"SEARCH FOR JEHOVAH AND HIS STRENGTH"

Seek the Power That Jehovah Gives

Jehovah can empower his servants as well as protect them. The Bible urges us to "search for Jehovah and his strength." (Psalm 105:4) Why? Because when we do things in God's strength, our power will be used for the benefit, rather than the harm, of others. Nowhere do we find a better example of this than in Jesus Christ, who performed many miracles In "Jehovah's power." (Luke 5:17) Jesus could have dedicated himself to becoming rich, famous, or even an all-powerful king. (Luke 4:5-7) Instead, he used the power God gave him to train and to teach,m to help and to heal. (Mark 7:37; John 7:46) What a fine example for us!

Furthermore, when we do things in "the strength that God supplies," This will help us to keep humble. (1Peter 4:11) men who seek power for themselves become presumptuous. A case in point is Assyrian King Esar-haddon, who boastfully declared: "I am powerful, I am all powerful, I am a hero, I am gigantic, I am colossal." In contrast, Jehovah "chose the weak things of the world, that he might put the strong things to shame." Thus, if a true Christian boasts, he boasts in Jehovah, for he knows that what he has done has not been accomplished in his own strength. 'Humbling ourselves under the mighty hand of God' will bring true exaltation. - 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; 1Peter 5:6.

How do we draw on God's strength? First of all,we have to ask for it in prayer. Jesus assured his disciples that his Father would give holy spirit to those requesting it. (Luke 11:10-13) Consider how this imbued Christ's disciples with power when they chose to obey God rather than the religious leaders who had ordered them to stop witnessing about Jesus. When they prayed for Jehovah's help, their sincere prayer was answered, and holy spirit it empowered them to continue preaching the good news with boldness. -Acts 4:19, 20, 29-31, 33.

Next time: Conclusion of Seek the Power That Jehovah Gives

Watchtower, 2000

JEHOVAH -THE ONE WHO IS VIGOROUS IN POWER

Jehovah Reveals His Power to His Servants

On several occasions, Jehovah manifested his might to his servants. One of such occasions was at Mount Sinai in 1513 B.C.E. During that year the Israelites had already seen impressive evidence of God's power. Ten devastating plagues had revealed the strong hand of Jehovah and the importance of Egyptian gods. Soon thereafter, the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh's army gave further proof of divine strength. Three months later, at the foot of Mount Sinai, Jehovah invited the Israelites to become his "special property out of all other peoples." For their part, they promised: "All that Jehovah has spoken we are willing to do." (Exodus 19:5, 8) Then, Jehovah provided a vivid demonstration of his power. Amid thunder and lightning and the loud sound of a horn, Mount Sinai smoked and trembled. The people, standing at a distance, were terrified. But Moses told them that this experience should teach them godly fear, a fear that would move them to obey their all-powerful and only true God, Jehovah. -Exodus 19:16-19; 20:18-20.

Several centuries later, during the time of Elijah, Mount Sinai witnesses another display of divine power. The prophet had already seen God's power at work. For three and a half years, God "shut up the heavens" because the apostasy of the Israelite nation. (2 Chronicles 7:13) During the resulting drought, ravens fed Elijah in the torrent valley of Cherith, and later a widow's meager supply of flour and oil was miraculously extended to provide him with food. Jehovah even empowered Elijah to resurrect this widow's son. Finally, in a dramatic test of Godship on Mount Carmel, fire came down and consumed Elijah's sacrifice. (1 Kings 17:4-24; 18:36-40) Nevertheless, soon thereafter, Elijah became afraid and discouraged when Jezebel threatened to kill him. (1 Kings 19:1-4) He fled the country, thinking that his work as a prophet was over. To reassure and strengthen him, Jehovah kindly gave him a personal demonstration of divine power.

While Elijah hid in a cave, he saw an awe-inspiring exhibition of three of the forces that Jehovah controls: a strong wind, an earthquake, and finally a fire. However, when Jehovah spoke to Elijah, he did so in "a calm, low voice." He assigned him more work to do and informed him that there were still 7,000 faithful worshipers of Jehovah in the land. (1 Kings 19:9-18) If, like Elijah, we ever feel discouraged at the lack of results in our ministry, we can petition Jehovah for "power beyond what is normal" - a power that can strengthen us to continue preaching the good news without letup. -2 Corinthians 4:7.

Next time: Jehovah's Power Guarantees the Fulfillment of His Promises

Watchtower, 2000

God Does Answer Prayers

What if You Feel Unworthy to Pray?

Some sincere people may feel unworthy to pray because of their bad way of life. Jesus Christ told the story of such a man, a despise tax collector. Entering the temple courtyard, this man felt unworthy to come to the customary place of prayer. "Standing at a distance . . . [he] kept beating his breast, saying, 'O God, be gracious to me a sinner.' " (Luke 18:13) According to Jesus, this man received a favorable hearing. This proves that Jehovah God is indeed gracious and wants to help sincerely repentant sinners.

Consider a young South African man name Paul. As a boy, Paul had attended Christian meetings with his mother. But during his high school years, he began associating with young people who did not follow God's ways. After leaving school, he served in the army of South Africa's former apartheid government. Then, unexpectedly, his girlfriend broke off their relationship. This unsatisfying way of life left Paul feeling very depressed. "One evening," he recalls, "I prayed to Jehovah and asked for his help, even though I had not approached God sincerely for years."

Not long after this prayer, Paul's mother invited him to attend the annual Memorial of Christ's death. (Luke 22:19) Paul found it strange that his mother did this, as he had been wayward and had shown little interest in the Bible. "I viewed this invitation as Jehovah's answer to my prayer and felt that I had to reciprocate." From that time onward, Paul began attending all Christian meetings. After four months of Bible study, he qualified for baptism. Moreover, he terminated his engineering studies and chose the career of sharing in the full-time evangelizing work. Today, Paul is a happy man, no longer depressed about his past life. For the last 11 years, he has served at the branch office of the Watchtower Society in South Africa.

Indeed, Jehovah God graciously answers prayers and "becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him." (Hebrews 11:6) Soon the great day of Jehovah will arrive and bring an end to all wickedness. In the meantime, Jehovah is answering the prayers of his people for strength and guidance as they zealously share in the vital work of witnessing. Thus, millions of individuals from all nations are being brought into contact with the Christian congregation and are being blessed with Bible knowledge that leads to everlasting life. -John 17:3.

Next time: JEHOVAH -THE ONE WHO IS VIGOROUS IN POWER

Watchtower, 2000

The Power of Prayer

In his unselfish ministry, Paul suffered from what he described as "at thorn in the flesh." (2 Corinthians 12:7) This could have been the mental and emotional distress caused by oppossers and "false brothers." ( 2 Corinthians 11:26; Galatians 2:4) Whatever the case, this "thorn in the flesh" had a weakening effect on Paul. "I three times entreated the Lord that it might depart from me," he wrote. However, Paul's request was not granted. It was explained to Paul that the spiritual benefits he had already received from God, such as power to endure trials, were sufficient. Furthermore, God said: "My power is being made perfect in weakness." - 2 Corinthians 12:8, 9.

What do we learn from the examples of Eliezer and Paul? Jehovah God indeed listens to the prayers of those who humbly seek to serve him. But this does not mean that he always grants their requests because God has a long range view of matters. He knows better than we do what is in our best interests. More important, he always acts in harmony with his stated purpose as recorded in the Bible.

Next time: A Time for Spiritual Healing

Watchtower, 2000

ARE YOU MOVED TO ACT AS JESUS WAS?

He Urged Others to Witness

Priority put on preaching and teaching-as an expression of love and compassion-was not for Jesus alone. He urged his followers to imitate his motives, priorities and actions. For instance, after Jesus selected his 12 apostles, what were they to do? Mark 3:14, 15 tells us: "He formed a group of twelve, whom he also named 'apostles,' that they might continue with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to expel the demons." Do you see any priority for the apostles?

In time, Jesus did enable the 12 to heal others and to expel demons. (Matthew 10:1; Luke 9:1) He then sent them on a tour to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel." To do what? Jesus directed them: "As you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.' Cure sick people, raise up dead persons, make lepers clean, expel demons." (Matthew 10:5-8; Luke 9:2) What, in fact, did they do? "So they set out and [1] preached in order that people might repent; and [2] they would expel many demons and grease many sickly people with oil and cure them." -Mark 6:12, 13.

Since teaching is not in every instance mentioned first,is noting the above sequence reading too much into the matter of priorities or the motives involved? (Luke 10:1-9) Well, we should not discount the frequency with which teaching is mentioned before healing. Consider the context in this case. Just before sending out the 12 apostles, Jesus had been touched by the condition of the crowds. We read: "Jesus set out on a tour of all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the good news of the kingdom and curing every sort of disease and every sort of infirmity. On seeing the crowds he felt pity for them, because they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples: 'Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.' " -Matthew 9:35-38.

By being with him. The apostles could absorb some of the mind of Christ. They could sense that their being truly loving and compassionate toward people included preaching and teaching about the Kingdom- that was to be a principal aspect of their good works. In line with that, the fine deeds of a physical nature, such as healing the sick, did more than help the needy. As you can imagine, some people might be drawn by cures and miraculously provided food. (Matthew 4:24,25; 8:16; 9:32, 33; 14:35, 36; John 6:26) Beyond being of physical help, however, those works actually moved observers to recognize that Jesus was the Son of God and "the prophet" that Moses had foretold. -John 6:14; Deuteronomy 18:15.

Why was it significant that Jesus was "the prophet?" Well, what was the key role foretold for that one? Was "the prophet" to be famous for performing miraculous healings or compassionately producing food for the hungry? Deuteronomy 18:18 predicted: "A prophet I shall raise up for them from the midst of their brothers, like you [Moses]; and I shall indeed put my words in his mouth, and he will certainly speak to them all that I shall command him." So even as the apostles learned to have and express tender feelings, they could conclude that the mind of Christ was to be evidenced also in their preaching and teaching activity. that would be the very best that they could do for his people. By that means, the sick and the poor could gain permanent benefits, not just those limited to a shore human life span or a meal or two. -John 6:26-30.

Next time: Develop the Mind of Christ Today

Watchtower, 2000

ARE YOU MOVED TO ACT AS JESUS WAS?

Moved to Respond to Spiritual Needs

Jesus felt pity for those around him primarily because of their spiritual needs. those needs were of chief importance, more so then physical needs. Consider the account of mark 6:30-34. The incident recorded there took place on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, close to the time of the Passover in 32 C.E. The apostles were excited, and for good reason. Having just completed an extensive tour, they came to Jesus, no doubt eager to tell him their experiences. However, a crowd gathered. It was so large that Jesus and his apostles could neither eat nor rest. Jesus told the apostles: "Come, you yourselves, privately into a lonely place and rest up a bit." (Mark 6:31) Boarding a boat, probably near Capernaum, they sailed across the Sea of Galilee to a quiet place. But the crowd ran along the shore and arrived ahead of the boat. How would Jesus respond? Was he upset that his privacy was disturbed? Not at all!

Jesus' heart was touched by the sight of this crowd of thousands, including sick ones, who eagerly awaited him. (Matthew 14:14; Mark 6:44) Focusing on what aroused Jesus' compassion and how he responded, Mark wrote: "He saw a great crowd, but he was moved with pity for them, because they were as sheep without a shepherd. And he started to teach them many things." (Mark 6:34) Jesus saw more than a mass of people. He saw individuals having spiritual needs. They were like sheep straying helplessly, having no shepherd to guide them to green pastures or to protect them. Jesus knew that the cold hearted religious leaders, who were suppose to be caring shepherds, actually despised the common people and neglected their spiritual needs. (Ezekiel 34:2-4; John 7:47-49) Jesus would treat them differently,doing the greatest possible good for them. He began teaching them about God's Kingdom.

Notice the sequence and the suggestion of priority evident in a parallel account. This was written by Luke, who was a physician and keenly interested in the physical well-being of others. "The crowds . . . followed [Jesus]. And he received them kindly and began to speak to them about the kingdom of God, and he healed those needing a cure." (Luke 9:11; Colossians 4:14) Though it is not so with every account of a miracle, in this case,what did Luke's' inspired account note first? It was the fact that Jesus taught the people.

This actually agrees with the emphasis that we find at Mark 6:34. That verse clearly shows how Jesus was principally moved to express his pity. He taught the people, responding to their spiritual needs. Earlier in his ministry, Jesus had said: "To other cities I must declare the good news of the kingdom of God, because for this I was sen forth." (Luke 4:43) Still, we would be mistaken, if we though that Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom message out of mere duty, as if he perfunctorily went through the motions of the preaching work that he had to do. No, his loving compassion for the people was a key motivation for his sharing the good news with them. The ultimate good that Jesus could do-even for the sick, the demon afflicted the poor, or the hungry-was to help them to know, accept, and love the truth about God's Kingdom. That truth was of central importance because of the role of the Kingdom in vindicating Jehovah's sovereignty and providing permanent blessings for humans.

Jesus' active preaching about the Kingdom was at the core of the reason why he came to earth. Near the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus told Pilate: "For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone that is on the side of truth listens to my voice." (John 18:37) We have noted in the two preceding articles that Jesus was a person of tender feelings-caring, approachable, considerate, trusting and above all, loving, We need to appreciate those aspects of his personality if we truly want to understand the mind of Christ. It is equally important to realize that the mind of Christ includes the priority he placed on his preaching and teaching work.

Next time: He Urged Others to Witness

Watchtower, 2000

ARE YOU MOVED TO ACT AS JESUS WAS?

DOWN through history many individuals have manifested admirable qualities. You can understand why. Jehovah God possesses and displays love, kindness, generosity and other qualities that we esteem. Humans were created in God's image. So we can appreciate why many would show a degree of love, kindness compassion and other divine qualities, even as most reflect a conscience. (Genesis 1:26; Romans 2:14, 15) You may realize, though, that some display these qualities more readily than others.

Probably you are acquainted with men and women who often visit or aid the sick, show compassion to the handicapped, or give generously to the poor. Think, too, of individuals whose compassion moves them to expend their lives working in leper colonies or orphanages, those who do volunteer work in hospitals or hospices, or people who strive to assist the homeless or those who are refugees. Likely, some of them feel that they are imitating Jesus, who set the pattern for Christians. We read in the Gospels that Christ healed the sick and fed the hungry. (Mark 1:34; 8:1-9; Luke 4:40) Jesus' displays of love, tenderness and compassion are reflections of "the mind of Christ," who in turn was imitating the heavenly Father. - 1 Corinthians 2:16.

Have you observed, though, that today many of those touched by Jesus' love and compassion overlook a key feature of the mind of Christ? We can gain insight into this by a careful consideration of Mark chapter 6. We read there that people brought the sick to Jesus to be healed. In the context, we also learn that upon seeing the thousands who had come to him had grown hungry, Jesus fed them miraculously. (Mark 6:35-44, 54-56) Healing the sick and feeding the hungry were outstanding displays of loving compassion, but were they the primary ways in which Jesus helped others? And how can we best imitate his perfect example of love, kindness and compassion, even as he imitated Jehovah?

Next time: Moved to Respond to Spiritual Needs

Watchtower,2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

Conclusion of He Expressed Belief in His Disciples

What does this revealing account teach us about the mind of Christ? Jesus had seen his apostles at their worst, yet he "loved them to the end." (John 13:1) Despite their shortcomings, he let them know that he believed in them. Notice that Jesus' confidence was not misplaced. The confidence and faith that he had expressed in them no doubt strengthened them to be resolved in their hearts to carry out the work he commanded them to do.

How can we demonstrate the mind of Christ in this regard? Do not be pessimistic about fellow believers. If you think the worst, your words and actions will likely reveal it. (Luke 6:45) However, the Bible tells us that love "believes all things." ( 1 Corinthians 13:7) Love is positive, not negative. It builds up rather than tears down. People respond more readily to love and encouragement than to intimidation. We can build up and encourage other by expressing confidence in hem. (1 Thessalonians 5:11) If, like Christ, we have a positive view of our brothers, we will treat them in ways that build them up and draw out the best in them.

Cultivating and demonstrating the mind of Christ goes deeper than just imitating certain things Jesus did. As mentioned in the preceding article, if we are truly to act like Jesus, we must first learn to view things as he did. The Gospels enable us to see another aspect of his personality, his thoughts and feelings about is assigned work, as the next article will discuss.

Next time: ARE YOU MOVED TO ACT AS JESUS WAS?

Watchtower, 2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

He Expressed Belief in His Disciples

Jesus demonstrated a positive view of his disciples in another important way. He let them know that he had confidence in them. This was clearly evident in the reassuring words he spoke to his apostles on the final night of his earthly life. Notice what happened.

It was a full evening for Jesus. He gave his apostles an object lesson in humility by washing their feet. Afterward, he instituted the evening meal that would be a memorial of his death. Then, the apostles became embroiled once again in a heated argument over which one of them seemed to be the greatest. Ever patient, Jesus did not berate them but reasoned with them. He told them what lay ahead: "All of you will be stumbled in connection with me on this night, for it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will will be scattered about.' " (Matthew 26:31; Zechariah 13:7 ) He knew that his closest companions would abandon him in his moment of need. still, he did not condemn them. Quite the contrary, he told them: "But after I have been raised up, I will go ahead of you into Galilee." (Matthew 26:32) Yes, he assured them that although they would abandon him, he would not abandon them. When this terrible ordeal had passed, he would meet them again.

Jesus kept his word. Later, in Galilee, the resurrected Jesus appeared to the 11 faithful apostles, who evidently had gathered with many others. (Matthew 28:16, 17; 1 Corinthians 15:6) There, Jesus gave them a weighty commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of people of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) The book of Acts give us clear evidence that the apostles followed through on that commission. They faithfully spearheaded the work of preaching the good news in the first century. -Acts 2:41, 42, 4:33; 5:27-32.

Next time: Conclusion of He Expressed Belief in His Disciples

Watchtower, 2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

Willing to Trust Others

Jesus had a balanced, realistic view of his disciples. He well knew that they were not perfect, after all, he could read human hearts. (John 2:24, 25) Even so, he saw them not simply in terms of their imperfection but in terms of their good qualities. He also saw the potential in these men whom Jehovah had drawn. (John 6:44) Jesus' positive view of his disciples was evident in the way he dealt with and treated them. For one thing he showed a willingness to trust them.

How did Jesus demonstrate that trust? When he left the earth, he delegated a heavy responsibility to his anointed disciples. He placed in their hands the responsibility of caring for the worldwide interests of his Kingdom. (Matthew 25:14, 15; Luke 12:42-44) During his ministry, he showed even in small, indirect ways that he trusted them. When he miraculously multiplied food to feed the crowds, he delegated to his disciples the responsibility of distributing the food. -Matthew 14:15-21; 15:32-37.

Consider too, the account recorded at Mark 4:35-41. On this occasion Jesus and his disciples boarded a boat and sailed east across the Sea of Galilee. Shortly after they shoved off, Jesus lay down in the back of the boat and fell fast asleep. Soon, however, "a great violent windstorm broke out." Such storms were not uncommon on the Sea of Galilee. Because of its low elevation (some 700 feet below sea level), the air is much warmer there than in the surrounding area, and this creates atmospheric disturbances. Added to this, strong winds rush down the Jordan Valley from Mount Hermon situated to the north. The calm of one moment may well yield to the raging storm of the next. Think about this: Jesus undoubtedly knew of the common storms, for he was raised in Galilee. Yet, he slept in peace, trusting in the skills of his disciples,some of whom were fishermen. -Matthew 4:18, 19.

Can we imitate Jesus' willingness to trust his disciples? Some find it difficult to delegate responsibilities to others. They must always be at the helm, so to speak. They may think, 'if I want something done right, I must do it myself!' But if we have to do everything ourselves, we are in danger of wearing ourselvs out and perhaps taking unnecessary time away from our family. Besides, if we do not delegate appropriate tasks and responsibilities to others, we may be depriving them of needed experience and training. It would be wise to learn to trust others, delegating matters to them. We do well to ask ourselves honestly 'Do I have the mind of Christ on this matter? Do I willingly delegate certain tasks to others, trusting them to do their best?'

Next time: He Expressed Belief in His Disciples

Watchtower, 2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

Considerate of Others

Jesus was considerate. He was sensitive to the feelings of others. The mere sight of the afflicted touched him so deeply that he was moved to relieve their suffering. (Matthew 14:14) He was also considerate of the limitations and needs of others. (John 16:12) Once, people brought him a blind man and begged Jesus to heal him. Jesus restored the man's sight, but he did so gradually. At first, the man saw individuals only indistinctly-"what seemed to be trees, but they are walking about." Then, Jesus restored his vision completely. Why did he heal the man gradually? This may well have been in order to enable one so used to being in darkness to adjust to the shock of suddenly seeing a sunlit and complex world. -Mark 8:22-26.

Consider also an incident that took place after the Passover of 32 C.E. Jesus and his disciples had entered the region of the Decapolis, east of the Sea of Galilee. There, great crowds soon found them and brought to Jesus many who were sick and disabled, and he cured them all. (Matthew 15:29, 30) Interestingly, Jesus singled out one man for special consideration. The Gospel writer Mark,the only one to record this incident, reports what happened. -Mark 7:31-35.

The man was deaf and hardly able to talk. Jesus may have sensed this man's particular nervousness or embarrassment. Jesus then did something a bit unusual. He took the man aside, away from the crowd, to a private place. Then Jesus used some signs to convey to the man what he was about to do. He "put his finger into the man's ears and, after spitting, he touched his tongue." (Mark 7:33) Next, Jesus looked up to heaven and uttered a prayerful sigh. These demonstrative actions would say to the man,'What I am about to do for you is due to the power from God.' Finally, Jesus said: "Be opened." (Mark 7:34) At that, the man's hearing was restored, and he was able to speak normally.

What consideration Jesus showed for others! He was sensitive to their feelings,and this sympathetic regard, in turn , moved him to act in ways that spared their feelings. As Christians, we do well to cultivate and demonstrate the mind of Christ in this regard. The Bible admonishes us: "All of you be like-minded, showing fellow feeling, having brotherly affection, tenderly compassionate, humble in mind." (1 Peter 3:8) This certainly calls for us to speak and act in ways that take the feelings of others into consideration.

In the congregation, we can show the consideration for the feelings of others by according them dignity, treating them as we would like to be treated. (Matthew 7:12) That would include being careful about what we say as well as how we say it. (Colossians 4:6) Remember that 'thoughtless words can stab like a sword.' (Proverbs 12:18) What about in the family? A husband and wife who truly love each other are sensitive to each other's feelings. (Ephesians 5:33) They avoid harsh words, unrelenting criticism, and bitter sarcasm-all of which can causes hurt feeling that are not easily healed. Children too have feelings, and loving parents take these feelings into consideration. When correction is needed, such parents give it in ways that respect the dignity of their children and spare them needless embarrassment. (Colossians 3:21) When we thus demonstrate consideration for others, we show that we have the mind of Christ.

Next time: Willing to Trust Others

Watchtower, 2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

Easy to Approach

People felt drawn to Jesus. On various occasions, Individuals of differing ages and backgrounds freely approached him. Consider the incident recorded at Mark 10:13-16) It took place near the end of his ministry as he was heading toward Jerusalem for the last time, to face an agonizing death. -Mark 10:32-34.

Picture the scene. People begin bringing children including infants, for Jesus to bless these. The disciples feel that Jesus surely does not want to be bothered with children during these crucial weeks. But they are wrong. When Jesus realizes what the disciples are doing, he is not pleased. Jesus calls the children to him saying: "Let the young children come to me; do not try to stop them." (Mark 10:14) Then he does something that reveals a truly tender and loving manner. The account says: "He took the children into his arms and began blessing them." (Mark 10:16) The children obviously are at ease with Jesus takes them into his caring arms.

That brief account tells us much about the kind of person Jesus was. Notice that he was approachable. Although he had occupied a lofty position in the heavens, he was neither intimidating nor demeaning to imperfect humans. (John 17:5) Is it not significant , too, that even children felt at ease with him? Surely they would not have felt drawn to a cold, joyless person who never smiled or laughed! People of all ages approached Jesus because they sensed that he was a warm, caring person, and they were confident that he would not turn them away.

Reflecting on this account, we can ask ourselves, 'Do I have the mind of Christ? Am I approachable?" In these critical time, God's sheep need approachable shepherds, men who are like "a hiding place from the wind." (Isaiah 32:1, 2; 2 Timothy 3:1) Elders, if you cultivate a sincere, heartfelt interest in your brothers and are willing to give of yourself in their behalf, they will sense your concern. they will see it in your facial expression, hear it in your tone of voice,and observe it in your kind manner. Such genuine warmth and concern can create a trusting atmosphere in which it is easier for others, including children, to approach you. One Christian woman explains why she was able to open up to a certain elder: "He spoke with me in a tender and compassionate manner. Otherwise, I would probably not have said a word. He made me feel safe."

Next time: Considerate of Others

Watchtower, 2000

DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"

"HE HAS never once been seen to laugh." That is how Jesus is described in a document falsely claiming to be written by an ancient Roman official. This document, which has been known in its present form since about the 11th century,is said to have influenced many artists. In a number of paintings, Jesus appears as a solemn-looking person who rarely, if ever, smiled. But that is hardly a fair depiction of Jesus, whom the Gospels portray as a warm kindhearted man of deep feelings.

Clearly, to know the real Jesus, we must fill our minds and hearts with an accurate understanding of the kind of person Jesus truly was while here on earth. Let us therefore examine some Gospel accounts that give us insight into "the mind of Christ."-that is,his feelings, his perceptions, his thoughts and his reasonings. ( 1 Corinthians 2:16) As we do, let us consider how we might cultivate "the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus had." (Romans 15:5) Thus, we may be better equipped in our lives and in our dealings with others to follow the pattern he set for us. -John 13:15.

Next time: Easy to Approach

Watchtower, 2000

GETTING TO KNOW " THE MIND OF CHRIST"

Conclusion of What Jesus Was Like as a Person

Jesus was a Master Teacher. Much of his teaching reflected the realities of everyday life, with which he was well acquainted. (Matthew 13:33; Luke 45:8) His manner of teaching was matchless-ever clear, simple, and practical. Even more significant is what he taught. His teachings reflected his heartfelt desire to acquaint his listeners with the thoughts, feelings, and ways of Jehovah. -John 17:6-8.

Often using illustrations, Jesus revealed his Father with vivid word pictures that could not be easily forgotten. It is one thing to talk in general terms about the mercy of God. It is quite another to liken Jehovah to a forgiving father who is so deeply moved at the sight of his returning son that he 'runs and falls upon his son's neck and tenderly kisses him.' (Luke 15:11-24) Rejecting a rigid culture in which religious leaders looked down on common people, Jesus explained that his Father was an approachable God who preferred the pleas of a humble tax collector to the showy prayer of a boastful Pharisee. (Luke 18:9-14) Jesus portrayed Jehovah as a caring God who knows when a tiny sparrow falls to the ground. "Have no fear," Jesus reassured his disciples,' "you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29,1) Understandably, people were astounded at Jesus' "way of teaching" and were drawn to hm. (Matthew 7:28, 29) Why, on one occasion "a big crowd" remained near him for three days, even going without food! -Mark 8:1, 2.

We can be thankful that Jehovah has revealed in his Word the mind of Christ! How, though, can we cultivate and demonstrate the mind of Christ in our dealings with others? This will be discussed in the next article.

Next time: DO YOU HAVE "THE MIND OF CHRIST"?

Watchtower, 2000

GETTING TO KNOW " THE MIND OF CHRIST"

What Jesus Was Like as a Person

The personality of Jesus that emerges from the Gospels is that of a man of tender warmth and deep feelings. He displayed a broad range of emotional responses: pity for a leper (Mark 1:40, 41); grief over an unresponsive people (Luke 19:41, 42); righteous indignation at greedy money changers ( John 2:13-17). A man of empathy, Jesus could be moved to tears, and he did not hide his emotions. When his dear friend Lazarus had died, the sight of Mary, Lazarus' sister, weeping touched Jesus so deeply that he gave way to tears himself, crying in full view of others. -John 11:32, 36.

Jesus' tender feelings were especially evident in the way he viewed and treated others. He reached out to the poor and oppressed, helping them to 'find refreshment for their souls.' (Matthew 11:4, 5, 28-30) He was not too busy to respond to the needs of the afflicted, whether a hemorrhaging woman who quietly touched his garment or a blind beggar who would not be silenced. (Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 10:46-52) Jesus looked for the good in others and commended them; yet, he was also willing to offer reproof when needed. (Matthew 16:23; John 1:47; 8:44) At a time when women enjoyed few rights, Jesus treated them with a balanced measure of dignity and respect. (John 4:9, 27) Understandably, a group of women willingly ministered to him from their own belongings. -Luke 8:3.

Jesus had a balanced view of life. Material things, were not of primary importance to him. Materially, it seems he had very little. He said that he had "nowhere to lay down his head." (Matthew 8:20) At the same time, Jesus added to the joy of others. When he attended a wedding feast-typically an event marked by music, singing and rejoicing-it is clear that he was not there to cast a pall over the occasion. Indeed, Jesus performed his first miracle there. When the wine ran out, he turned water into wine, a beverage that "makes the heart of mortal man rejoice." (Psalm 104:15; John 2:1-11) The festivities could thus continue, and the bride and groom were no doubt spared embarrassment. His balance is further reflected in that there are far more occasions mentioned when Jesus worked long and hard in his ministry. -John 4:34.

Next time: Continue with What Jesus Was Like as a Person

Watchtower, 2000

GETTING TO KNOW " THE MIND OF CHRIST"

Conclusion of Early Life and Influences

Jesus was raised by God-fearing parents who cared for him. His mother, Mary, was an outstanding woman. Recall that when greeting her, the angel Gabriel said: "Good day, highly favored one, Jehovah is with you." (Luke 1:28) Joseph too was a devout man. Each year he faithfully made the 90-mile journey to Jerusalem for the Passover. Mary also attended, even though only males were required to do so. (Exodus 23:17; Luke 2:41) On one such occasion, Joseph and Mary, after a diligent search, found 12-year old Jesus in the temple in the midst of the teachers. To his worried parents, Jesus said: "Did you not know that I must be in the house of my Father?" (Luke 2:49) "Father" -that word must have had a warm and positive connotation to young Jesus. For one thing, he evidently had been told that Jehovah was his real Father. In addition, Joseph must have been a good adoptive father to Jesus. Surely Jehovah would not have selected a harsh or cruel man to raise his dear Son!

During his last years in Nazareth, Jesus learned the carpentry trade, likely from his adoptive father, Joseph. Jesus so mastered the craft that he himself was called "the carpenter." (Mark 6:3) In Bible times, carpenters were employed in building houses, constructing furniture (including tables and making farming implements. In his Dialogue With Trypho, Justin Martyr, of the second century C.E., wrote of Jesus: "He was in the habit of working as a carpenter when among men, making ploughs and yokes." Such work was not easy, for the ancient carpenter probably could not buy his wood. More likely, he went out and selected a tree, swung his ax,and carried the wood home. So Jesus may have known the challengers of earning a living, dealing with customers and making ends meet.

As the oldest son, Jesus probably helped to care for the family, particularly since it appears that Joseph died before Jesus. Zion's Watchtower of January 1, 1900, said: "Tradition declares that Joseph died while Jesus was yet young, and that the latter took up the carpenter's trade and became the support of the family. this finds some support in the Scriptural testimony where Jesus himself is called a carpenter, and his mother and brethren are mentioned, but Joseph is ignored. (Mark 6:3) . . . It is quite probable,then,that the long periods of eighteen years of our Lord's life, from the time of the incident [recorded at Luke 2:41-49] to the time of his baptism, was spent in the performance of the ordinary duties of life." Mary and her children, including Jesus,likely knew the a pain that results when a beloved husband and father dies.

Clearly, Jesus was not born into a cushioned life. Rather, he experienced firsthand the life of ordinary people. Then, in 29 C.E., the time came for Jesus to carry out the divine assignment awaiting him. In the fall of that year, he was baptized in water and was begotten as a spiritual Son of God. 'The heavens were opened up to him,' evidently indicating that he could now recall his prehuman life in heaven, including the thoughts and feelings that went with it. (Luke 3:21, 22) So when Jesus embarked on his ministry, it was with knowledge, insight and depth of feeling that no other man could have had. With good reason, the Gospel writers devoted most of their writings to the events of Jesus' ministry. Even so, they could not record everything he said and did. (John 21:25) But what they were inspired to record enables us to peer into the mind of the greatest man who ever lived.

Next time: What Jesus Was Like as a Person

Watchtower, 2000

HEED THE WARNING!

Once You Have Fled, Stay Away

It is one things to flee from the endangered system, but it is quite another to remain in the protective care of "the whole association of brothers." (1 Peter 2:17) Let us not forget the farmers who, after being evacuated, went back to check their fields near Mount Fugen. Probably they were anxious to return to the "normal" life they used to have. But you realize that their decision to go back was unwise. Perhaps that was not their first attempt to crossing the line. They might have stayed a little longer, and still nothing happened. Likely, they soon became accustomed to crossing the protective line and were emboldened to linger in the endangered area.

Jesus Christ referred to a similar situation that would occur during "the conclusion of the system of things." He said: "As they were in those days before the flood, eating and drinking., men marrying and women being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark; and they took no note unto the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be." -Matthew 24:3,38, 39.

Notice that Jesus mentioned eating, drinking and getting married. None of those things are in themselves wrong in Jehovah's eyes. What was wrong then? The people of Noah's day "took no note," leading a life centered around their regular routine in a time of emergency, one cannot live a "normal" life.

Once you have fled from or have separated yourself from, the present doomed world, you must fight any urge to go back to take advantage of whatever can be gleaned from it. (1 Corinthians 7:31) You may be able to wander out of the spiritually safe zone and come back unscathed with no one even noticing it. However, that likely will embolden you and lead you to returning to the world again, lingering in it a bit longer. Soon the attitude could develop: "The end won't come today.

Also, think of the three cab drivers who lost their lives waiting for the news reporters and cameramen when the volcanic flow swirled down the slope. Some today may tag along with other who have dared to go back into the world. Whatever the reason, it is clear that being coaxed into returning to the perilous zone is not worth the risk.

All the victims of the eruption of Mount Fugen crossed the safety line and went into the danger zone. Though they expected that the mountain would erupt someday, no one thought that they would be on that day. By observing the sign of the conclusion of the system of things, many expect the day of Jehovah to come sometime but likely not soon. Some even feel that the day could never be "today." Such an attitude is indeed risky.

"Jehovah's day will come as a thief," the apostle Peter warned. We need to be alert, "awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah,: doing our utmost to be found finally by him spotless and unblemished and in peace." (2 Peter 3:10-14) After the destruction of the present wicked system of things, a paradise earth under the Kingdom of God awaits. May we never be tempted to venture into the danger zone for whatever reasons our mind might come up with, since the day we cross the line back into the world could be the day of Jehovah.

Take refuge along with Jehovah's people and stay with them.

Next time: GETTING TO KNOW "THE MIND OF CHRIST"

Watchtower, 2000

HEED THE WARNING!

Conclusion of Take Refuge Now

Many today hear the message about God's decision to destroy this wicked system of things and discern, to a certain extent,the validity of the warning. "It may eventually come,' they may reason, 'but not today,' they conveniently put off the day of Jehovah to a later time so that they may not be diverted from what seems more important in their eyes at the moment.

Baruch had such a problem. Being the secretary to the ancient prophet Jeremiah, Baruch courageously warned the Israelites of Jerusalem's impending doom. Yet, he once became weary of this commission. At that, Jehovah corrected him:"As for you, you keep seeking great things for yourself. Do not keep on seeking." Be wealth, prominence, or material security, Baruch was not to 'seek great things for himself.' He was to be interested in one thing, doing God's will to help people to stand on His side. As a result, he would receive 'his soul as a spoil.' (Jeremiah 45:1-5) Comparably, instead of 'seeking great things for ourselves,' we should seek Jehovah, which can lead to the saving of our own lives.

At Mount Fugen, over a dozen policemen and volunteer firemen were on duty when the superheated volcanic flow hit them. They were trying to help and protect endangered people. They were like well-meaning men and women who are immersed in improving this world. Lofty though their motives may be, "that which is made crooked cannot be made straight." (Ecclesiastes 1:15) The crooked system of things cannot be straightened out. Is it reasonable to make oneself "a friend of the world" by trying to save a worldwide system that God is determined to eliminate?

Next time: Once You Have Fled, Stay Away

Watchtower, 2000

HEED THE WARNING!

Take Refuge Now

To take refuge by seeking Jehovah, we have to be his friends. What does that involve? The Bible answers: "Do you not know that the friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever, therefore, wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God." (James 4:4) To be friends of God, we must rid ourselves of any emotional attachment to the present wicked world, characterized by a rebellious attitude toward God.

The Bible admonishes us: "Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; because everything in the world-the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life-does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world. Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever." (1 John 2:15-17) Most people today are motivated by fleshly desires-uncontrolled sexual appetite, greedy pursuit of money, and abusive use of power. But to be in Jehovah's side, one must overcome such desires. -Colossians 3:5-8.

You may have read this journal from time to time, and you might agree with its application of Bible prophecies. Yet, you may hesitate to take the further step of associating with Jehovah's Witnesses. If we are faced with a disaster, however, is it enough just to hear the warning? As we can see from the case of the Mount Fugen eruption, we need to act on the warning. Remember, at least 15 news reporters and cameramen intent on securing a scoop lost their lives. In fact, one photographer died with his finger on the shutter button of his camera. A volcanologist-who had remarked, "If one day I have to die, I want it to be at the edge of a volcano"-lost his life just as he had wished. They were all dedicated to their work and their pursuits. Yet, they paid with their lives-the price of ignoring the warning.

Next time: Continue with Take Refuge Now

Watchtower, 2000

HEED THE WARNING!

The Fear-Inspiring Day of Jehovah

What will happen when the tie is ripe for Jehovah to execute his judgment? Listen to his own graphic description of what will then take place: "I will give portents in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun itself will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah." -Joel2:30,31.

That day, more fearsome and destructive than any local volcanic eruption or earthquake, is imminent. The prophet Zephaniah says: "The great day of Jehovah is near. It is near and there is a hurrying of it very much. . .By the fire of his zeal the whole earth will be devoured, because he will make an extermination ,indeed a terrible one, of all the inhabitants of the earth." Although "neither their silver nor their gold will be able to deliver them in the day of Jehovah's fury," there is a way to survive that fear-inspiring day. -Zephaniah 1:14-18.

Showing how, Zephaniah says: "Before there comes upon you people the burning anger of Jehovah's anger, seek Jehovah, all you meek ones of the earth . . .Seek righteousness, seek meekness. Probably you may be concealed in the day of Jehovah's anger." (Zephaniah 2:2, 3) We can take refuge by 'seeking Jehovah , seeking righteousness, and meekness and seeking meekness.' Who today are seeking Jehovah?

You no doubt relate the word "Jehovah" to Jehovah's Witnesses because of their preaching work. You may have received this magazine from one of them. They are known as moral citizens who lead upright lives. They are endeavoring to put on a "new personality," which includes developing meekness. (Colossians 3:8-10) This, they admit, results from being educated by Jehovah's visible organization, throughout the earth represented by local congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses. Yes, you can take refuge along with 'the entire association of brothers' among Jehovah's Witnesses the world over. -1 Peter 5:9.

Next time: Take Refuge Now

Watchtower, 2000