The Watchtower, May 15, 1972

Download: PDF — The Watchtower, May 15, 1972

The Watchtower — May 15, 1972

Source: jw.org

Contents

Man—Made for the Earth

The Problem of Calling Jesus “God”

Ornamental or Idolatrous Representations—Which?

Do Not Miss the Purpose of Jehovah’s Deliverance

Appreciating Jehovah’s Deliverance

Do Not Try God’s Patience Too Far

Generosity Begets Generosity

A Library at Nineveh

Will You Attend the “Divine Rulership” District Assembly?

Former Opposers Accept Bible Truth

Questions From Readers

What Do You Know About the Watch Tower Society?

Man—Made for the Earth

OUR own experience tells us that we need the earth. It provides all our material needs, such as food, water and clothing. And who does not enjoy the earth’s beauty, its majestic mountains, quiet forests and pounding ocean surfs?

Chemical study of man’s body reveals that all its elements can be found in the soil around us. This is in harmony with the Bible’s statement that man was made “out of dust from the ground.” (Gen. 2:7) Interestingly, the Bible tells us that the first man was called Adam, a name that can be translated “earthling man.” God charged man with caring for the earth. In fact, Psalm 115:15, 16 shows that the earth was “given” to man as his home.

But today man is experimenting with space exploration. Could it be that man might fit just as well into life on some other planet? If he is truly made for the earth, should this not be evident in even more ways than in his need for air, water and food?

For instance, on the planet Jupiter a ‘day’ lasts just about ten hours. But Jupiter’s ‘year’ is equal to about twelve earth years. With a little experience might not man adapt well to such time features? Is he really made for earth’s time schedules? The testimony of current scientific opinion on the matter is of interest.

Professor John D. Palmer of New York University says: “It is quite obvious that the ability to measure off periods of about 24 hours is an innate property of protoplasm,” which is found in all living things on this earth, including man. Biology professor Frank A. Brown of Northwestern University says: “24-hour clock-timed rhythmic systems exist in man.”

Such daily ‘clocks,’ sometimes called ‘biological clocks,’ are more correctly referred to as “circadian rhythms” (from the Latin circa, meaning “about,” and dies, meaning “day,” or “about a day”) since most of the rhythms are not exactly twenty-four hours.

TWENTY-FOUR-HOUR RHYTHMS IN MAN

The most obvious of such rhythms in man is said to be the sleep-wakefulness cycle. Out of each twenty-four hours, most humans spend about eight hours sleeping and sixteen hours in activity. Have you ever tried to alter that cycle, perhaps skipping a night’s sleep? You cannot do that for very long, can you? Your body will not allow it.

Experimental attempts to alter the twenty-four-hour sleep-wakefulness cycle have proved unsuccessful. Thus sleep expert Nathaniel Kleitman says: “Efforts to establish a 12-hour rhythm in man have uniformly failed. . . . No more successful were attempts to develop a 48-hour rhythm in our laboratory.” Man’s sleeping habits indicate he was made for a twenty-four-hour cycle.

Body temperature, too, we are told, follows such a twenty-four-hour rhythm. The average temperature in a healthy man is 98.6° F. But this varies every day, about two degrees; consistently body temperature is lower in the morning hours and higher in the afternoon.

Most of the chemicals released into the body follow, it is believed, a twenty-four-hour schedule. For instance, consider what one 1968 textbook says about the hormones released by the adrenal and pituitary glands:

“There is a burst of pituitary ACTH activity at about 3 A.M., reaching a peak around 6 A.M. This is followed shortly by a brisk rise in the plasma level of cortisol and its derivatives. It is as if the batteries were filled during sleep, ready to ‘go’ in the morning when the subject awakens. Throughout the day there is a gradual fall so that by midnight, the lowest cortisol levels are reached. There is approximately a two-fold difference between the peak in the early morning hours and the trough [low point] late at night.”

Suppose, however, that a person sleeps during the day and is active at night? Do such conditions affect the twenty-four-hour rhythm of these glands? This source continues:

“The rhythm of adrenal activity is independent of sleep as shown in night workers, who maintain their original rhythm; it is not related to vision directly, since blind persons are found to have the same diurnal [daily] variations as normal subjects.”—Textbook of Endocrinology, edited by R. H. Williams, M.D.

A regular circadian rhythm is thought to have been demonstrated in many other parts and processes of the human body. According to doctors at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, even a “denervated donor heart maintains a similar circadian rhythm.”—Science, August 14, 1970.

Since so many rhythms appear to correspond closely with the length of earth’s day, twenty-four hours, it is understandable that some scientists would suggest a ‘cosmic’ connection between the two. Thus Professor Brown says that the ‘clock’ in earth’s living creatures is set by natural geophysical cycles. While this view is not widely embraced, few experts are ready to exclude entirely its possible validity. Well, could these rhythms be altered in outer space?

Not according to the book The Physiological Clock (1967 edition) by Professor Erwin Bünning, which observes: “Investigations into the problems of space travel have shown that humans can likewise make only limited adjustment to an environment which deviates considerably from the 24-hour periodicity.” Professor Bünning concludes that all the evidence demonstrates the truthfulness of the statement made back in the eighteenth century by German physician C. W. Hufeland: “The period of twenty-four hours . . . is, as it were, the unity of our natural chronology.”

Man, indeed, belongs in an environment based on a twenty-four-hour schedule.

OTHER CLOCKS IN MAN

Circadian rhythms are not the only ‘clocks’ found in man. Other investigators are reporting evidences of a cycle based on one earthly year. An article in the April 1971 Scientific American says about one study: “Over the 15 years of the study this subject has shown a definite annual rhythm.”

What about the moon? The Bible shows that by the moon, as by the sun, man was to mark time; there are Biblical references to the lunar month of 29.5 days. (1 Ki. 6:37) Modern factual evidence does indicate that the moon influences many forms of animal life, such as oysters. It also largely controls earth’s tides.

This led a writer in Science Digest to ask: “If [the moon] can exert some direct pull on living [animal] tissues as well as the seas, why should it not have some influence on humans?” There are apparently some interesting correspondencies between the lunar cycle and mankind.

Two are discussed by Professor Palmer:

“Even elementary textbooks promulgate that the menstrual cycle averages 28 days . . . Close re-examination of the data collected by earlier workers . . . has now shown that the true average period of the human menstrual cycle is 29.5 days—the exact length of the synodic-lunar month. It was also found that the average gestation period—the time elapsed between the day of conception and delivery—was exactly nine lunar months (266 days).”—Natural History, April 1970.

Awareness of such a seeming connection led the above-quoted Science Digest writer to ask: ‘Is it just coincidence?’

Is it possible, as some have suggested, that, just as there are apparent twenty-four-hour rhythms, “there are inherent protoplasmic rhythms which have the same periodicity as the lunar cycle”?

Another way to appreciate that the earth is man’s home is to consider what happens when he leaves it and goes into space.

MAN AWAY FROM HIS HOME

Away from the earth, his home, man is in an unnatural environment. Outer space itself is highly lethal; just a moment’s unprotected exposure to it will kill a man. Even with special equipment in outer space there are omnipresent dangers that man does not have in his native atmosphere.

Prominent among these is weightlessness. Because of its weakening effect on the circulatory system a man could be killed on his return to normal earth gravity. So special methods have to be devised to control blood flow while men are in space. Not necessary on earth, these measures are not entirely successful in space ventures.

For instance, in 1970, when two Russian cosmonauts returned to earth after a record flight in Soyuz 9, described as a ‘complete success,’ one report says that they experienced difficulty in readjusting to earth’s gravity. Not only was there the customary loss of weight and muscle tone during the flight, but for about ten days afterward “they also were troubled with a degree of instability in their cardiovascular systems and with difficulty in sleeping.” Hindrance in perceiving colors due to faulty eye coordination was also blamed on the extended absence of gravity.

These things are not ordinarily problems for healthy men at their earthly home. But, even more importantly, do men really want to stay away from the earth? Consider those who have been in outer space. They have made some telling statements that directly and indirectly indicate that earth is really man’s home.

When the United States space team in the Apollo 8 capsule circled within 69 miles of the moon’s surface they described it as “a vast, lonely, forbidding type expanse of nothing,” and not “a very inviting place to live or work.” The three-man crew read from the Bible book of Genesis, stressing what it says about the earth as being ‘good.’

Two Russian cosmonauts in 1970 are said to have “experienced a craving for ‘earth food.”’ And, in June last year, just hours before his death with two other cosmonauts at the time of their return to earth in Soyuz 11, veteran spaceman V. N. Volkov broadcast his observations of the earth: “You look down there and you get homesick. You want some sunshine, fresh air and to wander in the woods.” He, too, knew that earth is man’s home.

Yes, man is, in every last detail, of the earth. And the earth is in every way ideally suited for him. Scientific findings support that fact. The Bible has said it for thousands of years. Can you not therefore trust what it says about God’s purpose soon to make this earth a paradise, free from all wickedness?—Matt. 6:9, 10; Luke 23:43; Rev. 21:4, 5.

[Picture on page 292]

The sleeping habits of humans indicate that man was made for a twenty-four-hour cycle

[Picture on page 293]

The moon has much influence on the physical earth and its creatures. Is it a mere coincidence that there are correspondencies between the lunar cycle and the reproductive functions of a woman’s body?

[Picture on page 294]

Away from his earthly home, man encounters ever-present dangers; the effect of weightlessness on the circulatory system, for example, can kill a man on his return to earth’s gravity

The Problem of Calling Jesus “God”

● Many theologians recognize the problem of calling Jesus “God,” for as Theologian H. W. Montefiore wrote in the book Soundings—Essays Concerning Christian Understanding: “Jesus knew himself to be the Son of his heavenly Father: he described himself as Lord and as Son of Man. Negatively, he did not describe himself as God.” And The Christian Century, May 19, 1971, observed regarding the Roman Catholic theologian Karl Rahner that he “is willing to define Jesus as ‘Lord and Savior’ but stops short of calling him God.”

In a lecture delivered in 1968, Theology Professor G. H. Boobyer focused on this problem, and asked: “Can you hold together, as many New Testament scholars seem still to do, the two positions that on the one hand critical study of the Gospels discloses a Jesus with no consciousness of being God and making no claim to be God and on the other hand the belief that Nicene christology, declaring him ‘True God of true God’ is a right credalization of the New Testament evidence? I would at least suggest that this problem is becoming sufficiently acute today to be in itself a reason for that ‘re-appraisal of the Church’s belief in Christ right up to the present day’ which . . . A. Grillmeier speaks of as urgent.”

In other words, they are admitting that belief in the trinity is on a shaky foundation.

Ornamental or Idolatrous Representations—Which?

PERSONS desiring divine approval need to know whether certain representations are idolatrous or simply decorative, ornamental. One who cannot discern just what constitutes an idol would have difficulty in heeding the Bible’s commands: “Flee from idolatry.” “Guard yourselves from idols.” (1 Cor. 10:14; 1 John 5:21) This could be disastrous for the individual concerned. Why? Because idolaters are specifically named among those who will not inherit God‘s kingdom.—1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

What, then, makes something an idolatrous representation? Is a statue, picture, or the like, an idol because the creature or thing represented was at one time an object of worship? Can something be an idol in one part of the world but merely serve ornamental or decorative purposes in another part of the world? What should guide a Christian in determining whether he should get rid of certain items because of their idolatrous association?

The Holy Scriptures make it plain that not all pictures, statues and other representations are idols. Whether an object is an idol or not primarily depends on how it is viewed. This might be illustrated by ancient representations of bulls.

In the courtyard of the temple built by Solomon stood the “molten sea.” This large vessel rested upon the figures of twelve bulls. These representations thus served both a utilitarian and an ornamental purpose. But they were never worshiped. Supporting as they did a vessel that normally held around 11,600 gallons of water, the bulls were a fitting symbol of strength or power. (1 Ki. 7:26) They called attention to the truth enunciated at Psalm 62:11: “Strength belongs to God.”

On the other hand, the golden calves set up by King Jeroboam at Dan and Bethel were idols. They received actual worship in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Even though the claim was made that the golden calves represented Jehovah, this did not make the relative worship given to them acceptable. (1 Ki. 12:28; 14:7-9) Declared Jehovah through his prophet Isaiah: “I am Jehovah. That is my name; and to no one else shall I give my own glory, neither my praise to graven images.” (Isa. 42:8) By making the golden calves (evidently young bulls) and using them in worship, the Israelites made themselves guilty of exchanging God’s glory for something that misrepresented him. How insulting it was to the supreme Sovereign of the universe to be represented as a bull, “an eater of vegetation”!—Ps. 106:20.

The fact that the bull was an object of worship in the Northern Kingdom of Israel did not make the bulls at Solomon’s temple idols. Similarly, the fact that various creatures, plants and heavenly bodies—all part of God’s creative works—have been and still are being given veneration would not in itself make them unacceptable for decorative or ornamental purposes. Many things that were at one time worshiped by the ancients have lost their idolatrous significance and are generally regarded as being merely ornamental.

However, the Christian has to be careful that he does not begin to look upon any object as being something more than it actually is. This aspect was well expressed by Jehovah’s faithful servant Job: “If I used to see the light when it would flash forth, or the precious moon walking along, and my heart began to be enticed in secrecy and my hand proceeded to kiss my mouth, that too would be an error for attention by the justices, for I should have denied the true God above.”—Job 31:26-28.

Accordingly, if a Christian felt that the presence of a certain picture or object could stir up worshipful feelings because of its ancient idolatrous association, he would want to get rid of it. This could include personal ornaments, jewelry and the like. And, of course, he would not want to keep things that presently have a supposed sacred significance or that are specifically designed for use in false religious rituals. That would be true even if the items in question no longer had any religious significance to him. Like Christians in ancient Ephesus, he would destroy appendages of false worship, regardless of how expensive they may have been, so that no one else could misuse them.—Acts 19:19.

A Christian also has to keep in mind that he must give consideration to the consciences of others. Whereas personally he may not entertain any worshipful feelings toward a certain picture or object, others, because of their particular religious background, may view things quite differently. That this may even be the case among Christians is stressed by the apostle Paul’s inspired counsel: “Make this your decision, not to put before a brother a stumbling block or a cause for tripping. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is defiled in itself; only where a man considers something to be defiled, to him it is defiled.”—Rom. 14:13, 14.

So the person who desires God’s approval does well to examine the pictures and objects in his home to see whether he should make some changes. He might ask himself: Would persons in the community where I live regard certain pictures and objects in my possession as being more than mere ornaments or decorations? Do these people attach a certain religious significance to them, regarding them as holy or bringers of good fortune? Would certain pictures or objects in my home suggest to others that I am in agreement with false religious systems or practices? Do some of the things I have misrepresent the teachings of the Bible? If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes,” the wise course would be to eliminate from one’s home any possible cause for stumbling oneself or others.

Of course, there is no need to go to unreasonable extremes in this matter. Even encyclopedias and dictionaries contain illustrations of false gods and religious symbols. But one’s having such reference works in no way implies to others one’s agreeing with false concepts. A Bible with religious pictures and symbols might be viewed in the same light, that is, as a reference work.

It should be remembered, however, that the effect pictures and other representations have on people varies considerably. No one can make rules for others. So if a person found that he simply could not look at a picture without feeling the pull of false religion, he would be acting wisely if he were to get rid of it. Whenever there is any reasonable doubt, it is always best to choose the course that will leave one with a clear conscience before God.

Thus it becomes apparent that every person who desires God’s approval should give serious thought to this matter, in order to be sure that he understands what is pleasing to God. Once having done so, he can clean up his home religiously. As a result nothing that he has will detract from his giving exclusive devotion to his Creator, Jehovah God.

Do Not Miss the Purpose of Jehovah’s Deliverance

“Working together with him, we also entreat you not to accept the undeserved kindness of God and miss its purpose.”—2 Cor. 6:1.

1. How did the apostle Paul receive Jehovah’s undeserved kindness, and why did he appreciate it?

WHEN the apostle Paul spoke of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness, he was speaking from experience. Paul had accepted undeserved kindness himself from Jehovah and he appreciated it very much. Jehovah’s undeserved kindness was extended to him when he was actually on a mission to persecute Jehovah’s true servants, but Paul had a good heart, a receptive heart, and his heart was receptive to Jehovah’s kindness. (Acts 9:1-30) Paul reviewed his former course of conduct with the congregations in Galatia when he wrote: “You, of course, heard about my conduct formerly in Judaism, that to the point of excess I kept on persecuting the congregation of God and devastating it, and I was making greater progress in Judaism than many of my own age in my race, as I was far more zealous for the traditions of my fathers.” (Gal. 1:13, 14) But through Jehovah’s undeserved kindness, Paul was delivered from the unscriptural traditions of his fathers. He repented of his past course in life and set out on a new course.

2. What privilege was opened up to Paul through undeserved kindness? How did he respond?

2 At Galatians 1:15, 16 we learn that Paul was called to the Christian ministry through the undeserved kindness of Jehovah God. He said: “God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through his undeserved kindness, thought good to reveal his Son in connection with me, that I might declare the good news about him to the nations.” He also confirmed to the Ephesians that it was through undeserved kindness that he was called to the ministry: “I became a minister of this according to the free gift of the undeserved kindness of God that was given me according to the way his power operates. To me, a man less than the least of all holy ones, this undeserved kindness was given, that I should declare to the nations the good news about the unfathomable riches of the Christ.” (Eph. 3:7, 8) Paul showed that he appreciated Jehovah’s undeserved kindness by working hard in the ministry extended to him and thus he could very well recommend that others follow his example in the Christian ministry.—1 Cor. 11:1.

NEED FOR A CHANGED VIEWPOINT IN CORINTH

3, 4. Was there good reason for Paul to write the Corinthians about not missing the purpose of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness? Explain.

3 There was good reason for Paul to write to the Corinthians about Jehovah’s deliverance and his undeserved kindness. Apparently some of the Corinthian Christians had missed the purpose of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness. Ancient Corinth was reputedly a corrupt city, infamous for the worship of the false goddess Aphrodite, which included immoral sex worship. Of course, the Corinthian Christians had been delivered from slavery to this part of Babylon the Great. But apparently some in the congregation had slipped back into immorality and had missed the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance. It seems that they began to allow their environment to influence them to wrongdoing, for Paul said: “Actually fornication is reported among you, and such fornication as is not even among the nations, that a wife a certain man has of his father. And are you puffed up, and did you not rather mourn, in order that the man that committed this deed should be taken away from your midst?”—1 Cor. 5:1, 2.

4 Others in the Corinthian congregation had begun to follow men instead of Christ and so divisions or sects were forming in the congregation. This is evident by Paul’s words, “For the disclosure was made to me about you, my brothers, by those of the house of Chloe, that dissensions exist among you.” (1 Cor. 1:11) These Christians who were splitting up the Lord’s congregation were also missing the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance and his undeserved kindness.

5. How did the congregation at Corinth respond to apostolic counsel?

5 Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian congregation certainly helped the congregation to clean itself up. Those who were immoral were disfellowshiped, thrown out of the congregation. (1 Cor. 5:5, 11) Good counsel was given and all were admonished to work together in unity and love, following Christ and not men. (1 Cor. 1:10) Apparently the congregation took Paul’s counsel to heart, for his second letter to the Corinthian congregation gave them good commendation and encouragement, and Paul concluded at 2 Corinthians 13:11 by saying: “Finally, brothers, continue to rejoice, to be readjusted, to be comforted, to think in agreement, to live peaceably; and the God of love and of peace will be with you.”

MODERN-DAY DELIVERANCE

6. Explain why Christians today should reflect on Paul’s counsel not to miss the purpose of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness.

6 We do well today to reflect on Paul’s counsel to the Corinthians not to accept Jehovah’s undeserved kindness and miss its purpose. As those Corinthian Christians were surrounded by bad influence, we too must live, for the most part, in a wicked environment. Around us there are many who practice immorality, thievery, lying, cheating and other things detestable to Jehovah God. Of course, those who practice these things are not true Christians, but as true Christians we have left these things behind. The truth has set us free from these evil things. As Paul said: “That is what some of you were. But you have been washed clean.” (1 Cor. 6:11) As Christian witnesses of Jehovah we have particularly been delivered from slavery to Babylon the Great and her false doctrines and traditions as well as from the wickedness of this old system of things. Such deliverance, and the freedom that comes with it, is truly undeserved kindness from Jehovah God.

7. How did Paul evaluate the knowledge of Christ and the Christian ministry in comparison with the prestige and wealth of the Pharisees?

7 We have also been delivered from the materialistic bent which the people of this old system of things have, just as Paul was delivered from materialism in his day through Jehovah’s undeserved kindness. Paul himself, a former Pharisee, was a fine example of appreciation because he was willing to leave behind the prestige and the wealth of the Pharisees. Paul indicated that he did not overlook this aspect of his deliverance and Jehovah’s undeserved kindness. He considered prestige and wealth and worldly comforts as mere refuse or garbage when compared to the blessings he received through Jehovah’s undeserved kindness. He wrote: “Yet what things were gains to me, these I have considered loss on account of the Christ. Why, for that matter, I do indeed also consider all things to be loss on account of the excelling value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. On account of him I have taken the loss of all things and I consider them as a lot of refuse, that I may gain Christ.” (Phil. 3:7, 8) Yes, Paul used his Christian freedom well.

DO NOT MISS ITS PURPOSE

8. (a) What questions are here appropriate? (b) How might some answer?

8 In reflecting on Paul’s counsel and also the good example he set, we might ask: What are we doing with our freedom today? Are we following Paul’s good example, or perhaps have we missed the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance? Some might reply: “How could we miss the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance?” Someone could argue, “I try to live a clean life. I’m not involved in any immorality. I attend most of the meetings and I’m a regular proclaimer of God’s kingdom. I get out in the field service every month.”

9, 10. (a) What mistake do some Christians make? Does this affect their spirituality? (b) Give an example of what could happen when one tries to serve two masters.

9 But suppose we look at it this way: Even though you associate with a congregation of Jehovah’s witnesses, how strong are your ties to the old system of things? How closely are you connected to it? Some may be trying to serve two masters. They like the new system under Christ Jesus and are willing to do a little for it, but actually they work much harder for the old system of things under Satan the Devil. But make no mistake, Jesus said that one cannot serve two masters. He said: “You cannot slave for God and for Riches.” (Matt. 6:24) If we maintain strong ties with the old system of things, then this means very weak ties with the new system of things. If our ties to the old system are strong, then it means we are spiritually weak and are not reaching out for privileges of service, not making progress as Christians in Jehovah’s organization today.

10 Consider the example of a Christian who is an excellent worker on his job. His employer likes him and values his hard work. His employer knows that he is honest, that he is trustworthy, and therefore pays him well. The brother enjoys his work, he likes being trusted and he feels that all of this is a good recommendation as a Christian, having in mind Paul’s words at 1 Timothy 3:7, where he said we should have “a fine testimony from people on the outside.” But then what happens? The brother is offered a promotion. This means more responsibility. Now the job requires overtime work. Then it may cut into congregation meeting attendance and field service time. And how about personal study and family study? Often these things must be sacrificed completely by the one who is willing to accept more responsibility from his employer.

11. What danger could befall those who value material possessions too highly?

11 Has something like this happened to you? Does your employment prevent you from serving Jehovah as you should? Do you value the esteem of your employer more than Jehovah’s esteem? Where would you stand if Babylon the Great were destroyed tomorrow, followed shortly by the destruction of the rest of this old system of things? Would you escape such destruction or would you be caught up in it? Do you have a good conscience in connection with Jehovah’s service?

12. (a) Is it necessarily wrong to have material possessions? Why do you so answer? (b) What mistake did Demas make?

12 Satan operates very slyly through a love of material things. Of course, it is true that there is nothing wrong with a fine automobile, a good television, a fine home, appliances or other things if we can afford them and still put Jehovah God first in our lives. But the point is, do some put material things first and Jehovah second in their lives? This happened to some back in Paul’s day. We recall that Demas was an associate of Paul in the Christian ministry and he joined with Luke in sending greetings to the Christian congregation in Colossae by means of Paul’s letter to the Colossians. However, later on Demas forsook Paul and the Christian ministry. Why? Paul wrote Timothy: “Demas has forsaken me because he loved the present system of things, and he has gone to Thessalonica.” (2 Tim. 4:10) So even back in Paul’s day, there were those who began loving material things and worldly pleasures more than the Christian ministry and thus completely missed the purpose of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness.

13. (a) What is one reason for the problems facing Christendom? (b) Can we learn anything from this?

13 When love of material things comes before love of Jehovah, then truly we are missing the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance from this old system. We could soon become like the apostate Christians that are found in Christendom today. What little Christianity they may have had is now being crowded out by their love of material possessions and worldly pleasures. In reporting on the problems that face Christendom’s churches, one well-known American newsmagazine said: “What religious institutions are encountering, they say, is not hostility or division. . . . but massive indifference in a world increasingly enveloped by material values and worries.” (U.S. News & World Report, March 23, 1970, page 44) So these apostate Christians have replaced God with material things, making such their god and worshiping these material possessions. This could easily happen to us as Christians if we allow our love for Jehovah and his service to cool off and become influenced by the old system’s love of material possessions.

BENEFITING FROM AN ANCIENT EXAMPLE

14. (a) What was the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance of Israel from Babylon in 537 B.C.E.? (b) What were the faithful Jews to do at that time?

14 It is good for us to recall the deliverance of natural Israel from Babylon of old. That deliverance was for a purpose. Jehovah God wanted his true worship reestablished in Jerusalem and his temple rebuilt. In fact, the decree issued by Cyrus and recorded by Ezra specifically mentioned the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple: “Whoever there is among you of all his people, may his God prove to be with him. So let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and rebuild the house of Jehovah the God of Israel—he is the true God—which was in Jerusalem.” (Ezra 1:3) So faithful Jews were to leave old Babylon, return to Jerusalem, and there rebuild Jehovah’s temple and the city and begin reading Jehovah’s law to the people. They were to start offering the sacrifices to Jehovah again as commanded in his law. They were to learn all the requirements of true worship and then obey them.

15, 16. (a) Was it an easy thing for the remnant of Jews to return to Jerusalem and Judah? Explain. (b) What may have prevented many Jews from returning to Jerusalem?

15 Was this an easy assignment for those faithful Israelites? Certainly not. All of this involved effort—hard work. It meant a long trek through semidesert land, leaving behind the comforts of a nice home in Babylon and perhaps a good job there. It meant that they were to enter a broken-down city and build houses for themselves, houses that certainly would not be as comfortable as those they had enjoyed in the more modern city of Babylon. Food might be scarce, and of little variety. Life would not be so easy. It really meant rough going for those Jews who were putting true worship first.

16 On the other hand, some Jews may have loved old Babylon too much, not appreciating the real purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance. They may have liked their good jobs and their comfortable homes in the great city of Babylon. Some may have liked these things too much to leave them behind and return to Jerusalem. Perhaps they were too settled in their ways in old Babylon to consider a move. Besides that, they may have made good friends with some of the Babylonians for business reasons. Or perhaps they had good businesses which took much of their time and they did not want to give these up to return to Jerusalem and start all over, so to speak. Yes, it may have been a bleak prospect indeed for some of those Jews who held material possessions in higher esteem than the privilege of seeing true worship restored in Jerusalem.

17. (a) Who assisted the faithful remnant that returned to Judah and Jerusalem? (b) What blessing and privilege did these faithful Jews enjoy?

17 But those who did appreciate Jehovah’s deliverance from Babylon had Jehovah with them to help them. Ezra tells us: “Then the heads of the fathers of Judah and of Benjamin and the priests and the Levites rose up, even everyone whose spirit the true God had roused, to go up and rebuild the house of Jehovah, which was in Jerusalem.” (Ezra 1:5) Yes, Jehovah was with those faithful ones who appreciated his deliverance from Babylon and his undeserved kindness. With Jehovah’s help, they were able to restore true worship in Jerusalem, and this was a wonderful privilege for them. Indeed, they rejoiced at seeing true worship reestablished. The record says: “As for all the people, they shouted with a loud shout in praising Jehovah over the laying of the foundation of the house of Jehovah. And many of the priests and the Levites and the heads of the paternal houses, the old men that had seen the former house, were weeping with a loud voice at the laying of the foundation of this house before their eyes, while many others were raising the voice in shouting for joy.” (Ezra 3:11, 12) On the other hand, those who loved their homes in Babylon and their good jobs there more than the restoration of true worship lost out on this wonderful privilege of restoring true worship in Jerusalem.

18. What is involved that makes the matter more serious today? And what questions are asked?

18 However, this matter is even more serious today. More is involved than just losing out on a privilege of service. Today LIFE is involved. When Babylon the Great is destroyed, it will be too late to get out. Those who have trusted in it and in the rest of the old system will fall with it. So we ask: What is your position? Do you feel you can serve Jehovah and still put secular work or material possessions ahead of true worship?

19. Explain how we can follow Paul’s counsel at 2 Corinthians 13:5, and what could this reveal?

19 This is a good time to heed Paul’s counsel at 2 Corinthians 13:5: “Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are.” Why not sit down and analyze your schedule of activities. What does it reveal concerning your time? Is most of it taken up by secular work and caring for material possessions? Would it be difficult for you to give up your material possessions right now if Jehovah required it? If you have answered Yes, then you are in a very dangerous position. Your life is at stake now!

20. (a) What counsel of Jesus is very timely here? (b) What is it therefore appropriate for us to do?

20 Certainly this is no time to lose our position of favor in Jehovah’s organization. No one knows exactly when the “great tribulation” will strike and destroy this wicked system. We must be ready! Jesus said: “But pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare. For it will come in upon all those dwelling upon the face of all the earth. Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:34-36) It is therefore appropriate for each one of us to stop and test our faith to see if it is strong and whether we are spiritually awake. Then, if necessary, we should change our thinking so as to show appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance and for his undeserved kindness.

[Picture on page 300]

The Israelites who responded to King Cyrus’ decree to rebuild Jehovah’s temple appreciated the purpose of their deliverance; they put true worship ahead of material possessions. What is your position regarding true worship today?

Appreciating Jehovah’s Deliverance

1. (a) What deliverance has Jehovah given his servants today? (b) What was the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance to Israel in 537 B.C.E.? Why have His modern-day servants been delivered?

DELIVERANCE! Freedom! These are wonderful thoughts to those who find themselves in bondage or slavery. True Christians today rejoice to have experienced deliverance, deliverance from bondage to Babylon the Great and the rest of this old system of Satan the Devil. (2 Cor. 4:4) Such Christians enjoy real spiritual freedom, for the truth from God’s Word sets them free. (John 8:32) It is a wonderful experience to share in the freedom from spiritual bondage that Jehovah’s servants enjoy today. But as loyal servants, how can we show that we really appreciate Jehovah’s deliverance? How can we hold fast to this freedom we enjoy today? Well, it is good for us to remember the purpose of the deliverance given to Israel of old. What was that? It was to rebuild Jehovah’s temple and to restore true worship in Jerusalem. Likewise today, Jehovah delivers us from Babylon the Great so that we can take up true worship, so we can exalt Jehovah’s name and make it known by participating in the ministry that he gives to us. (Rom. 10:13-15) So in connection with Jehovah’s true worship and the Christian ministry, there are some things that will help us to show heartfelt appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance. Suppose we take some time to review these.

CORRECT MENTAL ATTITUDE

2. What was Paul’s attitude concerning the Christian ministry?

2 In connection with the Christian ministry, the apostle Paul had the correct mental attitude. He enjoyed the ministry and always tried to set a good example in it: “In no way are we giving any cause for stumbling, that our ministry might not be found fault with; but in every way we recommend ourselves as God’s ministers.” (2 Cor. 6:3, 4) Paul then mentioned many things he endured, such as tribulations, cases of need, difficulties, beatings, prisons, disorders, labors, sleepless nights, lack of food. But through it all Paul maintained a good mental attitude. It is very important for us to have a good mental attitude if we want to show real appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance from Babylon the Great.

3. (a) How can the word “attitude” be defined? (b) In what ways should our attitude be positive, and in what ways should it be negative?

3 One English-language dictionary defines attitude as “behavior representative of feeling or conviction,” or “a persistent disposition to act either positively or negatively toward a person, group, object, situation or value.” This means, then, that your mental attitude really reflects your feelings, your convictions. Now, speaking of convictions, Are you really convinced that you have the truth? Are you convinced that Babylon the Great has fallen? Are you convinced that the old system is doomed by Jehovah, that there is no use to tie yourself to it? If you have such a conviction, then your disposition should be positive toward the new system of things and toward Jehovah’s organization. It should be positive toward Jehovah’s kingdom. This disposition is manifest in our actions, including our attitude toward the Christian ministry. We will then carry out our ministry as Paul did. Concerning it he wrote: “The good news we preach did not turn up among you with speech alone but also with power and with holy spirit and strong conviction, just as you know what sort of men we became to you for your sakes.” (1 Thess. 1:5) If our disposition is positive toward God’s kingdom and His new system, then it would be negative toward this world and its materialistic attractions.

4. (a) What mental attitude did Jesus have and which we do well to copy? (b) What appropriate counsel is given to those who have much in a material way?

4 Paul recommended that we copy the mental attitude that Christ had: “Now may the God who supplies endurance and comfort grant you to have among yourselves the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus had.” (Rom. 15:5) Jesus was so positive in his feelings for Jehovah’s kingdom and Jehovah’s work that he said it was like food for him to do his Father’s will. (John 4:34) Jesus also had a mental attitude of humility, lowliness of mind. Paul recommended that we imitate this good attitude also and work out our salvation “with fear and trembling.” (Phil. 2:5, 12) Such a right mental attitude would help those who might have an abundance of material things not to depend on these things, or to think that because they are materially wealthy they can influence servants in Jehovah’s organization. Rather such brothers will be humble and use material things they may possess to advance Kingdom interests. At 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Paul gives good counsel to those who may have an abundance of material things: “Give orders to those who are rich in the present system of things not to be high-minded, and to rest their hope, not on uncertain riches, but on God, who furnishes us all things richly for our enjoyment; to work at good, to be rich in fine works, to be liberal, ready to share, safely treasuring up for themselves a fine foundation for the future, in order that they may get a firm hold on the real life.” A correct mental attitude, then, will help all of us to see the importance of the Christian ministry, the need to stick close to Jehovah God and support his new system of things and his kingdom rather than the old system of things.

LOVE

5. Explain why we should show love for our Father, Jehovah.

5 Love for our God Jehovah is also essential to show real appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance. Jehovah has taken the initiative in showing love to us. He has provided his Son as a ransomer, and this is really the basis for our deliverance from Babylon the Great and the rest of this old system of things. Therefore, John wrote: “As for us, we love, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) So since Jehovah has first shown love to us, we should show love for him in return. Have you ever noticed that a young child who truly loves his father will talk about his father? He will speak of the many good things his father has done for him. Yes, he wants everyone to know what a good father he has. He will not be like an unloving, unappreciative child who never thanks his father, but takes everything for granted and always begs for more.

6. Love for Jehovah requires what, and what does it mean to have ‘freeness of speech’?

6 John shows that, as Christians with love for our Father, we should observe Jehovah’s commandments. So, if we really love our Father, Jehovah, we will observe his commands to preach and to teach in all the earth. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) Thus, as loving children, we will be speaking about the good things Jehovah will do for those putting faith in him and his Son. “For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3) Yes, it is true! It is a pleasure, not a burden, to show love for Jehovah by speaking about his good things and obeying his commands. Christians should have freeness of speech about their heavenly Father, Jehovah. Paul warned us to be careful to hold on to this freeness of speech. He wrote: “Do not, therefore, throw away your freeness of speech, which has a great reward to be paid it.” (Heb. 10:35) So we can surely show appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance by freely speaking about him and the blessings he promises those of mankind who love him and put faith in him and his Son.

BREAKING OFF BAD ASSOCIATIONS

7. Why are worldly people bad associates for a Christian?

7 Another vital way to show appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance is by breaking off bad associations. People of this old system of things are bad associates. They do not love Jehovah, otherwise they would be serving him too. We find that most people of the old system love money, material things, all that this system can give them. And there are many who delight in immoral, wicked things. They are not at all interested in Jehovah and the principles of his new system. Perhaps some of Jehovah’s servants have friends like that. They may maintain friendship with such worldly people for business reasons, but this is indeed a very dangerous course of action.

8. Explain what could happen to a Christian who does not heed the counsel at 1 Corinthians 15:33.

8 Why should a Christian witness of Jehovah associate with people who do not love Jehovah? He will soon begin thinking as they do, putting material things ahead of spiritual interests. We cannot deny the truthfulness of Paul’s words at 1 Corinthians 15:33, where he wrote: “Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.” If we maintain worldly associations for business reasons, certainly these bad worldly associations will eventually spoil our useful habits in the Christian ministry. Good habits of personal study and meeting attendance will be forgotten. Paul’s counsel at 2 Corinthians 6:14 is also apropos: “Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with darkness?” If we really appreciate the deliverance Jehovah has provided us, then we do not want to get ourselves yoked up with unbelievers in any way, whether through marriage mates or so-called “friends” in business. Breaking off bad associations is urgent right now before it is too late! If we do so, then we can take full advantage of Jehovah’s deliverance and the spiritual freedom it provides.

PUTTING FAITH IN JEHOVAH

9. Why is it unwise to put faith in material possessions?

9 We can also show appreciation for our deliverance by putting faith in Jehovah and relying on him. The old system does not believe in Jehovah, so those supporting it put their faith in their material possessions. Are you putting faith in your material possessions? Are you constantly worried about getting them? And once you have them, worried about holding onto them? If so, what do you expect these material possessions to do for you? It is always wise to remember the words of Psalm 49:6, 7: “Those who are trusting in their means of maintenance, and who keep boasting about the abundance of their riches, not one of them can by any means redeem even a brother, nor give to God a ransom for him.” And Ps 49 verse 10 adds: “And they must leave to others their means of maintenance.”

10. (a) What is Jehovah’s promise to those who put Kingdom interests first? (b) Show how Jehovah kept this promise in times past.

10 Christians must have faith not only that God exists, but also that he will provide the necessary things for those who wisely put Kingdom interests first in their lives. We know that Jehovah will do this because Jesus said He would. In Matthew chapter 6 Jesus spoke of how God takes good care of the vegetation and the birds, and then he said: “Will he not much rather clothe you, you with little faith?” So Jesus’ counsel was “never be anxious and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or, ‘What are we to drink?’ or, ‘What are we to put on?’ For all these are the things the nations are eagerly pursuing. For your heavenly Father knows you need all these things. Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.” (Matt. 6:30-33) Do not forget this promise of Jehovah. Exhibit your faith; rely on Jehovah. He never fails his people. He provides the necessary things we need as we put Kingdom interests first. Jehovah blessed his faithful servants of old with the things they needed. (Mal. 3:10) The Israelites who were delivered from Babylon and returned to Jerusalem in 537 B.C.E. did not suffer, but Jehovah saw to it they had sufficient food, clothing and shelter. Ezra tells us: “As for all those round about them, they strengthened their hands with utensils of silver, with gold, with goods and with domestic animals and with choice things, besides all that which was voluntarily offered.” (Ezra 1:6) Jehovah promises to provide the needed things for his servants today IF we put true worship and Kingdom interests first in our lives. So show appreciation for Jehovah’s deliverance by putting faith in him, relying on him for your material needs as you put Kingdom interests first.

APPRECIATE SPIRITUAL THINGS

11. How do we know that Jesus appreciated spiritual things?

11 It is also advisable to develop our appreciation of spiritual things. This is possible if our mental attitude is correct and if we put faith in Jehovah. We recall that Jesus appreciated spiritual things. He said that man does not live on bread alone but “on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah’s mouth.” (Matt. 4:4) So the words from Jehovah as expressed in his Word are important and we must appreciate them.

12. Explain the viewpoint of worldly people and of true Christians with regard to spiritual matters, and what counsel is appropriate here?

12 People of this old system have little love for spiritual values. Paul referred to this when he wrote: “But a physical man does not receive the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot get to know them, because they are examined spiritually.” (1 Cor. 2:14) However, in the next verse (1 Co 2 verse 15), Paul shows that Christians should be spiritual men, loving spiritual things, for Paul says, “the spiritual man examines indeed all things.” Putting emphasis on spiritual values in life will prevent our being trapped by love for material possessions or pleasures. Here the words of the psalmist are very appropriate: “Incline my heart to your reminders, and not to profits.”—Ps. 119:36.

13. What does our conversation reveal about us, and so what is recommended?

13 Often our conversation alone will reveal what we really love, whether it is material possessions or spiritual values. Have you noticed that Christians in the full-time ministry as pioneers, as well as many others who have a real pioneer spirit, love to discuss the new things they learn from Jehovah’s Word in the weekly congregational meetings. Or they are often heard relating experiences enjoyed in the field ministry or the spiritual progress of new ones in the congregation. Their lives are filled to overflowing with Jehovah’s service. They love his service and they love spiritual things, and you seldom hear them discussing material possessions or pleasures. Such Christian brothers and sisters are excellent examples in appreciating the right things. So it is good to develop greater appreciation of spiritual matters and to talk about the joys of the service and the good things we are learning from God’s Word, for this will certainly help us to show we appreciate Jehovah’s deliverance and the freedom that he gives us.—Ps. 34:1.

REACH OUT FOR SERVICE PRIVILEGES

14. (a) How can we show in our lives that we believe John’s words at 1 John 2:16, 17? (b) In order to progress spiritually, what should Christians do?

14 Finally, it is recommended that we reach out for privileges of service in Jehovah’s organization, rather than promotions in Satan’s organization. Do we really believe John’s words at 1 John 2:16, 17, where he wrote: “Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire”? If we do believe what John wrote, then why look for more promotions in a dying world? If we do, it indicates we may love the old system more than Jehovah’s new system of things. However, John also wrote: “But he that does the will of God remains forever.” How much better it is, then, to do Jehovah’s will, to be reaching out for privileges of service in his organization, promoting the new system of things and expanding our ministry. It is good for all to progress as Christians, to set reasonable goals each year and work hard toward reaching those goals. Paul tells us: “At any rate, to what extent we have made progress, let us go on walking orderly in this same routine.” (Phil. 3:16) So we should never slow down or stop in our spiritual progress as Christians.

15. What privileges are available to those who reach out for them, and what is the best work we can perform today?

15 Jehovah’s work is expanding rapidly today. Thousands of people are dedicating themselves to Jehovah and coming into his organization. Why, just last year there were 149,808 baptized! What a tremendous crowd in just one year. Missionaries are still being sent out, and there is a need for more servants, more special pioneers, more regular pioneers. Yes, there are many wonderful privileges and blessings available to those who reach out for these service privileges this side of Armageddon and untold blessings after Armageddon in Jehovah’s new system of things. Paul said that one reaching out to be an overseer was desirous of a fine work. (1 Tim. 3:1) Besides such overseer work, there are many other important tasks that need to be done. There is plenty of work to do in Jehovah’s service—enjoyable work. As Paul said: “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) Yes, work for this old system of things is in vain. It is a dying system; why work to perpetuate it? We may get caught up and destroyed with it. How much better to do work that is not in vain in connection with the Lord. Our working diligently for the Lord and reaching out for privileges of service in Jehovah’s organization are excellent ways to express our appreciation to Jehovah for his deliverance.—1 Tim. 3:13.

16, 17. (a) What fine example was set by the faithful Jewish remnant that left Babylon in 537 B.C.E.? (b) Why is it urgent for Christians to imitate this example?

16 Keep close in mind the good example set by the faithful Jewish remnant that left Babylon years ago and returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. They appreciated their deliverance from Babylon. They had a good mental attitude. They loved Jehovah and his worship and they wanted to see the temple rebuilt and true worship restored. They were not tied so closely to their homes and their jobs in Babylon that they could not give these up. They were ready and willing to leave these things and go to Jerusalem, with full faith that Jehovah would bless and protect them. They were happy to leave Babylon and its materialism in order to share in the precious privilege of restoring true worship.—Ezra 3:11, 12.

17 We are encouraged, then, to follow this good example of love for Jehovah and true worship rather than be too tied down to homes and jobs and material possessions, enjoying too much what this old system offers for a few more years. This matter is really urgent! Time is running out for those who allow themselves to be trapped by pursuit of material pleasures. Those who continue to trust in Babylon the Great and the rest of this old system have little time left to heed the warning: “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.” (Rev. 18:4) Yes, Paul’s words are even more urgent today than they were in his day: “Look! Now is the especially acceptable time. Look! Now is the day of salvation.”—2 Cor. 6:2.

18. Summarize how we can show appreciation to Jehovah for his deliverance and undeserved kindness.

18 Show that you have not missed the purpose of Jehovah’s deliverance. Always display the right mental attitude toward Jehovah’s new system of things. (Matt. 6:33) Be positive toward Jehovah’s kingdom and His new system of righteousness. Then express heartfelt love for Jehovah God and his blessings by action, especially by regular participation in the Christian ministry. (1 Pet. 1:13) Break off from any bad association with those who love material things and this old system more than Jehovah. (2 Tim. 3:5) Put faith in Jehovah God; rely on him for necessities as you put Kingdom interests first in your life. (1 Tim. 6:6-8) Back up your faith with works. (Jas. 2:26) Then develop greater appreciation for spiritual things and let these spiritual matters take precedence over material values in your life. (2 Pet. 1:5-8) Reach out for greater privileges in Jehovah’s organization rather than promotions in Satan’s organization. Truly we are living at a most wonderful time in human history to know and serve our God Jehovah, promoting true worship. May we all appreciate and act on Paul’s counsel: “We also entreat you not to accept the undeserved kindness of God and miss its purpose.”—2 Cor. 6:1.

Do Not Try God’s Patience Too Far

THE apostle Peter provided an answer to those who desire their own way of living without godly restrictions. Denying that God will bring the world to account for its works, they say: “Where is this promised presence of his [Jehovah’s “day”]? Why, from the day our forefathers fell asleep in death, all things are continuing exactly as from creation’s beginning.” They say, in effect, “God is dead.”

Peter said of those men: “According to their wish, this fact escapes their notice, that there were heavens from of old and an earth standing compactly out of water and in the midst of water [dry land standing above the seas and a heavy canopy of water vapor in earth’s atmosphere] by the word of God; and by those means the world of that time suffered destruction when it was deluged with water.”

Then the apostle applies the illustration to a coming destruction of the present system of things and gives the reason for the seeming delay when he says: “Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.”—2 Pet. 3:3-10.

WHEN GOD’S PATIENCE RUNS OUT

How long has it been since God executed judgment on a nation or a people? In this year 1972 it has been 1,902 years. That is the time since Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 C.E. What patience! But do not presume on that fine quality of God. For, when it becomes clearly evident before all that a person or even an entire nation is not going to change, woe to that person or nation! God does not change his principles. It is always true that “a man repeatedly reproved but making his neck hard will suddenly be broken, and that without healing.”—Prov. 29:1; 28:14.

…

Refine Search

Index Downloading...

The Watchtower, May 15, 1972