The Watchtower, February 15, 1974

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The Watchtower — February 15, 1974

Source: jw.org

Contents

The Increase of Lawlessness—Why?

Insight on the News

Do People Find You “Mild-tempered and Lowly in Heart”?

Rulers for the People’s Interests

Christian Maturity—Necessary for Life

‘Make Your Advancement Manifest’

Widening Out in Our Love for Mankind

‘Out of the Heart’s Abundance’

Questions From Readers

Whom Can You Trust?

The Increase of Lawlessness—Why?

JESUS CHRIST, the Son of God, gave a strikingly detailed prophecy by which we could identify the time when the wicked system of things that has long dominated this earth would be brought to its end. Known as “the sign” of Christ’s presence, this prophecy consists of many features, one of which is “the increasing of lawlessness.”—Matt. 24:12.

Does the current trend of lawlessness fit his description? Is there sound reason to believe that the time has come when God will intervene in men’s affairs and cause righteousness to prevail?

WHAT REALLY IS HAPPENING?

When mention is made of an increase in lawlessness, some persons may call to mind reports saying that this trend is slowing down and may even have been reversed. According to one recent report, during 1972 there was a decrease of almost 2 percent in serious crime reported in the United States, the first decrease in seventeen years. But actually this report gives little reason for comfort. Why? Because the reports show that the more violent crimes greatly increased in number. Thus during those same eight months, murder increased 9 percent, aggravated assault and rape each 8 percent. And this is the kind of lawlessness that people fear most, because of its viciousness. Further, the “decrease” in crimes not considered so serious was not necessarily because fewer crimes were committed. Rather, some authorities believe that it is simply because fewer crimes were reported.

That crime is still on the increase is evident in how it has affected daily life. A California University psychology professor recently said: “At first the gas station wouldn’t accept cash after ten [o’clock]. Then the bus drivers stopped making change any time. Taxi companies installed bulletproof glass [between the drivers and their passengers] . . . The market in home protection devices is booming. There are call buttons to the police station, windows wired to alarm bells and home radar systems; new housing developments boast twenty-four-hour security guards. . . . There are TV cameras everywhere,” to spot shoplifters, drug pushers, and bank robbers. Does that sound to you as though crime is decreasing?

And that is not all. What about the antitheft devices on your car? the locks on your house? the apprehension that prevents you from enjoying a park? the fear that stops you from going out for a walk alone in the evening?

Crime is rampant everywhere—in business, in government, on the streets, in the schools and, all too often, it invades the home. It is not limited to a few nations; they are all affected, and badly so. If the events of our day do not fulfill “the sign” that Jesus gave, what more is needed?

WHY? WHY? WHY?

“But why the increase of lawlessness?” That is the question that is being asked on every hand.

No doubt many factors contribute. Some blame the modern prison system, which all too often seems to harden rather than to reform lawbreakers. Others blame judges, saying that many of them are too lenient.

Among other things that contribute to the increase of lawlessness is corruption in government. Also, motion pictures and TV programs encourage lawlessness by making heroes out of criminals and other unprincipled characters.

However, could it be that all such factors are merely the running sores, as it were, of the problem, and that the causes of the increase of lawlessness are far more deep-seated? A crime investigator for the United States Senate singles out three basic causes: the home, the schools and the churches.

The Bible probes even deeper. It identifies Satan the Devil as the one chief culprit. Some may scoff. But the explanations that they offer for present conditions are not adequate to explain the staggering upsurge in lawlessness. The Bible, on the other hand, long ago pinpointed this generation as one that would experience these things.a It has proved right in that. It also identifies the one chiefly responsible for the increased woe as Satan the Devil, who is infuriated because he knows his time is short. There is every reason to believe what it says on this.—Rev. 12:9-12.

THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CHURCHES

In the face of this, some persons might have expected the churches to be a force that would counteract the lawless trend. But exactly the opposite has been the case.

When interviewed on the crime situation, Senator John McClellan said: “In my judgment, some churches no longer demand a truly high standard of integrity and morality today. They don’t have the same ideals of Christian living that were observed and practiced in the past.” And when asked whether this was a factor in the increase in crime, he replied: “There’s no question about it.”—U.S. News & World Report.

However, the influence has not been merely passive, merely a matter of neglect. In widely publicized cases religious leaders have set a corrupting example for others. Thus, the wife of the late Paul Tillich, in an autobiography of her life with this eminent Protestant theologian, tells of the many adulterous affairs he had with other women. Yet in the religious world he was admired.

Publicly, from their pulpits and in printed articles, the clergy have undercut respect for the high moral principles set out in the Bible. How so? In that they have discredited as myth the Bible accounts of creation, of the Flood and of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, while endorsing evolution, which knows nothing of morality. And, obviously, when people come to view one part of the Bible as fiction, how seriously are they going to take the rest of it?

These things are significant, especially in view of the fact that, in his prophecy about our day, Jesus Christ linked the activity of “false prophets” with the “increasing of lawlessness.” (Matt. 24:11, 12) By allowing pride to cause them to put their own opinions ahead of the Word of God, they allow themselves to be used by the Devil, and thus contribute to the hard conditions upon mankind.

Clergymen have also contributed to the increase of lawlessness by their rejecting the teaching of the kingdom of God in favor of a “social gospel.” Interestingly, the famed English writer H. G. Wells noted this fact: “Remarkable is the enormous prominence given by Jesus to the teaching of what he called the Kingdom of Heaven, and its comparative insignificance in the procedure and teaching of most of the Christian churches.”—The Outline of History.

Because they do not put their trust in God’s kingdom to bring about a condition of justice and righteousness on earth, the clergy, both Catholic and Protestant, have mixed in politics and felt free to resort to violence and to aid and abet others in acts of violence on the premise that the end justifies the means. But do two wrongs make a right? Jesus warned his followers not to resort to violence and pronounced happy those who are peaceable.—Matt. 5:9; 26:52.

What is the bloodshed in Ireland but the result of religion mixing in politics? And one of the most recent examples involves some of the clergy in Chile, a number of whom were expelled from that country. As one of their group complained: “They [the new military government] hold us responsible for bringing Marxism and class struggle into the country.” Whether they acknowledge that the charge is true or not, can the clergy honestly deny that they have been involved in politics instead of preaching the kingdom of God? It is by such activities that they have laid themselves open to the charge that has been laid against them.

Whether prominent men with their pride advocate it or not, the kingdom of God is the Creator’s provision for cleaning lawlessness out of the earth. Reassuringly God’s Word says: “Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more . . . Hope in Jehovah and keep his way, and he will exalt you to take possession of the earth. When the wicked ones are cut off, you will see it.”—Ps. 37:10, 34.

In that new order, now near at hand, “righteousness is to dwell.” (2 Pet. 3:13) There will be no need for locks on your home. Whenever anyone approaches, you can be confident that you will be able to welcome him as a friend. Free from fear, you will be able to walk alone, if you choose, even at night, to enjoy the sound of the crickets and the beauty of the starry heavens above. There will be true security earth wide. The Creator of heaven and earth has promised it.

But will you be there? Now is the time to learn Jehovah’s requirements and to bring your life into harmony with them. Jehovah’s witnesses will be glad to help you.

[Footnotes]

For details, see the book God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached.

[Picture on page 99]

Fear causes people to live behind locked doors

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How grand it will be when no locks are needed, when everyone can be welcomed as a friend!

Insight on the News

Celibacy Troubles

● The centuries-old celibacy rule for Roman Catholic priests is causing trouble again.

It should. Such a requirement is in direct conflict with the teachings of the Bible.

On December 23, the Vatican newspaper “L’Osservatore Romano,” pleading with priests not to abandon their ministry, said that every priest must “do the impossible to remain at his post.”

That “impossible” requirement actually stems from the falling away from true worship that began after the death of the apostles of Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul foretold that one of the features of that apostasy would be “forbidding to marry.” Does that surprise you? Check it for yourself in any version of the Bible, at 1 Timothy 4:1-3. Obviously the Catholic Church has dropped the Bible standard in favor of its own, and that leads to trouble.

The article in “L’Osservatore” went on to say to those who are priests: “If you commit moral errors—you must not, but it may happen, because you too are weak—you have many remedies.” According to “Newsweek” (December 3, 1973), some priests, though remaining unmarried, are finding their own ‘remedy’ in intimate association with women and, at times, in sexual intercourse.

Of course, that is nothing new. Many Catholics have long been aware of priests who do it. But what especially bothers the church is, not the immorality of these priests, but the fact that now many are leaving the priesthood for marriage. The number of priests has dropped by about 20,000 in the past three years.

Fear of Crime

● More and more the United States is becoming a terror-ridden “armed camp.”

Fear pervades “all levels of U.S. society,” according to a Gallup poll taken in 1973. One person in three in the big cities and one in five in the suburbs has been mugged or robbed, or has been the victim of burglars or has had his property vandalized in the past year. Four persons in ten are afraid to walk alone at night even in their own neighborhood.

Some people believe that the way to cope with violence is to be ready to use violence in return. As a result, in Detroit, the nation’s top crime city, it has been estimated that there are 500,000 handguns, one for every third man, woman and child. The situation is not much different elsewhere. People live in fear.

Is that what you want? You cannot change the world around you, but you can change your way of dealing with it. The truly safe thing is to ‘beat your instruments of warfare into implements of peace, and to learn war no more.’ But why? Because that is what the Creator tells us to do. If wrongs are committed against his servants, God assures us that he will repay.—Isa. 2:2-4; Rom. 12:17-19.

True, people around you may want to take matters into their own hands. But if you care about life, which makes more sense—to pay attention to the counsel of the Source and Sustainer of life, or to imitate mortal men?

Self-Interest Rules

● Experts in the large metal-consuming nations see trouble ahead, in the form of an exorbitant price boost in vital metals.

One official advocates stockpiling now so as to have bargaining power in dealing with the metal-producing countries. “With it,” he said, “you don’t let these bandits hold you up.”

The immediate cause for excitement is that the nations supplying vital aluminum ore are planning to establish an organization similar to the Organization of Oil Exporting countries, which hiked oil prices to an all-time high. Other organizations of copper- and tin-producing countries already exist.

Calling the producing nations “bandits” is like the ‘pot calling the kettle black.’ Consider the position of those nations. Workmen in most of them have subsisted on very low wages. And they remember also how the larger nations have often exploited them.

This situation is but another evidence that this world’s economic system is permeated with selfishness. Self-interest rules.

Actually, these distresses are signs that this present system is soon to be superseded by God’s kingdom. Under its rule, says God’s prophet, “righteousness is what the inhabitants of the productive land will certainly learn.” What a welcome change that will be!—Isa. 26:9.

Do People Find You “Mild-tempered and Lowly in Heart”?

HOW appealing the words of God’s Son: “Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. . . . for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls.” (Matt. 11:28, 29) Do we strive to be like him?

Men serving as overseers (elders) in a Christian congregation will recognize that persons’ need for refreshment does not automatically end once they have directed themselves to God’s Son and become his disciples. Living under the present oppressive world conditions, Christian disciples are buffeted daily by many of the same hard problems that people in general must bear. Added to this, they may be ‘suffering for righteousness’ sake’ in having to endure opposition from unbelieving mates or relatives, from employers, fellow employees, schoolmates or other sources. How much they can benefit from elders who are kind and considerate!

Yes, representing Christ’s kingdom government as they do, elders should strive to fit the description of the “princes” given at Isaiah 32:1, 2, being as refreshing as “a hiding place from the wind and a place of concealment from the rainstorm, like streams of water in a waterless country, like the shadow of a heavy crag in an exhausted land.”

A RIGHT SPIRIT MAKES ONE APPROACHABLE

To be like that we must, of course, be approachable. Perhaps we may personally feel that we are. Yet any of us could rightly ask himself questions like these: ‘What kind of persons approach me? Are the humble and even the timid among them? What if those approaching me are mainly those of a more dominant personality—perhaps even persons who tend to flatter or, in the opposite direction, who are prone to voice bold criticisms? This would not prove me truly approachable, would it?’—Jas. 4:6.

Much depends on the spirit we show. Jesus’ words at Matthew 20:25-28 rule out any place among his disciples for the spirit of worldly men of authority. There is no room for their aloof, superior air—not if true brotherhood is to prevail. The same is true of their ‘false modesty.’ We doubtless have seen men of high worldly position who like to appear as though they are ‘putting themselves on a level’ with common people. Yet their feeling of superiority shows through in one way or another to remind you of their position, never letting you forget ‘just who they are’ so as to feel really at ease with them. Are we ever like that?

Though appearing quite good-natured and apparently interested in people, how frequently men of worldly position prove to be like the proverbial “iron hand in a velvet glove”—the closer the contact the less mildness is felt and the harder the person becomes. What a contrast with the example of God’s Son! His ‘mildness of temper and lowliness of heart’ were not in mere words. Those ‘coming to him’ found the reality equal to all that his invitation implied.

The apostle Paul’s fine counsel at Romans 12:16 (New English Bible) is surely appropriate here: “Care as much about each other as about yourselves. Do not be haughty, but go about with humble folk [be led along with the lowly things, New World Translation]. Do not keep thinking how wise you are.” If persons with positions of responsibility were consistently to associate with only those of like position, or with persons successful in secular affairs, would this not result in a barrier between them and those who are among the “humble folk”? And, for Christian overseers, this could hinder their having a clear understanding of the feelings and needs of their brothers. It could cause them to become ‘out of touch’ with the real circumstances. Really, the forming of “class distinctions” of any kind is detrimental to the spiritual health of the congregation headed by God’s Son.—Jas. 2:1-9.

We must guard against ever becoming wise and ‘discreet in our own eyes,’ feeling that our judgment, ability and methods surpass those of our fellows, for this would soon show up in our speech and manner. (Rom. 12:16; Luke 6:45) Jesus’ lowliness of heart drew people to him. Christian elders have far greater cause for humility, for, unlike God’s Son, they are humanly imperfect; they make mistakes.

A test of their lowliness of heart may be when a mistake is brought to their attention or when someone, whether a fellow elder or someone else, presents a suggestion for improvement in some congregational arrangement. The person “lowly in heart” will not incline to take such suggestions as something personal, as a criticism of his motives or manner of handling matters. To do so would cause humble ones to come to fear to approach him. (Eccl. 7:9) He should be willing to receive counsel as well as to give it. (Rom. 2:21) Thereby he shows he is not like those prominent ones of Israel who came to view themselves as “gods” among the people, beyond the need for counsel or correction. (Compare Psalm 82:6, 7; Isaiah 40:13, 14.) “Sheep” will approach truly mild-tempered “shepherds” with confidence of receiving only good.—Ps. 23:1-6.

Certainly none of us want to add to the weight resting on any of our brothers but, rather, to refresh. Yet we might add to their load if we were abrupt, hasty or impatient when approached by them. Knowing that “the heart of the righteous one meditates so as to answer,” we should not be quick to jump to conclusions, to reprove or reprimand, without hearing the whole of a matter. (Prov. 15:28; 29:20; Jas. 1:19) We could add to any ‘weighted-down’ feeling of our brothers if we showed ourselves suspicious of their motives or were quick to imply that they have not been doing what they should or as much as they should. We should not incline to ‘think the worst’ but, moved by love, should ‘hope for the best.’—1 Cor. 13:7; Gal. 6:1.

Certainly those elders who become like God’s Son in his mildness of temper and lowliness of heart set a splendid example for all the flock. (1 Pet. 5:3) Those approaching congregational elders, therefore, will want to display as well these same fine qualities. They would not want to be insistent or ill-mannered in approaching these brothers, nor claim their time unnecessarily, with no consideration for others who may want such ones’ aid. (Heb. 13:17) Rather than be hasty in their words or impatient, they may find it good to meditate on their inquiry or problem beforehand to see if it is really worth bringing to an elder’s attention. They may find the answer is actually already available to them, calling for only a little personal effort or study.

How refreshing to be among persons manifesting the admirable qualities of Jehovah God and his Son! Yes, it is a foretaste of what life will be like in God’s approaching new order of righteousness.—Ps. 133:1-3.

Rulers for the People’s Interests

DO YOU feel that the rulers of earth have cared for the interests of the people they serve? Undoubtedly, some have tried. But those who do try usually find that corruption in their own government nullifies their efforts, so that the people’s interests are neglected. This has been true ever since the days of Nimrod, some four thousand years ago.

Can an improvement be made? Can rulers be found who can and will serve the interests of all their subjects? Where would you look?

There is one authoritative place to look. That is the Bible. Do you have faith in what it says? Do you believe in God? Do you believe his promise to provide a government that will rule for the good of the people, and do you believe that he can select rulers that will really serve the people’s interests?

IDENTIFYING THE CHIEF RULER

If you have read the Bible, you know it says that God will provide a righteous Ruler, a Messiah or anointed King, as Chief Ruler, along with associate rulers. If you believe this, then, whether you are Jew or Gentile, you cannot escape the conclusion that the Chief Ruler has already been made manifest and can unmistakably be identified as Jesus Christ. How so? Because it is impossible for anyone else to fulfill the requirements. How can this be said with such certainty?

Well, consider the facts. The Bible, in the Hebrew Scriptures, set forth certain rigid qualifications for the one to be the Messiah, the anointed King that would rule the earth in righteousness for a thousand years. Among these requirements, he was to sit on the “throne of David.” (Isa. 9:6, 7; Jer. 33:20, 21; Acts 2:29, 30) He had to be a natural heir of King David of the tribe of Judah. And he had to be of the kingly line, inheriting the kingly right, which was in the hands of David’s posterity through his son and successor King Solomon.

Does Jesus Christ have proof of this from genealogical records? Yes, he does. He was of the tribe of Judah and the lineage of David by natural birth through his mother, who descended through David’s son Nathan. (Luke 3:23-38) And he had the legal right transferred to him through his foster-father Joseph, who was from David through King Solomon. (Matt. 1:1-17) Details of this genealogy are a matter of public record in the Bible. Only the Bible record of this lineage remains. There are absolutely no other records of David’s descendants extant, because these were destroyed when the Roman army desolated Jerusalem and burned its temple in 70 C.E. All public records, all archives, were wiped out. No one since then can possibly trace his own ancestry back to David. Since God’s purpose cannot fail, this means that Jesus Christ is undeniably the Messiah, the King chosen by God.

How do we know that the record of Jesus’ line of descent is accurate? Because those records that appear in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38 agreed with (and were likely taken from) the official public registers of that day, which were open to all to examine. This explains why the learned men of the Jews, the scribes and Pharisees and the Sadducees, who bitterly opposed Jesus, never uttered one breath of challenge of this genealogy. It is of interest, too, that no Gentile enemy of Christianity, among which were astute men, made any criticism of Jesus’ genealogy until after 70 C.E. Of course, they could make lying assertions then because no one could check the public registers for himself to detect their false claims.

ASSOCIATE RULERS

There is therefore no reason to question that Jesus Christ is the One designated by God to rule this earth as King for a thousand years. We have to accept this if we profess to believe the Bible. And his life course proves he will be a Ruler, not seeking his own interests, but looking after the people’s interests in harmony with the will of God. But what about his associate rulers, his entire governmental organization? For the Bible does speak of kingly associates of Christ “bought from among mankind.” It numbers them as 144,000, who “will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years.”—Rev. 14:1, 4; 20:6.

These kings will not be successors of Jesus Christ, either in priesthood or in kingship. He is the King. The 144,000 are associate kings under his direction. Christ is immortal; he lives forever. (1 Tim. 6:16; Heb. 7:24) There is certainly nothing to fear from the rulership of Jesus Christ, who gave his life in behalf of mankind. And likewise there is nothing about which to be uneasy as to the rulership of the 144,000 who were once ordinary men and women. God himself long ago arranged for this government because of his own love for mankind. How do we know?

Well, the apostle Paul wrote to fellow Kingdom heirs: “Now we know that God makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God, those who are the ones called according to his purpose; because those whom he gave his first recognition he also foreordained to be patterned after the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Moreover, those whom he foreordained are the ones he also called; and those whom he called are the ones he also declared to be righteous.”—Rom. 8:28-30.

When man rebelled against God in the Garden of Eden, God was concerned about the government for a new system of things over mankind. Therefore he gave “first recognition” to this governmental class and expressed it when he pronounced sentence against “the original serpent,” Satan the Devil, saying: “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; Rev. 12:9.

Jesus Christ is the principal one mentioned in this prophecy, but his 144,000 associates are also associated with him in the bruising of the Serpent’s head, as the apostle Paul indicated when he wrote to fellow Christians: “The God who gives peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.”—Rom. 16:20.

ARE THE ASSOCIATE RULERS TRUSTWORTHY?

As to being able to trust the associate rulers of Christ, note this comforting statement: “Those whom he gave his first recognition he also foreordained to be patterned after the image of his Son.” (Rom. 8:29) This assures that they will be righteous, trustworthy rulers, even as the Son is. While on earth they make over their personalities by the help of God’s holy spirit. (Eph. 4:22-24) As brothers of Christ, they are not divided among themselves when on earth, and when he resurrects them to the heavens Jehovah will make them righteous as perfect spirit persons in harmony with their righteous personality.—1 Cor. 1:10.

Jesus revealed the principle by which his associate rulers will operate when he corrected a wrong spirit in his apostles, saying: “The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those having authority over them are called Benefactors. You, though, are not to be that way. But let him that is the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the one acting as chief as the one ministering. For which one is greater, the one reclining at the table or the one ministering? Is it not the one reclining at the table? But I am in your midst as the one ministering.”—Luke 22:24-27.

These associates, while on earth, have received their training for rulership by serving as ambassadors for God’s kingdom to the people. They follow their Leader, Christ, who served as direct Ambassador from God to the people. He came to earth, not with a political mission, but to do what no political ruler can do or has done, namely, to reconcile people of all nations to God, to bring them back into peaceful, friendly relations with the great Life-Giver, Jehovah.—Rom. 5:8-11.

Doing the same work as Christ did, these associate rulers can say: “We are therefore ambassadors substituting for Christ, as though God were making entreaty through us. As substitutes for Christ we beg: ‘Become reconciled to God.’”—2 Cor. 5:20.

A NONPOLITICAL WORK TODAY

As such ambassadors they do not go to the political nations, trying to bring about the reconciliation of a whole nation at once, neither do they meddle in political affairs. Rather, they go directly to the people—to individuals. But they do not try to turn individuals toward any earthly ruler, or seek to win them over to any political ideology. They confess: “Our citizenship exists in the heavens, from which place also we are eagerly waiting for a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Phil. 3:20) They appeal to people to look to the kingdom of God for relief. Accordingly, if they should get involved in the affairs of this world, taking part in political activities, holding office or voting, they would lose their status as ambassadors and brothers of Christ, and would never attain to heavenly rulership with him.

Today we see nationalism growing in all countries. More and more is pressure exerted upon people to render worship to the “wild beast,” this world’s human political organization under the influence and control of Satan the Devil. (Rev. 13:1, 2, 11, 12) But the Kingdom ambassadors and prospective rulers with Christ do not worship this “wild beast,” knowing that it will soon be destroyed, cleared out of the way, so that the Kingdom can have full sway over earth for a thousand years. (Rev. 19:19-21; Dan. 2:44) Still, they respect the governments of earth as long as God allows these governments to remain. This is because they respect the responsible positions the rulers hold and the power and opportunity they have to do good toward their subjects.

These “ambassadors” therefore follow God’s command at Romans 13:1-7 to show “subjection to the superior authorities” of this world, paying their taxes and obeying the laws of the nations. Only when the rulers go so far as to make or execute laws that clash with the laws and rulings of the Most High God do these Christians refuse obedience. This they do on the principle and after the pattern set by the apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ when before the Supreme Court in Jerusalem. When told to stop preaching the good news of the Kingdom, thereby forsaking their God-ordained ambassadorship, they replied: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.”—Acts 5:29.

The 144,000 faithful ones will therefore carry none of the political uncleanness of this self-seeking world into the heavenly kingdom of the Christ. They have undergone severe trials and testings on earth and have stood firm for God’s sovereignty and for his kingdom, preaching its coming blessings to the people. Of them, it is stated: “These are the ones that did not defile themselves with women; in fact, they are virgins.” (Rev. 14:4) Yes, they are faithful to Christ, not adulteresses, as some were warned by the disciple James: “Adulteresses, do you not know that the friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever, therefore, wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God.”—Jas. 4:4.

Also of these associate rulers, it is stated: “No falsehood was found in their mouths; they are without blemish.” (Rev. 14:5) Today falsehood is almost considered “stock in trade” for political rulers. This has brought about much corruption and has ruined their credibility among the people. But Christ’s associate rulers cannot follow this pattern and be approved by Christ. They are proved truthtellers. All these statements about them, inspired by God himself, give absolute assurance that they are not interested in their own aggrandizement and glory (in fact, as heavenly rulers they could desire no material thing from their subjects), but are concerned with the people’s interests and everlasting welfare.

Individuals who want life as subjects of that righteous kingdom, on hearing what these “ambassadors” of God say, must do more than give mere mental assent, merely waiting for the Kingdom to crush this world’s system of things. Action motivated by the heart is required. All who believe that God will provide mankind with rulers for the people’s interests must support the work of these “ambassadors” by sharing with others the good news of the Kingdom. It is a lifesaving activity that no sincere believer in God can shun.

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THE HEAVENLY GOVERNMENT

JESUS CHRIST King over all the earth for a thousand years. He proved his love for mankind by laying down his life for them.

144,000 ASSOCIATE RULERS Their integrity to God is fully tested on earth. In heaven, God patterns them after the image of his own Son.

EARTHLY SUBJECTS

Christian Maturity—Necessary for Life

“Stay awake, stand firm in the faith, carry on as men, grow mighty.”—1 Cor. 16:13.

1. How is growth related to life?

GROWING up is natural for all earthly forms of life that are made up of more than one cell. Insects, birds, fishes, amphibians and mammals have their own small beginnings, and then, in their divinely appointed way, grow until they reach maturity, to fulfill the purpose for which their Creator, in his infinite wisdom, gave them existence. Humans, too, are not born full-grown, either physically or mentally. And we expect children to grow up, to reach the physical, mental and emotional stature of responsible adults. Clearly, life in God’s arrangement of things involves growth.

2. What is the right view about gaining spiritual maturity, and why?

2 There is also a growth for Christians from spiritual childhood into spiritual adulthood, Christian maturity. This spiritual maturity is not an unattainable, elusive goal, nor something to be reached only by a select few. Just as physical maturity is anticipated as a natural attainment for living creatures, so spiritual maturity should be anticipated and sought after by every Christian “babe.” It is within the reach of all who put forth the needed effort. One’s place of residence, experience, abilities or educational background are not the determining factors. The apostle Paul exhorted Christians who had not yet become spiritual adults to “press on to maturity.” (Heb. 6:1) In order to do so they first had to recognize their true spiritual condition and then work to make progress.

IDENTIFYING SPIRITUAL IMMATURITY

3. Describe an immature, “fleshly” Christian.

3 According to the Bible, an immature Christian is “fleshly,” that is, he usually acts according to principles followed by men alienated from God and Christ. Back in the first century there were such immature Christians in the congregation at Corinth. Paul was unable to speak to them “as to spiritual men,” but had to speak to them “as to fleshly men, as to babes in Christ.” He fed them only “milk” of Christian truth, for they were not “strong enough.” Because of their being “fleshly,” jealousy, strife and sectarianism existed among them.—1 Cor. 3:1-4.

4. What questions might we ask about ourselves to determine whether we are “fleshly” or not?

4 Are any of us like that—unstable, still inclined to follow men? Are some “fleshly” or worldly in their thinking, usually critical of their brothers and the work they are doing rather than working harmoniously with them under the headship of Christ? Are there some who have not as yet developed the love that motivates one to expend oneself for the upbuilding of the Christian congregation? Then they do indeed need to strive to attain Christian maturity.

5. Why did the apostle Paul urge certain Christians to “press on to maturity”?

5 Also in the first century, some Christians had failed to progress beyond the “elementary things of the sacred pronouncements of God.” This was despite the fact that adequate time had passed for them to have grown sufficiently, not only to have acquired a solid and mature faith, but also to have gained the qualifications to teach others in a general way. Note the apostle Paul’s strong words to them: “Although you ought to be teachers in view of the time, you again need someone to teach you from the beginning the elementary things of the sacred pronouncements of God; and you have become such as need milk, not solid food. For everyone that partakes of milk is unacquainted with the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong. For this reason, now that we have left the primary doctrine about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying a foundation again.”—Heb. 5:12–6:1.

6. How might some today be in need of similar admonition?

6 Are there any among us who have been associated with the Christian congregation for years and yet are not able to teach others the basic doctrines of the Bible? After years of association with God’s people, do some still have difficulty in letting their conscience distinguish right from wrong? Do they still want others to make decisions for them in matters of conscience? Any who find themselves still needing instruction in the basics of Christian teaching and living should certainly be working hard to acquire maturity. Christians should not be like builders who never get beyond the foundation of the building, the “foundation” in this case being elementary or primary doctrines about Christ. They should press on to complete the building or the superstructure that rests upon that foundation, namely, the more advanced teaching about God’s purpose as revealed through his Son.

7. Why is the immature Christian who fails to exert himself to grow up spiritually in a dangerous position?

7 The immature Christian who fails to exert himself to become firm in faith, progressing no farther than the elementary things of God’s Word, stands in grave danger. He does not really have the strength to resist the pressure of error and false worldly reasoning and therefore may be “tossed about as by waves” and carried to a disastrous end. (Eph. 4:14; Heb. 6:4-8) Those who remain “fleshly,” harboring jealousies, envies and enmities, are likewise in a dangerous position before Jehovah God. Such traits are among the works of the sinful flesh that can keep one from gaining life. As the apostle Paul put it: “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, and they are fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct, idolatry, practice of spiritism, enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, contentions, divisions, sects, envies, drunken bouts, revelries, and things like these. As to these things I am forewarning you, the same way as I did forewarn you, that those who practice such things will not inherit God’s kingdom.”—Gal. 5:19-21.

ATTAINING SPIRITUAL MATURITY

8. How does the attaining of spiritual maturity differ from gaining physical maturity?

8 But how can one cease to be a “fleshly” man and attain spiritual maturity? Unlike physical maturity, which is automatic, spiritual adulthood is attained through sincere effort. It requires humility and a genuine desire to conform one’s life to the pattern outlined for Christians in God’s Word. It involves study and meditation to acquire a deep understanding of God’s will and purpose, learning to rely on him instead of on human reasoning. Have you thus applied yourself with a view to spiritual growth? Are you acting in accord with the Scriptural counsel to “stay awake, stand firm in the faith, carry on as men, grow mighty”?—1 Cor. 16:13; Heb. 5:14.

9. What effect does study and application of God’s Word have on the Christian “babe”?

9 As the Christian “babe” continues studying the Scriptures and applies what he learns, his advancement in appreciation of God’s truth and more difficult doctrines is accompanied by a corresponding growth in his spiritual outlook and Christian personality. Changes take place in his thinking, in his viewpoint, and in his life. He finds that his interests and motivations are becoming related to spiritual matters, for God’s truth is having a profound and beneficial effect on his life. He is following the exhortation from God’s Word to “quit being fashioned after this system of things, but be transformed by making your mind over, that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”—Rom. 12:2.

10. What changes take place as the maturing Christian ‘makes his mind over’?

10 This ‘making over of the mind’ has a profound effect on the personality of the maturing Christian. The worldly outlook, with its reasonings, its emphasis on material things and worldly pleasures, is progressively replaced with an interest in spiritual matters and in doing the will of Jehovah God. In place of the works of the flesh, the fruitage of God’s spirit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness and self-control—becomes more and more apparent. A new force or dominant spirit is at work within him. He is heeding the Bible’s counsel: “Put away the old personality which conforms to your former course of conduct and which is being corrupted according to his deceptive desires; but . . . you should be made new in the force actuating your mind, and should put on the new personality which was created according to God’s will in true righteousness and loyalty.”—Eph. 4:22-24; Gal. 5:19-23.

11. What is the “force” actuating the mind of a mature Christian, and how does it cause him to react to situations calling for moral decisions?

11 When the old personality is put away and a new force or dominant spirit is actuating the mind, the Christian has attained maturity. Formerly the force actuating his mind was the one that had resulted from the things taught and experienced in the world. These things fed into the mind developed in him certain patterns of thinking and heart motivation. Thus, when he heard a matter requiring a moral decision, this force within his mind directed him in a worldly direction. But, as a mature Christian, he has a new force or spirit impelling him to act. As a result of his regular, prayerful study of God’s Word of truth and the operation of God’s spirit, this actuating force inclines him in a righteous direction. Hence, when a matter is presented to him involving a moral decision, his mind is bent by this new “force” or dominant attitude toward a righteous, spiritual course. He thus preserves a fine relationship with Jehovah God and can rest assured of gaining the reward of everlasting life.

12. What is the role of elders in helping members of the congregation to attain maturity?

12 One of the primary aims of the Christian congregation, with its “gifts in men,” elders serving as shepherds and teachers, is to help all to attain this maturity, to be firmly rooted in Christian truth and to live in harmony therewith. In this regard, note the apostle Paul’s words at Ephesians 4:11-15: “He [Jesus Christ, the head of the Christian congregation] gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers, with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, for ministerial work, for the building up of the body of the Christ, until we all attain to the oneness in the faith and in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to a full-grown man, to the measure of stature that belongs to the fullness of the Christ; in order that we should no longer be babes, tossed about as by waves and carried hither and thither by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of cunning in contriving error. But speaking the truth, let us by love grow up in all things into him who is the head, Christ.” So, in addition to personal study and application of God’s Word, response to the Bible-based teaching of Christian elders can be a real aid in making progress to maturity.

DANGERS TO MATURE AND MATURING CHRISTIANS

13. (a) Is it possible for a mature Christian to become immature? (b) What can happen to a mature Christian if he does not watch his conduct?

13 Once having attained maturity, Christians have to be careful that they do not go bad or become delinquent. Just as a man cannot become a child by acting in a childish way, the mature Christian does not become immature through wrong actions. But he can become corrupt and lose his approved standing with God. All Christians, therefore, need to take to heart the inspired words: “Let him that thinks he is standing beware that he does not fall.”—1 Cor. 10:12.

14. In what sense should Christians be as babes and at the same time as adults?

14 We must be on guard against letting the world influence our thinking, beclouding it and causing us to act foolishly. The Bible exhorts us: “Do not become young children in powers of understanding, but be babes as to badness; yet become full-grown in powers of understanding.” (1 Cor. 14:20) Certainly Christians do not need experience in badness and wrongdoing, nor should they want or seek such. When it comes to dishonest dealings with others, playing the role of a hypocrite, or pursuing sexually immoral or perverted associations, Christians ought to be as babes, innocent and inexperienced. Yet in distinguishing right from wrong, they should be as adults that are firm for what is right and not easily swayed by smooth talk.

15. What forms can “bad associations” take, and why can even the mature Christian be corrupted by them?

15 Unclean and immoral worldly thinking can ruin even the mature Christian. No one is immune to temptation. All must fight the sinful tendencies of the flesh and avoid things that whip up fleshly desires. It is wise, therefore, to heed the counsel from God’s Word: “Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.” (1 Cor. 15:33) That means avoiding the company of those without faith, persons of evil or perverted inclinations, desires or conduct—fornicators, adulterers, homosexuals, drunkards and sadists. Would it not also include keeping them out of one’s thoughts by not meditating on such types, by not reading about them for sensual pleasure, by not viewing them for entertainment on the television screen or on a motion-picture screen? Likewise, the use of vulgar speech and the telling of obscene jokes and stories, which many worldlings consider “adult” conduct, would be weakening to mature Christians and detrimental to those seeking to attain Christian maturity. Such things should be shunned, as God’s Word counsels: “Let fornication and uncleanness of every sort or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people; neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting, things which are not becoming.”—Eph. 5:3, 4; 4:29-31; Col. 3:5-10.

16. (a) What worldly attitude toward material things must be guarded against? (b) Why is knowledge of the transitoriness of material things not enough to combat greed for money?

16 The world’s insatiable greed for money and material gain is something else that must be resisted. A recognition of the transitoriness of material riches, however, is not enough to combat this greed. Many persons in the world know full well and freely admit that beyond the basic necessities of life money cannot buy the really important things—joy, good health, human understanding. Yet they feverishly pursue materialistic goals. Were a Christian to allow this spirit to take hold of him, it would subtly undermine his appreciation for spiritual things. It could even destroy his faith. The Bible says: “The love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains.”—1 Tim. 6:10.

17. What must be done to resist being ruined by undue concern over the anxieties of life or by a desire for riches?

17 To prevent this from happening to us, we must continue to reflect appreciatively on the far greater worth of spiritual riches. We should not let undue concern for the necessities of life rob us of the comforting conviction that Jehovah God cares for his people. Jesus Christ gave this assurance: “Your heavenly Father knows you need all these things [food, clothing and shelter]. Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you. So, never be anxious about the next day, for the next day will have its own anxieties.” (Matt. 6:32-34) Yes, we should be content with the necessities of life. Not perishable material riches, but godly devotion results in lasting gain. Our godly devotion enables us to enjoy spiritual health and contentment and holds forth the promise of everlasting life.—1 Tim. 4:8; 6:6-8.

18. (a) What kind of doubts may arise in the mind of mature and maturing Christians? (b) What effect can such doubts have on the Christian?

18 Doubts, too, can have a damaging effect on mature as well as maturing Christians. Even mature Christians may at times not fully understand a Scriptural point. If they were to allow this to rob them of their peace of mind and contentment, they could easily be distracted from the truly important thing, that is, serving Jehovah God faithfully. Others sometimes come up with personal theories regarding the explanation of certain scriptures. Because the congregation of God’s people today does not acknowledge such explanations as truth, they begin to find fault and to doubt Jehovah’s backing of his people. (Compare John 6:53, 66-69; Luke 12:42-44.) Still others get overly concerned about the attitudes or actions of some fellow believers. They start looking at imperfect humans, judge the whole congregation on that basis and soon lose their joy in teaching the truth to others. They begin to doubt that those with whom they enjoyed pleasant spiritual fellowship are really God’s devoted people.—Compare Colossians 3:13, 14.

19. What can be done if one begins to have doubts about the Christian congregation?

19 Should doubts of this nature arise in your mind, what can you do? Humbly appeal to Jehovah God for wisdom. You can rest assured that he will give you the needed wisdom to cope with any trialsome situation. As the disciple James wrote: “If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him.” (Jas. 1:5) Also, avail yourself of the help that elders in the congregation of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses can give. By talking to someone having a good understanding of God’s Word, you will often find that his objective comments will aid you to clear away doubts and to find again real joy in your service to God.

20. What should mature and maturing Christians do because of having everlasting life in view?

20 So then if any have not as yet reached Christian maturity, let them “press on” to it, guarding against the unwholesome influence of the world. If we are already mature Christians, “let us go on walking orderly in this same routine,” not allowing ourselves to become corrupted. Let us use our maturity to good advantage, ‘carrying on as men, growing mighty,’ aiding others who have yet to reach the goal of Christian maturity, so that together we may all reach our final goal—God’s approval to eternal life.—Phil. 3:12, 14-16; Gal. 6:1, 2; 1 Cor. 16:13, 14.

‘Make Your Advancement Manifest’

1. What do the apostle Paul’s words to Timothy reveal as to whether a spiritually mature Christian can make advancement?

CHRISTIAN maturity does not mean the end of advancement in the case of a devoted servant of Jehovah God. It was to a mature Christian, Timothy, that the apostle Paul wrote: “Continue applying yourself to public reading, to exhortation, to teaching. . . . Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons.”—1 Tim. 4:13-15.

2. How does a man’s normal course of life show that maturity does not end advancement?

2 That maturity does not mean an end to progress is obvious from what we see in the normal course of life. Is not a married man with a family of his own looked upon as mature? Yet, can he not continue to gain greater wisdom as he handles adult responsibilities? Can he not learn from his mistakes and from the successes and failures of others? Surely! He may also look to his father or other older men for counsel and guidance, recognizing their greater experience and wisdom.

3. How can mature Christians continue to advance?

3 So it is with mature Christians. Through study and application of God’s Word, they continue to grow in knowledge, appreciation and discernment. They make improvement in building up a fine spirit among family members and in affecting other people for good. Mature Christians can also learn from one another, for they vary in their manifestations of spiritual qualifications. One may be outstanding in knowledge. Another may be especially notable for his kindness or his patience. Still another may be exceptional in good judgment or discernment as to problems. Another may be unusually generous or hospitable. Still another may have exceptional directive ability.

4. Since mature Christians can continue to make progress, what three areas of advancement would it be good for them to consider?

4 There being room for improvement in various aspects of Christian living, a mature servant of Jehovah God does well to take time to ponder whether he is continuing to make advancement. There are three areas that we might consider: (1) attaining greater knowledge, understanding and wisdom, (2) producing in greater abundance the fruitage of God’s spirit and (3) discharging responsibilities as a family member.

INCREASING KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND WISDOM

5. How might one analyze whether one is increasing in knowledge, understanding and wisdom?

5 Ask yourself: Is my enjoyment of reading and studying the Bible growing as each year passes? Does it steadily become clearer and more meaningful to me? Am I applying the Bible’s admonition better in my life? If you can answer, Yes, to these questions, you are increasing in knowledge, understanding and wisdom. But if you notice little advancement, what should you do?

6. What can we do to make sure that what we read in God’s Word is moving our hearts to respond appreciatively?

6 You would certainly want to apply yourself in filling your mind and heart with the wisdom found in God’s Word. Regardless of the advancement that we may have made, mere reading of the Bible and Bible study aids, even if done regularly, is not in itself enough for us to continue to make progress. The Bible’s counsel must reach the heart, that is, the heart must be moved to respond appreciatively. Only then will we be impelled to act wisely. (Ps. 119:113) Hence, there is a need for thoughtful meditation, to think in terms of what effect the things read and studied should be having on our life, and why. As you read and study, you might ponder questions such as: What does the material help me to see about Jehovah God? Am I striving to conform to his personality, ways or dealings as revealed in the passage of Scripture being read? Does the Biblical material point up any weakness in me? What could I do to work on this weakness?

7. How do Christian meetings incite us “to love and fine works”?

7 Attending and listening attentively at meetings also increase our fund of knowledge, deepen our understanding and move us to act wisely. Christian meetings serve to incite us “to love and fine works.” (Heb. 10:24, 25) The comments and talks given can stir our hearts to continue showing love for God by conforming ever closer to his Word. What we hear can strengthen our resolve to improve in letting self-sacrificing love have its full expression toward fellow believers, family members and others of the world of mankind. Because of what we hear, we may at times see that our works in a particular area are not truly “fine.” (Matt. 5:16; Titus 3:8) This puts us in position to apply what has been called to our attention and to act wisely.

8. How can preparation for meetings help us to make advancement and be a source of encouragement to others?

8 Furthermore, what we do personally in preparation for meetings can help us to make advancement. Scriptural material is impressed more deeply upon our mind and heart as we consider it beforehand and then hear it repeated at the meetings. Advance preparation puts us in a better position to take note of the details and check whether we understood the specifics of the material when we considered it privately. Because of advance preparation, our comments will be more meaningful. We will be better able to use our own words and not just read points from the printed page without really having given heartfelt consideration to their significance. (Prov. 15:28) This can make us a greater source of encouragement to others, as our heartfelt expressions will have greater appeal to those hearing us.

9. Why will appealing to Jehovah for the help of his spirit contribute to our making advancement?

9 Prayer, too, plays a vital role in making advancement. Jesus Christ said: “If you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!” (Luke 11:13) It is by means of this spirit that Jehovah God enables us to understand his Word and apply it correctly. The holy spirit serves as a remembrancer and a teacher. As a remembrancer, it brings back to mind Scriptural principles that we know, and, as a teacher, it helps us to discern their correct application. So when we are faced with problems or have to make weighty decisions, we can appeal to Jehovah God for help. His spirit will then aid us to recall what we need to know and prevent us from going astray by helping us to see the proper course to take in the light of what has been recalled to our mind. This is in keeping with Jesus’ words to his disciples: “The helper, the holy spirit, . . . will teach you all things and bring back to your minds all the things I told you.”—John 14:26.

10. In what way can our prayers for forgiveness of sins aid us in continuing to progress spiritually?

10 Being imperfect, we need to seek God’s forgiveness for our sins. The apostle John counseled fellow believers: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous so as to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) When we are specific in our prayers as to how we transgressed, this impresses upon us the seriousness of what we have done. This can serve to strengthen us in our decision to do better as we seek the help of God’s spirit to make improvement in areas wherein we are weak. Thus we are aided to act wisely.

11. What might our prayers reveal about our spiritual advancement and our relationship to Jehovah?

11 The way in which we express ourselves in prayer to Jehovah God can reveal whether we are making advancement in understanding and applying God’s Word in our lives. What of your prayers? Have they become more meaningful? Do they reflect a depth of concern for fellow humans? Are they specific? Do they demonstrate an affectionate relationship with our heavenly Father? Do you find yourself wanting to turn to him in prayer, to voice your appreciation for his loving-kindness? If our relationship to Jehovah is a close one, we will delight to approach him in prayer. His guidance, in answer to our prayers, will be very clear to us. In no way will we feel restrained in prayer to him, fearing that he will not hear us because of our thinking he has some black mark against us. Deep love for Jehovah dispels such fear. That is the point the apostle John made when he wrote: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love throws fear outside, because fear exercises a restraint. Indeed, he that is under fear has not been made perfect in love.”—1 John 4:18.

PRODUCING THE SPIRIT’S FRUITAGE

12. What wholesome effect will yielding to the influence of God’s wisdom and spirit have on us?

12 When we yield ourselves to the influence of God’s wisdom as set forth in his Word and the guidance of his spirit, we will find that our spirit or dominant feeling will compel us to conform ever closer to God’s standard of holiness or purity. We will be moved to want to imitate his fine qualities—his love, justice, wisdom, mercy and loyalty. The good and wholesome effect of the training and discipline received through personal and congregational study of the Bible will be manifest to observers in our attitude, speech and actions. Though the sinful tendencies of our fallen flesh may push us in a wrong direction, our spirit or dominant attitude will cooperate with the leading of God’s spirit and restrain the desires of our flesh. As the apostle Paul observed in his letter to the Galatians: “Keep walking by spirit and you will carry out no fleshly desire at all. For the flesh is against the spirit in its desire, and the spirit against the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, so that the very things that you would like to do you do not do.”—Gal. 5:16, 17.

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The Watchtower, February 15, 1974