Testimony From the Law and the Psalms
Paul's resurrection hope was in harmony with "things set forth in the Law." God told the Israelites: "You must . . .bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest. And [on Nisan16] he must wave the sheaf to and from before Jehovah to gain approval for you." (Leviticus 23:9-14) Perhaps with this Law in mind, Paul wrote: "Christ has been raised up from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep in death." As "the firstfruits," Jesus was resurrected on Nisan 16, 33 C.E. Later, during his presence, there would be a resurrection of 'afterfruits' -his spirit-anointed followers. -1 Corinthians 15:20-23; 2 Corinthians 1:21; 1 John 2:20, 27.
The Psalms also furnish support of the resurrection. On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., the apostle Peter quoted from Psalm 16:8-11, saying: "David says respecting [Christ], 'I had Jehovah constantly before my eyes; because he is at my right hand that I may never be shaken. On this account my heart became cheerful and my tongue rejoiced greatly. Moreover, even my flesh will reside in hope; because you will not leave my soul in Hades, neither will you allow you loyal one to see corruption.' "Peter added: "[David] saw beforehand and spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that neither was he forsaken in Hades nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God resurrected." -Acts 2:25-32.
Some days later, Peter stood before the Sanhedrin and again quoted from the Psalms. Asked how he cured a lame beggar, the apostle said: "Let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you impaled but whom God raised up from the dead, by this one does this man stand here sound in front of you. This[Jesus] is 'the stone that was treated by you builders as of not account that has become the head of the corner.' Furthermore, there is no salvation in anyone else, for there is not another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved." -Acts 4:10-12.
Peter here quoted from Psalm 118:22, applying what it said to Jesus' death and resurrection. Goaded on by their religious leaders, the Jews rejected Jesus. (John 19:14-18; Acts 13:14, 15) 'the builders' rejecting the stone' resulted in Christ's death, but 'the stone becoming the head of the corner' signified his being raised to spirit glory in heaven. As the psalmist foretold, 'this came to be from Jehovah himself.' 9Psalm 118:23) Making "the stone" the Head of the corner involved exalting him as King-Designate. -Ephesians 1:19, 20.
Next time:Sustained by the Resurrection Hope
Watchtower, 2000
7.31.2011
THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
Resurrection -A Long-Standing Hope
When on trial before Roman Governor, Felix, Paul testified: "I believe all the things set forth in the Law and written in the Prophets; and I have hope toward God . . . that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." (Acts 24:14, 15) How do parts of God's Word, such as "the Law," point to the raising of the dead?
God himself alluded to a resurrection when he gave the first prophecy in Eden. When sentencing "the original serpent," Satan the Devil, God said: "I shall put enmity between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel." (Revelation 12:9; Genesis 3:14, 15) Bruising the heel of the woman's seed meant the killing of Jesus Christ. If that Seed was to bruise the serpent's head thereafter, Christ would have to be raised from the dead.
Jesus declared: "That the dead are raised up even Moses disclosed, in the account about the thornbush, when he calls Jehovah 'te God of Abraham and God of Isaac and God of Jacob.' He is a God, not of the dead, but of the living, for they are all living to him." (Luke 20:27, 37, 38; Exodus 3:6) Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were dead, but God's purpose to resurrect them was so sure to be fulfilled that to him they were as good as alive.
Abraham had reason for hope in the resurrection, for when he and his wife Sarah, were very old, and they were dead as regards ability to produce children, God miraculously restored their reproductive powers. This was like a resurrection. (Genesis 18:9-11; 21:1-3; Hebrews 11:11, 12) When their son, Isaac, was about 25 years old, God told Abraham to sacrifice him. Just as Abraham was about to strike Isaac dead, however, Jehovah's angel stayed his hand. Abraham had "reckoned that God was able to raise [Isaac] up even from the dead; and from there he did receive him also in an illustrative way." -Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18.
Abraham hoped in a resurrection under the rule of the Messiah, the promised Seed. From his prehuman vantage point, God's Son noted Abraham's faith. As the man Jesus Christ, he therefore told the Jews: "Abraham your father rejoiced greatly in the prospect of seeing my day." (John 8:56-58; Proverbs 8:30, 31) Abraham now sleeps in death, awaiting a resurrection to life on earth under God's Messianic Kingdom. -Hebrews 11:8-10, 13.
Next time: Testimony From the Law and the Psalms
Watchtower, 2000
When on trial before Roman Governor, Felix, Paul testified: "I believe all the things set forth in the Law and written in the Prophets; and I have hope toward God . . . that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." (Acts 24:14, 15) How do parts of God's Word, such as "the Law," point to the raising of the dead?
God himself alluded to a resurrection when he gave the first prophecy in Eden. When sentencing "the original serpent," Satan the Devil, God said: "I shall put enmity between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel." (Revelation 12:9; Genesis 3:14, 15) Bruising the heel of the woman's seed meant the killing of Jesus Christ. If that Seed was to bruise the serpent's head thereafter, Christ would have to be raised from the dead.
Jesus declared: "That the dead are raised up even Moses disclosed, in the account about the thornbush, when he calls Jehovah 'te God of Abraham and God of Isaac and God of Jacob.' He is a God, not of the dead, but of the living, for they are all living to him." (Luke 20:27, 37, 38; Exodus 3:6) Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were dead, but God's purpose to resurrect them was so sure to be fulfilled that to him they were as good as alive.
Abraham had reason for hope in the resurrection, for when he and his wife Sarah, were very old, and they were dead as regards ability to produce children, God miraculously restored their reproductive powers. This was like a resurrection. (Genesis 18:9-11; 21:1-3; Hebrews 11:11, 12) When their son, Isaac, was about 25 years old, God told Abraham to sacrifice him. Just as Abraham was about to strike Isaac dead, however, Jehovah's angel stayed his hand. Abraham had "reckoned that God was able to raise [Isaac] up even from the dead; and from there he did receive him also in an illustrative way." -Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18.
Abraham hoped in a resurrection under the rule of the Messiah, the promised Seed. From his prehuman vantage point, God's Son noted Abraham's faith. As the man Jesus Christ, he therefore told the Jews: "Abraham your father rejoiced greatly in the prospect of seeing my day." (John 8:56-58; Proverbs 8:30, 31) Abraham now sleeps in death, awaiting a resurrection to life on earth under God's Messianic Kingdom. -Hebrews 11:8-10, 13.
Next time: Testimony From the Law and the Psalms
Watchtower, 2000
Jesus Heals
The following pictures are by
nubiagroup.blogspot.com
The pictures are by http://nubiagroup.blogspot.com/
7.30.2011
THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
Other Resurrections Strengthens Our Hope
When Jesus sent his apostles out as Kingdom preachers, he said: "Raise up dead persons." (Matthew 10:5-8) To do this, of course, they had to rely on God's power. At Joppa in 36 C.E., the godly woman Dorcas (Tabitha) fell asleep in death. Her good deeds had included the making of garments for needy widows, among whom her death caused much weeping. The disciples prepared her for burial and sent for the apostle Peter, perhaps for consolation. (Acts 9:32-38) He dismissed everyone from the upper chamber, prayed,and said: "Tabitha, rise!" She opened her eyes, sat up, took Peter's hand, and he raised her up. This first reported resurrection by an ap0stle caused many to become believers. (Acts 9:39-42) It also gives us added reason for hope in the resurrection.
The last resurrection of Bible record occurred in Troas. When Paul stopped there in his third missionary trip, he prolonged his discourse until midnight. Overcome by weariness and perhaps by the heat of many lamps and the crowded conditions in the meeting place, a young man named Eutychus fell asleep and tumbled from a third-story window. He "was picked up dead," not merely unconscious. Paul threw himself upon Eutychus, embraced him, and told onlookers: "Stop raising a clamor, for his soul is in him." Paul meant that the young man's life had been restored. Those present "were comforted beyond measure." (Acts 20:7-12) Today, God's servants find great comfort in the knowledge that their former associates in God's service will experience the fulfillment of the resurrection hope.
Next time: Resurrection-A Long-Standing Hope
Watchtower, 2000
When Jesus sent his apostles out as Kingdom preachers, he said: "Raise up dead persons." (Matthew 10:5-8) To do this, of course, they had to rely on God's power. At Joppa in 36 C.E., the godly woman Dorcas (Tabitha) fell asleep in death. Her good deeds had included the making of garments for needy widows, among whom her death caused much weeping. The disciples prepared her for burial and sent for the apostle Peter, perhaps for consolation. (Acts 9:32-38) He dismissed everyone from the upper chamber, prayed,and said: "Tabitha, rise!" She opened her eyes, sat up, took Peter's hand, and he raised her up. This first reported resurrection by an ap0stle caused many to become believers. (Acts 9:39-42) It also gives us added reason for hope in the resurrection.
The last resurrection of Bible record occurred in Troas. When Paul stopped there in his third missionary trip, he prolonged his discourse until midnight. Overcome by weariness and perhaps by the heat of many lamps and the crowded conditions in the meeting place, a young man named Eutychus fell asleep and tumbled from a third-story window. He "was picked up dead," not merely unconscious. Paul threw himself upon Eutychus, embraced him, and told onlookers: "Stop raising a clamor, for his soul is in him." Paul meant that the young man's life had been restored. Those present "were comforted beyond measure." (Acts 20:7-12) Today, God's servants find great comfort in the knowledge that their former associates in God's service will experience the fulfillment of the resurrection hope.
Next time: Resurrection-A Long-Standing Hope
Watchtower, 2000
THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
God's Son Raised the Dead
God's Son, Jesus Christ, has given us sound reasons for believing that the dead can be resurrected, (but only Jehovah and Jesus Christ can do this ) with the prospect of everlasting life. An incident that occurred near the city of Nain can help us to realize that such a miracle is possible through God-given power. On one occasion, Jesus met mourners carrying the body of a young man out of the city for burial. He was the only child of a widow. Jesus told her: "Stop weeping." Then he touched the bier and said: "Young man, I say to you, Get up!" At that he sat up and spoke. (Luke 7:11-15) This miracle certainly bolsters our conviction that the resurrection hope is sure.
Consider, too, an event involving Jairus, a presiding officer of the synagogue in Capernaum. He asked Jesus to come and help his beloved 12-year-old daughter, who lay near death. Soon it was reported that the girl had died. Urging grief-stricken Jairus to exercise faith, Jesus accompanied him to his home where a crowd was weeping. They laughed when Jesus told them: "The young child has not died, but is sleeping." She was indeed dead, but Jesus was about to show that people can be raised to life just as they can be awakened from a deep sleep. Taking the girl by the hand, he said: "Girl, get up!" She rose instantly, and "her parents were beside themselves" with ecstasy. (Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:49-56) Undoubtedly, family members will be beside themselves" when their dead loved ones are raised to life on earth.
Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus approached his tomb and had the stone at its entrance removed. After praying publicly so that observers would know that he depended on God-given power, Jesus said in a loud voice: "Lazarus, come on out!" And out he came! His hands and feet were still bound with burial wrappings, and his face was covered with a cloth. "Loose him and let him go," said Jesus. Seeing this miracle, many who were there to comfort Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, put faith in Jesus. (John 11:1-45) Does not this account fill you with hope that your loved ones may be raised to life in God's new world?
When John the Baptizer was in prison, Jesus sent him this heartening message: "The blind are seeing again, . . .and the dead, are being raised up." (Matthew 11:4-6) Since Jesus when on earth resurrected the dead, he can surely do so as a mighty spirit creature empowered by God. Jesus is "the resurrection and the life," and how comforting it is to know that in the near future "all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out!" -John 5:28, 29; 11:25.
Next time: Other Resurrections Strengthen Our Hope
Watchtower, 2000
God's Son, Jesus Christ, has given us sound reasons for believing that the dead can be resurrected, (but only Jehovah and Jesus Christ can do this ) with the prospect of everlasting life. An incident that occurred near the city of Nain can help us to realize that such a miracle is possible through God-given power. On one occasion, Jesus met mourners carrying the body of a young man out of the city for burial. He was the only child of a widow. Jesus told her: "Stop weeping." Then he touched the bier and said: "Young man, I say to you, Get up!" At that he sat up and spoke. (Luke 7:11-15) This miracle certainly bolsters our conviction that the resurrection hope is sure.
Consider, too, an event involving Jairus, a presiding officer of the synagogue in Capernaum. He asked Jesus to come and help his beloved 12-year-old daughter, who lay near death. Soon it was reported that the girl had died. Urging grief-stricken Jairus to exercise faith, Jesus accompanied him to his home where a crowd was weeping. They laughed when Jesus told them: "The young child has not died, but is sleeping." She was indeed dead, but Jesus was about to show that people can be raised to life just as they can be awakened from a deep sleep. Taking the girl by the hand, he said: "Girl, get up!" She rose instantly, and "her parents were beside themselves" with ecstasy. (Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:49-56) Undoubtedly, family members will be beside themselves" when their dead loved ones are raised to life on earth.
Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus approached his tomb and had the stone at its entrance removed. After praying publicly so that observers would know that he depended on God-given power, Jesus said in a loud voice: "Lazarus, come on out!" And out he came! His hands and feet were still bound with burial wrappings, and his face was covered with a cloth. "Loose him and let him go," said Jesus. Seeing this miracle, many who were there to comfort Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, put faith in Jesus. (John 11:1-45) Does not this account fill you with hope that your loved ones may be raised to life in God's new world?
When John the Baptizer was in prison, Jesus sent him this heartening message: "The blind are seeing again, . . .and the dead, are being raised up." (Matthew 11:4-6) Since Jesus when on earth resurrected the dead, he can surely do so as a mighty spirit creature empowered by God. Jesus is "the resurrection and the life," and how comforting it is to know that in the near future "all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out!" -John 5:28, 29; 11:25.
Next time: Other Resurrections Strengthen Our Hope
Watchtower, 2000
7.29.2011
THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
They Received Their Dead by Resurrection
In a thrilling review of the faith displayed by Jehovah's pre-Christian witnesses, the apostle Paul wrote: "Women received their dead by resurrection." (Hebrews 11:35; 12:1) One of those women was a poor widow in the Phoenician town of Zarephath. Because she was hospitable to God's prophet Elijah, her flour and oil were miraculously sustained during a famine that would have claimed her life and that of her son. When the child later died, Elijah laid him on a couch, prayed, stretched himself out upon the boy three times, and pleaded: "O Jehovah my God, please cause the soul of this child to come back within him." God did cause the soul, or life, to come back within the boy. (1 Kings 17:8-24) Imagine that widow's joy as her faith was rewarded by the first recorded resurrection -that of her own dear son!
Another woman who received her dead by resurrection lived in the town of Shunem. The wife of an aged man, she showed kindness to the prophet Elisha and his attendant. She was rewarded with a son. Several years later, however, she summoned the prophet, who found the boy dead in her home. After Elisha prayed and took certain steps, "gradually the child's flesh grew warm." He began to sneeze as many as seven times, after which the boy opened his eyes." This resurrection undoubtedly brought great joy to both the mother and her son. (2 Kings 4:8-37; 8:1-6) But how much happier they will be when raised to life on earth in the "better resurrection" -one that sets before them the possibility of never having to die again! What a cause for thankfulness to the loving God of resurrection, Jehovah! - Hebrews 11:35.
Even after Elisha's death and burial, God made his bones powerful by holy spirit. We read: "As [certain Israelites] were burying a man, why, here they saw [ a Moabite]marauding band. At once they threw the man into Elisha's burial place and went off. When the [dead] man touched the bones of Elisha, he immediately came to life and stood upon his feet." (2 Kings 13:20, 21) How surprised and happy that man must have been! Imagine the joy that will be experienced when our loved one are raised to life in harmony with the unfailing purpose of Jehovah God!
Next time: God's Son Raised the Dead
Watchtower, 2000
In a thrilling review of the faith displayed by Jehovah's pre-Christian witnesses, the apostle Paul wrote: "Women received their dead by resurrection." (Hebrews 11:35; 12:1) One of those women was a poor widow in the Phoenician town of Zarephath. Because she was hospitable to God's prophet Elijah, her flour and oil were miraculously sustained during a famine that would have claimed her life and that of her son. When the child later died, Elijah laid him on a couch, prayed, stretched himself out upon the boy three times, and pleaded: "O Jehovah my God, please cause the soul of this child to come back within him." God did cause the soul, or life, to come back within the boy. (1 Kings 17:8-24) Imagine that widow's joy as her faith was rewarded by the first recorded resurrection -that of her own dear son!
Another woman who received her dead by resurrection lived in the town of Shunem. The wife of an aged man, she showed kindness to the prophet Elisha and his attendant. She was rewarded with a son. Several years later, however, she summoned the prophet, who found the boy dead in her home. After Elisha prayed and took certain steps, "gradually the child's flesh grew warm." He began to sneeze as many as seven times, after which the boy opened his eyes." This resurrection undoubtedly brought great joy to both the mother and her son. (2 Kings 4:8-37; 8:1-6) But how much happier they will be when raised to life on earth in the "better resurrection" -one that sets before them the possibility of never having to die again! What a cause for thankfulness to the loving God of resurrection, Jehovah! - Hebrews 11:35.
Even after Elisha's death and burial, God made his bones powerful by holy spirit. We read: "As [certain Israelites] were burying a man, why, here they saw [ a Moabite]marauding band. At once they threw the man into Elisha's burial place and went off. When the [dead] man touched the bones of Elisha, he immediately came to life and stood upon his feet." (2 Kings 13:20, 21) How surprised and happy that man must have been! Imagine the joy that will be experienced when our loved one are raised to life in harmony with the unfailing purpose of Jehovah God!
Next time: God's Son Raised the Dead
Watchtower, 2000
THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
JEHOVAH has given us sound reasons for hope in the resurrection. We have his word that the dead will rise, standing up again to life. And his purpose regarding those asleep in death is sure to be fulfilled. (Isaiah 55:11; Luke 18:27) In fact, God has already shown his power to raise the dead.
Faith in God's provision for raising the dead by means of his Son, Jesus Christ, can sustain us in times of stress. The sureness of the resurrection hope can also help us to maintain integrity to our heavenly Father even to the point of death. Likely, our resurrection hope will be strengthened as we consider restoration to life recorded in the Bible. All these miracles were accomplished through power from the Sovereign Lord Jehovah.
Next time: They Received Their Dead by Resurrection
Watchtower, 2000
Faith in God's provision for raising the dead by means of his Son, Jesus Christ, can sustain us in times of stress. The sureness of the resurrection hope can also help us to maintain integrity to our heavenly Father even to the point of death. Likely, our resurrection hope will be strengthened as we consider restoration to life recorded in the Bible. All these miracles were accomplished through power from the Sovereign Lord Jehovah.
Next time: They Received Their Dead by Resurrection
Watchtower, 2000
7.28.2011
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Rejoice in the Hope Ahead
The Bible promises "new heavens and a new earth," a righteous, caring heavenly government ruling over an obedient human family. (2 Peter 3:13) In that new world promised by God, war and injustice will be replaced by peace and justice. This is not just a fleeting wish, but it is a conviction that can grow stronger every day. it is good news indeed and surely a reason for rejoicing. -Romans 12:12; Titus 1:2.
John, mentioned at the outset, now feels that his life has greater meaning. "Though i was never very religious, I always believed in God," he says. "But I did nothing about this belief until two of Jehovah's Witnesses called on me. I barraged them with questions, such as, 'What are we doing here? Where are we going?"' Their satisfying Scriptural answers gave me a sense of purpose for the first time in my life. That was only the beginning. I developed a thirst for truth that led me to change my entire set of values. Even though I am not longer rich materially, I feel like a millionaire spiritually."
Like John, perhaps you have let your spiritual capacity lie dormant for many years. By developing "a heart of wisdom," however, you can revive it. (Psalm 90:12 ) With determination and effort, you can have genuine joy, peace and hope. (Romans 15:13) Yes, and your life can have greater meaning.
Next time: THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
Watchtower, 2000
The Bible promises "new heavens and a new earth," a righteous, caring heavenly government ruling over an obedient human family. (2 Peter 3:13) In that new world promised by God, war and injustice will be replaced by peace and justice. This is not just a fleeting wish, but it is a conviction that can grow stronger every day. it is good news indeed and surely a reason for rejoicing. -Romans 12:12; Titus 1:2.
John, mentioned at the outset, now feels that his life has greater meaning. "Though i was never very religious, I always believed in God," he says. "But I did nothing about this belief until two of Jehovah's Witnesses called on me. I barraged them with questions, such as, 'What are we doing here? Where are we going?"' Their satisfying Scriptural answers gave me a sense of purpose for the first time in my life. That was only the beginning. I developed a thirst for truth that led me to change my entire set of values. Even though I am not longer rich materially, I feel like a millionaire spiritually."
Like John, perhaps you have let your spiritual capacity lie dormant for many years. By developing "a heart of wisdom," however, you can revive it. (Psalm 90:12 ) With determination and effort, you can have genuine joy, peace and hope. (Romans 15:13) Yes, and your life can have greater meaning.
Next time: THE RESURRECTION HOPE IS SURE!
Watchtower, 2000
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
We Can Have "the Peace of God"
In this hectic world, few days pass by smoothly. Accidents occur, plans go wrong, and people disappoint us. These setbacks may rob us of happiness. to those serving Jehovah God, though, the Bible promises an inner contentment-"the peace of God." How do we acquire this peace?
The apostle Paul wrote: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7) Instead of trying to carry our problems alone, we need to pray fervently, throwing our daily burdens on God. (Psalm 55:22) Faith that he responds to such supplication through his Son, Jesus Christ, will increase as we grow spiritually and discern how God helps us. -John 14:6, 14; 2 Thessalonians 1:3.
After we have built up our confidence in Jehovah God, the "hearer of prayer," we are better able to cope with trials, such as prolonged sickness, old age or bereavement. (Psalm 65:2) For a truly meaningful life, however, we mus also take the future into account.
Next time: Rejoice in the Hope Ahead
Watchtower, 2000
In this hectic world, few days pass by smoothly. Accidents occur, plans go wrong, and people disappoint us. These setbacks may rob us of happiness. to those serving Jehovah God, though, the Bible promises an inner contentment-"the peace of God." How do we acquire this peace?
The apostle Paul wrote: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7) Instead of trying to carry our problems alone, we need to pray fervently, throwing our daily burdens on God. (Psalm 55:22) Faith that he responds to such supplication through his Son, Jesus Christ, will increase as we grow spiritually and discern how God helps us. -John 14:6, 14; 2 Thessalonians 1:3.
After we have built up our confidence in Jehovah God, the "hearer of prayer," we are better able to cope with trials, such as prolonged sickness, old age or bereavement. (Psalm 65:2) For a truly meaningful life, however, we mus also take the future into account.
Next time: Rejoice in the Hope Ahead
Watchtower, 2000
7.27.2011
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Conclusion of Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
Why does obedience to God satisfy us? Because we have a conscience, a gift that God has bestowed on all mankind. The conscience is a moral examiner that registers approval or disapproval of what we have done or consider doing. We have all experience the distress of a troubled conscience. (Romans 2:15) But our conscience can also reward us. When we act unselfishly toward God and fellow humans, we feel contented and satisfied. We find that "there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." (Acts 20:35) There is an important reason for this.
Our Creator made us in such a way that the desires and needs of fellow humans affect us. Helping others produces pleasure in our own hearts. Additionally, the Bible assures us that when we give to someone in need, God considers this a favor done to him. -Proverbs 19:17.
Apart from giving inner satisfaction, can attention to our spiritual needs help us in a practical way? Well, a Middle Eastern businessman named Raymond believes that it can. "My goal, pure and simple, was to make money," he says. "But from the time I accepted in my heart that there is a God and that the Bible expresses his wishes, I was a different man. Making a living now takes a second place in my life. By trying to please God, I have been spared the destructive feeling of hatred. Though my father died during a conflict, I have no wish to take revenge on those responsible."
As Raymond discovered, caring well for the needs of "the spiritual man" can heal deep emotional wounds. However, unless we cop with the problems that each day brings, life will not be entirely satisfying.
Next time: We Can Have "the Peace of God"
Watchtower, 2000
Why does obedience to God satisfy us? Because we have a conscience, a gift that God has bestowed on all mankind. The conscience is a moral examiner that registers approval or disapproval of what we have done or consider doing. We have all experience the distress of a troubled conscience. (Romans 2:15) But our conscience can also reward us. When we act unselfishly toward God and fellow humans, we feel contented and satisfied. We find that "there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." (Acts 20:35) There is an important reason for this.
Our Creator made us in such a way that the desires and needs of fellow humans affect us. Helping others produces pleasure in our own hearts. Additionally, the Bible assures us that when we give to someone in need, God considers this a favor done to him. -Proverbs 19:17.
Apart from giving inner satisfaction, can attention to our spiritual needs help us in a practical way? Well, a Middle Eastern businessman named Raymond believes that it can. "My goal, pure and simple, was to make money," he says. "But from the time I accepted in my heart that there is a God and that the Bible expresses his wishes, I was a different man. Making a living now takes a second place in my life. By trying to please God, I have been spared the destructive feeling of hatred. Though my father died during a conflict, I have no wish to take revenge on those responsible."
As Raymond discovered, caring well for the needs of "the spiritual man" can heal deep emotional wounds. However, unless we cop with the problems that each day brings, life will not be entirely satisfying.
Next time: We Can Have "the Peace of God"
Watchtower, 2000
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
As noted earlier, Jesus Christ associated happiness with awareness of our spiritual need. We have been created with both a spiritual and a moral capacity. Hence, the Bible refers to "the spiritual man" and "the secret person of the heart." -1 Corinthians 2:15; 1 Peter 3:3, 4.
According to An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W.E. Vine, the figurative heart stands for "man's entire mental and moral activity, both the rational and the emotional elements." By way of explanation, Vine adds: "In other words, the heart is used figuratively for the hidden springs of the personal life." The same work also notes that "the heart, as lying deep within,contains 'the hidden man,' . . .the real man."
How can we satisfy the needs of "the spiritual man," or "the hidden man," that is "the secret person of the heart"? We take an important step in doing this and satisfying our spiritual need when we acknowledge the point made by the inspired psalmist who sang: "Know that Jehovah is God. It is he that has made us, and not we ourselves. We are his people and the sheep of pasturage." (Psalm 100:3) Recognition of this reasonably leads us to conclude that we are accountable to God. If we want to be included among "his people and the sheep of his pasturage," we must act in harmony with his Word, the Bible.
Is that such a bad thing? No, for awareness that our conduct matters to God adds meaning to our lives. It encourages us to be better individuals-certainly a worthwhile goal. "Happy is the man in fear of Jehovah, in whose commandments he has taken very much delight," says Psalm 112:1. Reverential fear of God and heartfelt obedience to his commandments can give our lives greater meaning.
Next time: Conclusion of Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
Watchtower, 2000
As noted earlier, Jesus Christ associated happiness with awareness of our spiritual need. We have been created with both a spiritual and a moral capacity. Hence, the Bible refers to "the spiritual man" and "the secret person of the heart." -1 Corinthians 2:15; 1 Peter 3:3, 4.
According to An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W.E. Vine, the figurative heart stands for "man's entire mental and moral activity, both the rational and the emotional elements." By way of explanation, Vine adds: "In other words, the heart is used figuratively for the hidden springs of the personal life." The same work also notes that "the heart, as lying deep within,contains 'the hidden man,' . . .the real man."
How can we satisfy the needs of "the spiritual man," or "the hidden man," that is "the secret person of the heart"? We take an important step in doing this and satisfying our spiritual need when we acknowledge the point made by the inspired psalmist who sang: "Know that Jehovah is God. It is he that has made us, and not we ourselves. We are his people and the sheep of pasturage." (Psalm 100:3) Recognition of this reasonably leads us to conclude that we are accountable to God. If we want to be included among "his people and the sheep of his pasturage," we must act in harmony with his Word, the Bible.
Is that such a bad thing? No, for awareness that our conduct matters to God adds meaning to our lives. It encourages us to be better individuals-certainly a worthwhile goal. "Happy is the man in fear of Jehovah, in whose commandments he has taken very much delight," says Psalm 112:1. Reverential fear of God and heartfelt obedience to his commandments can give our lives greater meaning.
Next time: Conclusion of Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
Watchtower, 2000
7.26.2011
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Your Family and Friends Really Matter
Would you enjoy life if you had no contact with your family and had no close friends? Obviously not. Our creator made us with a need to love and be loved. That is one reason why Jess highlighted the importance of 'loving our neighbor as ourselves.' (Matthew 22:39) The family is a divine gift that provides an ideal setting for displaying unselfish love. -Ephesians 3:14, 15.
How can our family give our life greater meaning? Well, a united family might be compared to a beautiful garden that provides a refreshing refuge from the stress of everyday life. Similarly, within the family, we can find refreshing companionship and warmth that banish feelings of loneliness. Of course, a family does not automatically provide such a haven. As we strengthen family bonds, however, we grow closer to one another. and life becomes richer. For instance, the time and attention we give to showing love and respect for our marriage mate are daily investments that may ultimately yield rich dividends. Ephesians 5:33.
If we have children, we should strive to provide the right environment in which to bring them up. Spending time with them, keeping open the lines of communication, and giving them spiritual instruction may be demanding. But such time and effort can bring us great satisfaction. Successful parents view children as a blessing,a s an inheritance from God that should be well cared for. -Psalm 127:3.
Good friends also contribute to a satisfying and meaningful life. (Proverbs 27:9) We can make many friends by showing fellow feeling. (1 Peter 3:8) Genuine friends help to lift us up when we stumble. (Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10) and "a true companion . . .is a brother that is born for when there is distress." -Proverbs 17:17.
Next time: Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
Watchtower, 2000
Would you enjoy life if you had no contact with your family and had no close friends? Obviously not. Our creator made us with a need to love and be loved. That is one reason why Jess highlighted the importance of 'loving our neighbor as ourselves.' (Matthew 22:39) The family is a divine gift that provides an ideal setting for displaying unselfish love. -Ephesians 3:14, 15.
How can our family give our life greater meaning? Well, a united family might be compared to a beautiful garden that provides a refreshing refuge from the stress of everyday life. Similarly, within the family, we can find refreshing companionship and warmth that banish feelings of loneliness. Of course, a family does not automatically provide such a haven. As we strengthen family bonds, however, we grow closer to one another. and life becomes richer. For instance, the time and attention we give to showing love and respect for our marriage mate are daily investments that may ultimately yield rich dividends. Ephesians 5:33.
If we have children, we should strive to provide the right environment in which to bring them up. Spending time with them, keeping open the lines of communication, and giving them spiritual instruction may be demanding. But such time and effort can bring us great satisfaction. Successful parents view children as a blessing,a s an inheritance from God that should be well cared for. -Psalm 127:3.
Good friends also contribute to a satisfying and meaningful life. (Proverbs 27:9) We can make many friends by showing fellow feeling. (1 Peter 3:8) Genuine friends help to lift us up when we stumble. (Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10) and "a true companion . . .is a brother that is born for when there is distress." -Proverbs 17:17.
Next time: Satisfying Our Spiritual Need
Watchtower, 2000
7.25.2011
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
How Your Life Can Have Greater Meaning
AN ANCIENT proverbs says: "Do not toil to gain riches. Cease from your own understanding. have you caused your eyes to glance at it, when it is nothing? For without fail it makes wings for itself like those of an eagle and flies away toward the heavens." (Proverbs 23:4, 5) In other words, it is not wise to wear ourselves out trying to become rich, for wealth can fly away as on an eagle's wings.
As the Bible shows, material wealth can disappear quickly. It may vanish overnight because of a natural disaster, and economic slump, or other unforeseen occurrences. Moreover, even those who achieve material success are often disillusioned. Consider the case of John, who work involved entertaining politicians, sports figures and royalty.
John states: "I gave my job everything I had. I prospered financially, stayed in luxury hotels, and sometimes I even went to work by private jet. At first I enjoyed it, but gradually I became bored. The people I catered to seemed superficial. There was not substance to my life."
As John discovered, a life devoid of spiritual values is unsatisfying. In his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ showed how to experience lasting happiness. He said: "Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need, since the kingdom of the heavens belongs to them." (Matthew 5:3) Clearly, then, it is wise to put spiritual matters first in life. However, other factors can also help to give life greater meaning.
Next time: Your Family and Friends Really Matter
Watchtower, 2000
AN ANCIENT proverbs says: "Do not toil to gain riches. Cease from your own understanding. have you caused your eyes to glance at it, when it is nothing? For without fail it makes wings for itself like those of an eagle and flies away toward the heavens." (Proverbs 23:4, 5) In other words, it is not wise to wear ourselves out trying to become rich, for wealth can fly away as on an eagle's wings.
As the Bible shows, material wealth can disappear quickly. It may vanish overnight because of a natural disaster, and economic slump, or other unforeseen occurrences. Moreover, even those who achieve material success are often disillusioned. Consider the case of John, who work involved entertaining politicians, sports figures and royalty.
John states: "I gave my job everything I had. I prospered financially, stayed in luxury hotels, and sometimes I even went to work by private jet. At first I enjoyed it, but gradually I became bored. The people I catered to seemed superficial. There was not substance to my life."
As John discovered, a life devoid of spiritual values is unsatisfying. In his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ showed how to experience lasting happiness. He said: "Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need, since the kingdom of the heavens belongs to them." (Matthew 5:3) Clearly, then, it is wise to put spiritual matters first in life. However, other factors can also help to give life greater meaning.
Next time: Your Family and Friends Really Matter
Watchtower, 2000
Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
TRUE value is not always what it seems to be. The largest bank note issued in the United States had a face value of $10,000. Yet, the paper on which it is printed is worth only a few cents.
Have you ever wondered if pieces of paper that have little intrinsic value can give real meaning to your life? Many people think that they can. Millions work night and day in order to earn as much money as they possible can. Sometimes the pursuit of money means sacrificing their health, their friends, and even their family. To what avail? Can money-or what we buy with it-bring real and lasting satisfaction?
According to researchers, the more we seek satisfaction based on material possessions,the less likely we are to find it. Journalist Alfie Kohn concludes that "satisfaction simply is not for sale. . .People for whom affluence is a priority in life tend to experience an unusual degree of anxiety and depression as well as a lower overall level of well-being." -International Herald Tribune.
Though researchers may realize that a meaningful life calls for something other than money, many people think otherwise. This his hardly surprising, since those living in Western lands may be bombarded by as many as 3,000 marketing messages a day. Whether these are advertising cars or candy,the underlying idea is: 'Buy this product and you will be happier.'
What is the result of the relentless promotion of material values? Why, spiritual values are often ignored! According to a report in Newsweek magazine,the archbishop of Cologne, Germany recently declared that "in our society, God is no longer a topic."
Perhaps you have devoted nearly all your energies to making a living. Maybe you feel that you have little time to do anything else. Occasionally, however, you may sense that there must be more to life than endlessly running on a treadmill until you health or your age calls a halt to it.
Can more attention to spiritual matters bring you increased satisfaction? What would give your life greater meaning?
Next time: How Your Life Can Have Greater Meaning
Watchtower, 2000
Have you ever wondered if pieces of paper that have little intrinsic value can give real meaning to your life? Many people think that they can. Millions work night and day in order to earn as much money as they possible can. Sometimes the pursuit of money means sacrificing their health, their friends, and even their family. To what avail? Can money-or what we buy with it-bring real and lasting satisfaction?
According to researchers, the more we seek satisfaction based on material possessions,the less likely we are to find it. Journalist Alfie Kohn concludes that "satisfaction simply is not for sale. . .People for whom affluence is a priority in life tend to experience an unusual degree of anxiety and depression as well as a lower overall level of well-being." -International Herald Tribune.
Though researchers may realize that a meaningful life calls for something other than money, many people think otherwise. This his hardly surprising, since those living in Western lands may be bombarded by as many as 3,000 marketing messages a day. Whether these are advertising cars or candy,the underlying idea is: 'Buy this product and you will be happier.'
What is the result of the relentless promotion of material values? Why, spiritual values are often ignored! According to a report in Newsweek magazine,the archbishop of Cologne, Germany recently declared that "in our society, God is no longer a topic."
Perhaps you have devoted nearly all your energies to making a living. Maybe you feel that you have little time to do anything else. Occasionally, however, you may sense that there must be more to life than endlessly running on a treadmill until you health or your age calls a halt to it.
Can more attention to spiritual matters bring you increased satisfaction? What would give your life greater meaning?
Next time: How Your Life Can Have Greater Meaning
Watchtower, 2000
7.24.2011
Does The Bible Have a Hidden Code?
Do We Need a Hidden Bible Code?
The apostle Paul very clearly wrote that "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The clear and straightforward message in the Bible is not too difficult to understand or apply, but many people choose to ignore it. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) The prophecies that are openly presented in the Bible gives a solid basis for believing its inspiration. Unlike a hidden code, Bible prophecies are not arbitrary, and they do not 'spring from any private interpretation.' -2 Peter 1:19-21.
The apostle Peter wrote that "it was not by following artfully contrived false stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( 2 Peter 1:16) The concept of a Bible code has its roots in Jewish mysticism, utilizing "artfully contrived" methods that obscure and distort the plain meaning of the Bible's inspired text. The Hebrew Scriptures themselves unequivocally condemned such a mystical approach. -Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 18:9-13.
How happy are we to have the Bible's clear message and instruction, which can help us to know God! This is far better than trying to learn about our Creator by searching for hidden messages that are the products of private interpretation and computer-assisted imagination. -Matthew 7:24, 25.
Next time: Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Watchtower, 2000
The apostle Paul very clearly wrote that "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The clear and straightforward message in the Bible is not too difficult to understand or apply, but many people choose to ignore it. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) The prophecies that are openly presented in the Bible gives a solid basis for believing its inspiration. Unlike a hidden code, Bible prophecies are not arbitrary, and they do not 'spring from any private interpretation.' -2 Peter 1:19-21.
The apostle Peter wrote that "it was not by following artfully contrived false stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( 2 Peter 1:16) The concept of a Bible code has its roots in Jewish mysticism, utilizing "artfully contrived" methods that obscure and distort the plain meaning of the Bible's inspired text. The Hebrew Scriptures themselves unequivocally condemned such a mystical approach. -Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 18:9-13.
How happy are we to have the Bible's clear message and instruction, which can help us to know God! This is far better than trying to learn about our Creator by searching for hidden messages that are the products of private interpretation and computer-assisted imagination. -Matthew 7:24, 25.
Next time: Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?
Watchtower, 2000
Does The Bible Have a Hidden Code?
Proof of Inspiration?
Professor Brendan McKay, of the Department of Computer Science at the Australian National University, took up Drosnin's challenge and made extensive computer searches through the English text of Moby Dick. Using the same method described by Drosnin, McKay claims to have found "predictions" of the Assassinations of Indira Ghandi, Martin Luther King, Jr, John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln, and others. According to McKay, he discovered that Moby Dick also "prophesied' the murder of Yitzhak Rabin.
Returning to the Hebrew text of Genesis, Professor McKay and associates have also challenged the experimental results of Rips and his associates. The charge was that the results have less to do with an inspired coded message than with the researcher's method and approach-the fitting of data largely done at the discretion of the researchers. Scholarly debate on this point continues.
Another issue arises when claims are made that such encrypted messages were deliberately hidden in the "standard" or original Hebrew text. Rips and his fellow researchers say that they made their search with the "standard, generally accepted text of Genesis." Drosnin writes: "All Bibles in the original Hebrew language that now exist are the same letter for letter." But is this the case? Rather than a "standard" text, various editions of the Hebrew Bible are used today, based on different ancient manuscripts. While the Bible message does not differ, the individual manuscripts are not identical letter for letter.
Many translations today are based on the Leningrad C0dex-the oldest complete Hebrew Masoretic manuscript-copied about the year 1000 C.E. But Rips and Drosnin used a different text, namely the Koren. Shlomo Sternberg, an Orthodox rabbi and mathematician at Harvard University, explains that the Leningrad Codex "differs from the Koren edition used by Drosnin by 41 letters in Deuteronomy alone." The Dead Sea Scrolls include portions of the Bible text copied over 2,000 years ago. The spelling in these scrolls often differs considerably from later Masoretic texts. In some scrolls, certain letters were freely added to indicate vowel sounds, since vowel points had not yet been invented. In other scrolls, fewer letters were used. A comparison between all extant Bible manuscripts shows that the meaning of the Bible text remains intact. Yet, it also clearly indicates that the spelling and number of letters vary from text to text.
The search for a supposed hidden message depends upon an absolutely unchanging text. One letter altered would completely distort the sequence-and the message if there was one. God has preserved his message through the Bible. But he has not preserved each letter intact, as if he were obsessed with such trivial matters as spelling changes over the course of centuries. Does this not indicate that he has not buried a hidden message in the Bible? -Isaiah 40:8; 1 Peter 1:24, 25.
Next time: Do We Need A Hidden Bible Code?
Watchtower, 2000
Professor Brendan McKay, of the Department of Computer Science at the Australian National University, took up Drosnin's challenge and made extensive computer searches through the English text of Moby Dick. Using the same method described by Drosnin, McKay claims to have found "predictions" of the Assassinations of Indira Ghandi, Martin Luther King, Jr, John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln, and others. According to McKay, he discovered that Moby Dick also "prophesied' the murder of Yitzhak Rabin.
Returning to the Hebrew text of Genesis, Professor McKay and associates have also challenged the experimental results of Rips and his associates. The charge was that the results have less to do with an inspired coded message than with the researcher's method and approach-the fitting of data largely done at the discretion of the researchers. Scholarly debate on this point continues.
Another issue arises when claims are made that such encrypted messages were deliberately hidden in the "standard" or original Hebrew text. Rips and his fellow researchers say that they made their search with the "standard, generally accepted text of Genesis." Drosnin writes: "All Bibles in the original Hebrew language that now exist are the same letter for letter." But is this the case? Rather than a "standard" text, various editions of the Hebrew Bible are used today, based on different ancient manuscripts. While the Bible message does not differ, the individual manuscripts are not identical letter for letter.
Many translations today are based on the Leningrad C0dex-the oldest complete Hebrew Masoretic manuscript-copied about the year 1000 C.E. But Rips and Drosnin used a different text, namely the Koren. Shlomo Sternberg, an Orthodox rabbi and mathematician at Harvard University, explains that the Leningrad Codex "differs from the Koren edition used by Drosnin by 41 letters in Deuteronomy alone." The Dead Sea Scrolls include portions of the Bible text copied over 2,000 years ago. The spelling in these scrolls often differs considerably from later Masoretic texts. In some scrolls, certain letters were freely added to indicate vowel sounds, since vowel points had not yet been invented. In other scrolls, fewer letters were used. A comparison between all extant Bible manuscripts shows that the meaning of the Bible text remains intact. Yet, it also clearly indicates that the spelling and number of letters vary from text to text.
The search for a supposed hidden message depends upon an absolutely unchanging text. One letter altered would completely distort the sequence-and the message if there was one. God has preserved his message through the Bible. But he has not preserved each letter intact, as if he were obsessed with such trivial matters as spelling changes over the course of centuries. Does this not indicate that he has not buried a hidden message in the Bible? -Isaiah 40:8; 1 Peter 1:24, 25.
Next time: Do We Need A Hidden Bible Code?
Watchtower, 2000
7.23.2011
Does The Bible Have a Hidden Code?
Computers "Reveal" the Code
Before the computer age, man's ability to examine the Bible text in this way was limited. In August 1994, however, the journal Statistical Science published an article in which Eliyahu Rips of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and his fellow researchers made some startling claims. They explained that by removing all spaces between letters and using a sequence of equi-distance jumps between letters in the Hebrew text of Genesis, they had discovered the names of 34 famous rabbis encoded in the text, along with other information, such as their dates of birth or death, in close proximity to their names. After repeated testing,the researchers published their conclusion that the information encoded in Genesis was statistically beyond the possibility of chance-proof of inspired information deliberately hidden in code form in Genesis thousands of years ago.
Building on this method, journalist Drosnin ran his own tests, searching for hidden information in the first five books of the Hebrews Bible. According to Drosnin, he found the name of Yitzhak embedded in the Bible texts by a sequence of every 4,772 letters each he saw that Rabin's name (read vertically) intersected with a line (Deuteronomy 4:42, running horizontally) that Drosnin translated as "assassin that will assassinate."
Deuteronomy 4:42 actually speaks of a manslayer who has killed unintentionally. Thus, many have criticized Drosnin's arbitrary approach, claiming that his unscientific methods could be used to find similar messages in any text. But Drosnin stood his ground, issuing this challenge: "When my critics find a message about the assassination of a Prime Minister encrypted in [the novel] Moby Dick, I will believe them.
Next time: Proof of Inspiration?
Watchtower, 2000
Before the computer age, man's ability to examine the Bible text in this way was limited. In August 1994, however, the journal Statistical Science published an article in which Eliyahu Rips of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and his fellow researchers made some startling claims. They explained that by removing all spaces between letters and using a sequence of equi-distance jumps between letters in the Hebrew text of Genesis, they had discovered the names of 34 famous rabbis encoded in the text, along with other information, such as their dates of birth or death, in close proximity to their names. After repeated testing,the researchers published their conclusion that the information encoded in Genesis was statistically beyond the possibility of chance-proof of inspired information deliberately hidden in code form in Genesis thousands of years ago.
Building on this method, journalist Drosnin ran his own tests, searching for hidden information in the first five books of the Hebrews Bible. According to Drosnin, he found the name of Yitzhak embedded in the Bible texts by a sequence of every 4,772 letters each he saw that Rabin's name (read vertically) intersected with a line (Deuteronomy 4:42, running horizontally) that Drosnin translated as "assassin that will assassinate."
Deuteronomy 4:42 actually speaks of a manslayer who has killed unintentionally. Thus, many have criticized Drosnin's arbitrary approach, claiming that his unscientific methods could be used to find similar messages in any text. But Drosnin stood his ground, issuing this challenge: "When my critics find a message about the assassination of a Prime Minister encrypted in [the novel] Moby Dick, I will believe them.
Next time: Proof of Inspiration?
Watchtower, 2000
Does The Bible Have a Hidden Code?
ABOUT two years after the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yizhak Rabin in 1995, a journalist claimed that with the assistance of computer technology, he had discovered a prediction of that event hidden in the original Hebrew Bible text. the journalist, Michael drosnin, wrote that he had tried to warn the prime minister over a year before the assassination but to no avail.
Other books and articles have not been published claiming that this hidden code provides absolute proof of God's inspiration of the Bible. Does such a code exist? Should a hidden code be the basis for believing that the Bible is inspired of God?
A New Idea?
The idea of a hidden code in the Bible text is not new. it is a central concept in the Cabala, or traditional Jewish mysticism. According to Cabalistic teachers, the simple meaning of the Bible text is not its true meaning. They believe that God used the individual letters of the Hebrew Bible text as symbols, which when properly understood reveal a greater truth. In their view, each Hebrew letter and its position in the Bible text was set by God with a specific purpose in mind.
According to Jeffrey Satinover, a researcher of the Bible code, these Jewish mystics believe that the Hebrew letters used to record the creation account in Genesis hold incredible mystical power. He writes: "Genesis, in short, is not simply a description; it is the very instrument of the act of creation itself, a blueprint in the mind of God made manifest itself in physical form.
A 13th-century Cabalistic rabbi, Bachya ben Asher of Saragossa, Spain, wrote of a certain hidden information that was revealed to him by reading every 42nd letter in a portion of Genesis. This method of skipping over letters according to a particular sequence in an attempt to discover hidden messages is the basis for the modern Bible - code concept.
Next time: Computers "Reveal" the Code
Watchtower, 2000
Other books and articles have not been published claiming that this hidden code provides absolute proof of God's inspiration of the Bible. Does such a code exist? Should a hidden code be the basis for believing that the Bible is inspired of God?
A New Idea?
The idea of a hidden code in the Bible text is not new. it is a central concept in the Cabala, or traditional Jewish mysticism. According to Cabalistic teachers, the simple meaning of the Bible text is not its true meaning. They believe that God used the individual letters of the Hebrew Bible text as symbols, which when properly understood reveal a greater truth. In their view, each Hebrew letter and its position in the Bible text was set by God with a specific purpose in mind.
According to Jeffrey Satinover, a researcher of the Bible code, these Jewish mystics believe that the Hebrew letters used to record the creation account in Genesis hold incredible mystical power. He writes: "Genesis, in short, is not simply a description; it is the very instrument of the act of creation itself, a blueprint in the mind of God made manifest itself in physical form.
A 13th-century Cabalistic rabbi, Bachya ben Asher of Saragossa, Spain, wrote of a certain hidden information that was revealed to him by reading every 42nd letter in a portion of Genesis. This method of skipping over letters according to a particular sequence in an attempt to discover hidden messages is the basis for the modern Bible - code concept.
Next time: Computers "Reveal" the Code
Watchtower, 2000
7.22.2011
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
No Weapon Formed Against Us Will Succeed
Gamaliel's advice was sound, and we appreciate it when some speak out in our behalf. We also acknowledge that freedom of worship has been upheld through court decisions by fair-minded judges. Of course, our adherence to God's Word displeases Christendom's clergy and other leaders of Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. (Revelation 18:1-3) Though they and those influenced by them fight against us, we have this assurance: "Any weapon whatever that will be formed against you will have no success, and any tongue at all that will rise up against you in the judgment you will condemn. This is the hereditary possession of the servants of Jehovah, and their righteousness is -from me, ' is the utterance of Jehovah." -Isaiah 54:17.
Our enemies fight against us without cause, but we do not lose courage. Never will we allow those who hate our Bible message to intimidate us into compromising our faith. Though we expect our spiritual fight to intensify, we know the outcome. Like Jeremiah, we will experience the fulfillment of the prophetic words: "They will be certain to fight you, but they will not prevail against you, for 'I am with you,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'to deliver you.' " (Jeremiah 1:19) Yes, we know that fighters against God will not prevail!
Next time: Does the Bible Have a Hidden Code?
Watchtower, 2000
Gamaliel's advice was sound, and we appreciate it when some speak out in our behalf. We also acknowledge that freedom of worship has been upheld through court decisions by fair-minded judges. Of course, our adherence to God's Word displeases Christendom's clergy and other leaders of Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. (Revelation 18:1-3) Though they and those influenced by them fight against us, we have this assurance: "Any weapon whatever that will be formed against you will have no success, and any tongue at all that will rise up against you in the judgment you will condemn. This is the hereditary possession of the servants of Jehovah, and their righteousness is -from me, ' is the utterance of Jehovah." -Isaiah 54:17.
Our enemies fight against us without cause, but we do not lose courage. Never will we allow those who hate our Bible message to intimidate us into compromising our faith. Though we expect our spiritual fight to intensify, we know the outcome. Like Jeremiah, we will experience the fulfillment of the prophetic words: "They will be certain to fight you, but they will not prevail against you, for 'I am with you,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'to deliver you.' " (Jeremiah 1:19) Yes, we know that fighters against God will not prevail!
Next time: Does the Bible Have a Hidden Code?
Watchtower, 2000
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
Persecuted but Uncompromising
The foremost example in uncompromising devotion to Jehovah is Jesus, who was falsely accuse of sedition and of disturbing the established order. After examining the case of Jesus, Pilate was willing to release him. But the crowd, goaded on by the religious leaders, cried for Jesus to be impaled, although he was innocent. In place of him, they called for the release of Barabbas-a man imprisoned for sedition and murder! Pilate again tried to dissuade the unreasonable opposers, but he finally gave way to the public clamor. (Luke 23:2, 5, 14, 18-25) Though Jesus died on a stake, the heinous satanic attack on the innocent Son of God failed completely, for Jehovah resurrected Jesus and exalted him to His own right hand. And on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., through the glorified Jesus, holy spirit was poured out, establishing the Christian congregation-"a new creation." - 2 Corinthians 5:17; Acts 2:1-4.
Shortly therafter the religious element threatened the apostles, but those followers of Christ did not stop speaking about the things that they had seen and heard. Jesus' disciples prayed: "Jehovah, give attention to their threats, and grant your slaves to keep speaking you word with all boldness." (Acts 4:29) Jehovah answered their supplication by filling them with holy spirit and strengthening them to continue their fearless proclamation. Soon the apostles were again ordered to stop preaching, but Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29) Threats and arrests, and floggings could not deter them from expanding their Kingdom activity.
How did the religious rulers react? "They felt deeply cut and were wanting to do away with [the apostles]." However, a Law teacher by the name of Gamaliel, a Pharisee, was present, and he was esteemed by all the people. Putting the apostles outside the Sanhedrin hall for a short time, he advised those religious opposers: "Men of Israel, pay attention to yourselves as to what you intend to do respecting these men. . . . I say to you, do not meddle with these men, but let them alone; (because, if this scheme or this work is from men, it will be overthrown; but if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them;) otherwise, you may perhaps be found fighters actually against God." -Acts 5:33-39.
Next time: No Weapon Formed Against Us Will Succeed
Watchtower, 2000
The foremost example in uncompromising devotion to Jehovah is Jesus, who was falsely accuse of sedition and of disturbing the established order. After examining the case of Jesus, Pilate was willing to release him. But the crowd, goaded on by the religious leaders, cried for Jesus to be impaled, although he was innocent. In place of him, they called for the release of Barabbas-a man imprisoned for sedition and murder! Pilate again tried to dissuade the unreasonable opposers, but he finally gave way to the public clamor. (Luke 23:2, 5, 14, 18-25) Though Jesus died on a stake, the heinous satanic attack on the innocent Son of God failed completely, for Jehovah resurrected Jesus and exalted him to His own right hand. And on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., through the glorified Jesus, holy spirit was poured out, establishing the Christian congregation-"a new creation." - 2 Corinthians 5:17; Acts 2:1-4.
Shortly therafter the religious element threatened the apostles, but those followers of Christ did not stop speaking about the things that they had seen and heard. Jesus' disciples prayed: "Jehovah, give attention to their threats, and grant your slaves to keep speaking you word with all boldness." (Acts 4:29) Jehovah answered their supplication by filling them with holy spirit and strengthening them to continue their fearless proclamation. Soon the apostles were again ordered to stop preaching, but Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29) Threats and arrests, and floggings could not deter them from expanding their Kingdom activity.
How did the religious rulers react? "They felt deeply cut and were wanting to do away with [the apostles]." However, a Law teacher by the name of Gamaliel, a Pharisee, was present, and he was esteemed by all the people. Putting the apostles outside the Sanhedrin hall for a short time, he advised those religious opposers: "Men of Israel, pay attention to yourselves as to what you intend to do respecting these men. . . . I say to you, do not meddle with these men, but let them alone; (because, if this scheme or this work is from men, it will be overthrown; but if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them;) otherwise, you may perhaps be found fighters actually against God." -Acts 5:33-39.
Next time: No Weapon Formed Against Us Will Succeed
Watchtower, 2000
7.21.2011
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
They Look for a Pretext
Apostates, clergymen, and others cannot put up with our message from God's Word. Under pressure from religious quarters of Christendom, opposers look for a so-called legal way to justify their fight against us. What tactics are sometimes used? Well, what did conspirators do in attacking the prophet Daniel? At Daniel 6:4, 5, we read: "The high officials and the satraps themselves were constantly seeking to find some pretext against Daniel respecting the Kingdom; but there was no pretext or corrupt thing at all that they were able to find, forasmuch as he was trustworthy and no negligence or corrupt thing at all was found in him. Consequently these able-bodied men were saying: 'We shall find in this Daniel no pretext at all, except we have to find it against him in the law of God.' " Today, opposers likewise look for a pretext. They clamor about "dangerous cults" and try to pin this label on Jehovah's Witnesses. By misrepresentation, innuendo, and falsehood, they attack our worship and our adherence to godly principles.
In some lands, religious and political elements refuse to acknowledge that we practice "the form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God.' (James 1:27) Though our Christian activities are carried on in 234 lands, opposers claim that we are not a "known religion." Shortly before an international convention in 1998, an Athens newspaper quoted the Greek Orthodox clergy as claiming that "[Jehovah's Witnesses] are not a 'known religion, ' " despite the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights to the contrary. A few days later, another newspaper in the same city quoted a church spokesman as saying: "[Jehovah's Witnesses] cannot be 'a Christian congregation,' since they have nothing in common with the Christian faith in the person of Jesus Christ." This is amazing, for no other religious group puts more emphasis on imitating Jesus than do Jehovah's Witnesses!
We seek to defend and establish the good news by legal means. (Philippians 1:7) Moreover, we will not compromise or water down our firm adherence to God's standards of righteousness. (Titus 2:10, 12) Like Jeremiah, we 'gird up our hips and speak everything that Jehovah commands us,' not allowing fighters against God to strike us with any terror. (Jeremiah 1:17, 18) Jehovah's Holy Word has clearly marked out the right course for us to take. Never do we want to lean on the frail "arm of flesh" or seek "refuge in the shadows of Egypt," that is, this world. ( 2 Chronicles 32:8; Isaiah 30:3; 31:1-3) In waging spiritual warfare, we must continue to trust in Jehovah with all our heart, let him direct our steps, and not lean on our own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5-7) Unless we have Jehovah's support and he himself is guarding us,m all our work will be "to no avail." -Psalm 127:1.
Next time: Persecuted but Uncompromising
Watchtower, 2000
Apostates, clergymen, and others cannot put up with our message from God's Word. Under pressure from religious quarters of Christendom, opposers look for a so-called legal way to justify their fight against us. What tactics are sometimes used? Well, what did conspirators do in attacking the prophet Daniel? At Daniel 6:4, 5, we read: "The high officials and the satraps themselves were constantly seeking to find some pretext against Daniel respecting the Kingdom; but there was no pretext or corrupt thing at all that they were able to find, forasmuch as he was trustworthy and no negligence or corrupt thing at all was found in him. Consequently these able-bodied men were saying: 'We shall find in this Daniel no pretext at all, except we have to find it against him in the law of God.' " Today, opposers likewise look for a pretext. They clamor about "dangerous cults" and try to pin this label on Jehovah's Witnesses. By misrepresentation, innuendo, and falsehood, they attack our worship and our adherence to godly principles.
In some lands, religious and political elements refuse to acknowledge that we practice "the form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God.' (James 1:27) Though our Christian activities are carried on in 234 lands, opposers claim that we are not a "known religion." Shortly before an international convention in 1998, an Athens newspaper quoted the Greek Orthodox clergy as claiming that "[Jehovah's Witnesses] are not a 'known religion, ' " despite the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights to the contrary. A few days later, another newspaper in the same city quoted a church spokesman as saying: "[Jehovah's Witnesses] cannot be 'a Christian congregation,' since they have nothing in common with the Christian faith in the person of Jesus Christ." This is amazing, for no other religious group puts more emphasis on imitating Jesus than do Jehovah's Witnesses!
We seek to defend and establish the good news by legal means. (Philippians 1:7) Moreover, we will not compromise or water down our firm adherence to God's standards of righteousness. (Titus 2:10, 12) Like Jeremiah, we 'gird up our hips and speak everything that Jehovah commands us,' not allowing fighters against God to strike us with any terror. (Jeremiah 1:17, 18) Jehovah's Holy Word has clearly marked out the right course for us to take. Never do we want to lean on the frail "arm of flesh" or seek "refuge in the shadows of Egypt," that is, this world. ( 2 Chronicles 32:8; Isaiah 30:3; 31:1-3) In waging spiritual warfare, we must continue to trust in Jehovah with all our heart, let him direct our steps, and not lean on our own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5-7) Unless we have Jehovah's support and he himself is guarding us,m all our work will be "to no avail." -Psalm 127:1.
Next time: Persecuted but Uncompromising
Watchtower, 2000
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
On With the Preaching Work!
As the decades passed, the Kingdom preaching work opened up. Poland, though still under Communist rule, allowed the holding of one-day conventions in 1982. International conventions were held there in 1985. Huge international conventions followed in 1989, with thousands from Russia and Ukraine attending. That year Hungary and Poland granted Jehovah's Witnesses legal recognition. In the autumn of 1989, the Berlin Wall came down. A few months later, we received legal recognition in East Germany, and shortly thereafter an international convention was held in Berlin. And at the start of the final decade of the 20th century, efforts were under way to make personal contact with the brothers of in Russia. Some of the officials in Moscow were approached, and in 1991, Jehovah's Witnesses were granted legal registration. Since then the work has grown tremendously in Russia and in the Republics that were part of the former Soviet Union.
While persecution let up in some areas, it increased in others. In the 45 years following the close of the second world war, many lands refused to grant legal recognition to Jehovah's Witnesses. Additionally, bans were imposed on us or our activities in 23 lands in Africa, 9 in Asia, 8 in Europe, 3 in Latin America and 4 in certain island nations.
Jehovah's Witnesses in Malawi experienced savage persecution beginning in 1967. Because of their neutral stand as true Christians, our fellow believers there would not purchase political party cards. (John 17:16) Following a meeting of the Malawi Congress Party in 1972, there was a renewal of brutality. The brothers were driven from their homes and denied employment. Thousands fled the country to avoid being killed. But did the fighters against God and his people prevail? Not at all! After a reversal of circumstances, a peak of 43, 767 Kingdom publishers reported in Malawi in 1999, and over 120,000 attended district conventions there. A new branch office has been built in the capital city.
Next time: They Look for a Pretext
Watchtower, 2000
As the decades passed, the Kingdom preaching work opened up. Poland, though still under Communist rule, allowed the holding of one-day conventions in 1982. International conventions were held there in 1985. Huge international conventions followed in 1989, with thousands from Russia and Ukraine attending. That year Hungary and Poland granted Jehovah's Witnesses legal recognition. In the autumn of 1989, the Berlin Wall came down. A few months later, we received legal recognition in East Germany, and shortly thereafter an international convention was held in Berlin. And at the start of the final decade of the 20th century, efforts were under way to make personal contact with the brothers of in Russia. Some of the officials in Moscow were approached, and in 1991, Jehovah's Witnesses were granted legal registration. Since then the work has grown tremendously in Russia and in the Republics that were part of the former Soviet Union.
While persecution let up in some areas, it increased in others. In the 45 years following the close of the second world war, many lands refused to grant legal recognition to Jehovah's Witnesses. Additionally, bans were imposed on us or our activities in 23 lands in Africa, 9 in Asia, 8 in Europe, 3 in Latin America and 4 in certain island nations.
Jehovah's Witnesses in Malawi experienced savage persecution beginning in 1967. Because of their neutral stand as true Christians, our fellow believers there would not purchase political party cards. (John 17:16) Following a meeting of the Malawi Congress Party in 1972, there was a renewal of brutality. The brothers were driven from their homes and denied employment. Thousands fled the country to avoid being killed. But did the fighters against God and his people prevail? Not at all! After a reversal of circumstances, a peak of 43, 767 Kingdom publishers reported in Malawi in 1999, and over 120,000 attended district conventions there. A new branch office has been built in the capital city.
Next time: They Look for a Pretext
Watchtower, 2000
7.20.2011
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
Jehovah's Servants Under Attack
Jehovah's people have been under attack since early in the 20th century. In many lands, men of wicked intent have sought to hinder-yes, silence-the proclamation of the good news of God's Kingdom. They have been goaded on by our chief Adversary, the Devil, who "walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone." (1 Peter 5:8) After "the appointed times of the nations" ended in 1914, God installed his Son as earth's new King, with the command: "Go subduing in the midst of your enemies." (Luke 21:24;Psalm 110:2) Exercising his power, Christ ousted Satan from heaven and confined him to the vicinity of the earth. Knowing that his time is short, the Devil vents his wrath upon anointed Christians and their companions. (Revelation 12:9, 17) What have been the results of the repeated attacks by these fighters against God?
Anointed servants of Jehovah faced many tests of faith during World War I. they ridiculed and slandered, chased by mobs, and subjected to beatings. As Jesus had foretold, they became "objects of hatred by all the nations." (Matthew 24:9) Amid wars hysteria, enemies of God's Kingdom made use of a tactic that had been used against Jesus Christ. they falsely branded Jehovah's people seditious, and they struck at the very heart of God's visible organization. In May 1918, federal warrants were issued for the arrest of the Watchtower Society's president, J. F. Rutherford, and seven of his closest associates. These eight men were given heavy prison sentences and were sent to the federal penitentiary in Atlanta Georgia, U.S.A. Nine months later they were released. In May 1919 the circuit court of appeals ruled that the defendants had not had a new trial, but later the government withdrew the prosecution, with Brother Rutherford and his associates being completely exonerated. They resumed their activities, and conventions held at Cedar Point, Ohio, in 1919 and in 1922 gave the Kingdom preaching work renewed impetus.
Dictatorships emerged in the 1930's, and Germany, Italy and Japan united to form the Axis powers. Early in that decade, barbaric persecution was unleashed against God's people, notably in Nazi Germany. Bans were imposed. Homes were searched, and their occupants were arrested. Thousands were thrown into concentration camps because they refused to renounce their faith. The fight against God and his people was aimed at wiping out Jehovah's Witnesses in that totalitarian domain. When the Witnesses went to the courts in Germany to fight for their rights, the Reich's Ministry of Justice prepared a lengthy opinion to ensure that they would not succeed. It said: "The courts must not fail on account of merely apparent legal formalities, but must seek and find ways in spite of the formal difficulties, to fulfill their high duties." This meant that justice could not be had. The Nazis maintained that the activities of Jehovah's Witnesses were inimical, or hostile, and 'disturbed the National Socialistic construction.'
During World War II, bans and restrictions were imposed on God's people in Australia, Canada and other lands identified with the British Commonwealth -in Africa, Asia and islands of the Caribbean and of the Pacific. In the United States, influential enemies and misinformed people brought 'trouble framed by decree.' (Psalm 94:201) But flag-salute issues and community ordinances forbidding house-to-house preaching were fought in the courts. and favorable decisions in the United States built up a bulwark of support for freedom of worship. Thanks to Jehovah, enemy efforts did not prevail. When the war came to a close in Europe, the bans were removed. The thousands of Witnesses held captive in concentration camps were freed, but the fight was not over. Immediately after World War II, the Cold War set in. Eastern European nations brought further pressure on Jehovah's people Official action was taken to interfere with and stop our witnessing activities, halt the flow of Bible literature, stamp our our public assemblies. Many were imprisoned or sent to labor camps.
Next time: On With the Preaching Work!
Watchtower, 2000
Jehovah's people have been under attack since early in the 20th century. In many lands, men of wicked intent have sought to hinder-yes, silence-the proclamation of the good news of God's Kingdom. They have been goaded on by our chief Adversary, the Devil, who "walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone." (1 Peter 5:8) After "the appointed times of the nations" ended in 1914, God installed his Son as earth's new King, with the command: "Go subduing in the midst of your enemies." (Luke 21:24;Psalm 110:2) Exercising his power, Christ ousted Satan from heaven and confined him to the vicinity of the earth. Knowing that his time is short, the Devil vents his wrath upon anointed Christians and their companions. (Revelation 12:9, 17) What have been the results of the repeated attacks by these fighters against God?
Anointed servants of Jehovah faced many tests of faith during World War I. they ridiculed and slandered, chased by mobs, and subjected to beatings. As Jesus had foretold, they became "objects of hatred by all the nations." (Matthew 24:9) Amid wars hysteria, enemies of God's Kingdom made use of a tactic that had been used against Jesus Christ. they falsely branded Jehovah's people seditious, and they struck at the very heart of God's visible organization. In May 1918, federal warrants were issued for the arrest of the Watchtower Society's president, J. F. Rutherford, and seven of his closest associates. These eight men were given heavy prison sentences and were sent to the federal penitentiary in Atlanta Georgia, U.S.A. Nine months later they were released. In May 1919 the circuit court of appeals ruled that the defendants had not had a new trial, but later the government withdrew the prosecution, with Brother Rutherford and his associates being completely exonerated. They resumed their activities, and conventions held at Cedar Point, Ohio, in 1919 and in 1922 gave the Kingdom preaching work renewed impetus.
Dictatorships emerged in the 1930's, and Germany, Italy and Japan united to form the Axis powers. Early in that decade, barbaric persecution was unleashed against God's people, notably in Nazi Germany. Bans were imposed. Homes were searched, and their occupants were arrested. Thousands were thrown into concentration camps because they refused to renounce their faith. The fight against God and his people was aimed at wiping out Jehovah's Witnesses in that totalitarian domain. When the Witnesses went to the courts in Germany to fight for their rights, the Reich's Ministry of Justice prepared a lengthy opinion to ensure that they would not succeed. It said: "The courts must not fail on account of merely apparent legal formalities, but must seek and find ways in spite of the formal difficulties, to fulfill their high duties." This meant that justice could not be had. The Nazis maintained that the activities of Jehovah's Witnesses were inimical, or hostile, and 'disturbed the National Socialistic construction.'
During World War II, bans and restrictions were imposed on God's people in Australia, Canada and other lands identified with the British Commonwealth -in Africa, Asia and islands of the Caribbean and of the Pacific. In the United States, influential enemies and misinformed people brought 'trouble framed by decree.' (Psalm 94:201) But flag-salute issues and community ordinances forbidding house-to-house preaching were fought in the courts. and favorable decisions in the United States built up a bulwark of support for freedom of worship. Thanks to Jehovah, enemy efforts did not prevail. When the war came to a close in Europe, the bans were removed. The thousands of Witnesses held captive in concentration camps were freed, but the fight was not over. Immediately after World War II, the Cold War set in. Eastern European nations brought further pressure on Jehovah's people Official action was taken to interfere with and stop our witnessing activities, halt the flow of Bible literature, stamp our our public assemblies. Many were imprisoned or sent to labor camps.
Next time: On With the Preaching Work!
Watchtower, 2000
FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
JEHOVAH commissioned young Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations. (Jeremiah 1:5) This occurred during the reign of good King Josiah of Judah. Jeremiah's prophetic ministry continued through the turbulent period prior to Babylon's conquest of Jerusalem and into the taking of God's people into exile. -Jeremiah 1:1-3.
The judgment messages that Jeremiah was to declare were bound to stir up opposition. Therefore, God fortified him for what lay ahead. (Jeremiah 1:8-10) For instance, the prophet's spirit was bolstered by the words: "They will be certain to fight against you, but they will not prevail against you, for 'I am with you,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'to deliver you.' " (Jeremiah 1:19) Fighting against Jeremiah would mean fighting against God. Today, Jehovah has a prophetlike group of servants whose work is similar to that of Jeremiah. Like him, they boldly declare God's prophetic word. And this message affects all individuals and nations for good or for bad, depending on their reaction to it. As in Jeremiah's time, there are those who fight against God by opposing his servants and their divinely assigned activities.
Next time: Jehovah's Servants Under Attack
Watchtower, 2000
The judgment messages that Jeremiah was to declare were bound to stir up opposition. Therefore, God fortified him for what lay ahead. (Jeremiah 1:8-10) For instance, the prophet's spirit was bolstered by the words: "They will be certain to fight against you, but they will not prevail against you, for 'I am with you,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'to deliver you.' " (Jeremiah 1:19) Fighting against Jeremiah would mean fighting against God. Today, Jehovah has a prophetlike group of servants whose work is similar to that of Jeremiah. Like him, they boldly declare God's prophetic word. And this message affects all individuals and nations for good or for bad, depending on their reaction to it. As in Jeremiah's time, there are those who fight against God by opposing his servants and their divinely assigned activities.
Next time: Jehovah's Servants Under Attack
Watchtower, 2000
7.19.2011
PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
"The Light Has Come Into the World"
The Scriptures make it clear that Jesus Christ is now ruling as King. Because of his coming to power in 1914, wonderful prophecies will yet be fulfilled. To experience their fulfillment, we must prove to be meek ones who exercise faith in Jesus Christ, repenting of sinful works and of sins committed in ignorance. Of course, those who love darkness will not receive everlasting life. Jesus said: "This is the basis for judgment, that the light has come into the world but men have loved the darkness rather than the light, for their works were wicked. For he that practices vile things hates the light and does not come to the light, in order that his works may not be reproved. But he that does what is true comes to the light, in order that his works may be made manifest as having been worked in harmony with God." -John 3:19, 21.
Spiritual light has come into the world by means of Jesus, and listening to him is vital. Paul wrote: "God, who long ago spoke on may occasions and in many ways to our forefathers by means of the prophets, has at the end of these days sp0ken to us by means of a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things." (Hebrews 1:1, 2) What will happen if we spurn the salvation that God has made possible through his Son? Paul went on to say: "If the word spoken through angels proved to be firm, and every transgression and disobedient act received a retribution in harmony with justice; how shall we escape if we have neglected a salvation of such greatness in that it began to be spoken through our Lord and was verified for us by those who heard him, while God joined in bearing witness with signs as well as portents and various powerful works and with distributions of holy spirit according to his will?" (Hebrews 2:2-4) Yes, Jesus is central to the proclaiming of the prophetic word. -Revelation 19:10.
As noted, Peter said: "No prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation." Humans alone cannot come up with true prophecy, but we can't have full faith in all of God's prophecies. These originate with Jehovah God himself. By holy spirit he has enabled his servants to understand how Bible prophecies are being fulfilled. Indeed, we are grateful to Jehovah that we have seen the fulfillment of many prophecies since the year 1914. And we are absolutely sure that the remaining prophecies about the end of this wicked system of things will all be fulfilled. It is vital that we keep on paying attention to divine protections while we let our light shine. (Matthew 5:16) How thankful we are that Jehovah is causing 'light to flash up for us in the dense darkness' enveloping the earth today! -Isaiah 58:10.
Physical light enables us to see. It also makes possible the growth of crops that furnish us with food in great variety. We cannot get along without physical light. What about spiritual light? It gives us guidance and shows us the future as foretold in God's Word, the Bible. (Psalm 119: 105) Jehovah God lovingly 'sends out his light and his truth.' (Psalm 43:3) Surely we should show deep appreciation for such provisions. Let us therefore do our utmost to absorb the light of the glorious knowledge of God" so that it illuminates our figurative heart. - 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 1:18.
How blessed we are to know that in 19147, Jesus Christ, the Daystar, rose in all the universe and began to fulfill the transfiguration vision! Jehovah's Daystar is now on the scene, ready to carry out God's purpose in further fulfillment of the transfiguration -"the war of the great day of the Almighty." (Revelation 16:14, 16) After this old system has been swept away, Jehovah will fulfill his promise of "new heavens and a new earth" in which we can praise him forever as the Sovereign Lord of the universe and the God of true prophecy. (2 Peter 3:13) Until that grand day, let us keep on walking in divine light by paying attention to God's prophetic word.
Next time: FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
Watchtower, 2000
The Scriptures make it clear that Jesus Christ is now ruling as King. Because of his coming to power in 1914, wonderful prophecies will yet be fulfilled. To experience their fulfillment, we must prove to be meek ones who exercise faith in Jesus Christ, repenting of sinful works and of sins committed in ignorance. Of course, those who love darkness will not receive everlasting life. Jesus said: "This is the basis for judgment, that the light has come into the world but men have loved the darkness rather than the light, for their works were wicked. For he that practices vile things hates the light and does not come to the light, in order that his works may not be reproved. But he that does what is true comes to the light, in order that his works may be made manifest as having been worked in harmony with God." -John 3:19, 21.
Spiritual light has come into the world by means of Jesus, and listening to him is vital. Paul wrote: "God, who long ago spoke on may occasions and in many ways to our forefathers by means of the prophets, has at the end of these days sp0ken to us by means of a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things." (Hebrews 1:1, 2) What will happen if we spurn the salvation that God has made possible through his Son? Paul went on to say: "If the word spoken through angels proved to be firm, and every transgression and disobedient act received a retribution in harmony with justice; how shall we escape if we have neglected a salvation of such greatness in that it began to be spoken through our Lord and was verified for us by those who heard him, while God joined in bearing witness with signs as well as portents and various powerful works and with distributions of holy spirit according to his will?" (Hebrews 2:2-4) Yes, Jesus is central to the proclaiming of the prophetic word. -Revelation 19:10.
As noted, Peter said: "No prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation." Humans alone cannot come up with true prophecy, but we can't have full faith in all of God's prophecies. These originate with Jehovah God himself. By holy spirit he has enabled his servants to understand how Bible prophecies are being fulfilled. Indeed, we are grateful to Jehovah that we have seen the fulfillment of many prophecies since the year 1914. And we are absolutely sure that the remaining prophecies about the end of this wicked system of things will all be fulfilled. It is vital that we keep on paying attention to divine protections while we let our light shine. (Matthew 5:16) How thankful we are that Jehovah is causing 'light to flash up for us in the dense darkness' enveloping the earth today! -Isaiah 58:10.
Physical light enables us to see. It also makes possible the growth of crops that furnish us with food in great variety. We cannot get along without physical light. What about spiritual light? It gives us guidance and shows us the future as foretold in God's Word, the Bible. (Psalm 119: 105) Jehovah God lovingly 'sends out his light and his truth.' (Psalm 43:3) Surely we should show deep appreciation for such provisions. Let us therefore do our utmost to absorb the light of the glorious knowledge of God" so that it illuminates our figurative heart. - 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 1:18.
How blessed we are to know that in 19147, Jesus Christ, the Daystar, rose in all the universe and began to fulfill the transfiguration vision! Jehovah's Daystar is now on the scene, ready to carry out God's purpose in further fulfillment of the transfiguration -"the war of the great day of the Almighty." (Revelation 16:14, 16) After this old system has been swept away, Jehovah will fulfill his promise of "new heavens and a new earth" in which we can praise him forever as the Sovereign Lord of the universe and the God of true prophecy. (2 Peter 3:13) Until that grand day, let us keep on walking in divine light by paying attention to God's prophetic word.
Next time: FIGHTERS AGAINST GOD WILL NOT PREVAIL!
Watchtower, 2000
PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
How the Daystar Rises
Peter wrote: "You are doing well in paying attention to [the prophetic word] as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises." Who or what is the "daystar?" The word "daystar" occurs just once in the Bible, and it is similar in meaning to "morning star." Revelation 22:16 calls Jesus Christ "the bright morning star." At certain seasons of the year, such stars are the last ones to rise on the eastern horizon. They rise just before the sun appears, and they thus herald the dawn of a new day. Peter used the word "daystar" to refer to Jesus after He received Kingdom power. At that time, Jesus rose in all the universe,including our earth! As the Messianic Daystar, he heralds the dawning of a new day, or era, for obedient mankind.
Many Bible translations foster the idea that the apostle Peter's words recorded at 2 Peter 1:19 refer to the physical human heart. An adult heart weighs but 9-11 ounces. How could Jesus Christ - now a glorious immortal spirit creature in heaven - rise in these small human organs? (1Timothy 6:16) Of course, our figurative hearts are involved in this matter, for with them we pay attention to God's prophetic word. But look carefully at 2 Peter 1:19, and you will see that the New World Translation uses commas to set off the parenthetical phrase "until day dawns and a daystar rises" from earlier words in the verse and from the expression "in your hearts." This verse might be expressed in this way: "We have the prophetic word made more sure; and you are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, that is, in your hearts, until day dawns and a daystar rises.
What is the condition of the figurative hearts of sinful mankind in general? Why, their hearts are in spiritual darkness! If we are true Christians, however, it is as if we have a lamp shining in our hearts, which would otherwise be dark. As indicated by Peter's words, it would be by paying attention to God's illuminating prophetic word that genuine Christians would keep alert and enlightened to the dawn of a new day. They would be aware of the fact that the Daystar has risen,not in fleshly human hearts, but before all creation.
The Daystar has already risen! We can be sure of that by paying attention to Jesus' great prophecy regarding his presence. Today, we are experiencing its fulfillment in such events as unprecedented wars, famines, earthquakes, and the worldwide preaching of the good news. (Matthew 24:3-14) Though the difficult conditions that Jesus foretold also affect us as Christians, we are able to endure with peace and joy of heart. Why? Because we pay attention to God's prophetic word and have faith in what he promises for the future. We know that we are on the threshold of the best of times because we are very deep into "the time of the end!" (Daniel 12:4) The world is in the desperate straits foretold at Isaiah 60:2: "Look! darkness itself will cover the earth, and thick gloom the national groups." How can anyone find his way in this darkness? A person must humbly pay attention to God's prophetic word now, before it is too late. People of honest heart need to turn to Jehovah God, the Source of life and light. (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) Only by doing this can anyone have true enlightenment and the hope of enjoying the marvelous future that God has purposed for obedient mankind. -Revelation 21:1-5.
Next time: "The Light Has Come Into the World"
Watchtower, 2000
Peter wrote: "You are doing well in paying attention to [the prophetic word] as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises." Who or what is the "daystar?" The word "daystar" occurs just once in the Bible, and it is similar in meaning to "morning star." Revelation 22:16 calls Jesus Christ "the bright morning star." At certain seasons of the year, such stars are the last ones to rise on the eastern horizon. They rise just before the sun appears, and they thus herald the dawn of a new day. Peter used the word "daystar" to refer to Jesus after He received Kingdom power. At that time, Jesus rose in all the universe,including our earth! As the Messianic Daystar, he heralds the dawning of a new day, or era, for obedient mankind.
Many Bible translations foster the idea that the apostle Peter's words recorded at 2 Peter 1:19 refer to the physical human heart. An adult heart weighs but 9-11 ounces. How could Jesus Christ - now a glorious immortal spirit creature in heaven - rise in these small human organs? (1Timothy 6:16) Of course, our figurative hearts are involved in this matter, for with them we pay attention to God's prophetic word. But look carefully at 2 Peter 1:19, and you will see that the New World Translation uses commas to set off the parenthetical phrase "until day dawns and a daystar rises" from earlier words in the verse and from the expression "in your hearts." This verse might be expressed in this way: "We have the prophetic word made more sure; and you are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, that is, in your hearts, until day dawns and a daystar rises.
What is the condition of the figurative hearts of sinful mankind in general? Why, their hearts are in spiritual darkness! If we are true Christians, however, it is as if we have a lamp shining in our hearts, which would otherwise be dark. As indicated by Peter's words, it would be by paying attention to God's illuminating prophetic word that genuine Christians would keep alert and enlightened to the dawn of a new day. They would be aware of the fact that the Daystar has risen,not in fleshly human hearts, but before all creation.
The Daystar has already risen! We can be sure of that by paying attention to Jesus' great prophecy regarding his presence. Today, we are experiencing its fulfillment in such events as unprecedented wars, famines, earthquakes, and the worldwide preaching of the good news. (Matthew 24:3-14) Though the difficult conditions that Jesus foretold also affect us as Christians, we are able to endure with peace and joy of heart. Why? Because we pay attention to God's prophetic word and have faith in what he promises for the future. We know that we are on the threshold of the best of times because we are very deep into "the time of the end!" (Daniel 12:4) The world is in the desperate straits foretold at Isaiah 60:2: "Look! darkness itself will cover the earth, and thick gloom the national groups." How can anyone find his way in this darkness? A person must humbly pay attention to God's prophetic word now, before it is too late. People of honest heart need to turn to Jehovah God, the Source of life and light. (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) Only by doing this can anyone have true enlightenment and the hope of enjoying the marvelous future that God has purposed for obedient mankind. -Revelation 21:1-5.
Next time: "The Light Has Come Into the World"
Watchtower, 2000
7.18.2011
PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
The Transfiguration Builds Faith
The transfiguration was a prophetic event. Said Jesus: "The Son of man is destine to come in the glory of his Father with his angels . . . Truly I say to you that there are some of those standing here that will not taste death at all until first they see the Son of man coming in his Kingdom." (Matthew 16:27, 28) Did some of the apostles actually see Jesus coming in his Kingdom? Matthew 17:1-7 states: "Six days later Jesus took Peter and James and John his brother along and brought them up into a lofty mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them." What a dramatic event! "His face shone as the sun,and his outer garments became brilliant as the light. And, look! There appeared to them Moses and Elijah, conversing with him." Also, " a bright cloud overshadowed them," and they heard God's own voice saying: "This is my Son whom I have approved; listen to him.' At hearing this the disciples fell upon their faces and became very much afraid. Then Jesus came near and, touching them, said: 'Get up and have no fear.' "
This awesome event likely took place on one of the rides of Mount Hermon, where Jesus and the apostles spent the night. The transfiguration evidently occurred at night, making it especially vivid. One reason Jesus called it a vision was that long-dead Moses and Elijah were not literally present. Only Christ was actually there. (Matthew 17:8, 9) Such a dazzling display gave Peter, James and John a spectacular foregleam of Jesus' glorious presence in Kingdom power. Moses and Elijah find parallels in Jesus' anointed heirs, and the vision powerfully reinforced his testimony about the Kingdom and his future kingship.
The transfiguration helped to strengthen the faith of the three apostles who were to play a leading role in the Christian congregation. Christ's shining face, his glistening garments, and God's own voice declaring that Jesus was His beloved Son to whom they should listen - all of this served its purpose most effectively. But the apostles were to relate the vision to no one until Jesus was resurrected. Some 32 years later, this vision was till vivid in Peter's mind. Pointing to it and its significance, he wrote: "No, it was not by following artfully contrived false stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, but it was by having become eyewitnesses of his magnificence. For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when words such as these were borne to him by the magnificent glory: ' This is my Son, my beloved, whom I myself have approved.' Yes, these words we heard borne from heaven while we were with him in the holy mountain." - 2 Peter 1:16-18.
Of utmost importance was God's proclamation: "This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved; listen to him." This statement focuses attention on Jesus as God's enthroned King, to whom all creation must render obedience. the overshadowing cloud indicated that the fulfillment of this vision would be in visible. It would be discernible only with the eyes of understanding on the part of those who recognize "the sign" of Jesus' invisible presence in Kingdom power. (Matthew 24:3) In fact, Jesus' instruction not to tell the vision to anyone until he had risen from the dead shows that his exaltation and glorification would come after his resurrection.
After referring to the transfiguration, Peter stated: "Consequently we have the prophetic word made more sure; and you are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises in your hearts. For you know this first, that no prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation. For prophecy was at no time brought by man's will, but men spoke from God as they were borne along by holy spirit." (2 Peter 1:19-21) The transfiguration underscores the reliability of God's prophetic word. We must pay attention to that word and not to "artfully contrived false stories" that do not have divine backing or approval. Our faith in the prophetic word should be strenghtened by the transfiguration because that visionary foreview of Jesus' glory and Kingdom power has become a reality. Yes, we have undeniable evidence that Christ is present today as a powerful heavenly King.
Next time: How the Daystar Rises
Watchtower, 2000
The transfiguration was a prophetic event. Said Jesus: "The Son of man is destine to come in the glory of his Father with his angels . . . Truly I say to you that there are some of those standing here that will not taste death at all until first they see the Son of man coming in his Kingdom." (Matthew 16:27, 28) Did some of the apostles actually see Jesus coming in his Kingdom? Matthew 17:1-7 states: "Six days later Jesus took Peter and James and John his brother along and brought them up into a lofty mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them." What a dramatic event! "His face shone as the sun,and his outer garments became brilliant as the light. And, look! There appeared to them Moses and Elijah, conversing with him." Also, " a bright cloud overshadowed them," and they heard God's own voice saying: "This is my Son whom I have approved; listen to him.' At hearing this the disciples fell upon their faces and became very much afraid. Then Jesus came near and, touching them, said: 'Get up and have no fear.' "
This awesome event likely took place on one of the rides of Mount Hermon, where Jesus and the apostles spent the night. The transfiguration evidently occurred at night, making it especially vivid. One reason Jesus called it a vision was that long-dead Moses and Elijah were not literally present. Only Christ was actually there. (Matthew 17:8, 9) Such a dazzling display gave Peter, James and John a spectacular foregleam of Jesus' glorious presence in Kingdom power. Moses and Elijah find parallels in Jesus' anointed heirs, and the vision powerfully reinforced his testimony about the Kingdom and his future kingship.
The transfiguration helped to strengthen the faith of the three apostles who were to play a leading role in the Christian congregation. Christ's shining face, his glistening garments, and God's own voice declaring that Jesus was His beloved Son to whom they should listen - all of this served its purpose most effectively. But the apostles were to relate the vision to no one until Jesus was resurrected. Some 32 years later, this vision was till vivid in Peter's mind. Pointing to it and its significance, he wrote: "No, it was not by following artfully contrived false stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, but it was by having become eyewitnesses of his magnificence. For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when words such as these were borne to him by the magnificent glory: ' This is my Son, my beloved, whom I myself have approved.' Yes, these words we heard borne from heaven while we were with him in the holy mountain." - 2 Peter 1:16-18.
Of utmost importance was God's proclamation: "This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved; listen to him." This statement focuses attention on Jesus as God's enthroned King, to whom all creation must render obedience. the overshadowing cloud indicated that the fulfillment of this vision would be in visible. It would be discernible only with the eyes of understanding on the part of those who recognize "the sign" of Jesus' invisible presence in Kingdom power. (Matthew 24:3) In fact, Jesus' instruction not to tell the vision to anyone until he had risen from the dead shows that his exaltation and glorification would come after his resurrection.
After referring to the transfiguration, Peter stated: "Consequently we have the prophetic word made more sure; and you are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises in your hearts. For you know this first, that no prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation. For prophecy was at no time brought by man's will, but men spoke from God as they were borne along by holy spirit." (2 Peter 1:19-21) The transfiguration underscores the reliability of God's prophetic word. We must pay attention to that word and not to "artfully contrived false stories" that do not have divine backing or approval. Our faith in the prophetic word should be strenghtened by the transfiguration because that visionary foreview of Jesus' glory and Kingdom power has become a reality. Yes, we have undeniable evidence that Christ is present today as a powerful heavenly King.
Next time: How the Daystar Rises
Watchtower, 2000
PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
"We have the prophetic made more sure; and you are doing well in paying attention to it." -2 Peter 1:19
FOR centuries, false messiahs have tried to predict the future. In the fifth century C.E., a man who called himself Moses (not the ones who led the Jews out of Egypt, another one) convinced Jews on the island of Crete that he was the messiah and would deliver them up from oppression. On the day set for their liberation, they followed him to a high point overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. He said that they had only to cast themselves into the sea, and it would part before them. A great many who plunged into the waters drowned, and that false messiah fled from the scene.
In the 12th century, a "messiah" emerged in Yemen. The caliph, or ruler, asked him for a sign of his messiahship. This "messiah" proposed that the caliph have him beheaded. He prophesied a swift resurrection that would serve as a sign. The caliph agreed to the plan -and that was the end of that messiah."
False messiahs and their prophecies are total failures, but paying attention to God's prophetic word never leads to disappointment. The true Messiah, Jesus Christ, was the living fulfillment of may Bible prophecies. Quoting Isaiah's prophecy, for instance, the Gospel writer Matthew wrote: " 'O land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, along the road of the sea, on the other side of the Jordan, Galilee of the nations! the people sitting in darkness saw a great light,and as for those sitting in a region of deathly shadow, light rose upon them. ' From that time on Jesus commenced preaching and saying: 'Repent, you people, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.' " (Matthew 4:15-17; Isaiah 9:1, 2) Jesus was that "great light," and his ministry proved that he was the Prophet foretold by Moses. Those refusing to listen to Jesus would be destroyed. -Deuteronomy 18:18, 19; Acts 3:22, 23.
Jesus also fulfilled the prophetic words of Isaiah 53:12: "He poured out his soul to the very death,and it was with the transgressors that he was counted in; and he himself carried the very sin of many people, and for the transgressors he proceeded to interpose." Aware that he would soon give his human life as a ransom, Jesus strengthened the faith of his disciples. (Mark 10:45) He did this in an outstanding way through the transfiguration.
Next time: The Transfiguration Builds Faith
Watchtower, 2000
FOR centuries, false messiahs have tried to predict the future. In the fifth century C.E., a man who called himself Moses (not the ones who led the Jews out of Egypt, another one) convinced Jews on the island of Crete that he was the messiah and would deliver them up from oppression. On the day set for their liberation, they followed him to a high point overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. He said that they had only to cast themselves into the sea, and it would part before them. A great many who plunged into the waters drowned, and that false messiah fled from the scene.
In the 12th century, a "messiah" emerged in Yemen. The caliph, or ruler, asked him for a sign of his messiahship. This "messiah" proposed that the caliph have him beheaded. He prophesied a swift resurrection that would serve as a sign. The caliph agreed to the plan -and that was the end of that messiah."
False messiahs and their prophecies are total failures, but paying attention to God's prophetic word never leads to disappointment. The true Messiah, Jesus Christ, was the living fulfillment of may Bible prophecies. Quoting Isaiah's prophecy, for instance, the Gospel writer Matthew wrote: " 'O land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, along the road of the sea, on the other side of the Jordan, Galilee of the nations! the people sitting in darkness saw a great light,and as for those sitting in a region of deathly shadow, light rose upon them. ' From that time on Jesus commenced preaching and saying: 'Repent, you people, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.' " (Matthew 4:15-17; Isaiah 9:1, 2) Jesus was that "great light," and his ministry proved that he was the Prophet foretold by Moses. Those refusing to listen to Jesus would be destroyed. -Deuteronomy 18:18, 19; Acts 3:22, 23.
Jesus also fulfilled the prophetic words of Isaiah 53:12: "He poured out his soul to the very death,and it was with the transgressors that he was counted in; and he himself carried the very sin of many people, and for the transgressors he proceeded to interpose." Aware that he would soon give his human life as a ransom, Jesus strengthened the faith of his disciples. (Mark 10:45) He did this in an outstanding way through the transfiguration.
Next time: The Transfiguration Builds Faith
Watchtower, 2000
7.17.2011
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
God's Spirit and You
When an individual responds favorably to the good news, conforms his life to God's standards, and expresses faith in the ransom provision, the way is opened for a clean standing with God . . .puts his holy spirit in you ." -1 Thessalonians 4:7, 8; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
Having God's spirit result in many fine blessings. What kind of blessings? For one thing, God's inspired Word says: "The fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, [and] self-control." (Galatians 5:22, 23) Therefore, God's holy spirit is a powerful force for good, enabling one to display godly qualities.
Additionally, if you read the Bible and apply what you learn, God's spirit can help you to grow in wisdom, knowledge, insight, judgment and thinking ability. King Solomon received "wisdom and understanding in very great measure and a broadness of heart" because he sought to please God rather than men. (1 Kings 4:29) Since Jehovah gave holy spirit to Solomon, surely he will not withhold his holy spirit from those seeking to please him today.
God's holy spirit also helps Christians to combat Satan and the demons, this wicked system of things, and the sinful tendencies of their fallen flesh. How is that possible? The apostle Paul answers: "For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me." (Philippians 4:13) Holy spirit may not remove trials or temptations; it can, however, help you to endure them. By relying on God's spirit, we can receive "power beyond what is normal" to deal with any trouble or distress. -2 Corinthians 4:7; 1 Corinthians 10:13.
When you consider all the evidence, there is little doubt that God's holy spirit is operating today. Jehovah's spirit energizes his servants to bear witness ab out his grand purposes. It continues to reveal flashes of spiritual light,and it fortifies our faith, helping us to remain loyal to our Creator. How thankful we can be that God has remained true to his promise by supplying holy spirit to his faithful servants today!
Next time: PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
Watchtower, 2000
When an individual responds favorably to the good news, conforms his life to God's standards, and expresses faith in the ransom provision, the way is opened for a clean standing with God . . .puts his holy spirit in you ." -1 Thessalonians 4:7, 8; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
Having God's spirit result in many fine blessings. What kind of blessings? For one thing, God's inspired Word says: "The fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, [and] self-control." (Galatians 5:22, 23) Therefore, God's holy spirit is a powerful force for good, enabling one to display godly qualities.
Additionally, if you read the Bible and apply what you learn, God's spirit can help you to grow in wisdom, knowledge, insight, judgment and thinking ability. King Solomon received "wisdom and understanding in very great measure and a broadness of heart" because he sought to please God rather than men. (1 Kings 4:29) Since Jehovah gave holy spirit to Solomon, surely he will not withhold his holy spirit from those seeking to please him today.
God's holy spirit also helps Christians to combat Satan and the demons, this wicked system of things, and the sinful tendencies of their fallen flesh. How is that possible? The apostle Paul answers: "For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me." (Philippians 4:13) Holy spirit may not remove trials or temptations; it can, however, help you to endure them. By relying on God's spirit, we can receive "power beyond what is normal" to deal with any trouble or distress. -2 Corinthians 4:7; 1 Corinthians 10:13.
When you consider all the evidence, there is little doubt that God's holy spirit is operating today. Jehovah's spirit energizes his servants to bear witness ab out his grand purposes. It continues to reveal flashes of spiritual light,and it fortifies our faith, helping us to remain loyal to our Creator. How thankful we can be that God has remained true to his promise by supplying holy spirit to his faithful servants today!
Next time: PAY ATTENTION TO GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD
Watchtower, 2000
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
"You Will Be Witnesses of Me"
Jesus identified yet another manifestation of God's holy spirit when he told his disciples: "You will receive power when the holy spirit arrives upon you, and you will be witnesses of me . . . to the most distant part of the earth." (Acts 1:8) Jesus' promise to infuse his disciples with "power" and "holy spirit" in order to carry out their God-assigned work still applies today.
As a group, Jehovah's Witnesses are well-known for their preaching activities. Indeed, Jehovah's Witnesses speak the message of truth in over 230 lands and island groups. Under every imaginable condition, including risking their lives in war-torn areas, they courageously raise their voices in support of God's Kingdom. Their zeal for the Christians ministry gives powerful evidence that holy spirit is in operation today. And it is obvious that Jehovah God is blessing their efforts.
Last year, for example, well over one billion hours were devoted to preaching the good news of God's Kingdom. With what result? Some 323, 439 people symbolized their dedication to God by submitting themselves to water baptism. In addition, 4,433,884 weekly home Bible studies were conducted with newly interested ones. All told, 24,607,741 books, 631,162,309 magazines, and 63,495,728 brochures and booklets were placed. What a powerful testimony to God's spirit in action!
Next time: God's Spirit and You
Watchtower, 2000
Jesus identified yet another manifestation of God's holy spirit when he told his disciples: "You will receive power when the holy spirit arrives upon you, and you will be witnesses of me . . . to the most distant part of the earth." (Acts 1:8) Jesus' promise to infuse his disciples with "power" and "holy spirit" in order to carry out their God-assigned work still applies today.
As a group, Jehovah's Witnesses are well-known for their preaching activities. Indeed, Jehovah's Witnesses speak the message of truth in over 230 lands and island groups. Under every imaginable condition, including risking their lives in war-torn areas, they courageously raise their voices in support of God's Kingdom. Their zeal for the Christians ministry gives powerful evidence that holy spirit is in operation today. And it is obvious that Jehovah God is blessing their efforts.
Last year, for example, well over one billion hours were devoted to preaching the good news of God's Kingdom. With what result? Some 323, 439 people symbolized their dedication to God by submitting themselves to water baptism. In addition, 4,433,884 weekly home Bible studies were conducted with newly interested ones. All told, 24,607,741 books, 631,162,309 magazines, and 63,495,728 brochures and booklets were placed. What a powerful testimony to God's spirit in action!
Next time: God's Spirit and You
Watchtower, 2000
7.16.2011
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
Conclusion of Holy Spirit in Our Day
Through the pages of Zion's Watchtower and Herald of Christ's Presence, Russell and his associates courageously denounced false religious doctrines that misrepresented God. They discerned that - contrary to popular religious opinion - the soul is mortal, that at death we go to the grave, and that Jehovah is the only true God and therefore not part of a Trinity.
As you can imagine, though, such exposing of false teachings angered the clergy of Christendom. Eager to hold on to their influential positions, many Catholic and Protestant clergymen organized campaigns aimed at discrediting Russell. But he and his associates did not give up. confidently, they looked to God's spirit for guidance. "Our Lord's assurance," said Russell, "is that . . .the holy spirit of the Father, sent on account of and at the instance of Jesus our Redeemer, Mediator and Head, will be our instructor." And instruct it did! These sincere Bible Students continued to take in the pure waters of truth from the Bible and proclaim them worldwide. -Revelation 22:17.
The modern-day organization of Jehovah's Witnesses has remained sensitive to the leadings of God's holy spirit for well over a century now. As Jehovah's spirit progressively enlightens their spiritual vision, the Witnesses willingly make the needed adjustment to conform to updated understanding. - Proverbs 4:18.
Next time: "You Will Be Witnesses of Me"
Watchtower, 2000
Through the pages of Zion's Watchtower and Herald of Christ's Presence, Russell and his associates courageously denounced false religious doctrines that misrepresented God. They discerned that - contrary to popular religious opinion - the soul is mortal, that at death we go to the grave, and that Jehovah is the only true God and therefore not part of a Trinity.
As you can imagine, though, such exposing of false teachings angered the clergy of Christendom. Eager to hold on to their influential positions, many Catholic and Protestant clergymen organized campaigns aimed at discrediting Russell. But he and his associates did not give up. confidently, they looked to God's spirit for guidance. "Our Lord's assurance," said Russell, "is that . . .the holy spirit of the Father, sent on account of and at the instance of Jesus our Redeemer, Mediator and Head, will be our instructor." And instruct it did! These sincere Bible Students continued to take in the pure waters of truth from the Bible and proclaim them worldwide. -Revelation 22:17.
The modern-day organization of Jehovah's Witnesses has remained sensitive to the leadings of God's holy spirit for well over a century now. As Jehovah's spirit progressively enlightens their spiritual vision, the Witnesses willingly make the needed adjustment to conform to updated understanding. - Proverbs 4:18.
Next time: "You Will Be Witnesses of Me"
Watchtower, 2000
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
Holy Spirit in Our Day
Holy spirit has likewise been working in behalf of true Christians in our day. This became evident to a small group of Bible students in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, U.S.A., in the later half of the 19th century. These earnest students of the Bible yearned to know "the truth." -John 8:32; 16:13.
One member of this group, Charles Taze Russell, said regarding his quest for Scriptural truth: "I prayed . . . that I might be enabled to rid my heart and mind of any prejudice that might stand in the way and be led of his spirit into the proper understanding." God blessed this humble prayer.
As Russell and his associates diligently searched the Scriptures, a number of things became clear. "We found that for centuries," explained Russell, "various sects and parties had split up the Bible doctrines amongst them, blending them with more or less of human speculation and error." This resulted in what he called "the misplacement of the truth." Indeed, Scriptural truths were buried under a collection of pagan teachings that had infiltrated Christendom over the centuries. But Russell was determined to know and declare the truth.
Next time: Conclusion of Holy Spirit in Our Day
Watchtower, 2000
Holy spirit has likewise been working in behalf of true Christians in our day. This became evident to a small group of Bible students in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, U.S.A., in the later half of the 19th century. These earnest students of the Bible yearned to know "the truth." -John 8:32; 16:13.
One member of this group, Charles Taze Russell, said regarding his quest for Scriptural truth: "I prayed . . . that I might be enabled to rid my heart and mind of any prejudice that might stand in the way and be led of his spirit into the proper understanding." God blessed this humble prayer.
As Russell and his associates diligently searched the Scriptures, a number of things became clear. "We found that for centuries," explained Russell, "various sects and parties had split up the Bible doctrines amongst them, blending them with more or less of human speculation and error." This resulted in what he called "the misplacement of the truth." Indeed, Scriptural truths were buried under a collection of pagan teachings that had infiltrated Christendom over the centuries. But Russell was determined to know and declare the truth.
Next time: Conclusion of Holy Spirit in Our Day
Watchtower, 2000
7.15.2011
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
Continue with "The Spirit of the Truth"
How did holy spirit operate as a teacher? God's spirit opened the disciples' minds to things that they had previously heard from Jesus but had not fully understood. For example, the apostles knew that during his trial, Jesus told the Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate: "My kingdom is no part of this world." Yet, at the time of Jesus' ascension to heaven over 40 days later, the apostles still had the mistaken view that the Kingdom would be established here on the earth. (John 18:36; Acts1:6) Apparently, the apostles were not able to grasp fully the meaning of Jesus' words until after the outpouring of God's holy spirit at Pentecost 33 C.E.
God's spirit also served as a remembrancer by bringing back to mind the various teachings of Jesus. Prophecies regarding Christ's death and resurrection, for instance, took on new meaning with the aid of holy spirit. (Matthew 26:21; John 12:16) Recalling Jesus' teachings enabled the apostles boldly to defend their position before kings, magistrates and religious leaders. -Mark 13:99-11; Acts 4:5-20.
Additionally, God's holy spirit helped to direct early Christians to fruitful territory in the ministry. (Acts 16:6-10) God's spirit also moved early Christians to share in writing God's Word, the Bible, for the benefit of all humankind. (2 Timothy 3:16) Clearly, then, holy spirit was active in a variety of ways in the first century. It was not provided solely to perform miracles.
Next time: Holy Spirit in Our Day
Watchtower,2000
How did holy spirit operate as a teacher? God's spirit opened the disciples' minds to things that they had previously heard from Jesus but had not fully understood. For example, the apostles knew that during his trial, Jesus told the Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate: "My kingdom is no part of this world." Yet, at the time of Jesus' ascension to heaven over 40 days later, the apostles still had the mistaken view that the Kingdom would be established here on the earth. (John 18:36; Acts1:6) Apparently, the apostles were not able to grasp fully the meaning of Jesus' words until after the outpouring of God's holy spirit at Pentecost 33 C.E.
God's spirit also served as a remembrancer by bringing back to mind the various teachings of Jesus. Prophecies regarding Christ's death and resurrection, for instance, took on new meaning with the aid of holy spirit. (Matthew 26:21; John 12:16) Recalling Jesus' teachings enabled the apostles boldly to defend their position before kings, magistrates and religious leaders. -Mark 13:99-11; Acts 4:5-20.
Additionally, God's holy spirit helped to direct early Christians to fruitful territory in the ministry. (Acts 16:6-10) God's spirit also moved early Christians to share in writing God's Word, the Bible, for the benefit of all humankind. (2 Timothy 3:16) Clearly, then, holy spirit was active in a variety of ways in the first century. It was not provided solely to perform miracles.
Next time: Holy Spirit in Our Day
Watchtower,2000
How Does God's Spirit Operate Today?
"The Spirit of the Truth"
One operation of God's holy spirit is to inform, to illuminate,to reveal truths. Shortly before his death, Jesus told his disciples: "I have many things yet to say to you, but you are not able to bear them at present. However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth." -John 16:12, 13
"The spirit of the truth" was poured out at Pentecost 33 C.E. when about 120 disciples who gathered in an upper room in Jerusalem were baptized with holy spirit. (Acts 2:1-4) The apostle Peter was among those present for that annual festival. Filled with holy spirit, Peter "stood up" and amplified, or clarified, certain truths about Jesus. He recounted, for example, how "Jesus of Nazarene" was "exalted to the right hand of God." (Acts 2:14, 22, 33) God's spirit also moved Peter to declare boldly to his Jewish listeners: "Let all the house of Israel know for a certainty that God made both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you impaled." (Acts 2:36) As a result of Peter's spirit-inspired message, about three thousand persons "embraced his word heartily" and got baptized. In this way, God's holy spirit helped to guide them into the truth. -Acts 2:37-41.
God's holy spirit also served as a teacher and remembrancer. Jesus said: "The helper, the holy spirit, which the Father will send in my name, that one will teach you all things and bring back to your minds all the things I told you." -John 14:26.
Next time: Continue with "The Spirit of the Truth"
Watchtower, 2000
One operation of God's holy spirit is to inform, to illuminate,to reveal truths. Shortly before his death, Jesus told his disciples: "I have many things yet to say to you, but you are not able to bear them at present. However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth." -John 16:12, 13
"The spirit of the truth" was poured out at Pentecost 33 C.E. when about 120 disciples who gathered in an upper room in Jerusalem were baptized with holy spirit. (Acts 2:1-4) The apostle Peter was among those present for that annual festival. Filled with holy spirit, Peter "stood up" and amplified, or clarified, certain truths about Jesus. He recounted, for example, how "Jesus of Nazarene" was "exalted to the right hand of God." (Acts 2:14, 22, 33) God's spirit also moved Peter to declare boldly to his Jewish listeners: "Let all the house of Israel know for a certainty that God made both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you impaled." (Acts 2:36) As a result of Peter's spirit-inspired message, about three thousand persons "embraced his word heartily" and got baptized. In this way, God's holy spirit helped to guide them into the truth. -Acts 2:37-41.
God's holy spirit also served as a teacher and remembrancer. Jesus said: "The helper, the holy spirit, which the Father will send in my name, that one will teach you all things and bring back to your minds all the things I told you." -John 14:26.
Next time: Continue with "The Spirit of the Truth"
Watchtower, 2000
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