The Watchtower, June 15, 1967

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The Watchtower — June 15, 1967

Source: jw.org

Contents

The Lure of the Lottery

Know Your God

Faith Required to Please God

Firm in Faith Despite Opposition

What Accepting Jesus Meant to Me

A Bridegroom Goes to War

The Bible’s Figurative Use of Body Parts

Questions From Readers

Announcements

The Lure of the Lottery

The Lure of the Lottery

WITHOUT doubt the lottery is a lure for many persons. The prospect of getting much in exchange for very little, as well as the excitement associated with it, is irresistible to not a few. Taking advantage of this fact, New York, one of America’s leading states, has inaugurated a state lottery, and the sale of tickets begins June 15, 1967.

The lottery might be said to be a twofold lure, for it is a lure not only to those who buy lottery tickets but also to governments as a source of revenue. The legislative body of New York state repeatedly voted for it, as well as a majority of the voters of the state, 2,464,898 voting for it as compared with 1,604,694 voting against it. In this they were following the example the people of the nearby state of New Hampshire, which three years ago was the first state in the United States in seventy years to operate a lottery. Throughout the world lotteries are operated by more than eighty countries, which pocket upward of $1,000 million annually in profits.

The Irish Sweepstakes might be said to be the most widely known and patronized luring lottery, it also being the biggest business in Eire. According to Fortune, a leading United States business magazine, the Irish Sweepstakes manages to sell tickets in 146 different lands. It professes to take in about $45 million annually and to give about one-fifth of this to charity. West Germany may well have the largest lottery lure, for its three national lotteries collect $545 million annually, one-third of which goes to health, youth and sports programs. Last December Madrid had its largest holiday lottery ever, $50 million being distributed to the winners. England, France and Mexico operate profitable lotteries and so do such Communist lands as the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia and Hungary.

Because the lottery may be a deceptive lure as regards a source of revenue for governments, some leaders in American civic affairs have campaigned vigorously against it. In fact, the lottery for New York state was strongly opposed by some of its highest officials. Why? Because, as stated in the New York Post, “the people who can least afford to spend money on the lottery are those who do. Therefore a lottery is a regressive [as opposed to a progressivea] type of taxation that is socially wrong. . . . In England the off-track betting parlors do most of their business in the poor neighborhoods. . . . Lured by the promise of something for nothing, the poor will unquestionably direct income to gambling that should be spent on essentials such as food and clothing.”​—October 3, 1966.

That this is no idle theory was proved when a strike of lottery employees stopped the lottery in Puerto Rico for ten days. During this time food sales in certain supermarkets jumped 30 percent. Obviously, poor people have more money for food when there is no lottery on which to spend their money!

That operating lotteries for revenue is a deceptive lure is the stand taken by the Tax Institute of America: “No matter how many ingenious ways we devise, sooner or later we learn with each of them that there is no . . . panacea [cure-all]. In the long run ‘painless’ methods frequently turn out to be the most painful.”

That the lottery is a deceptive lure is further seen in that it is basically unsound. Lotteries consume much manpower and yet produce no wealth; they merely distribute it from the hands of the many to the hands of the few, and that at no small cost. In some instances the “overhead” is 50 percent of the total taken in. There are but three honest and sound forms of transferring money, namely, in the form of outright gifts, in exchange for other valuable considerations and in exchange for labor.

Those who would be guided by Bible principles must learn to resist the lure of the lottery and other forms of gambling when exposed to them. These are really forms of extortion, even though the loser consents to part with his money. Duelling has long been ruled wrong, even though it may be described as killing by mutual consent. So with gambling, it is extortion by mutual consent; one wins only because another or many others lose. It is morally wrong to seek pleasure or profit at the pain or loss of others.

Yes, lotteries encourage selfishness, for each one taking part in them hopes against hope that he will win what his neighbor has put in the lottery and so it makes, in effect, each one the enemy of the rest. It is the very opposite of heeding the Scriptural counsel at 1 Corinthians 10:24: “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.” At the bottom of it is the love of money, which is a root of all sorts of injurious things, according to the apostle Paul.​—1 Tim. 6:9, 10.

No wonder that often corruption is associated with lotteries; for which reason seventy years ago it was made illegal to send lottery tickets from one state to another in the United States. Nor to be overlooked is the wretched lot of those who become compulsive gamblers; which affliction often results in much heartbreak and the committing of all kinds of crime.

Succumbing to the lure of the lottery also runs against the Scriptural principle that we should be workers. Those who succumb to the lure of the lottery would substitute “luck” for hard work. But the Bible plainly says: “If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat.”​—2 Thess. 3:10; Prov. 6:6.

Christians, therefore, while not interfering with what others choose to do, will resist the lure of the lottery if they would be pleasing to God. They will not even sell lottery tickets or accept any similar sort of employment, knowing that extortioners are barred from the Christian congregation and that being employed in such ways makes them party to extortion. They will content themselves with the fruits of productive toil and seek their pleasures in ways harmful to none.​—1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

[Footnotes]

A (mathematically) ‘progressive’ type of taxation is one that taxes according to ability to pay​—that is, the higher one’s income the higher the percentage of it that is taken by taxes.

Know Your God

Know Your God

THE king had ruled for nearly forty years, and the nation had grown and prospered under his wise administration. But now he was old, and was nearing the end of his life. In order to reaffirm the. appointment of his successor and to enlist the nation’s support of him, the king summoned all the princes and officials from throughout the land.

In time, these many leaders gathered to the capital city, Jerusalem, and aged King David gave them wise parting counsel. He encouraged them to “take care and search for all the commandments of Jehovah.” Then the king directed his attention toward the successor to the throne and, before that congregated throng, said to him:

“And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a complete heart and with a delightful soul; for all hearts Jehovah is searching, and every inclination of the thoughts he is discerning. If you search for him, he will let himself be found by you; but if you leave him, he will cast you off forever.”​—1 Chron. 28:8, 9.

What fine counsel for a father to give his son! How appropriate for David to instruct Solomon before the prominent officials of the entire nation to know God and to search for Him! It is equally appropriate that parents give similar instructions to their offspring today. But what did King David mean by saying: “Know the God of your father”? Did he simply mean that Solomon should know that his God was Jehovah, and not Molech, Baal or some other deity? What is involved in knowing God?

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF “KNOW”

The word “know” can carry a wide range of meanings. For example, a person Who had never met him might say: “Yes, I know Dwight Eisenhower. He is the former president of the United States.” On the other hand, another person who has, on numerous occasions, seen the former president might acknowledge: “No, I don’t know Mr. Eisenhower.”

In the first instance, “know” simply denoted that the speaker had knowledge of Mr. Eisenhower’s former position as president of the United States. In the latter instance, however, “know” had reference to a personal acquaintance with the former president, which the person admittedly did not have. Thus, you might know that a person exists and know the title of his position, and yet not know the person intimately as a close friend or companion. In the ancient Hebrew language spoken by King David the Hebrew word for “know” yada‘, had a similar wide range of meaning.

This can be appreciated by examining a few examples of its use. There was the time, for instance, when the high priest Eli’s sons ministered at Jehovah’s tabernacle at Shiloh. These priests were extremely bad, the Bible record saying of them: “Now the sons of Eli were base men; they knew not Jehovah.”​—1 Sam. 2:12, AS.

Although it is said, “they knew not Jehovah,” obviously these priests did know Of the God at whose tabernacle they were serving.. The Hebrew word for “know” in this instance denoted more than merely having knowledge regarding God’s name and certain facts about him. Thus, some translations render the passage, “they had no regard,” “they cared nothing for,” or, “they did not acknowledge Jehovah.” (RS, Mo, NW) The priests knew who Jehovah was, but they had not developed an appreciation of him so as to be moved to carry on his worship faithfully.

A somewhat similar use of the Hebrew word is found at 1 Kings 9:27 (Yg), which says: “Hiram sendeth in the navy his servants, shipmen knowing the sea, with servants of Solomon.” The expression “knowing the sea” did not mean that the shipmen of Hiram had only a casual knowledge of the sea, having simply heard about the sea, or perhaps only seeing it on a previous occasion. Rather, the Hebrew word here used denoted an intimate familiarity with the sea and its behavior. Thus, other translations say that the shipmen “had knowledge of the sea” or “were familiar with the sea.” AV, AS, RS, AT.

Another example in which a form of this Hebrew word refers to an intimacy or familiarity is recorded at 2 Kings 10:11. The passage reads: “Moreover, Jehu went on to strike down all who were left over of the house of Ahab in Jezreel and all his distinguished men and his acquaintances [that is, “those that he knew”] and his priests, until he had let no survivor of his remain.” Jehu did not kill all those whom Ahab had merely seen or known casually, but only his closer acquaintances. Thus, some translations say that Jehu struck down “his familiar friends.”​—RS, AT.

It is seen, therefore, that the Hebrew word for “know” can refer to a close friendship or intimate relationship. But how does this information help us to appreciate David’s instruction to his son: “Know the God of your father”? And what should it help to impress upon parents today in connection with the needs of their children?

MUCH INVOLVED IN KNOWING GOD

The foregoing assists us to appreciate that there was real significance to David’s fatherly counsel. Though at the time his son was a young man, he already knew of God. Solomon had access to about one-third of the inspired Hebrew Scriptures, and it is only reasonable to believe that David had seen to it that he was acquainted with these writings about Jehovah. So in giving his counsel to ‘know God,’ David meant much more than for Solomon to know a few fundamental facts about God, such as his name, his being from everlasting to everlasting, and so forth.

Rather, David desired that Solomon come to know Jehovah God as a real, living Person. God should be much more to him than just a name or a doctrine that is read from a book. Jehovah is not merely a word that has been committed to paper, or a figment of man’s imagination. He is a powerful, invisible Being to whom one can draw close in prayer, and to whom one wisely renders worship and obedience. High priest Eli’s sons failed to appreciate this; “they knew not Jehovah,” and were cut off for disregarding His instructions. (1 Sam. 2:34) David, on the other hand, wanted his son Solomon always to acknowledge and have respect for Jehovah God and His laws.

Just as the shipmen of Hiram knew or “were familiar with the sea,” so David desired that Solomon become familiar with Jehovah and form an intimate acquaintance with His ways. Such a familiarity is not obtained overnight; it requires time.

Persons who really “know” one another generally have similar interests, enjoy close association with one another and are on friendly terms. It was that way with those who knew King Ahab. Undoubtedly they enjoyed the same way of life, had similar interests and possessed desires similar to those of wicked Ahab, and for this reason Jehu sought to cut them off. Certainly the many persons who simply heard him speak in public or heard others talk about him were not the object of Jehu’s sword. They did not really “know” Ahab; they were not “his familiar friends.”

King David wanted his son Solomon to know God in the sense of becoming God’s intimate friend. This meant that Jehovah’s interests must become Solomon’s interests, his behavior an imitation of God’s exalted ways, and his work that which was directed and approved by Jehovah. This could be achieved by learning of God’s requirements and purposes and letting the knowledge penetrate his heart. After learning the will of Jehovah, he must do it. And, too, Solomon needed to keep in regular communication with God through prayer. Only in this way could he really come to know Jehovah.

A TREASURED RELATIONSHIP

It is similar today. We must read the Bible and let what God says there penetrate our hearts, so that we have a deep feeling about it and so that it motivates us, guiding our lives. We must become responsive to the counsel contained in the Bible, not holding certain reservations about it, ignoring what it says, for example, about worldly associations, marrying an unbeliever, and so forth. (1 Cor. 15:33; 7:39) Further, we need to share God’s company through personal prayer. Only in this way will one be accepted as an intimate acquaintance of God. (Ps. 25:14) And what a privileged relationship that is!

It is, therefore, one that should be guarded and nurtured, for close acquaintances can again become strangers. This occurs frequently in the marriage relationship. Couples who once were very close have often been noted to drift apart, and have even said: “We live in the same house, but we are complete strangers.” Why does this happen? It is principally because couples no longer discuss matters with each other, they lack concern about what the other is doing and they fail to share common interests any longer. One’s relationship with God can deteriorate through similar neglect.

Solomon is a prominent example. At first he heeded his father’s advice and came to know God, perhaps better than most men before him or since. He was a remarkable king, and God used him to write a considerable part of the Scriptures​—the books of Ecclesiastes and The Song of Solomon, most of Proverbs and a psalm or two. Yet, in his latter years Solomon neglected to follow the wise instructions of his God and married women who served false gods. As a result, he was influenced by them and developed a harshness peculiar to false worshipers. Relations with his people were ruined, and he drifted apart from his God.​—Deut. 7:3, 4; 1 Ki. 11:1-11; 12:4; Neh. 13:26.

Never let this happen to you! After learning about Jehovah God by studying his Word and regularly associating with persons that discuss it, allow His fine qualities to sink into your heart. Then show that you have truly come to know God by imitating his love, kindness, goodness, long-suffering and other wonderful qualities. Regularly approach him in prayer, and share in the work of ministering to others, which he has entrusted to his friends. Then jealously guard your precious relationship with God,​—Gal. 5:22, 23; Heb. 13:15, 16.

HELPING YOUR CHILDREN TO KNOW GOD

If you are a parent, it is vital that you also encourage your children to draw close to God by serving him. Notice how King David showed the close association between knowing God and serving him, saying: “And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a complete heart and with a delightful soul.” Yes, for youth really to know God it is necessary for them to serve him. Therefore, as godly David impressed this fact upon his son, you parents should do likewise.

It is not only a matter of seeing that youngsters know basic facts about God. They must also be taught the significance of the information. It has to be presented to them in such a way that they are moved to want to serve God, even “with a complete heart and with a delightful soul.”

For example, merely to have your children know that one of the major attributes of God is wisdom is not sufficient. They need to be shown why and in what way God’s laws and instructions are wise and are for their personal good. The lesson has to be brought home to them so that they can appreciate it. Examples need to be cited demonstrating the disastrous results of rejecting God’s wise counsel, and of the benefits of following it.

In time this careful guidance will pay off. (Prov. 22:6) That Jehovah is a God of wisdom will not simply be a fact known, but it will be a personal conviction of your youngster. With a delightful soul he will refrain from bad associations, drunkenness, fornication, and other such conduct, because he appreciates that God’s wise counsel was given for his own personal benefit. He will view God’s laws as a protection, not as a collection of rules given to take the pleasure out of living.

When this attitude develops within one, he does not simply know about God, but he begins to form an intimate relationship with God, Jehovah God becomes a real, living Person to him, someone who is regularly consulted in prayer and whose interests are kept close to the heart. And O what a treasured relationship that is! There are so many benefits to be realized by truly knowing God, by being his friend.

Now, during the present world trouble, how often Jehovah proves to be a God of Comfort! (2 Cor. 1:3, 4) In the near future, how grand it will be to know Him as Protector, when he preserves his people through the end of this wicked system of things, even as he saved Noah and his family through the Deluge! (2 Pet. 2:5; 3:5-7) Then, what a joy truly to come to know Jehovah as Healer, when he cures all physical infirmities and stops the onslaughts of old age and death! (Ps. 103:3; Rev. 21:3, 4) Afterward, what ecstasy God’s friends will realize as they become acquainted with their God in the role of Resurrector of the dead!​—Acts 24:15.

O there are so many reasons why you should now come to know Jehovah God! So do not hesitate! Take the necessary steps immediately to know God.

“God is love.” (1 John 4:8) “The Rock, perfect is his activity . . . A God of faithfulness, with whom there is no injustice; righteous and upright is he.” (Deut. 32:4) “O the depth of God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge!” (Rom. 11:33) “Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth, preserving loving-kindness for thousands, pardoning error and transgression and sin, but by no means will he give exemption from punishment.”​—Ex. 34:6, 7.

Faith Required to Please God

Faith Required to Please God

“Without faith it is impossible to please him well, for he that approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.”​—Heb. 11:6.

1. (a) What does God’s Word the Bible say would increase in our day, and so, what would be waning? (b) What recent occurrences bear this out?

God’s Word the Bible tells us regarding the days in which we are living: “Because of the increasing of lawlessness the love of the greater number will cool off.” (Matt. 24:12) We observe the trueness of this statement and the waning of faith among people in Christendom. This was substantiated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation when they made known, in releasing the figures for 1963, that the number of serious crimes in America had risen 40 percent since 1958. This is five times the population increase of 8 percent. Youths under eighteen accounted for 50.4 percent of the arrests in the suburban areas for serious crimes. J. Edgar Hoover, the F.B.I. director, estimated the annual cost of crime in the United States conservatively at twenty-seven billion dollars ($27,000,000,000).a Additionally, there have been increases in juvenile delinquency. Immorality and divorces for other causes than Scriptural in the United States, but in other nations as well. In Sweden, which has a church-state government, the American Weekly reported, “of every ten Swedish women married, seven have conceived at least one child before going to the altar.”

2. What warnings have been given to protect faith?

2 Perhaps one of the most outstanding causes is the manner in which people’s minds are duped by unscientific mouthings, just because they are issued by prominent people. In making reference to just such a circumstance the Christian apostle Paul warned in his letter to the congregation in Colossae: “Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry you off as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ.” And on another occasion the same writer warned a young man: “Guard what is laid up in trust with you, turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy and from the contradictions of the falsely called ‘knowledge.’ For making a show of such knowledge some have deviated from the faith.”​—Col. 2:8; 1 Tim. 6:20, 21.

3. What do we learn from 2 Timothy 3 as to what may be expected in our time?

3 It is interesting to examine the occurrences and conditions in this, the twentieth century, in view of prophetic disclosures recorded nineteen hundred years ago. The Bible foretold the difficult times prevailing, that there would be moral degeneration and breakdown in which people would love pleasures more than Almighty God, and that they would be covenant breakers, along with many other nefarious practices. Here is what Paul wrote to the young man Timothy about circumstances that would occur in the “last days”: “Know this, that in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God, having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power; and from these turn away.” Then the record discloses that those having faith and living devotedly would be persecuted; and, to verify again about wickedness increasing, it tells that others would be misled: “All those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted, But wicked men and impostors will advance from bad to worse, misleading and being misled.”​—2 Tim. 3:1-5, 12, 13.

4. What are some reasons why many people abandon faith in God and His Word?

4 Some have abandoned the Bible and faith in it because of Christendom’s ridiculous explanation of what they say is contained therein, such as the doctrine of hellfire, and their blaming God for wickedness, wars and inquisitions, On the other hand, some persons object to the purity of law and the manner in which the Bible upholds righteous principles, while they desire to gratify their lusts of the flesh and greed for money, power, pleasures and immorality. Instead of doing what is right, they set the Bible aside and follow their own ideas and philosophy of life. Others find that the Bible points out too vividly that the requirement to do God’s will includes associating with ministers who are energetically engaged in the preaching of the Gospel. This is too much of an imposition on their time, and so they prefer to take the course of least resistance and the one of conformity with social practices of “this world.” Faith is not a quality that is. the possession of all people, nor is it the desire of many.​—2 Thess. 3:2.

5. Why will we not expect the majority to have faith?

5 It should be understood that not a majority will accept the Bible and follow in the footsteps of Christ Jesus the Son of God, doing so faithfully and out of the love in their heart and rendering sacred service to Almighty God, manifesting love for their neighbors. It is true that only a minority will accept the righteous decrees as set forth in God’s Word the Bible and follow them. This is shown in Jesus’ own words when he said: “Narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.” It does not mean that the road is unavailable, but that most people are not looking for it. In making a contrast to this pattern, Jesus also said: “Broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it.” This constitutes following the road of least resistance, following in conformity with nationalism and filling one’s time and life with other things, wasting one’s time and effort.​—Matt. 7:14, 13.

6. Who will manifest faith? What will they do?

6 There is a minority of faith keepers known as Jehovah’s witnesses in the earth who have explicit confidence in God’s Word and have dedicated their lives to doing God’s will, and God has “purified their hearts by faith.” This is in concurrence with Jesus’ words and expressions, He recommended: “Exert yourselves vigorously to get in through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will seek to get in but will not be able.” Why not? Because they have not placed Almighty God and their love for him first in their hearts.​—Acts 15:9; Luke 13:24.

FAITH

7. What is faith?

7 Faith means to have fidelity or allegiance as a result of the promises of God. It is defined best in the apostle Paul’s words in his letter to the Hebrews: “Faith is the assured expectation of things hoped for, the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld.” Faith must be real, alive, and be established firmly in belief that the true God is Jehovah. It engenders explicit confidence in his promised reward to those who seek him.-Heb. 11:1.

8, 9. (a) Is faith an inherent quality? (b) What is the difference between faith and credulity? (c) What must faith be free from?

8 Faith is not an inherent quality, but it must be acquired, and this is successfully accomplished through a diligent study of God’s Word, the Bible. In progressive study, a deep love for the Bible and for its Author as well as for his Son Jesus Christ develops. There is “one spirit one Lord, one faith . . . one God and Father of all persons, who is over all and through all and in all.”​—Eph. 4:4-6.

9 Faith must not be confused with the credulity that is so prevalent today. The fealty of a Christian cannot be diluted with credulity even in the slightest degree, such as we see being done by peoples today who express belief and loyalty to various religious organizations, be they of pagandom or of Christendom. From observation it can be seen that there are varieties of “faiths,” incompatible one with the other, besides being out of harmony with God’s Word. This in itself shows the importance and need of seeking the genuine Christian faith with a firm foundation based upon Jehovah God the Creator of the universe and his Son Jesus Christ. The same idea is emphasized by the apostle Paul in writing to the congregation at Thessalonica, where he shows the need to be free of gullibility as he asks the brothers to carry on in prayer, “that we may be delivered from harmful and wicked men, for faith is not a possession of all people.” How important it is, then, to acquire and build faith and not to accept the theories and Opinions of men and systems of society that would destroy it! (2 Thess. 3:2) Faith cannot be diluted within a body of Christians so as to accept diversified beliefs. There can be only one faith based on the teachings of the true God and of his Son Jesus Christ. Such unadulterated fidelity is possessed by an organization directed by Jehovah God, namely, the New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses.

10. What oneness of expression do Jehovah’s witnesses disclose, and why is freeness from division of thought so important?

10 On many occasions a minister of Jehovah’s witnesses, when sharing in the field ministry, calling on the people at their doors, meets a householder who remarks: “Oh, you sound just like the last one of Jehovah’s witnesses that was here.” Perhaps later he will hear a similar remark: “You Jehovah’s witnesses all sound alike.” We are happy that this is the case; this is a good sign. Otherwise we could not be an organization possessing Jehovah’s spirit, which results in oneness of thought, purpose and function as recommended so well at 1 Corinthians 1:10: “Now I exhort you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that you should all speak in agreement, and that there should not be divisions among you, but that you may be fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought.” Obviously, then, with complete unity of thinking and expression, one faith will prevail.

11. Why cannot Christendom’s course be pleasing to God? What amount of faithfulness is required?

11 In Christendom faith has been watered down and discounted and loyalty is not required on the part of members. Fundamentally, without much faith or even little faith, it is impossible for an individual to obtain God’s favor. This can be seen by the apostle Paul’s words addressed to the Hebrews: “Without faith it is impossible to please him well, for he that approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Heb. 11:6) Actually there is no degree of faith, such as fifty percent, sixty percent, or even ninety-five percent, as there is no allowance for anything but one hundred percent faithfulness in order to have God’s approval. It is of interest to note that many men of old were named in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews because of the manifestation of such one-hundred-percent trust.

12. (a) Upon what is faith predicated, and how can it be strengthened? (b) How can faith be obtained and then demonstrated?

12 To evaluate our faith to see whether it is weak or strong, based on a foundation true and firm, we must use the measuring rod of faith, God’s Word the Bible. Compliance with and obedience to God’s standards are essential. Paul mentioned how apostleship was predicated on obedience to God’s Word and a display of faith respecting His name. To the Romans he mentioned the importance of “an interchange of encouragement among you, by each one through the other’s faith, both yours and mine,” that his and their faith might be more firmly established. The faith we possess can be demonstrated by the words we speak, yes, the word of faith that we preach: “With the heart one exercises faith for righteousness, but with the mouth one makes public declaration for salvation.” Profoundly reassuring are Paul’s words on this when he stated further: “None that rests his faith on him will be disappointed.” The question arises as to how one can initially secure faith or establish it fundamentally and basically. “How will they call on him in whom they have not put faith? How, in turn, will they put faith in him of whom they have not heard? How, in turn, will they hear without someone to preach?” This draws to our attention that faith can initially be established by hearing a minister of God. Truly, then, God will send his ministers forth to preach so multitudes can build up their faith as the result of their hearing the Word of God, the source of faith. One way by which we can measure our faith is the manner in which we are willing to expend ourselves in the Christian ministry as we manifest our faith by our works.​—Rom. 1:12; 10:10, 11, 14; Jas. 2:18.

13. How can persons newly interested in the Bible build up their faith?

13 Newly interested persons or those just beginning to share in the ministry can depend on persons who are ‘firm in the faith.’ Those that are strong are able to “bear the weaknesses of those not strong.” Let us go further: “Let each of us please his neighbor in what is good for his upbuilding,” which in this instance would be his faith. At the same time this statement makes it plain that even those that are strong, to maintain adamant faith, must keep active and keep sharing in the ministerial work. Upon what may they depend so as to maintain their faith and maturity? These words reveal upon what: “For all the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.” So truly God supplies the basis for our hope and faith. Those who have faith can keep it alive, just as Paul illustrated: “Now I myself am also persuaded about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are also full of goodness, as you have been filled with all knowledge, and that you can also admonish one another. However, I am writing you the more outspokenly on some points, as if reminding you again, because of the undeserved kindness given to me from God.” The interchange of faith based on God’s Word, by the expression of it among one another, will be upbuilding and will be strengthening against the endeavors of opposers who present contrary thoughts and bring pressures in an intensified manner in order to break down the moral fiber of faith.​—Rom. 15:1, 2, 4, 14, 15.

14. Why should we let God talk to us, and what caution does he give against other sources of information?

14 It is readily discerned, then, that knowledge of Jehovah God and His Word must be possessed in order to have true assuredness. To get acquainted With him we must let him talk to us; not orally, of course, but through the written pages of the Bible. This is the only basic source of information whereby we can know Jehovah. In this regard the psalmist cautions us against other sources, in these words: “Do not put your trust in nobles, nor in the son of earthling man to whom no salvation belongs.” How sound this advice is we appreciate when we read concerning man: “His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground; in that day his thoughts do perish.” To trust in men, then, would mean finally to perish with them and their futile teachings.​—Ps. 146:3, 4.

EXAMPLES OF FAITH

15, 16. (a) What kind of faith did Moses display? (b) Who were some others that manifested strong faith, according to Biblical record?

15 It should be borne in mind that faith is not a gift, but, rather, it is a quality that must be cultivated. Many men of old displayed exemplary faith. They were ordinary humans just as we are; so it was necessary for them to cultivate and establish it. Did it not take great faith on Moses’ part to speak these courageous words to the fleeing Israelites: “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah, which he will perform for you today. For the Egyptians whom you do see today you will not see again, no, never again. Jehovah will himself fight for you, and you yourselves will be silent”? (Ex. 14:13, 14) Then, beyond this, what faith it took for Moses to lead more than two million people across a vast wilderness when there was little food and a scarcity of water for so great a multitude of people! But he trusted in Jehovah and was doing as commanded.

16 One could enumerate many Bible accounts about those possessing faith, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, David and others. Truly theirs was a genuine faith. They were men of great faith.​—2 Pet. 2:5; Heb. 11:7, 8, 17, 24-27, 32.

17, 18. (a) Why will Jesus not find faith in Christendom? (b) Among whom will he find it, and what will be their frame of mind regarding faith?

17 What about today? What type of faith can we expect to find in the “last days” in which we are living? “When the Son of man arrives, will he really find the faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) It is obvious that real faith cannot be found in the religions of Christendom, because of their close relationship with the political elements of the world, the schemes of human leaders, the schemes for peace and the schemes of the world, instead of placing confidence in God’s kingdom under Christ Jesus.

18 Those putting their trust in the organizations of Christendom are extremely slow to put their trust in God’s kingdom. However, faith in God’s kingdom and trust in his protective power can be seen in the New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses. Let all lovers of God and doers of his will continue to cultivate true faith and not be lax about keeping it strong. We must not permit materialism, nationalism or other outside interests to encroach upon us so as to weaken our faith. We should be of the frame of mind expressed by Christ’s disciples at Luke 17:5: “Give us more faith.”

[Footnotes]

New York Times, July 21, 1964, page 17.

Firm in Faith Despite Opposition

Firm in Faith Despite Opposition

“Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are.”​—2 Cor. 13:5.

1. (a) What questions may we ask ourselves? (b) How was Paul’s faith exhibited?

IT IS entirely in order for us to ask ourselves is our faith comparable to that of meek but courageous Moses? or of persevering Paul? Consider the case of Paul, who endured many dangers on behalf of his ministry. He was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, traveled under dangerous circumstances, in danger in the wilderness, in dangers at sea, in hunger, in thirst, and many times cold. Even after their having cultivated strong faith Paul still admonished Christians: “Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are.” He thus illustrated further that Christians must vigilantly examine themselves to maintain loyal status with God.​—2 Cor. 13:5; 11:25-27.

2. What tests of faith may we expect, and what examples do we have of faithful courage?

2 When we look through the Bible record it is readily discerned that faithful men of pre-Christian times as well as those in the early Christian congregation nineteen hundred years ago were confronted with opposition, false arrest, nationalism and many other similar predicaments. Yet they withstood these trials fearlessly without compromising with the adversary. Frequently false charges were brought against individuals. Some were incarcerated! Consider how Joseph in the land of Egypt spent two years in prison charged with a crime of which he was not guilty. (Gen. 39:7-20) Peter and John and the Other apostles were arrested because they continued to preach the word without letup.(Acts 4, 5) These circumstances were not limited to the days of the early Christian congregation. True Christian witnesses of Jehovah have had their faith tested similarly in the last few decades in many ways.

SPAIN

3. What example of faith do we have in Spain, and what was the result as far as the preaching is concerned?

3 On an occasion in Spain in the year 1952 Jehovah’s witnesses were under surveillance. They conducted a Bible study in a certain house where they had gone repeatedly. In one instance secret police were waiting for them. They were arrested, their homes were searched and they were put into prison. In addition to being held, they had to stand abuse and threats, and then with the same abusive speech were warned of the consequences if they continued in the preaching of the good news. However, staunch faith was exhibited, since at that time there were 121 of Jehovah’s witnesses sharing in the ministry in Spain, and they continued preaching. In the year 1966 there were 4,302 ministers. Yes, they obeyed “God as ruler rather than men.”​—Acts 5:29.

GERMANY

4. (a) What persecution confronted the German ministers in the 1920’s and very early 1930’s, and how was persecution overcome? (b) What decree did Hitler issue against Jehovah’s witnesses in Germany after he came to power?

4 The ministerial work of Jehovah’s witnesses in Germany during the 1920’s and up to 1933 met with much opposition. In 1931 and 1932 alone there were 2,335 legal actions against Jehovah’s witnesses. Through perseverance, the persecution was overcome, as shown by the fact that during the years 1919-1933 forty-eight million Scriptural booklets and seventy-seven million copies of The Golden Age (now Awake!) were distributed. However, persecution reached a climax when Hitler came to power and, in his own words, stated: “These so-called ‘Earnest Bible Students’ are trouble makers . . . I consider them quacks; I do not tolerate that German Catholics be besmirched in such a manner; I dissolve the ‘Earnest Bible Students’ in Germany, their property I dedicate to the people’s welfare; I will have all their literature confiscated.” The Society’s property at Magdeburg was seized and the government seized and carried away and burned over $25,000 worth of literature, books and booklets. However, in spite of all this opposition, the faithful Christians continued preaching underground.

5. How was the compromise presented to the German Christians comparable to the test offered to Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego?

5 During the Hitler regime many were told that, if they would just sign a paper renouncing their position as Jehovah’s witnesses, they could go free and escape with their lives. Some failed, but most recalled the plight of the three Hebrews who were threatened with being thrown into the fiery furnace if they would not bow down to Nebuchadnezzar’s huge obelisk on the plain of Dura when the music sounded. Upon their refusal to share in image worship the king’s wrath was directed at them. Their firm faith was manifested in the answer given the king: “O Nebuchadnezzar, we are under no necessity in this regard to say back a word to you. If it is to be, our God whom we are serving is able to rescue us. Out of the burning fiery furnace and out of your hand, O king, he will rescue us. But if not, let it become known to you, O king, that your gods are not the ones we are serving, and the image of gold that you have set up we will not worship.” Jehovah did deliver them because, even when they were cast into the overheated furnace, we are told, “the fire had had no power over their bodies, and not a hair of their head had been singed, and even their mantles had not been changed and the smell of fire itself had not come onto them.” Similar endeavors on the part of the enemy to accomplish compromise were rebuffed by the same kind of irrepressible faith by faithful Christians in Germany.​—Dan. 3:16-18, 27.

CANADA

6. What happened in Canada during the 1940’s?

6 Not only did Christians encounter a critical situation in Germany. In Canada in the early 1940’s the Watchtower magazine was banned, and here too during World War II much persecution and imprisonment were experienced. In the Province of Quebec tremendous abuse and harassment were experienced, but this was overcome by long, hard battles through the lower courts, ultimately to the Supreme Court of Canada.

7. What charges were placed against the Witnesses in Quebec in 1949, with what resulting persecution?

7 Charges of sedition were brought against the Witnesses in Quebec in 1949. Besides misrepresentation and mobbing, they were hounded throughout the Province and systematically hunted down, falsely arrested, and held in vermin-infested and disease-ridden jails, with exorbitant bail demands. But such summons are not new. Paul was arraigned in court and charged similarly, that we “found this man [Paul] a pestilent fellow and stirring up seditions among all the Jews,” when he was doing the same thing as the Canadian ministers, namely, telling others about God’s kingdom.​—Acts 24:5.

8. What resulted in Canada by persistent preaching and championing of freedom?

8 Court cases and persecution continued in Canada for several years until a favorable decision of a 5-4 majority of the Supreme Court was rendered on October 6, 1953. With this victory eight hundred cases were dismissed, as the result of enduring harassment and distressing treatment in their continued preaching in upholding of freedom of worship. Just as Paul would not compromise by stopping his ministry, neither did the faithful Canadian Witnesses, but, instead, they maintained integrity and defeated persecution through faith.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

9-11. (a) Was any persecution experienced in the United States? (b) How were the children of Jehovah’s witnesses affected? (c) What was the final outcome as a result of no compromise?

9 In the United States, in many areas, much opposition and uncalled-for persecution were brought against Jehovah’s witnesses. In Texas and Oklahoma mob violence was excited against Jehovah’s witnesses. In Plainfield and Jersey City, New Jersey, southwest Pennsylvania, Griffin, Georgia, to name only a very few places, the Witnesses were imprisoned for preaching the Gospel. Long court battles ensued and opposition was finally overcome by keeping mindful of God’s Word and maintaining strong faith.

10 Flag-salute issues arose, bringing persecution against children of Jehovah’s witnesses. As a result of their maintaining integrity to Jehovah and not bowing down, many of these children were deprived of education in the public schools by being expelled for not saluting the flag.

11 Numerous court cases resulted throughout the United States as municipalities endeavored to enforce peddling ordinances against the ministerial work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In all these cases, along with the flag-salute cases, freedom of worship was gained by persistent pursuit of justice through the courts of the United States, resulting in favorable decisions in the Supreme Court.

12. What persecution resulted to young ministers of draft age?

12 During the years 1940-1946, which included World War II, some 4,300 young American ministers were arrested and incarcerated, receiving sentences up to five years while endeavoring to maintain their status as ministers. The Selective Service Act specifically exempts ministers from military service, but these faithful ministers of Jehovah’s witnesses were denied that exemption. Many, after serving one sentence and being released, were soon rearrested and sent back to prison for a second term. Nevertheless, these young ministers maintained their integrity and even took advantage of the period of time they were in prison by following scheduled Bible study programs, continually building up their faith as ministers. Yes, they even preached, as opportunity presented itself, to guards and others with whom they came in contact.

OTHER TRIALS

13. (a) Where else did persecution occur? (b) Describe the faithful course taken by a sister back of the Iron Curtain, and with what Scriptural example and counsel did she conform?

13 Severe persecutions and bans occurred in such countries as Italy, Greece, the Philippine Islands and many other countries around the earth. In all instances the opposers endeavored to intimidate Jehovah’s witnesses, tried to break their allegiance and fidelity to Jehovah. A splendid example of faithfulness was manifested by a sister brought into a community court on the other side of the Iron Curtain. The presiding functionary finished his threat and the women present shouted, “Those enemies of the people should be driven into the sea.” This denouncement did not deter her one iota, because she quickly replied: “I am dedicated to serve the God who rules the universe. I will never desert him under any conditions, If you want to, you can starve me to death, but I will not abandon my faith nor will I make any compromise in the matter of faith.” Perhaps she was familiar with Paul’s words: “I am convinced that neither death nor life . . . nor governments will be able to separate us from God’s love.” What faith she displayed! Result? She was permitted to leave, and no further action was taken against her. (Rom. 8:38, 39) Even under severe circumstances, we can see, trustworthiness is required, and certainly Jehovah’s blessings were upon that sister, as she did not “become fearful of those who kill the body.”​—Matt. 10:28.

14. How may opportunities of compromise present themselves as far as blood transfusion is concerned, and what advice is followed?

14 The faith and strength of Jehovah’s witnesses are frequently tried in conjunction with the taking of blood transfusions. Many times relatives or friends, not having an understanding of God’s commands, will bring severe pressure, endeavoring to cause the ailing or injured Witness to lose faith in God’s Word and his command to abstain from blood. However, a witness of Jehovah will firmly cling to the counsel as stated at Acts 15:29: “Keep yourselves free from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication. If you carefully keep yourselves from these things, you will prosper. Good health to you!” No compromise can be made on an issue such as this even if obedient Christians are ridiculed and taunted by relatives or associates.

15. Why would it not be proper for one to have employment related to modern Babylon’s organization?

15 Tests of faith may come upon Christians whose desire it is to remain free from Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. One’s secular occupation may take him into the churches of Christendom, perhaps by reason of being a contractor, or working for a contractor whose main business is to construct church buildings or, for that matter, serving as a janitor in such a building. How ironic it would be for a Christian, admonishing others in accordance with the words of Revelation 18:4: “Get out of her [Babylon], my people, if you do not want to share with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of her plagues,” at the same time to be a part of her because of his employment!

16. What other problems may arise due to employment, and what should the Christian do about it?

16 If one were engaged in making war implements or working for a company whose main production was within this category, one could be placing his Christian status in jeopardy. It is recognized that under such a situation one could not help but be taking a course contrary to God’s Word, which admonishes Christians not to take blood or to shed blood in any way. Taking such an uncompromising course may bring ridicule by fellow workers or employers, or even loss of employment. Nevertheless, the Christian will be mindful of the fact that he will have no part in wars, or war efforts of the nations. Jesus stated: “You must not murder.” (Matt. 5:21) Furthermore, in corroborating this principle, Paul’s statement in 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 is that we cannot be unequally yoked with such practices that are definitely a part of this faithless world. If a Christian finds himself in such a position, the wise course would be to seek other employment.

17. (a) What circumstances confronted Peter and John when authorities told them to abstain from preaching? (b) What should twentieth-century ministers do?

17 Similar situations may arise in regard to the ministerial work of a Christian. For example, if Caesar forbade one to preach this good news of the Kingdom, Christians are just as resolute about the matter as the apostles were nineteen hundred years ago when confronted with a decree of the ruling authorities, at the instance of the religious leaders, to stop speaking on the basis of Jesus’ name. Think of it! This was even after they had been flogged and then warned to preach no more and then let go. Integrity was maintained unwaveringly. When all the apostles left the court of the Sanhedrin they were “rejoicing because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of his name. And every day in the temple and from house to house they continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ.” This action was not in defiance of the ruling element, but it was a staunch obedience to Christ’s command to declare the good news of the Kingdom throughout all the world for a witness to all the nations, recognizing that upon its completion the end shall come. (Acts 5:41, 42; Matt. 24:14) Many Christians have lost their positions because of their staunch stand taken in preaching this good news when they have been arrested falsely and thrown into jail. Consequently, twentieth-century Christians must maintain their position of integrity fervently, not withholding from Caesar the things that belong to him, but, nevertheless, not compromising in their faithfulness to God to continue preaching throughout the world. In fact, they are just as resolute as all the apostles were, regardless of the nation in which they happen to reside, and they will continue to preach even though bans are imposed upon their work, yes, even if it means imprisonment and cruel treatment.

RESOLUTIONS FOR FAITHFUL MINISTRY

18. How many resolutions were adopted between 1922-1928, against whom were they directed and where were they distributed?

18 During the period of 1922-1928 seven courageous resolutions were adopted and distributed throughout the greater part of the world, showing that the judgments that were proclaimed in the seven plagues described in the sixteenth chapter of Revelation were upon and against modern-day Babylon the Great, as well as the political elements that she supports.

19. (a) What resolution was adopted in 1963, by how many, and what were the declarations incorporated in it? (b) Why does this take courage?

19 As recently as 1963 a strong resolution was adopted by a grand total of 454,977 in the Around-the-World “Everlasting Good News” Assemblies of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In addition to incorporating in their joint Resolution the seven plagues mentioned above, the assemblers adamantly resolved to be immovable on the side of the Messianic kingdom of Jehovah God, to cultivate the fruitage of the spirit, to carry on pure and undefiled worship and to fight against “wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places” until the Satanic “ruler of this world” and his demons are abyssed. The Resolution further stated: “We will continue to declare to all peoples without partiality the ‘everlasting good news’ concerning God’s Messianic kingdom and concerning his judgments, which are like plagues to his enemies but which will be executed for the liberation of all persons who desire to worship God the Creator acceptably.” It takes courage and boldness to take such a firm position against nationalistic worship of the political state and against the worship associated with international organizations for world peace and security such as the United Nations with its 119 members. Such a valiant position requires indomitable faith such as that manifested by Peter and John as well as so many Other early Christians.​—Acts 4:19-21.

20. (a) As a result of following a faithful course, what may Christians expect? (b) What are some of the things that may jeopardize unswerving faith?

20 It is readily discernible that the faith of the apostles and others Was severely tried even to imprisonment and/​or death. True Christian ministers today should be equally confident and have complete assurance of Jehovah’s protection. It is true that some have not put up a hard fight for the faith and have fallen victim to the intimidation of political organizations, relatives and friends, as well as being unable to overcome the ensnaring allure of materialism.

ENCROACHMENTS UPON FAITH

21. What subtle things could disturb one’s faith?

21 An initial step toward unfaithfulness is one’s beginning to shrink back. This backward course can begin very subtly, making it extremely dangerous. It could be a slowing-down process or a refusing to meet the challenge of new truths. It could be due to laziness, or self-denial may be involved. A specific warning was issued about unfaithfulness because of being deceived by reason of those that rely on their own judgment and lose sight of relying wholly and exclusively upon Jehovah. Jesus’ brother and disciple, Jude, makes specific reference to such persons: “Certain men have slipped in who have long ago been appointed by the Scriptures to this judgment, ungodly men, turning the undeserved kindness of our God into an excuse for loose conduct and proving false to our only Owner and Lord, Jesus Christ.” (Jude 4) We are admonished by such words coupled with the warning that wolves would creep in, appearing in sheep’s covering but being false. (Matt. 7:15) Considering that such was applicable nineteen hundred years ago, we know it is also prophetic of circumstances that would arise in these “last days.”

22. How could what we read impair faith?

22 In addition to all of this, a person’s faith can be weakened by what he reads and takes into his mind, dwelling upon “higher criticism,” relying on worldly philosophers. It should be remembered that, when we are reading a book, the author of the book becomes one’s teacher, and for this reason great care should be taken in selecting reading matter. When the source of such information is from persons outside of Jehovah’s organization or from those that may have crept into the organization for injurious purposes, such would be a good time or occasion to heed Paul’s counsel to the young man Timothy, when he said: “Continue in the things that you learned and were persuaded to believe, knowing from what persons you learned them and that from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through the faith in connection with Christ Jesus.” (2 Tim. 3:14-16) If there is the slightest infringement on your faith by those in this old system of things, or from any source, free your minds from such shackles and always remember that Jehovah the true God and Christ Jesus his Son are our teachers.

REQUIRED FAITH

23. In his letter to the Thessalonians, what did Paul advise regarding faith?

23 Exercising firmness and steadfastness as we carry out the will of Jehovah will keep our faith strong. We are advised by Paul: “Stand firm and maintain your hold on the traditions that you were taught, whether it was through a verbal message or through a letter of ours. Moreover, may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and gave everlasting comfort and good hope by means of undeserved kindness, comfort your hearts and make you firm in every good deed and word.” These words are live words, having been given as counsel to the congregation nineteen hundred years ago and being just as valuable and apropos now. “The Lord is faithful, and he will make you firm and keep you from the wicked one. . . . May the Lord continue directing your hearts successfully into the love of God.” (2 Thess. 2:15-17; 3:3-5) Just as it was important for the Christian nineteen hundred years ago to stay close to Jehovah’s organization, so it remains vital to do so today. How?

24. What are we to be busy doing now, and what is necessary to please God?

24 Being busy with the declaration of the good news will give us fortitude and encouragement. We read at 1 Corinthians 15:58: “My beloved brothers, become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.” Labor of the ministerial work, labors of love among fellow Christians, will increase one’s faith and enhance integrity. We can readily see that such faith, namely, faith only in Jehovah, will give us strength to withstand the encroachments and intimidations of enemy forces. Bear always in mind, “without faith it is impossible to please him well, for he that approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.”​—Heb. 11:6.

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