"Food at the Proper Time"

Another avenue that Jehovah uses to speak to us today is identified by Jesus at Matthew 24:45-47.  There he spoke of the spirit-anointed Christian congregation-"the faithful and discreet slave" appointed to provide spiritual "food at the proper time." As individuals, the members of this class are Jesus' "domestics." These, along with "a great crowd" of "other sheep," receive encouragement and guidance. (Revelation 7:9; John 10:16) Much of this food at the proper time comes in the form of printed publications, such as The Watchtower, the Awake! And other publications. Additional spiritual food is dispensed in the form of talks and demonstrations at conventions, assemblies and congregation meetings.

The information provided by "the faithful and discreet slave" is designed to strengthen our faith and train our  perceptive powers. (Hebrews 5:14)  Such counsel may be general in nature so as to allow each one to make a personal application.  From time to time, we also receive counsel that deals with specific aspects of our conduct.  What attitude  should we have if we are really listening to  what the spirit says through the slave class?  The apostle  Paul answers: "Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive."  (Hebrews 13:27)  True, all involved in this process are imperfect men.  Still, Jehovah takes delight in using his human servants through imperfect, to guide us in this time of the end.

Next time: Guidance From Our Conscience

The Watchtower, 2000