CHAPTER TWO: THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

IT IS only reasonable that our loving Creator would provide a book of instruction and guidance for mankind. And do you not agree that humans need guidance?

More than 2,500 years ago, a prophet and historian wrote:  "It does not belong to man who is walking to direct his step."  (Jeremiah 10:23) Today, the truthfulness of that statement is more evident than ever.  Thus, historian William H. McNeill notes:  "The human adventure on the face of this planet has been and almost uninterrupted series of crisis and disruptions of society's established order."

The Bible fills all our needs for wise direction. True, many are overwhelmed  when they first look through the Bible. It is a big book, and some portions of it are not easy to understand. But if you were given a legal document outlining what you had to do in order to receive a valuable inheritance, would you not take the time to study it carefully?  If you found certain parts of the document hard to understand, likely you would get the help of someone experienced in such matters. Why not approach the Bible with a similar attitude?  (Acts 17:11)  More is at stake than a  material inheritance. As we learned in the previous chapter, the knowledge of God can lead to everlasting life.

Let us examine the book that reveals the knowledge of God. We will first give a brief overview of the Bible. Then we will discuss reasons why many informed people believe that it is the inspired Word of God. 

Next time: THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD/WHAT THE BIBLE CONTAINS 

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!

KNOWLEDGE AND YOUR FUTURE

If life in Paradise appeals to you, let nothing hold you back from gaining the knowledge of God. He loves mankind and will bring about the changes needed to make the earth into a paradise.  After all, if you had the power to end the misery and injustice so prevalent in the world, would you not do so? Would w expect God to do less? Actually, the Bible speaks in vivid terms of a time when God will remove the strife-ridden system and replace it with a perfect righteous rule.  (Daniel 2:44) But the Bible does much more than tell us about all of this. It shows us how we can survive into God's promised new world. -2 Peter 3;13; 1 John 2:17. 

The knowledge of God can also do much for you right now. Life's deepest and most disturbing questions are answered in the Bible. Accepting its guidance will help you develop a friendship with God. What a grand privilege!  And this will enable you to enjoy the peace that God alone can give.  (Romans 15:13-33)  As you begin to take in this vital knowledge, you are embarking on the most important and rewarding endeavor of your life. You will never regret acquiring the knowledge of God that leads to everlasting life. 

Note: I have never regretted acquiring the knowledge of God, it comforts me when I feel bothered about something and helps me in other ways as well. I cherish having this knowledge and God in my life. I would not want or have it any other way. 

We have referred to the Bible as the book containing the knowledge of God. Yet, how do we know that it is, not a book  of human wisdom, but something far greater? We will consider this question in the next chapter. 

Next time: CHAPTER TWO: THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!

LIFE IN THE RESTORED PARADISE

Sickness, old age, and death will no longer exist.  "At that time the eyes of the blind ones will be opened, and the very ears of the deaf ones will be unstopped. At that time the lame one will climb up just as the stag does, and tongue of the speechless one will cry out in gladness."  (Isaiah 35:5, 6) "God himself will be with [mankind]. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. the former things have passed away." -Revelation 1:3, 4.

Crime, violence, and wickedness will be gone forever.  "Evildoers themselves will be cut off . .  . Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more .  . .He will not be. But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth."  (Psalm 37:9-11) "As regards the wicked, they will be cut torn away from it." -Proverbs 2:22. 

Peace will prevail earth wide.  He [God] is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth. The bow he breaks apart and does cut the spear in pieces. "  (Psalm 46:9)  "The righteous one will sprout, and the abundance of peace until the moon is no more." -Psalm 72:7. 

Housing will be secure and work satisfying.  "They will certainly build houses and have occupancy .  .  . They will not build and someone else have occupancy; they will not plant and someone else do the eating. For like the days of a tree will the days of my people be; and the work of their own hands my chosen ones will use to the full.  They will not toil for nothing, nor will they bring to birth for disturbance." -Isaiah 65:21-23. 

Healthful good will be available in abundance.  "There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on top on the mountains there will be an overflow." (Psalm 72:16)  "The earth itself will certainly give its produce; God, our God, will bless us." -Psalm 67:6. 

Everlasting life on a paradise earth will be delightful.   "The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside upon it forever." (Psalm 37:29) "The wilderness and the waterless region will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron." -Isaiah 35:1. 

Next time: YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!/KNOWLEDGE AND YOUR FUTURE

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!

EVERLASTING LIFE!

The well-known historical figure Jesus Christ described this feature of the knowledge of God in clear terms. He said: ""This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John 17:3)  Imagine -knowledge that leads to everlasting life!

Do not quickly dismiss everlasting life as a mere dream.  Instead, look at the way the human body is made.  It is splendidly designed  to taste, hear, smell, see, and feel.  There is so much on earth that delights our senses-delicious food, pleasant birdsong, fragrant flowers, beautiful  scenery, delightful companionship! And our amazing brain is far more supercomputer, for it enables us to appreciate and enjoy all such things.  Do you think that our Creator wants us to die and lose all of this?  Would it not be more reasonable to conclude  that he wants us to live happily and enjoy life forever?  Well, that is what the knowledge of God can mean for you. 

LIFE IN PARADISE

What the Bible says about the future of the earth and mankind might be summed up in one word-Paradise!  Jesus Christ spoke of if when he told a dying man:  "You will be with me in Paradise."  (Luke 23:43)  The mention of Paradise no doubt brought to that man's mind the happy state of our first parents, Adam and Eve.  When God created them, they were perfect and lived in a garden-like park  that the Creator had designed and planted. It was fittingly called the garden of Eden, which name denotes pleasure.

How delightful that  garden was!  It was a real paradise.  Among its beautiful trees were those bearing delicious fruit. As Adam and Eve explored their domain, drank from it sweet waters, and gathered fruit from its trees, they had no reason to be anxious or fearful.  Even animals posed no threat, for God had placed the man and his wife in loving dominion over all of them.  In addition, the first human p;air had vibrant health. As long as they  remained obedient to God, and eternal, happy future lay before them.  They were given the satisfying work of caring for their wonderful Paradise home. Further, God gave Adam and Eve the mandate to "fill the earth and subdue it."  They and their offspring were to extend the borders of Paradise until our entire planet became a place of beauty and delight. - Genesis 1:28. 

When Jesus mentioned  Paradise, however, he was not asking  a dying man to think about the distant past. No, Jesus was speaking about the future!  He knew that our entire earthly home would be a paradise.  God would thus fulfill his original purpose for mankind and our earth.  (Isaiah 55:10, 11) Yes, Paradise will be restored!  And what will it be like?  Let God's Word, the Holy Bible, answer. 

Next time: YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!/LIFE IN THE RESTORED PARADISE

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE! -CHAPTER ONE

A WARM embrace from someone you love. Hearty laughter during a good meal with friends.  The pleasure of watching your children cheerfully at play. Moments like these are bright spots in life.  For many, however, life seems to present one serious  problem after another. If that has been your experience, take heart.

It is God's  will that you enjoy lasting happiness under the best conditions in wonderful surroundings.  This is no mere dream, for God actually offers you the key to such a happy future. That key is knowledge.

We are talking about a special kind of knowledge that is far greater than human wisdom. It is "the very knowledge of God."  (Proverbs 2:5)  Nearly 2,000 years ago, a Bible writer said:  "Every house is constructed by someone, but he that constructed all things is God." (Hebrews 3:4)  Think of the knowledge that the Maker of all things must possess!  The Bible says that God counts and names all the stars. What a staggering thought, since there are hundreds of billions of stars in our own galaxy, and astronomers say that  there are  about a hundred billion other galaxies! (Psalm 147:4) God also knows all about us, so who else could provide better answers to life's important questions? -Matthew 10:30.

Picture two men trying to repair their cars. Frustrated, one man throws down his tools. The other calmly corrects the problem, turns the ignition key, and smiles as the engine starts up and runs smoothly.  You would not have a hard time guessing which of the two men had an instruction manual from the manufacturer.  Does it not make sense that God would provide instructions  to guide us in life? As you may know, the Bible claims to be just that-a book of instruction  and guidance from our Creator, designated  to impart the knowledge of God. - 2 Timothy 3;16.  

If the Bible's claim is true, think of what treasures of knowledge that book must contain!  At Proverbs  2:1-5, it urges us to seek wisdom, to dig for it as we would for a hidden treasure-not in the soil of human thinking, but in God's own Word. If we search there, we will "find the very knowledge of God."  Since God understands our limitations and needs, he gives us instruction that will help us to lead peaceful, happy lives.   (Psalm 103:14; Isaiah 48:17) Furthermore, the knowledge of God offers us exciting good news.

Next time: YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE!/EVERLASTING LIFE!

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

Remain in God's Love

REACH OUT FOR "THE REAL LIFE"

Jehovah rewards his faithful servants with life, but life of what kind?  Well, are you really living now? Most of us would say that the answer is obvious. After all, we breathe, we eat, and we drink. Surely we must be living. And  in our happier moments, we may even say, "Now this is really living!"  However, the Bible indicates that in an important sense, no human today is really living.

God's Word urges us to "get a firm hold on the real life." (1 Timothy 6:19)  Those words indicate that "the real life" is something we hope to attain in the future. Yes, when we are perfect, we will be living as God originally intended us to live. When we are living on a paradise earth in complete health, peace, and happiness, we will at last enjoy "the real life"-everlasting life.  (1 Timothy 6:12) Is that not a wonderful  hope? 

How can we "get a firm hold on the real life?"  In the same context, Paul urged Christians "to work at good" and  "to be rich in fine works."  (1 Timothy 6:18) Clearly, then, much depends on  how we apply the truths we have learned from the Bible.  But did Paul mean that we earn "the real life" by performing good works? No, for such marvelous prospects really depend on our receiving "undeserved kindness" from God.  (Romans 5:15) However, Jehovah delights in rewarding those who serve him faithfully.  He wants to see you live "the real life."  Such a happy, peaceful, everlasting life lies ahead for those who remain in God's love. 

Each of us does well to ask himself, 'Am I worshiping God in the way, he has set out in the Bible?  If we make sure, day by day, that the answer is yes, then we are on the right path. We can be confident that Jehovah is our refuge. He will keep his faithful people safe through the last troubled days of this old system of things.  Jehovah will also deliver us into the glorious new system of things now near. How thrilled we will be to see that time!  And how delighted we will be that we made the right choices during these last days!  If you make such choices now, you will enjoy "the real life," just as Jehovah God meant it to be, throughout all eternity! 

Next time: YOU CAN HAVE A HAPPY FUTURE-CHAPTER 1

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life

Remain in God's Love

FIND JOY IN YOUR WORSHIP

Personal Bible study and prayer are acts of worship that we may  carry out in private. Now, however, let us consider an  aspect of worship that we carry out publicly:  speaking to others about our beliefs. Have you already shared some Bible truths with others?  If so, you have enjoyed a wonderful privilege.  (Luke 1:74)  When we share the truths we have learned about Jehovah God, we are taking up an important assignment given to all true Christians -that of preaching the good news of God's Kingdom. -Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20. 

The apostle Paul viewed his ministry as something precious, calling it a treasure.  ( 2 Corinthians   4:7) Talking to people about Jehovah God and his purposes is the best work you can do. It is service to the best Master, and it brings the best benefits possible.  By engaging in this activity, you are helping honesthearted people to draw close to  our heavenly Father and to get on the road to everlasting life!  What work could be more satisfying?  Furthermore, witnessing about Jehovah and his Word increases your faith and strengthens your love for him. And Jehovah appreciates your efforts.  (Hebrews 6:10)  Staying busy in such work helps you to remain in God's love. -1 Corinthians 15:58.

It is important to remembers that the Kingdom preaching work is urgent.  The Bible says:  "Preach the word, be at it urgently."  (2 Timothy 4:2)  Why is doing this so urgent today?  God's Word tells us:  "The great day of Jehovah is near. It is near and there is a hurrying of it very much."  (Zephaniah 1:14) Yes, the time is coming quickly when Jehovah will bring this whole system of things to its end. People need to be warned!  They need to know that now is the time to choose Jehovah as their Sovereign.  The end "will not be late." -Habakkuk 2:3. 

Jehovah wants us to worship him publicly in association with true Christians.  That is why his Word says:  "Let us  consider one another to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking the gathering of our selves together, as some have  the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as you behold the day drawing near."  (Hebrews 10:24, 25)  When we gather with fellow believers at Christian meetings, we have a wonderful opportunity to praise and worship God. We also build one another up  and encourage one another.

As we associate with other worshipers of Jehovah, we strengthen the bonds of love and friendship in the congregation. It is important that we look for the good in one another, as Jehovah looks for the good in us. Remember  that all are at different stages of spiritual growth and that every one of us makes mistakes.  (Colossians 3:13) Seek to build the close friendships with those who love Jehovah intensely, and you will find  yourself growing spiritually. Yes, worshiping Jehovah with your spiritual brothers and sisters will help you remain in God's love. How does Jehovah reward those who worship him faithfully and thus remain in his love? 

Next time: Remain in God's Love/REACH OUT FOR "THE REAL LIFE"

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Remain in God's Love

DRAW EVER CLOSER TO JEHOVAH

Learning about Jehovah is a vital step in drawing closer to him. It is a process that should never stop. If you were outside on a very cold night warming yourself by a fire, would you let the flames dwindle and then die out? No. You would keep adding fuel  to keep the  fire burning bright and hot. Your very life might be at stake! As wood fuels a fire, so "the very knowledge of God" keeps  our love for Jehovah strong. -Proverbs 2:1-5. 

Jesus wanted his followers to keep their love for Jehovah and for His precious Word of truth alive and burning brightly. After his resurrection, Jesus taught two of his disciples about some of the prophecies in the Hebrew Scriptures that were fulfilled in him. What was the effect?  They later said:  "Were not our hearts  burning as he was speaking to us on the road, as he was fully opening up the Scriptures to us?" -Luke 24:32. 

When you first learned what the Bible really teaches, did you find  that your heart began to burn up with joy, zeal, and love for God?  No doubt you did. Many have felt the same way. The challenge now is to keep that intense love and alive and to help it grow.  We do no want to follow the trend of today's world. Jesus foretold: "The love of the greater number will cool off."  (Matthew 24:12) How can you prevent your love for Jehovah and for Bible truths from cooling off?

Keep on taking in  knowledge of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ.  (John 17:3) Meditate, or think deeply, on what you learn from God's Word, asking yourself: 'What does this teach me about Jehovah God? What further reason  does it gove me to love him with my whole  heart, mind, and soul? (1 Timothy 4:15) Such meditation will keep your love for Jehovah burning brightly.

Another way to keep your love for Jehovah burning brightly is to pray regularly.  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)  In chapter 17 of this book, we learned that prayer is a precious gift from God. Just as human relationships thrive on regular, open communication, so our relationship with Jehovah stays warm and alive, when we pray to him regularly. It is vital that we never let our prayers become mechanical-mere routine words that we repeat over and over without real feeling or meaning. We need to speak to Jehovah as a child would talk to a beloved father. We want to speak  with respect, of course, but openly, honestly, and from the heart.  (Psalm 62:8)  Yes, personal Bible study and heartfelt prayer  are vital aspects of our worship, and they help us to remain in God's love.  

Next time: Remain in God's Love/FIND JOY IN YOUR WORSHIP

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Remain in God's Love

Conclusion of RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND TO GOD'S LOVE

As described in the Bible, love for God is much  more than a feeling. In fact, although the feeling of love for Jehovah is essential, that feeling is just the beginning of real love for him. An apple seed is essential to the development of a fruit-bearing apple tree. If you wanted an apple, however, would you be content if someone merely handed you an apple seed? Hardly!  Similarly, a feeling of love for Jehovah God is only a start.  The Bible teaches:  "This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome." (1 John 5:3)  To be genuine, love for God must bear fine fruit. It must be expressed in actions. -Matthew 7:16-20. 

We show our love for God when we observe his commandments and apply his principles. It is not too hard to do so.  Far from being burdensome, Jehovah's laws are designed to help us live a good, happy, satisfying life.  (Isaiah 48:17, 18) By living in harmony with Jehovah's guidance, we show our heavenly Father that we truly appreciate all that he has done for us. Sadly, too few in today's world show such appreciation. We do not want to be unappreciative, like some people who lived when Jesus was on earth. Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one turned back to thank him.  (Luke 17:12-17) Surely we would want to be like the grateful one, not the ungrateful nine!

What, then, are Jehovah's commandments that we need to observe?  We have discussed a number of them in this book, but let us review a few. Observing God's commandments will help us to remain in God's love. 

Next time: Remain in God's Love/DRAW EVER CLOSER TO JEHOVAH

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Remain in God's Love

RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND TO GOD'S LOVE

To remain in God's love, we need to appreciate hos Jehovah has shown his love for us. Think of some of the Bible teachings you have learned  with the aid of this book. As the Creator, Jehovah has given us the earth as our delightful home.  He has filled it with abundant food and water, natural resources, fascinating animal life, and beautiful scenery. As the Author of the Bible, God has revealed his name and his qualities to us. Moreover, his Word reveals that he sent his own beloved Son to the earth, allowing Jesus to suffer and die for us.  (John 3;16) And what does that gift mean for us?  It gives us hope for a wonderful future.

Our hope for the future also depends on something else that God has done. Jehovah has established a heavenly government, the Messianic Kingdom. It will soon bring an end to all suffering and will make the earth a paradise. Just think!  We can live there in peace and happiness forever. (Psalm 37:29) Meanwhile, God has given us guidance on how to live in the best way possible right now.  He has  also given us the gift of prayer, an open line  of communication with him.  These are just a few of the ways that Jehovah has shown love for mankind in general and for you as an individual.

The vital questions for you to consider is this:  How will I respond to Jehovah's love?  Many will say, "Well, I need to love Jehovah in return."  Is that how you feel?  Jesus said that this command is the greatest of all:  "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind."  (Matthew 22:37)  You certainly  have many reasons to love Jehovah God. But is feeling that you have such love all that is involved in loving Jehovah with your whole heart, soul, and mind?

Next time: Remain in God's Love/Conclusion of RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND TO GOD'S LOVE

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

CHAPTER NINETEEN: Remain in God's Love

What does it mean to love God?

How can we remain in God's love?

How will Jehovah reward those who remain in his love?


PICTURE yourself walking along a road on a stormy day. The sky becomes darker. Lightning starts to flash, thunder booms, then rain falls in torrents. You hurry along desperately looking for refuge. There, by the roadside, yous ee a shelter. It is sturdy, dry, and inviting. How you value that safe place! 

We are living in stormy times. World conditions are going from bad to worse. But there is a secure shelter, a refuge that can keep us safe from permanent harm. What is it? Note what the Bible teaches: "I will say to Jehovah:  'You are my refuge and my stronghold, my God, in whom I will trust." -Psalm 91:2. 

Imagine that! Jehovah, the Creator and Sovereign of the universe, can be our protective refuse. He can keep us safe, for he is far more powerful than anyone or anything that may come against us.  Even if we are harmed, Jehovah can undo all the bad effects.  How can be make Jehovah our refuge?  We need to trust in him. Furthermore, God's Word urges us: "Keep yourselves in God's love." (Jude 21) Yes, we need to remain in God's love, maintaining a loving bond with our heavenly Father. Then we may rest assured that he is our refuge. But how can we form such a bond.?

Next time: Remain in God's Love/RECOGNIZED AND RESPOND TO GOD'S LOVE

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

THE MEANING OF YOUR BAPTISM

Jesus said that his disciples would be baptized  "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." (Matthew 28:19) This means that a baptism candidate recognizes the authority of Jehovah God and of Jesus Christ.  (Psalm 83:18; Matthew 28:18) He also recognizes the function and activity of God's holy spirit, or active force. -Galatians 5:22,23; 2 Peter 1:21. 

However, baptism is not a mere bath. It is a symbol of something very important. Going beneath the water symbolizes that you have died to your former life course.  Being raised up out of the water indicates that you are now alive to do the will of God. Remember, too, that you have made a dedication to Jehovah God himself, not to a work, a cause, other humans, or an organization.  Your dedication and baptism are the beginning of a very close friendship with god-an intimate relationship with him. -Psalm 5:14.

Baptism does not guarantee salvation. The apostle Paul wrote:  "Keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling."  (Philippians 2:12) Baptism is only a beginning. The question is, How can you remain in God's love?  Our final chapter will provide you the answer.

Next time: CHAPTER NINETEEN: Remain in God's Love

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

SYMBOLIZING YOUR DEDICATION BY GETTING BAPTIZED

Thinking about the things we have just discussed may help you to make a personal dedication to Jehovah in prayer. Everyone who really loves God must also 'make a public declaration for salvation.'  (Romans 10:10) How do you go about doing that?

Let the preceding overseer of your congregation know that you want to get baptized. He will arrange for some elders to review with you a number of questions that cover Bible's basic teachings.   If these elders agree that you qualify, they will tell you  that you can be baptized at the next opportunity.  A talk reviewing the meaning of baptism is usually given on such occasions.  The speaker than invites  all baptism candidates to answer two simple questions as one way to make a verbal "public declaration" of their faith. 

It is important itself that publicly identifies you as a person who has made a dedication to God and is not one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Baptism candidates are fully immersed in water to show publicly that they have made a dedication to Jehovah. 

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/THE MEANING OF YOUR BAPTISM

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

OVERCOMING FEAR AND FAILURE

Some hold back from making a dedication to Jehovah because they are somewhat afraid of taking such a  serious step. They may fear being accountable to God as a dedicated Christian. Being afraid that they may fail and disappoint Jehovah, they think that it is best not make a dedication to him.

As you learn to love Jehovah, you will be moved to make a dedication to him and to do your best to live up to it.  (Ecclesiastes 5:4) After making a dedication, surely  you will want to "walk worthily of Jehovah to the end of fully pleasing him."  (Colossians 1:10)  Because of your love for God, you will not think it is too hard to do his will.  No doubt you will agree with the apostle John, who wrote:  "This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome." - 1 John 5:3. 

You do not have to be perfect to make a dedication to God. Jehovah knows your limitations and never expects you to do more than you are able to do.  (Psalm 103:14)  He wants you to succeed and support and help you.  (Isaiah 41:10) You be sure that if you trust in  Jehovah with all your heart, he "will make your path straight." -Proverbs 3:5, 6. 

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/SYMBOLIZING YOUR DEDICATION BY GETTING BAPTIZED

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

REPENTANCE AND CONVERSION

Some other steps must be taken before you qualify for baptism.  The apostle Peter said:  "Repent . . . and turn around so as to get your sins blotted  out." (Acts 3;19) To repent is feel sincere regret over something you have done.  Repentance is clearly fitting if a person who has lived an immoral life, but it is also necessary every if one has lived a relatively clean life morally. Why? Because all humans are sinners and need God's forgiveness.  (Romans 3:23;5:12)  Before studying the Bible, you did not know what God's will was. So how could you have lived in full harmony with his will?  Therefore, repentance is  necessary.

Repentance must be followed by conversion, or 'turning around.' You must do more than feel regret. You need to reject your former way of life and be firmly determined that you will do what is right from now on. Repentance and conversion are steps that you must take before being baptized.

MAKING A PERSONAL DEDICATION

There is another important step to take before being baptized. You must dedicate yourself to Jehovah God. 

When you dedicate yourself to Jehovah God in earnest prayer, you promise to give him your exclusive devotion forever.  (Deuteronomy 6:15)  Why, though, would someone want to do that? Well, suppose a man has begun to court a woman. The more he learns about her and sees that she has fine qualities, the more he fins himself drawn to her.  In time, it is natural that he would ask her to marry him. True, getting married will mean taking on additional responsibilities.  But love will move him to take that important step.  

When you come to know and love Jehovah, you are moved to serve him without holding anything back or setting any limits in worshiping him. Anyone who wants to follow God's Son, Jesus Christ, has to "disown himself."  (Mark  8:34)  we disown ourselves by making sure that personal desires and goals do not stand in our way of our complete obedience to God. Before you can be baptized, then, doing Jehovah God's will must be your main purpose in life. -1 Peter 4:2. 

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/OVERCOMING FEAR OF FAILURE

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

SHARING  BIBLE TRUTHS WITH OTHERS

As faith grows in your heart, you will find it hard to keep what you have learned to yourself.  (Jeremiah 20:9) You will be strongly motivated to speak to others about God and his purposes. -2 Corinthians 4:13.  

You might begin to share Bible truths with others by tactfully  speaking about it to your relatives, friends, neighbors, and workmates.  In time, you will want to share in the organized work of Jehovah's Witnesses. At that point, feel free to talk things over with the Witness who is teaching you the Bible. If it appears that you qualify for the public ministry, arrangements will be made for you and your teacher to meet with two of the congregation elders. 

This will enable you to get better acquainted with some Christian elders, who shepherd the flock of God.  (Acts 0:28; 1 Peter 5:2, 3) If these elders see that you understand and believe basic Bible teachings, are living in harmony with God's principles, and truly want to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses, they will let you know that you qualify to share in the public ministry as an unbaptized publisher of the good news. 

On the other hand, you may need to make some changes in your life-style and habits in order to qualify for the public ministry.  This may include stopping some practices that have kept secret from others. Hence, before you ask about becoming an unbaptized publisher, you need to be free of serious sins, such as sexual immorality, drunkenness, and drug abuse. -1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Galatians 5:19-21. 

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/REPENTANCE AND CONVERSION

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Baptism and Your Relationship With God

KNOWLEDGE AND FAITH NEEDED

You have already begun to take the first step. How? By taking in knowledge of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, perhaps by means of a systematic study of the Bible.  (John 17:3) But there is more to learn.  Christians want to be "filled with the accurate knowledge of [God's] will."  (Colossians 1:9) Attending the congregation meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses is a big help in this regard. It is important to attend such meetings.  (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Regular meeting attendance will help you increase your knowledge of God. 

Of course, you do not need to know everything in the Bible in order to qualify for baptism. The Ethiopian court official had some knowledge, but he needed help to understand certain parts  of the Scriptures. (Acts 8:30, 31)  Likewise, you still have much to learn.  In fact, you will never stop learning about God.  (Ecclesiastes 3:11)  Before you can be baptized, however, you need to know and accept at least the basic Bible teachings.  (Hebrews 5:12)  Such teachings include the truth about the condition of the dead and the importance of God's name and his Kingdom .

Knowledge alone is not enough, though,  for "without faith it is impossible to please [God] well."  (Hebrews 11:6)  The Bible tells us that when some people int he ancient city of Corinth heard the Christian message, they "began to believe and be baptized."  (Acts 18:8) In a similar way, a study of the Bible should fill you with faith that  it is the inspired Word of God. Bible study should help you to have faith. in God's promises and in the saving power of Jesus' sacrifice. -Joshua 23:14; Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. 

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/SHARING BIBLE TRUTH WITH OTHERS

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: Baptism and Your Relationship With God

How is Christian baptism performed?

What steps do you need to qualify for baptism? 

What is the special reason for getting baptized?

"LOOK! a body of water; what prevents me from getting baptized?"  That questions was asked by an Ethiopian court official in the first century.  A Christian named Philip had proved to him that Jesus was the promised  Messiah. Touched to the heart by what he had learned from the Scriptures, the Ethiopian man took action. He showed that he wanted to be baptized! -Acts 8:26-36. 

If you have carefully studied the earlier chapters of this book with one of Jehovah's Witnesses, you may feel ready to ask, 'What prevents me from getting baptized?' By now you have learned about the Bible's promise of everlasting life  in Paradise.  (Luke 23:43; Revelation 21:3, 4)  You have also learned about the true condition of the dead and the resurrection hope.   (Ecclesiastes 9:5; John 5:28, 29)  You have probably been associating with Jehovah's Witnesses at their congregation meetings and have seen for yourself how they practice the true religion.  (John 13:35) Most important, you have likely begun to develop a personal relationship with Jehovah God.  

How can you show that you want to serve God?  Jesus told his followers: "Go . . . and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them."  (Matthew 28:19) Jesus himself set the example by being baptized in water.  He was not sprinkled with water, and he did not just have some water poured over his head.  (Matthew 3:16)  The word "baptize" comes from  a Greek term meaning "dip." Christian  baptism therefore means being fully dipped, or immersed in water.

 Water baptism is a requirement for all who want to have a relationship with Jehovah God. Baptism publicly indicates your desire to serve God.  It shows that you are delighted to do Jehovah's will.  (Psalm 40:7, 8)  To qualify for baptism, however, you must take definite steps.  

Next time: Baptism and Your Relationship With God/KNOWLEDGE AND FAITH NEEDED

From the book:  WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Draw Close to God in Prayer

HOW GOD ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS

Does Jehovah really answer prayers?  Yes, indeed! We have  firm basis to be confident that the "Hearer of prayer" answers sincere prayers offered by millions of humans.  (Psalm 65:2)  Jehovah's answer to our prayers may come in a variety of ways. 

Jehovah uses his angels  and his earthly servants to answer prayers.  (Hebrews  1:13, 14)  There have been many experiences of individuals who prayed to God for help to understand the Bible and were soon thereafter contacted  by one of Jehovah's servants.  Such experiences give evidence of angelic direction of the Kingdom preaching work.  (Revelation 14:6)  To answer our prayers offered in a time of real  need, Jehovah may motivate a Christian to come to our aid. -Proverbs 12:25; James 2:16. 

Jehovah God also uses his holy spirit and his Word, the Bible, to answer the prayers of his servants. He may answer our prayers for help to cope with trials by giving us guidance and strength by means of his holy spirit.  (2 Corinthians 4:7)  Often the answer to our prayers for direction comes from the Bible, where Jehovah gives us help in making wise decisions. Helpful scriptures may be found during our personal Bible study and as we read Christian publications, such as this book. Scriptural points that we need to consider may be brought to our attention by what is said at a Christian meeting or through the comments of a concerned elder in the congregation. -Galatians 6:1.  

If Jehovah seems to delay in answering  our prayers, this is never because he is not able to answer them.  Rather, we must remember that Jehovah answers prayers according to his will and in his due time.  He knows our needs an dhow to care for them far better than we  do.  Often he allows us to 'keep on asking, seeking, and knocking.'  (Luke 11: 5-10) Such perseverance shows God that our desire is very deep and our faith is genuine. Furthermore, Jehovah may answer our prayers in way that is not obvious to us. For example, he may answer  our prayer regarding a particular trial, not by removing the difficulty, but by giving us the strength to endure it. -Philippians 4:13. 

How thankful we can be that the Creator of this vast universe is close to all who call upon him properly in prayer!  (Psalm 145:18)  May we take full advantage of the precious privilege of prayer.  If we do, we will have the joyous prospect of of drawing ever closer to Jehovah, the Hearer of Prayer. 

Next time: CHAPTER EIGHTEEN; Baptism and Your Relationship With God

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Draw Close to God in Prayer

Conclusion of ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRAYER

How long should our prayers be? The Bible does not place any limit on how long private or public prayers should be. They may range from a brief prayer before a meal to a long private prayer in which we pour our heart out to Jehovah.  (1 Samuel 1:12, 15) However, Jesus condemned self-righteous individuals who made long showy prayers before others.  (Luke 20:46, 47) Such prayers do not impress Jehovah. What is important is that we pray from our heart. Hence, the length of acceptable prayers may vary according to needs and circumstances. 

How often should we pray?  The Bible encourages us to "pray continually," to "persevere in prayer," and to "pray incessantly."  (Matthew 26:41; Romans 12:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)   Of course, these statements do not mean that we must be praying to Jehovah every moment of every day. Rather, the Bible is urging us to pray regularly, continually  thanking Jehovah for his goodness to us and looking to him for guidance, comfort, and strength. Is it not comforting to know that Jehovah puts no limit on how long or how often we can talk to him in prayer?  If we truly appreciate the privilege of prayer, we will find many opportunities to pray to our heavenly Father. 

Why should we say "Amen" at the end of a prayer?  The word "amen' means "surely," or "so be it."  Scriptural samples show that it is appropriate to say  "Amen" at the close of personal and public prayers.  (1 Chronicles 16:36; Psalm 41:13)  By saying "Amen"-either silently or out loud-at the end of someone's public prayer, we indicate that we are in agreement with the thoughts that were expressed.  -1 Corinthians 14:16. 

Next time: Draw Close to God in Prayer/HOW GOD ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Draw Close to God in Prayer

ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRAYER

To whom should we pray?  Jesus taught his followers to pray to "our Father in the heavens."  (Matthew 6:9)  Our prayers, then, must be directed to Jehovah God. However, Jehovah requires that we acknowledge the position of his only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ. As we learned in Chapter 5, Jesus was sent to the earth to serve as a ransom to redeem us from sin and death.  (1 John 3:16; Romans 5:12) He is the appointed High Priest and Judge.  (John 5:22; Hebrews 6:20)  Hence, the Scriptures direct us to offer our prayers through Jesus.  He himself said: "I am the way the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)  For our prayers to be heard, we must pray only to Jehovah through his Son.

Must we assume a special position or posture when praying?  No.  Jehovah does not require any specific position, either of the hands or of the whole body.  The Bible teaches that is is acceptable to pray in a wide variety of positions.  These include sitting, bowing, kneeling, and standing.  (1 Chronicles 17:16; Nehemiah 8:6; Daniel 6:10; Mark 11:25)  What is truly important is, not some special posture that can be seen by others, but the right heart attitude.  In fact, during our daily activities or when we are faced with an emergency, we may offer a silent prayer wherever we are.  Jehovah hears such prayers even though they may go completely unnoticed by those around us. -Nehemiah 2:1-6. 

What may we pray for?  The Bible explains:  "No matter what it is that we ask according to his will, he  [Jehovah ] will hear us." (1 John 5:14)  So we may pray for anything that is in harmony with God's will.  (Note: which means; do no pray for a car or a mink coat or things of that nature)  Is it his will that we pray about personal concerns?  By all means!  Praying to Jehovah can be much like talking to a close friend. We may speak openly, 'pouring out heart out'to God.  (Psalm 62:8)  It is proper for us to ask for holy spirit,m for it will help us to do what is right.  (Luke 11:13)  We can also ask for guidance in making wise decisions and for strength in coping with difficulties.   (James 1:5)  When we sin, we should ask forgiveness on the basis of Christ's sacrifice.  (Ephesians 1:3, 7)  Of course, personal matters should not be the only subjects of our prayers.  We should broaden out our prayers to include other people-family members as well as fellow worshipers. - Acts 12:5; Colossians 4:12. 

Matters relating to Jehovah God should be given first importance in our prayers.  We certainly have reasons to express heartfelt praise and thanks to him for all his goodness.   (1 Chronicles 29:10-13)  Jesus gave the model prayer, recorded at Matthew  6:9-13, in which he taught us to pray that God's name be sanctified, that is treated as sacred, or holy.  That God's Kingdom come and that his will be done on earth as it is in heaven are mentioned next.  Only after covering these important matters relating to Jehovah did Jesus give attention to personal concerns. When we likewise give God the most important place in our prayers, we show that we are interested in more than just our own welfare. 

Next time:  Draw Close to God in Prayer/Conclusion of ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRAYER

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Draw Close to God in Prayer

WHAT REQUIREMENTS MUST WE MEET

Does Jehovah listen to all prayers?  Consider what he told rebellious Israelites in the days of the prophet Isaiah:  "Even though you make many prayers, I am not listening; with  bloodshed of your very hands have become filled." (Isaiah 1:15) So certain actions can cause God not to listen to our prayers.  For our prayers to be favorably heard by God, therefore, we must meet some basic requirements.

A primary requirement is that we exercise faith.  (Mark 11: 24) The apostle Paul wrote:  "Without faith it is impossible to please [God] well, for he that approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him."  (Hebrews 11:6)  Having true faith is more than merely knowing that God exists and that he hears and answers prayers.  Faith is proved by our actions. We must give clear evidence that we have faith by the way we live every day. -James 2:26. 

Jehovah also requires that those who approach him in prayer do son with humility and sincerity. Do we not have reason to be humble when speaking to Jehovah?  When people have the opportunity to speak to a king or a president, they usually do so respectfully, acknowledging  the ruler's high position. How much  more so should we be respectful when approach Jehovah!   (Psalm 148:6)  After all, he is "God Almighty." (Genesis 17:1)  When we pray to God, the manner in which we approach him should show that we humbly recognize our position before him.  Such humility will also move us to pray from our heart in sincerity, avoiding routine, repetitive prayers.  -Matthew  6:7, 8. 

Another requirement for being heard by God is that we act in harmony with  our prayers.  Jehovah expects us to do all that is within our power to work at what we pray for.  For example, if we pray, "give us today for our bread for this day," we must work hard at whatever available job we are able to perform.  (Matthew 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:10) If we pray for help in overcoming a fleshly weakness, we must be careful to avoid circumstances and situations that could lead us into temptation.  (Colossians 3:5)  In addition to these basic requirements, there are questions about prayer that we need to have answered.

Next time: Draw Close to God  in Prayer/ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRAYER

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: Draw Close to God in Prayer

Why should we pray to God? 

What must we do to be heard by God?

How does God answer our prayers?


COMPARED with the vast universe, the earth is very small.  In fact, Jehovah,  "the Maker of heaven and earth," the nations of mankind are like a tiny drop of water from a bucket.  (Psalm 115:15; Isaiah 40:15) Yet, the Bible says:  "Jehovah is near to all those calling upon him, to all those calling upon him in trueness.  The  desire of those fearing him he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear." (Psalm 145:18, 19)  Just think of what that means!  The almighty Creator is near to us and will hear us if we "call upon him in trueness."  What a privilege we have to approach God in prayer! 

If we want Jehovah to listen to our prayers, however, we must pray to him in the way that he approves.  How can we do this unless we understand what the Bible teaches about prayer?  It is vital for us to know what the Scriptures say on this subject, for prayer helps us to draw closer to Jehovah.  

WHY PRAY TO JEHOVAH?

One important reason why we should pray to Jehovah is that he invites us to do so. His Word encourages us:  "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be know to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus."  (Philippians 4:6, 7)  Surely we would not want to ignore such a kind provision made for us by the Supreme Ruler of the universe!

Another reason to pray is that regularly praying to Jehovah is a way to strengthen  our relationship with him. True friends do not communicate only when they need something.  Rather, good friends are interested in each other, and their friendship becomes stronger as they freely express their thoughts, concerns, and feelings.  In some respects,  the situation is similar when it comes to our relationship with Jehovah God. With the help of this book, you have learned much about what the Bible teaches regarding Jehovah, his personality, and his purposes.  You have come to know him as a real person. Prayer gives you the opportunity to express your thoughts and innermost feelings to your heavenly Father.  As you do, you draw closer to Jehovah. -James  4:8.

Next time: Draw Close to God in Prayer/WHAT REQUIREMENTS MUST WE MEET?

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Take Your Stand for True Worship

WHAT ABOUT FAMILY MEMBERS?

What if family members do not share your beliefs?  Again, be tactful.  There is no need to make an issue of every custom or celebration that your relatives choose to observe. Instead, respect their right to their views, just as you want them to respect your right to yours.  (Matthew 7:12) Avoid any actions that would make you a participant  in the holiday.  Still,be reasonable when it comes to matters that do not amount to actual celebration.   Of course, you should always act in a way that will leave you with a good conscience. -1 Timothy 1:18, 19. 

What can you do so that your children do not feel deprived because of not celebrating unscriptural  holidays? Much depends on what you do at other times of the year.  Some parents set aside times to give presents to their children. One of the best gifts you can give your children is your time and loving attention.  

PRACTICE TRUE WORSHIP 

To please God, you must reject false worship and take a stand for true worship. What does this include? The Bible states:  "Let us consider on another to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as you behold the day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Christian meetings are happy occasions for you to worship  God in the way that he approves.  (Psalm 22:22; 122:1) At such meetings, there is "an interchange of encouragement" among faithful Christians. -Romans 1:12. 


Note:  False worship is going to churches that do not and have never taught what the Bible teaches, as what this book What Does the Bible Really Teach? is telling you.  Don't let those false teachers in other churches read the Bible for you, they only teach tradition, which is what you have been living up to now: holidays, birthdays, Mother's day, Father's day, Halloween etc., to honor your mother and father is to make sure they have shelter/a roof over their heads, food, clothing, bills paid, medical, medicine and lots of love and attention, not a  day for them; as every day should be for them.  Just as you don't need a holiday to be thankful to God for all that you have, or to give presents to your loved ones when you can do that any other time.  Think about it.  Honor should be given to God, not to imperfect sinful humans.

Another way that you can a stand for true worship is to speak to others about the things you have learned from studying the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses.  Many people truly are "sighing and groaning" over the wickedness that is taking place in the world today.  (Ezekiel 9:4) Perhaps you know some people who feel that way. Why not speak to them about your Bible-based hope for the future?  As you associate with true Christians and speak to others about the marvelous Bible truths you have learned, you will find that any desire for the customs of false worship that may have remained in your heart will gradually disappear.  Be assured that you will be very happy and will receive many blessings if you take your stand for true worship. -Malachi 3:10. 

Next time: CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: Draw Close to God in Prayer

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?  

Take Your Stand for True Worship

DISCERNMENT IN DEALING WITH OTHERS

Challenges may arise when you choose not to participate in holidays. For example, fellow employees may wonder why you do not engage in certain holiday activities where you work.  What if you are offered a Christmas gift?  Would it be wrong to accept it? What if you marriage mate does not share your beliefs?  How can you make sure that your children do not feel deprived because of not celebrating holidays? 

Good judgment is needed to discern how to handle each situation. If a holiday greeting is casually extended, you could simply thank the well-wisher.  But suppose you are dealing with someone you see or work with regularly.  In that case, you might choose to say more.  In all cases, be tactful.  The Bible advises:  "Let your utterance be always with graciousness, seasoned with salt, so as to know how you ought to give an answer to each one." (Colossians 4:6) Be careful not show disrespect for others.  Instead, tactfully explain your position. Make clear that you are not against gift-giving and gatherings but prefer to participate in these activities at a different time. 

What if someone wants to give you a gift?  Much depends upon the circumstances. The giver might say:  "I know that you do not celebrate the holiday. Still, I want you to have this."  You may decide  that accepting  the gift under those circumstances is not the same as taking part in the holiday. Of course, the giver is not familiar with your beliefs, you could mention that you do not observe the holiday.  This would help to explain why you accept a gift but do not give one on that occasion. On the other hand, it would be wise not to accept a gift if it is given with the clear intention of showing  that you do not stick to your beliefs or that you would compromise for the sake of material gain. 

Next time: Take Your Stand for True Worship/WHAT ABOUT FAMILY MEMBERS?

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Take Your Stand for True Worship

DO ORIGINS REALLY MATTER

Some agree that such holidays as Christmas have pagan origins but still feel that it is not wrong to celebrate them.  After all, most people are not thinking about false worship when they observe holidays. These occasions also give families opportunities to draw close together. Is this how you feel? If so, likely it is love of family, not love of false religion, that makes taking a stand for true worship seem difficult. Be assured that Jehovah, the one who originated the family, wants you to have a good relationship with your relatives.  (Ephesians 3:14, 15) But you can strengthen such bonds in ways that God approves.  Regarding the matter that should be our chief concern, the apostle Paul wrote:  "Keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord." -Ephesians 5:10.

Maybe you feel the origins of holidays have little to do with how they are celebrated today?  Do origins really matter?  Yes, to illustrate:  Suppose you saw a piece of candy lying in the gutter. Would you pick up that candy and eat it?  Of course not! That candy is unclean. Like that candy, holidays may seem sweet, but they have been picked up from unclean places. To take a stand for true worship, we need to have a viewpoint like that of the prophet Isaiah, who told true worshipers:  "Touch nothing unclean." -Isaiah 52:11. 

Next time: Take Your Stand for True Worship/ DISCERNMENT IN DEALING WITH OTHERS

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

Take Your Stand for True Worship

THE ORIGIN OF CHRISTMAS

It was not until several hundred years after Jesus lived on the earth that people began to commemorate his birth on December 25.  But that was not the date of Jesus' birth, for it evidently took place in October.  So why was December 25 chosen? Some who later claimed to be Christian likely  "wished the date to coincide with the pagan Roman festival marking the 'birthday of the unconquered sun.' " (The New Encyclopedia Britannica) In winter, when the sun seems weakest, pagans held ceremonies to get this source of warmth and light to come back from its distant travels.  December 25 was thought  to be the day that the sun began to return. In an effort to convert pagans, religious leaders adopted this festival and tried to make it seem "Christian."  

The pagan roots of Christmas have long been recognized .  Because of its unscriptural origin, Christmas was banned in England and in some of the American colonies during the 17th century. Anyone who even stayed home from work Christmas day had to pay a penalty.  Soon, though, the old customs were back, and some new ones were added.  Christmas once again became a big holiday, and that is what it still is in many lands.  Because of the connections that Christmas has with false religion, however,  those who want to please God do not celebrate it or any other holiday that has its roots in pagan worship.  

Next time: Take Your Stand for True Worship/DO ORIGINS REALLY MATTER?

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Take Your Stand for True Worship

CHRISTMAS-NOT CELEBRATED BY EARLY CHRISTIANS 

A person's worship could be contaminates by false religion as it relates to popular holidays.  Consider Christmas, for example.  Christmas supposedly commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, and nearly religion that claims to be Christian celebrates it. Yet, there is no evidence that the first-century disciples of Jesus observed such a holiday.  The book Sacred Origins of Profound Things states:  "For two centuries after Christ's birth, no one knew, and few people cared, exactly when he was born." 

Even if Jesus' disciples had known the exact date of his birth, they would not have celebrated it. Why?  Because, as the World Book Encyclopedia says,  the early Christians "considered the celebration of anyone's birth to be a pagan custom."  The only birthday observances mentioned in the Bible are those of two rulers who did not worship Jehovah.  (Genesis 40:10; Mark 6:21) Birthday celebrations were also held in honor of pagan deities. For example, on May 24 the Romans celebrated  the birthday of the goddess Diana. On the  following day, they observed the birthday of their sun-god, Apollo.  Hence, birthday celebrations were associated with paganism, not with Christianity. 

There is another reason why first-century Christians would not have celebrated Jesus' birthday. His disciples likely  knew that birthday celebration were connected with superstition. For instance, many Greeks and Romans of ancient times believed that a spirit attended the birth of each human and protected that one throughout life.  "This spirit had a mystic relation with the god on whose birthday the individual was born," says the book The Lord of Birthdays.  Jehovah certainly would not be pleased with any observance that would link Jesus with superstition.  (Isaiah 65:11, 12) So how did Christmas come to be celebrated by many people? 

Next time: Take Your Stand for True Worship/ THE ORIGIN OF CHRISTMAS 

From the book:  WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Take Your Stand for True Worship

IMAGES AND ANCESTOR WORSHIP

Some have had images or shrines in their home for years.  Is that true of you? If so, you might feel that it is strange or wrong to pray to God without such a visible aid. You may even feel attached to some of these items.  But God is the one who says how he should be worshiped, and the Bible teaches that he does not want us to use images.  (Exodus 20:4, 5; Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 42:8; 1 John 5:21) So you can take a stand for true worship by destroying any items you own that are connected with false worship. By all means, come to view them as Jehovah does-as something "detestable." -Deuteronomy 27:15. 

Ancestor worship is also common in many false religions.  Before learning Bible truth, some believed that the dead are conscious  in an invisible realm and that they can help or harm the living.  Perhaps you used to go to great lengths  to appease your dead ancestors.  But as you learned in Chapter 6 of this book, the dead have no conscious existence  anywhere.  Thus attempts to communicate with them are of no use.  Any messages that seem to come from a dead loved one really originate with the demons.  Therefore, Jehovah forbade the Israelites  to try to talk with the dead or to participate  in any other  form of spiritism. -Deuteronomy 18:10-12. 

If the use of images or the practice of ancestor worship was part of your former way of worship, what can you do?  Read and ponder  over Bible passages that show you how God views these things. Pray to Jehovah daily about your desire to take a stand for true worship, and ask him to help you to think as he does. -Isaiah 55:9. 

Next time: Take Your Stand for True Worship/ CHRISTMAS-NOT CELEBRATED BY EARLY CHRISTIANS

From the book:  WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH? 

CHAPTER SIXTEEN: Take Your Stand for True Worship

What does the Bible teach about the use of images?

What view do Christians take of religious holidays?

How can you explain your beliefs to others without offending them?


SUPPOSE you found out that your whole neighborhood has been contaminated.  Someone has secretly been dumping poisonous waste in the area, and now the situation is life threatening. What would you do?  No doubt, you would move away if you could. But after doing that, you would still face this serious question, 'Have I been poisoned?

A similar situation arises with regard to false religion. The Bible teaches that such worship is contaminated with unclean teachings and practices.  (2 Corinthians 6:17)  That is why it is important  for you to get out of "Babylon the Great,"  the world empire of false religion.  (Revelation 18:2, 4)  Have you done this?  If so, you are to be commended.  But more is involved than just separating yourself,  'Do any traces of false worship remain in me?' Consider some examples.  

Next time:  CHAPTER SIXTEEN: Take Your Stand for True Worship/IMAGES AND ANCESTOR WORSHIP

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?

Worship That God Approves

WHAT WILL YOU DO?

Simply believing in God is not enough to please him. After all, the Bible says that even the demons believe that God exists.  (James 2:19) Obviously, though, they do not do God's will and do not have his approval. To be approached by God, not 0nly must we believe in his existence but we must also do his will. We must also break free from false religion and embrace true worship.

The apostle Paul showed that we must not  take part in false worship.  He wrote:  "Get out from among them, and separate yourselves,' says Jehovah, 'and quit touching the unclean thing'; 'and I will take you in.' " (2 Corinthians 6:17; Isaiah 52:11) True Christians therefore avoid anything that is connected with false worship.

The Bible shows that all the many forms of false religion are part of "Babylon the Great."  (Revelation 17:5) That name calls to mind the ancient city of Babylon, where false religion started up after the flood of Noah's day.   Many teachings and practices now common in false religion originated long ago in Babylon.  For example, the Babylonians worshiped trinities,or triads, of gods. Today, the central doctrines of many  religions is the Trinity.  But the Bible clearly teaches that there is only one true God, Jehovah, and that Jesus Christ is his Son.  (John 17:3)  The Babylonians also believed that humans have an immortal soul that survives the body after death and can suffer in a place of torment.  Today, belief in the immortal soul or spirit that can suffer in hellfire is taught by most religions.

Since ancient Babylon worship spread throughout the earth, modern Babylon the Great can properly be identified as the world empire of false religion.  And God has foretold that this empire of false religion will come to a sudden end.  (Revelation 18:8) Do you see why it is vital that you separate yourself from every part of Babylon the Great?  Jehovah God wants you to "get our of her" quickly while there is still time. - Revelation 18:4.  

As a result of your decision to quit practicing  false religion, some may choose to stop associating with you.  By serving Jehovah with his people, however, you will gain far more than you could ever lose. Like Jesus' early disciples who left other things to follow him, you will come to have many spiritual brothers and sisters.  You will become part of a worldwide family of millions of true Christians, who show you genuine love. And you will have the wonderful hope of everlasting life" in the coming system of things."  (Mark 10:28-30)  Perhaps in time, those who abandoned you because of your beliefs will look into what the Bible teaches and become worshipers of Jehovah. 

 The Bible teaches that God will soon bring an end to this wicked system of things and will replace it with a righteous new world under the rulership of his  Kingdom.  (2 Peter 3:9, 13)  What a marvelous world that will be! And in that righteous new system, there will be only one religion, one true form of worship . Is it not the course of wisdom for you to take the necessary steps to come into association with true worshipers right now?  

Next time: CHAPTER SIXTEEN: Take Your Stand for True Worship

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?