Conclusion of Grateful for Spiritual Enlightenment

Prior to the 1930's, many of God's people were somewhat uncertain about their hop for future life.  Some had thoughts about heavenly life but were fascinated by Bible teachings about a paradise earth.  At the Washington, D.C., convention in 1935, it was thrilling to learn that the great multitude, or great crowd, of Revelation chapter  7 is a class with an earthly hope.  Since then, the gathering of the great crowd has moved ahead with ever greater momentum.  Are we not thankful that the identity of the great crowd is no mystery to us?  The reality of people being gathered in great numbers from all nations, tribes and tongues motivates us to quicken our step as we keep pace with Jehovah's organization.

The big issue that should concern human society was highlighted at the St.Louis, Missouri convention in 1941. It is universal domination, or sovereignty.  This is the issue that must be settled soon, and the great and fear-inspiring day for that to be done comes on apace!  Also brought to the fore in 1941 was the related issue of integrity, which allows us to show where we individually stand with regard to God's sovereignty.

At the 1950 international convention in New York city, the princes of Isaiah 32:1, 2 were precisely identified.  It was an electrifying moment when brother Frederick Franz spoke on this subject and explained that princes of the new earth were among us.  At that convention and at subsequent ones, there have been numerous flashes of spiritual light.  (Psalm 97:11) How grateful we are that our path "is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter!"

Next time: Moving Ahead in Our Ministry

The Watchtower, 2001