The Watchtower, December 1, 1926
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Vol. XLVIII
Semt-Montht.t
No. 23
Anno Mundi Dec.moer I. 1926
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— ROCK OF ACES.;i§ I Other foun'datcpn can ■ j - no man lay-?; i AIR AN SO Mi'FOft'A L
CONTENTS
The New York Convention
Satan’s Coming
“Against the People”
Service Day and Sunday ....
The Pittsburgh Convention
Annual Meeting and Election
Shareholder’s Resolution
The Christian’s Use or the Bible
Hears the Truth Over WBBR (Letter)
Prayer in the Christian Life ..............._...365
Some Interesting Letters ....
Los Angeles Convention
Bibles and Year Book
“I trill stand upon my watch and will set my foot upon the Tower, and wilt watch to see what He will say unto me, and what answer I shall make to them that oppose me”—Habakkuk 2; 1,
THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS journal Is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or "Seminary Extension”, now being presented in all parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower Bible & 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., Terbi Dei Minister (V. D. M.), which translated into English is Minister of Go<l’s Word. Our treatment of the International Sunday School Lessons is specially for the older Bible Students and teachers. By some this feature is considered indispensable.
This journal stands firmly for the defense of the only true foundation of the Christian’s hope now being so generally repudiated .—redemption through the precious blood of “the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom (a corresponding price, a substitute] for all”. (1 Peter 1:19; 1 Timothy 2: 6) Building up on tills sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: 11-J5; 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. . Jias 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 bath spoken—according to the divine wisdom granted unto us to understand his utterances. Its attitude is not dogmatic, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our readers to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made to facilitate such testing.
TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH
That the church is "the temple of the living God", peculiarly “his workmanship”; that its construction has been in progress throughout the gospel age—ever since Christ became the world’s Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God’s blessing shall come “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:15, IT; 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 th* last of these “living stones”, “elect and precious,” shall have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the first resurrection; and the temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.—Revelation 15 : 5-8.
That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies In the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man,” “a ransom for all,” and will be “the true light which Sghteth every man that cometh into the world", “in due time”.— Hebrews 2:9; John 1: 9 ; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
That the hope of the church is that she may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be “partakers of the divine nature*,' and share his glory as his joint-heir.—1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Romans 8:17; 2 Peter 1:4.
That the present mission of the church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service; to develop in herself every trace; to be God’s witness to the world ; and to prepare to be kings and priests in the next age.—Ephesians 4:12; Matthew 24:
4; Revelation 1: 6; 20:6. .
That the hope for the world lies to the blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to ail by Christ’s Millennial kingdom, the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified church, when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3:19-23; Isaiah 35.
PUBUSHC.D SV
WATCH TOWER. BIBLE &■ TRACT SOCIETY 18 CONCORD STREET n n BROOKLYN, NX, USA FOREIGN OFFICES: British: 34 Craven Terrace, Lancaster Gate, London W. 2; Canadian: 38-40 Irwin Avenue, Toronto, Ontario; Australasian.' 495 Collins St., Melbourne, Australia; South African: B Leiie St., Cape Town, South Africa.
Please Addbess the Society in Eveby Case
YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION PRICE : United States, $1.00 ; Canada and Miscellaneous Foreign, $1.50 ; Great Bbitain, Australasia, A1vd South Africa, 7s. American remittances should be made by Express or Postal Money Orders, or by Bank Draft. Canadian, British, South African, and Australasian remittances should be made to branch offices only. Remittances from scattered foreign territory may be made to the Brooklyn office, but by International Postal Money Orders only, (Foreign translations of this Journal appear in several languages.)
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE : This journal is published under the supervis ion of an editorial committee, at'least three of whom have read end approved as truth each and every article appearing in these columns. The names of the editorial committee are: J. F. Rutherford, W. E. Van Ambubgh, J. Hemery, R. H. Babbeb, E. J. Coward.
TERMS TO THE LORD’S POOR: All Bible Students who, by reason of old age or other infirmity or adversity, are unable to pay for this journal, will be supplied free if they send a postal card each Slay stating their case and requesting such provision. We are not only willing, but anxious, that all such be on our list continually and in touch with the Berean studies.
Notice to Subscribers: We do not, as a rule, send a card of acknowledgment for a renewal or for a new subscription. A renewal blank (carrying notice of expiration) will to sent with the journal one month before the subscription expires. Change fl address, then reguested, may be expected to appear on address label within one month. ^nieredasSeeondClass Matter at Brooklyn, N. y. Postoffice. Act of March 3rd. 1879.
LOS ANGELES CONVENTION
A convention of Bible Students will be held at Los Angeles, December 30th to January 2nd. This will be the only convention held on the Pacific Coast during the winter that Will serve generally the Pacific Coast Several pilgrim brethren will be there, including Pilgrim Brother A. H. Macmillan; and it is a probability that Brother Rutherford will attend the convention. For further information address F, P, Sherman, 200 Trinity Auditorium, Los Angeles, Calif.
BIBLES
The Bible because of its binding has always been associated with the ecclesiastics. Therefore the Bible has become a reproach in the eyes of many people. There seems no good reason why the Bible should not be bound as other books are bound. It is the Word of God, and the people should be induced to love IL The Society has arranged to furnish Bibles in plain binding at moderate prices. Below we give a list:
Pl20 4} x7J, French Morocco-----------$4.00
P125 4J x 7|, with concordance 435
P1304J x7J, Full Leather 5.65
P135 4J x 7J, with concordance 5.80
K60 4} x 61, French Morocco 3.40
K65 4J x 61, with concordance 3.75
K70 4Jx6i, Full Leather 4.85
K75 4| x 61, with concordance 5.20
YEAR BOOK
The annual report this year will be too voluminous to ba published in the Watch To web.
The 1927 year text will be, “O Lord, how manifold are thy works 1”
Many brethren have called attention to the fact that our “Manna” texts have been in use now for upwards of twenty years and that the consideration daily of some other texts of the Scriptures might prove profitable.
Therefore the Society is publishing a book entitled Tub I. B. S. A. Yeab Book.
It will contain a brief history of the Society and its purpose ; the annual report of the Society’s work for 1926; the year text for 1927; the weekly prayer-meeting texts appropriate thereto together with comments; a text for each day, closely related to the year text with appropriate comments in harmony with present truth.
The book will contain more than three hundred pages, handsomely bound in royal purple, gold stamped and embossed. It will sell for 50tf a volume. It will be ready for the holidays. You may send your orders now.
AND HEPALD OF CHRISTS PRESENCE
Vol. XLVIII Decembeb 1, 1928 No. 23
NEW YORK CONVENTION
"As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. We have thought of thy lovingkindness, 0 God, in the midst of thy temple.” — Psalm Jt8:8, 9.
TO COMPARE one convention of the Lord’s people with another does not enable one to fully appreciate the blessings that come from conventions. A Christian not only must attend a convention but must fellowship with others of like spirit, and have some part therein, to really appreciate it. Even then human words are inadequate to properly and fully express one’s appreciation. It can be confidently asserted that no convention of God’s children assembled in the harvest time has been more clearly marked by an expression of the spirit of the Lord than that convention held in New York City October 14-18 inclusive. It will not be forgotten by those who attended and had a part therein.
Of course, like in other gatherings, there were a few who had come for curiosity’s sake, or to look for something about which to gossip. But they were very few and hard to find. Such had no fellowship or joy in the convention, and it was noticed that these very few were left alone. The true saints followed the admonition of the Apostle Paul, who said: “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” (Romans 16:17,18) Those devoted to the Lord were too busy to listen to anything except that which would bring glory to the King and our heavenly Father’s name. They were happy with each other and anxious to do what they could.
The saints are acquiring a deeper appreciation of God’s organization. They recognize that Jehovah’s organization is Zion, of which Christ is the Head, and that all the members of that organization who are on the earth, if they would continue therein, must be in complete harmony with and devoted to the Head, Christ Jesus, and to the heavenly Father. In order to be in harmony one must joyfully obey the commandments of the Lord.
For one to obey the commandments of God at this time means that such an one must joyfully and earnestly engage in the service of the Lord as opportunity is offered. No one can be counted as a part of the “servant class” (Isaiah 49:3; 42:1) unless such an one gladly and earnestly engages in the service of the Lord. These dear saints, having an ever-increasing vision of the outworking of the divine plan, find expression in the words of the Psalmist: “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness.” (Psalm 48:1) These recognize the greatness of Jehovah, and that the “city” here mentioned is a symbol of his organization, and that out of his organization (Zion) shall the praises of Jehovah now be sounded.
The saints not only see but more fully appreciate that the “man child”, which is the kingdom or holy government, is born; that the Devil has been expelled from heaven; that the conflict has been transferred to earth; that now is the day of God’s vengeance, and that it is the solemn and joyful duty of the saints to give testimony concerning the same. They see that the Lord is in his temple and that those whom he finds having on the wedding garments he brings under the robe of righteousness, and gives to them the garments of salvation which Jehovah has furnished, and now commands them to go into the gates of the kingdom; to gather out the stumbling stones that lie in the way of others; proclaim liberty to the prisoners who are in the prison houses of Satan’s organization ; to point the people of good will to the highway of the Lord; and to lift up for the people the standard of the Lord that they may rally unto him.
Never before have the saints appreciated these things so much as now, and no earthly power can prevent them from giving the witness; and they will continue to give the witness until the Lord says it is done. Such was and is the zeal of the dear ones who came to the New York convention to be a blessing, to receive a blessing, and to glorify the name of Jehovah God. About 2500 of the consecrated attended. They began to arrive Wednesday evening the thirteenth, and they wore the real smile that does not come off.
Brother R. J. Martin was the chairman of the convention and Brother E. J. Coward was assistant to the chairman. The convention was held in Mecca Temple, a beautifully appointed assembly hall situated in Manhat-
tan; but all the Sunday meetings were held in the New-Madison Square Garden, which is America’s greatest and best appointed auditorium.
At ten o’clock Thursday morning the convention opened with a praise and testimony meeting which afforded an opportunity for the dear friends to give expression to their pent-up feelings of joy. Then followed a discourse by Brother C. A. Wise, which greatly comforted and encouraged the brethren. Another testimony service was had at 2 p. m., followed by a discourse by Brother George S. Kendall. With his usual fire and earnestness Brother Kendall stirred up the friends to greater heights of joy. Brother E. J. Coward next gave a discourse, pointing out the privileges of the brethren to daily present themselves unto the Lord to be wholly used in his service and to his praise. By seven o’clock the brethren were fully ready for another testimony meeting, in which they engaged with real earnestness. Then came Brother A. H. Macmillan, and with his enthusiasm and firing zeal he emphasized the privileges that the people of God now enjoy in knowing of his plan and serving him. Thus ended the first day; and the brethren, contented and happy, retired to their resting places and arose next morning fully refreshed and ready for another blessed day.
Friday was "the day before”—it was the day of preparation for the army to move out into action. The assembly opened at ten o’clock in the morning with a testimony meeting, which gave the friends opportunity to tell each other of their joy in the Lord. Brother T. J. Sullivan then gave a discourse, pointing out the privileges of the brethren to serve the Lord and emphasizing the fact that on the morrow they would have the opportunity to go forth and personally give a witness to the people in the great metropolis of America.
SATAN’S COMING
The brethren are now beginning to see the hideousness of the Devil’s organization. They are also seeing more clearly the Lord’s organization, because they are in the temple condition. When the Devil attempts to thwart the Lord’s purposes the Lord quickly enables his people to see the movement, and furnishes them an opportunity to have something to do as his instruments.
The New Madison Square Garden had been taken for the public address to be delivered Sunday afternoon. An advertising agency was engaged to handle the newspaper publicity in behalf of the Society. Agents of these newspapers solicited advertisements, some of them with great earnestness, asking that they might be permitted to print full page announcements. Of course they did this for the money that they would receive for it. The newspapers seemingly all being anxious to take the advertisements, preparation was not made to do much advertising outside of the newspapers. The billboards were not engaged, nor the street cars, as heretofore on such occasions.
The various newspapers took the copy for the advertisements and agreed that publication thereof should bo given on days certain, which days were agreed upon. Among those papers so engaged were the New York Times, the New York Sun and the New York Herald. Each one of these papers, having the copy in possession with the understanding that it was to be published in a certain issue, held it for several days for this purpose. The New York Times was to appear Thursday. Just before going to press the representative of that paper notified the Society’s advertising agent that the advertisement would not be carried at all. No reason wu assigned. Then followed the New York Sun and the New TarV Herald with their refusal to publish.
Having held the copy for several days, with the understanding that it was to be published on the dates agreed upon, these newspapers doubtless reasoned that there would now be no other means of advertising the New Madison Square Garden meeting, and that if they refused to advertise it the Society would be left in a hole; and of course that would greatly please the DeviL Without a question of a doubt the policy of the big metropolitan papers, which are owned and controlled by big business, is to do everything possible to thwart the spreading of the message of the Lord’s kingdom; and they reasoned that one of the best ways to oppose it would be tp treat the Bible Students with silent contempt.
By way of explanation, attention is here called to the fact that the President of the Society delivered an address at Royal Albert Hall, London, on May 30th last; and that this address, together with a resolution passed by the London convention, was incorporated in a tract and widely distributed throughout the earth. On September 12th the London Sunday Express devoted two columns to a harsh and critical review of that resolution and the address in particular. The following is a quotation from that paper:
Under the guise of Bible exposition there has been let loose upon the world a flood of virulent anti-British abuse, which must be as offensive to the ordinary American as it is annoying to the British citizen. As long as the Judge and his friends kept themselves to their own country they could be ignored, but their new campaign in England demands some investigation. Within the past two or three days there has been inserted in six million letter boxes a copy of a leaflet called: “Wobld Powers Addressed, by Judge Rutherford, President of the International Bible Students Association.”
Here is the positive proof that the policy of the American papers that are controlled by British influence has been and is to ignore the Bible Students. As soon therefore as information was received that the New York Sun had refused to carry out its agreement to publish tha notice of the public meeting of the New Madison Square Garden, Brother Rutherford issued a statement over his own signature, which appears below. Friday afternoon Brother R. J. Martin, chairman, appeared before the convention and informed the brethren of the wrongful action taken by these papers, and read before the convention Brother Ruthrford’s statement, which is as follows, to wit:
AGAINST THE PEOPLE
Here Is the evidence that The New York Times and The Sun are against the people and wish to keep them from knowing the truth. These papers contracted with the International Bible Students Association press agency to carry advertisement of JUDGE RUTHERFORD’S NEW MADISON SQUARE GARDEN mass meeting Sunday afternoon, October 17th. One of those papers on bended knees begged for the business. At the last moment both papers repudiated their contracts and refused to publish the advertisements. Why? many are asking.
The reason seems apparent. They wish to keep the American people in the dark. It is generally understood that The New York Times is controlled by British capital. The Sun Is decidedly pro-British.
In May I delivered a speech at Royal Albert Hall, London, telling the people concerning the world powers and particularly the true status of the British Empire. The preachers and profiteers did not like it. The common people heard it gladly. Recently more than a million copies of that speech have been placed in the hands of the peoples of New York City. At the New Madison Square Garden Sunday afternoon I expect to tell Americans some great truths that they should know. The New York Times and The Sun are against the American people. Their interests are better served by keeping the people in ignorance of certain truths.
At 3 o’clock next Sunday afternoon at the New Madison Square Garden, 50th street and 8th Avenue, the peoples of New York City will hear a plain statement of the truth, and then judge for themselves whether or not the above-mentioned metropolitan dailies are justified in repudiating their agreements.
J. F. RUTHERFORD
Then Brother Martin made an announcement to the following effect: tfWe have started our own presses, and our boys will work them day and night until one million two hundred and fifty thousand copies of this statement are printed; and we are going to ask the brethren at this convention to go out and give them to the people.”
Being aware of Satan’s subtle manner of warfare, the truly consecrated of the Lord’s organization were not deceived but were ready for action.
These dear saints know that the time has come for the Lord to establish his kingdom, and that his kingdom is the city of the great God which shall ultimately bring blessings to the people. They know that this being the Lord’s time nothing can stop his work. Their hearts find expression in the words of his prophet: “As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever.” (Psalm 48:8) Therefore all the dear brethren responded quickly, and between the afternoon meeting and seven o’clock that same evening upwards of 300,000 copies of the statement had been put into the hands of the people on the streets. Some policemen interfered with some of the brethren, and some were arrested, but they were released and went joyfully on with the Lord’s work.
At 8 p. m. the conventioners returned to listen to a discourse by Brother Rutherford, on the subject: “The Laying of the Stone in Zion.” In substance Brother Rutherford said that The Stone in Zion is God’s anointed King; that this Stone was laid in miniature first and in completion later; that the laying in miniature took place at the time Jesus offered himself as King to Israel, as set forth in Matthew twenty-one; that the laying of the Stone in completion took place when the Lord offered himself as King in 1918, when he came to his temple; that on both occasions he was rejected by the professed people of God, who were not in truth and in fact fully devoted to the Lord.
The speaker then pointed out that those who now recognize Christ as King and have a proper appreciation thereof have resting upon them a peculiar obligation; that God has said to such: “Ye are my witnesses that I am God”; that the time has come for declaring to the people that the kingdom of heaven is here; that God has now set his King upon his throne; and that these things being true the Lord is now furnishing opportunities for all who really love him to obey his commandments in spreading the glad tidings to the people. Then he announced that the morrow would be Service Day, and that every one of the conventioners would be privileged to go out and place the books and literature in the hands of the people and thus inform them of the kingdom, also to hand them a copy of the statement concerning the public lecture on Sunday and invite them to the meeting. The convention was greatly enthused and eager to engage in the work.
The only place available for storing the stock of books and literature for the workers was a livery stable situated immediately across the street from the Mecca Temple. This seemed to be rather a fitting place to the Lord’s saints. They reasoned that if it pleased God to have his beloved Son born in a manger where the cattle had fed, surely it was a great favor for God’s people now to assemble in a livery stable, arm themselves with ammunition, and go forth to engage in the work of proclaiming the Lord’s kingdom. It was a happy throng that crowded into that stable that night and out on the sidewalk. Many of them, armed with a quantity of the statements entitled “Against the People”, sallied forth on the streets to put them into the hands of the people. Many of them worked upon the streets until midnight. Some were apprehended by officers of the law and some few were evilly spoken against, but the people were generally eager to take the notices and read them.
The distribution continued through Saturday and Sunday morning, until the great city of New York from the northern edge of the Bronx to the south end of Staten Island had been well covered with a million two hundred and fifty thousand copies of the statement. By this time the Lord’s saints were exceedingly happy that they had been able to prevent the Devil from keeping the people in the dark concerning the public witness. All praise was given to the Lord, and their hearts found expression in the words of the Psalmist: “According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness. Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, becaua* of thy judgments.”—Psalm 48:10,11-
SERVICE DAY
Saturday had been set aside for Service Day. Practically all who attended the convention, and who were able to go, went out on Saturday. They each carried with them a quantity of the statements above mentioned, together with books, etc. In the forenoon they canvassed especially for the Deliverance book. Each worker had received sealed instructions which were to be opened at one o’clock, and all were asked to start promptly at 1:30 p. m. in obedience to these sealed instructions. Each one had also received sealed packages of booklets, put up in combinations of five, with a special price thereon. It is recognized that New York City is the hardest place to interest people in the Lord’s work, but the results of this day were exceedingly gratifying. When the day’s results were totalled up in the evening the sales were, to wit: 3,783 Deliverance books, and 35,140 booklets.
SUNDAY
A praise and testimony meeting was had Sunday morning at nine o’clock at Madison Square Garden. At ten o’clock Brother W. F. Salter spoke, and at eleven Brother George S. Kendall spoke briefly, followed by a testimony meeting participated in by those who had had specially interesting experiences on Service Day. These discourses and testimonies were of much encouragement and help to all the brethren.
The public meeting was held at three o’clock in the afternoon, at the New Madison Square Garden. There was a musical program rendered by the “Watchtower Trio’' and assisted by Brother Franz, tenor, which preceded the public address. About twelve thousand people attended this meeting, and many of the friends were heard to remark: “It is an unusually intelligent audience.”
Shortly after three o’clock Brother Rutherford began his public address, and for one hour and thirty minutes there was the keenest interest shown by the vast audience. It was noted that the only ones who left the great hall were a few preachers, marked by their peculiar garb, and a few of the Bible Students who evidently felt that they must get outside. It is unfortunate that any of the consecrated should leave a public meeting, because it is as much their meeting as it is the speaker’s. The audience was unusually attentive, frequently manifesting their approval by prolonged applause, and on several occasions by shouting and crying out aloud their approval.
The speaker plainly stated the position of the metropolitan press as a part of the Devil’s organization and how it opposed the Lord’s kingdom and adopted the policy of keeping the people in the dark. He also pointed out specifically how the preachers and the politicians worked together as the blind instruments of Satan’s empire and especially how the clergy, posing as representatives of the Lord, are hypocrites and in truth and In fact are representatives of the Devil’s organization.
The public could see the proper application and vociferously manifested their approval. The speaker stated that the New York press were not carrying his public address he was then making because their policy is to ignore the truth, that they prefer to publish falsehoods rather than the truth. He then said:
The New York American Is the only great daily in the city of New York that has the moral courage to publish this address, and tomorrow morning it will carry a full report. I imagine you are asking: “How did you induce that paper to publish this address?” My answer is that! we bought the space and paid upwards of $1300 for it; and we did this for the benefit of the people, that they might hear the message. We do not expect the press to publish the truth for nothing, because its Interest Is on the opposite side. We are glad that the Lord provides the money which we can use to publish these truths for the benefit of the people. The press states that they do not publish a discourse of this kind because it is not news. I Insist that it Is not only news but good news; it is the good news which the Lord now will have the people know and which the angels prophesied of centuries ago, at the birth of our Lord.
Then the speaker said to the audience: “I want every one of you who believes that this is good news, and that the press should publish it for the benefit of the people, to indicate it by saying, Aye!” There was a tremendous roar of Ayes from approximately all of the twelve thousand people assembled there. Then the speaker concluded by saying: “Having heard the description of the Lord’s kingdom and the blessings it shall bring to mankind I desire to ask every one of this great audience who would like to see such a kingdom established, to stand up.” The whole audience rose and bowed their heads at the request of the speaker, while a brief prayer was offered.
As the audience dispersed the brethren stationed in various parts held forth the books for sale, and the net result was that approximately nine thousand volumes were sold to that audience. It is believed that this is the best record ever made of sale of books at a public meeting. The audience went away enthusiastic, and tho opinion is here volunteered that those people who heard on Sunday afternoon at the New Madison Square Garden will make themselves good advertising agents against the Devil’s press and for the Lord’s kingdom.
The Monday morning edition of the New York American carried a full report of the public discourse, according to copy furnished. The Golden Age will also carry a full report. The New York Sun and the Times, in a shame-faced manner, carried a few lines of misrepresentation of the facts. The Daily Graphic carried quotations exposing the clergy and their allies.
On Sunday night the convention assembled for a meeting at the New Madison Square Garden, which was addressed by Brother F. W. Franz. They were all happy and in a proper attitude to receive the splendid address which was given, and which was in corroboration of the laying of the Stone in Zion. It was helpful and uplifting to the brethren. On Monday morning Brother Barber delivered a discourse on baptism, which was followed by thirty symbolizing their consecration by water immersion. At two in the afternoon a testimony meeting was held, and at three o’clock Brother Victor Schmidt addressed the convention. His address was both strengthening and helpful.
At four o’clock on Monday Brother Rutherford addressed the convention on the subject: “The Stumbling Stone in Zion.” Briefly stated, his discourse was to the effect that Israel after the flesh stumbled over the Stone, God’s anointed King; that there were two divisions of the house of Israel then, one division in the north and the other in the south country; that only a remnant of Israel after the flesh accepted the Lord as the anointed One; that the complete fulfilment of the laying of the Stone in Zion took place in 1918; that then and there God’s anointed King became the measuring or test Stone by which all professed Christians must be measured (Zechariah 3:9); that then in harmony with the prophecy in Isaiah 8:14 nominal Israel, meaning the denominational systems, stumbled and fell; that was one of the houses of Israel; that many in present truth composing the other division of the house of Israel stumbled and fell—some of these because they reasoned wrongly and 'were ensnared in the head, others because they walked in the wrong way, opposed the Lord’s work, and were ensnared in the feet and walked back into the world.
The speaker emphasized that there is only a remnant and will be only a remnant of the professed ones in present truth who will stand, and that whether or not one is of the remnant depends upon his continued faithfulness even unto death; that this prophecy shows why a number in present truth have turned away since 1918, and have fallen and become opponents of the truth; that these make themselves judges of their brethren and are not willing to leave the judgment to the Lord; that their opposing the work of the Society is not merely opposing that which is visible but that they are opposing the Lord, because the Lord is carrying on his work in one certain way to give witness to the peoples of earth. This discourse has appeared fully in The Watch Tower, and for that reason is not here repeated in full.
On Monday evening there was a symposium in which Brothers Riemer, Van Amburgh, C. J. Woodworth and Macmillan addressed the convention. Each one of these addresses was splendid and brought much joy to the hearts of the friends. Then with a few appropriate remarks from Brother Rutherford the convention concluded, all standing and singing together, “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” and giving each other a chautauqua salute. Thus ended one of the happiest and most blessed assemblies of God’s people that has ever come together.
The brethren also had opportunity to visit the radio station WBBR, the Bethel Home, the factory, and the site where the new building is being erected. They were happy at the manifest evidence of the Lord’s direction of his work and gave glory to the Lord.
It was announced by Brother Rutherford at the conclusion of the convention that the bonds for the erection of the new building, heretofore mentioned in The Watch Tower, have been over-subscribed; that it is gratifying to know that by far the larger part of these have been subscribed by brethren of small means, who took bonds of $100 denomination; that a few brethren having large amounts of money took none, probably because they thought their interest of six or seven percent received from other investments would be better than five percent invested in a building used for the Lord’s purposes; that it seems that it is pleasing to the Lord to carry on his work by the efforts of the feebler ones; that the bond issue was not a solicitation of money but an opportunity for the brethren to furnish the money for the building (which is a good investment and upon which they receive interest) rather than for the Society to borrow it from worldly sources; that there had been a general and liberal response by the brethren in this effort ; and that while all the money belongs to the Lord and he can get all he wants, yet the friends are more and more appreciating the fact that it is a wonderful privilege to use what little they have in his service. The convention expressed its delight that the bonds have been over-subscribed and that the larger part thereof have been taken in small denominations.
To be in the service of the Lord is a blessed and happy privilege, and the brethren who are really consecrated to the Lord are more and more appreciating the fact that they are greatly favored to have any opportunity to tell others about the kingdom. The purpose of building the factory and increasing the machinery is to enable the Lord’s people to get into the hands of the public a greater quantity of literature advertising the King and the kingdom. That the Lord’s hand is in this matter is clearly shown by his manifest approval. Without doubt the work will go grandly on until it is finished, whether there be few or many engaged in it; and everyone of the truly consecrated can now praise the Lord that he permits us to be his witnesses.
PRESSING TO
“Light hath arisen; we walk in its brightness.
Joy hath descended; its fulness has come.
The word hath been spoken; we hear it, we take it.
Angels are singing. Shall we only be dumb ?
THE BATTLE
“Lead on, our Captain! We follow, we follow;
Life is no slumber; our battle no dream.
Lift up thy banner; we rally around it;
Wave high thy sword; we press on in its gleam.'*
PITTSBURGH CONVENTION
A CONVENTION of Bible Students at Pittsburgh is always of peculiar interest because it was there that the Lord was pleased to begin the harvest work of his second presence. October 29, 30, 31 and November 1 were the dates this year. The sessions of the convention were held in Memorial Hall, a beautiful place, -with a capacity of about 2500, and affording everything desirable’ for a convention. Brother A. H. Macmillan was the chairman.
The convention opened Friday morning at ten o’clock with a testimony meeting. This was followed by a discourse delivered by Brother C. A. Wise. Another testimony meeting was held at 2:00 p. m. Then Brother G. R. Pollock addressed the convention. Another testimony meeting was held at seven. Brother Kendall was on the program; but he being unable to attend, Brother Pollock supplied his place. It was a happy day. On Saturday a praise service was had at ten o’clock. At 10: 30 Brother Rutherford arrived and delivered a discourse to the convention on “The Laying of The Stone in Zion” and the test that followed.
Saturday afternoon was Service Day. The friends were enthusiastic about participating in the service and practically all attending the convention went out into the work. The sales for the afternoon aggregated about 5300 volumes. This is a splendid showing, seeing that canvassing parties have been going over Pittsburgh year after year. It further proves that there is always some one who has not previously heard the message who desires to know something about it. At 8: 00 p. m. Brother A. H. Macmillan addressed the convention. Sunday morning the convention was addressed by Brother Van Amburgh.
At 1:30 p. m. Sunday Brother Rutherford delivered a lecture over the radio. A loud speaker was installed at the convention hall and the lecture was heard with the same distinctness and clearness as if the speaker had been personally present. In fact some remarked that it was even clearer. The radio is a marvelous invention, and without doubt was brought about by the Lord for the benefit of those who are now trying to give his witness. While it is true that others use the radio, the real purpose of the invention is to let the world know in this way that Jehovah is God and that Christ is King. At three in the afternoon Brother A. H. Macmillan again addressed the convention and Brother Pollock at four o’clock. All the addresses of the convention were upbuilding and helpful, and the friends delighted therein.
Special advertisement had been made for the public meeting for Sunday evening. This was for the Jews. Brother Rutherford was advertised to speak on the subject, “PALESTINE FOR THE JEW—WHY?” Many prominent Jews of the city had participated in advertising the meeting, and the Jewish paper had carried editorials for several days. The principal seats in the hall were reserved for the Jews. A Jewish orchestra of very exceptionally fine musicians furnished the instrumental music preceding the lecture. Brother Macmillan appeared on the platform and gave an introduction concerning the Jewish question, and announced the book Comfort for the Jews. The orchestra then played another selection, at the conclusion of which the speaker of the evening appeared. He was enthusiastically received by the Jews. The hall was well filled, and the attention was remarkable.
A few left the hall during the lecture, but not one Jew left. Those who went out were Bible Students. It really seems too bad that those who claim to be consecrated to the Lord, when they invite strangers to come to a meeting will take good seats and then walk out. But it seems almost hopeless to call this to the attention of the friends. Some of them feel absolutely at liberty to walk in and out of a meeting as the whim takes hold upon them.
The Jewish audience hung upon every word and frequently manifested their approval and joy by enthusiastic applause. At the conclusion of the lecture a quartet sang a Jewish hymn. The audience was so impressed that some of the Jews in the audience joined in the hymn with real feeling. The Jews left the hall enthusiastically, some of them buying as many as four books each. Brother Macmillan appeared in the crowd as they were passing out and the Jews mistook him for the speaker and almost mobbed him, but he soon explained that he was the first speaker of the evening and they were just as glad to greet him. It is quite evident that the Jews who have faith in the Bible delight to see that the time has come for the fulfilment of the prophecies which foretold that they shall come again into God’s favor.
The convention concluded Monday afternoon following the annual meeting of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. Discourses were delivered by several of the brethren and at 8: 00 p. m. Brother Rutherford appeared on the platform and gave a brief talk of twenty minutes, at the conclusion of which the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again” was sung; and with a chautauqua salute the brethren bade each other goodbye and went to their respective homes.
Many telegrams were received from various parts of the world expressing confidence and encouragement and asking God’s blessing upon the convention and annual meeting. Amongst these were some from Europe, particularly from the London Bethel Family, and from other parts of the country. The New York church, having had a happy day during Saturday, sent the following telegram:
We greet you and those assembled in convention in the name of Jehovah and rejoice with you in the King’s service. Class in action had banner day. Sold seven thousand.
It was a happy convention, and many were the remarks heard to the effect that they had never seen such
a sweet spirit manifested and that not one word of criticism was heard against any person or any thing. Everybody seemed to be in full harmony. The brethren expressed thankfulness for the help received from The Watch Tower; and we were glad of this, because the only desire is to help the brethren. Withal, it was a blessed season of mingling together and of aiding each other to understand some of the precious things of God’s wonderful plan.
ANNUAL MEETING
(Copy of the Minutes)
Pursuant to notice duly given as provided by law and by the charter and by-laws of the Society the annual meeting of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society was held at Memorial Hall, Pittsburgh, at ten o’clock Monday, November 1st, 1926. The time for the regular annual meeting is October 31st, but this date being Sunday the meeting was held according to law on the day following.
The meeting was called to order by the President in the chair, who called upon Brother W. E. Spill to offer the opening prayer. Reading of the minutes of the previous meeting was omitted by common consent. The next order of business was the report by the President on the work of the Society during the fiscal year, which closed September 30th. This report is quite voluminous, covering some sixty pages of manuscript. The convention voted to have it read. The President thereupon read the report.
This report was enthusiastically received, and upon motion the members of the annual meeting voted their unqualified approval thereof. The Treasurer then made his report. The law does not require these reports to be made, nor does the charter; but they are made for the encouragement of the brethren. This was the statement made by the President of the meeting.
The next in order was the election of a Board of Directors of seven members, to serve for a period of three years. The Board, as constituted at that time, was, to wit: J. F. Rutherford, C. A. Wise, W. E. Van Amburgh, A. H. Macmillan, C. H. Anderson, H. H. Riemer, and J. A Baeuerlein. A motion was made that the corporation meeting proceed to re-elect the seven persons above named as the Board: Brother R. J. Martin was then also placed in nomination. Thereupon Brother C. H. Anderson arose and stated to the corporate members that he was so, situated that he could not give personal attention to the duties as a member of the Board of Directors, and therefore withdrew his name and asked the corporate body to vote for Brother Martin in his stead.
Thereupon a motion was made that the Secretary of the Society, by unanimous consent, cast the entire vote, present and voting, for the following named persons as and for the Board of Directors for the ensuing term of three years, to wit: J. F. Rutherford, C. A. Wise, W. E. Van Amburgh, A. H. Macmillan, R. J. Martin, H. H. Riemer and J. A. Baeuerlein. The Secretary then announced that there were present, in person and by proxy, 157,484 votes, all of which he cast by ballot for the persons above named as a Board of Directors. Thereupon the President declared that upon the advice of the voters and of the vote cast accordingly the above named seven persons were duly elected as members of the Board of Directors for the ensuing term of three years.
The next order of business was the election of officers. The name of Brother J. F. Rutherford was presented as President. There were no other names presented. Thereupon it was moved that by unanimous consent the Secretary be instructed to cast the entire vote of the meeting for Brother J. F. Rutherford to serve as President for a term of three years. Brother C. A. Wise was called to the chair and put the motion, which was unanimously adopted. Thereupon the Secretary cast the entire vote of, to wit, 157,484, for Brother J. F. Rutherford for the office of President of the Society for a period of three years.
Brother C. A. Wise was then nominated for Vice President. Brother A. H. Macmillan also was placed in nomination. Brother Macmillan withdrew his name, and thereupon the meeting unanimously elected Brother Wise as Vice President for the ensuing term of three years.
Brother W. E. Van Amburgh was nominated and by unanimous consent of the shareholders elected as Secretary and Treasurer for the period of three years. Brother H. H. Riemer was then nominated and unanimously elected as Assistant Secretary and Treasurer.
The President then called the order of unfinished business, and there being none next called for new business. Thereupon Brother L. L. Bulleit of Indianapolis announced to the Chairman that he had a resolution to present and that the resolution had to do with the officers of the Society. The President then announced, “In view of the statement of the brother as to the nature of his resolution I now ask Brother C. H. Anderson of Baltimore to take the chair and preside over the meeting during the consideration of the resolution.” Brother Bulleit was also invited to the platform, to read the resolution, and at the conclusion thereof he moved its adoption. Brother Spill of Pittsburgh, Brother Saunders of Pittsburgh, and a number of other brethren, enthusiastically seconded the resolution; whereupon it being put to a vote was unanimously adopted. The resolution is as follows, to wit:
SHAREHOLDERS’ RESOLUTION
As consecrated followers of Christ, assembled in convention at Pittsburgh, Pa., and at the annual meeting of th* Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, we send love and greetings to our brethren throughout the earth.
We are aware of the fact that all who are earnestly keeping the commandments of God as his witnesses on earth are the targets of the Devil and his emissaries. The venom of such attacks is manifest more particularly against those In the front ranks of the battle for the truth.
The enemy has caused to be circulated against officers of the Society, and especially against the President of the Society, false and wicked accusations which have a tendency to disturb some of our brethren. We regret to note that these malicious accusations have been carried about by some who have professed to be in present truth but who no more walk with us. We would take no notice of these vicious attacks except for the purpose of encouraging our brethren who are not in a position to know the facts as well as we know them.
For ten years Brother J. F. Rutherford has zealously and faithfully served as President of the Society. His election has been unanimous each time during that period, and at this meeting he again has been unanimously elected.
The blessing of the Lord attending his efforts is the best evidence of the Lord’s approval upon him. Tills convention and annual meeting now goes on record expressing our full faith and confidence in Brother Rutherford and in those who are associated with him at headquarters, and in his managers in the various countries who are acting under his appointment. We call upon our brethren everywhere to stand together fighting for the gospel of the kingdom and thereby giving their unqualified and loyal support to Brother Rutherford and the brethren associated with him in conducting this work.
We request that a copy of this resolution be presented to Brother Rutherford, and a copy be sent to the local manager of each and every country, and that it be published in The Watch Tower, in the English and the foreign editions.
Under the leadership of our Lord we are marching to victory. Let us all march firmly together.
There being no further business to come before the shareholders’ meeting at this time the meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal as Secretary, this first day of November, A. D. 1926.
(Signed) W. E. Van Ambubgh, Secretary.
The annual report, as heretofore announced, being too voluminous to publish in The Watch Tower, will be published in the Year Book of the Society. This book will also contain a brief history of the Society and a text for each day of the year, and a special prayermeeting text and comment for each Wednesday during the year. This book will be handsomely bound in royal purple cloth and gold stamped. The price to all will ba fifty cents. Orders are being received now.
THE CHRISTIAN’S USE OF THE BIBLE
---January 16—Deuteronomy 6:4-9; 2 Timothy 3:14-17---
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”—Psalm 119:105.
THE true disciple of Jesus, while always interested in all things relating to the Bible, gives himself no concern in the matter of textual criticisms which are leveled against it by men learned in the world’s wisdom; nor in those more numerous and much more harmful higher criticisms which are made by the clergy who, though set apart by their respective organizations to expound the Bible, nevertheless spend time in criticism professedly to make it clearer but really to destroy the thought that it is the revelation of God to man.
2 To the disciple it is enough that Jesus accepted the writings of Moses, the Law, the historical records, the Psalms, and the prophets as a God-given record for the guidance and instruction of all his servants, not excluding himself. To him these sacred writings were a treasure store of God’s revelation of his purpose for man.
3 Today the Bible is in greater circulation than ever before. The Bible societies which exist to get it into circulation are active in their work; they ardently further their work abroad; and at home, partly because of their activities, it continues to be a “best seller”. Yet by the great mass of Christian peoples, who profess to be guided by it, it is held in less esteem than ever; for the critic has been abroad in the land, with the result that confidence in the Lord’s Word is very low.
4 If it is objected that without “scholarly criticism” we do not know that the Scriptures which we reverence and to which we trust are the same as those which Jesus knew so well and which he took for his guidance, we answer that the Old Testament as we have it, which contains the same writings that Jesus used, is consistent with itself; and there is no indication of its having lost or gained in its long journey through the changing centuries. The quotations from it which were made by the apostles in setting the foundation of the faith and practice of the church of Christ fix its authority in the church.
6 Further, the researches of men of good will, and even of those who have searched rather to find errors than to find corroboration, have served to prove to the follower of Christ and to the lover of God that the Bible is singularly free from serious blemishes which might naturally have so easily gotten into it. To the Bible Student there is no room for doubt on any matter essential to a true knowledge of the will and purpose of God.
6 To the Old Testament scriptures must be added the writings of the apostles, the whole making the Word of God, which is to be received by the followers of Jesus now and ultimately by all men. Every word of Jesus which has been recorded is part of the revelation of God, Also the accounts written of his birth and works, of his death and resurrection, are received as God-given. The trivial matters of the early Christians’ daily arrangements and of their communal life were not necessary to the life of the church, and are not recorded.
7 That the holy spirit of God brought back to the apostles’ memory those things necessary to be recorded and believed is certain. (John 16:13) The doings and sayings of the apostles as they instructed the church were made part of the revelation in order to guide the church; and the whole forms the Word of God as it must be received, the Word which is able to make a man wise unto salvation and to make the man of God perfect in his equipment for service. Besides this, it should be understood that the Scriptures are God’s witness to himself. Its prophecies were placed on record that when in God’s due time their time for fulfilment would come, they would thus be a proof that Jehovah alone is God. None other than Jehovah could foretell the future; and there are thousands of years between the prophecies and the events which have fulfilled them.
8 How is the Word of God to be used ? Moses told Israel that the things which he taught them about God they were to bind on their hand for a sign, and have them for frontlets between their eyes. How literally this was to be understood is not certain. A sign indicates something seen; perhaps a ring with a seal, or a bangle on the wrist with a token, was here intended. Jesus did not condemn the Pharisees for wearing a phylactery; all he said was that they made them broad so as to call the peoples’ attention to their claim to reverence for the law.
8 Israel was to write the instruction of Moses on the door posts; that is, some reminder, a text as we would say, was to be written there as now-a-days we have mottoes with Scripture words for hanging on the walls of dwellings. But the Israelites were also to write the words of the law on their hearts; that is, they were to lay them up in their minds so as to be able to meditate on them day and night, abroad or at home; and to preserve them by telling their children the story of God’s wonderful dealings with them, and of all his goodness.
10 Israel’s sons in the days of Israel’s degeneracy made a great profession of reverence for the law of God, and with great ostentation wore their phylacteries, with passages from the law, on their arms and on their foreheads. But it was almost all for outward show. The Word of God was not in their minds, nor the love of the Word of God in their hearts. The organized systems of Christendom have made the same profession of reverence for the whole of the Bible as the Jew did for his sacred writings, the Old Testament. But they have done exactly as the Jew did. The churches of Rome and of England have done little to explain or expound the Word of God. Each based its claim upon the Word, founded their services and creeds, and then expected no further light.
11 In later days, as Protestantism began to be broken up into sects, more attention was paid to the Bible. In still later days sects have arisen who have called attention to certain texts of Scripture and, by making "a belief” out of their choice, have emphasized them. Thus it has come about that with many there is a much wider knowledge of the Word of God than ever before. It is apparent that a knowledge of certain texts is not in itself of service; indeed, frequently such knowledge does more harm than good, because pride takes the place of a humble desire to serve God. “Knowledge puffeth up,” said Paul; and he referred specially to Bible knowledge.
12 But granted a knowledge of the truth of the Bible, and humility with it, also a desire to glorify God by means of that knowledge, then the more of it the follower of Jesus has the* better he can serve his Master. Here is where the disciples were advantaged; they were well versed in the Word of God. Other things considered, it may properly be supposed that those of them who were the better versed in the Scriptures were of the most service in the church. However, some were called for one reason, some for another. It is manifest that even some of the apostles were not called to be interpreters of Scripture.
13 At Pentecost Peter said at once that the manifestation which the people saw was the fulfilment of Joel’s prophecy, and he quoted Joel probably without any reference to the Scripture roll. It should not be understood that Peter’s mind was miraculously charged with the words of the prophecy; the holy spirit merely stirred them to remembrance, but did not put them into his mind. In exactly the same way those who now are called apart from the world to serve Jehovah can serve him best if they serve with a clear understanding.
13 The Bible is more than a collection of ancient writings and of the sayings and doings of good men. It speaks of itself as the living Word, as when Peter says, “Having been regenerated, not from corruptible, but from incorruptible seed, through the living and enduring Word of God.” (1 Peter 1:23, Diaglott) Evidently more is intended than the thought of the Scriptures conveying words which lead to life—the Word itself is living.
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