"KEEP ON THE WATCH"

A Warning Example

In many respects, people today are like the men and women who lived in Noah's day. At that time the earth was filled with violence, and the inclination of the heart of man was "only bade all the time." (Genesis 6:5) Most were consumed with the daily affairs of life. Before he brought the great Deluge, though, Jehovah gave people an opportunity to repent. He commissioned Noah to preach, and Noah obeyed-serving as "a preacher of righteousness" perhaps for 40 or 50 years or more. ( 2Peter 2:5) However, the people ignored Noah's warning message. 'They were not on the watch. In the end, therefore, only Noah and his family survived the execution of Jehovah's judgment. -Matthew 24:37-39.

Was Noah's ministry a success? Do not judge by the small number that responded . Really, Noah's preaching fulfilled its purpose regardless of the response. Why? Because it gave people ample opportunity to choose whether they would serve Jehovah or not. What about your preaching territory? Even if there is little positive response, you are having great success. Why? Because by preaching you are fulfilling the commission that Jesus gave his followers. -Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.

Next time: Ignoring God's Prophets

Watchtower, 2000