February 8

Page Two

Some people feel that religion is making a comeback, pointing to the charismatic movement as evidence. Just what is it? How does it compare with first-century Christianity? Where is it heading?

Charismatic Renewal​—What Is It? 3

A Closer Look 4

Where Is It Headed? 7

A Different Spirit 9

Holy Spirit at Work Today 10

Charismatic Renewal​—What Is It?

THE assembled worshipers have their heads bowed as in prayer. All is calm. Then a faint sound of voices is heard​—a murmuring of prayers. Suddenly, loud voices fill the air. Arms, hands and faces are uplifted. Excitement charges the atmosphere!

At this point people cry out religious slogans such as “Praise the Lord!” and “Hallelujah!” Next, someone starts to speak in a “language” nobody understands. Tears flow. The participants seem to be ecstatic.

Was this a Pentecostal meeting? One would have thought so until a few years ago. But the scene described above could just as easily have been a meeting held in an Episcopal church, a Roman Catholic university stadium, or one held by a mixed group of Catholics and Protestants meeting anywhere.

Other generations have seen those claiming to have ‘gifts of divine favor’ (Greek, charismata). Thus, the older Pentecostal movement, with its “gifts” of “tongue-speaking” and “healing” is said to be charismatic. These gifts are thought to originate from God’s holy spirit.

The ‘New Charismatics’

In the 1960’s churches in general seemed to be in a state of spiritual paralysis. Membership sagged. Seminaries experienced disturbing shortages. But then, suddenly, came the ‘new charismatics.’ How did it happen?

In 1959, in an Episcopal church in California, several members started to speak in tongues. Later, an Episcopal priest in another church also did the same. When the priest was transferred to Washington State, tongue-speaking took place there. The idea spread to Protestant seminaries, colleges and churches across the United States. Then, in the latter half of the 1960’s, a group of Roman Catholics at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh began to speak in tongues. News of this spread, with the scene repeated at other Roman Catholic colleges and church parishes. Soon some of these groups from different religions began meeting together, speaking in tongues and healing.

The movement spread to other lands. The press reported on tens of thousands attending conventions of charismatics in large cities of the world. In 1980 one poll showed that about 29 million adult Americans thought of themselves as charismatic Christians.

What Does It Mean?

Many sincere persons view these events as proving that God’s holy spirit is at work in a charismatic renewal, helping religion to make a comeback. There can be no denying that something has happened to these people of many religious backgrounds. And they evidently wish to please God.

That being so, there ought to be a willingness to make a careful analysis of the movement to see what it really has accomplished. Is it producing evidences of God’s approval? Is this the way God is working in our time?

A Closer Look

HAS the holy spirit been at work in the charismatic movement? Charismatics must appreciate that each individual would want to be certain of that, especially since Christians are directed in God’s Word: “My dear friends, do not believe all who claim to have the Spirit, but test them to find out if the spirit they have comes from God.”​—1 John 4:1, Today’s English Version.

Of course, sincere charismatics feel that the things they experience testify to the holy spirit’s work among believers, reproducing what it did with Christians in the first century. On the other hand, those not involved would expect to see in the charismatic movement a repetition of other evidences of the work of the holy spirit in the first century as well.

Real Unity?

For example, what about the unity achieved? How real is it? The fact is that charismatics usually have continued to be members of whatever church they associated with before their experience. But, for observers, that raises serious questions.

To illustrate: Does a devout Pentecostal truly believe that a charismatic Presbyterian who smokes tobacco is really saved? Does a charismatic Baptist honestly believe that a previous Catholic or Episcopalian sprinkling now suddenly constitutes valid Christian baptism just because a person has become a charismatic? Will a Lutheran charismatic now genuinely agree with a charismatic Catholic that Roman Catholic priests actually do change bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ when celebrating Mass? The list of such differences could be extended much longer.

Should these divisive barriers make any difference? They surely did to first-century Christians. The apostle Paul wrote under inspiration of holy spirit: “Agree among yourselves, and avoid divisions; be firmly joined in unity of mind and thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10, The New English Bible) Obviously, disunity was not fitting for those true Christians. Holy spirit did not work that way back there. Rather, it unified Christians by overcoming previous differences. Theirs was a solid union of doctrine, practice and organization, not a loose unity based on a common emotional experience.

Some within the charismatic movement acknowledge the disunity. Christianity Today reported: “Some leaders said that the unity experienced by charismatics so far has been at the emotional level. Serious doctrinal differences do exist, and they have been passed over too easily, thus posing a threat to future unity efforts.”

Leadership Crisis

Some of the leaders in the charismatic renewal movement became quite well known. But, in time, their different backgrounds gave rise to different opinions as to how to direct matters. They became divided over direction and leadership.

Knowing the serious threat that such divisions were to charismatic renewal, concerned ones called for a sort of summit meeting of leaders. It was held at Dallas, Texas, in 1980. The speaker who opened the meeting said frankly: “We are here to admit the scandal of our division.”

But was there a healing? No. One faction advocated development by groups under an elder or a teacher who looks after his disciples. Opposers alleged that “the elders take unscriptural control of others’ lives, even to the point of usurping Christ’s authority.” One leader charged another with “sheep-stealing,” adding: “They are not discipling sinners to Christ; they’re discipling members of other churches to themselves.” Obviously, the divisions remain.​—Christianity Today, April 4, 1980.

The breakdown of unity must be tied to a real cause. That cause is traceable to the rejection of the authority of the Bible.

Rejecting the Book of Unity

If you are a charismatic, you may sincerely feel that charismatic leaders would never reject the Bible. But remember, one of the “gifts” claimed in the movement is that of prophecy. It is believed that the written word “must always be subservient to the authority of the living, ‘dynamic’ word” made known in prophesying, reports the book The New Charismatics. As one charismatic put it: “The Spirit as the living God moves through and beyond the records of past witness.”

However, the apostle Paul said: “Even if we or an angel out of heaven were to declare to you as good news something beyond [“at variance with” (NE)] what we declared to you as good news, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:8) Now, if an apostle or an angel should not go beyond the good news recorded in the Bible, is a charismatic personality today authorized to do so?

Author and charismatic Catherine Marshall says that “not all the truth and instruction Christ has to give us is contained in the canon of the Old and New Testaments.” But the Bible itself says: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17, TEV) Since this is the Bible’s role, why minimize its contents?

At first it might seem innocent enough that one puts one’s own personal experience ahead of the Bible itself. But do you realize what that could lead to? Recall that in Guyana the leader of the Jonestown group tragedy cast aside the Bible and impressed his followers with the need to listen to him and his ‘revelations from God.’ He had convinced them that they should trust their “experience” with him over God’s written Word. Do you see the danger that comes from such a position​—how vulnerable it makes a person? Without the Bible as a guide, what protection would there be against the influence of mass hysterics and crowd manipulation?

While a person is not to treat prophesying with contempt, he is also directed to “make sure of all things; hold fast to what is fine.” (1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21) Thus, the command at 1 John 4:1 to “test the spirits to see if they come from God.” (Moffatt) That same text advises: “Not all prophetic spirits, brethren, deserve your credence.” (Knox) Obviously, not all are from God. Some are from Satan the Devil.

Now, how does a person tell one spirit from another? One’s own experience is not sufficient to “make sure.” And, certainly, no present-day revelation by God’s spirit would contradict the revelations by that same spirit to Jesus, his disciples and the Bible writers.

Charismatics hope that their differences will eventually be resolved. But admitted one pastor: “The charismatic movement as a whole is doctrinally unpredictable.” The obvious reason for the continuing division is that many charismatics do not recognize the Bible as the final teaching authority. Thus, the substituting of personal experience will mean that genuine unity will never be achieved.

Thinking persons inside and outside the movement now ask: Does the charismatic movement really reflect God’s holy spirit in action? And where is the movement headed?

[Blurb on page 5]

At first it might seem innocent enough that a person puts his own personal experience ahead of the Bible itself. But do you realize what that could lead to?

[Blurb on page 6]

How does a person tell one spirit from another? One’s own experience is not sufficient to “make sure”

Where Is It Headed?

“WE SEE the renewal slowing down and/​or fragmenting,” observed a leader of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the United States in a report to that group. The report added: “In that fragmentation has come a dilution of God’s Word.”

The above report was quoted in the Australian renewal and evangelical magazine Vision (May-June 1980) in an article titled “What in the World’s Happening to the Renewal?” The author of that article, a charismatic himself, tells of giving a talk at a charismatic rally where he spoke about “the death of charismatic renewal.”

The chairman of the International Lutheran Charismatic Conference has analyzed the fragmentation and has listed “seven streams” that have developed in the United States alone. These include: groups centered around prominent leaders; Protestant and Catholic groups that are trying to contain renewal within their parishes; and so-called “health and wealth” groups that stress healing and financial success as evidence of God’s approval.

Thus, leaders and observers are concerned about a diminishing thrust, that “it won’t last forever,” as one charismatic said. (U.S. Catholic, Feb. 1980) Things seem to be headed for either a loss of enthusiasm or the establishing of new sects of charismatic Pentecostals rallying around different leaders.

The above sequence is not without foundation. The Encyclopædia Britannica says of the Pentecostals who appeared on the religious scene generations earlier: “They initially had no intention of withdrawing from their own churches to form another denomination. They merely wanted to be agents of reform and revival, helping to rid their churches of formalism in worship, modernism in belief, worldliness in practice and striving to transform them into vibrant, spirit-filled communities similar to those described in the New Testament book of Acts.” Yet, in time, a separate Pentecostal denomination was founded. Later numerous splits occurred. Today there are more than 30 kinds of Pentecostals.

The recent history of the ‘new charismatics’ bears a striking resemblance to that. But it is not really surprising when you analyze what sparked the modern movement.

What Really Happened

The stories often told would lead you to conclude that, all of a sudden, speaking in tongues and renewal broke out on their own​—a spontaneous work of the holy spirit. But in the original development among Protestants in California it is noteworthy that two Episcopalians in 1959 “received the baptism of the Holy Spirit through the witness of Pentecostal friends.” From them the “experience” was transmitted to about a dozen other members. Their own pastor contacted still others, spreading the “experience” among many Protestant churches.

Similarly, the Catholic development was not really spontaneous either. Even before the ‘Duquesne experience’ “there were individual Catholics who had received the Pentecostal experience​—often through the influence of Pentecostal friends,” says The New Charismatics.

What about the people involved at Duquesne, since this seemed to trigger the rapid spread of the experience among Catholics? In August of 1966 members of the faculty at the university had been introduced by friends to various publications that promoted Pentecostal thinking. “Eventually, the group decided to become personally acquainted with local Christians who had the Pentecostal experience,” says one writer. This meeting led to the “Duquesne weekend.”

What happened, then, is that earlier Pentecostal ideas and experiences penetrated some mainstream churches. Most recipients either were seeking a more “dynamic,” exciting, joyful way of worship or were influenced by those having had the experience.

However, since these efforts, the results now seen do not argue for a genuine, spontaneous renewal by holy spirit. What we have seen, instead, has been the introduction of beliefs and practices of one group to a number of others, with no one to guide the results or focus them on worthwhile goals.

“What About Our Experience?”

Despite the mounting evidence to the contrary, there are those who feel that they cannot conscientiously deny what they have experienced. Did they not feel the power within them? Did they not see or feel healing? Did they not burst forth with words in tongues unknown to them?

While that may be so, it is important to keep in mind that the Bible warns of deceptive, demonic spirits. (1 John 4:1) They are described as “working miracles,” even misleading mighty rulers. (Revelation 16:14, Authorized Version) They may use humans to produce powerful works, but the visible effects do not prove that they come from God. ‘Even if it was done in the name of the Lord Jesus?’ someone may ask. Jesus himself said: “Many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God’s message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!’ Then I will say to them, ‘I never knew you.’”​—Matthew 7:22, 23, Today’s English Version.

Even the previous Pentecostals worried about demonic influence. W. J. Seymour, prominent Pentecostal in the early 20th century, once urged his teacher to come to Los Angeles to help him because “hypnotic forces and fleshly contortions” had broken out at his meetings. He felt he needed help to “discern between that which was real and that which was false, and to weed out that which was not of God.”

On this matter of Satan masquerading as an angel of light in deceiving (2 Corinthians 11:14), a modern tongue-speaking Jesuit priest says: “Tongues could be a hysterical experience, or, according to some, a diabolical one.” And an Episcopal rector who speaks in tongues said: “The devil has many ways of working at us. When we come into the baptism of the Holy Spirit he really attacks.”

Also, consider this: If these special gifts such as tongues, healing and prophecy are so vital today, why did the apostle Paul write: “Are there prophets? their work will be over. Are there tongues of ecstasy? they will cease.” (1 Corinthians 13:8, The New English Bible) The evidence shows that with the passing away of the apostles and those whom they ‘laid their hands on,’ the holy spirit’s miraculous gifts passed away.​—Acts 8:17; 14:3.

Today, there is something far more important for Christians to display as an indication that God is working through them. It is something all of God’s servants must have. The Bible says: “There are three things that last for ever: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of them all is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NE) Since this is the case, one must look beyond things like tongue-speaking for sound evidences of the work of the holy spirit in our day.

Now, then, just what are the ways of identifying true Christians who are really displaying this all-important love? Can one see in them the fruits of God’s spirit at work, indicating that they are like the first-century Christians? Let us examine the evidence for that.

[Blurb on page 8]

The results now seen do not argue for a genuine, spontaneous renewal by holy spirit

A Different Spirit

THERE can be no doubt that in the first century God’s holy spirit was at work. One way in which it manifested itself was by providing some of God’s servants with powers that others did not have. The ability to ‘speak in tongues’ was one of these.

But while the individual was given the ability to talk in a language he had not known before, others of that language group could understand what he said. For instance, those who heard the speaking in tongues at Pentecost said: “How is it we are hearing, each one of us, his own language in which we were born? . . . We hear them speaking in our tongues about the magnificent things of God.”​—Acts 2:5-11.

When Christians met together, the apostle Paul said: “If someone speaks in a tongue, let it be limited to two or three at the most, and in turns; and let someone translate. But if there be no translator, let him keep silent in the congregation.” (1 Corinthians 14:27, 28) How different it is with today’s charismatics who speak all at once, and in sounds that no one can understand or interpret!

The ability to speak in tongues was one of the “gifts” of holy spirit given to first-century Christians to aid people in identifying the organization that God was using. And this particular “gift” also served the practical purpose of helping to preach the “good news” to other language groups.

Too, some of those who had holy spirit back then also had the power to raise the dead. (Acts 9:36-41; 20:7-12) If it is the same spirit at work today, then charismatics should also have that ability. But they do not. Hence, it is clear that the “spirit” responsible for seeming miraculous displays among charismatics is not the spirit from God manifest among first-century Christians.

Holy Spirit at Work Today

THE gifts of holy spirit that identified the first-century Christian congregation as God’s organization passed away. They are not needed to identify those through whom holy spirit is working today. What, then, are the identifying marks in our time? Examine some of them:

1. “HAVE LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER”

Genuine love is the most important charísma (gift) of the holy spirit today. (1 Corinthians 13:13) It is expressed in the genuine love for neighbor that a Christian must have. (Matthew 22:39) In this regard, Jesus declared: “If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13:35, Today’s English Version) Such love is not just a sticky, generalized love of all humanity. It is much more than emotional talk about love. It is accompanied by deeds that bring lasting benefits to others. It overcomes divisive boundaries of nationalism, race, politics and upbringing, so that, for example, those who have this gift in one country would never conceive of going to war and killing other Christians (or anyone else) in another land. Ask yourself, who today, throughout the world, displays such love?​—1 John 3:10-12; 4:20, 21.

2. “NO PART OF THE WORLD”

In order for his disciples to remain in union with the Father and the Son and united with one another, Jesus taught them to be no part of the world with its racial, national, political and social divisions. Their allegiance was to the kingdom of God. (John 15:19; Matthew 6:9, 10) The book From the Old World to the New states: “They preferred the Kingdom of God to any kingdom that they might serve on earth.” And History of Christianity notes that first-century Christians “refused to take any active part in . . . the military defence of the [Roman] empire.” Who today maintain such neutrality?

3. “MAKE DISCIPLES”

Christian love is not passive. “My children, our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love, which shows itself in action.” (1 John 3:18, TEV) Jesus taught his disciples to talk to others about God’s kingdom and to do evangelizing worldwide. (Matthew 10:7; 24:14; 28:19, 20) But according to Christianity Today, only one third of charismatics see the need for “winning the world for Christ.” But how many of even these actually go out and “make disciples” by calling on people in their homes? On the other hand, do you not agree that, internationally, Jehovah’s Witnesses are widely known for their witnessing work? A pastor of a Pentecostal church once said to a Witness: “It makes me cry when I think that we have God’s spirit, but you people are doing the work!”

4. “LOVE JEHOVAH”

True worship that God backs by his spirit means that Jehovah must come first in all things. (Exodus 20:5) Jesus said: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment.” (Matthew 22:37, 38) One way to do that is by making God’s name, Jehovah, known. Jesus did this, saying to God in prayer: “I have made your name known to them and will make it known.” (John 17:26) That is why Christians pray: “Our Father in heaven: May your holy name be honored.” (Matthew 6:9, TEV) Who today put Jehovah first in their lives and show it by their devotion to his Word, his laws, and by making his name known throughout the earth? With what international religious body is the name Jehovah associated?

Examining the “Gifts”

There is no doubt that God’s spirit is at work today. True Christians bear the identifying marks of that spirit. (Galatians 5:22, 23) And it is moving them powerfully to accomplish his purpose.

For example, one former charismatic had the “experience” of speaking in tongues, but still felt something was wrong. He was confused by the disunity of about 10 tongue-speaking groups that disagreed with one another, some accusing others of “being demon-inspired and condemned.” Could demons have invaded these groups and performed the powerful signs to mislead? Later, he encountered a spiritist who ‘talked with spirits’ in his home. “I told him the only spirit I wanted to know was the holy spirit, and he said he never heard of that one. Yet, what amazed me was that his spirits also gave prophecies and enabled him to perform miraculous healings.” He knew now the danger in these things.

He had ‘tested the spirits’ to see if they were from God. (1 John 4:1) He found that they were not. He realized that the lives, conduct, practices and beliefs of charismatics did not display the fruits of the spirit mentioned at Galatians 5:22, 23. On the other hand, he could see that Jehovah’s Witnesses lived as Christians, stating: “They had a love that transcended national boundaries. A big factor was that they were preaching the good news of God’s kingdom earth wide as prophesied at Matthew 24:14. To do such things took courage that only God’s spirit can give.” Yes, indeed, holy spirit is working mightily today among such Christians!

The Races​—What Is Their Origin?

ONE DAY a white schoolboy came home and said to his mother: “I have made a new friend at school. May I bring him home to play?”

“What color is he?” the mother inquired.

“I can’t remember. Tomorrow I’ll look and see.”

This true story illustrates that in a child’s mind there is only one race​—the human race. Indeed, that is one dictionary definition of the word “race.” However, obviously the human race is divided into many groups. Hence, another dictionary definition for race is “any geographical, national, or tribal ethnic grouping.”

Tension between peoples of different races is an earth-wide problem. Even societies who pride themselves on having racial equality are not exempt. Consider, for example, the race riots in England during 1981. In just one of those riots 149 police and 58 civilians were injured. Also, 120 buildings were damaged and 47 stores looted.

In view of such happenings, is racial unity, as often exists among children, an impossibility? And, where did the races originate?

Evolutionary Thinking and Race

In 1859 evolutionist Charles Darwin had his book The Origin of Species published. In it he taught that there was a competition between the different varieties of living things and that the best fitted to live in a given environment would survive and perpetuate their kind. The less fit forms would die out. Thus developed the saying, “the survival of the fittest.” In 1871 Darwin wrote a book entitled “The Descent of Man” in which he taught that men and apes descended from one common origin.

These books had a harmful effect on race relations. As anthropologist Sheila Patterson explained: “The theory of evolution replaced previous rationalizations justifying the domination of the white races. Since the latter had survived and been more successful than the other races, they must be superior to them, not only in organization and efficiency, but in every other field, including the mental and moral.” This attitude made European nations in the 19th century more determined to expand their colonies. It also helped inspire Hitler in his plan to develop a “master race” and eradicate the Jews and others considered unfit to live.

It is noteworthy, however, that both Darwin and most modern scientists agree that mankind has one common origin. As the Encyclopedia Americana states: “Mankind is a single biological species.” Science writer Amram Scheinfeld recently wrote: “Science now corroborates what most great religions have long been preaching: Human beings of all races are . . . descended from the same first man.”

So although the Bible was not written by scientists, yet it was correct in stating that “God . . . made out of one man every nation of men, to dwell upon the entire surface of the earth.”​—Acts 17:24, 26.

What Causes Variety in Races?

When the sperm cell from a man unites with the egg cell of a woman, a new human life is conceived even though the parents are of different races. Yet within that very small cell are thousands of genes, the transmitters of hereditary traits. These traits reflect characteristics seen in the parents or other ancestors.

The genetic makeup of the first man, Adam, was such that extensive variety could develop among his offspring​—in such things as skin color, hair color and texture, body size and facial characteristics. This variety was increased by language and geographical differences.

Concerning geographical isolation the Encyclopedia Americana explains: “When lands inhabited by two or more populations are separated by seas, mountain ranges, deserts, or other obstacles to travel, the members of these populations are perforce confined to their respective territories. . . . races will be separated by gene frequency gaps corresponding to the geographical boundaries. . . . this condition is approached in Africa, where the Sahara Desert forms a boundary between the European (white) and the African (Negro) races. The Sahara is very sparsely inhabited and difficult for man to traverse; it constitutes an isolating agent of long standing.”

Thus genetics, language and geographical barriers help to explain why distinctive racial groups appear in all parts of the earth.

Skin Color

According to the Bible, all humans descend from Noah, through his three sons Shem, Japheth and Ham. Genesis chapter 10 lists 70 descendants of Noah saying: “From these the nations were spread about in the earth.” (Genesis 10:32) One of the many ways in which these nations have been classified is with reference to skin color. In the skin of all normal humans is a blackish brown pigment called melanin.

Noah and his three sons all had a measure of this dark pigment. From Shem came the Babylonians, the Assyrians, the Jews and the Arabs who vary from fair to light-brown skin. The descendants of Japheth, who include the Indo-European races, vary from light skin to dark brown. As for Ham (meaning swarthy or sun-burnt), some, but not all, of his descendants had dark skin. The Egyptians, with light-brown skin, descended from Ham’s son Mizraim. Ham’s son Canaan, who was cursed by God because of bad conduct, was the forefather of the light-skinned Canaanites.

In agreement with this, Dr. Hughes, a professor of anthropology at the University of Toronto, said: “On every continent, and in every geographically defined race, there is a considerable range of variation in . . . skin pigmentation, . . . the Tamils of South India are considered by many anthropologists to be members of the Caucasoid [white Indo-European] major race, yet in skin pigmentation they are darker than many African Negroes.”

All of this shows how foolish it is to interpret God’s curse on Canaan as referring to a dark-skinned people. All divisions of mankind have a dark pigment in their skin, some to a lesser, others to a greater extent.

Are There Superior or Inferior Races?

Recently, in the U.S., a study was made involving black children adopted by 101 white families of above-average education. Psychology Today magazine reporting on this said that the black children, in I.Q. tests, “scored well above the national averages of both blacks and whites, especially if they were adopted early in life.”

Even so, by what standards is race superiority or inferiority to be measured? By the standards of Western civilization with its alarming increase of heart disease, cancer and other illnesses, with its shocking increase in sexual perversion and violence? Or by the standards of some of the so-called primitive tribes, like the Yamana, Chenchu or Congo pygmies? Consider how an expert, the late Professor Kern, described the typical member of these tribes:

“All his life he delights in the company of children, and he knows and loves even the smallest living creatures which inhabit his territory. . . . He is . . . tender and patient with invalids and old people . . . and he is contented with his life and work out of doors. . . . there is no civilisation in which existence is happier. Suicide is rarer here than anywhere else.”

In considering these few facts, we can appreciate the view of mankind’s Creator as to the different races. Under inspiration of God’s holy spirit the apostle Peter, himself a Jew, said: “I now realize that it is true that God treats everyone on the same basis. Whoever fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him, no matter what race he belongs to.”​—Acts 10:34, Today’s English Version.

Have the churches of Christendom always treated “everyone on the same basis”? Consider how the Catholic and Lutheran Churches supported Hitler’s scheme to produce a “master race.” And for centuries the Catholic Church taught that Negroes were a cursed race. John F. Maxwell states in his book Slavery and the Catholic Church that this view “apparently survived until 1873 when Pope Pius IX attached an indulgence to a prayer for the ‘wretched Ethiopians in Central Africa that almighty God may at length remove the curse of Cham [Ham] from their hearts.’” (Italics ours) And even to this day some church organizations openly practice racial discrimination.

Regardless of how politicians and religionists view the matter, the Bible and science indicate that all races are equal and descend from a common source. Interestingly, The Great Soviet Encyclopedia, 1970, Vol. 2, page 149, refers to the “scientific concept of the equality of the races” and admits the “scientific validation” of humanity’s single origin.

The Solution to Racial Problems

Because of applying Bible principles, Jehovah’s Witnesses, who include people of every race, are united in their worship. In addition to their regular weekly congregation meetings, they annually hold large conventions throughout the earth. Among these happy throngs, people of many races can be seen worshiping, eating and talking together. As Catholic writer William J. Whalen observed in the U.S. Catholic: “I believe that one of the most attractive characteristics of this cult has been its traditional policy of racial equality. Negroes who become Jehovah’s Witnesses know they will be welcomed as full human beings.”

However, although individuals have changed, mankind as a whole is suffering from increased racial violence and war. As to the solution, the director of the Institute of Race Relations in London, Phillip Mason, said the following: “The only secular hope for our future . . . lies in . . . a world government. . . . We ought to be looking forward to the day when national sovereignty will step by step be handed over to a world government.” This is exactly what Almighty God has purposed. However, the nations are too proud to ‘hand over’ sovereignty to God’s government, his heavenly kingdom. Instead, in the near future God’s kingdom will crush all human governments and bring harmony and peace to the earth to be enjoyed by the obedient ones of all races.​—Daniel 2:44; Psalm 37:29.

[Chart/​Picture on page 13]

The descendants of Noah’s sons all had a variety of skin color

HAM SHEM JAPHETH

[Picture on page 14]

‘Whoever fears God and does what is right is acceptable to him, no matter what race he belongs to’

[Picture on page 15]

Catholic writer William Whalen said: ‘One of the most attractive characteristics of Jehovah’s Witnesses has been their traditional policy of racial equality’

Young People Ask . . .

Why So Many Heartaches if God Cares?

“GOD did this to you to slow you down,” said the old man to 19-year-old Wallace, who had just been shot in the back and was now paralyzed from his chest down. Wallace found little comfort in the old man’s sincere remark.

Yet Wallace’s heartaches had only begun. At a rehabilitation school he was abused because of racial prejudice. “Why is there so much hatred in the world? Why so many crimes of violence? I was in the prime of my life, a star athlete! Why did I have to end up in a wheelchair?” pondered this young man. “Yes, why did God allow this?”

Perhaps you have asked similar questions. When you see the innocent suffer, you may ask: Why? Whose fault is it?

Suffering​—Who Is Really to Blame?

We can’t escape this fact: much suffering is man-made. For instance, in 1979, 11 young people were killed when a large crowd rushed to get into a rock concert, in a “frenzied stampede” for seats. But whose fault was it? God’s?

According to investigators, one of the chief reasons for the tragedy was the arrangement of “festival seating” whereby “the floor or the entire arena is left unreserved, and the best places are taken by those who get there first”​—or by those who are the strongest. That is why many youngsters like it. Yet some organizers reportedly favor this form of seating because it usually enables them to sell more tickets. So greed and selfishness​—either for a better viewing place or for more money—​contributed to the tragedy.

Today an estimated 400 million people “live constantly on the brink of starvation.” But is this because our earth will not produce enough food? That is not the problem, according to authorities; they blame uneven food distribution due to selfishness, greed or inefficiency. Human selfishness, not God, is also responsible for today’s wars, violent crime and industrial pollution.

“But God could stop it. He has the power. Why doesn’t he?” was the charge Wallace leveled at one of his black companions who was attending the same rehabilitation school. This young man had an answer.

Why Does God Permit It?

“The reasons for God’s permission of evil go back to the dawn of human history,” explained 17-year-old Willie. “According to the Bible, our original ancestors, Adam and Eve, were created in a paradise. They had perfectly healthy bodies, plenty of food and meaningful work. But they turned their backs on God’s care.”

“But why?” asked Wallace. “It was because of lying propaganda,” responded Willie. “Speaking through a serpent, an invisible spirit rebel, Satan, told Eve that God was a liar. ‘Obey me and you won’t die; in fact your life will be even better. You’ll be just like God.’ That was Satan’s subtle approach. You know what happened next? Adam and Eve lost their perfection and passed on sickness and death through their children to us today. This is why our world is in such a mess.” Then Willie drew attention to the basic reason why God has permitted wickedness.​—Genesis chaps. 2, 3; Romans 5:12.

The Big Issue

An issue was raised that was much more significant than whether God had the power to destroy them or not. In trying to explain, Willie asked: “You’ve heard people say, ‘Might makes right’ . . . ?”

“That’s a lie!” interrupted Wallace, as he reflected on his feeble position as a paralytic. “Just because you’re stronger doesn’t mean that what you do is always right.”

“Exactly!” continued Willie. “The issue, then, was not one of might but of whether God’s way of running things was right. Was it for the lasting good of people on earth? Or could people be happier by doing ‘their own thing,’ as it were, and disregarding God’s directions? Also, could Satan really bring about a world of lasting health and happiness? The answer required time.”

“But since it was God that had a point to prove, why should I have to suffer?” demanded Wallace. Willie had strong feelings about this, for he, too, was handicapped, with a leg he could not bend.

An Issue That Involves Us

“When Adam and Eve rebelled, a question was raised about the quality of God’s intelligent creatures,” replied Willie. “Though in time many of the offspring of Adam followed God’s laws, Satan sneered, ‘Why did they do it?’ Did they worship God merely for the material blessings he provided rather than out of love?” Realizing that Wallace was raising a small son, Willie asked: “If someone accused your son of obeying you just because of the material things you gave him, what do you think he would want to do?”​—Job 1:9, 10.

“He’d want to prove them wrong, because I know that my son loves me!” exclaimed Wallace. “Oh, I see your point. So God gave people a chance to show that they really loved him​—during good times or bad.”

Many faithful persons throughout history, such as the man Job of ancient times, have proved Satan’s accusation to be a lie. But what about his boast that life on earth would be better by ignoring God’s laws?

What Have the Results Proved?

Wallace could plainly see a world filled with hate. After becoming involved with several racial movements in an endeavor to correct injustices, he realized that these did not have the answer. He knew of nothing that could replace hatred with love.

Perhaps you, too, have seen the same hopeless predicament. Many young people realize that even modern technology, which 100 years ago seemed sure to bring about a beautiful tomorrow, has only brought mankind to within a hairbreadth of destruction. Isn’t it obvious that rule independent of God cannot bring a world of peace and happiness? But can God’s way of running things do so?

“I could see from my first visit that these people had really solved racial problems,” stated Wallace after attending a meeting at a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Accepting Willie’s invitation to ‘see for himself’ persons who were trying to live by God’s laws, he was deeply moved by the genuine warmth among those in the racially mixed congregation. “In this small town filled with racial prejudice, these people were an amazing example of love,” said Wallace. He wanted to learn more. Yes, here was evidence that God’s rule can produce genuine love.

God Still Cares!

But will God ever stop all this suffering? Yes, he will!

“I was overjoyed to realize that soon God is going to destroy those who are ‘ruining our earth’ and restore that earthly paradise,” Wallace stated later. (Revelation 11:18) How Wallace beamed to learn that God can completely erase all the damage caused by centuries of wickedness! He can raise to life again those who have died. He can change limbs rendered useless by injury or disease into those that can run and leap.​—2 Peter 3:7, 13; Acts 24:15; compare Isaiah 35:5, 6.

“I had no hope before,” said Wallace. “But now all the bitterness has left me. How comforted I am to realize that God did not cause me to become a cripple! I have faith that someday soon in that restored paradise I will get out of this wheelchair and walk again. This hope has given me peace of mind and I find that I can live with my present situation.” Yes, this young man found out that, despite a world filled with heartache, God does care!

Crossword Puzzle

Clues Across

1. Unintentional manslayers fled to them [3 words] (Numbers 35:6-29)

8. None could be paid for the deliberate murderer (Numbers 35:30-33)

10. Valiant, mighty chieftain of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:35, 40)

12. What we have brought into the world (1 Timothy 6:6-8)

13. We should be conscious of our spiritual ‐‐‐‐ (Matthew 5:3)

14. Represents power (2 Kings 17:36)

15. Family background appropriate for a king (Ecclesiastes 10:17)

18. His descendants served in the army of Tyre (Ezekiel 27:8-10)

19. This town drank the cup of Jehovah’s rage along with Dedan (Jeremiah 25:15-29)

20. One of Mary’s was fertilized miraculously

22. After the copper serpent was made, the Israelites camped here (Numbers 21:7-10)

23. Encountered (Matthew 8:28)

24. The queen of Sheba had not been told this much (1 Kings 10:4-9)

25. Not recommended for building something to last (1 Corinthians 3:10-15)

26. Last letter of Greek alphabet (Revelation 1:8)

28. The apostles gazed into it after Jesus ascended to heaven (Acts 1:6-11)

29. Abishai wanted to pin Saul to the earth this many times (1 Samuel 26:8)

31. 122 men from this town returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:27)

34. Imperial capital in Paul’s day (Acts 23:11)

36. Father of Jeremiah’s secretary Baruch (Jeremiah 36:4)

37. Where Ruth went to lay at the feet of Boaz (Ruth 3:1-4) [2 words]

Clues Down

1. Study of time

2. Christians should have this type of affection for one another (Romans 12:10)

3. Zebulunite who judged Israel for 10 years (Judges 12:11, 12)

4. Jonah spent three days in one (Jonah 2:1)

5. This city was part of one of Solomon’s commissariat districts (1 Kings 4:7-9)

6. His son Bezalel was a noted craftsman (Exodus 31:2-5)

7. His sons were Cush, Mizraim, Put and Canaan (Genesis 10:6)

9. While sitting here, Jesus prophesied about the conclusion of this system of things (Matthew 24:3-14) [3 words]

11. Moses’ older sister (Numbers 12:1)

16. What King Asa did to the idolatrous “sacred pillars” (2 Chronicles 14:2, 3)

17. Jonah’s hometown (2 Kings 14:25)

21. Protected Jeremiah (Jeremiah 26:24)

27. Plant used for blue dye (see Aid to Bible Understanding, p. 472)

30. Noah built it (Genesis 6:13-16)

32. Maternal grandfather of Jesus Christ (Luke 3:23)

33. Not worth gaining the world if you lose this (Luke 9:25)

35. Peter cut one off (John 18:10, 11)

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS PAGE 23

Answers Across

1. CITIES OF REFUGE

8. RANSOM

10. IMNA

12. NOTHING

13. NEED

14. ARM

15. NOBLE

18. PUT

19. TEMA

20. OVA

22. OBOTH

23. MET

24. HALF

25. HAY

26. OMEGA

28. SKY

29. ONCE

31. MICHMAS

34. ROME

36. NERIAH

37. THRESHING FLOOR

Answers Down

1. CHRONOLOGY

2. TENDER

3. ELON

4. FISH

5. ELONBETHHANAN

6. URI

7. HAM

9. MOUNT OF OLIVES

11. MIRIAM

16. BROKE

17. GATHHEPHER

21. AHIKAM

27. INDIGO

30. ARK

32. HELI

33. SELF

35. EAR

“Five Days to Live”

Lessons Learned from Tragedy

IT WAS on a Saturday afternoon that Wilson Rojas, a heavy-equipment operator in a Central American country, and his helper entered a mobile storeroom to put away equipment for the day. Wilson was looking forward to returning home to his wife, Clarissa, and their three-year-old daughter, Iriabeth.

But, for reasons yet unknown, at that moment some 200 detonators, 100 sticks of dynamite, 50 liters (10 gallons) of gasoline and three acetylene gas tanks exploded in a chain reaction. Wilson’s helper was killed instantly. Wilson was blown through the storeroom wall and landed, unconscious, some eight meters (26 feet) away.

Thus began a trying ordeal for the Rojas family. Wilson and Clarissa tell us what happened.

Clarissa: About 3:30 that afternoon my mother-in-law came by. She had already heard about the explosion and feared the worst but tried not to frighten me too much. Immediately I called the hospital, but all they could do was confirm the explosion.

Finally, about 4:00 p.m., a friend called from the hospital with the shocking news: “Wilson is critically injured. Right at this moment they’re trying to save his life. If he lives, they may have to amputate his right arm and his left leg.”

When I was finally allowed to see Wilson, I found him hovering between life and death. Whole pieces of flesh had been ripped off in the explosion and what was left was badly burned. Inhaled acetylene gas had charred his mouth, throat and lungs. The half of his body exposed to the explosion was perforated by hundreds of metal fragments. His face was unrecognizable. The medical staff gave me no reason to hope that he would live.

Wilson: From the moment the storeroom door closed, I don’t remember anything until I awoke in the hospital eight days later. I sank deep into despair when I learned just how serious my condition was. I’d lost the use of one eye, one ear, one arm and one leg. I couldn’t eat, and conversation was possible only through a hoarse whisper and with great effort. I was being kept alive by intravenous feeding.

Shortly after I regained consciousness, a nurse stopped beside my bed and routinely began to set up equipment for a blood transfusion. When I explained to her that I could not accept such treatment, she called the doctor in charge of my case. At first he tried to persuade me, saying: “The only way to save your life is by means of a blood transfusion. Your blood level is extremely low.”

I was anxious to explain to him why I could not accept blood as a form of medical treatment. Many Bible texts came to my mind, such as Acts 15:28, 29, which show that Christians abstain from blood.

“I’m not interested in your beliefs or in your way of thinking,” the doctor said. Growing angrier with every word, he continued: “Neither am I interested in your fanaticism nor in your foolish ideas. Don’t try to talk to me anymore because it won’t convince me. I’m interested in saving your life. If you refuse a blood transfusion, then I suspend my treatment. I quit your case. Besides, I’m reporting you to the hospital administration, which means that no other doctor will accept your case either.”

As he turned to go, I strained so that I could be heard, “But doctor, wait a minute. I’ve heard of a special treatment using iron substances that build up the blood. Another doctor recommended it to me. Wouldn’t that help me?”

“Here we do what we doctors say, not what the patient says,” he replied. “Anyway, you only have five more days to live. What do I care if you don’t want to be saved? If you want to die a fanatic, that’s your business!” With that, he turned and walked away.

Clarissa: Wilson’s case was so critical that he had been transferred to one of the larger and better-equipped hospitals in the capital. His burns had begun to heal slowly; he was conscious now and had managed to survive eight days since the accident. So I thought there might be hope. However, shortly after I entered the ward on the eighth day, a nurse called me aside. Three doctors and the head nurse wished to talk to me.

“Mrs. Rojas, we have a problem. Your husband is in urgent need of a blood transfusion, since he has lost much blood. His red blood cell count is extremely low. However, he has refused to accept blood. Of course, we know that, as a dying man, he probably doesn’t realize what he’s saying. So we would like you to authorize a blood transfusion.”

A cold chill swept over me, but I was able to answer immediately. “I can’t authorize a treatment that my husband won’t permit, because I respect his position. Our position is not based on blind fanaticism, but, rather, on a study of the Bible.”

But the doctor in charge of the case pounded the table with a clenched fist and declared: “It’s useless to discuss this any further. Let him die, if that’s what you both want. He didn’t die in the explosion, but he’ll die anyway of blood loss. He has five days to live, no more.” After that, he left the room. The other doctor looked at me and said: “The only reason we’re not sending your husband home is that he’s human rubbish, too critical to move.”

As I walked out of the room I felt humiliated. But what saddened me most of all was not being permitted to explain why, as Jehovah’s Witnesses, we are so firm in our resolution to avoid the use of blood in medical treatment. Furthermore, not one mention of an alternate treatment was made, nor was I allowed even to suggest any. It all seemed so hopeless. There was nothing to do but wait for Wilson to die, within five days.

After my signing the form freeing the hospital from all responsibility in Wilson’s case, all treatment aside from routine bandage changing was suspended. He was moved to a far-off corner bed. When he understood what had happened, he called me close so that I could hear him. In a voice barely audible, he told me: “I’m not interested in saving my life for this system of things. It’s hard to think of leaving you and Iriabeth alone, but we have the resurrection hope and we’ll see each other in the New Order.” We both prayed in silence.

Wilson: Everyone seemed to know that I was the patient who would not accept blood and who was given only five days to live.

I remember very well one young nurse who spent over an hour trying to convince me that all of them had my best interests at heart. She said: “With just a little blood you can save yourself. If you want, I can come back around midnight with the transfusion when all the rest are asleep. No one will ever know you’ve taken blood. What do you say? Shall I bring it?”

“You’re wasting your time because I’m not going to accept.”

“Well, you think about it very carefully, because you’re going to die right here. I’ll be back tomorrow.”

The next day two friendly doctors stopped by my bed in a seemingly casual way. After talking about things in general, they asked me about my beliefs in regard to blood transfusion. Although I could scarcely talk, I managed to outline for them God’s view of blood.

“The best thing you can do is to forget those foolish ideas,” they replied. “Blood will give you life. Look, our motto is ‘Give life,’ and we guarantee that the blood we’ll give you will do you no harm.”

Even more difficult was the emotional appeal made by Eduardo, the patient in the next bed. As the third of the five days slipped by, Eduardo implored, “You have only two days left and I can see that you really are going to die!”

“God has given us the resurrection hope, Eduardo. If I have to die to uphold God’s principles, I’ll be proud to do so.”

Perhaps the most difficult times for me were the long, painful and sleepless nights. In a way the intense pain helped me. I hurt so much that I couldn’t concentrate on morbid thoughts of death or self-pity. Alone, and faced with the fact that no one really thought I would live, I learned to rely on Jehovah God as never before. My prayers became longer, virtual “conversations” with God. I felt closer and closer to him each day. This, and this alone, was what sustained me emotionally, spiritually and even physically.

Clarissa: That dreaded fifth day came and went, with Wilson feeling a bit better than before. Since all hospital treatment had been suspended, my family and I had begun our own. We nourished him with high-protein foods and administered the blood-building treatment a doctor had previously recommended to Wilson. Slowly, very slowly, then more rapidly, he began to improve. It soon became obvious to all that Wilson simply wasn’t going to die!

Soon a new doctor took over his case. He ordered a blood test. On seeing the results, he immediately ordered a second one. He said there must have been some mistake in the laboratory. Nevertheless, the second test showed the same results. The doctor was amazed at how much Wilson’s blood count had improved. He said: “Of course, his life-style​—no bad habits or harmful tensions—​helps to explain such a rapid recovery, but only partially. I really have no full explanation.”

Wilson: Although my rapid recovery impressed everyone, a sudden change darkened the picture. My damaged left leg began to pain me terribly. Upon removing the cast, it was found that gangrene had set in due to a blood clot in the knee. A specialist was brought in. After examining me, he concluded that the clot had been there for some time, no doubt due to the accident. He said that at any moment it could break free and end my life in a matter of seconds. However, there was a chance that the clot could be dissolved with drugs. If not, my leg would have to be amputated.

The drug treatment dissolved the clot, and once again I was out of danger. One day the specialist came to my bed and sat down. He remarked about my rapid recovery from the burns and infections, and now from the blood clot. He asked, out of curiosity I thought, just why I had not accepted a blood transfusion weeks before. I explained why and I can still vividly recall his words: “The reason that blood clot didn’t break free and kill you was the low blood volume and the thinness of the blood. Had you accepted a transfusion, you would probably be dead right now. My congratulations.”

Later on, when I told my wife what the specialist had said, we wept and thanked Jehovah together. It convinced us that obedience to God is always the best course. In my case, it literally saved my life!

Three months after the accident, I was able to leave the hospital. Months of therapy and out-patient treatment awaited me, but the worst had passed.

My recovery continued to defy all predictions. I was never supposed to be able to leave a wheelchair. But I thought that at least I might be able to walk with crutches.

Clarissa: He just wouldn’t give up. I can’t remember how many times I had to help him up off the floor. But finally he could get around all right on crutches. Still he wasn’t satisfied. He wanted to use only a cane. Well, after more falls, he accomplished that, too. I remember that one Witness wanted to give him a beautiful, hardwood cane, but Wilson declined the offer. He said that soon he wouldn’t need it. To everyone’s surprise, he didn’t! It’s been more than three years now since the accident. Wilson can do so much more than anyone ever expected.

Wilson: As soon as I could get around a bit, I returned to visit my friends in the hospital ward. Most of them were still there and were very happy for my recovery. As I was walking down the corridor, I passed the doctor who had predicted that I would live only five days. “Hello, doctor,” I said.

“Do I know you?” he asked, with a puzzled look on his face.

“I’m the patient that had only five days to live.”

His face couldn’t conceal his surprise. “Oh, you really look well. Ahem, uh, you seem to have gained a lot of weight. And, uh, it’s really nice that you’ve recovered so quickly.” Then he hurried off.

Many other doctors, nurses and attendants recognized me. They all seemed glad to see me. I’m sure that all of them, even those who tried to convince me to take blood, were interested in seeing me live. They themselves were under pressure, too.

It’s one thing to read experiences about those who refuse blood transfusions in the face of death. But it’s another thing really to live such an experience. When you’re told you have five days to live, and you think of your family waiting for you at home, the consequences of the decision become very clear. How grateful Clarissa and I were for having studied the Bible well and deepened our knowledge of God beforehand. And how we learned to appreciate our Christian brothers! Their visits were so encouraging. Most of all, we learned to appreciate the gift of prayer. We don’t cease thanking Jehovah for having given us the strength to endure when we needed it most.​—Contributed.

[Blurb on page 21]

“I’m not interested in your beliefs or in your way of thinking,” the doctor said

[Blurb on page 22]

“I hurt so much that I couldn’t concentrate on morbid thoughts of death or self-pity”

[Blurb on page 22]

“I learned to rely on Jehovah God as never before”

[Blurb on page 23]

“It soon became obvious to all that Wilson simply wasn’t going to die!”

[Blurb on page 23]

The specialist said: “Had you accepted a transfusion, you would probably be dead right now. My congratulations”

[Blurb on page 24]

“How grateful Clarissa and I were for having studied the Bible well and deepened our knowledge of God beforehand”

[Picture on page 22]

“You only have five more days to live,” said the doctor

What’s in a Name?

By “Awake!” correspondent in Zimbabwe

THEY did not have any children for many years of their marriage. So when a son was finally born to them, they named him “Takunda,” meaning “we have conquered.” Yes, they had “conquered” their childlessness. Here in Zimbabwe names often have meaning and purpose behind them.

The first man on earth was called Adam, which means “earthling man” or “mankind.” Since then every person has had a name and nearly all of these have had meanings. Today many given, or first names, come from Hebrew, Greek, Latin or Teutonic languages. (Anglo-Saxon is closely related to the Teutonic tongue.)

In early times great significance was attached to the meaning of names. For example, let us take the Bible character Ruth. Her name probably means “friendship.” This young Moabitess, the daughter-in-law of Naomi, lost her husband in death. When Naomi decided to go back to her home in Bethlehem, in the territory of Judah, Ruth was determined to go with her. To Naomi’s insistence that she remain with her own people, Ruth answered: “Do not plead with me to abandon you, to turn back from accompanying you; for where you go I shall go . . . Your people will be my people, and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16) How well Ruth lived up to the meaning of her name!

While at the birth of a child, the parents or some close relative would impose a name on it, years later this name was often changed, or an additional one was given that would more vividly describe some characteristic of the individual. For example, no longer viewing her name to be appropriate in view of the calamities that had befallen her, Naomi said: “Do not call me Naomi [my pleasantness]. Call me Mara [bitter].”​—Ruth 1:20.

Sometimes God himself changed the names of persons for a specific purpose. For instance, when Abram (meaning “father of exaltation”) was 99 years old, God changed his name to Abraham, meaning “father of a multitude,” and reaffirmed His promise that his offspring would become many.​—Genesis 17:1-6.

Use of Surnames

As could be expected, with the increase in population came the increased problem of identifying persons with the same name. Thus developed the use of surnames. These were also known as nicknames (although not all nicknames are surnames). According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, surnames can be divided into five different classifications: (1) The description of a person’s appearance; (2) the record of an incident or exploit in one’s life; (3) to identify him by his connection with some other person, usually his father; (4) to give his residence; (5) to show his occupation.

Were such names practical? Well, consider a situation where many in a community had the name “John.” How were they to be distinguished from one another? One “John” might have been very tall while another one was very short. What better way to distinguish them than “Big John” and “Little John”? Another “John” might have been a carpenter. What was he called? Perhaps “John the Carpenter.”

Family Names

Many of these surnames became fixed, resulting in family names. Actually, it is believed that family names were first used by the Chinese. The Romans also used a sort of family name, but this faded out with the decline of the Roman Empire, and single names once again became customary.

Not until about 1200 C.E. did family names become common again. The continued increase in population and the need for specific records were among the reasons for this. Gradually surnames became family names. Little John, for example, became John Little; Henry, Son of Robert, became Henry Robertson; John at the Wood became John Atwood, and so on.

These family names, however, were not hereditary at first. Henry Robertson’s son, Charles, for example, did not automatically become Charles Robertson. Rather, he was more likely identified by one of the five classifications mentioned above. If he developed skill in woodwork, he may have become known as Charles Carver.

At first it was only the nobility who passed on family names as a sort of family pride. Gradually, however, the practice became more and more popular, as common people adopted the custom. By the later Middle Ages this practice became widespread in many countries, especially in the Western world, and it is used freely in most countries today.

Names Today

Here in Zimbabwe the conventional family name is used by those of European extraction, but many of the indigenous peoples use other methods. For instance, in many parts of the country, if the name of the father is James Mufunga, his son, David, will be known as David James, not David Mufunga. Unmarried women, in some instances, will be known by their father’s first name until they get married. After that they are known by their husband’s first name. You can imagine the problems this creates in record keeping!

Another interesting practice in this country is one similar to that of the ancient Hebrews, that is, using names to fit events, circumstances, feelings, and so forth. During one of the “Victorious Faith” conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1978, the wife of a full-time minister gave birth to twins, a boy and a girl. Without hesitation, the happy parents called the son “Victor” and the daughter “Faith.”

Reputation and Office

When your name is mentioned, what image of you comes up in the mind of the hearer? Well, that really depends upon what you are as a person, doesn’t it? This brings us to another use of the word “name”​—one’s reputation. “A [good] name is to be chosen rather than abundant riches,” says Proverbs 22:1. Obviously this is talking about a person’s standing or reputation. If a person has a “good name” in the community, he is looked upon as being upright and honest, with good moral standards. While you were not able to select the name you were given at birth, it is really up to you how that name will be received by others.

A name might also have to do with the office, or authority, of an individual. Government representatives are often referred to as speaking “in the name of” their government, meaning “by the authority of” their government. Similarly, when Jesus Christ said that we were to use his name to pray to God, he meant more than just using the name “Jesus” as if he were some sort of switchboard operator relaying requests to God. (John 14:13, 14) Rather, we need to recognize his office, his authority as God’s representative and High Priest. Thus, when praying in his name, we are asking that his authority be exercised in our behalf, making our prayers acceptable to God.

The Greatest Name of All

The psalmist writes: “You, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth.” (Psalm 83:18) Yes, Jehovah is the name of the Sovereign Ruler of the universe. It is exclusive and does not rightfully belong to anyone else. According to the root of the name in Hebrew, it is understood to mean “He Causes to Become.” It calls attention to the fact that he unfailingly fulfills what he promises and that he is in complete control of whatever situation may arise.

Likely you love and respect your name. But how do you feel about God’s name? “For God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name.” (Hebrews 6:10) Do you love God’s name? It is not simply a matter of knowing he has a name. We need also to know the Person represented by the name​—his purposes, activities and qualities. And that knowledge should be reflected in every aspect of our lives. Would you like to get to know God’s name in this sense? Jehovah’s Witnesses will gladly assist you.

[Picture on page 27]

Do you know what the greatest name in the universe is?

From Our Readers

The Electronic Church

I also find many faults with the Electric Church. But you are distorting the message of the Electronic Church horribly. I doubt if one, a single one, has ever offered salvation in return for a “monthly check.” Your reporting is distorted and not responsible​—it is not a good Witness! God’s salvation for us is given to us by Him alone. We cannot buy it with a monthly check. And we can’t earn it by self-denial or torture (although I do believe we are called not only as Witnesses but also to deny ourselves). For by Grace we are saved and this is only through faith. Salvation is a gift of God (not because of works) as Eph. 2:8, 9 clearly instruct us.

G. N., Illinois

We did not distort the facts. We presented the facts and then endeavored to probe beneath the surface to get the real meaning of what is taking place. We did not say that various Electronic preachers actually come right out and offer salvation in return for a monthly check. But we believe this is, in effect, what is taking place with many. We do not state that one can earn salvation by self-denial or by taking up the torture stake, but Jesus did say such was included if we were to follow him. And the disciple James wrote clearly that faith without works was dead.​—Luke 9:23; James 2:17, 26.​—ED.

Criticism of Homosexuals

I must take exception to statements made in “Watching the World” under the heading “High Price to Pay.” Your conclusion is nothing short of ridiculous. The medical studies do not suggest that people get these diseases by merely being homosexuals, but that they likely get them from being promiscuous. You seemed to have overlooked the fact that many gay people have built stable relationships. Of course, this positive side of gay life would not fit in with your slanted outlook on life in general. It certainly does nothing to promote love and understanding among mankind if you spend all your time pointing out the bad things that other religions or groups of people do. Why not try to find a common ground we can all relate to and work together on? True enlightenment includes both sides of an issue, not just the facts that support your own brand of theology!

Anonymous

We agree that heterosexual promiscuity spreads venereal diseases and exposes the participants to emotional disorders as does homosexual promiscuity. But the medical reports referred to specifically mention diseases related to homosexual activity, not merely “homosexual promiscuity.” The Bible consistently condemns all homosexual relationships. (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:24, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) And the growing evidence supports the position that such activities expose one to physical disease and emotional disorders. In pointing out what is bad, we try to encourage all men to turn to doing what is right and good, for their own benefit. We cannot find a common ground with those who want to practice what is unrighteous and unclean in God’s sight. We cannot find a common ground with works of darkness. As the apostle Paul wrote at 2 Corinthians 6:14: “What fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with darkness?”​—ED.

Watching the World

Do Prisons Reform?

● How effective are prisons as a “correctional” institution? Judging by reports from Britain’s Home Office, the situation is dismal. The reports show that 75 percent of male prisoners under 21 years of age are reconvicted of serious crimes within two years of release from prison. The corresponding figure for adult males is 50 percent and for females, 40 percent. Meanwhile, prison population in Britain is reaching crisis proportions​—45,500 last July. “The conditions in our prisons are such that those who work there​—let alone those in custody—​cannot be expected to tolerate them,” said Home Secretary Whitelaw. And the Daily Telegraph adds: “It would be hypocrisy to pretend that constructive standards of custodial or even human decency could be maintained under such pressures.”

Human Sacrifice Still?

● A grisly report about haunted fields and missing small boys has come from a remote village in India. In Khubala, population 800, a landowner and a self-styled sorcerer were arrested for murdering a four-year-old boy in a ritual to purge the landowner’s fields of a violent spirit that supposedly had been causing workers to fall ill. The sorcerer admitted to abducting and strangling the boy, cutting off his hands and feet, collecting his blood in an earthen vessel, and sprinkling it all over the field. The police feared that the same thing might have happened to four other boys reported missing in the area.

Cheating in Marriage

● “Take any public opinion poll and 95 per cent of the people say extramarital relationships are always wrong,” says Seton Hall University sociologist Lynn Atwater. But, she continues, “at least 50 per cent of them are doing it.” Her study, based on interviews of hundreds of women throughout the U.S., shows that extramarital affairs are increasing the fastest among young wives under age 24. According to the researcher, chief among reasons given for such immoral affairs is “opportunity for communication, intimacy and getting to know the other person.” However, the study also shows that none of the women who cheat on their husbands want to terminate their marriage. “It’s much easier to construct a new short-term relationship than it is to try to change long-standing marriage patterns,” she explains.

U.N.’s Newest Member

● By a 144-to-1 vote, Belize, formerly British Honduras, was admitted as the 156th member of the United Nations after it became independent last September. The one opposing vote was cast by the new nation’s next-door neighbor, Guatemala, which claims rights to the tiny territory. Although there is said to be no immediate threat of invasion, Belize has requested the British to leave behind 1,600 troops.

Flourishing Plant Research

● Genetic engineers in new laboratories mushrooming across the U.S. are hard at work to develop new breeds of crops in hopes of filling the gap in food production for the world’s booming population. Ideas being worked on include crops that make their own fertilizers and pesticides, and plants that grow in salty soil or with scanty water supply. So far, scientists have come up with tomatoes that grow in seawater, maize that thrives in the desert, and rice with about 10 percent higher protein content. Business forecasters visualize a $100-billion yearly market. And large corporations, hoping to reap a share of the cash, are now investing their funds in this latest venture, plant research.

Dangerous Dumps

● The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a $1.3-billion program to clean up the nation’s 400 worst toxic or poisonous chemical dump sites. So far the agency has listed 114 sites that are considered highly dangerous to public health to be given “the highest priority.” Typical among them is one where chemical leakage is so serious that the city’s underground drinking-water supply is contaminated. Other potential dangers include one site with 17,000 rusting barrels of toxic wastes and another with 30,000 gallons of a dangerous chemical simply spilled along roadsides. Most of those listed are commercial or privately owned sites. But it is estimated that $5.5 million of taxpayers’ money will be spent to clean up each dump.

Bibles for China

● One million Chinese-language Bibles were recently smuggled into the People’s Republic of China. The religious cloak-and-dagger operation, called Project Pearl, was sponsored by an Evangelical group named Open Door, with headquarters in the Netherlands, and financed with $6 million raised in the U.S., Canada and elsewhere. According to Time magazine, the project was “to bring badly needed copies of the Scriptures to 5 million Chinese Protestants, who worship . . . in an estimated 50,000 ‘house churches’” that were formed after the Cultural Revolution of the 1960’s closed regular church buildings. However, official Chinese church leaders condemned the operation, saying that smuggling “arouses minds to opium and drugs,” and that “it discredits religion.” Bishop K. H. Tang, president of the China Christian Council, said that getting Bibles into China legally is not a problem, and added: “We are printing our own Bibles in an attempt to make Christians.”

A Dog’s Life

● In these days when many people are having difficulty making ends meet, a dog’s life seems to be better than ever, according to the Toronto Star. They eat well​—sale of high-priced gourmet and health pet food rose 10 percent last year, while sale of the more economical cans dropped 10 percent. They are pampered​—their grooming aids include mouthwash, cologne, toenail polish, shampoo and spot cleaner. They dress well​—in trench coats, pile snowsuits, velvet, leather and even mink coats. And they end up well​—with coffins and tombstones in special cemeteries. In all of this it seems that price is no object, and store shelves are not stocked fast enough. “I think people are panicking. They think if they don’t buy it right now it will be gone,” said the owner of a specialty store. Evidently inflation has not yet gone to the dogs.

Feline Navigation

● Last year the Briscoe family in Australia were on vacation when all of a sudden their cat Timmy jumped from an open auto window and disappeared in the thick bush. Family members searched for hours but failed to find their pet, so upon returning home they bought a new cat. But then, seven months later, Timmy the cat arrived home, his paws a little sore after walking 264 miles (425 km). How cats navigate is not entirely clear.

Hot-Water Victims

● More people get burned by contact with hot liquids than by any other cause, according to a report in The Journal of the American Medical Association. Each year, in the U.S., 112,000 people are admitted to hospital emergency wards for scald burns, and 2,600 of them are burned by plain hot tap water. The study finds children and older folks most frequent among victims of hot-water burns and such burns are usually “more extensive and more severe” than other types of scalding. “Almost all of these injuries could have been prevented by lowering the temperature of the household water heater to below 54.4° C (130° F.) and preferably between 48.9 and 51.7° C (120 to 125° F.),” says the report. No household chores really need water any hotter.

Golden Gate’s Tarnish

● The beautiful and world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco has a more sinister side to its fame. The bridge, 220 feet (67 m) high, appears to be a favorite spot for suicides. Highway Patrol records show that since its opening in 1937 a total of 708 persons have jumped from the bridge, 720 others were stopped just before they could get over the fence, and there were 285 other cases in which only notes and abandoned vehicles were found. Among those who jumped, only 12 survived the 75 miles per hour (120 km/​h) impact. In 1971 a proposal to erect a higher fence was turned down for aesthetic reasons. Hence, it is left to highway patrol officers to be on the lookout for persons who linger too long and do not appear to be admiring the scenery.

Eat Your Porridge

● What the British call porridge and Americans call oatmeal doctors now call “miracle.” At Kentucky University’s College of Medicine, Dr. James Anderson has found that oats contain a gummy material, a complex carbohydrate, which can lower the level of blood sugar and fats and reduce blood cholesterol by a third​—just what patients with diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure need. “This is the first time anyone has demonstrated that a particular food can lower blood cholesterol,” says the doctor. Anderson’s experiments indicate that beans also contain similar carbohydrates, but oats work better. After 10 years of research on diabetics, the doctor recommends a diet high in starchy carbohydrates but low in sugar (soluble carbohydrates).

Polar Temperature Rising

● Scientists at Columbia University said they have found evidence that earth’s polar surface temperature is rising. By comparing recent satellite photographs of the South Pole with old atlases and whaling-ship records, they concluded that the average area of the summer ice pack has decreased 35 percent from 1973 to 1980, according to the New York Times. Studies of surface temperature at the North Pole also revealed a 0.9 degree centigrade (1.6° F.) rise over previous peaks. The theory is that this is due to the greenhouse effect of accumulated carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. This effect would be most pronounced at the poles where it is relatively free from other types of pollution. The trend, if continued, could lead to flooding worldwide, said the scientists, because more of the polar ice would melt each summer.

Radiation to Preserve Food?

● The high cost of energy has led food processors to look to radiation as a means for preserving food instead of by freezing and canning. Actually the idea has been tossed about since the 1950’s. It is claimed that a dose of gamma rays far below that necessary to produce any radioactivity in the food can kill all the bacteria in it with a minimum change in flavor or texture. This reportedly can be done at 20 to 30 percent the cost of canning. An added advantage is that irradiated food can be stored in foil pouches at room temperature, thus eliminating the high cost of refrigeration in shipping and exporting foods. Japan and some European countries have already approved the method and it is expected that irradiated food will appear on the U.S. market within a few years, if the government approves.

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Depression

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Overindulgence

Anger

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