Continue with FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
"Disobedient to parents." (2 Timothy 3:2) Present-day parents, teachers and others have firsthand evidence that many children are disrespectful and disobedient. Some of theses youngsters are either reacting to or imitating their parents' misbehavior. Increasing numbers of children are losing faith in-and rebelling against-school,the law, religion and their parents. "As a trend," says one veteran schoolteacher, "they seem to have very little respect for anything." Happily, though, many God-fearing children are exemplary in behavior.
"Fierce." (2 Timothy 3:3) The Greek word translated "fierce" means 'untamed, wild, lacking human sympathy and feeling.' How well this fits many perpetrators of today's violence! "Life is so traumatic, so bloodied with horror that it takes a cast-iron stomach to read the daily news," said one editorial. A housing-p0licew sergeant noted that many youths seem to blind themselves to the consequences of their actions. He said: "There is a feeling that, 'I don't know about tomorrows. I'll get what I want today.' "
"Having no natural affection." (2 Timothy 3:3) This phrase is translated from A Greek word meaning "heartless, inhuman " and denoting a "lack of natural , family affection." (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology) Yes, affection is often missing in the very environment in which it should flourish-the home. Reports of abusive treament of marriage mates, children, and even of elderly parents have become disturbingly common. One research team commented: "Human violence-be it a slap or a shove, a knifing or a shoot-out-occurs more frequently within the family circle than anywhere else in our society."
"Having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power." ( 2 Timothy 3:5) The Bible has the power to change lives for the better. (Ephesians 4:22-24) Yet, many today use their religion as a screen behind which they carry on unrighteous activities that displease God. Lying, stealing, and sexual misconduct are often condoned by religious leaders. Many religions preach love but support warfare. "In the name of the Supreme Creator," observes and editorial in the magazine India Today, "human beings have perpetrated the most abominable atrocities against their fellow creatures." In fact,the two bloodiest conflicts of recent times-World War I and II -erupted in the heart of Christendom.
Next time: Continue with FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS!
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.31.2011
Chapter 11 -THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was a new scope of war,the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity, and scale exceeded anything previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. "The twentieth century," say professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and, finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain -more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted areas include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty, . . . they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to life them out of chronic malnutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in the Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion-half the world's population-suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his significant medical accomplishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be . . . lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society . . . and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well, declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
Next time: Continue with: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was a new scope of war,the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity, and scale exceeded anything previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. "The twentieth century," say professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and, finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain -more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted areas include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty, . . . they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to life them out of chronic malnutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in the Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion-half the world's population-suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his significant medical accomplishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be . . . lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society . . . and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well, declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
Next time: Continue with: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.30.2011
Chapter 11 -THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
HOW did our turbulent wold get to this point? Where are we heading? Have you ever asked such questions? Many feel somewhat lost when they look at the world scene. Realities such as warfare, disease and crime leave people wondering what the future holds. Government leaders offer little hope. However, a reliable explanation of these distressing days is available from God in his Word. The Bible reliably helps us to see where we are in the stream of time. It shows us that we are in "the last days" of the present system of things. -2 Timothy 3:1.
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: "What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger,knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in that "short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. True, most features of the sign of the last days involve distressing situation. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a close look at some of the principal features of the last days.
Next time: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: "What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger,knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in that "short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. True, most features of the sign of the last days involve distressing situation. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a close look at some of the principal features of the last days.
Next time: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
KINGDOM RULE-WHEN
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord," King David said: "The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: "Sit at my right hand and I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.' " (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:34-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his acsension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrews 10:12, 13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (1 Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." -Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:16, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E.-Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed in the next chapter. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know this will happen soon?
Next time: Chapter 11-THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord," King David said: "The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: "Sit at my right hand and I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.' " (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:34-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his acsension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrews 10:12, 13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (1 Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." -Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:16, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E.-Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed in the next chapter. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know this will happen soon?
Next time: Chapter 11-THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.29.2011
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah gives us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the Law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (1 Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. -Luke 1:32, 33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19, 20; Revelation 21:14) Theses were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these prospective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go . . .and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." -Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe,in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14 ) As one aspect of the Kingdom-preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this gives clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality!
Jehovah told the Israelites: "You are my witnesses, . . .even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the faithful witness," zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6, 7 calls its Ruler, Jesus the "Prince of Peace" and adds: 'To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments-here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. . . . It itself will stand to times indefinite."
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . .will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Next time: KINGDOM RULE-WHEN?
The book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah gives us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the Law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (1 Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. -Luke 1:32, 33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19, 20; Revelation 21:14) Theses were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these prospective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go . . .and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." -Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe,in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14 ) As one aspect of the Kingdom-preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this gives clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality!
Jehovah told the Israelites: "You are my witnesses, . . .even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the faithful witness," zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6, 7 calls its Ruler, Jesus the "Prince of Peace" and adds: 'To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments-here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. . . . It itself will stand to times indefinite."
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . .will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Next time: KINGDOM RULE-WHEN?
The book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
As explained in Chapter 6, the first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. - Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus' words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James Version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The Kingdom of God is in your midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real, operating government having a ruler and subjects. It is a heavenly government, for is is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and "the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples,national groups and languages should all serve him." (AMEN! to that) (Daniel7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the Son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus doe not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1, 3; Luke 22:28, 30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
As explained in Chapter 6, the first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. - Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus' words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James Version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The Kingdom of God is in your midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real, operating government having a ruler and subjects. It is a heavenly government, for is is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and "the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples,national groups and languages should all serve him." (AMEN! to that) (Daniel7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the Son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus doe not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1, 3; Luke 22:28, 30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.28.2011
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
PERHAPS you have had the experience of buying a piece of equipment, only to find that it did not work. Let us say that you called a repairman. Shortly after he "fixed" the device, however, it broke down. How disappointing that was!
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made - and then broken. Moreover, what governments has been able to eradicate poverty, prejudice, crime, disease and ecological ruin? Man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" -Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! a stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the Kingdom of God," and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:, 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when the repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart." Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made - and then broken. Moreover, what governments has been able to eradicate poverty, prejudice, crime, disease and ecological ruin? Man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" -Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! a stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the Kingdom of God," and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:, 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when the repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart." Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
A limited number of men and women will be resurrected to life in heaven. As kings and priests with Jesus, they will share in undoing all the effects of death that mankind inherited from the first man, Adam. (Romans 5:12; Revelation 5:9, 10) How many will God take to heaven to rule with Christ? According to the Bible, only 144,000. (Revelation 7:4; 14:1) Jehovah will give each of these resurrected ones a spirit body so that they can live in heaven. -1 Corinthians 15:35, 38, 42-45; 1 Peter 3:18.
By far the majority of those who have died will be resurrected to a paradise earth. (Psalm 37:11, 29; Matthew 6:10) Part of the reason for resurrecting some to heaven is to complete God's purpose for the earth. Jesus Christ and the 144,000 in heaven will progressively bring obedient mankind back to the perfection that our original parents threw away. This will include resurrected ones, as indicated by Jesus when he told the dying man impaled next to him: "You will be with me in Paradise." -Luke 23:42, 43.
On the Paradise earth, death, which today produces such futility, will be removed. (Romans 8:19-21) The prophet Isaiah declared that Jehovah God "will actually swallow up death forever." (Isaiah 25:8) The apostle John was given a vision of the time when obedient mankind will experience freedom from pain and death. Yes, "God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." -Revelation 21:1-4.
The Bible's clear teachings remove confusion about what happens to the dead. The Scriptures plainly state that death is "the last enemy" that will be destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:26) What strength and comfort we can draw from knowledge of the resurrection hope! And how glad we can be that our dead loved ones who are in God's memory will awaken from the sleep of death to enjoy all the good things he has in store for those who love him! (Psalm 145:16) Such blessings will be accomplished through God's Kingdom. But when was its rule to begin? Let us see.
Next time:GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
A limited number of men and women will be resurrected to life in heaven. As kings and priests with Jesus, they will share in undoing all the effects of death that mankind inherited from the first man, Adam. (Romans 5:12; Revelation 5:9, 10) How many will God take to heaven to rule with Christ? According to the Bible, only 144,000. (Revelation 7:4; 14:1) Jehovah will give each of these resurrected ones a spirit body so that they can live in heaven. -1 Corinthians 15:35, 38, 42-45; 1 Peter 3:18.
By far the majority of those who have died will be resurrected to a paradise earth. (Psalm 37:11, 29; Matthew 6:10) Part of the reason for resurrecting some to heaven is to complete God's purpose for the earth. Jesus Christ and the 144,000 in heaven will progressively bring obedient mankind back to the perfection that our original parents threw away. This will include resurrected ones, as indicated by Jesus when he told the dying man impaled next to him: "You will be with me in Paradise." -Luke 23:42, 43.
On the Paradise earth, death, which today produces such futility, will be removed. (Romans 8:19-21) The prophet Isaiah declared that Jehovah God "will actually swallow up death forever." (Isaiah 25:8) The apostle John was given a vision of the time when obedient mankind will experience freedom from pain and death. Yes, "God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." -Revelation 21:1-4.
The Bible's clear teachings remove confusion about what happens to the dead. The Scriptures plainly state that death is "the last enemy" that will be destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:26) What strength and comfort we can draw from knowledge of the resurrection hope! And how glad we can be that our dead loved ones who are in God's memory will awaken from the sleep of death to enjoy all the good things he has in store for those who love him! (Psalm 145:16) Such blessings will be accomplished through God's Kingdom. But when was its rule to begin? Let us see.
Next time:GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.27.2011
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The word that Jesus' disciples used for resurrection" literally means "raising up" or "standing up." This is a raising up from the lifeless condition of death-as it were, a standing up out of the common grave of mankind. Jehovah God can easily resurrect a person. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of life. Today, humans can record the voices and images of men and women on videotape and can replay these recordings after the individuals die. Surely, then, our almighty Creator can record the details of any individual and resurrect the same person, giving him or her a newly formed body.
Jesus Christ said: "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." (John 5:28, 29) All those in Jehovah's memory will be resurrected and instructed in his ways. For those who act in harmony with the knowledge of God, this will turn out to be a resurrection of life. However, it will turn out to be a resurrection of condemnatory of judgment for those who reject God's teachings and rulership.
Naturally, those who have pursued a righteous course as Jehovah's servants will be resurrected. In fact, the resurrection hope strengthened many to face death, even in violent cases of persecution. They knew that God could restore them to life. (Matthew 10:28) But millions of people have died without showing whether they would comply with God's righteous standards. They too will be resurrected. Confident in Jehovah's purpose in this regard,the apostle Paul said: "I have hope toward God . . .That there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." -Acts 24:15.
The apostle John received a thrilling vision of resurrected ones standing before God's throne. John then wrote: "The sea gave up those dead in it, and death and Hades gave up those dead in them, and they were judged individually according to their deeds. And death and Hades were hurled in to the lake of fire. This means the second death, the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:12-14) Think of that! All the dead who are in God's memory have the prospect of release from Hades (Greek, hai'des), or Sheol, mankind's common grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31) They will have an opportunity to demonstrate by their deed whether they will serve God. Then "death and Hades" will be hurled into what is called "the lake of fire," symbolizing complete destruction, as does the term "Gehenna." (Luke 12:5) The common grave of mankind itself will have been emptied and will cease to exist when the resurrection is completed. How comforting it is to learn from the Bible that God does not torture anyone! -Jeremiah 7:30, 31.
Next time: RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
The word that Jesus' disciples used for resurrection" literally means "raising up" or "standing up." This is a raising up from the lifeless condition of death-as it were, a standing up out of the common grave of mankind. Jehovah God can easily resurrect a person. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of life. Today, humans can record the voices and images of men and women on videotape and can replay these recordings after the individuals die. Surely, then, our almighty Creator can record the details of any individual and resurrect the same person, giving him or her a newly formed body.
Jesus Christ said: "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." (John 5:28, 29) All those in Jehovah's memory will be resurrected and instructed in his ways. For those who act in harmony with the knowledge of God, this will turn out to be a resurrection of life. However, it will turn out to be a resurrection of condemnatory of judgment for those who reject God's teachings and rulership.
Naturally, those who have pursued a righteous course as Jehovah's servants will be resurrected. In fact, the resurrection hope strengthened many to face death, even in violent cases of persecution. They knew that God could restore them to life. (Matthew 10:28) But millions of people have died without showing whether they would comply with God's righteous standards. They too will be resurrected. Confident in Jehovah's purpose in this regard,the apostle Paul said: "I have hope toward God . . .That there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." -Acts 24:15.
The apostle John received a thrilling vision of resurrected ones standing before God's throne. John then wrote: "The sea gave up those dead in it, and death and Hades gave up those dead in them, and they were judged individually according to their deeds. And death and Hades were hurled in to the lake of fire. This means the second death, the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:12-14) Think of that! All the dead who are in God's memory have the prospect of release from Hades (Greek, hai'des), or Sheol, mankind's common grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31) They will have an opportunity to demonstrate by their deed whether they will serve God. Then "death and Hades" will be hurled into what is called "the lake of fire," symbolizing complete destruction, as does the term "Gehenna." (Luke 12:5) The common grave of mankind itself will have been emptied and will cease to exist when the resurrection is completed. How comforting it is to learn from the Bible that God does not torture anyone! -Jeremiah 7:30, 31.
Next time: RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"GONE TO REST"
It is Jehovah's purpose to rescue us and our dead loved ones from Adamic death. Therefore, God's Word refers to the dead as being asleep. For example, upon learning that his friend Lazarus had died, Jesus Christ told his disciples: "Lazarus our friend has gone to rest, but I am journeying there to awaken him from his sleep." Since the disciples did not immediately grasp the meaning of this statement, Jesus said plainly: "Lazarus has died." (John 11:11, 14) Jesus then went to the town of Bethany, where Lazarus' sisters Martha and Mary were mourning their brother's death. When Jesus told Martha, "Your brother will rise," she expressed her faith in God's purpose to reverse the effects of death on the human family. She said: 'i know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day." -John 11:23, 24.
Martha expressed no thought about an immortal soul living on elsewhere after death. She did not believe that Lazarus had already gone to some spirit realm to continue his existence. Martha had faith in the wonderful hope of a resurrection from the dead. She understood, not that an immortal soul had departed from the body of Lazarus, but that her dead brother had ceased to exist. The remedy would be the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus Christ is the one empowered by Jehovah God to redeem mankind. (Hosea 13:14) Hence, in response to Martha's statement, Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life. He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) Jesus demonstrated his God-given power in this regard when he went to the tomb of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, and restored him to life. (John 11:38:44) Just imagine the joy of those who saw this resurrection or others performed by Jesus Chris! -Mark 5:35-42; Luke 7:12-16.
Pause for a moment to consider this: Nobody would need to be resurrected, or brought back to life, if an immortal soul survived death. In fact, it would be no kindness to resurrect someone like Lazarus back to imperfect life on earth if he had already passed on to a wonderful heavenly reward. Actually, the Bible never uses the expression "immortal soul." Instead, the Scriptures say that the sinning human soul does die. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20) So the Bible points to the provision of a resurrection as the real remedy for death.
Next time: "ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
It is Jehovah's purpose to rescue us and our dead loved ones from Adamic death. Therefore, God's Word refers to the dead as being asleep. For example, upon learning that his friend Lazarus had died, Jesus Christ told his disciples: "Lazarus our friend has gone to rest, but I am journeying there to awaken him from his sleep." Since the disciples did not immediately grasp the meaning of this statement, Jesus said plainly: "Lazarus has died." (John 11:11, 14) Jesus then went to the town of Bethany, where Lazarus' sisters Martha and Mary were mourning their brother's death. When Jesus told Martha, "Your brother will rise," she expressed her faith in God's purpose to reverse the effects of death on the human family. She said: 'i know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day." -John 11:23, 24.
Martha expressed no thought about an immortal soul living on elsewhere after death. She did not believe that Lazarus had already gone to some spirit realm to continue his existence. Martha had faith in the wonderful hope of a resurrection from the dead. She understood, not that an immortal soul had departed from the body of Lazarus, but that her dead brother had ceased to exist. The remedy would be the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus Christ is the one empowered by Jehovah God to redeem mankind. (Hosea 13:14) Hence, in response to Martha's statement, Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life. He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) Jesus demonstrated his God-given power in this regard when he went to the tomb of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, and restored him to life. (John 11:38:44) Just imagine the joy of those who saw this resurrection or others performed by Jesus Chris! -Mark 5:35-42; Luke 7:12-16.
Pause for a moment to consider this: Nobody would need to be resurrected, or brought back to life, if an immortal soul survived death. In fact, it would be no kindness to resurrect someone like Lazarus back to imperfect life on earth if he had already passed on to a wonderful heavenly reward. Actually, the Bible never uses the expression "immortal soul." Instead, the Scriptures say that the sinning human soul does die. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20) So the Bible points to the provision of a resurrection as the real remedy for death.
Next time: "ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.26.2011
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"TO DUST YOU WILL RETURN"
Jehovah clearly explained what death would mean for the sinner Adam. God said: "In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. For dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19) Adam would return where? To the ground, to the dust from which he had been created. At death Adam would simply cease to exist!
In this regard, human death does not differ from that of the animals. They too are souls, and the same spirit, or life force,energizes them. (Genesis 1:24) At Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20, the wise man Solomon tells us: "As the one dies, so does the other dies; and they all have but one spirit, so that [in death] there is no superiority of the man over the beast . . . They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust." Man was superior to the beasts in that he was created in God's image, reflecting the qualities of Jehovah. (Genesis 1:26, 27) Yet, at death humans an animals alike return to the dust.
Solomon further explained what death means, saying: "The living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all." Yes, the dead know absolutely noting. In view of this, Solomon urged: "All that your hand finds to do, do with your very power, for there is not work nor devising nor knowledge nor wisdom in Sheol,the place to which you are going." (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) Where do the dead go? To Sheol (Hebrew, she'ohl'), the common grave of mankind. Our dead loved ones are not conscious of anything. They are not suffering, and they cannot affect us in any way.
Must all of us and our loved ones live only a few years and then cease to live forever? Not according to the Bible. At the time of Adam's rebellion, Jehovah God immediately instituted arrangements to reverse the terrible consequences of human sin. Death was not part of God's purpose for mankind. (Ezekiel 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9) Hence, death does not have to be final for us or for our loved ones.
Next time: "GONE TO REST"
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Jehovah clearly explained what death would mean for the sinner Adam. God said: "In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. For dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19) Adam would return where? To the ground, to the dust from which he had been created. At death Adam would simply cease to exist!
In this regard, human death does not differ from that of the animals. They too are souls, and the same spirit, or life force,energizes them. (Genesis 1:24) At Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20, the wise man Solomon tells us: "As the one dies, so does the other dies; and they all have but one spirit, so that [in death] there is no superiority of the man over the beast . . . They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust." Man was superior to the beasts in that he was created in God's image, reflecting the qualities of Jehovah. (Genesis 1:26, 27) Yet, at death humans an animals alike return to the dust.
Solomon further explained what death means, saying: "The living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all." Yes, the dead know absolutely noting. In view of this, Solomon urged: "All that your hand finds to do, do with your very power, for there is not work nor devising nor knowledge nor wisdom in Sheol,the place to which you are going." (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) Where do the dead go? To Sheol (Hebrew, she'ohl'), the common grave of mankind. Our dead loved ones are not conscious of anything. They are not suffering, and they cannot affect us in any way.
Must all of us and our loved ones live only a few years and then cease to live forever? Not according to the Bible. At the time of Adam's rebellion, Jehovah God immediately instituted arrangements to reverse the terrible consequences of human sin. Death was not part of God's purpose for mankind. (Ezekiel 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9) Hence, death does not have to be final for us or for our loved ones.
Next time: "GONE TO REST"
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
WHAT IS THE "SPIRIT" IN HUMANS?
The ancient Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato held that there must be something inherently immortal inside man and woman-a soul that survives death and never really dies. Earth wide, millions believe this today. This belief often engenders as much fear of the dead as it does concern for their welfare. The Bible teaches us something quite different about the dead.
In considering the condition of the dead, we must remember that our original father, Adam, did not have a soul. He was a soul. In an awe-inspiring act of creation, God formed man-the soul-from the basic elements of the earth and then breathed into him "the breath of life." (Genesis 2:7 tells us: "Jehovah God proceeded to form the man out of dust from the ground and to blow into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man came to be a living soul." Adam's life was sustained by breathing. Yet, more than the blowing of air into man's lungs was involved when God put the breath of life into Adam. The Bible speaks of "the force of life" that is active in earthly living creatures. -Genesis 7:22.
What is "the force of life" ? It is the vital spark of life that God puts into the lifeless body of Adam. This force was then sustained by the breathing process. But what is the "spirit" referred to at Psalm 146:4? That verse says of one who dies: "His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground; in that day his thoughts do perish." When the Bible writers used the word "spirit" in this way, they did not have in mind a disembodied soul that continues living after the body dies.
The "spirit" that departs from humans at death is the life force that originated with our Creator. (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) This life force does not have any of the characteristics of the creature it animates, just as electricity does not take on the features of the equipment it powers. When someone dies, the spirit (life force) ceases to animate the body cells, much as a light goes out when the electricity is turned off. When the life force stops sustaining the human body -the soul-dies. -Psalm 104:29; Ecclesiastes 12:1, 7.
Next time: " TO DUST YOU WILL RETURN"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
The ancient Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato held that there must be something inherently immortal inside man and woman-a soul that survives death and never really dies. Earth wide, millions believe this today. This belief often engenders as much fear of the dead as it does concern for their welfare. The Bible teaches us something quite different about the dead.
In considering the condition of the dead, we must remember that our original father, Adam, did not have a soul. He was a soul. In an awe-inspiring act of creation, God formed man-the soul-from the basic elements of the earth and then breathed into him "the breath of life." (Genesis 2:7 tells us: "Jehovah God proceeded to form the man out of dust from the ground and to blow into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man came to be a living soul." Adam's life was sustained by breathing. Yet, more than the blowing of air into man's lungs was involved when God put the breath of life into Adam. The Bible speaks of "the force of life" that is active in earthly living creatures. -Genesis 7:22.
What is "the force of life" ? It is the vital spark of life that God puts into the lifeless body of Adam. This force was then sustained by the breathing process. But what is the "spirit" referred to at Psalm 146:4? That verse says of one who dies: "His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground; in that day his thoughts do perish." When the Bible writers used the word "spirit" in this way, they did not have in mind a disembodied soul that continues living after the body dies.
The "spirit" that departs from humans at death is the life force that originated with our Creator. (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) This life force does not have any of the characteristics of the creature it animates, just as electricity does not take on the features of the equipment it powers. When someone dies, the spirit (life force) ceases to animate the body cells, much as a light goes out when the electricity is turned off. When the life force stops sustaining the human body -the soul-dies. -Psalm 104:29; Ecclesiastes 12:1, 7.
Next time: " TO DUST YOU WILL RETURN"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.25.2011
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"ONE suffers when a loved one dies because death is a loss to a void beyond all understanding." That is what one son said when his father and shortly thereafter his mother died. His pain and sense of deep loss made him feel that he was "drowning emotionally." Perhaps you have suffered in a similar way. You may have wondered where your loved ones are and whether you will ever see them again. (In the Bible, it says you will see them but not recognize them)
Some grieving parents have been told, "God picks the most beautiful flowers to take to himself in heaven." Is that really so? Have our dead lovedones gone to a spirit realm? Is it what some call Nirvana,described as a blissful state of being free of all pain and desire? Have those we loved passed through a doorway to immortal life in paradise? Or as others claim, is death a fall into neverending torment for those who have offended God? Can the dead affect our lives? to get truthful answers to such questions, we need to consult God's Word, the Bible.
Next time: WHAT IS THE "SPIRIT" IN HUMANS?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Some grieving parents have been told, "God picks the most beautiful flowers to take to himself in heaven." Is that really so? Have our dead lovedones gone to a spirit realm? Is it what some call Nirvana,described as a blissful state of being free of all pain and desire? Have those we loved passed through a doorway to immortal life in paradise? Or as others claim, is death a fall into neverending torment for those who have offended God? Can the dead affect our lives? to get truthful answers to such questions, we need to consult God's Word, the Bible.
Next time: WHAT IS THE "SPIRIT" IN HUMANS?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
Knowing the issues involved,on whose side will you stand? Will you prove by your actions that you are a loyal supporter of Jehovah? Since Satan knows that his time is short, he will do all he can to vent his wrath on those who want to keep integrity to God. (Revelation 12:12) But you can look to God for help because "Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial." (2 Peter 2:9) He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, and he will make the way out so that you are able to endure temptations. - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
Confidently, let us look forward to the time when the King Jesus Christ will take action against Satan and all who follow him. (Revelation 20:1-3) Jesus will do away with all those who share responsibility for the woes and turmoil that mankind has suffered. Until that time, one especially painful form of suffering is the loss of our loved ones in death. The next chapter will tell you what happens to them.
Next time: Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Knowing the issues involved,on whose side will you stand? Will you prove by your actions that you are a loyal supporter of Jehovah? Since Satan knows that his time is short, he will do all he can to vent his wrath on those who want to keep integrity to God. (Revelation 12:12) But you can look to God for help because "Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial." (2 Peter 2:9) He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, and he will make the way out so that you are able to endure temptations. - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
Confidently, let us look forward to the time when the King Jesus Christ will take action against Satan and all who follow him. (Revelation 20:1-3) Jesus will do away with all those who share responsibility for the woes and turmoil that mankind has suffered. Until that time, one especially painful form of suffering is the loss of our loved ones in death. The next chapter will tell you what happens to them.
Next time: Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.24.2011
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
WHAT HAS BEEN PROVED?
During nearly all human history, Satan has found a free hand to work out his schemes of domination over mankind. Among other things, he has wielded influence over the political powers and has promoted religions that subtly direct worship to him rather than to Jehovah. Thus the Devil has become "the god of this system of things," and he is called "the ruler of this world." (2 Corinthians 4:4; John 12:31) Indeed, "the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) Does this mean that Satan has proved his claim that he could draw all mankind away from Jehovah God? Certainly not! While permitting Satan to remain in existence, Jehovah has proceeded to carry out his own purpose. What, then, does the Bible reveal concerning God's permission of wickedness?
Wickedness and suffering are not caused by Jehovah. Since Satan is the ruler of this world and the god of this system of things, he and those on his side are responsible for the present condition of human society and all the misery that mankind has suffered. No one can rightly say that God is the cause of such hardship. -Romans 9:14.
Jehovah's permitting wickedness and suffering has proved that independence from God has not brought about a better world. Undeniably, history has been marked by one disaster after another. The reason for this is that humans have chosen to pursue their own independent course and have shown no real regard for God's word and will. When Jehovah's ancient people and their leaders unfaithfully pursued "the popular course" and rejected his Word,the results were disastrous. Through his prophet Jeremiah, God told them: "The wise ones have become ashamed. They have become terrified and will be caught. Look! They have rejected the very word of Jehovah, and what wisdom do they have?" (Jeremiah 8:5, 6, 9) Having failed to follow Jehovah's standards, mankind in general has become like a ship without a rudder, tossed about in a turbulent sea.
God's permission of wickedness and suffering has also proved that Satan has not been able to turn all mankind away from Jehovah. History shows that there have always been individuals who have remained faithful to God no matter what temptations or adversities were brought upon them. Over the centuries, Jehovah's power has been manifested in behalf of his servants and his name has been declared in all the earth. (Exodus 9:16; 1 Samuel 12:22) Hebrews chapter 11 tells us about a long line of faithful ones, including Abel, Enoch,Noah, Abraham and Moses. Hebrews 12:1 calls them 'a great cloud of witnesses.' They were examples of unwavering faith in Jehovah. In modern times too, many have given their lives in unbreakable integrity to God. By their faith and love, such individuals prove conclusively that Satan cannot turn all humans against God.
Finally, Jehovah's allowing wickedness and suffering to continue has provided proof that only Jehovah, the Creator, has the ability and the right to rule over mankind for their eternal blessing and happiness. For centuries, mankind has tried many forms of government. But what has been the result? The complex problems and crises facing the nations today are ample evidence that truly, as the Bible points out, "man has dominated man to his injury." (Ecclesiastes 8:9) Only Jehovah can come to our rescue and fulfill his original purpose. How will he do this, and when?
Right after Adam and Even fall victim to Satan's scheme, God announced His purpose regarding a means of salvation. This is what Jehovah proclaimed regarding Satan: "I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel." (Genesis 3:15) That proclamation guaranteed that the Devil would not be allowed to do his evil deeds forever. As the King of the Messianic Kingdom, the promised Seed, Jesus Christ, will 'bruise Satan in the head.' Yes, "shortly," Jesus will crush the rebel Satan! -Romans 16:20.
Next time: WHAT WILL YOU DO?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
During nearly all human history, Satan has found a free hand to work out his schemes of domination over mankind. Among other things, he has wielded influence over the political powers and has promoted religions that subtly direct worship to him rather than to Jehovah. Thus the Devil has become "the god of this system of things," and he is called "the ruler of this world." (2 Corinthians 4:4; John 12:31) Indeed, "the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) Does this mean that Satan has proved his claim that he could draw all mankind away from Jehovah God? Certainly not! While permitting Satan to remain in existence, Jehovah has proceeded to carry out his own purpose. What, then, does the Bible reveal concerning God's permission of wickedness?
Wickedness and suffering are not caused by Jehovah. Since Satan is the ruler of this world and the god of this system of things, he and those on his side are responsible for the present condition of human society and all the misery that mankind has suffered. No one can rightly say that God is the cause of such hardship. -Romans 9:14.
Jehovah's permitting wickedness and suffering has proved that independence from God has not brought about a better world. Undeniably, history has been marked by one disaster after another. The reason for this is that humans have chosen to pursue their own independent course and have shown no real regard for God's word and will. When Jehovah's ancient people and their leaders unfaithfully pursued "the popular course" and rejected his Word,the results were disastrous. Through his prophet Jeremiah, God told them: "The wise ones have become ashamed. They have become terrified and will be caught. Look! They have rejected the very word of Jehovah, and what wisdom do they have?" (Jeremiah 8:5, 6, 9) Having failed to follow Jehovah's standards, mankind in general has become like a ship without a rudder, tossed about in a turbulent sea.
God's permission of wickedness and suffering has also proved that Satan has not been able to turn all mankind away from Jehovah. History shows that there have always been individuals who have remained faithful to God no matter what temptations or adversities were brought upon them. Over the centuries, Jehovah's power has been manifested in behalf of his servants and his name has been declared in all the earth. (Exodus 9:16; 1 Samuel 12:22) Hebrews chapter 11 tells us about a long line of faithful ones, including Abel, Enoch,Noah, Abraham and Moses. Hebrews 12:1 calls them 'a great cloud of witnesses.' They were examples of unwavering faith in Jehovah. In modern times too, many have given their lives in unbreakable integrity to God. By their faith and love, such individuals prove conclusively that Satan cannot turn all humans against God.
Finally, Jehovah's allowing wickedness and suffering to continue has provided proof that only Jehovah, the Creator, has the ability and the right to rule over mankind for their eternal blessing and happiness. For centuries, mankind has tried many forms of government. But what has been the result? The complex problems and crises facing the nations today are ample evidence that truly, as the Bible points out, "man has dominated man to his injury." (Ecclesiastes 8:9) Only Jehovah can come to our rescue and fulfill his original purpose. How will he do this, and when?
Right after Adam and Even fall victim to Satan's scheme, God announced His purpose regarding a means of salvation. This is what Jehovah proclaimed regarding Satan: "I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel." (Genesis 3:15) That proclamation guaranteed that the Devil would not be allowed to do his evil deeds forever. As the King of the Messianic Kingdom, the promised Seed, Jesus Christ, will 'bruise Satan in the head.' Yes, "shortly," Jesus will crush the rebel Satan! -Romans 16:20.
Next time: WHAT WILL YOU DO?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
HOW TO SETTLE THE ISSUES
For the sake of illustration, let us say that you are a loving parent with several children in a happy family. Suppose one of your neighbors spreads lies, accusing you of being a bad parent. What if the neighbor says that your children do not love you, that they stay with you only because they do not know any better, and that they would leave if someone showed them the way. 'Preposterous!' You might say. Yes, but how would you prove it? Some parents might react in a rage. Besides creating more problems, such a violent response would lend support to the lies. A satisfying way to deal with such a problem would be to allow opportunity for your accuser to prove his claim and for your children to testify that they sincerely love you.
Jehovah is like the loving parent. Adam and Eve may be compared to the children, and Satan fits the role of the lying neighbor. God wisely did not destroy Satan, Adam and Eve immediately but permitted these wrongdoers to continue living for awhile. This allowed our first parents time to start the human family, and it has given the Devil a chance to prove whether his claim was true so that the issues could be settled. From the start, however, God knew that some humans would be loyal to him and would thus prove Satan a liar. How thankful we are that Jehovah has continued to bless and help those who love him! - 2 Chronicles 16:9; Proverbs 15:3.
Next time: WHAT HAS BEEN PROVED?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
For the sake of illustration, let us say that you are a loving parent with several children in a happy family. Suppose one of your neighbors spreads lies, accusing you of being a bad parent. What if the neighbor says that your children do not love you, that they stay with you only because they do not know any better, and that they would leave if someone showed them the way. 'Preposterous!' You might say. Yes, but how would you prove it? Some parents might react in a rage. Besides creating more problems, such a violent response would lend support to the lies. A satisfying way to deal with such a problem would be to allow opportunity for your accuser to prove his claim and for your children to testify that they sincerely love you.
Jehovah is like the loving parent. Adam and Eve may be compared to the children, and Satan fits the role of the lying neighbor. God wisely did not destroy Satan, Adam and Eve immediately but permitted these wrongdoers to continue living for awhile. This allowed our first parents time to start the human family, and it has given the Devil a chance to prove whether his claim was true so that the issues could be settled. From the start, however, God knew that some humans would be loyal to him and would thus prove Satan a liar. How thankful we are that Jehovah has continued to bless and help those who love him! - 2 Chronicles 16:9; Proverbs 15:3.
Next time: WHAT HAS BEEN PROVED?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.23.2011
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
A MALICIOUS CHALLENGE
To remain in God's favor, Adam and Eve would have to refrain from eating from "the tree of the knowledge of good and bad." (Genesis 2:16, 17) If they had obeyed Jehovah's law, there would have been no suffering to mar human life. By obeying God's command, hey would have demonstrated their love for Jehovah and their loyalty to him. (1 John 5:3) But as we learned in Chapter 6, things did not turn out that way. Urged by Satan, Eve ate fruit from that tree. Later, Adam also partook of the forbidden fruit.
Do you see the seriousness of what happened? Satan was attacking Jehovah's position as the Most High. By saying, "You positively will not die," The Devil contradicted God's Words, "You will positively die." Satan's further words implied that Jehovah was keeping Adam and Eve ignorant of the possibility of becoming like God, thus not needing Him to decide what was good and bad. Satan's challenge therefore brought into question the right and validity of Jehovah's position as the Universal Sovereign. -Genesis 2:17; 3:1-6.
Satan the Devil also insinuated that people would remain obedient to Jehovah only as long as obeying God was to their advantage. In other words, human integrity was brought into question. Satan charged that no human would voluntarily remain loyal to God. This malicious claim by Satan is clearly revealed in the Bible's account about Job, a faithful servant of Jehovah who underwent a great test sometime before 1600 B.C.E. When you read the first two chapters of the book of Job, you can gain insight into the reason for human suffering and why God permits it.
Job, "a man blameless and upright," came under Satan's attack. First, Satan imputed bad motives to Job by raising the question, "Is it for nothing that Job has feared God?" Then, the Devil cunningly maligned both God and Job by charging that Jehovah had bought Job's loyalty by protecting and blessing him. "But, for a change," Satan challenged Jehovah, "thrust out your hand, please, and touch everything he has and see whether he will not curse you to your face." -Job 1:8-11.
Was Job serving Jehovah simply because of all the good that he received from god? Could Job's integrity stand up under test? In turn, did Jehovah have enough confidence in his servant to allow him to be tested? These questions could be answered if Jehovah would permit Satan to bring upon Job the severest of tests. Job's faithful course under the test allowed by God, as narrated in the book of Job, proved to be a thorough vindication of Jehovah's righteousness and man's integrity. -Job 42:1, 2, 12.
What happened in the garden of Eden and to the man Job, however, has a deeper implication. The issues Satan raised involved all mankind, including us today. God's name was maligned, and his sovereignty was challenged. The uprightness of God's creation, man, was called into question. These issues had to be settled.
Next time: HOW TO SETTLE THE ISSUES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
To remain in God's favor, Adam and Eve would have to refrain from eating from "the tree of the knowledge of good and bad." (Genesis 2:16, 17) If they had obeyed Jehovah's law, there would have been no suffering to mar human life. By obeying God's command, hey would have demonstrated their love for Jehovah and their loyalty to him. (1 John 5:3) But as we learned in Chapter 6, things did not turn out that way. Urged by Satan, Eve ate fruit from that tree. Later, Adam also partook of the forbidden fruit.
Do you see the seriousness of what happened? Satan was attacking Jehovah's position as the Most High. By saying, "You positively will not die," The Devil contradicted God's Words, "You will positively die." Satan's further words implied that Jehovah was keeping Adam and Eve ignorant of the possibility of becoming like God, thus not needing Him to decide what was good and bad. Satan's challenge therefore brought into question the right and validity of Jehovah's position as the Universal Sovereign. -Genesis 2:17; 3:1-6.
Satan the Devil also insinuated that people would remain obedient to Jehovah only as long as obeying God was to their advantage. In other words, human integrity was brought into question. Satan charged that no human would voluntarily remain loyal to God. This malicious claim by Satan is clearly revealed in the Bible's account about Job, a faithful servant of Jehovah who underwent a great test sometime before 1600 B.C.E. When you read the first two chapters of the book of Job, you can gain insight into the reason for human suffering and why God permits it.
Job, "a man blameless and upright," came under Satan's attack. First, Satan imputed bad motives to Job by raising the question, "Is it for nothing that Job has feared God?" Then, the Devil cunningly maligned both God and Job by charging that Jehovah had bought Job's loyalty by protecting and blessing him. "But, for a change," Satan challenged Jehovah, "thrust out your hand, please, and touch everything he has and see whether he will not curse you to your face." -Job 1:8-11.
Was Job serving Jehovah simply because of all the good that he received from god? Could Job's integrity stand up under test? In turn, did Jehovah have enough confidence in his servant to allow him to be tested? These questions could be answered if Jehovah would permit Satan to bring upon Job the severest of tests. Job's faithful course under the test allowed by God, as narrated in the book of Job, proved to be a thorough vindication of Jehovah's righteousness and man's integrity. -Job 42:1, 2, 12.
What happened in the garden of Eden and to the man Job, however, has a deeper implication. The issues Satan raised involved all mankind, including us today. God's name was maligned, and his sovereignty was challenged. The uprightness of God's creation, man, was called into question. These issues had to be settled.
Next time: HOW TO SETTLE THE ISSUES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
A PERFECT BEGINNING
All of us are accustomed to seeing and feeling pain and suffering. It may therefore be hard to imagine a time without suffering, but that was how things were at the beginning of human history. Even the legends of some nations allude to such a happy start. In Greek mythology, the first of the "Five Ages of Man" was called the "Golden Age." In it humans lived happy lives, free from toil, pain and the ravages of old age. The Chinese say that during the reign of the mythological Yellow Emperor (Huang-Ti), people lived in peace, enjoying harmony even with the elements and the wild beasts. Persians, Egyptians, Tibetans, Peruvians and Mexicans all have legends about a time of happiness and perfection at the beginning of mankind's history.
The myths of the nations merely echo the oldest written record of human history, the Bible. It informs us that God placed the first human pair, Adam and Eve, in a paradise called the garden of Eden and commanded them: "Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it." (Genesis 1:28) our first parents enjoyed perfection and had the prospect of seeing the whole earth become a paradise occupied by a perfect human family living in lasting peace and happiness. That was God's purpose in creating the earth and humankind. -Isaiah 45:18.
Next time: A MALICIOUS CHALLENGE
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
All of us are accustomed to seeing and feeling pain and suffering. It may therefore be hard to imagine a time without suffering, but that was how things were at the beginning of human history. Even the legends of some nations allude to such a happy start. In Greek mythology, the first of the "Five Ages of Man" was called the "Golden Age." In it humans lived happy lives, free from toil, pain and the ravages of old age. The Chinese say that during the reign of the mythological Yellow Emperor (Huang-Ti), people lived in peace, enjoying harmony even with the elements and the wild beasts. Persians, Egyptians, Tibetans, Peruvians and Mexicans all have legends about a time of happiness and perfection at the beginning of mankind's history.
The myths of the nations merely echo the oldest written record of human history, the Bible. It informs us that God placed the first human pair, Adam and Eve, in a paradise called the garden of Eden and commanded them: "Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it." (Genesis 1:28) our first parents enjoyed perfection and had the prospect of seeing the whole earth become a paradise occupied by a perfect human family living in lasting peace and happiness. That was God's purpose in creating the earth and humankind. -Isaiah 45:18.
Next time: A MALICIOUS CHALLENGE
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.22.2011
Chapter - 8 WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
SUFFERING NOT FROM GOD
The Bible assures us that the suffering we see around us is not caused by Jehovah God. For instance, the Christian disciple James wrote: "When under trial, let no one say: 'I am being tried by God.' For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone" (James 1:13) That being so, God could not have caused the numerous hardships plaguing mankind. He does not bring trials upon people to make them fit for life in heaven, nor does he make people suffer for evil deeds they supposedly committed in past life. -Romans 6:7.
In addition, even though many terrible things have been done in the name of God or of Christ, there is nothing in the Bible to suggest that either of them has ever approved of such actions. God and Christ have nothing to do with those who claim to serve them but who cheat and swindle, kill and plunder, and do many other things that cause human suffering. In fact, "the way of the wicked one is something detestable to Jehovah." God "is far away from the wicked ones." -Proverbs 15:9,29.
The Bible describes Jehovah as being "very tender in affection and merciful." (James 5:11) It proclaims that "Jehovah is a lover of justice." (Psalm 37:28; Isaiah 61:8) He is not vindictive. He compassionately cares for his creatures and gives all of them what is best for their well-being. (Acts 14:16, 17) Jehovah has done that from the very origin of life on the earth.
Next time: A PERFECT BEGINNING
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
The Bible assures us that the suffering we see around us is not caused by Jehovah God. For instance, the Christian disciple James wrote: "When under trial, let no one say: 'I am being tried by God.' For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone" (James 1:13) That being so, God could not have caused the numerous hardships plaguing mankind. He does not bring trials upon people to make them fit for life in heaven, nor does he make people suffer for evil deeds they supposedly committed in past life. -Romans 6:7.
In addition, even though many terrible things have been done in the name of God or of Christ, there is nothing in the Bible to suggest that either of them has ever approved of such actions. God and Christ have nothing to do with those who claim to serve them but who cheat and swindle, kill and plunder, and do many other things that cause human suffering. In fact, "the way of the wicked one is something detestable to Jehovah." God "is far away from the wicked ones." -Proverbs 15:9,29.
The Bible describes Jehovah as being "very tender in affection and merciful." (James 5:11) It proclaims that "Jehovah is a lover of justice." (Psalm 37:28; Isaiah 61:8) He is not vindictive. He compassionately cares for his creatures and gives all of them what is best for their well-being. (Acts 14:16, 17) Jehovah has done that from the very origin of life on the earth.
Next time: A PERFECT BEGINNING
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter- 8 -WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
WHEN disasters strike, destroying property and claiming lives, many cannot understand why such terrible things happen. Others are troubled by the extent, cruelty and wantonness of crime and violence. You too may have wondered, 'Why does God permit suffering?'
Because they have found no satisfactory answer to this question, many have lost faith in God. They feel that he is not interested in mankind. Others who accept suffering as a fact of life become embittered and blame God for all the evil in human society. If you have had such feelings, doubtless you will be very interested in the Bible's statements on these matters.
Next time: SUFFERING NOT FROM GOD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Because they have found no satisfactory answer to this question, many have lost faith in God. They feel that he is not interested in mankind. Others who accept suffering as a fact of life become embittered and blame God for all the evil in human society. If you have had such feelings, doubtless you will be very interested in the Bible's statements on these matters.
Next time: SUFFERING NOT FROM GOD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.21.2011
Chapter 7-WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
CHRIST'S RANSOM AND YOU
Consider three ways in which Christ's ransom sacrifice benefits you even now. First, it brings forgiveness of sins. Through faith in the blood of Jesus, we have "the release by ransom," yes, "the forgiveness of our trespasses." (Ephesians 1:7) So even if we have committed a serious sin, we can ask God for forgiveness in Jesus' name. If we are truly repentant, Jehovah applies to us the value of his Son's ransom sacrifice. God forgives us, granting us the blessing of a good conscience, instead of exacting the penalty of death that we incur by sinning. -Acts 3:19; 1 Peter 3:21.
Second, Christ's ransom sacrifice provides the basis of our hope for the future.
In vision, the apostle John saw that "a great crowd, which no man was able to number" would survive the coming cataclysmic end of this system oft hings. Why will they survive when God destroys so many others? An angel told John that the great crowd had washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb<" Jesus Christ. (Revelation 7:9, 14) As long as we exercise faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ and live in harmony with divine requirements,we will be clean in God's sight and will have the hope of everlasting life.
Third, the ransom sacrifice is the ultimate proof of Jehovah's love. Christ's death embodied the two greatest acts of love in the history of the universe: (1) God's love in sending his Son to die in our behalf; (2) Jesus' love in willingly offering himself as a ransom. (John 15:13; Romans 5:8) If we truly exercise faith,this love applies to each and every one of us. The apostle Paul said: "The Son of God . . . loved me and handed himself over for me." -Galatians 2:20; Hebrews2:9: 1 John 4:9, 10.
Therefore, let us show our gratitude for the love displayed by God and Christ by exercising faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. Doing so leads to everlasting life. (John 3:36) Yet, our salvation is not the most important reason for Jesus' life and death on earth. No, his primary concern was an even greater issue, a universal one. As we shall see in the next chapter, that issue touches all of us because it shows why God has allowed wickedness and suffering to persist so long in this world.
Next time:WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting life, 1995
Consider three ways in which Christ's ransom sacrifice benefits you even now. First, it brings forgiveness of sins. Through faith in the blood of Jesus, we have "the release by ransom," yes, "the forgiveness of our trespasses." (Ephesians 1:7) So even if we have committed a serious sin, we can ask God for forgiveness in Jesus' name. If we are truly repentant, Jehovah applies to us the value of his Son's ransom sacrifice. God forgives us, granting us the blessing of a good conscience, instead of exacting the penalty of death that we incur by sinning. -Acts 3:19; 1 Peter 3:21.
Second, Christ's ransom sacrifice provides the basis of our hope for the future.
In vision, the apostle John saw that "a great crowd, which no man was able to number" would survive the coming cataclysmic end of this system oft hings. Why will they survive when God destroys so many others? An angel told John that the great crowd had washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb<" Jesus Christ. (Revelation 7:9, 14) As long as we exercise faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ and live in harmony with divine requirements,we will be clean in God's sight and will have the hope of everlasting life.
Third, the ransom sacrifice is the ultimate proof of Jehovah's love. Christ's death embodied the two greatest acts of love in the history of the universe: (1) God's love in sending his Son to die in our behalf; (2) Jesus' love in willingly offering himself as a ransom. (John 15:13; Romans 5:8) If we truly exercise faith,this love applies to each and every one of us. The apostle Paul said: "The Son of God . . . loved me and handed himself over for me." -Galatians 2:20; Hebrews2:9: 1 John 4:9, 10.
Therefore, let us show our gratitude for the love displayed by God and Christ by exercising faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. Doing so leads to everlasting life. (John 3:36) Yet, our salvation is not the most important reason for Jesus' life and death on earth. No, his primary concern was an even greater issue, a universal one. As we shall see in the next chapter, that issue touches all of us because it shows why God has allowed wickedness and suffering to persist so long in this world.
Next time:WHY DOES GOD PERMIT SUFFERING?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting life, 1995
Chapter 7-WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
HOW THE RANSOM WAS PAID
In the fall of 29 C.E., Jesus went to his relative John to be baptized and thereby present himself to carry out God's will. On that occasion Jehovah anointed Jesus with holy spirit. Jesus thus became the Messiah, or Christ, the one anointed by God. (Matthew 3:16, 17) Then Jesus embarked on his three-and-a-half-year ministry. He traveled throughout his homeland, preaching about God's Kingdom and gathering faithful followers. However, as foretold, opposition to him soon mounted. -Psalm 118:22; Acts 4:8-11.
Jesus courageously exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. and they sought his death. They eventually hatched up an ugly plot that involved betrayal, improper arrest, illegal trial, and a false charge of sedition. Jesus was struck, spat upon, ridiculed and beaten with a whip designed to tear his flesh. The Roman governor Pontius Pilate then sentenced him to death on a torture stake. He was nailed to a wooden pole and hung there upright. Each breath was excruciating, and it took hours for him to die. Throughout that ordeal, Jesus maintained perfect integrity to God.
Thus, it was on Nissan 14, 33 C.E., that Jesus gave his life as "a ransom in exchange for many." ( Mark 10:45; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6) From heaven, Jehovah could see his Son suffer and die. Why did God allow such a terrible thing to happen? He did so because he loved humankind. Jesus said: "God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) The death of Jesus also teaches us that Jehovah is a God of perfect justice. (Deuteronomy 32:4) Some might wonder why God did not waive his principles of justice that require soul for soul and ignore the price of Adam's sinful course. The reason is that Jehovah always abides by his laws and upholds them, even at great cost to himself.
Jehovah's justice also required that Jesus' death have a happy outcome. After all, would there be justice in allowing faithful Jesus to sleep forever in death? Of course not! The Hebrew Scriptures had prophesied that God's loyal one would not remain in the grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 13:35) He slept in death for parts of three days, and then Jehovah God resurrected him to life as a mighty spirit being. - 1 Peter3:18.
At his death, Jesus surrendered his human life for all time. Upon being raised to life in heaven, he became a life-giving spirit. Moreover, when Jesus ascended to the holiest place in the universe, he was reunited with his dear Father and formally presented to Him the value of his perfect human life. (Hebrews 9:23-28) The value of that precious life could then be applied in behalf of obedient mankind. What does that mean for you?
Next time: CHRIST'S RANSOM AND YOU
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
In the fall of 29 C.E., Jesus went to his relative John to be baptized and thereby present himself to carry out God's will. On that occasion Jehovah anointed Jesus with holy spirit. Jesus thus became the Messiah, or Christ, the one anointed by God. (Matthew 3:16, 17) Then Jesus embarked on his three-and-a-half-year ministry. He traveled throughout his homeland, preaching about God's Kingdom and gathering faithful followers. However, as foretold, opposition to him soon mounted. -Psalm 118:22; Acts 4:8-11.
Jesus courageously exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. and they sought his death. They eventually hatched up an ugly plot that involved betrayal, improper arrest, illegal trial, and a false charge of sedition. Jesus was struck, spat upon, ridiculed and beaten with a whip designed to tear his flesh. The Roman governor Pontius Pilate then sentenced him to death on a torture stake. He was nailed to a wooden pole and hung there upright. Each breath was excruciating, and it took hours for him to die. Throughout that ordeal, Jesus maintained perfect integrity to God.
Thus, it was on Nissan 14, 33 C.E., that Jesus gave his life as "a ransom in exchange for many." ( Mark 10:45; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6) From heaven, Jehovah could see his Son suffer and die. Why did God allow such a terrible thing to happen? He did so because he loved humankind. Jesus said: "God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) The death of Jesus also teaches us that Jehovah is a God of perfect justice. (Deuteronomy 32:4) Some might wonder why God did not waive his principles of justice that require soul for soul and ignore the price of Adam's sinful course. The reason is that Jehovah always abides by his laws and upholds them, even at great cost to himself.
Jehovah's justice also required that Jesus' death have a happy outcome. After all, would there be justice in allowing faithful Jesus to sleep forever in death? Of course not! The Hebrew Scriptures had prophesied that God's loyal one would not remain in the grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 13:35) He slept in death for parts of three days, and then Jehovah God resurrected him to life as a mighty spirit being. - 1 Peter3:18.
At his death, Jesus surrendered his human life for all time. Upon being raised to life in heaven, he became a life-giving spirit. Moreover, when Jesus ascended to the holiest place in the universe, he was reunited with his dear Father and formally presented to Him the value of his perfect human life. (Hebrews 9:23-28) The value of that precious life could then be applied in behalf of obedient mankind. What does that mean for you?
Next time: CHRIST'S RANSOM AND YOU
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.20.2011
Chapter 7-WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
WHY THE MESSIAH WOULD DIE
The prophecy recorded at Daniel 9:24-26 foretold that the Messiah-God's Anointed One-would fulfill a great purpose. He would come to earth "to terminate the transgression, and to finish off sin, and to make atonement for error, and to bring in righteousness" forever. The Messiah would remove the condemnation of death from faithful mankind. But how would he do this? The prophecy explains that he would be "cut off," or put to death.
The ancient Israelites were familiar with the idea of atonement for error. In their worship under the Law that God gave them through Moses, they regularly offered up animal sacrifices. These remind the people of Israel that humans need something to atone for, or cover, their sins. The apostle Paul summarized the principle in this way: "Unless blood is poured out no forgiveness takes place." (Hebrews 9:22) Christians are not under the Mosaic Law with its requirements, such as sacrifices. (Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:16, 17) They also know that animal sacrifices cannot provide permanent and complete forgiveness of sins. Instead, these sacrificial offerings foreshadowed a far more valuable sacrifice-that of the Messiah, or Christ. (Hebrews 10:4, 10; Galatians 3:24) Yet, you may ask, 'Was it really necessary for the Messiah to die?"
Yes, the Messiah had to die if mankind was to be saved. To understand why, we must think back to the garden of Eden and try to grasp the enormity of what Adam and Eve lost when they rebelled against God, They also enjoyed a direct relationship with him. But when they rejected Jehovah's rulership, they lost all of the and brought sin and death upon the human race. -Romans 5:12.
It was as though our first parents had squandered a vast fortune, plunging themselves into a pit of debt. Adam and Eve passed that debt onto their offspring. Because we were not born perfect and sinless, every one of us is sinful and dying. When we get sick or say something hurtful that we wish we could take back, we are experiencing the effects of our inherited debt -human imperfection. (Romans 7:21-25) Our only hope lies in regaining what Adam lost. However, we cannot earn perfect human life. Since all imperfect humans commit sin, all of us earn death, not life. -Romans 6:23.
Yet, could something be offered in exchange for the life that Adam forfeited? God's standards of justice demands balance, "soul for soul." (Exodus 21:23) So a life had to be offered to pay for the life that was lost. Not just any life would suffice. Psalm 49:7, 8 says of imperfect humans: "Not one of them can by any means redeem even a brother, nor give to God a ransom for him; ( and the redemption price of their soul is so precious that it has ceased to time indefinite)." Is the situation therefore hopeless? No, indeed.
In the Hebrew language, the word"ransom" signifies the sum paid to redeem a captive and also denotes equivalency. Only a man with perfect human life could offer up the equivalent of what Adam lost. After Adam, the only perfect man born on earth was Jesus Christ. Hence, the Bible calls Jesus "the last Adam" and assures us that Christ "gave himself a corresponding ransom for all." (1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6) Whereas Adam passed death on to his children, Jesus' legacy is life eternal. First Corinthians 15:22 explains: "Just as Adam all are dying, so also in the Christ all will be made alive." Appropriately, then, Jesus is called "Eternal Father." -Isaiah 9:6, 7.
Next time: HOW THE RANSOM WAS PAID
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
The prophecy recorded at Daniel 9:24-26 foretold that the Messiah-God's Anointed One-would fulfill a great purpose. He would come to earth "to terminate the transgression, and to finish off sin, and to make atonement for error, and to bring in righteousness" forever. The Messiah would remove the condemnation of death from faithful mankind. But how would he do this? The prophecy explains that he would be "cut off," or put to death.
The ancient Israelites were familiar with the idea of atonement for error. In their worship under the Law that God gave them through Moses, they regularly offered up animal sacrifices. These remind the people of Israel that humans need something to atone for, or cover, their sins. The apostle Paul summarized the principle in this way: "Unless blood is poured out no forgiveness takes place." (Hebrews 9:22) Christians are not under the Mosaic Law with its requirements, such as sacrifices. (Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:16, 17) They also know that animal sacrifices cannot provide permanent and complete forgiveness of sins. Instead, these sacrificial offerings foreshadowed a far more valuable sacrifice-that of the Messiah, or Christ. (Hebrews 10:4, 10; Galatians 3:24) Yet, you may ask, 'Was it really necessary for the Messiah to die?"
Yes, the Messiah had to die if mankind was to be saved. To understand why, we must think back to the garden of Eden and try to grasp the enormity of what Adam and Eve lost when they rebelled against God, They also enjoyed a direct relationship with him. But when they rejected Jehovah's rulership, they lost all of the and brought sin and death upon the human race. -Romans 5:12.
It was as though our first parents had squandered a vast fortune, plunging themselves into a pit of debt. Adam and Eve passed that debt onto their offspring. Because we were not born perfect and sinless, every one of us is sinful and dying. When we get sick or say something hurtful that we wish we could take back, we are experiencing the effects of our inherited debt -human imperfection. (Romans 7:21-25) Our only hope lies in regaining what Adam lost. However, we cannot earn perfect human life. Since all imperfect humans commit sin, all of us earn death, not life. -Romans 6:23.
Yet, could something be offered in exchange for the life that Adam forfeited? God's standards of justice demands balance, "soul for soul." (Exodus 21:23) So a life had to be offered to pay for the life that was lost. Not just any life would suffice. Psalm 49:7, 8 says of imperfect humans: "Not one of them can by any means redeem even a brother, nor give to God a ransom for him; ( and the redemption price of their soul is so precious that it has ceased to time indefinite)." Is the situation therefore hopeless? No, indeed.
In the Hebrew language, the word"ransom" signifies the sum paid to redeem a captive and also denotes equivalency. Only a man with perfect human life could offer up the equivalent of what Adam lost. After Adam, the only perfect man born on earth was Jesus Christ. Hence, the Bible calls Jesus "the last Adam" and assures us that Christ "gave himself a corresponding ransom for all." (1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6) Whereas Adam passed death on to his children, Jesus' legacy is life eternal. First Corinthians 15:22 explains: "Just as Adam all are dying, so also in the Christ all will be made alive." Appropriately, then, Jesus is called "Eternal Father." -Isaiah 9:6, 7.
Next time: HOW THE RANSOM WAS PAID
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 7-WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
CHOSEN FOR A SPECIAL PURPOSE
As we have previously learned in this book, Jesus had a prehuman existence. He is called God's "only begotten Son" because Jehovah created him directly. God thereafter used Jesus to bring all other things into existence. (John 3:18; Colossians 1:16) Jesus was especially fond of humankind. (Proverbs 8:30, 31) No wonder Jehovah chose his only-begotten Son to serve a special purpose when mankind came under the condemnation of death!
When pronouncing sentence on Adam, Eve and Satan in the garden of Eden, God spoke of the future Rescuer as a "seed." This Seed, or offspring, would come to undo the terrible ills that Satan the Devil, "the original serpent," had brought about. In fact, the promised Seed would crush Satan and all those who followed him. -Genesis 3:15; 1 John 3:8; Revelation 12:9.
Over the centuries, God gradually revealed more about the Seed, also called the Messiah.
Next time: WHY THE MESSIAH WOULD DIE
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
As we have previously learned in this book, Jesus had a prehuman existence. He is called God's "only begotten Son" because Jehovah created him directly. God thereafter used Jesus to bring all other things into existence. (John 3:18; Colossians 1:16) Jesus was especially fond of humankind. (Proverbs 8:30, 31) No wonder Jehovah chose his only-begotten Son to serve a special purpose when mankind came under the condemnation of death!
When pronouncing sentence on Adam, Eve and Satan in the garden of Eden, God spoke of the future Rescuer as a "seed." This Seed, or offspring, would come to undo the terrible ills that Satan the Devil, "the original serpent," had brought about. In fact, the promised Seed would crush Satan and all those who followed him. -Genesis 3:15; 1 John 3:8; Revelation 12:9.
Over the centuries, God gradually revealed more about the Seed, also called the Messiah.
Next time: WHY THE MESSIAH WOULD DIE
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.19.2011
Chapter 7-WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
ONE spring afternoon nearly 2,000 years ago, a Romans centurion watched three men die slow, agonizing deaths. That soldier especially noted one of them -Jesus Christ. Jesus had been nailed to a wooden stake. The midday sky blackened as the moment of his death approached. When he died, the earth shook violently, and the soldier exclaimed: "Certainly this man was God's Son." -Mark 15:39.
God's Son! That soldier was right. He had just witnessed the most important event every to occur on the earth. On earlier occasions, God himself had called Jesus his beloved Son. (Matthew 3:17; 17:5) Why had Jehovah allowed his Son to die! Because this was God's means of saving mankind from sin and death.
Next time: CHOSEN FOR A SPECIAL PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
God's Son! That soldier was right. He had just witnessed the most important event every to occur on the earth. On earlier occasions, God himself had called Jesus his beloved Son. (Matthew 3:17; 17:5) Why had Jehovah allowed his Son to die! Because this was God's means of saving mankind from sin and death.
Next time: CHOSEN FOR A SPECIAL PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - 6 WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE
BEWARE OF SATAN'S TACTICS!
Satan seeks to cause us to practice sin willfully. (1 John 3:8) Is there any way to avoid being a victim of his schemes? Yes, but this requires that we fight inclinations toward willful sin. This is not easy because our inborn tendency to sin is very strong. (Ephesians 2:3) Paul had to put up a real struggle. Why? Because sin resided in him. If we want God's approval, we too must fight the sinful tendencies within us. -Romans 7:14-24; 2 Corinthians 5:10.
Since Satan constantly looks for opportunities to lure us into breaking God's laws, our fight against sin is not easy. (1 Peter 5:8) Showing concern for fellow Christians, Paul said: I am afraid that somehow, as the serpent seduced Eve by its cunning,your minds might be corrupted away from sincerity and the chastity that are due the Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:3) Satan uses similar tactics today. He tries to sow seeds of doubt about Jehovah's goodness and the benefits of obeying God's commands. The Devil tries to take advantage of our inherited sinful tendencies and have us pursue a course of pride, greed, hatred and prejudice.
One of the devices the Devil uses against us is the world, which is lying in his power. (unless you are one of God's servants/worship God and are protected by him) (1 John 5:19) If we are not careful, corrupt and dishonest people in the world around us will pressure us into a sinful course that violates God's moral standards. (1 Peter 4:3-5) Many ignore God's laws and even brush aside the proddings of their conscience, eventually rendering it insensitive. (Romans 2:14, 15; 1 Timothy 4:1, 2) Some gradually adopt a course that even their imperfect conscience formerly did not permit them to take. Romans 1:24-32; Ephesians 4:17-19.
Living a clean life is an achievement in this world. To please our Creator, however, more is required. We must also have faith in God and feel a responsibility toward him. (Hebrews 11:6) "If one knows how to do what is right and yet does not do it, it is a sin for him," wrote the disciple James. (James 4:17) Yes, deliberately ignoring God and his commandments is itself a form of sin.
Satan is very likely to stimulate opposition to your pursuit of the knowledge of God through your study of the Bible. It is sincerely hoped that you will not let such pressures prevent you from practicing what is right. (John 16:2) Though many rulers put faith in Jesus during his ministry, they did not confess him because they were fearful of being shunned in their community. ( John 12:42, 43) Satan ruthlessly tries to intimidate anyone seeking the knowledge of God. However, you should always remember and appreciate the wonderful things Jehovah has done. You may even be able to help opposers to gain the same appreciation.
As long as we are imperfect, we will sin. (1 John 1:8) Nevertheless, we have help in fighting this battle. Yes, it is possible to come off victorious in our fight against the wicked one, Satan the Devil. (Romans 5:21) At the end of Jesus' ministry on earth, he encouraged his followers with these words: "In the world you are having tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world." (John 16:33) Even for imperfect humans, it is possible to conquer the world with God's help. Satan has no hold on those who oppose him and 'subject themselves to God.' (James 4:7; 1 John 5:18) As we shall see, God has provided a way out of bondage to sin and death.
Next time:WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Satan seeks to cause us to practice sin willfully. (1 John 3:8) Is there any way to avoid being a victim of his schemes? Yes, but this requires that we fight inclinations toward willful sin. This is not easy because our inborn tendency to sin is very strong. (Ephesians 2:3) Paul had to put up a real struggle. Why? Because sin resided in him. If we want God's approval, we too must fight the sinful tendencies within us. -Romans 7:14-24; 2 Corinthians 5:10.
Since Satan constantly looks for opportunities to lure us into breaking God's laws, our fight against sin is not easy. (1 Peter 5:8) Showing concern for fellow Christians, Paul said: I am afraid that somehow, as the serpent seduced Eve by its cunning,your minds might be corrupted away from sincerity and the chastity that are due the Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:3) Satan uses similar tactics today. He tries to sow seeds of doubt about Jehovah's goodness and the benefits of obeying God's commands. The Devil tries to take advantage of our inherited sinful tendencies and have us pursue a course of pride, greed, hatred and prejudice.
One of the devices the Devil uses against us is the world, which is lying in his power. (unless you are one of God's servants/worship God and are protected by him) (1 John 5:19) If we are not careful, corrupt and dishonest people in the world around us will pressure us into a sinful course that violates God's moral standards. (1 Peter 4:3-5) Many ignore God's laws and even brush aside the proddings of their conscience, eventually rendering it insensitive. (Romans 2:14, 15; 1 Timothy 4:1, 2) Some gradually adopt a course that even their imperfect conscience formerly did not permit them to take. Romans 1:24-32; Ephesians 4:17-19.
Living a clean life is an achievement in this world. To please our Creator, however, more is required. We must also have faith in God and feel a responsibility toward him. (Hebrews 11:6) "If one knows how to do what is right and yet does not do it, it is a sin for him," wrote the disciple James. (James 4:17) Yes, deliberately ignoring God and his commandments is itself a form of sin.
Satan is very likely to stimulate opposition to your pursuit of the knowledge of God through your study of the Bible. It is sincerely hoped that you will not let such pressures prevent you from practicing what is right. (John 16:2) Though many rulers put faith in Jesus during his ministry, they did not confess him because they were fearful of being shunned in their community. ( John 12:42, 43) Satan ruthlessly tries to intimidate anyone seeking the knowledge of God. However, you should always remember and appreciate the wonderful things Jehovah has done. You may even be able to help opposers to gain the same appreciation.
As long as we are imperfect, we will sin. (1 John 1:8) Nevertheless, we have help in fighting this battle. Yes, it is possible to come off victorious in our fight against the wicked one, Satan the Devil. (Romans 5:21) At the end of Jesus' ministry on earth, he encouraged his followers with these words: "In the world you are having tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world." (John 16:33) Even for imperfect humans, it is possible to conquer the world with God's help. Satan has no hold on those who oppose him and 'subject themselves to God.' (James 4:7; 1 John 5:18) As we shall see, God has provided a way out of bondage to sin and death.
Next time:WHAT GOD HAS DONE TO SAVE MANKIND
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.18.2011
Chapter - 6 WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE
HOW SIN AND DEATH SPREAD
Satan had apparently succeeded in his scheme to receive human veneration. Yet, he could not keep his worshipers alive. When sin started to work in the first human couple, they could no longer pass on perfection to their offspring. Like an inscription carved in stone, sin was deeply engraved into the genes of our first parents. Thus, they could produce only imperfect offspring. Since all their children were conceive after Adam and Eve sinned, their offspring inherited sin and death. -Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12.
Today, however, many do not think that they are sinners. In some parts of the world, the concept of inherited sin is generally unknown. But that is no proof that sin does not exist. A boy with a dirty face may claim that he is clean, and may be convinced otherwise only after he looks into a mirror. The ancient Israelites were like such a boy when they received God's Law through His prophet Moses. The Law made it plain that sin existed. "Really I would not have come to know sin if it had not been for the Law," explains the apostle Paul. (Romans 7:7-12) Like the boy looking into a mirror, by using the Law to look at themselves, the Israelites could see that they were unclean in Jehovah's eyes.
By looking into the mirror of God's Word and noting its standards,m we can see that we are imperfect. (James 1:23-25) For example, consider what Jesus Christ told his disciples about loving God and their neighbor, as recorded at Matthew 22:37-40. How often humans miss the mark in these areas! Many do not feel even a twinge of conscience over failing to show love for God or for their neighbors. -Luke 10:29-37.
Next time: BEWARE OF SATAN'S TACTICS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life
Satan had apparently succeeded in his scheme to receive human veneration. Yet, he could not keep his worshipers alive. When sin started to work in the first human couple, they could no longer pass on perfection to their offspring. Like an inscription carved in stone, sin was deeply engraved into the genes of our first parents. Thus, they could produce only imperfect offspring. Since all their children were conceive after Adam and Eve sinned, their offspring inherited sin and death. -Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12.
Today, however, many do not think that they are sinners. In some parts of the world, the concept of inherited sin is generally unknown. But that is no proof that sin does not exist. A boy with a dirty face may claim that he is clean, and may be convinced otherwise only after he looks into a mirror. The ancient Israelites were like such a boy when they received God's Law through His prophet Moses. The Law made it plain that sin existed. "Really I would not have come to know sin if it had not been for the Law," explains the apostle Paul. (Romans 7:7-12) Like the boy looking into a mirror, by using the Law to look at themselves, the Israelites could see that they were unclean in Jehovah's eyes.
By looking into the mirror of God's Word and noting its standards,m we can see that we are imperfect. (James 1:23-25) For example, consider what Jesus Christ told his disciples about loving God and their neighbor, as recorded at Matthew 22:37-40. How often humans miss the mark in these areas! Many do not feel even a twinge of conscience over failing to show love for God or for their neighbors. -Luke 10:29-37.
Next time: BEWARE OF SATAN'S TACTICS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life
Chapter - 6 WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE
HOW THE PLOT WAS CARRIED OUT
Satan carefully laid out a plot that he thought would lead to his ruling all humans and receiving their worship. He decided to induce the first human couple, Adam and Eve, to sin against God. Jehovah had given our first parents knowledge that would have led to life everlasting. They knew that their Creator was good because he had placed them in the beautiful garden of Eden. Adam especially felt the goodness of his heavenly Father when God gave him a beautiful . (Genesis 1:26, 29; 2:7-9, 18-23) The continued life of the first human pair depended on obedience to God.
God commanded Adam: "From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction. But as for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad you must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die." (He did not mean right away, just that they had to live out their life as an imperfect couple until they did die of old age, which is what ALL of US have to do) (Genesis 2:16, 17) As the Creator, Jehovah God had the right to set moral standards and to define what was good and what was bad for his creatures. His command was reasonable because Adam and Eve were free to eat fruit from all the other trees in the garden. They could show their appreciation for Jehovah's rightful rulership by obeying this law instead of possibly setting their own moral standards.
The Devil schemed to draw the first humans away from God. To lure them into taking his side. Satan lied. Using a serpent, much as a ventriloquist uses a dummy, the Devil asked Eve: "Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?" When Eve cited God's command, Satan declared: "You positively will not die." He then imputed bad motives to Jehovah by saying: "God knows that in the very day of your eating from it your eyes are bound to be opened and you are bound to be like God, knowing good and bad." (Genesis 3:1-5) The Devil thus suggested that God was withholding something good. What a slanderous assault on the truthful, loving heavenly Father, Jehovah!
Eve looked at the tree again , and its fruit now seemed especially desirable. So she took the fruit and ate it. Later, her husband willfully joined her in this sinful act of disobedience to God. (Genesis 3:6) Although Eve was deceived, both she and Adam supported Satan's scheme to rule the human race. In effect, they became his accomplices. -Romans 6:16; 1 Timothy 2:14.
Adam and Eve had to face the consequences of their actions. They did not become like God, with special knowledge. Instead, they felt ashamed and hid themselves. Jehovah called Adam to account and pronounced this sentence: "In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. For dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19) "In the day" that our first parents ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, they were sentenced by God and died from his standpoint. Then they were expelled from Paradise and began their descent into physical death.
Next time: HOW SIN AND DEATH SPREAD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Satan carefully laid out a plot that he thought would lead to his ruling all humans and receiving their worship. He decided to induce the first human couple, Adam and Eve, to sin against God. Jehovah had given our first parents knowledge that would have led to life everlasting. They knew that their Creator was good because he had placed them in the beautiful garden of Eden. Adam especially felt the goodness of his heavenly Father when God gave him a beautiful . (Genesis 1:26, 29; 2:7-9, 18-23) The continued life of the first human pair depended on obedience to God.
God commanded Adam: "From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction. But as for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad you must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die." (He did not mean right away, just that they had to live out their life as an imperfect couple until they did die of old age, which is what ALL of US have to do) (Genesis 2:16, 17) As the Creator, Jehovah God had the right to set moral standards and to define what was good and what was bad for his creatures. His command was reasonable because Adam and Eve were free to eat fruit from all the other trees in the garden. They could show their appreciation for Jehovah's rightful rulership by obeying this law instead of possibly setting their own moral standards.
The Devil schemed to draw the first humans away from God. To lure them into taking his side. Satan lied. Using a serpent, much as a ventriloquist uses a dummy, the Devil asked Eve: "Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?" When Eve cited God's command, Satan declared: "You positively will not die." He then imputed bad motives to Jehovah by saying: "God knows that in the very day of your eating from it your eyes are bound to be opened and you are bound to be like God, knowing good and bad." (Genesis 3:1-5) The Devil thus suggested that God was withholding something good. What a slanderous assault on the truthful, loving heavenly Father, Jehovah!
Eve looked at the tree again , and its fruit now seemed especially desirable. So she took the fruit and ate it. Later, her husband willfully joined her in this sinful act of disobedience to God. (Genesis 3:6) Although Eve was deceived, both she and Adam supported Satan's scheme to rule the human race. In effect, they became his accomplices. -Romans 6:16; 1 Timothy 2:14.
Adam and Eve had to face the consequences of their actions. They did not become like God, with special knowledge. Instead, they felt ashamed and hid themselves. Jehovah called Adam to account and pronounced this sentence: "In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. For dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19) "In the day" that our first parents ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, they were sentenced by God and died from his standpoint. Then they were expelled from Paradise and began their descent into physical death.
Next time: HOW SIN AND DEATH SPREAD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.17.2011
Chapter - 6 WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE
A SINISTER PLOT
A criminal tries to cover his tracks. This has also been true of the one responsible for a crime that has resulted in the death of billions. He has maneuvered things to shroud human death in mystery. Jesus Christ identified this criminal when He told those seeking to kill Him: 'You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father. That one was a manslayer when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because truth is not in him." -John 8:31, 40, 44.
Yes, the Devil is a malicious "manslayer." The Bible reveals that he is a real person, not just the evil in someone's heart. (Matthew 4:1-11) Although created as a righteous angel, "he did not stand fast in the truth." How fitting it is that he is named Satan the Devil! (Revelation 12:9) He is called "Satan," or "resister," because he has opposed and resisted Jehovah. This criminal is also called "Devil," meaning "slanderer." for he has blasphemously misrepresented God.
What motivated Satan to rebel against God? Greed. He greedily coveted the worship Jehovah received from humans. The Devil did not reject the desire to receive such worship, which rightly belonged only to the Creator. (Compare Ezekiel 28:12-19) Instead, the angel who became Satan nurtured this greedy desire until it became fertile and gave birth to sin. -James 1:14, 15.
We have identified the culprit whose criminal act has led to the death of humans. But what is the specific cause of human death? The Bible says: "The sting producing death is sin." (1 Corinthians 15:56) And what is sin? To understand this word, let us consider the meaning it carried in the original languages of the Bible. The Hebrew and Greek verbs commonly translated "to sin" mean "to miss" in the sense of missing a mark or not reaching a goal. What mark do all of us miss? The mark of perfect obedience to God. How, though, was sin introduced into the world?
Next time:HOW THE PLOT WAS CARRIED OUT
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
A criminal tries to cover his tracks. This has also been true of the one responsible for a crime that has resulted in the death of billions. He has maneuvered things to shroud human death in mystery. Jesus Christ identified this criminal when He told those seeking to kill Him: 'You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father. That one was a manslayer when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because truth is not in him." -John 8:31, 40, 44.
Yes, the Devil is a malicious "manslayer." The Bible reveals that he is a real person, not just the evil in someone's heart. (Matthew 4:1-11) Although created as a righteous angel, "he did not stand fast in the truth." How fitting it is that he is named Satan the Devil! (Revelation 12:9) He is called "Satan," or "resister," because he has opposed and resisted Jehovah. This criminal is also called "Devil," meaning "slanderer." for he has blasphemously misrepresented God.
What motivated Satan to rebel against God? Greed. He greedily coveted the worship Jehovah received from humans. The Devil did not reject the desire to receive such worship, which rightly belonged only to the Creator. (Compare Ezekiel 28:12-19) Instead, the angel who became Satan nurtured this greedy desire until it became fertile and gave birth to sin. -James 1:14, 15.
We have identified the culprit whose criminal act has led to the death of humans. But what is the specific cause of human death? The Bible says: "The sting producing death is sin." (1 Corinthians 15:56) And what is sin? To understand this word, let us consider the meaning it carried in the original languages of the Bible. The Hebrew and Greek verbs commonly translated "to sin" mean "to miss" in the sense of missing a mark or not reaching a goal. What mark do all of us miss? The mark of perfect obedience to God. How, though, was sin introduced into the world?
Next time:HOW THE PLOT WAS CARRIED OUT
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE?
SCIENTISTS do not know why humans grow old and die. It seems that our cells should keep on being renewed and that we should live forever. The book Hyojun Soshikagaku (Standard Histology) says: "It is a great mystery how the aging of cells is related to the aging and death of an individual." Many scientist believe that there is a "natural, inherent" limit to life. Do you think they are right? (no, it is God, due to the disobedience of Adam and Eve)
Humans have always yearned for longevity and have even tried to attain immorality. Since the fourth century B.C.E., drugs supposedly designed to make immorality possible attracted the attention of Chinese nobles. Some later Chinese emperors tried so-called elixirs of life-made from mercury-and died! Around the globe, people believe that death is not the end of their existence. (poor delusional fools ) Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and others all have bright hopes of a life after death. In Christendom, many envisage an afterlife of heavenly bliss.
Concepts of happiness after death reflect a longing for eternal life. "Even time indefinite he has put in their heart," says the Bible concerning the idea of eternity that God implanted in us. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) He created the first humans with the prospect that they could live forever on earth. (Genesis 2:16, 17) Why, then, do humans die? How was death introduced into the world? The knowledge of God sheds light on these questions. -Psalm 119:105.
Next time: A SINISTER PLOT
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Humans have always yearned for longevity and have even tried to attain immorality. Since the fourth century B.C.E., drugs supposedly designed to make immorality possible attracted the attention of Chinese nobles. Some later Chinese emperors tried so-called elixirs of life-made from mercury-and died! Around the globe, people believe that death is not the end of their existence. (poor delusional fools ) Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and others all have bright hopes of a life after death. In Christendom, many envisage an afterlife of heavenly bliss.
Concepts of happiness after death reflect a longing for eternal life. "Even time indefinite he has put in their heart," says the Bible concerning the idea of eternity that God implanted in us. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) He created the first humans with the prospect that they could live forever on earth. (Genesis 2:16, 17) Why, then, do humans die? How was death introduced into the world? The knowledge of God sheds light on these questions. -Psalm 119:105.
Next time: A SINISTER PLOT
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.16.2011
Chapter 5 - WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
WHOLE-SOULED WORSHIP
In your heart, you may want to worship God acceptably. If so, you must have Jehovah's view of worship. The disciple James emphasized that it is God's viewpoint that is important, not ours, James said: 'The form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this: "to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation, and to keep oneself without spot from the world." (James 1:27) With a desire to please God, each of us needs to examine our worship to make sure that it is not contaminated by ungodly practices or that we are not omitting something that he considers vital. -James 1:26..
Only clean, whole-souled worship pleases Jehovah. (Matthew 22:37; Colossians 3:23) When the nation of Israel gave God less than that, he said: "A son, for his part, honors a father; and a servant, his grand master. So if I am a father, where is the honor tome? And if I am a grand master, where is the fear of me?" They were offending God by offering him blind, lame and sick animals in sacrifice, and he rejected such acts of worship. (Malachi 1:6-8) Jehovah is worthy of the purest form of worship and accepts nothing less than exclusive devotion. -Exodus 20:5; Proverbs 3:9; Revelation 4:11.
The Samaritan woman who spoke with Jesus was seemingly interested in worshiping God in the divinely approved way. If that is our desire, we will avoid all contaminating teachings and practices. (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) Instead, we will exert ourselves to get an accurate knowledge of God and do his will. We will adhere closely to his requirements for acceptable worship. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4) Jehovah's Witnesses are striving to do just that, and they warmly urge you to share with them in worshiping God "with spirit and truth." (John 4:24) Jesus said: "The Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him." (John 4:23) It is hoped that you are such a person. Like that Samaritan woman, undoubtedly you would like to have everlasting life. (John 4:13-15) But you see people grow old and die. The next chapter explains why.
Next time: WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
In your heart, you may want to worship God acceptably. If so, you must have Jehovah's view of worship. The disciple James emphasized that it is God's viewpoint that is important, not ours, James said: 'The form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this: "to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation, and to keep oneself without spot from the world." (James 1:27) With a desire to please God, each of us needs to examine our worship to make sure that it is not contaminated by ungodly practices or that we are not omitting something that he considers vital. -James 1:26..
Only clean, whole-souled worship pleases Jehovah. (Matthew 22:37; Colossians 3:23) When the nation of Israel gave God less than that, he said: "A son, for his part, honors a father; and a servant, his grand master. So if I am a father, where is the honor tome? And if I am a grand master, where is the fear of me?" They were offending God by offering him blind, lame and sick animals in sacrifice, and he rejected such acts of worship. (Malachi 1:6-8) Jehovah is worthy of the purest form of worship and accepts nothing less than exclusive devotion. -Exodus 20:5; Proverbs 3:9; Revelation 4:11.
The Samaritan woman who spoke with Jesus was seemingly interested in worshiping God in the divinely approved way. If that is our desire, we will avoid all contaminating teachings and practices. (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) Instead, we will exert ourselves to get an accurate knowledge of God and do his will. We will adhere closely to his requirements for acceptable worship. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4) Jehovah's Witnesses are striving to do just that, and they warmly urge you to share with them in worshiping God "with spirit and truth." (John 4:24) Jesus said: "The Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him." (John 4:23) It is hoped that you are such a person. Like that Samaritan woman, undoubtedly you would like to have everlasting life. (John 4:13-15) But you see people grow old and die. The next chapter explains why.
Next time: WHY DO WE GROW OLD AND DIE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 5 - WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
KEEP GOD"S HIGH STANDARDS
God wants as his worshipers those who comply with his high moral standards. Some in ancient Corinth mistakenly thought that God would tolerate immoral behavior. We can see how wrong they are by reading 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10. If we are to worship God acceptably, we must please him in word and deed. Is your form of worship enabling you to do that? -Matthew 15:8; 23:1-3.
Our dealings with other people should also reflect God's standards. Jesus Christ encouraged us to treat others as we would like to have them treat us, for this is part of true worship. (Matthew 7:12) Note what he also said about displaying brotherly love: 'By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves." (John 13:35) Jesus' disciples must love one another and do what is good toward fellow worshipers and others. -Galatians 6:10.
Next time: WHOLE-SOULED WORSHIP
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
God wants as his worshipers those who comply with his high moral standards. Some in ancient Corinth mistakenly thought that God would tolerate immoral behavior. We can see how wrong they are by reading 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10. If we are to worship God acceptably, we must please him in word and deed. Is your form of worship enabling you to do that? -Matthew 15:8; 23:1-3.
Our dealings with other people should also reflect God's standards. Jesus Christ encouraged us to treat others as we would like to have them treat us, for this is part of true worship. (Matthew 7:12) Note what he also said about displaying brotherly love: 'By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves." (John 13:35) Jesus' disciples must love one another and do what is good toward fellow worshipers and others. -Galatians 6:10.
Next time: WHOLE-SOULED WORSHIP
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.15.2011
Chapter 5 - WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
GUARD AGAINST OFFENDING GOD
Unless we are careful, we may do something unacceptable to God. For example, the apostle John fell at the feet of an angel "to worship him." But the angel warned: "Be careful! Do not do that! All I am is a fellow slave of you and of your brothers who have the work of witnessing to Jesus. Worship God." (Revelation 19:10) Do you therefore see the need to make sure that your worship is not contaminated by any kind of idolatry? -1 Corinthians 10:14.
When some Christians began to practice religious customs that did not please God, Paul asked: "How is it that you are turning back again to the weak and beggarly elementary things and want to slave for them over again? You are scrupulously observing days and months and seasons and years. I fear for you, that somehow I have toiled to no purpose respecting you." (Galatians 4:8-11) Those individuals had gained a knowledge of God but later erred by observing religious customs and holy days that are unacceptable to Jehovah. As Paul said, we need to "keep making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord." -Ephesians 5:10
We must make sure that we avoid religious holidays and other customs that violate God's principles. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) For instance, Jesus said of his followers: "They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world." (John 17:16) Is your religion involved in ceremonies and holidays that violate the principle of neutrality toward this world's affairs? Or do adherents of your religion sometimes share in customs and festivals that may involve conduct matching that described by the apostle Peter? He wrote: "The time that has passed by is sufficient for you to have worked out the will of the nations when you proceeded in deeds of loose conduct, lusts, excesses with wine, revelries, drinking matches, and illegal idolatries." -1 Peter 4:3.
The apostle John emphasized the need to avoid any practices that reflect the spirit of the ungodly world around us. John wrote: "Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; because everything in the world-the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life-does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world. Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remain forever." (1 John 2:15-17) Did you notice that those who 'do the will of God' will remain forever? Yes, if we do God's will and avoid activities that reflect this world's spirit, we can have the hope of everlasting life!
Next time: KEEP GOD'S HIGH STANDARDS
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Unless we are careful, we may do something unacceptable to God. For example, the apostle John fell at the feet of an angel "to worship him." But the angel warned: "Be careful! Do not do that! All I am is a fellow slave of you and of your brothers who have the work of witnessing to Jesus. Worship God." (Revelation 19:10) Do you therefore see the need to make sure that your worship is not contaminated by any kind of idolatry? -1 Corinthians 10:14.
When some Christians began to practice religious customs that did not please God, Paul asked: "How is it that you are turning back again to the weak and beggarly elementary things and want to slave for them over again? You are scrupulously observing days and months and seasons and years. I fear for you, that somehow I have toiled to no purpose respecting you." (Galatians 4:8-11) Those individuals had gained a knowledge of God but later erred by observing religious customs and holy days that are unacceptable to Jehovah. As Paul said, we need to "keep making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord." -Ephesians 5:10
We must make sure that we avoid religious holidays and other customs that violate God's principles. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) For instance, Jesus said of his followers: "They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world." (John 17:16) Is your religion involved in ceremonies and holidays that violate the principle of neutrality toward this world's affairs? Or do adherents of your religion sometimes share in customs and festivals that may involve conduct matching that described by the apostle Peter? He wrote: "The time that has passed by is sufficient for you to have worked out the will of the nations when you proceeded in deeds of loose conduct, lusts, excesses with wine, revelries, drinking matches, and illegal idolatries." -1 Peter 4:3.
The apostle John emphasized the need to avoid any practices that reflect the spirit of the ungodly world around us. John wrote: "Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; because everything in the world-the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life-does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world. Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remain forever." (1 John 2:15-17) Did you notice that those who 'do the will of God' will remain forever? Yes, if we do God's will and avoid activities that reflect this world's spirit, we can have the hope of everlasting life!
Next time: KEEP GOD'S HIGH STANDARDS
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 5 - WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
COMMANDS OF MEN AS DOCTRINES
When Jesus was on earth, many Jews did not act in accord with the accurate knowledge of God. They therefore lost the opportunity to have a clean standing before Jehovah. Concerning them, Paul wrote: "I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge." (Romans 10:2) They decided for themselves how to worship God instead of listening to what he said.
The Israelites originally practiced God-given pure religion, but it became contaminated with teachings and philosophies of men. (Jeremiah 8:8, 9; Malachi 2:8, 9; Luke 11:52) Although the Jewish religious leaders known as Pharisees thought their worship was acceptable to God, Jesus told them: "Isaiah aptly prophesied about you hypocrites, as it is written, 'This people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far removed from me. It is vain that they keep worshiping me, because they teach as doctrines commands of men.' " -Mark 7:6, 7.
Is it possible that we might do as the Pharisees did? This could happen if we followed religious traditions handed down to us instead of examining what God has said about worship. Warning of this very real danger, Paul wrote: 'The inspired utterance says definitely that in later periods of time some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances and teachings of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) So it is not enough merely to assume that our worship pleases God. Like the Samaritan woman who met Jesus, we may have inherited our way of worship from our parents. But we need to be certain that we are doing things that meet with God's approval.
Next time: GUARD AGAINST OFFENDING GOD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
When Jesus was on earth, many Jews did not act in accord with the accurate knowledge of God. They therefore lost the opportunity to have a clean standing before Jehovah. Concerning them, Paul wrote: "I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge." (Romans 10:2) They decided for themselves how to worship God instead of listening to what he said.
The Israelites originally practiced God-given pure religion, but it became contaminated with teachings and philosophies of men. (Jeremiah 8:8, 9; Malachi 2:8, 9; Luke 11:52) Although the Jewish religious leaders known as Pharisees thought their worship was acceptable to God, Jesus told them: "Isaiah aptly prophesied about you hypocrites, as it is written, 'This people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far removed from me. It is vain that they keep worshiping me, because they teach as doctrines commands of men.' " -Mark 7:6, 7.
Is it possible that we might do as the Pharisees did? This could happen if we followed religious traditions handed down to us instead of examining what God has said about worship. Warning of this very real danger, Paul wrote: 'The inspired utterance says definitely that in later periods of time some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading inspired utterances and teachings of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) So it is not enough merely to assume that our worship pleases God. Like the Samaritan woman who met Jesus, we may have inherited our way of worship from our parents. But we need to be certain that we are doing things that meet with God's approval.
Next time: GUARD AGAINST OFFENDING GOD
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.14.2011
Chapter 5 - WHOSE WORSHIP DOES GOD ACCEPT?
ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE - A PROTECTION
Doing God's will requires an accurate knowledge of both Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Such knowledge leads to everlasting life. Surely, then, all of us will want to take seriously the matter of gaining accurate knowledge from God's Word,the Bible. Some say that there is no need for concern as long as we are sincere and zealous in our worship. Others claim, 'The less you know, the less is expected of you.' Yet, the Bible encourages us to increase in the knowledge of God and his purposes. -Ephesians 4:13; Philippians 1:9; Colossians 1:9.
Such knowledge is a protection against contamination of our worship. The apostle Paul spoke of a certain spirit creature who pretends to be "an angel of light." (2 Corinthians 11:14) Thus disguised, this spirit creature - Satan - tries to mislead us into doing things contrary to God's will. Other spirit creatures associated with Satan have also been polluting people's worship, for Paul said: "The things which the nations sacrifice they sacrifice to demons, and not to God." (1 Corinthians 10:20) Likely, many have thought they were worshiping in the right way, although they were not doing what God wanted. They were being mislead into unclean false worship. We will learn more about Satan and the demons later, but these enemies of God have definitely been polluting mankind's worship
If you knew that someone had deliberately poisoned your water supply, would you go on drinking from it? Surely, you would take immediate action to find a source of safe, pure water. Well, an accurate knowledge of God's Word equips us to identify true religion and to reject impurities that make worship unacceptable to God.
Next time: COMMANDS OF MEN AS DOCTRINES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting life, 1995
Doing God's will requires an accurate knowledge of both Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Such knowledge leads to everlasting life. Surely, then, all of us will want to take seriously the matter of gaining accurate knowledge from God's Word,the Bible. Some say that there is no need for concern as long as we are sincere and zealous in our worship. Others claim, 'The less you know, the less is expected of you.' Yet, the Bible encourages us to increase in the knowledge of God and his purposes. -Ephesians 4:13; Philippians 1:9; Colossians 1:9.
Such knowledge is a protection against contamination of our worship. The apostle Paul spoke of a certain spirit creature who pretends to be "an angel of light." (2 Corinthians 11:14) Thus disguised, this spirit creature - Satan - tries to mislead us into doing things contrary to God's will. Other spirit creatures associated with Satan have also been polluting people's worship, for Paul said: "The things which the nations sacrifice they sacrifice to demons, and not to God." (1 Corinthians 10:20) Likely, many have thought they were worshiping in the right way, although they were not doing what God wanted. They were being mislead into unclean false worship. We will learn more about Satan and the demons later, but these enemies of God have definitely been polluting mankind's worship
If you knew that someone had deliberately poisoned your water supply, would you go on drinking from it? Surely, you would take immediate action to find a source of safe, pure water. Well, an accurate knowledge of God's Word equips us to identify true religion and to reject impurities that make worship unacceptable to God.
Next time: COMMANDS OF MEN AS DOCTRINES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting life, 1995
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