The Watchtower, March 1, 1923
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No. 5
.76
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.74
Upon Uh .l;» of nations mill peiple.xity;'tne art and the waves (the jeiiitss, discontented) roaung, menshwt’ failing them for fear and for looking „ __
thtaes Cuming upur the earth (society); for the powers of the heavens (ecdesiasticism) shall be shaken. . . . When ye see these things begin to curie to pas* then know that the Kingdom of God is at band. Look up. lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.—Matt. 24: 33; Mark 13:29; Luke 21:25-3$
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CB)e)foming
\ or.. XLIV
Semi-Monthly
Anno Mundi 6051 — March 1, 1923
CONTENTS
"ROCKOF AGES...., Otherfoundation can V 'no man lay
A,RAN SO MjFOft A L
Loyalty the Test................................
His Arrangement ..............................
What Constitutes the Society?.........
The Steward ......................................
Parable of the Talents...........-.........
The Accounting ................................
Self-Examination ..............................
Enter the Service..............................
Prayer-Meeting Text Comments......
Praying for Opportunities (Letter) Jesus in Gethsemane..........................
Secret of Jesus’ Victory.....................
Jesus Crucified ..................................
Center of Human History................
Disciple not above His Master........
.67
.67
.OS
.69
.69
,71
.72
*7 will stand upon my watch and will set my foot upon the Tower, and will natch to s”e uhat lie will san unto me, and uhat answer ! shall make to them
THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS journal is onfc of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bitrte instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now being presented in all parts of the civilised world by the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, chartered A. D. 1884, “For the Promotion of Christian Knowledge”. It not only serves as a class room where Bible students may meet in the study of the divine Word but also as a channel of communication through which they may be reached with announcements of the Society’s conventions and of the coming of Its traveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims”, and refreshed with reports of its conventions.
Our “Berean Lessons” are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society’s published Studies most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all who would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz., Veibi Dei Minister (V. D. M.), which translated into English is Minister of God’s Word. Our treatment of the International Sunday School Lessons is specially for the older Bible students and teachers. By some this feature is considered indispensable.
This journal stands firmly for the defense of the only true foundation of the Christian’s hope now being so generally repudiated —redemption through the precious blood of “the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom [a corresponding price, a substitute] for all”. (1 Peter 1:19; 1 Timothy 2:6) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: Ills; 2 Peter 1:5-11) of the Word of God, its further mission is to “make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which. . .has been hid in God, ... to the intent that now might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God”—“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed”.—Ephesians 3:5-9,10.
It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of men. while it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest Subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in the holy Scriptures. It is thus free to declare boldly whatsoever the Lord hath spoken—according to the divine wisdom granted unto us to understand his utterances. Its attitude is not dogmatic, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our readers to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made to facilitate such testing.
TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH
That the church is “the temple of the living God”, peculiarly “his workmanship”; that its construction has been in progress throughout the gospel age—ever since Christ became the world’s Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God's blessing shall come “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:16, 17 ; Ephesians 2:20-22; Genesis 28:14; Galatians 3:29.
That meantime the chiseling, shaping, and polishing of consecrated believers in Christ’s atonement for sin, progresses; and when the last of these “living stones”, “elect and precious,” shall have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the first resurrection ; and the temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.—Revelation 15 : 5-8.
That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man,” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world”t “in due time”.— Hebrews 2:9; John 1:9 ; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
That the hope of the church is that she may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be ‘partaker of the divine nature,’ and share his glory as his joint-heir.—1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Romans 8:17; 2 Peter 1:4.
•That the present mission of the church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service; to develop in herself every gi ace; to be God’s witness to the world; and to prepare to be kings and priests in the next age.—Ephesians 4:12; Matthew 243 14 ; Revelation 1:6; 20:6.
That the hope for the world Mes in the blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to all by Christ’s Millennial kingdom, the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified church# when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3:19-23; Isaiah 35.
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WATCHTOWER BIBLE &-TRACT SOCIETY
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(Foreign translations of this journal appear in several languages)
IN RE RADIO BROADCASTING
Replying to many requests concerning broadcasting of Bible lectures, hereafter when a program Is arranged and any of the brethren are to broadcast an effort will be made to give notice, so that the friends in various places may hear. The opportunities are not very great yet, however. We are looking for the Lord’s leading in this behalf.
IN RE PILGRIM SERVICE
The Pilgrims should be permitted to have one day of rest and opportunity to attend to their personal matters. Hence no meetings should be arranged for them for Saturdays. If they arrive at the home of a friend, the friend will confer a favor upon the Pilgrim and the Society’ by arranging for no meetings on Saturday afternoon or evening. The Pilgrim is thus permitted to be in better condition for a more strenuous day on Sunday and the days to follow.
1923 CALENDARS
We have on hand a limited number of 1923 Calendars, containing the year text and the weekly text for study. The Watch Tower carries brief comments on these texts to aid the friends in the study of them each week. This supply will last only a short time. In order to get the remaining number into the hands of the friends quickly, what is left of the stock will be sold at 25 cents apiece, as long as they last. Send in your order quickly.
HYMNS FOR APRIL
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday’ Thursday
Friday Saturday
1 135 8 145 15 86 22 Vow 29
2 147 9 183 16 270 23 218 30
3 289 IO 229 17 275 24
4 181 11 172 18 274 25
5 237 12 2 19 166 2 6
6 129 13 5 20 126 27
7 176 14 259 21 3 28
AND HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE
Vol. XLIV
Mabch 1, 1923
No. 5
LOYALTY THE TEST
"'For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.”—Matthew 25: Ik-
THE desire of The Watch Tower is not to offend anyone; but som.e who read this article will be offended. Others will read it and rejoice. When the saints can see that the Lord is using them to fulfil prophecy they have reason to rejoice. The truth often causes a cleavage between those who claim to be Christians, even separating the creature from the spirit of the Lord. (Hebrews 4:13) But he who really loves the Lord will rejoice when he finds that the Word corrects him and enables him to improve his course. (Proverbs 1:23) He is not offended because he sees or is shown the Lord’s purposes. “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” (Psalm 119: 165) The law of God is his will expressed in the nature of a commandment or rule of action, directed to his people. The manner in which we receive and do his commandments determines the degree of our love for him. This proves our love of God, that we keep his commandments with a joyful heart. (Uohn 5:3) A commandment given specifically to the church is, that the brethren love one another even as the Lord loved them. (John 13:34) Keeping this commandment in mind and doing it, there will be no occasion for one to become offended.—1 John 2:10.
2The real test that comes to every Christian is loyalty to the Lord. To be loyal to him means that we must be in heart harmony with his arrangement, which will also mean that we must be loyal to his body members, the brethren, who possess his spirit and whom he is using.
HIS ARRANGEMENT
"The question arises, What, if any, is the Lord's arrangement to carry on his work? It must be admitted by all Christians that God has an orderly plan; that he is working out this plan in every detail according to his sovereign will; that he makes no changes in that plan to suit the whims of any creature. His plan will be accomplished as he desires it. “I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.” (Isaiah 46:11) The outworking of his plan does not at all depend upon individuals. The Scriptures show that the Lord has an organization; that is to say, an organized method of carrying out all his work. Should some in his organization become disloyal, he would quickly find others to fill their places. Let us lay it down as a rule without an exception, that God cannot be inconsistent; that everything of his plan is in exact harmony with every other feature of his plan, and that every part is working in exact harmony. If, then, we are certain as to the proper understanding of one part of his plan, certainty on that point will furnish a guide to aid us in the examination and proper determination of some other part about which there might be some doubt in our minds.
*To illustrate this: Every part of the divine plan is in exact harmony, and squares with the ransom sacrifice. We know that we have the correct understanding of the ransom; therefore we have a correct guide or measure by which we can square other doctrines. The same principle will apply to every part of his plan when understood.
HIS SECOND COMING
“The fact of our Lord’s second coming is definitely settled by the Scriptures. (John 14: 2, 3; Acts 1:11; 2 Timothy 4:8) The Scriptures show that his second presence was due in 1874. (See C83-12L) Also it is definitely settled by his own words, that at the time of his second presence he would gird himself, cause his servants to sit down to meat, and world come forth and serve them. (Luke 12:37) He also firmly establishes the fact that during his presence he would conduct a harvest work (Matthew 13:18-40; 24:31) ; and with equal force he states that at that time he would appoint some one to the office of that “faithful and wise servant” and make him ruler over all his goods. (Matthew 24: 45-47) These points are incontrovertible; therefore must be considered by all reasonable and fair-minded Christians as conclusively settled.
6By proof is meant the physical facts in fulfilment of prophetic utterances by the Lord or some of his inspired witnesses. This proof shows that the Lord has been present since 1874, and that he has been conducting and is still conducting a harvest work; and that this harvest work has gathered together from every creed and drnomination, and from the four quarters of the earth, as well as from all the ecclesiastical systems, those who really love the Lord. It must be conceded, then, that this work of the Lord is done in an orderly way. He could do it in no other way except in an orderly way. If it is conceded that he began his work in an orderly way, the burden of proof is on the objectors to show that he would afterward change his course and do that work in a disorderly way. The presumption must be indulged that he would continue it in an orderly way, even to a completion.
TIn connection with his presence and the harvest work, the office of that “faithful and wise servant” is important, and is made so by the Lord himself. The one who fills that office is made ruler over all the Lord’s goods during the time of his incumbency in office. The office of that “faithful and wise servant” therefore is a part of the orderly manner in which the Lord carries on his work during his second presence. The office is of far greater importance than the individual who fills the office; for if the officer placed in the office should fail to fill it properly, the office would still exist, and the Lord could easily appoint or assign some one else to fill that office.
8We believe that all who are now rejoicing in present truth will concede that Brother Russell faithfully filled the office of special servant of the Lord; and that he was made ruler over all the Lord’s goods. Discussing this question of “that servant” himself in The Watch Tower (April 15, 1904). Brother Russell said:
®“ ‘Who then is the faithful and wise steward whom his Lord shall set over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season?’ The implication seems to be that when the right time should come for understanding the parable, it would be clearly set forth: that at the time of the parable’s fulfilment the Lord would appoint a servant in the household to bring these matters to the attention of all the servants, and that certain responsibilities would rest upon such a one respecting the dispatch of his duties. If faithfully performed, a great blessing would be his reward; and if unfaithful to his charge, severe penalties would be inflicted. The implication would be also that if faithful the servant would be continued in his service, and if unfaithful he would be dismissed and another take the position and Its responsibilities.
1#“. . . There would be no violation of principle, however, in supposing that the Lord at the time indicated would specially use one member of his church as the channel or instrument through which he would send the appropriate messages, spiritual nourishment appropriate at that time; because at various times in the past the Lord has used individuals in such a manner.”—Watch Tower Repbints, pages 3355, 3356.
11If Brother Russell filled that office, then it must be conceded that he did so under the supervision of the Lord. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” (Psalm 37: 23) Acting under the supervision of the Lord, Brother Russell organized the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society. In expressing his reason why the Society was organized, he said:
““It seems tolerably certain that some of the saints will be in the flesh during a great part at least of the ‘time of trouble'; and if so, there will be need of printed matter, tracts, etc., as much then, perhaps, as now, and possibly will be more heeded; for when the judgments of the Lord are ‘in the earth the inhabitants of the world will leant righteousness.’ (Isaiah 26:9) Should those at present prominently identified with the work [undoubtedly referring to himself] not be the last to be ‘changed,’ some interruption of the work might result; but this may be obviated by having a legal standing, granted by a State Charter.”—Watch Tower Reprints, page 671.
iaIn modest phrase Brother Russell here clearly indicated that it was his thought that the Society, as organized in an orderly manner, would carry on the work begun by him and finish that which had been committed to him personally. Often when asked by others, Who is that faithful and wise servant?—Brother Russell would reply: “Some say I am; while others say the Society is.” Both statements were true; for Brother Russell was in fact the Society in a most absolute sense, in this, that he directed the policy and course of the Society without regard to any other person on earth. He sometimes sought advice of others connected with the Society, listened to their suggestions, and then did according to his own judgment, believing that the Lord would have him thus do.
14Since Brother Russell’s “change” some who believe that he filled the office of “that servant” have said that the Lord has cast off the Society. Is such a conclusion either reasonable or Scriptural? Brother Russell’s own thought was that the Society would continue to do the Lord’s work as above indicated. Besides, if the Lord was pleased to have this organization started originally for his purposes, why should he cast it off? Why not continue to direct the servants therein according to his own will or supply other servants? Such is the reasonable conclusion.
15Do not the facts prove beyond a doubt that the Lord has been doing some harvest work during the past six years and since the death of Brother Russell? During that time have not many been gathered to the Lord, even out from the world, and have manifested every evidence of acceptance with the Lord? If the Lord, then, has been doing a work and is still doing it, is it reasonable to conclude that he is doing it in an orderly manner? If the Society is not being used to fulfil the office in carrying out the work, then W’ho is? Can any of the murmurers or objectors point to another arrangement the Lord has in which he is carrying out his work? If any of them know of any other arrangement, let them come forward and name it. If there is any such other arrangement that the Lord has, all the saints will want to be in harmony with it and serve in the Lord’s way, and not man’s way.
WHAT CONSTITUTES THE SOCIETY?
ieThe word Society as used herein is a generic term applied to the body of consecrated, anointed Christians throughout the world engaged in the work of representing the King and the King’s interests on earth. It is an organization for the purpose of doing the Lord’s work in an orderly way. This organization has its officers, elected in an orderly manner. The officers are not the Society, but are servants of the Society. Should every individual now in the Society prove disloyal, the Lord could put others into their places, and still the Society would exist and continue his work. Let us be wise enough to make the distinction between office and individual. All the individual members of the Society may make mistakes, being imperfect, but that would not mean that the Lord would cast off his organization and go about doing his work in a dorganized manner.
17If it is seen, then, that the Lord is conducting his work through his followers organized into a body for that purpose, and doing it in an orderly way, then all saints should wish to abide together in harmony and work together in harmony, following peace and holiness, having their hearts and minds united together in love; and in no other way could they get on. (Hebrews 12:14; Colossians 2:1-3, Diaglott) Each one, then, who represents the Lord should be looking out well for the interests of the King and his kingdom. Each one who possesses the spirit of the Lord will be glad to leave all judgment of his brother to the Lord, and to follow the admonition given by the Scriptures to cover the defects of his brother with the mantle of love. He will keep in mind that every servant must make his accounting to the Lord and not to any other body member.
THE STEWARD
18In .-p uking the parable of the vineyard, the Lord mentions a steward, whom he commands to deliver to the laborers their hire. (Matthew 20:1-16) The word steward is another manner of speaking of an offic', and would correspond well to the word servant as used in another place; and since the Lord is using an organized corporate body to carry on his work, it is reasonable then to conclude that this body fills the office of steward, and that it is not filled by an individual, A corporate body is a society having the capacity of acting as an individual, and may be spoken of as an individual.
19Some of those who were hired murmured against the steward. Some are murmuring against the Society and its way of carrying on the work. Any murmuring against the Lord’s way of doing a thing is a murmuring against the Lord. Some will now object to this and say that infallibility * oemg claimed for the Society. To this we answer: Such a claim is foolishness. No person exercising a sound mind would make .such a claim. The Lord has always used imperfect men to carry out his purposes. When we recognize the Society as the channel of service, we merely recognize the fact that the Lord is carrying on his work by and through an organized effort put forth by members of his body and under his supervision; and all glory is due to the Lord and should be given to him, and not to the servants. With these words as introductory, we now proceed to the examination of the
PARABLE OF THE TALENTS
2°In a previous issue of The Watch Tower (Z’23 35-40) will be found a discussion of the parable of the pounds. There is a close relationship between that parable and the parable of the talents. Jesus gave utterance to the latter parable two days before his crucifixion, and just before entering into Jerusalem. It is reasonable to conclude that the due time for understanding this parable in a clearer manner would be shortly before the church enters into the heavenly Jerusalem. (Hebrews 12:22) It will be observed that there is a close relationship between the office of the '‘faithful and wise servant” and the parable of the talents. Both were mentioned by the Lord about the same time. While the parable of the talents may have a measure of application throughout the gospel age, it seems to have special reference to the end of that age.
21The disciples had just propounded to Jesus a question as to what would constitute the proof of his second presence and of the end of the world; and after he had given them answer to this question and had told them of the office of the “faithful and wise servant,” he proceeded immediately to tell them about the parable of the “wise and foolish virgins,” beginning in this language: “Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins”; and as though that parable were a part of the parable of the talents, he opens the latter with these words: “For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.”—Matthew 25: 14,15.
22The man taking the journey here is the Lord Jesus going into heaven itself to receive at the hands of Jehovah a kingdom and to return and set it up.
2iIn the parable of the pounds the Lord committed all of his interests concerning his kingdom to all of his servants; while in the parable of the talents he committed his interests to his several servants, giving to each one according to his several ability.
DEFINITIONS
24As heretofore stated, the ten pounds represent all the interests of the Lord’s kingdom on earth committed into the hands of all his servants.
'-^Talents likewise is a term used concerning money; therefore a measure of value or valuable thing. Both the pounds and the talents belonged to the Lord; hence represented his interests in the kingdom. The talent was more valuable than the pound. “His goods” likewise we understand represent the interests of his kingdom. All the pounds, all the talents, and all of his goods were of equal value, because all represented the entire kingdom interests of the Lord on earth.
’’What, then, is meant by the expression used by our Lord: “To every man according to his several ability” ?
Ability means power, capacity, efficiency; the quality of being able. It will not do to view this matter from the human standpoint, because human ability means physical and mental strength, education, money, influence, ofttimes accompanied by a great deal of bluff and self-importance. Surely such is not valuable in the Lord’s sight. Satan has put that very thought into the minds of the clergy and made them believe that they are about the only ones that should ever expect to shine in the Lord’s kingdom; and they base their conclusion upon the fact of their great learning and ability to sway the people.
28Let us look at it from the divine viewpoint. Surely Jesus possessed the greatest ability of any one ever on earth. His ability did not consist of physical strength and a collegiate education; for he did not use his physical strength particularly, nor did he ever attend a theological school. Jehovah committed to him all of his interests. Of what, then, did the ability of Jesus consist? We answer: His absolute, complete devotion to the Fathers will; his complete loyalty to God. This finds expression in his words: “Lo, I come; in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, 0 my God; yea, thy law is within my heart.” His capacity was complete; therefore Jehovah filled him with his spirit in the complete s.ense, and he proved his loyalty to Jehovah to the utmost.
29The word translated ability is from the same Greek root word which our Lord used in speaking to his disciples in answer to a request that they have certain positions in his kingdom: “Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.” (Matthew 20: 22) Discussing this text, Brother Russell wrote:
S0“That these two noble apostles were not Inspired by selfish ambitions in this request is evidenced by their prompt reply to the Lord’s searching question and later on evidenced by their faithfulness even unto death. They said, ‘We are able’ ■—that is, ‘We are willing. God helping us, we will sacrifice everything to follow in your footsteps; we will count nothing dear unto us; we will lay aside every weight and every sinful besetment; we will run with patience the race set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.’ This we may assume to be a larger statement of their devotion.
31“Our Lord’s love and sympathy went out to them afresh as he answered them, guaranteeing that with such willingness of heart they should indeed have the experiences necessary to fit them for a place in the kingdom. What a comfort this is to even the weakest of the Lord’s followers who are sincere.”—Z’04-139.
22 We believe therefore that the correct definition of the term “several ability” is this: Complete consecration to the Lord and a joyful submission to his holy will; a loyal devotion to the Lord even unto death. Sueh ability or capacity increases the more one is filled with the spirit the Lord. The apostle Paul, in speaking about redeeming the time by faithful service to the Lord, said: “Be filled with the spirit” (Ephesians 5:16-18), thus increasing one’s ability or capacity. In the proportion that one has the spirit of the Lord in that proportion he possesses power or ability for good.—Romans 1:16; 1 Thessalonians 1:5.
ssThe spirit of the Lord does not consist of sanctimonious piety, nor an outward expression of “more holy than thou,” which is in fact hypocrisy. Having the spirit of Christ means to be absolutely loyal to God and to the Lord Jesus; completely devoted to the Lord and his cause, and doing the Lord’s service according to the Lord’s way. It means leaving self entirely out of sight and looking only to the Lord’s interests. The Pharisees could not be used by the Lord because they had no such ability. They wanted to do everything in their own selfish way.
J4The Lord is training men for future positions of authority and power. No one is capable of exercising authority until he has learned to obey authority. Humility means submissiveness; submissiveness means to obey; to obey means to do the service of the Lord in his appointed way. “Obedience is better than sacrifice.” It is of vital necessity to learn to be joyfully submissive or obedient to the Lord’s will. The parable teaches this very lesson. It is obedience and loyalty that merits and receives the reward.
‘“’Brother Russell was not a man of great natural ability as the world understands that term. He was not a man of profound education, never having graduated from any college or university. He was, therefore, from the world’s viewpoint not a learned man. These are some of the very objections the clergy have laid against him and still do so. But he was a man of real ability in the Lord’s sight. Why? Because of his complete consecration and his absolute, loyal devotion to the Lord and to the heavenly Father. He often hesitated long, to ascertain the Lord’s will concerning a matter; but when he was certain that he knew the will of the Lord, he permitted nothing to stop him in the performance of that will. He was loyal to the Lord always and to the very core. Without doubt he was one to whom the Lord committed five talents.
3lTt will be observed that the Lord did not commit or deliver unto that “faithful and wise servant” all of his goods, but that he did “make him ruler over all his goods.” A ruler is one to whom is given the authority to direct, to govern, to have oversight. In the same sense Jehovah made Daniel ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief governor over all the wise men of Babylon. (Daniel 2: 48) Since “his goods” means kingdom interests, then we understand that the Lord placed his “faithful and wise servant” in the position of general overseer, director or governor of his work concerning the earthly interests of the kingdom during the harvest period. The duties of “that servant,” then, would mean that he must look after the public proclamation of the truth and supervise the work of gathering together his saints and feeding the proper meat at the proper time, and that he would do so according to the Lord’s way during the period of the harvest. How wonderfully the facts fit this conclusion ! Brother Bussell did exercise those very duties of office. This is also completely corroborated by the duties of the same office pointed out by the prophet Ezekiel.—Ezekiel 9: 4.
Jr iffie Lord committed to each one of his servants certain interests of his kingdom; and to his “faithful and wise servant” direction or rulership over all the interests of his kingdom. But each servant must make his accounting to the Lord. No fellow servant is relieved of personal responsibility because of the office held by the “faithful and wise servant.”
Sb Every fellow servant has shown his ability or capac-itv and has increased the same in proportion as he has joyfully submitted to the Lord’s will by working in the hrrvest Held of the Lord in harmony with the Lord’s wt:y, which way the Lord used Brother Russell to point out, because Brother Russell occupied the office of that “faithful and wise servant.” He did the Lord’s work according to the Lord’s way. If, then, Brother Russell did the work in the Lord’s way, any other way of doing it is contrary to the Lord’s way and therefore could not be a faithful looking after the interests of the Lord’s kingdom.
"'Talents (kingdom interests) plus ability (loving and joyful submission to the Father’s will) results in oppor {unities of service; and by performing these opportunities of service faithfully, one proves his loyalty to the Lord. Performing service as opportunities come to the one having the talent constitutes trading with the talent. And in proportion as one faithfully, joyfully and lovingly shows his obedience and devotion to the Lord in the performance of such service, in that same proportion is the interest of the kingdom (talents) committed to him increased, and thereby furnishes him more opportunities.
40As an illustration: One fully submissive to the Lord enters the colporteur work. The Lord thereby commits to him certain interests of his kingdom. The colporteur joyfully performs that service; and as he does so his canacity increases, and the Lord permits the interests committed to him to abound or increase by giving him wider oppoitunities of service in permitting him to address public assemblies, organize classes, give instruction, and bring more to a knowledge of the truth. His performance of service under such circumstances is trading with the talent within the meaning of this parable.
THE ACCOUNTING
"“After a long time the lord of those servants cometh and reckoneth with them.” This shows that the accounting takes place after the second appearing of the Lord and during the time of his harvest. Other Scriptures clearly indicate that this particular accounting takes place on a larger scale after the Lord comes to his temple. Hence we should expect that after that time the Lord would permit his people in the temple condition to have a clearer understanding of the meaning of the parable. The words of the Master indicate his presence some time before the reckoning takes place.
"The one to whom were committed five talents comes forward and reports that he has gained other five talents. We paraphrase the report: “Lord, you committed to me certain interests of your kingdom. You gave me a measure of your spirit. I have joyfully submitted to your holy will, and you have increased my spirit and loving devotion to you; and by reason of your goodness I have availed myself of these opportunities that have come to me; as a result of having your kingdom interests committed to me and of my loving devotion to you, I have thereby had opportunity to prove my loyalty and devotion to you. I have therefore increased my capacity, I have more of your spirit, and your kingdom interests have increased toward me a hundredfold.”
"The Lord commends him, not because of what he has gained (because he brings no profit to the Lord—Luke 17:10), but because by reason of joyful obedience he has proven his faithfulness and loyalty. “Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will [future] make thee ruler over many things; enter [now] thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Verse 21) It will be observed here that the reward of rulership is future, which is granted to the saints beyond the vail; while a joy is now granted. What joy? The tremendous joy in the fact that one now knows that the Lord is setting up his kingdom and that he, the servant, has a part in making this known to mankind as the only panacea for the ills of man; joy in knowing that the day of deliverance is at hand, that the church will soon enter into fulness of joy and the world be relieved of its great burden. Those out of harmony with the Lord’s way do not have such joy.
"Similar report is made by the one to whom were committed two talents: and the Lord likewise commended him for his faithfulness and loyalty, saying, “I will [future] make thee ruler over many things; enter [now] thou into the joy of thy lord.”
"Then comes the one who had received the one talent, to make his report. It is quite manifest that there was no joy in his heart, nor did the Lord invite him to enter into any joy. He reports that he knew the Lord was a hard master, and that he was afraid and went and hid his talent in the earth, and that now he returned it. The Lord replies to him: “Thou wicked and slothful servant.” Wicked means those who have once been enlightened and then turned away, not having availed themselves of the privileges and joys of serving the Lord; slothful means one to whom something has been committed to do and perform and who has gone to sleep and done nothing. This one had either hid the interests of the Lord’s kingdom in worldly things or else treated it with indifference, or else was serving self and looking to see how much glory and honor he might win to himself, which is of the earth and not of the spirit. Undoubtedly it will include those who have commercialized the truth, either for money or for the plaudits of men, that they may shine in the presence of others; or who, because of sensual, earthly, selfish propensities have found fault with and despised the Lord’s way, repudiated that, and insisted on doing things their own way, and have failed to learn obedience. Because of this unfaithfulness to the Lord, he says: “Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance ; but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness.” This would seem to indicate that because of unfaithfulness to the cause of the Lord the interests of the kingdom which had been committed to him and the measure of the spirit (indicating some humility) shall be taken away, and those interests committed to one who has a greater measure of the Lord’s spirit. And the one who has been thus unprofitable would lose interest in the truth and in the Lord’s proclamation of the truth.
4“It has been suggested that practically all of the Lord’s people are of the one talent class. We think that this is a wrong view. The parable shows that no one who has only one talent at the time of reckoning can be of the kingdom class. He must increase in the character likeness of the Lord; and doing so the Lord would increase to him greater interests of his kingdom and hence increase to him greater opportunities of service,
47This does not mean that the one who makes the greatest outward show of service to the Lord is the one that is the most highly honored in the kingdom. But the lesson that is clearly taught by the parable is this: That when one has committed to him the interests of the Lord’s kingdom, in proportion as he shows his loyal, faithful devotion to the Lord, by complete submission and obedience to the Lord, so shall be his position of honor and glory in the kingdom.
SUMMARY
4SIf, then, we believe that the Lord is present, conducting his harvest work and the setting up of his kingdom; if he chose Brother Russell as his “faithful and wise servant” and made him ruler or overseer of his goods; and if Brother Russell, acting under the Lord’s supervision, organized the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society as a vehicle or channel to carry on the proclamation of the message of his kingdom and the feeding of his sheep (thereby looking after the interests of his kingdom), then the conclusion must be that this is the Lord’s way. After a careful and prayerful review of all the facts in the light of the Scriptures, can any consecrated, anointed follower of Jesus say that this is not the Lord’s way? If this is not the Lord’s way, then what is the Lord’s way ? And if the Lord has any other way, that way should be made known, and that way all his followers should go.
48If the way here pointed out is the Lord’s way of carrying on his work, then fighting against it or repudiating it is fighting against or repudiating the Lord, because the way is not of man but of the Lord. We repeat, that failing or refusing to work (trade with talents) the Lord’s way is disloyalty to the Lord. No one can justly take any offense at these conclusions, because it is not arrogating to any man or men any superiority, but is giving all the glory and honor to the Lord, who carries out his purposes in his own good and orderly way.
SELF-EXAMINATION
’“Since the Lord spoke this parable shortly before entering Jerusalem, before his crucifixion, it is reasonable to expect that he would give a clearer understanding of it to his people shortly before the last members of his body enter into the heavenly Jerusalem. Seeing, then, that the Lord has come to his temple and is taking account with his servants, may it not be that he is permitting them to have a little better understanding of the privileges of service just before the end in order to afford further opportunities to prove their loyalty to him? If upon examination we find that we have been just a little lax in showing forth his praises, that we have slacked somewhat our hands in his service, this will be the opportunity for redeeming the time. All of us recognize that we are in the “evil day,” when Satan and all of his forces are pressing hard in battle against the army of the Lord. It is no time now for slothfulness, idleness, indifference, or slacking the hand. What shall we do?
51St. Paul answers: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15,16) The alluring and seductive influences about the child of God are many, tending to draw him away from the service and to cause him to spend time unprofitably. To redeem the time means to buy back or out from this evil time; to see to it that we give all the time possible to the service of the Lord in looking after the interests of his kingdom. Jesus himself was fervent in spirit. The kingdom was uppermost in his mind and heart, because it is God’s way for the blessing of mankind. His faithful followers likewise must be fervent in spirit, and the kingdom and its interests must be uppermost in the mind and heart of each one. The work is not all done. There is much yet to do, and many are the opportunities.
ENTER THE SERVICE
S2Those who have been somewhat slack in their fervent devotion to the Lord and his cause should now awake and arise to the importance of the hour, and the Lord will give a clearer and better appreciation of the privileges. (Ephesians 5:14) Great is the field; numerous the opportunities I Buy back, redeem, the time by giving a little more of your time and energy to the Lord’s work. Look veil to your affairs and see if it is possible for you to enter the colporteur work: and if so, do it quickly.
52The publications of the Society contain the message of the kingdom. This message is good news to the world. Il is the will of the Lord that the message shall go to the people. (Matthew 24: 14) The Lord has graciously arranged that the books containing this message may now be sold at a greatly reduced price. The importance of getting the message into the hands of the people quickly is the inducement for the Society to sell at less than cost a large number of books already manufactured; and with the manufacturing plant which the Lord has provided other books will be made cheaper than they have been in the past, because consecrated hands are doing the work.
54Are you doing your part? If you are energetic you can easily make your expenses. Are you looking well to the interests of the King and his kingdom? Are you doing what you can to prove your loyalty to him?
65Today the members of the church this side the vail are, figuratively speaking, standing on Pisgah’s mountain, watching the kingdom majestically taking its place in the great plan of God. The King has begun his reign. Many of the faithful ones are already with the Lord. The few remaining ones this side are having their account taken. As they prove loyal they are entering into the present joys of the King. To advertise to the world the King and his kingdom is a great joy, because the kingdom is the means of solution of all the problems that now perplex mankind. It means bringing to suffering humanity peace, rest, life, liberty and happiness.
5CNineteen centuries ago the angel of Jehovah said: “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” And a multitude of the heavenly host then sang: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:10,14) The faithful servants of the King of kings, who are now doing loyal service unto their Lord, are beginning the fulfilment of what the angel there foretold. (Isaiah 52:7) And what joy it brings to the hearts of those who are so doing!
QUESTIONS FOR BEREAN STUDY
Is one offended when he is corrected of the Lord? If so, why? 11. Is it possible to measure our love for the Lord? J 1.
What does it mean to be loyal to the Lord? J 2.
In what way does the Lord’s arrangement harmonize with his plan? 3.
How should we differentiate between the individual and an organization? fl 3.
With what doctrine does the plan of God harmonize? f 4.
What three important things was Jesus to do immediately after his second coming ? 11 5.
What have the physical facts to do with this threefold work? f 6.
Which is greater: the office, or the Individual who fills the office? J 7.
Did Brother Russell faithfully fill the office of special servant? J 8.
What were the responsibilities of the servant selected ? J9.
Is there anything strange about the Lord using one person to deliver his message? II10.
What did Brother Russell do under the supervision of the Lord?
What was the underlying motive in organizing the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society ? fl 12.
Why was Brother Russell so prominent as “that servant”? J 13.
Is it reasonable to conclude that the “office” has been abolished simply because Brother Russell is no longer visibly present? J 14.
Did the Lord stop all efforts to spread his truth when Brother Russell died? 05.
If not, what organization is the Lord manifestly using? fl 15.
What is the meaning of “Society” as applied to consecrated Christians? Are its officers the Society? If not, what are they? il 16. Would the Lord cast off an organization should some of the individuals therein make mistakes? 116.
How can the Lord’s people cooperate to the best advantage In carrying on the King’s business ? J 17.
How can a corporate body act as an individual and fill the office of steward? 118. ■
Should the Society as a channel of service be considered Infallible? fl 19.
What specific reasons are there for believing that the parable of the talents should now be more clearly understood than formerly? flfl 20, 21.
What seems to be the logical connection in Jesus’ statements in re the signs of his second presence, the wise and faithful servant, the parable of the ten virgins, and this being followed by the parable of the talents? J 21.
Who is the "man” that went into a far country? I 22.
A special point of difference in the two parables is what? HU 23, 24.
It Is important to know to whom the “pounds” and “talents” belonged. To whom ? fl 25.
What is meant by “several ability”? What is the viewpoint? flfl 26,27.
What did Jesus’ ability consist of? How was it expressed by him? fl 28.
What is meant by the word “able” in the phrase: “We are able,” and what is its full meaning? flfl 29. 30.
This willingness of heart brought forth what assurance? J 31.
What is the correct definition of “several ability”? How can one’s ability and capacity increase? J 32.
What does it mean to have the spirit of Christ? and what does it not mean? 1J 33.
What is the Lord doing now with the members of the body of Christ? J 34.
Why is it of vital importance joyfully to obey the Lord’s will? J 34.
In what way did Brother Russell have real ability in the Lord’s sight? J 35.
Did the Lord deliver to “that servant” all His goods, or did He > lake him ruler over all His goods? fl 36.
What is meant by "his goods”? and what was done with them? H 3G.
Were kingdom interests committed to other servants? J 37.
How was the loyalty of the true fellow servants demonstrated? H 38.
What two things united result in opportunities for service? fl 39.
“Trading with the talents” means what? How were the talents Increased ? fl 39.
Give an Illustration, fl 40.
When does the accounting take place? Should we expect it now? 1141-
Paraphrasing, how did Brother Russell report? J 42.
For what did the Lord commend him? fl 43.
When is the rulership ? and what is the joy referred to ? fl 43.
How were those who had committed unto them two talents commended ? 11 44.
Tell us about the one who has no joy in the kingdom interests. U 45.
In what ways may the talent be hid in the earth ? fl 45.
What is indicated by being cast into outer darkness ? fl 45.
Are any of the Lord’s faithful servants of the one talent class? fl 46.
What is the lesson taught by the parable? II 47.
Why, then, did the Lord supervise in the organization of the Society? fl 48.
What are those doing who refuse to cooperate with the Lord’s arrangement? fl 49.
Is it not just like the Lord to further test and prove his people daily ‘I II 50.
If we have been lax in letting our light shine, what should we do? 1150.
What is meant by "redeeming the time” and by being “fervent in spirit”? fl51.
What is the most desirable field of activity? flfl 52. 53, 54.
Figuratively speaking, where is the church standing today? fl 55.
How is the proclamation of the kingdom beginning the fulfilment of the angels’ song? fl 56.
“In a napkin smooth and white, Hidden from all mortal sight, My one talent lies tonight.
Mine to hoard, or mine to use, Mine to keep, or mine to lose; May I not do what I choose?
MY ONE TALENT
“Ah! the gift was only lent, With the Giver’s known intent That it should be wisely spent. And I know he will demand Every farthing at my hand, When I in his presence stand.”
PRAYER MEETING
TEXT FOR MARCH 21
"'When ... the spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth."—John 16:15.
HIS promise of the Lord was fulfilled to the apostles at Pentecost, when the holy spirit was given to them. Then they were enabled, by reason of receiving the holy spirit, to understand the many dark sayings Jesus had uttered to them during the three and a half years that they had walked with him personally. The apostles, being then led by the spirit into the full truth of God’s plan, under inspiration wrote epistles for the benefit of others who have since come into the family of God through consecration, justification, spiritbegetting, and spirit-anointing.
The spirit of the Lord is in his Word, written by his holy representatives; and he who possesses the holy spirit may claim this promise to himself: namely, that the Lord will continue to guide him in the truth as he abides in Christ and the spirit of Christ abides in him. The Lord has fulfilled, and continues to fulfil, this promise to all the members of the body who walk humbly and obediently before him. In his own due time he provides the understanding of his Word, and the members of his body rejoice in the ever-increasing light which he causes to shine upon his Word.
Understanding the Word of God, the members of the church are enabled to see the will of God and, by his grace, to render themselves in obedience to that will : and so doing, are gradually transformed from one degre--of glory to another, even by the spirit of the Lord Jesus.
The word of truth as a guide in spiritual matters must be illuminated by the spirit of our God. The mere word does not sanctify: it is the meaning that that word is intended to convey. The purification of heart and mind is done by the truth; thus the transforming process continues, bringing the loyal disciple nearer and nearer into the likeness of his Lord and Master.
“Holy Spirit, faithful guide, Ever near the Christian’s side, Gently lead us by the hand, Pilgrims in a desert land.
Weary souls for aye rejoice, While they hear that sweetest voice, Whisp'ring softly. Traveler, come;
Follow me, I’ll guide thee home.”
TEXT COMMENTS
TEXT FOR MARCH 28
“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wi'<i1'<m.”—■ Ephesians 1:17.
WISDOM means the application of knowledge in harmony with the divine rules of action, and deporting oneself in harmony with such rules. It means the use of knowledge in such a manner that good results to himself and to others. According to the divine standard, worldly persons are not wise. No one learns true wisdom except those who have committed themselves to the Lord and have received the spirit of the Lord. “The reverence of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”
The new creature in Christ has an honest and sincere desire to know and to do God’s will. St. Paul's prayer, as expressed in this text, was that those who had received the spirit of the Lord by being begotten and anointed of the holy spirit now might receive from God the spirit of wisdom. This is one of the means of transformation. A complete heart obedience to the will of God, with an honest endeavor to do God’s holy will, is a manifestation of the spirit of wisdom. Persevering in this course, the spirit of wisdom increases, thereby enabling the Christian actively to cooperate with God in working out his salvation. The spirit of wisdom will cause such a one to diligently seek opportunity of serving the Lord, that he might thereby prove to be a faithful and true witness in behalf of the Lord’s cause and to prepare himself for the kingdom of glory.
It is our privilege, then, to pray that our brethren may have the spirit of wisdom, and to aid them, when opportunity arises, to develop this spirit. Having the spirit or disposition to become wise after the manner of the Lord, we should pray for wisdom, asking in confidence that the Lord will reward us. (James 1: 5, 6) The more we develop in wisdom, the more we will heed the admonition of the Lord to trust in him with all our heart and acknowledge him in all our ways. Doing this, we shall experience the blessing of being directed in the way that we should go. The spirit of wisdom will lead one to realize that his hope of life lies in the fact that as a new creature he strives to do the will of God, having always a pure heart toward God and all of the Lord’s ways.
PRAYING FOR OPPORTUNITIES
Dear Brethren :
I have always had a great desire to be able to help tell the glad tidings, and I prayed the dear Father to give me some opportunities to do so, but having a business that required nearly all my time, it just seemed that I could hardly ever find any one to talk to. But one day I received a little sticker on which was printed “Millions Now Living Will Never Die,” and I pasted it on my office door in such a way that anyone on coming into the office would have to jead it. Then my opportunities to talk came thick and fast and made it possible for me to sell q ie a few books. One man on leaving the office said,“This has been the best half hour I have spent in years and I can never thank you for the good you have done me.” So you see that the dear Father answered my prayer.
Never a day goes by but that we have you in our mind and pray the dear Father to guide and bless you. With much Christian love to all of you,
Your brother in the service of our Lord,
C. L. Knowixs—ArkamMut
T4
JESUS IN GETHSEMANE
---March 11---Luke 22---
THE PERFECT CALM OF JESUS—THE AGONY OF GETHSEMANE—“BETURN UNTO THY BEST, O MY SOUL”-JESUS CRUELLY TREATED
BY THE PRIESTS—FAITH AND FULL CONSECRATION THE SECRET OF HIS VICTORY.
“Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God."—1 Peter 3:18, R.V.
OUR Golden Text draws attention to the suffering of Jesus, the righteous for the unrighteous, though it has no reference to the sufferings of our Lord in the garden of Gethsemane, which give the title to today’s study. Gethsemane, and Jesus in an agony of suffering, are forever associated; but the sufferings our Master bore there were not for sins. Ue suffered there that he might prove himself an overcomer, and in order that he might complete the work his Father had given him to do. These were part of the experiences laid upon him that he might ba perfected. —Hebrews 5 : 8,9.
2'The last day of our Lord’s earthly ministry was spent with his disciples. It is probable that he spent the forenoon of that day, Thursday, in giving them that instruction and warning which is detailed in Matthew 24 and 25. The afternoon was probably spent quietly in meditation. As the day wore on, two of the disciples went to Jesus to ask him where they should make ready the Passover, that they might eat it together; for though they -were a large company, and the city was crowded with visitors, apparently no provision had been made. Jesus sent Peter and John, telling them how they should be directed to the place where he would eat the Passover with them. They went and made ready.
3Sometime during those days, perhaps after Jesus had concluded his ministry in the temple on the late afternoon of the previous day, Judas finally succumbed to the evil of his heart and to Satan, who was urging him on, and whom lie allowed to enter into him. He went out from the little company to the enemies of Jesus to arrange for them to seize his Master. The chief priests and captains were delighted with this turn of affairs; and they agreed to pay him, he making a bargain for thirty pieces of silver. He was to seek for a suitable opportunity when the dastardly act could be done apart from the crowd; for these men as yet feared the people. As the hour drew nigh when the Passover should be eaten, Jesus went into the city with the Twelve.
THE PERFECT CALM OF JESUS
♦When they were reclining at the table, he told them of the great desire he had had to share that meal and the occasion with them. He knew that it was his last Passover, and that it meant much to him and to them; and he had so much yet to say to them. He knew, too, that the hand of the betrayer was on the table with him; but neither that knowledge, nor the fact that within a few hours his enemies would seize him, disturbed him. Carefully, point by point, he gave forth those truths which have meant so much to his church. The highest and greatest and best he had to give were given out under the stress of the greatest trial, and when the darkest clouds were looming over him. First there was the true meaning of the Passover to make clear, and the Memorial of his death to give to the church in the symbols of bread and wine; and to show how he and his disciples were to be one loaf, he and they to be broken in order to bear the sufferings of God’s Anointed. Then the New Covenant blood, symbolized by the cup, was introduced, to show that he and they should share together in the blood which ratifies it, that its blessings may come to the house of Israel and to the world.
’Apparently it was as soon as supper was over, and before they had risen from the table, that Judas, having received the sop from the Lord, was seized by Satan. Both he and his Master understood; and Jesus said unto him; “That thou doest, do quickly.” Before this, but while they were at the table, Jesus had gone round to each of his disciples, washing their feet as Mary at Bethany had gone to him as he reclined at the table, she washing Ids feet with her tears, and wiping them with her hair. The Lord was giving his disciples a lesson in humility, and the need of it in their service for each other. After Judas had gone he proceeded to tell them that the time had come when he, the Son of man, should be glorified, and God be glorified in him. Then he urged them to have love one for another, such as he had for them, and said: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.”—John 13: 31-35.
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