The Watchtower, October 1, 1969

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The Watchtower — October 1, 1969

Source: jw.org

Contents

The Blessing of Having Much to Do

Do You Continue to Make Progress?

Pay Attention to “The Prophetic Word”

A Prophetic Pattern for Our Day

Christians Maintain the Assault on False Religion

European “Peace on Earth” Assemblies Build Faith

Questions From Readers

Announcements

The Blessing of Having Much to Do

IS HAVING much to do a blessing? How can that be? some may ask. Does not the Bible tell us that work is a curse that God placed upon man? Unfortunately that is one of the popular misconceptions about the Bible that is held by some who profess to understand it.

Thus Professor W. R. Bowie, in commenting on Genesis 3:17-19, states: “Work is represented as the curse laid upon Adam and his descendants. To have to work . . . seemed to the human instinct to be the mark of punishment. . . . The men who shaped the traditions which have come down in Genesis were here trying to interpret experience and the good and bad they found in it. The necessity of labor was something they did not like; so they regarded it as evil. It felt like punishment, so they concluded that it was punishment.”—The Interpreter’s Bible, Vol. 1, p. 511.

After Adam had disobeyed, God said to him: “Cursed is the ground on your account. . . . In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken.” The ground was cursed, but is work itself a curse?—Gen. 3:17-19.

Man, when first created and perfect, was given work to do. “Jehovah God proceeded to take the man and settle him in the garden of Eden to cultivate it and to take care of it.” This garden of Eden was a vast park, large enough to accommodate some of all the species of land animals that God created, for Adam named them all without leaving Eden. To take care of such a large park and cultivate it meant work. But it was not grievous, backbreaking labor. It was a joy. Such work was not a curse.—Gen. 2:15.

That this is the right conclusion can be seen from the rest of the Holy Scriptures. They tell us to do with our very power what our hands find to do, for in the grave we can no longer work. (Eccl. 9:10) The lazy one “will be of little means,” the Bible says, “but the hand of the diligent one is what will make one rich.” (Prov. 10:4) We are warned that the lazy one “is a brother to the one causing ruin,” chief of whom is none other than Satan himself! (Prov. 18:9) Well did King Solomon say: “I have come to know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good during one’s life; and also that every man should eat and indeed drink and see good for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.”—Eccl. 3:12, 13.

Jesus Christ, when upon earth, stated that his Father kept on working and that he also worked. (John 5:17) And repeatedly the apostle Paul counseled others to work as well as telling of his own labors: “Do not loiter at your business. Be aglow with the spirit.” “Let the stealer steal no more, but rather let him do hard work, doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need.”—Rom. 12:11; Eph. 4:28; 2 Cor. 11:27.

Among the blessings of having much to do is that it helps to keep us out of trouble. This principle is supported by the words of the apostle Paul that young widows should marry and rear children because having much to do would be a safeguard to them.—1 Tim. 2:15; 5:14.

Having much to do is also a blessing in that it helps to make time fly by fast. This is a fact especially appreciated by those retired because of their age. Without having anything to do or having too little to do they are apt to become frustrated, bored.

And it should especially be observed that having much to do is also a blessing in that with it goes the satisfaction of having accomplished much. But, of course, it is taken for granted that the work here being considered is honorable, honest toil. Those who work at robbing, cheating or otherwise selfishly exploiting others cannot expect any blessings from having much of such things to do, however much they may at the time benefit materially from it!

It may well be said that no group today is busier than the Christian witnesses of Jehovah, They do much private Bible study, attend five weekly congregation meetings and spend much time each month preaching the good news of God’s kingdom and making disciples of people, in addition to making honest provision of material things for themselves and their families. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) Having plenty to do in the Lord’s work serves as a protection from many of the snares of the world, the flesh and the Devil. They also have the joy and satisfaction of bringing honor to Jehovah’s name and bringing comfort to mourning truth-seekers. And they have the promise of the reward of eternal life.—1 Cor. 15:58; 2 Cor. 8:21; 1 Tim. 5:8.

Should you visit an average congregation of these Witnesses and get acquainted with them you would find that they are truly a happy people. You would also likely discover that the happiest among them are those having the most to do in preaching and teaching God’s Word to others. This is bound to bring many blessings, for there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.—Acts 20:35.

Not that the Witnesses are fanatics or extremists. They are reasonable. In particular, family men with positions of responsibility in the congregation are careful to be balanced in these matters. They recognize their responsibility to spend time with their families. They let their families share in their activities as much as possible, and especially do they make certain to study the Bible together. They also see to it that recreation is a family affair.

Can the Bible be charged with terming work a curse? Absolutely not! Is there blessing in having much to do? Yes, there is, if we are doing the right kind of work and balancing it with our other needs and the needs of our loved ones.

Do You Continue to Make Progress?

What progress is of greatest importance? How can it be made?

IN ALL levels of society there is interest in progress. Governments institute programs for the cultural, educational and economic progress of their citizens. Business corporations are always on the lookout for progressive-minded men to serve in administrative positions. And what parent is not joyful in noting commendation on the “Progress Report” his child brings home from school?

So it matters not where we look today, we observe that people are interested in progress. However, a brief reflection reveals that the progress the majority are interested in is of an economic or materialistic nature. Little or no emphasis is placed on moral or spiritual values. As a result, we are witnessing on a worldwide scale what happened to the ancient nation of Israel when too much emphasis was placed on the material side of life.

Appreciating the fact that materially prosperous persons may readily forget God and become self-confident, God’s prophet Moses warned that nation as it stood ready to take possession of the rich land that God had promised it:

“Watch out for yourself that you may not forget Jehovah your God so as not to keep his commandments and his judicial decisions and his statutes that I am commanding you today; for fear that you may eat and indeed satisfy yourself, and you may build good houses and indeed dwell in them, and your herd and your flock may increase, and silver and gold may increase for you, and all that is yours may increase; and your heart may indeed be lifted up and you may indeed forget Jehovah your God.”—Deut. 8:11-14.

Later Bible history tells us that this is exactly what happened: “Israel began forgetting his Maker.” (Hos. 8:14) Why, they even began worshiping a materialistic false god named Baal, attributing their material prosperity to him! So, instead of growing in favor with the true God, Jehovah, the nation retrogressed. Or, as Jehovah himself expressed it, “they became backward in direction and not forward.” (Jer. 7:24) For failing to make spiritual progress due to lack of faith the nation was finally rejected by God.—Heb. 3:19.

Concerning the judgments executed by God on that nation of Israel the Christian apostle Paul wrote: “Now these things went on befalling them as examples, and they were written for a warning to us.” (1 Cor. 10:11) Now what warning should we learn from that nation that “became backward in direction and not forward”? It is the lesson that if we do not continue to grow in faith toward God, to make spiritual progress, we will merit God’s disapproval.

So, are you making spiritual progress? Are you growing in faith?

FAITH ESSENTIAL TO PROGRESS

At the mention of faith many are prone to respond: “Oh, I have faith in God!” Yet many of these have not even read the Bible, the Word of God. Therefore, what they may know about God is simply what others have told them. And in this day and age when so many are misrepresenting God we are justified in asking, “Do such ones really have an accurate knowledge of God?” Usually they do not. If we desire accurate knowledge it is vital that we study the Bible personally.

True faith is firm conviction based on an accurate knowledge of God’s Word, which is the truth. (Rom. 10:17; John 17:17) The Bible defines true faith as “the assured expectation of things hoped for, the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld.” Real faith is founded on “realities,” not hearsay.—Heb. 11:1.

Thus, without an accurate knowledge of God’s Word it is impossible to have the faith with which to please God. Whether you continue to make spiritual progress or not really depends upon the depth of your appreciation of God and of his provisions for life. Such appreciation grows in relation to the knowledge you gain of him. Hence, what are you doing to increase your knowledge of God so as to deepen your appreciation, so as to build your faith?

NEED TO INCREASE IN ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE

You may have some knowledge of the Bible because you have read it. Or you may even have studied the Bible with those who distribute this journal, the Christian witnesses of Jehovah. And perhaps you have attended some of their meetings at the local Kingdom Hall. When you reflect on your present knowledge of the Bible as compared with the knowledge you possessed at the time of your first contact with Jehovah’s witnesses, very likely you will find that you have increased in accurate Bible knowledge. But are you continuing to make spiritual advancement? Do you as yet “have faith to the preserving alive of the soul”? (Heb. 10:39) Or have you allowed the anxieties of life to interfere with your spiritual progress?

Jesus, in his illustration of the sower, showed that there would be those who would hear the word of truth, but who would allow “the anxiety of this system of things and the deceptive power of riches” to interfere with their spiritual progress. (Matt. 13:22) While it is true that in most parts of the earth it is becoming more difficult to provide the necessities of life, is this reason to allow a ‘choking of the word’? Jesus showed that those who are overly concerned with daily necessities, such as what they will wear and what they will eat, are really lacking faith. (Matt. 6:30) If we have the same desire as Jesus’ apostles, who said, “Give us more faith,” then we will not neglect our spiritual needs because of anxiety over material things.—Luke 17:5.

Also, there are many persons who love God’s Word but who are allowing relatives or friends to discourage them from taking the study of God’s Word seriously. It may be said that such persons are hindered from making spiritual progress because they are caught in a snare, for “trembling at men is what lays a snare.” (Prov. 29:25) Are you caught in that snare? If so, then you need to be reminded that it is not man, but Jehovah God who “should be the object of your fear, and he should be the One causing you to tremble.”—Isa. 8:13.

We should have a reverent fear of God, a fear to displease him. “Jehovah is finding pleasure in those fearing him,” but of the one who “shrinks back” he says, “my soul has no pleasure in him.” (Ps. 147:11; Heb. 10:38) So obviously there cannot be a shrinking back or compromising if we are going to receive the approval of the One who can reward us with everlasting life.

Those who are meeting successfully the challenges to their faith appreciate the need to develop their faith through regular study of the Bible and through regular association with God’s name people. They recognize the need to be “nourished with the words of the faith” in order to grow firm in faith. (1 Tim. 4:6) In their desire to “grow to salvation” they have formed “a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word.” (1 Pet. 2:2) They are not satisfied with infrequent study of the Bible or with occasional feeding at God’s spiritual table in the congregational meetings. If you are going to “go on . . . increasing in the accurate knowledge of God,” you must follow their fine example of faith.—Col. 1:10.

MAKING PUBLIC DECLARATION OF YOUR FAITH

As you continue to grow in knowledge and understanding of the truth of God’s Word, you will find your faith in God growing. The assured expectation of the fulfillment of God’s promises respecting a new order of righteousness will become your expectation. When you read in the Bible the prophetic foregleams of God’s new system of things, there will be cultivated within you the hope of living then to enjoy its blessings. (2 Pet. 3:13; Rev. 21:3, 4) And quite naturally you will have the urge to tell others of your Bible-based hope, to speak out of your heart’s abundance.—Matt. 12:34.

The Christian apostle Paul felt the urge to make public declaration of his faith. (Rom. 10:10) He knew that God’s “will is that all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” (1 Tim. 2:4) Due to the accurate knowledge he had of the truth, he considered himself a debtor to all. In connection with declaring the good news he said: “There is eagerness on my part to declare the good news . . . For I am not ashamed of the good news; it is, in fact, God’s power for salvation to everyone having faith.” (Rom. 1:14-17) Will you manifest the eagerness of Paul in sharing the good news? Or will you be ashamed of the good news and thus remain silent?

The apostle Paul was not one to accept the undeserved kindness of God and miss its purpose. (2 Cor. 6:1) He realized that he was really in a race, the prize of which was life, and he was determined to run in such a way that he might attain it. “Therefore,” he said, “the way I am running is not uncertainly.” (1 Cor. 9:24-27) Rather, he was “stretching forward to the things ahead, . . . pursuing down toward the goal for the prize.” He was making progress along the way that leads to life and encouraged us to do the same, saying: “To what extent we have made progress, let us go on walking orderly in this same routine.”—Phil. 3:13-16.

To what extent have you made progress? Does attaining the prize of life mean as much to you as it did to Paul? Or are you running uncertainly, limping upon two different opinions, so to speak? If you are not yet serving God with a complete heart, then do not the following words of the Christian apostle Peter apply in your case: “The time that has passed by is sufficient for you to have worked out the will of the nations”? (1 Pet. 4:3) Knowing that the will of the nations cannot prevail over the will of God, should you not respond affirmatively to the question, “Who is on Jehovah’s side?” (Ex. 32:26) But perhaps you ask: “How can I declare myself on God’s side?”

DECLARING YOURSELF ON GOD’S SIDE

You can declare yourself on God’s side by humbly acknowledging that he is ‘worthy to receive the glory and the honor because he created all things,’ that “by him we have life and move and exist.” (Rev. 4:11; Acts 17:28) This acknowledgment must be backed up by a decision on your part to do the will of God. This should be a decision based upon knowledge you have gained of God and his purposes, and a heartfelt desire to do his will. And how should this humble acknowledgment and decision to serve God be made known to him?

It is properly made known to God in prayer, even as Jesus did when presenting himself to do the will of his Father. At that time he said: “Look! I am come to do your will.” (Heb. 10:9) Your decision or dedication to do God’s will is a very important step forward in your life of praise to God. After taking it, you should then demonstrate to others that you have chosen to be found on Jehovah’s side by submitting to water baptism, after the example of Jesus.—Matt. 3:13-17.

As seen in the light of Bible prophecy, present world events signify that the time left in which you can identify yourself on God’s side is greatly reduced. Very shortly now God will put it in the minds of the rulers of the earth to destroy completely what remains of the world empire of false religion, “Babylon the Great.” That day of the execution of God’s judgment upon false religion will come suddenly, swiftly. Then it will be too late to make an escape from that harlot-like system that holds in bondage all those not enjoying the freedom that only true worship brings. Therefore, it is urgent to take the positive step of declaring yourself on Jehovah’s side without delay.—Rev. 17:5, 16, 17; 18:21.

There is great joy that comes as a result of making spiritual advancement. And, because one’s everlasting destiny is involved, indeed there is no advancement that is more urgent. Do not be discouraged by the progressive steps involved in attaining Christian maturity. As your faith grows through your receiving the Word of God into a right and good heart, it will motivate you to take each logical forward step.

Just as a child progresses toward adulthood little by little, in the same way you may expect to become full grown in a spiritual sense. And just as loving parents are ready to help their child advance toward physical, mental and emotional maturity, so the Christian witnesses of Jehovah are anxious to help you make progress toward spiritual maturity. They experience a unique joy in seeing persons with whom they study the Bible advance in knowledge and understanding of God’s purposes to the point of also becoming active servants of God. Therefore, accept their assistance with the full assurance that it is being offered without ulterior motive, but rather out of genuine “love” that “does not look for its own interests.”—1 Cor. 13:4, 5.

Pay Attention to “The Prophetic Word”

“You are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place.”—2 Pet. 1:19.

1. How does God’s prophetic Word well describe modern-day predictions by men?

A DARK gloom is settling down on mankind. Oh, there have been many predictions of better times, of ‘a world made safe for democracy’ and of ‘four freedoms,’ and glowing prophecies have been made concerning what the League of Nations, and later the United Nations, would accomplish. But somehow, all of these prophecies have gone unfulfilled. The situation is like that which caused God to declare, in another day of crisis: “And they try to heal the breakdown of my people lightly, saying, ‘There is peace! There is peace!’ when there is no peace.” (Jer. 6:14) How true of this world today!

2. Why do many human forecasts fail? How do they contrast with Jehovah’s prophetic utterances?

2 Why is it that human forecasts of better times and of peace are all failing? For one thing, they are usually based on wishful thinking, rather than fact. Many of them are made for propaganda purposes. And most importantly, these human predictions run counter to God’s inspired Word, the Bible. They are not in harmony with God’s declared purposes for this earth. Jehovah God’s utterance to these would-be prophets is: “For the thoughts of you people are not my thoughts, nor are my ways your ways.” Concerning his own prophetic Word, he adds: “It will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it.” (Isa. 55:8, 11) You, too, can have certain success by urgently heeding that Word!

A “SEED” OF VINDICATION

3. (a) Against whom was God’s first prophecy spoken, and what does it foretell? (b) What basis is there for believing that peace and freedom will be restored to earth?

3 Let us turn back the pages of the Bible to the first prophecy inspired by God, almost six thousand years ago. Listen to his judgment pronounced in Eden. It is against the renegade Satan, seducer of our first parents. Jehovah declares: “And I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel.” (Gen. 3:15) A bruising of Satan’s head is foretold. And note how the apostle Paul applies this scripture in writing to true lovers of God and righteousness: “For his part, the God who gives peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.” (Rom. 16:20) It is by the crushing of Satan and his “seed” that Jehovah brings real peace to this earth, restoring the groaning creation to “the glorious freedom of the children of God.” Jehovah’s prophecy in Eden provides the basis for this hope.—Rom. 8:20, 21.

4. (a) Who was first called a “prophet” in the Bible? (b) What two noteworthy miracles were performed in connection with Isaac?

4 But who is the woman’s “seed”—the “seed” of vindication that upholds Jehovah’s side of the issue against Satan? It was two thousand years after Eden that Jehovah shed much light on this question through his dealings with his “friend” Abraham—the first man called “prophet” in the Bible record. (Jas. 2:23; Gen. 20:7) Jehovah performed two noteworthy miracles in connection with faithful Abraham. The first of these was to empower Abraham and his wife, the long-barren Sarah, to produce their only son, Isaac, in their old age. (Gen. 21:1-7) Years later, when Isaac had grown to young manhood, Jehovah commanded Abraham to slay Isaac in sacrifice on Mount Moriah. Abraham obeyed. But as he was about to apply the knife to Isaac, another miracle! An angel called to Abraham to desist. And look! a ram was at hand to replace Isaac as the burnt sacrifice. Isaac was restored to Abraham, as though by a resurrection.

5. What sworn promise did Jehovah make to Abraham, and how may you share in its fulfillment?

5 How Abraham must have been stirred by what he next heard!—Jehovah’s sworn utterance of prophecy, as conveyed through the angel: “That by reason of the fact that you have done this thing and you have not withheld your son, your only one, I shall surely bless you and I shall surely multiply your seed like the stars of the heavens and like the grains of sand that are on the seashore; and your seed will take possession of the gate of his enemies. And by means of your seed all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves due to the fact that you have listened to my voice.” That oath-bound promise has had remarkable fulfillment already. By cultivating faith like Abraham’s you may have the joy of sharing in its further fulfillments.—Gen. 22:1-18; Heb. 11:8-19.

6. (a) What are some of the things prophecied concerning the “seed”? (b) What important purpose did these prophecies accomplish?

6 During the next two thousand years, Jehovah’s prophets down to Malachi, and to John the Baptist, continued to focus attention on the promised “seed.” Isaac’s own son, Jacob, prophesied that the “seed” would be a ruler called Shiloh, or “The One to Whom It Belongs,” out of Judah. (Gen. 49:10) Isaiah foretold his being born of a virgin, from David’s house, his humiliation and rejection and his sacrificial death. (Isa. 7:14; 9:6, 7; 28:16; 50:6; 53:5-12) Daniel described him as “Messiah the Leader,” and foretold the exact dates of his appearing and of his being cut off in death. (Dan. 9:24-27) Other prophets added minute details about his life and ministry, and his death and resurrection. (Mic. 5:2; Hos. 11:1; Zech. 9:9; 11:12; Ps. 22:16-18; 34:20; 16:10; 110:1) Did these hundreds of prophecies serve to identify the “seed” when this One finally appeared? Certainly they did, as Messiah’s faithful disciples repeatedly testified under inspiration!—Matt. 1:22, 23; 2:15, 17, 18; 12:40; 21:4, 5; 27:9; Luke 2:11; John 19:23, 24, 31-37; Acts 2:29-36.

7. (a) How did Jesus’ apostles positively identify the “seed”? (b) To what glorious fulfillment did four thousand years of prophesying come?

7 No wonder that Peter, when questioned, could say so positively to that One: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”! (Matt. 16:16) To which Paul adds his testimony: “Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. It says, not: ‘And to seeds,’ as in the case of many such, but as in the case of one: ‘And to your seed,’ who is Christ.” (Gal. 3:16) So, here was the “seed” of vindication promised in Eden—and Abraham’s “seed.” Surely, four thousand years of prophesying had not been in vain! How wonderfully had the Edenic and Abrahamic promises blended in their fulfillment! For the miraculous birth of Isaac, in Abraham’s and Sarah’s old age, had well represented God sending forth the promised “seed” from his heavenly, wifelike organization of holy angels, after four millenniums of waiting. And the circumstances surrounding the sacrifice of Isaac tied in with the Edenic ‘seed’s’ receiving a ‘heel bruise’ from which he could be recovered, for here was pictured Jesus’ great sacrifice on earth, and his restoration to his Father’s heavenly presence by a resurrection. Here, then, is grand assurance that all of Jehovah’s prophecies will come to glorious fulfillment.

8. How was Abraham’s “seed” multiplied, and what about its number?

8 The apostle Paul was inspired, also, to explain the multiplying of Abraham’s “seed”—“like the stars of the heavens and like the grains of the sand that are on the seashore.” He described Jesus’ anointed followers as becoming “all one person in union with Christ Jesus. . . . really Abraham’s seed, heirs with reference to a promise.” They are to inherit the heavenly kingdom with Christ. But not for always did their number remain indeterminate ‘like the stars and grains of sand,’ for God later revealed that this spiritual Israel is made up of 144,000 redeemed from the earth.—Gal. 3:28, 29; Rev. 7:4; 14:1, 3.

9. How did Jehovah use Israel, and to what did the tabernacle pattern point?

9 In marvelous portrayal of the glorious service to be performed by the promised “seed,” Jehovah used Abraham’s fleshly seed, ancient Israel, in making prophetic patterns. Following the inspired “blueprint” from Jehovah, skilled workmen, filled with “the spirit of God,” built the tabernacle, with its tent and furnishings. (Ex. 35:30–36:3) Here for about five hundred years, and for a further four hundred years at the temple built by Solomon, Israel’s priesthood was obliged to make the sacrifices commanded by Jehovah. Probably millions of sacrifices were offered over the centuries, and all of these ‘bore witness to Jesus,’ pointing to his perfect human sacrifice and his work as resurrected High Priest in ministering to those of mankind “earnestly looking for him for their salvation.”—Heb. 7:26-28; 9:23-28; Rev. 19:10.

10. (a) In what way did Jesus prove to be a “seed” of vindication, and how was he rewarded? (b) Of what prophecies does Hebrews 10:12, 13 remind us?

10 Jesus proved to be a “seed” of vindication, in that he kept flawless integrity to Jehovah and magnified Jehovah, even while receiving the painful ‘heel wound’ on the torture stake. In this, Jehovah God was blessed, as the One typified by Abraham. (Gen. 22:17) But further blessing was to come! In showing the fulfillment of Psalm 110, Paul states of Jesus: “This man offered one sacrifice for sins perpetually and sat down at the right hand of God, from then on awaiting until his enemies should be placed as a stool for his feet.” (Heb. 10:12, 13) Ah, “his enemies.” This expression takes us right back to Genesis 3:15, where we read of “enmity” between the two ‘seeds.’ It reminds, too, of God’s sworn promise to Abraham, that his “seed will take possession of the gate of his enemies.” Who is this enemy “seed,” and how does the “seed” of God’s woman humiliate it?

THE SERPENT AND HIS BROOD

11. How does John describe the “children of the Devil”?

11 Concerning the “seed” of the archenemy Satan, the apostle John writes: “The children of God and the children of the Devil are evident by this fact: Everyone who does not carry on righteousness does not originate with God, neither does he who does not love his brother. For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should have love for one another; not like Cain, who originated with the wicked one and slaughtered his brother. And for the sake of what did he slaughter him? Because his own works were wicked, but those of his brother were righteous.”—1 John 3:10-12.

12, 13. (a) With what has the ‘seed of the serpent’ always been identified? (b) What various parts are there to Satan’s “seed”?

12 It was a mistaken way of worship, coupled with hatred for his brother, that made Cain a child of the Devil. (Gen. 4:3-8) And to this day, the ‘seed of the serpent’ has been identified with false worship, and has persecuted and slain true worshipers of God. Following the flood of Noah’s day, a worldwide empire of false religion developed, based on the mysteries of Babylon. (Gen. 10:9) So reprehensible is this empire of false religion in God’s sight, that the concluding prophecy of the Bible describes it as “Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots and of the disgusting things of the earth.”—Rev. 17:5.

13 We need to be on guard against this religious “seed” of Satan, and also against the Satanic “heavens,” which are also part of his “seed.” (Eph. 6:12) Satan organized this spirit “seed” from the angels who proved disobedient in Noah’s day, and over whom he became “Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” (Matt. 12:24; 2 Pet. 2:4) Satan also brought “all the kingdoms of the world” under his control, using his demons as ‘princes’ over them. (Matt. 4:8, 9; Dan. 10:13, 20) Satan’s “seed” thus came to be a powerful organization in heaven and on earth. It is his instrument whereby he seeks to devour lovers of righteousness, and we should be careful never to become enslaved by it.—1 Pet. 5:8, 9.

14. What did Jesus call the religious clergy of his day, and why?

14 The religious clergy of Jesus’ day were part of Satan’s “seed.” They taught traditions instead of God’s Word, and they spilled the righteous blood of God’s prophets. Jesus called them to their face “serpents, offspring of vipers.” (Matt. 23:33-36; 15:6) They claimed to be Abraham’s “seed,” but Jesus told them: “If you are Abraham’s children, do the works of Abraham. But now you are seeking to kill me, a man that has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do this. You do the works of your father. . . . You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father. That one was a manslayer when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because truth is not in him.”—John 8:39-41, 44.

15, 16. (a) Are all religions good? Why do you so answer? (b) How does Christendom stand, with regard to Matthew 7:15, 16?

15 To which “seed” do modern-day religions of this world belong? We should beware of such statements as, “All religions are good.” Not all religions are good, and especially those that are deeply involved in worldly politics. Paul warned first-century Christians of a corrupting of true religion, saying: “But I am afraid that somehow, as the serpent seduced Eve by its cunning, your minds might be corrupted away from the sincerity and the chastity that are due the Christ.” (2 Cor. 11:3) Did this corrupting take place? History proves that it did, exactly as the apostles foretold. (Acts 20:29, 30; 2 Thess. 2:3-12; 1 John 2:18, 19)Jesus also prophesied of this, when he said: “Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to you in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will recognize them.”—Matt. 7:15, 16.

16 What fruits, for example, has Christendom produced? Due to having replaced pure Bible teaching with Babylonian traditions, both Catholicism and Protestantism today are in a state of doctrinal confusion. Look, too, at her “fruits” in the form of the inquisitions, the crusades, the “holy wars” and the two world wars that were launched from within Christendom, and which received willing support from the clergy and chaplains on both sides. Can Christendom lay any claim to being identified with the “seed” described in Jehovah’s Word of prophecy as the “Prince of Peace”?—Isa. 9:6, 7; 2:4.

CLIMAX OF THE ISSUE

17. How has the issue moved toward a climax since 1914, and why?

17 As explained in detail in the book The Time Is at Hand, published by the Watch Tower Society in 1889, Bible prophecy, including that at Daniel chapter 4, pointed to the year 1914 as a marked date.a This was to be the end of “seven times,” or 2,520 years, of uninterrupted domination of the earth by the nations under Satan. It would be the time for the promised “seed” to take kingdom power in heaven. And indeed, the world war that came in 1914 as a start of the “pangs of distress” was a clear proof that Satan’s system of things was now entering its last days. Distress on earth has continued to mount, in remarkable fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy at Matthew chapters 24 and 25 concerning “the conclusion of the system of things.” Enmity between the two ‘seeds’ has also moved toward a peak, as Jesus forewarned his followers: “Then people will deliver you up to tribulation and will kill you, and you will be objects of hatred by all the nations on account of my name. . . . And many false prophets will arise and mislead many; and because of the increasing of lawlessness the love of the greater number will cool off. But he that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved.” (Matt. 24:3, 9-13) True to the prophecy, Christendom is plagued by lawlessness. And where in Christendom can you find genuine love for Jehovah God and his righteousness? But happy are those who have come out of Christendom’s Babylonish religious system, and who are enduring in the hope of salvation through Christ, the “seed.”—Heb. 9:28; Luke 21:34-36.

18, 19. (a) Why does the enemy “seed” attack true Christians? (b) What examples are given of God’s protecting his people, and what can we learn therefrom?

18 Bible-based Christians are busy in obeying Jesus’ prophetic command for this day: “And this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” (Matt. 24:14) For this, the enemy “seed” has persecuted them ruthlessly at times. For example, during World War II, Catholic Hitler of Germany declared concerning these Christian witnesses of Jehovah: “This brood will be exterminated in Germany!” To the concentration camps with them! But finally it was Hitler that perished, while Jehovah’s witnesses were freed to continue their organized preaching. Here is one fine example of Jehovah’s preserving his people through those troublous times:

19 In April 1945, the approach of the Russian army compelled the Nazis to evacuate the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. A group of Jehovah’s witnesses had to march out with the rest. Looting, panic and shootings surrounded them, and the thunderous bombardments of war drew ever nearer. What did they do? They kept together. They stayed close to Jehovah in prayer. They maintained theocratic order in their camp. They witnessed concerning God’s kingdom to those whom they met along the way. The people heard them gladly and provided them food and shelter for the night, whereas other thousands were dying all around them. Jehovah was with his people of integrity, as the following account by one of the group shows:

“From our troop of about 230 brothers and sisters none, not even the weakest, was lying on the road; in spite of the fact that we had some brothers from 65 to 72 years of age. They were all standing faithfully. You could again see the Theocratic spirit and arrangement and how the Lord’s angel protected us. How wonderfully on this day the promises were fulfilled by Jehovah from Isaiah 40:29-31.”

Jehovah does indeed ‘make full might abound’ among those who loyally support his side of the issue between the two ‘seeds.’

20. (a) What recent examples show Jehovah’s strength on behalf of his people? (b) What is Satan’s determination, and what may be expected?

20 And in more recent days, how wonderfully has Jehovah strengthened his loyal servants to hold fast to true worship in the face of demonic opposition in Cuba, in Spain and Portugal, and in Malawi, Zambia and the United Arab Republic! In his wrath against God’s womanlike organization, Satan is determined, to the bitter end, “to wage war with the remaining ones of her seed, who observe the commandments of God and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus.” Satan musters his entire “seed” organization in heaven and on earth for the final all-out assault on the apparently defenseless Witnesses who proclaim Jehovah’s Kingdom purposes by Christ.—Rev. 12:17; Ezekiel chap. 38.

21. (a) Why is it high time to ‘stay awake’? (b) What awaits “Babylon the Great,” and on what does survival depend?

21 The final showdown draws near! Satan tries to befuddle the people with propaganda, as “inspired expressions of demons” gather the nations “together to the war of the great day of God the Almighty . . . Har–Magedon.” It is now the time of all times for God’s own people to ‘stay awake’! (Rev. 16:13-16) Lawlessness, violence and distress are increasing in the earth. But sometime before liberty is proclaimed in all the earth for all mankind, Satan’s “seed,” including “Babylon the Great,” must be put out of business. Religious Babylon’s fate is well deserved, for she is described as being “drunk with the blood of the holy ones and with the blood of the witnesses of Jesus.” This desolating of false religion’s world empire comes with surprising suddenness, in just “one hour,” as Revelation emphasizes three times. It is now vitally urgent for all who wish to be identified with the true “seed” of promise to heed the angel’s command: “Get out of her, my people, if you do not want to share with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of her plagues.” Your very survival depends on getting free from all entanglement with false religion!—Rev. 17:6; 18:4, 10, 17, 19.

22. How does the prophetic Word describe the victory over Satan and his “seed”?

22 In many places, the prophetic Word warns of God’s executing judgment on Satan and his “seed.” For example, there is Jeremiah 25:31-38, which tells us that “those slain by Jehovah will certainly come to be in that day from one end of the earth clear to the other end of the earth.” To the forefront are the political and religious “shepherds,” who will ‘howl’ and ‘cry out,’ and wallowing with them are the “majestic ones of the flock,” including the favored prominent followers, who follow them into destruction. Finally, the original Serpent himself, together with his demons, will be shut up for a thousand years. Revelation 19:11 to 20:3 describes how Christ Jesus and the holy angels of heaven will fight for just such a victory, in vindication of Jehovah’s name. The triumph over the Serpent and his “seed” will be complete!

BLESSING THROUGH THE “SEED”

23, 24. (a) How will the final part of the promise to Abraham be fulfilled? (b) Why may we be assured of this, and so how should we act?

23 Thus the “seed” possesses the “gate of his enemies.” But more is to follow. For Jehovah’s sworn utterance to Abraham concludes with the words: “And by means of your seed all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves due to the fact that you have listened to my voice.” (Gen. 22:18) To “bless themselves,” these “nations” must obey, just as Abraham did. Whether they are those of mankind that pass alive through Har–Magedon, or whether they are “the dead, the great and the small,” who stand on this earth again by a resurrection, all must exercise faith in the priestly “seed” and his ransom sacrifice, and all must come under the kingly rule of the “new heaven,” comprised of Christ and his 144,000 associates. And what grand blessings are in store for all who thus “bless themselves” in obedience! For they will become a “new earth”—a happy, peaceful, loving society of men of all races. They will be restored to radiant health and youthfulness, with the prospect of life everlasting in “the glorious freedom of the children of God.” After the apostle John had a magnificent vision of God’s grand arrangement for that time, Jehovah himself added his seal to the description of these blessings in store for mankind, saying, “Write, because these words are faithful and true.”—Rev. 21:1-5; 20:11-13; Rom. 5:12, 18; 8:21.

24 Again, in Revelation 22:6 we read: “These words are faithful and true; yes, Jehovah the God of the inspired expressions of the prophets sent his angel forth to show his slaves the things that must shortly take place.” And with a note of urgency the prophecy adds: “Look! I am coming quickly. Happy is anyone observing the words of the prophecy of this scroll.” “Look! I am coming quickly, and the reward I give is with me, to render to each one as his work is.” May we strive for that reward, by working in loyal support of the “seed” that vindicates Jehovah’s holy name!—Rev. 22:7, 12.

[Footnotes]

Study IV, “The Times of the Gentiles,” pp. 73-102.

[Picture on page 588]

Jesus told the religious leaders of his day: “You are from your father the Devil.” In the light of this truth, we should beware of such statements as, “All religions are good”

A Prophetic Pattern for Our Day

“I am Jehovah. . . . new things I am telling out. Before they begin to spring up, I cause you people to hear them.”—Isa. 42:8, 9.

1. What consideration does Jehovah show in bringing his prophecies to fulfillment?

JEHOVAH is the God of true prophecy. In fulfilling his own prophecies, he moves irresistibly forward with his grand purpose to rid the universe of all rebels. However, it was stated of him in ancient times that “the Lord Jehovah will not do a thing unless he has revealed his confidential matter to his servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7) In modern times, too, God’s servants can be assured that he will give them advance notice of what is about to happen, so that they may act for the salvation of themselves and others.—1 Tim. 4:16.

2, 3. (a) What assures us that events of ancient times have a prophetic meaning ? (b) What were your strongest impressions on reading Joshua chapters one through six?

2 “All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching.” (2 Tim. 3:16) This includes, not only the prophecies bearing directly on the settlement of the agelong issue between the two ‘seeds,’ but also many dramatic events directed by Jehovah in the history of his people. Many of these events were for a warning to us today. “Now these things went on befalling them as examples, and they were written for a warning to us upon whom the ends of the systems of things have arrived.” (1 Cor. 10:11) Some of these ancient dramas show how God will gain the victory over his foes, and the work we are privileged to do as we share in the victory procession.

3 One such drama is that enacted by Joshua and the nation of Israel in entering the Promised Land. You can read the thrilling account at Joshua chapters one through six. It is suggested that you open your Bible and do this, so as to be better able to appreciate the drama’s impact.

ZEALOUS FOR JEHOVAH’S CAUSE

4. What in Joshua’s background is of interest to us today?

4 Let’s consider something of Joshua’s background. Some forty years earlier, as shown in the Bible account, he joined Caleb in urging the disgruntled Israelites to go up and take possession of the “very, very good land” promised them by Jehovah. Because of their lack of faith, those Israelites perished in the wilderness, but Jehovah preserved Joshua to lead a new generation of Israelites into the land “flowing with milk and honey”—and that at the good old age of about eighty! In this, Joshua was just like many faithful pioneers of advanced years today, who are still leading out in God’s service—a sterling example to others.—Num. 14:6-9; Deut. 31:7, 8.

5. (a) What were some of Joshua’s attributes? (b) How may we become strong, like Joshua?

5 Joshua was a fighter, and that is what we should be—theocratic warriors trained to wield the “sword of the spirit,” the Word of God. (Eph. 6:11-18) Joshua was alert, fearless and thorough in carrying out his assignments, and we can be that way too. For we can draw strength from the same source as did Joshua. We should pay close attention to Jehovah’s words at Joshua 1:7-9, even as Joshua did:

“Only be courageous and very strong to take care to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn aside from it to the right or to the left, in order that you may act wisely everywhere you go. This book of the law should not depart from your mouth, and you must in an undertone read in it day and night, in order that you may take care to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way successful and then you will act wisely. Have I not commanded you? Be courageous and strong. Do not suffer shock or be terrified, for Jehovah your God is with you wherever you go.”

6. How may we cultivate zeal even greater than Joshua’s?

6 Joshua had God’s law in the form of the first five books of our modern-day Bible and possibly the book of Job. Today, we have some sixty more inspired books—all the prophets, the psalms and the writings of Jesus’ Jewish disciples. As we now peer “into the perfect law that belongs to freedom,” we may become equipped to do works far greater than did Joshua. (Jas. 1:25; John 14:12) Our zeal should even exceed that of Joshua. And certainly we will always be zealous for Jehovah’s cause if we meditate day and night on his Word, diligent in the reading and studying of the inspired Scriptures.

ORGANIZING FOR THEOCRATIC WARFARE

7. (a) When does the drama start to be fulfilled, and why was the remnant of spiritual Israel blessed? (b) How does Joshua appropriately picture Jesus?

7 Jehovah had commanded the conquest of Canaan. Joshua’s faith in Jehovah was immovable, and likewise the Israelites put faith in Joshua, saying to him: “All that you have commanded us we shall do, and wherever you may send us we shall go.” (Josh. 1:16) Following World War I, the remnant of spiritual Israel, in getting reorganized to witness to God’s kingdom, expressed a similar loyalty and willingness, and Jehovah blessed them through the Greater than Joshua, Jesus Christ. How appropriate it is that “Jesus” is the Greek-language equivalent of the Hebrew word “Joshua,” meaning “Jehovah is Salvation.”

8. What are pictured by Canaan and Jericho, and in what way?

8 Joshua now sent two men to spy out Canaan, telling them: “Go, take a look at the land and Jericho.” (Josh. 2:1) “Canaan” means “humbled.” It would appear to picture the land of Satan’s organization, his accursed “seed” on earth. As the firstfruits of conquest, the idolatrous city of Jericho appears to picture “Babylon the Great,” of which Christendom is a principal part, and which is to be ‘completely burned with fire’ when God begins to execute judgment on the present system of things.—Rev. 17:5, 16, 18.

9. What fulfillment was there to the spying in Canaan?

9 Secretly, the two spies entered Jericho and went straight to the house of Rahab, where they took up lodging. En route, they were well able to size up the situation in Canaan and in Jericho. Likewise, as they entered upon their modern-day theocratic warfare, Jehovah’s witnesses came to appreciate clearly, from God’s Word of prophecy, that Satan had a great organization on this earth, of which false religion formed the most corrupt part, and that all of this visible “seed” of Satan was doomed to early destruction.

10. (a) Who is pictured by Rahab? (b) What shows that Rahab had separated from false religion?

10 But whom does Rahab picture? One meaning of her name, besides “wide; broad,” is “at liberty,” by implication, thus indicating that she was one who had broken free from the demonic religion of Canaan. She must also have broken free from her previous profession as a prostitute, else Jehovah would not have directed the spies to her house. (Deut. 23:17, 18) She well represents a class that come out of, and that is scorned by Babylonian religion. This is the class of sheeplike ones that fulfills Jesus’ prophecy at Matthew 25:34-40 in showing kindness to Christ’s brothers. This is the “great crowd,” which, like Rahab, comes to hear of Jehovah’s mighty works and to acknowledge that he is “God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath.”—Josh. 2:11; Rev. 7:9, 10.

11. (a) How would the spies spend their time with Rahab, and what does this picture? (b) For what does God’s Word commend Rahab?

11 We can be sure that the spies did not spend their time with Rahab in idle talk. What a grand opportunity they had for instructing her concerning God’s law! Jehovah’s anointed witnesses today, also, have been happy to spend time teaching the despised ones of earth concerning God’s way of salvation. In this, they follow Jesus’ example. (Matt. 21:31; 11:19) Rahab was no doubt an industrious worker in flax, but now she was anxious to prove her faith by another kind of work, so that she sought a covenant with the Israelites. For this, God’s Word commends her, saying: “You see that a man is to be declared righteous by works, and not by faith alone. In the same manner was not also Rahab the harlot declared righteous by works, after she had received the messengers hospitably and sent them out by another way?”—Jas. 2:24, 25; Josh. 2:6, 12, 13.

12. (a) How must the “great crowd” act today, as foreshadowed by Rahab? (b) What does the “scarlet cord” represent?

12 In these dangerous “last days,” the “great crowd” must act in cooperation with the anointed remnant of Christ’s brothers and for the protection of them. Moreover, they have an urgent responsibility to teach still others. This is well pictured by Rahab’s harboring the spies and sending them away to a safe hideout in the mountains, as well as in her subsequent zealous action on behalf of her family. But one thing more was required! Rahab had let the spies down from her window by a rope. This “cord of scarlet thread” may have been the same cord that the spies instructed Rahab to tie in her window. Those gathered to her house must remain under the protection of that scarlet thread, not going out lest they incur death, their blood being on their own heads. This reminds of God’s protecting the firstborn of Israel in blood-marked houses at the first Passover, and also of the cities of refuge whereby the unwitting manslayer was freed from execution for bloodguilt. The “scarlet cord” points to God’s provision today for the salvation of the “great crowd,” which provision centers in Jesus’ sacrifice. (Heb. 9:19, 28) Those coming out of Babylon the Great must continue under that provision.

13. What dedicated service did Rahab perform, and how is this prophetic?

13 After the departure of the spies, Rahab must have intensified her efforts in behalf of her household. As a non-Israelite, she would have to make a personal dedication to Jehovah, just like the “great crowd” who cooperate so zealously with the anointed remnant of spiritual Israel in today’s earth-wide Bible education campaign. Probably you are one of these, and you may even have had the thrilling experience of leading some of your own family to safety, through a home Bible study. Or you may have studied with others who have become your “brothers and sisters and mothers and children” in a spiritual way, with the hope of everlasting life in the coming system of things. (Mark 10:30) All of you who have been gathered in dedication to Jehovah through Christ, keep exercising faith on the basis of Jesus’ shed blood. It will mean your salvation, just as the “scarlet cord” spelled out salvation to Rahab and her household!—Josh. 2:17-21; 1 John 1:7.

DIVIDING THE WATERS

14, 15. (a) How did Joshua demonstrate his faith? (b) What miracle now occurred, and what did it picture?

14 Back, now, with the spies, to Joshua’s camp! It was flood time in the Jordan, and the Canaanites must have thought Joshua crazy to attempt a crossing. But Joshua was exercising faith in Jehovah, whose presence with Israel was represented by the ark of the covenant in their midst. Like so many faithful pioneers today, “Joshua got up early in the morning”—to move the vast encampment of millions of Israelites down to the flooding river. Next day, the priests advanced to Jordan’s brink, “carrying the ark of Jehovah, the Lord of the whole earth.” And as the priests’ feet dipped into the river, ‘at that instant’ an amazing thing happened! “Then the waters descending from above began to stand still,” and those descending toward the Salt Sea “were exhausted.”—Josh. 3:1, 13, 15-17.

15 What miraculous proof of Jehovah’s presence with his people! And there is similar proof today. As the peoples of the world reach flood stage, both in numbers and in wickedness, the Christian witnesses of Jehovah have stepped out boldly among them. The Kingdom message has not failed to cause a sharp and conclusive division between the “upper,” righteously inclined people and those bent on hurtling their way with the crowd into Armageddon destruction. Even as the priests carrying the Ark “kept standing immovable on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan as all Israel were passing over,” so Jehovah’s anointed witnesses of modern times have continued “steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord,” while many are thereby enabled to pass over to salvation.—Josh. 3:14-17; 1 Cor. 15:58.

16. What memorial did Joshua then make, and with what modern-day significance?

16 So important did Joshua consider Jehovah’s miracle to be that he took twelve great stones out of Jordan to set up at Gilgal, as a witness to the future generations of Israel. Also, he set twelve other stones in the riverbed, where the Ark-carrying priests’ feet had stood still. Jordan’s swirling waters must ever thereafter pass by those stones of witness. In like manner, the plunging waters of mankind today cannot ignore the worldwide judgment proclamation that has increased to a crescendo since its start in 1919. Are you not glad that you may now share in that witness? It is given “in order that all the peoples of the earth may know Jehovah’s hand, that it is strong; in order that you may indeed fear Jehovah your God always.”—Josh. 4:14-24.

17. What is the condition of the world today, as pictured by Canaan?

17 But did Jehovah’s miracle result in a change of heart for the Canaanites? Far from it! If their “hearts began to melt,” it was only to set in a harder mold. The description of the Canaanites and their practices at Leviticus 18:3, 21-27 and Deuteronomy 18:9-12 shows that they were too deeply submerged in depravity ever to be able to turn with repentant hearts to Jehovah. They were past knowing the power of Jehovah’s spirit. The land could be cleansed only by exterminating them. Today, also, “the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one,” and is continually sinking to new lows of immorality. “The day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men” is at hand! Satan’s entire organization must perish.—Josh. 5:1; 1 John 5:19; 2 Pet. 3:7.

18. What cleansing was necessary, in ancient and in modern times?

18 Warfare for possession of the Promised Land was near! But first God’s own people must be cleansed. The new generation of Israel born in the wilderness had not been circumcised. Their condition remained as a reproach. Hence the males of the entire nation were circumcised at Gilgal, to ‘roll away the reproach of Egypt.’ (Josh. 5:9) In modern times, too, Jehovah’s people have had to undergo the ‘circumcision that is of the heart by spirit,’ which includes a complete cleansing from the filth of Satan’s world and a giving of exclusive devotion to Jehovah in his service. Are you one of those now diligently serving Jehovah in dedication, out of a pure heart?—Rom. 2:29.

19. What is the prophetic significance of the events leading up to the assault on Jericho?

19 What joy must have marked the celebration of the first Passover in the Land of Promise! And now, as Israel began to eat the produce of the land, the miraculous manna, their food for forty years, ceased. In modern times, too, Jehovah’s people, ever appreciative of the sacrifice of the “Lamb of God,” have passed on to more solid spiritual food and to deeper understanding of Jehovah’s grand Word of prophecy. They have been strengthened for spiritual warfare. Just as the “prince of the army of Jehovah,” unquestionably the Logos or “Word” (John 1:1), appeared to strengthen Joshua at this point, so Jehovah’s people today have strengthening assurance from God’s Holy Scriptures that the glorified Christ is with them to lead them in theocratic warfare.—Josh. 5:14, 15.

20. What strange war strategy did Joshua follow, and why?

20 But now we turn to Jericho, a city “tightly shut up” behind massive walls. Fire-scorched ruins that remain till this day tell of the city’s well-nigh impregnable strength. No mere human army could take it by quick assault. But no mere human army ever followed strategy like that now commanded by Jehovah! Israel must march, all the men of war. Once each day, for six days, round the city they must march, with priests, trumpets and the ark of Jehovah going in their midst, and the priests continually blowing on horns. How strange! And how those on Jericho’s walls must have laughed and mocked!—Josh. 6:6-9.

21. How does the courageous marching of Israel find fulfillment?

21 It took courage for those Israelites to march in theocratic order round that great city. And it takes courage for Jehovah’s witnesses today to keep marching round Babylon the Great, with its principal stronghold of Christendom, trumpeting forth the message of doom. But round and round the territory we go, scorning the reproaches, and with strong reliance on Jehovah’s presence with us. The judgment message is God’s, and it proclaims in clear tones that Satan’s organization of false religion is actually to “crash in ruins.” Only a “holy seed” that carries forward the pure, true worship of Jehovah God is to remain.—Isa. 6:11-13.

22. What does Israel’s obedience to Joshua’s command foreshadow?

22 Joshua had commanded the people: “You must neither shout nor let your voices be heard, and no word should come out of your mouths until the day when I say to you, ‘Shout!’ Then you must shout.” (Josh. 6:10) In modern times, too, Jehovah’s witnesses zealously trumpet forth “this good news” of God’s established kingdom, but without engaging in shouting matches or entering into angry debate with the hardened opposers in Christendom. A “great chasm” now divides these from the true worshipers of God. (Luke 16:26) However, honest-hearted individuals may still escape from Babylonish religion. But they must act, and act quickly, as did Rahab and her household.—Zeph. 2:3.

THE CLIMAX OF THE MARCH

23. (a) Why was the seventh day unusual? (b) How do Jehovah’s witnesses react to the meaning of the times, and with what assurance?

23 It is now the seventh day for marching. Could this be a day for “sleeping in,” or for taking things easy due to the length of the march? Far from it! There had been no sabbath of rest during the six days, nor was this seventh day to be a sabbath. This day “they proceeded to get up early, as soon as the dawn ascended.” Now they must march round the city seven times just on one day! Why, this final effort was to be more than that of all the previous days put together! (Josh. 6:15) And today, with less than seven years remaining to the end of six thousand years of human history, and with all the prophetic evidence that Christendom is about to be shaken from her proud foundations, are we not fired with zeal to get round our territory seven times and more? Time is short, and the message must be sounded! It is no time for drooping hands or wobbling knees. (Zeph. 3:16, 17; Isa. 35:3, 4) As we give our all in his service, we can be confident that Jehovah, the God who “does not tire out or grow weary,” will be in our very midst to strengthen us, just as the ark of Jehovah’s presence was in the midst of Joshua’s marching army. He will continue to infuse power into us as the final march intensifies.—Isa. 40:28.

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The Watchtower, October 1, 1969