HELPING PEOPLE TO DRAW CLOSE TO JEHOVAH

The Purpose of Our Preaching

In this "time of the end," Jesus' disciples have the commission to spread "true knowledge"  concerning "this good news of the kingdom." (Daniel 12:4; Matthew 24:14) Their mission coincides with that of the angel who "had everlasting good news to declare as glad tidings to those who dwell on the earth, and to every nation and tribe and tongue and people."  (Revelation 14:6)  In this world that is so preoccupied with mundane matters, generally the most effective way to interest people in God's Kingdom and help them to draw close to Jehovah is to tell them about the hope of everlasting life on a paradise earth.  While this is understandable, those who associate with God's people solely to gain entrance into Paradise do not have their feet firmly set on the narrow road leading to life. -Matthew 7:13, 14.

Jesus stated:  "This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ."  (John 17:3) The angel flying in midheaven declares "everlasting  good news" and tells those dwelling on the earth:  "Fear God and give him glory,  because the hour of judgment by him has arrived, and so worship the One who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and fountains of waters."  (Revelation 14:7) It follows that the ultimate purpose of our preaching the good news is to help people to draw close to Jehovah through Christ Jesus.

Next time: Our Role in Jehovah's Work

Watchtower, 2000