The Watchtower, March 1, 1922
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Upon the eirih djstn^ of nations with perplexity; the sea and the waves (the rootle1-’, dhrnntented) roaring; men’s hearts failing them for fear ^nd for looking to the things corning upon the earth (society); for the powers of the heavens (ei c csi .sLicism miau hp shaken. . , . When ye see these things begin to come to pa’s, then know that the K’-j tom uf God is at hand. Look up, lift up your heads, rejoice, for you. redemption draweth nigh.—Matt 24:33; Mark 13 29, Luke 21 25-^L
THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS journal la one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or "Seminary Extension”, now being presented in ail parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower. Bible & Tract Society, chartered A. D. 1S84, “For the Promotion of Christian Knowledge”. It not only serves as a class room where Bible students may meet in the study of the divine Word but also as a channel of communication through which they may be reached with announcements of the Society’s conventions and of the coming of its tiaveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims”, and refreshed with reports of its conventions.
Our “Eerean Lessons” are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society’s published Studies most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to ail who would meut the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz., FerM Dei Minister (V. D. M.), which translated into English is Munster of God's IJ'oid. Our treatment of the International Sunday School Lessons is specially for the older Bible students and tench0.s. By some this featuie 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 1:33; 1 Timothy 2 . G) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: Ills ; 2 Peter 1 : 5-11) of the Word of God, its further mission is to “make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which . . .has been hid in God, ... to the intent that now might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God”—“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed”.—Ephesians 3:5-9,10.
It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of men, while it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in the ho'y 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 atlhm, 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 Ills peonle m grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our readers to prove all its utterances uy 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 ace—ever since Christ became the wo:Id's r.cdoemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when Liiii-Iicd. Gods blessing shall <orue “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3: 1G, 17; Ephesians 2:20-22; Genesis 2S:14 , Gaiananr 3'29.
That meantime the chiseling, shaping, and polishing of consecrated believers in Christ’s atonement for sin, progresses; and when the last of the'-e “living stone' ', “elect and precous,” shall have been made icady, the great Master Woikman will bring all together in the fust resurrection . am! the temple shall ne tilled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout toe Millennium—Revelation 15.5-S.
That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man,” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world”, “in due time”.— Hebrews 2:9, John 1 9; 1 Timothy 2 5, G.
That the hope of the church is that she mav be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be “partakers of the divine nature’,’ and share his gloiy as his joint-hcu—1 Jolin 3 J, John 17.24, Romans b.17, 2 I’eter 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 giace , to be God's witness io the woild , and to picpaic to be kings and priests in the nest age.—Ephesians 4:12; Matthew 24: 3 1 , Revelation 1 : G . 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 bands of their Redeemer and his glonhed church* when all the wnlfully vvi'cked v.ill be Uc^lioyed.—Acts 3:19-23; Isaiah 33.
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Edith' 'al Committee: This journal is published under the supervision of : 'i editeual committee, at least three of vlmm have read and appi od as truth each and every article appeal mg in those columns. The naii'e> of the editorial committee are’ J F Rutherford, W F Vln Viburmt, F IT. Robison, G IT. Fisher, E W. Brenisen. Terms to the Lord*a Poor: All Prble students vho, by reason of old age or other in-Crnu y •■'r a1 rers ty. arc urahlo io pny for this journal, will be sanpkc-l free if they send * po'-idi card pach May stating tnci? care and rco’icstmj aucn provision Wo are rot orly wi'Iing. but anxious, that all such be on our list continually end in touch with tna Berean studies.
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Entered as Second Claro Matter at Brooklyn, NY , Potto fflee under ths Act of March 3rd, 1879.
TEXAS CONVENTION
The Intel national Bible Students Association will hold a general convention at Dallas, Tejas. Marib 9. 10, 11 and 12. A number of pilgrim brethren will be piescnt ar.l the r’re-'dmi t of the Society will address the public on Sunday afternoon. This convention will furnish an opportunity for the ii'icnils of Texas Oklahoma, and othei ailjoining states to ha'e a season of peisonnl fellowship together It is expected that this v> ill be well attended, as it is the on>j convention held in the Southwest during the winter. For local accommodations addiess E Telkamp, 4641 Travis Street, Dallas, Texas
PHILADELPHIA CONVENTION
A general con’ention of the International Bible Students Association will be held at 1-bil.iilelph a. l’a , Apul 1'1-16, inclusive This will afToul four dav’ of lellovvslnp together of the hietlnen. many of whom aie expected to ntteml from I’enns’-lvaria and adjoining states On Sunday atteinoon a well adveiiisod public meeting will be held, addressed bv the I le-u cl.t ct the Societj We are advised that live i.ubnads will a.ant sneeiul lutes Furthei mini mation concerning this will appear in Tur W vrcii Towmi. Concerning accommodations or other infoimat'on please addiess G G Calhoon, 6019 North llith Streel, Philadelphia, Pa
Sunday ........-
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HYMNS FOR MAY
.......... 7 2S0 14 205 21 49 28
1 9 8 264 15 331 22 57 29
2 281 9 300 1 6 53 2 3 52 30
3 109 10 178 17 1-11 24 290 31
4 198 11 244 IS 108 2 5 304 ..............
5 91 12 2-13 19 154 2G 202 .............
6 27 13 22 20 81 27 44 ............
I.BSA BEREAN BIBLE STUDIES By Means of “The Plan of the Ages”
Chapter VI: Our Lord’s Return
Week of Mav 7-...........Q 30-12 Week cl Maj 21 ... Q 50 56
Week of Maj 14 .......Q- 43-49 Week of May 2S.......Q 5i-63
Question bonks oil "The D Vins Plan , 15c postpaid
PRAYER-MEETING TEXTS FOR MAY
May 3 CnnisT me Vise “I am the true vine.”—John 15:1.
May 10 . Cubist rar, Foundation : "Behold I lay in Zion ... a ' sui e foundation ”—Isaiah 2S 16.
May 17. Christ hie Hoiy “These thing saith he that is holy.”
—Revelation 3.7
May 24: Christ 'inn Biohteois “My righteous servant shall ‘ justify many.”—Isaiah 53.11.
May 31: Christ the Faithful : “Faithful is he that calleth you.” ' ’ —1 Thessalonians 5 : 24.
AND HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE
Vol. XLIII
Mabch 1, 1922
No. 5
WHO IS WISE?
"So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."—Psalm 90:12.
WISDOM is one of the divine attributes. Divine wisdom always operates in exact harmony with justice and love.
According to the world, wisdom is the possession of common sense and the using thereof in a skillful manner to accomplish the end in view. This is not the kind of wisdom that is always profitable. It is not the wisdom which the Psalmist here mentions.
The proper kind of wisdom is knowledge applied in a manner that will result in the greatest amount of good.
There is a wide distinction between knowledge and wisdom.
Knowledge is that which is gained by instruction, by enlightenment or learning. Knowledge is usually the result of storing the mind with the thoughts of other men. It is a material with which wisdom builds. Knowledge often makes one proud that he has learned so much and therefore knows more than others. Knowledge when applied according to worldly wisdom more often than otherwise produces pride, haughtiness and love for self; hence turns the heart in an unwise course. One who has acquired some knowledge and uses that knowledge in a wise way is humble of mind. One may be a learned person and yet be very unwise. Men of great reading who have filled their minds with w’hat other men have said or written are said to be learned. But it does not follow at all that such are wise.
For instance, it is quite the usual thing for the clergy of our day to be termed learned men, i.e., men who have read all about the history of the world, about the sayings of other men both ancient and modern. When they apply this learning in an unwise course, these learned men become higher critics and infidels or agnostics concerning God’s Word. It was not the knowledge that hurt them, but the application of knowledge according to the worldly standard and not according to the divine standard. Such have become worldly-wise. These Ty Wisdom know not God’.
The text under consideration is a part of a prayer of Moses, the meekest of the meek. To be meek means to be teachable, having a sincere desire to be led in the right way that good may result. In gaining wisdom the heart is involved. The heart is that faculty of the being which induces action. It is the seat of motive and the seat of affection. To become wise, then, means that the heart must be pure. It must be unselfish and action must be induced by love for God, for his truth, for righteousness, and for his holy arrangement.
THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM
Because of man’s imperfection resulting from inheritance of the effects of father Adam’s wrongful course, man is not naturally wise. Wisdom must be acquired. Some are born with greater endowments for the acquiring of wisdom than others. Comparatively few of the human race have ever followed the course of wisdom. The god of this uoild (Satan) has blinded the mass of mankind by false philosophy, false sophistries, pride, ambition, false and faithless religion, and by various other improper means.
The Psalmist v rites: “The fear [reverence] of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. (Psalm 111:10) Obedience to the Lord leads to greater wisdom. Before one can begin to grow wise he must believe that Jehovah is God and is the rew’arder of them that diligently seek him; that his ways are right and his Word is truth. Moses plainly showed that such was his condition of heart. He extolled Jehovah and worshiped him in sincerity and truth. He contrasted the greatness of Jehovah vith the smallness of man.—Psa. 90: 1-G, 16,17.
FALSE WISDOM
To be cunning, crafty, or wily, is not to be wise: and yet this is what the world generally understands as wisdom. Knowledge unwisely applied leads to disaster. Knowledge wisely applied leads to joy and life eternal. This divine rule and its results are strikingly set forth in the Word of God. Lucifer has applied his knowledge in a wrongful way. The Logos applied his knowledge in a wise way.
Lucifer was a creature of unusual ability and clothed with some power, as the Scriptures show. He must have possessed the knowledge of how the human race would be propagated and in due time populate the earth. He knew it was the will of God that man should have dominion over the earth and be a glory to his Creator. Had his heart been right he would have applied his knowledge in a wise way and would have gladly obeyed the divine vill, and his action would have been m harmony theievith. But it is written of him that he had a bad heait; that ni Ins heart he meditated a usurpation of God's authority and set about to usurp that authonty.—Isaiah 14:12-15.
The condition of heart thereby exhibited by him caused Jehovah to change his name from Lucifer to Satan, the dragon, the serpent, and the devil; dragon meaning devotner, Satan opposer or adversary, serpent deceiver, and devil slanderer. He has since been the violent opponent of Jehovah, has attempted to counterfeit every part of the divine plan, and has applied his knowledge to carry out his selfish and wrongful schemes. Establishing a false religion as a counterfeit of the true and seizing the governments of earth, he became the god of this world. Hence the wisdom that is of the world is unrighteous and devilish and contrary to the divine wisdom.—1 Corinthians 1:21-24; 2 Corinthians 4:3,4 "
TRUE WISDOM
The beginning of God’s creation was the Logos. He is the connecting link between Jehovah and all of his creation. His knowledge necessarily surpasses that of all creatures because he is the active agent of God who created all tilings that have been created. In every way the Logos has used this knowledge wisely. His heart being always pure toward Jehovah, it is always his delight to do Jehovah’s will. Because he has always done that which is pleasing in the Father’s sight, his name is used as a synonymous term for w isdom. Being in the form of God, he did not permit a selfish desire in his heait to cause him to usurp any part of the dominion or glory of God; but with delight, and in obedience to his Father's holy will, he divested himself of heavenly glory and honor and became a man, alike in form and nature to sinful men of earth, yet without sin. It was humiliating to become the associate of such vile, imperfect creatures as humankind; yet he loved mankind because he desired to do them good in harmony with his Father’s will.
As a man his knowledge was limited to the sphere of a perfect human being. At the time of his baptism in the Jordan the heavens (higher things) were opened unto him. He learned the divine purpose that he should be the Redeemer of the human race and gather unto himself a bride, the church, and in due time destroy Satan’s power and influence and restore the humankind to that which was lost. To accomplish this he saw that it meant to him suffering and death; yet he said: “I delight to do thy will, 0 my God; thy law is written in my heart”.
When hungry, worn and weary after his long fast, Satan appeared unto him and tried to induce Jesus to us his knowledge and energy in an unwise and improper way. This Jesus spurned, declaring his purpose to be guided by the Word of God, as it is written. He did this because his heait was pure. He loved the Father and the Father loved him. Applying his heart wisely, then, he determined to be and was faithful unto death. This faithfulness subjected him to reproach, to slander, to abuse, to wicked persecution and ignominious death. These things were heaped upon him by Satan and his emissaries.
Was Jesus a learned man? As the world know’s learning, he was not. He never had attended a theological school. No human institution had conferred upon him the title of doctor, or any other title; and this was one of the excuses for heaping abuse upon him and for the charges leveled against him by the Pharisees. Because of his natural endowments, and because he was filled with the holy spirit, his knowledge far exceeded that of the men of learning of his time. The doctors of the law and the inters of the Jews knew- the text of the Scriptures, but they did not apply such knowledge to make them wise. Jesus knew the text and without doubt possessed the wisdom that came from properly applying the knowledge. He did not boast of his great learning, or of his -wisdom, as did the Pharisees and others of the so-called learned Jews. He gave all credit to his Father.
At a feast of tabernacles in Jerusalem Jesus appeared in the temple and taught the people. Imagine how these worldly-wise Pharisees and doctors and scribes must have scowled and manifested a displeasure because of this unlearned one (according to their standard) teaching. They said: “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?’’ Suppose Jesus had been unwise like his adversaries. He would have boasted of his own learning. But possessing and exercising divine wisdom, he said: “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, wfliether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.” (John 7:16-18) Again: “The word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me”.—John 14: 24.
It is written: “To obey is better than sacrifice”. (1 Samuel 15:22) Jesus made the supreme sacrifice of himself and that was pleasing to Jehovah; but that which was most pleasing to Jehovah was the complete obedience of his beloved Son. Jesus knew from the beginning of his earthly ministry that the pathway before him was one of suffering. He went forward. He suffered from physical discomfort. He suffered by virtue going out from him while ministering to others. He was subjected to the greatest indignities at the hands of Satan’s instruments. He might have avoided all of these discomforts and might have exercised his power to destroy his enemies, but that would ha\e been an unwise course 6ecause it was the Father’s will that he should do otherwise.
AVIion he reached the hour of his supreme suffering he did pray unto the Father: “0 my Father, if it he possible, let this cup pass from me: nevcitheless not as I will, but as Ikon. mil”. (Matthew 26: 39) God permitted his beloved Son to suffer. “Though he were a Son, yet learned lie obedience by the tilings which he suffered; and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.” (Hebrews 5:8.9) Thus is demonstrated the announced principle that obedience is more pleasing than sacrifice. Furthermore, this shows that the reverence of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom, and that full and complete obedience to Jehovah, even unto the greatest sacrifice, is the end or completion of wisdom. Hence it is written: “Wisdom is the principal thing”.—Proverbs 4:7.
TWO MASTERS
There are but two masters: The master of sin and death, Satan the devil; and the Master of truth, the Lord Jesus. This great contrast of the two is made in the Scriptures for the teaching of the people of God, that they might properly apply their hearts unto wisdom. Everything written is written for their learning. (Romans 15: 4) It follows, then, that every one is the servant of one or the other of these two masters. St. Paul writes: “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16) It is written: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3), “m whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”.—Colossians 2:3.
To gain worldly knowledge and apply it according to the worldly manner may develop in one cunning and craftiness, but will lead to disaster. To have knowledge of God and Jesus and apply it in the wise way according to the divine standard leads to life and endless happiness. The Word of God is given for the instruction of men in the way that leads to wisdom and to life.
OTHER EXAMPLES
The children of Israel were God’s chosen people. Sometimes that nation pursued a wise course, but more often an unwise course. Had the Israelites been wise, they would have adhered strictly to the true religion, always recognizing Jehovah as the true God and joyfully obeying his commandments. They yielded, however, to the seductive. influence of the other master, Satan, and were led away in unwise paths, embracing a false religion and following after false gods. They had the promise of Jehovah that obedience would lead to endless blessings. (Exodus 19:5) Had their hearts been applied io wisdom they would have been obedient to their covenant; but they were not. Their rulers and teachers and leaders became wise after the Satanic order of wisdom, and led the masses into wrong paths.
When Jesus came to his oven people he found that their teachers and i tilers claimed to be men of great learning, according to the world, and appropriated to themselves titles such as doctor, etc., and that they were self-centered, selfish, and wise in their own conceits. Their hearts were impure. For this season Jesus did not choose any of them to be his disciples. Those whom he did choose wore men in oiduiaiy walks of life, fishermen and craftsmen. They had not attended theological schools. They were unlearned men according to the Pharisees’ standard; yet, with but one exception, they became wise men.
Concerning Nathaniel, Jesus said: “'Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” (Jolm 1:47) Thore was nothing about that Israelite that was cunning and wily and diplomatic. He was a humble and wise man. Because eleven of these did apply their hearts to wisdom, file Lord has made them mighty ones in his kingdom. Their earthly wisdom did not’help them at all, however, to get such exalted positions.
APPLIED UNTO WISDOM
St. Stephen is an example of one who applied his heart unto wisdom. He was not a learned man, but being full of faith and the spirit of the Lord, his arguments were so powerful that the debaters of the synagogue of the Libertines, the Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and them of Cilicia and of Asia, were not able to resist him. (Acts 6:9. 10) These worldly-wise clergymen thought they would soon squelch poor Stephen; but being unable to do it with their own knowledge, and their hearts being impure, the devil imparted to them his v isdom of cunning and wickedness and they sot about to destroy Stephen in that manner. They hired men to swear falsely against Stephen and caused him to be. arrested and brought before the supreme court of their land. In that august body sat what many supposed to be the men of greatest learning and wisdom in all Israel. Those worldly-wise doctors and judges heard the false witnesses testify against Stephen, wrongfully convicted him, and sent him to death.
Stephen’s heart was applied unto wisdom; and because of his faithful obedience to the Lord and the witnessing to his cause, the Lord granted him a vision at the moment of supreme test; and looking up into heaven, he said: “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God”.—Acts 7: 56.
Sometimes a man of learning and knowledge concerning earthly matters becomes wise. Saul of Tarsus was a learned man, but not a wise man during the early part of his life. Doubtless he had an honest heart and his persecution of Christians was based upon the belief that he was doing right. In due time when the eyes of his understanding were opened and he applied his heart to pure wisdom, the Lord sent him forth as a special messenger to bear his name before the gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. (Acts 9:15) Thereafter his love and devotion were to the Lord and to his cause. He went forth as a humble messenger of the Lord and spoke in language that others could understand. He specially avoided using language that his hearers could not understand. (1 Corinthians 14:28) When he went to the friends to speak to them, or when he wrote an epistle to them, he did not expatiate about his great knowledge of Arabic, Sanskrit, Syriac, or any other language except the one they understood. He did not tell them what a great lawyer he was, or give them a lecture on criminal or medical jurisprudence. He did not come to them in the excellency of his own speech and parade his own learning before them; but on the contrary he said: “I am determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. . . . My speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the spirit and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 2: 2-5) This is an example that all Christians would do well to follow.
THE HIDDEN WISDOM
There is a temptation to man to exhibit his own learning before others. This is not a wise course. When we speak or write it should be in such phrase as can be understood by our hearers or readers, that they may be edified. It is quite probable that St. Paul was as learned as any member of the Jewish Sanhedrin; but he did not speak with the wisdom that they spoke with. On the contrary, he says: “We speak . . . not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to naught; but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory, which none of the princes [riders] of this world knew”. (1 Corinthians 2:6-8) The princes of this world did not have such wisdom because they had not the spirit of Christ. Their hearts were applied in the wrong direction. Their love was for the honor and plaudits of men. St. Paul applied his heart to wisdom, his love being for God and for Christ Jesus.
There never was a man in this world who thought himself wise according to worldly wisdom but that was a fool in God’s sight, “because the foolishness of God is wiser than men”; “for it is written, . . . Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?” (1 Corinthians 1:19, 20, 25) The preaching of Christ in the eyes of the worldly-wise is foolishness; hence the higher critics deny God’s plan, deny Ins Word, and deny the great Redeemer. For this reason we see “that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called; but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the [worldly] wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are; that no flesh should glory in his presence”.—1 Corinthians 1: 26-29.
“NONE OF THE WICKED SHALL UNDERSTAND”
More than five years have passed since Brother Russel died, and yet many of the so-called orthodox clergy continue to malign, slander and libel him. It is unusual to defame a man long after his death. When such a course of defamation is pursued there must a reason. What is that reason? Have m mind that there are but two masters, and that the name of one of these masters is the devil, which means slanderer; and his children do his will. (John 8: 44) On the other hand, if Brother Russell was a special servant of the Lord and rendered faithful service, then it would be expected that because of his faithfulness he would be persecuted by the offspring of the devil. Jesus said: “The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” (John 15: 20) It will bo disputed by some even who have come to a knowledge of present truth, that Brother Russell occupied any more peculiar relationship to the Lord than any other servant or follower of Jesus. In him vie find another example of one who applied his heart to wisdom.
What was his peculiar relationship to the Lord, and why was and still is he the special target of the adversary? Let us examine the evidence here upon these points.
Just before the crucifixion of our Lord he said to his disciples that he was going away and would return again and receive the faithful ones unto himself, that they might m due time be with him where he was going. From Pentecost forward Christians have looked for the return of our Lord. St. Paul expressed it as his greatest desire that the Lord might return and that he might be with him. He declared that at the Lord’s return he would not only reward St. Paul with a crown of righteousness, but likewise would grant a crown at that time to all who would love his appearing. Christians for a long time v aited and prayed and hoped for that blessed time to come. AH those who have been specially watching for it had the promise of a blessing, particularly those who should survive that time.
God caused his holy prophets of old to write concerning the coming of the Messiah, but the prophets did not understand their own writings. It was not due time for them to understand. Would the time ever come when the true watchers would understand? Yes; God said to one of his holy prophets: “Go thy way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed until the time of the end. . . . None of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” (Daniel 12: 9, 10) The devil is that wicked one; and, as we have stated, his name signifies slanderer. If we find, then, some engaged m slandering and defaming the name of one who was striving to follow the Lord, and those who are engaged in this slandering do not understand the divine plan, it is easy to determine to which class they belong. If they were wise, they would understand and not scoff. If they are other than wise, they cannot understand.
THE WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND
Daniel the prophet is caused to utter the key words by which the “time of the end” may be definitely located. He wrote prophecy, which means that the spirit of Jehovah operating upon Daniel’s mind caused him to describe certain events that would take place in the future, and when these events come to pass such would be conclusive proof that the time foreshadowed by him had arrived. Daniel wrote in advance the history of several world powers from Babylon until the “time of the end”, which latter time he marked thus: “At the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him; and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over. He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.”—Daniel 11: 40, 41.
The fulfillment of this prophecy fixes the beginning of the “time of the end” because the prophecy .so states. The king of the south here mentioned refers to Egypt; while the king of the north refers to Great Britain, which was then an integral part of what had been the Boman empire. Napoleon, fighting his battles in Egypt, gained great victories; but at the same time the British, under the leadership of Lord Nelson, were making an effective attack upon Napoleon’s forces at sea. This campaign began in 1798 and Napoleon finished it and returned October 1, 1799. Therefore 1799 is marked as the beginning of the “time of the end”.
Still another method is given by Jehovah to Daniel of fixing the beginning of that period of time. God caused Daniel to describe in symbolic phrase four great world powers, which are symbolized by the term “beast”; and the fourth beast is described as “dreadful and terrible”. The three component elements that go to make up the “dreadful and terrible beast” are, to wit: commercialism, professional politicians and apostate clergy, or ecclesiaslicism. This union took place amongst these component elements for the first time in. 539 A. D., at the time of the overthrow of the Ostrogothic monarchy, and was followed shortly by terrible persecution of Christians. The Lord showed Daniel that from the time of this union or formation of the “dreadful and terrible beast” to the “time of the end” would be 1260 years; thereby marking 1799 again as the date of the “time of the end”.
Mark now that the second appearing of the Lord is the chief thing discussed in Daniel’s prophecy in the twelfth chapter. The coming of the Messiah is the most blessed time for which Christians have looked forward. The Lord gave to Daniel the key by which it could be determined when that blessed time should begin. He caused him to write: “Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days”—symbolic days, or 1335 literal years. Counting the time, of course, from 539 A. D., the point from which the terrible beast began its operations, forward 1335 years, brings us to 1874, the blessed time for which the watchers were asked to wait. At this time the Lord was due to be present.
Fulfilled prophecy consists of historical and physical facts, which are indisputable. Such facts never stultify themselves. While we have a line of Bible chronology showing the presence of the Lord due in 1874, even if wo did not have this the evidence given by fulfilled prophecy clearly marks the date of the Lord’s second presence. Having now in mind God’s unchangeable promise, that during the “time of the end” the wise should understand, and added to that the testimony of St. Paul that greater light would bo given to the watchers at the end of the age, it is to be expected that some one in the world, waiting and watching for the coming of the Lord, would be numbered among the wise.
KNOWN BY THEIR FRUITS
Like fulfilled prophecy, circumstantial evidence is one of the most conclusive ways of making proof of a question at issue. If, then, we find the circumstances around a certain person that exactly fit conditions foretold in prophecy, the fulfillment of the prophecy shows the time definitely; while the circumstances in connection therewith locate the person or persons in connection with the matter.
There lived in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, in the early seventies a young man engaged in the mercantile business, by the name of Charles Taze Russell. He was fully consecrated to the Lord. He was not a learned man as the world terms learning. He was not a university graduate; yet he was a careful student and a diligent searcher for truth. Above all, he was applying his heart in the direction of knowing the Lord. He was taking a proper course in order to be wise. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” (Matthew 7: 20) While he watched and studied, waited and prayed, the Lord further illuminated his mind; and it was about 1875 when he became convinced of the second presence of the Lord, and in 1877 he wrote, published and widely distributed a booklet entitled “The Object and Manner of Our Lord’s -Return”. We believe without question that this was the first publication that ever announced the Lord’s second presence.
In 1879 ho began the publication of The Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence, the subtitle expressing his confidence in the fact that the Lord was then present. Since then The Watch Tower has continued to be published regularly and is the only paper that has ever persistently and consistently announced the second presence of the Lord. Jesus said: “Howbeit, when the spirit of truth is come it will guide you into all truth”. (John 16:13) Fully consecrated to the Lord, begotten and anointed of the holy spirit, his heart devoted to the Lord, Brother Russell continued to search and write; and becoming convinced from an examination of the Bible that Jehovah has a divine plan which he is working out in an orderly way, in the year 1881 he wrote “Food for Thinking Christians”. In the same year he wrote “Tabernacle Shadows of the Better Sacrifices”. This was the first time that any student, as far as we know, had applied the types and shadows connected with the sacrifices of Israel at their proper place and showed how they foreshadowed the sin-offering on behalf of the world, and how the church in due time would have a part in that sin-offering.
“SOME AN HUNDREDFOLD”
In 188G he wrote and published “The Divine Plan of the Ages”, Volume 1 of Studies in the Scriptures, a more elaborate and detailed statement of God’s great plan of salvation. In 1889 he wrote and published Volume 2 of this series, “The Time is at Hand,” explaining the “times and seasons”, the Bible chronology, the “times of the gentiles”, the parallel dispensations, etc. In 1891 he published series 3 of the Studies in the Scriptures, “Thy Kingdom Come,” clearly and fully explaining the prophecies relating to the coming of the Messianic kingdom, the time of the end, the cleansing of the sanctuaiy. the time of the harvest, the work of the harvest, the deliverance of the church and the restoration of Isiael.
In 1896 he published a small book on “What Say the Scriptures about Hell”, exposing the defamation that Satan had heaped upon Jehovah’s character, and removing fear and dread from hundreds of thousands of minds. In the same year he produced the booklet on the “Chart of the Ages”, explaining the ages and dispensations.
In 1897 he wrote and published the fourth series of Studies-in the Scriptures, “The Battle of Armageddon,” foreshadowing the great trouble which has since come upon the world and which is now in progress. The same year he published,a small book on “What Say the Scriptures about Spiritism”, giving the Bible explanation of the so-called communication with the dead. The Lord had promised that “the path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day”. The light continued to increase, because the “time of the end” was here and God v as fulfilling his promise that the wise should understand.
Because greater light was shining upon God’s Word, Satan was active in trying to blind the minds of God’s people, particularly their leaders. The evolution theory began to get a strong foothold in the churches and amongst the preachers. Higher criticism began to be rampant; and in 1898 Brother Russell wrote and published “The Bible versus the Evolution Theory”, thus exposing Satan’s attempt to destroy faith in the Word of God.
In 1899 he wrote and published in Volume V of Studies in the Scriptures that wonderfully clear explanation of the “Atonement Between God and Man”, clarifying the philosophy of the ransom sacrifice and the sin-offering, and the witness and operation of the holy spirit.
In 1900 he again wrote and published a small book on “Our Lord’s Return”, explaining the matter of Christ’s second presence in greater detail.
In 1904 he published the sixth of the series of Studies in the Scriptures, “The New Creation,” which deals with the call, begetting, anointing and development of the church, and the government and discipline in the church.
In 1914 he produced and published the Scenario of “The Photo-Drama of Creation”, which has had a tremendous circulation throughout the earth.
He had written much in The Watch Tower and other publications which was afterward used m compiling the seventh of the series of Studies in the Scriptures, “The Finished Mystery,” which was published after his death.
THE TIME OF THE HARVEST
Jesus said that the age would end with a harvest, at which time he would be present, and that he would then send forth his messengers to gather together his elect. (Matthew 13: 24-30; 24: 31) It is to be expected that the Lord would have some witness in the earth at the time of the harvest to make announcement of the fact of his presence and of the harvest. Here is some more circumstantial evidence which is proof conclusive; some more physical facts that speak louder than audible words, to wit: It was Brother Russell who announced the time of the harvest and the presence of the Master of the harvest. It was he who first went forth throughout the land crying out, ‘The harvest is here; go ye into the field and labor’. And thousands of others taking up the slogan joined in the proclamation of the message.
Jesus plainly said that during the time of his presence he would have a faithful and wise servant whom he would use to give meat to the household (of faith) in due season. Every one today who has a knowledge of the divine plan of the ages must truthfully answer that he derived that knowledge from studying his Bible in connection with what Brother Russell wrote; that before such time he did not even know that God had a plan of salvation. Every person who today is rejoicing in the light of the truth of God’s Word realizes that the Lord brought to him that truth, unfolding it through the ministrations and work begun by Brother Russell shortly following the presence of the Lord.
Was he a servant of the Lord? No one who knew him and who tells the truth can deny the fact that he was a servant, because he gave his time over to service. He devoted all of his earthly possessions that others might gain a knowledge of God’s plan. He devoted his life from the time of his early manhood until his death in going throughout the earth serving others in the name of the Lord.
A FAITHFUL AND WISE SERVANT
Was he faithful? This question must be answered in the affirmative. Faithfulness means to follow loyally and constantly the course that one starts out to follow, viz., a devotion to the Lord and his cause. Never for one moment did he deviate from the faith once delivered to the saints. He put forth every power within him to remoie from the minds of the people the foul stain on Jehovah’s character placed there by Satan and his emissaries, many of which emissaries paraded before the people as representatives of Christ. He turned on a flood of light from the Word of God and “put the fire out of hell’’, giving its true, Scriptural meaning. He hold ioi th before the people that God is love and that Jesus is the express image of the Father, the great Redeemer of man, the head of the church, the King of kings and Lord of lords. He made clear the philosophy of the ransom sacrifice and the sm-offiering. He preached consistently justification by faith through the blood of Christ alone; sanctification by the washing of the Word and follow mg in the footsteps of the Master. He made clear to searchers for truth the true relationship of the church to her Head and Master. He explained covenants and brought to light the true import of the Abrahamic promise and the restoration of man.
Two great truths had long been hid under the rubbish piled upon them by worldly-wise clergymen blinded by the adversary, namely, the Abrahamic promise and the restoration of man. God used Brother Russell to bring joy to millions of hearts by unearthing these great truths and bringing them again to light He was used to put into the minds of the people a clearer understanding of the divine arrangement than any man of modern times. And why ? The answer is, Because the Lord is present; the end of the age is here, and Jehovah is making true his promise that then the wise should understand.
WISE TOWARD GOD
Was he wise? As the world understands that word, particularly as defined by worldly clergymen, he was not. And thank God he was not. Had he possessed great worldly wisdom, such as that employed by his defamers, the Lord would never have used him. Be it noted that these so-called learned clergymen charge against him that he was not learned in the Greek and Hebrew. That charge is true. The facts demonstrate beyond a doubt that the majority of men who possess a knowledge of Greek and Hebrew take themselves too seriously. They begin to think they know so much that they must bring forth something startling to upset what somebody else has done. They depart from the Lord’s way and lean to their own understanding, contrary to his Word. (Proverbs 3:5, 6) They usually speak and write in such phrase that the ordinary mind cannot grasp it; and this they do hoping to magnify their own wisdom in the eyes of others. Because they believe they have greater wisdom than others they make statements in a dogmatic form, regardless of whether right or wrong, depending on the matter being swallowed by others because not able to fathom this supposed wisdom.
Satan takes advantage of these things and leads them into error deeper and deeper; and if they ever had any faith in God’s Word it is soon destroyed. They have taken the wrong course because of self-love, because of desire for approval by others, a desire to be thought great and wise. They have applied their hearts unto selfishness and have not applied them unto wisdom— not that the knowledge of Greek and Hebrew or any other learning is in itself wrong or detrimental. It becomes detrimental only when one permits himself to become wise in his own conceit by reason of possessing such knowledge.
Brother Russell was not that kind of man. His heart was completely devoted to the Lord. He realized his dependence upon the Lord and joyfully laid all of his burdens at the feet of Jesus. He numbered his days and applied his heart unto wisdom; and the Lord made him wise. Christ Jesus was made unto him wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1:30) To him was the promise fulfilled: “When the spirit of truth is come he will guide you into all truth”.—John 16:13.
The indisputable facts, therefore, show that the “time of the end” began in 1799; that the Lord’s second presence began in 1874; that the harvest followed thereafter and greater light has come upon the Word of God. In this connection, then, let us note the words of Jesus: “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.” (Matthew 24: 45, 46) It must be conceded, then, that at the end of the world, at the “time of the end”, during the presence of the Lord, during the harvest, he would have in the earth a servant who would be faithful and wise. The physical facts show that Brother Russell met every one of these requirements. This prophetic utterance, then, has been fulfilled. Therefore fulfilled prophecy, or physical facts, and the circumstantial evidence are conclusive proofs that Brother Russell filled the office of that faithful and wise servant. He applied his heart unto wisdom.
EDUCATION NOT ALWAYS WISDOM
Ever and anon some one, yielding to the seductive influence of the adversary, concludes that he must, because of his own construction of some Greek or Hebrew word, or something that he has found in secular history, overturn some teaching of the truth; and he is bound to exhibit his own wisdom to others, even though it upsets the faith and confidence of God’s people. Who would be interested in inducing any human being to take such a course that would result in injury to the faith of any of the Lord’s little ones ? Remember again that there are but the two masters, and that Satan the devil is interested in destroying all faith in God and in his Word. Let none of the Lord’s sheep become discouraged when these things arise. They will come periodically and they operate as tests to those who are consecrated unto the Lord. Let each one, then, consider how the Lord has led him and how the Lord has unfolded his truth at the end of the age, and witness these disturbances only as another evidence that the Lord is dealing lovingly with his own people.
Some will arise from time to time who dispute the chronology of the Bible, deny the presence of the Lord, deny the resurrection of the saints, deny the harvest period is here, and deny that the church is the bride of Christ, etc. They will base their conclusions largely upon human reasoning. This is not the wisdom that cometh from above.
Let the indisputable physical facts, the fulfilled prophecy, forever put to silence those who would become wise in their own estimation. If we had no chronology at all, or if our calculations concerning chronology are wrong, yet fulfilled prophecy, circumstantial evidence, is proof conclusive of these great fundamental truths: the presence of the Lord, the harvest of the saints, the end of the world, and that the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Let each one who has the truth ask himself, From whence did I get it? He must answer, I obtained it by reading the writings of that faithful and wise servant who interpreted and unfolded to me the divine plan. Is it reasonable, then, that the Lord would use the agencies he has used during the past forty years to illuminate the minds of consecrated Christians and lead them along the way and then permit it to appear that all these agencies are fraudulent? It is wholly unreasonable. It is wholly unlike the Lord. Then let all who have obtained a knowledge neglect not the applying of their hearts to the acquiring of wisdom by filling their minds again and again with the precious truths contained in the Studies tn the Scriptures and other writings of that faithful and wise servant; and by devoting themselves to the Lord and to his cause.
In our next issue w'o will have something to say about the practical application of the hearts of God’s people unto wisdom.
DECENTLY AND IN ORDER
A LETTER from one of the consecrated states that in the Berean class the leader oftens reads a question, several answer it, and then pass questions back and forth between each other. When the leader starts to speak some talkative sister interrupts him and docs most of the talking. The question is then asked, How should a Berean lesson be conducted?
The Apostle admonishes us to do everything decently and in order. Occasionally a sister is found in the class who is zealous, yet who talks too much, meaning well, but who does not act wisely, creates disorder in the class and prevents others from having a proper opportunity of expressing their thoughts. The correct way to conduct a Berean lesson is this: After opening with devotional service, the leader should propound the question and call upon certain ones for answer, not always the same ones, of course. Where there are as many as fifteen in the class, the leader may call on four or five to express their views briefly, and then, give those opportunity to speak who have not spoken and who desire to speak. No one should be permitted to speak twice upon the same question, unless there is some special reason why the chairman should grant the privilege. Then the leader should briefly sum up, and while he is stating his thoughts he should not be interrupted by any one. Members of the class should address themselves to the chairman when propounding a question and not to other members of the class. It is manifestly unjust for one or two to attempt to do all the talking, and the leader should not permit this, but firmly, yet kindly, say: ‘We will have one speak at a time and speak only once on each question’.
After the leader has summed up briefly, then he may call on some one in the class to read the printed comment pertaining to the question at issue. One question finished, then another should be taken up in an orderly way; and so on, throughout the lesson.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
“WE HAVE NO SUCH CUSTOM”
UE ST ION: In a praise, prayer and testimony meeting where one arises to give a testimony is it necessary to address the chairman before speaking by saying, Dear Brother A, and then proceed with the testimony ?
Answer: Such formality is not at all necessary. A testimony meeting is not a political meeting or business meeting that requires such formality; but the leader should encourage every oue to testify who desires to v ith the least formality possible. When one arises to testify the leader may recognize him merely by a nod of the head, if there are a number present, or by merely calling his name if a small company; and then the one so recognized should proceed with his or her testimony. Such formalities as addressing the chair should not be required in any class. All speaking should be spontaneous and from the heart, having a desire to grow in grace and build up one another on the most holy faith.
“IN JESUS”
Question: In The Watch Tower for May 15, page 153, col 2, par. 2, the statement was made, ‘‘the expression ‘in Jesus’ is not found in the Scriptures,” and I am wondering how this compoits with the passage in Ephesians 4:21, which speaks of “truth in Jesus”?
Answer: The question is well taken. The statement in the Watch Tower referred to is technically wrong; for the expression “in Jesus” does occur in the passage cited, as also in Romans 3: 26—“the justifier of him that hath faith in Jesus”. But, we submit, there is no statement of Scripture which says that one individual is m another individual; and that is the subject of the paragraph referred to. This limitation could have been better stated than left to be understood.
The New Testament writings also malm use of such eipiessions as: “the spirit of life in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:2); “redemption in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24); “patience of hope in our Lord Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 1:3); etc. These are all understandable. But even as regards individuals the Bible speaks of “the sanctified in Christ Jesus” (1 Corinthians 1: 2), “the faithful in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 1: 1), “helpers m Christ Jesus” (Romans 16:3), etc. These must be understood in harmony with the facts. As we have been “baptized into Jesus Christ” ((into subservience to him who is the Head over his anointed body) (Roman 6: 3), so we “are in Christ Jesus” (in the anointed body over which Jesus is the Head) (1 Corinthians 1:30), and consequently “all one in Christ Jesus”.— Galatians 3:28.
“Greetings in the Lord Jesus” or “in Christ Jesus” would be perfectly proper, since they signify ‘in the name of the Lord Jesus’.
AT HOME IN THE BODY
Question: What does the Apostle mean by the expression in 2 Corinthians 5: 6, “While we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord”?
Answer: His meaning is apparent from the context. The following words give us the reverse of the thought which is in verse 6. Verse 8 speaks of being absent from the body and at home with the Lord. Manifestly the one statement describes the condition beyond the vail when our dwelling place will be heavenly; with equal clearness verse 6 speaks of our present dwelling place or condition as being earthly. The localized meaning of the words “at home” as referring to a comfortable feeling cannot be forced into this passage; and nothing is gained if it is. The passage becomes perfectly simple if “at home” is read ‘dwelling’ or ‘housing’, and this is the basic meaning of the Greek text. Word for word the Greek reads: “Knowing that indwelling in-the body we-are-out-dwelling away-from the Lord, . . . and we-are-pleased rather to-be-out-dwelling out of the body and in-dwelling in-the-presence of-the Lord”. Now a third thing is present which fills up our lives in this camping-out condition, and that is: “Weare-ambitious whether in-dwelling or out-dwelling, wellpleasing to-him to-be”. That is, while we are camping out m a tent we are, naturally, not in our eternal home; this is the time for the hope but not the fulfillment. But when we are in the heavenly home we shall not be in a tent; for “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God”. “For indeed we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened; not for that we would be unclothed, but that we would be clothed upon, that what is mortal be swallowed up of life.”
ELECT AND VERY ELECT
Question: Do the Scriptures use the terms “elect” and “very elect” in contrast with each other, as signifying the great company and little flock?
Answer: A double usage of the word very in the English language has given occasion for the playful employment of it among many of our readers in a way not supported by the Greek text at all. The passage which speaks of ‘deceiving if it were possible the very elect’ (Matthew 24:24) signifies merely ‘deceiving if it were possible even the elect’. Jesus spoke of the ‘very hairs of our heads being numbered’. Docs anyone think for a moment that our Master meant by those words to teach that there are hairs and very hairs, differing in variety and kind from each other? Certainly not. He merely meant: ‘Even the hairs of your head are numbered’. There can be no purpose whatever served by a using of the expression “the very elect” as though it meant something different from the elect; for such is not the case.—See Mark 13: 22.
THE LORD PRESERVES JOASH
April 9 — 2 Kings 11:1-17--
ATHALlAH’s bloody reion— jehosheba’s faith
-THE SEVENTH
“The Laid iircscrreth all them
GOO often uses very small incidents to effect his purposes. O"ce he used the tears of the infant Moses to touch the heart of the daughter of Pharaoh (Exodus 2:G) In this lesson he uses the affection of a sister of the murdered king for her nephew, Joash, an infant in arm-, to preserve the isihrnkpn hue from Dai id to the Me=r-iah.
God had made a promise concerning the descendants of David (2 Kings 8:19; Isaiah 7:0, 7; Jeremiah 33:18-26), and all the Athaliahs that ever lived on earth could not make void the smallest promise of God
Between the last lesson and this one came the reigns of Jehoshaphat. Jehoram, and Ahaziah. Jehoshaphat was one of the best kings that Judah ever had, but lie made the great mistake of forming an alliance with the idolatrous northern kingdom under Ahab and Jezebel. And, as was the custom, this alliance was sealed by the marriage of Je-horam, son of Jehoshaphat, with Athalmh, daughter of Ahab. This Athaliah wellnigh wrought rum in Judah.
THE GREAT CONFLICT
Since this story of the preservation of Joash forms one of the links in the chain of Satan’s efforts to thwart God’s purposes concerning the promised seed, ,t nrij be well to remind ourselves of the previous attempts which he had made. In each case the human agent had some personal interest of his own to serve, while Satan had his own great object in view. In each case God interfered to inert the evil and the danger, of which his servants and people were often wholly ignorant. The following assaults of Satan, up to the time of Joash, stand out prominently in the divine record. They aimed at:
The destruction of the chosen family by famine—Genesis 50: 20.
The destiuction of the male line in Israel—Exodus 1: 10: 15, 16; 2:5; Hebrews 11: 23.
The destruction of the whole nation in Pharaoh’s pursuit. —Exodus 14.
After David’s line had been singled out (2 Samuel 7) the devil selected it for special assault.
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