Jesus' Family Who Were They?

IN MANY parts of the world, during December you often see scenes of the infant Jesus in the tender care of his mother, Mary, and his adoptive father Joseph.  Such family scenes may attract even those who do not profess to be Christians.  Since the focus is on Jesus, what do the Scriptures tell us about Jesus' human family?

Jesus had a most interesting family background.  He was born to a virgin named Mary, thus becoming  a member of the human family.  According to the Bible, his life was transferred from heaven to Mary's womb through holy spirit.  (Luke 1:30-35)  Before the miraculous conception of Jesus was announced, Mary had become engaged to a man named Joseph, who was thus to become Jesus' adoptive father.

After Jesus' birth, Joseph and Mary had other children, Jesus' half brothers and sisters.  That is evident from the question inhabitants of Nazareth later asked about Jesus:  "Is this not the carpenter's son?  Is not his mother called Mary, and his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?  And his sisers, are they not all with us?  (Matthew 1:25; 13:55, 56; Mark  6:3) We can conclude from this that Jesus' immediate family consisted of his parents, four brothers, and at least two sisters. 

However, some today do not believe that Jesus' brothers and sisters were children of Joseph and Mary.  Why?  "The Church," says the New Catholic Encyclopedia, "from its earliest days taught that Mary was always a virgin.  In  view of this, then, there can be no doubt that Mary did not have any other children."    The same reference work claims that the words "brother" and "sister" can refer to "some one or ones united in a religious or other common bond" or to relatives perhaps cousins.

Is that really the case? Even some Catholic theologians, disagreeing with the traditional doctrine, support the view that Jesus had fleshly brothers and sisters.  John P. Meier, former president of the Catholic Bible Association of America, wrote:  "In the N[ew] T[estiment] adelphos [brother], when used not merely figuratively or metaphorically but rather to designate some sort of physical or legal relationship, means only full or half-brother, and nothing else."  Yes, the Scriptures indicate that Jesus had brothers and sisters who were born to Joseph and Mary. 

The Gospels mention other relatives of Jesus, but let us now focus on Jesus' immediate family and see what we can learn from them.

Next time: Learning From Jesus' Human Family

The Watchtower, 2003

Doers of GOD'S WORD Find Happiness- Day Three- Be Doers of Jehovah's Word

Day Three-Be Doers of Jehovah's Word

The final day of the convention started with a discussion of the day's text.  Then came the symposium "Zephaniah's Meaningful Prophecy for Those Doing God's Will."  The three talks of this symposium showed that, as he did in the days of wayward Judah, Jehovah will bring distress upon those who now refuse to heed his warning.  Because they sin against God, they will walk about as helpless as blind men, unable to find deliverance.  True Christians, however, faithfully keep seeking Jehovah, and they will be concealed in the day of God's anger. Moreover, they enjoy many blessings even now.  They have the blessed opportunity to speak the "pure language" of Bible truth. (Zephaniah 3:9) The speaker noted:  "Speaking the pure language involves not only believing the truth and teaching it to others but also harmonizing our conduct with God's laws and principles."

Conventioneers eagerly awaited the drama "Warning Examples for Our Day."   This full costume drama showed how thousands of Israelites lost their lives at the border of the promised land because they forgot Jehovah and were seduced by pagan women into fornication and false worship.  One of the main characters -Jamin-was initially torn between the allure of the Moabite women and his devotion to Jehovah.  The false reasoning and deceptive things of ungodly Zimri came prominently to the fore, as did the faith and devotion of Phinehas.  The danger of becoming involved with those who do not love Jehovah was vividly portrayed .

The drama set the tone for the follow-up talk,  "Do Not Become Forgetful Hearers."  An analysis of 1 Corinthians 10:1-10 showed that Jehovah tests our obedience to determine our worthiness to receive an inheritance in the new world.  For some, fleshly desires  crowd out spiritual goals even now, close to our entry  into the new system.  All were encouraged not to forfeit the opportunity to 'enter into Jehovah's rest.' -Hebrews 4:1.

The public discourse was on the subject "Why Be Attentive to God's Wonderful Works."  Jeh0vah's "wonderful works" demonstrate his wisdom and his authority over the physical creation all around us.  (Job 37:14)  A number of searching questions from Jehovah were enough to impress Job with the power of the almighty Creator.  Jehovah will also do future  "wonderful works" in behalf of his faithful servants.  The speaker concluded:  "We have abundant reason to give attention to Jehovah's wonderful works-what he has done in the past, what he is doing around us in creation today, and what he promises to do in the near future."

Following a summary of the Watchtower study article for the week, the final talk of the convention was presented.  Entitled "Highly Esteem Your Privilege as a Doer of God's Word," this stirring discourse stressed that it is an honor to be doers of God's Word.  (James 1:22) The audience was reminded that our privilege as doers of God's Word is unique, and the longer we exercise it, the more highly we will esteem it. All in attendance were encouraged to reflect the beneficial stimulation of this district convention in their desire to be doers of God's Word to the fullest extent.  That is the only way to experience the greatest happiness possible.  

Next time:Jesus' Family  Who Were They?

The Watchtower, 2001

Conclusion of Day Two-Keep Telling About God's Wonderful Works

Next came the symposium "Word Hard at Cultivating Spirituality."  True Christians recognize the importance of developing and maintaining spirituality.  This involves hard work-reading, studying, and meditating.  (Matthew 7:13, 14; Luke 13:24) Spiritual people also carry on "every form of prayer and supplication."  (Ephesians 6:18) We realize that our prayers reveal the depth of our faith and devotion, the level of our spirituality, as well as what we view as "the more important tings."  (Philippians 1:10)  The importance of developing a warm, loving relationship with Jehovah like that enjoyed by an obedient child with a kind father was also stressed. We do not simply have a  religion-although it is the true one-but we want to build strong faith, 'as seeing God.' -Hebrews 11:6, 27.

The subject of spiritual progress was further discussed in the talk "Make Your Advancement Manifest."  Three areas of such advancement were considered:  (1) increasing in knowledge, understanding and wisdom.  (2) producing the fruitage of God's spirit, and (3) discharging our responsibilities as family members. 

At the close of the day's final talk, "Walking in the Progressive Light of God's Word,"  conventioneers were delighted to receive a new book, Isaiah's Prophecy-Light for All Mankind I. This is the first of two volumes treating the Bible book of Isaiah chapter by chapter.  "The book of Isaiah has a message for us today," noted the speaker.  He continued:  "Yes, many of its prophecies were fulfilled back in the days of Isaiah. . . .However, many of Isaiah's prophecies are undergoing fulfillment today, and some will be fulfilled in God's promised new world."

Next time: Doers of GOD'S WORD Find Happiness-Day Three-Be Doers of Jehovah's Word

The Watchtower, 2001

Doers of GOD'S WORD Find Happiness

Day Two-Keep Telling About God's Wonderful Works

After a consideration of the daily text, the second day of the convention continued with the symposium "Ministers of God's Word."  The first part drew attention to the present success of our global preaching work.  Our endurance in this work however, is challenged by the majority, who reject the Kingdom message.  A number of longtime publishers explained how they have maintained their joy in the ministry by  fortifying their mind and heart to meet the challenge of apathy of opposition.  The second part reminded the conventioneers that Jehovah's Witnesses strive to reach people everywhere, both formally and informally. And the last part described the broad spectrum of ways in which all Christians can expand their personal ministry. The speaker stressed that in order to do this, we should give God's Kingdom top priority, even if doing so involves inconvenience and self-denial. -Matthew 6:19-21. 

Since we live in an ungodly world saturated with an insatiable craving for material things, the talk "Cultivate Godly Devotion With Self-Sufficiency" was very timely.  Basing some of his comments on 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 18, 19, the speaker showed how godly devotion helps  Christians to avoid the love of money, which can lead them astray and cause many pains.  He stressed that whatever our economic situation , happiness depends on our relationship with Jehovah and on our spiritual well-being.  Many were deeply moved by the points presented in the talk "Giving God No Cause for Shame."  The fact that Jehovah never forgets his faithful Witnesses was emphasized.  The peerless example of Jesus Christ-who "is the same yesterday and today, and forever"-will help many to continue running the race for life with endurance. -Hebrews  13:8.

Closing the morning session was the baptism talk-always a highlight at large gatherings of Jehovah's Witnesses.  What a joy to see newly dedicated ones following in Jesus' footsteps by submitting to water baptism!  (Matthew 3:13-17)  All who take this step have already accomplished much as doers of God's word.  Moreover, when baptized they become ordained ministers of the good news deriving much joy from knowing that they are sharing in sanctifying Jehovah's name. -Proverbs 27:11.

Pointed counsel was given in the talk "Maturity Needed 'to Distinguish Both Right and Wrong.' " Worldly standards of right and wrong are woefully inadequate.  We therefore need to rely on Jehovah's standards.  (Romans 12:2) All were encouraged to work hard to gain an accurate understanding of God's ways and to grow to maturity.  Then, with practice our perceptive powers will be trained "to distinguish both right and wrong." - Hebrews 5:11-14. 

Next time: Conclusion of Day Two- Keep Telling About God's Wonderful Works

The Watchtower, 2001

Conclusion of Day One-Not Forgetting Jehovah's Doings

The afternoon session began with the talk "Do Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine," which reminded all in the audience that the pressures of this world confirm that the end is near.  (2 Timothy 3:1)  By not giving up, however, we can prove that we are "the sort that have faith to the preserving alive of the soul." -Hebrews 10:39.

What Bible counsel was offered regarding family life?  The first symposium of the convention-"Be Obedient to God's Word-began with the part "In Selecting a Marriage Mate."  Selection of a marriage mate is one of the most serious decisions people make.  Thus, Christians want to wait to get married until they are mature,  (though some never do)  and they are to marry "only in the Lord."  (1 Corinthians 7:39)  The next part of the symposium discussed Jehovah's desire that all Christian families succeed as strong spiritual units, and it offered practical ways in which this can be accomplished.  The final part reminded parents that teaching their children to love God begins with the parent's love for him.

The points presented in the talk "Beware of Rumors and Gossip" helped all to see that although amazing things do happen, we should react wisely not gullible, when we hear sensational reports.  Christians are better  off speaking about what they know to be true-the Kingdom good news.  Many found the next talk, "Coping With 'a Thorn in the Flesh,' " very comforting and uplifting.  It helped them see that despite the ongoing trials we may face, Jehovah can strengthen us by means of his holy spirit, his Word, and our Christian brotherhood.  Much encouragement was derived from the personal experience of the apostle Paul in this regard. =2 Corinthians 12:7-10; Philippians 4:11, 13.

The first day ended with  the talk "Keeping in Step with Jehovah's Organization."  Three areas in which God's organization has particularly moved ahead were considered: (1) the increasing comprehension of spiritual light from Jehovah, (2) the ministry that God has entrusted to us, and (3) the timely adjustments in organizational  procedures.  Then the speaker confidently stated:  "We are excited about the prospects ahead."  He asked: "Can there be any doubt that we have every reason to keep the confidence we had at first firm right down to the end?"  (Hebrews 3:14) The answer was obvious.  That led to the release of a new brochure entitled You Can Be God's Friend! It will serve as a powerful teaching aid to help individuals with limited education or reading ability to learn about Jehovah.

Next time Doers of GOD"S WORD Find Happiness- Day Two-Keep Telling About God's Wonderful Works

The Watchtower, 2001

Doers of GOD"S WORD Find Happiness

Day One-Not Forgetting Jehovah's Doings

In the opening talk, the chairman invited the audience to experience the blessings that come from unified worship of Jehovah at conventions.  All in attendance were assured that their faith would be increased and that their personal relationship with Jehovah would be strengthened.

"The happy God" knows what we need for our individual happiness.  ( 1 Timothy 1:11) Thus, the talk "Doing God's Will Brings Happiness" stressed that Jehovah's Word, the Bible, outlines the best way of living.  (John 13:`17)  A number of interviews with longtime Witnesses of Jehovah showed how doing God's will under varied circumstances adds meaning to our lives.  The next talk, "Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah," emphasized that, as "imitators of God," Christians want to produce "every sort of goodness" in their lives.  (Ephesians 5:1, 9) One outstanding way to do this is by preaching the good news and making disciples. -Psalms 145:7.

The discussion "Continue Steadfast as Seeing the One  Who Is Invisible" showed how strong faith helps us to "see" the invisible God. The speaker described how spiritual people are aware of God's qualities, including his ability to know even what we think.  (Proverbs 5:21) Those interviewed related the steps they have taken in order to develop stronger faith and put spiritual interests first in their lives. 

The morning session ended with the keynote address "Praise Jehovah-The Doer of Wonderful Things."  It helped the audience appreciate that the more we learn about Jehovah, the reasons we find to praise him as the Doer of wonderful things. The speaker said:  "As we contemplate God's marvelous works of creation along with all the wonderful things he is doing for us right now, heartfelt appreciation moves us to praise him. As we meditate on the miraculous things he has done in behalf of his people in times past, we want to praise him.  and as we contemplate the promises of wonderful things Jehovah will yet do, we also search for ways to express appreciation."

Next time:Conclusion of Day One-Not Forgetting Jehovah's Doings

The Watchtower, 2001

Doers of GOD'S WORD Find Happiness

"We recognize this convention as another of Jehovah's provisions to prepare for further Kingdom activity," said one of the speakers early in the "Doers of God's Word" District Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses.  He continued:  "We have prepared ourselves to be instructed about happy family life, to be encourages to stay close to Jehovah's organization, to be motivated  to maintain our zeal in Kingdom service, and to be reminded of the need to keep on the watch."

SINCE late May 2000, millions of doers of God's word and their friends flocked to the thousands of locations around the world to receive vital Bible education.  What did they learn during the three-day convention?

Next time:  Day One-Not Forgetting Jehovah's Doings

The Watchtower, 2001

Keep in Step!

Kingdom interests on the earth have been entrusted to "the faithful and discreet slave," which is represented by the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses.  (Matthew 24:45-47)  The Governing Body is primarily concerned with providing  spiritual instruction and direction for the Christian congregation.  (Acts 6:1-6) When fellow worshipers are affected by natural disasters, however, the Governing Body asks one or more legal entities to provide relief and to repair  or store  damaged homes and Kingdom Halls.  If certain Christians are dealt with harshly or are persecuted, steps are taken to build them up spiritually.  And "in troublesome season" every effort is made to keep the preaching work moving forward. -2 Timothy 4:1, 2.

No matter what comes upon his people, Jehovah constantly pr0vides spiritual food and needed direction.  God also gives discernment and insight to responsible brothers to prepare for further advancement and refinements in theocratic organization.  (Deuteronomy 34:9; Ephesians 1:16, 17)  Without fail,  Jehovah provides what we need in order to fulfill our disciple-making commission and to accomplish our ministry worldwide. -2 Timothy 4:5.

We have absolute confidence that Jehovah will never abandon his faithful people; he will deliver them through the coming "great tribulation."  (Revelation 7:9-14; Psalm 94:14;  2 Peter 2:9)  We have every reason to maintain the confidence we had at first firm right down to the end.  (Hebrews 3:14)  Let us, therefore, be determined to keep in step with Jehovah's organization.

Next time: Doers of GOD'S WORD Find Happiness

The Watchtower, 2001

Jesus' Active Leadership

Keeping in step with Jehovah's progressive organization requires that we recognize the God-assigned role of Jesus Christ as "head of the congregation."  (Ephesians 5:22,23) Noteworthy too, is Isaiah 55:4, where we are told:  "Look! As a witness to the national groups."  Jesus certainly know how to lead.  He also knows his sheep and their deeds. In fact, when he inspected the seven congregations in Asia Minor, five times he said: "I know your deeds."  (Revelation 2:2, 19; 3:1, 8, 15) Jesus also knows our needs, as does his Father, Jehovah.  Before giving the Model Prayer, Jesus stated: "God your Father knows what things you are needing before ever you ask him." -Matthew 6:8-13.

How is Jesus' leadership manifested?  One way is through Christian overseers, the "gifts in men."  (Ephesians 4:8) Revelation 1:6 depicts anointed overseers as being in Christ's right hand, under his control. Today, Jesus directs the arrangement for elders, whether such men have a heavenly or an earthly hope.  As explained int he preceding article, they are appointed by holy spirit in harmony with Scriptural requirements.  (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)  In the first century, a group of older men in Jerusalem made up a governing body that had oversight of the congregation and of the Kingdom-preaching activity in general.  the same pattern is followed within Jehovah's organization today.

Next time: Keep in Step!

The Watchtower, 2001

Moving Ahead With Organizational Refinements

A third way in which Jehovah's organization has moved ahead has to do with organizational refinements.  According to Isaiah 60:17, Jehovah promised:  "Instead of the copper I shall bring gold, and instead of the iron I shall bring in  silver, and instead of the wood, copper, and instead of the stones iron; and I will appoint peace as your overseers and righteousness as your task assigners."   In keeping with this prophecy, steps have been taken to improve the oversight of the Kingdom preaching work and the shepherding of the flock.

In 1919 a service director was appointed in each congregation that asked to be organized for field service.  This gave impetus to our ministry in the field.  the election of elders and deacons was terminated in 1932, marking our departure from democratic methods. Another milestone was reached in 1938 when all servants in the congregation began to be appointed more closely in line with the arrangements for theocratic appointment in the early Christian congregation.  (Acts 14:23; 1 Timothy 4:14)  In 1972 overseers and ministerial servants were appointed to serve, as such men did among the early Christians.  Instead of having  just one man serve as the overseer of the congregation, Philippians 1:1 and other Scriptures indicate that those meeting Scriptural requirements for overseers constitute a body of elders. -Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11, 12.

In 1975 an arrangement went into effect for committees of the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses to oversee the worldwide activities of God's organization.  Branch Committees were appointed to have oversight of the work in their respective territories.  Since then, attention has been given to simplifying the work of headquarters and at the branches of the Watch Tower Society so as to "make sure of the more important hings."  (Philippians 1:9, 10)  The responsibilities resting on the shoulders of Christ's undershepherds involve taking the lead in the evangelizing work, teaching in the congregation  and properly shepherding the flock of God. -1 Timothy 4:16; Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:2, 3.

Next time: Jesus' Active Leadership

The Watchtower, 2001