is always
non-Jewish nations now had opportunity to be joined with a alive to plead for them.
faithful Jewish remnant in the new covenant as Gods new
nation, spiritual Israel.Compare Ro 11:5, 7, 11, 12, 15, 25. (John 16:23, 24) In that day you will ask me no question at
all. Most truly I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything,
As Gods covenant people, his special property (Ex he will give it to you in my name. 24 Until now you have not
19:5, 6; 1Ki 8:53; Ps 135:4), the Jewish people had enjoyed a asked for a single thing in my name. Ask and you will
measure of reconciliation to God, though still in need of full receive, so that your joy may be complete.
reconciliation by means of the foretold Redeemer, the
Messiah. (Isa 53:5-7, 11, 12; Da 9:24-26) The non-Jewish
122
(1 Peter 2:21) In fact, to this course you were called, because Jesus had to live in such a way as to make that truth become
even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to reality, fulfilling it by what he said and did, how he lived, and
follow his steps closely. how he died. Thus, he had to be the truth, in effect, the
embodiment of the truth, as he himself said he was.Joh
14:6.
Page 86 For this reason the apostle John could write that Jesus was
Unit 10 (a) full of undeserved kindness and truth and that, though the
Law was given through Moses, the undeserved kindness and
The Truth the truth came to be through Jesus Christ. (Joh 1:14, 17) By
(John 18:37) So Pilate said to him: Well, then, are you a means of his human birth, his presenting himself to God by
king? Jesus answered: You yourself are saying that I am a baptism in water, his three and a half years of public service
king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into
the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone in behalf of Gods Kingdom, his death in faithfulness to God,
who is on the side of the truth listens to my voice. his resurrection to heavenby all these historical events
Gods truth arrived, or came to be, that is, came to
(Luke 24:44) He then said to them: These are my words that realization. (Compare Joh 1:18; Col 2:17.) The whole career
I spoke to you while I was yet with you, that all the things of Jesus Christ was therefore a bearing witness to the truth,
written about me in the Law of Moses and in the Prophets to the things to which God had sworn. Jesus was thus no
and Psalms must be fulfilled.
(John 1:17) Because the Law was given through Moses, the shadow Messiah or Christ. He was the real one promised. He
undeserved kindness and the truth came to be through Jesus was no shadow King-Priest. He was, in substance and fact,
Christ. the true one that had been prefigured.Ro 15:8-12; compare
Ps 18:49; 117:1; De 32:43; Isa 11:10.
*** it-2 p. 60 Jesus Christ ***His Vital Place in Gods
Purpose. This truth was the truth that would set men free if they
Jehovah God saw fit to make his firstborn Son the central, or showed themselves to be on the side of the truth by
key, figure in the outworking of all His purposes (Joh 1:14- accepting Jesus role in Gods purpose. (Joh 8:32-36; 18:37)
18; Col 1:18-20; 2:8, 9), the focal point on which the light of To ignore Gods purpose concerning his Son, to build hopes
all prophecies would concentrate and from which their light
would radiate (1Pe 1:10-12; Re 19:10; Joh 1:3-9), the on any other foundation, to form conclusions regarding ones
solution to all the problems that Satans rebellion had raised life course on any other basis would be to believe a lie, to be
(Heb 2:5-9, 14, 15; 1Jo 3:8), and the foundation upon which deceived, to follow the leading of the father of lies, Gods
God would build all future arrangements for the eternal good Adversary. (Mt 7:24-27; Joh 8:42-47) It would mean to die
of His universal family in heaven and earth. (Eph 1:8-10;
2:20; 1Pe 2:4-8) Because of the vital role he thus plays in in ones sins. (Joh 8:23, 24) For this reason Jesus did not
Gods purpose, Jesus could say, rightly and without hold back from declaring his place in Gods purpose.
exaggeration: I am the way and the truth and the life. No one
comes to the Father except through me.Joh 14:6. True, he instructed his disciples, even with sternness, not
to broadcast his Messiahship to the public (Mt 16:20; Mr
*** it-2 p. 62 Jesus Christ *** 8:29, 30) and rarely referred to himself directly as the Christ
except when in privacy with them. (Mr 9:33, 38, 41; Lu
Bearing Witness to the Truth. To Pilates question, 9:20, 21; Joh 17:3) But he boldly and regularly drew attention
Well, then, are you a king?, Jesus replied: You yourself to the evidence in the prophecies and in his works that proved
are saying that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for he was the Christ. (Mt 22:41-46; Joh 5:31-39, 45-47; 7:25-
this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to 31) On the occasion of talking to a Samaritan woman at a
the truth. Everyone that is on the side of the truth listens to well, Jesus, tired out from the journey, identified himself to
my voice. (Joh 18:37; see LEGAL CASE [Jesus Trial].) As her, perhaps to excite curiosity among the townsfolk and
the Scriptures show, the truth to which he bore witness was draw them out from the town to him, which was the result.
not just truth in general. It was the all-important truth of what (Joh 4:6, 25-30) The mere claim of Messiahship would mean
Gods purposes were and are, truth based on the fundamental nothing if not accompanied by the evidence, and in the end,
fact of Gods sovereign will and His ability to fulfill that will. faith was required on the part of those seeing and hearing if
By his ministry Jesus revealed that truth, contained in the they were to accept the conclusion to which that evidence
sacred secret, as being Gods Kingdom with Jesus Christ, unerringly pointed.Lu 22:66-71; Joh 4:39-42; 10:24-27;
the son of David, serving as King-Priest on the throne. This 12:34-36.
was also the essence of the message proclaimed by angels
prior to and at the time of his birth in Bethlehem of Judea, the *** it-2 p. 692 Prophecy ***
city of David.Lu 1:32, 33; 2:10-14; 3:31. Since Christ Jesus is the One in whom all these prophecies
The accomplishment of his ministry in bearing witness to see realization, marking them all as true, it can be seen how
the truth came to be through Jesus Christ. For no matter
the truth required more of Jesus than merely talking, how many the promises of God are, they have become Yes by
preaching, and teaching. Besides shedding his heavenly glory means of him. (Joh 1:17; 2Co 1:20; compare Lu 18:31;
to be born as a human, he had to fulfill all the things 24:25, 26, 44-46.) Peter could rightly say of Jesus that all the
prophesied about him, including the shadows, or patterns, prophets bear witness to him.Ac 3:20-24; 10:43; compare
28:23.
contained in the Law covenant. (Col 2:16, 17; Heb 10:1) To
uphold the truth of his Fathers prophetic word and promises,

123
(2 Corinthians 1:20) For no matter how many the promises by Gods Adversary (see JEHOVAH [The supreme issue a
of God are, they have become yes by means of him. moral one]), and provided the means for redeeming obedient
Therefore, also through him is the Amen said to God, mankind from sin and death through the ransom sacrifice of
which brings him glory through us.
his Son. (Ga 4:4; 1Ti 3:16; Joh 14:30; 16:33; Mt 20:28)
(Romans 15:8) For I tell you that Christ became a minister of Thereby Jehovah God cleared away any uncertainty or
those who are circumcised in behalf of Gods truthfulness, so ambiguity regarding his purposes in the minds of his servants.
as to verify the promises He made to their forefathers, For that reason the apostle says that no matter how many the
promises of God are, they have become Yes by means of
(Colossians 2:17) Those things are a shadow of the things to [Jesus Christ].2Co 1:19-22.
come, but the reality belongs to the Christ.
The sacred secret did not simply involve an
(Revelation 19:10) At that I fell down before his feet to identification of Gods Son as such. Rather it involved the
worship him. But he tells me: Be careful! Do not do that! I role he was assigned in the framework of Gods foreordained
am only a fellow slave of you and of your brothers who have purpose, and the revelation and execution of that purpose
the work of witnessing concerning Jesus. Worship God! For
the witness concerning Jesus is what inspires prophecy. through Jesus Christ. This purpose, so long a secret, was for
an administration at the full limit of the appointed times,
*** it-2 p. 60 Jesus Christ *** namely, to gather all things together again in the Christ, the
things in the heavens and the things on the earth.Eph
Jesus had been Gods Son from the time of his birth, even 1:9, 10.
as the perfect Adam had been the son of God. (Lu 3:38;
1:35) The angels had identified Jesus as Gods Son from his The sacred secret bound up in Christ Jesus has as one of
birth onward. So, when, after Jesus baptism, his Fathers its aspects his heading a new heavenly government; its
voice was heard saying, You are my Son, the beloved; I have membership is to be formed of persons (Jews and non-Jews)
approved you (Mr 1:11), it seems reasonable that this taken from among earths population, and its domain is to
declaration accompanying the anointing flow of Gods spirit embrace both heaven and earth. Thus, in the vision at Daniel
was more than just an acknowledgment of Jesus identity. The 7:13, 14, one like a son of man (a title later applied
evidence is that Jesus was then begotten or brought forth by frequently to ChristMt 12:40; 24:30; Lu 17:26; compare Re
God as his spiritual Son, born again, as it were, with the 14:14) appears in Jehovahs heavenly courts and is given
right to receive life once more as a spirit Son of God in the rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples, national
heavens.Compare Joh 3:3-6; 6:51; 10:17, 18; see groups and languages should all serve even him. The same
BAPTISM; ONLY-BEGOTTEN. vision, however, shows that the holy ones of the Supreme
One are also to share with this son of man in his
His Vital Place in Gods Purpose. Jehovah God saw fit Kingdom, rulership, and grandeur. (Da 7:27) While Jesus was
to make his firstborn Son the central, or key, figure in the on earth, he selected from among his disciples the first
outworking of all His purposes (Joh 1:14-18; Col 1:18-20; prospective members of his Kingdom government and, after
2:8, 9), the focal point on which the light of all prophecies they had stuck with him in his trials, covenanted with them
would concentrate and from which their light would radiate for a Kingdom, praying to his Father for their sanctification
(1Pe 1:10-12; Re 19:10; Joh 1:3-9), the solution to all the (or being made holy ones) and requesting that where I am,
problems that Satans rebellion had raised (Heb 2:5-9, 14, 15; they also may be with me, in order to behold my glory that
1Jo 3:8), and the foundation upon which God would build all you have given me. (Lu 22:28, 29; Joh 17:5, 17, 24)
future arrangements for the eternal good of His universal Because of being thus united with Christ, the Christian
family in heaven and earth. (Eph 1:8-10; 2:20; 1Pe 2:4-8) congregation also plays a part in the sacred secret, as is
Because of the vital role he thus plays in Gods purpose, later expressed by the inspired apostle.Eph 3:1-11; 5:32;
Jesus could say, rightly and without exaggeration: I am the Col 1:26, 27; see SACRED SECRET.
way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through me.Joh 14:6. (Genesis 3:15) And I will put enmity between you and the
The sacred secret. Gods purpose as revealed in Jesus woman and between your offspring and her offspring. He will
crush your head, and you will strike him in the heel.
Christ remained a sacred secret [or, mystery] . . . kept in
silence for long-lasting times. (Ro 16:25-27) For over 4,000 (Genesis 22:16-18) saying: By myself I swear, declares
years, since the rebellion in Eden, men of faith had awaited Jehovah, that because you have done this and you have not
the fulfillment of Gods promise of a seed to bruise the withheld your son, your only one, 17 I will surely bless you
head of the serpentlike Adversary and thereby to bring relief and I will surely multiply your offspring like the stars of the
heavens and like the grains of sand on the seashore, and your
to mankind. (Ge 3:15) For nearly 2,000 years they had hoped offspring will take possession of the gate of his enemies.
in Jehovahs covenant with Abraham for a seed who would 18
And by means of your offspring all nations of the earth will
take possession of the gate of his enemies and by means of obtain a blessing for themselves because you have listened to
whom all nations of the earth would bless themselves.Ge my voice.
22:15-18.
(Daniel 7:13, 14) I kept watching in the visions of the night,
Finally, when the full limit of the time arrived, God sent and look! with the clouds of the heavens, someone like a son
forth his Son and through him revealed the meaning of the of man was coming; and he gained access to the Ancient of
sacred secret, gave the definitive answer to the issue raised Days, and they brought him up close before that One. 14 And
to him there were given rulership, honor, and a kingdom, that
124
the peoples, nations, and language groups should all serve (Ephesians 1:7) By means of him we have the release by
him. His rulership is an everlasting rulership that will not ransom through the blood of that one, yes, the forgiveness of
pass away, and his kingdom will not be destroyed. our trespasses, according to the riches of his undeserved
kindness.
(Luke 8:1) Shortly afterward he traveled from city to city and
from village to village, preaching and declaring the good (Hebrews 8:1-3) Now this is the main point of what we are
news of the Kingdom of God. And the Twelve were with him, saying: We have such a high priest as this, and he has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the
(Revelation 19:10) At that I fell down before his feet to heavens, 2 a minister of the holy place and of the true tent,
worship him. But he tells me: Be careful! Do not do that! I which Jehovah set up, and not man. 3 For every high priest is
am only a fellow slave of you and of your brothers who have appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices; so it was
the work of witnessing concerning Jesus. Worship God! For necessary for this one also to have something to offer.
the witness concerning Jesus is what inspires prophecy.
*** it-2 p. 61 Jesus Christ ***
Chief Agent of life. As an expression of his Fathers
*** it-2 p. 691 Prophecy ***In what way did the bearing undeserved kindness, Christ Jesus laid down his perfect
witness to Jesus inspire prophesying?
In the apostle Johns vision he was told by an angel that the human life in sacrifice. This made possible the union of
bearing witness to Jesus is what inspires [literally, is the Christs chosen followers with him in his heavenly reign and
spirit of] prophesying. (Re 19:10) The apostle Paul calls also made possible the arrangement for earthly subjects of his
Christ the sacred secret of God and says that carefully Kingdom rule. (Mt 6:10; Joh 3:16; Eph 1:7; Heb 2:5; see
concealed in him are all the treasures of wisdom and of
knowledge. (Col 2:2, 3) This is because Jehovah God RANSOM.) He thereby became the Chief Agent [Prince,
assigned to his Son the key role in the outworking of Gods KJ; JB] of life for all mankind. (Ac 3:15) The Greek term
grand purpose to sanctify His name and restore earth and its here used means, basically, chief leader, a related word
inhabitants to their proper place in His arrangement of things, being applied to Moses (Ac 7:27, 35) as ruler in Israel.
doing this by means of an administration at the full limit of
the appointed times, namely, to gather all things together Hence, as the chief leader or pioneer of Life (Mo),
again in the Christ, the things in the heavens and the things Jesus Christ introduced a new and essential element for
on the earth. (Eph 1:9, 10; compare 1Co 15:24, 25.) Since
the fulfillment of Gods great purpose is all bound up in Jesus gaining eternal life in the sense of being an intermediary or
(compare Col 1:19, 20), then all prophecy, that is, all inspired go-between, but he is such in an administrative sense as well.
messages from God proclaimed by his servants, pointed He is Gods High Priest who can effect full cleansing from
toward his Son. Thus, as Revelation 19:10 states, the entire sin and liberation from sins death-dealing effects (Heb
spirit (the whole inclination, intent, and purpose) of
prophecy was to bear witness to Jesus, the one Jehovah 3:1, 2; 4:14; 7:23-25; 8:1-3); he is the appointed Judge into
would make the way and the truth and the life. (Joh 14:6) whose hands all judgment is committed, so that he
This would be true not only of prophecy that preceded Jesus judiciously administers his ransom benefits to individuals
earthly ministry but also of prophecy subsequent thereto. among mankind according to their worthiness to live under
Ac 2:16-36.
his kingship (Joh 5:22-27; Ac 10:42, 43); through him the
resurrection of the dead also comes. (Joh 5:28, 29; 6:39, 40)
Page 87
Unit 10 (a) Because Jehovah God so ordained to use his Son, there is no
salvation in anyone else, for there is not another name under
The Life heaven that has been given among men by which we must get
(Matthew 20:28) Just as the Son of man came, not to be saved.Ac 4:12; compare 1Jo 5:11-13.
ministered to, but to minister and to give his life as a ransom
in exchange for many. Since this aspect of Jesus authority is also embraced in
his name, his disciples, as representatives of the Chief
(1 Peter 1:18, 19) For you know that it was not with Agent of life, by that name could heal persons of their
corruptible things, with silver or gold, that you were set free infirmities resulting from inherited sin and they could even
from your futile way of life handed down to you by your raise the dead.Ac 3:6, 15, 16; 4:7-11; 9:36-41; 20:7-12.
forefathers. 19 But it was with precious blood, like that of an
unblemished and spotless lamb, that of Christ.
(Revelation 7:9, 10) After this I saw, and look! a great
(Acts 3:15) whereas you killed the Chief Agent of life. But crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations
God raised him up from the dead, of which fact we are and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the
witnesses. throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there
(Acts 10:42) Also, he ordered us to preach to the people and were palm branches in their hands. 10 And they keep shouting
to give a thorough witness that this is the one decreed by God with a loud voice, saying: Salvation we owe to our God,
to be judge of the living and the dead.
who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.
(John 6:39, 40) This is the will of him who sent me, that I (Acts 4:10) let it be known to all of you and to all the people
should lose none out of all those whom he has given me, but of Israel that in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene,
that I should resurrect them on the last day. 40 For this is the whom you executed on a stake but whom God raised up from
will of my Father, that everyone who recognizes the Son and the dead, by means of him this man stands here healthy in
exercises faith in him should have everlasting life, and I will
resurrect him on the last day. front of you.
(Acts 4:12) Furthermore, there is no salvation in anyone else,
for there is no other name under heaven that has been given
125
among men by which we must get saved. will walk on your way in safety, And your foot will never
stumble.
Additional Biblical Titles Applied to Jesus (Proverbs 4:7) Wisdom is the most important thing, so
(2 Corinthians 1:19, 20) For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, acquire wisdom, And with all you acquire, acquire
who was preached among you through us, that is, through me understanding.
and Silvanus and Timothy, did not become yes and yet
no, but yes has become yes in his case. 20 For no matter
how many the promises of God are, they have become yes
by means of him. Therefore, also through him is the Amen *** w02 4/15 pp. 18-23 Guide Your Steps by Godly
said to God, which brings him glory through us. Principles ***

Guide Your Steps by Godly Principles


(Isaiah 9:6) For a child has been born to us, A son has been [Jehovah is] teaching you to benefit yourself.ISAIAH
given to us; And the rulership will rest on his shoulder. His 48:17.AS SCIENTISTS labor to unlock the secrets of the
name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, universe, they are amazed by the tremendous amount of
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. energy that is packed in the cosmos around us. Our suna
medium-sized starproduces as much energy as 100 billion
(Hebrews 3:1) Consequently, holy brothers, partakers of the hydrogen bombs exploding every second. The Creator can
heavenly calling, consider the apostle and high priest whom control and direct such massive heavenly bodies by his sheer
we acknowledgeJesus. power. (Job 38:32; Isaiah 40:26) What about us humans,
gifted with free will, moral capacity, reason, and the potential
(Hebrews 9:13, 14) For if the blood of goats and of bulls and for spirituality? In what way has our Maker seen fit to lead
the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who have been us? He lovingly guides us by his perfect laws and lofty
defiled sanctifies for the cleansing of the flesh, 14 how much principles, in conjunction with our well-trained conscience.
more will the blood of the Christ, who through an everlasting 2 Samuel 22:31; Romans 2:14, 15.
spirit offered himself without blemish to God, cleanse our
consciences from dead works so that we may render sacred 2 God finds delight in intelligent creatures who choose to
service to the living God? obey him. (Proverbs 27:11) Instead of programming us to
submit blindly as mindless robots, Jehovah endowed us with
(Hebrews 9:25, 26) This was not done to offer himself often, free will so that we can make informed decisions to do what
as when the high priest enters into the holy place from year to is right.Hebrews 5:14.
year with blood that is not his own. 26 Otherwise, he would
have to suffer often from the founding of the world. But now 3 Jesus, who perfectly reflected his Father, said to his
he has manifested himself once for all time at the conclusion disciples: You are my friends if you do what I am
of the systems of things to do away with sin through the commanding you. I no longer call you slaves. (John
sacrifice of himself. 15:14, 15) In ancient times, a slave had little choice but to
obey the orders of his master. On the other hand, friendship is
(Revelation 17:14) These will battle with the Lamb, but forged by the display of qualities that appeal to the heart. We
because he is Lord of lords and King of kings, the Lamb will can become Jehovahs friends. (James 2:23) This friendship
conquer them. Also, those with him who are called and is strengthened by mutual love. Jesus linked obedience to
chosen and faithful will do so. God with love when he said: If anyone loves me, he will
observe my word, and my Father will love him. (John 14:23)
To that endand to guide us safelyJehovah invites us to
(Isaiah 9:6) For a child has been born to us, A son has been live by his principles.
given to us; And the rulership will rest on his shoulder. His
name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. Godly Principles
4 What are principles? A principle is defined as a general or
(Isaiah 9:6) For a child has been born to us, A son has been fundamental truth: a comprehensive and fundamental law,
given to us; And the rulership will rest on his shoulder. His doctrine, or assumption on which others are based or from
name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, which others are derived. (Websters Third New
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. International Dictionary) A careful study of the Bible reveals
that our heavenly Father provides fundamental directives that
cover a variety of situations and aspects of life. He does this
(John 6:68) Simon Peter answered him: Lord, whom shall with our eternal benefit in view. That is in line with what wise
we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life. King Solomon wrote: Hear, my son, and accept my sayings.
Then for you the years of life will become many. I will
instruct you even in the way of wisdom; I will cause you to
Page 88 Unit 10 (b) tread in the tracks of uprightness. (Proverbs 4:10, 11) The
Think in Terms of Bible Principles key principles provided by Jehovah have a bearing on our
relationship with him and with fellow humans, our worship,
and our everyday lives. (Psalm 1:1) Let us consider some of
j those fundamental principles.
OPENING DISCUSSION
(Proverbs 3:6) In all your ways take notice of him, And he 5 Regarding our relationship with Jehovah, Jesus stated: You
will make your paths straight. must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with
your whole soul and with your whole mind. (Matthew
(Proverbs 3:21-23) My son, do not lose sight of them. 22:37) Additionally, God provides principles related to our
Safeguard practical wisdom and thinking ability; 22 They will dealings with fellow humans, such as the Golden Rule: All
give you life And be an adornment for your neck; 23 Then you things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also
must likewise do to them. (Matthew 7:12; Galatians 6:10;
126
Titus 3:2) With respect to worship, we are admonished: Let 10 You have probably seen people who are inclined to obey
us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, not laws grudgingly, out of fear of a penalty. Respect for
forsaking the gathering of ourselves together. (Hebrews principles precludes such an attitude. The very nature of
10:24, 25) As to everyday aspects of our life, the apostle Paul principles moves those governed by them to respond from the
says: Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything heart. In fact, most principles do not involve an immediate
else, do all things for Gods glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31) punishment for those not conforming to them. This gives us
There are countless other principles in Gods Word. the opportunity to reveal why we obey Jehovah, what our
heart motivation is. We find an example in Josephs refusing
6 Principles are living, essential truths, and wise Christians the immoral advances of Potiphars wife. Though Jehovah
learn to love them. Jehovah inspired Solomon to write: To had not yet given a written law against adultery and no divine
my words do pay attention. To my sayings incline your ear. sentence was prescribed for having relations with another
May they not get away from your eyes. Keep them in the mans wife, Joseph was aware of the principles of God-
midst of your heart. For they are life to those finding them ordained marital faithfulness. (Genesis 2:24; 12:18-20) We
and health to all their flesh. (Proverbs 4:20-22) How do can see from his response that such principles powerfully
principles differ from laws? Principles provide the basis for affected him: How could I commit this great badness and
laws. Rules, which tend to be specific, may be for some actually sin against God?Genesis 39:9.
particular time or situation, but principles are timeless.
(Psalm 119:111) Divine principles do not become outdated or 11 Today, Christians want to be guided by Jehovahs
pass away. The inspired words of the prophet Isaiah prove principles when it comes to personal matters, such as choice
true: The green grass has dried up, the blossom has of associates, entertainment, music, and reading material.
withered; but as for the word of our God, it will last to time (1 Corinthians 15:33; Philippians 4:8) As we grow in
indefinite.Isaiah 40:8. knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of Jehovah and
his standards, our conscience, our moral sense, will help us to
Think and Act on the Basis of Principles apply divine principles under whatever circumstances we
7 Time and again, the word of our God encourages us to face, even in very private matters. Guided by Bible
think and act on the basis of principles. When Jesus was principles, we will not look for loopholes in Gods laws; nor
asked to summarize the Law, he made two succinct will we imitate those who try to see how far they can go
statementsone emphasizing love for Jehovah, the other without actually breaking a certain law. We realize that such
stressing love for fellowman. (Matthew 22:37-40) In doing thinking is self-defeating and harmful.James 1:22-25.
so, Jesus partially quoted from an earlier brief summary of
basic tenets of the Mosaic Law, stated at Deuteronomy 6:4, 5: 12 Mature Christians recognize that a key to following godly
Jehovah our God is one Jehovah. And you must love principles is wanting to know how Jehovah feels about a
Jehovah your God with all your heart and all your soul and all matter. O you lovers of Jehovah, exhorts the psalmist, hate
your vital force. Evidently, Jesus also had in mind Gods what is bad. (Psalm 97:10) Listing some of the things that
directive found at Leviticus 19:18. In the clear, terse, and God would classify as bad, Proverbs 6:16-19 says: There are
powerful ending of the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomons six things that Jehovah does hate; yes, seven are things
words epitomize a host of divine laws: The conclusion of the detestable to his soul: lofty eyes, a false tongue, and hands
matter, everything having been heard, is: Fear the true God that are shedding innocent blood, a heart fabricating hurtful
and keep his commandments. For this is the whole obligation schemes, feet that are in a hurry to run to badness, a false
of man. For the true God himself will bring every sort of witness that launches forth lies, and anyone sending forth
work into the judgment in relation to every hidden thing, as to contentions among brothers. When a desire to reflect how
whether it is good or bad.Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; Micah Jehovah feels on such fundamentals governs our lives, living
6:8. in accord with principles becomes a consistent practice.
Jeremiah 22:16.
8 Having a firm grasp of such basic principles can help us to
understand and apply more specific directives. Furthermore, Good Motive Is Needed
if we do not thoroughly comprehend and accept basic 13 Knowing and applying principles also protects us from the
principles, we might not be able to make sound decisions and snare of empty, formal worship. There is a difference between
our faith may be easily shaken. (Ephesians 4:14) If we fix following principles and legalistically obeying rules. Jesus
such principles in our mind and heart, we will be ready to use clearly showed this in the Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew
them in making decisions. When we apply them with 5:17-48) Remember that Jesus listeners were Jews, so their
understanding, they bring success.Joshua 1:8; Proverbs conduct should have been governed by the Mosaic Law. But
4:1-9. in reality they had a distorted view of the Law. They had
come to stress the letter of the Law rather than its spirit. And
9 Discerning and applying Bible principles is not as easy as they emphasized their traditions, putting such above the
following a set of laws. As imperfect humans we may shy teaching of God. (Matthew 12:9-12; 15:1-9) As a
away from the effort required to reason on principles. We consequence, the people in general were not taught to think in
may prefer the convenience of a rule when we are faced with terms of principles.
a decision or a dilemma. Sometimes we may seek direction
from a mature Christianmaybe a congregation elder 14 In contrast, Jesus included in the Sermon on the Mount
expecting to receive a specific rule that applies to our principles in five areas of morality: anger, marriage and
situation. Yet, the Bible or Bible-based publications may not divorce, promises, revenge, and love and hate. In each case,
provide a definite rule, and even if we are given one, it might Jesus showed the benefit of following a principle. Thus Jesus
not be a blanket guide for all times and under all raised the moral standard for his followers. For example, on
circumstances. You may remember that a certain man asked the matter of adultery, he gave us a principle that guards not
Jesus: Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with only our acts but also our thoughts and desires: Everyone
me. Instead of quickly providing a ruling to resolve disputes that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for
between siblings, Jesus gave him a more general principle: her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Keep your eyes open and guard against every sort of Matthew 5:28.
covetousness. Thus Jesus provided a guideline that was
useful then and remains so now.Luke 12:13-15. 15 This example illustrates that we should never lose sight of
the intent and spirit of Jehovahs principles. We should

127
certainly not try to earn Gods favor through moral sent the money because Wilson was about to be laid off that
formalism. Jesus exposed the fallacy of such an attitude by day. However, applying Bible principles on honesty, Wilson
pointing to Gods mercy and love. (Matthew 12:7; Luke 6:1- gave the money back to the director. Surprised and
11) Following Bible principles, we will avoid trying to live impressed, the director not only offered Wilson permanent
(or demand others to live) by an extensive and rigid set of dos employment immediately but also promoted him to be a
and donts that go beyond the teachings of the Bible. We will senior member of the company staff.Ephesians 4:28.
be more concerned about principles of love and obedience
toward God than about the outside appearance of worship. [Box on page 21] Rukia is an Albanian woman in her 60s.
Luke 11:42.Happy Results Because of a family disagreement, she did not speak to her
brother for over 17 years. She began studying the Bible with
16 As we strive to obey Jehovah, it is important to realize that Jehovahs Witnesses and learned that true Christians have to
his laws are based on key principles. For example, Christians be at peace with others, not holding grudges. She prayed all
are to avoid idolatry, sexual immorality, and the misuse of night, and with her heart pounding, she walked to her
blood. (Acts 15:28, 29) What underlies the Christian stand on brothers house. Her niece opened the door. Surprised, she
those issues? God deserves our exclusive devotion; we should asked Rukia: Who died? What are you doing here? Rukia
be faithful to our mate; and Jehovah is the Life-Giver. asked to see her brother. She calmly explained that learning
(Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:5; Psalm 36:9) Appreciating these about Bible principles and about Jehovah had motivated her
underlying principles makes it easier to accept and follow the to make peace with her brother. After tears and hugs, they
related laws. celebrated this special reunion!Romans 12:17, 18.
[Picture on page 23]Matthew 5:27, 28[Picture on
17 As we discern the underlying principles and apply them, page 23]Matthew 5:3[Picture on page 23]Matthew
we realize that they are for our good. The spiritual blessings 5:24[Picture on page 23]When he saw the crowds he went
enjoyed by Gods people are often accompanied by tangible up into the mountain; and after he sat down his disciples
benefits. For example, those who abstain from smoking, who came to him; and he opened his mouth and began teaching
live moral lives, and who respect the sanctity of blood avoid them.MATTHEW 5:1, 2
falling victim to certain diseases. Similarly, living in harmony
with divine truth may benefit us in economic, social, or *** w02 2/15 pp. 4-7 Godly Principles Can Benefit You
domestic ways. Any such tangible benefits prove the value of ***
Jehovahs standards, that they truly are practical. But gaining
such practical advantages is not in itself the main reason for Godly Principles Can Benefit You
applying Gods principles. True Christians obey Jehovah
because they love him, because he deserves their worship, YOU are no doubt aware that animals are governed by
and because it is the right thing to do.Revelation 4:11. instinct. Many machines are designed to obey instructions.
But humans were actually created to be guided by principles.
18 Letting our life be guided by Bible principles leads to a How can you be sure of that? Well, Jehovah, the Originator of
superior way of life, which in itself may attract others to the
way of God. Most important, our life course honors Jehovah. all righteous principles, announced when he made the first
We realize that Jehovah is really a loving God who wants the humans: Let us make man in our image, according to our
best for us. When we make decisions in accord with Bible likeness. The Creator is a spirit; he does not have a physical
principles and see how Jehovah blesses us, we come to feel body as we do, so we are in his image in that we can reflect
even closer to him. Yes, we further develop a loving
relationship with our heavenly Father. his personality, displaying a measure of his fine qualities.
Humans have the capacity to chart their lives according to
Do You Recall? principles, that is, according to what they believe to be a code
What is a principle? of right action. Jehovah has had many of these principles
How are principles distinguished from laws? recorded in his Word.Genesis 1:26; John 4:24; 17:17.
Why is it beneficial for us to think and act on the basis of
principles?[Study Questions] 1. How does the Creator lead But the Bible contains hundreds of principles, one might
humans?2, 3. In what kind of obedience does God find say. I cannot hope to know them all. True. Consider this fact
delight? 4. How would you describe principles? 5. Give though: While all godly principles are beneficial, some carry
examples of some fundamental principles. 6. How are more weight than others. You can see that from Matthew
principles distinguished from laws? 7. How does Gods Word
encourage us to think and act on the basis of principles? 8. 22:37-39, where Jesus showed that among the
Why is it a protection to have a firm grasp of basic Bible commandments and corresponding principles of the Mosaic
principles? 9. Why is it not always easy to discern and apply Law, some were more important than others.
Bible principles?10. How does conducting ourselves in
harmony with principles reveal the motives of our heart?11. Which are the weightier principles? The key principles of
In what areas do Christians want to be guided by Jehovahs the Bible are those that have a direct bearing upon our
principles?12. What is a key to being guided by godly
principles?13. What type of thinking did Jesus stress in his relationship with Jehovah. If we take these to heart, the
Sermon on the Mount?14. How did Jesus help his listeners to Creator becomes the prime influence on our moral compass.
think on the basis of principles?15. How can we avoid any Additionally, there are principles that affect our relationships
tendency to be legalistic?16. Give examples of the principles with other people. Applying these will help us withstand me-
behind some Bible directives.17. What good results can come ism, however it may be designated.
from perceiving and applying Bible principles?18. If we want
to be successful Christians, what should guide our life? Let us start with one of the most important truths in the
Bible. What is that truth, and how does it affect us?
[Box on page 20] Wilson, a Christian from Ghana, was
notified that in a few days, he would be fired from his job. On The Most High Over All the Earth
his final day at work, he was assigned to wash the private car
of the managing director of the company. When Wilson found The Holy Scriptures make it clear that Jehovah is our
a sum of money in the car, his superior told him that God had Grand Creator, God Almighty. He can never be equaled or
128
supplanted. This is a key truth recorded in the Bible. others are superior to you. Thus you will be keeping an
Genesis 17:1; Ecclesiastes 12:1. eye, not in personal interest upon just your own matters, but
also in personal interest upon those of the others.
One of the writers of the book of Psalms noted about
Jehovah: You alone are the Most High over all the earth. Someone who had a healthy attitude about himself and
Ancient King David said: Yours is the kingdom, O Jehovah, who made a sound appraisal of his own worth, was Gideon, a
the One also lifting yourself up as head over all. And the judge among the ancient Hebrews. He did not seek to be
renowned prophet Jeremiah was moved to record: In no way leader of Israel. When he was designated to fill that role,
is there anyone like you, O Jehovah. You are great, and your however, Gideon called attention to his unworthiness. My
name is great in mightiness.Psalm 83:18; 1 Chronicles thousand is the least in Manasseh, and I am the smallest in
29:11; Jeremiah 10:6. my fathers house, he explained.Judges 6:12-16.
How should we apply those truths about God in everyday Moreover, after Jehovah gave a victory to Gideon, men of
life? Ephraim picked a quarrel with him. How did Gideon react?
Had his own importance been inflated by the triumph? No.
It is clear who should really be preeminent in our lives
He averted disaster by giving a mild reply. What have I been
our Creator and Life-Giver. Would it not be fitting, then, to
able to do in comparison with you? Gideon was lowly in
resist any tendency to draw attention to ourselvesa
mind.Judges 8:1-3.
tendency that may be stronger in some than in others? A wise
guiding principle is to do all things for Gods glory. Granted, the events involving Gideon occurred a long
(1 Corinthians 10:31) The prophet Daniel set a fine example time ago. Still, there is value in considering the account. You
in this regard. can see that Gideon had an attitude quite different from what
is so common today, and he lived in accord with it, to his
The historical record tells us that King Nebuchadnezzar of
benefit.
Babylon was once agitated by a dream and demanded to
know its meaning. Whereas everyone else was baffled, The prevailing attitude that focuses on self can distort our
Daniel accurately told the king what he wanted to know. Did view of worth. Bible principles correct that distortion,
Daniel take credit for this? No, he gave glory to God in the teaching us our true value in relation to the Creator and to
heavens who is a Revealer of secrets. Daniel went on: It is others.
not through any wisdom that exists in me more than in any
By heeding Bible principles, we rise above the mood of
others alive that this secret is revealed to me. Daniel was a
the moment. We are no longer swayed by feelings or
man of principle. No wonder that in the book of Daniel, he is
personalities. The more we learn about righteous principles,
described three times as being very desirable in Gods eyes.
the better acquainted we become with their Originator. Yes,
Daniel 2:28, 30; 9:23; 10:11, 19.
taking special note of godly principles when reading the
You will be benefited when you imitate Daniel. In Bible is well worth the effort.See box.
following Daniels example, the decisive factor is motive.
Jehovah has made humans higher than animals, which are
Who should get the honor for what you do? Regardless of
moved primarily by instinct. Following Gods will involves
your situation, you have the ability to act in harmony with
applying divine principles. We thus can keep our moral
this vitally important Bible principleJehovah is the
compass in good order, a compass that will direct us into a
Sovereign Lord. Your doing so will make you very
new system of Gods making. The Bible gives us reason to
desirable in his eyes.
expect very soon an earth-wide new system in which
Let us now consider two basic principles that can guide us righteousness is to dwell.2 Peter 3:13.
in the field of human relations. In the face of the widespread
[Box/Picture on page 6]
emphasis on self, this area of life is especially challenging.
Some Helpful Bible Principles
With Lowliness of Mind Within the family:
Those who put themselves first are rarely satisfied. Most Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that
want an ever better life, and they want it now. For them, of the other person.1 Corinthians 10:24.
modesty is a type of weakness. They consider patience to be
Love . . . does not look for its own interests.
something that only others should display. When it comes to
1 Corinthians 13:4, 5.
their getting ahead, anything goes. Do you think that you
have any alternative to behaving as they do? Let each one of you individually so love his wife as he does
himself.Ephesians 5:33.
Servants of God encounter that attitude daily, but it should
not rub off on them. Mature Christians accept the principle You wives, be in subjection to your husbands.Colossians
that it is not the one who recommends himself [who] is 3:18.
approved, but the man whom Jehovah recommends.
Listen to your father who caused your birth, and do not
2 Corinthians 10:18.
despise your mother just because she has grown old.
Applying the principle at Philippians 2:3, 4 will help. That Proverbs 23:22.
text encourages you to do nothing out of contentiousness or
At school, at work, or in business:
out of egotism, but with lowliness of mind [consider] that the
129
A cheating pair of scales is something detestable . . . The he that is having dealings with the stupid ones will fare
wicked one is making false wages.Proverbs 11:1, 18. badly.Proverbs 13:20.
Do not come to be among heavy drinkers of wine.
Let the stealer steal no more, but rather let him do hard
Proverbs 23:20.
work.Ephesians 4:28.
Do not have companionship with anyone given to
If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat. anger.Proverbs 22:24.
2 Thessalonians 3:10.
Building a stable marriage
Whatever you are doing, work at it whole-souled as to Let each one of you individually so love his wife as he
Jehovah.Colossians 3:23. does himself; on the other hand, the wife should have deep
respect for her husband.Ephesians 5:33.
We wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things. Clothe yourselves with the tender affections of
Hebrews 13:18. compassion, kindness, lowliness of mind, mildness, and long-
Attitude toward wealth: suffering. Continue putting up with one another and forgiving
one another freely.Colossians 3:12, 13.
He that is hastening to gain riches will not remain
innocent.Proverbs 28:20. Helping children
Train up a boy according to the way for him; even when he
A mere lover of silver will not be satisfied with silver. grows old he will not turn aside from it.Proverbs 22:6.
Ecclesiastes 5:10. You, fathers, do not be irritating your children, but go on
Assessing ones own worth: bringing them up in the discipline and mental-regulating of
Jehovah.Ephesians 6:4.
For people to search out their own glory, is it glory?
Proverbs 25:27. Avoiding quarrels
An answer, when mild, turns away rage, but a word
May a stranger, and not your own mouth, praise you. causing pain makes anger to come up.Proverbs 15:1.
Proverbs 27:2. In showing honor to one another take the lead.Romans
I tell everyone there among you not to think more of himself 12:10.
than it is necessary to think.Romans 12:3. Even among friends, business disputes are often avoided by
making written agreements. Thus, Gods servant Jeremiah
If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he is wrote: I wrote in a deed and affixed the seal and took
deceiving his own mind.Galatians 6:3. witnesses as I went weighing the money in the scales.
[Picture on page 5] Jeremiah 32:10.
Daniel gave due credit to God Cultivating a positive attitude
[Picture on page 7] Whatever things are true, . . . lovable, . . . well spoken of,
Dealing with others in line with godly principles contributes whatever virtue there is and whatever praiseworthy thing
to pleasant relations and happiness there is, continue considering these things.Philippians 4:8.
The Bible discourages dwelling on negative thoughts and
[Picture Credit Line on page 7] censures complainers about their lot in life. It says:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C./Robert Rejoice in the hope.Jude 4, 16; Romans 12:12.
Bridges
Applying these fine principles will not only enable us to
enjoy peace and contentment now but also help us to measure
QUESTION OUTLINE up to Gods requirements and receive his blessing. The Bible
Recongnizing Prinicples and How They Work says: The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and
they will reside forever upon it.Psalm 37:29.
*** w09 6/1 Why the Bible Is Practical for Our Day ***
[Pictures on page 5]
[Box/Picture on page 7] Akinori when he was a businessman (left) and with his wife
Practical Advice for Today happily sharing Bible truth today
The Bible provides basic but practical principles that can
guide us in every aspect of modern life. Here are some W02 4/15 p. 19 pars. 4-6 see above extraction same page
examples:
(Leviticus 17:14) For the life of every sort of flesh is its
Enjoying good relationships with others blood, because the life is in it. Consequently, I said to the
All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you Israelites: You must not eat the blood of any sort of flesh
also must likewise do to them.Matthew 7:12. because the life of every sort of flesh is its blood. Anyone
He that conducts himself as a lesser one among all of you eating it will be cut off.
is the one that is great.Luke 9:48.
Follow the course of hospitality.Romans 12:13. Page 89 Unit 10 (b)

Overcoming destructive habits PRINCIPLE:


He that is walking with wise persons will become wise, but
130
(Leviticus 17:11) For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and a holy sabbath to Jehovah, during which each one should
I myself have given it on the altar for you to make atonement keep sitting in his own place. (Exodus 16:13-30) One of the
for yourselves, because it is the blood that makes atonement Ten Commandments mandated that no work at all was to be
by means of the life in it. done on the Sabbath. The day was sacred. The penalty for not
observing it was death.Exodus 20:8-11; Numbers 15:32-
(Psalm 36:9) With you is the source of life; By your light we 36.
can see light.
8 The Sabbath law showed Jehovahs concern for both the
(Ezekiel 18:4) Look! All the soulsto me they belong. As physical and the spiritual welfare of his people. The sabbath
the soul of the father so also the soul of the sonto me they came into existence for the sake of man, said Jesus. (Mark
belong. The soul who sins is the one who will die. 2:27) It not only allowed the Israelites to rest but also gave
them the opportunity to draw close to and show love for their
Creator. (Deuteronomy 5:12) It was a day dedicated
(Ephesians 4:18) They are in darkness mentally and exclusively to spiritual interests. That included family
alienated from the life that belongs to God, because of the worship, prayer, and meditation on Gods Law. The
ignorance that is in them, because of the insensitivity of their arrangement served to protect the Israelites from using all
hearts. their time and energy in material pursuits. The Sabbath
reminded them that their relationship with Jehovah was the
(Isaiah 29:16) How you twist things! Should the potter be most important thing in their lives. Jesus reiterated that
regarded the same as the clay? Should what is made say unchanging principle when he said: It is written, Man must
about its maker: He did not make me? And does what is live, not on bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth
formed say about its former: He shows no understanding? through Jehovahs mouth.Matthew 4:4.

(Revelation 4:11) You are worthy, Jehovah our God, to 9 Gods people are no longer required to observe a literal 24-
receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you hour sabbath rest, but the Sabbath arrangement remains much
created all things, and because of your will they came into more than a historical curiosity. (Colossians 2:16) Is it not a
existence and were created. reminder that we too must give spiritual activities priority?
Sacred interests must not be overshadowed by material
preoccupations or recreational pursuits. (Hebrews 4:9, 10) So
we might ask ourselves: What takes first place in my life?
*** w02 4/15 p. 20 par. 9 Am I giving priority to study, prayer, attendance at Christian
Guide Your Steps by Godly Principles meetings, and the sharing of the good news of the Kingdom?
***9 Discerning and applying Bible principles is not as easy Or are other interests crowding out such activities? If we put
as following a set of laws. As imperfect humans we may shy spiritual matters first in our lives, Jehovah assures us that we
away from the effort required to reason on principles. We will not lack the necessities of life.Matthew 6:24-33.
may prefer the convenience of a rule when we are faced with
a decision or a dilemma. Sometimes we may seek direction 10 Periods spent studying the Bible and related publications,
from a mature Christianmaybe a congregation elder as well as thinking deeply about their message, can help us to
expecting to receive a specific rule that applies to our draw closer to Jehovah. (James 4:8) Susan, who some 40
situation. Yet, the Bible or Bible-based publications may not years ago began setting aside time for regular Bible study,
provide a definite rule, and even if we are given one, it might acknowledges that at first it was not fun. It was a chore. But
not be a blanket guide for all times and under all the more she read, the more she enjoyed it. Now she really
circumstances. You may remember that a certain man asked misses her personal study if for some reason she cannot get to
Jesus: Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with it. Study has helped me to get to know Jehovah as a Father,
me. Instead of quickly providing a ruling to resolve disputes she says. I can trust him, rely upon him, and freely approach
between siblings, Jesus gave him a more general principle: him in prayer. It is really overwhelming to see how much
Keep your eyes open and guard against every sort of Jehovah loves his servants, how he cares for me personally,
covetousness. Thus Jesus provided a guideline that was and how he has acted in my behalf. What great joy we too
useful then and remains so now.Luke 12:13-15. can have from regularly attending to our spiritual needs!
(Hebrews 6:1) Therefore, now that we have moved beyond *** w02 4/15 p. 22
the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to
maturity, not laying a foundation again, namely, repentance Guide Your Steps by Godly Principles ***
from dead works and faith in God, Happy Results
16 As we strive to obey Jehovah, it is important to realize that
*** w06 6/15 pp. 21-22 How I Do Love Your Law! his laws are based on key principles. For example, Christians
***Satisfying Our Spiritual Need are to avoid idolatry, sexual immorality, and the misuse of
blood. (Acts 15:28, 29) What underlies the Christian stand on
6 Mankind was created with a number of needs. Food, drink, those issues? God deserves our exclusive devotion; we should
and shelter, for example, are essential if a person is to remain be faithful to our mate; and Jehovah is the Life-Giver.
in good physical health. Yet, man also has to care for his (Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:5; Psalm 36:9) Appreciating these
spiritual need. He will not be truly happy unless he does underlying principles makes it easier to accept and follow the
that. (Matthew 5:3) Jehovah considered the satisfying of this related laws.
innate need to be so fundamental that he commanded his
people to interrupt their normal activities for one whole day
each week in order to give attention to spiritual matters. *** it-1 p. 344 Blood ***
BLOOD
7 The Sabbath arrangement emphasized the importance of
spiritual pursuits. The first occurrence of the word sabbath
in the Bible is in connection with the provision of manna in A truly marvelous fluid that circulates in the vascular
the wilderness. The Israelites were told that they should system of humans and most multicelled animals; in Hebrew,
collect this miraculous bread for six days. On the sixth day, dam, and in Greek, haima. Blood supplies nourishment and
they were to collect the bread of two days, for on the oxygen to all parts of the body, carries away waste products,
seventh, none would be provided. The seventh day would be
131
and plays a major role in safeguarding the body against authorized and obligated to kill him in order to remove
infection. The chemical makeup of blood is so exceedingly bloodguilt from the land.Nu 35:26, 27; see AVENGER OF
complex that there is a great deal that is still unknown to BLOOD.
scientists.
Proper Use of Blood. There was only one use of blood
In the Bible, the soul is said to be in the blood because that God ever approved, namely, for sacrifice. He directed
blood is so intimately involved in the life processes. Gods that those under the Mosaic Law offer animal sacrifices to
Word says: For the soul of the flesh is in the blood, and I make atonement for sin. (Le 17:10, 11) It was also in
myself have put it upon the altar for you to make atonement harmony with His will that His Son, Jesus Christ, offered up
for your souls, because it is the blood that makes atonement his perfect human life as a sacrifice for sins.Heb 10:5, 10.
by the soul in it. (Le 17:11) For like reason, but making the
connection even more direct, the Bible says: The soul of The lifesaving application of Christs blood was
every sort of flesh is its blood. (Le 17:14) Clearly, Gods prefigured in a variety of ways in the Hebrew Scriptures. At
Word treats both life and blood as sacred. the time of the first Passover, in Egypt, the blood on the
upper part of the doorway and on the doorposts of the
Taking Life. With Jehovah is the source of life. (Ps Israelite homes protected the firstborn inside from death at
36:9) Man cannot give back a life that he takes. All the souls the hand of Gods angel. (Ex 12:7, 22, 23; 1Co 5:7) The Law
to me they belong, says Jehovah. (Eze 18:4) Therefore, to covenant, which had a typical sin-removing feature, was
take life is to take Jehovahs property. Every living thing has validated by the blood of animals. (Ex 24:5-8) The numerous
a purpose and a place in Gods creation. No man has the right blood sacrifices, particularly those offered on the Day of
to take life except when God permits and in the way that he Atonement, were for typical sin atonement, pointing to the
instructs. real sin removal by the sacrifice of Christ.Le 16:11, 15-18.

After the Flood, Noah and his sons, the progenitors of *** w12 1/15 pp. 16-20 Learn From the Framework of
all persons alive today, were commanded to show respect for Truth ***
the life, the blood, of fellowmen. (Ge 9:1, 5, 6) Also, God Learn From the Framework of Truth
kindly allowed them to add animal flesh to their diet. [You have] the framework of the knowledge and of the truth
However, they had to acknowledge that the life of any animal in the Law.ROM. 2:20.
killed for food belonged to God, doing so by pouring its
LOOK FOR THE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS:
blood out as water on the ground. This was like giving it back What did the sacrifices stipulated by the Mosaic Law
to God, not using it for ones own purposes.De 12:15, 16. foreshadow?
What parallel exists between certain sacrifices made by the
Man was entitled to enjoy the life that God granted him, Israelites and by Christians today?
and anyone who deprived him of that life would be What factors determine whether a sacrifice will be acceptable
answerable to God. This was shown when God said to the or unacceptable to Jehovah?
murderer Cain: Your brothers blood is crying out to me
from the ground. (Ge 4:10) Even a person hating his brother, WERE it not for the inspired writings of the apostle Paul, it
and so wishing him dead, or slandering him or bearing false would be hard for us to understand the significance of many
aspects of the Mosaic Law. In his letter to the Hebrews, for
witness against him, and so endangering his life, would bring example, he clarifies how Jesus as a faithful high priest
guilt upon himself in connection with the blood of his could once and for all time offer a propitiatory sacrifice
fellowman.Le 19:16; De 19:18-21; 1Jo 3:15. making it possible for those exercising faith in it to obtain an
everlasting deliverance. (Heb. 2:17; 9:11, 12) Paul explained
Because of Gods view of the value of life, the blood of that the tabernacle was merely a shadow of the heavenly
things and that Jesus became the Mediator of a better
a murdered person is said to defile the earth, and such covenant than that mediated by Moses. (Heb. 7:22; 8:1-5) In
defilement can be cleansed only by shedding the blood of the Pauls day, such explanations of the Law were invaluable to
murderer. On this basis the Bible authorizes capital Christians, and they still are. They help us to grasp more fully
punishment for murder, through duly constituted authority. the value of the provisions that God has made for us.
(Nu 35:33; Ge 9:5, 6) In ancient Israel no ransom could be
taken to deliver the deliberate murderer from the death 2 When Paul wrote to Christians in Rome, he directed some
of his comments to congregation members who were of
penalty.Nu 35:19-21, 31. Jewish stock and who had been instructed in the Mosaic Law.
He acknowledged that because of their familiarity with that
Even in cases where the manslayer could not be found divine Law, such ones had the advantage of possessing a
on investigation, the city nearest the site where the body was framework of the knowledge and of the truth concerning
found was counted bloodguilty. To remove the bloodguilt, the Jehovah and his righteous principles. A grasp of that
framework of truth and heartfelt respect for it enabled
responsible city elders had to perform the procedure required Jewish Christians, like faithful Jews before them, to guide,
by God, had to disclaim any guilt or knowledge of the teach, and illuminate those who were in ignorance of the Law
murder, and had to pray to God for his mercy. (De 21:1-9) If that Jehovah had given to his people.Read Romans 2:17-
an accidental manslayer was not seriously concerned over the 20.
taking of a life and did not follow Gods arrangement for his
protection by fleeing to the city of refuge and remaining SHADOWS OF JESUS SACRIFICE
3 The framework of truth to which Paul referred is still
there, the dead mans nearest of kin was the avenger important in order for us to understand Jehovahs purposes.
132
The principles behind the Mosaic Law have not lost any 9 What can be said, though, of a situation in which the
significance or value. With this in mind, let us consider just Mosaic Law required a sin offering or a guilt offering from an
one aspect of that Lawhow various sacrifices and offerings individual because of some shortcoming on his part? Do you
led humble Jews to Christ and helped them to understand think that the obligatory nature of the sacrifice would have
what God required of them. And since Jehovahs basic made a difference to a persons willingness and attitude in
requirements for his servants never change, we will also see offering it? Might such sacrifices have been offered
that Gods laws to the Israelites regarding sacrifices and begrudgingly? (Lev. 4:27, 28) They would not have been if
offerings can help us to analyze the quality of our sacred the person involved was sincere in wanting to maintain a
service.Mal. 3:6. good relationship with Jehovah.

4 It could hardly have been lost on the ancient Jews that 10 Similarly today, you may realize that thoughtlessly,
many aspects of the Mosaic Law emphasized their sinfulness. unwittingly, or carelessly, you may have offended a brother.
For example, anyone who touched a human corpse was Your conscience may tell you that you have fallen short in
required to undergo purification. To this end, a sound red cow your conduct. Anyone who is serious about serving Jehovah
was slaughtered and burned. Its ashes were kept to make would do all in his power to rectify the shortcoming, would
water for cleansing, which was sprinkled on the person he not? That could mean apologizing sincerely to the person
being purified on the third and the seventh day after offended or, in the case of serious wrongdoing, seeking the
contamination. (Num. 19:1-13) And as a reminder that human spiritual assistance of loving Christian overseers. (Matt. 5:23,
reproduction transmitted imperfection and sin, a woman who 24; Jas. 5:14, 15) So it costs us something to rectify a sin
gave birth was required to observe a period of uncleanness, committed against a fellow man or against God himself. Even
after which she was to make atonement by means of a so, when we make such sacrifices, we restore our
sacrifice.Lev. 12:1-8. relationship with Jehovah and our brother and we gain a clean
conscience. This, in turn, reassures us that Jehovahs way is
5 Animal sacrifices were required in many other situations of the best way.
everyday life to atone for sins. Whether the worshipper
realized it or not, these sacrificesand those later offered at 11 Certain sacrifices stipulated by the Mosaic Law were
Jehovahs templewere a shadow of Jesus perfect considered communion offerings. These signified peace with
sacrifice.Heb. 10:1-10. Jehovah. The person making such an offering and his family
would eat the meat of the sacrificed animal, perhaps in one of
THE SPIRIT BEHIND THE SACRIFICE the temples dining rooms. The officiating priest received a
6 A fundamental standard concerning any animal that was to portion of the meat, as did the other priests serving at the
be sacrificed to Jehovah was that it be sound in all respects temple. (Lev. 3:1, ftn.; 7:31-33) The worshipper made his
not blind, injured, deformed, or sick. (Lev. 22:20-22) When sacrifice purely out of the desire to enjoy a good relationship
the Israelites offered fruits or grains to Jehovah, they needed with God. It was as though the worshipper, his family, the
to be the firstfruits, the very best of their harvests. (Num. priests, and Jehovah himself were joyfully partaking of a
18:12, 29) A second-rate offering was not acceptable to meal together, in peace.
Jehovah. The important requirement regarding animal
sacrifices pictured that Jesus sacrifice would be spotless and 12 What greater privilege could there be than, in a symbolic
unblemished and that Jehovah would sacrifice what was best way, to invite Jehovah to such a meal and for him to accept?
and dearest to him in order to redeem mankind.1 Pet. Naturally, the host would want to offer his very best to such
1:18, 19. an honored guest. The provision of communion sacrifices,
part of the Laws framework of truth, pointed to the fact that
7 If the person making a sacrifice was truly grateful to by means of Jesus greater sacrifice, all those of mankind who
Jehovah for all of His goodness, then would he not be happy desire to attain an intimate, peaceful relationship with their
to select the very best that he possessed? The quality of the Creator can do so. Today, we can enjoy Jehovahs friendship
offering was left up to the individual. However, he knew that and company as we voluntarily sacrifice our resources and
God would not be pleased with a defective offering because energies in his service.
that would indicate that the man considered the sacrifice a
mere formality, even a burden. (Read Malachi 1:6-8, 13.) CAUTIONS REGARDING SACRIFICES
This should make us reflect on our service to God: With 13 Naturally, in order to be accepted by Jehovah, the
what spirit am I serving Jehovah? Might it be appropriate for sacrifices prescribed by the Mosaic Law had to be offered
me to review the quality of my service and my motives for with the right spirit and heart condition. The Bible, however,
serving him? contains cautionary examples of sacrifices that were not
acceptable to God. What made him reject them? Let us
8 If an Israelites sacrifice was a voluntary manifestation of consider two situations.
sincere gratitude to Jehovah or, as in the case of a burnt
offering, a request for his approval, then making the 14 The prophet Samuel told King Saul that the time had come
appropriate choice of animal would likely present no for Jehovah to execute judgment on the Amalekites. Saul
challenge. The worshipper would be happy to give Jehovah therefore was to exterminate this enemy nation along with its
his very best. Christians today do not make the literal livestock. After his victory, however, Saul allowed his
sacrifices stipulated by the Mosaic Law; yet they do make soldiers to preserve alive Agag, the king of the Amalekites.
sacrifices, in the sense that they use their time, energy, and Saul also spared the best of their livestock as something that
resources to serve Jehovah. The apostle Paul referred to the could be sacrificed to Jehovah. (1 Sam. 15:2, 3, 21) What was
public declaration of the Christian hope and the doing of Jehovahs reaction? He rejected Saul for his disobedience.
good and the sharing of things with others as sacrifices that (Read 1 Samuel 15:22, 23.) What do we learn from this? That
please God. (Heb. 13:15, 16) The spirit with which Jehovahs to be acceptable to God, a sacrifice must be accompanied by
people engage in such activities reveals how grateful and obedience to his commands.
appreciative they are for all that God has given to them. So
there is a parallel between the attitudes and motivations of 15 A similar example is found in the book of Isaiah. In
those who engage in Christian service today and those who Isaiahs day, the Israelites were going through the motions of
offered voluntary sacrifices in ancient times. sacrificing to Jehovah. Their bad behavior, however, made
their sacrifices invalid. Of what benefit to me is the
133
multitude of your sacrifices? asked Jehovah. I have had principle, however, precludes such an attitude, for it is in the
enough of whole burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well- very nature of principles that to be governed by them is to
fed animals; and in the blood of young bulls and male lambs respond from the heart. Consider Joseph who, like Abel and
and he-goats I have taken no delight. . . . Stop bringing in any Noah, lived before the establishment of the Mosaic Law
more valueless grain offerings. Incenseit is something covenant. When Potiphars wife tried to seduce him, Joseph
detestable to me. What was the problem? God told them: responded: How could I commit this great badness and
Even though you make many prayers, I am not listening; actually sin against God? Yes, Joseph knew the principle
with bloodshed your very hands have become filled. Wash that husband and wife are one flesh.Genesis 2:24; 39:9.
yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the badness of
your dealings from in front of my eyes; cease to do bad. Today the world is void of righteous principles. It feeds like a
Isa. 1:11-16. glutton on violence and immorality. The danger is that a
Christian might be tempted to nibble, perhaps secretly, on the
16 Jehovah took no pleasure in sacrifices offered by same junk foodthe movies, videos, or books. How
unrepentant sinners. However, the prayers and offerings of commendable, then, when we like Joseph reject bad on
those sincerely striving to live in harmony with Gods principle, remembering that God will preserve only the loyal
commands were acceptable to him. The framework of the ones through the coming great tribulation. (Matthew 24:21)
Law taught such individuals that they were sinful and in need Yes, it is primarily what we are in private, not in public, that
of forgiveness. (Gal. 3:19) That realization appropriately reveals what we truly are within.Psalm 11:4; Proverbs
produced a contrite heart. Similarly today, we need to 15:3.
recognize our need for Christs sacrifice, which is truly
capable of atoning for sins. If we understand and appreciate It follows that if we are guided by Bible principles, we will
this, then Jehovah will be delighted with all that we offer not look for supposed loopholes in Gods laws; nor will we
him in our dedicated service.Read Psalm 51:17, 19. try to see how far we can go without actually breaking a
certain law. Such thinking is self-defeating; it hurts us in the
EXERCISE FAITH IN JESUS SACRIFICE! end.
17 The advantage we have over those who lived in pre-
Christian times is that we no longer have to be content with Look Behind the Law
seeing just a shadow of Gods purposes. (Heb. 10:1) The Of course, laws play a vital role in a Christians life. They are
laws concerning sacrifices encouraged the Jews to develop like sentinels that help to protect us, and at their core are
attitudes appropriate to attaining a good relationship with many important principles. A failure to perceive these
Godgenuine gratitude to him, the desire to give him ones principles may cool our love for the related laws. The ancient
best, and recognition of the need for redemption. Thanks to nation of Israel demonstrated this.
the explanations in the Christian Greek Scriptures, we can
understand that by means of the ransom, Jehovah will
permanently remove the effects of sin and that even now he God gave Israel the Ten Commandments, the first of which
allows us to have a good conscience before him. Jesus forbade the worship of any god other than Jehovah. That
ransom sacrifice is a wonderful provision!Gal. 3:13; Heb. Jehovah created all things is a fundamental truth behind this
9:9, 14. law. (Exodus 20:3-5) But did the nation live by this principle?
Jehovah himself answers: You are our father [said the
Israelites] to a block of wood and [they cried] Mother to a
18 Of course, more than a simple understanding of the stone. But on me [Jehovah] they have turned their backs and
ransom sacrifice is needed in order for us to benefit from it. averted their faces from me. (Jeremiah 2:27, The New
The Law has become our tutor leading to Christ, that we English Bible) What callous and unprincipled folly! And how
might be declared righteous due to faith, wrote the apostle it hurt Jehovahs heart!Psalm 78:40, 41; Isaiah 63:9, 10.
Paul. (Gal. 3:24) And such faith cannot be devoid of works.
(Jas. 2:26) Paul thus encouraged first-century Christians who
possessed the framework of knowledge conveyed by the Christians too have laws from God. For example, they are to
Mosaic Law to put that knowledge into practice. By so doing, avoid idolatry, sexual immorality, and the misuse of blood.
their conduct would harmonize with the divine principles (Acts 15:28, 29) When you think about it, we can see
they taught.Read Romans 2:21-23. underlying principles, such as: God merits our exclusive
devotion; we are to be faithful to our mate; and Jehovah is
our Life-Giver. (Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:5; Psalm 36:9) If
19 Although Christians today are not required to observe the we both perceive and deeply appreciate the principles behind
Mosaic Law, they must still present sacrifices that are these directives, we see that they are for our own good.
acceptable to Jehovah. How we can do this will be the subject (Isaiah 48:17) To us, Gods commandments are not
of the following article. burdensome.1 John 5:3.
[Blurb on page 17]Jehovahs basic requirements for his While the Israelites at one time ignored Gods
servants never change commandments, by Jesus time their doctors of the law, the
scribes, had gone to the other extreme. They had formulated a
[Picture on page 18]Which animal would you have offered to mountain of rules and traditions that obstructed pure worship
Jehovah? and buried godly principles. (Matthew 23:2, NEB) People felt
resigned to failure, hopelessness, or hypocrisy. (Matthew
[Picture on page 19]Those who offer acceptable sacrifices to 15:3-9) And many of the man-made rules were inhumane.
Jehovah enjoy his approval When about to cure a man with a withered hand, Jesus asked
the Pharisees present: Is it lawful on the sabbath to do a
good deed? Their silence shouted no, making Jesus feel
thoroughly grieved at the insensibility of their hearts.
*** w97 10/15 pp. 29-30 (Mark 3:1-6) The Pharisees might come to the aid of a
Discerning the Principle Reflects Maturity *** stranded or injured domestic animal (a financial investment)
on the Sabbath but never to a man or a womannot unless it
Principles and the Heart was a matter of life and death. Indeed, they were so obsessed
It is possible to obey a law only reluctantly, perhaps out of with human rules and technicalities that like ants scurrying
fear of a penalty for disobedience. Compliance with a
134
about on a painting, they failed to see the whole picturethe commits a murder will be accountable to the court of justice.
22
divine principles.Matthew 23:23, 24. However, I say to you that everyone who continues
wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of
Even young ones, however, when their hearts are sincere, can justice; and whoever addresses his brother with an
bring honor to Jehovah by their appreciation for Bible unspeakable word of contempt will be accountable to the
principles. Thirteen-year-old Rebeccas teacher asked the Supreme Court; whereas whoever says, You despicable
class who would gamble. Most said they would not. Yet, fool! will be liable to the fiery Gehenna. 23 If, then, you are
when various situations were mentioned, all except Rebecca bringing your gift to the altar and there you remember that
conceded that they would gamble in one way or another. The your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift
teacher asked Rebecca if she would buy a 20-cent raffle ticket there in front of the altar, and go away. First make your peace
for a worthy cause. Rebecca said no and gave the Scriptural with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift.
25
reasons why doing so would be a form of gambling. Her Be quick to settle matters with your legal opponent, while
teacher then said to the whole class: In my opinion, Rebecca you are with him on the way there, so that somehow the
is the only one here who has what I call principles in the opponent may not turn you over to the judge, and the judge to
true sense of the word. Yes, Rebecca could simply have the court attendant, and you get thrown into prison. 26 I say to
replied, It is against my religion, but she thought more you for a fact, you will certainly not come out of there until
deeply than that; she could answer why gambling is wrong you have paid over your last small coin. 27 You heard that it
and why she refused to take part in it. was said: You must not commit adultery. 28 But I say to you
that everyone who keeps on looking at a woman so as to have
a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in
Examples like Abel, Noah, Joseph, and Jesus show us how his heart. 29 If, now, your right eye is making you stumble,
we benefit by using our thinking ability and our power of tear it out and throw it away from you. For it is better for you
reason in worshiping God. (Proverbs 2:11; Romans 12:1) to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be
Christian elders do well to imitate Jesus as they shepherd the pitched into Gehenna. 30 Also, if your right hand is making
flock of God in [their] care. (1 Peter 5:2) As Jesus well you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you. For it is
exemplified, lovers of godly principles are the ones who better for you to lose one of your members than for your
thrive under Jehovahs sovereignty.Isaiah 65:14. whole body to land in Gehenna. 31 Moreover, it was said:
Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of
(1 Corinthians 10:11) Now these things happened to them as divorce. 32 However, I say to you that everyone divorcing his
examples, and they were written for a warning to us upon wife, except on account of sexual immorality, makes her a
subject for adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman
whom the ends of the systems of things have come. commits adultery. 33 Again you heard that it was said to
those of ancient times: You must not swear without
Becoming a Person of Godly Principles performing, but you must pay your vows to Jehovah.
34
However, I say to you: Do not swear at all, neither by
heaven, for it is Gods throne; 35 nor by earth, for it is the
(Matthew 4:1-10) Then Jesus was led by the spirit up into footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the
the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil. 2 After he had great King. 36 Do not swear by your head, since you cannot
fasted for 40 days and 40 nights, he felt hungry. 3 And the turn one hair white or black. 37 Just let your word Yes mean
Tempter approached and said to him: If you are a son of yes, your No, no, for what goes beyond these is from the
God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread. 4 But he wicked one. 38 You heard that it was said: Eye for eye and
answered: It is written: Man must live, not on bread alone, tooth for tooth. 39 However, I say to you: Do not resist the
but on every word that comes from Jehovahs mouth. one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right
5
Then the Devil took him along into the holy city, and he cheek, turn the other also to him. 40 And if a person wants to
stationed him on the battlement of the temple 6 and said to take you to court and get possession of your inner garment,
him: If you are a son of God, throw yourself down, for it is let him also have your outer garment; 41 and if someone in
written: He will give his angels a command concerning you, authority compels you into service for a mile, go with him
and, They will carry you on their hands, so that you may not two miles. 42 Give to the one asking you, and do not turn
strike your foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said to him: Again away from one who wants to borrow from you. 43 You heard
it is written: You must not put Jehovah your God to the that it was said: You must love your neighbor and hate your
test. 8 Again the Devil took him along to an unusually high enemy. 44 However, I say to you: Continue to love your
mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and enemies and to pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that
their glory. 9 And he said to him: All these things I will give you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the
you if you fall down and do an act of worship to me. 10 Then heavens, since he makes his sun rise on both the wicked and
Jesus said to him: Go away, Satan! For it is written: It is the good and makes it rain on both the righteous and the
Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone unrighteous. 46 For if you love those loving you, what reward
you must render sacred service. do you have? Are not also the tax collectors doing the same
thing? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what
extraordinary thing are you doing? Are not also the people of
Page 90 Unit 10 (b) the nations doing the same thing? 48 You must accordingly be
perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
(Matthew 5:17-48) Do not think I came to destroy the Law
or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 Truly I (Hebrews 5:14) But solid food belongs to mature people, to
say to you that sooner would heaven and earth pass away those who through use have their powers of discernment
than for one stroke of a letter to pass away from the Law until trained to distinguish both right and wrong.
all things take place. 19 Whoever, therefore, breaks one of
these least commandments and teaches others to do so will be *** w02 2/15 p. 5 Godly Principles Can Benefit You
called least in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. But ***The Most High Over All the Earth
whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in
relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. 20 For I say to you The Holy Scriptures make it clear that Jehovah is our
that if your righteousness does not surpass that of the scribes
and the Pharisees, you will by no means enter into the Grand Creator, God Almighty. He can never be equaled or
Kingdom of the heavens. 21 You heard that it was said to supplanted. This is a key truth recorded in the Bible.
those of ancient times: You must not murder, but whoever
135
Genesis 17:1; Ecclesiastes 12:1.
Lifes key principles, of course, are spiritual; they govern our
One of the writers of the book of Psalms noted about worship of God and our happiness. Some, though, retreat
Jehovah: You alone are the Most High over all the earth. from the effort required to reason on principles. They prefer
Ancient King David said: Yours is the kingdom, O Jehovah, the comfort of a rule when faced with a decision. This is
unwise and contrasts with the example set by faithful men of
the One also lifting yourself up as head over all. And the old in Bible times.Romans 15:4.
renowned prophet Jeremiah was moved to record: In no way
is there anyone like you, O Jehovah. You are great, and your Men of Godly Principle
name is great in mightiness.Psalm 83:18; 1 Chronicles Among imperfect men, Abel could be called the very first
29:11; Jeremiah 10:6. man of godly principle. He likely gave much thought to the
promise about the seed and perceived that redemption from
How should we apply those truths about God in sin would involve a blood sacrifice. (Genesis 3:15) He thus
offered God some firstlings of his flock. The phrase even
everyday life? their fatty pieces shows that Abel gave Jehovah his very
best. Yet, it would be over two thousand years after Abels
It is clear who should really be preeminent in our lives death that God would first spell out detailed requirements
our Creator and Life-Giver. Would it not be fitting, then, to regarding sacrifices. In contrast with the God-fearing man of
resist any tendency to draw attention to ourselvesa principle Abel, his brother Cain went through the motions of
tendency that may be stronger in some than in others? A wise sacrificing to God. But his attitude left much to be desired,
something about his offering indicating a heart lacking in
guiding principle is to do all things for Gods glory. principle.Genesis 4:3-5.
(1 Corinthians 10:31) The prophet Daniel set a fine example
in this regard. Noah too was a man of godly principle. While the Bible
record shows that God specifically commanded him to build
The historical record tells us that King Nebuchadnezzar an ark, we read of no command for him to preach to others.
of Babylon was once agitated by a dream and demanded to Still, Noah is called a preacher of righteousness. (2 Peter
2:5) Even though God likely directed that Noah preach, no
know its meaning. Whereas everyone else was baffled, doubt his sense of principle and his love of neighbor also
Daniel accurately told the king what he wanted to know. Did moved him to do so. Since we live in times like Noahs, let us
Daniel take credit for this? No, he gave glory to God in the imitate his fine attitude and example.
heavens who is a Revealer of secrets. Daniel went on: It is
not through any wisdom that exists in me more than in any Unlike the clergy of his day, Jesus taught the people to think
others alive that this secret is revealed to me. Daniel was a in terms of principles. His Sermon on the Mount is an
example. Its whole tenor is an appeal to principle. (Matthew,
man of principle. No wonder that in the book of Daniel, he is chapters 5-7) Jesus taught this way because, like Abel and
described three times as being very desirable in Gods eyes. Noah before him, he truly knew God. Even as a lad, he
Daniel 2:28, 30; 9:23; 10:11, 19. revered the fundamental truth: Not by bread alone . . . but by
every expression of Jehovahs mouth does man live.
You will be benefited when you imitate Daniel. In (Deuteronomy 8:3; Luke 2:41-47) Yes, the key to being a
person of godly principle is really to know Jehovah, his likes,
following Daniels example, the decisive factor is motive. his dislikes, and his purposes. When these fundamentals
Who should get the honor for what you do? Regardless of about God govern our lives, they become, in effect, living
your situation, you have the ability to act in harmony with principles.Jeremiah 22:16; Hebrews 4:12.
this vitally important Bible principleJehovah is the
Sovereign Lord. Your doing so will make you very
desirable in his eyes. Principles and the Heart
It is possible to obey a law only reluctantly, perhaps out of
*** w97 10/15 pp. 28-29 Discerning the Principle Reflects fear of a penalty for disobedience. Compliance with a
Maturity *** principle, however, precludes such an attitude, for it is in the
very nature of principles that to be governed by them is to
respond from the heart. Consider Joseph who, like Abel and
Discerning the Principle Reflects Maturity Noah, lived before the establishment of the Mosaic Law
BAD associations spoil useful habits. You reap what you sow. covenant. When Potiphars wife tried to seduce him, Joseph
(1 Corinthians 15:33; Galatians 6:7) Either physically or responded: How could I commit this great badness and
spiritually, each statement is an example of a fundamental actually sin against God? Yes, Joseph knew the principle
trutha principleand each one provides a basis for laws. that husband and wife are one flesh.Genesis 2:24; 39:9.
Laws, though, may come and go, and they tend to be specific. Today the world is void of righteous principles. It feeds like a
Principles, on the other hand, are broad, and they can last glutton on violence and immorality. The danger is that a
forever. Thus, Gods Word encourages us to think in terms of Christian might be tempted to nibble, perhaps secretly, on the
principles wherever possible. same junk foodthe movies, videos, or books. How
commendable, then, when we like Joseph reject bad on
Websters Third New International Dictionary defines a principle, remembering that God will preserve only the loyal
principle as a general or fundamental truth: a comprehensive ones through the coming great tribulation. (Matthew 24:21)
and fundamental law, doctrine, or assumption on which Yes, it is primarily what we are in private, not in public, that
others are based or from which others are derived. For reveals what we truly are within.Psalm 11:4; Proverbs
example, to a child one might give the law, You must not 15:3.
touch the stove. But to an adult the statement, The stove is
hot would suffice. Notice that the latter is a more It follows that if we are guided by Bible principles, we will
fundamental statement. Because it governs what one may do not look for supposed loopholes in Gods laws; nor will we
perhaps cook, bake, or turn the stove offit becomes in a try to see how far we can go without actually breaking a
sense a principle.
136
certain law. Such thinking is self-defeating; it hurts us in the
end. Page 92
(Genesis 3:15) And I will put enmity between you and the Unit 10 (b)
woman and between your offspring and her offspring. He will
crush your head, and you will strike him in the heel. (Luke 17:1-5) Then he said to his disciples: It is
(Genesis 4:3-5) After some time, Cain brought some fruits of unavoidable that causes for stumbling should come.
the land as an offering to Jehovah. 4 But Abel brought some Nevertheless, woe to the one through whom they come! 2 It
firstlings of his flock, including their fat. While Jehovah would be more advantageous for him if a millstone were
looked with favor on Abel and on his offering, 5 he did not hung from his neck and he were thrown into the sea than for
look with any favor on Cain and on his offering. So Cain him to stumble one of these little ones. 3 Pay attention to
grew hot with anger and was dejected.
yourselves. If your brother commits a sin, rebuke him, and if
(Genesis 6:8, 9) But Noah found favor in the eyes of he repents, forgive him. 4 Even if he sins seven times a day
Jehovah. 9 This is the history of Noah. Noah was a righteous against you and he comes back to you seven times, saying, I
man. He proved himself faultless among his contemporaries.
Noah walked with the true God. repent, you must forgive him. 5 Now the apostles said to the
Lord: Give us more faith.
(2 Peter 2:5) And he did not refrain from punishing an
ancient world, but kept Noah, a preacher of righteousness,
safe with seven others when he brought a flood upon a world (Psalm 32:8) I will give you insight and instruct you in the
of ungodly people. way you should go. I will give you advice with my eye upon
you.
(Esther 4:14) For if you remain silent at this time, relief and
deliverance will come to the Jews from another source, but
you and your fathers house will perish. And who knows (2 Corinthians 9:7) Let each one do just as he has resolved
whether it is for a time like this that you have attained to your in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God
royal status? loves a cheerful giver.
(Esther 7:3) Queen Esther answered: If I have found favor
with you, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be
granted as my petition, and my people as my request. Page 93 Unit 11 (a)
(Ephesians 5:17) On this account stop being unreasonable, Examine Your Spiritual Progress
but keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.
OPENING DISCUSSION
(Romans 12:2) And stop being molded by this system of
things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that (1 Corinthians 2:12-16) Now we received, not the spirit of
you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and the world, but the spirit that is from God, so that we might
perfect will of God. know the things that have been kindly given us by God.
13
These things we also speak, not with words taught by
(Psalm 40:8) To do your will, O my God, is my delight, And human wisdom, but with those taught by the spirit, as we
your law is deep within me. explain spiritual matters with spiritual words. 14 But a
physical man does not accept the things of the spirit of God,
for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot get to know
Use Bible Principles to Make Wise Choices them, because they are examined spiritually. 15 However, the
spiritual man examines all things, but he himself is not
(Ephesians 5:1) Therefore, become imitators of God, as examined by any man. 16 For who has come to know the
beloved children, mind of Jehovah, so that he may instruct him? But we do
have the mind of Christ.
(Nehemiah 5:15) But the former governors who were before
me had burdened the people and had been taking from them (Romans 7:21-23) I find, then, this law in my case: When I
40 silver shekels for bread and wine each day. Also, their wish to do what is right, what is bad is present with me. 22 I
attendants had oppressed the people. But I did not do that really delight in the law of God according to the man I am
because of the fear of God. within, 23 but I see in my body another law warring against
the law of my mind and leading me captive to sins law that is
(Proverbs 2:3-5) Moreover, if you call out for understanding in my body.
And raise your voice for discernment; 4 If you keep seeking
for it as for silver, And you keep searching for it as for hidden (Romans 8:6) For setting the mind on the flesh means death,
treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of Jehovah, but setting the mind on the spirit means life and peace;
And you will find the knowledge of God. (1 Corinthians 3:1) So, brothers, I was not able to speak to
(Ephesians 4:15) But speaking the truth, let us by love grow you as to spiritual men, but as to fleshly men, as to infants in
up in all things into him who is the head, Christ. Christ.

(Hebrews 5:14) But solid food belongs to mature people, to *** w07 8/1 pp. 4-5 True SpiritualityHow Can You Find
those who through use have their powers of discernment It? ***
trained to distinguish both right and wrong.
True SpiritualityHow Can You Find It?

TO BE carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually


Page 91 Unit 10 (b) minded is life and peace, wrote the apostle Paul. (Romans
(Galatians 6:5) For each one will carry his own load. 8:6, King James Version) With those words, the apostle was
pointing out that being a spiritual person is more than a
137
matter of personal preference or inclination. Essentially, it is Christ.2 Peter 3:18.
a matter of life and death. In what sense, though, does a
spiritual person receive life and peace? According to the With that in mind, let us examine some passages in the
Bible, such a person enjoys peace nowwith self and with Gospels to see what made Jesus such a spiritual person. Then,
Godand will be blessed with everlasting life in the future. ask yourself how you can imitate the pattern set by him.
(Romans 6:23; Philippians 4:7) No wonder Jesus observed: John 13:15.
Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need!
Spirituality and the Fruitage of the Spirit
Matthew 5:3.
Gospel writer Luke stated that Gods holy spirit was
The fact that you are reading this magazine indicates
poured out on Jesus at his baptism and that Jesus was full of
that you have an interest in spiritualityand wisely so. Yet,
holy spirit. (Luke 3:21, 22; 4:1) Jesus, in turn, impressed
views on this subject differ widely, so you may wonder:
upon his followers the importance of being guided by Gods
What is true spirituality? And how does one attain it?
holy spirit, or active force. (Genesis 1:2; Luke 11:9-13)
The Mind of Christ Why is that so important? Because Gods spirit has the power
to transform a persons mind, so that it begins to resemble the
In addition to pointing out the importance and benefits mind of Christ. (Romans 12:1, 2) The holy spirit produces in
of being spiritually-minded, the apostle Paul had much to say a person such qualities as love, joy, peace, long-suffering,
about what true spirituality is. To the Christians in the ancient kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. These
city of Corinth, Paul explained the difference between a qualitieswhich the Bible calls the fruitage of the spirit
physical man, that is, a person who follows the impulses of mark a truly spiritual person. (Galatians 5:22, 23) In short, a
the flesh, and a spiritual man, a person who cherishes spiritually-minded person is one who is guided by Gods
spiritual things. Paul wrote: A physical man does not receive spirit.
the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to
him. On the other hand, Paul explained that the spiritual man Jesus displayed the fruitage of the spirit throughout his
is characterized by having the mind of Christ. ministry. Such qualities as love, kindness, and goodness were
1 Corinthians 2:14-16. particularly evident in the way he treated those who were
considered lowly members of society. (Matthew 9:36) Note,
Having the mind of Christ basically means having for example, an incident described by the apostle John. We
the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus had. (Romans read: As [Jesus] was passing along he saw a man blind from
15:5; Philippians 2:5) In other words, a spiritual man is one birth. Jesus disciples also noticed the man but saw him as a
who thinks as Jesus does and walks in His footsteps. (1 Peter sinner. Who sinned, they asked, this man or his parents?
2:21; 4:1) The more a persons mind resembles that of Christ, The mans neighbors also noted the man, but all they saw was
the deeper his spirituality is and the closer he is to gaining a beggar. This is the man that used to sit and beg, is it not?
life and peace.Romans 13:14. they said. Jesus, however, saw the blind man as an individual
who needed help. He spoke to the blind man and cured him.
John 9:1-8.
How to Get to Know What does this incident tell you about the mind of
Christ? First, Jesus did not overlook lowly ones but treated
the Mind of Christ them with tender compassion. Second, he took the initiative
To have the mind of Christ, however, one must first to help others. Do you see yourself following this pattern set
know that mind. Therefore, the first step in developing by Jesus? Do you see people as Jesus did, giving them the
spirituality is to get to know Jesus way of thinking. But how help they need to improve their life and brighten their future?
do you come to know the mind of someone who lived on Or do you tend to favor those who are prominent and
earth 2,000 years ago? Well, how, for example, did you learn overlook those who are not? If the former is the case, you are
about the historical figures of your country? Likely by doing well in following Jesus example.Psalm 72:12-14.
reading about them. Similarly, reading a written history of QUESTION OUTLINE
Jesus is an important way to get to know the mind of Christ.
John 17:3. What is Needed to Become a Spiritual Person?

In Jesus case, there are four vivid historical accounts (Psalm 119:105) Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light
the Gospels written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. for my path.
Reading these accounts carefully will help you to perceive
(John 17:17) Sanctify them by means of the truth; your word
Jesus way of thinking, his depth of feeling, and the
is truth.
motivation behind his actions. When you take time to reflect
on what you read about Jesus, you build a picture in your (Psalm 139:17) So to me, how precious your thoughts are! O
mind of the kind of person he was. Even if you already God, how vast is the sum of them!
consider yourself a follower of Christ, such reading and (Mark 8:33) At this he turned, looked at his disciples, and
reflection will help you to go on growing in the undeserved rebuked Peter, saying: Get behind me, Satan! because you
kindness and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus think, not Gods thoughts, but those of men.
138
(Romans 12:2) And stop being molded by this system of apostle says by way of illustration and argument: For who
things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that has come to know the mind of Jehovah, that he may instruct
you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and him? No one, of course. But, Paul says of Christians, we
perfect will of God. do have the mind of Christ. By getting the mind of Christ,
(Ephesians 4:23, 24) And you should continue to be made who reveals Jehovah and his purposes to Christians, they are
new in your dominant mental attitude, 24 and should put on spiritual men.1Co 2:14-16.
the new personality that was created according to Gods will (John 5:19) Therefore, in response Jesus said to them: Most
in true righteousness and loyalty. truly I say to you, the Son cannot do a single thing of his own
initiative, but only what he sees the Father doing. For
(1 Corinthians 2:14-16) But a physical man does not accept whatever things that One does, these things the Son does also
the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; in like manner.
and he cannot get to know them, because they are examined
spiritually. 15 However, the spiritual man examines all things, (John 5:30) I cannot do a single thing of my own initiative.
but he himself is not examined by any man. 16 For who has Just as I hear, I judge, and my judgment is righteous because
come to know the mind of Jehovah, so that he may instruct I seek, not my own will, but the will of him who sent me.
him? But we do have the mind of Christ.
(John 14:9, 10) Jesus said to him: Even after I have been
with you men for such a long time, Philip, have you not come
*** it-2 p. 305 Man *** to know me? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father also.
How is it you say, Show us the Father? 10 Do you not
The Man We Are Inside. In speaking of the conflict believe that I am in union with the Father and the Father is in
of the Christian, including that with the fallen, sinful flesh, union with me? The things I say to you I do not speak of my
the Bible uses the expressions the man I am within, the own originality, but the Father who remains in union with me
is doing his works.
man we are inside, and similar phrases. (Ro 7:22; 2Co 4:16;
Eph 3:16) These expressions are appropriate because
Christians have been made new in the force actuating [their] Page 94 Unit 11 (a)
mind. (Eph 4:23) The driving force or inclination of their (John 4:34) Jesus said to them: My food is to do the will of
mind is in a spiritual direction. They are making efforts to him who sent me and to finish his work.
strip off the old personality [literally, old man] and clothe
themselves with the new personality [literally, new (one)]. (Philippians 2:5-8) Keep this mental attitude in you that was
also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although he was existing in Gods
(Col 3:9, 10; Ro 12:2) In being baptized into Christ, anointed form, gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he
Christians have been baptized into his death; the old should be equal to God. 7 No, but he emptied himself and
personality has been impaled, that [the] sinful body might be took a slaves form and became human. 8 More than that,
made inactive. But until their death in the flesh and their when he came as a man, he humbled himself and became
obedient to the point of death, yes, death on a torture stake.
resurrection, the fleshly body is still there to fight the
spiritual man. It is a difficult contest, about which Paul says, *** w12 11/15 pp. 10-14 Jesus Set the Pattern of Humility
In this dwelling house we do indeed groan. But the ransom ***
sacrifice of Jesus Christ covers the sins of the old personality Jesus Set the Pattern of Humility
with fleshly desires working in its members, unless these
I set the pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should
Christians give in and deliberately go the way of the flesh. do also.JOHN 13:15.
Ro 6:3-7; 7:21-25; 8:23; 2Co 5:1-3.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
The Spiritual Man. The apostle contrasts the spiritual How did the Son of God manifest humility during his
man with the physical man. He says: But a physical prehuman existence?
[literally, soulical] man does not receive the things of the
spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him. (1Co 2:14) As a human, how did Jesus display humility?
This physical man does not mean merely one living on What benefits have resulted from Jesus course of humility?
earth, one with a fleshly body, for, obviously, Christians on
IT IS the final night of Jesus life on earth, and he spends it
earth have fleshly bodies. The physical man here spoken of with his apostles in the upper room of a house in Jerusalem.
means one who has no spiritual side to his life. He is During the course of the evening meal, Jesus gets up and puts
soulical in that he follows the desires of the human soul to aside his outer garments. He girds himself with a towel. Then
the exclusion of spiritual things. he puts water into a basin and begins to wash the feet of the
disciples and to dry them off with the towel. He then puts on
his outer garments. Why did Jesus perform this humble act?
Paul continues about the physical man, that he cannot John 13:3-5.
get to know the things of the spirit of God because they are
2
examined spiritually. Then he says: However, the spiritual Jesus himself explained: Do you know what I have done to
man examines indeed all things, but he himself is not you? . . . If I, although Lord and Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash the feet of one another. For I set the
examined by any man. The spiritual man has understanding pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should do also.
of the things God reveals; he sees also the wrong position and (John 13:12-15) By displaying a willingness to perform such
course of the physical man. But the spiritual mans position, a lowly task, Jesus gave his apostles an object lesson that
actions, and course of life cannot be understood by the would be deeply engraved on their minds and would
encourage them to be humble in the days ahead.
physical man, neither can any man judge the spiritual man,
3
for God only is his Judge. (Ro 14:4, 10, 11; 1Co 4:3-5) The When Jesus washed the feet of the apostles, it was not the
first time he highlighted the value of humility. On an earlier
139
occasion when some of the apostles showed a competitive attributes and His purpose for mankind. Jesus also lived in
spirit, Jesus set a young child beside him, and He told them: harmony with what he taught about Jehovah. In the model
Whoever receives this young child on the basis of my name prayer, for example, the first point Jesus mentioned was:
receives me too, and whoever receives me receives him also Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified.
that sent me forth. For he that conducts himself as a lesser (Matt. 6:9) Jesus thus instructed his followers to make the
one among all of you is the one that is great. (Luke 9:46-48) sanctification of Jehovahs name a matter of prime concern.
Aware that the Pharisees sought prominence, Jesus said later He himself lived that way. Toward the end of his earthly
in his ministry: Everyone that exalts himself will be ministry, Jesus could say in prayer to Jehovah: I have made
humbled and he that humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke your name known to them [the apostles] and will make it
14:11) Clearly, Jesus wants his followers to be humble, that known. (John 17:26) Moreover, throughout his ministry
is, lowly in mind and free of pride and arrogance. With a Jesus gave Jehovah the credit for what he accomplished on
view to imitating him, let us carefully examine his example earth.John 5:19.
of humility. We will also see how this quality benefits not 9
only the one displaying it but others as well. Regarding the Messiah, Zechariah prophetically wrote: Be
very joyful, O daughter of Zion. Shout in triumph,
I DID NOT TURN IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION O daughter of Jerusalem. Look! Your king himself comes to
4
you. He is righteous, yes, saved; humble, and riding upon an
Gods only-begotten Son showed humility even before he ass, even upon a full-grown animal the son of a she-ass.
came to earth. In his prehuman existence, Jesus spent an (Zech. 9:9) This was fulfilled when Jesus entered Jerusalem
untold number of years with his heavenly Father. The Bible before the Passover in the year 33 C.E. The crowd spread
book of Isaiah comments on the close relationship the Son their outer garments as well as tree branches on the road.
had with his Father, saying: The Sovereign Lord Jehovah Indeed, the whole city was set in commotion at his entry.
himself has given me the tongue of the taught ones, that I Even when he received public acclaim as King, Jesus was
may know how to answer the tired one with a word. He humble.Matt. 21:4-11.
awakens morning by morning; he awakens my ear to hear
10
like the taught ones. The Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself has Jesus Christs course of humility and obedience on earth
opened my ear, and I, for my part, was not rebellious. I did culminated in his death on a torture stake. He thus proved
not turn in the opposite direction. (Isa. 50:4, 5) The Son of beyond a doubt that humans can remain loyal to Jehovah
God displayed a humble attitude and paid close attention to even when tested to the extreme. Jesus also showed that
what Jehovah taught him. He was eager and willing to learn Satan was wrong in claiming that humans serve Jehovah for
from the true God. How closely Jesus must have observed the selfish reasons. (Job 1:9-11; 2:4) Christs record of perfect
example of Jehovahs humility in exercising mercy toward integrity also upheld the rightfulness and righteousness of
sinful mankind! Jehovahs universal sovereignty. Jehovah certainly rejoiced
5
when observing the unswerving loyalty of his humble Son.
Not every creature in heaven had the same attitude as the Read Proverbs 27:11.
only-begotten Son of God. Instead of desiring to learn from
11
Jehovah, the angel who became Satan the Devil allowed By his death on a torture stake, Jesus also paid the ransom
himself to be influenced by traits opposite to humilityself- price for mankind. (Matt. 20:28) This provided an
importance and prideand actually rebelled against Jehovah. opportunity for sinful humans to live forever, and it satisfied
On the other hand, Jesus was neither dissatisfied with his own the demands of righteousness. Through one act of
position in heaven nor inclined to misuse his authority. As justification the result to men of all sorts is a declaring of
Michael the archangel, Jesus did not go beyond his authority them righteous for life, wrote Paul. (Rom. 5:18) Jesus death
when he had a difference with the Devil about Moses body. opened up the prospect of immortal life in heaven for spirit-
Instead, Gods Son showed humility and modesty. He was anointed Christians and everlasting life on earth for the other
pleased to have Jehovah, the Supreme Judge of the universe, sheep.John 10:16; Rom. 8:16, 17.
handle matters in His own way and time.Read Jude 9.
I AM LOWLY IN HEART
6
The things Jesus learned during his prehuman existence 12
undoubtedly included the prophecies foretelling details of his Jesus invited all those toiling and loaded down to come
life on earth as the Messiah. Hence, he likely knew in to him. He said: Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,
advance that unpleasant experiences awaited him. Yet, Jesus for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find
accepted the assignment to live on earth and die as the refreshment for your souls. (Matt. 11:28, 29) The qualities of
promised Messiah. Why? Highlighting the humility of Gods humility and mildness moved Jesus to be kind and impartial
only-begotten Son, the apostle Paul wrote: Although he was in dealing with imperfect humans. He was reasonable in what
existing in Gods form, [he] gave no consideration to a he expected of his disciples. Jesus commended and
seizure, namely, that he should be equal to God. No, but he encouraged them. He did not make them feel incompetent or
emptied himself and took a slaves form and came to be in the unworthy. Jesus certainly was not harsh or oppressive. On the
likeness of men.Phil. 2:6, 7. contrary, he assured his followers that by drawing close to
him and practicing his teachings, they would be refreshed, for
his yoke was kindly and his load was light. People of both
sexes and of all ages felt at ease in his presence.Matt.
AS A HUMAN, HE HUMBLED HIMSELF 11:30.
7
When [Jesus] found himself in fashion as a man, wrote 13
In his association with the common people of Israel, Jesus
Paul, he humbled himself and became obedient as far as had compassion for them because they were disadvantaged,
death, yes, death on a torture stake. (Phil. 2:8) From his and he gave loving attention to their needs. Near Jericho, he
childhood on, Jesus left us a pattern of humility. Although he encountered a blind beggar named Bartimaeus and his
was raised by imperfect parentsJoseph and MaryJesus unnamed blind companion. They persistently asked for Jesus
humbly continued subject to them. (Luke 2:51) What a fine help, but the crowd sternly urged the men to be quiet. How
example that is for young ones, who will be blessed by God easy it would have been to ignore the pleas of the blind men!
for their willing subjection to their parents! Instead, Jesus asked that they be brought to him, and moved
8 with pity, he restored their sight. Yes, Jesus imitated his
As an adult, Jesus showed humility by giving priority to the Father, Jehovah, by displaying humility and showing mercy
doing of Jehovahs will, not his own. (John 4:34) During his to lowly sinners.Matt. 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52.
ministry, Jesus Christ used Gods personal name and helped
sincere people to gain an accurate knowledge of Jehovahs
140
WHOEVER HUMBLES HIMSELF WILL BE your congregation who are new, young, or infirm? Do you
EXALTED volunteer to clean the Kingdom Hall or to assist in various
14
Jesus Christs life course of humility is a cause of joy and is ways at conventions and assemblies? Can you enroll
highly beneficial. Jehovah rejoiced at seeing his beloved Son periodically as an auxiliary pioneer? Are you able to serve as
humbly subject himself to the divine will. The apostles and a regular pioneer or help in a congregation where the need is
disciples were refreshed by Jesus mild temper and lowliness greater? If you are a brother, are you reaching out to meet the
of heart. His example, his teachings, and his warm
commendation stimulated them to progress spiritually. Scriptural qualifications for ministerial servants and elders?
Common people benefited from Jesus humility because they Your willingness to offer assistance and accept responsibility
became recipients of his help, his teachings, and his is a sign of advancement.Ps. 110:3.
encouragement. Actually, all redeemable mankind will reap
long-term benefits from Jesus ransom sacrifice. The Role Experience Plays
15
What about Jesus? Did his humility benefit him? Yes, for
Jesus told his disciples: Whoever humbles himself will be If you feel limited because of a lack of experience in
exalted. (Matt. 23:12) Those words proved to be true in his Christian living, take heart. Gods Word can make the
own case. Paul explains: God exalted [Jesus] to a superior inexperienced one wise. (Ps. 19:7; 119:130; Prov. 1:1-4)
position and kindly gave him the name that is above every Applying Bible counsel allows us to benefit from Jehovahs
other name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should
bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under perfect wisdom, which is of greater value than any learning
the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge gained through experience alone. Yet, as we make
that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. advancement in our service to Jehovah, we do gain valuable
Because of Jesus course of humility and faithfulness on experience. How can we use it to good advantage?
earth, Jehovah God exalted his Son, giving him authority
over creatures in heaven and on earth.Phil. 2:9-11. (Romans 12:2) And stop being molded by this system of
JESUS WILL RIDE IN THE CAUSE OF TRUTH AND things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that
HUMILITY you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and
perfect will of God.
16
Humility will continue to characterize the activities of the
Son of God. Foretelling how Jesus will act against His Examining Our Spiritual Progress
enemies from an exalted heavenly position, the psalmist sang:
In your splendor go on to success; ride in the cause of truth (James 1:22-25) However, become doers of the word and not
and humility and righteousness. (Ps. 45:4) Along with truth hearers only, deceiving yourselves with false reasoning. 23 For
and righteousness, Jesus Christ will ride in the cause of if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, this one is
humility at Armageddon. And what will happen at the end of
his Thousand Year Reign when the Messianic King has like a man looking at his own face in a mirror. 24 For he looks
brought to nothing all government and all authority and at himself, and he goes away and immediately forgets what
power? Will he display humility? Yes, for he will hand over sort of person he is. 25 But the one who peers into the perfect
the kingdom to his God and Father.Read 1 Corinthians law that belongs to freedom and continues in it has become,
15:24-28.
not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work; and he will be
17
What about us? Will we follow the pattern set by our happy in what he does.
Exemplar and manifest humility? How will we fare when the
King Jesus Christ comes to execute judgment at (Psalm 26:2) Examine me, O Jehovah, and put me to the test;
Armageddon? The cause in which he rides dictates that he Refine my innermost thoughts and my heart.
will save only those who are humble and righteous. Our (2 Corinthians 13:5) Keep testing whether you are in the
developing humility, then, is essential to our survival.
Moreover, just as Jesus Christs life course of humility faith; keep proving what you yourselves are. Or do you not
brought benefits to him and others, our displaying humility recognize that Jesus Christ is in union with you? Unless you
will be beneficial in various ways. are disapproved.
18
What can help us to follow Jesus pattern of humility? How (Psalm 1:2, 3) But his delight is in the law of Jehovah, And
may we strive to be humble despite the challenges we may he reads His law in an undertone day and night. 3 He will be
encounter? These questions will be considered in the next
article. like a tree planted by streams of water, A tree that produces
fruit in its season, The foliage of which does not wither. And
everything he does will succeed.
*** be p. 76 pars. 1-3
(James 1:19) Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone
Be ProgressiveMake Advancement ***
must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger,
Do not view progress simply in terms of privileges of
service that are granted to you. Your advancement is seen, not
in the assignment, but in what you do with it. If given an
assignment that involves teaching, ask yourself: Did I really
employ the art of teaching? Did I handle the material in such Page 95 Unit 11 (a)
a way that it made a difference in the lives of those who heard
it? A Spiritual Person or a Physical Person
The exhortation to use your gift implies using initiative. What Does the Fruitage Reveal?
Do you take the initiative to work with others in the field
ministry? Do you look for opportunities to help members of (Galatians 5:16) But I say, Keep walking by spirit and you

141
will carry out no fleshly desire at all. extent. As we observe the results of the operation of Gods
spirit in our own life as well as in the lives of our fellow
*** w11 12/15 p.16 Christians, we clearly see why we must be guided by it.
Why Be Guided by Gods Spirit? ***
(Galatians 5:22, 23) On the other hand, the fruitage of the
spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
The Worlds Spirit Would Lead Us Astray 23
mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
13
The third reason for wanting Gods spirit to guide us is that
without it we could be led astray by the unholy spirit that is at *** w01 8/1 pp. 15-16 Make Your Advancement Manifest
work in the lives of most people today. The world has its own ***
powerful, impelling force that foments a course totally
opposite of what holy spirit can produce in us. Rather than Manifest the Fruitage of the Spirit
fostering in people the mind of Christ, the worlds spirit 12
causes their thinking and actions to resemble those of the While attaining the oneness in the faith and in the
ruler of the world, Satan. (Read Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:3.) accurate knowledge is important, it is equally important for
When a person gives in to the worlds spirit and takes up us to manifest the fruitage of Gods spirit in every aspect of
practicing the works of the flesh, grave consequences result, our life. Why? This is because maturity, as we have seen, is
preventing him from inheriting Gods Kingdom.Gal. 5:19- not internal or hidden, but it is marked by clearly discernible
21. characteristics that can benefit and build up others. Of course,
14
Jehovah has equipped us to resist the spirit of the world. our quest for spiritual advancement is not merely an effort to
The apostle Paul said to go on acquiring power in the Lord look cultivated or to put on airs. Rather, as we grow
and in the mightiness of his strength . . . that you may be able spiritually, following the leading of Gods spirit, there will be
to resist in the wicked day. (Eph. 6:10, 13) By means of his a wonderful transformation in our attitudes and actions.
spirit, Jehovah fortifies us to withstand Satans efforts to Keep walking by spirit and you will carry out no fleshly
mislead us. (Rev. 12:9) The spirit of the world is strong, and desire at all, said the apostle Paul.Galatians 5:16.
we cannot avoid it altogether. However, we do not have to be 13
Paul went on to list the works of the flesh, which
corrupted by it. Holy spirit is even stronger, and it will help are numerous and manifest. Before a person comes to
us! appreciate Gods requirements, his life is patterned after the
15
Of those who forsook Christianity in the first century, the ways of the world and may be filled with some of the things
apostle Peter said: Abandoning the straight path, they have Paul mentioned: fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct,
been misled. (2 Pet. 2:15) How very thankful we can be that idolatry, practice of spiritism, enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of
we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit anger, contentions, divisions, sects, envies, drunken bouts,
which is from God! (1 Cor. 2:12) With the help of its revelries, and things like these. (Galatians 5:19-21) But as
influence and by taking full advantage of all of Jehovahs the person makes spiritual progress, he gradually gains the
provisions to keep us on the right path spiritually, we can mastery over these undesirable works of the flesh and
succeed in resisting the satanic spirit of this wicked world. makes room for the fruitage of the spirit. This outwardly
Gal. 5:16. visible change is a clear indication that the person is
advancing toward Christian maturity.Galatians 5:22.
Holy Spirit Produces Good Fruitage
16
A fourth reason for wanting Gods spirit to work within us 14
We should note the two expressions the works of the
is that it produces healthy fruitage in the lives of those who flesh and the fruitage of the spirit. Works are the results
are led by it. (Read Galatians 5:22, 23.) Who among us of what one does, the product of ones actions. In other
would not want to be more loving, joyful, and peaceable? words, the items that Paul listed as the works of the flesh are
Who of us would not like to abound in long-suffering, the results either of ones conscious effort or of the influence
kindness, and goodness? Who of us would not benefit from of the fallen human flesh. (Romans 1:24, 28; 7:21-25) On the
developing greater faith, mildness, and self-control? Gods other hand, the expression the fruitage of the spirit implies
spirit produces in us fine qualities that benefit us and those that the qualities listed are, not the results of efforts in so-
with whom we live and serve. Cultivating this fruitage is a called character development or personality enhancement, but
constant work in progress, since there is no limit to the the results of the operation of Gods spirit on a person. Just as
amount of the spirits fruitage that we need and are permitted a tree will bear fruit when it is properly tended, so a person
to produce. will manifest the fruitage of the spirit when holy spirit flows
17
We are wise to take stock of ourselves to be sure that our freely in his life.Psalm 1:1-3.
words and actions give evidence that we are directed by holy
15
spirit and are producing its fruitage. (2 Cor. 13:5a; Gal. 5:25) Another point to consider is Pauls use of the word
If we see that we need to cultivate some aspects of the fruitage to encompass all the desirable qualities that he
fruitage of the spirit, we can cooperate with holy spirit to a mentioned. The spirit does not produce a variety of fruits for
greater degree in producing such qualities. We do this by us to pick our favorite. All the qualities listed by Paullove,
studying each aspect as it is revealed through the pages of the joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith,
Bible and discussed in our Christian publications. Thus we mildness, and self-controlare equally important, and
can discern how the spirits fruitage should be manifested in together they make possible the new Christian personality.
our everyday life and then work to cultivate it to a greater (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10) Therefore, while we may

142
find that certain ones of these qualities are more evident in will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking
our life on account of our own personality and inclinations, it him!
is important that we give attention to all the aspects (James 1:5) So if any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let
mentioned by Paul. By so doing, we can more fully reflect a him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and
Christlike personality in our life.1 Peter 2:12, 21. without reproaching, and it will be given him.
16 (Matthew 6:11) Give us today our bread for this day;
The important lesson we can learn from Pauls
discussion is that in the pursuit of Christian maturity, our (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Pray constantly.
objective is neither to acquire great knowledge and learning
nor to cultivate refined personality traits. It is to gain a free Field Ministry
flow of Gods spirit in our life. To the extent that our thinking (Ezekiel 33:11) Tell them, As surely as I am alive,
and actions are responsive to the leading of Gods spirit, to declares the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, I take no pleasure in
that extent we become spiritually mature. How can we the death of the wicked, but rather that someone wicked
achieve this objective? We must open our heart and mind to changes his way and keeps living. Turn back, turn back from
the influence of Gods spirit. This involves our faithfully your bad ways, for why should you die, O house of Israel?
attending and participating in Christian meetings. We should
also regularly study and meditate on Gods Word, allowing its (John 17:6) I have made your name manifest to the men
principles to guide our dealings with others and the choices whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and
you gave them to me, and they have observed your word.
and decisions we make. Certainly, then, our advancement will
be clearly manifest. (1 Timothy 4:16) Pay constant attention to yourself and to
your teaching. Persevere in these things, for by doing this you
(Galatians 5:19-21) Now the works of the flesh are plainly will save both yourself and those who listen to you.
seen, and they are sexual immorality, uncleanness, brazen
conduct, 20 idolatry, spiritism, hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of (Philippians 4:8) Finally, brothers, whatever things are true,
anger, dissensions, divisions, sects, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild whatever things are of serious concern, whatever things are
parties, and things like these. I am forewarning you about righteous, whatever things are chaste, whatever things are
these things, the same way I already warned you, that those lovable, whatever things are well-spoken-of, whatever things
who practice such things will not inherit Gods Kingdom. are virtuous, and whatever things are praiseworthy, continue
considering these things.
(Galatians 6:3, 4) For if anyone thinks he is something when
he is nothing, he is deceiving himself. 4 But let each one
examine his own actions, and then he will have cause for Page 97 Unit 11 (a)
rejoicing in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison
with the other person. Dress and Grooming
(1 Corinthians 10:31) Therefore, whether you are eating or
Prayer drinking or doing anything else, do all things for Gods glory.
(Daniel 9:4) I prayed to Jehovah my God and made
(Titus 2:10) not stealing from them, but showing complete
confession and said: O Jehovah the true God, the great and trustworthiness, so that in every way they may adorn the
awe-inspiring One, who keeps his covenant and shows loyal teaching of our Savior, God.
love to those who love him and keep his commandments,
(John 17:4) I have glorified you on the earth, having finished *** be study 15 p. 131-p. 133
the work you have given me to do. Good Personal Appearance ***
(John 17:6) I have made your name manifest to the men Study 15
whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and Good Personal Appearance
you gave them to me, and they have observed your word.
What do you need to do?
Page 96 Unit 11 (a)
Be neat, clean, and modest in your
(Psalm 51:10-12) Create in me a pure heart, O God, And put
within me a new spirit, a steadfast one. 11 Do not cast me out clothing. Hair should be neatly combed.
from your presence; And do not take your holy spirit away Posture should convey an attentive
from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation; Stir attitude.
within me a willingness to obey you.
(Psalm 122:6) Ask for the peace of Jerusalem. Those who Why is it important?
love you, O city, will be secure.
Your personal appearance may
(Psalm 122:8) For the sake of my brothers and my influence how others view your
companions I will say: May there be peace within you. Christian beliefs and the way of life that
(Luke 11:4) And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also you represent.
forgive everyone who is in debt to us; and do not bring us
into temptation.
YOUR personal appearance says much about you.
(Luke 11:13) Therefore, if you, although being wicked, know
how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so While Jehovah sees what the heart is, humans generally draw
conclusions from what appears to the eyes. (1 Sam. 16:7)
143
When you are clean and well-groomed, others will likely filled with love, joy, peace, kindness, and faith that is solidly
conclude that you have self-respect, and they will be more based, these will become to us spiritual garments that truly
inclined to listen to you. Your being appropriately dressed honor God.
will also reflect well on the organization that you represent
and on your listeners view of the God you worship. Third, the Bible urges us to consider whether our
appearance is well arranged. At 1 Timothy 2:9, mention is
Guidelines to Apply. The Bible does not set out many made of well-arranged dress. While the apostle Paul was
rules about personal appearance. But it does provide balanced referring to the attire of women, the same principle applies to
principles that can help us make sound decisions. men. Something that is well arranged is neat and orderly.
Fundamental to all of these is the fact that we do all things Whether we have much materially or not, we can have a neat
for Gods glory. (1 Cor. 10:31) What principles come into appearance.
play relative to our personal appearance?
One of the first aspects of personal appearance that is
First, the Bible encourages us to be clean, both in our noticed by others is our hair. It ought to be neat, or well
body and in our clothing. In his Law to ancient Israel, arranged. Both local custom and hereditary factors have a
Jehovah set out requirements regarding cleanliness. For bearing on how people wear their hair. At 1 Corinthians
example, when the priests were on duty, they were to bathe 11:14, 15, we find counsel from the apostle Paul on
and wash their garments at designated times. (Lev. 16:4, 24, hairstyles, which evidently took into consideration both of
26, 28) Christians are not under the Mosaic Law, but these factors. However, when a persons hairstyle conveys the
principles embodied in it are still valid. (John 13:10; Rev. impression that he or she is trying to look like a person of the
19:8) Especially when we are going to a place of worship or opposite sex, this is in conflict with Bible principles.Deut.
sharing in the field ministry, our body, our breath, and our 22:5.
clothing should be clean so that others do not find us
offensive. Those who give talks or share in demonstrations in For men, a neat personal appearance may include being
front of the congregation should set a fine example in this clean-shaven. In areas where mustaches are widely viewed as
regard. Giving attention to our personal appearance shows dignified, any who wear these should keep them neatly
respect for Jehovah and for his organization. trimmed.

Second, the Bible exhorts us to cultivate modesty and Fourth, our appearance should not reflect love of the
soundness of mind. The apostle Paul urged Christian women world and its ways. The apostle John cautioned: Do not be
to adorn themselves . . . with modesty and soundness of loving either the world or the things in the world. (1 John
mind, not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or 2:15-17) Many sinful desires characterize this world. Among
very expensive garb, but in the way that befits women these John mentions the desire of the sinful flesh and the
professing to reverence God. (1 Tim. 2:9, 10) Modesty and showy display of ones possessions. The Scriptures also draw
soundness of mind are also important in the dress and attention to the spirit of rebellion, or disobedience to
grooming of men. authority. (Prov. 17:11; Eph. 2:2) These desires and attitudes
are often manifest in the way that people dress and groom
A person who is modest is concerned about not themselves. As a result, their appearance may be immodest,
needlessly offending others and not drawing undue attention sensual, gaudy, unkempt, careless, or sloppy. As Jehovahs
to himself. Soundness of mind results in discretion, or good servants, we avoid styles that reflect such unchristian ways.
judgment. The person who displays these qualities has
balance that results from respect for godly standards. Rather than imitate the world, how much better to allow
Manifesting these qualities does not rule out dressing in an the fine example of spiritually mature men and women in the
attractive manner but helps us to be sensible in our Christian congregation to influence your dress and grooming!
appearance and to avoid extravagant styles of dress and Young men who hope to be public speakers someday can
grooming. (1 John 2:16) We want to apply these principles observe the attire of those who already qualify to give public
whether we are at a place of worship, sharing in the field talks. All can learn from the example set by individuals who
ministry, or engaging in other activities. Even our casual have loyally shared for many years in the public ministry.
dress should reflect modesty and soundness of mind. At 1 Tim. 4:12; 1 Pet. 5:2, 3.
school or on our secular job, there will be opportunities to do
Fifth, in deciding what is appropriate, we ought to keep
informal witnessing. While we may not be dressed in the
in mind that even the Christ did not please himself. (Rom.
same manner as when attending meetings, conventions, and
15:3) Jesus foremost concern was the doing of Gods will.
assemblies, our dress should still be neat, clean, and modest.
Jesus also put helping others ahead of personal convenience.
Of course, we do not all dress alike. We are not When it comes to certain styles of dress and grooming, if
expected to. People have different tastes, and this is quite anything would raise a barrier between us and the people
proper. But Bible guidelines should always be applied. where we are now serving, what should we do? Imitating the
humble spirit shown by Christ can help us to decide wisely.
The apostle Peter showed that even more important than The apostle Paul set out the principle: In no way are we
hairstyles and outer garments is apparel associated with the giving any cause for stumbling. (2 Cor. 6:3) For that reason
secret person of the heart. (1 Pet. 3:3, 4) When our hearts are we may forgo hairstyles or items of attire that would tend to

144
close the minds of people to whom we want to witness. (1 Peter 3:1, 2) In the same way, you wives, be in subjection
to your husbands, so that if any are not obedient to the word,
(1 Timothy 2:9, 10) Likewise, the women should adorn
themselves in appropriate dress, with modesty and soundness they may be won without a word through the conduct of their
of mind, not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or wives, 2 because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste
very expensive clothing, 10 but in the way that is proper for conduct together with deep respect.
women professing devotion to God, namely, through good
works. Conversation
(Ephesians 4:29) Let a rotten word not come out of your
(1 Corinthians 14:33) For God is a God not of disorder but mouth, but only what is good for building up as the need may
of peace. As in all the congregations of the holy ones, be, to impart what is beneficial to the hearers.

*** be study 15 p. 134 pars. 1-4 Page 98 Unit 11 (a)


Good Personal Appearance ***
(Ecclesiastes 7:16) Do not be overly righteous, nor show
Neat Equipment. Not only should our personal yourself excessively wise. Why should you bring ruin to
appearance be clean and well arranged but our equipment for yourself?
use in the ministry should also be clean and neat.
Disputes
Consider your Bible. It is not possible for all of us to
(Proverbs 29:11) A stupid person gives vent to all his
obtain a new Bible when ours has become worn.
feelings, But the wise one calmly keeps them in check.
Nevertheless, no matter how long we have had our Bible, it
should give evidence that it has been handled with care. (Galatians 5:19, 20) Now the works of the flesh are plainly
seen, and they are sexual immorality, uncleanness, brazen
There are, of course, many ways to pack a witnessing conduct, 20 idolatry, spiritism, hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of
case, but it should be neat. Have you ever seen papers fall out anger, dissensions, divisions, sects,
of a Bible when a publisher was preparing to read a scripture (Galatians 5:22, 23) On the other hand, the fruitage of the
to the householder or perhaps when a brother was giving a spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
talk to the congregation? You were distracted, were you not? 23
mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
If papers kept in a Bible are a source of distraction, it may be (Romans 12:14) Keep on blessing those who persecute; bless
that your keeping them in another place would be consistent and do not curse.
with having your equipment well arranged. Realize, too, that
(Romans 12:17-21) Return evil for evil to no one. Take into
placing the Bible or other religious publications on the floor
consideration what is fine from the viewpoint of all men. 18 If
is viewed as very disrespectful in some cultures.
possible, as far as it depends on you, be peaceable with all
Good personal appearance should be important to us. It men. 19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to
also influences how others view us. But above all, we give it the wrath; for it is written: Vengeance is mine; I will repay,
careful attention because we desire to adorn the teaching of says Jehovah. 20 But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if
our Savior, God, in all things.Titus 2:10. he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this
you will heap fiery coals on his head. 21 Do not let yourself
Family be conquered by the evil, but keep conquering the evil with
(Ephesians 5:21) Be in subjection to one another in fear of the good.
Christ.
(Ephesians 5:24, 25) In fact, as the congregation is in Counsel
subjection to the Christ, wives should also be to their (Ecclesiastes 7:9) Do not be quick to take offense, for the
husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, continue loving your taking of offense lodges in the bosom of fools.
wives, just as the Christ also loved the congregation and gave (Romans 12:16) Have the same attitude toward others as
himself up for it, toward yourselves; do not set your mind on lofty things, but
(Ephesians 5:28) In the same way husbands should love their be led along with the lowly things. Do not become wise in
wives as their own bodies. A man who loves his wife loves your own eyes.
himself,
(Ephesians 6:1) Children, be obedient to your parents in Immoral Temptations
union with the Lord, for this is righteous. Read and discuss
(Proverbs 7:6-10) From the window of my house, Through
(Ephesians 6:4) And fathers, do not be irritating your
my lattice, I looked down, 7 And as I observed the naive
children, but go on bringing them up in the discipline and
ones, I discerned among the youths a young man lacking
admonition of Jehovah.
good sense. 8 He passed along the street near her corner, And
(1 Timothy 5:8) Certainly if anyone does not provide for he marched in the direction of her house 9 In the twilight, in
those who are his own, and especially for those who are the evening, At the approach of night and darkness. 10 Then I
members of his household, he has disowned the faith and is saw a woman meet him, Dressed like a prostitute, with a
worse than a person without faith. cunning heart.

145
(Proverbs 7:21, 22) She misleads him with great audience. The setting was the synagogue in Capernaum.
persuasiveness. She seduces him with smooth speech. Peters home was in this town; his fishing business was here,
22
Suddenly he goes after her, like a bull to the slaughter, Like on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee; many of his
a fool to be punished in the stocks, friends, relatives, and business acquaintances lived here. No
doubt Peter was hoping that his townsmen would see Jesus as
Page 99 Unit 11 (a) he did and that they would share the thrill of learning about
Gods Kingdom from the greatest of all teachers. No such
Continue to Examine Your Spiritual Progress
outcome seemed likely that day.
(1 Corinthians 9:24) Do you not know that the runners in a
2
race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a Many had stopped listening. Some were murmuring
way that you may win it. audibly, objecting to the thrust of Jesus message. Most
(Matthew 20:20, 21) Then the mother of the sons of Zeb troubling to Peter, though, was the reaction of some of Jesus
edee approached him with her sons, doing obeisance and own disciples. Their faces no longer bore that happy
asking for something from him. 21 He said to her: What do expression of enlightenment, the thrill of discovery, the joy of
you want? She replied to him: Give the word that these two learning the truth. Now, they looked upset, even bitter. Some
sons of mine may sit down, one at your right hand and one at spoke up, calling Jesus speech shocking. Refusing to listen
your left, in your Kingdom. anymore, they left the synagogueand quit following Jesus
as well.Read John 6:60, 66.
(Matthew 20:24-28) When the ten others heard about it, they
3
became indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them It was a difficult time for Peter and for his fellow
to him and said: You know that the rulers of the nations lord apostles. Peter did not fully grasp what Jesus said that day.
it over them and the great men wield authority over them. No doubt he could see why Jesus words might seem
26
This must not be the way among you; but whoever wants to offensive if taken at face value. What would Peter do? It was
become great among you must be your minister, 27 and not the first time that his loyalty to his Master was tested; nor
whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. would it be the last. Let us see how Peters faith helped him
28
Just as the Son of man came, not to be ministered to, but to to rise to such challenges and remain loyal.
minister and to give his life as a ransom in exchange for
Loyal When Others Turned Disloyal
many.
4
(Luke 22:24-27) However, there also arose a heated dispute Peter often found himself surprised by Jesus. Again and
among them over which one of them was considered to be the again, his Master acted and spoke in a way that was contrary
greatest. 25 But he said to them: The kings of the nations lord to what people expected of Him. Just a day earlier, Jesus had
it over them, and those having authority over them are called miraculously fed a crowd of thousands. In response, they had
Benefactors. 26 You, though, are not to be that way. But let the attempted to make him king. Yet, he surprised many by
one who is the greatest among you become as the youngest, withdrawing from them, directing his disciples to board a
and the one taking the lead as the one ministering. 27 For boat and sail toward Capernaum. As the disciples made their
which one is greater, the one dining or the one serving? Is it way over water during the night, Jesus surprised them again
not the one dining? But I am among you as the one serving. by walking across the stormy Sea of Galilee, giving Peter an
important lesson in faith.
(Matthew 16:16, 17) Simon Peter answered: You are the 5
In the morning, they soon found that those crowds had
Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 In response Jesus said to
followed them around the lake. Evidently, though, the people
him: Happy you are, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and
were driven by a desire to see Jesus produce more food
blood did not reveal it to you, but my Father in the heavens
miraculously, not by any hunger for spiritual truths. Jesus
did.
rebuked them for their materialistic spirit. (John 6:25-27)
*** ia chap. 22 p. 191 par. 13
That discussion continued at the synagogue in Capernaum,
He Was Loyal in the Face of Tests ***
where Jesus again went against expectations in an effort to
13
Again, Peter was quick to respond. He put into clear, teach a vital but difficult truth.
bold words the conclusion that had formed in the hearts of 6
Jesus wanted those people to see him, not as a source of
many there. You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,
mere physical food, but as a spiritual provision from God, as
he said. We can imagine Jesus giving Peter a smile of
the one whose life and death as a man would make eternal
approval as He commended him warmly. Jesus reminded
life possible for others. So he gave an illustration comparing
Peter that it was Jehovah Godnot any manwho had made
himself to manna, the bread that came down from heaven in
this vital truth so plain to those with genuine faith. Peter had
Moses day. When some objected, he used a vivid illustration,
been enabled to discern one of the greatest truths Jehovah had
explaining that it was necessary to partake of his flesh and his
yet revealedthe identity of the long-promised Messiah, or
blood in order to attain life. It was at this point that the
Christ!Read Matthew 16:16, 17.
objections became insistent. Some said: This speech is
ia chap. 22 pp. 188-194
shocking; who can listen to it? Many of Jesus own disciples
Chapter Twenty-Two
decided to quit following him.John 6:48-60, 66.
He Was Loyal in the Face of Tests
7
What would Peter do? He too must have been baffled by
PETER gazed anxiously around at the faces of Jesus Jesus speech. He did not yet grasp that Jesus must die in

146
order to carry out Gods will. Was Peter tempted to slink off been enabled to discern one of the greatest truths Jehovah had
like those fickle disciples who left Jesus that day? No; yet revealedthe identity of the long-promised Messiah, or
something important set Peter apart from those men. What Christ!Read Matthew 16:16, 17.
was it? 14
This Christ was the one called in ancient prophecy a
8
Jesus turned to his apostles and said: You do not want stone that the builders would reject. (Ps. 118:22; Luke 20:17)
to go also, do you? (John 6:67) He addressed the 12, but it With such prophecies in mind, Jesus revealed that Jehovah
was Peter who spoke up. It was often so. Peter may have been would establish a congregation on the very stone, or rock-
the oldest of them. In any case, he was certainly the most mass, that Peter had just identified. Then he bestowed on
outspoken of the group; rarely, it seems, did Peter hesitate to Peter some very important privileges in that congregation. He
say what was on his mind. In this case, what was on his mind did not give Peter primacy over the other apostles, as some
was this beautiful and memorable statement: Lord, whom have assumed, but he gave him responsibilities. He gave
shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life. Peter the keys of the kingdom. (Matt. 16:19) It would be
John 6:68. Peters privilege to open the hope of entering Gods Kingdom
9 to three different fields of mankindfirst to the Jews, then to
Do not those words touch your heart? Peters faith in
the Samaritans, and finally to the Gentiles, or non-Jews.
Jesus had helped him to build a priceless qualityloyalty.
15
Peter saw clearly that Jesus was the only Savior Jehovah had However, Jesus later stated that those given much
provided and that Jesus saved by means of his sayingshis would have more to answer for, and the truth of those words
teachings about the Kingdom of God. Peter knew that even if is borne out in Peters case. (Luke 12:48) Jesus continued to
there were some things that puzzled him, there was nowhere reveal vital truths about the Messiah, including the certainty
else to go if he wanted Gods favor and the blessing of of his own impending suffering and death at Jerusalem. Peter
everlasting life. was disturbed to hear such things. He took Jesus aside and
10 rebuked him, saying: Be kind to yourself, Lord; you will not
Is that how you feel? Sadly, many in todays world
have this destiny at all.Matt. 16:21, 22.
claim to love Jesus but fail the test of loyalty. Genuine loyalty
16
to Christ requires that we share Peters view of Jesus Peter surely meant well, so Jesus reply must have come
teachings. We need to learn them, to grasp their meaning, and as a surprise. He turned his back on Peter, looked at the rest
to live by themeven when they surprise us by running of the discipleswho had likely been thinking something
contrary to our expectations or personal preferences. Only by similarand said: Get behind me, Satan! You are a
proving loyal can we hope to attain to the everlasting life that stumbling block to me, because you think, not Gods
Jesus wants for us.Read Psalm 97:10. thoughts, but those of men. (Matt. 16:23; Mark 8:32, 33)
Jesus words contain practical counsel for us all. It is only too
Loyal When Corrected
easy to allow human thinking to take priority over godly
11
Not long after that busy time, Jesus led his apostles and thinking. If we do so, even when we mean to help, we may
some disciples on a long trek northward. The snowcapped inadvertently become proponents of Satans purpose rather
peak of Mount Hermon, at the northernmost limit of the than Gods. How, though, did Peter respond?
Promised Land, was at times visible even from the blue 17
Peter must have realized that Jesus was not calling him
waters of the Sea of Galilee. Gradually, that mountain loomed
Satan the Devil in any literal sense. After all, Jesus did not
higher as the group approached, following the rising terrain
speak to Peter as he had to Satan. To Satan, Jesus had said:
up to the villages near Caesarea Philippi. In this lovely
Go away; to Peter, he said: Get behind me. (Matt. 4:10)
setting, with a perspective over much of the Promised Land
Jesus did not cast off this apostle in whom he saw a great deal
to the south, Jesus asked his followers an important question.
of good, but he simply corrected Peters wrong thinking in
12
Who are the crowds saying that I am? he wanted to this matter. It is not hard to see that Peter needed to stop
know. We can just imagine Peter looking into Jesus keen getting in front of his Master as a stumbling block and needed
eyes, sensing again his Masters kindness and his powerful, to get back behind him as a supportive follower.
clear intelligence. Jesus was interested in the conclusions his 18
Did Peter argue, get angry, or sulk? No; he humbly
audiences were drawing from what they saw and heard.
accepted correction. He thus demonstrated loyalty again. All
Jesus disciples answered the question, repeating some of the
those who follow Christ will need correction at times. Only if
popular misconceptions surrounding Jesus identity. But Jesus
we humbly accept discipline and learn from it can we
wanted to know more. Were his closest followers making the
continue to grow closer to Jesus Christ and his Father,
same mistakes? You, though, who do you say I am? he
Jehovah God.Read Proverbs 4:13.
asked.Luke 9:18-20.
13
Again, Peter was quick to respond. He put into clear,
bold words the conclusion that had formed in the hearts of Loyalty Rewarded
many there. You are the Christ, the Son of the living God, 19
Jesus soon made another startling statement: Truly I
he said. We can imagine Jesus giving Peter a smile of
say to you that there are some of those standing here that will
approval as He commended him warmly. Jesus reminded
not taste death at all until first they see the Son of man
Peter that it was Jehovah Godnot any manwho had made
coming in his kingdom. (Matt. 16:28) No doubt those words
this vital truth so plain to those with genuine faith. Peter had
filled Peter with curiosity. What could Jesus possibly mean?
147
Perhaps Peter wondered if the strong correction he had just How did Peters faith move him to be loyal when many
received meant that no such special privileges would be abandoned Jesus?
coming his way.
How did Peters faith and loyalty help him to accept
20
About a week later, however, Jesus took James, John, correction?
and Peter up into a lofty mountainperhaps Mount
How did the transfiguration vision strengthen Peters faith?
Hermon, which was not many miles [25 km] distant. It was
likely nighttime, since the three men were combating In what further ways would you like to imitate Peters faith?
sleepiness. But as Jesus prayed, something happened that
[Blurb on page 191]
drove away any drowsiness.Matt. 17:1; Luke 9:28, 29, 32.
We need to be loyal to Jesus teachings, even when they run
21
Jesus began to change before their eyes. His face started contrary to our expectations or personal preference
to shine, to glow, until it became as brilliant as the sun. His
[Blurb on page 192]
clothes too were glistening white. Then two figures appeared
Only if we humbly accept discipline and learn from it can we
with Jesus, one representing Moses and the other, Elijah.
continue to grow closer to Jesus Christ and his Father,
They conversed with him about his departure that he was
Jehovah God
destined to fulfill at Jerusalemevidently his death and
resurrection. How clear it was that Peter had been wrong to [Picture on page 193]
deny that Jesus had such a painful experience ahead of him! Peter proved loyal even when he had to be corrected
Luke 9:30, 31.
[Picture on page 195]
22
Peter felt compelled to participate somehow in this Along with James and John, Peter was rewarded with a
extraordinary visionand perhaps to prolong it. It looked as thrilling vision
if Moses and Elijah were parting from Jesus. So Peter spoke
up: Instructor, it is fine for us to be here, so let us erect three (1 Peter 1:6, 7) Because of this you are greatly rejoicing,
tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah. Of though for a short time, if it must be, you have been
course, these visionary representations of two of Jehovahs distressed by various trials, 7 in order that the tested quality of
long-dead servants did not need tents. Peter really did not your faith, of much greater value than gold that perishes
know what he was saying. Are you not drawn to the man, despite its being tested by fire, may be found a cause for
though, for his enthusiastic and warm spirit?Luke 9:33. praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
23
Peter, James, and John received another reward that (1 Peter 3:14) But even if you should suffer for the sake of
night. A cloud formed and loomed over them on the righteousness, you are happy. However, do not fear what they
mountain. From it came a voicethe voice of Jehovah God! fear, nor be disturbed.
He said: This is my Son, the one that has been chosen. (1 Peter 4:13, 14) On the contrary, go on rejoicing over the
Listen to him. Then the vision was over, and they were alone extent to which you are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ,
with Jesus on the mountain.Luke 9:34-36. so that you may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the
24
What a gift that transfiguration vision was for Peter revelation of his glory. 14 If you are being reproached for the
and for us! Decades later he wrote of the privilege he had that name of Christ, you are happy, because the spirit of glory,
night of actually seeing a preview of Jesus as a glorious yes, the spirit of God, is resting upon you.
heavenly King and of being one of the eyewitnesses of his
magnificence. That vision confirmed many prophecies of Page 100 Unit 11 (b)
Gods Word and strengthened Peters faith for the trials he
had yet to face. (Read 2 Peter 1:16-19.) It can do the same Make Effective Return Visits
for us if, like Peter, we remain loyal to the Master whom
Jehovah has appointed over us, learning from him, accepting (Matthew 28:19, 20) Go, therefore, and make disciples of
his discipline and correction, and humbly following him day people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the
by day. Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them
to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I
[Footnotes] am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of
things.
We can see the inconstancy of the crowd at the synagogue if
we compare their reactions to Jesus speech here with *** w03 11/15 pp. 13-18 Help Others to Accept the
their expressions just the day before when they Kingdom Message ***
enthusiastically proclaimed him a prophet of God.John Help Others to Accept the Kingdom Message
6:14. Agrippa said to Paul: In a short time you would persuade
me to become a Christian.ACTS 26:28.
From the shores of the Sea of Galilee, that 30-mile [50 km] AT CAESAREA in 58 C.E., Roman Governor Porcius Festus
journey took the group from about 700 feet [210 m] was visited by King Herod Agrippa II and his sister Bernice.
At the invitation of Governor Festus, they came from
below sea level to 1,150 feet [350 m] above, through Jerusalem. The next day, with much pompous show, they
regions of great natural beauty. entered into the audience chamber together with military
commanders as well as men of eminence in the city. At the
TO THINK ABOUT . . . command of Festus, the Christian apostle Paul was brought

148
into their presence. How did it come about that this follower personal opinion. Also, use corroborative evidence to back up
of Jesus Christ stood before the judgment seat of Governor your heartfelt Scriptural statements. (Proverbs 16:23) If you
Festus?Acts 25:13-23. point out that obedient mankind will enjoy life in a paradise
earth, for instance, back that statement up with a Scriptural
2
What Festus told his guests provides an answer to that reference, such as Luke 23:43 or Isaiah 65:21-25. How can
question. He said: King Agrippa and all you men who are you corroborate your Scriptural point? You may use examples
present with us, you are beholding this man concerning from your listeners experience. You might remind him of the
whom all the multitude of the Jews together have applied to simple and cost-free pleasures derived from the beauty of a
me both in Jerusalem and here, shouting that he ought not to sunset, the sweet smell of a flower, the savory taste of a fruit,
live any longer. But I perceived he had committed nothing or the joy of watching a mother bird feed her young. Help
deserving of death. So when this man himself appealed to the him to see that such pleasures are evidence that the Creator
August One, I decided to send him. But concerning him I wants us to enjoy life on earth.Ecclesiastes 3:11, 12.
have nothing certain to write to my Lord. Therefore I brought
9
him forth before you, and especially before you, King When trying to persuade a person to accept a certain Bible
Agrippa, in order that, after the judicial examination has teaching, be careful that your enthusiasm does not cause you
taken place, I might get something to write. For it seems to sound unreasonable, thus closing your listeners mind and
unreasonable to me to send a prisoner and not also to signify heart. The Ministry School book gives this word of caution:
the charges against him.Acts 25:24-27. A blunt statement of truth that exposes as false a cherished
3
The words of Festus indicate that Paul faced trumped-up belief of another person, even when buttressed with the
charges of seditiona crime that carried the death penalty. recitation of a long list of Scripture texts, is generally not well
(Acts 25:11) However, Paul was innocent. The charges received. For example, if popular celebrations are simply
stemmed from the jealousy of religious leaders in Jerusalem. denounced as being of pagan origin, this may not change how
They opposed Pauls work as a Kingdom proclaimer and other people feel about them. A reasoning approach is usually
deeply resented that he helped others to become followers of more successful. Why make a concerted effort to be
Jesus Christ. Under heavy guard, Paul was brought from reasonable? The textbook says: A reasoning manner
Jerusalem to the seaport city of Caesarea, where he appealed encourages discussion, gives people something to think about
to Caesar. From there he would be taken to Rome. later, and leaves the way open for future conversations. It can
be powerfully persuasive.Colossians 4:6.
4
Imagine Paul in the governors palace before a group that
includes the ruler of an important part of the Roman Empire. Persuasion That Appeals to the Heart
10
King Agrippa turns to Paul and says: You are permitted to Let us now take a closer look at Pauls words of defense in
speak. As words flow from Pauls mouth, an extraordinary Acts chapter 26. Notice how he began his discourse. To
thing happens. What Paul says begins to affect the king. introduce his subject, Paul found a legitimate basis on which
Indeed, King Agrippa says: In a short time you would to commend Agrippa, even though the king was in a
persuade me to become a Christian.Acts 26:1-28. scandalous relationship with his sister Bernice. Paul said:
Concerning all the things of which I am accused by Jews,
5
Just think! As a result of Pauls skillful defense, a ruler was King Agrippa, I count myself happy that it is before you I am
affected by the penetrating power of Gods Word. (Hebrews to make my defense this day, especially as you are expert on
4:12) What was it about Pauls defense that was so effective? all the customs as well as the controversies among Jews.
And what can we learn from Paul that can help us in our Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.Acts 26:2, 3.
disciple-making work? If we analyze his defense, two main
11
elements clearly stand out: (1) Paul was persuasive in his Did you notice that Paul acknowledged Agrippas high
presentation. (2) He employed his knowledge of Gods Word office by addressing him by his title, King? This showed
skillfully, even as an artisan uses a tool effectively. respect, and by his wise choice of words, Paul accorded
Agrippa honor. (1 Peter 2:17) The apostle recognized Agrippa
Use the Art of Persuasion as an expert on the complex customs and laws of his Jewish
6
In the book of Acts, Greek terms for persuasion are subjects and said that he was happy that he could make his
repeatedly used in association with Paul. What meaning does defense before such a well-informed ruler. Paul, a Christian,
this have as far as our disciple-making work is concerned? did not act as if he felt superior to Agrippa, who was not a
Christian. (Philippians 2:3) Rather, Paul begged the king to
7
hear him patiently. Thus, Paul created an atmosphere in
In the original language of the Christian Greek Scriptures, which Agrippa, as well as the other listeners, would be more
persuade means to win over or bring about a change of likely to accept what he was about to present. He was laying
mind by the influence of reason or moral considerations, a foundation, a common ground on which to build his
states Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words. arguments.
Examining the root meaning provides further enlightenment.
It conveys the idea of trust. Therefore if you persuade a 12
person to accept a Bible teaching, you have won over his Like Paul before Agrippa, from the introduction to the
trust, so that he puts faith in the truthfulness of that teaching. conclusion of our presentation of the Kingdom message, let
Obviously, it is not enough to tell a person what the Bible us make an appeal to the heart. We can do this by displaying
says in order for him to believe it and act upon it. Your sincere respect for the person to whom we are preaching and
listener must be convinced that what you say is true, whether by showing genuine interest in his or her particular
that individual is a child, a neighbor, a work associate, a background and thinking.1 Corinthians 9:20-23.
schoolmate, or a relative.2 Timothy 3:14, 15.
Use Gods Word Skillfully
13
8
How can you convince a person that what you proclaim Paul desired to motivate his listeners to act upon the good
from Gods Word is the truth? By means of logical reasoning, news. (1 Thessalonians 1:5-7) To that end, he appealed to
sound argument, and earnest entreaty, Paul endeavored to their figurative heart, the seat of motivation. Returning to
bring about a change of mind in individuals to whom he Pauls defense before Agrippa, notice how Paul handled
spoke. Rather than merely declaring that something is true, Gods word aright by referring to things stated by Moses and
therefore, you need to supply satisfying evidence to support the prophets.2 Timothy 2:15.
your statement. How may this be done? Be sure that your
statement is based squarely on Gods Word and not on
149
14
Paul knew that Agrippa was nominally a Jew. Appealing to develop your skills of persuasion in your work of helping
Agrippas knowledge of Judaism, Paul reasoned that his others to accept the Kingdom message.
preaching really involved saying nothing except things the
Prophets as well as Moses stated were going to take place 19
Once a person is found who desires to hear more of the
regarding the Messiahs death and resurrection. (Acts Kingdom message, what else can we as Christian workers
26:22, 23) Addressing Agrippa directly, Paul asked: Do you, do? Our next article offers help.
King Agrippa, believe the Prophets? Agrippa faced a
dilemma. If he said that he rejected the prophets, his
reputation as a Jewish believer would be ruined. But if he [Box/Pictures on page 16]
concurred with Pauls reasoning, he would be taking a How to Be Successful in Making Return Visits
position of public agreement with the apostle and would risk Show a sincere personal interest in people.
being called a Christian. Paul wisely answered his own Select an appealing Bible subject to discuss.
question, saying: I know you believe. How did Agrippas Lay the groundwork for each successive visit.
heart move him to answer? He responded: In a short time Keep thinking about the person after you leave.
you would persuade me to become a Christian. (Acts Return soon, perhaps in a day or two, in order to follow up
26:27, 28) Although Agrippa did not become a Christian, the interest.
Paul evidently affected his heart to some extent with his Keep in mind that your objective is to start a home Bible
message.Hebrews 4:12. study.
15
Pray that Jehovah will make the interest grow.
Have you noticed that Pauls presentation of the good news [Picture on page 15]
consisted of both proclamation and persuasion? Because Paul Paul used persuasion when he was before Governor Festus
used that approach as he handled the word of God aright, and King Agrippa
some who heard him turned from being mere listeners to
becoming believers. This was the case in Thessalonica, where
Paul sought out Jews and God-fearing Gentiles at the
synagogue. The account at Acts 17:2-4 says: According to *** km 7/08 p. 4 PreparationA Key to Effective Return
Pauls custom he went inside to them, and for three sabbaths Visits ***
he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and PreparationA Key to Effective Return Visits
proving by references that it was necessary for the Christ to 1
Jesus thoroughly prepared his disciples to be effective
suffer and to rise from the dead . . . As a result some of them preachers of the good news of the kingdom. (Matt. 4:23;
became believers. Paul was persuasive. He reasoned, 9:35) The training took place in the confined area of
explained, and proved by means of the Scriptures that Jesus Palestine. However, before ascending to heaven, Jesus made
was the long-promised Messiah. The result? A congregation it known that the Christian ministry would be widely
of believers was established. expanded so as to make disciples of people of all the
nations.Matt. 28:19, 20.
16
Can you become more adept in the art of persuasion when 2
That work would involve calling back on individuals who
explaining Gods Word? If so, you will find more personal manifested interest in the good news of Gods Kingdom and
fulfillment and enjoyment in your work of preaching and teaching them to observe all the things that Christ
teaching people about Gods Kingdom. This has been the commanded. To make such effective return visits, we need to
experience of publishers of the good news who have applied be well prepared.
suggestions to use the Bible more in the preaching work.
3
17
Plan Ahead: Some publishers endeavor to raise a question
For example, a traveling overseer of Jehovahs Witnesses at the end of the initial call and then promise to return and
wrote: Quite a number of brothers and sisters are now discuss the answer. They have found that making reference to
carrying a Bible in their hand when they witness from door to information in the Bible Teach book on the return visit has
door. This has helped the publishers to read a scripture to helped them lead right into a Bible study.
many of the people with whom they come in contact. It has
helped both the householder and the publisher to associate the 4
Having just one set of magazines for each month does not
Bible, not just magazines and books, with our ministry. Of mean that we should wait until we receive the next months
course, whether we have the Bible visible when we engage in issues before calling back. It may be possible to stimulate
the preaching activity depends on various factors, including interest by discussing information featured in the magazine
local customs. Nevertheless, we should want to have a the person already has.
reputation for skillful use of Gods Word to persuade others
to accept the Kingdom message. 5
Have an Objective: Before going back, take a few minutes
to review your records and to determine what you want to
Have Gods View of the Ministry accomplish. For example, discuss a point from the
18
Another way to reach the heart of our listeners involves publication you left previously. Or leave additional literature
seeing the ministry from Gods standpoint and being patient. that relates to a prior conversation. If you raised a question
Gods will is that all sorts of men come to an accurate the last time, your objective will surely include answering
knowledge of truth. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4) Is that not our desire? that question. When highlighting a scripture that establishes a
Jehovah is also patient, and his patience affords opportunities point being made, endeavor to read directly from the Bible.
for many to attain to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) Thus, when we
find someone who is willing to lend a hearing ear to the 6
Kingdom message, it may be necessary to call again and Our Goal: Of course, our goal is to start a Bible study. One
again in order to cultivate that interest. It takes time and brother offered a Bible study on a return visit, but the man
patience to watch the seeds of truth grow. (1 Corinthians 3:6) refused. The brother returned with the latest magazines and
The accompanying box entitled How to Be Successful in said, While we are here, we are answering one Bible
Making Return Visits offers suggestions for developing such question for people today. After obtaining the mans
interest. Remember, peoples livestheir problems and comments, the brother read a scripture and an applicable
situationsare constantly changing. It may take many paragraph from a publication used for Bible studies. That led
attempts to find them at home, but it is worth the effort. We to a regular Bible study.
want to give them an opportunity to hear Gods message of
salvation. Therefore, pray to Jehovah God for the wisdom to
150
7 4
Taking the time to prepare for return visits is well worth the If, in our house-to-house work, we willingly preach to
effort. Our joy will be increased, and we may have the people who previously showed no interest at all, should we
privilege of assisting a rightly disposed one on the road to not all the more willingly call back on anyone who shows
life.Acts 13:48. some interest in the Kingdom message?Acts 10:34, 35.
5
*** km 4/98 pp. 3-4 pars. 6-8 WantedMore Bible Many of us are in the truth today because a publisher
Studies *** patiently made return visits on us. If you are one of these, you
6
Improve Personal Organization: Considering the number may ask yourself: What initial impression did I make on that
of magazines, brochures, and books placed, there is no doubt publisher? Did I immediately embrace the Kingdom message
that a great amount of seed is being scattered. These seeds of when I first heard it? Could I have seemed indifferent? We
truth that have been sown hold tremendous potential for should be happy that the publisher who called back judged us
producing new disciples. But would a farmer or a gardener be worthy of a return visit, mustered up boldness by means of
truly satisfied if he continually planted and, after all his God, made the call, and proceeded to teach us the truth.
efforts, never took the time to reap? Hardly. Likewise, a What of those individuals who show some interest at first but
follow-up ministry is necessary. later seem to be avoiding us? A positive attitude is vital, as
the following experience bears out.
7
Do you regularly schedule time to make return visits? Call 6
back promptly on all interest found. Make return visits with While engaging in street witnessing early one morning, two
the objective of starting a Bible study. Do you keep a neat, publishers met a young lady pushing a child in a stroller. The
up-to-date, and well-organized record of your return visits? woman accepted a magazine and invited the sisters to come
Along with the name and address of the householder, be sure to her home the following Sunday. They arrived at the
to record the date of the initial call, any placements, a brief appointed time, but the householder told them she had no
description of what was discussed, and a point that can be time to talk. She did promise, however, to be available the
developed on the next call. Leave space on your record for following week. The sisters were doubtful that she would
additional information to be added after each return visit. keep the appointment, but the lady was waiting for them
when they returned. A study was started, and the womans
8
Analyze How to Make a Return Visit: What are some progress was amazing. Within a short time, she began
points to have in mind when making a return visit on an attending meetings regularly and sharing in field service. She
interested person? (1) Be warm, friendly, enthusiastic, and is now baptized.
informal. (2) Discuss subjects or questions that interest him. 7
(3) Keep the discussion simple and Scriptural. (4) On each Lay Groundwork on the Initial Call: The groundwork for
visit, endeavor to teach the householder something that he a successful return visit is often laid on the initial call. Listen
will recognize as being of personal value to him. (5) Build up carefully to the householders comments. What do they tell
anticipation for the subject to be discussed on the next visit. you? Is he religiously inclined? Is he concerned about social
(6) Do not stay too long. (7) Do not ask questions that issues? Is he interested in science? history? the environment?
embarrass the householder or put him on the spot. (8) Use At the conclusion of the call, you may raise a thought-
discernment so as not to condemn wrong views or bad habits provoking question and promise to discuss the Bibles answer
of the householder before spiritual appreciation has been when you return.
cultivated.See the March 1997 Our Kingdom Ministry
insert for additional help on how to be successful in making 8
For example, if the householder responds to the Bibles
return visits and starting Bible studies. promise of a paradise earth, a further discussion of the topic
may be in order. Just before you leave, you might ask: How
*** km 3/97 p. 3 Muster Up Boldness to Make Return can we be sure that God will fulfill this promise? Then add:
Visits *** Perhaps I can stop by when the rest of the family is at home,
and then I can show you the Bibles answer to this question.
9
Muster Up Boldness to Make Return Visits If the householder has not shown interest in any particular
1
Do you enjoy making return visits? Many publishers do. subject, you could raise one of the questions that are featured
You may have been apprehensive at first, especially when in the presentations on the back page of Our Kingdom
calling back on householders who showed only limited Ministry and use that as the basis for your next discussion.
interest when they were initially contacted. But as you
muster up boldness by means of our God to speak the good Page 101 Unit 11 (b)
news in making return visits, you may be surprised to find
how easy and rewarding this work can be. (1 Thess. 2:2) How QUESTION OUTLINE
so? Have a Positive Attitude
2 (1 Thessalonians 1:6, 7) And you became imitators of us and
For one thing, there is an important difference between a of the Lord, seeing that you accepted the word under much
return visit and the initial call. The return visit is being made
on an acquaintance, not on a stranger, and it is generally tribulation with joy of holy spirit, 7 so that you became an
easier to converse with an acquaintance than with a stranger. example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.
As for the rich rewards that result from sharing in this work,
return visits may lead to productive home Bible studies. (Luke 16:10) The person faithful in what is least is faithful
also in much, and the person unrighteous in what is least is
3
When we work from house to house, we call repeatedly on unrighteous also in much.
people who were not interested when we previously visited
them. Why, then, do we keep calling? We realize that peoples *** w12 10/15 p. 31 par. 15 Let Your Yes Mean Yes ***
circumstances change and that an individual who seemed 15
Proving true to our dedication vow means that we must also
indifferent or even opposed on a previous visit may be be faithful in other important matters. For example: Are you
interested the next time we call. With that in mind, we married? Then continue to honor the precious vow you made
prepare well and pray for Jehovahs blessing so that to love and cherish your marriage mate. Have you signed a
something we say this time will strike a responsive chord. business contract or filled out an application form for
theocratic privileges? Then be true to your commitments and
151
to what you have promised. Have you accepted an invitation down all the pertinent information about the call. Note the
to a meal by someone of humble means? Then do not cancel persons name and how you will recognize him. Put down his
it if a seemingly better invitation is made by someone else. Or address, but do not guess at itcheck to be sure that what
have you promised someone you met in the house-to-house you write is correct. Note the subject you talked about, any
ministry that you would call again to give that person further scriptures that you read, and what literature was placed.
spiritual help? Then by all means let your Yes mean Yes, and 3
If you left the person with a question to be answered on the
Jehovah will bless your ministry.Read Luke 16:10. next call, write it down. Did you learn something about the
person, his family, or his religion? If so, make a notation of
Read and discuss this. Then the next time you call, your making mention of it
(Acts 9:10-17) There was a disciple named Ananias in will demonstrate your personal interest in the individual.
Damascus, and the Lord said to him in a vision: Ananias! Finally, include the day and time that you made the initial call
He said: Here I am, Lord. 11 The Lord said to him: Get up, and when you said you would return. By making good notes,
go to the street called Straight, and look for a man named you will have clear reminders and will be less likely to forget
Saul, from Tarsus, at the house of Judas. For look! he is your promise to return.1 Tim. 1:12.
praying, 12 and in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias
4
come in and lay his hands on him so that he may recover Once your record is complete, put it with the rest of your
sight. 13 But Ananias answered: Lord, I have heard from field service equipmentbook bag, Bible, Reasoning book,
many about this man, about all the harm he did to your holy and literatureso that it will always be handy. It is best to
ones in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief record not-at-homes on house-to-house records that are
priests to arrest all those calling on your name. 15 But the separate from those that you use to make note of your return
Lord said to him: Go! because this man is a chosen vessel to visits. Of course, regardless of the work you put into keeping
me to bear my name to the nations as well as to kings and the track of return visits, the important thing is to make sure that
sons of Israel. 16 For I will show him plainly how many things you go back!
he must suffer for my name. 17 So Ananias went and
entered the house, and he laid his hands on him and said: *** be p. 33-p. 38 How to Do Research ***
Saul, brother, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the
road along which you were coming, has sent me so that you How to Do Research
may recover sight and be filled with holy spirit.
KING SOLOMON pondered and made a thorough
(Acts 9:13, 14) But Ananias answered: Lord, I have heard search, that he might arrange many proverbs in order. Why?
from many about this man, about all the harm he did to your Because he was interested in writing correct words of truth.
holy ones in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the
chief priests to arrest all those calling on your name. (Eccl. 12:9, 10) Luke traced all things from the start with
accuracy in order to narrate in logical order the events of
(Acts 9:15) But the Lord said to him: Go! because this man Christs life. (Luke 1:3) Both of these servants of God were
is a chosen vessel to me to bear my name to the nations as doing research.
well as to kings and the sons of Israel.
What is research? It is a careful search for information
(Acts 9:17) So Ananias went and entered the house, and he about a particular matter. It includes reading, and it requires
laid his hands on him and said: Saul, brother, the Lord Jesus, the application of the principles of study. It may also involve
who appeared to you on the road along which you were interviewing people.
coming, has sent me so that you may recover sight and be
filled with holy spirit. What circumstances call for research? Here are a few
examples. Your personal study or Bible reading may give rise
*** be study 23 p. 159 par. 1 Practical Value Made Clear
to questions that are important to you. Someone to whom you
**
witness may raise a question on which you would like to have
Helping Others to Get the Point. As you witness to specific information for a reply. You may have been assigned
others, do not fail to highlight the practical value of the good to give a talk.
news. Doing so requires that you consider what is on the Consider that assignment to give a talk. The material that
minds of the people in your territory. How can you find out? you have been asked to cover may seem quite general. How
Listen to the news on the radio or television. Look at the front can you apply it locally? Enrich it by doing research. When
page of the newspaper. Also, endeavor to draw people into supported with a statistic or two or with an example that fits
conversation, and listen when they talk. You may find that your material and that touches the lives of those in your
they are grappling with pressing problemsloss of a job, audience, a point that may have seemed obvious becomes
paying the rent, illness, death of a family member, danger informative, even motivating. The published material with
from crime, injustice at the hands of someone in authority, which you are working may have been prepared for readers
breakup of a marriage, keeping young children under control, worldwide, but you need to amplify, illustrate, and apply the
and so forth. Can the Bible help them? Absolutely. points to one congregation or to one person. How should you
proceed?
Page 102 Unit 11 (b)
Before running in search of information, consider your
After the Initial Conversation audience. What will they already know? What do they need
to know? Then identify your objective. Is it to explain? to
*** km 4/00 p. 8 pars. 2-4 Make Sure That You Go Back! convince? to refute? or to motivate? Explaining requires
*** providing further information to make a matter clear.
2
Write It All Down: While a conversation with an interested Although the basic facts may be understood, you may need to
person is still fresh in your mind, take a moment to write
152
expand on when or how to do what is stated. Convincing calls references may refer you to texts that show the fulfillment of
for giving reasons outlining why a thing is so, including a Bible prophecy or of a Law covenant pattern. Realize,
presentation of evidence. Refuting requires a thorough however, that some cross-references are not meant to give
knowledge of both sides of an issue along with a careful such explanations. They may simply refer to parallel thoughts
analysis of evidence used. Of course, we seek not simply or to biographical or geographic information.
strong arguments but ways to present facts in a kindly
manner. Motivating involves reaching the heart. It means Search With a Bible Concordance. A Bible concordance
giving your audience incentive and building up their desire to is an alphabetic index of words used in the Bible. It can help
act on what is being discussed. Real-life examples of those you locate scriptures that relate to the subject on which you
who have taken such action, even in the face of difficulty, can are doing research. As you explore them, you will learn other
help to reach the heart. helpful details. You will see evidence of the pattern of truth
set forth in Gods Word. (2 Tim. 1:13) The New World
Are you now ready to begin? Not quite. Consider how Translation contains a basic listing of Bible Words
much information you need. Time may be an important Indexed. The Comprehensive Concordance is much more
factor. If you are going to present the information to others, extensive. If it is available in your language, it will direct you
how much time will be available for you to do it? Five to all the texts containing each of the principal words in the
minutes? Forty-five minutes? Is the time fixed, such as at a Bible.
congregation meeting, or is it flexible, such as on a Bible
study or a shepherding call? Learning to Use Other Research Tools

Finally, what research tools are available to you? In The box on page 33 lists a number of other research tools
addition to what you have at home, are there more in the that have been provided by the faithful and discreet slave.
library at your Kingdom Hall? Would brothers who have been (Matt. 24:45-47) Many of these have a table of contents, and
serving Jehovah for many years be willing to let you consult many have an index in the back, which is designed to help
their research tools? Is there a public library in your area you pinpoint specific information. At the end of each year,
where reference books can be used if necessary? subject indexes are published in both The Watchtower and
Awake! for that years collection of articles.
Using Our Foremost Research ToolThe Bible
Being familiar with the type of information offered in
If your research project involves the meaning of a these Bible study publications can accelerate the research
scripture, start with the Bible itself. process. Say, for instance, that you want to know about
prophecy, doctrine, Christian conduct, or the application of
Examine the Context. Ask yourself: To whom was this Bible principles. The Watchtower will likely contain what you
text directed? What do the surrounding verses indicate as to seek. Awake! deals with current events, contemporary
the circumstances leading up to the statement or the attitude problems, religion, science, and peoples of various lands.
of the people involved? Such details can often help us Commentary on each account in the Gospels in chronological
understand a text, and they can also add life to a talk in which order appears in The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. A verse-
you might use them. by-verse discussion of entire Bible books is found in such
For example, Hebrews 4:12 is often quoted to show the publications as RevelationIts Grand Climax At Hand!, Pay
power of Gods Word to touch hearts and influence lives. The Attention to Daniels Prophecy!, and the two volumes of
context adds depth to our appreciation of how that can be so. Isaiahs ProphecyLight for All Mankind. In Reasoning
It discusses the experiences of Israel during the 40 years in From the Scriptures, you will find satisfying answers to
the wilderness before entering the land that Jehovah had hundreds of Bible questions that are commonly raised in the
promised to Abraham. (Heb. 3:74:13) The word of God, field service. For a clearer understanding of other religions,
his promise to bring them into a place of rest in harmony with their teachings, and their historical backgrounds, see
his covenant with Abraham, was not dead; it was alive and Mankinds Search for God. A detailed account of the modern-
moving toward fulfillment. The Israelites had every reason to day history of Jehovahs Witnesses is contained in Jehovahs
show faith in it. However, as Jehovah led them from Egypt to WitnessesProclaimers of Gods Kingdom. For a report on
Mount Sinai and on toward the Promised Land, they current developments in the global preaching of the good
repeatedly showed a lack of faith. Thus, by their reaction to news, check the latest Yearbook of Jehovahs Witnesses.
the way that God carried out his word, what was in their Insight on the Scriptures is a Bible encyclopedia and atlas. If
hearts was made manifest. In a similar way in our day, Gods you need details about people, places, things, languages, or
word of promise shows up what is in the hearts of men. historical events associated with the Bible, this is an excellent
resource.
Check the Cross-References. Some Bibles have cross-
references. Does yours? If so, these may help. Note an Watch Tower Publications Index. This Index,
example from the New World Translation of the Holy published in more than 20 languages, will direct you to
Scriptures. First Peter 3:6 points to Sarah as an example information in a wide variety of our publications. It is divided
worthy of imitation by Christian wives. A cross-reference to into a subject index and a scripture index. To use the subject
Genesis 18:12 reinforces that by disclosing that Sarah spoke index, locate a word representing the subject you want to
of Abraham as lord inside herself. Her submission, investigate. To use the scripture index, locate in the list of
therefore, was heartfelt. In addition to such insights, cross- scriptures the one you would like to understand better. If
153
something has been published in your language on that Talk to People
subject or that scripture in the years covered by the Index,
you will find a list of references to consult. Use the key in the People are a rich source of information. When Luke was
front of the Index to decipher the abbreviations for the names compiling his Gospel account, he evidently gathered much
of cited publications. (With that help, for example, you would information by interviewing eyewitnesses. (Luke 1:1-4)
learn that w99 3/1 15 refers to The Watchtower for 1999, Perhaps a fellow Christian can shed light on a matter on
March 1 issue, page 15.) Main headings such as Field which you have been endeavoring to do research. According
Ministry Experiences and Life Stories of Jehovahs to Ephesians 4:8, 11-16, Christ uses gifts in men to help us
Witnesses can be helpful in preparing motivating grow in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God.
presentations for the congregation. Interviewing those with experience in serving God may yield
useful ideas. Conversing with people may also reveal what
Since doing research can be very absorbing, be careful they are thinking, and this can help you to prepare material
not to get sidetracked. Stay focused on your objective to that is truly practical.
search out the material needed for the task at hand. If the
Index refers you to a certain source, turn to the page(s) cited, Evaluate Your Results
then use subheadings and opening sentences of paragraphs to After wheat is harvested, the grain needs to be removed
guide you to the material that fits your needs. If you are from the chaff. So it is with the fruitage of your research.
searching for the meaning of a particular Bible verse, first Before it is ready for use, you need to separate what is
locate the citation on the page to which you are referred. valuable from what is superfluous.
Then examine the surrounding comments.
If you are going to use the information in a talk, ask
Watchtower Library on CD-ROM. If you have access yourself: Does the point I plan to use really contribute
to a computer, you may benefit from using the Watchtower something worthwhile to my presentation of the subject? Or,
Library on CD-ROM, which contains a vast collection of our even though it is interesting material, does it tend to divert
publications. The easy-to-use search program enables you to attention from the subject that I ought to be talking about? If
look for a word, a combination of words, or a scripture you are considering using current events or material from the
citation in any of the publications in the Watchtower Library. ever-changing fields of science or medicine, make sure that
Even if this research tool is not available in your language, the information is up-to-date. Realize, too, that some points in
you may be able to benefit from it in a widely used older publications of ours may have been updated, so
international language with which you are familiar. consider what has most recently been published on the topic.
Other Theocratic Libraries There is a special need to be cautious if you choose to
In his second inspired letter to Timothy, Paul asked the compile information from secular sources. Never forget that
young man to bring the scrolls, especially the parchments, Gods Word is truth. (John 17:17) Jesus occupies the key role
to him at Rome. (2 Tim. 4:13) Paul valued certain writings in the fulfillment of Gods purpose. Therefore, Colossians 2:3
and kept them. You can do the same. Do you save your says: Carefully concealed in him are all the treasures of
personal copies of The Watchtower, Awake!, and Our wisdom and of knowledge. Evaluate the fruits of your
Kingdom Ministry even after these have been considered at research from that perspective. With regard to secular
congregation meetings? If so, you will have them available to research, ask yourself: Is this material exaggerated,
use as research tools, along with the other Christian speculative, or shortsighted? Was it written with a selfish or
publications you have acquired. Most congregations maintain commercial motive? Do other authoritative sources agree
a collection of theocratic publications in a library at the with it? Above all, does it harmonize with Bible truth?
Kingdom Hall. These are for the benefit of the entire Proverbs 2:1-5 encourages us to keep searching for
congregation, for their use while at the Kingdom Hall. knowledge, understanding, and discernment as for silver,
Maintain Personal Files and as for hid treasures. That implies both exertion and rich
rewards. Research takes effort, but doing it will help you to
Keep alert to items of interest that you can use when you find Gods thoughts on matters, to correct mistaken ideas, and
are speaking and teaching. If you find in a newspaper or a to make firm your grasp of the truth. It will also add
magazine a news item, statistic, or example that you can use substance and life to your presentations, making them a
in your ministry, clip it out or copy the information. Include pleasure to deliver and a delight to hear.
the date, the title of the periodical, and perhaps the name of
the author or publisher. At congregation meetings, jot down [Box on page 33]
reasoning points and illustrations that may help you to WHICH OF THESE RESEARCH TOOLS DO YOU
explain the truth to others. Have you ever thought of a good HAVE?
illustration but did not have an opportunity to use it right New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures
away? Write it down, and keep it in a file. After you have
been in the Theocratic Ministry School for some time, you Comprehensive Concordance
will have prepared a number of presentations. Instead of
The Watchtower and Awake!
throwing away your notes from these talks, save them. The
research you have done may prove useful later. Reasoning From the Scriptures

154
Jehovahs WitnessesProclaimers of Gods Kingdom makes an introduction effective?
Insight on the Scriptures 2
Choose Topics of Interest: Our introduction must arouse
Watch Tower Publications Index interest, or the householder may end the conversation. So
when preparing, think about local interests. Are people in the
Watchtower Library on CD-ROM community interested in good government, happy family life,
or an end to war? People generally like to give their opinion,
so prepare a thought-provoking viewpoint question. Could
you use one of the sample introductions from Our Kingdom
Ministry and adapt it to your territory? Why not occasionally
Page 103 Unit 11 (b) practice some introductions during your Family Worship
evening?
(Matthew 10:13) If the house is deserving, let the peace you
wish it come upon it; but if it is not deserving, let the peace 3
Consider Culture and Background: In some places, we
from you return upon you. are expected to state the reason for our visit right away. In
(Luke 10:5, 6) Wherever you enter into a house, say first: other places, it is considered impolite if a visitor does not first
May this house have peace. 6 And if a friend of peace is inquire about the welfare of the householder and perhaps
there, your peace will rest upon him. But if there is not, it will share some personal information. In some areas, the religious
return to you. background of people allows us to refer freely to the Bible in
our introduction. (Acts 2:14-17) However, where people
*** km 12/06 p. 1 par. 2 Call Back on All Who Show a belong to a non-Christian religion, or to no religion at all, it
Measure of Interest *** may be better to mention the Bible on a return visit, rather
than at the outset.Acts 17:22-31.
2
Discern Interest: Even if an individual does not accept
literature, his facial expression, tone of voice, or choice of 4
The Opening Words: Prepare your opening words
words may reveal a measure of appreciation for the Kingdom carefully. Short, simple sentences are usually best. The way
message. On that basis we may make a return visit. One we deliver our opening words is also vital. Be enthusiastic.
brother made calls on an individual for five consecutive Have a sincere, friendly smile that reflects personal interest in
weeks without placing literature. On the sixth visit, the the householder. Following these suggestions will help us to
person accepted literature, and eventually a Bible study was prepare appetizing introductions that will encourage people in
started. our territory to feed at the table of Jehovah.1 Cor. 10:21.

*** km 11/11 p. 1 par. 4 Seeds Must Be Watered in Order *** km 1/92 p. 8 Introductions to Get Householders to
to Grow *** Listen ***
4
Persevere: Satan will not rest in his efforts to take away Introductions to Get Householders to Listen
the word planted in a persons heart. (Mark 4:14, 15)
Therefore, do not give up if you have difficulty finding the 1
What is the most important part of your house-to-house
interested person at home again. Could you send a letter or presentation? Most of us would agree that it is the
leave a note in the door? One pioneer started a doorstep study introduction. If you are unsuccessful in arousing the
with a woman but was unable to find her at home again, so householders interest within the first 30 seconds or so, he
she sent a letter. When the sister eventually found her at will probably terminate the conversation.
home, the woman expressed how deeply touched she was by 2
the personal interest shown to her. As we water seeds of truth, What factors should you consider in preparing an
we can experience the joy that comes from seeing them effective introduction? Analyze the customs and needs of the
sprout, grow to maturity, and bear fruit thirtyfold and sixty people you are likely to meet. Is it customary to exchange
and a hundred.Mark 4:20. pleasantries, or will you be expected to come quickly to the
point? Are there many young couples in your area? What are
their concerns? Are people in your neighborhood conscious
Page 104 Unit 11 (b) of problems facing mankind in general?
You might get them to listen by saying something like this:
The Return Visit
Good morning. My name is . Im bothered when
*** km 12/13 p. 1 How to Prepare Effective Introductions I read about people starving and being killed in wars. Are
*** you? Other questions that may help start a conversation are:
How to Prepare Effective Introductions What is the solution to the worlds problems? Do you
1
Just as a flavorful appetizer builds anticipation for the meal think anyone can rid the earth of todays problems?
that follows, a good introduction opens the door to a positive Suppose a ruler had qualifications like these mentioned at
Scriptural discussion. Effective introductions may vary in Isaiah 9:6, 7? [Read and comment on scripture.]
their length and content, but just like tasty food, they always 3
In some territories, people may show greater concern for
require advance thought and preparation. (Prov. 15:28) What their home and family than for global matters such as world
155
peace. to display good manners in our dealings with others can have
a similar effect.Col. 4:6.
You might arouse interest by asking:
3
Be an Example in Speaking: A friendly smile and a
What kind of life do you see for yourself and your family
warm greeting are vital elements of our presentation of the
in ten years? The Bibles view of the future is most
good news. When we flavor our introduction with warmth
encouraging because it foretells the coming of a ruler who
and sincerity, we let the householder know that we are
will govern by perfect standards. Notice what Isaiah 9:6, 7
genuinely interested in him. When he speaks, listen carefully
says about him.
and show due respect for his opinion. When you speak, do so
4
Do you live in an area where crime and safety are the with tact and graciousness.Compare Acts 6:8.
topic of the day? Some may lend a hearing ear if you use the 4
Occasionally we meet an individual who may be
first introduction under Crime/Safety on page 10 of the
unfriendly, even belligerent. How should we react? Peter
Reasoning book.
urged us to speak in a way that displays a mild temper and
You could say: deep respect. (1 Pet. 3:15; Rom. 12:17, 18) Jesus said that if
a householder rudely rejects the Kingdom message, we
Hello. Were talking with folks about the matter of should simply shake the dust off our feet. (Matt. 10:14) Our
personal safety. There is a lot of crime around us, and it displaying exemplary manners under such circumstances may
affects our lives. Then a question such as What is the eventually soften the heart of the opposer.
solution? or Do you think anyone can rid the earth of these
5
problems? or What if a ruler had qualifications like these? Be an Example in Conduct: Preaching the good news
may help start a conversation. You could then read Isaiah on busy streets and in public places requires that we be
9:6, 7. considerate, never loud or insistent, and that we do not
5 interfere with the flow of passersby. When in the homes of
All of us, including young people of school age, can use interested persons, we ought to maintain proper decorum and
these simple one-scripture presentations. In fact, you may conduct ourselves as gracious guests, showing appreciation
wish to try one when offering magazines. Remember, our for their hospitality. Any children who accompany us must
goal is to assess the extent of the householders interest show respect for the householder and his property and should
before offering literature. Do you not agree that such a be mannerly and attentive when we are conversing. If
Scriptural presentation would be a fine way to discern children are unruly, this will leave an unfavorable impression.
whether our listener manifests genuine interest? We are sure Prov. 29:15.
that many will enjoy using these presentations during
6
January, both when offering magazines and when presenting Our personal appearance should make it obvious to
the regular offer for the month. others that we are ministers of Gods Word. In our dress and
grooming, we should be neither slovenly and unkempt nor
*** km 1/92 p. 8 par. 6 Introductions to Get Householders flashy and extravagant. Our appearance should always be
to Listen *** worthy of the good news. (Compare Philippians 1:27.) By
6 giving careful attention to our appearance and equipment, we
If you make effective use of the first 30 seconds of your will not give others a cause for stumbling or for finding fault
visit, both by your demeanor and by your introduction, you with our ministry. (2 Cor. 6:3, 4) Our exemplary speech and
will likely achieve the important goal of getting householders conduct add an appealing quality to the Kingdom message,
to listen. bringing honor to Jehovah.1 Pet. 2:12.

Page 105 Unit 11 (b) *** jr chap. 3 pp. 38-39 pars. 13-14 You Must Say to
Them This Word ***
*** km 9/96 p. 1 Be an Example in Speaking and in
13
Conduct *** On occasion, Jehovah commanded Jeremiah to
Be an Example in Speaking and in Conduct announce prophetic messages while standing in the gates of
the temple or of Jerusalem. (Jer. 7:2; 17:19, 20) By making
1
The apostle Paul exhorted Timothy to become an such declarations at the gates, Jeremiah reached large
example in speaking and in conduct. (1 Tim. 4:12) We also numbers of people with Jehovahs word. And since many,
should display exemplary speech and conduct, especially including prominent men of the city, merchants, and
when engaging in the ministry, for doing so may determine businessmen, used the same gate habitually, he may have
whether or not we reach the heart of those we meet. spoken to some people repeatedly in an effort to help them
2
understand what they had previously heard. What can we
We need to display all aspects of good manners, learn from this about making return visits on those who have
including courtesy, consideration, kindness, politeness, and shown interest?
tact. By reflecting these qualities, we show that we are aware
14
of how our actions affect the feelings of others. Good Jeremiah knew that lives depended on his work as
manners in the ministry may be compared to seasonings, Gods prophet. Once, when he could not carry out divine
which are used to enhance the flavor of food. Without them, instructions to speak with the people, he sent his friend
wholesome food can taste bland and unappetizing. The failure Baruch in his place. (Read Jeremiah 36:5-8.) How can we
156
imitate Jeremiah in this? When we tell a householder that we you return upon you.
will return, do we keep our word? If we cannot keep an (Romans 12:17, 18) Return evil for evil to no one. Take into
appointment for a return visit or a home Bible study, do we consideration what is fine from the viewpoint of all men. 18 If
arrange for a substitute? Jesus said: Let your word Yes mean possible, as far as it depends on you, be peaceable with all
Yes. (Matt. 5:37) Keeping our word is essential, for we men.
represent the God of truth and order.1 Cor. 14:33, 40.
(1 Corinthians 3:6) I planted, Apollos watered, but God
(Philippians 1:27) Only behave in a manner worthy of the kept making it grow,
good news about the Christ, so that whether I come and see
you or I am absent, I may hear about you and learn that you
are standing firm in one spirit, with one soul, striving side by Page 108 Unit 12 (a)
side for the faith of the good news,
Workshop 3
Page 106 Unit 11 (b)
Make Effective Return Visits
Be Bible Study Conscious
*** bt chap. 11 p. 90 par. 13 Filled With Joy and Holy OPENING DISCUSSION
Spirit ***
13
We too should strive to appeal to those to whom we (2 Timothy 4:5) You, though, keep your senses in all things,
preach. For example, knowing the religious background of a endure hardship, do the work of an evangelizer, fully
person can help us choose topics that will be of particular accomplish your ministry.
interest to him. Also, we can quote portions of the Bible with (Acts 9:11) The Lord said to him: Get up, go to the street
which the individual might be familiar. It may be effective to called Straight, and look for a man named Saul, from Tarsus,
have the person read from his personal copy of the Bible. at the house of Judas. For look! he is praying,
Look for ways to appeal to the hearts of your listeners. (1 Corinthians 3:6) I planted, Apollos watered, but God
kept making it grow,
*** w03 11/15 pp. 14-15 par. 9 Help Others to Accept the
Kingdom Message ***
9
When trying to persuade a person to accept a certain Page 109 Unit 12 (b)
Bible teaching, be careful that your enthusiasm does not
cause you to sound unreasonable, thus closing your listeners Pioneer Service School Review Day 4
mind and heart. The Ministry School book gives this word of
caution: A blunt statement of truth that exposes as false a Unit 10 (a) Appreciate Jesus Role
cherished belief of another person, even when buttressed with
the recitation of a long list of Scripture texts, is generally not (Revelation 19:10) At that I fell down before his feet to
well received. For example, if popular celebrations are simply worship him. But he tells me: Be careful! Do not do that! I
denounced as being of pagan origin, this may not change how am only a fellow slave of you and of your brothers who have
other people feel about them. A reasoning approach is usually the work of witnessing concerning Jesus. Worship God! For
more successful. Why make a concerted effort to be the witness concerning Jesus is what inspires prophecy.
reasonable? The textbook says: A reasoning manner
encourages discussion, gives people something to think about
later, and leaves the way open for future conversations. It can
be powerfully persuasive.Colossians 4:6. Unit 10 (b) Think in Terms of Bible Principles

Challenges in the Return Visit Work (Proverbs 4:7) Wisdom is the most important thing, so
acquire wisdom, And with all you acquire, acquire
Page 107 Unit 11 (b) understanding.

*** be study 39 p. 222 par. 2 Effective Conclusion *** Unit 11 (a) Examine Your Spiritual Progress

If the call is cut short because the householder is abrupt (1 Corinthians 9:24) Do you not know that the runners in a
even rudemuch good can still be accomplished. Keep in race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a
mind the counsel found at Matthew 10:12, 13 and Romans way that you may win it.
12:17, 18. Your mild response could possibly change his view
of Jehovahs Witnesses. That would be a fine Page 110 Unit 12 (b)
accomplishment.
Unit 11 (b) Make Effective Return Visits
(Matthew 10:12, 13) When you enter the house, greet the
household. 13 If the house is deserving, let the peace you wish (1 Corinthians 3:6) I planted, Apollos watered, but God
it come upon it; but if it is not deserving, let the peace from
157
kept making it grow, me, Teacher, and, Lord, and you speak rightly, for I am
such. (Joh 13:13) As his disciples, these apostles were his
Unit 12 (a) Workshop 3 learners, or pupils. Thus he was their Lord, or Master.
Make Effective Return Visits

(Acts 9:11) The Lord said to him: Get up, go to the street QUESTION OUTLINE
called Straight, and look for a man named Saul, from Tarsus, Imitate the Kind of Person Jesus Was
at the house of Judas. For look! he is praying,
(Isaiah 11:2, 3) And the spirit of Jehovah will settle upon
page 111 blank him, The spirit of wisdom and of understanding, The spirit of
Page 112 Unit 13 (a) counsel and of mightiness, The spirit of knowledge and of the
fear of Jehovah. 3 And he will find delight in the fear of
Learn From the Master Jehovah. He will not judge by what appears to his eyes, Nor
reprove simply according to what his ears hear.
OPENING DISUCSSION (John 10:14, 15) I am the fine shepherd. I know my sheep
and my sheep know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I
(1 Peter 1:8) Though you never saw him, you love him. know the Father; and I surrender my life in behalf of the
Though you do not see him now, yet you exercise faith in him sheep.
and are greatly rejoicing with an indescribable and glorious
joy, (1 Peter 2:21) In fact, to this course you were called, because
even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to
(Matthew 11:28-30) Come to me, all you who are toiling and follow his steps closely.
loaded down, and I will refresh you. 29 Take my yoke upon
you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in (Revelation 7:16, 17) They will hunger no more nor thirst
heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves. 30 For my anymore, neither will the sun beat down on them nor any
yoke is kindly, and my load is light. scorching heat, 17 because the Lamb, who is in the midst of
the throne, will shepherd them and will guide them to springs
(Colossians 3:23, 24) Whatever you are doing, work at it of waters of life. And God will wipe out every tear from their
whole-souled as for Jehovah, and not for men, 24 for you eyes.
know that it is from Jehovah you will receive the inheritance
as a reward. Slave for the Master, Christ. (Matthew 6:22) The lamp of the body is the eye. If, then,
your eye is focused, your whole body will be bright.
(Mark 10:13-16) People now began bringing him young
children for him to touch them, but the disciples reprimanded Page 113 Unit 13 (a)
them. 14 At seeing this, Jesus was indignant and said to them:
Let the young children come to me; do not try to stop them, (John 15:13, 14) No one has love greater than this, that
for the Kingdom of God belongs to such ones. 15 Truly I say someone should surrender his life in behalf of his friends.
to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a 14
You are my friends if you do what I am commanding you.
young child will by no means enter into it. 16 And he took
(John 8:29) And the One who sent me is with me; he did not
the children into his arms and began blessing them, laying his
abandon me to myself, because I always do the things
hands on them.
pleasing to him.
(John 15:11-15) These things I have spoken to you, so that
(1 John 5:3) For this is what the love of God means, that we
my joy may be in you and your joy may be made full. 12 This
observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are
is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have
not burdensome,
loved you. 13 No one has love greater than this, that someone
(John 13:34, 35) I am giving you a new commandment, that
should surrender his life in behalf of his friends. 14 You are
you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also love
my friends if you do what I am commanding you. 15 I no
one another. 35 By this all will know that you are my disciples
longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what
if you have love among yourselves.
his master does. But I have called you friends, because I have
made known to you all the things I have heard from my
Father.
(John 13:13) You address me as Teacher and Lord, and
*** cf chap. 16 Jesus . . . Loved Them to the End ***
you are correct, for I am such.
6
It is encouraging to note that Jesus did not give up on his
apostles. His patience eventually bore fruit, for these faithful
*** it-2 p. 266 Lord *** men learned the importance of being both humble and
vigilant. (1 Peter 3:8; 4:7) How can we imitate Jesus in our
While Jesus Christ was on earth, persons besides his
dealings with others? Elders especially need to exercise
disciples called him Lord, or Sir. (Mt 8:2; Joh 4:11) In
patience. Fellow believers may approach an elder with their
these cases the designation was primarily a title of respect or
problems when the elder himself is tired out or distracted by
courtesy. However, to his apostles Jesus showed that calling
his own concerns. At times, those in need of help may be
him Lord involved more than this. Said he: You address
slow to respond to counsel. Nevertheless, patient elders will
158
instruct with mildness and will treat the flock with Willing to Forgive
tenderness. (2 Timothy 2:24, 25; Acts 20:28, 29) Parents 11
Forgiveness is a facet of love. (Colossians 3:13, 14)
also do well to imitate Jesus in showing patience, for at times
Love does not keep account of the injury, states
children may be slow to respond to counsel or correction.
1 Corinthians 13:5. On a number of occasions, Jesus taught
Love and patience will help parents not to give up in their
his followers the importance of forgiveness. He urged them to
efforts to train their children. The rewards of such patience
forgive others not, Up to seven times, but, Up to seventy-
can be great indeed.Psalm 127:3.
seven timesthat is, an unlimited number of times.
Caring for Their Needs (Matthew 18:21, 22) He taught them that a sinner should be
7 forgiven if upon being rebuked, he shows repentance. (Luke
Love is evidenced by unselfish deeds. (1 John 3:17, 18)
17:3, 4) Jesus, however, was not like the hypocritical
It does not look for its own interests. (1 Corinthians 13:5)
Pharisees, who taught by word only; he also taught by
Love moved Jesus to care for the physical and material needs
example. (Matthew 23:2-4) Let us see how Jesus
of his disciples. He often acted in their behalf even before
demonstrated his willingness to forgive even when a trusted
they voiced their needs. When he saw that they were tired, he
friend let him down.
suggested that they accompany him privately into a lonely
12
place and rest up a bit. (Mark 6:31) When he sensed that Jesus had a close relationship with the apostle Peter, a
they were hungry, he took the initiative to feed themalong warmhearted man who at times was impulsive. Jesus
with thousands of others who had come to hear him teach. recognized the good qualities of Peter and extended special
Matthew 14:19, 20; 15:35-37. privileges to him. Peter, along with James and John,
8 personally witnessed certain miracles that the rest of the 12
Jesus recognized the spiritual needs of his disciples and
did not get to see. (Matthew 17:1, 2; Luke 8:49-55) As we
provided for them. (Matthew 4:4; 5:3) In his teaching, he
noted earlier, Peter was one of the apostles who accompanied
often gave them special attention. The Sermon on the Mount
Jesus farther into the garden of Gethsemane on the night of
was delivered especially for the benefit of his disciples.
His arrest. Yet, that same night when Jesus was betrayed and
(Matthew 5:1, 2, 13-16) When he taught with illustrations,
taken into custody, Peter and the other apostles abandoned
privately to his disciples he would explain all things. (Mark
Jesus and fled. Later, Peter proved brave enough to stand
4:34) Jesus foretold that he would appoint a faithful and
outside while Jesus was illegally tried. Still, Peter then
discreet slave to ensure that His followers would be well-fed
became fearful and made a serious mistakethree times he
spiritually during the last days. This faithful slave, composed
lyingly denied that he even knew Jesus! (Matthew 26:69-75)
of a small group of Jesus spirit-anointed brothers on earth,
How did Jesus react? How would you have responded if a
has been providing spiritual food at the proper time ever
close friend let you down in such a way?
since 1919 C.E.Matthew 24:45.
13
9 Jesus was prepared to forgive Peter. He knew that Peter
On the day of his death, Jesus showed in a touching way
was crushed by the weight of his sin. After all, the repentant
his concern for the spiritual welfare of his loved ones. Picture
apostle broke down and gave way to weeping. (Mark
the scene. Jesus was on the stake, suffering excruciating pain.
14:72) On the day of His resurrection, Jesus appeared to
In order to draw breath, he evidently had to push himself up
Peter, likely to comfort and reassure the apostle. (Luke 24:34;
with his feet. This no doubt caused him severe pain as the
1 Corinthians 15:5) Less than two months later, Jesus
weight of his body tore at the nail wounds in his feet and his
dignified Peter by letting him take the lead in giving a
scourged back rubbed against the stake. Speech, which
witness to the crowds in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.
involves breath control, must have been difficult and painful.
(Acts 2:14-40) Let us remember, too, that Jesus did not hold a
Yet, just before he died, Jesus spoke words that showed his
grudge against the apostles as a group for abandoning him.
deep love for his mother, Mary. Seeing Mary and the apostle
On the contrary, after his resurrection, he still called them
John standing nearby, Jesus, in a voice loud enough for
my brothers. (Matthew 28:10) Is it not clear that Jesus did
bystanders to hear, said to his mother: Woman, see! Your
more than just preach forgiveness?
son! Then to John, he said: See! Your mother! (John
14
19:26, 27) Jesus knew that the faithful apostle would care not As disciples of Christ, we need to learn to forgive
just for Marys physical and material needs but also for her others. Why? Unlike Jesus, we are imperfectas are those
spiritual welfare. who may sin against us. From time to time, we all stumble in
10 word and in deed. (Romans 3:23; James 3:2) By forgiving
Caring parents find it beneficial to reflect on Jesus
others when there is a basis for mercy, we clear the way for
example. A father who truly loves his family will provide for
our own sins to be forgiven by God. (Mark 11:25) How, then,
them materially. (1 Timothy 5:8) Balanced, loving family
can we demonstrate a readiness to forgive those who may sin
heads make time for occasional rest and recreation. More
against us? In many cases, love helps us to overlook the
important, Christian parents provide for their childrens
minor sins and shortcomings of others. (1 Peter 4:8) When
spiritual needs. How? Such parents arrange for a regular
those who have wronged us are sincerely repentant, as Peter
family Bible study, and they endeavor to make these study
was, surely we want to imitate Jesus willingness to forgive.
sessions upbuilding and enjoyable for their children.
Rather than holding a grudge, we wisely choose to let go of
(Deuteronomy 6:6, 7) By word and example, the parents
resentment. (Ephesians 4:32) By doing so, we contribute to
teach their children that the ministry is an important activity
the peace of the congregation as well as to our own peace of
and that preparing for and attending Christian meetings is an
mind and heart.1 Peter 3:11.
essential part of their spiritual routine.Hebrews 10:24, 25.
159
Demonstrating His Trust willingness to give his life.
15
Love and trust go hand in hand. Love believes all [Footnotes]
things. (1 Corinthians 13:7) Moved by love, Jesus
The apostles sleepiness was induced by more than physical
demonstrated a willingness to trust his disciples despite their
tiredness. The parallel account at Luke 22:45 says that
imperfections. He had confidence in them and believed that at
Jesus found them slumbering from grief.
heart they really loved Jehovah and wanted to do His will.
Even when they made mistakes, Jesus did not question their Mary was apparently a widow by then, and her other children
motives. For example, when the apostles James and John were evidently not yet disciples of Jesus.John 7:5.
evidently got their mother to request that they sit beside Jesus
This, of course, does not mean that love is gullible or naive. It
in his Kingdom, Jesus did not doubt their loyalty or dismiss
means, rather, that love is not unduly critical or
them as apostles.Matthew 20:20-28.
suspicious. Love refrains from hastily judging the motives
16
Demonstrating his trust, Jesus delegated various of others or concluding the worst about them.
responsibilities to his disciples. On the two occasions when
How Can You Follow Jesus?
he miraculously multiplied food and fed the crowds, he
delegated to his disciples the responsibility of distributing the Why is it important for us to heed Jesus counsel about
food. (Matthew 14:19; 15:36) In preparation for his final forgiveness?Matthew 6:14, 15.
Passover, he assigned Peter and John to go to Jerusalem and
get things ready. They took care of obtaining the lamb, wine, How can we apply the point of Jesus illustration about the
unleavened bread, bitter greens, and any other necessary need for us to be forgiving?Matthew 18:23-35.
items. This was no menial assignment, for celebrating the How did Jesus show consideration for his disciples, and
Passover in the proper manner was a requirement of the how can we imitate him?Matthew 20:17-19; John
Mosaic Law, and Jesus had to live up to that Law. Besides, 16:12.
later that evening Jesus used the wine and the unleavened
bread as important symbols when instituting the Memorial of How did Jesus let Peter know that He had confidence in
his death.Matthew 26:17-19; Luke 22:8, 13. him, and how can we express confidence in others?
Luke 22:31, 32.
17
Jesus saw fit to entrust his disciples with even weightier
responsibilities. As we noted earlier, he delegated to a small (2 Corinthians 5:14, 15) For the love the Christ has compels
group of his anointed followers on earth the important us, because this is what we have concluded, that one man
responsibility of dispensing spiritual food. (Luke 12:42-44) died for all; so, then, all had died. 15 And he died for all so
Recall, too, that he placed in the hands of his disciples the that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but
weighty commission to preach and make disciples. (Matthew for him who died for them and was raised up.
28:18-20) Even now, though invisible and ruling from Describe the love that should be shown toward
heaven, Jesus entrusts his congregation on earth to the care of
spiritually qualified gifts in men.Ephesians 4:8, 11, 12. (Colossians 3:12-17) Accordingly, as Gods chosen ones,
holy and loved, clothe yourselves with the tender affections
18
How can we follow Jesus example in our dealings with of compassion, kindness, humility, mildness, and patience.
others? Our showing trust and confidence in fellow believers 13
Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one
is an expression of our love. Let us remember that love is another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint
positive, not negative. When others disappoint us, which is against another. Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must
bound to happen from time to time, love will keep us from also do the same. 14 But besides all these things, clothe
quickly assuming that their motives are bad. (Matthew 7:1, 2) yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union. 15 Also,
If we keep a positive view of our fellow believers, we will let the peace of the Christ rule in your hearts, for you were
treat them in ways that build up rather than tear down. called to that peace in one body. And show yourselves
1 Thessalonians 5:11. thankful. 16 Let the word of the Christ reside in you richly in
19
Can we imitate Jesus willingness to delegate? It is all wisdom. Keep on teaching and encouraging one another
beneficial for those who have positions of responsibility in with psalms, praises to God, spiritual songs sung with
the congregation to delegate appropriate and meaningful gratitude, singing in your hearts to Jehovah. 17 Whatever it is
tasks to others, trusting them to do their best. Experienced that you do in word or in deed, do everything in the name of
elders can thereby provide necessary and valuable training for the Lord Jesus, thanking God the Father through him.
qualified younger men who are reaching out to help in the (Colossians 4:5, 6) Go on walking in wisdom toward those
congregation. (1 Timothy 3:1; 2 Timothy 2:2) This training is on the outside, making the best use of your time. 6 Let your
vital. As Jehovah continues to speed up Kingdom growth, words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will
qualified men will need to be trained to care for the increase. know how you should answer each person.
Isaiah 60:22. SELF-EXAMINATION:
20
Jesus provided us with a marvelous example in showing (Luke 14:12-14) Next he said also to the man who had
love to others. Of all the ways that we can follow him, invited him: When you spread a dinner or an evening meal,
imitating his love is the most important. In the next chapter, do not call your friends or your brothers or your relatives or
we will discuss the greatest expression of his love for ushis your rich neighbors. Otherwise, they might also invite you in
160
return, and it would become a repayment to you. 13 But when like the religious leaders around them, tried to prevent people
you spread a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the from bringing their young children to Jesus for him to touch.
blind; 14 and you will be happy, because they have nothing Jesus was not pleased with his disciples. He told them: Let
with which to repay you. For you will be repaid in the the young children come to me; do not try to stop them, for
resurrection of the righteous ones. the kingdom of God belongs to suchlike ones. Then, using
(Romans 12:20) But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if the children to provide an object lesson, he said: Truly I say
he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this to you, Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a
you will heap fiery coals on his head. young child will by no means enter into it.Mark 10:13-15.
Note wt09 9/15 pp. 9-20 are 3 study articles 14
Think for a moment about how some of those children
*** w09 9/15 pp. 9-11 pars. 9-19 Keep Christs Mental would feel years later when as men and women, they would
Attitude in You *** recall that Jesus Christ took them into his arms and blessed
9 them. (Mark 10:16) Todays children too will look back with
Jesus linked being lowly in heart with mildness,
fondness on the elders and others who show them
which is part of the fruitage of Gods holy spirit. Therefore,
wholesome, unselfish interest. More important, from an early
along with studying Jesus example, we need Jehovahs holy
age, children who receive such genuine concern in the
spirit, so that we can imitate that example properly. We
congregation learn that Jehovahs spirit is on his people.
should pray for Gods holy spirit and strive to cultivate its
fruitagelove, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, Show Kindness in an Unkind World
goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. (Gal. 5:22, 23) By
15
thus following the pattern of humility and mildness that Jesus Many people today feel that they do not have time to
provided, we will please our heavenly Father, Jehovah. show kindness to others. Daily, therefore, at school, at work,
while traveling, and in the ministry, Jehovahs people must
Jesus Treated Others With Kindness face the spirit of the world. Unkind attitudes may disappoint
10 us, but they should not surprise us. Jehovah inspired Paul to
Kindness too is a part of the holy spirits fruitage.
forewarn us that life in these critical last days would bring
Jesus consistently treated others with kindness. All who
true Christians into contact with those who are lovers of
sincerely sought out Jesus found that he received them
themselves, . . . having no natural affection.2 Tim. 3:1-3.
kindly. (Read Luke 9:11.) What can we learn from the
kindness Jesus showed? A kind person is friendly, gentle, 16
On the other hand, the atmosphere within the true
sympathetic, and gracious. Jesus was like that. He felt pity for Christian congregation provides a refreshing contrast to that
the people because they were skinned and thrown about like of the unkind world. By imitating Jesus, each of us can
sheep without a shepherd.Matt. 9:35, 36. contribute to that wholesome atmosphere. How can we do so?
11 To begin with, many in the congregation need our help and
Jesus also put his pity and compassion into action.
encouragement because they face health problems or other
Consider one instance. For 12 long years, a woman suffered
adverse circumstances. In these last days, such problems
from an abnormal flow of blood. She knew that under the
may be on the rise, but they are by no means new. In Bible
Mosaic Law, her condition made her and anyone who
times, Christians suffered from similar problems.
touched her ceremonially unclean. (Lev. 15:25-27) Still,
Accordingly, helpful actions are as appropriate now as they
Jesus reputation and demeanor must have convinced her that
were for Christians living back then. Paul, for example,
he could and would heal her. She kept saying: If I touch just
exhorted Christians to speak consolingly to the depressed
his outer garments I shall get well. Summoning courage, she
souls, support the weak, be long-suffering toward all.
did so and immediately sensed that she had been healed.
(1 Thess. 5:14) This involves putting Christlike kindness to
12
Jesus was aware that someone had touched him, and work.
he looked around to see who it was. The woman, likely 17
Christians have the responsibility to receive their
fearing a rebuke because she had violated the Law, fell down
brothers kindly, to treat them as Jesus would have treated
trembling at his feet and poured out the whole truth. Did
them, showing genuine concern for those we may have
Jesus reprimand this poor, suffering woman? Far from it!
known for years and those we may never before have met.
Daughter, he said reassuringly, your faith has made you
(3 John 5-8) As Jesus took the initiative in showing
well. Go in peace. (Mark 5:25-34) How comforted she must
compassion to others, so should we, always being refreshing
have been to hear such kind words!
to others.Isa. 32:2; Matt. 11:28-30.
13
Unlike the hardhearted Pharisees, Christ never used 18
Each of us can show kindness by taking an active
his authority to add to others burdens. (Matt. 23:4) On the
interest in the welfare of others. Look for ways and make
contrary, he kindly and patiently taught others Jehovahs
opportunities to do so. Reach out! In brotherly love have
ways. Jesus was an affectionate companion to his followers,
tender affection for one another, urged Paul, adding: In
consistently loving and kind, a true friend. (Prov. 17:17; John
showing honor to one another take the lead. (Rom. 12:10)
15:11-15) Even children felt at ease with Jesus, and he
That means following Christs example, treating others with
obviously felt at ease with them. He was not too busy to stop
warmth and kindness, learning to show love free from
what he was doing to spend time with little ones. On one
hypocrisy. (2 Cor. 6:6) Paul described such Christlike love
occasion, his disciples, still nurturing ideas of self-importance
this way: Love is long-suffering and kind. Love is not
161
jealous, it does not brag, does not get puffed up. (1 Cor. free moral agents. As their descendants, we too are free moral
13:4) Rather than holding grudges against our brothers and agents. What does that mean? It means that we can decide to
sisters, may we heed the admonition: Become kind to one do good or to do bad. In other words, God has given us the
another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another freedom to choose to obey him or to disobey. Along with
just as God also by Christ freely forgave you.Eph. 4:32. such great freedom comes responsibility, accountability.
19
Indeed, our moral decisions mean life or death for us. They
Our striving to cultivate and show Christlike kindness also impact on those around us.
at all times and in every situation brings us rich rewards.
5
Jehovahs spirit will be able to operate freely in the Because of our inherited imperfection, obedience does
congregation, producing the spirits good fruitage. In not come naturally. It is not always easy to obey Gods laws.
addition, when we follow the pattern Jesus left and help Paul faced this struggle. He wrote: I behold in my members
others to do the same, our happy, united worship will bring another law warring against the law of my mind and leading
joy to God himself. Therefore, let us constantly strive to me captive to sins law that is in my members. (Rom. 7:23)
reflect Jesus mildness and kindness in our dealings with Of course, when no sacrifice, pain, or inconvenience is
others. involved, obedience is easier. But how do we respond when
there is a conflict between our desire to be obedient and the
desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes? These negative
*** w09 9/15 Be Obedient and Courageous as Christ Was forces arise from our imperfection as well as from the
*** pp. 11-15 influence of the spirit of the world around us, and they are
Be Obedient and Courageous as Christ Was very powerful. (1 John 2:16; 1 Cor. 2:12) To resist them, we
must prepare our heart before we are faced with a crisis or
Take courage! I have conquered the world. temptation and determine that we will obey Jehovah, come
JOHN 16:33. what may. (Ps. 78:8) We have many Biblical examples of
those who were successful because they did prepare their
JESUS CHRIST always did Gods will. Not once did he heart.Ezra 7:10; Dan. 1:8.
even entertain the thought of disobeying his heavenly Father. 6
One way to prepare our heart is by diligently studying
(John 4:34; Heb. 7:26) But his circumstances on earth did not the Scriptures and Bible-based publications. Imagine yourself
make it easy for him to be obedient. From the beginning of in the following situation. Suppose it is your evening for
his preaching career, Jesus enemies, including Satan himself, personal study. You have just prayed for Jehovahs spirit to
tried to convince, force, or trick Jesus into abandoning his help you to apply what you learn from his Word. You have
course of faithfulness. (Matt. 4:1-11; Luke 20:20-25) These plans to watch a particular movie on TV the next evening.
enemies caused Jesus intense mental, emotional, and physical You have heard that it received favorable reviews; yet you
pain. Ultimately, they succeeded in bringing about his death also know that it contains some immorality and violence.
on the torture stake. (Matt. 26:37, 38; Luke 22:44; John 19:1, 7
17, 18) Through all of this, and despite profound suffering, You ponder Pauls counsel at Ephesians 5:3: Let
Jesus remained obedient as far as death.Read fornication and uncleanness of every sort or greediness not
Philippians 2:8. even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people.
You also recall Pauls advice at Philippians 4:8. (Read.) As
2
Jesus experience as a human on earth taught him new you weigh this inspired counsel, you ask yourself, If I
aspects of obedience. (Heb. 5:8) It may seem that there could deliberately expose my heart and mind to such programs, am
be nothing more for Jesus to learn about serving Jehovah. I following Jesus example of strict obedience to God? What
After all, he had enjoyed intimate association with Jehovah will you do? Will you go ahead and watch that movie
for unknown aeons and had been Gods master worker anyway?
during creation. (Prov. 8:30) Nevertheless, personally 8
enduring in faith as a human despite suffering proved his It would be a mistake to lower our moral and spiritual
complete integrity. Jesus, the Son of God, grew spiritually. standards, perhaps thinking that we are strong enough to
What can we learn from his experience? resist the effects of bad association, including when that
association might be in the form of violent, immoral
3
Although he was a perfect man, Jesus did not try to entertainment. Instead, we must protect ourselves and our
remain perfectly obedient on his own. He prayed for Gods children from the corrupting influences of Satans spirit.
help to remain obedient. (Read Hebrews 5:7.) For us to Computer users take pains to prevent their equipment from
remain obedient, we too need a humble, prayerful attitude. becoming infected with malicious viruses that can destroy
For this reason, the apostle Paul counseled Christians: Keep data, interfere with operation, and even take over the machine
this mental attitude in you that was also in Christ Jesus, who and use it in an attack on other computers. Should we be any
humbled himself and became obedient as far as death. less vigilant in protecting ourselves from Satans crafty
(Phil. 2:5-8) Jesus course proved that obedience is possible acts?Eph. 6:11, ftn.
for humans even amid a wicked society. Granted, Jesus was 9
perfect, but what about imperfect humans like us? Practically every day, in some way we have to choose if
we will do things Jehovahs way or not. In order to gain
Obedient Despite Imperfection salvation, we must obey God and live by his righteous
4
God created Adam and Eve as intelligent creatures and principles. By following Christs example of obedience even
as far as death, we show that our faith is real. Jehovah will
162
reward our faithful course. Jesus promised: He that has preaching and teaching, we too must wage spiritual warfare
endured to the end is the one that will be saved. (Matt. against Satan, the one who has blinded the minds of the
24:13) Clearly, this calls for developing true courage, such as unbelievers. (2 Cor. 4:4) As in Jesus case, our weapons are
Jesus displayed.Ps. 31:24. not fleshly, but powerful by God for overturning strongly
entrenched thingsdeeply ingrained but wrong religious
JesusThe Foremost Example of Courage
notions. (2 Cor. 10:4) In wielding these spiritual weapons, we
10
Surrounded as we are by this worlds attitudes and learn much from Jesus example.
conduct, we need courage to resist contamination. Christians 15
Jesus courage was based, not on bravado, but on faith.
deal with moral, social, financial, and religious pressures that
Ours must be too. (Mark 4:40) How can we acquire real
could cause them to deviate from Jehovahs righteous ways.
faith? Again, Jesus example guides us. He displayed a
Many face family opposition. In some countries, educational
thorough knowledge of the Scriptures and complete
institutions promote the theory of evolution ever more
confidence in them. As a weapon, Jesus wielded, not a literal
aggressively, and atheism is gaining more attention. In the
sword, but the sword of the spirit, Gods Word. Time and
face of such pressures, we cannot merely hunker down and
again he supported his teachings with a reference to the
do nothing. We must take action in order to resist and thus
Scriptures. Often he prefaced his words with the statement:
protect ourselves. Jesus example shows us how we can
It is written, that is, in Gods Word.
succeed.
16
11 To build faith that can withstand the trials of the sort
Jesus told his disciples: In the world you are having
that inevitably come with discipleship, we must read and
tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world.
study the Bible daily and attend Christian meetings, putting
(John 16:33) He never yielded to the worlds influence. He
into our minds the truths that are the foundation of faith.
never allowed the world to stop him from carrying out his
(Rom. 10:17) We must also meditatereflect deeplyon
preaching commission or to cause him to lower his standards
what we learn, letting it sink into our heart. Only faith that is
for true worship and proper conduct; nor should we. In
alive can move us to courageous action. (Jas. 2:17) And we
prayer, Jesus said of his disciples: They are no part of the
must pray for holy spirit because faith is part of the spirits
world, just as I am no part of the world. (John 17:16)
fruitage.Gal. 5:22.
Studying Christs courageous example and reflecting on it
17
can give us the necessary courage to remain separate from the A young sister named Kitty experienced how real faith
world. gives courage. From an early age, she knew that she should
not be ashamed of the good news in school, and she really
Learn Courage From Jesus
wanted to give a good witness to her fellow students. (Rom.
12
Jesus manifested great courage throughout his ministry. 1:16) Each year, she resolved to reach out to others with the
Exercising his authority as Gods Son, he fearlessly entered good news, but she held back for lack of courage. When she
into the temple and threw out all those selling and buying in was in her late teens, she changed schools. She said, This
the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers time, I am going to make up for the opportunities I have let
and the benches of those selling doves. (Matt. 21:12) When slip. Kitty prayed for Christlike courage, discretion, and the
soldiers came to arrest Jesus on his last night on earth, he right opportunity.
courageously stepped forward to protect his disciples, saying: 18
On the first day of school, the students were asked to
If . . . it is I you are looking for, let these go. (John 18:8)
introduce themselves one by one. Several mentioned their
Moments later, he told Peter to put away his sword, thus
religious background, adding that they did not really practice
showing that the source of Jesus confidence lay, not in
their faith. Kitty realized that this was the opportunity she had
earthly weapons, but in Jehovah.John 18:11.
prayed for. When her turn came, she confidently said, I am
13
Jesus fearlessly exposed the unloving false teachers of one of Jehovahs Witnesses, and my source of guidance in
his day and their wrong teachings. Woe to you, scribes and spiritual and moral matters is the Bible. As she continued,
Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut up the kingdom of some students rolled their eyes. But others paid attention and
the heavens before men, Jesus told them. You have later asked questions. The teacher even used Kitty as a good
disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice example of standing up for ones beliefs. Kitty is very glad to
and mercy and faithfulness. . . . You cleanse the outside of the have learned from Jesus courageous example.
cup and of the dish, but inside they are full of plunder and
Show Christlike Faith and Courage
immoderateness. (Matt. 23:13, 23, 25) Jesus disciples
19
would need similar courage because false religious leaders The apostles too realized that their courageous actions
would also persecute them and kill some of them.Matt. must be based on faith. They implored Jesus: Give us more
23:34; 24:9. faith. (Read Luke 17:5, 6.) Having real faith means more
14 than merely believing that God exists. It involves developing
Jesus took a courageous stand even against the demons.
a deep, trusting relationship with Jehovah, not unlike the
On one occasion, he was confronted by a demon-possessed
relationship a small child has with a kind and loving father.
man so strong that no one could bind that man with a chain.
Under inspiration, Solomon wrote: My son, if your heart has
Unintimidated, Jesus expelled the many demons that held the
become wise, my heart will rejoice, even mine. And my
man in their control. (Mark 5:1-13) Today, God has not given
kidneys will exult when your lips speak uprightness. (Prov.
Christians the power to perform such miracles. Still, in our
23:15, 16) In the same way, our courageously standing up for
163
righteous principles brings Jehovah delight, and knowing that standards at all times. In doing so, they reflect Jehovahs
increases our courage. Therefore, let us always imitate Jesus mildness, kindness, and love. When someone is truly
example, taking a courageous stand for righteousness! repentant, broken at heart and crushed in spirit because
of his error, it may not be difficult for elders to readjust such
[Footnote]
a man in a spirit of mildness. (Ps. 34:18; Gal. 6:1) But what
For examples, see Matthew 4:4, 7, 10; 11:10; 21:13; 26:31; about dealing with someone who is defiant and shows little or
Mark 9:13; 14:27; Luke 24:46; John 6:45; 8:17. no remorse?
6
Can You Explain? When a wrongdoer rejects Scriptural counsel or tries to
shift the blame for his wrong, elders and others may feel
What will enable us to remain obedient despite being indignant. Knowing the damage the person has already
imperfect? caused, they may be tempted to express their own feelings
On what is real faith based, and how can this help us to be about the individuals actions and attitude. Yet, anger is
courageous? damaging and does not reflect the mind of Christ. (1 Cor.
2:16; read James 1:19, 20.) Jesus warned some in his day in
What will result from our being obedient and showing no uncertain terms, but never once did he say anything that
Christlike courage? was hateful or was intended to cause pain. (1 Pet. 2:23)
Rather, he left the way open for wrongdoers to repent and
*** w09 9/15 Christs Love Moves Us to Love ***pp 16-20 return to Jehovahs favor. Indeed, one of the main reasons for
Christs Love Moves Us to Love Jesus coming into the world was to save sinners.1 Tim.
1:15.
Jesus, having loved his own that were in the
7
world, loved them to the end.JOHN 13:1. How should Jesus example in this regard affect our
attitude toward those who must be disciplined by the
JESUS set the perfect example of love. Everything about congregation? Remember that the Scriptural arrangement for
himhis speech, his conduct, his teaching, and his sacrificial judicial action within the congregation protects the flock and
deathdemonstrated his love. To the very end of his life on may move a disciplined wrongdoer to repentance. (2 Cor.
earth, Jesus showed love toward those whom he met and 2:6-8) It is tragic that some are unrepentant and must be
especially toward his disciples. disfellowshipped, yet it is heartwarming to know that a large
2
number of such ones later return to Jehovah and his
Jesus outstanding example of love sets a high standard congregation. When elders show a Christlike attitude, they
for his followers to uphold. It also motivates us to show help to smooth the way for the person to have a change of
similar love toward our spiritual brothers and sisters as well heart and eventually to return. In the future, some of these
as toward all others. In this article, we will consider what former wrongdoers may not remember all the Scriptural
congregation elders can learn from Jesus about showing love counsel that the elders gave them, but they will certainly
toward those who commit errors, even grave errors. We will remember that the elders respected their dignity and treated
also discuss how Jesus love moves Christians to take positive them with love.
action in times of hardship, disaster, and illness.
8
3
Elders, therefore, must display the fruitage of the
On the night before Jesus death, his own apostle Peter spirit, principally Christlike love, even under trying
denied him three times. (Mark 14:66-72) Yet, once Peter had circumstances. (Gal. 5:22, 23) They should never rush to put
returned, as Jesus foretold he would, Jesus forgave him. Jesus a wrongdoer out of the congregation. They ought to show that
entrusted Peter with weighty responsibilities. (Luke 22:32; they want erring ones to return to Jehovah. Thus, when a
Acts 2:14; 8:14-17; 10:44, 45) What do we learn from Jesus sinner later has a change of heart, as many do, he may be
attitude toward ones who have serious failings? deeply grateful both to Jehovah and to the gifts in men who
Display Christs Mental Attitude Toward Wrongdoers made it easier for him to return to the congregation.Eph.
4
4:8, 11, 12.
Among the many situations that call for displaying
Christs mental attitude, one that can be particularly Showing Christlike Love in the Time of the End
heartrending is dealing with serious wrongdoing, whether in 9
Luke records an outstanding instance of Jesus practical
the family or in the congregation. Sadly, as the last days of love. Knowing that, in time, Roman soldiers would besiege
Satans system come to their climax, the spirit of the world is the doomed city of Jerusalem, preventing flight, Jesus
taking an ever greater moral toll. The worlds bad or lovingly warned his disciples: When you see Jerusalem
indifferent moral attitudes can rub off on young and old alike, surrounded by encamped armies, then know that the
eroding their resolve to walk the narrow way. In the first desolating of her has drawn near. What should they do?
century, some had to be disfellowshipped from the Christian Jesus gave clear and specific advance instructions. Then let
congregation, and others were reproved. It is similar today. those in Judea begin fleeing to the mountains, and let those in
(1 Cor. 5:11-13; 1 Tim. 5:20) Nevertheless, when elders who the midst of her withdraw, and let those in the country places
handle these matters show Christlike love, this can have a not enter into her; because these are days for meting out
profound impact on the wrongdoer. justice, that all the things written may be fulfilled. (Luke
5
Like Jesus, elders must uphold Jehovahs righteous 21:20-22) After the Roman armies surrounded Jerusalem in
66 C.E., obedient ones acted on these instructions.
164
10
During their flight from Jerusalem, Christians needed to her neat new home, she wept out of gratitude to Jehovah and
show Christlike love for one another, even as Christ had to her brothers. In numerous other cases, displaced local
shown love for them. They surely had to share whatever they Witnesses remained in their temporary accommodations for a
had with one another. But Jesus prophecy reached far beyond year or more after their houses had been rebuilt. Why? In
the razing of that ancient city. He foretold: There will be order to make their new home available to relief workers.
great tribulation such as has not occurred since the worlds What an example of displaying Christs mental attitude!
beginning until now, no, nor will occur again. (Matt. 24:17,
Showing Christs Attitude Toward the Sick
18, 21) Before and during that great tribulation yet ahead,
we too may face hardships and deprivations. Having Christs 16
Relatively few of us have had to deal with a major
mental attitude will help us to get through them. natural disaster. But practically everyone must face health
11 problems, either his own or those of family members. Jesus
At that time, we will need to follow Jesus example,
mental attitude toward the sick serves as an example for us.
showing unselfish love. In this connection, Paul counseled:
His love moved him to feel pity for them. When crowds
Let each of us please his neighbor in what is good for his
brought their ailing ones to him, he cured all who were
upbuilding. For even the Christ did not please himself . . .
faring badly.Matt. 8:16; 14:14.
Now may the God who supplies endurance and comfort grant
you to have among yourselves the same mental attitude that 17
Today, Christians do not have Jesus miraculous power
Christ Jesus had.Rom. 15:2, 3, 5. to heal, but they do share Jesus compassionate attitude
12 toward the sick. How is that demonstrated? As one evidence,
Peter, a recipient of Jesus love, similarly urged
elders show that they have Christs mental attitude by making
Christians to cultivate unhypocritical brotherly affection
and monitoring arrangements to help sick ones in the
and to display obedience to the truth. They are to love one
congregation, following in principle the course of action
another intensely from the heart. (1 Pet. 1:22) Today, we
mentioned at Matthew 25:39, 40. (Read.)
need more than ever to develop such Christlike qualities.
Already, pressures on all of Gods people are intensifying. No 18
Of course, one does not have to be an elder to do good
one should put his confidence in any element of this old to others. Consider the case of 44-year-old Charlene, who had
world, as the recent turmoil in the worlds financial system cancer and was told she had ten days to live. Seeing her need
vividly demonstrates. (Read 1 John 2:15-17.) Rather, as the and the toll that caregiving was taking on her devoted
end of this system draws ever nearer, we need to draw closer husband, two spiritual sisters, Sharon and Nicolette, made
to Jehovah and to one another, cultivating genuine friendships themselves available full-time to help her through her final
within the congregation. Paul counseled: In brotherly love days. Those days stretched into six weeks, but the two sisters
have tender affection for one another. In showing honor to showed their love to the end. Its difficult when you know
one another take the lead. (Rom. 12:10) And Peter someone will not recover, observes Sharon. Yet, Jehovah
emphasized the point further, saying: Above all things, have made us strong. The experience drew us closer to him and to
intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude each other. Charlenes husband says: I will always
of sins.1 Pet. 4:8. remember the kind and practical support of these two dear
13 sisters. Their pure motive and positive attitude made this last
Around the world, Jehovahs Witnesses are known for
trial easier for my faithful Charlene and gave me badly
putting their Christlike love into action. Consider the
needed physical and emotional relief. I will be grateful to
Witnesses who responded to the call for help after storms and
them forever. Their self-sacrifice strengthened my faith in
hurricanes devastated widespread areas of the southern
Jehovah and my love for our whole association of brothers.
United States in 2005. Moved by Jesus example, more than
20,000 volunteered, many leaving comfortable homes and 19
In this series of three articles, we have considered five
secure jobs to help their afflicted brothers. aspects of Jesus mental attitude and how we can adopt his
14 pattern of thinking and course of action. Let us be mild-
In one area, the storm surge reached as far as 50 miles
tempered and lowly in heart, as Jesus was. (Matt. 11:29)
[80 km] inland, propelling a wall of water up to 30 feet
May we also strive to treat others kindly, even when their
[10 m] high. When the water receded, a third of the homes
imperfections and weaknesses come to the fore. Let us
and other buildings in its path were left totally ruined.
courageously obey all of Jehovahs requirements, even in the
Witness volunteers from several countries brought skills,
face of trials.
tools, and building materials to the region and were willing to
do whatever work was needed. Two fleshly sisters, widows, 20
Finally, let us show Christlike love to all our brothers,
packed their belongings into a pickup truck and drove over as Christ himself did, to the end. Such love identifies us as
2,000 miles [3,000 km] to help. One of those sisters has Jesus true followers. (John 13:1, 34, 35) Yes, let your
remained in the area, still helping the local relief committee brotherly love continue. (Heb. 13:1) Do not hold back! Use
and serving as a regular pioneer. your life to praise Jehovah and to help others! Jehovah will
15 bless your sincere efforts.
More than 5,600 homes of Witnesses and others in the
region have been rebuilt or repaired. How did local Witnesses [Footnote]
feel about receiving this tremendous outpouring of love? One
See the article Do More Than Say: Keep Warm and Well
sister whose home was destroyed had moved into a tiny
Fed in the October 15, 1986, issue of The Watchtower.
trailer with a leaky roof and a broken stove. The brothers
built her a modest but comfortable house. Standing in front of
165
Can You Explain? saw them going and many got to know it, and from all the
cities they ran together on foot and got there ahead of them.
How can elders display Christs mental attitude toward 34
Well, on getting out, he saw a large crowd, and he was
wrongdoers?
moved with pity for them, because they were as sheep
Why is imitating Christs love especially important in this without a shepherd. And he started to teach them many
time of the end? things.
How can we reflect Christs mental attitude toward the sick? (John 11:33-44) When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews
who had come with her weeping, he groaned within himself
and became troubled. 34 He said: Where have you laid him?
(Matthew 9:10-13) Later as he was dining in the house, They said to him: Lord, come and see. 35 Jesus gave way to
look! many tax collectors and sinners came and began dining tears. 36 At that the Jews began to say: See, what affection he
with Jesus and his disciples. 11 But on seeing this, the had for him! 37 But some of them said: Could not this man
Pharisees said to his disciples: Why does your teacher eat who opened the eyes of the blind man prevent this one from
with tax collectors and sinners? 12 Hearing them, he said: dying? 38 Then Jesus, after groaning again within himself,
Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are came to the tomb. It was, in fact, a cave, and a stone was
ill do. 13 Go, then, and learn what this means: I want mercy, lying against it. 39 Jesus said: Take the stone away. Martha,
and not sacrifice. For I came to call, not righteous people, the sister of the deceased, said to him: Lord, by now he must
but sinners. smell, for it has been four days. 40 Jesus said to her: Did I
not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory
(Luke 7:36-50) Now one of the Pharisees kept asking him to of God? 41 So they took the stone away. Then Jesus raised
dine with him. So he entered the house of the Pharisee and his eyes heavenward and said: Father, I thank you that you
reclined at the table. 37 And look! a woman who was known have heard me. 42 True, I knew that you always hear me; but I
in the city to be a sinner learned that he was dining in the spoke on account of the crowd standing around, so that they
house of the Pharisee, and she brought an alabaster jar of may believe that you sent me. 43 When he had said these
perfumed oil. 38 Taking a position behind him at his feet, she things, he cried out with a loud voice: Lazarus, come out!
wept and began to wet his feet with her tears, and she wiped 44
The man who had been dead came out with his feet and
them off with the hair of her head. Also, she tenderly kissed hands bound with wrappings, and his face was wrapped with
his feet and poured the perfumed oil on them. 39 Seeing this, a cloth. Jesus said to them: Free him and let him go.
the Pharisee who had invited him said to himself: If this man
were really a prophet, he would know who and what kind of (Luke 22:24-27) However, there also arose a heated dispute
woman it is who is touching him, that she is a sinner. 40 But among them over which one of them was considered to be the
in reply Jesus said to him: Simon, I have something to say to greatest. 25 But he said to them: The kings of the nations lord
you. He said: Teacher, say it! 41 Two men were debtors to it over them, and those having authority over them are called
a certain lender; the one was in debt for 500 denarii, but the Benefactors. 26 You, though, are not to be that way. But let the
other for 50. 42 When they did not have anything to pay him one who is the greatest among you become as the youngest,
back with, he freely forgave them both. Therefore, which one and the one taking the lead as the one ministering. 27 For
of them will love him more? 43 In answer Simon said: I which one is greater, the one dining or the one serving? Is it
suppose it is the one whom he forgave more. He said to him: not the one dining? But I am among you as the one serving.
You judged correctly. 44 With that he turned to the woman (John 15:11-15) These things I have spoken to you, so that
and said to Simon: Do you see this woman? I entered your my joy may be in you and your joy may be made full. 12 This
house; you gave me no water for my feet. But this woman is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have
wet my feet with her tears and wiped them off with her hair. loved you. 13 No one has love greater than this, that someone
45
You gave me no kiss, but this woman, from the hour that I should surrender his life in behalf of his friends. 14 You are
came in, did not stop tenderly kissing my feet. 46 You did not my friends if you do what I am commanding you. 15 I no
pour oil on my head, but this woman poured perfumed oil on longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what
my feet. 47 Because of this, I tell you, her sins, many though his master does. But I have called you friends, because I have
they are, are forgiven, because she loved much. But the one made known to you all the things I have heard from my
who is forgiven little, loves little. 48 Then he said to her: Father.
Your sins are forgiven. 49 Those reclining at the table with (Luke 19:2-10) Now a man named Zacchaeus was there; he
him started to say among themselves: Who is this man who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 Well, he was
even forgives sins? 50 But he said to the woman: Your faith trying to see who this Jesus was, but he could not see because
has saved you; go in peace. of the crowd, since he was short. 4 So he ran ahead and
climbed a sycamore tree in order to see him, for he was about
Page 114 Unit 13 (a) to pass that way. 5 Now when Jesus got to the place, he
looked up and said to him: Zacchaeus, hurry and get down,
(Mark 6:31-34) And he said to them: Come, you for today I must stay in your house. 6 With that he hurried
yourselves, privately into an isolated place and rest up a down and joyfully welcomed him as a guest. 7 When they
little. For there were many coming and going, and they had saw this, they were all muttering: He went as a guest to the
no leisure time even to eat a meal. 32 So they set off in the house of a man who is a sinner. 8 But Zacchaeus stood up
boat for an isolated place to be by themselves. 33 But people and said to the Lord: Look! The half of my belongings,
166
Lord, I am giving to the poor, and whatever I extorted from temple, but by night he would go out and lodge on the
anyone, I am restoring four times over. 9 At this Jesus said to mountain called the Mount of Olives. 38 And all the people
him: Today salvation has come to this house, because he too would come to him early in the morning to hear him in the
is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man came to seek and temple.
to save what was lost.
(Revelation 2:2) I know your deeds, and your labor and Page 115 Unit 13 (a)
endurance, and that you cannot tolerate bad men, and that you
put to the test those who say they are apostles, but they are Have a Balanced View of Material Things
not, and you found them to be liars.
(Matthew 6:24-33) No one can slave for two masters; for
(Revelation 2:13) I know where you are dwelling, that is, either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick
where the throne of Satan is; and yet you keep holding fast to to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God
my name, and you did not deny your faith in me even in the and for Riches. 25 On this account I say to you: Stop being
days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was killed by your anxious about your lives as to what you will eat or what you
side, where Satan is dwelling. will drink, or about your bodies as to what you will wear.
(Revelation 2:19) I know your deeds, and your love and Does not life mean more than food and the body than
faith and ministry and endurance, and that your deeds of late clothing? 26 Observe intently the birds of heaven; they do not
are more than those you did at first. sow seed or reap or gather into storehouses, yet your
(Revelation 3:4) Nevertheless, you do have a few heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth more than
individuals in Sardis who did not defile their garments, and they are? 27 Who of you by being anxious can add one cubit
they will walk with me in white ones, because they are to his life span? 28 Also, why are you anxious about clothing?
worthy. Take a lesson from the lilies of the field, how they grow; they
do not toil, nor do they spin; 29 but I tell you that not even Sol
omon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. 30 Now if
Work Hard, as Jesus Did this is how God clothes the vegetation of the field that is here
(John 9:4) We must do the works of the One who sent me today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much
while it is day; the night is coming when no man can work. rather clothe you, you with little faith? 31 So never be anxious
(John 17:4) I have glorified you on the earth, having finished and say, What are we to eat? or, What are we to drink? or,
the work you have given me to do. What are we to wear? 32 For all these are the things the
nations are eagerly pursuing. Your heavenly Father knows
*** it-2 p. 68 Jesus Christ *** that you need all these things. 33 Keep on, then, seeking first
the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things
Jesus set an example for his disciples by being will be added to you.
hardworking, rising early, serving on into the night. (Lu
21:37, 38; Mr 11:20; 1:32-34; Joh 3:2; 5:17) More than once
he spent the night in prayer, as he did the night before giving *** it-2 p. 68 Jesus Christ ***
the Sermon on the Mount. (Mt 14:23-25; Lu 6:127:10)
Another time, after serving during the night, he rose while it Balanced view of material things. He was not, however,
was still dark and headed for a lonely place to pray. (Mr an ascetic, practicing self-denial to an extreme degree without
1:32, 35) His privacy often interrupted by the crowds, he, regard for the circumstances at hand. (Lu 7:33, 34) He
nevertheless, received them kindly and began to speak to accepted many invitations to meals and even banquets,
them about the kingdom of God. (Lu 9:10, 11; Mr 6:31-34; visiting the homes of persons of some wealth. (Lu 5:29; 7:36;
7:24-30) He experienced tiredness, thirst, and hunger, at 14:1; 19:1-6) He contributed to the enjoyment at a wedding
times forgoing food for the sake of the work to be done.Mt by changing water into fine wine. (Joh 2:1-10) And he
21:18; Joh 4:6, 7, 31-34; compare Mt 4:2-4; 8:24, 25. appreciated good things done for him. When Judas expressed
indignation at Lazarus sister Marys use of a pound of
(John 4:6) In fact, Jacobs well was there. Now Jesus, tired perfumed oil (worth over $220, or about a years wages of a
out as he was from the journey, was sitting at the well. It was laborer) to anoint Jesus feet and professed concern for the
about the sixth hour. poor who could have benefited from the sale of the oil, Jesus
(John 4:8) (For his disciples had gone off into the city to buy said: Let her alone, that she may keep this observance in
food.) view of the day of my burial. For you have the poor always
with you, but me you will not have always. (Joh 12:2-8; Mr
(John 4:32-35) But he said to them: I have food to eat that 14:6-9) The inner garment he wore when arrested, woven
you do not know about. 33 So the disciples said to one from the top throughout its length, was evidently a quality
another: No one brought him anything to eat, did he? garment. (Joh 19:23, 24) Nevertheless, Jesus always gave
34
Jesus said to them: My food is to do the will of him who spiritual things first place and was never overly concerned
sent me and to finish his work. 35 Do you not say that there about material things, even as he counseled others.Mt 6:24-
are yet four months before the harvest comes? Look! I say to 34; 8:20; Lu 10:38-42; compare Php 4:10-12.
you: Lift up your eyes and view the fields, that they are white
for harvesting. Already (Luke 12:15) Then he said to them: Keep your eyes open
(Luke 21:37, 38) So by day he would be teaching in the and guard against every sort of greed, because even when a
167
person has an abundance, his life does not result from the deception found in his mouth. 23 When he was being insulted,
things he possesses. he did not insult in return. When he was suffering, he did not
(Mark 6:31) And he said to them: Come, you yourselves, threaten, but he entrusted himself to the One who judges
privately into an isolated place and rest up a little. For there righteously.
were many coming and going, and they had no leisure time
even to eat a meal. *** w05 1/1 pp. 10-11 Hold to the Pattern Jesus Set ***
(Luke 5:29) Then Levi spread a big reception feast for him Facing Persecution
in his house, and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and 16
Jesus indicated another way that his disciples would
others who were dining with them.
imitate him, saying: This is my commandment, that you love
(John 2:1-10) And on the third day a marriage feast took one another just as I have loved you. (John 15:12, 13, 17)
place in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. There are many reasons why Christians love their brothers.
2
Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the marriage On this occasion, Jesus above all had in mind the hatred they
feast. 3 When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to would face from the world. He said: If the world hates you,
him: They have no wine. 4 But Jesus said to her: Woman, you know that it has hated me before it hated you. . . . A slave
why is that of concern to me and to you? My hour has not yet is not greater than his master. If they have persecuted me,
come. 5 His mother said to those serving: Do whatever he they will persecute you also. (John 15:18, 20) Yes, even in
tells you. 6 Now there were six stone water jars sitting there being persecuted, Christians are like Jesus. They need to
as required by the purification rules of the Jews, each able to develop a strong, loving bond to help them withstand that
hold two or three liquid measures. 7 Jesus said to them: Fill hatred.
the jars with water. So they filled them to the brim. 8 Then
17
he said to them: Now draw some out and take it to the Why would the world hate Christians? Because, like
director of the feast. So they took it. 9 When the director of Jesus, they are no part of the world. (John 17:14, 16) They
the feast tasted the water that had now been turned into wine, are neutral in military and political matters, and they observe
not knowing where it came from (although the servants who Bible principles, respecting the sanctity of life and keeping to
had drawn out the water knew), the director of the feast called a high moral code. (Acts 15:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11)
the bridegroom 10 and said to him: Everyone else puts out Their primary goals are spiritual, not material. They live in
the fine wine first, and when people are intoxicated, the the world, but as Paul wrote, they do not use it to the full.
inferior. You have saved the fine wine until now. (1 Corinthians 7:31) True, some have expressed admiration
for the high standards of Jehovahs Witnesses. But Jehovahs
(John 12:2-8) So they spread an evening meal for him there,
Witnesses do not make compromises to seek admiration or
and Martha was serving them, but Lazarus was one of those
acceptance. As a result, most in the world do not understand
dining with him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of perfumed oil,
them, and many hate them.
genuine nard, very costly, and she poured it on the feet of
Jesus and wiped his feet dry with her hair. The house became 18
Jesus apostles saw the worlds intense hatred when
filled with the scent of the perfumed oil. 4 But Judas Iscar Jesus was arrested and executed, and they saw how Jesus
iot, one of his disciples, who was about to betray him, said: handled that hatred. In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus
5
Why was this perfumed oil not sold for 300 denarii and religious opponents came to arrest him. Peter tried to protect
given to the poor? 6 He said this, though, not because he was him with a sword, but Jesus said to Peter: Return your sword
concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief and had to its place, for all those who take the sword will perish by
the money box and used to steal the money put in it. 7 Then the sword. (Matthew 26:52; Luke 22:50, 51) In earlier times,
Jesus said: Let her alone, so that she may keep this Israelites fought with the sword against their enemies. Now,
observance in view of the day of my burial. 8 For you always though, things were different. Gods Kingdom was no part
have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. of this world and had no national boundaries to protect.
(Luke 10:38-42) Now as they went on their way, he entered (John 18:36) Soon Peter would be part of a spiritual nation,
into a certain village. Here a woman named Martha received whose members would have their citizenship in heaven.
him as a guest in her house. 39 She also had a sister called (Galatians 6:16; Philippians 3:20, 21) Henceforth, then,
Mary, who sat down at the feet of the Lord and kept listening Jesus followers would handle hatred and persecution the way
to what he was saying. 40 Martha, on the other hand, was Jesus didfearlessly but peaceably. They would confidently
distracted with attending to many duties. So she came to him leave the outcome of matters in Jehovahs hands and rely on
and said: Lord, does it not matter to you that my sister has him for the strength to endure.Luke 22:42.
left me alone to attend to things? Tell her to come and help 19
Years later, Peter wrote: Christ suffered for you,
me. 41 In answer the Lord said to her: Martha, Martha, you
leaving you a model for you to follow his steps closely. . . .
are anxious and disturbed about many things. 42 A few things,
When he was being reviled, he did not go reviling in return.
though, are needed, or just one. For her part, Mary chose the
When he was suffering, he did not go threatening, but kept on
good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.
committing himself to the one who judges righteously.
(1 Peter 2:21-23) Just as Jesus warned, Christians have
Follow His Steps Closely
experienced harsh persecution over the years. Both in the first
(1 Peter 2:21-23) In fact, to this course you were called,
century and in our own time, they have followed Jesus
because even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you
example and built up a wonderful record of faithful
to follow his steps closely. 22 He committed no sin, nor was
endurance, demonstrating that they are peaceful integrity
168
keepers. (Revelation 2:9, 10) May we all individually do (Isaiah 30:20, 21) Though Jehovah will give you bread in the
likewise when circumstances demand it.2 Timothy 3:12. form of distress and water in the form of oppression, your
Grand Instructor will no longer hide himself, and you will see
(John 14:21) Whoever has my commandments and observes your Grand Instructor with your own eyes. 21 And your own
them is the one who loves me. In turn, whoever loves me will ears will hear a word behind you saying, This is the way.
be loved by my Father, and I will love him and will clearly Walk in it, in case you should go to the right or in case you
show myself to him. should go to the left.
(John 14:23) In answer Jesus said to him: If anyone loves (Genesis 18:20-32) Then Jehovah said: The outcry against
me, he will observe my word, and my Father will love him, Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is very
and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. heavy. 21 I will go down to see whether they are acting
according to the outcry that has reached me. And if not, I can
get to know it. 22 Then the men left from there and went
toward Sodom, but Jehovah remained with Abraham. 23 Then
Abraham approached and said: Will you really sweep away
Page 116 Unit 13 (b) the righteous with the wicked? 24 Suppose there are 50
righteous men within the city. Will you, then, sweep them
Conduct Progressive Bible Studies Part 1 away and not pardon the place for the sake of the 50
righteous who are inside it? 25 It is unthinkable that you
OPENING DISCUSSION would act in this manner by putting the righteous man to
(Luke 6:40) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone death with the wicked one so that the outcome for the
who is perfectly instructed will be like his teacher. righteous man and the wicked is the same! It is unthinkable
(Luke 24:32) And they said to each other: Were not our of you. Will the Judge of all the earth not do what is right?
26
hearts burning within us as he was speaking to us on the road, Then Jehovah said: If I find in Sodom 50 righteous men
as he was fully opening up the Scriptures to us? in the city, I will pardon the whole place for their sake.
27
But Abraham again responded: Please, here I have
(Matthew 28:20) teaching them to observe all the things I
presumed to speak to Jehovah, whereas I am dust and ashes.
have commanded you. And look! I am with you all the days 28
Suppose the 50 righteous should lack five. Because of the
until the conclusion of the system of things.
five will you destroy the whole city? To this he said: I will
(1 Timothy 4:16) Pay constant attention to yourself and to not destroy it if I find there 45. 29 But yet again he spoke to
your teaching. Persevere in these things, for by doing this you him and said: Suppose 40 are found there. He answered: I
will save both yourself and those who listen to you. will not do it for the sake of the 40. 30 But he continued:
Jehovah, please, do not become hot with anger, but let me
QUESTION OUTLINE go on speaking: Suppose only 30 are found there. He
Our Grand Instructor answered: I will not do it if I find 30 there. 31 But he
continued: Please, here I have presumed to speak to
*** it-2 p. 1070 Teacher, Teaching *** Jehovah: Suppose only 20 are found there. He answered: I
TEACHER, TEACHING will not destroy it for the sake of the 20. 32 Finally he said:
Jehovah, please, do not become hot with anger, but let me
A teacher is one who imparts information or skill to others speak just once more: Suppose only ten are found there. He
by word or by example. An effective teacher usually provides answered: I will not destroy it for the sake of the ten.
explanation or supporting evidence or he employs some other
(Job 38:4) Where were you when I founded the earth? Tell
method intended to help hearers to accept and remember
me, if you think you understand.
what they hear.
(Job 38:8) And who barricaded the sea behind doors When it
Jehovah God, the Creator, is the Grand Instructor, or burst out from the womb,
Teacher, of his servants. (1Ki 8:36; Ps 27:11; 86:11; 119:102;
(Job 38:31) Can you tie the ropes of the Kimah constellation
Isa 30:20; 54:13) The creative works themselves teach that an
Or untie the cords of the Kesil constellation?
all-wise God exists, and they provide a field for investigation
and observation that to the present day has only been partially (Isaiah 40:26) Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has
tapped. (Job 12:7-9) Additionally, by means of special created these things? It is the One who brings out their army
revelations, Jehovah God has taught humans his name, by number; He calls them all by name. Because of his vast
purposes, and laws. (Compare Ex 4:12, 15; 24:12; 34:5-7.) dynamic energy and his awe-inspiring power, Not one of
Such revelations are found in Gods Word, the Bible, and them is missing.
serve as a basis for correct teaching regarding his will. (Ro (Isaiah 44:14-17) There is one whose work is to cut down
15:4; 2Ti 3:14-17) Gods spirit also functions as a teacher. cedars. He selects a certain type of tree, an oak, And he lets it
Joh 14:26. grow strong among the trees of the forest. He plants a laurel
tree, and the rain makes it grow. 15 Then it becomes fuel for a
Page 117 Unit 13 (b) man to make fires. He takes part of it to warm himself; He
builds a fire and bakes bread. But he also makes a god and
(Job 36:22) Look! God is exalted in his power; What worships it. He makes it into a carved image, and he bows
instructor is like him? down before it. 16 Half of it he burns up in a fire; With that
169
half he roasts the meat that he eats, and he is satisfied. He
also warms himself and says: Ah! I am warm as I watch the (John 7:45, 46) Then the officers went back to the chief
fire. 17 But the rest of it he makes into a god, into his carved priests and Pharisees, and the latter said to them: Why did
image. He bows down to it and worships it. He prays to it and you not bring him in? 46 The officers replied: Never has any
says: Save me, for you are my god. man spoken like this.
(John 4:9-11) So the Samaritan woman said to him: How
is it that you, despite being a Jew, ask me for a drink even Page 118 Unit 13 (b)
though I am a Samaritan woman? (For Jews have no
dealings with Samaritans.) 10 In answer Jesus said to her: If (Matthew 7:28, 29) When Jesus finished these sayings, the
you had known of the free gift of God and who it is who says effect was that the crowds were astounded at his way of
to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him, and he teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as a person having
would have given you living water. 11 She said to him: Sir, authority, and not as their scribes.
you do not even have a bucket for drawing water, and the
well is deep. From what source, then, do you have this living Preparing to Conduct Progressive Bible Studies
water?
(Ezra 7:10) Ezra had prepared his heart to consult the Law
(John 14:26) But the helper, the holy spirit, which the Father of Jehovah and to practice it, and to teach its regulations and
will send in my name, that one will teach you all things and judgments in Israel.
bring back to your minds all the things I told you.
(2 Samuel 12:1-7) So Jehovah sent Nathan to David. He
Jesus, the Master Teacher came in to him and said: There were two men in one city,
(John 13:13) You address me as Teacher and Lord, and the one rich and the other poor. 2 The rich man had very many
you are correct, for I am such. sheep and cattle; 3 but the poor man had nothing but one
(Matthew 4:7) Jesus said to him: Again it is written: You small female lamb, which he had bought. He cared for it, and
must not put Jehovah your God to the test. it grew up together with him and his sons. It would eat from
the little food he had and drink from his cup and sleep in his
(Matthew 4:10) Then Jesus said to him: Go away, Satan! arms. It became as a daughter to him. 4 Later a visitor came to
For it is written: It is Jehovah your God you must worship, the rich man, but he would not take any of his own sheep and
and it is to him alone you must render sacred service. cattle to prepare a meal for the traveler who had come to him.
(John 7:16) Jesus, in turn, answered them and said: What I Instead, he took the poor mans lamb and prepared it for the
teach is not mine, but belongs to him who sent me. man who had come to him. 5 At this David grew very angry
(John 7:18) Whoever speaks of his own originality is seeking against the man, and he said to Nathan: As surely as Jehovah
his own glory; but whoever seeks the glory of the one who is living, the man who did this deserves to die! 6 And he
sent him, this one is true and there is no unrighteousness in should pay for the lamb four times over, because he did this
him. and showed no compassion. 7 Then Nathan said to David:
You are the man! This is what Jehovah the God of Israel
*** be p. 57 Develop Ability as a Teacher *** says: I myself anointed you as king over Israel, and I rescued
you from the hand of Saul.
Honor Jehovah
Being a teacher in imitation of Christ is not simply a *** km 8/04 p. 1 pars. 2-4 Part 2Conducting
matter of being able to give an interesting discourse. True, Progressive Bible Studies ***
people marveled at Jesus winsome words. (Luke 4:22) But 2
what was Jesus objective in speaking well? It was to honor How to Prepare: Begin by praying to Jehovah about the
Jehovah, not to draw attention to himself. (John 7:16-18) And person and his needs. Ask Jehovah to help you reach the
he urged his followers: Let your light shine before men, that students heart. (Col. 1:9, 10) To get the theme clearly in
they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father mind, take a moment to consider the title of the chapter or
who is in the heavens. (Matt. 5:16) That counsel should lesson, the subheadings, and any visual aids. Ask yourself,
influence the way we teach. It ought to be our aim to avoid What is the thrust of the material? This will help you to
anything that would detract from that objective. So when focus on the main points as you conduct the study.
planning what we will say or how we will say it, we do well 3
Carefully review the material paragraph by paragraph.
to ask ourselves, Will this deepen appreciation for Jehovah, Identify the answers to the printed questions, marking only
or will it attract attention to me? the key words and phrases. Analyze how the cited scriptures
For example, illustrations and real-life examples can be relate to the main point of the paragraph, and decide which
used effectively in teaching. However, when a lengthy ones to read during the study. You may find it helpful to make
illustration is developed or an experience is related in brief notes in the margin of the publication. The student
excessive detail, the point of the instruction may be lost. should clearly see that what he is learning is from Gods
Similarly, telling stories that merely entertain detracts from Word.1 Thess. 2:13.
the purpose of our ministry. In effect, the teacher is drawing 4
Personalize the Lesson: Next, consider the lesson with
attention to himself instead of accomplishing the real goal of the particular student in mind. Try to anticipate his questions
theocratic education. and the points that he may have difficulty understanding or

170
accepting. Ask yourself: What does he need to understand or Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples: Who are
work on in order to make spiritual progress? How can I reach men saying the Son of man is?
his heart? Then adapt your teaching accordingly. At times, (Matthew 16:15) He said to them: You, though, who do you
you may see a need to prepare an illustration, an explanation, say I am?
or a series of questions to help the student grasp the meaning
of a certain point or scripture. (Neh. 8:8) But avoid inserting
Page 122 Unit 14 (a)
additional information that contributes little to the theme. A
brief review at the end of the study will help him to retain the
(Matthew 17:24-27) After they arrived in Capernaum, the
main points.
men collecting the two drachmas tax approached Peter and
said: Does your teacher not pay the two drachmas tax?
25
(Acts 16:14) And a woman named Lydia, a seller of purple He said: Yes. However, when he entered the house, Jesus
from the city of Thyatira and a worshipper of God, was spoke to him first and said: What do you think, Simon?
listening, and Jehovah opened her heart wide to pay attention From whom do the kings of the earth receive duties or head
to the things Paul was saying. tax? From their sons or from the strangers? 26 When he said:
(Colossians 1:9, 10) That is also why from the day we heard From the strangers, Jesus said to him: Really, then, the
of it, we have never stopped praying for you and asking that sons are tax-free. 27 But that we do not cause them to stumble,
you may be filled with the accurate knowledge of his will in go to the sea, cast a fishhook, and take the first fish that
all wisdom and spiritual comprehension, 10 so as to walk comes up, and when you open its mouth, you will find a
worthily of Jehovah in order to please him fully as you go on silver coin. Take that and give it to them for me and you.
bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the (John 11:26) and everyone who is living and exercises faith
accurate knowledge of God; in me will never die at all. Do you believe this?
(Proverbs 20:5) The thoughts of a mans heart are like deep
(Proverbs 15:28) The heart of the righteous one meditates waters, But the discerning man draws them out.
before answering, But the mouth of the wicked blurts out bad
things.
*** be study 50 p. 259 pars. 1-2 Effort to Reach the Heart
***
Page 119 Unit 13 (b)
Well-chosen questions can help you to draw out what is in
someones heart. You might ask: How do you feel
Help Your Student Prepare for the Study
about . . . ? What convinced you that . . . ? How would
(Luke 6:40) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone
you react if . . . ? Yet, be careful not to barrage people with
who is perfectly instructed will be like his teacher.
questions. You might tactfully preface your questions with,
Page 120 no citations Do you mind if I ask . . . ? Discovering what is in the heart
Page 121 Unit 14 (a) is a painstaking task that cannot be rushed. In most cases trust
Conduct Progressive Bible Studies Part 2 must be built up over a period of time before a person is
willing to reveal his inmost feelings. Even then, care must be
exercised so that the person does not feel that you are asking
OPENING DISCUSSION
about things that are not your business.1 Pet. 4:15.
(Matthew 17:24-26) After they arrived in Capernaum, the
men collecting the two drachmas tax approached Peter and The way you react to what you hear also requires
said: Does your teacher not pay the two drachmas tax? discernment. Remember that your objective is to understand
25
He said: Yes. However, when he entered the house, Jesus people so that you can determine what Bible-based
spoke to him first and said: What do you think, Simon? information is likely to motivate them. Quickly suppress any
From whom do the kings of the earth receive duties or head urge to expose the wrongness of their viewpoints. Instead, be
tax? From their sons or from the strangers? 26 When he said: alert to discern the feelings behind the words. Then you will
From the strangers, Jesus said to him: Really, then, the know how to respond; and your student, feeling understood,
sons are tax-free. will more likely think seriously about what you say.Prov.
(Mark 1:22) And they were astounded at his way of 16:23.
teaching, for he was teaching them as one having authority,
and not as the scribes. (Proverbs 12:18) Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a
sword, But the tongue of the wise is a healing.
(Luke 6:40) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone
who is perfectly instructed will be like his teacher.

QUESTION OUTLINE
Page 123 Unit 14 (a)
Jesus Employed Questions in His Teaching
(Matthew 16:13) When he had come into the region of Why Jesus Illustrations Helped People
171
(Matthew 7:24-27) Therefore, everyone who hears these crowds by illustrations. Indeed, without an illustration he
sayings of mine and does them will be like a discreet man would not speak to them, 35 in order to fulfill what was
who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain poured down spoken through the prophet who said: I will open my mouth
and the floods came and the winds blew and lashed against with illustrations; I will proclaim things hidden since the
that house, but it did not cave in, for it had been founded on founding.
the rock. 26 Furthermore, everyone hearing these sayings of
mine and not doing them will be like a foolish man who built *** it-1 p. 1175 Illustrations ***
his house on the sand. 27 And the rain poured down and the
That the Scriptures use the word parabole with a wider
floods came and the winds blew and struck against that
meaning than the English parable is shown at Matthew
house, and it caved in, and its collapse was great.
13:34, 35, where Matthew points out that it had been foretold
(Matthew 16:1-4) Here the Pharisees and Sadducees concerning Jesus Christ that he would speak with
approached him, and to test him, they asked him to display to illustrations (NW), parables (KJ, RS). Psalm 78:2, quoted
them a sign from heaven. 2 In reply he said to them: When by Matthew in this connection, refers to a proverbial saying
evening falls, you say, It will be fair weather, for the sky is (Heb., mashal), and for this term the Gospel writer
fire-red, 3 and in the morning, It will be wintry, rainy employed the Greek word parabole. As the literal meaning
weather today, for the sky is fire-red but gloomy. You know of the Greek term implies, the parabole served as a means
how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but the signs of of teaching or communicating an idea, a method of
the times you cannot interpret. 4 A wicked and adulterous explaining a thing by placing it beside another similar thing.
generation keeps seeking a sign, but no sign will be given it (Compare Mr 4:30.) Most English translations simply use the
except the sign of Jonah. With that he went away, leaving anglicized form parable to render the Greek term.
them behind. However, this translation does not serve to convey the full
meaning in every instance.
*** be study 45 p. 242 par. 4 Illustrations/Examples That
Teach *** For example, at Hebrews 9:9 and 11:19 most translations
find it necessary to resort to expressions other than parable.
lamp is used and what responsibility this implied for In the first of these texts the tabernacle, or tent, used by Israel
them. (Matt. 5:15, 16) He followed up his illustration of the in the wilderness, is called by the apostle Paul an illustration
lost sheep with a comment about the joy in heaven over a [parabole; figure, KJ; similitude, Ro; symbolic, AT,
sinner who repents. (Luke 15:7) And after his story about the RS] for the appointed time. In the second text Abraham is
neighborly Samaritan, Jesus asked his listener a pointed described by the apostle as having received Isaac back from
question and followed it up with some direct counsel. (Luke the dead in an illustrative way (NW) (en parabolei;
10:36, 37) In contrast, Jesus explained his illustration about figuratively speaking, JB, RS). The saying, Physician, cure
the various kinds of soil and the one about the weeds in the yourself, is also termed a parabole. (Lu 4:23) In view of
field only to those humble enough to ask, not to the crowds. this, a more basic term such as illustration (NW) serves for
(Matt. 13:1-30, 36-43) Three days before his death, Jesus a consistent rendering of parabole in all cases.
spoke an illustration about murderous vineyard cultivators.
He made no application; none was needed. The chief priests Another related term is allegory (Gr., allegoria),
and the Pharisees . . . took note that he was speaking about which is a prolonged metaphor in which a series of actions
them. (Matt. 21:33-45) So the nature of the illustration, the are symbolic of other actions, while the characters often are
attitude of the audience, and your objective all have a bearing types or personifications. Paul uses the Greek verb allegore
on whether application is required and, if so, how much. o (allegorize) at Galatians 4:24, concerning Abraham, Sarah,
and Hagar. It is translated be an allegory (KJ), be an
(Matthew 13:10-15) So the disciples came and said to him: allegorical utterance (AT), and stand as a symbolic drama
Why do you speak to them by the use of illustrations? 11 In (NW).
reply he said: To you it is granted to understand the sacred The apostle John also used a distinct term (paroimia)
secrets of the Kingdom of the heavens, but to them it is not that denotes comparison (Joh 10:6; 16:25, 29); it is
granted. 12 For whoever has, more will be given him, and he variously translated figure, figurative language,
will be made to abound; but whoever does not have, even parable, proverb, and comparison (AT, KJ, NW). Peter
what he has will be taken from him. 13 That is why I speak to employed the same term with regard to the proverb of the
them by the use of illustrations; for looking, they look in dog returning to its vomit and the sow to rolling in the mire.
vain, and hearing, they hear in vain, nor do they get the sense 2Pe 2:22.
of it. 14 And the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled in their
case. It says: You will indeed hear but by no means get the Effectiveness. Illustrations or parables as a powerful
sense of it, and you will indeed look but by no means see. teaching device are effective in at least five ways: (1) They
15
For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive, and arrest and hold attention; few things command interest like an
with their ears they have heard without response, and they experience or a story. Who is not familiar with the
have shut their eyes, so that they might never see with their illustrations of the prodigal son and of the one lost sheep? (2)
eyes and hear with their ears and get the sense of it with their They stir up the thinking faculty; one of the best mental
hearts and turn back and I heal them. exercises is to search out the meaning of a comparison, to get
the abstract truths thus presented. (3) They stir emotions and,
(Matthew 13:34, 35) All these things Jesus spoke to the
by the usually evident practical application of the truths to the
172
hearer, reach the conscience and the heart. (4) They aid that a personal relationship with him is possible. This can be
memory; one can later reconstruct the story and make accomplished by reflecting on such texts as Psalm 139:1-3,
application of it. (5) They preserve the truth, for they are Luke 21:1-4, and John 6:44 and by helping your listeners to
always applicable and understandable in any time and age. appreciate the depth of Jehovahs loving attachment to his
This is because they deal with life and natural things, whereas faithful servants. (Rom. 8:38, 39) Explain that Jehovah looks
mere words may change in meaning. This is one reason why beyond our mistakes and sees our entire life course, our zeal
the Bible truths remain in full clarity today, just as they were for pure worship, our love for his name. (2 Chron. 19:2, 3;
at the time they were spoken or written. Heb. 6:10) He remembers even the smallest details about our
makeup, and he will, in a remarkable way, restore to life all
Purposes. The primary purpose of all illustrations is, as
those in the memorial tombs. (John 5:28, 29; Luke 12:6, 7)
shown in the foregoing, to teach. But the illustrations of the
Since humans are made in the image and likeness of God, a
Bible also serve other purposes:
discussion of his qualities will often strike a responsive chord
(1) The fact that a person sometimes has to dig to get their in the inner person.Gen. 1:27.
full, deep, heart-reaching meaning tends to turn back those
who do not love God but who have a mere surface interest Page 124 Unit 14 (a)
and therefore do not desire the truth in their hearts. (Mt Be pp. 240-246
13:13-15) God is not gathering such persons. Illustrations Study 45
moved the humble ones to ask for further explanation; the Illustrations/Examples That Teach
proud refused to do so. Jesus said: Let him that has ears
listen, and though the majority of the crowds hearing Jesus What do you need to do?
went their way, the disciples would come and ask for
Use figures of speech, stories, or real-life
explanation.Mt 13:9, 36.
experiences in ways that contribute to your
(2) Illustrations conceal truths from those who would objectives as a teacher.
misuse them and who desire to entrap Gods servants. Jesus
Why is it important?
answered the Pharisees catch question with the illustration of
the tax coin, concluding: Pay back, therefore, Caesars Proper use of these teaching aids can enrich
things to Caesar, but Gods things to God. His enemies were your talk, touch the lives of people, and make
left to make the application themselves; but Jesus disciples instruction memorable. Improperly used, they
fully understood the principle of neutrality there set forth. may divert attention from valuable instruction.
Mt 22:15-21.
ILLUSTRATIONS and examples are powerful teaching
(3) Because the hearer is left to apply the principles of the
devices. They often command and hold attention with
illustration to himself, it can carry to him a clear message of
remarkable effectiveness. They stimulate the thinking
warning and rebuke, at the same time disarming him so that
faculties. They stir up emotions and thus may reach the
he has no ground to retaliate against the speaker. In other
conscience and the heart. At times, illustrations may be used
words, as the saying goes, If the shoe fits, wear it. When the
to overcome prejudice. They are also an effective memory
Pharisees criticized Jesus for eating with tax collectors and
aid. Do you use them in your teaching?
sinners, Jesus replied: Persons in health do not need a
physician, but the ailing do. Go, then, and learn what this Figures of speech are illustrations that usually require
means, I want mercy, and not sacrifice. For I came to call, only a few words; yet they can paint vivid mental images.
not righteous people, but sinners.Mt 9:11-13. When they are chosen carefully, much of their meaning is
self-evident. But a teacher may reinforce their value by
*** be study 45 p. 240 par. 1 Illustrations/Examples That adding a brief explanation. The Bible is filled with examples
Teach *** from which you can learn.
ILLUSTRATIONS and examples are powerful teaching Start With Similes and Metaphors. Similes are the
devices. They often command and hold attention with simplest figure of speech. If you are just learning to use
remarkable effectiveness. They stimulate the thinking illustrations, you may find it helpful to start with these. They
faculties. They stir up emotions and thus may reach the are usually introduced with the word like or as. While
conscience and the heart. At times, illustrations may be used comparing two things that are quite different, similes
to overcome prejudice. They are also an effective memory highlight something these have in common. The Bible is rich
aid. Do you use them in your teaching? with figurative speech that draws on created thingsplants,
animals, and heavenly bodiesas well as human experience.
*** be study 50 p. 260 par. 1 Effort to Reach the Heart At Psalm 1:3, we are told that a person who regularly reads
*** Gods Word is like a tree planted by streams of water, a tree
that is fruitful and does not wither. The wicked one is said to
When you emphasize Jehovahs goodness, his love, his
be like a lion that lies in wait to seize prey. (Ps. 10:9)
undeserved kindness, and the rightness of his ways, you help
Jehovah promised Abraham that his seed would become like
those whom you teach to build their love for God. When you
the stars of the heavens for number and like the grains of
take time to show your listeners the fine qualities that God
sand that are on the seashore. (Gen. 22:17) Regarding the
sees in them as individuals, you give them reason to believe
173
close relationship that Jehovah made possible between in a few words when he said: Remember the wife of Lot.
himself and the nation of Israel, God said: Just as a belt (Luke 17:32) When detailing the sign of his presence, Jesus
clings to the hips of a man, so He caused Israel and Judah to referred to the days of Noah. (Matt. 24:37-39) In Hebrews
cling to Him.Jer. 13:11. chapter 11, the apostle Paul referred to 16 men and women by
name as examples of faith. As you become well acquainted
Metaphors too highlight a similarity between two very
with the Bible, you will be able to draw powerful examples
different things. But the metaphor is more forceful. It speaks
from what the Scriptures say about the events and people
as though the one thing were the other, and thus it imparts
named in its pages.Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11.
some quality from one thing to the other. Jesus said to his
disciples: You are the light of the world. (Matt. 5:14) At times you may find it beneficial to reinforce a point of
Describing the damage that can be done by uncontrolled instruction with a real-life, modern-day experience. When
speech, the disciple James wrote: The tongue is a fire. (Jas. doing this, however, be careful to use only experiences that
3:6) To Jehovah, David sang: You are my crag and my have been verified and to avoid those that would
stronghold. (Ps. 31:3) A metaphor that is well chosen usually unnecessarily embarrass anyone in your audience or that
needs little or no explanation. Its forcefulness is enhanced by would draw attention to a controversial subject that is not at
its brevity. A metaphor can help your audience to remember a issue. Remember, too, that the experience should serve a
point in a way that a simple statement of fact does not. purpose. Do not relate needless details that tend to divert
attention from the objective of your presentation.
Hyperbole is exaggeration, which must be used discreetly
or it could be misunderstood. Jesus used this figure of speech Will It Be Understood? Whatever illustration or example
to paint an unforgettable picture when he asked: Why . . . do you use, it ought to accomplish some definite objective. Will
you look at the straw in your brothers eye, but do not it do that if you do not make application of it to the subject
consider the rafter in your own eye? (Matt. 7:3) Before you under discussion?
try to use this or other figures of speech, learn to make
After referring to his disciples as the light of the world,
effective use of the simile and the metaphor.
Jesus added a few remarks about how a lamp is used and
Use Examples. Instead of using a figure of speech, you what responsibility this implied for them. (Matt. 5:15, 16) He
may choose to employ examples, whether fictional narratives followed up his illustration of the lost sheep with a comment
or real-life experiences, as teaching aids. These tend to get about the joy in heaven over a sinner who repents. (Luke
out of hand, so they need to be handled well. Such examples 15:7) And after his story about the neighborly Samaritan,
should be used only to support points that are truly important, Jesus asked his listener a pointed question and followed it up
and they ought to be presented in such a way that the point of with some direct counsel. (Luke 10:36, 37) In contrast, Jesus
instruction is remembered, not merely the story. explained his illustration about the various kinds of soil and
the one about the weeds in the field only to those humble
Although not all examples have to be actual occurrences,
enough to ask, not to the crowds. (Matt. 13:1-30, 36-43)
they should reflect true-life attitudes or situations. Thus,
Three days before his death, Jesus spoke an illustration about
when teaching how repentant sinners ought to be viewed,
murderous vineyard cultivators. He made no application;
Jesus illustrated his point by telling about the rejoicing of a
none was needed. The chief priests and the Pharisees . . .
man who found his lost sheep. (Luke 15:1-7) In reply to a
took note that he was speaking about them. (Matt. 21:33-45)
man who was failing to get the full import of what the Law
So the nature of the illustration, the attitude of the audience,
meant by the command to love ones neighbor, Jesus related a
and your objective all have a bearing on whether application
story about a Samaritan who helped an injured man after a
is required and, if so, how much.
priest and a Levite failed to do so. (Luke 10:30-37) If you
learn to be a keen observer of peoples attitudes and actions, Developing the ability to use illustrations and examples
you can make effective use of this teaching device. effectively takes time, but the effort is well worth it. Well-
chosen illustrations couple intellectual appeal with emotional
The prophet Nathan related an imaginary situation as a
impact. The result is that the message is conveyed with a
means of reproving King David. The story was effective
force that is not often possible with simple statements of fact.
because it avoided a situation that might have led David to
react with self-justification. The story involved a rich man
HOW TO GET APPROPRIATE ONES
who had many sheep and a man of little means who had just
one female lamb that he was raising with tender care. David Read the Bible regularly; take note of the
himself had been a shepherd, so he could understand the illustrations; meditate on the value of the
feelings of the owner of that lamb. David reacted with examples.
righteous indignation against the rich man who had seized the
As you observe the world around you, mentally
poor mans cherished lamb. Then Nathan straightforwardly
associate the attitudes and actions of people
said to David: You yourself are the man! Davids heart was
with subjects about which you speak.
reached, and he sincerely repented. (2 Sam. 12:1-14) With
practice, you can learn to deal with emotional issues in an Build up a file of effective illustrations and
appealing manner. examples. These may come from material you
read, talks you hear, or personal observation.
Many examples that are valuable for teaching can be
Save them for future use.
drawn from events recorded in the Scriptures. Jesus did this
174
EXERCISE: Analyze the illustrations found in the following activity as he painted a mental picture! Do you endeavor to
scriptures: Isaiah 44:9-20; Matthew 13:44; Matthew do that?
18:21-35. What does each one teach? Why is it effective?
Whereas Jesus directed attention to the lost sheep of the
Figures of speech that I want to use in teaching house of Israel, the apostle Paul was sent not only to Israel
Study 46 but also to the Gentile nations. (Matt. 15:24; Acts 9:15) Did
Illustrations From Familiar Situations this make a difference in the way Paul spoke? Yes. When
writing to Christians in Corinth, he referred to foot races,
What do you need to do? mentioned the practice of eating meals in idol temples, and
alluded to the triumphal processions, things with which those
Use illustrations that involve activities in Gentiles would be acquainted.1 Cor. 8:1-10; 9:24, 25;
which those in your audience engage or 2 Cor. 2:14-16.
matters with which they are well acquainted.
Are you as careful as Jesus and Paul were in selecting
Why is it important? illustrations and examples to use in your teaching? Do you
Illustrations from familiar situations will touch consider the background and the daily activity of your
the heart of the listeners. listeners? Of course, there have been changes in the world
since the first century. Many people have access to world
IT IS important, of course, that whatever illustrations you news by means of television. Situations in foreign lands are
use fit the material you are discussing. For them to be most often familiar to them. Where that is the case, it certainly is
effective, however, it is equally important that they fit your not amiss to draw on such news items for illustrations.
audience. Nevertheless, the things that touch people most deeply
usually involve their personal livestheir home, their family,
How might the type of audience influence your selection their work, the food they eat, the weather in their area.
of illustrations for speaking to a group? What did Jesus Christ
do? Whether he was speaking to the crowds or to his If your illustration requires a lot of explanation, you may
disciples, Jesus did not take his examples from ways of life be talking about something that is not familiar to your
unique to lands outside of Israel. Such examples would have audience. Such an illustration can easily overshadow the
been unfamiliar to his audience. For instance, Jesus made no point of the instruction. As a result, the audience may
mention of the court life of Egypt or the religious practices of remember your illustration but not the Scriptural truth that
India. Still, his illustrations did draw on activities common to you were endeavoring to convey.
people in all lands. He spoke of mending clothes, carrying on Instead of making complicated comparisons, Jesus used
business, losing something precious, and attending marriage simple, everyday matters. He made use of little things to
feasts. He understood how people react under various explain big things and easy things to make hard things plain.
circumstances, and he made use of this. (Mark 2:21; Luke By making connections between everyday events and
14:7-11; 15:8, 9; 19:15-23) Since his public preaching was spiritual truths, Jesus helped people to grasp more readily the
directed particularly to the people of Israel, Jesus spiritual truths he was teaching and to remember these. What
illustrations most frequently alluded to objects and activities a fine example to follow!
that were part of their daily lives. Thus, he referred to such
things as farming, the way sheep respond to their shepherd, HOW TO DEVELOP THE ABILITY
and the use of animal skins to store wine. (Mark 2:22; 4:2-9;
John 10:1-5) He also pointed to familiar historical examples Learn to think not only about what you want to
the creation of the first human couple, the Flood of Noahs say but also about your listeners.
day, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the death of
Be observant of details of life around you.
Lots wife, to mention a few. (Matt. 10:15; 19:4-6; 24:37-39;
Luke 17:32) Do you similarly consider carefully the activities Make it your goal each week to use at least one
common to your audience and their cultural background good illustration that you have not used before.
when selecting illustrations?
EXERCISE: Analyze the illustration used at Matthew 12:10-
What if you are speaking, not to a large group, but to one 12. Why was it effective?
person or perhaps to just a few? Endeavor to select an
Illustrations that I might use to reason with a teenager on
illustration that is especially appropriate for that small
moral standards
audience. When Jesus witnessed to a Samaritan woman at a
well near Sychar, he spoke of living water, never getting Illustrations that I might use to reason with an adult on a
thirsty again, and a fountain of water bubbling up to impart basic Bible truth
everlasting lifeall of which were figures of speech directly
connected to that womans work. (John 4:7-15) And when he
spoke to men who had been washing their fishing nets, the Conduct Effective Bible Studies
figure of speech that he chose involved the fishing business. *** be study 24 p. 162 par. 4 Choice of Words ***
(Luke 5:2-11) In either instance, he might have made
reference to farming, since they lived in an agricultural area, Use of the right word can also help you get to the point
but how much more effective it was to allude to their personal without being wordy. Wordiness tends to bury thoughts.

175
1
Simplicity makes it easier for others to grasp and retain When teaching, Jesus took into consideration his
important facts. It helps convey accurate knowledge. The disciples limitations, speaking to them as far as they were
teaching of Jesus Christ was outstanding for its simplicity of able to listen. (Mark 4:33; John 16:12) In a similar way,
language. Learn from him. (See the examples recorded at teachers of Gods Word today need to gauge the pace at
Matthew 5:3-12 and Mark 10:17-21.) Practice expressing which they cover material on a Bible study. The amount of
yourself concisely in well-chosen words. material that can be considered will depend on the ability and
the circumstances of both the teacher and the student.
2
Build Solid Faith: Some students may require two or
three sessions to grasp what other students can easily take in
*** km 2/05 p. 6 pars. 1-4 Part 6Conducting
during one session. We do not want to sacrifice the students
Progressive Bible Studies ***
having a clear understanding for the sake of speed. Every
1
Once a Bible study is well established, it is usually best student needs a solid basis for his newfound faith in Gods
to consider Bible teachings in an orderly manner rather than Word.Prov. 4:7; Rom. 12:2.
jump from subject to subject. This helps the student to build a 3
As you conduct the study week by week, spend whatever
foundation of accurate knowledge and to progress spiritually.
time is necessary to help the student understand and accept
(Col. 1:9, 10) Often, though, students raise questions on
what he is learning from Gods Word. Avoid a hurried pace
various subjects during the study. How should these be
that detracts from the richness of the truths being taught.
handled?
Allow sufficient time to focus on the main points and to
2
Be Discerning: Questions related to the study material consider key scriptures that provide the basis for the
being considered can usually be answered on the spot. If a teachings.2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
question will be addressed later in the study publication, it 4
Keep the Study Moving: While we want to avoid
may be sufficient simply to point that out. However, if a
rushing through the study, we also want to avoid becoming
question is unrelated to the study material or will require
sidetracked. If a student is inclined to speak at length about
research to answer properly, it may be better to consider the
personal matters, we may need to arrange to discuss these
matter after the study or at another time. Some find that
after the study.Eccl. 3:1.
writing the question down assures the student that his
5
question is being taken seriously and helps prevent the study On the other hand, our own enthusiasm for the truth can
from becoming sidetracked. make it a challenge not to talk excessively during the study.
3 (Ps. 145:6, 7) An occasional side point or experience can
Many Bible teachings are considered only briefly in our
enrich a study, but we would not want these to become so
basic study publications. What if a student has difficulty
numerous or lengthy that they hinder the student from
accepting a certain teaching or holds strongly to a false
acquiring an accurate knowledge of basic Bible teachings.
belief? It may be beneficial to consider additional material
6
that thoroughly discusses what the Bible says on that subject. By covering a reasonable amount of material at each
If the student is still not convinced, leave the subject for study session, we help Bible students to walk in the light of
another time and continue on with his regular study. (John Jehovah.Isa. 2:5.
16:12) As he gains a broader knowledge of the Bible and
progresses spiritually, he may come to understand that Bible (John 16:12) I still have many things to say to you, but you
teaching. are not able to bear them now.
4
Be Modest: If you are not sure of the answer to a
Page 125 Unit 14 (a)
question, resist the temptation to venture an opinion. (2 Tim.
2:15; 1 Pet. 4:11) Explain that you will research the matter *** km 3/13 p. 3 How to Use Who Are Doing Jehovahs
and return with an answer. You might even use the Will Today? ***
opportunity to teach the student how to do research.
Progressively show him how to use the various research tools How to Use Who Are Doing Jehovahs Will Today?
provided by Jehovahs organization. In this way he will New Brochure Designed to Direct Bible Students to the
eventually be able to answer his own questions.Acts 17:11. Organization
1
(Colossians 2:6, 7) Therefore, just as you have accepted Have you started using the new brochure Who Are
Christ Jesus the Lord, go on walking in union with him, Doing Jehovahs Will Today? Its purpose is (1) to familiarize
7
being rooted and built up in him and being stabilized in the Bible students with us as a people, (2) to help them learn
faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with about our activities, and (3) to show them our organization in
thanksgiving. action. The Jehovahs Will brochure contains one-page
lessons that can easily be covered in just five to ten minutes
*** km 1/05 p. 1 Part 5Conducting Progressive Bible at the end of each study.
Studies *** 2
How It Is Designed: The brochure is divided into three
Part 5Conducting Progressive Bible Studies
sections, each of which discusses a different aspect of
Determining How Much Material to Cover
Jehovahs organization, as noted above. The title of each of
176
the 28 lessons is written as a question, and the bold tremendous project would have overwhelmed any shipbuilder
subheadings that follow answer that question. Photographs of ancient times. Noah and his seven family members
from over 50 countries are labeled throughout to show the constructed the ark without the help of modern equipment. In
international scope of our work. A number of lessons have addition, Noah kept on preaching to his contemporaries. We
Find Out More boxes, which contain suggestions that you can be certain that he was also providing for the spiritual and
can encourage your student to pursue. physical needs of his family. (2 Peter 2:5) To accomplish all
3 of this, Noah must have had good work habits. Furthermore,
How You Can Use It: Start by calling attention to the
Noah went down in Bible history as one who walked with
question that is the title of the lesson. Then, as you read the
the true God. . . . Noah proceeded to do according to all that
lesson together, highlight the bold subheadings. Finally,
Jehovah had commanded him. (Genesis 6:9, 22; 7:5) Since
consider the review questions at the bottom of the page. You
he was pronounced faultless in the Bible, he must have
can read the lesson straight through or read and discuss it in
continued to walk with God after the Deluge and even after
sections. Use your judgment in deciding which cited
the rebellion against Jehovah reared its head at Babel. Indeed,
scriptures to read. Do not forget to consider the pictures and
Noah kept on walking with God right down till his death at
the Find Out More boxes. In most cases, the lessons should
950 years of age.Genesis 9:29.
be discussed in order. However, feel free to jump ahead to a
lesson that deals with something of immediate interest. For Jobs good habits helped make him a man blameless and
example, if an assembly or a convention is coming up, you upright. (Job 1:1, 8; 2:3) He customarily, or habitually, acted
could skip to lesson 11. as the family priest in offering sacrifices in behalf of his
4 children after each one of their banquets, in case they had
When we study the Bible with someone, we help him to
sinned and [had] cursed God in their heart. That is the way
get acquainted with our heavenly Father. However, we also
Job would do always. (Job 1:5) In Jobs family, customs that
need to teach him about Jehovahs organization. (Prov. 6:20)
centered on Jehovahs worship were undoubtedly prominent.
How happy we are to have this new tool that makes it easy to
do so! Daniel served Jehovah with constancy throughout his
long life. (Daniel 6:16, 20) What good spiritual habits did
*** w01 8/1 pp. 19-22 Let Force of Habit Work for Your Daniel have? For one thing, he prayed regularly to Jehovah.
Good *** Despite a royal decree against this practice, three times in a
Let Force of Habit Work for Your Good day [Daniel] was kneeling on his knees and praying and
offering praise before his God, as he had been regularly
THE man had lived in a suburb of Athens for 12 years. doing. (Daniel 6:10) He could not forgo his habit of praying
Every day, he took the same route home from work. Then he to God, even when that proved to be life threatening. No
moved to another suburb across town. One day after work, he doubt this habit strengthened Daniel in a life course of
set out for home. Only when he found himself in his old exceptional integrity to God. Evidently, Daniel also had the
neighborhood did he realize that he had gone in the wrong good habit of studying and pondering deeply the thrilling
direction. By force of habit, he had gone to his former home! promises of God. (Jeremiah 25:11, 12; Daniel 9:2) These
good habits certainly helped him endure to the end, faithfully
Little wonder that force of habit is sometimes called running the race for life to its very finish.
second nature, an influence that affects our life in powerful
ways. In this sense, habits could be likened to fire. A fire can In contrast, Dinah fared poorly because of a bad habit.
be a welcome light in the dark, and it can warm our body and She used to go out to see the daughters of the land, who
heat our food. Yet, fire can also be a ferocious enemy that were not worshipers of Jehovah. (Genesis 34:1) This
destroys lives and possessions. The same is true of habits. seemingly innocent habit led to disaster. First, she was
Properly cultivated, they are of great benefit. But they can violated by Shechem, a young man considered the most
also be destructive. honorable of the whole house of his father. Then, the
vengeful reaction of two of her brothers led them to slaughter
In the case of the man mentioned at the outset, force of all the males in an entire city. What a terrible outcome!
habit cost him only some time stuck in city traffic. When it Genesis 34:19, 25-29.
comes to more important things, habits can reward us with
success or lead us to calamity. Consider a few real-life How can we be sure that our habits will benefit us and not
examples found in the Bible that show how habits can help or harm us?
hinder our service to God and our relationship with him.
Putting Habits to Work
Bible Examples of Good and Bad Habits
Habits are destiny, wrote one philosopher. But they do
Noah, Job, and Daniel were all blessed with a close not have to be. The Bible shows very clearly that we can
relationship with God. The Bible extols them because of choose to change our bad habits and cultivate good ones.
their righteousness. (Ezekiel 14:14) Significantly, the life
With good habits, the Christian way of life becomes more
course of all three men showed that they had developed good
efficient and easier to keep up. Alex, a Christian from Greece,
habits.
says: The habit of sticking to a schedule for accomplishing
Noah was told to build an ark, a vessel longer than a various tasks saves me valuable time. Theophilus, a
football field and higher than a five-story building. Such a Christian elder, points to planning as a habit that helps him to

177
be effective. He says: I am fully convinced that I would not Stella was for a time a compulsive TV watcher. She
be able to handle my Christian duties successfully without the admits: Behind every bad habit I have succumbed to, there
habit of good planning. is usually an innocent reason. This was the case with her
habit of excessive TV watching. She told herself that she
As Christians, we are urged to go on walking orderly in
would watch just for a little relaxation or for a change of
this same routine. (Philippians 3:16) A routine involves a
pace. But her habit went out of control, keeping her in front
habitual . . . performance of an established procedure. Such
of the television for long hours. At the least, this bad habit
good habits benefit us because we do not have to spend time
delayed my spiritual progress, she says. With determined
in deliberating each stepwe have already established a
effort, she finally reduced the time she spent watching TV
good pattern that we follow by force of habit. Strong habits
and became more selective. I always try to remember why I
become almost automatic. Just as safe driving habits may
wanted to break this habit, Stella says, and I rely on
guide a driver to make instant lifesaving decisions when
Jehovah to keep my resolution.
facing dangers on the road, good habits can help us to make
appropriate decisions swiftly as we walk in our Christian A Christian named Charalambos points to a bad habit that
course. hindered him from making spiritual advancement
procrastination. When I realized that the habit of putting
As English writer Jeremy Taylor put it: Habits are the
things off was harmful, I began working to turn my life
daughters of action. If our habits are good, we can perform
around. When setting goals, I planned specifically when and
good things with little difficulty. For example, if as Christian
how to start working toward them. Regularity in the
ministers we have the habit of regularly sharing in the
application of my decisions and plans was the antidote, and it
preaching work, it is easier and more enjoyable to go out in
remains a good habit till now. Indeed, good habits are the
the field service. Regarding the apostles, we read that every
best replacement for bad ones.
day in the temple and from house to house they continued
without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Our associates can also cause us to develop habits, good
Christ, Jesus. (Acts 5:42; 17:2) On the other hand, if we or bad. Good habits rub off, just as bad ones do. Even as bad
share in the ministry only occasionally, we may feel anxious, associations spoil useful habits, good associates may provide
needing more time to get into the rhythm before we feel us with examples of wholesome habits to imitate.
confident in this vital Christian activity. (1 Corinthians 15:33) Most important, habits can strengthen
or weaken our relationship with God. Stella says: If our
The same is true of other aspects of our Christian routine.
habits are good, they make our struggle to serve Jehovah
Good habits can help us to be regular in reading Gods Word
easier. If they are harmful, they hinder our efforts.
day and night. (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2) One Christian has the
habit of reading the Bible for 20 to 30 minutes before retiring Establish good habits, and let them guide you. They will
for the night. Even when he is very tired, he finds that if he be a powerful, beneficial force in your life.
goes to bed without doing the reading, he cannot sleep well.
[Picture on page 19]
He has to get up and care for that spiritual need. This good
Like fire, habits can be beneficial or destructive
habit has also helped him to read the whole Bible once a year
for several years. [Picture on page 21]
It was Jesus custom to be in the synagogue on the Sabbath
Our Exemplar, Jesus Christ, had the habit of attending
for the reading of Gods Word
meetings where the Bible was discussed. According to his
custom on the sabbath day, he entered into the synagogue, [Pictures on page 22]
and he stood up to read. (Luke 4:16) For Joe, an elder with a Good spiritual habits strengthen our relationship with God
large family who works long hours, habit has helped to create
in him a need and a desire to attend meetings regularly. He
says: This habit keeps me going, providing much-needed
spiritual strength so that I can face challenges and problems Page 126 Unit 14 (b)
successfully.Hebrews 10:24, 25.
Workshop 4
Such habits are indispensable in the Christian race for life.
A report from a country where Jehovahs people have been Conduct Progressive
persecuted noted: Those with good spiritual habits and a Bible Studies
deep appreciation of the truth have no problem in holding
firm when tests arrive, but those who in favorable season OPENING DISCUSSION
miss meetings, are irregular in field service and compromise (Matthew 28:19, 20) Go, therefore, and make disciples of
on small issues often fall when under a fiery test. people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the
2 Timothy 4:2. Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them
to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I
Avoid Bad Habits, Utilize Good Ones
am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of
It has been said that a man should cultivate only those things.
habits that he is willing to have master him. Bad habits are (1 Corinthians 3:10-13) According to the undeserved
indeed an oppressive master. Still, they can be broken. kindness of God that was given to me, I laid a foundation as a

178
skilled master builder, but someone else is building on it. But be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.
let each one keep watching how he is building on it. 11 For no
one can lay any other foundation than what is laid, which is Page 128
Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation gold, Unit 15 (a)
silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each ones
work will be shown for what it is, for the day will show it up, Help Others Press On to Maturity
because it will be revealed by means of fire, and the fire itself
will prove what sort of work each one has built. OPENING DISCUSSION
(3 John 4) No greater joy do I have than this: that I should
hear that my children go on walking in the truth. (Hebrews 6:1) Therefore, now that we have moved beyond
the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to
*** be p. 278 pars. 1-4 The Message We Must Proclaim maturity, not laying a foundation again, namely, repentance
*** from dead works and faith in God,
(1 Corinthians 3:10-13) According to the undeserved
Laying Christ as the Foundation. The Bible likens the
kindness of God that was given to me, I laid a foundation as a
work of making a Christian disciple to building a structure
skilled master builder, but someone else is building on it. But
upon Jesus Christ as the foundation. (1 Cor. 3:10-15) To
let each one keep watching how he is building on it. 11 For no
accomplish this, help people to know Jesus as he is described
one can lay any other foundation than what is laid, which is
in the Bible. Exercise care that they do not look to you as the
Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation gold,
one they are following. (1 Cor. 3:4-7) Direct their attention to
silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each ones
Jesus Christ.
work will be shown for what it is, for the day will show it up,
If the foundation has been laid well, students will because it will be revealed by means of fire, and the fire itself
appreciate that Christ left a model for us to follow his steps will prove what sort of work each one has built.
closely. (1 Pet. 2:21) To build on that, encourage students to
read the Gospels not merely as truthful history but as a Trained to Give a Witness
pattern to be followed. Help them to take to heart the attitudes
and qualities that characterized Jesus. Encourage them to
observe how Jesus felt about his Father, how he dealt with *** bh chap. 18 p. 177 par. 9 Baptism and Your
temptations and trials, how he showed submission to God, Relationship With God ***
and how he dealt with humans under various circumstances. 9
You might begin to share Bible truth with others by
Emphasize the activity with which Jesus filled his life. Then,
tactfully speaking about it to your relatives, friends,
when faced with decisions and trials in life, a student will ask
neighbors, and workmates. In time, you will want to share in
himself: What would Jesus do in this situation? Will my
the organized preaching work of Jehovahs Witnesses. At that
course show proper appreciation for what he has done for
point, feel free to talk things over with the Witness who is
me?
teaching you the Bible. If it appears that you qualify for the
When you speak before the congregation, do not conclude public ministry, arrangements will be made for you and your
that since your brothers already have faith in Jesus, there is teacher to meet with two of the congregation elders.
no need to draw special attention to him. What you say will
mean more if you build on that faith. When you speak about Page 129 Unit 15 (a)
meetings, connect this with Jesus role as Head of the
congregation. When you discuss the field ministry, draw (Psalm 24:3-6) Who may ascend to the mountain of Jehovah,
attention to the spirit Jesus showed as he carried on his And who may stand up in his holy place? 4 Anyone with
ministry, and present the ministry in the light of what Christ innocent hands and a pure heart, Who has not sworn a false
as King is doing to gather people for preservation into the oath by My life, Nor taken an oath deceitfully. 5 He will
new world. receive blessings from Jehovah And righteousness from his
God of salvation. 6 This is the generation of those seeking
It is evident that more is needed than simply learning him, Of those seeking your face, O God of Jacob. (Selah)
basic facts about Jesus. To become real Christians, people
must exercise faith in him and truly love him. Such love (Psalm 50:16) But God will say to the wicked: What right
motivates loyal obedience. (John 14:15, 21) It enables people do you have to relate my regulations Or to speak about my
to stand firm in the faith under adversity, to continue to walk covenant?
in Christs footsteps all the days of their life, to prove (Romans 2:21-24) do you, however, the one teaching
themselves mature Christians who are firmly rooted and someone else, not teach yourself? You, the one preaching,
established on the foundation. (Eph. 3:17) Such a course Do not steal, do you steal? 22 You, the one saying, Do not
brings glory to Jehovah, the God and Father of Jesus Christ. commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You, the one
abhorring idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who take pride in
Page 127 law, do you dishonor God by your transgressing of the Law?
Unit 14 (b) 24
For the name of God is being blasphemed among the
nations because of you, just as it is written.
(1 Timothy 2:4) whose will is that all sorts of people should
179
*** bh chap. 16 p. 154 par. 2 Take Your Stand for True should contact the presiding overseer, who will arrange for
Worship *** one of the elders on the Congregation Service Committee and
2 another elder to meet with the Bible student and his teacher.
A similar situation arises with regard to false religion.
The discussion will be based on the book Organized to
The Bible teaches that such worship is contaminated with
Accomplish Our Ministry, pages 98 and 99. If these two
unclean teachings and practices. (2 Corinthians 6:17) That is
elders see that the new one believes basic Bible teachings and
why it is important for you to get out of Babylon the Great,
has conformed to Gods principles, he will be told that he is
the world empire of false religion. (Revelation 18:2, 4) Have
qualified to share in the public ministry. When he reports his
you done this? If so, you are to be commended. But more is
ministry by turning in a field service report, it will be posted
involved than just separating yourself or resigning from a
on a Congregations Publisher Record card made out in his
false religion. Afterward, you must ask yourself, Do any
name. The new one can now report his witnessing activity
traces of false worship remain in me? Consider some
along with the millions of others who joyfully publish the
examples.
word of God. (Acts 13:5) An announcement that he is an
unbaptized publisher will be made to the congregation.
*** bh chap. 18 pp. 177-178 pars. 10-11 Baptism and Your
7
Relationship With God *** An unbaptized publisher needs the help of the elders and
10 other mature Christians. For example, his spiritual progress is
This will enable you to get better acquainted with some
a matter of interest to the conductor of the Congregation
Christian elders, who shepherd the flock of God. (Acts 20:28;
Book Study he attends. The new publisher may find it hard to
1 Peter 5:2, 3) If these elders see that you understand and
speak effectively in the house-to-house work. (Acts 20:20) So
believe basic Bible teachings, are living in harmony with
he is likely to welcome assistance, especially from the one
Gods principles, and truly want to be one of Jehovahs
who has been conducting Bible studies with him in the
Witnesses, they will let you know that you qualify to share in
Knowledge book. Such practical help is appropriate, for Jesus
the public ministry as an unbaptized publisher of the good
Christ prepared his disciples for the ministry.Mark 6:7-13;
news.
Luke 10:1-22.
11
On the other hand, you may need to make some changes *** km 2/02 p. 5 Preach the Word of God Fully ***
in your life-style and habits in order to qualify for the public 14
Help Them to Serve Again: Are any in your
ministry. This may include stopping some practices that have
congregations territory no longer active in preaching the
been kept secret from others. Hence, before you ask about
good news? Such ones are still part of the congregation and
becoming an unbaptized publisher, you need to be free of
are in need of help. (Ps. 119:176) Since the end of this old
serious sins, such as sexual immorality, drunkenness, and
world is so close and the new world is just ahead, we have
drug abuse.1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Galatians 5:19-21.
good reason to put forth every effort to assist those who have
become inactive. (Rom. 13:11, 12) Over the past five years,
*** be p. 282 par. 6 Guidelines for School Overseers ***
more than 26,500 people each year have responded to help
Enrolling Students. Encourage all publishers to enroll in and been reactivated. What can we do to help many more
the school. Others who are actively associating with the rekindle the love and confidence they had at the start?Heb.
congregation may enroll if they agree with the teachings of 3:12-14.
the Bible and their life is in harmony with Christian 15
The body of elders will want to discuss how they can
principles. When someone expresses a desire to enroll,
help those who have become inactive during the past few
warmly commend him. If the person is not yet a publisher,
years. (Matt. 18:12-14) The secretary should check the
you as the school overseer should discuss with him the
Congregations Publisher Record cards and make a note of all
requirements for enrollment in the school, preferably doing
those who have become inactive. A special effort should be
so in the presence of the one who is conducting a Bible study
made through the shepherding arrangement to provide
with him (or in the presence of a believing parent). These
assistance. An elder might want to call on a certain publisher
requirements are the same as for a person to become an
because of previous acquaintance and association with that
unbaptized publisher. They are found on pages 97 to 99 of
one, or other publishers may be asked to help. Maybe they
Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry. Keep an up-to-date
studied with the one who is now inactive and would welcome
list of all who are enrolled in the school.
the opportunity to be of special assistance in this time of
need. Hopefully, many of those who became inactive will be
moved to start preaching the word of God again. If they
qualify, there is no better time for them to start than during
the Memorial season!See the Question Box in the
*** w96 1/15 p. 16 Jehovahs Sheep Need Tender Care
November 2000 Our Kingdom Ministry for further details.
***
16
Do Others Qualify to Preach? Jehovah continues to
When New Ones Want to Preach
bless his people by bringing in the desirable things of all the
6
After a Bible student has taken in knowledge and has nations. (Hag. 2:7) Each year thousands qualify as
attended meetings for a while, he may want to become a unbaptized publishers. Who are they? Children of Jehovahs
Kingdom publisher, a preacher of the good news. (Mark Witnesses as well as progressive Bible students. How do we
13:10) If so, the Witness conducting the Bible study with him know if they qualify to be publishers of the good news?
180
17
Children of Jehovahs Witnesses: Many children have the observance of the Lords Evening Meal on Thursday,
accompanied their parents from house to house for years, March 28, 2002; (2) helping those who have become inactive
although they are not yet serving as unbaptized publishers. to rekindle the love [they] had at first (Rev. 2:4; Rom.
March may be a good time to get them started. How do you 12:11); (3) assisting our children and any Bible students who
know if your child is qualified? Page 100 in Organized to qualify to become unbaptized publishers; and (4) being
Accomplish Our Ministry says that it is when a child is involved in the evangelizing work as fully as possible, even
exemplary in his conduct and is able to make a personal auxiliary pioneering in March and beyond.2 Tim. 4:5.
expression of his faith by speaking to others about the good 23
It is our earnest prayer that all of us will have a full
news, being moved from the heart to do so. If you think that
share in preaching the good news of the Kingdom this
your child qualifies, speak with one of the elders on the
Memorial season, thus showing the depth of our appreciation
Congregation Service Committee.
for all that Jehovah has done for us.
18
Qualified Bible Students: After a Bible student has
taken in knowledge and attended meetings for a while, he *** lv chap. 5 p. 57 par. 14 How to Keep Separate From
may want to become a Kingdom publisher. If you are the World ***
conducting the study with such a student, consider these 14
Our dress, grooming, and cleanliness are even more
questions: Is he making progress, consistent with his age and
important when we are engaging in the field ministry or
ability? Has he begun to share his faith informally with
attending a Christian meeting. Ask yourself: Do my
others? Is he putting on the new personality? (Col. 3:10)
appearance and personal hygiene draw undue attention to
Does he meet the qualifications for unbaptized publishers,
me? Do they embarrass others? Do I consider my rights in
outlined on pages 97-9 in the Our Ministry book? If so, you
these areas to be more important than qualifying for service
should contact the Congregation Service Committee so that
privileges in the congregation?Psalm 68:6; Philippians
arrangements can be made for two elders to meet with you
4:5; 1 Peter 5:6.
and the student. If he qualifies, the two elders will inform him
that he can begin sharing in the public ministry.
19
What About April and May? These will also be *** km 6/96 p. 5 par. 19 How to Make Disciples With the
special months for increased activity in the field ministry. Knowledge Book ***
Many who auxiliary pioneer in March may be able to do so 19
The procedure to be followed for determining whether
again in April and/or May. During April and May, we will
one qualifies to share in the public ministry is outlined in the
give priority to featuring the Watchtower and Awake!
January 15, 1996, Watchtower, page 16, paragraph 6. When
magazines in the ministry. What beneficial effects they have
the student qualifies, it would be helpful to conduct a practice
had on the lives of those who read them! These magazines
session to prepare him for his first day in field service. In a
have played a large role in achieving the marvelous increase
positive manner, discuss the peoples reactions and objections
that has been experienced worldwide. A special effort will be
that are common in your territory. Start him in the house-to-
put forth during April and May to offer the magazines to as
house work first if at all possible, and progressively train him
many people as possible. Plan now to have a full share.
in other features of the ministry. If you keep your
20
With the increased preaching activity planned, do you presentation short and simple, it will be easy for him to
need to increase the number of magazines you obtain through imitate. Be upbuilding and encouraging, radiating joy in the
the congregation? Throughout the service year, we feature work, so that he picks up your spirit and reflects it. (Acts
The Watchtower and Awake! each Saturday, our designated 18:25) The goal of a new disciple should be to become a
Magazine Day. However, since many will be sharing in the regular, zealous publisher of the good news. Perhaps you can
auxiliary pioneer service and all of us will be featuring the help him to work up a practical schedule for service. In order
magazines for two full months, it may be necessary to for him to progress in his ability to witness to others, you
increase your magazine order with the congregation. If so, may suggest that he read the Watchtower issues of August 15,
please inform the magazine servant in your congregation 1984, pages 15-25; July 15, 1988, pages 9-20; January 15,
immediately. At the same time, the literature servant should 1991, pages 15-20; and January 1, 1994, pages 20-5.
be sure that a good supply of the tract Would You Like to
Know More About the Bible? is on hand for all to use. (Judges 7:17) Then he said to them: Watch me and do
21 exactly what I do. When I come to the edge of the camp, you
Many have expressed appreciation for the feature in
should do just as I do.
Our Kingdom Ministry entitled What to Say About the
Magazines. Have you taken advantage of this provision by
*** w96 1/15 pp. 16-17 par. 8 Jehovahs Sheep Need
learning the sample magazine presentations? Why not use a
Tender Care ***
portion of your family Bible study each week to practice
8
these presentations? If our ministry is to be effective, good advance
22 preparation is essential. Therefore, the two publishers might
Make the Most of This Memorial Season: Like the
first get together to practice presentations suggested in the
apostle Paul, let us show Jehovah how much we appreciate
monthly issues of Our Kingdom Ministry. When they begin
his indescribable free gift by our full participation in the
their field service, the more experienced one might take the
spiritual activities planned for this Memorial season. These
first door or two. After a friendly introduction, both
include (1) attending the most important occasion of the year,
181
publishers could share in giving a witness. Working together return visits and to cultivate the interest he finds?
in the ministry for a few weeks may lead to fine return visits 2
Preparation for a return visit begins with the initial call.
and even a home Bible study in the book Knowledge That
Encourage the student to take a sincere interest in those with
Leads to Everlasting Life. The more experienced publisher
whom he speaks. (Phil. 2:4) Progressively train him to draw
might conduct the study for a while and then turn it over to
them out, to listen to their comments, and to note the things
the new Kingdom proclaimer. How happy both publishers
that concern them. When someone shows interest, have the
will be if the Bible student manifests appreciation for the
new publisher write down the pertinent information about the
knowledge of God!
call. Use that information to help him plan further
discussions.
*** km 6/05 p. 1 Part 10Conducting Progressive Bible
Studies *** 3
Preparing to Return: Review the initial call, and show
Part 10Conducting Progressive Bible Studies the student how to select an aspect of the Kingdom message
Training Students in the House-to-House Ministry that will appeal to the householder. (1 Cor. 9:19-23) Prepare
together a brief presentation that features one Bible text along
1
When the elders determine that a Bible student qualifies with a paragraph in a study publication. In addition, prepare a
as an unbaptized publisher, he may begin to share with the question that can be raised at the conclusion of the discussion
congregation in the public preaching work. (See Organized to to lay the groundwork for the next visit. Show the new
Do Jehovahs Will, pp. 79-81.) How can we help the student publisher how to add to the persons knowledge of Gods
to meet the challenge of preaching from house to house? Word with each successive visit.
2 4
Preparing Together: There is no substitute for good It is also helpful to provide the student with a simple
preparation. Show the student where he can find suggested introduction. After greeting the householder, he might say: I
presentations in Our Kingdom Ministry and the Reasoning enjoyed our previous conversation, and I have returned to
book, and help him select a simple approach that is practical share further Bible information on [mention the topic]. You
for the local territory. From the start, encourage him to may also need to show the new publisher how to respond if a
feature the Bible in his ministry.2 Tim. 4:2. different person answers the door.
3 5
Practice sessions are very beneficial for a new publisher. Follow Up Diligently: Encourage the student to set a
As the student rehearses the presentation, show him how to good example in returning promptly on all who show interest.
handle tactfully the responses that are common in the Finding people at home may require persistence in calling
territory. (Col. 4:6) Assure him that Christian ministers do not back. Teach the student how to make appointments to visit
need to know the answer to every question that a householder again, and help him appreciate the need to return as promised.
might raise. Often it is best to handle such questions by (Matt. 5:37) Train the new publisher to be kind, considerate,
offering to do research and to return to discuss the matter and respectful as he searches for sheeplike ones and
further.Prov. 15:28. cultivates their interest.Titus 3:2.
4
Preaching Together: The first time the student shares in
*** km 8/05 p. 1 Part 12Conducting Progressive Bible
the house-to-house ministry, let him observe as you give the
Studies ***
presentation that the two of you prepared together. Then get
Part 12Conducting Progressive Bible Studies
him involved. In some cases, it may be best to have the new
Helping Students Start and Conduct Bible Studies
publisher give only part of the presentation, such as reading
and commenting on a scripture. Take into consideration the 1
When our Bible students begin sharing in the field
personality and abilities of the student. (Phil. 4:5) Be
ministry, they may be intimidated by the thought of starting
generous in giving commendation as you progressively train
and conducting their own Bible studies. How can we help
him in the various aspects of the preaching work.
them develop a positive attitude toward this essential part of
5
It is important to help a new publisher establish a regular our ministry?Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20.
schedule for participating in the ministry, doing so weekly if 2
Once a Bible student qualifies to be an unbaptized
possible. (Phil. 3:16) Make definite arrangements to work
publisher, he is likely already taking full advantage of the
together in service, and encourage him to work with other
Theocratic Ministry School. The training he receives in
zealous ones also. Their example and association will help
preparing and presenting student assignments will help him to
him to develop skill and find joy in preaching from house to
develop the teaching skills that are needed by a workman
house.
with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth
aright.2 Tim. 2:15.
*** km 7/05 p. 1 Part 11Conducting Progressive Bible
Studies *** 3
Teach by Your Example: Jesus trained his disciples by
Part 11Conducting Progressive Bible Studies giving clear instruction and setting a fine example. He said:
Helping Students to Make Return Visits Everyone that is perfectly instructed will be like his
teacher. (Luke 6:40) Your imitating Jesus by setting a proper
1
When a Bible student begins to share in the preaching example in your own ministry is vital. As your student
work, he will meet people who show interest in the good observes your lead in the ministry, he will appreciate that the
news. How can we help the new publisher to make effective objective in making return visits is to start Bible studies.
182
4
Explain that when we offer a study, it is not generally are interested in new ideas, findings, or opportunities. Paul
necessary to describe the study arrangement in detail. Often it wanted the Philippians to understand that Christianity is
is best simply to demonstrate the study by using one or never stagnant and those who profess it must keep moving
perhaps two paragraphs from a study publication. Helpful forward. Their progressive spirit would be demonstrated by a
suggestions for doing this can be found on page 8 of this willingness to examine themselves, to acknowledge their
issue and on page 6 of the January 2002 Our Kingdom weaknesses, and to reach out for opportunities to do more or
Ministry. to improve the quality of what they were doing. Today
5 Jehovahs earthly organization keeps moving forward
When appropriate, invite the student to accompany you
progressively, ever expanding its scope of activity and its
or another experienced publisher on other Bible studies. He
understanding of Gods Word. Each one of us must keep pace
might share in commenting on a paragraph or a key scripture.
with it, taking advantage of all its provisions and sharing
Thus, by observation, the student will learn much about
fully in its work.
conducting progressive Bible studies. (Prov. 27:17; 2 Tim.
5
2:2) Give him commendation, and discuss how he can Progress Requires an Orderly Routine: Paul
improve. continued by urging his brothers to go on walking orderly in
6 this same routine. (Phil. 3:16) Being orderly requires us to
Training new publishers to be teachers of Gods Word
put persons or things in their proper places in relation to one
will equip them for the good work of starting and
another and to be well behaved. The Christians in Philippi
conducting studies of their own. (2 Tim. 3:17) How satisfying
kept themselves in their proper place, staying close to
it is to work side by side with them in extending the loving
Jehovahs organization and to one another. Their lives were
invitation: Let anyone that wishes take lifes water free!
governed by the law of love. (John 15:17; Phil. 2:1, 2) Paul
Rev. 22:17.
urged them to behave in a manner worthy of the good
news. (Phil. 1:27) The need for orderliness and fine behavior
Page 130 Unit 15 (a)
is just as important for Christians today.
*** km 8/94 pp. 3-4 Keep Walking Progressively in an 6
A routine is a habitual performance of an established
Orderly Routine *** procedure. It is thus closely related to a customary way of
Keep Walking Progressively in an Orderly Routine doing things. Having a routine can work to our advantage
because we do not have to pause and deliberate when making
1
The apostle Paul had a special affection for the decisions about our next stepwe have already established a
congregation in Philippi, which he was instrumental in set pattern that we follow by force of habit.
forming. He was grateful for their kind material provisions 7
An orderly theocratic routine consists of habits and
and spoke of them as a good example.2 Cor. 8:1-6.
customs that are wholesome, beneficial, godlywith the
2
Pauls letter to the Philippians was prompted by deep objective of building ourselves up spiritually, helping others,
love. The Insight book, Volume 2, page 631, reports: and, if possible, doing more in Jehovahs service. Success in
Throughout the letter he encourages the Philippian achieving these goals requires establishing and maintaining a
congregation to continue in their fine courseseeking greater routine that includes personal study, regular attendance at
discernment and getting a sure grip on the Word of life, a meetings, and participation in the preaching work.
stronger faith, and hope in the prize to come. They 8
Essentials Included in an Orderly Routine: One
responded warmly, cementing a bond of love between them
essential is accurate knowledge and full discernment. (Phil.
and the apostle. Pauls words take on special meaning for us
1:9) Personal study deepens our faith, strengthens our
today, giving us good reason to reflect carefully on his
appreciation for the truth, and motivates us toward fine
admonition, particularly what is stated at Philippians 3:15-17.
works. However, some have found it difficult to be consistent
3
A Mature Mental Attitude Is Essential: At Philippians in their study habits. One of the principal reasons given is a
3:15, Paul wrote as a man with years of experience. He lack of time.
acknowledged the Philippians spiritual advancement, 9
The benefits of reading the Bible daily cannot be
appealing to them as mature Christians with a right mental
overemphasized. Its instruction is beneficial in every way.
attitude. As long as their mental attitude reflected the humility
(2 Tim. 3:16, 17) How can we find time for Bible study in our
and appreciation demonstrated by Jesus, they would continue
daily routine? Some have found that they can get up a few
to be blameless and innocent, children of God without a
minutes earlier each morning, when their mind is alert.
blemish . . . , keeping a tight grip on the word of life. (Phil.
Others find that they do better when reading a few minutes
2:15, 16) When we read Pauls words, we should feel that he
before retiring at night. Wives who are at home during the
is talking to us. Thus we earnestly desire to have the same
day may be able to set aside a little time in the afternoons
mental attitude that Jesus had and to display humble
before others get home from work or school. In addition to
appreciation for our privileges. We continually appeal to
regular Bible reading, some have included reading of the
Jehovah in prayer, asking for help in this and in other matters.
Proclaimers book in their weekly study routine.
Phil. 4:6, 7.
10
4 When we establish new habits, there is a real possibility
As Philippians 3:16 indicates, all of us should endeavor
that they will conflict with our former habits. In the past we
to make progress. The word progress means moving
may have been inclined to allow nonessential activities to
forward, making advancement. People who are progressive
183
17
consume available time. Breaking away from that pattern is Good Examples to Imitate: Most of us do better in
not easy. No one is going to dictate our study habits; nor are field service when there is someone to take the lead. Paul and
we required to make an accounting of what we do in this his companions set a good example, and he urged others to
regard. The consistency of our study habits depends largely imitate him. (Phil. 3:17) His routine included all the elements
on our appreciation of the more important things and our needed to keep himself spiritually strong.
willingness to buy out the opportune time to benefit from 18
Today, too, we are blessed with fine examples. At
them.Phil. 1:10; Eph. 5:16.
Hebrews 13:7, Paul urged: Remember those who are taking
11
Christian meetings play a vital role in our spiritual the lead among you, . . . and as you contemplate how their
progress, providing necessary instruction and encouragement. conduct turns out imitate their faith. Of course, Christ is our
Hence, attending meetings is another essential part of our Exemplar, but we can imitate the faith exercised by those
orderly routine. Paul emphasized the importance of this. It is taking the lead. Like Paul, the elders must be conscious of the
not an option determined by preference.Heb. 10:24, 25. need to be good examples to others. While their personal
12 circumstances may vary, each one should be able to show that
How can orderliness be displayed when we plan our
he is maintaining an orderly routine in keeping Kingdom
weekly schedule of activity? Some arrange for specific times
interests first. Even with secular and family obligations,
to care for personal pursuits and then try to squeeze the
elders should have well-established habits in personal study,
meetings into any available openings, but it should be the
meeting attendance, and taking the lead in the field service.
other way around. Our weekly meetings should be given
By elders giving evidence that they are presiding over their
priority, with other activities planned around them.
households in a fine manner, all in the congregation will be
13
Regular meeting attendance requires good planning and encouraged to keep walking in an orderly routine.1 Tim.
family cooperation. On weekdays most of us have a busy 3:4, 5.
schedule of activity that often leaves us pressed for time. This 19
Goals for the New Service Year: The beginning of a
means that, if possible, the evening meal must be scheduled
new service year is a fitting time to reflect on our personal
early enough for the family to have sufficient time to eat, get
routine. What does a review of our activity for the past year
ready, and arrive at the meeting before it begins. To that end
show? Were we able to maintain, or possibly improve, our
family members can cooperate in various ways.
level of activity? We may have been more thorough in our
14
Regular field service is indispensable if we are to keep personal study. We may have attended meetings with better
walking progressively in an orderly routine. All of us clearly regularity or may have increased our field service by
recognize our weighty responsibility to preach the Kingdom enrolling as auxiliary pioneers. Perhaps we are able to point
message. That is what makes us Jehovahs Witnesses. (Isa. to specific acts of Christian kindness we have performed in
43:10) Since it is the most urgent and beneficial work being behalf of others in our congregation or family. If so, we can
performed today, there is no way that we can properly view it rejoice that we have walked in a way that pleases God, and
as an incidental part of our routine. Paul admonished: Let us we have good reason to keep on doing it more fully.
always offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of 1 Thess. 4:1.
lips which make public declaration to his name.Heb. 20
What if our routine was somewhat inconsistent or
13:15.
sporadic? How were we affected spiritually? Was our
15
When we plan our activity for each week, specific times progress hindered for some reason? Improvement begins with
should be set aside for field service. Likely the congregation a request for Jehovahs help. (Phil. 4:6, 13) Discuss your
has meetings for service arranged several times each week, needs with the rest of the family, requesting their help in
and it is simply a matter of deciding which ones we can adjusting aspects of your routine. If you have problems, ask
support. It would be good to reach out for a share in each the elders for assistance. If we make an earnest effort and
feature of service, such as doing house-to-house work with respond to Jehovahs direction, we can be sure that we will
magazines and other literature, making return visits, and avoid being either inactive or unfruitful.2 Pet. 1:5-8.
conducting Bible studies. We may even plan ahead to do 21
Walking in an orderly routine leads to blessings that
informal witnessing by carrying literature and being alert to
make your efforts worthwhile. As you determine to walk
opportunities to start conversations. Since we usually go out
progressively in an orderly routine, do not loiter at your
with others, we need to inquire about their schedule so that
business. Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah. (Rom.
we can make arrangements that will be mutually convenient.
12:11)For a more detailed treatment of this subject, see
16
Our routine of preaching should be maintained despite The Watchtower of May 1, 1985, pages 13-17.
indifference in the territory. We know in advance that only a
few will respond favorably. (Matt. 13:15; 24:9) Ezekiel was Assisting Students to Dedication and Baptism
commissioned to preach to people who were rebellious, (John 17:3) This means everlasting life, their coming to
insolent, and hardhearted. Jehovah promised to help Ezekiel know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent,
by making his forehead exactly as hard as their foreheads, Jesus Christ.
that is, like a diamond, harder than flint. (Ezek. 2:3, 4; 3:7- (John 3:16) For God loved the world so much that he gave
9) A regular routine for service therefore requires his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in
perseverance. him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.
(Acts 2:21) And everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah
184
will be saved. life. (Psalm 128:1, 2) That is one reason why we share with
(Hebrews 10:24, 25) And let us consider one another so as to others the good things that we have learned from the Bible.
incite to love and fine works, 25 not forsaking our meeting We live by godly values. These values, as taught in the
together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one Bible, promote well-being and respect for others, along with
another, and all the more so as you see the day drawing near. such qualities as honesty and kindness. They contribute to the
(Acts 17:30) True, God has overlooked the times of such development of healthy and productive members of society,
ignorance; but now he is declaring to all people everywhere and they encourage family unity and morality. Convinced that
that they should repent. God is not partial, we belong to a spiritual brotherhood that
(Acts 3:19) Repent, therefore, and turn around so as to get is truly international, free of racial and political barriers.
your sins blotted out, so that seasons of refreshing may come Although we are ordinary, we make up a unique people.
from Jehovah himself Acts 4:13; 10:34, 35.
(2 Corinthians 4:13) Now because we have the same spirit What do Jehovahs Witnesses have in common with other
of faith as that of which it is written: I exercised faith, people?
therefore I spoke; we too exercise faith and therefore we
What values have the Witnesses learned from studying the
speak,
Bible?
(1 Peter 4:2) so that he may live the remainder of his time in
the flesh, no more for the desires of men, but for Gods will. *** jl lesson 2 Why Are We Called Jehovahs Witnesses?
(Matthew 16:24) Then Jesus said to his disciples: If anyone ***
wants to come after me, let him disown himself and pick up Lesson 2
his torture stake and keep following me. Why Are We Called Jehovahs Witnesses?
(1 Peter 3:21) Baptism, which corresponds to this, is also
now saving you (not by the removing of the filth of the flesh, Many people think that Jehovahs Witnesses is the name of a
but by the request to God for a good conscience), through the new religion. However, over 2,700 years ago, the servants of
resurrection of Jesus Christ. the only true God were described as his witnesses. (Isaiah
43:10-12) Until 1931, we were known as Bible Students.
(Psalm 40:8) To do your will, O my God, is my delight, And
Why did we adopt the name Jehovahs Witnesses?
your law is deep within me.
(Psalm 104:33) I will sing to Jehovah throughout my life; I It identifies our God. According to ancient manuscripts,
will sing praises to my God as long as I live. Gods name, Jehovah, appears thousands of times in the
Bible. In many translations this name has been replaced by
(Zechariah 8:23) This is what Jehovah of armies says, In
titles, such as Lord or God. Yet, the true God had revealed
those days ten men out of all the languages of the nations will
himself to Moses by his personal name, Jehovah, saying:
take hold, yes, they will take firm hold of the robe of a Jew,
This is my name to time indefinite. (Exodus 3:15) In this
saying: We want to go with you, for we have heard that God
way, he distinguished himself from all false gods. We are
is with you people.
proud to bear Gods holy name.
Page 131 Unit 15 (a) It describes our mission. A long line of ancient people,
beginning with the righteous man Abel, bore witness about
*** jl lesson 1 What Sort of People Are Jehovahs their faith in Jehovah. Throughout the centuries, Noah,
Witnesses? *** Abraham, Sarah, Moses, David, and others joined this great
Lesson 1 cloud of witnesses. (Hebrews 11:412:1) Just as an
What Sort of People Are Jehovahs Witnesses? individual may bear witness in court in behalf of an innocent
person, we are determined to make known the truth about our
How many of Jehovahs Witnesses do you know? Some of us God.
may be your neighbors, work colleagues, or classmates. Or
we may have engaged you in Bible discussions. Who really We are imitating Jesus. The Bible calls him the faithful and
are we, and why do we publicly share our beliefs? true witness. (Revelation 3:14) Jesus himself said that he
made Gods name known and kept bearing witness to the
We are ordinary people. We come from various truth about God. (John 17:26; 18:37) Christs genuine
backgrounds and social conditions. Some of us formerly followers must, therefore, bear Jehovahs name and make it
practiced a different religion, while others did not believe in known. This is what Jehovahs Witnesses are endeavoring to
God. Before becoming Witnesses, however, all of us took the do.
time to examine carefully the teachings of the Bible. (Acts
17:11) We agreed with what we learned, and then we made a Why did the Bible Students adopt the name Jehovahs
personal choice to worship Jehovah God. Witnesses?

We benefit from studying the Bible. Like everyone else, we For how long has Jehovah had witnesses on earth?
have to deal with problems and our own weaknesses. But by Who is the greatest Witness of Jehovah?
trying to apply Bible principles in our everyday lives, we
have experienced a marked improvement in our quality of [Box/Picture on page 5]
FIND OUT MORE
185
When you meet members of our local congregation, try to get challenges of life and tiredness after a days work, why do
to know them better. Ask them: Why did you become one of Jehovahs Witnesses make such an effort to associate with
Jehovahs Witnesses? fellow believers?
It is good for our well-being. Consider one another, wrote
*** jl lesson 5 What Will You Experience at Our
Paul, speaking of those with whom we associate in the
Christian Meetings? ***
congregation. (Hebrews 10:24) This expression means to
Lesson 5
think about carefully, that is, to get to know one another. So
What Will You Experience at Our Christian Meetings?
the apostles words encourage us to be concerned about
others. By getting to know other Christian families, we
Many people have stopped attending religious services
discover that some of them have successfully overcome
because they find no spiritual guidance or comfort. Why,
challenges similar to our own and that they can help us to
then, should you attend the Christian meetings organized by
succeed as well.
Jehovahs Witnesses? What will you find there?
It builds lasting friendships. At our meetings, we gather
The joy of being among loving and caring people. In the
together, not with mere acquaintances, but with a group of
first century, Christians were organized into congregations,
close friends. On other occasions, we spend time together in
and they held meetings to worship God, to study the
wholesome recreation. What beneficial effect does such
Scriptures, and to encourage one another. (Hebrews
association have? We learn to appreciate one another more,
10:24, 25) Gathered in a loving atmosphere, they felt that
and that strengthens our bonds of love. Then, when our
they were among true friendstheir spiritual brothers.
companions are facing problems, we readily help them
(2 Thessalonians 1:3; 3 John 14) We follow the same pattern
because strong friendships have been established. (Proverbs
and experience similar joy.
17:17) By associating with all members of our congregation,
The benefit of learning how to apply Bible principles. As we show that we have the same care for one another.
was true in Bible times, men, women, and children all meet 1 Corinthians 12:25, 26.
together. Qualified teachers use the Bible to help us discern
We encourage you to choose as your friends those who are
how to apply its principles in our daily life. (Deuteronomy
doing Gods will. You will find such friends among Jehovahs
31:12; Nehemiah 8:8) All may participate in audience
Witnesses. Please do not let anything hold you back from
discussions and in singing, allowing us to express our
associating with us.
Christian hope.Hebrews 10:23.
Why is it in our best interests to associate together at the
The blessing of having your faith in God strengthened.
meetings?
The apostle Paul told one of the congregations in his day: I
am longing to see you, . . . that there may be an interchange When would you like to get acquainted with our
of encouragement among you, by each one through the congregation?
others faith, both yours and mine. (Romans 1:11, 12) At
meetings, our regular contact with fellow believers *** km 9/05 p. 3 Conducting Progressive Bible Studies
strengthens our faith and determination to live a Christian ***
life. Save
Conducting Progressive Bible Studies
Why not accept this invitation to attend our congregations
next meeting and experience these things for yourself? You
This insert is a compilation of key points from
will be warmly welcomed. All meetings are freeno
the series of articles on conducting progressive
collections are ever taken.
Bible studies that has appeared in Our
On what pattern are our congregation meetings based? Kingdom Ministry. All are encouraged to save
this insert and to consult it when conducting
How can we benefit ourselves by attending Christian
Bible studies. In addition, points from this
meetings?
insert may be highlighted during meetings for
[Box/Picture on page 8] field service, and service overseers may use it
FIND OUT MORE as the basis for talks they present when visiting
If you would like to see inside the local Kingdom Hall before book study groups.
you attend one of our meetings, ask one of Jehovahs
Witnesses to take you there and show you around. Part 1: What Is a Bible Study?
If you regularly and systematically have Bible
*** jl lesson 6 How Does Association With Fellow
discussions, though brief, using the Bible or along with it one
Christians Benefit Us? ***
of the recommended publications, you are conducting a Bible
Lesson 6
study. The study may be reported when it has been conducted
How Does Association With Fellow Christians Benefit Us?
two times after the study arrangement is demonstrated and if
there is reason to believe that the study will continue.km
Even if we have to trek through dense jungle or brave harsh
7/04 p. 1.
weather, we regularly attend our Christian meetings. Despite

186
Recommended Publications disappointment to them.
What Does God Require of Us? Others have experienced similar feelings of loss when a
Bible student unexpectedly quits studying. At such times,
Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life
people often ask themselves, Why did I not see this
Worship the Only True God coming? Well, is it possible to determine before spiritual
disaster strikes whether the truth is bearing fruit in those we
You Can Be Gods Friend! may be used to study with people teach? For that matter, how can we be certain that the truth is
who have limited education or reading ability. working in us as well as in those we teach? In his familiar
Part 2: Preparing to Conduct the Study parable of the sower, Jesus provided a clue to the answer to
these questions.
We need to present the information in a way that touches
the students heart. This requires thorough preparation with The Truth Must Reach the Heart
the student in mind.km 8/04 p. 1. The seed is the word of God, Jesus said. As for that
How to Prepare [sown] on the fine soil, these are the ones that, after hearing
the word with a fine and good heart, retain it and bear fruit
Examine the title, subheadings, and visual aids of the with endurance. (Luke 8:11, 15) So before Kingdom truth
chapter or lesson. can produce any results in our students, it has to take root in
Identify the answers to the printed questions, marking only their figurative heart. Jesus assures us that like good seed in
key words and phrases. fine soil, once divine truth has touched a good heart, it
immediately goes to work and bears fruit. What should we
Decide which cited scriptures to read during the study. look for?
Make brief notes in the margin of the study publication.
We must take note of heart qualities, not just outward
Prepare a brief review of main points. show. Merely keeping up a routine of worship does not
Personalize the Lesson always reveal what is really going on in someones heart.
(Jeremiah 17:9, 10; Matthew 15:7-9) We need to look deeper.
Pray about the student and his needs. There should be a definite change in the persons desires,
Anticipate points that the student may have difficulty motives, and priorities. The individual should be developing
understanding or accepting. the new personality, which conforms to Gods will.
(Ephesians 4:20-24) To illustrate: When the Thessalonians
Consider: What does he need to understand or work on in heard the good news, Paul said that they readily accepted it as
order to make spiritual progress? How can I reach his the word of God. But it was their subsequent endurance,
heart? faithfulness, and love that confirmed to him that the truth was
As needed, prepare an illustration, an explanation, or a also at work in [them].1 Thessalonians 2:13, 14; 3:6.
series of questions to help the student grasp a point or a Of course, whatever is in a students heart will sooner or
scripture. later be revealed in his behavior, as Erics example illustrates.
Part 3: Effective Use of the Scriptures (Mark 7:21, 22; James 1:14, 15) Unfortunately, by the time
certain bad traits become fully evident in a persons actions, it
Our purpose in conducting Bible studies is to make might be too late. The challenge, then, is to try to identify
disciples by helping people to understand and accept the specific weaknesses before they become spiritual stumbling
teachings of Gods Word and apply them in their lives. (Matt. blocks. We need a way to look into the figurative heart. How
28:19, 20; 1 Thess. 2:13) Therefore, the study should center can we do that?
on the Scriptures.km 11/04 p. 4.
Learn From Jesus
Jesus, of course, was able to read hearts unerringly.
(Matthew 12:25) None of us can do that. Yet, he showed us
that we too can discern a persons desires, motives, and
priorities. Just as a qualified doctor uses various diagnostic
*** w05 2/1 pp. 28-31 Is the Truth Bearing Fruit in Those techniques to see what is wrong with a patients physical
You Teach? *** heart, Jesus used Gods Word to draw up and expose the
Is the Truth Bearing Fruit in Those You Teach? thoughts and intentions of the heart, even when they were
still hidden from general observation.Proverbs 20:5;
WHEN young Eric announced that he no longer wanted Hebrews 4:12.
to be known as one of Jehovahs Witnesses, his parents were
crushed. They had not seen it coming. As a boy, Eric had For example, on one occasion Jesus helped Peter to
shared in the family Bible study, attended Christian meetings, become aware of a weakness that later did become a
and joined in the preaching work with the congregation. He stumbling block. Jesus knew that Peter loved him. In fact,
had seemed to be in the truth, so to speak. But now that he Jesus had just entrusted Peter with the keys of the kingdom.
was gone, his parents realized that Bible truth had not been in (Matthew 16:13-19) Jesus also knew, however, that Satan had
him. That realization came as both a shock and a his eye on the apostles. In the days ahead, they would come
187
under intense pressure to compromise. Jesus evidently Achan, as recounted in Joshua chapter 7. The boys
discerned that some of his disciples had weaknesses in their immediately got the point and confessed. Their consciences
faith. So he did not shy away from pointing out what they had already been bothering them. So the father had them read
needed to work on. Consider how he brought the matter up Ephesians 4:28, which says: Let the stealer steal no more,
for discussion. but rather let him do hard work . . . that he may have
something to distribute to someone in need. Having the
Matthew 16:21 says: From that time forward Jesus
children make compensation by buying candy and presenting
Christ commenced showing his disciples that he must . . .
it to the teacher reinforced the Scriptural counsel.
suffer . . . and be killed. Notice that Jesus showed them, not
just told them, what would happen to him. Most likely he We tried to root out any bad motives once these were
used Bible verses, such as Psalm 22:14-18 or Isaiah 53:10-12, discerned, the father says, and replace them with good and
that indicate that the Messiah would have to suffer and die. At pure motives by reasoning with the children. By imitating
any rate, by reading or quoting directly from the Scriptures, Jesus when teaching their children, these parents certainly
Jesus gave Peter and the others an opportunity to respond had good results over time. Both sons were eventually invited
from their hearts. How would they react to the prospect of to become members of the headquarters staff at Brooklyn
persecution? Bethel, where one still serves after 25 years.
Surprisingly, as bold and zealous as Peter had shown Consider how another Christian was able to help her
himself to be, his rash response on this occasion revealed a Bible student. The student was attending meetings and
critical flaw in his thinking. Be kind to yourself, Lord, he sharing in the ministry and had already expressed a desire to
said, you will not have this destiny at all. Peters way of get baptized. However, she appeared to be relying too much
thinking was clearly misguided, for as Jesus pointed out, on herself rather than on Jehovah. As a single woman, she
Peter was thinking, not Gods thoughts, but those of men had become more independent than she realized, the Witness
a serious fault that could lead to grave consequences. What, recalls. I worried that she was headed for a physical
then, did Jesus do? After rebuking Peter, Jesus told him and breakdown or a spiritual fall.
the rest of the disciples: If anyone wants to come after me,
So the Witness took the initiative to reason with the
let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake and
student on Matthew 6:33, encouraging her to adjust her
continually follow me. Drawing on thoughts found at Psalm
priorities, put the Kingdom first, and trust in Jehovah to work
49:8 and 62:12, he kindly reminded them that their
matters out for the best. She asked her frankly: Does living
everlasting prospects lay, not with men, who could not
on your own sometimes make it difficult for you to rely on
provide salvation, but with God.Matthew 16:22-28.
others, including Jehovah? The student admitted that she had
Though Peter later temporarily succumbed to fear and almost quit praying. The publisher then encouraged her to
denied Jesus three times, this discussion and others no doubt follow the advice found at Psalm 55:22 and throw her burden
helped to prepare him for a rapid spiritual recovery. (John on Jehovah because, as 1 Peter 5:7 assures us, he cares for
21:15-19) Just 50 days later, Peter boldly stood up before the you. Those words touched her heart. The Witness says,
crowds in Jerusalem to testify to Jesus resurrection. In the That was one of the few times that I saw her cry.
weeks, months, and years to follow, he courageously faced
Keep the Truth Working in You
repeated arrests, beatings, and incarceration, setting an
outstanding example of fearless integrity.Acts 2:14-36; Seeing those we teach respond to Bible truth brings us
4:18-21; 5:29-32, 40-42; 12:3-5. great joy. If our efforts to help others are to have success,
though, we have to set a good example ourselves.
What do we learn from this? Can you see what Jesus did
(Jude 22, 23) All of us need to keep working out [our] own
to draw up and expose what was in Peters heart? First, he
salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12) That
selected appropriate scriptures to focus Peters attention on
includes regularly letting the light of the Scriptures shine on
the specific area of concern. Next, he gave Peter an
our own hearts, searching for attitudes, desires, and affections
opportunity to respond from the heart. Finally, he provided
that might need correction.2 Peter 1:19.
further Scriptural counsel to help Peter adjust his thinking
and feelings. You might feel that this level of teaching is For instance, has your zeal for Christian activities
beyond your ability, but let us consider two experiences that diminished lately? If so, why? One reason might be that you
illustrate how preparation and reliance on Jehovah can help are relying too much on yourself. How can you tell whether
any one of us to follow Jesus example. this is so? Read Haggai 1:2-11, and honestly reflect on
Jehovahs line of reasoning with the repatriated Jews. Then
Drawing Up What Is in the Heart
ask yourself: Am I overly concerned with financial security
When one Christian father learned that his two sons in the and material comforts? Do I really trust Jehovah to care for
first and second grades had taken candy from the teachers my family if I give spiritual things priority? Or do I feel that I
desk, he sat them down and reasoned with them. Rather than have to take care of myself first? If adjustments in your
simply dismiss this as a harmless, childish prank, the father thinking or feelings are needed, do not hesitate to make them.
relates, I tried to draw out of their hearts what had motivated Scriptural counsel, such as that found at Matthew 6:25-33,
them to do this bad thing. Luke 12:13-21, and 1 Timothy 6:6-12, provides the basis for
a balanced view of material needs and possessions, one that
The father asked the boys to recall what happened to
secures Jehovahs continued blessing.Malachi 3:10.
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This kind of frank self-examination can be sobering. a dedication is a personal vow. It is followed by water
Admitting to specific weaknesses when they are pointed out baptism.
to us can be hard emotionally. Yet, when you lovingly take 3
Jesus provided an example for us when he made a
the initiative to help your child, your Bible student, or even
personal choice to do Gods will. Because he had been born
yourselfno matter how personal or sensitive a matter might
into the dedicated nation of Israel, he was already dedicated
beyou may well be taking the first step toward saving his
to God. Still, at his baptism he did something more than what
life or your own.Galatians 6:1.
was required under the Law. Gods Word indicates that he
What, though, if your efforts do not seem to be producing said: Look! I am come . . . to do your will, O God. (Heb.
good results? Do not give up quickly. Adjusting an imperfect 10:7; Luke 3:21) So Jesus baptism symbolized his
heart can be a delicate, time-consuming, and sometimes presentation of himself to God for the doing of his Fathers
frustrating endeavor. But it can also be rewarding. will. His followers imitate his example when they offer
themselves for baptism. However, in their case, water
Young Eric, mentioned at the outset, eventually came to
baptism is a public demonstration that they have made a
his senses and again started walking in the truth. (2 John 4)
personal dedication to God in prayer.
It wasnt until I realized what I had lost that I turned back to
Jehovah, he says. With the help of his parents, Eric is now How Dedication Benefits Us
serving God faithfully. Although he once resented his parents 4
Christian dedication is a serious matter. It is more than a
repeated efforts to get him to search his heart, now he deeply
mere commitment. How, though, does making a dedication
appreciates what they did. My parents are wonderful, he
benefit us? By way of comparison, let us consider how
says. They never stopped loving me.
making a commitment in human relationships brings benefits.
Shining the light of Gods Word on the heart of those we One example is friendship. To enjoy the privilege of having a
teach is an expression of loving-kindness. (Psalm 141:5) friend, you have to accept the responsibility of being a friend.
Continue to search the heart of your children and your Bible That involves a commitmentyou feel an obligation to care
students for evidence that the new Christian personality is about your friend. One of the most outstanding friendships
actually taking hold in them. Keep the truth working in others described in the Bible is that of David and Jonathan. They
and in yourself by handling the word of the truth aright. even made a covenant of friendship with each other. (Read
2 Timothy 2:15. 1 Samuel 17:57; 18:1, 3.) Although friendships with that
level of commitment are rare, most friendships flourish when
[Picture on page 29]
companions are committed, or feel some obligation, to each
Jesus words revealed a weakness in Peter
other.Prov. 17:17; 18:24.
[Picture on page 31] 5
The Law that God gave to Israel describes another
Use the Bible to draw up what is in the heart
relationship in which people benefited by making a
commitment. If a slave wanted the security of belonging
permanently to a good master, he could enter a permanent
and binding agreement with him. The Law states: If the
*** w10 1/15 pp. 3-7 Why Dedicate Yourself to Jehovah?
slave should insistently say, I really love my master, my wife
***
and my sons; I do not want to go out as one set free, then his
Why Dedicate Yourself to Jehovah?
master must bring him near to the true God and must bring
him up against the door or the doorpost; and his master must
This night there stood near me an angel of the pierce his ear through with an awl, and he must be his slave
God to whom I belong.ACTS 27:23. to time indefinite.Ex. 21:5, 6.
6
ON THE basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, have you Marriage is a relationship that requires a high level of
repented of your sins and dedicated yourself to Jehovah to do commitment. It is a commitment, not to a contract, but to a
his will? This is one of the two questions answered by person. Two people who merely live together without getting
baptismal candidates at the conclusion of a baptism talk. Why married can never enjoy real security; neither can their
do Christians need to dedicate themselves to Jehovah? How children. But partners who are committed to each other in
does being dedicated to God benefit us? Why can one not honorable marriage have an impelling Scriptural reason for
worship God acceptably without being dedicated to him? To striving to resolve their difficulties with love when problems
understand the answers, we first need to consider what arise.Matt. 19:5, 6; 1 Cor. 13:7, 8; Heb. 13:4.
dedication is. 7
In Bible times, people benefited from having binding
2
What does dedicating oneself to God mean? Note how contracts in business and employment. (Matt. 20:1, 2, 8)
the apostle Paul described his relationship with God. Before Today, the same holds true. For example, we benefit from
many others aboard an imperiled ship, he called Jehovah the having a binding written agreement, or written contract,
God to whom I belong. (Read Acts 27:22-24.) All true before we begin a business venture or start working as an
Christians belong to Jehovah. In contrast, the world in employee in a company. Hence, if commitment enhances
general is lying in the power of the wicked one. (1 John relationships such as friendship, marriage, and employment,
5:19) Christians come to belong to Jehovah when they make how much more will making an unreserved dedication benefit
an acceptable dedication of themselves to him in prayer. Such you in your relationship with Jehovah! Let us now consider
189
how people in the past have benefited from being dedicated needs to make a solemn promise to Jehovah. To understand
to Jehovah God and how this was far more than just a why, imagine a respectable father who shows kind interest in
commitment. an orphaned youth and wishes to adopt him as a member of
his own family. The father is known to be a good man. Still,
How Dedication to God Benefited Israel
before accepting the youth as his son, the man wants the boy
8
The nation of Israel as a whole became dedicated to to make a promise. So the man says, Before I accept you as
Jehovah when they made a vow to God. Jehovah had them a son, I need to know that you will love and respect me as
assemble near Mount Sinai, and he said to them: If you will your father. Only if the youth is willing to make a solemn
strictly obey my voice and will indeed keep my covenant, promise will the man admit him into his family. Is that not
then you will certainly become my special property out of all reasonable? Similarly, Jehovah accepts into his family only
other peoples. The people answered unanimously: All that those who are willing to make a vow of dedication to him.
Jehovah has spoken we are willing to do. (Ex. 19:4-8) Being The Bible says: Offer your very selves to him: a living
dedicated meant much more for Israel than being committed sacrifice, dedicated and fit for his acceptance.Rom. 12:1,
to do something. It meant that they belonged to Jehovah, and The New English Bible.
Jehovah treated them as his special property.
An Act of Love and Faith
9
The Israelites benefited from belonging to Jehovah. He 14
Making a vow of dedication to God is an expression of
was loyal and cared for them as a loving parent cares for a
our heartfelt love for Jehovah. In some ways it is similar to a
child. To Israel, God said: Can a wife forget her suckling so
wedding vow. A Christian bridegroom expresses his love by
that she should not pity the son of her belly? Even these
vowing to be loyal to his bride, come what may. It is a pledge
women can forget, yet I myself shall not forget you. (Isa.
to a person rather than merely a promise to do something. A
49:15) Jehovah gave them the guidance of the Law, the
Christian bridegroom understands that he could not have the
encouragement of the prophets, and the protection of the
privilege of living with his bride if he would not make a
angels. A psalmist wrote: He is telling his word to Jacob, his
marriage vow. In a similar way, we cannot fully enjoy the
regulations and his judicial decisions to Israel. He has not
benefits of being a member of Jehovahs family without
done that way to any other nation. (Ps. 147:19, 20; read
making a vow of dedication. So we dedicate ourselves to God
Psalm 34:7, 19; 48:14.) As Jehovah cared for the nation that
because, in spite of our imperfection, we desire to belong to
belonged to him in the past, so he will care for those who
him and are resolved to be loyal to him, come what may.
dedicate themselves to him today.
Matt. 22:37.
Why We Should Dedicate Ourselves to God 15
When we dedicate ourselves to God, we perform an act
10
While contemplating Christian dedication and baptism, of faith. Why is that so? Our faith in Jehovah makes us
some may wonder, Why can I not worship God without confident that drawing close to God is good for us. (Ps.
dedicating myself to him? The reason becomes clear when 73:28) We know that it will not always be easy to walk with
we consider the reality of our present standing before God. God while living among a crooked and twisted generation,
Remember, because of Adams sin, we are all born outside but we trust in Gods promise to support us in our efforts.
Gods family. (Rom. 3:23; 5:12) Dedicating ourselves to God (Phil. 2:15; 4:13) We know that we are imperfect, but we are
is a vital requirement for being accepted into his universal confident that Jehovah will deal mercifully with us even
family. Let us see why. when we make mistakes. (Read Psalm 103:13, 14; Romans
11 7:21-25.) We have faith that Jehovah will reward our resolve
None of us have a natural father who could pass on to to keep our integrity.Job 27:5.
us life as it should beperfect life. (1 Tim. 6:19) We were
not born as sons of God because when the first human pair Dedication to God Leads to Happiness
sinned, the human race was separated from its loving Father 16
Being dedicated to Jehovah results in happiness because
and Creator. (Compare Deuteronomy 32:5.) From that time
it involves the giving of ourselves. Jesus stated a basic truth
onward, the world of mankind has lived outside Jehovahs
when he said: There is more happiness in giving than there
universal family, alienated from God.
is in receiving. (Acts 20:35) Jesus fully experienced the
12
Nevertheless, as individuals we can request that God happiness of giving during his earthly ministry. When
accept us into his family of approved servants. How is that necessary, he went without rest, food, and comfort so that he
possible for sinners such as we are? The apostle Paul wrote: could help others to find the road to life. (John 4:34) Jesus
When we were enemies, we became reconciled to God found delight in making his Fathers heart rejoice. Jesus said:
through the death of his Son. (Rom. 5:10) At baptism we I always do the things pleasing to him.John 8:29; Prov.
make a request to God for a good conscience so as to be 27:11.
acceptable to him. (1 Pet. 3:21) Prior to baptism, however, 17
Thus, Jesus pointed his followers toward a satisfying
there are steps we must take. We must get to know God, learn
way of life when he said: If anyone wants to come after me,
to trust him, repent, and change our ways. (John 17:3; Acts
let him disown himself. (Matt. 16:24) Doing so draws us
3:19; Heb. 11:6) And something else remains to be done
closer to Jehovah. Could we place ourselves in the hands of
before we can be accepted into Gods family. What is that?
anyone else who could care for us more lovingly?
13
Before someone who is alienated from God can become 18
Dedicating ourselves to Jehovah and thereafter living in
a member of Gods family of approved servants, he first
190
harmony with that dedication by doing his will brings more faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with
happiness than being dedicated to anything or anyone else. thanksgiving.
For example, many people devote their life to the pursuit of
material wealth without attaining true happiness and genuine *** km 3/09 p. 2 How to Use the Gods Love Book to
satisfaction. However, those who dedicate themselves to Conduct Bible Studies ***
Jehovah find long-lasting happiness. (Matt. 6:24) The honor
of being Gods fellow workers makes them happy, yet their How to Use the Gods Love Book to Conduct Bible
dedication is not to a work but to our appreciative God. Studies
(1 Cor. 3:9) No one could be more appreciative of their self-
sacrifice than he is. He will even restore his loyal ones to 1
How thrilled we were at our Guided by Gods Spirit
their youth so that they can benefit from his care forever. District Convention to receive the new book Keep
Job 33:25; read Hebrews 6:10. Yourselves in Gods Love! As announced, this publication is
19 designed to help us know and love Jehovahs standards of
Dedicating your life to Jehovah brings you into a close
conduct and not for teaching basic Bible doctrines. We will
relationship with him. The Bible says: Draw close to God,
not be offering this book from door to door.
and he will draw close to you. (Jas. 4:8; Ps. 25:14) In the
following article, we will consider why we can be confident 2
This book will serve as the second publication to be
about making the choice to belong to Jehovah. studied with Bible students after completing the Bible Teach
book. Keep in mind that people have different rates of
[Footnote]
spiritual growth. Each study should be conducted at a pace
Jesus other sheep will not become sons of God until the comfortable to the student. Make sure that the material
end of the thousand years. However, since they have considered is clearly understood. In most cases, this book
dedicated themselves to God, they can properly address should not be used to start Bible studies with people who may
God as Father and can rightly be considered members have already studied several books in the past but who are not
of Jehovahs family of worshippers.John 10:16; Isa. attending congregation meetings and clearly are not
64:8; Matt. 6:9; Rev. 20:5. interested in conforming their lives to the Bible truths they
were taught.
How Would You Answer?
3
If you are presently conducting a study in the Worship
What does dedicating oneself to God mean?
God book and are in the last few chapters, you may decide to
How does being dedicated to God benefit us? complete that publication and to encourage the student to
read the Gods Love book on his own. Otherwise, it would
Why do Christians need to be dedicated to Jehovah? be best to transfer to the new book and start from the
[Picture on page 6] beginning. As with the Bible Teach book, discussion of the
Living in harmony with our dedication leads to our lasting topics in the appendix is optional.
happiness 4
If a student gets baptized before completing both books,
then the study should continue until the Gods Love book is
(Matthew 24:13) But the one who has endured to the end finished. Even though the student is baptized, you may report
will be saved. the time, the return visit, and the study. A publisher who
(Matthew 28:19, 20) Go, therefore, and make disciples of accompanies you and participates in the study may also count
people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the the time.
Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them 5
to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I If you are assigned by a member of the Congregation
am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of Service Committee to conduct a Bible study with someone
things. who has become inactive in the preaching work, you may be
asked to consider specific chapters in the Gods Love book.
Press On to Maturity Such studies need not be conducted for a prolonged period of
(Acts 14:22) There they strengthened the disciples, time. What a fine provision we have in this new book, which
encouraging them to remain in the faith and saying: We has been designed to help us remain in Gods love!
must enter into the Kingdom of God through many Jude 21.
tribulations.
*** km 6/00 p. 4 pars. 7-8 How Could I . . . Unless
(Galatians 6:10) So, then, as long as we have the Someone Guided Me? ***
opportunity, let us work what is good toward all, but
7
especially toward those related to us in the faith. It is a mark of Christian love to give close, personal
(1 Peter 4:10) To the extent that each one has received a gift, attention to each interested person with whom we study. Our
use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of Gods objective is to help the student achieve greater insight into the
undeserved kindness that is expressed in various ways. truth of Gods Word. Then he can take a definite,
knowledgeable stand for the truth and dedicate his life to
(Colossians 2:6, 7) Therefore, just as you have accepted Jehovah, symbolizing that dedication by water baptism.Ps.
Christ Jesus the Lord, go on walking in union with him,
7 40:8; Eph. 3:17-19.
being rooted and built up in him and being stabilized in the
191
8 7
Do you remember what happened after the Ethiopian being rooted and built up in him and being stabilized in the
eunuch was baptized? He kept going on his way rejoicing faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with
as a new disciple of Jesus Christ. (Acts 8:39, 40) May we and thanksgiving.
those whom we successfully guide in the way of the truth (2 Timothy 3:12) In fact, all those desiring to live with godly
find great joy in serving Jehovah Godnow and forever! devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be
*** km 4/11 p. 2 Question Box *** persecuted.
Question Box
(1 Peter 5:8, 9) Keep your senses, be watchful! Your
adversary, the Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking
How long should we study with a progressive Bible
to devour someone. 9 But take your stand against him, firm in
student?
the faith, knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being
It is best to continue studying with a progressive Bible experienced by the entire association of your brothers in the
student until he has completed two publicationsWhat Does world.
the Bible Really Teach? and Keep Yourselves in Gods
Love. This is true even if the student gets baptized before Page 133 Unit 15 (b)
finishing both books. After his baptism we may continue to
report the time, the return visits, and the study. If a publisher
accompanies us and participates in the study, he may also Pioneer Service School Review Day 5
count the time.See the March 2009 Our Kingdom Ministry, Unit 13 (a) Learn from the Master
page 2. (John 14:23) In answer Jesus said to him: If anyone loves
It is important for new ones to have a good foundation in me, he will observe my word, and my Father will love him,
the truth before they are left on their own. They need to be and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.
rooted in Christ and stabilized in the faith so as to
withstand the trials they are sure to face. (Col. 2:6, 7; 2 Tim. Unit 13 (a) Conduct Progressive Bible Studies Part 1
3:12; 1 Pet. 5:8, 9) Additionally, to teach others effectively, (Matthew 28:20) teaching them to observe all the things I
they must have an accurate knowledge of truth. (1 Tim. have commanded you. And look! I am with you all the days
2:4) By completing two books with our students, we are until the conclusion of the system of things.
helping them attain a solid footing on the road leading off
into life.Matt. 7:14. Unit 13 (a) Conduct Progressive Bible Studies Part 2
Before approving someone for baptism, elders should (Luke 6:40) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone
ensure that he clearly understands primary Bible teachings who is perfectly instructed will be like his teacher.
and is living in harmony with them. Elders should be
especially careful when considering a student who has not yet Page 134 Unit 15 (b)
completed the first study book. If someone is not ready for
baptism, the elders will make sure that he receives the Unit 14 (b) Workshop 4
necessary personal assistance in order to qualify for baptism Conduct Progressive Bible Studies
in the future.See Organized to Do Jehovahs Will, (3 John 4) No greater joy do I have than this: that I should
pages 217-218. hear that my children go on walking in the truth.
[Blurb on page 2] Unit 15 (a) Help Others Press on to Maturity
It is important for new ones to have a good foundation in the
truth (Hebrews 6:1) Therefore, now that we have moved beyond
the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to
1z maturity, not laying a foundation again, namely, repentance
from dead works and faith in God,
Page 132 Unit 15 (a)
Page 135 blank
(Matthew 5:23, 24) If, then, you are bringing your gift to Page 136 Unit 16 (a)
the altar and there you remember that your brother has
something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the (Proverbs 2:6-8) For Jehovah himself gives wisdom; From
altar, and go away. First make your peace with your brother, his mouth come knowledge and discernment. 7 He treasures
and then come back and offer your gift. up practical wisdom for the upright; He is a shield for those
(Matthew 18:21, 22) Then Peter came and said to him: walking in integrity. 8 He watches over the paths of justice,
Lord, how many times is my brother to sin against me and And he will guard the way of his loyal ones.
am I to forgive him? Up to seven times? 22 Jesus said to him: (Proverbs 10:29) The way of Jehovah is a stronghold for the
I say to you, not up to seven times, but up to 77 times. blameless one, But it means ruin for evildoers.
(Romans 12:18) If possible, as far as it depends on you, be (Nehemiah 8:1-12) All the people then gathered with one
peaceable with all men. accord at the public square in front of the Water Gate, and
(Colossians 2:6, 7) Therefore, just as you have accepted they told Ezra the copyist to bring the book of the Law of
Christ Jesus the Lord, go on walking in union with him, Moses, which Jehovah had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the
192
priest brought the Law before the congregation of men, the Source of all good things (Jas 1:17), all intelligent
women, and all who could listen with understanding, on the creatures, both mankind and angels, can find their chief
first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read aloud from it enjoyment in coming to know him. (Jer 9:23, 24) King David
before the public square in front of the Water Gate, from said: Let my musing about him be pleasurable. I, for my
daybreak until midday, to the men, the women, and all who part, shall rejoice in Jehovah. (Ps 104:34) He also sang:
could understand; and the people listened attentively to the The righteous one will rejoice in Jehovah and will indeed
book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the copyist was standing on a take refuge in him; and all the upright in heart will boast. (Ps
wooden podium made for the occasion; and standing 64:10) The apostle Paul urged Christians to take joy at all
alongside him on his right were Mattithiah, Shema, Anai times in their knowledge of Jehovah and his dealing with
ah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah; and on his left were them, writing to them: Always rejoice in the Lord
Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hash-baddanah, [Jehovah, in several versions]. Once more I will say,
Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 Ezra opened the book in the Rejoice!Php 4:4.
sight of all the people, for he was above all the people. As he
opened it, all the people stood up. 6 Then Ezra praised (Deuteronomy 28:47) because you did not serve Jehovah
Jehovah the true God, the great One, at which all the people your God with rejoicing and joy of heart when you had such
answered, Amen! Amen! and lifted up their hands. They an abundance of everything.
then bowed low and prostrated themselves to Jehovah with (Proverbs 15:13) A joyful heart makes for a cheerful
their faces to the ground. 7 And Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, countenance, But heartache crushes the spirit.
Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita,
(Proverbs 17:22) A joyful heart is good medicine, But a
Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Pelaiah, who were
crushed spirit saps ones strength.
Levites, were explaining the Law to the people, while the
people remained standing. 8 And they continued reading (Galatians 5:22) On the other hand, the fruitage of the spirit
aloud from the book, from the Law of the true God, clearly is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
explaining it and putting meaning into it; so they helped the
people to understand what was being read. 9 And Nehemi Page 137 Unit 16 (a)
ah, who was then the governor, Ezra the priest and copyist,
and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all the (John 6:44) No man can come to me unless the Father, who
people: This day is holy to Jehovah your God. Do not mourn sent me, draws him, and I will resurrect him on the last day.
or weep. For all the people were weeping as they heard the
(Ephesians 4:18) They are in darkness mentally and
words of the Law. 10 He said to them: Go, eat the choice
alienated from the life that belongs to God, because of the
things and drink what is sweet, and send portions of food to
ignorance that is in them, because of the insensitivity of their
those who have nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our
hearts.
Lord, and do not feel sad, for the joy of Jehovah is your
stronghold. 11 And the Levites were calming all the people, (Romans 5:8) But God recommends his own love to us in
saying: Be quiet! for this day is holy, and do not feel sad. that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
12
So all the people went away to eat and to drink and to send (Romans 5:18, 19) So, then, as through one trespass the
out portions of food and to carry on a great rejoicing, for they result to men of all sorts was condemnation, so too through
understood the words that had been made known to them. one act of justification the result to men of all sorts is their
being declared righteous for life. 19 For just as through the
disobedience of the one man many were made sinners, so
QUESTION OUTLINE
also through the obedience of the one person many will be
(Deuteronomy 16:15) Seven days you will celebrate the made righteous.
festival to Jehovah your God in the place that Jehovah
(Colossians 1:21-23) Indeed, you who were once alienated
chooses, for Jehovah your God will bless all your produce
and enemies because your minds were on the works that were
and all that you do, and you will become nothing but joyful.
wicked, 22 he has now reconciled by means of that ones
fleshly body through his death, in order to present you holy
*** it-2 p. 119 Joy ***
and unblemished and open to no accusation before him
23
or expectation of good; state of happiness; exultation. The provided, of course, that you continue in the faith,
Hebrew and Greek words used in the Bible for joy, established on the foundation and steadfast, not being shifted
exultation, rejoicing, and being glad express various shades away from the hope of that good news that you heard and that
of meaning, different stages or degrees of joy. The verbs was preached in all creation under heaven. Of this good news
involved express the inner feeling and the outward I, Paul, became a minister.
manifestation of joy and variously mean be joyful; exult; (John 8:32) and you will know the truth, and the truth will
shout for joy; leap for joy. set you free.
Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Jehovah is called the (1 Corinthians 2:9, 10) But just as it is written: Eye has not
happy God. (1Ti 1:11) He creates and works with joy for seen and ear has not heard, nor have there been conceived in
himself and his creatures. What he brings about makes him the heart of man the things that God has prepared for those
joyful. (Ps 104:31) He wants his creatures likewise to enjoy who love him. 10 For it is to us God has revealed them
his works and to enjoy their own work. (Ec 5:19) Since he is through his spirit, for the spirit searches into all things, even

193
the deep things of God. what is joy? It is the delightful emotion caused by the
(Revelation 18:1-8) After this I saw another angel expectation or acquisition of good. Joy is a state of true
descending from heaven with great authority, and the earth happiness, even exultation. This fruit of Gods holy spirit
was illuminated by his glory. 2 And he cried out with a strong sustains us under trial. For the joy that was set before him
voice, saying: She has fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen, [Jesus] endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat
and she has become a dwelling place of demons and a place down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)
where every unclean spirit and every unclean and hated bird The disciple James wrote: Consider it all joy, my brothers,
lurks! 3 For because of the wine of the passion of her sexual when you meet with various trials, knowing as you do that
immorality, all the nations have fallen victim, and the kings this tested quality of your faith works out endurance. But
of the earth committed sexual immorality with her, and the what if we do not know what to do about a certain trial? Then
merchants of the earth became rich owing to the power of her we can confidently pray for wisdom to deal with it. Acting in
shameless luxury. 4 And I heard another voice out of heaven harmony with heavenly wisdom enables us to resolve
say: Get out of her, my people, if you do not want to share problems or to cope with persistent trials without losing the
with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of joy of Jehovah.James 1:2-8.
her plagues. 5 For her sins have massed together clear up to 6
The joy that Jehovah gives strengthens us to promote
heaven, and God has called her acts of injustice to mind. true worship. That is what happened in the days of Nehemiah
6
Repay her in the way she treated others, yes, pay her back and Ezra. Jews of that time who had the joy of Jehovah as
double for the things she has done; in the cup she has mixed, their stronghold were strengthened to further the interests of
mix a double portion for her. 7 To the extent that she glorified true worship. And as they promoted the worship of Jehovah,
herself and lived in shameless luxury, to that extent give her their joy increased. The same is true today. As worshipers of
torment and mourning. For she keeps saying in her heart: I Jehovah, we have grounds for great rejoicing. Let us now
sit as queen, and I am not a widow, and I will never see consider a few more of our many reasons for joy.
mourning. 8 That is why in one day her plagues will come,
death and mourning and famine, and she will be completely A Life of Purpose
burned with fire, because Jehovah God, who judged her, is (Matthew 6:9, 10) You must pray, then, this way: Our
strong. Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. 10 Let your
(Proverbs 4:18) But the path of the righteous is like the Kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also
bright morning light That grows brighter and brighter until on earth.
full daylight. (Philippians 4:4) Always rejoice in the Lord. Again I will
(Deuteronomy 16:13-15) You should celebrate the Festival say, Rejoice!
of Booths for seven days when you make an ingathering from (1 Timothy 1:11) according to the glorious good news of the
your threshing floor and from your press for oil and wine. happy God, with which I was entrusted.
14
Rejoice during your festival, you and your son, your
daughter, your male slave, your female slave, the Levite, the
foreign resident, the fatherless child, and the widow, who are Page 138 Unit 16 (a)
inside your cities. 15 Seven days you will celebrate the festival
to Jehovah your God in the place that Jehovah chooses, for (Isaiah 55:6) Search for Jehovah while he may be found.
Jehovah your God will bless all your produce and all that you Call to him while he is near.
do, and you will become nothing but joyful.
(Ecclesiastes 5:19) Also, when the true God gives a man
riches and material possessions along with the ability to enjoy
*** w95 1/15 pp. 11-12 The Joy of Jehovah Is Our
them, he should take his reward and rejoice in his hard work.
Stronghold ***
This is the gift of God.
Nothing but Joyful
4 *** it-2 p. 119 Joy ***
One outstanding reason for joy is the provision Jehovah JOY
makes for assembling together. The assemblies and
conventions of Jehovahs Witnesses bring them joy today,
The emotion excited by the acquisition or expectation of
just as the annual festivals held by the Israelites brought joy
good; state of happiness; exultation. The Hebrew and Greek
to their hearts. The people of Israel were told: Seven days
words used in the Bible for joy, exultation, rejoicing, and
you will celebrate the festival [of booths] to Jehovah your
being glad express various shades of meaning, different
God in the place that Jehovah will choose, because Jehovah
stages or degrees of joy. The verbs involved express the inner
your God will bless you in all your produce and in every deed
feeling and the outward manifestation of joy and variously
of your hand, and you must become nothing but joyful.
mean be joyful; exult; shout for joy; leap for joy.
(Deuteronomy 16:13-15) Yes, God wanted them to become
nothing but joyful. The same is true of Christians, for the Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Jehovah is called the
apostle Paul urged fellow believers: Always rejoice in the happy God. (1Ti 1:11) He creates and works with joy for
Lord. Once more I will say, Rejoice!Philippians 4:4. himself and his creatures. What he brings about makes him
5 joyful. (Ps 104:31) He wants his creatures likewise to enjoy
Since Jehovah wants us to be joyful, he gives us joy as
his works and to enjoy their own work. (Ec 5:19) Since he is
one of the fruits of his holy spirit. (Galatians 5:22, 23) And
194
the Source of all good things (Jas 1:17), all intelligent the feet of those who declare good news of good things!
creatures, both mankind and angels, can find their chief (1 Corinthians 3:5-9) What, then, is Apollos? Yes, what is
enjoyment in coming to know him. (Jer 9:23, 24) King David Paul? Ministers through whom you became believers, just as
said: Let my musing about him be pleasurable. I, for my the Lord granted each one. 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but
part, shall rejoice in Jehovah. (Ps 104:34) He also sang: God kept making it grow, 7 so that neither is the one who
The righteous one will rejoice in Jehovah and will indeed plants anything nor is the one who waters, but God who
take refuge in him; and all the upright in heart will boast. (Ps makes it grow. 8 Now the one who plants and the one who
64:10) The apostle Paul urged Christians to take joy at all waters are one, but each person will receive his own reward
times in their knowledge of Jehovah and his dealing with according to his own work. 9 For we are Gods fellow
them, writing to them: Always rejoice in the Lord workers. You are Gods field under cultivation, Gods
[Jehovah, in several versions]. Once more I will say, building.
Rejoice!Php 4:4.
(Haggai 2:7) And I will shake all the nations, and the
precious things of all the nations will come in; and I will fill
this house with glory, says Jehovah of armies.
(Philippians 4:4) Always rejoice in the Lord. Again I will
say, Rejoice! (1 Peter 5:5-11) In the same way, you younger men, be in
subjection to the older men. But all of you clothe yourselves
*** it-2 p. 119 Joy *** with humility toward one another, because God opposes the
JOY haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the
humble ones. 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the
The emotion excited by the acquisition or expectation of mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time,
7
good; state of happiness; exultation. The Hebrew and Greek while you throw all your anxiety on him, because he cares
words used in the Bible for joy, exultation, rejoicing, and for you. 8 Keep your senses, be watchful! Your adversary, the
being glad express various shades of meaning, different Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour
stages or degrees of joy. The verbs involved express the inner someone. 9 But take your stand against him, firm in the faith,
feeling and the outward manifestation of joy and variously knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being
mean be joyful; exult; shout for joy; leap for joy. experienced by the entire association of your brothers in the
world. 10 But after you have suffered a little while, the God of
Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Jehovah is called the all undeserved kindness, who called you to his everlasting
happy God. (1Ti 1:11) He creates and works with joy for glory in union with Christ, will himself finish your training.
himself and his creatures. What he brings about makes him He will make you firm, he will make you strong, he will
joyful. (Ps 104:31) He wants his creatures likewise to enjoy firmly ground you. 11 To him be the might forever. Amen.
his works and to enjoy their own work. (Ec 5:19) Since he is
the Source of all good things (Jas 1:17), all intelligent
creatures, both mankind and angels, can find their chief
enjoyment in coming to know him. (Jer 9:23, 24) King David Page 139 Unit 16 (a)
said: Let my musing about him be pleasurable. I, for my
part, shall rejoice in Jehovah. (Ps 104:34) He also sang: (Psalm 133:1) Look! How good and how pleasant it is For
The righteous one will rejoice in Jehovah and will indeed brothers to dwell together in unity!
take refuge in him; and all the upright in heart will boast. (Ps (Mark 10:29, 30) Jesus said: Truly I say to you, no one has
64:10) The apostle Paul urged Christians to take joy at all left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children
times in their knowledge of Jehovah and his dealing with or fields for my sake and for the sake of the good news 30 who
them, writing to them: Always rejoice in the Lord will not get 100 times more now in this period of time
[Jehovah, in several versions]. Once more I will say, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields, with
Rejoice!Php 4:4. persecutionsand in the coming system of things,
everlasting life.
(Isaiah 52:7) How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of
the one bringing good news, The one proclaiming peace, The (1 Peter 2:17) Honor men of all sorts, have love for the
one bringing good news of something better, The one whole association of brothers, be in fear of God, honor the
proclaiming salvation, The one saying to Zion: Your God king.
has become King! (Philippians 2:17) However, even if I am being poured out
(Luke 15:10) In the same way, I tell you, joy arises among like a drink offering on the sacrifice and the holy service to
the angels of God over one sinner who repents. which your faith has led you, I am glad and I rejoice with all
of you.
(Acts 20:35) I have shown you in all things that by working
hard in this way, you must assist those who are weak and (Proverbs 11:25) The generous person will prosper, And
must keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, when he whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
himself said: There is more happiness in giving than there is
in receiving. An Unfailing Stronghold
(Romans 10:15) How, in turn, will they preach unless they (Psalm 59:16, 17) But as for me, I will sing about your
have been sent out? Just as it is written: How beautiful are strength; In the morning I will joyfully tell about your loyal
195
love. For you are my secure refuge And a place for me to flee Jehovah Blesses Those Trusting in Him
in my time of distress. 17 O my Strength, to you I will sing
praises, For God is my secure refuge, the God who shows OPENING DISCUSSION
loyal love to me.
(Psalm 100:2) Serve Jehovah with rejoicing. Come into his (Proverbs 3:5, 6) Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, And
presence with joyful shouting. do not rely on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways
take notice of him, And he will make your paths straight.
(Hebrews 12:2) as we look intently at the Chief Agent and
Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. For the joy that was set before (Proverbs 3:5) Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, And do
him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat not rely on your own understanding.
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Romans 12:1) Therefore, I appeal to you by the
(James 1:2) Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet compassions of God, brothers, to present your bodies as a
with various trials, living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service
with your power of reason.
Read and discuss: (Colossians 1:9-11) That is also why from
the day we heard of it, we have never stopped praying for you (Isaiah 55:8, 9) For my thoughts are not your thoughts, And
and asking that you may be filled with the accurate your ways are not my ways, declares Jehovah. 9 For as the
knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual heavens are higher than the earth, So my ways are higher than
comprehension, 10 so as to walk worthily of Jehovah in order your ways And my thoughts than your thoughts.
to please him fully as you go on bearing fruit in every good
work and increasing in the accurate knowledge of God; 11 and
may you be strengthened with all power according to his
glorious might so that you may endure fully with patience QUESTION OUTLINE
and joy, Jehovah A Trustworthy God
*** nwt p. 1703 Glossary ***
(Matthew 5:10) Happy are those who have been persecuted
for righteousness sake, since the Kingdom of the heavens Loyal love. Most frequently rendered from the Hebrew
belongs to them. word chesedh, referring to love motivated by commitment,
(1 Peter 4:13, 14) On the contrary, go on rejoicing over the integrity, loyalty, and deep attachment. It is often used in
extent to which you are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ, connection with Gods love for humans, but it is also love
so that you may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the shown between humans.Ex 34:6; Ru 3:10.
revelation of his glory. 14 If you are being reproached for the
name of Christ, you are happy, because the spirit of glory, *** w04 4/15 p. 14 pars. 10-11 Gods People Must Love
yes, the spirit of God, is resting upon you. Kindness ***
10
(Psalm 34:18) Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; He There is a link between kindness and love. Concerning
saves those who are crushed in spirit. his followers, Jesus said: By this all will know that you are
(1 John 3:19, 20) By this we will know that we originate my disciples, if you have love among yourselves. (John
with the truth, and we will assure our hearts before him 13:35) And concerning this love, Paul said: Love is long-
20
regarding whatever our hearts may condemn us in, because suffering and kind. (1 Corinthians 13:4) Kindness is also
God is greater than our hearts and knows all things. linked with love in the word loving-kindness, often used in
the Scriptures. This is kindness stemming from loyal love.
Page 140 Unit 16 (a) The Hebrew noun rendered loving-kindness includes more
(Psalm 18:superscription-50) To the director. By Jehovahs than tender regard. It is kindness that lovingly attaches itself
servant David, who addressed the words of this song to to an object until its purpose in connection with it is realized.
Jehovah in the day that Jehovah rescued him from the hand of Jehovahs loving-kindness, or loyal love, is displayed in
all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. He said: various ways. For instance, it is seen in his acts of
(Psalm 18:1, 2) I have affection for you, O Jehovah, my deliverance and protection.Psalm 6:4; 40:11; 143:12.
strength. 2 Jehovah is my crag and my stronghold and the 11
Jehovahs loving-kindness draws people to him.
One who rescues me. My God is my rock, in whom I take (Jeremiah 31:3) When Gods faithful servants need
refuge, My shield and my horn of salvation, my secure deliverance or help, they know that his loving-kindness is
refuge. indeed loyal love. It will not fail them. Hence, they can pray
(Romans 10:10) For with the heart one exercises faith for in faith, as did the psalmist who said: As for me, in your
righteousness, but with the mouth one makes public loving-kindness I have trusted; let my heart be joyful in your
declaration for salvation. salvation. (Psalm 13:5) Since Gods love is loyal, his
(Isaiah 25:9) In that day they will say: Look! This is our servants can trust in him completely. They have this
God! We have hoped in him, And he will save us. This is assurance: Jehovah will not forsake his people, nor will he
Jehovah! We have hoped in him. Let us be joyful and rejoice leave his own inheritance.Psalm 94:14.
in the salvation by him.
Page 142 Unit 16 (b)
Page 141 Unit 16 (b)
(Exodus 34:6, 7) Jehovah was passing before him and
196
declaring: Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and Become: Or I Will Prove to Be What I Will Prove
compassionate, slow to anger and abundant in loyal love and to Be. See App. A4.)
truth, 7 showing loyal love to thousands, pardoning error and
transgression and sin, but he will by no means leave the
(Exodus 6:2-8) Then God said to Moses: I am Jehovah.
guilty unpunished, bringing punishment for the error of 3
And I used to appear to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as God
fathers upon sons and upon grandsons, upon the third
Almighty, but with regard to my name Jehovah I did not
generation and upon the fourth generation.
make myself known to them. 4 I also established my covenant
(Deuteronomy 7:7-9) It was not because you were the most with them to give them the land of Canaan, the land in which
numerous of all the peoples that Jehovah showed affection for they lived as foreigners. 5 Now I myself have heard the
you and chose you, for you were the smallest of all the groaning of the people of Israel, whom the Egyptians are
peoples. 8 Rather, it was because of Jehovahs love for you enslaving, and I remember my covenant. 6 Therefore, say to
and because he kept the oath that he had sworn to your the Israelites: I am Jehovah, and I will bring you out from
forefathers that Jehovah brought you out with a mighty hand, under the burdens of the Egyptians and rescue you from their
to redeem you from the house of slavery, from the power of slavery, and I will reclaim you with an outstretched arm and
Pharaoh king of Egypt. 9 You well know that Jehovah your with great judgments. 7 And I will take you in as my people,
God is the true God, the faithful God, keeping his covenant and I will be your God, and you will certainly know that I am
and loyal love to a thousand generations of those who love Jehovah your God who is bringing you out from under the
him and keep his commandments. burdens of Egypt. 8 And I will bring you into the land that I
(Deuteronomy 7:12) If you continue listening to these swore with an oath to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and
judicial decisions and you observe them and carry them out, I will give it to you as something to possess. I am Jehovah.
Jehovah your God will keep the covenant and the loyal love (1 Kings 8:56) Praised be Jehovah, who has given a resting-
about which he swore to your forefathers. place to his people Israel, just as he promised. Not one word
(Psalm 136:1-26) Give thanks to Jehovah, for he is good; His of all his good promise that he made through Moses his
loyal love endures forever. 2 Give thanks to the God of gods, servant has failed.
For his loyal love endures forever. 3 Give thanks to the Lord (Psalm 31:5) Into your hand I entrust my spirit. You have
of lords, For his loyal love endures forever. 4 He alone does redeemed me, O Jehovah, the God of truth.
great wonders, For his loyal love endures forever. 5 He
(Hebrews 6:18) in order that through two unchangeable
skillfully made the heavens, For his loyal love endures
things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have
forever. 6 He spread out the earth over the waters, For his
fled to the refuge may have strong encouragement to take
loyal love endures forever. 7 He made the great lights, For his
firm hold of the hope set before us.
loyal love endures forever, 8 The sun to rule over the day, For
his loyal love endures forever, 9 The moon and the stars to (Isaiah 53:3-7) He was despised and was avoided by men, A
rule over the night, For his loyal love endures forever. 10 He man who was meant for pains and was familiar with sickness.
struck down Egypts firstborn, For his loyal love endures It was as if his face were hidden from us. He was despised,
forever. 11 He brought Israel out from their midst, For his and we held him as of no account. 4 Truly he himself carried
loyal love endures forever, 12 With a mighty hand and an our sicknesses, And he bore our pains. But we considered him
outstretched arm, For his loyal love endures forever. 13 He as plagued, stricken by God and afflicted. 5 But he was
split the Red Sea in two, For his loyal love endures forever. pierced for our transgression; He was crushed for our errors.
14
He caused Israel to pass through the middle of it, For his He bore the punishment for our peace, And because of his
loyal love endures forever. 15 He shook off Pharaoh and his wounds we were healed. 6 Like sheep we have all wandered
army into the Red Sea, For his loyal love endures forever. about, Each has turned his own way, And Jehovah has caused
16
He led his people through the wilderness, For his loyal love the error of us all to meet up with him. 7 He was oppressed
endures forever. 17 He struck down great kings, For his loyal and he let himself be afflicted, But he would not open his
love endures forever. 18 He killed mighty kings, For his loyal mouth. He was brought like a sheep to the slaughter, Like a
love endures forever, 19 Sihon the king of the Amorites, For ewe that is silent before its shearers, And he would not open
his loyal love endures forever, 20 And Og the king of Bashan, his mouth.
For his loyal love endures forever. 21 He gave their land as an (Isaiah 53:10-12) But it was Jehovahs will to crush him, and
inheritance, For his loyal love endures forever, 22 An he let him become sick. If you will present his life as a guilt
inheritance to Israel his servant, For his loyal love endures offering, He will see his offspring, he will prolong his days,
forever. 23 He remembered us when we were low, For his And through him the delight of Jehovah will have success.
loyal love endures forever. 24 He kept rescuing us from our 11
Because of his anguish, he will see and be satisfied. By
adversaries, For his loyal love endures forever. 25 He gives means of his knowledge the righteous one, my servant, Will
food to every living thing, For his loyal love endures forever. bring a righteous standing to many people, And their errors
26
Give thanks to the God of the heavens, For his loyal love he will bear. 12 For that reason I will assign him a portion
endures forever. among the many, And he will apportion the spoil with the
(Exodus 3:14) So God said to Moses: I Will Become What I mighty, Because he poured out his life even to death And was
Choose to Become. And he added: This is what you are to counted among the transgressors; He carried the sin of many
say to the Israelites, I Will Become has sent me to you. people, And he interceded for the transgressors.
(footnote Footnote Choose: Or Want. (John 8:29) And the One who sent me is with me; he did not
197
abandon me to myself, because I always do the things Unit 16 (b)
pleasing to him.
(Acts 8:32-35) Now this was the passage of Scripture that he *** w13 8/15 p. 25 pars. 8-10 Consider What Kind of
was reading: Like a sheep he was brought to the slaughter, Person You Ought to Be ***
and like a lamb that is silent before its shearer, so he does not 8
Satan used the same tactic when he tried to tempt Jesus
open his mouth. 33 During his humiliation, justice was taken in the wilderness. After Jesus had fasted for 40 days and 40
away from him. Who will tell the details of his generation? nights, Satan attempted to appeal to Jesus desire for food. If
Because his life is taken away from the earth. 34 The eunuch you are a son of God, said Satan, tell this stone to become a
then said to Philip: I beg you, about whom does the prophet loaf of bread. (Luke 4:1-3) Jesus had two options: He could
say this? About himself or about some other man? 35 Philip choose not to use his miraculous power to satisfy the need for
began to speak, and starting with this scripture, he declared to food, or he could choose to use it. Jesus knew that he should
him the good news about Jesus. not use such power for selfish purposes. Though he was
(Matthew 26:52, 53) Then Jesus said to him: Return your hungry, satisfying the hunger did not take priority over
sword to its place, for all those who take up the sword will maintaining his relationship with Jehovah. It is written,
perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot appeal to Jesus replied, Man must not live by bread alone but by
my Father to supply me at this moment more than 12 legions everything proceeding from Jehovahs mouth.Luke 4:4,
of angels? ftn.
(Zephaniah 3:12, 13) I will allow a humble and lowly people THE DESIRE OF THE EYES
to remain in your midst, And they will take refuge in the
9
name of Jehovah. 13 Those remaining of Israel will practice John also mentioned the desire of the eyes as an
no unrighteousness; They will not speak a lie, nor will a enticement. The expression suggests that one can begin
deceitful tongue be found in their mouths; They will feed and desiring something by simply looking at it. In the case of
lie down, and no one will make them afraid. Eve, Satan appealed to this desire, saying: Your eyes are
bound to be opened. The more Eve looked at it, the more the
forbidden fruit became attractive to her. Eve saw that the tree
Jesus Trusted in His Father was something to be longed for to the eyes.
(Luke 4:1-13) Then Jesus, full of holy spirit, turned away 10
from the Jordan, and he was led about by the spirit in the What about in Jesus case? Satan showed [Jesus] all
wilderness 2 for 40 days, being tempted by the Devil. And he the kingdoms of the inhabited earth in an instant of time; and
ate nothing in those days, so when they had ended, he felt the Devil said to him: I will give you all this authority and
hungry. 3 At this the Devil said to him: If you are a son of the glory of them. (Luke 4:5, 6) Jesus would not with his
God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread. 4 But Jesus literal eyes see all the kingdoms in an instant, but Satan must
answered him: It is written, Man must not live on bread have felt that the glory of these kingdoms, as presented in a
alone. 5 So he brought him up and showed him all the vision, would hold some attraction for Jesus. Shamelessly,
kingdoms of the inhabited earth in an instant of time. 6 Then Satan suggested: If you do an act of worship before me, it
the Devil said to him: I will give you all this authority and will all be yours. (Luke 4:7) In no way did Jesus want to be
their glory, because it has been handed over to me, and I give the kind of person Satan wanted him to be. His response was
it to whomever I wish. 7 If you, therefore, do an act of immediate. He said: It is written, It is Jehovah your God
worship before me, it will all be yours. 8 In reply Jesus said you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render
to him: It is written, It is Jehovah your God you must sacred service.Luke 4:8.
worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred
service. 9 He then led him into Jerusalem and stationed him (Psalm 1:1-3) Happy is the man who does not walk
on the battlement of the temple and said to him: If you are a according to the advice of the wicked And does not stand on
son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is the path of sinners And does not sit in the seat of scoffers.
2
written, He will give his angels a command concerning you, But his delight is in the law of Jehovah, And he reads His
to preserve you, 11 and, They will carry you on their hands, law in an undertone day and night. 3 He will be like a tree
so that you may not strike your foot against a stone. 12 In planted by streams of water, A tree that produces fruit in its
answer Jesus said to him: It is said, You must not put season, The foliage of which does not wither. And everything
Jehovah your God to the test. 13 So the Devil, having he does will succeed.
finished all the temptation, departed from him until another (Jeremiah 17:5-7) This is what Jehovah says: Cursed is the
convenient time. man who puts his trust in mere humans, Who relies on human
(1 John 2:15, 16) Do not love either the world or the things power, And whose heart turns away from Jehovah. 6 He will
in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father become like a solitary tree in the desert. He will not see when
is not in him; 16 because everything in the worldthe desire good comes, But he will reside in parched places in the
of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display wilderness, In a salt land where no one can live. 7 Blessed is
of ones means of lifedoes not originate with the Father, the man who puts his trust in Jehovah, Whose confidence is
but originates with the world. in Jehovah.
(Matthew 4:4) But he answered: It is written: Man must
Page 143 live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from

198
Jehovahs mouth.
(Luke 4:12) In answer Jesus said to him: It is said, You Page 144 Unit 16 (b)
must not put Jehovah your God to the test.
(Psalm 119:42) Then I will reply to the one taunting me, For (1 Kings 17:15, 16) So she went and did as Elijah said, and
I put my trust in your word. she together with him and her household ate for many days.
16
The large jar of flour did not run out, and the small jar of
oil did not run dry, according to Jehovahs word that he had
Imitate a Widows Trust spoken through Elijah.
(1 Kings 17:8-24) The word of Jehovah then came to him: (Psalm 22:4, 5) In you our fathers put their trust; They
9
Rise up, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and trusted, and you kept rescuing them. 5 To you they cried out,
stay there. Look! I will command a widow there to supply and they were saved; They trusted in you, and they were not
you with food. 10 So he rose up and went to Zarephath. disappointed.
When he came to the entrance of the city, there was a widow (1 Kings 17:17-24) After these things, the son of the woman
gathering pieces of wood. So he called to her and said: who owned the house fell sick, and his sickness became so
Please, bring me a little water in a cup so that I may drink. severe that he stopped breathing. 18 At this she said to Elijah:
11
As she went to get it, he called to her: Please, bring me a What do you have against me, O man of the true God? Have
piece of bread in your hand. 12 At this she said: As surely as you come to remind me of my guilt and to put my son to
Jehovah your God is living, I have no bread, only a handful death? 19 But he said to her: Give me your son. Then he
of flour in the large jar and a little oil in the small jar. Now I took him from her arms and carried him up to the roof
am gathering a few pieces of wood, and I will go in and make chamber, where he was staying, and he laid him on his own
something for me and my son. After we have eaten, we will bed. 20 He called out to Jehovah: O Jehovah my God, are
die. 13 Then Elijah said to her: Do not be afraid. Go in and you also bringing harm to the widow with whom I am staying
do as you said. But first make me a small round loaf of bread by putting her son to death? 21 Then he stretched himself out
with what is there, and bring it out to me. Then you can make over the child three times and called out to Jehovah: O
something afterward for you and your son. 14 For this is what Jehovah my God, please, let this childs life come back into
Jehovah the God of Israel says: The large jar of flour will not him. 22 Jehovah listened to Elijahs request, and the life of
run out, and the small jar of oil will not run dry until the day the child came back into him, and he revived. 23 Elijah took
Jehovah makes it rain on the surface of the ground. 15 So the child and brought him down from the roof chamber into
she went and did as Elijah said, and she together with him the house and gave him to his mother; and Elijah said: See,
and her household ate for many days. 16 The large jar of flour your son is alive. 24 At that the woman said to Elijah: Now
did not run out, and the small jar of oil did not run dry, I know that you truly are a man of God and that Jehovahs
according to Jehovahs word that he had spoken through Eli word in your mouth is truth.
jah. 17 After these things, the son of the woman who owned
the house fell sick, and his sickness became so severe that he (2 Corinthians 1:3) Praised be the God and Father of our
stopped breathing. 18 At this she said to Elijah: What do Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God
you have against me, O man of the true God? Have you come of all comfort,
to remind me of my guilt and to put my son to death? 19 But
he said to her: Give me your son. Then he took him from Trust Jehovahs Promises
her arms and carried him up to the roof chamber, where he (Habakkuk 3:18) Yet, as for me, I will exult in Jehovah; I
was staying, and he laid him on his own bed. 20 He called out will be joyful in the God of my salvation.
to Jehovah: O Jehovah my God, are you also bringing harm
to the widow with whom I am staying by putting her son to (Genesis 7:1-5) After that Jehovah said to Noah: Go into the
death? 21 Then he stretched himself out over the child three ark, you and all your household, because you are the one I
times and called out to Jehovah: O Jehovah my God, please, have found to be righteous before me among this generation.
2
let this childs life come back into him. 22 Jehovah listened to You must take with you every kind of clean animal by
Elijahs request, and the life of the child came back into him, sevens, the male and its mate; and of every animal that is not
and he revived. 23 Elijah took the child and brought him clean just two, the male and its mate; 3 also of the flying
down from the roof chamber into the house and gave him to creatures of the sky by sevens, male and female, to preserve
his mother; and Elijah said: See, your son is alive. 24 At their offspring alive over all the earth. 4 For in just seven
that the woman said to Elijah: Now I know that you truly days, I will make it rain on the earth for 40 days and 40
are a man of God and that Jehovahs word in your mouth is nights, and I will wipe from the surface of the ground every
truth. living thing that I have made. 5 Then Noah did everything
that Jehovah had commanded him.
(1 Kings 17:13, 14) Then Elijah said to her: Do not be
afraid. Go in and do as you said. But first make me a small (Genesis 7:11) In the 600th year of Noahs life, in the second
round loaf of bread with what is there, and bring it out to me. month, on the 17th day of the month, on that day all the
Then you can make something afterward for you and your springs of the vast watery deep burst open and the floodgates
son. 14 For this is what Jehovah the God of Israel says: The of the heavens were opened.
large jar of flour will not run out, and the small jar of oil will (Exodus 14:1-4) Jehovah now said to Moses: 2 Tell the
not run dry until the day Jehovah makes it rain on the surface Israelites that they should turn back and encamp before
of the ground. Pihahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, within view of Ba
199
al-zephon. You are to encamp facing it by the sea. 3 Then (Exodus 16:13-15) So that evening quail came and covered
Pharaoh will say about the Israelites, They are wandering in the camp, and in the morning a layer of dew was all around
confusion in the land. The wilderness has closed in on them. the camp. 14 When the layer of dew evaporated, there was a
4
I will allow Pharaohs heart to become obstinate, and he fine, flaky substance on the surface of the wilderness, as fine
will chase after them, and I will glorify myself by means of as frost on the ground. 15 When the Israelites saw it, they
Pharaoh and all his army; and the Egyptians will certainly began to say to one another, What is it? for they did not
know that I am Jehovah. So that is what they did. know what it was. Moses said to them: It is the bread that
(2 Kings 19:32-35) Therefore this is what Jehovah says Jehovah has given you for food.
about the king of Assyria: He will not come into this city (Deuteronomy 8:3, 4) So he humbled you and let you go
Or shoot an arrow there Or confront it with a shield Or cast hungry and fed you with the manna, which neither you had
up a siege rampart against it. 33 By the way he came he will known nor your fathers had known, in order to make you
return; He will not come into this city, declares Jehovah. know that man does not live by bread alone but man lives by
34
I will defend this city and save it for my own sake And for every expression from Jehovahs mouth. 4 The clothing you
the sake of my servant David. 35 On that very night the wore did not wear out, nor did your feet become swollen
angel of Jehovah went out and struck down 185,000 men in these 40 years.
the camp of the Assyrians. When people rose up early in the (Joshua 11:23) So Joshua took control of all the land, just as
morning, they saw all the dead bodies. Jehovah had promised Moses, and then Joshua gave it as an
(Matthew 24:15-18) Therefore, when you catch sight of the inheritance to Israel by their shares to be divided among their
disgusting thing that causes desolation, as spoken about by tribes. And the land had rest from war.
Daniel the prophet, standing in a holy place (let the reader use
discernment), 16 then let those in Judea begin fleeing to the Page 145 Unit 16 (b)
mountains. 17 Let the man on the housetop not come down to
take the goods out of his house, 18 and let the man in the field Blessings Overtake Those Who Trust in Jehovah
not return to pick up his outer garment. (Genesis 22:18) And by means of your offspring all nations
(Matthew 24:22) In fact, unless those days were cut short, no of the earth will obtain a blessing for themselves because you
flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones have listened to my voice.
those days will be cut short. (Galatians 3:16) Now the promises were spoken to Abraham
(Joshua 23:14) Now look! I am about to die, and you well and to his offspring. It does not say, and to your
know with all your heart and with all your soul that not one descendants, in the sense of many. Rather, it says, and to
word out of all the good promises that Jehovah your God has your offspring, in the sense of one, who is Christ.
spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you. (Galatians 3:29) Moreover, if you belong to Christ, you are
Not one word of them has failed. really Abrahams offspring, heirs with reference to a promise.
(Genesis 12:7) Jehovah then appeared to Abram and said: (Revelation 7:4) And I heard the number of those who were
To your offspring I am going to give this land. So he built sealed, 144,000, sealed out of every tribe of the sons of Israel:
an altar there to Jehovah, who had appeared to him. (Revelation 14:1) Then I saw, and look! the Lamb standing
(Exodus 3:8) I will go down to rescue them out of the hand on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who have his name
of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a and the name of his Father written on their foreheads.
land good and spacious, a land flowing with milk and honey, (Deuteronomy 28:1, 2) And if you will without fail listen to
the territory of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the voice of Jehovah your God by being careful to do all his
the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. commandments that I am commanding you today, Jehovah
(Exodus 12:29-32) Then at midnight, Jehovah struck down your God will certainly put you high above all other nations
every firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of of the earth. 2 All these blessings will come upon you and
Pharaoh who was sitting on his throne to the firstborn of the overtake you, because you keep listening to the voice of
captive who was in the prison, and every firstborn of the Jehovah your God:
animals. 30 Pharaoh got up that night along with all his (Psalm 91:1, 2) Anyone dwelling in the secret place of the
servants and all the other Egyptians, and there was a great Most High Will lodge under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I
outcry among the Egyptians, because there was not a house will say to Jehovah: You are my refuge and my stronghold,
where someone was not dead. 31 At once he called Moses and My God in whom I trust.
Aaron by night and said: Get up, get out from among my (Isaiah 55:8-11) For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
people, both you and the other Israelites. Go and serve And your ways are not my ways, declares Jehovah. 9 For
Jehovah, just as you have said. 32 Take also your flocks and as the heavens are higher than the earth, So my ways are
your herds and go, just as you have said. But you must also higher than your ways And my thoughts than your thoughts.
bless me. 10
For just as the rain and the snow pour down from heaven
(Exodus 16:4) Then Jehovah said to Moses: Here I am And do not return there until they saturate the earth, making it
raining down bread for you from the heavens, and each of the produce and sprout, Giving seed to the sower and bread to the
people should go out to gather his amount day by day, so that eater, 11 So my word that goes out of my mouth will be. It will
I may put them to the test to see whether they will walk in my not return to me without results, But it will certainly
law or not. accomplish whatever is my delight, And it will have sure
200
success in what I send it to do. you make with this composition. You are to regard it as
something holy to Jehovah. 38 Whoever makes any like it to
Page 146 Unit 17 (a) enjoy its smell must be cut off from his people.
(Revelation 5:8) When he took the scroll, the four living
Persevere in Prayer creatures and the 24 elders fell down before the Lamb, and
each one had a harp and golden bowls that were full of
OPENING DISCUSSION incense. (The incense means the prayers of the holy ones.)
(Psalm 65:2) O Hearer of prayer, to you people of all sorts (Psalm 92:1, 2) It is good to give thanks to Jehovah And to
will come. sing praises to your name, O Most High, 2 To declare your
(1 Kings 18:36-38) About the time when the evening grain loyal love in the morning And your faithfulness during the
offering is presented, Elijah the prophet stepped forward and nights,
said: O Jehovah, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, (Psalm 119:147) I have been awake before dawn to cry for
today let it be known that you are God in Israel and that I am help, For your words are my hope.
your servant and that it is by your word that I have done all
these things. 37 Answer me, O Jehovah! Answer me so that (Psalm 119:164) Seven times a day I praise you Because of
this people may know that you, Jehovah, are the true God and your righteous judgments.
that you are turning their hearts back to you. 38 At that the (Ephesians 6:18) while with every form of prayer and
fire of Jehovah fell from above and consumed the burnt supplication you carry on prayer on every occasion in spirit.
offering, the pieces of wood, the stones, and the dust, and it And to that end stay awake, constantly making supplication
licked up the water from the trench. in behalf of all the holy ones.
(Acts 12:5-11) So Peter was being kept in the prison, but the
congregation was intensely praying to God for him. 6 When We Can Learn From Notable Prayers in the Bible
Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was
sleeping bound with two chains between two soldiers, and (Hebrews 5:7) During his life on earth, Christ offered up
guards in front of the door were keeping watch over the supplications and also petitions, with strong outcries and
prison. 7 But look! Jehovahs angel was standing there, and a tears, to the One who was able to save him out of death, and
light shone in the prison cell. Hitting Peter on the side, he he was favorably heard for his godly fear.
woke him, saying: Get up quickly! And the chains fell off (Matthew 26:39) And going a little way forward, he fell
his hands. 8 The angel said to him: Get dressed and put on facedown, praying: My Father, if it is possible, let this cup
your sandals. He did so. Finally he said to him: Put your pass away from me. Yet, not as I will, but as you will.
outer garment on, and keep following me. 9 And he went out (Matthew 26:42) Again, a second time, he went off and
and kept following him, but he did not know that what was prayed: My Father, if it is not possible for this to pass away
happening through the angel was real. In fact, he thought he unless I drink it, let your will take place.
was seeing a vision. 10 Going past the first sentinel guard and (Matthew 26:44) So leaving them, he again went off and
the second, they reached the iron gate leading into the city, prayed for a third time, saying once more the same thing.
and this opened to them by itself. After they went out, they
made their way down one street, and immediately the angel (Luke 6:12, 13) On one of those days he went out to the
departed from him. 11 And Peter, realizing what was mountain to pray, and he spent the whole night in prayer to
happening, said: Now I know for sure that Jehovah sent his God. 13 And when it became day, he called his disciples to
angel and rescued me from Herods hand and from him and chose from among them 12, whom he also named
everything that the Jews were expecting to happen. apostles:
(Hebrews 5:7) During his life on earth, Christ offered up (Philippians 4:6) Do not be anxious over anything, but in
supplications and also petitions, with strong outcries and everything by prayer and supplication along with
tears, to the One who was able to save him out of death, and thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God;
he was favorably heard for his godly fear.
*** w13 11/15 p. 4 pars. 6-7 Be Vigilant With a View to
Prayers ***
Page 147 Unit 17 (a) 6
Supplication is earnest prayer coupled with intense
feeling. Concerning what may we supplicate Jehovah? We
(Psalm 141:2) May my prayer be as incense prepared before can certainly do so when we are being persecuted or if we are
you, My uplifted hands like the evening grain offering. facing a life-threatening illness. At such times, our prayers for
(Exodus 30:34-38) Then Jehovah said to Moses: Take equal Gods help understandably become supplications. But are
portions of these perfumes: stacte drops, onycha, perfumed these the only times when we can supplicate Jehovah?
galbanum, and pure frankincense. 35 Make it into an incense; 7
Consider Jesus model prayer, and note what he said
the spice mixture should be skillfully blended, salted, pure, about Gods name, His Kingdom, and His will. (Read
and holy. 36 You are to pound some of it into fine powder and Matthew 6:9, 10.) This world is drenched in wickedness, and
put some of it before the Testimony in the tent of meeting, human governments are failing to care for even the basic
where I will present myself to you. It should be most holy to needs of their citizens. Surely, then, we should pray for our
you. 37 You must not make for your own use the incense that
201
heavenly Fathers name to be sanctified and for his Kingdom do not take your holy spirit away from me. 12 Restore to me
to rid the earth of Satans rule. This is also a time to the joy of your salvation; Stir within me a willingness to obey
supplicate Jehovah to have his will done on earth as it is in you. 13 I will teach transgressors your ways, So that sinners
heaven. Let us therefore remain vigilant, readily making use will return to you. 14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the
of all forms of prayer. God of my salvation, So that my tongue may joyfully declare
(Matthew 7:7) Keep on asking, and it will be given you; your righteousness. 15 O Jehovah, open my lips, So that my
keep on seeking, and you will find; keep on knocking, and it mouth may declare your praise. 16 For you do not want a
will be opened to you; sacrificeotherwise I would give it; You do not find delight
(Philippians 4:13) For all things I have the strength through in a whole burnt offering. 17 The sacrifices pleasing to God
the one who gives me power. are a broken spirit; A heart broken and crushed, O God, you
will not reject. 18 In your goodwill do what is good for Zion;
(1 Samuel 1:2) He had two wives; one was named Hannah,
Build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then you will take delight
and the other was named Peninnah. Peninnah had children,
in the sacrifices of righteousness, The burnt sacrifices and the
but Hannah had no children.
whole offerings; Then bulls will be offered up on your altar.
(1 Samuel 1:5-7) but to Hannah he gave a special portion,
because Hannah was the one he loved; but Jehovah had not *** w95 3/15 pp. 4-5 Prayers in the Bible Are Worth a
given her children. 6 Moreover, her rival wife taunted her Closer Look ***
relentlessly in order to upset her because Jehovah had not Prayers in the Bible Are Worth a Closer Look
given her children. 7 That is what she would do year after
year; whenever Hannah went up to the house of Jehovah, her AN ANXIOUS woman, a king, and Gods own Son said
rival would taunt her so much that she would weep and not the prayers we will take a close look at now. Each prayer was
eat. prompted by a different set of circumstances. Yet, such
(Deuteronomy 32:4) The Rock, perfect is his activity, For all situations could affect us today. What can we learn from these
his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness who is never examples?
unjust; Righteous and upright is he.
Look Upon the Affliction of Your Slave Girl
(Psalm 119:165) Abundant peace belongs to those who love
your law; Nothing can make them stumble. Are you struggling with a persistent problem? Or have
you become weighed down with anxiety? Then you have
(1 Samuel 1:9, 10) Then Hannah got up after they had
much in common with Hannah before she gave birth to her
finished eating and drinking in Shiloh. At the time, Eli the
first child, Samuel. She was childless and was being taunted
priest was sitting on the seat by the doorpost of the temple of
by another woman. In fact, Hannahs situation so vexed and
Jehovah. 10 Hannah was extremely bitter, and she began to
concerned her that she would not eat. (1 Samuel 1:2-8,
pray to Jehovah and to weep uncontrollably.
15, 16) She appealed to Jehovah and offered the following
supplication:
Page 148 Unit 17 (a)
O Jehovah of armies, if you will without fail look upon
(1 Samuel 1:11) And she made this vow: O Jehovah of the affliction of your slave girl and actually remember me,
armies, if you look upon the affliction of your servant and and you will not forget your slave girl and actually give to
remember me and you do not forget your servant and give to your slave girl a male offspring, I will give him to Jehovah all
your servant a male child, I will give him to Jehovah all the the days of his life, and no razor will come upon his head.
days of his life, and no razor will touch his head. 1 Samuel 1:11.
(Psalm 51:superscription-19) To the director. A melody of Notice that Hannah did not speak in generalities. She
David, when Nathan the prophet came in to him after David addressed Jehovah with a specific request (for a male
had relations with Bath-sheba. 51 Show me favor, O God, offspring) and coupled this with a definite resolve (to put him
according to your loyal love. Blot out my transgressions at Gods disposal). What does this tell us?
according to your great mercy. 2 Thoroughly wash me from
my error, And cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I am well-aware When in adversity, be specific in prayer. Regardless of
of my transgressions, And my sin is always before me. what your problem iswhether it is your domestic situation,
4
Against youyou above allI have sinned; What is bad in loneliness, or ill healthpray to Jehovah about it. Describe to
your eyes I have done. So that you might prove righteous him the exact nature of your difficulty and how you feel.
when you speak And be right in your judgment. 5 Look! I Every evening I entrust all my troubles to Jehovah, says a
was born guilty of error, And my mother conceived me in sin. widow named Louise. Sometimes there are quite a few, but I
6
Look! You find pleasure in truth in the inner person; Teach clearly mention each one.
my innermost self true wisdom. 7 Purify me from my sin
with hyssop, so that I will be clean; Wash me, so that I will be (Psalm 62:8) Trust in him at all times, O people. Pour out
whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear sounds of joy and rejoicing, your hearts before him. God is a refuge for us. (Selah)
So that the bones you crushed will rejoice. 9 Turn your face (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Pray constantly.
away from my sins, And wipe away all my errors. 10 Create in (1 Peter 5:7) while you throw all your anxiety on him,
me a pure heart, O God, And put within me a new spirit, a because he cares for you.
steadfast one. 11 Do not cast me out from your presence; And
(1 Samuel 1:18) To this she said: Let your servant find favor
202
in your eyes. And the woman went on her way and ate, and me know your ways, so that I may know you and continue to
her face was no longer downcast. find favor in your eyes. Consider, too, that this nation is your
(Psalm 55:22) Throw your burden on Jehovah, And he will people. 14 So he said: I myself will go with you, and I will
sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall. give you rest. 15 Then Moses said to him: If you yourself
are not going along, do not lead us up from here. 16 How will
(1 Samuel 2:1-10) Then Hannah said in prayer: My heart
it be known that I have found favor in your eyes, I and your
rejoices in Jehovah; My horn is exalted by Jehovah. My
people? Is it not by your going along with us, so that I and
mouth is opened wide against my enemies, For I rejoice in
your people will be distinguished from every other people on
your acts of salvation. 2 There is no one holy like Jehovah,
the face of the earth? 17 Jehovah went on to say to Moses: I
There is no one but you, And there is no rock like our God.
3 will also do this thing that you request, because you have
Do not keep speaking with haughtiness; Let nothing
found favor in my eyes and I know you by name.
arrogant come from your mouth, For Jehovah is a God of
knowledge, And by him deeds are rightly evaluated. 4 The (1 Kings 18:36, 37) About the time when the evening grain
bows of mighty men are shattered, But those who are offering is presented, Elijah the prophet stepped forward and
stumbling are given strength. 5 The well-fed must hire said: O Jehovah, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel,
themselves out for bread, But the hungry hunger no more. today let it be known that you are God in Israel and that I am
The barren has given birth to seven, But she who had many your servant and that it is by your word that I have done all
sons has become desolate. 6 Jehovah kills, and he preserves these things. 37 Answer me, O Jehovah! Answer me so that
life; He brings down to the Grave, and he raises up. this people may know that you, Jehovah, are the true God and
7
Jehovah impoverishes, and he enriches; He abases, and he that you are turning their hearts back to you.
exalts. 8 He raises the lowly one from the dust; He lifts up the (Jeremiah 20:7-12) You have fooled me, O Jehovah, and I
poor from the ash heap, To make them sit with princes, was fooled. You used your strength against me, and you
Giving them a seat of honor. To Jehovah belong earths prevailed. I have become a laughingstock all day long;
supports, And he places the productive land upon them. 9 He Everyone ridicules me. 8 For whenever I speak, I must cry
guards the steps of his loyal ones, But the wicked will be out and proclaim, Violence and destruction! For me the
silenced in darkness, For not by power does a man prevail. word of Jehovah has been the cause of insults and jeering all
10
Jehovah will shatter those fighting against him; He will day long. 9 So I said: I am not going to make mention of
thunder against them from the heavens. Jehovah will judge to him, And I will speak no more in his name. But in my heart
the ends of the earth, He will give power to his king And it became like a burning fire shut up in my bones, And I was
exalt the horn of his anointed one. tired of holding it in; I could no longer endure it. 10 For I
heard many evil rumors; Terror surrounded me. Denounce
Page 149 Unit 17 (a) him; let us denounce him! Every man wishing me peace was
watching for my downfall: Perhaps he will make a foolish
(Genesis 24:12-14) Then he said: Jehovah the God of my mistake, And we can prevail and take our revenge against
master Abraham, please grant me success this day, and show him. 11 But Jehovah was with me like a fearsome warrior.
your loyal love to my master Abraham. 13 Here I am standing That is why those persecuting me will stumble and will not
at a spring of water, and the daughters of the men of the city prevail. They will be put to great shame, for they will not
are coming out to draw water. 14 May it happen that the young succeed. Their everlasting humiliation will not be forgotten.
12
woman to whom I say, Please let down your water jar so that But you, O Jehovah of armies, are examining the righteous
I may take a drink, and who replies, Take a drink, and I will one; You see the innermost thoughts and the heart. Let me see
also water your camels, let this be the one you choose for your vengeance on them, For to you I have committed my
your servant Isaac; and by this let me know that you have legal case.
shown your loyal love to my master. (1 Kings 8:38, 39) whatever prayer, whatever request for
(Genesis 32:9-12) After that Jacob said: O God of my father favor may be made by any man or by all your people Israel
Abraham and God of my father Isaac, O Jehovah, you who (for each one knows the plague of his own heart) when they
are saying to me, Return to your land and to your relatives, spread out their hands toward this house, 39 then may you
and I will deal well with you, 10 I am unworthy of all the hear from the heavens, your dwelling place, and may you
loyal love and of all the faithfulness that you have shown forgive and take action; and reward each one according to all
toward your servant, for with only my staff I crossed this his ways, for you know his heart (you alone truly know every
Jordan and now I have become two camps. 11 Save me, I pray human heart),
you, from the hand of my brother Esau, for I am afraid of (Acts 4:24-31) On hearing this, they raised their voices with
him that he may come and attack me, as well as the mothers one accord to God and said: Sovereign Lord, you are the
and their children. 12 And you have said: I will certainly deal One who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all
well with you, and I will make your offspring like the grains the things in them, 25 and who said through holy spirit by the
of sand of the sea, which are too numerous to count. mouth of our forefather David, your servant: Why did
(Exodus 33:12-17) Now Moses said to Jehovah: See, you nations become agitated and peoples meditate on empty
are saying to me, Lead this people up, but you have not let things? 26 The kings of the earth took their stand and the
me know whom you will send with me. Moreover, you have rulers gathered together as one against Jehovah and against
said, I know you by name, and you have also found favor in his anointed one. 27 For truly both Herod and Pontius Pilate
my eyes. 13 Please, if I have found favor in your eyes, make with men of the nations and with peoples of Israel were
203
gathered together in this city against your holy servant Jesus, enjoy the warmth of supportive spiritual fathers, mothers,
whom you anointed, 28 to do what your hand and counsel had brothers, and sisters of like faith.Mark 10:29, 30.
determined beforehand to occur. 29 And now, Jehovah, give
attention to their threats, and grant to your slaves to keep Work in Harmony With Your Prayers
speaking your word with all boldness, 30 while you stretch out
your hand for healing and while signs and wonders occur (1 Samuel 19:11, 12) Saul later sent messengers to Davids
through the name of your holy servant Jesus. 31 And when house to watch it and to kill him in the morning, but Davids
they had made supplication, the place where they were wife Michal told him: If you do not escape tonight,
gathered together was shaken, and they were one and all tomorrow you will be a dead man. 12 Immediately Michal
filled with the holy spirit and were speaking the word of God let David down through the window, so that he could run
with boldness. away and escape.
(Psalm 59:1, 2) Rescue me from my enemies, O my God;
*** w11 2/15 p. 19 Do You Really Appreciate Your Protect me from those rising up against me. 2 Rescue me
Blessings? *** from those who act wickedly, And save me from violent men.
When a young Witness named Paul thought about his
prayers, he realized that he needed to make some Page 150 Unit 17 (a)
improvements. He said, I had fallen into the habit of using
the same expressions repeatedly when I prayed to Jehovah. (Nehemiah 4:9) But we prayed to our God and kept a guard
As Paul did research on the subject in the Watch Tower posted against them day and night.
Publications Index, he learned that there are about 180 (Nehemiah 4:16) From that day forward, half of my men
prayers recorded in the Bible. In these, Jehovahs servants of would do the work and half of them would hold the lances,
the past expressed their innermost feelings. Paul stated: By the shields, the bows, and the coats of mail. And the princes
meditating on such Scriptural examples, I learned to be stood behind the whole house of Judah
specific in my prayers. This has helped me to open my heart (Luke 5:23-26) Which is easier, to say, Your sins are
to Jehovah. Now it is a delight to draw close to him in forgiven, or to say, Get up and walk? 24 But in order for you
prayer. to know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive
Food at the Proper Time sins he said to the paralyzed man: I say to you, Get up,
pick up your stretcher, and go to your home. 25 At that he
Another blessing that Jehovah has bestowed upon us is stood up before them, picked up what he had been lying on,
the great body of Scriptural truth. As we feast on an and went to his home, glorifying God. 26 Then one and all
abundance of rich spiritual food, we have reason to cry out were seized with amazement, and they began to glorify God,
joyfully because of the good condition of the heart. (Isa. and they became filled with awe, saying: We have seen
65:13, 14) However, we must be on guard against allowing wonderful things today!
unwholesome influences to cause us to lose our enthusiasm
for the truth. For example, paying attention to apostate (Luke 17:12-15) And as he was entering a village, ten men
propaganda can becloud our thinking and blind us to the with leprosy met him, but they stood at a distance. 13 And
value of the spiritual food at the proper time made available they raised their voices and said: Jesus, Instructor, have
by Jehovah through the faithful and discreet slave.Matt. mercy on us! 14 When he saw them, he said to them: Go
24:45-47. and show yourselves to the priests. Then as they were going
off, they were cleansed. 15 One of them, when he saw that he
Andr, who had served Jehovah for years, had the bitter was healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice.
experience of being led astray by apostate thinking. He felt (John 17:4) I have glorified you on the earth, having finished
that having a quick look at an apostate Web site would not be the work you have given me to do.
dangerous. He recalls: Initially, I was attracted to the so-
called truths that the apostates spoke of. The more I examined (Matthew 9:37, 38) Then he said to his disciples: Yes, the
what they said, the more I came to think that I was justified in harvest is great, but the workers are few. 38 Therefore, beg the
leaving Jehovahs organization. But later, as I did some Master of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.
research on the apostates arguments against Jehovahs (Matthew 10:1-10) So he summoned his 12 disciples and
Witnesses, I became aware of how crafty the false teachers gave them authority over unclean spirits, in order to expel
were. Information taken out of context was their strong these and to cure every sort of disease and every sort of
evidence against us. Thus, I decided to start reading our infirmity. 2 The names of the 12 apostles are these: First,
publications again and to attend the meetings. Soon I realized Simon, the one called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James
how much I had missed. Happily, Andr returned to the the son of Zebedee and John his brother; 3 Philip and
congregation. Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector;
James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the
The Whole Association of Brothers Cananaean; and Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed him.
5
Our loving, united brotherhood is a blessing from These 12 Jesus sent out, giving them these instructions: Do
Jehovah. (Ps. 133:1) With good reason, the apostle Peter not go off into the road of the nations, and do not enter any
wrote: Have love for the whole association of brothers. Samaritan city; 6 but instead, go continually to the lost
(1 Pet. 2:17) Being part of the Christian brotherhood, we sheep of the house of Israel. 7 As you go, preach, saying: The

204
Kingdom of the heavens has drawn near. 8 Cure the sick, hears us.
raise up the dead, make lepers clean, expel demons. You (Psalm 145:18) Jehovah is near to all those calling on him,
received free, give free. 9 Do not acquire gold or silver or To all who call on him in truth.
copper for your money belts, 10 or a food pouch for the trip, or
two garments, or sandals, or a staff, for the worker deserves Page 151 Unit 17 (b)
his food.
(Luke 10:1-9) After these things the Lord designated 70 Endurance Leads to an Approved Condition
others and sent them out by twos ahead of him into every city
and place where he himself was to go. 2 Then he said to them: OPENING DISCUSSION
Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, (2 Peter 1:5, 6) For this very reason, put forth all earnest
beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his effort to supply to your faith virtue, to your virtue knowledge,
harvest. 3 Go! Look! I am sending you out as lambs in among 6
to your knowledge self-control, to your self-control
wolves. 4 Do not carry a money bag or a food pouch or endurance, to your endurance godly devotion,
sandals, and do not greet anyone along the road. 5 Wherever
you enter into a house, say first: May this house have peace. Page 152 Unit 17 (b)
6
And if a friend of peace is there, your peace will rest upon
him. But if there is not, it will return to you. 7 So stay in that
house, eating and drinking the things they provide, for the QUESTION OUTLINE
worker is worthy of his wages. Do not keep transferring from Learning From Examples of Endurance
house to house. 8 Also, wherever you enter into a city and
(Hebrews 12:1) So, then, because we have such a great cloud
they receive you, eat what is set before you 9 and cure the
of witnesses surrounding us, let us also throw off every
sick ones in it and tell them: The Kingdom of God has come
weight and the sin that easily entangles us, and let us run with
near to you.
endurance the race that is set before us,
(James 1:5) So if any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let
(James 5:10, 11) Brothers, take as a pattern of the suffering
him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and
of evil and the exercising of patience the prophets who spoke
without reproaching, and it will be given him.
in the name of Jehovah. 11 Look! We consider happy those
who have endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job
*** w87 7/15 p. 19 par. 14 Prayers Require Works ***
and have seen the outcome Jehovah gave, that Jehovah is
half brother of Jesus: If any one of you is lacking in very tender in affection and merciful.
wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously (Romans 15:4) For all the things that were written
to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him. beforehand were written for our instruction, so that through
(James 1:5; Matthew 13:55) But does God impart this our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures
wisdom to us by some miracle? No. First of all, we must have we might have hope.
the right attitude, as we read: He will teach the meek ones
(Hebrews 12:3) Indeed, consider closely the one who has
his way. (Psalm 25:9) And how does God teach the meek
endured such hostile speech from sinners against their own
ones? By means of his Word. Again, we must put forth an
interests, so that you may not get tired and give up.
effort to understand it and apply it, as indicated at Proverbs
2:1-6: My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure (Hebrews 5:7-9) During his life on earth, Christ offered up
up my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay supplications and also petitions, with strong outcries and
attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your tears, to the One who was able to save him out of death, and
heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for he was favorably heard for his godly fear. 8 Although he was
understanding itself and you give forth your voice for a son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered.
9
discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, . . . And after he had been made perfect, he became responsible
in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you for everlasting salvation to all those obeying him,
will find the very knowledge of God. For Jehovah himself (Romans 5:19) For just as through the disobedience of the
gives wisdom. one man many were made sinners, so also through the
obedience of the one person many will be made righteous.
(Psalm 86:7) I call on you in the day of my distress, For you (Job 42:2) Now I know that you are able to do all things
will answer me. And that nothing you have in mind to do is impossible for
(Hebrews 11:6) Moreover, without faith it is impossible to you.
please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe (Job 42:12) So Jehovah blessed the last part of Jobs life
that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly more than the beginning, and Job came to have 14,000 sheep,
seeking him. 6,000 camels, 1,000 pairs of cattle, and 1,000 female
(1 Peter 3:12) For the eyes of Jehovah are on the righteous, donkeys.
and his ears listen to their supplication, but the face of (James 5:10, 11) Brothers, take as a pattern of the suffering
Jehovah is against those doing bad things. of evil and the exercising of patience the prophets who spoke
(1 John 5:14) And this is the confidence that we have toward in the name of Jehovah. 11 Look! We consider happy those
him, that no matter what we ask according to his will, he who have endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job

205
and have seen the outcome Jehovah gave, that Jehovah is me, Jehovah himself will take me in.
very tender in affection and merciful. (Matthew 10:34-37) Do not think I came to bring peace to
(Job 42:5) My ears have heard about you, But now I do see the earth; I came to bring, not peace, but a sword. 35 For I
you with my eyes. came to cause division, with a man against his father, and a
daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against
her mother-in-law. 36 Indeed, a mans enemies will be those of
Endurance Accomplishes a Great Work
his own household. 37 Whoever has greater affection for
(James 1:2-4) Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you father or mother than for me is not worthy of me; and
meet with various trials, 3 knowing as you do that this tested whoever has greater affection for son or daughter than for me
quality of your faith produces endurance. 4 But let endurance is not worthy of me.
complete its work, so that you may be complete and sound in
(Mark 10:29, 30) Jesus said: Truly I say to you, no one has
all respects, not lacking in anything.
left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children
(2 Peter 3:9) Jehovah is not slow concerning his promise, as or fields for my sake and for the sake of the good news 30 who
some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you will not get 100 times more now in this period of time
because he does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields, with
all to attain to repentance. persecutionsand in the coming system of things,
(2 Peter 3:15) Furthermore, consider the patience of our Lord everlasting life.
as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote you (Proverbs 1:8) Listen, my son, to the discipline of your
according to the wisdom given him, father, And do not forsake the instruction of your mother.
(Hebrews 12:11) True, no discipline seems for the present to
Page 153 Unit 17 (b) be joyous, but it is painful; yet afterward, it yields the
peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been
trained by it.
You Need Endurance
(Psalm 41:3) Jehovah will sustain him on his sickbed;
During his sickness you will completely change his bed.
(Hebrews 10:36) For you need endurance, so that after you
have done the will of God, you may receive the fulfillment of (Matthew 11:28-30) Come to me, all you who are toiling and
the promise. loaded down, and I will refresh you. 29 Take my yoke upon
you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in
(Romans 5:3, 4) Not only that, but let us rejoice while in
heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves. 30 For my
tribulations, since we know that tribulation produces
yoke is kindly, and my load is light.
endurance; 4 endurance, in turn, an approved condition; the
approved condition, in turn, hope, (Romans 12:12) Rejoice in the hope. Endure under
tribulation. Persevere in prayer.
(James 1:4) But let endurance complete its work, so that you
may be complete and sound in all respects, not lacking in
anything. Page 154 Unit 17 (b)
(Luke 8:15) As for that on the fine soil, these are the ones
who, after hearing the word with a fine and good heart, retain (Psalm 37:25) I was once young and now I am old, But I
it and bear fruit with endurance. have not seen anyone righteous abandoned, Nor his children
(1 Corinthians 10:13) No temptation has come upon you looking for bread.
except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he (Matthew 5:3) Happy are those conscious of their spiritual
will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but need, since the Kingdom of the heavens belongs to them.
along with the temptation he will also make the way out so (Matthew 6:33) Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom
that you may be able to endure it. and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added
(Proverbs 27:11) Be wise, my son, and make my heart to you.
rejoice, So that I can make a reply to him who taunts me. (Psalm 55:22) Throw your burden on Jehovah, And he will
(Acts 5:41) So they went out from before the Sanhedrin, sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall.
rejoicing because they had been counted worthy to be (John 16:33) I have said these things to you so that by means
dishonored in behalf of his name. of me you may have peace. In the world you will have
(Hebrews 12:1, 2) So, then, because we have such a great tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world.
cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also throw off every
weight and the sin that easily entangles us, and let us run with *** yb01 pp. 59-60 Worldwide Report ***
endurance the race that is set before us, 2 as we look intently
at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. For the In Portugal, Antonios interest in the Bibles message was
joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, kindled by discussions he enjoyed during visits by his fleshly
despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the brother who was one of Jehovahs Witnesses. Antonio
throne of God. yearned to learn more about the Bible. He fervently prayed
for help. Shortly thereafter, two Witnesses called at his home
(Psalm 27:10) Even if my own father and mother abandon
and began to study the Bible with him. As he progressed in
206
knowledge, Antonio began to make changes in his life to and I would write them down. . . . When I had written out
harmonize with Gods will. First, his conscience moved him enough scriptures I would select one for a daily text, copy it
to give up hunting, a sport he passionately enjoyed. Later, as and keep it somewhere prominent so that I could consider it
he came to understand the issue of Christian neutrality, he throughout the day.
decided to resign from his highly respected position as mayor 23
From all parts of the world come modern-day examples,
of a municipality, a post he had held for 15 years. Though he
proving that true Christians are never alone. In Germany,
was pressured to reconsider his resignation, the counsel at
during World War II, thousands of Witnesses were put in
James 4:4 strengthened him to refuse. Progress was rapid as
Hitlers concentration camps, usually deprived of their
he and his wife deepened their relationship with Jehovah and
Bibles. One of those Witnesses, after his release, wrote:
began attending congregation meetings. In a short time, they
When I was arrested I was thankful that I had not neglected
were sharing in field service and were baptized.
personal Bible study, as it helped me to have the faith to
From Spain comes the experience of a brother who, many endure. Frequently I thought about the endurance mentioned
years ago, was harassed because of his faith by a workmate. by the Bible writer James, who said: Look! We pronounce
The workmate ridiculed and criticized the brothers religion happy those who have endured.Jas. 5:11.
for months. The brother reached a point where he felt that he 24
Although the prison officials took the Bible away from
could endure no longer, so he prayed to Jehovah to help him
me, they permitted other prisoners [who were not Witnesses]
endure the difficult situation in a Christlike way, without
to have it. They thought that my faith would become weak if I
returning evil for evil. To the brothers surprise, the attitude
did not have the Bible, and I would renounce my faith by
of the workmate changed. He even apologized and assured
signing a declaration to that effect prepared by the Nazis.
the brother that he would never again speak badly of God in
They failed to realize that I had impressed the truth of Gods
front of him. A short time later, the workmate left the
Word deeply upon my mind by personal and group Bible
company.
study long before I was imprisoned. They could not remove
Twenty-four years passed before the brother met his those faith-strengthening truths from my mind.
former workmate again. This time it was at the Kingdom Hall 25
Witnesses in the United Arab Republic who were put in
where the brother was assigned to give a talk. The workmate
a concentration camp also experienced the faith-strengthening
told him that he had studied the Bible and had become a
power of Gods Word and they too never felt alone. Observed
baptized Witness. He further explained that though many
one Witness who had been a traveling representative of the
years had gone by, he had never forgotten that Witness who
Watch Tower Society before his imprisonment: Regardless
with so much patience endured constant ridicule of him and
of the amount of insults and beatings that we received, a few
his God.
seconds would pass and we would not feel anything more,
even though the beatings continued. We were feeling that
(Proverbs 15:28) The heart of the righteous one meditates Jehovah God was always with us.
before answering, But the mouth of the wicked blurts out bad
26
things. And how did those Witnesses arrange to take in
strength-giving spiritual food? One of them answered: Each
(2 Timothy 2:15) Do your utmost to present yourself
morning we would discuss an appropriate Bible text,
approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of,
selecting one that would be encouraging to our Christian
handling the word of the truth aright.
brothers. We would also select two chapters from the Bible to
talk about. Then each of us would draw from our memory the
information we could remember from these chapters. Each
Page 155 Unit 17 (b) evening, too, we would gather for a Bible talk. These daily
Bible discussions and talks indeed proved strengthening to
*** w72 9/1 p. 525 pars. 21-27 You Are Never Alone *** us.
27
21
That missionary was not alone, though in isolation, and Many indeed are the modern-day examples that prove
this is true no matter where any of Jehovahs servants may be. that true Christians are never alone; Jehovah is with them if
As that missionary further said: I might be isolated from my they trust and rely entirely upon him.
fellowmen, but no one could isolate me from God. What
spiritual strength and comfort prayer brought to me! . . . (1 Corinthians 15:33) Do not be misled. Bad associations
There are no guns, no walls, no prison bars that can keep the spoil useful habits.
spirit of God from reaching his people! If we have applied (Hebrews 10:24, 25) And let us consider one another so as to
ourselves to a study of his Word and allowed it to sink down incite to love and fine works, 25 not forsaking our meeting
deep into our hearts, there is nothing to fear. We do not stand together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one
in our own strength. But with Gods almighty power he is another, and all the more so as you see the day drawing near.
able to make even the most frail of us come off victorious in (Matthew 24:14) And this good news of the Kingdom will be
the face of persecution! preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the
22
Another imprisoned missionary in similar nations, and then the end will come.
circumstances explained: I had so much time on my (Matthew 28:19, 20) Go, therefore, and make disciples of
hands. . . . Many Scripture texts began to come to my mind people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the
207
Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, 20 teaching them personally.
to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I
When We Experience Trials
am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of
things. 4
James shows us how to view trials. (James 1:1-4) Not
(Proverbs 15:29) Jehovah is far away from the wicked, But mentioning his family tie with Gods Son, he humbly calls
he hears the prayer of the righteous. himself a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. James
writes to the twelve tribes of spiritual Israel scattered
(1 Timothy 1:18, 19) This instruction I entrust to you, my
about, initially because of persecution. (Acts 8:1; 11:19;
child Timothy, in harmony with the prophecies that were
Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 1:1) As Christians, we too are
made about you, that by these you may go on waging the fine
persecuted, and we meet with various trials. But if we
warfare, 19 holding faith and a good conscience, which some
remember that trials endured strengthen our faith, we will
have thrust aside, resulting in the shipwreck of their faith.
consider it all joy when they befall us. If we maintain our
(1 Peter 3:16) Maintain a good conscience, so that in integrity to God during trials, this will bring us lasting
whatever way you are spoken against, those who speak happiness.
against you may be put to shame because of your good
5
conduct as followers of Christ. Our trials include adversities common to mankind. For
example, poor health may plague us. God is not now
performing miraculous cures, but he answers our prayers for
Let Endurance Complete Its Work the wisdom and fortitude needed to deal with illness. (Psalm
(James 1:3, 4) knowing as you do that this tested quality of 41:1-3) We also suffer for righteousness sake as persecuted
your faith produces endurance. 4 But let endurance complete Witnesses of Jehovah. (2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 3:14) When
its work, so that you may be complete and sound in all we successfully endure such trials, our faith is proved,
respects, not lacking in anything. becoming one of tested quality. And when our faith
triumphs, this works out endurance. Faith made stronger
*** w97 11/15 pp. 8-9 Despite Trials, Cling to Your Faith! through trials will help us to endure future tests.
*** 6
But, says James, let endurance have its work
Despite Trials, Cling to Your Faith!
complete. If we allow a trial to run its course without trying
to end it quickly by unscriptural means, endurance will do the
Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you
work of making us complete as Christians, not lacking in
meet with various trials.JAMES 1:2.
faith. Of course, if a trial exposes some weakness, we should
seek Jehovahs help to overcome it. What if the trial is the
JEHOVAHS people serve as his Witnesses with faith in temptation to engage in sexual immorality? Let us pray about
him and joy of heart. (Deuteronomy 28:47; Isaiah 43:10) that problem and then act in harmony with our prayers. We
They do this although they are beset by many trials. Despite may need to change our place of employment or to take other
their hardships, they draw comfort from the words: Consider steps to maintain integrity to God.Genesis 39:7-9;
it all joy, my brothers, when you meet with various trials, 1 Corinthians 10:13.
knowing as you do that this tested quality of your faith works
out endurance.James 1:2, 3. The Quest for Wisdom
7
2
That statement was penned in about 62 C.E. by the James shows us what to do if we do not know how to
disciple James, a half brother of Jesus Christ. (Mark 6:3) deal with a trial. (James 1:5-8) Jehovah will not reproach us
James was an elder in the Jerusalem congregation. In fact, he, for lacking wisdom and praying for it in faith. He will help us
Cephas (Peter), and John seemed to be pillarsstrong, to view a trial properly and to endure it. Scriptures may be
solidly fixed supporters of the congregation. (Galatians 2:9) called to our attention by fellow believers or during Bible
When the issue of circumcision came before the apostles study. Events maneuvered through Gods providence may
and the older men in about 49 C.E., James made a enable us to see what we should do. We may be guided by
Scripturally sound proposal that was adopted by that first- Gods spirit. (Luke 11:13) To enjoy such benefits, naturally
century governing body.Acts 15:6-29. we must stick close to God and his people.Proverbs 18:1.
8
3
As a concerned spiritual shepherd, James knew the Jehovah grants us wisdom to cope with trials if we keep
appearance of the flock. (Proverbs 27:23) He realized that on asking in faith, not doubting at all. A doubter is like a
Christians were then facing severe trials. The thinking of wave of the sea driven by the wind and blown about
some required readjustment, for they were showing unpredictably. If we were that unstable spiritually, we should
favoritism to the rich. For a number, worship was a mere not suppose that we would receive anything from Jehovah.
formality. Some were causing harm with their unruly tongues. Let us not be indecisive and unsteady in prayer or in
A worldly spirit was having damaging effects, and many were other ways. Instead, let us have faith in Jehovah, the Source
neither patient nor prayerful. In fact, spiritual sickness had of wisdom.Proverbs 3:5, 6.
befallen certain Christians. The letter of James addresses such
matters in an upbuilding way, and his counsel is as practical (Matthew 5:48) You must accordingly be perfect, as your
today as it was in the first century C.E. We will benefit heavenly Father is perfect.
greatly if we consider this letter as one written to us (1 John 2:5) But whoever does observe his word, in this

208
person the love of God has truly been made perfect. By this
we know that we are in union with him.

Page 156 Unit 17 (b)

(Romans 8:38, 39) For I am convinced that neither death nor


life nor angels nor governments nor things now here nor
things to come nor powers 39 nor height nor depth nor any
other creation will be able to separate us from Gods love that
is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(1 Corinthians 13:7, 8) It bears all things, believes all things,
hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. But if
there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away with; if
there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it
will be done away with.
(1 Thessalonians 1:3) for we continually remember your
faithful work, your loving labor, and your endurance because
of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our
God and Father.
(2 Thessalonians 1:4, 5) As a result we ourselves take pride
in you among the congregations of God because of your
endurance and faith in all your persecutions and the hardships
that you are suffering. 5 This is a proof of the righteous
judgment of God, leading to your being counted worthy of
the Kingdom of God, for which you are indeed suffering.
(Luke 21:19) By your endurance you will preserve your
lives.
(James 1:12) Happy is the man who keeps on enduring trial,
because on becoming approved he will receive the crown of
life, which Jehovah promised to those who continue loving
Him.

209

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