The Watchtower, April 1, 1974

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The Watchtower — April 1, 1974

Source: jw.org

Contents

Modern Food Shortage—Does It Fulfill Bible Prophecy?

Insight on the News

A Night of Remembrance

Does Fear of Neighbor Control Your Life?

Do You Practice ‘Finders Keepers’?

“Divine Victory” Assemblies Held World Wide Without Disturbance

Are You Truly a Spiritual Person?

Persecuted Christians—“A Theatrical Spectacle to the World”

In What Temple Can God Be Found?

Questions From Readers

Your View of Sex—What Difference Does It Make?

Modern Food Shortage—Does It Fulfill Bible Prophecy?

BIBLE writing was completed almost 1,900 years ago. Could the Bible therefore possibly tell about modern famines? Could it foresee the high prices that you pay at the market as a result of limited food supplies?

‘No—that is impossible!’ respond some persons.

But it is wise to examine the evidence closely before answering. If the Bible correctly predicted the modern food situation, then we could expect the other things it foretells also to come true. This fact makes the matter worthy of our attention.

THE BIBLE PROPHECIES

First of all, just what does the Bible foretell about food shortages? Jesus Christ, before his death, was asked: “What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?” In answer, among other things, Jesus said: “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be food shortages and earthquakes in one place after another.”—Matt. 24:3, 7; Luke 21:11.

That prophecy came true on a small scale between the year 33 C.E. (when Jesus spoke it) and the year 70 C.E., when the city of Jerusalem was destroyed. During that thirty-seven-year period, Biblical and ancient history tells us, famines struck Palestine, Rome and Greece.—Acts 11:28-30.

But Jesus’ words were to have a larger, greater fulfillment when he arrived in kingly power. (Matt. 25:31) The facts show that mankind has witnessed fulfillment of that prophecy since 1914.

But have there not been food shortages many times prior to 1914? Yes. Then in what way are these since 1914 any different from those in the past? There is one really outstanding difference.

Jesus’ prophecy, when taken with Revelation 6:1-8, is predicting worldwide food shortage. Biblical scholar A. B. Bruce explained Jesus’ words that “there will be food shortages . . . in one place after another” literally to mean that there would be shortages “here, there, everywhere.” Who will deny that food shortages have indeed taken place “here, there, everywhere” since 1914? Just consider the recent international food picture.

WORLDWIDE FOOD CONDITIONS

Drought has hit the African continent. A United Nations report says that in the nation of Ethiopia between 50,000 and 100,000 persons, mostly women and children, died between April and August 1973. Some reports show even higher death tolls; 1,000 persons per week are still said to be dying of starvation. Farther west, below the Sahara Desert, millions of persons are in danger of starvation in what has been called ‘the worst drought in Africa’s recorded history.’

Meanwhile, Asia suffers from a sweeping rice shortage. The Asian rice stock per person, according to some estimates, is the lowest in thirty years and prices have skyrocketed 200 to 300 percent.

But many persons, perhaps including you, do not now live in obvious famine conditions. You may still have access to an abundance of food, relatively speaking. Nevertheless, U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization director-general A. H. Boerma says worse conditions are ahead for the whole world. Biologist Paul Ehrlich believes that actual worldwide famine is approaching. When? Back in 1970 he stated: “I think an estimate of 1975 is still as good as we can make, but it could be anywhere from 1972 to 1985, depending primarily on luck. I think the actual date is a quibble.”

The evidence of worldwide shortage is already evident in most “developed” countries. Have not food prices taken a sharp upward rise in recent months in the U.S., western Europe and elsewhere? Why? The food supply is limited. So the greater demand causes prices to go up.

In these countries more persons on fixed incomes are now forced to live with less food. Farmers in some areas keep round-the-clock vigils protecting fields from thefts, which now occur even in daylight. Because of the high cost of meat, cattle rustling and animal poaching have become increasingly common.

Modern food shortage is real; its effects are being felt virtually everywhere. But what is responsible for the shortage?

CAUSES FOR WORLDWIDE FOOD SHORTAGE

Part of the answer to that question is found in the words of Jesus that accompany what he said about food shortage. Luke’s Gospel account shows that Jesus predicted large wars to occur along with food shortages during “the conclusion of the system of things.” (Luke 21:10, 11) Men have seen more war since 1914 than in any comparable period in history. With what result? National economies have been disrupted, farmlands and water supplies ruined. Millions of strong young men who could have been farmers have, instead, died on battlefields. Ghastly famines have accompanied and followed those wars.

Furthermore, there is the matter of rapidly expanding world population. There are now almost four billion persons on earth; every year there are seventy-five million more added.

Earth’s growing population clamors for food. And as nations of the world become more affluent materially, they want what they view as a better diet, including, particularly, meat. The desire for beef is further straining an already strained worldwide farming system. In what way?

In that every pound of beef requires, on an average, about seven pounds of grain for feed. Thus it requires 2,000 pounds of grain every year to feed the average American and Canadian. Over 90 percent of this grain goes to produce meat, dairy products and eggs. On the other hand, persons living in less developed countries eat only about 400 pounds of grain annually, most of it being consumed directly. As the desire for a meatier diet intensifies, so does the need for larger amounts of grain.

Yet to further aggravate the food problem, there are fewer farmers. Big cities, their industries and social life, lure many away from an agricultural way of life. Currently, for instance, only 5 percent of the U.S. labor force is devoted to farming. The number of farmers in western Europe is rapidly declining.

Even in nations considered largely agricultural, the farm no longer attracts. That this is the case is shown in a United Press International report from Guyana saying that the minister of agriculture is again trying to convince the Guyanese people “that farming is a worthy vocation” and that “the psychological blocks against working the land” must be removed.

Thus, fewer farmers must grow even more crops. To try to accomplish this they have developed a reliance on more sophisticated methods and modern technology. But these are not entirely successful. Why?

MODERN TECHNOLOGY’S FAILURE

Well, to produce more crops farmers have become specialists, growing one or two varieties of crops over many acres of land. This can be disastrous. Why? One variety of plant needs only one variety of disease or insect to wipe out the entire crop.

Modern farming methods have also contributed to the food shortage in another way. Modern farms need oil. But currently there is a petroleum shortage. The U.S. food industry, the largest single user of oil in that nation, requires petroleum for its machinery. Further, a large percentage of the huge U.S. crop uses petroleum-base fertilizers. Propane, a petroleum derivative, is needed to dry crops for storage or transport.

How vividly we can see that man’s technology has not been able to surmount the tremendous problems to provide the world enough food to eat. Actually, technology has often been part of the problem. There are, however, causes behind the food problem that are not so apparent. What are these?

OTHER SOURCES OF HUNGER

A major problem is greed. Economic, political and national rivalries have divided men, and, as a consequence, billions of people have suffered. Thus, even if a major problem like the population of the earth were brought under control by men, do you honestly think that hunger would end? Well, consider:

Did the nations with abundant food supplies freely share their food when the population situation was not so critical? No. Have the wealthier nations fully provided for the hungry and poor within their own country? No. Why, then, believe that if man solved the problem of population people would suddenly all have enough to eat? Man’s greed would prevent it.

What we see happening today as respects food shortage does indeed fulfill Bible prophecy. Prophecy also reveals, however, that shortly this worldwide selfish system will be put out of the way for good. God’s Word promises that the earth will thereafter be made a paradise that will yield abundantly to feed all righteous men. You can be alive at the time when, as the Bible says, “Jehovah of armies will certainly make for all the peoples, in this mountain, a banquet of well-oiled dishes, a banquet of wine kept on the dregs, of well-oiled dishes filled with marrow, of wine kept on the dregs, filtered.”—Isa. 25:6.

[Pictures on page 195]

SHORTAGES ARE REFLECTED IN HIGH PRICES AT THE MARKET . . .

. . . AND IN ACTUAL STARVATION FOR MILLIONS

Insight on the News

China and Confucius

● Red China has started a campaign against Confucius. For weeks Chinese newspapers have been filled with harsh attacks against this philosopher of the sixth century B.C.E. “His corpse continues to emit its stench among us today. Its poison is deep and its influence extensive,” a broadcast from Kweichow Province declared. But why this campaign?

Apparently because many of Confucius’ ideals run counter to Chinese Communism. For example, he did not favor unification of China by one administration and one set of laws; Communism does. He accepted ranks in society, like slave, master and emperor; Communism advocates a classless society. Why, then, did Communism tolerate Confucianism for so long?

It seems that its popularity with the Chinese people was a factor. But now some see current attacks as part of China’s continuing campaign against anything religious. Taoism, Buddhism and “Christianity” have been strongly discouraged since 1950. But while Confucianism has been called an ‘ethical system,’ it has definite religious overtones.

Does the Bible have anything to say about this seemingly antireligious attack? It is noteworthy what is said about the “king of the north,” which king history identifies with totalitarian governments. Of him we read: “To the god of his fathers he will give no consideration.” Rather, “to the god of fortresses . . . he will give glory.” (Dan. 11:37, 38) In the light of this Bible prophecy, it will be interesting to observe how far this anti-Confucius campaign is pushed.

Science’s Promises

● Many persons have looked to science to improve the quality of their life. Now increasing numbers of persons feel that the ‘wonderful world of tomorrow’ promised by science is just another test-tube failure. One U.S. writer expresses their view when he says: ‘Spreading and rising human aspirations for a good life are taxing world resources. The great cities are deteriorating into jungles. Fewer and fewer things work well.’

People see houses full of gadgets, but they also see that the air and water are more polluted. They read about promises of peace, but witness billions of tax dollars being spent on new “scientific” weapons for destruction. They hear reports about “miracle grains,” yet thousands starve in Africa, and elsewhere food prices continue to skyrocket. Is it any wonder that science, hailed as a savior a few years back, is now viewed by many with disenchantment?

Why has it turned out this way? Well, scientific accomplishments obviously require a certain degree of wisdom. Yet the apostle Paul says: “The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.” The current situation shows that such “wisdom” cannot bring a lastingly “good life.” That requires the wisdom spurned by the scientific world, namely, “God’s wisdom.”—1 Cor. 2:6-8; 3:19.

Changing the Confessional

● The Roman Catholic Church is making changes in the confessional. The screen that separates the penitent from a listening priest is scheduled to disappear. New “penance” rites call for a “conference room” conversation between a few or many persons and a priest. Why the changes?

For one thing, the popularity of confession, never great, has been declining for some time. It is hoped that current moves will revive interest in the practice. But why has popularity waned in this fundamental Catholic requirement?

No doubt there are a variety of reasons. But could it be that people’s attitudes toward the priests is a major reason? Priests have been seen sharing in acts of civil disobedience. Their liberal views condoning adultery and homosexuality have been widely publicized. And, as most people know, priests have supported revolutions and wars, commonly blessing the weapons of participants. With a knowledge of such things, could it be that many Catholics are reasoning, Why should I go to such men to get my sins forgiven?

But whatever the reasons for the revision, this change in the confessional is serving further to shatter the confidence of many Catholics in their church. Within just recent memory revered “saints” have been dropped, the Mass has been altered, meat can be eaten on Friday, and now this change. Catholics may well be wondering: What next?

A Night of Remembrance

You Are Invited

Annual Commemoration of the death of Jesus Christ

Sunday, April 7, 1974

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses

OF ALL the things that you could do after sundown on Sunday, April 7, one is of the highest value and importance. What?

It is attendance at the celebration of the memorial of the death of Christ Jesus.

During the nineteen centuries since his death, hundreds of millions have died. But the memory of the vast majority is now gone—lives, deeds, even names, have all been forgotten. In many countries, it is true, a certain few who have died are held as worth remembering on set dates each year, generally men who gained fame through military or political exploits. How is the memorial of Christ Jesus’ death of incomparably greater importance and value? And why remember him on this particular date more so than on other days?

Considering the latter question first, this year April 7 (after sundown) marks the start of the fourteenth day of Nisan on the old Hebrew calendar (a calendar geared to lunar cycles for fixing the course of each month). Nisan 14 marked the annual celebration of the ancient festival of Passover. (Ex. 12:1-3, 6-14) It was on that date, in the year 33 of our Common Era, that Jesus had his last meal with his disciples, later retiring with them to a garden where he was arrested. Before that day ended, he had died on a stake, executed as if he were a condemned criminal.

But remembrance of Jesus’ death means more than just remembering that it happened, that the event took place. Few forget that. Rather, it is a matter of remembering the meaning of his death for each of us, remembering as well the kind of person Christ Jesus was, his qualities and what his example should move us to do in our own lives. To keep our appreciation of these things strong and clear, we need to take the time and act to refresh our remembrance.

Showing some of the benefits of doing this, the apostle Paul writes: “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, as we look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. For the joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Indeed, consider closely the one who has endured such contrary talk by sinners against their own interests, that you may not get tired and give out in your souls.”—Heb. 12:1-3.

It is especially the role he played in God’s purposes that makes Jesus’ death so worthy of special remembrance. That role was not one bringing political or military fame, but one that has to do with one of the greatest needs of all mankind—life itself. Revealing the source of mankind’s problem, the Bible at Romans 5:12 says: “Through one man [Adam] sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned.”

Due to becoming a rebel against God and hence a sinner, our first father, Adam, did not leave us a legacy of life but passed on to us a deadly defect, which has been transmitted from generation to generation down till this day. (Ps. 51:5) Thus, all mankind has sorely needed someone who could wipe out this continuing, poisonous stain of sin; someone who could, in effect, give them a new start—as if the past had been erased and they now had a different first father, a different life source.

Christ Jesus provided this. As he himself said: “The Son of man came, not to be ministered to, but to minister and to give his soul a ransom in exchange for many.” (Matt. 20:28) Since our first father, Adam, lost for us perfect human life, Christ Jesus ransomed what Adam lost, doing so for the human race, thereby opening the way for them to regain perfect life. He did this by paying over his own perfect human life as an exchange of equal value. Yes, “one man died for all,” a fact made possible because he was a perfect man, born on earth by God’s power, his life having been transferred from heaven to the womb of the virgin girl Mary.—2 Cor. 5:14; 1 Tim. 2:5, 6; Luke 1:34, 35.

What did his sacrificial death open up to all mankind? The opportunity of accepting this new life source and benefiting from all that he can give. For God granted his Son the rightful authority to cancel out our debt of sins and give us a paternal inheritance of everlasting life, freedom from slavery to imperfection and death. (Heb. 2:14, 15; Rom. 5:21) Those who exercise heartfelt faith in him can, in effect, transfer to the family of an undying father who can “save completely those who are approaching God through him, because he is always alive to plead for them.”—Heb. 7:25.

THE RIGHT MANNER OF REMEMBRANCE

How can we adequately commemorate the death of Christ Jesus? He himself showed the manner, one of unusual simplicity. The inspired apostle Paul wrote: “For I received from the Lord that which I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which he was going to be handed over took a loaf [of unleavened bread, as used at Passover] and, after giving thanks, he broke it and said: ‘This means my body which is in your behalf. Keep doing this in remembrance of me.’ He did likewise respecting the cup [of wine] also, after he had the evening meal, saying: ‘This cup means the new covenant by virtue of my blood. Keep doing this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’”—1 Cor. 11:23-25.

On April 7, after sundown, in nearly 32,000 congregations around the earth, Jehovah’s witnesses will be ‘doing this in remembrance of him.’ Not that all will partake of the emblems, for the Bible shows that it was those with whom Jesus made a ‘covenant for a kingdom’ that he invited to partake of such emblems. (Luke 22:29) It also shows that only a “remnant” of such anointed Kingdom heirs would be on earth at this time. (Rev. 12:17) Though the observance by Jehovah’s witnesses, like the original one instituted by Jesus, is simple and free from elaborate ceremony or ritual, the enlightening talk that always accompanies it enables all attending to appreciate the richness of meaning involved.

If we recognize Christ Jesus for what the Bible shows him to be, “our only Owner and Lord,” we will certainly want to be among those remembering him in harmony with his instructions. (Jude 4) World wide, Jehovah’s witnesses will unitedly be doing this on April 7 after sundown. They will be happy to have you visit their local Kingdom Hall and share with them in this night of remembrance.

Does Fear of Neighbor Control Your Life?

MOST people, if asked the question, ‘Does fear of neighbor control your life?’ would likely answer, ‘No.’ And in some respects they would be right. Your neighbor does not tell you what to eat, what to wear, what kind of car to drive or, usually, what to believe.

But what about acting on what you believe—living your religion? Ah, there a test presents itself. This is particularly true where the community or neighborhood is dominantly of one religion. If you happen to be timid or fearful of what your neighbors might think or say, it can create a miserable situation for you.

Often in the community it makes no difference if a person changes his religion as long as it is to an “accepted” religion of Christendom, or of the local area. But if it is the religion of Jehovah’s witnesses, then opposition, even a furor, may be aroused.

When a person gets a true knowledge of the Bible’s standards and requirements for life, people see marked changes in his way of life. But do these changes give valid cause for others to oppose? No, for actually the truth causes men to become better husbands, more honest businessmen, more reliable employees. Women become better wives and mothers, better neighbors, happier in their lives. This is because they ‘seek first the Kingdom and God’s righteousness’ and make over their personalities according to the Bible’s high principles.—Matt. 6:33; Rom. 12:2.

There have been thousands of instances where persons straightened up their lives and forsook bad practices such as sexual immorality, drug abuse, stealing and like things, through study of the Bible and association with Jehovah’s witnesses. Yet they have been opposed by their associates and even by their own families. Why? Why, instead, are not such associates glad that the person has made something of himself in the sight of God and men?

WHY SOME OPPOSE

In many cases opposition is due to ignorance on the part of the opposers. They do not themselves study the Bible and therefore do not understand why a person is motivated to change his way of life. They may look on him as forsaking his former friends. Again, some oppose because of misinformation, lies that have been told about Jehovah’s witnesses—that they are fanatics, that all they can talk about is the Bible, that they are subversive, that they hate others, that they do not believe in Christ, and so forth. These misinformed people may be honest in their opposition. The Christian’s firm and steadfast course may help them to see the truth.

The apostle Peter pointed to another reason for opposition from former associates when he said to those who had taken up Christianity: “Because you do not continue running with them in this course to the same low sink of debauchery, they are puzzled and go on speaking abusively of you. But these people will render an account to the one ready to judge those living and those dead.” (1 Pet. 4:4, 5) The truth condemns the wrong course of action of many and they do not like it. But fear of this abusive reaction is certainly no valid reason for a Christian to return to his former degraded level.

Remember, also, that in taking the name of Jehovah upon you, and in telling others about the Kingdom under Jesus Christ, you are supporting a different government for this earth—a heavenly government that will destroy this present wicked system of things. (Acts 17:31; Dan. 2:44) In so doing, you are bound to incur the enmity of this world. Jesus said to his disciples: “You will be objects of hatred by all the nations on account of my name”—not simply the name “Christian,” but Christ’s name as “King of kings,” whose kingdom will rule the earth in righteousness.—Matt. 24:9; Rev. 19:16.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

Perhaps you are now studying the Bible with Jehovah’s witnesses, or you may be a newly baptized person. Does fear of what the community thinks make you wonder if you can continue to serve God? Take confidence. God is just as interested in you as you are in him, yes, more so. He wants you to live, not die. He loves you and values your life highly. (Luke 12:4-7; 21:16-19) “I will by no means leave you nor by any means forsake you,” he has said. (Heb. 13:5) Therefore, he will help you if you loyally rely on him. He has helped other people who stood firm.—2 Pet. 2:7-9.

Also, think: Do my neighbors have the way to eternal life? What can they give me that is sure and lasting? What hope did I have when I associated with them and followed their way of life? Did I learn about God and his provisions from them? Knowing where the truth is to be found, should I not hold fast to it?—John 6:68.

Remember, too, that the purpose of a Christian’s life on earth is to help others. (Phil. 2:4) You may please your opposers by giving in and going back to the old way, but will you be helping them? It might seem to be a victory for them, but would it be in their best interests? Would you be showing love to them? Jesus had great opposition in his own community and even endured sharp remarks from his own unbelieving fleshly half brothers. But he knew that the only way he could help them was to remain true to the course God had set for him.—Mark 6:1-6; John 7:3-5.

What if Jesus had given up and gone the popular way? The whole world would have lost all opportunity for life. But because of love for his neighbors, yes, even for his enemies, Jesus Christ continued to stick to the truth. His faithfulness resulted in great blessing to all mankind.

Also, think what would have happened to Jehovah’s witnesses in Germany had they forsaken their neutral position as to Hitler’s political and military program. They would have been swallowed up by that regime, and thousands of German people now serving God would not have had an opportunity to hear the truth.

Furthermore, people respect courage, but despise the one who fearfully shrinks back. Those few of Jehovah’s witnesses who denied their faith while in the German concentration camps during World War II were held up to ridicule before the entire camp by the Nazi officers, reviled as hypocrites and cowards. Some of them were asked, “Now that you have denied your God Jehovah, what god will you serve?” Some compromisers were sent to the war front, where they were killed. Others, losing God’s protection by shrinking back, were temporarily spared, but were killed by the Russians when they invaded.

If you love your family, you cannot afford to forsake the service of God and association with his people. You have the truth. Your family, perhaps, and your neighbors do not. You have a responsibility to them, as the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: “Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching. Stay by these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”—1 Tim. 4:16.

Moreover, do you love Jehovah God and his Son Jesus Christ? Do you appreciate what they have done for you? If so, you will stick by them. Just as a loving father would say to his son with regard to reproach upon the family name, Jehovah says to you: “Be wise, my son, and make my heart rejoice, that I may make a reply to him that is taunting me.” (Prov. 27:11) One who remains faithful brings honor to God and gets his favor. One who draws back in fear brings great reproach upon Jehovah. The Scriptures say: “‘My righteous one will live by reason of faith,’ and, ‘if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.’ Now we are not the sort that shrink back to destruction, but the sort that have faith to the preserving alive of the soul.”—Heb. 10:38, 39; Luke 9:62.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO OVERCOME FEAR

What can you do if fear of neighbor tends to hold you back? Jesus’ half-brother James, who lived in Jerusalem where the community was bitterly opposed to the teaching of Christ and the apostles, wrote: “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet with various trials, knowing as you do that this tested quality of your faith works out endurance. But let endurance have its work complete, that you may be complete and sound in all respects, not lacking in anything. So, 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. 1:2-5.

James here points out that you may not have the wisdom, in yourself, to face a trial successfully. It may seem that there is no way out. But, if you ask, God is happy to give you the needed wisdom, as well as strength. (Phil. 4:13) And God does not reproach you for being weak or asking for help, but gives generously, wholeheartedly. You should not feel that your personal problem is too little, that he counts you as foolish to present it to him.

One of the most effective ways to overcome fear is to associate with those who are strong, confident. “Two are better than one . . . For if one of them should fall, the other one can raise his partner up.” (Eccl. 4:9, 10) Do not neglect regular, constant association with Jehovah’s witnesses. Even the apostle Paul needed the strength he could gain from fellow Christians.—Col. 4:11; compare Romans 1:11, 12.

If you do these things you can be sure of help. You can be confident you will stand. God will hold you up. He will not leave you “in the lurch.” (2 Cor. 4:8, 9) The ridicule of others does not make God abandon his love and care. The apostle Paul said: “I am convinced that neither death nor life nor angels nor governments nor things now here nor things to come nor powers nor height nor depth nor any other creation will be able to separate us from God’s love that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Rom. 8:38, 39.

“God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out in order for you to be able to endure it.” (1 Cor. 10:13) The way out is not to forsake God, to be a sad failure, losing out on life for yourself and, perhaps, for your family and neighbors. The way out is a way that God provides to keep you from falling prey to fear and loss of faith. It is a way by which you can gain the victory and be happy. “Trembling at men is what lays a snare, but he that is trusting in Jehovah will be protected.” The snare—fear of men—is the thing to be delivered from, letting love for God, not fear of your neighbor, control your life.—Prov. 29:25.

Do You Practice ‘Finders Keepers’?

HOW do you feel when you find something valuable that someone has lost?

Does it arouse in you an immediate feeling of possession, causing you to wave aside thoughts of returning it, with a ‘finders keepers’ philosophy?

Or perhaps you do not take such a callous view. Then, do you begin to rationalize about returning it, with thoughts such as: ‘The person shouldn’t have been so negligent as to lose it, anyway,’ or, ‘I don’t know who the owner is. It’s not my responsibility to find out—besides, it’s too much trouble’?

It is very easy for anyone to think this way. But how does God view this matter of returning lost items?

We can find out by looking into the law he gave through Moses dealing with this very circumstance. It says: “When you see a fellow-countryman’s ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it but take it back to him. If the owner is not a near neighbour and you do not know who he is, take the animal into your own house and keep it with you until he claims it, and then give it back to him. Do the same with his ass or his cloak or anything else that your fellow-countryman has lost, if you find it. You may not ignore it.”—Deut. 22:1-3, The New English Bible.

In the case of lost animals, it would cost the finder something out of his own pocket to feed the animal until its owner appeared, but this was no excuse to keep the animal for oneself or to let it wander as lost, perhaps to be stolen or attacked by dogs or wild animals.

On the other hand, what would take place if the individual who found the item put it with his own possessions and did not return it? If caught and found guilty, he was counted as a thief. The law said: “As regards any case of transgression, concerning a bull, an ass, a sheep, a garment, anything lost of which he may say, ‘This is it!’ the case of them both is to come to the true God. The one whom God will pronounce wicked is to make double compensation to his fellow.”—Ex. 22:9; compare Exodus 22:1, 4.

Such a case would come before the elders of the town, who acted as representatives of God in judging such matters. By investigation they would uncover the facts, then apply the law. Usually, lost articles found in someone else’s possession can be identified by certain markings and peculiarities, and by witnesses who are familiar with the object. In the smaller communities in Israel this would have been especially true.

If a man was found to be holding some object he had found, how could he rightly be accused as a thief? How would the judges know that he was not merely holding it until its owner appeared? By the fact that he had not given proper notice and made sufficient effort to locate the owner. The honest person would have notified the elders of the town as well as others that he had found a certain article and was holding it for the owner. The keeper of the item would then be free from accusation.

Undoubtedly, if proper efforts had been made to find the owner and the finder waited a reasonable length of time, he would have been allowed to sell it or otherwise dispose of it.

BEWARE OF TEMPTATION

A person who would not normally steal can be tempted by finding a lost item. He can become covetous and actually fall into the category of a thief. God views such a person as sinning, not only against the owner of the article, but also against God himself. When an individual’s conscience brings him to the realization of what he has done, he should quickly straighten out matters with the person wronged and pray to God for forgiveness.—Matt. 5:23, 24.

What is the personality trait that motivates a person who finds something and selfishly keeps it without making a discreet but thorough effort to restore it to its owner, or who demands a reward? GREED. And greedy persons will not get everlasting life from God.—1 Cor. 6:10.

MAKE EFFORTS TO FIND THE OWNER

Someone may ask, ‘To what extent should I make efforts to find the owner of a lost item?’ Note the following experience of one of Jehovah’s witnesses that provides a good example:

A man from San Francisco lost a wallet containing $395 as he got out of a taxicab in New York city. One of Jehovah’s witnesses found it. He called a New York hotel where the information in the wallet indicated the man was staying. However, the man had left for London. From reservation papers found, the Witness was able to locate the man in London by long-distance telephone. Following the telephone conversation, in which the man expressed his gratitude, the wallet with its contents minus only postage costs was mailed to the man’s place of business in San Francisco.

Items you might find would rarely be as valuable as this. Nonetheless, the principle stated by Jesus applies: “The person faithful in what is least is faithful also in much, and the person unrighteous in what is least is unrighteous also in much. Therefore, if you have not proved yourselves faithful in connection with the unrighteous riches, who will entrust you with what is true? And if you have not proved yourselves faithful in connection with what is another’s, who will give you what is for yourselves? No house servant can be a slave to two masters; for, either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves to God and to riches.”—Luke 16:10-13.

Though returning a lost item is generally a small matter, it truly involves the questions, Whom or what do I serve as my God? and, Do I do to others as I want them to do to me?—Matt. 7:12.

As to a reward, the honest person does not want that which belongs to another. There is a greater reward in having a good conscience, with happiness. “Happy are those observing justice, doing righteousness all the time.” (Ps. 106:3) Besides, if it is not done in a spirit of self-righteousness, our honesty may recommend to the other person the truth of God’s Word, with its fine principles. It is one of the ways by which we can ‘make the truth manifest,’ thereby “recommending ourselves to every human conscience in the sight of God,” as his ministers.—2 Cor. 4:2.

“Divine Victory” Assemblies Held World Wide Without Disturbance

DURING the northern hemisphere’s summer of 1973 and stretching into the southern hemisphere’s summer in late 1973 and early 1974, Jehovah’s witnesses held their “Divine Victory” assemblies—more than 140 of them. Beginning in North America, they reached across Europe and Asia, to Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America, Hawaii, the Philippines and other islands of the Atlantic and Pacific.

The uncompleted report reveals that 2,594,305 persons showed their interest in the Bible’s answer to the problems of our day by attending. The program, dealing with Bible principles and prophecies, was planned and outlined by the Governing Body of Jehovah’s witnesses, so that all received the same Scriptural information wherever they attended. Members of the Governing Body also served the assemblies in most of the countries.

At the assemblies so far reporting, 81,830 persons were baptized. These had, over a period of months, made an intensive study of the Bible with Jehovah’s witnesses. Their baptism symbolizes their dedication to do God’s will. It involves the application of the Bible’s principles in daily life and also active service as proclaimers of the good news of God’s Messianic kingdom.

The biggest crowd at any single assembly of the worldwide series—107,442 persons—gathered at Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Combined with two other conventions, this brought Nigeria’s total attendance to 214,237. As at the other conventions throughout the world, the number of newly interested persons was especially high. Nigeria’s attendance was more than double the number of active Witnesses in the country. At the three Nigerian assemblies, 7,153 new Witnesses were baptized. Likewise, across the Atlantic in El Salvador, the 3,700 Witnesses in the country were overjoyed to see 10,788 persons at their assembly. But their joy was even greater when 1,046 candidates presented themselves for baptism, equaling 28 percent of the active Witnesses in that land.

GOVERNMENTS RECOGNIZE PEACE-PROMOTING WORK

The attitude of governments and officials in permitting and, in many instances, even cooperating closely with the Witness officials handling the assembly serves as a testimony that Jehovah’s witnesses stand completely free from political affiliations and revolutionary movements. The Witnesses follow Jesus’ description of his disciples: “They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.” (John 17:14; Jas. 4:4) They ‘pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar’ by conforming to tax laws and all other laws not in direct conflict with God’s commands. But they also ‘pay back God’s things to God’ by using their lives to do his will and by looking to his kingdom, not to human governments, to bring peace and happiness to mankind.—Matt. 22:21.

At Nairobi, Kenya, Grant Suiter, a visiting member of the Witnesses’ Governing Body, along with one of the local Witnesses, was interviewed on television. The interview, scheduled for ten minutes, proved so interesting that the interviewer continued it for twenty-eight minutes. He asked the question, ‘Why do some governments ban Jehovah’s witnesses?’ The answer was given that in such cases the officials do not really listen and investigate to see what Jehovah’s witnesses are doing. They hear what the opponents of the Witnesses, especially the clergy, say, and then act on their word. Later, when they have found that the work of the Witnesses is actually in no way political or subversive, some governments have lifted their ban, despite clergy opposition. Many officials have come to appreciate that Jehovah’s witnesses have raised the moral standards of the people and have promoted peace among those studying the Bible with them. (Gal. 5:19-24; Eph. 6:15) Not only this, but, in the developing countries, literacy is much higher among Jehovah’s witnesses because of the program the Witnesses have established to teach people desirous of learning to read and write.

Jehovah’s witnesses also know that “in every nation the man that fears [God] and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:35) That they really practice interracial unity from the heart was evident on Sunday afternoon at the assembly in Johannesburg, South Africa. Visitors were impressed by the enthusiasm displayed by the South African delegates. The reason for their happy attitude was that, for the first time, they were able to meet together without regard to race or color. This was because they were permitted, for this one session, to meet in Rand Stadium, a sports stadium where the government allows mixed crowds to gather. Attendance on this occasion was 33,408.

SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Worthy of remark, too, is the way in which the local Witnesses in every country showed self-sufficiency in handling the organization of the assemblies—rooming, news service and cafeteria departments, as well as the program, with very little or no help from the trained missionaries. This was notable in Kenya, where Jehovah’s witnesses had experienced a ban on their work for a short period. But with the lifting of the ban, the assembly could be an international one, and the local Witnesses took great pleasure in being hosts to visitors from the United States, Canada, Europe and various African nations.

Similarly, in Uruguay, South America, the missionaries stepped aside completely and the Uruguayan Witnesses demonstrated their training and ability by handling all the features of their large assembly of more than 7,000 delegates.

DESIRE TO LEARN AND TO HELP OTHERS OVERCOMES OBSTACLES

Though the same spirit prevailed at all the assemblies, there was great variety in other respects. In Fiji, for example, the convention “hall” was a huge thatched-roof shelter with open sides. Benches were provided for European visitors, but the Fijians, according to custom, sat on bamboo or straw mats. Rooming for the visiting islanders was provided in a large thatched shelter with walls, divided down the middle by a partition, one side for men, the other for women. These accommodations were provided free, for many from the numerous other islands in that area spent their life savings to get to the convention by plane and boat.

In São Paulo, Brazil, the scene of the second largest of the assemblies, a torrential rainstorm drenched everyone throughout Saturday. The entire audience was forced to stand because the seats of the mammoth Pacaembu Stadium, which were actually concrete “steps,” became minor waterfalls. But this inconvenience did not break up the crowd. On Sunday, as rainfall continued, 94,586 persons came to hear the public talk. Government officials congratulated the convention personnel on the work done and on the spirit that prevailed among the conventioners.—Rom. 13:3, 4.

As with the apostle Paul, a good number of Witnesses, some with their families, have left their homelands to serve in countries where the need is greater. At one assembly some of these reported that they had moved to Costa Rica, to the town of Escazú, where there were only eight of Jehovah’s witnesses, with another small isolated group not far away. Working together and encouraging one another, within six months they had a strong, active congregation of fifty Kingdom proclaimers, and at the present time they number eighty.

Large populations often live in isolated, scattered territories. Jehovah’s witnesses have tackled the problem with every means they could devise, not only to reach the people with the good news, but also to stay in the area, study with them and help them to come to an accurate knowledge of God. Conventioners at the Peruvian assembly, in Lima, heard an interesting account of one method used. A group of ten men drove two large house trucks into the remote areas of the Andes mountains. Five men used each truck as a “home base.” They also brought along a Jeep for smaller roads and trails and places difficult of access. In a few months they placed seventy-five thousand books and magazines explaining the Bible. Now they are busy helping these people to study and understand God’s Word.

Jehovah’s witnesses world wide recognize that the accomplishments they have enjoyed are not from their own power or wisdom. They feel as did the apostle Paul, who said: “Not that we of ourselves are adequately qualified to reckon anything as issuing from ourselves, but our being adequately qualified issues from God.” (2 Cor. 3:5, 6) Obstacles and barriers are overcome ‘not by power, but by Jehovah’s spirit.’—Zech. 4:6.

Accordingly, Jehovah’s witnesses give thanks to Jehovah God for allowing them to see the truth that sets men free. It is by his spirit that they have been able to change their way of life. They treasure the ministry that God has given them to help others to learn the truth.

And all of Jehovah’s witnesses world wide join in private and public expression of thanks to Jehovah, through his Son, for the direction of his spirit and for providing his angelic forces in opening the way for them to gather together in so many lands, under such widely varying conditions and governments during this time of unparalleled uncertainty and distress in world affairs.

Looking forward in faith, Jehovah’s witnesses have planned similar—though smaller—assemblies to begin in June 1974, if Jehovah wills. A spiritually upbuilding program is being arranged. In a number of countries many more sites will be used, so that it will be more convenient for all to attend. You will likely have a convention in your own area. Begin planning now to attend. We are sure you will not be disappointed, but will profit much from what you will hear. You will greatly enjoy association with people who have faith in God and his Word and who are applying Bible principles in their lives. We cordially invite you to attend, to “taste and see that Jehovah is good.”—Ps. 34:8.

Are You Truly a Spiritual Person?

“I was not able to speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to fleshly men, as to babes in Christ.”—1 Cor. 3:1.

1, 2. Why are we interested in studying how to become a spiritual person?

THE Holy Bible speaks very favorably of those who are called “spiritual” persons. On the other hand, it does not mention with merit those described as “fleshly.” Obviously, therefore, a God-fearing individual wants to be a spiritual person, does he not?—Rom. 8:5-8; Gal. 5:16-18.

2 However, many persons who should be spiritual are often, in reality, just the contrary. For this reason, the first-century Bible writer Paul, addressing the Christian congregation at Corinth, Greece, said: “I was not able to speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to fleshly men, as to babes in Christ.” (1 Cor. 3:1) Do we, therefore, not want truly to be spiritual men and women?

3. What does being a “fleshly” person mean?

3 To appreciate what it means to be a “spiritual” person, it is helpful to understand the opposite term, “fleshly,” as used by the writer Paul. What does being “fleshly” mean? It means to be dominated by the flesh, that is, to have an earthly, worldly viewpoint. Such thinking is that of imperfect, fallen men; this is what has saturated this whole system. Fleshly men judge “by human standards.”—1 Cor. 9:8.

4. What does it mean to be a “spiritual” person?

4 But, more importantly, what does it mean to be “spiritual men”? It means to think like God, whose thoughts are elevated above those of man. (Isa. 55:8, 9; Rom. 11:33) This thinking ability comes to those who listen to God’s spokesmen, particularly Jesus Christ, ‘the one who has explained Jehovah.’ (John 1:18) In the apostles of Jesus Christ we have an excellent example demonstrating how one can become truly spiritual. Let us briefly trace their spiritual development.

5, 6. (a) How did the apostles become spiritual men? (b) What did Jesus’ training impart to the apostles?

5 To start with, those that God gave to Jesus as apostles were all humble, hardworking and devoted men. These qualities made them receptive to Jesus’ teaching. After their selection some were in virtually constant attendance with him over a period of about two years. They saw his miracles, heard his discourses, drew on his strength, watched his manner of dealing with friend and foe, and observed his stand for right principles. As Peter was to say some years later: “We are witnesses of all the things he did.” (Acts 10:39; Mark 3:14) He taught them, too, that they should willingly express their belief to others.

6 It was this marvelous training that aided the apostles to become spiritual men. It imparted to them “the mind of Christ,” the feelings, temperament and views of Christ, so that they could judge things in his way, which is also Jehovah’s way. Spiritual men see things from “the standpoint of our God.”—1 Cor. 2:16; 1 Pet. 4:6; Jas. 1:27.

YOU TOO CAN BE A SPIRITUAL PERSON

7, 8. (a) To be a spiritual person, what must we develop in ourselves? (b) Is it just one’s mind that must change?

7 For one to be a spiritual person today requires similar training, developing in oneself “the mind of Christ.” This comes by being ‘made new in the force actuating one’s mind.’ (Eph. 4:23, 24) In the daily round of living, the “natural” thing for persons lacking spirituality is to give in to fleshly thinking. The “force” that actuates their minds urges them in a direction that conforms to this old system of things. The “force” or dominant inclination of a Christian’s mind, however, must be made over to be something “new,” so that one thinks in harmony with God’s way, thus becoming a spiritual person.

8 As one’s thinking changes, every aspect of one’s life should also be “made new”; a “new personality” must be developed. Even if one has been a Christian witness of Jehovah for many years this development must continue and take in every area of one’s life. The way a Christian conducts himself at work or at school, his language and his other personal habits, all should reveal spiritual thinking, “the mind of Christ.” But what happens when one allows fleshly thinking to affect one’s life?

9, 10. What may happen, as demonstrated in the Corinthian congregation, when individuals allow themselves to be influenced by fleshly thinking?

9 The Bible gives an example of this that existed in the congregation in Corinth, Greece, in the first century. These Corinthians were already Christians. (1 Cor. 1:2) But many allowed themselves to be overly influenced by the Greek world around them. Exactly how did those men in the congregation become “fleshly”?

10 Certain ones of them who were proud teachers and false apostles brought the world’s standards into the congregation. Disorder, error and vileness were certain to follow, causing many to become like the world, fleshly. That ancient Greek world was certainly not Christlike. Everything about its culture—its art, science, religion, games, philosophy—was earthly, fleshly, man-oriented.

11, 12. Explain how fleshly thinking affected the lives of many members of the Corinthian congregation.

11 For their foolishly trying to insinuate such standards into the congregation, what were the results? Their fleshly viewpoint was reflected by many things they did and believed. It could not be hidden. It was evident in the way they looked at others in the congregation, promoting one above another. This resulted in divisions, a party spirit and subsequent rivalries. (1 Cor. chaps. 1-4; compare James 3:13-18.) Fornication was tolerated. (1 Cor. chap. 5) They took each other to court. (1 Co Chap. 6) Stressing their own rights, they came dangerously close to stumbling others in the matter of idolatry. (1 Co Chaps. 8-10) There was lack of appreciation for proper headship in the congregation as well as self-indulgence regarding the Lord’s Evening Meal. (1 Co Chap. 11) Paul had to tell them that even those members that might “seem to be weaker are necessary” for the congregation.—1 Co Chap. 12, vs. 22.

12 While the secular, worldly-wise, fleshly Greek writers put stress on harsh, so-called “masculine” qualities, such as pride and egotism, God does not. The Corinthians needed to cultivate love, godly love. (1 Co Chap. 13) Even the Corinthian view of Christian doctrine was strongly colored by fleshly thinking. Some, just like the Greeks at Athens, found the teaching of the resurrection hard to accept. Such ‘unreasonable persons’ needed a spiritual mind. (1 Cor. 15:12-57; Acts 17:32) Does this not illustrate that trying to mix worldly thinking with the teachings of Christ produces poor results in every way? We should recognize this truth in our own personal lives. But how can one develop “the mind of Christ” and become a truly spiritual person?

STUDY TO BECOME A SPIRITUAL MAN

13. Why are study and meditation essential to become a spiritual person?

13 A regular study of God’s Word is essential, and along with study meditation is required. Do not mistakenly think of meditation as a passive process. It takes positive, deliberate effort. Daily reading of the Bible itself should be made part of our life, since by such reading we learn of the life of Jesus and of other spiritual men who had God’s approval. But time must be spent considering how this material applies personally, how it sets one apart from the world. In this way there is further introduction of God’s thinking into our mind, letting it bend or urge our own thinking processes in the proper direction. After reading a portion of Scripture, one can ask oneself: “How can I use this to avoid repeating past mistakes? How does it enhance my appreciation of Jehovah’s goodness and swell within me a desire to be like him?”

14. Explain Proverbs 28:14.

14 In this way we see how to imitate God and not the fleshly world. As we endure in the Christian way we come to appreciate the excelling value of God’s thinking, and the study of his Word comes to mean even more to us. We are made more keenly aware of the need for carefully serving him. As Proverbs 28:14 says: “Happy is the man that is feeling dread constantly, but he that is hardening his heart will fall into calamity.” We develop a healthy fear of God and so a conscientious dread of worldly things that God hates. Coming to realize our own inabilities, we rely more on Jehovah. Thoughtful study keeps us alert to problems and coming changes so that when they do arrive they are not a surprise. This kind of study inclines our minds toward that which is spiritual and results in our being “happy.”

15. If we are to be spiritual persons, what tendency in the matter of study must be avoided?

15 Diligent study, however, must be centered on that which is genuinely spiritual. Some persons who profess to be Christians pride themselves on human learning and avidly look to it. Worldliness may creep into their Christian teaching; it did in Corinth. Jesus said to those who tried to put a human interpretation on his words: “It is the spirit that is life-giving; the flesh is of no use at all.” The sum total of human experience and wisdom, all its writings, philosophies and teachings, cannot be relied on for life. They are “of no use at all” as a means to gain eternal life. (John 6:63) So, why spend hours delving into such writings, which give one, at best, not godly, but human, fleshly viewpoints and fashion one like the world? The apostle Paul told Timothy: “All Scripture is inspired of God . . . I solemnly charge you . . . preach the word.”—2 Tim. 3:16–4:2; compare 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, 13.

PRAYER AIDS TOWARD SPIRITUAL MANHOOD

16. Why is prayer so important to one who would be spiritual?

16 Prayer is also an invaluable aid to bring our thoughts toward those of God. The humble person, when talking to Jehovah in prayer, is reminded of how far removed he is from God’s perfection and of his need to wrench his thinking away from the world and to elevate it like Jehovah’s. “Pray incessantly,” therefore, is good advice. (1 Thess. 5:17) That is, besides praying regularly on occasions customarily set aside for it in the congregation or in your family, develop an inclination toward prayer, a readiness throughout each day and night to look constantly for Jehovah’s direction. (Compare Psalm 119:62.) Do you know that what you pray for—or fail to pray for—can show whether you have a fleshly frame of mind? That it does can be illustrated.

17. How and why may a husband’s prayers be affected if he neglects or mistreats his wife?

17 The married apostle Peter says that a man is to ‘assign his wife honor as to a weaker vessel,’ dealing with her according to “knowledge.” Why? In order for his prayers not to be hindered. (1 Pet. 3:7) The Christian who knowingly fails to show his wife consideration or to provide her with needed guidance cannot, with a clean conscience, speak freely to God. Rather, he feels condemned, disapproved, knowing that he is not obeying God’s command. He hesitates to speak openly to God, and in view of his unchristian conduct he cannot expect that God will approve or strengthen him in the selfish course he is pursuing. This could be spiritually disastrous. It could mean failure to receive holy spirit, which is vital to maintain faithfulness. Then, because of his weakened condition, he might commit a serious wrong, requiring congregation action. Yes, his personal life, guided, not by God’s thinking, but by the world’s, has affected his prayer to Jehovah and his standing in the Christian congregation. Awareness of this close interaction between his private life and his relationship to God in prayer prompts the appreciative Christian toward godly thinking and action at all times.—Luke 11:9-13; compare James 1:5-8; 1 John 4:17.

THE CONGREGATION’S ROLE IN MAKING YOU A SPIRITUAL PERSON

18, 19. (a) How can the elders in the congregation assist us in developing “the mind of Christ”? (b) What advantage does the spiritual man have over the fleshly one?

18 To be a spiritual person, and, hence, to stand in contrast with the world, one also needs regular association with the modern-day congregation of Jehovah’s witnesses. The spiritual elders, appointed by God’s theocratic organization, are able to aid one personally. (Eph. 4:11-16) If there is a symptom in your life indicative of wrong thinking, in time it will “surface,” for any wrong has a way of eventually manifesting itself to observers. (Gal. 6:7; 1 Tim. 5:24, 25) The elders in the congregations of Jehovah’s witnesses are discerning men and, with “the mind of Christ,” they often see early warning signs of fleshly thinking in others. They are charged with “carefully watching” so that anyone “not appreciating sacred things [“worldly-minded,” New English Bible]” does not adversely affect the congregation. (Heb. 12:15-17) For one reason or another—wrong associations, secular work or background—you yourself may fail to see things clearly; your thinking may be somewhat fleshly.

19 The apostle Paul said: “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. However, the spiritual man examines indeed all things, but he himself is not examined by any man.” (1 Cor. 2:14, 15) A person who insists on looking at things from a fleshly perspective cannot see the wrongness of his position before God. But the spiritual man, attuned to the thinking of Christ, not only understands God’s revealed purpose by means of His spirit, but also sees the erroneous course of the fleshly man. So, then, we will be helped to avoid fleshly tendencies if we accept the aid of the elders in the Christian congregation.

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The Watchtower, April 1, 1974