The Role Of Technology

Finally, consider how Jehovah has enabled his people to benefit from technological advances. Though early Christians did not live in an era of rapid technological advancement, one development they did make us of was the codex, or leaf -book. The codex replaced the cumbersome scroll. The book The Birth Of The Codex states: " In contrast to the slow and piecemeal process by which the codex ousted the roll in secular literature, the Christian adoption of the codex seems to have been instant and universal."
This reference work also says: "So universal is the Christian use of the codex in the second century that its introduction must date well before A.D. 100." The codex was easier to use than a scroll. Scriptures could be located faster. This surely helped the early Christians who, like Paul, not only explained the Scriptures but also 'proved by references' the things they were teaching. -Acts 17:2, 3.

The technological advances in our century have been astounding. High-speed printing presses have helped to make possible the simultaneous publication of Bible literature in scores of languages. Modern technology has speeded up the work of Bible translation. Trucks, trains, ships and airplanes make it possible to transport Bible literature rapidly throughout the earth.
Telephones and fax machines have made instant communication a reality. Through his spirit, Jehovah has moved his servants to put such technology to practical use to promote the spread of the good news worldwide.
They are not using such developments out of a desire to know and employ whatever is the latest in the world. Instead, their first and foremost interest is what will help to carry out their preaching commission effectively.

"This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth," Jesus foretold. (Matthew 24:14) Just as early Christians saw a fulfillment of that prophecy, we today see such on a vast scale. Despite the enormity and difficulty of the work, during times favorable and unfavorable, amid changing laws and attitudes, in war and its advances, the good news has been and is being preached. Does this not fill you with awe at Jehovah's wisdom and amazing foresight?
We may be absolutely sure that the preaching work will be completed according to Jehovah's timetable and that his loving purpose will be accomplished to the blessing of the righteous. They will come to possess the earth and live on it forever. (Psalm 37:29; Habakkuk 2:3) If we harmonize our lives with Jehovah's purpose, we will be among them. - 1 Timothy 4:16.

Next time: Benefiting From "The Grain From Heaven"

Watchtower, 1999