10.31.2014

Giving Emotionally


Providing for our parents and grandparents involved more than simply caring for their material needs.  All of us have emotional needs.  Everyone, including older ones, has a desire to be loved,to feel needed and wanted, and to be a valued member of the family. 

Mary, who lives in Kenya, has cared for you elderly mother-in-law for three years.  Mary says:  "Apart from providing for her material needs, we always talk with her.  Mother is not able to do much around the house, but we talk and have become close friends.  Sometimes we talk about God, sometimes about the people back home. Although she is over 90 years old, her memory is very good.  She remembers  and talks about life when she was a little girl, in the days before 1914." 

Mary continues: "It is not easy to care for an old person, but having her with us has brought about rewards. We have peace and harmony in the family.  My giving to her has stimulated a spirit of giving in others in the family.  My husband has more respect for me.  And if Mother hears anyone speak harshly to me, she quickly speaks up to defend me. No one can say a sharp word to me with her around!" 

Next time: Giving Spiritually

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997

Giving Materially


Those who serve God know that it is important to provide materially for close family members.  The apostle Paul admonished: "If anyone does not provide for those who are his own, and especially  for those who are members of his household, he has disowned the faith and is worse than a person without faith." -1 Timothy 5:8.

Tunji and Joy live in West Africa.  Though hard-pressed financially, they invited joy's elderly parents to move in with them.  The father was ill and eventually died. Tunji reflects:  "When Papa died, Mama hugged my wife and said:  'You did all that was humanly possible.  In no way should you feel any guilt for Papa's death.'  Though we miss Papa, we know we bought the best medicine for him and always tried  to make him feel wanted and needed; we did our best to meet our God-given responsibility.  That satisfaction is there."

Of course, not everyone is in a position to help other materially. Said a man who lives in Nigeria:  "If a man cannot fend for himself, how then can he fend for another person?" In many lands the situation may even worsen in the years to come. According to a United Nations forecast, soon half the population of sub-Saharan Africa will be living in absolute poverty. 

If you find yourself in poor economic circumstances, you may take comfort from the true story of a need widow.  When Jesus  was on earth, he observed a widow make a small donation to the temple treasury.  She gave only  "two small coins of very little value." Still, knowing her situation, Jesus said:  "I tell you truthfully, This widow, although poor, dropped in more than they all did.  For all these dropped in gifts out of their surplus, but this woman out of her want dropped in all the means of living she had." - Luke 21:1-4. 

Similarly, if we do our best in caring for our parents or grandparents materially, though it may be little, Jehovah observes and appreciates that.  He does not expect us to do beyond what we are able to do. Probably our parents or grandparents will feel likewise. 

Next time: Giving Emotionally

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997


The Rewards of Honoring Elderly Parents


GENUINE worshipers of God respect, honor, and care for their elderly parents because they love them. It is part of their worship.  The Bible states:  "Let [children or grandchildren] learn first to practice godly devotion in their own household and to keep paying a due compensation to their parents and grandparents,  for this is acceptable in God's sight." (1 Timothy 5:4) Whether we are young or old, it is fitting that we offer "due compensation" to our parents and grandparents.  In this way we show appreciation for their love, their hard work, and their caring for us over the years.  Why, we owe our very life to our parents!

Notice that paying due compensation to parents and grandparents is "acceptable in God's sight."  It is linked to our "godly devotion."  Thus, by carrying out this  counsel, we are rewarded, knowing that we are doing what is pleasing to God.  That brings us joy. 

There is joy in giving to others, especially when we give to those who have generously given to us.  (Acts 20:35)  What a reward there is, then, in acting in harmony with the Bible principle:  "Give you father and your mother cause for delight, let her who bore you rejoice!" -Proverbs 23:25, The New English Bible.

How can we render due compensation to our parents and grandparents?  In three ways:  materially, emotionally, and spiritually. Each brings it rewards.

Next time: Giving Materially

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997

10.30.2014

Honor the Elderly-Hard Times for the Elderly


MAMA ONIYAN, who is 68 years old, lives in a major West African  City.  When she was younger, she dreamed of enjoying her twilight years in quiet retirement, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.  Instead she spends her days selling cold drinking water under the tropical sun.  The  little she earns helps her to survive. Her two sons live in another country far away.  It has been a long time since they sent her any money.  

In times past, the elderly in Africa were highly esteemed.  They were respected for their experience  and knowledge, along with the wisdom and judgment these often bring. They helped rear grandchildren.  Younger ones sought their advice and their approval.  People lived according to Biblical counsel:  "Before gray hair you should rise up, and you must show consideration for the person of an old man [or, woman]." -Leviticus 19:32.

Times have changed. Poverty, inflation, unemployment, and mass migration to the cities have left many of the elderly to fen for themselves. Director of HelpAge, Kenya, Camillus Were, says:  "The tradition of supporting  and caring for the elderly has become weaker and weaker."

Of course, the weakening of family ties is not unique to African countries.  Speaking of Japan, the Guardian Weekly reports:  "Filial devotion  used to be the keystone of a Japanese system of values bequeathed by Confucianism, but it has not survived  urbanisation and the loosening of family ties: today, 85 percent of Japanese die in hospitals or old people's homes." 

Whatever the situation, those who genuinely want to please God strive to honor their parents.  They heed the Bible's counsel: "Honor your father and your mother . . .that it may go well with you and you may endure a long time on the earth." (Ephesians 6:2, 3) Though it is not always easy to honor and care for elderly parents, it can bring rich rewards. 

Next time:The Rewards of Honoring Elderly Parents

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997

What God's Kingdom Means to Her


Recently, a ten-year-old girl named Folake was assigned to write an essay for school on the subject "What I Love Most in This World."  Folake chose to write about why she loves telling others about God's Kingdom.

"God's Kingdom is a real government," Folake explained.  "But  it's invisible, so you can't see it-even if you wear glasses!" 

Folake went on to write about blessings of the Kingdom that she especially looks forward to.  Mentioning some of the problems  that the Kingdom will solve, she wrote, "I am sad when I see homeless people living on the streets" as well as "kinds starving to death in all different parts of the world.."  She added, "I'm happy again when I read Isaiah 65:21."  Regarding humans who will live under the rulership of God's Kingdom, that verse promises:  "They will  build houses and live in them, and they will plant vineyards and eat their fruitage." 

Folake said that she also looks forward to the time when God, by means of his Kingdom, will do away with all sickness.  In her essay, she quoted Revelation 21:4, which says that God "will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore."  She concluded  by stating again that speaking about Jehovah and his Kingdom is what she loves most in this world. Clearly, God's  Kingdom has a special place in the heart of this young girl.

Next time: Honor the Elderly-Hard Times for the Elderly

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

GOD'S KINGDOM-What Will It Mean for You?


You likely gathered from the preceding articles that God's Kingdom means a lot to Jehovah's Witnesses. And perhaps you were intrigued by some of the future blessings of God's Kingdom that were discussed. At the same time, you may wonder if such promises are too good to be true.

You are wise to be cautious of believing everything you hear.  (Proverbs 14:15) In some ways, your caution could be compare to that of the ancient Beroeans.  When they were first told about the good news of the Kingdom, the Beroeans accepted what they heard, but not simply because they wanted it to be true. Rather, they carefully examined the Scriptures  "to see whether these words were sol."  (Acts 17:11)  In other words,  the Beroeans compared the good news  that they heard with what the Scriptures  say. In time, they became convinced that the good news was in fact, based solidly on God's Word. 

Jehovah's Witnesses warmly invite you to do the same.  By means of our free Bible study program, we offer you the same opportunity to compare what Jehovah's Witnesses believe about God's Kingdom with what the Bible teaches. 

In addition to your learning about God's Kingdom, you study of the Bible can help you find  answers to some of life's biggest questions. 

*Where did we come from?
*What is the purpose of life?
*Why does God allow suffering?
*What happens when we die?
*Will the earth be destroyed?
*What is the key to a happy family life?

Above all, studying the Bible will help you to "draw close to God." (James 4:8) In turn, the closer you draw to God, the  more you will see how God's Kingdom can mean good things for you-not just now but forever.  Jesus himself said in prayer to his Father:  "This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ." -John 17:3.

Next time: What God's Kingdom Means to Her

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014


10.29.2014

WHAT THE KINGDOM WILL DO FOR FAITHFUL HUMANS


Long before he came to earth, Jesus lived in heaven with his Father.  The Father used the Son  to bring everything into existence-from the mind-boggling heavens with their countless stars and galaxies to our beautiful planet and the wildlife that inhabits it.  (Colossians 1:15, 16) Out of it all, though, Jesus became "especially fond of " humankind. -Proverbs 8:31.

Love for humans characterized Jesus' ministry.  From the very start, he made it clear that he had come to earth to "declare the good news" to those in need.  (Luke 4:18)  But Jesus did more than talk about helping people. Time and again, he demonstrated his love for humans.  For example, when a large crowd gathered to hear him speak, Jesus "felt pity for them, and he cured their sick ones." (Matthew 14:14)  When a man with a grievous disease expressed faith that Jesus could heal him if he really wanted  to, Jesus was moved by love.  He healed the man, compassionately telling him:  "I want to! Be made clean." (Luke 5:12, 13)  When Jesus saw his friend Mary mourning the death of her brother, Lazarus, Jesus "groaned within himself," became troubled," and "gave way to tears." (John 11:32-36) Then he did the unimaginable-Jesus brought Lazarus back to life although Lazarus had been dead for four days! -John 11:38-44. 

Jesus, of course knew that the relief he offered then was only temporary. He realized that sooner or later, all whom he healed would get sick again and all whom he resurrected would die again.  However, Jesus also knew that God's Kingdom would bring a permanent end to such problems.  That is why Jesus did not just perform  miracles; he also zealously declared "the good news of the Kingdom." (Matthew 9:35)  His miracles demonstrated on a small scale what God's Kingdom will soon do earth wide. Consider what the Bible promises regarding that time>  

When you consider those promises regarding God's Kingdom can you see why  the Kingdom means so much to Jesus? While one earth, he was eager to talk about God's Kingdom to anyone who would listen, for he knew that the Kingdom would bring an end to all the distressing problems we see today. 

Do the Bible's promises regarding the Kingdom appeal to you?  If so, how can you learn more about that Kingdom? Ans what can you do to make sure that you will benefit from its blessings?  The final articles in this series will answer those questions.  

Next time:  GOD'S KINGDOM-What Will It Mean for You?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

WHAT THE KINGDOM WILL DO FOR JESUS' FATHER


Jesus has deep affection for his heavenly Father.  (Proverbs 8:30; John 14:31)  He admires his Father's endearing qualities, such as His love, His compassion, and His justice.  (Deuteronomy 2:4; Isaiah 49:15; 1 John 4:8) Surely, then, Jesus must hate to hear the lies that are spread about his Father-lies such as that God is indifferent to human suffering and that God wants us to suffer.  This is one reason why Jesus was eager  to declare "the good news of the Kingdom"-he knew  that in time the Kingdom would clear his Father's reputation. (Matthew 4:23; 6:9, 10)  How will it do so?  

Through the Kingdom, Jehovah will take dramatic, positive action in behalf of the human family.  "He will  wipe out every tear" from the eyes of faithful human.  Jehovah will eliminate the causes of those tears, seeing to it that "death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." (Revelation 21:3, 4)  By means of the Kingdom, God will eliminate all human suffering."  Little wonder that Jesus was eager to tell people about the Kingdom!  He knew that it would reveal just how powerful and compassionate his Father will is.  (James 5:11) Jesus also knew that the Kingdom would benefit others whom he loves-faithful humans. 

 Next time: WHAT THE KINGDOM WILL DO FOR FAITHFUL HUMANS

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

GOD'S KINGDOM-What It Means to Jesus


As noted in the preceding article, Jesus centered his life on "preaching and declaring the good news of the Kingdom." (Luke 8:1)  He exerted himself, walking hundreds of miles throughout the land of Israel in order to teach people about God's Kingdom.  Jesus' ministry was recorded in the four Gospels, which contain over 100 references to the Kingdom. Most of those references are found in the words of Jesus, and yet they must represent  just a fraction of all that he said about God's Kingdom. -John 21:25. 

Why did the Kingdom mean so much to Jesus when he was on the earth?  For one thing, Jesus knew that God had selected him to be its Ruler.  (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 22:28-30)  But Jesus was not focused on achieving power or glory for himself.  (Matthew 11:29; Mark 10:17, 18)  He promoted the Kingdom for reasons far beyond his own interests. Primarily, Jesus was and is interested in God's Kingdom" because of what it will do for those whom he loves-his heavenly Father and his faithful followers. 

Next time: WHAT THE KINGDOM WILL DO FOR JESUS' FATHER

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

10.28.2014

GOD'S KINGDOM WHAT CAN IT MEAN TO YOU? - Why Be Interested in God's Kingdom?


Millions of people around the world rest their hope on God's Kingdom.  They follow the pattern set by Jesus, who taught his followers to pray: "Thy kingdom come.  Thy will be done." -Matthew 6:10, King James Version. 

Ironically, while many people are keenly interested in God's Kingdom, most religions seem to give little attention to it.  In this regard, historian H.G. Wells noted how remarkable it is that Jesus gave  "enormous  prominence . . .to the teaching of what he called the Kingdom of Heaven"  and yet, said Wells, this teaching has comparative  insignificance in the . . .teaching of most of the Christian churches." 

Unlike those churches, Jehovah's Witnesses put great emphasis on God's Kingdom. Consider: Our main journal, which you are now reading, is published in 220 languages.  Nearly 46 million copies of each issue are printed, making it the most widely distributed magazine in the world.  And what is this journal's principal message?  Notice its full title:  The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah's Kingdom."

Why do Jehovah's Witnesses go to such great lengths to announce or advertise, God's Kingdom?  For one thing, we believe that God's Kingdom is the central message of the most important book in the world-the Bible. Moreover, we are convinced that God's Kingdom is the only real solution to the problems facing humans today.

In directing attention to God's Kingdom, Jehovah's Witnesses are endeavoring to follow the example of Jesus.  While on earth, he made God's Kingdom the focal point of his life and ministry.  (Luke 4:43) Why did the Kingdom mean so much to Jesus?  And what can it mean for you?  We invite you to consider the Bible's answers, as discussed in the following articles. 

Next time: GOD'S KINGDOM  What It Means to Jesus

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

"THE WORD OF GOD ENDURES FOREVER"


Can these manuscripts be useful to Bible students today?  Undoubtedly!  Take as an example the so-called long conclusion of the Gospel of Mark, which in some Bibles follows Mark 16:8.  It appears in the Greek Codex Alexandrinus of the fifth century, the Latin Vulgate, and elsewhere.  However, the two authoritive fourth-century  Greek manuscripts-Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus-both end with Mark 16:8.  The Sinaitic Syriac does not have this long conclusion either, adding further evidence that the long conclusion is a later addition and was not originally part of Mark's Gospel.

Consider another example. In the late  19th century, almost all Bible translations had a spurious Trinitarian addition at 1 John 5:7. However,  this addition does not appear  in the Peshitta, thus proving that the addition at 1 John 5:7 is indeed a corruption  of the Bible text. 

Clearly, as promised, Jehovah God has preserved his Holy Word.  In it we are given this assurance:  "The green grass dries up the blossom withers, but the word of our God endures forever..." (Isaiah 40:8; 1 Peter 1:25)  The version known as the Peshitta plays a humble but important role in the accurate  transmission of the Bible's message to all humanity.

Next time: GOD'S KINGDOM  WHAT CAN IT MEAN FOR YOU?-Why Be Interested in God's Kingdom?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

MORE SYRIAC MANUSCRIPTS DISCOVERED


Until the 19th century, almost all the known Greek copies of the Christian Greek Scriptures were from the fifth century or much later.  For  this reason, Bible scholars were especially interested in such early versions as the Latin Vulgate  and the Syriac Peshitta. At the time, some believed that the Peshitta was the result of  a revision of an older Syriac version.  But no such text was known.  Since the roots of the Syriac Bible go back to the second century, such a version would provide a window on the Bible text at an early stage, and it would surely  be invaluable to Bible scholars!  Was there really an old Syrian version?  Would it be found?

Yes, indeed! In fact, two such previous Syriac manuscripts  were found.  The first is a manuscript   dating from the fifth century. It was among a large number of Syriac manuscripts  acquired by the British Museum in 1842 from a monastery in the Nitrian Desert in Egypt.  It was called the Curetonian Syriac because it was discovered  and published by William Cureton, the museum's assistant keeper of manuscripts.  This precious document contains the four Gospels  in the order of Matthew, Mark, John and Luke.  

The second manuscript that has survived to our day is the Sinaitic Syriac.  Its discovery is linked with the adventurous twin sisters mentioned at the start of this articles. Although Agnes did not have a university degree, she learned eight foreign languages, one of them Syriac.  In 1892, Agnes made a remarkable discovery in the monastery of St. Catherine in Egypt.  There in a dark closet, she found a  Syriac manuscript. According to her own account,  "it had a forbidding look, for it was very dirty, and its leaves were nearly all stuck together through their having remained unturned" for centuries.  It was a palimpsest manuscript of which the original text had been erased and the pages rewritten with a Syriac text about female saints. However, Agnes spotted some of the writing underneath and the words "of Matthew,"  "of Mark," or "of Luke" at the top.  What she had in her hands was an almost complete Syriac code of the four Gospels!  Scholars now believe that this codex was written in the late fourth century.

The Sinaitic Syriac is considered one of the most important Bible manuscripts discovered, right along with such Greek manuscripts as the Codex Sinaiticus and the Codex Vaticanus. It is now generally believed that  both the Curetonian and Sinaitic manuscripts are extant copies of the old Syriac Gospels dating from the late second or early third century.  

Next time: "THE WORD OF OUR GOD ENDURES FOREVER" 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014 

10.27.2014

THE GOOD NEWS TRANSLATED INTO SYRIAC


As the number of Syriac-speaking Christians increased in the second century, there arose a need for the good news to be translated  into their tongue.  Thus, it appears that Syriac, not Latin, was the first vernacular into which parts  of the Christian Greek Scriptures were translated.  By about 170 C.E., the Syrian writer Tatian (c. 120-17 C.E.) combined the four canonical Gospels and produced, in Greek or Syriac, the work commonly called the Diatessaron, a Greek word meaning "through [the] four [Gospels]."  Later Epraem the Syrian (c. 310-373 C.E.) produced a commentary on the Diatessaron, thus confirming that it was in general use among Syrian Christians. 

The Diatessaron of great interest to us today.  Why? In the 19th century, some scholars argued that the Gospels were written as late as the second century between 130 C.E. and 170 C.E., and thus could be authentic accounts of Jesus' life. However, ancient manuscripts of the Diatessaron that have come to light since then have proved  that the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John were already in wide circulation by the middle of the second century.  They must therefore have been written earlier. In addition , since Tatian, when compiling the Diatessaron, did not make  use of any of the so-called apocryphal gospels int he way he did the four accepted Gospels, it is evident that the apocryphal gospels were not viewed  as reliable or canonical.  

By the start of the fifth-century, a translation of the Bible into Syriac came into general use in northern Mesopotatmia. Likely made during the second or third century C.E., this translation included all the books of the Bible except 2 Peter, 2 and 3 John, Jude, and Revelation.  It is known as the Peshitta meaning "Simple" or "Clear." The Peshitta is one of the oldest and most important witnesses to the early transmission of the Bible text. 

Interestingly, one manuscript of the Peshitta has a written date corresponding to 459/460 C.E., making it the oldest Bible manuscript with a definite date. In about 508 C.E., a revision of the Peshitta was made that included the five missing books.  It came to be known  as the Philoxenian Version.

Next time: MORE SYRIAC MANUSCRIPTS DISCOVERED 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

The Syriac Peshitta


For nine days in 1892, the twin sisters of Agnes Smith Lewis and Margaret Dunlop Gibson journeyed by camel through the desert to St. Catherine's Monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai.  Why would these two women in their late 40's undertake such a journey at a time when travel in what was called the Orient was so dangerous?  The answer may help strengthen your belief in the accuracy of the Bible.

JUST before returning to heaven, Jesus commissioned his disciples  to bear witness  about him "in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the most distant part of the earth." (Acts 1:8) This the disciples did with zeal and courage.  Their ministry in Jerusalem, however, soon stirred up strong opposition, resulting in the martyrdom of Stephen.  Many of Jesus' disciples found refuge  in Antioch, Syria, one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, some  350 miles (550 km) north of Jerusalem.-Acts 11:19.  

In Antioch, the disciples continued to preach "the good news" about Jesus, and many non-Jews  became believers.  (Acts 11:20, 21) Though Greek was the common language within the walls o Antioch, outside its gates and in the province, the language of the people was Syriac. 

Next time: THE GOOD NEWS TRANSLATED INTO SYRIAC

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

THE PEOPLE WHO BENEFITED FROM TRUE JUSTICE


To the Israelites, Moses  posed this question: "What great nation has righteous regulations and judicial decisions like this entire Law that I am putting to you today?" (Deuteronomy 4:8)  Indeed, no other nation enjoyed those benefits. Under the reign of King Solomon, who in his youth sought to carry out Jehovah's Laws, the people "lived in security" and enjoyed peace and prosperity, "eating and drinking and rejoicing." -1 Kings 4:20, 25.

Regrettably, the Israelites eventually turned their backs on their God. Through the prophet Jeremiah, God declared:  "Look! They have rejected the word of Jehovah, and what wisdom do they have?"  (Jeremiah 8:9) The result was that Jerusalem became  "the bloodguilty city" full of "detestable things."  Finally it was brought to ruin and lay desolate for 70 years.  -Ezekiel 22:2; Jeremiah 25:11. 

The prophet Isaiah lived through troublesome times in Israel's history.  Looking back, he was moved to declare a great truth about Jehovah God and His Law:  "When there are judgments from you for the earth, the inhabitants of the land learn about righteousness." -Isaiah 26:9. 

To his delight, Isaiah was inspired to prophesy about the rule of the Messianic King, Jesus Christ, saying:  "He will  not judge by what appears to his eyes, nor reprove simply according to what his ears hear. He will judge the lowly with fairness, and with uprightness he will give reproof in behalf of the meek ones of the earth." (Isaiah 11:3, 4)  What wonderful prospects for all who become subjects of the Messianic  King under God's Kingdom! -Matthew 6:10.

Next time: The Syriac Peshitta-A Window on the World of Early Bible Translations

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

10.26.2014

Did God's Law Authorize Revenge?


The words "eye for eye, tooth for tooth," found in the Bible, have caused no little contention.  (Exodus 21:24)  To some people, it is nothing less than divine approval of revenge.  But such thinking conflicts with God's command:  "You must not take vengeance nor hold a grudge  against he sons of your people."  (Leviticus 19:18)  How, then, are we to understand those words in Exodus? 

Exodus 21:22 presents a scenario in which two men are fighting and one of them strikes a pregnant woman, causing her to deliver prematurely. If mother and baby survived, the injured woman's husband would not be authorized to strike back. Rather, the man who struck the new mother would have to "pay the damages imposed on him by the husband of the woman; and he must  pay it through the judges."  In other words, the judges in court would make the striker pay a fine to the husband of the injured mother.  If she or her child died because of the injuries, those same judges would have the person put to death. 

In this case, the court, not the victim, applied "life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth . . ." (Exodus 21:2, 2) That principle reminded judges that punishment  should be neither excessive  nor insufficient .  Bible scholar Richard Elliott Friedman states: "The basic principle appears to be that punishment should correspond to the crime and never exceed it."

What gave rise to the idea that God's  Law authorized personal acts of revenge?  It is noteworthy that at Matthew 5:8, 39, we find Jesus' words:  "You heard that it was said: Eye for eye and tooth for tooth,' However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him."  It seems that by Jesus day, some religious teachers had included the 'law of retaliation' in their oral tradition as approval for personal vengeance. Jesus, however, made clear that such a teaching had no support in God's Law to Israel.    Note: That verse that says vengeance is mine, sayeth the Lord, means it is his to get vengeance, not us. Remember that. And he can do much more to that person better than we can. 

Next time: THE PEOPLE WHO BENEFITED FROM TRUE JUSTICE

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

PRINCIPLES THAT LED TO FAIR DECISIONS


Though the judges selected were to be wise and capable men, they were not left to make judgments by relying on their own abilities or ingenuity. Jehovah God gave them principles or guidelines  by which they could reach decisions. Here are some directions that were given to the Israelite judges. 

Make a complete investigation.  Through Moses, God instructed Israelite judges:  "When you hear a case between  your brothers, you are to judge with righteousness." (Deuteronomy 1:16)  Judges can render a fair verdict only if they have all  the facts of a case.  For that reason God instructed those handling judicial matters:  "You should look into the matter, making a thorough investigation and inquiry."   Judges in court had to make sure that the charge in a criminal case was "confirmed to be true" before preceding. -Deuteronomy 13:14; 17:4. 

Hear the testimony of witnesses.  The statements of witnesses were vital to an investigation.  God's Law stipulated:  "No single witnesses may convict another for any error or any sin that he may commit. On the testimony of three witnesses the matter should be established.: (Deuteronomy 19:15) To the witnesses, God's Law commanded:  "You must not spread a report that is not true.  Do not cooperate with a wicked one by becoming a malicious witness." -Exodus 23:1.

Require honesty in court proceedings.  The penalty for lying in court gave pause to all involved:  "The judges will thoroughly investigate, and if the man who testified is a false witness and has brought a false charge against his brother, you should do to him just as he had schemed  to do to his brother, and you must remove what is bad from your midst." (Deuteronomy 19:18, 19) So if a man lied in court to take another's inheritance, he stood to lose an equal amount. If he lied to have someone that he knew was innocent put to death, he would forfeit his own life.  This guideline  was a strong motivation to speak the truth.  

Judge impartially.  Once they had all the available evidence, the judges deliberated to reach a verdict. At this point, an outstanding detail of God's  Law became especially important:  "You must not show partiality to the poor or show preference to the rich.  With justice you should judge your fellow man." (Leviticus 19:15)  In all cases, judges were to decide a matter on its true merits, not on the outward appearance or social position of those involved.

These principles, plainly stated centuries ago in God's Law to Israel, can still be useful in courtrooms today.  When they are followed, mistrials and miscarriages of justice can be avoided.  

Next time: Did God's Law  Authorize Revenge?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

Was God's Law to Israel Just and Fair?


SOME time ago, criminal courts in a Western land accepted faulty evidence against two men accused of murder and sentenced them to death.  Once the error came to light, lawyers worked hard and gained freedom for one of the convicted.  But the best attorneys could do nothing for the other-he has already been executed. 

Since such travesties can arise in any legal system, the Bible urges:  "Justice-justice you should pursue." (Deuteronomy 16:20)  Where judges follow that injunction, citizens benefit.  God's Law gave ancient Israel a legal system based on impartiality and fairness.  Let us look at that Law to see whether "all [God's] ways are justice." -Deuteronomy 32:4. 

JUDGES "WISE, DISCREET, AND EXPERIENCED" 

People's interests are served when jurists are competent, fair, and above corruption. God's Law to Israel placed a high value on judges of that caliber.  Early in the wilderness trek, Moses was told to look for "capable  men fearing God, trustworthy men hating dishonest profit," to serve as judges. (Exodus 18:21, 22) Forty years later, he reemphasized the need for "wise, discreet, and experienced men" to judge the people. -Deuteronomy 1:13-17.

Centuries later, King Jehoshaphat" of Judah commanded the judges:  "Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment.  Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God, there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking." (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7)  The king thus reminded the judges that if prejudice or greed affected their decision, God would hold them responsible for any resulting harm. 

When Israel's judges lived up to those high standards, the nation felt protected and secure.  But God's Law also provided a set of principles that helped judges to reach fair decisions, even in the most difficult cases.  What are some of those principles?


Next time: PRINCIPLES THAT LED TO FAIR DECISIONS 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

10.25.2014

EARTH FOREVER OUR HOME


Jesus Christ in his famous Sermon on the Mount said:  "Happy are the mild-tempered, since they will inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:5) Later in that same sermon, Jesus revealed the means by which the earth would be rescued from ruin.  He instructed his followers to pray:  "Let Thy Kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."  Yes, God's Kingdom, or government, will accomplish God's purpose for the earth. -Matthew 6:10. 

Regarding the remarkable changes the Kingdom will bring, God declares:  "Look! I am making all things new." (Revelation 21:5) Does this mean that God will replace the earth with a new one?  No, for there is really nothing inherently wrong with our planet.  Rather, God will do away with those responsible for the planetary crisis, "those ruining the earth," that is, the present-day human system with its governmental structure.  This will be replaced by "a new heaven and a new earth"-a heavenly government, God's Kingdom, ruling over a new earthly society. -Revelation 21:2.

To eliminate the ecological debt caused by man, God will rebalance the ecological budget, so to speak. Describing what God will do, the psalmist was inspired to write: "You care for the earth, making it abundantly fruitful and very rich."  With a regulated climate and, above all, God's blessing, the earth will become a paradise yielding plenty of food. -Psalm 65:9-13. 

According to his secretary Pyarelal, Mohandas Ghandi, the late spiritual leader of India, observed:  "Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need but not for every man's greed."  God's Kingdom will address the root cause of earth's problems by bringing about a change in people's hearts.  The prophet Isaiah foretold that under Kingdom rule,  people "will not cause  any harm or any ruin" to one another or to the earth.  (Isaiah 11:9) In fact, millions of people today from all walks of life are already learning about God's elevated standards.  They are being taught  to love God and neighbor, to show a thankful spirit, to care  for the environment, to conserve natural resources, and to lead a life supportive of the Creator's purpose. They are being prepared for life in a paradise earth. -Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 22:37-39; Colossians 3:15. 

The creation account in Genesis concludes with the words:  "God saw everything he had made, and look! It was good." (Genesis 131) Truly, the earth is far too precious to end up in environmental bankruptcy. We are comforted in knowing that our planet's future rests safely in the hands of our loving Creator, Jehovah God.  He promises:  "The righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever in it." (Psalm 7:29) May you be counted among "the righteous," who will call earth their eternal home. 

Next time: Was God's Law to Israel Just and Fair?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

WHAT THE CREATOR PURPOSES


The Bible book of Genesis tells in great detail how God carefully crafted the earth. Initially, the earth was described as "formless and desolate, and there was darkness upon the surface."  Yet, specific mention is made of "waters"-essential for life-existing on the planet.  (Genesis 1:2) God then said:  "Let there be light." (Genesis 1:3) Evidently the sun's rays penetrated the atmosphere, and there came to be light visibly on earth for the first time.  The formation of dry land and seas is then recounted.  (Genesis 1:9, 10) Next, "grass, seed-bearing plants and trees yielding fruit" made their appearance.  (Genesis 1:12)  Elements needed for processes and cycles that are vital for life-such as photosynthesis-were thus in place.  What was the purpose behind such extensive preparation?

The ancient prophet Isaiah described God as "the One who formed the earth, its Maker who firmly established it, who did not create it simply for nothing, but formed it to be inhabited." (Isaiah 45:18) Clearly, God's purpose is  for the earth to be inhabited by man forever.

Sadly, man has misused God's beautiful gift to the point of ruination. Yet, the Creator's purpose  has not changed.  A man of old said:  "God is not a mere man who tells lies, nor a son of man who changes his mind.  When he says something, will he not do it?" (Numbers 23:19) In fact, rather than allow the earth to be ruined , the time is rapid approaching for God to "bring to ruin those  ruining the earth." -Revelation 11'18. 

Next time: EARTH FOREVER OUR HOME

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

A POINT OF NO RETURN?


Is the earth headed for a point of no return? Some scientists feel that the effect of changes can be difficult to predict.  Because of this, they are concerned that we might be approaching "tipping points"  where sudden and unanticipated climate changes could bring disastrous results. 
Consider for example, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.  Some believe that with sustained global warming, there is a point where the melt of this ice sheet could be irreversible.  This is because ice cover naturally reflects  the sun's rays.  But as the ice sheet thins and shrinks, the ocean below, which is less reflective, is eventually exposed.  The dark ocean surface absorbs  more heat, which in turn leads to greater melting. A self-feeding, runaway cycle could be created.  The resulting rise in sea levels from the melt water could spell disaster for hundreds of millions of people. 

MOUNTING ECOLOGICAL DEBT

Various road maps have been drawn up to deal with the "planetary emergency" we now face.  One long-standing strategy has been called sustainable development, which means promoting economic and social growth within the ecological limits of the planet. What have been the results?  Sadly, like the global financial debt crisis, earth's ecological debt continues to mount unabated.  Humans continue to consume our planet's resources faster than these can be replenished naturally.  Can something be done?  One ecologist frankly acknowledged:  "In a sense, we don't have any clue how to manage the planet successfully."  The situation very much fits the Bible's assessment:  "It does not belong to man is walking even to direct his step." -Jeremiah 10:23.

On the other hand, the Bible assures us that God, the Creator, will not allow man to bankrupt the planet environmentally. At Psalm 115:16, we read:  "The earth [God] has given to the sons of men." Yes, our planet is a "good gift" from our heavenly Father.  (James 1:17) Would we expect God's gift to be temporary in nature, as though it came with an expiration date? Of course not!  That is evident from the inherent design of our planet. 

Next time: WHAT THE CREATOR PURPOSES

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

10.24.2014

Will Man Ruin the Earth Beyond Repair?


"A generation is going, and a generation is coming, but the earth remains forever." -KING SOLOMON, 11th CENTURY B.C.E."

To the ancient Bible writer, the fleeting matter of man stood in sharp contrast with the permanence of the earth.  Indeed, for thousands of years, generations have come and gone, and yet the planet Earth has proved to be remarkably resilient and stable in its ability to host life-until n ow.

The years since World War II have been dubbed by some as the Great Acceleration.  In a single lifetime, people have seen remarkable advances in transportation, communication, and other technologies, which have brought unprecedented economic changes.  Many enjoy a standard of living once thought possible.  In the meantime, the earth's population has nearly tripled.

All of this, however, has not come without cost. Human activities are said to be  pushing the earth beyond its natural cycles. In fact, some scientists say we have entered a new geological epoch called the Anthropocene-an age in which humans are making an increasingly notable impact on the planet.

The Bible foretold a time when man would 'ruin the earth.' (Revelation 11;18) Some wonder if we are living in such a time.  How much further damage will be done?  Is there a point of no return?  Indeed, will man ruin the earth beyond repair?

Next time: A POINT OF NO RETURN?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2014

"The Tents of Judah" Saved


Read Zechariah 12:7, 8. In  ancient Israel, tents were a distinctive feature in the land, at times being used by shepherds  and agricultural workers.  Such people would be the first affected and would be in need of protection if an enemy nation came to attack the city of Jerusalem.  The expression "the tents of Judah" indicates that the anointed servants in our time are out in the open field, so to speak, not in fortified cities.  There they fearlessly defend the interests of the Messianic Kingdom. Jehovah of armies will save the "the tents of Judah first" because these are in the direct line of Satan's attack. 

Indeed, the historical record proves that Jehovah is defending these anointed ambassadors of the Kingdom in their "tents" out in the field.  He keeps them from "stumbling" in that he makes them strong and courageous like David, the warrior king.

Read Zechariah 12:9. Why does Jehovah "seek to annihilate all the nations"? Because they persistently oppose the Messianic Kingdom.  For harassing and persecuting God's people, they stand condemned. Soon Satan's earthly agents will undertake a final attack on God's true worshipers, which will lead  to the world situation described in the Bible as Har-Magedon.  (Revelation 16:13-16)  Responding to that assault, the Supreme Judge will defend his servants and sanctify his name among the nations. -Ezekiel 38:14-18, 22, 23. 

Satan has no weapon that can weaken the faith of quench the zeal of God's people worldwide.  Our spiritual peace, which results from Jehovah's saving power, is "the hereditary possession of the servants of Jehovah." (Isaiah 54:17) No one can forcibly deprive us of our peace and spiritual prosperity.  (Psalm 118:6) Satan will continue  to fan the flames of opposition and try to stir up tribulation.  Our loyal endurance in the face of reproach is proof that God's spirit  is resting upon us.  (1 Peter 4:14) The good news of Jehovah's established Kingdom is being proclaimed worldwide. Like stunning deterrents, many symbolic "slingstones" of opposition have been hurled against God's people.  Yet, in Jehovah strength his servants overcome  such stones, nullifying their effect.  (Zechariah 9:15) The anointed remnant and their loyal companions will not be put out of action!

We look forward to complete deliverance from the Devil's attacks.  What comfort we have in the guarantee  that "any weapon formed against us will not succeed, and any tongue at all that will rise up against us in the judgment we will condemn'!


Next time: Will  Man Ruin the Earth Beyond Repair?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

Jerusalem-"A Burdensome Stone"


Zechariah's prophecy sheds light on the reason why the nations take their stand against true Christians. Note what Zechariah 12:3 says:  "It must occur in that day that I shall make Jerusalem a burdensome stone to all the peoples."  To which Jerusalem does this prophecy point? Zechariah's  prophecy concerning Jerusalem applies to "heavenly Jerusalem," the heavenly Kingdom to which anointed Christians have been called.  (Hebrews 12:22) A small remnant of these heirs of the Messianic Kingdom are still on earth.  Along with their companions, the "other sheep,"  they urge people to turn to God's kingdom while there is yet time.  (John 10:16; Revelation 11:15)  How have the nations reacted to this invitation? And what kind of support does Jehovah give to true worshipers today?  Let us find out as we further examine the meaning of Zechariah chapter 12.  Doing so, we can gain the assurance that 'no weapon will succeed' against God's anointed ones and their dedicated associates. 

Zechariah 12:3 indicates that the nations receive "severe scratches."  How does this happen?  God has decreed that the good news of the Kingdom must be preached. Jehovah's Witnesses take seriously  the obligation to preach. However, the heralding of the Kingdom as mankind's only has become "a burdensome stone" to the nations.  They try to lift it out of the way by interfering  with the Kingdom preachers. In so doing, the meddling nations  have receive "severe scratches for themselves," getting all cut up.  Even their reputations have been hurt as they meet humiliating failure.  They cannot silence true worshipers, who cherish the privilege of proclaiming the "everlasting good news" of God's Messianic Kingdom before the end of  this system of things.  (Revelation 14:6)  When seeing the violence done to Jehovah's servants, a prison guard in one African land said, in effect:  "You are wasting your efforts in persecuting these people.  They will never compromise, they just increase.' 

Read Zechariah 12:4. Jehovah makes  the promise that he will figuratively blind and throw "bewilderment" those who fight against his courageous Kingdom messengers. He has kept his word.  For example, in one land where true worship was under ban, opposers were unable to keep spiritual food out of the hands of God's people.  A newspaper even claimed that Jehovah's Witnesses were using balloons to get Bible literature  into the country!  God's promise to his loyal servants proved true:  "I shall open my eyes, and every horse of the peoples I shall strike with loss of sight."  Blind with fury, enemies of the Kingdom do not know which direction to take. Yet, we are convinced that Jehovah will preserve his people as a group and look out for their welfare. -2 Kings 6:15-19.

Read Zechariah 12:5, 6.  "The sheiks of Judah"refer to those having oversight among God's people. Jehovah fills  these with fiery zeal in behalf of the earthly interests  of his Kingdom. On one occasion, Jesus told his disciples:  "I came to start a fire on the earth." (Luke 12:49) Truly, he did ignite a fire. By his zealous preaching activity, Jesus made God's Kingdom the paramount issue before the people.  This sparked heated controversy throughout that Jewish nation.  (Matthew  4:17, 25; 10:5-7, 17-20) Similarly,  "Like a firepot among trees and like a fiery torch in a row of newly cut grain," footstep followers of Christ in our day set things aflame in a spiritual way.  The 1917 book The Finished Mystery roundly exposed the hypocrisy of Christendom.  That brought forth a bitter reaction from the clergy.  In more recent times, Kingdom News No. 37, "The End of False Religion Is Near! has moved many people to take their stand either for or against God's Kingdom. 

Next time: "The Tents of Judah" Saved

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

10.23.2014

False Tongues Condemned


Isaiah prophesied that God's people would condemn any tongue that rose against them. In 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 are 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 Christian prove themselves to be law-abiding citizens and moral people who show genuine concern for the welfare of  of their fellow humans, the accusations hurled against them are show 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) 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"

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

Satan's Unsuccessful Efforts


Weapons used against true worshipers have included bans, mob violence, prisons, and the 'framing of trouble by law.' (Psalm 94:20) Actually, in some lands, even as  Witnesses of Jehovah are studying this article, these true Christians are being "put to the test" regarding their integrity to God. -Revelation 2:10.

For example, one branch office of Jehovah's Witnesses reported that  during just one year, there were 32 cases in which God's  servants were physically attacked while they engaged in the ministry.  In addition, there were 59 incidents of police detention of Witnesses-young and old, male and female-who were preaching publicly.  Some were fingerprinted, photographed, and place behind bars as criminals.  Others have been threatened with physical harm. In another land, there are now over 1,100 documented cases of Jehovah's Witnesses being arrested, fined, or beaten.  More than 200 of these cases occurred  on the day when they gathered to commemorate Jesus' death!  Nonetheless, Jehovah's spirit has enabled  his people to survive despite overwhelming odds, both in these lands and in other countries.  (Zechariah 4:6) The heat of the enemy wrath will not still the lips of those praising Jehovah.  Yes, we are confident that no weapon can defeat God's purpose. 

Next time: False Tongues Condemned 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007


NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU WILL SUCCEED


DECADES ago, in  a small mountainous country in southeastern Europe, there was a fearless band of Christians. An atheistic Communist government did its best to crush them. Yet torture, labor camps, and media attacks could not stamp them out.  Who were they?  Jehovah's Witnesses in Albania.  Though meeting together and preaching were extremely difficult, their persistence over decades has exalted  and honored Christianity and brought praise to Jehovah's name. Last year at the dedication of their new branch facilities, a longtime faithful Witness said:  "No matter how hard Satan tries, he keeps losing and Jehovah keeps winning!"

All of this is living proof of the truthfulness of God's promise toward his people as recorded at Isaiah 54:17:  "Any weapon whatever that will be formed against you will have no success, and any tongue at all that will rise up against you in the judgment you will condemn."  History confirms that nothing  that Satan's world can do will ever put a stop to the worship of Jehovah God by his dedicated servants. 

Next time: Satan's Unsuccessful Efforts

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

10.22.2014

Have Confidence in Jehovah


Can you imagine the feeling of confidence that the Israelites must have had as they thought back on that pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of cloud by night? It was evidence that "the angel of the true God" was guiding their journey.  (Exodus 13:21, 22; 14:19) Today, we can have confidence that Jehovah is with his people to guide, protect, and deliver them. We can take to heart the promise: '[ Jehovah] will not leave his loyal ones.  to time indefinite they will certainly be guarded."  (Psalm 7:28)  Never let us forget those mighty angelic forces that are backing God's servants today.  With their support, we can "stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah." -Exodus 14:13. 

What will enable all of us to "stand firm" in the way of the truth? Wearing the spiritual armor described by Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. Notice that the apostle admonishes us to "put on the complete suit of armor from God." Are we wearing all the parts of this spiritual armor?  In the coming calendar year, it would be well for each one to take stock of himself to make sure that every part of that armor is in place and fits well.  Our enemy, Satan the Devil, knows our weaknesses, and he tries to catch us off guard or to attack a vulnerable  spot.  We have "a wrestling" with wicked forces.  Still, in Jehovah's strength, we can come off the winner! -Ephesians 6:11-18; Proverbs 27:11.

Jesus said to his followers:  "By endurance on your part you will acquire your souls." (Luke 21:19)  May we be among those who faithfully endure any hardships that they may encounter and so be privileged by God's undeserved kindness to "stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah." 

Next time: NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU WILL SUCCEED

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

Learn From Israel's Salvation


What effect did this miraculous deliverance have on the survivors?  Why, Moses and the sons of Israel spontaneously burst into song, praising Jehovah!  They sang:  "Let me sing to Jehovah, for he has become  highly exalted. . . .Jehovah will make as king to time indefinite, even forever."  (Exodus 15:1, 18) Yes, their first thought was to exalt God. In that situation, Jehovah's sovereignty had been demonstrated. 

What instruction, comfort, and hope do we gain from these thrilling events?  Surely we can see that Jehovah is ready for any trial that his people have to go through.  He is equal to any situation that may confront them.  The Red Sea was not barrier to Israel when Jehovah caused that strong east wind to blow.  And he was able to cause that same  Red Sea to become a watery grave  for Pharaoh's armies. Contemplating this, we can echo the words of the psalmist  who said:  "Jehovah is on my side; I shall not fear.  What can earthling man do to me?" (Psalm 118:6) We can also find comfort in Paul's words recorded at Romans 8:31)  "If God is for us, who will be against us?"  What confidence these inspired saying give us!  They quiet any fears and doubts that we may have and fill us with hope.  How appropriate, then, is our yeartext for 2008:  "Stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah"! -Exodus 14:13. 

What else can we learn from Israel's Exodus from Egypt?  That we must obey Jehovah no matter what he asks us to do.  The Israelites were obedient  in carrying out the detailed preparations for the Passover.  They obediently stayed indoors during the night of Nisan 14.  When they finally left Egypt, they had to go "in battle formation."  (Exodus 13:18)  Today, it is so important that we follow the guidance that comes to us through "the faithful and discreet slave"!  (Matthew 24:45) We have to listen very carefully  to God's word behind us, saying:  " 'This is the way. Walk in it, you people,' in case you people should go the right or in case you should go to the left." (Isaiah 30:21) As we get nearer to the outbreak of the great tribulation, we may well receive some detailed instructions.  Our safe journey through these troublesome days will depend on our keeping in step with other loyal servants of Jehovah.

Remember, too, that Jehovah diverted the Israelites into a position where they appeared to be trapped between the mountains on one side and  the Red Sea on the other.  It just did not seem to be the right move. But Jehovah had everything in hand, and all worked out to his praise and to the salvation  of his people.  Today, we may not clearly  see why some organizational matters are handled in a certain way, but we have every reason to trust in Jehovah's guidance through his faithful channel of communication. At times,m our enemies may seem to be getting the upper hand.  From our limited perspective, we may seem able to see the whole picture. Still, Jehovah is  capable  maneuvering matters at the right moment, just as he did back there for the sons of Israel. -Proverbs 3:5.

Next time: Have Confidence in Jehovah

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

"See the Salvation of Jehovah"


Next, there is an amazing turn of events. Jehovah tells Moses:  "Speak to the sons of Israel, that they should turn back and encamp before Pihahiroth between Migdol and the sea in view of Baal-zephon."  As they follow these instructions, this great multitude find themselves hemmed in between  the mountains and a arm of the Red Sea.  There seems  to be no way out. However, Jehovah knows what he is doing.  He tells Moses:  "I shall let Pharaoh's heart become obstinate, and he will certainly chase after them and I shall get glory for myself by means of Pharaoh and all his military forces; and the Egyptians will certainly  know that I am Jehovah." -Exodus 14:1-4. 

Pharaoh, feeling that he has made a mistake in allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt, sets off in hot pursuit with 600 chose war chariots. As the Egyptian  army comes into sight, the Israelites  become terrified and cry out to Moses: "Is it because  there are no burial places at all in Egypt that you have taken us here to die in the wilderness?"  Confident in Jehovah's salvation, Moses replies:  "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and see the salvation of Jehovah, which he will perform for you today. . . .Jehovah will himself fight for you, and you yourselves will be silent.," -Exodus 14:5-14. 

True to Moses' words that Jehovah would fight for the Israelites, superhuman forces now take over. Jehovah's angel miraculously moved to their rear near the pillow of the cloud that has been leading the camp of Israel. While it becomes a source of darkness to the Egyptians, that same pillar gives light to the Israelites.  (Exodus 12:21, 22; 14:19, 20)  In obedience  to God's command, Moses now stretches out his hand.  The account continues:  "Jehovah began making the sea go back by a strong east wind all night long .  . .At length the sons of Israel went through the midst  of the sea on dry land, while the waters  were a wall to them on the right hand and on their left."  The Egyptians take up the pursuit, but Jehovah is on the side of his people.  He throws the camp of the Egyptians  into confusion, and then he tells Moses:  "Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the waters  may back over the Egyptians, their war chariots and their cavalrymen."  So complete is the destruction of Pharaoh's armies that not a single soldier is left alive! -Exodus 14:21-28; Psalm 136:15.  

Next time: Learn From Israel's Salvation

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

10.21.2014

Jehovah Rescues His People


The year is 1513 B.C.E. Jehovah has already brought nine blows against the Egyptians. After the last of those, Pharaoh summarily  dismisses Moses with the words: "Get out from me!   Watch yourself!  Do not try to see my face again, because on the day of you seeing my face you will die."  Moses replies:  That is the way you have spoken. I shall not try to see your face anymore." -Exodus 10:28, 29. 

Jehovah now reveals to Moses that there will be one more blow against Pharaoh and all the Egyptians, a final one.  On the 14th of Abib (Nisan), the firstborn of every Egyptian man and of every animal is going to die.  But Israelite households can be spared by carefully following God's  instructions given to Moses.  They are to splash some of the blood of the male lamb upon the  doorposts and the upper part of the doorway of their houses and to stay indoors.  What happens that night?  Let Moses himself tell us:  "It came about that at midnight Jehovah struck every firstborn in the land of Egypt."  Pharaoh's reaction is immediate.  Calling Moses and Aaron to him, he tells them:  "Get up, get out from the midst of my people, . . . and go, serve Jehovah, just as you have stated." And go to the Israelites do, possible more than three million of them along with an unnumbered  "vast mixed company" of non-Israelites. -Exodus 12:1-7, 29, 31, 27, 38.

The nearest route for the Israelites to take is by the Mediterranean Sea and through the  land of the Philistines. But that is enemy territory. Hence, likely to save his people from having to engage in warfare, Jehovah leads them by way of the wilderness of the Red Sea. Although, there are millions of People on the march, this is no disorderly crowd.  The Bible record says:  "It was in battle formation that the sons of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt." -Exodus 1:17, 18. 

Next time: "See the Salvation of Jehovah" 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

Conclusion of:"STAND FIRM AND SEE THE SALVATION OF JEHOVAH"


All the nations of the earth will have aligned themselves against Jehovah's people.  Will the nations succeed in wiping out those faithful Christians? It may seem as if they could.  But look! Heavenly armies following Christ Jesus will see to it that these human forces are destroyed.  (Revelation 19:19-21)  Finally, the Devil and his angels will be cast into an abyss of inactivity.  They will no longer be able to mislead man because they will be bound for a thousand years. Oh, what a relief that will be to the great multitude of survivors! -Revelation 7:9, 10, 14; 20:1-3.

We are about to experience these wonderful and awe-inspiring events.  They all have  to do with vindicating Jehovah's right to rule, his universal sovereignty. And think of this:  If we remain loyal to Jehovah and if we stand firm for his sovereignty, we shall have the opportunity of sharing in the sanctification of his purpose.  What an estimable joy that will be!

Are we prepared for those momentous events?  Do we have faith in Jehovah's saving power?  Are we confident that he will come to our aid at the right time and in the best way?  In answering such personal questions, we can keep in mind what the apostle Paul told his fellow Christian in Rome:  "All the things that were written aforetime were written  for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4)  Among the things written for our instruction, giving us comfort and hope, is the record of  the occasion when Jehovah delivered  the Israelites from the iron grip  of their Egyptian  oppressors. A close examination of those exciting events when Jehovah maneuvered the salvation of the sons of Israel should be of great encouragement to us as we look forward to the fast-approaching great tribulation. 

Next time: Jehovah Rescues His People

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

"STAND FIRM AND SEE THE SALVATION OF JEHOVAH"


TODAY, mankind faces events of a magnitude never previously experienced.  Foretelling this about our day, Jesus warned his followers:  "There will be great tribulation such as not occurred since the world's beginning until now, no, nor will occur again. In fact, unless those days were cut short, no flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones those days will be cut short." -Matthew 24:21, 22.

Unseen to human eyes, heavenly forces are now holding back that great tribulation.  The apostle John was privileged to see the reason for this restraint in a revelation given to him by Jesus.  Here is how the aged apostle described it:  "I saw four angels standing upon the four corners of the earth, holding tight the four winds of the earth . . . And I saw another angel ascending from the sun rising, having a seal  of the living God; and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels . . .'Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until after we have sealed the slaves of our God into their foreheads.' " -Revelation 7:1-3.

The final sealing of the anointed "slaves of our God" is approaching completion.  The four angels are ready to release those destructive winds.  When they do, what will happen first?  An angel answers that question:  "With a swift pitch will Babylon the great city be hurled down, and she will never be found again."  (Revelation 18:21) What heavenly  rejoicing there will be when this happens when the world empire of false religion is destroyed! -Revelation 19:1, 2. 

Next time: Conclusion of: "STAND FIRM AND SEE THE SALVATION OF JEHOVAH"

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007

10.20.2014

Look Beyond Jehovah's Great Day


You will be able to await Jehovah's day with a calm heart if you keep everlasting life in view.  (Jude 20, 21)  You look forward to eternal life in Paradise, and thus you have the hope of renewed youthful vitality and unlimited time to pursue wholesome goals and learn more about Jehovah. You can actually go on learning about God forever because humans now know only  "the fringes of his ways." (Job 26:14) What exciting prospects! 

In Paradise, resurrected ones will be able to fill in some gaps in our knowledge of the past. Enoch will be there to explain how he had the courage needed to declare Jehovah's message to ungodly people.  (Jude 14, 15) Noah will certainly relate what it was lie to build the ark. Abraham and Sarah will be able to reveal how they felt about leaving the comforts of Ur and living in tents.  Think of Esther supplying details about how she stood up  for her people and foiled Haman's plot against them.  (Esther 7:1-6) Imagine Jonah telling about his three days in the belly of the big fish or John the Baptize  describing his feelings when he baptized Jesus.  (Luke 3:21, 22; 7:28) What intriguing things to learn!


During Christ's Thousand Year Reign, you may be privileged to help resurrected ones to gain "the very knowledge of God."  (Proverbs 2:1-6) Today, what a pleasure it is to see people take in knowledge of Jehovah God and act upon it!  But  think of your joy at that future time when Jehovah blesses your efforts to instruct people from bygone eras and they respond with appreciative hearts!

The benefits we now enjoy as Jehovah's people are beyond our imperfect efforts to number or evaluate.  (Psalm 40:5) Especially are we grateful for God's spiritual provisions.  (Isaiah 48:17, 18) Regardless of our circumstances, let us wholeheartedly render sacred service as we await the great day of Jehovah.  

Next time: "STAND FIRM AND SEE THE SALVATION OF JEHOVAH"

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007