The Watchtower, April 1, 1923
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Upon the earth distress of nations with perplexity: the sea and the waves (the restless, discontented) roaring; men’s hearts failing them for fear and for looking te the things coming jnon the earth (society); for the powers of the heavens (ecclesiasticsm) shall be shaken. . . When ye see these things begin to come to paas, their know that the Kingdom of God is at hand. Look up, lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.—Matt. 24:33; Mark 13:29; Luke 21:25*31
THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS Journal la one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now bein£ 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 the coming of its traveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims”, and refreshed with reports of its conventions.
Our “Berean Lessons” are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society’s published Studies most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all who would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz., Verbi Dei Minister (V. D. M.), 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 2:0 Building up on thi^ sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: 1115, 2 Peter 1’5-11) of the Word of God, its further mi»:on is to “make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which. . .has been hid in God, ... to the intent that now might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God”—“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed”.—Ephesians 3 : 5-9,10.
It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of mon. v h?.e it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in (he 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 impL.it laLh upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in hi? service; hence our decisions relative to what maj and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of hr good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuild.ng of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge ou 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 .ago—ever sr.re Christ became the world's Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God's ble. .iiv: .shall come “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:16, 17; Ephesians 2:20-22; Genesis 28 : 1 1 ; Galatians 3 : 29.
That meantime the (-hireling, shaping, and polishing of consecrated believers in Christ’s atonement for sin, progresses; and when the last of these “living stones”, “elect and precious,” sluul have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the Li >t resuru < tion: and the temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.—Revelation 15:5 s.
That the basis of hope, for the church a”d the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man.” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world”, “in due time”.— Hebrews 2:9; John 1 : 9 ; 1 Timothy 2:5, G.
That the hope of the church is that sho may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be ‘partaker of the divine nature / and share his glory as bis 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 vvitne s 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, the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all Hie willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified church, when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3: 19-23; Isaiah 35.
Published ay
WATCH TOWER.Bl BLE TRACT SOCIETY
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ri.rxsE Address the Society in Every Case.
YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION PRICE; United States, $1.00; Cannda and Miscellaneous Foreign, $1.50. Great Britain, Al s'irvlasta, and SOUTH Africa, 8s. American remittance* should be made by Express or Postal Money Orders, or by Bank Draft. Canadian, British, South African, and Australasian remittances should be made to branth 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 Hie supervision of an editorial committee, at least three of whom have read and approved as truth each and every article appearing in these < olumns. The names of the editorial committee are: J. F. Rutherford, W. E. Van Amburgh, G. H. Fisher. R. H. Bmiber^
Terms to theiwd*8 Poor: All Bible students who, by reason of old ag-o other infirmity or advers^y, ar® unable to nay for this journal, will be supplied freo if they send ft postal card each May stating their case and reuniting such prov.sion. W® are not only willing:, but anxious that all such be on our 1st continually and m touch with the Berean stucies.
Nnfirv to Rnhtmhtir* • We do Dot, as a rule, send a card of ackmwledgrnent for a renewal or police W auoecnoers, jnr a new subscr-^uou. Receipt ar < <. cry of ieoewaj are indicated
Entered a» Second Close Matter at Brooklyn, N. Y., Pottoffie- ■urdcr the Act of March 3rd, 1879, .
REDUCED PRICE OF BOOKS
In re reduced price of books, these prices apply to the United States and Canada alone. Revised price list for Great Britain and other countries will be announced later.
CONVENTIONS TO BE ADDRESSED BY BROTHER RUTHERFORD
Newark, N. J., April S._ .............Miss Tielle Naughright. 115 4th St.
Pnu-wnr.rniA, Pa.. April 15... Goo G Cullioon. GO19 N totli St. Norfolk, Va., April 22...............G. M. Kitzmiller, 114 West 26111 St.
Lancaster, Pa., April 29....... A. M. Zimmerman, 130 East Clay St.
Cfjcago, III,, May 11-13_____________A. L. Seeley, 7642 Normal Ave.
AN AID TO COLPORTEURS
The reduced price of the books is bringing many new colporteurs into the field; also many additional workers in the classes. The outlook is Hint this will be (he best year thus far for the sale of books. There has for some time been a demand for a case in which the colporteurs might carry and exhibit their books. To aid all canvassers in exhibiting and selling the books, the Society is having manufactured a case which ordinarily sells for 87.00 to ?S.OO. An illustration of the ease appears above. It is made of basswood 8x11 xG covered with black moroccoline, green silk plush lined, nickel trimmed, and large enough to hold the seven volumes Studies in the Scbiptukes and The Harp of God.
Price: With Nickeled Corner Trimmings............$2.50
With Plain Corners 2.25
Carriage charges collect.
This is a specially attractive case; and we believe it will be a great convenience and help to the colporteurs. It is far better than a prospectus, enabling the colporteur to keep his books clean and show his customer exactly what they are. Order quickly if you wish one, sending remittance with order.
AND HERALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE
Vol. NLIV
Apbil 1, 1923
No. 7
"SLACK NOT THINE HANDS”
LABORERS TO THE FRONT !—GREAT IS THE WORK—ARE TOE POING TOLK PART?-WHAT IS ZION?—WHO COMPOSE
IT?—WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE SLACK?—DUTY OF THE HOUR.
“In that day it shall be said ... to Zion, Let not thine hands be slack.'"—Zephaniah 3:16.
COLPORTEURS, prospective colporteurs, class workers, eldeis--in fuel, all who are ambassadors of Christ the King—please give earnest heed. Are you fully consecrated to the Lord? If so, these words are addressed to you. Do you appreciate the fact that the King has committed into your hands certain interests of his kingdom, which lays upon you great responsibility ? Are you rendering a good account, that the King may he pleased? Or do you find a disposition to slack your hands? If so, take a careful and prayerful survey of the situation and then determine what is your privilege, and therefore what is your duty.
WHAT IS ’-’.ION?
2Before examining the words of the Prophet in the light of present-hour conditions, let us determine from the evidence whether or not we come within the meaning of the text, in order that all doubt may be removed as to what we should do.
3Bricfly defined, Zion means God’s organization through which he is doing a certain part of his work. Satan the devil has an organization invisible and also a visible organization through which he has long been doing his work. Satan’s organization is designated as a “beast.” His empire is under judgment. War is on between the “beast” and the Lamb, the Head of Zion, God’s organization. The lines are now clearly drawn. It is a fight to a finish.
Whenever and wherever a name is applied by Jehovah to his creatures it means much. It will aid some to grasp the force of this text by briefly referring to the meaning of Zion. We quote from the words written by Brother Russell:
B“The name ‘Zion’ was anciently applied to a prominent hill of Jerusalem, generally regarded as the southwestern and highest of those on which the city was built. It included the most ancient part of the city with the citadel; and, being first occupied for a palace, it was called ‘the city of David.’ (2 Chronicles 5:2) It was also called the ‘holy hill,’ or ‘hill of the sanctuary’ (Psalm 2:6), being the original site of the tabernacle, pitched by David for the reception of the ark.
'“By the prophets the name was olten put for Jerusalem itscll, and also for its inhabitants, siuncl lines called sons or daughters of Zion. It was also used in a wider sense, as wa ; Jerusalem also, to signify the entire nation of Israel. Awl since fleshly Israel was typical of spiritual Israel, the Gospel church, the sj niholism applies with still deeper sig-niin.ince to the Gospel church, which term, throughout tho Gon>ol age, included the entire body of professed Christians, all of whom are on probation for full membership in the chut. .I triumphant—the true church, the Zion of the future, and :he true Zion of the present age, the elect ‘little flock’ to whom it is the Father's good pleasure to give the kingdom. In the symbolic application of the term we must t,'. ‘chore judge from the character of the propla ey whether the reference is to the fleshly or to the spiritual house of Israel, or to both; ->r, if to the latter, wrether it applies in its broadest sense to the nominal Gospel church, or to the elect little flock, the only true church in God’s esli nation.” —Z’94-135.
7ft seems manifest from the text and context under examination that Zion here means the little flock. God’s chosen people, as defined in the above quotation. Zion when complete beyond the vail is God’s habitation, through which he will deal with the world. The members of Zion thi- side the vail therefore represent his organization visible. “The Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.” (Psalm 132:13) “fii Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.” (Psalm 76:2) It is the house of sons of which Jesus is Head, and of which house are we, provided we are his and hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. (Hebrews 3:6) Prom the day of Pentecost until now, God’s people have been the light of the world, through whom the Lord has shone: “Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.”—Psalm 50 : 2.
8The Lord gives assurance that the time will come when the people will know who has been born in Zion. “Glorious things are spoken of thee, 0 city of God. And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her; and the highest himself shall establish her.” (Psalm 87: 3, 5) It will then be the glory of the peoples of the earth. “Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city »»
of the great King.” (Psalm 48: 2) This is a beautiful poetic expression descriptive of God's organization through which he will bring blessings to the families of the earth. That Zion is constituted of God's people, therefore the divine organization, the Prophet makes clear: “I have put my words in thy mouth, and I have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and snv unto Zion. Thou art peop>lc."—Isaiah 51: 16.
’The apostle Peter quotes from the prophet Isaiah thus: “Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious”: and then says concerning those who are with the Lord: “Ye arc a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar peoni-; that ye should show forth the praises of linn who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:6,9) The apostle Paul speaks of Zion as “the temple of the living God.” (2 Corinthians 6: 16) Thus the Scriptures remove all doubt as to who constitute the real Zion of Jehovah., both this side and beyond the vail.
“God’s prophet foreshadowed that the time would come when Zion (the true church this side the vail) should be no more deceived: that then the trumpet would give forth no uncertain sound, but that its sound would be clear in order that all might prepare for battle and move forward in harmonious action. (Isaiah 52: 1) When is that time? When the King shall take unto himself his great power and reign ; and that time has come. (Revelation 11:17; Isaiah 52: 7) It is the time when the Bridegroom comes to his people in his temple, a time of rejoicing and a time of great te.-ting to the church and of judgment upon the nations of the earth (Psalm 11: 4, 5 : Micah 1:2), a time of joy because the Bridegroom as King is here; and his faithful ones, going out to meet him and to join with him in his work, are crying out: “Behold the King and his kingdom —a time in which the members of Zion this side the vail will be encouraging one another, working together in harmony, each one performing his or her assigned part. It must be apparent to all consecrated, anointed Christians that the church is now in that time.
WHO AM 11
’’Zion having now been located, the next question is, Who are the ones composing Zion, the divine organization this side the vail ? It is expected that what is here said will appeal to those who are consecrated, begotten and anointed of the holy spirit, and who appreciate present privileges. These words are not addressed to anyone else. Each reader, therefore, must judge for himself as to whether or not what is here said applies to him. Let each consecrated Christian, then, ask himself these questions:
12Who am I? Have I been begotten and anointed of the holy spirit? Am I a member of the royal priesthood? If so, am I showing that I appreciate the fact of the presence of the King and his reign begun, and that I am privileged to be a faithful and true witness for him in this old world of Satan that is crumbling to pieces? Do I appreciate the fact that the final battle is on between the bea>t and the Lamb? Am I on the Lord's side unqualifiedly, doing with my might what my hands find to do? Do I appreciate the fad that the eyes of the angels of heaven are looking on with keenest interest as the battle advanci -, and that I have afforded me a privilege in that battle that the angels of heaven iwver have had? Am I willing now to take my part in that battle for the cause of the Lord and hold aloft the banner of mv King? Ain I iovfullv haring the call of the Lord and responding, “Here am 1, send me”? If I have been somewhat negligent in the exorcise of my privilege and duty, do T now find in my In a it an anxious de.-ire to hare a pait in the work of ad\erti--mg the King and his kingdom? Those who can truly cw. or these questions in the affirmative are surely of Zcm, the Lord's organization now on earth.
“The Scriptures abound with proof that the tmo would come when the Zion cla<s this side the vail would be permitted to engage in a special work. When is that time ?
“THAT DAY”
14The Prophet, in the text under consideration, ,>ays: “In that day it shall be said to Zion.” The text and the context show that the time embraced within “that day” is a period during the presence of the Lord, the King of kings; and pa’ticularly when he ha> taken unto himself his power, „as come unto his temple, and is engaged in dashing the nations to pieces in the day of God’s vengeance when his indignation and his fierce anger are being expressed against Satan’s empire.
“From the conditions surrounding us in the world there can surely be no doubt in the mind of a truly consecrated and alert Christian that we are now in “that day.” Russia, which seems to be held forth by the Prophet as an example of what will come to the nations of Christendom, has passed from revolution into a worse state, having repudiated all religion, denying God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Many other nations of Europe are following rapidly in the same way. All of Christendom, in fact, is rapidly disintegrating; and upon every hand we see the evidences of the presence of the King of glory, who is clearing the field that the blessing of the world may follow.
“"’This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118: 24) The words of the Prophet here seem to apply to the same time. Why should we now rejoice? The answer is, Because the King of glory is here, exercising his kingly powers; because the old world has ended and Satan’s empire is passing away; because it is the time referred to by our Lord when he said: “When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your deliverance draweth nigh” (Luke 21:28); because it is the day in which “the stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the comer.” (Psalm 118: 22) Nominal Zion has rejected the Lord Jesus Christ and his kingdom, and has joined hands with the devil’s organization, thereby rejecting the chief corner stone of the divine organization. In the days of Satan’s kings the God of heaven is setting up his kingdom, which shall stand former; and the true Zion, seeing this, is rejoicing in it.—Daniel 2: 44.
17The Lord has come to his temple and it is a time of trial and testing. (Psalm 11: 4, 5; 1 Peter 4: 17) It is the time when men’s souls are being tried, referred to by Jesus when he said: “Ue that shall endure unto t’m end, the same shall be saved.-’ (Matthew 24:13) “In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21: 19) It is a time of tremendous te.-tmg of the faith and the cheerful endurance of the p ople of God. While rejoicing in the presence of the Lord, every true soldier, anxious to win, appreciates the perils of the hour and the necessity for prayer and watchfulness, and in the language of the Psalmist is saying, “Save now, I beseech thee, 0 Lord; . . . send now prosperity.”— Psalm 118: 25.
lsWhile battling valiantly on the. Lord’s side, those of Zion recognize that victory is to those only who are strong in the Lord and in the power of his might, 'who keep on his armor and stay close to him and joyfully obey his commands. These are '-onfidently saying, “The Lord is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.”—Psalm 118:14.
WEARY IN WELL-DOING
lsThe Scriptures clearly indicate that in “that day” there would be a tendency on the part of some in Zion to become negligent, indifferent, weary in well-doing, and to refrain from pressing on in the battle. Hence God caused his prophet to write: “In that day it shall be said to Zion, Let not thine hands be slack.” The more fact that that the Prophet makes this statement is proof conclusive that there would be danger in slackness in that day. God’s prophet having spoken these words, they must have fulfilment; and it must be said to Zion : “Let not thine hands be slack.”
WHAT IT MEANS
20What is the meaning of ‘slacking the hands’? The hand is a symbol of active power. The Lord has placed certain powers, duties and obligations in the hands of his people; lienee there is a responsibility upon them to use the same. Slacking the hands would mean a failure or refusal to use continuously that power, according to the Lord’s appointed way.
21 Slack means to faint; to become weary in welldoing; to relax in battle. It means to become slothful, lazy, indifferent, and to abate activity. It means to become idle or tardy, and to withhold the exercising of energy. It means to become negligent by failing to be diligent; or it may mean to become fearful and withdraw from activity and remain silent. In any case, it is da. gerous. Note how St. Paul emphasizes the necessity for continued activity, even to the end: “Therefore we should not l!ag m doing vv<ll; for «e shall reap at the proper season if we do not relax.” (Galatians 6:9, Dia/jlott) “For consider hmi who endured such contradiction of sinners again.-t luniself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Ye have not }et resisted unto blood, striving against sm.” (lb brews 12:3,4) Resisting unto blood means resoling unto the mid; and the inference here is that ve must continue the fight unto the end. “And we de we that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.” (Hebr. \\s 6:11) “Not ‘ lothful m business [the business of Zion, the King-- Im-miessJ ; fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.”—Roman- 12:11.
-’-’In the light of th? going array of Scriptural proof, no coim mated Cbriban will fail to see the necessity of exhorting one another to continued activity as the end of the battle draws near. There will be some who will murmur and complain and say: “Again The Watch Tower is urging to service.-’ St. Jude foreshadowed this class. i^.Jude 16-21) lint those who diligently strive to do the Lord’s will, who are guided by his counsel, who put selfishness out of sight, will keep themselves in the love of God.
OPPORTUNITY FOR COLPORTEURS
2SSome of the faithful colporteurs for a time have been forced to leave the field, because of inability to make necessary expenses. The price of the books ha3 had much to do with this. Conditions have made everything expensive and high. We see the necessity of reducing the price of the books, that the message of the kingdom may be put into the hands of the people. The Lord in his goodness has made this possible. The price of The Harp of God has heretofore been reduced, and it has been the intention to reduce the price of the Studies! in the Scriptures some time during the year, as soon as our printing plant is paid for and the higher-priced stock moved olf. But now the necessity seems urgent; even by selling the books at a lower price than the cost of production ; therefore at a loss. The Sociotv has on hand a number of books produced at high cost, which will be sold at a loss in order to aid the workers in the field and to get the message quickly to the people.
24By the efforts of consecrated brethren, whom the Lord has sent here to operate the machines which he has provided, we can produce more books to put into the hands of the workers at the reduced price. Therefore, beginning with February 1, the price of the seven volumes of Studies in the Scriptures, cloth-bound library edition, together with The Harp of God, eight books, containing in the aggregate 3,500 pages, will be to the public the very low sum of $2.85; and the price to the colporteurs and other workers will be so much less than the retail price that the workers will be able easily to provide their expenses, even good wages; and the people can have the advantage of the message of the kingdom.
A THOUSAND MORE COLPORTEURS!
“Evon- colporteur who hns for a tiino renamed from service we hope to sec immediately reenter the service. In the United Sunes there arc more than a hundred million peopl.-. Tne.-v should hear the message of the kingdom. There »h«:uki a: ka.-: one thousand more of tisi> con—ernied uii-iiiiei; ent'-:- the colporteur service imn.cdiiii ly. By ii. ■ l.< i.i’? :rrsc . tin’ consecrated hands at :..;:>i:su::rTers will print ami luriii the message; a::-; the bri thr.n in the iii-bl v.-: > appr.-eime the neccs-siiv «i activity will carry tin- im- ■iie > th'? p ■opk.
- Why is it ncces.-ar-.- that there should he such activity; some will a-;;. Vi- ::;>wer: l»ecau=e the war i« on bi t ween the ka-t and th * Lain':', and the people of Zion mu. t nre.-s th? ii^i t: and tney that shall :tand victor-ioti' with him Mill i>-? those not only cull, i and chos-n. Li;' fai.i'H.! to the end; hecair- ■ the King is here to ju : . ■ aial to make war: because the old world has ended ai:<; Satan's empire is under judgment: because the kineiion:. for which the whole creation has groaned and travailed in pain until now. is r.t hand < Homans e: 2:1), am; million-: of people will have opportunity to live forever and r.ot di-". ami bocau-c Jcsu- has said to the people of Zion: “This gospel of the kii— mi.. shall be pr.ached in all the world for a witness iun<> all nations: and then shall the end come.”—Matthew 2-i: 14.
STJ’»esides the United States and Canada, there are ma:-y ether countries, in Europe, Asia, and Africa, wlior? we must help to send tlv message to the people wl.ii1 there remains a short time for proclaiming the me before the final end. Before the dark night set ii>‘s down upon America as it has upon Russia, let every consecrated Christian, every one who appreciates th-- privilege of serving the Lord, nut forth his best ciiiivavors; and let each one who is of Zion, as he goes forth to advertise the King and his kingdom, say to his brother in Zion: Fear not; be of good courage. It is the day of the Lord. “Let not thine hands be slack. The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty*; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in
his love; he will joy over thee with singing.”—Zephaniah 3:16,17. *
-’Let every one of the Zion class in the United States who can enter the colporteur work, or the auxiliary colporteur work, write the -Society for plans auu <h tails. Let every one of such ir. other countries writ, the Society's headquarters in the country where he or she resides.
-"’The King's business is our business if we are of Zion. “Say among ill ■ nations that the Lord rcigiiotli: the world [order of ihinir-] also shall be estabii-hed. that it shall not iie nwi-c: he [the King | shall judge the people righteously." d’.-aim 96:10) The par-ac.-:; for the ills of humankind, and the only one, is b: ■ Mi-.- ianie kingdom. Let no otic in Zion now fail to t.’.l i- rt.> tit's message. “Let not thine hands be slack"; f-->r t:::- Lor-! is leading his army to victory. The day of dcliv rant? is at hand!
QUESTIONS FOR BEREAN STUDY
Tn whom nrn Ilin w«nl« of Zml-.nnlnli 3: Ifi nrt-lm«s<-I* r 1.
“Zioi." v.tuit, ami (;o we Und ourselvc: will uiiiun its
nv-anir.:'. ? r 2.
Why s'l.nilil «« give particular heed to wont’ ti-o-1 by Jehovah?
How m:’y 11:’ wnr I | . v.T-i.umly iindcruon-’, aril which is
th-- i: ••■iri.n r i.—:iiii:..‘ <•.
Don< l-inl us-.- bis visilih ......:i'liraiion to shed forth li-lit. amt how?
r -
I- • •
Shall Zinn in th- full -i- -i-:' ■ illf.inina’i- ar.il blo«s at! pcm.i ? f «.
Huw tin the .'-■'ri'-iui'i's :' -:ire us that Zion is the rovai (-."u-.ilioud. vi. iblo .Ti l ii'vMI.I---; ' ;i.
What i-' th-.' imp!;. Im th— livins when the Bridegroom meets ii Ibu--' -.a ■ iinr ;>> ? r ju.
Wl.”. tlii'i'einre. i.. tin- Zinn ci:l-<. mid who should answer the qui-s-Ir r11.
Wlni :ii:i I? :iu<l. Who.” nm 1; Arc these vital question-: in our i hri i!::n i-iillsTiiii'i't! la.
Do k-s-:i iuti-i'i-st. .iio. ami gratitude to God enter into the present Iniioi-s nf loie'r r 1”.
“In that il.-iy" refers sp'-i-iiienlly to what pcriml of tint”? ' 13. 1-1.
Why is the Lord niaklii-- riddance of the “kingdoms of tins Mniiil"?
I Hl.
When the day conies for the iliscnlntion of the old order and men's
licnrts a it f.-illii--.- them inr fear of the things they see coming, whnt should th - .'-iiii.i do? r 1G.
Should we expect this tn lie a time of trial, testing, and victory? 117.
What three ’bines arc c-i-i-mi.-il for us in the present crlsli-; . IS
Why does tin- Lord fii- th - -.I'rltinil. “Let Hut tillin' Imads be alack.'' mid give it n r-’iti:.-. i-.i-idii-nble tor our ilnv? r I'.1.
What is the sieuiiicam-i! ”1 the word “hand.--,'' and wlni alone are
in diimser? I lln.
In how many ways may slai-kno" be dnnccrmis? J SI.
“Itii i Hili-: unto blnod'' siiruiiiv- uliat? t.'mne corroborative scripture.. I 21.
Is it a God-given priviioL-o to exhort one another to faithfulness?
I 22. _ _
Is iiim-e cooperation in th- Zion class to spread the light? 123,24.
Why is sin-li nctiii-v i-i ■ary? ' 2.">-2b.
What i: the only , a--:.....a i t tin- ills of mankind, and whose busi
ness is the King- .-- Ir.;. ..as.- I 29.
OUR PASSOVER
“This is my body.” the Master said. “Which is broken for you this dny;
Ami tills my blood, which is being shed To open lor you the way.”
(Hi. the pain that the Savior bore. And the grief that the Pure One knew! By men depraved He was bruised sore— Though not for himself, but you.
Man could not grasp. His wondrous thought, Nur the mnu.-'dlesi'b-ve that was shown.
It was an unfriendly r:-ce He sought;
He suil'ered and died -done.
And now comes the call to His faithful few:
“You may share what is left behind
Of the grief and suffering the Loved One knew For the blessing of all mankind."
So may each to the table worthily come— Nor earthly loss bemoan
Till he finally hear that sweet “Well done! Sit down in my Father's throne.”
JOY OF THE LORD
"Thou hast been faithful over a few things, 1 will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."—Matthew 25:21.
HAVE you entered into the joy of the Lord? This is a personal question which each new creature in Christ should ask and answer to himself ,: for this is the day in which the Lord is taking account witli his servants. The parable of the talent; represents our Lord, the Head of the kingdom class, going away into heaven to prepare to receive the members of his royal family and to return for them. He leaves behind him his servants: and into the hands of all his servants he delivers the interests of his kingdom, which he calls his good.-.. To each of these servants he gives a portion of his goods, which are of value and which he designates as talents. To each one he delivers a portion of his good; or talents, in proportion to each one's ability or canacirv. Each sen ant is expected to make a proper use of such talents by faithfully looking out for his kingdom interests, and to report to the Lord in his due time upon his return. The absence of the Lord covers a long period of time. In due time he returns and comes into the possession of his own.
his joy
:\Vhat constitutes the joy of the Lord mentioned in this parable? The beauty, joy, and happiness of the peiject man was destroyed by the evil one, who caused sin to enter the world and death by sin. Centuries ago Cod planned to rc-tore to the obedient ones of mankind all that had been lost by reason of sin. To accomplish this he arranged that his beloved Son should provide redemption for man, cooperate in the selection of the members of his royal family from among men, set up his kimrdom, and through that kingdom bring blessings to all mankind.
“Jesus often emphasized the importance of his coming kingdom. He began and closed his earthly ministry with sneech pertaining to that kingdom. That his servant; might bo impressed with the importance of the kingdom, he trmar.t them ever to pray: “Thy kingdom com?: thy will be done on earth as it is done in heaven.” He locked forv.ard to the establishment of his kingdom with arcat joy. lie referred to that joy when instituting the memorial of his death. His inspired apostles looked forward to his coming kimrdom as the greatest of all events. The joy of the Lord, therefore, is the establishment of his kingdom, the honor and glory it will confer unon Jehovah’s name and the blessings that it will bring to all the human race.
“The Lord's second presence dates from 1874. Thereafter and until 1914. he engaged in a preparatory worK. Then he took unto himself his great power and began his reign. Now, in his own language, he comes forth and “'in righteousness he doth judge and make war.” (Revelation 19:11) Amongst the work of judging now going on is the taking of account with his own servants.
ACCOUNTING
“When one is begotten to the divine nature and becomes a servant of the Lord, there are committed into his hands certain interests of the Lord’s kingdom, which interests are called talents. These interests are delivered to the servant in proportion to his ability: and his ability is determined by the measure of the spirit of the Lord which he has. Ability of such means his capacity joyfully to do the will of the Lord and laithfully to look after the Lord’s kingdom interests. The kingdom interests consist of making proclamation to others concerning that kingdom, instructing those who have the hearing car. building up the prospective memo. of the kingdom, including himself, and pointing other= to the fact that the Lord's kingdom 1- the only remedy for the ills of humankind. The one ul.o jovially and laithfully looks after >uch kingdom intemu . increases his capacity for service, and his oppcnuniiks for service increase; and in thu- doing he increases tile kingdom interests.
“The Lord rewards his servants not because of what they have gained, but because of their faithfulness and loyalty. His rewards are twofold; namely, one present and one future. The present reward is the joy of the Lord. Tiie future reward is to be a position of authority under the King in his kingdom.
7The Apostle emphasizes the fact that the Lord has a crown for those who love his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:8) The Lord being now present and taking account with his servants, as he finds one faithful he invites that one to enter into his joy. Hence the importance to every consecraied Christian of the following questions:
“Do you appreciate the fact that the Lord is now present and has begun his reign ; and that to him it is a great joy to establish his kingdom and thus to honor his Father by enthroning righteousness in the earth, and to bring blessings to suiicring humanity?
’] »o von appreciate the fact that the kingdom is the greatest arrangement of all time; and that it really means the inauguration of a new heaven and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness?
10Do you appreciate the fact that the Lord has honored you by giving you a part in making known to the people in this hour of great stress and suffering that his kingdom is here and that it will relieve them and bring to them the lasting blessings of life, liberty and happiness ?
nDo you love the Lord and his kingdom above everything else?
“Every one who can answer these questions in the affirmative will surely have much joy of heart, which joy comes from the Lord. The more keenly one appreciates what the kingdom really means to humanity, the more fully will he enter into the joy of the Lord, and the greater will be his enthusiasm concerning that king-103
dom, and the greater will be his desire to make it known to others.
lsBack of us we see a period of six thousand years during which humanity has suffered indescribable agonies and miseries, depraving man’s character until the image of God is almost obliterated from mankind. Now the earth is filled with violence. The spirit of selfishness and wickedness is prevalent in every part of the earth; every man’s hand is against his neighbor; and the whole creation groans and travails in pain. Let the Christian now look up and lift up his head.
“Looking forward, we see beginning the reign of Christ, which will cleanse the earth of iniquity, establish righteousness, restore the obedient ones to health, happiness, and life, and fill the earth with a joyful people. Because Jesus loved righteousness and hated iniquity Jehovah honored him above all others. Every one of his body members now this side the vail who hates iniquity and loves righteousness must of necessity rejoice in the fact that the time has come for the greet change in the alia ir- of man. All of his faithful servants, then, will want to do something to further the interests of the King and his kingdom. Those having tin's condition of heart now are invited to enter into his joy and do enter into it.
WORK FOR ALL
15ln many of the cla-sis a dhtinci on has been made between workers and non-workers. This should no longer be so. That distinction should now be done away with by every one of the consecrated becoming an active worker to the extent of his ability. It is the duty laid upon every elder of every class to feed the flock of God and to help each member of that flock to become active as a representative of the King’s interests. Let every elder, then, take the lead and invite others to follow in this activity. Let every service director so organize and arrange the work of the class that every one in the class can have some part in the service. Let every one of the class who can do so go out with the books and litciatvre and get these into the hands of the people, thus making known the message of the kingdom.
16If you find that you can go only one hour per day, or even less, go and work during that time. If you cannot go out at all from your home, then watch for an opportunity to speak to some one who may call at your door. If there is nothing else that you can do, then pray earnestly to the Lord for his blessing upon those who are privileged to be more active in the service, thereby showing that you are doing what you can to further the interests of his kingdom.
1TAs often as there is a meeting, be sure to meet with the brethren, and by your presence and kind words encourage those who are more active in the service, that you may prove your loyalty to the Lord. Do joyfully whatsoever your hands find to do.
“The Lord is judging each one according to the purity and devotion of his heart. Evidently the Lord is permitting us to see the clearer application of this parable and the one concerning the pounds, in order that we may hasten to demonstrate to him our loyalty and devotion by more faithfully looking after the interests of his kingdom. If upon self-examination, you find that you have not done much, do not become discouraged, but seize the opportunity now and do what is at hand, and do it with a joyful heart and thus enter into the joy of the Lord.
MONTHLY SERVICE DAY
“That there may be unity of action of the Lord’s servants everywhere, 'Tuesday, May 1,1923, is designated as a general service day. Likewise the first Tuc-day of each and every month thereafter for at least seven successive months shall be a service day. On each of these service days every member of every class should have some part in the work. Let each one ask the service director for something to do; and then let the service director assign each one some part in the work. Let all who can do so go out and sell the books, if only for a brief space of time during each day.
z0If you are one that has never engaged in selling books, and you feel timid about starting, then go out one or two days with a brother or a sidw who ha< been and is successful in the, selling of the boo’w. Watch the method r. ;ed. Them try it w If alone. It b the dutv and privilege of every one to aid his brother or sister to get started in the work; and every one who loves his brother will be glad to do so; so do not hesitate to a«k some one to aid you in starting.
21For the encouragement of others we take this occasion to say that many of the brethren who labor during the week at Bethel take Saturday afternoon (which is given to all for a rest time) to go out and sell the books. Some of these sell as many as three full sets (2-1 volumes) on a Saturday afternoon. Almost every one v.ho labors at some worldly occupation is given Saturday afternoon off. Can you not take that Saturday afternoon to prove your loyalty to the Lord, if you have no other time to give? Remember, the kingdom is here.
22Thosc who cannot leave home to work (because of circumstances over which they have no control) should watch for opportunities to speak to those who call at the home. If you can do nothing else, then pray earnestly for the work. Every one in the class should feel that he or she has a personal int-west in the work; therefore personally looking after the King’s interests. Remember that they also serve who only stand and wait, if that is all they can do, praying while they wait. Remember that this is a tremendous campaign, advertising the King and his kingdom. Let all the elders, deacons, brothers and sisters—every member of the class —be known as a worker actually engaged in looking after the King’s interests.
JOINT MEETING
230n Wednesday, May 2, and on the first Wednesday in each of the seven months following, let all the classes everywhere have a joint prayer-meeting (no other service meeting to be held that week). By joint prayermeeting is meant that where there is a number of small prayer-meetings these should be adjourned and all the friends meet together at one central point. This meeting should be attended by every one of the class. Instead of giving one hour, the usual time for prayermeeting, let this meeting (because of its importance) co\er an hour and thirty minutes. The first half of the meeting should be devoted to considering the weekly prc\er-iiiectmg text and giving testimonies along that line; and the other half of the meeting should be devoted to testimonies relating to the service work and encouraging the workers.
-^Bering the serueo part of the meeting the director should gi\e a repoit of the previous month’s work, including the general dri\c or service day held the day preceding this meeting. Lot the service director furnish this report in duplicate, filing one copy with the secretary of the class, and sending the other copy to the office at Brooklyn. This report will stimulate the workers and increase their enthusiasm concerning the King and his kingdom.
25We believe that this unity of action 'will draw the friends closer fogc.aer everyhere and will help them to more fully appreciate tie wonderful privilege now enjoyed by’ them of announcing the kingdom, and will help all the consecrated to enter more fully into the present joy of the Lord.
2CIn unity and in the spirit of the Lord there is strength. Let each one of the consecrated realize that he or she is obligated to look out well for the interests of the kingdom, which means the interests of each one who is a prospective member of that kingdom. It is the duty of each one, then, to encourage and help his brother to become more active in the service.
27llemcmber the enthusiasm you used to manifest in a presidential election for a worldly' ruler. Now as a Christian and as an ambassador of the Lord you enjoy the great privilege of announcing the King of kings and Lord of lords. Why not be awake to that privilege and be enthusiastic and energetic? Never before was such a privilege granted to creatures on earth.
28Let each one of the class read the “Bulletins”; and if you have not one, ask the service director to provide you with one. Get the spirit of the hour, the spirit of the kingdom I
29After a careful consideration of the matter, and asking the Lord’s direction, we have concluded that the sale of the sets of seven volumes of Studies in the Scriptures and The Harp of God, namely, eight books, shall be limited for the present to the regular colporteurs; and the class workers everywhere will be re<:nesi<d to devote their energies to the sale of the H.JIP Study Course. This will enable the classes to concentrate their efforts on follow-up meetings and the organization of ila-ses; and after this is done, later the territory may be gone over with the Studies in the Scriptures.
30A complete union of the pilgrims and the colporteurs, ciders and deacons, brothers and sisters, in actively and enthu-iastically looking after the interests of the King will have a great effect for good and bring much joy to the heart of each one engaged.
3;Remember, then, that beginning with the first Tuesday in May, and on the first Tuesday' of each and every nv ,ith thereafter for seven successive months at least, there will be a ‘general service day, VAill you do your part, then, on these days, and each end every fiber day, to advertise the King and his kingdom ? May your hearts be filled with joy as you do so.
QUESTIONS FOR BEREAN STUDY
What is it the Lord delivers to his people, and what are these called? III. 5.
What constitutes the “joy of the Lord?” When will it come? 11 2-4, What is The basis for the Lord’s rewards, and when and how do they come’3 V 6, 7.
Our appro* iation of the Lord is manifested along what lines? fl 8-12.
The fruits of Satan’s domination of the race is manifested in what inanner’3 fl 13
Show iho results of the I.crd’s kingdom in contrast. V 14.
What i*' the reasonable and br<>(her!\ way of dissolving the “non-vorker” class? r 15
Devotion Io the Lord is manifested in what way? fl 16-18.
Vonthlv Service suggested, and encouragement in starting, fl lb-21.
Ho\. is it possible for every one to be known as a “worker?” fl 22.
Col.iboring and unilying energies in the interest of the kingdom, fl 23-26
Working up enthusiasm brings joy in service, and let each see to it that he is not beguiled by any influence in losing this joy. fl 27-31,
PRAYER-MEETING TEXT COMMENTS
TEXT FOR APRIL 25
"The spirit of God dwelleth in you.”—1 Corinthians 3:16.
IN this text St. Paul addresses himself to the church, to the effect that each member of the body of Christ is the dwelling place of the holy spirit of God. The organism of the new creature is the body of flesh. The natural tendency of the flesh is earthly; and the mind that is governed by such tendency searches out and meditates upon facts and things pertaining to the gratification of fleshly tendencies. Those who feed upon the milk of simpler things of the Word of God are designated “babes in Christ,” and are more or less carnally minded; but it is to be expected that when such have grown in the knowledge of the divine arrangement the mind will follow the course of spiritual things, meditating upon things pertaining to the new creation.
The Apostle’s argument in this text is, that as new creatures we must not be carnally minded, because in the new creature the holy spirit dwells; hence that we should cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the mind, that we might be more and more made into the likeness of our Lord and Head. Following this instruction, it is to bo seen that we should keep the body clean and in as healthy condition as possible, and that the clothing wherev ith it is clothed should be always neat and clean, b'1 it ever so common. Such things influence the mind toward cleanliness. An untidy, unclean thing has a tendency to lead the mind in the wrong direction.
Unselfish things, high and pure things, lead the mind in the right directs i. iddice, hatred, ill-will, faultfinding, sensuality, selfishness, corrupt the mind; and if the mind is permitted to meditate and study upon such thing-, the tendency is to overthrow the will power to do right. On the coidiary, when the mind is filled with good things the will of God is more clearly seen, thus enabling us to follow God’s holy will.
The importance of proper thoughts was emphasized by St. haul when he said: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever tilings are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of gocL report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on llwse things.” (Philippians 4:8) The new creature, then fore, grows by concentrating his mind upon spiritual things, that is to say, by studying and meditating upon that which relates to God’s character and to his plans and purposes for the deliverance of humanity into the realm of life and happiness. Thus using the mind, we ascertain what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God concerning us and our course as Christians; and as we follow his will, the transformation progresses from one degree of glory to another, by the spirit of the Lord.
TEXT FOR MAY 2
"By one spirit are we all baptized into one body.”— 1 Corinthians 12:13.
THE body of Christ is made up of many members.
As soon as one is begotten of the holy spirit he is set or placed in the body of Christ by Jehovah, according to God’s own pleasure. (1 Corinthians 13:18) Each member of the body, then, has his separate functions to perform. This does not moan, however, that one member of the body is more important in its structure than others, and that some members may be ignored, as though there were no need for such in the body.
By one spirit, the holy spirit of God. each member is immersed into the body of Christ: and from Unit moment forward it becomes his priiilego, yea his duty, to look well to his own spiritual interests and also to look out for the interests of other members of the body. There mint be a real family or reciprocal love between the members of the bodv ; and such love will, and does, exist in the heart of each one who appreciates the fact that he is a member of the body of Christ. This love draws them together and holds them together.
Futhermore, there must be an unselfish love of each member for every other member, which leads each to do good to his broiher as opportunity offers. Thereby is the spirit of the Lord made manifest. ’Wherever the spirit of oneness exists amongst Christians and each one manifests the proper spidt toward the other, a division in the. class is an impm-smility. As there is no division in the body of Christ, even so all who are diligently putting aside selfishness and being transformed into the likeness of our Lord will desire to hold together and will hold together. Appreciating the proper relationship existing between the members of the body leads each one thus appreciating it to be loyal to every other member of the body. By one spirit, the spirit of love, each one is placed in the body; and all are held together, growing into the likeness of the Head.
QUESTION AND ANSWER
Question: Did the order go forth eight months ago to the Pilgrims to cease talking about 1925 ? Have we more reason, or as much, to believe the kingdom will be estab ■ lished in 1925 than Noah had to believe that there would be a flood?
Answer: It is surprising how reports get abroad. There was never at any time any intimation to the Pilgrim brethren that they should cease talking about 1925. Anyone who has made the statement that such an instruction was sent out has made it without any authority or excuse or cause.
Our thought is, that 1925 is definitely settled by the Scriptures, marking the end of the typical jubilees.
Just exactly what will happen at that time no one can tell to a certainty; but we expect such a climax in the affairs of the world that the people will begin to realize the presence of the Lord and his kingdom power. He is already present, as we know, and lias taken unto himself his power and begun his reign. He has come to his temple. He is dashing to pieces the nations. Every Christian ought to be content, then, to do w'ith his might what his hands find to do, without stopping to quibble about what is going to happen on a certain date.
As to Noah, the Christian now has much more upon which to base his faith than Noah had (so far as the Scriptures reveal) upon which to base his faith in a coming deluge.
TOSEPH THE PRESERVER OF HIS PEOPLE
----Atbil 15——Genesis 30: 22-24 ; 37: 2; 50: 26----
JOSEPH PUT INTO PRISON--JOSEPH’S EXPERIENCES RIPEN CHARACTER--COD’S CABE OVEB HIS OWN.
“Honor thy father and thy mother; that thy days may belong upon the land which Jehovah thy God giveth thee.”
—Exodus 20:12.
THE story of Joseph is the best known of all Bible narratives. All the world loves it, and the reason is not far to seek. It is because the story is so human, so dramatic in incident, so full of pathos and, withal, so pointed in example of malice rightly punished and virtue rewarded. But to the Bible student it is a special treasure; for in his suffering, his patience in suffering, in his fidelity to God, and in his humiliation and final exaltation, Joseph is so clearly a type of Christ; and every follower of Christ sees in him an example set for him to follow. It is in such a way that God wraps up truth for his people’s instruction now. and for the human family in their time of restoration. The amount of notice given in Scripture to any incident or person is, generally speaking, the measure of the importance Which Cod’s piople are intended to place therein. Much is said of Joseph; therefore there is much to learn.
^Joseph was the elder of Rachel’s sons, and the beloved son of his father. Owing to the unusual circumstances of Jacob's marriage and to the fact that for some years Rachel had no children, her son when born could not hold the birihi ight. It had fallen to Reuben, the eldest son of Leah. Joseph was an unusual boy, evidently very faithful to his father, even when at the cost of being misunderstood. (Genesis 37: 2) When a youth he had two singular dreams which he related to his father and his brothers. lie dreamed that in the harvest field his brothers’ sheaves bowed down to his; and that the sun, moon, and eleven stars made obeisance to him. His father kept these things in his heart; but Joseph’s brothers, who already hated him because of their father’s favoritism towards him, now envied and hated him all the more. These dreams were surely given of God: they could not have arisen out of an ambitious imagination; for the boy had none of that.
sJoseph’s bitter experiences began early. But they were Sharpened to the point of anguish when he was yet only seventeen years of age. Everyone knows the story of his brethien’s inhuman treatment when he was sent by his father to enquire about their welfare and the welfare of the flocks; and of their treachery7 towards him and their father. How earnestly he pleaded with them when they sold him to the Midianites is not stated in the narrative; but his anguish of soul made an impression never to be forgotten. More than twenty years after in Egypt it came vividly to memory.—Genesis 42; 21.
4Sold to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh’s officers, Joseph’s value was soon apparent. He was placed in trust of Potiphar’s household, a very responsible position for so young a man and a slave; and God blessed the house of Potiphar for his sake. When grown into manhood, he was handsome and well favored ; and there came the temptation from Potiphar’s wife, which he resisted on the higli ground that to yield would be sin against God. Foiled passion turned to hate; and the woman made, with a good show of supporting evidence, the terribly unjust accusation -which caused Potiphar to put Joseph into prison. But God was with him there; and the governor, soon seeing his -worth, gave the care of the prison into his hands.—Genesis 39: 21-23.
^Apparently by a chance happening, but exactly in the order of God’s providence, Joseph was liberated after at least two years in prison. He had foretold the restoration to office of Pharaoh’s butler, one of his fellow prisoners under his care; and he had hoped that when released the butler would make some representations to Pharaoh about his unjust imprisonment. But the butler forgot him. Sometime later God caused Pharaoh to dream strange dreams, which none of his wise men could interpret. Then the butler remembered Joseph; and he was sent for, and, blessed of God, he interpreted the dream. He showed that a crisis was at hand, and Pharaoh determined that Joseph was the man required for the unusual situation; for evidently he had ability, and God was with him. Joseph was raised by Pharaoh to the next highest place of power and with such authority that without his permission no one in Egypt lifted a hand, or moved a foot—the first recorded instance of emergency legislation. We are apt to feel resentful towards the butler for the neglect which probably7 meant the continuance of Josiph’s imprisonment. But there are no second causes with God. God knew when he would want Joseph >o be presented to Pharaoh, and Joseph in the prison was where he could be found immediately he was required. Had Joseph been released when the chance seemed coming, he might have been out of the way just when Pharaoh required him. Experience shows that God sometimes keeps his beloved servants in restraining circumstances that they may7 be ready7 at hand when required for some service for him. Let such rest in his love.
^Joseph now became caretaker for Pharaoh: the welfare of the realm was in his hands. These were wide interests; but he immediately disclosed the qualities of a state.-man. At once he began to prepare for the storage of the surplus corn which the seven plenteous years would yield. Storehouses throughout the land of Egypt were specially built. In accordance with Pharaoh’s drcam the famine came on in the eighth year. It extended not only7 over Egypt, but to the neighboring countries; and Jacob and his family in the south of Palestine suffered by it. Hearing that there was coni in Egypt, Jacob sent all his sons except Benjamin to buy supplies; and this ultimately led to the reunion of Jacob and his beloved son. The record of the incidents which led up to that union, especially Judah’s pleading and Joseph’s dramatic revelation, are amongst the great treasures of human writing. In his conduct toward his brethren Joseph revealed himself as particularly tender-hearted and emotional; and if for a time he appeared hard to them, ii ii .is because he wanted to discover whether or not they had changed. It is clear that in suggesting they were spies he touched the sore spot; lor, not realizing that he understood them, they began reminding each other of their brother’s pleading and anguish when they sold him. He found that they had changed very considerably, and had now a tenderer regard for their father than when they so cruelly lied to him and deprived him of his dear son. And after they had returned bringing Benjamin with them, and, by his stratagem, he had tested them about Benjamin to see whether or not they would repudiate him, he had no hesitancy in making himself known to them and in freely forgiving them for the terrible wrong they had done him.
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