The Watchtower, September 1, 1974

Download: PDF — The Watchtower, September 1, 1974

The Watchtower — September 1, 1974

Source: jw.org

Contents

Will It Ever Be Safe to Live Without Locks?

Living amid Turmoil in Ireland

True Christians Cannot Be Cowards

Insight on the News

How Are God and Christ “One”?

Faithfulness—A Way of Life

By Faithfulness Keep Living

Is There a United Body of True Christians?

Annual Meeting, October 1, 1974

Do You Remember?

Are Complicated Math Formulas a Product of Chance?

Will It Ever Be Safe to Live Without Locks?

Will It Ever Be Safe to Live Without Locks?

SOME older people can recall the days when no one locked doors. Today, young folks in some parts of the world find that almost impossible to believe. They have grown up learning that locks are essential to protect property and life.

In New York city many homeowners have four locks on their front doors. In Rome a Guardian reporter relates: “Two or three new locks are installed on front doors. The poor, who never bothered shutting their doors during the day, now realise that the new thieves are not class-conscious.” Yes, these days, more and more people need locks.

As a consequence, the security business is booming. Not just locks, but burglarproof glass windows and electronic alarms are being installed in great numbers. Under the title “The Fortification of Suburbia,” one U.S. magazine recently devoted eleven pages to describing the lengths to which homeowners are going to protect themselves and their possessions.

But even with many locks and other more sophisticated security equipment, few people really feel safe.

ARE YOU SAFE WITH LOCKS?

Locks have only a limited value; thinking people realize that. They know, for one thing, that crime is increasing rapidly in major cities. In 1972 there was ‘one burglary for every forty-five homes’ in the U.S. However, an authority in home security claims: “Eventually, I think, every home in America may be robbed. There’s really no hope to cut the crime rate.” So, the chances of you or your home being a target for crime grow greater every day.

Then, too, people know, as a popular American monthly, Changing Times, says: “No lock will stop a thief determined to get into your home.” Why? Because professional burglars are able to pick just about any lock that stands in their way, and others less skillful often force doors and windows to get into homes. Of course, good locks greatly reduce the possibility that your home will be burglarized.

Some ask, Why not just get away from crime, and go to where locks are not needed? That might sound like a good idea; but where would you suggest going?

True, there are some areas where one is still relatively safe from immediate bodily harm; but each day these places are becoming fewer in number. How about small isolated towns? In Roundup, Montana (population about 2,800), the local sheriff says that there is “no respect for the law whatsoever.” What about those larger cities that were once considered mostly crime free? These, too, are now often known for their danger. In Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Police Chief P. A. Jong refers to the “alarming” increase of crime in his area.

In view of this, what can be done to assure one’s safety? There is a diminishing number of places to which one can flee. Is the use of more locks the only answer?

Before a definite answer is given, stop and consider, What would be necessary to make the world or any part of it crime free?

WHEN LOCKS ARE NOT NEEDED

It would be essential to change people, that is, to alter their personalities. If people were good, locks would not be needed, is that not true? A former New York legislator notes: “Controlling [crime] means changing the minds and hearts of men.” Perhaps that strikes you as a “utopian” solution. Is it?

Several years ago an international organization held a mammoth convention in Munich, Germany. A businessman in the city later remarked that his fellow workers had made an interesting observation about the convention. Ordinarily, when there is a large group of visitors to Munich, there is also a wave of shoplifting. But these businessmen were astonished because, with this meeting, there was no rise in thefts. Who sponsored this convention of honest people? Jehovah’s witnesses.

Similarly, Norman Long tells about the work of Jehovah’s witnesses in Zambia, on the African continent. His book Social Change and the Individual says: “Put bluntly, while non-Witnesses can trust only their kin (and not always them), Witnesses can trust both kin and fellow Witnesses.” They are known for their honesty.

And Dan Grotta reported on a large U.S. Witness gathering for Philadelphia magazine (October 1973). He tells of passing a Lost and Found counter on which were displayed pens and pencils, and, yes, pocketbooks and wallets. Grotta observes: “No one watched very closely because the Witnesses wouldn’t think of taking what wasn’t theirs; there are no more honest people in the world than Jehovah’s Witnesses.”

These examples from Europe, Africa and America, involving people who had come from all kinds of backgrounds, should be sufficient to show that people can change and live honest lives. A world filled with people like them would hardly need locks, would it? But how have the Witnesses been able to make such changes?

Primarily by their faith in an honest, loving God and in his Word, the Bible, the Witnesses have been able to make these changes. They know that God started mankind in paradise with the prospect of eternal life. But man, instigated by the Devil, sinned, and this has brought on the criminal conditions that have characterized human history. Jehovah’s witnesses are sure that God will carry out his original purpose to make all the earth a paradise, because his word has “certain success,” the Bible says at Isaiah 55:10, 11. When will this occur?

The very lawless conditions that prompt people all over the world now to ask, “Will it ever be safe to live without locks?” prove that the time is very near when wickedness will be ended by God. Then God’s new order will follow.​—See Matthew 24, 25; Mark 13 and Luke 21.

These truths are very real to Jehovah’s witnesses. So, they are not overly influenced by wicked men around them. They take to heart the words of the psalm, freely rendered by one modern translator: “Never envy the wicked! . . . Only a little while and the wicked shall disappear . . . But all who humble themselves before the Lord shall be given every blessing, and shall have wonderful peace . . . and live there forever.”​—Ps. 37:1-3, 10, 11, 29, The Living Bible.

Would it not be a pleasure to associate with such honest, peace-loving people? Feel free to contact Jehovah’s witnesses; find out more about the approaching world without locks.

Living amid Turmoil in Ireland

Living amid Turmoil in Ireland

IN THE winter of 1968-1969 the troubles that have persistently afflicted Ireland once again erupted into open conflict. Since then there have been dreadful bloodshed and massive destruction of property. Over a thousand persons have died in bombings, shootings and assassinations. Thousands of others have been mutilated, disfigured and injured. Why?

Basically, it is due to religious/​political differences​—between Protestants and Roman Catholics. On one side are Protestants associated with British rule, and on the other side are Roman Catholics linked with the struggle for Irish independence. Sadly, even after all the lessons of history, many feel that violence is the way to settle differences.

PROTESTANT BACKGROUND

I was born in Belfast in northern Ireland in 1917. One of the major influences in my life was the Orange Order, a society devoted to the cause of Protestantism. It takes its name from the famous victory by King William of Orange over King James II of England at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

The highlight of each year for Orangemen is the massive parade on July 12 to commemorate that victory. Passions are stirred by the multitude of flute and drum bands that give color and excitement to the march. I remember well walking along with my father, who was a leading drummer in one of the bands. It is a real demonstration of Protestant strength and ascendancy in the north of Ireland and, of course, it serves to heighten bitterness between the communities.

CHANGE TO CHRISTIAN NEUTRALITY

The turning point of my attitude came in the mid-1950’s. My mother, once a staunch Protestant, had for many years been loosely associated with Jehovah’s witnesses. However, none of us youngsters, imbued as we were with a spirit of nationalism and Protestant superiority, would pay much attention to what she would tell us.

I became a regular member of the Church of Ireland, the largest Protestant Church in the country. However, Jehovah’s witnesses were very persistent, though kindly. In time they started a Bible study with my wife. Soon afterward my interest was stirred to the point that I began attending their meetings. On account of the fine instruction received, I quickly came to a knowledge of the Bible, and both my wife and I were baptized by Jehovah’s witnesses in 1956. Now, instead of my having the bigoted and hateful attitude that had marked my early years, the truth of the Bible has developed in me an appreciation of true Christian qualities.​—Gal. 5:22, 23.

Jehovah’s witnesses are strictly neutral as regards the factional strife that festers all around them; they refuse to participate in any way in the religious/​political conflicts that rage. So gone are the days when, for instance, I threatened to bury my hammer in the head of a Roman Catholic fellow worker if he opened his mouth again on the subject of religion.

But you may wonder, how can a person who remains neutral cope with the pressures that are inevitably brought to bear on him? How can he maintain Christian neutrality in the face of fanatical religious/​political controversy? How does it affect his life and the life of his family?

A look at some of the experiences that have happened to my family and friends will answer these questions.

MAINTAINING A RIGHT OUTLOOK

I work in one of Belfast’s main hospitals, where I witness firsthand many of the sad victims of dreadful bombings. Such tragedies occur almost daily, particularly in cities like Belfast and Londonderry.

Seeing legless and armless and otherwise mutilated persons regularly carried into the hospital can be a shocking experience. It often produces a terrible bitterness in people, and it is only by keeping firmly fixed in mind God’s promise of a righteous new order that one can maintain a right outlook.​—2 Pet. 3:13.

The threat to life and property is ever present. For example, one of my Christian associates was caretaker of a large block of offices that had become the target of terrorist bombers. He and his family just managed to get clear of the building before a two-hundred-pound bomb exploded, wrecking the building and destroying all their possessions.

But a person cannot permit such things to disturb him. After a bullet had shattered her bedroom window, a friend in our Christian congregation said that her reaction was: “I’m putting my bed in the other room. I’m losing no sleep tonight!” On one occasion my brother found himself in the middle of a gun battle between the security forces and the terrorists. At another time they stole his car.

One day a fifty-pound bomb went off in the building directly opposite our home, not more than twenty-five feet away. It caused great damage to many homes in the area.

At the time, we were preparing to leave for one of our Christian assemblies. But we refused to allow this incident to interfere. After making temporary repairs, we went off to the assembly, leaving our troubles behind. The strength and hope that our Creator, Jehovah God, gives help us to ride out these storms.

ATTENDING CONGREGATION MEETINGS

Part of our worship is to attend Christian meetings regularly. But simply traveling to them can be a nerve-racking experience. There is an ever-present danger of car bombs. Vehicles are packed with explosives and then parked, ready to explode, at some point designed to cause havoc. Once a car blew up without warning less than fifty feet from our car. It is terrifying to see the flash of the exploding bomb, with people being flung to the ground among the flying debris!

Sometimes we make long detours around danger areas and known trouble spots. We have to be prepared for long delays as traffic is rerouted away from a suspect vehicle. Also, security forces sometimes check vehicles thoroughly in their search for explosives. We have to anticipate these things and leave for meetings early enough to make sure of getting there on time.

Travelers are often wise to lock themselves inside their cars to prevent the doors from being forced open by would-be hijackers. One family, on their way to a congregation meeting, were stopped in a line of cars at a traffic light. They were horrified to see terrorists moving speedily from one car to the next trying to commandeer vehicles. One of the locks on their vehicle was broken! Fortunately, as the terrorists approached, the traffic light changed and they moved on. Needless to say, the door lock was speedily repaired.

Such conditions have caused much inconvenience, but all our congregation meetings in the Belfast area have gone on as usual. No one has suffered injury while in attendance.

VIGILANTES

One development that has caused us considerable difficulty in sticking to a course of neutrality is the emergence of vigilante movements, particularly in Belfast and Londonderry. These groups are formed where Roman Catholic and Protestant communities are closely adjacent. These are flash points of potential trouble. The residents in such areas organize themselves for protection from incursions by extremists bent on murder and destruction of property.

Great pressure is often brought on Jehovah’s witnesses by well-meaning neighbors to participate in protecting the area. For instance, one of my Christian brothers had recently moved to a street when the neighbors decided to organize themselves into a vigilante group. All the residents were called to a special meeting. Needless to say, the family of Witnesses, the only ones in the street not participating in the meeting, felt somewhat apprehensive. Already a number of Roman Catholic families on the street had been forced to leave when their homes were stoned.

After the special meeting broke up, there came a knock on the front door. Two women were collecting food and other supplies for the vigilantes. The family explained their position of neutrality as Jehovah’s witnesses, and the women left without any trouble.​—John 17:15, 16.

However, the vigilante fervor spread and requests for material assistance multiplied. Money was requested for warm clothing for those standing guard during cold winter nights. Also, there was a collection of money for a fund to get the wives and children out of the area if trouble escalated. Each time that requests were made, the Christian position of Jehovah’s witnesses was explained.

As tensions grew, and destruction of homes and other property knew no bounds, pressure to conform and take sides also grew. One has to see the staggering amount of devastation that has wrecked large areas of Belfast to appreciate fully the criticalness of the situation, and the desperation of the population to protect themselves. The Witness on this street explains:

“The vigilantes became more and more impatient with our position of neutrality. Everyone, they explained, was playing a part in the protection of the area while I slept soundly in my warm bed, sheltered under their safekeeping.

“All I would have to do, I was told, was to walk around the block for a few hours each night and report anything suspicious. They tried to make out that I could not be Christian, because the local minister was taking his turn. Although feelings against my position were running very high, I explained again why my conscience would not permit me to share in such activity.

“As I referred to the Bible principles involved, they began to leave one at a time. However, they warned that if my house was burning as a result of terrorist activity, they would not help me.

“I was able to explain to the one remaining vigilante that the early Christians took no part in the conflict at the time of the destruction of Jerusalem in the first century. They fought for neither the imperial Roman armies nor the nationalistic Jewish forces, but stayed absolutely neutral, even though it brought upon them condemnation from their neighbors. I pointed out that it was not that first-century Christians did not care for their fellow countrymen​—Jesus wept at the prospect of what would happen to Jerusalem—​but their allegiance was to God’s kingdom, and they refused to be drawn into the world’s political struggles.

“After a discussion of these and other points, the one who remained said that he now understood our position. We have not been disturbed since.”​—John 18:36.

This highlights the strong pressures that must be resisted if a true Christian is to avoid letting this system squeeze him into its mold.

BARRICADES

From time to time local people take the law into their own hands and seal off the areas where they live. Barricades are erected for protection, and passage is denied to persons who are considered undesirables.

On one occasion there had been a lot of shootings and killings in the area where my son-in-law and his family live. Feelings of hatred prevailed, and virulent anger and rage mounted. Up went the barricades.

One of these barricades completely blocked the side entrance of my son-in-law’s home. Moving it a few feet would have saved him a great deal of inconvenience. So he decided to try to get the barricade builders to move it. However, they were in no mood for reasonable discussion. One of them angrily pointed out that my son-in-law had no right to complain since he was not sharing in the defense of the area.

In the face of their hostility, he decided it was not worth arguing over the matter. He put up with the inconvenience.

FAMILY DISCUSSIONS

One thing that has helped our family to maintain proper Christian conduct and avoid unnecessary trouble is regular family discussions. We talk about what action we should properly take to meet the various circumstances that arise during the present turbulent conditions. Having clear in mind beforehand what would be a wise and Scripturally approved course of action has certainly been a help.

Repetition of these matters is vital, since doing the right thing can be lifesaving. For example, some of the things we review from time to time include: Be sure to get away from any trouble spot immediately when violence flares, and do not wait around to see what happens. Also, during trouble stay indoors and away from windows. Ricocheting bullets and flying glass are no respecters of persons!

HOUSE-TO-HOUSE PREACHING

Featured prominently, too, in our discussions has been how best to carry on our activity of calling from house to house to help persons to come to an accurate knowledge of God’s purposes. Great tact and discretion are needed in doing this preaching work in the midst of the present turmoil.

People are naturally very suspicious and fearful of strangers. There have been many occasions when a knock at the door in Belfast has heralded a murder gang. Persons have been shot dead on their own doorsteps!

It is a fact to consider that in some areas of Belfast not even the security forces have free or safe access. In some instances undercover agents have posed as door-to-door callers; hence, there is suspicion of anyone who is not well known in a neighborhood.

In some instances Jehovah’s witnesses have been forced by threats from extremists to leave certain areas, including both Roman Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. We have not stopped to argue, but have quickly left rather than waiting for violence to erupt. At times we have avoided certain localities altogether, but later we begin to call on people in these areas once again. However, we must exercise great caution while doing so.

It is important that we use practical wisdom. Thus, while troubles were at their height, we drastically reduced much of our evening preaching activity. Also, we have found it good to carry some means of positive identification. Not only is this useful when security forces check us, but it also helps to allay the fears of some householders.

There is difficulty here among many people in appreciating the fact that a person can be a Christian, a believer in the Bible, without being either Roman Catholic or Protestant. But many more people are beginning to realize that Jehovah’s witnesses are different, that we are neutral, and are really separate from anything political, Roman Catholic or Protestant.

EFFECTS OF BIBLE TRUTH

I particularly enjoy working in the public preaching work among my Roman Catholic neighbors. At present I am sharing in a regular home Bible discussion with a young Roman Catholic couple who are appreciating the marvelous truths of the Bible and its promise of genuine peace and security. After a year of happy association it is exciting to see how Bible truth can break down the barriers that have held people apart for centuries and caused so much turmoil.

Now I am looking forward to our next Christian assembly when the first member of this formerly Catholic family plans to symbolize by water baptism his dedication to do Jehovah’s will. One of my associates remarked on how grand it is to see the close friendship we have between us, one formerly a fervent Roman Catholic and the other formerly a bigoted Protestant.

While the worst of the troubles periodically subside, the turmoil is still here. There is a very tense situation, simmering like a volcano, and it can produce great mental and emotional pressures. I thank God that, although my family and I are living amid the turmoil here in Northern Ireland, we are no part of it.​—Contributed.

[Blurb on page 518]

‘With proper instruction from the Bible the bigoted attitude of my early years gave way to an appreciation of true Christian qualities.’

[Blurb on page 519]

‘Great pressure to support the vigilantes is often brought on Jehovah’s witnesses by well-meaning neighbors.’

[Blurb on page 520]

‘The allegiance of early Christians was to God’s kingdom, and they refused to be drawn into the world’s political struggles.’

[Blurb on page 521]

‘People are beginning to realize that Jehovah’s witnesses are different, that we are really separate from anything political, Roman Catholic or Protestant.’

True Christians Cannot Be Cowards

True Christians Cannot Be Cowards

IT TAKES courage to be a true Christian, as one must be willing to face dangers, difficulty, opposition and, yes, even death itself. Genuine disciples of Jesus Christ cannot expect to receive better treatment than did their Lord. As Jesus himself said: “A slave is not greater than his master. If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also.”​—John 15:20.

Though Jesus was persecuted, there was no just cause for it. He showed an active concern for the welfare of others. He was compassionate, kind and loving. (Matt. 8:2, 3; 11:28-30; Mark 8:2) Tirelessly he labored, often forgoing food and needed rest, to relieve imperfect humans of their ailments and to give them spiritual comfort and encouragement. (Matt. 14:13, 14; Mark 6:31-34) Though abused, he never reviled anyone. His life record was flawless, free from sin.​—1 Pet. 2:22, 23.

Still Jesus Christ became an object of intense hostility. He was maliciously accused of being a drunkard and a glutton, a violator of God’s law and even demon-possessed. (Luke 7:34; John 5:18; 8:48) He suffered great indignities, being spit on, slapped, hit with fists, scourged and finally nailed to a stake to die in public disgrace as if he were a blasphemer against God.​—Matt. 26:65-67; John 18:22; 19:1, 17, 18.

It took tremendous courage for Jesus to endure all of this. He could have avoided making himself an object of hostility by simply leading a good life as a carpenter in Nazareth. But he courageously declared the truth, exposing religious falsehoods and the wrongness of a life lived solely for self-interest. That brought upon him the world’s hatred, for those who preferred living a life contrary to God’s will did not want to be shown up as wicked. It hurt them to be exposed as not being the “righteous” persons many of them claimed to be.​—John 3:19, 20.

Disciples of Jesus Christ are called upon to do what he did. Not only must they live a life that comports with God’s will, but they must be actively involved in helping others to do likewise. (Matt. 28:19, 20) This activity, especially, brings them into direct conflict with those who prefer their own wicked ways. These react violently, wanting this work stopped. Faced with violent opposition, cowards would stop, but true Christians would not.

The spirit or dominant attitude of true Christians is not one of cowardice. They may be shy, fearful of injury or even in need of encouragement to reflect greater boldness. But they do not allow any fear or shyness to cause them to quit doing the divine will, as would cowards. The Christian apostle Paul reminded his faithful fellow worker Timothy of this, saying: “God gave us not a spirit of cowardice, but that of power and of love and of soundness of mind.”​—2 Tim. 1:7.

Paul very much appreciated that God had given him a spirit of power. In his letter to Christians at Philippi, he stated: “For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.” (Phil. 4:13) Paul had been given power to encounter foes and dangers of all kinds so that he did not shrink back in fear. He was given power to endure severe trials and persecutions.​—2 Cor. 11:23-27; 12:9, 10.

Besides a God-given ‘spirit of power,’ a ‘spirit of love’ impelled Paul to continue in faithful service. He had deep love for Jehovah God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Filled with appreciation for what they had done in his behalf, he wrote: “I am the least of the apostles, and I am not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God. But by God’s undeserved kindness I am what I am. And his undeserved kindness that was toward me did not prove to be in vain, but I labored in excess of them all, yet not I but the undeserved kindness of God that is with me.” (1 Cor. 15:9, 10) Then, too, Paul had an intense love for fellow humans, including his countrymen who often were responsible for the persecutions that befell him. With a clear conscience he could say: “I have great grief and unceasing pain in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were separated as the cursed one from the Christ in behalf of my brothers, my relatives according to the flesh.”​—Rom. 9:2, 3.

Additionally, a spirit of soundness of mind aided Paul to maintain faithfulness. He kept a balanced outlook, appreciating that the truly important thing was his relationship to Jehovah God as a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. (Phil. 3:8-11) This prevented him from yielding to pressure to make things easier on himself by compromise.

It was because Paul maintained the God-given spirit “of power and of love and of soundness of mind” that he remained an approved disciple of Jesus Christ. He was certain of his reward and, therefore, when about to face death, wrote to Timothy: “I have fought the fine fight, I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith. From this time on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me as a reward in that day, yet not only to me, but also to all those who have loved his manifestation.”​—2 Tim. 4:7, 8.

Cowards, however, have no basis for such confidence. In fact, God’s Word clearly shows that they have no reward. They are among those to experience “second death,” a death from which there is no resurrection.​—Rev. 21:8.

It is only right that this be the case, for the coward is disloyal to God. When seeing others undergo suffering for righteousness’ sake, he becomes frightened and quits serving God in order to escape possible injury at the hands of men. Faced with a test of integrity, he places himself on the side of Satan the Devil by showing that in his case the adversary’s claim is true: “Skin in behalf of skin, and everything that a man has he will give in behalf of his soul.”​—Job 2:4.

The coward betrays complete lack of faith in God’s ability to offset all the harm that Satan and his agents might cause. If he yields to the threat of death, he manifests lack of faith in God’s promise of the resurrection. (Matt. 10:28; Heb. 11:35) If economic pressure causes him to disobey divine law, he reveals that he has no faith in God’s assurance to provide for his servants as a whole.​—Heb. 13:5, 6.

If you desire to be among those who do not yield to such cowardly fear under pressure, take steps to strengthen your faith. Study God’s Word, appeal to him for direction and guidance, associate with courageous Christians and actively aid others to become Jesus’ disciples. Then, like Paul, you can look forward to the reward of life that is to be bestowed, not upon cowards, but upon courageous Christians.

Insight on the News

Insight on the News

Churches in Financial Pinch

● Declining incomes trouble many churches. A general assembly of the United Presbyterian Church (seventh-largest U.S. Protestant denomination) was told that the church is near bankruptcy. In England, the incoming Archbishop of Canterbury warned that “the church in the coming years will be stripped of much of its possessions” by means of inflation. A number of Anglican churches have had to sell treasured gold and silver plates to cover expenses.

Temple Beth Am, a Jewish synagogue in Amherst, New York, has chosen a different method: Bingo. Marshall Glickman, former president of the Reform congregation, says: “We are turning to bingo because we are nearly $400,000 in debt. . . . If we push too hard for higher dues, we force people to drop out.” He says that a Jewish temple in nearby Niagara Falls “began a bingo game and in three years cleared $75,000.” Compare this with the spontaneous giving on the part of God’s servants as described at Exodus 36:3-7 and; 1 Chronicles 29:9.

Coping with Stress

● “A calm heart is the life of the fleshly organism,” says the Bible. (Prov. 14:30) Today people’s calmness is under heavy attack from the stress of modern living. What happens to the “fleshly organism” under such pressure?

Heartbeat steps up, blood pressure rises, digestion slows and numerous other changes take place. According to a recent book titled “Stress,” when relief does not arrive, these body reactions keep on and build a cumulative effect, “wearing out the motor of the body without taking us anywhere.”

Prolonged tension can bring serious damage​—from ulcers to crippling headaches to heart trouble. What is the solution?

Many turn to tranquilizers and “mood pills.” But, as the authors of “Stress” point out, “these pills never really solve anything, they only obscure it.”

The remedy, according to researchers, is to get at the cause of stress and either adjust your life to bring relief or adjust your attitude to reduce the effect on mind and body.

Some things in life are simply beyond human control to change. And adjusting one’s attitude requires insight into the reasons for life’s problems and something solid to rest one’s hopes on for something better. “The waning power of religion,” the book “Stress” observes, “is one reason why life has become so stressful in the Western world.” But religion founded on truth will not wane in power. That truth is found in God’s Word, pointing the way to the ‘calmness of heart’ that contributes to health of mind and body.​—Prov. 3:4-8; Matt. 6:25-34; Phil. 4:6, 7.

Alternative to Blood Transfusions

● How severe an anemia resulting from blood loss can be survived without a blood transfusion? Oxygen is vital to life and hemoglobin is the blood component transporting oxygen. Anemia is considered “severe” when the hemoglobin count drops to 6 grams (per 100 milliliters of blood) or lower. (Normal is 13-15 grams.) Even when the count drops to only 10 grams, and there is considerable bleeding, doctors generally want to transfuse blood.

Under the heading “Exceptional Blood Loss Anemia,” the “Journal of the American Medical Association” (JAMA) of May 20, 1974, cites three cases involving Jehovah’s witnesses where the hemoglobin levels dropped to 6.9, 3.8 and 2.6 grams respectively. On account of the patients’ religious convictions, doctors at Long Beach Naval Hospital tried treatment other than blood transfusion. Along with intramuscular injections of dextran and intravenous injections of balanced saline solutions, they administered “hyperbaric oxygen” to compensate for the lack of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin. What resulted?

“Dramatic improvement, with reversal of the signs and symptoms of hypoxia [lack of oxygen] in all three patients,” the article states.

Such treatment in itself may not solve the cause of the anemia, but it may allow the doctor needed time to work at the solution, or time for the patient’s body to apply its own healing power, without resorting to blood transfusions. And it illustrates again that alternative methods are often available to doctors willing to respect convictions based on God’s law regarding the use of blood.​—Acts 15:28, 29.

How Are God and Christ “One”?

How Are God and Christ “One”?

“I AND the Father are one.” (John 10:30) Those words, uttered by Jesus Christ, enraged his fellow countrymen. They considered his statement to be blasphemous and were ready to stone him. (John 10:31-33) Why was this so? Had Jesus Christ claimed that he was God himself, his Father’s equal?

The context in which Jesus’ words appear in the Biblical narrative reveal what he meant. A group of Jews had encircled him, demanding that he tell them outspokenly whether he was indeed the Christ. Answering them, Jesus stated: “I have told you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name are my witness; but you do not believe, because you are no sheep of mine. The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life; they will never be lost and no one will ever steal them from me. The Father who gave them to me is greater than anyone, and no one can steal from the Father. The Father and I are one.”​—John 10:25-30, Jerusalem Bible.

ONENESS NOT EQUALITY

Clearly Jesus Christ was not claiming to be his Father’s equal. He himself stated that he acted, not in his own name, but in the ‘name of his Father.’ He recognized his Father’s superior position and authority, acknowledging that the “sheep” had been given to him by his Father. He pointedly said that ‘the Father is greater than anyone.’ At the same time the Father and the Son are “one” in purpose respecting the salvation of the “sheep.” That is, both are equally concerned about the “sheep,” not allowing anyone to snatch them out of their hand.

That Jesus referred​—not to an equality of godship—​but to a oneness of purpose and action is confirmed by his prayer recorded at John chapter 17. Jesus said: “I have made your name manifest to the men you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have observed your word. They have now come to know that all the things you gave me are from you . . . I make request, not concerning the world, but concerning those you have given me; because they are yours, and all my things are yours and yours are mine . . . Also, I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world and I am coming to you. Holy Father, watch over them on account of your own name which you have given me, in order that they may be one just as we are.”​—John 17:6-11.

Note that the thoughts voiced by Jesus in this prayer are similar to his words recorded at John chapter 10. In Joh chapter 17, Jesus again acknowledged that his disciples, his “sheep,” were given to him by the Father. So the kind of oneness referred to in both of these chapters is the same. From Jesus’ prayer we can see that Jesus and his Father are “one” in the same sense that his true followers can be “one.” (John 17:11) Obviously the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ could never become part of a triune God. However, they could be one in purpose and activity. Further proving that Jesus never claimed equality with his Father is the fact that, in his prayer, he addressed his Father as the “only true God” and spoke of himself as his Father’s “representative.”​—John 17:3, 8.

But someone might object, arguing, ‘When Jesus said “I and the Father are one,” the Jews took it to mean that he was God, and Jesus did not deny this.’ But is that really the case? Why not examine the account?

The Catholic Jerusalem Bible reads: “Jesus said to them, ‘I have done many good works for you to see, works from my Father; for which of these are you stoning me?’ The Jews answered him, ‘We are not stoning you for doing a good work but for blasphemy: you are only a man and you claim to be God’. Jesus answered: ‘Is it not written in your Law: I said, you are gods? So the Law uses the word gods of those to whom the word of God was addressed, and scripture cannot be rejected. Yet you say to someone the Father has consecrated and sent into the world, “You are blaspheming”, because he says, “I am the Son of God”. If I am not doing my Father’s work, there is no need to believe me; but if I am doing it, then even if you refuse to believe in me, at least believe in the work I do; then you will know for sure that the Father is in me and I am in the Father’”​—John 10:32-38.

Why, then, did faithless Jews come to the conclusion that Jesus was making himself “God”? Evidently because Jesus attributed to himself powers that the Jews believed belonged exclusively to the Father. For example, Jesus said that he would give “eternal life” to the “sheep.” That was something no human could do. However, what the unbelieving Jews overlooked was that Jesus acknowledged having received everything from his Father, and the fine works he was doing proved that he was his Father’s representative. They were wrong in concluding that he was blasphemously making himself God.

That the unbelieving Jews reasoned wrongly is also evident from other incidents. When questioned before the Sanhedrin, Jesus was falsely accused of blasphemy, not because of claiming to be ‘God the Son,’ but because of claiming to be the ‘Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ (Matt. 26:63-68; Luke 22:66-71) Also, on an earlier occasion, certain Jews got the idea that Jesus was making himself equal to God and wanted to kill him as a blasphemer. Of this, John 5:18 tells us: “The Jews began seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath but he was also calling God his own Father, making himself equal to God.” Note that Jesus did not say that he was God himself but that he called ‘God his Father.’ Jesus’ unbelieving fellow countrymen, however, objected to his claiming this relationship to his Father, this special Sonship. And just as they were wrong in labeling Jesus as a Sabbath breaker, they were also wrong in their assertion about Jesus’ making himself equal to God because of ‘calling God his own Father.’

NOT ETERNAL LIKE HIS FATHER

The oneness or unity that Jesus enjoyed with his Father is, of course, far greater and grander than that enjoyed in any human father-and-son relationship. Even before the creation of the physical universe the Father and the Son were “one.”

With reference to his prehuman existence, Jesus said to unbelieving Jews: “Before Abraham ever was, I Am.” (John 8:58, Jerusalem Bible) Did Jesus thereby identify himself as being Jehovah? Did not God tell Moses, “‘I Am who I Am. This’ he added ‘is what you must say to the sons of Israel: “I Am has sent me to you”’”? (Ex. 3:14, Je) Many translations use the expression “I Am” both at John 8:58 and Exodus 3:14. But do both texts express the same thought?

No. We know that they do not because at Exodus 3:14 the Greek Septuagint Version (the translation that was often quoted by the apostles in the first century C.E.) reads, e·goʹ ei·miʹ ho Ohnʹ, “I am the Being.” This is quite different from the simple use of the words e·goʹ ei·miʹ (I am) at John 8:58. The verb ei·miʹ, at John 8:58, is evidently in the historical present, as Jesus was speaking about himself in relation to Abraham’s past. Numerous translators indicate this in their renderings. For example, An American Translation reads: “I existed before Abraham was born!”

Jesus’ pointing to his prehuman existence should have come as no surprise to the Jews. Centuries earlier, Micah’s prophecy said of the Messiah: “You, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, the one too little to get to be among the thousands of Judah, from you there will come out to me the one who is to become ruler in Israel, whose origina is from early times, from the days of time indefinite.” (Mic. 5:2) Thus while Jesus existed long before Abraham, he is not without beginning. Unlike his Father, who is “from time indefinite to time indefinite,” the Son is spoken of as having “origin.”​—Ps. 90:2.

The very fact that Jesus is called the “Son of God” reveals that he was produced by the Father and is, therefore, his firstborn and only-begotten Son. Jesus himself said: “I live because of the Father.” (John 6:57) After having come into existence, the Son was used in creating everything. (John 1:1-3; Col. 1:15-17; Heb. 1:2) As firstborn Son, this one enjoyed a special intimacy with the Father. He is spoken of in Scripture as being “in the bosom position with the Father.”​—John 1:18.

So perfectly did Jesus reflect the image​—the personality and ways—​of his Father that he could say to Philip: “He that has seen me has seen the Father.” (John 14:9) That is why one can come to know God only through the Son. As Jesus put it: “All things have been delivered to me by my Father, and who the Son is no one knows but the Father; and who the Father is, no one knows but the Son, and he to whom the Son is willing to reveal him.”​—Luke 10:22.

What a grand oneness exists between Jehovah God and his firstborn Son! They are always “one” in purpose and activity. But, as the Scriptures clearly show, they are not equal. The Son always acknowledges his Father’s superior position, subjecting himself to his Father as his God and delighting in doing his Father’s will. “He that sent me,” said Jesus, “is with me; he did not abandon me to myself, because I always do the things pleasing to him.” (John 8:29; 1 Cor. 11:3) Thus Jesus truly is, not ‘God the Son’ or the “second person” of a triune God, but the “Son of God.”​—John 20:31.

[Footnotes]

This rendering is in harmony with the lexicons of Brown-Driver-Briggs, Koehler-Baumgartner and Gesenius.

Faithfulness—A Way of Life

Faithfulness​—A Way of Life

“What is looked for in stewards is for a man to be found faithful.”​—1 Cor. 4:2.

1, 2. (a) What is “Old Faithful,” and how did it get its name? (b) But what is admired even more than the regularity of a geyser?

“OLD FAITHFUL” is the name of one of the many geysers in Yellowstone National Park in the United States. It got its name from the fact that during the 1920’s and 1930’s it erupted more or less regularly every sixty-five minutes. And due to this fact, it became famous as a tourist attraction.

2 People admire faithfulness not only in a geyser that regularly sends up 10,000 gallons of steam and hot water to a height of 100 to 150 feet, but especially in persons who have a way of life that makes them dependable and trustworthy. Even in the business world what is looked for in a person entrusted with responsibility is faithfulness. It is probably for such a reason that the U.S. Marine Corps chose as its motto Semper fidelis, “ever faithful.”​—Compare 1 Corinthians 4:2.

3, 4. Who is the greatest example of faithfulness, and what are appropriate symbols of the dependability of his purpose?

3 But when it comes to demonstrating a superlative degree of faithfulness, who particularly comes to your mind? It should be none other than Jehovah God, the “faithful Creator” of the heavens and the earth. (1 Pet. 4:19) Whereas a geyser might be a fitting symbol of faithfulness for humans, it certainly would be a poor representation of the unchanging faithfulness of Jehovah. Geysers all become erratic or inactive with the passing of time. Not so with Jehovah. Hence, the enduring sun and moon are more appropriate tokens of the unchangeableness of his purpose, his trustworthiness and flawless dependability.​—Ps. 89:36, 37; 104:19.

4 Man can plan and work with confidence, trusting in the stability of the Creator’s works, whether man is planting a vegetable garden or designing a computer that will guide him to the moon and back. It stands to reason that man can also learn infinitely much from a faithful God who has proved so reliable, not only in what he has said, but also in what he has done. Concerning this faithful God, we read: “Do you attribute greatness to our God! The Rock, perfect is his activity, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness, with whom there is no injustice; righteous and upright is he.”​—Deut. 32:3, 4.

5. Among worshipers of God, what characteristic is expected, and what does He observe?

5 It should be expected that this “God of faithfulness” would look for this same characteristic among those who truly worship him. He is, in fact, the God and Savior “especially of faithful ones.” (1 Tim. 4:10) With his complete powers of observation, the living God Jehovah discerns with accuracy the earnest efforts of those who endeavor to serve him. His eyes are open to see all the ways of the sons of men, and it is to him that an accounting must be made. (Jer. 32:19; Heb. 4:13) As the Proverb says: “The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, keeping watch upon the bad ones and the good ones.”​—Prov. 15:3.

6. This being so, what questions should we ask ourselves?

6 Jehovah’s loving care and watchfulness for the welfare of his people are most evident. Realizing this fact, that the loving Creator is fully aware of the good ones as well as the bad, and what each is doing, a person does well to ask himself: ‘If Jehovah is looking for faithfulness among his people, does he view me as such a worshiper? Is my way of life one of faithfulness? How am I to know if he approves of me?’

A FAITHFUL STANDARD

7. What code or standard has Jehovah made available for mankind in general?

7 Is it not reasonable to suppose that the God of faithfulness would have a code or standard that would define for his worshipers what is right and what is wrong, good and bad, true and false? Yes, it is. And more than that, the God of order and peace has provided just such a divine standard, the Holy Bible, for the instruction and guidance of all mankind. No other book of instruction has been given such a worldwide distribution or is accessible to the great majority of mankind.​—1 Cor. 14:33.

8, 9. Why is a faithful adherence to God’s Word not always easy?

8 How, then, does your way of life compare with that approved in the Scriptures? In your imperfection you need not be discouraged when facing up to the perfect standards set forth in God’s Word. The assuring words of Psalm 103:14 say: “For he himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust.” Jehovah recognizes our inherited imperfections. His demands never exceed our limits to perform.

9 Nevertheless, holding to a faithful course is not always easy to do; especially is this true today when it is popular to do what is right in one’s own eyes and to go the way of the world. Simple, wholehearted faithfulness, however, is encouraged regardless of the magnitude of the test.

10, 11. (a) Do we necessarily have to undergo great trials and difficulties in order to prove our faithfulness? Illustrate. (b) How may we apply in our daily lives the principle stated by Jesus on the matter of faithfulness, and with what beneficial results?

10 On the other hand, doing something great is not always a requirement to prove our faithfulness or for us to have Jehovah’s blessing and approval. It was not a great test that Jehovah put upon Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. The simplicity of that test involving the first human couple serves as an excellent illustration of the principle stated over four thousand years later by God’s own Son, namely, “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.”​—Luke 16:10.

11 Today, some nineteen hundred years after those words were uttered, they still ring as true as ever, and the same principle applies in every facet of life among genuine worshipers of Jehovah God. You often observe it in the little things one does day by day and which reflect the goodness of a heart that is loyal and true to Jehovah. It may be that you will never be called on to take some stand demonstrating what observers might call outstanding faithfulness. But your constancy in doing what is right, your regularity and dependability in small things, will give a fine testimony and evidence of your deep appreciation of the divine standards of what is true and faithful. It is the ones faithful even in small matters that “Jehovah is safeguarding.”​—Ps. 31:23.

12. Describe how time and circumstances are related to this matter of faithfulness.

12 So one does not have to hold a position of prominence in the Christian congregation in order to enjoy Jehovah’s blessing that he pours out on those who are faithful. In your daily activity, whether it involves business or pleasure, either among others or just by yourself, faithfulness and integrity on your part will mirror the God who is righteous and faithful. As with proving endurance, so too it takes time to prove one’s faithfulness. It means practicing the truth day after day, making obedience to Scriptural laws and principles your way of life. In turn, Jehovah blesses you, as it is written: “A man of faithful acts will get many blessings.”​—Prov. 28:20.

13, 14. (a) By what should we measure the degree of our faithfulness? (b) What are some of the areas in which we can appraise our faithfulness to Jehovah?

13 Looking back for a moment, you may not think that anything of really great consequence has happened in your life. Judging by the world’s standards of achievement and success, probably you have not accomplished anything really great. But whose ways are you trying to copy? To whose standards have you been trying to attain? If you have been building a life record to please Jehovah, it will not be quickly forgotten by that God of faithfulness.

14 Stop and think. How do others view you? What is your reputation among your contemporaries and associates? Do they observe that you are one who strictly keeps his word? Do you have the reputation of one who pays his debts and who follows the policy of being prompt about everything? Perhaps it is a matter of being regular in Kingdom service and at meetings for worship. These may seem to be little things, but they could lead others to view you as someone faithful. Now, if others have noticed the way you have been conducting your life, has not your Father in the heavens seen and noted it too?

DOES NATURAL ABILITY PLAY A PART?

15, 16. (a) How may ability be defined, and does it have any bearing on the selection of elders in the congregation? (b) Besides natural abilities, what more important qualifications must appointed elders have?

15 Ability is said to be the power to perform. There is no question but that natural aptitude can be a great blessing. But is natural ability the important thing that God is looking for among his people?

16 It is true, in selecting elders in the congregation, ability is given consideration. Some may be gifted in certain ways. For example, to be an elder one must be “qualified to teach.” (1 Tim. 3:2) But this involves more than natural ability. A qualified teacher in the congregation needs to have accurate knowledge. He must know the whys and wherefores and have a deep insight into the Holy Scriptures. And more than having knowledge, he must be tactful, patient and interested in other people in order to be an effective teacher. The apostle Paul instructed Titus to make appointments of older men, stating that an overseer must be “holding firmly to the faithful word as respects his art of teaching, that he may be able both to exhort by the teaching that is healthful and to reprove those who contradict.” (Titus 1:9) Such accredited ones do not rely on their natural abilities but look to their Grand Instructor for guidance in assisting others in the congregation.

17. Those with natural abilities and special talents need to guard against what?

17 A measure of ability is often required to do certain other types of work in the congregation. But the results that are obtained should not be attributed just to personal ability or talent. In fact, those blessed with natural abilities need to be careful not to rely on their own understanding, but, rather, to lean on Jehovah, asking him to direct their steps. (Prov. 3:5, 6) Observation will usually show that those serving among us as elders, and others who are working hard, qualify through diligent study and application of what they learn. Over a period of time they have paid close attention to themselves and to their teaching, inclining their ears to God’s instruction. They have wanted to do his work as he wishes it to be done, and it is commendable to see how they allow Jehovah to use their time and talents in various ways to promote his worship.

18. Does God look upon elders and ministerial servants as men of greater faithfulness in the congregation? Explain.

18 How, then, does God view those who are serving as appointed overseers? Does he look upon them as more precious than others? As more faithful than others? No, it is good to keep things in proper perspective. Those selected to oversee are actually there to serve as slaves or servants, and as such they must wholeheartedly use their abilities and talents to the full in proving their faithfulness. They enjoy their privileges, not primarily because of what or who they are. Rather, they are in their respective positions because of a need created by the Kingdom proclaimers. Following the advice of Jesus, they minister to those in the congregation toward whom they are slaves. (Luke 22:26; Gal. 5:13) Faithful overseers recognize that their work is in connection with their fellow publishers of the good news, all of whom are precious in God’s sight when they demonstrate faithfulness.

19. What, then, is looked for in appointed overseers in the Christian congregation?

19 The responsibility and administrative duties of a steward suitably illustrate the ministry of a Christian overseer. Faithfulness is strictly required of them, as emphasized by what the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, when he said: “What is looked for in stewards is for a man to be found faithful.” (1 Cor. 4:2) This same apostle wrote to Titus, saying: “For an overseer must be free from accusation as God’s steward . . . hospitable, a lover of goodness, sound in mind, righteous, loyal, self-controlled.” (Titus 1:7, 8) It follows, then, that any ability a steward may have, natural or acquired, if it is to be of real value to God, must be coupled with the sterling quality of faithfulness. Even David, who pictured Christ Jesus, said: “My eyes are upon the faithful ones of the earth, that they may dwell with me. The one walking in a faultless way, he it is who will minister to me.”​—Ps. 101:6.

20. Why is faithfulness, and not ability, the thing Jehovah is looking for among those he approves?

20 Ability is something that one can receive from Jehovah as a gift. In Exodus, for example, we read how Jehovah gave wisdom, understanding and knowledge to certain ones who worked in building the beautiful tabernacle there in the wilderness. (See Exodus 35:30–36:1.) But when it comes to faithfulness, this is not something that God gives a person. Nor is it something that is inherited or that is automatically received at baptism. It must be worked at, developed. It takes time, effort, endurance to build up a record testifying to one’s way of life. It is up to the worshiper himself to display it as he does his work, carrying out his stewardship in faithfulness.​—1 Pet. 4:10.

THE PART MODESTY PLAYS

21. When it comes to boasting, what do the Scriptures counsel?

21 When it comes to a proper estimate of oneself, Jehovah gives this fine counsel: “Wisdom is with the modest ones.” (Prov. 11:2) One walking modestly with God realizes that he has nothing to brag about in himself, regardless of his ability or accomplishments. If he wants to boast, let him boast about the wonderful God he serves. This is what the Bible urges when it says that one should not brag about himself because of his mightiness or his riches. But, rather, let him brag about the fact that he knows Jehovah as a God of loving-kindness, justice and mercy.​—Jer. 9:23, 24.

22, 23. (a) How should we look upon any material possessions we might have? (b) Having done all we can, still how should we view ourselves? (c) What will help a person to keep from becoming bored and discouraged?

22 Some may have a little more of this world’s goods than others. Some may seemingly have a better station in life. But the instruction is most straightforward that the Christian must not be overconfident, relying on the things he possesses, but, rather, must work out his own salvation with fear and trembling. (Luke 12:15; Phil. 2:12) This recommended way of life means staying totally involved in pure worship, being rich in fine works.​—1 Tim. 6:17-19.

23 Any resources or talents that a person has should be viewed as a treasure held in trust, to be used to God’s honor and glory. In this way it will protect a person from getting puffed up because of his accomplishments in serving Jehovah. A fine attitude that everyone should cultivate after having done what was assigned is: “We are good-for-nothing slaves. What we have done is what we ought to have done.” (Luke 17:10) Serving as God directs, doing so gladly and willingly and dependably, whether prominently or not, is something that is agreeable to him. No one, however, should have a feeling of frustration or uselessness, even though there may be a certain sameness or monotony about the routine of work performed. Remember, what Jehovah continues to look for among his servants is that they be found always faithful in whatever he gives them to do.

24. Of what benefit to those faithful to Jehovah is the counsel at Romans 12:16?

24 Accurate knowledge of God’s ways helps to keep one humble and to prevent one from minding lofty things. (Rom. 12:16) It safeguards a person from boasting in what he has done and aids him faithfully to direct attention to the Source of goodness and greatness. If one is prominent, let it be because of loyal service to the true God and because of unselfishly giving of oneself on behalf of others. A favorable name with Jehovah should be the thing desired, having a reputation for faithfulness​—that is the way of life God approves.​—Eccl. 7:1.

HAVING A GOOD NAME WITH JEHOVAH

25. Following Pentecost 33 C.E., what assurance do we have that the twelve apostles were all faithful down to their death?

25 Even though the Bible makes no mention after Pentecost of 33 C.E. of most of the twelve apostles, and though there is no Biblical record of how they died, aside from James and a prophetic statement concerning Peter, the evidence indicates that they all maintained their faithfulness until death. We can be sure that they used their “all” in sacred service to the living God. And we can be sure that Jehovah did not forget any of them either. As enduring testimony to their faithfulness their names are inscribed on the foundations of the New Jerusalem.​—Rev. 21:14.

26. What encouragement are “old-timers” able to give to their younger brothers and sisters?

…