The Watchtower, January 1, 1996
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THE
JANUARY 1, 1996
WATCHTOWER
ANNOUNCING JEHOVAH'S KINGDOM
Finding Peace in a Troubled World THE WATCHTOWER
ANNOUNCING JEHOVAH'S KINGDOM
THE PURPOSE OF THE WATCHTOWER is to exalt Jehovah God as Sovereign Lord of the universe. It keeps watch on world events as these fulfill Bible prophecy. It comforts all peoples with the good news that God's Kingdom will soon destroy those who oppress their fellowmen and that it will turn the earth into a paradise. It encourages faith in God's now-reigning King, Jesus Christ,
whose shed blood opens the way for mankind to gain eternal life. The wacontober, published by Jehovah's Witnesses continuously since 1879, is nonpolitical. It adheres to the Bible as its authority.
IN THIS ISSUE
3 Is Peace Possible?
24 Jehovah Never Abandoned Us
4 They Found Peace in a World in Turmoil
29 “Handling the Word of the Truth Aright”
8 Jehovah Gives Peace and Truth in Abundance
Background cover and page 32. Reuters/BettmannWATCHTOWER STUDIES
17 "Love Truth and Peace"!
23 Kingdom Proclaimers Report
FEBRUARY 5-11: Jehovah Gives Peace and Truth in Abundance. Page 8. Songs to be used: 166, 136.
FEBRUARY 12-18: "Love Truth and Peace" | Page 17.
Songs to be used: 53, 220.
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IS PEACE POSSIBLE?
THERE will always be a war somewhere. That's the sad truth about mankind." This pessimistic view recently appeared in a letter from a reader in the magazine Newsweek. Do you agree with it? Is war inevitable and peace impossible? If history is any measure of the matter, it is difficult not to answer yes to both of these questions. As long as records have been kept, mankind has been embroiled in one war after another, and conflicts became more and more destructive as men developed more efficient ways of killing one another.
The 20th century has been no exception. Indeed, it has witnessed the bloodiest wars ever, but it has also witnessed something new. Fifty years ago the United States ushered in the nuclear age by dropping two atom bombs on Japan. In the five decades since then, the nations have built up massive stockpiles of nuclear weapons that could destroy humanity many times over. Will the existence of nuclear weaponry finally scare men off from waging war? The facts speak for themselves. Since 1945 many millions have died in wars—although as yet no nuclear bombs have been dropped.
Why is the human race so warlike? The Encyclopedia Americana mentions some aspects of human society that historically have led to war. They include religious intolerance, racism, cultural differences, differing ideologies (such as Communism and capitalism), nationalism and the doctrine of national sovereignty, economic conditions, and a popular acceptance of militarism.
When you read that list, do you see anything that is likely to change in the near future? Will the nations be less determined to preserve their sovereignty? Will men become less racist? Will religious fundamentalists be less fanatical? This is very unlikely.
Is there no hope at all, then, that some day things will be better and there will be lasting peace? Yes, there is hope. Despite the turmoil of this world, it is possible even today to find peace. Millions have done so. Let us tell you about a few of these people and see what their experiences can mean for you.
THEY FOUND PEACE IN A WORLD IN TURMOIL
THE cover of this magazine depicts a fiery battle scene from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Can peace exist in such a place? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. While Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Muslim communities in that tragic land fight for territory, many individuals long for peace, and some have found it.
The Djorems were residents of Sarajevo, and they were Jehovah's Witnesses. In the midst of all the turmoil in that city, they habitually visited their neighbors to share with them the good news of God's Kingdom. (Matthew 24:14) Why? Because the Djorem family knew that this Kingdom is real, that it is already established in the heavens, and that it is mankind's best and only hope for peace. Jehovah's Witnesses have complete confidence in what the apostle Paul called "the good news of peace." (Ephesians 2:17) Thanks to people like Bozo and Hena Djorem, many are finding peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
who gained confidence in God's Kingdom. Their names are Artur and Arina. They and their young sons used to live in a republic in the territory of the former Soviet Union. When civil war broke out, Artur fought for one of the sides. Soon, though, he asked himself, 'Why am I fighting against these people who used to be my neighbors?' He left the country and, after many difficulties, arrived with his young family in Estonia.
There is more to say about the Djorems. First, though, let us talk of another couple
On a visit to St. Petersburg, Artur met Jehovah's Witnesses and was impressed by what he learned about God's Kingdom. Jehovah's will is that very soon God's Kingdom will be the only rulership over mankind. (Daniel 2:44) Then the earth will be a peaceful place, with no more civil wars or international conflicts. Isaiah prophesied about that time: "They will not do any harm or cause any ruin in all my holy mountain; because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea."—Isaiah 11:9.
Noting the artist's impression of that future peaceful earth in a Bible study aid that a Witness showed him, Artur remarked that he used to live in a place that looked like that.
Now, though, it was being ruined by civil war. Back in Estonia, Artur and his family are learning more about God's Kingdom through a Bible study with Jehovah's Witnesses.
Peace Amid Turmoil
Psalm 37:37 says: "Watch the blameless one and keep the upright one in sight, for
ble's counsel: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God." As a result, they have a contentment that is rare today. The apostle Paul's words to the Philippian congregation apply to them: "The peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." Indeed, they feel
the future of that man will be peaceful." In fact, the peace of one who is blameless and upright in God's eyes is not limited to his future. He enjoys it right now. How is that possible? Consider the experience of a man named Paul.
Paul lives in a remote refugee camp in southwest Ethiopia, although he actually comes from a neighboring country. In his homeland, he met one of Jehovah's Witnesses who worked for an oil company, and this man gave him a Bible study aid, The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life.* Paul
a close relationship with Jehovah, "the God of peace."—Philippians 4:6, 7, 9.
A Present Peace
The enthroned King of God's Kingdom is Jesus Christ, called in the Bible the "Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6) Of him the ancient prophet said: "He will actually speak peace to the nations; and his rulership will be from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth." (Zechariah 9:10) Inspired words such as these had a profound effect on the life of a man named José.
At one time José was in prison. He was a
never met the Witness again, but he studied the book carefully. Civil war drove him to a refugee camp in Ethiopia, and there he spoke to others about what he had learned. A small group came to accept this as the truth. Based on what they had learned, they were soon preaching to others in the camp.
Paul wrote to the Watch Tower Society's headquarters asking for help. A minister sent from Addis Ababa was astonished to find 35 people waiting for him, ready to learn more about God's Kingdom. Arrangements were made for help to be given on a regular basis.
terrorist and had been arrested while making preparations to blow up a police barracks. He thought that only violence would force the government to improve conditions in his country. While he was in prison, Jehovah's Witnesses began to study the Bible with his wife.
In Our Next Issue
Joyful in a Joyless World
How can it be said that people like Paul enjoy peace? Their lives are not easy, but they have faith in God. When affected by the turmoil of this world, they apply the Bi-
Mankind Needs the Knowledge of God
Comfort and Encouragement —Gems of Many Facets After José was released, he too studied the Bible, and soon the words of Psalm 85:8 began to apply to him: "I will hear what the true God Jehovah will speak, for he will speak peace to his people and to his loyal ones."
However, that verse concludes with a warning: "Let them not return to self-confidence." Hence, one who seeks Jehovah's peace will not presume to act independently or in opposition to His will.
Today, José and his wife are Christian ministers. They direct others to Jehovah's Kingdom as the solution to problems that José formerly tried to solve with homemade bombs. They are willing to trust the Bible, which says: "Jehovah, for his part, will give what is good." (Psalm 85:12) Indeed, José recently visited the barracks he had been planning to destroy. Why? In order to speak to the families there about God's Kingdom.
Peaceful People
At Psalm 37:10, 11, the Bible says: "Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more; and you will certainly give attention to his place, and he will not be. But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." What a glorious prospect!
Notice, though, that Jehovah's peace is only for "the meek ones." Those who seek peace may have to learn to be peaceful. This was the case with Keith, who lives in New Zealand. Keith was described as "powerful in build and personality, aggressive, and argumentative." He was a member of a gang and lived in a house that was a veritable fortress, with gardens patrolled by three guard dogs to keep out intruders. His wife, the mother of his six children, had divorced him.
When Keith met Jehovah's Witnesses, the good news had a profound effect on
him. Soon he and his children were attending meetings with the Witnesses. He cut his waist-long hair and began speaking about God's Kingdom to his former associates. Some of these also began studying the Bible.
Like millions of righthearted ones around the world, Keith had begun to apply the words of the apostle Peter: "He that would love life and see good days, . . . let him turn away from what is bad and do what is good; let him seek peace and pursue it." (1 Peter 3:10, 11) Keith's former wife consented to remarry him, and he is now learning to "seek peace and pursue it."
Jehovah's peace has been a lifesaver for many, including a one-time athlete born in the former U.S.S.R. This man won medals in Olympic competition, but he became disillusioned and turned to drugs and alcohol. After an eventful 19 years that included a three-year sentence to a labor camp in Siberia, a journey by ship as a stowaway to Canada, and two near-deaths because of his drug habit, he prayed to God for help to find a genuine purpose in life. A Bible study with Russian-speaking Witnesses of Jehovah helped him to find the answer to his questions. Today this man, like millions of others, has found peace with God and with himself.
The Resurrection Hope
Finally, let us return to Bozo and Hena Djorem in Sarajevo. This couple had a five-year-old daughter, Magdalena. Last July, the three of them were leaving home to engage once again in their preaching activity when all of them were killed by an exploding shell. What about the peace that they preached about to others? Did the shell that took their lives show that this was not a real peace?
By no means! In this system of things, tragedies happen. People are killed by
They have found peace despite living in a world in turmoil
bombs or shells. Others die of sickness or in accidents. Many die of old age. Those who enjoy God's peace are not immune, but the possibility of such events does not leave them without hope.
Jesus promised his friend Martha: "I am the resurrection and the life. He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) The Djorems believed this, as do all of Jehovah's Witnesses. And the Djorems had faith that if they were to die, they would be resurrected to
an earth that then would be a truly peaceful place. Jehovah God "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 21:4.
Just before he died, Jesus said to his followers: "I give you my peace. . . . Do not let your hearts be troubled." (John 14:27) We rejoice with the Djorems who had that peace and who will surely enjoy it more fully in the resurrection. We are happy for all those who worship Jehovah, the God of peace. Such ones have peace of mind. They enjoy peace with God. They cultivate peace with others. And they have confidence in a peaceful future. Yes, they have found peace, although they live in a world in turmoil. Indeed, all who worship God with spirit and truth enjoy peace. May you too find such peace.
JEHOVAH GIVES PEACE AND TRUTH IN ABUNDANCE
"I will heal them and reveal to them an abundance of peace and truth."—JEREMIAH 33:6.
PEACE! How desirable that is, yet how rare it has been in human history! The 20th century, especially, has not been a century of peace. Rather, it has seen the two most destructive wars in human history. After the first world war, the League of Nations was set up to maintain world peace. That organization failed. After the second world war, the United Nations organization was established with the same goal. We need only read the daily newspapers to see how utterly it too is failing.
2. (a) As to peace, what is the record of the nations? (b) In 607 B.C.E., what lesson did Jehovah teach Israel about peace?
2 Should we be surprised that human organizations cannot bring peace? Not at all. More than 2,500 years ago, God's chosen people, Israel, were taught a lesson in this regard. In the seventh century B.C.E., Israel's peace was threatened by the ascendant world power, Babylon. Israel looked to Egypt for peace. Egypt failed. (Jeremiah 37: 5-8; Ezekiel 17:11-15) In 607 B.C.E., Babylo-
nian armies tore down the walls of Jerusalem and burned Jehovah's temple.
Thus Israel learned the hard way the futility of relying on human organizations. Instead of enjoying peace, the nation was dragged off into exile in Babylon.—2 Chronicles 36: 17-21.
3Before the fall of Jerusalem, however, Jehovah had revealed that he, not Egypt, would bring real peace to Israel. Through Jeremiah he promised: "I will heal them and reveal to them an abundance of peace and truth. And I will bring back the captives of Judah and the captives of Israel, and I will build them just as at the start." (Jeremiah 33:6, 7) Jehovah's promise began to be fulfilled in 539 B.C.E. when Babylon was conquered and freedom was offered to the Israelite exiles. (2 Chronicles 36:22, 23) By the
latter part of 537 B.C.E., a group of Israelites celebrated the Festival of Booths on the soil of Israel for the first time in 70 years! After the festival, they set out to rebuild Jehovah's temple. How did they feel about this? The record says: "They shouted with a loud shout in praising Jehovah over the laying of the foundation of the house of Jehovah."—Ezra 3:11.
4 After that happy beginning, though, the Israelites were discouraged by opposers and stopped the work of temple building. Some years later, Jehovah raised up the prophets Haggai and Zechariah to rouse the Israelites to complete the rebuilding work. How thrilling it must have been for them to hear Haggai say regarding the temple that would be built: "Greater will the glory of this later house become than that of the former,' Jehovah of armies has said. 'And in this place I shall give peace'!"—Haggai 2:9.
Jehovah Fulfills His Promises
5 In the Bible book of Zechariah, we read of numerous inspired visions and prophecies that strengthened God's people back in the sixth century B.C.E. These same prophecies continue to assure us of Jehovah's support. They give us every reason to believe that Jehovah will give his people peace in our day too. For example, in the eighth chapter of the book that bears his name, the prophet Zechariah ten times utters the words: 'This is what Jehovah has said.' Each time, the expression introduces a divine pronouncement having to do with the peace of God's people. Some of these promises were fulfilled back in Zechariah's day. All have been fulfilled or are in the process of being fulfilled today.
How did Jehovah rouse the Israelites to do the work of temple building, and what promise did he make about peace?
What is noteworthy about the eighth chapter of Zechariah?
"I Will Be Jealous for Zion"
The expression occurs first at Zechariah 8:2, where we read: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'I will be jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and with great rage I will be jealous for her.'" Jehovah's promise to be jealous, to have great zeal, for his people meant that he would be vigilant in restoring their peace. The restoration of Israel to her land and the rebuilding of the temple were evidence of that zeal.
7 What, though, of those who had opposed Jehovah's people? His zeal for his people would be equaled by his "great rage" upon these enemies. When faithful Jews worshiped at the rebuilt temple, they would be able to reflect on the fate of mighty Babylon, now fallen. They could also think of the utter failure of the enemies who had tried to prevent the rebuilding of the temple. (Ezra 4:1-6; 6:3) And they could thank Jehovah that he had fulfilled his promise. His zeal brought them a triumph!
"The City of Trueness"
8 A second time Zechariah writes: "This is what Jehovah has said." What are Jehovah's words on this occasion? "I will return to Zion and reside in the midst of Jerusalem; and Jerusalem will certainly be called the city of trueness, and the mountain of Jehovah of armies, the holy mountain." (Zechariah 8:3) Before 607 B.C.E., Jerusalem was in no way a city of trueness. Her priests and prophets were corrupt, and her people were unfaithful. (Jeremiah 6:13; 7:29-34; 13:23-27) Now God's people were rebuilding the temple, showing their commitment to
pure worship. In spirit Jehovah dwelt once again in Jerusalem. The truths of pure worship were again spoken in her, so Jerusalem could be called "the city of trueness." Her lofty location could be called "the mountain of Jehovah."
9 While these two pronouncements were meaningful to ancient Israel, they also have much meaning for us as the 20th century draws to a close. Almost 80 years ago, during the first world war, the few thousand anointed ones who then represented "the Israel of God" went into spiritual captivity, just as ancient Israel had gone into captivity in Babylon. (Galatians 6:16) Prophetically, they were described as corpses lying in the street. Still, they had a sincere desire to worship Jehovah "with spirit and truth." (John 4:24) Hence, in 1919, Jehovah turned back their captivity, raising them from their spiritually dead condition. (Revelation 11:7-13) Jehovah thus answered with a resounding Yes Isaiah's prophetic question: "Will a land be brought forth with labor pains in one day? Or will a nation be born at one time?" (Isaiah 66:8) In 1919, Jehovah's people once again existed as a spiritual nation in their own "land," or spiritual estate on earth.
10 Safe in that land, anointed Christians served in Jehovah's great spiritual temple. They were designated as "the faithful and discreet slave," accepting the responsibility of caring for Jesus' earthly belongings, a privilege that they still enjoy as the 20th century nears its conclusion. (Matthew 24:45-47) They learned well the lesson that Jehovah is "the very God of peace." —1 Thessalonians 5:23.
11 What, though, of the enemies of the Israel of God? Jehovah's zeal for his people is matched by his rage against the opposers. During the first world war, the religious leaders of Christendom brought enormous pressure to bear as they tried—and failed—to stamp out this small group of truth-speaking Christians. During the second world war, Christendom's ministers were united in only one thing: On both sides of the conflict, they urged governments to suppress Jehovah's Witnesses. Even today, in many lands religious leaders are inciting governments to restrict or ban the Christian preaching work of Jehovah's Witnesses.
12 This has not gone unnoticed by Jehovah. After the first world war, Christendom, along with the rest of Babylon the Great, experienced a fall. (Revelation 14:8) The reality of Christendom's fall became public knowledge when, starting in 1922, a series of symbolic plagues were poured out, publicly exposing her spiritually dead condition and warning of her coming destruction. (Revelation 8:7-9:21) As evidence that the pouring out of these plagues continues, the talk "False Religion's End Is Near" was delivered worldwide on April 23, 1995, followed by the distribution of hundreds of millions of copies of a special issue of Kingdom News.
13 Today, Christendom is in a pitiable state. Throughout the 20th century, her members have killed one another in vicious wars blessed by her priests and ministers. In some lands her influence is virtually nil. She is destined for destruction along with the rest of Babylon the Great.—Revelation 18:21.
How have religious leaders of Christendom shown themselves to be enemies of God's people?
Peace for Jehovah's People
14 On the other hand, in this year 1996, Jehovah's people enjoy abundant peace in their restored land, as described in Jehovah's third pronouncement: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'There will yet sit old men and old women in the public squares of Jerusalem, each one also with his staff in his hand because of the abundance of his days. And the public squares of the city themselves will be filled with boys and girls playing in her public squares.'" —Zechariah 8:4, 5.
13. How is Jehovah's rage expressed against Christendom?
15 This delightful word picture portrays something remarkable in this war-torn world—a people at peace. Since 1919, Isaiah's prophetic words have been fulfilled: "Continuous peace there will be to the one that is far away and to the one that is near,' Jehovah has said, 'and I will heal him. But . . . there is no peace,' my God has said, 'for the wicked ones.'" (Isaiah 57:19-21) Of course, Jehovah's people, while no part of the world, cannot avoid being affected by the tumult of the nations. (John 17:15, 16) In some lands, they endure severe difficulties, and a few have even been killed. Yet, real Christians have peace in two principal ways. First, they have "peace with God through [their] Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:1) Second, they have peace among themselves. They cultivate "the wisdom from above," which is "first of all chaste, then peaceable." (James 3:17; Galatians 5:22-24) Moreover, they look forward to enjoying peace in the most complete sense when "the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." —Psalm 37:11.
What prophetic word picture is given of a people at peace?
Despite the wars of the nations, what peace has been enjoyed by Jehovah's servants?
1995 SERVICE YEAR REPORT OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES WORLDWIDE
<tr><th>Country or Territory
Population
1995 Peak Pubs.
Ratio One Publisher to
1995 Av. Pubs.
% Incl. Over 1994
1994 Av. Pubs.
1995 No. Bptzd.
Av. Pio. Pubs.
No. of Congs.
Total Hours
Av. Bible Studies
Memorial Attendance
Alaska
643,697
2,358
2,146
2,122
369,557
1,026
4,619
Alabama
3,262,000
5,437
287,112
1,537
3,495
American Samoa
15,000
-1
50,811
Andorra
64,311
-5*
31,912
Angola
11,233,000
26,129
22,069
3,587
1,515
7,208,702
106,042
Anguilla
7,000
6,273
Antigua
65,962
76,006
1,056
Argentina
33,180,171
111,186
107,154
102,200
7,208
12,083
1,604
23,064,504
89,929
244,591
Aruba
80,257
75,424
1,901
Australia
17,938,500
61,106
59,474
57,780
2,866
5,786
12,005,347
29,276
110,870
Austria
8,039,865
20,944
20,598
20,302
1,716
3,985,992
10,847
34,770
Azores
239,659
111,698
1,323
Bahamas
254,685
1,389
1,306
1,287
306,807
1,634
3,677
Bangladesh
124,638,680
2,595,639
10,971
1,634
3,677
Bhudas
23,000
2,155
2,072
14,155
2,021
1,678
Belgium
17,113
22,001
Belgium
10,065,574
27,751
26,853
26,328
1,185
2,030
4,930,681
11,706
50,601
Belize
200,000
1,140
1,067
1,022
251,700
1,313
5,078
Benin
4,915,555
4,241
1,159
4,067
3,490
1,092,759
6,925
18,115
Bermuda
59,807
91,947
Bolivia
7,300,000
11,543
10,791
9,759
1,151
2,162
3,499,397
18,145
50,555
Boumire
13,438
9,532
Bosnia & Herzegovina
4,910,000
9,144
73,032
15,150
Botswana
1,522,528
1,662
195,761
1,149
2,445
Brazil
158,429,791
416,638
387,099
364,272
32,536
39,579
6,235
76,814,704
470,721
1,144,271
Brazilian
571,158,194
132,440
125,198
123,194
4,546
11,573
1,408
22,902,795
57,886
224,507
Brunei
288,000
9,828
4,221
Bulgaria
8,500,000
12,977
207,037
1,047
1,825
Burkina Faso
9,634,000
13,983
206,677
1,218
2,070
Burundi
6,400,000
1,575
4,063
1,571
1,403
497,191
3,278
4,741
Cambodia
10,400,000
800,000
10,456
Cameroon
13,500,531
24,242
22,918
20,301
2,005
1,654
4,400,890
25,926
76,807
Canada
29,380,000
112,960
109,168
10,664
4,249
11,043
1,366
1,841,381
47,460
190,697
Cape Verde
429,770
1,087
319,305
2,244
Cyanmala Islands
13,000
205,931
Cyanmala Arr. Rep.
3,480,076
1,924
1,809
1,875
1,758
514,029
11,361
13,861
Chad
6,288,261
14,324
142,287
2,387
Chad
14,921,098
50,283
471,755
3,340
6,746
11,885,188
59,943
148,947
Chukun
66,169
-2*
22,376
Colombia
32,871,983
75,033
67,577
61,494
7,877
9,269
16,978,918
15,073,073
296,214
Comoros
450,000
64,286
21,07
Congo
2,600,000
3,130
3,018
2,568
1075,701
11,138
14,351
Cook Islands
20,000
29,197
Costa Rica
3,010,211
17,082
15,053
13,977
1,163
1,683
3,277,822
18,035
43,738
Cote d'Ivoire
12,423,724
5,007
4,817
4,393
1542,964
9,641
18,826
Croatia
4,784,265
4,585
1,043
4,100
4,072
1,101,500
2,894
8,829
149,376
1,537
1,502
1,476
258,998
1,625
4,385
638,300
1,667
1,627
1,540
373,672
3,109
Czech Republic
10,330,000
16,777
16,192
15,972
1,028
2,640,154
11,047
32,483
Denmark
5,215,718
16,082
15,604
15,587
1,113
2,474,947
5,016
24,284
Dominica
71,764
81,886
1,153
Dominican Rep.
7,594,000
18,440
17,422
16,354
1,469
3,797
5,481,385
36,158
58,174
Ecuador
11,460,000
29,767
28,253
25,704
4,150
4,671
7,706,062
47,063
123,149
El Salvador
5,438,691
23,710
22,205
20,658
1,539
2,253
4,906,165
27,246
70,261
Equatorial Guinea
372,540
1,194
100,004
1,111
1,937
Estonia
1,491,583
2,705
2,496
1,996
764,007
4,454
8,041
Ethiopia
55,000,000
4,869
11,296
4,629
4,144
1,113
1,688,752
4,886
13,742
Islands
44,509
1*
14,283
Falkland Islands
2,150
1,199
Fiji
715,375
1,591
1,534
1,496
382,275
1,751
6,639
Finland
5,098,754
19,419
18,906
18,432
2,154
3,541,632
9,767
29,452
France
58,027,306
126,608
123,408
121,783
5,119
8,747
1,678
22,180,124
57,287
228,783
France Guiana
147,283
1,351
1,297
1,119
365,625
2,304
5,493
Gabon
1,014,000
1,511
1,389
1*
1,399
370,288
3,832
7,363
Gambia, The
1,110,000
19,474
21,121
Germany
81,538,231
170,346
165,746
163,327
6,018
10,771
2,013
28,702,089
87,854
287,321
Ghana
16,188,990
48,417
44,755
41,795
3,381
4,872
10,098,772
90,867
174,175
Gibraltar
27,107
-1*
17,252
Greece
10,259,646
26,754
159,933
3,129
5,191,054
10,259
44,842
Greece
55,732
46,203
Grenada
92,000
190,704
1,729
Guadeloupe
387,000
7,664
7,370
7,137
12,181,486
8,077
18,109
Guam
150,000
149,835
1,836
Guatemala
9,500,000
16,176
14,769
13,957
1,041
1,541
3,216,234
16,059
48,329
Guinea
6,560,000
9,591
244,347
1,286
3,540
Guinea-Bissau
1,102,400
27,560
25,782
Guyana
757,863
2,005
1,956
1,559
413,773
2,235
8,386
Haiti
6,000,000
10,018
9,435
8,820
1,136
1,384
2,526,853
15,820
54,531
Hawaii
1,178,600
7,539
7,287
7,107
1,273
1,928,222
5,767
17,440
Honduras
5,554,453
8,416
7,124
7,107
1,985,408
12,174
36,075
Hong Kong
6,000,000
16,904
3,740
3,180
1,146,949
8,426
19,464
Hungary
10,262,600
16,907
15,929
14,556
1,769
1,274
3,256,066
13,733
375,363
Iceland
266,783
51,852
India
959,350,140
15,414
62,239
14,948
13,686
1,330
1,815
3,265,359
13,105
39,338
Ireland
5,104,000
4,463
1,144
4,372
4,252
1,156,796
2,412
8,017
Israel
7,495,000
12,513
131,567
1,234
Italy
58,138,000
214,446
210,012
203,307
10,015
30,775
2,838
53,681,550
109,419
388,347
Jamaica
2,509,600
10,489
9,570
9,370
1,010
1,790,258
10,239
31,622
Japan
124,655,488
206,617
201,296
189,596
11,546
872,289
3,552
97,721,628
241,221
378,586
Kenya
26,500,000
10,037
2,640
9,163
8,136
1,068
1,691
3,086,480
14,855
29,924
Kiribati
78,084
1,014
17,542
Korea, Republic of
44,851,100
80,523
78,782
76,025
4,571
31,065
1,491
34,981,832
69,164
136,225
Kenya
568,071
Latvia
25,799
2,579
2,579
267,177
31,64
31,64
Lebanon
3,620,600
3,458
1,047
3,311
3,138
671,934
2,370
7,158
Lesotho
2,056,786
2,099
2,000
1,854
571,362
2,432
7,066
Liberia
2,500,000
1,422
1,758
1,308
1*
1,324
468,120
3,493
7,013
Libya
4,485,000
560,625
Liechtenstein
30,629
15,857
Lithuania
3,717,700
1,648
2,257
322,718
1,676
<tr><th>Country or Territory
Population
1995 Peak Pubs.
Ratio, One Publisher to:
1995 Av. Pubs.
% In Over 1994
1994 Av. Pubs.
1995 No. Bptzd.
Av. Pio. Pubs.
No. of Congs.
Total Hours
Av. Bible Studies
Memorial Attendance
Luxembourg
475,600
1,839
1,796
1,738
348,663
1,143
3,622
Macio
440,000
5,116
22,379
Macedonia
1,936,877
3,560
130,229
2,262
Madagascar
12,092,157
6,788
1,781
6,343
5,462
17,892,315
18,055
30,262
Madelaire
95,572
17,984,315
16,056
10,262
Mauritai
9,068,994
36,171
35,150
30,607
4,158
3,841
7,562,346
27,223
102,244
Malaysia
19,600,000
1,653
11,857
1,587
1,493
412,207
22,443
4,226
Mali
11,066,400
71,860
87,060
Malta
368,400
-1*
105,205
Marquessas Islands
8,700
10,835
Marshall Islands
48,872
50,881
1,079
Martinique
359,570
3,828
3,730
3,536
829,092
3,899
9,314
Mauritius
1,082,998
1,226
1,105
1,091
229,430
1,149
2,903
Mayotte
94,484
2,147
15,570
Mexico
91,600,000
443,640
422,283
388,623
33,077
53,841
10,320
95,827,479
569,842
1,492,976
Moldavia
4,587,000
10,031
9,320
7,720
1,399
1,307,033
6,059
30,417
Montserrat
1,888
9,38
9,887
Montserratique
17,336,000
19,277
17,468
13,833
29,56
4,846,664
424,848
10,746
Myanmar
45,000,000
2,285
19,694
2,185
2,134
523,509
1,736
5,270
Namibia
1,409,920
1,722
156,119
2,438
Nauru
6,431
-17*
Nepal
22,014,400
107,914
52,890
Netherlands
15,422,542
32,792
31,142
30,892
1,970
4,864,474
11,612
55,080
Nevis
10,080
-10*
9,503
New Caledonia
182,017
1,570
1,511
1,403
324,344
1,507
4,051
New Zealand
3,541,800
13,340
12,573
12,332
1,364
2,533,844
7,900
25,626
Nicaragua
4,500,000
11,920
11,259
10,395
1,144
1,568
3,162,550
22,729
68,750
Niger
7,490,000
33,142
624,31
Nigeria
96,000,000
191,439
159,140
17,441
11,302
22,918
3,583
40,083,157
272,984
507,767
Nigeria
2,000
184,940
174,441
11,302
22,918
3,843
Norfolk Island
1,912
1,590
Norway
4,369,922
10,181
9,687
9,521
1,316,101
3,407
16,409
Pakistan
129,000,000
360,543
74,499
1,602
Panama
2,631,013
8,214
7,808
7,436
1,120
1,968,025
10,908
28,558
Papua New Guinea
4,214,000
3,345
1,260
2,994
2,937
809,929
4,574
15,682
Paraguay
4,828,477
5,121
4,600
4,168
1,162,342
6,239
12,287
Peru
14,731,701
53,534
48,088
45,470
4,890
8,956
14,731,838
70,680
178,326
Philippines
67,000,000
121,017
118,560
115,311
7,457
22,740
3,489
28,737,757
96,800
378,563
Philippine
37,394
118,560
115,311
7,457
22,740
3,489
28,737,757
96,800
378,563
Polynae
38,587,000
123,930
120,822
115,778
8,177
9,044
1,576
19,936,597
17,236
240,445
Portugal
49,256,160
44,650
43,633
24,937
29,466
3,924
809,929
6,767
Portugal Rico
30,500,000
20,900
28,225
24,970
1,166
2,336
47,790,632
18,154
Reunion
663,400
2,544
2,452
2,258
558,208
2,258
Rodrigues
34,652
12,489
Romania
22,755,960
33,541
32,472
29,789
2,846
1,789
4,937,034
17,528
89,220
Rota
2,436
-7
2,151
Rwanda
7,928,000
3,041
2,574
2,192
2,072
1,134,827
12,307
Saba
1,000
1,000
1,575
St. Eustatius
1,500
3,509
St. Helena
5,139
16,120
St. Kitts
31,880
-5*
32,026
St. Lucia
142,000
183,296
2,089
St. Maarten
24,000
52,262
St. Moore & Miquelon
9,000
-5*
St. Vincent
107,690
91,512
1,015
Saipan
51,597
51,468
San Marino
23,000
37,163
San Tomé & Principe
124,206
49,056
Senegal
8,500,000
11,258
203,658
1,416
2,036
Seychelles
74,240
23,084
Sierra Leone
4,387,000
5,885
244,105
1,418
3,313
Slovakia
5,363,638
12,272
11,912
11,425
1,896,035
6,569
25,600
Slovenia
1,989,477
1,732
1,149
1,683
1,604
349,002
3,036
Slovenia Islands
707,765
414,654
1,416
2,036
South Africa
41,244,000
62,828
58208
55,983
3,973
6,407
1,223
12,791,964
58,566
155,983
Sri Lanka
39,188,000
100,928
97,674
95,411
4,615
12,413
1,235
23,278,451
45,015
167,880
Suriname
18,000,000
2,139
8,415
1,977
1,760
549,560
2,769
6,388
Suriname
400,000
1,772
1,702
-1*
1,712
415,549
2,132
5,722
Swaziland
908,119
1,772
1,646
1,605
442,472
2,183
5,819
Sweden
8,831,068
24,654
23,792
23,433
2,349
4,145,744
10,710
39,660
Switzerland
7,019,000
18,430
18,196
17,894
1,265
3,266,426
10,483
30,664
Taiwan
1,721,021
18,291
1,763
19,484
3,603,194
14,366
18,364
Taiwan
21,000,000
2,810
7,147
2,655
24,399
1,128,280
4,349
7,704
Tanzania
29,000,000
5,429
5,342
4,943
4,494
1,515,527
6,717
16,839
Tanzania
59,450,000
1,574
37,770
1,622
14,266
387,719
1,597
3,334
Togo
4,052,000
8,887
8,294
7,133
1,337
2,405,554
23,292
36,386
Tokelau
1,700
Tonga
98,847
1,297
18,652
Trinidad & Tobago
1,257,748
7,076
6,801
6,491
1,193
7,105,304
9,635
21,670
Trinidad & Tobago
60,000,000
1,229
382,085
1,116
2,409
Turks & Caicos Isls.
15,000
1,201
10,719
Turks & Caicos Isls.
9,043
-9*
10,719
Uganda
19,600,000
1,678
11,681
1,447
1,212
476,720
3,056
5,737
Uganda
52,114,000
60,011
55,660
46,575
10,639
4,388
11,771,627
48,628
165,832
U.S. of America
261,579,000
956,346
912,002
889,570
43,909
105,357
10,425
186,667,836
568,480
2,110,638
Uruguay
3,030,000
10,346
95,899
9,071
1,707,968
9,249
23,069
Venezuela
142,630
48,765
1,284
Venezuela
22,600,000
71,709
66,430
61,549
5,746
11,853
19,129,224
106,304
238,027
Virgin Islands (Beis.)
17,100
Uvaila (U.S.)
101,800
137,019
Waila & Futuna Isls.
15,000
4,062
Western Samoa
161,298
90,799
1,107
Yap
10,444
13,299
Yugoslavia, F.R.
10,394,026
3,130
3,321
2,928
2,529
863,612
3,199
7,994
Zaire
45,000,000
89,115
85,160
76,964
9,363
13,480
1,695
25,528,817
180,614
366,972
Zambia
9,072,600
84,592
79,639
-1*
80,547
3,832
9,863
2,034
17,095,771
108,017
370,622
Zimbabwe
11,038,234
24,461
23,108
-1*
19,219
1,698
2,983
54,924,924
34,638
65,765
197 Countries
5,041,998
5,041,998
4,807,211
4,582,218
314,986
643,465
768,82
11,121,738,689
4,609,517
12,710,722
197 Countries of Former U.S.S.R.
231,466,000
77,985
2,968
680,099
45,233
14,843
618,99
17,179,856
184,112
237,340
292 Countries
79,912
79,912
76,094
67,660
8,662
13,867
1,225
20,441,040
147,131
199,139
During the 1995 service year, the Watch Tower Society spent $57,955,025.64 in caring for special pioneers, missionaries, and traveling overseers in their field service assignments.
MEMORIAL PARTAKERS WORLDWIDE: 8,645
Percentage of decrease # Work banned and reports are incomplete 16 There are still "old men and old women" among Jehovah's people, anointed ones who remember the early triumphs of Jehovah's organization.
Their faithfulness and endurance are greatly appreciated. Younger anointed ones took the lead during the fiery days of the 1930's and World War II, as well as in the exciting years of growth that followed. Further, especially since 1935, the "great crowd" of "other sheep" has manifested itself. (Revelation 7:9; John 10:16) As anointed Christians have grown older and become fewer, the other sheep have taken up the preaching work and have extended it throughout the earth. In recent years other sheep have been flooding into the land of God's people. Why, last year alone, 338,-491 of them were baptized in symbol of their dedication to Jehovah! Such new ones are very young indeed, spiritually speaking. Their freshness and enthusiasm are treasured as they swell the ranks of those who sing grateful praises "to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb."—Revelation 7:10.
17 Today, 'the public squares are filled
17. (a) How have "old men and old women" as well as "boys and girls" strengthened Jehovah's organization? (b) What demonstrates the peace of Jehovah's people?
Can You Explain?
In modern times, how has Jehovah been 'jealous with a great rage' for his people?
How do Jehovah's people enjoy peace, even in war-torn lands?
In what way are 'the public squares filled with boys and girls'?
What provisions have been made so that Jehovah's people can be taught by him?
with boys and girls,' Witnesses with youthlike vigor. In the 1995 service year, reports were received from 232 lands and islands of the sea. But there is no international rivalry, no intertribal hatred, no inappropriate jealousy, between anointed and other sheep. All grow together spiritually, united in love. The worldwide brotherhood of Jehovah's Witnesses is truly unique on the world scene.—Colossians 3:14; 1 Peter 2:17.
Too Difficult for Jehovah?
18 Back in 1918 when the anointed remnant consisted of just a few thousand discouraged souls in spiritual captivity, no one could have foreseen the course that events would take. Nevertheless, Jehovah knew—as borne out by his fourth prophetic pronouncement: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'Although it should seem too difficult in the eyes of the remaining ones of this people in those days, should it seem too difficult also in my eyes?' is the utterance of Jehovah of armies."—Zechariah 8:6.
19 In 1919, Jehovah's spirit revived his people for the work ahead. Still, it took faith to hold fast to the small organization of Jehovah's worshipers. They were so few, and many things were not clear. However, little by little Jehovah strengthened them organizationally and equipped them to do the Christian work of preaching the good news and making disciples. (Isaiah 60:17, 19; Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20) Gradually, he helped them to discern such vital issues as neutrality and universal sovereignty. Was it too difficult for Jehovah to accomplish his will by means of that small group of Witnesses? The answer is certainly no! This is borne out on pages 12 to 15 of this magazine, which set forth the chart of activity of Jehovah's Witnesses for the 1995 service year.
"I Myself Shall Become Their God"
20 The fifth pronouncement shows further the happy condition of Jehovah's Witnesses today: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'Here I am saving my people from the land of the sunrise and from the land of the setting of the sun. And I shall certainly bring them in, and they must reside in the midst of Jerusalem; and they must become my people, and I myself shall become their God in trueness and in righteousness.'"—Zechariah 8:7, 8.
21 In 1996 we can say without hesitation that the good news has been preached around the world, from "the land of the sunrise" to "the land of the setting of the sun."
How extensive was the gathering of God's people prophesied to be?
In what way has the abundant peace of Jehovah's people been maintained and extended?
Disciples have been made of people of all nations, and they have seen the fulfillment of Jehovah's promise: "All your sons will be persons taught by Jehovah, and the peace of your sons will be abundant." (Isaiah 54:13) We have peace because we are educated by Jehovah. To this end, literature has been published in over 300 languages. Last year alone, 21 additional languages were added. The Watchtower magazine is now published simultaneously in 111 languages, and Awake! in 54. National and international conventions provide a public demonstration of the peace of God's people. Weekly meetings unite us and give us the encouragement we need to stay firm. (Hebrews 10: 23-25) Yes, Jehovah is educating his people "in trueness and in righteousness." He is giving his people peace. How blessed we are to share in that abundant peace!
"LOVE TRUTH AND PEACE"!
"The word of Jebovah of armies continued to occur to me, saying: '... Love truth and peace.'"—ZECHARIAH 8:18, 19.
THE world has never had peace. Somewhere—and often in many places at once—there has always been war." So said Professor Milton Mayer of the University of Massachusetts, U.S.A. What a sad commentary on humanity! True, men have wanted peace. Politicians have tried all kinds of ways to maintain it, from the Pax Romana of Roman times to the policy of "Mutually Assured Destruction" during the Cold War. Ultimately, though, all their efforts failed. As Isaiah expressed it many centuries ago, 'the very messengers of peace have wept bitterly.' (Isaiah 33:7) Why is this?
2It is because a lasting peace has to spring from an absence of hatred and greed; it must be grounded in truth. Peace cannot be based on lies. That is why Jehovah when promising restoration and peace for ancient Israel said: "Here I am extending to her peace just like a river and the glory of nations just like a flooding
torrent." (Isaiah 66:12) The god of this system of things, Satan the Devil, is "a manslayer," a murderer, and "a liar and the father of the lie." (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 4:4) How can a world with such a god ever have peace?
3 Remarkably, though, Jehovah gives peace to his people even while they live in Satan's war-torn world. (John 17:16) In the sixth century B.C.E., he fulfilled his promise through Jeremiah and gave "peace and truth" to his special nation when he restored them to their homeland. (Jeremiah 33:6) And in these last days, he has given "peace and truth" to his people in their
"land," or earthly spiritual estate, even though they have lived through the worst time of trouble this world has seen up to now. (Isaiah 66:8; Matthew 24:7-13; Revelation 6:1-8) As we continue our discussion of Zechariah chapter 8, we will gain a deeper appreciation of this God-given peace and truth and see what we have to do to preserve our share in it.
'Let Your Hands Be Strong'
4 For the sixth time in Zechariah chapter 8, we hear a thrilling pronouncement from Jehovah: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'Let the hands of you people be strong, you who are hearing in these days these words from the mouth of the prophets, on the day on which the foundation of the house of Jehovah of armies was laid, for the temple to be built.
For before those days there were no wages for mankind made to exist; and as for the wages of domestic animals, there was no such thing; and to the one going out and to the one coming in there was no peace because of the adversary, as I kept thrusting all mankind against one another.'”—Zechariah 8:9, 10.
5 Zechariah spoke these words while the temple was being rebuilt in Jerusalem. Previously, the Israelites who had returned from Babylon became discouraged and ceased the work of temple building. Because they turned their attention to their own comfort, they had no blessing and no peace from Jehovah. Even though they cultivated their lands and cared for their vineyards, they did not prosper. (Haggai 1:3-6) It was as if they were working for "no wages."
6 Now that the temple was being rebuilt, Zechariah encouraged the Jews to "be strong," courageously to put Jehovah's worship first. What would happen if they did so? "Now I shall not be as in the former days to the remaining ones of this people,' is the utterance of Jehovah of armies. 'For there will be the seed of peace; the vine itself will give its fruitage, and the earth itself will give its yield, and the heavens themselves will give their dew; and I shall certainly cause the remaining ones of this people to inherit all these things. And it must occur that just as you became a malediction among the nations, O house of Judah and house of Israel, so I shall save
you, and you must become a blessing. Do not be afraid. May your hands be strong.'" (Zechariah 8:11-13) If Israel would act with determination, she would prosper. Earlier, when the nations wished to cite an example of malediction, they could point to Israel. Now Israel would be an example of a blessing. What an excellent reason to 'let their hands be strong'!
7 What of today? Well, in the years before 1919, Jehovah's people were somewhat lacking in zeal. They did not take a fully neutral stand in the first world war, and they had the tendency to follow a man rather than their King, Jesus Christ. As a result, some were discouraged by opposition from inside and outside the organization. Then, in 1919, with Jehovah's help they let their hands be strong. (Zechariah 4:6) Jehovah gave them peace, and they prospered mightily. This is seen in their record of the last 75 years, culminating in the 1995 service year. As a people, Jehovah's Witnesses shun nationalism, tribalism, prejudice, and all other sources of hatred. (1 John 3:14-18) They serve Jehovah with genuine zeal in his spiritual temple. (Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 7:15) Last year alone, they spent over a billion hours talking to others about their heavenly Father! Each month, they conducted 4,865,060 Bible studies. An average of 663,521 shared in pioneer service each month. When ministers in Christendom want to give an example of a people who are truly enthusiastic in their worship, they sometimes point to Jehovah's Witnesses.
8 Because of their zeal, Jehovah gives his people "the seed of peace." Each individual who cultivates that seed will see peace grow in his heart and in his life. Every believing Christian who pursues peace with Jehovah and with fellow Christians shares in the truth and peace of Jehovah's name people. (1 Peter 3:11; compare James 3:18.) Is that not wonderful?
"Do Not Be Afraid"
9 Now we read a seventh pronouncement from Jehovah. What is it? "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'Just as I had in mind to do what was calamitous to you people because of your forefathers' making me indignant,' Jehovah of armies has said, 'and I felt no regret, so I will again have in mind in these days to deal well with Jerusalem and with the house of Judah. Do not be afraid.'"—Zechariah 8:14, 15.
10 Even though Jehovah's people were scattered in a spiritual sense during the first world war, in their hearts they wanted to do what was right. Hence, Jehovah, after administering some discipline, changed his way of dealing with them. (Malachi 3:2-4) Today, we look back and thank him fervently for what he has done. True, we have been "objects of hatred by all the nations." (Matthew 24:9) Many have been imprisoned, and some have even died for their faith. We often face apathy or hostility. But we are not afraid. We know that Jehovah is stronger than any opposition, visible or invisible. (Isaiah 40:15; Ephesians 6:10-13) We will not cease to heed the words: "Hope in Jehovah; be courageous and let your heart be strong." —Psalm 27:14.
"Speak Truthfully With One Another"
11 To share fully in the blessings from Jehovah, there are things we should remember. Zechariah says: "These are the things that you people should do: Speak truthfully with one another. With truth and the judgment of peace do your judging in your gates. And calamity to one another do not you scheme up in your hearts, and do not love any false oath; for these are all things that I have hated,' is the utterance of Jehovah."—Zechariah 8:16, 17.
12 Jehovah urges us to speak the truth. (Ephesians 4:15, 25) He does not hear the prayers of those who scheme harmful things, hide the truth for personal gain, or utter false oaths. (Proverbs 28:9) Since he hates apostasy, he wants us to cling to Bible truth. (Psalm 25:5; 2 John 9-11) Further, like the older men at the city gates in Israel, elders handling judicial cases should base their counsel and decisions on Bible truth, not on personal opinion. (John 17:17) Jehovah wants them to seek a "judgment of peace," trying, as Christian shepherds, to restore peace between contending parties and helping repentant sinners regain peace with God. (James 5:14, 15; Jude 23) At the same time, they preserve the peace of the congregation, courageously expelling those who disturb that peace by willfully persisting in wrongdoing.—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.
"An Exultation and a Rejoicing"
13 Now, we hear an eighth solemn pronouncement: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'The fast of the fourth month, and the fast of the fifth month, and the fast of the seventh month, and the fast of the tenth month will become for the house of Judah an exultation and a rejoicing and good festal seasons.
So love truth and peace." (Zechariah 8:19) Under the Mosaic Law, the Israelites fasted on the Day of Atonement to express sorrow for their sins. (Leviticus 16:29-31) The four fasts mentioned by Zechariah were apparently observed to mourn events in connection with the conquest and destruction of Jerusalem. (2 Kings 25:1-4, 8, 9, 22-26) Now, however, the temple was being rebuilt and Jerusalem repopulated. Mourning was being changed into rejoicing, and the fasts could become festal seasons.
14 Today, we do not observe the fasts mentioned by Zechariah or the fasting prescribed in the Law. Since Jesus offered his life for our sins, we are enjoying the blessings of a greater Day of Atonement. Our sins are covered, not just in a token way, but completely. (Hebrews 9:6-14) Following the command of the heavenly High Priest, Jesus Christ, we observe the Memorial of his death as the only solemn celebration on the Christian calendar. (Luke 22:19, 20) Do we not experience "an exultation and a rejoicing" as we gather together each year for that celebration?
15 Last year, 13,147,201 came together to celebrate the Memorial, 858,284 more than in 1994. What a multitude! Picture the rejoicing in the 78,620 congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses as unusually large numbers flocked into their Kingdom Halls for the celebration. Surely, all present were
moved to "love truth and peace" as they remembered the death of the One who is "the way and the truth and the life" and who now reigns as Jehovah's great "Prince of Peace"! (John 14:6; Isaiah 9:6) That celebration had special meaning for those who observed it in lands racked by turmoil and war. Some of our brothers witnessed indescribable horrors during 1995. Still, 'the peace of God that excels all thought guarded their hearts and their mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.'—Philippians 4:7.
'Let Us Soften the Face of Jehovah'
16 Where, though, did all those millions who attended the Memorial come from? The ninth utterance of Jehovah explains: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said, 'It will yet be that peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will come; and the inhabitants of one city will certainly go to those of another, saying: 'Let us earnestly go to soften the face of Jehovah and to seek Jehovah of armies. I myself will go also.' And many peoples and mighty nations will actually come to seek Jehovah of armies in Jerusalem and to soften the face of Jehovah.'"—Zechariah 8:20-22.
17 People who attended the Memorial wanted to "seek Jehovah of armies." Many of these were his dedicated, baptized servants. Millions of others in attendance had not yet reached that stage. In some lands the Memorial attendance was four or five times the number of Kingdom publishers. These many interested ones need help to continue to make progress. Let us teach them to exult in the knowledge that Jesus died for our sins and is now ruling in God's Kingdom. (1 Corinthians 5:7, 8; Revelation 11:15) And let us encourage
16, 17. How can people of the nations "soften the face of Jehovah"?
them to dedicate themselves to Jehovah God and submit to his appointed King. In this way they will "soften the face of Jehovah."—Psalm 116:18, 19; Philippians 2: 12, 13.
"Ten Men Out Of All the Languages of the Nations"
18 For the last time in the eighth chapter of Zechariah, we read: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said." What is Jehovah's final proclamation? "It will be in those days that ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will actually take hold of the skirt of a man who is a Jew, saying: 'We will go with you people, for we have heard that God is with you people.'" (Zechariah 8:23) In Zechariah's day, natural Israel was God's chosen nation. In the first century, however, Israel rejected Jehovah's Messiah. Hence, our God chose
19. (a) In the fulfillment of Zechariah 8:23, who today is "a Jew?". (b) Who today are the "ten men" who "take hold of the skirt of a man who is a Jew"?
Can You Explain?
How did God's people 'let their hands be strong' in Zechariah's day? Today?
How do we respond to persecution, hostility, and apathy?
What is involved in our 'speaking truth with one another'?
How can a person "soften the face of Jehovah"?
What great cause for rejoicing is seen in the fulfillment of Zechariah 8:23?
"a Jew"—a new Israel—as his special people, "the Israel of God" made up of spiritual Jews. (Galatians 6:16; John 1:11; Romans 2:28, 29) The final number of these was to be 144,000, chosen from among mankind to reign with Jesus in his heavenly Kingdom. —Revelation 14:1, 4.
15 Most of these 144,000 have already died faithful and have gone to their heavenly reward. (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; Revelation 6:9-11) A few remain on earth and these rejoice to see that the "ten men" who choose to go along with the "Jew" are indeed "a great crowd . . . out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues."—Revelation 7:9; Isaiah 2:2, 3; 60:4-10, 22.
20 As the end of this world gets inexorably closer, Christendom is like Jerusalem in Jeremiah's day: "There was a hoping for peace, but no good came; and for a time of healing, and, look! terror!" (Jeremiah 14:19) That terror will reach a climax when the nations turn on false religion and bring it to a violent end. Shortly afterward, the nations themselves will experience destruction in God's final war, Armageddon. (Matthew 24:29, 30; Revelation 16:14, 16; 17:16-18; 19:11-21) What a time of tumult that will be!
21 Through it all, Jehovah will protect those who love truth and cultivate "the seed of peace." (Zechariah 8:12; Zephaniah 2:3) Let us, then, stay safe within the land of his people, zealously praising him publicly and helping as many as possible to "soften the face of Jehovah." If we do so, we will always enjoy Jehovah's peace. Yes, "Jehovah himself will give strength indeed to his people. Jehovah himself will bless his people with peace."—Psalm 29:11.
20, 21. As the end of this world draws closer, how may we stay at peace with Jehovah?
KINGDOM PROCLAIMERS REPORT
"The Word of God Went On Growing"
THE Christian congregation grew from about 120 members to over 3,000 in a matter of hours after it was formed. (Acts 1:15; 2:41) The Bible explains that "the word of God went on growing, and the number of the disciples kept multiplying in Jerusalem very much." (Acts 6:7) After just a few years, the newly formed congregation became an intercontinental organization with Christians in Africa, Asia, and Europe.
The Christian congregation today is likewise experiencing rapid growth. For instance, in Mexico, the number of Kingdom proclaimers has grown in just five years by more than 130,000 to 443,6401 In 1995, 1 out of 59 people in Mexico attended the Memorial of Christ's death as celebrated by Jehovah's Witnesses. Yet, the spiritual harvest in that country is not completed, as is illustrated by the following experience. -Matthew 9:37, 38.
In one town in the state of Chiapas, no one had accepted a home Bible study with Jehovah's
Witnesses, even after they had preached the good news some 20 years in that area. Evidently many of the townspeople were intimidated by a man who had a reputation for being violent. They feared his reaction if he was to find out that they were studying the Bible with the Witnesses.
Two courageous Witnesses who moved into the area decided to tackle the problem by going straight to the man in question. When they arrived at his home, his wife answered the door and listened attentively to their message. She was especially interested in what the Bible says about living in a paradise on earth. But she acknowledged that her husband would make things very difficult for her if she was to study the Bible. The Witnesses explained that unless she carefully examined what the Bible says, she would never learn how to serve God and enjoy life on earth forever. She accepted a Bible study.
As expected, her husband was not pleased with her decision. He prohibited her from using her automobile to attend Christian meetings, although she was allowed to use it for other purposes. Despite his opposition, she regularly walked to the closest Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, which was six miles away. Soon others in town noticed her courage and determination. People began to listen when the Witnesses visited their homes. Some even started to accompany the woman to the meetings. After a short time, the Witnesses were conducting about 20 Bible studies in that town!
A friend of this woman also decided to study the Bible despite her husband's opposition. Surprisingly, she was encouraged to do so by the husband of the first woman. After he spoke with her husband, the opposition ceased. So it was that after 20 years the seed of Bible truth finally sprouted, with more than 15 persons studying the Bible and attending Christian meetings, including these two women, who are now publishing the good news.
JEHOVAH NEVER ABANDONED US
AS TOLD BY NASHO DORI
Mbreshtan is a small mountain village in southern Albania, not far from Greece. I was born there in 1907. When I was five, I began attending a Greek school, but my schooling was interrupted when Italian forces invaded Albania during World War I. After the war, I resumed my schooling but in the Albanian language.
ALTHOUGH my parents were not very religious, they observed the traditions of the Albanian Orthodox Church. My great-uncle was a priest in Mbreshtan, so I worked in the church and got an inside view of what went on there. The rituals seemed so empty, and the hypocrisy bothered me.
Following local custom, my parents selected a young woman for me to marry. Argjiro was from the nearby village of Grabova, and we were married in 1928, when she was 18.
Learning Bible Truth
About that time I complained about the Orthodox Church to a cousin who was visiting from the United States. "In America, near my home," he replied, "there is a group of people who don't have a church, but they study the Bible." The idea of studying the Bible without having a church appealed to me. So I asked if he would send me some Bible literature.
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