The Watchtower — January 1, 1981

Page Two

OUR COVER: In this heartless world, many aging parents are deserving of much more care than they receive. The article starting on the opposite page shows how true Christians may give practical, loving help

Caring for Your Aged Parents​—How?

“YOUR mother is becoming an invalid now,” the doctor said, “and so I think we should see if there is a vacancy for her in a rest home.”

The daughter responded with a start. So did her mother, but in a different way​—painfully. The specter of a great, dreary house loomed before her, and she already saw herself sitting among unhappy old people. But the cheerful voice of her daughter brought her back to reality.

“Don’t worry, Mother. I’ll have a talk with Jan about having you come to live with us.”

Her mother shook her head. “Oh, no, dear child. You already have so much to do with your family, and . . .”

The daughter later wrote: “Her mouth said ‘No,’ but her eyes pleaded: ‘Please don’t leave me alone; take me with you.’”

Yet there are some very good homes for the aged. Would it not have been better for the mother to go into one of them? For now the daughter, in addition to the care of her immediate family, would have her mother to look after. Would she really fit in with her daughter’s family?

Undoubtedly, many such questions arise. And as the numbers of older ones increase, more families face these questions. Does the Bible give any guidance on the matter?

THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS

When Jesus Christ was hanging on the stake, despite his great pain, he had the situation of his aging mother on his mind. Evidently Mary was then a widow and, Jesus, faced with death, conscientiously was thinking of her care after he was gone. His fleshly half brothers had not as yet exercised faith in him; they were not his disciples. So Jesus committed the care of his mother Mary to John, his most intimate disciple. The Bible says of the situation there at the torture stake:

“Therefore Jesus, seeing his mother and the disciple whom he loved [John] standing by, said to his mother: ‘Woman, see! your son!’ Next he said to the disciple: ‘See! Your mother!’ And from that hour on the disciple took her to his own home.”​—John 19:26, 27.

It is God’s will that parents enjoy great consideration, even as his law says. Thus Jesus was acting in keeping with the fifth of the Ten Commandments given to Israel, which says: “Honor your father and your mother in order that your days may prove long upon the ground that Jehovah your God is giving you.” So showing gratitude to one’s parents will be richly rewarded by Jehovah.​—Ex. 20:12.

A GOOD ARRANGEMENT WATERED DOWN

However, as with so many other laws, the Fifth Commandment gradually fell into disrepute. Selfishly, many Jews began neglecting their parents, forgetting how lovingly they had cared for them. Later on, their religious leaders even dared to introduce the notion that the care of parents could be ignored, provided that religious duties were fulfilled. Jesus strongly opposed this error. He said that anyone who set aside God’s commandments in such a way was worshiping God in vain.​—Mark 7:6-13.

Jesus’ disciples understood very well God’s requirement to care for needy parents, and even grandparents. The apostle Paul wrote: “But if a widow has children or grandchildren, then they should learn as their first duty to show loyalty to the family and to repay what they owe to their parents and grandparents; for this God approves.” (1 Tim. 5:4, The New English Bible) Did you notice the first duty of children? It is to repay their parents, and even grandparents, for the care they received when they were young. Yes, God approves of children’s taking care of their parents and grandparents who can no longer care for themselves.

In the world today there is little ‘honoring of father and mother.’ Rather, the attitude often is: “Let each man look after himself; I have enough trouble of my own.” The results of this hard mentality are plain to see: Millions of older people having a horrible “evening” of their life because hardly anyone cares about them.

NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY

Sometimes a person becomes as helpless at the end of his life as he was at the beginning. This becomes a liability in old age rather than the asset it was in babyhood. A helpless baby in the arms of its mother gets plenty of attention; but when a feeble person enters a room, hardly anyone may take notice of him. “Oh, he has had his day,” many seem to think.

Old age and tiredness often go hand in hand. Thus things that others quite easily can do may require great effort for older people. Even daily household chores can be beyond their capabilities, not to speak of thorough housecleaning, painting, care of the yard, and so forth.

Sometimes older people are so tired that they are unable to prepare a hot meal or do shopping. However, they especially need proper nutrition. Often they neglect fresh fruits and vegetables. And because older people often drink too little, they may begin to show symptoms of drying up or dehydrating. In turn, this can lead to drowsiness and confusion.

Many older persons would rather avoid noise and bustle. They prefer to watch the affairs of the day from a quiet corner. But remember that, generally, they continue to be interested in things around them. After a full and interesting life, would you like to be completely disregarded? Of course not! The worst “punishment” to which an elderly person can be condemned is useless loneliness. Yet if aged parents are put in a nursing home to get them out of the way, this may condemn them to such punishment.

However, this is not to say that, under certain circumstances, the best solution may not be a nursing home for your aged parents. Their physical condition may be such that they are essentially bedridden, if not totally so, and they may be in need of constant nursing care. You may have to work to pay the bills, and so are not able to stay at home to provide such care. No other member of the family may be in position to do so either. Some nursing homes have proved to be fine provisions for persons in such circumstances.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

One family said: “We let father and mother choose for themselves: a rest home or living with us. Their choice soon was made: living with us.”

But the question might be: How can we make room for them? While not every family may be able to, many have found that they could. If there is an attic, boys in particular like to sleep there. Or, bunk beds (one bed placed above another) in the children’s bedroom might solve a space problem. Perhaps the whole family could move to larger quarters so that there would be a room available for Granddad or Grandma, or for both of them.

A certain amount of forethought is required when taking a more or less infirm person into the house. It could be dangerous to have loose mats on the floor. Also, ask yourself: Is the light in the corridors bright enough? Are there handgrips on the walls of the bathroom and the corridors? Is the bed at a convenient height for them? Is there a bell to ring in case they need someone’s help during the night?

Doing nothing all day long is not wholesome, and certainly not for elderly people. There are many little jobs they might like to do​—from peeling potatoes to babysitting (the latter if they are able to get about a bit). One Christian woman taught her blind mother to knit, which made the elderly lady much happier. If older people still are able to do something reasonably well, do not “mother” them, even if you could perhaps do the job more neatly yourself.

For elderly people, nothing can break up the day so delightfully as associating with children. And many little ones enjoy such association immensely! Likely nobody else besides Granddad or Grandma has so much time for the youngsters, or is able to tell stories or experiences that are as interesting as those they can tell.

If an aged parent no longer is able to walk, it may be advisable to get a wheelchair. At first, you may have some difficulty getting Grandma or Granddad into it. (“What will people think?”) But when he or she becomes aware that it will now be possible to get out of the house more often, generally all objections will be silenced.

Yet, what can be done for needy parents if they want to live alone or if they are put into a rest home after all? In such cases, some Christians have moved so as to be nearer to their infirm or lonely parents. Then, one of the grandchildren may be permitted to spend the night at the grandparents’ home. Or if they are in a nursing home, regular visits may be made on them. When such a move closer is not possible, a person may ask someone in the neighborhood to look in on his or her parents regularly.

Still, from time to time it would be proper to visit elderly parents or grandparents to make a brief “inspection.” Are they getting all they need in the way of food and heat? Is everything clean? Does anything need to be repaired? Are they perhaps growing lonely? How is their health? Remember, it is your responsibility to see that they receive proper care.

Above all, what your aging parents need is the assurance that you love them very much and that they are not a nuisance to you. Now and then put your arm around them in a friendly way and give them a good hug. An older person has great need of loving warmth and contact. And listen attentively when your parents are telling you something, even though you have heard it all before. It is very distressing for the elderly if they notice that people no longer pay attention to what they say. Feeling that they are not wanted can result in gloom and ultimately in an earlier death.

THE CONGREGATION CAN DO MUCH

But must faithful elderly Christians who have no believing children be deprived of all loving help? No, it is proper that the Christian congregation, “God’s household,” provide loving care for such faithful Christians who have grown old and infirm in the way of God’s truth.​—1 Tim. 3:15; 5:16.

In this connection, one Christian sister wrote: “Although my husband is not in the truth, with his approval I have been looking after a very old spiritual sister (aged 86) for more than six years. I was moved by love for this sister; I saw her as my ‘Granny.’ At first, it was a heavy burden because she ordered everyone about, including the children. Jehovah really helped. The children, too, have learned how to get along with old people.”

Concerning another elderly sister, a Christian brother wrote: “She was baptized at the age of 76, after a hard and lonely life. Because she was a heart patient and also walked with difficulty, she had to have more care. She was then 81 and we were still young and had not yet been married two years. We have succeeded in making these years of her life more pleasant by visiting her every day, even if only for a short while. We arrange all her affairs, and my wife washes and cooks for her. The greatest gift we could give her was to name our son after her. She wept then and said: ‘Now I am really a Granny.’”

Others in the Christian congregation can do much to see that the older ones in their midst get the care that Jehovah God purposed them to have. Do you see an opportunity to aid others in this way?

AN ARRANGEMENT GOD BLESSES

Needless to say, it is no small thing to take your aged parents into your home. But consider some comments by those who have done so:

“It has been an outstanding witness,” observed one person. “The presence of an elderly mother certainly makes for unity in the family.”

Another Christian wrote: “Our blessings are that we have come to appreciate each other more as man and wife, and we have learned to endure.”

Yet another wrote: “When mother came to live with us she was an invalid. But step by step she has extended her work in the family and at the same time has become stronger and healthier.”

What will you do now if either or both of your parents should become infirm? Why not sit down quietly and “turn over” in your mind all the things your parents have done for you in your youth, and even thereafter. Ask yourself: Where would I be without them? What example can I give my children by lovingly caring for my parents? Also, what does God want me to do? His answer is: “Do not hold back good from those to whom it is owing, when it happens to be in the power of your hand to do it.”​—Prov. 3:27.

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Jesus committed the care of his mother to his disciple John

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Christians are obligated to repay their parents for the care they received when they were young

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Many older ones need help. Can you do something for them?

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Aging parents are comforted by assurance that you love them

A Wise Proverb

“Honor is what the wise ones will come to possess, but the stupid ones are exalting dishonor.”​—Prov. 3:35.

A person who exhibits true wisdom frequently is the recipient of honor that he did not seek. The unsought honor comes to him because other persons can see that he acts in accord with knowledge and insight, that he is an exemplary person. (Prov. 12:8; 22:29) This is because he seeks and adheres to divine wisdom. (Jas. 3:13, 17) How different it is with “the stupid ones”! They give top priority to things that do not bring true or enduring honor but that will eventually result in dishonor to them. Because of stupidity, they do not foresee what the result will be. How vast the difference between ‘the wise one’ and ‘the stupid one’!

The Mountain Kingdom Lesotho Hears the “Good News”

YOUR first sight of Lesotho, if you drive to it through South Africa, will be a line of jagged peaks, like a gigantic saw, on the skyline. Except for a narrow strip of lowland on its western border, Lesotho is entirely mountainous. It is tucked away in the heart of the Drakensberg Mountains, which form the spine of southern Africa.

Covering only 11,720 square miles (30,355 km²), it is one of the smallest countries in Africa and has a population of about 1,100,000. It is governed by a prime minister and Western-style Parliament, and it also has a king, Moshoeshoe II (pronounced Moshwayshway). Hence, it is called the “Mountain Kingdom.”

Lesotho is probably the coldest country of Africa. The winters in the mountains are bitter, with peaks and passes often shrouded in snow. Had you ever thought of snow-skiing in Africa?

In the 1820’s the area was held by a small tribe under chief Moshoeshoe I. At that time, a warlike Zulu chief called Chaka was on the rampage to the east, and fragments of defeated tribes were given refuge in Moshoeshoe’s domain. Eventually, this developed into Lesotho. Inhabitants are known as “Basotho” (singular, “Mosotho”) and the language spoken is “Sesotho.”

Lesotho is an enclave surrounded mainly by South Africa, but also partly by the new state of Transkei. The main entrance to the country is from the west, where one drives across a narrow bridge over the Caledon River. One is greeted by the sign Kena ka khotso (Enter in peace). A mile farther on one enters Maseru, the sleepy little capital.

Maseru (population, 17,000) is a mixture of Western sophistication and African life. Modern buildings ‘rub shoulders’ with little mud huts; herds of cattle hold up traffic in the streets; sheep sometimes wander into gardens and munch on the flowers.

THE “GOOD NEWS” REACHES LESOTHO

It was in the early 1940’s that the “good news” reached Lesotho. Two Basotho men, who had worked in South Africa and had received the “good news” there, returned to Lesotho in 1942 and started spreading the Kingdom message with great zeal. By 1951 there were five small congregations and some 63 active witnesses of Jehovah, including 10 full-time proclaimers of the “good news.”

In Maseru itself there is now a large congregation with 125 publishers of the “good news” and a fine Kingdom Hall. There are also two missionary couples who spread the “good news” to the Basotho people and to a polyglot population of foreigners. Of the latter, many are engaged in aid programmes run by the United Nations and other organizations. So the missionaries, when working in Maseru, must have literature in many languages.

On one occasion a Chinese lady, who spoke very little English, was glad to be visited by a missionary couple. She showed them the latest issue of The Watchtower in Chinese saying: “Magazine, like ver’ much.” She was receiving it as a result of a gift subscription submitted by a missionary in Taiwan. A Bible study was started with her.

Preaching to the Basotho people is quite a contrast to witnessing to the foreigners. The very homes are so different. Usually, they are huts made from interwoven twigs and mud, with grass-thatched roofs. The mud on the outside walls is often worked into pretty and complicated patterns. The floors are smeared with cow dung, which, incidentally, sets firm and smooth and is not smelly.

The Basotho usually are friendly and hospitable. Westerners often are abrupt and hurried in manner, whereas the Basotho consider this undignified, indeed rude. When calling at the homes a Witness invariably is invited to sit down; it is bad manners to allow visitors to stand and talk. Then the visitor must first exchange greetings and polite conversation with the householder. It takes a while to enquire mutually about health, where one is from, how many children one has, and so forth. Only then can the Kingdom proclaimer start talking about the “good news.” Often the whole family will assemble to listen.

Yes, life in Lesotho is pleasantly slow-moving​—no one ever hurries. When you pass someone on the road, even though a stranger, it is customary to stop and exchange greetings and polite conversation. But for the missionaries the making of appointments can be trying​—no one is ever on time!

THE MOUNTAINOUS REGION

The western plain, where Maseru and other small towns are situated, is narrow. To the east lie the mountains​—rugged and mainly barren. Much of this beautiful country is accessible only by narrow tracks. The railway from South Africa ends in Maseru and so is only one mile long. There are a few roads in the mountains. Most of them are gravel roads, with very steep passes in places. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is essential. One pass is appropriately called Molimo Nthuse, or, “God Help Me” Pass!

As a result, Lesotho is one of the “horsiest” countries in the world and the hardy, surefooted Basotho pony is a well-known breed in southern Africa. In the highlands a common sight is a local inhabitant wrapped in his colourful blanket, topped with his typical grass hat, sitting astride his pony and clip-clopping his way on the trail. Donkeys, too, play an important part in Lesotho transport. Sometimes they are so burdened with firewood, furniture or other loads that the small, long-suffering donkey almost disappears.

How, then, did the “good news” reach the villages in these remote, almost inaccessible mountains?

It was as a result of the poor economical situation in Lesotho that causes the majority of men, for a year or two, to seek work in South Africa, mainly at the gold mines. While in the mines, some accept the Bible’s message from Jehovah’s Witnesses and then pass it on to their families and friends when they return home.

But the Kingdom message has reached remote mountain areas in other ways. One Witness got a job as a roadmaker on the road leading to Mantsonyane, deep in the mountains. This zealous Witness talked to all he met about the “good news.” He started Bible studies with some of his fellow workers and organised a study group while they were living in tents at the roadside. He also preached to the people in the villages. Seeing their response, this brother got a job in Mantsonyane, resulting in the formation there of a group of active proclaimers of the “good news.”

The African travelling overseers also have done a fine work in getting the “good news” spread in the mountains. To reach the small village called Hatebesi, where there were just two Kingdom proclaimers, one overseer walked for 22 hours. On his way there, he was given shelter and refreshment at night in a certain village. Soon the little hut was filled with local people who were eager to hear the message. The next day the local villagers lent him two donkeys to help complete the journey. On arrival at Hatebesi, successful meetings were held every evening, with a final public talk attended by 62 people.

On his next visit the travelling overseer used a horse to carry his battery-operated slide projector, his blankets and other equipment. During that short stay many people came to ask Bible questions and request a Bible study. For the slide showing 86 people​—nearly the whole village—​attended.

Reaching such isolated and scattered mountain territory demands hard work and sacrifices. Those whose hearts are fired by love of God and their neighbours have to walk long distances to pass on the “good news” to others. Often mothers do not leave their babies at home but take them along on their backs in the African way. Sometimes loving fathers will carry the babies, too, realizing that the mothers are tired. This alone helps people in the territory to see the loving consideration of Christian fathers for their families.

The Witnesses at Quthing, near the southwestern border of Lesotho, succeeded in forming a new congregation in an unusual way. Their efforts to reach an isolated place in the mountains were rewarded when a member of a certain church accepted literature and then a Bible study. The interested man began, in time, to pass on the “good news” to his fellow church members, and one day the whole congregation was present to hear what the Witness conducting the study was teaching. Finally, many of them accepted the message and became dedicated servants of Jehovah. There is now a congregation there with a Kingdom Hall able to seat 300 people.

CUSTOMS

Like all African countries, Lesotho has many traditional customs related to witchcraft and ancestor worship. Some of these are strange indeed. For example, one Witness was accused of not putting a blanket on her shoulders when returning from the hospital after giving birth to her first child. A local chief said that failing to do this would bring hail or a storm that would destroy their crops.

Later this woman’s husband was seen hanging baby nappies (diapers) out to dry. The village headman told him to take them down. Why? Because he said hanging out nappies between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. could cause bad weather.

NEUTRALITY OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES

A few years ago there was a violent political uprising in Lesotho. The government quelled it and then sent men around to the villages to punish supporters of the opposition. As the government forces approached a certain village, an elderly couple, knowing their property and even their lives were in danger, fled to the mountains with their two grown sons​—well known as opposition supporters. But their daughter, one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and her little baby stayed behind.

Government forces were soon at the kraal and started ransacking the huts. However, when they came to the hut where the Witness and her baby were they recognised her. Knowing that she was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and, hence, neutral in politics, they left her and the home alone. This is just one example of many where the neutral stand of Jehovah’s Witnesses has served as a real means of protection.​—John 15:19.

OPPOSITION

Apart from the traditional ancestor worship and witchcraft, there are many sects and churches of Christendom operating in Lesotho. Prominent among these is the Roman Catholic Church. Since in Catholic schools much attention is given to religious prayers and ceremonies, the children of Jehovah’s Witnesses are often in trouble. In some places quite a number of these children have been expelled from school for refusing to take part in false worship.

However, freedom of worship exists in Lesotho. Some time ago, in a small place near Mohale’s Hoek, the local chief expelled a special pioneer (full-time worker) from the area and ordered a small group of Kingdom proclaimers to stop meeting and preaching. But the matter was taken up with the district administrator. He instructed the chief to stop interfering with Jehovah’s Witnesses, whose work and worship are legally recognized in the country.

Not all priests are opposed to the “good news.” A travelling overseer reports that when working from house to house in a certain village he came to the home of a priest associated with the Church of England. As the overseer approached the house a voice from within called out: “Please don’t pass me by. Come inside.” This led to a long and enjoyable discussion of the “good news” and the placing of Bible literature. The priest admitted that two women who had behaved badly while in his church changed considerably for the better when they left and became Jehovah’s Witnesses. The friendly attitude of the priest opened the way for many people in that area to listen to the Kingdom message.

In spite of opposition, lack of good roads and transport, local superstitions and many other setbacks, the Kingdom-preaching work is flourishing in this mountain kingdom. In 1942 there were only two Basotho Witnesses spreading the “good news” in Lesotho. Now there are over 600. And at the 1980 Memorial of Christ’s death there were 2,690 in attendance. Did not Isaiah prophesy that “the little one himself will become a thousand”? (Isa. 60:22)​—Contributed.

Yeartext for 1981

Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide are delighted that their loving God has given them the privilege of announcing his Kingdom. With loyalty to Jehovah, therefore, they are determined to press on in this blessed activity.

Each year, Jehovah’s people are pleased to have before their minds a specially selected Bible text. It spurs them onward in “sacred service” and provides spiritually upbuilding food for thought.​—Rom. 12:1; Rev. 7:9-17.

During the 1981 calendar year, Jehovah’s Witnesses will have as their yeartext the following words of the divinely inspired psalmist David, who said of Jehovah God:

“Your loyal ones will bless you. About the glory of your kingship they will talk.”​—Ps. 145:10, 11.

“Working Hard and Exerting Ourselves”

“We are working hard and exerting ourselves, because we have rested our hope on a living God, who is a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.”​—1 Tim. 4:10

1-3. Why is it appropriate for Christians today to give attention to their attitude toward work?

DO YOU enjoy working hard? Do you appreciate worthwhile effort and accomplishment? If so, you stand in contrast with many today.

² You may have observed that, while there have always been lazy persons, the dislike for work seems to be growing. (Prov. 20:4; 19:24; 2 Thess. 3:11) We see it in advice such as, ‘Take it easy. Do not push yourself.’ What starts off as a dislike of just strenuous work can easily grow into a disdain for all work.

³ As Christians, we no doubt feel that we do not have that spirit. It would, though, be unrealistic to feel that we are immune when the world in general has such a powerful and pervasive attitude. We can benefit from periodically examining our view of work, for the view we have can affect our share in Christian activities that are important to God.

WORKERS TO IMITATE

4. How important is work?

⁴ Many men who have observed life and its values have commented on the importance of work. German statesman Karl W. von Humboldt said: “Work is as much a necessity to man as eating and sleeping.” That fact of itself gives many persons a reason to be busy and productive. Christians, however, have additional reason to cultivate an appreciation for hard work: In this, Jehovah and Jesus Christ set for us a pattern that we should imitate.​—Eph. 5:1; 1 Cor. 11:1.

5, 6. What example as to work is set by Jehovah and Jesus?

⁵ The whole universe​—from the awesome thermonuclear sun to the delicate butterfly—​testifies that God is a worker. All his visible creations are his “works.” Also, his constant protection and guidance of his servants are “works” that we should appreciate. (Ps. 145:4-6, 10; 8:4-9) His Son, too, is a hard worker. Leaving behind his carpentry in a Galilean town, Jesus traveled hundreds of miles over hot, dusty countryside to help people​—to heal, to preach, to teach. (Matt. 4:17, 23-25; Luke 8:1; 9:57, 58) Though he was perfect, Christ grew tired and hungry by working long and late.​—Matt. 21:18; Mark 1:32, 35; 6:32-34; John 4:3-6, 34.

⁶ We thus can be sure that neither God nor Jesus have a ‘take it easy’ attitude. Christ stated: “My Father has kept working until now, and I keep working.” (John 5:17) In fact, he explained that his “works”​—what he did with God’s backing—​gave evidence of his having God’s approval. (John 10:25, 38) Nor is this unrelated to our lives. All our Bible-based hopes depend for fulfillment on what Jesus did as a hardworking worshiper of God.

7. What should our approach be in reflecting on our view of work?

⁷ Each of us can, and should, reflect on our view and pattern as to work. In this we need not be harshly critical or overly demanding of ourselves. We all have our physical limits as well as limiting circumstances. Also, Jesus’ course shows that we can rightly enjoy rest, relaxation, pleasant association and some comforts. (Mark 6:31; Luke 5:29; 7:34; John 2:2-10; 12:2, 3) But the very imperfection that stresses our need for rest can move us to carry rest to extremes, as emphasized by the Bible’s warnings about laziness. The fact is, just as being hungry makes a meal taste better, so hard work makes rest and relaxation more enjoyable.​—Eccl. 2:24; 5:12, 18.

8, 9. When should Christians be hard working?

⁸ The word “work” may particularly bring to our minds the secular work that many of us do to earn life’s necessities. Bible counsel shows that in this we should be conscientious, diligent. (Prov. 10:4; 22:29) That should be true, also, with our duties in the home or even our studies at school, for all aspects of our life can reflect the improvement made in us by applying Christian principles. The apostle Paul wrote: “Whatever you are doing, work at it whole-souled as to Jehovah, and not to men, for you know that it is from Jehovah you will receive the due reward of the inheritance.”​—Col. 3:23, 24.

⁹ However, let us focus now on one specific part of a Christian’s life​—his praising God by preaching and teaching. This work is vital, for by means of it ‘we can save both ourselves and those who listen to us.’​—1 Tim. 4:16.

10, 11. We have what special reasons for working hard in spreading the Christian faith?

¹⁰ Observe that Paul did not suggest that a Christian be interested only in his own salvation. He ought to be concerned with helping others to accept Jesus as the Christ and to practice the godly devotion that “holds promise of the life now and that which is to come.” (1 Tim. 4:8) After mentioning this prospect, Paul wrote:

“For to this end we are working hard and exerting ourselves, because we have rested our hope on a living God, who is a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.”​—1 Tim. 4:10.

¹¹ Think of that. Salvation from God​—everlasting life in happiness—​is open to “all sorts of men.” But who finally will be saved? It is only the “faithful ones,” those who develop and exercise faith. Appreciating that, the apostle could not take it easy, living a rather normal life and sometimes, if it was convenient, speak to a few others about this possible salvation. No! The prospect that others could learn the Christian message and come onto the way of salvation was so impressive to Paul, so overwhelmingly important, that he was ‘working hard and exerting himself.’ Is that how you feel about it? Personally reflect on your course of activity over the past month or six months. Is it fully plain to you​—and to others, including God—​that you are working hard, exerting yourself?

WORKING HARD TO SPREAD THE KINGDOM MESSAGE

12. What relation do works have to salvation?

¹² Christians know that they cannot get saved by merely performing certain works, as if thereby earning righteousness and salvation. (Rom. 3:28) Yet it is true that if we have genuine faith, we will produce works as a result of that faith. (Jas. 2:18-26) It is thus fitting to give prayerful thought to our faith and our works.

13. According to Jesus, what would his disciples do after his death?

¹³ In “working hard and exerting ourselves,” as Paul did, we can share in fulfilling a prophetic truth that Jesus uttered. Think of that​—you can help to prove Jesus’ words true. Which words? They were spoken in answer to Philip’s request, “Show us the Father.” (John 14:8) Jesus said:

“He that has seen me has seen the Father also. . . . The things I say to you men I do not speak of my own originality; but the Father who remains in union with me is doing his works. Most truly I say to you, He that exercises faith in me, that one also will do the works that I do; and he will do works greater than these, because I am going my way to the Father.”​—John 14:9, 10, 12.

14, 15. At John 14:12, did Jesus mean that his followers would perform greater miracles? Why?

¹⁴ How could Jesus’ disciples do works greater than he did? Might you be able to share in doing such greater works? The Bible reveals that God enabled some Christians to work miracles, such as expelling demons, healing the sick and, in a few cases, resurrecting the dead. This was to show that he was now dealing with and blessing the Christian congregation. (Acts 3:2-8; 5:12-16; 9:36-40; 16:16-18) But were those works greater than what Jesus did? He cured all who came to him and even some at a distance, miraculously fed thousands, resurrected the dead and controlled natural forces. (Matt. 8:5-16, 23-27; 14:14-33; John 11:39-44) Furthermore, the miraculous gifts of the spirit that some Christians displayed were to end or pass away. (1 Cor. 13:8-10) So how were Christians to do greater works than Jesus?

¹⁵ Jesus had spoken what his Father wanted. He did the greatest, most lasting, good, not by his miracles, but by his marvelous teaching about the Kingdom.a (Luke 4:32, 43) After he was resurrected Jesus commissioned his followers after him to ‘make disciples of people of all the nations, teaching them.’ (Matt. 28:19, 20) Yes, Christians were to carry on a vast witnessing work. It was to be on a wider scale than Jesus’ preaching, for a longer time and to far more people. Thus, they would do works greater than he did.

16. Was Jesus’ work to end with his death and ascension to heaven?

¹⁶ The work Jesus did of preaching and teaching about the Kingdom was not to end with his death and ascension to heaven. From there he would continue to conduct the important educational campaign, but doing so through his followers. Luke goes on to say that prior to Jesus’ ascension he told the disciples more “about the kingdom of God.” (Acts 1:3) Finally, he said to them: “You will be witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth.”​—Acts 1:8.

17, 18. How on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., did Jesus’ followers begin to fulfill his words about greater works?

¹⁷ In short order they began doing works greater than Jesus. On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E. Jesus poured out holy spirit on the 120 disciples waiting in Jerusalem. What did they then do? Multiply food? Teach persons about farming? Even cure some sick persons? No, they started to speak, to declare “the magnificent things of God.” (Acts 2:1-11) Then the apostle Peter gave such a convincing witness that thousands of his listeners accepted Christ.

¹⁸ It must have been quite a task just to baptize so many new believers that day. Possibly, they dispersed to pools throughout the city. By day’s end the disciples evidently reported on what was done, for the account says that ‘those who embraced the word and were baptized amounted to about three thousand souls.’ From about 120 to over 3,000 (an increase of more than 2,500 percent) in one day. (Acts 1:15; 2:41) Truly they had commenced doing works greater than Jesus did.

19. Was this a work for just the apostles or elders in congregations?

¹⁹ But some Christians today may feel, ‘I’m no Peter or Paul. Were they not the sort of persons that would do the works greater than Jesus?’ That is a valid question. The book of Acts shows that the apostles, special evangelists and spiritual elders in the congregations certainly did engage in preaching the Kingdom. But notice this historical fact related by the disciple Luke: “Great persecution arose against the congregation that was in Jerusalem; all except the apostles were scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria.” (Acts 8:1) And what did these scattered Christians, young and old, male and female, do? “Those who had been scattered went through the land declaring the good news of the word.” (Acts 8:4) Yes, all preached.

20. Why is it now particularly important for us to think about sharing in the fulfillment of John 14:12?

²⁰ True Christians today carry on the preaching and teaching that Jesus started and that their first-century brothers and sisters continued. But current events fulfilling Bible prophecy show us that God will soon bring the end of the present wicked system of things, thereby concluding the present preaching of the “good news of the kingdom.” (Matt. 24:14) Hence, each of us can ask, ‘Am I presently having a full share in the vital work Jesus spoke of in John 14:12? Am I working hard and exerting myself? When this work is concluded, will I be satisfied that I had a full share in it?’

HOW MUCH DOES GOD EXPECT?

21-23. What reevaluation can we make of our circumstances?

²¹ In having a satisfying share in the Christian preaching work, we should not ignore valid Scriptural obligations with regard to our family, relatives, job or school. (1 Tim. 5:8) Nor would God want us to feel guilty in caring for those obligations; we should do so happily. But we sometimes can take stock of our time and activities.

²² Many of us might benefit from some balanced self-examination and self-discipline. Maybe eliminating many of the nonessentials for keeping a decent standard of living could be helpful.

²³ No one should be critical of what others do in this area. The important thing is to analyze whether we personally are still manifesting a keen appreciation for our role in doing works greater than Jesus did.

24. A poor widow set what good example for us?

²⁴ Perhaps we are giving our all, though it amounts to less than the health and circumstances of another permits him to give. But quantity itself is not the criterion. Recall Jesus’ favorable comment about the poor widow who contributed two small coins of “very little value.” Those coins (leptas) were worth about one-64th of a day’s wage. How much is that in the values of where you live? Jesus commended her course, though, for she “dropped in all of what she had, her whole living.” (Mark 12:41-44) We can be sure also of such approval if we are giving our all​—working hard and exerting ourselves—​in the witnessing work.

25. What did Mary do for Jesus shortly before his death?

²⁵ We can also call to mind when Mary, Lazarus’ sister, anointed Jesus with costly perfumed oil. Some disciples complained, for the oil was worth 300 denarii. Considering sabbaths and festivals, that was what a workman would earn in a whole year. How much do you, or a family member, earn in a year? (John 12:3-8; Matt. 20:2) Jesus said regarding Mary’s effort:

“She did a fine deed toward me. . . . She did what she could; she undertook beforehand to put perfumed oil on my body in view of the burial. Truly I say to you, Wherever the good news is preached in all the world, what this woman did shall also be told as a remembrance of her.”​—Mark 14:6-9.

26, 27. In what way was Mary exemplary?

²⁶ Note those words, “She did what she could.” There is no evidence that Mary was empowered to perform miracles; she could not be an apostle, nor an elder when the Christian congregation was formed; and she may not have been able to travel extensively with the “good news.” But “she did what she could.” What is the sense of that? In some languages the expression “Do what you can” has the flavor of ‘Do not push yourself; take it easy.’ Yet Jesus did not mean that. Mary had truly extended herself. Some Bible translators have rendered the words, “She has done all she could,” or, “She has done all that she had it in her power to do.”​—C. K. Williams; W. Barclay.

²⁷ This giving fully of herself was an ongoing concern for Mary, not a onetime occurrence. Earlier Mary showed where her heart was by sitting at Jesus’ feet to listen to his teaching. (Luke 10:38-42) Now she continued her support of this outstanding preacher, Jesus. And, interestingly, Jesus tied in Mary’s deed with the worldwide preaching work, saying that wherever the “good news” was spread she would be remembered. She was interested in the preaching. So was Jesus, down to his death.

28. What sort of religion is Christianity, this meaning what for us?

²⁸ Are we like those two women who gave their all? Are we intensely interested in the preaching work that Jesus started when he was on earth and is now continuing through Christians earth wide? We should be. God is. When Christianity began on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., it was a witnessing religion, and God backed it by his spirit. He is still doing that, for he has not changed. He is “a living God,” both being alive himself and offering life to all true worshipers. Thus Christianity today should be and still is a witnessing religion. And Christians have every reason for being enthusiastic workers in the service of God, “who is a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.”​—1 Tim. 4:10.

[Footnotes]

[Picture on page 16]

They did all they could

“Engaging in the Holy Work of the Good News”

“The undeserved kindness [was] given to me from God for me to be a public servant of Christ Jesus to the nations, engaging in the holy work of the good news.”​—Rom. 15:15, 16.

1, 2. Why are speech and conduct important?

A PERSON gets a reputation based on his activities and speech. Others often draw conclusions about him and his principles based on what they see him do and hear him say. King Solomon wrote: “Even by his actions a youth maketh himself known, whether his work be pure or upright.”​—Prov. 20:11, Young’s Literal Translation; Matt. 7:16-20.

² What does that mean for you if you are a Christian? Should not others be able to notice from our conduct and speech that we are serving the true God, Jehovah? The Bible assures us that God is holy and pure, that his principles are righteous and produce good. (Isa. 6:3; Job 34:10; Deut. 32:4) If we are truly absorbing the spirit of what God is, that ought to be clear from our lives.​—Eph. 5:1.

3, 4. (a) What effect was produced by Israel’s worship and history? (b) How should others be affected by observing Christianity?

³ As true worship is manifested in human lives, other persons can be affected beneficially. For example, for a time Jehovah dealt primarily with Israel. He told them: “You should prove yourselves holy, because I Jehovah your God am holy.” (Lev. 19:2; compare Exodus 19:5, 6.) The dietary, sanitary and moral laws that God gave to the Israelites helped to safeguard them from many of the defiling practices common in surrounding nations. Many foreigners could see how successful the way of true worship was and how God was leading and protecting Israel. This impressed them, and moved many to worship Jehovah themselves.​—1 Ki. 8:41, 42; 10:1; Ruth 1:16.

⁴ The same good effect comes when true Christians live their lives in harmony with God’s directions. The transformed lives and “fine conduct” of Christians will move some eyewitnesses to “glorify God.” (1 Pet. 2:12, 15; 3:1, 2; Titus 2:7, 8; 1 Thess. 4:11, 12) But the Bible makes it clear that the focus of Christianity is not merely on living a clean moral life and developing a fine personality that reflects the “fruitage of the spirit.” (Gal. 5:22, 23; Eph. 4:22-24) Important as these features of Christianity are, there is yet a unique work to do if one is to be a true follower of Jesus.

“THE HOLY WORK OF THE GOOD NEWS”

5. (a) Jesus’ example shows that what else is important for us? (b) Why is this activity important?

⁵ As a young boy and later as a perfect man, Jesus honored his heavenly Father. His way of life and personality set a fine example for others, moving many observers to glorify God. (Luke 2:49, 52) As soon as he was baptized Jesus “commenced his work,” exerting himself as he went around “preaching the good news of the kingdom.” (Luke 3:23; Matt. 4:17, 23) He even trained others to share in this work, sending them out to teach people. (Luke 10:1, 8, 9) At first this teaching and disciple-making work was done only among the Jews. But later it was to expand, for, as the apostle Paul explained in Romans 15:8, 9, God’s will was that all peoples of the earth might be helped to glorify him.

6, 7. What “holy work” did the apostle Paul do?

⁶ Paul himself actively worked to that end. In Romans 15:16 he called himself “a public servant of Christ Jesus to the nations.” What did that ‘service’ entail? He added that he was “engaging in the holy work of the good news of God, in order that the offering, namely, these nations, might prove to be acceptable.” What does that mean?

⁷ At Romans 15:16 we have the only use in the Bible of a Greek verb (hierourgounta) that means ‘to work or engage in a sacred thing.’a Thus Paul was saying that he was actively engaged in the holy or sacred work of preaching the good news of God, the Christian message, to people of the nations. Those who accepted the message and became Christians were like an offering made to God, an offering that Jehovah approved of and blessed with his spirit.​—Rom. 1:1, 16.

8. How did Paul carry out this work among Jews?

⁸ How did Paul and others do this “holy work of the good news of God,” preaching the Christian message? The “good news” could save lives, so they would want to reach as many persons as possible. At times Paul, himself a Jew, was able to address Jews assembled in synagogues. (Acts 13:14-42; 14:1; 18:4) But could he and other Christians reach the majority of the “nations,” the non-Jews?

9. What methods could early Christians use to aid non-Jews?

⁹ Christians could speak to persons in public places, such as the marketplace. (Acts 17:17-22) Yet it is unlikely that doing just that would reach virtually all persons. What about going to the homes of persons, as Jesus’ disciples did when he sent them out to preach in various cities? (Matt. 10:5-13; Luke 9:2-6) The early Christians used this method, too, as they enthusiastically ‘engaged in the holy work’ of spreading Christianity to all peoples.

10. What evidence is there that house-to-house witnessing was done to locate and help unbelievers?

¹⁰ We can see this from comments Paul made to men who had become elders in the Ephesian congregation. Speaking about his past preaching, when he had introduced Christianity to them, Paul said: “I did not neglect to preach to you about those things which were good for your souls, and I taught in the streets and from house to house, thus testifying both to the Jews and to the Arameans [or, Gentiles] about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus.” (Acts 20:20, 21, translated from Syriac by George M. Lamsa)b Clearly, Paul was here speaking of his efforts to preach to these men when they were yet unbelievers, persons needing to repent and put faith in Jesus. Paul went to the homes of such unbelievers. He had no reason to feel hesitant about such preaching to strangers, for he was doing a “holy work” that God approved of and would bless.

11. (a) How do Christians today carry out this “holy work”? (b) Why is sharing in the house-to-house preaching important?

¹¹ In modern times, also, Jehovah’s Witnesses have been active in house-to-house witnessing as a primary way to contact persons and preach God’s truth. Of course, each Christian who feels his obligation and privilege to declare the “good news” will use every appropriate occasion to witness​—to relatives, schoolmates, fellow workers, neighbors and to strangers while in informal conversation. Thus, even in lands where extreme opposition from rabid religious elements or the police state makes it impossible or indiscreet to witness publicly from house to house, Christians continue to do all they can to witness in those other ways. Nevertheless, in all places where such extremes do not prevail, Jehovah’s Witnesses systematically visit each home. This results in a ‘thorough witness’ and in their contacting many persons who might not otherwise meet true Christians and hear “the good news.”​—Acts 4:19, 20; 20:21; compare Ezekiel 9:3, 4.

AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO WITNESS?

12-14. What indicates that house-to-house preaching can be effective?

¹² But is this method of evangelizing still an effective way of “engaging in the holy work of the good news”? The evidence shouts, YES! In 1977 the journal Social Compass published the article “Jehovah’s Witnesses in Japan,” by British sociologist Bryan Wilson. He wrote that they are “much more single minded in the work of evangelization than any of” the ‘new religions’ in Japan. Also, he conducted a survey that revealed:

“The majority [58.3%] of those who have become Witnesses declare that they first had their interest awakened by receiving a house-call from” one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

¹³ Even religionists who refuse to accept the Bible-based teaching spread by Jehovah’s Witnesses acknowledge the effectiveness of the house-to-house evangelizing the Witnesses do. We read:

“Perhaps [the churches] are excessively neglectful about that which precisely constitutes the greatest preoccupation of the Witnesses​—the home visit, that comes within the apostolic methodology of the primitive church. While the churches, on not a few occasions, limit themselves to . . . preaching inside their places of meeting, [the Witnesses] follow the apostolic method of going from house to house.”​—“El Catholicismo,” Bogotá, Colombia, Sept. 14, 1975.

‘Catholics should follow the lead of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in evangelism, participants in the first National Congress on Evangelization were told.’​—Minneapolis “Tribune,” Aug. 29, 1977.

¹⁴ House-to-house evangelizing is so distinctive of Jehovah’s Witnesses that in many lands a householder will open the door and say, “Oh, you must be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.” Even if nothing more was discussed from the Bible, good has been done. Attention has been drawn thus to the holy name of God, which deserves to be sanctified. And the householder has had impressed on him that God’s servants were there with His message. (Matt. 6:9; Isa. 12:4; Ezek. 33:6-9, 29) But, as the quotations above show, often much more results.

15. How has this effective work been done in some places where there are obstacles?

¹⁵ The person-to-person witnessing at homes is so useful and effective in contacting persons that great effort to share in it is put forth by the Witnesses even under difficult conditions. That was so in one African land where the authorities banned this Bible-based activity. The local Christians knew that this method of evangelizing is valuable, that they should ‘obey God as ruler rather than man’ and that they should apply Jesus’ advice to be “cautious as serpents and yet innocent as doves.” (Acts 5:29; Matt. 10:16, 17) What would they do?

They could arrange things so a few of them divided up a long street or area according to house numbers. One would have all houses ending with 2 (2, 12, 22, 32, etc.) and could visit them in any order he wanted, whenever he could. Another had houses ending with 3 (3, 13, etc.) and could visit on a different day. Thus a thorough witness could be given.

Different approaches could be used, too. One Christian might have a small basket of eggs or fruits, offering these for sale to the householder, but at a price higher than in the market. Sales would be few, but many discussions would begin over high costs, difficulties of life today and then, if it seemed favorable, the fulfillment of Bible prophecy.

Or, a Christian needing to buy vegetables might use this to contact persons in his “territory.” Before going to the market he might call at homes with a garden, asking about buying the vegetables. Whether a purchase results or not, often a conversation is possible with Bible thoughts used.

In these ways local Christians avoided harassment by political hoodlums who before had troubled those preaching from house to house. Also, a thorough witness was given in the community.

16. What other adaptations might be made for the Witnesses to continue to be effective in this method of preaching?

¹⁶ A different adaptation may be needed elsewhere. In past years it may have been normal to call at homes in the mornings, when many householders were at home. But if conditions change and most are now at work then, does that mean this method of preaching is not practical? No, for how else will all​—in each home and apartment—​be contacted and given opportunity to benefit from the “good news”? It may be advisable to make the visits in the afternoon or early evening, when family members are at home. The goal is to reach and help persons, as many as possible.​—Compare Acts 16:13.

17. With Paul’s example in mind, how might we personally make adjustments as we carry out this work?

¹⁷ The apostle Paul was willing to adapt his ways and approach to fit his audience. He said: “I do all things for the sake of the good news, that I may become a sharer of it with others.” (1 Cor. 9:19-23) Similar adaptability can help today. What, for example, if you live in an area where most persons have lost interest in religion and the Bible? Would you adjust your approach accordingly?

A Witness in Belgium relates: ‘I have the Bible open in hand but do not immediately identify it. I say, “While waiting for you to come to the door I was looking at what was written here . . . ‘Happy are the mild-tempered ones, since they will inherit the earth.’ [Matt. 5:5] Do you think there are still mild-tempered ones among us?” Invariably a conversation begins and later the Bible is more easily accepted.’

A WORK THAT GOD BLESSES

18. What reasons do we have for knowing that God is interested in the “holy work of the good news”?

¹⁸ Christians earth wide are intensely interested in “the holy work of the good news.” So is Jehovah God. Paul said that new Christians resulting from his share in this work were like an offering that was acceptable to God, who poured his spirit on them.​—Rom. 15:16.

19. How can this work be effective even when most do not listen?

¹⁹ God’s acceptance and blessing continue on this preaching work, including the important house-to-house activity of locating and helping persons. As just one indication, a minister who visits congregations in a large district accepted an invitation to accompany a Christian in Maryland on a call to conduct a Bible study. He says:

“I asked the householder what motivated her to study the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses. She said that often she would open the Bible at random, point her finger at a verse and read it. But she seldom could understand what she read.

“One day she was very depressed over serious family problems. Again she opened her Bible and picked out a verse. She could not understand it, and in her depression and disappointment began to cry. She prayed to God to send her someone to help her understand his Word. Just as she said that, the doorbell rang. Answering it she found a Witness, who began, ‘Would you like to understand the Bible?’ The householder pulled her inside and quickly a regular study was begun.”

20-23. What blessings can result from an increased share in the house-to-house preaching work?

²⁰ Good effects can be produced even when it seems that most of those encountered reject the “good news” being brought to them.

A teenager was calling from door to door in a rural village in South Africa one Saturday afternoon. She met with little favorable response, for a religious organization in the community had generated considerable prejudice against the helpful Christian efforts of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Door after door was quickly closed in her face. It seemed futile.

But unknown to her, curious eyes were watching from a window across the street. An elderly woman observed the Witness’ endurance despite unfriendly responses. Clearly this Christian was different from other youths.

When her home was reached the elderly woman invited the Witness in. Though the girl spoke mainly English and the woman Afrikaans, they were able to communicate about an important Bible message for our time. Later an Afrikaans-speaking minister followed up the interest, and the elderly woman happily agreed to have a regular study of God’s Word.

²¹ Actually, God’s blessing on “the holy work of the good news” is felt in many ways. A traveling minister who visits congregations in the New Orleans, Louisiana, area wrote: “The evangelizing spirit is growing stronger. The last eight or nine congregations that we have visited have been spending much more time in the preaching activity. With this increased effort, more persons interested in the ‘good news’ are being located. And since the brothers and sisters are busier in proclaiming the ‘good news,’ a spirit of peace and joy is really becoming more evident in the congregations.”

²² Such peace and joy also increases in the personal and family lives of those Christians energetically preaching the “good news” and sensing God’s blessing. Oh, there will still be some problems and anxieties in life. We realize that these will be present as long as we are imperfect and the present wicked system of things continues. But as a Christian becomes more occupied in the God-ordained “holy work of the good news” life will become fuller, richer, happier. (Acts 20:35) This is not mere theory. It works. It did with the apostle Paul. It does with millions of Jehovah’s Witnesses today. It will with you.

²³ Others, too, will be able to notice the sort of Christian you are. They will observe you sharing in the work of proclaiming the “good news.” They will see the peace and joy this and other Christian activities bring to your life. They will note the many ways in which you reflect the Christian personality and the “fruitage of the spirit.” (Eph. 4:24; Gal. 5:22, 23) Yes, you will manifest to many others that you are successfully serving a holy God.

24. How can you feel about your sharing fully in this work?

²⁴ After Paul’s comment about “engaging in the holy work of the good news,” he added: “Therefore I have cause for exulting in Christ Jesus when it comes to things pertaining to God.” (Rom. 15:17) Let all of us as Christians work so that we, too, can thus exult in Christ Jesus.

[Footnotes]

[Picture on page 20]

‘Greater works’ began at Pentecost

[Pictures on page 21]

Today ‘greater works’ are shared in by Witnesses around the globe

Insight on the News

After Mass

● Writing in the “National Catholic Reporter,” Clarence J. Walker told of the results of his discussions with 300 Catholics after they attended Mass at various churches. Noting the apathy at Mass, he asked these questions and got the following answers:

“Did you think the priest gave a good sermon today?” 100 percent answered, Yes. “Can you tell us what the sermon was about?” 82 percent could not.

“Can you tell us what the first or second readings were about?” None could.

“Can you tell us what the gospel was about?” 80 percent could not.

“Did you know anyone in church today well enough to speak to?” 98 percent did not.

“Do you read the Bible regularly?” None did. “Would you be interested in knowing more about the Bible?” 98 percent said, Yes. “Would you attend a Bible study before Mass or in the evening if such were available?” 94 percent said, No.

Walker concluded with this observation to fellow Catholics: “See you in church for 45 minutes next Sunday. Unless you have become a convert to a group that makes you a part of it.”

“The Good Old Days”?

● A German newspaper says that the world is becoming so filled with trouble and so ungovernable that the period of time we are entering will make the one that included the two world wars seem like “the good old days.”

In a series of articles entitled “Is the World Becoming Ungovernable?” the publication “Welt am Sonntag” (The World on Sunday) said: “We have shot a man to the moon and sent vehicles to other stars, have plunged into the depths of the ocean, and are at the point of creating artificial life; we can split the atom and destroy mankind. But we are no longer quite sure what is ‘good’ and what is ‘bad.’ . . . In any case the world is becoming scarcely governable by methods we would consider acceptable. That does not mean it will stop revolving. But it does mean that a period of upheaval has begun in comparison to which this century’s first 80 years including its two world wars will be the good old days.”

Jesus accurately foretold the conditions that we see in our time, and that these troubles will lead to a “great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again.” (Matt. 24:21) At that time God will take over all of earth’s affairs by means of the heavenly kingdom for which Christians have long prayed. That will pave the way for a new order in which “righteousness is to dwell.”​—Dan. 2:44; Matt. 6:9, 10; 2 Pet. 3:13.

Problem of Married Priests

● When the Vatican announced that Anglican clergymen could be ordained as Catholic priests, it pleased Anglicans who had defected from the Episcopal Church. One reason why is that the Vatican decision permitted married Anglican clergymen who convert to Catholicism to be ordained as Catholic clergy and remain married, if they qualify in other respects. Single Anglican clergy converting will have to remain celibate, and no married priest can become a bishop.

However, the decision has caused problems. Many Catholics feel that it is unfair, or at least inconsistent, to accommodate married Anglican priests but not Catholic priests who want to marry and remain in the priesthood. They point to the growing shortage of priests, and cite widespread opposition to mandatory celibacy as one of the main reasons for the shortage.

Yet, need there be any problem? No, for God’s Word says, according to the Catholic “Knox” Bible: “A bishop, then, must be one with whom no fault can be found; faithful to one wife, . . . one who is a good head to his own family, and keeps his children in order.” (1 Tim. 3:2, 4) Thus, the Bible authorizes marriage and the raising of children even for “bishops.” Can any human laws contrary to God’s clearly stated Word have his blessing?

“Bearing Fruit in Every Good Work”

DUE to following the Scriptural injunctions highlighted in the previous two articles Jehovah’s Witnesses have indeed been “bearing fruit in every good work.” (Col. 1:10) Not only do they zealously preach and teach, but they also report their activities for the enjoyment of all other Kingdom proclaimers.

In doing so they have good Scriptural precedents. For example, at Acts 2:41 we read that, as a result of the apostle Peter’s stirring discourse, as well as the preaching of other disciples, “on that day about three thousand souls were added.” Then, a short time later, further zealous preaching resulted in the number of disciples becoming “about five thousand.” (Acts 4:4) And when new Christian converts were baptized at Ephesus, the Bible account says: “All together, there were about twelve men.”​—Acts 19:2-7.

ENCOURAGING INCREASES

The 1980 service year for Jehovah’s Witnesses, which began September 1, 1979, and ended August 31, 1980, has indeed been a good one. Worldwide there has been an overall increase of 3.7 percent in the number of those preaching the Kingdom message. It is indeed heartwarming to see how country after country showed increases, whereas last year they showed decreases. For example, last year the work in Paraguay had an 11-percent decrease, doubtless due to increased legal difficulties. Well, this year the work there showed a 13-percent increase, more than compensating for last year’s decrease. In the Philippines, after having a decrease for several years, they had an increase of 2 percent. Korea last year had a 1-percent decrease but this year had a 6-percent increase. Uruguay went from a 2-percent decrease last year to an increase of 9 percent this year.

Many other lands had better increases than last year. Thus, in Bolivia there was a 1-percent increase last year, but this year there was a 7-percent increase. The United States last year also had a 1-percent increase, but this year the increase was 4 percent. Last year Jamaica similarly had a 1-percent increase but this year saw an 11-percent increase. Venezuela, which last year reported a 3-percent increase, this year reported one of 9 percent. Japan, which last year had a phenomenal 10-percent increase, bettered it this year with an 11-percent increase.

In Belgium the Italian Witnesses are demonstrating noteworthy zeal and having remarkable results. There are now 31 Italian congregations there with a total of 2,500 Witnesses. This means that one out of every 100 Italians in Belgium is now a Witness. In fact, a Witness seldom finds an Italian who does not have either a neighbor, a friend or a relative who is a Witness.

EXPERIENCES FROM THE FIELD

Especially refreshing are the reports of experiences had while the Witnesses engage in the preaching work. In Ireland the convention badges worn by the Witnesses attracted the attention of six alcoholics who were living in shacks in a park. One of these showed real interest and obtained the book Life Does Have a Purpose. Further Bible discussions with him resulted in his quitting the use of alcohol altogether.

Getting familiar with Bible principles, this man saw the need of working and so got a job, at the same time moving out of the park and renting a flat. His appearance changed dramatically as he shortened his hair and bought himself a suit. When he appeared in court, for an offense committed before he learned the truth, he looked so respectable that the judge gave him a suspended sentence and commended him on his appearance.

While attending the “Divine Love” Convention of the Witnesses in Dublin, the former alcoholic called on his relatives, who had previously forbidden him to enter their homes. They could hardly believe their eyes and found it difficult to believe that he was the same person. He now regularly attends Witness meetings and keeps preaching to policemen, court officials and men on his job.

From a Witness in Argentina comes this experience. “I was going from house to house and a man asked me if I was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I at first hesitated because I was not certain as to his motive, since the work here suffers from legal restrictions. But upon learning that I was one of them he asked that I study the Bible with him. This was arranged. In fact, I returned the same day and we started a Bible study using the book The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life. In one week he had read this Bible study aid through and was beginning to read the Bible. I asked him why he wanted to study the Bible with me, and he said it was because of the great change a neighboring couple had made in their lives. They had been about to separate because they could not get along with each other. They began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses, and what a change took place in their lives! Now they are getting along fine. This man decided at once to change his religion, and now he is teaching his children what he is learning.”

“Bearing fruit in every good work” also includes showing love to fellow Christians. A brother in Europe read the story in the April 15, 1978, issue of the Watchtower magazine that told of a Panamanian Witness who had lost both of his hands. He wrote the Society’s branch office, stating that he would like to help the crippled brother get mechanical hands, and that he would defray all the costs. Arrangements were made for this to be done in Mexico. The crippled brother was happily received by the brothers there. Now he has returned home, and imagine his joy in being able to take up a pencil in one “hand” and write his name, something he had not been able to do for more than 30 years!

A letter of encouragement for the work Jehovah’s Witnesses are doing was received by the Watch Tower Society’s Austrian branch office. It read:

“I have deliberated for a long time whether I should write this letter or not. I know that you go from house to house in order to bring to the people the ‘good news.’ I could very well imagine that this is not always a satisfying work, to be confronted day by day with hardened persons and not to lose your zeal and friendliness. Some of you might think that people are not thankful, and therefore I would like to thank you, that you have sent someone to me. If it would not have been for your preaching activity I would have walked, without any question of a doubt, the broad road. [Matt. 7:13, 14] However, because of you I have received a real opportunity to get to know the will of God. Therefore I would like to say this one thing: A love gained and sincere thankfulness counts for a thousand closed doors. With great admiration for your work.”

YOUNGSTERS BEAR FRUIT

That little children can also bear fruit to God’s praise the following experiences from the island of Jamaica show: A father went to pick up his five-year-old boy after school. Not being able to find him, the father decided he would just wait and let the youngster find him. After a while he noticed a crowd of children gathered around and wondered what they were doing. The father investigated and found his youngster in their midst preaching to them with his copy of My Book of Bible Stories.

A young Witness girl, upon finding a dollar bill at school, turned it over to the teacher. Shortly after that some money was stolen and the teacher warned that the entire class would be punished if the money was not returned; all, that is, except the Witness girl, for the teacher knew that the Witness child would not have been the one who took the money.

LEGAL VICTORIES

There are also other aspects to this “bearing fruit in every good work.” The apostle Paul wrote his beloved congregation at Philippi: “It is altogether right for me to think this regarding all of you, on account of my having you in my heart, all of you being sharers with me in the undeserved kindness, both in my prison bonds and in the defending and legally establishing of the good news.” (Phil. 1:7) Some of the legal victories have doubtless also resulted because Jehovah’s Witnesses heed the admonition of the apostle Paul found at 1 Timothy 2:1, 2: “I therefore exhort, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, offerings of thanks, be made concerning all sorts of men, concerning kings and all those who are in high station; in order that we may go on leading a calm and quiet life with full godly devotion and seriousness.”

Thus a letter was received from Bangui, Central African Republic, dated October 1, 1979. It told that on September 27 the state radio had announced publicly that the ban of August 19, 1976, against Jehovah’s Witnesses was annulled, and that they had authorization again to preach freely throughout all the territory of Central African Republic. In particular was this grounds for rejoicing, as this decree was issued by a government only one week old.

In April of 1980 the work of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Zaïre was accorded legal recognition by the government. About a month before that Jehovah’s Witnesses gained a signal legal victory in Turkey. The previous year had seen 42 of the Witnesses acquitted of the charge of subversion and violation of the Law of Laicism (Secular Rule). The case was appealed by the attorney general and so went to the Turkish Supreme Appeal Court. It ruled in favor of the Witnesses. Because it is the highest court in Turkey, all other courts there are bound by its decision. Among other things, it stated:

“If one day the things occur which the accused ones believe and God rule will be established over the world, a punishment of the accused ones, because of such belief, will not prevent such events. But if their expectation is just a fancy idea and an empty belief, then their beliefs can in no way cause harm to our laical order of the State.” Certainly a wise decision, which reminds one of what Gamaliel said about the early Christians and their teachings, as recorded at Acts 5:34-40.

All such reports and experiences are indeed as refreshing as “cold water upon a tired soul.” (Prov. 25:25) They also show that Jehovah is true to his promise, that if we bring all our “tenth parts,” so to speak, into his house of worship he will richly bless us. (Mal. 3:10) May all dedicated Christians likewise exert themselves, bearing in mind that “he that sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.”​—2 Cor. 9:6.

[Chart on page 26-29]

1980 SERVICE YEAR REPORT OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES WORLDWIDE

(See bound volume)

Questions From Readers

● How is the “breath of life” mentioned at Genesis 2:7 related to the “spirit” of man mentioned elsewhere in the Bible?

Genesis 2:7 thus describes the creation of the first man, Adam: “And Jehovah God proceeded to form the man out of dust from the ground and to blow into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man came to be a living soul.” Pointedly it can be said, the Scriptures show that in ‘blowing into Adam the breath of life’ God gave the formed body both life force (or, spirit) and the breath or breathing needed to sustain life.

We can better appreciate this conclusion by first noting from the Bible some other details about “spirit.”

The Hebrew word that is often translated “spirit” is ruʹahh. It can convey a number of distinct meanings, depending on how it is used and on the context. For example, in some cases ruʹahh denotes an invisible movement of air and so can be rendered “wind.” (Ex. 10:13; Zech. 2:6) Also, the word can be used for a “spirit” person, an invisible being such as an angel, or even for God. (1 Ki. 22:21, 22) And ruʹahh can designate God’s invisible active force (holy spirit), as at Psalm 104:30, which mentions the “spirit,” or active force, that Jehovah God employs in creating.

However, Psalm 104:29 illustrates another meaning of ruʹahh​—life force. We read: “If you [God] take away their spirit, they expire, and back to their dust they go.” Yes, as this and many other texts show, both humans and animals have an impersonal life force, or spirit, that is present in every living body cell. The Bible shows that without this vitalizing spirit a human or an animal is dead.​—Eccl. 3:19; 9:10; Ps. 146:4.

You have that spirit of life, or life force. How can you sustain it? Well, you need to eat, drink and rest. More immediately vital, though, you need to take in oxygen, to breathe, for if you stopped breathing for just a few minutes you would die. Actually, breathing is the prime visible evidence that a person is alive or has the spirit of life in him. Thus the Bible closely connects, or even puts in parallel, “breath” (Hebrew, n^esha·mahʹ) and “spirit” (ruʹahh). Genesis 7:22, for instance, says about the men and the animals that died in the Flood: “Everything in which the breath [n^esha·mahʹ] of the force [or, spirit, ruʹahh] of life was active in its nostrils . . . died.”​—Compare Isaiah 42:5; Job 27:3-5.

Hence, what happened when God created Adam?

First Jehovah made a human body. But it was lifeless or dead. What did it need to become alive and to be a living soul? A simple blast of air or breath into the dead lungs would not be enough, no more than if we tried artificial breathing into the lungs of a long-dead corpse. For that newly created body to be and continue alive, both the spark or spirit of life and breathing were needed.

Consequently, when Genesis 2:7 says that Jehovah blew into the body “the breath of life” it must indicate, in that case, more than just breath or air moving into lungs. It was the “breath of life.” Yes, at the same time God must have provided Adam with the “spirit” or spark of life and the breath needed to keep him alive.

What happens, though, when a person dies? He stops breathing as a result. Soon the spark of life, or life force, in his cells ceases. He is then beyond the help of artificial respiration. Ecclesiastes 12:7 says: “The dust [of his body] returns to the earth just as it happened to be and the spirit itself returns to the true God who gave it.”

It is not a matter of an invisible immortal soul or anything else literally going out of the body, traveling to heaven and being received by God. It simply means that if that dead person is ever to live again, this will be up to God. Jehovah is the One who can remember and resurrect him​—forming a body for him and putting the spirit of life in it.

“This Book Captivated Me”

Last year letters like this one were received: “I would like to express my appreciation for the ‘1980 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses.’ This book captivated me and held my attention during the two days it took to read it. The experiences were faith-strengthening, especially for a teenager like myself, and instilled in me the urge to pioneer [become a Christian missionary] as did so many written about in the book. Surely we can see the blessings these pioneers had in the proclamation of God’s Word.”

The 384-page “1981 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses” contains the same kind of exciting, faith-strengthening experiences. It tells of stalwart men and women who left family, friends and homeland to bring Bible truths to remote peoples. Learn of the opposition, superstitions and other obstacles that were overcome to bring the good news of God’s kingdom to peoples in the Ivory Coast, Upper Volta, El Salvador and New Zealand. Send for your copy. Only $1 (U.S.), postpaid.

Please send me the “1981 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses”; I enclose $1 (U.S.).