The Watchtower, December 15, 1922

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Organized Action ..............' ............

Financial Summary ........................

Advertise the King and Kingdom.......

Lesson in Trust and Preparedness.....

The Spirit of Service..............................

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. .. 39:: ... 394 .....394 . .397

Upon the earth distress of lutions with perplexity the sea und the uuvea iilie restless, dbuoiiteiiied) roaring; men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking to the things coming upon the earth (society); for the powers of the heavens (ecclesiasticism) shall be shaken. . . . When ye see these things begin to come to pass, then know that the Kingdom of God 19 at hand. Look up, lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.—Matt. 24:33; Mart 13.29; Luke 21:25-3L

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Vol. NLIII

Semi-Monthly'

Anno Mundi 6051 — December 15, 1922

CONTENTS

\nnual Report for 1922..

Printed Witness . .

Field Organizat khi......

Colporteur Department .

Honor Roll .................

Volunteer Sen ice.....

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

World-Wide Witness ..

Foreign Work ................

38;

3S9

.390

I -will stand upon my watch and will set in the Time', and will watch to see what

THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION

mKTS journal Is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now being A prcsenled in all parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, chartered A. D. 3SS4, "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 ns 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 “T’.erean Lessons" are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society's published Studies most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all ttho would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz., Verbi Dei Minister (V. D. M.), which translated into English is Minister of Cod’s Wotd. 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 : G) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: 1115; 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 Ind 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 alhrm, 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 oui; readers to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made to facilitate such testing.

TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH

That the church is “the temple of the living God”, peculiarly “his workmanship” ; that its construction has been in progress throughout the gospel age—ever since Christ became the world’s Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God’s blessing shall come “to all people , and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:16, 17; Ephesians 2:20-22 ; Genesis 23:14; Galatians 3:29.

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

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

That the hope of the church is that she may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be ‘partaker of the divine nature,’ and share big 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; and 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, th© restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the bands of their Redeemer and his glorified church* when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3:19-23; Isaiah 35.

Published ay

Watch tower.BIBLE TRACT SOCIETY

18 CONCORD STREET <3 O BROOKLYN, N V. ll-SA

Foreign Offices: British: 34 Craven Terrace, Lancaster Gate, London W. 2; Canadian: 270 Dundas St., W., Toronto, Ontario; Australasian: 495 Collins St., Melbourne, Australia; South African: 123 Plein St., Cape Town, South Africa.

Please Address ttie Society in Every Case.

YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION PRICE; United States, $1.00; Canadx and Miscellaneous Foreign, $1.50; Great Britain. Australasia, and South Africa, 8s- American remittances should be made by Express or Postal Money Orders, or by Bank Draft. Canadian, British, South African, and Australasian remittances should be made to branch offices only. Remittances from scattered foreign territory may be made to the Brooklyn office, but by International Postal Money 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 Amburgh, J. tulmery. g. H. Fisher.___

Terms to the Lord*8 Poor: All Bible students who, by reason of old ego or other in-fir.tii :y 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. Weare not only willing, but anxious, that all such be on our list continually and in touch with the Berean studies.

Knfirf fn We do not, oa a rufo. senda card of nciniowlodment for a renewal or

UUlice lU Buoacnocn. fi>r a n«JW’Bub,CXiptj’on. Receipt and entry of renewal are indicated within a month by chance fn expiration date, aa shown on wrapper label.

---. . . . . . . .-------- , ------- ,

Entartd aa Second Claaa Afattar at Brooklyn, N. Y., Put»jietwtltr tha Act of March trd, 1979.

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Complaint has been made that newspapers distort the advertisement for public meetings in various places, not giving the time and place. This is probably often due to carelessness on the part of the advertising committee. In every instance the advertising committee should not only carefully prepare copy and hand it to the advertising department of the paper, but also ask for a proof before it is published, and see that it is correct before it is published. Often the friends merely notify the press that they expect to have a meeting at a certain time, and then depend upon the newspaper man 1o write the advertisement. This should not be done. Where copy is supplied, you will be justified in paying only when the advertisement complies with the copy furnished.

STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES

The<e S'iinu> aie ro< ommende*! h» xiiuhmK as veritable Bible keys, discussing topically every vital doctrine of the Bible. More than eleven million copies are in circulation, in nineteen languages. Two sizes are issued (in English only) : the regular maroon cloth, gold stamped edition on dull finish paper (size 5"x78")> and the maroon cloth pocket edition on thin paper (size 4" x Gg") ; both sizes are printed from the same plates, the difference being in the margins; both sizes are provided with an appendix of catechistic questions for convenient class use. Both editions uniform in price.

Series I, The Diilnc 1‘hui of the Agen, giving outline of the divine plan repealed in the Bible, relating to man’s redemption and restitution . .;.>(> pages, plus indexes and appendixes, 50c. Magazine edition 20c. 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 75c.

Series JI. The J'I me Is at Hand, treats of the manner and time of the Lord's second coming, considering the Bible testimony on this subject: 333 pages, 50c. Obtainable in Arabic, Dano-Nor-wegiau, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Polish, and Swedish. 75c a copy.

Series III, Thy 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: 3S0 pages, 50c. Furnished also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Polish, and Swedish, 75c.

Series IV, The Rattle 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 In the Bible. It contains a special and extended treatise on our Lord’s great prophecy of Matthew 24 and also that of Zechariah 14:1-9: 656 pages, 55c. Also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, Fiench, Greek', Gennan. Polish, and Swedish, S5c.

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; 55c. Procurable likewise in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Polish, and Swedish. S5c.

Series VI, The New Creation, deals with the creative week (Genesis 1, 2), and with the church, God’s new crcation.lt examines the personnel, organization, rites, ceremonies, obligations, and hopes appertaining to those called and accepted as members of the body of Christ: 730 pages, 55c. Supplied also in Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Polish, aud Swedish, 85c.

Series VII, The Finished Mystery, consists of a verse-by-verse explanation of the Bible books of Revelation, Song of Solomon, and Ezekiel: 608 pages, illustrated, 55c in cloth, 25c in magazine edition—latter treats Revelation and Ezekiel only. Dano-Norwegian, Finnish, French, Greek, Polish, and Swedish, 85c.

sRMCCH 'TOWER.

AND HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE

Vol. XLIII Decembeb 15, 1922 No. 24

ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1922

PURSUANT to the provision made by the charter and the by-laws of the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, the annual meeting was convened at Carnegie Hall, North Side, Pittsburgh, at 10:00 o’clock Tuesday morning, October 31. After devotional services conducted by Brother C. H. Stewart, the meeting was called to order and reports were made by the President of the Society and the Treasurer for the year past; namely, from October 1,1921, to October 1, 1922. There being no particular business to be conducted at this meeting except the reports, after both reports had been given motion was duly made and seconded that the reports be received with many thanks and appreciation for the Lord’s blessing bestowed upon his people during the year past. The motion was unanimously carried. We set out the report as follows:

Following the custom of the Society long ago established by Brother Russell, we publish an annual report of the activities of the Society for the fiscal year ending October 31. This report was made at the annual meeting held at Pittsburgh, October 31, in harmony with the charter, the laws of the land and the notice given.

This report is not for the benefit of our enemies or opposers, but for the encouragement of those who are honestly endeavoring to further the cause of our Lord and Master. Not every detailed transaction of the So-cietv is published, because that is exactly what our enemies for years tried to force out of Brother Russell. Of course neither the law nor the charter requires the publication of a report, but Brother Russell always thought it wise and for the encouragement of the brethren to give a general review, and we arc glad to follow his lead. While the details of every transaction are not put into print, at the same time the books of the Association are open at all times for the inspection of any member of the Society, that he or she may see at any time that all matters and transactions of the Society in detail are entirely proper and in order. We publish the amount contributed for the work and the way in which that sum is generally spent. For every cent of it, however, even to a postage stamp, there is an account upon the books, and nothing is paid out except on proper voucher; but to set out these transactions in detail would require a large book. The way established by Brother Russell seems to be wise and to h?.ve had the Lord’s approval; and as we believe he is

the Lord’s wise and faithful servant, we are happy to follow his method.

Another year has passed; and with its close we are glad to say that the little band of the Lord’s followers yet this side the vail are strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. During the year there have been some trying experiences, but these are insignificant compared with the joy and peace of serving our Lord and King. As we pause now to view the scope of the work during the year, we find many reasons for rejoicing. We can with real satisfaction see that wc have been laboring in the Lord’s vineyard, and now forcibly come to mind the words of the Prophet: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.”—Psalm 33: 12.

These words were addressed to Israel after the flesh, and originally applied to that nation. But without doubt they apply in a broader sense to Israel after the spirit. At this time there is no earthly nation which acknowledges Jehovah as God and accepts his ways through his beloved Son, the Prince of Peace, for the settling of the difficulties that afflict mankind.

On the contrary, all the nations of earth are today acting according to man’s wisdom, the wisdom of this world, directed by the super-mind of Satan; and by international conference, diplomacy and intrigue they arc trying to reform Satan’s empire and to control the people. But he whose right it is to take over the affairs of the nations and peoples of earth has come. He has begun his reign. That reign wiU bring the desire of all nations, and in due time the peoples of earth will recognize Jehovah as God and Jesus as the Deliverer.

If a nation is wholly devoted to the Lord then that nation must be composed of a people for God’s purpose. The apostle Peter describes such a nation thus: “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for a purpose; that you may declare the perfections of him who called you from darkness into his wonderful light; who once were not a people, but now are God’s people; who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.”—1 Peter 2: 9,10, Dia-glott.

At once we recognize the nation thus described as the new creation of which Jesus is the Head. It is a holy nation, made so through the blood of Christ Jesus and the sanctifying influence of the holy spirit. This 887

is the new nation that is coming into power. Such at this time is the only nation whose God is Jehovah and whom Jehovah hath chosen for his own purposes. It will be observed that the above rendering of this text shows that God has selected this people for a purpose; and his purpose is the reconciliation to himself of the world.

While the nations of the old world are rapidly disintegrating and are desperately seeking some means to establish themselves, it is the privilege and duty of God’s chosen people, the holy nation, to point out to the peoples of earth that money is not the God, neither is might nor earthly wisdom; but that Jehovah is the only true God, and that Jesus Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords. It is the privilege of the Lord’s people, as well as their duty, to advertise to the new world the new King and his kingdom and to comfort men’s hearts by showing them that this kingdom is the remedy for the ills of humankind and that it will bring peace and lasting blessings to mankind.

To educate the people concerning the divine plan is the purpose for which the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society was created and organized. For thirty-eight years it has been in existence as an incorporated body, but existed prior to that time as an association of Christians under the leadership of the Lord’s wise and faithful servant. Those who love the Lord Jesus’ appearing, and who love him and the heavenly Father supremely, who recognize the presence of the Lord and who arc trusting in the merit of his sacrifice, are fully consecrated to do God’s will and are heartily engaged in doing it, are properly considered members of this Society. Certain qualifications have been fixed as to those who shall vote; but this does not preclude others from being classed as members of the Society who are in full heart harmony with the Lord’s way and who are working together in harmony with their brethren to carry out the purposes for which this Society was created and organized.

We think that we can say with propriety and with proper modesty, that the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society is the only united body of Christians on earth who joyfully acknowledge Jehovah as God and Jesus as King and who, believing in the presence of the King and his kingdom, are unitedly making proclamation of these great truths to mankind. What a blessed privilege it is. then, that as followers in the Master’s footsteps wc are permitted now to be members of his army this side the vail and to be used of him in carrying out his purposes! As his followers there are two principal things for us to do at this time: namely, (1) to be faithful and true witnesses to the Lord; and (2) to see to it that we are being transformed into the likeness of our Lord and Master by feeding upon his Word and permitting his spirit to control us, looking forward to that happy time when our hopes will be consummated and we shall be forever with the Lord. You are particularly interested in the report based upon these two general points.

St. Paul points out that we are ambassadors for Christ, as though we speak in Christ’s stead; and that God is speaking by Christ through us, that we might bring to the world his message of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:20) An ambassador is one who represents his potentate. As ambassadors we represent the Lord amongst the people of the earthly nations; and we can with propriety apply the words of the Psalmist to ourselves: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.”

We take great pleasure in acknowledging before men that we recognize Jehovah as the only true God and Jesus as his long-promised King. Never was a greater honor conferred upon any creature than to be the ambassador of such a King. And since we are commanded to do with our might what our hands find to do, we must do this in order to be faithful and true witnesses of this great kingdom.

To this end the work of the Society at headquarters is organized, insofar as we are able, on a basis of efficiency. It is divided into forces, and each one is expected to do his part in the place where put; and we believe that all are doing it to the best of their ability, by the Lord’s grace.

PRINTED WITNESS

Oue of the most effective ways of giving the witness to the Lord’s kingdom is by inducing others to read our literature in connection with their Bibles, thus proving that the things taught are true. Experience has shown that where a person buys a book he is much more likely to read it than if receiving it as a free gift. Of course our real purpose is to get the message into his hands. Where one has not the money to buy, however, and desires to read, the rule of the Society is and always has been to give them free reading matter; and to this end much literature has been given away during the year.

Those having the responsibility of managing the work at the headquarters reasoned that, as the time of trouble increases, strikes and labor difficulties would render more uncertain the procuring of manufactured books when printed and bound by worldly concerns; that the enemy, would certainly take advantage of every opportunity to hinder and if possible to stop the Society’s work; but that if some arrangement might be made whereby the books could be printed and bound by consecrated hands, we would thus be independent of much of the labor trouble and difficulty and more likely to get the witness to the people; that in addition to this, in time we could produce the books at a saving of cost and soon be able to put them into the hands of the people at a cheaper price.

Several difficulties, however, confronted us; among others, Could the machinery and other equipment be bought on time? The Society has no legal power to borrow money for procuring machinery or for any other purpose. What, then, could be done? The result was that an arrangement was made by which machinery for printing and binding the books was bought in the name of private parties, brethren in the truth, on time payments, so that the debt could be paid off in monthly installments. Hence instead of a profit being paid to worldly institutions for making books, this amount could be applied monthly to reducing the debt; and when the debt is cancelled, the plant will belong to and be used exclusively for the benefit of the Society, and then we shall be able to reduce the selling price of all the books we publish.

By the Lord’s grace such an arrangement was made and is being carried out. A manufacturing plant was equipped with the latest presses, typesetting machines, electroplating outfit, cutting, folding and binding machinery. The task seemed almost impossible; but our brethren, trusting in the Lord, put forth their efforts; and the Lord has added his blessing.

The establishment of this printing and binding plant has in no -wise interfered with the use of the voluntary contributions to the tract fund to carry on the work; but in course of time it will be a benefit to this and, we hope, will enable us to enlarge the work and especially to help peoples who cannot help themselves. Already advantage has resulted; and we now see the way clear to reduce the selling price of The Harp of God, beginning with December 10, to 35c. As soon as possible the price on all of our other publications will be reduced. We feel very grateful to the Lord for making this arrangement, and feel certain that it has been done with his approval and that it will result in giving a wider witness to the truth.

Many difficulties having been overcome by the Lord’s grace, the plant was started in March of this year. It is manned in every department by consecrated brethren. Tins affords more brethren opportunities of service where they otherwise might not have it. Not one cent of profit resulting from this plant has been used or will be used for any private individual, but every part of it for the purpose of spreading the message of the Lord's kingdom.

Some idea can be gathered as to what has been done by this plant since its starting by observing the following figures. It has published and bound the following, to wit:

Handbills ..........—........ 806,200

Books ................. G23.620

Copies of The Watch Tower ............................ 1,204.450

Copies of The Golden Age .................................. 2,040,320

Window cards, catalogs, etc............................... 41,250

Free tracts ................ 10,085,000

14,806,840

OTHER LANGUAGES

This printing, of course, includes printing done in languages other than English: namely, Arabic, Armenian, Armeno-Turkish, Croatian, Czechoslovakian, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, Russian, Ukrainian and Swedish.

In addition to the English headquarters at Brooklyn, during the year there has been removed from Detroit the Polish headquarters and united with the office at Brooklyn. We have thus been enabled to reduce the operating cost of the Polish wor to some extent, besides having all the work under one management. For the various domestic foreign branches and their organization, which is operated from the main office at Brooklyn, we refer our readers to the report of 1921, where the details are set forth.

FIELD ORGANIZATION

The efficiency with which the witness must be given of necessity depends largely upon the organized efforts made in the field. We expect, of course, the number engaging in this work to be small; for it is only a little flock who love the Lord supremely, and by this small band he is giving the witness.

During the year, 980 classes in the United States have reported as fully organized and engaged in the work, and 8,270 persons reported as working. Their work consists in calling upon the people, canvassing them for the books, and inviting them to the meetings, thus giving a personal face-to-face witness and inducing others to read the message.

There have also been engaged during that time 531 sharpshooters, who devote such time as they can to this work. Including these in the list of workers of class organizations the total number amounts to 8,801 workers. The weekly average of those engaged in this activity has been 2,250 workers. They have arranged for many meetings and have organized many Bible study classes; and thus they have done a work that is impossible for any one this side the vail to describe in detail. Its full effect will be known in due time when we see our Lord face to face. While we realize that he docs not need any one to work for him, it is a blessed privilege to know we have a part in the work-.

COLPORTEUR DEPARTMENT

During the year there have been 269 persons actively engaged in the colporteur service, and 193 persons in the auxiliary colporteur service. The colporteurs really bear the brunt of the battle in the field. Their noble example is an inspiration to every one who is striving to give a witness to the truth. We verily believe that the colporteurs accomplish really more good than any other one branch of the service; for they are constantly coming in contact, face to face, with the people; and their earnest, zealous method of telling others about the Lord’s kingdom leaves an impression that is lasting. We would that more could actively engage in the colporteur service exclusively; but not every one is able to make expenses in that work, and others are hindered by some influences not subject to their control.

During the past year this noble band of workers has placed in the hands of the people a large number of books and other literature. There have been sent out from this office for this purpose the following:

Studies in the Scriptures, Scenarios, etc...........125,060

“Millions” books ..........................................................ITS,459

“Can the Living Talk with the Dead?” books .... GG.01G “Hell,” “Tabernacle Shadows,” & other booklets 30,268

The Harp op God.......................................................—290.363

Watch Tower lieprints ............................................ 10.378

Zgs ...................................... 7,947

Total.

..64S.491

Sales by classes from their stock on hand far exceeded this number.

jSTaiiy workers are reporting splendid success in organizing Berean Bible studies, using Thu Harp of God as a textbook. It is understood that The Harp of God does not in any wise supplant the Studies in the Scriptures, but is merely an epitome, stated in simple language, for the benefit of beginners; and it is hoped that classes started in this study may soon take up the entire set of Studies in the Scriptures.

HONOR ROLL

While we do not wish to make comparison of the efforts put forth by the workers in various parts of the field, yet it seems that some of the classes are entitled to special mention because of their zealous efforts put forth in giving the witness. Brother Russell always held that a class which devoted itself largely to Berean studies, canvassing for the books and organizing new classes, made greater progress and did more really effective work than where there is so much preaching done. The reports in the office show that the classes whose ciders go out every Sunday to preach to some other class, and who give less attention to Berean studies aud to placing of the books in the hands of the people, have not made great progress.

Amongst those who should be favorably mentioned are the following classes:

Watertown, N. Y. Tulsa, Okla.

Charlestown, W. Va.

Norfolk, Va.

Easton, Pa.

Philadelphia, Pa.

Portland, Ore.

South Norwalk, Conn.

Buffalo, N. Y. Tacoma, Wash. Pittsburgh, Pa. Greensboro, N. C. Lancaster, Pa.

Boise, Ida.

Stevens Point, Wis.

Springfield, Mo.

E. St. Louis, Hl.

San Jose, Calif.

Seattle, Wash.

Chancellor, S. D.

St. Louis, Mo.

Baltimore, Md.

Newport News, Va. Cincinnati, O. (colored) Naslnille, Tenn.

Petersburg, Va.

New York, N. Y. (colored)

Topeka, Kans.

Oakland, Calif. Washington, D. C. Spokane, Wash.

Columbus, O.

Kansas City, Mo.

Some of these classes have given a wide witness in the rural districts in and about the cities mentioned, organized meetings in schoolhouses and vacated churches; and thus they have accomplished a tremendous amount in advertising the King and his kingdom.

Several of the classes had a large stock of the Combinations on hand at the beginning of the year. Some of these classes have disposed of all of their stock, while others have much of it on hand; and the ones who have disposed of their stock have been the ones who are more active in getting everybody in the class who possibly can do so to engage in the work.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE

The distribution of free tracts does not afford the opportunity of so much personal witness as by canvassing for the books. Besides, as above observed, one is more likely to read a book when purchased. We do not wish to be understood, however, to say that the volunteer work is not profitable; for the Lord has blessed it in times past and he still blesses it. As heretofore stated, all the plates for the free literature having been destroyed during the trouble of 1918, such free tracts have not been used to any extent since. The Golden Age was intended largely to take the place of such, and during the year 687,320 copies were given away free.

The resolution passed at the Cedar Point Convention later was embodied in a tract for wide distribution. Ten million of these tracts were printed for the United States, with another million for Australia and Canada; and October 31, the anniversary of Brother Russell’s change, was set for a general distribution of these tracts in the United States and Canada. In addition thereto the same tract is published in the following foreign languages for distribution in the United States:

Arabic ............ 6,000

Armenian ........................................................... 20,000

Armcno-Turkisli ................. 10,000

Bohemian .......... 40.000

German .............................. 250,000

Greek ....................................... 200,000

Hungarian ................................................................ 30.000

Italian _______ 100.000

Lithuanian ................................................................. 20,000

Polish ...................... ...100,000

Russian ............ 10,000

786,000

In addition to the above, more than $20,000 have been sent to foreign countries to be used almost exclusively in printing this tract in different languages for free distribution. The hope is that within the next few weeks every part of the earth where the truth is known will be reached with this free tract. Up to the time of this report something above 35,000,000 copies are either printed or in course of printing for free distribution.

BULLETIN

There arc issued monthly from this office 10,000 copies of the “Bulletin” to the classes in the United States alone. These arc sent to the classes for distribution amongst the workers, so that each worker may have a personal communication from the office for his encouragement and direction in the work, as well as the general “Bulletin” that goes to the Director. The classes through their chosen servants make regular reports to this office, so that there is a well-organized, systematic effort in carrying on the activities in the field.

THE GOLDEN AGE

The work done by The Golden Age magazine during the past year has been very gratifying. Readers of this magazine commend it from every part of the field. It is necessary, of course, to carry some worldly news and secular matters in order to get this publication into the homes of those who are not in the truth. We feel sure that it has a place in the Lord’s work and that he is blessing it. During the past year the copies of The Golden Age sent out to subscribers and for samples have been 2,046,320, which, if sent forth in tract form, would be equivalent to 16,370,560 tracts. It will thus be seen that with The Golden Age going into the hands of the people, together with the 35,000,000 tracts issued, the volunteer work for the year has exceeded that of any year in the past.

CORRESPONDENCE

The correspondence during the year has been exceedingly heavy. Letters and cards received at this office, 161,233. Letters and cards dispatched from this office, 130,443.

THE WATCH TOWER

The total number of languages in which The Watch Tower is now published is sixteen. It is published in eight languages at the Brooklyn office. The typesetting machines with which the office is equipped set all the type for these Towers. These machines are so equipped that we can set type to the number of twenty-seven languages. Plates are made, and these Towers are printed, in the office.

It is gratifying to note that the friends from all parts of the field report blessings received from The Watch Tower. It is the purpose of the Editorial Committee and the publishers to keep The Watch Tower free from controversy and to have it devoted entirely to instruction in spiritual matters and to the other matters in which the church is specially interested.

PILGRIM SERVICE

During the year past the Society has sent out brethren who have engaged in the Pilgrim work to the number of 102. These Pilgrim brethren, in addition to visiting the classes and holding parlor meetings, have addressed public meetings regularly throughout the United States and Canada. The number of public meetings held by the brethren in the United States during the year is, to wit, 3,648; the total attendance at these public meetings, 645,804, the number of visits made by the brethren, 6,367; the number of class meetings held, 7,880; the total attendance at the class meetings, 373,207. The total number of miles traveled by those engaged in the service is, to wit, 488,738

In addition to this work brethren from the United States have visited foreign countries in giving the witness for the truth. Brothers Rutherford, Goux and Martin were in Europe something over two months, a full report of which visit has heretofore appeared in The Watch Tower. Brother Hemery of the British office made a brief tour of the United States, visiting a number of classes. Brother M. A. Howlett is now in Aus-iralia, and will work out both Australia and New Zealand. Brother George Young has made an extended trip through the British West Indies, British and Dutch Guiana, and other paits of South America; and the reports from his meetings show that the Lord has blessed his work abundantly. During the latter part of the year Brothers Woodworth and Pickering were in Great Britain, attending conventions there and visiting the classes. Besides this, a number of our Pilgrim brethren have visited Canada during the year, a report of which visits will appear in the Canadian report.

THE MESSAGE BY WIRELESS

In addition to addressing audiences directly, a number of our brethren have used the wireless. It is safe to estimate that at least 300,000 people have received the message by wireless during the year; and we anticipate a much wider witness by this means next year.

WORLD-WIDE WITNESS

During the year the classes throughout the United States and Canada on a fixed day held public meetings, all using the subject “Millions Now Living Will Never Die.” It was thought well to have a general witness throughout the world on this same subject. Branch offices in the various countries of the earth were asked to advertise every available public speaker to speak on this subject. The result was that a world-wide witness was given by the public speakers of the brethren in the truth on February 26 and June 25. On October 29 another world-wide witness was given; while December 10 is set for another.

The attendance at public meetings in this world-wide witness is not shown in the above report of the Pilgrims, because many brethren throughout the world held meetings that are not reported through the Pilgrim Department, some classes arranging for as many as sixty meetings on one day in and about the city where the class meets regularly. The reports from these world-wide witnesses have indeed been gratifying. They have stimulated the brethren everywhere to greater earnestness and zeal, and have advertised the truth probably more than any other one thing. When we call to mind that the same message is being spoken in more than thirty languages in different parts of the earth at the same time, we may be sure that it is having some effect upon Satan’s empire. At least it is giving a witness of the Lord and of his kingdom.

These world-wide meetings give opportunity for every one who is able to deliver an address to do so. They also afford occasion for the younger brethren who are deacons and for the sisters to aid in advertising the meetings and putting the literature into the hands of the people at the conclusion of the meetings. They have stimulated the friends wherever these have participated. There has been a general and liberal response in every part of the earth, and by the Lord’s grace we hope to keep up these world-wide witnesses until the Lord indicates otherwise.

We must make and maintain the reputation which the Lord desires his people to have: namely, a people separate from the world who are marked as witnesses for the Lord and his kingdom. In this connection we should remember the words of St. Paul: ‘‘'Whether 1 come and see you or, being absent, only hear of you, I may know that you are standing fast in one spirit and with one mind, fighting shoulder to shoulder for the faith of the good news. Never for a moment quail before your antagonists.”—Philippians 1: 27, 28, 14'’ey-tnouth.

There is a real joy in knowing that our brethren are working shoulder to shoulder throughout the whole world in proclaiming the message of the kingdom; and while our enemies will slander those who are engaging in the work, vilely misrepresenting them, attempting to deceive others, seeking to destroy and always opposing the development of the Lord’s work, there is no occasion for the child of God to fear; but every one should take courage and stand shoulder to shoulder and press on, knowing that our Lord is leading on to victory. This witness is bound to have this effect;

CONVENTIONS

During the fiscal year there have been held in the United States conventions to the number of twenty-five. The Cedar Point Convention, a full report of which is given in the November 1 issue of The Watch Tower, was beyond question the greatest convention of consecrated people ever held on earth. While conventions entail considerable sacrifice and expense, yet we are sure that they are a great blessing to those who participate. The convention at Cedar Point served to give a wide witness to the country, not only in Ohio, where it was held, but in various parts of the United States and Canada.

The people are beginning to recognize that the Bible Students are the only people on earth who are bringing God’s message of salvation and peace to them, pointing to the only way—because it is the divine way—that will bring the desire of the nations. The public press gave a wide witness to the Cedar Point Convention, which we believe will result in much good; even those who criticized us did some good; for a criticism is an advertisement of the kingdom, sometimes even better than a commendatory statement. The number of conventions here given does not include local conventions arranged by the various classes for fifth Sundays and other times.

ORGANIZED ACTION

Thus it will be seen that with the organization at the Brooklyn headquarters and the further organization of the pilgrim, colporteur and class forces in the field, with a unity of heart in the Lord’s people, their concerted action is accomplishing a splendid work, giving each one engaging in it an opportunity of proving that he is a faithful and true witness for the King and his Kingdom.

We feel sure that the Lord is pleased to have his people thus organized that they may work in an orderly manner; and each one following the instructions given by the apostle Paul is specially blessed: “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy [public proclamation], let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith,” or ministry, teaching, exhortation, etc.—let each one serve in the place where the Lord has put him and do it with a joyful heart. If we act in harmony with the Lord, the result is bound to be as he would have it. Truly, then, God’s people arc a happy people. Engaged under the Captain of our salvation, we are certain of victory as long as we remain on the Lord’s side.

FOREIGN WORK

What has been heretofore stated in this report applies to the United States. It would require entirely too much space to give a detailed report of all the foreign field. For the various foreign offices, their location and organization we refer our readers to the report published in The Watch Tower of December 15, 1921. In addition to the branches and offices referred to there, during the past year the work has been extended more particular!}’ in Austria, Czechoslovakia, and some South American countries.

From every part of the field in Europe the reports show an increased interest in the truth, with but one possible exception : namely, Scandinavia. In those countries there has not been such a greatly increased interest; and we think that is is due largely to the fact that they have not yet experienced their great trouble, such as has come upon some other nations of Europe. However that may be, the work is in a healthy condition in the Scandinavian countries. During the year the message has also been translated and published in Esperanto, which is being used in Europe.

We should remember, however, that our brethren in foreign countries are not equipped financially to do the work without help; and much of the Society’s funds contributed during the year has gone to aid the work in European countries, as will be seen by the report. In a later issue we hope to give a summary of the report from these various countries.

As heretofore reported in The Watch Tower the President of the Society, during the visit to Europe this year, arranged for the publication of more than a million volumes of the books in various languages. This work is now about completed. Because of financial and economic conditions in Europe, however, it must be paid for chiefly by the American office, and the books sold often at less than cost, because the people of Europe ha\e not sufficient money to pay more. But we are sure that the Lord is pleased to have us spend at least a portion of our receipts to help our brethren in foreign countries and to give the witness there. The world is the field. The Lord willing, during the ensuing year we hope to extend the witness in foreign countries more widely than in the past.

FINANCIAL

None of the Lord’s dear saints are rich in this world’s goods. Notwithstanding efforts put forth by some brethren to make large sums of money for the Lord’s work, none of these have ever succeeded. It seems certain that the Lord intends his work to be done by the sacrifice of his people. Hence it is that the “Good Hopes” fund is made up chiefly of small contributions. But many of these small donations mount up to a large su .i. It is gratifying to see that during the year the Lord has provided through the sacrifice of his saints a goodly sum to be used in spreading the gospel of the kingdom; and this used in the most economical manner that we know how to use it, wre believe has given a wide witness. Hereto is appended a summary of the Treasurer’s report showing the financial condition of the treasury of the Society :

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

IlECEII’TS :

To balance from last year..............................$ 9.336.04

To “Good Hopes” donations, ets..................... 147,139-98

$156,476.02

Expenditures :

By Pilgrim work................................................$ 40,447.14

By public witness, free literature, etc......... 20.855.94

By conventions .................................................. 8,672.72

By foreign work (Pilgrims, public witness, etc.) ................................................................... 61,179.39

By incidentals, annual meeting...................... 67.40

Balance, October 1, 1922............................ 19,253.43* $156,476.02

♦At the closing of our books on October 1, the end of the fiscal year, there were bills already contracted which would more than wipe out the above balance; and there was immediately paid the foreign branches for free tracts and publicity the sum of $24,204.90, which would in fact leave at the beginning of the year a small deficit. But the contributions are meeting ibis, and we will continue to enlarge the scope of the work in proportion as the Lord grants the way by providing the means-

We gratefully acknowledge the Lord’s marked kindness toward his people in the blessing of his work from the financial showing during the year.

SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

It is gratifying to note the healthy spiritual development of the church in every part of the field. It is true that there is some deflection here and there; but this is to be expected. We arc in the evil day, the time in which the saints are being tested. Some who have walked with us complain that the Society is giving too much attention to acth ity in the field in proclaiming the message to others. Others criticize for different reasons. These criticisms are all to be expected, of course. But we are quite sure that those who are active in the field are the ones who have been making spiritual progress. The Lord Jesus said: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.” (John 5:17) Again he said: “I am among you as he that serveth.” (Luke 22:27) The apostle Paul urges us to be “not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” (Romans 12: 11) Moreover, we are commanded by the Apostle to be diligent. Diligence does not mean inactivity.

Again, the Scriptures tell us: “The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.” (Psalm 69 : 9) The words of this last text apply first to the Lord Jehovah himself, who has at all times been reproached by the adversary. When Jesus came, the reproaches fell upon him; and since he finished his earthly course, similar reproaches have fallen upon the body members. What, then, was the real cause of these reproaches? The Psalmist shows it was the zeal peculiar to the Lord’s house. Zeal means a burning, glowing love for the Lord and his cause. The Lord Jesus was zealous ir. being a true and faithful witness for the heavenly Father; and we are commanded to be his true and faithful witnesses. By so doing we suffer the reproach from the adversary and from those whom he can stir up to oppose us—to shoot at us fiery darts, even bitter words.

Jesus clearly shows that these things will have to be endured by those who are faithfully witnessing for him at the end of the world. He states that many will be offended, leading to betrayal and hatred; and that because injustice would abound the love of many would wax cold; and of course where love waxes cold there will be no effort to spread the glad tidings. Then Jesus adds: “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” This endurance is spoken of in connection with the proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom. Where love is the only motive that impels one to be a witness for the Lord, and where he is willing to endure privations, persecutions, false accusations, criticisms, all because of his love to witness for the Lord, then he may be sure that such experience is developing in him the likeness of our Lord and Master, teaching such to be long-suffering and yet kind.

It is easily observed that those brethren in different parts of the held who are most active in spreading the gospel are the ones who are most tolerant in their minds toward others, kindly disposed, easy of entreatment, and who manifest a greater amount of good works. The mind must be occupied by something, cither good or evil; and if it is not occupied concerning the Lord’s kingdom, our great enemy Satan will see to it that it is occupied with something concerning his empire. So it is to be expected that those who are most actively engaged in serving the Lord, prompted only by the motive of love, will be the ones who will show the greatest spiritual development. These, holding on faithfully and loyally to the end, will be given a crown of life.

Here and there in different parts of the field there have been some who have become weary in well-doing, displeased with the food that the Lord has provided for his people, and have turned aside to feed upon other things; and these are quickly given over to criticism and har sh sayings against their brethren who are trying faithfully to represent the Lord’s cause. We are happy to report, however, that this number is negligible. We should be pleased, of course, to witness their recovery and their engaging again heartily in the spreading of the gospel of the kingdom; but we cannot stop to argue the matter with them. The Lord having committed it into the hands of the people of his nation to give the witness, those who are pleasing to him must press on, doing daily with their might what their hands find to do. The people whom the Lord has chosen for his inheritance are those who will prove faithful to him, even unto death. And truly, as the Psalmist said: “The Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.”—Psalm 149 : 4.

In conclusion, dear brethren, as we take a retrospective view of the things of the year just passed, we have much cause for gratitude in our hearts and joy that the Lord has been pleased to hold us fast during the year; and upon examining our hearts we rejoice to find that our singleness of purpose and desire is to serve him faithfully, to be transformed into his likeness, and in due time to see him face to face. Let us gird up the loins of our minds, be sober and hope to the end, knowing that if we continue in confidence and rejoicing in this hope firm to the end, we shall reap the eternal reward and soon be forever with our Lord.

“ADVERTISE THE KING AND KINGDOM”

“Say among the nations that the Lord reigneth; the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.”—Psalm 06:10.

THIS text is a positive commandment from the Lord, to be executed in due time. Jesus said: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” To this St. John adds: “This proves our love of God, that we keep his commandments; and his commandments arc not grievous.”

The due time for obeying the commandment here first above mentioned is at the beginning of the reign of our Lord. It is directed to those who are members of the new creation this side the vail. The Scriptural evidence in the light of recent events shows that the Lord began his reign in 1914. There the nations became angry. The World War, famine, pestilence, and revolution followed. The due time for the Lord’s people to specifically obey this commandment is when they see and appreciate the time in which we are living. Speaking to his faithful followers, he in substance says: 'Go tell the nations of earth this message. Tell them that the Lord reigns; that the first work of his reign is the dashing to pieces of Satan’s empire; that this work is in progress; but comfort their hearts with the message that the King of kings and Lord of lords comes to judge the people righteously and to give them all the truth.’

The peoples of earth are in great distress, and their rulers in much perplexity. They all see dreadful things coming; but they do not know what is the remedy, if any, for such distress. The rulers have assembled in world conference after conference and have put forth their best efforts to establish peace and to save the old order from complete collapse. In the light of the Lord’s Word we know they cannot succeed in this; for the time has come for the old order to vanish and to be succeeded by the new. As the old order comes nearer and nearer to final collapse, the distress of the people and the perplexity of the rulers increase. The Lord, however, has a complete and absolute remedy by which the desire of all nations and peoples of earth can be realized. That remedy is his kingdom of righteousness; and his reign will bring peace on earth and good will to men, happiness and contentment. The people ought to know about this. It is due time for them to know.

The Lord desires the world to have this message of reconciliation. He has committed to his faithful followers the privilege of delivering such message. Are you one of those? If so, joyfully obey the command of the Lord and tell the people that his reign begun will shortly so establish the new world that it cannot be moved; that he will bring a stable and lasting government which will not only be free from revolution, anarchy and profiteers, deceivers and defrauders, but will bring health and happiness, peace and joy; and that to those who obey the righteous reign will be granted, life everlasting in a state of happiness and perfection. His kingdom is not for a few brief years, but is an everlasting kingdom. Tell them, as he directs in this command, that he will judge the people impartially and with righteousness; that he will lead them into the full and complete truth; that he will lead the obedient ones over the highway of holiness and will fill every heart that loves and obeys him with boundless happiness.

A GREAT PRIVILEGE

This is the message of the hour. It is a message of hope and good cheer. Every one who truly loves the Lord and appreciates the time in which we are now living will be anxious to tell it to others as opportunity affords. Those who do thus tell it with a joyful heart will be keeping the Lord’s commandments.

It will be noticed from the text and the context that this message will bring joy to those who hear; and this, like other similar texts in the Bible, shows that there is great rejoicing among those who know and appreciate the Lord’s reign. Remember, then, if you arc a consecrated child of God you are a publicity agent for the King and his kingdom. Advertise it in every way you can.

You have received a quantity of free tracts. Each one of these tracts gives a brief outline of the precious message from the Lord. It tells of the invisible presence of the King of kings and of his reign begun. Whether you are able to make a speech or not is not so important. Anyone can carry the tracts to another. Get your territory, call at each home, hand in one copy of the tract to the person responding, and speak a good word—something like this: You will be pleased to read this because it contains a message of hope of a better time coming. Pass quickly on to the next house. Then a few days later, under the direction of the class organization, go over your territory with the books and canvass the same people to whom you have delivered the tracts. They will recognize you. Their interest will have been aroused by reading the resolution contained in the tract, as well as the other message; and then you can tell them that the books you have give a full explanation, with numerous Scripture citations, to prove that these things are true.

Get the message into the hands of the people. Encourage them to read; and as interest is manifested, organize Bible study classes and help them to understand.

In doing these things, remember that you arc obeying the commandment of the Lord in bringing these good tidings of peace and salvation to the people; that you arc binding up the broken-hearted and comforting those that mourn. “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him”—the last members of the body who deliver this message.

A LESSON IN TRUST AND PREPAREDNESS

---December 24---Luke 12---

BEGINNING OF CONCERTED OPPOSITION TO OUR LORD’S MINISTRY—A TEST OF DISCIPLESHIP—DANGER OF SINNING AGAINST TH1 WITNESS OF THE CHURCH--PARABLES ILLUSTRATING CONDITIONS AT OUR LORD’S RETURN—APPLICATION TO OUB DAY.

“The life is more than the food, and the body than the raiment."—Luke 12: 23.

THE feast in the Pharisee’s house broke up In a measure of disorder. The Pharisees and the lawyers were now angry, and tried to catch Jesus in his words, that they might accuse him. It was apparent that concerted opposition to him and his work was beginning; but Jesus became even more pointed in his words about them and their teaching. The third phase of his ministry—that of opposition— bad come; find from this time he began to warn his disciples : “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” He also warned the people to beware of them.

Aided by the holy spirit, the disciples were to proclaim his teaching boldly. This would bring them into sore trouble; but he bade them fear not: “Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.” (Luke 12: 4) Fear God, who has called you into his service. Lovingly he assured them of God’s care, saying that not a sparrow falls to the ground apart from the will of God; and that God is so watchful and mindful of his own that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Luke 12: 7) ■—symbolisms telling of a loving, particular care.

Without doubt our Lord was now speaking through the apostles to the whole church. These words are intended for our guidance and comfort as much as for those who first heard them. Faithful discipleship would bring his followers into conflict with the powers of the world; It would be no easy matter to acknowledge association with him, to confess him before men. The history of the church shows that this has always been one of the tests of discipleship. Christianity, professedly the teaching of Jesus, has been accepted by the “civilized world”; but the true followers of Jesus have always been considered eccentric. The test has never been lifted.

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