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    The Watchtower, February 1, 1923

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    The Watchtower—1923

    I

    “I will stand upon my watch and will set upon the Tower, and a ill natch to see uh at

    No.

    .35

    .39

    and the waves uiw

    .38

    .39

    .39

    my foot He tail to th-

    ....40

    ....42

    ....43

    .. .42

    .. 45 ...45 ...4G

    ...47

    discontented! roaring, men's heart' f.n'mg them for fear and for 'ockyig to th*

    s of the heavens (ecciesiasticism) shall be shaken. . . . When ye see these things begin to couw t> pass, lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.—Matt. 24:33; Mark 13:29; LrV 21:35’31,

    Upon Utt e.t h i.,'t ii-, g i....bias umi peiple.xity, the sea things c^mng upon ih* tai th (society); tor the powe then know that tu L• i.g..oui ot God is at baud. Look up.

    CJjeJferaiitsg alls©!”-laaialj

    \ OL. XLIV

    Semi-Monthly

    Anno Mundi 6051 — February 1, 1923

    CONTENTS

    I

    Are You Using His Pound?.....

    An Illustration ...................

    Brethren. Arouse Yourselves!. Heart Devotion .......................

    Present Rewards .....................

    Slaying 11 is Enemies...............

    Entering the Kingdom.............

    , ROCKOFACES’'^ .Other fou negation-can -no man lay

    A RANSOM FOR ALL<C

    Here Am I, Send Mi:" (poem)........

    The Spirit of Prayer........................

    The Prayer with Answer Delayed..

    Jesus and Zaccheus ........................

    Gospels Given under Holy Spirit....

    Sudden Conversions ........................

    Interesting Letters _______~_____________

    ihtii, ci>i>0'(

    "—llabal I ul: 2

    ©WT.B.5TS

    THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION

    THIS journal is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now befnf presented in all parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, chartered A. D. 1884, “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 th* coming of its traveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims”, and refreshed with reports of its conventions.

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

    This journal stands firmly for the defense of the only true foundation of the Christian’s hope now being so generally repudiated —-redemption through the precious blood of “the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom [a corresponding price, a substitute] for all”. (1 Peter 1:19; 1 Timothy 2 : 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. . .ha* 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 holy Scriptures. It is thus free to declare boldly whatsoever the Lord hath spoken—according to the divine wisdom granted unto us to understand his utterances. Its attitude is not dogmatic, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge oufl 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 rnd 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 28 :14 ; Galatians 3: 29.

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

    That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man,” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which 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 hi* glory as his joint-heir.—1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Romans 8:17; 2 1’cter 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 243 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 hands of their Redeemer and his glorified churchy wbeu all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed,—Acts 3:19-23 ; Isaiah 35.

    --- ■'------------- TTHBMS= ' ,----- ' -==30

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    (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, VV. E. Van Amburgh, J. Hemery, G. H. Fisher.________________

    Terms to the Lord’a Poor: All Bible students who. by reason of old age or other in-Cr~ky or adversity, are unable to pay for this journal, will be supplied free if they send s postal card each May stating their case and requesting such provision. We are not only willing, but th.. .11 such be on our list continually and in touch with th.

    Berean studies. ___

    Notice to Subserinem* W. do not. Marnie, ooadaeardof aefcnowlmlainoot foroeonowolow " “ tor .MW Md .nW oUrM-wal M. Indict^

    within a month by change in expiration date, as shown ea wrapper label.

    Entered <u SmmuZ Close Matter at Brooklyn, N. Y.. Poetefflee wider tko det of Marek 3rd, 19?9q

    MEMORIAL DATE—1923

    The date for celebrating the Memorial in 1923 Is Friday, March 30. The time is calculated from the new moon nearest to the Spring equinox. The Spring equinox this year is March 21. There is a new moon March 17, which marks the beginning of the month Nisan. The fourteenth of Nisan then would be March 31. The day begins at six o’clock on the evening previous; therefore Friday evening, March 30, after six o’clock, is the proper time for celebrating the Memorial.

    BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION

    A three-day convention of the International Bible Students Association will be held at Birmingham, Alabama, February 9-11. A number of the Pilgrim brethren will be present and address the convention, as will also the President of the Society. For further information write to Mr. T. W. Miller, 1515 19th Street, Birmingham, Alabama.

    JACKSONVILLE CONVENTION

    The International Bible Students Association will hold a general convention at Jacksonville, Florida, February 16-18. This convention will furnish an opportunity for the friends of Florida, Georgia, and other adjoining states, to have a season of personal fellowship. It is expected that this will be well attended, as it is the only convention held In the Southeastern section during the winter. Several Pilgrim brethren will be present, and also Brother Rutherford. For local accommodations and other Information address Mr. E. L. Riddick, 2030 Liberty Street, Jacksonville, Florida.

    HOUSTON CONVENTION

    A general convention of the International Bible Students Association will be held at Houston, Texas, February 23-25, affording three days of fellowship of the brethren In Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and other adjoining states. Brother Rutherford expects to serve at this convention, and a number of the Pilgrim brethren will also participate. For further information address Mr. Joseph Isaac, Jr., 905 Thompson Street, Houston, Texas.

    CONVENTIONS TO BE ADDRESSED BY BROTHER RUTHERFORD

    Brooklyn, N. Y., February 4......................................(No convention)

    Birmingham, Ala., February 11..............T. W. Miller, 1515 19th St.

    Jacksonville, Fla., February 18......E. L. Riddick, 2030 Liberty St.

    Houston, Xmas, February 25....Joseph Isaac, Jr., 905 Thompson St.

    AND HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE

    Vol. XLIV

    Febbuaby 1, 1923

    No. 3

    ARE YOU USING HIS POUND ?

    "And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.”

    —Luke

    THE Lord has come unto his temple. The day of reckoning is here. Some have grown weary in well-doing. Some others are inclined to do so. It is a severe testing time.

    Just at this time we should expect the Lord to turn more light upon his Word; for he promised that the pathway of the just shall shine with increased brilliancy as we come near to the end of the way. Indeed, to those who really love the Lord and his presence the way grows brighter and the days happier. Blessed will be that day when we have reached the full consummation of our hopes.

    Some are inclined to become doubtful about 1925; hence they are growing lukewarm. But, beloved of the Lord, what difference does it make whether the things expected to transpire in 1925 do transpire or not? God will not change his plans. He made his plans long ago. He has made no mistakes. He will carry them out, and bring to pass exactly what he has prearranged. Have we not long ago agreed to do his will ? Then we should say to him now, joyfully: ‘I will acquiesce in whatsoever is thy will, and bide thine own good time to bring it to pass?

    But suppose 1925 finds the bride class all beyond the vail. If you have held fast to the faith in the spirit and have not relaxed your zeal for the King and the kingdom, then your joys will be full and complete. It is safer not to take any chances now by becoming weary in well-doing. Love for the Lord, and a full and devoted interest in his kingdom, must be the moving cause for all of our activities, in order that the Lord may be pleased to say: ‘Enter thou into my joys?

    AN ILLUSTRATION

    Before you were consecrated to the Lord, when you were a part of this old world organization that is now dying, were you ev.er deeply interested in some great political compaign? The candidates were all selected; the campaign was on. One of the leading candidates came to you and said: ‘You can prove an important factor in this community. I have need of some one here to whom I can commit my interests in this campaign. I have to be in another part of the field. I want

    19:13.

    some one here to look after my interests faithfully. I expect to be elected to office; and when I am elected, I will have some rewards to give to those who have faithfully represented me. Now may I count on you to undertake to safeguard my interests in this part of the field ?’

    And you replied: ‘Yes, my friend. I am for you; I will faithfully guard your interests to the end. Tell me what you want me to do and I will do it; and I will encourage others to do the same thing?

    The election day comes on. The excitement runs high. You have labored hard. Your friend wins. He comps back to see you and to ascertain how you have looked after his interests. If you made a good report, he smiled and, clapping his hand on your back, said: ‘Good! Come now and occupy a lucrative position under my administration? If you had neglected his interests, he would say something different.

    Nuw, dear brethren, take your Bibles and read concerning the parable of the pounds, as set forth in the gospel by Luke (19:11-27). This parable was put here for a purpose, to be understood in due time. Whatsoever may have heretofore been written or said concerning this parable, we shall not now stop to quibble or quarrel about. What now may be said is no criticism of what has heretofore been said or written. It is easier to understand a parable after it has been fulfilled, or is in course of fulfillment, than before. That much all must admit. The Lord is his own interpreter. He will make it plain. The Scriptures are not of private interpretation. He has promised to make plain these things in due time. His interpretation comes to his church from him, not from man.

    Now note the record reads: “He added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.” The time and the place seem to be important here, as well as the classes to whom the words were addressed and about whom the parable speaks. This indicates that the parable would be understood just before the last members of the kingdom class enter into the new Jerusalem and when they think the kingdom is immediately at hand. The disciples with the Lord conr stituted the very beginning of the class that forms the members of the kingdom, together with the Lord, the Head. The very last members of that kingdom class are now, we believe, on earth. Where are they going just now? To the heavenly Jerusalem, to be sure. Should we not expect the Lord just now, as the church is approaching the heavenly Jerusalem, to make plain this parable ? At the moment the parable was uttered Jesus and the disciples were approaching Mount Zion in the city of Jerusalem, which is a type of the kingdom of God. Concerning this very same thing St. Paul wrote: “Ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven.”— Hebrews 13: 22, 23.

    A parable represents a reality. It is like a picture thrown on the screen, indicating the existence of a real object. “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.” The picture says that Jesus Christ is that nobleman, who went into heaven itself, there to receive at the hands of Jehovah full and complete authority to set up God’s kingdom in due time. (Daniel 2:44; Hebrews 9:24) Jesus said that he would come again and receive his bride unto himself. (John 14: 3) In 1874 he returned. In 1914 he took unto himself his great power and began to reign. (Revelation 11:18) In 1918 he came unto his temple. (See Z’22-334, column 2.) The record shows that the accounting by his servants was required “when he was returned, having received the kingdom.”

    Before the nobleman departed for the far country ha called his servants. And why did he do that? He was going away and wished to leave in their hands whatsoever interests he had to leave behind him. His servants here represent the class of Christians who have fully consecrated themselves to follow the Lord whithersoever he leads them. How many servants did he call? “And he called his ten servants.” Ten is a symbolic number representing all on earth; that is to say, the entire number of the called ones. He “delivered unto them ten pounds.” Here again ten is symbolic and represents all the pounds. Represents all of what? All the interests of his kingdom. “And he said unto them, Occupy till I come.”

    We paraphrase Jesus’ words thus: ‘As you have heretofore heard me say, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. I am the King. My chief vocation is to establish my kingdom, that will bless mankind and undo all that Satan has evilly done. For this cause came I into the world. But it is necessary for me to go away; otherwise you could not be of my kingdom. My desire is that you shall be with me and be one with me and share with me in that kingdom. Hence I go away to open the way for you. Since I am going, I will leave some one in charge of my interests, relative to my kingdom on earth. Will you undertake to look after the interests of my kingdom while I am away ? I am the light of the world. When I go away, you will be the light of the world. You will be my representatives. By you I mean you who are now my faithful disciples and all those who shall believe on me through your teaching of my doctrines. To all these I will commit all the interests of my kingdom. And I will expect each one of you, according to the measure of faith committed unto you, to look well to the interests of my kingdom while I am away.’

    The Scriptures show that such were the thoughts in the mind of Jesus, for the reason that a little while later he prayed to the Father thus: “All mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.” (John 17:10,11) “I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me.”—Luke 22: 29.

    Briefly stated, then, the ten pounds may be defined as dll the interests on earth of the kingdom of Christ. These interests are valuable things pictured in the parable by money, committed into the hands of the Lord’s servants during his absence. The parable distinctly shows that ten (all) of the pounds (interests) were committed unto ten (all of his) servants. The pounds do not belong to the servants, but belong to the Lord.

    Now the pounds could not be said to represent the justification of each Christian, for the following good and sufficient reasons: (1) Justification is granted to each individual by Jehovah (Romans 8: 33), and is an instantaneous thing which is received before one really becomes a servant of the Lord; and (2) justification means made right with God, hence justification cannot be increased by use or otherwise; and (3)—which is even a more potent reason—justification is that which is had and enjoyed by .each individual servant of God; whereas in this parable, be it noted, the pounds are not the property of the servant, but remain the property of the Lord himself. The servant also recognizes that the pound is not his own, but that it belongs to the King, as the record reads: “Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound has gained ten pounds.” Otherwise stated: ‘Thine interests concerning thy kingdom with me have increased ten times, because of the manner in which I have used thine interests or pounds.’

    The King having committed unto the servant class the interests of his kingdom, and this servant class having undertaken to look after his interests, there are thereby furnished to such servants opportunities faithfully to represent the Lord. Hence we repeat, that the pounds represent the interests of Christ’s kingdom committed to his servants, which interests thus committed furnish the servants opportunities to prove their faith fulness unto the Lord, which faithfulness would warrant him in advancing them to a position of honor and responsibility in his kingdom.

    In a kingdom there are two separate and distinct classes: First, the royal line or ruling class, composed in this instance of Jesus Christ and his servants who prove faithful unto death, and to whom is promised a share in his kingdom; and second, the subjects of that kingdom, called citizens. The parable shows these two different divisions. It reads: “But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.”

    How true to the facts! Shortly after Jesus had gone into heaven and the early church was organized and began its operations, ambitious men crept into it; and soon the message went forth from “Christendom” so-called. ‘We will not have Christ Jesus to reign over us. We will set up a hierarchy of our own on earth and will not wait for him but begin the rule now? For centuries the Roman Catholic church did this very thing. Then the Protestants were organized and followed in the same course. And today, throughout the entire world called “Christendom,” the ruling class—big business, big politicians and big preachers—claim by their words, ‘We arc Christian nations.’ Yet they utterly ignore the King, now present. They persecute the representatives of his kingdom, and say: ‘We will rule the world through a combination which we call a league or compact.’ The Lord proceeds, however, with the setting up of his kingdom.

    “And it came to pass, that when he [the Lord] was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money [his valuable interests], that he might know how much every man had gained by trading [by faithfully using his opportunities in looking after the interests of his kingdom].” It will be noted that he returns and then takes his kingdom. It was after his return to wit, in 1914, that the King took unto himself his power and began his reign. And then in 1918 he came unto his temple and began to reckon with his servants, who had undertaken to look after his interests.

    He calls the first, evidently meaning the first class who have been zealous and faithful and devoted representatives of the Lord. Those of this class responded: “Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.” They do not say: ‘Lord, my pound has gained ten other pounds’; but they do say, “Thy pound hath gained.” Otherwise stated, ‘The interests of your kingdom committed to us furnished us opportunities for using the faculties with which you endowed us; and having put forth our efforts, by your grace, to serve you and to look after the interests of your kingdom, this interest with us has increased ten times and to your glory. We are happy that we have had this blessed opportunity of serving you, and give you the glory.’ The King is pleased with this report and commends this first class for their faithfulness, saying, “Well, thou good servant; because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.”

    There can be no doubt about the fact that there will be degrees in the kingdom glory; and these degrees will be determined by the faithfulness of those who represent the Lord. Concerning this the Apostle says: “There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; and one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead.” (1 Corinthians 15:41, 42) Some have been faithful to the last degree of their ability. Others have been less faithful.

    The Lord then calls the second class, evidently representing that class of servants who have loved the Lord, loved his cause and his interests, and have been faithful to a degree, but who might have been even more faithfuL These come with their report. “And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound [not my pound] hath gained five pounds.” ‘The interests of your kingdom committed unto us we have looked after. This has furnished us opportunities, and we have performed them with gladness of heart; hence your interests with us have gained fivefold.’ Mark that Jesus does not speak to them as to the first, “Well, thou good servant”; but “he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.” He rewards them for their faithfulness, but not to the extent of the others who have been faithful to the last degree.

    Then comes another class of servants, to whom was committed the interests of the kingdom but who did not look after these interests, and who did not take advantage of the opportunity that the interests furnished. These say to the Lord: ‘We feared you, because you are austere; and so we have brought back to you all that you gave us.’ Paraphrasing Jesus’ reply to them, he says: ‘You knew that the dearest objects on earth to me were the interests of my kingdom. You knew that 1 would reward faithfulness in looking after my interests. You knew that I would require a strict accounting for the opportunities committed unto you. You have done nothing. If you did not do anything, then why did you not commit this interest to some one else, that at my coming there might have been some gain to them? Yon are a wicked servant; for you have wasted the time and have been unfaithful in looking after what I committed to you. My Father justified you and begot you and anointed you, and I appointed you my representative to guard well my interests. You became indifferent to the message of my kingdom; and even though you have known about it you have kept it to yourself, and you have gone about lending your influence to the opposer. You have been unfaithful in what you have and it shall be taken away from you and given to the faithful class.’

    One way to know that we have the proper understanding of a dark saying or parable of the Lord is, that the facts which have transpired fit the picture. How true to the facts thus indicated is the parable! All along there have been some who have known the truth and who have chosen to keep it to themselves and not to use it to the Lord’s glory. In 1918 there was a marked change in the work. The work of the church pictured by Elijah’s experiences ceased, and a little later the Elisha work began. The Lord coming to his temple about that time, the reckoning began, especially with his servants on earth. There was then a class who said: ‘The work is all done. What more can we do? We will do nothing. We will have nothing to do with those who are working, and we will even persecute and misrepresent those who are doing it. We will find fault with them.’ Some such turned away from the truth and even denied it, after having received it.

    Then the Lord revealed to his church that the time had come to proclaim boldly his presence and to announce his kingdom and to declare that the day of jubilee is at hand; hence that millions now living will never die. Not only did some of his servants balk at this and refuse to labor, but they turned against their fellow servants and even denied the presence of the Lord. Now the presence of the Lord may be denied in two ways: (1) By the direct statement that the Lord, the King, has not come; and (2) indirectly, by utter indifference to the interests of the kingdom, and a failure or refusal to use opportunities that come to one to proclaim the King and his kingdom. It seems quite clear that those who recognize the presence of the Lord, and who love his appearing, would delight to make the best showing possible of having looked after the interests committed to them and having done all they could to aid others in accomplishing the same thing.

    Then the King commands that the pound shall be taken away from the wicked servant and given to him that has ten pounds. Seemingly some object by calling to the attention of the Lord that this servant already has ten pounds. But the Lord waives this objection aside and says: “Unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.” In other words, those who have loved the interests of the Lord’s kingdom and looked for it by faithfully s.erving him, shall have more committed unto them; while those who have had something and have not used it shall have it taken away from them.

    Brom time to time we have complaints and murmurs from some who object to the work of the Society being put on an efficiency basis, and who say that there is always something being said to the friends about service. To use their language: “It is always service, service, service, and we are tired of it.” To such we would say, Brethren, stop and ask yourselves these questions: Is the King of glory present? Are we at the end of the world? Is it the due time to tell forth the glad tidings that the kingdom is here? Is it true that the new kingdom is taking its place in the divine plan and that this should be announced? Am I a consecrated child of God? Have I agreed to obey the King, whatsoever he commands?

    If these questions are answered in the affirmative, then ask: What is the proper attitude of one who expects to be in that kingdom class and to share with the King in his glory? Does not the Psalmist answer that we must have the zeal peculiar to his house? (Psalm 69: 8, 9) Is not the business of the King our business? Then what shall we do? St. Paul answers: Be “not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” (Romans 12:11) Again: “As ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.” (2 Corinthians 8: 7) And again: “We desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.” (Hebrews 6:11) And St. Peter adds: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if you do these things, ye shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:10,11) The converse of this must be true. If one is negligent, indifferent, then he is liable to fall.

    Everywhere the Scriptures condemn slothfulness. Everywhere they exhort Christians to diligence. Does not the King’s business require our best endeavors? This parable shows that those who are diligent and faithful arc the ones who receive the Lord’s approval. Experience shows that those classes throughout the country that give heed to the words of the Lord, who art diligent in their Berean studies, diligent in engaging in the service work week after week, calling from house to house, placing the books, and holding meetings, have the least trouble amongst themselves and have the greatest joy. Our only reason for urging the brethren to greater diligence and activity is, that they might be better equipped to withstand the assaults of the adversary and to win the prize that God has set before them that love him supremely.

    BRETHREN, AROUSE YOURSELVES!

    Let us have in mind that the Lord’s reckoning with his servants docs not take place in the small space of twenty-four hours. Probably he may permit some to see their opportunities slipping away from them and their zeal for his interests waning, and then give them a chance to regain that zeal and go forward and grasp the opportunities. Each one, then, who feels a disposition to grow lukewarm or indifferent at this hour should arouse himself and examine himself and the Lord’s Word, and look about him for opportunities of glorifying the Lord. We are now in a dangerous hour. Especially are the elders and other more prominent servants of the church in danger. Some of these have about come to the conclusion that no real or actual service is expected of them, because of their importance in the church; that all that is needed is for them to make a speech once a week before the class or the public. They have forgotten the interests of the Lord’s kingdom, and are looking more to self or to things about them. Hence the danger of being lulled to sleep in this very critical and important hour.

    Those who shine the brightest in the kingdom will not be the ones who hold the most prominent positions on this side the vail, necessarily. It is faithfulness that the Lord rewards. Some isolated ones who have attracted little or no attention, but who have been faithful and true to the Lord under all circumstances and grasped what few opportunities of service came to them, will doubtless be of the first class.

    Greater responsibility, however, rests upon those who are more prominent in the classes. Let us remember, dear brethren, that the Lord has committed the interests of his kingdom to his servants and has particularly made the elders overseers of the church; that these should be examples to the flock in zeal, in earnestness, in service, in loving devotion, in action, in conduct, and in exhibition of the fruits and graces of the spirit. It will not do merely to ask the brethren to go forward, and then to hold our hands and do nothing, nor to content ourselves by doing a little of what seems the more honorable work. Let each one remember that his faithfulness to the Lord will be proven by his loving devotion in doing with his might whatsoever his hands find to do. Thore is much to do now.

    HEART DEVOTION

    There can be no real, faithful service without love. Unselfish devotion to the Lord and his kingdom must be the moving cause. It must be that lore which brings to ripeness the fruits and graces of the spirit. The servants possessing such love will have such a keen desire to look after the King’s interests that they cannot remain silent and inactive. It indeed will be like a fire in their bones, impelling them to go and not to refrain their tongue from speaking and their hands from doing. The more keenly we appreciate the fact that it is our privilege to represent the Lord and his interests on earth, the greater will be our desire to represent him faithfully.

    The facts show that this parable is being fulfilled furthermore in this, that those who have had the interests of the kingdom committed to them by knowing the truth, and have failed to use the opportunities, are having such opportunities removed from them and are going into inactivity and then into darkness; while others who have been faithful in what has been committed to them are having increased opportunities. The Lord will have his work done. No one can hinder it. No amount of criticism or opposition can for a moment retard the work. The kingdom is majestically taking its place. Would that every consecrated <Tild ,,f God might fully appreciate this fact.

    PRESEN" REWARDS

    No one ever loses anything by faithfully serving the Lord. St. Paul, fully appreciating the value of faithful •Brice, earnestly beseeches the brethren to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy, acceptable unto the Lord, as their reasonable service.—Romans 12:1.

    There is a class of Christian servants who not onlv grasp opportunities of service as they come to them, but are always on the alert, looking for opportunities. There is another class, who are to a degree faithful, yet not fully so. When the one pound is taken away from the wicked servant it is not given to the one who has gained five, but to the one who has gained ten; therefore the class which has been zealous and faithful to the greater degree, which has not only been active, but which has had more loving devotion to the Lord’s kingdom, which has been striving to help others along the narrow way— to this class is the greater reward. The Lord loves faithfulness. The Lord rewards faithfulness. And when one really loves the Lord and his kingdom above everything else he will not permit anything to interfere with his service, but will be anxious to do what he can to the glory of his kingdom.

    SLAYING HIS ENEMIES

    Note that the first work of the King is to take account with his servants, and then comes the slaying of his enemies. The same process is going on just now. “Those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.” God has withdrawal his favor from nominal Christendom. No more is the voice of the Bridegroom and of the bride heard in her. She has allied herself with the devil’s organization in a combination to rule the world, ignoring Christ as the great King of kings and Lord of lords. And so now the Lord is slaying them with the brightness of his presence and the force of his message of truth. He is destroying their influence with the people. He has come forth to judge and to make war, and is making it. The time of conflict is on. The King is grandly marching to victory.—Revelation 19:11-16.

    ENTERING THE KINGDOM

    Another thing about this parable seems to possess a time feature. “And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.” Since Jerusalem represents the heavenly kingdom, the thought is here suggested that with the reckoning of the servants comes the slaying, with the message of truth and his presence, of those who refuse to hear him, and then the ascension into Jerusalem, indicating that this is the last work for the church to do on this side of the vail. The last members of the church are now, we believe, before the holy city, on this side of the vail, approaching the new Jerusalem, the general assembly of the church of the firstborn. According to their degree of faithfulness and loving devotion they are putting their hands and their feet and their voices, and everything they have, into service to the Lord’s glory, and doing it joyfully. They have the song of gladness upon their lips and are crying out: ‘Behold the King of glory; the kingdom of heaven is at hand!’—which is another way of saying, “Behold the Bridegroom!” Those who really appreciate the hour in which we are living cannot refrain from telling forth the message.

    Brethren, we beseech you to forget your petty differences now. Let every disposition to faultfinding and sullenness be dispelled by you. Let each one ask himself the question now: How am I using his (the King’s) pound? Am I faithfully representing my King? Am I giving a good report ? Let love and zeal and devotion to the Lord and his cause be the moving factor now for whatsoever is done. Gird up the loins of your mind and go forward, looking well to the interests of the King. Slack not your hand now. The words of St. John, speaking for the Lord Jesus, should ring now in the ears of each consecrated one, like the clarion notes on the morning air: “Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.”—2 John 8.

    “Behold, behold the Bridegroom, And all may enter in

    Whose lamps are trimmed and burning.

    Whose robes are white and clean.”

    QUESTIONS FOR BEREAN STUDY

    Why is this a severe testing time? ill.

    Why should we expect increased enlightenment from the Lord? II 2. Should unfulfilled expectations shake our determination to serve the Lord ? V 3.

    Why is it dangerous now to become weary in well-doing? |4.

    Why is faithfulness appreciated even in worldly organizations? 1 0-

    How does our faithfulness encourage others? fl 6.

    How is faithfulness sometimes rewarded after a successful worldly election? fl 7.

    Why is it safe to wait upon the Lord in Scriptural interpretations? fl 8.

    Why is it important to consider the circumstances of this parable?

    fl 9.

    What is a parable? fl 10.

    Why did the nobleman call his servants to himself before departing? fl 11.

    What commission did Jesus give to his disciples before leaving? fl 12.

    How did Jesus show his concern for the welfare of his disciples ? fl 13.

    What do the ten pounds represent? fl 14.

    Why does the pound not represent justification? fl 15.

    How does the use of the pound provide a test of faithfulness? II 10.

    Who are the two classes in this parable? fl 17.

    How have the servants of the Lord been persecuted? fl 18.

    When did the Lord begin to reckon with his servants? fl 19.

    How does the King reward the faithful servant? fl 20.

    T'pon xxhat will the rank of a servant in the kingdom of glory depend? fl 21.

    Why does the second class receive a less reward than the first? fl 22.

    Why was the pound taken from the third servant? fl 23.

    What test can we apply to determine the correct interpretation of a parable? fl 24.

    Jn what two ways may one deny the presence of the Lord? fl 25.

    Doos an increase in opportunities to serve the Lord indicate faithfulness"’ fl 26.

    Why xx ill sdf examination prove helpful to one who murmurs and complains ? fl 27.

    Quote some scriptures indicating that we should be zealous in serving the Lord, fl 28.

    Why should xve seek the Lord's approval at all times? fl 29.

    Seeing an opportunity of service, why should we seize it Immediately"’ fl 30.

    Does prominent position this side the vail necessarily entitle one to an exalted place in the kingdom? fl 31.

    Why should the elders be examples of service in the church? fl 32.

    Why should love be the impelling motive in our service? fl 33.

    Can criticism or opposition retard the Lord’s work? fl 34.

    What doos the expression “living sacrifice” mean? fl 35.

    Why is alertness a great asset to the Christian? fl 36.

    How has the truth performed a slaying xvork? fl 37.

    What other time-feature is in this parable? fl 38.

    Why should each determine to prove his zeal for the Lord? fl 39.

    PRAYER-MEETING TEXT COMMENTS

    "The spirit leareth witnes:, with our spirit, trial we are the children of God.”-—Romans 8:16.

    THIS text is addressed and applies to the saints. The word saints means purified ones. Such purification results from the imputed merit of Christ Jesus. These are the steps: Full consecration, imputation of Christ’s merit, presentation to the Father, justification, spirit-begetting and spirit-anointing. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”—2 Co' irthians 5:17.

    XVlicn undergoing a severe or trying experience often the Christian begins to doubt whether he is a child of God. Doubt is the result of a weak faith. Faith means to know God’s Word and confidently rely upon it. The text for this week, therefore, is very important; for the Christian is thereby enabled to determine whether or not he is a child of God.

    God’s spirit testifies to the mind or spirit of the Christian that he (the Christian) is God’s son. A witness is one who gives testimony to prove a question of fact at issue. By the mouth of two or more witnesses all questions of fact were settled according to the law given to Israel. The question of fact here is, Am I a child of God, that I may be transformed into my Savior’s likeness?

    God has given two separate and distinct lines of testimony to the Christian to prove this fact: (1) By and through his Word of truth; and (2) by his dealing with the one who is his child. To remove doubt from the mind each one should examine himself according to the witnesses.

    One of the first testimonies given to prove our son-ship is, that we can understand and appreciate the deep things of God’s Word. Only the new creature in Christ can thus understand. (1 Corinthians 2:14, 9, 10) This precious relationship was pictured by the light in the Holy of the tabernacle, to which only the priest was admitted. The children of God belonsr to the priesthood.

    Another testimony is that we are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, but find it to be the power of God unto salvation to us who believe. (Romans 1:16) One who really appreciates the love of the Lord and his message of glad tidings is not ashamed to declare.it to others and to own that he is a Christian.

    Another and most convincing testimony is love for the brethren. crWe know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.” (1 John 3 :14) Only the new creation have passed into the life condition, because they are begotten to a new hope of life.— 1 Peter 1: 3.

    Another Scriptural testimony is zeal for the Lord and his cause, which leads one to perform his reasonable service. “The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.” (Psalm 69:9; Romans 12:1) Zeal is the result of love for God and the Lord Jesus. If we appreciate what our Father and our Master have done for us, we shall really have an anxious desire to do something to their glory; and we shall be watching for opportunities to prove this love and loyalty to the Lord. This will lead to activity in the Lord’s service and to a careful watchfulness, that we may develop the fruits and graces of the spirit, to the end that we may be transformed into the character likeness of our Lord and Master.

    HIS DEALINGS

    His spirit also testifies to us by his manner of dealing with us. In bringing many sons to the glory of his kingdom it has pleased him to perfect them through sufferings. (Hebrews 2:10) If we bear these trying and fiery experiences patiently, i. e., cheerfully, we thus receive the testimony that our Father is dealing with us as sons.—Hebrews 12 : 5-8.

    If because of our zeal for the Lord we are reproached either by the world or by those who claim to be Christians, this is another testimony that we are the children of God. Jesus was thus reproached. The servant must have experiences like unto his Lord’s. (John 15:18-20) If we find that in the midst of these fiery experiences and persecutions our love for God and for Christ Jesus is increased, that our love for the brethren is also growing, and that we can even have a kindly feeling toward our enemies, desiring to do them good, this is a testimony of the Lord that we are his and that he is dealing with us as his children. It is his spirit bearing witness with our spirit. “And if children, th n heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

    Love for and loyalty and devotion to the Lord and his service will bring persecution. If persecution is cheerfully borne for Christ’s sake, it yields the peaceable fruits of righteousness, brightens our hope, shapes our character into the likeness of our Lord, and leads to everlasting glory.

    TEXT FOR FEBRUARY 14

    "Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the holy spirit, and in much assurance." —1 Thessalonians 1: I, 5.

    This text is another testimony given to us by the spirit of God that we are his children. It is positively and emphatically stated by the Apostle that we know our election or selection by the Lord. Why? Because the glad tidings of the divine plan, that the Lord is selecting the seed of promise and that through that seed he will bless all the families of the earth, comes to us not merely in word, but also in power and in the spirit and in much assurance. We have received this message not merely in a formal way, nor do we treat it indifferently, but to the Christian it is a message of life, hope, energy, and power.

    Call to mind when we were in the nominal church and believed our God to be a fiend that would torture his creatures in a lake of fire forever. It was difficult for us to love such a God. We were then afraid. We had no assurance. We were weaklings. But when the eyes of our understanding were opened and we began to see some of the lengths and breadths and heights and depths of God’s love, the glad tidings of the kingdom became unto us a power. That power resulted because of the operation of the holy spirit. From that time forward we had assurance that Jehovah is God : that he is a God of love; and that no good thing will he withhold from those who walk uprightly before him. These glad tidings became to us such a power that we were not abashed in the presence of the mighty ones of earth, nor proud and boasting in the presence of the weakest ones. But having his spirit, we became willing, yea, glad, to tell one and all, meekly and gently, of the blessings of the Lord’s kingdom. And as we have told this precious message, each one thus telling it has grown stronger. In proportion to our faithfulness to the Lord, in that proportion has our power increased, because of the glad tidings and his spirit operating in us. Only those who have the spirit of the Lord have such power and such blessed assurance from the Lord.

    Sometimes it is asked: Why is it that persons of slight education in the ordinary walks of life, who have no particular influence amongst men, would even pretend to present the message of truth? And why is it, that ■when they do, it is clearly and lucidly presented and puts to flight md shame the clergyman who is a professed follower of the Lord? The answer is: As a rule the professed clergyman has not received the spirit of the Lord; whereas this holy spirit, operating on the minds of the meek and teachable ones, those of little wisdom of this world, has made them bold and strong in the Lord, with the ability to make clear the message of the truth now revealed. The Christian who has this testimony of the spirit and who appreciates his privileges, joyfully and boldly goes forth in the strength of the Lord to put forth the message of his kingdom; and as he continues faithful he grows stronger.

    The Apostle admonishes all Christians, saying, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.” It is not our power, but the power that comes to us by the operation of his spirit; and thus his spirit operating in the mind of the Christian is transforming him into the image and likeness of his Lord and Master.

    TEXT FOR FEBRUARY 21

    "If the spirit of him that raised up Jesus fro>in the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ f rom the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his spirit that dwelleth in you.”—Romans 8:11.

    This text can apply to no one except the new creature in Christ. If, upon examination of self in the light of the Scriptures hereinbefore considered, we have the witness of the spirit that we are the children of God, then we should expect to find that the text under consideration applies to us. The word quicken as used in this week’s text means to vitalize; to energize; to enliven; to cause to move with rapidity. It means to do something to the Lord’s glory, and not to remain inactive. It means to glorify God with the body, which is his.— 1 Corinthians 6: 20.

    The new creature in Christ consists of the will, devoted to the Lord; the mind, which is searching God’s Word that it may be in harmony with his will; and the heart, which is the scat of affections and from which emanates the motive for action. And since a creature cannot exist without an organism, the body of flesh, called the mortal body, is for the time being the organism of the new creature. With this body and upon it the Lord has arranged for the new creature to practise until such time as h.e develops a character pleasing unto the Lord, and which will warrant the Lord in clothing him with a new and glorious body.

    The transformation of the new creature takes place chiefly in the mind. “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,” says the Apostle. (Homans 12:2) The mind is really the battleground. “Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end.” (1 Peter 1:13) The mind searches out God’s Word to ascertain his will; and the will of the new creature directs and controls the mortal body as to what it shall do. “Now if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” (Romans 8:9) But if one has the spirit of Christ dwelling in him, he belongs to Christ; and the spirit of Christ will make his body alive to action, to the Lord’s glory. Therefore says the Apostle: “To be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

    The holy spirit, the spirit of Jehovah, is so mighty that it raised up Jesus from the dead. It is able to make alive, energize, the human body to activity in service for righteousness, even though that body was once given over to sin. The Lord therefore urges all who have the spirit or mind of Christ not only to be dead to sin but to permit the spirit of Christ dwelling in them to make them alive to holiness and to God’s service. One who thus has the spirit of the Lord is the son of God, and ha must bear fruit unto holiness. The holy spirit dwelling in one, therefore, causes such a one to study (consider) to show himself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed; that is to say, he tries diligently to ascertain from God’s Word what is the will of God concerning himself, and then faithfully endeavors to bring himself within the scope of the divine will, that by so doing he may be transformed into the likeness of his Lord and Master, Christ Jesus.

    The new creature now is responsible for the mortal body. Hence the spirit of Christ dwelling in him will lead him to use his strength, energy, time, influence, money, and everything he has, to the Lord’s glory. This spirit will lead him to give all diligence to increase his faith by studying and relying upon God’s Word; to increase his fortitude or steadfastness in the Lord and in his service; to grow in knowledge; to bring himself under the proper control; to endure trials cheerfully; to grow more Godlike; and to exercise kindness toward the brethren and love toward all, doing good unto all as he has opportunity, especially to the household of faith. So, says the Apostle: “Brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This admonition of the Apostle to diligence, together with our week text, shows the necessity of activity in the Lord’s service. Of course we must give the time to provide things needful for ourselves and dependent ones. This is our avocation. Our real vocation or business is to prepare ourselves for the kingdom; and in order to do this we must use our bodies, as well as our minds, to the glory of the Lord. The transformation into the likeness of the Lord is a gradual growth. The reward comes to one who continues faithfully unto the end.

    “HERE AM I, SEND ME, SEND ME”

    Hark I the voice of Jesus crying, “Who will go and work today?

    Fields are white and harvest waiting;

    Who will bear the sheaves away?” Loud and strong the Master calleth, Rich reward he offers thee;

    Who will answer, gladly saying: “Here am I, send me, send me?"

    If you cannot cross the oceans

    And the heathen lands explore, You can find the heathen nearer:

    You can help him at your door.

    If you cannot speak like angels, If you cannot preach like Paul,

    You can tell the love of Jesus;

    You can say he died for all.

    If you cannot be the watchman

    Standing high on Zion’s wall,

    Pointing out the path to heaven,

    Offering life and peace to all,

    With your prayers and with your bounties

    You can do what heaven demands—

    You can be like faithful Aaron, Holding up the prophet’s hands.

    Let none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do”;

    When the hearts'of men are falling

    And the Master calls for you.

    Take the task he gives you gladly;

    Let his work your pleasure be;

    Answer quickly when he calleth:

    “Here am I, send me, send me.”

    THE SPIRIT OF PRAYER

    ■---Febbuaby 11---Luke 18---

    TH® PBAYEB WITH ANSWER DELAYED-THE PRAYER NOW ANSWERED-THE TRUE HEART ATTITUDE FOB PBAYEB-HUMILITY

    ALWAYS AN ESSENTIAL--THE DANGER OF BICHES—URGENT DESIRE IN PRAYER.

    “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, 0 God, thou wilt not despise."

    —Psalm 51:11.

    JESUS continued his instruction to his disciples, and through them to the church. Now he speaks to them about prayer. The Authorized Version reads as if our Lord said: “Men ought always to pray”; but he did not say that. Our Lord never urged all men to pray; for prayer is a privilege given to God’s people. He knew that during the interval between his departure and his return to them from heaven, much trial would come upon his followers

    When, sometime previously, the disciples had asked their Master for instruction how to pray, and in response he had given the prayer known as the Lord’s prayer, he also gave them an illustration of the power of persistency, and led them to understand that there must be considerable importunity for a prayer to gain its end. (Luke 11:1-9) When now our Lord reverts to the subject of prayer, he said that his disciples ought to pray continually, and not grow weary. To illustrate he spoke a parable. He told of a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man. In his city was a widow who went to the judge, asking for justice and deliverance from an oppressor. The judge cared nothing for the justice of the case, nor for the suffering of the widow; but he said: “Though I fear not God, nor regard man; yet because this widow troubleth me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.” Jesus takes this parable and uses it in two ways: (1) by comparison, and (2) by contrast. We are to suppose that our Lord intended his disciples to understand that importunity is necessary; and therefore that the woman's persistency must be an example for those who go to God in prayer. But we must also take It by contrast; for we could not think other than that he is compassionate towards those who go to him, and especially so towards his own elect who cry to him day and night* Jesus said: “I tell you that he will avenge them speedily.”

    But questions arise: Why must there be a trial of faith and patience in prayer? Why the need of the injunction not to faint in prayer if God answers speedily? And what Is the meaning of Jesus’ words, “Though he bear long with them?” And why the query raised by Jesus, “Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find this faith on the earth?” (v. 8, Diaglott) as if there would have been so much trial of faith and patience that hardly anyone would be found expecting a response.

    THE PRAYER WITH ANSWER DELAYED

    From these two parables many have thought that Jesus meant his disciples to understand that the only way to get answers to prayer is by a persistent and even noisy importunity. We believe this is a serious mistake, and contrary to the Master’s intention. However, the fact remains that God does not answer all prayers quickly, and that often he keeps his children suppliant at the throne of grace. Yet it is as often the case that God’s answers to prayers are remarkably quick, as the prophet Isaiah has it: “Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will bear.”—Isaiah 65: 24.

    There is one prayer, however, which has been offered more frequently and more fervently than any other—the first and the last great prayer of the church, for the answer to which God lias therefore kept his people waiting longest and with greatest desire, and whose non-answer has worn out the faith of many—the prayer, “Thy kingdom come.” And there to little doubt that this was the prayer which Jesus had in mind; for he knew that his church would be oppressed, and his people caused to cry for deliverance from their oppressors. Like Israel in Egypt, their type, they needed deliverance from Satan’s injustice. They cry for the avenging of their blood, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?” (Revelation 6:10) God could not answer this prayer before the due time; and the time was long, and Satan tried to wear out the saints of the Most High.—Daniel 7: 25.

    But immediately the hour came, speedily God sent deliverance. The Psalmist speaking of this says: “In the morning shall my prayer come before thee.” (Psalm 88:13) Immediately the morning of the Millennial day came, early, and before his people realized it had come, God sent the answer. The Redeemer returned to save and bless his people. Without doubt this parable was given to cheer God’s people in those long, dark days of waiting, and to nullify any temptation to believe he was negligent to their cry.

    …