Continue with FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
"Disobedient to parents." (2 Timothy 3:2) Present-day parents, teachers and others have firsthand evidence that many children are disrespectful and disobedient. Some of theses youngsters are either reacting to or imitating their parents' misbehavior. Increasing numbers of children are losing faith in-and rebelling against-school,the law, religion and their parents. "As a trend," says one veteran schoolteacher, "they seem to have very little respect for anything." Happily, though, many God-fearing children are exemplary in behavior.
"Fierce." (2 Timothy 3:3) The Greek word translated "fierce" means 'untamed, wild, lacking human sympathy and feeling.' How well this fits many perpetrators of today's violence! "Life is so traumatic, so bloodied with horror that it takes a cast-iron stomach to read the daily news," said one editorial. A housing-p0licew sergeant noted that many youths seem to blind themselves to the consequences of their actions. He said: "There is a feeling that, 'I don't know about tomorrows. I'll get what I want today.' "
"Having no natural affection." (2 Timothy 3:3) This phrase is translated from A Greek word meaning "heartless, inhuman " and denoting a "lack of natural , family affection." (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology) Yes, affection is often missing in the very environment in which it should flourish-the home. Reports of abusive treament of marriage mates, children, and even of elderly parents have become disturbingly common. One research team commented: "Human violence-be it a slap or a shove, a knifing or a shoot-out-occurs more frequently within the family circle than anywhere else in our society."
"Having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power." ( 2 Timothy 3:5) The Bible has the power to change lives for the better. (Ephesians 4:22-24) Yet, many today use their religion as a screen behind which they carry on unrighteous activities that displease God. Lying, stealing, and sexual misconduct are often condoned by religious leaders. Many religions preach love but support warfare. "In the name of the Supreme Creator," observes and editorial in the magazine India Today, "human beings have perpetrated the most abominable atrocities against their fellow creatures." In fact,the two bloodiest conflicts of recent times-World War I and II -erupted in the heart of Christendom.
Next time: Continue with FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS!
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.31.2011
Chapter 11 -THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was a new scope of war,the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity, and scale exceeded anything previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. "The twentieth century," say professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and, finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain -more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted areas include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty, . . . they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to life them out of chronic malnutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in the Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion-half the world's population-suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his significant medical accomplishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be . . . lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society . . . and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well, declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
Next time: Continue with: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was a new scope of war,the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity, and scale exceeded anything previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. "The twentieth century," say professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and, finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain -more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted areas include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty, . . . they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to life them out of chronic malnutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in the Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion-half the world's population-suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his significant medical accomplishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be . . . lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society . . . and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well, declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
Next time: Continue with: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.30.2011
Chapter 11 -THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
HOW did our turbulent wold get to this point? Where are we heading? Have you ever asked such questions? Many feel somewhat lost when they look at the world scene. Realities such as warfare, disease and crime leave people wondering what the future holds. Government leaders offer little hope. However, a reliable explanation of these distressing days is available from God in his Word. The Bible reliably helps us to see where we are in the stream of time. It shows us that we are in "the last days" of the present system of things. -2 Timothy 3:1.
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: "What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger,knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in that "short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. True, most features of the sign of the last days involve distressing situation. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a close look at some of the principal features of the last days.
Next time: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: "What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger,knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in that "short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. True, most features of the sign of the last days involve distressing situation. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a close look at some of the principal features of the last days.
Next time: FEATURES OF THE LAST DAYS
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
KINGDOM RULE-WHEN
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord," King David said: "The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: "Sit at my right hand and I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.' " (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:34-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his acsension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrews 10:12, 13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (1 Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." -Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:16, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E.-Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed in the next chapter. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know this will happen soon?
Next time: Chapter 11-THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord," King David said: "The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: "Sit at my right hand and I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.' " (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:34-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his acsension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrews 10:12, 13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (1 Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." -Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:16, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E.-Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed in the next chapter. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know this will happen soon?
Next time: Chapter 11-THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS!
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.29.2011
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah gives us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the Law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (1 Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. -Luke 1:32, 33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19, 20; Revelation 21:14) Theses were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these prospective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go . . .and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." -Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe,in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "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." (Matthew 24:14 ) As one aspect of the Kingdom-preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this gives clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality!
Jehovah told the Israelites: "You are my witnesses, . . .even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the faithful witness," zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6, 7 calls its Ruler, Jesus the "Prince of Peace" and adds: 'To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments-here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. . . . It itself will stand to times indefinite."
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . .will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Next time: KINGDOM RULE-WHEN?
The book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah gives us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the Law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (1 Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. -Luke 1:32, 33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19, 20; Revelation 21:14) Theses were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these prospective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go . . .and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." -Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe,in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "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." (Matthew 24:14 ) As one aspect of the Kingdom-preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this gives clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality!
Jehovah told the Israelites: "You are my witnesses, . . .even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the faithful witness," zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6, 7 calls its Ruler, Jesus the "Prince of Peace" and adds: 'To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments-here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. . . . It itself will stand to times indefinite."
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . .will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Next time: KINGDOM RULE-WHEN?
The book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
As explained in Chapter 6, the first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. - Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus' words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James Version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The Kingdom of God is in your midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real, operating government having a ruler and subjects. It is a heavenly government, for is is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and "the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples,national groups and languages should all serve him." (AMEN! to that) (Daniel7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the Son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus doe not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1, 3; Luke 22:28, 30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
As explained in Chapter 6, the first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. - Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus' words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James Version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The Kingdom of God is in your midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real, operating government having a ruler and subjects. It is a heavenly government, for is is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and "the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples,national groups and languages should all serve him." (AMEN! to that) (Daniel7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the Son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus doe not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1, 3; Luke 22:28, 30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.28.2011
Chapter - 10 GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
PERHAPS you have had the experience of buying a piece of equipment, only to find that it did not work. Let us say that you called a repairman. Shortly after he "fixed" the device, however, it broke down. How disappointing that was!
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made - and then broken. Moreover, what governments has been able to eradicate poverty, prejudice, crime, disease and ecological ruin? Man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" -Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! a stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the Kingdom of God," and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:, 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when the repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart." Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made - and then broken. Moreover, what governments has been able to eradicate poverty, prejudice, crime, disease and ecological ruin? Man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" -Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! a stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the Kingdom of God," and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:, 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when the repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart." Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A KINGDOM WITH A PURPOSE
The Book -KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
A limited number of men and women will be resurrected to life in heaven. As kings and priests with Jesus, they will share in undoing all the effects of death that mankind inherited from the first man, Adam. (Romans 5:12; Revelation 5:9, 10) How many will God take to heaven to rule with Christ? According to the Bible, only 144,000. (Revelation 7:4; 14:1) Jehovah will give each of these resurrected ones a spirit body so that they can live in heaven. -1 Corinthians 15:35, 38, 42-45; 1 Peter 3:18.
By far the majority of those who have died will be resurrected to a paradise earth. (Psalm 37:11, 29; Matthew 6:10) Part of the reason for resurrecting some to heaven is to complete God's purpose for the earth. Jesus Christ and the 144,000 in heaven will progressively bring obedient mankind back to the perfection that our original parents threw away. This will include resurrected ones, as indicated by Jesus when he told the dying man impaled next to him: "You will be with me in Paradise." -Luke 23:42, 43.
On the Paradise earth, death, which today produces such futility, will be removed. (Romans 8:19-21) The prophet Isaiah declared that Jehovah God "will actually swallow up death forever." (Isaiah 25:8) The apostle John was given a vision of the time when obedient mankind will experience freedom from pain and death. Yes, "God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." -Revelation 21:1-4.
The Bible's clear teachings remove confusion about what happens to the dead. The Scriptures plainly state that death is "the last enemy" that will be destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:26) What strength and comfort we can draw from knowledge of the resurrection hope! And how glad we can be that our dead loved ones who are in God's memory will awaken from the sleep of death to enjoy all the good things he has in store for those who love him! (Psalm 145:16) Such blessings will be accomplished through God's Kingdom. But when was its rule to begin? Let us see.
Next time:GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
A limited number of men and women will be resurrected to life in heaven. As kings and priests with Jesus, they will share in undoing all the effects of death that mankind inherited from the first man, Adam. (Romans 5:12; Revelation 5:9, 10) How many will God take to heaven to rule with Christ? According to the Bible, only 144,000. (Revelation 7:4; 14:1) Jehovah will give each of these resurrected ones a spirit body so that they can live in heaven. -1 Corinthians 15:35, 38, 42-45; 1 Peter 3:18.
By far the majority of those who have died will be resurrected to a paradise earth. (Psalm 37:11, 29; Matthew 6:10) Part of the reason for resurrecting some to heaven is to complete God's purpose for the earth. Jesus Christ and the 144,000 in heaven will progressively bring obedient mankind back to the perfection that our original parents threw away. This will include resurrected ones, as indicated by Jesus when he told the dying man impaled next to him: "You will be with me in Paradise." -Luke 23:42, 43.
On the Paradise earth, death, which today produces such futility, will be removed. (Romans 8:19-21) The prophet Isaiah declared that Jehovah God "will actually swallow up death forever." (Isaiah 25:8) The apostle John was given a vision of the time when obedient mankind will experience freedom from pain and death. Yes, "God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." -Revelation 21:1-4.
The Bible's clear teachings remove confusion about what happens to the dead. The Scriptures plainly state that death is "the last enemy" that will be destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:26) What strength and comfort we can draw from knowledge of the resurrection hope! And how glad we can be that our dead loved ones who are in God's memory will awaken from the sleep of death to enjoy all the good things he has in store for those who love him! (Psalm 145:16) Such blessings will be accomplished through God's Kingdom. But when was its rule to begin? Let us see.
Next time:GOD'S KINGDOM RULES
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
10.27.2011
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The word that Jesus' disciples used for resurrection" literally means "raising up" or "standing up." This is a raising up from the lifeless condition of death-as it were, a standing up out of the common grave of mankind. Jehovah God can easily resurrect a person. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of life. Today, humans can record the voices and images of men and women on videotape and can replay these recordings after the individuals die. Surely, then, our almighty Creator can record the details of any individual and resurrect the same person, giving him or her a newly formed body.
Jesus Christ said: "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." (John 5:28, 29) All those in Jehovah's memory will be resurrected and instructed in his ways. For those who act in harmony with the knowledge of God, this will turn out to be a resurrection of life. However, it will turn out to be a resurrection of condemnatory of judgment for those who reject God's teachings and rulership.
Naturally, those who have pursued a righteous course as Jehovah's servants will be resurrected. In fact, the resurrection hope strengthened many to face death, even in violent cases of persecution. They knew that God could restore them to life. (Matthew 10:28) But millions of people have died without showing whether they would comply with God's righteous standards. They too will be resurrected. Confident in Jehovah's purpose in this regard,the apostle Paul said: "I have hope toward God . . .That there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." -Acts 24:15.
The apostle John received a thrilling vision of resurrected ones standing before God's throne. John then wrote: "The sea gave up those dead in it, and death and Hades gave up those dead in them, and they were judged individually according to their deeds. And death and Hades were hurled in to the lake of fire. This means the second death, the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:12-14) Think of that! All the dead who are in God's memory have the prospect of release from Hades (Greek, hai'des), or Sheol, mankind's common grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31) They will have an opportunity to demonstrate by their deed whether they will serve God. Then "death and Hades" will be hurled into what is called "the lake of fire," symbolizing complete destruction, as does the term "Gehenna." (Luke 12:5) The common grave of mankind itself will have been emptied and will cease to exist when the resurrection is completed. How comforting it is to learn from the Bible that God does not torture anyone! -Jeremiah 7:30, 31.
Next time: RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
The word that Jesus' disciples used for resurrection" literally means "raising up" or "standing up." This is a raising up from the lifeless condition of death-as it were, a standing up out of the common grave of mankind. Jehovah God can easily resurrect a person. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of life. Today, humans can record the voices and images of men and women on videotape and can replay these recordings after the individuals die. Surely, then, our almighty Creator can record the details of any individual and resurrect the same person, giving him or her a newly formed body.
Jesus Christ said: "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." (John 5:28, 29) All those in Jehovah's memory will be resurrected and instructed in his ways. For those who act in harmony with the knowledge of God, this will turn out to be a resurrection of life. However, it will turn out to be a resurrection of condemnatory of judgment for those who reject God's teachings and rulership.
Naturally, those who have pursued a righteous course as Jehovah's servants will be resurrected. In fact, the resurrection hope strengthened many to face death, even in violent cases of persecution. They knew that God could restore them to life. (Matthew 10:28) But millions of people have died without showing whether they would comply with God's righteous standards. They too will be resurrected. Confident in Jehovah's purpose in this regard,the apostle Paul said: "I have hope toward God . . .That there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." -Acts 24:15.
The apostle John received a thrilling vision of resurrected ones standing before God's throne. John then wrote: "The sea gave up those dead in it, and death and Hades gave up those dead in them, and they were judged individually according to their deeds. And death and Hades were hurled in to the lake of fire. This means the second death, the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:12-14) Think of that! All the dead who are in God's memory have the prospect of release from Hades (Greek, hai'des), or Sheol, mankind's common grave. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31) They will have an opportunity to demonstrate by their deed whether they will serve God. Then "death and Hades" will be hurled into what is called "the lake of fire," symbolizing complete destruction, as does the term "Gehenna." (Luke 12:5) The common grave of mankind itself will have been emptied and will cease to exist when the resurrection is completed. How comforting it is to learn from the Bible that God does not torture anyone! -Jeremiah 7:30, 31.
Next time: RESURRECTION TO WHERE?
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
Chapter 9 -WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR DEAD LOVED ONES?
"GONE TO REST"
It is Jehovah's purpose to rescue us and our dead loved ones from Adamic death. Therefore, God's Word refers to the dead as being asleep. For example, upon learning that his friend Lazarus had died, Jesus Christ told his disciples: "Lazarus our friend has gone to rest, but I am journeying there to awaken him from his sleep." Since the disciples did not immediately grasp the meaning of this statement, Jesus said plainly: "Lazarus has died." (John 11:11, 14) Jesus then went to the town of Bethany, where Lazarus' sisters Martha and Mary were mourning their brother's death. When Jesus told Martha, "Your brother will rise," she expressed her faith in God's purpose to reverse the effects of death on the human family. She said: 'i know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day." -John 11:23, 24.
Martha expressed no thought about an immortal soul living on elsewhere after death. She did not believe that Lazarus had already gone to some spirit realm to continue his existence. Martha had faith in the wonderful hope of a resurrection from the dead. She understood, not that an immortal soul had departed from the body of Lazarus, but that her dead brother had ceased to exist. The remedy would be the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus Christ is the one empowered by Jehovah God to redeem mankind. (Hosea 13:14) Hence, in response to Martha's statement, Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life. He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) Jesus demonstrated his God-given power in this regard when he went to the tomb of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, and restored him to life. (John 11:38:44) Just imagine the joy of those who saw this resurrection or others performed by Jesus Chris! -Mark 5:35-42; Luke 7:12-16.
Pause for a moment to consider this: Nobody would need to be resurrected, or brought back to life, if an immortal soul survived death. In fact, it would be no kindness to resurrect someone like Lazarus back to imperfect life on earth if he had already passed on to a wonderful heavenly reward. Actually, the Bible never uses the expression "immortal soul." Instead, the Scriptures say that the sinning human soul does die. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20) So the Bible points to the provision of a resurrection as the real remedy for death.
Next time: "ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
It is Jehovah's purpose to rescue us and our dead loved ones from Adamic death. Therefore, God's Word refers to the dead as being asleep. For example, upon learning that his friend Lazarus had died, Jesus Christ told his disciples: "Lazarus our friend has gone to rest, but I am journeying there to awaken him from his sleep." Since the disciples did not immediately grasp the meaning of this statement, Jesus said plainly: "Lazarus has died." (John 11:11, 14) Jesus then went to the town of Bethany, where Lazarus' sisters Martha and Mary were mourning their brother's death. When Jesus told Martha, "Your brother will rise," she expressed her faith in God's purpose to reverse the effects of death on the human family. She said: 'i know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day." -John 11:23, 24.
Martha expressed no thought about an immortal soul living on elsewhere after death. She did not believe that Lazarus had already gone to some spirit realm to continue his existence. Martha had faith in the wonderful hope of a resurrection from the dead. She understood, not that an immortal soul had departed from the body of Lazarus, but that her dead brother had ceased to exist. The remedy would be the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus Christ is the one empowered by Jehovah God to redeem mankind. (Hosea 13:14) Hence, in response to Martha's statement, Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life. He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life." (John 11:25) Jesus demonstrated his God-given power in this regard when he went to the tomb of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, and restored him to life. (John 11:38:44) Just imagine the joy of those who saw this resurrection or others performed by Jesus Chris! -Mark 5:35-42; Luke 7:12-16.
Pause for a moment to consider this: Nobody would need to be resurrected, or brought back to life, if an immortal soul survived death. In fact, it would be no kindness to resurrect someone like Lazarus back to imperfect life on earth if he had already passed on to a wonderful heavenly reward. Actually, the Bible never uses the expression "immortal soul." Instead, the Scriptures say that the sinning human soul does die. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20) So the Bible points to the provision of a resurrection as the real remedy for death.
Next time: "ALL THOSE IN THE MEMORIAL TOMBS"
The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995
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