The Watchtower, January 15, 1969

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The Watchtower — January 15, 1969

Source: jw.org

Contents

Why Has God Permitted Wickedness Until Our Day?

How Long Will Wickedness Continue?

The Faith That Pleases God

Are You Ready for the Responsibilities of a Baptized Witness?

A Magazine Found in the Street

Jehovah Has Given Me Godly Joy

Christian Weddings Should Reflect Reasonableness

Your Vacation in 1969

International Conventions Planned For 1969

Questions From Readers

Announcements

Why Has God Permitted Wickedness Until Our Day?

THROUGHOUT all of man’s history there has been much wickedness. And today, no matter where you look in the world, there is bloodshed, crime, hatred and immorality. All too often it is the innocent, decent people who suffer from the wicked acts of others. They may be victims of violence, perhaps losing their homes, loved ones or even their own lives. You may or may not have experienced such things personally. Even if you have not, you likely have gone through things that have caused mental suffering, experiences such as injustice, unkindness, being cheated or deceived.

Why has God permitted such wickedness until our day? There are a number of reasons, but to understand those reasons properly we need to examine the issues raised at the time of the first rebellion. You have likely read the account of this in the Bible in the third chapter of Genesis. Let us consider, then, the real meaning of these events.

Briefly, this is what occurred: Jehovah told man that his life depended upon obedience to his Creator, and that disobedience would result in death. (Gen. 2:17) God’s adversary, Satan the Devil, contradicted this clear statement. He told Adam’s wife that the human pair could disobey and still, “You positively will not die.” He further claimed that such disobedience would actually improve matters for them, causing their eyes to be opened, and that they would “be like God, knowing good and bad.” (Gen. 3:4, 5) Now, what was involved in this rebellious action of Satan?

THE ISSUES AT STAKE

A number of issues or vital questions were raised. First, Satan called into question the truthfulness of God. In effect, he called God a liar, and that with regard to a matter of life and death. Second, he questioned man’s dependence on his Creator for continued life and happiness. He claimed that neither man’s life nor his ability to govern his affair with success depended upon obedience to Jehovah. He argued that man could act independently of his Creator and be like God, deciding for himself what is right or wrong, good or bad. Third, by arguing against God’s stated law, he in effect claimed that God’s way of ruling is wrong and not for the good of his creatures and in this way he even challenged God’s right to rule.

But Satan’s action raised still another question, as is shown later in the Bible in the book of Job, chapters 1 and 2. There, in connection with a man named Job, it is show that Satan called into question the faithfulness and loyalty to Jehovah God of all creatures.

In so many words, Satan made the claim that those who serve God do so, not because they love God and his righteous rule, but only for selfish reasons, such as the material blessings God gives them. He claimed that, if such reasons were taken away, then even a man like Job would turn away from God. (Job 1:6-11; 2:4, 5) Yes, Satan’s rebellion in Eden called into question the loyalty of all God’s creatures in heaven and on earth. If put to the test, would they prove their love for their heavenly Father and show that they preferred his rule to that of any other?

GOD’S WAY OF SETTLING THE ISSUES

Note, please, that Satan did not raise any question as to God’s strength. He did not challenge Jehovah to use his might to destroy him as an opposer. But he did challenge God’s right to rule and the rightness of his way of ruling. Also, he questioned the loyalty of God’s creatures. So, instead of a test of strength, it was a moral issue that had to be settled.

Satan’s false charges against God may be illustrated, to a certain extent, in a human way. Suppose a man having a large family is accused by one of his neighbors of many false things about the way he manages his household. Suppose the neighbor also says that the family members have no real love for their father but only stay with him to obtain the food and material things he gives them. How might the father of the family answer such charges?

If he simply used violence against the accuser, this would not answer the charges. Instead, it might suggest that they were true. But what a fine answer it would be if he permitted his own family to be his witnesses to show that their father was indeed a just and loving family head and that they were happy to live with him because they loved him! Thus he would be completely vindicated.—Prov. 27:11; Isa. 43:10.

This illustrates in certain respects what God has done. Moreover, he has allowed sufficient time—now almost 6,000 years—for the issue to be settled beyond all doubt. He has allowed this time, not only to permit his faithful creatures to prove their devotion to him and his rule, but also to demonstrate that any other kind of rule results only in bad.—Prov. 1:30-33; Isa. 59:4, 8.

Satan set himself up as a rival ruler by rebelling against Jehovah God. And, by taking the course Satan recommended, the first human pair declared themselves independent of Jehovah’s rule and came under Satan’s control. (Gen. 3:6; Rom. 6:16) By God’s letting both Satan and man go to the limit in their efforts to act and rule independently of their Creator, their total failure to produce good government, with real benefits for all mankind, would be made evident beyond all future denial. Meanwhile Jehovah would have those on earth who love him proclaim his name and purposes for the enlightenment of all who love and seek what is right.

So, the situation is much like that involving a Pharaoh of Egypt who took a course similar to that of Satan the Devil in opposing Jehovah God, and to whom Jehovah said: “By now I could have thrust my hand out that I might strike you and your people with pestilence and that you might be effaced from the earth. But, in fact, for this cause I have kept you in existence, for the sake of showing you my power and in order to have my name declared in all the earth.”—Ex. 9:15, 16.

WHAT HAVE THE RESULTS SHOWN?

The Bible shows that Satan has made use of the time to build up an organization in heaven and earth over which he rules. The extent of his control of the earth is indicated by the fact that he could offer Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and their glory in exchange for Jesus’ worship. (Matt. 4:8, 9) That is why Satan is called “the god of this system of things” and “the ruler of this world.” (2 Cor. 4:4; John 16:11) What has this meant for mankind, and what has been the result of man’s course of independence from God and his rule?

History testifies to the fact that this has not brought peace, contentment and eternal life to mankind. It has brought the opposite: thousands of years of pain, suffering and death. The record of history and the dreadful state of affairs in the world today are proof that man has not succeeded in governing without God. Man has tried all kinds of government, but he still lacks security and enduring happiness.

True, there has been progress in a materialistic way. But is it really progress when men send rockets to the moon, and yet cannot live together in peace on earth? What good is it for them to build homes equipped with every convenience, only to have families torn apart by divorce and delinquency? Are wars, riots in the streets, destruction of life and property and widespread lawlessness something of which to be proud? Not at all! But they are the fruitage of rule that ignores God. Truly, as Ecclesiastes 8:9 says, “man has dominated man to his injury.”

So God’s long permission of wickedness has proved beyond doubt that man’s attempt to ‘play God’ is a miserable failure. (Ps. 127:1) As a prominent editor said: “The more we search for an alibi, the more we discover that unhappiness on earth is man-made. Our key weakness is that we have not solved the problem of self-government.”a The inspired Bible writer Jeremiah rightly said: “I well know, O Jehovah, that to earthling man his way does not belong. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step. Correct me, O Jehovah.”—Jer. 10:23, 24; see also Proverbs 16:25.

Satan’s influence over earth’s affairs has brought disunity, wickedness and death, and his rule has been by means of deceit, force and selfishness. He has proved himself unfit to be the ruler of anything. So Jehovah is now fully justified in destroying this debased rebel along with his demons and all those on earth who have shared in his wicked deeds. (Rom. 16:20) But what about the loyalty of God’s creatures to Jehovah’s loving rule and Satan’s claim that all would turn away if put to the test?

Jehovah God knew that “love never fails” and he knew that some of mankind would serve him willingly, out of love, and not because they were being bribed or forced. (1 Cor. 13:8) Many thousands have done this throughout the centuries. Job was one of these. Even though Satan brought terrific pressure against him and stripped him of his belongings, children and health, Job still declared: “Until I expire I shall not take away my integrity.” (Job 27:5) Job proved Satan a liar.

As we have seen, the perfect man Jesus resisted all of Satan’s temptations and bribes. Further, when whipped by soldier guards and nailed to a cruel torture stake to die, Jesus held fast his loyalty to God. (1 Pet. 2:23) This proved that perfect Adam could have done the same if he had wanted to, and that God was not unrighteous in requiring full obedience from man. (2 Thess. 1:4, 5) By his loyalty to Jehovah, Jesus gave the finest answer to Satan’s false challenge.

But Satan, his mind being twisted by selfishness and pride, has refused to slow down in his insane course. Although it has long since been proved that he was wrong and is a liar, he continues to persecute lovers of God. (Rev. 12:17) Since Jesus’ death many thousands of Christians have served Jehovah God because they loved him and wanted his loving rule over them. And right now, hundreds of thousands proclaim their loyalty to Jehovah as ruler. (Rev. 7:9, 10) Their faithful keeping of Jehovah’s Word and their respect for his law have enabled them to live in contentment, in spite of all opposition from Satan.

What a mountain of evidence the unity, love and integrity displayed by God’s servants throughout the centuries have provided against Satan and in behalf of Jehovah God! These clearly demonstrate that only Jehovah has the right to rule, that his way of ruling in love is the only right way, that man can stay loyal to him under the most severe test, and that Satan is the most monstrous liar of all time.

[Footnotes]

David Lawrence, U.S. News & World Report, Sept. 25, 1967, p. 128.

How Long Will Wickedness Continue?

JEHOVAH GOD has permitted wickedness until our day. But will he permit it to continue indefinitely?

No, for God’s particular purpose in permitting wickedness was to settle all the issues raised by Satan. Thus, he has set a definite time when he will bring wickedness to an end. The Bible writer Daniel referred to this long ago when he wrote: “The end is yet for the time appointed.”—Dan. 11:27.

Nearly six thousand years from Adam’s day to ours may seem a long time when viewed from the standpoint of humans who live about seventy years. But since God set the time limit, it is good to appreciate his view of the matter. The prophet Moses, at Psalm 90:4, says of him: “A thousand years are in your eyes but as yesterday when it is past.” A year is a long time to a child of five, but to a man of sixty it is comparatively short. Likewise, to Jehovah, who lives for eternity, a thousand years is like a day.—2 Pet. 3:8.

This set time during which wickedness has been permitted has been no injustice to us. Why, if God had immediately crushed the life out of all the rebels in Eden, we would never even have been born! We would never have had the opportunity for eternal life in his new system. So the fact that Jehovah did not cut short his long-suffering at some earlier time has given us opportunity to live now, and eternally in the future. (2 Pet. 3:9, 15) Also, God has used this time to provide for man’s redemption through Jesus Christ.—Gal. 4:4, 5.

In addition, God has used the time to select and prepare from among mankind “vessels of mercy.” These are the ones who will make up the righteous government over those who will live forever on earth in the new system. What blessings this heavenly kingdom means for mankind! During the time that God has been preparing the “vessels of mercy,” he has show much long-suffering. He has tolerated the wicked, the “vessels of wrath.” He has held off their destruction. Why? The Bible clearly answers: “In order that he might make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy.” (Rom. 9:22-24) To God’s heavenly kingdom will go the glory of vindicating God’s name and destroying the wicked, the “vessels of wrath.” Also, by his allowing wickedness to continue for a time, facets of God’s personality are manifested that would not ordinarily be seen: his mercy and long-suffering. These enrich our appreciation of the Creator and our own personalities, as we imitate him.—Eph. 5:1.

There has also been another real benefit in God’s permitting wickedness as long as he has. If at any time in the future anyone should call into question God’s way of doing things, it would not be necessary again for him to grant that one time to try out some other way. The record of six thousand years of failure by Satan, his demons, and men who have tried to run affairs independent of God has supplied sufficient answer. No one can rightly claim: ‘They did not get a chance,’ or say, ‘If only they had more time.’ The permitted time has been enough to prove that the way of rebellion against the Creator has been absolutely disastrous! So God will be fully justified in swiftly crushing any rebel that threatens the future peace of the universe.—Ps. 145:20.

There is only a short time left before Jehovah will destroy this wicked system of things. This remaining time gives us the opportunity to take sides with him and ‘make his heart rejoice.’ (Prov. 27:11) If we willingly submit to his rulership, he will bless us with eternal life in his new system. The choice of accepting or rejecting is set before each one of us.—Deut. 30:19, 20.

Obedience to God is not really difficult. If we appreciate that Jehovah’s wisdom is much greater than ours, and that whatever he does is for our good because he is a God of love, then we will obey him in everything. Whatever Jehovah’s will is, we will want to do it, whether in times of crisis or in the everyday things of life. That is the way loyal servants of God have always felt. (Dan. 3:16-18; Ps. 119:33-37) In the first century some of these said to a high court: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.”—Acts 5:29.

Today, Jehovah is using his loyal servants to declare his name and purposes in all the earth. (Matt. 24:14) When that is done to his satisfaction, then he will show Satan his almighty power by crushing him and all other rebels, bringing an end to this wicked system. Thus, Jehovah will clear the universe of wickedness and pave the way for his righteous new system.—2 Pet. 3:13.

The Faith That Pleases God

“The tested quality of your faith, of much greater value than gold that perishes despite its being proved by fire, may be found a cause for praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”—1 Pet. 1:7.

1, 2, (a) How is it true that faith takes many forms? (b) What did Jesus mean when he spoke of “the faith”?

WHETHER person is religiously inclined or not, everyone puts his faith in something. He may not believe in God, but he will believe in himself, the security of his bank account, the value of education, the superiority of a certain form of government, the integrity of a friend. So faith takes on many forms. But it was to man’s relationship to his Creator and his confidence in the outworking of God’s purposes that Jesus referred when he said: “Nevertheless, when the Son of man arrives, will he really find the faith on the earth?”—Luke 18:8.

2 What is “the faith” that Jesus referred to, and why is it so important to each one of us? Obviously Jesus was not referring to many different ideologies or even to what man might accomplish of his own will when he spoke of “the faith.” Rather he was referring to God and confidence in what He would do for the blessing of mankind, saying: “Certainly, then, shall not God cause justice to be done for his chosen ones who cry out to him day and night, even though he is long-suffering toward them? I tell you, He will cause justice to be done to them speedily.” (Luke 18:7, 8) However, Jesus did not indicate that God was going to use many channels or promote variant ideologies in dealing with mankind, each one to please the taste of some, when he spoke of “the faith.”

3. How is early Christianity described, and what viewpoint did the disciples have regarding it?

3 Similarly the apostles indicated that there was a faith and a way that was pleasing to God. Concerning Paul’s ministry in Ephesus the account at Acts 19:9 states: “Some went on hardening themselves and not believing, speaking injuriously about The Way before the multitude.” Here the true faith was called “The Way,” and, indeed, it was a way of life for those early Christians. Even when on trial Paul boldly admitted “that, according to the way that they call a ‘sect,’ in this manner I am rendering sacred service to the God of my forefathers.” These early Christians did not each one go his own way or follow his own line of thought, but endeavored to understand and follow closely the teachings of Christ and to gain insight into the mind of God, that their faith might have a solid base. As Paul wrote, “Now may the God who supplies endurance and comfort grant you to have among yourselves the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus had, that with one accord you may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Each one was not teaching a different philosophy, creed or belief, but they were in “one accord” and, in fact, believed in “one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all persons.”—Acts 24:14; Rom. 15:5, 6; Eph. 4:5, 6.

4. What should be our goal, and why?

4 Can we have that “one faith” today? If you feel that your religious conviction is that one original faith, can you back it up with Scripture? Do you know it well enough to impart it to others, making disciples of people of all nations as the early Christians did? This should be the goal of everyone who truly follows in the footsteps of Jesus. Regardless of a person’s belief, it is good to know exactly what one’s religion teaches and the basis for it.

“SOLID IN THE FAITH”

5, 6. (a) How did Jesus describe a person with true faith as compared with one lacking it? (b) How can we make our faith firm?

5 Our faith should be solid like a rock-mass that sinks deep into the earth and cannot be moved regardless of the forces pushing against it. But some have faith that is more like sandy soil that gives or shifts under pressure or even washes away completely when the rains pour down. Still others are so devoid of substance to their faith that it is like quicksand that not only is completely lacking in support but also will envelop and destroy anyone trusting in it.—Matt. 7:24-27.

6 Faith, to be like a rock-mass, must be based on truth. It must be clearly defined in one’s mind, solidly established on accurate knowledge and facts. Such a faith will stand up to questions and opposing viewpoints. Our faith should be a God-given faith. But how can we be sure? As 2 Corinthians 13:5 says, “Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are.” Yes, we have to keep testing and examining our faith: Is it logical, is it reasonable, does it harmonize with the book of faith, the Bible?

7, 8. Why have some persons lost faith? (b) What is necessary for faith?

7 Many have found their faith to be like the sandy soil that gave out on them under stress, having been built on traditions. human philosophies, not on the rocklike foundation of truth. This was the case of a woman who lost faith in the value of prayer and refused to teach her children to pray, because she had been taught to pray for the wrong thing, and when her prayers were not answered her faith was destroyed. She had built it on sandy soil. The individual she prayed for was violating God’s righteous commandments, yet she thought God should miraculously protect him. She was encouraged in this belief by her religious adviser, but her faith was sadly misplaced.

8 Even a rocklike faith may be shattered in time if it is not constantly built up, reinforced and strengthened; so it is no surprise if the uncertain beliefs of some youths are eroded when subject to attack. As Time magazine reported: “The objectivity of the religious courses sometimes startles students, who frequently sign up to have their faith reinforced, not scrutinized.” No wonder they are startled when the theologian commences his course by an attack on the basis for their faith, saying: “The Bible is the greatest collection of mythology in the history of Western civilization.” Certainly the faith of such students will never be built up by those who lack it, those casting doubts on God’s Word. Rather, as Romans 10:17 tells us, “faith follows the thing heard. In turn the thing heard is through the word about Christ.” So, to reinforce and strengthen one’s faith, hearing the Word of God with understanding is required.—Jas. 1:5-8; Neh. 8:8.

9. Describe true faith and why it is so important.

9 The true faith directs us toward God and strengthens us for his service. True faith is not just a passive belief now any more than it was for Jesus and his apostles. It requires a solid foundation and real effort to build it up through proper study and associations. It is vitally important for each Christian to build up his faith, because it governs his course in life and, in fact, his relationship to his Creator. As Paul wrote: “You are all, in fact, sons of God through your faith in Christ Jesus.” Again, Paul declared: “The life that I now live in flesh I live by the faith that is toward the Son of God, who loved me and handed himself over for me.” Does your faith mean that much in your life?—Gal. 3:26; 2:20; 2 Thess. 1:3.

10. How can attacks against faith be thwarted?

10 If one knows he is weak in faith, it is vital to work to build it up. Those whose faith is weak are likely objects for attack, for as Peter warned, “Your adversary, the Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone.” To ward off such Satanic attacks, Peter urges: “Take your stand against him, solid in the faith.” If you do, then “the God of all undeserved kindness . . . will himself finish your training, he will make you firm, he will make you strong.” (1 Pet. 5:8-10; Eph. 6:16) How does this strengthening take place? In Galatians chapter three Paul shows that by exercising faith the individual receives the backing of Jehovah’s holy spirit when under attack. The fact that training and exercising are mentioned in connection with faith shows need for an effort on our part to build it up. Earnestly seeking such faith leads one to a righteous standing with God; in fact, God assures us that he declares the “people of the nations righteous due to faith.”—Gal. 3:5, 6, 8, 22.

11. Why should we not despair of pleasing God?

11 Do you think you could never live up to God’s righteous requirements or share your faith with others as Jesus did? God does not ask us to do the impossible, but with the backing of his spirit these are things we can do. As Jesus said, “That expression, ‘If you can’! Why, all things can be to one if one has faith.” (Mark 9:23) To be pleasing to God our faith must be unwavering. As Hebrews 10:38 tells us, “‘My righteous one will live by reason of faith,’ and, ‘if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.’” Instead of shrinking back, we want to move ahead, to live in faith and to exercise our faith daily by sharing it with others.

THE GOD OF TRUE FAITH

12. Why is not just any kind of belief pleasing to God?

12 However, again the matter of the right faith comes into the picture if we want Jehovah to have pleasure in us. Many people believe in some kind of deity, and Paul recognized that, as recorded at 1 Corinthians 8:5, 6, “there are those who are called ‘gods,’ whether in heaven or on earth, just as there are many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords.’” But he emphasized, “There is actually to us one God the Father, out of whom all things are, and we for him; and there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are, and we through him.” So just believing in any god would not be pleasing to the true God, Jehovah. He tells us that he becomes “the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Heb. 11:6) But if we doggedly persist in looking for him in the wrong place or with the wrong concept we will not find him any more than if we look for a friend on the wrong street. Similarly, persons who put faith in man and deny the power and invisible qualities of God as seen through His creation will not find Him or have the faith pleasing to Him. Even religious people who put their faith in images, including those, please note, of imperfect or “corruptible man,” “even those who exchanged the truth of God for the lie and venerated and rendered sacred service to the creation rather than the One who created,” are not pleasing to God. (Rom. 1:20-25) So, obviously, what is pleasing to God is faith in the right thing, the right kind of faith, faith based on God’s Word and a knowledge of the Almighty as a personal and intelligent Being.—Rev. 22:8, 9.

13. On what should true faith be based, and what basis do we have for it?

13 True faith must be based on a knowledge of the Creator. After contrasting false beliefs with the true, Moses declared: “You well know that Jehovah your God is the true God, the faithful God, keeping covenant and loving-kindness in the case of those who love him and those who keep his commandments to a thousand generations.” (Deut. 7:9) Can you say that “you well know that Jehovah your God is the true God, the faithful God”? What is the evidence, both from the world around us and from the Bible, regarding the existence of God? True, we cannot see him, for God is spirit and invisible to us, but this is no reason to believe he is nonexistent. Rather, as Paul said at Romans 1:20, “his invisible qualities are clearly seen from the world’s creation onward, because they are perceived by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship.” (Heb. 11:27) We know that man did not make the universe, nor does he have the power to do so, and it is illogical to assume that it just came about without intelligent creative force in view of the intricate nature of all matter, animate and inanimate.

14. Why is God’s invisibility no reason for disbelief?

14 Many things that are quite real to us are invisible yet have power to bring about audible or visible effects; for example, gravity, air, radio waves, even some light waves that are invisible to the human eye and yet make stones glow in the dark. We believe in these things we cannot see because we know the results they bring about. We may not see the strong wind that blows us about on a windy day, but we feel it. We may not see the powerful hand of gravity pulling us to the earth, but we feel its power when we plunge off a ladder, hitting hard on the ground. We see no lines tying in our radio or TV set to a transmitter many miles away, yet the invisible signal comes through the air and we hear or see the resulting program. Surely God is not less powerful or wonderful than his creation nor is there less reason to believe in his reality than in these other things that we recognize to be realities.

15. How do we know that Genesis 1:1 is true?

15 The fact that radioactive elements in the rocks decay at a steady, measurable rate over thousands of years shows the passing of time and that the material had a beginning. Otherwise the radioactivity would finally have been exhausted. So the question arises, How and when did creative activity begin? Information such as this serves to strengthen our faith in the Creator and in the Bible account of a beginning to his creative works.—Gen. 1:1.

16. How do men’s efforts compare with God’s?

16 Again we might ask, Where did plants, trees, and finally man, get their life? Not from men, who cannot artificially reproduce even the simplest forms of microscopic life, nor could it have started spontaneously with creatures lower than man, with even less intellect, when modern scientists with the latest equipment at their command cannot artificially reproduce the most simple living organism. As Thomas A. Edison, the great inventor, is reported to have said, “Until man duplicates a single plant, nature can laugh at his so-called scientific knowledge.” No efforts of man have come close to the creative wisdom of Jehovah. So the Scriptures testify that God’s “invisible qualities are clearly seen . . . because they are perceived by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship, so that they are inexcusable.”—Rom. 1:20; Ps. 19:1; 100:3.

17. What did a French lecturer say about philosophies that ignore God?

17 No wonder Professor Tresmontant, lecturer on the philosophy of science at the Sorbonne in Paris, stated: “Those who find no place for God in their philosophy must be prepared to affirm that mindless, inanimate matter has been able to organize itself, to become animated, and to endow itself with consciousness and thought . . . Matter must be credited with all the attributes that theologians specify as belonging to God, including supreme intelligence, creative power and eternal, autonomous existence . . . Even if by the great act of faith you accept the theory that the first large molecule was created by a chance collision of the right atoms under the right circumstances . . . The operations of chance would have to be brought in again at each stage to account for the development of each new organ . . . If you go on attributing to chance results that in fact are radically contradictory to the laws of probability, you find that you are in effect spelling chance with a capital letter, and using it as a synonym for God.”

WORLD TROUBLES NO REASON TO LOSE FAITH

18. What reasons do the Scriptures give for present world distress?

18 An argument sometimes raised by those who deny the existence of God is that if God is so powerful and really does exist, why does not he do something to straighten out world conditions and alleviate our sufferings? Such skeptics are not usually persons who are really concerned about the Creator or interested in serving him, but rather they want a basis on which to divorce themselves from faith and its requirements. It is not that they are interested in God’s purpose or where they fit in the stream of time, but rather in the results to themselves. Actually their question is well answered in the Scriptures, which reveal that it is not God, but his agelong opposer Satan who is causing the misery and distress from which people suffer, while God is doing something and those who serve him are doing something, pointing men to the only real remedy for the situation, God’s Kingdom government. (Rev. 12:12; 1 John 5:19) God has permitted Satan to continue exercising power in the earth in order to demonstrate His power and justice and permit His name to be declared while a great crowd of faithful persons are gathered to the side of His kingdom. Rather than God’s being the source of the troubles on the earth today, Moses declared: “They have acted ruinously on their own part; they are not his children, the defect is their own. A generation crooked and twisted!”—Deut. 32:4, 5.

19. Why should we be happy over God’s patience?

19 Fortunately for us, God has kindly allowed time to settle permanently the challenge raised by Satan, while giving us the opportunity to show faith in him and to serve him. “What shall we say, then? Is there injustice with God? Never may that become so!” Instead, we are reminded, “If, now, God, although having the will to demonstrate his wrath and to make his power known, tolerated with much long-suffering vessels of wrath made fit for destruction, in order that he might make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy, . . . ” then certainly we should be happy that he has given us this opportunity of knowing the truth and serving him, rather than get upset that he has not wiped out the present system along with many good-hearted persons who may yet learn the way to life.—Rom. 9:14, 22, 23.

20. How will Jehovah’s kingdom magnify his name?

20 So one who bases his faith on the Bible and knows it well could answer the question by saying that God has permitted the continuation of wickedness for several reasons. He has given plenty of time for his Adversary to marshal all the degenerates in heaven and earth in opposition to His righteous purposes, and then He will show His power, not only at Armageddon when the earth is cleansed of wickedness to make way for the Kingdom rule, but finally at the end of the 1,000-year rule of Christ when wickedness is finally stamped out forever according to Jehovah’s great purpose. (Rev. 20:7-10) By following this course of long-suffering and patience despite the reproach that God-dishonoring people have brought against him, Jehovah will magnify his name through the operation of his kingdom.—Mal. 3:14-18.

21. How do the Scriptures give us the right viewpoint to avoid Satan’s trap?

21 The day-by-day passage of time that may seem slow to men and make us impatient for a quick change in conditions is as nothing to our God who is without beginning or end. Yet the time that he has set for the accomplishment of his righteous purpose toward the earth is scheduled to run out within the coming few years of this generation. So we do not want to fall now at this late date in man’s history into Satan’s trap of unbelief and lack of faith.—Matt. 24:34; Ps. 92:7; Eccl. 8:11-13.

BUILDING FAITH THAT PLEASES GOD

22. (a) How can one show that he is earnestly seeking God? (b) How can one demonstrate the reality of one’s faith?

22 If you are among those “earnestly seeking” God, then you will want to keep strengthening your faith by study and association with Jehovah’s witnesses, who are today truly exercising faith by bringing the good news of God’s kingdom to others. If you feel you have need to strengthen your faith lest you or your family be among the sad ones whose faith cools off and who have nothing to replace it, then “continue applying yourself” to taking in knowledge and sharing it with others, “for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.” (1 Tim. 4:13-16; 6:12; 2 Tim. 2:15) The true faith is not some intangible, unexplainable feeling, for Hebrews 11:1 shows that faith is tied in with realities, not unrealities. What one does about his faith gives a demonstration of the reality of his faith to others, convincing them that his belief in God and his purposes is an assured expectation.

23. To what can the faith that pleases God be likened?

23 So instead of putting your faith in financial resources that may quickly be wiped out, or in friends who may prove to be short-lived or of the fair-weather type, or even in a government whose administration may change when one least expects it, put your faith in the one who can help you, the one who has power of life or death. Let your faith be as solid as David’s was when Jehovah delivered him out of the hand of his enemy Saul. He beautifully expressed it in 2 Samuel 22, verse three of which says: “My God is my rock. I shall take refuge in him.” Let your faith be of tested quality, purified like fine gold, but of greater value before Jehovah. (1 Pet. 1:7) Let it be not like an uncontrolled, windblown wave of the sea, but like a ship under control, now anchored securely against a storm, now moving forward surely on course under the propelling force of God’s spirit. (Jas. 1:6, 7) Be sure you have “the faith” that Jesus spoke of, that you are following “The Way” as the apostles did, and that yours is the faith that pleases God.—1 John 5:4.

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FAITH

Are You Ready for the Responsibilities of a Baptized Witness?

“Now as they were going over the road, they came to a certain body of water, and the eunuch said: ‘Look! A body of water; what prevents me from getting baptized?’”—Acts 8:36.

1. What changes for a person does Christian baptism bring?

LIKE a man moving from one country to a new one, learning a new language and taking up a new occupation, so is the step of Christian baptism. The person making this move leaves this old system with its ties and allegiances and comes over into association with those of God’s spiritual nation, becoming part of the New World society of Jehovah’s people world wide. While still in the world, they are no longer a part of it, as they now recognize the power and authority of God’s heavenly government, his kingdom, in their lives. And instead of being divided nationalistically or linguistically, they now learn the “pure language” that all Jehovah’s people speak in common, the language of truth from the Scriptures. (Zeph. 3:9) Finally, they take on a new assignment of work, entering into the service of their Creator, making that the first interest in their lives.

2. How can one become a disciple of Christ?

2 Are you ready for such a move? Obviously it would take considerable thought, planning and prayer. That is why Jehovah’s witnesses do not encourage anyone to rush into baptism without first thoroughly learning what it means and what the responsibilities of a baptized Witness are. Yet the work that Jesus commanded be done and that Jehovah’s witnesses world wide are engaged in is to prepare sincere people for just such a move. Their work is to “make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them . . . teaching them.” (Matt. 28:19, 20) This is not a mere matter of putting one’s name on a church membership roll, or subscribing to some creed to qualify for membership, which status may then be maintained indefinitely regardless of the person’s course of conduct. To be a disciple of Christ a person must first qualify through study, acquiring faith by hearing the Word of God, and then deciding to make this move to come over on God’s side by taking one’s stand as a dedicated servant of Jehovah God.

3. What should a person showing interest in the truth expect, but what attitude should he have?

3 Those moving in such a direction usually come under attack in one or another of the many insidious ways that Satan uses to discourage those desiring to serve Jehovah. It may be opposition from family or friends; it may just be fear of what others will think. But it is something to expect, for, as Paul wrote at 2 Timothy 3:12, “all those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted.” This is not due to any wrongdoing on their part, but is because of the basic truth that Jesus explained to his disciples: “If you were part of the world, the world would be fond of what is its own. Now because you are no part of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, on this account the world hates you. Bear in mind the word I said to you, A slave is not greater than his master. If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” (John 15:19, 20) This is no cause for alarm, because when we are on Jehovah’s side, nothing that Satan can do can cause us lasting harm. Rather, Jesus showed, it should be a cause of happiness on our part if we suffer for his name’s sake, becoming objects of Satan’s attacks just as Jesus was.—Matt. 5:11.

4. What understanding should a person considering baptism come to have?

4 However, it does mean that those doing the discipling and teaching work must prepare those with whom they study to be forearmed to withstand such opposition. It is a reason, too, why a person contemplating baptism should not rush into it, but should first have a good understanding of God’s Word, strong faith in Jehovah, and a willingness to serve him faithfully, regardless of what may come. The student must come to appreciate that Jehovah is the Great Teacher through his inspired Word the Bible. As Isaiah 48:17 says, “I, Jehovah, am your God, the One teaching you to benefit yourself, the One causing you to tread in the way in which you should walk.” He learns, not that it is Jehovah who needs him, but that he needs Jehovah and that he is born in sin and is therefore in need of Jehovah’s provisions for life and salvation through Christ Jesus. In fact, each one, whether he realizes it or not, is a slave of sin and thus without hope of everlasting life until such time as he accepts the ransom Jehovah provided through Jesus. (Eccl. 7:20; Rom. 6:17, 18, 22, 23) When one’s study and faith show him clearly what an undeserved kindness it is on God’s part, not only for him to learn the truth, but to have his heartfelt dedication accepted by the Creator, he can see why those of the “great crowd” who now take this step of dedication in effect cry out with a loud voice, “Salvation we owe to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.”—Rev. 7:10.

5. What changes may be necessary prior to baptism as indicated by the Scriptures?

5 He can understand, too, why a change must be made in a person’s life before his dedication would be acceptable to Jehovah. As Jesus said, “The true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him.” (John 4:23) But those who worship according to some religious formalism to be seen of men, or whose religious teaching is tainted with falsehood, cannot expect their way of worship to be pleasing to God, Rather, concerning the world organization of false worship, a voice out of heaven is heard declaring: “Get out of her, my people, if you do not want to share with her in her sins.”—Rev. 18:4; Matt. 6:1-5; 1 Cor. 10:20, 21.

6. What things would be required for one’s dedication to be acceptable to Jehovah?

6 Some persons find that they need to make a real change in their way of living to qualify to approach Jehovah in dedication. Psalm 15:1-3 asks: “O Jehovah, who will be a guest in your tent? Who will reside in your holy mountain? He who is walking faultlessly and practicing righteousness and speaking the truth in his heart. He has not slandered with his tongue. To his companion he has done nothing bad.” So it may require making one’s mind over to Jehovah’s way of thinking and conforming one’s life to his righteous standards with the help of his active force. Those who continue in a dissolute way of life, showing themselves to be lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, those who are more interested in the desires of this life than in everlasting life and who show themselves to be friends of this old system of things, thereby indicate they are the enemies of God. He will not even consider their prayers, much less accept an insincere dedication, which amounts to saying one thing and doing another.—Isa. 1:15-17; Jas. 4:4.

7. What privilege and responsibility can be ours?

7 However, all persons of honest heart who come to know Jehovah’s Word and purposes are invited to share in the grand work recorded in Psalm 148:13, 14: “Let them praise the name of Jehovah, for his name alone is unreachably high. His dignity is above earth and heaven. . . . Praise Jah, you people!” This, in fact, is one of the responsibilities of a baptized Witness. God is indeed gracious to give mere man the honor of serving him in this way. And considering what a privilege it is to represent Jehovah in this way by bringing the truth to others as Jehovah’s witnesses do in their house-to-house ministry, we can understand why the only ones invited to share in this work are those who have not only come to appreciate the Scriptures and the Kingdom hope, but have also made their lives over in harmony with God’s will. As Jesus said in prayer to his Father, at John 17:6: “I have made your name manifest to the men you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have observed your word.” Yes, such ones have come out of this system with its corruption and disregard for God’s righteous requirements and have come to observe and follow God’s Word. They “observe the commandments of God” and so qualify for “the work of bearing witness to Jesus.”—Rev. 12:17.

8. (a) Explain what preparation a person considering baptism should make. (b) What are some basic truths with which he should be familiar?

8 In order to observe the commandments and do the witness work, accurate knowledge of the truth is required. As Paul commented: “Do you, however, the one teaching someone else, not teach yourself?” (Rom. 2:21) Especially before such an important step as baptism is it necessary to get an accurate fundamental knowledge of the Scriptures and of what is required of a baptized witness of Jehovah. Baptismal candidates, therefore, are encouraged to read and study the Bible carefully. As an aid to accurate knowledge the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society has encouraged all persons before baptism to study or at least read carefully the basic Bible textbooks “Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie” and Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God (or, if they are not available in your language, other recent publications of the Watch Tower Society that cover similar material). These publications help to establish a basis for rocklike faith as they cover subjects such as how we can be sure of the existence of God, which sacred book of religion is the truth, and how to become one of God’s men of “good will.” Besides doctrinal information, the student learns of the respective places of man and woman in the Christian congregation, the importance of neutrality in this old system, the sacredness of blood, and of the fight that must be maintained against wicked spirit forces for one to receive finally the paradisaic blessings God has in store for those faithfully serving him.

9. Why is it proper for a person considering baptism to consult with the congregation overseer prior to taking such a step?

9 Additionally, the Watch Tower Society has recently provided in English, and in a number of other languages, the publication “Your Word Is a Lamp to My Foot,” showing the Scripturalness of Jehovah’s modern-day organization in the earth. In the first portion of this publication some key Bible questions are propounded, together with their answer in the form of Scriptural citations. When the student consults with the overseer of the local congregation and can affirm that his life is in harmony with the Scriptural pattern and shows that he can comment with understanding on these basic truths, then, indeed, such a person is in position to dedicate himself in prayer to Jehovah and undergo water baptism in symbol of his dedication to do Jehovah’s will. Such fine guides to accurate knowledge, provided by Jehovah as the Great Teacher through his channel of communication in the earth today, help us to appreciate what Jehovah requires of each person who loves him and desires to serve him. Then truly such a person is in position to say as did the Ethiopian with whom Philip discussed the truth: “Look! A body of water; what prevents me from getting baptized?”—Acts 8:36.

10. (a) What does baptism mean for the individual, and why is it so important? (b) What blessings come to the individual who is baptized?

10 By this step of baptism one actively puts oneself on God’s side, demonstrating one’s faith in Jehovah and in Christ Jesus. One takes up the fight of Christian faith, entering the ranks of those serving Christ. (2 Tim. 2:3, 4) He has made his dedication to Jehovah in prayer, in effect determining to devote himself to the doing of God’s will unconditionally. In this he follows the example set by Jesus as recorded in the Scriptures. He indicates he is desirous of following the lead of God’s holy spirit. Such a course has God’s approval and brings the support of his spirit and the encouragement and assistance of his organization as well as the assurance of a good conscience that the individual is sincerely endeavoring to please God fully. (Mark 1:9-11; 1 Pet. 3:21) Thus when the individual is lowered beneath the water of the baptismal site, it is as though he is buried or dies symbolically to his past situation in life and is then raised up for a new start, ready and willing to conform fully to God’s guidance in his life. Baptism is therefore a solemn commitment made to the Creator. Since nothing in a person’s life can have greater significance than his relationship to God, his baptism as a Christian is therefore the most important step in his life.—Eccl. 5:4-6.

11. (a) How is baptism different from an individual’s private prayer of dedication to God? (b) What does baptism indicate that a person recognizes?

11 At the time of baptism it is customary that other dedicated persons be present as witnesses to the ceremony. They recognize that the one being baptized is publicly avowing to accept the responsibilities and privileges that come with being a baptized Witness. But they are not the only witnesses. As Jesus said, the individual is baptized “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit.” So we can be sure that Jehovah and Jesus are interested witnesses on such occasions. They are interested because this person has come to recognize that Jehovah is the Supreme Sovereign and Life-Giver and that Jesus, his Son and our Redeemer, is the enthroned King of Jehovah’s new system of righteousness. He acknowledges the guiding power and force of Jehovah’s spirit in his life and realizes that his dedication and baptism put him on the side of the ‘great cloud of witnesses’ who today faithfully follow the lead of ‘the Chief Agent and Perfecter of their faith, Jesus.’—Heb. 12:1, 2.

12. Why is following the course of dedication to God recommended despite all obstacles?

12 Baptism brings responsibilities and privileges, but also opposition. Jesus showed that this dedication of one’s self to Jehovah must take precedence in one’s life, even over family or relatives if they are opposed. Only by one’s faithfulness will one be found pleasing to Jehovah and perhaps impress on one’s family the importance of their also taking up the same faithful course that leads to life. (Rom. 10:13) As Jesus said, “Whoever is not carrying his torture stake and coming after me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26, 27) Are you willing to do that? The goal toward which one strives is a great one—everlasting life. Since the reward is great, it is only reasonable that achieving it is not easy, but with Jehovah’s help it can be gained. Jesus described access to this reward as a narrow gate and a cramped road that few find, but, once found, it is the road to stick to regardless of the problems along the way. (Matt. 7:14) Since Jehovah has shown such love for us through the sacrifice of his Son, to make this prospect of life possible, we want to show unswerving love also for Him in living up to our dedication.—1 John 4:9.

13. (a) What does baptism not mean for the individual? Why? (b) What good Scriptural counsel should a baptized Christian be sure to follow?

13 Once one is baptized, one does not lean back and rest on one’s laurels, feeling that now one has done what God requires. It is not the end of the road, but the beginning just as Jesus’ life showed. It was after his baptism that he commenced his public ministry, throwing himself into the preaching work, despite the opposition and hatred manifested by the religious class in his day, which hatred was appeased finally only by his death. So, recognizing the work ahead, one who dedicates oneself to Jehovah wants to be sure one keeps well equipped for it. This means study. Not just congregational study, but personal Bible study so that when we need convincing Bible answer to help someone appreciate the truth, we will be able to give it. (1 Tim. 4:16) As Proverbs 18:15 says, “The heart of the understanding one acquires knowledge, and the ear of wise ones seeks to find knowledge.” Peter urged: “Go on growing in the undeserved kindness and knowledge of our Lord.” (2 Pet. 3:18) Paul counseled, “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Tim. 2:15) Finally, Hebrews 6:1 encourages, “Let us press on to maturity.” So the baptized Witness does not slow down or stop his studying of the Scriptures just because he is now baptized or perhaps because the one who previously studied with him discontinues giving this assistance. Rather he sees the need to continue growing in knowledge and under standing himself and so plans a definite schedule for continued personal study and asks Jehovah through prayer to help him by means of his spirit to understand his Word even more as time goes on. (Prov. 2:4-6; Jas. 1:5) He recognizes this as one of the responsibilities of a baptized Witness in order to keep spiritually strong.

14. (a) What arrangement does Jehovah have for the well-being of his servants on the earth, so why should a baptized person want to cooperate with it? (b) What did Jesus say about Christian unity?

14 His study as well as his association with Jehovah’s people helps him to understand that Jehovah has, not only a heavenly, but also an earthly, visible organization of people doing his will. Jesus foretold that among his people there would be a “faithful and discreet slave” class who would be providing the spiritual food to God’s family of devoted servants on earth, acting as his channel of communication and overseeing the carrying out of the Kingdom interests world wide. (Matt. 24:45-47) These anointed overseers serve as though being guided in their activities by the right hand of Christ. They take the same viewpoint as Jesus had when he said to Jehovah, “Let, not my will, but yours take place.” (Luke 22:42) To illustrate the harmony that would prevail in Jehovah’s organization, Jesus likened it, in John 15:1-10, to a vine with branches. Jehovah is the Great Cultivator, Jesus is the vine and those coming into spiritual union with him are the branches. Clearly this necessitates a recognition of Jehovah’s organization in the earth today. This vine is a productive one bearing fruit that will last through Armageddon.—Heb. 13:7, 17.

15. What good fruits should all Christians endeavor to produce?

15 What kind of fruit is it that those attached to the vine must bear in order to have God’s favor and to avoid being pruned off as unproductive sprouts? Actually the Scriptures mention two kinds of fruitage that a Christian would endeavor to cultivate. One is the fruitage of the spirit, including love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22, 23) To stay in harmony with Christ and to be pleasing to Jehovah, these qualities must be produced. But we want to see such fruitage, not only in ourselves, but also in others. Those who are disciples of Christ understand that it is Jehovah’s will that they make disciples of others also. As Proverbs 11:30 says, “The fruitage of the righteous one is a tree of life, and he that is winning souls is wise.” This was the work to which Paul and the early Christians devoted themselves. Paul wrote to the Romans (1:13) that he hoped to come to minister among them that he ‘might acquire some fruitage also among them even as among the rest of the nations.’ By this he referred to Kingdom fruitage or Christian disciples. Each one who dedicates himself to Jehovah has a responsibility in this regard to endeavor to acquire fruitage by discipling people of the nations.

16. How do the Scriptures point out a Christian’s responsibility and the wise course to follow?

16 Paul felt so strongly about this responsibility, that he said: “If, now, I am declaring the good news, it is no reason for me to boast, for necessity is laid upon me. Really, woe is me if I did not declare the good news!” (1 Cor. 9:16) This work is not one we do just in our own strength, but we can be assured of the assistance of Jehovah’s spirit as long as we prepare and do our part. It is Jehovah who brings the fruitage and the increase as a result of the activities of his servants throughout the earth. Each one who dedicates himself to Jehovah has a serious responsibility before his Creator. As Ezekiel 33:8 says, if “you actually do not speak out to warn the wicked one from his way, he himself as a wicked one will die in his own error, but his blood I shall ask back at your own hand.” How much happier a course to share actively in giving the warning and as a result have the joy of rescuing many honest-hearted ones for life in Jehovah’s paradisaic new system! To such ones Jesus declared: “I say, then, to you, Everyone that confesses union with me before men, the Son of man will also confess union with him before the angels of God.”—Luke 12:8.

17. Despite difficulties, of what can one who is dedicated to Jehovah be sure?

17 What a cause for joy to have the Son’s favor! So, one who enters into a dedicated relationship with Jehovah and who accepts Jesus as his Mediator automatically receives responsibilities; one also receives many blessings and much joy. Such one recognizes that Jehovah is his strength and source of help, the One who saves and shepherds his people. (Ps. 28:7-9) He finds that, far from being a burden, the service he performs to Jehovah brings him much happiness and is a source of refreshment to him. (1 John 5:3) Even though one may be under much pressure from family or friends, or though circumstances are difficult for the time, the one who continues to find a place for Kingdom interests in his life, making first place for Jehovah and his service, will find the way smoothed for him. This was true for the returning captives of Zion, and it is true for spiritual Israelites today. As Psalm 126:5, 6 declares: “Those sowing seed with tears will reap even with a joyful cry. The one that without fail goes forth, even weeping, carrying along a bagful of seed, will without fail come in with a joyful cry, carrying along his sheaves.”

18. What should an unbaptized person do, and with what goal in view?

18 What a privilege it is to know the truth and have some share in advancing the Kingdom interests in these “last days.” For those of you contemplating baptism, now is the time to prepare for it by careful study, by bringing your life into conformity with Jehovah’s righteous requirements, and by prayer to Jehovah for his guidance. Then do not hold back, but, like Jesus, move ahead into greater service and receive Jehovah’s approval. And for those who have taken this step, let each one live up to the responsibilities that come with dedication to Jehovah, knowing that “loving-kindness belongs to you, O Jehovah, for you yourself pay back to each one according to his work.” (Ps. 62:12) Show to all that you have moved over from the old system to the new, that you have learned and can now teach the pure language of truth under the direction of Christ the King because you willingly accept the responsibilities of a baptized Witness.—Luke 9:59-62.

A Magazine Found in the Street

One day, in Mexico, a lady picked up a copy of The Watchtower that she found lying in the street. She began reading it, and what she read aroused her interest so much that she was moved to go to an Evangelical Temple to ask if this was the place where The Watchtower was distributed. They told her that it was not, but they mentioned that they thought it was distributed on a certain street. For two days this interested lady hunted up and down this street, asking everyone she met.

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The Watchtower, January 15, 1969