The Watchtower, December 15, 1919

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No. 24

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m n?£Ion!i wlf’’1 Ty'’Ph'Utv • the sea and the waves (the restless, discontented) roaring; men’s hearts failing them for fear and for looking

w- u- J rarih isoriert • for the powers of the heavens (eceiesiasucism) shall be shaken . . When te see these things begin to come to naw

then allow LUal the K.mbaom of ^.od is hand. Look up. lift up your btuds. rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.— Matthew 24:33; Mark 13:29; Luke 21:^5 31

Tseming Cotm®, snd a/wpt ajs©H»».2i: ihz

Vol. XL

Semi-Monthly

Anno Mundi 6048— December 15, 1919

CONTENTS

Annual Report for 1919.......................

Many Friends Shared Ignominy......—

Colporteur Work ...................................

Volunteer Work .......................................

The Golden Age.......................................

Pilgrim Service .......................................

Conventions .............................................

Foreign Field ..........................................

Financial ...............................................

Bethel Restored ......................................

Let Brotherly Love Continue.......-.....

Peter and John Heal a Lame Man.... The Boldness of Peter and John........

.371 .371

.371 .372 .372 .373 .373 ..373 .374

.374

ROCK OF AGES Other foundation can *

no man lay -

A.RANSOM.FOR ALL^

Peter Stands up for Truth and Honesty..378

The Gospel a Message of Joy.

Your Good Hopes for 1920.....

“I will stand upon my watch, and will set my foot upon the Tower, and will watch to see what He will say unto me, and what answer I shall make to them that oppose me.”—Habakkuk 2:1.

THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION

THIS journal is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now being presented in all parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower Bible a Tract Society, chartered A. D. 1884, “For the Pro motion of Christian Knowledge”. It not only serves as a class room where Bible students may meet in the study of the divine Word but also as a channel of communication through which they may be reached with announcements of the Society’s conventions and of the coming of its traveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims”, and refreshed with reports of its conventions.

Our “Berean Lessons” are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society’s published Studies, most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all who would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz.. Verbi Dei Minister (V. D. M.J, which translated into English is Minister of God’s Word. Our treatment of the International Sunday School Lessons is specially for the older Bible students and teachers. By some this feature is considered indispensable.

This journal stands firmly for the defense of the only true foundation of the Christian’s hope now being so generally repudiated —redemption through the precious blood of “the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom [a corresponding price, a substitute] for all”. (1 Peter 1 : 19 ; 1 Timothy 2:6) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (I Corinthians 3:11* 15; 2 Peter 1:5*11) of the Word of God, its further mission is to “make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which . . . has been Md in God, ... to the intent that now might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God”—‘ which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as It Is now revealed”.—Ephesians 3:5-9, 10.

It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of men, while it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in the holy Scriptures. It is thus free to declare boldly whatsoever the Lord hath spoken—according to the divine wisdom granted unto us to understand his utterances. Its attitude is not dogmatic, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only In his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our readers to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made to facilitate such testing.

TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH

That the church is “the temple of the living God”, peculiarly “his workmanship”; that its construction has been In progress throughout the Gospel age—ever since Christ became the world’s Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God’* blessing shall come “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:16, 17; Ephesians 2:20-22; Genesis 28:14; Galatians 3:29.

That meantime the chiseling, shaping, and polishing of consecrated believers in Christ’s atonement for sin, progresses ; and when the last of these “living stones”, “elect and precious,” shall have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the first resurrection ; and the temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.—Revelation 15 : 5-8.

That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man,” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which Hghteth every man that cometh into the world”, “in due time”.— Hebrews 2:9; John 1: 9 ; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.

That the hope of the church is that she may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be “partakers of the divine nature”, and share his glory as his joint-heir.—1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Romans 8:17; 2 Peter 1:4.

That the present mission of the church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service; to develop in herself every grace; to be God’s witness to the world; ana to prepare to be kings and priests in the next age.—Ephesians 4:12; Matthew 24 : 14 ; Revelation 1:6; 20 : 6.

That the hope for the world lies in the blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to all by Christ’s Millennial kingdom, the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified church —when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3:19-23; Isaiah 35.

Published oy

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Please Address the Society in Every Case

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SEND MONEY BY EXPRESS OR POSTAL ORDER, OR BY BANK DRAFT FROM FOREIGN COUNTRIES BY INTERNATIONAL POSTAL ORDERS ONLY (Foreign translations of this journal appear in several languages) Editorial Committee: This journal is published under the supervision of an editorial committee, at least three of whom have read and approved as truth each and every article appearing in these columns. The names of the editorial committee are: J. F. Rutherford, W. E. Van Aiiburgh, F. H. Robison. G. H. Fisher, W. E. Page. Terms to the Lord’s Poor: All Bible students who, by reason of old age or other infirmity or adversity, are unable to pay for this journal, will be supplied free if they send a postal card each May stating their case and requesting such provision. We are not only willing, but anxious, that all such be on our list continually and in touch with the Berean studies.

tn We do not. && * rule, send & card of acknowiedument for a renewal or

x-voiice io &UD»cnoer9. for a new. 9Ub#crlpt/on. Receipt and entry of renewal are indicated within a month by change in expiration date, aa shown on wrapper label.

Entered as Second Close Matter at Brooklyn, N. Y., Postojficc under the Act of March 3rd 1879, and N*<* iS&. Par. J, P L. & R. Transferred from Pittsburgh. Pa

LOCAL CONVENTIONS

Charlotte, N. C., December 25-28. Brother Rutherford and at least two pilgrim brethren will be present. Further information may be secured from Oliver Haverstock, 406 South Church St., Charlotte, N. C.

Sr. Petersburg, Fla., December 25-28. At least two pilgrim brethren will address this convention. Address Mrs. E. F. Wilson, 227 South Fifth St., St. Petersburg, Fla., for further information.

Columbus, Ohio, January 1-4. Three pilgrim brethren will be present at this convention. Address Frank D. White, 147 Winner Avenue, Columbus, Ohio.

PROXY HOLDERS NOTICE

Some of the friends report that they did not receive blank proxies for the approaching election, January 3rd. These proxy blanks were inserted as a supplement in the December 1st issue, and anyone who has failed to receive a blank will be gladly supplied if notification is sent us.

STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES

These Studies are recommended to students as veritable Bible keys, discussing topically every vital doctrine of the Bible. More than eleven million copies are in circulation, in nineteen languages. Prices are net, postpaid, and barely cover cost of production and handling. Two sizes are issued (in English only) : the regular maroon cloth, gold stamped edition on dull finish paper (size 5”x 7J-), and the maroon cloth pocket edition on thin paper (size 4- x 61*1 ; both sizes are printed from the same plates, the difference being In the margins; both sizes are provided with an appendix of catechistlc questions for convenient class use. Prices for both editions are uniform. The leather bound and fine India paper editions formerly Issued are permanently out of stock.

Series I, “The Divine Plan of the Agee," giving outline of the divine plan revealed In the Bible, relating to man’s redemption and restitution : 350 pages, plus indexes and appendixes. 75e. Magazine edition 15c. Also procurable in Arabic, Armenian, Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hollandish, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Roumanian, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, and Ukrainian; regular cloth style, price uniform with English.

Series II, "The Time is at Hand," treats of the manner and time of the Lord’s second coming, considering the Bible testimony on this subject: 366 pages, 75c. Obtainable in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, German, Polish, and Swedish.

Series III, “Thg Kingdom Come," considers prophecies which mark events connected with “the time of the end”, the glorification of the church and the establishment of the Millennial kingdom ; it also contains a chapter on the Great Pyramid of Egypt, showing its corroboration of certain Bible teachings : 380 pages, 75c. Furnished also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, German, Polish, and Swedish.

Series IV, “The Battle of Armageddon," shows that the dissolution of the present order of things is in progress and that all of the human panaceas offered are valueless to avert the end predicted by the Bible. It contains a special and extended treatise on our Lord’s great prophecy of Matthew 24 and also that of Zechariah 14 : 1-0 : 656 pages, S5c. Also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, Greek, German, and Swedish.

Series V, “The Atonement Between God and Man," treats an all important subject, the center around which all features of divine grace revolve. This topic deserves the most careful consideration on the part of all true Christians: 618 pages, 85c. Procurable likewise in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, German, Greek, and Swedish.

Series VI, "The New Creation," deals with the creative week (Genesis 1,2), and with the church, God’s new creation. It examines the personnel, organization, rites, ceremonies, obligations, and hopes appertaining to those called and accepted as members of the body of Christ: 730 pages. S5c. Supplied also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, German, an<l Swedish.

No foreign editions in the pocket size.

AMD HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE

Vol. xl December 15, 1919 No. 24

ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1919

“Thou crownest the year with thy goodness."—Psalm 65: 11.

WHAT more appropriate thing could Christians do than to make an inventory at the end of the year of the blessings bestowed upon them by the Lord during the year past ? It is the time to take a broader and more comprehensive view of our experiences, looking circumspectly at the way we have traveled and considering well which have been the steps that hindered progress and which have been the proper steps, the ones which advanced us in our course, bringing us nearer to.the goal. We are one year nearer the kingdom, and we hope that all of us are one year better prepared for the kingdom and for the experiences that lie between us and the consummation of our hopes.

The year 1919 has passed into history and despite the vicissitudes that have beset the church during that period, it has been one freighted with many blessings. Truly the Lord has crowned it with his goodness. The opening days of the year found a number of our brethren languishing behind prison bars under the charge of sedition, but in fact because of their faithfulness in an effort to proclaim the message of the kingdom. Such a condition was not and is not surprising to the footstep followers of the Master when they remember that it has pleased the Lord to permit Satan’s instruments to inflict persecution upon his followers throughout the entire age. While for the time the experience may seem distressing, yet in the moments of calm consideration it is realized that the Lord causes all things to work together for good to those who love him and are called according to his purpose. Where one member of the body suffers all suffer; and when one rejoices all repoice. This is the spirit manifested by those whose hearts are united closely together in Christ.

MANY FRIENDS SHARED IGNOMINY

True to the spirit of loyalty which marks the church of God, the dear ones remaining on the outside of prison walls slacked not their hands, but with fitting zeal pressed on, advancing the work in the best way they could. That was a time of testing of faith and love, but those who loved the Lord and his cause better than any earthly thing made valiant efforts to advance the message of the kingdom. They manifested a confidence in and love for their incarcerated brethren bv reelecting to office those who went to prison as office-holders of the Society which we all love. And when in the Lord’s providence these came forth, it was a season of joyful reunion and a united effort to continue to make proclamation of the glad tidings which ultimately shall come to all.

The work during the year has been greatly impeded by reason of the efforts of the adversary. Although the war ended more than a year ago, still the spreading of the truth is hindered. Here we are reminded of St. Paul’s statement that the God of this world blinds the minds of many, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ, who is the image of God, should shine into their hearts. (2 Corinthians 4:4) We attribute, therefore, the hindrance of the proclamation of this message to the blindness of the part of many and to the fact that it is by the Lord’s permission. In due time this will be made manifest and all the glory will be given unto him.

Satan is the very personification of darkness and he hates anything that threatens his kingdom. He hates the light of truth because it exposes him and his methods; and to carry out his purposes he has blinded the masses and has many dupes amongst men to oppose every effort made for the advancement of the cause of truth and righteousness. The true followers of the Master, however, are not at all discouraged by such conditions because they are not ignorant of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11), and they know that the Lord will overrule all these conditions and circumstances is due time to his own glory. They realize that the final conflict is on between the seed of the serpent and the seed of promise and that the battle between the beast and the Lamb will now be fought to a finish, and they know that the Lamb will be triumphant, following which the blessings of the Lord shall be bestowed upon mankind.—Revelation 17: 14.

COLPORTEUR WORK

The year Opened under very disadvantageous conditions for the colporteurs afield. The reproaches that had been cast upon the Lord’s people during the time of the great whirlwind made it quite difficult for the brethren to spread the glad tidings by the printed page. Nevertheless, some of them, brave of heart and with a devotion known only to those whose eyes are fixed on Jesus, went forward in the work. The ranks were thin, however, and at the beginning of the year there were only about 150 engaged in the colporteur service. About the first of May the number began to increase and at the close of the fiscal year there were 507 colporteurs devoting all their time to the service and 150 sharpshooters. Notwithstanding the many conditions to retard this work, the colporteurs during the year have put out 139,974 books and we hope that these have brought gladness to many hearts. The number of books distributed is greatly reduced by the inability of the printers and manufacturers to furnish us books, due to strikes and labor conditions. Nevertheless, the colporteurs enjoyed a wonderful privilege in the service; for in addition to placing in the hands of truth-hungry people the printed message, an opportunity was afforded for personal conversation, calling their attention to the great events now transpiring in the earth and giving them some idea of their meaning, and suggesting to them the presence of the Lord’s kingdom.

VOLUNTEER WORK

Since the organization of this Society it has been the custom to distribute free of charge a large number of papers containing.the message of the divine plan, and all the friends who have felt so disposed have been invited to participate in this work; hence it has been called the volunteer work. The adversary, of course, has put everything possible in the way" of this work and by his subtle influence has blinded many good people of the world to the real purpose and object of this work, making them believe that it is for some sinister propaganda purpose. Readers of The Watch Tower know, however, that the purpose of the free distribution of literature is to aid other people in getting some knowledge of God’s wonderful plan for the blessing of humankind. The Society has never engaged in propaganda work; it has not sought to get anybody to join it. Its sole purpose is to preach the glad tidings of great joy which ultimately shall come to all.

Social and political conditions during the year made this branch of the work very difficult for those engaging in it. Notwithstanding, during the year the volunteers distributed free booklet tracts to the number of 900,000. A special edition of the National Labor Tribune was arranged for and issued, carrying two full pages of the message of truth; and these were distributed freely throughout the country to the number of 6,000,000. In the early part of the year the friends determined upon a general campaign in the way of distribution of a tract giving a brief resume of the trial of our brethren who were incarcerated, together with a petition, inviting all order-loving people who desired to do so to sign this petition asking for their release. These tracts, to the number of 4,000,000, were spread throughout the country and in less than a month approximately a million persons signed the petition asking for the release of the brethren, which petition, however, was not presented, for the reason that they were released by the court before an opportunity to present it was afforded.

In many towns and cities of the United States efforts have been made to prevent any volunteer work by the passing of ordinances making it next to impossible. Believing it to be our duty to put forth every possible effort to witness to the Lord’s kingdom and not to slack our hand because we see the door closing, and in view of the fact that there was such systematic effort against the volunteer work, arrangements were made for the use of a magazine, which readers of The Watch Tower know as

THE GOLDEN AGE

Arrangements are made with this magazine to carry in each issue a department devoted to some feature of the divine plan, the purpose being to explain current events in the light of divine prophecy and thus to enable the people in this hour of great stress and sorrow to learn something about the incoming kingdom of Messiah which will ultimately bless and comfort all the groaning creation.

The Watch Tower is advised that some of the friends have been in a measure disappointed concerning The Golden Age work. First they thought the magazine should have a better cover; that the one provided appeared too commonplace. In this connection we would suggest that just at the time the publication of The Golden Age started there was a printers’ strike in Greater New York. Only a few days before, a contract had been made for the publication of The Golden Age and the men who were operating the presses which take the kind of paper and cover used in it did not go on strike. It thus seemed providential that the character of cover and paper had been selected, for the reason that had any other been selected it would have been impossible to start the magazine at all. Thus the Lord seemed to favor the infant publication.

It seems that this is a time for the fulfillment, at least in a measure, of St. Paul’s words: “Ye have need of patience [cheerful endurance], that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise”. (Hebrews 10; 36) Surely the conditions now prevailing are trying to the patience of every one and the opportunities afforded for each one of the Lord’s people to have his patience thoroughly tried and tested are many. Friends in some parts report that they have been discouraged in their attempt to carry on The Golden Age work. To such we would like to say: “Cast not away your confidence;” the time is here now for the testing of your patience and doubtless the Lord is permitting each one to have a test in the outset to determine whether he will slack his hand or whether he will press on, doing with his might what his hands find to do and leaving the increase entirely with the Lord.

“SHALL HIMSELF BE WATERED”

One of the great advantages of engaging in any part of the Lord’s service—the chief advantage, in fact—is the blessing and benefit derived by the Christian. It enables him to keep busy. “An idle brain is the devil’s workshop.” Hence the Apostle Peter admonishes us to “be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour”. One of the great advantages in this work is the personal contact the friends have with the people, calling their attention to the magazine and telling them something about the Lord’s kingdom so near at hand. It strengthens the one who is doing the work and comforts the hearts of those who are sad. The chief purpose, therefore, is not to get subscriptions, but a witnessing to the Truth and a developing of the Christian. However, each one is anxious to get just as much of the message of truth into the hands of as many people as possible. We feel quite sure that after the test of the patience of his people, the Lord’s blessing will be especially upon those who cheerfully endure and that the blessing will be made quite manifest.

Now let us consider the fact that never before has a magazine in such a short time developed such a large subscription list as The Golden Age. Never before has a magazine for the benefit of the public carried so much truth concerning the divine plan. Never before has there been a magazine that afforded an opportunity for so many people to engage in the work of comforting the sad by proclaiming the glad tidings. In view of the condition of stress in the world, we consider it nothing short of miraculous that the magazine has made the wonderful progress it has up to this time. We encourage the dear brethren everywhere to continue their activities in thus giving witness to God’s gracious goodness in providing the blessings for the people which are near at hand. Let us remember that all of the consecrated this side the vail are but a little army bearing the banner of truth to witness to the world, and let us be faithful in giving that witness with a pure and joyful heart, the report from 1 he Golden Age shows a subscription list that exceeds our expectations and the daily increase is very marked.

PILGRIM SERVICE

The Lord has graciously arranged and permitted the continuation of the Pilgrim service through the year. These dear brethren have traveled up and down the country, meeting with the classes and encouraging them and addressing the public from time to time. During the year there have been engaged in the Pilgrim service constantly brethren to the number of 86, besides many others who could take only Sunday meetings, being required to engage in secular employment during the week. The regular Pilgrims visited 6,330 towns and cities, traveling a total of 506,860 miles. They addressed 867 public meetings, the total attendance at which was 107,893. They also held 10,398 class or parlor meetings, with a total attendance of 479,311.

During the latter months of the year there has been a greatly increased interest and a larger attendance at the public meetings, and the Society is encouraged to press on further with this branch of the service. The public seems eager to know something about the times in which we are living and the meaning of all these wonderful phenomena. It is a great comfort to the hearts of many people to hear the message, “Millions Now Living Will Never Die,” which the Lord’s people can confidently announce, knowing that many of the generation now upon the earth shall not pass away, but live on until the Lord’s kingdom is fully established. They have in mind the words of the Master that ‘were not the days of tribulation shortened there would be no flesh saved, but that for the elect’s sake much flesh will be saved’; and that thus these millions will be brought through die time of trouble and have the opportunity of accepting the blessings of life under the terms of the New Covenant. Thus it is a great privilege and a great joy to the Pilgrim brethren to announce these blessings coming to the people. We urge the classes to make special arrangements for Sunday public meetings on occasion of Pilgrim visits, providing a first class hall and thoroughly advertising the lectures.

CONVENTIONS

During the year there have been held under the auspices of the Society more than forty local conventions. It has long been recognized that these gatherings serve to build up the saints in the most holy faith and enable them to keep their minds fixed upon the general convention of the church of the firstborns, to which all are looking forward who have entered the race for the prize of the high calling.

For some time the Society had not held a general convention in the United States; and it was determined in July last that such a convention should be held and efforts looking to a proper place and suitable arrangements were put forth. Finally, Cedar Point, Ohio, was selected as the place, and while little more than thirty days’ time was given for announcement, the attendance far exceeded the expectations of every one. It was thought that possibly 2,500 of the friends might attend. We are advised by the railroad people that they sold for that convention about 7,500 tickets. In addition to that a large number came by boat, automobile and other private conveyances; so it can be safely said that when the attendance was at high tide there were fully 7,000 persons present. Never had such a convention been witnessed by any in present truth; never such a harmonious spirit and keen desire to be a blessing one to another. It is a convention that will always be remembered by those who attended. Beautiful for situation, the surroundings ideal, entirely removed from the influences of the world—here the Lord’s saints for seven days engaged in sweet fellowship together and in listening to discourses on the divine plan from various viewpoints. It was a time of wonderful refreshment and great blessing to all who were there. Indeed, it was good to be there, suggesting to one that such fellowship is a foretaste of the homecoming of the Lord’s people, for which they are longing and waiting.

The little city of Sandusky lies just across the bay from Cedar Point and a large number of the brethren attending the convention were domiciled in private homes there. The convention resulted in such an interest in the truth in that town that a class has been organized there. We are advised that about sixty attend regularly; and thus the Lord used his people to witness to others to make glad their hearts.

FOREIGN FIELD

The world war hindered the work in foreign countries as well as in America. In Canada a branch office was opened for the purpose of serving the Canadian friends and the Lord’s blessing has been very markedly upon it. Although no volunteer work has been permitted, the friends have met often together and have encouraged each other by personal correspondence, holding meetings and witnessing to the public. Ten years ago it sounded strange to hear one relate from the platform that a time once was when it was made a crime to have in one’s possession a Bible. A condition finding its parallel only in the dark ages now exists and for some time has existed in Canada. A censorship was put on our literature upon the pretext that it was necessary during the war; and notwithstanding the armistice was signed more than a year ago, Bible students are still being arrested in Canada for having in their possession Bible literature. Only a short time ago a brother was arrested and thrown in jail because he had in his possession a hymn book which our Society has used for several years, containing hymns that all Christian people have used for many years. In one place a number of the brethren were haled into court because they had in their possession the Berean Bible. Their Bibles, hymn books, and even the memoranda they had written out in the study of their lesson, were taken from them and each one, without any opportunity for being heard, was summarily punished by a heavy fine.

Of course we are not complaining, because we realize that the Lord has power to prevent all these things, but he is permitting the adversary and his instruments to take their own course until his time to act. “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” So we can confidently leave all these things in the hands of the Lord, knowing he will cause them all to work out in due time to his own glory and to the good of his people.

In Germany the persecution of the Bible Students began on the theory that they were anti-German and they were severely dealt with. After the fall of the autocratic government of Germany there has been a great turning to the truth and now where meetings were once attended by a hundred or more, from 800 to 1000 come regularly on Sunday afternoons. There never has been such a demand for the Studies in the Scriptures in Germany as at the present time, and it is impossible to supply the demand. A letter from Germany reports that following the fall of the autocracy, the legislative body of Saxony had publicly read in its session The Bible Students’ Monthly containing the article on “The Fall of Babylon’’, and that this paper was freely distributed throughout all Germany. The people have been greatly humbled by the war and their hearts are an open field for the message of consolation that comes only from the Lord’s Word.

In Russia it has been impossible for years to make any public proclamation of the truth because of the great opposition of the state church. Since its fall there has been a freedom of religious worship and a great turning toward the truth. We are pleased to announce that a branch of the Society will soon be in operation in Warsaw and a large quantity of books and literature will be available there for the spread of the glad tidings in that benighted and sin-cursed country. We should remember that it has been a matter of history from the time of our Lord that the truth progresses only under adverse circumstances. It has pleased the Lord to permit his people to develop in adversity. And all now should rejoice in the closing days of this old order to be privileged to have the opportunity of announcing the incoming of the new and glorious order of our Lord—his kingdom of righteousness and peace.

Reports from Switzerland and from France show a marked increase in the turning of the people to the truth. In fact, everywhere the war, the sorrow, and the trouble have made the people’s hearts more susceptible to the consoling message of the kingdom. From far away India comes the information of increasing interest; likewise from the Netherlands, Australia and South Africa. From every part of the field come encouraging reports that the Lord is opening the way for a wider proclamation of the kingdom message. We would understand, therefore, that while the harvest period of forty years closed in 1918, since then there has been a gleaning work, in which the Lord has been here and there gathering out some of his wheat and at the same time he has had proclaimed the day of his vengeance and the announcement of Messiah’s reign at hand. What a blessed and wonderful privilege it is for the Lord’s people to engage in this work. “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that published! peace; that bringeth good tidings of good; that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!”—Isaiah 52: 7.

financial

It has pleased the Lord to bless the Society from a financial standpoint during the year. As is well known by the readers of The Watch Tower, the Society has never solicited any funds, no collections are ever taken at meetings, the money being provided entirely by the voluntary donations of those who are interested in the proclamation of the message of the Lord’s kingdom. The year opened with a deficit, as shown by the last annual report, in the sum of $4,252.57. We give below a brief summary of the receipts and disbursements, showing the financial condition of the Society at the close of the present fiscal year.

Receipts—“Good Hopes” ............ $183,003.63

Deficit from last year................ $ 4,252.57

Free literature—tracts, pamphlets, etc. 37,912.77

Pilgrim service and conventions...... 28,710.81

Sent to foreign branches............ 35,703.26

Incidentals (including storage rentals, moving of office to Brooklyn, auto truck, show case, etc............. 16,043.42

Office and Family expenses (including rents for office and office workers in

Pittsburgh) ....................... 44,674.26

$167,297.03

Balance on hand.................... 15,706.60

$183,003.63 $183,003.63

Incoming mail, total ................................ 95,478

Outgoing mail, “ ................................ 75,719

BETHEL RESTORED

The Bethel Home is a spot dear to all of the saints on earth. The name Bethel means the house of God, It was founded by that wise and faithful messenger of Laodicea, our dear Brother Russell, as the home from which the message of truth was to be sent forth. In the autumn of 1918 it was dismantled and stood vacant for some time. Many a heart turned longingly toward Bethel, praying that if it might be the Lord’s will it would be restored, so that his people in this land might have one place to which they could look as a temporary resting place in the earth.

The Lord opened the way to restore it and after a few months’ strenuous effort it is with pleasure that we are able now to announce that the Bethel has been refurnished and the offices'moved into it. The decorations throughout have been changed, symbolizing the incoming age. While most of the furniture is plain, yet comfortable, the drawing-room and parlors have been neatly and comfortably furnished. Some might find occasion to criticize the expenditure of money in furnishing these, but it has been thought not improbable that the Lord would be pleased to preserve this place and that in due time some of the ancient worthies would find here an abiding spot. Whatever is the Lord’s will concerning this, of course will be done, but we are happy to report that the offices and home are now all under one roof. In the restoration of Bethel it became necessary to limit the force only to those who are needed and who are actually engaged in the work, because of the limited space ; and an effort therefore has been made to organize this force strictly on the lines of efficiency, all realizing that it is a privilege to engage in the Lord’s service.

A house-warming, or informal reception, was given to the friends of Greater New York. They were received in the store and shown throughout the house and then assembled in the spacious dining-room where refreshments were served and some devotional services held. It was indeed a happy occasion, all rejoicing the Lord had been pleased to crown this year with his goodness and to bring us to its close with the happy thought that all the way our Savior has led us, and that he leads us still. The year has been one of varied experiences, many trials and many joys, for all of which we are truly grateful to the Lord, knowing that he has the affairs of his people in hand and whatsoever is for their welfare he will permit and overrule for his own glory and their highest good.

In view of the fact that both the office and the home are now at one place, we suggest a change in paragraph two of the Vow as to read: “colaborers at the Brooklyn Bethel and everywhere”.

LET BROTHERLY LOVE CONTINUE

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for the other.”—John 13: 35.

CHRISTENDOM nominal is estimated at four hundred millions of people and is represented by more than two hundred creeds and organizations. Somewhere in this great mass the Lord’s faithful few, styled the “little flock”, are to be found; but they can be discerned only with difficulty. We are to look for them everywhere—in all denominations and outside of all. We are to remember that the Lord has not left himself without a witness. But how shall we know these true followers of Jesus of whom it is written: “The Lord knoweth them that are his”? What are some of their characteristics?

Our Redeemer’s words give the key suggesting the characteristics for which we should seek, when he says: “Ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for the other”. He emphasized this thought, saying, “A new commandment give I unto you, That ye love one another as I have loved you”. (John 13:34) Ah! here we get the thought that the church is a blessed brotherhood of all those who not only love God supremely, so that they delight to do his will even at the cost of self-interest, but who also love one another as Christ loved them. He loved them to the extent of laying down his life for them; and they are to have the willingness to lay down their lives for one another. We look in vain for such an organization among men. We perceive various bundles or organizations under various names, all of them professing love but none of them even dreaming of union under such bonds of love as the Master pointed to.

TENDER-HARTEDNESS AND HUMBLE-MINDEDNESS

The Apostle Peter points out that the Lord’s followers should love as brethren (1 Peter 3:8, 9), as proper brethren ought to love. He points out to them that this will mean tender-heartedness and humble-mindedness, and forbearing to resent injuries and re-vilings. He shows that the proper brotherly love would not only submit to all this without retaliation, but, on the contrary, would return a blessing.

Oh, such love! Such a high standard of love! How many of us, how few of us have ever realized the standard of brotherly love that would be appreciated by our Lord, the standard that he demands as a condition of our being his brethren, the standard that he implies in the prayer that he taught us, saying, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us”.

The same Apostle points out that to be of the Lord’s true disciples means not only an exercise of faith in God and in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the forgiveness of sins through him, but that it means more than this: “Seeing that ye have purified your souls in your obeying of the truth through the spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart, fervently”. (1 Peter 1:22) There it is, dear brethren. We are not only to believe and to receive forgiveness of the Lord, but we receive a knowledge of the truth, a knowledge of his will, and then it is for us to put that knowledge into practise, to weave it into our thoughts and words and doings, to obey it to the extent of an unfeigned love for the brethren. It is to be before our minds as the proper, grand outworking of the truth which the Lord grants to us through his Word, the Bible.

“Blest be the tie that binds

Our hearts in Christian love.

NEW AMBITIONS, DESIRES, LOVES

The truth is designed to sanctify; as our Lord prayed: “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth”. (John 17: 17) As this truth gains control of our thoughts and words and doings it will cast out the spirit of selfishness from our desires and create in us new ambitions, desires, and love for the Father, for the brethren, including our elder Brother, Jesus, and this love will gradually become more and more fervent. It will not be merely an outward courtesy, a feigned love, but an inward heart sentiment.

Listen to the Apostle John on this subject: “Marvel not, brethren, if the world hate you”. We are not to expect any special sympathy from the world, but rather expect that they will misunderstand us. But we are to expect something different from the brethren, as the Apostle proceeds to show: “We know that we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren”. Whoever, then, does not love the brethren can not be sure that he has passed from the death condition to the life condition of mind and heart. How anxious we should be to have this testimony of the Apostle corroborating our hopes that we are new creatures in Christ, that we have passed from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God’s dear Son, and from a condition of condemnation and death to a condition of justification of life!

But the Apostle continues: “He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer; and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” Crucial words these for the brethren! Let us not lose their import, their value; let us test our hearts and ascertain our standing with the Lord by our love or our lack of love for the brethren, as the Apostle by inspiration here directs. But the Apostle is not through with this subject ; he caps the climax by saying, “Hereby know we love, because he laid down his life for us, and we ought also to lay down our lives for the brethren”. —1 John 3: 15, 16.

WHO ARE THE BRETHREN?

If by their fruits we shall know them, there are not many brethren of this kind in the world. The early church showed some noble examples of such brotherhood, Jesus himself being the elder brother who laid down his life on our behalf. The apostles and many in humble stations followed closely in the Master’s footsteps and some, we believe, all the way down the centuries, have similarly been found, and some today, we believe, may be found in the denominations and outside of them who have this character-likeness to Christ—but they are few.

The Apostle, speaking of our Lord’s feeling toward his faithful church, says that “he is not ashamed to call them brethren”. (Hebrews 2: 11) Like him they have'consecrated their lives to the Father’s business, the service of the truth, the service of the brethren. Recognizing that God is now taking out of the world a people for his name, it is their chief concern in life to be colaborers together with God in the finding of this elect class and in assisting them to make their calling and election sure. Neither time nor influence nor money is too precious for these to spend in his service. Yes, life itself with them, as with the Master and the apostles, is being gradually used up along this line—“This one thing I do”.

PETER AND JOHN HEAL A LAME MAN

January ii.—Acts 3 .1-16. — —

MUTUAL EXPERIENCES OF PETER AND JOHN--COMMUNITY OF INTEREST IN MATTERS SPIRITUAL—A BEGGAR WITH NOBLE QUALITIES

—BEGGING THEN AND NOW—VALUE OF TEMPORAL AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS—“MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.”

"Freely ye have received, freely give."—Matthew 10:8.

PROBABLY it was not long after the day of Pentecost that the events of this lesson transpired. Our last lesson notes the fact that the believers, filled with their new joy, went frequently to the temple for prayer and thanksgiving. This lesson shows us Peter and John attending the temple service at the hour of prayer, three o’clock in the afternoon. These two had been with the Lord and with each other for now several years. Both had been disciples of John the Baptist, and previously they two had been together in the fishing business. They were also specially favored among the twelve, being with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration, and in the inner circle in the Garden of Gethsemane. Although Peter was probably the eldest of the disciples, and John probably the youngest, and although their dispositions were quite different in many respects, apparently there was a strong element of harmony between them; they both loved the Lord very intensely and they were both of ardent temperament. It was natural, therefore, that these two should be considerably in each other’s company because of special compatibility. While it is well for the stronger brethren to pray with and company with the weaker, sometimes, for the assistance of the latter, it is well also that kindred spirits should come together in communion with each other and with the Lord, as in this case.

AT THE BEAUTIFUL GATE

As the apostles evidently went frequently to the temple, and probably often by the same route, through the “Beautiful Gate,” it is more than likely that the lame beggar, who had long been accustomed to that locality, in seeking alms, had seen them almost daily. Indeed, it would not be surprising if a knowledge of the Pentecostal wonders which had converted several thousand, and been “noised abroad,” had reached the poor beggar, as well as many others of the religious class, who assembled almost daily at the temple. Quite evidently, therefore, the beggar knew Peter and John in advance of his healing. If so, it would to some extent account for his readiness of faith, by which, accepting the Apostle’s word and hand, he was healed.

Why the Apostle Peter on this particular occasion was led to bestow a blessing upon this man we may never know, for it is probable that in that time, when there were no hospitals for the lame and blind, etc., the apostles frequently passed by others as badly crippled and distressed as this one, without proffering aid. It would seem, however, that the man was an “Israelite indeed”—from the way in which he received the Lord's blessing. Otherwise, instead of having a heart overflowing with gratitude and thankfulness, he before would have been in an attitude of discontent, repining at his lot and complaining of divine providence; and in such a frame of mind his attitude after his healing would have been one of complacent satisfaction rather than of gratitude. He would have felt that he had received no more than his due. The connections, therefore, seem to indicate that the Lord’s providence, directed the apostles to him specially, on this account. And so it is with those of the Lord’s people today who are in a right attitude of heart. They will, whatever their condition, find much to be thankful for, and can trace the Lord’s providence and grace in life’s affairs, notwithstanding its trials and difficulties. Such people are the objects of God's care, and have the assurance that all things are working together for their good. The Lord’s providence may not always bring them physical health and strength, but it will surely bring to such the highest blessings which it brought to the poor cripple of this lesson—a knowledge of the Lord and a share of his spiritual favors.

At that time, when there was no provision for the indigent and helpless, alms-begging and alms-giving were entirely proper. It is creditable to the civilization of our day and land, however, that the helpless are provided for at public expense, all property paying a poor or alms tax. It strikes us as being as much wrong to encourage public begging now, as it was right to respond to it at the time mentioned. If the friends of the indigent cannot amply provide for them the public can, and should. And it would be a false pride which would ignore these provisions and not blush to seek others of our initiative and choice.

SUCH AS I HAVE I GIVE

The Apostle said: “Silver and gold have I none”. We can hardly suppose that he intended this statement to be taken literally, for in the preceding verses we have the record that considerable property was sold, and the proceeds laid at the apostles' feet, put at their disposal. But this evidently the apostles considered as belonging to the Lord and not to themselves—as trust funds. We assume, therefore, that the Apostle meant, Silver and gold we have none to give you. but we have something better to give you, something which God intended we should dispense. And undoubtedly what the apostles gave was more valuable than money.

So it is today; we are unable to respond as liberally as we would like to the requests which sometimes come to us for financial aid. The means which the Lord has put into our hands we understand him to intend us to transform in the main into spiritual food and clothing and strength and help, for the sin-sick and lame and for the error-blinded; and accordingly we are sometimes compelled to say, Silver and gold we have little to give; but of the spiritual blessings we are willing to give liberally, without money and without price.

Our Lord’s words were, “The poor ye have always with you; but me ye have not always”. In seeking to be helpful to brethren in the church and to the unfortunate world it is well that all should cultivate a largeness of heart; and yet it is well also to remember that in the cases of many of the Lord’s children adversity has evidently been of the Lord’s intention, to bring to them blessings which they would not be prepared to receive in any other manner. We are to endeavor to be helpful to each other, while seeking not to conflict with the operations of divine providence, and the learning of important lessons by those whose welfare we seek. We should never forget the Apostle’s inspired words.—2 Thessalonians 3:10.

GOOD FOR FRIEND AND FOE

“It is more blessed to give than to receive”. Undoubtedly every child of God has realized the truthfulness of this; God is ever a bountiful giver, and his people, in proportion as they cultivate this quality, generosity, are therefore cultivating a grand, God-like quality. “Do good and lend, hoping for nothing again [no reward] ; and ye shall be children of the Highest”. (Luke 6:35) If we cannot always give much money, or if we cannot give as much as we would like to give to those who are in need, we may always, like Peter, give something. We cannot, like him, give health and strength miraculously, since we are not embued with those apostolic powers; but we can give a word of encouragement, a kindly look, a helping hand over difficulties; and these will often be more valuable than money, and sometimes more appreciated. Even an “enemy” should be fed, if hungry; but neither friend nor foe should be encouraged in indolence, nor in wastefulness.

We notice how distinctly Peter acknowledged the source of his power, and how he was not ashamed of any feature of divine truth. He boldy declared his miracle to be in the name of “Jesus of Nazareth”. He did not say, ‘In the name of Jesus, the greatest of all Jews, the highly esteemed friend of Joseph of Arimathea, and of Nicodemus, one of your influential rulers’; but, ignoring all such human weaknesses, he plainly declared that it was Jesus the Nazarene, the despised one, whose power had healed. We find some of the Lord’s people today far less courageous than Peter; inclined rather to feel ashamed of the truth and ashamed of the agencies God used in its dissemination; for fear that these would be a reflection against it. We sh'ould rather follow the Apostle’s course, and be very courageous and ready to affirm publicly whatever we find possessing divine sanction. Whatever agencies God may make use of in connection with his service we may be sure that he has some purpose, some object in view, and that his purposes will best be accomplished by plain, candid, truthful statements, like Peter's.

THE BOLDNESS OF PETER AND JOHN

--January 18.—Acts 4:8-21.--

THE FIRST PERSECUTION—PETER, JOHN AND THE FORMER CRIPPLE ARRESTED—IN WARD OVER NIGHT—BROUGHT BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN —peter's defense—the sanhedrin perplexed—the apostles forbidden to preach the truth—their Marvelous courage REALLY AUTHORIZED BY THE LAW—THE SANHEDRIN OVERSTEPPED ITS AUTHORITY—WONDERFUL RESULTS FOLLOWED THE APOSTLES’ WITNESS OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS.

“Stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”—1 Corinthians 16:13.

THE commotion caused by the healing of the cripple by Peter and John, and the gathering of the crowd of worshipers to whom they preached, brought upon the apostles a new difficulty. The priests, whose ministries were more or less interrupted by the disturbance, felt a grievance against those who thus attracted attention away from themselves and their services; and the officers of the Temple, whose duty it was to preserve order, were also disturbed. These, coming upon the preaching apostles and the interested multitude, arrested the three men who were the cause of such a commotion, in order that the matter might be inquired into. It was toward evening, and therefore too late to gather the members of the Sanhedrin. The three who had been witnessing for God and for Christ were put in ward, in the prison— not as felons, but for trial.

It would have been possible for the imprisoned men to view their situation from the standpoint of unbelief, and to say to themselves and to each other: ‘God did not approve our work, and hence has permitted us to be thus arrested and imprisoned. Now we know not what the result will be on the morrow; for those who crucified our Lord may crucify us also.’ Or they might have reasoned still otherwise and have said to each other: ‘After all, what right have we to think that God has anything to do with these matters? We are like other men, and have merely found some new way in which natural law operates in the healing of the sick. God evidently is not concerned in this work; for if he were, surely he would not have permitted us to come into these straits while we were seeking to serve him and to declare the good tidings.’ But we may safely assume that the thoughts and the words of the prisoners took a totally different direction. Full of faith they no doubt said to themselves: We know not in what way God may intend to use this which seems to be a disadvantage to us and an interruption to his work. Doubtless, however, he will use it in some manner to forward his cause and to reach more of his people with his truth.’

As a matter of fact the Lord evidently intended through this seeming calamity to bring to the apostles a still grander opportunity of testifying to the truth on the next day, of preaching to a class that they might never again have opportunity to reach—the priestly class, the ruling class, represented in the Sanhedrin and those who would gather at its sessions. When the Sanhedrin opened the next morning, among its seventy members, representatives of the most influential classes in Jerusalem, were Annas the high priest and Caiaphas his son, both of whom had about two months previous presided in the trial of the Master himself. Nevertheless the apostles were evidently not at all dismayed by the dignity of the court, the Lord fulfilling to them his promise, “Ye shall be brought before kings and governors for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles; but when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak, for it shall be given you in that hour what ye shall speak.” (Matthew 10:18,19) That Peter, the spokesman for the three, was supernaturally assisted, is implied in the narrative. “He was filled with the holy Spirit.”

THE REAL OBJECT OF THE TRIAL

It is not amiss here to notice that the Jewish party which most particularly persecuted our Lord was the sect of the Pharisees, the holiness people of that time, basing their opposition upon our Lord’s public declarations of their hypocrisies, the Sadducees taking less interest in the persecution. But on the contrary, in the Acts of the Apostles, die persecutions of the church seem to have been largely at the hands of the Sadducees. The Sadducees should scarcely be considered a religious party; for they denied the resurrection of the dead and also the existence of spirit beings, and hence believed principally in a religion for the present life merely. They were the policy men, the opportunists of that time. They favored harmony with the Roman Empire, and might indeed be termed the politicians of the Jewish nation. History says that the high priest and his family, and those principally in influence, were Sadducees. It is evident, therefore, that the preaching of the resurrection of Jesus, and of some spiritual power by which he could work through the apostles to the healing of the man born lame, would be an irritation to the Sadducees; for it was directly in conflict with their belief and teachings.

Indeed, it is worthy of notice, here and in subsequent lessons, that one of the main features of the Gospel which apostles preached was the doctrine of the resurrection—that Christ had risen from the dead, and that through him in due time not only believers should be raised from the tomb but ultimately all the world of mankind should be released from death, in order that each and all might have a full share in the judgment or trial for life everlasting, which had been secured by the ransom sacrifice of Christ. No wonder, then, that the Sadducees especially resented this new doctrine, which antagonized their views and to some extent supported their religious opponents, the Pharisees.

It may at first seem peculiar that a court trial should be held in respect to the healing of a cripple. However, the object of the trial evidently was to condemn the apostles, if possible, for having practised necromancy, sorcery, the black art. For, according to the law, a witch or a wizard or a necromancer, a spirit medium, was to be put to death.—Leviticus 20:27; Deuteronomy 18:9-12.

THE APOSTLE PETER’S DEFENSE

When we remember that the apostles were illiterate fishermen, unaccustomed to public speaking and to contact with the great and learned, we may well be amazed at their courage and at the straight-forward presentation of the Gospel given by Peter. It astonished the Sanhedrin also. They wished to arraign the apostles, not for the good of healing the lame man, but rather for their preaching of Jesus as the Messiah. If Peter had been filled with fear he would not have spoken as he did to this court. If he had been filled with the spirit of egotism and boastfulness he would have spoken unwisely, rashly, no doubt But filled as he was with the holy Spirit, the spirit of meekness, patience, gentleness, long-suffering, brotherly kindness, and guided in his words by this spirit, he made an address which is beautiful both for its simplicity, its directness and its meek boldness.

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