THE BIBLE/GOD'S VIEWPOINT - The Cross

Many people view the cross as the symbol of Christianity. Yet, not all believe that crosses should be worn or should be displayed in homes and churches.

Did Jesus die on a cross?

WHAT SOME PEOPLE SAY

 The Romans executed Jesus by hanging him on a cross made of two pieces of wood. 

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS 

Jesus was executed "by hanging on a tree."  (Acts 5:30, The New Jerusalem Bible, and the King James Version)  Both of the words used by the Bible writers to describe the instrument of Jesus' death suggest one piece of wood, not two. The Greek word stau-ros,' according to Crucifixion  in Antiquity means "a pole in the broadest sense. It is not the equivalent of a 'cross. ' " The word xy'lon, used at Acts 5:30, is  "simply an upright pole or stake to which the Romans nailed those  who were thus said to be crucified.' 

The Bible also relates the method of Jesus' execution  to an ancient Israelite law.  The law stipulated:  "If a man commits a sin deserving the sentence of death and he has been put to death and you have hung him on a stake, . . . the one hung up is something accursed of God."  (Deuteronomy 21:22, 23) Referring to that law, the Christian apostle Paul wrote that Jesus became "a curse instead of us, because it is written:  'Accursed is every man hung upon a stake [xy'lon].'" Paul thus indicated that Jesus died  on a stake-a single piece of wood.  

Next time: THE BIBLE'S/GOD'S VIEWPOINT -The Cross 

From the jw.org publications 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE -When Children Grieve

JEANNIE'S STORY

When I was seven years old, my mom died of cancer.  That whole seemed surreal.  I recall that she died at home and that my grandparents were there.  I remember that everyone was calm. I remember that we had scrambled eggs for dinner.I felt as if my whole life were turning upside down in slow motion.

At the time-and for years after that-I though I had to be strong for my little sister, so I buried my emotions. Even today, I tend to suppress painful feelings, and that's not healthy.

I remember the love and support we had from the local congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. Even though we had just started attending meetings at the Kingdom Hall, fellow believers rallied around us as if we had been family for years. I don't think my dad had to cook dinner for an entire year because it was always waiting by the front door.

One scripture that stands out to me is Psalm 25:16, 17. There the psalmist implored God:  "Turn your face to me and show me favor, for I am alone and helpless.  The distresses from my heart have multiplied;  free me from my anguish."    It is comforting for me to know that you are never really alone when you sad. God is there for you. With help from the Bible, I have been able to move forward with my life and focus on positive things, such as the Bible's comforting promise of a resurrection. I have hope of seeing my mother again and getting to know her in perfect health on a paradise earth.-2 Peter 3:13. 

Next time: THE BIBLE'S/GOD'S VIEWPOINT - The Cross

From the jw.org publications 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When Children Grieve

DERRICK'S STORY

Some of the best memories I have are of fishing with my dad and camping with him in the mountains. He loved the mountains. 

My dad had heart problems for some time; I remember visiting with him in the hospital once or twice in my early childhood.  But I didn't  understand the severity of his illness.  My dad died of heart disease when I was nine years old.

After he died, I cried and cried. I felt as if I were suffocating, and I didn't want to talk to anyone.  I hadn't felt this bad in my whole life, and I didn't feel like doing anything anymore. The church youth group I was part of showed interest in me initially, but it quickly faded. People there would say things like this,  "It was your father's time" or God called him"  or He's in heaven now."  Those answers never really satisfied me, but I had no knowledge of what the Bible really teaches about those things. 

Then my mom started studying the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses, and later my brother and I joined her.  We learned about the condition of the dead as well as God's  comforting promise of a resurrection.  (John 5:28, 29)  But the scripture that helped me the most was  Isaiah 41:10, where God says:  "Do no be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you ."  Knowing that Jehovah was with me was a tremendous comfort during my grieving, and it still is. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE -When Children Grieve -JEANNIE'S STORY

From the jw.org publications

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When Children Grieve

DAMI'S STORY

At first, it seemed to be a simple headache. But when my dad's pain got worse, my mom called an ambulance. I still remember the paramedics taking him away. Little did I know that it was the last time I would see him alive. Three days  later, my dad died as a result of an aneurysm. I was just six years old. 

For years, I blamed myself for my dad's death. In my mind I would replay that scene of the paramedics taking him away, and I would ask myself:  'Why did I just stand there?  Why didn't I do something?' I would look at older ones with health problems  and wonder, 'Why are they alive and my dad isn't?'[  In time, my mom helped me to talk about my emotions.  And as Jehovah's Witnesses, we had wonderful support from the congregation. 

Some people think that you can grieve right a tragedy and then be over it, but that wasn't the case with me.  I didn't really grieve until I was in my early teens. 

My advice to young people who have lost a parent in death is,"Talk to someone about what you're going through. It may be that the sooner you let your emotions out, the healthier it will be for you. 

Yes, it's hard to go through milestones in my life and know that my dad isn't here with me.  But I find comfort in the Bible's promise at Revelation 21:4, which says that soon God "will wipe out every tear from [our] eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When Children Grieve -DERRICK'S STORY

From the jw.org publications 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When a Parent Dies

YOU CAN HELP OTHERS

"My family and I are Jehovah's Witnesses.  A few years ago, two children we know lost their mother to cancer.  They were 6 and 3 years old-virtually the same ages my sister and I were when our dad died nearly 17 years earlier.

"My mom, my younger sister, my brother, and I decided to make ourselves available to this family. We would invite them over. We would let them talk when they needed to. We would spend time with them and be whatever they needed us to be at the moment, whether is was someone to play with them or listen to them or give advice.

"Losing a parent is devastating, and you never get over it. It gets easier, but you are constantly reminded of your loss. I knew what this grieving family was going through, and that's one reason why I'm glad our family reached out to them.  It helped us to draw closer to them and to each other as well." -Dami.

Next time; HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When Children Grieve

From the jw.org publications 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When a Parent Dies

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Talk to someone. You might be inclined to isolate yourself during this difficult time. But pouring out your feelings to a family member or a friend will help you to deal with your emotions and keep this tragedy from overwhelming you. -Bible principle: - Proverbs 18:24.

Keep a journal.  Write about the parent you lost. For example, what is your most cherished memory of that person? Write about his or her commendable qualities. Which ones would you like to imitate in your life? 

If you are plagued with negative thoughts-for example, if you cannot stop thinking about something harsh you said to your parent before he or she passed away-write down what you feel and why. For example,  "I feel guilty because I had an argument with my dad the day before he died."

Next, challenge the reasonableness of your guilt.  "You cannot blame yourself for not knowing there would never be an opportunity to apologize," says The Grieving Teen.  "To suggest that one must never say or do anything that might call for a future apology is simply not realistic." - Job 10:1.

Take care of yourself.  Get adequate rest, sufficient exercise, and proper nutrition. If you do not feel like eating, have a number of healthful snacks throughout the day instead of full meals-at least until your appetite returns to normal. Do not soothe your grief with junk food or alcohol; they will only make things worse.

Talk to God in prayer.   The Bible says:  "Throw your burden on Jehovah, and he will sustain you." (Psalm 55:22)  Prayer is not merely an emotional crutch. it is real communication with the God who "comforts us in all our trials." -2 Corinthians 1:3, 4. 

One way that God comforts those who mourn is through his Word,the Bible.  Why not examine what it teaches about the true condition of those who have died and the hope of a resurrection? -Bible principle: Psalm 94:19. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE  - YOU CAN HELP OTHERS

From the jw.org publications 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When a Parent Dies

THE CHALLENGE

Dami was six years old when an aneurysm claimed the life of her dad. Derrick was nine when his father died of heart disease. Jeannie was seven when her mom passed away after a year-long battle with ovarian cancer.

All too soon, these three young people were confronted with the  death of a loved one. Have you had a similar experience?  If so, this article can help you come to terms with your loss. First, though, consider a few facts about grieving.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

There are many ways to grieve.  This means that the way you express your sorrow might differ from the way others do so.  "Coping with a death does follow a simple pattern or set of rules," says the book Helping Teens to Cope with Death.  The important thing is that you do not unduly suppress your grief. Why?  Because . . .

Suppressing grief can be harmful.  Jeannie, mentioned at the outset, says:  "I thought I had to be strong for my little sister, so I buried my emotions. Even today, I tend to suppress feeling, and that's not healthy."

Experts would agree.  "Feelings denied or bottled up won't stay bottled up forever," says the book The Grieving Teen.  "They will return when you least expect [them to] in the form of emotional flare-ups or physical ailments. "Suppressed grief can also lead to the abuse of alcohol or drugs, all done in an effort to numb the pain.  

Grieving may be accompanied by confusing emotions.  For example, some people feel anger at the person who died, feeling that the person "abandoned" them. Others blame God, thinking that he should have prevented the death. Many who grieve feel guilt for things they did or said to the person, since there is now no way to  make amends.

Clearly, grieving can be a complex process. How can you get relief and be helped to move forward?  

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When a Parent Dies/WHAT YOU CAN DO

From the jw.org publications 

What Does the Bible Teach About Spiritism? -Conclusion of UNSAVORY ORIGINS

Maria thought she had a gift from God that enabled her to help people.  "But something disturbed me,"  she admits. "When I read the cards, I read them for others. I was not able to read them for myself, even though I wanted to know my own future."

Perplexed by many unanswered questions, Maria prayed to God and was later contacted by Jehovah's Witnesses, with whom she began to study the Bible.  Maria learned from the Bible that her ability to foretell the future did not come from God. She learned, too, that those who want God's friendship must get rid of any objects  connected with spiritism.  (1 Corinthians 10:21) The result?  Maria threw away her occult paraphernalia and books. She now shares with others the accurate truths she has learned from the Bible. 

When Michael was a teenager, he was an avid reader of fantasy novels about supernatural characters.  "I enjoyed identifying with heroes my age who explored imaginary worlds," he says.  Little by little, Michael grew accustomed to reading books about magic and Satanic rituals.  "Curiosity made me want to read books and watch movies that dealt with these subjects," he admits.  

However Michael's study of the Bible impressed on him the need to examine carefully what he was reading.  "I drew up a list of everything that had a link with spiritism and got rid of it all," he says.  "I learned an important lesson. At 1 Corinthians 10:31, the Bible says:  'Do all things for God's glory.'   Now I ask myself, 'Is my reading o this material involving me with something contrary with God's glory?  If so, I avoid it."

The Bible is appropriately described as a lamp. It is a unique source of enlightenment that exposes spiritism for what it really is.  (Psalm 119:105) But the Bible does more. It holds out a marvelous promise of a world free of the power of wicked spirits.  The effect on humankind will be immense.   For example, Psalm 37:10, 11 states:  "Just a little while longer, and the wicked will be no more; you will look at where they were, and they will not be there.  But the meek will possess the earth, and they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace."

What Is Spiritism?

Interest in spiritism is reflected in such activities as astrology, witchcraft, and the occult.  In many parts of the world, people try to communicate with wicked spirits with the help of a psychic or a witch doctor. Many use divination to try to find out about the future.  The look at the stars, search for omens, use a crystal ball, read the palm of a person's hand, or have their own palm read. Books, magazines, and movies present spiritism as harmless or intriguing.  Some communication experts suggest that TV programs and movies portray the paranormal as strongly influenced what people believe.  

We invite you to learn more by reading chapter 1o of the book What Does the Bible really teach?  It is published by Jehovah's Witnesses and is available for free download on jw.org. 

Note: Just wanted to let you know that all of my blogs are taken from jw.org, which are taken from Jehovah's Words from the Bible.  This is my calling to do these blogs, and I am very proud to represent Jehovah God.  I am trying to help people, by getting God's Word out  so that they can have the same wonderful benefit that all his other servants have with his friendship and worshiping him always.  He is much more dependable than any human being on this earth, in this system of things.  I love people and would not ever wish them any harm in anyway, but to trust them, well I would rather take my chances with a wild animal. At least you know what to expect of them. With humans, they act like your friend one minute and the next, may stab you in the back with words or actions of some kind, not necessarily literally.   I am not saying this to be cruel,  but like others, I have experienced the cruelty of others.   Now, since I have God in my life, I still don't trust people, but I make an effort to be kind and to help others when I am able, because that is what I was taught by by my mother and what Jehovah would expect. As my mother use to say; You catch more bees with honey than you do with vinegar. Kindness will get you a long way, where being cruel will get you nothing but enemies.   Turn the other cheek, if you will. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - When a Parent Dies 

From the jw.org publications 




   

What Does the Bible Teach About Spiritism? -UNSAVORY ORIGINS

The Bible tells us that long before God formed the earth, he created millions of spirit creatures, or angels.  (Job 38:4, 7; Revelation 5:11) Each of these angels was endowed with free will-the ability to choose between right and wrong. Some of them chose to rebel against  God, and they abandoned their  position in heaven to cause trouble on the earth. As a consequence, the earth became filled with violence." -Genesis 6:2-5, 11; Jude 6.

The Bible says those wicked angels  wield great influence, misleading millions of people.  (Revelation 12:9)  They even exploit  mankind's natural curiosity about the future. -1 Samuel 28:5, 7; 1 Timothy 4:1. 

True, some supernatural powers seem to help people.  (2 Corinthians 11:14)  In reality, however, the wicked angels are attempting to blind people's minds to the truth about God. -2 Corinthians 4:4. 

According to the Bible, therefore, contact with wicked spirits is not harmless fun. That is why when potential disciples of Jesus were taught the truth about such activities,  "those who had practiced supernatural methods brought their books together and burned them up," even at significant financial loss. -Acts 19:19, Byington.

Likewise, many today have decided to having to do with activities and entertainment rooted in spiritism. For example, when Maria was 12 years old, she seemed to be able to predict certain future events or dangers. She read tarot cards for her schoolmates, and since her predictions came true, she became fascinated with the occult.   

Next time: What Does the Bible Teach About Spiritism? - Conclusion of UNSAVORY ORIGINS

From the jw.org publications and God's Word (just to be clear here) 

What Does the Bible Teach About Spiritism?

ALTHOUGH many people are skeptical about anything related to the supernatural and spiritism-considering them to be either a hoax or the product of the film industry's creative scriptwriters-the Bible presents a different view.  It provides explicit warnings about spiritism.  For instance, Deuteronomy 18:10-13 states:  "There should not be found in you . . . anyone who employs divination, anyone practicing magic, anyone who looks for omens, a sorcerer, anyone binding others with a spell, anyone consults a medium or a fortune-teller, or anyone who inquires of the dead."  Why not? The scripture further states:  "Whoever does these things  is detestable to Jehovah . . .You should prove yourselves blameless before your God.""

Why does the bible so strongly censure all forms of spiritism?

Next time: What Does the Bible Teach About Spiritism? -UNSAVORY ORIGINS 

From the jw.org publications 

WHAT IS BEHIND THE SUPERNATURAL?/ Intrigued by the Supernatural

"Move over, vampires, werewolves, and zombies-demonic possession and exorcism are taking over." -The Wall Street Journal.


WIZARDS young and old, seductive witches, and good-looking vampires-these are just some of the supernatural characters that invaded the book, movie, and video-game industries. What is the appeal?

"Belief in ghosts has soared in recent decades, from on in ten Americans to one in three," writes Sociology professor Claude Fischer. "Young Americans are about twice as likely as old Americans to say they have consulted psychics, believe in ghosts, and believe in haunted houses." 

Not surprisingly, stories about evil spirits inhabiting humans are making a frightening comeback.  "The reborn success of demonic possession in popular culture owes something to the zombie, werewolf, and vampire surge of the past decade," writes Michael Calia in the Wall Street Journal.

One report states that "anywhere from 25 percent to 50 percent of people worldwide believe in ghosts feature prominently in the literature of most cultures." And a survey done in the United States by sociology professors Christopher Bader and Carson Mencken "revealed that a staggering 70 to 80 percent of Americans strongly believe in at least one type of paranormal activity.

Is involvement with spiritism and the paranormal just innocent fun?

Note: No! It is Satan doing more destructive work to get people to believe that crap, in order to keep them from worshiping God. Satan gets the word across to  the ignorant people like writers and producers etc., who come up with all this 
ghosts and paranormal crap and when people this garbage, they invite Satan one way or another into their lives.  This also happens when you associate with people, or are married to people who do not believe in God, you invite all kinds of trouble when you  go along with all that, believe me.  Hard as it is for you to believe,  It is true. This also can happen if you just live with someone who does not believe in God, it will affect the non-believers of ghosts and paranormal activity, which basically the same, because it is all Satan, his demons and their destructive work.  Satan will do anything and make people believe anything he wants,  just to get what he wants out of it-his form of worship.   I am so grateful and blessed that I have God in my life now and never want  to live without him again.    Without Jehovah God, I have nothing. 

Next time:What Does the bible Teach About Spiritism?

From the jw.org publications 

The Four Horsemen and You - BETTER TIMES ARE AHEAD!

The present times of trouble will soon end. Remember this: Jesus "went out conquering"  in 1914, confining Satan to the earth, but Jesus did not then complete his conquest.  (Revelation 6:2; 12:9, 12) Soon, during Armageddon, Jesus will remove Satan's influence and will destroy the Devil's human supporters.  (Revelation 20:1-3) Jesus will not only terminate the ride of the other three horsemen but even reverse the effects of their destructive ride. How so?  Consider what the Bible promises. 

Instead of war, peace will reign. Jehovah "is bringing an end to wars throughout the earth.  He breaks the bow and shatters the spear."  (Psalm 46:9) As for peace-loving people, "they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." -Psalm 37:11.

Instead of famine, there will plenty of food.  "There will be an abundance of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains it will overflow." -Psalm 72:16.

Instead of plague and death, there will be perfect health and eternal life for all.  God "will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." -Revelation 21:4. 

When Jesus lived on earth, he provided a heartwarming preview of future conditions under his rulership. He promoted peace, miraculously fed thousands, and cured the sick, and even raised the dead to life again. -Matthew 12:15; 14:19-21; 26:52; John 11:43, 44. 

Jehovah's Witnesses would be delighted to show you in your Bible how you can be ready when the ride of those horsemen ends. Will you accept an invitation to learn more? 

THE FOUR HORSEMEN REVEALED

WHITE HORSE

The rider pictures Jesus Christ. He began ruling in 1914 and will soon complete his conquest, ending all suffering.6:1, 2

FIERY-COLORED HORSE

The rider represents warfare. World wars and smaller conflicts have taken countless lives since 1914,  Revelation 6:3, 4. 

THE BLACK HORSE

The rider denotes famine. Food shortages have ended or ruined lives of tens of millions, Revelation 6:5, 6.

PALE HORSE

The rider brings premature death due to disease and other factors.  The Grave gathers up the victims,  Revelation 6:7, 8 

Next time: WHAT IS BEHIND THE SUPERNATURAL? /Intrigued by the Supernatural

From the jw.org publications 

The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE PALE HORSE

"I saw and look! a pale horse, and the one seated upon it had the name Death.  And the Grave was closely following him. And authority was given them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with a long sword and with food shortage and with deadly plague and by the wild beasts of the earth." -Revelation 6:8. The fourth rider represents death due to plague and other causes. Soon after 1914, the Spanish flue killed tens of millions. Possibly some 500 million people were infected about 1 out of every 3 humans then alive! 

But the Spanish flue was the beginning.Experts estimate that hundreds of millions are cut short died of smallpox during the 20th century. To this day, the lives of millions are cut short by AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, despite intensive medical research.

The result is the same, death-whether due to war, famine, or plague. The Grave relentlessly gathers up the victims, offering no hope. 

Next time: The Four Horsemen and You - BETTER TIMES ARE AHEAD!

From the jw.org publications 

The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE BLACK HORSE

"I saw, and look! a black horse, and the one seated upon it had a pair of scales in his hand. I heard what sounded like a voice in the midst of the four living creatures say:  'A quart of wheat for a denarius and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the olive oil and the wine.'" -Revelation 6:5, 6. 

This rider represents famine. We find a here a picture of food rationing so severe that a quart (1.08 L)  of wheat would cost one denarius, a whole day's wage in the first century!  (Matthew 20:2) The same coin could purchase three quarts (3.24 L) of barley, a grain viewed as inferior to wheat. How far would that go to feed a large family?  People are then warned to be frugal even with daily foodstuffs, aptly pictured by such basic staples of that time and culture as olive oil and wine. 

Since 1914, have we seen evidence that this rider of the black horse has been on the move?  Yes, about 70 million people died in famines during the 20th century. One authority estimated that "805 million people-about one in nine of the world's population-were chronically undernourished in 2012-2014."  Another report states:  "Hunger kills more people every year than AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis combined"  In spite of may earnest efforts to feed the hungry, the rider of the black horse continues to ride. 

Next time: The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE PALE HORSE

From the jw.org publications 

The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE RED HORSE

"Another came out, a fiery-colored horse, and it was granted to the one seated on it to take peace away from the earth so that they should slaughter on another, and he was given a great sword." -Revelation 6:4.

This  rider represents warfare. Notice that he takes peace away from not just a  few nations but the whole earth. In 1914, for the first time in history, a global war erupted. It was followed by a second world war, which even more destructive.  Some estimates place the total number of deaths due to wars and armed conflicts since 1914 at more than 100 million!  In addition, vast numbers  of other individuals suffered debilitating injuries. 

To what extent does warfare characterize the present time?  For the first time in history, mankind appears to have the ability to extinguish all human life. Even so-called peacekeeping organizations, such as the United Nations, have not been able to stop the rider of the red horse.  

Next time: The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE BLACK HORSE

From the jw.org publications

The Four Horsemen and You -Conclusion of THE RIDER OF THE WHITE HORSE

When did the horsemen begin their ride? Note that the first rider, Jesus begins his ride when he receives a crown.  (Revelation 6:2) When was Jesus crowned as King in heaven?  It was when he returned to heaven after his death.  The Bible shows that a period of waiting began back then.  (Hebrews  10:12, 13) Jesus gave his followers a means of recognizing the end of that waiting period and the beginning of his reign in heaven.  He said that at the beginning of his rule, world conditions would take a decisive turn for the worse.  There would be warfare,food shortages, and pestilences.  (Matthew 24:3, 7; Luke 21:10:11) Soon after World War I broke out in 1914, it became apparent that mankind had entered that era, a troubled time on earth that the Bible calls "the last days." -2 Timothy 3:1-5. 

But why have we seen conditions that are worse, not better, since Jesus received his crown in 1914?  Because at that time, Jesus began ruling in heaven, not on earth.  War then broke out in heaven, and new installed King, Jesus referred to as Michael, cast Satan and his demons to the earth.  (Revelation 12:7-9, 12) Confined here, Satan has been full of rage ever since, knowing that his days are numbered. Indeed, it will not be long before God will carry out his will against Satan  here on the earth. (Matthew 6:10)  Now, let us see how the other horsemen help to confirm that we are, in fact, living during the troubled "last days."  Unlike the first horsemen, who clearly pictures a specific individual, the three that follow represent global conditions that have swept across human society. 

Next time: The Four Horsemen and You -THE RIDER OF THE RED HORSE

From the jw.org publications 

The Four Horsemen and You - THE RIDER OF THE WHITE HORSE

The vision begins this way:  "I saw, and look! a white horse, and the one seated on it had a bow; and a crown was given him, and he went  out conquering and to complete his conquest." -Revelation 6:2. 

Who is the rider of the white horse?  The key to his identity is found in the same Bible book, Revelation, which later identifies this heavenly rider as "The Word of God." (Revelation 19:11-13) That title, The Word, belongs to Jesus Christ, for he acts as God's spokesman.  (John 1:1, 14) In addition, he is called "King of kings and Lord of lords" and is described and True."  (Revelation 19:16)  Clearly, he has authority to act as warrior-king, and he does not wield his power in any corrupt or abusive way. Yet, some questions arise.

Who gives Jesus the authority to conquer? (Revelation 6:2) The prophet Daniel saw a vision in which the Messiah, likened to "a son of man," was given "rulership, honor,and a kingdom" by none other than "the Ancient of Days," Jehovah God. (Daniel 7:13, 14)  Thus, it is Almighty God who grants Jesus the power and right to rule and execute judgment.  The white horse is an appropriate symbol for warfare justly carried out by God's Son, for the Scriptures  often use the color white to symbolize righteousness. -Revelation 3:4; 7:9, 13, 14. 

Next time: Continue with THE RIDER OF THE WHITE HORSE

From the jw.org publications

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and You/The Four Horsemen and You

They burst forth, hooves thundering!  The four  mighty horses and their riders made a picture so vivid that it almost seems to leap from the pages of the Bible!  The first horse is white-its rider a glorious, newly crowned king. Behind him comes a horse the color of fire, bearing a rider who takes peace away from all earth. There follows a third horse, black as midnight, carrying a rider who holds aloft a pair of scales as a doleful message is proclaimed about a lack of foodstuffs.  The fourth horse is a sickly  pale color, a harbinger of disease and other lethal threats,ridden by Death itself. And the Grave, the common grave of mankind, follows closely, reaping a terrible harvest of lives!n -Revelation 6:1-8.

"I was scared the first time I read about the four horsemen. I felt that Judgment day was coming and that since I was not ready, I would not survive." -Crystal.

"I was fascinated the first time I read about the four distinctive riders on different-colored horses. Once i understood what the vision meant, It all made sense." -Ed.

Can you identify with the way Crystal felt about the four horsemen of the Apocalypse?  Or do you feel the way Ed did?  In either case, the epic ride of those four horsemen forms one of the best-known scenes in Revelation, the last book of the Bible. Did you know that you can benefit personally by understanding this vision?  How? God promises that you can find real happiness by reading, learning from, and living by the things written in that prophetic book. -Revelation 1:1-3.

While some are frightened by the vision of the four horsemen, it is not designed to scare you. In fact, millions have found that this vision strengthens their faith and even points them  to the hope of a bright future. It can mean the same for you!  Please read on.

The Four Horsemen -Who Are They?

The four horsemen may seem mysterious and terrifying, but that does not have to be the case. Why not? Because the Bible and the events of modern history helps us to identify clearly what each horsemen pictures. And although their ride has signaled calamity on earth, it can also mean good news for you and your family. How so, first, let us determine the identity of each horsemen. 

Next time: The Four Horsemen and You/ THE RIDER OF THE WHITE HORSE

From the jw.org publications 

Conclusion of TEACH YOUR CHILDREN/What Can We Learn From a Criminal?

What do you think? Will Jesus be here on the earth with the criminal who was sorry for his sins? -No, Jesus will be in heaven ruling as King over the Paradise earth.  So Jesus will be with the criminal when he raises him from the dead and see that he is taken care of the Paradise on earth.  But why will Jesus  let a man who was a criminal live in Paradise? -Let's talk about this.

It is true that this criminal did very bad things. But so have billions of other people who have lived on earth.  Most of them, however, did bad things because they were never taught about Jehovah and what he wanted them to do.

So people like that, including the criminal Jesus spoke to on the stake,  will be resurrected to life in Paradise right here on earth. They will be taught what God's will is. Then they can prove that they love Jehovah.  

Do you know how they can prove that?

By doing what God wants them to do. How wonderful it will be then to live in Paradise and always be with people who love Jehovah and one another! 

Next time:The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and You/The Four Horsemen and You

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TEACH YOUR CHILDREN/What Can We Learn From a Criminal?

The criminal we can learn from is the one you see Jesus speaking to in the picture.  That criminal is sorry for his crimes. He asks Jesus:  "Remember me when you get into your kingdom."  Do you know what Jesus is saying to him?  -Jesus is promising him:  "Truly  I tell you today, you will be with me in Paradise."

What do you think that Paradise will be like?  To make sure we get the right answer, let's talk about the Paradise that God made for the first man and woman, Adam and Eve.  Where was that Paradise?  Was it in heaven, or was it on earth?

 You are right if you say it was on earth. So when we think of the criminal being "in Paradise," we should think of him living right here on earth when it becomes a paradise.  What will that Paradise be like?  - Let's see.

After Jehovah God created the first human pair, Adam and Eve, the Bible says that he put them in a paradise right here on earth. It was called  "a garden in Eden." Can you imagine how beautiful the "garden in Eden" must have been? -Surely, it was a nicer and more beautiful place to live in that anyone today has ever seen? 

Next time: Conclusion of TEACH YOUR CHILDREN/What Can We Learn From a Criminal?

From the jw.org publications 

Conclusion of ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH? - A New "City"

Since the apostle Paul had the greatest respect for God's Law and the temple arrangement, his words obviously do not imply that these divine arrangements were to be looked down on.   (Acts 21:20-24)  Paul was so simply showing that the Christian arrangement was superior to the Jewish system.

No doubt Paul and other Jewish Christians of the first century had specific knowledge of many fascinating details  of the Jewish system of things.  And since archaeology opens windows to the past, some of those details  can  now be appreciated  by Christians. Yet, note  where Paul told the young man Timothy to focus his main attention:  "Ponder over these thing [having to do with the Christian congregation]; be absorbed  in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons." -1 Timothy 4:15.

Commendably, Biblical archaeology has expanded our understanding of the background of the Bible. Yet, Christians realize that their faith is dependent, not on evidence unearthed by men, but on God's Word, the Bible. -1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. 

Next time: TEACH YOUR CHILDREN/What Can We Learn From a Criminal?

From the jw.org publications 

ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH?

A New "City"

On Pentecost 33 C.E., the Jewish nations lost its favored position before God.  (Matthew 21:43) This made way for something much greater -a heavenly government that would bring blessings to all mankind.  (Matthew 10:7)  True to Jesus' prophecy, Jerusalem with its temple was destroyed in 70 C.E.  Archaeology supports the Bible's record of such an event. Yet, for Christians, faith is not dependent on whether ruins  of that ancient temple have been found. But this one is a different type of city.

In the year 96 C.E., the apostle John, who had heard Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple and had lived to see its fulfillment, was given the following  vision:  "I saw also the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God."  A voice from the throne said:  "He will reside with [mankind], and they will be his peoples.  And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out ever tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning not outcry nor pain be anymore." -Revelation 21:2-4. 

This "city" is made up of faithful Christians who will serve as kings with Christ in heaven.  Together they form the heavenly government-God's Kingdom-that will rule over the earth, bringing the humans race back to perfection during the Millennium.  (Matthew 6:10; 2 Peter 3:13)  The first century Jewish Christians who were to be part of that group realized that nothing they had in the Jewish system of things could be compared with the privilege of ruling with Christ in heaven. 

The apostle Paul, writing of his former prominent position in Judaism, speaks for them all: "What things were gains to me, these I have considered loss on account of the Christ.  Why, for that matter, I do indeed also consider all things to be loss on account of the excelling value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." -Philippians 3:7, 8. 

Next time: Conclusion of ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH? -A New "City"

From the jw.org publications 

ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH?

In 1873 the English clergyman Samuel Manning wrote concerning Jerusalem:  "Dawn by an irresistible attraction, pilgrims flock hither from the ends of the earth. The crumbling walls, the squalid filthy streets, the mouldering ruins, are regarded with a profound and reverential interest by millions of mankind, such as no other spot on earth can excite." 

THE Lure of the Holy Land has drawn people since at least the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine.  For some 1,500 years, pilgrims came and went, seeking a religious, personal contact with the Holy Land.  Yet, surprisingly, it was not until the early 19th century that scholars began accompanying these pilgrims, thus opening the era of Biblical archaeology-the study of the artifacts, peoples,  places, and languages of the ancient Holy Land. 

The findings of archaeologists have resulted in an increased understanding of many aspects of Bible times. Also, the archaeological record has often harmonized with Bible history.  But is such knowledge  necessary to a Christian's faith?  To answer, let us focus our attention on the site of many archaeological digs-the city of Jerusalem and its temple.

'A Stone Will Not Be Left Upon a Stone'

On the Jewish calendar date of Nisan 11, in the spring of 33 C.E., Jesus Christ, accompanied by some of his disciples, left the temple in Jerusalem for the last time. As they made their way to the Mount of Olives, one of the disciples said: "Teacher, see! what sort of stones and what sort of buildings!"-Mark 13:1.

These faithful Jews felt a deep love for God and his temple.  They were proud  of this magnificent complex of buildings and the 15 centuries of tradition they represented. Jesus' reply to his disciple was shocking:  "Do you behold these great buildings? By no means will a stone be left her upon a stone and not be thrown down." -Mark 13:2. 

Now, that the promised Messiah had arrived, how could God allow the destruction of his own temple? Only gradually, with the aid of his holy spirit, would Jesus' disciples fully grasp what he meant.  What, though, do Jesus' words have to do with Biblical archaeology?  

Next time: ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH? 

From the jw.org publications 

The Great Irish Famine An Epic of Death and Emigration -BY AWAKE! WRITER IN IRELAND

Disease and a Third Crop Failure After two successive failed potato crops and mass evictions, the decimate population had to contend with yet another savage blow. Disease!  Typhus, dysentery, and scurvy claimed more lives. Many of the survivors must have thought that things could not possibly get worse, but they were wrong. 

Encouraged by a successful crop in 1847, farmers trebled the acreage of potato planting in 1848.  Then came catastrophe! That summer proved to be very wet.  Blight struck once more.  The crop was lost for the third time in four seasons. Government agencies and charities were stretched to the breaking point. Even then, the worst was not over. In 1849 a cholera epidemic claimed the lives of a further 36,000. 

The Aftermath

The epidemic, however, marked a turning point.  The next potato crop was successful. Slowly, things turned improved.  The government enacted new laws that canceled all debts resulting from the famine.  The population begin to grow once more. Although the blight affected a few crops in the following years, there was again anything approaching the scale of the horrors that  accounted for the loss of over a quarter of Ireland's population during these tragic years of famine. 

Today, all over Ireland broken-down stone walls and ruined houses stand as a stark reminder of the harsh times that resulted in the wide-spread Irish diaspora.  In the United States alone, over 40 million can claim Irish descent. U.S. President John F.Kennedy as well as Henry Ford, inventor of the For motor car, were directly descended  from emigrants who sailed from Ireland on famine ships.  

The repeated failure of the potato crop was of course, a major factor in the sad story of death and emigration. Another important factor in this sad story was what the ancient Bible writer described as "man dominating man to his injury.' (Ecclesiastes 8:9) Thankfully, we are assured of God's Word, the Bible, that the Creator of the earth and all its produce will establish a paradisaic new world, bringing lasting peace and prosperity to all.  (2 Peter 3:13) Also, the ancient psalmist foretold:  "There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow." -Psalm 72:16. 

Next time: ARCHAEOLOGY NECESSARY FOR FAITH?

From the jw.org publications 

The Great Irish Famine An Epic of Death and Emigration - BY AWAKE! WRITER IN IRELAND

Emigration En Masse

Emigration was not new. Since the beginning o the 18th century, there had been a steady trickle of emigrants from Ireland to Britain and America. After the winter  of 1845, the trickle became a torrent!  By 1850, 26 percent   of the residents of New York were Irish-there were more Irish-born citizens there than in Ireland's capital city, Dublin.

During the six years of the famine, five thousand ships mad the hazardous  3,000 mile journey across the Atlantic.Many of the ships were old. Some had previously  served as slave ships.  They only continued in service because of the emergency. Little improvement had been made in their claustrophobic living quarters. There was not sanitation, and passengers had to survived on only the barest rations.

Thousands of passengers, already weakened by the famine, became sick.  Many died while at sea. In 1847, ships bound for Canada came to be coffin ships. Of the 100,000 or so emigrants they carried over 16,000 died either at sea or soon after landing. Letters sent back to friends and relatives in Ireland told of these perilous conditions-but still the emigrants left in droves.

A few landlords assisted their former tenants. One, for example, chartered three ships and contributed toward the passage of a thousand of his tenants. Most emigrants though, had to struggle to find their own fare.  Often only one or two from a large family could afford the passage.  Imagine the heartbreak at the dockside  as thousands of family members said farewell-likely never to see one another again.  

Next time: The Great Irish Famine An Epic of Death and Emigration -BY AWAKE! WRITER IN IRELAND -Disease and a Third Crop Failure

From the jw.org publications