Constantly Moving Forward

In the first century, the Christian congregation was constantly moving forward, opening up new territories, making disciples, and acquiring greater understanding of God's purposes.  The early Christians kept in step with the spiritual enlightenment provided through divinely inspired letters.  Spurred on by visits from the apostles and others, they accomplished their ministry.  This is well documented in the Christian Greek Scriptures. - Acts 10:21, 22; 13:46, 47; 2 Timothy 1:13; 4:5; Hebrews 6:1-3; 2 Peter 3:17, 18.

Like the early Christians, Jehovah's present-day Witnesses have developed from small beginnings.  (Zechariah 4:8-10)  Since the late 19th century, there has been clear evidence that God's spirit rests on his organization. Because we have  relied, not on human power, but on guidance by holy spirit, we  have continued to progress in our understanding of the Scriptures and in doing God's will.  (Zechariah 4:6) Now that we are in "the last days," it is vital that we keep in step with Jehovah's progressive organization.  (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Doing so enables us to keep our hope alive and to share in giving a witness about God's established Kingdom before the final end overtakes this system of things. -Matthew 24:3-14.

Within out ranks are those who began their association with Jehovah's organization in the 1920's, '30's' and '40's.'   During those early years, who among us could have imagined the remarkable growth and the progressive development of the organization up to this day?  Think of the milestones that have been reached in our modern-day history!  It is spiritually rewarding, indeed, to reflect on what Jehovah has accomplished by means of his theocratically organized people. 

David of old was deeply impressed when he contemplated Jehovah's wonderful works.  "Were I inclined to tell and speak of them," he said, "they become more numerous than I can recount."  (Psalm 40:5)  We face the same limitation, being unable to relate the many great and praiseworthy deeds of Jehovah in our day.  Nevertheless, let us consider three areas wherein Jehovah's organization has moved ahead: (1) progressive spiritual enlightenment, (2) an improved and expanded ministry, and (3) timely adjustments in organizational procedures. 

Next time: Grateful for Spiritual Enlightenment

The Watchtower,  2001