False Tongues Condemned

Isaiah prophesied that God's people would condemn any tongue that rose up against them.  In the first century, Christians were often the object of misrepresentation, being depicted as evildoers.  The words found at Acts 16:20, 21 are typical of such accusations:  "These men are disturbing our city very much, . . . and they are publishing customs that is not lawful for us to take up or practice, seeing we are Romans."  On another occasion, religious opposers tried to incite the city rulers to act against Christ's  followers, asserting:  "These men that have overturned the inhabited earth are present here also, [and they] act in opposition to the decrees of Caesar."  (Acts 17:6, 7)  The apostle Paul was labeled "a   pestilent fellow" and the leader of a sect that was stirring up seditions "throughout the inhabited earth." -Acts 24:2-5.

Accordingly, it does not surprise us that true Christians today have faced gross misrepresentations, malicious slander and smear campaigns.  How is it that we condemn such verbal attacks? -Isaiah 54:17.

Such accusations and propaganda are often refuted by the fine conduct of Jehovah's Witnesses.  (1 Peter 2:12) When Christians prove themselves to be law-abiding citizens and moral people who show genuine concern for the welfare of their fellow humans, the accusations hurled against them are shown  up as false.  Our good conduct speaks for itself.  As observers note our perseverance  in fine works, they are often moved to glorify our heavenly Father and to  acknowledge the superior way of life of his servants. -Isaiah 60:14; Matthew 5:14-16.

In addition to our godly conduct, it may at times be necessary to defend with boldness our Scriptural  position.  One way is by appealing to governments and courts for protection.  (Esther 8:3; Acts 22:25-29; 25:10-12)  When Jesus was on earth, on occasion he openly contended with his critics, refuting their false accusations.  (Matthew 12:34-37; 15:1-11)  In imitation of Jesus, we welcome the opportunity to give others a clear explanation of our heartfelt convictions.  (1 Peter 3:15)  May we never allow ridicule at school, at work, or from unbelieving relatives to stop us from making known the truth of God's Word. -2 Peter 3:3, 4)

Next time: Jerusalem -"A Burdensome Stone"

The Watchtower, 2007