The Watchtower, May 1, 2000
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MAY 1. 2000
WATCHTOWER
ANNOUNCING JEHOVAH'S KINGDOM
Why So Much Corruption?
THE WATCHTOWER
ANNOUNCING JEHOVAH'S KINGDOM
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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 Watchtower, published by Jehovah's Witnesses continuously since 1879, is nonpolitical. It adheres to the Bible as its authority.
IN THIS ISSUE
3 Why Is There So Much Corruption?
4 Fighting Corruption With the Sword of the Spirit
8 Firmly Uphold Godly Teaching
13 Hear What the Spirit Has to Say
18 Kingdom Proclaimers Report
19 Joyful Weddings That Honor Jehovah
23 "I Will March Around Your Altar, O Jehovah"
24 Thanking Jehovah-Through Full-Time Service!
28 Jehovah Is Greater Than Our Hearts
32 He Died for a Principle
WATCHTOWER STUDIES
JUNE 12-18:
Firmly Uphold Godly Teaching.
Page 8. Songs to be used: 91, 180.
JUNE 19-25:
Hear What the Spirit Has to Say.
Page 3. Songs to be used: 42, 55.
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Why Is There So Much Corruption?
"YOU ARE NOT TO ACCEPT A BRIBE, FOR THE BRIBE BLINDS CLEAR-SIGHTED MEN AND CAN DISTORT THE WORDS OF RIGHTEOUS MEN." Exodus 23:8.
THREE thousand five hundred years ago, the Law of Moses condemned bribery. Over the centuries since then, anticorruption laws have proliferated. Nevertheless, legislation has not succeeded in curbing corruption. Millions of bribes change hands every day, and billions of people suffer the consequences.
Corruption has grown so widespread and sophisticated that it threatens to undermine the very fabric of society. In some countries almost nothing gets done unless a palm is greased. A bribe to the right person will enable one to pass an exam, get a driver's license, land a contract, or win a lawsuit. "Corruption is like a heavy pollution that weighs on people's spirits," laments Arnaud Montebourg, a Paris lawyer.
Bribery runs especially rampant in the world of commerce. Some companies allocate a third of all their profits just to pay off corrupt government bureaucrats. According to the British magazine The Economist, as much as 10 percent of the $25 billion spent every year in international arms trade serves to bribe potential customers. As the scale of this corruption has increased, the consequences have become catastrophic. During the last decade,
"crony" capitalism-corrupt business practices that favor the privileged few who have good connections-is said to have ruined the economies of entire countries.
Inevitably, the ones who suffer most from corruption and the economic devastation it spawns are the poor—the ones who are rarely in a position to bribe anyone. As The Economist succinctly put it, "corruption is but one form of oppression." Can this type of oppression be overcome, or is corruption inescapable? To answer that question, we must first identify some of the fundamental causes of corruption.
What Are the Causes of Corruption?
Why do people choose to be corrupt rather than honest? For some, being corrupt may be the easiest way-or indeed the only way-to get what they want. At times, a bribe may provide a convenient means of avoiding punishment. Many who observe that politicians, policemen, and judges seem to ignore corruption or even practice it themselves merely follow their example.
As corruption snowballs, it becomes more acceptable until it is finally a way of life. People with pitifully low wages come to feel that they have no option. They have to demand bribes if they want to make a decent living.
And when those who extort bribes or pay them to gain an unfair advantage go unpunished, few are prepared to swim against the tide. "Because sentence against a bad work has not been executed speedily, that is why the heart of the sons of men has become fully set in them to do bad," observed King Solomon. —Ecclesiastes 8:11.
Two powerful forces keep stoking the fires of corruption: selfishness and greed. Because of selfishness, corrupt people turn a blind eye to the suffering that their corruption inflicts on others, and they justify bribery simply because they benefit from it. The more material benefits they amass, the greedier those practicers of corruption become. "A mere lover of silver will not be satisfied with silver," observed Solomon, "neither a lover of wealth with income." (Ecclesiastes 5:10) Granted, greed may be good for making money, but it invariably winks at corruption and illegality.
Another factor that should not be overlooked is the role of the invisible ruler of this world, whom the Bible identifies as Satan the Devil. (1 John 5:19; Revelation 12:9) Satan actively promotes corruption. The biggest bribe on record was the one Satan offered to Christ. 'I will give you all the kingdoms of the world if you fall down and do an act of worship to me.'-Matthew 4:8, 9.
Jesus, however, was incorruptible, and he taught his followers to behave in a similar way. Could Christ's teachings be an effective tool for fighting corruption today? The following article will analyze this question.
Fighting Corruption With the Sword of the Spirit
"PUT ON THE NEW PERSONALITY WHICH WAS CREATED ACCORDING TO GOD'S WILL IN TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND LOYALTY."
-Ephesians 4:24.
AT ITS height, the Roman Empire was the greatest human administration the world had ever seen. Roman legislation was so effective that it is still the basis of the legal code of many countries. Despite Rome's achievements, however, her legions were unable to conquer one insidious enemy: corruption. Finally, corruption hastened Rome's downfall.
The apostle Paul was one who suffered under corrupt Roman officials. Felix, the Roman governor who interrogated him, apparently recognized Paul's innocence. But Felix, one of
the most corrupt governors of his day, delayed Paul's trial, hoping that Paul would give him money to secure his release.-Acts 24:22-26.
Instead of bribing Felix, Paul spoke to him frankly about "righteousness and self-control." Felix did not change his ways, and Paul remained in prison rather than try to sidestep the legal process with a bribe. He preached a message of truth and honesty, and he lived accordingly. "We trust we have an honest conscience," he wrote to Jewish Christians, "as we wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things."—Hebrews 13:18.
Such a stand was in stark contrast with the morals of the time. Felix's brother Pallas was one of the richest men of the ancient world, and his wealth—calculated at $45 million—was accumulated almost entirely by bribery and extortion. His fortune, however, pales into insignificance when compared with the billions of dollars some corrupt 20th-century rulers have hidden away in secret bank accounts. Clearly, only the naive would believe that today's governments have won the war against corruption.
Since corruption has remained entrenched for so long, must we assume that it is just part of human nature? Or can something be done to curb corruption?
How Can Corruption Be Curbed?
The obvious first step in curbing corruption is to recognize that corruption is destructive and wrong, since it benefits the unscrupulous to the detriment of others. Some progress has undoubtedly been made in that direction. James Foley, U.S. deputy secretary of state, said: "We all recognize that the cost of bribery is high. Bribes undermine good governance, harm economic efficiency and development, distort trade, and penalize citizens around the world." Many would agree with him. On December 17, 1997, 34 major countries signed a "bribery convention" that is designed to "have a major impact on the global fight against corruption." The convention "makes it a crime to offer, promise or give a bribe to a foreign public official in order to obtain or retain international business deals."
Bribes for winning business contracts in other countries, however, are just the tip of the corruption iceberg. Eliminating corruption across the board requires a second, much more difficult step: a change of heart or, rather, a change of many hearts. People everywhere must learn to hate bribery and corruption. Only then will graft disappear. To this end, Newsweek magazine said that some feel
that governments should "encourage a general sense of civic virtue." Transparency International, an anticorruption lobbying group, likewise recommends that its supporters "inject a 'seed of integrity'" into the workplace.
The fight against corruption is a moral one that cannot be won by legislation alone or by "the sword" of legal penalties. (Romans 13:4, 5) Seeds of virtue and integrity have to be sown in people's hearts. This can best be achieved by use of what the apostle Paul described as "the sword of the spirit," God's Word, the Bible.—Ephesians 6:17.
Why did Paul refuse to condone corruption? Because he wanted to do the will of God, "who treats none with partiality nor accepts a bribe." (Deuteronomy 10:17) Moreover, Paul doubtless remembered the specific instruction found in the Law of Moses: "You must not be partial or accept a bribe, for the bribe blinds the eyes of wise ones and distorts the words of righteous ones." (Deuteronomy 16:19) King David likewise understood that Jehovah hates corruption, and he requested that God not count him among the sinners, "whose right hand is full of bribery." —Psalm 26:10.
Those who sincerely worship God have additional reasons for rejecting corruption. "By justice a king gives a country stability," wrote Solomon, "but one who is greedy for bribes tears it down." (Proverbs 29:4, New International Version) Justice—especially when practiced from the highest official down—brings stability, whereas corruption impoverishes a country. Interestingly, Newsweek pointed out: "In a system where everyone wants a piece of the corruption pie and knows how to get it, economies can simply implode."
Even when economies do not collapse completely, lovers of justice feel frustrated when corruption flourishes unchecked. (Psalm 73: 3, 13) Our Creator, the one who gave us our inherent desire for justice, is also wronged.
In the past, Jehovah has intervened to stamp out blatant corruption. For example, he bluntly told the inhabitants of Jerusalem why he would abandon them to their enemies.
Through his prophet Micah, God said: "Hear, please, this, you head ones of the house of Jacob and you commanders of the house of Israel, the ones detesting justice and the ones who make even everything that is straight crooked. Her own head ones judge merely for a bribe, and her own priests instruct just for a price, and her own prophets practice divination simply for money . . . Therefore on account of you men Zion will be plowed up as a mere field, and Jerusalem herself will become mere heaps of ruins." Corruption had devastated society in Israel, just as it corroded Rome centuries later. True to God's warning, about a century after Micah wrote those words, Jerusalem was destroyed and abandoned.—Micah 3:9, 11, 12.
No man or nation, however, needs to be corrupt. God encourages the wicked to leave their way of life and change their way of thinking. (Isaiah 55:7) He wants each and every one of us to replace greed with unselfishness and corruption with righteousness. "He that is defrauding the lowly one has reproached his Maker, but the one showing favor to the poor one is glorifying Him," Jehovah reminds us. —Proverbs 14:31.
Successfully Fighting Corruption With Bible Truth
What can move a person to make such a change? The same force that moved Paul to renounce the life of a Pharisee to become a stalwart follower of Jesus Christ. "The word of God is alive and exerts power," he wrote. (Hebrews 4:12) Today, Scriptural truth still promotes honesty, even among those who have been deeply involved in corruption. Consider an example.
Not long after finishing his military service, Alexander, who is from Eastern Europe, joined
a gang that practiced racketeering, extortion, and bribery.* "My assignment was to extort protection money from wealthy businessmen," he explains. "Once I had gained the confidence of a businessman, other members of our team threatened him with violence. I then offered to handle the matter—for a hefty price. My 'clients' thanked me for helping them deal with their problems, when I was actually the cause of them. Strange as it may seem, this was an aspect of the job that I liked.
"I also enjoyed the money and the excitement that this life-style offered me. I drove an expensive car, lived in a nice apartment, and I had the money to buy anything I wanted. People feared me, which gave me a sense of power. I somehow felt that nobody could touch me and that I was above the law. Any problems with the police could be solved either by an expert lawyer, who had ways of getting around the justice system, or by a bribe to the right person.
"However, loyalty rarely exists among those whose living depends on corruption. One of our gang took a dislike to me, and I found myself out of favor. Suddenly, I lost my flashy car, my money, my expensive girlfriend. I even got badly beaten up. This reversal made me think seriously about the purpose of life.
"A few months earlier, my mother had become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, and I began to read their literature. The text at Proverbs 4:14, 15 really made me think: 'Into the path of the wicked ones do not enter, and do not walk straight on into the way of the bad ones. Shun it, do not pass along by it; turn aside from it, and pass along.' Passages such as this convinced me that those who want to lead a criminal life have no real future. I began to pray to Jehovah and to ask him to guide me in the right way. I studied the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses, and finally, I dedicated my life to God. I have lived honestly ever since.
"Of course, living by honest standards has
meant earning a lot less money. But now I feel that I have a future, that my life has real meaning. I realize that my former life-style with all its expensive trappings was just like a house of cards waiting to collapse at any moment. Formerly, my conscience was insensitive. Now, thanks to my study of the Bible, it pricks me whenever I am tempted to be dishonest—even in small matters. I am trying to live in harmony with Psalm 37:3, which says: 'Trust in Jehovah and do good; reside in the earth, and deal with faithfulness.'"
With the Bible's help, we can cultivate "the new personality" and shun corruption
"He Who Hates Bribes Will Live"
As Alexander discovered, Bible truth can move a person to overcome corruption. He made changes in harmony with what the apostle Paul says in his letter to the Ephesians: "Put away the
old personality which conforms to your former course of conduct and which is being corrupted according to his deceptive desires; . . . you should be made new in the force actuating your mind, and should put on the new personality which was created according to God's will in true righteousness and loyalty. Wherefore, now that you have put away falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, because we are members belonging to one another. Let the stealer steal no more, but rather let him do hard work, doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need." (Ephesians 4:22-25, 28) The very future of mankind depends on such transformations.
Left unchecked, greed and corruption can ruin the earth, just as they contributed to the ruin of the Roman Empire. Happily, though, the Creator of mankind does not plan to leave such matters to chance. He has determined "to bring to ruin those ruining the earth." (Revelation 11:18) And Jehovah promises those who long for a world free from corruption that
shortly there will come "new heavens and a new earth . . . and in these righteousness is to dwell."—2 Peter 3:13.
True, it may not be easy to live by honest standards today. Nevertheless, Jehovah assures us that in the long run, "a greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live."* (Proverbs 15:27, NIV) By renouncing corruption now, we show our sincerity when we pray to God: "Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth."—Matthew 6:10.
While we wait for that Kingdom to act, each one of us can 'sow seed in righteousness' by refusing to condone or practice corruption. (Hosea 10:12) If we do so, our lives too will testify to the power of the inspired Word of God. The sword of the spirit can conquer corruption.
FIRMLY UPHOLD GODLY TEACHING
"Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding. In all your ways take notice of him, and he himself will make your paths straight."—PROVERBS 3:5, 6.
PRESENTLY, there are about 9,000 daily newspapers in circulation worldwide. Every year some 200,000 new books are published in the United States alone. According to one estimate, by March of 1998, there were about 275 million Web pages on the Internet. This figure is said to be growing at a rate of 20 million pages per month. As never before, people have access to information on just about any subject. While this situation has its positive aspects, such a superabundance of information has caused problems.
2 Some individuals have become information addicts, always feeding an insatiable desire to be up-to-date while neglecting more important things. Others acquire partial information about complex fields of knowledge and then view themselves as experts. Based on only a limited understanding, they may make crucial decisions that can cause harm to themselves or to others. And always present is the danger of exposure to false or inaccurate information. There is often no reliable way to verify that the flood of information is accurate and balanced.
3 Curiosity has long been a human trait. The dangers of wasting too much time in the pursuit of useless or even harmful information were recognized back in the days of
King Solomon. He said: "Take a warning: To the making of many books there is no end, and much devotion to them is wearisome to the flesh." (Ecclesiastes 12:12) Centuries later the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: "Guard what is laid up in trust with you, turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy and from the contradictions of the falsely called 'knowledge.' For making a show of such knowledge some have deviated from the faith." (1 Timothy 6:20, 21) Yes, Christians today need to avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful ideas.
4 Jehovah's people also do well to heed the words of Proverbs 3:5, 6: "Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding. In all your ways take notice of him, and he himself will make your paths straight." Trusting in Jehovah includes rejecting any idea that conflicts with God's Word, whether it stems from our own reasoning or from that of our fellowman. To protect our spirituality, it is vital that we train our perceptive powers so that we can identify harmful information and shun it. (Hebrews 5:14) Let us discuss some sources of such information.
A World Overpowered by Satan 5 The secular world is a prolific source Many popular magazines and books conflict with our Christian values
of harmful ideas. (1 Corinthians 3:19) Jesus Christ prayed to God regarding his disciples: "I request you, not to take them out of the world, but to watch over them because of the wicked one." (John 17:15) Jesus' request that his disciples be protected from "the wicked one" acknowledged the influence that Satan has in the world. Our being Christians does not automatically shield us from the bad influences of this world. John wrote: "We know we originate with God, but the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) Especially during this final part of the last days, it is to be expected that Satan and his demons will saturate the world with harmful information.
6 It is also to be expected that some of this harmful information may appear harmless. (2 Corinthians 11:14) Consider, for example, the world of entertainment, with its TV shows, movies, music, and printed page. Many agree that in more and more cases, certain forms of entertainment promote degrading practices, such as immorality, violence, and drug abuse. On first exposure to a form of entertainment that sinks to a new low, audiences may be shocked. But repeated exposure can desensitize one. Never should we view as acceptable or harmless entertainment that promotes harmful ideas.—Psalm 119:37.
7 Consider another source of potentially damaging information—the flood of ideas published by some scientists and scholars who challenge the Bible's authenticity. (Compare James 3:15.) Such material appears fre
quently in mainstream magazines and popular books, and it can erode confidence in the Bible. Some individuals take pride in weakening the authority of the Word of God with endless speculations. A similar danger existed in the days of the apostles, as is clear from the apostle Paul's words: "Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry you off as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ."—Colossians 2:8.
Enemies of the Truth
8 Apostates can present yet another threat to our spirituality. The apostle Paul foretold that apostasy would arise among professed Christians. (Acts 20:29, 30; 2 Thessalonians 2:3) In fulfillment of his words, after the death of the apostles, a great apostasy led to the development of Christendom. Today, there is no great apostasy taking place among God's people. Still, a few individuals have left our ranks, and some among them are bent on defaming Jehovah's Witnesses by spreading lies and misinformation. A few work with other groups in organized resistance to pure worship. In doing so, they side with the very first apostate, Satan.
8, 9. How is apostasy manifesting itself today?
Christians can exchange ideas without becoming dogmatic
9 Some apostates are increasingly using various forms of mass communication, including the Internet, to spread false information about Jehovah's Witnesses. As a result, when sincere individuals do research on our beliefs, they may stumble across apostate propaganda. Even some Witnesses have unwittingly exposed themselves to this harmful material. In addition, apostates occasionally take part in television or radio programs. What is the wise course to follow in view of this?
10 The apostle John directed Christians not to accept apostates into their homes. He wrote: "If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, never receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him. For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works." (2 John 10, 11) Avoiding all contact with these opponents will protect us from their corrupt thinking. Exposing ourselves to apostate teachings through the various means of modern communication is just as harmful as receiving the apostate himself into our homes. Never should we allow curiosity to lure us into such a calamitous course!—Proverbs 22:3.
Within the Congregation
11 Consider yet another possible source of harmful ideas. While not intending to teach falsehoods, a dedicated Christian can develop the habit of speaking thoughtlessly. (Proverbs 12:18) Because of our imperfect nature, all of us will at times transgress with our tongue. (Proverbs 10:19; James 3:8) Evidently,
in the apostle Paul's day, there were some in the congregation who failed to control their tongue and got involved in quibbling debates about words. (1 Timothy 2:8) There were others who thought too much of their own opinions and even went so far as to challenge the authority of Paul. (2 Corinthians 10:10-12) Such a spirit resulted in needless conflicts.
12 Sometimes these disagreements escalated into "violent disputes about trifles," disrupting the peace of the congregation. (1 Timothy 6:5; Galatians 5:15) Of those who caused these arguments, Paul wrote: "If any man teaches other doctrine and does not assent to healthful words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, nor to the teaching that accords with godly devotion, he is puffed up with pride, not understanding anything, but being mentally diseased over questionings and debates about words. From these things spring envy, strife, abusive speeches, wicked suspicions."—1 Timothy 6:3, 4.
13 Happily, in apostolic times the majority of Christians were faithful and remained focused on the work of declaring the good news of God's Kingdom. They were busy looking after "orphans and widows in their tribulation" and kept themselves "without spot from the world," not wasting their time on futile debates about words. (James 1:27) They avoided "bad associations" even within the Christian congregation in order to safeguard their spirituality.1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Timothy 2:20, 21.
14 Similarly, the situations described in paragraph 11 are not typical of the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses today. Still, we do well to acknowledge the potential for such futile debates. Of course, it is normal to discuss Bible accounts or wonder about aspects of the promised new world that have not as yet been revealed. And there is nothing wrong with exchanging ideas on personal matters, such as dress and grooming or choice of entertainment. However, if we become dogmatic about our ideas and take offense when others do not agree with us, the congregation may end up becoming divided over minor issues. What begins as harmless small talk may become harmful indeed.
Guarding Our Trust
15 The apostle Paul warns: "The inspired utterance says definitely that in later periods of time some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances and teachings of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) Yes, harmful ideas pose a real threat. Understandably, Paul entreated his dear friend
Timothy: "O Timothy, guard what is laid up in trust with you, turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy and from the contradictions of the falsely called 'knowledge.' For making a show of such knowledge some have deviated from the faith." -1 Timothy 6:20, 21.
16 How can we today benefit from this loving warning? Timothy was given a trust—something valuable to care for and protect. What was it? Paul explains: "Keep holding the pattern of healthful words that you heard from me with the faith and love that are in connection with Christ Jesus. This fine trust guard through the holy spirit which is dwelling in us." (2 Timothy 1:13, 14) Yes, Timothy's trust included the "healthful words," "the teaching that accords with godly devotion." (1 Timothy 6:3) In harmony with these words, Christians today are determined to protect their faith and the body of truth with which they have been entrusted.
17 Guarding that trust includes cultivating such things as good Bible-study habits and perseverance in prayer, while working "what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith." (Galatians 6:10; Romans 12:11-17) Paul further admonishes: "Pursue righteousness, godly devotion, faith, love, endurance, mildness of temper. Fight the fine fight of the faith, get a firm hold on the everlasting life for which you were called and you offered the fine public declaration in front of many witnesses." (1 Timothy 6:11, 12) Paul's use of such phrases as "fight the fine fight" and "get a firm hold" makes it clear that we must actively and determinedly resist spiritually harmful influences.
The Need for Discernment
18 Of course, in fighting the fine fight of the faith, discernment is needed.
(Proverbs 2:11; Philippians 1:9) For instance, it would be unreasonable to distrust all secular information. (Philippians 4:5; James 3:17) Not all human ideas conflict with God's Word. Jesus alluded to the need for sick people to consult a qualified physician—a secular profession. (Luke 5:31) Despite the relatively primitive nature of medical treatment in Jesus' day, he acknowledged that there was some benefit to be derived from a physician's help. Christians today display balance in the matter of secular information, but they resist exposure to any that might be harmful to them spiritually.
19 Discernment is also vital on the part of elders when called upon to assist those who speak unwisely. (2 Timothy 2:7) At times, congregation members may get caught up in disputes about trifles and speculative arguments. To protect the unity of the congregation, elders should be quick to address such problems. At the same time, they avoid imputing wrong motives to their brothers and are not overhasty to view them as apostates.
20 Paul described the spirit in which assistance is to be given. He said: "Brothers, even
19, 20. (a) How do elders act with discernment when assisting those who speak unwisely? (b) How does the congregation deal with those who insist on promoting false teachings?
What Did We Learn?
How may secular wisdom pose a threat to our spirituality?
What can we do to protect ourselves from harmful apostate information?
What kind of speech should be avoided within the congregation?
How is Christian balance displayed when dealing with today's superabundance of information?
though a man takes some false step before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness." (Galatians 6:1) Speaking specifically about Christians who struggle with doubts, Jude wrote: "Continue showing mercy to some that have doubts; save them by snatching them out of the fire." (Jude 22, 23) Of course, if after repeated admonitions someone insists on promoting false teachings, elders need to take decisive action in order to protect the congregation.—1 Timothy 1:20; Titus 3:10, 11.
Filling Our Minds With Praiseworthy Things
21 The Christian congregation shuns harmful words that "spread like gangrene." (2 Timothy 2:16, 17; Titus 3:9) This is true whether such words reflect misleading secular "wisdom," the propaganda of apostates, or thoughtless talk within the congregation. While a healthy desire to learn new things can be beneficial, unbridled curiosity could expose us to harmful ideas. We are not ignorant of Satan's designs. (2 Corinthians 2:11) We know that he is making great efforts to distract us so as to slow us down in our service to God.
22 As fine ministers, let us firmly uphold godly teaching. (1 Timothy 4:6) May we make wise use of our time by being selective about the information we choose to take in. Then we will not be easily shaken by Satan-inspired propaganda. Yes, let us keep considering "whatever things are true, whatever things are of serious concern, whatever things are righteous, whatever things are chaste, whatever things are lovable, whatever things are well spoken of, whatever virtue there is and whatever praiseworthy thing there is." If we fill our minds and hearts with such things, the God of peace will be with us.—Philippians 4:8, 9.
22. About what should we be selective, and with what should we fill our minds?
HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT HAS TO SAY
"Your own ears will hear a word behind you saying: 'This is the way. Walk in it, you people,' in case you people should go to the right or in case you should go to the left."—ISAIAH 30:21.
THE island of Puerto Rico is the home of the world's largest and most sensitive single-dish radio telescope. For decades, scientists have been hoping to receive messages from extraterrestrial life, using this huge instrument. But no such messages have ever been received. Ironically, though, there are clear messages from outside the human realm that any of us can receive at any time—without the use of sophisticated equipment. These come from a Source far loftier than any imagined extraterrestrial. Who is the Source of
such communications, and who are receiving them? What do the messages say?
2 The Bible record contains several accounts of occasions when messages of divine origin were made audible to human ears. Sometimes these messages were delivered by spirit creatures serving as God's messengers. (Genesis 22:11, 15; Zechariah 4:4, 5; Luke 1:26-28) On three occasions, Jehovah's own voice was heard. (Matthew 3:17; 17:5; John 12:28, 29) God also spoke through human prophets, many of whom wrote down what he inspired them to say. Today, we have the Bible, which includes a written record of many of these communications, as well as the teachings of Jesus and his disciples.
(Hebrews 1:1, 2) Jehovah has indeed been transmitting information to his human creatures.
3All these inspired messages from God reveal little about the physical universe. They focus on more important matters, which have an impact on our life now and in the future. (Psalm 19:7-11; 1 Timothy 4:8) Jehovah uses them to communicate his will and offer us his guidance. They are one way that the words of the prophet Isaiah are being fulfilled: "Your own ears will hear a word behind you saying: 'This is the way. Walk in it, you people,' in case you people should go to the right or in case you should go to the left." (Isaiah 30: 21) Jehovah does not force us to listen to his "word." It is up to us to follow God's direction and walk in his way. For that reason the Scriptures admonish us to listen to communications from Jehovah. In the book of Revelation, the encouragement to "hear what the spirit says" appears seven times.—Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22.
4 Today, Jehovah does not speak to us directly from the heavenly realm. Even in Bible times, these supernatural communications were rare events, sometimes separated by centuries. Throughout history, Jehovah has most
What is the purpose of God's messages, and what is expected of us?
Is it reasonable in our day to expect God to communicate directly from heaven?
IN OUR NEXT ISSUE
The Gospels—History or Myth?
Pay Attention to God's Prophetic Word for Our Day
often communicated with his people in more indirect ways. Such is the case in our day. Let us consider three ways in which Jehovah communicates with us today.
A Luxuriant Olive Tree in the House of God
"All Scripture Is Inspired"
5 The principal instrument of communication between God and humans is the Bible. It is inspired by God, and everything in it can prove beneficial to us. (2 Timothy 3:16) The Bible abounds with examples of real people who exercised their free will in deciding whether to listen to Jehovah's voice or not. Such examples remind us why it is vital to listen to what the spirit of God says. (1 Corinthians 10:11) The Bible also contains practical wisdom, giving us counsel for times when we are confronted with decisions in life. It is as if God were behind us, speaking in our ear the words: "This is the way. Walk in it."
In order to hear what the spirit says through the pages of the Bible, we must read it regularly. The Bible is not just a well-written, popular book, one of many available today. The Bible is spirit-inspired and contains the thoughts of God. Hebrews 4:12 says: "The word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword and pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints and their marrow, and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart." As we read the Bible, its contents pierce into our inner thoughts and motivations like a sword, revealing the degree to which our lives conform to God's will.
7 The "thoughts and intentions of the heart" can change as time passes and as we are affected by our experiences in life—both pleasant and difficult. If we do not constant-
What is Jehovah's principal instrument of communication today, and how can we benefit from it?
Why is the Bible far superior to all other writings?
Why is Bible reading vital, and we are encouraged to engage in it how often?
ly study the Word of God, our thoughts, attitudes, and emotions will no longer be in harmony with godly principles. Hence, the Bible admonishes us: "Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are." (2 Corinthians 13:5) If we are to continue hearing what the spirit says, we should heed the counsel to read God's Word daily. —Psalm 1:2.
8 An important reminder for Bible readers is this: Allow enough time to assimilate what you read! In an effort to comply with the counsel to read the Bible every day, we would not want to find ourselves rushing through several chapters without getting the sense of what we read. While reading the Bible regularly is vital, our motivation should not be solely to keep up with a schedule; we should have a genuine desire to learn about Jehovah and his purposes. In this regard, we may well use these words of the apostle Paul for self-examination. Writing to fellow Christians, he said: "I bend my knees to the Father, to the end that he may grant you . . . to have the Christ dwell through your faith in your hearts with love; that you may be rooted and established on the foundation, in order that you may be thoroughly able to grasp mentally with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of the Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness that God gives."—Ephesians 3:14, 16-19.
What words of the apostle Paul help us to examine ourselves with regard to reading the Bible?
9 Granted, some of us by nature do not enjoy reading, while others are avid readers. Regardless of our individual disposition, however, we can cultivate and deepen our desire to learn from Jehovah. The apostle Peter explained that we should have a longing for Bible knowledge, and he recognized that such a desire may have to be developed. He wrote: "As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word, that through it you may grow to salvation." (1 Peter 2:2) Self-discipline is vital if we are to "form a longing" for Bible study. Just as we can develop a liking for a new food after tasting it several times, our attitude toward reading and study can change for the better if we discipline ourselves to follow a regular routine.
"Food at the Proper Time"
10 Another avenue that Jehovah uses to speak to us today is identified by Jesus at Matthew 24:45-47. There he spoke of the spirit-ointed Christian congregation—"the faithful and discreet slave" appointed to provide spiritual "food at the proper time." As individuals, the members of this class are Jesus' "domestics." These, along with "a great crowd" of "other sheep," receive encouragement and guidance. (Revelation 7:9; John 10:16) Much of this food at the proper time comes in the form of printed publications, such as
How can we cultivate and deepen our desire to learn from Jehovah?
Who make up "the faithful and discreet slave," and how is Jehovah using them today?
Jehovah speaks to us through the Bible and by means of "the faithful and discreet slave"
The Watchtower, the Awake!, and other publications.
Additional spiritual food is dispensed in the form of talks and demonstrations at conventions, assemblies, and congregation meetings.
11 The information provided by "the faithful and discreet slave" is designed to strengthen our faith and train our perceptive powers. (Hebrews 5:14) Such counsel may be general in nature so as to allow each one to make a personal application. From time to time, we also receive counsel that deals with specific aspects of our conduct. What attitude should we have if we are really listening to what the spirit says through the slave class? The apostle Paul answers: "Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive." (Hebrews 13:17) True, all involved in this process are imperfect men. Still, Jehovah takes delight in using his human servants, though imperfect, to guide us in this time of the end.
Guidance From Our Conscience
12 Jehovah has given us another source of guidance—our conscience. He created man with an inner sense of right and wrong. It is part of our nature. In his letter to the Romans, the apostle Paul explained: "Whenever people of the nations that do not have law do by nature the things of the law, these people, although not having law, are a law to themselves. They are the very ones who demonstrate the matter of the law to be written in their hearts, while their conscience is bearing witness with them and, between their own thoughts, they are being accused or even excused."—Romans 2:14, 15.
13 Many who are not acquainted with Jehovah can, to some extent, bring their thoughts and actions into harmony with godly principles of right and wrong. It is as if they were hearing a faint inner voice guiding them in the right direction. If this can be true of those who do not have accurate knowledge of God's Word, how much more should that inner voice speak in the case of true Christians! Certainly, a Christian conscience that is refined by an accurate knowledge of God's Word and that works in harmony with Jehovah's holy spirit can provide trustworthy guidance. —Romans 9:1.
14 A good conscience, one that is Bible-trained, can remind us of the way in which the spirit wants us to walk. There may be times when neither the Scriptures nor our Bible-based publications comment specifically on a particular situation in which we may find ourselves. Still, our conscience may sound a warning, cautioning us against a potentially harmful course. In such cases, ignoring the dictates of our conscience may, in effect, mean ignoring what Jehovah's spirit says. On the other hand, by learning to rely on our trained Christian conscience, we can make good choices even when there is no specific direction in writing. It is vital to keep in mind, however, that when there is no divinely provided principle, rule, or law, it would be improper to impose the judgments of our own conscience on fellow Christians in what are purely personal matters.—Romans 14:1-4; Galatians 6:5.
15 A clean, Bible-trained conscience is a good gift from God. (James 1:17) But we must protect this gift from corruptive influences if it is to function properly as a moral safety device. Local customs, traditions, and habits that conflict with God's standards can, if followed, cause our conscience to malfunction and fail to prod us in the right direction.
We may prove unable to judge matters correctly and could even deceive ourselves into believing that a bad act is actually good.—Compare John 16:2.
16 If we continue to ignore the warnings of our conscience, its voice will become weaker and weaker until we are morally unfeeling or insensitive. The psalmist spoke of such people when he said: "Their heart has become unfeeling just like fat." (Psalm 119:70) Some who ignore the proddings of their conscience lose the ability to think properly. They are no longer guided by godly principles and are unable to make proper decisions. To avoid such a situation, we should be sensitive to the leadings of our Christian conscience even when the issues in question seem minor. —Luke 16:10.
Happy Are Those Who Listen and Obey
17 As we establish a pattern of listening to 'the word behind us'—as it is provided through the Scriptures and the faithful and discreet slave—and as we heed the reminders of our Bible-trained conscience, Jehovah will bless us with his spirit. The holy spirit will, in turn, enhance our ability to receive and understand what Jehovah tells us.
As we listen to 'the word behind us' and heed our Bible-trained conscience, how will we be blessed?
A Brief Review
Why does Jehovah communicate with his human creation?
How can we benefit from a program of regular Bible reading?
How should we respond to direction from the slave class?
Why should we not ignore the dictates of a Bible-trained conscience?
18 Jehovah's spirit will also embolden us to face difficult situations with wisdom and courage. As in the case of the apostles, God's spirit can stimulate our mental powers and help us always to act and speak in harmony with Bible principles. (Matthew 10:18-20; John 14:26; Acts 4:5-8, 13, 31; 15:28) The combination of Jehovah's spirit and our own personal efforts will bring us success as we make important decisions in life, giving us the courage to follow through on those decisions. For example, you may be considering adjusting your life-style to make more time for spiritual things. Or you may be faced with important, life-changing choices, such as selecting a mate, weighing a job offer, or buying a house. Rather than allowing our human emotions to be the sole factor in making our decisions, we should listen to what God's spirit has to say and act in harmony with its guidance.
19 We truly appreciate the kind reminders and the counsel we receive from fellow Christians, including the elders. However, we need not always wait for others to bring matters to our attention. If we know the wise course to follow and what adjustments we need to make in our attitude and conduct in order to please God, let us act. Jesus said: "If you know these things, happy you are if you do them."—John 13:17.
20 Clearly, in order to know how to please God, Christians do not need to hear a literal voice from heaven, nor do they need to receive an angelic visit. They are blessed with having God's written Word and loving guidance through his anointed class on earth. If they carefully heed this 'word behind them' and follow the guidance of their Bible-trained conscience, they will be successful in doing God's will. Then they will surely see the apostle John's promise fulfilled: "He that does the will of God remains forever."—1 John 2:17.
18, 19. How can Jehovah's guidance benefit us in both our ministry and our personal life?
What blessing comes to those who listen to 'the word behind them?'
Happy Family Life Draws Others to God
EHOVAH blessed Joseph with great wisdom and discernment. (Acts 7:10) As a result, Joseph's insight "proved to be good in the eyes of Pharaoh and of all his servants." - Genesis 43:37
woman: "This is the 'magic' that my husband and I use to 'tame' each other, and that is why we love each other very much." A Bible study was started, and the woman quickly progressed to the point
Similarly today, Jehovah gives his people insight and discernment through their study of the Bible. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) This wisdom and discernment produce good fruit-
age as Bible-based counsel is applied. Their good conduct has often 'proved to be good in the eyes of those who observe it,' as the following experiences from Zimbabwe illustrate.
A woman had neighbors who were Jehovah's Witnesses. Although she did not like the Witnesses, she admired their conduct, especially their home
and the woman quickly progressed to the point of symbolizing her dedication to Jehovah by water immersion.
Two special pioneers assigned to a small con-
ial pioneers assigned to a small congregation near the northeastern border of Zimbabwe and Mozambique did not go out in the door-to-door ministry for two weeks. Why? Because people were coming to them to listen to what they had to say. One of the pioneers relates how this came about: "We were traveling nine miles to conduct a weekly home Bible study with an interested person. It was not easy for us to reach this
conduct, especially their home life. She observed that the husband and wife had a very good relationship and that their children were obedient. She particularly noted that the husband dearly loved his wife.
A common belief in some African cultures is that if a husband loves his wife, the wife must have used magic to "tame" him. So the woman approached the Witness wife and asked her: "Would you please give me the magic you gave to your husband so that my husband would love me as much as yours loves you?" The Witness answered: "Oh, yes. I will bring it to you tomorrow
not easy for us to reach this area. We had to walk through mud, and we had to cross flooding rivers that came up to our necks. This involved balancing our clothes and shoes on our heads, navigating the river, and then getting dressed
again on the other side.
"The interested person's neighbors were very impressed with our zeal. Among those who took notice was the leader of a local religious organization. He said to his followers: 'Don't you want to be zealous like those two young men who are jehovah's Witnesses?' The next day, many of his followers came to our home to find out why we
afternoon."
The next day, the sister visited her neighbor with her "magic." What was it? It was the Bible, along with the publication Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. After considering information from the Knowledge book on the subject "Building a Family That Honors God," she said to the
were so persistent. Additionally, over the next two weeks, we had so many visitors that we did not even have time to prepare food for ourselves!"
One of the individuals who visited the pioneers' home during this two-week period was the religious leader. Imagine the pioneers' joy when he accepted a home Bible study!
Joyful Weddings THAT HONOR JEHOVAH
WELSH AND ELTHEA WERE MARRIED IN SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA, IN 1985. NOW AND THEN THEY LOOK AT THEIR WEDDING ALBUM WITH THEIR DAUGHTER, ZINZI, AND RELIVE THAT JOYFUL DAY. ZINZI LOVES TO IDENTIFY THE WEDDING GUESTS AND ESPECIALLY ENJOYS PICTURES OF HER MOTHER DRESSED SO BEAUTIFULLY.
THE wedding started with a marriage talk given in a community hall in Soweto. Then a choir of Christian youths sang songs of praise to God in four-part harmony. Next, the guests enjoyed a meal while a music tape of Kingdom melodies played softly in the background. No alcoholic beverages were served, and there was no loud music or dancing. Instead, the guests enjoyed associating together and congratulating the couple. Altogether the proceedings lasted about three hours. "It was a wedding that will always bring me fond memories," recalled Raymond, a Christian elder.
At the time of their wedding, Welsh and Elthea were volunteer workers at the South Africa branch of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. They could not afford more than a modest wedding. Some Christians have chosen to leave the full-time ministry and get secular jobs in order to cover the expenses of an elaborate wedding. However, Welsh and Elthea have no regrets that they chose to have a modest wedding because it allowed them to continue serving God as full-time ministers until the birth of Zinzi.
What, though, if a couple should choose to have secular music and dancing at their wedding? What if they decide to provide wine or other alcoholic beverages? What if they can afford a large and elaborate wedding? How can they make sure that the event will
turn out to be a happy occasion that befits worshipers of God? Such questions need careful consideration, for the Bible commands: "Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God's glory." —1 Corinthians 10:31.
Avoiding Revelry
It is hard to imagine a joyless wedding. There is a much greater danger in going to the other extreme and having too much unrestrained revelry. At many non-Witness weddings, things take place that dishonor God. For example, the use of alcohol to the point of intoxication is common. Sadly, this has even happened at some Christian weddings.
The Bible warns that "intoxicating liquor is boisterous." (Proverbs 20:1) The Hebrew word translated "boisterous" means to "make a loud noise." If alcohol can make one person noisy, imagine what it can do to a large crowd of people who get together and drink too much! Obviously, such occasions can easily degenerate into "drunken bouts, revelries, and things like these," which are listed in the Bible as "works of the flesh." Such practices disqualify any who are unrepentant from inheriting everlasting life under the rule of God's Kingdom.-Galatians 5:19-21.
The Greek word for "revelry" was used to describe a noisy street procession of semidrunk youths who sang, danced, and played music.
If alcohol flows too freely at a wedding, and if there is loud music and wild dancing, there is a real danger that the occasion will turn into something like a revelry. In such an atmosphere, weak ones may easily fall into temptation and commit other works of the flesh such as "fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct, [or succumb to] fits of anger." What can be done to prevent such works of the flesh from marring the joy of a Christian wedding? To answer that question, let us consider what the Bible says about a certain wedding.
A Wedding That Jesus Attended
Jesus and his disciples were invited to attend a wedding in Cana of Galilee. They accepted the invitation, and Jesus even contributed to the joy of the occasion. When the wine ran short, he miraculously produced an extra supply of the finest quality. After the wedding, what remained over no doubt served the needs of the grateful bridegroom and his family for a time.—John 2:3-11.
There are several lessons we can learn from the wedding attended by Jesus. First, Jesus and his disciples did not crash the marriage feast. The Bible specifically states that they were invited. (John 2:1, 2) Likewise, in two illustrations of marriage feasts, Jesus repeatedly spoke of the guests as being present because they were invited.—Matthew 22:2-4, 8, 9; Luke 14:8-10.
In some lands it is customary for everyone in the community to feel free to attend a wedding feast whether invited or not. However, this can lead to financial hardship. A couple who are not wealthy may go into debt in order to ensure that there is enough food and drink for an unlimited crowd. Therefore, if a Christian couple decide on having a modest reception with a specific number of guests, this should be understood and respected by fellow Christians who are not invited. A man who got married in Cape Town, South Africa, recalls inviting 200 guests to his wedding. However, 600 turned up, and they quickly ran out of food. Among the uninvited ones was a busload of visitors who happened to be touring Cape Town on the weekend of the wedding. The conductor of this bus tour was a distant relative of the bride and believed that it was his right to bring along the whole group without even consulting the bride or groom!
Unless it has been stated that a reception is open to all, a true follower of Jesus would avoid attending a wedding reception uninvited and partaking of food and drink provided for the invited guests. Those tempted to go uninvited should ask themselves, 'Would my attending this wedding feast not show a lack of love for the newlyweds? Would I not cause inconvenience and detract from the joy of the occasion?' Rather than take offense at not being invited, an understanding Christian may lovingly send a message to congratulate the couple and wish them Jehovah's blessing. He may even consider helping the couple by sending a gift to add to the happiness of their wedding day.—Ecclesiastes 7:9; Ephesians 4:28.
Who Is Responsible?
In parts of Africa, it is customary for older relatives to take over the wedding arrangements. Couples may feel grateful for this, since it relieves them of the financial obligations. They may feel that it also relieves them of responsibility for anything that might happen. However, before accepting any form of help from well-meaning relatives, a couple should be sure that their personal wishes will be respected.
Though Jesus was God's Son who "came down from heaven," there is no indication that he took over and directed most matters at the wedding in Cana. (John 6:41) Rather, the Bible account tells us that someone else was appointed to act as "the director of the feast." (John 2:8) This man, in turn, was answerable to the new family head, namely the bridegroom.—John 2:9, 10.
Christian relatives should respect the Godappointed head of the new family.
(Colossians 3:18-20) He is the one who should assume responsibility for what takes place at his wedding. Naturally, a bridegroom should be reasonable and, if possible, accommodate the wishes of his bride, his parents, and his in laws. Still, if relatives insist on arranging matters contrary to the wishes of the couple, then the couple might have to refuse their help graciously and pay for their own mod-
weddings. It would appear that among God's faithful servants of Bible times, dancing was incidental and not the main feature of their weddings. Can we learn anything from this?
At some Christian weddings in Africa, powerful electronic sound systems are used. The music can be so loud that guests cannot converse in comfort. Sometimes there is an obvious shortage of food but no shortage
of dancing that easily becomes un-
est wedding. In this way nothing will take place that leaves the couple with unpleasant memories. For example, at a Christian wedding in Africa, an unbelieving relative who acted as master of ceremonies made a toast to the dead ancestors!
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