The Watchtower — September 1, 1986

Do You Walk in the Savior’s Footsteps?

ONE of the finest compliments you can pay a person is to imitate him. Children often imitate their parents. Teenagers may model themselves after popular entertainers, adults after prominent leaders in the fields of business and politics. But how many try to imitate the greatest leader in human history​—Jesus Christ?

A recent poll conducted by the Gallup organization revealed: “Eight in 10 Americans said they are making at least some effort to follow the example of Jesus.” A mere “twelve percent said they were making the greatest possible effort.”

What, though, makes Jesus more worthy of being followed than other influential men? For one thing, as The World Book Encyclopedia observed, Jesus Christ “has probably influenced humanity more than anyone else who ever lived.” But unlike other influential men, Christ did not lead armies into the field to make forced conversions. He did not rely on costly propaganda as do well-known evangelists today. Nor did he support any political party. His influence was due to the sheer power of his message and his way of speaking it.​—Matthew 7:28, 29; John 7:46.

Jesus moved people to make dramatic changes in their lives, spiritually and morally. What other influential man has so beneficially affected so many? Too, what other human leader could be described as “loyal, guileless, undefiled, separated from the sinners”? (Hebrews 7:26) Jesus’ example is therefore a perfect one​—unlike that of any other man who ever walked the earth!

‘How, though, can a weak and imperfect human follow such an example?’ reason some. Historian H. G. Wells in his book The Outline of History notes that from the beginning men balked at following Christ. “For to take [Christ] seriously,” says Wells, “was to enter upon a strange and alarming life, to abandon habits, to control instincts and impulses, to essay [attempt] an incredible happiness.” Concludes Wells: “Is it any wonder that to this day this Galilean [Christ] is too much for our small hearts.”

But is that really true? Granted, to follow Christ perfectly would be an impossibility. The apostle Peter nevertheless said that Christ ‘left a model for us to follow his steps closely.’ (1 Peter 2:21) Note, he did not say “perfectly” but “closely.” What kind of model, then, did Jesus leave us? How can we imitate it?

“Follow His Steps Closely”​—How?

“I COULD never be as perfect as Jesus, no matter how much I pray or how hard I try.” Of those polled by U.S. Catholic, 89 percent agreed with that statement. Indeed, the prospect of walking in Christ’s footsteps may seem overwhelming​—especially when you consider the image of Christ projected by the churches. Said one Catholic man: “On the whole, I think of Jesus as a warm, loving, caring, tolerant person who doesn’t expect too much of me. But when I get to church, Jesus is so piously deified I am lost and humbled with and by my imperfections.”

The Gospel records, however, do not ‘piously deify’ Christ. They show that Jesus was born, not of aristocrats, but into a working-class family. His adoptive father Joseph was a carpenter. Although little is known of Jesus’ childhood, one incident is quite revealing. When Jesus was 12 years old, his parents took him on their annual visit to Jerusalem for the Passover. On this occasion he became engrossed in a Scriptural discussion, and his family left without him. The understandably worried Joseph and Mary found him three days later in the temple, “sitting in the midst of the teachers and listening to them and questioning them.” Moreover, “all those listening to him were in constant amazement at his understanding and his answers.” Imagine, at only 12 years of age he could not only ask thought-provoking, spiritually oriented questions but also give intelligent answers. Doubtless he had been aided by his parents’ training!​—Luke 2:41-50.

If you are a young person, is it possible for you to follow Christ’s example? Indeed it is! For Christ himself left you “a model for you to follow his steps closely.”​—1 Peter 2:21.

Youth is a good time in which to acquire a basic knowledge of God and his Word. True, others you know may waste a lot of time on comic books and TV. But why not follow, instead, in the footsteps of Jesus, who as a boy took delight in learning about Jehovah? Because of his love of spiritual things, “Jesus went on progressing in wisdom.” (Luke 2:52) So can you.

To illustrate: In a South African school, a teacher was asked if he could prove that the Bible is true. He confessed that he could not. A young boy, one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, boldly said: “I can definitely prove that the Bible is true!” How? He recalled information he had studied in a recent issue of The Watchtower. So after gaining permission to speak, he went on to explain the meaning of a prophecy recorded in Daniel chapter 2. The class was amazed as he showed how the prophecy foretold the rise and fall of successive world governments and their ultimate destruction by God’s Kingdom. A fine discussion ensued in which he had opportunity to answer many questions.

Coming to Do God’s Will

The foundation of Bible knowledge and understanding that Jesus laid in youth later moved him to take a serious step. “Jesus came . . . to the Jordan to John, in order to be baptized by him.” It was now the due time for him to shoulder his responsibilities as God’s minister. Baptism meant the presenting of himself to do God’s will.​—Matthew 3:13-15.

Christians are likewise required to imitate Christ by getting baptized. Baptism is a sacred symbol, an outward sign of dedication. When we agree to work for a person or a firm, we first ascertain the requirements and conditions and often follow through by signing a contract. But without a signature, the contract is not binding. So it is with baptism​—it makes our dedication to God valid. In a sense, like Jesus we say: ‘Look! I am come to do your will, O God.’ (Hebrews 10:7) We thus become God’s servants, his ministers!​—2 Corinthians 3:5, 6.

Of course, like Jesus, you will first have to gain a foundation knowledge of God. But Jehovah’s Witnesses can help you​—and your children—​do this by a systematic study of the Bible.

Putting the Ministry First

After getting baptized, Jesus entered a period of fasting, meditation, and prayer. No doubt this prepared him for the temptation he next encountered. Satan the Devil offered him rulership over “all the kingdoms of the world.” What a career Jesus could have had if he had accepted the Devil’s offer! Christ, however, realized that such a career would have been short-lived. He immediately rejected the Devil and instead “commenced preaching and saying: ‘Repent, you people, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.’” (Matthew 4:2, 8-10, 17) For the rest of his earthly life, Christ was a full-time minister of God’s Kingdom.

Similarly today, a Christian would not allow Satan’s world to allure him into making high-paying jobs and careers his purpose in life. Why, when Jesus called his early disciples, “at once they abandoned their nets and followed him.” (Mark 1:17-21) Would it therefore be wise to become entangled in a net of worldly pursuits? Jesus commands his followers today to ‘preach the good news of the kingdom.’ (Matthew 24:14) True, you may have a family or other responsibilities to care for. Many of Jehovah’s Witnesses therefore use evenings and weekends to carry out their Christian responsibility to preach. Some are even able to arrange to do so full-time!

In South Africa one young man planned to attend a university upon leaving school. However, after symbolizing his dedication to Jehovah by baptism, he felt an obligation to enter the full-time ministry. His father, not a Witness, at first disapproved. But after much discussion, he finally agreed to his son’s serving at the branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses in South Africa.

After nine happy years there, he married and entered the full-time preaching work with his bride. Later they had a child. Nevertheless, they asked Jehovah to help them continue as full-time ministers. They recalled Jesus’ promise that if one puts God’s Kingdom first, “all these other things [material needs] will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33) This proved true. “We have lived frugally over the years,” says the father, “but we have given our daughter a pleasant home and cared for all her material needs.”

“Mild-Tempered and Lowly in Heart”

“Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down,” said Jesus, “and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls. For my yoke is kindly and my load is light.”​—Matthew 11:28-30.

When performing miracles, such as expelling demons, Jesus did not take the credit for himself but openly admitted that he accomplished such things “by means of God’s spirit.” (Matthew 12:28) And though able to command the attention of an audience in such a way that “they were astounded at his way of teaching,” he did not seek glory for himself. (Luke 4:32) Rather, he would say: “What I teach is not mine, but belongs to him that sent me.”​—John 7:16.

True Christians today try to show the same humility. For example, when teaching others, they do not call attention to themselves. Rather, they are quick to give credit to Jehovah and his organization for whatever ability they have in order to convey the message of God’s Word. “What do you have that you did not receive?” asks the apostle Paul.​—1 Corinthians 4:7.

Jesus’ humility was also shown in his being willing to cover thousands of miles, not in a chariot, but on foot as an itinerant preacher. On one occasion he and his disciples were so tired that they needed to “rest up a bit.” Yet when a large crowd showed up, hungry for spiritual encouragement, Jesus forgot about his weariness and “started to teach them many things.”​—Mark 6:31-34.

In Lesotho, Africa, a traveling minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses (called a circuit overseer) and two companions recently showed a similar spirit. They walked for 22 hours across mountainous terrain to visit a few isolated fellow Christians. Weary of traveling, the circuit overseer decided to rest the following day. But such a crowd came to greet him and ask questions that, exhausted as he was, he got up and taught them about the good news of the Kingdom. The response was so encouraging that the weary travelers felt well rewarded for their efforts.

Imitate Him!

The apostle Paul encourages us to “look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus.” (Hebrews 12:2) This we can do by regularly reading the Gospel accounts and meditating on ways in which we can imitate Christ. For example, Jesus showed courage when he denounced the hypocrisy and self-righteousness of religious leaders, even though he knew they hated him and would kill him. (Matthew 23:1-36; 26:3, 4) He remained calm and self-controlled under attack. (1 Peter 2:23) In his teaching, he displayed understanding of human nature and the ability to express deep truths in simple language.

But Jesus’ most outstanding gift was his love. “No one has love greater than this, that someone should surrender his soul in behalf of his friends.” (John 15:13) He even added a new dimension to the word love by telling us to love our enemies.​—Matthew 5:43-48.

What a supreme model Jesus was for us! Imitating him is not easy, and we may stumble from time to time. But never should we give up. (Galatians 6:9) For there are millions who are successfully endeavoring to follow Jesus. Why, the very one who brought you this magazine is no doubt among them and would be more than happy also to help you to follow Jesus’ steps​—CLOSELY!

[Blurb on page 5]

Even as a youth, Jesus showed an intense interest in spiritual matters. Do you imitate him in this regard?

[Blurb on page 6]

Christ rejected a worldly career in favor of the ministry

Kingdom Proclaimers Report

“Integrity Keepers” Conventions in the Philippines

THE 1985 series of 23 “Integrity Keepers” Conventions held in the Philippines was a tremendous success in every way. The combined attendance of 213,734, a 27-percent increase over last year’s figure, was more than two and a half times the total number of publishers in the country. This shows that there are a lot of interested people attending the conventions. Also, 2,223 were baptized, a 14.5-percent increase over last year.

In Tuguegarao, Cagayan, it was expected that 12,000 would attend the convention, but 24,327 came! A radio station broadcast a 30-minute interview with the brothers, which no doubt contributed to the fine attendance. The interviewer asked how we manage to maintain peace and order at our conventions. It was explained that all members of our organization endeavor to cultivate the Bible fruitage of love and peace. So whenever we have conventions like this, there is no quarreling. The interviewer was amazed and said: “How wonderful your organization is! Other organizations cannot do this. Whenever they have a crowd like this, there are always bad incidents.”

At this same convention, an instructor at the Cagayan State University observed: “Attendance was overwhelming; delegates were disciplined; there was cooperation among them; they showed total dedication to the ministry. Despite the big number of delegates, the place was spick and span; there was order and no untoward incidents happened, which only proves that the Witnesses practice religiously what they learned from the Scriptures.”

The concessionaire at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila commented during the convention: “I admire the arrangement of your assembly. Your Society is organized, and it is only now that I have witnessed this kind of orderliness of the Witnesses because it is only now that I have seen an assembly like this.”

At the Calbayog City convention, 7 publishers attended from an isolated group, and they brought 14 interested persons with them. Appreciating the need to be at this spiritual feast, one family from Palawan spent about 20 percent of their yearly income to attend in Puerto Princesa City.

Many foreign delegates traveled to the Manila convention, and about 80 percent of these were in some form of full-time service. It was heartwarming to see how the brothers were encouraged by the drama Your Future​—A Challenge, which dealt with full-time service. In Iloilo City, three persons taking part in this drama were so moved during the rehearsals that they sent in regular pioneer applications even before the convention began. In Ormoc City, the convention chairman related that right after the drama, six publishers asked for regular pioneer applications.

Certainly Jehovah’s spirit is moving his people to “offer themselves willingly” in these last days. (Psalm 110:3) The “Integrity Keepers” Conventions in the Philippines have greatly encouraged the brothers and interested people there.

Jesus’ Life and Ministry

Choosing His Apostles

IT HAS been about a year and a half since John the Baptizer introduced Jesus as the Lamb of God and Jesus began his public ministry. At that time Andrew, Simon Peter, John, and perhaps James (John’s brother), as well as Philip and Nathanael (also called Bartholomew), had become his first disciples. In time, many others joined them in following Christ.

Now Jesus is ready to select his apostles. These will be his intimate associates who will be given special training. But before selecting them, Jesus goes into a mountain and spends the whole night in prayer, likely asking for wisdom and God’s blessing. When it becomes day, he calls his disciples and from among them chooses these 12. However, since they continue to be Jesus’ pupils, they are still called disciples.

Six that Jesus selects, named above, are those who became his first disciples. Matthew, whom Jesus called from his tax office, also is selected. The other five chosen are Judas (also called Thaddaeus), Judas Iscariot, Simon the Cananaean, Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus. This James is also called James the Less, perhaps to distinguish him from the other apostle James.

By now these 12 have been with Jesus for some time, and he knows them well. In fact, a number of them are his own relatives. James and his brother John evidently are Jesus’ first cousins. And it is probable that Alphaeus was the brother of Joseph, Jesus’ adoptive father. So Alphaeus’ son, the apostle James, would also be a cousin of Jesus.

Jesus, of course, has no problem in remembering his apostles’ names. But can you remember them? Well, just remember that there are two named Simon, two named James, and two named Judas, and that Simon has a brother Andrew, and that James has a brother John. That is the key to remembering eight apostles. The other four include a tax collector (Matthew), one who later doubted (Thomas), one called from under a tree (Nathanael), and his friend Philip.

Eleven of the apostles are from Galilee, Jesus’ home territory. Nathanael is from Cana. Philip, Peter, and Andrew are originally from Bethsaida. However, Peter and Andrew later moved to Capernaum where Matthew appears to have lived. James and John were in the fishing business and also likely lived in or near Capernaum. It seems that Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Jesus, is the only apostle from Judea. Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-16.

◆ What apostles may have been relatives of Jesus?

◆ Who are Jesus’ apostles, and how can you remember their names?

◆ From which territories did the apostles come?

[Picture on page 9]

Before selecting his 12 apostles, Jesus spent the whole night in prayer to Jehovah

Why I Gave Up the Idea of Going to Heaven

​—Related by Yuriko Eto

AS A Japanese Methodist, I deeply believed that there could be no greater happiness than going to heaven. It would be sublime to be beside God and be able to live with the Lord Jesus Christ forever. Why was it that I had such an earnest longing to go to heaven? And why did I give up the idea? Let me tell you my story.

Only Shintoism and Buddhism had been allowed in my country, Japan, for centuries. I was born in 1911, just 22 years after freedom of religion had been granted. My family had become Methodists. My father was in the trading business. My mother was the daughter of a clergyman. The fact that my mother genuinely believed the Bible was a blessing to me. I particularly remember that my mother’s friend, a schoolmistress at a girls’ theological school, used to visit us often. She always talked about the Bible, and I loved to listen. But at the end of the discussions she would always say: “Isn’t it sad that the Bible has not yet been opened up and understood?” It always bothered me that since God had caused men to write the Bible, why had he not made them understand it?

After coming home from school, I liked nothing better than to sit in a comfortable chair reading the Bible and dreaming about heaven. What particularly moved my heart was that maybe Christ would come to meet us during my lifetime. Jesus Christ likened himself to a bridegroom and warned us that of the ten virgins, five were fast asleep and could not meet the bridegroom and could not go to heaven! So every day, I prayed for the time when the Lord Jesus would come to call us, and I prayed that the second presence of Christ should not be forgotten. I kept in my heart the scripture that says, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God,” and I waited and hoped. In fact, I was living as an unconcerned traveler in this world.​—Matthew 25:1-12; 5:8, King James Version.

In 1933 I married, and because I was always bringing heaven into our conversations, my husband used to laugh at me saying, “You belong to heaven, but I belong to this world.” However, my husband’s father was devoted to the Bible and would often say: “It’s been almost 2,000 years since the Lord Jesus Christ came, so we can suppose that Christ’s second presence is close.” My heart burned more and more.

Then World War II began, and in the last year of the war my husband died. At that time I thought that if there is a fearful hell, it must be this world. After the war, I took my four children (the youngest was seven months old) and we moved several times, as Tokyo was still in a state of confusion. I could not bear a whole Sunday without going to church, so every time we moved, I attended the church nearest our home. I did not care which church it was, as I felt there was only one God and one Bible. I disliked the thought of sticking to one religion.

Searching for God’s Organization

Seeing differences, I gradually began to wonder how God himself views all the sects. I came to the conclusion that God knows better than anyone that errors prevail in the many religions. In the same way that a teacher gives points on a pupil’s examination paper, I thought God would give points to the organization that understood the Bible most accurately. I began to feel that I must find the organization that is right in God’s eyes. Then Matthew 7:9 flashed through my mind. It says: “Who is the man among you whom his son asks for bread​—he will not hand him a stone, will he?” Because I was seeking the true “bread,” I put faith in this scripture and began to pray seriously day after day: “Please let me associate with the organization that has the accurate understanding of the Bible.” One year after starting to pray this way, I moved to Yokohama. It was here that a certain conversation excited me.

Whenever I met people who said they attended church, I would ask them right away, “I wonder if you know anyone who understands the Bible in detail?” One day in a nearby town, I met a member of a church and asked her the same question. Even though I had not, up till then, received a favorable reply, she answered in a convincing voice: “Yes. There is such a person. The other day a woman missionary called here. I invited her into the house, and she immediately opened up the Bible and explained things one after another. She mentioned before she left that she lives on the top of the hill where you live.” On hearing that, I left her house​—thrilled. The very next day I visited the missionary home of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

A Time of Crisis

At last I could have a detailed study of the Bible. About a month passed​—and then a bombshell! My missionary-teacher, Jean Hyde (now Nisbet), smiled and said: “In the future you will probably live not in heaven but on the earth.” I was shocked because I felt as if I had been pushed out of heaven. I was really angry. “It is the first time that I have ever met a missionary who speaks as rudely as you,” I spit out at her. “It is a shame that in spite of my having looked forward to having you teach me the Bible, that feeling is now gone. However, as I am searching for the true organization at the present time, and as I have subscribed for The Watchtower and also have the book ‘Let God Be True,’ I will make a careful examination by myself. When I have reaffirmed that this is the truth, I will bow to you and come to ask for your help again.”

Jean was not angry. She beamed and said, “By all means, please examine the truth.” With that she left, but she would kindly drop in from time to time to ask, “Are you making your examination?” I had hoped that this organization was God’s answer to my prayers, but now my feelings were in a complete upheaval. I had never before heard of a distinction being made between those who will go to heaven and those who will live forever on earth.

Thereafter, I earnestly examined the Watch Tower publications daily. After a while the traveling overseer of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Adrian Thompson, called on me. I immediately asked, a little rebelliously: “Even if in the future there are two groups, one heavenly and one earthly, wouldn’t God be the one who decides? It would be presumptuous of men to decide, wouldn’t it?” He replied: “Exactly! The One who decides is God.” Even though I did not understand the details, somehow I felt a little easier. ‘So,’ I thought, ‘my prospects of going to heaven have not been taken away.’ After that, I prayed and continued to study by myself.

In 1954 I attended the Memorial of Christ’s death. Lloyd Barry was the speaker. In his talk he said that those in the “covenant agreement” were the ones to partake of the bread and the wine. After the Memorial I had many questions, so I walked all the way home with Shizue Seki, a zealous Witness. She showed great concern and took time to encourage me not to give up just because I had a problem with one point but to make certain whether all the other teachings are based on the Bible or not.

One day, after the children had gone to school, I was tidying up in preparation for guests, and I prayed silently, ‘I will study again with Jehovah’s Witnesses.’ On opening my eyes, I was amazed to see, not the guests I was waiting for, but three Japanese Jehovah’s Witnesses. Surprised, I told them what I had just finished praying. Fumiko Seki excitedly jumped up and down, clapping her hands saying, “Good! Good!” Soon another missionary, Sonny Dearn, with Fumiko helping with the translation, started an enjoyable study. This time two of my children joined me in the study. However, Sonny’s assignment changed. Then Leon Pettitt, another foreigner, came. We always fired a barrage of questions at him. He calmly showed us scriptures so that we could come to the right conclusion and progress in Scriptural knowledge.

Learning the Purpose of Going to Heaven

In contrast to my personal aspirations, I learned that there is a purpose in going to heaven over and above the simple wistfulness of being next to the glorious God and living with the Lord Jesus forever. As I became acquainted with certain truths, my heart was able to accept them readily.

To begin with, if the first man Adam had not sinned, there would have been no necessity for any of mankind to go to heaven. This is because before the world was created, there were already thousands upon thousands of angels in heaven.​—Job 38:4-7; Daniel 7:9, 10.

As the study progressed, I learned from Luke 12:32 that it is only a small group that the Bible calls a “little flock” that goes to heaven. Jesus said: “Have no fear, little flock, because your Father has approved of giving you the kingdom.” As to the purpose, is it not written in Revelation 20:6 that “they . . . will rule as kings with him [Christ] for the thousand years”? And in Revelation 5:10 that “they are to rule as kings over the earth”?

I also learned the meaning of the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus prayed: “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10, KJ) When I understood that this was referring to the heavenly Kingdom government made up of people who are taken from the earth to reign with the King Jesus Christ, I marveled at God’s wisdom. I was convinced that this is the very thing we need, a unique, new government that will free mankind from the suffering, sorrow, and pressures brought by Satan. I could not hold back my praise of Jehovah.

Further, when I learned that the number going to heaven is limited to 144,000, I could not help but agree with the reasonableness of this. (Revelation 14:1, 3) In the same way, even the number of officials in a government on earth is limited. I came to appreciate that there are certain important duties for those who go to heaven. Their work within God’s loving arrangement includes making all those living on earth happy and restoring this earth to paradisaic conditions.

I was so overwhelmed with appreciation that I gladly abandoned my thoughts of going to heaven. Now I am filled with the hope of living in a paradise on earth. Undoubtedly, God has opened up the meaning of the Bible by means of his organization. I had been searching for the truth. I am compelled to give thanks to God that he helped me to associate with the organization he approves.

Fruitful, Happy Ministry

I was baptized in October 1954. Since 1955, two of my children have been sharing full-time in the Kingdom proclamation activity along with me. My son Keijiro served as a traveling overseer for seven years. Now he is blessed with two children, and he and his wife work zealously as full-time preachers (pioneers). As a special pioneer, I have shared in establishing congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses in six cities.a Recently I had the joy of preaching for several years with my eldest daughter, Hiroko, on Hachijō Island, which is 185 miles (300 km) out in the Pacific Ocean from Tokyo.

Since I became contented with the hope of a wonderful future on earth, my view toward the earth has greatly changed. On Hachijō Island especially, we were surrounded by unusual flowers, and as we called from house to house, we admired them when talking with the householders in their beautiful gardens. One day we met an elderly woman taking care of her flowers. We praised them, but she lamented: “I am not afraid of dying, but it distresses me that I will have to part from these flowers when I go to the other world.” I explained that under God’s Kingdom rule she will be resurrected from death into a paradise earth where flowers will be enjoyed forever. Her eyes got bright, and a Bible study was arranged.

I was drawn also by the simple life-style of the island people. They are especially reverent in the matter of honoring their ancestors. When someone dies, everyone in the community obligingly attends the funeral. I only wish that all these people would come to know Jehovah, the Father of life, and understand that he is the God who will cause their ancestors to live again when the earth is restored to a paradise. I would like them to know that there is an important difference between respecting and worshiping our ancestors. We should worship only the one Father of life, Jehovah. As Jesus said: “Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him. God is a Spirit, and those worshiping him must worship with spirit and truth.”​—John 4:23, 24.

Now in my seventh territory assignment, I thank Jehovah as I continue to tell people about the purpose of Jehovah’s heavenly Kingdom government and the wonderful blessings that it will bring to those of us who will have the marvelous privilege of living forever on earth.​—2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:3, 4.

[Footnotes]

[Picture on page 12]

Yuriko Eto studying with others about the Bible’s promise of an earthly paradise

A Woman’s Honorable Role

“WHY should a woman be more like a man?” This somewhat ambiguous question was the title of an article by psychologist Carol Gilligan in which she stated: “Woman’s place in man’s life cycle has been that of nurturer, caretaker, and helpmate, the weaver of those networks of relationships on which she, in turn, relies. But while women have thus taken care of men, it is equally true that men . . . have tended to devalue that care.”​—Psychology Today.

It is a present-day fact that many women feel justified in complaining about certain inequalities and discrimination against their sex. Admittedly, selfish men have exploited womenfolk in all parts of the world​—in some countries and civilizations more than in others. Some explain that this is due to social systems that assign a subordinate role to women. Others point to the Bible as being at least partly to blame, claiming that in both the Hebrew and the Greek Scriptures (commonly called the Old and New Testaments) the Bible is hard on women. Is this true?

God’s Purpose for Woman

The Bible states: “God proceeded to create the man in his image, . . . male and female he created them.” What was the purpose of this sexual distinction? The answer is clear. It would enable the first couple to carry out the divine order outlined in the very next verse: “God said to them: ‘Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection . . . every living creature that is moving upon the earth.’”​—Genesis 1:27, 28.

Notice that this order was given to “them,” to both the man and the woman. Both would share not only in filling the earth with other humans but also in subduing the earth and exercising dominion over the lower creatures in harmony with God’s will. To do this, both would need intellectual and spiritual qualities, and they had the same potential for developing these.

God did, however, assign different roles and responsibilities to man and woman. During the time it took Adam to study the animal species and give them names, he acted as a perfect, complete man. For that assigned task he lacked nothing. (Genesis 2:19, 20) But when the time came for man to begin filling the earth with offspring, obviously he needed a wife. That is why “Jehovah God went on to say: ‘It is not good for the man to continue by himself. I am going to make a helper for him, as a complement of him.’”​—Genesis 2:18.

The Bible says that God made her as “a helper for him, as a complement of him.” The Hebrew word translated “complement” can also be rendered “counterpart,” which has been defined as “a thing that fits another perfectly.” God’s purpose for woman was for her to be a fitting complement of man in the fulfillment of their joint mission, which was to “fill the earth and subdue it.”

God’s Original Arrangement Distorted

The Bible does state that “Adam was formed first, then Eve.” (1 Timothy 2:13) It describes woman as “a weaker vessel, the feminine one,” and says that, just as man has a head (Christ), “the head of a woman is the man.”​—1 Peter 3:7; 1 Corinthians 11:3.

According to Jehovah’s original arrangement, monogamy was the standard for marriage. (Genesis 2:24) Man was created first and was to take the lead in all matters concerning worship and godly activities carried out with a view to filling the earth and subduing it. This would include family matters. The father was to be the head of the household, but this would not be to the detriment of the wife. Rather, it would be to her advantage because she would have someone to back her up when she wielded her God-given authority over her children.​—Ephesians 6:1-4.

As in other areas of human endeavor, sin and imperfection have marred this proper relationship between man and woman. (Romans 7:14-20) Selfish men have abused their rightful headship, bringing much suffering to womenfolk throughout the ages. Foreseeing this particular consequence of sin, Jehovah said to Eve after her rebellion: “Your craving will be for your husband, and he will dominate you.” (Genesis 3:16) This abusive dominating would not be the proper exercise of headship. It would reflect man’s sinful condition, and also woman’s, for sometimes it would result from her attempting to usurp her husband’s authority.

Women Under the Law of Moses

The Law Jehovah gave to Israel protected the rights of virgins. (Exodus 22:16) It safeguarded “the due right of daughters.” (Exodus 21:9) Wives were to be “cherished,” not “dealt treacherously” with. (Deuteronomy 13:6; Malachi 2:14, 15) The dignity of wives was to be respected in sexual matters. (Leviticus 18:19) Women were not to be sexually abused.​—Leviticus 18:8-17.

Writing in the book Religion and Sexism, doctor of theology Phyllis Bird states: “Israel’s laws differ most notably from other known law codes in their unusual severity in the field of sexual transgression . . . Israel’s view of the proper place of sex and the harsh penalties laid upon sexual offenders presumably reflect a deliberate antithesis to the practices of the surrounding peoples (specifically Canaanites) . . . Sexual offenses are religious offenses in Israel. They are not private matters but matters of vital concern to the whole community.” Such strict laws certainly protected the rights of women.

In Israel, men and women were equal before the Law if they were found guilty of adultery, incest, bestiality, or other crimes. (Leviticus 18:6, 23; 20:10-12) Laws concerning Sabbath benefits, festivals, Nazirite vows, and other provisions applied equally to men and women. ​—Exodus 20:10; Numbers 6:2; Deuteronomy 12:18; 16:11-14.

In the book of Proverbs, the Bible praises the “good wife,” the “capable wife,” the “discreet wife,” and “the truly wise woman.” (Proverbs 18:22; 12:4; 19:14; 14:1) Proverbs chapter 31 describes such “a capable wife” and shows how much trust her husband had in her and how many prerogatives he allowed her in handling important household matters. Unquestionably, when the Law was followed in Israel, women were not treated badly.

Women in the Christian Congregation

Under patriarchal and Mosaic Law, polygamy and concubinage were tolerated; but they were regulated, and the rights of both wives and concubines were protected. (Genesis 16:3; 29:23-29; Exodus 21:7, 8; Deuteronomy 21:14-17) Christ, however, restored God’s original standard for marriage, namely, one man for one woman. (Matthew 19:4-6) He also did away with divorce on any sort of grounds, allowing only one valid reason​—fornication.​—Matthew 19:7-9.

Of course, Christ’s tightening up of the marriage arrangement benefited both men and women within the Christian congregation. But it is obvious that women were the prime beneficiaries.

According to Christian standards, wives were to be loved and cherished. (Ephesians 5:28, 29, 33) Male members of the congregation were to treat younger women “as sisters with all chasteness.” (1 Timothy 5:1, 2) Christian women received the holy spirit and ‘prophesied,’ or boldly spoke forth “the magnificent things of God.” (Acts 2:11-18) Older Christian women were to be “teachers of what is good” for their younger spiritual sisters. (Titus 2:3, 4) All, young and old, were to take an active part in carrying out the commission to ‘make disciples of people of all the nations.’​—Matthew 28:19, 20.

God’s original arrangement for marriage was restored within the Christian congregation. Here, the principle of male headship was to be respected. (1 Corinthians 11:3) Christian women were to be in subjection to their husbands. (Ephesians 5:22-24) They were also to respect the elders appointed within the congregation, all of whom were men, whether these were single or were ‘husbands of one wife.’ (1 Timothy 3:2) Christian women were to leave public teaching in the congregation to such appointed “older men” and refrain from publicly contradicting such teachers. (Titus 1:5-9; 1 Timothy 2:11-15; 1 Corinthians 14:34, 35) This would make for peace within the individual congregations. (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40) Any improper feminine influence within a congregation would incur Christ’s unfavorable judgment.​—Revelation 2:20-23.

Jehovah’s Concern for Women

Is the Bible hard on women? No. Throughout its pages, it reveals Jehovah’s deep concern for the happiness and welfare of this “weaker vessel, the feminine one,” of which he is the Creator. They are assigned honor. (1 Peter 3:7) He knows best which role is suited to each of the sexes, for their mutual benefit. He has given headship to men but many precious privileges to his female servants, including the great honor of being his witnesses. “Jehovah himself gives the saying; the women telling the good news are a large army.”​—Psalm 68:11.

Psychologist Carol Gilligan put the question, “Why should a woman be more like a man?” The Bible answers: There is no good reason. She will be happier herself and make others happier if she fulfills her God-assigned role.

Christian Neutrals in a Bloodstained World

“Anyone shedding man’s blood, by man will his own blood be shed, for in God’s image he made man.”​—GENESIS 9:6.

1. What world developments since 1914 give cause for concern?

OCEANS of blood, that of more than a hundred million humans, have been shed in warfare since 1914. And what is the prospect for the future? The devastation of two Japanese cities in 1945 snuffed out some 200,000 lives and led eventually to a new doctrine, spelled out by the superpowers and appropriately labeled “MAD” (Mutually Assured Destruction). This has become the basis of a balance of terror, built upon stockpiles of nuclear weapons that could demolish our earth many times over. Submarines have carried these fiendish weapons into the oceans, and recently the space-war threat has extended the danger. Even the balance of terror is now shaken to its foundations. Is there any way out of this madness?

2. What did Jesus prophesy concerning these times, but with what assurance to Christians?

² Yes, there is. But it will not be of the nations’ choosing. Jesus prophesied concerning their present dilemma: “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth anguish of nations, not knowing the way out because of the roaring of the sea and its agitation, while men become faint out of fear and expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” Jesus concluded that prophecy with the assurance that Christians who “keep awake . . . may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur.”​—Luke 21:25, 26, 36.

Pursuing Peace With God

3. (a) How are the nations serving the interests of “the god of this world”? (b) How will Jehovah settle the issue?

³ The nations, especially those armed with nuclear weapons, are locked in a competition for world domination, which could conceivably end in world annihilation. This serves the interests of “the god of this world.” The nations “have massed together as one against Jehovah and against his [Christ],” who is now enthroned in the heavens. When Jehovah gives the command, Christ will break those nations as with an iron scepter. Then will come the fulfillment of the promise: “The God who gives peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.”​—2 Corinthians 4:4, King James Version; Psalm 2:2, 6-9; Romans 16:20.

4. How may we pursue peace with God? (1 Peter 3:11)

⁴ We, for our part, should want to pursue peace with that God. How may we do so? For one thing, we should wish to have God’s viewpoint concerning the sanctity of human life and of the precious lifeblood that flows in our arteries and veins.

5. What examples indicate that Jehovah avenges wanton bloodshed?

⁵ Jehovah is the Creator of man and of the marvelous bloodstream that carries nourishment to the human body, thus keeping us alive. God never purposed that human blood should be shed wantonly. After Cain committed the first murder, Jehovah declared that Abel’s blood was crying out to be avenged. Later, one of Cain’s descendants, Lamech, became a killer and stated poetically that should he himself be killed, this bloodguilt should be avenged. In time, a corrupt world became filled with violence. Jehovah sent the deluge to destroy that first world of mankind. Only the family of peaceful Noah, whose name means “Rest,” survived.​—Genesis 4:8-12, 23, 24; 6:13; 7:1.

6. What is God’s law with regard to blood, and on whom is this binding?

⁶ Jehovah then informed Noah of His express will concerning blood. He climaxed this by saying: “Anyone shedding man’s blood, by man will his own blood be shed, for in God’s image he made man.” (Genesis 9:3-6) All mankind today are descendants of Noah; hence, this divine law that emphasizes respect for life is binding on all humans who desire God’s approval. The sixth of the Ten Commandments also declared, “You must not murder.” Bloodguilt calls for due action and recompense.​—Exodus 20:13; 21:12; Deuteronomy 21:1-9; Hebrews 10:30.

7. (a) Why was it proper for Jehovah to command Israel to go to war? (b) In what warfare are Christians engaged today?

⁷ Since the shedding of blood was so clearly forbidden, why was it that Jehovah permitted, and even commanded, the nation of Israel to engage in warfare? We have to remember that this was a sanctified warfare by means of which Jehovah, the Judge of all the earth, had demon-worshiping nations exterminated. The Canaanites, for example, were squatters in the Promised Land and followed a demonistic, immoral life-style that would endanger God’s holy people. Jehovah had the land “vomit” those depraved humans out of their territory, using theocratic warfare to have it done. (Leviticus 18:1-30; Deuteronomy 7:1-6, 24) This justifies the spiritual warfare of the Christian today.​—2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:11-18.

8. What shows God’s disapproval of the shedding of innocent blood?

⁸ However, Jehovah did not approve of indiscriminate bloodshed. Thus, it is written concerning a king of Judah: “There was also innocent blood that Manasseh shed in very great quantity, until he had filled Jerusalem from end to end.” Though Manasseh later repented and humbled himself before Jehovah, that bloodguilt remained on him and his dynasty. Manasseh’s God-fearing grandson, King Josiah, acted positively to cleanse the land and restore true worship. But he could not remove that bloodguilt. During the reign of Josiah’s son Jehoiakim, Jehovah moved to bring Nebuchadnezzar against Judah, to execute judgment against that nation. “It was only by the order of Jehovah that it took place against Judah, to remove it from his sight for the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he had done; and also for the innocent blood that he had shed, so that he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood, and Jehovah did not consent to grant forgiveness.”​—2 Kings 21:16; 24:1-4; 2 Chronicles 33:10-13.

The Standard for Christians

9. What standard did Jesus set for Christians with regard to the shedding of blood?

⁹ We would expect that Jesus, the Founder of Christianity, would set the standard for Christians with respect to the shedding of blood. Did he? Well, shortly after he had instituted the Memorial of his death, Jesus saw to it that his disciples had two swords with them. For what purpose? To establish a vital principle, one that all Christians would need to observe. When the soldier band came to arrest Jesus in Gethsemane, impetuous Peter wielded a sword, striking off the right ear of Malchus, a slave of the Jewish high priest. Was it not a noble thing to fight thus in behalf of the Son of God? Jesus did not think so. He healed the slave’s ear and reminded Peter that His heavenly Father was able to send 12 legions of angels to Jesus’ aid. Jesus there stated the fundamental principle: “All those who take the sword will perish by the sword.”​—Matthew 26:51-53; Luke 22:36, 38, 49-51; John 18:10, 11.

10. (a) What important principle is established at John 17:14, 16, and Joh 18:36? (b) What course resulted in salvation for first-century Christians?

¹⁰ Christians of the first century would later recall Jesus’ fervent prayer to Jehovah, in which he said of his disciples: “They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.” They would remember Jesus’ explanatory answer to Pontius Pilate: “My kingdom is no part of this world. If my kingdom were part of this world, my attendants would have fought that I should not be delivered up to the Jews. But, as it is, my kingdom is not from this source.” (John 17:14, 16; 18:36) In those days, Jewish factions were fighting one another, both verbally and by shedding blood. But Jesus’ disciples did not get mixed up in those revolutionary campaigns. For some 30 years they waited in Jerusalem. Then they obeyed Jesus’ prophetic sign by “fleeing to the mountains.” Their neutral stance and their flight resulted in their salvation.​—Matthew 24:15, 16.

11, 12. (a) What decision did Cornelius and Sergius Paulus have to make when they became believers? (b) Where would they receive help in order to make the right decision? (c) What does this indicate to us today?

¹¹ Some may ask, ‘What of Cornelius, the centurion, and Sergius Paulus, the army-backed proconsul in Cyprus? Were not these men associated with the military?’ Yes, at the time they accepted the Christian message. The Scriptures, though, do not tell us what Cornelius and others did after their conversion. No doubt Sergius Paulus, who was an intelligent man and “astounded at the teaching of Jehovah,” would soon scrutinize his secular position in the light of his newfound faith and make a proper decision. Cornelius would have done likewise. (Acts 10:1, 2, 44-48; 13:7, 12) There is no record that the disciples told them what action they must take. They could see that from their own study of God’s Word.​—Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:3.

¹² Similarly, Christians today should not instruct others personally as to what stand they must take on issues related to Christian neutrality. Each one must make his own conscientious decisions in line with his understanding of Bible principles.​—Galatians 6:4, 5.

In Modern Times

13. How did the Bible Students fare in trying to avoid bloodguilt during World War I?

¹³ It was in 1914 that total warfare first invaded the world scene. The entire resources of nations, including their manpower, were committed to warfare. Many of the Bible Students, as Jehovah’s Witnesses were called at that time, made commendable efforts to avoid bloodguilt. They were bitterly persecuted, just as Jesus said they would be.​—John 15:17-20.

14, 15. (a) How did Jehovah provide guidance during World War II? (b) What clear-cut stand did Jehovah’s Witnesses then take? (c) How did this contrast with what worldly religionists were doing?

¹⁴ When global conflict again erupted in 1939, Jehovah provided clear guidance for his servants. Within two months of the declaration of war, this guidance came in the form of Bible study material entitled “Neutrality” in the November 1, 1939, issue of The Watchtower. It concluded with the sentence: “All who are on the Lord’s side will be neutral as to warring nations, and will be entirely and wholly for the great THEOCRAT and his King.”

¹⁵ What resulted? As a worldwide brotherhood, Jehovah’s Witnesses consistently refrained from shedding the blood of innocent people, including their brothers in other lands. While Catholics, Protestants, Buddhists, and others were slaughtering one another, Jesus’ true disciples were obeying his new commandment: “Just as I have loved you, . . . you also love one another.”​—John 13:34.

16. (a) How did Jehovah’s Witnesses show themselves to be upright citizens? (b) How did the Witnesses persist in paying back God’s things to God, and at times with what result?

¹⁶ These Christians continued to pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar. They obeyed the laws of the land as upright citizens. (Matthew 22:17-21; Romans 13:1-7) But more importantly, they paid back to God the things that belonged to him, including their dedicated lives and Christian worship. Hence, when Caesar demanded to have God’s things, they acted in harmony with the principles stated at Acts 4:19 and Ac 5:29. Whether the issue was shedding blood, noncombatant military work, alternative service, or saluting an image such as a national flag, faithful Christians took the position that there was no middle ground. In some cases they were executed because of this stand.​—Matthew 24:9; Revelation 2:10.

They Did Not Compromise

17. (a) According to one book, how were Jehovah’s Witnesses treated by the Nazis? (b) In meeting the challenge, how did Jehovah’s Witnesses contrast with others?

¹⁷ A recent book entitled Of Gods and Men stated that during Hitler’s Third Reich, Jehovah’s Witnesses were the religious group that suffered “the most extreme opposition.” Jehovah’s Witnesses did not compromise. Those of other religions in Germany followed their military chaplains, thus rendering religious service to the German state and receiving the “mark” of the political wild beast “in their right hand or upon their forehead.” (Revelation 13:16) These gave the active right hand of support to the German political machine and made their stand clearly seen by heiling Hitler and saluting the swastika flag.

18. (a) What record shows whether Jehovah’s Witnesses were “political ‘neutrals’”? (b) How should this historical account affect us individually today?

¹⁸ What position did true Christians there take? The above-mentioned study states: “Only the Jehovah’s Witnesses resisted the regime. They fought tooth and nail and as a result one-half of their number was imprisoned and one-quarter executed. . . . They, in contrast to [other religions], are nonworldly in the sense that they do not seek the approbation or the rewards of the material world and do not consider themselves to be members of it. They are political ‘neutrals’ since they belong already to another world​—God’s. . . . They do not seek or offer compromises. . . . To serve in the army, to vote, or to give the Hitler salute would have meant a recognition of the claims of this world as dominant over the claims of God.” The pursuit of peace and nonviolence by Jehovah’s Witnesses was even recognized in the concentration camps. How so? In that “only Witnesses were allowed to shave the S.S. guards using cut-throat razors, since only they could be trusted not to kill.”

19. How have Jehovah’s Witnesses followed Jesus’ courageous example, and with what result?

¹⁹ During the second world war, Jehovah’s Witnesses became an outstanding example of Christian neutrality. Consistently, around the earth they courageously followed Jesus’ example in being “no part of the world”; they conquered this bloodguilty world even as Christ had done.​—John 17:16; 16:33; 1 John 5:4.

Finding Refuge From Bloodguilt

20. (a) Why is it urgent to flee from false religion? (b) Where only may true refuge be found today?

²⁰ Religious organizations have reddened the pages of history by spilling innocent blood in crusades, “holy” wars, and inquisitions. They have made concordats with bloodthirsty dictators. They consented when those dictators threw Jehovah’s Witnesses into prisons and concentration camps, where many of them died. They gave willing support to führers (leaders) who executed Witnesses by shooting and beheading. These religious systems cannot escape Jehovah’s righteous judgment. It will not delay. Nor should any lover of righteousness delay in getting out of false religion​—bloodstained “Babylon the Great”—​and seeking refuge in God’s organization.​—Revelation 18:2, 4, 21, 24.

21. What is foreshadowed by God’s arrangement of the cities of refuge?

²¹ Many of us, before we studied God’s Word, may have shed human blood or been members of bloodguilty religious or political organizations. In this we may be compared to the unintentional manslayer in Israel. He could flee to one of six specified cities where he could find refuge and, finally, a release at the death of Israel’s high priest. Today, that means accepting and remaining under the benefits of the active service of God’s High Priest, Jesus Christ. By remaining there in association with God’s anointed people, we may survive when the modern-day “avenger of blood,” Christ Jesus, executes God’s judgment on the bloodguilty. The “great crowd” who now flee to God’s organization must stay in that refuge until Christ, in his capacity as High Priest, ‘dies’ with respect to completing his work of redemption.​—Numbers 35:6-8, 15, 22-25; 1 Corinthians 15:22-26; Revelation 7:9, 14.

22. With respect to Isaiah 2:4, how do the nations of the UN differ from God’s holy nation?

²² On the UN plaza wall in New York, U.S.A., you may read the following words based on Isaiah 2:4 (King James Version): “They shall beat their swords into plowshares. And their spears into pruning hooks: Nation shall not lift up sword against nation. Neither shall they learn war any more.” But who acts in harmony with those words today? Not one of the members of the so-called United Nations. It is only the peace-pursuing global “nation” of three million and more witnesses of Jehovah that has clearly demonstrated how Christian neutrality can be maintained in a bloodstained world.

Questions in Review

◻ How may we pursue peace with God?

◻ How does Jehovah view wanton bloodshed?

◻ What is meant by Christian neutrality?

◻ What fine examples of integrity do we have?

◻ How may we find refuge for salvation?

[Box on page 21]

A Record of Faith, Courage, and Integrity

The book New Religious Movements: A Perspective for Understanding Society makes these further comments on the integrity of Jehovah’s Witnesses in facing up to Nazi persecution:

“In their refusal to comply, the Jehovah’s Witnesses offered a challenge to the totalitarian concept of the new society, and this challenge, as well as the persistence of its survival, demonstrably disturbed the architects of the new order. The more the Witnesses were persecuted, the more they presented a real ideological challenge. The time-honoured methods of persecution, torture, imprisonment and ridicule were not resulting in the conversion of any Witnesses to the Nazi position and were in fact back-firing against their instigators. The Nazis panicked in the face of this unpredictable response.”

“Between these two rival claimants on loyalty, the fight was bitter, even more so, since the physically stronger Nazis were in many ways less sure, less rooted in the firmness of their own conviction, less certain of the survival of their 1,000 year Reich. Witnesses did not doubt their own roots, for their faith had been evident since the time of Abel. Whilst the Nazis had to suppress opposition and convince their supporters, often borrowing language and imagery from sectarian Christianity, Witnesses were sure of the total, unbending loyalty of their members, even to death.”

It will be a happy day indeed when this conquest by Christian loyalty has been completed. (Romans 8:35-39) Then, under the Kingdom rule of the “Prince of Peace,” the glorified Jesus Christ, “to the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end.”​—Isaiah 9:6, 7.

[Box on page 22]

Youthful Integrity Keepers

The following is quoted from a diary recently published by an observer in a European country. It indicates how youthful Witnesses have faced up courageously to the issue of being “no part of the world.”​—John 17:14.

‘1945, March 12: There were martial law proceedings. Two young Jehovists are the accused. The charge: refusal of military service (according to the spirit of their religion). The younger one, who is not yet 20 years old, was sentenced to 15 years in a penitentiary. The older one, however, was sentenced to death, and he was immediately brought to his hometown to be executed there publicly as a deterring example. He is the 14th victim here. May he rest in peace. This case has deeply affected me. Against the Jehovists you cannot act in such a way. Of this boy, they did not make a warning example but a martyr. He was a healthy boy. I am sad for him.

‘In the afternoon, we have learned the details of the execution of this young man, which took place in front of quite a number of people in the marketplace. One of the soldiers who stood in the cordon shot himself out of shame prior to the execution. This was because a colonel wanted to have him assist the hangman. But he was not willing to do so. He rather made an end to his own life. The young man himself died with courage. He did not say a word.’

In the resurrection, how happy such youths will be that they chose to experience the sting of death rather than forfeit a place in Jehovah’s new system of things!​—Compare Hosea 13:14.

Godly Respect for Blood

“I call you to witness this very day that I am clean from the blood of all men.”​—ACTS 20:26.

1. How do Paul’s words at Acts 20:26 reflect Jehovah’s view of blood?

THOSE words of the apostle Paul as a Christian reflect his wholesome respect for blood, the fluid of life. Further on in this discussion, we will examine what Paul meant by that statement. But first let us consider what the Creator of animal and human souls says about blood. We have already observed that Jehovah God regards blood, as representing life, to be sacred. Those who wantonly or carelessly shed blood, and in particular human blood, become bloodguilty before God. However, are there not ways that blood may be used for benefiting mankind?

2. (a) Why was it a capital offense for those in Israel to eat blood? (b) How were the Israelites benefited by keeping that law?

² God’s law to Israel regarding blood stated emphatically: “You must not eat the blood of any sort of flesh, because the soul [life, King James Version; American Standard Version] of every sort of flesh is its blood. Anyone eating it will be cut off.” It was a capital offense for Israelites or alien residents among them to partake of blood, even for needed nourishment. Before they ate the flesh, they must pour the blood out and cover it with dust, thus figuratively returning the life to God. (Leviticus 17:13, 14) That was a divine law. By keeping it, those Israelites maintained a healthy spiritual relationship with Jehovah, the Source of life. And they also enjoyed secondary benefits, in the preservation of physical health.

The Blood of the Christ

3. (a) Why is Jesus’ blood outstandingly “precious”? (b) How do the Hebrew Scriptures point forward to Jesus’ sacrifice?

³ However, Jehovah had in mind one outstanding use of blood. This was in ransoming mankind from sin and death by means of the “precious blood” of Christ Jesus. Even before “the founding of the world” (through sinful Adam and Eve’s bringing forth redeemable offspring), Jehovah foreknew how he would deliver mankind. (1 Peter 1:18-20; Romans 6:22, 23) It is “the blood of Jesus his Son [that] cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) So important is this use of blood that God caused to be recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures many types and shadows pointing forward to Jesus’ perfect sacrifice.​—Hebrews 8:1, 4, 5; Romans 15:4.

4. What foregleams were provided in the drama recorded at Genesis chapter 22?

⁴ Centuries before giving the Law to Israel, Jehovah commanded Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah. Thus God illustrated how he would sacrifice his only-begotten Son, Jesus. Isaac’s willing submission in this dramatic episode pictured Jesus’ obedience to his Father’s will in pouring out his lifeblood in sacrifice.​—Genesis 22:1-3, 9-14; Hebrews 11:17-19; Philippians 2:8.

5. How were the sacrifices of the Mosaic Law deep with spiritual meaning?

⁵ The Mosaic Law also provided “a shadow of the good things to come,” pointing forward to Jesus’ sacrifice in behalf of mankind. The Law allowed for only one use of blood​—in animal sacrifices to Jehovah. Those sacrifices were no mere ritual. They were deep with spiritual meaning. In minute detail, they foreshadowed Jesus’ sacrifice and all that would be accomplished through it.​—Hebrews 10:1; Colossians 2:16, 17.

6. The Atonement Day sacrifices foreshadow redemption for what two groups? In what way?

⁶ For example, Aaron’s handling of the Atonement Day sacrifices pictured how the great High Priest, Jesus, uses the merit of his own precious lifeblood in providing salvation, first for his priestly “house” of 144,000 anointed Christians so that they may have righteousness imputed to them and gain an inheritance as kings and priests with him in the heavens. Next, the sacrifice on behalf of “the people” pictured Jesus’ ransoming all those of mankind who will inherit everlasting life here on earth. Even now, “a great crowd” of these are accounted righteous for survival out of the impending great tribulation. This is because “they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb,” and show their faith by rendering God sacred service.​—Leviticus 16:6, 15, 18-22; Hebrews 9:11, 12; Revelation 14:1, 4; 7:4, 9, 14, 15.

7. Why may we rejoice in the fulfillment of those ancient types?

⁷ ‘The life is in the blood.’ Jesus’ blood was perfect, so that his sacrifice results in bestowing perfect life on all those exercising faith. How we can rejoice that those ancient types have been fulfilled in Jesus’ loving sacrifice!​—Leviticus 17:14; Acts 20:28.

Blood​—A Moral Issue

8, 9. (a) What are some of the marvelous functions of blood? (b) Like David, how may we express godly respect for the way we are made?

⁸ Astounding wisdom is to be seen in the design of blood. Evolutionists, still at a loss to explain the origin of life, would try to tell us that our lifeblood evolved somehow. How incredible!

⁹ Our complex blood performs marvelous functions indeed. It conveys life-sustaining oxygen and nutrients to all parts of our body. It removes wastes. It carries white corpuscles to fight disease and platelets that repair minor and major injuries. It helps to regulate body temperature. Our blood is distinct to each one of us; geneticists in England are even talking of using “DNA fingerprints” produced from blood samples for identifying criminals. Blood is an organ among many body parts that caused King David to exclaim: “O Jehovah, you have searched through me, and you know me. I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully made”!​—Psalm 139:1, 14.

10. (a) Who should determine how blood may be used? (b) What clear direction did God give to Noah and to Israel? (c) What example shows that blood is sacred even when an emergency arises?

¹⁰ Should not the righteous Fashioner of mankind, the Designer of our blood, be the One to determine how that stream of life may properly be used? (Job 36:3) That he has done in no uncertain way. He declared to our forefather Noah: “Only flesh with its soul​—its blood—​you must not eat.” (Genesis 9:4) And in repeating his Law to Israel, he clearly stated: “Simply be firmly resolved not to eat the blood, because the blood is the soul and you must not eat the soul with the flesh. You must not eat it. You should pour it out upon the ground as water.” (Deuteronomy 12:23, 24) No doubt David had this commandment in mind when three of his warriors risked their lives in order to bring him drinking water from the cistern in Bethlehem. He “poured it out to Jehovah” as representing their lifeblood. (2 Samuel 23:15-17) Not even in an emergency may the sacredness of blood be ignored.​—See also 1 Samuel 14:31-34.

In the Christian Congregation

11, 12. (a) What spirit-directed body ruled on doctrinal questions in the first century? (b) On what religious plane did this body place the partaking of blood? (c) Why are blood transfusions to be equated with eating blood through the mouth?

¹¹ Can you visualize a large room in first-century Jerusalem? Gathered there are Jesus’ apostles and other elders of the Christian congregation. What is their topic of discussion? Paul and Barnabas have come up from Antioch to lay before them a problem that has arisen there regarding circumcision. That council decides that newly converted Christians do not need to undergo fleshly circumcision.​—Acts 15:1, 2, 6, 13, 14, 19, 20.

¹² In stating this decision, the governing body back there summarized requirements that still rest on Christians. They said: “The holy spirit and we ourselves have favored adding no further burden to you, except these necessary things, to keep abstaining from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled [so as to retain the blood] and from fornication. If you carefully keep yourselves from these things, you will prosper. Good health to you!” (Acts 15:28, 29) So idolatry, the partaking of blood, and fornication are placed on the same religious plane. Christians must abstain from all of these to maintain good spiritual health and share in the fulfillment of God’s promises. With regard to blood, it matters not whether this is eaten through the mouth or transfused through the veins. The purpose is the same​—to sustain and nourish the body. As the governing body clearly indicated, failure to abstain from blood is a violation of the law of God.

13. (a) Abstaining from blood has resulted in what added protection for Jehovah’s Witnesses? (b) How have other divine laws served to protect God’s people?

¹³ The current proliferation of AIDS, hepatitis, and other diseases through blood transfusions indicates that good physical health is also often involved in the keeping of God’s laws. In Bible times, God gave Israel specific laws on diet, quarantine, hygiene, and sanitation that were well suited to their wilderness sojourn. (Leviticus 11:2-8; 13:2-5; Deuteronomy 23:10-13) By observing those regulations, Israel not only maintained a close spiritual relationship with their God but were also safeguarded physically from diseases that plagued their neighbors. It has only been during the past century that medical men have begun to appreciate the practical wisdom behind some of those laws. Many are coming to realize, too, that God’s law on blood makes sense.

14. When Israel obeyed, what healing and blessings were available to them?

¹⁴ When Israel obeyed, God fulfilled toward them the promise: “If you will strictly listen to the voice of Jehovah your God and will do what is right in his eyes and will indeed give ear to his commandments and keep all his regulations, I shall put none of the maladies upon you that I put upon the Egyptians; because I am Jehovah who is healing you.” More importantly, obedience kept Israel in line for future Kingdom blessings.​—Exodus 15:26; 19:5, 6.

15. What recent example illustrates how we may be blessed in obeying God’s regulations?

¹⁵ Jehovah’s Witnesses appreciate the many benefits provided by modern medicine. For example, when a Kingdom Hall near Sydney, Australia, was destroyed by a terrorist bomb last year and more than 50 injured Witnesses were rushed to a nearby hospital, these were grateful that the doctors had on hand a plentiful supply of nonblood fluids to transfuse. All the injured survived. They could be thankful for these transfusions that were in harmony with Jehovah’s regulations. As a further plus, none of them were in danger of being infected by diseases that can be transmitted by blood.

“Clean From the Blood of All Men”

16. Like Paul, what attitude should we show toward sacred service?

¹⁶ However, let us turn again to the first century. Some seven years have passed since Paul and Barnabas heard James announce the prohibition on idolatry, blood, and fornication. During that time Paul has made two missionary trips through Asia Minor and on into Eastern Europe. Now, on his return through Miletus, he is able to talk with the Ephesian elders, who come down to meet him there. He reminds them that he has not spared himself among them in “slaving for the Lord with the greatest lowliness of mind and tears and trials.” Are we today as self-sacrificing in giving of our all in Jehovah’s service? We should be.​—Acts 20:17-19.

17. Like Paul, how should we perform our service?

¹⁷ How had Paul performed that service? He witnessed wherever he found people, principally at their homes, and without regard to their religious background. He had not held back from instructing those elders, and no doubt they had accompanied him as he taught “publicly and from house to house.” They had not been the only ones to benefit from Paul’s zealous ministry, for he had ‘thoroughly borne witness both to Jews and to Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus.’ Note that word “thoroughly.” Are we today thorough in seeing that all kinds of people, all ethnic groups, receive the witness?​—Acts 20:20, 21; Revelation 14:6, 7.

18. (a) Like Paul, how should we involve our soul in God’s service? (b) Like Paul, how should we proceed in the face of increasing pressures?

¹⁸ The word “thorough” appears also in Paul’s next statement: “I do not make my soul of any account as dear to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received of the Lord Jesus, to bear thorough witness to the good news of the undeserved kindness of God.” (Acts 20:24) There would be no value to his soul, or life, if he did not thus fulfill his ministry. Do we feel that way about our ministry? As these last days run toward completion, and as stresses, persecutions, sicknesses, or advancing years bear in on us, do we still display a spirit like Paul’s in searching thoroughly for “deserving” households?​—Matthew 10:12, 13; 2 Timothy 2:3, 4; 4:5, 7.

19. Why could Paul say, “I am clean from the blood of all men”?

¹⁹ Paul did not expect to see those Ephesian elders again. However, with full confidence he could say to them: “I call you to witness this very day that I am clean from the blood of all men.” How so? Paul had not shed blood in warfare. He had not eaten blood. But he had been most interested in the lives of others, as represented by their blood. He did not want to see them lose their lives in God’s Day of Judgment because of his failure to give a thorough witness. He had not held back from telling those elders and others “all the counsel of God.”​—Acts 20:26, 27.

20. (a) In line with Jehovah’s repeated warning to Ezekiel, what responsibility should we discharge today? (b) What will result to ourselves and those who listen to us?

²⁰ As the “great tribulation” draws closer, the need to declare all the counsel of God becomes ever more urgent. The situation is similar to that some 2,600 years ago when Jerusalem’s destruction was impending. The word of Jehovah came to his prophet Ezekiel, saying: “Son of man, a watchman is what I have made you to the house of Israel, and you must hear from my mouth speech and you must warn them from me. When I say to someone wicked, ‘You will positively die,’ and you do not actually warn him and speak in order to warn the wicked one from his wicked way to preserve him alive, he being wicked, in his error he will die, but his blood I shall ask back from your own hand.” (Ezekiel 3:17-21; 33:7-9) Jehovah’s anointed servants and the “great crowd” of their companions bear a similar responsibility today. Our witness should be thorough. Thus, during the day of God’s vengeance, we may be saved along with those who listen to us.​—Isaiah 26:20, 21; 1 Timothy 4:16; Revelation 7:9, 14, 15.

21. In what ways may we show godly respect for blood, and with what outcome?

²¹ In the matters of Christian neutrality, of abstaining from blood, of giving a thorough witness, and of exercising faith in Jesus’ precious sacrifice, let each one of us be determined to obey all of God’s counsel. Thus we may share in the joyous fulfillment of Psalm 33:10-12: “Jehovah himself has broken up the counsel of the nations; he has thwarted the thoughts of the peoples. To time indefinite the very counsel of Jehovah will stand . . . Happy is the nation whose God is Jehovah.”

How would you answer?

◻ What one use of blood brings lasting blessings?

◻ How do we benefit by abstaining from blood?

◻ How may we keep “clean from the blood of all men”?

◻ What example of thoroughness should we follow?

[Blurb on page 26]

The Wall Street Journal of March 20, 1986, carried an article under the title: “Blood Banks Aren’t Safe From AIDS.” The opening paragraph reads: “The U.S. blood supply is less safe than blood-banking organizations would have us believe. Transfusions are potentially a prime pathway for spreading Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome beyond the current high-risk groups to the general population. The AIDS antibody test used to screen blood donations cannot guarantee that all tainted units will be detected. Worse still, blood bankers are reluctant to take measures that would improve the safety of transfusions.”

Must You Be in the Limelight?

THE TV screen comes to life as the cameras focus on the famous performer. Flashing a professional smile, he begins to play. We listen with pleasure to the music. The camera moves in close, allowing us to watch his facial expression and skillful fingers as he draws music from his instrument.

Yes, it is the performer who enjoys the limelight. But when the show is over, notice the long list of credits on the screen​—orchestra, conductor, sound technicians, cameramen, directors, producers, makeup artists, and many, many others. All are necessary to make the performance a success. All are supportive.

A similar situation exists in the Christian congregation. Some individuals are used quite prominently, but others play rather inconspicuous roles as rank-and-file publishers of the Kingdom message. Should these ones feel, however, that they are somehow less important because they are not in the limelight? Should they be unduly disturbed if they do not attain prominence?

“All Will Have a Share”

An account involving King David is quite revealing. The Bible shows that once he led a band of 400 men on a dramatic rescue mission. They set out to recover their families and possessions from a marauder band. Two hundred, though, were left behind to guard the baggage. When the rescue party returned victorious with the women, children, and goods, plus much booty, a problem arose: Who would share in the spoils of battle? Would only those who actually did the fighting be counted worthy of sharing in the gains? David gave an answer that came to be viewed as a legal precedent, “a judicial decision for Israel.” He said: “For as the share of the one that went down into the battle even so will the share of the one that sat by the baggage be. All will have a share together.” (1 Samuel 30:24, 25) It was Jehovah who directed David to make this judicial decision. And it reflected Jehovah’s deep appreciation for those who serve in supportive roles.

But does this principle hold true in the Christian congregation? The apostle Paul answers with an illustration. Comparing the congregation to the human body, he says: “The eye cannot say to the hand: ‘I have no need of you’; or, again, the head cannot say to the feet: ‘I have no need of you.’” Yes, in the human body every part​—even the small toe—​has an important function. God shows the same wisdom in organizing his congregation. “God has set the respective ones in the congregation,” assigning different ones various responsibilities.​—1 Corinthians 12:21, 28.

In the first century, some Christians therefore enjoyed a certain amount of prominence. Peter, for example, was very much in the limelight. He was the spokesman for the apostles on the historic day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:14) He had the privilege of helping the first Gentile converts to become Christians. (Acts 10:44-48) In fact, two Bible books bear his name! Yet some of the other apostles are hardly mentioned. Matthew, Nathanael (Bartholomew), Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James), Simon the zealous one, and James, son of Alphaeus (called James the Less), receive only brief mention. Nevertheless, they faithfully supported their Lord in his preaching-and-teaching campaign.

Modest, Whole-Souled Service

A similar situation exists today. In the Christian congregation, Jehovah still ‘sets the members just as he pleases.’ This results in some being more in the limelight than others. But what should be our attitude toward our privileges of service, whatever they are? Colossians 3:23, 24 puts it this way: “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.”

Many Witnesses today derive real joy from serving in modest, supportive roles. Consider, for example, Edmundsen, a Witness serving in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. He was baptized in 1946 and entered full-time service in 1950. He has never really been in the limelight. However, he has had the joy of seeing 15 of his children and grandchildren become dedicated, baptized Witnesses, and 27 others of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren attending congregation meetings! And today, although handicapped by poor hearing and eyesight, he faithfully preaches as an auxiliary pioneer. Why, at age 84 he still serves as an elder in the congregation and gives public talks! Nevertheless, Edmundsen’s service has, for the most part, been in the background. But like many thousands of faithful servants of God, he has rendered valuable, meaningful service to Jehovah.

Yes, it takes humility to serve in the background. But this also allows us time to develop our personalities and skills before heavy responsibilities are thrust upon us. King Josiah became king of Judah at the age of eight. (2 Kings 22:1) But how ready could he have been for that role? Moses, on the other hand, was subjected to 40 years in obscurity as a shepherd in Midian before becoming a deliverer. During that period of time, he developed qualities such as meekness. (Numbers 12:3) He learned to wait upon Jehovah. And when Jehovah finally called him to lead Israel for the next 40 years, he was ready for this responsibility!

So a person who feels that his abilities are not being used to the full in the congregation need not be downhearted. Perhaps Jehovah feels that more patience or humility must be developed before such a person is granted further privileges. Remember, too, that the vast majority of Jehovah’s servants serve in the background. The Watchtower has been a prominent part of the study program of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over a century. Yet its writers are anonymous. Think, too, of the many thousands who serve in Bethel homes or as pioneers and missionaries. They are hardly in the limelight. Yet they enjoy busy, rewarding lives and experience the deep contentment that comes from giving of themselves in helping others.​—Acts 20:35.

The Outcome for Those Who Humbly Serve

Of the original 12 apostles, only one proved to be a failure​—the traitor Judas Iscariot. The others enjoyed a glorious reward. At Revelation 21:10, 14, the Bible describes the “holy city” as being built on 12 foundation stones. On each one, the name of an apostle of the Lamb is written. Interestingly, two of these faithful apostles were named Simon. The one named Simon Peter was very much in the limelight; the other, called Simon the zealous one, was not. (Acts 1:13) In fact, very little is said about this Simon. But both Simons received the same reward​—the privilege of being foundation members of the heavenly government under the King Jesus Christ!

Of course, not all resurrected anointed ones will prominently serve as “foundation stones.” Jehovah will use the personnel of his government for whatever capacity he deems them to be best suited. Those of us with hopes of living forever in Paradise on earth can likewise be sure that under that arrangement our King will use us in the best possible way. With delightful surroundings, loyal companions, a variety of pleasurable work, and no frustration or boredom, our personalities and skills will be developed to their fullest capacities!

So whether called to the heavenly reward or looking forward to life on a beautified earth, let us be content with our service assignment in Jehovah’s organization and work at it whole-souled. This is the course of wisdom and joy. Rather than ambitiously seeking the limelight, cultivate the humble attitude of King David, who said: “One thing I have asked from Jehovah​—it is what I shall look for, that I may dwell in the house of Jehovah all the days of my life, to behold the pleasantness of Jehovah and to look with appreciation upon his temple.”​—Psalm 27:4.

Questions From Readers

◼ Is there a distinction between “creation” and “creationism”?

Yes, there is. The word “creation,” appearing some 18 times in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, properly refers to Jehovah’s creative activity. (See, for example, Romans 1:20; 8:21; 2 Corinthians 5:17) The term “creationism” is not found in the Bible.

Webster’s Third New International Dictionary (1971) defines “creation” as “the act of creating,” and “creationism” as “a doctrine or theory of creation.” The same dictionary defines “ism” as “a distinctive doctrine, cause, system, or theory​—often used disparagingly.”

In these 1980’s, “creationism” has become a true “ism” because of its adoption by political pressure groups, such as the Moral Majority. It is no longer a neutral term, but embodies extreme fundamentalist views of the Bible, such as the view that God created the earth and everything upon it in six days of 24 hours each. There are now more than 350 books in circulation setting out such “creationism” dogma. Jehovah’s Witnesses reject the unreasonable theories of “creationism” in favor of what the Bible really teaches about “creation.”

For a more complete answer to the above question, please see the article entitled “Evolution, Creation, or Creationism​—Which Do You Believe?” on pages 12-15 of our companion magazine Awake! dated March 22, 1983.

“We Wish Everyone on Earth Could Read It!”

THAT is what a man wrote in expressing his appreciation for the book Life​—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? His letter reflects the sentiments of millions of people who have found this 256-page illustrated book invaluable in answering questions about the origin and purpose of life on earth.

Released last year at conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses in various lands, the book has been distributed in millions of copies and in many languages. It has helped people to see from the scientific and Biblical evidence that there is indeed a Creator who made us and that he has a marvelous purpose for humankind.

“Simple to Understand”

The book is written in a way that is easy to understand. As one letter noted: “I must tell you how impressed I am with your publication. Who, with rational mind, can resist your impeccable logic? You have managed to make this very deep and profound subject beautifully simple to understand​—quite a feat considering the very scholarly research that went into this book.”

Similarly, a former evolutionist with a science background said: “I am stunned by the clarity and power of this new book. I think that it’s the finest science book I’ve ever read for building appreciation for life. It’s very sophisticated scientifically, yet on a level that anyone can appreciate.”

Another stated: “The entire book is a masterpiece. The art content and printed word are fused together in such an appealing way that even those who shy away from material of this type will be impressed with the simple and concise style. The dignified and uninsulting manner with which the truth is laid bare will provide overwhelming evidence to answer unequivocally the question in the book’s title.”

Illustrations Help Reach the Heart

Referring to the colorful pictures, one person wrote: “How can we ever thank you for this most beautiful book? The illustrations are beautiful gifts of art.”

But the several hundred illustrations, including photographs, are more than beautiful art. They teach, reinforcing the points in the text. As a family wrote: “The illustrations and simplicity of the book have been a great aid for those of us who find the scientific field difficult to understand.” Another letter commented: “The illustrations and margin quotes are extremely helpful in getting the point and in remembering.”

Emotions were especially affected by chapter 19, “An Earthly Paradise Soon to Come.” Of the illustrations in that chapter, an Australian family wrote: “They make a deep impact on people. We tried to picture ourselves there in Paradise as a family. Surely Paradise and serving Jehovah eternally are worth any effort. The illustrations brought tears to our eyes.”

Another wrote: “It is the most beautiful publication I have yet seen published by Jehovah’s Witnesses. By the time I got to page 243 and saw the picture of the little girl and the tigers, it drew tears.” Still another said: “I cried when I looked through it. I cried in happiness.” And yet another, from Canada, related: “My heartstrings are tugged as never before and my eyes fill with tears of joy.”

‘A Treasure to Share’

That is how a 15-year-old high school student from Ohio, U.S.A., feels about the publication Life​—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? She writes:

“If good things take time, it must have taken forever to compile this beautifully illustrated, easy-to-understand book. It’s absolutely captivating! I study a chapter a day and find myself wishing I had more time to devote to my personal study of this wonderful aid.

“I have already made a list of friends and teachers who would enjoy this publication. When school starts next month, I will have the privilege of sharing my treasure with these ones.”

Perhaps you feel about the new Creation book much the way this student does. Do you know someone with whom you would like to share this treasure? Why not send that person a gift copy? You can do so by simply filling in and mailing the coupon below, enclosing just $2.50 with the coupon.

Please send, postpaid, a gift copy of the 256-page book Life​—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? as well as a letter explaining that it is a gift from ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ (your name). I enclose $2.50 (U.S.).