NO MORE SICKNESS
Isaiah 33:24: "No resident will say: 'I am sick."'
Think about a world in which no one will suffer from heart disease, cancer, malaria, or any other ailment. Gone will be the need for hospitals and medications. Perfect health-that is for the future for earth's inhabitants.
Next time: Promises That Will Come True - Continue
From the jw.org publications
NO MORE WAR
Psalm 46:9: "[God is bringing an end to wars throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the military wagons with fire."
Imagine what the world would be like if all the money and the expertise that is now being spent to create weapons were channeled into areas that would benefit people rather than kill them! That promise will become a reality under God's Kingdom.
Next time: Promises That Will Come True - Continue
From the jw.org publications
The good news of God's Kingdom is being preached in all the earth, just as Jesus prophesied. (Matthew 24:14) The Bible book of Daniell tells us that this Kingdom is a government by God. Chapter 2 of that book contains a prophecy that traces the progression of certain dominant human governments, from ancient Babylon down to our day. Foretelling what lies ahead, verse 44 says this:
"The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. And this kingdom will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms; it alone will stand forever."
Note: Just remember, God's view of time is not ours. Remember what happened when the Flood Noah's Day happened, the people Noah was trying to help was warning what going to happen thought it would not happen because they did not know God's view of Time, so they did not take it seriously. People, you really need to do now while you have what little time left there is to get to know the TRUE GOD Jehovah, which is his name.
Next time: Promises That Will Come True - Continue
From the jw.org publications
Today the Arch of Titus is much admired by the hundreds of thousands of people each year who visit the Roman Forum. Some view the arch as a majestic work of art, others as tribute to imperial Roman power, and yet others as an epitaph to fallen Jerusalem and its temple.
Careful readers of the Bible, however, view the Arch of Titus as having even greater significance. It is a silent witness that confirms the reliability and accuracy of Bible prophecies and establishes that they are inspire by God. - 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Next time: Promises That Will Come True
From the jw.org publications
In 71 C.E., Titus returned to Italy to a rapturous reception from the citizens of Rome. The whole city turned out celebrate one of the greatest triumphal processions ever staged in the capital.
The crowds marveled as untold wealth paraded through Rome's streets. They feasted their eyes on captured ships, massive floats depicted battle scenes from the war, and items plundered from Jerusalem's temple.
Titus succeeded his father Vespasian as Emperor in 79 C.E. But just two years later, Titus died unexpectedly. Domitian, his brother took the throne and promptly erected a triumphal arch in Titus's honor.
Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy - THE ARCH TODAY
From the jw.org publications
The following year, Rome renewed its campaign against Judea, headed by General Vespasian and his son Titus. However, soon after Emperor Nero died in 68 C.E., Vespasian return to Rome to assume the throne, leaving the Judea to his son Titus with an army of some 60,000.
In June 70 C.E., Titus ordered his soldiers to strip the Judean countryside of trees, which were used in building a 7-kilometer-long (4.5 mi) wall of pointed stakes around Jerusalem. By September the Romans had plundered and burned the city and its temple and had torn them apart stone by stone, just as Jesus had earlier foretold. (Luke 19:43, 44) According to a conservation estimate, "between a quarter and half million people perished in Jerusalem and the rest of the country."
Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy - AN IMPERIAL TRIUMPH
From the jw.org publications
Thirty-three years passed, and Judea still chafed under the Roman yoke. But in 66 C.E. when the Roman procurator of Judea, Gessius Florus. seized funds from the sacred temple treasure, the enraged Jews had had enough. Soon, Jewish fighters swarmed into Jerusalem, slaughtered the local Roman garrison, and declared their independence from Rome.
About three months later, over 30,000 Roman troops, led by Cestius Gallus, advance on Jerusalem to crush the rebellion. The Romans quickly penetrated the city and undermined the outer wall of the temple area. Then, for no apparent reason they retreated. The Jewish rebels rejoiced and promptly gave chase. With the warring parties away, the Christians, heeding Jesus' warning, fled from Jerusalem to the mountains beyond the Jordan River. - MATTHEW 24:15, 16.
Next time: DEATH OF A CITY - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Jesus' words evidently puzzled his disciples. Two days later, on viewing Jerusalem's temple, one of them exclaimed: "Teacher, see! what wonderful stones and buildings!" Indeed, some temple stones were reportedly over 11 meters (36 ft) long, 5 meters (16 ft) wide, and 3 meters (10 ft) high! Yet, Jesus replied: "As for these things that you now see, the days will come when not a stone will be left upon a tone and not be thrown down." - MARK 13:1; LUKE 21:6.
Jesus further told them: "When you see Jerusalem surrounded by encamped armies, then know that the desolating of her has drawn near. Then let those in Judea begin fleeing to the mountains, let those in the midst of her leave, and let those in the countryside not enter into her." (Luke 21:20, 21) Did Jesus' words come true?
Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy - DEATH OF A CITY
From the jw.org publications
Early in the first century C.E., the Roman Empire stretched from Britain and Gaul (now France) to Egypt, and the region enjoyed unprecedented stability and prosperity. But one remote area was a source of constant frustration for Rome-the restless province of Judea.
The Encyclopedia of Ancient Rome states: "Few centuries under Rome's control were marked by such intense dislike, on both sides, as Judea. The Jews resented foreign masters who care about nothing for their traditions, and the Romans found Jewish stubbornness cause for severe intolerance." Many Jews hoped that a political messiah would expel the hated Romans and restore a golden era to Israel. But in 33 C.E., Jesus Christ declared that Jerusalem faced a coming catastrophe.
Jesus said: "The days will come upon you when your enemies will build around you a fortification of pointed stakes and will encircle you and besiege you from every side. They will dash you and and your children within you to the ground, and they will not leave a stone upon a stone in you." - LUKE 29:43, 44.
Next time: Next time: A City Condemned - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
IN CENTRAL ROME, ITALY STANDS A TRIUMPHAL ARCH THAT ATTRACTS VISITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. THE ARCH HONORS ONE OF ROME'S FAVORITE EMPERORS -TITUS
The Arch of Titus has two large reliefs depicting a well-known historical event. Less well-known, though is the fascinating link between the arch and the Bible-the Arch of Titus bears silent witness to the remarkable accuracy of Bible prophecy.
Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy - A CITY CONDEMNED
From the jw.org publications
Matthew 24:14: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come."
Jehovah's Witnesses, numbering more than eight million, have been bearing witness to the good news of God's Kingdom throughout the earth in some 240 lands. They proclaim the good news in sprawling cities and remoted villages, in jungles on mountains. The prophecy foretells that when this work is completed to God's satisfaction, "the end will come." What will that mean? It will mean the end of human rule and the dawn of rule by God's Kingdom. What promises will come true under God's Kingdom? Read on to find out.
Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy
From the jw.org publications
Luke 21:11: "There will be great earthquakes."
Each year, some 50,000 earthquakes are large enough to be felt by humans. About 100 bring substantial damage to buildings, and one very great earthquake occurs about every year. According to one estimate, between 1975 and 2000, earthquakes claimed the lives of 471,000 people.
Next time: PROPHECIES BEING FULFILLED TODAY -Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Some estimates place the total number of deaths in wars and armed conflicts since 1914 at well over a 100 million, a figure that surpasses the entire population of many nations. Imagine the tears, grief, and suffering represented by that colossal statistic. Have the nations taken note and put an end to war?
Matthew 24:7: "There will be food shortages."
The World Food stated: "In a world where we produce enough food to feed everyone, 815 million people-one in nine-still go to bed on an empty stomach each night. Even more-one in three -suffer from some form of malnutrition." It is estimated that each year some three million children die from hunger.
Next time: PROPHECIES BEING FULFILLED TODAY - Continue
From the jw.org publications
Would you agree that such behavior is increasingly evident in people today? Have you perceived that we are summoned by people who adore themselves, love money, and are driven by pride? Have you not observed that people are more demanding and less willing to agree with others? Surely you notice there is widespread disobedience to parents and that people in general love pleasures more than love God. And things are getting worse by the day.
Matthew 24:6, 7: "You are going to hear of wars and reports of wars. . . Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom."
Next time: PROPHECIES BEING FULFILLED TODAY - Continue
From the jw.org publications
Would you like to know what Bible prophecies have to say about our day? Some 2,000 years ago, the Bible foretold that "critical times hard to deal with" would come "in the last days." Last days of what? Not of the earth or humankind, but strife, oppression, and suffering that have plagued mankind for millenniums. Let us examine just a few of the prophecies that earmark "the last days."
2 Timothy 3:1-5: "In the last days . . .men will lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanders, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride, lovers of pleasure rather lovers of God, having an appearance of godliness but proving false to its power."
Next time: PROPHECIES BEING FULFILLED TODAY - Continue
From the jw.org publications
This remarkable prophecy is but one of dozens found in the Bible that unerringly came true. Unlike the predictions of men, often attributed to their false gods, Bible prophecies originate with the One who proclaimed: "From the beginning I foretell the outcome, and from long ago the things that have not yet been done." - ISAIAH 46:10.
Only the true God, whose name is Jehovah, can make such a claim. That name evidently means "He Causes to Become." It points to his ability to know and shape future events in harmony with his will. It assures us that he is certain to bring about all that he has promised.
Next time: PROPHECIES BEING FULFILLED TODAY
From the jw.org publications
Isaiah 45:1: "This what Jehovah says to his anointed one, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have taken hold of to subdue nations before him, to disarm kings, to open before him the double doors, so that the gates will not be shut.
The Persians have entered the city through the massive two-leaved doors in the city wall, which had carelessly been left open. Had the Babylonians been aware of what Cyrus was planning, they would have shut all the gates that opened onto the river. But as it was, they city was defenseless.
Next time: Prophecies That Have Come True - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Isaiah 44:24,27, 28: "This is what Jehovah says, . . .'the One saying to the deep waters, "Be evaporated, and I will dry up all your riverss"; The One saying of Cyrus, "He is my shepherd, and will completely carry out all my will"; the One saying of Jerusalem, "She will be rebuilt," and of the temple, "Your foundation will be laid."'
According to the Greek historian Herodotus, the army of Cyrus diverted the waters of the Euphrates River, which flowed through the city of Babylon. Cyrus strategy enabled his troops to enter the city along the riverbed. After taking the city, Cyrus freed the Jews who had been captive in Babylon and allowed them to return and rebuild Jerusalem, which had been destroyed 70 years earlier.
Next time: Prophecies That Have Come True - Continue
From the jw.org publications
Earlier we referred to the legend about Croesus' being misled by the oracle of Delphi, which in his defeat by the king of Persia. The Bible, on the other hand, contains a remarkable prophecy involving the king of Persia that was fulfilled in minute detail.
About 200 years in advance-long before the king was born-the Hebrew prophet Isaiah mentioned Cyrus by name and described how he would conquer the mighty city of Babylon.
Next time: Prophecies That Have Come True - Continue
From the jw.org publications
WHAT THE BIBLE TELLS US
The practice of astrology and fortune telling implies that our future is predetermined. But is it? The Bible tells us that we have the ability to choose what we believe or want to do and that our choices affect our future. - JOSHUA 24:15.
Worshippers of God have added reason to reject astrology and fortune-telling-God condemns all forms of divination. In the Bible we find these worlds: "There should 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 who consults a medium or a fortune-teller, or anyone who inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to Jehovah." - DEUTERONOMY 18:10-12.
Next time: Prophecies That Have Come True
From the jw.org publications
From ancient times, people have consulted fortune-tellers. Some practitioners looked for meaning in such things as the entrails of animals and humans or the way a rooster pecks at its grain. Others made projections based on patterns in tea leaves or coffee grounds. Today, the use tarot cards, crystal balls, dice, and other means to "read" a person's future. Is fortune-telling a reliable way to discern the future? No, it is not. Let us reason on the matter.
Consider the issue of consistency. The predictions of different fortune-telling methods often contradict on another. Even when the same method is used, forecasts vary. For example, if a person asks two fortune-tellers the same question about the future based on the "reading" of the same cards, logically the answers should be the same. But often are not.
Fortune-teller's methods or motives have come under suspicion. Critics say that the cards or crystal balls are mere props and that the fortune-teller reads the person's reactions better than the props. For example, a skilled fortune-teller will ask general questions and carefully watch for verbal and nonverbal clues that could reveal something about the client. The fortune-teller will then take credit for knowing facts and situations the client has just unknowingly given away. Having won the client's trust, some fortune-tellers have been able to obtain large sums of money from their customers.
Next time: Astrology and Fortune-Telling-Windows to the Future? - WHAT THE BIBLE TELLS US
From the jw.org publications
. The planets and the stars emit no force that could affect humans the way astrologers say they do.
. Often the predictions are so general that could apply to anyone.
. Astrological calculations today are made according to the ancient belief that the planets revolve around the earth. In fact, the planets revolve around the sun.
. Predictions made by different astrologers for the same individual do not match.
. Astrology classifies people under one of 12 categories, or zodiac signs, according to their birth date. Because of changes in earth's position in space over the centuries, the dates associated with the signs of the zodiac no longer correspond to when the sun passes through the constellations for which the signs were named.
The zodiac signs are said to give clues to a person's character. In reality. People who have the same birthday do not have the same traits; one's birth date reveals nothing about his or her personality. Instead of seeing people as they really are, astrologers judge a person's behavior by a set of assumptions. Is this not a form of prejudice?
Next time: Astrology and Fortune-Telling-A Window to the Future? - FORTUNE-TELLING
From the jw.org publications
ASTROLOGY
Astrology is a form of divination that holds the stars, the moon and the planets significantly influence the lives of people on earth. Astrologers claim that the position of these celestial bodies at the time of one's birth shapes his or her personality and future.
Though the roots of astrology can be traced to ancient Babylon, it remains popular. According to a 2012 survey in the United States, one third of those surveyed thought that astrology was "sort of scientific," and 10 percent said that it was "very scientific." Is it? No. Here is why.
Next time: Astrology and Fortune-Telling-Windows to the Future? - Continue
From the jw.org publications
In their effort to discern the future, some in the ancient world consulted oracles-priests of priestesses who passed on information from the god they claimed to represent. For instance, it is said that King Croesus of Lydia sent gifts of great value to the oracle at Delphi, Greece, with a request to learn what the outcome would be if he fought against Cyrus of Persia. The oracles said that Croesus would destroy "a great empire" if he marched against Cyrus. Confident of victory, Croesus sallied forth, but the great empire that destroyed was his own!
The ambiguous forecast of the oracle was worthless; it would have appeared true no matter which side son the war. Croesus was paid dearly for misinformation that brought him disaster. Have those who turn to today's popular methods of predicting the future fared any better?
Next time: Astrology and Fortune-Telling-Window to the Future? /Astrology
From the jw.org publications
Have you ever wondered what the future will be for you and your family? Does it promise riches or ruin, love or loneliness? Will you live a long life, or will your life be cut short? People have speculated about such questions for thousands of years.
Today experts study global trends and make projections about the future. While many of their forecasts have come true, others have failed, some miserably. For example, in 1912, Guglielmo Marconi, the inventor of a wireless telegraph, was noted as predicting: "The coming of the wireless era will make war impossible." And an agent of the Decca Record Company, who rejected the Beatles in 1962m believed that guitar-playing groups were on the way out.
Many turn to the supernatural for clues about the future. Some seek the advice of astrologers; horoscopes are a regular feature in many magazines and newspapers. Others consult fortune-tellers or psychics, who claim to "read" the future by interpreting patterns in tarots cards, numbers, or the lines of one's hand.
Next time: Predicting the Future - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Jesus corrects a wrong idea
Jesus knew that some had misinterpreted the rule of "an eye for an eye." He corrected them when he said: "You heard that it was said: 'Eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth.' However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your righ cheek, turn the other also to him." - MATTHEW 5:38, 39.
Note Jesus' expression "you heard that it was said." He was apparently referring to some Jewish religious leaders who taught retaliation. Bible scholar Adam Clarke noted: "It seems that the Jews made this law [an eye for an eye] . . . a ground for authorizing private resentments, and all the excesses committed by a vindictive spirit." By encouraging vindictiveness, those religious leaders distorted the intent of God's Law. - MARK 7:13.
In contrast, Jesus emphasized that love is the dominant spirit of God's Law. He said: "You must love Jehovah your God . . .'This is the greatest and first commandment. The second like it, is like this: "You must love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments the whole law hangs." (Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus taught that love, not vindictiveness, would identify his true followers. - JOHN 13:34, 35.
Next time: Predicting the Future
From the jw.org publications
Misconceptions about the "eye for an eye" rule
Misconception: The "eye for an eye? rule was excessively harsh.
Fact: The rule did not authorize a heavy-handed, cruel application of justice. Rather, when properly applied, it meant that qualified judges would impose retribution for an offense only after considering the circumstances involved and the extent to which the offense was deliberate. (Exodus 21:28-30; Numbers 35:22-25) The "eye for an eye" rule thus acted as a restraint against extremes in punishment.
Misconception: The "eye for an eye" rule authorized an endless cycle of personal vengeance.
Fact: The Mosaic Law itself stated: "You must not take vengeance nor hold a grudge against the sons of your people." (Leviticus 19:18) Rather than promoting personal vengeance, the Law encouraged people to trust in God and in the legal system that he had authorized to right any wrongs. - DEUTERONOMY 32:35.
Next time: What Does "an Eye for an Eye" Mean?/The Bible's answer - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Does the "eye for an eye" rule apply to Christians?
No, this rule is not binding on Christians. It was part of the Mosaic Law, which Jesus' sacrificial death abolished. - ROMANS 10:4.
Even so, the rule provides insight into God's way of thinking. For example, it shows that God values justice. (Psalm 89:14) It also reveals his standard of justice-namely, that wrongdoers should be disciplined "to the proper degree." - JEREMIAH 30:11.
Next time: What Does "an Eye for an Eye" Mean?/The Bible's answer - Continue
From the jw.org publications
What was the purpose of the "eye for an eye" rule?
The "eye for an eye" rule did not authorize or sanction vigilante justice. Rather, it helped appointed judges to impose harsh punishments that were appropriate, being neither too harsh nor too lenient.
The rule also served as a deterrent to any who would intentionally harm others or scheme to do so. "Those who remain [those who observed God's justice being carried out] will hear and be afraid," explained the Law, "and they will never do anything bad like among you." - DEUTERONOMY 19:20.
Next time: What Does "an Eye for an Eye" Mean?/The Bible's answer - Continue
From the jw.org publications
The rule for "an eye for an eye" was part of God's Law given by Moses to ancient Israel and was quoted by Jesus in his Serman on the Mount. (Matthew 5:38, King James Version; Exodus 21:24, 25; Deuteronomy 19:21) It that when dealing out justice to wrongdoers, the punishment should fit the crime.
The rule applied to deliberate injurious acts against another person. Regarding a will full offender, the Mosaic Law stated: "Fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, the same sort of injury he inflicted should be inflicted on him." - LEVITICUS 24:20.
Next time: What Does "an Eye for an Eye" Mean?/The Bible's answer - Continue
From the jw.org publications
Misconception about angels: Angels are immortal.
Fact: Wicked angels, including Satan, will be destroyed. -JUDE 6.
Misconception: People become angels when they die.
Fact: Angels are a separate creation of God, not resurrected humans. (Colossians 1:16) People who are raised to life in heaven receive the gift of immortal life from God. (1 Corinthians 15:53, 54) They will have a status higher than the angels. - 1 CORINTHIANS 6:3.
Misconception: Angels exist to serve humans.
Fact: Angels obey God's commands, not ours. (Psalm 103:20, 21) Even Jesus acknowledged that he would call on God for help, not directly on angels. - MATTHEW 6:23.
Misconception: We can pray to angels for help.
Fact: Prayer to God is part of our worship, which belongs to Jehovah God. (Revelation 19:10) We should pray only to God, through Jesus. -JOHN 14:6.
Next time: What Does "an Eye for an Eye" Mean?/The Bible's answer
From the jw.org publications
Do we each have a guardian angel?
Although angels look out for the spiritual welfare of God's servants, this does not necessarily mean that God assigns and angel to each Christian as a persona guardian. (Matthew 18:10) Angels do not protect God's servants from every trial or temptation. The Bible shows that God will often "make the way out" of a trial by giving the person wisdom and strength to endure. - 1 CORININTHIANS 10:12, 13; JAMES 1:2-5.
Misconceptions about angels
Misconception: All angels are good.
Fact: The Bible refers to "the wicked spirit forces" and the "the angels who sinned." (Ephesians 6:12; 2 Peter 2:4) These wicked angels are demons, joined Satan in rebelling against God.
Next time: Who or What Are Angels?/The Bible's answer - Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Are there different ranks among angels?
Yes. The angel greatest in both power and authority is Michael, the archangel. (Jude 9; Revelation 12:7) Seraphs are high-ranking angels who are stationed near Jehovah's throne. (Isaiah 6:2, 6) Cherubs form another high-ranking order of angels having special duties. For example, cherubs guarded the entrance to the garden of Eden after Adam and Eve were expelled. - GENESIS 3:23, 24.
Do angels help people?
Yes, God uses his faithful angels to help people today.
. Angels are used by God as he directs his servants in the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom of God. (Revelation 14:6, 7) This direction benefits those who preaching and those hearing the good news. - ACTS 8:26. 27.
. Angels help to keep the Christian congregation free of contamination by wicked people. - MATTHEW 13:49.
. Angels guide and protect those who are faithful to God. - PSALM 34:7; 91:10,11; HEBREWS 1:7, 14.
. Soon the angels will bring relief to mankind by fighting alongside Jesus Christ to eliminate wickedness. -2 THESSALONIANS1:6-8.
Next time: Who or What Are Angels?/The Bible's answer -Continue
From the jw.org publications
Do Angels have individual names and personalities?
Yes. The Bible gives the names of two angels: Michael and Gabriel. (Daniel 12:1; Luke 1:26) Other angels acknowledged that they had names, but they did not reveal them." GENESIS 32:29; JUDGES 13:17,18.
Angels have distinct personalities. They can communicate with one another. (1 Corinthians 13:1) They have thinking ability and are able to compose expressions of praise to God. (Luke 2:13, 14) And they have the freedom to choose between right and wrong, as seen when some of them sinned by joining Satan in his rebellion against God. - MATTHEW 25:41; 2 Peter2:4.
Next time: Who or What Are Angels?/The Bible's answer - Continue
From the jw.org publications
James 4:7: "Subject yourselves to God; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you."
Meaning: A person can defeat Satan by obeying God rather than the Devil.
1 Peter 5:8: "Your adversary, the Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone."
Meaning: The Devil hates those who obey God and wants to destroy their friendship with him.
Note: Also, Satan uses any reason or excuse to lure you away from God, like idols from sports, movies that have violence in them, sexually explicit, immorality, sexual preferences no natural, etc. the list goes on.
Next time: Who or What Are Angels?/ The Bible's answer
From the jw.org publications
2 Corinthians 11:14: "Satan himself keeps disguising himself as an angel of light."
Meaning: Satan pretends to be good in order to fool people into following his teachings rather than God.
Ephesians 6:11: "Put on the complete suit of armor from God so that you may be able to stand firm against he crafty acts of the Devil."
Meaning: The Devil schemes to get people to disobey God.
Next time: What Does the Devil Look Like?/Bible verses about the Devil. - Continue
From the jw.org publications
The Bible uses a number of analogies regarding the Devil. These help us to understand, not his appearance, but his personality. Some of these analogies include:
. An angel of light. He pretends to offer something good to try to get people to follow his teachings, rather than those of God. -2 CORINTHIANS 11:14.
. A roaring lion. He fiercely attacks God's worshippers. - 1 PETER 5:8.
. A great dragon. He is frightful, powerful, and destructive. - REVELATION 12:9.
Next time: What Does the Devil Look Like?/Bible verses about the Devil -Continue
From the jw.org publications
The Devil is an invisible spirit, which means that he does not have a physical appearance. -EPHESIANS 6:11, 12.
A popular depiction of the Devil is that of a goatlike creature with horns, a tail, and pitchfork. Some have suggested that such depictions of the Devil were conceived by medieval artists who were likely influenced by folklore and ancient mythology.
Next time: What Does the Devil Look Like?/How does the Bible describe the Devil.
From the jw.org publications
. Michael commands an angelic army - Conclusion
The Bible mentions only one other name of someone having authority over an army of angels. It describes the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with his powerful angels in a flaming fire, as he brings vengeance." (2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8; Matthew 16:27) Jesus "went to heaven, and the angels and authorities and powers were made subject to him." (1 Peter 3:21. 22) It would not make sense for God to set up Jesus and Michael as rival commanders of the holy angels. Rather, it is more reasonable to conclude that both names, Jesus and Michael, refer to the same person.
. Michael "will stand up" during an unprecedented "time of distress." (Daniel 12:1) In the book of Daniel, the expression "stand up" is often used to refer to a king who rises up to take special action. (Daniel 11:2-4, 21) Jesus Christ, identified as "the Word of God," will take special action as the "King of kings" to strike down all of God's enemies and protect God's people. (Revelation 19:11-16) He will do so during a time of "great tribulation such as not occurred since the world's beginning." - MATTHEW 24:41, 42.
Next time: What Does the Devil Look Like?/The Bible's answer
From the jw.org publications
. Michael is "the archangel." (Jude 9) The title "archangel," meaning "chief of the angels," appears in only two Bible verses. In both cases the word is singular, suggesting that only one angel bears that title. One of those verses states that the resurrected Lord Jesus "will descend from heaven with a commanding call, with an archangel's voice." (1 Thessalonians 4:16) Jesus has "an archangel's voice" because he is the archangel, Michael.
. Michael commands an angelic army. "Michael and his angels battled with the dragon," Satan. (Revelation 12:7) Michael has great authority in the spirit realm, for he is called "one of the foremost princes" and the "great prince." (Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1) These titles designate Michael as "the commander-in -chief of the angelic forces," as New Testament Scholar David E. Aune puts it.
Next time: Who Is the Archangel Michael?/The Bible's answer -Conclusion
From the jw.org publications
Michael, referred to by some religions as "Saint Michael," is evidently6 a name given to Jesus before and after his life on earth. Michael disputed with Satan after the death of Moses and helped an angel deliver God's message to the prophet Daniel. (Daniel 10:13, 21; Jude 9) Michael lives up to the meaning of his name-"Who Is Like God?" -by defending God's rulership and fighting God's enemies. - DANIEL 12:1; REVELATION 12:7.
Consider why it is reasonable to conclude that Jesus is the archangel Michael.
Next time: Who Is the Archangel Michael?/The Bible's answer -Continue
From the jw.org publications
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