The Watchtower — February 1, 1986

The Beasts of the Apocalypse​—Why Read About Them?

APOCALYPSE! That is one of the striking names given to the last book of the Bible. It is also called the book of Revelation. The book is full of vivid word pictures, outstanding among which are those of a dragon and of three wild beasts. Some find these beasts frightening. Others pass them off as the imaginings of an old man. Why, then, should you read about the beasts of the Apocalypse? Because your happiness is involved.

True, the apostle John was an old man when he wrote the book of Revelation almost 1,900 years ago. Does that mean, though, that the beasts it describes were hallucinations of a senile mind? No, and John was not the first old man to have such visions. A man named Daniel also saw visions of beasts in his old age, and these visions proved to be accurate prophecies of changes in human government. (Daniel, chapters 7 and 8) Further, Jesus Christ himself viewed Daniel as divinely inspired, calling him a prophet and quoting his writings.​—Matthew 24:15.

Jesus indicated that his apostles would receive additional divine instruction after his death. (John 16:12, 13) And since many features of the book of Revelation have been fulfilled in a remarkable way, we can be sure that the apostle John’s visions of the beasts of the Apocalypse were also inspired by God.​—2 Timothy 3:16.

The introduction to the book of Revelation says: “A Revelation by Jesus Christ, which God gave him . . . And he sent forth his angel and presented it in signs through him to his slave John.” (Revelation 1:1) Hence, the images in the book of Revelation, including those of its beasts, are symbolic, not literal. There is no need to fear reading about them. These symbolic beasts provide Christians with vital knowledge, enabling them to preserve their relationship with God. Thus, the apostle John could write: “Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and who observe the things written in it; for the appointed time is near.” Yes, your understanding these symbols can bring happiness now and in the future.​—Revelation 1:3.

The Beasts of the Apocalypse​—What Do They Mean?

ON SATURDAY, June 15, 1985, the afternoon sun shone brightly on the United Nations buildings in New York. As usual, a stream of visitors had come to see the impressive complex, and many could not hide their admiration for all the things they saw.

Thus far, though, the United Nations seems a long way from uniting the nations. As an official guide said that afternoon: “There have been 150 wars since World War II, with more than 20 million people killed. There is no world government yet. This is probably the closest thing to it.” Is world government, then, an elusive dream? Believe it or not, the answer can be found by examining the beasts of the Apocalypse.

Some Bible commentators see no prophetic meaning in the beasts of the book of Revelation. Rather, they apply them to events that took place while the apostle John was still alive. For example, The Catholic Encyclopedia, in its discussion of the beasts of the Apocalypse, says: “It was the custom of apocalyptic writers . . . to cast their visions into the form of prophecies and give them the appearance of being the work of an earlier date.”

But the apostle John declared: “By inspiration I came to be in the Lord’s day.” (Revelation 1:10) Yes, the book of Revelation focuses, not on past history, but on a future “day” when the Lord Jesus Christ would commence ruling from heaven. According to Revelation chapter 6, “the Lord’s day” is marked by world war, widespread food shortages, and deadly disease. The events witnessed on earth during this 20th century are convincing proof that we have been living in “the Lord’s day” since 1914.​—Revelation 6:1-8.a

In that historic year, Jesus Christ commenced his Kingdom rule. (Revelation 11:15, 18) The beasts of the Apocalypse must therefore be prominent after that date. Indeed, these beasts picture enemies of God that hinder people from looking to God’s Kingdom as the only arrangement that will satisfy mankind’s desire for peace. These enemies include a dragon and three wild beasts. Let us examine them in order of appearance.

The Great Dragon

“Look!” exclaimed John, “a great fiery-colored dragon, with seven heads and ten horns.” What does this great dragon picture? John himself explains that it represents none other than Satan the Devil. According to John’s vision, this dragon fiercely opposed the birth of God’s heavenly Kingdom in 1914. The result? “So down the great dragon was hurled, the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth; he was hurled down to the earth, and his angels were hurled down with him.”​—Revelation 12:3, 7-9.

John shows that this would have dire effects on mankind. “Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” (Revelation 12:12) Though confined to the vicinity of the earth, Satan is still bent on interfering with God’s established Kingdom. He does this by misleading mankind, using three wild beasts. Consider John’s description of the first of these.

The Sea Beast

“I saw a wild beast ascending out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads . . . Now the wild beast that I saw was like a leopard, but its feet were as those of a bear, and its mouth was as a lion’s mouth. And the dragon gave to the beast its power and its throne and great authority.”​—Revelation 13:1, 2.

What does this monstrous animal picture? Under inspiration, John provides an important clue: “Authority was given it over every tribe and people and tongue and nation.” (Revelation 13:7) What exercises authority over every person living on earth? Only one thing: the worldwide system of political rulership. Does this system really receive authority from “the dragon,” Satan? The Bible answers yes. For example, the apostle John said: “The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one.” No wonder Satan, while tempting Jesus in the wilderness, offered him authority over “all the kingdoms of the inhabited earth” and claimed: “[This authority] has been delivered to me.”​—1 John 5:19; Luke 4:5, 6.

What, though, is pictured by those seven heads? John was shown another monstrous beast that was virtually a mirror image of this one. It also had seven heads. The heads of the image were explained as representing “seven kings,” or world powers, of which “five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet arrived.” (Revelation 17:9, 10) Five world powers emerged in Bible history before John’s day: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece. Rome, the sixth, was still in power when John was alive.

What was the seventh head? Since the vision had to do with “the Lord’s day,” it must refer to the world power that stands in Rome’s position of power during these last days since 1914. History reveals this to be a dual world power composed of Britain and the United States of America. Before 1914, Britain had built the biggest empire the world had ever seen. During the 19th century, it had also formed strong diplomatic and trade ties with the United States. These two countries fought side by side during World Wars I and II, and their special relationship has continued until today. In 1982, United States President Reagan spoke to the British parliament about “our two countries’ remarkable friendship.” More recently, in February 1985, the British prime minister addressed the two houses of the United States Congress and said: “May our two kindred nations go forward together . . . firm of purpose, sharing in faith, . . . as we approach the third millennium of the Christian era.”

Because of its great influence on world affairs, the Anglo-American dual world power is pictured separately in the book of Revelation. How? By the second of the beasts of the Apocalypse.

The Land Beast

“And I saw another wild beast,” writes John, “ascending out of the earth, and it had two horns like a lamb, but it began speaking as a dragon.” By claiming to be Christian and nonaggressive, the Anglo-American world power puts on a lamblike appearance. But it has really acted like a dragon. How? By colonizing many nations and greedily exploiting the earth’s resources. Also, “it makes the earth and those who dwell in it worship the first wild beast, whose deathstroke got healed. And it . . . tells those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the wild beast.” (Revelation 13:3, 11-15) How was this fulfilled?

Satan’s worldwide political system suffered a “deathstroke” during the first world war. To prevent such a thing from happening again, Britain and America promoted “worship” of the political system. They did this by getting the nations “to make an image to the wild beast.” How did this happen?

Toward the end of the first world war, President Wilson of the United States began a crusade in favor of the newly proposed League of Nations. To this end, he told the delegates to the Paris Peace Conference in 1919: “Representatives of the United States support this great project for a League of Nations. We regard it as the keystone of the whole programme which expressed our purpose . . . in this war. . . . We are here to see, in short, that the very foundations of this war are swept away.”

After President Wilson finished his speech, none other than the British prime minister, Lloyd George, spoke: “I arise to second this resolution. After the noble speech of the President of the United States I feel that no observations are needed in order to commend this resolution to the Conference, and I . . . state how emphatically the people of the British Empire are behind this proposal.”

Later that year, at a meeting in London to support ratification of the League of Nations, a letter was read from the King of Great Britain: “We have won the war. That is a great achievement. But it is not enough. We fought to gain a lasting peace, and it is our supreme duty to take every measure to secure it. For that, nothing is more essential than a strong and enduring League of Nations. . . . I commend this cause to all citizens of the Empire, so that, with the help of all other men of good-will, a buttress and a sure defense of peace, to the glory of God . . . may be established.”

On January 16, 1920, the League of Nations was established with a membership of 42 countries. By 1934 it embraced 58 countries. The two-horned land beast had succeeded in getting the world “to make an image to the wild beast.” This image, or representation of Satan’s worldwide political system, is depicted by the final beast of the Apocalypse.

The Scarlet Beast

Here is John’s description of this final beast: “A scarlet-colored wild beast that was full of blasphemous names and that had seven heads and ten horns.” Regarding this beast, John was told: “The wild beast that you saw was, but is not, and yet is about to ascend out of the abyss, and it is to go off into destruction. . . . It is also itself an eighth king.” (Revelation 17:3, 8, 11) True to this description, the League of Nations tried to act like a world power on the world scene. However, it failed to prevent World War II, which started in 1939. The beast disappeared, as it were, into the abyss.

During World War II, the Anglo-American world power worked hard to revive that international organization. In 1941 the prime minister of Great Britain, Winston Churchill, held secret talks with President Franklin Roosevelt of the United States on board a ship in the Atlantic ocean. They made a joint declaration about “their hopes for a better future for the world” and “the establishment of a wider and permanent system of general security.” The following year in Washington, D.C., 26 nations subscribed to this Anglo-American proposal in what was called the “Declaration by United Nations.” This led to the creation of the United Nations organization on October 24, 1945. The scarlet beast had ascended out of the abyss with a new name. At present, 159 nations have joined this organization, which, they hope, will perpetuate the now-existing system of human political rulership.

All of this, however, leaves out of account the Messianic Kingdom of God, established in heaven in 1914. Every human on earth must choose between rulership by God and rulership by man. Soon, the scarlet beast, along with all human governments, will be involved in a battle with God’s installed King, Jesus Christ. The result? “Because he is Lord of lords and King of kings, the Lamb [Jesus Christ] will conquer them.” Yes, the scarlet beast together with the entire system of human government will ‘go off into destruction.’​—Revelation 17:11, 14; see also Daniel 2:44.

What a blessing it will then be not to have been misled by the dragon and his three beasts! Those who have proved themselves loyal subjects of God’s Kingdom will survive to become part of “a new earth.” God “will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:3, 4) Hence, subject yourself to God’s Kingdom, the only effective world government. Then you, too, will be in line to enjoy these everlasting blessings.

[Footnotes]

Jesus’ Life and Ministry

Second Miracle in Cana

WHEN Jesus returns to his home territory after an extended preaching campaign in Judea, it is not to rest up. Rather, he begins an even greater ministry in Galilee, the land where he grew up. But his disciples, instead of staying with him, return home to their families and their former occupations.

What message does Jesus begin preaching? This: “The kingdom of God has drawn near. Be repentant, you people, and have faith in the good news.” And the response? The Galileans receive Jesus. He is held in honor by all. However, this is not particularly due to his message but, rather, because many of them were at the Passover in Jerusalem months before and saw the remarkable signs he performed.

Jesus apparently begins his great Galilean ministry in Cana. Earlier, you will recall, on returning from Judea, he turned water into wine at a wedding feast there. On this second occasion the child of a government official of King Herod Antipas is very sick. Hearing that Jesus has come from Judea to Cana, the official travels all the way from his home in Capernaum to find him. Grief-stricken, he urges: ‘Please come immediately before my child dies.’

Jesus responds: ‘Go back home. Your son is healed!’ Herod’s official believes and starts on the long trip home. On the way he is met by his servants, who have hurried to tell him that all is well​—his son has recovered! ‘When did he get better?’ he asks.

‘Yesterday at 1:00 p.m.,’ they answer.

The official realizes that this is the very hour when Jesus said, ‘Your son is healed!’ After that, the man and his entire household become disciples of Christ.

Cana thus became favored as the place where, signaling his return from Judea, Jesus twice performed miracles. These, of course, are not the only miracles he performed up to this time, but they are significant because they marked his return to Galilee.

Jesus now heads home to Nazareth. What awaits him there? John 4:43-54; Mark 1:14, 15; Luke 4:14, 15.

◆ When Jesus returns to Galilee, what happens to his disciples, and how do people receive him?

◆ What miracle does Jesus perform, and how does it affect those involved?

◆ How is Cana thus favored by Jesus?

[Full-page picture on page 8]

Gladden Jehovah’s Heart by Keeping Integrity!

“Both if we live and if we die, we belong to Jehovah.”​—ROMANS 14:8.

1, 2. (a) Why are Jehovah’s Witnesses determined to maintain their integrity to God? (b) But what questions arise?

HOW well those words of the apostle Paul express the sentiments of the only true integrity keepers of this 20th century! If we are privileged to live on and see the present wicked system crumble before our very eyes, how delighted we will be! But if we must meet death in God’s service, so be it. In either case, we are determined to be loyal witnesses of our God, Jehovah. We will maintain our integrity to him. Why? Because live or die, we do indeed belong to Jehovah!

² What, though, is integrity? What demands does it make of us? And does our keeping integrity really make any difference to God?

Integrity and Its Demands

3. According to the Bible, keeping integrity means what?

³ In God’s Word, integrity denotes moral soundness and completeness, blamelessness and faultlessness. It means unswerving devotion to righteousness. In fact, integrity calls for unbreakable devotion to a person​—to Jehovah God. Yes, integrity keeping means continuing to do Jehovah’s sovereign will.

4. Who was the first integrity breaker, and what did he induce the original human pair to do?

⁴ The first integrity breaker was the spirit creature who led the original human pair into a rebellious course against their Creator. Adam and Eve had the opportunity to manifest their integrity to Jehovah by respecting God’s restriction regarding the tree of knowledge. But under the pressure of the Adversary’s appeal to selfishness, they gave way to disobedience. Their hearts did not prove faultless in Jehovah’s regulations, and they did not maintain integrity to him.​—Psalm 119:1, 80.

5. Satan’s rebellion raised what issue, and how is this proved by upright Job’s experiences?

⁵ Satan’s rebellion raised the issue of the rightness of God’s sovereignty over all His creatures, of Jehovah’s right to require their full obedience. Thus the question of man’s integrity to God’s sovereign will became a vital part of the issue of universal sovereignty. Proof of this is seen in the case of Jehovah’s servant Job, a blameless, upright, and God-fearing man. (Job 1:1) Job did not deviate from God’s proper way. Sexual immorality had no hold on him. He was never unjust in judgment or ungenerous toward the widow, the fatherless, or the poor. Instead of making material riches his confidence, Job trusted implicitly in the Most High. (Job 31:7-40) Yet the Devil alleged that Job served God for selfish reasons. Although Jehovah permitted Satan to divest Job of his possessions and even of his children, the Archdeceiver failed to crack that upright man’s integrity. Even painful disease and disparaging criticism from false comforters were unavailing, for Job proved to be an integrity keeper.​—Job 1:6–2:13; 27:5, 6; 31:6; 42:8, 9.

6. What is required of those who “belong to Jehovah”?

⁶ Humans thus have the inestimable privilege of contributing to the sanctification of God’s holy name. How? By maintaining integrity, showing that they loyally support Jehovah’s universal sovereignty. What, then, is required of those who “belong to Jehovah”? We must serve God with complete devotion, never forgetting that Jehovah is “a God exacting exclusive devotion.”​—Exodus 20:5.

We Can Gladden Jehovah’s Heart

7, 8. (a) Since we are imperfect, how can we maintain our integrity to God? (b) If we are integrity keepers, how will Proverbs 27:11 apply to us?

⁷ Since all of us are imperfect, we are unable to measure up perfectly to God’s righteous standards. Hence, our integrity keeping does not mean perfection of action or speech. Rather, it means wholeheartedness, or completeness of heart devotion. Thus, although David committed serious sins, he ‘walked with integrity of heart.’ (1 Kings 9:4) Accepting reproof, he corrected his way and thereby proved that his heart was filled with genuine love for Jehovah. (Psalm 26:1-12) We, too, can display such love, acting ‘according to integrity of heart.’​—Psalm 78:72.

⁸ An integrity-keeping course is possible because we have deep faith in Jehovah God and trust implicitly in him and in his power to save us. (Psalm 25:21; 41:12) It is not easy to maintain our integrity, for Satan the Devil​—Jehovah’s greatest enemy, and ours—​is blinding the minds of unbelievers and is “misleading the entire inhabited earth.” (Revelation 12:9; 2 Corinthians 4:4) But, like Job, we can be integrity keepers. Imperfect though we are, we can thus gladden the heart of our loving God. As Proverbs 27:11 puts it: “Be wise, my son, and make my heart rejoice, that I may make a reply to him that is taunting me.” Happily, as Jehovah’s loyal servants, we can provide him with an effective reply to his taunting Adversary. So our integrity keeping really does make a difference. As those who maintain integrity, we can gladden the heart of Jehovah. And what joy this brings us!

A Long Line of Integrity Keepers

9. Who were some of the great “cloud” of integrity-keeping witnesses of Jehovah, and what tests of integrity did they endure?

⁹ Actually, Jehovah’s Witnesses today are part of a long line of integrity keepers. It stretches all the way back to faithful Abel and includes such men and women as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, and Samuel. The integrity keepers Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to worship the image set up by the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar and were cast into a superheated furnace, apparently were alluded to as those who “stayed the force of fire.” Other pre-Christian witnesses of Jehovah were ‘mocked, beaten, imprisoned, stoned, tried, sawn asunder, slaughtered with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, while suffering tribulation and ill-treatment.’ Surely we agree with Paul, who declared: “The world was not worthy of them.” How thrilling it is to be surrounded by such a great “cloud” of integrity-keeping witnesses!​—Hebrews 11:1–12:1; see also Daniel, chapter 3.

10. How did the apostle Paul gladden Jehovah’s heart?

¹⁰ With God-given courage and strength, the apostle Paul endured imprisonment, beatings, shipwreck, many dangers, sleepless nights, hunger, thirst, cold, nakedness, and “near-deaths often.” (2 Corinthians 11:23-27) He underwent such hardships for the sake of the ministry, and in all of this he gladdened Jehovah’s heart as a valiant integrity keeper. So can we.

11. As to integrity, what example did Jesus Christ set?

¹¹ Outstanding among integrity keepers is “the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith,” Jesus Christ. When tempted in the wilderness by the Devil, Jesus clung to his integrity, finally declaring: “Go away, Satan! For it is written, ‘It is Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service.’” Clearly powerless in the face of such God-given determination, the Devil left Jesus. That was not Satan’s last assault upon Jesus, but the Devil was powerless to break the integrity of God’s Son. ‘For the joy set before him Jesus endured a torture stake,’ never becoming an integrity breaker. May we ever follow his sterling example and gladden Jehovah’s heart as integrity keepers.​—Hebrews 12:2, 3; Matthew 4:1-11.

12, 13. What tests of integrity were early Christians able to face successfully?

¹² Jesus told his disciples: “You will be objects of hatred by all people on account of my name.” (Matthew 10:22) How true that has always been for genuine Christians! In his book Christianity and the Roman Government, E. G. Hardy wrote: “It appears conclusively, both from the letter of Pliny and the rescript of Trajan, that the Christians could be punished for the nomen [name] alone, or the mere profession of Christianity, apart from the specification or proof of definite crimes.”

¹³ What tests of integrity those early Christians were able to face successfully with God-given strength! For example, concerning them it has been stated: “Sometimes they were tortured and thrown to hungry wild beasts in the arena to amuse the populace.” Despite such sufferings, however, it has been noted that “persecution served only to strengthen their faith and to bring many converts to their cause.” (From the Old World to the New, by Eugene A. Colligan and Maxwell F. Littwin, 1932, pages 90-1) It is the same with Jehovah’s integrity-keeping witnesses in this 20th century. The Devil’s agents have proved to be no match for them.

14, 15. Who are the “two witnesses,” and what did they experience in 1918 and 1919?

¹⁴ Consider what Jehovah’s anointed servants, the figurative “two witnesses,” experienced in 1918 and 1919, when their enemies ‘framed trouble by decree.’ (Revelation 11:3, 7-10; Psalm 94:20) J. F. Rutherford (then president of the Watch Tower Society) and seven associates were unjustly imprisoned. At that time, the “two witnesses” were killed as far as their prophesying was concerned, and their foes rejoiced. In his book Preachers Present Arms, Ray H. Abrams observed: “An analysis of the whole case [involving Rutherford and his associates] leads to the conclusion that the churches and the clergy were originally behind the movement to stamp out [the Bible Students]. . . . When the news of the twenty-year sentences reached the editors of the religious press, practically every one of these publications, great and small, rejoiced over the event. I have been unable to discover any words of sympathy in any of the orthodox religious journals.”

¹⁵ In time, however, the eight imprisoned Bible Students were released and completely exonerated, much to the chagrin of Satan and his dupes. Enlivened by God’s spirit, the “two witnesses,” that little army of anointed ones, stood upon their feet once again as Kingdom proclaimers. (Revelation 11:11) And Jehovah’s enemies have been fighting a losing battle against such integrity keepers ever since.

16. How did one young integrity keeper express himself?

¹⁶ To illustrate: Consider the courageous words one young man penned to his family as he awaited death at the hands of Nazi persecutors. He wrote: “It is already past midnight. I still have time to change my mind. Ah! could I be happy again in this world after I had denied our Lord? Surely not! But now you have the assurance that I leave this world in happiness and peace.” Does that sound like a weak, cowardly, whipped integrity breaker? Of course not!

17. Arrests of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Soviet Union had what effect on their Kingdom-preaching activities?

¹⁷ Attempts to break the integrity of Jehovah’s servants have continued. For example, in his book Religion in the Soviet Union, journalist Walter Kolarz told of mass arrests of Jehovah’s Witnesses early in 1951 and stated: “The Witnesses themselves estimate that 7,000 persons altogether were deported, to the Urals, Siberia, the Far North (Vorkuta) and Kazakhstan.” He added: “This was not the end of the ‘Witnesses’ in Russia, but only the beginning of a new chapter in their proselytising activities. They even tried to propagate their faith when they stopped at stations on their way into exile. In deporting them the Soviet Government could have done nothing better for the dissemination of their faith. Out of their village isolation the ‘Witnesses’ were brought into a wider world, even if this was only the terrible world of the concentration and slave labour camps.” There Jehovah’s servants found many who joyfully accepted the heartening Kingdom message.​—Compare Acts 11:19-21.

Like a Triumphant Army

18, 19. How is it possible to triumph as integrity keepers?

¹⁸ Persecution of God’s people continues to this day. So how is it possible for Jehovah’s Witnesses to triumph as integrity keepers? We can do so because we obey God’s Word, and we ‘have our perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong.’ As loyal witnesses of Jehovah, we are ‘not fashioned after this system of things but have been transformed by making our minds over.’ We joyfully do what is pleasing to Jehovah, and he gives us victory over our foes, demon and human.​—Hebrews 5:12-14; Romans 12:1, 2.

¹⁹ We who “belong to Jehovah” may be likened to a triumphant army. Of course, ours is spiritual warfare, and we “go on acquiring power in the Lord and in the mightiness of his strength.” We have on the complete suit of spiritual armor from God, and his holy spirit backs us up. That is why we are “able to stand firm against the machinations of the Devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-20; 2 Corinthians 10:3, 4) Yes, and that is why we will continue to triumph as integrity keepers.

20. What help and assurance do we have as we work to maintain our integrity?

²⁰ We surely are an unusual military force. Why, among us even “the women telling the good news are a large army”! (Psalm 68:11) Although we face formidable foes, ‘there are many more with us than there are with them.’ (2 Kings 6:16) The angels are with us as we declare the good news to earth’s inhabitants. (Revelation 14:6) And as integrity keepers, we have the confidence that ‘no weapon formed against us will succeed.’​—Isaiah 54:17.

21. Despite the persecution we experience, what continues?

²¹ Unquestionably, the battle lines have been drawn. The forces of Satan are determined to stop our witness work. Therefore, it remains for us to “go on waging the fine warfare.” (1 Timothy 1:18) With the glorified Jesus Christ as our Commander and Leader, let each one of us serve “as a fine soldier of Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 2:3, 4) Although we are buffeted on every side, we must​—and will, by God’s undeserved kindness—​stand firm as integrity keepers. Our faces are radiant as we see increase after increase. Greater and greater numbers of the ‘desirable things of the nations’ are coming in and filling Jehovah’s house with glory. (Haggai 2:7) Despite persecution, imprisonments, beatings, the banning of our work in various lands, and intense efforts to still our lips, the grand disciple-making work continues and gains momentum.​—Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.

22. As those belonging to Jehovah, what should we do?

²² As the volume of praise to Jehovah goes on increasing, this is a time of decision for everyone on earth. How privileged we are to spread the good news and teach those who are embracing true worship! Therefore, as the “great crowd” swells, may we carry on as valiant servants of the Most High God. (Revelation 7:9) ‘Live or die, we belong to Jehovah.’ So let us pursue down toward the goal of life, ever thankful for our grand privilege of gladdening Jehovah’s heart by keeping integrity!

Can You Answer?

◻ What is integrity?

◻ What demands does integrity keeping place upon Jehovah’s people?

◻ How can it be shown that our keeping integrity makes a difference to God?

◻ In what ways did some in the past show themselves to be integrity keepers?

◻ How is it possible for Jehovah’s Witnesses to be integrity keepers today?

[Picture on page 13]

Jehovah’s servants today are part of a long line of his integrity-keeping witnesses. Are you among them?

Enoch

Sarah

Jephthah

Paul

Comfort for Integrity Keepers

“Because of my integrity you have upheld me.”​—PSALM 41:12.

1. Why do Jehovah’s people need comfort?

JEHOVAH’S integrity-keeping witnesses need comfort because they are objects of persecution. Of course, they should expect such trials, for Jesus Christ told his followers: “A slave is not greater than his master. If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” (John 15:20) Especially now are Jehovah’s people in need of comfort. Why? Because the original integrity breaker, Satan the Devil, has been cast down to the vicinity of the earth, and his time is short. Hence, he is making his last stand as a fighter against God and His servants.​—Revelation 12:7-9, 17.

2. How do Christians feel about the sufferings of fellow believers?

² As servants of Jehovah, we fervently pray for our brothers and sisters who must work under ban or are threatened and mistreated by persecutors. (Acts 12:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:4) Our commendation goes to Christians who faithfully endure reproaches from apostates and others. (Matthew 5:11) We have loving concern for fellow believers opposed by relatives or living in religiously divided households. (Matthew 10:34-36) And our heartfelt sympathy is with integrity keepers suffering infirmities and prolonged illness. But why all this suffering? And what comfort is there for men and women of integrity?

Remember the Reason and the Refuge

3. Satan uses persecution in an effort to do what?

³ Whether by human or by demonic means, the Devil is seeking to “devour” Christians. (1 Peter 5:8) Yes, Satan uses persecution and other difficulties in attempting to destroy our relationship with Jehovah God, to make us disloyal integrity breakers. But in all of this, are we defenseless? No indeed!

4. When facing persecution and other adversities, of what can integrity keepers be sure?

⁴ Jehovah will be our Refuge if we prayerfully seek his help. When beset by persecution and other adversities, we can plead with him as did the psalmist David: “Show me favor, O God, show me favor, for in you my soul has taken refuge; and in the shadow of your wings I take refuge until the adversities pass over.” (Psalm 57:1) As integrity keepers, we can be sure that, in time, relief will come from Jehovah, our Refuge. And we can be as confident as David was when he said in prayer to God: “Because of my integrity you have upheld me, and you will set me before your face to time indefinite.”​—Psalm 41:12.

5. What quality do persecuted Christians need, and what hope do we have?

⁵ Since trials may last for some time, however, we need to cultivate endurance. The apostle Paul urged Hebrew Christians to “keep on remembering the former days in which . . . [they] endured a great contest under sufferings.” He further wrote: “You have need of endurance, in order that, after you have done the will of God, you may receive the fulfillment of the promise.” (Hebrews 10:32-36) For anointed Christians, the fulfillment of God’s promise will bring the reward of immortal life in heaven. But for the “great crowd,” there is the prospect of eternal life in an earthly paradise. (Revelation 7:9; Luke 23:43) Indeed, salvation to eternal life is possible for all who endure to the end as integrity keepers.​—Mark 13:13.

6. Why do some among Jehovah’s Witnesses have a special need of endurance, and what help do they have?

⁶ For decades, Jehovah’s Witnesses in some lands have especially ‘had need of endurance.’ Why? Because they have had to carry on their sacred service in difficult territory or in the face of various hardships, including governmental bans. Perhaps you yourself have to endure poor health or family opposition to your Christian pursuits. Such trials would stop those relying on mere human strength, but they do not halt Jehovah’s Witnesses because their “help is from Jehovah, the Maker of heaven and earth.”​—Psalm 121:1-3.

7. (a) Trials that continue afford us what opportunity? (b) Why can we believe what Paul said at Philippians 4:13?

⁷ Some situations may have to be endured until the end of this system of things. But continuing trials afford us the opportunity to prove our integrity to God and to gladden his heart. (Proverbs 27:11) At the same time, Jehovah provides the strength needed to endure in faithfulness. The apostle Paul wrote: “For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.” (Philippians 4:13) You can believe those reassuring words, for they are constantly proving true in the case of “the entire association of your brothers in the world.”​—1 Peter 5:9, 10.

Integrity Keepers Encourage Us

8. Illustrate how integrity keepers in divided households may be blessed.

⁸ It is a source of great encouragement to see integrity being maintained by ‘the entire association of our brothers in the world.’ Some of them have been rewarded richly for keeping their integrity to Jehovah in divided households. For example, when a Bible study was started with a Catholic woman in Ireland, her husband manifested bitter opposition and threatened to divorce her. Nevertheless, she continued her study, and one day she gave her husband a copy of the book You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. He was impressed by its clarity, directness, and fine illustrations. Soon the husband was studying the Bible with the help of this book. He quit smoking, and shortly thereafter the couple resigned from the Catholic Church and destroyed their so-called holy pictures. Before long, the woman was baptized and was sharing in the auxiliary pioneer work, while her husband was making fine progress in the ministry. Such experiences can be of real encouragement to those in divided households who persevere as integrity keepers.​—1 Corinthians 7:12-16.

9. How can infirm integrity keepers help others?

⁹ Other integrity keepers have proved faithful despite infirmity. In Britain, one disabled Christian who must use a wheelchair nevertheless finds fulfillment in his ministry. He wrote: “Although I have been unemployable secularly since 1949, Jehovah has been pleased to use me all this time. So the years have passed quickly. I have learned that even a severely disabled person can be of great service to others. My wife and I have been a sort of anchor for various ones in the congregation. Because of our circumstances we are always here, always available.” Yes, let no infirm Christian be discouraged, for he or she can be a source of encouragement to others.

10. By not succumbing to persecution, how can integrity keepers help fellow believers?

¹⁰ Integrity keepers do not succumb to persecution. Imprisoned for maintaining Christian neutrality, one brother said: “Beatings . . . became a regular part of my life, increasing in number and severity. I was getting weaker day by day, as they often deprived me of food. Constantly I prayed to Jehovah, and I can say that he did not abandon me. The more they beat me, the less I felt it.” Though sentenced to over two years of imprisonment, this witness of Jehovah maintained his neutrality. (Isaiah 2:2-4; John 15:19) Many other integrity keepers have taken a similar stand. Surely, such integrity keeping provides an encouraging example that can move fellow believers to faithfulness.

Unfailing Comfort

11. What Scriptural assurance of comfort do Christians have?

¹¹ The foregoing are only a few of the countless experiences proving that Jehovah is with his faithful people. He is “the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation.” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4) Yes, “God is for us a refuge and strength, a help that is readily to be found during distresses.” (Psalm 46:1-3) How comforting to know that he will sustain us and our fellow believers in all our tribulations!

12. How did Paul’s integrity-keeping course affect fellow Christians?

¹² We can draw courage from seeing fellow worshipers of Jehovah endure as loyal Christians despite various hardships. That is what happened when others observed the faithfulness of the apostle Paul. He wrote: “My affairs have turned out for the advancement of the good news rather than otherwise, so that my bonds have become public knowledge . . . ; and most of the brothers in the Lord, feeling confidence by reason of my prison bonds, are showing all the more courage to speak the word of God fearlessly.”​—Philippians 1:12-14.

13. Our own integrity keeping can have what effect?

¹³ Yes, when we know that other witnesses of Jehovah are maintaining integrity to him in the face of persecution, we are strengthened to remain faithful. On the other hand, when we ourselves maintain integrity under test, we encourage others to speak God’s word fearlessly. And surely we can find satisfaction in knowing that our faithfulness is a source of encouragement and blessing to them.

14. What are two of the means by which Jehovah comforts us?

¹⁴ Jehovah sustains us by means of his holy spirit. In fact, as Peter wrote, ‘if we are being reproached for the name of Christ, we are happy, because the spirit of glory, even the spirit of God, is resting upon us.’ (1 Peter 4:12-16) God also comforts us and our suffering fellow believers by his response to our prayers. “Do not be anxious over anything,” wrote Paul, “but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6, 7) Do you have similar confidence in the “Hearer of prayer”?​—Psalm 65:2.

Drawing Comfort From God’s Word

15. How would you illustrate the truthfulness of Romans 15:4?

¹⁵ God’s sacred Word also is a source of great comfort. As the apostle Paul noted: “All the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) For instance, when we read about Israel’s miraculous deliverance from Egypt or the preservation of the Jews in Queen Esther’s day, does that not strengthen our confidence in Jehovah as a matchless Deliverer? What about the record of Job’s integrity keeping in the face of great adversity? Surely, this illustrates how Jehovah’s modern-day servants can endure sufferings in the strength that God supplies. “Comfort from the Scriptures” can indeed fill integrity keepers with hope and courage.

16. What comforting assurances are found at 1 Peter 5:6, 7 and 1 Corinthians 10:13?

¹⁶ But what if our problems make us feel depressed? Surely, comforting Scriptural assurances can make us feel secure in Jehovah’s care and can help to allay our depression. The apostle Peter wrote: “Humble yourselves . . . under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; while you throw all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6, 7) Yes, Jehovah “cares for you.” What a comforting thought! Nothing can happen that he does not see or cannot control. Moreover, Paul gave this assurance: “God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out in order for you to be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) As a person determined to be an integrity keeper, you can count on that!

17. What other provisions are there to bring us comfort?

¹⁷ Prayerful study of God’s Word and Christian publications provided by “the faithful and discreet slave” can bring comfort in times of stress. (Matthew 24:45-47; Psalm 119:105) So can sound Scriptural advice from kindly elders in the congregation. Among other things, they are called upon to “speak consolingly to the depressed souls, support the weak, be long-suffering toward all.”​—1 Thessalonians 5:14.

18. If we have little in a material way, what comfort is there for us?

¹⁸ But what comfort is there if we have little in a material way? It certainly is comforting to know that there will be fine housing, an abundance of food, and other material blessings in God’s New Order. (Psalm 72:16; 2 Peter 3:13; compare Isaiah 65:17-25.) But even now Christian living eliminates the squandering of money on harmful smoking, overindulgence in alcoholic beverages, gambling, and so forth. Money thus saved can be used to benefit one’s family. Following God’s Word can also help us to be content with less in a material way. Paul was, for he said: “To be sure, it is a means of great gain, this godly devotion along with self-sufficiency. For we have brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out. So, having sustenance and covering, we shall be content with these things.” (1 Timothy 6:6-8; Philippians 4:11, 12) Concentrating on our privileges in Jehovah’s service results in many blessings that make us rich indeed.​—Proverbs 10:22.

19. How can prolonged illness be borne?

¹⁹ Yet, what if we must endure prolonged illness? This can be borne with Jehovah’s help and comfort provided through his Word. For instance, the psalmist David said: “Happy is anyone acting with consideration toward the lowly one . . . Jehovah himself will sustain him upon a divan of illness.” (Psalm 41:1-3) This is not the time for miraculous cures. But Jehovah grants ailing Christians the wisdom and fortitude needed to deal with their illnesses as they put Kingdom interests first in life.​—Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

20. How can we cope with grief when a loved one dies?

²⁰ How can we cope with the grief experienced when a loved one dies? Comfort can be drawn from the Bible’s resurrection hope. (John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15) Thus, although we are saddened by a loved one’s death, we do “not sorrow just as the rest also do who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13) What comfort the resurrection hope brings integrity keepers!

Remain Confident in the God of Comfort

21. Persecution endured often results in what?

²¹ Be assured that Jehovah, “the God of all comfort,” will never abandon his dedicated and loyal people. (2 Corinthians 1:3; Psalm 94:14) It is also helpful to remember that persecution endured by Christians can honor, or glorify, God. Such treatment draws attention to his people and their Kingdom-preaching work, and this often results in greater increase in the number of Jehovah’s praisers.​—Compare Acts 8:4-8; 11:19-21.

22. As regards integrity, what should be our determination?

²² So, with God’s help, let us be determined not to yield to Satan’s schemes to break our integrity. Acting in faith, may we continue to trust in Jehovah. Let us never overlook the many ways in which he blesses, upholds, and comforts us as his servants. May we prove our devotion to him and to his righteous principles, upholding his sovereignty. Remember, too, that this is a very personal matter. Continue doing the divine will as you work with Jehovah’s organization in these momentous days. Rejoice in your privilege of gladdening Jehovah’s heart by remaining faithful to him, and never forget that he unfailingly provides comfort for all integrity keepers.

What Is Your Reply?

◻ Why do Jehovah’s servants especially need comfort?

◻ Why does Satan use persecution against Christians?

◻ How can integrity keepers encourage us?

◻ How can we draw comfort from God’s Word?

◻ Of what are we assured at 1 Peter 5:6, 7 and 1 Corinthians 10:13?

[Picture on page 16]

Satan seeks to devour Jehovah’s servants, but we are by no means defenseless

[Picture on page 18]

Jehovah answers the prayers of integrity keepers. Do you pray regularly?

Kingdom Proclaimers Report

Theocratic Expansion in Venezuela

FOR days the heat had been unusually oppressive. Passersby were amazed at seeing the workmen laboring under the blazing sun when everyone else would rather relax in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. Gradually, the framework of a new building began to emerge. In three and a half months, the men had completed a four-story structure​—the new addition to the branch building of the Watch Tower Society in La Victoria, Venezuela.

This was actually the second time the branch in Venezuela had been enlarged since it was opened in 1946, when there were only 13 Kingdom publishers in the country. By 1977 their number had grown to over 13,000. Consequently, a new branch building was completed and dedicated in La Victoria that year. Since then, the number of Witnesses in the country has more than doubled. It was time for expansion once again.

The new addition (rear right in the picture), with over 20,000 square feet (1,900 sq m) of floor space, more than doubles the total capacity at the branch. The driveway at the extreme right leads into the 15-car garage in the basement. The printery has been moved out of the 1977 building (the long structure in the center) to the ground floor of the new addition, where the maintenance and carpenter shops and some offices are also located. The rest of the new building makes up the living quarters for the Bethel family.

The new building is equipped with its own water-storage tank and emergency-power generator, as water shortages and power failures are frequent in this part of the world. And to take full advantage of the perennial sunshine and breezes, the laundry is located at the top of the building.

What do the local people think of the new construction? Though some lament the loss of the beautiful garden that once was there, many feel that the building adds to the respectable appearance of the neighborhood. A well-known architect, who heard so much about the construction that he came to see it for himself, told the brothers: “This is no doubt the best-made building in La Victoria.” Equally impressed was the municipal engineer, who gladly issued the occupancy permit and said: “It is an honor to give the permit to occupy a building like this one.”

The Witnesses in Venezuela rejoiced on April 21, 1985, when 15,802 of them gathered in nearby Valencia for the dedication, and 38,059 assembled in five other cities to hear the program over telephone tie lines. That attendance was far more than the total number of publishers in the country. They are grateful and happy for this divine provision to equip them better for thoroughly preaching the Kingdom good news before the end of this system comes.​—Matthew 24:14.

Jehovah’s Hand Has Been With Us

As told by Simon Kraker

“DAD, what kind of career should I follow?”

“Well, Simon, consider the matter carefully because I can’t make the decision for you.”

“Yes, Dad, but with your experience you’d know better!”

“Perhaps, Simon. There are many fields to consider, and they all seem attractive, but which one will make you the happiest?”

“All right, Dad. I’ve thought of music, ballet, acrobatics, medicine, and the priesthood. I have an interest in each.”

Now, what choice would you have made? What road would you have traveled? Back in the early 1920’s, something happened to my family that had a telling effect on my choice of career. Let me relate it to you.

My parents, Mary and Joseph, were both born in Austria, but they met and were married in the United States. Before emigrating to the United States, Dad had traveled extensively throughout Europe as a professional trumpet player. Therefore, he saw to it that all of his eight children had not only a good academic education but also a musical one. The violin became my contribution to the family orchestra.

As Roman Catholics, Mom and Dad wanted all of us to have a good religious upbringing. I remember the Roman Catholic Bible we had in our house. It was large, had a gold cross embossed on its thick cover, and was written in old German type. I had become familiar enough with it to regard the Bible highly as God’s Word.

In the early 1920’s, free Bible tracts were being given out by another religion in front of our Holy Trinity Church in the city of Cleveland, Ohio. All of us would take them home and compare them with our Bible. They were published by the Bible Students, as Jehovah’s Witnesses were then known. One tract that I particularly remember because it made Mom happy was on the subject of the condition of the dead. She had lost two of her sons in infancy. From the tract, she learned that they were not alive in limbo or suffering in purgatory or hell but were unconscious in the grave, waiting for the resurrection. (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; John 11:24, 25) What comfort that brought not only to Mom but to all of us!

Making a Choice

Scriptural truths were becoming clearer as German-speaking Bible Students (Bibelforscher) visited our home. As we absorbed more Bible knowledge, we found ourselves becoming further estranged from our Catholic heritage. This posed a dilemma for me. I had been named Simon at birth, Peter at baptism, and Joseph at confirmation. I had become an altar boy, had learned Latin prayers and Masses, and had performed various religious functions. My parents hoped that I might become a priest, and my own determination was to share more fully in religious life.

I was, however, finding myself less and less attracted to my former career hopes. It was no longer a question of how I could entertain people, become a famous gymnast, or practice medicine. Rather, what could I do to help others spiritually? No more did I see the Roman Catholic priesthood as my answer.

My parents’ interest and activity swung toward the ‘good news of God’s Kingdom’ as declared by the Bible Students, and so did mine. (Matthew 24:14) In 1924 Mom and Dad began to preach the “good news” from house to house, and I accompanied them. Two years later, when I was 12 years old, Dad came to realize that I could preach on my own. So he gave me a pocket Bible to use in my evangelizing work. Before I was graduated from high school in 1929, I made the decision to dedicate myself to God.

Theocratic Milestones

As I think back over the more than 60 years since my family began to share in Kingdom preaching, I realize that we have passed many milestones in the forward movement of God’s visible organization. For example, in 1925 The Watch Tower published the article “Birth of the Nation.” I was delighted to learn that Jehovah is gathering sincere individuals from all nations to be his people. That Scriptural point really impressed me! Why? Because in my neighborhood, prejudice against Jews and blacks then ran strong. But God’s nation is free of all divisive forces​—racial, political, commercial, military, and sectarian. (Acts 10:34, 35) How thrilling it was to read the explanation of the prophecy of Isaiah chapter 66 and see its fulfillment in my own day!

The 1928, Detroit, Michigan, convention was another theocratic landmark for our family. That was true for two reasons. It was the first convention my parents attended. And upon their return home, we children were deeply affected when their joyful enthusiasm about doing more in Jehovah’s service just bubbled over.​—Romans 12:11.

Then in 1931 God’s organization had thrilling news for us. We got a new name​—Jehovah’s Witnesses. What a unique privilege, to bear God’s name before men and angels!​—Isaiah 43:10-12.

I will never forget the year 1935, when the identity of the “other sheep” and the “great crowd” became clear. (John 10:16; Revelation 7:9) This helped many individuals​—myself included—​to take the step of getting baptized. Baptism had not been stressed in my earlier days in the truth. Since I had already dedicated my life to Jehovah God, I now saw that it was proper to symbolize that dedication by water baptism.

The year 1938 was one of theocratic reorganization. Before that time, there had been only one central meeting place of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Cleveland​—Engineer’s Auditorium, used for German, Polish, English, and other language groups. After 1938 God’s organization arranged for congregations to be established in various sections of the city. Dad and some of my brothers were appointed as servants in the congregation. My assignment was in the magazine department.

The year 1939 brought another historic event that helped solidify my faith in Jehovah and his visible organization. As war clouds hovered, The Watchtower published an article entitled “Neutrality.” From this article, I learned to appreciate that God’s people were to be at peace with everyone, even amid threats of war. Thankfully, this prepared me for the hard times I was about to face.

Also in 1939 I went to New York City for the first time. There I heard the second president of the Watch Tower Society, J. F. Rutherford, speak at Madison Square Garden. Religious enemies, about 500 strong, tried to break up that meeting with their catcalls as Brother Rutherford spoke. But all of this was to no avail. He held his ground to the end, and the audience responded with enthusiastic rounds of applause.

Close to my heart and still fresh in my mind is the 1942 international convention held in my hometown, Cleveland. The widely advertised public talk was “Peace​—Can It Last?” Scriptural evidence was presented to show that any future man-made peace could not last.

Faith Tested

It was at that time that my faith was tested over the issue of neutrality. I was a manager in the parts and accessory division of the General Motors automobile company. They had allowed me to work on a part-time basis, thereby enabling me to keep my activity as a minister of religion in first place. But with the storm of war raging and now involving the United States, would I share in the conflict or would I try to get an exemption due to my secular work? I chose neither. I was an ordained minister and had the legal right to be exempted from military service on that basis. However, the Selective Service Board disagreed.

The Board suggested: “You could go into the armed forces and serve there as a minister.” “No,” I replied. “My conscientious reason is that I am a minister of the gospel, and I have devoted my life to that work.”

“But you can do that in the army too.”

“No,” I said. “I can only serve my fellow humans with ‘good news’ as found in the Bible.”

My case went to a higher court. In Federal Court I pointed out that my father had fled Austria and come to the United States because of his religious convictions against bearing arms and being part of the military.

“But you would not need to fight,” said the judge. “With your background and training, you would make a fine chaplain, young man.”

“Your Honor, how could I do that? If I cannot conscientiously bear arms, how could I encourage another to do so?”

Prison Life

Despite the documented evidence of my being a minister of the gospel, in the fall of 1943 I was sentenced to five years in the federal penitentiary at Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. I was not the only Witness in Lewisburg, though, for there were about 50 other brothers there too. By the time I was released, the number had grown to about 200.

The prison sprawled over about a thousand acres (400 ha) of land. Within its confines were buildings that housed the more dangerous criminals, a farm camp for the trusted inmates, and a village where the warden, guards, and other prison personnel lived. Witnesses were usually assigned to the farm camp. My job was to drive the farm-camp prisoners to and from their work areas.

When I first arrived, our religious meetings and literature were not allowed. Yet we regularly received the Watchtower magazine. How was this possible? Some visitors traveling through the wooded sections of the grounds to the village and prison buildings would discreetly drop the magazines along the road in a paper bag. I or another brother would come along and find the bag and pass its contents on to the rest of the brothers. Another way we got literature was through the kindness of one guard who lived in the village. He would leave old newspapers on the porch of his house. When the time arrived to pick up the newspapers, quite often we would find our magazines in among the old papers. Later, the warden granted our request to hold regular meetings and receive Bible literature.

One day when I dropped off a work crew at the warden’s garden, I got a good scare. In my clothing, I had hidden the Society’s book The Truth Shall Make You Free. While the inmates were doing the trimming and cutting work, I sat in the truck and cautiously pulled out the book. But imagine my shock when the warden’s little daughter suddenly jumped up from behind me and said, “Boo! What are you reading?”

Since she caught me by surprise with literature that really should have been left in my cell, I told her that it was a book that explains the Bible. She became even more curious as I showed her one of the book’s pictures. It was of a man stooping down, unfastening his leg shackles. “Lots of people are like that,” I said. “They are shackled to false religious ideas, and Jesus wants to set them free because he said: ‘The truth shall make you free.’”​—John 8:32, King James Version.

The next day the child’s mother said: “Simon, my daughter told me all about the conversation you had with her concerning the Bible and the book you showed her. She was very impressed, and it sounded interesting to me too.” Happily, the surprising incident led to no unfavorable consequences.

I served less than half of my prison sentence. After my release in 1946, I quickly joined the ranks of the full-time pioneer ministers again.

Bethel Service

The Glad Nations Theocratic Assembly, held in Cleveland in 1946, was another important point in my life. It was there that I applied to come to Bethel​—full-time service at the Watchtower Society’s world headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.

Two representatives of the Society, Brothers Milton Henschel and Robert Morgan, gave a brief explanation of Bethel service and then interviewed those present. I approached them hesitantly. However, once the interview began, I found them to be very kind and down-to-earth.

“Why do you want to serve at Bethel?” one of the brothers asked.

“I’m doing all I can in Jehovah’s service as a pioneer,” I answered. “But if I can go to Bethel, I’m sure I can do more.”

“If you come to Bethel, you certainly will do more,” the other said.

He was right! Since my first day at Bethel, February 18, 1947, I have found service here most interesting and rewarding. I thank Jehovah every day that his hand guided me into this wholesome privilege of service.​—2 Thessalonians 3:5.

Evidences We Have Seen of God’s Spirit

After 45 years of singleness for the sake of the Kingdom, I found my “capable wife,” Grace Suiter, right here at Brooklyn Bethel. (Proverbs 31:10) She had come to Bethel from the Midwest in 1939, although she and her family learned the truth in California.a Since our marriage in 1959, we have found that Jehovah’s hand is with those who love and serve him faithfully.

In many ways my dear Grace and I come from similar backgrounds. We were both born in 1914, both of our families were seeking religious truth, and we both began actively sharing with our parents in door-to-door preaching at the same age​—12. In addition, as a married couple in Bethel service, what a joy it is to experience together the courageous initiative taken by God’s organization in pushing the work of witnessing “to the most distant part of the earth”!​—Acts 1:8.

Do we have any regrets for having come under God’s hand? Not Grace! “We haven’t become rich in worldly goods serving here at Bethel,” she says. “Yet our life has been rich in a more lasting way. Even though we have no natural children, we surely have a lot of spiritual ones.”

I have no regrets either! Our choice to praise Jehovah in full-time service has been a very good one. We have led a full life with a noble purpose, thanks to being “under the mighty hand of God.”​—1 Peter 5:6.

[Footnotes]

[Picture on page 23]

My parents, Joseph and Mary

[Picture on page 25]

Simon and his wife, Grace

Belshazzar​—Crown Prince or King?

BIBLE scholars have long argued over Belshazzar. According to the Bible book of Daniel, “Belshazzar the king” was ruler of Babylon, and he was having a great feast that fateful night in 539 B.C.E. when Cyrus the Persian overthrew the city. (Daniel 5:1) The problem is that only the Bible mentions Belshazzar’s name. Other early histories omit it and report that the ruler of Babylon at that time was Nabonidus. This was viewed by many as evidence that the book of Daniel was historically worthless and probably written some centuries after Babylon’s fall.

However, that judgment was premature. According to an article by Alan Millard in Biblical Archaeology Review (May/​June 1985), in 1854 an inscription was unearthed in Iraq containing a prayer for the long life and good health of Nabonidus and his eldest son. The name of this son? Belshazzar! So there was a Belshazzar in Babylon! Since 1854, many other inscriptions have been found to confirm this. However, none of those inscriptions call Belshazzar king. They refer to him as the king’s son or as crown prince. Hence, critics assert that the writer of Daniel was mistaken in using the expression “Belshazzar the king.”

Even in this, though, they are wrong. How do we know? For one thing, according to Alan Millard, legal documents have been unearthed from that time in which the parties swear by Nabonidus and by Belshazzar. Why is this significant? Because the established practice was for the parties to swear oaths by the gods and by the king. Swearing by Belshazzar is the only exception to this, so Belshazzar clearly had a special status. In fact, it appears that Belshazzar ruled alone in Babylon for many years while his father lived at the oasis of Teima in northern Arabia. During this time, according to a tablet now preserved in the British Museum, Nabonidus “entrusted the kingship to” Belshazzar.

Why then do official inscriptions call him “crown prince” while the book of Daniel uses the term “king”? An archaeological discovery in northern Syria offers an answer. In 1979 a life-size statue of the king of ancient Gozan was unearthed there. On its skirt were two inscriptions, one in Assyrian and the other in Aramaic. The two inscriptions, while nearly identical, had at least one interesting difference. The text in the language of the Assyrian overlords said that the ruler represented by the statue was “the governor of Gozan.” The text in Aramaic, the language of the local people, describes him as “king.”

Paralleling this, Alan Millard concludes that while official inscriptions referred to Belshazzar as crown prince, “it may have been considered quite in order for such unofficial records as the Book of Daniel to call Belshazzar ‘king.’ He acted as king, his father’s agent, although he may not have been legally king. The precise distinction would have been irrelevant and confusing in the story as related in Daniel.”

All this begs the question: If the book of Daniel really was written centuries after the fall of Babylon, how did its author know about Belshazzar, who had been overlooked by other historians? And why did he call him “king,” following a custom that was understood when Belshazzar was alive but forgotten in later centuries? Surely, the reference in the book of Daniel to “Belshazzar the king” is strong evidence that the book was in truth written by someone who lived in Babylon in the sixth century B.C.E.

“We Appreciate the Older Ones!”

“IS THERE not wisdom among the aged and understanding in length of days?” asked Job. (Job 12:12) Solomon similarly observed: “Gray-headedness is a crown of beauty when it is found in the way of righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:31) These words were spoken at a time when older ones were esteemed and respected. And the Bible repeatedly shows how younger ones in those days benefited from associating with the aged.

Ruth, for example, had years of opportunity to observe and ponder over the example set by her mother-in-law, Naomi. This association apparently resulted in Ruth’s gaining a desire to worship Jehovah. So when given a chance to separate from Naomi and return to her land of idol worshipers, Ruth loyally said: “Where you go I shall go, and where you spend the night I shall spend the night. Your people will be my people, and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16, 17) Yes, as a result of her friendship with Naomi, Ruth became “an excellent woman.”​—Ruth 3:11.

Timothy was another one who benefited from association with an older person. He spent many years traveling with the apostle Paul. And even when prison separated them, Timothy received letters from Paul that were an encouragement “to stir up like a fire the gift of God” that was in Timothy. (2 Timothy 1:6-8) So thoroughly did Timothy learn from Paul that when writing the Philippians, Paul explained that he ‘had no one else of a disposition like his [Timothy’s] who would genuinely care for the things pertaining to them.’​—Philippians 2:20.

Nowadays, though, respect for the aged has almost disappeared in some lands. Is it this way among Christians, however? Not at all. True Christians today still appreciate that older ones have much to offer by virtue of their faith, devotion, and experience in life. For example, one sister writes: “Whenever I feel under pressure from this system, I find myself looking around at older ones within the congregation, taking courage from their steadfastness.” A young brother, 34 years of age, similarly says of the faithful aged ones: “They have helped me in all areas of life. For example, I needed to know how to achieve balance. Well, a 72-year-old brother told me, ‘Make sure you do the things Jehovah wants you to do first. It is a constant fight. But balance comes as you seek first the Kingdom.’”

In another case, a brother 87 years old became seriously ill. An elder, along with an inactive brother, paid him a visit. Weeping, the inactive brother said, “You have been a good friend. I will miss you.” To which the aged man replied, “I will miss you too.” Still weeping, the inactive brother said, “I will see you in the New Order​—if it will come.” Though weak, our older brother made himself sit up, and he responded firmly: “It will come.” While the inactive one failed to respond to this encouragement, the old man’s faith touched the heart of the elder observing this. “His faith greatly assisted me,” he recalls.

Older brothers and sisters often draw from their experience in Christian living and offer sound and practical advice. “Pick up your little children and cuddle them,” advises one aged one, “for they will soon be older. Look after them first. They are your precious disciples.” “When pressures from this system come in on you or when Satan is testing you,” recommends another, “never give up the truth. Keep practicing it, for it will result in happiness for you.” One older couple who have served faithfully in one area of New Zealand for some 43 years give this practical counsel: “If you can, it is better to stay in one place, rather than moving around. The truth has a greater impact on the community, and it keeps you living up to it, thus making you stronger.”

True, many of our aged brothers and sisters cannot engage in the house-to-house work as younger ones can. Some are bedridden. Others suffer painful ailments. Said one elderly sister, “I do not mind growing old. It’s what age brings with it that I do not like.” Yet she still manages to display Christian zeal!

Are you taking the time to get to know your older brothers and sisters? Are you seeking to imitate the qualities they manifest, qualities that have been refined like gold through time and experience? Certainly, our older Christian brothers and sisters are a valuable resource if we but take the time to observe and speak with them. Said one younger Christian: “The faithful aged have been to me examples in commitment to the truth, genuine love, faith that is alive, compassion, and zeal for God’s service. To me their beauty is like trees in full blossom, and they are like a warm fire on a cold night.” Truly, we have reason to appreciate our older ones!

Jehovah’s Eye “Proved to Be Upon the Older Men”

ELDERS today often must make decisions that seem beyond the scope of their knowledge and experience. However, consider a situation that faced some Jewish elders in the days of Ezra.

Following the return of the Jewish remnant from Babylon, a 16-year-long period of inactivity set in. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah managed to shake the Jews out of their apathy, and the work of rebuilding Jehovah’s temple was resumed. Soon, though, this work was challenged by Persian officials. “Who put an order through to you to build this house?” asked the opposers.​—Ezra 5:1-3.

The reply to this inquiry was critical. If the elders allowed themselves to be intimidated, the temple restoration would abruptly come to a halt. If the elders antagonized these officials, an immediate ban on the work could be imposed. So the elders (doubtless led by Governor Zerubbabel and High Priest Joshua) phrased a tactful but effective reply. They reminded the officials of the long-forgotten decree of Cyrus that had granted the Jews royal permission to go forward with this work. Knowing the Persian policy of never altering stated law, these officials shrewdly chose to avoid opposing a royal decree. The work was thus allowed to continue until King Darius later gave his official go-ahead!​—Ezra 5:11-17; 6:6-12.

Was this astounding result due to human wisdom? On the contrary, Ezra’s account says that “the eye of their God proved to be upon the older men of the Jews.” (Ezra 5:5) Clearly, Jehovah directed both their reply and the favorable response from the Persian king. Christian elders today can likewise look to Jehovah for guidance and direction when facing difficult decisions or dealing with opposers. Assures Jehovah at Psalm 32:8: “I shall make you have insight and instruct you in the way you should go. I will give advice with my eye upon you.”

The 1986 “Divine Peace” District Convention

HOW fitting that the theme of our 1986 district conventions should be “Divine Peace”! Yes, Jehovah our God “is a God, not of disorder, but of peace.” He stands in striking contrast to “the god of this system of things,” Satan the Devil, who is a god of disorder, strife, and confusion.​—1 Corinthians 14:33; 2 Corinthians 4:4.

Most appropriately, Jehovah in his Word is repeatedly referred to as “the God of peace.” (Philippians 4:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:20) In his Word, peace is promised, counseled, and stressed from beginning to end, being mentioned some 250 times. Truly, Jehovah is “the God who gives peace” to his people.​—Romans 15:33; 16:20.

How important it is, therefore, that every one of his servants, yes, each one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, be a person of peace! This means, not just being peaceful, but ‘seeking peace and making it our pursuit,’ as the apostle Peter counsels us to do. (1 Peter 3:10, 11) That means that we must be “peacemakers,” as our Kingdom Interlinear renders Matthew 5:9.

It is not easy to be peacemakers, to work for peace, to try to preserve the peace. There are the weaknesses of imperfect human nature that tend to cause personality conflicts. As our Kingdom song (No. 213) puts it: “Disagreements sometimes arise; we’re imperfect, we realize.” This song goes on to counsel: “Quickly settling them is great gain. Unity we’ll maintain.” There are also the pressures of Satan’s world, together with all its allurements, working against our having “the peace of God that excels all thought.” (Philippians 4:7) And, of course, there are Satan and his demons, who do all in their power to disrupt our peace; we must contend against them.​—Ephesians 6:12.

In ancient times, God arranged that his people come together on special occasions so as to be spiritually built up and strengthened in their determination to obey Jehovah’s commands. Likewise today, among the many aids he has provided to help us to be peacemakers are our annual district conventions. We hear God’s Word expounded at these gatherings. For four days we are taught by our heavenly Father by means of discourses, interviews, demonstrations, and dramas. Yes, even our songs directly or indirectly exhort us to peace.

This year at our “Divine Peace” District Convention we will feel the spirit of brotherhood as we welcome one another. Seeing how all the various convention departments harmoniously function, we will truly get the spirit of the convention.

So let us come genuinely conscious of our spiritual need and prepared to take full advantage of the entire program, arriving on time to take in the very first session on Thursday afternoon and remaining until the very last song and prayer on Sunday afternoon.

Furthermore, should we not also strive to be consistent? In what ways? By being truly appreciative of the spiritual food provided. Many of us will have come at considerable expense in time and funds. So let us see to it that we are punctual and in good physical condition. That means that we should not overindulge in food or drink nor keep late hours. Rather, let us make certain that we use moderation and get to bed on time so as to be refreshed and fit to take in all the spiritual food that is being provided. While the program is on, let us be in our seats listening, not wandering around or engaging in conversation with some dear friend whom we might not have seen for some time. The time to talk to our friends is before and after the sessions. Yes, let us come fully determined to get really built up spiritually.

In ancient times God arranged that his people come together regularly on special occasions so as to be spiritually built up. And, truly, our annual district conventions are among the many aids today that Jehovah has provided to help us to be peacemakers.

Convention Locations

United States

June 12-15: AMARILLO, TX, Civic Center Coliseum, 3rd & Buchanan Sts. CICERO, IL, Sportsman’s Park Race Course, 3301 S. Laramie. FT. WORTH, TX, Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum, One Amon Carter Sq. GREENVILLE, SC, Greenville Memorial Auditorium, 300 E. North St. MIDLAND, TX, Chaparral Center, Midland College, 3600 N. Garfield. PONTIAC, MI, Silverdome, 1200 Featherstone. WEST PALM BEACH, FL, West Palm Beach Auditorium, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

June 19-22: BIRMINGHAM, AL, Civic Center Coliseum, One Civic Center Plaza. CICERO, IL, Sportsman’s Park Race Course, 3301 S. Laramie. COLUMBIA, SC, Carolina Coliseum, Assembly & Sweet Sts. FT. WORTH, TX (Sign language also), Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum, One Amon Carter Sq. GREENVILLE, SC, Greenville Memorial Auditorium, 300 E. North St. HOUSTON, TX, Astrodome, Loop 610 at Kirby Dr. JACKSONVILLE, FL, Memorial Coliseum, Gator Bowl Sports Complex. MADISON, WI, Dane County Memorial Coliseum, John Nolen Dr. MIDLAND, TX, Chaparral Center, Midland College, 3600 N. Garfield. NEW HAVEN, CT, Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 275 S. Orange St. NEW YORK, NY, Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave. OGDEN, UT, Dee Events Center, 4600 South 1400 East. RENO, NV, Centennial Coliseum, 4590 S. Virginia St. RICHFIELD, OH, The Coliseum, 2923 Streetsboro Rd. WHEELING, WV, Civic Center, Two 14th St. WICHITA, KS, Kansas Coliseum, I-135 at 85th St. N.

June 26-29: BATON ROUGE, LA, Assembly Center, Louisiana State University. BILLINGS, MT, Yellowstone Metra, Hwy. #10. CICERO, IL (Sign language also), Sportsman’s Park Race Course, 3301 S. Laramie. CORVALLIS, OR, Gill Coliseum, 600 S.W. 26th St. FT. WORTH, TX, Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum, One Amon Carter Sq. FRESNO, CA, Convention Center, 700 “M” St. GREENSBORO, NC, Greensboro Coliseum, 1921 W. Lee St. GREENVILLE, SC, Greenville Memorial Auditorium, 300 E. North St. JACKSONVILLE, FL, Memorial Coliseum, Gator Bowl Sports Complex. KANSAS CITY, MO, Kemper Arena, 1800 Genessee St. LANDOVER, MD, Capital Centre, Beltway Exit 15 E. or 17. MADISON, WI, Dane County Memorial Coliseum, John Nolen Dr. NEW HAVEN, CT, Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 275 S. Orange St. OGDEN, UT, Dee Events Center, 4600 South 1400 East. PROVIDENCE, RI, Providence Civic Center, One LaSalle Sq. RENO, NV, Centennial Coliseum, 4590 S. Virginia St. RICHFIELD, OH (Sign language also), The Coliseum, 2923 Streetsboro Rd. SAN ANTONIO, TX (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, S. Alamo & Market Sts. SAN DIEGO, CA, Jack Murphy Stadium, 9449 Friars Rd. SOUTH BEND, IN, N.D.U. Athletic Center, Juniper Rd. WEST PALM BEACH, FL, West Palm Beach Auditorium, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. WHEELING, WV, Civic Center, Two 14th St.

July 3-6: BATON ROUGE, LA (Sign language also), Assembly Center, Louisiana State University. CICERO, IL, Sportsman’s Park Race Course, 3301 S. Laramie. CORVALLIS, OR, Gill Coliseum, 600 S.W. 26th St. CROWNSVILLE, MD (Korean only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, Sunrise Beach Rd. FRESNO, CA, Convention Center, 700 “M” St. GREENSBORO, NC, Greensboro Coliseum, 1921 W. Lee St. LANDOVER, MD (Sign language also), Capital Centre, Beltway Exit 15 E. or 17. MACON, GA, Macon Coliseum, 200 Coliseum Dr. MADISON, WI, Dane County Memorial Coliseum, John Nolen Dr. NASHVILLE, TN, Municipal Auditorium, 417 Fourth Ave. NATICK, MA (Portuguese only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 85 Bacon St. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, Myriad, One Myriad Gardens. PROVIDENCE, RI, Providence Civic Center, One LaSalle Sq. RENO, NV, Centennial Coliseum, 4590 S. Virginia St. RICHFIELD, OH, The Coliseum, 2923 Streetsboro Rd. ROANOKE, VA, Civic Center, 710 Williamson Rd. N.E. ROCHESTER, NY, Memorial Auditorium, 100 Exchange St. ST. LOUIS, MO, The Arena, 5700 Oakland Ave. ST. PETERSBURG, FL, Bayfront Center, 400 1st St. S. SAN ANTONIO, TX (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, S. Alamo & Market Sts. SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, Geneva Ave. SOUTH BEND, IN, N.D.U. Athletic Center, Juniper Rd. TACOMA, WA, Tacoma Dome, 2727 E. “D” St. WEST PALM BEACH, FL, West Palm Beach Auditorium, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. WHEELING, WV, Civic Center, Two 14th St.

July 10-13: BISMARCK, ND, Bismarck Civic Center Arena, 6th & Sweet Sts. CICERO, IL (Spanish only), Sportsman’s Park Race Course, 3301 S. Laramie. CORVALLIS, OR, Gill Coliseum, 600 S.W. 26th St. FRESNO, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center, 700 “M” St. HAMPTON, VA, Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Dr. LANDOVER, MD, Capital Centre, Beltway Exit 15 E. or 17. LINCOLN, NE (Sign language also), Devaney Sports Center, 16th & Military. LITTLE ROCK, AR, Barton Coliseum, Roosevelt & Dennison St. LOUISVILLE, KY, Coliseum, Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center. MACON, GA, Macon Coliseum, 200 Coliseum Dr. NASHVILLE, TN, Municipal Auditorium, 417 Fourth Ave. PINE BLUFF, AR, Convention Center Arena, 500 E. 8th Ave. PROVIDENCE, RI, Providence Civic Center, One LaSalle Sq. ROCHESTER, NY, Memorial Auditorium, 100 Exchange St. ST. LOUIS, MO, The Arena, 5700 Oakland Ave. ST. PETERSBURG, FL, Bayfront Center, 400 1st St. S. SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, Geneva Ave. SAVANNAH, GA, Civic Center Arena, Orleans Square. TACOMA, WA (Spanish and sign language also), Tacoma Dome, 2727 E. “D” St. TUCSON, AZ, Community Center, 260 S. Church.

July 17-20: BROOKLYN, NY (Italian only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 973 Flatbush Ave. CHARLESTON, WV, Charleston Civic Center Coliseum, 200 Civic Center Dr. DENVER, CO, McNichols Sports Arena, 1635 Clay St. EL PASO, TX (Spanish only), Special Events Center, Baltimore at Mesa. FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (French only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 20850 Griffin Rd. FRESNO, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center, 700 “M” St. HAMPTON, VA, Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Dr. HIALEAH, FL (Spanish only), Hialeah Park Race Track, E. 32nd St. at E. 2nd Ave. JERSEY CITY, NJ (French only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 2932 Kennedy Blvd. LITTLE ROCK, AR, Barton Coliseum, Roosevelt & Dennison St. LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (Greek only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 44-17 Greenpoint Ave. LOS ANGELES, CA (Japanese and sign language also), Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave. LOUISVILLE, KY (Sign language also), Coliseum, Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center. MOBILE, AL, Municipal Auditorium, 401 Auditorium Dr. PHILADELPHIA, PA, Veterans Stadium, S. Broad & Pattison Ave. PINE BLUFF, AR, Convention Center Arena, 500 E. 8th Ave. ROCHESTER, NY, Memorial Auditorium, 100 Exchange St. ST. PETERSBURG, FL (Sign language also), Bayfront Center, 400 1st St. S. SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Sign language also), Cow Palace, Geneva Ave. SPRINGFIELD, IL, Convention Center Arena, One Convention Center Plaza. SPRINGFIELD, MA, Civic Center, 1277 Main St. TUCSON, AZ (Sign language also), Community Center, 260 S. Church.

July 24-27: ALBANY, GA, Albany Civic Center, 100 West Oglethorpe Ave. DENVER, CO (Sign language also), McNichols Sports Arena, 1635 Clay St. HIALEAH, FL (Spanish only), Hialeah Park Race Track, E. 32nd St. at E. 2nd Ave. LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (Chinese only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 44-17 Greenpoint Ave. LOS ANGELES, CA (Korean only), Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Hall, 4310 Degnan Blvd. LOS ANGELES, CA (Spanish only), Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave. PINE BLUFF, AR, Convention Center Arena, 500 E. 8th Ave. ST. PETERSBURG, FL, Bayfront Center, 400 1st St. S. SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, Geneva Ave. SPRINGFIELD, MA (Sign language also), Civic Center, 1277 Main St. TUCSON, AZ, Community Center, 260 S. Church.

July 31–August 3: ALBANY, GA (Sign language also), Albany Civic Center, 100 West Oglethorpe Ave. DULUTH, MN, Duluth Arena-Auditorium, 350 South 5th Ave. W. NEW YORK, NY (Sign language also), Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave.

August 7-10: DULUTH, MN, Duluth Arena-Auditorium, 350 South 5th Ave. W.

August 14-17: DULUTH, MN, Duluth Arena-Auditorium, 350 South 5th Ave. W. NEW YORK, NY (Spanish only), Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave.

Britain

June 26-29: NOTTINGHAM, Nottingham Forest Football Club, City Ground. SOUTHAMPTON, Southampton Football Club, The Dell, Milton Road.

July 3-6: EDINBURGH, Rugby Union Ground, Murrayfield. GUERNSEY, C.I., Beau Sejour Centre, Amherst, St. Peter Port. MANCHESTER, Manchester City Football Club, Maine Road, Moss Side. PLYMOUTH, Plymouth Argyle Football Club, Home Park.

July 10-13: LEEDS, Leeds United Football Club, Elland Road. NORWICH, Norwich City Football Club, Carrow Road. WOLVERHAMPTON, Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, Molineux.

July 17-20: CARDIFF, Welsh National Rugby Ground, Cardiff Arms Park.

July 24-27: LONDON (Greek and Spanish also), Rugby Union Ground, Whitton Road, Twickenham.

August 21-24: LONDON (Italian only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Road.

Ireland

July 3-6: BALLYMENA, Ballymena Showgrounds, Warden St.

July 17-20: CORK, Neptune Stadium, Gerald Griffin St.

Canada

July 3-6: BRAMPTON, ONT. (Spanish only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy. 7, 1 mile W. of Mississauga Rd., Norval, Ont. EDMONTON, ALTA. (Ukrainian sessions also), Edmonton Northlands Coliseum, 75th St. & 118th Ave. HAMILTON, ONT., Victor K. Copps Arena & Trade Centre, 101 York Blvd. KAMLOOPS, B.C., Kamloops Exhibition Association. KITIMAT, B.C., Tamitik Arena, 400 City Centre. OTTAWA, ONT. (Arabic sessions also), Civic Centre Arena, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St. PENTICTON, B.C., Peach Bowl Convention Centre, 273 Power St. SASKATOON, SASK. (Ukrainian sessions also), Saskatoon Arena, 19th St. E. VANCOUVER, B.C. (Portuguese also), Pacific Coliseum, P.N.E. Grounds, Hastings St. E. & Renfrew St. WINNIPEG, MAN. (Ukrainian sessions also), Winnipeg Convention Centre, 375 York Ave.

July 10-13: BRAMPTON, ONT. (Portuguese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy. 7, 1 mile W. of Mississauga Rd., Norval, Ont. CAMPBELLVILLE, ONT. (Ukrainian, Hungarian, and Korean sessions also), Mohawk Raceway, Guelph Line, 1/4 mile N. of Hwy. 401. PRINCE GEORGE, B.C., Kin Centre, Arenas I & II, Ospika Blvd. & 18th Ave. REGINA, SASK., The Agridome, Exhibition Park. ST. JOHN’S, NFLD., Memorial Stadium, Lake Ave. VICTORIA, B.C., Victoria Memorial Arena, 1925 Blanshard St.

July 17-20: BRAMPTON, ONT. (Italian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy. 7, 1 mile W. of Mississauga Rd., Norval, Ont. CASTLEGAR, B.C., Castlegar & District Community Complex, 2101 6th Ave. QUEBEC CITY, QUE. (French only), Colisée, Parc de l’Exposition, 2205, av. du Colisée. SAINT JOHN, N.B., Lord Beaverbrook Rink, 536 Main St. SUDBURY, ONT., Garson Community Centre, Church St., Garson, Ont.

July 24-27: BRAMPTON, ONT. (Italian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy. 7, 1 mile W. of Mississauga Rd., Norval, Ont. CALGARY, ALTA. (French and Spanish sessions also), Stampede Corral, Stampede Park, 12th Ave. & 4th St. S.E. HALIFAX, N.S., Halifax Metro Centre, 1800 Argyle St. LONDON, ONT., Grandstand Western Fairgrounds, Queen’s Park, 900 King St. MONTREAL, QUE. (French only; Vietnamese sessions also), Montreal Forum, 2313, rue Ste-Catherine O. MONTREAL, QUE. (Italian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 809, boul. St-Luc, St-Luc, Qué.

July 31–August 3: BRAMPTON, ONT. (Greek only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy. 7, 1 mile W. of Mississauga Rd., Norval, Ont.

The Best Advice for Modern Marriage

“Oh! You must buy these magazines and read them,” interrupted the neighbor. “Do you know why I want her to read them?” the neighbor asked the woman who was offering the magazines. “Thanks to your publications, I am back with my husband. I had left him and for one and a half years stayed with my mother. One of your people called and left me a publication, which I later read. It made me decide to go back to my husband. I continue to read your publications and am now happily married.” On this recommendation, the householder readily accepted the magazines.

The Watchtower and Awake! regularly contain Bible-based advice on dealing with family problems. Send only $8, and you will receive both magazines (a total of four copies a month) for one year.

Please send a year’s subscription for the Watchtower and Awake! magazines. I enclose $8 (U.S.) for 48 issues. (Outside the U.S.A., write to local Watch Tower branch for information.)