The Watchtower, November 15, 1930

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YEAR BOOK

The Year Book for 1931 will be ready for delivery about December 15. It contains the President’s Annual Report, which is very encouraging to all the anointed. For instance, the report shows an increase of 150 percent in the distribution of bound books in Germany during the year. There was a large increase in the United States and in other places. The Watch Tower list is especially interesting. A number of subscribers canceled their subscriptions during the year, presumably because no longer in harmony with the Society. About the same number of new subscribers were enrolled, and the number of workers in the field has increased. This indicates that the Lord has someone ready to take the place of anyone who steps aside. There are many other interesting features in the report.

A number of classes report that where the class is small a portion of the Prayer Meeting hour is used in giving consideration to some part of the Report relating to a country. In this way the workers keep in close touch with every part of the field, and this is an encouragement to each other. The suggestion is a good one, and profitable.

In addition to the complete report are the Scripture texts with comments for the year. First is the Year Text, with appropriate comment, and a text for each Wednesday prayer meeting; and then a text for every day of the year, with suitable comment.

Send your orders in promptly. If each ecclesia, through its secretary or stockkeeper, will act promptly in sending in orders, designating the number you wish, this will greatly aid us in determining the number to bind up. The limited edition makes it necessary to take the usual price of fifty cents a book. Where the class orders a number through the stokkeeper, the shipment may be by parcel post, freight or express.

Vol. LI

November 15, 1930

No. 22

OPPOSING GOD

“Hear the word of the Lord, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name’s sake, said, Let the Lord be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.”—Isa. 66: 5.

JEHOVAH builds his own house. No creatures can build it for him. “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it; except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” (Ps. 127:1) Some who have heard the call to the kingdom have failed to learn this great and plainly expressed truth. Creatures may do some work on the Lord’s house, but they must do it in God’s appointed way, otherwise it will be rejected. Jehovah by his Chief Executive Officer assembles the material and erects the structure.

2 The house or temple of God is made up of his chosen and anointed ones. No man can put another into that temple of God, and no man can take one out of it. The Scriptures plainly teach that an attempt will be made to build a house and call it the house of God, but which in fact is opposed to God’s house. Being warned that Satan at this time would use every endeavor to destroy God’s remnant on the earth it is to be expected that he would attempt a counterfeit of God’s house and that some would be drawn into such a movement and become opposers of Jehovah because they have not received the love of the truth.

3 The context and setting of this prophecy aids to the understanding of the text directly under consideration. The second part of the book of Isaiah deals with the deliverance of the captives of Israel who were held by Cyrus, the conqueror, in Babylon. The historical facts are that with the deliverance of Israel came also the instruction from Cyrus to rebuild the temple of Jehovah at Jerusalem. Cyrus issued a proclamation and spread it throughout all his kingdom, which at that time was considered as being “all the kingdoms of the earth’’. That proclamation declared that God had charged Cyrus to build him a house in Jerusalem that the worship of Jehovah might once again be had there.—2 Chron. 36: 22, 23; Ezra 1:1-4.

4 Since these things were written to have particular application and meaning at the end of the world, it might be expected that in Isaiah’s prophecy there would be some reference made to the rebuilding of the temple of Jehovah and the coming of Christ thereto and that the information would be given especially for the encouragement and comfort of the anointed ones.—Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11.

5 In the prophecy of Isaiah Cyrus is used to picture or represent the Servant of Jehovah who is used to build up Zion. The name Cyrus means “sun’’, and he was used by the Lord to picture the “Sun of righteousness”. (Mal. 4:2) The first captives that were delivered from Babylon and returned to Jerusalem helped to prepare the ground or way for those that followed later. Following the deliverance came the rebuilding of the temple. God caused Isaiah to prophesy and express his will in this matter: “[The Lord] saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.”—Isa. 44: 28.

6 While it is true that Cyrus had not known God, yet he was used by Jehovah in a representative capacity. That which was of paramount importance in rebuilding the temple was to show to the people that Jehovah is the only God, besides whom there is none, and this would result beneficially to his creatures. Only a small number of the Jews, comparatively speaking, returned with Zerubbabel and Joshua under the order of Cyrus. These began the rebuilding of the temple. It is to be expected that God would encourage those whom he had commissioned and sent to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple as long as they carried out his orders in the appointed way.

7 Returning now to Isaiah’s prophecy (66:1-4): The words of the prophet are clearly not words of encouragement, but words of rebuke from Jehovah. This would seem to foreshadow that the class which in the name of the Lord would claim to be rendering the sacrifice and service unto God, by attempting to build a house or city, was doing so contrary to God’s appointed way. Jehovah through his prophet says: “The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?” (Isa. 66:1) This text and context indicate an attempt on the part of the company claiming to be followers of Christ to build an organization contrary to the will of God and in opposition to his Word. Hence the words of rebuke.

8 The last chapter of Isaiah’s prophecy seems to be in the nature of an epilogue, and it presents a situation which has a correspondency at the time Christ gathers together his people unto himself at the temple. This prophecy or afterspeech seems to be immediately followed with a great event. It is now made clear to the anointed people of God that most of Isaiah’s prophecy is in course of fulfilment. The “servant” has been made manifest to the anointed on earth, to whom God has said: “Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the nations.”—Isa. 42: 1.

9 Christ Jesus has come to his temple, and has builded up Zion, and those that are brought under the robe of righteousness and into the temple are made a part of the “servant”. The “servant” has God’s special favor. The work of the “servant”, and particularly those composing that part on the earth, has been made plainly to appear. The words of the Head apply to all who are members of the “servant”, to wit, “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because Jehovah hath anointed me.” God has put his spirit upon the “servant” and commissioned the “servant” to do his work, and all of the anointed who do that work must do it in God’s appointed way. Anyone that would attempt to take another or different course of action than that outlined by the Lord would be an abomination to him and therefore subjected to his rebuke.

10 The period of time designated as ‘ preparing the way before Jehovah’ began about 1878. That marks the time when the spiritual Israelites in Babylon began to be delivered under the guidance of the truths restored and made known to them. The light of truth concerning the second appearing of Christ Jesus then began to be understood, and from that time forward those who received the truth have divided themselves into three companies or groups, to wit: (1) those who once saw the truth and then forsook it; (2) those who received the truth and for a time rejoiced in the prospect of occupying a high position in heaven and of being joint rulers of the world, and who because of their wrong motive were led away into error by the subtle influence of the wicked one; and (3) that company which received the truth and the love of the truth, and which has been faithfully watching to know and to do the will of God, being diligent in his service, and doing that service in God’s appointed way.

11 Those composing this latter class have known better than to attempt to build a house or temple for Jehovah. They have appreciated the truth that except Jehovah build the house it could not be built. Discerning the truth of and concerning the temple of God, and of their great privilege of being made a part thereof, by the grace of God, this faithful little company has delighted to speak continuously of Jehovah and his temple, and to show forth his. praises by being his witnesses as commanded. (Ps. 29:9) It is not at all reasonable that Jehovah would rebuke this little faithful company and cast them away from him and refuse their sacrifices as being abominable in his sight.

12 It is therefore evident that chapter sixty-six of Isaiah’s prophecy opens with a rebuke to those who have sought to go about and claim to do God’s work in their own way and contrary to God’s way. They have been negligent in ascertaining the will of God and have been doing what work they have done according to their own selfish desires. There are those, as is well known, who claim that they are the temple of God, that they are God’s little flock and elect, and who refuse to have any part in giving testimony according to God’s commandments, and who openly oppose those who do give that testimony. Such are properly designated the opposers of God. The plain statement of Jehovah is that no temple that these opposers shall build will be acceptable and that their sacrifices are obnoxious to him. Concerning such Jehovah by his prophet says: “When I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.” —Vs. 4.

13 To this same class Jehovah speaks in chapters fifty-eight and fifty-nine of Isaiah’s prophecy, giving fair warning and bidding them to become awake to their opportunities and to join with his organization and go forward with his work, and telling them that a failure to do so would completely separate them from God. These are told by the Lord that they keep the sabbath in their own selfish way. (Isa. 58:13) God has declared what he would have done in this day of his rest and that his people particularly should be his witnesses. (Isa. 43:10-12) Then adds the prophet of God: “Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it: that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” (Isa. 56: 2) Through his Word God makes it plain as to who would please and who would displease him. Concerning this class that is first indifferent and then becomes opposers it is written by the prophet of the Lord: “Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness; ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.” (Isa. 58:3,4) Thus is plainly pointed out a class that ignore God’s will and take a course marked out by their own selfishness.

14 It must be true that God has but one organization doing his work on earth. It would be wholly unreasonable and inconsistent for God to have two opposing organizations and both actually doing his work. God is not inconsistent in anything. That being true, then any company that would oppose God’s organization and forsake it would thereby be forsaking and opposing the Lord. This is evidently the class referred to by the prophet of God who says: “But ye are they that forsake the Lord, that forget my holy mountain [organization], that prepare a table [different from God’s table] for that troop, and that furnish the drink offering unto that number.”—Isa. 65:11,12.

15 These words are almost identical with the words used in Isaiah 66: 4 and show that they have reference to the same class. The sacrifices of such class being contrary to God’s appointed way, he says concerning those who thus sacrifice and of their sacrifices: “He that killeth an ox is as if he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, as if he cut off a dog’s neck; he that offereth an oblation, as if he offered swine’s blood; he that burneth incense, as if he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations. ’ ’—Isa. 66: 3.

16 After Zerubbabel, and the released Israelites with him, returned to Jerusalem it was proper for them to work on the temple building, because that was God’s expressed purpose and will concerning them. They must do that work, however, in God’s appointed way, and they did. In these last days, when God is errecting his temple not made with hands, his people have been informed concerning the temple and its rebuilding and their own work or service in connection with its being brought together and their opportunity to do service. Those who serve, therefore, must render service to God in his appointed way. He has but one appointed way. It follows that anyone who would pursue a contrary course would be opposing God.

17 The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and gathering together unto him of his faithful followers dates from 1918. (2 Thess. 2:1) It is from that time in particular that disobedience to the Lord began to be manifested by those who professed to be in the covenant with him. The truth continued to be made clear from that time forward and objection and opposition thereto has been manifested by those who have broken away from the Society since said date, and this opposition has increased. In Revelation 11:18,19 it is disclosed that the day of God’s wrath is come and that the temple in heaven is open. Immediately following is the statement of Revelation 12 of two great signs in heaven, which are, to wit, God’s organization and Satan’s organization. The opposers of the Society have declined to accept these signs in the heavens by which God’s people are to be guided. They refuse to see the organization of Jehovah pictured by the woman giving birth to the man child. They decline to accept the truth of and concerning Satan’s organization. They reject completely the opposition of Satan, pictured by the dragon’s attempt to destroy the man child. They also refuse to accept the truth of God’s building up Zion from that time forward. Not only do they refuse to accept these truths, but they vigorously oppose them and denounce those whom God has permitted to call attention to them. Rejecting these present-day truths they refuse to have any part in giving testimony concerning the kingdom of God and that Jehovah is the only true God. They refuse to call attention to Satan’s organization that is opposing God. They oppose the organization which God has used for more than half a century to proclaim his truth and which he now continues to use.

18 Instead of being obedient to the Lord they go about trying to form an organization according to their own pattern. They attempt to build a house and an organization different from God’s organization, and therefore God says to them: “Where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?” Jehovah tells them he is building his own house and that he looks with approval, not on the efforts of the opposers, but upon his own people who are poor in their own sight, and of a contrite spirit, and who are joyfully obedient to the Word of God. Thus the organization of Jehovah and those opposing his organization are here clearly made manifest. Those of God’s organization on earth love him and are devoted to him. Those who oppose God and his organization love themselves. Therefore God says concerning the opposers: ‘I will choose their delusions, and bring their fears upon them. ’ Concerning this same class it is written in the Word of God: “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. ’ ’—2 Thess. 2: 11, 12.

ENCOURAGED

19 Then Jehovah addresses those who make up the company that heeds and obeys his Word. He causes his prophet to say: “Hear the word of the Lord, ye that tremble at his word: Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name’s sake, said, Let the Lord be glorified; but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.” (Isa. 66:5) Jehovah tells these faithful ones that the opposers, once their brethren who walked with them, have hated them and cast them out because of their faithfulness to God’s name, and that these opposers then claimed to do this to the glory of God. It is well known that every company that has withdrawn from the Society, and every person forming a part of any of these companies, has done so of his own volition. Ambitious and selfish leaders in little groups have led this company of opposers out. While this company of opposers disagree amongst themselves and find no unity in the Lord’s service, they all oppose the witness work of the Society that is being done in the name of and in obedience to the commandments of the Lord. The leaders in this opposition say: “Let us vigorously oppose and resist the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society and thereby let the name of the Lord be glorified.” Their attitude and speech tend to discourage some of God’s people, and for their encouragement Jehovah says to them, in substance: ‘Be not discouraged; for the Lord shall appear to your joy and they shall be ashamed.’ Thus again the two classes are clearly made known, one that serves God and the other that opposes God.

20 Those who tremble at God’s Word are the ones who are diligent to keep and obey his commandments. They have no fight, to be sure, with the opposers of God’s work. They are being attacked by the opposers, and mention is here made of it, not for the purpose of controversy, but that God’s people may be encouraged in seeing the fulfilment of prophecy, as it is manifested by the will of God they shall be encouraged. When it is clearly seen that the opposition to God’s work was long ago foretold by his prophet, and that the prophecy is now being fulfilled, such is a great encouragement to the faithful and is an evidence that the Lord is dealing with them and that they are in his favor. It is therefore clear that it is the will of God that attention of the faithful shall be called to these things at this time.

21 The total number of those who have withdrawn from the Society and now oppose its work is comparatively large, when such are taken all together. These are now divided into many companies, all claiming to be followers of Christ and claiming to be God’s little flock, while at the same time they speak evil things concerning those who are faithfully endeavoring to serve God. They denounce the Society and its work, saying that its activities are due to a man-made theory and that those who go to make up the Society are carnally minded and are engaged in a book-selling business and not in the service of Jehovah. Their leaders in various companies say: ‘‘Let us get together and select men and send them amongst the various ecclesias that compose the Society and cause dissensions there and break up their work.” These opposers of God’s work refuse to see the vicious organization of Satan the enemy and to warn anyone against it. Even when they see the thief stealing the devotion of the people away from God they refuse to give warning.

22 They continually speak evil of those who are in the covenant with the Lord. While they are doing all this opposition work they claim to be God’s representatives. Clearly the Lord’s prophet speaks of this opposition class when he says: “But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth, seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my word behind thee? When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son.” —Ps. 50: 16-20.

23 It is presumptuous for any man or company of men to attempt to build the house or organization of Jehovah unless directed to do so. Moses erected the tabernacle in the wilderness, not according to his own ideas, but exactly according to the pattern which God showed to him. The Israelites could not make a place of worship to Jehovah contrary to his direction. David desired to build the temple for Jehovah and was not allowed to do so, although God gave him credit for his right condition of heart. When the time came that Jehovah would have a temple built he directed that Solomon should build the same, and it was so built. (1 Chron. 17:11,12; 28:1-12) The spirit of the Lord God provided David with the pattern of the porch of the house for the temple, and Solomon was directed to build it accordingly. When the exiles returned from Babylon they built the temple, not according to their own desires, but according to the instructions of the Lord. Cyrus was acting as a type of Christ and he gave the orders for the rebuilding of the house of Jehovah at Jerusalem. (See Ezra 1:3.) Contrary to this divine rule the opposers of God’s organization, named in Isaiah 66:1, presumptuously set about to build a temple and a city, which is a symbol of an organization, about which they have not received instructions from the Lord. They direct their own way and work contrary to God’s instructions and are therefore workers of iniquity.—Matt. 7: 23.

24 No man or company of men has put these opposers out of God’s organization, nor could they put them out; but the opposers, by persisting in their wrongful course of action, have been gathered out by the Lord. (Matt. 13:41) Therefore Jehovah says to such: “Where is my place of rest?” These words of Jehovah surely refer to the city or organization which Jehovah acknowledges as his own. That organization is Zion, as it is written: “For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.”(Ps. 132:13,14) This must mean that any other organization aside from Zion God would not recognize, and the fact that the Lord Jehovah uses the Society in his work and that the Society is doing his work shows that those who oppose are opposing the work of God. Zion is made up of God’s approved and anointed ones.

25 There is now a concerted movement amongst the leaders of the various groups which have withdrawn from and which oppose the work of the Society, to form a compact or an organized effort having for its objective the more effective opposition to the work of the Society. This the Lord foretold through his prophets for the encouragement of his own people. In keeping with his precious promise he says: “New things do I declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them. ’ ’ —Isaiah 42: 9.

ORGANIZATIONS

26 By the language of Isaiah 66: 6 is again disclosed two organizations, one which is in confusion and opposes God, and the other which is in harmony with and serves God. A voice is a symbol of a message or doctrine being proclaimed. The prophet first speaks of a voice of noise from a city or organization and which is therefore discordant. The other voice the prophet mentions yields sweet harmony. The prophet says: “A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the Lord that rendereth recompence to his enemies.” (Isa. 66: 6) The voice of one who cannot sing when attempting to sing produces a rasping, discordant noise. A company of such voices produces an exceedingly discordant noise. The companies opposing the Society have each some pet measure to sing. All these try to harmonize their notes in opposition to the message of God’s kingdom. The combined efforts of their organizations trying to act in one organization results in a voice of noise from the city, symbolic of an organization. There is no unity or beauty about it, but everything contrary thereto. There is no sound more beautiful and harmonious to the human ear than that of the trained human voice singing praise to Jehovah God. The voice of a spirit creature must be far more wonderful, harmonious and beautiful. The singing of the song of Moses and the Lamb by God’s people on earth is beautiful because the song is led by the Head of the temple class. This song, to those who can learn, sing and hear it, is sweet, grand and glorious.

27 Note that the prophet says: “A voice from the temple, a voice of the Lord. ’ ’ This proves that the voice which gives utterance to the message or doctrine that is approved proceeds from Jehovah and the one leading in the song is Christ Jesus the Head of the temple. He is now in his temple and all his holy angels are with him. The risen members of the body of Christ are also assembled with him in the temple. The approved ones on earth, being of the organization (city) of God, and members of the temple, are privileged to join in the song. It is a grand, glorious and harmonious message that flows out from Zion to the praise of Jehovah God. All in the temple are joining in this song of praise to God’s glory.—Ps. 29: 9.

28 Those who oppose the organization of God make to the ear a hard and splitting noise of confusion. By this it is proven that they have made themselves a part of Satan’s organization. All who are against God and his organization are anti-kingdom. It was Jesus who said: “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” (Matt. 12:30) The voice of noise, therefore, is a voice of anti-kingdom and anti-God, and Satan is using those who make this noise for his purpose and for their own destruction.—2 Thess. 2: 9,10.

29 The fact that the prophet says, “A voice from the temple, ’ ’ shows that the message makes known the judgment of God against those who oppose his house and his kingdom. The Lord is in his holy temple for judgment, and judgment must begin with those who profess to be his followers. (Ps. 11:4; 1 Pet. 4:17) The words of the prophet make this conclusion doubly sure concerning judgment upon the opposers, when he says: “A voice of the Lord that rendereth recompence to his enemies.” The “servant” class is commissioned to declare ‘ ‘ the day of the vengeance of our God”, and it is therefore incumbent upon the “servant” to call attention to God’s judgment upon the opposers. It is not man’s judgment, and no man has a right even to declare it except at the command of the Lord. The prophet visualizes a company of people doing something which they claim to be doing in the name of God and to his honor but which is not according to God’s will and which God rejects. The opposition of this company is so marked against God and his organization that he takes note of it, and this fact is made known by God’s bringing these opposers into quick judgment. It seems this is necessary as a warning to others lest they become displeasing to God.

30 It should not be at all difficult for anyone who loves the Lord to discern whence comes the voice of noise and what organization is giving forth the voice of the Lord from the temple. This information God gives for the comfort and encouragement of his people.

31 The sixty-sixth chapter of Isaiah bears a close relation to Revelation 11:18 and 19 and also the twelfth chapter of Revelation. In the eleventh chapter of Revelation the declaration is made that the temple is open in heaven and that the time of judgment is come. Immediately follows the statement in the twelfth chapter showing the birth of the kingdom of God. Verses seven to ten of that chapter show that the universal organization of God has given birth to the kingdom, pictured by the man child, and all those of Zion are called upon to rejoice. Isaiah did not speak of the birth of the man child as if he were making a record of that fact as having then come to pass, but rather the language shows (verse 9) that Jehovah speaks sharply to those who ought to know but who refuse to believe and accept these great truths as to what God had brought to pass.

32 For some years preceding 1918 the church was expecting the coming and setting up of the kingdom. In 1914 the kingdom was born, as pictured by the man child. Thereafter, to wit, in 1918 and 1919, great travail or trouble came upon the people of God. This of itself should have caused the consecrated to look sharply for the evidence of the beginning of the kingdom; but even after 1925, when the Lord through The Watch Tower brought forth the clear testimony proving that Zion had given birth to the man child, which is the kingdom and which shall rule the world, many of those who had been of the Society refused to accept that truth and began to bitterly oppose The Watch Tower and the work of the Society. In the prophecy God seems to be saying: ‘You should have known that the day of the birth was at hand; and when I gave you the proof, why should you doubt it?’ The language of the prophet is: “Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the Lord: shall I cause to bring forth, and shut the womb? saith thy God.’’ —Isa. 66: 9.

33 It is a well known fact that many stumbled over this very truth concerning the birth of the nation or kingdom and became opposers of the Society. God also showed the beginning of the kingdom by the laying of the chief corner Stone in Zion, and over this the same class stumbled and fell and became opposers of God.

34 Quickly following the announcement of the birth of the man child and the birth of the children of Zion God by his prophet calls upon all creatures of his organization to rejoice. All who love God and his organization are bidden to sing forth with joy: ‘‘ Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her.’’ (Isa. 66:10) Likewise Revelation, which God gave to Jesus Christ to show his servants, speaking of the same thing, says: “And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.. . . Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. ’ ’—Rev. 12:10,12.

35 The facts which show a fulfilment of this prophetic utterance are that when God’s children on earth were given an understanding of the birth of the kingdom there was great rejoicing among all those who really loved God. At the same time the opposers became sour and cold. The fulfilment of these prophecies, and the clear proof thereof being brought to the lovers of God, gives every reason for rejoicing. It is also certain that God permits his anointed ones to see and understand these prophecies now for their encouragement and comfort and strength. No one could have any real pleasure in even calling attention to the opposers of God and his organization, but this must be done for the benefit of those who love God as well as to announce God’s judgment from the temple. The knowledge of the fulfilment of these prophecies should have the effect of causing the anointed to continue to walk humbly before God and to be diligent in keeping his commandments. The fact that the prophet of God calls upon all who love him and his organization to rejoice may be taken to mean that those who do not rejoice over the fulfilment of prophecies, and who reject them, do not love God and are therefore the enemies of God and of his organization.

36 The prophet, in verse fourteen, says: “And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb; and the hand of the Lord shall be known toward his servants, and his indignation toward his enemies.’’ Here is a promise that those children of God who see and appreciate the fulfilment of the promise shall rejoice and flourish like an herb. Thus God’s loving-kindness is made known and is exercised toward his “servant’’ class, while at the same time his indignation shall be toward those who oppose and who are therefore his enemies. His indignation is thus expressed in verse fifteen: “For, behold, the Lord will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to render his anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire.’’ The same class of opposers are mentioned by the prophet in the preceding chapter. (Isa. 65:3-7) These are they to whom Jehovah had stretched out his right hand as if beseeching them to hear him and to be obedient to his commandments but who, instead of hearing the Lord, walk on in their own way. Their disobedience provokes the Lord, and he says: “A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burneth incense upon altars of brick. ’ ’—Isa. 65: 3.

37 Jehovah brought to pass the facts fulfilling his prophecies, and he caused these truths to be published and sent to those who had made a covenant with him. This message was carried by those who were humbly and faithfully endeavoring to obey the Lord; but the opposers refused to hear, and refusing to hear, said to the witnesses who brought the truth: “Stand by thyself, come not near to me, for I am holier than thou.” These opposers have claimed to be the only ones approved by God and claim to be therefore holier than others, as the prophet thus foretold, and concerning them Jehovah says: “These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.”—Isa. 65: 5.

38 A tree is a symbol of a creature, and these opposers have insisted upon giving honor and glory to the creature whom God used in his church rather than to God and to his organization. They insist that the creature brought forth all the truth by the end of A. D. 1916 and that no truth has been received since. Concerning them Jehovah caused his prophet to write: “They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens, behind one tree in the midst, eating swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together, saith the Lord.” (Vs. 17) They that withdraw themselves from God’s organization separate themselves into small companies and attempt to purify themselves by their own efforts, and to develop a beautiful character, and they deceive themselves. They that give honor and glory to the creature that was used to bring forth the truth, and then reject the progressive light of the truth, which God gives, become an abomination to him. Concerning such Jesus said: “Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”—Luke 16:15.

39 In Revelation 22:17 Jehovah, Christ Jesus and his bride join in the message to the people that are afar off to hear and heed the Word of God concerning salvation and his kingdom. In like manner God by his prophet Isaiah says: “For I know their works and their thoughts; it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory.” (Vs. 18) The glory of the Lord shall be sung by all the people, and that is now beginning.

40 Jehovah has declared his purpose to completely vindicate his Word and name. That great work of vindication began when Christ Jesus came to the temple and began judgment. It was at that time that he found a class of consecrated ones induced by a righteous motive or heart condition to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Because of their love for God and Christ and because of their faithfulness in the performance of their covenant up to that time the Lord there began to gather unto himself these true-hearted ones. He brought them into the temple, under the robe of righteousness, and gave unto them the garments of salvation, and made this faithful class the custodian of all his kingdom interests on earth. Then the Lord manifested his mercy toward the dreamers and indolent and the self-righteous ones, by sending them the message of truth and giving them fair warning. Those who rejected that strong warning that came from the Lord have now developed into open opposers of God and his organization. The “man of sin, the son of perdition”, is made manifest.

41 Let the faithful anointed ones now have a keen appreciation of the position in which Jehovah has placed them. Let them be hearers of the Word of God and doers of his will. Let them do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before God. To walk humbly means to be joyfully obedient to the commandments of God.

42 Regardless of what others may say, do not be turned away from a whole-hearted devotion to God and his service. The greatest privilege of any creatures that have ever been on earth is that now enjoyed by the anointed of the Lord.

43 Christ Jesus stands at the head of God’s glorious organization, pictured under the symbol of Mount Zion. The anointed ones stand with him and are definitely identified as God’s children because they are wholly devoted to him. These love God, and Jehovah loves them because they are of Zion and are faithful to him. These are now privileged to join in the great message that goes forth to the nations of the earth, proclaiming that Jehovah is God, Christ is King, and that the kingdom is here. Continuing from now on faithful in the performance of their covenant these shall be granted an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our God and his Christ. That great prize will be given, not because of inherent and self-developed beauty, but because of faithfulness and loving devotion to the Lord. Forever shall these faithful ones stand in the house of Jehovah, beholding his glory and beauty, and continuing to obtain knowledge and wisdom in his temple. Regardless of all manner of opposition, be very courageous henceforth. “The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.”—Ps. 29:11.

QUESTIONS FOR BEREAN STUDY

1, 2. What constitutes the house or temple of God? Who builds this house? Against what unauthorized activity are God’s people here warned?

3, 4. Relate the account of the proclamation concerning the rebuilding of Jehovah’s temple at Jerusalem. Why was this made a part of the Divine Record?

5, 6. What reason may be seen for Jehovah’s committing this matter to Cyrus? What was the response to the proclamation, and the result?

7. What was foreshown by the words of Isaiah 66: 1-4?

8, 9. What are some of the facts which indicate the time of fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy?

10-12. Point out the fulfilment of that which was pictured in the deliverance of the captives of Israel from Babylon. What classes became manifest?

13-16. Account for the words of rebuke with which Isaiah 66 opens. Point out other reproof and warning in Isaiah’s prophecy. What is significant in the charge that “they have chosen their own ways”?

17, 18. Describe the position taken by those who fail to discern the two ‘great signs in heaven’.

19-22. Apply Isaiah 66: 5.

23-25. When Jehovah would have a work done for him he directed as to who should do that work and how it should be done. Point out the lesson contained therein. Show whether this lesson has been learned and applied by those who have had opportunity to know Jehovah’s purposes.

26-30. By description of message and activity, identify (a) the “voice of noise from the city”; (b) the “voice from the temple ’ ’.

31, 32. Show the relation of Isaiah 66 to Revelation 11: 18,19 and Revelation 12. Describe circumstances to account for the words of the Lord in Isaiah 66: 9.

33-35. Describe fulfilment of Isaiah 66: 10 and Revelation 12: 10,12, showing the close relationship between the two prophecies.

36, 37. Point out two classes referred to in verse 14, the attitude of each, and the manner in which the Lord will deal with each.

38. Describe the circumstances by which the class referred to in verse 17 is identified.

39, 40. How has the beginning of the judgment of God’s people made manifest two classes? How has the Lord dealt with each class, and for what purpose?

41-43. How will the faithful anointed ones now regard their position? How maintain it? What future privilege awaits them?

GREATEST CAUSE UNDER THE SUN

Dear Brother Rutherford:

It is with great pleasure that I send you these few lines.

I am on the firing line, shooting daily at old Babylon. What a joy when she falls!

I am glad, dear brother, to be with you in the greatest cause under the sun. Surely the dear Lord is pleased with your untiring efforts, or he would let Satan put you out. We all know that the old Dragon would delight to put you down; but greater is he that is for you than all that can be against you.

I am thoroughly in harmony with all that is coming out from the Lord’s house, and want to express my joy and appreciation for the Watch Tower articles. Press on, dear brother, and be assured of my loving devotion to the dear Lord and my prayers for you.

Your brother in the Lord’s Big Business,

Wm. A. Carroll, Colporteur.

WHO ARE GOD’S WITNESSES

JEHOVAH is the only true God. He is the Creator and Giver of everything that is good. He is the source of life. A knowledge of him means to know the way to life, and life is what all sane persons desire.

Jehovah God has a mighty organization, the major portion of which is invisible to human eyes. It consists of Christ Jesus, the chief One, and a myriad of spirit creatures, and Jehovah is Head over all. It has a few members on earth amongst men. For a time the nation of Israel represented God on earth, the chief purpose in their use being to make prophetic pictures of a more potent representative whom God would have on earth. From amongst Israel God chose his faithful prophets and used them as his instruments to write down prophecy which they did not understand, but which can now be understood because it is God’s due time to understand.

Among those who wrote prophecy was Isaiah. This prophecy placed alongside the events of modern history shows that the prophecy relates to the very day in which we are now living. In Isaiah 43:8 it is written: "Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.” Clearly this prophecy means that at the time of its fulfilment there would be nations of peoples having natural eyes but mentally blind; that they can hear sounds of words but they understand them not. Such condition exists today because of the divers theories that are put forth by those who claim to be teachers of the Word of God. There is great confusion amongst the people, particularly in so-called ‘ ‘ Christendom ’ ’.

Then adds the prophet: "Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled.” That condition now exists as never before, and now the radio makes it possible for millions to hear at one time. Then the prophet of God propounds this question: "Who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? Let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified, or let them hear [my witnesses], and say, It is [the] truth.” Then to his faithful Jehovah says: "Ye are my witnesses, saith Jehovah.” There is a great question at issue which must now be determined and God will have testimony given upon that question at issue. Who are the witnesses in behalf of Jehovah ? Today the stronger nations of the earth constitute what is called "Christendom”, the religion of which is called "organized Christianity”, which name, as heretofore shown, is grossly misleading. The greater number of the clergymen of ‘ ‘ Christendom ’ ’ have chosen evolution and say: ‘This is a more potent God than the God of the Bible.’ Therefore Jehovah calls upon these to come forth and make proof or else hear the testimony of his witness and agree to it. A less number of clergymen, called "Fundamentalists”, teach contradictory theories of salvation; and all say: ‘Let the Christians of the world align themselves with the League of Nations as the savior of the world. ’ A great crisis in the affairs of men is rapidly approaching and immediately about to fall. There is therefore an imperative reason for giving testimony at this time before that great storm breaks.

THE TESTIMONY

Jehovah does not execute his purpose in secret. He gives due notice of his purposes. It was but a brief space of time after the expulsion of man from Eden that Satan formed a company of men and caused them to hypocritically call themselves by the name of the Lord. (Gen. 4:26) Men hurried down the road of evil. Satan also led many of the angelic sons of God into evil, causing them to leave their first estate, take on human form, and debauch the daughters of men. Because of this wickedness God determined to destroy that evil generation. (Gen. 6:7) Before doing so, he sent Noah to bear witness concerning his purpose. (2 Pet. 2: 5; 1 Pet. 3: 20) That which Noah did was prophetic and foretold what would come to pass at the end of the world. Of this there is not the slightest doubt, because Jesus so declared.—Matt. 24: 37.

When God would deliver his people from the oppressive hand of the ruler of Egypt, he sent Moses and Aaron to give testimony before that ruler and the people, of and concerning his purpose. (Ex. 3:18; 4: 16; 5: 1-4; see also Exodus 6 to 12) That what was there done by Moses and Aaron, and what followed thereafter with the Israelites, was prophetic and foretold similar things which would come to pass at the end of the world, is also certain. (1 Cor. 10: 11) The prophecies fulfilled disclose two mighty organizations, to wit, God’s organization and Satan’s organization, which are at enmity and between which the war in heaven has been fought, and between which there is yet a great war to be fought, involving all the peoples of earth. It should be expected that Jehovah God would give notice of that approaching conflict by having testimony given in his own good way, of and concerning his purposes.

THE ISSUE

The great question at issue for early determination by all creatures is, Who is the Almighty God? That issue must and will have a final determination, because God has so declared it. When Nimrod, under the supervision of Satan, built the tower of Babel, the purpose was to prove that Satan was equal to Jehovah God, if not greater. Jehovah destroyed that tower and confused the speech of that people that they might learn that he is the Almighty God.

When Egypt’s king became arrogant and oppressed God’s chosen people, the issue then was, Who is the supreme God? Jehovah demonstrated his supreme power at that time, that his name and his supremacy might be kept before his people for good, and to demonstrate to Egypt that Jehovah is God.—2 Sam. 7: 23.

When the king of Assyria appeared with arrogance before the city of Jerusalem the issue raised by him then was, Who is the supreme God? Jehovah destroyed the Assyrian army that the people might see who is supreme.—Isa. 36:18; 37: 36-38.

Today the world powers of combined Christendom give allegiance to Satan the Devil, and cast reproach upon Jehovah, while hypocritically claiming to be followers of Christ; and now the great issue is, Who is the Almighty God, and whom shall we obey? Jehovah has expressed his determination that the issue shall be settled, and that shortly; but before doing so, he will cause testimony to be given before the nations and peoples of the world of and concerning his purpose, to the end that the rulers and people may have an opportunity to know the truth; and further, that all mouths will be for ever stopped from saying that they had no opportunity to know. That the giving of such testimony should immediately precede the final determination of the great issue of the battle of Armageddon is made sure by the words of Jesus Christ, the great Prophet of Jehovah God: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. ’ ’—Matt. 24:14, 21.

The fact that God would have this testimony given before the great time of trouble is proof that he would thereby furnish a warning to, as well as an opportunity for, those who hear to profit by the facts, break away from Satan’s organization, and seek safety under the power and protection of Jehovah. It is equally certain that Satan would do everything within his power to keep the rulers and the people from hearing the testimony, to the end that he might hold them in his organization.

WHO WILL TESTIFY?

Testimony is given by witnesses, detailing certain facts that bear upon the issue. Who will be witnesses on the earth to testify to the name of Jehovah God as the Almighty One? That question can be determined by ascertaining whom God has used on former occasions when he would bring his name before creation. Jehovah puts his spirit upon men whom he sends to deliver his message of truth. That means that they are authorized to speak in his name. He endows such with power from on high to act as witnesses for him. His spirit is his invisible power operating according to his sovereign will. (2 Pet. 1:21) It is quite evident that God caused a record to be made of what he did in the past, to enable men to better understand what he will do in the future.

When God organized Israel into his prophetic organization he provided the priesthood to serve that people, and he caused the priests to be anointed with holy oil, thus indicating authority and approval from Jehovah. The holy oil was a representation of the holy spirit of God with which he anoints those who act in his behalf. Among other duties that must be performed by the priests of that time was that they were required to teach the people by informing them concerning God’s law and his purposes. (Mal. 2:7) The priests of that organization prophetically foretold a similar class that would serve his real organization ‘when Zion is builded up’.

Through his prophet God foretold the coming of his mighty Son Christ Jesus, the great Prophet of Jehovah. Concerning the work that He was to do, the prophet wrote: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn.’’ (Isa. 61:1, 2) When Jesus began his earthly work he took up the book containing that prophecy, read it in the hearing of others, and applied it to himself.

‘ ‘ The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.’’ (Luke 4:18, 19, 21) The fact that, in reading the prophecy at that time, Jesus omitted the words, “and the day of vengeance of our God,” must be significant.

He knew that he would come again, and that at his second coming and the end of the world the “vengeance of our God” should be told to the people before that great and terrible day; and this conclusion is fully supported by what he subsequently said to his disciples. (Matt. 24:14,21) In the period of time elapsing from Pentecost until the coming to his temple and the building up of Zion, his body members would be selected and gathered unto him. The last of these would constitute the “feet of him” and must therefore perform the duties designated by the authority of their anointing.—Isa. 52:7, 8.

For three and a half years Jesus gave testimony before the people and the rulers, telling of God’s purposes. When he stood before Pilate and responded to the questions concerning his mission on the earth and whether or not he was a king, he said: “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.” (John 18: 37) Thus he proved his mission to be that of the great Witness or Prophet of God, and that all who are really of the truth must hear and obey his voice and must be witnesses together with him.—Luke 24: 48.

One of the titles given unto Jesus by Jehovah is “the faithful and true witness”. (Rev. 3:14) It is also stated that his body members must be like him. (Rom. 8: 29) This likeness must of necessity consist in this, that his body members would be wholly and unreservedly devoted to Jehovah God and delight in keeping his commandments. That would mean that they must be witnesses for Jehovah.

“A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME”

Jehovah’s purpose in having the gospel preached from the time of Pentecost until the coming of Christ Jesus to his temple was to take out from among men “a people for his name”. The wily enemy Satan early began to carry on his campaign to offset God’s purpose. Well knowing that he must operate by fraud and deceit, he projected into the minds of the leaders in the earthly organization of the church the conclusion that the mission of the church is to convert the world and to robe it in glory and beauty in preparation for the second coming of Christ Jesus. Satan knew that men could not do this, but that to follow that course would keep them busy and would hide God’s real purpose from their understanding.

When Rome adopted a religion and named it the “Christian religion”, the leaders then began to carry on a great campaign to compel the people to become members of that church. That meant that Satan had gotten control of the organization and had made that organization the “religion” of his organization, therefore had made it a part of Babylon. Those who would not yield to this influence were subjected to all manner of cruel treatment and torture.

The real purpose of the church was entirely lost to the sight of honest persons, and such was the result of Satan’s evil influence. As the Pharisees were blind guides to the blind people when Jesus was on earth, even so the clergy, who are the counterpart of the Pharisees, became the blind guides of the people in the church, who likewise were blinded to the truth by Satan's course of action.

When the conditions in the Roman church became intolerable, some of the most honest ones broke away to form what is known as the Protestant church. The Protestants also fell under the seductive influence of Satan, misconceived the purpose of the church, and believed it to be their duty to convert the world to Protestantism. As a result thereof, many bloody wars followed, especially in Europe, between the Catholic and Protestant church organizations. Both of these great organizations participated freely in the politics of the world and really became a part of the ruling factors. The truth was hid to them. This condition of misconception of the purpose of the church continued until the second coming of the Lord and the beginning of the restoration of the fundamental doctrines of the truth.

During the period of time from 1878 forward the work of restoring the truth to the seekers therefor was carried on, which work was prophetically foretold by the course of action that Elijah took. In that period of time many withdrew from the Catholic and Protestant church organizations and joyfully embraced the truth; but some of the former errors clung to them. These errors are represented by the prophet as “the filthy garments” that were brought away with those who separated themselves from Babylon. Many of those who thus came to a knowledge of the truth and withdrew from the Catholic and Protestant organizations believed and proceeded upon the theory that their chief duty was to prepare themselves for heaven. To this end they set about to develop a sweet and beautiful character and to call the attention of others to the necessity of so doing. That they were honest in this, no one will question.

Of course it was right for them to believe that the Lord would give the faithful overcomers a part with him in his kingdom; and it was right for them to believe that they must be pure in thought, in word, and in action so far as possible; but they overlooked a work that must first be done by the followers of Christ while on the earth. Every Christian should lead a blameless life and put forth his best endeavors to always do that which is right; but that is not all that he must do. No man can by his own efforts become so good and perfect that by reason thereof he would be fit to reign with Christ in his kingdom.

The condition precedent to entering into that kingdom is love for and faithfulness unto Jehovah God and Christ Jesus. Such love is proven by joyfully keeping the commandments of God. (John 14:15, 21; 1 John 4:17,18; 5:3) That means that the overcomers are unselfishly devoted to the Lord and his cause and refuse to compromise, either directly or indirectly, with any part of the Devil’s organization. Those who are thus faithful to the end will be granted the crown of life and a place with Christ Jesus in his kingdom of heaven. The Christian cannot be faithful and true and at the same time neglect or ignore the commandments of Jehovah God. His delight will be to keep those commandments.

Jehovah reveals to man the meaning of his Word progressively. “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” (Prov. 4:18) The apostles began to see and understand God’s purpose at the time they were anointed with the holy spirit at Pentecost, but thereafter they saw more clearly. Likewise the Lord’s people gradually saw the truth as it was restored, and after the the Lord came to his temple they began to see it more clearly, and the light still continues to increase upon God’s Word. When Jesus was on earth he restricted his preaching to the Jews alone. For three and a half years thereafter his disciples taught the Jews exclusively. The religion of the Jews had become a formalism, as a result of the unfaithfulness of the clergy and leaders therein. For some time after Pentecost much of that formalism was held on to by the disciples of Jesus Christ.

A convention of the disciples of Jesus was held in Jerusalem to consider these questions. James, one of the disciples of the Lord, was the chairman of that convention. In the course of the discussion Peter related how God had sent the gospel by him to the Gentiles, and that now there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile so far as God’s Word and purpose are concerned. Then Paul and Barnabas addressed the convention and told what miracles and wonders God had wrought amongst the Gentiles by them. In summing up the matter James gave utterance to prophetic words. Harmonizing his own words with those of God’s prophet Amos, James said:

“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build the ruins thereof, and I will set it up; that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.” (Acts 15:7-18) Thus he showed that it was a part of God’s purpose from the beginning to take out “a people for his name” and, this done, then he would build up Zion, set his kingdom in operation (which was prophetically shown by the reign of David), and then the kingdom blessings would be extended to all the families of the earth.

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