Knowledge that leads to everlasting life (1995)
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That Leads to Everlasting Life KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life
©1995
WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
PUBLISHERS
WATCHTOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY OF NEW YORK, INC.
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK, U.S.A.
THIS BOOK IS PUBLISHED IN 145 LANGUAGE
TOTAL BOOKS PRINTED OF ALL EDITIONS:
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UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED.
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS ARE FROM THE MODERN-LANGUAGE
NEW WORLD TRANSLATION OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES—WITH REFERENCES,
1984 EDITION
PHOTO CREDITS
PAGE 20, BACKGROUND: BIBELMUSEUM, MUNSTER
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KNOWLEDGE THAT LEADS TO EVERLASTING LIFE ENGLISH (A/E)
MADE IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA CONTENTS
CHAPTER
CHAPTER PAGE
1 YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE! 6
2 THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD 12
3 WHO IS THE TRUE GOD? 23
4 JESUS CHRIST—THE KEY TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD 32
5 WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT? 43
6 WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE? 53
7 WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND 62
8 WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING? 70
9 WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES? 80
10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES 90
11 THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS! 98
12 RESIST WICKED SPIRIT FORCES 108
13 WHY LIVING A GODLY LIFE BRINGS HAPPINESS 118
14 WHOSE AUTHORITY SHOULD YOU RECOGNIZE? 130
15 BUILDING A FAMILY THAT HONORS GOD 140
16 HOW YOU CAN DRAW CLOSE TO GOD 150
17 FIND SECURITY AMONG GOD'S PEOPLE 160
18 MAKE IT YOUR AIM TO SERVE GOD FOREVER 170
19 WHEN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD FILLS THE EARTH 181
Beautiful surroundings like these can be yours forever!
What must you do to enjoy them? The answer lies in a special kind of knowledge.
This book will help you gain the knowledge that leads to everlasting life.
YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!
A WARM embrace from someone you love. Hearty laughter during a good meal with dear friends. The pleasure of watching your children cheerfully at play. Moments like these are bright spots in life. For many, however, life seems to present one serious problem after another. If that has been your experience, take heart.
2 It is God's will that you enjoy lasting happiness under the best conditions in wonderful surroundings. This is no mere dream, for God actually offers you the key to such a happy future. That key is knowledge.
3 We are talking about a special kind of knowledge that is far greater than human wisdom. It is "the very knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:5) Nearly 2,000 years ago, a Bible writer said: "Every house is constructed by someone, but he that constructed all things is God." (Hebrews 3:4) Think of the knowledge that the Maker of all things must possess! The Bible says that God counts and names all the stars. What a staggering thought, since there are hundreds of billions of stars in our own galaxy, and astronomers say that there are about a hundred billion other galaxies! (Psalm 147:4) God also knows all about us, so who else could provide better answers to life's important questions?—Matthew 10:30.
2. What does your Creator want for you?
What knowledge is the key to happiness, and why can we be sure that God can provide that knowledge?
4 Picture two men trying to repair their cars. Frustrated, one man throws down his tools. The other calmly corrects the problem, turns the ignition key, and smiles as the engine starts up and runs smoothly. You would not have a hard time guessing which of the two men had an instruction manual from the manufacturer. Does it not make sense that God would provide instructions to guide us in life? As you may know, the Bible claims to be just that—a book of instruction and guidance from our Creator, designed to impart the knowledge of God.—2 Timothy 3:16.
5 If the Bible's claim is true, think of what treasures of knowledge that book must contain! At Proverbs 2:1-5, it urges us to seek wisdom, to dig for it as we would for a hidden treasure—not in the soil of human thinking, but in God's own Word. If we search there, we will "find the very knowledge of God." Since God understands our limitations and needs, he gives us instruction that will help us to lead peaceful, happy lives. (Psalm 103:14; Isaiah 48:17) Furthermore, the knowledge of God offers us exciting good news.
EVERLASTING LIFE!
6 The well-known historical figure Jesus Christ described this feature of the knowledge of God in clear terms. He said: "This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John 17:3) Imagine—knowledge that leads to everlasting life!
7 Do not quickly dismiss everlasting life as a mere dream.
Instead, look at the way the human body is made. It is splendidly designed to taste, hear, smell, see, and feel. There is so much on the earth that delights our senses—delicious food, pleasant bird song, fragrant flowers, beautiful scenery, delightful companionship! And our amazing brain is far more than a supercomputer, for it enables us to appreciate and enjoy all such things. Do you think that our Creator wants us to die and lose all of this? Would it not be more reasonable to conclude that he wants us to live happily and to enjoy life forever? Well, that is what the knowledge of God can mean for you.
LIFE IN PARADISE
8 What the Bible says about the future of the earth and mankind might be summed up in one word—Paradise! Jesus Christ spoke of it when he told a dying man: "You will be with me in Paradise." (Luke 23:43) The mention of Paradise no doubt brought to that man's mind the happy state of our first parents, Adam and Eve. When God created them, they were perfect and lived in a gardenlike park that the Creator had designed and planted. It was fittingly called the garden of Eden, which name denotes pleasure.
9 How delightful that garden was! It was a real paradise. Among its beautiful trees were those bearing delicious fruit. As Adam and Eve explored their domain, drank from its sweet waters, and gathered fruit from its trees, they had no reason to be anxious or fearful. Even animals, posed no threat, for God had placed the man and his wife in loving dominion over all of them. In addition, the first human pair had vibrant health. As long as they remained obedient to God, an eternal, happy future lay before them. They were given the satisfying work of caring for their wonderful Paradise home. Further, God gave Adam and Eve the mandate to "fill the earth and subdue it."
They and their offspring were to extend the borders of Paradise until our entire planet became a place of beauty and delight.—Genesis 1:28.
10 When Jesus mentioned Paradise, however, he was not asking a dying man to think about the distant past. No, Jesus was speaking about the future! He knew that our entire earthly home would become a paradise. God would thus fulfill his original purpose for mankind and our earth. (Isaiah 55:10, 11) Yes, Paradise will be restored! And what will it be like? Let God's Word, the Holy Bible, answer.
LIFE IN THE RESTORED PARADISE
11 Sickness, old age, and death will no longer exist. "At that time the eyes of the blind ones will be opened, and the very ears of the deaf ones will be unstopped. At that time the lame one will climb up just as a stag does, and the tongue of the speechless one will cry out in gladness." [Isaiah 35:5, 6] "God himself will be with [mankind]. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."—Revelation 21:3, 4.
12 Crime, violence, and wickedness will be gone forever. "Evildoers themselves will be cut off... Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more. He will not be. But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth." (Psalm 37:9-11) "As regards the wicked, they will be cut off from the very earth; and as for the treacherous, they will be torn from it."—Proverbs 2:22.
13 Peace will prevail earth wide. "He [God] is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth. The bow he breaks apart and does cut the spear in pieces." (Psalm 46:9) "The righteous one will sprout, and the abundance of peace until the moon is no more."—Psalm 72:7.
14 Housing will be secure and work satisfying. "They will certainly build houses and have occupancy . . . They will not build and someone else have occupancy; they will not plant and someone else do the eating. For like the days of a tree will the days of my people be; and the work of their own hands my chosen ones will use to the full. They will not toil for nothing, nor will they bring to birth for disturbance."—Isaiah 65:21-23.
15 Healthful food will be available in abundance. "There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow." (Psalm 72:16) "The earth itself will certainly give its produce; God, our God, will bless us."—Psalm 67:6.
16 Everlasting life on a paradise earth will be delightful. "The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it." (Psalm 37:29) "The wilderness and the waterless region will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron."—Isaiah 35:1.
KNOWLEDGE AND YOUR FUTURE
17 If life in Paradise appeals to you, let nothing hold you back from gaining the knowledge of God. He loves mankind and will bring about the changes needed to make the earth a paradise.
After all, if you had the power to end the misery and injustice so prevalent in the world, would you not do so? Would we expect God to do less? Actually, the Bible speaks in vivid terms of a time when God will remove this strife-ridden system and replace it with a perfect, righteous rule. (Daniel 2:44) But the Bible does much more than tell us about all of this. It shows us how we can survive into God's promised new world.—2 Peter 3:13; 1 John 2:17.
18 The knowledge of God can also do much for you right now. Life's deepest and most disturbing questions are answered in the Bible. Accepting its guidance will help you to develop a friendship with God. What a grand privilege! And this will enable you to enjoy the peace that God alone can give. (Romans 15:13, 33) As you begin to take in this vital knowledge, you are embarking on the most important and rewarding endeavor of your life. You will never regret acquiring the knowledge of God that leads to everlasting life.
19 We have referred to the Bible as the book containing the knowledge of God. Yet, how do we know that it is, not a book of human wisdom, but something far greater? We will consider this question in the next chapter.
What can the knowledge of God do for you now?
What question will we consider in the next chapter?
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Why can the knowledge of God lead you to eternal happiness?
What will life be like in the coming earthly Paradise?
Why will you benefit from taking in the knowledge of God now?
THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
IT IS only reasonable that our loving Creator would provide a book of instruction and guidance for mankind. And do you not agree that humans need guidance?
2 More than 2,500 years ago, a prophet and historian wrote: "It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step." (Jeremiah 10:23) Today, the truthfulness of that statement is more evident than ever. Thus, historian William H. McNeill notes: "The human adventure on the face of this planet has been an almost uninterrupted series of crises and disruptions of society's established order."
3 The Bible fills all our needs for wise direction. True, many are overwhelmed when they first look through the Bible. It is a big book, and some portions of it are not easy to understand. But if you were given a legal document outlining what you had to do in order to receive a valuable inheritance, would you not take the time to study it carefully? If you found certain parts of the document hard to understand, likely you would get the help of someone experienced in such matters. Why not approach the Bible with a similar attitude?
(Acts 17:11) More is at stake than a material inheritance. As we learned in the previous chapter, the knowledge of God can lead to everlasting life.
4 Let us examine the book that reveals the knowledge of God. We will first give a brief overview of the Bible. Then we will discuss reasons why many informed people believe that it is the inspired Word of God.
WHAT THE BIBLE CONTAINS
5 The Bible contains 66 books in two sections, often called the Old Testament and the New Testament. Thirty-nine Bible books were written mainly in Hebrew and 27 in Greek. The Hebrew Scriptures, consisting of Genesis through Malachi, cover creation as well as the first 3,500 years of human history. Examining this part of the Bible, we learn about God's dealings with the Israelites—from their birth as a nation in the 16th century B.C.E. on into the 5th century B.C.E.* The Greek Scriptures, containing the books of Matthew through Revelation, focus on the teachings and activities of Jesus Christ and his disciples during the first century C.E.
6 Some claim that the "Old Testament" is for Jews and the "New Testament" is for Christians. But according to 2 Timothy 3:16, "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial." Therefore, a proper study of the Scriptures must include the entire Bible. Actually, the two parts of the Bible complement each other, blending harmoniously to develop an overall theme.
PUT YOUR BIBLE TO GOOD USE
Becoming familiar with the Bible need not be difficult. Use its table of contents to learn the order and location of Bible books.
The books of the Bible have chapters and verses for easy reference. The chapter divisions were added during the 13th century, and a 16th-century French printer apparently divided the Greek Scriptures into the present-day verses. The first complete Bible to have both chapter and verse numbers was a French edition, published in 1553.
When scriptures are cited in this book, the first number indicates the chapter, and the next denotes the verse. For example, the citation "Proverbs 2:5" means the book of Proverbs, chapter 2, verse 5. By looking up the cited scriptures, you will soon feel at ease locating Bible texts.
The best way to become familiar with the Bible is to read it daily. At first, this may seem challenging. But if you read from three to five chapters a day, depending on their length, you will complete the reading of the entire Bible in a year. Why not start today?
Perhaps you have attended religious services for years and have heard some of the Bible read aloud. Or you may have read excerpts from it yourself. Did you know that the Bible has a common thread from Genesis through Revelation? Yes, a harmonious theme permeates the Bible. What is that theme? It is the vindication of God's right to rule mankind and the realization of his loving purpose by means of his Kingdom. Later, we will see just how God will fulfill this purpose.
8 In addition to outlining God's purpose, the Bible reveals his personality. For example, from the Bible we learn that God has feelings and that the choices we make matter to him. (Psalm 78:40, 41; Proverbs 27:11; Ezekiel 33:11) Psalm 103:8-14 says that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness."
He treats us compassionately, 'remembering that we are made of mere dust' and return to it at death. (Genesis 2:7; 3:19) What marvelous qualities he displays! Is this not the kind of God you want to worship?
9 The Bible gives us a clear view of God's standards. These are sometimes stated as laws. More often, however, they are reflected in principles taught by means of object lessons. God had certain events in ancient Israelite history written down for our benefit. These candid accounts show what happens when people work in harmony with God's purpose, as well as the sad outcome when they go their own way. (1 Kings 5:4; 11:4-6; 2 Chronicles 15:8-15) Reading such real-life accounts will undoubtedly touch our hearts. If we try to visualize the events recorded, we can identify with the people involved in them. Thus, we can benefit from good examples and can avoid the pitfalls that ensnared wrongdoers. However, this vital question requires an answer: How can we be sure that what we read in the Bible is actually inspired of God?
CAN YOU TRUST THE BIBLE?
10 Perhaps you have noticed that many books offering advice become outdated in just a few years. What about the Bible? It is very old, and almost 2,000 years have passed since its last words were penned. Some therefore feel that it is not applicable to our modern age. But if the Bible is inspired of God, its advice should always be up-to-date despite its great age. The Scriptures should still be "beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work."—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
11 Close examination reveals that Bible principles apply just as much today as they did when they were first put down in writing. When it comes to human nature, for instance, the Bible reflects keen understanding that applies to every generation of mankind. We can easily see this in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, found in the book of Matthew, chapters 5 to 7. This sermon so impressed the late Indian leader Mohandas K. Gandhi that he reportedly told a British official: "When your country and mine shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems not only of our countries but those of the whole world."
12 No wonder people are impressed by Jesus' teachings! In the Sermon on the Mount, he showed us the way to true happiness. He explained how to settle disputes. Jesus provided instruction on how to pray. He pointed out the wisest attitude to have toward material needs and gave the Golden Rule for proper relationships with others. How to detect religious frauds and how to have a secure future were also among the points covered in this sermon.
13 In the Sermon on the Mount and throughout the rest of its pages, the Bible clearly tells us what to do and what to avoid in order to improve our lot in life. So practical is its counsel that one educator was moved to say: "Although being a high-school counselor with bachelor's and master's degrees and having read a large number of books on mental health and psychology, I discovered that the Bible's counsel on such things as having a successful marriage, preventing juvenile delinquency and how to gain and keep friends is far superior to anything I had read or studied in college." In addition to being practical and up-to-date, the Bible is dependable.
ACCURATE AND RELIABLE
14 Though the Bible is not a science textbook, it is scientifically accurate. For example, at a time when most people believed that the earth was flat, the prophet Isaiah referred to it as a "circle" (Hebrew, chugh, which here carries the idea of "sphere") (Isaiah 40:22). The idea of a spherical earth was not widely accepted until thousands of years after Isaiah's day. Furthermore, Job 26:7—written more than 3,000 years ago—states that God is "hanging the earth upon nothing." Says one Bible scholar: "How Job knew the truth, demonstrated by astronomy, that the earth hangs self-poised in empty space, is a question not easily solved by those who deny the inspiration of Holy Scripture."
15 The style of reporting found in the Bible also strengthens our confidence in this age-old book. Unlike myths, the events covered in the Bible are linked to specific people and dates. (1 Kings 14:25; Isaiah 36:1; Luke 3:1, 2) And whereas ancient historians nearly always exaggerated the victories of their rulers and hid their defeats and mistakes, the Bible writers were candid and honest—even about their own serious sins.—Numbers 20:7-13; 2 Samuel 12:7-14; 24:10.
A BOOK OF PROPHECY
16 Fulfilled prophecy gives conclusive evidence that the Bible is inspired of God. The Bible contains many prophecies that have been fulfilled in detail. Obviously, mere humans could not be responsible for this. What, then, is behind these prophecies? The Bible itself says that "prophecy was at no time brought by man's will, but men spoke from God as they were borne along by holy spirit," or God's active force.
(2 Peter 1:21) Consider some examples.
17 The fall of Babylon. Isaiah and Jeremiah both foretold Babylon's fall to the Medes and the Persians. Remarkably, Isaiah's prophecy about this event was recorded some 200 years before Babylon was conquered! The following aspects of prophecy are now matters of historical record: the drying up of the Euphrates River by diverting its waters to an artificial lake (Isaiah 44:27; Jeremiah 50:38); a careless lack of security at Babylon's river gates (Isaiah 45:1); and the conquest by a ruler named Cyrus. —Isaiah 44:28.
18 The rise and fall of "the king of Greece." In a vision, Daniel saw a male goat strike down a ram, breaking its two horns. Then, the goat's great horn was broken, and four horns came up in its place. (Daniel 8:1-8) To Daniel it was explained: "The ram that you saw possessing the two horns stands for the kings of Media and Persia. And the hairy goat stands for the king of Greece; and as for the great horn that was between its eyes, it stands for the first king. And that one having been broken, so that there were four that finally stood up instead of it, there are four kingdoms from his nation that will stand up, but not with his power." (Daniel 8:20-22) True to this prophecy, some two centuries later, "the king of Greece," Alexander the Great, overthrew the two-horned Medo-Persian Empire. Alexander died in 323 B.C.E. and was eventually replaced by four of his generals. However, none of these subsequent kingdoms matched the power of Alexander's empire.
THE BIBLE-A UNIQUE BOOK
The Bible is "inspired of God." (2 Timothy 3:16) Although humans penned the words, God directed their thoughts, so that the Bible is really "the word of God." —1 Thessalonians 2:13.
The Bible was written over a period of 16 centuries, by some 40 contributors from diverse backgrounds. Nevertheless, the finished product is harmonious from beginning to end.
The Bible has survived more controversy than any other book. During the Middle Ages, people were burned at the stake simply for possessing a copy of the Scriptures.
The Bible is the number one best seller in the world. It has been translated, in whole or in part, into over 2,000 languages. Billions of copies have been printed, and there is hardly a place on earth where a copy cannot be found.
The oldest portion of the Bible dates back to the 16th century B.C.E. This is before the appearance of the Hindu Rig-Veda (in about 1300 B.C.E.), or the Buddhist "Canon of the Three Baskets" (fifth century B.C.E.), or the Islamic Koran (seventh century C.E.), as well as the Shinto Nihongi (720 C.E.).
19 The life of Jesus Christ. The Hebrew Scriptures contain scores of prophecies fulfilled in the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus. For example, more than 700 years in advance, Micah foretold that the Messiah, or Christ, would be born in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4-7) Micah's contemporary Isaiah foretold that the Messiah would be struck and spit upon. (Isaiah 50:6; Matthew 26:67) Five hundred years in advance, Zechariah prophesied that the Messiah would be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver. (Zechariah 11:12; Matthew 26:15) More than a thousand years beforehand, David foretold circumstances associated with the death of Jesus the Messiah. (Psalm 22:7, 8, 18; Matthew 27:35, 39-43) And some five centuries in advance, Daniel's prophecy revealed when the Messiah would appear as well as the length of his ministry
and the time of his death.
(Daniel 9:24-27) This is just a sampling of the prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ. You will find it rewarding to read much more about him later.
20 Many other long-range Bible prophecies have already been fulfilled. 'But,' you may ask, 'how does this affect my life?' Well, if someone told you the truth for many years, would you suddenly doubt him when he said something new? No! God has told the truth throughout the Bible. Should this not build your trust in what the Bible promises, such as its prophecies regarding a coming earthly paradise? Indeed, we can have the same confidence as did Paul, one of Jesus' first-century disciples, who wrote that 'God cannot lie.' (Titus 1:2) Furthermore, when we read the Scriptures and apply their counsel, we are exercising wisdom that humans cannot achieve on their own, for the Bible is the book that reveals the knowledge of God that leads to everlasting life.
"FORM A LONGING" FOR THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
21 As you study the Bible, you are likely to learn things that differ from what you have been taught in the past. You may even find that some of your cherished religious customs do not please God. You will learn that God has standards of right and wrong higher than those common in this permissive world. This may seem overwhelming at first. But be patient! Carefully examine the Scriptures to find the knowledge of God. Be open to the possibility that the Bible's counsel may call for an adjustment in your thinking and actions.
22 Well-meaning friends and relatives may oppose your study of the Bible, but Jesus said: "Everyone, then, that confesses union with me before men, I will also confess union with him before my Father who is in the heavens; but whoever disown me before men, I will also disown him before my Father who is in the heavens."
(Matthew 10:32, 33) Some may fear that you will become involved with a cult or will turn into a fanatic. In reality, however, you are merely striving to gain accurate knowledge of God and of his truth. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4) To help others understand this, be reasonable, not argumentative, when you speak to them about what you are learning. (Philippians 4:5) Remember that many are "won without a word" when they see evidence that Bible knowledge really benefits people.—1 Peter 3:1, 2.
23 The Bible urges us: "As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word." (1 Peter 2:2) An infant depends on nourishment from its mother and is insistent on having that need met. Similarly, we are dependent on knowledge from God. "Form a longing" for his Word by continuing your study. Indeed, make it your goal to read the Bible daily. (Psalm 1:1-3) This will bring you rich blessings, for Psalm 19:11 says of God's laws: "In the keeping of them there is a large reward."
How can you "form a longing" for the knowledge of God?
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
In what ways is the Bible like no other book?
Why can you trust the Bible?
What proves to you that the Bible is God's inspired Word?
WHO IS THE TRUE GOD?
WHEN you look at the sky on a clear night, are you not amazed to see so many stars? How do you account for their existence? And what about the living things on earth—colorful flowers, birds with their delightful songs, powerful whales that leap in the ocean? The list goes on and on. All of this could not have come about by chance. No wonder many agree with the Bible's opening words: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth!"—Genesis 1:1.
2 Mankind is greatly divided on the question of God. Some think that God is an impersonal force. Millions worship dead ancestors, believing that God is too remote to be approached. But the Bible reveals that the true God is a real person who shows warm interest in us as individuals. That is why it encourages us to "seek God," saying: "He is not far off from each one of us."—Acts 17:27.
3 What does God look like? A few of his servants have seen visions of his glorious presence. In these he has symbolized himself as seated on a throne, awesome brightness extending from him. However, those who behold such visions never described a distinct face. (Daniel 7:9, 10; Revelation 4:2, 3) That is because "God is a Spirit"; he does not have a physical body (John 4:24) In fact, it is impossible to make an accurate physical image of our Creator, for "no man has seen God at any time."
(John 1:18; Exodus 33:20) Yet, the Bible teaches us much about God.
THE TRUE GOD HAS A NAME
4 In the Bible, the true God is identified by such expressions as "God Almighty," "the Most High," "Grand Creator," "Grand Instructor," "Sovereign Lord," and "King of eternity." (Genesis 17:1; Psalm 50:14; Ecclesiastes 12:1; Isaiah 30:20; Aets 4:24; 1 Timothy 1:17) Meditating upon such titles can help us grow in the knowledge of God.
5 However, God has a unique name that appears almost 7,000 times in the Hebrew Scriptures alone—more often than any of his titles. Some 1,900 years ago, the Jews superstitiously ceased to pronounce the divine name. Biblical Hebrew was written without vowels. Hence, there is no way to be precise about how Moses, David, or others of ancient times pronounced the four consonants (שְׁבְעָה) that make up the divine name. Some scholars suggest that God's name may have been pronounced "Yahweh," but they cannot be sure. The English pronunciation "Jehovah" has been in use for centuries, and its equivalent in many languages is widely accepted today.—See Exodus 6:3 and Isaiah 26:4 in the King James Version.
WHY YOU SHOULD USE GOD'S NAME
6 God's unique name, Jehovah, serves to differentiate him from all other gods. That is why that name appears so often in the Bible, especially in its Hebrew text.
Many translators fail to use the divine name, but Psalm 83:18 clearly says: "You, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth." So it is appropriate for us to use God's personal name when we speak of him.
7 The name Jehovah is a form of a Hebrew verb meaning "to become." Thus, God's name means "He Causes to Become." Jehovah God thereby identifies himself as the Great Purposer. He always causes his purposes to become reality. Only the true God can rightly bear this name, for humans can never be sure that their plans will succeed. (James 4:13, 14) Jehovah alone can say: "So my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be... It will have certain success in that for which I have sent it."—Isaiah 55:11.
8 The Hebrew patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob each "called on the name of Jehovah," but they did not know the full significance of the divine name. (Genesis 21:33; 26:25; 32:9; Exodus 6:3) When Jehovah later revealed his purpose to deliver their descendants, the Israelites, from slavery in Egypt and give them "a land flowing with milk and honey," this may have seemed impossible. (Exodus 3:17) Nevertheless, God emphasized the everlasting significance of his name by telling his prophet Moses: "This is what you are to say to the sons of Israel, 'Jehovah the God of your forefathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.' This is my name to time indefinite, and this is the memorial of me to generation after generation."—Exodus 3:15.
9 Moses asked Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, to let the Israelites go to worship Jehovah in the wilderness.
But Pharaoh, who himself was viewed as a god and who worshiped other Egyptian gods, replied: "Who is Jehovah, so that I should obey his voice to send Israel away? I do not know Jehovah at all and, what is more, I am not going to send Israel away."—Exodus 5:1, 2.
10 Jehovah then took progressive action to fulfill his purpose, acting in harmony with the meaning of his name. He brought ten plagues upon the ancient Egyptians. The last plague killed all of Egypt's firstborn, including proud Pharaoh's son. Then the Egyptians were eager for Israel to go. However, some Egyptians were so impressed by Jehovah's power that they joined the Israelites in leaving Egypt—Exodus 12:35-38.
11 Stubborn Pharaoh and his army, with hundreds of war chariots, set out to recapture his slaves. As the Egyptians drew near, God miraculously divided the Red Sea so that the Israelites could cross on dry land. When the pursuers entered the seabed, Jehovah "kept taking wheels off their chariots so that they were driving them with difficulty." The Egyptian warriors cried: "Let us flee from any contact with Israel, because Jehovah certainly fights for them against the Egyptians." But it was too late. The vast walls of water crashed down and "covered the war chariots and the cavalrymen belonging to all of Pharaoh's military forces." (Exodus 14:22-25, 28) Jehovah thus made a great name for himself, and that event has not been forgotten to this day.—Joshua 2:9-11.
meaning for us today. His name, Jehovah, stands as a guarantee that all he has purposed he will cause to come true. That includes accomplishing his original purpose that our earth become a paradise. (Genesis 1:28; 2:8) To that end, God will eliminate all opposers of his sovereignty today, for he has stated: "They will have to know that I am Jehovah." (Ezekiel 38:23) Then God will fulfill his promise to deliver his worshipers into a new world of righteousness. —2 Peter 3:13.
13 All who want God's favor must learn to call upon his name in faith. The Bible promises: "Everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved." (Romans 10:13) Yes, the name Jehovah has rich meaning. Calling upon Jehovah as your God and Deliverer can lead you to endless happiness.
QUALITIES OF THE TRUE GOD
14 A study of Israel's deliverance from Egypt highlights four basic qualities that God possesses in perfect balance. His dealings with Pharaoh revealed his awesome power. (Exodus 9:16) The masterful way God handled that complex situation showed his matchless wisdom. (Romans 11:33) He revealed his justice in meting out punishment to stubborn opposers and oppressors of his people. (Deuteronomy 32:4) A preeminent quality of God is love. Jehovah showed outstanding love by fulfilling his promise respecting Abraham's descendants. (Deuteronomy 7:8) He also showed love by allowing some Egyptians to forsake false gods and benefit greatly by taking their stand for the only true God.
15 As you read the Bible, you will notice that love is God's principal attribute, and he demonstrates it in many ways. For instance, it was out of love that he became a Creator and first shared the joy of life with spirit creatures.
Those hundreds of millions of angels love God and praise him. (Job 38:4, 7; Daniel 7:10) God also showed love in creating the earth and preparing it for happy human existence.—Genesis 1:1, 26-28; Psalm 115:16.
16 We benefit from God's love in ways too numerous to mention. For one thing, God has lovingly made our bodies in such a marvelous way that we can enjoy life. (Psalm 139:14) His love is shown in that he provides "rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling [our] hearts to the full with food and good cheer." (Acts 14:17) God even "makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good and makes it rain upon righteous people and unrighteous." (Matthew 5:45) Love also moves our Creator to help us gain the knowledge of God and serve him happily as his worshipers. Indeed, "God is love." (1 John 4:8) But there is much more to his personality.
"A GOD MERCIFUL AND GRACIOUS"
17 After the Israelites crossed the Red Sea, they still needed to know God better. Moses felt this need and prayed: "If, please, I have found favor in your eyes, make me know, please, your ways, that I may know you, in order that I may find favor in your eyes." (Exodus 33:13) Moses got to know God better upon hearing God's own declaration: "Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth, preserving loving-kindness for thousands, pardoning error and transgression and sin, but by no means will he give exemption from punishment." (Exodus 34:6, 7) God balances his love with justice, not shielding willful sinners from the consequences of their wrongdoing.
What do we learn about God at Exodus 34:6, 7?
How well do you know the Creator of all things?
18 As Moses learned, Jehovah shows mercy. A merciful person has pity on those who suffer and tries to bring them relief. Thus God has shown compassion for mankind by making provision for permanent relief from suffering, sickness, and death. (Revelation 21:3-5) Worshipers of God may experience calamities because of conditions in this wicked world, or they may act unwise and meet up with trouble. But if they humbly turn to Jehovah for assistance, he will comfort and help them. Why? Because he mercifully shows tender regard for his worshipers:—Psalm 86:15; 1 Peter 56, 7.
19 Many people in authority treat others harshly. In contrast, how gracious Jehovah is toward his humble servants! Though he is the highest authority in the universe, he shows outstanding kindness in a general way to all mankind.
(Psalm 8:3, 4: Luke 6:35) Jehovah is also gracious to individuals, answering their specific pleas for favor. (Exodus 22:26, 7: Luke 18:13, 14) Of course, God is not obligated to show favor or mercy to anyone. (Exodus 33:19) Therefore, we need to manifest deep appreciation for God's mercy and graciousness — Psalm 14:51, 8:
SLOW TO ANGER IMPARTIAL, AND RIGHTEOUS
20 Jehovah is slow to anger. Yet, this does not mean that he does not take action, for he did so in destroying stubborn Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea. Jehovah is also impartial. Hence, his favored people, the Israelites, eventually lost his favor because of their persistent wrongdoing. God accepts as his worshipers people from all nations, but only those who conform to his righteous ways.—Acts 10:34, 35.
21 The Bible book of Revelation highlights the importance of learning about God's "righteous decrees." It tells us that heavenly creatures sing: "Great and wonderful are your works, Jehovah God, the Almighty. Righteous and true are your ways. King of eternity. Who will not really fear you, Jehovah, and glorify your name, because you alone are loyal? For all the nations will come and worship before you, because your righteous decrees have been made manifest." (Revelation 15:2-4) We show wholesome fear of Jehovah, or reverence for him, by conforming to what he says is right. This is made easier by reminding ourselves of God's wisdom and love. All his commands are for our good.—Isaiah 48:17, 18.
"JEHOVAH OUR GOD IS ONE"
22 The ancient Egyptians worshiped many gods, but Jehovah is "a God exacting exclusive devotion."
(Exodus 20:5) Moses reminded the Israelites that "Jehovah our God is one Jehovah." (Deuteronomy 6:4) Jesus Christ repeated those words. (Mark 12:28, 29) Therefore, those who accept the Bible as God's Word do not worship a Trinity consisting of three persons or gods in one. In fact, the word "Trinity" does not even appear in the Bible. The true God is one Person, separate from Jesus Christ. (John 14:28; 1 Corinthians 15:28) God's holy spirit is not a person. It is Jehovah's active force, used by the Almighty to accomplish his purposes.—Genesis 1:2; Acts 2:1-4, 32, 33; 2 Peter 1:20, 21.
23 When you consider how wonderful Jehovah is, do you not agree that he deserves your worship? As you study his Word, the Bible, you will get to know him better and will learn what he requires of you for your eternal welfare and happiness. (Matthew 5:3, 6) In addition, your love for God will grow. That is fitting, for Jesus said: "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind and with your whole strength." (Mark 12:30) Obviously, Jesus had such love for God. But what does the Bible reveal about Jesus Christ? What is his role in Jehovah's purpose?
(a) How will your love for God grow? (b) What did Jesus say about loving God, and what do we need to learn about Christ?
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
What is God's name, and how often is it used in the Hebrew Scriptures?
Why should you use God's name?
What qualities of Jehovah God especially appeal to you?
JESUS CHRIST
THE KEY TO THE
KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
YOU are standing at the door, fumbling with your keys. It is cold and dark, and you are eager to get inside—but the key does not work. It looks right, yet the lock will not budge. How frustrating! You look at your keys again. Are you using the right one? Has someone damaged the key?
2 That is a fair picture of what this world's religious confusion has done with the knowledge of God. In effect, many have tampered with the key that opens it up to our understanding—Jesus Christ. Some religions have removed the key, ignoring Jesus altogether. Others have distorted Jesus' role, worshiping him as Almighty God. In any case, the knowledge of God is closed to us without an accurate understanding of this principal figure. Jesus Christ.
3 You may recall that Jesus said: "This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John 17:3) In saying this, Jesus was not being boastful.
The Scriptures repeatedly emphasize the need for accurate knowledge of Christ. (Ephesians 4:13; Colossians 2:2; Peter 1:8; 2:20) "To [Jesus Christ] all the prophets bear witness," noted the apostle Peter. (Acts 10:43) And the apostle Paul wrote: "Carefully concealed in [Jesus] are all the treasures of wisdom and of knowledge." (Colossians 2:3) Paul even said that all of Jehovah's promises come true because of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:20) So Jesus Christ is the very key to the knowledge of God. Our knowledge of Jesus must be free of any distortions as to his nature and as to his role in God's arrangement. But why do Jesus' followers consider him to be central to God's purposes?
THE PROMISED MESSIAH
4 From the days of the faithful man Abel, God's servants had eagerly looked forward to the Seed foretold by Jehovah God himself. (Genesis 3:15; 4:1-8. Hebrews 11:4) It had been revealed that the Seed would serve God's purpose as the Messiah, meaning "Anointed One." He would "finish off sin," and the glories of his Kingdom were foretold in the psalms. (Daniel 9:24-26; Psalm 72:1-20) Who would prove to be the Messiah?
5 Imagine the excitement felt by a young Jew named Andrew when he listened to the words of Jesus of Nazareth. Andrew rushed to his brother Simon Peter and told him: "We have found the Messiah." (John 1:41) Jesus' disciples were convinced that he was the promised Messiah. (Matthew 16:16) And true Christians have been willing to stake their lives on the belief that Jesus was indeed the foretold Messiah, or Christ. What proof have they had? Let us consider three lines of evidence.
EVIDENCE THAT JESUS WAS THE MESSIAH
6 Jesus' lineage lays the first basis for identifying him as the promised Messiah. Jehovah had told His servant Abraham that the promised Seed would come from his family. Abraham's son Isaac, Isaac's son Jacob, and Jacob's son Judah each received a similar promise. (Genesis 22:18; 26:2-5; 28:12-15; 49:10) The line of the Messiah's descent was narrowed down centuries later when King David was told that his family line would produce this One. (Psalm 132:11; Isaiah 11:1, 10) The Gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke confirm that Jesus came through that family line. (Matthew 1:1-16; Luke 3:23-38) Though Jesus had many bitter enemies, none of them challenged his well-publicized line of descent. (Matthew 21:9, 15) Clearly, then, his lineage is beyond question. However, the Jews' family records were destroyed when the Romans sacked Jerusalem in 70 C.E. In later times, no one could ever prove a claim to be the promised Messiah.
7 Fulfilled prophecy is a second line of evidence. Scores of Hebrew Scripture prophecies describe various aspects of the Messiah's life course. In the eighth century B.C.E., the prophet Micah foretold that this great ruler would be born in the insignificant town of Bethlehem. Two towns in Israel were named Bethlehem, but this prophecy specified which one: Bethlehem Ephrahim, where King David had been born. (Micah 5:2) Jesus' parents, Joseph and Mary, lived in Nazareth, some
90 miles north of Bethlehem.
While Mary was pregnant, however, the Roman ruler Caesar Augustus ordered all the people to register in their home cities.* So Joseph had to take his pregnant wife to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born.—Luke 2:1-7.
8 In the sixth century B.C.E., the prophet Daniel foretold that "Messiah the Leader" would appear 69 "weeks" after the order went forth to restore and rebuild Jerusalem. (Daniel 9:24, 25) Each one of these "weeks" was seven years long. According to the Bible and secular history, the order to rebuild Jerusalem was issued in 455 B.C.E. (Nehemiah 2:1-8) So the Messiah was to appear 483 (69 times 7) years after 455 B.C.E. That brings us to 29 C.E., the very year that Jehovah anointed Jesus with holy spirit. Jesus thus became "the Christ" (meaning "Anointed One"), or Messiah.—Luke 3:15, 16, 21, 22.
Of course, not everyone accepted Jesus as the promised Messiah, and the Scriptures had foretold this. As recorded at Psalm 2:2, King David was divinely inspired to foretell: "The kings of earth take their stand and high officials themselves have massed together as one against
<tr><th>PROPHECY
EVENT
FULFILLMENT
HIS EARLY LIFE
Isaiah 7:14
Born of a virgin
Matthew 1:18-23
Jeremiah 31:15
Babes killed after his birth
Matthew 2:16-18
HIS MINISTRY
Isaiah 61:1, 2
His commission from God
Luke 4:18-21
Isaiah 9:1, 2
Ministry caused people to see a great light
Matthew 4:13-16
Psalm 69:9
Zealous for Jehovah's house
John 2:13-17
Isaiah 53:1
Not believed in
John 12:37, 38
Zechariah 9:9; Psalm 118:26
Entry into Jerusalem on colt of an ass, hailed as king and as the one coming in Jehovah's name
Matthew 21:1-9
HIS BETRAYAL AND DEATH
Psalm 41:9; 109:8
One apostle unfaithful; betrays Jesus and is later replaced
Acts 1:15-20
Zechariah 11:12
Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver
Matthew 26:14, 15
Psalm 27:12
False witnesses used against him
Matthew 26:59-61
Psalm 22:18
Lots cast for his garments
John 19:23, 24
Isaiah 53:12
Numbered with sinners
Matthew 27:38
Psalm 22:7, 8
Reviled while dying
Mark 15:29-32
Psalm 69:21
Given vinegar
Mark 15:23, 36
Isaiah 53:5; Zechariah 12:10
Pierced
John 19:34, 37
Isaiah 53:9
Buried with the rich
Matthew 27:57-60
Psalm 16:8-11, ftn.
Raised before corruption
Acts 2:25-32;
Jehovah and against his anointed one."
This prophecy suggested that leaders from more than one land would unite in order to attack Jehovah's Anointed One, or Messiah. And so it was. The Jewish religious leaders, King Herod, and the Roman governor Pontius Pilate all played a part in having Jesus put to death. Former enemies Herod and Pilate became fast friends from then on. (Matthew 27:1, 2; Luke 23:10-12; Acts 4:25-28) For further proof that Jesus was the Messiah, please see the accompanying chart entitled "Some Outstanding Messianic Prophecies."
10 The testimony of Jehovah God is a third line of evidence supporting Jesus' Messiahship. Jehovah sent angels to let people know that Jesus was the promised Messiah. (Luke 2:10-14) In fact, during Jesus' earthly life, Jehovah himself spoke from heaven, expressing his approval of Jesus. (Matthew 3:16, 17; 17:1-5) Jehovah God gave Jesus the power to perform miracles. Each one of these was further divine proof that Jesus was the Messiah, for God would never give a fraud power to perform miracles. Jehovah also used his holy spirit to inspire the Gospel accounts, so that the evidence of Jesus' Messiahship became part of the Bible, the most widely translated and distributed book in history.—John 4:25, 26.
11 In all, these categories of evidence include hundreds of facts that identify Jesus as the promised Messiah. Clearly, then, true Christians have rightly viewed him as 'the one to whom all the prophets bore witness' and the key to the knowledge of God. (Acts 10:43) But there is more to learn about Jesus Christ than the fact that he was the Messiah.
Where did he originate? What was he like?
JESUS' PREHUMAN EXISTENCE
12 Jesus' life course might be divided into three stages. The first began long before he was born on the earth. Micah 5:2 said that the Messiah's origin was "from early times, from the days of time indefinite." And Jesus plainly said that he had come from "the realms above," that is, from heaven. (John 8:23; 16:28) How long had he existed in heaven before coming to the earth?
13 Jesus was called God's "only-begotten Son" because Jehovah created him directly. (John 3:16) As "the first-born of all creation," Jesus was then used by God to create all other things. (Colossians 1:15; Revelation 3:14) John 1:1 says that "the Word" (Jesus in his prehuman existence) was with God "in the beginning." So the Word was with Jehovah when "the heavens and the earth" were created. God was addressing the Word when He said: "Let us make man in our image." (Genesis 1:1, 26) Likewise, the Word must have been God's beloved "master worker," described at Proverbs 8:22-31 as wisdom personified, laboring at Jehovah's side in the making of all things. After Jehovah brought him into existence, the Word spent ages with God in heaven before becoming a man on earth.
14 No wonder Colossians 1:15 calls Jesus "the image of the invisible God!" Through untold years of close association, the obedient Son came to be just like his Father, Jehovah. This is another reason why Jesus is the key to the life-giving knowledge of God.
Everything Jesus did while on earth is exactly what Jehovah would have done. Hence, getting to know Jesus also means increasing our knowledge of Jehovah. (John 8:28; 14:8-10) Clearly, then, it is vital to learn more about Jesus Christ.
15 The second stage of Jesus' life course was here on earth. He willingly submitted as God transferred his life from heaven to the womb of a faithful Jewish virgin named Mary. Jehovah's powerful holy spirit, or active force, 'overshadowed' Mary, causing her to become pregnant and eventually give birth to a perfect baby. (Luke 1:34, 35) Jesus inherited no imperfection, since his life came from a perfect Source. He was reared in a humble home as the adopted son of the carpenter Joseph and was the first of several children in the family. —Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22, 23; Mark 6:3.
16 Jesus' deep devotion to Jehovah God was already evident when he was 12 years old. (Luke 2:41-49) After growing up and embarking on his ministry at the age of 30, Jesus also demonstrated his profound love for his fellow humans. When God's holy spirit empowered him to perform miracles, he compassionately healed the sick, the lame, the maimed, the blind, the deaf, the leprous. (Matthew 8:2-4; 15:30) Jesus fed hungry thousands. (Matthew 15:35-38) He calmed a storm that threatened the safety of his friends. (Mark 4:37-39) In fact, he even resurrected the dead. (John 11:43, 44) These miracles are well-established facts of history. Even Jesus' enemies ac knowledged that he 'performed many signs.'—John 11: 47,48.
17 Jesus traveled throughout his homeland, teaching people about God's Kingdom. (Matthew 4:17) He also set a sterling example of patience and reasonableness. Even when his disciples failed him, he sympathetically remarked: "The spirit, of course, is eager, but the flesh is weak." (Mark 14:37, 38) Yet, Jesus was courageous and forthright with those who despised the truth and oppressed the helpless. (Matthew 23:27-33) Above all, he perfectly imitated his Father's example of love. Jesus was even willing to die so that imperfect mankind would have a hope for the future. No wonder, then, that we may well refer to Jesus as the key to the knowledge of God! Yes, he is the living key! But why do we say a living key? This brings us to the third stage of his life course.
JESUS TODAY
Though the Bible reports on Jesus' death, he is now alive! In fact, hundreds of people living in the first century C.E. were eyewitnesses of the fact that he had been resurrected. (1 Corinthians 15:3-8) As prophesied, he thereafter sat at his Father's right hand and waited to receive kingly power in heaven. (Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 10:12, 13) So how should we envision Jesus today? Should we think of him as a helpless baby in a manger? Or as a suffering man being put to death? No. He is a mighty, reigning King! And very soon now, he will manifest his rulership over our troubled earth.
19 At Revelation 19:11-15, the King Jesus Christ is vividly described as coming with great power to destroy the wicked. How eager this loving heavenly Ruler must be to end the suffering that afflicts millions today! And he is just as eager to help those striving to imitate the perfect example he set while on earth.
(1 Peter 2:21) He wants to preserve them through the rapidly approaching "war of the great day of God the Almighty," often called Armageddon, so that they can live forever as earthly subjects of God's heavenly Kingdom.—Revelation 7:9, 14; 16:14, 16.
20 During Jesus' foretold Thousand Year Reign of peace, he will perform miracles in behalf of all mankind. (Isaiah 9:6, 7, 11:1-10; Revelation 20:6) Jesus will cure all sickness and will bring an end to death. He will resurrect billions so that they too may have an opportunity to live forever on earth. (John 5:28, 29) You will be thrilled to learn more about his Messianic Kingdom in a later chapter. Be assured of this: We cannot even imagine how wonderful our lives will be under Kingdom rule. How important it is to become better acquainted with Jesus Christ! Yes, it is essential that we never lose sight of Jesus, the living key to the knowledge of God that leads to everlasting life.
What will Jesus do for mankind during his Thousand Year Reign?
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
How did Jesus' lineage support his claim to be the Messiah?
What are some Messianic prophecies fulfilled in Jesus?
How did God directly show that Jesus was his Anointed One?
Why is Jesus the living key to the knowledge of God?
WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
HAVE you ever wondered, 'Whose worship does God accept?' A certain woman may have had such a question come to her mind when she spoke with Jesus Christ near Mount Gerizim in Samaria. Calling attention to a difference between the worship of the Samaritans and that of the Jews, she said: "Our forefathers worshiped in this mountain; but you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where persons ought to worship." (John 4:20) Did Jesus tell the Samaritan woman that God accepts all worship? Or did he say that specific things are required to please God?
2 Jesus' startling reply was: "The hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you people worship the Father." (John 4:21) The Samaritans had long feared Jehovah and had worshiped other gods on Mount Gerizim. (2 Kings 17:33) Now Jesus Christ said that neither that place nor Jerusalem would be important in true worship.
WORSHIP WITH SPIRIT AND TRUTH
3 Jesus went on to tell the Samaritan woman: "You
worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, because salvation originates with the Jews."
(John 4:22) The Samaritans had false religious ideas and accepted only the first five books of the Bible as inspired—and these solely in their own recension known as the Samaritan Pentateuch. Therefore, they did not really know God. However, the Jews had been entrusted with Scriptural knowledge. (Romans 3:1, 2) The Scriptures gave faithful Jews and any others who would listen what they needed in order to know God.
4 Actually, Jesus showed that both Jews and Samaritans would have to adjust their way of worship so as to please God. He said: "The hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him. God is a Spirit, and those worshiping him must worship with spirit and truth." (John 4:23, 24) We need to worship God "with spirit," motivated by hearts full of faith and love. It is possible to worship God "with truth" by studying his Word, the Bible, and by worshiping him according to his revealed truth. Are you eager to do that?
5 Jesus emphasized that God wants true worship. This shows that there are forms of worship unacceptable to Jehovah. To worship God means to give him reverent honor and to render sacred service to him. If you wanted to show honor to a powerful ruler, likely you would be eager to serve him and do what would please him. Surely, then, we want to please God. Rather than merely say, 'My religion suits me,' we therefore need to make sure that our worship meets God's requirements.
DOING THE WILL OF THE FATHER
6 Let us read Matthew 7:21-23 and see if we can isolate a crucial factor that determines whether all worship is acceptable to God. Jesus said: "Not everyone saying to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one doing the will of my Father who is in the heavens will. Many will say to me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and expel demons [wicked spirit creatures] in your name, and perform many powerful works in your name?' And yet then I will confess to them: I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness."
7 Acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord is essential in true worship. But something would be missing in the worship of many of those claiming to be Jesus' disciples. He said that some would perform "powerful works," such as supposed miraculous healings. However, they would fail to do what Jesus said is vital. They would not be "doing the will of [his] Father." If we want to please God, we must learn what the will of the Father is and then do it.
ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE-A PROTECTION
8 Doing God's will requires an accurate knowledge of both Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Such knowledge leads to everlasting life. Surely, then, all of us will want to take seriously the matter of gaining accurate knowledge from God's Word, the Bible.
Some say that there is no need for concern as long as we are sincere and zealous in our worship. Others claim, 'The less you know, the less is expected of you.' Yet, the Bible encourages us to increase in the knowledge of God and his purposes.
—Ephesians 4:13; Philippians 1:9; Colossians 1:9.
9 Such knowledge is a protection against contamination of our worship. The apostle Paul spoke of a certain spirit creature who pretends to be "an angel of light." (2 Corinthians 11:14) Thus disguised, this spirit creature—Satan—tries to mislead us into doing things contrary to God's will. Other spirit creatures associated with Satan have also been polluting people's worship, for Paul said: "The things which the nations sacrifice they sacrifice to demons, and not to God." (1 Corinthians 10:20) Likely, many have thought they were worshiping in the right way, although they were not doing what God wanted. They were being misled into unclean false worship. We will learn more about Satan and the demons later, but these enemies of God have definitely been polluting mankind's worship.
10 If you knew that someone had deliberately poisoned your water supply, would you go on drinking from it? Surely, you would take immediate action to find a source of safe, pure water. Well, an accurate knowledge of God's Word equips us to identify true religion and to reject impurities that make worship unacceptable to God.
COMMANDS OF MEN AS DOCTRINES
11 When Jesus was on earth, many Jews did not act in accord with accurate knowledge of God. They therefore lost the opportunity to have a clean standing before Jehovah. Concerning them, Paul wrote: "I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge." (Romans 10:2) They decided for themselves how to worship instead of listening to what he said.
12 The Israelites originally practiced God-given pure religion, but it became contaminated with teachings and philosophies of men. (Jeremiah 8:8, 9; Malachi 2:8, 9; Luke 11:52) Although the Jewish religious leaders known as Pharisees thought their worship was acceptable to God, Jesus told them: "Isaiah aptly prophesied about you hypocrites, as it is written. 'This people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far removed from me. It is in vain that they keep worshiping me, because they teach as doctrines commands of men.'" —Mark 7:6, 7.
13 Is it possible that we might do as the Pharisees did? This could happen if we followed religious traditions handed down to us instead of examining what God has said about worship. Warning of this very real danger, Paul wrote: "The inspired utterance says definitely that in later periods of time some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances and teachings of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) So it is not enough merely to assume that our worship pleases God. Like the Samaritan woman who met Jesus, we may have inherited our way of worship from our parents.
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