The Watchtower, April 1, 1969
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The Watchtower — April 1, 1969
Source: jw.org
Contents
Conquering the Fears of Our Day
Identifying the True Church and Its Foundation
Make Your Advancement Manifest by Responding to God’s Word
Why Is Your Ministry Successful?
Giving a Witness Worthy of the Kingdom
How Inconsistent!
Joyful Service with Jehovah’s Organization
“Classical” Historians—How Dependable?
Questions From Readers
Announcements
Conquering the Fears of Our Day
Conquering the Fears of Our Day
WHEN an awful fireball and mushroom-shaped cloud rose above Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, a new fear began gripping the hearts of mankind—the fear of nuclear annihilation. Now it was possible for a single bomb to demolish an entire city.
Expressing this fear, Arthur H. Compton, Chancellor of Washington University and a Nobel Prize winner, said in 1946: “The terrific blast at Hiroshima shocked the world into a realization that catastrophe lies ahead if war is not eliminated. This great fear has for the time being overshadowed the hope that atomic energy may vastly enrich human life if given a chance.”
To investigators who visited Hiroshima after the war, a city official said, while gesturing toward his demolished city: “All this from one bomb; it is unendurable.” Now, in 1969, hydrogen bombs exist that are several thousand times more powerful than the bomb that leveled Hiroshima. Contemplating the frightful, unendurable devastation such bombs could bring upon modern cities and the slim chance of survival, people the world over look to the future with fearful anxiety.
Fear of nuclear war is only one of many distressing fears that trouble people today. There is also fear of the growing crime and violence in the streets, fear of economic loss, and so forth. How can such fears be conquered so that a person can live without their creating a constant feeling of insecurity? Although this may seem very difficult, it can be done.
KNOWLEDGE OF THE FUTURE
Fear of a nuclear war, for example, is aggravated by uncertainty as to what the future will bring. Now, if a person could know what will happen in the future, where the nations are headed and what he personally can do to keep himself and his family alive, would that not enable him to conquer fear of nuclear war? But how is it possible to know the future and remove uncertainty about it?
On his own, man does not know what the days to come will bring, but his Creator does. Long ago it was written in the Bible that our Creator is the One “telling from the beginning the finale, and from long ago the things that have not been done.” (Isa. 46:10) Long ago he caused to be written in the Bible the very troubles that have made the period since 1914 “critical times hard to deal with.” (2 Tim. 3:1) As also foretold, we see men becoming “faint out of fear and expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth.”—Luke 21:26.
Going beyond what is happening today, the Bible gives us a view of the future. Despite fears that people have of nuclear annihilation, our Creator foretells in his written Word that wars will cease and the earth will become a place of peace, with mankind coming under the rule of a just and righteous earth-wide government. (Ps. 37:11; Dan. 2:44) The present system of man-made government that has created the perilous situations causing fearful anxiety for the future will give way to that new government of God’s making. Faithful servants of God who may die before then will not lose out. Those who lose their lives due to sickness, old age or violence will return to life by means of a resurrection.—Acts 24:15.
Many people who were once living in fear of nuclear war now look forward to the peaceful earth God has revealed to be in the near future for mankind. For example, an eighteen-year-old boy who indulged in wild living with his associates was so fearful of the future that he actually contemplated suicide, but he was able to conquer that fear by learning what God’s written Word has foretold for the near future.
FEAR OF CRIME AND VIOLENCE
But what can a person do to conquer fear of crime and violence in city streets? It would be foolish to go about pretending that this danger does not exist. It does and it can be expected to grow worse until God brings about his promised earth-wide change.
In the meantime people have to live with the situation. Fear of the danger can be diminished by taking sensible precautions. A person can avoid being on the streets at late hours when they are deserted. When he perceives a suspicious-looking person or group of persons loitering on the street ahead of him, he can avoid walking past them by changing his route. By taking precautions he can prevent fear from conquering him.
Fear of economic loss because of worsening national and international monetary problems can be conquered by adjusting one’s view of money. Instead of permitting a consuming love for money to develop so that it becomes the center of one’s life, a person can learn to keep it in a position of lesser importance than other things.
No matter what may happen to one’s possessions, if he has association with God’s organization he has good friends to whom he can turn for help and good counsel based on the wisdom of God’s Word. Such friendship is worth more than money and gives a greater sense of security.
Money is useful and necessary in the present system of things, but is it not foolish to conclude that life is not worth living when heavy financial losses are experienced? Is not life worth more than money and material possessions? Is it not foolish, then, to permit the fear of losing them to affect one’s health?
The Bible gives good advice when it says: “We have brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out. So, having sustenance and covering, we shall be content with these things.” (1 Tim. 6:7, 8) With this viewpoint, cannot a person conquer fear of loss?
There are many fears that disturb people, but they need not become overpowered by them. With the help of God’s Word and good sense it is possible to conquer the fears of our day.
Identifying the True Church and Its Foundation
Identifying the True Church and Its Foundation
IF WE want to live eternally in God’s new system we must acknowledge the true church and its foundation. With reference to them, Jesus said: “Upon this rock I will build my Church.” (Matt. 16:18, Dy) What is this church and what is the rock or foundation upon which it is built? The Bible provides us with the right answers.
While many persons speak of the buildings in which people meet for worship as “churches,” did you know that the Bible never does? In the Bible the word “church” always refers to people, actually to an assembly or congregation of persons. For example, the Christian apostle Paul addressed a letter preserved in the Holy Bible “to Philemon, our beloved, . . . and to the church which is in thy house.”—Philem. 1, 2, Dy.
The Greek word ek·kle·siʹa, which is translated “church” or “congregation” in the Bible, literally means “that which is called out.” It refers to a group of persons called out from among others for a particular purpose; but it is used as the equivalent of the Hebrew word qahalʹ, meaning “congregation” or “assembly.”
THE MEMBERS OF THE TRUE CHURCH
The true church or congregation is compared to a virgin girl engaged to Christ, because as a group the members of the true church are to be closely united to Christ, as a wife is to her husband. Writing to certain members of the church, the apostle Paul said: “I personally promised you in marriage to one husband that I might present you as a chaste virgin to the Christ.” (2 Cor. 11:2; see also Revelation 21:2, 9, 10.) So the true church is a clean congregation, free from worldly corruption and devoted to its Head, Jesus Christ.
This true church is also likened to a human body, because it has many members, but only one head, just as a human body has. The inspired Scriptures, at Ephesians 1:22, 23 in the Catholic Douay version of the Bible, tell us that God made Christ “head over all the church, which is his body.”
Could any one of us decide to “join” this body or church simply by getting one’s name placed on some membership roll here on earth? No; as Hebrews 12:23 (Dy) explains, this is the “church of the firstborn who are written in the heavens.” God is the one who selects the members. As the Bible explains: “Now God has set the members in the body, each one of them, just as he pleased.” (1 Cor. 12:18) These are the ones who will be with Christ in heaven. And Jesus revealed that, far from including all who profess to be Christians, they are limited in number to just 144,000.—Rev. 14:1-3; Luke 12:32.
They are, indeed, a group of persons called out from spiritual darkness for a special purpose. While here on earth they boldly “declare abroad the excellencies” of the Most High God, who called them out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Pet. 2:9) And, after their resurrection, they will have the grand privilege of ruling with Christ in his heavenly kingdom.—Luke 22:28-30.
The first members of this true church were all Jews (as were Jesus and his apostles) or circumcised Jewish converts. At Pentecost of 33 C.E.—just ten days after Jesus had ascended to heaven and opened the way for others to follow him in due time—Jehovah indicated his selection of these members through the pouring out of holy spirit. Their receiving of the spirit on that occasion bore witness to them that they were now God’s spiritual sons and heirs of the kingdom with Christ.—Acts 2:1-4, 16-21, 33; Rom. 8:16, 17.
However, the membership of the true church did not remain all Jewish. Three and a half years after Jesus’ death the way was opened for Gentiles or non-Jews to be included. The first uncircumcised Gentile members of the Christian church were an Italian army officer and his household. (Acts 10:30-33, 44; Rom. 9:23, 24) So, in course of time, the true church came to have international membership.
THE FOUNDATION OF THE TRUE CHURCH
Who is the foundation of the true church? Jesus Christ made clear that he himself is that foundation. He applied to himself the prophecy of Psalm 118:22, saying: “The stone that the builders rejected is the one that has become the chief cornerstone.”—Matt. 21:42-44.
The apostle Paul adds his testimony that Jesus is the “chief corner stone,” writing to Christians at Ephesus: “You are fellow citizens with the saints and the domestics of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” (Eph. 2:19, 20, Dy) The apostle was very definite about it, saying again: “For other foundation no man can lay, but that which is laid: which is Christ Jesus.”—1 Cor. 3:11, Dy.
There could be no finer and surer foundation for the true church than Christ Jesus, could there? It is his own perfect human life given as a ransom that makes possible this divine arrangement. Yet, how can we harmonize this testimony by Jesus and the apostle Paul with what Jesus stated to Peter at Matthew 16:18? We may be sure that there is no contradiction.
“UPON THIS ROCK I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH”
Peter had just acknowledged Jesus to be the Christ (or, the Messiah), the Son of the living God. Jesus then said: “I say to thee: That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church.” (Matt. 16:18, Dy) Some understand these words to mean that Jesus’ church is built on Peter as the foundation. This is the official position of the Roman Catholic Church. But it is of interest to note that Archbishop Kenrick, in the book An Inside View of the Vatican Council (1870), shows that of at least eighty-six early church “fathers,” only seventeen understood Jesus’ reference to the “rock” as applying to Peter. Were you aware of this?
Consider, for example, the view of Augustine (354-430 C.E.), usually referred to as “Saint Augustine.” Though at one time he viewed Peter as the “rock,” in later life Augustine restated his position, saying in his Retractationes: “I have since frequently explained the words of our Lord: ‘Thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build my Church,’ to the effect that they should be understood as referring to him whom Peter confessed when he said: ‘Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God,’ . . . For what was said to [Peter] was not ‘Thou art the rock,’ but ‘Thou art Peter.’ But the rock was Christ.”
But of far more importance—how did Peter himself understand Jesus’ words? Concerning the Lord Jesus, Peter said: “Unto whom coming, as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men but chosen and made honourable by God: Be you also as living stones built up, a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore it is said in the scripture: Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious. And he that shall believe in him shall not be confounded. To you therefore that believe, he is honour: but to them that believe not, the stone which the builders rejected, the same is made the head of the corner: and a stone of stumbling and a rock of scandal, to them who stumble at the word.”—1 Pet. 2:4-8, Dy.
These words of Peter show that he, like the apostle Paul, understood Jesus to be the “chief corner stone,” the “rock” on which the church is built. Peter is just one of the 144,000 “living stones” making up the true church.
Peter enjoyed fine privileges as an apostle of Jesus Christ, it is true. But nowhere does he indicate that he thought he was the chief of the apostles. Nor do we read anywhere that the other apostles and disciples recognized Peter as a “pope” and gave him honor as such. In fact, when the apostles and older men met at Jerusalem to decide a question of importance to the church, it was the disciple James. not Peter, who presided over the meeting and expressed the final decision.—Acts 15:6-20.
It is clear, too, that Peter was not infallible. On one occasion the apostle Paul found it necessary to reprove Peter (Cephas) publicly for having taken a course not in keeping with true Christian faith. The fact that Peter was wrong on this matter involving faith and morals and also that Paul felt free to correct him publicly shows that Peter was not looked to as an “infallible” head of the apostles or of the early church. (Gal. 2:11-14) In the true church there is only one Head, Jesus Christ, who, since his resurrection, is “alive forever,” and so needs no successors.—Heb. 7:23-25.
A UNITED CHURCH
Jesus, the Head, does not split up the body of his congregation into a clergy class and a laity class of the “common people.” He says to his followers: “Do not you be called Rabbi, for one is your teacher, whereas all you are brothers. Moreover, do not call anyone your father on earth, for one is your Father, the heavenly One. Neither be called ‘leaders,’ for your Leader is one, the Christ.”—Matt. 23:8-10.
So Jesus shows that there is no division among those who make up the true church. All are brothers; there are no class distinctions. Is that the case of any religious group with which you may be associated? Jesus did arrange, however, for men to take the lead in the Christian congregation, to serve the spiritual needs of their brothers and organize the work of preaching the good news. He said such ones were not to “lord it over” their brothers but were to be like slaves or servants to them. (Matt. 20:25-28) Is that true of the clergymen you know?
To fit the Bible’s description of the true church, those who make it up must be united in their worship. In this regard the apostle Paul wrote: “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.” (1 Cor. 1:10) So we cannot Scripturally expect to find the members of the true church scattered among all the conflicting religions of Christendom. They must be gathered together in just one congregation. As Ephesians 4:4, 5 says of them: “One body there is, . . . one Lord, one faith.” It is vital for us to know what that “one faith” is.
APPRECIATION OF THE TRUE CHURCH AND ITS FOUNDATION
The members of the true church under Christ their head are said to become “Abraham’s seed, heirs with reference to a promise.” (Gal. 3:29) This promise is that all others of obedient mankind will bless themselves through Christ and his congregation. (Gen. 22:18) The Bible foretold that, at the time of the establishment of Christ’s kingdom, there would be only a remnant of these children of the “Jerusalem above,” God’s heavenly organization, left on earth. (Gal. 4:26; Rev. 12:10, 17) Jesus described these members of his church on earth as a “faithful and discreet slave.” And he said that such ones who were found faithfully serving at the time of his coming to his judgment work would be appointed “over all his belongings,” that is, over all the earthly interests of Christ’s kingdom. They would take the lead in the preaching of the good news of the established Kingdom to all the nations in the “time of the end.”—Matt. 24:14, 45-47; 25:19-23.
All those today who hope to gain eternal life in God’s new system need to recognize this arrangement. For Jesus said that, in this “time of the end,” he separates to a position of favor those doing good to the remaining ones on earth of his “brothers,” his joint heirs who make up the Christian congregation. (Matt. 25:31-40) These are the remaining ones of the “living stones” that are built up into a spiritual house or temple, “a place for God to inhabit by spirit.”—1 Pet. 2:5; Eph. 2:20-22.
Those ‘doing good’ to the members of this temple class are described in the book of Revelation as a “great crowd” of persons who come under God’s protection. Contrasting them with those who make up the spiritual congregation, the Bible says: “Look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne . . . And they keep on crying with a loud voice, saying: ‘Salvation we owe to our God,’ . . . and they are rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple.” This service in the temple indicates that they are serving in association with the remnant of the spiritual temple class, the Christian congregation.—Rev. 7:9, 10, 15.
These sheeplike persons say, in effect, to the heirs of the promise made to Abraham: “We will go with you people, for we have heard that God is with you people.” (Zech. 8:23) Even as those of the true church or congregation faithfully walk in Christ’s footsteps and proclaim the Kingdom message, so likewise these sheeplike ones ‘go with them,’ serving God right along with them. Are you doing that? If so, you have the prospect of receiving eternal life on earth, along with all the other blessings that will flow from Christ and his glorified congregation in the heavens.
Make Your Advancement Manifest by Responding to God’s Word
Make Your Advancement Manifest by Responding to God’s Word
“At any rate, to what extent we have made progress, let us go on walking orderly in this same routine.”—Phil. 3:16.
1. What wholesome effect does Christian advancement have on others in the faith?
THE steady advancements made by a Christian bring not only a deep sense of satisfaction to the one thus advancing but also encouragement and a cause for rejoicing to fellow Christians. What a joy it is when the students we are assisting with a study of God’s Word progressively absorb one truth after another so as to get an accurate understanding of the Bible! Their happiness and ours reach sublime heights when they progress to the point of dedication to God and baptism in water. And does your heart quicken when you hear a new one give his first comment at the congregation’s Watchtower study or give his first student talk in the Theocratic Ministry School? How do you feel when a young brother advances to the Christian maturity required of a public speaker and gives his first well-polished but somewhat nervously delivered public talk? We are all encouraged by advancement, are we not? We realize that advancement manifested by responding to God’s Word leads to life; and if our advancement is encouraging to others, this in turn gives us one more good reason why we should move ahead, does it not? It is just as the apostle Paul wrote to young Timothy, at 1 Timothy 4:15, 16: “Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons. Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching. Stay by these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”
2. (a) How is God’s Word a powerful force to stimulate advancement? (b) In what way do our ears ‘hear a word from behind’ us to guide us today?
2 There is a powerful force from God that stimulates us to make advancement. We are told, at Hebrews 4:12: “The word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword . . . and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.” What discerning, penetrating power there is in God’s Word! Everything is there to teach us, to correct us and to inspire within us a strong desire to serve our God Jehovah. He has not left us without the needed counsel and direction to cope with the difficult problems that confront us daily in this age of lawlessness. He has anticipated our needs. The prophet Isaiah, after describing under inspiration the prosperous spiritual condition that would be enjoyed by true servants of God in the “last days,” foretold the unique way in which Jehovah would lead his people. “Your Grand Instructor will no longer hide himself, and your eyes must become eyes seeing your Grand Instructor. And your own ears will hear a word behind you saying: ‘This is the way. Walk in it, you people,’ in case you people should go to the right or in case you should go to the left.” (Isa. 30:20, 21) What today is this “word behind” us? None other than that of our Grand Instructor Jehovah speaking to us through his written Word and through his organization today. When we listen with discernment and get our eyes of understanding open, it is as though we are hearing and seeing our Grand Instructor face to face. His Word clearly illuminates our path so that there is no doubt as to how and where we should walk. No turning aside to the right or to the left when we pay attention to it, but a marching straight ahead in the way that leads to life.
3. What does Jehovah expect of us in the way of advancement?
3 Jehovah has every right to expect steady advancement on the part of all who come to know him. When we study his Word, we learn of his undeserved kindness that he has extended to mankind and the provisions that he has made for our eternal welfare. He provides for us the climate of love in which to grow spiritually. He gives us time to take in knowledge, to renew our minds, to make a dedication to him and, yes, to press on to Christian maturity. He does not expect this in one day, but he does expect us to make steady progress in spiritual growth. And in making advancement, often certain ways of life and attitudes of mind need to be altered or sometimes given up altogether in order to let God’s Word have full expression in our lives. Consider the good counsel at James 1:21, 22: “Hence put away all filthiness and that superfluous thing, moral badness, and accept with mildness the implanting of the word which is able to save your souls. However, become doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves with false reasoning.”
4. Why do some make little or no advancement spiritually?
4 Millions of persons today fail to respond to God’s Word when they are reached with the message of the Kingdom. They make no advancement in the narrow way that leads to life. Some respond initially but, due to the cares of this life or other factors, slow down in their advancement. (Matt. 7:13, 14; Luke 8:11-14; Heb. 6:1) This is not usually because they deny the truth or because they are not believing certain doctrines. Often you will find that personal or domestic problems have arisen, and a closer examination likely will show that these problems came about because of not applying Bible principles fully in their lives. A certain man asked Jesus, “Lord, are those who are being saved few?” Jesus responded: “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.” (Luke 13:23-25) It is not easy to keep on advancing by responding to the counsel in God’s Word on how we are to live, yet Jehovah’s “commandments are not burdensome” and we are confidently assured that the yoke that Jesus invites us to take upon us is indeed light.—1 John 5:3, 4; Matt. 11:28-30.
5. To avoid advancing into an unwise marriage, what does God’s Word counsel?
5 For example, one may desire to marry. There is the instruction in God’s Word that we should marry “only in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 7:39; 2 Cor. 6:15) Yet it sometimes happens that one becomes interested in another of the opposite sex who is not yet a dedicated Christian like oneself. Emotions take over and one begins to justify in one’s mind a course contrary to God’s Word. Marriage to an unbeliever could be the result, bringing unnecessary heartaches and conditions that could influence the believer to compromise on his faith. One’s avoiding or breaking off such relationships may bring to one momentary hurt, but how thankful one will be later if one does comply with God’s Word and advance in the right direction.
6, 7. For the Christian family to make proper advancement, what principles should guide? (b) What is needed if children are to continue in the way to life?
6 Consider, too, the principles involving headship. How happy the family that has a loving head as husband and father, with the mother and children respecting his headship! But how distressing it is when the wife tries to dominate the household or the husband abuses his headship and becomes more of an unloving dictator. Family anarchy results. There is little happiness. The family becomes spiritually sick, and soon all want to go their separate ways.—Eph. 5:21-23; Col. 3:18, 19.
7 God’s Word has much to say regarding the training of children, too. The direction in which they advance depends much on the loving, but firm training given by their parents based on God’s Word. Discipline where needed is not held back. What a satisfying thing it is to Christian parents, and to others of us too, as we see the young people grow up and stick with the truth and God’s organization rather than drift away and be swallowed up by this world.—Eph. 6:1-4; Col. 3:20, 21; Prov. 1:8; 13:24; 22:6.
8. What personal bad habits might be hindering the advancement of some?
8 Spiritual advancement can be hindered by many things. Perhaps you have allowed some bad habits or practices to keep control over you after your coming out of the world. For example, the habit of smoking, or other uses of tobacco, which everyone knows is detrimental to one’s health, has a strong hold on some and, due to lack of self-control and not exercising strong faith in Jehovah, they permit this bad habit to continue to dominate them, leading to a slowing down physically and spiritually as well as to a bad conscience. Where the will is weak in matters of this nature, this is often reflected in handling other matters of serious concern. Then it may be that the overindulgence in food or drink, which dulls the senses, is slowing you down. Excessive pleasures satisfy the desires of the flesh, but gradually encroach on our time and energy so that we become lovers of pleasure more than real lovers of God. (2 Tim. 3:4) The Bible shows that there is a great conflict between the flesh and the spirit. How we think determines which one wins out.—Rom. 8:12, 13; 12:1, 2.
9. How important are our thoughts and speech?
9 Worldly thinking and language are definite hindrances to advancement. God’s Word admonishes: “Let fornication and uncleanness of every kind or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people; neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting, things which are not becoming, but rather the giving of thanks.” If we respond to this clear-cut counsel from our Grand Instructor, we will cleanse our minds of any obscene or unclean thoughts and follow the good counsel at Philippians 4:8, to think on things that are of serious concern, righteous, chaste, lovable, well spoken of, virtuous and praiseworthy.—Eph. 5:3, 4; 4:29-31; 1 Thess. 4:3-8.
10. Show how bad association can slow down our advancement.
10 Then, how is our association with others? Is it the right kind? “Bad associations spoil useful habits.” The attitudes, the ambitions, the ways of life of worldly ones cannot help but influence us if we let ourselves be drawn into their close company. Make it your goal to be with those who can build you up spiritually and who will not tear down the hope, the spirituality and the good conscience that you have before Jehovah.—1 Cor. 15:33; Jas. 4:4.
11. What should be our view toward money and material possessions?
11 And as we make our living in this world, there are things to which we need to give attention here, too. First, are we getting so involved that we begin to taste the love of money and the power it brings us? Remember the Bible’s counsel that many, in reaching out for this love, have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains. Being content with necessities and having godly devotion with self-sufficiency result in great gain.—1 Tim. 6:6-10.
12. (a) In what ways might activities on our secular jobs hinder our progress to maturity? (b) What Scriptural principles will help us keep the proper perspective?
12 Then we are counseled to be honest and upright, as we do our secular work to gain necessities. Is what we are doing legal? Is it honorable? Is it compatible with Christian principles of neutrality? (Eph. 4:25, 28; Isa. 2:4) Is it merely a means to support us and our families in the Kingdom ministry rather than our chief occupation both mentally and physically? While it is getting to be more and more difficult for true Christians to make a living without being visibly identified with the Devil’s beastly political organization, with its violent nationalism, we do have to remain neutral and avoid lending our minds and hands to its purposes in opposition to God. (Rev. 13:16, 17) If there is a compromising on these principles, then there is a dampening of our zeal; we begin to feel unfit for Jehovah’s holy service. Our advancement is slowed down, possibly causing us to come to a halt or even to turn aside. How fitting Paul’s counsel at 2 Corinthians 7:1: “Therefore, since we have these promises, beloved ones, let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in God’s fear”! Wisely he admonishes those who want to make advancement: “Put off every weight and the sin that easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”—Heb. 12:1.
13. What may be necessary in arranging our affairs to put spiritual things first?
13 As we make advancement and quicken our pace just this side of the battle of Armageddon, we may find it somewhat difficult to get everything necessary into our schedules. Our meetings, our personal study, our ministerial activity, all must have first place. If they are not fitting into our schedules well, it may be that our schedules are too filled with time-consuming pursuits of little or no real profit to us, or it may be that we have not organized our affairs so as to accomplish the important things first, before we go on to less vital matters. We are told at Ephesians 5:15, 16: “So keep strict watch that how you walk [yes, how you make advancement] is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked.” Lest we feel there is too much to do theocratically, we are wisely admonished: “Consequently, 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.”—1 Cor. 15:58.
EXAMPLES OF ADVANCEMENT
14. (a) Who was Jehonadab, and how did he respond to Jehu’s invitation? (b) What is pictured by Jehonadab’s ready response?
14 Since the Bible tells us that things written aforetime were written for our instruction, let us consider for a few moments some examples of faithful servants in the past who have made advancement manifest by responding to God’s Word. You likely will remember Jehonadab, the son of Rechab. He was not a natural Israelite, but he was zealous for true worship. The account at 2 Kings 10:15, 16 tells us that he went out to meet King Jehu as he was riding furiously on his way to slaughter the Baal worshipers in Israel. Jehu saw him and wondered if he too would want to go along, asking: “Is your heart upright with me, just as my own heart is with your heart?” No hesitation in answer here! “To this Jehonadab said: ‘It is.’” Immediately he was lifted into the chariot, and off they went. He responded positively to the invitation to associate publicly with Jehu and those taking the lead in advancing true worship. Just as the remaining ones of the anointed must keep imitating Jehu, the Lord’s “other sheep” today, whom Jehonadab pictured, must continue responding as he did. They want to associate actively with the Lord’s anointed in the earth today in proclaiming Jehovah’s judgments against the Devil and all of his supporters, soon to be destroyed. What a fine, positive example we have in Jehonadab!
15. (a) What did the prophet Nathan show was the real reason why David allowed himself to fall into a course of sin? (b) How is David an example of any who are in need of correction?
15 Consider now an example from a little different point of view. David is remembered for his perfect heart devotion to Jehovah, but we remember that David sinned terribly on one occasion. What can we learn from this incident in God’s Word to help us in making advancement? First, look at 2 Samuel 12:7-12, and you will see how courageous the prophet Nathan was in telling David of his sin; and do you notice, in 2Sa 12 verse 9, how it is that David allowed himself not only to commit adultery, but to commit murder? “Why did you despise the word of Jehovah by doing what is bad in his eyes?” David had specifically disregarded the sixth, the seventh and the tenth commandments, regarding murder, adultery and coveting another man’s wife. But what was David’s reaction? Did he arrogantly tell the prophet to mind his own business and then continue making advancement in the wrong direction? The answer is in 2Sa 12 verse 13: “David now said to Nathan: ‘I have sinned against Jehovah.’” Thus David acknowledged his sin immediately and responded to correction. His heartfelt prayer to God for forgiveness and restoration, as contained in Psalm 51, was the result. (See the Ps 51 superscription of this psalm.) The question now presents itself, How do we respond to counsel when it is administered to us? Do we humbly acknowledge wrong and submit to discipline so that we can make proper advancement again? Like David, let us respond to God’s Word, even though it hurts at the time, remembering that ‘Jehovah disciplines those whom he loves.’—Heb. 12:4-11.
16. How did the apostles set a fine example for us today in responding to invitations to enlarge our privileges?
16 As to acceptance and ready response to God’s direction, we have a fine example in the apostles. The account at Matthew 4:18-22 tells us that shortly after the beginning of his public ministry Jesus approached Simon and Andrew his brother, who made their living by fishing on the Sea of Galilee, saying: “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Did they offer excuses as to why they could not do so? No, the record tells us, “At once abandoning the nets, they followed him.” Right afterward there was a similar response from James and John: “At once leaving the boat and their father, they followed him.” Are we willing to make sacrifices such as the apostles did in order to keep the ministry in first place in our lives? Are we willing to give up a good secular job, as the apostles gave up their fishing business, and be content with the necessities of life in order to pioneer or to serve where the need for Kingdom preachers is greater? Do we recognize the voice of our Grand Instructor when we receive invitations through The Watchtower and Kingdom Ministry to expand our ministry? What fine opportunities we have to make advancement today!
17. What counsel from God’s Word is given to young servants of Jehovah to ensure proper advancement?
17 Young ministers of Jehovah have often been directed to Timothy’s example of advancement in the ministry. Timothy listened to his mother and grandmother who believed God’s Word. He responded to counsel from older brothers such as Paul, who wrote: “Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons.” Do you young folks respond to your Grand Instructor in the days of your youth as Timothy did? Do you pay attention to Jehovah’s motherlike organization so as to make proper advancement? Are you obedient to your earthly parents? Do you accept counsel from older ones in the organization? Consider the wise counsel from Jehovah, leading to life: “Observe, O my son, the commandment of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother. For the commandment is a lamp, and a light the law is, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life.”—1 Tim. 4:15; Prov. 6:20, 23.
18, 19. As young brothers and sisters grow to maturity, what fine privileges are open to them?
18 Then as you grow up in the discipline and authoritative advice of Jehovah, how are you reaching out for additional privileges of service? Are you like Timothy in this respect, too? Timothy, by now already an overseer in his youth, responded to the fatherly counsel of Paul: “Keep on giving these commands and teaching them. Let no man ever look down on your youth. On the contrary, become an example to the faithful ones in speaking, in conduct, in love, in faith, in chasteness. While I am coming, continue applying yourself to public reading, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not be neglecting the gift in you.”—1 Tim. 4:11-14.
19 What grand rewarding privileges are open to all young brothers and sisters in Jehovah’s organization today, such as the pioneer service, going to serve in one of the Bethel homes or becoming a missionary after attending Gilead school! Let your advancement be manifest as Timothy let his. How would you like to receive this recommendation from one like the apostle Paul, as stated regarding Timothy? “For I have no one else of a disposition like his who will genuinely care for the things pertaining to you. For all the others are seeking their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. But you know the proof he gave of himself, that like a child with a father he slaved with me in furtherance of the good news.” What a fine recommendation! What an excellent example we have in Timothy!—Phil. 2:20-22.
20. In what practical ways can we show that we are making continual progress?
20 There are so many ways younger and older ones alike can make advancement. It is reflected in our willingness to take on a home Bible study, whereas before we might have felt unqualified to conduct one or thought we did not have enough time for it. It is manifest too in the way we make opportunities to assist one of our brothers or sisters who has become weak spiritually. Every day privileges are before us, inviting us to take hold of them and contribute to the advancement of true worship. We will not hold back if we respond to God’s Word and look for opportunities to let love bestow a blessing.
21. What should be evident about us, whether we have been associated with God’s organization many years or only a short time?
21 The question presents itself now, Where are we at the moment in our Christian advancement? Have we just started in “The Way,” or have we been associated for many years? Are we young in years, or have we grown old in Jehovah’s service? Have we progressed in spiritual growth, or do we yet find that we are occupied with the elementary things of the truth? No matter what our circumstances or how far we have progressed already, are we conscious of steady spiritual growth? Do others around us see our advancement manifest, not to praise us or to be envious, but that they might be encouraged and stimulated to increased faith and good works? Let your family, those in your book study group, yes, all in the congregation, see your steady advancement! Make the hearts of the servants glad as they see you growing to maturity and not needing special help week by week, rather proving to be of help to others. Paul admonished: “At any rate, to what extent we have made progress, let us go on walking orderly in this same routine. Unitedly become imitators of me, brothers, and keep your eye on those who are walking in a way that accords with the example you have in us.”—Phil. 3:16, 17; Heb. 6:1.
22. What will be the happy reward of those who keep making advancement in harmony with God’s Word?
22 And when we speak of advancement, we must remember that all the time that we are moving ahead in a spiritual sense we are also moving forward as to time. Here we are right on the very threshold of entry into God’s new order. If we keep right on making steady advancement, one day soon we will have the grand privilege of going through the coming features of the great tribulation, and then looking around us to see that there is nothing left of the Devil’s wicked, vicious system of things. It will have just melted away in the heat of Armageddon. None will be living except those who made their advancement manifest by responding to God’s Word. How happy we will be that we heeded daily Jehovah’s counsel at Proverbs 3:1, 2: “My son, my law do not forget, and my commandments may your heart observe, because length of days and years of life and peace will be added to you”!
[Picture on page 203]
Children advance in the right direction when parents train them to respond to God’s Word
Why Is Your Ministry Successful?
Why Is Your Ministry Successful?
“In that case you will prove successful if you take care to carry out the regulations and the judicial decisions that Jehovah commanded.”—1 Chron. 22:13.
1. How is success measured today, in contrast to the Bible’s description of most Christian believers?
SUCCESS is measured today in terms of how much education, money, popularity or skill a person has acquired during his lifetime. How happy we can be that God does not require any of these things in abundance in order for us to be successful in the Christian ministry! While the apostle Paul was a learned man, trained at the feet of the eminent teacher Gamaliel, he nevertheless recognized the humble position of most Christian believers. “You behold his calling of you, brothers, that not many wise in a fleshly way were called, not many powerful, not many of noble birth; but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put the wise men to shame; and God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put the strong things to shame; and God chose the ignoble things of the world and the things looked down upon, the things that are not, that he might bring to nothing the things that are, in order that no flesh might boast in the sight of God.” (1 Cor. 1:26-29) In measuring success in our ministry, therefore, it is vital that we look at matters from God’s standpoint.
2. Why does limited education not disqualify one for the ministry?
2 Basic education is useful in the ministry, but one should not be discouraged or feel disqualified for the ministry if his secular education has been limited. It is not how much you know that counts with God, but how much you love the truth that has been planted in your heart so that you nurture it and make it grow. It is just as true today as in Paul’s day: “The world through its wisdom did not get to know God.” (1 Cor. 1:21) Remember that many of Jesus’ disciples, including the prominent apostles Peter and John, “were men unlettered and ordinary.” (Acts 4:13) When the humble followers of Jesus returned to him after being instructed and sent out, we are told of his response on hearing of their good results in the ministry: “In that very hour he became overjoyed in the holy spirit and said: ‘I publicly praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have carefully hidden these things from wise and intellectual ones, and have revealed them to babes. Yes, O Father, because to do thus came to be the way approved by you’”!—Luke 10:21.
3. Show why wealth and popularity are not proper standards for judging success in the ministry?
3 As far as wealth and popularity are concerned, right away we must disqualify them as standards for judging success in the Christian ministry. Material possessions and personal prestige carry no weight with God. The clergy of Christendom seek both and, in doing so, imitate the religious leaders in Jesus’ day. “Now the Pharisees, who were money lovers, were listening to all these things, and they began to sneer at him.” Jesus said: “All the works they do they do to be viewed by men . . . They like the most prominent place at evening meals and the front seats in the synagogues, and the greetings in the market places and to be called Rabbi by men.” Jesus instructed his disciples to be content with the necessities of life, to be humble, to avoid giving titles to men and to be servants of one another. Their motive was to ‘store up treasures in heaven’ and to gain the favor of God, not of men. The poor and the unpopular were welcomed by Jesus.—Luke 16:14; 15:1-7; Matt. 23:5-12; 6:19, 20, 31-34.
4. What part does skill play in a successful ministry?
4 Now, as to skill, this is something that the world makes much of, and, indeed, many extraordinary feats are accomplished with skilled minds and hands. Success in the ministry requires skill too, but the art of being a good teacher of God’s Word is not too difficult for anyone to master. While it takes many years of study and practice to become a skilled surgeon or engineer, and those who qualify are few, this is not true of those who wish to be skillful ministers. Not that it does not take much study and putting into regular practice the things learned. It does, but the unique thing about the ministry is that one can begin to share in it after only a short time of study. When one begins to learn the good things from God’s Word and sees the importance of teaching these to others, there is no reason for him to hold back in speaking these good things to his neighbor. He, of course, should be careful as a novice that he does not teach error unwittingly, so he should listen closely to instructions from more experienced ministers while getting on-the-job training. Before long he can make a dedication to God and get baptized and become a skillful ordained minister in teaching others.
5. (a) How shall we arrive at the right standards for judging success in the ministry? (b) What factors, besides the making of disciples, made the ministry of Jesus a complete success?
5 If education, wealth, popularity and even skill are not the most important factors in measuring success in the ministry, then by what standards shall we determine if our ministry is successful? Perhaps it is the number of converts made, or is there something more? By examining the ministry of Christ Jesus and the instructions that he gave for carrying on the ministry after his ascension to heaven, we will get the answer. As to the making of converts, it is interesting to observe that there was a time when Jesus’ ministry gave all the outward appearances of having failed. When he was arrested, all of his disciples abandoned him, although this had been foretold by him. (John 16:32) However, when the holy spirit was poured out at Pentecost 33 C.E., there were 120 faithful disciples awaiting instructions in an upper room in Jerusalem. That very same day the apostle Peter spoke to a great crowd of Jews, and from among them 3,000 more put faith in Christ Jesus and were begotten by holy spirit. From that day forward many were added to the Christian congregation. Jesus manifestly had been very successful in gathering together the first members of the Christian congregation. It must be remembered, however, that only a limited number of the Jews accepted him as the Messiah. There was no mass conversion. The success of Jesus’ ministry was measured by more than the number of disciples added. Indeed, this was secondary. He put the emphasis on glorifying his heavenly Father. Moreover, by his faithful course in everything, including all the tests and opposition brought by the Devil, Jesus proved his unbreakable devotion to his heavenly Father and branded the great Adversary a liar. By the standards set by Jehovah, the ministry of Jesus was a complete success.
TODAY’S STANDARDS FOR MEASURING SUCCESS
6. Have the commission and objectives of our ministry changed in this modern twentieth century?
6 Now that we are far removed from the first century C.E. of the early Christian congregation, one might think the standards of measuring success in the ministry have changed. Actually they are the same. This is true because our commission and our objectives in the ministry remain the same. No new instructions have been issued for giving the final witness other than those contained in God’s Word. By checking his Word closely we will be able to measure the success of our ministry. Moreover, where we find that success is limited in our own witness-making, we will be able to copy more closely the example of the Master Teacher, Christ Jesus, and the early disciples whom he taught.
7. (a) What is the first of the four reasons for faithful preaching in this “time of the end”? (b) What is the second?
7 As in Jesus’ day, there are today basically four reasons why we continue to preach in this “time of the end,” and each ought to be considered in determining the success of our ministry. As we consider each one, we invite you to see how your own ministry measures up. While Jehovah is the Judge, we are sure you will find cause for encouragement where faithful performance is found; and if you find places where your ministry needs strengthening, you will be able to give these due attention. (1) Just as Jesus preached a message of salvation, so Jehovah’s witnesses feel keenly their obligation to “make disciples of people of all the nations,” as commanded by Christ Jesus. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Right-hearted ones must hear the message preached if they are to learn of the narrow way to life and turn off the broad road leading to destruction. (2) In contrast, we are also preaching a message of warning in the midst of all the inhabitants of the earth regarding the coming day of God’s executional judgment against wrongdoers.—Matt. 7:13, 14; Ezek. 3:17-19; Rev. 14:6, 7.
8. How can we be encouraged in examining our ministry in relationship to the first two reasons for preaching God’s message to the people?
8 Hence, we are commissioned to preach not only “good news to the meek ones” and “the year of good will on the part of Jehovah” but also the “day of vengeance on the part of our God.” (Isa. 61:1, 2; Luke 4:16-21) Like God’s faithful servant Ezekiel, we must today continue to preach to persons “whether they will hear or will refrain,” and this must be done in the face of opposition. (Ezek. 2:5-7; 3:4, 7-9) Boldly and yet with tactfulness and genuine love we will declare the judgment message, knowing in advance that the vast majority will not listen, and yet some who initially oppose may open their eyes. Are you faithfully using all your opportunities to preach the good news and conscientiously to teach those who respond to the message? If so, there is cause for encouragement, and you are assured by Jehovah that he will grant success and strengthen you to continue without letup. It has been the privilege of Jehovah’s modern-day witnesses to help thousands of sheeplike ones to the side of salvation, the right side of the King-Shepherd, Christ Jesus, while causing goatlike opposers to manifest that they deserve to be placed on his left side for destruction.—Matt. 25:31-46.
9. What third reason for faithful preaching is given, and why is this important in determining success?
9 A third and most important reason why we must continue to preach is (3) that this gives opportunity for Jehovah’s servants on earth to demonstrate their love and their integrity to Jehovah. It is one thing to say that we love God and our neighbor, but it is another thing to prove it. Moreover, it is in the process of proving what we think we are at heart that we find places for improvement and perfecting our love and integrity. We learn dependence upon God. (2 Cor. 12:9) We see the need to be tactful, patient, merciful. Going out regularly in the preaching work might in some respects be a trial to some, but we must remember that trials can result in endurance and help us in perfecting holiness: “Let us exult while in tribulations, since we know that tribulation produces endurance; endurance, in turn, an approved condition; the approved condition, in turn, hope, and the hope does not lead to disappointment; because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy spirit, which was given us.” (Rom. 5:3-5) Those who are veterans in the house-to-house work will tell you without any hesitation that there is no substitute for the ministry to sharpen our appreciation, to perfect our obedience, to nurture our love for God and our neighbor, to dispel the fear of man, to show what we truly are at heart.—2 Tim. 4:2-5.
10. What satisfaction comes in being faithful in our assignments?
10 How satisfying it is to know that we have done what we have been assigned to do! Jesus in prayer to his Father said: “I have glorified you on the earth, having finished the work you have given me to do.” (John 17:4) How thrilled at heart the man in linen must have been in reporting, “I have done just as you have commanded me,” following the marking of all who were in line for salvation. (Ezek. 9:1-4, 11) Have you obediently and courageously made opportunities to share in the ministry despite family opposition, a tendency toward shyness, failing health or any other interference or distraction that might present itself? Have you allowed the various situations encountered in the ministry to increase your love for Jehovah and your fellowman, even your enemies? Are you better able to face difficulties and trials as a result? If so, in this respect too, you can say that, as far as personal effects are concerned, your ministry is a success.
11. What is the fourth and most important reason for faithful preaching?
11 And, finally, as we consider the reasons why we continue to preach, we have the fourth and most important of all reasons and that is (4) to make known the name and purposes of Jehovah. Jesus made known Jehovah’s name to his disciples and taught them to pray, “Let your name be sanctified.” (Matt. 6:9; John 17:26) At least sixty times in Ezekiel’s prophecy alone, we note the words of God that persons on earth will “have to know that I am Jehovah.” In the modern fulfillment of Exodus 9:16, it is Jehovah’s purpose that his name be “declared in all the earth.” His name involves his reputation, and others must have the opportunity to learn about the Creator, that he is loving and merciful, and yet those who choose to ignore him and spurn his love will be denied the right to live in his new system of things.
12. Why is it vital that we work for the vindication of Jehovah’s name, and what encouragement comes to those who do?
12 Without their understanding the great issue involving the adversary, Satan the Devil, many have blamed God for wickedness. Without cause his name has been reproached, he has been lied against and misrepresented. Millions of false gods have received the honor and respect due Him, some persons even in this modern day worshiping the Devil himself. Who is the true God? Indeed, does God live at all? In fulfilling our role as Jehovah’s witnesses, may it never happen that any one of us refuses to speak up in behalf of Jehovah our God in the court arena of the world to let all men know that he is the true God and that he not only lives but also will see to it that his purposes are carried out! Have you not only prayed for Jehovah’s name to be sanctified but also acted in harmony with your prayer by speaking of Jehovah’s greatness and all his wonderful works? If so, then in this respect, too, your ministry is successful as being the right kind of ministry in the sight of God and is a sweet, acceptable sacrifice of praise to Him.—Isa. 43:10; Heb. 13:15.
FINDING SUCCESS DESPITE OBSTACLE
13. (a) What should be our attitude even though most do not listen to the message? (b) How is our ministry nevertheless not in vain?
13 Nevertheless, we must recognize that there are a number of factors that can bring discouragement to us individually and make us feel that our ministry is not successful. When we learn the truths of God’s Word, we are eager to share them with our relatives and friends, and then go into the community from house to house. But many we find do not share our enthusiasm and love for these new-found truths. Indeed, in some territories we may go to quite a few doors before we are able to talk long enough to present our sermon and introduce Bible literature that will help them in a study of Jehovah’s Word. We may begin to wonder, “What’s wrong?” But as we stop for a moment and weigh matters in the light of God’s Word, we realize that the opposition is not against us personally but against the message we bear. As we reflect, we may see ways to sharpen our presentations so as to speak more convincingly and create a greater response to the message, but the important thing is not to quit. The satisfaction from our ministry, despite these incidents, comes when we realize that we have faithfully endeavored to give the witness. Those who refuse to listen will be without excuse in saying they did not have opportunity to hear. But what a distinct pleasure it is to find here and there a hearing ear! These occasions more than make up for all the times we are turned away.
14. How will reasonable goals help ensure success in the ministry?
14 Setting reasonable objectives or goals in the ministry contributes to our success. The goals should not be too high, so that, if they are not reached, this is a cause for discouragement. On the other hand, the goals should not be so low that we are being content with mere token service. The objectives, of course, should be within our capabilities as determined by health, family circumstances and other factors. Can you make adjustments so as to be a preacher of the good news full time? If so, this would be a reasonable goal for you. On the other hand, perhaps you are confined to your home due to sickness. In this case, your going from house to house may be quite limited, but, then, there will be opportunities to witness to those who visit, and you will be able to use the telephone and letters to reach others with the Kingdom message. Good scheduling and following through with determination will aid you to reach the reasonable goal of activity in the ministry that you have set for yourself. Remember, too, others see your faithfulness in the ministry under these circumstances and are encouraged to greater activity themselves. Moreover, success in the ministry is also reflected in your application of Christian principles, so that you are pleasant, showing perseverance and a positive frame of mind rather than letting your infirmity cause you to be unpleasant or difficult to be around.
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